— from Karen Key Speck —
On Friday, November 3, 2017, Orcas islander Ken Speck received the Indiana Broadcasters Association / Indiana Broadcast Pioneers Richard M. Fairbanks Hall of Fame Award.
Orcas Island Bandleader, Philanthropist, Star Trekkie, Percussionist and Realtor Ken was chosen for induction into the Indiana Hall of Fame, along with three other “Hoosier broadcasting legends.”
On July 31 the Indiana Broadcasters Association announced the 2017 class which includes sportscaster Joe McConnell, TV reporter Jack Rinehart, TV videographer Steve Starnes and radio personality Ken Speck.
“This distinguished group of broadcasters represents the best our industry has to offer, not just for Indiana, but nationally. Joe, Jack, Ken, and Steve join more than 170 other broadcasters in the Indiana Broadcast Pioneers Richard M. Fairbanks Hall of Fame and we are looking forward to recognizing their careers in the fall at IBA’s annual conference,” said IBA Executive Director Dave Arland.
Ken Speck served as an on-air personality at WIRE Radio in Indianapolis from 1970 to 1985 before moving to KRPM in Seattle where he helped take the station from number 42 in the market to number one within five months.
During Ken’s time at WIRE, the station received numerous Station of the Year awards. Arbitron ranked Ken number one in his time slot for years.
Ken’s radio work began in Ohio in 1955 at Kent State University’s WKSU and then WAND, WCMW and WCNS. His early years included working at WCAR in Detroit and as program director at WSLR in Akron. There, his station was ranked number one in Billboard Magazine’s radio response rating.
Ken’s tireless charity and fundraising work for many groups resulted in numerous awards including the CASPER Award from the Central Indiana Community Service Council.
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Great article about a great person. It’s truly a privilege to call him friend. He is what makes this island such a wonderful place to live.
Congratulations, Ken! Well deserved.
Back home again . . . On Orcs Island!
Every best wish, neighbor!
Wonderful honor. Congratulations. Ken!
Fantastic news and well deserved honor!
Congratulations Ken for such a great honor!
Congratulations, Ken, on receiving this high honor! Accolades are also due for Ken’s contributions for well over 20 years of contributions of time, financial support and boundless enthusiasm for the Orcas School Music Program. Many of the instruments band students have played over the years have been provided by Ken and Karen Speck. Ken has served as a member and supporter of the Community Band and as President and Board Member of the Music Advocacy Group. Thanks, Ken, for sharing your love of music with our school and community music!