Over these next few days, I'll be able to watch teams like Minnesota, Notre Dame, Tennessee and Arizona State play at the Ferrell Center in either men's or women's basketball.
This is so much fun to be involved.
I just returned from a media session and interviewed Lady Bears star Brittney Griner, and we'll get a Bears player on today's show around 3:00pm.
Smoaky
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Mexia's Gentry commits to Purdue University
I thought this would interest a few people.
Mexia running back Doug Gentry, 6-1, 198, 4.5, has given his verbal commitment to Purdue University. Gentry ran for 1,108-yards and 19-TD's during his senior season and finished his career with 4,801-yards his last three years at Mexia including 58-TD's.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Smoaky
Mexia running back Doug Gentry, 6-1, 198, 4.5, has given his verbal commitment to Purdue University. Gentry ran for 1,108-yards and 19-TD's during his senior season and finished his career with 4,801-yards his last three years at Mexia including 58-TD's.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Smoaky
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
1660ESPN Radio "Golf Course"
As some of you know, our new radio station building overlooks Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, #16 green is just to our left, and #17 is straight in front of my desk.
I've been watching one player after another hit shots throughout the last six weeks since we arrived at this location.
Finally, with the holidays upon and nothing else to do, and basically most everyone from our stations on vacation, I couldn't resist.
I brought my 3-wood and driver to work today with a handful of golf balls.
Yes, I did it.
I took some shots from just outside the door from my office and started banging away at the #17 green. My first shot went up the front of the green but rolled off left. The last 3-shots ended up with the fish in the pond that is left of the 17th-green.
I'm about to dig out another sleeve of golf balls from my trunk and fire away.
Update coming soon.
David Smoak
I've been watching one player after another hit shots throughout the last six weeks since we arrived at this location.
Finally, with the holidays upon and nothing else to do, and basically most everyone from our stations on vacation, I couldn't resist.
I brought my 3-wood and driver to work today with a handful of golf balls.
Yes, I did it.
I took some shots from just outside the door from my office and started banging away at the #17 green. My first shot went up the front of the green but rolled off left. The last 3-shots ended up with the fish in the pond that is left of the 17th-green.
I'm about to dig out another sleeve of golf balls from my trunk and fire away.
Update coming soon.
David Smoak
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A lot to be thankful for as we hit the holidays...
Butch Henry, Paul Catalina and I will host "You Make The Call" on Wednesday and then head into the Thanksgiving weekend.
I'm so thankful to be in Waco and Central Texas and Butch, Paul, and so many others have made my transition from Tyler to ESPN-Dallas to ESPN-Waco very enjoyable.
I can't explain the camaraderie we have among our stations, 1660ESPN, Mix929 and 1049The Beat.
From the first day I arrived (June 22nd), I've felt apart of a tremendous family.
I remember the first meeting with our GM (Bill LeGrand) and our sales department and that seems like just yesterday. I remember Mix929 Program Director Dustin Drew and 1049The Beat Program Director Edward Graham taking me out for dinner that night and just chilling out and talking about our plans as a group.
Those two never met me before that day and they treated me like family. I'll never forget their immediate hospitality.
I remember walking to Cricket's sports bar with our owner, Gary Moss, before meeting with everyone and John Morris, "Voice of the Baylor Bears" yelled my name across the parking lot near our office and we shared a nice handshake hug and JMo said, "Welcome to Waco, glad you're here Smoaky."
I remember walking through the front door of ESPN/Mix/TheBeat and Beth Richards greeting me with a huge smile, "We're glad to have you at ESPN."
We've all had some goals and we've accomplished each and every one of them.
*Our sales have increased dramatically and we're holding steady for a nice November.
*Website renovated, podcast segments available and audio-streaming completed (Special Thanks to Beth Richards)
*Upgrading and changing the culture and personality on "You Make The Call" with weekly analysts and guests discussing the Cowboys, Big XII and much more.
*We moved into our really nice building just over a month ago, it's ours, no elevators, no leasing or rent, it's our building and it fits our great atmosphere among everyone involved.
Do we have a few cat fights, disagreements and eruptions, yes---just like every normal radio station or even most businesses where it's not a "cookie cutter" environment.
I will co-host our Wednesday show and head back to Tyler to spend Thanksgiving with my wife Cindy, our son Craig and his girlfriend Mandee, and our daughter Jennifer. I'm not sure if she's bringing her boyfriend Brandon or not. If she is, Cindy better get an extra turkey or two.
And, I can't wait to love on our four cats and Jennifer's...excuse me, MY DOG, Oreo, our Broder Collar from hell.
Oreo is the smartest dog I've ever known and her personality is amazing. I can't wait for her to maul me when I get to the house sometime on Wednesday night.
Meanwhile, I'll return back to Waco on Friday morning and then Paul, Rich Richardson and I will start our drive out towards West Texas to Clyde for the Crawford-Idalou high school playoff game broadcast.
I've studied and prepped for the game and everything is set, locked-and-loaded.
For nearly 20-years, I did Class 5-A football broadcasting every Tyler Lee game but one from 1991-2008, and a nice handful of John Tyler games too.
I've been broadcasting mainly 3-A and now 2-A games this season, and like me personally, it's been about getting back to basics.
The 4-A and 5-A teams get almost all of the attention from the larger markets and nationally, but in my opinion, Texas HS football has its backbone from Six-Man to Class 3-A.
I've enjoyed working with Mark Bell at China Spring, Ray Biles at Lorena, Willie Williams at La Vega, Brian Lewis at Robinson, Kyle Cooper at Gatesville, Mike Rabe at Connally, Paul Weaver at Mexia, Bob Shipley at Brownwood, among many others.
We picked up the Crawford Pirates last week and Delbert Kelm has been a nice fit and very cooperative in sending me whatever I've requested.
Ever since my first season of covering high school football, 1981, I've always enjoyed watching any city or town get excited about playoff run...dreams are made, sometimes broken...but memories are forever.
I've also been fortunate to arrive in Waco as the Baylor football team broke a decade-and-a-half-long drought, not only finishing being bowl eligible, but 7-5. I remember asking Art Briles to appear on my first show with Butch and Paul, and he was there for us, and I remember an off-the-cuff prediction about Baylor's record. I think Butch and Paul said 6-6 and I mentioned 7-5. I had no clue but just felt the program was on the uptick.
I'd been told there hadn't been many player interviews in the past and I'm not sure if that's true, but I just went over the Bears roster and we interviewed Tim Atchison, Phillip Blake, Krys Buerck, Elliott Coffey, Ahmad Dixon, Tevin Elliott, Derek Epperson, Jay Finley, Chris Francis, Terrance Ganaway, Robert Griffin III, Antonio Johnson, Aaron Jones, Cameron Kaufhold, Prince Kent, Byron Landor, Clifton Odom, Lanear Sampson, Brad Taylor, Phil Taylor, Danny Watkins, Terrance Williams and Kendall Wright at least once and in some cases, many times.
We have plans on being right smack in the middle of the Baylor bowl game preparations and festivities.
I am a very lucky man, and I want to thank everyone, especially Cindy, Craig and Jennifer for believing in their husband and father. Cindy's family and mine as well for giving us our space and being very patient.
I want to thank my best friend, Eric Horton for being there for me through some difficult times in my life during the summer of 2009, along with David Dobbs, Randy Peters, Jerry Gumbert, Randy Galloway, Brad Sham, John McClain, and yes, the great Earl Campbell. Those guys have no idea how much they meant to me, although I've tried to tell them many times.
My golf buddies, Joe, John, Gene and a few others. I really miss all the trash-talking, and unfortunately, I haven't had time to hit the links since August and right before the high school football season began.
But, I'm used to that---I'll somehow get in a round or two during the holidays, depending on the weather and then make up for lost time next spring and summer.
But, the bottom line to everything I'm trying to write---thank you to so many people for supporting me in my first few months in Waco. I can't believe it's been exactly 5-months to the week I arrived...and we have so much more to do and accomplish.
I'm going to do something stupid and try and list everyone with the radio stations who have made a huge difference to me, Tony Loomer, Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Kisha Davis, Becky LeGrand, Bill LeGrand, Beth Richards, Leslie, Casey, Jessica Goodlett, Edward Graham, Dustin Drew, Gary Moss, Van Goodall, Mitch, Zach Burke, Paul Catalina, Butch Henry, Lance, Marcel, Linda Hill, Jazee, A.J., B.J. that D.J., Batman, Mary Montanez, Jazee, and Phyllis Curry.
A special thanks to Brenda Tacker, Terry's wife, who works at Baylor University. She has been my "Li'l Sis" in Waco and she has made sure I remain focused on the day-to-day and the big picture. Terry and Brenda were instrumental in getting me in front of some doctors when I was feeling awful before being diagnosed with double-pneumonia.
Let me tell you about the camaraderie inside our building. I've never experienced anything like it and when there are disagreements or concerns, no one takes it personally, at least not for very long.
That's a refreshing environment.
Casey, who we hired as our promotions directions about 6-8 weeks ago has been a breath of fresh air with her youthful exuberance and energy. She does everything for our appearances, including hanging banners, duct taping wires and phone lines and then helping take everything down when we're done.
And, today---after whining and complaining about my hair getting to long (as if I have enough to get too long), she brought her styling packet with scissors, clippers and everything else and right outside on our porch overlooking Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, she lowered my ears a little bit.
That was the ultimate in teamwork. HA!
Well, it's approaching midnight and I've been warned not to stay up too late too often---by the doctors and nurses at Hillcrest Hospital. If I even sniff past midnight, it's like when I was a kid when my mom had eyes in the back of her head.
But now, it's either Cindy or Brenda, Craig or Jennifer busting me over the chops with a verbal warning or stern text message.
Speaking of Hillcrest. I brought up my bout with double-pneumonia from back in early-October.
I'm not one to get sick. I don't miss work, I can't stand not working, but those two weeks changed my life and the staff at Hillcrest was truly amazing.
It's just what I've come to expect from Waco and Central Texas, true and real hospitality, nothing fake.
Thank you.
David Smoak
I'm so thankful to be in Waco and Central Texas and Butch, Paul, and so many others have made my transition from Tyler to ESPN-Dallas to ESPN-Waco very enjoyable.
I can't explain the camaraderie we have among our stations, 1660ESPN, Mix929 and 1049The Beat.
From the first day I arrived (June 22nd), I've felt apart of a tremendous family.
I remember the first meeting with our GM (Bill LeGrand) and our sales department and that seems like just yesterday. I remember Mix929 Program Director Dustin Drew and 1049The Beat Program Director Edward Graham taking me out for dinner that night and just chilling out and talking about our plans as a group.
Those two never met me before that day and they treated me like family. I'll never forget their immediate hospitality.
I remember walking to Cricket's sports bar with our owner, Gary Moss, before meeting with everyone and John Morris, "Voice of the Baylor Bears" yelled my name across the parking lot near our office and we shared a nice handshake hug and JMo said, "Welcome to Waco, glad you're here Smoaky."
I remember walking through the front door of ESPN/Mix/TheBeat and Beth Richards greeting me with a huge smile, "We're glad to have you at ESPN."
We've all had some goals and we've accomplished each and every one of them.
*Our sales have increased dramatically and we're holding steady for a nice November.
*Website renovated, podcast segments available and audio-streaming completed (Special Thanks to Beth Richards)
*Upgrading and changing the culture and personality on "You Make The Call" with weekly analysts and guests discussing the Cowboys, Big XII and much more.
*We moved into our really nice building just over a month ago, it's ours, no elevators, no leasing or rent, it's our building and it fits our great atmosphere among everyone involved.
Do we have a few cat fights, disagreements and eruptions, yes---just like every normal radio station or even most businesses where it's not a "cookie cutter" environment.
I will co-host our Wednesday show and head back to Tyler to spend Thanksgiving with my wife Cindy, our son Craig and his girlfriend Mandee, and our daughter Jennifer. I'm not sure if she's bringing her boyfriend Brandon or not. If she is, Cindy better get an extra turkey or two.
And, I can't wait to love on our four cats and Jennifer's...excuse me, MY DOG, Oreo, our Broder Collar from hell.
Oreo is the smartest dog I've ever known and her personality is amazing. I can't wait for her to maul me when I get to the house sometime on Wednesday night.
Meanwhile, I'll return back to Waco on Friday morning and then Paul, Rich Richardson and I will start our drive out towards West Texas to Clyde for the Crawford-Idalou high school playoff game broadcast.
I've studied and prepped for the game and everything is set, locked-and-loaded.
For nearly 20-years, I did Class 5-A football broadcasting every Tyler Lee game but one from 1991-2008, and a nice handful of John Tyler games too.
I've been broadcasting mainly 3-A and now 2-A games this season, and like me personally, it's been about getting back to basics.
The 4-A and 5-A teams get almost all of the attention from the larger markets and nationally, but in my opinion, Texas HS football has its backbone from Six-Man to Class 3-A.
I've enjoyed working with Mark Bell at China Spring, Ray Biles at Lorena, Willie Williams at La Vega, Brian Lewis at Robinson, Kyle Cooper at Gatesville, Mike Rabe at Connally, Paul Weaver at Mexia, Bob Shipley at Brownwood, among many others.
We picked up the Crawford Pirates last week and Delbert Kelm has been a nice fit and very cooperative in sending me whatever I've requested.
Ever since my first season of covering high school football, 1981, I've always enjoyed watching any city or town get excited about playoff run...dreams are made, sometimes broken...but memories are forever.
I've also been fortunate to arrive in Waco as the Baylor football team broke a decade-and-a-half-long drought, not only finishing being bowl eligible, but 7-5. I remember asking Art Briles to appear on my first show with Butch and Paul, and he was there for us, and I remember an off-the-cuff prediction about Baylor's record. I think Butch and Paul said 6-6 and I mentioned 7-5. I had no clue but just felt the program was on the uptick.
I'd been told there hadn't been many player interviews in the past and I'm not sure if that's true, but I just went over the Bears roster and we interviewed Tim Atchison, Phillip Blake, Krys Buerck, Elliott Coffey, Ahmad Dixon, Tevin Elliott, Derek Epperson, Jay Finley, Chris Francis, Terrance Ganaway, Robert Griffin III, Antonio Johnson, Aaron Jones, Cameron Kaufhold, Prince Kent, Byron Landor, Clifton Odom, Lanear Sampson, Brad Taylor, Phil Taylor, Danny Watkins, Terrance Williams and Kendall Wright at least once and in some cases, many times.
We have plans on being right smack in the middle of the Baylor bowl game preparations and festivities.
I am a very lucky man, and I want to thank everyone, especially Cindy, Craig and Jennifer for believing in their husband and father. Cindy's family and mine as well for giving us our space and being very patient.
I want to thank my best friend, Eric Horton for being there for me through some difficult times in my life during the summer of 2009, along with David Dobbs, Randy Peters, Jerry Gumbert, Randy Galloway, Brad Sham, John McClain, and yes, the great Earl Campbell. Those guys have no idea how much they meant to me, although I've tried to tell them many times.
My golf buddies, Joe, John, Gene and a few others. I really miss all the trash-talking, and unfortunately, I haven't had time to hit the links since August and right before the high school football season began.
But, I'm used to that---I'll somehow get in a round or two during the holidays, depending on the weather and then make up for lost time next spring and summer.
But, the bottom line to everything I'm trying to write---thank you to so many people for supporting me in my first few months in Waco. I can't believe it's been exactly 5-months to the week I arrived...and we have so much more to do and accomplish.
I'm going to do something stupid and try and list everyone with the radio stations who have made a huge difference to me, Tony Loomer, Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Kisha Davis, Becky LeGrand, Bill LeGrand, Beth Richards, Leslie, Casey, Jessica Goodlett, Edward Graham, Dustin Drew, Gary Moss, Van Goodall, Mitch, Zach Burke, Paul Catalina, Butch Henry, Lance, Marcel, Linda Hill, Jazee, A.J., B.J. that D.J., Batman, Mary Montanez, Jazee, and Phyllis Curry.
A special thanks to Brenda Tacker, Terry's wife, who works at Baylor University. She has been my "Li'l Sis" in Waco and she has made sure I remain focused on the day-to-day and the big picture. Terry and Brenda were instrumental in getting me in front of some doctors when I was feeling awful before being diagnosed with double-pneumonia.
Let me tell you about the camaraderie inside our building. I've never experienced anything like it and when there are disagreements or concerns, no one takes it personally, at least not for very long.
That's a refreshing environment.
Casey, who we hired as our promotions directions about 6-8 weeks ago has been a breath of fresh air with her youthful exuberance and energy. She does everything for our appearances, including hanging banners, duct taping wires and phone lines and then helping take everything down when we're done.
And, today---after whining and complaining about my hair getting to long (as if I have enough to get too long), she brought her styling packet with scissors, clippers and everything else and right outside on our porch overlooking Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, she lowered my ears a little bit.
That was the ultimate in teamwork. HA!
Well, it's approaching midnight and I've been warned not to stay up too late too often---by the doctors and nurses at Hillcrest Hospital. If I even sniff past midnight, it's like when I was a kid when my mom had eyes in the back of her head.
But now, it's either Cindy or Brenda, Craig or Jennifer busting me over the chops with a verbal warning or stern text message.
Speaking of Hillcrest. I brought up my bout with double-pneumonia from back in early-October.
I'm not one to get sick. I don't miss work, I can't stand not working, but those two weeks changed my life and the staff at Hillcrest was truly amazing.
It's just what I've come to expect from Waco and Central Texas, true and real hospitality, nothing fake.
Thank you.
David Smoak
Monday, November 22, 2010
Our growth in Central Texas continues...
We signed on with a new FM frequency today, 1660ESPN Radio is now being simulcast on 106.9FM KHLE in Kempner, Killeen, Fort Hood.
It's the first of what should be three FM frequencies we'll be using very soon.
The next should be in Waco and then Temple.
David Smoak
It's the first of what should be three FM frequencies we'll be using very soon.
The next should be in Waco and then Temple.
David Smoak
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Just interviewed Art Briles for Monday's show...
I've interviewed Art Briles throughout the season on Monday before his weekly press conference.
The time was never long-enough but I appreciated the chance to visit with him and share with our listening audience.
Today gave me a chance to have a pretty lengthy time with him, about 8-minutes and we talked about the emotions of the regular season ending, the disappointment of three consecutive losses and perhaps why the slide occurred.
Coach Briles was as relaxed as I've seen him and somewhat emotional shot like his football team.
I'll replay the interview at 4:10pm on Monday.
He discussed their success overall compared to the past decade and a half of Baylor football.
Did the season end with the thud with losses to Oklahoma State, A&M and OU, yes.
But, in the big picture, the Bears broke a long drought that had to be broken.
Smoaky
The time was never long-enough but I appreciated the chance to visit with him and share with our listening audience.
Today gave me a chance to have a pretty lengthy time with him, about 8-minutes and we talked about the emotions of the regular season ending, the disappointment of three consecutive losses and perhaps why the slide occurred.
Coach Briles was as relaxed as I've seen him and somewhat emotional shot like his football team.
I'll replay the interview at 4:10pm on Monday.
He discussed their success overall compared to the past decade and a half of Baylor football.
Did the season end with the thud with losses to Oklahoma State, A&M and OU, yes.
But, in the big picture, the Bears broke a long drought that had to be broken.
Smoaky
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Nebraska and the Big XII
I'm on record as being completed against Nebraska's decision to leave the Big XII for the Big Ten, but after tonight's game in College Station, I'm on board and won't look back.
Look, Nebraska's offense was bottled-up by the Aggies in a great atmosphere at Kyle Field.
31,000+ students attended the game, an apparent record and it was the largest crowd in Kyle Field history, that's great.
A&M should be proud of the effort to pack the stadium and create a difficult environment.
But, 16-penalties to 2 and the yardage involved, 140 to 10 is just ridiculous. Nebraska was a marked team on Saturday and no one can convince me otherwise.
If the 'Huskers weren't a marked team then their special teams stud Eric Martin sure was, 2-3 penalties and one of them after a kick that wasn't even returned. It takes about 2-3 seconds for a kicker to blast a ball through the back of the end zone. What can happen in that amount of time to deserve a personal foul?
Eric Martin has been a marked-man since he blindsided the OSU kicker after a touchdown return against Oklahoma State. Martin plays hard and is fearless, and that's what I want in a special teams player.
The officials didn't even throw a penalty against Martin during the return against Oklahoma State, but he was suspended. I'm good with the suspension, but I doubt the conference would ever suspend a UT or A&M player for something similar.
Nebraska deserved a lot of their penalties but two calls in particular should make Commissioner Dan Beebe feel dirty and ashamed.
The personal foul on Nebraska safety Courtney Osborne that led to the game-winning points for the Aggies. The hit wasn't late, it wasn't cheap and it wasn't helmet-to-helmet and he didn't touch Ryan Tannehill's head or helmet.
Why the flag?
And, despite that, Nebraska driving deep into A&M territory right before that and a flag was thrown on an incomplete pass on 3rd down. Any penalty against the defense extends the NU drive and in this case, it would have been 1st and goal. But, the flag was picked-up after a discussion and waved off.
Why throw the flag?
Overall, the Big XII officiating is consistently inconsistent.
Saturday night in College Station it was a complete joke and if the Commissioner is to suspend anyone or fine anyone, he needs to look no further than the crew that officiated the game in question.
Bo Pelini needs to maintain his composure and I know a lot of people will bring that up but how many of you suggesting that could do the same thing? Seriously, don't lie to yourself.
The game should be about the student-athletes, not the coach who has an anger issue or a program who is leaving the conference.
It was so blatant in my opinion that it appeared the Big XII had this message this weekend.
"Hey, Missouri, we know you were the original team who wanted to bolt the conference, but since you didn't have the balls to leave, we'll take it out on the program who did."
How do any of those officials look in the mirror after this one. They can't.
David Smoak
Look, Nebraska's offense was bottled-up by the Aggies in a great atmosphere at Kyle Field.
31,000+ students attended the game, an apparent record and it was the largest crowd in Kyle Field history, that's great.
A&M should be proud of the effort to pack the stadium and create a difficult environment.
But, 16-penalties to 2 and the yardage involved, 140 to 10 is just ridiculous. Nebraska was a marked team on Saturday and no one can convince me otherwise.
If the 'Huskers weren't a marked team then their special teams stud Eric Martin sure was, 2-3 penalties and one of them after a kick that wasn't even returned. It takes about 2-3 seconds for a kicker to blast a ball through the back of the end zone. What can happen in that amount of time to deserve a personal foul?
Eric Martin has been a marked-man since he blindsided the OSU kicker after a touchdown return against Oklahoma State. Martin plays hard and is fearless, and that's what I want in a special teams player.
The officials didn't even throw a penalty against Martin during the return against Oklahoma State, but he was suspended. I'm good with the suspension, but I doubt the conference would ever suspend a UT or A&M player for something similar.
Nebraska deserved a lot of their penalties but two calls in particular should make Commissioner Dan Beebe feel dirty and ashamed.
The personal foul on Nebraska safety Courtney Osborne that led to the game-winning points for the Aggies. The hit wasn't late, it wasn't cheap and it wasn't helmet-to-helmet and he didn't touch Ryan Tannehill's head or helmet.
Why the flag?
And, despite that, Nebraska driving deep into A&M territory right before that and a flag was thrown on an incomplete pass on 3rd down. Any penalty against the defense extends the NU drive and in this case, it would have been 1st and goal. But, the flag was picked-up after a discussion and waved off.
Why throw the flag?
Overall, the Big XII officiating is consistently inconsistent.
Saturday night in College Station it was a complete joke and if the Commissioner is to suspend anyone or fine anyone, he needs to look no further than the crew that officiated the game in question.
Bo Pelini needs to maintain his composure and I know a lot of people will bring that up but how many of you suggesting that could do the same thing? Seriously, don't lie to yourself.
The game should be about the student-athletes, not the coach who has an anger issue or a program who is leaving the conference.
It was so blatant in my opinion that it appeared the Big XII had this message this weekend.
"Hey, Missouri, we know you were the original team who wanted to bolt the conference, but since you didn't have the balls to leave, we'll take it out on the program who did."
How do any of those officials look in the mirror after this one. They can't.
David Smoak
What a HS football road trip...
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I completed our 838-miles high school football broadcast road trip early on Saturday morning.
We left for Humble on Thursday morning at 10:00am and return to Waco at just after 3:00am this morning.
We saw a lot of good football and a lot of the Texas landscape.
I have to admit to sleeping in VERY LATE this morning and then got up in time to hear our son, Craig, and his broadcast of Whitehouse and their loss to Mesquite Poteet today in Corsicana, 24-19.
It was a very surprising loss for the Wildcats.
We're already working on next week's broadcast between Crawford and Idalou, Friday, 7:30pm in Clyde.
I'm watching a little college football this season and about to head to Floyd Casey Stadium for Baylor-OU.
I hope everyone is having a great weekend.
I'm very excited about seeing the entire family late next week for Thanksgiving, we're just not sure where we'll convene, Tyler, Dallas or perhaps even here at my place in Waco.
David Smoak
We left for Humble on Thursday morning at 10:00am and return to Waco at just after 3:00am this morning.
We saw a lot of good football and a lot of the Texas landscape.
I have to admit to sleeping in VERY LATE this morning and then got up in time to hear our son, Craig, and his broadcast of Whitehouse and their loss to Mesquite Poteet today in Corsicana, 24-19.
It was a very surprising loss for the Wildcats.
We're already working on next week's broadcast between Crawford and Idalou, Friday, 7:30pm in Clyde.
I'm watching a little college football this season and about to head to Floyd Casey Stadium for Baylor-OU.
I hope everyone is having a great weekend.
I'm very excited about seeing the entire family late next week for Thanksgiving, we're just not sure where we'll convene, Tyler, Dallas or perhaps even here at my place in Waco.
David Smoak
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The mother of all HS road trips is about to begin...
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I are about to embark on a 2-day, several hundred mile road trip to broadcast games in Humble and Seymour.
We'll depart from Waco mid-morning on Thursday and head to Humble, approximately 180-miles and host "You Make The Call" and then the La Vega-Kirbyville game at 7:30pm on Mix929.
We'll drive from Humble to Corsicana and spend the night because we need to be in Seymour by Friday afternoon.
It's 395-miles from Humble to Seymour so that's 575-miles by Friday afternoon.
And, after broadcasting "You Make The Call" and the Crawford-Spearman game, we'll drive back to Waco, approximately 225-250 miles, and now we're at 800+-miles.
Oh boy!
I'm not sure what will be worse, the driving or me breaking up the cat fights between the two love birds, Paul and Rich.
Wish me luck.
Smoaky
We'll depart from Waco mid-morning on Thursday and head to Humble, approximately 180-miles and host "You Make The Call" and then the La Vega-Kirbyville game at 7:30pm on Mix929.
We'll drive from Humble to Corsicana and spend the night because we need to be in Seymour by Friday afternoon.
It's 395-miles from Humble to Seymour so that's 575-miles by Friday afternoon.
And, after broadcasting "You Make The Call" and the Crawford-Spearman game, we'll drive back to Waco, approximately 225-250 miles, and now we're at 800+-miles.
Oh boy!
I'm not sure what will be worse, the driving or me breaking up the cat fights between the two love birds, Paul and Rich.
Wish me luck.
Smoaky
I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving...
Our daughter, Jennifer, who lives in Dallas called me last night asking about my schedule for next weekend, not this one but the last weekend in November.
She wanted to know if we had any high school broadcasts and where I'd be that weekend.
I thought she wanted me to come up and visit her in Dallas or she was coming down to Waco.
Because our schedule is fast and furious (like many others), I didn't realize she was asking about Thanksgiving Day and the weekend because I CANNOT BELIEVE IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING?
Where have all the days and weeks and months gone?
I guess time truly does fly when you're having fun.
Wow.
Smoaky
She wanted to know if we had any high school broadcasts and where I'd be that weekend.
I thought she wanted me to come up and visit her in Dallas or she was coming down to Waco.
Because our schedule is fast and furious (like many others), I didn't realize she was asking about Thanksgiving Day and the weekend because I CANNOT BELIEVE IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING?
Where have all the days and weeks and months gone?
I guess time truly does fly when you're having fun.
Wow.
Smoaky
"Common Grounds"
We are broadcasting on Wednesday between 3pm-6pm from "Common Grounds" a business that is just off the Baylor campus.
We have a packed show, Jackie Sherrill, Robert Griffin III, Jakob Coker, MLB from Lorena, Crawford football coach Delbert Kelm and our "Where are they Now?" segment with former Baylor TE Alonzo Pierce.
David Smoak
We have a packed show, Jackie Sherrill, Robert Griffin III, Jakob Coker, MLB from Lorena, Crawford football coach Delbert Kelm and our "Where are they Now?" segment with former Baylor TE Alonzo Pierce.
David Smoak
Sunday, November 14, 2010
A triple-header of HS broadcasts again this week...
We've picked-up three high school game broadcasts again this week.
Thursday, November 18th:
La Vega vs. Kirbyville, 7:15pm, Turner Stadium, Humble (Mix929)
Friday, November 19th:
Crawford vs. Spearman, 7:15pm, Seymour (1660ESPN)
Saturday, November 20th:
Marlin vs. Tatum, 6:45pm (Mix929)
And, we'll have the OU-Baylor game on 1660ESPN on Saturday night, tailgate pregame show at 5:00pm.
David Smoak
Thursday, November 18th:
La Vega vs. Kirbyville, 7:15pm, Turner Stadium, Humble (Mix929)
Friday, November 19th:
Crawford vs. Spearman, 7:15pm, Seymour (1660ESPN)
Saturday, November 20th:
Marlin vs. Tatum, 6:45pm (Mix929)
And, we'll have the OU-Baylor game on 1660ESPN on Saturday night, tailgate pregame show at 5:00pm.
David Smoak
Baylor's tough loss, Tailgate Party...
We had a tremendous showing at the pregame tailgate party on Saturday at Floyd Casey Stadium.
All three stations were there, 1660ESPN, 1049 The Beat and Mix 929. It's great to be at a station with true and legitimate camaraderie and people who truly care about each other.
We had fajita meat galore, chili, pork butt and the biggest and best smoker/tailer/cooker I've ever used, thanks to our man, Edward Graham.
Wow, it's so big walk inside of there's a large area to use as a grill and a big top to bottom smoker box. And, there's plenty of counter space and storage area and it comes with a double sink.
Everything is run by generator and it's a monster.
We also had a huge flat-screen outside to watch the games and a large tent.
Kyle Walton is the MAN when it comes to cooking, he has every piece of cooking equipment known to man. He travels around the southwest in competitions and he had it all.
We had current and former Baylor students drop by, sponsors and just friends from throughout Waco.
My wife, Cindy, surprised the hell out of me by showing up mid-afternoon, driving in from Tyler and that was awesome too.
A handful of people from the station knew she was coming in but no one told me so I'd be surprised.
It was a great day, and Baylor had A&M in trouble at 30-14 at halftime but couldn't finish the deal.
It really appeared to me that A&M came out and just became more physical on both sides of the ball and the Bears didn't respond well at all.
Even after all that---Baylor had a couple of possessions midway to late in the fourth-quarter to take the lead, but couldn't do it.
Aaron Jones, the kicker has an awful game, missed an extra point, had a FG blocked that was almost returned for a TD and then missed two others...that killed Baylor.
Bears host OU this Saturday night on either ABC or ESPN...should be another great week.
Smoaky
All three stations were there, 1660ESPN, 1049 The Beat and Mix 929. It's great to be at a station with true and legitimate camaraderie and people who truly care about each other.
We had fajita meat galore, chili, pork butt and the biggest and best smoker/tailer/cooker I've ever used, thanks to our man, Edward Graham.
Wow, it's so big walk inside of there's a large area to use as a grill and a big top to bottom smoker box. And, there's plenty of counter space and storage area and it comes with a double sink.
Everything is run by generator and it's a monster.
We also had a huge flat-screen outside to watch the games and a large tent.
Kyle Walton is the MAN when it comes to cooking, he has every piece of cooking equipment known to man. He travels around the southwest in competitions and he had it all.
We had current and former Baylor students drop by, sponsors and just friends from throughout Waco.
My wife, Cindy, surprised the hell out of me by showing up mid-afternoon, driving in from Tyler and that was awesome too.
A handful of people from the station knew she was coming in but no one told me so I'd be surprised.
It was a great day, and Baylor had A&M in trouble at 30-14 at halftime but couldn't finish the deal.
It really appeared to me that A&M came out and just became more physical on both sides of the ball and the Bears didn't respond well at all.
Even after all that---Baylor had a couple of possessions midway to late in the fourth-quarter to take the lead, but couldn't do it.
Aaron Jones, the kicker has an awful game, missed an extra point, had a FG blocked that was almost returned for a TD and then missed two others...that killed Baylor.
Bears host OU this Saturday night on either ABC or ESPN...should be another great week.
Smoaky
Friday, November 12, 2010
We're tailgating...
Well, we have the game broadcast tonight here in Burleson but when it's over my complete focus will be on Saturday's tailgate party at Floyd Casey Stadium.
We've gathered and compiled a lot of goodies to cook, fajitas, sausage, and I'm making a very large pot of the "Bama Grape Jelly Chili" for anyone interested.
Should be perfect weather with the cold-front that came through earlier tonight.
All three of our radio stations are working the tailgate, including Mix929 and 1049TheBeat.
Looking forward to it and it's perfect timing, everyone has been pushing very hard and we've had a great fall. Time for everyone to let their hair down and chill out a little bit and enjoy the camaraderie.
If you're tailgating tomorrow, drop by and talk sports or just drop by and eat. We'll have plenty.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
We've gathered and compiled a lot of goodies to cook, fajitas, sausage, and I'm making a very large pot of the "Bama Grape Jelly Chili" for anyone interested.
Should be perfect weather with the cold-front that came through earlier tonight.
All three of our radio stations are working the tailgate, including Mix929 and 1049TheBeat.
Looking forward to it and it's perfect timing, everyone has been pushing very hard and we've had a great fall. Time for everyone to let their hair down and chill out a little bit and enjoy the camaraderie.
If you're tailgating tomorrow, drop by and talk sports or just drop by and eat. We'll have plenty.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
As the temperatures changes...
It's 5:10pm on a Friday evening in Burleson, Texas and the temperature has dropped from the lower-70's to upper-50's since we arrived at 2:00pm.
Windy, cooler, playoff weather as we bring you the La Vega-Fairfield game tonight on Mix929.
Smoaky
Windy, cooler, playoff weather as we bring you the La Vega-Fairfield game tonight on Mix929.
Smoaky
Thursday, November 11, 2010
H.S. Football Playoffs Begin...
It's the opening night of the high school football playoffs and Texas and we're broadcasting "You Make The Call" live from Lion Memorial Stadium in Ennis.
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I are broadcasting a Class 3-A, Division I bi-district game between Madisonville and Gatesville.
Both teams are 5-5 but finished the season strong.
Over the past two weeks, Gatesville has recovered an onside kick to continue their comeback against Robinson and then blocked a field goal to seal the win and get into the playoffs. The week before they blocked a La Vega extra point and ran it back for 2-points to seal a win against the Pirates that put them in position to be a playoff team.
We'll be in Burleson on Friday for La Vega-Fairfield.
David Smoak
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I are broadcasting a Class 3-A, Division I bi-district game between Madisonville and Gatesville.
Both teams are 5-5 but finished the season strong.
Over the past two weeks, Gatesville has recovered an onside kick to continue their comeback against Robinson and then blocked a field goal to seal the win and get into the playoffs. The week before they blocked a La Vega extra point and ran it back for 2-points to seal a win against the Pirates that put them in position to be a playoff team.
We'll be in Burleson on Friday for La Vega-Fairfield.
David Smoak
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
A long, tough week but very enjoyable....
I knew this would be a tough and difficult week when we decided to broadcast three high school games during the opening week of the playoffs, and then---I couldn't resist, why not tailgate throughout the day on Saturday leading up to A&M @ Baylor at Floyd Casey Stadium?
Well, we're going to get it done and do it right.
Broadcasting the games is the easy part, preparing for the games with the system I use is time-consuming and very tedious.
I've been using the Power Point system for years and it's great, but it can take some time to create a team that I haven't done before, like this week, games involving both Fairfield and Madisonville.
Gathering the information, depth charts, stats, roster, schedule/results, coaching history, program history and I'm sure I'm forgetting something and putting it into a Power Point form is worth the time and effort.
I do all of the above, send to Kinko's for them to print on 8 1/2 x 14 paper in color, then place each team's offense and defense in flip-flop order and then laminate. Three copies for each team for our sideline reporter, color analyst and me.
When a team we've been covering or have covered is involved, it's a little easier...it's tweaking a few personnel changes and revising the stats.
I can prepare a team we've done before like this week, Gatesville and/or La Vega or throughout the season (China Spring) in a matter of 5-10 minutes.
Putting a new team in the system can take anywhere from an hour to 2-3 hours.
Well, I've sent the depth charts to Kinko's here in Waco for the Madisonville-Gatesville game and for La Vega vs. Fairfield.
Hey, I'm not complaining, I love it and I can't wait to be involved in broadcasting those games.
Smoaky
Well, we're going to get it done and do it right.
Broadcasting the games is the easy part, preparing for the games with the system I use is time-consuming and very tedious.
I've been using the Power Point system for years and it's great, but it can take some time to create a team that I haven't done before, like this week, games involving both Fairfield and Madisonville.
Gathering the information, depth charts, stats, roster, schedule/results, coaching history, program history and I'm sure I'm forgetting something and putting it into a Power Point form is worth the time and effort.
I do all of the above, send to Kinko's for them to print on 8 1/2 x 14 paper in color, then place each team's offense and defense in flip-flop order and then laminate. Three copies for each team for our sideline reporter, color analyst and me.
When a team we've been covering or have covered is involved, it's a little easier...it's tweaking a few personnel changes and revising the stats.
I can prepare a team we've done before like this week, Gatesville and/or La Vega or throughout the season (China Spring) in a matter of 5-10 minutes.
Putting a new team in the system can take anywhere from an hour to 2-3 hours.
Well, I've sent the depth charts to Kinko's here in Waco for the Madisonville-Gatesville game and for La Vega vs. Fairfield.
Hey, I'm not complaining, I love it and I can't wait to be involved in broadcasting those games.
Smoaky
Our new website is finally launched....
Well, after several weeks of work and preparation we have launched our new website, http://www.1660espn.com/.
Please send any suggestions or feedback to me by email at smoaky@1660espn.com.
I want to thank Beth Richards from our sister station Mix929 for her thankless hours of work behind the scene in changing the information, logos, url's and everything imaginable from one site to the new one.
Also, Triton Digital Media has been great to work with and they did a great job creating the site.
We have a few gremlins to figure out and some bumps and bruises that will pop up but we're excited about the site and we hope you are as well.
Smoaky
Please send any suggestions or feedback to me by email at smoaky@1660espn.com.
I want to thank Beth Richards from our sister station Mix929 for her thankless hours of work behind the scene in changing the information, logos, url's and everything imaginable from one site to the new one.
Also, Triton Digital Media has been great to work with and they did a great job creating the site.
We have a few gremlins to figure out and some bumps and bruises that will pop up but we're excited about the site and we hope you are as well.
Smoaky
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Should be a great week on 1660ESPN Radio-Waco
I'm as pumped up about this week as I was my first week back in late-June.
We'll have some great topics, including a week long preview of Texas A&M @ Baylor, with interviews from Art Briles, Mike Sherman, and a player or two.
We'll also discuss and predict the opening week of the Bi-District playoffs throughout Central Texas.
And, I'm asking this question on Monday. Who has been a bigger disappointment in football, UT or the Cowboys? Cowboys are about to kickoff at Green Bay on NBC.
We'll have our regular list of analysts and much more.
David Smoak
We'll have some great topics, including a week long preview of Texas A&M @ Baylor, with interviews from Art Briles, Mike Sherman, and a player or two.
We'll also discuss and predict the opening week of the Bi-District playoffs throughout Central Texas.
And, I'm asking this question on Monday. Who has been a bigger disappointment in football, UT or the Cowboys? Cowboys are about to kickoff at Green Bay on NBC.
We'll have our regular list of analysts and much more.
David Smoak
We'll broadcast three games during the Bi-District Playoffs
Thursday, November 11th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(5-5) Madisonville vs. (5-5) Gatesville, 7:30pm, Ennis
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Friday, November 12th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(6-4) La Vega vs. (9-1) Fairfield, 7:30pm, Burleson
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Saturday, November 13th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(7-3) Teague vs. (7-3) Marlin, 7:30pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
(Tom Barfield and Johnny Tusa)
(5-5) Madisonville vs. (5-5) Gatesville, 7:30pm, Ennis
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Friday, November 12th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(6-4) La Vega vs. (9-1) Fairfield, 7:30pm, Burleson
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Saturday, November 13th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(7-3) Teague vs. (7-3) Marlin, 7:30pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
(Tom Barfield and Johnny Tusa)
Central Texas H.S. Football Schedule (Bi-District Schedule)
Central Texas Bi-District H.S. Football Schedule
Class 5-A, Division II, Region II:
(5-5) Belton vs. (6-4) Longview, Saturday, 7:30pm, Kincaide Stadium, Dallas
(9-1) Copperas Cove vs. Mesquite Horn, Friday, 7:30pm, Tarleton State
Class 4-A, Division I, Region I:
(8-2) Mansfield Summit vs. (8-2) Killeen, Friday, 7:30pm, Glen Rose
(10-0) Waco Midway vs. (6-4) Granbury, Friday, 7:30pm, Corsicana
Class 4-A, Division II, Region I:
(8-2) Everman vs. (4-6) Waco High, Friday, 7:30pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
Region II:
(7-3) Corsicana vs. (7-3) Bastrop, Thursday, 7:00pm, Panther Stadium, Waco-Midway H.S.
Class 3-A, Division I:
(5-5) Gatesville vs. (5-5) Madisonville, Thursday, 7:00pm, Ennis
Class 3-A, Division II:
(3-7) West vs. (8-2) Bridgeport, Friday, 7:30pm, DeSoto
(9-1) Lorena vs. (7-3) Mexia, Thursday, 7:00pm, Temple
(6-4) Waco La Vega vs. (9-1) Fairfield, Friday, 7:30pm, Burleson
Class 2-A, Division I:
(9-1) Malakoff vs. (4-6) McGregor, Thursday, 7:00pm, Corsicana
(7-3) Teague vs. (7-3) Marlin, Saturday, 7:00pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
Class 2-A, Division II:
(5-5) Hamilton vs. (3-7) Henrietta, Friday, 7:30pm, Springtown
(7-3) Hico vs. (6-4) Alvord, Friday, 7:30pm, Saginaw Boswell
(7-3) Axtell vs. (7-3) Franklin, Thursday, 7:30pm, Fairfield
Class 1-A, Division I:
(8-2) Kerens vs. (5-5) Bosqueville, Friday, 7:30pm, Waxahachie
(4-6) Moody vs. (8-2) West Sabine, Friday, 7:30pm, Troup
Class 1-A, Division II:
(7-3) Chilton vs. (5-4) Gorman, Saturday, 1:00pm, Glen Rose
(5-5) Dawson vs. (4-6) Ranger, Friday, 7:30pm, Godley
Six-Man, Division I:
(8-2) Penelope vs. (7-3) Apple Springs, Friday, 7:00pm, Elkhart
(7-3) Aquilla vs. (7-2) Oakwood, Friday, 7:30pm, Hubbard
(8-2) Walnut Springs vs. Irving Universal Academy, TBA
Six-Man, Division II:
(10-0) Milford vs. (7-3) Harrold, Friday, 7:30pm, Zephyr
(10-0) Jonesboro vs. (7-3) Gustine, TBA
(8-2) Iredell vs. (8-2) Sidney, TBA
TAPPS:
Division II:
(7-3) Waco Reicher vs. Grapevine Faith, TBA
Division IV:
(7-3) Texas Christian Academy @ Muenster Sacred Heart, Friday, 7:30pm
-----
Temple Holy Trinity @ Dallas The Covenant, Saturday, 1:00pm
Friday, November 5, 2010
H.S. Regular Season Ends tonight...
There are a handful of games around Texas on Saturday, but for the most part the 2010 high school football season ends tonight, that's the regular season.
Can't believe it's almost over.
It's been one of the most enjoyable seasons I've been around since I began my broadcasting career in November, 1981.
In many ways, it's been nice to get back to the basics, the guts of Texas high school football, Class 3-A.
We have a really good one tonight, not sure who wins, really have no clue, but the winner all but assures themselves of a playoff berth, China Spring @ La Vega at Pirate Stadium.
If China Spring wins or loses by 2-or less, or wins straight up they're in.
If La Vega wins by 4-or-more they're in and China Spring is out.
If La Vega wins by exactly and Gatesville beats Robinson, they will have a three-team coin flip.
We'll have an interesting night to say the least.
David Smoak
Can't believe it's almost over.
It's been one of the most enjoyable seasons I've been around since I began my broadcasting career in November, 1981.
In many ways, it's been nice to get back to the basics, the guts of Texas high school football, Class 3-A.
We have a really good one tonight, not sure who wins, really have no clue, but the winner all but assures themselves of a playoff berth, China Spring @ La Vega at Pirate Stadium.
If China Spring wins or loses by 2-or less, or wins straight up they're in.
If La Vega wins by 4-or-more they're in and China Spring is out.
If La Vega wins by exactly and Gatesville beats Robinson, they will have a three-team coin flip.
We'll have an interesting night to say the least.
David Smoak
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Catching up on several items (Sorry it's been so long since last post)
Our staff at 1660ESPN Radio has been running and gunning and we're focused on the final week of the high school football season and what and who we might be able to broadcast and cover during the playoffs.
China Spring needs to beat La Vega or lose by 2-points or less for their broadcasts to continue. If they tie La Vega, they'll have a coin flip involving La Vega and Gatesville.
If China Spring loses by 4-points or more, they're done.
And, how fortunate are we to ride the wave of the near perfect storm of topics this fall.
1) Baylor is enjoying an amazing season, bowl eligible, ranked in all the polls and coming off wins against Colorado, K-State and at Texas.
2) Rangers get to the World Series.
3) Cowboys are in a free fall and it can't get much worse than losing to the Jaguars at home, or can it?
4) H.S. Football season--no matter who moves into the playoffs---covering high school football has been a passion of mine for 30+-years.
And, with all the above going on we're about the launch into the 2010-2001 Men's and Women's College Basketball Season, Lady Bears are #2 in both polls, Baylor men ranked among the top 20 in both polls.
This has been great.
Also, we cracked a sales figure no one thought possible when I arrived in late-June. I said we'd one day break $100,000 within a year.
We passed $90,000 in October. Special thanks to Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Becky LeGrand, Linda Hill, Kisha Davis and Bill LeGrand. Without them, we don't hit that goal.
I gave the sales department a hefty goal and then tried to put some sponsorships and ideas in front of them and they ran like the wind.
We'll have our work cut out for us to get near that goal over the next 3-6 months but who knows, no one thought we'd hit $90,000 this quickly either.
We've moved basically everything into our new building off 340/6 and Bagby...what a nice place, still not completely settled in but it's a tremendous upgrade from where we were, and where we were was pretty nice.
Our five new studios in the back are built, now it's about a 2-3-4 week process to add everything, thousands of feet or wires, new computers, consoles and so much more.
I can't wait for us to have an Open House to show it off---everyone is very excited.
It's so nice to be involved with a company that is growing and we're about to add 2-3 new frequencies to what we already have including 1-2 of them being able to simulcast 1660ESPN...deeper to the south.
Our goal is to one day have a regional network, but we have plenty on our plate for now.
The radio business is very competitive and some stations are either stagnant or losing their grip and it's tough out there...so fortunate to be with a company that is growing each day.
Personally, our son Craig continues kicking butt at his station in Tyler/Longview (99.3FM) and he's booking of guests is very impressive. He's such talented and incredibly passionate, and he's grown up into a man over the past year and a half. If I've written this before, bare with me, but he's so much more talented than I could ever dream of and now he's building his own nest and creating his own identity. We have some rather lengthy phone calls multiple times a day, mostly about life in general and our late-night talks are special, very special and I look forward to them.
Our daughter, Jennifer, just started her new job with a bank in north Dallas and she's so excited, great benefits, good pay, and definitely something she's interested in. She still has some interest in radio/television and even trying out for the Mavs Dancers again next summer, but this opportunity at the bank is really cool.
Cindy continues to kick ass with her job as V.P. of SporTyler at the Chamber of Commerce in Tyler. Yes, she's still there---my recruiting efforts (and those of others is working but it appears we'll have to wait until the spring to put it on the market for the best value). Cindy has a great job and loves it and it wouldn't be fair to ask her to leave "yet" but we'll see. She came down last weekend, we just vegged-out and watched college football. She's a huge sports fan too and you've never seen passion until you witness her watching an OU football game.
I can't imagine anyone getting that worked up over their favorite college football team. I'd never dream of yelling and screaming while watching my 'Huskers on television.
Okay, my nose is growing...I'm the worst.
I have an update on my mom, she was hospitalized back during the early part of the football season and was in recovery and in rehab but suffered a setback. But, they did a procedure about 2-3 weeks ago that really gave her renewed energy and she was doing well.
My two older brothers, Mike and Robert called me this week to inform me of her temperature rising and of course that was a concern but it's apparently been corrected.
I just talked with her late last week and I could tell she was doing better because she was grumpy...seriously, she's tired of that place. I can relate and I only spent 9-days in the hospital, she's been there for several weeks.
I know it's worn out my father---he's lost without her and then again, maybe he's getting some peace and quiet because he pampered my mother, always has---and believe me, she took advantage of it :)
I can't believe it's been over four-months since I arrived at ESPN Waco on June 22nd, it's flown by and so many good people in this area have made my time here very special. And, just think, we've only just begun...a lot has been accomplished but we still have a lot of work to do.
Okay, I just realized I could be in trouble.
If the time of this blog is posted once I click "publish," my doctor is going to thump me in the forehead or kick me in the...
I'm on strict orders even 3-4 weeks after the double-pneumonia to shut it down and not work late into the night.
Oh well, thank goodness I didn't blog over the past 2-3 nights...or excuse me, early mornings.
I can't resist, lots of work to do and a lot of time to make up.
Have a great week and stay in touch.
Smoaky
China Spring needs to beat La Vega or lose by 2-points or less for their broadcasts to continue. If they tie La Vega, they'll have a coin flip involving La Vega and Gatesville.
If China Spring loses by 4-points or more, they're done.
And, how fortunate are we to ride the wave of the near perfect storm of topics this fall.
1) Baylor is enjoying an amazing season, bowl eligible, ranked in all the polls and coming off wins against Colorado, K-State and at Texas.
2) Rangers get to the World Series.
3) Cowboys are in a free fall and it can't get much worse than losing to the Jaguars at home, or can it?
4) H.S. Football season--no matter who moves into the playoffs---covering high school football has been a passion of mine for 30+-years.
And, with all the above going on we're about the launch into the 2010-2001 Men's and Women's College Basketball Season, Lady Bears are #2 in both polls, Baylor men ranked among the top 20 in both polls.
This has been great.
Also, we cracked a sales figure no one thought possible when I arrived in late-June. I said we'd one day break $100,000 within a year.
We passed $90,000 in October. Special thanks to Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Becky LeGrand, Linda Hill, Kisha Davis and Bill LeGrand. Without them, we don't hit that goal.
I gave the sales department a hefty goal and then tried to put some sponsorships and ideas in front of them and they ran like the wind.
We'll have our work cut out for us to get near that goal over the next 3-6 months but who knows, no one thought we'd hit $90,000 this quickly either.
We've moved basically everything into our new building off 340/6 and Bagby...what a nice place, still not completely settled in but it's a tremendous upgrade from where we were, and where we were was pretty nice.
Our five new studios in the back are built, now it's about a 2-3-4 week process to add everything, thousands of feet or wires, new computers, consoles and so much more.
I can't wait for us to have an Open House to show it off---everyone is very excited.
It's so nice to be involved with a company that is growing and we're about to add 2-3 new frequencies to what we already have including 1-2 of them being able to simulcast 1660ESPN...deeper to the south.
Our goal is to one day have a regional network, but we have plenty on our plate for now.
The radio business is very competitive and some stations are either stagnant or losing their grip and it's tough out there...so fortunate to be with a company that is growing each day.
Personally, our son Craig continues kicking butt at his station in Tyler/Longview (99.3FM) and he's booking of guests is very impressive. He's such talented and incredibly passionate, and he's grown up into a man over the past year and a half. If I've written this before, bare with me, but he's so much more talented than I could ever dream of and now he's building his own nest and creating his own identity. We have some rather lengthy phone calls multiple times a day, mostly about life in general and our late-night talks are special, very special and I look forward to them.
Our daughter, Jennifer, just started her new job with a bank in north Dallas and she's so excited, great benefits, good pay, and definitely something she's interested in. She still has some interest in radio/television and even trying out for the Mavs Dancers again next summer, but this opportunity at the bank is really cool.
Cindy continues to kick ass with her job as V.P. of SporTyler at the Chamber of Commerce in Tyler. Yes, she's still there---my recruiting efforts (and those of others is working but it appears we'll have to wait until the spring to put it on the market for the best value). Cindy has a great job and loves it and it wouldn't be fair to ask her to leave "yet" but we'll see. She came down last weekend, we just vegged-out and watched college football. She's a huge sports fan too and you've never seen passion until you witness her watching an OU football game.
I can't imagine anyone getting that worked up over their favorite college football team. I'd never dream of yelling and screaming while watching my 'Huskers on television.
Okay, my nose is growing...I'm the worst.
I have an update on my mom, she was hospitalized back during the early part of the football season and was in recovery and in rehab but suffered a setback. But, they did a procedure about 2-3 weeks ago that really gave her renewed energy and she was doing well.
My two older brothers, Mike and Robert called me this week to inform me of her temperature rising and of course that was a concern but it's apparently been corrected.
I just talked with her late last week and I could tell she was doing better because she was grumpy...seriously, she's tired of that place. I can relate and I only spent 9-days in the hospital, she's been there for several weeks.
I know it's worn out my father---he's lost without her and then again, maybe he's getting some peace and quiet because he pampered my mother, always has---and believe me, she took advantage of it :)
I can't believe it's been over four-months since I arrived at ESPN Waco on June 22nd, it's flown by and so many good people in this area have made my time here very special. And, just think, we've only just begun...a lot has been accomplished but we still have a lot of work to do.
Okay, I just realized I could be in trouble.
If the time of this blog is posted once I click "publish," my doctor is going to thump me in the forehead or kick me in the...
I'm on strict orders even 3-4 weeks after the double-pneumonia to shut it down and not work late into the night.
Oh well, thank goodness I didn't blog over the past 2-3 nights...or excuse me, early mornings.
I can't resist, lots of work to do and a lot of time to make up.
Have a great week and stay in touch.
Smoaky
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