Gary LaPierre, star of WBZ and New England radio, announces retirement...

"After more than 4 decades at WBZ NEWSRADIO 1030, Gary LaPierre on Wednesday announced his retirement. He explained the time is right. "I still love what I'm doing but there comes a point in your life when you say, 'Ok you've done that long enough'..I'd like to try some other things." Gary has not decided on his future plans. He will continue to anchor the WBZ Morning News until the end of the year.

Gary began his broadcasting career in 1964, when he reported on The Beatles first visit to Boston. He has covered a number of presidential campaigns and conventions. Gary was also the lead anchor for WBZ's continuous coverage of the 911 attacks."

I enjoyed the honor and privilege of serving Gary during my time at WBZ. Of the many fine news shops I have been associated with over the years, WBZ remains very special to me. Gary is an exceptionally gifted talent, outstanding broadcast journalist and a great gentleman. Coverage by Greg Gatlin in The Boston Herald here. 'BZ'ing you Gary!

Steve Rubel, the prince of PR, guests on an audio program with Jack Trout, the subject is word of mouth. 19 minutes, good overview on the state of the art, via mp3 here. Bravo to Jack, Errol Smith, Rick Murray and Steve for a job well done.

From Billboard Radio Monitor...

ABC Radio news/talk KGO San Francisco has named Paul Hosley news director. He most recently was asssociate director news and programming at crosstown CBS Radio news KCBS-AM and replaces Greg Tantum who left earlier this year to program Bonneville news/talk WTWP-AM & FM Washington, D.C.

Congrats to Paul - another smart hire award to Jack!