Indiana RadioWatch: January 7, 2003
Yes, it's been awhile. A long while. The average DJ has had two job
changes since I last produced an IRW :-)
To say "I've been busy" might be an understatement. Between two jobs, one
radio, and one that keeps food on the table, I've been fairly busy. It's
also allowed me some time to think about the future of this publication.
The way I see it, IRW needs to shift the way it's made. "What's he
talking about?" you ask...
I could publish IRW as a compilation of everything sent to me every week.
The upside is I spend less time digging. The downside is that I spend
less time digging :-) I simply don't have the time to read the major
radio publications (AllAccess, R&R, FCC, etc.) This shifts the burden to
you to send me bits and pieces from these publications, as well as local
news, etc. Some of you already do, however the majority of you assume I
do the dirty work myself, and need no help. I'm not generally someone to
ask for help, but I've gotten many "I miss you" e-mails the last few
months. It's wonderful to be appreciated, and I can't thank those who've
written in enough!
I would love to edit IRW, making it YOUR publication. I'd add in names of
contributors ("Joe Smith tells us that his local station WZZZ flipped from
Polka to Rap last week") - or simply report the story, without your name,
if you wish. Anonymity assured, confidentiality very understood and
promised.
Now I need your help. I want to know what you think. I've rarely talked
about IRW as a whole, but there are roughly 500 of you, and I receive
between 10 and 15 e-mails after every issue. That's a 2-3% return rate.
If we produce something meaningful, I'll honestly need more help.
My desire is IRW not become a gossip/rumor rag. It's difficult keeping
some journalistic principles, yet produce an exciting radio column devoid
of rumors and editorializing.
All of the e-mails sent to me have been kept. Address changes and new
additions will be processed in the next few days. With the next issue, if
something still is incorrect, send me an e-mail. If you're paranoid I
didn't get your e-mail already, badger me again. Believe me, I can take
the abuse :-)
As for what's been going on lately, I'll soon publish an issue that only
has what's been submitted plus my knowledge of changes within my local
market.
I've tried to keep this e-mail light, but reality does force a few
changes. Above all, IRW will continue to be free. I've done everything
out of the goodness of my heart, and I have no desire to change the
publication into a moneymaker.
I eagerly await your comments. E-mail me: irw@well.com
Until next time...
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