Syracuse, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Mike Price, a legendary figure in Central New York broadcasting, passed away at the age of 87.
Price retired from NewsChannel 9 on July 9, 2008, concluding a 46-year tenure at WNYS-TV/WIXT-TV/WSYR-TV.
On September 2, 1962, Mike Price became part of the team at “Colorful Channel 9” in Syracuse, which was then known as WNYS-TV, just days prior to the channel’s inaugural broadcast.
Just a few months after assuming his role, he introduced the character of Baron Daemon, who would become defining for him throughout the remainder of his life.
The clumsy vampire started hosting weekend late-night movies, but parents protested that their children refused to sleep, worried about not catching all the excitement. In response, the channel swiftly introduced an afternoon kids’ program called “The Baron and His Friends.”
“Baron and His Buddies,” which ran from 1962 to 1967 during weekday afternoons, featured Baron alongside a lively studio audience composed of children. Over the years, this group grew into the thousands, with numerous individuals recalling their time participating as grown-ups.
During the latter part of his professional journey, Price delivered “good news” to Central New York audiences. For many years, his segment concluded NewsChannel 9’s broadcasts, highlighting uplifting and joyous community events, frequently including trips to nearby schools.
Upon retiring in 2008, Price remarked, “I believe I’ve made some contributions to our community… This gives me a strong sense of satisfaction. It’s incredibly rewarding whenever individuals approach me nearly daily to share, ‘We really appreciate all that you do!'”
As quoted by NewsChannel 9’s Tim Fox upon Price departing from the station: “For as far back as anyone here can recall, Mike has always been a familiar friend,” he stated. “He stands out among Central New York’s most active volunteers, master of ceremonies, and public speakers. Whether it’s organizing telethons, participating in parades, or handling events at the Great New York State Fair, he approaches everything with an upbeat attitude.”
In 1991, at around 55 years old, Price was summoned to active service to participate in the Gulf War. He had been part of the Coast Guard Reserves for three decades before stepping down with the rank of chief petty officer.
Following his deployment, Price created an award-winning documentary titled “Into the Gulf.”
Mike spent his childhood in Syracuse and Utica, pursued higher education at Syracuse University, and received training in broadcasting at the Academy of Broadcasting Arts in New York City.
He spent a season playing freshman football for SU, scrimmaging Ernie Davis and the ‘59 National Championship.
Following school, Mike kicked off his broadcasting journey at WSOQ Radio in North Syracuse.
He has been honored with the top awards from the Syracuse Press Club, such as a place on the SPC Wall of Distinction which is showcased at the Onondaga County Civic Center.
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