Two Big Voices

Jerry McGee passed on a couple weeks ago. He was in his seventies, suffering from emphysema. He literally started radio in Redding back in the 50s, and worked (still doing production, still voicing commercials) up until six months ago. He served in the Korean War. Jerry didn't talk about the war much, just one story he mentioned about using his Zippo lighter to stay warm in the trenches.

When I worked with him, though, what we mainly talked about was radio. He had many stories about the barnstorming days of radio in Redding. I would share my stories. I always said that I wanted to run a tape while he told broadcasting stories. I never did, of course. Jerry was very self-effacing. His humor and comments were occasionally cutting. He would always include himself.

And just days ago we also lost Bob Thomas. He was one of the good guys. I remember meeting him at B94 in the 80s here in Redding. He always had something nice to say, always funny. I considered him a radio friend, though not a personal one. But I always knew that if I called him up, he would be as open and helpful as he could, especially if it had to do with our shared profession.

There are Bob Thomas stories I can tell and Jerry McGee stories I can tell, but this might not be the forum. They'll appear if I progress through my spotty biography on this blog.

I'll miss both of these guys. We who shared the airwaves share a kindred soul.

I've left radio business behind for now. (Okay, I do an occasional voice-over, but that's it!)

Now, on to becoming Kafka. It's been two weeks since the three-panel interview. It should just be a matter of days now when I find out if they want me.