By Joe Nelson
With Comic-Con a little over a week away, the internet is abound with Con events strewn throughout downtown San Diego.
One of the more popular events is 'The Walking Dead Escape', an obstacle course of sorts set inside Petco Park where fans, or 'survivors', test their athletic prowess navigating between the countless zombies in and around the concourse of the ballpark's confines.
Here are some shots from 2014's Walking Dead Escape:
Something new for 2015 is the addition of "Walker Stalker Fan Fest". As the official website calls it, 'not just a celebration of Robert Kirkman's world of The Walking Dead and zombies, it's a fan meet-up and an opportunity for each guest to come away feeling like they've had an amazing experience and became part of a greater community of zombie lovers!' 'Walker Stalker Fan Fest is two days of events, interviews, and experiences that zombie fans won't find anywhere else'
I will post all links needed to get to this great experience at the end of this article.
How does this tie in to San Diego Radio? SanDiegoRadio and it's photographer will be following one of our morning show jocks as they attempt to survive the deadly course. Prior to the Escape, they will attend Walker Stalker and perhaps interview some of the biggest names in all things Dead.
Who will be joining us? I cannot reveal that yet, but stay tuned and more information will come available.
Here are all the links you need for The Walking Dead Escape and Walker Stalker Fan Fest:
Walker Stalker Fan Fest
http://walkerstalkerfanfest.com/
https://twitter.com/walkrstalkrcon
The Walking Dead Escape
http://thewalkingdeadescape.com/
https://twitter.com/twdescape
Thanks for tuning in to SanDiegoRadio.org
-Joe
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
SanDiegoRadio at Comic-Con
By Joe Nelson
With Comic-Con starting next week, please remember I will be there every day, all day if you need anything.
Also, if you will be downtown doing any remotes, please let me know and I will drop by. SanDiegoRadioJoe@gmail.com
Thanks and hope to see you down there!
Joe
With Comic-Con starting next week, please remember I will be there every day, all day if you need anything.
Also, if you will be downtown doing any remotes, please let me know and I will drop by. SanDiegoRadioJoe@gmail.com
Thanks and hope to see you down there!
Joe
Monday, June 29, 2015
June 2015 SanDiegoRadioSpotlight
By Joe Nelson
The June 2015 SanDiegoRadio Spotlight features 105.7 MAX FM's Kim Morrison!
Kim, thanks for sitting down with SanDiegoRadio...
The June 2015 SanDiegoRadio Spotlight features 105.7 MAX FM's Kim Morrison!
Kim, thanks for sitting down with SanDiegoRadio...
What is your current position?
I am part of the Murphy and Kim Morning Show on 105.7 MAX FM. Jack Murphy and I have been together now since November.
How are things with you right now?
Life, work…..it's crazy as usual. My two youngest, 13 and almost 16, keep the house lively and busy. I'm just trying on a daily basis to balance it all. Some days I nail it and some I don't. But my early mornings still allow me to be just as involved with them. Now that summer is here the pressure of school and sports is off. A little breather for everyone!
San Diego… What is your favorite place to visit?
I love the beaches of Coronado. It brings back memories of when I was a "zonie" and we'd spend our summers there. We don't get down there often enough.
Is your job still as exciting like it was day one?
Yes! It gets better every day. My new partner, Jack Murphy, has really made mornings fun again for me. The four of us, with Frank Anthony and Producer Kayla, make a great team.
Where is your favorite place to go out and eat?
My new favorite place is a tiny restaurant in Del Mar called The Secret. It's Peruvian food and it is delicious.
What are some facts about you that maybe no one knows, but could be interesting?
I'm a horrible cook. I play a little piano. I LOVE my dog. I LOVE MY DOG. I've never watched "Star Wars" or "Casablanca" to my husband's horror.
How vital is the connection between an on-air personality and the listener?
That's the objective. To connect. The more you live the more stories you have and the more relatable you are. To be able to share your life with them and make that connection is a special bond between you and the listener. Real life is the best way.
What is your favorite movie?
The Thomas Crown Affair with Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo.
With Social Media being so prevalent, tell me the advantages of using FB, Instagram, Twitter to connect with your listeners.
It's how everyone communicates. It's how we keep up with each other in our personal lives and now professionally. It gives listeners a chance to glimpse into our lives and share a bit of theirs as well. It's great talking with them on a daily basis. And social media has made that possible. No busy signal!
How long have you been in radio?
My very first job in radio was at the KOW in Escondido. It was a country station. I was there for about two years. I quit when they wanted me to do mornings and mid-days for 5 dollars an hour. From there I went to B100 then Star then Q106. In 1998 I took a break that lasted 10-11 quick years. Never thought I'd be doing mornings again. It's really great to be back doing what makes me happy.
Kim, thanks for the time!
-Joe
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Tease: Familiar Face Returning to TV News
By Joe Nelson
A very familiar name will be returning to the TV News scene soon and SanDiegoRadio will have the scoop.
Who is it?
Stay tuned.... more to follow.
-Joe
A very familiar name will be returning to the TV News scene soon and SanDiegoRadio will have the scoop.
Who is it?
Stay tuned.... more to follow.
-Joe
Friday, June 26, 2015
SanDiegoRadio Job Board
By Joe Nelson
PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR | LOCAL MEDIA SAN DIEGO
91X (91.1) XTRA-FM
Job Description:
Specific duties include, but are not restricted to, the
following:
·
Coordinate with department to oversee
promotional calendar of appearances and giveaways, following up on details for
activation, including confirmation, winner sheets, follow-up and delivery of
prizes for winners.
·
Write on-air copy for promotional spots, on-air
giveaways, website, event POP’s and others as needed.
·
Draft proposals for promoters and 3rd
clients for promotional opportunities, including product giveaways, local
concerts and events. Confirm and
activate within department.
·
Regular maintenance on station websites,
including event listings, concerts, contests, and photo galleries and
additional content as needed.
·
Organize event folders and software with updated
information mirroring the promo calendar as it develops, communicating
pertinent information to all relevant staff and departments.
·
Serve as station liaison for listeners and
winners.
- Assist with general overall department duties to the
Promotions Director, Promotions Manager and other station personnel.
- Office duties may include: working with clients on
pre-event preparations, listener correspondence, social network updating,
filing, and other duties as needed.
- Representing station on-site at events as needed.
Requirements:
- Position requires a positive attitude, strong customer
service and organizational skills.
- Candidate must take initiative, be a creative thinker, attention
to detail and ability to manage multiple projects at the same time.
- Must have excellent written and verbal communication
skills.
- High School Diploma or Equivalent Required. Two-Years College Preferred.
- Microsoft Word, Excel, Website and Internet experience.
- Knowledge of San Diego and surrounding area is a plus.
- Knowledge of broadcasting equipment is a plus.
- Knowledge of PromoSuite software is a plus.
- 18 years old or older.
- Must have an excellent Driving Record.
·
Must
have excellent written and verbal communication skills, with knowledge
of music formats and relevant artists.
To apply, send cover letter and resume to adasilva@lmasandiego.com – Please
specify that you are applying for the position in the subject line. No
phone calls, please
Monday, June 22, 2015
Senator Joel Anderson and KSON's John & Tammy Recognize Local Business
By Joe Nelson
KSON's John and Tammy were joined Monday morning by Senator Joel Anderson and the guys from Eastbound in Lakeside to present the restaurant with the 38th District "Business of the Year" award. There are only 40 businesses selected for this award statewide.
SanDiegoRadio.org supports small business and congratulates Eastbound for this recognition.
Hear audio of this presentation on John & Tammy's page HERE
Visit Eastbound HERE
Senator Joel Anderson's page can be found HERE
KSON's John and Tammy were joined Monday morning by Senator Joel Anderson and the guys from Eastbound in Lakeside to present the restaurant with the 38th District "Business of the Year" award. There are only 40 businesses selected for this award statewide.
SanDiegoRadio.org supports small business and congratulates Eastbound for this recognition.
Hear audio of this presentation on John & Tammy's page HERE
Visit Eastbound HERE
Senator Joel Anderson's page can be found HERE
FM 94/9 Unveils Lineup for Independence Jam
By Joe Nelson
Tickets for Independence Jam 2015 are available now. More information can be found on the station’s website at www.fm949sd.com.
FM 94/9 ANNOUNCES INDEPENDENCE JAM 2015
7 BANDS ON 2 STAGES AT THE OCEANSIDE PIER AMPHITHEATER
San Diego, CA: San Diego’s #1 Alternative Station, FM 94/9 (KBZT FM) has announced the lineup for Independence Jam 2015, Saturday, September 12th at the Junior Seau Oceanside Pier Amphitheater.
The lineup includes 7 bands on two stages, toasting the coast in Oceanside: Silversun Pickups, Meg Myers, Houndmouth, Civil Twilight, Bully and The New Regime. The lineup will also include one additional act that will be announced on July 22nd.
“We’re so excited to invite all of our listeners and the whole city of San Diego back to beautiful Oceanside to have some fun in the sun with us. This is a stacked lineup, and there’s still one band that’s so secret, we can’t even tell our moms about it,” said morning show host Steve Woods “This is for you San Diego. We love you.”
The Oceanside Pier Amphitheater has served as the backdrop to many previous Independence Jam events, which have included such acts as The Black Keys, Kings of Leon, Interpol, Cold War Kids, Phantogram, Rocket from the Crypt and many more.
“We love the response we always get for our FM 94/9 shows, and this is shaping up to be one of the biggest Indie Jam lineups ever” said Assistant Program Director, Music Director and Afternoon host Jeremy Pritchard “You better get your tickets for this one, don’t miss out.”
Saturday, June 20, 2015
SanDiegoRadio Job Board
By Joe Nelson
Sales Assistant - Graphics
BCA radio seeking an experienced sales assistant with a minimum of at least 2-3 years experience, preferably in radio, television, or broadcasting industry. Additionally, the candidate will be able to design digital graphics including banner ads and promotional web graphics. Candidate will assist Account Executives, and Sales Managers in preparing media/sales kits, sales proposals, inputting sales orders, and various other projects as needed. Experience with radio sales software including Marketron, Arbitron, Miller Kaplan a definite plus. Intermediate to Advanced Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and Photoshop required. Candidate must be detail oriented, able to multi-task, handle several deadlines, demands, and juggle personalities. Candidate must have a professional demeanor, adapt to change easily, and ability to jump in feet first. Candidate will be cross trained and be expected to cover front desk for lunch breaks. Only candidates with solid experience apply. Send resume, samples and salary requirements to hr@bcaradio.com for immediate consideration. EOE.
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Are you Looking to Hire? SanDiegoRadio May Have the Right Person
By Joe Nelson
If you are looking for work in radio, SanDiegoRadio offers you to post your resume right here, minus any personal information of course.
Today I am posting one from Kymberrly Scott, formerly of KyXy, Energy, and 91X.
If you are interested in contacting Kymberrly, her email is listed below.
ALSO: Here is her Soundcloud Address: https://soundcloud.com/mouth1993
Good luck!
-Joe
If you are looking for work in radio, SanDiegoRadio offers you to post your resume right here, minus any personal information of course.
Today I am posting one from Kymberrly Scott, formerly of KyXy, Energy, and 91X.
If you are interested in contacting Kymberrly, her email is listed below.
ALSO: Here is her Soundcloud Address: https://soundcloud.com/mouth1993
Good luck!
-Joe
Kymberrly
Scott
E-mail: ckymberrly@yahoo.com
Education
Grossmont
College - El Cajon – Graduate 2015 – Two Associates in Science and two
certificates for Media Communication – Both Audio and Video Production, graduated
with honors.
Experience
KyXy 96.5/San
Diego December 2012 – March 2014
- Weekend nights On-Air Personality
- Fill- in for weeknight host
Energy 103.7/San
Diego June
2012 – July 2014
- Board Operator with experience using AudioVault
and Voxpro and experience with live broadcasts/remotes, call screening and
recording listener audio for sweepers.
- Assisted Imaging Director with voicing and
producing station specific spots on a weekly basis, also loading sweepers,
music, spots and the Carson Daly Download into AudioVault.
Grossmont College Fall 2010, Spring/Fall 2011, Spring 2012
- Self-produced specialty show, The BRAT Show -
80’s & 90’s alternative, punk and new wave music. Duties consisted of
music programming, self-produced promos, live interviews with local bands
during Griffapalooza broadcast.
- Served as Program Director for the internet
broadcast radio station. Responsibilities included all on-air programming,
scheduling of on-air talent, evaluating air checks, assisting promotions
with event planning, ensuring the station adhered to FCC guidelines and
overseeing the work of the Production Manager & Music Director.
- Planned major events such as Chargers Blood Drive
and Griffapalooza.
91X/San Diego
August 2008 – September 2009
- Interned in the Promotions department assisting
with special events such as Street Scene, The Morning Show Halloween
broadcast and 91Xs’ Wrex the Halls concert.
August 2008 – September 2009 &
November 2010 – November 2011
- Served as the 91X Resurrection Sunday
intern. Duties included using Adobe
Audition to record and edit the broadcast, NexGen for add/drop of songs
and verifying the commercial log, posting the podcast on the 91X
Resurrection Sunday webpage, creating & posting the playlist using
Excel, selecting & posting the music video of the week, as well as
general promotion of the show and station via social media.
Awards
Grossmont
College/Griffin Radio
- NL Rookie of the Semester, Ambassadorship and
Best News Package (Spring 2010)
- Award of Excellence (Fall 2010)
- Award of Merit (Spring 2011)
- Best Personal Promo and Best On-Air Personality
(Spring 2012)
California State
Senate/Senator Joel Anderson
- Award for Outstanding Volunteerism 2011 (Served
as an emcee for La Mesa Flag Days Parade, also emceed 2012 – 2015.)
References
Available
upon request
SanDiegoRadio Job Board - Continued
By Joe Nelson
- Key sales orders into the system for subsequent billing and logs
- work "bumps" on the logs to prevent lost revenue
- run reports for sales managers and sales staff daily
- daily logs for on-air staff maintains final log and report production schedules
- affidavits for appropriate networks and advertisers
- training co-workers as to practices and procedures for the company
- must also have basic knowledge of Microsoft Office products, ie Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook and Windows environment
The successful candidate will have strong organizational and time management skills and excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills. All employees are expected to bring a positive attitude to the work place and be cheerful, cooperative and productive and to perform other such duties as may be required for the efficient operations of the stations.
Traffic Manager
Local Media San Diego is looking for a Traffic Manager to work closely with the sales, programming, production and finance departments. Responsibilities include producing and reconciling the daily commercial programming log, inputting broadcast orders, managing inventory, scheduling commercial copy and maintaining traffic records. This position requires a high degree of flexibility and the ability to work with constantly changing environments. Must be proficient in Marketron and Prophet/Nexgen
Local Media San Diego is looking for a Traffic Manager to work closely with the sales, programming, production and finance departments. Responsibilities include producing and reconciling the daily commercial programming log, inputting broadcast orders, managing inventory, scheduling commercial copy and maintaining traffic records. This position requires a high degree of flexibility and the ability to work with constantly changing environments. Must be proficient in Marketron and Prophet/Nexgen
- Key sales orders into the system for subsequent billing and logs
- work "bumps" on the logs to prevent lost revenue
- run reports for sales managers and sales staff daily
- daily logs for on-air staff maintains final log and report production schedules
- affidavits for appropriate networks and advertisers
- training co-workers as to practices and procedures for the company
- must also have basic knowledge of Microsoft Office products, ie Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook and Windows environment
The successful candidate will have strong organizational and time management skills and excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills. All employees are expected to bring a positive attitude to the work place and be cheerful, cooperative and productive and to perform other such duties as may be required for the efficient operations of the stations.
Send Resume & Contact Info to: adasilva@lmasandiego.com
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Latest Radio Ratings
By Joe Nelson
Ratings! We got ratings!
Enjoy...
San Diego (#17)
Ratings! We got ratings!
Enjoy...
San Diego (#17)
SUBSCRIBER | FORMAT | MAR 15 | APR 15 | MAY 15 |
---|---|---|---|---|
KHTS-FM | Pop CHR | 5.8 | 5.7 | 5.7 |
KMYI-FM | Hot AC | 5.8 | 5.7 | 5.5 |
XHRM-FM | Rhythmic AC | 5.1 | 5.0 | 5.5 |
KIFM-FM | AC | 5.6 | 5.4 | 5.3 |
XPRS-AM | All Sports | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.6 |
KPBS-FM | News Talk Info. | 4.9 | 3.8 | 4.2 |
KYXY-FM | Hot AC | 4.1 | 3.9 | 4.1 |
XHTZ-FM | Pop CHR | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.0 |
KSON-FM | Country | 4.6 | 4.1 | 3.9 |
KIOZ-FM | Active Rock | 3.6 | 4.1 | 3.7 |
KLNV-FM | Mexican Regional | 3.0 | 3.4 | 3.5 |
KGB-FM | Classic Rock | 3.9 | 3.6 | 3.4 |
KEGY-FM | Pop CHR | 3.3 | 3.4 | 3.2 |
KLQV-FM | Spanish Adult Hits | 3.2 | 3.0 | 3.2 |
XPRS-FM | Classic Hits | 3.0 | 2.9 | 3.0 |
KBZT-FM | Alternative | 2.4 | 2.6 | 2.7 |
KFMB-FM | Hot AC | 2.7 | 2.7 | 2.7 |
KSSX-FM | Rhythmic AC | 2.2 | 2.5 | 2.7 |
XTRA-FM | Alternative | 2.3 | 2.1 | 2.7 |
KOGO-AM | News Talk Info. | 2.9 | 2.9 | 2.5 |
XLTN-FM | Spanish Contemp. | 1.7 | 2.1 | 2.1 |
KPRI-FM | AAA | 1.5 | 2.0 | 1.9 |
KFMB-AM | News Talk Info. | 2.2 | 1.7 | 1.6 |
KLSD-AM | All Sports | 1.2 | 1.1 | 1.1 |
XHTY-FM | Mexican Regional | 1.0 | 0.8 | 1.0 |
XOCL-FM | Spanish Adult Hits | 1.0 | 1.1 | 0.8 |
XHFG-FM | Spanish Contemp. | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.6 |
KSDS-FM | Jazz | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.5 |
XEPE-AM | All Sports | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
XGLX-FM | Spanish Contemp. | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.2 |
KGB Skyshow 40 Announced
By Joe Nelson
KGB LAUNCHES
“SEPTEMBER TO REMEMBER” WITH A BANG!
40th Anniversary of
KGB Skyshow presented by Sycuan Casino on September 5
San Diego, CA – June
8, 2015 – 101.5
KGB FM, San Diego’s legendary Classic Rock station, kicks off a Classic Rock filled
September celebration with the 40th Annual KGB Sky Show after the San Diego
State Aztecs vs. University of San Diego Toreros NCAA football game at Qualcomm
Stadium on September 5, 2015. The KGB Sky Show is synchronized to a custom
soundtrack that can be heard in the stadium, on-air at 101.5 FM, and via live
stream at 101kgb.com.
The
Aztecs vs. Toreros game is the first meeting of the two teams since 1961 and
kicks off the season for both organizations. For the past 40 years, 101.5 KGB
has entertained San Diegans with a spectacular display of pyrotechnics with
“The Biggest Fireworks Show West of the Mississippi.” Each year, KGB develops a
new show theme and works with a production team from Fireworks by Pyro
Spectaculars by Souza to choreograph a musical soundtrack and pyrotechnic
display that brings the theme to life and leaves the audience in awe.
Sky Show
is a massive fireworks presentation that takes months of preparation. The
production culminates in a production that takes more than 60 pyro-technicians
working with ten computers to discharge more than 5,000 shells set up in
numerous locations throughout the stadium, including: 31 parking lot locations,
16 playing field locations, and atop the light board. The 40th Annual KGB Sky
Show is presented by Sycuan Casino.
"The
101 KGB is going all-out for our 40th Anniversary!” said Shauna Moran, 101 KGB
Program Director. “We plan to wow the fans with one of our best musically
synchronized fireworks show in San Diego that will be remembered for four more
decades.”
The
KGB Sky Show on September 5, will begin a month-long Classic Rock celebration
that as the “Greatest Month of Rock-and-Roll in San Diego History!” Every
weekday, KGB will be giving away concert tickets including: ZZ Top - September
13; The Who - September 14; The KAABOO Music Experience - September 18-20; Def
Leppard with Styx and Tesla – September 22; Foo Fighters - September 24;
Loverboy - September 27; AC/DC - September 28; and Van Halen - September 30.
Single
game tickets for the San Diego State University vs. University of San Diego,
which include the post-game Sky Show fireworks, go on sale July 20, 2015. KGB listeners may purchase pre-sale tickets
with a special Promo-code available at 101KGB.com.
101.5
KGB is a leading media outlet in the San Diego market. The stations' programming and content are
available across multiple platforms, including its broadcast station; online
via its branded digital site; mobile; and social, with nationwide listening
through iHeartRadio, the all-in-one streaming music and live radio service with
its more than 600 million downloads, nearly 80 million social media followers
and 87 million digital uniques across the Network.
Sunday, June 7, 2015
Von Roll Gondolas - A SanDiegoRadio Feature
By Joe Nelson
I wanted to take a moment to share the hobby of one of SanDiegoRadio's readers.
Rob Von Roll is not only the foremost archivist and historian of the Von Roll Skyrides seen world-wide, but he also hand crafts miniature gondolas in his own home. SanDiegoRadio recieved one and it is personally crafted with my favorite number, and my kids names.
Here are some photos from my personal #24 Von Roll Gondola!
These are photos from Rob's yard, he has a fully functional skyride spread across the back yard.
I wanted to take a moment to share the hobby of one of SanDiegoRadio's readers.
Rob Von Roll is not only the foremost archivist and historian of the Von Roll Skyrides seen world-wide, but he also hand crafts miniature gondolas in his own home. SanDiegoRadio recieved one and it is personally crafted with my favorite number, and my kids names.
Here are some photos from my personal #24 Von Roll Gondola!
These are photos from Rob's yard, he has a fully functional skyride spread across the back yard.
And now some historical gondola photos from Disneyland and Sea World.
On occasion, Rob takes orders for these custom built gondolas. If you are interested, contact me and I will connect you.
Thanks for tuning in!
Joe
Saturday, June 6, 2015
SanDiegoRadio Job Board
By Joe Nelson
Promotions Coordinator
BCA Radio is seeking a Promotions Coordinator with at least 2-3 years experience. Candidate will be responsible for planning, executing station events, on-air appearances, remotes increasing station loyalty, and building listenership. Candidate will manage promotions, contest administration on web, events page, newsletters, social media, on air prizes, create clear and concise recaps, documentation. Candidate will manage social media posts, Facebook, Twitter. Candidate will write, obtain current, accurate copy for on-air personalities. Candidate will check proposal deliverables to ensure commitments are being met. Candidate will back up front desk when needed, and assist in coordination of internship program. Requires ability to lift 30-50lbs and will be responsible for setting up and breaking down events, and managing all logistical details. Excellent driving record is required. Candidate will work with senior management and multiple departments. Effective, proactive communicator, and intuitive professional, who will think outside the box, excellent organization, advanced computer skills, ability to multi-task, and go above and beyond, with superb customer service skills. Coordinates with advertising clients, customers, listeners, and vendors. Expected to work independently, often times in high-stress, time-critical situations, being flexible to constant change. Nights, weekends, 0holidays, varied hours. Please send resume, cover letter and salary history for immediate consideration to hr@bcaradio.com. EOE.
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Chopper the Biker Dog Suspended
By Joe Nelson
Mark Shaffer, close friend to SanDiegoRadio.org and the entire radio community recently met up with reporter Joe Little of 10 News to discuss recent events regarding Mark's dog, "Chopper the Biker Dog"
A couple weeks ago, Mark received a letter from "Pet Partners", the organization who certifies Chopper as a therapy dog stating his certification was suspended.
See Joe's story and video from 10 News HERE
The following is the letter and an editorial from Mark himself.
Mark Shaffer, close friend to SanDiegoRadio.org and the entire radio community recently met up with reporter Joe Little of 10 News to discuss recent events regarding Mark's dog, "Chopper the Biker Dog"
A couple weeks ago, Mark received a letter from "Pet Partners", the organization who certifies Chopper as a therapy dog stating his certification was suspended.
See Joe's story and video from 10 News HERE
The following is the letter and an editorial from Mark himself.
"It is the therapeutic value and perception of Chopper’s costume itself that we have a concern about (in view of the disadvantages of costumes in the therapeutic context” (Look at this photo and tell me where the concern is??)
On May 14th, 1 day after Chopper and I returned from a 10 day “Tour” up the west coast, sharing MY love with as many people and with whoever we could, at different nursing facilities, Veterans, Law Enforcement, “Chopper’s fans”… and whoever was in need of something “special”, ON OUR OWN TIME, I received an email from "Pet Partners" (formally “The Delta Society”)”, the organization that I (dad) have been a part of with 2 therapy dogs for the past 10 years. 10 years with 2 dogs dressing in a leather vest, goggles, doo-rag, bandana riding on a little Harley. (No Big Secret) The email read in part, these quotes:
1) “Pet Partners regrets to inform you that your registration with our organization is being suspended effective today.
2) “We are concerned about the clothing in which Chopper is in the community.”
3) “We are also concerned about the perception that your team may be creating in the community with regard to therapy animals.”
4) “While Chopper does seem like a lovely dog, our organization would be concerned about him being represented as a “magical therapy dog” in the manner that your website and Facebook page do.”
5) *****“It is the therapeutic value and perception of Chopper’s costume itself that we have a concern about (in view of the disadvantages of costumes in the therapeutic context”)****
2) “We are concerned about the clothing in which Chopper is in the community.”
3) “We are also concerned about the perception that your team may be creating in the community with regard to therapy animals.”
4) “While Chopper does seem like a lovely dog, our organization would be concerned about him being represented as a “magical therapy dog” in the manner that your website and Facebook page do.”
5) *****“It is the therapeutic value and perception of Chopper’s costume itself that we have a concern about (in view of the disadvantages of costumes in the therapeutic context”)****
END
Mark:
They do reference their policy about dogs wearing “costumes”: “Pet Partners doesn’t allow animals to be dressed in costumes for animal-assisted activities (AAA) and animal-assisted therapy (AAT), because costumes detract from the animal’s credibility as a therapy animal and a member of the facility’s treatment team.”
Keep in mind the definition of a “costume”, and according to the “definition”, that does NOT describe Chopper. What I do with Chopper is on my OWN time, and this organization has had FULL knowledge of what I have been doing, and even acknowledged it in numerous emails over the years, one being from Lisa Zeiner with Pet Partners, Therapy Animal Program Coordinator - Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA. Instructor and Evaluator sends an email saying, “It looks like you two do an awesome job!” (2012) Referring to Chopper and I.
In 2008 I received an email saying, “Bandit is adorable. “Just FYI, I’m not sure if you are aware of the new Delta rule about costumes, so you can’t bring him “to the evaluation” in full dress up. Only the leash and collar/harness you use.” JUST for the evaluation. Once again, “acknowledgment”.
December, 2014 Chopper was up for renewal, was re-evaluated, and our renewal was accepted.
This organization, Pet Partners (formally The Delta Society) has had FULL knowledge of my “biker dogs”…… for 10 years now!
The point of this, for 10 years, this organization has had knowledge, and awareness of both Bandit and Chopper dressing up as “biker dogs”, visiting so many people in need, and making a positive difference to thousands, and hundreds of thousands of people over the years…. They (Pet Partners) still gave us praise (in private emails), accepted our money and renewed our registration, UNTIL we went on our very publicized “road trip”, the SAME week they had the “biker gang” (as the news puts it) shooting / killing in Waco, TX…. coincidence? Profiling?
This does not mean Chopper is no longer a “Therapy Dog” what’s so ever. It means that this organization does not want him, and really needs to look at their rules and regulations closer, and change needs to be made, not to mention INSULTED US!! They need to look at the WHOLE “therapy-dog picture” of what a “therapy dog” is, does and brings to those in need, and the difference they make to those they visit…. And stop “judging”.
Maybe Pet Partners would like to hear YOUR opinion or stories how a “Biker Dog” affected your life, or a loved one. Maybe you would like YOUR voice to be heard.
I have given Pet Partners numerous chances to retract their statements and “reinstate” Chopper based on he does not wear a “costume”, and that being the bases of the suspension, and they “stand by their decision.”
The emails and quotes were all written and sent to me in an email by: Bilyana Yakova – Pet Partner’s Program Manager: 425-679-5529, bilyanay@petpartners.org
Annie Magnant is the President of Pet Partners - anniem@petpartners.org
Pet Partners
875 124th Ave NE #101
Bellevue, WA 98005
875 124th Ave NE #101
Bellevue, WA 98005
Mark and Chopper were in studio this morning with Jagger and Kristi to discuss the matter.
SanDiegoRadio supports you both, Mark and Chopper!
-Joe
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