Seven Days: The Country Giant

Thanks John Sweetman for sending me this. It was lovely to see everybody again. You might recall I was there probably that same year, a few times during summer, as a DJ. Glenn offered me the part-time work and I drove down from Auckland and stayed there. What a fabulous place to stay, right on the beach in this beautiful location. Everyone was so friendly. I recognize John's face. I also remember Les. Everyone was great. I hope Ronnie is as genuine as he was back then. He was one of the most humble people I ever met in broadcasting. He was warm, funny, home loving, and obviously family loving. He had natural talent. He cared about people and that warmth came across. Listeners respond to that as much as a technically "tight" show and all the right jokes. I wish all these guys well and thank them, especially Glenn, for giving me my second part-time job in commercial radio back then, while I was at university.

To anyone reading this, don't be deterred by the comment that being a DJ doesn't prepare you for other work. John Sweetman and I can attest that it leads to a great many other opportunities. For me, those have included being a reporter, editor, assignment editor, talk show host and also working in media relations, political campaign work, public speaking, etc. That's by way of encouragement to anyone who has done the work or wants to. Being a DJ will take you places too .... out into the community for live broadcasts perhaps. It will help you learn how to interact with people and give you confidence. Those two factors lead to lots more. Onward! -- Julie Pendray xoxoxo

A little beauty - and so honest. Well done.