GaryDee Podcast: Recent Episodes
Gary Dee
(The timeline of these air checks may vary, as time fogs the memory banks. We try our best though. Any changes or updates are welcomed. We have been busy the past few years, so uploads have been minimal. Hopefully we can increase our uploads in the future. We have Gary Dee material not heard since the day it was aired. Many thanks to Dale White who mailed in many of these WWWE tapes more than 20 years ago, before the ability to e-mail audio files. Wow have time changed! Thanks Dale wherever you are!)
We begin with Gary chuckling and noting that his kids will be joining him later this month and driving them up the wall! Caller wants to know the number to the liquor store! Next caller, Leroy, offers his knowledge and experience. Gary speaks with Bruce Drennan about alcohol. They both mention Sheriff Gerald McFaul and share a story.
Gary speaks with Dick Goddard about the weather. They mention Robin Swoboda. Classic callers to Gary are highlighted on the show. Gary mentions Merle Haggard and Johnny Paycheck's troubles. Gary plays A Jerry Lee Lewis tune and mentions Patsy Cline and Hawkshaw Hawkins. Gary signs off and says he will be back tomorrow.
The year 2019 marks 24 years since Gary Dee passed away. He would have been 84 this year if he had lived – And he would STILL be GIVING-IT-STEEL!
Dr. Manalesco then gets into the significance of names. He mentions that at one time it was blasphemy to mention the name Jehovah.
Another caller brings up a positive point in that Gary Dee tried to bring together, Black, Ethnic, Caucasian people. Manalesco agrees that this was the good part of Gary Dee, but what about the “clown”?
Many Commercials.
Dr. Manalesco reminds listeners that they are discussing the significance of Gary Dee's symbolic death and possible resurrection. He then theorizes a version of life that some, or many may believe.
Dr. Manalesco touches on the possibility of two souls inhabiting one body and the holy man comes along and exorcises one, but which one?
Or is it split or double personality – schizophrenia! The Count takes a phone call referring to funerals. The tape ends at this point which concludes “The Day That Gary Dee Attended His Own Funeral”.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 43 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral EXTRA (Pt2)
Dr. Count Manalesco begins to take calls from listeners as he “stirs” the pot of Gary's original intents.
Manalesco makes some good points as he takes Gary's philosophy, and extends it to Dr. Count Manalesco's own theory.
In a somewhat shocking compliment to Gary Dee, Count Manalesco compares Gary to Joe Pyne (one of Gary Dee's heroes)!
After a few commercials, Manalesco touches on the possibility of Gary Dee having multiple personalities. He then gets into the cost of the funeral with a caller named Mary. Mary asks Manalesco if he could tell her something about her birthday. She gives her birthday as July 6, 1919 (somewhat shocking as I'm listening to this in 2017 when she would be 98 years old) however that would have made her only 54 going on 55 at the time of this broadcast.
Commercials.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 42 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974.This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times.Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs.
This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral EXTRA (Pt1)
The following hour after “The Finale” in Public Square, Downtown Cleveland, Ohio Dr. Count Manalesco, or as Gary called him Dr. Voodoo, after doing a personal appearance at “Gary's Funeral”, he headed back to the WERE studios for his 10 AM show. The show continued with comments from listeners about what Gary and WERE just pulled off. I hope you enjoy.
Local and CBS Network News at 10 AM.
After the news Bob Price (WERE newsman) introduces “His Excellency”, Count John Manalesco. Dr. Manalesco, continues the theme of Gary Dee's funeral by continuing the discussion, and the psychology of Gary Dee's intentions of a “mock” funeral.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 41 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt17) Finale
This is the grand finale of “Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral”. Here is where it all comes together. Gary's great plan is finally unveiled much to the surprise of everyone. Merle Pollis introduces Mike Betts from The Greater Cleveland Growth Association. Mr. Betts gives Gary Dee a lot of credit for getting people involved and spreading the word about all that Cleveland has to offer. After the final set of commercials a return to Public Square Live (except for Gary, who is supposed to be dead!) Merle introduces the orchestra with some funeral music as the corpse shouts and responds to comments from the crowd. After a brief interlude, Merle Pollis introduces “the deceased” Gary Dee for a final comment. What follows could be defined as Gary Dee's finest moment. Gary gives an eloquent and moving speech, peppered with his own personal brand of humor, about getting people of all nationalities, all colors, all races, and creeds involved, having fun and promoting Cleveland as a great place to work, live, and raise a family.
Gary Dee was just 39 years old when this show was broadcast. He would live another 21 years, until his death in 1995 at the age of 60 years old.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt16)
Station ID and then John Webster gives some words that are food for thought. He then turns the the microphone over to Merle Pollis live in Public Square. Merle doesn't get two word out when Gary Dee puts his showmanship to work as he begins to get the crowd revved up. Merle continues his comments and introduces a businessman from a jewelry store, and then a person claiming to be the head of the church of Satan of Cleveland. A very funny exchange of words between Gary and this person occurs. Back to Merle as he reads a letter of regret from George Forbes that explains why he couldn't be at Gary's farewell. Another millionaire friend of Gary, Alan P. Bedol of Marsh-Allan Industries gives a very nice and emotional tribute to Gary.
Alan P. Bedol (1925-2012) (http://www.cleveland.com/obituaries/index.ssf/2012/07/post_60.html)
Back to Merle Pollis who introduces Cleveland Politician, Dennis Susnik who at first puts forth a funny Eulogy for Gary. But in his last few sentences, he mentions the good that Gary is doing on the air bringing all you people gathered here on the square, bringing life to the City of Cleveland, then you know what Gary Dee is really all about. These last few words begin to reveal the “secret” of this series of programs. It wasn't about Gary Dee at all, it was about making Cleveland a better place to live and work. To bring citizens together, to downtown and to celebrate all that is good in Cleveland. A few more words from Merle and then we take a break until next time for the conclusion of “Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral”.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt15)
After commercials John Webster gives the temperature at 44 degrees as he turns the microphone over to host and moderator, Merle Pollis live in Public Square Downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Merle returns with some funny zingers as Gary Dee shouts from his casket. Merle then introduces Count John Manalasco (a talk show host that followed Gary's show). Count John Manalesco gives a very funny Eulogy all the while Gary shouts and makes very funny comments from his coffin. Merle continues with the services. Merle introduces Gary's councilman David Trenton. Mr. Trenton gives a short but funny eulogy, as Gary razzes him mercilessly. Merle then states that before we will continue with the solemn service, we pause for these commercial messages. Gary can be heard saying “make a buck Neuhoff”.
Commercial for Paint And Pattern Centers (voiced by another famous Cleveland announcer, Phil McLean). More commercials.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt14)
Bob Price ending news and turns mic over to John Webster. John gives a brief rundown of funeral events. John turns the mic over to Master of Ceremonies Merle Pollis in Public Square. Merle does a very funny opening monologue. As Merle is eulogizing “Fearless Number One” we can hear Gary making wisecracks in the background! Merle introduces the first person, WERE traffic reporter Ciatta Mickey. Ciatta does very well with her presentation despite Gary's loud and funny interjections from his casket.
Next, a pregnant woman eulogizes Gary in a very funny skit. Merle announces that they will take a break for a word from our sponsor. Commercials, 4 minutes worth! These sponsors you hear got one Hell of a deal! This was radio at its best. It couldn't be beat anywhere in the country.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs.
This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt13)
Commercials ending. With Gary Dee being transported in a Hearse to downtown Cleveland and John Webster who is at the microphone. John gives a station ID and time and weather. “It's 8:46 on WERE Cleveland it's 44 degrees”. John calls on reporter Mike Drexler for an on the spot report. Mike gives a very solemn report of the motorcade as it enters Public Square. There is some technical difficulties in communication with several of the reporters which really gives the appearance that this event is the real thing.
John Webster breaks for commercials. In between the spots, John gives listeners details of what can be expected during the services. After the commercials John switched to Mike Drexler again. Mike gives a play-by-play as the pallbearers carry the casket to the stage. John Webster begins to explain the what they are doing today is one of the brilliant ideas of Gary Dee. John further explains that psychologists have suggested for years that it would be a good idea if one could attend his own funeral and hear what people have to say about him. John turns the microphone over to Merle Pollis who is at Public Square and assumes duties of announcing the events of the funeral. Merle begins to exhibit some of his wry humor that he does so well.
Time Check: It's 8:57. Commercials abound. Gary had the number one radio show in Cleveland at this time and this was morning drive time. Forty years ago - - This was the heyday of local radio. Radio was live and well, er uh except for Gary Dee that is!
Most, if not all of the sponsors were local. This was long before the popularity of coast to coast network and voice tracked radio you find today. Satellites and The Internet was still in their infancy. John Webster states that they will cancel the CBS network news to catch up on some sponsors and to report some local news with Bob Price.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt12)
After the news John Webster returns with a promise of a report from the Hearse.
But first a traffic report!
Back to Webster with an itinerary of the funeral proceedings. John Webster and Bob Neal talk about Gary and his future in the great beyond.
Time check: It's 8:28 with 43 degrees.
Bob Price reports the Hearse with Gary's body is proceeding down Chester Avenue. Bob and John turn the reporting to Carl Monday. They turn it over to Rick Sallinger who is on foot trying to keep up with the motorcade.
After some commercials, John Webster introduces Bob Price and the News.
After a traffic report, reporter Charles Reynolds begins to describe the cortege as it passes East 9th and Euclid Avenue.
Time check it's 8:38. Mike Drexler is in the funeral procession and reports from Euclid and East 4th in the WERE mobile news unit.
The motorcade is entering Public Square. John Webster expects the Gary Dee memorial to begin in the next 10 to 15 minutes.
Commercials.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974.
Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974.
This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs.
This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt11)
Bob Price introduces Gary Dee. Gary takes some calls from of his ingenious listeners.
One caller tells Gary that The City of Cleveland is going to provide the worlds largest crypt just for Gary—The 5-Mile Crib!
A caller sings a mournful song. Gary and Ciatta Mickey kibitz a bit.
Commercials.
A female caller hits a nerve with Gary when she criticizes him for doing this type of broadcast. Gary responds by egging her on and getting her to add more and more until she then finally puts her foot in her mouth when she comments that he doesn't have to talk to that low level. Gary responds that he's just getting down to where she understands it.
Commercials.
Gary starts to pant and exclaim he is having pain.
Commercials.
Merle Pollis barges into the studio and ad-libs a bit. A caller starts to speak as Gary acts out his passing with music in the background.
The staff is heard in the background shouting Gary's name.
John Webster enters the studio and begins to eulogize Gary Dee.
John Webster introduces Bob Price and the news, with Gary's antics in the background.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt10)
John Webster promo: invitation to attend the Gary Dee funeral in Public Square at 8 am this morning.
Gary is having a doughnut because he doesn't want to die on an empty stomach. Gary checks-in with Ciatta Mickey with the traffic report.
A call from “The Vicious Piranha” who was a regular caller with a wry sense of humor, that Gary seemed to connect with.
Gary explains to a listener that while in college he had an assignment to write his own obituary. From that evolved the idea to do this series of radio programs. And Gary takes it a step further and involves the entire city of Cleveland.
A caller suggests that Gary not be buried, but mounted (like a fish). Gary says that Liz Richards sent him some flowers. Gary says God may be Black, a caller responds that God is not Black, he is any kind of color.
Gary gets philosophical with a caller and asks what would you do if you knew you were going to die within two years. A caller threatens to squirt Gary with her holy water pistol. In Gary's quick wit, he responds “There's a gun totin' Catholic”!
Gary introduces Bob Price and the news. Gary kibitzes with Ciatta Mickey who enters the studio and tells Gary to pull down his shirt because his “belly is showing”.
Gary introduces sportscaster Bob Neal. Bob and Gary go back and forth in their very unique style which make for a very funny exchange. Gary introduces Bob Price and the news.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt9)
Ending of network news at 6 AM. Commercials and promo's. Bob Price ends the news and intros Gary who says he “feels dead” sitting in this casket.
Gary begins by taking calls from listeners. Then a plug for Cleveland Tux. A female listener cry's and mourns loudly for Gary.
After a flurry of very funny calls, Gary gets serious and says: “you still have time to add another chapter to your obituary; to keep this country out of other peoples business around the world; time to build this country into a great nation, and Cleveland into a great city. Or you can continue after I go, to be racist, to be prejudiced, and to pay taxes to two bit politicians.”
More funny calls from listeners. A caller asks if there will be TV coverage of the funeral. Gary jokingly says that Liz Richards will be there with Joel Rose and John Hambrick will be there with his guitar. And Dorothy Fuldheim will Streak along with Bob Neal.
Next caller says to Gary: “You Damn Die Hard” in which Gary immediately gets the joke and laughs. Caller gets the horn.
Commercial breaks with Gary doing tags.
Bob Neal (most probably a parody) with a phone call from Gary's first Ex wife.
A caller says she does not want Gary to go. Gary gets philosophical by saying: “Those of you who don't have to go can continue to write in your pages of life, those of you who aren't dying with me today still have a chance to add another chapter in your book of life. You can change those evil thoughts of yours -- your bad habits -- you can give up sin and sex and prostitution. And the crooked cops can quit taking payoffs. And the crooked ministers can quit having affairs with the congregation and the widows”. Gary says I know sin, I was one of the best sinners the Devil ever had.
Commercial break.
Gary claims he's got wreath of thee day old flowers from Liz Richards. Gary once again states that even though he is dying, the listener can still change what you are griping about. “You could be impeaching the President” (Nixon that is!).
Gary introduces Bob Price and the news.
Commentary on President Nixon then Sports world roundup on CBR Radio Network.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt8)
Time check: 5 minutes before 10 O’clock, the ending of Thursday’s program.
Gary says tomorrow he will be dropping dead. Gary reads some commercials and promos, and then he signs off with words of wisdom.
Those remaining still have time to write your obituary. Gary introduces Bob Price and the news.
For those listeners who want to follow this podcast chronologically, at this point I would direct you back several episodes on this podcast site to podcasts titled: (Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral - The Lost Tapes) Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral March 1974 WERE 1300 AM The Penny Bailey Show Overnight: 4:00 AM Friday March 29,1974 There are six parts to this show, and it indeed adds to the content of this series.
We begin Friday morning at 5:30 AM with Bob Price reading the news when old “Fearless” begins to let out with some yells of pain, as if he were dying.
Gary exclaims he feels dead this morning – and the listeners knew they were in for a spectacular treat, Gary Dee at his best!
Bob Price closes the news and the show begins as it has many times before, with Buck Owens’ “My Heart Skips a Beat” This time with Gary kicking into high gear while he sings along and add libbs along the way.
Gary claims there is a coffin in the studio and he is sitting on it. As Gary takes calls from listeners he comments on flower arrangements in the studio. One of the staff tells Gary that they are from “Liz” (apparently Liz Richards).
Gary talks with Penny Bailey who just concluded her all night shift, which was dedicated to and all about Gary Dee. Penny describes Gary’s appearance.
All the time Gary’s callers keep a adding their ingenuity to the program.
Finally Gary mentions that Liz Richards from channel 5 sent him some flowers. Gary introduces Bob Price with local news followed by CBS Network News at 6:00AM.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt7)
Gary says he’s looking forward to tomorrow because you wont have old Gary Dee to kick around anymore. A caller says she will be there tomorrow but pleads for Gary not to leave the station because “we love you”. Gary announces that tomorrow he will lie in state in the northeast corner of Public Square with the pigeons. A caller states they station is dead when Gary is not on and that they are burying the wrong one. A caller reads Gary the riot act and that Gary’s callers are a reflection of Cleveland and is why Cleveland has gone down the drain. A caller asks if Gary has a permit. Another caller says there will be Streakers dancing around his casket. A funny poem for Gary from a listener. Gary begins to pontificate with a caller who thinks he is smarter, but Gary comes back with a KO by saying “you couldn’t take the message that I’m trying to teach you”.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt6)
Thursday, The day before Gary Dee’s Funeral:
Gary begins by slamming the print media in Cleveland. Both the Press and Plain Dealer feel the full brunt of Gary Dee as he proclaims, “Gary Dee is going out Number One!”
Callers from listeners: A caller claims she was Gary’s second caller when he first came to Cleveland. A female caller reads a short eulogy that is quite unique. A caller asks if Count Manalasco will be on this morning, which gets Gary going on Count Voodoo. A caller suggests Gary have Slovenian funeral which she describes in detail.
What follows is perhaps the most thought provoking moment in Cleveland radio history! Gary asks if you had to write your own obituary, what would you say about yourself?
Next is a cavalcade of some of the brightest, not mention funny calls from listeners that understood exactly what Gary Dee was all about! A caller claims his brother is a monument dealer. Gary asks what should be on Gary’s tombstone? The caller, unrehearsed replies: “Here lies the man who came to Cleveland with the silver bullet that ricochet!” A caller warns Gary to use an umbrella at the funeral because all those pigeons will christen him!
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt5)
Receiving calls of condolence from listeners. “The Vicious Piranha” one of Gary’s regular callers offers his last respects to Gary with his usual wry sense of humor.
A caller asks if he can be a Pall Bearer. Gary mentions some of the expected attendees at his funeral tomorrow; Councilman David Trenton, Dennis Susnick, Gerald T. McFaul, Michael Climaco, and Mary Rose Oakar, Dangerous Kudukis, and Atesh, a belly dancer.
A traffic report from Ciatta Mickey followed by The Bob Neal Sports Show. Gary calls Bob a turncoat because he will not be at Gary’s funeral. Bob Neal then proceeds to throw out several very funny zingers regarding Gary and his impending funeral tomorrow. Again Gary mentions his girlfriend (presumably Liz Richards) at the A.F.T.R.A. meeting the night before and Bob plays into it by saying she was eyeing a big, handsome, strong, attractive commercial announcer. Gary chuckles.
Commercials.
Calls from listeners theorizing that tomorrow will be Gary’s last day at the station. Gary answers the phone and a caller jokingly says “Hello Imus”? Gary then goes into a rant regarding Don Imus; Don Imus couldn’t shine my shoes; Imus never had the ratings that Gary Dee has today; Imus never got higher than third, and Gary Dee has never saddled up to come in second! A caller asks will the casket be open or closed? The casket will be open answers Gary.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought-provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt4)
Thursday March 25, 1974. We begin this segment with Gary mentioning who will be at his Funeral on Friday. Gary calls his attorney, Milt Schulman and put him on the air. Milt and Gary have a very funny exchange. Gary says he want to leave his house to Mayor Perk and his boat to George Forbes.
WERE promos.
Gary introduces sportscaster Bob Neal. Gary and Bob converse about Gary’s funeral on Friday. Gary wants Bob to attend his funeral and give a eulogy but Bob says no way. They speak about an A.F.T.R.A. meeting the previous night that Gary missed. Bob mentions “she” was there, possibly referring to Gary’s future wife, Liz Richards. This resulted in some hilarious comments between Bob and Gary.
Gary introduces traffic reporter, Ciatta Mickey. Gary asks if she will be at his funeral. She says yes and she will give a eulogy on behalf of Gary’s thirteen wives.
Gary makes a telephone call to someone he doesn’t identify. The phone just rings and rings. Gary states “she’s not even home”. No name is mentioned, but it is widely thought that it was Liz Richards, Gary’s future wife that he was calling. Gary introduces Bob Price with the news.
Calls from listeners. Gary is looking for Pall Bearers.
Gary makes a telephone call to a neighbor. The neighbor’s daughter answers. He asks for her daddy or mommy. She says wait a minute. The son answers and says his dad is not up yet. Gary asks if his mom is up yet. The son answers she’s up but she’s making breakfast! Gary is getting the cold shoulder from his neighbors. This is extremely funny material that can’t be made up.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought-provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt3)
“Amen and Hallelujah”, are you ready to go to Gary Dee’s funeral Friday at 8AM. Gary asks what will happen to the spirit of Gary Dee? Commercial for the Trade N’ Times magazine (This was a classified magazine very popular in the 1970’s similar to Craigslist or Ebay now days). Gary asks some important questions. More commercials. Next, Gary takes calls from his loyal listeners: A listener asks for Gary’s boat and Volkswagen. A listener is sitting and drinking some Mad Dog Wine. A female listener claims she knows what the meaning of this program is. A caller asks if there will be “Streakers” at Gary’s funeral. Commercial for The Cleveland Press.
Gary kicks into HIGH gear preaching “Prepare Ye The Way of the Lord” and “You must not Lust” Are you ready to meet Jesus!
Gary has a conversation with "Count John Manalesco" (a talk show host whose show followed Gary). Gary called him "Count Voodoo and phony baloney, among other things. Next is a commercial for Great Lakes Fence.
Calls from listeners: A listener says we don’t want you to go! Who will work to reduce the council for us? A listener scolds Gary and says don’t play with the Lord because with the element of surprise it could happen for real! A listener says Gary should come back as a toilet seat, which results in laughter from the control room. A listener says to Gary, may you be buried face down so you can see where you are going. Gary Dee closes this program for Wednesday March 24, 1974 with a challenge for his listeners to think! Gary states the fact that he is number 1 because he gives it steel! Gary says tomorrow morning he will begin to select his 6 pallbearers. People Power news with Bob Price.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought-provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt2)
“Sinners standing by” at 578-1300! The rest of you can go to Hell! (A pause for news) Gary states, the end will be this Friday. Put Jesus in your heart!! Gary takes some calls from listeners. Gary recalls his beginnings as a sharecropper’s son in the burning sands of the Red River bottoms of Hempstead County Arkansas! Where that January 13th morning (Gary’s birthday) a star was in the sky. Gary asks listeners, “are you ready to meet Jesus”! A caller offers to be a pallbearer. Gary says they will select 6 pallbearers tomorrow. A caller suggests that Gary should have a navel burial in Lake Erie. A caller asks Gary if he would like a priest from the church of Satan to officiate. Gary says yes! A first time caller has 40 mules to carry Gary’s casket. They are a bunch of Jack Asses! A caller reminds listeners that Easter Lilies are blooming.
A commercial for The Cleveland Press newspaper, then a Suits Incorporated commercial is next.
Gary recalls (tongue firmly in cheek) his mother would call him from the front porch, Gaaary, Gaary Deee! Are you out with Viola again!! Calls from listeners! A caller tells Gary to take Merle Pollis with him. G+ ary kicks into high gear as he testifies, “get ready to meet Jesus”!
WERE People power promo.
Gary is ready to meet Jesus! He has a pain in his chest from trying to save listeners. Taking more calls from ingenious listeners. Gary then gives some specifics regarding how his funeral will play out on Friday morning. Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord, Are you ready to meet Jesus! Gary asks a caller is she is ready to go to her funeral. She answers Gary No, but she is ready to go to his! A caller mentions Gary's hero, Joe Pyne. “Cleveland doesn’t want to grow”. A caller tells Gary to keep stirring this dead town up!
A commercial for the telephone company.
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral" was broadcast the last week of March 1974. Now, 40 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous, thought-provoking, and serious at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I won't spoil it for you.
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral (Pt1)
Gary Dee talks to “WERE’s own last vestige of truth and human decency” Bob Neal (Who did play by play of Cleveland Indians Baseball for many years). Bob and Gary talk about an A.F.T.R.A. meeting and Gary not being able to attend. Bob mentions that there is a $5.00 fine for not attending. Some Tax talk is next between Gary and Bob. Gary mentions the current President Of The United States, Richard M. Nixon! Next is a mention of the George Foreman, Ken Norton Heavyweight fight the previous night. A quick traffic helicopter report is next by Ciatta Mickey who mentions prostitutes in the area. Gary dates the program Wednesday morning the 27th of March (1974).
Gary kicks off this segment by proclaiming that Cleveland is the most sinful city in the world!! Gary takes calls from listeners. "Brother Gary" displays his unique showmanship, kicking into high gear as he preaches "Hellfire and Damnation" if you don't "repent and confess your sins"!!
Gary and Bob Neal kibitz a bit. There was something about how Gary and Bob interacted with each other on the air that amazed listeners. Bob mentions “Lonely Acres” referring to Gary’s home on Shore Acres Drive and the Lake Erie beach erosion Gary had talked about many times on the air. Brother Gary now gets into preaching mode and encourages Bob Neil to testify! Bob testifies and thanks Gary for saving him -- Truly Classic Cleveland Radio!
Merle Pollis “Weekend On The Weed” WERE October 1974 (Pt2)
“This is the weekend on the weed, an exclusive presentation of WERE Cleveland” Merle continues with his doctor as he asks the doctor for his vitals. The doctor claims Merle is a little high. Merle introduces David Weiner (SP?) but before Mr. Weiner gets started, Merle asks the producer, Stan Major for a cup of coffee with cream in it. Mr. Weiner goes into detail about N.O.R.M.A.L. and its mission. They hope to make a major push in 1975 for decriminalization of marijuana laws in Ohio. The State Of Ohio has one of the most severe laws against Marijuana claims Mr. Weiner.
A commercial for women’s panty hose is next, followed by an A&P WEO commercial. Next is a Cunningham’s Drug store spot.
Back to Merle and Mr. Weiner and talk about decriminalization of marijuana laws in Ohio.
A spot for Dr. Count Manalesco.
The final reading from Merle’s Doctor: BP 136/86 and pulse of 96, which is normal for Merle. Merle thanks his Doctor for participating in the experiment.
Commercial for Joann Fabrics.
Merle says he is going to open the phones next. Merle says he is coming down now. “I was high” there is no question he was high, but a different kind if high than when he drinks a Canadian Club or two. But he is a social drinker. Only one or two drinks when he is out. He is “down” now though.
First caller Merle hangs up on before they can get much out. Next caller claims Marijuana and Prostitution should be legalized because its been going on forever. Merle agrees. Next caller says Merle is not only a Pimp, but also a Pusher. Next caller is a female who had 3 encounters with marijuana and she goes on and on about her knowledge and experiences with marijuana, as CHILDREN are fidgeting and acting-up in the background! Merle cuts her short. Next caller says he should take one every day! Next caller asks Merle how’d he like the Pot? Merle says it was different. He can’t say if he liked it or not, but he is coming down now. Next caller claims that one may be able to get their blood pressure down without blood pressure pills! A caller asks where did he get the stuff? Merle says he can’t answer that. A caller asks Merle if he ever smoked it before? Merle answers “No Sir”. A caller demands Merle name his Doctor. Merle refuses to name his Doctor. Then he says his Doctor is Donald Duck to shut-up the caller. Merle then gives all his vitals and gives a rundown of the weekend festivities on the air with all the hosts participating in the event. Merle claims Gary Dee will chime in with his opinions also.
Merle announces that the news is next. Here is Bill Reese. Bill jokingly says, “what’s that funny smell”.
Fresca commercial, then a one calorie “Tab” commercial.
Bill Reese continues with Cleveland area news. CBS Radio Network news is next.
This is all that I have on the topic: “Weekend on The Weed”. I hope you enjoyed it.
Merle Pollis “Weekend On The Weed” WERE October 1974 (Pt1)
With The State of Colorado legalizing Marijuana as of January 1st, 2014, I recall a program that Merle Pollis did on WERE during the old People Power days. Although this isn’t about Gary Dee, it’s still interesting to see what lengths the station went to during this great period in Cleveland Radio. There is a commercial with Gary Dee at the end of this clip.
Bob Price with news ending and then he introduces John Webster. John plays a song titled The Wildwood Flower by Jim Stafford. After the song John Webster explains that Merle Polis will be here with his doctor in a moment.
Commercials.
John explains that Merle Pollis is out of the building and smoking a Marijuana cigarette. John further explains that they can’t allow it to take place in the building, and the John can’t confirm if in fact Merle has smoked anything. This is apparently a legal disclaimer so as not to put the station license in jeopardy. John says that Merle’s personal physician will be taking and reporting on Merle’s vital statistics.
Commercials.
John introduces two guests in the studio, Stan Major executive producer of the Weekend On The Weed project and David Weiner of N.O.R.M.A.L. (The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws). More disclaimers as to why Merle is not doing this in the building.
Merle makes his entrance as the host acknowledges him with a zinger or two. John explains that he will continue to run the controls instead of Merle who usually does so.
Commercials.
Merle Pollis takes the microphone as he explains that his personal family doctor is with him and asks the doctor to report what his vitals were before he smoked the Marijuana cigarette. The Doctor replied, Blood Pressure was 142/86 and Pulse was 84. Merle states it is normal for him and the Doctor agrees but it is the upper limits of normal. Merle then claimed to smoke 1/2 of a funny smelling cigarette. The Doctor reports the BP was 130/80 Pulse 116. The Doctor further reports that after one and a half cigarettes (5 minutes later) BP was 124/84 Pulse 96. Two minutes after Merle completed two Marijuana cigarettes: BP 120/84 with a pulse of 100. Merle asks the Doctor to take his present vitals.
Merle begins to talk and talk and talk and giggle almost uncontrollably and is really funny with some of the things he is saying. Merle mentions that his lawyer’s in the room and his doctor’s in the room and Nick Mileti thinks he’s making news with that new coliseum! Merle says stand by for his BP and pulse after the weather forecast. The only station in world that does that!
Commercials. Gary Dee commercial for W.A. Jones Hearing Aids.
As we join Gary he is talking to country music performer and writer, Tommy Dee in Nashville, Tennessee who wrote the song “Leave our American Rose Alone”.
Gary plays a copy of the song.
It is a song about baseball hero, Pete Rose.
Gary asks Tommy about his professional country music career. Then Gary and Tommy talk about how to write a country song. Gary and Tommy discuss the country music industry. Gary tells a story of his experiences in The San Joaquin Valley and at KUZZ radio in Bakersfield. Gary mentions Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Seems that Gary and Tommy both worked at KUZZ radio. Gary and Tommy reflect on the whole Bakersfield scene back then.
Gary takes calls from several listeners.
A traffic break is next, but first the traffic reporter girl, Chris James (sp?) asks Gary just how many radio stations has he been fired from? Gary answers with such a quick wit and with humor that can only come from a master of radio entertainment.
And then back to some of Gary’s crazy callers. Gary continues the interview with Tommy Dee.
Gary and Tommy talk about The Maddox Brothers and Rose.
Gary thanks Tommy and continues his show with a Buck Owens song, then a few more of his crazy callers.
End of Tape.
Friday March 29,1974 (Part6) last segment
A female caller attempts to make a logical point. Penny cuts her short.
Commercial for Halpert Chrysler Plymouth.
An early spring weather forecast by Penny then a time check: 5:24am “very close to the funeral”
Several callers ask Penny questions and expect honest answers from her.
A caller asks Penny is Gary Dee really a bigot. Penney answers in her opinion, “No” A caller asks Penny if the station is telling a story. He doubts that this will happen despite Penny telling him there is a coffin, candles, and flowers in the studio.
A producer interrupts Penny to say that sports anchor, Bob Neal has Gary’s second wife, Marybell on the phone. Recorded yesterday. They play the tape. Probably a Skit, but who knows for sure? I’ll bet John Webster knows!
Penny says there is a bottle of Boone’s Farm Wine in her office. She asks the producer to get the bottle so that it can be put in the casket with Gary.
A Doubting Thomas lady caller says this is a piece of garbage.
Next caller says his body is still in Cleveland.
She asks who is going to take his place this morning. Penny says Gary is being requested to finish out the week.
Penny gives an itinerary of events (as somber music fades up from the background). The remains will be delivered to Public Square, and the public can view the remains from 8am to 10am. Penny speaks with Bob Price, a newsman to get some details correct about a Hearse that will carry the body to Public Square.
News at 5:30am and the festivities begin.
(Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral - The Lost Tapes) Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral March 1974 WERE 1300 AM
The Penny Bailey Show Overnight:
5:00 AM Friday March 29,1974 (Part5)
A caller says she just got up and says people are speaking evil about Gary and should respect the man.
Promo for Gary’s Funeral. WERE Legal information.
Penny claims that John Pruter doesn’t want to talk. Next caller gives a mouthful of Gary’isms as Penny chuckles. Next caller asks Penny her operation went and says she’s in for a big surprise soon.
A caller identifies herself as Margaret H. Gilbert, The Mother of Gary D. Gilbert. She claims she will be at the funeral to mourn for her son. “Anyone fortunate enough to bring a child like that into the world is certainly going to mourn”.
A caller stutters in an audition for Gary’s Job. Next caller asks is there any truth to the rumor that Gary was a latent heterosexual. Penny answers, yes very latent. Next caller is a first time caller, and asks Penny how long she and Gary went out. Penny answers 9 months.
Gary Dee funeral promo.
Penny states that people can pay their respects to Gary on Public Square this morning from 8 to 10 am.
Next caller asks Penny is his children were notified of his death. Penny answers she doesn’t know.
Next caller says she wishes they would get Penny off the air and bury her. Penny says not until she dies.
Next caller asks Penny if she was ever engaged to Penny. Penny answers she doesn’t know exactly. Penny says Gary tended to tip a few too many bottles. And was prone to violent and ungentlemanly behavior.
Next caller asks if he’s really dead. Penny has net seen the body as of yet but anticipates is will show up by 5:30 this morning.
(Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral - The Lost Tapes)
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral March 1974 WERE 1300 AM
The Penny Bailey Show Overnight: Friday March 29,1974 (Part4)
45 minutes until the beginning of Gary Dee’s funeral.
We are auditioning for mourners, and for Gary’s replacements.
More questions about Gary: Was Gary Dee his real name? Penny answers he was born Gary David Gilbert.
Does Gary have another Job in another place? Penny answers no.
Next caller ingeniously posses as the check-in receptionist in “the nether regions” where Gary has gone to after he died.
Merle Pollis commercial for your man tours.
Next caller wants to read a poem and asks for some polka music. A the polka begins he gets bleeped off the air.
A caller with another poem.
Next caller talks about the fire in the nether regions.
A caller has a poem with a message.
Question: Did Gary have any children by his other 2 wives? Penny answers no.
Does he pay alimony to any of the three? Penny answers no.
“The Man Above” calls. He said to keep Gary. Also, he asks if Gary and Penny had anything going on. Penny answers yes, but would not elaborate.
Penny mentions that they are taking auditions, and that there is a casket in the studio waiting for Gary as he is being embalmed. They are looking for mourners for the funeral.
(Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral - The Lost Tapes)
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral March 1974 WERE 1300 AM
The Penny Bailey Show Overnight:
4:00 AM Friday March 29,1974 (Part3)
Penny Bailey promises to answer all questions about Gary honestly to the best of her ability during this hour.
A caller asks how many times Gary has been married. Penny says three.
Next caller asks Penny what Gary’s next job will be, and Penny plays a game with her.
A male caller says he would like to bury Gary in his 72 Eldorado. He was thinking of trading it in, but we could put Gary in the backseat and shove it over the cliff at Edgewater Park.
A request to be mourner is next. She is a Jewish and Gary once called her a Barracuda!
Did Gary live within the city limits of Cleveland: Yes, Ward 32.
Does Gary own a house or apartment?
Did Gary lay on the wrong bridge? Penny answers no. Was he an alcoholic? No, but he did drink a lot.
Caller asks for some religious background music while he auditions for Gary’s show.
More questions about Gary. Penny answers them as best she can.
Several demented late night callers proceed with a variety of offerings.
(Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral - The Lost Tapes)
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral March 1974 WERE 1300 AM
The Penny Bailey Show Overnight:
4:00 AM Friday March 29,1974 (Part2)
A caller says he has a tombstone idea. Penny doesn’t like it.
Commercials and a promo for Gary’s funeral in Downtown Cleveland this morning.
A clip of Gary Dee taking over the Farley Wheelwright program on WERE radio.
A question: did he really have 13 wives? Answer; No
A caller wants to audition for Gary’s job, he then decides not to.
Does Gary Dee wear glasses? Answer: Yes
Taking bids on Gary’s burial. The low bid comes from an ethnic community that specializes in cement shoes!
Commercials and weather forecast. 42 degrees in Cleveland at 4:31am
Next caller does a eulogy for Gary and requests religious background music.
(Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral - The Lost Tapes)
Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral March 1974 WERE 1300 AM
The Penny Bailey Show Overnight:
4:00 AM Friday March 29,1974 (Part1)
Penny Bailey gets involved in the Gary Dee Funeral in a big way during this segment of her show.
She gives the itinerary of Gary Dee’s Funeral that will happen in just a few hours:
“You can view the remains of Gary in Public Square at 8am. Gerald T. McFaul will throw the first shovel of dirt on the coffin. The station is looking for replacement for Gary and is taking auditions.
The job pays $40K per year and you must work 6 days per week and no Saturdays off. Auditions for mourners at Gary’s funeral also will be taken.
Penny announces that she will now answer all questions pertaining to Gary in a truthful manner.
And she will play audio clips of Gary’s best and worst moments. A clip of some early vintage Gary Kill a Commie.
First caller recites a poem for Gary and asks for a polka in the background.
Penny says she is dressed all in black for Gary. Next caller recites another poem.
Another poem from a caller.
Next caller a female auditions for Gary’s replacement and doesn’t make it.
A twisted caller calls to say the pallbearers should undress Gary and run with him nude in Public Square so he can be the first dead streaker.
Penny claims that the death certificate states that he died from choking on his foot.
The topic is the death penalty. Governor Celeste is against the death penalty.
Gary is in favor of the death penalty, in specific the Guillotine. Gary is against The Electric Chair because who knows if CEI (Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company)has enough power to pull it off.
Gary, in his own humorous way explains his ideas on why the Guillotine is a painless way to die.
Calls from listeners.
Gary is going to see Merle Haggard at the Front Row Theater over the weekend. The rest of the weekend he will sit around the backyard and watch the bear breasted women go up and down the Chagrin River.
More calls from listeners regarding The Guillotine.
A caller asks Gary what his son and daughter think of his occupation. Gary answers honestly.
More talk with listeners about capitol punishment.
Station ID: WWWE is 1100 AM 3WE
Gary starts off the hour by stating the topic “Sex in the Afternoon” He read in the Plain Dealer an article that most people worry about Sex.
Gary has a cup of coffee and reaches for his Camel Lights, when his daughter Alison asks him if she could read part of the paper, and Gary says “no honey”, that the Plain Dealer is disgusting.
So he gave her the funnies and the horoscopes. “She’s like her Mother, she reads the horoscopes.”
Gary discusses the article that compares men and women and sexual realities.
Performance failure, and faking orgasms.
Callers chiming in on this and other topics: It’s HOT…some Roger Martin comments, burning the American flag…Hypocrite… First time caller…when are the unions going to get their act together? Property taxes are due tomorrow.
Give George Forbes a call and remind him to pay his taxes… ’The Glue” (?) calls and wants to know what it is with these women who fake orgasms…”It’s So Hot” jokes.
Buck Owens sings “The Key’s in the Mailbox” with vocal accompaniment by Fearless Number One himself.
Gary interjects; “Oh Honey, you come back and I’ll give-up watchin’ Robin Swoboda on channel 8, Mercy! “She’s wearing Dick Goddard’s shoes.”
Gary Dee kibitzes with Geoff Sindelar (who passed away on March 24, 2010) about Country Music.
Gary plays some Elvis. Some calls from listeners.
Thirty-Five years ago this week Gary Dee began his very successful run on WHK radio in Cleveland.
Here is part four and the last hour of the entire broadcast of Gary’s 1st show on WHK.
I hope you will listen to the entire 4 hours of this “unscoped” and uncut show beginning with part one.
I promise you will not hear any mentions of The Internet, Face Book, or Twitter in this broadcast from 35 years ago!
Gary Dee 1st Show WHK July 7, 1975 (Hr4)
Ken Hildebrand concludes the news and opens the last hour of Gary’s first show on WHK.
Dean Martin’s - Everybody Loves Somebody is the first song of the hour.
Gary intro’s a new Waylon Jennings tune.
Commercials.
Time for calls from listeners. A caller mentions Rondeau Bay Canada. Another caller talks about Gary’s pile of bricks (his home on the lake)
A caller is a fan of Joe Finan. Gary and the caller begin to reminisce about Great Cleveland broadcasters, Howie Lund, Bill Randle, Jim Runyon.
Music, its such a pretty world today by Wynn Stewart.
Gary speaks with Doc Lemon live on the phone and some great Conversation ensues.
Charley Pride sings Crystal Chandeliers
Gary talks about being fired from past radio stations. Joe Finan commercial for Spitzer Ford.
A Sonny James song. Time check 18 before 10.
Commercials.
Gary reads the weather forecast then plays a Mickey Gilley tune.
Gary tells a heartfelt story about Jim Reeves and mentions the plane crash that killed him.
Gary talks about the Louisiana Hayride and KWKH radio.
Gary says thanks for listening to his first show and that he will be back tomorrow.
Johnny Cash –Sunday Morning Coming Down
Ken Hildebrand WHK news at 10 AM.
Start of The Mike Winchester Show for Joe Finan.
Gary Dee 1st Show WHK July 7, 1975 (Hr3)
Ken Hildebrand finishes the 8AM news. Music: Country Sunshine by Dottie West
Gary mentions that Joe Finan is off today and chuckles.
Telephone calls from listeners. They start talking about Liz, and Gary jokingly says Hey, This is the Gary Dee Show!
Time check: 13 past 8 O’clock and 65 degrees. Commercials.
Gary intros a Buck Owens song. Commercials.
More welcoming telephone calls from listeners. Music.
Gary tells a quick story about his first new car and plays an Elvis song.
Time check: It’s 8:30Am. Gary says he’s loosening up.
He tells a story about driving to California and back through Texas and into Arkansas, and meeting all the Gilberts.
Some reminiscing by Gary. He then plays Okie From Muskogee by Merle Haggard.
Time check 24 before 9AM. Commercials.
Gary tells about his boat trip to Canada. Promo for the WHK Country Album.
Telephone calls welcoming Gary back. Gary takes time to compliment Joe Finan. Music.
Commercial. More telephone calls. Music by Tommy Overstreet.
Ken Hildebrand reports the news at 9 AM. Mentions “Councilman Dennis Kucinich”.
Gary reads a live commercial for Haleen Ford during the news at 7am.
Ken Hildebrand ends 7 AM news with weather.
Gary kicks off hour number 2 with a song. Time check: 8 minutes after the hour.
WHK promo; Commercials, then some reminiscing from Gary about his Fresno days.
Some small goofs by Gary as he learns the board. Gary chuckles.
Time Check: 17 past 7 o’clock. Gary takes a call from Katey who heard her name mentioned as a winner in the WHK contest.
Time check: 23 past 7. Gary takes some callers from listeners.
News with Ken Hildebrand at 7:30AM
Gary plays Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash and makes some comments.
More calls from Gary’s loyal listeners along with funny comments.
Music. Then some comments by Gary about Joe Finan.
Back to funny phone calls from listeners.
News at 8AM
Gary Dee 1st Show WHK July 7, 1975 (Hr1)
(This first hour consists of Gary familiarizing himself with the controls and switches of the control board)
Gary kibitzes with the all night DJ about 15 minutes before his program begins. Gary is early on his first day. It is obvious the DJ is awe struck by Gary. The 6 AM news ends and Gary begins his tenure at WHK Radio. 9 minutes past 6 AM. Gary dates the program Monday July 7, 1975. Gary tells of his boat trip across Lake Erie to Canada over the weekend. Gary is surprised the key fit the door to WHK! He then reads a spot for the WHK Country Album.
Gary talks about his residence in a quaint neighborhood just east of Bratenahl, adjacent to the easterly sewage plant, 5 minutes from Hough by the miracle mile E. 55th Street.
Time Check 6:30AM WHK News with Ken Hildebrand. Ohio State Representative Clarence Brown says the most gasoline can go up in the next few years is 8 cents, and doubts the prediction of 75-cent gasoline will ever come about!
Gary jumps the gun before Ken is finished. Gary reads the sports scores. He then reads the weather.
It’s going to rain, the lawn’s dry, and my wife’s pregnant!
And someone’s ripping off my car.
Gary talks about the good people at WHK. He got his first job at a country music station in Fresno for 95 cents an hour in 1954.
A live commercial for Halleen Ford. Gary and Bill Novak talk about selling cars. K-Mart commercial.
7 AM News with Ken Hildebrand.
November 10, 2009 was the 14th anniversary of Gary Dee’s passing. If he were alive today, you could bet Gary would have much to say about the corruption scandal in Cuyahoga County.
In remembrance of Fearless Number One, here’s a recording from February 6th, 1974 One could argue that this was the height of Gary Dee’s popularity.
Gary Dee WERE Feb 6, 1974 ConfessYour Sins (pt 03)
Listeners call to confess their sins.
There are no Virgins in Cleveland.
It isn’t hard to be immoral no matter what your age.
A lady caller confesses that she voted for Perk (Mayor Perk).
Yadayadayadayada. Gary asks how long have you been a Republican.
November 10, 2009 was the 14th anniversary of Gary Dee’s passing. If he were alive today, you could bet Gary would have much to say about the corruption scandal in Cuyahoga County.
In remembrance of Fearless Number One, here’s a recording from February 6th, 1974 One could argue that this was the height of Gary Dee’s popularity.
Gary Dee WERE Feb 6, 1974 ConfessYour Sins (pt 02)
Callers Testify. There are those who know not what they say. Forgive this woman Lord. She is an ethnic.
Put Jesus in your heart.
Gary and Mike Drexler talk a bit.
Jesus was a Capricorn. Gary quotes from the Bible.
How to treat your slaves. Gary will rate your sins.
November 10, 2009 was the 14th anniversary of Gary Dee’s passing. If he were alive today, you could bet Gary would have much to say about the corruption scandal in Cuyahoga County.
In remembrance of Fearless Number One, here’s a recording from February 6th, 1974 One could argue that this was the height of Gary Dee’s popularity.
Gary Dee WERE Feb 6, 1974 ConfessYour Sins (pt 01)
Gary tells Mike Drexler to repent and be saved. Drexler wants to confess. They kibitz for a bit.
Then Gary lets lose “Put Jesus in Your Heart”!! Repent and be saved, so Gary can baptize you.
Some of Gary’s listeners chime in with comments.
The vicious Piranha confesses that he paid his taxes.
The “Pill is the vitamin of the Devil.
Send Gary all your money, the title to your home and car Because you cant take them with you.
Gary has a hilarious conversation with Bob Neal.
Gary Dee WWWE Circa 1989 (pt 07)
Gary talks with George Matyas of Matyas Welding on Cleveland’s West Side.
Open phones; Japanese products -- how hot is it -- fishing.
Gary talks about socialized medicine. (Social Security began the year Gary Dee was born).
“This county’s got to get back to the basics. Everybody works, and if you don’t work”….
Gary speaks that he should have been a minister. But an event he observed turned him away.
Paying child support keeps Gary going otherwise he’d be a bum on the street.
The subject of Bruce Drennan comes up.
Johnny Cash sings.
Gary states: “I don’t play any hippy dippy acid doper rocker tiny bopper music like Madonna”.
A caller asks when his kids are coming up. Gary responds. The topic of Liz comes up. “She’s got more money than all of us put together”’
Gary interviews Homer Luster from Liberty, Kentucky. Homer creates a variety of sound effects with his mouth.
Open phones time. Listeners sound off on a variety of subjects. Gary talks about Morton Downey Jr. and the radio bizz.
A talk about welfare with a listener.
Gary States: “Our government is so sinful, it will pay a women to lose her virginity” A caller says Gary is much better than Mort Downey, Larry King, and Bruce Williams.
Gary makes a point about immigration: For every immigrant from a country, we sent that country a welfare recipient.
Gary says we should celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Cuyahoga River burning. (NOTE: The 40th anniversary was mentioned in the Cleveland media in 2009)
Larry comments about Liz at their home on Shore Acers Drive.
As we join Gary, he’s being very quiet at first.
He lets a caller talk about Americans having a much better life if they work hard.
Then Gary lets go, adding Give EM Steel! If you’re on welfare, you’re a bum.
"There’s not one virgin on welfare"
Gary plays a few notes on the harmonica; he then plays Johnny Cash’s Orange Blossom Special.
Fearless mentions his million-dollar estate on the Chagrin Lagoons and his groundskeeper, Roger Martin.
Gary stretches the truth slightly about him and Merle Haggard.
Gary talks with Chris James, the traffic reporter.
Open phones with callers having some fun with Gary and vice versa.
Gary goes on record saying to forget Kevin Mack. Get real Bud Carson!
We want a Super Bowl Ring for Cleveland.
Comments from callers about The Browns, Pete Franklin, and more sports.
Dee says he is authentic.
Gary talks about drug addicts, and his son Randy.
Fearless discloses some very surprising and personal information about his family.
Open phones with a variety of subjects. A mention of Roger Martin.
A discussion with another staff member if Gary colors his hair.
Gary does some name-dropping. Judd Hambrick; Tim Taylor; Robin Swoboda.
We join Gary touting the talent of some of his former great producers. Gary talks about the Browns with audio clips of coach Bud Carson.
Gary asks his listeners “who do you believe” Terry Pluto or Bob Dolgan? Several listeners chime-in.
Gary claims to be Number 1 in the afternoon, and for Joel Rose to write when he finds work!
Many mentions of Pete Franklin are peppered throughout the conversations.
Caller says to call Don Imus. Gary says he has Imus’ number.
Gary quotes Bruce Drennan that broadcasting is the worst business in the world. Gary then says broadcasting is the greatest in the world.
Then goes on to say (tongue-in-cheek) there’s people in it like John Webster, Bingo Bailey, and Liz Richards, but that don’t make it bad.
Some radio ratings discussion take place. Gary claims he is going to take no prisoners. Gary explains people in his industry live and die by the ratings. And he gets paid according to ratings.
Gary states a fact that he holds the “high water mark” in Cleveland’s radio ratings, a 22 share in morning drive.
Then he goes on to talk about his radio experience in New York City.
This is Gary Dee speaking at length about, and to Bruce Drennan.
“My Name’s Gary Dee. I don’t saddle-up to come in second! This time I’m taking no prisoners”!
Time for callers to chime in with comments. Then Gary talks to Jeff Sindelar who replaced Bruce Drennan after Bruce was fired from 3WE.
Gary Dee WWWE Circa 1989 (pt 01)
Station ID WWWE Gary Dee show open for a Friday. Gary starts the show with a Pat Dailey tune, Put-In-Bay.
Gary takes a few callers from some of his “regular” listeners. They call themselves “Gary Dee Dummies”.
Caller asks Gary about Robin Swoboda, and Gary tells all. Gary has some fun with the country recording, “Mr. DJ” by Don Bowman.
Gary talks about the Browns game tomorrow. Then Gary talks about buying a summer home in Sandusky. He mentions everybody knows he lives on Drug Island in Eastlake.
Caller has a complaint about Dick Goddard never giving the wind direction during his weather forecasts.
Gary talks to Cassandra the traffic reporter. There’s a tear in my beer, with caller’s comments.
Gary mentions He will be at Cloverleaf Speedway Sunday at 7pm.
Gary Dee 3WE (Kids on Drugs pt3)
Kids on drugs is the topic of this program.
Gary demonstrates his first hand knowledge of the subject by sharing the struggle he had with his own son.
Gary Dee 3WE (Kids on Drugs pt2)
Kids on drugs is the topic of this program.
Gary demonstrates his first hand knowledge of the subject by sharing the struggle he had with his own son.
Gary Dee 3WE (Kids on Drugs pt1)
Kids on drugs is the topic of this program.
Gary demonstrates his first hand knowledge of the subject by sharing the struggle he had with his own son.
WERE 1300AM Cleveland
Here is another of Gary’s Saturday day-off programs.
Gary attempts to hook callers with each other with hilarious results.
Originally broadcast on Saturday March 16, 1974
WERE 1300AM Cleveland
Here is another of Gary’s Saturday day-off programs.
Gary attempts to hook callers with each other with hilarious results.
Originally broadcast on Saturday March 16, 1974
WERE 1300AM Claveland
Here is another of Gary’s Saturday day-off programs.
Gary attempts to hook callers with each other with hilarious results.
Originally broadcast on Saturday March 16, 1974
WERE 1300 AM Cleveland.
Here is another of Gary’s Saturday day-off programs.
Gary attempts to hook callers with each other with hilarious results.
Originally broadcast on Saturday March 16, 1974
Gary Dee’s Got Talent!
Long before American Idol, or Britain's Got Talent, Fearless Number One, Gary Dee allowed his listeners to show off their talent.
And they didn’t let him down!
This is a fun show that was one of Gary’s Saturday “day-off” shows. WERE Radio Circa 1974.
This 16-minute segment is all I have of the program.
If you have a copy of the entire program, I would be happy to upload it.
Part Five:
Open phones continue:
Gary plays a quick clip of Elvis and mentions Fresno. Gary knocks “The Buzzard” again.
Gary talks to “Ronnie Popular” of Richards Jewlers, a Ronald Reagan impersonator (Tom Bush?). More Danny Wright jabs (All in fun, of course!).
Gary accuses Morton Downey Jr. of stealing everything from him.
Part Four:
Time to reminisce.
Gary Talks to former WERE newsman Mike Drexler about the good old days of WERE (Liz, Dr. Voodoo, Bob Neal, etc).
Then open phones time.
Gary mentions the Tom Bush Danny Wright show up next.
Gary knocks “The Buzzard WMMS”.
Johnny Cash clips.
Part Three:
Open Phones Time: Bit of Budapest; Morton Downey Jr; George Forbes; The Vicious Piranha; etc.
During the WWWE (3WE) era, Gary Dee & Roger Martin struck-up a friendship that carried over to Gary Dee’s on-air radio program.
This is a program debating gun control.
Part Two:
Roger and Gary debate and interview Alan Gottlieb of “The Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms”.
Roger Martin (R.I.P. 1998) a Country Music Singer from Cleveland demonstrates his ability to debate and interview on a very different level than a singer.
Gary Dee as always, is entertaining while injecting his own brand of intelligent and humorous thoughts during this program.
During the WWWE (3WE) era, Gary Dee & Roger Martin struck-up a friendship that carried over to Gary Dee’s on-air radio program.
This is a program debating gun control.
Part One:
Roger and Gary debate and interview Alan Gottlieb of “The Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms”.
Roger Martin (R.I.P. 1998) a Country Music Singer from Cleveland demonstrates his ability to debate and interview on a very different level than a singer.
Gary Dee as always, is entertaining while injecting his own brand of intelligent and humorous thoughts during this program.
(Part 12)
This is the final segment of the second hour of Gary’s first show on WWWE.
Gary invites listeners to Swingos where he will do a remote broadcast for the final two hours of his show.
His guests will be George Forbes, Dennis Kucinich, among others.
Gary talks about his Mom (76 yrs old) in a nursing home, and she’s still smoking - more than him.
(Part 11)
Gary tells a caller that the other morning shows are computerized, shallow, facade, and lightweight artificial pabulum.
Gary comments on “Mayor” George Voinovich, and maybe a time for Dennis Kucinich to politics.
Another caller asks Gary what the hell is wrong with him – That he’s got to start getting fired-up and run the whores off of Lorain Avenue.
Gary said he ran them off of Prospect up to Shaker Heights when he was here before.
Gary talks about a near miss accident he had while driving back to Cleveland from Florida in his Eldorado.
Gary talks about his Chicago and New York radio experience.
(Part 10)
More callers welcoming Gary back.
One caller asks Gary how’s his war injury, and another brings up “Viola Bearsly”.
Gary talks about meeting up John Dale at Swingos a few days earlier. (John Dale is announcer that was fired to make room for Gary Dee’s return).
What follows is an example of Gary’s extreme intellect.
As Gary talks, we wonder where he is going with his thoughts.
Then he “lets us have it” with the truth. (This is PURE Gary Dee).
(Part 09)
Gary talks to John Krist, a fellow broadcaster that had a talk show after Gary’s.
John asks Gary how was Liz in bed!
(Part 08)
Gary mentions Bruce Drennan.
A caller attempts to get Gary fired-up by calling him a total wimp.
(Part 07)
Some familiar voices of callers from the past welcoming Gary back to Cleveland.
Gary Dee speaks from the heart. Pouring out his true feelings, as he talks about Liz and the kids.
(Part 06)
This is a short segment (2min 30sec) and is the end of side one of the tape I was using to record the show on.
A caller asks Gary if he has mellowed, and lost his bite. Because we need a voice.
(Part 05)
Begins with parody song Bernie, Bernie (Kosar).
Gary states that we use less than 20 percent of our potential.
Gary is still smoking, and his former (wife?), Judy left him and is living in Eastlake.
Gary talks about the motel he is staying at in Willowick, and that he is looking at a suite in “The Park” so that he can just stumble into work in the morning.
There’s more info on children Gary Jr. and Randy’s careers.
(Part 04)
Gary talks about the new owners of WWWE and his contract. He alluded to the fact that he had all but given up on his radio career.
The new owners somehow found him in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Gary begins a rant on the very rich and the very poor, The Rupert Murdoch’s, The Donald Trumps, and the extremes of our society, beggers, drunks, tramps, prostitutes, and that “we” will end up supporting both ends.
(Part 03)
Gary dates the program “January 7th, 1988, and compares it to his first time in Cleveland, 16 years earlier - February 14, 1972.
Gary recalls sitting at the bar at Swingos Keg and Quarter in 1972 stating he is going to take this town!
Gary takes a moment to SLAM his former employer, WHK and it’s owners.
Gary mentions Politician Gary Hart, and Tammy and Jim Bakker.
Gary said he took daughter Alison to a dance when he was in Florida.
This segment ends with a typical January forecast for Cleveland.
(Part 02)
Gary says it’s great to be back in Cleveland. He’s been gone since October 1983. And he’s back where he belongs - in Cleveland!
Gary Dee and Elvis Presley were both born in 1935. A caller asks how’s Allison and Jeremy (Gary and Liz’s kids). Gary stated he was visiting them in St. Petersburg for a month. Gary continued that he’s a Grandpa now (from Son Randy). Gary mentions his other children, Gary Jr. and Hope all are doing well.
(Part 01)
Newsman Bob Fuller introduces Cleveland Browns owner Art Model who welcomes Gary Dee back to Cleveland.
Art and Gary proceed to kibitz a bit.
Then Gary talks about a possible Super Bowl for the Browns (they were doing good that year).
"Gary Dee Attends His Own Funeral"
Was broadcast the last week of March 1974. And now, more than 30 years after it aired, the show has such deep impact and even more meaning than it did in 1974. This is a story that is humorous and also thought provoking at times. Nobody suspected what Gary Dee really had in mind throughout this series of programs. This story has an ending with a twist, but I wont spoil it for you.
Total Parts: Twenty-Nine (Plus One Extra)
EXTRA: Saturday - the day after - Gary broadcasts "Live" from Purgatory!
If you are a talk show fan, you have probably heard of Bruce Williams.
Both Don Imus and Bruce Williams are inductees in The National Radio Hall of Fame (NRHOF).
I thought you would find interesting what Bruce had to say about Don Imus. Here is Bruce’s opening monolog on Monday April 9, 2007
34 minutes of pure Gary Dee at his best. Stirring up controversy between races, and ethnicities, bringing it to a boiling point, and letting us have it with both barrels by diffusing the subject with his special brand of humor.