Book Description

"A Nickel Can of Pork and Beans, is the autobiographical story of the life and career of Bryan Davidson told in his own humble, homespun and at times quite humorous words. Bryan Davidson enjoyed a long, illustrious career in radio. His fascination with radio began in his early teen years, just as the golden era of broadcasting began. Newly discharged from the U.S. Navy following World War II, he began as an announcer at WSON Henderson, Kentucky. The next several years found him employed in positions of announcer or manager at WIKY Evansville, Indiana, WITZ Jasper, Indiana, WPEO Peoria, Illinois and WRAY Princeton, Indiana. Eventually he and partner, Thomas Land, built, owned and managed WFIW Fairfield, Illinois, and WJBD Salem, Illinois. While he had written reams of radio commercials, this book, a record of his life, was Mr. Davidsons first attempt at narrative writing; and it chronicles his successes and his failures. His intended purpose for this memoir was to attest to his strong faith in Jesus Christ. He also hoped that his story might inspire young people to hold onto their dreams, regardless of financial hardship, temporary setbacks or discouragement. From his own experiences, he knew that dreams can be fulfilled and goals can be achieved, Life in a small Alabama coal-mining town during the Great Depression was hard as dried jerky and twice as tough. Mr. Davidsons recollections of his fathers years of working in coal mines and his mothers fierce determination to feed themselves and their only child is a tribute to the American spirit. Interlaced with humor, pathos and drama, Mr. Davidsons written words echo his distinctive radio voice. Against all odds, Bryan Davidson built and maintained a successful radio station in Salem, Illinois, one that continues to thrive and serve the community well.