The meeting was called to order by President Ray at 12:15 pm. 

 

Invocation: Jim Baldwin

Flag Salute: Sam Newland

Song: Ben Taft 

 

Greg Gallion introduced his replacement at Houchin Blood Bank, Galen Cline. 

 

Win Eaton's guest was his wife, Norma, of 21 years. 

 

Jim Baldwin announced the winner of Employer of the Year, Jim Damian. 

 

We celebrated George Granger ‘s  88^th birthday. 

 

Ben Taft reminded us about the “pop-up” parties with the first scheduled for  Thursday, October 25 at Rogers Brandon’s house from 5:30-7:30 pm.  Attendance is limited to 25 so sign up now.

 

President Ray told us the Havana Nite fandango will be held April 13^th   next year.  He also stated we collected $4,900 for our Nicaragua project last week and thanked Steve Sanders for the presentation. 

 

On a sad note, President Ray said Colleen McGauley will not be able to assume her Presidency next year due to health problems but Garro Ellis has agreed to step in her place.  We wish Colleen well.

 

Kristen Beall, Program Chairperson, introduced a three-member media panel:  Derek Jeffery from KGET – TV, Michelle Chantry of the Bakersfield Californian and Rogers Brandon from American General Media to discuss the changes, challenges, and opportunities facing our local media leaders.

 

Reach of the industry:  The panel indicated local media still has considerable reach: Bakersfield television market is number 122 out of 210 in the country.  Newspaper reaches 30,000 households.  Radio 650,000 listeners.

 

Innovations.  Automation and consolidations have had a significant impact.  KGET now employs 70 versus 150 a few years ago due to the consolidation of functions such as accounting, engineering, etc.  The Californian has technology streamlined news production and the use of mobile phones news reporting.  They have installed their own studio to stream news on the internet.  Radio is seeing streaming of their audio taking 20-25% share of their audience

 

Consolidation.   National television companies have declined from 25 to 6 today which has helped reduce costs and improve efficiency.  Unfortunately, this has come at a cost of quality, community involvement, and earlier deadlines.   Minority ownership of radio has expanded the number of stations with Spanish language stations dominating now.   With the addition of social media, there are fewer credible voices in the news today.

 

Benefits to the community.  Local news sources provide better local news content, immediacy and a better sense of community.  Local columnists personalize news.

 

After several questions, the meeting was adjourned at 12:00 pm.