Simon Pontin Retires ROCHESTER, NY (WXXI) - Simon Pontin was born in Reading, in Berkshire, England, and moved to the United States when he was 16 years old. Two years later he joined the Air Force, where he was trained to repair broadcast equipment.

After his discharge he worked at Eastman Kodak and moonlighted as host on WBBF, which at that time was Rochester's classical music station. The station later became WBFB, but then changed its format and Simon was let go. But less than a year later he accepted a job with WXXI-FM.

33 years later, Simon has decided to retire from the airwaves. Community response has been overwhelming, with listener tributes, memories and good wishes pouring in to WXXI. Mayor Robert Duffy offered a proclamation in Simon's honor to thank him for his dedication to the community.

Simon's final show will be Saturday's edition of Salmagundy. Starting next week Simon Pontin travel, build model railroads and enjoy life as a WXXI listener. © Copyright 2009, WXXI