It has become customary for me heading into this holiday to write a post about recharging your batteries over the 3-day weekend or planning ahead for the final stretch run of the year.
But this is 2020, a year like no other.
I’ve noticed during calls with clients and friends these past several days that most people aren’t asking the typical question:
“So what are you doing over the holiday weekend?”
That’s because so many of us won’t be doing a whole lot, sticking close to home, and hanging out with those we’ve become very close to these past six months.
As I started thinking about this annual celebration of American labor, it became crystal clear to me why this year is so different. Those who find themselves out of work and out of a job are suffering their own pain, concerned about their outlook, their families, and a government that seems stymied by what to do next.
For those of us still fortunate enough to be a part of the labor force, it’s been a precarious year at best. If you have your job, chances are you’ve been dodging down-sizing, layoffs, furloughs, and terminations. And if you’re still drawing a paycheck (or one that’s been reduced), you are likely engaged in tasks that go well beyond what you were doing last year at this time.
We’ve heard a lot about the heroism and work ethic of those labeled as “essential,” especially workers on the front lines of the pandemic. And 
deservedly so.
But for everyone in the radio broadcasting business and associated lines of work, your efforts have been no less important and appreciated – by your companies, your listeners, you clients, and your communities.
You’ve done it with honor, with dedication, and oftentimes, with a welcome sense of humor, so necessary at a moment in time when the grim news just keeps coming.
I believe this period has been a reminder to so many in and around the radio business about their role, their purpose, and their mission. Whether it’s to entertain or inform, to provide escape, companionship, or a few laughs, radio broadcasters have performed admirably.
So, upon reflection, I’m sending a memo to the staffs of both Jacobs Media and jacapps, thanking them for their efforts, their dedication, and their courage these past several months.
Their “labors” are appreciated, and at this moment in time I will take the time to thank all of them who put in the time, the effort, the passion, and the sweat to get the job done – without complaint, excuses, or finger-pointing.
Here’s the note I’ve sent to both groups here in the Motor City, the labor capital of America:
To all of you at Jacobs Media & jacapps,
Paul and I hope that as we enter the ninth month of 2020, you and your families are all doing as well as could be expected.
We want to take a moment to thank you for your hard work, your flexibility, your cooperation, and your spirit in the face of this incredibly difficult year.
We understand the pressures you’re facing go well beyond your workday responsibilities. The health of your families, friends, and yourselves is in focus like never before. You are all confronting concerns about careers and finances, and you’re being asked to do things that go well beyond your regular duties and tasks.
You’ve done it with great energy, spirit, and teamwork – so appreciated by both of us these past several months. You’ve allowed us the space to be able to work our way through our companies’ challenges, and you’ve been respectful of our time and the pressure we’re all sharing.
This is when you learn about your people and your teams. And for us, this year has already been a learning experience. I’m sure you feel very much the same.
So, thank you for all you do for us, for each other, and for the industry we all love. We hope the rest of this year goes better than what we’ve endured so far.
But whatever the challenges, we know you’ll be there giving it your best shot.
We appreciate you.
Fred
Best wishes for a peaceful, calm, and OK, fun weekend. And I’ll be back Tuesday with a fresh post.
Happy Labor Day Weekend.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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“I believe this period has been a reminder to so many in and around the radio business about their role, their purpose, and their mission.” Thank you, Fred. May the reflection time be a catalyst for the best years ahead, starting now!
Appreciate it, Clark. Have a great holiday weekend.
Thanks…many days your blog is a source o light and a reminder through dark times of virus, fires, et al that there’s more and better to do.
Appreciate that, Tom. Best to you, Vicky, & the staff.