My fuzzy brain is slow right now so sorry for typos. I went to St. Thomas Hospital due to my friends and their worried insistance over my swollen legs SaTurday night. Well, the doctors did their their numerous tests and found advanced cancer starting from my breast. Please know I am at peace with this. I am getting much help from friends and others from this. So I join that other large group of groups: cancer patients. Please do not be sad--the last thing I want is negativity or doom. The main thing is positivity.
More news later--I love you all!--Wendy
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Where Have I Been This Year?
I realized it's been a year since I wrote anything in this blog. I guess for the most part I've been too busy to ponder. Anyhow, I've always done some year-end recap around the holidays, so here's what's been happening for me this year.
At the end of last year I stepped down from my "Never Too Old" radio show and joined T.J. Kirby as a sidekick on "T.J. and Company". It's been quite the experience. T.J. has always been a radio mentor to me, so I have learned a lot in the process...most of all that a supporting role is what I am most comfortable with. In addition to being on air, I also do the "administrivia" for the show. I created and maintain our website (www.tjandcompanyradio.com ), I write our show blog and make sure guests and stations get MP3s of our show. Yes, we are syndicated as well with at this writing six stations that also broadcast our show...we like to call it the "see ya on the radio network." We've had some great guests on our show, ranging from music legends such as Lenny Welch, Beverly Bremers and Alan O'Day, to some up and coming talent such as Runaway Home, Calico Trail, Brittany Allyn and many others. Another exciting thing that happened for us this year is being nominated in two categories for the 2010 Nashville AIR awards. There is more to come in the next year, so stay tuned.
In March, I got back to work long-term. An agency out of North Carolina somehow got hold of my resume and offered me a temporary position in the Brentwood area. It was supposed to be for a few months, but here I am coming up on a year. My position will be up in February and then it will be time to look for work again.
I thought turning 55 was going to be positive, with maybe even some senior discounts out there. But around this time, I began going through something that had pretty much eluded me: health problems. I started having leg and hip pain and began to limp. After waiting a while to see if this would just go away just like every other health problem I had did, I recently bit the bullet and went to a chiropractor. I found out that my spine had rotated a little and it put my right hip out of alignment. So we are at the beginning right now of attacking this problem. Chronic pain is not fun. It's been the worst ordeal I've been through. It's forced me to put every ounce of energy to get through my job each day and curtail my trips to writer's nights. So that is why you haven't seen much of me, my songwriter friends. I wouldn't wish this on anyone. But I'll be back.
So that's my year. I hope you had a good one. Here's to you in 2011.
At the end of last year I stepped down from my "Never Too Old" radio show and joined T.J. Kirby as a sidekick on "T.J. and Company". It's been quite the experience. T.J. has always been a radio mentor to me, so I have learned a lot in the process...most of all that a supporting role is what I am most comfortable with. In addition to being on air, I also do the "administrivia" for the show. I created and maintain our website (www.tjandcompanyradio.com ), I write our show blog and make sure guests and stations get MP3s of our show. Yes, we are syndicated as well with at this writing six stations that also broadcast our show...we like to call it the "see ya on the radio network." We've had some great guests on our show, ranging from music legends such as Lenny Welch, Beverly Bremers and Alan O'Day, to some up and coming talent such as Runaway Home, Calico Trail, Brittany Allyn and many others. Another exciting thing that happened for us this year is being nominated in two categories for the 2010 Nashville AIR awards. There is more to come in the next year, so stay tuned.
In March, I got back to work long-term. An agency out of North Carolina somehow got hold of my resume and offered me a temporary position in the Brentwood area. It was supposed to be for a few months, but here I am coming up on a year. My position will be up in February and then it will be time to look for work again.
I thought turning 55 was going to be positive, with maybe even some senior discounts out there. But around this time, I began going through something that had pretty much eluded me: health problems. I started having leg and hip pain and began to limp. After waiting a while to see if this would just go away just like every other health problem I had did, I recently bit the bullet and went to a chiropractor. I found out that my spine had rotated a little and it put my right hip out of alignment. So we are at the beginning right now of attacking this problem. Chronic pain is not fun. It's been the worst ordeal I've been through. It's forced me to put every ounce of energy to get through my job each day and curtail my trips to writer's nights. So that is why you haven't seen much of me, my songwriter friends. I wouldn't wish this on anyone. But I'll be back.
So that's my year. I hope you had a good one. Here's to you in 2011.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
School Days
I've recently rediscovered many of my elementary and high school classmates from my hometown of West Haven, CT on Facebook. One of the most fun parts of this is the groups that were created around my neighborhood elementary school and high school covering the time I attended in the 60s and 70s. What's really been a blast is the memory-jogging photos, names and stories that have gone along with the postings. So far, I've managed to escape any unearthing of photos of me from these sources, which could be a good thing. But isn't it funny how looking at a picture of a childhood friend in the old neighborhood can bring you back nearly 50 years with instant recall of what it felt like.
On one of these groups, the talk turned to teachers we had and various stories. Being a writer, I have a few of those to tell. I don't want to hog the group so I thought I'd add a couple of those here.
I went to Noble School which was just a few blocks down from where I lived. I actually lived on three of the four sides of the block during my childhood (starting with Noble, Cottage and then our home built on the extended side on East, so we skipped the Blohm side). I learned some key things about myself during my time there. I was apparently a precocious reader...I remember being brought by one of my kindergarten teachers, Miss Keefe, into one of the other teacher's room (I think it was Miss Sullivan, who I eventually got as a teacher) to read a paper or something for her. I also remember getting a peek of the almighty "permanent record card" of mine which was on a teacher's desk. I could have sworn the description written on it of me said "Odd child". Actually, I don't think I'd dispute that description.
I also recall another incident which perhaps foretold my destiny. I remember one day a few of us kids were brought down to the all-purpose basement room of Noble School. I might have been in kindergarten or first grade. I was placed in front of a microphone and told to say something that went pretty much like this: "My name is Wendy Vickers. I go to Noble School. I cross at the corner of Noble and Washington. Please watch out for me, WDEE listener." I remember a teacher or someone saying, "she says that so cute". I think I even heard it once on the radio. Funny how I remembered that throughout all these years. This, folks, could very well have been the genesis of my ensuing "radio career".
In third grade I had Miss Bluette as a teacher. Somehow or another I became the "teacher's pet". She must have really liked me because my report card for that grade was all A's. I kept it for the longest time but it eventually got lost in all my moves, I guess. I doubt very much that I was that brilliant at everything I did in that grade. One of my "perks" of pet-ism was that I would get to "watch the room" when Miss Bluette had to leave the room.
Probably the most memorable occasion of that was the day President Kennedy was shot. She and the other teachers went from room to room trying to get the latest news. There was a bit of confusion as to whether she told me to watch the room or take over the reading group that was going on--but I decided to presume she said to watch the room and so I took the seat at her desk. I remember a couple of kids sitting in the back of the room laughing and drawing a picture. I asked them why they were laughing at a time like this and they said "nothing". Finally she came back and announced to us that President Kennedy had died and they sent us all home. I remember it being rare that I walked home on my own; my mother would usually meet me and she probably freaked that day that I walked home myself (or at least with other kids). But hey, I survived. Perhaps that particular memory is why one of my biggest pop culture interests is media coverage of the JFK assassination (there's a treasure trove of that now archived on You Tube. Uncle Walter got us through, as did Frank McGee, Bill Ryan and Huntley-Brinkley on NBC; ABC's coverage, however, was a train wreck. But I digress...).
When I got into high school, I was one of the stereotypical misfit nerds who wouldn't have a snowball's chance of being on the cheerleading squad and such. But that's been one of the other surprises of these Facebook groups: learning that so many not only remembered me, but did so fondly. Maturity changes one's perspective. Taking a cue from Brad Paisley's wonderful "Letter To Me" song, I advise all teenagers who were like me to ride the years out...it'll change. And maybe it's better than you thought...and so are you.
On one of these groups, the talk turned to teachers we had and various stories. Being a writer, I have a few of those to tell. I don't want to hog the group so I thought I'd add a couple of those here.
I went to Noble School which was just a few blocks down from where I lived. I actually lived on three of the four sides of the block during my childhood (starting with Noble, Cottage and then our home built on the extended side on East, so we skipped the Blohm side). I learned some key things about myself during my time there. I was apparently a precocious reader...I remember being brought by one of my kindergarten teachers, Miss Keefe, into one of the other teacher's room (I think it was Miss Sullivan, who I eventually got as a teacher) to read a paper or something for her. I also remember getting a peek of the almighty "permanent record card" of mine which was on a teacher's desk. I could have sworn the description written on it of me said "Odd child". Actually, I don't think I'd dispute that description.
I also recall another incident which perhaps foretold my destiny. I remember one day a few of us kids were brought down to the all-purpose basement room of Noble School. I might have been in kindergarten or first grade. I was placed in front of a microphone and told to say something that went pretty much like this: "My name is Wendy Vickers. I go to Noble School. I cross at the corner of Noble and Washington. Please watch out for me, WDEE listener." I remember a teacher or someone saying, "she says that so cute". I think I even heard it once on the radio. Funny how I remembered that throughout all these years. This, folks, could very well have been the genesis of my ensuing "radio career".
In third grade I had Miss Bluette as a teacher. Somehow or another I became the "teacher's pet". She must have really liked me because my report card for that grade was all A's. I kept it for the longest time but it eventually got lost in all my moves, I guess. I doubt very much that I was that brilliant at everything I did in that grade. One of my "perks" of pet-ism was that I would get to "watch the room" when Miss Bluette had to leave the room.
Probably the most memorable occasion of that was the day President Kennedy was shot. She and the other teachers went from room to room trying to get the latest news. There was a bit of confusion as to whether she told me to watch the room or take over the reading group that was going on--but I decided to presume she said to watch the room and so I took the seat at her desk. I remember a couple of kids sitting in the back of the room laughing and drawing a picture. I asked them why they were laughing at a time like this and they said "nothing". Finally she came back and announced to us that President Kennedy had died and they sent us all home. I remember it being rare that I walked home on my own; my mother would usually meet me and she probably freaked that day that I walked home myself (or at least with other kids). But hey, I survived. Perhaps that particular memory is why one of my biggest pop culture interests is media coverage of the JFK assassination (there's a treasure trove of that now archived on You Tube. Uncle Walter got us through, as did Frank McGee, Bill Ryan and Huntley-Brinkley on NBC; ABC's coverage, however, was a train wreck. But I digress...).
When I got into high school, I was one of the stereotypical misfit nerds who wouldn't have a snowball's chance of being on the cheerleading squad and such. But that's been one of the other surprises of these Facebook groups: learning that so many not only remembered me, but did so fondly. Maturity changes one's perspective. Taking a cue from Brad Paisley's wonderful "Letter To Me" song, I advise all teenagers who were like me to ride the years out...it'll change. And maybe it's better than you thought...and so are you.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
When It's Done Right...
I watched most of the episodes of "The Sing Off" this past couple of weeks. There were some really talented groups competing. One of those was the Voices of Lee, who I have seen many times at Gaither Homecoming and Mark Lowry events, so I knew them to be amazing. Despite the fact they were out of their usual comfort zone and did some music on the show that was very different for them, they did a great job. I voted for them, but could have gone with any of the finalists. I enjoyed the humor and style of the Beezlebubs, but I sort of felt Nota had that thing going on and they would win...and I saw that it would have meant the most to them to win.
The finale was superb. One other standout was the judging...imagine--positive, encouraging, helpful, constructive criticism. And if you saw the last show, these judges really cared about these artists. Awesome job Ben, Nicole and Shawn.
This series was done first class all the way. I hope it returns. If you missed it, take a look here. American Idol, take a hint. You can do something besides being cruel and outrageous and have a success.
The finale was superb. One other standout was the judging...imagine--positive, encouraging, helpful, constructive criticism. And if you saw the last show, these judges really cared about these artists. Awesome job Ben, Nicole and Shawn.
This series was done first class all the way. I hope it returns. If you missed it, take a look here. American Idol, take a hint. You can do something besides being cruel and outrageous and have a success.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Halloween Surprise
We've had some technical issues in the course of the upgrade to a new frequency at Radio Free Nashville. My friend and "radio mate" T.J. Kirby's planned Halloween afternoon show was a casualty of those issues. So with his afternoon free, he called me and asked "want to go for a good meal?". I said sure, why not. When all else fails, eat, is what I say.
I met T.J. and Rene at their place, got in their car and rode with them. We started in the direction of Kingston Springs. It seemed like maybe we were heading to Sonic again, as we've often done lately. Nope--went past it. We didn't stop at the nearby Mexican restaurant, either...another wrong guess. We got on the freeway and T.J. said he and Rene had a surprise for me. Fine by me. When it comes down to food, I'm game for most things...except foods which are onion or egg-heavy (as they hear from me all the time!).
The surprise was a visit to some of Rene's relatives, who were having a southern catfish fry in a huge barn. The spread was enormous and incredibly delicious: fried catfish, fries, chicken, cole slaw, white beans, turnip greens, macaroni and cheese, and a host of desserts. For a chow hound like me, it was paradise. There was also a lot of warmth and southern hospitality.
It wasn't just about the food, though. It was about continuing love and friendship being shown to me by angels in my life who know of my ongoing difficult circumstances. When certain parts of your life get tough, you have to look at the "big picture". In the midst of challenges, be grateful and focus on those things that are blessings. Sometimes that's easier said than done. But it's what keeps you going.
I met T.J. and Rene at their place, got in their car and rode with them. We started in the direction of Kingston Springs. It seemed like maybe we were heading to Sonic again, as we've often done lately. Nope--went past it. We didn't stop at the nearby Mexican restaurant, either...another wrong guess. We got on the freeway and T.J. said he and Rene had a surprise for me. Fine by me. When it comes down to food, I'm game for most things...except foods which are onion or egg-heavy (as they hear from me all the time!).
The surprise was a visit to some of Rene's relatives, who were having a southern catfish fry in a huge barn. The spread was enormous and incredibly delicious: fried catfish, fries, chicken, cole slaw, white beans, turnip greens, macaroni and cheese, and a host of desserts. For a chow hound like me, it was paradise. There was also a lot of warmth and southern hospitality.
It wasn't just about the food, though. It was about continuing love and friendship being shown to me by angels in my life who know of my ongoing difficult circumstances. When certain parts of your life get tough, you have to look at the "big picture". In the midst of challenges, be grateful and focus on those things that are blessings. Sometimes that's easier said than done. But it's what keeps you going.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Honesty Is The Best Policy
This morning I went out to pick up a few groceries but needed to first stop at my bank's ATM. I pulled behind someone who seemed to be taking a little time and pressing a lot of buttons. The person drove off, and I pulled up to the window. As I was about to insert my card, a stack of bills spit out with a receipt. It looked like it might have been about $200 or so--I didn't even count it. I think this person ahead of me probably thought the transaction didn't work the first time, tried it again and unknowingly made a double withdrawal. But I didn't think twice about what to do. I pulled around to the bank entrance and brought the money and receipt inside, explaining what happened and asked if they could track the customer down.
All the people at the bank told me how sweet and nice I was to have done what I did. Are you kidding me? I wouldn't have thought of doing anything else. I wouldn't have considered keeping the money--even in my situation of being out of work for so long. I also answer to God. It's someone else's money and I know had it been me realizing I might have lost the cash, I would have been in a panic. I would hate to think anyone would have done otherwise.
So I drove back through to the ATM and did my own paltry withdrawal. I lingered for a second to make sure nothing extra was going to spit out. :)
All the people at the bank told me how sweet and nice I was to have done what I did. Are you kidding me? I wouldn't have thought of doing anything else. I wouldn't have considered keeping the money--even in my situation of being out of work for so long. I also answer to God. It's someone else's money and I know had it been me realizing I might have lost the cash, I would have been in a panic. I would hate to think anyone would have done otherwise.
So I drove back through to the ATM and did my own paltry withdrawal. I lingered for a second to make sure nothing extra was going to spit out. :)
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Too Busy To Ponder...
I've pretty much been behind in all my blogging as of late. Too many activities going on. I'm perhaps spreading myself thin but hey, I like doing all these things.
Here's a recap of what I have (and haven't) been up to:
The lack of employment situation remains the same. 'Nuff said. There is always talk of possibilities, but nothing yet materializing. I am doing a little support for an artist I absolutely believe in, which is great in that at least I can say right now I am an artist assistant, if anyone asks.
I have not had time to continue the "Wendy V's Pondercast", plus that well's been a bit empty lately. Thus, I have decided to bring it to a close for now. I'm grateful to all who have listened and to Cyberears for being a great host site. I may take some of the better ones and see if I can host them on my website as a "best of" series.
I spent the 4th of July in a small town called Pegram, about a dozen miles west of the part of Nashville I live in. A fellow Radio Free Nashville DJ and the mayor of Pegram, both of whom I got to know via Facebook, recruited me to judge some baby and children's pageants (No such thing as an ugly baby by me-I was quite generous in my scoring!). I also helped with some various and sundry tasks before and during the event. It was a lovely small-town America celebration. I've always been a cityfied gal, but these folks treated me as if I were their own. I felt I made a bond with this area and its people with a few new friends.
I also had my big break in the music community here. I was accepted to present a topic at a fairly new music industry networking organization called Indie Connect. This helps various independent artists and service providers network and find each other for potential opportunities. One of my fellow industry professionals suggested I share some of my radio station knowledge, so I proposed a topic on how radio interviews/appearances could be effective for artists. I've gotten quite a bit of compliments on my recent radio show guest interviews. Thus, I took some of what I learned there and brought it to this presentation. It was the first time I spoke before an industry crowd here in Nashville and the first time I've done any kind of group speaking in quite a while. I hoped some of my Toastmaster training stayed with me, and I'd have to say that it did. I had a couple of friends and Indie Connect meeting regulars come, and that was fine by me. I was pleased with how it all went and very grateful for the opportunity. Here's hoping it leads to others!
I also filled in for a couple of DJ friends of mine on their WRFN radio show while they were playing at a music festival in Latvia. See, it's things like this show, the presentation, etc. that makes me continue to want to have my days flexible to take advantage of these opportunities.
Of course, I am still writing, going to shows 4-5 nights a week, etc. and doing what it is I do. Right now I am continuing to trust God to provide for my needs and He has not failed me yet. The one thing I need right now is an efficient computer with enough memory to do proper support for folks. So I'm trusting and believing for that as well...
Check in and I'll keep you posted.
Here's a recap of what I have (and haven't) been up to:
The lack of employment situation remains the same. 'Nuff said. There is always talk of possibilities, but nothing yet materializing. I am doing a little support for an artist I absolutely believe in, which is great in that at least I can say right now I am an artist assistant, if anyone asks.
I have not had time to continue the "Wendy V's Pondercast", plus that well's been a bit empty lately. Thus, I have decided to bring it to a close for now. I'm grateful to all who have listened and to Cyberears for being a great host site. I may take some of the better ones and see if I can host them on my website as a "best of" series.
I spent the 4th of July in a small town called Pegram, about a dozen miles west of the part of Nashville I live in. A fellow Radio Free Nashville DJ and the mayor of Pegram, both of whom I got to know via Facebook, recruited me to judge some baby and children's pageants (No such thing as an ugly baby by me-I was quite generous in my scoring!). I also helped with some various and sundry tasks before and during the event. It was a lovely small-town America celebration. I've always been a cityfied gal, but these folks treated me as if I were their own. I felt I made a bond with this area and its people with a few new friends.
I also had my big break in the music community here. I was accepted to present a topic at a fairly new music industry networking organization called Indie Connect. This helps various independent artists and service providers network and find each other for potential opportunities. One of my fellow industry professionals suggested I share some of my radio station knowledge, so I proposed a topic on how radio interviews/appearances could be effective for artists. I've gotten quite a bit of compliments on my recent radio show guest interviews. Thus, I took some of what I learned there and brought it to this presentation. It was the first time I spoke before an industry crowd here in Nashville and the first time I've done any kind of group speaking in quite a while. I hoped some of my Toastmaster training stayed with me, and I'd have to say that it did. I had a couple of friends and Indie Connect meeting regulars come, and that was fine by me. I was pleased with how it all went and very grateful for the opportunity. Here's hoping it leads to others!
I also filled in for a couple of DJ friends of mine on their WRFN radio show while they were playing at a music festival in Latvia. See, it's things like this show, the presentation, etc. that makes me continue to want to have my days flexible to take advantage of these opportunities.
Of course, I am still writing, going to shows 4-5 nights a week, etc. and doing what it is I do. Right now I am continuing to trust God to provide for my needs and He has not failed me yet. The one thing I need right now is an efficient computer with enough memory to do proper support for folks. So I'm trusting and believing for that as well...
Check in and I'll keep you posted.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Recommended Reads
As a writer, I just love it when I find some drop dead amazing, spellbinding writers that keep me engaged in every word. If you remember the scene in "Amadeus" where Salieri picks up a score that Mozart left lying around, reads it and you see the intense emotion in his face as he hears the music in his head, that's the "wow" effect I feel when I read some of these writers. Sure, I wish I had the same kind of talent...or I'd take at least a fraction of it. But I appreciate it for what it is and soak it up like a sponge when I read. Anyhow, in no particular order, here's some of who's on my list these days.
- My musician/ex-talk radio friend from St. Paul, T.D. Mischke, who is flat out a killer writer. His move to City Pages was a win-win for him and us all. Read his section.
- Dale Connelly, MPR host of the internet based "Radio Heartland" who has a blog "Trial Balloon" to go with (not bad grammar...a Minnesota-ism). A genius humorist and one of my long-time radio and writing heroes.
- Rand Bishop, most notably a hit songwriter ("My List" for Toby Keith), has an entertaining, engaging and informative book, "Makin' Stuff Up", on the art of songwriting and his own experiences in the music world. I also enjoy him greatly as a speaker and performer.
- I found a book in the library I couldn't resist: "Radio On", by Sarah Vowell. A listener's diary, it was written over 10 years ago when she was in her 20s. Amazing writing. What's it like to have that talent that young?
I'm also looking forward to reading the new book by my fellow programmer at Radio Free Nashville, River Jordan, called "Saints In Limbo".
My $.02 and change...all worth checking out.
- My musician/ex-talk radio friend from St. Paul, T.D. Mischke, who is flat out a killer writer. His move to City Pages was a win-win for him and us all. Read his section.
- Dale Connelly, MPR host of the internet based "Radio Heartland" who has a blog "Trial Balloon" to go with (not bad grammar...a Minnesota-ism). A genius humorist and one of my long-time radio and writing heroes.
- Rand Bishop, most notably a hit songwriter ("My List" for Toby Keith), has an entertaining, engaging and informative book, "Makin' Stuff Up", on the art of songwriting and his own experiences in the music world. I also enjoy him greatly as a speaker and performer.
- I found a book in the library I couldn't resist: "Radio On", by Sarah Vowell. A listener's diary, it was written over 10 years ago when she was in her 20s. Amazing writing. What's it like to have that talent that young?
I'm also looking forward to reading the new book by my fellow programmer at Radio Free Nashville, River Jordan, called "Saints In Limbo".
My $.02 and change...all worth checking out.
...But Sometimes It Doesn't
I guess I jinxed myself by opening my mouth. The temp position came to an abrupt end. I won't say much about it except that either I was gone too long or God changed His mind about where He wanted me. At least He put me in the right place when I got the word...right in the middle of the Tuesday night prayer group I attend.
To add insult to injury, there was a mouse in the house the next day. Many of you know that's one of my worst fears and nightmares. But I guess if you buy a house, you're due to have a mouse (gosh, I'm so poetic). The main advice, of course, was the same: "get a cat." Look, I like cats, but cats mean care, feeding, and vet bills. I can't afford that. It's cheaper to buy traps. However, I haven't seen any sightings since I placed traps everywhere. I gave the mouse an ultimatum: leave or die. Maybe mice are a little more polite here in TN than they were in MN and it said "yes ma'am" and split. Could I be so lucky? We'll see. I'm not sounding the "all clear" yet, though.
From here on all fronts, it's about moving forward and focusing on the things I know I am successful at. Most especially, I'm concentrating on my goal of supporting artists for most of my time and getting by financially doing it. I am stepping out in faith for awhile and trusting God for provision, trying not to get sidetracked by economic fears which lead to wrong places. There, I said it. I'll take any prayers and encouragement.
To add insult to injury, there was a mouse in the house the next day. Many of you know that's one of my worst fears and nightmares. But I guess if you buy a house, you're due to have a mouse (gosh, I'm so poetic). The main advice, of course, was the same: "get a cat." Look, I like cats, but cats mean care, feeding, and vet bills. I can't afford that. It's cheaper to buy traps. However, I haven't seen any sightings since I placed traps everywhere. I gave the mouse an ultimatum: leave or die. Maybe mice are a little more polite here in TN than they were in MN and it said "yes ma'am" and split. Could I be so lucky? We'll see. I'm not sounding the "all clear" yet, though.
From here on all fronts, it's about moving forward and focusing on the things I know I am successful at. Most especially, I'm concentrating on my goal of supporting artists for most of my time and getting by financially doing it. I am stepping out in faith for awhile and trusting God for provision, trying not to get sidetracked by economic fears which lead to wrong places. There, I said it. I'll take any prayers and encouragement.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
It All Makes Sense(us)
Just to catch folks up who have been following my employment(or lack of) status:
For the past month I was working for the US 2010 Census. I was a lister, or address canvasser, going around with a hand held computer to local neighborhoods. I was updating the address records for the mailing of the 2010 Census form, matching what I saw on the ground to what was on the computer's lists. I got to make my own schedule and braved rain, dogs, various conditions of homes and petulant computers. It all was very interesting at times. Last week I and the rest of our team completed the mission and were let go. Friday of that week I was called back to my old temp job. Absolutely, positively, without a doubt, God in the timing and details of that one. It's nice to be back among familiar people and surroundings. I'm not certain for how long that will be, but I'll keep showing up until they tell me not to. And I will trust that God will continue to provide as He has for the past year.
For the past month I was working for the US 2010 Census. I was a lister, or address canvasser, going around with a hand held computer to local neighborhoods. I was updating the address records for the mailing of the 2010 Census form, matching what I saw on the ground to what was on the computer's lists. I got to make my own schedule and braved rain, dogs, various conditions of homes and petulant computers. It all was very interesting at times. Last week I and the rest of our team completed the mission and were let go. Friday of that week I was called back to my old temp job. Absolutely, positively, without a doubt, God in the timing and details of that one. It's nice to be back among familiar people and surroundings. I'm not certain for how long that will be, but I'll keep showing up until they tell me not to. And I will trust that God will continue to provide as He has for the past year.
Friday, April 10, 2009
It's Not About Me...
My musician friend Steve Haggard was kind enough to say a few words about me in his latest column "The Real Music City" in the Nashville Free Press. But, especially reading the posted comment that followed made me realize that it wasn't so much about me but about two things I believe in and that guide what I do.
The first is the message of encouragement that I've been "preaching" all these many years. I've said over and over again how critical encouragement is and how much it matters in people's lives. It changes lives and it brings hope when it seems there is none, and that power's in every one of us if we'd just use it on each other. Need more convincing? Please spend some time here.
The second is that I've noted on many occasions that this musician support work that I do is bigger than me. It was shown to me a long time ago that this was a calling for me. Trust and obedience are sometimes not easy things to hold on to as you're being used of God for a particular purpose. But if you're willing to hang in for the end result...it's priceless.
Easter weekend was a fitting time for this column to come out. I'm one grateful and thankful gal.
The first is the message of encouragement that I've been "preaching" all these many years. I've said over and over again how critical encouragement is and how much it matters in people's lives. It changes lives and it brings hope when it seems there is none, and that power's in every one of us if we'd just use it on each other. Need more convincing? Please spend some time here.
The second is that I've noted on many occasions that this musician support work that I do is bigger than me. It was shown to me a long time ago that this was a calling for me. Trust and obedience are sometimes not easy things to hold on to as you're being used of God for a particular purpose. But if you're willing to hang in for the end result...it's priceless.
Easter weekend was a fitting time for this column to come out. I'm one grateful and thankful gal.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
DOG is GOD Spelled Backward
I came home from one of my nights out feeling slighted, rejected and somewhat shattered. As I pulled into my carport, I was greeted by my neighbor's dog. He's getting old now, and has a hard time walking. But as soon as he sees me, he always heads straight for me, wanting to come into my house or my car, and always appreciates being loved on and petted.
Then I remembered something someone once pointed out: DOG is GOD spelled backward. As I thought about it, that's not all that far off base. Dogs (or at least the ones I've known) aren't fickle; they don't love you one moment and move on to someone different the next. They love unconditionally, no matter who you are, how unattractive you may look in the morning or how badly you've messed up.
God loves us that way, too. It seems like dogs, and perhaps some of our other pets, do a better job sometimes representing Him in the world than we humans do. And we're supposed to be the intelligent ones.
Could the answer for humanity and how we should treat one another lie in our pets? Should I just get a dog? I'm just asking...
Then I remembered something someone once pointed out: DOG is GOD spelled backward. As I thought about it, that's not all that far off base. Dogs (or at least the ones I've known) aren't fickle; they don't love you one moment and move on to someone different the next. They love unconditionally, no matter who you are, how unattractive you may look in the morning or how badly you've messed up.
God loves us that way, too. It seems like dogs, and perhaps some of our other pets, do a better job sometimes representing Him in the world than we humans do. And we're supposed to be the intelligent ones.
Could the answer for humanity and how we should treat one another lie in our pets? Should I just get a dog? I'm just asking...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Network, Network, Network
I've been too busy to post here lately, I guess. I've been otherwise occupied...networking. So many of these online social networks have been popping up these days. I think I am in about 10 of them right now. I've been set up in the obvious ones for awhile--My Space and Facebook--but I'm also in a handful of music business related ones. I've also been out almost every night in the week at music events. I've never had so much fun.
I must say that it does work well for meeting people here in Nashville. The one piece of advice I've gotten the most since I came here was to network. 'Course, if I were that good, I'd have a job by now, I suppose. But the value for me in it all is not so much the professional aspect as it has been the personal. I now can go to a number of writers nights and such around here and know a bunch of people, and most of all feel included. That's huge for me.
Another advantage of these networks is you can find people you've lost touch with. I re-found a lot of my old southern gospel music friends recently. I had to leave the Gaither.com site I was part of for many years when the price of their old community became unaffordable to me. I was glad the Gaither site decided to be more in line with other networks and go with a free Ning network community. It's been a lot like being a prodigal returning home.
So now if you'll excuse me, I need to update my status and answer those messages...
I must say that it does work well for meeting people here in Nashville. The one piece of advice I've gotten the most since I came here was to network. 'Course, if I were that good, I'd have a job by now, I suppose. But the value for me in it all is not so much the professional aspect as it has been the personal. I now can go to a number of writers nights and such around here and know a bunch of people, and most of all feel included. That's huge for me.
Another advantage of these networks is you can find people you've lost touch with. I re-found a lot of my old southern gospel music friends recently. I had to leave the Gaither.com site I was part of for many years when the price of their old community became unaffordable to me. I was glad the Gaither site decided to be more in line with other networks and go with a free Ning network community. It's been a lot like being a prodigal returning home.
So now if you'll excuse me, I need to update my status and answer those messages...
Friday, January 16, 2009
TN or MN?
Once again, as I see I did last year, I find myself wondering if I am in Tennessee or back in Minnesota with these cold temperatures. This same time last year I wrote an entry or two about temperatures here in Nashville as cold as in MN. This year, though, it's a little worse. I am keeping in mind of course that we are technically above zero, which would be a heat wave right now in the Twin Cities. But I guess my blood thinned out pretty fast after living here for a bit. I just wish I hadn't given away my long johns. I am also getting nostalgic for the "big black bear" coat.
On top of that, there is something wrong with my condo. It's cold. Cold air is coming from everywhere. I've tried the light the candle to find the draft thing, but it's a steady flame. I think it's coming from some place I don't have the money to try to fix. So I guess I am going to suck up those high electric bills somehow for the next couple more months. Not a good time for that, either.
Ah well--this too shall pass.
On top of that, there is something wrong with my condo. It's cold. Cold air is coming from everywhere. I've tried the light the candle to find the draft thing, but it's a steady flame. I think it's coming from some place I don't have the money to try to fix. So I guess I am going to suck up those high electric bills somehow for the next couple more months. Not a good time for that, either.
Ah well--this too shall pass.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Big Southern Gospel News...
Well, all the Southern Gospel bloggers are weighing in on the biggest buzz out there since yesterday. I know friends and others will be looking for my opinion, so I will weigh in on this as well. There's been a major shakeup in the Gaither Vocal Band, with the revamped lineup being Mark Lowry, David Phelps, Michael English, Wes Hampton and of course, Bill. Guy Penrod and Marsh Hall have exited the group. Here's my $.02 and change:
- My guess is either the GVB reunion video or the Guy Penrod substitute rotations, or both, sparked the fire for these guys and made the group experience fresh once again.
- I knew when I saw all those Gaither Homecoming dates suddenly appearing on Mark's schedule that something was up. I thought perhaps Mark was continuing to cover the Penrod hiatus, which is of course now permanent. Big change for sure for Mark and some of the people that support him. I am happy, though, that Mark's new solo release, "Life Gets Loud", was not a casualty of this change...it will be out in February. I'm anxious to hear it, particularly some songs written by a couple of Nashville songwriter friends of mine, Steve Christopher and Scooter Simmons, that Mark covers.
- It will be fabulous to hear David back in the group and knocking that range into the stratosphere.
- It is a compliment to Wes Hampton that he remains in the lineup. I'm glad for him...he's a fine singer and one of the most down to earth, sweet persons I've met in this circle.
- Sorry that Marsh will be gone, but he will be fine. He's a great singer and I was a fan of his before he joined the Vocal Band. He's done some good work with Benjy Gaither on their CD "Songwriters". But you know, if I had to choose between baritones it would just have to be Mark.
- I will certainly be looking forward to a Guy solo project. I also wonder if he will eventually put together a family group--the kids sing and the harmony I've heard them do in his video was quite good.
- I'd only heard the Michael English era of the GVB in video clips, so I will be up for hearing him back in the fold. My good thoughts and prayers are with him and Marcie in this musical and life change.
It should be our turn here in Nashville to get the Gaither Homecoming Christmas show this year, so unless I get a chance to hear the group live before then (doubtful, since I've more or less "retired" from concert travel), I'll be waiting on that concert.
- My guess is either the GVB reunion video or the Guy Penrod substitute rotations, or both, sparked the fire for these guys and made the group experience fresh once again.
- I knew when I saw all those Gaither Homecoming dates suddenly appearing on Mark's schedule that something was up. I thought perhaps Mark was continuing to cover the Penrod hiatus, which is of course now permanent. Big change for sure for Mark and some of the people that support him. I am happy, though, that Mark's new solo release, "Life Gets Loud", was not a casualty of this change...it will be out in February. I'm anxious to hear it, particularly some songs written by a couple of Nashville songwriter friends of mine, Steve Christopher and Scooter Simmons, that Mark covers.
- It will be fabulous to hear David back in the group and knocking that range into the stratosphere.
- It is a compliment to Wes Hampton that he remains in the lineup. I'm glad for him...he's a fine singer and one of the most down to earth, sweet persons I've met in this circle.
- Sorry that Marsh will be gone, but he will be fine. He's a great singer and I was a fan of his before he joined the Vocal Band. He's done some good work with Benjy Gaither on their CD "Songwriters". But you know, if I had to choose between baritones it would just have to be Mark.
- I will certainly be looking forward to a Guy solo project. I also wonder if he will eventually put together a family group--the kids sing and the harmony I've heard them do in his video was quite good.
- I'd only heard the Michael English era of the GVB in video clips, so I will be up for hearing him back in the fold. My good thoughts and prayers are with him and Marcie in this musical and life change.
It should be our turn here in Nashville to get the Gaither Homecoming Christmas show this year, so unless I get a chance to hear the group live before then (doubtful, since I've more or less "retired" from concert travel), I'll be waiting on that concert.
Friday, January 02, 2009
Sad Goodbye
The first post here of this year is, unfortunately, a sad one. My mom passed away peacefully in her sleep Thursday evening in CT. She was 89. She had been ill for a long time, so we were expecting the news. She now joins my dad in heaven.
The tribute page for both my mom and dad can be found here if you are interested.
The tribute page for both my mom and dad can be found here if you are interested.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Pot, Meet Kettle
That's a recent way I've heard this phrase. My mom always said, "Pot calling the kettle black." Anyhow, it describes one of my pet peeves. That's when someone calls you out for doing something wrong, or not doing something that was supposed to be done, and then they go and create the same offense themselves.
I talked about an example of this when I did my audiobook "Treasures In the Tip Jar" (which is available on CDBaby!). There were some interesting fan behaviors that people would criticize in blogs or message boards...then I'd observe the offenders doing the same things in concert settings.
I had one of these "pot, meet kettle" things happen this past week. I got ripped for supposedly neglecting to do something...and then the same person didn't do this when in a similar situation. My problem is I'm so dang nice and go to any lengths to avoid confrontation in minor things that I really should use that phrase more often toward such offenders...but I don't.
Instead, I'll just have the satisfaction of knowing that other people are just as imperfect as I am...and be kinder to myself. As we should all be to ourselves.
I talked about an example of this when I did my audiobook "Treasures In the Tip Jar" (which is available on CDBaby!). There were some interesting fan behaviors that people would criticize in blogs or message boards...then I'd observe the offenders doing the same things in concert settings.
I had one of these "pot, meet kettle" things happen this past week. I got ripped for supposedly neglecting to do something...and then the same person didn't do this when in a similar situation. My problem is I'm so dang nice and go to any lengths to avoid confrontation in minor things that I really should use that phrase more often toward such offenders...but I don't.
Instead, I'll just have the satisfaction of knowing that other people are just as imperfect as I am...and be kinder to myself. As we should all be to ourselves.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Holy Cow...There IS A Santa Claus!
So I'm at Doak Turner's 3rd Sunday songwriter get-together and about to leave to head over to stop at my church group's Christmas gathering. Doak pulls me aside and says, "you know what you've won, right?". Um...no. I knew I had entered the Nashville Muse contest for December with a number of prizes but hadn't heard that I'd won anything. Well, we go into a side room and there are boxes of Epiphone guitars signed by Anastasia Brown (whose book I just checked out of the library)...and I had won one of them! I've thought about learning guitar or mandolin someday but of course am in no position to buy either. Now I had my own guitar.
OK my songwriter friends, here I come, LOL. Once I learn to play this thing (Anyone in Nashville giving free lessons these days? Can't afford lessons now either...), I'm gonna start writing down the ideas and fragments of lyrics that pop up in my head at times and I'm getting me a co-writer. One thing, though: somebody else is gonna sing, because I'm not. I can't and I'm too phobic.
Yes, Virginia, there is indeed a Santa Claus. Thanks, Doak.
OK my songwriter friends, here I come, LOL. Once I learn to play this thing (Anyone in Nashville giving free lessons these days? Can't afford lessons now either...), I'm gonna start writing down the ideas and fragments of lyrics that pop up in my head at times and I'm getting me a co-writer. One thing, though: somebody else is gonna sing, because I'm not. I can't and I'm too phobic.
Yes, Virginia, there is indeed a Santa Claus. Thanks, Doak.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Year End Wrap 2008
(Following is the text of my podcast episode #26 - Year End Wrap 2008. I included the podcast link with my e-cards and am providing the text here for those who aren't able to play it.)
Well, we are about at the end of another year. Last year I did a "Year End Wrap" podcast and for the life of me I don't know why, but that ended up being one of my most popular shows for this year. So why argue with success—I figure let's do another one and I can also send a link to all the folks I send holiday wishes to instead of reading one of those annual letters (and maybe they will go out and listen to another podcast or two, ha ha ha!). OK, well, speaking of the podcast, my stats for this past year are showing me at about 18,000 hits which is double what I did last year (probably because I did more podcasts), and over 6,000 downloads that I know of. I also remained in the top 10 of my host site Cyberears' most listened to podcasts. So thanks to all who have listened.
It's been an amazing ride this year. It was my first full year here in Nashville. I'm still thrilled to be here and life for the most part has been pretty awesome. I had one major life change. I did something I swore I wouldn't do again...which is, I bought a home. But this time, no 100 year old single family house for me—I bought a condo which had pretty much new everything. What brought that about was the rising cost of rent and wanting to keep up one of my health practices, that is, use my mini-trampoline rebounder whenever I wanted to without noise complaints. So I found the place of my dreams west of the city –it's a lovely area that I wish I'd moved to when I first got here, but all things in their time, I guess. Also, I finally have the home office that I wanted for so long. I also am blessed with wonderful neighbors this time around.
I thought once I'd bought this place I'd be done with the long commute to work I'd been having. But as it turned out, I ended up with...no commute. I was laid off of my job one week after I closed on my condo. I'm grateful for this timing if it had to be since it would have blown my deal and I'd have lost out on my home had it been sooner. But you know, in this period, it's been some of the most wonderful times of my life. I started freelancing and doing musician promotion here and there, I got to experience some things I wouldn't have been able to do with a normal 9-5 schedule, and through it all the good Lord's been providing all my needs. I know a lot of us are in the same boat, so I continue to live in the present moment and remain hopeful each day.
One other significant thing happened this year. I walked into my local library and I found a flyer for Radio Free Nashville, a community radio station. It said "want to be on the radio?" Those of you who follow me know the answer to that one—well, yeah! At first I proposed doing a Sunday morning southern gospel show focusing on the music as a genre, but being that Radio Free Nashville is a station with a mission of representing the unrepresented, that idea didn't go down here in the buckle of the Bible belt. So I went with my alternative idea, which turned out to be a show I called "Never Too Old". It's a mix of oldies, reflective nostalgia, and some more current music made by folks of the "baby boomer" generation-- being squeezed out of mainstream radio these days. I found a slot on the Saturday schedule and also began a blog concurrent with the show (which makes my blog total out on the net at about 5 now, I think). It's been fun, and it's had its personal and musical rewards beyond anything monetary if I was paid for it (it's all volunteer) but it hasn't always been easy. I struggled with meeting my own standards and feeling worthy of airing alongside some folks on each side of my show doing some brilliant stuff. But I made some changes and decided to go with using what works—basically, writing my show. I also decided to include some of my encouragement pieces which may be of comfort for those of us in the baby boomer generation particularly feeling the pinch of the hard times. So now I'm starting to find my own voice, and it's challenged me creatively as well. I have also since kicked myself for giving away a lot of my vinyl and other items in my music collection which I sacrificed to make the move out here. Hey, I didn't know I was going to end up doing an oldies show, or I'd have kept more stuff! God's interesting sometimes.
Of course the biggest part of my life out here is being able to do what I came out here to do, which is to support and encourage singer/songwriters and other musicians here in Nashville. I had much to write about in my Wendy V's Nashville Blend blog over this year. I've been amazingly blessed to find some incredible talent out here, and made some dear new friends among them. These artists rewarded me over and over again by taking this non-music maker to heart and my mission seriously. Again, my fears that people here didn't need my brand of encouragement were largely unfounded. I instead found a community of artists hungry for support and affirmation in situations that some described as "sometimes feeling like December in July". I also heard stories of rejection, redemption and the ongoing quest for the dream that started to make me feel as if I'd been broken open inside, as if layers had been peeled off me. I felt myself becoming openly compassionate and I'm pretty sure that some of the tears that poured forth weren't due to change of life swings.
My faith continues to be the center of my life. My church family has been a great support to me and we're all looking forward to moving into our new home after years of meeting in a school gym. I also found a sweet prayer group run by some musician friends that I'll plan to visit when I can. This year I was part of one event, the Middle Tennessee Women's Retreat, which came along at the right time with a message which I needed. I also had a great experience once again being the "official blogger" for this year's Mark Lowry's Spring Fling Senior Trip event out at Opryland Hotel –I was proud of the work I did on the blog and humbled by the response it got.
So there's my year. It's been a blessing amidst the present challenges. The plan continues to live one day at a time, put one foot in front of the other, be thankful that I can do that and remember who's ultimately in control. If you want to keep up with me, you know where to go...head to my website at www.wendyv.com and click on the blog links.
Well, we are about at the end of another year. Last year I did a "Year End Wrap" podcast and for the life of me I don't know why, but that ended up being one of my most popular shows for this year. So why argue with success—I figure let's do another one and I can also send a link to all the folks I send holiday wishes to instead of reading one of those annual letters (and maybe they will go out and listen to another podcast or two, ha ha ha!). OK, well, speaking of the podcast, my stats for this past year are showing me at about 18,000 hits which is double what I did last year (probably because I did more podcasts), and over 6,000 downloads that I know of. I also remained in the top 10 of my host site Cyberears' most listened to podcasts. So thanks to all who have listened.
It's been an amazing ride this year. It was my first full year here in Nashville. I'm still thrilled to be here and life for the most part has been pretty awesome. I had one major life change. I did something I swore I wouldn't do again...which is, I bought a home. But this time, no 100 year old single family house for me—I bought a condo which had pretty much new everything. What brought that about was the rising cost of rent and wanting to keep up one of my health practices, that is, use my mini-trampoline rebounder whenever I wanted to without noise complaints. So I found the place of my dreams west of the city –it's a lovely area that I wish I'd moved to when I first got here, but all things in their time, I guess. Also, I finally have the home office that I wanted for so long. I also am blessed with wonderful neighbors this time around.
I thought once I'd bought this place I'd be done with the long commute to work I'd been having. But as it turned out, I ended up with...no commute. I was laid off of my job one week after I closed on my condo. I'm grateful for this timing if it had to be since it would have blown my deal and I'd have lost out on my home had it been sooner. But you know, in this period, it's been some of the most wonderful times of my life. I started freelancing and doing musician promotion here and there, I got to experience some things I wouldn't have been able to do with a normal 9-5 schedule, and through it all the good Lord's been providing all my needs. I know a lot of us are in the same boat, so I continue to live in the present moment and remain hopeful each day.
One other significant thing happened this year. I walked into my local library and I found a flyer for Radio Free Nashville, a community radio station. It said "want to be on the radio?" Those of you who follow me know the answer to that one—well, yeah! At first I proposed doing a Sunday morning southern gospel show focusing on the music as a genre, but being that Radio Free Nashville is a station with a mission of representing the unrepresented, that idea didn't go down here in the buckle of the Bible belt. So I went with my alternative idea, which turned out to be a show I called "Never Too Old". It's a mix of oldies, reflective nostalgia, and some more current music made by folks of the "baby boomer" generation-- being squeezed out of mainstream radio these days. I found a slot on the Saturday schedule and also began a blog concurrent with the show (which makes my blog total out on the net at about 5 now, I think). It's been fun, and it's had its personal and musical rewards beyond anything monetary if I was paid for it (it's all volunteer) but it hasn't always been easy. I struggled with meeting my own standards and feeling worthy of airing alongside some folks on each side of my show doing some brilliant stuff. But I made some changes and decided to go with using what works—basically, writing my show. I also decided to include some of my encouragement pieces which may be of comfort for those of us in the baby boomer generation particularly feeling the pinch of the hard times. So now I'm starting to find my own voice, and it's challenged me creatively as well. I have also since kicked myself for giving away a lot of my vinyl and other items in my music collection which I sacrificed to make the move out here. Hey, I didn't know I was going to end up doing an oldies show, or I'd have kept more stuff! God's interesting sometimes.
Of course the biggest part of my life out here is being able to do what I came out here to do, which is to support and encourage singer/songwriters and other musicians here in Nashville. I had much to write about in my Wendy V's Nashville Blend blog over this year. I've been amazingly blessed to find some incredible talent out here, and made some dear new friends among them. These artists rewarded me over and over again by taking this non-music maker to heart and my mission seriously. Again, my fears that people here didn't need my brand of encouragement were largely unfounded. I instead found a community of artists hungry for support and affirmation in situations that some described as "sometimes feeling like December in July". I also heard stories of rejection, redemption and the ongoing quest for the dream that started to make me feel as if I'd been broken open inside, as if layers had been peeled off me. I felt myself becoming openly compassionate and I'm pretty sure that some of the tears that poured forth weren't due to change of life swings.
My faith continues to be the center of my life. My church family has been a great support to me and we're all looking forward to moving into our new home after years of meeting in a school gym. I also found a sweet prayer group run by some musician friends that I'll plan to visit when I can. This year I was part of one event, the Middle Tennessee Women's Retreat, which came along at the right time with a message which I needed. I also had a great experience once again being the "official blogger" for this year's Mark Lowry's Spring Fling Senior Trip event out at Opryland Hotel –I was proud of the work I did on the blog and humbled by the response it got.
So there's my year. It's been a blessing amidst the present challenges. The plan continues to live one day at a time, put one foot in front of the other, be thankful that I can do that and remember who's ultimately in control. If you want to keep up with me, you know where to go...head to my website at www.wendyv.com and click on the blog links.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Another Radio Goodbye...
This week, as I noted previously, we prepared to say a goodbye to the Morning Show on Minnesota Public Radio as we knew it. I cried through the farewell show with listeners from far and wide...not just those in the Fitzgerald Theater audience, or my former fellow Minnesotans, but around the country and around the world. Truly amazing but not surprising, and well deserved.
But with the cancellation news came some healing for our hearts later on, as Dale Connelly will continue the tradition and spirit of the show with a new streaming web and HD radio venture at MPR called Radio Heartland. The people spoke loudly and were rewarded. Welcome to your new home, my friend.
I would be remiss, though, to not make note of the fact that also last week in the Twin Cities, another iconic radio show was lost to us. My dear friend TD Mischke was let go from his long time show at KSTP-AM. The firing happened one day after Tommy's successful CD release party. Many of us are still scratching our heads. The outpouring of support's been emotional and well it should be. His show's been recognized as one of radio's most creative and original and has a loyal fan base.
But maybe, like me, sometimes it's time to "leave home". With it comes a chance to flourish in a new setting and become something personally and creatively you might never have if you had stayed. It happened for me, and I pray the same for Dale and Tommy...I'm sure it will.
But with the cancellation news came some healing for our hearts later on, as Dale Connelly will continue the tradition and spirit of the show with a new streaming web and HD radio venture at MPR called Radio Heartland. The people spoke loudly and were rewarded. Welcome to your new home, my friend.
I would be remiss, though, to not make note of the fact that also last week in the Twin Cities, another iconic radio show was lost to us. My dear friend TD Mischke was let go from his long time show at KSTP-AM. The firing happened one day after Tommy's successful CD release party. Many of us are still scratching our heads. The outpouring of support's been emotional and well it should be. His show's been recognized as one of radio's most creative and original and has a loyal fan base.
But maybe, like me, sometimes it's time to "leave home". With it comes a chance to flourish in a new setting and become something personally and creatively you might never have if you had stayed. It happened for me, and I pray the same for Dale and Tommy...I'm sure it will.
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