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WSQK The Squawk, ʎɐᗡ ʇsɐ⅂ ǝuO

- transcript from January 1, 2026

part 3 of my transcribing WSQK - audio from this site.

Here's the transcript for the New Year's Day broadcast from the Squawk - very long post ahead (not even full - if you want to see the full document, message me for google drive link! in this post I could include only hours 12Am - 8Am and then 1Pm - 11Pm.)

Includes Mindy & Vance talks, the Update reports, mentions which shops sponsors were used as ads, and also features all of the songs played at that day.

Don't open Read More if you don't want to scroll for about 60 pages!

12AM / midnight on New Year’s Eve

[Stranger Things clock chiming sound effect]

[static, white noise. thunderstorm sound]

Vance:

Hawkins, do you copy? Over. [more static] Can you hear us, Hawkins?

Is the WSQK still transmitting? That darn tower! [more static and other sounds] We have no power. Let me push these buttons here. Reboot that. Give that old machine a bit of a [hitting sound] smack there. [beeping and powering up sounds]

Vance:

[clear sound] Wow, that actually worked. Yeah, we’re back. And it looks like all the important stuff is working? Let me just check the, uh, [chicken sound]. Haha, yup. Look alive, Chicken. [chuckles]

What just happened to the WSKQ tower? Man, that thing must be fried [static noise]. Something went pop up there, for sure, I mean, but the good news is, of course, if- if we just, you know, fall down hard and can’t get back up, at least you can pull and bobbin tom (?) a little bit better, once we’re out of the way.

One final test, though. Will the tunes work on back up power? Otherwise, uh well, it’s just you and me, Hawkins, and no one wants that. Wish me luck.

The Final Countdown - Europe [starts playing]

Vance:

Yes! Yes! WSQK might be on life support, but we’re still hanging in there for you, Hawkins. Oh, what an ironic song choice this is right now! My bad, Hawkins. I mean, it’s still a tune, though, so, turn it up, whilst you still can. Let’s go out swinging.

It’s The Final Countdown - Europe [continues]

Into The Groove - Madonna

Vance:

Nobody panic! That humming sound is just the backup power giving us everything it's got. It’s the Squawk across Hawkins and I’m Vance Goodman. Just, uh, just checking on things here.

If you’ve just turned your radio on, then, uh well, [chuckles] have you missed some drama! At midnight on New Year’s Eve the WSQK tower decided to go bye-bye. There were sparks and lots of colors, and a nice big boom [explosion sound effect]. So now we’re limping on backup power. We’ve only got enough juice to go until 11PM tonight, but we’ve decided that- to heck with all this. We’re going out with a bang, Hawkins! And, are you with us? [cheering audience] Man, I love this town. Let’s hit it.

Never Ending Story - Limahl

Master of Puppets - Metallica

99 Red Balloons (99 Luftballons) - Nena

Vance:

We’re - for now - WSQK the Squawk. Vance Goodman is my name, and I’m spinning records like that all day and night long. Actually, uh no, a quick caveat - only until 11PM tonight. But aside from that, yeah, all of that. That’s when we’re on the air until, Hawkins, 11PM.

So I want you to sing every tune at the top of your voice, blast the tubular tunes out of your boombox, and air-guitar all the way down Maple Street. Listen like no one is watching. And it would be kinda weird if they were anyway.. unless you’re on TV.

We’ll be right back after this!

AD Break (Palace arcade)

I Hate Myself From Loving You - Joan Jett & The Blackheart

The Logical Song - Supertramp

Alive And Kicking - Simple Minds

Vance:

I don’t know if it’s just me, but the songs right now, they’re hitting different today. And I checked, and I’m definitely not playing the 45s on 33 or the 33s at 78. It just feels like there’s a hidden meaning in each and every single track that I play.

It is WSQK the Squawk [chicken sound] and I’m Vance Goodman, and I won’t be able to say it for that much longer, so let’s all treasure these moments together. If you’ve missed the drama at midnight - it was, uhh, explosive [explosion sound effect]. The WSQK tower decided to go: [various mouth sound effects by Vance - explosions, some creatures gurgling, screeching and a high pitched short death squeal]. Haha, yeah it sounded something like that.

It means WSQK will be no more after 11PM tonight, but, uh, in true Squawk fashion - we ain’t leaving quietly [chicken sound]. No no no no no no no no, sir-e. So, crank this one up to eleven, if we’ve got enough power - which we do, for now.

Who’s Crying Now - Journey

The Look Of Love - ABC

Vance:

Oh, hold on, Hawkins, two seconds. Note to Vance Goodman: Play that song at least one more time before WSQ- WSQK goes caput at 11PM. Yes, yes, I think I will.

It’s the Squawk [chicken sound] and apparently we still have bills to pay, even though we’re shutting down. So, uh, here’s a few words from some of Hawkins’ finest.

AD Break

Enzo’s restaurant:

Hey, Hawkins. Looking for a place where family, friends and flavor come together? Come on down to Enzo’s Restaurant. From hearthy pastas to chicken parmaziana. We’ve got the perfect meal for every appetite! Don’t forget our famous homemade deserts - they’re so good they might just disappear before your eyes. Enzo’s Restaurant, hop on down for the best italian in Hawkins.

Hawkins Video:

Friday night plans? Make it a movie night with Hawkins Video - Hawkins home for all the biggest hits and hidden gems. From action to comedy, horror to romance. We’ve got tapes for every taste. Too many tapes, not enough time? We’ve got you. The rental of the week is: Robocop. Grab your popcorn, grab a flick, and make it a family movie night with Hawkins Video, where every movie is an eleven-out-of-ten.

---

Hold The Line - Toto

Vance:

Okay, so there’s good news and bad news, Hawkins. The bad news - we’re running on backup power and are hours away from being shut down. But! The good news is - it’s Dial-A-Dedication day on WSQK the Squawk. So let’s celebrate with your last shout-outs.

Starting with a big one from Natalie. She wants to dedicate the airwaves to Joyce Byers, leader, legend, mom. She is quite the lady, all star. Natalie says Joyce reminds her of the saying, and I quote, “No matter how dark things get, your people will always find you.”

That’s some pretty deep stuff there, and uh, and an honor to pass that message on.

This next tune is for you, Natalie and Joyce. It’s WSQK the Squawk.

Shout - Tears For Fears

The Ghost In You - The Psychedelic Furs

Vance:

Vance Goodman on WSQK the Squawk, the voice for Hawkins. Stay right where you are, because I’m about to hand over the mic to the Hawkins Update Guy, who can shed some light on all the goings-on across Hawkins, and uh, man, it’s been eventful, is one of the words I’d use. Uh, some of the other ones you can’t really say on the radio. But anyway, don’t touch that dial, Hawkins. More hits are queued up next.

AD Break (Palace Arcade)

UPDATE

Time now for one of my final Hawkins updates, bringing you the latest from right here in Hawkins on the last day of WSQK.

Town officials are asking residents to check in on their neighbours after last night’s big New Year’s Eve celebrations across Hawkins.

While there were a few minor reports of teenagers causing mischief, and a lot of them expected bangs, which had been put down to a questionable batch of fireworks, the majority of Hawkins will be carrying on with their usual and everyday lives. With a sore attitude, I imagine.

One Town Official said, “The community spirit in Hawkins is what makes us proud to live in this town, why would you want to live anywhere else?”

However, one casualty of last night’s celebrations was the WSQK broadcast tower - at exactly midnight the station’s signal went offline and the Squawk is now operating on backup power. The tower’s beyond repairs and the WSQK the Squawk will cease broadcasting at 11PM this evening.

Locals are sending positive farewell messages into the studio. This one reads: “I will miss the incredible presenters at WSQK including the incredibly funny Vance Goodman.” Right, who put that in my script, Vance? Was that you?

[chicken sound]

And if anyone wants to adopt that Chicken it’s free to a good home, okay?

And lastly: The town is dealing with a major New Year’s Day shortage - of waffles and chocolate pudding cups. Stores across Hawkins are reporting that deliveries haven’t been arriving over the last few days, and the shelves are empty of just those two products.

Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, share breakfast or - if you’re feeling adventurous - experiment with eggs on toast.

I’m pretty sure we can get through this major incident, Hawkins. We’ve gotten through worse.

That’s the latest from right here at Hawkins on the last day of WSQK. More in an hour.

(62min)

Vance:

Yeah, the rumours are true, Hawkins. It’s the last day of WSQK [disappointed audience sound effect]. That's kind of a little bit more of a difficult thing to say than I thought it’d be. It’s Vance Goodman here and yeah, we might be on backup power and the WSQK tower [slight signal interference, sounding like lights flickering] might have given up on us, but we’re not giving up on you just yet.

We came out swinging out of this Hawkins basement and we’re gonna go down swinging, sugar. So come on, let’s do this for the last day of the Squawk, Hawkins. [chicken sound]. Look alive, Chicken!

Sweet Child O’ Mine - Guns N’ Roses

Dream A Little Dream Of Me - Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong

Vance:

This is WSQK and welcome on board the good ship Squawk [chicken sound, ship bell sound] Ahoy there, ladies. [chuckles] Oh, god, I really need to stop doing that.

Mindy Flare and I will be bringing WSQK into dock at 11PM tonight, and yeah, the waters are gonna be choppy due to the WSQK signal [loony tunes jumping sound effect], and that’s about it with the sea references [splash sound effect].

But what we’re never quit doing is playing Hawkins the biggest hits, just like this-- well until we quit, then you’re gonna have to like, I don’t know, meet us in the park with a record player.

Rebel Yell - Billy Idol

Sunglasses At Night - Corey Hart

I Want To Know What Love Is - Foreigner

Vance:

This is [chicken sound] the Squawk, WSQK, Vance Goodman holding down the fort for now. We might be counting down to 11PM when the Squawk is no more, but, Hawkins, you deserve the good stuff until then, the tracks I’ve saved for an occasion just like this.

Well, really it’s just the songs I’ve not been allowed to play before. So I’ll play one of those next, because we’re gonna send the Squawk off just right.

AD Break (Squawk, Hawkins Video)

People Are People - Depeche Mode

Cloudbusting - Kate Bush

Vance:

Say the letters with me, Hawkins. For one of the last few times we get to do this. W-S-Q-K. Give yourself a pat on the back for that, Hawkins [applause sound effect]. I’m Vance Goodman, and, Hawkins, can I just say - this town is hands-down the best town in all of America. Hah, funny story, though - a person once told me that you can’t spell America without Erica, and that still knocks me over. Pretty cool fact.

Sorry, where was I? Oh, yeah, this town it’s special, it has that infectious energy. The community spirit is always there and there’s just these bonds of friendship everywhere you look. They’ll last forever. So, to you, our WSQK listeners: stick with us for as long as you can, and as a reward we’ll keep spinning the biggest hits for Hawkins all the way until 11PM. Believe it.

Kyrie - Mr. Mister

Twist of Fate - Olivia Newton-John

Vance:

It’s WSQK the Squawk, Vance Goodman still in the chair, still pressing buttons, still believing one more song never hurt anybody. Hawkins, today is the day we’ll never forget. [clears throat] I got something important to say, so I got to do the throat clear thing. These are the good times. This town knows how to come together and that’s what you’re doing right now. Never change, Hawkins.

Um, also, [laughs] you’re welcome for hearing my bones creak. That’s how much we’re invested in this thing, we’re literally gonna give you what’s left of ourselves, to this last day of broadcasting.

Anyway, I’m gonna get you back to the music real soon, after this.

AD Break (Starcourt Mall, Scoops Ahoy)

Is There Something I Should Know? - Duran Duran

Vance:

You’re locked into the Squawk with me, Vance Goodman, and it may be the end of everything as we know it. But! We’re keeping these final shout-outs rolling. We wanna give you some of the last words on this station.

This next Dedication comes from Eddie, who’s on his way to get a Hellfire tattoo. Sounds like you’re onto a winner there, dude, but uh, proceed with caution, my friend.

And we have a special shout-out now for someone who left us too soon. “Barb, we’ll always leave a spare seat at the table for you.”

Here’s a song for you, and my man Eddie, from the whole of Hawkins.

The Riddle - Nik Kershaw

Can’t Fight This Feeling - REO Speedwagon

Vance:

We’re the - soon to be were - Hawkins Hitmaker, WSQK the Squawk [chicken sound]. Well, thank you, Chicken, and let me just say - it has been a pleasure working alongside you. [chicken sound].

And another hour might be done, but it’s not our last hour together. We’ve got plenty of time left to crank it up to eleven. If you don’t know by now - our volume always needs to go up to eleven. In fact I think it starts and ends at eleven. But that may be because it’s broken. But it’s good, though! Cause Eleven--[cuts off]

AD Break (Bradley’s Big Buy [with weird signal interferences / battle sounds], Hawkins Hardware)

UPDATE

Time now for one of my final Hawkins updates, bringing you the latest from right here in Hawkins on the last day of WSQK.

Community spirit is running high in Hawkins today as residents come together in the wake of last night’s town-wide incident. An event for which authorities are releasing remarkable little information.

Reports vary - some citizens claim they heard loud, unsettling animal noises echoing across the outskirts of town, while others insist the night was perfectly calm and quiet.

Officials continue to advise calm, noting that the investigation is ongoing, though they may remain tight-lipped about what exactly they’re investigating.

In typical Hawkins fashion, the community seems more united and more curious than ever.

Hawkins is a strange old place, isn’t it?

WSQK is now broadcasting on backup power, and with a reduced transmission signal due to a critical failure at the radio tower shortly after midnight.

One employee here at WSQK said the tower made a loud bang followed by a very concerning sizzle. I guess we’re less 50-thousand Watts now and more 5-Watts.

All attempts to restore the tower have failed, therefore WSQK the Squawk has announced it’ll officially cease broadcasting at 11PM this evening. Indeed I’m looking for a new job right now, don’t I?

And the first baby of the year has been born in Hawkins. And it’s twins! Casey and Holly Collins were born at eleven minutes past midnight. The proud parents say the twins are healthy, happy and already showing signs of sibling rivalry.

One reportedly stole the other’s blanket within minutes of being born. Though the parents admit they were not expecting ‘buying two of everything’ to begin quite so dramatically.

That’s the latest from right here at Hawkins on the last day of WSQK. More in an hour.

(122min)

Vance:

Vance Goodman here on WSQK the Squawk [chicken sound]. I’m gonna miss you.

And even on backup power we’re still going full throttle [car engine revving sound effect], no slowdowns, no surrender, pedal to the metal, who’s with me? Your Hawkins Hitmaker is going strong all the way until 11PM.

Fernando - ABBA

Never Gonna Give You Up - Rick Astley

Vance:

You’re dialed in to the Hawkins Hitmaker. This is WSQK the Squawk, and yeah, today’s our last day. But we’ll have no sour faces, turn that frown upside down, Hawkins. Uh, tomorrow morning might be for coffee and contemplation, no seriously - I need to work out what I’m gonna do next - but today is all about you, Hawkins.

I’m spinning the records you love all the way until 11PM and we shut this thing down with style. And this record, yeah, this is a Goodman Goldie, and it’s for you on WSQK.

R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A. - John Mellencamp

Enola Gay - Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For - U2

Vance:

Hawkins, it’s WSQK and I’m playing hits like there’s no tomorrow. But, heh, seriously there is no tomorrow for us here at the Squawk [chicken sound]. But, you know, the bird is still squawking, and uh, Hawkins, it seems like you’re still listening, so I’ll be back next with a record that’s uh- it’s going to flip this town upside down, of course.

AD Break (Rink-o-Rama)

Highway To Hell - AC/DC

Life In A Northern Town - The Dream Academy

Dancing In The Dark - Bruce Springsteen

Vance:

These records are exactly what we need to hear today, Hawkins. The town is coming together and that famous Hawkins community spirit is alive and well. Don’t underestimate it. It’s WSQK, I’m Vance Goodman, and if you’re just tuning in, [laughs] you have picked a time! Let’s just say that on New Year’s Eve the WSQK tower got a little too excited and went fully [loony tunes sound effect] upside down. So, we’re riding the backup power like it’s a borrowed skateboard.

We’ve got some time left, it’s been a while that I’ve looked at my watch, that’s not gonna help. We’re broadcasting until 11PM tonight, at least we’re hoping so anyway. So, in the intervening time: let’s make it loud, let’s make it count! Hawkins, only positivity here right now, let’s go.

Is It A Sin? - Al Hazan

Who Wants To Live Forever - Queen

Danger Zone - Kenny Loggins

Vance:

[chicken sound] See, the chicken is clocking, because it loves that totally awesome wicked tune here on WSQK. I’m Vance Goodman on the final day of the Squawk. Management here at WSQK has asked me to thank our sponsors.

Hang on, [various sounds of searching for something][mumbling off mic] that’s flux capacitor. [back on mic] Alright, okay, so - a big thank you to: Scoops Ahoy, Enzo’s, Bradley’s Big Buy, Hawkins Video, Hawkins Hunting & Camping, The Starcourt Mall, Hawkins Community Pool, Rink-o-Rama, Hawkins Fried Chicken and the Palace Arcade.

And yeah, if you have any vacancies, you know, hit me up. [clears throat] Ready for a- for a nearly immediate start.

Anyway, more of Hawkins biggest tunes on the way next.

AD Break (Starcourt Mall, Melvald’s General Store)

Heroes - David Bowie

Vance:

It’s WSQK and we’re Dialing-A-Dedication all day. It’s Vance Goodman keeping things moving for the last time here on the Squawk [chicken sound]. And this next dedication is for George and Sammy. They became friends at the Middle school’s Snowball a few years back and have been joined at the hip ever since. Hey, that’s Snowball for ya! Pretty magical stuff happens there. You tend to, uh, forge bonds in the middle of combat. Especially ones involving sometimes iceballs.

Now we have a song request from Mr. Whatsit?! Mr. Whatsit? Guys, we’re supposed to be checking these before they go on air. I mean, you know, whatever man, this- just holding the weight of the station on my shoulders, but fine, here’s a song for Mr. Whatsit.

Wanted Dear Or Alive - Bon Jovi

Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel

Vance:

There you go - just like that one of my last shows is done and dusted here on the Squawk [chicken sound]. Chalk it up on the board, Chicken, yes! One good thing about WSQK coming to an end at 11PM tonight - we’ll actually find out who has hosted the most shows.

I don’t know, something tells me I don’t think it’ll end up being either myself or Mindy, that’s all I’m saying. But do not go anywhere, Mindy Flare is stepping in next. She is preparing a stack of the biggest hits to play you next. Hang in there, Hawkins!

AD Break (Bradley’s Big Buy, Hawkins Hunting & Camping)

UPDATE

Time now for one of my final Hawkins updates, bringing you the latest from right here in Hawkins on the last day of WSQK.

Hawkins residents are reporting sporadic power outages across town today, with light flickering on and off. The power companies say repairs are underway, though they have provided no explanation for the outages.

Some locals claim the outages follow a pattern, while others say it’s just dodgy 80s wiring and bad luck. Which, to be fair, covers most things around here.

However, in true Hawkins style the community are coming together to support each other. There will be free hot meals served down at Enzo’s until the end of the day, and Melvald’s General Store have announced a ‘Buy 1, Get 1 free’ on replacement lightbulbs if yours have gone pop.

Another thing without power - the WSQK tower. Ah, the irony! At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve the radio tower suffered what experts are calling a ‘critical power spike’. Witnesses - well, when I say that I really mean… me - reported a loud electrical bang followed by a complete loss of power. The damage is irreparable and the station will cease broadcasting at 11PM. Would you like sprinkles with that? - Uh, it’s just me practicing for any upcoming vacancies at Scoops Ahoy in the near future.

And finally - the Hawkins High Marching Band are taking to the streets today with several impromptu performances for residents. Really? Today of all days? That’ll make all those sore heads from New Year’s Eve so much better, won’t it?

The marching band will head through Town’s square and onto the sidewalks of Hawkins. Expect drums, trumpets and cymbals. The marching band leader, Shelley McConnell said: “Our aim is to lift spirits of residents and bring our community closer together. Because Hawkins could really use it right now.”

Let’s hope they can all actually play in time with each other, shall we?

That’s the latest from right here at Hawkins on the last day of WSQK. More in an hour.

(182min)

Mindy:

Hawkins, for the next little while let’s just agree that 11PM doesn’t exist. Let’s make it one of our little rules, okay? No one mentions eleven. I’m Mindy Flare on WSQK the Squawk [chicken sound]. The bird’s still squawking, and I’m still spinning the songs you love, all the way to the finish line at 11PM. Oh, did I just say eleven? Ups.

Should I Stay Or Should I Go - The Clash

Rock Me Amadeus - Falco

Mindy:

You’re locked into Mindy Flare on WSQK the Squawk, and normally I’d say something like: “This is the station that refuses to quit!” But, by the end of today, we are. Yeah at 11PM tonight WSQK is sadly no more. But! Never say never. Am I right? You never know when I’ll be back, causing mischief around Hawkins.

But as it’s New Year’s Day, we don’t want any moo-d-kille-rs [signal interference] here. Just you huge bops, beats and rockin’ songs! And, honestly, I can’t remember what record I lined up for you, this is gonna be a surprise for me too. On the Squawk. Oh nice, it’s a good one!

Up Around The Bend - Creedence Clearwater Revival

West End Girls - Pet Shop Boys

Head Over Heels - Tears For Fears

Mindy:

Hawkins, this is the Squawk, WSQK, with me Mindy Flare. And yes, 11PM is the finish line for tonight, but I’ve got a special reward lined up for all of our biggest listeners. I’ve got the keys to the cupboard with all the good songs.

You know, the songs we’re not normally allowed to play. And if there ever was a day to play them, that day is today. Get ready! I’m dropping one next on WSQK.

AD Break (Hawkins Hunting & Camping, Hawkins Video)

It’s The End Of The World - R.E.M.

Total Eclipse of the Heart - Bonnie Tyler

Don’t Stop Believin’ - Journey

Mindy:

You’re tuned in to the one and only Hawkins Hitmaker, WSQK the Squawk! And yeah, today might just be our last ride, but hey, Hawkins, no sad faces allowed. Flip that frown upside down. This town is and always will be our home. I love this place, but more than anything - this town will be nothing without the people in it [awww audience sound], always looking out for each other. So I’ll do what I do best - spinning your favorite hits all the way through to 11PM on WSQK!

I Missed Again - Phil Collins

Cold As Ice - Foreigner

Shattered Dreams - Johnny Hates Jazz

Mindy:

It’s Mindy Flare on WSQK. Still holding onto the mic for now. Still pressing play for just a little bit longer, and still hoping the power stays on past the 11PM. No? It’s switching off at 11PM exactly? Weird, but okay. Well, in that case, Hawkins, the next one I’m gonna play you, it’s all for you. Let’s celebrate the spirit of this strange and wonderful town the only way we know how, on WSQK.

AD Break (Rink-o-Rama, Scoops Ahoy)

Time After time - Cyndi Lauper

Mindy:

I am loving every single record I’m spinning today on WSQK! It’s Mindy Flare here, delivering your Dial-A-Dedications all day long. Well, until 11PM, then we’re out of power.

Salmon Rory (?) have dialed in with a shout-out to all the brave families, who’ve had to pick up pieces after every wild chapter this town has been through. Nice one, Salmon Rory. This next one is for every survivor in Hawkins. Turn this up on the Squawk [chicken sound].

In a Big Country - Big Country

Africa - Toto

Mindy:

Yeah, I think I deserve some applause for playing you that track [applause sound effect]. It’s a New Year’s Day megahit [punching sound]. But as that track comes to a close, it means we’re creeping even closer to 11PM tonight, as it’s our last day on WSQK. But this isn’t a funeral, Hawkins, we’re not being buried down at the cemetery. We’re flying high and floating all the way up to the sky with huge hits on the Squawk next.

AD Break (Hawkins Hardware, Palace Arcade),

UPDATE (repeated)

Time now for one of my final Hawkins updates, bringing you the latest from right here in Hawkins on the last day of WSQK.

Town officials are asking residents to check in on their neighbours after last night’s big New Year’s Eve celebrations across Hawkins.

While there were a few minor reports of teenagers causing mischief, and a lot of them expected bangs, which had been put down to a questionable batch of fireworks, the majority of Hawkins will be carrying on with their usual and everyday lives. With a sore attitude, I imagine.

One Town Official said, “The community spirit in Hawkins is what makes us proud to live in this town, why would you want to live anywhere else?”

However, one casualty of last night’s celebrations was the WSQK broadcast tower - at exactly midnight the station’s signal went offline and the Squawk is now operating on backup power. The tower’s beyond repairs and the WSQK the Squawk will cease broadcasting at 11PM this evening.

Locals are sending positive farewell messages into the studio. This one reads: “I will miss the incredible presenters at WSQK including the incredibly funny Vance Goodman.” Right, who put that in my script, Vance? Was that you?

[chicken sound]

And if anyone wants to adopt that Chicken it’s free to a good home, okay?

And lastly: The town is dealing with a major New Year’s Day shortage - of waffles and chocolate pudding cups. Stores across Hawkins are reporting that deliveries haven’t been arriving over the last few days, and the shelves are empty of just those two products.

Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, share breakfast or - if you’re feeling adventurous - experiment with eggs on toast.

I’m pretty sure we can get through this major incident, Hawkins. We’ve gotten through worse.

That’s the latest from right here at Hawkins on the last day of WSQK. More in an hour.

(242min)

Mindy:

Yeah, I can’t lie to you, Hawkins, because friends - they don’t lie. Today is the final chapter for WSQK. It’s Mindy Flare here, and sure, we’re on backup power, but we’re still here for you until 11PM. So come on, Hawkins, one more time. Let’s make some noise for the last day of the Squawk [chicken noise].

Everything Counts - Depeche Mode

Centerfold - The J. Geils Band

Mindy:

Hawkins, records like that are what we need today. It’s New Year’s Day across this mighty fine town, and you can feel it out there, can’t you? The town’s pulling together, that classic Hawkins spirit is doing its thing again. We’re WSQK and I’m Mindy Flare, and if you’re just finding us now, well, talk about timing. New Year’s Eve got a little wild at the tower - lights, sparks, the whole deal. And now we’re cruising on backup power. They can’t fix it, but, Hawkins, we’re not gonna let that spoil this show.

Faith - George Michael

Moving In Stereo - The Cars

Love Is A Battlefield - Pat Benatar

Mindy:

Hawkins, it’s WSQK and I’m playing hits like there’s no tomorrow. No, seriously there really is no tomorrow for us here at the Squawk [chicken sound]. And some of the songs we’re

playing today - they just feel like they have kind of a different meaning, you know? You know what I mean, Hawkins. The words, the voices, the little sounds in the background. I’m just taking them all in and enjoying every last second with you, Hawkins. And hang tight for more of the records you love next on the Squawk.

AD Break (Hawkins Video, Bradley’s Big Buy, Rink-o-Rama)

Wipe Out - The Surfaris

Rock You Like A Hurricane - Scorpions

Things Can Only Get Better - Howard Jones

Mindy:

I hope you’re enjoying our one last adventure together on the airwaves across Hawkins. It’s Mindy Flare, and Hawkins, just give me a minute now, I need to thank a few awesome people that work here at WSQK.

So first off - Kaley Coburn, what a gal you are! Bringing us the Scoop every single day.

Then there’s Tammy, who’s still dealing with everyone’s drama at the breakroom out back. And her producer Allen, he’s a pretty quiet guy.

Then there’s the old engineer Bill.

And those other young DJs that I pass occasionally in the corridor. What’s their names again?

[tapping on the glass sound] Yes, Vance. I’m gonna mention you too, chill out!

And of course Vance Goodman. WSQK would be nothing without him.

But we’ll be having no emotional send off here. We’re gonna go out in a blaze of glory all the way until 11PM with records like this.

I Would Die 4 U - Prince

Don’t You (Forget About Me) - Simple Minds

Imagination - Belouis Some

Mindy:

If there’s one thing at the Squawk we can guarantee to you, Hawkins, it’s that we will only play the biggest hits right until the very end. Hi! It’s Mindy Flare with you and we’re gonna take a quick WSQK survey about what song we should play as our final record at 11PM on the Squawk [chicken sound]. And no, Chicken, you don’t get a vote.

I have a feeling that it’s just gonna come down to us, though, like some divine intervention. Weird, huh? We’ll make sure to leave on a high, Hawkins. That’s what WSQK is all about.

AD Break (Enzo’s Restaurant, The Hideaway Bar)

(I Just) Died In Your Arms - Cutting Crew

Mindy:

It’s WSQK and hi! I’m Mindy Flare. And what a day you’ve picked to tune into the Squawk [chicken sound]. It’s our last day, but don’t worry, we’ve still got your shout-outs to get on all day long.

Jama (?) has called in for Dial-A-Dedication and she wants to shout-out Argyle. She says: “Thanks, Argyle, for keeping things loose when everything else gets heavy.” She also says: “Hold on to your butts, brochachos.” Okay, you lost me there, Jama, but you can have a song anyway. Here you go.

This Must Be The Place (Naïve Melody) - Talking Heads

Don’t You Want Me - The Human League

Mindy:

Where have you been? In the coma or something? Haven’t you heard today is all we have left together, Hawkins. Yeah, WSQK is on backup power after the tower had that critical meltdown at midnight. And if you’re not sure what happened at Hawkins last night, I don’t have a clue either - then our Hawkins Update will help you out next on the Squawk.

AD Break (Hawkins Fried Chicken, Hawkins Video)

UPDATE (repeated)

Time now for one of my final Hawkins updates, bringing you the latest from right here in Hawkins on the last day of WSQK.

Community spirit is running high in Hawkins today as residents come together in the wake of last night’s town-wide incident. An event for which authorities are releasing remarkable little information.

Reports vary - some citizens claim they heard loud, unsettling animal noises echoing across the outskirts of town, while others insist the night was perfectly calm and quiet.

Officials continue to advise calm, noting that the investigation is ongoing, though they may remain tight-lipped about what exactly they’re investigating.

In typical Hawkins fashion, the community seems more united and more curious than ever.

Hawkins is a strange old place, isn’t it?

WSQK is now broadcasting on backup power, and with a reduced transmission signal due to a critical failure at the radio tower shortly after midnight.

One employee here at WSQK said the tower made a loud bang followed by a very concerning sizzle. I guess we’re less 50-thousand Watts now and more 5-Watts.

All attempts to restore the tower have failed, therefore WSQK the Squawk has announced it’ll officially cease broadcasting at 11PM this evening. Indeed I’m looking for a new job right now, don’t I?

And the first baby of the year has been born in Hawkins. And it’s twins! Casey and Holly Collins were born at eleven minutes past midnight. The proud parents say the twins are healthy, happy and already showing signs of sibling rivalry.

One reportedly stole the other’s blanket within minutes of being born. Though the parents admit they were not expecting ‘buying two of everything’ to begin quite so dramatically.

That’s the latest from right here at Hawkins on the last day of WSQK. More in an hour.

(302min)

Mindy:

Mindy Flare with you on WSQK, and yeah, we’re on backup power and borrowed time, but hey, Hawkins, we’ve got zero regrets. So we’re going out kicking all the way until 11PM. That WSQK tower kind of might be done, but listen, we’re not done with you! Let’s make this last day count on the Squawk.

Paradise City - Guns N’ Roses

Rasputin - Boney M.

Mindy:

That song right there - so, so, so good. It’s Mindy Flare on WSQK and yeah, I haven’t slept, like most people on New Year’s Day, am I right? But last night at midnight, the tower went a little bit upside down. Yeah, it broke, majorly. Now we’re on backup power and it’s only gonna last until 11PM. So, my promise to you today, Hawkins, is that every single song - I’m gonna play it loud, I’m gonna play it proud, and keep the positivity rolling! And, oh! This record is exactly what we need.

Everywhere - Fleetwood Mac

Love Will Tear Us Apart - Joy Division

Angel - Madonna

Mindy:

That track right there - that’s what I’d call a fun new development. I don’t think I’ve ever played that one here on WSQK before. It’s Mindy Flare and Hawkins, today is a day we will never forget. I want you to remember this one forever as this town - it’s special, it never quits. And no matter what it comes face to face with - never change, Hawkins.

I’m gonna get you back to the music real soon after this.

AD Break (Palace Arcade, Hawkins Community Pool)

I Love Rock ‘N Roll - Joan Jett & the Blackheart

Everybody Have Fun Tonight - Wang Chung

Is This Love - Whitesnake

Mindy:

It’s WSQK and yeah, today might be our last broadcasting across Hawkins, but today reminds me so much about the time I graduated from Hawkins High. All of us in class were watching the clock [chiming and ticking sound], knowing that the end of the day was coming. You know, we were all looking out for each other, celebrating together, even though we were all going our different ways [aww audience sound effect].

Oh my god, me and Vance Goodman - we should toss some microphone or something, right? You know, like the caps you throw into the air. Yeah, that’d be so cool! Hey, yeah, you there, [various shuffling noises] yeah, Mr. Whatsit? I forget your name, sorry. Can we do that, with these microphones? No? Oh. Alright. [in disappointed voice] Here’s another super-duper record for you, Hawkins, on WSQK.

Travelin’ Man - Ricky Nelson

Mad World - Tears For Fears

Mindy:

Happy New Year, Hawkins! And yes, it is a happy new year. What a night last night was, am I right? It’s Mindy Flare on WSQK, and a quick public service announcement: if you’re still hearing some static on the line from us here at WSQK, then we’d like to issue a formal apology. We’d hoped going on a backup power might have fixed things, if not, might be worth checking whether your receiver is in any way connected to the flux capacitor in your radio. Yeah, that could be what’s causing the dropouts and static still - the flux capacitor. I’d get that look at by a professional, if I were you [laughs].

AD Break (Scoops Ahoy, Rink-o-Rama)

New Sensation - INXS

Mindy:

Hawkins, it’s Mindy Flare on WSQK, and I never get to do this and I’m so excited - I’m shouting out some of your final day Dial-A-Dedications on the Squawk. Kicking off with a special shout-out from Luca. Hey, Luca!

You want me to shout-out the dynamic duo, Steve and Robin, who turn every single shift upside down. Luca says: “Even though they’re never seen to do any work, they always have everyone’s back.” In fact, we’ve had loads of shout-outs for those two guys, so it’s about time we get a track on for them, no? This is for everyone who wanted to show Steve and Robin some love on WSQK.

Wrapped Around Your Finger - The Police

Running Up That Hill - Kate Bush

Mindy:

Some records, they just don’t belong in this world. And that right there, that’s one of them. It’s WSQK and Vancy-pants is on the way next. Yeah, Vancy-pants. Just my little nickname for Vance Goodman. He says he hates it, but I know he secretly loves it. And since it’s our last day, I can totally get away with saying it on the air. Just wait until I tell ya what he sings.

Oh, quick! Vance’s coming. I’ll save that story for before 11PM on WSQK, I promise.

AD Break (Hawkins Hunting & Camping, Scoops Ahoy)