What the polices mean for us

Ok, so let's break down the new policies (see previous post) in order of appearance.

Substitution policy:
This is a bigger pain for me than it will be for you. Most enjoy the thought of me in pain, so this policy should make you smile. This is straight forward. If you need a sub, please let me know way ahead of time--two weeks-- and let's talk about substitutes. If there is a person who would be good to sub, but they have not gone through the Workplace Harassment workshop, I can email the potential substitute a handout that will satisfy this requirement. Just so you know, I will be following up on all infractions that come to my attention.

On-air Announcements:
First the controversy. This policy is not intended to cramp our support of independent artists. You can still mention that Cat Power or Steve Earle are coming to town, and you can also include the date they will be performing. The only thing that changes is we cannot mention the venue, where to buy tickets and, of course, the ticket prices. Why? Two reasons. First: to avoid illegal language (calls to action and inducements to buy), payola and plugola issues, which are fine able not only to KRCL, but also the host. This shouldn't be news to any of us as this type of dialogue has been illegal since the creation of non-commercial licenses. Second, KRCL is looking for some financial reciprocation from the local venues, who rarely underwrite or support us. For the past twenty-seven years, KRCL has included venue information which has been a huge support to these businesses. It has also created a dynamic where many venues do not feel it necessary to underwrite or support KRCL. Honestly, why should they when KRCL hosts announce their concerts and shows for free.

Ticket and CD give-aways
Basically all give-aways need to go through the front office. Often we (staff) don't know what has been given away or where these items are when listeners show up to the station to pick up their prizes. They are upset, and rightfully so. They drive all the way down here and what they've been promised is nowhere to be found. Also, when hosts have a guest list rather than tickets, and the listener is not on the guest list when they arrive at the venue, KRCL staff is left to deal with angry listeners.

I am sure many of us still have questions. Please contact me if their are any points that I can elaborate on.