Strange, Unusual, Radio & Television Topics

By Dana Arevalo,

P.O.V. Contributing Author

Reminiscing about the wonderful, "traffic filled" commute that I have stuck in the back of my mind, I recalled some of the radio programs that kept me company as I drove.  People are often attracted to dramatic, startling stories that seem surreal; however, they are very true and real.  Stuck on this topic I thought about a specific segment where the focus was on news that was completely absurd, startling, yet, amusing and at times entertaining. News such as this and reality television has become part of our pop culture.  There are so many reality shows that I can no longer keep track.  While I was growing up during the 80s I would watch iconic sitcoms such as Three's Company or  listen to radio segments and focus on the interviews and contests.  Today, people look forward to shows such as Beverley Hills Nannies and radio has taken on segments that play jokes or pranks on listeners, announce daily scoops  and share outrageous headlines. 

People find others' lives entertaining.  Unfortunately, we are no longer completely shocked over stories like the infamous Joey Buttafuoco and Amy Fischer   or   Lorena and John Bobbit.  People are curious and seek unconventional stories and headlines.  Viewers or listeners in no way condone the unusual behavior, however, they look forward to watch or listen for enjoyment or entertainment purposes.   Unconventional stories and television shows have become the norm for some.  They look forward to a night home waiting in anticipation for The Bachelor or Dance Moms or, perhaps, Jersey Shore. 

This topic sparked my interest so much that I researched further to find some unusual news headlines.  I discovered a positive news headline.  A man who became so infatuated with pennies paid off his mortgage with them!  While it took him several years to save them, he accomplished what he set out to do during the late 70s.  This Massachusetts gentleman walked into the bank with 800 pounds of pennies.  Great story!  Another unusual headline that caught my eye, as I recall briefly hearing the story on the news, was the young boy from Britain who was able to get on a plane without his family, passport or ticket.  The plane took off with him inside and made its way to Italy.  Who remembers Home Alone with Macaulay Culkin? 

They just do not make television or radio like they used to. This is not a bad or negative thing; I feel that television and radio has conformed into what the viewers and listeners crave.  What is your take on this topic? 

Sources:  USA Today's Offbeat News