Blog Comments Blog Archives About Me Radio Gems The Trailer Links Contact

The Next Phase

September 3, 2008 @ 09:31

Anyone I've worked with over the years will tell you, I've always had the fantasy of working in Peterborough.

Through the 90's I told many a CFNY colleague that once the big bad city was done with me, I'd look for a job in Peterborough

It's a part of the province that's always been near and dear to my heart. It's the Kawartha's, it's where the tin palace is, it's where the Tiki Bar is.

To be honest, my personal schedule called for at least one more five year contract in Toronto, and then I'd look north, but as my sweet wife Delyse always says to me, life doesn't always turn out the way you intend it to.

But in this case, the curve that life through at me couldn't have worked out better.

A couple of months ago I got wind of a job opportunity at the Corus radio stations in Peterborough. 101.5 The Wolf, and 980 Kruz. They were looking for a program director and the prospect made my heart flutter.

Not only was it an opportunity in my favourite patch of the world, but it was a new and exciting challenge - management.

I've always had it in the back of my mind that I'd like to take a crack at "the other side" and this situation was perfect. It was the right time, in the right place, working for a company that was extremely hard to leave five years ago, so I took a shot.

And today I'm happy to report I'm the guy, I'm the program director of two radio stations. Peterborough's Best Rock, 101.5 the Wolf, and Home Town Oldies 980 Kruz that will move to 100.5 FM sometime in the fall.

I'm a lucky man. I still can't believe how things have unfolded for me. A memorable 28 year career in the big smoke, then a paid three year break in mid-life, and now this - a new challenge that I can't wait to begin.

I'm going to throw myself at this job and make these two stations the absolute best they can be. Radio should be fun, exciting and creative and that's what I hope to bring to The Wolf and Kruz.

I fully intend to keep FreddieP.ca and CanadianThinker.com alive, so I'll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, now that I'm back in the workforce, I have to do this, I have to thank my rock, my darlin', my wife.

Delyse had to live with the ups and downs that a life altering incident brings. Despite my mood swings and frustration with being separated from the business I love, she was nothing but positive, supportive and optimistic.

She's unbelievable.

And now, together, we're going to watch the sun set in Peterborough - or - in some cool place by a lake in the direct vicinity.

Loving you.

Category: Radio

Permalink Discuss

81 Responses to "The Next Phase"


Abu Hasan
September 3, 2008 / 09:34

Great news Fred! I wish you all the best in the new role. I know you'll love it!


Kelly
September 3, 2008 / 09:37

Congratulations, Fred....that's FANTASTIC news!! Best wishes on this new chapter of your career!!



Argie
September 3, 2008 / 09:39

Congrats Freddie!

A man with your vision and moxy deserves to be working in this industry. All the best and thanks for providing an awesome blog. There are many blogs out there but yours is the best, hands down!

Roger (aka Argie)


Sid
September 3, 2008 / 09:39

Congratulations Fred.
All the best in Peterborough.
As cottager in the K's near Stoney Stony Lake I've always felt comfortable in Peterborough [when I do there].
You'll be a great addition to the Corus 'family'.
Sid


Ian
September 3, 2008 / 09:39

Congrats Fred. It sounds like the right job for you. All the best in the new role


Joe Guarrasi
September 3, 2008 / 09:42

Freddie.........congrats..Listen to the Wolf all summer long from Kawartha's. Please Please get rid of saying of the weather every five minute then have a weather update every 6 minutes. I wish you nothing but the best of luck and fortune my friend. Joe


Newsbroad
September 3, 2008 / 09:46

Hey ya bugger...congrats!!
I know you will be fabulous as a 'suit' because you are not only firm, but fair!
All the best!


bingobob
September 3, 2008 / 09:48

HOLY CRAP FREDDIE!
Welcome to the PD club.
This is awesome.
I am so happy for you.


Boomer
September 3, 2008 / 09:58

Congrats Freddie,

I know Brian Ellis who has been at The Wolf for quite a while. Great guy, great station.

I'm sure you will make it even better.


Megan
September 3, 2008 / 09:58

Congrats Freddie! Best of luck ya bugger!


James Edgar
September 3, 2008 / 10:00

Congrats Fred!!!!!! The wolf is a great station. I'm sure it will only get better now. That really is great news I'm only sorry I won't many chances to listen.


Trish
September 3, 2008 / 10:04

WOW! It couldn't happen to a nicer guy, Freddie. You have been so patient, and as a reward you now have your dream job. Good luck and don't be a stranger....


Fred Ball
September 3, 2008 / 10:12

This is fantastic news Fred. I knew you would get this. These 2 stations are already better off.

It could not happen to a nicer guy.

I look forward to you buying me a beer to celebrate.


Rick
September 3, 2008 / 10:12

Congrats Fred ... being able to get out of this rat race is definitely a bonus !! Have fun. Keep on blogging !!


Ryan
September 3, 2008 / 10:13

Good for you Freddie.

I look forward to tuning in online (if you have that feature) and hearing what changes you'll make. Since you were a big part of the Spirit of Radio at cfny, maybe you'll be able to inject some of that into the FM station.

I guess there's only so much you can do with the musical format however. After all, how many people in Peterborough are interested in hearing a Smiths track, then perhaps Radiohead, Stone Roses and then maybe some Bloc Party... didn't think so! :)

Anyway best of luck!!
r


Al F
September 3, 2008 / 10:16

Fred, you've really put a smile on my face today.
Good things happen to good people.
You and your family deserve this.
Management!!
It's what guys our age slide into.
I'm so excited I think I will go golfing this morning.
All the best.
Al


Jason from Sudbury
September 3, 2008 / 10:16

Congrats Fred, way to go, I hope it works out for you.
The wolf is a good station, I got a chance to listen to it a few times when I went to go visit my buddy.


Paul
September 3, 2008 / 10:17

Freddie, awesome news. Glad to hear that you have landed back in the business you love so much. I hope you can wrangle a way to get your voice on the air from time to time.

Best of luck with the move!!!


Mikey
September 3, 2008 / 10:23

Good for you Fred. Glad to hear you'll be involved in radio again full time.

And making big decisions, even!


Tim Artuchov
September 3, 2008 / 10:26

Well deserved Freddie, I am very happy for you, you really deserve it!


Pam
September 3, 2008 / 10:33

Oh Fred! I am so happy for you!!!!!

Sure you had a paid 3 year break, but being unemployed for that long will erode your confidence and self worth. You had some dark times, losing Billie and then your Dad. Fred, it's been so tough for you.

I wish you the very best of luck and happiness. You have it all now, your place in the sun, the job you love and Delyse by your side...


Andrew
September 3, 2008 / 10:48

Big congratulations!

Program Director? So you're going to be "the man".

I think I get last week's question you had us answer a bit more now.


juniep
September 3, 2008 / 10:52

WOW Fred the job of your dreams and in Peterborough.
It couldn't happen to a better
man.
You are loved by all your
family and we wish you and Delyse the best.

loving you,
mom


jim
September 3, 2008 / 10:58

congrats Freddie
Maybe you get Stafford a job out there were he can be on the air for more then 10 minutes a day
best of luck just remember management is the dark side of the universe with better pay
Corus made the right move


mad mal and hobbes
September 3, 2008 / 10:59

Good on ya, ya bugger!
Congrats.


Anonymous
September 3, 2008 / 11:13

Hey Freddie maybe you can bring in Toronto Mike to build your website the existing one is so 2002


LEW
September 3, 2008 / 11:23

Congrats Freddie!!!!
As you have with this blog - lead with your heart - you'll do great!


Jason C
September 3, 2008 / 11:37

Congrats Freddie!!!

Very happy for you. That's a great part of the province to hang your hat. I grew up in Huntsville (also a decent place) but spent a lot of time as a kid at my Grandfather's cottage which is on a lake in Coboconk so I am familiar with the area.

Keep us posted on through this site (your postings provide great reading material when I am on the can!).

All the best Fred!!!


Lindsay
September 3, 2008 / 11:41

Fred!! Congrats on your new and exciting job!
All of the best to you!!!
and if you are ever of thinking of moving closer to work i have a GREAT HOUSE for sale in Woodville! a mere 30 minutes to Peterborough!! LOL
All of the best!!!


Bob B
September 3, 2008 / 11:56

Freddie,

I am very happy for you and wish you all the best, especially good health. If you are blessed with it you've already won half the battle.

Since I won't be able to listen to these two stations, how about posting some audio clips on this site once in a while.

And pleeeze keep this blog going. It's always fun to visit. Again, good luck, enjoy and god bless you.

Bob


Matthew T
September 3, 2008 / 12:01

A huge congratulations to you there Freddie, wishing you all the luck! You're way better off out there then dealing with the BS that is in Toronto as I know since I'm the bizness. Hmm.. perhaps I should be sending you my resume, ha. Rock on bud! Cheers.
-Matt


mike from oakville
September 3, 2008 / 12:05

always knew you'd be back Fred. Congrats!


Mike from Lowville
September 3, 2008 / 12:08

Congrats Fred! That area suits you, Tory blue all the way......and hey can you turn the transmitter down at the WOLF. On a clear day it cuts in on my favourite station CIOI 101.5 Mohawk College radio.


Kelly
September 3, 2008 / 12:14

Congratulations! You're out of the hallway and through the door. That's fantastic. Very happy for you!


Dave Wilson
September 3, 2008 / 12:30

Just read your post about the new job and just had to send you a note of congratulations.
I really surprised myself at how pleased I am to hear the news... particularly since I really only know you through the blog.
I've been a regular Freddiep.ca reader for over a year (live in Connecticut now, Originally from Scarborough, Winston Churchill grad 86, my brother-in-law is Steve McKenzie, huge Humble and Fred / CFNY fan).
As scary as it may sound, you've been my primary daily (religiously so) connection back to all things Canadian... more so than even the online papers. I know more about your daily life than that of my closest friends back in Canada.

I'm heading up to the Kawarthas in a couple weeks for an annual guys weekend on Buckhorn Lake... Fishing, Poker, Horseshoes and Golf (at 6 Foot Bay I might add).

Can't wait to tune into the Wolf and know Freddie P is behind the scenes. Fantastic news !!


HEBSY
September 3, 2008 / 12:34

Hey Fred. Donna and I want to know if you can still come to Hamilton every so often to do your Tv thing? We'll fly you down or get you a limo. Your choice.
Congrats from all of us. Just remember, you're going to have to talk a lot more slowly up there so they can understand you.


Doug Gross
September 3, 2008 / 12:43

Congrats Freddie. I'm a long time fan, and have been a daily reader of yours the past couple years. I'm thrilled for you and your family.

I would love to hear you on air again in the Big Smoke, but it's great to hear that you're involved in radio still in a part of the province near and dear to your heart.

All the best! Loving You!!!


The Mind of a Mom
September 3, 2008 / 12:47

Hey Freddie

Congrads, on the amazing opportunity! I hope things go great for you with your new job.


Ivar Hamilton
September 3, 2008 / 12:57

Fred, looking forward to you putting your touch on "The Wattage In The Cottage!"

Ivar


gord
September 3, 2008 / 13:09

awesome news Fred, congrats!!


PartyPooper
September 3, 2008 / 13:09

AWESOME FREDDIE!!
It's nice to finally see the nice guy finish first.
Kudos to ya!


great pretender
September 3, 2008 / 13:12

Let me add my congrats to the ever expanding list which should reach 1K by suppertime.

Ok...here's your first playlist : Celine, ABBA, BNL's,K C and the Sunshine Band ,Anne Murray, Ohio Express and the Archies ( bubblegum, baby!)GARUMPH !!

The sound you hear is 500 hard rockers upchucking their Molson's Ex...and Keith Richards just belched (if he were still alive)

But seriously, all the best in cottage country where the sun always shines.


Braindrainxp
September 3, 2008 / 13:24

Congrats! SNOW REMOVAL MACHINE IN HIGH ROTATION!!!!!!!


Missy Dee
September 3, 2008 / 13:32

I have the biggest smile on my face right now! Congratulations, my man. Couldn't have happened to a better guy.


Susie
September 3, 2008 / 14:30

Hamilton Peterborough---talk slowly...guess Bancroft isn't that far off.


Graham
September 3, 2008 / 16:10

Well done my man!! That is great news. I only hope y0uo can clean up the Wolf. It stinks! Please take a look at the play list and then look at a Q107 playlist from 1986 and they will be carbon copies. Put some life into that staion! I understand your hands are ties somewhat but I would actually listen if they updated the music.

Good luck!!


Stephen
September 3, 2008 / 16:44

Congratulations Freddie!!


Rob
September 3, 2008 / 16:45

Congratulations Fred - good things come to those who wait. Best of luck to you in your new position.


Phil
September 3, 2008 / 16:48

Way to go Freddie, I am really pleased for you. You will be perfect for this position.


Nick
September 3, 2008 / 16:50

Congrats YA BUGGER!!

Guess I'll have to move to the Kawarthas now!!

Luvin YA

Nick


Pauly Walnuts
September 3, 2008 / 17:02

Congratulations Fred, it was only a matter of time. I'm very happy for you.

Heard the news today on Bill Carol's show. He gave you a very kind congratulations.

Fred, when everything is going peachy, everyone is the same, but when life throws you a curve, that's when you show what you're made of. During your "time away" I think you should be very proud of what you've created.

Good luck, they'll never know what the f*ck hit them. :)


Pete's Best
September 3, 2008 / 17:08

Wow, what a great challenge..giving advice to local washouts as to which fart jokes to use and then calling them into your cubicle and boring them with those "when I was with Humble" stories. Great luck scheduling those furniture store on location updates and those Ag. reports.


cragar77
September 3, 2008 / 18:00

Way to go Freddie. As a CFNY listener when I lived in the Toronto area and a lifelong Stony Laker and Sir Sandford Fleming College graduate, can you make those 2 stations have a larger playlist?


J9
September 3, 2008 / 18:05

Awesome news - best of luck! Looking forward to hearing about this new adventure.


Hector
September 3, 2008 / 18:06

Way to go Fred! You deserve it.


Buffalo Boy Mike
September 3, 2008 / 18:23

Freddie,
Good luck man! Congradulations!


lastwordlinda
September 3, 2008 / 18:32

Fannntaastic!!! Congratulations Freddie. The universe is definitely unfolding as it should. Have fun. You deserve this good fortune. Very glad to read that you will continue with the FreddieP blog. I would really miss it.


The Big Man Restless
September 3, 2008 / 19:15

Congrats Freddie! I'm glad this opportunity has come your way and wish you nothing but success!! That being said, I'm a little sad you may leave Brampton as I always thought you'd be the next mayor here!

Be well!!


Airforce
September 3, 2008 / 19:51

Good to go Freddie! I worked the Peterborough market, (but at Country 105); you'll enjoy the town and I'm sure you'll make The Wolf HOWL!

Again, congrats and all the best!


cb
September 3, 2008 / 19:51

Congratulations Fred! That is such great news. For those of us who are interested in radio but not familiar with the business, you should write an entry which explains what a Program Director actually does! Will you be on air at all or strictly behind the scenes? Either way though, I'm sure you'll do great. Congrats again!


cb
September 3, 2008 / 19:52

Congratulations Fred! That is such great news. For those of us who are interested in radio but not familiar with the business, you should write an entry which explains what a Program Director actually does! Will you be on air at all or strictly behind the scenes? Either way though, I'm sure you'll do great. Congrats again!


Max
September 3, 2008 / 20:06

It would take an incredibly small, peevish, dickless twerp to post anything but the very best of wishes for finding yourself back into your favoured career. Imagine the type of person who could actually feel better submitting a mean-spirited post rather than one of congratulations. Anyway, I've given that smug moron too much attention already.

Thanks Freddie, for letting us get to know you and being able to share in your happiness. Well deserved! All the best.


McArthur
September 3, 2008 / 20:25

Incredible news Fred!

All I know is there are some incredibly lucky announcers in Peterborough who are gonna benefit from a guy who had it all figured out a long time ago

Best in your new endeavor!


Toronto Mike
September 3, 2008 / 20:38

I'm on the case, Max.

Pete's Best's comment was posted from 69.49.54.63 and that, my friends, is Welland Guy, a troll I wrote about at http://www.torontomike.com/2008/08/dont_feed_the_trolls_shoot_em.html

That IP addy has now been blocked. I'm a troll slayer. I slay trolls, that's what I do.

And Fred, I posted a little note about your new gig since we chatted. Check it out at http://www.torontomike.com/2008/09/good_news_for_freddie_p.html


Thorpee in the Falls
September 3, 2008 / 22:05

Freddie Boy,
great news! When we're in Tweed, you can be sure where our radio the dial will be set!


Rick C in Oakville
September 3, 2008 / 22:13

Hey FreddieP congrats on the new gig. Was this the possible reason for your earlier Blog question asking everyone what they thought would make a new and exciting format?
You'll have to grow a mullett to blend in Pbro. Wolf is always on at my sisters cottage in Bancroft, just needs a bit more aerial to keep it from fading in and out.

Hope you can make it on the airwaves so we can hear your familiar voice again.

Does this mean that Leons is really having their last sale and we won't see these prices again? JK!!

Good Luck you deserve this and the Wolf has brought a seasoned pro under their roof.


Stephanie Wilkinson
September 3, 2008 / 22:20

Freddie.. my husband is from Peterborough and spent his teenage years listening to 'the Wolf". Good for you ... It's still the station we listen too when travelling back to the Patch...

How many couples do you know where one half grew up in Brampton (Bramalea) and the other half in Peterborough?

It's all good..

Loving you...
Steff



Dave O
September 4, 2008 / 00:00

Great News Fred!!!!


Stacy
September 4, 2008 / 08:00

congrats...fred
i live up here and listen to the wolf all the time when I can not get virgin, chum or easy rock...which always happens when i head to peterborough...and as well as at work.............
so it will be fantastic to see what you do with the station


LDR
September 4, 2008 / 08:31

Hi Freddie, Congrats!!! I am sure you are relieved. I hope you are going to give yourself some on-air time. Let us know.


Anonymous
September 4, 2008 / 08:51

Some guys have all the luck.


JM
September 4, 2008 / 09:16

Congrats, Fred!!! Patience IS a virtue, and you are a Virtuous Dude!


Bob Noxious
September 4, 2008 / 11:12

Good on ya Fred! Enjoy the easier lifestyle of the country. I sure do. I'm excited fer ya!.....b.


Doug
September 4, 2008 / 11:51

Awe Freddie....I'm so proud of ya!
Way to go.


pigeon toed dave
September 4, 2008 / 15:31

A great big congrats Mr. P. Best move you will ever make. Now if you can squeeze the scruffer into a time slot it would be amazing for the ratings. From a former big smoke jumper...... All the best.


Jason | GetYourOJ.com
September 4, 2008 / 17:36

Congrats Freddie and good luck. I'm sure you'll excel at this new challenge! Good going!

Lots of great things happening in radio lately... finally... like CBC 2 drive time for example!


Ed
September 4, 2008 / 20:28

Freddie P, good things happen to good people and you are getting your due. Your patience and perserverance have paid off. You are one lucky bugger being able to work up there but the commute might be a bitch :) Please keep up the blog, it's the only one I read.


Ed
September 4, 2008 / 20:34

Sorry, I meant to include this link

http://www.thewolf.ca/index.html


Donny P.
September 4, 2008 / 23:49

Freddie:

Nobody deserves this more than you. We all know what an incredible job you will do with those stations. And up in Dreamland no less. This is perfect. I've been so happy since you told me about this. Ya Bugger!


Scottish Colin
September 5, 2008 / 15:18

Oh my god!
Oh my god!
Oh my god!
I have just called the local police station, the Trenton Army base and am still considering calling the ministry of natural resources to warn them what they have done in letting FreddieP come live and work in PTBO!

Freddie you bugger, you know im only kidding about the first 2 but i do think ill be calling the ministry as your going to possibly bring up the areas polution with what i have heard are totally wicked farts!!!

Wish you the very best of luck in your new home and am pretty sure well be seeing quite a bit of each other...

I look forward to you coming as promised after the last game of golf we had and shoveling my driveway all winter long and i forgot to tell you that my driveway isnt as small as i might of let on :)

Loving you always

Colin


neil morrison
September 8, 2008 / 16:58

Probabaly remember this quote Freddie boy ( from the 70's Canada cup after Sittler beat Jiri Cira at the Forum ) the cover of the following day's paper said it all:

" Coudn't have happned to a nicer guy! "

Atta boy. Now how about some new editions of JAY'S JOKE OF THE DAY!

nm


« And To These People Too The Ultimate Raft Party »