A gloomy Thursday for the City of Abilene...for those of us that ventured outside, that was easy to see. However, for 1200 Abilenians, it was a "gloomy" day aside from the weather.
Three days without pay for all city personnel. While some employees may have seen something, like today's news coming for some time now, it's still not what anyone wanted to hear.
City Management says they hope to save $600,000 from the furlough days, only problem being that $600,000 can only be saved if ALL 1200 employees actually have those days off. City Manager, Larry Gilley implied today that some City positions might not be able to have those days off because the City of Abilene is focused on providing the Citizens of Abilene with the highest quality of service. As the City states in its mission statement,"We work together to build a community of the highest quality for present and future generations."
While, we say 1200 employees are affected by the City's financial situation, it's really much more than that. It's 1200 people plus all of their family members. It's hard to imagine just how many people will feel an impact from the pay cuts. It's unfortunate to know that for so long, we said Abilene was safe from the state of the nation's economy, but as City Councilman, Robert Briley said in my interview earlier today, it was basically just a matter of time until we felt the effects here in the Abilene community.
It's easy to speculate being an outsider, not a City employee but I also got to thinking how difficult it must be to be on the City Management end. I cannot imagine having to tell 1200 people that they'll have to take three days off this year and they won't be getting paid for it. It couldn't have been easy, and while it's been described as a "bump in the road by some," it does make you wonder if things can get worst.
When I read about other cities throughout the country, many have already had to fire City employees to put a dent in their communities debt. In that sense, it sounds like we are still pretty lucky here in Abilene. But, at the same time because it doesn't sound too likely that the City will save the hopeful $600,000 (because some employees will have to work) on those furlough days, the City could be facing some future problems.
City Management says that a reduction in force would only be a last resort for the City of Abilene, as they've expressed before. However, it wasn't too long ago that the City of Abilene issued a "hiring freeze," where some retiring positions were not filled by new personnel. Instead, other employees were forced to step in to fill the job requirements. And we can't forget the Abilene Police Department and Abilene Fire Department, who agreed to postpone their pay raises for six months.
What do you have to say about everything?
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Monday, January 18, 2010
Behind the Scenes:Video Blog
I finally tackled the video blog. It's been a long time coming...but I figured what better video blog from me...than a "behind the scenes" post. Of course, there is even a lot more that goes on behind the scenes than this video sequence...but I think you get the idea. Enjoy it. If you have any questions or anything more you'd like to see inside the wonderful world of KRBC News, let me know. I'd love to do another video blog.
P.S. I did the taping for this video blog during lunch hour, when the newsroom is actually a pretty quiet place. Had we shot this around 4 o'clock, you'd have gotten the true chaotic, adrenaline-pumping experience.
I just want to give a special, "THANK YOU," to our Chief Photographer, Andrew Carlson who shot this whole blog for me! : ) He's pretty awesome!
P.S. I did the taping for this video blog during lunch hour, when the newsroom is actually a pretty quiet place. Had we shot this around 4 o'clock, you'd have gotten the true chaotic, adrenaline-pumping experience.
I just want to give a special, "THANK YOU," to our Chief Photographer, Andrew Carlson who shot this whole blog for me! : ) He's pretty awesome!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
"Looking for some Late-Night fun"
"Looking for some Late-Night fun," that's the status update that was posted to my grandmother's facebook account.
Yes, I am bringing you another grandmother story, (if you haven't already read Stephanie's blog post...then you have to take the time to do so...that tops the list).
But, I decided to blog about my recent facebook finding. Now, if you're a true facebooker, like myself you find the time to check people's status updates...you know, you want to know what your friends and and family members are up to. Well, I got quite the shock when I saw, "look for some late-night fun" was posted next to my grandmother's name on facebook, for all the Internet world to see.
First off, my grandmother (no matter how technologically savvy she is) does not post status updates...nonetheless would she ever type something along those lines for everyone to see. So, I gave her a call to ask her how facebook was treating her. And she was like, I haven't been on in weeks...and I said, well...your facebook status says you've been looking for a little late night fun these days. She was pretty shocked but laughed off the whole thing.
I decided to blog about it because it made me sad to know that someone must've gotten into her account, and just in general about these computer hackers and Internet virus' sent out all of the time. My Grandmother's case is obviously a very minor one compared to all of the hackers that get passwords to bank accounts and steal identities.
While most of my Grandmother's friends (via facebook) know that she would never post a comment like that, on a smaller scale...it still had to have caused some embarrassment. After all, she does have grand-kids, nieces, nephews that are a lot younger and might get the wrong idea. My grandmother of course took the whole thing lightly and laughed about it.
It really got me to thinking though, how scary of a place the Internet can be.
Yes, I am bringing you another grandmother story, (if you haven't already read Stephanie's blog post...then you have to take the time to do so...that tops the list).
But, I decided to blog about my recent facebook finding. Now, if you're a true facebooker, like myself you find the time to check people's status updates...you know, you want to know what your friends and and family members are up to. Well, I got quite the shock when I saw, "look for some late-night fun" was posted next to my grandmother's name on facebook, for all the Internet world to see.
First off, my grandmother (no matter how technologically savvy she is) does not post status updates...nonetheless would she ever type something along those lines for everyone to see. So, I gave her a call to ask her how facebook was treating her. And she was like, I haven't been on in weeks...and I said, well...your facebook status says you've been looking for a little late night fun these days. She was pretty shocked but laughed off the whole thing.
I decided to blog about it because it made me sad to know that someone must've gotten into her account, and just in general about these computer hackers and Internet virus' sent out all of the time. My Grandmother's case is obviously a very minor one compared to all of the hackers that get passwords to bank accounts and steal identities.
While most of my Grandmother's friends (via facebook) know that she would never post a comment like that, on a smaller scale...it still had to have caused some embarrassment. After all, she does have grand-kids, nieces, nephews that are a lot younger and might get the wrong idea. My grandmother of course took the whole thing lightly and laughed about it.
It really got me to thinking though, how scary of a place the Internet can be.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Burrr...it's cold in Abilene!
Brrrr...it's cold in Abilene!
"Feels like 7 degrees," says meteorologist Chris Whited from the warm KRBC studio this morning. I was standing by outside at the intersection of Southwest and Clack, I'll tell you it felt colder than that, Chris.
Each time, we bring you live coverage in the early morning hours to warn you and help you prepare for your day...I'll run into people around town last that day that say, "I was watching you on TV and I felt so bad watching you stand there in the cold". I really do appreciate how caring viewers are. While, we do have to stand outside in the below freezing temperature for a few minutes at a time, we are happy that (thanks to technology) we can bring you the the latest road conditions and scenarios around town...in hopes of keeping you safe.
In between each LIVE shot, we are getting warm and toasty inside of our LIVE truck.
Days like today really make me wonder what it's like being a reporter in even colder states and crazier weather, such as hurricanes. I really admire those reporters (that sometimes even risk their lives) to keep their communities informed and safe.
While I spent most of the morning talking about road conditions around town, I still want to stress the importance of dressing warmly. Sometimes, when you first walk out of the house...it doesn't feel too bad. However, after being out in the cold, even walking in and out of store...it is brisk. I stocked up on warmers for my hands and feet last night at Walmart...and they worked like a charm. I highly recommend them. Also, I recommend packing blankets and other "keeping warm" items so that if you ever were to get into a car accident in this frigid weather...you'd be able to keep yourself warm until you get help. May seem like a little over-doing it...but the way I look at it is better safe than sorry.
Anyways, I hope everyone stays nice and warm over the next few days! Thanks for visiting my blog! : )
"Feels like 7 degrees," says meteorologist Chris Whited from the warm KRBC studio this morning. I was standing by outside at the intersection of Southwest and Clack, I'll tell you it felt colder than that, Chris.
Each time, we bring you live coverage in the early morning hours to warn you and help you prepare for your day...I'll run into people around town last that day that say, "I was watching you on TV and I felt so bad watching you stand there in the cold". I really do appreciate how caring viewers are. While, we do have to stand outside in the below freezing temperature for a few minutes at a time, we are happy that (thanks to technology) we can bring you the the latest road conditions and scenarios around town...in hopes of keeping you safe.
In between each LIVE shot, we are getting warm and toasty inside of our LIVE truck.
Days like today really make me wonder what it's like being a reporter in even colder states and crazier weather, such as hurricanes. I really admire those reporters (that sometimes even risk their lives) to keep their communities informed and safe.
While I spent most of the morning talking about road conditions around town, I still want to stress the importance of dressing warmly. Sometimes, when you first walk out of the house...it doesn't feel too bad. However, after being out in the cold, even walking in and out of store...it is brisk. I stocked up on warmers for my hands and feet last night at Walmart...and they worked like a charm. I highly recommend them. Also, I recommend packing blankets and other "keeping warm" items so that if you ever were to get into a car accident in this frigid weather...you'd be able to keep yourself warm until you get help. May seem like a little over-doing it...but the way I look at it is better safe than sorry.
Anyways, I hope everyone stays nice and warm over the next few days! Thanks for visiting my blog! : )
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
New Years in Abilene
It's just a day away...New Years Eve. Now if you're like me you still haven't quite figured out your plans to bring in the New Year. I've heard of several people heading to the Metroplex for some final 2009 celebrating...However, I have found out that there are several fun options around town. Here are some ideas, just to name a few.
Let's start with the overnight packages at some of our Abilene hotels. The Hilton Garden Inn is having a PARTY! If you want the "getaway feel" but don't want to travel. Rest assured...you can get it at the Hilton. For $199.95 per couple, you can get a room, dinner for two, breakfast, admission to the party and dancing (with TNT Mobile DJ), four cocktails included, and the rest at happy hour prices all night long. The Hilton will also be bringing in a TV for everyone to watch the ball drop!
And if you're single and looking to mingle, don't let the couple pkg turn you off. After 9 o'clock, you can get into the party for $10, which does include your first beverage.
The MCM Elegante is also hosting a New Year's Eve "Stay with us" package. For $189 per couple, you get a two-room suite, an evening reception from 5:30 to 7, a buffet dinner for two (from 7-8:30), a dance (featuring Taylor Made) which begins at 8:30 and goes until midnight, party favors, a Champagne toast at midnight, and a full cooked to order breakfast on New Years day. *Let it be known that this NYE party is also themed...80's style!
And if you're not looking for a place to stay but just a place to party. You've got several choices.
For those of you wanting a fancier night out. The Warehouse Downtown is a martini bar, and on New Year's Eve night you can get in for $20 a person, which includes a champagne toast. And if you're wanting a "bigger city" night life experience, you can even get VIP tables and bottle service (price ranging depending on size of party) You can call the Warehouse at (325) 675-9644 for more information. That party begins at 8 and goes until midnight. This is a 21 and up party.
The Lucky Mule Saloon is having another party on the South side of town. You can get in for $10 at the door and expect a $500 balloon drop. The DJ will be playing the best in country and top 40/hiphop. They're even staying open an hour later (closing their bars at midnight but dancing at 1 am). This is an 18 and up party.
So for those of you wanting a night out on the town...hope the above ideas can help out! Hope everyone has a happy, healthy, and safe New Year!
Let's start with the overnight packages at some of our Abilene hotels. The Hilton Garden Inn is having a PARTY! If you want the "getaway feel" but don't want to travel. Rest assured...you can get it at the Hilton. For $199.95 per couple, you can get a room, dinner for two, breakfast, admission to the party and dancing (with TNT Mobile DJ), four cocktails included, and the rest at happy hour prices all night long. The Hilton will also be bringing in a TV for everyone to watch the ball drop!
And if you're single and looking to mingle, don't let the couple pkg turn you off. After 9 o'clock, you can get into the party for $10, which does include your first beverage.
The MCM Elegante is also hosting a New Year's Eve "Stay with us" package. For $189 per couple, you get a two-room suite, an evening reception from 5:30 to 7, a buffet dinner for two (from 7-8:30), a dance (featuring Taylor Made) which begins at 8:30 and goes until midnight, party favors, a Champagne toast at midnight, and a full cooked to order breakfast on New Years day. *Let it be known that this NYE party is also themed...80's style!
And if you're not looking for a place to stay but just a place to party. You've got several choices.
For those of you wanting a fancier night out. The Warehouse Downtown is a martini bar, and on New Year's Eve night you can get in for $20 a person, which includes a champagne toast. And if you're wanting a "bigger city" night life experience, you can even get VIP tables and bottle service (price ranging depending on size of party) You can call the Warehouse at (325) 675-9644 for more information. That party begins at 8 and goes until midnight. This is a 21 and up party.
The Lucky Mule Saloon is having another party on the South side of town. You can get in for $10 at the door and expect a $500 balloon drop. The DJ will be playing the best in country and top 40/hiphop. They're even staying open an hour later (closing their bars at midnight but dancing at 1 am). This is an 18 and up party.
So for those of you wanting a night out on the town...hope the above ideas can help out! Hope everyone has a happy, healthy, and safe New Year!
Friday, December 18, 2009
I'm Randy Turner!
What you might not know is that behind the scenes, I'm actually Randy Turner. And the Randy Turner you know, as KRBC's Chief Meteorologist and Main anchor is actually Brittany Pelletz. haha...just kidding, but I thought I'd let you know on a little "goodluck/just-for-fun-kinda thing we do" before every newscast! While our audio crew is checking our microphone levels and they ask for mine, I say something like, "this is Randy Turner, your chief meteorologist, etc" and Randy says, "I'm Brittany Pelletz and I have blonde hair, or something along those lines". No idea how the heck the tradition started, but it's just that...a tradition that has carried on and no newscast of Randy Turner and I goes without it.
Funny story, every day we record, "topicals," those are the previews you see during Judge Judy about what is coming up on First at Five...and one time, I said, "Join me, Randy Turner and Brittany Pelletz for those stories and more coming up today on First at Five." Luckily, it was recorded...but we all thought it was pretty silly. So, if by chance, you do catch that slip-up on air...there's your explanation.
As you can see, Randy Turner and I have a lot of fun working together.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Forget the Mall, There are Now Even Hagglers when you fly
While haggler might not be the best word to refer to people trying to sell you stuff...it's the first thing that comes to mind.
We all have likely experienced the Hagglers at the kiosks in the mall that try to lure you in, while you're on a shopping trip. I'll admit that often times they've got pretty cool stuff to sell...however, I don't like to be harressed to buy something. On the days when I am not a shopping mission, I'll come over on my own. But shouting at me is certainly not going to get a sale from me. While I complain about Hagglers, it's not like I expect them to disappear. It's something I know I'll have to deal with when I shop. However, what prompted me to write this blog is that haglers are even at the airport! I'm not sure if they have them on all airlines, but on AirTran they do. There have always been the stations, where if you sign up for a credit card...you earn frequent flyer miles. However, now the sales persons are hagglers! They chased some passengers down even and went above and beyond any shouting at the mall. The worse part about the airport hagglers is that when you walk down the concourse to find a restaurant you pass several haggler stands. After being cooped up in an airplane, it's not exactly what you want to deal with. Now don't get me wrong, I know that it's a job and people get paid to do it...and I respect that...but seeing how pushy they were to travelers and how frustrated people got over the sales pitch...I thought it was blogworthy. The frustrating thing about the airport is that there is really no escape. See, when you go to the mall...it's a choice. You know hagglers are going to be there. At the airport...there is no place to run and you can bet when you walk back down the concourse...you can bet you get a double whammy! You get haggled again. Any thoughts on pushy salespeople? Have you experienced the same thing at the airport?
We all have likely experienced the Hagglers at the kiosks in the mall that try to lure you in, while you're on a shopping trip. I'll admit that often times they've got pretty cool stuff to sell...however, I don't like to be harressed to buy something. On the days when I am not a shopping mission, I'll come over on my own. But shouting at me is certainly not going to get a sale from me. While I complain about Hagglers, it's not like I expect them to disappear. It's something I know I'll have to deal with when I shop. However, what prompted me to write this blog is that haglers are even at the airport! I'm not sure if they have them on all airlines, but on AirTran they do. There have always been the stations, where if you sign up for a credit card...you earn frequent flyer miles. However, now the sales persons are hagglers! They chased some passengers down even and went above and beyond any shouting at the mall. The worse part about the airport hagglers is that when you walk down the concourse to find a restaurant you pass several haggler stands. After being cooped up in an airplane, it's not exactly what you want to deal with. Now don't get me wrong, I know that it's a job and people get paid to do it...and I respect that...but seeing how pushy they were to travelers and how frustrated people got over the sales pitch...I thought it was blogworthy. The frustrating thing about the airport is that there is really no escape. See, when you go to the mall...it's a choice. You know hagglers are going to be there. At the airport...there is no place to run and you can bet when you walk back down the concourse...you can bet you get a double whammy! You get haggled again. Any thoughts on pushy salespeople? Have you experienced the same thing at the airport?
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)