No, I’m not referring to any popularity poll or anything of the sort. I am referring to the homage Calypso radio paid to the late, unforgettable Charles Arrigo.

I have reason to believe that it was only this station – I stand to be corrected – which took the initiative to broadcast the funeral Mass from the Naxxar parish church. I would have thought that more TV and radio stations would have felt it their duty to do the same considering what this icon of broadcasting has contributed to this sector. I do not wish to think that what this source of abundant knowledge and information had given willingly and freely to all those who wanted to learn is not appreciated. Or is it a case of a prophet not being recognised in his own country?

All of us who had the pleasure and honour of working with this walking encyclopaedia of broadcasting are very proud and grateful for all he has done for and with us and for the whole nation, not only in broadcasting but also in other fields in which his many talents shone through. No doubt local broadcasting would not be in the pitiful state it is in today had many more people followed his example and learned from Charles.

Unfortunately, Charles is no longer with us but let’s hope that his encyclopaedic knowledge will not be wasted and that we will make good use of it in order to see a marked improvement in broadcasting, among other things. May the good suggestions, of a foundation for one, that were made in order to help improve the levels of broadcasting, public reading and the rest, be taken up, carefully studied and put into practice. This would be a living memorial to Charles Arrigo, which no doubt he would dearly appreciate and which we could all benefit from.

A. Brincat.

BIRKIRKARA