Toronto- The last time I got news like this, I was also in Canada, covering the Whalers 7th game of the 1992 Stanley Cup series against Montreal. I was working at WPOP and heard from friends at the station that three colleagues were being let go. It was a sad day, even before the Whale lost, what turned out to be their final playoff game ever represeting Hartford.
Today, I am in Toronto, having arrived today with the UConn football party for Saturday's International Bowl against Buffalo.
Only a couple of hours ago, I received word of the dismissal of my friends and colleagues Diane Smith and Colin McEnroe. Again, it has left me numb.
Diane has become a friend during her nine years at the station. Her professionalism , intelligence and humor have worked well with Ray. She has learned the radio buisness like few others from the world of television (Kevin being one of the other ones who has done so). Always a smile, always pleasant, we have been graced by her prescence.
I could write for HOURS about Mc Enroe. Yes, when he first started with Bruce Stevens, I wasn't sure I would like him. Too smart for me, too much an eliteist (sp). Well, those are both true (ha) but in the time we have shared the afternoon hours, I have grown to respect him and enjoy every day we have worked together. (Ok, almost everyday, the Derek Jeter flap was a small fly in the ointment).Colin is brilliant, funny, compassionate and most of all a great person. It was Colin who created Sports A Dex, the very french sports segment, hosted so ably by Louis Gascon de Lemaire. (or something like that). It was Colin who created "Ask Mr Ambrosia". It was through Colin that I got involved with CARC, one of the best charities in our area. His impact has been immense.
But he still owes me three SportsTalk shows for Giants 20-Packers 17. Put it on my tab.
To Diane Smith and Colin McEnroe, thanks for making WTIC better and thanks for being friends, friendship that I hope will continue beyond your final day at 1080.
