WTVJ was the dominant station in Miami television; I grew up watching it. And I was incredibly lucky to work there, both in the news department and for a wonderful magazine show called Montage.
Every day was an adventure— in front of the camera or behind the scenes.
I learned so much. I loved every minute.
Apparently everyone else has the same fond memories of Channel 4 in the old days. People are coming in from all over the country this weekend for a reunion.
I scan down the list of people attending; so many names, so many stories, so many memories—representing a huge chunk of my own history. After starting as an intern, knowing absolutely nothing about the industry, I lived and breathed television for years; WTVJ was like my home.
John, my news producer, was even responsible for me going on a date one night, which led to my marriage and move to California.
Since I left, I haven’t been in touch with many people. So I couldn’t wait to get back and reconnect with friends and colleagues who had been such an important part of my life.
Only I won’t be there.
Due to family complexities that could not be rearranged, I realized a few weeks ago that I would have to stay in California. I’m really disappointed, and I’ve been feeling kind of sorry for myself to miss an event like this that won’t come around again. It’s just one of those things that happen, when timing and the universe line up aganst you.
At least I’ll get my own little reunion— Daniel is coming home for spring break tomorrow with a couple of friends.
So I will send love—long distance—to my WTVJ family. And a piece of my heart will be in Miami with them. But nothing means more to me than being a mom. Once Daniel is home, I’m sure my heart will be as full as it can possibly be.
Just how much excitement do you think you can handle in one year? You already have bragging rights for attending the epoch-making inauguration of Barack Obama, Ms. Globetrotter!
Those photos are incredible! You were the only woman? Drew said “It looks like Anchorman.” Ah Darryle -I am amazed that you truly never cease to amaze me after all these years!
This just proves, Myra, how much older I am than you. There weren’t many women in TV news yet, and it WAS like the movie Anchorman. As exciting as it was—and as great as the reunion will be—as you say, Mark, it doesn’t quite measure up to the inauguration. Still, I wouldn’t have had to WALK to the airport in Miami.
The walk to MIA would have been much longer and more dangerous, though nowhere nearly as cold.
Hey, you haven’t changed a bit!
Yeah Duchess–and your eyes apparently aren’t what they used to be. At least that’s one benefit of not going to the reunion—everyone will remember me the way I was!
How hysterical that the copy writer killed the part of your bio–that you were in the first coed graduating class at Yale–that would have made you look like a carpetbagger!
In TV news, my education usually took a backseat to my hairstyle. And things are far worse today.