Tom Oakes Phone Home

• We want to extend our warmest wishes to one of the truly good guys in our industry — Tom Oakes, who, after more than 12 years in Anchorage, Alaska radio, has tendered his resignation as VP/GM & Operations Manager of Ohana Media Group’s Anchorage group as he announced plans to move back to the Lower 48 at the end of the month.

“Life is full of twists and turns,” Oakes said. “It changes when you face major challenges. Last summer I faced cancer and beat it. But with such a challenge comes one’s assessment and consideration of what’s important in life. After a great deal of thought, and talking with my family and best friend, I’ve decided head home. On May 31 I will say thank you and goodbye to the Ohana Media Group and head home to Wisconsin and Minnesota. My time here has given me many opportunities I may have not had otherwise; I’ve met people who have become good friends and experienced the lifestyle of the Last Frontier. My thanks to the Ohana Media Group, and in particular, Trila Bumstead, our owner & CEO, for all her support and opportunities she’s given me in my years with OMG, and before that, with NNB Radio.”

Oakes continued, “My decision is personal. I’m leaving a great job without having a job to go to (that alone probably qualifies me to have my head examined). There’s a home to sell, things to move and everything else that goes with such a change, and eventually securing new employment. I continue doing my job while planning for what’s next and keep living a life continues to be fun, interesting and challenging. And through it all I remain grateful for all the blessings I’ve had and the great life I continue to live.”

Oakes will be settling in the Twin Cities area and will be searching for a new programming position, particularly in the Country format, but he’s open to any reasonable opportunities. Oakes can be reached for meaningful conversations at 907-350-5666 or commandertom@gmail.com.