As I sit here at my desk of 104.9 The Wolf on my last day, reflecting on the past 25 years, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions. On one hand, I am excited for the next chapter in my life and the opportunities it brings. On the other hand, it is difficult to say goodbye to a place that has been such a big part of my life for the past 25 years.
I have to admit, it’s been difficult to make the decision to leave this wonderful group of radio stations and the people that I worked with over the years. It’s been a huge part of my life and career and saying goodbye to something that has brought me so much joy and fulfillment is not easy. But I know that all good things must come to an end, and I am ready to embark on the next chapter of my life.
I want to take a moment to thank all of you for listening to and supporting me on the radio over the years. It has been an absolute pleasure to be a part of your daily routine and to share music and conversations with you. The connections and friendships I have made through the radio are truly special to me and I will always cherish them.
If you were listening this morning to John & Stephanie, my daughter Rebecca called in and gave me a beautiful send-off as she recapped my years in this building while surviving 5 changes in ownership. My kids grew up running the hallways of the radio station knowing every nook and cranny, all the best hiding spots, knew who was who and learning all the ins and outs of the radio business. We actually thought that my son Noah was going to be born on New Years’ Eve while I was here hosting an NYE Countdown…thankfully he waited a few days before his arrival. My kids, and their mother, sacrificed so much of what they wanted to allow me to continue to do the job that I love, and for that I can’t thank them enough or repay them for everything they did.
On March 13th, 2006 we launched The New 104.9 The Wolf with John & Pesto in the morning, Cindy Austin during the workday (10am-3pm), me in the afternoon (3pm-7pm), and Cody West from 7pm-Midnight. Just typing those names made me ugly cry as they were all not only major parts of the success of The Wolf but people who meant the world to me in my everyday life. Seventeen of the 25 years have been spent here, on 104.9 The Wolf and the previous eight years on Big Oldies 93.3 (now 93.3 The Drive) just down the hall.
I’ve spent the last 8 weeks since accepting a new job in a new state, going through pictures of those I’ve worked with, and all the events we were a part of within our community. John & Pesto, Jaymie Gordon, and Stephanie…Cindy Austin, Cody West, Joe Greenwood, Danger Dan, Street Team Andy and so many more. From Red, White, and Boom to Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon to concerts to The Marigold Festival, Pumpkin Festival and the Tremont Turkey Fest was the first event that actually CALLED US and asked us to be there with them emceeing the bed races, strawberry shortcake eating contest, talent show, and more, you have always been there with us.
Leaving the radio station is not easy, but I am grateful for the memories and experiences I have gained here. Thank you for being a part of my journey and for your loyalty and support. I will never forget the time we shared together on the radio or at one of the countless events we were all part of together.
Be healthy, be happy, be at peace…I’ll see ya, somewhere down the road.
Doc
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