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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Previous Entry
Question.. Why didn't you show the sister of the gang member who shot all the people at the Bus Stop giving her bull shit comments about how her gang banger brother didn't commit this animalistic crime. Many people live in denial in these ghetto neighborhoods because they accept and condone violence as a life style. Expose the sickness behind the story and you will better understand the problem.
Posted by: kelly huff | February 29, 2008 at 09:25 AM
Frank,
You do a great job and keep it up!! You are the best strong and serious voice the show has had!!
Julie Ontario, CA
Posted by: Julie | February 29, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Love the comments, all of them.
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Posted by: DEVIN DAVIDSON | February 29, 2008 at 09:32 AM
Hi Frank:
I want to add to all of the positive comments people are making. Yes, I liked and do miss Carlos, but you are doing just FINE! You are getting more & more relaxed and are doing great. I feel you interact with the others very well. All of you are a great part of my mornings. Keep up the good work! About Mark's blog - Huh?
Karen from Burbank
Posted by: Karen | February 29, 2008 at 09:33 AM
Hi Frank,
I just wanted to say that when Carlos left, I said to my husband that you had some really big shoes to fill. And although I still miss Carlos, you have grown on me and I find you a great fit to the team. I think what may have tainted you to some of the viewers is the sudden departure of Carlos and how we, the viewers, never were told what happened and why he left. He just disappeared without any farewell or explanation and when someone has been part of your daily lives for so many years, and a new guy comes along, you resent the new guy, even though its not his fault.
Anyways, I just wanted to say you are doing a great job, especially in keeping Mark in line, but I still miss Carlos sometimes and even though I can see him on Fox, it's not the same without the rest of the team.
By the way, what happened to Lu Parker on the Early Show? She disappeared without any warning either. Don't get me wrong, I think it's great that Eric is finally an anchor. I always thought Lu was an odd fit in the morning and I think Eric is great. I just miss the angry airport guy (haha)
Thanks and have a great day.
Posted by: Phyllis | February 29, 2008 at 09:46 AM
Hi Frank, I am really enjoying you! I miss Carlos but not enough to go to that horrid channel 11.
Keep letting your personality come out...it's working.
Posted by: Cubby | February 29, 2008 at 09:46 AM
Hi Frank, I am really enjoying you! I miss Carlos but not enough to go to that horrid channel 11.
Keep letting your personality come out...it's working.
Posted by: Cubby | February 29, 2008 at 09:47 AM
Sorry for the double post...
Posted by: Cubby | February 29, 2008 at 10:05 AM
Thanks for the shout out, Frank. Appreciate being read.
About your earlier Buckley Blog (2/6/08) - your boys and the demonstration of good sportsmanship - I tried to comment a day or two after you posted but the comment wouldn't upload. Thought it was user error and moved on.
Posted by: jozielee | February 29, 2008 at 10:24 AM
Frank, welcome to the best morning news crew ever. I've been an avid ktla morning news viewer (since I was 8 yrs. old!). I can still remember getting ready for school watching the original crew (How I miss Barbara Beck, Jennifer York, and of course Carlos).. Now in the mornings I get ready to contribute to Corporate America, I watch you guys and you are doing a great job as well. Keep up the good work and let's keep KTLA morning news #1 for another lifetime.
Posted by: Melanie | February 29, 2008 at 10:45 AM
Hi Frank, I have been a viewer of the Ktla morning news since I was in middle school. I been a big fan since then, now 26 yrs and married I still have my TV on auto set to wake me up to your morning news. I have seen many changes through the years some good some bad, but change is always part of the work force. I think you are a great replacement for Carlos, I really do miss him and I tried watching him on channel 11 but I feel he just doesn't fit there. It was great to hear him this morning. You all do a great job every morning! Your still #1 on my book. To all the new anchors that have join the team in the last couple of years, you have brought a great addition to the sation. I hope big and better changes come to your management and they see what a great team you guys are and keeps it that way. Love you all! me
P.S. to your commentator Charlene, "it's not a obligation to read them so if you don't have time then don't read the blogs or skip the long ones" Keep the writing going guys it's great!
Posted by: Monica Espinoza | February 29, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Frank, you make a great addition to the team! Don't listen to people when they say you dont"fit" with the group. But you should listen to the woman who said you should do the show only wearing a tie ;) !!!!
Posted by: angel evans | February 29, 2008 at 11:15 AM
I think all the comments about missing Carlos (and some of the other earlier folks) represent how well KTLA does with the Morning Show in creating a real sense of belonging for us the viewers. I think it is a magnificent accomplishment, and I too feel quite attached to the show after many years of watching.
I think you are fitting in fine. I feel I can trust you, and I see the "little boy" in you as well as the newsman. Keep up the good work.
I loved your story about how you got your two boys to talk at dinner. Brilliant.
See ya Monday.
Posted by: Robin in San Diego | February 29, 2008 at 01:13 PM
Frank, When Carlos left I could not imagine such a good replacement was even available. I was comfortable with you from day one and have enjoyed you each morning since. You seem like a heck of a guy and do your job very well. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Ted Taylor | February 29, 2008 at 01:14 PM
Frank, When Carlos left I could not imagine such a good replacement was even available. I was comfortable with you from day one and have enjoyed you each morning since. You seem like a heck of a guy and do your job very well. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Ted Taylor | February 29, 2008 at 01:15 PM
Frank, When Carlos left I could not imagine such a good replacement was even available. I was comfortable with you from day one and have enjoyed you each morning since. You seem like a heck of a guy and do your job very well. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Ted Taylor | February 29, 2008 at 01:15 PM
Frank first off I must say you are a good fit to KTLA and the morning news team because you come from the land of Troy. That being said I can tell that you are adjusting your reporting style and i appreciate your points of view and also respect that you are not afraid to call someone out if you feel the need to. An example of that was in todays hot topics segment during the discussion of what age did you first lose your virginity....your comment "I don't think it's appropriate" was an excellent example of how you are opening up and taking ownership of what you as a team are sharing with your viewers. As being the new guy on the block and be saying on the air, in a respectful manner i must say, that a senior member of the team asaked a question that was inappropriate, gave me the indication that you are comfortable where your at and you are not afraid to express your honest opinion on the various topics. Keep up the good work and I look forward to reading some of the other blogs in the future.
Posted by: Gregg | February 29, 2008 at 01:19 PM
I think you are doing a fine job. I've always watched KTLA news in the morning before work and believe you are a good fit. I can not bear to watch KTTV. The anchors give off a very trashy vibe. One thing that the news needs is more stories about space pampers.
Posted by: sister i'm a poet | February 29, 2008 at 03:50 PM
Hi Frank--
Just to let you know, I was really upset when Carlos left as I thought he was the only fairly sane one at KTLA. However, the more I see you, the more a like you. You seem to fit in very well with the likes of Kriski, etc. But I do like the serious news comments you offer at the appropriate times. Thanks for being there!
Posted by: Judy Avery | February 29, 2008 at 04:38 PM
Frank, You are so funny on the morning news. There are only a few shows that I watch that I laugh out loud at, they are 2 1/2 Men, Back To You and The KTLA Morning News. You and Mark bounce off of each other so well, and the rest of the ensemble adds so much! You are all a great TEAM!!! I can't get anything done until after 10 a.m. most days and the teachers at my kids' school are wondering what happened to their star volunteer this year (07-08), well, she's at home watching the KTLA Morning News and loving every minute of it.
THANKS GANG for making my day
Mon. - Fri. God Bless you all!
Posted by: Joanie | February 29, 2008 at 08:48 PM
Hi Frank,
I just want to say that you are doing a wonderful job. I'm 24 years old and I've been watching the KTLA Morning News since 1993. I remember during the Summertime I would wake up and watch the news. I know a 10 year old watching the news but I did. That's why I fell in love with broadcast journalism but I was never able to reach my goal. Anyways, You are the best. I remember watching you on Channel 9, CNN & now with KTLA. Don't let these haters get to you. Your not a stiff. Your are a great addition to the KTLA Family and I wish you the best.
Posted by: Art | February 29, 2008 at 09:14 PM
Frank-My husband and I are long time Morning News fans. We have been through the changes in staff. Some we missed, others not. On the note of Carlos, yes we miss him or should I say the KTLA show misses him because we can still tune in "somewhere" to see him. I am kidding of course, I know where I can tune in to see him (and we do when it fits our schedule given we have a 16 month old. We are usually in bed by 8:30). I don't usually take the time to look up or comment on non-professional subjects (both my husband and I work FULL time jobs. I work for a large corporation and my husband runs a successful small construction business). Having said that, we are loyal fans to the KTLA morning show and rely on it to get our day started. Yes, we missed Carlos in the beginning but we have grown to LOVE you too. Nevermind all the nonsense about you being too serious and "CNN". We expect you to be first and foremost a journalist and personality to come after. I considered you part of our "tv morning family" soon after you joined the news team. We enjoy your comments, candor and personality. Not commenting on the "losing your virginity before or after 20" question earlier today was a sign of your persona. I am not knocking Michaela for asking but I found it classic and classy that you found the question "not appropriate". Keep up the good work. You are a great fit in the eyes of this loyal fan (or fan base given I represent hubby and baby too). I read the blogs you guys referred to after hearing the segment this morning. Funny, corporate crap. I understand. I see it every day in my line of work. Belated welcome to your morning team. On the receiving end- you are WELL accepted.
Posted by: Norma Leon | February 29, 2008 at 11:56 PM
Am a longtime KTLA Morning News viewer and a longtime Frank Buckley watcher and I think the marriage is a good one.
Mark and Michaela provide the goofiness, Sam brings more of the celebrity stuff than I personally want to see and Frank is the news voice that keeps everything focused.
With all TV moving toward silliness (reality ad nauseum) it's refreshing that someone can still focus on things that make a difference in people's lives rather than on what some spoiled heiress or alcohol-sodden starlet did the night before. A belated welcome, Frank, and keep up the great work.
Posted by: Jim in Anaheim | March 01, 2008 at 01:38 AM
I dig you frank. You're my favorite anchor. I dig you to the point i feel bad that you're kind of the one everyone loves to pick on. Either way I respect you as an anchor.
I know I want to write I just don't know what kind of writer I want to be, but if journalism is the path I take I can only hope to be as half as good as you are.
Posted by: Cris(tina) | March 01, 2008 at 04:14 AM
Mr. Buckley-
I have been a fan of yours for sooo long. And now that you are on my favorite morning show, I am so thrilled.
Yes, we can all see the transition & it's wonderful.
Please continue to keep up the great work.
From your #1 fan, Lili
Posted by: Lili | March 01, 2008 at 09:38 AM