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OLMSTERD FALLS, Ohio — Every day at home in Cleveland’s TV viewing area, the person on the other end of the phone might start with: “Did you watch this morning? I can’t believe every one of them found Got that color! Can’t wait to see what they’ll be wearing tomorrow.”
For several years, the local morning TV news show has asked its anchors to wear a similar color every day. Based on the show’s consistently high ratings, the synchronized hues certainly boosted its popularity. It seems probable that a significant portion of the audience turns on the station primarily to watch the costumes rather than absorb the news content.
so what?
I understand how this tradition drives viewers to tune in. But I can’t help but see the gimmick, a ruse that doesn’t meet the journalistic standards established by the well-regarded TV news network. In this case, this tactic can be distracting and undermine the actual spread (and importance) of the news being reported.
Frankly, I therefore find it difficult to take radio newscasts seriously.
To be fair, other stations add all sorts of annoyances to their newscasts to lure viewers. Here are just a few: overly dramatic musical themes in beginnings and news coverage; the predictable and often hyperbolic appearance of “breaking news” on our screens; and the hiring of highly engaging reporters, probably largely for the purpose of for this reason. (Fortunately, in this market at least, good looks and good journalism aren’t opposites — mostly.)
Earlier, I mentioned the “respected TV news network”.The TV network that comes to my mind the most is BBC World NewsAnyone following the BBC’s recent events of Queen Elizabeth’s death and subsequent funeral and funeral services will attest to its excellent coverage from start to finish. The anchors and reporters, along with the film crew, produced a fascinating, profound and breathtaking showcase of journalistic integrity and expertise. Teleprompters and background music rarely play a role in the production. Clear and eloquent reportage is the norm. It doesn’t matter what the people who provide commentary and analysis are wearing, because the content of their words resonates so strongly.
It would be absurd to suggest that our local Cleveland TV news broadcast could compete on the same level as BBC World News, for reasons I need not list; on the other hand, to suggest that our local stations apply some of the BBC’s news features would not be.
I’ve been watching BBC World News for a while now and enjoy how the news is front and center. Broadcasters pay little attention to themselves while speaking calmly and objectively. Unlike here, anchors and reporters rarely chat with each other. There is humor and gentle laughter when appropriate, no wild laughter. Personal plays belong to the stage, not the broadcast studio. Thankfully, our calculated insertion of the political agenda associated with several of our national news broadcasts is not shown.
Mark Hodermarsky is an author and retired high school teacher.
To some, this effect may seem out of place and boring. For me, it’s refreshing. It’s refreshing that local (and national) newscasts don’t have to succumb to the trivial elements and tired structures that currently exist. Of course, it’s hard to root out audience expectations and provide a different perspective on how news is spread. Habits are not easily broken. But a format that mimics BBC World News, even on a local level, might inspire potential viewers to take a look. Replicating these BBC broadcast qualities might just remove the general disdain and indifference to TV news, while providing a more vivid understanding of news events.
I challenge anyone without access to BBC World News to make the effort. You won’t be disappointed. Delivering news in a clear and responsible manner has never been more urgent. Nor does it need to build a more informed and educated audience.
Mark Hodermarsky is a retired St. Ignatius High School teacher who has written eight books. The forthcoming ninth issue, “Baseball in Cleveland 1865-1900: A Precious Legacy,” will be published by Cleveland Landmark Press.
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