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Detour Dave update

January 23, 2012 at 5:32 pm 5

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A meeting that was supposed to take place last week between WBAL-1090 radio management and “Detour Dave” Sandler to discuss the veteran traffic reporter’s future was postponed, Sandler said today.

In a Jan. 13 post, The Brew had reported on the planned meeting, amid rumors that the ailing Sandler was being dropped by the Hearst-owned station, and by Hearst’s  other Baltimore station, 98Rock FM.

Several Facebook fan pages have sprung up to support Sandler, who’s been reporting on area road congestion and highway conditions for the past 25 years. The station’s news director, Merrie Street, confirmed WBAL was having “conversations” with Sandler and said they have been supportive of him in the face of past medical problems but declined to elaborate on the current situation.

Sandler had heart bypass surgery in 2009 and subsequent procedures to deal with related medical issues. One of those procedures, on Saturday at Johns Hopkins Hospital, was the reason the meeting with management was postponed, Sandler told The Brew today.

“I had a hospital procedure and thought it best to wait until I can get my strength back,” Sandler said.

Sandler , who produced daily rush-hour traffic reports on contract to the stations, said he hopes to make a full recovery and continue that work. He said the rescheduled meeting with management will probably take place next week.

  • Tom Kiefaber

    Thanks for the update on this issue. 

  • LYoung116

    FMLA can be used to take care of yourself.  This sounds like lawsuit material if it continues…

  • Zayd4

    I have been listening to Dave and been a regular “traffic reporter” for over 20 years. He is smooth as silk and really know how to get around the alternate routes. Ilove listening to his voice and have had many off the air discussions with him. He and Tamara make a great team. WBAL Put him back on the air.
    David

  • Smm498652

    If Dave goes, I go (to another radio station).  WBAL seems to be playing the “power game” here.  Have they not learned ANYTHING with the loss of the “Man of Reason”?

  • Linemaster

    Is there any update since the 1/23 article referenced above?

    I have a 45 mile one way drive and call Dave whenever I see traffic related issues. He always appreciates the information, and will talk with you if he has the time like you are calling a friend to see how things are going.

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