There Will Likely Be No "Storms of the Century" This Year

   An open letter to the main stream media...particularly the broadcast media

   Winter is almost here, but the winter-like weather is already here in parts of upstate.
We all know it will snow...it will blow....there will be icy conditions, and that we need to be aware of our surroundings.
    Caution is the order of the day and saving lives is paramount.
    However, in reporting the weather, can we keep it in perspective ? Can we not panic the public into staying locked in their homes, afraid of this week's 'storm of the century.' ?
    People talk about weather...News executives have caught on and that's why local news consists mostly of talking about the weather...The more hyberbole, the more viewer and listener interest...
   I get it...I am in radio.

Motorist in the Ditch Sunday in the Town of Parish

    However, throughout the winter months, time after time, the public is spooked by inflammatory weather forecasts. This is particularly true in an area with so many new residents.
   I know its true from my retail auto days, when so many people had been convinced you have to have a four wheel drive vehicle.
    There will be snowy days...but we also have an unparalleled ability to clear roads quickly...
     The recent cancellation of school over "superstorm Sandy" was an example of media hype at the expense of the public.
     Retailers lose a lot with all these OMG weather reports...Let's cool it..We all have to make a living.