- Become a Member
- Join Now
- Sustaining Members
- Member Benefits
- Match Your Contribution
- FAQ
- Existing Members
- Member Discounts
- Member Benefits
- Change of Address
- Tax Information
Love Storm
Posted at 1:54 PM on December 11, 2008
by Dale Connelly
(84 Comments)
Our final Morning Show broadcast was an immense hug and a truly beautiful thing thanks to the waves of faithful listeners who flowed to and through the Fitzgerald Theater and St. Paul's Central Presbyterian Church. The size of the crowd went well beyond our expectations (I wagered 1500) and their warmth was off the charts. If you haven't seen the slide show yet, take a look. As a lifelong radio guy, I am naturally timid at the thought of facing a live audience, but this group was as comfort-inducing as any collection of 2000 souls can be. What's the opposite of an unruly mob? A ruly mob, I guess. That's what we had.
All the heartfelt words of praise for our Morning Show were oh so welcome, but after awhile I did begin to feel a bit guilty. Let's face it, everybody works hard and the stress of day-to-day living takes a toll. Who wouldn't get a boost from having a gaggle of admiring people asking for your autograph? I confess I enjoyed it tremendously, but I recognize that most people deserve a kind word and a pat on the back for the good things they do every day, and do they get it? You know the answer. Sorry Jim Ed and I hogged the love storm, but what could we do? It blew down the doors.
The Morning Show is done. It was a long-running and sometimes confounding radio gymnastics routine with plenty of twists and flourishes and it looked like we would come crashing down a couple of times, but our spotters were there for us and gravity gave us some lucky breaks, and the dismount was incredible.
Now it's time for the next event.
Radio Heartland is already up and running. On the first installment of my Jim Ed-less Morning Show, I'll visit with Ann Reed in the studio and bring back the five (FIVE!) songs that were done in our honor at the last broadcast, including Peter Ostroushko's cruelly manipulative version of "You Are My Sunshine".
We start at 6am Friday!
Comments (84)
Congratulations on a truly wonderful show this morning - you guys did a spectacular job, as did all the guests. Thrilled to see the Ostroushko "Sunshine" will live on outside the walls of the Fitz. And I am totally cribbing the phrase "love storm".
In the immortal words of Bugs Bunny - bon voyag-ee!
Well done guys.
Dale and Jim Ed, thanks for 25 great years of spending the morning together as you helped create musical benchmarks for us to chart the years as our kids grew, our lives changed, and our hearts and souls responded to your generosity with each new day. Peace. Jim
God can you make me any more sadder? I mean Pete just had to pull out Sunshine just to make us all go into long term therapy!
Cruelly manipulative is right. What kind of radio program is designed to have people weeping, sobbing, make-up running and clothing disheveled.....all before 9:00 a.m.? I mean really....what kind of a way to start a day is that?
I just hope we're in for a lot more of the same!!!!
Just think...24 hours a day of the morning show. Can I take that much fun in my life?
Thanks Dale and Jim Ed (and the remarkable people who have helped behind the scenes) for everything and congratulations on this new venture. Now if I could just figure out where to get my HD radio!
Dale,
You guys made morning something more than tolerable--and that's saying a lot for me, especially since quitting coffee. I have to admit, I'm real bummed the party is over, but you guys went out with a bang. Thanks for all the new music you turned me onto. I suspect a good third of my music collection is artists I first heard on your show and madly scribbled down names and song titles on scraps of paper fished off the car floor so I could order them myself. It's a great gift you gave, so don't be surprised that so many people are in mourning. I still wish there was a way to keep you on the air. Hopefully this new internet version will sit with me way better than decaf.
Cheers to you both and thanks for the music and laughs through the years.
Radio Heartland is already off to a great start! I'm listening right now to "The Last Days of Pompeii", one of many songs I heard and loved on The Morning Show. This afternoon I've heard dozens of songs I haven't heard for years and always enjoy hearing.
I've already commented here, or possibly on another MPR blog, that I'll miss The Morning Show terribly. But this next step will be a comfort and will have its own advantages. I *love* the fact that the music is to go round the clock! I do hope some of the old studio sessions and skits will be replayed. I look forward to hearing what Dale will do with his live time in the morning.
Thanks for a terrific ride, Dale and Jim Ed. I'll miss Jim Ed, but I look forward to the new show. I hope Jim Ed's retirement is great fun, and that at last he'll be able to stay up past 7 p.m. in the summer light!
To be in attendence at the final edition of The Morning Program will be one of the highlights of my life. It made the drive down from Alexandria and a night in a hotel all worth the effort.
So many great artists, great songs and touching testimonials to the 25 years you have been a part of my morning. Amidst all the doom and gloom in the news this days, it was so nice to shed a tear of happiness for all the great memories. And some tears of sadness, too, I admit.
I actually became a fan back during Garrisons early days. Help Me Rhonda became a favorite request during finals week in college. The show has only improved with age.
I wish you both the best with your coming ventures. Would love to hear an occasional skit with Jim Ed from retirement. (Today's skits were outstanding)
My six-year-old daughter and I stood in line for an hour this morning to get into the Fitz. We were seated just as Peter Mayer came on to sing “Everything is Holy Now”. I’ve been weeping off and on ever since.
But on the other hand, some levity: as my daughter began putting your faces together with your voices, she said: “But their voices sound so young!”
Ah, from the mouths of babes!
What a wonderful show this morning! We arrived early, and my DH and I were able to locate our DS, who drove in from another city, in the crowd. We found three seats together - happy day! Throughout the show we received updates regarding the number of people who were at the church eating a pancake breakfast and listening to the show (600 or so), and how many people were standing outside the theater (180 or so) hoping to get a seat inside the Fitz as members of the audience took their leave. Quite amazing!
I wondered this morning, and I wonder again, how many people in the theater, at the church and standing outside in the cold, had asked Dale and Jim Ed to play a song for them, or someone they knew, over the last 25 years? I think those requests, and the creative ways the Morning Show hosts filled them, are part of the reason that many have felt so connected to the Morning Show. You made us feel welcome, Dale and Jim Ed! You guys were interactive before the phrase was coined! Thank you!
Dear Dale (and MPR IT Guys),
Many of us outside Minnesota listen(ed) to The Morning Show, The Current and Classical via a link through iTunes Radio. It would be incredibly helpful if you could please set up a similar link for Radio Heartland so that we can access it as easily as we have been doing with the other channels. Many thanks.
Chris
Is there any way the entire last show, or at least the music, could be put onto CDs and sold to the adoring public? Or a DVD so we can watch theh whole thing? (I noticed cameras filming the show) Taken just as a musical event, that was a concert I would have easily paid $200 a ticket to hear. The performances by every single musician were awe-inspiring. And the reason? Each performer was expressing their love and appreciation for Dale, Jim Ed and the Morning Show, and it showed! I think I teared up about 6 times. Peter Oshtruko's "You Are My Sunshine" should go into the Hall of Fame of Live Performances, (with help from the spontaneous and ethereal backup by the audience!).
I'll remember today forever. Thanks, Dale and Jim Ed. You are the best!
I listened to the final show at home, the way I have for the past 25+ years and you gave us a great send-off. Thank you for the many wonderful years of morning music and shtick. I recently retired also and wish you the best, Jim Ed. I hope I can figure out how to use this new HD radio, Dale. Hi Mike.
I was there this morning. It feels like the end of something that matters.
Garrison Keillor and Laura Ingalls Wilder are why I came to MN, but The Morning Show is why I stayed.
I have truly expanded my playlist because of this show, and I think I'm better for it.
Thanks for the tunes and for the laughs. I suppose I'll stick around.
All my best.
My poor powers of description couldn't match those above. It was truly a great show.
One thing I noticed, though. The preliminary schedule mentions an appearance by Bart the Bear. Was the script actually written for this? If so, can we see it? I'd hate to leave Bart hanging like that.
I've listened since 1983 when Dale replaced Garrison and wondered if the duo would jive and you did.
I sent in requests for songs for my nieces on their annual "auntie/niece" week together, went to the State Fair the first Friday to see th show live, attended the first live radio show in 1993 when Morning Program pillows and cups of coffee were handed out. It was fantastic to "be part" of your show - each day - each event - all 25 years.
Today's finale - Dale, Jim Ed, your crew, the script, the choice of musicians, the songs, especially Peter's choice of "My Sunshine"...Brilliant.
I've been listening to the Morning Show only since 2001, and it's been a balm to my soul.
Thank you for your fearless kookiness, humanity, wit, and musical generosity.
Thank you, too, for continuing in a new channel and not abandoning your listeners!
Sublime. Like many moments over the last twenty-five (plus 8-10 with Mr. Keillor) years. Thanks for all you've done for the great musicians who defy category and those of us who appreciate them. The farewell show will be remembered forever.
Thank you and best wishes.
Thank you for the gifts of years of your show and the extravagance that was today's grand finale. We thoroughly enjoyed it even though we were in the Central Presbyterian sanctuary instead of the Fitzgerald.
(I too was sorry that Bart the Bear got skipped -- for lack of time, I presume.)
Rynda, Julia & Cate Carlis
Oh the joy I have realized over the years showering, shaving and drinking coffee while enjoying the balm of your early morning banter and the sweetness of your play selections. The 7am "Prairie Sun" song universally kicked off my week properly, and made me smile to think how often my daughter Ali and I would sing along. I just invested in a digital radio so I can follow Dale to Heartland. Phil Riveness
It was a beautiful send-off. Thank you, both, for two decades of joy and whimsy.
I'm curious, though, will you post the "12 most requested songs" that you played at 5am? I only caught Waltzing with Bears and (the beloved) Little Potato. I'm dying to know if I guessed the other 10 correctly.
One down side to this morning - it took us 45 minutes to get out of the parking ramp we were in. Not sure why - was it the ramp design? A thousand cars trying to leave from one structure at the same time? Too difficult to merge into the street traffic from the ramp? It was pretty frustrating. Or, maybe I am just spoiled and should realize that this is going to happen every 25 years or so?
Thanks, everyone for the kind words.
Good eye, Tim, on Bart the Bear. We did cut him to save time, which was especially painful for our producer Mike, who counts Bart as his favorite Morning Show character. I'll see if we can post the script later today, though it's not the same without Jim Ed's loopy reading.
And Cathy, the 12 songs we played weren't technically the "most requested" because we didn't count how many times we played anything. However, Jim Ed, Mike and I agreed that these are these (baker's) dozen songs most clearly represent what the Morning Show was about:
1) Little Potato - Metamora
2) Waltzing With Bears – Robbie Clement
3) Old Love – Neal and Leandra
4) Feet of a Dancer – Maura O’Connell
5) Cut the Cake – John McCutcheon
6) Under The Quarter Moon – Carla Sciacky
7) Dear Boss (Bricks) -Robbie O’Connell and the Clancy Brothers
8) Child of Mine – Carole King
9) Easter Island Head – Throat Culture
10) I Have You – Connie Kaldor
11) Turning Toward the Morning – Bok, Trickett, Muir
12) Give Yourself to Love – Kate Wolf
13) Calle del Sol - Wood of My Land Orchestra
So happy to hear your voice this morning and the music..the music...
Ahhh, the balm continues this morning. This WILL be a success; it can't be anything else. And, thank you to Amy Klobuchar and MPR's faithful listeners for bringing us the hope and promise that HD programming will someday be expanded to MPR's network of Greater Minnesota stations.
Ahhh, the balm continues this morning. This WILL be a success; it can't be anything else. And, thank you to Amy Klobuchar and MPR's faithful listeners for bringing us the hope and promise that HD programming will someday be expanded to MPR's network of Greater Minnesota stations.
It's still dark this morning but I'm certain the sun will come up; yesterday I wasn't sure, but after going through all seven stages of grief over the course of three hours (the sniffles and whimpers you may have heard during the quiet moments... yeah, that was me). BUT. My mom, who drove from South Dakota, and I are having our coffee and reading the Strib and listening to Dale, and I think we're all going to be okay. Thanks guys. We love you.
Dale,
Thank you for the great post on your blog about the finale. Also, I'm listening to Radio Heartland now of course on my computer...yet to get an HD radio.
It sounds great. Of course I miss Jim Ed. I'm feeling like a member of my family has passed away. So I imagine you feel much the same way. Your spirits sound up and I hope you do keep up your spirits.
One last thing, I can not manage to find a link that lists your email address or any such link for Radio Heartland.
We are here. We love you. Please keep going.
-Josh & Geisa, St. Paul
Got a great parking place yesterday morning across from the Fitz. Didn't get into the theater. Enjoyed the show from the church (great coffee!) When the video feed started, we noticed the sound was consistently 6 seconds ahead of the grainy video, but we all loved it.
I decided to listen to the last few minutes of the show in the car, where I have usually been for the best show on earth. What a reward to have a last song from Greg Brown, and it's one I've never heard. I do, however, know what PF Flyers are, having coveted them as a child.
I lucked out with no parking ticket thanks to feeding the meter at 8.
Thanks and ever thanks. Looking forward to lots more tunes and fun. When you build a community like this one, we're not going to wander off and go bowling (what's open at 6 AM?)! Best to you from Jane
You helped me raise my kids to be music-tolerant - we love all kinds because of you. Now we are in a new stage of our lives and listening, facing chaotic change. I trust the new format will make its way into my car via podcasting and fancy equipment. Making it work, whatever it takes.
What a relief to hear your voice Dale and the kind of quirky, eclectic tunes I've grown to count on to wake me with a smile each week day morning! This little carrot is the only thing that has kept me from becoming overly morose in the preceding weeks (prior to learning of Radio Heartland my husband would hear shouts of "You won't hear cool songs like THIS on the radio after the end of the Morning Show!" and similar rants each morning). Thank you. By the way - I hope you're not feeling too lonely this morning all by yourself Dale. It must be odd to be solo after so many years with a partner like Jim Ed. Any plans to get a buddy for this program?
Thanks much for the past. But I would mostly like to post about the future.
Radio Heartland is breaking new ground. The one thing I would suggest is adding some Spoken Word programming. I really miss Christine Sweet reads. I miss chapter a day, from when I lived in Madison. The Lincoln Center story program was great.
I know it is retro, or the way public radio used to be.
Doug
Dale,
Thank you for yesterday's wonderful show! We were in the church for its entirety - somehow the added beauty of the sanctuary added to its reverence.
And, now, here you are again! Maybe not in our kitchen, but our spare 'computer' room, full volume to reach the kitchen. The dogs are wondering what all the racket is (a Bowser Bed is needed to soothe....!) An HD radio is a must.
Keep on keeping on...! After yesterday's love fest, I think we'd follow you just about anywhere.
Cathy & Bart, Woodville, WI
I only listened to the show yesterday - but cried along with everyone else. The Morning Show carried me through law school and many life experiences and introduced me to the songs we played at our wedding a few years ago. I thought I would be lost without it. But tuning in to the Heartland this a.m. gave me new hope. The play list from midnight on - fantastic. Having this level of quality programming available 24/7 is so exciting! We miss Jim Ed already and hope he comes back for visits, skits, special days. But, Dale, don't get too lonely and don't lose heart. There are lots of potential visitors and guest co-hosts out here and, frankly, what can we do to help? (Besides contribute and listen, of course, which are givens!)
I remember one pledge drive morning, when Jim Ed's mom's name came across your notes as a contributor, and Dale said, "Oh, Mrs. Poole." That was cute. I'm hearing you over the Internet this morn, but will need to looking into an HD radio. Thanks for such a fun ride. I look forward to the new one, too.
I believe I deserve the MPR Medal of Valor for being (arguably) the FIRST person to relinquish their seat yesterday morning, thereby making way for one of the eager would-be listeners standing in the cold. I had to leave (sigh) at 6:30 a.m. to catch a plane.
Ironically, the fact that, this morning, I'm in a hotel in Indianapolis means that I'm actually able to hear the first morning of Dale's solo gig. (Still haven't figured out how to make listening happen back in Minnesota.)
Thank you, congratulations, good road to each of you.
And I'll be waiting for that medal, the one I get for valiantly giving over my seat to another loving, loyal, adoring fan. Nothing showy, mind you; just something tasteful that would go well with black.
Our alarm went off this morning to the classical MPR station...same one that we used to hear The Morning Show on. I quickly ran to the computer room, turned on the computer, impatiently waited the 5 min. or so while it warmed up and went through it's morning stretches. Finally, I arrived at the Radio Heartland page. I was so comforted to hear that Dale was really there! Whew!
Hopefully, the 'powers that be' may decide to let Radio Heartland back on the Classical Station down here in SW MN. Either that, or my morning work-out will consist of jumping around in the computer room while the machine boots up.
Thanks to everyone for a Fabulous show yesterday! If you make a CD of the show, it will sell!!
Shee--eet !
How to make this transition?
I don't have an HD radio yet, so I resorted to transplanting my laptop from the table in the dining room to the bedroom, hoping to continue my routine of waking up to familiar voices and tunes. Hmm..., no flat surface with space enough to put laptop in bedroom (note to self: clean up this mess!).
Guess I will just have to make room on the bed for the device which will keep me connected to Dale Connelly and the music. Which reminds me of a song I heard on the Late Great Morning Show called, I think, "Old Blue", where the person who owns the dog ends up sharing his sleeping space with his faithful pet. Can one call a laptop a faithful pet?
At any rate, the morning started in a happily, with 'sunshine' coming straight out of the laptop and brightening the start of the day. Transition to Radio Heartland is underway : )
Another vote for a CD of the final performance that your adoring fans could buy! So glad to have you with us this morning. The Morning Show is the reason I became a MPR member. I am now a sustaining member so count that as a contribution meant for Radio Heartland.
They haven't figured out how to make a computer into a clock radio yet as far as I can tell, and I know just what the folks having the spare computer room computer volume turned up high are experiencing. But waking to a normal alarm in time to turn on the computer for a six am show is a tiny, tiny price to pay to hear your voice, Dale, and all this fabulous music. And, to be able to hear this incredible mix in the evenings as well -- pure bliss.
There were 1500 people with you, Jim Ed and Mike in person yesterday, and there also were many, many of us with you in spirit -- listening to said clock radio while tucked under down comforters before the heat came on, or making lunches and listening with family, or while sipping a morning cup of cocoa. We truly are a community -- to use a weaver's analogy -- with a strong, secure warp formed through your voice, personality, and musical selections, and a weft of cross-connections through our requests and dedications. I hope it's easily to envision us all out here with you in your new, more singular state in the studio. We ARE here, and can't wait to see how Heartland Radio grows.
Oh what a beautiful morning... Dale's voice sounding from the laptop. I was at the Fitzgerald yesterday and loved everything about the final broadcast, except maybe your boss.
Dale,
Very glad to hear your voice and musical selections this morning.
Yesterday my son Hoang, and I rode with my spouse in the semi overnight from Ada (50 mi NE of Fargo) to the Cities, so that he could drop us off in front of the Fitz at 4:30 am--in hopes of gaining a seat. Sweet victory, we did.
After the show I went up to the stage and was able to show you my (late) daughter's "Morning Show music workbook" in which I directed her to note who were the announcers and guests, the names of the songs, the artists and her comments--all of this while going about her morning rituals. This was the beginning to her homeschooling days.
I also handed you a couple of cherished pens that (I forgot to tell you) were made by her. She would've been honored for you guys to have them.
Hoang was thrilled to be there, seeing the artists, the reverant crowd, and to meet you--and considered the risk of 'having to take semester-tests' due to missing school to have been worth it.
I mention all of this to let you know how highly we valued your presence in our lives.
As always, thanks,
Sheila Capistran, David Murphy, Hoang
{& the late Laural}
The morning Show was such a important and vital part of my years here in MN that I will always associate my MPR membership with true civic responsibility. Great to be listening to Dale streaming over itunes in my office this morning! Love the play list!
Yesterday I cried along with the world. Not just my former fellow Minnesotans, or people around the country, but folks from around the world. How stunning, but not really surprising, and love well deserved.
Radio Heartland is a heart-warming treasure so far. Welcome to your new home, my friend.
Another loyal listener glad to see the flame kept burning.
Dear Dale and Mike (and Jim Ed),
I didn't cry yesterday during the show or at the end of the show, but these comments and listening the day after, I do have tears.
I have been an absolutely faithful listener since WSCD went on the air in 1975 and discovering Garrison and Jim Ed, mourning it during the in between time before Dale and Jim Ed started it up again.
I made a list of all my favorites and you played almost all of them the last month or so A couple I didn't hear: Cold Missouri Water by James Kill I can't spell it, you know who I mean) and Tall Buildings by John Hartford. (Will you play it again on my anniversary in June? I'm still working in a tall building).
But (I know, this is getting long) I would add to your list of oft played tunes "Lake Baikal" which I thank you for playing (at least) four times this past couple weeks. Clearly several people love it as much as I do.
Enough. Just thanks. again. and I'm listening!
Cynthia in Duluth
Good Morning Dale!
Thanks for sticking around!! Wouldn't it be cool to have a "guest host" aspect to the new program? My very favorite was Bob from Redhouse, sadly he would be a real challenge to book! Lot's of good people are still with us though, how about starting with Dan Rowles, or any of our favorite local musicians...............
Kathy
Josh, we're working on setting up a special mailbox for Radio Heartland, and a place to send requests.
Thanks for the suggestion - it's something we overlooked in the rush to end the Morning Show and start Radio Heartland.
For now, you can send messages directly to my personal mailbox - dconnelly@mpr.org.
And to Cathy & Bart in Woodville, WI, thanks for listening and wanting to stay connected. I'm not sure the HD radio signal will reach Woodville from our tower in Shoreview, MN. Are you able to hear the news channel at 91.1 FM? If so, the HD signal MIGHT reach you, although it covers less ground than its larger parent. If you get an HD radio to try it out, keep the receipt!
I read all the earlier comments and we can only agree that the end of your show was like a death in the family. My wife, daughter of 32 and I were overjoyed to get in to the Fitz to experience this wonderful tribute ("love storm" is very apt) to you guys and the Morning Show team that has made not just morning radio a joy but you added so many artists' music to our lives and cd collection. Your support of so many talented artists has enriched careers and lives far and wide. We've raised 3 girls listening to MPR since GK started the program, as hundreds of other families have. If there is a radio heaven, you are it- and commercial radio is hell.
My wife jumped up to buy a Sony HD as soon as you announced their availability. Dale, your new show sounds so full and clear and now we can fill the house with your show!
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE WONDERFUL YEARS TOGETHER. Our best wishes in the new venture!!
Peace,
Wes and Pat
Thanks for all the years of fun, laughter, tears and silliness. There were a few tears yesterday as I listened to your show, particularly Peter Ostroushko's song.
My morning routine was not the same today when I woke up to your replacement on the Current, however I've made my way to your web broadcast and I'm thrilled to hear Radio Heartland. I see an HD radio in our future, perhaps you should sell a Radio Heartland HD radio. After 25 years, I can't imagine mornings without your music.
Thank you thank for so many great years. I was heartbroken to hear the show was ending. I've listened off and on since I was a teen in the early 90's depending on my work schedule it was the only good thing about starting work at 7am for many years.
I was looking forward to raising the kids we will someday (hopefully soon) have to the morning show, so I hope this is as big a hit and sticks around for many years.
Looking forward to the new show, I hope it gets all the support it needs to be a success and continue the music we all love.
I love the idea of public radio but your shows the music you played on the Morning show and continue here on Radio Heartland are why I support MPR
Thanx guys!
Laura Jean
Glad to see the morning show survives
As a purely practical matter I found a Winamp plugin that will wake a computer from hibernation and start playing Radio Heartland!
http://www.winamp.com/plugins/details/27868
This should come in handy for some of those struggling with the waking up part of this transition.
Great show, we stayed home from work to listen, wish we could have been there, thanks for many memories and we look forward to years of listening to Radio Heartland, Hope we're able to get an HD radio and reception here in Greater Minnesota, thanks again for making our lives more enjoyable.
Steve & Chris, Birch Cooley Creek Farm, Morton, MN
Dear Dale,
You and Radio Heartland had me (and my family), as they say, “at hello”. Over the last month I bought six HD radios, so we were thoroughly ready for today. And you didn’t disappoint!!!
Waking up to Karen Savoca, “In the Dirt”, I had a sense that everything would be okay and…it was much better than okay! Great first show!!!
Regarding yesterday… I watched from the first row of the balcony and felt the love from above, below, behind and, of course, from the stage. I’m still very angry that Jim Ed was “pushed” into retirement and that our morning show was “pushed” onto an HD band. But we will make the most of it as you made the most of your first day on 91.1 HD-2.
You can count on our ears and dollars being there for Radio Heartland. I hope you’ll have Jim Ed on as a guest from time to time (I believe he volunteered to leave a number.) and I hope yesterday’s tremendous show (and tremendous show of support) communicated a clear message to MPR management.
There are more than a few people in this town who have an eclectic ear and care about local music!
Best wishes and much love!
Brad Beagle
Those of us who live outside the Twin Cities had some tough choices to make this morning. We tried to listen to classical music (depressing), then a local college station (ridiculous and shrill) and then finally settled on the news. Our computer is in an upstairs office, too far away to hear in our coffee-drinking, breakfast-eating, lunch-making, and newspaper-reading space. Did I hear Bill Kling say something about the possibility of providing HD signals to outstate listeners? I'd buy an HD radio in a heartbeat if I thought I could listen to good music again in the morning.
Thanks, Dale, for your energy and creativity and for all the work it takes to continue providing great music to thousands of listeners. We miss you Jim Ed; we hope Dale brings you back once in a while. (He has your phone number.)
I have always tried to send my kids off to school, rested, fed and happy. I worked on the first two; your show accomplished the third. Thanks for a lifetime of laughter and pure, unadulterated joy.
Mary in New Ulm
SO glad to hear Dale this morning. A couple of thoughts and questions going forward: will you still be taking requests?? :) And I recall some "spots" over the years that could be adapted and done by one person (Dale) perhaps, Lloyds of Monday, that Historian thing... Heck, from 'way back -- Bud's Bag o' Leaves, etc. Oh, Dale's so creative I'm sure something will show up...
Dear Dale & Jim Ed,
So good to see you yesterday! Among the many beautiful moments, I was so touched by Dan C's rag, Solace. Once I came up with the title, I just shook my head at how appropriate and brilliant it was. I'm happily listening to RH today and loving it. Do you think you might include more commentary, at least song titles, artists, reflections on this and that, etc.? Otherwise, I'll NEVER leave my computer room because I have to know what's playing!
Best wishes,
Patrice
Dear Dale and Jim Ed,
Thanks for an amazing experience yesterday at the Fitz. I haven't cried that much since my Mom died 14 years ago. Wow.
And the feeling of waking up this morning, tuning in online and hearing your voice and the impeccable mix of music, it was restorative. Today's show took me back pre-The Current. I could tell it was your music and no one elses.
I'm going to really miss Jim Ed, but I have renewed hope that life will continue to be good because of your new Radio Heartland. I love it.
I can't tell you how cold, dark, and lonely it felt to wake up this morning to no Morning Show. Thanks for 25 incredible years and the fantastic send-off yesterday (my only disappointment was that Bart the Bear failed to make a final appearance). I'm relieved you are still be with us via this new-fangled medium with your sweet spirit and passion for local artists and eclectic folk music. Best wishes on the new Radio Heartland journey, which will most likely send digital-radio stock soaring.
My almost 10-yr-old son and I had breakfast and listened to the show at Central yesterday. I've never been smiled at by so many complete strangers. What an amazing community you guys have built over the years.
Only the hope of RH could have induced me to go right out and buy an HD radio, I'm so glad I did. We started listening last night, and I felt much better than I have in weeks.
Keep up the good work. My son is seriously worried about the future of the Sherpa company, so I hope you will keep us updated.
Dale, Jim Ed, and MPR staff - you put on great final broadcast yesterday. My response was all over the scale from tears to laughter! Wonderful.
I've been a Morning Show listener since the early 1990's. The Morning Show was a major reason why I became a public radio member. I shall miss it terribly - our one hour compute to Duluth without it felt as raw as our subzero temperatures this morning.
Best of retirement to Jim Ed! I look forward to listening to Radio Heartland.
Gail
Brimson, MN
Perhaps I've missed the info on the site, but I am curious why the first hour of the new show is repeated at 8a.m. and you don't have a 3 hr show? Funding?
Yesterday was a wonderful send-off (is that an oxymoron?) and I was glad the weather was cooperative!
I couldn't wake up to Radio Heartland this morning, but the day looked less bleak once I got to the kitchen, turned on the new HD radio and heard Dale's voice. Thanks for continuing, Dale!
Amy in St Paul
Ah, radio heartland online.....i may live! loving it so far! ditto re all the folks who've run out to buy HD radio, who've cried, who are already missing jim-ed....
ideas re potential co-hosts..don't know if i'm in a minority, but i enjoy a humorous, articulate generalist for a co-host more than a musician who talks about his/her music....more interesting to have someone you can get witty with! (some musicians, while utterly wonderful as musicians, aren't the best talkers, eh?)...or maybe have a contest where listeners can win a chance to be on with you?
idea re merchandise...i was part of the at-home love storm yesterday, but would rather have CDs of a regular morning show than of the ending show---with specially crafted dialogue etc. re waking up, making it a good day etc....?
Thanks for the question Amy.
My show lasts two hours instead of three because Jim Ed and I used to do four hours together and now I get half. I did not know until now that the first and last hours were his - the middle two mine.
Seriously, this is intended to keep the work load down for me and for Mike Pengra here at the beginning while we figure out what has to be done to make Radio Heartland work well for everyone.
If, in your listening habits, you find that 8 to 9 hour repetitive and would like a third live hour in the morning, we'll put that in the idea hopper.
Frankly, I thought the same thing myself.
Dale, I'll miss the gentle chemistry of you and Jim Ed. Yours were the only on air pledge drives that I actually enjoyed. First stop after being at the church yesterday (great cranberry pancakes, btw) was to buy a HD radio. Thanks for the past. Here's to the future.
For those listeners who listen to Heartland Radio through the Internet, it is possible to broadcast the signal through your old analog FM radio by attaching a low-power FM transmitter to your computer. Details can be found at http://www.ehow.com/how_2054289_use-fm-transmitter-listen-internet.html, along with some links to manufacturers who make such products. This way, you can broadcast Radio Heartland on any FM radio in the house, just like in the old days (like yesterday!) If your FM radio is a clock radio, you can still wake up to Dale.
Waitaminnit - what baker's dozen of great songs was played at 5 a.m. and which day? I'd love to hear that particular lineup, even though I have a number of the songs from the Keepers CD's. Is there a link somewhere to hear that lineup again?
Thank goodness for Radio Heartland, and your willingness to go with the flow, Dale. Hearing your calm, intelligent, and witty banter and the eclectic mix of music coming over the computer was balm for the heartache of losing The Morning Show. I will ring in for trying out some possible co-hosts, or just having a lot of musician guests. Discovering new talent has been a highlight, and interplay is good.
We'll miss the pirate schtick, isn't that right, boys? and yes even the sports reports, Jim Ed. Some of the other characters didn't always hit the mark, but now that I know that Dale wrote them, I can't entirely blame Jim Ed...I do hope Jim Ed makes regular appearances. Let us in radioland know ahead of time so we can make a special effort to listen then, please!
I came to this state in 1975. The Morning Show has always been Minnesota Nice--the good kind--to me. Thank you so much, guys. Maybe something even better will come out of this. Your audience can make it happen. You have struck a chord for decency without stuffiness. Onward! Arrgh, isn't that right, boys?
Dear Dale,
So, did Jim Ed sleep in today??? He had sure better be checking in with us now and again.
No Bart the Bear!!??!! Get him back on before his cell phone dies!
The music this morning was amazing. The sound from my new HD radio was awesome. You had me and Squeaky (my 15+ year old cat) dancing around the kitchen at 6 in the morning. Only you, Dale, only you.
Thank you.
Thanks for the wonderful show yesterday! I loved being in the audience - especially appreciated "Everything is Holy Now" and Leandra and Neal. I missed "You are My Sunshine" while walking to my car so I could head to work. Have listened to it three times online since. **I second the idea above about putting yesterday's broadcast on a cd or purchasable download. I think a lot of people would buy it.**
I'm still frustrated that Mr. Kling didn't leave you on fm radio, but am very glad I can stream you online, as I'm doing right now at work.
Thanks again for your presence in our lives.
Cynthia Hendricks, Minneapolis
I had to content myself with listening to the last Morning Show on the radio on the way to work, and online at work, as my employer (totally unsympathetic to my plea for bereavement leave) dumped a huge project on me at the last minute that required my presence at work all morning on Thursday. However, I managed to keep my eyes open until a minute after midnight (no small feat, after having cried my eyes to sandpaper texture in the morning, thanks to peter O and Dan C and Ann R and just about everybody), so I could log onto the MPR Web site and (arguably) be the first new subscriber under the "Radio Heartland" rubric. Can't wait for the coffee mug and the bragging rights! (Incidentally, I'd love one extra hour of live broadcast myself, as don't (yet) have an HD radio for the car, and I generally walk into work about 8:00...)
I also cried through a lot of yesterday morning,and started crying again just now reading everyone's comments. So I support 'all of the above', but just wanted to add that I too still miss Christine Sweet's readings.
Thank you, thank you, thank you Dale and Jim Ed for the twenty plus years of waking me up each week day and accompanying me on my journey to work. At first, I thought the show was weird and I didn't quite get it. But something drew me in and you and Jim Ed have been my faithful companions ever since.
Yesterday, I sang along with "Waltzing with Bears." And when "Little Potato" came on, I rolled over and tried to wake up my four year-old sleeping next to me. He didn't stir, but I sang it to him anyway. As I sang, I wondered if it would be the last time I would hear it on the radio?
When I look over the top ten songs, I realize how much the morning show meant to me. Besides singing songs from the playlist to my children, we sang "Old Love" and "Give yourself To Love" at our wedding. And "Under the Quarter Moon" is my personal favorite. How did my life get so entwined with a radio show?
I can only get 90.7 in my car. So I listened to the final show from my computer at work and yes I laughed, smiled, and cried. What an amazing show you put together! I plan to listen to radio hearland at work. But this morning I woke up to what seemed like noise on the Current and immediately turned off the volume. (Its just not voice or type of music I want to wake up to and it made me crabby)
I add my vote for any solutions for broadcasting to those of us in greater Minnesota.
Like so many others, my husband and I made it to the Fitz Thursday morning for a show we will never forget. We have been forced to miss 3 other live events this year for which we bought tickets in advance. Yesterday's Morning Show send-off made up for all of those others we missed (and we didn't even have to buy tickets!). We sat in row 6 right in front of Dale & Jim Ed, and were absolutely taken with every minute. Please put out a CD and/or DVD with all the skits, musicians, GK and Mayor Coleman. It will sell. Radio Heartland today has been wonderful. Thanks to Dale, Jim Ed and all the others who have satisfied our soul with this eclectic mix of music and talent.
Whew! You're still there. A little panic and slinky feeling in my gut this morning as I adjusted to the new format, but I was able to listen online as I got ready for work as usual. Already more songs from today's playlist to add to my iPod. Bummer that we had to part during the AM commute.
Add my "yea" to those voting for a CD from the final show.
Borrowing words from Melissa Manchester, "I think we can make it, if we try."
Like many thousand others, I was baffled by the challenge of how to start my morning after the announced end of the Morning Show. This show (along with Scott Simon) is the only reason that I listen to or support MPR.
I'm another one of those who's been listening since the start, and have organized my life to get to the end of the show before having to leave most days. I'm grateful beyond words that Dale is continuing this amazing eclectic music tradition. Thank you both for introducing me to more artists than I can name. BTW, the new format sounds very comfy from thousands of miles away, even after Dale's show is over.
I've been looking all over for that "baker's dozen" worth of terrific songs, all lined up and ready for me to hear. I'd still like to know whether there's a link I missed. I suppose now I'll have to wait until next work week!
I am already a sustaining member. Nonetheless I'd like to make sure some money comes specifically for Radio Heartland. Is there a way to do that? The link for contributions seems to go to the general fund I already know. Although I cherish many shows on MPR, I'd like to know whether there's a way specifically to boost the online programming. Please let me know, either through the blog or offline.
Nancy (not now in Silver Bay), you're correct to note that the "baker's dozen" part of our broadcast isn't available online. That's an oversight we'll try to correct next week. Check back with "Trial Balloon" and I'll let you know when it's up and running.
Regarding your membership contribution and whether or not there is an option to designate it for online programming, I have sent that question up the chain of command. You are in good company - others are asking too. Thanks.
I was listening to the final show as I always have...on my headphones while at my job cleaning horse stalls and taking care of animals. I counted it as one of the perks of my job that I could listen to the entire morning show. So I was doing okay--a little choked up, but okay--until "You Are My Sunshine" came on. There I was, picking up poop in the beagle kennels and blubbering away, tears streaming down my face. The next day I put a Morning Show-type line-up on my MP3 player, but it just wasn't the same without the wry, witty commentary of Dale and Jim Ed. I'm anxiously waiting for the day when they come out with a portable HD radio and I can once again call my mornings normal.
Dale,
Please tell us the reason(s) Kling is not having Tom (Jim Ed) work part-time like he said he wanted to do when you and he were interviewed on Gary Eichten's show.
We are very relieved and appreciative that you, Dale, are continuing on.
I was at the final show and as i read comments written by everybody I am still having the feelings rise up in me, the tenderness of tears, the feelings of gratitude........as I reflect upon it I realize it was about more than endings and good memories. The Morning Show was about who we feel as a people as an identity.........at least for the people who listened to it....its about feeling our common threads our sense of belonging to each other about the holiness of everyday life, getting up going to work, the beauty in a sunrise, the pulling together in hard times as well as celebrating whatever we celebrate togther. and over course the expression of all of that thru music and humor.......ok........a little long winded here...........but those few hours thursday morning having been sticking to my ribs like peanut butter and it feels like something really important and uplifting happened there..............thanx to everybody....!
I identify with so many of these comments. The end
of how many other MPR programs would elicit this kind of
response? The Morning Show was really the soul of MPR.
Bruce B couldn't have said it better. I, too, was at the final show and to know that everyone around me in the church was there because of how much love we all have for Dale and Jim...it was simply incredible. We were this huge family come together - all of us in the audience and the musicians on stage - to share in something so tender and heartfelt. And real! We talked easily among one another, smiling, then crying, just like we were a house full of old friends. That's magic. Maybe Tinkerbell really was there, eh? Now, thanks to Dale and RH, the magic will continue and, who knows, maybe one happy day we'll hear Jim Ed's wonderful voice again too.
Dale, thanks for the proto-responses. I'll stay tuned for more information.
Meanwhile, I have another comment and request! The archive from the Dec. 10 Morning Show, hour 3, cuts off about halfway through "Baby It's Cold Outside". Aargh! Just when things really get swinging, it stops. I might be amused by the symbolism of having a seduction song cut off abruptly... if I didn't find it so frustrating.
I'd buy the recording if I could find it, but Jim Ed indicated that it was a 45, and I haven't found a listing of that song under Claudia's or Paul's listings.
Please, can you ask the archivists to fix that archive? Please please please? It's snowing outside.
Related Programs
| December 2008 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | M | T | W | T | F | S |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
| 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
| 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
| 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | |||
Master Archive
Recent Entries
- Become a Member
- Leadership Circle
- Sustaining Members
- Member Discounts
- Become a Sponsor
- Tax Information
- Planned Giving
- Fundraising Credentials
- Vehicle Donation
- Donate Stock