Michael Harrison, publisher of TALKERS, the leading trade publication in the American talk media (radio, TV and internet) industry, served as keynote speaker at the annual breakfast of the West of the River Chamber of Commerce held Tuesday morning (6/12) at Chez Josef in Agawam. Harrison, a 32-year resident of Longmeadow, is also president of Pioneer Valley Radio. Accompanied by Pioneer Valley Radio’s show hosts Bernadette Duncan and the legendary Brad Shepard, Harrison delivered a fascinating 35 minute address on the impact today’s rapid changes in media and technology are having on small business as well as all of society. He explained how the term “fake news” has evolved during the past two years and emphasized the importance of local business, media and politics as composing the foundation of a healthy society. He further discussed freedom of speech and emphasized the fundamental role the First Amendment plays in maintaining American democratic principles. Other speakers included Chamber executive director Robin Wozniak, Chamber co-chairs Frank Palange and Ryan McLane as well as Agawam Mayor Bill Sapelli and West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt. The first-class event was attended by approximately 75 local business people who collectively expressed a feeling of energetic optimism about the current direction and future of Agawam, West Springfield and all of Western Massachusetts.
