This site has been set up for everyone who's lives have been touched by Ron. It has not been possible for all to pay respect at his memorial in Connecticut. You can share your thoughts and memories right here, and read what others have felt.
To submit your thoughts, you do not have to "log in." Click on the "comments" link, then select the "nickname" button if you want to sign your name. If not, click the "Anonomous" button. Lastly, click on "Publish Post" to submit your words.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Ron Scalise touched all of our lives. Beyond his groundbreaking audio accomplishments in the television industry he was a human being first and foremost, who we will all miss but remember forever.
32 comments:
Anonymous
said...
I first worked with Ron back in the early 1980's. We were part a group of new freelancers in New England that was put on the map because of ESPN starting up. I saw him when he was an A2 and before too long he was mixing as an A1. I worked with him on all those Hartford Whalers games. His obvious skills then lead him to larger packages with ESPN. In no time he went from working local shows in the northeast to major broadcasts all over the country. Everyone in the biz knew Ron Scalise. My main point is that I knew Ron for a LONG time. The longer I know someone, the more meaningful and cherished the friendship is. I could just stand there with Ron and say nothing, but know that each of us knew we shared the bond of longevity. I have such respect for Ron and will miss him so much. A part of me, as well as a part of all who knew him is missing now. But everytime I hear the roar of a NASCAR engine, the scraping of a skateboard on some coping, or the ding of a football hitting a goalpost, I will always think of him, my friend and colleague for a LONG time. Thanks Ron.
I have also known Ron for a long time. As the 17 year-old smart-assed son of the boss, I was dumped on Ron as his utility for an early ESPN golf event. I promptly ran his anvil-case/toolbox over with a golf cart and that began a friendship that has lasted better than 25 years.
We had our car stolen at a Benihanaa's in Montreal... with ALL of our stuff in it. There was the close call with dinosaurs at Watkins Glen and a million laughs in between, from one racr track to another.
I saw him 2 weeks ago at the SVG meetings in NY where we picked up as we always did...in the most nasel of radio-modified-distorted voices..."hello RON?"
I was trying to think when was the first time I met Ron. I hate to say that I don't remember. It was back in those busy early 80's days when you hardly had time to remember what city you were in, let alone anything else. During that time I was an EIC, or "Truck Guy" for ESPN. Really, as an EIC, the first time you really noticed a freelancer was when they caused trouble and made your life harder. Of course, Ron was never that guy.
I had years of great fun working with Ron, and a lot of that on the NASCAR circuit. I'd be down in the pits taking care of the RF mics and cameras and pretty much isolated from the rest of the show. Regardless of how busy the show was or how deep he was into the mix, he'd always be the guy you knew you could count on at the other end of the radio. Most of the time he was my lifeline when I needed help.
There's no good reason for Ron to be gone. If there is one thing we can take away from this horrible tragedy, it's to remind us to stay in touch with each other and not let too much time go past between some kind of contact.
i just saw ron recently,he said he was loving life..and things were great. he really had found his niche at ESPN. ya know it's funny how you remember things that people say many years ago. at least once a week,i think of ron after i have shave in the morning. back in the days after a nascar race after i had just showered and shaved as fast as i could and raced down to the hotel bar, ronnie would be the first one there usually with bill fuchs close behind..i'd say "hey ronnie whats up?" he'd look at me and say, "damn ted, you clean up nice" and i'd say "ronnie it's not me, it's the company i keep" and we'd clink glasses and kick em back. ronnie, here's to you brother
mess here i have know ron for about12 years at every event we worked togeether he as an audio man and me as a videoman wold stop whatever we were doing would shake hands talk about family and friends and no matter how bad things would be going in a show he would make you feel good and put a a smile on your face i will miss him truley heres to you ron
Rossario, RJ, and Brenna: When some time has passed, you will read countless letters about what a creative genius your father was. Passion and creativity made him tick. However, I would just like you to know that your Dad's best qualities from my stand point were, compassion and composure. He took the time to consider co-workers opinions, and he always kept his cool in the audio booth when the Producers and Directors lost theirs. (I know because I was the first ESPN Motorsports Producer) Your father knew from the beginning of his professional career that the way to accomplish great things was to have enthusiasm and to always bring a "can-do" attitude to everything he did. I so appreciated that spirit. That spirit will live on in you as well. Accomplishments and trophies are nice, but I'll remember your Dad as someone I just liked being around. That is perhaps the best legacy of all. I really liked Ron Scalise. With deepest sympathy, Terry Lingner
I'm so proud to have know, worked with, learned from, and laughed with Ron. It's been too many years to count, but I'm also proud we called each other "friend". If I take one thing from his passing, it's that in this crazy business the one thing that shines most and means most is each of you, my colleagues and friends. Peace to Ron. Love to his wonderful family; he was SO proud of ALL of you.
Thank you for the opportunity to post this comment.
Word started to circulate through the sports TV community on Friday morning. One of ESPN's best known "crew guys" had lost his life late Thursday night in a single car accident on a Connecticut highway.
Ron Scalise was only 54 years old. In his decades of hard work on the road, Scalise had become an audio legend. As we said many times this season, the ESPN audio of the NASCAR races was outstanding. It had to be, if Ron was in charge.
Over the years, Scalise had moved-on to become what many consider the "audio guru" of sports television. He wanted to educate both the industry and the public on the incredible changes taking place in the audio side of the television world. The technical innovations that he helped bring to TV sports coverage will never be forgotten.
NASCAR fans may remember during the "old" ESPN days when Ron pushed the "natural sound" from the cars right-up against the announcers voices. Even though the announcers were actually high-up in an air conditioned booth, Ron still made them "talk over" the real sound of the race. It made all the difference in the world.
Remember loudly hearing your first "air gun" on a pit stop? How about the tires of a car squealing as it left pit road? When a car spun, hit the wall and you actually heard it hit...at home. That was Ron.
Few people in the sports TV business had the single-minded focus of Ron Scalise. As a part of his drive, he met and befriended many young people who were willing to work hard and learn the audio side of the business. One outstanding testament to Ron's influence can be read by clicking here for Frenchy's blog.
Ron influenced the importance of audio in almost every sports telecast, and he was able to do it because ESPN was on-the-air every day for 24 hours. As the network grew, Ron was able to pass along his belief that a strong natural sound "bed" should be a vital part of every sports event. Sports TV viewers grew to expect that if they saw it, they should be able to hear it.
In the middle of a screaming crowd at a Duke vs. Carolina game, ESPN viewers could hear the players sneakers squeaking on the floor under the basket. When Tony Hawk or Saun White tipped slowly off the lip and headed down the "vert ramp" at lightning speed, all four wheels of that skateboard made their way right into your home.
That was the whole idea. While the announcers told you about the action, and the cameras showed it to you, there was only one way to make it real. That was to hear it.
In my ESPN NASCAR days, it was Ron Scalise at one analog audio board behind a glass window mixing the entire race by hand. He sat in the same part of the TV truck as the Producer, Director, Technical Director, Graphics Operator, Assistant Producer, and Associate Director. It made for cozy confines, and rather stimulating conversation.
Decades later, Scalise was moderating seminars on how Digital Dolby Surround Sound should be used in major sports venues. His success was due to hard work and seemingly endless dedication to his cause. We can only hope that the generation of audio mixers influenced by Ron will keep his memory alive by passing on his passion for using audio to bring the event right into the viewer's home.
Ron Scalise won 14 National Emmy Awards and called Kenmore, NY his home. The sports TV world will go on, but it will never be the same.
I cannot remember when I first met Ron. I feel like I have known him forever. Ron was that kind of guy a friend to all and always willing to help another out.
Ron will be missed and remembered for a long time. I just know he will be critiquing our mixes from a better place.
Thanks for your many gifts and especially for your friendship.
Dawn has written this as a response to the tremendous amount of LOVE and incredible outpouring of support from everyone. We went to see Ron and say goodbye to him today with his kids and his Mom and Dad. Words can't describe how incredibly difficult this was and the amount of strength it took for us to get through it can only have come from knowing that all of you are there behind us. I can't say how much all the support and prayers have helped this incredibly strong family, I hope that you all know how much it truly means that your thoughts and prayers have managed to carry us all through what has to be the most difficult thing any of us should ever have to face. I loved Ron as many of you did and am honored to be able to offer what little I can to help out his amazing family. He will never be forgotten. I personally will never forget all the support and kindness that everyone has shown to Ron's family and to me through out all of this and I want to thank you all from the bottom of my incredibly sad heart. Kevin
It is hard for me to even begin to express my gratitude for the outpouring of affection that you have all showed after this heart wrenching blow to our family this week. I knew my Ronny worked with many, many people and I have heard each and every one of your names at least once at one time or another, but I obviously never, ever imagined the actual impact he made. My greatest thankfulness is for Kevin Cleary who, after my 5:00 AM call to him after the police left our house on Friday morning, immediately boarded a plane for Connecticut. He, along with my oldest and dearest friend Mary Jo, have been by my side and have literally held me up throughout this entire nightmare so far. They have both been angels for me, for Ronny’s children and his entire family. I know it has been so physically and emotionally exhausting for both of them. Kevin has especially unselfishly put my and our family’s needs in front of his own these past few days while he is grieving nearly as much as the kids and I are. Right now he is asleep on the couch in the next room with his computer on his lap and his phone in his hand; neither of which have been silent for now 67 hours. Ron was my best friend, my confidant and the love of my life. I now understand how people can die from a broken heart. I shared Ron with his ever-demanding career and with all of you which made our life together extremely unconventional, as many of you can understand. However, two people could not have been more in love or more in tune with each other than my Ronny and me. In our minds, we were already married. My Christmas present to Ron this year was to change my last name to Scalise, which I did last Tuesday. I will now carry his heart in my heart and his name proudly for the rest of my life. Ron’s greatest worry these past few months has been about sending his children to college. I can’t tell you how often he spoke of it. When Kevin told me that I needed to have a response to all of you who were asking what you could do, my first thought was what would put him most at peace (or maybe it was him poking around in my brain – don’t even begin to think that’s going to stop for all of us.). The Ron Scalise Memorial Fund will ensure that Rosario (16), R.J. (11), and Brenna (10), will all have the opportunity to be as successful as their Dad. As I said earlier, I cannot begin to express my deepest gratitude for the immediate and generous response to this request. I am indeed overwhelmed, and so grateful that they will be taken care of. Ron loved his kids more than life itself. You are all giving him more than I could ever explain. Thanks again to Kevin for putting the wheels immediately in motion and to Kurt for arranging the fund itself. To all of you who work with ESPN or related businesses, I implore you to please be careful in your day-to-day traveling. We never think an accident will happen to us. Work hard, but rest just as much. Take care of yourselves and slow down. I know that Ron has left many, many stunned and hurting friends and loved ones in his wake. We have all truly lost a great man and an amazing talent. Ron had many segments in his life and he shared a different talent and passion in each one. And, in each one he left devastated friends and loved ones. To all of you I can only offer what’s left of my heart (which isn’t much). We will all mourn together and forever hold in our hearts what he personally brought to each and every one of us. Please join us on Wednesday the 26th to celebrate the life of Ron Scalise.
The last thing Ron said to me Tuesday as he left my retirement party was, "I'm so glad I came tonight." Like many of you my memories and association with Ron goes back to our days at HCC where as he said Tuesday, he started as A-2 to Bob Dixon and became the regular A-1, doing show after show there for years. Ron always seemed to take joy from his work no matter what the show and pleasure in being with thoes with whom he worked. His enthusiasm for the world of audio whether he was in the office or on location was real. He couldn't get enough of it. That enthusiam was truely infectious. Ron will be missed so much as a beautiful person, a good friend to so many and an unmeasurable contribuitor to what he made an art...audio in sports television. Thanks so much Ronny. Ron, I'm so gald you came Tuesday and I'm so glad I knew you.
I knew Ron when I was an A1 for ESPN in Bristol, and was curious as to how circle surround worked. I had several opportunities to ask him questions and he was always eager to share his knowledge. His reputation as a leader in the industry was solid and I was very saddened by this news. I wish the family my best and agree with the previous posts...don't forget to keep in touch with people you care about!!!!! Best...Alex
I drove…I don’t know…tens of thousands of miles with with Ronny in the early 80s. Up and down the Mass Pike…..10 hours on the NY northway thru a blizzard so we could get home for Easter morning. He knew a few Polish phrases…..I tried to teach him how to swear properly in that language. In the 90s and on we traveled in different circles but if we were within a hundred feet of each other we’d make the effort to come over and exchange some bizarre phrase that meant something long ago. It’d make both of us laugh. I wish I could swap one more line with you Ron.
I learned about Audio in College and the old school term "MOS" used on film scripts:
The "Mit out Sound" legend came of the early directors in Hollywood, whose first language was German, had trouble with saying, "we are recording this scene "without sound" and the words came out "We are recording this scene mitout sound. Because of this word corruption, MOS means "without sound" and is still used today.
I was flying home tonight and looked out on a calm winter night and said a prayer for Ron's family. For some odd reason, I remembered learning about MOS and my heart ached as I felt the term now means "Mitout Scalise."
It did bring a faint smile to my face as I felt he would have laughed at my observation and then remembered that everytime I passed Ron at the X games, he always had a smile on his face and said Hi to me, even though I did not know him that well. I will always remember his friendly demeanor and sense of humour...
Ron was a friend to everyone he met. I was working at the ESPN X games base hotel in Aspen as the chef when I first met Ron. We were told in advance that ESPN would be bringing some audio equipment and set it up for us. Ron was the guy. He set it all up and made sure every detail was perfect. At the time I had no idea how brillant he was. I am honored to have had Ron as my personal TV repairman and friend. For the next six games and fall meetings it was my pleasure to get to know Ron and through him his family. I am saddend to know that Ron is gone. I will never forget him or his smile. Ron is loved.
Ron and I go back to Junior High. There was abunch of us so called musicians that hung out and played together. One thing was for sure, Ron was the real deal. We new he took formal lessons and could read music. After high school we worked together at Fred Locke Stereo. Ron quickly went from a repairman to the service manager in no time. From there the next thing we knew he was working as an owner/engineer at The 19 Recording Studio. I again had the pleasure of working with Ronnie watching him work his magic in the control room. There he and fellow owner Jonathan Freed were recording all of Ct's. hottest acts both on and off premise. Ron was always involved in being on the cutting edge. The 19 R.S. was the first 24 track mobile studio and guess who built it? Next thing we knew Ron was free lancing as an enginer for ESPN and the rest is history. 14 Emmy awards....14. Last Sunday I caught up to Ron on the phone while he was shopping at BestBuy. We talked for bout 20 minutes.
Ron, I'll never forget that call and all the memories I have. You always amazed me with your never ending talent.
Now one thing is for sure: Everyone will hear the angels sing, because Ron's been put in charge of the audio
Like many of you, I first met RonnieRon working on ESPN racing in the ‘80’s; but I really got to know Ron well as both a professional and a friend when I joined the crew of what was known back then as the NFL on ESPN. That show grew and evolved into what is now Monday Night Football and Ronnie’s guidance during that growth was invaluable. Ron stayed connected to the show even after the extremely talented Scott Pray took over the mixing desk, Ron still usually came out several times during the season to consult and kibbutz.
Ronnie and I had many laughs together over the years, and I learned a lot about audio and about life spending time with him.
The great outpouring of love and support for Ron, Dawn and the whole Scalise family doesn’t surprise me one bit..he was truly well thought of by all of his colleagues and he will be sorely missed. His legacy will continue with every show that airs on ESPN…but his spirit will live on in the heart of everyone whose life he touched.
from being a eic at ESPN during the fun times at the HCC and Nascar in the 90's, to being a freelancer at multiple X games and multiple ESPN extravaganzas, to being an eic at GCV during the startup of SRS, Ron was never far from any audio questions I encountered. It was always interesting to have Ron explain some new audio doodad that he said was going to revolutionize TV audio. It always brought a smile to my inner self to see someone who gave a damn about what came out of my TV's 3" speaker
I only had the privilege to know/work with Ron for this past year. It takes someone very special to make such an impact on a persons life in such a short time. Ron was a great boss, I never felt as his "employee" but a friend. Ron will always be with me, I just hope I can make him proud and accomplish half of what Ron was able to in my life and career.
I am quite moved as I read these comments remembering Ron. I realize the Ron I knew is the Ron you knew and we share a great loss.
Ron was always different going way back to the old days. He was the first guy I knew to start his own business ( wretched sound co) when most of us were still delivering newspapers, skipping school or hitchhiking to California to check out the 'scene'.
His innate talents and a passion for excellence propelled him through many endeavors which leave a positive mark on our lives today.
I'm also thinking of Ron's parents as he was the perfect combination of Randy and Catherine. Ambitious, talented, funny on the Randy side and caring and sensitive from Catherine's influence.
The living legacy that Ron leaves us with is inspiration. The inspiration of life, love and hope that dwells within all of us. Once in a while someone comes along and shines a light on these things in our lives, which Ronny certainly did in many ways.
My heart, love and support go out to all of Ron's friends and family most especially his children and his parents.
I will miss my friend Ron more than I can say, but what I can say is that my life is remarkably better for having known Ron and I will carry on remembering him in my heart.
I attended Ron's memorial service last night and I saw faces and friends that I haven't seen in years. It was Ron's last gift to us to bring us together like that. I started out my freelance career at the Hartford Civic Center and the old Boston Garden and Ron was in the trenches with us-the trucks were rudimentary and the Boston Garden was a challenge (I used to build his booth in the old Garden-the camera guys had to pitch in) but we were young and eager and learning... I only saw Ron in the last couple of years at the X Games-I would give him grief about being management but the conversation would always turn to a much more innocent time...I would see him at a bar sometime and we would call each other friend and we would go on.. I cannot speak of his expertise-being a camera guy-but my friend and neighbor and his ex-business partner called him a genius in his eulogy and that's good enough for me.. I only know this-that we are losing members of our circle (here's to you Woody) and three children have lost their father.. Hold the ones you love close and treat everyone you work with with respect and realize how fragile all this is...
(Several friends who were at Ron's memorial service Wednesday have asked me to leave the text of my eulogy to Ron on this blog, so here it is. My heart is aching terribly today while I am at work in Houston, and I send heartfelt hugs to any of you who may be feeling similarly...)
"Ronny was the closest thing to a brother that I ever had. His sudden departure leaves a gaping hole in my life that I could never have imagined, and that I will struggle with daily, probably forever.
I met Ronny 35 years ago when I moved to Connecticut. We became best of friends and then business partners, and owned a recording studio together until the late 80’s. After closing the studio doors, we both pursued the television sound engineering business, together and separately.
I have countless memories of my friend and brother, our friend and brother. As you all know, if you are here today, that to have known Ronny was to be strongly affected by him, and to have known Ronny really well for a really long time meant that, in many ways, your life would never be the same.
Ron was a mentor in the finest sense of the word to a pretty amazing number of people. His confidence, and the way that he looked at life would often help you to see your own life a little more clearly. Ron’s legendary and graceful mastery of the art of sound mixing was and always will be nothing short of genius, and those of us who were fortunate enough to work closely with him have been forever enlightened by his passionate and relentless spirit of excellence. As it has been said before, you don’t always agree with Ronny or his ideas. However, whether or not you agree, Ron always pushed all of the buttons, all of the time, and made you think in new ways that made you a better artist, a better engineer, a better thinker.
For many of us in the sound business, Ronny was the person who saw us perhaps more clearly than we saw ourselves, saw our passion and our talent and interest, and guided us toward opportunities that have defined our careers, and given us the lives we have today.
As a friend, to be in Ronny’s company was where you wanted to be. His warmth, his honesty, his wonderful intelligence, his intensity, and his unique crazy humor always lifted you up, made you laugh and think, and made you feel great.
Ronny’s greatest purpose and love was his family, his children, and his loved ones. To you I would like to say, above all, thank you and bless you for sharing so much of Ron with all of the rest of us. We will carry him with us forever, and join you in honoring his memory and reaching for his many goals.
We all shared Ronny all of these years with the dozens of other things, people, places, jobs, projects, ideas, and stuff that kept him moving like a hummingbird, always going to and fro. Each time he landed by you was a blessing. Ron has blessed all of us with his passion, his spirit, his wit, his vision. We shall count those blessings, keep his visions inside as inspiration, and hold Ronny in our hearts forever. I know he would like that."
I met Ron back in 1966. We both had many things in common; our passionate for music; we both wanted to be the next Lennon and McCartney; we both played guitars and sang. As time went by Ron would play keyboards and I would play guitar. We played down on Newington Green for all our friends. Months went by when we decided to start a band, as many did. We acquired a drummer, bass player and a lead guitarist and called ourselves “The Younger Generation.” Being only 15 years old, Ron’s dad Randy worked for Channel 3 as an audio engineer and gave us the opportunity to record in the studio at Channel 3. We recorded several songs only to find out afterwards we would play two of the songs on the Brad Davis Show. What a trip…….I never forgot that moment and neither did Ron. A couple of weeks later Brad Davis liked us so much he asked us if we would like to open up for “The Wildweeds” (which was a great Connecticut band back then) at Al Andersons Hometown Centennial in Windsor CT. Boy, were we nervous, but all went well. From time to time after that we played a few more gigs but didn’t get where we wanted to be. Fortunately we were introduced to Frank Cascone, a singer in another Connecticut band called the “Dam Yankees.” He became our manager and worked up arrangements for us to play. We did pretty well for several months until our bass player quit and the rest of the guys lost interest. Needless to say Ron and I went on to record music on his first ‘reel to reel tape recorder’, which was a Woollensak. He would bounce different tracks we recorded and somehow combine them to make a complete song. Amazing!!! There and then is when I realized he had something special about him. Ron and I continued to record this way until he surprised me one day by purchasing an eight-track recorder. We were truly in heaven… (little did I know the best was yet to come)….Ron continued in all types of electronics and started working for Fred Locke Stereo where he went on to be service manager. I remember several times after hours, he would call me full of excitement and say “hey Bob come down tonight I have some great stuff down here to do some of our songs”. We had nothing but fun!!!! After the Fred Locke thing Ron opened his own business call Wretched Sound. He continued to follow his dreams and opened a recording studio with his partner Jonathan Freed and called it the “Nineteen.” Spending almost every Friday night there, we would record to wee hours of the morning on a 16 Track machine. I was astounded how he was able to master that thing. I asked him several times to teach me, he tried but after a while I said “Forget it you just do it!” It wasn’t as easy as Ronnie made it look! Down the road apiece the studio, “Nineteen” in Hartford was not acceptable to Ron nor Jon anymore, so they purchased a building in S. Glastonbury and renovated it to their specifications. It was elegant, chaming, and peaceful. A place any musician would appreciate. Now when I told earlier about bigger and better things yet to come…… THIS WAS IT…… I knew then Ron was on his way stardom. He recorded names like GRAYSON HUGH, EIGHT TO THE BAR, BILLY HOLLOMAN, and MELBA MOORE only to name a few of the many. Oh, by the way did I mention from their 16 track machine they purchased a 24 track from Florida that the Bee Gee’s actually recorded on………I actually remember we got together one Friday night and decided to do (Live and Let Die) and we did, but let me tell how it all went down……..Bobby Gatson, drummer/owner of Creative music came to the studio that day while I was at work. Bobby was there to demonstrate a new electronic drum set. Ron was in the control room while Bobby was in the studio area. Ron then instructed Bobby to play certain beats and stop then other beats then stop and so on and so on………Bobby had no clue of what he was being asked to do but Ron did... He was humming the song in his mind and telling Bobby to play them. After Bobby had left, a few hours later I came to the studio. We put a couple of tracks down and then said to Ron “who are we going to get to put the drum track down” he said “Bobby Gatson” I said.” Really he’s coming down”. Ron said “no but listen” He then sorted out the tracks Bobby had played, mixed them all around added them to our tracks in the proper places and bingo our song had drums……..I just shook my head in amazement. I still think to this day Bobby has no clue he had played in our song. We maintained this kind of thing for years getting together having fun. Then as years went by, Ron started working free lance for ESPN. Months later the Nineteen had closed, but Ron assured me that we would be able to do what he and I loved most….
And he did……..He built a home in Durham with a separate two-car garage with a loft up top. And guess what was up in loft? Right. A studio. We enjoyed this for years but as time went by there were certain voids in both of lives that would slow down our getting together as often. We still called each other reminiscing old times and getting together but things were said but never done. It has now been about two years since we had talked to each other and about two weeks before his death I called him to see how he was doing. He was so happy to hear from me and kept on saying how it has been to long for us not getting together and he would make a point of doing it soon……He also said we will definitely play our songs together once again .That would make for a dream come true. As in a John Lennon song “the dream is over”…………
This is only a fraction of my life with Ron but I know it will remain in my memory forever and ever….. Love, Bob (Spanman)
I met Ron in the late 80's when i started freelanceing with ESPN. Ron was like an audio god to a young engineer from TN. Whenever I had chance after my work was done and Ron had a break I was pickin' his brain. He was one of the golden few who didn't keep their secrets to themselves. He wanted you to learn. Tell you everything? No. But enough to get you started and thinking in your own. He pushed you as an A-2 to not just make it work reliably. but to make it sound like it never sounded before. He was a mentor to me unknowingly and helped me immensely so that I was able to progress to A-1 myself. I hadn't seen or talked with Ron since the 90's when I stopped freelanceing to stay at home with my kids. This week a fellow freelancer originally from here at home called and gave me the sad news. I felt like I had been kicked in the chest. I'm now a full-time Firefighter/EMT and deal with this daily. But it should never be your friends. I regret not staying in touch with Ron. He WAS by the definition, "A Real Genius"
I knew Ron for many years and can truly say it was an honor working for him, and with him.... He always strived to be the best but being the best was never good enough... there was always something that could make things sound a little "sweeter". Or make the broadcast a little better. It was this quest for perfection which brought out the best in everyone he was around and made audio crews try harder and harder to do things the right way and to try new ideas to make things better. I was looking so forward to my 6th season of doing Winter and Summer X. But now it's going to be very different knowing there won't be any more of "Ronnie's meetings". A very empty feeling. I'm gonna miss the "What's up Fultzie , you all good"? Ron gave me many opportunites and it is much appreciated. I think I can speak for all of the A1's and A2's out there when I say a legend is gone, but will never be forgotten. He will be missed. peace, brother.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family.
It comes with great sadness that I am writing this letter during this difficult time. My name is Victor Victoria. I am truly a testament to the kind of person Ron Scalise was, giving , sharing, compassionate, and passionate. I became all of those things in this industry because Ron Salise taught me the right way to approach this crazy industry we call TV. If it were not for him taking a chance with this big Mexican kid, right out of college, I probably would not have enjoyed the success in this business that I have had. He was truly my mentor. I was passionate about sports, having played all my life and he was very passionate about audio. Thus with our relationship, I became a very passionate sports guy that was very much interested in the sounds of the game. He always had a very enthusiastic demeanor about him that rubbed off on me. I also know that aside from his passion at work, his passion was his family. Although I have never met Brenna, RJ, or Rosario, I have heard numerous stories about all of you since you were born. And to the parents of Ron Scalise, I can tell you that it is a great pleasure, having spent better than twenty years with your son. Through this all I cannot think of a better decision that I made in my life but to become a graduate of the Scalise Academy. I love you Ron Scalise. Sincerely, Victor Victoria
....Recording the narration & music and miniature ukulele songs for "The Mysterious Hawaiian" up at the original "Nineteen", home of mellotrons and gypsy feasts, where I would later live, on Whitney Street, in Hartford...laughing til we fell down...recording the crickets in the bushes at night at the South Glastonbury studio for my song "In The Hour Of The Loon"; crickets never sounded so good....filming "Balboa" on the golf courses of Avon & the streets of Hartford....laughing til we fell down...recording my Barry White impersonation tune "Love On A Song" (the gunshot was a piece of plywood slapped on the floor)..laughing til we dropped...screaming fake French cursewords into the microphone while recording a lead vocal and giving him fits of laughter...endlessly creating characters for our amusement, such as "Midge", the peeping tom creature, half- human, half-soul singer ...bestowing immortal nicknames on people, reverbs, animals & local bands.....performing live countless times with him at the sound helm - the tapes of which I still listen to with admiration for his perfect sound captures.... putting together the slide show for the premier of "Bluewhite", developing prints of my cat in the Blizzzard of '78 in his darkroom...hysterically satirizing all the voices of the street people of our region, such as Tom Carvel, Ruby Vine & various streetwalking "actrixes".... laughing, laughing, laughing....there are so many memories of feverish creative collaboration in various studios & clubs & outdoor festivals and so many of my songs that would never have existed at all were it not for him....and when I think of these times, and of him, I laugh til I cry. He was the funniest, the most gifted. He was the best.
I can't believe how sad I am about this and that has taken this long for me to believe and respond. I've known Ron since I came into this industry over 2o years ago. He has been both a mentor and a friend and I, like Peter and everyone choose to celebrate his life and memories. Ron touched many people alond the way and it is very eveident from the effect this tragedy has had on everyone. He loved his work, but also loved to share his knowledge to others. I was one of the lucky ones to have the oppotunity to learn and share that knowledge. But it not only the was the way he loved his work and wanted to teach oothers, but the type of person he was. He was genuine and caring and I feel lucky to have been a friend and I will never forget him.Dawn, I never met you, but I think it is wonderful whta you are doing in his memory and I want to express my gratitude and codolences to you and also to his children. I will always work to do well with Ron in my work toward making people hear like they were there. Thanks Ron, I'll never forget you.
Since the day I got the word of this tragic event, I've been trying to put my thoughts together of what to say about this wonderful man. He was my mentor and friend. He gave me the opportunities to get me where I am today as a female audio professional in a male dominated industry. I met Ron for the first time in the early 80's when I was a staff crewer at ESPN when came in looking for a job. He claims I threw his resume in the trash (which I know I didn't)and would tease me about it all the time. After than I only saw him occasionally until he joined the X games family and we immediately hit it off. I was always surprised by his calls asking for my thoughts on various audio subjects surrounding events where I was involved and was never impatient with me when I would ask questions on subjects I didn't understand. This Winter's X Games will truly be difficult for all of us. I will miss our morning trips to Starbucks and his calls while I am up on the mountain at 8 at night freezing wondering why I wasn't at the bar. There will be a huge hole in my heart where he has a place. I will miss him dearly.
The following is a letter to all from Dawn, I apologize for waiting to post it but this past week has been incredibly difficult, for the family and myself as the reality of it all has set in, and the shock has been replaced by grief, and loneliness. I still can't believe it's real and I keep waiting for his call which isn't coming. My life is still so empty and I have a void which will remain with me, probably till the end. Kevin
Today it has been one week since Ron was taken from us. I’m sitting here, now alone, still in shock from it all. This week has been a nightmare, yet I have been very consoled by the outpouring of affection that you have all showed for Ronny, myself, the kids, the family and Kevin. Ron and I shared so many things together. We loved our combined four children very much, we discussed his work constantly and I helped him as much as I could with it (I was the one at home calling him during X to tell him the center speaker was out or the lip sync was off), we had the same ideals, the same beliefs, the same fears and concerns and the same dreams for our future together. We loved music and we played together often. I think Ron’s abilities at the piano were what amazed me the most. He made a piano touch you inside. Our neighbors loved the summer days when the windows were open and they could enjoy what he would call his ‘incapable playing’. Before the memorial on Wednesday, Kevin Cleary and I sat while Grayson Hugh played the two songs that were to be played during the service so we could hear them once and hopefully not be hit so hard by them during the service (which didn’t work). Besides the music itself, what hurt me the most was to watch Grayson’s hands on the keyboard. He played exactly like Ronny, and his hands looked exactly the same as Ron’s did when he played. Actually, Ronny would tell you that Ron’s hands looked like Grayson’s, since he learned his style from him. My point to this story is that I have always believed that each person is a collection of the qualities of the people that they meet along their travels on Earth. We usually pick up the best qualities that we admire from each person who we encounter. Some affect us and teach us more than others do. Sometimes we even become exactly like that emulated person in many ways. Ron had Grayson’s piano playing hands. Ron bit the inside of his cheek like his sister used to. Ron had his Dad’s smile. He learned his patience from his children… and I also know that each one of you in some small or large way also contributed to the powerhouse who was Ron Scalise. Conversely, I know that he left a part of himself with all of you. I have heard so many stories of how he helped you, taught you, took you under his wing, always had a kind word or made you laugh. I know you’re all hurting, but have some peace in knowing he is still with you all. You have all taken some quality of his with you and you will keep him alive by using those qualities. Thank you all so much for your response to the fund for his children. It was the first thing I could think of that would put Ron at peace. Your kindness and concern is overwhelming. As I said before, this fund will ensure that they have the chance to become as successful and as great as their Dad. I promise to keep you all posted on the kids progress. They are your children now too. I expect all of you to now take even extra care in your travels – whether miles from the office or home or across the country. Please hold your loved ones close to you – tell them often that you love them. Ron was good at that. Also, take care of each other on the road. To all of Ron’s audio guys – keep it big and keep it loud (even if it’s golf) He will be listening.
I have asked Chris Fichera to take some of Ron’s ashes to England with him in March where he will spread them across Abbey Road. He will then take some to Italy where Ron and I were to be married. Meanwhile, Ron’s parents and I will be planning for a place in Connecticut where he can rest near his sister, Claire. I will let you all know where this will be so you may visit.
Thank you all.
“The dream is over – what can I say? The dream is over – yesterday I was the dreamweaver… And now I’m reborn And so dear friends… You’ll have to carry on The dream is over.”
Ron was working in the audio booth at Limerock back in '1987 when I was a utility working my way up the ESPN freelance chain. His ability to see into people and empathize with their situations was unmatched and his enthusiasm was always part of the game he brought to live television.
I was fortunate enough to share some thoughts with Ron this past November in Homestead. Here was somebody almost everybody I know in the business looked up to telling me how well things were going for him at ESPN. The gist of the conversation covered past memories and the opportunities ahead now that NASCAR was back where it belonged.
The ESPN family has many branches and Ron was especially adept at helping others grow out from that base. Ron's patience and tutelage were a rare gift in the technical world. Anyone who interfaced with the man could attest to this great talent and charm.
Ron and I were not only band mates (the poison toads) but very good friends. I have been in a total state of shock ever since I heard the mind blowing life altering news. I still to this day have a hard time accepting that my good friend "scalotchu" is not here. I have wanted to post something here since the site went up, but frankly I just did not know what to say. There is not any hour in any day that I do not think about Rons snicker and that awesome smile. There is definately a part of me that is gone for ever. The only thing that gets close to making me feel OK is knowing he is up there jamming with some pretty awesome cats. I can't waite to see him again on the other side. Ron I love you and miss you.
32 comments:
I first worked with Ron back in the early 1980's. We were part a group of new freelancers in New England that was put on the map because of ESPN starting up. I saw him when he was an A2 and before too long he was mixing as an A1. I worked with him on all those Hartford Whalers games. His obvious skills then lead him to larger packages with ESPN. In no time he went from working local shows in the northeast to major broadcasts all over the country. Everyone in the biz knew Ron Scalise. My main point is that I knew Ron for a LONG time. The longer I know someone, the more meaningful and cherished the friendship is. I could just stand there with Ron and say nothing, but know that each of us knew we shared the bond of longevity. I have such respect for Ron and will miss him so much. A part of me, as well as a part of all who knew him is missing now. But everytime I hear the roar of a NASCAR engine, the scraping of a skateboard on some coping, or the ding of a football hitting a goalpost, I will always think of him, my friend and colleague for a LONG time. Thanks Ron.
I have also known Ron for a long time. As the 17 year-old smart-assed son of the boss, I was dumped on Ron as his utility for an early ESPN golf event. I promptly ran his anvil-case/toolbox over with a golf cart and that began a friendship that has lasted better than 25 years.
We had our car stolen at a Benihanaa's in Montreal... with ALL of our stuff in it. There was the close call with dinosaurs at Watkins Glen and a million laughs in between, from one racr track to another.
I saw him 2 weeks ago at the SVG meetings in NY where we picked up as we always did...in the most nasel of radio-modified-distorted voices..."hello RON?"
I'll miss you, buddy...
Joe Commare, "Jr"
I was trying to think when was the first time I met Ron. I hate to say that I don't remember. It was back in those busy early 80's days when you hardly had time to remember what city you were in, let alone anything else. During that time I was an EIC, or "Truck Guy" for ESPN. Really, as an EIC, the first time you really noticed a freelancer was when they caused trouble and made your life harder. Of course, Ron was never that guy.
I had years of great fun working with Ron, and a lot of that on the NASCAR circuit. I'd be down in the pits taking care of the RF mics and cameras and pretty much isolated from the rest of the show. Regardless of how busy the show was or how deep he was into the mix, he'd always be the guy you knew you could count on at the other end of the radio. Most of the time he was my lifeline when I needed help.
There's no good reason for Ron to be gone. If there is one thing we can take away from this horrible tragedy, it's to remind us to stay in touch with each other and not let too much time go past between some kind of contact.
i just saw ron recently,he said he was loving life..and things were great. he really had found his niche at ESPN.
ya know it's funny how you remember things that people say many years ago. at least once a week,i think of ron after i have shave in the morning. back in the days after a nascar race after i had just showered and shaved as fast as i could and raced down to the hotel bar, ronnie would be the first one there usually with bill fuchs close behind..i'd say "hey ronnie whats up?" he'd look at me and say, "damn ted, you clean up nice" and i'd say "ronnie it's not me, it's the company i keep" and we'd clink glasses and kick em back. ronnie, here's to you brother
...TEDDY
mess here i have know ron for about12 years at every event we worked togeether he as an audio man and me as a videoman wold stop whatever we were doing would shake hands talk about family and friends and no matter how bad things would be going in a show he would make you feel good and put a a smile on your face i will miss him truley heres to you ron
Rossario, RJ, and Brenna: When some time has passed, you will read countless letters about what a creative genius your father was. Passion and creativity made him tick. However, I would just like you to know that your Dad's best qualities from my stand point were, compassion and composure. He took the time to consider co-workers opinions, and he always kept his cool in the audio booth when the Producers and Directors lost theirs. (I know because I was the first ESPN Motorsports Producer)
Your father knew from the beginning of his professional career that the way to accomplish great things was to have enthusiasm and to always bring a "can-do" attitude to everything he did. I so appreciated that spirit. That spirit will live on in you as well.
Accomplishments and trophies are nice, but I'll remember your Dad as someone I just liked being around. That is perhaps the best legacy of all.
I really liked Ron Scalise. With deepest sympathy,
Terry Lingner
I'm so proud to have know, worked with, learned from, and laughed with Ron. It's been too many years to count, but I'm also proud we called each other "friend". If I take one thing from his passing, it's that in this crazy business the one thing that shines most and means most is each of you, my colleagues and friends. Peace to Ron. Love to his wonderful family; he was SO proud of ALL of you.
Peace to all of you as well.
Thank you for the opportunity to post this comment.
Word started to circulate through the sports TV community on Friday morning. One of ESPN's best known "crew guys" had lost his life late Thursday night in a single car accident on a Connecticut highway.
Ron Scalise was only 54 years old. In his decades of hard work on the road, Scalise had become an audio legend. As we said many times this season, the ESPN audio of the NASCAR races was outstanding. It had to be, if Ron was in charge.
Over the years, Scalise had moved-on to become what many consider the "audio guru" of sports television. He wanted to educate both the industry and the public on the incredible changes taking place in the audio side of the television world. The technical innovations that he helped bring to TV sports coverage will never be forgotten.
NASCAR fans may remember during the "old" ESPN days when Ron pushed the "natural sound" from the cars right-up against the announcers voices. Even though the announcers were actually high-up in an air conditioned booth, Ron still made them "talk over" the real sound of the race. It made all the difference in the world.
Remember loudly hearing your first "air gun" on a pit stop? How about the tires of a car squealing as it left pit road? When a car spun, hit the wall and you actually heard it hit...at home. That was Ron.
Few people in the sports TV business had the single-minded focus of Ron Scalise. As a part of his drive, he met and befriended many young people who were willing to work hard and learn the audio side of the business. One outstanding testament to Ron's influence can be read by clicking here for Frenchy's blog.
Ron influenced the importance of audio in almost every sports telecast, and he was able to do it because ESPN was on-the-air every day for 24 hours. As the network grew, Ron was able to pass along his belief that a strong natural sound "bed" should be a vital part of every sports event. Sports TV viewers grew to expect that if they saw it, they should be able to hear it.
In the middle of a screaming crowd at a Duke vs. Carolina game, ESPN viewers could hear the players sneakers squeaking on the floor under the basket. When Tony Hawk or Saun White tipped slowly off the lip and headed down the "vert ramp" at lightning speed, all four wheels of that skateboard made their way right into your home.
That was the whole idea. While the announcers told you about the action, and the cameras showed it to you, there was only one way to make it real. That was to hear it.
In my ESPN NASCAR days, it was Ron Scalise at one analog audio board behind a glass window mixing the entire race by hand. He sat in the same part of the TV truck as the Producer, Director, Technical Director, Graphics Operator, Assistant Producer, and Associate Director. It made for cozy confines, and rather stimulating conversation.
Decades later, Scalise was moderating seminars on how Digital Dolby Surround Sound should be used in major sports venues. His success was due to hard work and seemingly endless dedication to his cause. We can only hope that the generation of audio mixers influenced by Ron will keep his memory alive by passing on his passion for using audio to bring the event right into the viewer's home.
Ron Scalise won 14 National Emmy Awards and called Kenmore, NY his home. The sports TV world will go on, but it will never be the same.
John Daly
ESPN 1980-89
I cannot remember when I first met Ron. I feel like I have known him forever. Ron was that kind of guy a friend to all and always willing to help another out.
Ron will be missed and remembered for a long time. I just know he will be critiquing our mixes from a better place.
Thanks for your many gifts and especially for your friendship.
Sam Abousamra(ABADABA)
Dawn has written this as a response to the tremendous amount of LOVE and incredible outpouring of support from everyone. We went to see Ron and say goodbye to him today with his kids and his Mom and Dad. Words can't describe how incredibly difficult this was and the amount of strength it took for us to get through it can only have come from knowing that all of you are there behind us. I can't say how much all the support and prayers have helped this incredibly strong family, I hope that you all know how much it truly means that your thoughts and prayers have managed to carry us all through what has to be the most difficult thing any of us should ever have to face. I loved Ron as many of you did and am honored to be able to offer what little I can to help out his amazing family. He will never be forgotten. I personally will never forget all the support and kindness that everyone has shown to Ron's family and to me through out all of this and I want to thank you all from the bottom of my incredibly sad heart.
Kevin
It is hard for me to even begin to express my gratitude for the outpouring of affection that you have all showed after this heart wrenching blow to our family this week. I knew my Ronny worked with many, many people and I have heard each and every one of your names at least once at one time or another, but I obviously never, ever imagined the actual impact he made.
My greatest thankfulness is for Kevin Cleary who, after my 5:00 AM call to him after the police left our house on Friday morning, immediately boarded a plane for Connecticut. He, along with my oldest and dearest friend Mary Jo, have been by my side and have literally held me up throughout this entire nightmare so far. They have both been angels for me, for Ronny’s children and his entire family. I know it has been so physically and emotionally exhausting for both of them. Kevin has especially unselfishly put my and our family’s needs in front of his own these past few days while he is grieving nearly as much as the kids and I are. Right now he is asleep on the couch in the next room with his computer on his lap and his phone in his hand; neither of which have been silent for now 67 hours.
Ron was my best friend, my confidant and the love of my life. I now understand how people can die from a broken heart. I shared Ron with his ever-demanding career and with all of you which made our life together extremely unconventional, as many of you can understand. However, two people could not have been more in love or more in tune with each other than my Ronny and me. In our minds, we were already married. My Christmas present to Ron this year was to change my last name to Scalise, which I did last Tuesday. I will now carry his heart in my heart and his name proudly for the rest of my life.
Ron’s greatest worry these past few months has been about sending his children to college. I can’t tell you how often he spoke of it. When Kevin told me that I needed to have a response to all of you who were asking what you could do, my first thought was what would put him most at peace (or maybe it was him poking around in my brain – don’t even begin to think that’s going to stop for all of us.).
The Ron Scalise Memorial Fund will ensure that Rosario (16), R.J. (11), and Brenna (10), will all have the opportunity to be as successful as their Dad. As I said earlier, I cannot begin to express my deepest gratitude for the immediate and generous response to this request. I am indeed overwhelmed, and so grateful that they will be taken care of. Ron loved his kids more than life itself. You are all giving him more than I could ever explain. Thanks again to Kevin for putting the wheels immediately in motion and to Kurt for arranging the fund itself.
To all of you who work with ESPN or related businesses, I implore you to please be careful in your day-to-day traveling. We never think an accident will happen to us. Work hard, but rest just as much. Take care of yourselves and slow down.
I know that Ron has left many, many stunned and hurting friends and loved ones in his wake. We have all truly lost a great man and an amazing talent. Ron had many segments in his life and he shared a different talent and passion in each one. And, in each one he
left devastated friends and loved ones. To all of you I can only offer what’s left of my heart (which isn’t much). We will all mourn together and forever hold in our hearts what he personally brought to each and every one of us.
Please join us on Wednesday the 26th to celebrate the life of Ron Scalise.
With love,
Dawn Trainor-Scalise
The last thing Ron said to me Tuesday as he left my retirement party was, "I'm so glad I came tonight." Like many of you my memories and association with Ron goes back to our days at HCC where as he said Tuesday, he started as A-2 to Bob Dixon and became the regular A-1, doing show after show there for years. Ron always seemed to take joy from his work no matter what the show and pleasure in being with thoes with whom he worked. His enthusiasm for the world of audio whether he was in the office or on location was real. He couldn't get enough of it. That enthusiam was truely infectious. Ron will be missed so much as a beautiful person, a good friend to so many and an unmeasurable contribuitor to what he made an art...audio in sports television.
Thanks so much Ronny.
Ron, I'm so gald you came Tuesday and I'm so glad I knew you.
I knew Ron when I was an A1 for ESPN in Bristol, and was curious as to how circle surround worked. I had several opportunities to ask him questions and he was always eager to share his knowledge. His reputation as a leader in the industry was solid and I was very saddened by this news. I wish the family my best and agree with the previous posts...don't forget to keep in touch with people you care about!!!!! Best...Alex
I drove…I don’t know…tens of thousands of miles with with Ronny in the early 80s. Up and down the Mass Pike…..10 hours on the NY northway thru a blizzard so we could get home for Easter morning. He knew a few Polish phrases…..I tried to teach him how to swear properly in that language. In the 90s and on we traveled in different circles but if we were within a hundred feet of each other we’d make the effort to come over and exchange some bizarre phrase that meant something long ago. It’d make both of us laugh. I wish I could swap one more line with you Ron.
I learned about Audio
in College and the old school term "MOS" used on film scripts:
The "Mit out Sound" legend
came of the early directors in Hollywood, whose first language was German, had trouble with saying, "we are recording this scene "without sound" and the words came out "We are recording this scene mitout sound. Because of this word corruption, MOS means "without sound" and is
still used today.
I was flying home tonight and looked out on a calm winter night and said a prayer for Ron's family. For some odd reason, I remembered learning about MOS and my heart ached as I felt the term now means "Mitout Scalise."
It did bring a faint smile to my face as I felt he would have laughed at my observation and then remembered that everytime I passed Ron at the X games, he always had a smile on his face and said Hi to me, even though I did not know him that well. I will always remember his friendly demeanor and sense of humour...
Cue the Rollout (MOS)
Ron was a friend to everyone he met. I was working at the ESPN X games base hotel in Aspen as the chef when I first met Ron. We were told in advance that ESPN would be bringing some audio equipment and set it up for us. Ron was the guy. He set it all up and made sure every detail was perfect. At the time I had no idea how brillant he was. I am honored to have had Ron as my personal TV repairman and friend.
For the next six games and fall meetings it was my pleasure to get to know Ron and through him his family.
I am saddend to know that Ron is gone. I will never forget him or his smile. Ron is loved.
Ron and I go back to Junior High.
There was abunch of us so called musicians that hung out and played together. One thing was for sure, Ron was the real deal. We new he took formal lessons and could read music. After high school we worked together at Fred Locke Stereo. Ron quickly went from a repairman to the service manager in no time. From there the next thing we knew he was working as an owner/engineer at The 19 Recording Studio. I again had the pleasure of working with Ronnie watching him work his magic in the control room. There he and fellow owner Jonathan Freed were recording all of Ct's. hottest acts both on and off premise. Ron was always involved in being on the cutting edge. The 19 R.S. was the first 24 track mobile studio and guess who built it? Next thing we knew Ron was free lancing as an enginer for ESPN and the rest is history.
14 Emmy awards....14.
Last Sunday I caught up to Ron on the phone while he was shopping at BestBuy. We talked for bout 20 minutes.
Ron, I'll never forget that call and all the memories I have.
You always amazed me with your never ending talent.
Now one thing is for sure:
Everyone will hear the angels sing, because Ron's been put in charge of the audio
Like many of you, I first met RonnieRon working on ESPN racing in the ‘80’s; but I really got to know Ron well as both a professional and a friend when I joined the crew of what was known back then as the NFL on ESPN. That show grew and evolved into what is now Monday Night Football and Ronnie’s guidance during that growth was invaluable. Ron stayed connected to the show even after the extremely talented Scott Pray took over the mixing desk, Ron still usually came out several times during the season to consult and kibbutz.
Ronnie and I had many laughs together over the years, and I learned a lot about audio and about life spending time with him.
The great outpouring of love and support for Ron, Dawn and the whole Scalise family doesn’t surprise me one bit..he was truly well thought of by all of his colleagues and he will be sorely missed. His legacy will continue with every show that airs on ESPN…but his spirit will live on in the heart of everyone whose life he touched.
Godspeed RonnieCrow.
from being a eic at ESPN during the fun times at the HCC and Nascar in the 90's, to being a freelancer at multiple X games and multiple ESPN extravaganzas, to being an eic at GCV during the startup of SRS, Ron was never far from any audio questions I encountered.
It was always interesting to have Ron explain some new audio doodad that he said was going to revolutionize TV audio. It always brought a smile to my inner self to see someone who gave a damn about what came out of my TV's 3" speaker
See you later somewhere Ron.
I only had the privilege to know/work with Ron for this past year. It takes someone very special to make such an impact on a persons life in such a short time. Ron was a great boss, I never felt as his "employee" but a friend. Ron will always be with me, I just hope I can make him proud and accomplish half of what Ron was able to in my life and career.
I am quite moved as I read these comments remembering Ron. I realize the Ron I knew is the Ron you knew and we share a great loss.
Ron was always different going way back to the old days. He was the first guy I knew to start his own business ( wretched sound co) when most of us were still delivering newspapers, skipping school or hitchhiking to California to check out the 'scene'.
His innate talents and a passion for excellence propelled him through many endeavors which leave a positive mark on our lives today.
I'm also thinking of Ron's parents as he was the perfect combination of Randy and Catherine. Ambitious, talented, funny on the Randy side and caring and sensitive from Catherine's influence.
The living legacy that Ron leaves us with is inspiration. The inspiration of life, love and hope that dwells within all of us. Once in a while someone comes along and shines a light on these things in our lives, which Ronny certainly did in many ways.
My heart, love and support go out to all of Ron's friends and family most especially his children and his parents.
I will miss my friend Ron more than I can say, but what I can say is that my life is remarkably better for having known Ron and I will carry on remembering him in my heart.
Peace
I attended Ron's memorial service last night and I saw faces and friends that I haven't seen in years. It was Ron's last gift to us to bring us together like that.
I started out my freelance career at the Hartford Civic Center and the old Boston Garden and Ron was in the trenches with us-the trucks were rudimentary and the Boston Garden was a challenge (I used to build his booth in the old Garden-the camera guys had to pitch in) but we were young and eager and learning...
I only saw Ron in the last couple of years at the X Games-I would give him grief about being management but the conversation would always turn to a much more innocent time...I would see him at a bar sometime and we would call each other friend and we would go on..
I cannot speak of his expertise-being a camera guy-but my friend and neighbor and his ex-business partner called him a genius in his eulogy and that's good enough for me..
I only know this-that we are losing members of our circle (here's to you Woody) and three children have lost their father..
Hold the ones you love close and treat everyone you work with with respect and realize how fragile all this is...
(Several friends who were at Ron's memorial service Wednesday have asked me to leave the text of my eulogy to Ron on this blog, so here it is. My heart is aching terribly today while I am at work in Houston, and I send heartfelt hugs to any of you who may be feeling similarly...)
"Ronny was the closest thing to a brother that I ever had. His sudden departure leaves a gaping hole in my life that I could never have imagined, and that I will struggle with daily, probably forever.
I met Ronny 35 years ago when I moved to Connecticut. We became best of friends and then business partners, and owned a recording studio together until the late 80’s. After closing the studio doors, we both pursued the television sound engineering business, together and separately.
I have countless memories of my friend and brother, our friend and brother.
As you all know, if you are here today, that to have known Ronny was to be strongly affected by him, and to have known Ronny really well for a really long time meant that, in many ways, your life would never be the same.
Ron was a mentor in the finest sense of the word to a pretty amazing number of people. His confidence, and the way that he looked at life would often help you to see your own life a little more clearly. Ron’s legendary and graceful mastery of the art of sound mixing was and always will be nothing short of genius, and those of us who were fortunate enough to work closely with him have been forever enlightened by his passionate and relentless spirit of excellence. As it has been said before, you don’t always agree with Ronny or his ideas. However, whether or not you agree, Ron always pushed all of the buttons, all of the time, and made you think in new ways that made you a better artist, a better engineer, a better thinker.
For many of us in the sound business, Ronny was the person who saw us perhaps more clearly than we saw ourselves, saw our passion and our talent and interest, and guided us toward opportunities that have defined our careers, and given us the lives we have today.
As a friend, to be in Ronny’s company was where you wanted to be. His warmth, his honesty, his wonderful intelligence, his intensity, and his unique crazy humor always lifted you up, made you laugh and think, and made you feel great.
Ronny’s greatest purpose and love was his family, his children, and his loved ones. To you I would like to say, above all, thank you and bless you for sharing so much of Ron with all of the rest of us. We will carry him with us forever, and join you in honoring his memory and reaching for his many goals.
We all shared Ronny all of these years with the dozens of other things, people, places, jobs, projects, ideas, and stuff that kept him moving like a hummingbird, always going to and fro. Each time he landed by you was a blessing. Ron has blessed all of us with his passion, his spirit, his wit, his vision. We shall count those blessings, keep his visions inside as inspiration, and hold Ronny in our hearts forever. I know he would like that."
I met Ron back in 1966. We both had many things in common; our passionate for music; we both wanted to be the next Lennon and McCartney; we both played guitars and sang. As time went by Ron would play keyboards and I would play guitar. We played down on Newington Green for all our friends. Months went by when we decided to start a band, as many did. We acquired a drummer, bass player and a lead guitarist and called ourselves “The Younger Generation.” Being only 15 years old, Ron’s dad Randy worked for Channel 3 as an audio engineer and gave us the opportunity to record in the studio at Channel 3. We recorded several songs only to find out afterwards we would play two of the songs on the Brad Davis Show. What a trip…….I never forgot that moment and neither did Ron. A couple of weeks later Brad Davis liked us so much he asked us if we would like to open up for “The Wildweeds” (which was a great Connecticut band back then) at Al Andersons Hometown Centennial in Windsor CT. Boy, were we nervous, but all went well. From time to time after that we played a few more gigs but didn’t get where we wanted to be. Fortunately we were introduced to Frank Cascone, a singer in another Connecticut band called the “Dam Yankees.” He became our manager and worked up arrangements for us to play. We did pretty well for several months until our bass player quit and the rest of the guys lost interest. Needless to say Ron and I went on to record music on his first ‘reel to reel tape recorder’, which was a Woollensak. He would bounce different tracks we recorded and somehow combine them to make a complete song. Amazing!!! There and then is when I realized he had something special about him. Ron and I continued to record this way until he surprised me one day by purchasing an eight-track recorder. We were truly in heaven… (little did I know the best was yet to come)….Ron continued in all types of electronics and started working for Fred Locke Stereo where he went on to be service manager. I remember several times after hours, he would call me full of excitement and say “hey Bob come down tonight I have some great stuff down here to do some of our songs”. We had nothing but fun!!!! After the Fred Locke thing Ron opened his own business call Wretched Sound. He continued to follow his dreams and opened a recording studio with his partner Jonathan Freed and called it the “Nineteen.” Spending almost every Friday night there, we would record to wee hours of the morning on a 16 Track machine. I was astounded how he was able to master that thing. I asked him several times to teach me, he tried but after a while I said “Forget it you just do it!” It wasn’t as easy as Ronnie made it look! Down the road apiece the studio, “Nineteen” in Hartford was not acceptable to Ron nor Jon anymore, so they purchased a building in S. Glastonbury and renovated it to their specifications. It was elegant, chaming, and peaceful. A place any musician would appreciate. Now when I told earlier about bigger and better things yet to come…… THIS WAS IT…… I knew then Ron was on his way stardom. He recorded names like GRAYSON HUGH, EIGHT TO THE BAR, BILLY HOLLOMAN, and MELBA MOORE only to name a few of the many. Oh, by the way did I mention from their 16 track machine they purchased a 24 track from Florida that the Bee Gee’s actually recorded on………I actually remember we got together one Friday night and decided to do (Live and Let Die) and we did, but let me tell how it all went down……..Bobby Gatson, drummer/owner of Creative music came to the studio that day while I was at work. Bobby was there to demonstrate a new electronic drum set. Ron was in the control room while Bobby was in the studio area. Ron then instructed Bobby to play certain beats and stop then other beats then stop and so on and so on………Bobby had no clue of what he was being asked to do but Ron did... He was humming the song in his mind and telling Bobby to play them. After Bobby had left, a few hours later I came to the studio. We put a couple of tracks down and then said to Ron “who are we going to get to put the drum track down” he said “Bobby Gatson” I said.” Really he’s coming down”. Ron said “no but listen” He then sorted out the tracks Bobby had played, mixed them all around added them to our tracks in the proper places and bingo our song had drums……..I just shook my head in amazement. I still think to this day Bobby has no clue he had played in our song. We maintained this kind of thing for years getting together having fun. Then as years went by, Ron started working free lance for ESPN. Months later the Nineteen had closed, but Ron assured me that we would be able to do what he and I loved most….
And he did……..He built a home in Durham with a separate two-car garage with a loft up top. And guess what was up in loft? Right. A studio. We enjoyed this for years but as time went by there were certain voids in both of lives that would slow down our getting together as often. We still called each other reminiscing old times and getting together but things were said but never done. It has now been about two years since we had talked to each other and about two weeks before his death I called him to see how he was doing. He was so happy to hear from me and kept on saying how it has been to long for us not getting together and he would make a point of doing it soon……He also said we will definitely play our songs together once again .That would make for a dream come true. As in a John Lennon song “the dream is over”…………
This is only a fraction of my life with Ron but I know it will remain in my memory forever and ever…..
Love,
Bob (Spanman)
I met Ron in the late 80's when i started freelanceing with ESPN. Ron was like an audio god to a young engineer from TN. Whenever I had chance after my work was done and Ron had a break I was pickin' his brain. He was one of the golden few who didn't keep their secrets to themselves. He wanted you to learn. Tell you everything? No. But enough to get you started and thinking in your own. He pushed you as an A-2 to not just make it work reliably. but to make it sound like it never sounded before. He was a mentor to me unknowingly and helped me immensely so that I was able to progress to A-1 myself. I hadn't seen or talked with Ron since the 90's when I stopped freelanceing to stay at home with my kids. This week a fellow freelancer originally from here at home called and gave me the sad news. I felt like I had been kicked in the chest. I'm now a full-time Firefighter/EMT and deal with this daily. But it should never be your friends. I regret not staying in touch with Ron. He WAS by the definition, "A Real Genius"
Kevin Nichols
Bristol, TN
I knew Ron for many years and can truly say it was an honor working for him, and with him.... He always strived to be the best but being the best was never good enough... there was always something that could make things sound a little "sweeter". Or make the broadcast a little better. It was this quest for perfection which brought out the best in everyone he was around and made audio crews try harder and harder to do things the right way and to try new ideas to make things better. I was looking so forward to my 6th season of doing Winter and Summer X. But now it's going to be very different knowing there won't be any more of "Ronnie's meetings". A very empty feeling.
I'm gonna miss the "What's up Fultzie , you all good"? Ron gave me many opportunites and it is much appreciated. I think I can speak for all of the A1's and A2's out there when I say a legend is gone, but will never be forgotten.
He will be missed. peace, brother.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family.
Fultzie
It comes with great sadness that I am writing this letter during this difficult time. My name is Victor Victoria. I am truly a testament to the kind of person Ron Scalise was, giving , sharing, compassionate, and passionate. I became all of those things in this industry because Ron Salise taught me the right way to approach this crazy industry we call TV. If it were not for him taking a chance with this big Mexican kid, right out of college, I probably would not have enjoyed the success in this business that I have had. He was truly my mentor. I was passionate about sports, having played all my life and he was very passionate about audio. Thus with our relationship, I became a very passionate sports guy that was very much interested in the sounds of the game. He always had a very enthusiastic demeanor about him that rubbed off on me. I also know that aside from his passion at work, his passion was his family. Although I have never met Brenna, RJ, or Rosario, I have heard numerous stories about all of you since you were born. And to the parents of Ron Scalise, I can tell you that it is a great pleasure, having spent better than twenty years with your son.
Through this all I cannot think of a better decision that I made in my life but to become a graduate of the Scalise Academy. I love you Ron Scalise.
Sincerely,
Victor Victoria
....Recording the narration & music and miniature ukulele songs for "The Mysterious Hawaiian" up at the original "Nineteen", home of mellotrons and gypsy feasts, where I would later live, on Whitney Street, in Hartford...laughing til we fell down...recording the crickets in the bushes at night at the South Glastonbury studio for my song "In The Hour Of The Loon"; crickets never sounded so good....filming "Balboa" on the golf courses of Avon & the streets of Hartford....laughing til we fell down...recording my Barry White impersonation tune "Love On A Song" (the gunshot was a piece of plywood slapped on the floor)..laughing til we dropped...screaming fake French cursewords into the microphone while recording a lead vocal and giving him fits of laughter...endlessly creating characters for our amusement, such as "Midge", the peeping tom creature, half- human, half-soul singer ...bestowing immortal nicknames on people, reverbs, animals & local bands.....performing live countless times with him at the sound helm - the tapes of which I still listen to with admiration for his perfect sound captures.... putting together the slide show for the premier of "Bluewhite", developing prints of my cat in the Blizzzard of '78 in his darkroom...hysterically satirizing all the voices of the street people of our region, such as Tom Carvel, Ruby Vine & various streetwalking "actrixes".... laughing, laughing, laughing....there are so many memories of feverish creative collaboration in various studios & clubs & outdoor festivals and so many of my songs that would never have existed at all were it not for him....and when I think of these times, and of him, I laugh til I cry.
He was the funniest, the most gifted. He was the best.
I can't believe how sad I am about this and that has taken this long for me to believe and respond. I've known Ron since I came into this industry over 2o years ago. He has been both a mentor and a friend and I, like Peter and everyone choose to celebrate his life and memories. Ron touched many people alond the way and it is very eveident from the effect this tragedy has had on everyone. He loved his work, but also loved to share his knowledge to others. I was one of the lucky ones to have the oppotunity to learn and share that knowledge. But it not only the was the way he loved his work and wanted to teach oothers, but the type of person he was. He was genuine and caring and I feel lucky to have been a friend and I will never forget him.Dawn, I never met you, but I think it is wonderful whta you are doing in his memory and I want to express my gratitude and codolences to you and also to his children. I will always work to do well with Ron in my work toward making people hear like they were there. Thanks Ron, I'll never forget you.
Since the day I got the word of this tragic event, I've been trying to put my thoughts together of what to say about this wonderful man. He was my mentor and friend. He gave me the opportunities to get me where I am today as a female audio professional in a male dominated industry. I met Ron for the first time in the early 80's when I was a staff crewer at ESPN when came in looking for a job. He claims I threw his resume in the trash (which I know I didn't)and would tease me about it all the time. After than I only saw him occasionally until he joined the X games family and we immediately hit it off. I was always surprised by his calls asking for my thoughts on various audio subjects surrounding events where I was involved and was never impatient with me when I would ask questions on subjects I didn't understand. This Winter's X Games will truly be difficult for all of us. I will miss our morning trips to Starbucks and his calls while I am up on the mountain at 8 at night freezing wondering why I wasn't at the bar. There will be a huge hole in my heart where he has a place. I will miss him dearly.
The following is a letter to all from Dawn, I apologize for waiting to post it but this past week has been incredibly difficult, for the family and myself as the reality of it all has set in, and the shock has been replaced by grief, and loneliness. I still can't believe it's real and I keep waiting for his call which isn't coming. My life is still so empty and I have a void which will remain with me, probably till the end.
Kevin
Today it has been one week since Ron was taken from us. I’m sitting here, now alone, still in shock from it all. This week has been a nightmare, yet I have been very consoled by the outpouring of affection that you have all showed for Ronny, myself, the kids, the family and Kevin.
Ron and I shared so many things together. We loved our combined four children very much, we discussed his work constantly and I helped him as much as I could with it (I was the one at home calling him during X to tell him the center speaker was out or the lip sync was off), we had the same ideals, the same beliefs, the same fears and concerns and the same dreams for our future together. We loved music and we played together often. I think Ron’s abilities at the piano were what amazed me the most. He made a piano touch you inside. Our neighbors loved the summer days when the windows were open and they could enjoy what he would call his ‘incapable playing’.
Before the memorial on Wednesday, Kevin Cleary and I sat while Grayson Hugh played the two songs that were to be played during the service so we could hear them once and hopefully not be hit so hard by them during the service (which didn’t work). Besides the music itself, what hurt me the most was to watch Grayson’s hands on the keyboard. He played exactly like Ronny, and his hands looked exactly the same as Ron’s did when he played. Actually, Ronny would tell you that Ron’s hands looked like Grayson’s, since he learned his style from him.
My point to this story is that I have always believed that each person is a collection of the qualities of the people that they meet along their travels on Earth. We usually pick up the best qualities that we admire from each person who we encounter. Some affect us and teach us more than others do. Sometimes we even become exactly like that emulated person in many ways. Ron had Grayson’s piano playing hands. Ron bit the inside of his cheek like his sister used to. Ron had his Dad’s smile. He learned his patience from his children… and I also know that each one of you in some small or large way also contributed to the powerhouse who was Ron Scalise.
Conversely, I know that he left a part of himself with all of you. I have heard so many stories of how he helped you, taught you, took you under his wing, always had a kind word or made you laugh. I know you’re all hurting, but have some peace in knowing he is still with you all. You have all taken some quality of his with you and you will keep him alive by using those qualities.
Thank you all so much for your response to the fund for his children. It was the first thing I could think of that would put Ron at peace. Your kindness and concern is overwhelming. As I said before, this fund will ensure that they have the chance to become as successful and as great as their Dad. I promise to keep you all posted on the kids progress. They are your children now too.
I expect all of you to now take even extra care in your travels – whether miles from the office or home or across the country.
Please hold your loved ones close to you – tell them often that you love them. Ron was good at that.
Also, take care of each other on the road.
To all of Ron’s audio guys – keep it big and keep it loud (even if it’s golf) He will be listening.
I have asked Chris Fichera to take some of Ron’s ashes to England with him in March where he will spread them across Abbey Road. He will then take some to Italy where Ron and I were to be married.
Meanwhile, Ron’s parents and I will be planning for a place in Connecticut where he can rest near his sister, Claire.
I will let you all know where this will be so you may visit.
Thank you all.
“The dream is over – what can I say?
The dream is over – yesterday
I was the dreamweaver…
And now I’m reborn
And so dear friends…
You’ll have to carry on
The dream is over.”
Lennon
With love,
Dawna Marie Trainor-Scalise
Ron was working in the audio booth at Limerock back in '1987 when I was a utility working my way up the ESPN freelance chain. His ability to see into people and empathize with their situations was unmatched and his enthusiasm was always part of the game he brought to live television.
I was fortunate enough to share some thoughts with Ron this past November in Homestead. Here was somebody almost everybody I know in the business looked up to telling me how well things were going for him at ESPN. The gist of the conversation covered past memories and the opportunities ahead now that NASCAR was back where it belonged.
The ESPN family has many branches and Ron was especially adept at helping others grow out from that base. Ron's patience and tutelage were a rare gift in the technical world. Anyone who interfaced with the man could attest to this great talent and charm.
You will always be there, you always were.
God bless,
Colin M.
Ron and I were not only band mates (the poison toads) but very good friends. I have been in a total state of shock ever since I heard the mind blowing life altering news. I still to this day have a hard time accepting that my good friend "scalotchu" is not here. I have wanted to post something here since the site went up, but frankly I just did not know what to say. There is not any hour in any day that I do not think about Rons snicker and that awesome smile. There is definately a part of me that is gone for ever. The only thing that gets close to making me feel OK is knowing he is up there jamming with some pretty awesome cats. I can't waite to see him again on the other side. Ron I love you and miss you.
Bob Smicz
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