Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas to all of the Nifty readers. It's been a great 2023, and I have enjoyed bringing all of you the adventures of CJ and his circle of friends. Never fear, 2024 will bring many more adventures for CJ, Wally, Alex, Ronny and everyone in the circle.
I continue to rewrite, add to and write more chapters of this story and I'm seeking any suggestions, constructive criticms or positive feedback you have about the story. Please send information to cjwilson328@aol.com. For those if you who have already reached out to me - my thanks! I'm working your ideas into future storylines.
Thanks to everyone who enjoyed the previous chapter on Ronny. Ronny continues in this chapter to enlighten all of you about him and CJ making it through college together.
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Hey everyone, it's Ronny and I'm back to share more of my story with all of you. I thought it was getting later than it actually is, so I'm going to tell you more about CJ's and my experiences through college. I've got a few more hours before I need to be at work, and it's been fun for me to recall my past with all of you. When I last left you, I had ended the story with CJ and I ready to start our freshman classes together.
CJ and I made it to breakfast the next morning. We ate, walked back to the dorm, got ready for our shower and headed for the bathroom. Once we had both disrobed, CJ looked at me and said "you were not kidding when you called yourself a hairless beast!" I cracked up at him and said "what you see is what you get. One hairless beast, full of love and a big dick!" We both cracked up and continued chatting about our expectations for classes.
It was a nice August morning, so we both put on shorts and a polo for our television class. Besides our tv and radio classes, we also had english and calculus together. On the way to our tv class, CJ asked me "you think we'll get sick of each other by the end of the semester?" I smiled at him and said "nah, I guarantee you we'll be friends for life CJ. When is your golf practice, and is your first match coming up soon?" He smiled and said "I need to be at the golf course every day at 3:00, and our first match is this Saturday. I'm looking forward to it Ronny." I replied "can people follow you around the course?" He smiled and said "yeah, the coach allows family and friends to follow the groups as long as they don't interfere. UD and Sally are coming for my match, and I'm sure they will let you tag along with them if you want." Ronny said "sounds great. I'm not planning to go home for a while, so I'll be out at the course cheering you on."
We walked into the large classroom with several other students. James Thompson was in the room greeting students as they came in. He saw both of us and said "CJ, Ronny it's great to see both of you. I'm sorry I could not make the picnic, but I was hoping you two got a chance to meet before classes." I said "James, it's great to see you again. CJ and I met Friday afternoon moving into our dorm rooms. We're two doors apart from each other, and we've enjoyed most of the weekend activities together." CJ then spoke up and said "our schedules are very similar James, so we're looking forward to kicking off the week and academic semester with you." James smiled at both of us and said "next week, we'll be holding auditions for the nightly television news team. If you two have a desire to be on air talent, please plan on stopping by. I'm in need of all positions for the news anchors, weather and sports. I think you two will work out great to be on air talent. If you have any questions before the auditions, please don't hesitate to ask me." CJ then asked "what if I have a golf match on a night where I have to deliver the news?" James replied "don't worry about that. I also pick several backups for each position, and we split the semester up into two equal seven-week periods. I take schedules into account as much as I can. Don't let your athletic matches interfere with trying out. We'll work it out for everyone's benefit."
CJ and I sat down in the second row of seats. We introduced ourselves to the other students around us, and soon James kicked off the class. My college academic career had now officially begun, and I was excited as hell to make the most out of the next four years at Maumee.
CJ and I made it through our first day of classes, and he took off for the golf course shortly before 3:00. I decided to go for a workout and was pleased when I ran into Brian and several other members of the swim team. I found out they work out usually every day at 3:00 pm, and was pleased to hear them extend an invite to me when I can join them. Brian asked me "has the coach contacted you yet Ronny about practices?" I replied saying "yes, he talked to me on Saturday. I'm anxious for our practices to start in mid-September. He also said our first match will be the last week of October." Brian smiled and said "I'm so glad you ended up choosing to attend Maumee Ronny. You're going to have a lot of fun here, and I see nothing but good things happening for you in the next four years. It's time for you to be initiated into the Maumee swim team though. To be one of us, you need to shave off your body hair. You can keep your hair on your head and your eyebrows though." I cracked up at Brian and said "okay, can I do it alone, or do I have to do it in front of all of you?" Brian turned to the others and said "what do you think guys? This Friday after our workout in the gym shower?" All of them agreed and I smiled at all of them saying "Friday after our workout, I'll be ready for it guys!"
I was walking back to the dorm after the workout and I heard a car honking at me. I looked and it was CJ returning from the golf course. He and I met in the parking lot and he said "have you gone for dinner yet?" I said "I went and worked out with some of the guys from the swim team. I was going to head over there after I drop my stuff off in the room." CJ replied "mind if I join you then?" I smiled and said "not at all CJ."
On the way to the cafeteria, CJ inquired about my swim schedule. I told him about practices starting up, and our matches begin in October. He then said "you mind if we put a calendar up in your room and we mark all of our matches on it? I'd like to make sure I'm able to attend your home swim matches, if you don't mind?" I smiled and said "not at all dude. Sam is planning to come to my home matches, so I can introduce you two and you can cheer me on at my matches." CJ and I continued our conversation mostly about classes over dinner. He and I are both excited to get into the lab classes for tv and radio. Calculus is going to be okay for both of us, and we're not too sure about our english professor. He seems like a big pot head hippy from the 60's who has not grown up yet. I'm sure we'll get use to him, but it was definitely our weirdest class of the day.
On our way back to the dorm, I told CJ about my swim team initiation this coming Friday. He cracked up and asked "how do you feel about other guys shaving your pubes?" I looked at him and said "you saw me this morning. Between my pits and crotch, it should take them less than two minutes. It's all going to be fine. I've adjusted to being called a hairless beast, so why not continue the nickname in college?" CJ said "the golf team informed me today that I need to buy the celebratory cigars for our victory smoke after the match this Saturday." I said "cigars, have you ever smoked one before?" He smiled and said "UD smokes them, and I've snuck a number out of his humidor. My buddies and I smoke them on the golf course. I enjoy them and have found them to be very good with some bourbon. We'll bring some back when we go and visit UD and the family in Cheviot. I'll give you an introduction to cigars and bourbon some night down by the river on campus."
The rest of the week went by quickly for CJ and myself. We began settling into the college life routine and before we knew it, one week of the semester was under our belt. The Friday swim team initiation went fine and the guys respected my decision to keep the hair on my head. I told them I was going to get a buzz cut closer to our practices, and all of them said they are joining me with a buzz cut as well.
CJ's first golf match went very well for him on Saturday. UD, Sally, their youngest daughter Laura and I followed CJ around the course. CJ won his match, and he had the third lowest score for the team. His coach was very pleased with his collegiate debut, and the team won the contest over the three other teams playing. CJ was so pleased after his round and said "okay UD, I can eat now that my nerves are calmed down. Where's lunch at today?" UD chuckled and said "believe it or not, I know a restaurant owner in town here and I made arrangements for us to enjoy lunch when you finished your match up." CJ's coach told him to have a good afternoon with the family and reminded him to be at practice on Monday even though it was a holiday.
Lunch was fantastic, and UD introduced us all to his friend Denny. Denny joined us after we finished lunch, and he traded war stories with UD about what was happening in the restaurant industry. Before we left Denny gave CJ and I several passes for free dinners at his place. He said "guys, I know that the cafeteria food can sometimes be less than desirable. When this happens to you, come on out for a dinner on me. Look me up again if you run out of passes. Since you're related to my old geezer friend Dean here, you're welcome to a free meal anytime you want one." Both CJ and I thanked Denny, and told him we will see him again when we're longing for a good meal.
UD and Sally felt bad that we could not come to Cheviot for a cookout over the weekend. CJ said "don't worry, we'll come home sometime when we have more time. You heard the coach, and I have to be at practice on Monday. Ronny and I have our first lab assignment for tv class which we need to work on this weekend also." UD and Sally understood, and Sally said "it's good to see both of you enjoying yourselves. I'm glad the first week of classes went well for both of you, and I hope they continue to go smoothly. Please give us a call though if you two need anything." UD said "CJ, I brought those two calculus books you asked me to from your room. I've got them in a book bag in the trunk. Let's go get them." I stayed with Sally and Laura while CJ and UD retrieved the book bag and transferred it to CJ's car. CJ got hugs from all of his family, and I was taken back when Sally, UD and Laura gave me a hug also. I thanked all of them for letting me tag along with them on the course today, and thanked UD for the great lunch and introduction to Denny. UD smiled at me and said "if I'm not available for some reason, you two call Denny and he'll help you out with whatever you need guys."
CJ and I waved the family off. I said "well, do you think those two calculus books will help us more with our homework?" CJ cracked up at me and said "there are no calculus books in the bag. UD brought us some beer, another bottle of bourbon and some cigars. He figured I may have to treat the golf team to something for being one of the medalists in today's match. All he asked of us is to be responsible and no driving if we do drink." I smiled at CJ and said "let's not let him down on that. What the hell, I'll try some bourbon and a cigar with you this weekend in honor of your great match today dude!"
CJ replied "great, there's a party tonight at Chip's apartment off campus. He told me to bring you and the cigars over as well as anything we want to drink. I promise you Ronny, if you don't like the bourbon and cigars, you don't have to finish them. I think you'll like them though, you hairless beast." I busted out laughing at CJ and said "let's head back to campus you stud golfer! Thanks for including me today watching your golf round and with your family. I appreciate everything you did for me CJ." CJ gave me a hug and said "no problem at all. Remember, this is only week one, but I know we're going to be friends for life Ronny."
CJ and I enjoyed partying with the golf team Saturday night. I was surprised with the taste of the bourbon. It wasn't bad at all. CJ made it better for me to digest since it was my first time drinking bourbon. He mixed my bourbon with some coke, and then had me try ice tea as a mixer for the second round. I enjoyed them both, and the bourbon actually helped me relax to smoke my first cigar. CJ looked on while I got it lit, and he smiled like a proud father at me. By the end of the evening, I was feeling very relaxed, and was really enjoying the company of CJ and the golf team. Chip had a nice apartment, and I felt bad that all of the guys were smoking in it. He did not mind at all and said to me "relax Ronny, everything is good and just continue to enjoy yourself." CJ and I went out on his patio for a while and sat at his patio table. It was a nice evening, and we chewed the fat with each other about many subjects. I looked at CJ and said "you're quickly becoming the brother I always wanted in my life." He smiled at me, took a puff on his cigar and said "likewise my friend. I'm so glad you came into my life one week ago." CJ then raised his glass and said "to you and I and our beautiful friendship together. May it last forever." We clanked our glasses together, took a drink and continued to enjoy the beautiful evening together.
Later that night, CJ and I walked bay to our dorm and ended up in my dorm room. He gave me a kiss, which I did not refuse. The kiss turned into making out with him. He eventually worked his way down to my shorts, and released them. After the shorts fell to the floor, he fished my dick out of my underwear and began giving me a blowjob. I could not believe how much CJ was getting into the blowjob, and damn did it feel good! He got me so worked up and soon after I said "CJ, I'm cumming." He took the load of cum in his mouth, then worked his way back up to my face. We exchanged the load of cum between us, as we exchanged more sloppy kisses with each other. I said to CJ "that felt so incredible. How about hanging out, and sleeping together tonight?" CJ smiled at me and said "I'd really like that Ronny." Soon, we were snuggled up together under my cover with me spooning and holding CJ until we awoke the next morning.
I was concerned the day after that CJ may have been put off by the entire scene and our friendship would suffer. It didn't. If anything, we grew closer with CJ and myself getting to know each other even better.
The weeks went into a month for us. I started practices for the swim team, and introduced CJ to all of the team members just as he had done for me with the golf team. We clicked with all of the upper classmen and had our protectors everywhere we went on campus. CJ and I became part of the elite freshman who were accepted by the upper echelon of Maumee College. Both of us auditioned for the nightly news cast at the tv station. James selected CJ for the weather anchor, and I was given the position of sports anchor. James started us in the second seven-week period, and told me that I'll be covered by a backup whenever I need to leave town for a swim meet on a Friday night. We were both excited, and could not wait for our start in late October. The more we did at the tv station, the more we became known by the upper class television students. They made sure we felt welcome at the station, and helped us tremendously with our lab work. One junior named Collin asked us to help work on his weekly show `All Around Maumee'. Collin produced and directed the weekly show. CJ and I ran cameras, worked on audio and set up the CG system for his shows. Once we learned the basics of the switcher, he worked us into technical direction work. Both CJ and I were intimidated by the switcher, but the more we practiced with Collin, the more comfortable we became with it. The extra work also helped us in our lab work with James. He was very pleased with us on all of our assignments and said "I can tell you two have been working with some upper class students. Keep it up guys, you're both doing fantastic work and soon we'll see how you do on air as well."
On the night of our first television show, CJ and I were surprised with a visit from my parents and CJ's aunt and uncle. We introduced the four of them to each other, and also introduced them to James Thompson. James set them up like royalty in a comfortable office where they could watch the broadcast with him. CJ and I did a good job that night. We had fun and I remember James coming out to us after the broadcast was complete. He looked at both of us and said "you two are the future of this station. I cannot believe how well you both did tonight, and be prepared as I intend to mold both of you into the best news broadcasters you can be."
The seven of us had a nice dinner at Denny's restaurant after the news broadcast. Denny recognized James and said "James, it's so good to see you tonight. How do you know my old geezer friend Dean here?" James explained that CJ and I had our first television broadcast tonight, and that all of us came out to celebrate our successful evening. Denny congratulated us both on our first broadcast and set us up with his wonderful almond raspberry cake for a special dessert. Denny joined us for dessert and asked "James, will there be a tv telethon auction again this year for the tv station?" James smiled at him and replied "yes, my staff and I have actually started planning for it in March of next year." Denny smiled and said "well sign me up to provide dinner for everyone for two nights, and put me down for my usual five dinner packages as prizes." James smiled at Denny and said "thanks Denny. Our annual telethon auction always appreciates your support, as well as all of the support we get from the Maumee business community."
UD heard all of this talk and said "James, tell me more about this telethon auction, and can I help you out with anything even though my restaurants are not in the immediate Maumee area?" James explained what the auction is and that it goes on for four nights in March of each year. He looked at CJ and myself and said "I think I found my two hosts for the event this year. I know I will have some upset upper classmen with me, but these two youngsters impressed the hell out of me tonight. I see nothing but a promising future for both of them in the broadcasting industry."
Before the end of the evening, James had my parents and UD and Sally hooked on the auction. UD signed up to donate food for the telethon staff on the other two telethon nights; gave five dinner packages as prizes to his riverfront restaurants; donated a catering package as a prize; and Aunt Sally donated a kitchen remodel package as a prize. My parents told James they will donate two sides of beef and a number of gift cards to the telethon. They both volunteered to assist the telethon staff in any way they could. It was a wonderful evening for everyone and I remember CJ and I talking each other to sleep as we recapped our awesome accomplishment. Little did I know that this accomplishment will be the first of many for the two of us at Maumee College.
CJ and I did well for our first semester at college. We both ended up being recognized with honors from the Great Lakes Athletic Conference for our performances on the golf and swim teams. Academically, we both ended up on the dean's list. Our families got together over the Christmas holiday in Vernon for a nice dinner. I took the opportunity to introduce CJ and Clint to each other as they had not met yet. CJ and Sam attended most of my home swim matches together, and the three of us always had great weekends together when Sam came to visit us. Our weekends together usually ended up in a three way action with CJ and myself split roasting Sam. CJ gained more sexual confidence in himself, and Sam always left the campus with a smile on his face. It was a great first semester of college, and I was pleased with all of the accomplishments that my friend CJ and I experienced together.
We both returned to Maumee after the holidays, and were ready to take the campus by storm. Neither one of us planned to play any spring sports, but we vowed to keep doing workouts together and to start living up to our nicknames of the "television terminators". Our class schedule focused more on the television side of the department and CJ and I were selected for the nightly newscasts. James asked CJ to be a news anchor the first seven weeks, and perform the weather duties during the second half of the semester. I continued on with sports for the first half of the semester, and switched with CJ performing the anchor duties for the second half of the semester. We both also started doing field reports to expand our broadcasting skills.
The highlight of our semester was the telethon auction. James threw so much work at CJ and I, but everything seemed fun for us as we continued to learn new skills and abilities along the way. I know when James announced the "television terminators" as the telethon hosts, several upper classmen were upset with his pick. CJ and I vowed to do our best, and win the critics over with our skills. I remember us on the Friday before the telethon making a pinky swear with each other. CJ started in and said "Ronny, let's do this for ourselves, James and the station. Let's make this the best telethon that Maumee has ever seen."
We did just that! Everything went well for the week. CJ and I hosted the shows for each of the four nights. My parents, UD and Sally volunteered on the phone banks each night of the telethon. Mom and dad had a great time and said it was a nice vacation for them away from the farm. All of the students were in love with UD's food and raved over his barbecue creations. He really won the entire student staff over when he gave everyone a dinner for two to one of his restaurants in Cincinnati. By the end of the telethon my parents, UD and Sally were already preparing for next year's telethon with James.
CJ and I took a well-deserved break two weeks after the telethon was over. He bid on a weekend getaway package to Cleveland, Ohio and won it. The hotel was in downtown Cleveland and included two tickets to a Cleveland Cavaliers basketball game and two tickets to the Rock and Roll Hall of fame. CJ and I enjoyed the basketball game, but the highlight for both of us was going through the rock and roll hall of fame. We spent our entire day there spending time at each exhibit we encountered. Both of us enjoy music, and it was great to see all of the memorabilia of rock groups and individual recording artists that we both know.
After a nice dinner, we went back to the hotel and got comfortable for the rest of the night. CJ brought a couple bottles of wine for us, and the night turned into one of our famous bull sessions. The topic tonight was one we had not discussed in detail before. CJ wanted to know more about my tastes in men, and I decided to find out what his tastes are as well. CJ started sharing his vision of his fantasy man: a man taller than him with sandy brown hair, a very hairy body, blue eyes, a muscular build and a personality to die for. He went on with his vision of the two of them falling in love, and a beachside wedding at sunset. Eventually he wants to be a father with his partner, but not right away. He wants the two of them to grow with each other first, before bringing a child into their life together.
I was memorized by his detail and could tell he has thought a lot about this. I have fantasied about my future partner as well, but have never shared my visions with anyone. That changed though when CJ said "enough about me, what does Ronald J. Bradford see happening in his life?"
I took a sip of my wine and said "I envision someone who is a type A personality, but not as big a type A as you are CJ." He chuckled on that and I continued on with "I want a man who knows the value of hard work, has more hair than I do but not an ape, is easy on the eyes and is not afraid to have intimate conversations with me. I'd prefer someone with a good build, but smaller than me in height. I want my partner to let me lead our journey, but still be there to reel me in when I need it. I want to eventually raise a family with my soul mate. Most of all, I want someone who will grow with me mentally, emotionally, spiritually and sexually through our journey. We have to laugh together, and share our good times and bad times with each other."
I took another sip of my wine and said "don't laugh about my wedding vision. We're on a beautiful farm, in a pasture full of sun flowers and wild flowers. There is a lake in the background, and the preacher and all the guests are near the lake. My soul mate and I come riding horses in from each side. We both get down from our horse, join each other in front of the preacher and recite our vows to one another." I looked over at CJ, and he had tears in his eyes. He took a drink of his wine and said "why do you think I'd laugh at that beautiful scene? It sounds very peaceful and absolutely gorgeous Ronny."
CJ shocked me with one question when he looked at me and said "it's been almost nine months since we met Ronny. So far, we have made out a few times, traded blow jobs on each other, and had a few late-night circle jerks. Do you not find me attractive?" I smiled at CJ and said "my brother, you are a very attractive man. You always have a plan, and are determined to achieve the goals you set for yourself. I admire you, and I always want you in my life. I need you as my best friend CJ, and not a lover. I hope this is not the wine talking, and you can understand what I'm saying?"
He smiled back at me and said "I understand Ronny, and feel the same way. I'd hate it if something ever came between us or we broke up and never speak to each other again. You mean too much to me to lose each other. I know you have my back, and I always have your back you hairless beast! You're the only one I have shared so much about my life with. I always wanted a brother to share my life with, and now I feel as though I have one in you."
CJ continued on and said "promise me though, if we both turn 30 and are still alone, we can hook up then?" I cracked up at CJ and said "first of all, I think we will both find the right man for us. Second, how do you know we will end up in the same town working together?" CJ flashed his pearly whites at me and said "I don't know what the future holds for both of us. I do know that wherever we go in life, I will always keep in touch with you to share my ups, my downs and I hope that you will do the same with me."
From that evening on, CJ and I were open books to each other. Our friendship grew, we worked hard in school, we went on man hunts together sharing our likes and dislikes with each other, had a three way with Charlie our RA and we continued to live up to our nicknames of the television terminators to everyone at Maumee College. We both had an outstanding freshman year, and it culminated at the annual department awards ceremony when James declared us as the Outstanding Television Freshman of the Year students.
I returned to the farm for the summer break, and CJ worked at an ABC affiliate in Cincinnati for an internship. He's decided to do a double major in television broadcasting and computer science. Picking up extra hours over the summers is essential for him to graduate in four years. He did well on the internship, and they even had him perform the weather broadcast on Saturday and Sunday nights. I went over to Cincinnati for a couple of weekend visits. It was great to see him in action on the set, and I could tell he was learning so much on production work behind the scenes.
Sam decided to try big city life out for a while, and ventured off to Indianapolis. He landed a good job on an assembly line, joined a union and found a guy who was looking for a roommate. Sam kept apologizing to me all summer telling me "He had to try this for himself." I was happy for him and said "Sam, you have to do what makes you happy. We'll still see each other, and I'll stop in for a couple of weekend visits if you will let me?" Sam enjoyed it when I came over for the weekend, but our last visit together was awkward. At lunch on Sunday before I left, I said "spill it Sam. What's up as you are not yourself?" He looked at me and said "Ronny, I've fallen in love with my roommate Ben. I feel like I'm cheating on you though." After he told me this, Sam broke into tears. I went to my friend and gave him a hug to console him. I can't say I was upset, but I was taken back by the announcement. Sam and I had not made any commitments to each other, and in a number of matters I was kicking myself for not letting Sam truly know how I felt about him. Sam's my vision of someone I could spend my life with. I decided to support my friend and said "Sam, I will always be here for you. You need to spread your wings, and see how things work out with Ben. Whenever you need me, just reach out and I'll come running as fast as I can my friend." I left Indianapolis feeling empty, but told myself "Everything will work out fine Ronny. Whether it's Sam or someone else, you'll find your soul mate. You've grown since leaving Jennings County, and it's time to let Sam grow as well. If you're meant to be together, it will happen."
I was glad to get back to school in the fall. CJ and I stayed in Clark Hall our sophomore year, and we both ended up with no roommates. It was funny that we did not agree to be roommates, as we always were together in one of our rooms. Our friendship continued to flourish and we continued to support each other in so many ways. CJ led the golf team as the medalist on a number of occasions. I had a great year on the swim team, earning so many accolades in the Great Lakes Athletic Conference. Our television skills continued to excel past others, and we challenged each other in so many positive ways.
The highlight of our year was the second semester. Once again, we both covered the newscasts all semester in the anchor, weather and sports positions. James selected CJ and I to host the television auction, and my parents along with UD and Sally participated all week at the auction having so much fun with the students and faculty. Once again, mom and dad loved getting away from the farm for a week and enjoyed my college environment tremendously. It was so great to have their support, and they continued the telethon work for my junior and senior years as well.
CJ and I did decide to be roommates in our junior and senior years. We both moved to Kettering Hall, which was the honors dorm for upperclassmen. I'm not sure how we ended up in the honors dorm, but it proved to be the best two years of our life at college. Charlie served as our RA during our junior year. It was his senior year, and we made it worth his while. I don't know how many three ways we ended up in, but I do remember Charlie telling both of us on his graduation day "thanks for all the fond memories, guys. Wherever we end up, I will never forget you two and the influence you both have had on my life."
Our room in Kettering was double the size of what we had in Clark Hall. We both loved room 320, as our window let us go out on the roof covering the entrance into the dormitory. Friday afternoons were especially fun for CJ and I as we took advantage of any nice Friday afternoon we could. I remember climbing out on the roof with a bucket of beer and our lawn chairs. We had so much fun greeting everyone who came into the dorm, and had an excellent view of all the activities going on at the quad. Life was great for CJ and I. We continued to enjoy our sporting teams; our classes went well for us; we continued delivering the news, weather and sports nightly to the Maumee audience; we took over for Collin and began producing the television show `All Around Maumee'; the telethon auction was the best in history at Maumee; my parents, UD and Sally took a vacation together to the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky after the auction; and my best friend and I continued to live life to its fullest.
Our senior year came around and I had mixed emotions about it. On one hand, I was excited for what future adventures CJ and I will face in our career. The other hand, I was afraid that my friend and I will lose touch with each other. Sure, there will be phone calls, cards, texts and occasional visits. But the thought of not seeing CJ daily did make me nervous throughout the year.
CJ began flooding the southeastern television markets with resumes, audio and video clips early in the fall semester. I waited, and did not actively pursue finding a job until the second semester. In hindsight, I should have been looking much sooner than I did. I saw that CJ was getting interest, but he had no firm offers before we left for our Christmas break.
I performed an internship at the Dayton, Ohio CBS affiliate during the second semester. Dayton was close to Maumee, so I was able to travel to and from campus daily. Between the internship, travel time, one evening class and trying to keep up with campus television activities, I was exhausted. I wish I had done my internship earlier than I did, or even did it over a summer like CJ did. My weekends consisted of sending resumes and audition clips to television stations. Unlike CJ, I focused on the Midwest television markets for job opportunities. There are a number of smaller markets in the Midwest, and I was hopeful that an opportunity will show up for me.
One week after the television auction, CJ was asked to go for an interview in St Petersburg, Florida. He was very excited about the interview, and asked me to come along. I remember him saying "we hit it hard to finish up our last telethon auction. Let's take a break, and enjoy a few days on the beach together." I decided to stay put and continue my job search. I wished my friend well, and took him to the Cincinnati airport for his flight into Tampa.
I remember him calling me on Sunday before boarding his return flight. He was so excited and said "Ronny, I got a job in St Petersburg. It's for a weather anchor position on the weekends, and general reporter duties during the week. I'm going to take the job, and I'm going to make my mom and dad's condo into my Florida residence."
I was so happy for my friend, and kicking myself in the butt for not starting my search earlier in the year. We spent the next few weeks together and enjoyed what remaining time we had left together at Maumee. Our last department recognition banquet occurred the week when CJ got back from Florida. He and I shared the Outstanding Television Graduates Award and fell asleep in each other's arms that night.
Graduation day came around. It was hard for me to believe that four years of work came down to this one day for all of us. I walked across the stage when my name was called and received my degree. I graduated with cum laude honors and was very proud of my accomplishments. I remember hearing my dad screaming for me, as well as UD yelling "way to go Ronny -- we're proud of you son!"
My family and CJ's family enjoyed one last lunch together at Denny's restaurant before we left Maumee. CJ and I ended up being the last to leave. I broke down first and said "it's going to be hard not seeing you every day CJ. I'm going to miss you, my brother, but I promise to keep in touch." Bye this time, tears were also streaming down CJ's face. He looked at me and said "Ronny, I'm so glad I met you four years ago. I can't imagine sharing this journey with anyone else but you, my brother. We've had a hell of a ride here at Maumee, and I also will keep in touch with you. Who knows, maybe someday we'll end up in the same television market together." I smiled at him and said "we'll see CJ. You're going to be off soon to Florida, and unless things change drastically for me, I'll end up at a smaller market here in the Midwest."
We hugged for several minutes in the parking lot. I broke the hug, stuck out my pinky finger and said "brothers for life?" CJ cracked up, extended his pinky finger and wrapped his finger around mine. He looked me intensely in my eyes and said "brothers for life, Ronny."
Both of us arrived at our destinations fine. Mom and Dad had a family celebration for me the next day. CJ and I texted each other every day. It was harder than I thought it would be, not seeing him daily and sharing dailye interactions with him. The texts between us helped, but soon the texts went to every couple of days apart. I expected this and started to slip into a depression. My dad saw it on me first. I remember him saying "don't let CJ down, Ronny. Don't be jealous of him either. Get your shit together, and find some work to make you happy." I knew Dad was right, but it was very hard to go cold turkey on my daily interactions with CJ.
A few weeks went by, and I was ready to throw in the towel on television broadcasting. It was a cooler Thursday summer morning and I took Thunder on a long ride to give me some inspiration or a sign that positive things will soon come my way. I stopped at my lake and let Thunder take a drink of water. I felt my cell phone vibrate and opened it up to find an email from CJ. I was so happy to read it, but all it said was "call me when you can. Love, CJ."
I got Thunder back into the stable, and went into the house for a cup of coffee. I made my way out to the front porch, sat down on a rocker and called CJ. I remember him saying "Ronny Bradford, calling me before 9:00 am. Do you have time to talk about a job opportunity with me?" I smiled and said "give me all the details you can CJ. I'm ready for some good news."
CJ shared all of his news with me, and informed me of the openings at his station. He described Bailey Stauffer, the GM of the station in detail to me. CJ suggested that I get my resume and audition clips out to Bailey as soon as I could. He followed up with another email to me giving me Bailey's contact information. In his email he said "Bailey is off until Monday, so you may not hear from him until next week."
I sent my information to Bailey, and less than two hours later I received a reply email from him. I remember feeling the vibration from my phone while I was working in the barn. Bailey said "Ronny, it's very good to hear from you. You have an impressive resume, and your audition clips are very interesting to me. Are you able to visit me in St Petersburg next Tuesday or Wednesday for an interview on our open positions at WPHS? Looking forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Bailey Stauffer."
I ran into the field screaming to Dad. I showed him the email, and he gave me a big hug. He said "what are you standing here for son? Go tell your mother, call CJ back and get your flights arranged to Tampa. Will you be able to stay with CJ?" I smiled at my dad, and said "yes, he already told me I can stay for as long as I need to." We both gave each other another hug, and I said "thanks for believing in me dad. I have good feelings about this interview."
I went and found mom hanging our laundry on the clothes line. I'm not sure whether mom or dad was more elated with my news? I helped her fold some bed sheets and she said "go reply to Bailey saying you will meet him whatever day works best for his schedule. After that, get in touch with CJ and finally, get your plane tickets purchased. I'm so proud of you Ronny, and I have a good feeling about this interview for you."
I replied to Bailey first and said "Thank you so much for the opportunity to interview with you. I can make it to St Petersburg next week, and will be happy to meet you on whichever day fits better into your schedule. Thanks Bailey." I took a reflective pause, grabbed a glass of ice tea and headed for the front porch. It wasn't even ten minutes later when my phone vibrated with another email signal. I checked the email, and Bailey replied to me indicating his preference of Wednesday for a meeting.
I called CJ next and heard him answer "wow, two calls in one day. What do I owe this pleasure to?" I asked CJ "are you sitting down, and if you are not, you better sit down for this one. Your boss is answering email today even though he is off work. I have an interview set up with him for next Wednesday morning at his office. Can I crash at your place for a few days?" CJ replied "are you shitting me Ronny? Of course, you can crash for as long as you need. Mi casa es su casa!"
CJ picked me up at Tampa airport on Monday afternoon. Even though we had only departed each other a few weeks ago, it seemed as though we had not seen each other for months! He surprised me with a welcome to Tampa gift bag, bought me lunch and took me back to his condo. His news surprised me about Wally, his new friend. I could not believe CJ was in love with someone so quickly, so mentally I referred to Wally as his friend. After seeing CJ and Wally together for one week, I realized CJ was head over heels in love with Wally.
Later that day, CJ introduced me to Alex Turner. I'm not sure who saw the stars first, Alex or myself. I said to myself "Jesus, CJ picked out my fantasy stud for me as well!" Alex and I hit it off immediately. We watched Wally and CJ play softball on Monday night, and went out with the softball team to Gabe's pub after the game. Alex and I spent the night together on CJ's patio chase lounge built for two. Tuesday morning came around and when I woke up with Alex wrapped up in my arm's I said to myself "this feels right. I want this job; I want this man; I want to see my best friend daily and to hell with the Midwest markets! I can adjust myself to St Petersburg, Florida and will do it if it means a continued life full of love, friendship and happiness."
Tuesday rolled into Wednesday, and I woke up nervous. I could not believe I forgot to pack a tie with me. Alex came to my rescue with a salmon color tie along with a tie tack in the shape of a horse shoe. It was a gift from his father, and he asked me to wear it for good luck today. I broke down in tears and said "thank you for everything Alex, and thank you for being here with me this morning. I need you in my mornings to keep me grounded." Alex smiled at me, gave me a big kiss, hugged me and said "go get this job stud! I'm with you all day."
CJ got me to the station, and Bailey and I began our discussion just after 9:00 am. By 10:30, we finished and Bailey said "I have one more task for you this morning. I want you to deliver five sports stories on our noon news today. Are you up for the challenge?" I smiled at Bailey, shook his hand and said "hell yes Bailey, bring on the stories for me!"
I cannot remember what all happened after the noon news cast. I remember CJ taking me to lunch and telling me I needed to return to the station with him at 3:00 pm. While we ate lunch, we called Alex, Wally and UD. I was so nervous when I went back to Bailey's office. He complimented me on my interview, my audition on the noon news and told me what plans he had for me to join the 5:00 and 6:00 pm newscasts as the sports anchor. After about 30 minutes, he pulled out an envelope, and said "take a few minutes to read our offer to you. We can discuss any questions you have, as well as a start date for you when you're finished."
I could not believe what I read. The offer was for $75 thousand per year, with bonuses paid for sweep ratings and an annual merit increase. I jumped at the offer, since it was at least $15 to $20 thousand more than what I expected to earn in a Midwest market. Bailey was smiling at me and said "do you have any idea of when you can start with us Ronny?" I replied to him saying "I need to wrap up some things at home in Indiana, as well as moving some items and bringing my vehicle down here. I know my mom will want to have a family gathering for me before I leave. Does July 31st sound good to you Bailey?" Bailey said "sounds perfect, as that date works out well here for the schedule. Get everything done that you need to at home and contact me when you're back in town. I'll get you in here for some introduction commercials and have you and Paul work on some stories together in advance of your start date."
So, everyone that's my story and I'm sticking to it! Seriously though, I spent the rest of the week with CJ, Alex and Wally. I asked Alex to join me on my return trip to Florida starting July 5th. I picked him up at the Indianapolis airport, and introduced him to my parents before we left for Tampa.
I know CJ and I have always sworn to be best friends and brothers for life. Without him in my life, I'd probably be working on the farm and not had the opportunities presented to me in 2023 like I have. I would not have found Alex without him, and I'm not sure I'd be as happy as I am now.
Hopefully, you all have enjoyed the life and times of Ronald J. Bradford, as it's been my pleasure telling everyone about it. CJ Skinner is my guardian angel, and I will never be able to repay him for every positive influence he has passed on to me in my life.
That's it for now everyone, as I need to get ready for work. After work, I need to get back here and keep Alex under control for the rest of the weekend. I'm sure he's on pins and needles waiting to hear from CJ or Wally on how their weekend is going. I'm up for the challenge, and I'll keep my man satisfied this weekend until we hear their great news.