Being a person who does not like to suppress and depress herself by watching a show for 30 minutes about riots, rallies, revolutions and rising gas prices, I do not delve into the world of news. However, I do find local news stories to be a lot more interesting and rather personal. Therefore, for this blog I chose to follow KTRE. Yes, KTRE is not technologically forward, however, that does not mean they should be put off to the side. They bring to us news that relates to our own area, which other news stations cannot do. One could turn on the channel and see a person who they graduated with accused of doing an act that one may or may not have been surprised about hearing. I can’t tell you how many people I have known that have been charged with things I would never have imagined. That is what is so intereting. Well, it’s interesting in my opinion at least.
The most recent post KTRE posted on their Facebook was Lufkin Police release video from high-speed chase and crash. I emerged myself in the 5 minute video. The chase was thrilling and eventful, and we all know that around these areas we don’t get too many news stories that are thrilling nor eventful. A 37-year-old-man named Robert Raymond Jones was the driver in a high-speed chase from last Sunday, February 20. Police were behind Jones from Diboll to Lufkin, to Diboll again. Jones frequently made illegal u-turns which could have resulted in many crashes that night. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured. The chase ended after authorities say Jones, of Houston, intentionally hit five patrol units and an 18-wheeler head-on. KTRE released RAW video of the speed demon in action.
In response to this video and article, I said, “I’m a little bummed that I was not able to see this happening in front of my own eyes. I mean, the highlight of my day or week is just being able to watch my 5 shows on Thursday nights. Maybe next time. But in all honesty, I am glad no one got hurt.”
Okay so maybe my comment was an odd truth in a sarcastic manner, but, it was what I was feeling at the time I posted it. I mean, I am being completely honest.
KTRE does a great job with creating a way for the community to get together and share their thoughts on these stories whether they are sad or inspiring. They open up discussions on their web site for people to chime in and, most importantly, they let you know first hand if your school is conveniently closing due to sever weather. KTRE also has an app that immediately lets you know of breaking news that I actually downloaded on my phone about a month ago.
News is becoming more and more technology ready with their use of Facebook, Twitter, blogs and apps. They will always be stepping up with the rest of us in the direction of new media and new technology.
{A. Rains} 