Finally had a chance to write something down regarding the loss of my friend and mentor Paul Sidney. Yesterday I attended the funeral and burial, and the rain and fog set the tone. But the amount of outpouring of emotion from the many that attended, was heartwarming.
I later hung around the station with the usual crew, and we talked about Paul and "those" moments. We toasted his memory, and carry on...
All that has been said by so many covers it all. My association with WLNG through the 80's and 90's, is my most cherished radio memory. From engineering to my on-air rampage, it was the most exciting time of my life! The money was never an issue, just being a part of history made it all worthwhile!
Here's a personal email sent to a select group of radio friends, that somehow ended up on the New York Radio Message Board. I sent this out when I got the news from Gary and Brian at the station early Thursday Morning..
"I am sorry to report WLNG's Paul Sidney passed away this morning at 1am. He had been previously in declining health for quite sometime. I spoke with Paul just a couple days ago and it was my opportunity to thank him for all he's done for me, and my career. I told him that I never forgot the early lessons taught, and that his gentle guidance would always be a part of my delivery as a personality, not an announcer. That radio is a friend and local companion. For that I will always be grateful and humbled.
Paul was the finest example of "Live and Local", and truly loved what he did his entire life. His commitment to his radio friends was above and beyond. He even took the time to attend my fathers funeral back in 2000, when my radio and television career had expanded elsewhere.
Radio will continue, but there will forever be an empty studio chair in my "Hart". After all, Paul as a mentor was responsible for shortening my name as an intern back in 1983 from Scott Hartill to Scotty Hart.
An official news release will follow shortly. WLNG will make an on-air announcement later this morning.
A service is scheduled tomorrow Friday at 2pm at the Yardley & Pino Funeral Home. 91 Hampton Street, Sag Harbor, NY 11963. (631) 725-0251"
In Mr. Sidney's wonderful memory, I will be dedicating tonights Love Shack Interactive. I'll present a nice musical closer to the show at about 11:50.
Thanks Paul! The "situation" is on remote control now.. "and things like that"......