Reliving local radio’s glory days on May 29

It may be difficult to imagine now, but there was a time, not long ago, when there were four radio stations in and around Springfield.

Not only did they physically operate here, they flourished for many years.

Unfortunately, those days are gone now, due in large part to the changing world of radio. But on Thursday evening, May 29, those bygone days will be revisited by those who lived them, during an event entitled “On The Air In Springfield: Looking Back On Local Radio,” presented by the Clark County Historical Society.

The event starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Heritage Center of Clark County, 117 S. Fountain Ave., Springfield.

The evening will feature a panel that includes radio personalities like Dick Hatfield, Jack Hamilton, Dennis Carter and Ann Armstrong.

I will have the privilege of serving as emcee and we will talk about those local stations — WBLY, WIZE, WEEC and WULM — as well as others that operated here in the community as far back as the 1920s.

A number of other people who worked at, and even started, those local stations have been invited to share their stories and memories, and to pay tribute to those who came before us. You are also invited to attend and bring items related to the stations.

There will also be memorabilia from local radio on display, thanks to the efforts of the staff of the Heritage Center.

It promises to be a fun and entertaining evening, and we hope it will also be an informative and memorable one as well.

Admission is free, but a $5 donation to the Heritage Center is requested. Historical Society members and volunteers free.

We hope to see you there.

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