The Haunting Of The Bayville Studios

Friday the 13th seems like just the right time for a good ghost story.

Now that the Hawk is settling into its temporary nest here in a beautiful section of Ocean County, I'm finding out that there's more to this building than I imagined.

Let me first say, I love this place.  I felt welcomed as soon as I walked through the doors to do my first show on-air.

I don't know about you, but I've always felt that buildings have a "feel" to them.  They have a vibe, so to speak.

And this one's good.

A few of my co-workers agree:  this place is good energy.

Now on to the really good part.

I think we may have a spirit.

Why do I think that?  Because someone I work with whose job requires him to be very logical, rational, "left-brain" in his thinking (and who's very good at what he does), told me so.

The ghost's name is Tom Maciaszek, A.K.A. "Mr. Maze", and he worked here for many years.

Radio-info.com describes Tom as a man who was a familiar voice on the Jersey Shore's WOBM-AM/FM (1160/92.7) stations (the Hawk's sister stations).  He was also remembered as a "jack-of-all-trades" at the stations for some 30 years.  Described as "a central NJ radio institution" by some, he died in 2008.

My co-worker says he's still here.

And according to him, he makes his presence known at night (I know, I know, could he be more predictable?).  In fact, he has been known to open a door or two when this co-worker is carrying something and needs a hand.

The tale is told that when WOBM changed its format in 2010 from Adult Standards/MOR (Tom's baby) to "Good Time Oldies", technical issues sprang up immediately and the oldies wouldn't play.

In fact, both AM and FM stations promptly went off air around 4 a.m. that morning and when the manufacturer of the radio system was consulted, they reported they couldn't find any technical reason why the stations went off the air.

I hear the theme to The Twilight Zone.

I'll say this much.  I haven't seen or felt a specific presence/personality myself, but if he's the one helping make the building feel homey and warm, then I hope he sticks around.

And continues to give us a hand when we need it.

Hey, it's always good to have friends.

Do you believe in ghosts?  Have any stories of your own?  I'd love to hear them.  Share them in the comment section below and I'll mention them on-air!