Aside from pointing out the limitations of the transcribed-talking-head-as-news-dispatch format, this at-times cryptically worded missive from KXAN strives for the best in “gotcha” local journalism (not that such egg-faced reports could ever rival the current “emo exposé” sweeping local affiliates nationwide. Seriously, when did “emo” left turn from semirespectable indie rock into the dark realms of the visigoth?)

To wit:

“[A] document on the city’s Web site, uncovered by a citizen researching the eviction of the popular Liberty Lunch nightclub from city property, cited a benefit of the eviction: ‘… more than 5,000 parking spaces, much of which will be available as free night and weekend parking to augment the parking needs of the surrounding warehouse and music district.'”

Oops! But here’s the rub:

“In any case, paying or not paying for parking is a policy decision, and council members, not city staffers such as Jill Maness, make policy decisions.”

Oh, snap!

(And seriously – in the YouTube era, why is KXAN using tired-ass Microsoft Video on their site, which won’t load on the Mac? Innovate, people!)

This article appears in June 8 • 2007.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US