Wednesday, April 10, 2013

NBC-29's Ken Slack to join VDOT, other news

There are all sorts of changes going on with those who cover the news about those who make the news in the SWAC area....

Sadly, Ken Slack, who has spent the last 18 years with NBC-29 as a reporter and Valley bureau chief, is leaving in mid-April to join VDOT in the Staunton area as a communications specialist. This home town boy, born and raised in Stuarts Draft and a graduate of Virginia Tech, has been fun to work with over the years. His dedication to the profession and accurate reporting will be missed but here's wishing him the best as he pursues new avenues that will allow more time with his family. Update 4/20/13: NBC-29 newscast video saying goodbye to Ken.

Matt Talhelm will step in to join Tara in Valley news coverage. Matt is a familiar face in the Valley. He has been with NBC-29 since 2005 and anchors on the weekends in addition to reporting. A few years back he covered the Stonewall Jackson National Guard unit out of Staunton, and I remember one time (when they were leaving or returning; can't remember which) when Matt was getting on-air ready for his broadcast from the site. He was dedicated in covering those men and women who served. We look forward to seeing more of Matt in the Valley.

Jonathan Hunley has left the Waynesboro News-Virginian as editor and general manager, and has his eye on larger news markets. I've enjoyed Jonathan's leadership at the NV and he has been a friend to SWAC Girl. Here is wishing him all the best as he moves on.

Former News-Virginian general manager and editor Lee Wolverton, who returned to the area when he joined up at the Charlottesville Daily Progress as managing editor in September 2012, is helping out in the interim. Lee and his wife Dana moved to Texas a few years ago but it was great to have them move back to the area last fall. Welcome back, Lee ... we look forward to once again working with you.

News through the grapevine is that a longtime reporter with the Staunton News Leader has decided to move on. This comes on the heels of some changes at the NL that include selling their present building as they downsize into a more streamlined news-gathering organization. 

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