Father Tom did his last "Radio Home Visitor" yesterday, which was also the 39th anniversary of the show. He also wrote his last column for the Citizens' Voice, published this past Sunday:
"In this past year, my health has been failing and I must leave the college and the newspaper, moving to our religious community's assisted living residence at Notre Dame. It's been fun and I wish you all good listening."
I think Sunday's piece, titled "Time to close 'The Museum' and say goodbye," may have been the first time Father Tom identified himself in the article:
"Thirty-four years ago, when I joined The Voice, we were in the middle of a bitter strike. In my private life, I represented two different entities and did not wish to have the general public think they were allied with one or another newspaper, it was that divisive. So King's College instructor Fr. Tom Carten first became arts writer Chris Vail and two years later got together with his friend George Rihan and showed up as big band columnist Jan Souther."
Like many who went to King's, Father Tom was the first professional broadcaster I ever met. I only read on the RHV once or twice, but listened often. Thank you, Father Tom, for everything you have done for the community and broadcasting in Northeast PA over the years, and I hope you enjoy a long and healthy retirement.
Brad Patton
Kings '91
"In this past year, my health has been failing and I must leave the college and the newspaper, moving to our religious community's assisted living residence at Notre Dame. It's been fun and I wish you all good listening."
I think Sunday's piece, titled "Time to close 'The Museum' and say goodbye," may have been the first time Father Tom identified himself in the article:
"Thirty-four years ago, when I joined The Voice, we were in the middle of a bitter strike. In my private life, I represented two different entities and did not wish to have the general public think they were allied with one or another newspaper, it was that divisive. So King's College instructor Fr. Tom Carten first became arts writer Chris Vail and two years later got together with his friend George Rihan and showed up as big band columnist Jan Souther."
Like many who went to King's, Father Tom was the first professional broadcaster I ever met. I only read on the RHV once or twice, but listened often. Thank you, Father Tom, for everything you have done for the community and broadcasting in Northeast PA over the years, and I hope you enjoy a long and healthy retirement.
Brad Patton
Kings '91