A Bigger Than Life Loss

There was a time when young broadcasters learned their craft from those who preceded them and would drink in every word, nuance, and gram of subtext. That was the way I learned from WIBC Indianapolis newsman Lou Palmer.


Before I was fortunate enough to work at WIBC, I was a huge fan of Lou's phrasing, writing, and on-air personality. After starting at WIBC, I was able to work near Lou, too afraid to get too close to such a titan (at least in my view) lest I get told to get lost. But with time I was able to befriend him, learning about radio and life at the same time. The afternoons spent in the WIBC newsroom on North Meridian in Indianapolis were every bit as valuable and enjoyable as any other education I ever had, and I'll always treasure them.


Lou was bigger than life and once he decided he liked you, would talk for hours in his unique way, literally mesmerizing the people in the newsroom at the Two Story Brick On North Illinois, in the press room at the old Speedway control tower, or at 9292. His "Lou Palmer And Friends" show in the 70's was one of the most entertaining and inspiring shows this young broadcaster listened to. I feel fortunate to have shared time with him and to have learned at his feet.


His descriptive terms and news opens were legendary. Whether it was time to "hit the money button" or my favorite news open "Tenerife Island, two 747's, crunch", he had a way with words, a way with life, and a way of leaving a truly lasting impression.

Its odd, I was thinking of Lou on Saturday, the day he died. I guess I waited too long to look him up and let him know what I was up to.

RIP Lou. Give my best to Riley.

Click on the headline to see the Indianapolis Star's story on the life and times of Lou Palmer.

Fear The Cubs. THIS Is The Year Of The Cubs

Now that the record people are calling me incessantly, I can only assume the new year has begun. And what a year it will be. This year, we’ll see history made in early November. After a long and grueling campaign, the ultimate payoff will be made. What so many said would never happen will indeed happen. The pundits will be proven wrong, Americans will be either shocked or jubilant, and things in this country will never be the same.

Of course, I’m speaking of the upcoming World Series victory of the Chicago Cubs. It’s now been 100 years since the Northsiders have won the Fall classic, and they will commemorate the anniversary by playing the 2008 Cubs Centennial Celebration Season®. After coming oh so close last year, the ultimate prize will be won by Chicago’s Team Of Destiny.

I invite you to join me on the Cubs Bandwagon while there is still room. You don’t want to join up in September and be placed in the third trailer, the one that used to haul horses to the glue factory. You want to be right up front with me and other lifelong Cubs fans who know why we’ve waited so long to taste the cheap champagne and hold the World Series trophy over our booze soaked heads. You know you want the Cubs to win. You know its their year of DESTINY.

Please watch this space for updates on the Cubs Centennial Celebration Season. I have to go visit Britney now. Please pray for her.

Happy 2008!

I sent this quote to many friends on New Year's Eve. It deserves to be shared here for those I may have missed or those who aren't friends yet.

I wish you Health...So you may enjoy each day in comfort.

I wish you the Love of friends and family...And Peace within your heart.

I wish you the Beauty of nature...That you may enjoy the work of God.

I wish you Wisdom to choose priorities...For those things that really matter in life.

I wish you Generosity so you may share...All good things that come to you.

I wish you Happiness and Joy...And Blessings for the New Year.

I wish you the best of everything...That you so well deserve.

HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIEND!

Here's to nothing but the best in the year ahead. I know it sounds geeky, but I'm looking forward to a GREAT 2008.