(Blog originally posted 06/08/07)
It's very tough to know what to say this week having lost one of my dearest friends in Rhonda Hart (pictured left with me some time in the early 1980s and below right with me and another special grad, Sari Zalesin.).
I've known her for well over 20 years and followed her career and her personal life through many, many ups and downs, and I've never known a better person, or a better friend.
I've thought about how I'd write about her since attending her funeral last Saturday and after much consideration, I'll simply leave it at this -- I miss her terribly.
I must mention my admiration for the eulogy done by her partner at WMUZ, John Culbert. He really captured what Rhonda was all about.
It was also tough to hear about the death of another old friend, Paul Christy. He was a great guy and a terrific program director.
I will be in NYC for the annual presentation of the Gracie Awards by AWRT (American Women in Radio & TV) to watch grad Shelley Irwin (pictured left) win her FOURTH in as many years.
Shelley, who is with WGVU radio and TV in Grand Rapids, said in a recent article, "The things I've learned! The people I'm meeting! The opportunities! I've eaten fire!!! I've gone to Jordan..."
And being humble, never mentioned the four Gracie Awards! She is involved in many organizations, including serving as President of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan. It's an honor to count her among our grads.
I'm delighted to report that grad Jay Hudson has been named Music Director & Assistant Program Director at Detroit’s 89X. And how about this guys -- recent grad Becky Hayden is the brand new PR & Media Relations Director of the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, Indiana!? How cool is that?
I just re-connected with a long ago grad, Brian Taylor, Director of Media Relations for the St. John’s Hospital Group. Brian had a very successful career as a TV anchor/ reporter in Lansing and Grand Rapids before using his background to pursue Media Relations. He served in a similar position for many years at Beaumont Hospital before joining the St. John’s group. He'll be our commencement speaker on June 22 for the graduation of RTV-12-06.
And finally, a big way-to-go to Mike Abbotts on being named Assistant Production Director for the 8-station Cumulus group in Toledo. WOW -- 8 stations! Oh, and he's still able to do weekends at his former employer, WJR. He's really keeping busy!
I need to recognize in closing, the person who makes this blog possible, and who harassed me for weeks to start it -- the one and only Shelly Maki, our Marketing Director. This would never have happened without her help and encouragement. Thanks, Shel!�