(Take the new Let's Blog! Poll, on the right.)
You demanded (Who exactly was that, kent? -Ed.), and herewith, we respond, to the first batch of personal questions submitted to the cast of Newscentral, 5-7 a.m. Future questions will be answered as well, unless my mind wanders.
From BikeRider — Kent: How many years have you been a reporter in LA? My earliest recollection of you on TV was the Challenger disaster. But I know you were not exactly new at that point.
A: I started here in 1983. I was brought on as the Aerospace reporter from Orlando, Florida. I covered Space Shuttle launches there, before coving the landings here (at Edwards AFB). BikeRider's "Challenger" comment refers to the morning I was anchoring Challenger's last lift-off. Very few stations across the country carried shuttle launches live anymore: they were old news. I was glad I'd had a few years of shuttle experience, to talk about what was happening, but obviously I wish it hadn't happened. BTW: about being around forever-- I like Ringo Starr's comment: "I am forever 24, until I look in the mirror."
From John — I have wondered were does Vera wear her microphone. All of the rest of you including the ladies you can see it hanging on there blouse or the guys tie or jacket but I do not see it on her.
A: (from Vera!) Hmmm... Let's see. Well honestly speaking the mic gets placed where ever it happens to work the best with whatever I'm wearing. Sometimes that's a skirt and blouse like today, other times a dress, some days a suit, or slacks and a sweater, it usually depends on the weather and the mood I'm in. Our audio guru, usually determines what mic placement works with the outfit and if it doesn't we adjust it accordingly. Thanks for inquiry! ;)
From Michael — Question for Henry: what's his favorite sport to watch, and to participate in? Why is he such an avid outdoorsman?
A: (From Henry!) I love football on TV, Hockey in person and playoff basketball and baseball. I enjoy playing all sports, but playing catch in the backyard with my boys is still the best. As for the outdoors, I grew up camping with my family. I enjoy camping and fishing with my family today. Henry
From Daryl — Kent, My daughter is the managing editor for her college newspaper. Do you or your team have any advice for a college student interested in a career in journalism? Thanks. Daryl
A: Nice to know of a concerned dad. Short answer: read and watch as much news as she can. If she likes a certain style, remember it, and don't be afraid to use it. Note I'm not saying 'steal it,' but analyze what makes it work. Take the first job she's offered. And prepare for a career more exciting than humanly imaginable. PS- if she wants to prep a list of questions, she can feel free to give me a call at the station. I'm the only Kent in the building. The operator knows where to find me.
(Facebook users: add Kent Shocknek to your Friends list, and sign onto Let's Drive! Also, follow "KentShocknek" on Twitter.)