Residents and listeners across the Northern Neck now have a new voice to tune in to every Wednesday afternoon. RWC resident John “Johnny D” Dickman is the host of a weekly radio show on Windy (WWND) 103.9 FM in White Stone, airing from noon to 2 p.m.
Originally from Panama City, Florida, John grew up in a military family and attended 13 different schools before graduating from high school. During his time in Colorado Springs, music became the center of his world. He played in a rock-and-roll band, traveled extensively, and carried his love of music with him throughout his life.
Although his career took him into the construction and maintenance trades, eventually managing large commercial buildings, music was always close at hand. For more than a decade, John also built guitars and stayed deeply connected to the music scene.
After years in Sarasota, Florida, John found his way into radio almost by accident. While volunteering at a local station and performance venue, he learned the technical side of broadcasting. Station staff quickly recognized his passion and natural ability and soon offered him his own show. What started as a volunteer opportunity turned into a 10-year run behind the microphone.
His show, “Blues to Bluegrass,” features a wide range of music styles, from early acoustic blues to contemporary artists, with everything in between. John enjoys mixing genres, eras, and artists to keep the show fresh and engaging. “I get bored hearing the same thing,” he said. “So I mix it up. It’s always changing.”
John and his wife, Celeste, moved to RWC in November, drawn by the community’s strong reputation and personal family connections. Celeste’s parents and aunt were RWC residents years ago, and the couple remembered the warmth of the community.
Now just a few months into life at RWC, John says the transition has been a positive one. He appreciates the rural setting, the welcoming residents, and the friendly staff. “From the minute I got here, everyone has been so nice and accommodating,” he said. “You can be yourself here and be as involved as you want to be.”
When he’s not on the air, John enjoys volunteering. In Florida, he spent years working with Second Heart Homes, an organization that provides housing and care for mentally challenged homeless individuals. He helped renovate homes and handled maintenance issues, work he describes as deeply meaningful and rewarding.
John’s move to RWC didn’t mean leaving radio behind. After arriving on campus, he learned about the local Windy 103.9 station in White Stone. With the help of RWC Vice President of Operations Phil Williams, who connected him with the station’s owner, John soon found himself back behind the microphone and launching his own show once again. He has already completed several shows and is excited to connect with listeners in the area.
Under his on-air name, “Johnny D,” he invites the community to tune in each Wednesday from noon to 2 p.m. for a musical journey from blues to bluegrass and everything in between.
