Gene Mueller

As Gene Mueller crosses the great divide at radio city ... from the 'home of the hits' to the 'biggest stick in the state,' I wanted to share some thoughts on Gene and my time with him at WKTI. I wrote this right as Gene was making his announcement, but held it until today.

In my 7 years as the program director for WKTI, I do not think I have ever met anyone like Gene Mueller. First of all – everyone likes Gene. Can you think of anyone in your life that has no detractors? Second of all, Gene is about a dedicated a co-worker as you would ever find. At the first hint of anything happening that is news, Gene is right back at the station – no matter the day or time. It is also not uncommon to see Gene working at his computer or in a production studio long after the show is over – taking that extra step to deliver a great product.

I'll never forget how quickly Gene moved on 9/11 from goofy morning show stuff, to serious news coverage. He was adamant that we not report anything that was coming across as "unconfirmed." Being that there was no play-book for that day, I turned the station over to him.

But you have to admit, Gene Mueller’s sense of humor is his most endearing quality. Gene has the ability to deliver a punch-line that may be biting – but with such a sense of innocence that you find yourself drawn to him. Remember when Reitman had to go make piece with Jimmy the Clown before the Circus Parade (Reitman had inadvertently insulted Jimmy and he would not go on stage)? When it was over, Gene asked Reitman if he had to kiss Jimmy “where there ain’t no grease-paint?” Funny – and to the point. That’s Gene Mueller.

The biggest thing that surprised me about Gene when I got to 'KTI was his aversion to the spotlight. I just figured a guy with his credentials and long illustrious career would want the bright light on him. The truth is the exact opposite. He never wants to be the the story. When we were discussing his last days at 'KTI, I jokingly said I couldn't get the Riverside - so I booked the Pabst. He gave me the most serious look of pain I have ever seen from him. Just kidding - I said.

Now that I am no longer Gene's supervisor/boss/program director - whatever you want to call it - I was trying to figure out where we stand. Colleagues - sure. Friends: absolutely.