Becky Otto is retiring from Keloland Television after 43 years of faithful service and I, for one, am not quite sure how the place is going to get along without her.
In fact, if you were to talk to every Keloland General Manager she’s been Administrative Assistant to over the years, you’d be surprised to see that they’re not all missing a limb because I guarantee each will say that Becky Otto was their right arm.
It’s hard to say what Becky’s specific duties have entailed..but whoever inherits her rolodex will find entries from the U.S. Capitol, the Governor’s mansion, the finest eateries to the nearest flower shop and discover that she’s on a first name basis with everybody on the list.
Current G.M., Jay Huizenga told me that when his predecessor, Mark Antonitis, first took over the reins, he was wondering aloud how to get in touch with the Senate Minority leader for something. Becky said, “I’ll give Tom (Daschle) a call.” And, she did..on his private line..which she had. After that, Mark knew he was in good and capable hands.
In our conversation, Jay told me how Becky has been so indispensable to the operation of Keloland..especially during his stint as GM over the past 7 years. “I consider myself the luckiest of all. I don’t know what I’d have done without her there in the beginning.” “Her institutional knowledge, easy going style and love of our legacy has helped make this station the success it is today.” He said.
“Oh, come on Jay,” I said. “You must have seen Becky lose her temper a time or two.”
“Nope.”
“She will disagree..and speak her mind..but smile while doing it. Plus, she’s my count-to-ten barometer.
I’ve been known to lose my temper and be ready to lash out in person or via e-mail when Becky basically prescribes a chill pill and snuffs out the flames. A good thing.”
I was curious why Becky Otto, with all her administrative skills, never sought to be the “executive” instead of the “assistant.”
“I think,” Jay told me, “Becky has always loved her role of helping to organize things here and then go home and be a wife and mom. But, don’t kid yourself; Becky has excelled at representing this station at an executive level on several occasions.”
I have no idea why..but over the thirty some years we worked together, Becky always called me “Mr. Lund.” I think she’s just kidding around because I’ve never sought and certainly would never expect such formality. I think she did it with Hemmingsen too. (Maybe a respect for your elder’s thing.)
Our relationship has certainly been anything but formal. Don’t get me wrong..Becky worked for the boss, toed the company line and everybody knew that but she was always so doggone cheery and approachable.
She has not only assisted those on the executive wing to keep their ducks in a row, whenever the rest of us needed anything from help with a confusing form..something to be notarized..tickets to an event..a guaranteed laugh at the latest joke…advice on how to approach management..or even a shoulder to cry on after an ass chewin’ Becky’s was the office door you knocked on.
So, how do you find a replacement for someone like Becky?
You give the job to Becky.
After going through at least 50 applications, she has found Sheila.
Becky tells me that, after a few weeks of training, Sheila is more than up to the task.
Of course Becky would say that.
I’ve never heard her speak ill of anyone ever.
I hope she feels more ready to go than some of us are to let her go.
No doubt her husband, Sonny..along with her son..daughter and soon-to-be third grandchild will see to it.
