From Subaru wagon-driving, tofu-eating social workers to booze-swilling, SUV-revving siding contractors, the Pioneer Valley boasts all types of radio listeners. One thing they have in common: an interest in continuous, eclectic programming that isn't arbitrarily forced into a format, be it "smooth jazz," "back country hits" or "everything that rocks." Valley station The River (93.9 FM in Noho, 101.5 FM in Brattleboro) has made the effort to respect that its audience might have tastes and moods that span an entire spectrum of musical genres, and so has become a favorite spot on the dials of folks from all walks of life.
Still boasting roots in Greenfield's old WRSI, much about The River is "Homegrown," and in fact, longtime WRSI DJ Johnny Memphis was instrumental in the station's transition from a small local transmitter to part of something a bit bigger. Now the station, owned by Saga Communications, boasts a fair collection of on-air personalities including Monte Belmonte, Phil Straub, and the inimitable Kelsey Flynn, who was kind enough to answer a few questions for the Advocate.
Valley Advocate: How long have you been a DJ at The River?
Kelsey Flynn: I've been a DJ at The River for six years. Whoa. I hadn't done the math on that in a while.
What's your favorite part of the job?
The first thing I love about The River is all of the people I work here with. I know that sounds rather Hallmark Hall of Fame-ish, but I honestly love everyone here at 15 Hampton Avenue and consider them family. Except Scooter [Scott Howard, the affable jack of all trades for WRSI and its sister station, WHMP AM].
Does your programming director give you any freedom to manipulate your playlists?
Meet me outside behind the dumpster and I'll tell you. He's listening right now.
Do you make an effort to support local musicians, and if so, how?
We're the only radio station (commercial) that plays local musicians. In any given day, my playlist will include at least two spins of bands or singer/songwriters who live here. So yes. And that's how.
What do you think is the most important thing the station contributes to the Pioneer Valley?
The most important thing we contribute to the Valley besides being the best music available on terrestrial radio is our commitment to the Valley—talking about it, celebrating it, cleaning it up, building it up. We all live here, make our homes here and I think that kind of connection to the community is invaluable."
