Rick Sommers |
Rick’s career began as a college student at WTKO, Ithaca NY. In 1982, he joined Long Island powerhouse WBLI-FM as its afternoon drive personality. But in 1990, New York City beckoned and after a brief stop at WYNY-FM to do country, he joined WLTW-/Lite FM, the city’s top rated adult music station, as a weekend and fill in personality.
His availability and flexibility got him lots of airtime for more than a decade. He later worked at WNEW-FM before leaving radio to get his Masters in Social Work. In 2009, he joined AFTRA as its Broadcast Liaison, retiring from what became SAG-AFTRA in 2019.
In 2014, Rick and his brother, CBS News Correspondent Peter King, published their book, “Ithaca Radio,” a pictoral history of the place where they began their careers. Most recently, Rick co-hosted the Podcast, “Middle Age Warriors” with Chris Cimino.
Rick is survived by his life partner, Valerie Smaldone, their cat, Bailey, and his brother, Peter King. Plans are pending for a memorial service to be held later this year.
This man was a warrior. He was a true talent and true friend and a fighter. I am so proud to have known him he was the man with a smile. I will always remember you with love . RIP my friend .
ReplyDeleteI affectionately called him "Brother Rick" because that is who he was and will always be to me. Rest in peace, power & prosperity my brother.
ReplyDeleteValerie, stay inspired and always know that I Love you. Brother, elmer