Long-time Radio Hosts in Myrtle Beach Lose Jobs
The long-time radio hosts Scott Mann and Dave Priest of Myrtle Beach have found themselves out of work due to local job cuts. Both Mann, who was the Wave 104.1 program director, and Priest, the WRNN 99.5 program director, were reportedly caught off guard by the news of their pending unemployment.
A Shocker for Many Locals
This comes as a shock to locals since both have been iconic figures in the Myrtle Beach zone. Scott Mann worked for over two decades in the market, with Wave 104.1 for more than 22 of those years. In contrast, Dave Priest has been an on-air personality in the Myrtle Beach area since 1987 and joined WRNN in 1997. The “Hot Talk” morning show which Priest was part of was a staple in the community with countless co-hosts and iterations. Despite the changes, Priest remained consistent throughout.
The Reason for the Lay-offs
Both Mann and Priest confirmed that they were told by their then-employer, Dick Broadcasting Co., the parent company of five stations in the Myrtle Beach area, that the cuts were due to budgeting constraints and not an outcome of their job performance. Apparently, around 8 percent of the company’s full-time staff members, including co-workers from Mann and Priest’s team, were affected by these cuts.
Community Response and Support
Both Priest and Mann communicated their gratitude to the locals for their massive support during their time of departure. They noted how it’s noteworthy to know that the efforts and hard work they have put into their broadcasting careers have been truly appreciated by their audience.
A Look Back at Their Experience
Priest and Mann reflected on their journey, highlighting the enriching experiences and opportunities they had. Priest, for instance, had the chance to interview Barack Obama and Donald Trump when they were presidential candidates. He had also worked with various bands like R.E.M., Van Halen, and Aerosmith.
Mann, on the other hand, reminisced his active participation in the local community by organizing the Marathon for Meals, Wave 104.1’s November food drive for nonprofits like the Community Kitchen and Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach. And not to mention his pioneering effort for the JerryFest, an annual event honoring the birthday of the late Grateful Dead guitarist and singer Jerry Garcia.
Moving Forward
Despite losing their jobs, Priest and Mann have shown grace and optimism in facing this setback. While their departure leaves a significant void in the local radio community, both are confident in their colleagues’ abilities to continue their legacy of service, appreciating the community that has embraced and supported them throughout the years.
