alumni profiles

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor:

The story about WUFT-FM’s 20th anniversary in the Fall 2001 issue brought back many happy memories of the years I worked at the station. I was the second announcer on the air that first day, Sept. 27, 1981, and I still remember making the first on-air mistake! My shift followed Ali Henderson, who was her usual flawless self. After the first words I uttered, I forgot to the turn the mike off, and said something inane on the air, along the lines of: “Hey, Why can’t I hear anything???” Our music director, Norm Gilliland, raced in the control room, turned off my mike and said, “That’s why!”

I switched my major from broadcasting to print journalism soon after that, but I continued to work at WUFT-FM. During the two years I worked there, I was given a lot of responsibility and learned a lot. The most important lesson I learned is something I still live by today: You only have time to do this job once, so do it right the first time.

My husband (a Missouri journalism grad), three kids and I live in Palm Beach County, and we travel through WUFT’s broadcast area frequently. We always tune in to Classic 89, and I am comforted to hear that students are still being taught to do their jobs right the first time.

Joni Sand, JM 1983

Dear Editor:

A lot has happened regarding my book (Tickles Tabitha’s Cancer-Tankerous Mommy featured in Fall 2001 issue)—it’s been a roller coaster ride. A textbook case of what can go wrong in the world of PR that I’m sure you will appreciate.

Beginning with the good news, I was invited to appear on the Rosie O’Donnell Show in October. It was a go even after Sept. 11th. Then anthrax was found at NBC and Rosie cancelled all of her shows that week…

Then a local in-depth interview was postponed. The day it was to take place was the day America bombed Afghanistan. I’m still waiting to be re-scheduled.

Most recently a PBS station which had wanted me for a guest on a Health Show called to say due to last year’s events, they hadn’t received funding and the show was cancelled.

Despite all this, I’ve managed to survive my first year as a publisher—even sell a few books. I’ve reasons to be optimistic. I managed to grasp some attention despite a year when the news is devoted to Terrorism and Afghanistan.

Recently I was elected to the National Cancer Survivors 2002 Speakers Bureau. When it comes to surviving, I’m certainly well-versed, in more ways than one. Without a sense of humor, what fun would it be?

Amelia Solomon Frahm, PR 1981