A Life In Radio: Jay Kline

Radio veteran Jay Kline has been in the business for over 25 years now. Back in his hometown of Butler, Jay is celebrating his 10th official year as the DJ of WLER 97.7 FM-- now known as The Rock Station.

Sitting in a comfortable chair, that sinks a little low every so often (despite not being prompted), Jay Kline, 46, oversees a board of controls that operate WLER 97.7 FM-- also known as The Rock Station.

Kline is the program director, as well as the morning show host on The Rock Station. He's been in radio for over 25 years, and it's a result of chasing a lifelong passion.

"I would hear the guys on the radio back when I was growing up," Kline said. "They were larger than life. They were almost like the Wizard of Oz, standing behind the curtain, and no one could see them."



Kline is now in the same position as some of his idols growing up. But, a life in radio is never one of guaranteed safety. He's bounced around from market to market, like most people do in radio. He spent time in Pittsburgh on the number one rated station, 102.5 WDVE, to time on first-ever job in local AM radio in Butler, WISR 680 AM.



"When you get a chance to be on major radio stations, it's a lifelong dream come true," Kline said.

 

Kline ended up in Pittsburgh, after his station in Beaver Falls was bought out by a major corporation. While at 106.7 The Force, their ratings had begun to take away from Pittsburgh's number one station, WDVE. The corporation that owned DVE, bought out The Force and changed formats immediately. With the change, Kline became the first official DJ on what was the brand new station, The X.

Kline had that chance from 1995-1996, working part-time in the Pittsburgh market. He also spent time at B94 (93.7 FM) and KISS FM (96.1). However, Kline knew a stable job was a good job, and that's what he found back in his hometown of Butler.



"I was working part-time for stations in Youngstown and in Butler," Kline said. "My bosses in Butler gave me an opportunity to be in control and program 97.7 FM, which was alluring to me. It was also a full-time job and more money, which was a big factor because I ultimately had to pay the bills."

Up in the morning at 4:30 a.m. Jay jokes working the morning
show shift takes about 10 years off your life.

For Kline, working in the local market allowed him to get to the roots of what he believes radio is about.

Inside the production studio, Jay voices a commercial.

Work in local radio requires you to be a jack-of-all-trades, Kline said.

"It brought me back to the days of playing records in my house growing up," Kline said. "It's not that I could play whatever I wanted to, but I was in control of what was being played. There was no corporate play list. I was going to be in charge of the plane, and I still am."

He, along with another DJ at the now three stationed owned Butler Media Group, Bob Cupp, made the transition of taking 97.7 FM from All Hitz, which was adult contemporary, to The Rock Station, which is just what the name says it is, a rock station.

Through all these changes though, it's been Kline's passion for radio that continues to drive him each and every day.

In addition to hosting the morning show, Jay also hosts the 

all request hour at noon. "You can't be one-dimensional in 

local radio," Kline said.

"I don't want to say it's not hard work, because I put a lot of time and energy into what I do," Kline said. "But it's a different kind of work. I love what I do, and that makes things a lot easier."

Working in radio, also comes with a number of other advantages, Kline said.

"I'm getting paid to do what I love," Kline said. "The perks are great too. The concerts, the people you get to meet, as well as the free food."

The move from big market to small market, and vice-versa, is something that a lot of radio personalities face. Another radio host for the Butler Media Group, Tracey Morgan, worked for KDKA-AM in Pittsburgh before arriving back in her hometown of Butler.

"It's a give and take," Morgan said. "It's definitely more family-friendly working in the small market."

"Most of the time, schedules aren't flexible in big markets, especially during sweeps week," Morgan said. "But, big markets also are hugely beneficial because they are constantly updating technology, so you're always getting the newest equipment."


Ultimately, Kline just loves that his job is his passion.

"My lifelong dream, ever since I was a kid, was to be on the radio," Kline said. "I never thought it was possible. Turns out it was."

Web Biography Proposal: Jay Kline

I would like to do a profile on Jay Kline, a radio DJ for WLER 97.7 FM. He’s been the host of the morning show for the last 10 years or so, but has had an extensive career in radio, including stops in Pittsburgh, Youngstown, and Cleveland.

He’s interesting to talk to, and has seen quite a bit through his years in radio. He’s seen a move from reel-to-reel and “splice editing,” to now everything being run by computers. He’s also the program director for the station and oversaw a change from an adult-contemporary format to a rock format. Jay can provide a nice story of what life is like in the radio business and how he came to this point.

He can also tell the difference in jobs throughout radio—big market compared to small market. 

I think the videos would be compelling and a career biopic could tell an interesting story in a multi-media platform.

Why Don't Women Run for Political Office?

Dr. Kristin Kanthak came to Slippery Rock University to present her study on Why Women Don't Run for Political Office.

In front of a packed house in Spotts, Dr. Kanthak talked about some of her reasons she found in her study that showed why women don't run for political office. Her main takeaway was that women have higher standards in running for office. Dr. Kanthak said women expect themselves to either be the best or great at that position, while men think they can be pretty good and run.

Why Don't Women Run for Political Office

On November 23 there is an event called Why Don't Women Run for Political Office?

It's part of the political science speaker series and is being coordinated by Dr. Heather Rice. I think this is relevant to not only students at Slippery Rock because it is being conducted on campus-- but I also think it's an issue facing our generations.

Geena Davis stars in ABC's Commander 

in Chief as President Mackenzie Allen. 

The show (2005-2006) lasted  one season.

User reviewer Wendy A. on Metacritic's

website said, "It was one of the better show's

to watch."

There could be some interesting facts proposed by different sets of speakers throughout the evening, which would make for some nice direct quotes to use for the video. Also, the timing of this event is extremely prevelant considering the impact of the election has had on the media cycle so far.

It may not be earth-shattering news, but I do think it would make for a good video, especially if there are a variety of speakers. Also, there could be some interesting links to post throughout the video. Links to news, profiles on different women who've run for office, perhaps articles that have additional viewpoints on the subject at hand.

Kwik Fill Construction

SLIPPERY ROCK, PA (8:00 a.m.)-- Frequenters of the Kwik Fill gas station in downtown Slippery Rock were somewhat surprised to drive by the convenient store this morning to see caution tape and orange barrels surrounding the station.

The Kwik Fill gas station in downtown Slippery Rock is undergoing to repairs.

According to Kyle Crawford, a construction worker on the site, the station is undergoing beautification repairs and there is nothing wrong structurally with the station.

"We're just putting in new main-way risers and re-doing the concrete to make it more safe and make it look better," Crawford said.

He did not give an exact re-opening date for the Kwik Fill, but didn't expect it to be closed that long. Crawford said he expected the site to be closed though at least through today.

The sounds of jack-hammering can be heard consistently throughout downtown Slippery Rock. The process has some residents slightly upset, including frequenters of Kwik Fill. Resident Martin Zanicky, who was unaware of the changes on his way to Kwik Fill this morning, was surprised to see the convenient store closed.

Zanicky said the sounds weren't that irritating because he's become used to hearing pop-up noises in Slippery Rock all the time, but said he was more upset at the fact he couldn't go to the Kwik Fill for the shorter lines and what he said to be cheaper prices.

"It's not the end of the world that there's construction there, but it's kind of an inconvenience to have to go to Sheetz," Zanicky said.



The construction is having no effect on traffic in the area, in one of the busier sections of Slippery Rock. The intersection of Main Street and Franklin Street is one of the most traveled areas in the downtown area.

Side view of the construction at Kwik Fill

The Kwik Fill is one of three gas stations in the Franklin and Main intersection. The Marathon station sits catercorner to the Kwik Fill and Sheetz is directly across from it. The Sheetz moved there two years ago from its previous location on the corner of  Main Street and Cooper Street.

Crawford (left) looks on as the main-ways are jack-hammered around. 

There was no final word on when the Kwik Fill construction would be complete, but it appears to be an ongoing project that has no definitive end date. As mentioned above, there are still plenty of options for filling up with gas in the Slippery Rock area with two more gas stations directly around the Kwik Fill.

As mentioned above, traffic flow is not currently being effected by the construction.

The Impact of Ethan Linnon

Two weeks ago on Friday, October 16 Butler High School senior Ethan Linnon died in a car accident. His death was felt by virtually everyone in the Butler community. This past Friday, October 23 Butler  football hosted Fox Chapel for their final home game of the season. The winless Golden Tornado were looking for their first win of the season. With a packed crowd and Ethan's parents on the field for the coin toss, it was quite the emotional night.

Butler ultimately won 30-22 and it turned into one of the more wonderful scenes I've ever seen at a sporting event.

Upgrades at Slippery Rock's Athletic Facilities

Slippery Rock has their fair share of athletic facilities. From Mihalik-Thompson Stadium to Jack Critchfield Park, there are homes for every major sports. But, because structure don't live forever, there have been some repairs over the last few years. 

Are You Experienced?

As much as we enjoy being in class and going to college, I was always told real life experiences are invaluable. I've had the privilege over the past few years to work in radio at the local level with the Butler Media Group.

However, working at local radio isn't a Monday through Friday 9-5 job. The hours are always bizarre and days can be somewhat taxing. Also, another piece of advice that I got from Pirates broadcaster was to "never say no," because you never know where that job may possibly lead to.

So, on Saturday, I was asked to be in three different places, working from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at a series of different events.

American Heart Association Walk in Cranberry Twp.

2015 American Heart Association Walk in Cranberry Township

Deb Harry, Vice President of Pittsburgh Chapter of American Heart Association

Mike Robic III, 3rd grader from St. Killian's Catholic School

Seneca Valley Cheerleaders at the walk

North Country Wins Best Can Design

Known for their creative beers and different dishes, North Country Brewing now has won a recognition for artistic reasons.

Competing against a field that included four other cans of beers including Sam Adams and Magic Hat, North Country Brewing's Buck Snort Stout was named the best can design in the United States by Brewery Collectable Club of America.

Owner Bob McCafferty raises a glass of Buck Snort Stout.

Along with the Buck Snort Stout, there are multiple other beers
to be sent out to numerous distributors in Ohio, West Virginia, and Florida

 The BCCA has its headquarters in Mizzouri and has an annual poll in which its members vote on the best can design on an online poll.

Owner of North Country Brewing, Bob McCafferty said this win was a testament to his crew's work and all-around team effort.

North Country Brewing has been on the corner of Main Street in Slippery Rock since Februrary 2005.




The photos shown, though, were not taken at the restaurant, but rather the North Country Cannery.

McCafferty purchased this space two years ago, in October 2013 as a way to bring the beer to the people.

"With all the alumns of Slippery Rock scattered everywhere, people want to drink the beer they partied with in college," McCafferty said.

North Country was also in the process of brewing their annual Late Night Pumpkin Ale during my trip.

     

The kettles house over 10 different brews of beer, including
the Buck Snort, as well as the timely Late Night Pumpkin Ale

McCafferty said their pumpkin beer its a little different than their competitors because they use the actual meat from the pumpkin.

"You could make a pie out of this stuff," McCafferty said.

The crew settled in to celebrate the win for North Country and of course, have a beer.

The fermenter and the whirlpool are essential parts to the brewing process

The crew gathers to celebrate the win for the Buck Snort Stout.
Behind them sits thousands of empty cans, getting ready to be poured.

McCafferty (far right) brings over a block of cheese and kielbasa
for the crew to have while enjoying a celebratory Buck Snort Stout.

Is College Worth It?

Get a college education. Get a good job. Make good money. Retire. That's been the formula high school students have been told for years. But today, with soaring educational costs- just not tuition but everything else- you know, like food to live off, students are wondering, "Is my education worth it?"

I'm not here to offer my opinion on the subject- but here to help you form your own.

Gallup says, yes college is worth it, but only for those who want to be there.

Poll from Gallup's website using their "Big 6" elements of a
successful college experience.

The folks at The Economist say success after college depends on what degree you get and where you go to school.

You've heard this one before...Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs. All college dropouts. But, this piece by Forbes takes a very in-depth look at college's return of investment (ROI).

President Obama said a college degree is the "surest ticket to the middle class." The Washington Post finds a study that they may not be so true. (They suggest you finish on time,)

There's a tremendously over-dramatic trailer for a book called "Is College Worth It?" by William J. Bennett. You can order the book there as well.

Morley Safer shows both sides of the argument in this 60 minutes piece. (The subject of the 60 minutes piece, Peter Thiel, is worth an estimated $3.3 billion.)

In a country where student debt is over trillion dollars, it is certainly an argument worth having.

Breaking Bread with Gandhi

In the brief 21 years of my life, I'll say I've seen quite a bit. Another subjective inspector would probably claim it to be normal, but that's why I'm the author of this post and they are not. You can take my stories at face-value or you could challenge my thinking and beliefs. (Which would probably suit you better.) 

Myself with the Obama Administration at Camp David 2010.

I came to the Slippery Rock via the Mayflower looking to get out under the rule of the dictating mayor of Renfrew, Pennsylvania- George King IV. After establishing religious freedom for myself I enrolled as a Communication B.A. student looking to tell the world my story. Instead, I got interested in telling other people's stories and I switched over to become a journalism major. I could lie and say this New-Media Journalism class has been on my bucket list, since the 9th grade, but this is a part of the requirement that will allow future employers to see the piece of paper that qualifies me as employable. 

As I said I've seen quite a bit. I've advised the past three Presidential administrations on foreign affairs at Camp David. I broke bread with Gandhi before he became the leader of the Indian Independence movement. We yelled over who should pay the bill...he calmed down afterwards. I ghost wrote Stairway to Heaven and sat in on the Sgt. Pepper sessions. I introduced John to Yoko and Paul to Linda. I told the Trailblazers to take Sam Bowie over Michael Jordan (hey, I've got a few things wrong too.)

George Bush and myself discussing foreign policy at
Camp David in 2006.

My professional background is something though of which I'm very proud. (This is actually real) I've had the privilege to be an on-air radio broadcaster for the local radio stations in Butler, PA (WISR, WBUT, and WLER). I've learn to be versatile, because my boss required it, so I've produced Penguins games and hosted the morning shows. I've done interviews with the Elks Club and worked an election night. I've hosted a sports talk show and I've cooked hot dogs in the parking lot. There's a lot to do in local radio. I was quite busy this summer, but it was a whole lot of fun. Also included in my work history...guest relations worker for the Pittsburgh Pirates, a waiter for three days, and a freelance landscaper. 

By clicking on the underlined words, you'll be linked to some serious business and websites.

If you're interested in SRU, here's their homepage.

You can find me on Twitter.

I just recently joined Facebook (I understand that quote is from 2006).

Me, Bill Clinton, and Yasser Arafat at Camp David July 2000.

I'm quite a fan of the old media, in fact such a big fan I've read newspapers. My favorite is the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. Not because I'm a fan of "Conservative Views. Objective News." but rather for their coverage of local sports. In fact, I believe their coverage of the Pittsburgh Pirates is unrivaled in the city. Rob Biertempfel and Travis Sawchick, the beat writers, do a tremendous job. 

As for the new-media, I'm a frequent reader of the AV Club. I'm not a pop-culture freak. Actually I'm not even a pop culture Sunday observer. But, they cover TV, Music and Movies better than anyone else. The writing is extremely creative and the stories even more intriguing. 

I'm looking forward to another semester at SRU. I plan on graduating in May 2016. I also plan on running more, eating less, and sustaining a healthy and cherub-like demeanor. Such are the best laid plans of mice and men. 

"Seriousness is a refugee for the shallow." -Oscar Wilde