Eastside Republican Club dinner/auction Dec 5th
I wanted to invite you all to the ERC dinner/auction on December 5th. It will be a great event and I am the MC. For further info and tickets, go to www.eastsiderepublicanclub.org Come on out and have a great time.
UPDATE – FISHER HAS DEDICATED A PHONE LINE JUST FOR COMMENTS RELATED TO MY DEPARTURE. 206-404-3010. FEEL FREE TO CALL.
First, let me thank all of you for the tremendous outpouring of support, friendship and love. It is overwhelming and humbling, and was totally unexpected. You all will never know what it means to me and my family. And, a special thanks to Dan and Laura Kiel. They are people of principle, and, if you need a mortgage, now more than ever, go see them.
Secondly, let me say that I wish that management had kept this a private matter, between them and me, where it should be. It is a personnel matter and should not be in the public arena. But, I will defend myself, and since they opened the door, here is my side of the story.
Money, management says, is one of the reasons for my departure. Really? Well, first, I was paid very well, probably too well. But my salary was not the result of long tortuous negotiations, or ridiculous demands and tantrums by me. Three years ago, Dennis Kelly, then Program Director, asked me one day what it would take to keep me at KVI. He said they wanted me to end my career there, to retire there, and wanted to do what it would take to keep me. I, with tongue firmly planted in cheek, said that I wanted more than John Carlson made ( this was before his exile to KOMO ). I had no idea what that was, we had never talked about it, but about a week later, I received an unbelievable offer from Dennis, about a 50% increase. After I picked my jaw up off the floor, I called my agent and said sign before they change their mind. I would have stayed for no increase, but, they offerred.
Secondly, early this year, I received a memo from management about our contractual annual step increases. I would guess there are about six of us at Fisher radio with contracts that allow for an annual increase. We were asked by Jim Clayton if we would consider not accepting them due to the poor financial condition of the company. I immediately said of course, I don’t need it as badly as Fisher does. Jim came to the studio with the proper paperwork to revise my contract and said thanks, my move was appreciated.
Thirdly, approximately four months ago, I sent an email to Mr Clayton with some ideas on taking advantage of the political situation in 2010 to benefit the station. In that memo, I told him that I was willing to take a cut in salary, because I understood the financial situation that Fisher was in. I never received a reply to the email. Several times in person I reiterated to both Jim and Dennis that I was more than willing to take a cut in salary, and when my pay was mentioned as part of our high overhead, I reminded them that my pay was the result of a generous offer made by management three years ago, that I would have been a fool to say ‘ That’s too high ‘, that I would have taken much less.
Now, ratings. I had a meeting after the show on Friday, November 6, with Travis Box, our Program Director. The new ratings had just come out and that was the main topic. Here is what I was told:
1.) Our ratings had been improving and climbing steadily over the past six to nine months.
2.) We were ahead of Glenn Beck, our competition, in the 35-64 age demo
3.) We were behind in the 25-54 age demo.
4.) We were the highest-rated daypart on the station, consistently outperforming the rest of the shows on the station.
5.) An expected upward tick in Beck’s ratings due to his appearance here in September did not occur
Mind you, Glenn has a national TV show, several best-selling books and lots of promotion money. We had nothing, zero, zip, nada to help us promote the show. And, if management was concerned about the ratings, at no time did they ask to meet with us on specific ideas or recommendations on how to improve them. We were told that we would rename the show ‘Kirby and Company’ which really didn’t help our ratings. When we came up with ideas, we were consistently told we had no money for promotion.
Let me say that the real losers in this are the many charities and good causes we helped, like the Boy Scouts, Operation Support Our Troops, Union Gospel Mission and Toys for Tots. And then, causes like the Medal of Honor Memorial at the University of Washington, which I doubt would even exist without the KVI audience.
There is more to say, but I think I have said enough. If management had kept this a matter between us, where it belonged, I would have said nothing. But, 700 emails on Friday, the loss of a significant advertiser, a steady volume of phone calls, I’m sure they were caught off-guard and had to say something. I understand some even suggested that all these calls were part of a GOP conspiracy and did not reflect real KVI listeners. I know better. They should.
May God bless you and may He bless the United States of America.
288 Responses to “Eastside Republican Club dinner/auction Dec 5th”
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Kimberly says:
Kirby, thank you for letting us hear your side of the story. I’m sure that your are keeping your tongue on some of the issues, and I respect you for that. I have been beside myself trying to find something to listen to in the morning now that you aren’t there. I hope you get another morning show so I can continue to begin my day informed and with a smile. KVI lost a loyal listener of 15 years.
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Jerry K says:
Dear friend Kirby:
You have always been the best. When it came to advocacy on local and state issues, the correct candidates, accountability in public office and public policy initiatives, you were always there for us.KVI has made a big error and, as Christians, we believe in the powers of redemption. They should come to their senses and rehire you. The radio business has gotten a lot more competitive and challenging, but it doesn’t help their situation – or bottom line – to forget who brought them to success. Especially during a time of conservative and grass roots resurgence. Shame on them.
For us, your loyal friends, listeners and supporters — we will always stand by you and be loyal to the true and honest friend who lived as a defender of freedom and conservative and family values.
God bless and keep you Kirby. You will be back and we will be with you.
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Joe from Everett says:
Keep us POSTED as to future!
It’s hard to wake-up without “COLORS!” being played.
Listen to last Friday’s replacement
and knew that I wasn’t missing anything. What banal dribble. -
Dano says:
Hey Kirby, I remember when you STARTED on KVI. I was in the employment business and even had a copy of your old resume at the time! I listened to you improve with age, like fine wine, donated to Toys for Tots many times, and my wife and I even had dinner with you and yours one time at Ruth’s Chris. I have to be honest and say i was in recent times a split listener between you and Glen, all depending on the topic du jour. But I was extremely saddened by what happened and how they treated you. YOU were the only reason I listened to KVI anymore, and John Gibson will be no replacement for you — ever. I have no idea where you go from here, but I truly wish you all the best. Fisher made a huge mistake years ago by losing Limbaugh, and they have lost their direction ever since. Too bad management didn’t just cut themselves and let the talent run the place as I am sure you all could do a much better job.
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Nancy says:
I’m sure by now KVI has realized what a huge mistake they have made. And you’re right. All the charities supported by listeners to your program are at a loss, but not as much as your listeners. Where else can we go to get the substantive interviews and historical perspective you gave us? Nowhere. Your absence from the morning airwaves is a huge loss. May the Lord provide a way for you to come back to local radio soon.
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Chip says:
KVI started a downhill spiral when they started loosing local conversation to syndicated national hosts. Over the years Kirby had become my friend as I traveled to work each day. His concern and love for our troops brightened my day, his conversations with my fellow veterans often left me in tears, and his dedication to worthy charities is his tribute.
Like Kirby or dislike him we can all agree that Kirby is a man of principle, faith, and always treated callers and guests with dignity and respect. I no longer listen to KVI and have passed my sediments to Fisher Broadcasting leadership. This is a mistake and I can only hope that other stations are lining up at Kirby’s door to sign him up. Perhaps this is a chance to go national.
What ever your future is Kirby, you will face it not alone, but with thousands of friend supporting you.
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Susan says:
EEK! I’m sad sad to hear you are gone!
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Conservative Kirby Fan says:
All I can say now is CALL SARAH PALIN, SHE HAS A RUNNING MATE AVAILABLE. The two of you running for office in 2012 would be the perfect storm on Washington, D.c.
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Dave says:
Kirby, I sure do miss not listining to you and hope you find a local station to hang your hat soon
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Jason Woodruff says:
I lived in Seattle during 2004-2006. Kirby was a mainstay for me. When I moved to Indiana, I kept listening online, although a lot of the local stuff didn’t apply, even though people like ron simms sucked so much they got promoted, I really appreciated his take on national issues.
Kirby, I would guess that there are plenty of other markets that would be happy to have you. Keep up the good work. -
Sue says:
Still stunned with the news. Hope you keep up this site – cuz I need your book recommendations, political insight etc., etc., etc.
KVI – I think I now understand the expression cutting off your nose to spite your face. Kirby is a national treasure – KVI is history with me. -
Nate says:
Tough break Kirby. Just got home from Afghanistan all jet lagged and unable to sleep. I got in my car driving around looking for the perfect cup of coffee. I turned on the radio to hear someone on KVI that wasn’t you. Ruined my morning….You’ve done a lot of good work in the past and I’m sure you’ll continue.
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Scott Simon says:
As a former N/T PD, this is just another example of lame azz management would couldn’t sell heaters to eskimos.
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Debi says:
Wow! I was out of town when evidently everything blew up…came back and couldn’t find you on the air. I hope you find another venue soon, maybe at the national sydicated level. You are sorely missed in the morning. KVI has made a huge mistake
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Kevin says:
Thanks for many years of great radio and spot on political comment. KVI made a mistake and now everybody pays for it. I hope you take these great comments to your next Seattle radio job interview and show how much you are missed. We do miss you. God bless.
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George Lau says:
This doesn’t smell right to me. None of the so-called reasons make any sense, as Kirby points out. This has Rahm Emmanuel’s fingerprints all over it.
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Steve Morris says:
I miss your local coverage with my coffee. At least you didn’t get Schramed. I said goodbye to KVI. I hope you can find another AM slot in Seattle.
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CJ says:
This is just the beginning of something better, I believe; you have only closed one chapter in your life only to open another. God bless and take care. The future has never been brighter for us, and oppotrunity abounds.
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Trish Warfel says:
Kirby, It has been such a pleasure to listen to you for soooo many years, and to know you. Your integrity shines for all to see, and inspires many. So in this passing world, as you know, life is not fair…and God has great plans for you. Your light will continue to shine!
“We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
I’ll be following you on facebook and I look forward to hearing about your new path.Blessings to you and Tina!
Trish Warfel -
Ed in Puyallup says:
KVI has lost more than an audience… It has lost a strong voice for the truth. It goes without saying, Kirby was a vestige for the unheard conservative voices in the Blue State of Washington! I am waiting for Fisher to respond to my email… but I won’t be waiting long. I’ve already tuned into the competition station and am listening far less to KVI. I was a proud KVI listener too…!
Kirby… God’s blessings pour out on you as we wait for your next challenge! He’s in control
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Karen in Lynnwood says:
Kirby, Have talked to you several times on-air while carpooling kids to school. We will miss our history & civics lessons, but most of all, we will miss YOU! Hopefully, KVI’s loss will be another media outlet’s gain and we’ll being seeing or hearing from you real soon. May God bless you & your family.
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Joe says:
I told my kids about how you handled the Ron Paul supporter side, of the vote for president (I was on his side) with respect for us as Americans, even though you didn’t think it was wise to support him the way we did. You didn’t condem us or make us feel like we were hurting America like so many mainstream republicans did. Thank you for that and all my respect to you.
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Dan Millard says:
Kirby,
I was astounded after finding out KVI had cut you. You have been a moral compass to those of us that live in this liberal region. Your faith in God & our Country was always uplifting and was a light in a dark world to us. You will truly be missed. -
Joel says:
I have listened to you since 96 when I moved here. You have prvided great insight so that I could make more informed decisions. You will be missed by us and we are trying to find another place to get information on local politics.
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Alan Deright says:
Kirby, “You’ll Be Back” and “You Shall Return” to paraphrase some pop culture and history. Now, in your spare time, will you please terminate cap and tax, shut down Obamacare, create and save 10 million jobs, find Osama, and start on the offensive line for the Seahawks? Thanks for all the call-ins you allowed me to sputter, rant, rave, and pontificate concerning the great issues of those glorious mornings.
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Pam Hall says:
Kirby, my friend:
I was shocked when I heard you were gone from KVI. I have not tuned in one day since you left. 570 is off my radio buttons at home, at work, and in my big, red pickup truck! They made a huge mistake, and I hope they suffer for their poor business decision. I miss you so very much. You’ve done so much for so many in our community, and that is a void that cannot be filled by anyone else. We’ve also lost the one broadcaster who kept us on top of all the local and state issues, and that’s a huge loss for the people in this state who care about America and what we stand for. God bless you, Kirby, for all you’ve done for us and will continue to do. You are a blessing, my friend, and I pray for you every day. God will open a beautiful door for you, I know it in my heart. Please let your loyal fans and friends know if there is anything we can do for you. Miss you tons and tons! Your friend and fan always, Pam. -
As much as I like Laura I, Sean H, Mark L, and “Brian and the Judge,” I will not be listening to KVI unless absolutely necessary. KVI was “THE” conservative talk station and should be given much credit for giving conservatism a voice in this land laden with liberals. And Kirby was (is?) THE local conservative voice, but he was much more than that. A patriot, a great conservative, and someone who used his time and money for many good causes that benefited our communities and our dialogue.
God bless you, Kirby!
And all I can say to KVI is “BRING BACK KIRBY!”
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Don says:
Kirby,
Now that you are free from the restraints of KVI and their law firm, DWT; are you now willing to expose the corruption in the courts of the state of Washington? I’ve got all the proof you need. Just email me.
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Jeff Pike says:
Kirby, I’m anxious to see what God has in store for you next. My morning drive will seem a lot longer and dull without your voice on the radio. Sadly after listening to you from DAY ONE, I have deleted KVI from my presets.
Can’t wait to see where you will victoriously emerge! -
rubbishqueen says:
Kirby,
Thank you so much for the many teachable moments that you had, I learned alot that I didn’t know. KVI sure made a mistake in firing you and I will no longer be listening to them in the morning. We knew what was happening in Olympia and with all the many organizations you supported, and what we had to do to get involved in the process. I think even the odd ducks you had call in will miss you also.
God bless my friend -
Carmen Hassold says:
I will miss you. What was KVI thinking?… Take care and god bless you. You are the best! Sincerely, Carmen
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Dan says:
Kirby, All the best to you and your family in your next endeavor. I’ve been a long time listener…I was the guy who called in a bid from the Tuscon Airport for the Rose Bowl tickets you were autioning off when the Cougs finally went back. I eagerly look forward to hearing more from you soon…somewhere…somehow. God bless!
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Fred Starck says:
I started listening to KVI in 1988. That was when I first met you to, when I was a precinct commiteeman and you were district chairman(?). There were the 4th of July celebrations at your house. The time when Rush came to town, and many others.
There were many years when I could have welded the dial on my radio to KVI 570. Then Fisher bought the station amid claims that there would be no changes. But soon Michael Medved was released for Sean, then Rush moved and I had to switch from 9 to noon. I tried to listen to Sean but missed Mike, so noon to 3 was easy to follow Rush. After that little by little I found myself staying with the other station. I missed the three of you, Mike, John and you Kirby hashing over the election results etc. Except for 5AM to 9AM. That was Kirby time.
I called a few times but you were always my wake up call. Monday after you left I was in the dumps. You felt like family and now you arn’t there.
Kirby, I know you are destined for great things, I just hope they are somewhere where I (we, Sherry wants in too) Can get the program. You are the greatest, God bless you and your family! -
the Northwestern Diamondback says:
Kirby, we used to cross paths at Puyallup Borders a lot (short heavy dude in khaki and shades( and I occasionally added commentary to things from the show by email, if these help jog your memory.
Far as I’m concerned, Fisher just filed to have themselves served with a Burn Notice–I’ve been growing disillusioned with them ever since ditching Medved and Rush, Suits accelerated it and you were the final flashpoint. Having seen how this company treats those who are loyal to it, I see no reason to be loyal to the disloyal. Sorry, Carleen and Travis, but you’re “collateral damage”.
Hope it all works out soon via either another station, going national or some other position of influence!
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Roxanne O'Hair says:
Kirby, I cannot tell you how much I miss your level headed, factual and history based input. I really value your take on issues. You are a real gentleman and that you care is duely noted and muchly appreciated. I was no plused with Brian Suits “disappearance” from KVI was not happy with the changes to and end of John Carlson on KVI, but your “disappearance caused me to call and in tears challenge their decision to cut your show. I pray you find someplace locally so as a conservative I can get an honest take on issues from one I have grown to trust. Thanks and God bless.
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Kirby-
I am apalled! I certainly was shocked when I turned on the radio only to find you MIA! I have listened to you since way back when David Boze was your assistant and fill in. KVI is the true loser in this. I have always said you were going to go big someday and this is your chance!
I cannot believe KVI would rob the public of all the goodness that you spread with you appeals for help with all your great causes!
Kirby, from the bottom of my heart, good luck and God bless!
God has a much better plan for you!
Marcy
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Gracious Street says:
Kirby, I really miss you in the morning. I began my day with KVI and your program and I ended it with that crazy show Coast to Coast. I now only tune in for the latter.
There is so much that I miss in the morning I don’t know where to begin. I think I was addicted:-).
Best of luck with what ever it is that you wish to do. Just let us know where you land and we will be there. -
Anton says:
I HAD to write the station and voice my opinion.. yeah I know opinions are like… Ummm well you know everyone has an opinion!
Here is a copy of my letter. Rock on Kirby!
I would suggest SOMEONE at Fisher Have the Management ( General Manager: Jim Clayton / AM Group Program Director: Dennis Kelly / Program Director: Travis Box) go take some mandatory drug testing… What are they thinking? Are they on Crack? I thought that KVI was a “Local” station… I guess not. What is next? Dave Ross is coming to replace Kirby Wilbur and John Carlson??? What will that shrub hugging Prius driver do for us? Teach us how to be more compassionate to terrorists?
Look it is not that I do not like the people you have on your station… But who the hell is going to keep us up to date on the current events in the local area? Bill O’Reily ? Glen Beck? Shep?
I think Not…
You guys made a big mistake! Bring back some local talent… Put down the Doobie… Drop the crack pipe… Go get some help.
Thanks for letting me RANT! Anton
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Diane says:
I have never called into a radio program until I listened to you on KVI and now I feel like I have lost a great friend. You are someone who connected me to the local community and kept me apprised of important local issues. I have listened faithfully to you for years, since you started on KVI. I judge you to be honorable, extremely charitable, intelligent and informed. I can’t tell you how much I will miss you. You have touched my heart over the years and was the best thing KVI had on its lineup. KVI has disappointed a very loyal fan base and our days just won’t be the same without your slant on life and your enthusiasm to start the day. I think my days of tuning in to KVI have come to an end….and I told them so.
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DJ Anderson says:
Unfortunately, KVI has lost me as a listener. There are two sides of every story; however,the side I care about is that Kirby Wilbur is gone. As soon as a local intelligent radio station grabs him, I want to be told. That radio station will then have my loyalty.
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John K - Mountlake Terrace says:
Kirby, After I moved to Seattle from Kansas City, I found the radio station that had Rush, and I found JC and you. I lost my conservative talker in KC to a station format change, and am always disguested how radio station management pulls the rug out from under you and leaves their ‘bread and butter’ to hang out to dry. You will be sorely missed in the morning, and not only do the KVI listeners lose a friend but our country will lose a voice of a patriot. But knowing you, and all of your contacts, I know KVI can’t silence you, and we’ll see you on Fox News or filling in for Hannity or even Rush. I would even like you to look into Internet Braodcasting to fill in while you are looking for your next gig. I will definitely keep tabs on you and hope to be hearing you back in one form or another. God Bless you and your family, and may you have a blessed
Christmas and a Happy New Year. -
Dale Owen says:
THE POWERS TO BE at KVI have lost their minds and a great man and host in KIRBY WILBUR GOODLUCK KURB
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“KVI has always maintained a strong commitment to local programming, while also choosing some of the most interesting and compelling national programming.” (11/28/2009 – http://www.kvi.com/about/about). With only ONE hour of local programming left, someone should remind them of how far the station has drifted. It is ironic that the proof of their decay is posted on their own website. I can only speculate that Fisher must be intentionally running it into the ground for some less than obvious reason.
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Jericho says:
KVI has been on a long cowardly slide since the Kirby and John led the effort to overturn the transportation gas tax increase and KVI was sued for it and investigated by the elections commission. They are corporate cowards hiding behind a corporate skirt.
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Brad says:
Kirby,
I turned on the radio Monday morning and no Kirby. It was not until this Wednesday that I was able to get on the computer and find out what happened. Let me say thank you for making my mornings for the last 15 years or so. It was during the Clinton gun ban era that I tuned into KVI and figured out that I wasn’t a Democrat but a conservative. Most of that was due to you, John and at the time Mike Segal. KVI has been slowly loosing me for a couple of years now. You were the last local show on the station and you and Mark Levin were the only shows I listened to. KVI has now truly lost me and 770 will be my new home. I wish you and yours the very best and will greatly miss hearing the Star Spangled Banner every morning on the way to work. Maybe this is Gods way of giving you time to consider running for office. Just a thought. God Bless. -
Steve says:
Kirby, You will be missed by all of us. But I know you will show up in a better place if that is your desire. I have been a faithful follower from the beginning. Even back when you use to fill in on the evening shows before they gave the 9 PM to 11 PM slot to you. We have done alot with you at the helm. I remember getting on the other side of the barrier at Westlake and yelling “NO” to Hillary right in her face as she tried to sell us “Hillary Care”. And so many other efforts. Picnic’s out on the island at Mr. Stewart’s ranch, and etc. You and you lovely wife will rise again, and we here in Seattle will be the better for it. I will be praying for you. Just enjoy the holidays while you can. God has a plan. He always does.
Steve -
Terri says:
Thank you Kirby for being such a strong positive voice. I left a message with my sadness of not having you on air anymore. Been a listener since 1993. I don’t listen to KVI anymore if I want Natl. input I watch FoxNews, I want to have our local voices and state political coverage. This feels like a stunt to take out the voice of our state to hold the Democratic control and King County stronghold. It will be KVI’s loss, keep us informed I will be listening where ever your show will go. Thank you for your care and consideration for the Broadcaster financial troubles and being so willing to forfeit your livelyhood to keep your audience informed. Glenn Beck is great, but he’s not talking Washington State anymore. I like both of your History and Founding Father knowledge. We are a Republic!
God Bless -
Roger says:
Kirby.you are the man.Honestly. maybe sometimes too nice.But a true roll model.I’ve called in many times over the years as you “hooked” me on talk radio.I remember Kirby,Rush,Michael&Wiessbach.That was radio.!@#$% KVI!
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George says:
Kirby – another listener caught off guard. I listened to you with a sense of pride that you were a local conservative talent that could syndicate – but as a local talent can’t compete w syndication. That said, your local commentary was my morning jolt. you have a lot of class – I look forward to your next step – hopefully in the Seattle media.
Sincerely,
George
I always thought you were well prepped on the local issues, something that was appreciated when we knew you had to get up at 200 in the morning.