His Alabama broadcasting started in 1961 in Anniston at WDNG. Following a stint at WNUZ in Talladega, he moved to Albertville in 1962 with WQSB where he was involved in announcing and sales positions for five years. After two years as manager of Arab Cablevision, Jim became Sales Manager of WJSU-TV in Anniston for nine years until he purchased WELR-AM/FM from Earl Manning in 1988. The licensee became Eagle's Nest Inc and in 1992 Jim purchased WLAG-AM in LaGrange, Georgia.
Jim's has served his community and industry many leadership roles, they include:
· Alabama Broadcaster of the Year 2003
· President of Alabama Broadcasters 1996 – 1997
· President of Albertville Jaycees
· President of Arab Chamber of Commerce
· Vice President of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce
· Served on Committees for Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce; Military Affairs Committee, Crimestoppers Committee ands Calhoun Leadership Committee
· Active in formation of the Randolph County Chamber of Commerce
· Jacksonville State University Seminars on “How to Buy and Use Advertising”
Jim is married to the former Kay Coleman and they have three children. His hobbies are Ham Radio (WD4KTY), computers and trout fishing.