My old friend Chris Justice wrestled with the same decision many of us in the Charlotte media do. Should we serve viewers, readers and listeners or should we serve a higher power?
Chris chose the latter. He'll leave WCNC, where he is a news anchor, to become a Southern Baptist minister.
Although I am a former Altar Boy, I'll stay. Just as a politican who doesn't vote has little credibility, so does a pastor, priest or minister who doesn't go to church.
In the late 1990s Chris and I began doing a Saturday morning show at WFNZ called Weekend Warriors. You remember, don't you? Brings back great memories, doesn't it? If you want to stop reading and grab the highlight CD or DVD, I don't blame you.
Weekend Warriors is still talked about, primarily by the third member of our team, Mark "Fatty" Mazzone.
Chris was the star. He's smart and funny, graceful and relaxed, and is the only commentator I've ever heard who can praise Ohio State without sounding terribly obnoxious.
Chris just sounded regular obnoxious.
Even back in our radio days, he had network hair. Every Saturday morning the headphones would beat it down and squish it. If Chris had to go from the station to a TV assignment, he would simply add water and his hair would instantly sprout to its former glory.
Along with network hair, Chris has network talent. He could do anything in broadcasting locally or nationally.
We all have dreams and Chris had the courage to walk away from a good gig, good money and lots of attention to fulfill his.
Good luck, Chris. If I'm not intruding, I'd love to catch you some Sunday morning. I'll invite Mazzone.
We'll take separate cars.
Your friend is doing a good thing, if it's his calling. But I don't want to over look the good thing you did by giving him this shout-out.
Posted by: James | February 08, 2008 at 06:56 PM
Chris, Best wishes on your new position. Even us University of Miami fans appreciated both your regular and terribly obnoxious support of the buckeyes. We will miss you on both the radio and tv. For Tom to give you some print space confirms that you have been a great champion and I predict you will be a terrific minister.
Many Blessings to You and Your Family
Posted by: Jay | February 08, 2008 at 09:07 PM
I agree...UM fans tired of the regular 'and the final score is'!!!!!
Posted by: john | February 09, 2008 at 08:06 AM