I passed by the Seagate Center today and I saw the bus of tonight’s performer parked outside. Yes, Glen Beck was in town to do his Christmas show.
I wasn’t driving. I was a passenger. The driver had the radio tuned to WSPD. It has been about a year that I gave up listening to this station. Before I asked the driver to switch the station I was “treated” to a vitriolic diatribe by the afternoon host/program director whose name I don’t recall. .
The diatribe? In a couple of minutes the host managed to impugn the intelligence the people of the city of Toledo (he probably meant the majority of the voting public) using very colorful, unkind language. He also called us apathetic. He then went on to disparage all elected officials. It seems we are too dumb to elect anyone except worthless and dishonest people. He closed his pontification by saying that this is why Toledo is such a broken down city.
I won’t take the time here to defend Toledo. One way or the other most everyone has already made up his or her mind. What I will point out is, when summing up the negative aspects of Toledo, WSPD radio has been a major player.
For example, IMO: The station helped escalate the hysteria leading to the riots in the North End. The clash of egos masquerading as a violation of freedom of the press hurt the city. Broadcasting Gen Beck’s syndicated show has done irreparable harm to the country.
At the time I was listening to WSPD Glen Beck was devoting a major portion of airtime to instilling apocalyptic fear of Iran. At the same time I was researching and learning about how the “neocons” were planning and preparing to go to war with Iran. I believed then, and still do, that Mr. Beck was preparing his listeners to find it acceptable to take a preemptive strike against Iran.
When the program director came to Toledo I made an honest effort to understand his interpretation of libertarianism. I gave him a year. At best, his idea of how this country should function could be described as a Utopian concept. Utopias would work if people would actually use a higher level of thinking. In the year I listened to the afternoon host I heard nothing even remotely resembling higher-level thinking. The one bright spot is Maggie Thurber. I don’t always agree with her but she had a sharp mind. I find her challenging. As for what’s his name, we’d be better off if he left town.
It's all about ratings. Rant and rave and make noise to get better ratings.
http://toledoohioneighborhoodconcerns.com/blog
to reinforce the negativism that pervades Toledo, and they seem to be succeeding.
The station claims to be "fair and balanced", which is a joke. They spew negatives, with an occasional positive thrown in. Costructive criticizm should be welcome, but to be "fair and balanced", some solutions should be offered.
First, LEW, the 'fair and balanced' catch phrase is the Fox News logo and applies only to the news, and then only to the Fox feed of national news. WSPD has never claimed to be 'fair and balanced" and has, in fact, clearly stated that the opinions of the hosts are just that - opinions. And the news department is completely separate from the talk show portion of the programming.
Chico - while I appreciate your compliment, I cannot agree that WSPD, as a whole or even in part, is bad for Toledo. You may not agree with the positions the talk show hosts take, but this area has an extreme need for people to speak out with opinions, commentary and facts about the challenges we, as a community, face. After years in politics, I've seen first-hand how events and actions are covered - usually with just a repeat of whatever was said without any questioning of the reason or logic behind the assumptions. And, that goes for the basic philosophies espoused by many of the elected officials in terms of what solutions are proposed for the myriad of problems. We've had the same philosophies in public leadership roles for decades and, despite all the claims, these philosophies have not resulted in a thriving area.
My husband continues to say that the area is like a drug addict which hasn't hit rock bottom to know it needs to change. I like his analogy - and I can't help but see perspectives such as those offered on WSPD as a type of 'intervention.'
Another point is to separate the 'presentation' from the opinion. People may disagree with how a point is made, but is the point, itself, incorrect? Being able to separate these two aspects is what will lead to greater discussions.
Why is it that WSPD even uses the Fox News feed of national news?
Is this the station manager's decision, Clear Channel directive, what?
... I don't know the exact ins and outs of the decision but all the Clear Channel stations I've listened to in other cities use the Fox News Feed. Perhaps it's a contractual thing that Clear Channel nationally has agreed to?
But, various radio stations use various feeds. WSPD used to have one of the major three (it was either ABC or CBS but I don't remember which one, though I'm sure it wasn't NBC) networks and now they have Fox. To be quite honest, I rarely pay attention to the national news feed because I get more of my national/international news from multiple sources, but primarily internet sites. I do listen quite attentively to WSPD's local news.
If I have a chance, I'll ask about this and see if I can get a definite answer for you., :)
I think it's a regional contract. The Clear Channel Stations down here use the LOCAL NEWS STATION for news and weather breaks.
Thanks.
I can't help but see perspectives such as those offered on WSPD as a type of 'intervention
Ive also heard it asked - 'If an insect control person points out termite infestation in your home, do you thank him for the info he pointed out that you were not aware of, or do you just call him negative?'
Some people don't understand news commentary, unless it is aligned with their view of the world.
One can love Toledo and Toledo's mayor and listen to WSPD.
Maggie...There is always a need for opinions, commentary and facts. Personally, I don't care for Brian Wilson's presentation. If I heard you utter his words I would say it's time to fot you for a straight jacket. I don't care for most of his opinions either but he is entitled to them. Some of us are luckier than others in that he has a bigger soap box than most. This wasn't my point.
My point is this, and only this: Brian Wilson and WSPD have contributed to the negativity here in Toledo. While most of us are used to media and advertizing trying to manipulate us (it's called marketing), it is my opinion that this station has cleverly, at times, manipulated their listeners in a way that has had a negative impact on the city.
For my tastes, Mr Wilson is neither intellectually stimulating nor inovative. As for you and your husband, I would ask: What comes after the intervention? It is time to move to the next step.
it is my opinion that this station has cleverly, at times, manipulated their listeners in a way that has had a negative impact on the city.
examples??
I gave three in my original post
Right on Chico. WSPD is bad for Toledo. They poison the public airwaves. Very similar to the way some companies dump poisons into public water, they poison the minds of their listeners. That's their intent, and it works. I can't tell you how many times I've heard people parrot their talking points. It's time to call their sponsors, and tell them what you think. Better yet, boycott their sponsors (lead a public campaign to do so). You can find their sponsors on their website. Here are a few:
David Fairclough Fine Jewelers (419-843-8887)
Hansons Windows Siding Roofing (419-482-8400)
Advanced Limo (419-447-5466)
Toledo Web Pros (866-526-4309)
Seagate Foundation Services (419-244-5325)
I was in charge a few years back of setting up some radio advertisment. I meet with their sales staff. Afterward, I felt compelled to listen to the station to see what they were about. Needless to say, they didn't get our business.
I find it interesting that you think listeners are parroting the WSPD talking points rather than WSPD reflecting the ideas of their listeners.
For the record - there are no talking points. While the three hosts have similar philosophical views, we don't get together to coordinate what we're going to say or what the 'position' will be. It may be hard to believe, but three people looking at an issue from their own perspectives can come to similar conclusions, lol.
I find it interesting that you think listeners are parroting the WSPD talking points rather than WSPD reflecting the ideas of their listeners
When people practically quote a hosts idea word for word it becomes pretty clear that the propaganda has sunk in. But you are correct about the "talking points" comment of mine. I should have said "point of view". Btw, are there demographics that exist for WSPD's listenership? The reason I ask, is that I wonder if WSPD truly does reflect the view of their listeners. Afterall, Toledo is mostly Democratic-leaning. Or is this just an assumption?
...it's not an assumption that Toledo is mostly democratic-leaning...but republicans have been known to get elected, so that means that even democrats cross party lines. :)
I don't know about the demographics for the listenership - not something I've gotten in to in my short time at the station.
Although, I will share with you a comment I got. A guy called and told me he really didn't care what I said, he just liked the sound of my voice. Well, he clarified that he did care, but what I was saying wasn't anywhere near as important to him as the way I sounded when I said it. Personally, I was just glad he was listening to me.
While I'm sure it's a big factor, it isn't always the point of view that people listen to.
Chris... I find it interesting that you feel free to name some of the WSPD sponsors, but fail to mention your own business in the paragraph that followed your list. Although you didn't decide to sponsor WSPD, why don't you go ahead and tell us the name of your business and its phone number? Why pass up on some free advertising? Don't you want your phone to ring, too?
I'll let you know if I need your business.
He also called us apathetic.
By looking at voter turn out for the last, say, 10 years. Is he right?
He then went on to disparage all elected officials. It seems we are too dumb to elect anyone except worthless and dishonest people. He closed his pontification by saying that this is why Toledo is such a broken down city
I see no error here either. Dont shoot the messenger.
You may want to add these clients to your list: TARTA, which you just voted a levy for, the Toledo Symphony one of Toledo's jewels, the Toledo Zoo another of our gems, numerous top name auto dealers, the University of Toledo both football and basketball etc. etc. Here's an easier solution. If you don't like what you hear listen to something else. This works for both radio and television stations. At this point WSPD is the third most listened to show in the morning for adults, number one of the AM stations so you may be in the minority in your opinions but don't let that stop you from furthering damaging the business outlook in Toledo by boycotting people who are successful. What an open minded concept.
Oh, I don't doubt WSPD's success. Either fascist propaganda sells, or there are only so many talk show stations in Toledo. It's either WSPD or WTOD. Some competition....bravo on beating them.
Fraud said: "If you don't like what you hear listen to something else."
Translation: "Continue to let Clear Channel poison the public airwaves. Don't rock the boat. Don't try in enact any change. Go to sleep."
That's funny, you've got 2 hosts from the same station---one says we need to advocate for change. The other says don't try to change anything if it hurts us. Very hypocritical.
Translation: "Continue to let Clear Channel poison the public airwaves. Don't rock the boat. Don't try in enact any change. Go to sleep."
why would you even say that when that's the way toledo has voted for decades??
Just exactly who, who wants to make some changes from the current 'all hail to the mighty democrat/union empire' mindset have you voted for lately???
You should know, Chico, that what's his name, Brian Wilson, is also the program director for WSPD. He gets to control the message of the station all day, every day. Just like his idol, Roger Ailes.
WSPD Negative for Toledo. First of all CHICO the mayor needs his azz wiped, but you better move Brian Schwartz out of the way.
Second, I am an avid listener of the station, all the personalities try to do is bring to light the corrupt city government, all the crap that goes on in this town with the good Ole' boy network that has been destroying this town for years. Have you been downtown lately? There are so many empty buildings, I wish I was a plywood salesman. What progress has this city made over last 30 years? We are taxed beyond belief, business leave at a record pace for Wood County. Our City Council and Mayor take away business from private enterprise. We continue to be the laughing stock of Ohio down in Columbus.
Have you ever listened to Maggie Thurbur, who knows the ins and outs of this political community? She openly invites County Commissioners to come on her show to refute any facts that are said on any WSPD program, and none of them respond. Why?
Even the Blade listens to every program and transcribes it. Then they report stories on things discussed on the station, pretending like they did not hear it there.
Boycott there sponsors, ohh that's real intelligent for the economy.
The people of this town never cease to amaze and disappoint me.
...what to say, what topic to discuss, or what the message was supposed to be.
I've not been asked to take or advocate a position I don't agree with, either.
Sorry, Craig, but your speculation isn't supported by the facts.
The fact that all of the weekday personalities, both local and national, share "similar philosophical views" is merely coincidental, then?
...the national talk show hosts - only the ones I know personally.
Brian doesn't tell me what to think or say or what topics to cover or what opinion I'm 'supposed' to have about any issue. Perhaps my philosophical perspective is part of what got me the job, rather than any speculation that Brian Wilson dictates specific positions???
Are you saying or implying, Craig, that I'm not being truthful in this statement?
No, I don't think you are lying about the fact that he does not give you specific marching orders. I'm just saying he doesn't have to dictate specific positions since he knows your philosophical perspective.
You are, by far, the classiest of the lot. I think your presence at the station lends WSPD a credibility they would not otherwise have. By now, any of the other personalities would have resorted to name-calling and insults and ending their rant with the usual "And I mean that with all due respect."
Thank you for the compliment. It's much appreciated.
I heard the Glenn Beck broadcast about his thoughts on Toledo. Some guy called into the show to protest - said Beck was horrible for saying bad things, etc. Quite honestly - I agreed with everything Beck said about Toledo. He hit all the nails on the head - truth may hurt, but I imagine any visitor to Toledo is coming to the same conclusions. Maybe Toledoans are too close, or too loyal to Toledo to see it's problems in full - I don't know, thinking out loud. Sometimes, new eyes can see the problems that are hitting us square in the face but we're so immune, we don't see it (used to it?). That is probably a huge leap. I think Toledoan's just don't want to hear the truth when it's bad, and would rather feel giddy over misbegotten awards. This third best city award is a joke, but lots of Toledoans are patting Toledo on the back, thinking we're better than we are.
To boycott advertisers on WSPD is absurd - most radio stations (I think) let it be known that the opinions voiced are not necessarily the opinons of the station - just like tv stations do. (If I am wrong, let me know.) Chico - your anger is misplaced, or maybe you only like to hear good news, and pretend the bad things don't exist. Beck was 100 percent accurate - and problems don't get fixed by pretending they don't exist. If you think visitors won't come to Toledo based upon comments Beck made on wspd, you need to open your eyes. They won't 'not come', anymore then they 'will come' based on that stupid 3rd best city award & having a poet laureate. Toledo has survived lots of jokes & publicity - from cheesy songs to Klinger's comments on MASH. It will survive this as well. How well Toledo does in the future, will depend on how much we work to change the very things that Beck pointed out. Toledoan's are apathetic? Hell yes, they are. (although, I think public apathy peaked for all of Ohio when they passed the smoking ban, and try to ban games of chance.) Toledo IS a joke right now - get used to it or work to change it. I can say the same for Oregon, Ohio as well - the crooked politicians there are just as bad. And yet, the masses keep on voting for the same inept people. One example that comes to mind is the last sheriff election - all unions always vote for the Democrat - even though, Telb is as crooked & inefficient as they come. Toledo lost out on having a highly ethical, extremely well trained man, who knew first hand the atrocities going on at the jail & nepotism. Instead, the masses voted Telb in again. I think he & Oregon's mayor have been in office forever (and her name is Marge, not Mary).
At least we have given something else for to WSPD to whine about.
"Those mouth breathing bloggers are so mean."
They should be able to milk this for a week or so. Too bad they refuse to give out this web site's name. Of course we actually have a discussion here, verses being fed a bunch of crap.
WSPD has repeatedly asked Carty to list the "half truths, untruths, and outright lies" that he said WSPD spread.
So Sensor you got bigger stones than Carty? Would you care to elaborate on the 'crap' that theyre feeding us?
What's being said that's untrue? Or is it just the people who are in front of the mike's OPINIONS that you disagree with, and the items they speak about are factual?
Everything that comes out of Fred's or Wilson's mouth is pretty much crap. Their entire formula is to read the Blade, find a story to fiend horror about and start to spin it with a wing nut slant. The most recent things to come to mind are "discussion" about a poet laureate or polar bears.
it's just what I said.
Find another channel and change your pampers.
Your two examples - Polar Bears and the Poet Laureate...
Both reported by the blade -
Both commented on In Swamp bubbles
Both commented on in Toledo Talk
Note - on Swampb and TT, you can expand both topics to Global warming and the time/money the local government is spending on creating an art community, and you can say that both topics have been discussed EXTENSIVELY - with plenty of opinions on both sides of the issues...
SO - I'd say it's fair to say, they are topics that lots of people feel strongly about - which makes them an intelligent choice for talk radio.
BUT - If Fred talks about it, it's bad for Toledo, just because he gives his opinion. (An opinion that about half of the posters of either topic happen to agree with)
Give Fred a break! He's not a democrat, he cant have multiple opinions on the same issue!!!
If he talks about it, it's pollution and people should contact their advertisers and tell them to pull their business?
What a fucking moronic idea. And you morons want to talk about lack of originality?? The idea to call the advertisers when you don't like what you hear isn't even original!! Welcome to the club started by frigging CARTY!!!
You're in just about equal company.
Remember when WSPD reported that Carty parked illegally in a center lane and chastised some forestry workers for taking their break? That story took all of fifteen minutes to debunk, which raises the question: Why didn't WSPD realize the story was imbellished?
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"When I say your dumb name, please stand up briefly, but then quickly drop to your knees and forsake all others before me." -Ignignokt
I should point out that on a number of occasions i have mentioned this blog and others by name on my show. i find it interesting that people want wspd to change it's ways but are content to allow the city they live in to continue to lose population, businesses, and tax income while doing nothing to stop it. i'd love to hear what chico's and other's "positive' ideas are for moving the city forward. other than boycotting viable businesses of course. i await the brilliance i'm sure will follow below. by the way you can always call and be on the air, i won't interrupt and you'll be able to dazzle toledo with your ideas and maybe change a few minds.
I don't hear a lot of ideas from you Fred... You spend your time telling everyone how bad everyone's else's ideas are. You bitch about taxes in Toledo, but we pay considerable less the many of suburbs. You also give the suburbs a free pass when it comes to levies. You droned on and on and on and on and on about the COSI levy, but hardly me word about Springfield or Sylvania levies.
Why? Because Toledo = Bad and suburbs = Good. Another long list as to why WSPD is bad for Toledo.
I propose a WSPD drinking game.
Everything Fred or Wilson say the following you have to take a shot...
"Bike Path"
"Flowers"
"Mouth Breathers"
Anyone have any others?
If I was inclined I could probably think of a lot...
"logic-free zone"
"audio radiance"
"demolition derby"
"carl funkboner"
To name a few...
WSPD is not bad for Toledo, Brian Wilson is. This stuttering, stammering, patter-spewing "pantload" has wrecked the station. He came to the wasteland of Toledo from the "logic-free zone" of DC to educate us ignorant hicks about how things should be. Now most of the local programming is a repetitive bitch session. With Fred slavishly parroting his boss in the morning and Wilson graciously dispensing his wisdom himself in the afternoon, it's a tag team of tough-talking whiners who have the difficult task of finding fault with morons like Carty and Konop, and who get into slapfights with the almighty Blade.
And now Glenn Beck, the flaccid Rush wannabe is lauded for stating the obvious, that Toledo looks like a disaster. How perceptive of him. I'm sure he didn't speak to Wilson at all before he came in order to know just what to say when he did his show here.
WSPD has never claimed to be 'fair and balanced" and has, in fact, clearly stated that the opinions of the hosts are just that - opinions. And the news department is completely separate from the talk show portion of the programming.
The news and talk departments are separate alright- the heads of the departments are married to each other! Can't get much more seperate than that! Nepotism anyone?
Another point is to separate the 'presentation' from the opinion. People may disagree with how a point is made, but is the point, itself, incorrect? Being able to separate these two aspects is what will lead to greater discussions.
True, although it's hard to separate the two when you're talking about a pompous ass like Wilson. The fact that someone who can barely utter a coherent sentence makes his living talking on the radio amazes me. Only in America!
Toledo has plenty of problems, anyone can see that. The hard thing to do is step up and try to fix them. C'mon Fred and Brian, when are you going to announce your candidacies for office? We need you two geniuses in charge, not behind a microphone! Stop teasing us with what could be, and go for it!
i find it interesting that people want wspd to change it's ways but are content to allow the city they live in to continue to lose population, businesses, and tax income while doing nothing to stop it.
Nice try Fred.
My point proven. When given an opportunity to promote their own ideas on how to improve the city the three geniuses above come up empty. BRAVO gentlemen/women BRAVO. Maybe the next posting will have some ideas, let's all read together......
Go ahead and kick off the discussion. What ideas have the crack minds at WSPD been advocating in the past year?
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"When I say your dumb name, please stand up briefly, but then quickly drop to your knees and forsake all others before me." -Ignignokt
Fred, I hope you're not trolling here for ideas while you're on company time. Your boss is the ultimate font of ideas after all. You guys have all the answers, now run for office so we can watch and marvel. I'll vote for you.
Here's the deal. You, your station manager and your station in general are the ones who are constantly, on a daily basis, telling your listeners whats wrong with the city, the mayor, the daily paper, the ignorant, moronic voters who keep voting for candidates and issues/levies you don't think should be voted for and/or passed.
The onus is on you, the ones complaining the loudest, to offer something fresh and invigorating, beyond the standard conservative/liberterian drumbeat of less taxes, more individual liberty, yada, yada, yada, coming straight from a station owned by Clear Channel, whose 'national news feed' is supplied by Fox News.
You seemed to have a strong opinion on why Toledo isn't the great transportation hub you think it should be, and in your smug, I-know-it-all and-you-don't assclown attitude, you tell us that you know, but you're going to leave it to us idiots to figure it all out for ourselves.
Terrific.
That comes across stunningly as the type of attitude you accuse the mayor and the owners of the daily paper of having...."we know it all, and you don't. Let us lead you by the nose."
Why don't you and your station manager exercise your 'personal liberty and freedom of choice' and just get the hell out of Dodge if you don't like it so much.
Oh, I know, you're trying to 'save' us from ourselves, LOL, right?
The intervention would have to be accepted before you can move on.
Since he's the "answer man"--how much impact do local politicians truly have on an economy? Or are Toledo's economic woes in line with most cities in Ohio (and Michigan for that matter), due to lagging manufacturing industries---brought about by short-sighted trade policies?
Btw, I find that Policy Matters Ohio has some excellent ideas.
You raise an interesting point. Perhaps we'd be better off doing a comparison between the Perrysburg-area and the Toledo-area in terms of the impact local politicians can have on a local economy. Both areas share in the general regional economy, but a comparison between these two adjacent areas would yeild a better answer to your question. imho.
I think general economic theory would be better than looking at a single example, imho
...in supposing that local elected officials have little impact on economics of an area, it's always better to take a more global view where the impact of such decisions are minimized.
However, if you really want a realistic examination of whether or not local decisions impact the economics of a city, the best comparison is to find multiple cities within a same region (where all cities/residents are experiencing the same global/state impacts) and then see if differing local policies or taxes, for example, result in different outcomes in terms of the success or failures of ventures/populations/growth/investment/ etc...
But, I'm not an economist, so that's just my two cents...
My point was to ask--what has a larger inpact on local economy? Is it mayors/city council/county commissioners, etc? Or is things that are more or less out of their control (gas prices, housing bubble, etc)? This area's economic woes have larger been attributed to the lost manufacturing jobs, due to NAFTA
There is so much more this area could be doing that they would not need to blame everything on NAFTA. All I hear is blame. Blame Columbus, blame China, blame NAFTA, but what I do not hear is anyone taking responsibility. We are tired of blame, we want action. Some people are not waiting and are leaving and it will continue until the blame game stops and we deal with the issues here.
You should read Toledo follow Jersey City thread:
http://swampbubbles.com/should_toledo_follow_jersey_city
The City turned around when there was new refreshing leadership. Schundler quit making excuses and took action. That is what we need.
Amazing how this thread has taken off.
ITS A FREAKING RADIO STATION PEOPLE! IT'S ONLY JOB IS TO SELL ADVERTISING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And gauging from the responses here, Brian has a coup on his hands with Arbitron!
Want a solution? Talk to your friends. You do have more than one, right? Well, talk to them, share insight, and encourage that friend to talk to another friend. You get enough people TALKING then the FEAR will dissipate!
Encourage a purge with the present system and start over. I know there are MANY younger politicans chewing at the bit for their chance, so just look past the Blade's "weighty" endorsements and vote FOR the COMMUNITY, not the Lucas County Democrat Party.
I thought their job was to return a good investment for their stock holders...
Which they don't.
http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=CCU&t=5y&l=on&z=m&q=l&c=
WSPD is not bad for Toledo, Brian Wilson is.
Well Hell, let's take him out back and beat the shit out of him!
Take a chill pill, ape shape. Brian down in sunny FL got it right - it's a radio station. It provides background noise in exchange for advertising dollars. In the rare event that someone at the station says something intelligent or thought provoking on the air - like, just for instance, Toledo is populated by apathetic political retards who can't come out of their boredom induced torpor long enough to fill out a ballot - a few local SIGS and overly reactive individuals on a caffeine buzz can add to their respective dental bills, call the station and thus reassure The Man that, yes, the transmitter really is working and that a few locals are listening.
Chill pill? Ape shape? I wasn't aware that our new poet laureate was here. Or is that "small L libertarian" code speak?
When has something "intelligent or thought provoking" ever escaped Wilson's mouth?
Hey we have got some serious problems here in our educational system and our city. I think we all want people who are going to address the problems and not hide behind superficial items such as awards/signs, registries, or blame LCIC organization leadership when they don’t have that much power over economic development and ignore peer office holders who are dropping the ball and making the situation worse. I think WSPD wants our elected officials to act in the best interest of the citizens, not the interests that get them elected. We complain about not being able to attract business and what does the city do? Create more rules and regulations. I am complaining right now about this. What is wrong? That is the fact. I bet if the City were to be bold and say, why don’t we try to decrease regulations and taxes things, the results would be surprising. But that would never happen because of the inbred governmental thought we have here and the us vs. them attitude. TPS is still not streaming their meetings over the Internet because I was the one to propose it (us vs. them and inbred thinking). We cannot ignore problems and if you say there is a problem, there is nothing wrong with that. Wanting to give group hugs and say everything is OK, is not going change Toledo’s fortunes (unlike other Ohio cities which had employment gains Toledo's unemployment rate increased). Superficial things do not affect change; they only gloss over what the problems are. Until we hear some leaders willing to address the root problems of a lousy business environment here, things are not going to change.
Also, watch what is said, in China when I was there, on TV everything would be positive, because the government did not want people talking about problems that may make them look bad. Sounds familiar……
Chico, WSPD is hardly a local phenomenon. Talk radio across the country is extremely "conservative" nowadays. From Wiki:
"The repeal of the FCC "fairness doctrine" in 1987—which had required that stations provide free air time for responses to any controversial opinions that were broadcast—provided an opportunity for a kind of partisan programming that had not previously existed."
"Two corollary rules of the doctrine, i.e., the "personal attack" rule and the "political editorial" rule, remained in practice until 2000. The "personal attack" rule applied whenever a person (or small group) was subject to a personal attack during a broadcast. Stations had to notify such persons (or groups) within a week of the attack, send them transcripts of what was said and offer the opportunity to respond on-the-air. The "political editorial" rule applied when a station broadcast editorials endorsing or opposing candidates for public office, and stipulated that the unendorsed candidates be notified and allowed a reasonable opportunity to respond.
The U.S. Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit, ordered the FCC to justify these corollary rules in light of the decision to repeal the Fairness Doctrine. The FCC did not provide prompt justification, and ultimately ordered their repeal in 2000."
Craig - if you can get any of these elected officials who've been criticized to come on air, that'd be great!!!
But I invited Ben Konop to come on air with me to talk about the LCIC. I asked specifically about coming on to talk about the search for a new executive director. He wouldn't even call to say 'no'.
Last week, I sent an email to him and then also called his assistant to request a public record. I asked if he could please provide the reference for some stats he quoted. Now - that's not controversial - it's just a reference. But I can't get a return email, phone call or anything.
So, I'd LOVE to have Ben come on the show - but he won't. If there's anything you could do so that WSPD listeners will have his side of the issue, I'd really appreciate that.
As to the Fairness Doctrine - yes, talk radio is primarily conservative. But most people who identify themselves from the middle to the right perceive print media and most major television news networks to be rather liberal in perspective. I've even heard some local people comment that talk radio is the 'balance' to the liberal viewpoints in the 'other' media.
It all depends upon your own personal perspective when it comes to impressions of 'fairness' or 'balance' in the media we utilize. That's why I'm glad I have the internet because I can get more perspectives than just what I can get from a limited local source.
I'd like to know more about his views on the LCIC as well, but I can understand why he would avoid WSPD. I hope you do get to square off with him on that issue. Maybe he would agree to discuss it in a less hostile environment?
As far as MSM being liberal, that is a myth that has never really been true and is less so now, more than ever. I, too, love the 'net!
Craig, they are making money off of it. If I remember Springer bombed in Cleveland, now Frantz is there. Air America bombed. If there was no market, they would not be doing it. They are not forcing it down our throat and besides what happened to freedom of speech? We also have freedom to listen. WSPD can say what ever they want.
Free markets don't translate well to terrestrial radio. When you hear people talk about the Fairness Doctrine, that's demand for non-conservative AM radio. There's demand, just no supply.
It was 5:21p when i first asked for positive 8:19p and i haven't seen one yet. I thought this blog would be full of them based on the tone of the people complaining. but instead more complaining and asking for my suggestions, even though they don't like what i say. very curious i'd say. as for trolling, i can do it whenever i want my boss isn't carty and won't stop me from gathering info from any number of sources.
since you couldn't come up with any positive suggestions for moving the city forward, try answering this one, it should keep you busy for awhile.
Since Toledo/ Lucas County have access to rail, air, port, I-75, and Ohio Turnpike why hasn't the city become the hub of transportation activity it has the potential to become? Discuss among yourselves, I already know the answer.
To Fred, Brian and Maggie,
Just keep on keepin on,
All of you do an excellent job on keeping us informed, and giving us a different view of this area's politics.
Kudos to all of you, and I will keep patronizing your sponsors and be a loyal listener(and proud of it).
Same goes for Glenn Beck. Having him here the last two days and getting his perspective of this sh*# hole we live in was a real eye opener
"Poison the airwaves"? C'mon, Chris and Chico. You're at liberty to speak, even if it does seem like rightwing nuttery. Partisan media is as old as colonial America.
As for public property and licensing -- which is how we consider the electromagnetic spectrum -- the public interest is still served. If you want more leftwing or even centrist views, there are more than enough broadcast frequencies available. Buy a license, transmit and speak your piece.
Since leftwing or centrist views seem to have little broadcast market value, such an approach promises failure. I'm the type of man who calculates such odds, and they don't seem good to me. But that's not the fault of some rightwing neo-conspiracy or government decree. It's just the culture. I'm frustrated by it too, but as I strongly value liberty (even the liberty to be a raving, militant member of the "Turd Right") I demand that broadcasters be left the hell alone. They bought the license, and set up their transmitters. If they choose to play "Toledo Rose" with their time, that's literally only their business.
There are zero AM frequencies available. The FCC is not even taking applications for them. None left.
And WSPD paid NOTHING for the broadcast license. They get it FREE under the condition of committing to serve the public interest. They are defined by law as a public trust.
I didn't know all that. If those are true, then the terms of the licensing should occupy our interest. Of course, this is all going to have to go through the Republican-controlled FCC. I don't foresee success, much like you really can't control corporations by their charters either.
How far do you'd think you'd get if you used the WSPD license terms to wrangle a slot in their programming for a leftwing opinion group?
chico - I don't believe for a minute that Brian Wilson or WSPD is negative about Toledo. Wilson often talks about it's good points - and yes, sometimes the show dwells on the negatives, the problems & issues - but those are what needs fixing. He could prattle on all day about our great zoo, the parks, etc. - who'd listen beyond an hour at most? All Toledoans know it's good points. We also tend to know most or all of it's bad points - but we don't always agree on how to fix them, or what caused them. Wilson has done a great pubic service I think. He lets the public know what he thinks - but it's usually what most other people are thinking as well. I've heard very little that I disagree with from Wilson's discussions. I can't say the same about Beck, but that's the great thing about having a brain - I can syphon out what I think is crap myself. I honestly don't understand why you think wspd & Brian Wilson are dragging Toledo down. If anything, I think Wilson's show has been a great shot in the arm.
brianinflorida said "Encourage a purge with the present system and start over. I know there are MANY younger politicans chewing at the bit for their chance, so just look past the Blade's "weighty" endorsements and vote FOR the COMMUNITY, not the Lucas County Democrat Party."
Sure there are, but the problem is, Toledoans keep on voting the same names in, or the elections are won simply by party affliation. Great example - the last election for sheriff in Lucas County. Telb has been sheriff forever, people keep voting him in. One of the men who ran for sheriff against him, knew all the real dirt that is going on under Telb's watch - he knows & has worked with Telb. He has a perfect record & is the most honest, moral, ethical, informed, educated in his field man I know. He was able to prove that Telb never alloted money for training his men, & that there was a lot of nepotism going on. He could prove so many horrible things about Telb, and the disaster waiting to happen jail. (I'm sure maggie knows who I'm talking about). This guy is not a politician - but he wanted to clean up the sheriff's dept & jail. It was a very close race, especially since this guy didn't have the money Telb did (he hated asking for donations). This guy is well known & highly respected in his field - and well liked. But he didn't have a chance of winning, because the unions always back the Democrat, and Telb snagged the Democrat label. Elections in Toledo are bought & paid for - in some way. If the person running doesnt get the union endorsement, he's history. Politics in Oregon, Ohio are just as rotten. The mayor owns everybody under her - God forbid you don't bow down to her whims - your job is gone. This just happened & I'm not at liberty to discuss it right now - but that sheriff election opened my eyes to how dirty local politics are.
When has something "intelligent or thought provoking" ever escaped Wilson's mouth?
Ok, wait a minute...
You could always invest in a transmitter and start your own pirate radio station.
Around election day, I tried listening to WSPD when they had the levy reps on and didn't like what I heard; therefore, I haven't had it on since. I think the "Voting for Theft and Slavery" message was the clincher. I choose to avoid the channel.
I was wondering how many listeners WSPD has? I don't mean some scientific, formulaic ratings mumbo jumbo but actual individuals. How many people actually listen to this station?
Why does it matter how many listeners they have? Since when does the number of listeners determine the validity of their arguments. Sounds more like you have an issue with how the material was presented. Did you take the time to understand the basis behind the hype? Or did you turn it off because they said something you did not like?
BTW - I did not buy their message about "voting for theft and slavery". I evaluated my vote on levies on a broader list of criteria. I actually thought about calling in to discuss the issue as their message and explanation was rather simplistic and in a representative democracy, i.e., republic, we vote for people that vote for taxes. So every time you vote for an elected representative you are voting for people that vote on your taxes. And WSPD thinks it is best if you get off your duff and vote - or maybe they only want like minded people to vote - but you can't have it both ways.
There are many examples where the public good is enhanced by public projects - but there should be certain criteria applied in deciding what would be within the province of "government". It is a little more complicated than the message they wanted us to accept.
Let’s see – if you don’t have a solution, but point out a problem you are negative.
If everyone waited until they had a solution, how many problems would be identified. This is another tactic many use to “shut people up” and intimidate them to silence.
I believe that people should offer up suggestions when they have them. But I don’t believe it to be a prerequisite in order to air your concerns.
Problem identification is the first step in solving the problem.
Some will undoubtedly not like the problem being discussed because of who brought it up or how it was presented. Frankly that has nothing to do with the legitimacy of the concern being identified.
I always separate the issue from the person. My concern is continual improvement and you can’t do that if you don’t open your eyes and understand the problems and obstacles in your path.
I’ll continue to listen to all sides and all sources. I may not be able to stand the drivel for long, but at least I know what is being said and hopefully why it is of concern.
As to WSPD, I think in general they have helped to open our eyes and suggested causes for the problems. Do I always agree with how they go about discussing the issue?
What was it maumeemom didnt' like? The fact that I refused to roll over and play dead for the levy proponents? Or Brians contention that by imposing taxes on him for things he doesn't use is theft? I'd love to hear your defense of either of these questions.
What I didn’t like about WSPD was the presentation. I thought the personalities practically yelled and felt that they bullied the people with whom they were speaking. I remember during one interview the guest was making a very sensible comment and was cut off because, IMO, it didn’t jive with the host’s views. I can’t remember who it was, the bus guy or the Librarian, but you took issue with the way they calculated their patrons. They basically counted transactions not individuals. You wanted the number of individuals? Well I have worked in a Library and know that what you were asking is impossible to quantify. That is why I asked about the number of individuals who listen to your station – there is no way that you could provide me with that number.
I felt that you twisted some of the levy reps remarks – which is what the media does - “spin” is not unheard of. I just choose not to fall for it.
The WSPD personalities also throw out “scary” terms in order to intimidate your listeners. I was offended by the “Slavery” comment and again, that is my opinion, but from talking to friends and family – I was not the only one.
I am a busy mom and have better things to do with my time than to listen to your station. I am intelligent enough to research issues and develop my own opinions, I don’t need someone else telling me how to think.
You have the right to your opinions and to use the radio as a vehicle to express said opinions – I am not taking that away from you. I have the right to my opinion and the right to use this public forum as my vehicle with which to express that opinion.
What I am doing is saying that your station does not fill a need for me and that I do not find it enjoyable; therefore, I choose to do something else with my time and will be avoiding WSPD.
I have answered your question yet you have not answered mine, Fred.
I asked how many INDIVIDUALS listen to your station. Please either provide a figure and site its source or admit that this is not quantifiable and you were asking for something from others that you yourself cannot provide.
Avoiding the question really harms your credibility.
Actually I think that you pursuing this hurts your credibility.
A radio station cannot actually count the number of listeners down to the single person, obviously because they cannot physically count them. On the other hand, a bus service (Tarta) or a Library could actually have a concrete way of doing this - because they customer is physically there using the service, and you can physically count them as they enter / exit........
Actually, people can access the Library via the net and you don't know how many individuals are sitting at the computer using that service. Therefore, you cannot get an accurate count of individuals.
How do you propose counting individuals on the bus? I really would like to know how this would be done in a timely and efficient manner. How would you count the individuals that utilize the library? It would be like asking Meijer’s to identify all the individuals who shop there – no one would ask them to do this.
There is no good way to do this and that is why they rely on numbers of transactions or numbers derived from scientific formulas which have been established by their industries. They get their numbers in much the same way that radio ratings are determined.
I asked my question again because Fred is good at chastising people for not answering him but has avoided answering my question.
Sorry, I wasn't really trying to get down to the fine details on this. My point was simply that you can actually construct a system to count something(albeit difficult to fashion) when it is present (except for your exceptions), as apposed to radio listeners whom you must estimate.
Over 12 hours now and not one positive suggestion from any of the people who complained that the station is negative. Where are all the great ideas to move the city forward? Or are you all satisfied with Toledo the way it is? It appears you are all guillty of what you accuse others of, all talk (negative about wspd) no real solutions. Too funny.
Where are all the great ideas to move the city forward?
Here is my 5 minute list....
WSPD can stop being so negative on Toledo.
Get Southwyck fixed up... The 43614 and 43615 area codes are some of the most affluent areas in Toledo; they must be maintained.
Get the MLK bridge fixed. Sue the company they has been fucking around with it for the last 10 years. They clearly don't know what they are doing.
Give a tax rebate for anyone who has lived in Toledo for more then X years. We could fill in the blanks with some number based on the budget.
Work with the rest of NW Ohio region to create synergies where they make since.
Now that the Democrats are back in charge of congress, have Marcy leverage her position and seniority to bring in more dollars for economic development.
WSPD can stop being so negative on Toledo.
(negative comment - when you couldnt come up with viable examples)
Get Southwyck fixed up... The 43614 and 43615 area codes are some of the most affluent areas in Toledo; they must be maintained.
(and you say the republicans pander to the rich???)
Get the MLK bridge fixed. Sue the company they has been fucking around with it for the last 10 years. They clearly don't know what they are doing.
(Gee - Fred says the same thing relatively regularly - are you being hateful or just pointing out a problem?)
Give a tax rebate for anyone who has lived in Toledo for more then X years. We could fill in the blanks with some number based on the budget.
(selective tax cuts? Who gets to make up the difference, the people we're asking to move BACK to Toledo? How about just cut EVERYONE's burden??
Work with the rest of NW Ohio region to create synergies where they make [sense].
(We cant - not with Carty's my way or the highway attitude)
Now that the Democrats are back in charge of congress, have Marcy leverage her position and seniority to bring in more dollars for economic development.
(Riiiiiiiiiight - dont anyone hold your breath. Anything from Comrade Kaptur comes with a string attatched - straight to the unions...)
Can I get you a napkin to wipe the Kool-Aid that is drooling off your chin?
You have no back up to your comments, and the examples you provided were either baseless, or in the case of the bridge, you actually SHARE the same opinion as fred, but if someone's not on your spoon fed list of approved people, it's all koolaid.
You're laughable.
I know you feel that you must defend your master, but all Fred did was ask:
Where are all the great ideas to move the city forward?
And I listed a few things off the top of my head that would move the city forward.I wasn't asked to "back up" by comments. I was asked for ideas.
When my toddler is done with his Sponge Bob reading comprehension workbook I'm sure he would lend it to you. We can erase the answers or not - if you need it to be easier...
Nah, you keep it Sensor - I'm sure that being 15 years old, and having an old man like you, your kid needs all the help he can get.
I knew that was a mistake mentioning your child in the first place in this 'debate.'
"Give a tax rebate for anyone who has lived in Toledo for more then
X years. We could fill in the blanks with some number based on the
budget.
(selective tax cuts? Who gets to make up the difference, the people
we're asking to move BACK to Toledo? How about just cut EVERYONE's
burden??"
That's actually an interesting idea. In the real world, retention bonuses are given to retain longterm customers. Instead of just giving rebates based on years, how about using a calculation that gives more weight to citizens who typically underutilize city services?
---------
"When I say your dumb name, please stand up briefly, but then quickly drop to your knees and forsake all others before me." -Ignignokt
The sad part is that very few would end up paying all the taxes because many young people want to move away from toledo (including myself). Doesn't really make sense to have this type of tax rebate when you can't get people to stay (because there are few good paying non-union jobs). Maybe they should consider this for businesses instead.........
"Now that the Democrats are back in charge of congress, have Marcy leverage her position and seniority to bring in more dollars for economic development."
Funniest comment yet! Because the Dem's have done SO MUCH in the two years off of their huge referendum. Let's view their progress.
1. Have they stopped the Iraq war?
2. Have they impeached Bush?
3. What significant legislation have they passed?
4. Did gas prices go down like they promised?
5. Where are their approval ratings today?
And finally you finish by suggesting more pork-barrel spending. Well I say go right ahead because it was that type of free spending that added to the Repub's defeat as anything else so spend away and try to hold on to power.
MikeyA
Actually they have accomplished quite a bit:
* The first minimum wage increase in a decade went into effect in July helping the lowest-paid workers. Republicans repeatedly blocked the pay hike when they controlled Congress.
* Republicans lost their majority in last November's elections largely because of the Iraq war, but also due to voter disgust with ethics violations that left some Republican lawmakers and aides in jail or under investigation. Democrats pushed through ethics and lobbying reforms that public advocacy groups applauded while also saying the provisions could have been stronger. Bush is expected to sign the bill into law.
* Congress passed, and Bush signed into law on Friday, a series of post-September 11 anti-terrorism steps that had been recommended by an independent commission in 2004. These include broader screening of cargo bound for the United States, allocating more federal grants to cities at high-risk of attack and improving emergency workers' communications systems so they can better coordinate during an attack or natural disaster.
* The House and Senate passed different versions of a bill to significantly expand child health insurance coverage for those in low-income families not poor enough to qualify for Medicaid. Bush has threatened to veto either version, but Democrats may be able to override him.
* The House and Senate passed bills to help students handle soaring college costs and crack down on misconduct in the student loan industry. They likely will send Bush a bill in September that goes directly to the stressed wallets of middle-class parents.
* A popular measure allowing broader stem cell research that supporters hope will help cure Parkinson's disease and other incurable illnesses was passed a second time and Bush vetoed it a second time.
* Appealing to growing consumer fears of global warming and U.S. reliance on foreign oil, the Senate passed a bill mandating that cars get 40 percent better fuel efficiency and encouraging a dramatic increase in ethanol as a fuel. Democrats hope to send Bush a bill after the August recess.
* A fiscal 2008 budget plan passed with new controls that attempt to impose fiscal responsibility after years of huge budget deficits. Under the plan, any new tax cuts or spending increases would have to be paid for. Republicans complain there is no guarantee Bush's tax cuts will be renewed