Rick Allen has been at KBZY "Salem's First Choice" off and on since 1987. Rick Allen celebrates 23 years in Salem area radio.

"I remember quite well, listening to 1490 KBZY as a teen growing up in Salem." The best part of working for KBZY is our involvement with the community. Being in touch with you, the radio listener, is really great! I remember at North Salem High School in a speech class this guy behind me says one day, "I'd really love to work someday at KBZY. That is such a cool station!"

He went on to work in the Post Office. I actually did get to live his dream and mine. For me to work at a Salem institution such as 1490 KBZY is quite an honor. It is too much to be believed. I love this place, man!

I grew up in Southern California on the beach, moving with my family to Salem, Oregon in 1968 and went to North High where I carried "Vickie's" books to school for her. By 1973 she accepted my proposal. I had to leave Salem, Oregon in 1970 to protect our country from the evil forces...I spent eight years in the US Navy protecting and serving in places west of here...Hawaii mostly...I returned in 1978 and have been in local radio since.

Rick has two children, a son, (like dad) is a North Salem High School graduate. He has his art degree from Portland College, and is currently traveling the European Continent. His daughter, a recent graduate from the University of Portland has her Master Degree.

Most importantly to Rick, the most wonderful woman that supports him so much, his bride.

"Love is the reason."

Please drop me a line at allenr@kbzy.com.