South Jersey Mourns the Passing of Barbara Altman, First Lady of the Airwaves

By Nancy Adler

“Your reputation precedes you. Please join me as my guest on my radio show,” said Barbara Altman . That day an extraordinary woman and exceptionally caring friend entered my life.  Today, all who knew and loved Barbara mourn the passing of the First Lady of The Airwaves in South Jersey.

Barbara Altman was born in Ventnor, where she was a lifelong resident. She was one of 5 children, being the eldest of her four brothers. Barbara attended Ventnor City Public Schools and Atlantic City High School. She went on to graduate  from Glassboro State College.

Barbara started her career in broadcasting over 45 years ago. She was the first woman to broadcast on the first FM station in Atlantic County. Then it was WOSJ FM which now is WMGM FM. Barbara went on to host her own radio show, “Barbara Altman’s Front Porch” on NewsTalk 1400 AM WOND which she will always be remembered for.

Over the years she was the well deserved recipient of the Howard L. Green Humanitarian Award and earned her way into The Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, which she was most proud of.

Barbara Altman was the Director of the Atlantic City Marathon for over 17 years. She selflessly was an advocate for The Community Food Bank of South Jersey Southern Branch. She also was the author of two books, “I will Win” and “The Spirit of Many Faces.”

I remember as a teenager Barbara and her husband Ed would come to play tennis at the Ventnor tennis courts each morning as I sat at the front desk and took their reservation. I recall her kind smile and elegance. Little did I know then thst she would be an intricate part of my life many years later as she paved the way for women in broadcasting. Thank you Barbara for your endless encouragement to host my very own radio show.

I will always cherish how she welcomed me to her show on every Tuesday morning at 10:30 for 8 years as we shared the gift of health with her avid And loyal listening audience. When the mic was turned off, Barbara  and I shared family, friends and life stories. Her love for of the zodiac would always lighten up any conversation.  Most of all we shared hugs and memories that will fill my heart forever .

May the angels surround you Barbara as you are now joined with your beloved husband Ed running on that long boardwalk in the sky. Condolences go to her daughter Jennifer, her son Dan and his wife Kim. Her brother Ed who would call into her show often. The light of Barbara’s life was her granddaughter, Joelle.

“Life Is Not A Dress Rehearsal” ~ Barbara Altman

Nancy Adler is a certified nutritionist and practitioner in Linwood. Her office is located in Cornerstone Commerce Center, 1201 New Rd. Learn about her practice at ww.nancyadlernutrition.com (609)653-4900

You may listen to Nancy every Sunday at 2 pm Nancy Adler Nutrition LIVE! NewsTalk 1400 WOND