The Early Days of Phoenix Television
KPHO was the first station to hit the local airwaves on Dec. 4, 1949. At that time, there were very few TV sets in the city and only one TV station. But in just five years, there were five TV stations. Now, due to digital and streaming, there are more than 100 possible off-air channels in Phoenix. People used to plan their nights around must-see TV programming. "You had a whole lineup of programs; it was appointment TV," Craft said.Mary Jo West was the first female news anchor in Phoenix in 1976. She recalls people saying things like, "Oh, I get to go to bed with you every night, or I have dinner with you every night." One of the nicest calls she received on her debut night was from a lady in Sun City who said, "Tell that blonde-headed tomato to go straight home and cook supper for her husband."
Back then, field crews had to carry around a lot of heavy equipment. They used an old three-quarter recording deck that had to be tethered to a control unit, a power supply, and the camera itself. Editing stories took several hours, and developing and cutting film was a time-consuming process.
The Impact of Technology on News Reporting
One of the biggest changes now is seeing how technology has replaced many people behind the scenes in production. Floor directors, camera operators, and audio and graphic specialists are now automated. "Today, if you go into a studio, you will see a lot of automated cameras and robot cameras," West said.Innovation has also improved efficiency and time. Editing stories is now digital, with fancy dissolves and special effects. "Life is so much easier," Craft said, reminiscing about the old behind-the-scenes chaos. "You would see somebody running frantically from the editing room up to the engineering area to put the videotape on the air as the anchor was talking about the lead-in to a particular story."
One of the most memorable photos from John's book is a KPHO weather girl from 1960 standing in front of a generic map with a pointer stick. Now, we have more sophisticated tools like digital maps and computer-generated graphics.
The Shift from Analog to Digital
In 2009, the industry shifted from analog to digital, improving quality and accelerating efficiency. "We can carry a TV station in our pocket," Craft said. Our crews can now go live with a cell phone and a backpack, without the need for cables or microwave vans. The smallest field cameras are not much bigger than a traditional still photo camera and can record hours on a single SD card.John even remembers when teleprompters were used on studio cameras instead of appearing in a reflective mirror in front of the lens. Scripts used to scroll on a roll of paper below the lens.
The Future of Television News
Rapid innovation has catapulted us into the future. From the first artificial news anchor in 1985 to the emerging AI news gaining ground in other countries, the future is full of possibilities. John's students are now learning to dream ever-bigger and anticipate the demands for new content and mediums.The House of Broadcasting is working to set up a new display at the Chandler Museum so that next year, people can see all the history of television news firsthand. It's a journey through 75 years of evolution.
Copyright 2024 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.Uncover the Magic of the Holiday Season
Thanksgiving Feet to Feast 5k
On Thursday, Nov. 28, get ready to lace up your shoes for the Thanksgiving Feet to Feast 5k. The event takes place from 7:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Daytona State College Flagler/Palm Coast, located at 3000 Palm Coast Parkway SE. Dress up in a costume and participate in the costume contest. Placement medals will be awarded to the overall men's winner, overall women's winner, and first, second, and third place men's and women's winners in 14 different age categories. Registration costs $35 in advance and $40 on the day of the race. Student registration is just $20. For more information, visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/PalmCoast/FeettoFeast5k.
Before indulging in the Thanksgiving feast, this timed run/walk is a great way to get active and have some fun. It's a perfect opportunity to show off your holiday spirit while competing for medals and having a great time.
Thanksgiving Happenings at Hammock Beach Resort
From 12-5 p.m. on Thanksgiving, head to Hammock Beach Resort & Spa at 200 Ocean Crest Drive in Palm Coast. The resort's Thanksgiving Buffet is open to all and hosted in the Ocean Ballroom. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including seasonal soups, salads, and seafood, along with a carving station featuring oven-roasted turkey and marinated strip loin roast. A selection of desserts will include pumpkin pie, pecan pie, sweet potato cheesecake, and more. Buffet costs $84 for guests, $68 for members, and $25 for children ages 4-12. Reservations are required. Call Christine Losagio at 386-246-5676 or email [email protected] by Nov. 25.
This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving with a delicious buffet and a relaxing atmosphere. The resort's attention to detail and variety of dishes make it a must-visit event during the holiday season.
Fourth annual Holiday Market
On Saturday, Nov. 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., head to the Flagler County Fairgrounds at 150 Sawgrass Road in Bunnell. Shop from over 100 local vendors at the fourth annual Holiday Market. There will be food trucks and appearances by Santa. Free entry makes it accessible to everyone.
This holiday market is a great place to find unique gifts and support local businesses. With food trucks on site and the presence of Santa, it's a fun and festive event for the whole family.
Palm Coast tree lighting ceremony
From 6-9 p.m. on Nov. 30, the city of Palm Coast invites the community to the Palm Coast tree lighting ceremony at Central Park at Town Center, 975 Central Ave. This event kicks off Palm Coast Rotary Club's 19th Annual Fantasy Light Festival. Join Santa Claus, the Palm Coast City Council, and the Rotary Club of Flagler County for a night of festivities. There will be food trucks, Santa's Village, Letters to Santa station, limited edition 25th anniversary Christmas ornament giveaway, and kids crafts. Photos with Santa will also be available.
The tree lighting ceremony is a highlight of the holiday season in Palm Coast. It brings the community together and creates a magical atmosphere with all the activities and decorations.
Holiday Concert at The Stage at Town Center
On Thursday, Dec. 5, from 6-8 p.m., the city of Palm Coast Parks and Recreation hosts a holiday concert at The Stage at Town Center, 1500 Central Ave. Ashley Estevez will perform, and you can listen to holiday classics while bundled up. There will also be food trucks and vendors.
This holiday concert is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some great music. The combination of food trucks and vendors adds to the festive atmosphere.
Holiday at the Beach parade
On Saturday, Dec. 7, from 1-3 p.m., the free Holiday at the Beach parade takes place along North 6th Street to South 6th Street in Flagler Beach. This parade is presented by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach.
The Holiday at the Beach parade is a fun and festive event that adds to the holiday cheer in Flagler Beach. It's a great way to see the community come together and enjoy the holiday season.
Pancake breakfast with Santa
On Saturday, Dec. 7, from 8-10 a.m., join the Seawolf Privateers for a festival pancake breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Captain’s BBQ Bait & Tackle, 5862 N/ Oceanshore Blvd. in Palm Coast. All sales and donations will benefit the Seawolf Privateers to bring Christmas joy to foster and displaced children in the community. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Visit seawolfprivateers.org/fundraisers.
This pancake breakfast with Santa is a heartwarming event that supports a great cause. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while getting a chance to take photos with Santa.
Christmas Gala tea at The Casements
On Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m., join The Casements Guild for a holiday tea at 25 Riverside Drive in Ormond Beach. Tickets cost $40 per person. Call Arlene Halsey at 386-673-5312.
The Christmas Gala tea is a elegant and enjoyable event that allows you to relax and enjoy the holiday season. It's a great way to spend an afternoon with friends and family.
Duke University: A Hub for Athletic Excellence
Duke University has long been renowned for its excellence in various sports disciplines. In the realm of swimming, it offers a platform for athletes like Lily Doyle to thrive. The coaching staff at Duke plays a crucial role in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth. Doyle's commitment to Duke is a testament to the university's reputation and its ability to attract top-notch swimmers.With its state-of-the-art facilities and a rich swimming tradition, Duke provides an ideal environment for athletes to pursue their dreams. The university's commitment to academic excellence also ensures that swimmers can balance their studies and training effectively.
Doyle's journey from a state champion to a Duke Blue Devil showcases the potential that lies within each swimmer. It is a story of hard work, perseverance, and the support of family, coaches, and friends.
Ponte Vedra High School and Planet Swim Aquatics: A Strong Foundation
Doyle's success is built on a strong foundation provided by Ponte Vedra High School and the Planet Swim Aquatics club. These institutions have played a vital role in shaping her as a swimmer and an individual.The training and guidance received at Ponte Vedra High School and Planet Swim Aquatics have equipped Doyle with the skills and determination needed to compete at the highest level. The club's focus on competitive swimming has helped her develop her technique and build her endurance.
Doyle's performances at the FHSAA Class 3A state championship are a testament to the quality of training she has received. Her best times in the 200 free, 500 free, 1000 free, and 1650 free demonstrate her versatility and potential.
USA Swimming Futures Championships: A Platform for Growth
Doyle's participation in USA Swimming Futures Championships has been a crucial stepping stone in her swimming career. These championships provide a platform for swimmers to compete against the best in the country and gain valuable experience.At the Ocala meet in 2023 and the Richmond meet in 2024, Doyle showcased her skills and improved her times. Her performances at these events have earned her a place among the top swimmers in the country.
The long course 800 free, 1500 free, and 200 free events at the Richmond meet were particularly challenging, but Doyle rose to the occasion and finished in the top 28. Her ability to perform under pressure is a testament to her mental toughness and determination.
Fitter and Faster Swim Camps: Nurturing Future Champions
Fitter and Faster Swim Camps are known for their innovative teaching platforms and their ability to develop competitive swimmers of all levels. The camps are led by elite swimmers and coaches who share their knowledge and experience with the participants.Through the Fitter and Faster Swim Camps, swimmers like Doyle have the opportunity to refine their skills, improve their technique, and build their confidence. The camps provide a supportive environment where athletes can push themselves to the limit and achieve their goals.
Whether it's year-round camps in the USA or Canada, Fitter and Faster Swim Camps offer a unique experience for swimmers. The camps are designed to help athletes reach their full potential and prepare them for the challenges of college swimming and beyond.
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