Harford County (October 4, 2002) -- Sportscaster Chris Ely is out at WBAL-TV (11). The end came swiftly and without the advance public knowledge that characterized WJZ's dismissal of John Buren earlier this year. Ely filed his last report Sunday night, September 29, commenting on the air that his departure was not of his choosing. You may remember Ely joined WJZ (13) as a weekend sportscaster in early 1989, following a long on-air audition process that Channel 13 milked for as much publicity as it could get. After 'JZ cut him loose last year, Ely hooked up with Channel 11 as a part-timer, covering weekend sports and backing up Gerry Sandusky. Apparently, however, WBAL management decided they could improve upon Ely's ever-present verbal stumbles, and has hired Sarah Caldwell of WTXF-TV, Channel 29 in Philadelphia, to replace him.
Meanwhile over at WBFF-TV (45), meteorologist Mary Ellen Pann is gone. Mary Ellen, whose husband Tony was once a Channel 11 forecaster, has motored north to York and WPMT-TV (43). By the way, Tony Pann remains in Washington as meteorologist for WUSA-TV (9). It's a shame they can't get frequent flyer miles for interstate highway travel.
Helen Deane, wife of legendary Baltimore dj Buddy Deane, is recovering at home in Pine Bluff, AR, following a recent near-fatal stroke. Helen's been in poor health for some time now. This no doubt was a factor in Buddy's recent decision to sell his remaining radio stations and retire. Messages to Helen or Buddy Deane can be emailed to me, and I'll be happy to forward them.
Finally, has anyone noticed the lineup of guests who have appeared recently on "The Ronnie Dove Show" on WHFC-FM (91.1)? Brenda Lee, Johnny Tillotson, Bobby Vee, Mel Carter, Billy Joe Royal and Dolly Parton are just some of the talented folks who have dropped by or called in thus far. Ronnie's kicking around the idea of bringing some of his old friends together for an oldies concert at Harford Community College sometime during 2003. "The Ronnie Dove Show" airs Monday nights at 8:00 on WHFC-FM.
On the local arts and entertainment scene, the Abingdon Fire Company will hold their big Christmas & Craft Show, Saturday, October 26th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. 410-638-3955, extension 4906 for more information.
The Nutcracker will be presented November 29 - December 1 at the Amoss Center on the Harford Community College campus. The number for ticket information is 410-836-4211.
The Festival of Trees takes place November 30 to December 7 at the Havre de Grace Community Center. There is an admission charge. 410-939-3303.
And the annual Bel Air Christmas Parade takes place Sunday, December 1 beginning at 3:30 pm. The parade will follow along Main Street in downtown Bel Air.
Don't forget, set your watches and clocks BACK one hour before retiring for the night on Saturday, October 27.
Have a question or comment about this column or local media? Email me at gwhelton@yahoo.com.
GH
