Mere hours after we learned of WRVO's new HD channel, the station informs us they're looking for a new host/producer for the local segments of "Morning Edition." That's because longtime host John Hurlbutt plans to retire at the end of the year.
Hurlbutt has been part of the WRVO staff since the station signed on in 1969, and became the local host of Morning Edition in 1980. His official bio mentions that might be a "longevity record for Central New York radio broadcasting," a statement we can't argue -- off the top of our heads, we can't think of anyone else who's worked at the same station for nearly 40 years.
Hurlbutt partially retired as program director in 2006, but has continued to host Morning Edition. Now, he's ready to retire completely, and we're told he plans to leave at the end of this year.
WRVO Program Director Fred Vigeant sends us a brief description of the position:
WRVO Radio/Research Foundation of SUNY have an excellent opportunity for a full-time Morning Edition Host/Producer. The host works with the Morning Edition News Producer to develop and present timely and creative news programming. The host has a keen understanding of national and regional news and can work with the Morning Edition News Producer to conceptualize and execute an informative morning program news program that seamlessly transitions from local to national content, and meets WRVO's mission statement and public radio's core values. Shift: 0445-1315 Weekdays. May also be required to work holidays or weekends.
More details on the job opening and qualifications at http://www.wrvo.fm/jobs.html
To help save Fred some grief, we'll stress -- you must click that link to see the "official" job posting.