TV On Tuesday

I had a rare night off from work without a hockey game on the agenda so I spent the evening kicking back and relaxing in front of the tv. As luck would have it, ESPN debuted their one-hour documentary, King's Ransom, about the Wayne Gretzky trade.

Now, my personal sentiment is that the deal set the NHL on the path of doom - it precipitated the first wave of expansion, which brought Bettman ... and, let's face it, he has steadily stuck the knife in the sport ever since. But that's just my opinion.

The documentary wasn't ESPN's worse work, it wasn't their best. It had that slick over-produced ESPN look to it complete with the staged overly-sentimental, well-lit shots of Gretz walking around an empty Western Forum. ESPN, being ESPN, they had full access to all the relevant archived video and all of the major players in the drama - even Glen Sather. And Sather sounded like he cared - who knew? He certainly shows no passion nowadays when it comes to Rangers. But was it me or did they make Pocklington look like the victim?

I didn't learn anything I didn't already know, but it was nice to see hockey given primetime airtime on a real network. I still don't think that viewers can fully grasp the impact that the deal had in Canada - even with the old man-on-the-street interviews - and maybe even the impact that it had here in the States. Janet was given a chance to respond to her critics but I remember as a kid hearing that she was the main reason Wayne left Edmonton, ahead of the greedy and incompetent Pocklington.

After watching the 30 in 30, I turned over to Versus to see the Flyers/Caps. Some observations:

*The Rangers don't have nearly the amount of talent that either team has, but the Blueshirt crease is better cared for by Hank than by either of their netminders. It should make for some interesting games down the line.

*Tom Poti scored a great goal. For the Flyers. Hahahahahahahahaha. And then he turned away from the puck to swing his purse at someone and the game-winner was scored in OT. I hate you Poti!!!!

*It was strange seeing Blair Betts in orange, and wearing No. 11 to boot. Damn shame he won't be donning a jersey for a month or so since he dislocated his shoulder late in the third. Get well soon Bettsy!

*Something hilarious about seeing "Welcome To Comcast Country" during the Versus broadcast.

*Nothing intentionally amusing or even redeeming about the telecast itself. I was in Newark on Monday so this was my first Versus game and the ads are constant and obnoxious and nothing I would ever, ever tune in to.

*I tuned out the intermission report. It seems that the producer told that collection of incompetent cast-offs to amp up the emotion and controversy and it certainly made them more annoying and more obnoxious - if that is even possible.

When the game ended in OT I flipped over to NHL on the Fly to watch the hilite of same game I watched in HD replayed in SD. That's sad. The NHL spent money to 'upgrade' their set (if you can call it an upgrade) but kept their same outdated equipment. Sad.

 TV On Tuesday: The Evolution of Television Entertainment

Television has been a cornerstone of entertainment for decades, captivating audiences with a diverse array of shows, series, and programs. "TV On Tuesday" is a phrase that embodies the anticipation and excitement that viewers feel as they tune in to their favorite shows on a Tuesday evening. In this article, we will explore the evolution of television entertainment on Tuesdays, from the early days of broadcast to the era of streaming services. We'll also address frequently asked questions (FAQs) that shed light on the world of television and its enduring popularity.

The History of Television on Tuesdays

The Golden Age of Television

Television first entered American homes in the 1930s and '40s, with Tuesday nights quickly becoming a prime time for broadcast. Shows like "The Milton Berle Show" and "I Love Lucy" became staples of Tuesday night television, drawing large audiences and setting the stage for the medium's growth.

The Influence of Networks

Television networks played a significant role in shaping Tuesday night programming. CBS, NBC, and later ABC competed fiercely for viewers' attention, leading to the development of iconic shows like "Happy Days," "Laverne & Shirley," and "The A-Team."

The Impact of Cable Television

The rise of cable television in the 1980s brought additional diversity to Tuesday night programming. Cable channels like MTV, USA Network, and Comedy Central introduced new genres and formats, further expanding viewers' choices.

The Streaming Revolution

In recent years, the advent of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video has revolutionized how we consume television content. Tuesday nights are no longer limited to traditional TV schedules, as viewers can now binge-watch their favorite shows at their convenience.

Notable Tuesday Night Shows

"Friends"

The iconic sitcom "Friends" initially aired on Thursday nights but found immense success in syndication on Tuesday evenings. It remains a beloved classic that continues to attract new generations of fans.

"This Is Us"

The critically acclaimed drama series "This Is Us" has become a Tuesday night favorite, known for its emotional storytelling and relatable characters.

"The Voice"

Reality competition shows like "The Voice" have found success on Tuesday nights, engaging viewers with their talent showcases and audience participation.

FAQs: Navigating the World of Television

As television entertainment continues to evolve, questions often arise about the industry, its impact, and the ways in which viewers can access their favorite shows. Here are some FAQs that provide insights into the world of television:

1. How has the rise of streaming services changed television viewing habits?

The rise of streaming services has allowed viewers to watch content on-demand, eliminating the need to adhere to traditional TV schedules. This has led to the binge-watching phenomenon and increased flexibility in viewing habits.

2. Are traditional TV networks still relevant in the age of streaming?

Traditional TV networks remain relevant but are adapting to the changing landscape by offering online streaming platforms and on-demand options.

3. What are some of the challenges facing the television industry today?

The television industry faces challenges related to competition from streaming services, changing viewer preferences, and the need to create original and compelling content.

4. How do television networks decide which shows to air on Tuesday nights?

Television networks consider factors like target demographics, competition from other networks, and production schedules when scheduling shows for Tuesday nights.

5. What role does advertising play in television programming?

Advertising revenue is a significant source of funding for television networks. Advertisers often pay for commercial slots during prime time to reach a wide audience.

"TV On Tuesday" reflects the enduring appeal of television as a source of entertainment, information, and cultural significance. From the early days of broadcast television to the current era of streaming services, the medium has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs and preferences of viewers.

As we navigate the diverse landscape of television programming on Tuesday nights, we celebrate the storytelling, creativity, and innovation that have shaped this medium. Whether we're tuning in to catch the latest episode of a beloved series or exploring new content on streaming platforms, television remains a powerful and influential force in our lives. So, as we continue to enjoy the entertainment that Tuesday nights bring, we look forward to the next chapter in the ever-evolving world of television.

Advice To File Away

Luckily next year we won't be subjected to the awfulness that is the Versus All Star Skills experience due to the Olympics, but here is some advice for the network (or, hopefully, their replacements) for the 2011 broadcast:

*The biggest thing is that less is more. Less replays, less camera angles, less graphics, less announcers.

*On that last note, Versus has gotten it right by mic'ing players. Marc Savard did a much, much better job giving colour and insight than Brian Engblom did. Engblom was completely useless and got in the way of Doc calling the action. One of the best parts of the skills is that the players are out on the ice actually having fun. Letting them talk actually shows that these guys have personality and only helps sell the game. Listening to Engblom does not.

*When players like Zdeno Chara do something wonderful - like putting up their own money to make their event more exciting and charitable - it is the broadcaster's job to tell you that it is happening but not after the fact. Listening to Engblom and Doc go back and forth trying to figure out how much money was actually given to Right To Play as Chara was getting the trophy was infuriating. It was probably the best story to come out of the night and it should have been bandied about throughout the telecast or at least previewed with a short feature interviewing the players involved.

*An aside - as a friend pointed out to me, it would be nice if the entire ASG was for charity. Like NHL players need the extra stipends? But while that would never happen, the league itself should partner with the NHLPA to at least put money on the line for the YoungStars exhibition. Any kind of motivation would be nice as the kids clearly were out there killing time playing a boring game of shinny.

*Speaking of the YoungStars, if the rules stay the same - running time, six minute periods - then the host broadcaster would do well to actually save the replays for the breaks. Yes, it is common sense but the production clowns at Versus clearly doesn't have any as they missed half of the action and several of the goals.

*Trying to be fancy with tons of cameras also ends up in lost action. Versus made the mistake in using unorthodox angles to show the breakaway competition. It's cool to see the ice-level action, but that is what replays are for. Using the usual high-center ice game angle to show the live action would show just how different or special these plays are compared to the normal run-of-the-mill shootout attempts.

*What happened to the pin camera inside the targets for replays in the accuracy competition? It was always cool to see the puck coming right at the camera. Or did McDonalds not allow that this year?

*For the hardest shot competition, a ice-level super-slo-mo camera would have been perfect to show the sheer power of the shooters. Here is a simple fact: things look cool in super slow motion. There is an entire awesome show dedicated to that on the Discovery Channel.

*Hire a professional to man the audio boards. Whoever Versus had did a terrible job jockeying the levels and us fans at home paid the price. The audio tech would jarringly open and close mics so you didn't really hear what was going on. During the intros, we caught the ovation for Vinny04 but missed most of the boos for Kaberle and the Bruins.

*Getting back to the announcer part, do you really need to have talent talking during the breakaway contests? Just so they can go "wow," or explain what you just saw? Why not just keep the arena and player mics on so the television feel like they are there? Like I need Engblom telling me, "look, he's using props" as Ovie puts on a hat? I can see that, thanks. I would rather hear the players on the benches asking 'what the hell is he doing now' or something to that effect.

*And this is more for the league than for the broadcaster, but enough with the live rock music. The players are the spectacle, as you can see from the pic at the top of this post. We don't need some random woman who can hardly sing butchering rock classics with some organist playing like he is in Amadeus.

But whatever, as I said, this is just some thoughts to file away as there will be no All Star Game next year. Instead we will get to see the best players in the game actually trying as they play for national pride in the Olympics. That will be great and you can be assured that NBC, who didn't want the ASG, will handle them better than Versus handled Montreal.

Advice to File Away: Timeless Wisdom for a Meaningful Life

Life is a journey filled with experiences, challenges, and moments of profound learning. Along the way, we encounter advice from various sources, including family, friends, mentors, and even strangers. Some of this advice resonates deeply and stands the test of time, becoming a guiding light in our lives. In this article, we'll explore timeless wisdom – advice to file away for a more meaningful life.

The Value of Wisdom

Wisdom is often defined as the ability to make sound judgments based on knowledge, experience, and good judgment. It's the practical application of accumulated knowledge and insights, and it can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful existence. Here are some pieces of timeless advice to consider filing away for future reference:

1. Embrace Change

"The only constant in life is change."

Change is an inevitable part of life. It can be challenging and unsettling, but it's also an opportunity for growth and transformation. Embracing change allows us to adapt, learn, and evolve, ultimately leading to personal development and new experiences.

2. Live in the Present

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift – that's why it's called the present."

While planning for the future is essential, living in the present moment is equally crucial. Many of life's most precious moments occur in the here and now. Practicing mindfulness and appreciating the present can enhance our overall well-being.

3. Cultivate Gratitude

"Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings." - William Arthur Ward

Gratitude is a powerful practice. It shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. Cultivating gratitude fosters contentment, reduces stress, and improves our overall outlook on life.

4. Pursue Your Passions

"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." - Howard Thurman

Following your passions and doing what you love brings fulfillment and purpose to your life. It can lead to a career that feels like a calling and a life that is deeply meaningful.

5. Learn from Failure

"I have failed again and again throughout my life. That's why I've been successful." - Michael Jordan

Failure is not the opposite of success; it's a part of the journey toward success. Embrace failure as a valuable teacher, a source of resilience, and an opportunity for growth.

6. Prioritize Relationships

"The quality of your life is in direct proportion to the quality of your relationships." - Tony Robbins

While achievements and possessions can bring temporary happiness, it's our relationships with others that provide lasting joy and fulfillment. Invest time and effort in nurturing your connections with family, friends, and loved ones.

7. Be Kind

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." - Aesop

Kindness has a ripple effect. It not only brightens someone else's day but also brings warmth and happiness to your own. Small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the world.

8. Take Care of Your Health

"To keep the body in good health is a duty...otherwise, we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear." - Buddha

Good health is the foundation for a fulfilling life. Prioritize self-care, exercise, and a balanced diet to ensure you have the energy and vitality to pursue your passions and dreams.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How do I apply this wisdom in my daily life?

Wisdom is most powerful when put into action. Start by reflecting on these pieces of advice and identifying ways to incorporate them into your daily routines and decision-making.

2. Can you learn wisdom from others, or is it gained solely through personal experience?

Wisdom can be learned from others, especially from mentors, books, and life experiences shared by others. However, personal experiences often deepen our understanding and application of wisdom.

3. Are there any specific practices for cultivating wisdom?

Yes, practices like journaling, meditation, and seeking guidance from wise individuals can help you cultivate wisdom over time.

4. Is wisdom a product of age?

While age and life experience can contribute to wisdom, it's not solely determined by them. Wisdom can be found in people of all ages.

5. What should I do if I encounter conflicting advice?

It's common to receive conflicting advice, as people's perspectives and experiences differ. When faced with conflicting guidance, consider your own values and priorities to make the best decision for your unique situation.

Timeless advice is a source of guidance and inspiration that can help us navigate the complexities of life. These words of wisdom remind us to embrace change, live in the present, cultivate gratitude, pursue our passions, learn from failure, prioritize relationships, be kind, and take care of our health. While it's essential to remain open to new insights and perspectives, these enduring principles can serve as valuable signposts on our journey to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Horrific

That is the only way one can describe the All Stars skills broadcast on Versus right now. It may be the worst telecast of a sporting event I have ever seen, which includes the disgraceful display that Versus made with indoor lacrosse a few years back. The camerawork is poor, the directing is terrible, they are missing live action for bad-angle replays, they are not showing some replays, the ugly graphics promoting non-hockey garbage are everywhere, the announcers are doing a poor job (sorry Doc) ... wow is this awful.

If the NHL thinks they are going to sell the sport this way, they are sorely mistaken.

Well, It's My Day Off ...

So, of course, I am thinking about work. But being as I work in television and the main topic of this blog is hockey, a concurrence of matters isn't a bad thing.

What is on my mind is the possibility of the NHL picking ESPN to dance with yet again, after spurning it to dance with the ugly new kid in school (Versus). Granted the league is going back on its knees begging, pleading and likely doing more things carnal in nature, it is a good move but there should be some mandated elements to how ESPN can broadcast the game.

First off, hockey broadcasts now are very regimented - open at the top of the hour, commerical breaks soon after the periods' 15 and 5 minute mark (barring delays) and then usually three breaks during the intermission - one going in, one in the middle and one going out. And you know what, that's fine - leave it. Just don't start trying to shoehorn more advertising into the game itself. The score bug doesn't need to include the logo of McDonalds or Michelin or whatever.

And for that matter, the bug should not cover any more than 10% of the screen. Versus had that monstrous bug banner that covered the top, then would plug in lower thirds over score crawls so almost the entire picture was covered with crap that wasn't the game you tuned into (sorry I don't have any pictures but if you watched, you know what I am talking about). Game bugs should have the score and time, and that's it.

As for the actual shots of the game, the standard classic camera is the best. It has worked for all these years so directors with itchy trigger fingers shouldn't feel obligated to show tight shots of defensemen with the puck and then lose the play as he sends a breakout pass up-ice. Goal-cams are great for replays but never, ever should be used for live action. Depth of field is lost and its even harder than normal to follow the puck. Rail cam was a nice experiment but you couldn't really follow the play all that well and it blocked the view of people in the building so toss that away. Its great to have a ton of angles for replays, but don't screw with the game action.

Now for the audio - turn up the mics. The sounds of the game are unique and spectacular. From the scrapes of skates on ice and puck on post to the cursing of the players and the jeers of the crowd, the sounds of the game are unique and spectacular and help give viewers a feeling like they are there and we all know that seeing hockey in person is the quickest way to sell someone on the game. And something I have been advocating is the use of the SAP feature or something of its ilk to allow viewers to just listen to the game and not have to hear the commentary. Most sports should have this ...

To also help get people into the game, ESPN should also be forced to bring back NHL2nite. Versus never properly supported their coverage with nightly highlight shows that package up the magic into a half hour setting. There is no way fans get to see all of the top plays from the games they want in Sportscenter - hockey just isn't the cash cow that football, NASCAR, baseball, basketball is in North America. Plus it would be good to get some opinions and analysis again, rather than just being stuck with Brian Engblom in between periods.

Now some people would advocate for a return of the John Buccigross and Barry Melrose but I don't think so. I want Jeremy Roenick and a straight man who knows something about hockey. Bill Pidto was fine as the original host of the show, why not him again? Bucci is a fan of the game but he inserted himself and his music taste into his work and that was quite annoying. Melrose is a nice guy and at times gives good knowledge but he is very vanilla and I don't care what he has to say about players today - he wasn't the greatest player, he wasn't he greatest coach and he looks the same way he did when Patrick Roy made Gretz his bitch back in '93. Melrose will say whatever the producer tells him to say (I know that for a fact) and rarely steps out on a limb. Roenick is a loose cannon and that makes him exciting. And someone like that paired with a good straight man/foil makes for good tv - look at Hockey Night In Canada.

The league should also require a return of the theme song, which was solid. It stood out and was instantly recognizable, even if a knock off of the greatest. It is all about bringing the brand back and pretending that the lockout never happened (as the owners are already doing, giving these idiotic contracts out left and right - five years to Dustin Penner!).

ESPN has unfortunately become the primary source of sports information in America - beyond the local newspapers and tv stations - and their policy is to promote the hell out of whatever they have their hands in and ignore the rest. When hockey went to Versus they did their best to ignore the league when they couldn't find cause to berate it.

But beyond the huge shadow that the ugly corporate ESPN machine has cast over hockey, we should do our best to get the game back there if only because there were good people there, who did some good work and (occasionally) managed to capture the best the game had to offer, even in the darkest of times:

A Return To The Great Satan?

The NHL and ESPN are in discussions about bringing the league’s games back to ESPN2 as soon as the 2008-09 season. The full article is here.

Read it, its interesting.

My opinion? Sure, why not. More publicity for the league would be good, right? Although it the NHL was to return to ESPN I might be temped into returning to ESPN to work on the show and lord knows I don't want that. But seriously, having hockey on Versus has been nearly as bad an experiment as Sports Channel was (or so I am told, I was only watching games on MSG back then).

I do know that Versus has put in a half-assed effort from day one. Their studio shows were poor, their game broadcasts left much to be desired and their graphics were abominable. Once Versus lost their bid for NFL games, they collected as much random crap as they could and surrounded the NHL with it - knockoff mixed martial arts, lacrosse, indoor soccer, etc. But the network didn't even treat the NHL as its top product - that remained rodeo, and how can any fan of major sports take that seriously?? So I guess ESPN is the lesser of two evils? *shudder*