Who are the people who host music shows on WERU?  They do all sorts of things and come from all sorts of backgrounds.  One of them is Melisenda Ellis.

What do you do at WERU Community Radio?

Since 2010 I have hosted Wednesday’s On the Wing, a show of eclectic music of all kinds. Before that I co-hosted and hosted a number of overnight shows (Northern Journeys, Insomniac’s Mix, and Beyond the Veil) starting in February 2003.

How did you first get involved at WERU and what was your motivation?

I used to work with John Babcock, who hosted Tuesday’s On the Wing before his death. John had muscular distrophy and one day he brought me to the station as his studio assistant. I was astonished by his musical range and at how much music there was and still is.

My father was also interested and brought my sister and I with him to help co-host Northern Journeys. We slowly expanded to having shows from 10pm to 5 am for a while.

Why do you think WERU is important and valuable to the community?

You don’t hear the same sort of programming as most other stations, and I think in these trying times, hearing a variety of music and points of view is very good for people.

What is your career outside of WERU?

I work with developmentally disabled adults, in a group home setting, though my company’s group homes are more like regular houses.

What are you passionate about in your life and/or community?

I love music, and dancing, and cooking. I love to try new things.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our listeners and readers?

WERU changed my life, and I know I’m not alone. This will be my 15th year on air, and I still love it! Of course I also hope that listeners love it too!