John Panting and Alex Regiec are both busmen and broadcasters. Transportation was their labour of love for 28+ years but talking into microphone and spinning records for their listeners is their passion.
John attended Red River College majoring in Hospitality and Tourism. Although his early career started in his chosen field, he detoured into transportation attracted by the freedom of the open road. During his career John experienced all aspects from driving the big motor coaches and dispatching drivers to training instructor and eventually Operations Manager for Grey Goose Bus Lines.
While en route, he sat on numerous boards including the Manitoba Safety Council (now Safety
Manitoba), Red River Community Center (vice-President), and Forest Park School (Parent Council President). Together with his wife Wendy, they raised their son Eddie.
John had also taken a broadcasting course which led him to pursue his passion in music by volunteering for thirteen years at nostalgia radio station as both a producer and announcer.
Alex was born and raised in Winnipeg, receiving his master’s degree in City Planning from the University of Manitoba. He is a registered professional City Planner in the Province of Manitoba.
Alex served the board of the Manitoba Transit Heritage Association (President and Treasurer for 11 years), the Winnipeg Association of Public Service Officers (vice-President for 4 years), and co-authored a book entitled “Dusty Trails to Divided Highways: A History of Intercity Bus Lines in Manitoba”.
Alex’s passion for oldies music and smooth jazz led him to volunteer in local community radio as both a producer and announcer for five years.
Join Johnny Lightning and Captain Alex on their musical journey as they dust off the 45 RPMs and spin the turntable welcoming you into the Retro Rec Room for some fun and great memories of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s online at Lifestyles 55 Digital Radio.