SUSAN BAKER - Marketing Overload
BEVERLY CLIFFORD - Clifford Consultant
DR. JOHN CRAFT - Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication
LYNDA GALLAGHER - Retired, KPNX TV, Channel 12
STEVE GLUECK - Community Ascertainment Specialist, South Mountain Community Connections LLC
STEVE GROSZ - KZZP, East Valley Institute of Technology
MAURIE HELLE - Helle International
WENDY HELLE - Fingerpaint Marketing
PAT MCMAHON - Arizona Daily Mix, AZTV
THOMAS MIHALCHICK - Retired, Radio/TV Teacher
MARY MORRISON - Mary M Media
JUDY SCHRIENER - Author, Journalist, Consultant
POLLY SCHUMACHER - Retired, KTVK-TV3
SOPHIA WONG - Retired, KTVK-TV3
Board Activities
April 2025
Board members present at the April 17, 2025 meeting included: Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Thomas Mihalchick, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison
I. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTSWe have a final theme – VALLEY RADIO THAT ROCKED THE COUNTRY. Thomas will relay this on website along with the 9/19/25 date opening. Hopefully we will get Museum Contract soon. Assume we’ll have it by May meeting. Remaining to do list – description, measurement, value of items to be checked out by Thomas and John at their get-together. Thomas and John to meet with the contact…perhaps going to discuss material and getting OK on some photos showing items. A final discussion on memorabilia to be delivered to them – August 1.
WEBSITE: We are grateful to Thomas who has volunteered to keep HOBI site going. He will re-register himself as Keeper. We thank you so much.
II. HOBI HOLIDAY CONCERT:John has alerted talent of 12/12/25 Concert date – awaiting answers. He will also check with Mary Jo West and Dave Munsey who with different circumstances couldn’t attend om 12/12-25. In addition, though Michael Dixon will appear with a wonderful “A CUP OF CHRISTMAS TEA” reading. Mike was artist-in-residence for 3 years re Shakespeare Festival and well known for voice.
III. ELECTIONS:President – Mary Morrison1st Vice President – Thomas Mihalchick2nd Vice President – Lynda GallagherSecretary – Polly SchumacherComptroller – Wendy Helle
IV. ADDITIONAL BOARD MEMBERSLynda suggested approaching new members to the board. She is checking with Carolyn Mitchell who would fit in. Other suggestions? NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025
II. HOBI HOLIDAY CONCERT:John has alerted talent of 12/12/25 Concert date – awaiting answers. He will also check with Mary Jo West and Dave Munsey who with different circumstances couldn’t attend om 12/12-25. In addition, though Michael Dixon will appear with a wonderful “A CUP OF CHRISTMAS TEA” reading. Mike was artist-in-residence for 3 years re Shakespeare Festival and well known for voice.
III. ELECTIONS:President – Mary Morrison1st Vice President – Thomas Mihalchick2nd Vice President – Lynda GallagherSecretary – Polly SchumacherComptroller – Wendy Helle
IV. ADDITIONAL BOARD MEMBERSLynda suggested approaching new members to the board. She is checking with Carolyn Mitchell who would fit in. Other suggestions? NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025
L-R: Polly Schumacher, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallagher, John Craft, Sofia Wong, Marry Morrison
L-R: John Craft, Sofia Wong, Mary Morrison, Polly Schumacher, Thomas Mihalchick, Maurie Helle
March 2025
Board members at the March 17, 2025 meeting included: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Steve Grosz, Maurie Helle, Thomas Mihalchick, and Mary Morrison.
I. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTS
Discussions we held regarding the work that remains the division of labor to complete the exhibit.
II. ARIZONA GIVES – APRIL 1, 2025
. Thomas, Steve, Judy has put info on website, Facebook, social media. Steve to augment social media. We received a check for $25.00 – a friend of Tony Martin’s from Sunnyslope Historical Museum. Hope more to come.
III. TWELFTH HOLIDAY CONCERT – 12/12/25Seems everything under control. John gathering talent OK’s. Deciding on Cory/Dixon involvement.
IV. MISCELLANEOUS1. Will call Super Star Car Wash with ideas from Board – approach. 2. Logo/QR Code at Museum.3. Help with reception. See what they have in mind.4. Will gather memorabilia from KTAR. Will notify Steve for pick-up.
NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025
February 2025
I. NEWCOMER TO HOBI BOARDSteve Grosz is now our newest member. All in. Steve has extensive broadcast, production background and best of all seems to know everyone in the media business. He’s been with KZZP, KOY, KKFR, KEDJ as well as several years as instructor at EVIT. Resides in Chandler.
II. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTSSo much to be done here by May 2025 … even though 9/19/25 is exhibition start. For a theme … suggested “The Chandler Museum presents the Dawn of Radio” … then suggested “presents the Valley of the Sun” Dawn of Radio. I’m sure there are more and better suggestions from our “talented” board. Please bring some to March Madness meeting. There was talk of moving our storage space closer in town but for the 1 or 2 times a year we need to go into it not worth the moving hassle. Discussion for later date. We need to concentrate on Chandler for now.
III. ARIZONA GIVESThomas to include on website … turning info over to Judy to place on Facebook. Steve is knowledgeable in social media, and he’ll get info from Thomas. This will be so valuable in getting our messages across to a bigger audience – especially at Holiday Concert time.
IV. ARIZONA MEDIA ASSOCIATIONAs discussed, April 22 is the date and held at Camelback Inn. More to come.
NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025 MORRISON HOME
II. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTSSo much to be done here by May 2025 … even though 9/19/25 is exhibition start. For a theme … suggested “The Chandler Museum presents the Dawn of Radio” … then suggested “presents the Valley of the Sun” Dawn of Radio. I’m sure there are more and better suggestions from our “talented” board. Please bring some to March Madness meeting. There was talk of moving our storage space closer in town but for the 1 or 2 times a year we need to go into it not worth the moving hassle. Discussion for later date. We need to concentrate on Chandler for now.
III. ARIZONA GIVESThomas to include on website … turning info over to Judy to place on Facebook. Steve is knowledgeable in social media, and he’ll get info from Thomas. This will be so valuable in getting our messages across to a bigger audience – especially at Holiday Concert time.
IV. ARIZONA MEDIA ASSOCIATIONAs discussed, April 22 is the date and held at Camelback Inn. More to come.
NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025 MORRISON HOME
L-R: Thomas MIhalchick, Susan Baker, Maurie Helle, Dr. John Craft, Sophia Wong, Steve Grosz, Mary Morrison. Not pictured: Judy Schreiner
Steve Grosz
January 2025
January 2025 Board meeting attendants (L-R): Sofia Wong, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallgher, Dr. John Craft, Polly Schumacher, Mary Morrison. Thomas Mihalchick shown in mirror.
The January 2025 Board of Director’s meeting took place at the Morrison residence on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Board members present included : Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallaher, Maurie Helle, Thomas Mihalchick, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison.
Well, Polly has decided to resign from HOBI after 10 years. For now, looks like she’ll return to Illinois to be with her sister and relatives. It may change if and when her granddaughters return to Arizona after living in New York. Choices to be made – we wish her the best cause she was the best in creating the lovely program for our Holiday Concert plus breaking down the tickets/raffle Concert plus all secretarial for HOBI and always being available 24 hours – 7 days a week … plus she has a part-time job. Don’t know how she did it all. No matter what time you called she wasn’t sleeping and always accommodating. Again – wishing you the Best Future.HOBI losing two terrific members – Thomas & Polly.
I. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTSGetting closer to the August display date. Susan, Thomas, and John have a meeting with Chandler people next week. Many questions to be answered like when they will choose the material for the Show. Thomas notes should be before the heat strikes. Just added to our storage (Thomas thinks should be in Chandler exhibition – Broadcast Beacon Light. Thomas will check “when will Chandler view storage … assume they’ll return to storage after exhibition”. Stay tuned for answers in February.
II. HOBI CONCERTSince Don was unable to attend our meeting – not sure of 12/12/25 date where HOBI fits in. Hopefully will be figured out soon as Don has spare time. I’m sure we’ll be planning soon – see if John is planning anything different – he’ll decide if adding Mike Dixon. Really be a coup if he can sign-up Cory to sing. I feel he can do it. IMPORTANT – JOHN TO ASK BRIAN FOR LINK to HOBI Concert for Thomas to incorporate.
Upcoming events include: CRONKITE LUNCHEON – FEBRUARY 4 – 11:30AM at the SHERATON PHOENIX DOWNTOWN NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025, MORRISON HOME
I. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTSGetting closer to the August display date. Susan, Thomas, John have a meeting with Chandler people next week. Many questions to be answered like when they will choose the material for the Show. Thomas notes should be before the heat strikes. Just added to our storage (Thomas thinks should be in Chandler exhibition – Broadcast Beacon Light. Thomas will check “when will Chandler view storage … assume they’ll return to storage after exhibition”. Stay tuned for answers in February.
II. HOBI CONCERTSince Don was unable to attend our meeting – not sure of 12/12/25 date where HOBI fits in. Hopefully will be figured out soon as Don has spare time. I’m sure we’ll be planning soon – see if John is planning anything different – he’ll make a decision if adding Mike Dixon. Really be a coup if he can sign-up Cory to sing. I feel he can do it. IMPORTANT – JOHN TO ASK BRIAN FOR LINK to HOBI Concert for Thomas to incorporate.
I. CHANDLER CENTER FOR ARTSGetting closer to the August display date. Susan, Thomas, John have a meeting with Chandler people next week. Many questions to be answered like when they will choose the material for the Show. Thomas notes should be before the heat strikes. Just added to our storage (Thomas thinks should be in Chandler exhibition – Broadcast Beacon Light. Thomas will check “when will Chandler view storage … assume they’ll return to storage after exhibition”. Stay tuned for answers in February.
II. HOBI CONCERTSince Don was unable to attend our meeting – not sure of 12/12/25 date where HOBI fits in. Hopefully will be figured out soon as Don has spare time. I’m sure we’ll be planning soon – see if John is planning anything different – he’ll make a decision if adding Mike Dixon. Really be a coup if he can sign-up Cory to sing. I feel he can do it. IMPORTANT – JOHN TO ASK BRIAN FOR LINK to HOBI Concert for Thomas to incorporate.
October 2024
The October 2024 Board meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Board members attending included: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Judy Schriener, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, Mary Morrison. We hosted a guest, Don Woodward of North Phoenix Baptist Church.
The topics discussed included:
I. Chandler Museum
II. HOBI Holiday Concert
III. Remembering Al McCoy
IV. HOBI Event PR
V. Miscellaneous
The next meeting is schedule for Thursday, January 16, 2025 at the Morrison residence at noon.
October 2024 (L-R) Pat McMahon, Susan Baker, Don Woodward, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallagher, Sofia Wong, Polly Schumacher, Dr. John Craft, Mary Morrison. Not Shown, Thomas Mihalchick
2024 Survivors Luncheon
Captivated by Rita Davenport's hilarious storytelling.
HOBI Board members attended the 2024 Survivors Luncheon at the University Club, in Phoenix, on Saturday, October 12, 2024.
September 2024
The September 2024 Board meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, September 19. Board members attending included were Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Judy Schriener, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison.
The topic discussed included:
I. Chandler Museum
II. North Phoenix Baptist Church
III. HOBI Event P-R
IV. Miscelleneous
NEXT MEETING – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024 - MORRISON HOME
August 2024
The August 2024 Board meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, August 15. Board members attending were: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Thomas Mihalchick, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison. We hosted a guest,
Don Woodward
Topics of discussion included:
I Chandler Center for the Arts
II Central Arizona Museum Association
III North Phoenix Baptist Church
IV Pat McMahon @ Tempe Hisotrical League
V Publicity
VI Rocky Mountain Emmy Awards
NEXT MEETING - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 - MORRISON HOME
July 2024
The June 2024 meeting was not held due to the number of Board members who were on vacation or otherwise engaged. July’s meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, July 18, 2024. Board members who attended included Maurie Helle, Thomas Mihalchick, Mary Morrison, Polly Schumacher, and Sofia Wong.
Topics discussed included:
1. The upcoming exhibit at the Chandler Museum
2. HOBI's participation in the Central Arizona Museum Association
3. ASU student scholarships - thank you letters from Dr. Battino Batts, Dean and Professor at ASU's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications, and two of the latest recipients.
4. The North Phoenix Baptist Church, where the 2024 “Mike Chamberlin and the Legends of Broadcasting Holiday Concert” is schedule to take place on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m
5. Dave Pratt documentary - we responded to a request for information
6. "Spend It in Scottsdale" request for photos and information for an article on House of Broadcasting.
7.Congrats to MIhalchicks (50 years) and McMahons (40 years) for their wedding anniversaries
8. Pat McMhaon will be a guest speaker at the Heritage Museum in Tempe on December 2, 2024, at 11:15 a.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 15, 2024, at noon at the Morrison residence.
May 2024
The May 2024 meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Board members who attended were Susan Baker, John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Thomas Mihalchick, and Mary Morrison.
Topics discussed included:
1. The upcoming exhibit at the Chandler Museum,
2. The recent social of the Central Arizona Museum Association,
3. Pat McMahon’s upcoming visit to the Radio Broadcasting program at East Valley Institute of Technology in Mesa,
4. An increase in scholarship money HOBI will provide to ASU in 2025,
5. An update on the situation with the North Phoenix Baptist Church with regards to the location of our Holiday Concert,
6. Possible alternative sites for the Holiday Concert,
7. A Dave Pratt documentary and how we can contribute,
8. The need to hire movers to help us go through the storage locker. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 13, 2024 at the Morrison residence.
April 2024
- The April 2024 meeting took place on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the Morrison home. Board members present included: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Thomas Mihalchick, and Mary Morrison. Topics of discussion included: 1. The upcoming 2024 Holiday Concert on Friday December 13, 2024. There was discussion regarding an auction for the big-ticket items, and raising our entry tickets to $20.00. 2. Chandler Museum Display (November 2025 - February 2026) - Thomas gave previews on actual boards and print showing what panels would look like. Chandler will have a graphic person doing the final signage. Panels will be 4’ x 8’ -huge. Set-up could be a faux living room with old shows on TV. Chandler likes old stories to be put on push-button audio. John is speaking with a friend of his at E.A.R. 3. E-Newsletter - Thomas gave us the Newsletter which was approved with all sorts of pertinent info regarding HOBI. We even added the April 1 Scholarship Celebration. He wants to expand and include photos which will be of interest. Thomas will send the e-mail to Polly who will e-mail to our media list.
- 4. The next Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the Morrison home.
March 2024
March's meeting was held on Thursday, March 14 at the Morrison residence. Board members who attended included: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Judy Schriener, and Mary Morrison.
Topics of discussion included:
1. 2024 Holiday Concert - now that Maurie Helle has retired from producing the Holiday Concert, some assignments for the concert have been modified. Dr. John Craft will concentrate on writing, producing, and directing with help from Thomas Mihalchick and Maurie. Polly Schumacher will be in charge of communicating with, and setting up the talent. Discussions were also held about how to increase income from the raffle and auction.
2. Chandler Center for The Arts - latest communication from the museum indicates that we should be able to display there some time in the year 2025. Thomas will follow up with calls/emails to the museum. HOBI will need to visite the storage facility and begin planning for the exhibit.
3. HOBI Museum - Dr. Craft suggested HOBI join the Central Arizona Museum Association (CAMA). Thomas will provide a copy of the membership form. Thomas found a website regarding grants to Arizona non-profits that allow applicants to apply for grants online, and pay a $34 fee that is refundable if no grant is recieved.
4. Miscellaneous - Thomas visited the Tempe Historical Society Museum to see about an exhibit there. He did contact the City of Tempe and City Manager's office, and is awaiting a reply. Pat McMahon was the Irish host at the Beatitudes from 5-7 p.m. on March 14th.
5. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 18, 2024, 12:00 p.m. at the Morrison residence.
February 2024
Members of the Board attended the 40th Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism to ABC News Anchor, David Muir.
February's meeting took place at the Morrison residence at noon on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Board members in attendance were: Mary Morrison, Dr. John Craft, Maurie Helle, Thomas Mihalchick, and Polly Schumacher. Topics discussed included:
1. A Review of the 2023 Holiday Concert and plans for the 2024 Concert. . Our leader is Dr. John Craft with assistance from Thomas and Maurie. Polly will be in charge of communicating and setting up the talent … working with John. His concentration will be on writing, producing, and directing. Our concert should be seamless. Polly gave an up-to-date Income Summary from 2014-2023. Profit best year yet - $4,068 … 2023 - $4,002. 2023 best year yet. But note that $2,000 of it comes from Donations. Our silent auction/raffle came to $1,500 …
2. An update on communications with the Chandler Museum regarding our proposal for a display there in either 2025, or 2026. No communication here. But Thomas plans to follow up with an e-mail, asking if any decisions have been made for the year date. Will the exhibit be in 2025 or 2026? We need to go to storage and plan.
3. A review of the "Golden Age of Radio" presentation by Thomas Mihalchick at The Beatitudes, on Saturday, January 15, 2024. The presentation was well received.
4. Discussion of the radio broadcasting program at East Valley Institute of Technology in Mesa. HOBI Board member Pat McMahon was invited to be a guest speaker at the school's Radio Broadcasting program.
5. Miscellaneous items: The Board voted to send flowers to Board member Sophia Wong, and Thomas Mihalchick is going to follow up a communication with the Tempe Historical Society regarding the possibility of a future presentation/display.
6. The next meeting is scheduled for noon, Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the Morrison residence.
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January 2024
The January 2024 meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at noon. Board members in attendance included: Susan Baker, Pat McMahon, Sofia Wong, Maurie Helle, Thomas MIhalchick, Polly Schumacher, Lynda Gallagher, Dr. John Craft, and Mary Morrison.
Topics discussed included:
1. Holiday Concert - The 10th annual Holiday Concert that took place on December 8th, 2023. The Board reviewed the concert, the funds generated, the results of the raffle and silent auction, monetary donations made to HOBI by individuals, thanks to Channel 7 for their recording, editing, and broadcasting the concert, the addition of the concert video on this website (see the Recent Events page).
2. 2024 Elections
Elections were held for open positions on the Board. the results:
President - Mary Morrison
1st Vice President - Thomas MIhalchick
2nd Vice President - Lynda Gallagher
Secretary - Polly Schumacher
Comptroller - Wendy Helle
3. Scholarships
HOBI has donateed $39,500 in scholarships to students at both ASU and the U of A since 2018
4. ABA TicketsSofia Wong distributed tickets to those Baord memebrs attending the "Arizona Media Future and Awards Luncheon" on January 26, 2024.
January 2024 L-R: Dr. John Craft, Susan Baker, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallagher, Pat McMahon, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, Mary Morrison. Not shown: Thomas MIhalchick
5. Chandler Museum - Susan Baker and Thomas MIhalchick updated the Board on their meeting with the Chandler Museum regarding a possible future display.
6. Beatitudes - Thomas MIhalchick is slated to present on "The Golden Age of Radio" at the Beatitudes campus on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 2:30 p.m.
7. Jerry Colangelo - discussion concerning Greg Moore's article in the Republic concerning a statue of Jerry Colangelo at Footprint Center
8. MIscellaneous - miscellaneous items not previoulsly on the agenda were discussed.
Annual elections were held at the January 2023 meeting. Results are as follows:
President - Mary Morrison
1st Vice President - Thomas MIhalchick
2nd Vice President - Lynda Gallagher
Secretary - Polly Schumacher
Comptroller - Wendy Helle
June, 2022
The June 2022 Board meeting was held at the Beatitudes, 1610 W. Glendale Avenue in Phoenix . Board member and Beatitudes resident Geri Rosato had arranged for a presentation and booksigning by Board member Dr. John Craft with copies of the book "Phoenix Television" that he co-authored. The Board enjoyed a wonderful meal at Buckwald's Restaurant - Geri and Beatitudes were kind enough to host us … custom lunch with dessert. Then we went into the Grand Hall and no matter how many times we hear John Craft we learn something new and exciting. Whoever joined us were enthused. Don’t forget - NO- HOBI Board meeting in July. Thursday, August 18 - 12 Noon is the next one.
L-R: Pat McMahon, Lynda Gallagher, Polly Schumacher, Maurie Helle
L-R: JIm West (guest), Mary Morrison, Dr. John Craft. Sophia Wong, Geri Rosato, Susan Baker, (not shown, Thomas MIhalchick)
May 2022
At the May 19, 2022 meeting at the Morrison residence, the HOBI board discussed a variety of topics including:
1. Our display at the Arizona Historical Society (AHS)
2. An article in the Arizona Republic entitled "A History of Phoenix and the Emergence of TV Stations" by Donna Reiner. The article encourages readers to visit the display at AHS. The Board was given Ms. Reiner's name by Geri Rosato, HOBI Board Member.
3. Plans for the 2022 Holiday Concert
4. The upcoming booksigning and presentation by HOBI Board Member, Dr. John Craft. The booksigning and presentation will take plaace at The Beatitudes, 1610 W Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ on Friday, June 10 at 1:00 p.m.
5. Plans for a display at the Sunnyslope Museum, the Burton Barr Library, and other locations
6. The retirement of, and the party for, Dr, John Craft after 49 years teaching at Arizona State University (see photos below). The Board presented Dr. Craft with a cake and a card.
Board members in attendance were: Dr. John Craft, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Thomas MIhalchick, Mary Morrison, Geri Rosato, and Sophia Wong. We were joined by John Melikian, whose family donates to, and supports The House of Broadcasting.
L-R Thomas MIhalchichick, Sophia Wong, Mary Morrison, Geri Rosato, Pat McMahon, Dr, John Craft.
Not shown: Maurie Helle
L-R: John Melikian, Sophia Wong, Mary Morrison, Geri Rosato, Pat McMahon, Dr. Jon Craft. Not shown, Maurie Helle, Thomas MIhalchick
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Congratulations HOBI Board member Dr. John Craft
Dr. John E. Craft has taught in the broadcast area of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications since 1973, thus making him the senior member of the Cronkite faculty. During that time, he has taught courses in broadcast production, direction, station operations, announcing, and documentary, and telecommunication management courses such as Introduction to Broadcasting, Broadcast Programming, Media Sales, Cable Television, and Telecommunication Management, as well as graduate classes in Philosophy of Journalism, Broadcast News History, and International Communication. He has served as Coordinator of the Management Sequence and was the Director of Graduate Studies for more than a dozen years. In that position he taught graduate courses in Media Ethics and Mass Media and Society as well as leading the School’s graduate program to a number eight ranking in the nation in the U.S. News and World Report on Best Graduate Schools.John was recently honored by the Cronkite Faculty. A retirement party was held on May 6. He is currently a Board Member of the House of Broadcasting Radio & Television Museum as well as several other Boards.
April 2022
At the April 21, 2022 HOBI Board meeting at the Morrison residence, the HOBI Board discussed a variety of topics including:
1. Our display at the Arizona Historical Society (AHS)
2. Arizona Gives Day - Thanks to donors, HOBI collected $4, 478.00 for this year.
3. 2022 Holiday Concert - discussion of date and location
4. Opportunities for additional displays and presentations
5. Possible museum location in Scottsdale
6. Report on the 4/15/22 Hugh Downs school at ASU, and HOBI Award winner
7. Upcoming retirement party for HOBI Board Member, Dr. John Craft from ASU
8. Remembrances of deceased newsman Kent Dana
March 2022
At the March 24, 2022 HOBI Board meeting at the Morrison residence, the HOBI Board discussed a variety of topics including:1. Our display at the Arizona Historical Society (AHS) and the Grand Opening on February 24, 20222. Website and Facebook updates3. 2022 Holiday Concert - discussion of date and location4. Arizona Gives Day - coming up on April 6. 2022
5. Brian Cisek - support material on his behalf for NATAS Silver Circle Award
February 2022
The Board met at the Arizona Historical Society's Pre-Opening Celebration on the evening of February 24, 2022. See photos of the event on our On Air Gala Photos page
January 2022
The HOBI Board met on Thursday, January 13th at the home of Mary Morrison. Our agenda included:
1. Celebrating the success of our 8th Annual Holiday Concert, held on December 3, 2021,
2. Discussing the upcoming exhibit at the Arizona Historical Society Museum,
3. Arizona Gives Day, coming up on April 6, 2022, and
4. Recording part two of Pat McMahon's contribution (currently in progress) to our Life Before HOBI page.
from L-R: Pat McMahon, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallagher, Polly Schumacher, Mary Morrision. Not pictured, Thomas MIhalchick
from L-R: Thomas MIhalchick, Polly Schumacher, Pat McMahon, Maurie Helle, Marry Morrison
September 16, 2021: The Board met at the HD South Museum at 10 South Gilbert Road in Gilbert. We had a tour of the museum lead by CEO Denise Lopez and viewed the first HOBI Traveling Broadcast Museum (see pictures below). We also heard Board member Lynda Gallagher tell us her story of "Life Before HOBI". That will be posted on our Life Before HOBI page soon. Pictured at left are board members (L-R) Maurie Helle, Sofia Wong, Polly Schumacher, Lynda Gallagher, Mary Morrison, Susan Baker, and Tom MIhalchick. Not pictured: Geri Rosato.
HOBI BOARD MEMBERS AT THEIR WORKING LUNCH FOR THE JULY 2021 MEETING. THANK YOU MARY MORRISON FOR HOSTING US.
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BOARD MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED THE JUNE 2021 MONTHLY MEETING. THANKS TO THE REFUGE RESTAURANT FOR HOSTING US.
HOBI BOARD MEMBERS AT THE APRIL 2021 MEETING. THANK YOU MARY MORRISON FOR HOSTING US.
HOBI BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT THEIR WORKING LUNCH, OCTOBER 2020, AT THE MORRISON RESIDENCE
HOBI BOARD HARD AT WORK IN SEPTEMBER 2019. THANK YOU REFUGE RESTAURANT FOR HOSTING US!
MARCH 2019 MONTHLY MEETING AT THE PHOENIX ZOO
On a beautiful Thursday, March 14, 2019, Board members John Craft. Lynda Gallagher, Tony Martin, Lisa Honebrink, Pat McMahon, Geri Rosato, Polly Schumacher, Judy Schriener, and Mary Morrison had their monthly meeting at the Phoenix Zoo - They visited the Wallace and Ladmo bronze statue, sitting near the rest area. A plaque will be placed soon. How wonderful to be sitting not the bench of the statue with the living legend Gerald, aka Pat McMahon.
HOBI BOARD MEMBERS AT THEIR WORKING LUNCH FOR THE MARCH 2021 MEETING. THANK YOU MARY MORRISON FOR HOSTING US.
HOBI BOARD MEMBERS HARD AT WORK IN SEPTEMBER 2020. THANK YOU, PHOENIX CITY GRILLE, FOR HOSTING US!
JUNE 2019 - THANK YOU KTAR FOR HOSTING US!
SUSAN BAKER - Marketing Overload
BEVERLY CLIFFORD - Clifford Consultant
DR. JOHN CRAFT - Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication
VICKI FIORELLI - Valley of the Sun United Way
LYNDA GALLAGHER - Retired, KPNX TV, Channel 12
STEVE GLUECK - Community Ascertainment Specialist, South Mountain Community Connections LLC
MAURIE HELLE - Helle International
WENDY HELLE - Fingerpaint Marketing
PAT MCMAHON - Arizona Daily Mix, AZTV
THOMAS MIHALCHICK - Retired, Radio/TV Teacher
MARY MORRISON - Mary M Media
GERI ROSATO - Retired, MS, RN
JUDY SCHRIENER - Author, Journalist, Consultant
POLLY SCHUMACHER - Retired, KTVK-TV3
SOPHIA WONG - Retired, KTVK-TV3
Board Activities
February 2024
Members of the Board attended the 40th Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism to ABC News Anchor, David Muir.
February's meeting took place at the Morrison residence at noon on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Board members in attendance were: Mary Morrison, Dr. John Craft, Maurie Helle, Thomas Mihalchick, and Polly Schumacher. Topics discussed included:
1. A Review of the 2023 Holiday Concert and plans for the 2024 Concert. . Our leader is Dr. John Craft with assistance from Thomas and Maurie. Polly will be in charge of communicating and setting up the talent … working with John. His concentration will be on writing, producing, and directing. Our concert should be seamless. Polly gave an up-to-date Income Summary from 2014-2023. Profit best year yet - $4,068 … 2023 - $4,002. 2023 best year yet. But note that $2,000 of it comes from Donations. Our silent auction/raffle came to $1,500 …
2. An update on communications with the Chandler Museum regarding our proposal for a display there in either 2025, or 2026. No communication here. But Thomas plans to follow up with an e-mail, asking if any decisions have been made for the year date. Will the exhibit be in 2025 or 2026? We need to go to storage and plan.
3. A review of the "Golden Age of Radio" presentation by Thomas Mihalchick at The Beatitudes, on Saturday, January 15, 2024. The presentation was well received.
4. Discussion of the radio broadcasting program at East Valley Institute of Technology in Mesa. HOBI Board member Pat McMahon was invited to be a guest speaker at the school's Radio Broadcasting program.
5. Miscellaneous items: The Board voted to send flowers to Board member Sophia Wong, and Thomas Mihalchick is going to follow up a communication with the Tempe Historical Society regarding the possibility of a future presentation/display.
6. The next meeting is scheduled for noon, Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the Morrison residence.
January 2024
The January 2024 meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at noon. Board members in attendance included: Susan Baker, Pat McMahon, Sofia Wong, Maurie Helle, Thomas MIhalchick, Polly Schumacher, Lynda Gallagher, Dr. John Craft, and Mary Morrison.
Topics discussed included:
1. Holiday Concert
The 10th annual Holiday Concert that took place on December 8th, 2023. The Board reviewed the concert, the funds generated, the results of the raffle and silent auction, monetary donations made to HOBI by individuals, thanks to Channel 7 for their recording, editing, and broadcasting the concert, the addition of the concert video on this website (see the Recent Events page).
2. 2024 Elections
Elections were held for open positions on the Board. the results:
President - Mary Morrison
1st Vice President - Thomas MIhalchick
2nd Vice President - Lynda Gallagher
Secretary - Polly Schumacher
Comptroller - Wendy Helle
3. Scholarships
HOBI has donateed $39,500 in scholarships to students at both ASU and the U of A since 2018
4. ABA TicketsSofia Wong distributed tickets to those Baord memebrs attending the "Arizona Media Future and Awards Luncheon" on January 26, 2024.
January 2024 L-R: Dr. John Craft, Susan Baker, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallagher, Pat McMahon, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, Mary Morrison. Not shown: Thomas MIhalchick
5. Chandler Museum
Susan Baker and Thomas MIhalchick updated the Board on their meeting with the Chandler Museum regarding a possible future display.
6. Beatitudes
Thomas MIhalchick is slated to present on "The Golden Age of Radio" at the Beatitudes campus on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 2:30 p.m.
7. Jerry Colangelo
discussion concerning Greg Moore's article in the Republic concerning a statue of Jerry Colangelo at Footprint Center
8. MIscellaneous
miscellaneous items not previoulsly on the agenda were discussed.
October 2023
The October 2023 meeting was held on THURSDAY OCTOBER 19, 2023 at the Morrison residence. Board members who attended were: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Judy Schriener, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison.
There will be no meeting in either November or December, 2023 due to the need to prepare for the Holiday Concert on December 8th. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 11, 2024 at noon at the Morrison residence.agenda items discussed included:I. Holiday ConcertMaurie Helle reported on the status of scheduled performers. Maurie does want to be on Ch. 7 with replay. Susan has set-up friend harpist – Dr. Joyce Bueckers (who is also a pastor with Beatitudes). She will play as audience comes in. Lynda has come-up with plan to have separate free raffle of a Ladmo bag as long as you have paid for a ticket. Other Board members reported on additional prizes for the raffle and auction that have been collected. Polly distributed four concert tickets to each Board member. Let Polly know if you need more tickets. 2. Retirement HomesSusan will secure an updated list and will e-mail our Tenth Anniversary line-up.3. Chandler MuseumSusan plans to set-up another meeting with Thomas and John with the Museum. I’m anxious for date and even GAP time. Slow wins! Didn’t they commit for 2025? Before we know it, it will be here.
September 2023
The September 2023 meeting was held at the Morrison residence on Thursday September 14th at noon. Board members who attended were: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Pat McMahon, Thomas Mihalchick, Judy Schriener, Polly Schumacher, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison.
Agenda items discussed included:
1. Holiday Concert
Discussions were held regarding confirmed performers, raffle and auction prizes, the participation of Channel 7, and task assignments for Board members. 2. Chandler MusuemAll quiet on the front. Susan continues to be at the meetings. Hopefully a GAP opportunity will arise. 3. Retirement HomesAlthough Susan has list – out-of-date. Wonder if names are out-of-date – perhaps the homes exist – sending our line-up just to the homes would be beneficial if you have the e-mails or addresses. Usually, the retirement homes do not stray. The managers do.
August 2023 - No meeting was held
July 2023
- The July 2023 HOBI Board meeting was held on at noon on Thursday, July 20 at the Morrison residence. Board members in attendance were: Mary Morrison, Thomas Mihalchick, Sofia Wong, Pat McMahon, and Maurie Helle.
- Topics on the agenda included:
- Chandler Museum: continuing efforts to obtain a display on the history of Valley radio at the Chandler Museum, and a report on the meeting held on June 28 with reps from the Chandler Museum
- Holiday Concert: Scheduled for Friday, December 9, 2023 at the same location as the past nine years. This will be the 1oth annual concert. Pat McMahon has guaranteed that a Ladmo Bag will be presented to an attendee at the concert. Producer/writer/Director Maurie Helle is still working on firming up the performing talent and more information will be provided. So far Laurie Fagen has confirmed that she will perform. Tickets are still $15 per person and will be available for sale at a later date.
- Museum additions: Mary Morrison reported that she has contacted a number of area museums regarding the opportunity for HOBI to present a display, but has received word from only one museum, which does not have the space available.
- University Club: Board member Thomas Mihalchick has been in contact with the University Club in Phoenix regarding the placement of historical phots from the HOBI archive in the restaurant. A meeting will be scheduled for him to meet with the General Manager and make determinations about the photos. It was generally decided that the meeting could wait until cooler weather prevails in the Fall.
- E-Newsletter: At the request of Mary Morrison, Thomas Mihalchick has constructed a sample e-newsletter to be emailed to the HOBI mailing list sometime in September, 2023. The content will need to be approved by President Mary Morrison before distribution.
- Sunnyslope Historical Society: The HOBI display at the museum has ended and been taken down. The Museum reported that our display was very popular and garnered many positive comments from visitors. At this meeting, the Board reviewed Sunnyslope’s Quarterly Newsletter. HOBI Board member Pat McMahon and Phoenix artist, Lou Crandall, Jr. are celebrating Legend City’s 60th anniversary at the Sunnyslope Museum on Saturday, September 2nd, 2023 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. At this celebration, Pat McMahon will be giving an attendee a Legend City t-shirt. The presentation is free to attend.
- Web Plan: The Board has had discussions about “podcast” interviews conducted by Board member, Judy Schriener at past meetings. Ms. Schriener was not able to attend the July meeting to report on progress regarding this topic, but the Board discussed possible interviewers and interviewees and format for the “podcasts” which would be placed on the HOBI website.
- Retirement Homes: Board member Susan Baker has been involved with the possibility of scheduling presentations by Board members at a variety of retirement homes. Ms. Baker was not able to attend the July meeting, so was unable to report on progress in this topic.
- Libraries: Board member Lynda Gallagher has been exploring an opportunity for HOBI to display at the Burton Barr Public Library in Phoenix. Ms. Gallagher was not able to attend the July meeting to report on progress on this topic.
- Sad News: Discussion and remembrances on the passing of Andy Limber, and advertising executive with ties to many HOBI friends.
- Miscellaneous: The “On Air” display at the Arizona Historical Society in Tempe was mentioned in the Phoenix Magazine calendar in the July/August 2023 issue. In the same issue under the “Best of he Valley”, Aunt Maud was mentioned as the “Best Gubernatorial Candidate” with Pat McMahon’s Aunt Maud photo. The Board also noted the passing of Jack Curtis, who used to write music columns for the Arizona Republic and at one time had a TV show on Channel 3. He was 88 years old.
The next Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 14, 2023 at the Morrison residence. There will be no August meeting.
June 2023
- The June 2023 Board meeting was held at the Morrison residence at noon on Thursday, June 15. Topics discussed included:
- Chandler Museum: discussion surrounding HOBI's upcoming meeting with representatives of the Chandler Museum regarding a possible exhibit on the history of radio in the Valley of the Sun from the 1920's through the 1980's. Board members Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, and Thomas Mihalchick have taken on this task.
- Retirement Homes: We are attempting to schedule several HOBI members as guest speakers at area retirement homes, specifically Thomas M.'s presentation on "The Golden Age of Radio". Geri Rosatto is working on this, along with Thomas M.
- Museum additions: a look at a list of area museums that HOBI could place an exhibit. Mary Morrison has been in contact with a number of museums, is awaiting a response from several.
- Libraries: report from Lynda Gallgher on a response from the Burton Barr Library regarding a HOBI display. No report given as Lynda did not attend the meeting. Postponed until July meeting.
- University Club: report from Thomas M. regarding efforts to place historical photos from the HOBI collection at the University Club in Phoenix.
- Web Plan: Report from Judy Schriener regarding "webcasts" - interviews with local broadcasting legends. No report, as Judy did not attend the meeting. Postponed until July meeting.
- Cronkite School Scholarship: recieved letter from ASU and a personal letter from Caleb Campero, our 2023 recipient. See more on our Recent Events page.
- Del Lewis: discussion of the legacy, and memorial for, Del Lewis. Several HOBI Board members attended the memorial. House of Broadcasting sent a $100 check to the Arizona Humane Society, as requested by his estate. Our next meeting is scheduled for noon, Thursday, July 20, 2023, at the Morrison residence.
May 2023
May 2023's meeting took place at the Mary Morrison residence on May 18, 2023. Board members who attended include: Susan Baker, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Thomas Mihalchick, Geri Rosato, Polly Schumacher, and Mary Morrison (no photo available).
Topics discussed included: our efforts to display at the Chandler Museum, the possibility of Thomas Mihalchick presenting his "Golden Age of Radio" presentation at retirement homes, setting up displays at libraries around the Valley, providing ur mailing list members with a regular update on our activities, and an update from Pat McMahon regarding entries to win a Ladmo Bag (18,500) and the likelyhood of Channel 7 repeating the showing of the W&L reruns. The next meeting is scheduled for noon, Thursday, June 15, 2023 at the Morrison residence.
April 2023
April 2023's meeting was held at the Morrison residence at noon on April 20. Those attending included: Susan Baker, Dr. John Craft, Lynda Gallgher, Maurie Helle, Thomas MIhalchick, Sofia Wong, and Mary Morrison.
Topics discussed included:
* The "On Air" display at the Arizona Historical Society museum in Tempe. Good news – looks as if our exhibition will remain thru November 2023 …
* A review of Thomas Mihalchick's "Golden Age of Radio" at the Sunnyslope Museum - * According to Susan and Thomas - no word yet from Chandler Museum. In the meantime, both have been working to put a presentation together to show them.
* Thomas has noted on our website that although Arizona Gives Day 2023 is gone people can still donate. He added a Thank You for donors and a button to make donating easier.
* Proposed increase to ASU TV, Radio Student scholarships – adding onto the $1,000 to $2,000 per year or $500 per student. UofA-Eller College remains $1,000 per year. * Potential "Golden Age of Radio " presentations at variety of locations
* Dr. John Craft is now Chair of NATAS History …
* interest in writing up Bill Miller for 2024 Governor’s Award.
The next meeting is scheduled for May 18, 2023 at the Morrison residence. (no photo is available).
March 2023
L-R: Mary Morrison, Thomas MIhalchick, Susan Baker, Maurie Helle, Lynda Gallagher, Pat McMahon. Not Shown: Judy Schriener
The March meeting was held on thursday, March 16 at the Morrison residence. Those attending included Susan Baker, Lynda Gallagher, Maurie Helle, Pat McMahon, Thomas Mihalchick, Judy Schriener, and Mary Morrison. Topics discussed included: The ending of the ON AIR display at the Tempe Historical Society in July; the HOBI display at teh Sunnyslope HIstorical Society Museum and the presentation on The Golden Age of Radio by board member Thomas MIhalchick; efforts to secure a display at the Chandler museum; recording and posting interviews with Valley radio personalities; the possibility of applying for grants. The next meeting is scheduled for April 20, 2023.
February 2023
On Tuesday, February 21, 2023 HOBI Board of Directors members attended the ASU Walter Cronkite luncheon to award CBS Morning Show co-host Gayle King the Walter Cronkite Excellence in Journalism Award. She is the 39th recipient of the award.
Board members attending were: Dr, John Craft, Mary Morrison, Thomas Mihalchick, Susan Baker (not shown), Pat McMahon (not shown), and Judy Schriener (not shown). Each board member had a picture taken with Ms. King.
The February 2023 meeting was held at the Morrison residence on the 16th at noon. The Board members who attended were: Susan Baker, John Craft, Maurie Helle, Tom Mihalchick, Mary Morrison, Geri Rosato, Polly Schumacher, and Sofia Wong (no photo available).
The topics discussed included:
- Feedback from the 2022 Holiday Concert - compliments continue to come in, but attendance is not as good as we would like.
- Board member Thomas Mihalchick's presentation on "The Golden Age of Radio" at the Sunnyslope Historical Society, Saturday, March 18, 2023
- Possible House of Broadcasting display at the Chandler Historical Society Museum. Susan Baker and Thomas MIhalchick are working with the museum to bring this about
- discussion of possible HOBI recognition on the website of deserving radio broadcasters, similar to the NATAS Silver and Gold Circles. Further discussion is necessary.
- Discussion of applying for grants to HOBI.
- Congrats to Pat McMahon for the article in the February 16, 2023 Arizona Republic regarding the showing of classic Wallace & Ladmo shows on channel 7, Sundays at 4:00 p.m.
January 2023
The Board met at the Morrison residence on January 19, 2023. Board members in attendance were:
Dr. John Craft
Lynda Gallagher
Maurie Helle
Pat McMahon
Thomas MIhalchick
Mary Morrison
Geri Rosato
Judy Schriener
Polly Schumacher
Sophia Wong
Topics discussed included:
* Election of officers
* The December 2022 Holiday Concert
* HOBI at Arizona Histporical Museum
* Pat McMahon at the Sunnyslope Historical Museum
* Miscellaneous items
January 2023 Board meeting
January 2023 Board meeting
Annual elections were held at the January 2023 meeting. Results are as follows:
President - Mary Morrison
1st Vice President - Thomas MIhalchick
2nd Vice President - Lynda Gallagher
Secretary - Polly Schumacher
Comptroller - Wendy Helle
The Board wishes to thank Bill Lewis, Dave Munsey, Steve Glueck, and the Melikian family for the generous donations they made to House of Broadcasting.