Buckley Blog: Longer than Mark's AND Sam's
5:29 AM February 29, 2008
What can I tell you? We're boys. We can't do anything without making it a competition. In fact recently, I was finding it difficult to get my sons (Ben, 11, Sebastian, 7) to tell me what was happening at school each day. A typical dinnertime conversation went something like this:
Dad: How was school today? Son #1: Good. Son #2: Great. Dad: What'd you learn? Son #1: Stuff. Son #2: Things. Dad: Anything interesting happen? Son #1: Not really. Son #2: I can't remember. Dad: Great.
I'm exaggerating a bit, but you get the idea. Knowing my boys are boys who can't resist a good competition, I decided to try something to spark a little conversation. I made our dinnertime conversations about school a competition. Each of my guys had to come up with one thing they learned in class and one personal experience that happened in their lives that day. Whoever had the most interesting stories was the winner. Suddenly, the flood gates opened up. I began hearing about what they learned that day in social studies and science and math. We began talking about what they were reading at the library and who they were singing in music. I heard about the great catches they made while playing football and the silly moments that made them laugh while they were hanging out with their buddies. Curiously, their stories were so good, the dinnertime competition inevitably ended in ties. But it worked, and while they roll their eyes now when I announce the competition, they still play along and we have a good laugh in the process.
Our blogs have become a little competitive and we're having a ball doing them. We appreciate your comments. I read every one of them.
Today, I thought I'd respond to a few of the posts and to a few of the emails you've submitted to Viewer Mail.
First, one of the critical ones. Ljr-yl thinks I'm a stiff: "you belong at CNN...you don't have a personality to be at KTLA. I like KTLA since most you keep it light and can be serious when necessary. Even the 10 pm news is more exciting than you. It seems that you are just there to collect a paycheck for your wife. Network news is a better fit for you."
First, ouch. Second, no, it's not just a paycheck. I've had a passion for news and storytelling since I got into the business at the age of 17. But I admit it, it has been a tough transition for me to go from being a straight-ahead hard news correspondent to co-anchor of the Morning News. I was trained to keep my personal thoughts to myself and I've spent a career trying to keep the focus on the story, not me. At CNN, we used to say: "The NEWS is the star." I think it still is, but I know you guys expect a little more from the anchors on this show. I'm working on it. I'm trying to be less dispassionate, more myself. But it's a work in progress. I hope you'll stay tuned to see how it turns out.
Meanwhile, thanks to those of you who are giving the "new guy" a fair shot. Charlene writes: "Apparently ljr-yl didn't see you grooving this morning to Taylor Dane. Although I have a special allegiance to Carlos (because he gave me 10 on my baking contest)and I cried when he left and vowed to not watch KTLA again...I couldn't follow through...I said all of that to say just forget about what ljr-yl said, you are welcomed." Thanks Charlene and to the many others who've also taken time to write in to welcome me to the team. It's very much appreciated.
While I don't read all of the emails that come in to Viewer Mail (management only passes along what it wants us to read), I've appreciated the notes I have read. Some have been kind, some not so kind, and some are funny/scary.
Like this one from Samantha in Burbank: "I want Frank Buckley to do the entire show in nothing but a tie?" That one made us laugh. You were trying to make us laugh, right Samantha?
Wolfman from Hawthorne--thanks for your nice note. But about this part of your note: "your musical tastes frighten me! Especially after the segment on the worst love songs this morning. I would guess you also have "Sometimes When We Touch" (OMG! THE worst!) on your Ipod too!"
I need to issue a clarification. My musical tastes are varied and while yes, I confess, "Sometimes When We Touch" does bring back some fond memories, it is not in my IPOD. I'm all over the place musically and have everyone from the Eagles to the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Nas in my IPOD right now.
Your posts on my blog about the 24-hour news cycle were thoughtful and interesting. Jozielee was the first to respond and had some interesting observations. Here's part of her post: "I grew up in the days when George Putnam and Jerry Dunphy covered news 'From the desert to the sea, to all of Southern California...' They reported the news. Period. There was no exchange of ideas. When CNN sponsored the first YouTube debate I knew the meaning of real communication in a political arena. As a community, we seem to be channeling technology in a positive way. Through the use of webisodes, webinars, podcasts, telecommunicated interviews, we can call-in or email comments in real time or choose to watch later. Suddenly, we’re a community of interactivists. Talk about options!"
Roy Garcia wrote: "I think todays news focuses far too much on entertainment. I'm sick to the point of puking when all I hear for the hour is brittney this and lindsay that, its getting to the point were its no longer a news show but an entertainment program which I loathe."
Roy, I hear you and we're doing our best to balance that sort of news with the kind that actually affects our lives. I'm not a fan of it either. But what I've learned is that while some of us complain about it, others can't get enough of it. We'll keep tweaking it to try to get it right.
Meanwhile, keep your posts and emails coming. If you miss a blog, the link to our blog archive is located right beneath the calendar on this page. Check out my blog on Sebastian's basketball team. I'd love to hear your thoughts on any cool moments you've observed in sports.
See you at 7 A.M.
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When you first started I thought you were stiff as well, but I have learned with KTLA morning show/news that it takes people time to settle in. Frank, you fit like a glove. Combo of Frank/Michaela - unbeatable.
I was genuinely concerned when Carlos left but was also growing weary of his scary politics creeping in. I have been a viewer since almost the beginning and think this is the best entire team since the original.
Keep it up!
Posted by: kenny | February 29, 2008 at 07:07 AM
Frank,
Poor guy, everyone is givving you a hell of a time. I think you are doing very well. To be "Frank," Carlos was a stick in the mud and I think that you make the morning show fresh. I think the cheimistry between you and the boys is progressing nicely. All fine wines take time to age. Best wishes and God Bless Frank!
Posted by: monique | February 29, 2008 at 07:42 AM
Hi, I've been watching the morning news show for years, and I still remember when the twin towers were hit on 9/11, of course I turned on CW (KTLA back then) and I tried to find out what was going on. You guys are great, and while I was sad that Carlos left and I felt almost a sense of betrayal, I don't think they could have picked anyone better to come in his place. :)
Posted by: e_star | February 29, 2008 at 07:49 AM
Haha I just realized I made a mistake and the morning news is still KTLA :)
Posted by: e_star | February 29, 2008 at 07:53 AM
Frank, Just had to check out the blogs after hearing all the sparring this morning and you guys talking with Carlos. I, too, was upset that Carlos left "us", but not enough to switch channel. I feel that Ch 11 was a copy cat back in the day when Ch 5 created the casual, laid-back approach to the daily news.
I think that you have "loosened up" since you first appeared on the morning news. As with anything, changes happen and as each evolution that ch 5 takes as staff comes and goes, I am still a fan. I still miss Barbara Beck and Jennifer in the helicopter, but channel 5 is still the best, and the first thing I turn on in the morning while getting ready for work.
ps that first commenter on your blog was just a nasty mean person.
thanks, Karen A
Posted by: Karen A | February 29, 2008 at 07:53 AM
Frank, Just had to check out the blogs after hearing all the sparring this morning and you guys talking with Carlos. I, too, was upset that Carlos left "us", but not enough to switch channel. I feel that Ch 11 was a copy cat back in the day when Ch 5 created the casual, laid-back approach to the daily news.
I think that you have "loosened up" since you first appeared on the morning news. As with anything, changes happen and as each evolution that ch 5 takes as staff comes and goes, I am still a fan. I still miss Barbara Beck and Jennifer in the helicopter, but channel 5 is still the best, and the first thing I turn on in the morning while getting ready for work.
ps that first commenter on your blog was just a nasty mean person.
thanks, Karen A
Posted by: Karen A | February 29, 2008 at 07:55 AM
Give is Canadian born man sum credit he knows how to write a good blog And you can tell only a canadian can do go blogs PS mark Rules
Posted by: Clinton Thiel | February 29, 2008 at 07:56 AM
Awww Frank... You're doing a great job!! I've watched this show since the beginning and I love Carlos too but things change and we just all have to go with it. I love you guys so much that I pay an extra $5 per month on my TV bill...just to have channel 5. You all are worth it!! This blog thing is fun and shows the viewers an extra side to the news and the people who bring it to us.
Posted by: Penny | February 29, 2008 at 07:59 AM
Frank, et al. i love the morning news and have been a faithful watcher for years!
yes, it was sad when carlos left, but i think you're doing a great job, frank! of course, you do have a lot of good help with the rest of the team.
keep up the good work and reporting!
Posted by: Toni | February 29, 2008 at 08:01 AM
Frank - haven't read all the comments from other viewers, but I have been a huge fan of yours for years. I think it takes a while to settle into a job, particularly when it has such a definitive format as the morning news has, but you've done a terrific job. I think you've filled the anchor post quite well and I really look forward to watching you each morning. I think you ROCK! Also, I think a bit of turnover on the show was necessary and for the better. I think you guys are a great team, you appear to have good camaraderie, so I hope that's not a facade!
Posted by: Carlyn | February 29, 2008 at 08:06 AM
O.K. guys, I am your number 1 supporter and I love each and everyone of you collectively. However, you guys really need to shorten these blogs, it doesn't have to be long to be good, o.k. The other day it took me hours to read everyone's and I don't have that kind of time. Great job on your creative communication with your children, I just love that.
Posted by: Charlene | February 29, 2008 at 08:10 AM
Frank, I think you're doing a great job. Let the mean nasty comments roll off your back. I'm not in cali anymore and am so happy I can get KTLA on satellite. I watch every morning...have to know what's going on in my home state!
Keep up the good work!
Reluctant mid-westerner :(
Posted by: Rebecca | February 29, 2008 at 08:10 AM
I shudder to think what my world would be like if the men in it couldn't think creatively about their bioloBrilliant solution to encouraging our kids to talk at dinner. Thanks for starting my day with a smile. When I was a kid we had so much fun and laughed so hard at our dinner table that our dinner would often grow cold.
You are lovely.
PS. Is there any chance we will see a blog from Jessica. She is appealing on so many levels.
xo
Posted by: JIll | February 29, 2008 at 08:13 AM
I agree with most of the posts here that you where hard to take at first since we where hard core Carlos fans. But things change and we all have to deal with "Who moved my cheese?" I like what you bring and it seems the chemistry is meshing better each and everyday. Take care.
Posted by: Kevin | February 29, 2008 at 08:13 AM
OOPS. My previous blog entry was bumped by my kids. I meant to say
I shudder to think what my world would be like of the men in it couldn't think creatively about the biological need to compete.
Posted by: JIll | February 29, 2008 at 08:15 AM
Frank, what can we say about some of the posts. One thought comes to mind....You can't please all of the people all of the time! I think your great (and easy on the eyes).LOL would that be a bow tie? And your blog story of the boys comments when asked about school brought tears to my hubby and my eyes. I only wish that I was as smart as to make it a competition. But maybe I'll use that on our Grand and Great Grandchildren. We love KTLA and all on the show new and old. Thank You
Posted by: Mary T | February 29, 2008 at 08:24 AM
Hi Frank!
Welcome to our morning show! You stepped into big shoes and you're doing great! You remind me of Carlos in that you provide a good balance for the crazy Kriski and that can't be easy to do...haha.
Loved your comment about posting Commander Chucks photo (yes, we women do drool like you guys). AND, thanks Bill Smith for the info on February 29th (asking a guy out) Would you check with Commander Chuck and see if he's free for coffee? ;-)
Have a blessed weekend!
Posted by: Rita | February 29, 2008 at 08:27 AM
Frank, I love your sense of humor and your boyish charm. CW was the big winner when you joined the team! And what a great team it is. I have been a viewer from day one, and have seen all the changes, sometimes sad but thats life. Thank you for my morning giggles!
Debbie
Posted by: Debbie S. | February 29, 2008 at 08:28 AM
Frank, I have been watching the morning news for years (I miss Barbara) and am still a HUGE fan! I think you fit perfectly into the team and you are doing a great job keeping Mark grounded, and that’s a huge task. LOL Luv ya Mark ;)
As the mother of three boys, even my cat is a boy; I know first hand how competitive everything they do becomes. I enjoyed your first blog and you even gave me an idea on how to get my kids to talk during our dinner conversations. For the past 2 years our dinner talks have sounded very familiar to yours. Now if you can help with ideas on how to get my almost 5 year old to remember to lift the toilet seat and that talking about bodily functions isn’t a sport, my life will be complete.
Keep up the good work and keep blogging!
Posted by: Sondra | February 29, 2008 at 08:33 AM
Ok Frank, I don't know what those people are on! Although it sometimes seems like you may belong on places like CNN, the fact that you have blossomed into as much of a goofball as Sammy and Mark is all the proof anyone should need to realize you do indeed belong on the morning news.
And to the haters: if you don't like Frank, that's ok you're entitled to have your opinion, meaning that you should also have enough sense to realize ‘hey, look at that, I can change the channel’—VERY simple concept.
Of course it’s not exactly ideal to tell viewers to switch stations, but once they see all the other options they’ll come crawling back and realize ‘Old-man Buckley’ is the furthest from out-of-place.
And to those of us that love Frank Buckley: sit back and enjoy the fact that everyone on the morning news are hilarious and entertaining…maybe not funny enough to do stand up comedy, but definitely funny enough to start our day off with a kick and laughing about the antics.
You guys are the only reason I wake up early on the days I could be sleeping in!! You guys will always be the only morning news I ever tune in to see. :-)
Posted by: Gina | February 29, 2008 at 08:40 AM
I think you are doing fine but I can understand how tough the transiyion would be. I had 29 years working in "straight news."
Besides I support anyone from the desert since I'm on the desert!
Posted by: Doug Arnold | February 29, 2008 at 08:49 AM
Frank,
Just hang in there; you are getting more relax and not so stuffy all the time. It was hard to lose Hal and then all at once Carlos was gone and you stepped in, there was a lot of resentment. I think the problem was all viewers were just so sure Carlos would always be there. I have been watching since Barbara Beck days and KTLA Morning News is the best. I watch via satellite from Arizona, most of my family still living in the LA county area, it is nice being able to keep on top the news there. Again all of you keep up the good work. My only grip is I think Mark needs to show weather out to Needles, Ca.
Posted by: Joy Welch//Arizona | February 29, 2008 at 08:53 AM
FRANK YOU ARE GREAT........I HAVE BEEN A FAN FOREVER. BUT ONLY LATELY, SINCE I HAD SURGERY AND HAVE TO BE IN BED FOR 6 LONG WEEKS, I HAVE BEEN WATCHING THE MORNING NEWS FROM BEGIN TO END. THIS MORNING WHEN CARLOS WAS ON MY HEART WENT THUMP..........BUT YOU ARE NOW THE MAN........I LOVE YOUR MOVES AND YOU AND MICHAELA HAVE A CHEMISTRY AND YOU BRING OUT THE BEST OF THOSE BAD BOYS ESPECIALLY MARK AND KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK.....I WILL BE WATCHING FOR 4 MORE LONG WEEKS SO THANK YOU FOR KEEPING ME ENTERTAINED ...PATTY
Posted by: PATTY HERNANDEZ | February 29, 2008 at 09:08 AM
I will always miss Carlos and that crew, yes starting with Barbara Beck. The only reason I continued to watch after he left is because in comparison (to other morning shows, including the big ones) nothing else quite filled my particular niche. It took me, and you quite frankly, some time but you managed to come through as an personable, interesting, and capable replacement. Your co-anchor has a tendancy to dominate the set and I initially doubted you'd be able to overcome that, but indeed you have. Good Luck to you.
Posted by: PATRICIA | February 29, 2008 at 09:12 AM
Love you guys but during the discussion today regarding prisons I disagree to an extent. Prevention is not a factor if you live in those areas that drugs, gangs etc are a way of life. There are so many people out there that are so hardened by their surroundings that the DARE program at school is not going to change them. Church will not change them. Mentors, education etc.. will not change them. That is what they are and that is what they know. By the way- the poeple that advocate for prisoners rights really need to look at the victim more. TV's?, Cable?, Gyms? give me a break!
Posted by: Di | February 29, 2008 at 09:16 AM