There are lots of opinions on the “media” these days, but last week should emphasize why it is so important to us all.
Radio, TV and, yes, this newspaper did what they are supposed to do, and that is inform people. My family had no power in our house beginning after the first wave of storms hit Wednesday morning, and we spent the rest of the day huddled around a transistor radio. The local Clear Channel stations went live with the weather feed from WRCB. Paul Barys and the crew over there performed yeoman’s duty and kept us up-to-date throughout the night.
Citadel stations did the same with WTVC I understand.
Being able to get up-to-the minute information was critical and no doubt helped save lives.
On the subject of the storms and dealing with no power, I’d be curious to hear from some of you regarding which items you were glad you had and which ones you wish you’d had or that you will tuck away for any future emergencies.
Climbing to the top of my list is a good cooler and some sort of gas cook stove. We realized quickly that most of our food supply was in the refrigerator. Some good light sources also, as batteries don’t last. I was glad to have the radio.
Kevin West has assumed the role of program director at WGOW, replacing Bill Lockhart, who stepped down from the position for personal reasons, according to an announcement on Lockhart’s Facebook page and the station website. Lockhart said the decision was initiated by him.
Lockhart will remain at the station as management adviser in news and programming. He will also continue on-air duties, filling in when needed and providing news, weather and traffic updates.
I mentioned last week that City Council had passed on first read the nightclub sprinkler ordinance. Last week’s reading was actually the second read, so it has passed.
At this past Tuesday’s council meeting, the group voted to allow Family Concessions to provide food and beverages at Memorial Auditorium and the Tivoli Theatre. This means beer and wine will be available at some shows beginning as early as June.
This is important not just because you will be able to sip a glass of Chablis at a show but because it should provide a new revenue source for the facilities. In the past, patrons could get a candy bar and a small soda at best, and the revenue from those sales was negligible.
Venues such as these two have basically four ways to make money: ticket sales, rent, parking and concessions. Neither the Tivoli or the auditorium has parking lots attached and concessions have been non-existent, so that has meant only rent and ticket sales. Rent is relatively fixed, so that has meant that profit or loss has been totally dependent on ticket sales, and it doesn’t take an accountant to figure out that even a sold-out show doesn’t necessarily mean anybody has made any real money.
It is hoped, and there are no guarantees, that increased concession sales can make booking a show there a little less risky and even profitable.