Frank Boal (L) and Jack Harry enjoy a laugh at the KC Press Club event. (Photo credit: Dick Nelson)
If there was one overriding message in the address by veteran TV sports anchors Frank Boal and Jack Harry to the Kansas City Press Club Thursday evening it was they both feel very lucky to have spent about a total of 70 years in the Kansas City market.
And it likely will never happen again.
The duo, who are now both with KSHB, pointed out that the industry has changed dramatically and stations are bringing in younger—and cheaper–talent. And that talent will be moving to larger markets rather than staying in KC.
Harry and Boal also said pro sports teams are clamping down on how they are covered and access to practices and players is very much controlled today compared to years ago. In fact, Harry noted until this year reporters had to get permission to use the restroom by team officials at Arrowhead.
Overall, about 30 media professionals peppered the two with questions and it proved to be a fun-filled and enlightening evening.
WINNING PRESS CLUB PROGRAM
Hey, great report, John, on the Press Club meeting earlier this evening at the Westport Flea Market Bar & Grill. I don’t believe I brought any fleas home with me, just some good memories of an evening well spent with fellow journalists – still working, retired or semi-retired. The specialty-of-the-house hamburger was delicious, although I’m still partial to the hamburgers at Homer’s up in Leavenworth, recently the site of some filming for the movie “Jayhawkers” that will delve into the Phog Allen-Wilt Chamberlain connection at KU.
Anyway, Jack and Frank delivered an admirable presentation in discussing various aspects of the changes journalists are encountering these days in their efforts to adequately cover the wide world of sports on the local level. All in all, it was a winner!
HOW ABOUT WEATHER GUYS?
Now let’s have a weather meet with guys from 4, 5, 9, 41… Would be interesting for sure !