I’m not in the business, so my comments reflect only my observations and opinions. I appreciate that many here know radio inside and out. I am, however, someone who loved radio. Unfortunately, I rarely listen anymore.
I don't think that being competent at news is mutually exclusive with being entertaining. A station does not need 24/7 news reading to be a good source. Top and bottom of the hour news fed by strong reporting is very sufficient (and of course breaking in when something happens). The rest of the time can be talk. It works well for stations like WGN in Chicago.
Unfortunately, the local CC stations don't have the resources to respond to breaking news. Using callers as ad hock reporters does not get it done, at least not very well.
As far as Baker, I think that he could be very good. He is just too stuck on playing the Neanderthal shtick. It all seems very contrived to me. Maybe I am wrong.
I don't think that being competent at news is mutually exclusive with being entertaining. A station does not need 24/7 news reading to be a good source. Top and bottom of the hour news fed by strong reporting is very sufficient (and of course breaking in when something happens). The rest of the time can be talk. It works well for stations like WGN in Chicago.
Unfortunately, the local CC stations don't have the resources to respond to breaking news. Using callers as ad hock reporters does not get it done, at least not very well.
As far as Baker, I think that he could be very good. He is just too stuck on playing the Neanderthal shtick. It all seems very contrived to me. Maybe I am wrong.