VPR Celebrates Joel Najman's 50 years in Broadcasting at THT Tonight

He's been on the air with Vermont Public Radio for 30 years, and his show My Place has thousands of loyal fans. But he started his Vermont broadcasting career right here in Middlebury.

Joel Najman attended Middlebury College and in 1965 he worked at station WFAD. His 50-year broadcasting career is being celebrated back in the town where he got his start, as Vermont Public Radio presents VPR A-Go-Go at Town Hall Theater tonight, September 28.

"We're absolutely delighted that VPR decided to honor Joel here in Middlebury," says THT executive director Douglas Anderson. "Joel loves our theater and he even remembers when this building was the Belmont Diner in the early 60's."

In a sense Joel has never left the 1960's and the preceding decade, as he mines that period every week on his radio show for classic rock & roll hits and forgotten gems. His encyclopedic knowledge of the music and the personal stories behind the music brings this swinging period to life.

At Town Hall Theater, Joel will be spinning his favorite tunes, sharing stories and getting everyone on their feet. There will be a Twister Tournament, prizes for the best hairdo, go-go dancers and refreshments. Mod costumes are highly encouraged.

To be admitted to the event people only have to present a non-perishable food item that will be donated to HOPE.

"It's a one-of-a-kind evening and it's virtually free," says Anderson. "It will be a groovy homecoming."

VPR A-Go-Go, in honor of Joel Najman's 50 years in broadcasting, will be presented at Middlebury's Town Hall Theater tonight, September 28, beginning at 7:00 pm. The price of admission is a non-perishable food item to be donated to HOPE.

PHOTO CAPTION: Joel Najman, of VPR's popular My Place, will celebrate 50 years in broadcasting at Middlebury's Town Hall Theater tonight, September 28 at 7:00 pm.

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