Nova Scotia Buzz
One of Halifax’s most beloved radio DJ’s and announcers of all time, Jerry Lawrence was widely known as “Jer Bear” and the host of AM 960 CHNS morning show.
His signature radio show, Hello Metro ran for over 25 years on numerous local radio stations. When listeners heard his show’s trademark “One Ringy Dingy… Two Ringy Dingy… Hello Metro!” they knew they were in for a treat and a laugh with Jerry.
Jerry Lawrence started his career in October 1959 at CJCH Halifax and moved to on-air radio in 1964. He took over as morning host at CJCH in Halifax in 1967 then moved to Country 101 CHFX before returning part-time to CJCH. It was in 1985 that he moved to CHNS eventually retiring from broadcasting in 1995.
“Jer Bear” was best known for his prank calls to listeners which had them and the person on the other end of the line rolling on the floor. We searched high and low and have two of those calls for you.
Jerry Lawrence – Hello Metro Call #1
Jerry Lawrence – Hello Metro Call #2
At the age of 12, Jerry became a paraplegic due to polio. That didn’t stop the man from having much success in his career, not only as a broadcaster but as politician. In 1978 he was elected into the Nova Scotia Legislature as an MLA and was successful getting re-elected in 1981, 1984 and 1988.
He was appointed Minister of Government Services in 1979 and served in the roll until 1985.
In his time in office, he was instrumental in having the Nova Scotia Government adopt handicapped parking and is noted for making Nova Scotia more handicapped friendly during his time in office.
