Gov. Janet Mills has declared Friday “George Hale Day.”
That news comes weeks after Hale’s 77-year broadcasting career came to an end when the parent company of WVOM, Blueberry Broadcasting, fired him from the morning radio show he’s co-hosted with Ric Tyle since 2004. He was on vacation at the time.
Since then, there’s been an outpouring of support for Hale, including a one-night-only return of “The Nite Show” to honor his career.
“George Hale is a Maine broadcasting legend whose voice has informed, entertained, and comforted generations of Maine people,” Mills said in a Thursday statement. “I am proud to proclaim this Friday as George Hale Day throughout the State of Maine in recognition of my friend George’s extraordinary career, his contributions to Maine broadcasting, and the deep affection Maine people have for him.”
“The Nite Show” episode will air Friday on CBS affiliate WABI.
Hale said that he was “honored and humbled” by the governor’s proclamation,” he said in a statement.
He also will be honored with leading Bangor’s annual Fourth of July parade as the Queen City celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The 94-year-old Hale was the voice of Maine sports for years, including University of Maine sports and stock car races in Unity.
He also served as the chair of the Gambling Control Board and of the Maine Harness Race Commission.
