Well deserved honors for La Crosse broadcasters

The La Crosse area is suddenly well represented on a list of Wisconsin’s top broadcasters. The Wisconsin Broadcast Association has named those who will be inducted into the broadcasters Hall of Fame this summer, and there are some familiar names. Among them, the former General Manager of this radio station, Howard Gloede. Howard spent 40 years at this station, starting as an intern, then excelling in sales, and finally becoming General Manager of Mid-West Family La Crosse. He was a mentor to me and many others over the years, and he is missed every day. Also to be inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame is someone familiar to longtime radio listeners in La Crosse, Gene Purcell. Gene got his start at WLSU on the UWL campus before rising through the ranks to become station manager, before leaving to serve as Director of Wisconsin Public Media. He was a colleague, a friend and a kind soul. Unfortunately, both Howard and Gene will be inducted posthumously. Also being recognized by the WBA, a familiar voice to listeners of this station, Mike Hayes, who is being named a local legend for his longtime role as the voice of La Crosse Talk on WIZM as well as his service to the community. All good choices for recognition, which fittingly will come at the WBA summer convention in La Crosse later this year. It has been a pleasure to know and to work alongside these fine broadcasters, and fitting that they are now being recognized for their contributions to the industry.