BLC Exclusive PARKINSON'S FORCES DREW DIMMEL TO REDUCE HIS WORKLOAD By John Landsberg, 4-15-2009
He is very likely the first voice you hear when departing from KCI Airport.He is also probably the first voice you hear when you arrive home at KCI. He’s the “voice” you have heard thousands of times over the years doing the “Do not leave your bags unattended”….or “Smoking is not permitted…” announcements. In fact, he is “the voice” at about 130 airports across the country. He is Drew Dimmel, “the voice.” From 1986 to 1991 Drew, 60, was recognizable as the weekend weather guy at KMBC in addition to doing First News. He also hosted numerous radio shows, including a very popular one at KUDL. In 1979 he decided to become a “voice artist.”Today, with his Dimmel Communications he’s a nationally recognized “voice artist” in television, radio and commercials. He has done work for more than 40 radio and television stations and for dozens of Christian broadcast ministries, including Dr. Billy Graham. “Fox News Now. We report. You decide.” Yep.That’s Drew Dimmel! In the 1980’s he became the familiar voice introducing stories and such on KMBC-TV9.However, earlier this year, he had to retire from that job due to health reasons. “Sounding like 'me' has become a real challenge 2 or 3 days out of the week,” Drew says. He can be heard locally today on radio spots for Ryan Lawn & Tree. Drew was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease 8 years ago and the disease has progressed.(Doctors have said the “onset” stages of the disease probably began as early as 1990.) In fact, most folks outside the industry didn’t even know that he had Parkinson’s Disease until they saw him in a TV spot in 2006 urging people to vote for a stem cell ballot issue.At the time, he was President of the Board of Directors of the Mid-American Parkinson Foundation. In Kansas City Drew has been an icon for years.It started early as the leader of a local rock band called the “Classmen.” It was one of the most popular bands in the 60’s in Kansas City and stayed together for 18 years. The band’s biggest hit was the graduation song “Graduation Goodbye” that was released in 1969. Long-time fans can still sing the tune today. Drew played piano, bass, trombone and sang with the group…and was generally considered the director in charge of the band’s musical arrangements and production. A 1966 graduate of Van Horn High School, he went on to earn his music degree from the UMKC Conservatory of Music.He met his future wife, Jane, in 1973 and on June 8th they will celebrate their 35th anniversary. They have two grown sons. He credits Paul Welsh, former partner with the ad agency NKH&W(elsh) with suggesting he do voice work.Welsh, who today operates “Welsh Writes,” and Dimmel have been friends for more than 30 years. The two attended the “Promise Keepers” event in Kansas City a few years ago (of course, Drew was the “voice” of the event.) Drew may have been forced to “retire” from KMBC, but he plans on continuing to stay active and productive for as long as possible. He’s touched thousands of lives in his storied career—both personally and professionally---and we wish him nothing but the best in facing the challenges ahead.
FEEDBACK 04-16-2009 "John - great story on Drew. I used Drew's voice in some of my productions in the 80's and early 90's. An icon, you're right, and most of all, a very decent human being. I always feel "welcomed home" when I return to KCI from a trip." --Richard Brundage
04-15-2009 John, In my heart I knew a few weeks ago when I heard a new voice doing the sponsored tags on Channel 9, I knew something was wrong. Drew for me has been an inspiration. About 15 years ago I had the chance to tour Drew's home studio by way of the fact that my mother had gone to Van Horn High School with him. That was a moment that really changed my life but not until years later. I always thought while I was in radio, "Wouldn't it be great to work from home in my own studio like Drew Dimmel?" A couple of years ago I got that opportunity and I can say that was the best thing to ever happen to me. Much of what I do today is because Drew showed me it was possible. Thanks Drew for the inspiration to live my dream. Best Wishes and here is to your health! Karen Carson Voice Talent www.karencarson.net [email protected]
All good wishes to Mr. Dimmel and his family. May the Lord grant Drew the strength and ability to work for as along as he wishes.---Les Weatherford ([email protected]) (LINK)
"Great guy. God bless him. Great story!" --John Holt, FOX4
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