Gene Burns, Michael Jackson

[Bill O'Neill]

Donna Halper wrote:
> What do you nice folks recall about the Gene Burns show?  How would 
> you classify him-- rightie, moderate, liberal, or what?  I am trying 
> to find an adjective or two that describes his show but it's been ages 
> since I've heard him.  My recollection is that he was very 
> well-informed and very down-to earth...

Burns was a self-proclaimed Libertarian.  He was clearly outspoken on 
issues of personal responsibility. He had a rough spot for anyone who 
spoke of their faith (e.g., felt bad for anyone who said, "but for the 
grace of God go I."  That would put Gene into conniptions every time.)  
Despite his temper tantrums and through them all he was quite enjoyable 
to listen to.

Burns was formatically, construct-wise, near-perfect, ran the tightest 
clock, and sold the calls and station better than anyone I'd ever 
heard.  And he was a stickler for 'transiting the meridian and entering 
the afternoon incarnation" of [the show].

Bill O'Neill
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