KINDA PROUD OF THE KID!

ABA Hall of Fame Induction
October 16, 2008

WOW! Thank you so much. I knew this moment was coming for a while, but it is just now hitting me that it is really happening. I am so honored to be in the company of so many legendary names and also to be in the same company of many former co-workers and close friends. I especially want to recognize some of these co-workers and friends from over the years who are also Hall of Fame members. First, a person who was more than a boss. He is my first true Mentor, Jim Slone (2001). Jim planned to be here tonight but sustained an injury playing racquetball. He really did. He has forgotten he is in his 70’s.

I have been what I call “Times Two Lucky” in so many ways.

I am Times Two Lucky for having two different and separate careers during my two times in Tucson. One in radio as an air-personality and another one as a television station General Manager. I hope my career has started and ended at a station called K-O-L-D. I have been in this uniquely fun business for 43 years now. I can tell you this. The 43rd is the hardest.
My memories are stronger from radio. It was a more fun time with less responsibility. Just play records and try to be funny.

My stand-out memory is winning Billboard’s Grand International Station of the Year Award in 1976. Hall of Famer Bill Heywood announced K-C-U-B, Tucson as the winner! This memory will always top my list. That group from K-CUB enjoys a mutual bond like what I imagine championship sports teams enjoy. It is truly a lifetime memory and there is now a lifetime of lasting friendships, no matter where we are or how seldom we see each other.

I have been two times lucky in two marriages. Ruthye is with me tonight as both my first wife and my second wife. For 36 of the last 40 years we have hung in there together despite ourselves. I think we got it right this time. I love you! And, I thank you!

I am two times lucky by having two older brothers. My oldest brother Sam is here with me tonight. Sam, and my other brother Terry, are probably the world’s two most surprised people at my receiving this honor.

I am two times lucky in that Ruth and I have two children. I am honored that both of them here with me tonight. Our daughter Kristin is visiting from Roswell, NM where she and her husband, Craig, are raising four boys! Our newest grandson, Samuel, now ten months, is here with his mom. [Stand up]. She and Craig are also parents to Holden (13), Noah (10) and Joseph (6). I love you.

Our second piece of luck is our son Jeffrey. He wishes I wouldn’t
call him Jeffrey.

Jeff is my hero. And I truly mean my HERO. Off and on for 30 of his 32 years he has battled a brain tumor. Since 2001, he has lost most of his vision. It interrupted a promising career in the corporate offices of the Texas Rangers baseball team and the Dallas Stars hockey team. But that hasn’t stopped him. With the help of wonderful technology, he now works in group sales and development for the University of Arizona Department of Athletics.

During all his time battling the tumor- which just won’t go away- he has kept his faith, wonderful personality and positive attitude. But most of all he has kept his spirit. Those of us here who are blessed to know our Jeff know why he is my HERO. I am proud to be your father.
I tell you about my family and friends tonight because I am two times honored. I am most honored to a part of their lives.

Being inducted into the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame is the next most wonderful honor. I thank you all so much. I am truly very happy and very humbled.

Have a nice day!

Sam