THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, January 23, 1996 TAG: 9601230005
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Medium: 78 lines
WTKR TV-3 did a disservice not only to itself and its audience but to the community in its dismissal of Duane Harding.
Duane has been my friend for the past 4 1/2 years; he is both approachable and enjoyable. With so many in the media being arrogant and condescending, Duane is the antithesis. He opened the studio, when possible, to amateur meteorologists and weather spotters the first Friday of each month. We enjoyed his teaching and gained tremendous knowledge from each meeting. Duane's concern and encouragement were especially important for the many students of all ages and teachers who also attended.
In addition to being a meteorologist, Duane is an avid gardener.
I can hardly believe an experienced meteorologist with a great personality could be dismissed from WTKR. The station has clearly demonstrated that it cares more about flash than substance. It has also become one of the most politically correct stations in the area.
Duane will quickly find employment. His abilities and experience will warrant attention from television stations and universities nationwide. If he leave the area, we will suffer a loss; but wherever he goes, those who will work with and learn from him are truly fortunate.
DAVID C. KESSEL
Hampton, Jan. 17, 1996
While Duane Harding was not one of my favorite weathercasters, I think that Channel 3 has indeed done him a favor by letting him go and getting him off that stupid roof. He deserves better than that, as do the rest of WTKR's weather staff. The ``roof'' beats all for stupid gimmicks. I, for one, get my weather reports from Channel 3's competing stations.
Get real, WTKR, and good luck Dr. Duane.
KAY FRANCIS
Virginia Beach, Jan. 16, 1996
I am 8 years old. I grew up watching Dr. Duane Harding as Channel 3's weatherman. The whole family would come running when Mom called out ``Dr. Duane is on.'' He has taught me a lot and was great with the radar. I will miss him very much. It won't be the same without Mom calling out ``Dr. Duane is on.''
Channel 3 made a terrible mistake, because now my family will be watching another channel for the first time ever.
CHARA DAGRES
Virginia Beach, Jan. 19, 1996
Well, that did it! WTKR has fired Duane Harding.
When WTKR sent its meteorologist outside onto the roof, regardless of the weather, I thought someone had lost his/her mind. Now I know that is true.
Maybe it's time to put the skids under WTKR management and bring back sanity. Bring back Duane Harding, too.
MRS. L. H. HALL
Chesapeake, Jan. 16, 1996
The firing of Dr. Duane was ridiculous. People want accurate weather reporting with someone like Dr. Duane. If we wanted a soap opera with yuppies kidding around, we'd change channels. Whoever is in charge needs to think again, or WTKR is going to lose lots of viewers.
BARBARA GARNER
Virginia Beach, Jan. 22, 1996
I am another viewer who has switched from station WTKR over the Dr. Duane firing.
It is about time that management found out viewers do not turn on a station because of the management but because of the class act of its on-air personnel. WTKR TV had very few such personalities until it hired Dr. Duane. It is still in the same predicament.
I will not support any endeavor or advertiser associated with WTKR TV.
CHARLES J. COMBS
Virginia Beach, Jan. 16, 1996 by CNB