This headline, “La CaƱada resident Royal Oakes honored by L.A. City Council for 30 years of commentary” posted yesterday, warmed my heart.”I met Royal 26 years ago when I was the brand new soaking-wet-behind-the-ears Los Angeles Superior Court Director of Public Information and Royal was providing commentary for KNX-AM all-news radio station. The news du jour was the Rodney King beating-trial verdicts that prompted days-long rioting in Los Angeles. He and I interacted countless times in the course of numerous high-profile trials. He was consistently professional, respectful and, in his capacity as Radio Television News Association’s general counsel, enormously helpful.
He is so deserving of this honor by the Los Angeles City Council. I have the highest regard for him and wish him well. I’m glad his radio program, “The Royal Oakes Show” is available via podcast.