Whether its the Nearly Impossible Totally Subjective Question, the Broadway Bumpers (on a country, or talk station), or just the totally positive attitude, there has never been and will never be another “Janet in the Morning”.
From”Steve and Janet” to “Janet and Friends” 26 years of starting the day off for people in the Ozarks have passed. As I type this different people are reminiscing of great times, whether it was visiting the studio, on location, or just listening on the radio. Today an era will come to an end. When Janet Ellis, signs off today, she will retire.
We have talked about it on air, a few times. Janet and I go back to our time at TV-5 together. I was on her morning show “Rise and Shine” and we worked together on a weekly sports magazine show, “Sports Scene” Since that time she has been a big supporter and voice of encouragement during my career. She will never understand just how appreciative of that I am.
She is a huge Sooner fan, and actually used to work with the program. God brought her to Branson and thousands of us are better because He did.
Her time at TV-5 came to an abrupt and unexpected end, but as promised “God opened up a window”. Safe to say Janet dove right through it. She was hired at Hometown Radio, paired with Steve, and the rest is History.
I have been asked if what we hear from Janet is the real Janet? My answer, for the most part yes. That loving, caring, concerned, upbeat Christian voice you hear… THAT IS WHO JANET IS.
Now, Janet and I may not agree on a lot of things in the political world. But guess what, that does not effect us at all. Its about respect and love… Hey Nation, maybe you should pay attention.
Because of Janet Ellis countless kids across the Ozarks got a little media attention and a moment in the spotlight. My son Derek was one of those kids. Janet and I still laugh at how he gave his whole name to her when she asked him, and his response to her question about being ready for the program. “You Bet I am”
Janet’s desire to honor our teachers led to so many in that profession getting recognition with the Teacher of the Month program that she championed.
Many area athletes don’t know just how big of a fan and supporter Janet has been and remains. On Friday Nights, if she isn’t at a game, she would spend plenty of time of the radio, flipping back and forth between games.
As I closed with during my visit with her, on air, earlier this week. Branson is a better place, in part Branson is what it is, because of Janet Ellis.
Happy Retirement, Janet. And, once again. THANK YOU.
Love You