Dropping a bombshell...

[romefan]

"And there goes the last DJ
Who plays what he wants to play
And says what he wants to say"

- Tom Petty

To make it official and before the rumors start flying, I was let go by Q94 today. The parent company cited low sales revenue and budgetary concerns for the decision.

Although I'm obviously disappointed with this development, I wasn't all that surprised by it. I had a suspicion it might eventually come to this as far back as last summer, when we were informed that the station was partially switching over to a satellite automation system when we moved into the new building. We had been hearing rumblings about low sales revenue since, and that more budget cuts were likely. I hoped I wouldn't be one of them, but I also knew that the satellite system made local announcers like me expendable.

I will post the official word on the "Backyard Rocker's" future (or lack thereof) within the next few days.

As for my immediate future, I'll be pounding the pavement and the internet to see what's out there. Although I won't rule out a return to commercial radio airwaves, I intend to explore other options first. I've had a good 25-year run in local radio, and achieved much of what I wanted when I first started in this business. At this point, any potential radio position would have to be an ideal situation for me to want to jump back into it, and I'm not holding my breath that such a situation will again open up in the Altoona market. So for the moment, consider me at least semi-retired from commercial radio.

I will continue to cover the area music scene in Pennsylvania Musician Magazine, as well as continue my blogs and CD reviews in the Altoona Mirror, barring any future employment-related scenarios that would prohibit me from doing so.

Finally, I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me over the years...All the listeners who have shared kind words with me over the years, the area music scene for its support of the "Backyard Rocker" (if indeed the show doesn't continue), as well as Adam, Diane and all my past co-workers for the fun while it lasted.

"The Last DJ," signing off...

Jim--That's too bad about you getting clipped.I remember talking while ago about how the satellite guy may take your time slot. I'm sure with your skill set and the contacts you know, you'll be stepping your game up before long. Who knows...maybe one day you'll keep a private jet!! Out.

[sunsetbass]

Sad day in altoona. I guess i'm gonna have to change the station. the only reason i tuned to the Q was for the professor.

i got an idea for a new career for you jp.


JP FOR PRESIDENT

we can all write him in.

[zman1200]

One door closes another one opens. Take Care and God Bless. Tom.Z

[Rockyman1049]

Rumor has it Jim might be soon working for Rocky 104.9.

[Banned]

That would be Awesome!

[Dark Soul]

I'm not afraid to say that this certainly isn't the first time the "Q" has done something stupid. I'm sorry they let you go, JP, but it's their loss. Always been a fan.

Always room for bigger and better things, right? Stay cool.

~Max

[YankeeRose]

"And there goes the last DJ, who plays what he wants to play and says what he wants to say."




As others have said (and nothing against Adam, Craig or other local Q DJs), you ARE Q94 and I can't help but feel they'll regret letting you go. The BEST to you with what ever path you choose!!!