It was opening night of Podcasters Across Borders - June 23, 2006. Shelagh Rogers had finished her keynote address and the socializing had begun. A very excited man in a Hawaian shirt introduced himself to me. It was Andy K, co-host of the morning show on Oldies 960 in Kingston, ON. I had no idea who he was. Bob Goyetche did. Bob remembered when Andy was a radio celebrity in Montreal during the 70’s. Apparently, Andy also enjoyed success in the Toronto market and a second run in Montreal in the 90’s.

Andy was very excited about Podcasting and wanted to learn more. We cut him a deal - we’d forgive the registration fee and he’d talk us up on his morning show. Andy worked the room that night and was one of the first people to arrive the next morning. He was able to relate Podcasting to his experience in radio and seemed genuinely interested in getting into the medium.

After Bob and I wrapped up recording our first anniversary episode of the Canadian Podcast Buffet this evening, Bob sent me a link to a memorial page on the Oldies 960 website.

Godspeed, Andy K. Thank you for being a part of our conference.

Photo: Oldies 960

Planning is underway for the second edition of the Podcasters Across Borders conference, PAB2007. The event is taking place at the Holiday Inn - Waterfront (Kingston, ON) from June 22-24, 2007.

Information about the program tracks and how to submit your presentation, or suggest one, are now available.