For a while, the Taft building on the southeast corner of Hollywood and Vine had an electric news scroll that broadcast headlines. It was installed by local radio station KFWB and you can see it in late 40s and early 50s photos. This photo shows what a big deal it was to Angelenos. It was taken on the night of August 6, 1946, which marked debut of what was called a “flashcast.” One report I read said that a temporary stage and bleachers were built for the occasion, and up to 25,000 people crowded the intersection. Too bad if you wanted to get into the Rexall drug store that night!
And all I wanted was a “”Cherry Coke” at Rexall
Not long after this, another Flashcast was put up above the third floor of the Warner Hollywood theatre on the corner of 7th and Hill Streets. Its length of time up appears to parallel the one above the Taft Bldg. – 1946-7 to 1953 or thereabouts.