By Guy Page

Today is my last day hosting Hot Off the Press 11 AM on WDEV AM 550. On Monday, I debut “Chronicle Conversations” on WVMT AM 620 at noon Monday-Friday.

As much as I’m looking forward to a new opportunity, meeting a new audience, and having more time to publish VDC every day, I will really miss everyone at WDEV – the audience, the staff, owner and general manager Myer Mermel.

Last October Myers called to ask if I’d fill in for the time slot vacated by the departure of the great Bill Sayre’s Common Sense Radio program. One thing led to another and soon I had my own show. You’re listening to my final episode now. 

However, Hot Off the Press will continue full force with a dedicated team of hosts. On this coming Monday you’’ll hear Renee McGuinness of the Vermont Family Alliance interviewed anti-Marxist activist Ed Wheeler. The following Monday Mary Hahn Beerworth of Vermont Right to Life will settle in behind the microphone and interview informed, involved guests. Renee and Mary will trade off Mondays.

Tuesday, Alison Despathy and former House candidate Elizabeth Brown of Waterbury will co-host. Wednesday, Alison will host the show alone, drawing guests from her slew of contacts as a journalist and state house advocate on behalf of rural Vermonters, local control, and health care freedom. 

Thursday, Amy Hornblas of Vermont Stands Up will interview guests with an eye towards giving a voice to Vermonters whose views are sometimes suppressed in today’s political and media culture. Friday will be Chef’s Choice for WDEV – either a rebroadcast, or something new and unique.

All of the new scheduled hosts will welcome your calls at 8 oh 2, 244, seventeen 77.”

I will miss Lee Kittell and Bob Welch in the booth, and program manager Don Harrison. They’ve both been so friendly, professional and helpful to the radio newbie. I will miss Myers, who has been such an old-school gentleman and encouraging listener. Most of all, I will miss the regular callers – Katherine from Moretown, Bob from Shelburne, Ruth from Sheldon, Robert, Sean, Chris, and all the other regular and occasional callers and personalities who make the show a true Town Meeting of the Air. 

As usual, we have no scheduled guests on Friday. As usual, I welcome your calls! 802-244-1777. Until then… let your light so shine!