I’ve seen recent articles about my friend and colleague Tim Johnstone, another winner in a long line of the “I used to work in media” sweepstakes.  

I began working with Tim when he hosted a specialty show on KIYS; Post Modern, which was essentially ALT before ALT was called ALT.  A few chess moves later, Tim joined up to help launch the X in 1995, from which he eventually migrated to the River.    I don't know a sole with a more expansive knowledge of music - most notably on the alternative side of the street. I could easily go on. Let's just say there aren't many people who can claim a working friendship with TIm for 35 years. But I can.

I know ownership at Lotus has tough choices to make. But sometimes you don't know whatcha got 'til it's gone. (Tim could tell you the Counting Crows version is better.)

I won’t armchair quarterback what occurred since I’ve been away from it for what’ll be three years in February.  But I will say that the group just lost an asset that can never be replaced.  Rochelle will do a nice job; she is as much the River as Tim has been.  In 25 years, the River has had very, very few staff changes.  Gary McCabe, Teri Tate, Mark Robertson, Ken Bass, Deb Courson, Tim, Rochelle. Melissa Ruth and a couple more.  I can’t say what the next chapter will look like. 

But an earlier chapter looked like this. dm
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