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John Nichols Celebrates 40 Years "On The Air" in Collingwood |
The More Things Change The More They Stay The Same |
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A lot of things have changed up and down your radio dial over the past forty years. But one thing remains the same. John Nichols is on the radio when the sun comes up. "I just can't believe it has been 40 years" Nichols said over and over again at a celebration of his 40th anniversary at CKCB Radio (now 95.1 The Peak FM) on Friday, February 18th, at the Olde Red Hen Restaurant in downtown Collingwood. For some reason, Nichols seemed to be surprised by the large turnout. "Man, I'm overwhelmed. This is unbelievable" he said. "I can't believe how many people have come in this morning." Many people had a story to tell about an association or event that took place over the past four decades that connected them to the radio station and in turn to John Nichols. Peak FM Manager John Eaton said that John's long run is a result of his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. "I grew up in Toronto listening to the radio, but I never really knew the announcers. People in this town not only listen to John, they know him." A long list of special guests popped by to extend anniversary greetings to Nichols, including Collingwood Mayor Sandra Cooper, Collus Executive Director Ed Houghton, downtown business owners, police officers, fire fighters, former co-workers and old frirends. Even former NHL Player Assocition Execituve Director Al Eagleson dropped by with a gift for John. As you can imagine, John Nichols has worked in all areas of the business over the past 40 years in Collingwood. We all know him as the familiar morning show host, but he has also hosted many remote broadcasts, open-line talk shows, provided play-by-play of home and away hockey and baseball games, sold radio advertising and has written and delivered his fair share of news and sports reports. He was on the air in Collingwood when they launched huge great lakes freighters at the foot of Hurontario Street. He was here when the first professional ski racing series came to town. He is a recipient of many community honours and awards including the Order of Collingwood. When John first came to CKCB radio, you played 45's on turntables that you had to start and stop yourself, and keep your eye on at all times. Commercials were recorded and played individually on what looked like eight track carts. You couldn't leave the control room for very long because you had to keep everything moving along. Today, all broadcast elements are delivered by hard drive. You can start and stop the radio station from a remote location if you have a computer. Carly Simon has been bumped off the charts by Lady Gaga. But a microphone is still a microphone and a familiar friend on the radio is still most welcome in the morning. So when is enough enough? Nichols isn't ready to talk retirement. Not yet. So the hits will just keep on coming! |
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| Collingwood Mayor Sandra Cooper extended greetings from the Town of Collingwood, and presented John with a special gift to help celebrate his 40th anniversary. |
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| The "Eagle" landed at the anniversary party. Former NHL Player Association Executive Director Alan Eagleson dropped by with a special gift for John. |
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