BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2023 AUGUST 28) – In Blair, Nebraska, Jackie Mahr isn’t just a voice on the radio; she’s a trusted friend, a guiding spirit, and a pillar of the community. Known fondly as the “RADIO GAL”, Jackie has dedicated her life to serving others, both on and off the air. Her story, a tapestry of faith, service, and dedication, paints a vivid picture of a woman committed to spreading the “Good News” and uplifting those around her.
“I had been praying the prayer of Jabez, (1st Chronicles 4:10) as a 30-day challenge to ‘enlarge my border’ and felt led by the Lord to start a radio program on AM660 KCRO- back in 2000,” Jackie begins, her eyes shining with the memory. It wasn’t just about being on the radio, but about giving a platform to women, “Especially as to how they are uniquely serving the Lord.“
Jackie’s spiritual journey, significantly influenced by the Jabez Prayer, led her to perceive her career in a divine light. “After I started my show… I saw that the radio station could really use my help in getting their message out as well. So, I went to the GM and offered my services… God had indeed created the perfect position for me – and I’ve been on commission ever since! 20+ years!~“
Mahr’s extensive involvement in the business realm, particularly with her family’s car repair business, spanned an impressive 40 years. This experience provided foundational business lessons, influencing her work in the radio industry. She reflects, “My husband, Lonnie and I have been married 54 years in October! He co-owned Mahr Bros. Gasoline Alley for over 40 years and I did the front desk and books.. We learned very quickly that offering a product or service with reasonable prices and excellent customer service is a win-win in business… to which I adhere to today.“
Transitioning from a background in Fashion Merchandising and Modeling to radio might seem unconventional, but for Jackie, it provided unique insights. “Looking people in the eye, smiling and shaking hands is just good business. Merchandising is the art of promoting and selling goods – in creative ways. Some people are artists, musicians, singers ~ I am a promoter of all good things, especially radio!“
In addition to her professional commitments, Jackie has been deeply involved in poverty alleviation, translating her passion into impactful action. She enthusiastically shares, “I love to work with non-profit ministries helping them tell their story… It thrills my soul to find someone helped by someone we have on air or a unique donor come on board to volunteer or help fund that ministry.“
But perhaps the most touching moments in her career come from the personal connections she has forged. Recalling one such poignant memory, Jackie says, “One moment that blesses me to recall is when I did my show on the Chaplain Training program… a man from western Nebraska came up to me and said that I was the reason he was here… he felt the leading of the Lord to sign up for Chaplain training to help other truckers.“
Peering into the future, Jackie’s commitment remains unwavering. Her heartfelt invitation to the community is clear: “From here I’m not sure what’s in store. But if I can be of help to anyone in the vicinity ~ please don’t hesitate to contact me! 😊“
For Blair, Nebraska, Jackie Mahr isn’t just a radio personality; she’s a beacon of hope, faith, and inspiration. With every broadcast, she reaches out, touching hearts, lifting spirits, and reminding everyone that in a world full of noise, there are still voices that resonate with love and purpose.
Contact Jackie at KCRO at jackie@walnutradio.com or phone (402) 422-1600.
