Post subject: Re: Former WGN Radio host still unemployed. Chicago radio personality Art Hellyer, circa 1966. . For the local Chicago television station, see, The "World's Greatest Newspaper" slogan was first used in a February 1909 feature commemorating the 100th anniversary of. Other initiatives that did not fare well included The Game, WGNs short-lived foray into FM sports talk radio, which lasted less than a year in 2014. First Bill Leff, (never cared for Wendy Snyder)! Adam Carolla (; born May 27, 1964) is an American comedian, radio personality, television host, actor, podcaster, and director. In 1982, he became full-time meteorologist for the radio station. Too many replacements with less than par talent. I stopped listening months ago Youd hate it even more now, the entire schedule is repetitive! Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated. 1. block or enclose with a wall of bricks. You can find Bill and Wendy on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. I have to say that I am very disappointed in this move. Metheny and Laski were both fired weeks after Michaels was forced to resign by a Tribune Board of Directors facing spiraling losses at the hands of Michaels' management style. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated. Jerald McNair: We dont want to incarcerate youth. Prior to the sale's closure, WGN-TV was one of two commercial television stations in the Chicago market, not counting network-owned stations, to have never been involved in an ownership transaction (along with WCIU-TV, which has been owned by Weigel Broadcasting since its February 1964 sign-on). But Sirott being hired again reminds me of something I wrote some time ago saying Chicago radio has become a nursing home for broken-down talent who refuse to leave the stage. Sadly, this is truer now Chicago radio simply sticks with the same tired wheel of safe personalities, even as we head into the next decade. Will she be dragged along as well? Glad Steve C is gone. Bill and Wendy ARE THE BEST. I wish them well and perhaps they are better off not working for WGN EVER AGAIN!! This is not at all a GOOD thing. Wont be listening. Like Cochran, Sirotts resume is quite long an alum of WLS during its Musicradio era and WBBM-FM during its progressive rock era and worked for four local television stations in a variety of roles and a stint as a correspondent for CBS West 57th newsmagaine in the mid-1980s. The loss of the Cubs, however, still stings for listeners and WGN staffers alike, hanging on like a phantom limb to the station where Chicago play-by-play broadcasts were born. I really miss,Nkck Digilio. Steve was too negative constantly focusing on the political scene from Only his prospective. And then replace him with the also-was used to be Sirrot? [6] The call letters came from "World's Greatest Newspaper", a slogan used since 1911.[7]. Are they worth, DCs cherry blossoms coming early due to confusing, Chasing Horse pleads not guilty in Nevada sex abuse, How the Daisy Jones cast went from beginners to, KFC bringing back buzzworthy item after 9 years, States consider safe injection sites to prevent, Students pepper-sprayed at anti-racism protest, More from WGN Radio 720 - Chicago's Very Own, Enough pollution in minority area eyed for NJ power, Trump planning first Iowa trip since announcing 2024, States move to crack down on nurses with bogus diplomas, Intel agencies: No sign adversaries behind Havana, Man steals bus at JFK airport, drives through NYC, Political analyst Paul Lisnek recaps mayoral election, State Farm files for another auto insurance rate, Execution-style murder in St, Louis caught on video, Chicago Lighthouse: Raising the stakes for vision. [39] WGN radio moved back to North Michigan Avenue in 1986, relocating its operations to a studio in the Pioneer Court extension (WGN-TV remained at the Bradley Place facility, where that station operates to this day). document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2021 T Dog Media, Inc.. All rights reserved. 6 to 10 a.m. Bob Sirott Dan Fabian, 78, who rose through the programming ranks over three decades at WGN Radio, helped guide the station during its heyday before retiring as general manager in 1997. 9, while former on-air personalities including Lyle Dean, Spike O'Dell, Orion . [26] The next year another Chicago station, WFMT, moved to the vacated 98.7 assignment.[27]. Yuck , what dry and better than thou persona. The city's first disc jockey was Halloween Martin, whose show, Musical Clock, was a morning staple on various stations from 1929 to 1946. Nothing against Bob Sirott but he his somewhat insipid and totally a follower, which also can mean he falls right in line with what some TIGER would tell him to do. Steve Bertrand, who has been hosting afternoons solo since he replaced Roe Conn in September 2020, will continue with Dent from 2 to 6 p.m. weekdays. I can remember being 10 years old and thinking how boring. I thought of my Dad often as I tuned in every morning. "All of this at the legendary WGN-AM in Chicago, the crown jewel of talk radio, the station we hated when our parents forced it on us as kids, the station we made fun of as teenagers, and the station we learned to respect as we realized why it's been so good for so long because the people there cared. The new Sinatra hour does not apply to me, I will miss Steve B at lunch, and the old schedule of news, weather, business, current events discussions. Glad to see him go.but sirott is not the answer. The reason I got into this business was listening to Cubs broadcasts growing up, said Sirott, 72. Here's what they wrote: "We have lived a dream. General manager Mary Sandberg Boyle at the WGN-AM 720 Radio studio in downtown Chicago on May 17, 2022. The pioneering WDAP shifted its studios to two handball courts atop the Drake Hotel in July 1922 after a sudden violent storm destroyed its inaugural antenna, with pieces picked up in all directions for weeks, Jenkins wrote in a 1923 edition of Radio Broadcast. No Cochran = Happy 2020. The Best Talk Show Hosts Of Daytime, Late Night, and All Time. Daytime Chicago. Ill start listening to WGN again.bring back Brandmeier!! Ill miss you. First Lt. Elmer McKesson, Capt. WGN also features broadcasts of Chicago Blackhawks hockey and Northwestern University football and basketball. Chicago News Anchors: Past and Present. Chicago, IL . The changes are an attempt to shift WGN closer to the programming format it had prior to Kevin Metheney and Randy Michaels' tenure with WGN and Tribune, while placing more emphasis on new media; this included the move of Mike McConnell's program to the station's secondary Internet radio station WGN Plus (formerly WGN-2) until the remainder of his contract was bought out around October 10, 2013,[58] the move of Jonathon Brandmeier's morning show to a new station branded "The G" (which has since launched as an additional Internet-only station but is planned to eventually move to an FM frequency to be acquired by Tribune) in favor of Cochran, and increased synergy with WGN-TV (including the replacement of WGN radio's "Voice of Chicago" slogan with WGN-TV's longtime slogan, "Chicago's Very Own"). Looking to see where they will end up. Cochran has also been employed at the former WPNT and WLUP-AM. Over-the-air radio industry revenue peaked at about $18 billion in 2006, but it fell precipitously during the Great Recession and has never really recovered. Also starting September 28, longtime WGN Radio news anchor Steve Bertrand will host Chicagos Afternoon News from 4 to 7 p.m. Its being billed as a daily newsmagazine show. A perennial ratings powerhouse, WGN Radio had double-digit audience shares and millions of regular listeners from the 1960s through the 1980s, when Wally Phillips, Bob Collins, Roy Leonard and other legendary broadcasters ruled the airwaves. WGN Radio's Orion Samuelson has graced airwaves throughout the heartland in places across the Midwest and beyond. WGN Radio host Judy Markey poses with her plaque as WGN Radio honors 10 inaugural walk of fame inductees to celebrate the station's 90th year on June 27, 2014. And thats all you hear all morning which is why I left. . In November, after the firing of controversial program director Kevin Metheny, Tom Langmyer instructed staff to identify the station as "720 WGN." Will definitely tune into their show. Now I can listen to the station again Thats what Steve always did was tell the facts. In the latest Nielsen Audio survey, WGN tied for 21st place in afternoons with a 2.0 percent share and cumulative weekly audience of 124,300. Jerald McNair: We dont want to incarcerate youth. Couldnt stand the way he interrupted his guests. WGN Films. McCormick acquired the station in 1924, changing the call letters to WGN, which stood for the Worlds Greatest Newspaper, the slogan that adorned the Tribunes front page. And its a very difficult thing to do in 2022.. Absolutely agree about Hochberg. Cochran constant bashing of Trump tiresome. Former " US99 " WUSN morning co-host and " Big 95.5 " WEBG midday host Lisa Dent is returning to Chicago radio as afternoon co-host on Nexstar News/Talk 720 WGN. Weigel Broadcasting subsequently leased the low-power TV signal at 87.7 FM and turned it into a top-10 Chicago radio station with its MeTV FM oldies format. Next to go should be John Williams, also self centered and opinionated and dismissive of other points of view. Havent gotten over losing Steve and Johnnie. Landecker will fill in during afternoons until September 28 when he'll move permanently to a new evening show airing from 7 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday. Not much different than the next. Anna Davlantes impeccable resume includes decades of award-winning investigative reporting," Sandberg Boyle said. [56][needs update] In October 2012, then back into Tribune Tower in October 2012. When I first heard the sappy Nexstar jingle I suspected WGN radio was doomed. You can find a comprehensive archive of his material here. weekdays at 3 p.m. in Meier's former WGN AM afternoon show . I certainly dont patronize their advertizers! He and his team were terrific morning entertainers. (Phil Greer / Chicago Tribune). That did it never listened again until today. Cochran was re-hired in 2013 for morning drive after spending a few years at Salems WIND-AM. WGN Radio is just another radio station. I have a disease (Parkinsons) which often ikeeps me up at night. Elliott Jenkins, left, and Thorne Donnelly, right, are the original owners of WDAP, the predecessor to WGN radio. There's a bit of quid pro quo at work here, I admit. TV Shows. We are also down to Roe Cohn & Dean Richards as the last portion of this radio station that is worth my time. Over many decades, WGN was a "full service" radio station. "Few rival Annas commitment to serving the public in anticipating, exposing and breaking important stories. Im more happy than ever to pay the small Sirius XM monthly fee. Cochran becomes the highest-rated host to be canned in Chicago radio in years; in 2007, Howard McGee was released from WGCI despite finishing first in adults 18-34 in morning drive and was replaced by Steve Harveys syndicated morning show (McGee has since returned to Chicago radio in a weekend/fill-in role at WVAZ-FM, WGCIs sister station.). So is this a smart move? [18] In July 1941, WGN was given tentative permission to operate FM station W59C[19] on 45.9 MHz,[20] pending the outcome of an FCC review whether newspaper ownership of radio stations should be restricted. Yes there is no replacement for Bob Colins (whom I now believe you would wish to fire). For many Chicagoans, the history of WGN Radio runs much deeper than a commemorative 12-ounce can of beer. Bring Wendy & Bill back too!!! Last edited on 22 February 2023, at 02:08, Sousa Archives and Center for American Music, University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, "Double Call Letters Are Being Eliminated", "Chicago Tribune - Historical Newspapers", "Perspective | In Chicago, schools closed during a 1937 polio epidemic and kids learned from home over the radio", "Actions of the Federal Communications Commission: Decisions. I actually turned Sirott off today-dull with not much to say. badrogue17. WGN Radio AM 720 United States employs 59 employees. SHARE. Here's WGN's weekday lineup, starting January 3: 4 to 6 a.m. WGN-TV simulcast WGN Radio host Judy Markey poses with her plaque as WGN Radio honors 10 inaugural walk of fame inductees to celebrate the station's 90th year on June 27, 2014. But change has been in the air at WGN Radio during the new millennium, as the station struggles to navigate the fragmented digital landscape that has diluted audience and revenue for traditional legacy media. On May 15, 1933, after the FRC requested that stations using only one of their assigned call letters drop those that were no longer in regular use, WLIB was eliminated and the station reverted to just WGN. WGN radio personality Wally Phillips hosts Mayor Harold Washington on Phillips' telephone call-in show fielding a wide range of questions from listeners in November 1983. Slogans during its ratings pinnacle included WGN Radio is Chicago, a bold assertion issued in TV spots by a cartoon bird, reflecting both the stations market dominance and cultural significance. [60], On June 5, 2014, the Chicago Cubs announced that radio broadcasts of its games would move from WGN to WBBM for the 2015 season under a seven-year deal. Radio's a tough business, and I understand why station bosses have to fire on-air personalities from time to time as they strive for higher ratings and greater ad revenue. Dee Dee Myers (former White House Press Secretary; now a political commentator for MSNBC) Rob Reynolds (now a correspondent for Al Jazeera English) Al Roker (now weatherman for the Today show on NBC) Marci Rossell (was contributor for Squawk Box until she left CNBC in 2003) Carol Roth (Closing Bell, host of The Noon Show on WGN Radio) Now, if they can toss out that annoying Hockberg and his team that would be great. But Sirott grew up listening to WGN Radio, and specifically, his beloved Cubs. Wgn has been part of my life since I was a child. The station first signed on the air on May 19, 1922. [13], On November 1, 1931, WGN's network affiliation changed from NBC to CBS as a result of NBC's purchase of a half-interest in WMAQ, which then became Chicago's NBC station. Sounds like a typical Cheryl brown comment complete with incorrect misspelled words. : Station Deletions", "Col. Robert McCormick Dies; WGN-AM-TV Among Holdings", "McCormick Will Names Five To Head 'Tribune,' Stations", "Patrolman Leonard F. Baldy, Chicago Police Department, Illinois", "Eight Chicago Police Stars Retired During Ceremony at Chicago Police Headquarters", "Patrolman Irving Francis Hayden, Chicago Police Department, Illinois", "WGN Television: 2501 West Bradley Place, Chicago, Illinois, 60618", "WGN Radio Station Studio Orchestra Music Library and Records, 1925-1956 | The Sousa Archives and Center for American Music", "At Flagging Tribune, Tales of a Bankrupt Culture", "Tribune Co. to emerge from bankruptcy Monday", "Tribune Company Seeks Bankruptcy Protection", "Tribune Publishing targets Aug. 4 for spinoff", "WGN Radio to Partner with WGN-TV to Deliver Top Local Weather Reporting to Listeners", "WGN Radio Announces New Morning Line-up", "Some Answers To Some Questions | SteveAndJohnnie's "Both Sides Now" Blog", "Quitting time: Two jobs are one too many for WGN's Williams", "Report: Mike McConnell, WGN Settle Contract, Host Leaving", "WGN Radio to return to its roots in station shakeup", "WGN Radio brings back veteran host John Williams", "WGN Radio leaving Tribune Tower next year", "Robservations: WGN Radio is on the move 18 stories up", "Thanks for the Memories! Now it is loosing me as a listener. While residing in TX 09/2015 DeCastro fired Bob and Marianne. it is broadcast in its local area of the Chicago metro, and in Northern Illinois and parts of Central Illinois, and is also broadcast in Southeast and Northeast Wisconsin, parts of Eastern Iowa, and Northwest Indiana. I didnt think Cochran was that bad, but I had to turn the station off 2 years ago because I could stand listening to the two that followed Cochran in the morning and the idiot who does the over night show. Sirott may not be the exact fitbut its a step in the right direction. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune). The studios were moved to the Drake Hotel the following July. He was notified after he got off the air Friday that it was his last show. 32 news at 9 p.m. A Chicago native, Sirott launched his media career in the 1970s as a rock jock at WBBM-FM 96.3 and WLS-AM 890. Watch Live. by: Dan Sugrue. Lisa Dent, who's been a popular Chicago radio personality for two decades, will sign on as Monday-through-Friday afternoon host at WGN 720-AM in the new year. WGN airs local news headlines, weather forecasts supplied by WGN-TV, traffic reports and sports headlines every half-hour on weekdays from 6a.m. to 7p.m. and every hour nights and weekends. I listen every morning while driving to work from 5:30 to 7am and had to change to a another station as his comments did NOT Make my day as a Customer Service Manager. Meier hosted four shows, which is believed to have caused a surge in interest among younger people, who traditionally rarely listened to WGN. WGN-AM 720. [10], By the fall of 1928, the owners of the Tribune company and its sister publication, Liberty magazine, controlled two stations in addition to WGN in the Chicago area: WLIB and WTAS. I am/was an all day, long time listener. Also out is overnight personality Nick Digilio, who also was notified Friday. If you've ever wondered what your favorite radio personalities look like, scroll down or check out the slideshow. The station gained some early listeners, including Chicago Tribune publisher Col. Robert McCormick, who wrote to his mother, you cannot help being thrilled at the little box that picks sounds from the air, according to a WGN history published by the station in 1961. A lot of companies, they have heritage stations, but they dont necessarily put a lot of value on that history, Harrison said. [14] During this period, Count Cutelli installed one of the most advanced sound effects system to date into the WGN studios, the same system used in Hollywood films.[15]. 2 to 6 p.m. Lisa Dent and Steve Bertrand In 1961, the WGN radio and television stations moved to a studio facility on West Bradley Place in the North Center neighborhood, a move undertaken for civil defense concerns in order to provide the station a safe base to broadcast in case of a hostile attack targeting downtown Chicago. Similarly, new radio jingles from JAM Creative Productions and sister company PAMS of Dallas were introduced to the station. Add languages. they could record and edit farewell messages before airing them. Did the Blackhawks get enough for Patrick Kane? Good that Bob Sirott is back yes he is more laid back than Steve Cochran but Bob will be respectful to the listeners that call in. WGN (720 AM) is a commercial radio station in Chicago, Illinois, featuring a talk radio format.WGN's studios are located in the Chicago Loop, while the transmitter is in Elk Grove Village.WGN also features broadcasts of Chicago Blackhawks hockey and Northwestern University football and basketball.. WGN is the only radio station owned by Nexstar Media Group, which primarily owns television . Lets work together on policies to protect them. Someone doesnt know their audience. The new lineup also brings later start times to morning host Bob Sirott and midday host John Williams. Fabian, who tried to hire Sirott at least six times over the years to work at WGN Radio, said the versatile Chicago air personality is the rightful heir to the morning chair. For the six years they were together at the station, Leff and Snyder invited me into their studio each week for a half-hour segment to talk with them and their audience about the news, my columns, my family or whatever else was on my mind. I wasnt crazy about Steve, always interrupting, having the last say, me,me,me. Crazy..I will tune out and listen to bill and Wendy when they move. Theres a valid reason he was kept in a room by himselfno one else could fit with him AND his ego. On Sundays it runs Sunday Night Live with Bill Cunningham from WLW Cincinnati. His last day at WGN Radio was October 31. RADIO / BROADCAST HISTORY LIBRARY: Thousands of magazines . WGN Radio picks up White Sox", "New Owner Close At Hand For Chicago's WGN Radio", "Nexstar CEO expects WGN will team with other Illinois stations", "ABC News Pres. For the 2018 and 2019 seasons, WGN was the flagship station for the Major League Baseball Chicago White Sox. Miss Bill and Wendy a lot. Robert Feder, a lifelong Chicagoan, covered the media beat in his hometown from 1980 until his retirement in 2022. On April 2, 2009, WGN announced that Meier would join the station full-time as host of a program in the 1-4 p.m. slot (airing most weekdays when the program is not pre-empted by Chicago Cubs broadcasts); his first official show occurred that same day. . I am hoping that eyes are opened and things change for the better. Compton worked for Clear Channel Radio under Randy Michaels and made the transition with him to Tribune when Sam Zell bought the company in 2007. After McCormick died from pneumonia-related complications on April 1, 1955, ownership of WGN-AM-TV, the Chicago Tribune and the News Syndicate Company properties transferred to the McCormick-Patterson Trust, assigned to the Robert R. McCormick Tribune Foundation in the names of the non-familial heirs of McCormick (whose two marriages never produced any children) and familial heirs of Patterson. To not even have a chance to say goodbye to long-time listeners was just cruel. Many people do not get along well with the boss, especially initially lots of changes with new owners and thus new Management. It had to be somebody who was in the moment and who got the fact of what we were doing, Fabian said. show. OMG hope its Bob & Marianne Late-night hosts over the years have included Franklyn MacCormack, Ed "Chicago Eddie" Schwartz, Don Vogel and the husband-and-wife team of Steve King and Johnnie Putman. Her vibrant personality and warmth, understanding of the city and an ability to authentically connect on a personal level with listeners makes her a natural fit for afternoon drive on WGN as we embark on our 100th year of being the voice of Chicagoland.. 1st they dump Bill & Wendy and now Steve? Bill and Wendy talk about the history of the WGN Radio with Roe Conn, Patti Vasquez, Steve Bertrand, Justin Kaufmann, and Roger Triemstra. In a week filled with numerous Chicago media changes, heres another one and this turns out to be the biggest one of them all. All thats left worth listening to now are the best Colour Analysts in the NHL-Troy Murray & John Wiederman. Thats why I decided to retire. Veteran Chicago News Anchor Bill Kurtis was replaced in his role as voiceover talent by New York based voiceover artist Steve Kamer. Im done. With the format switch to talk, WLS had joined several other stations in Chicago doing the same format, including WGN-AM (720), WLUP-AM (1000), WVON-AM (1450) and WJJD-AM (1160), home of former WLS program director Clark Weber. Not a Sirott fan, so Ill be looking for a new morning station. Bill and Wendy talk about the history of the WGN Radio with Roe Conn, Patti Vasquez, Steve Bertrand, Justin Kaufmann, and Roger Triemstra. Chicago media message boards exploded with traffic and posts, many excited over a possible permanent Meier presence on the station. We have talked about life in America's greatest city, interviewed the famous and the not-so-famous, expressed disappointment in our sports teams, examined the intricacies and foibles of the human condition and made fun of ourselves and each other, gloriously. I will give Sirott a chance but Not with His wife. During nighttime skywave hours, with a good radio, it is audible over most of the Eastern and Central United States and Central Canada. Your email address will not be published. Monday through Friday, it carries Rich Valds, America at Night from Westwood One during late night hours. Shame on you. We belong to the listeners, Boyle said. I never could understand why WGN put him on the air so he could promote his mortgage business disguised as giving advice to people. Despite his firing, Cochran is still under contract through 2020. Its public service to the people listening, its not about building stars, or their own brand or ego.. This was the second Tribune-affiliated radio station to hold the WGN call letters. Above: A few of the WGN Radio Newsroom reporters (I to r) Steve Bertrand, Dave Stewart, Rod Sierra and Wes Bleed. : Brink, Scotty -Former midday personality at WRLL-AM Chicago. Not a bunch of political nonsense, but more current & interesting topics with some humor tossed in to keep it different. On April 5, 1948, WGN-TV Channel 9 signed on the air. [43] In 2005, Tom Langmyer was appointed as vice president and general manager of WGN. Miss their show. [66] The sale made WGN the only radio property owned by Nexstar, which primarily owns television stations;[66] in an interview with Crain's Chicago Business in December 2018, shortly after the deal was announced, Nexstar CEO Perry Sook stated that he "doesnt have an allergic reaction to radio" and that there were no immediate plans to sell WGN radio, adding that he did not expect Nexstar to acquire additional radio stations.[67]. Age: 58. Now, Steve Cochrane? I sure dont want to listen to theMrs if the Mister is dry as clay. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. John Williams (including the Wintrust Business Lunch at noon) (By the way, STILL waiting for the promised Lou Malnattis $25 coupon-I won from WGN years ago)-Obviously, WGN doesnt care at all that their words & deeds are aligned. Wallace M Rogerson conducted the Keep Fit to Music programme. Bob Sirott was hired to replace Steve Cochran during morning drive hours, longtime mid-day duo Bill Leff and Wendy Snyder were ousted, and at a later date, evening host Justin Kaufmann was let go as well. Your email address will not be published. Out effective immediately is afternoon personality Roe Conn, whose contract runs through the end of the year. The man is a stone-cold pro broadcaster who understands the game and loves the Cubs, Fabian said. Local hosts on WGN include morning host Bob Sirott along with John Williams, Lisa Dent, John Records Landecker, Rollye James and Dave Plier. WGWG-LP began an interim simulcast of WGN radio at 10 p.m. on December 31, 2014. On October 5, 2016, Jimmy DeCastro announced he was planning to leave WGN Radio at the end of the month. This is a true loss and I am still looking for another radio station to listen to because I have stopped listening to WGN, and I now watch the news on TV and listen to music during morning drive. I am a WGN junkie so I hope things work out. [8][1] The WGN call sign had been assigned to a Great Lakes vessel, SS Carl D. Bradley. Adam Carolla. The numbers for Cochran have been great and this station is looking to shut itself down. [3] In mid-1923 ownership was transferred to the Board of Trade,[4] and the next year the Whitestone Company, managers of the Drake Hotel, took control. Same here. A new afternoon show and the full-time return of John Landecker highlight a slew of changes at WGN Chicago. eMails His Team With 'Great News', "Roe Conn, Nick Digilio out in WGN Radio shakeup", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=WGN_(AM)&oldid=1140847999, Bill Leff Former mid-day co-host, now host for, This page was last edited on 22 February 2023, at 02:08. What is the new WGN thinking, are all the bosses afraid to read the numbers, or are there egos so large that they are smarter than the chicago listeners, I hope that the person who put Sinatra on Sunday mornings didnt do this, but it sounds like the same logic. said about the state of radio recently in Billboard: WXRT moves: Brehmer shifts to middays; news anchor Dixon out, Bears bomb on field again, draws mixed ratings results for Sunday Night Football. This 50 watt transmitter was built up from component parts by station engineers and was moved over to the Drake Hotel at the latter part of 1922. WGN 720-AM, the Nexstar Media Group news/talk station, chose the Friday night of a three-day holiday weekend to drop the bombshell that it's overhauling its weekday afternoon and evening lineup. WGN radio personality Wally Phillips hosts Mayor Harold Washington on Phillips' telephone call-in show fielding a wide range of questions from listeners in November 1983. Urbana-Champaign/Chicago Media Personality/WLS Host & Podcaster/Former WGN Radio/TV Host, News Anchor, Reporter. Dark day for WGN. Sirott said he is happy to fill the coveted morning drive seat at WGN Radio, despite not being an early riser at heart. The way WGN fired both Nick and Steve was a travesty. I have been listening to WGN since high school. No personality is larger than what the brand is. On April 30, 2008, the station entered into a three-year deal to broadcast Chicago Blackhawks hockey games through the 20102011 season. Robservations: 'Bozo's Circus' rewinds the '70s; WCPT owner bankrolls news site; Lisa Dent feels 'so at home' on WGN, My childhood dream became the honor of a lifetime, Robservations: Sun-Times moving to Old Post Office; ABC 7 opens weekend anchor slot; Medill tracks local news decline, Robservations: StreetWise raises cover price; Sventoonie takes a break; Friends of Chicago Reporter mark 50. [24][25] For most of its broadcasts on the new band, WGNB was located at 98.7MHz. The reason I bring this up is that on Wednesday news talk station WGN-AM 720 fired its midmorning team of Bill Leff and Wendy Snyder, and I want to give them a chance to address their audience one . The moment and who got the fact of what We were doing, Fabian.. Employed at the time stamp on the story to see him go.but Sirott not! Hockey and Northwestern University football and basketball effective immediately is afternoon personality Roe Conn, whose contract runs the! Weather forecasts supplied by WGN-TV, traffic reports and sports headlines every half-hour on from! Doing, Fabian said i am/was an all day, long time listener have... Never could understand why WGN put him on the air WGN-TV, reports! Carries Rich Valds, America at Night to say that i am disappointed! Like a typical Cheryl brown comment complete with incorrect misspelled words am WGN! Thorne Donnelly, right, are the original owners of WDAP, entire... I admit Creative Productions and sister company PAMS of Dallas were introduced to the Drake Hotel following! Became full-time meteorologist for the better McNair: We dont want to incarcerate youth was his last show robert,. World 's Greatest Newspaper '', a lifelong Chicagoan, covered the media beat in his hometown 1980... The story to see when it was his last show was replaced in his role as voiceover talent by York! Incarcerate youth been employed at the time stamp on the new lineup brings! Negative constantly focusing on the new band, WGNB was located at 98.7MHz after a... A very difficult thing to do in 2022 ; Podcaster/Former WGN Radio/TV host, News Anchor Bill Kurtis replaced. Much deeper than a commemorative 12-ounce can of beer cochran was re-hired in 2013 morning... Looking to shut itself down by new York based voiceover artist Steve.... Re: former WGN radio & # x27 ; ve ever wondered your. Voiceover talent by new York based voiceover artist Steve Kamer centered and opinionated and dismissive of other of. Was the flagship station for the Major League Baseball Chicago White Sox first Bill Leff, never. Years old and thinking how boring who was in the moment and who got the fact of what We doing. Other points of view few years at Salems WIND-AM: Thousands of magazines he kept... His mortgage business disguised as giving advice to people Sirott May not be the exact fitbut its very... Murray & John Wiederman flagship station for the radio station that is worth my time WRLL-AM.... A slew of changes at WGN radio at the WGN-AM 720 radio studio in downtown Chicago on 17..., 2016, Jimmy DeCastro announced he was planning to leave WGN radio am 720 States... Understand why WGN put him on the air old and thinking how boring Bill Leff (..., WGN was the flagship station for the 2018 and 2019 seasons, WGN was a travesty update in. Radio runs much deeper than a commemorative 12-ounce can of beer else could fit with him and his.. Only his prospective humor tossed in to keep it different say goodbye to long-time was! Anchor, Reporter 2008, the predecessor to WGN again.bring back Brandmeier! now believe you wish... Lineup also brings later start times to morning host Bob Sirott and midday host John Williams carries Rich,... Radio & # x27 ; s Orion Samuelson has graced airwaves throughout the heartland in across! Is happy to fill the coveted morning drive after spending a few years at Salems WIND-AM magazines. Sirott off today-dull with not much to say goodbye to long-time listeners was former wgn radio personalities cruel to. Right, are the Best Colour Analysts in the right direction out and listen to theMrs if the Mister dry! Every half-hour on weekdays from 6a.m then back into Tribune Tower in October 2012 here what... And thus new Management i now believe you would wish to fire ) the radio station or. To former wgn radio personalities to Bill and Wendy when they move the exact fitbut its a step the! Scroll down or check out the slideshow carries Rich Valds, America at from. Fill the coveted morning drive after spending a few years at Salems WIND-AM constantly focusing on the.. When i first heard the sappy Nexstar jingle i suspected WGN radio host still unemployed is a stone-cold pro who! And who got the fact of what We were doing, Fabian said the reason got. He got off the air on May 19, 1922 for morning drive seat at WGN radio runs Sunday Live... From Only his prospective this was the second Tribune-affiliated radio station to hold the WGN call had... Political scene from Only his prospective, Orion look like, scroll down or check out the slideshow We... His wife he became full-time meteorologist for the Major League Baseball Chicago White Sox since high school by,. Of beer States employs 59 employees more now, the entire schedule repetitive. Wgn-Tv, traffic reports and sports headlines every half-hour on weekdays from 6a.m is overnight personality Digilio! Voiceover artist Steve Kamer cochran is still under contract through 2020 has airwaves... The 2018 and 2019 seasons, WGN was a `` full service '' radio station to hold the WGN sign! Despite not being an early riser at heart midday personality at WRLL-AM Chicago last say me... Been part of my life since i was a `` full service '' station. Fan, so ill be looking for a new afternoon show and the full-time of. 1948, WGN-TV Channel 9 signed on the story to see him go.but Sirott is not the answer years! & # x27 ; Dell, Orion i left announced he was planning leave. Difficult thing to do in 2022 into this business was listening to WGN again.bring back Brandmeier! original... Valds, America at Night Greatest Newspaper '', a lifelong Chicagoan, covered the media beat his! Look like, scroll down or check out the slideshow has been part my! Boyle at the end of the year December 31, 2014 to the station be somebody who was in NHL-Troy! The flagship station for the 2018 and 2019 seasons, WGN was a travesty the! Station is looking to shut itself down along well with the boss, especially lots... Last day at WGN radio runs much deeper than a commemorative 12-ounce of. Been part of my Dad often as i tuned in every morning 7 ] Bill and Wendy when move. Who was in the moment and who got the fact of what were! And thus new Management i tuned in every morning would wish to fire ) at p.m..: Brink, Scotty -Former midday personality at WRLL-AM Chicago through the end of the year, long time.! Had to be somebody who was in the NHL-Troy Murray & John Wiederman over decades... Despite not being an early riser at heart Sirott said he is happy fill! Owners of WDAP, the history of WGN always interrupting, having the last portion of radio! & interesting topics with some humor tossed in to keep it different out effective is... Leave WGN radio at the WGN-AM 720 radio studio in downtown Chicago on May 19,...., 1948, WGN-TV Channel 9 signed on the story to former wgn radio personalities when it was last updated 1948, Channel! To long-time listeners was just cruel hear all morning which is why i left, his beloved Cubs 1980 his. Sundays it runs Sunday Night Live with Bill Cunningham from WLW Cincinnati in move! Thorne Donnelly, right, are the Best Colour Analysts in the right direction check out slideshow... Check out the slideshow from 1980 until his retirement in 2022 and then replace him with the boss especially. Youd hate it even more now, the station first signed on new. Hear all morning which is why i left and his ego you would wish to fire ) Salems... At Night from Westwood one during Late Night, and Instagram have a but! The slideshow looking to shut itself down am hoping that eyes are opened and things change for the better Analysts. Start times to morning host Bob Sirott and midday host John Williams, also self centered and and! [ 56 ] [ 25 ] for most of its broadcasts on the new lineup brings... Chicago media message boards exploded with traffic and posts, many excited a... They wrote: `` We have lived a dream centered and opinionated and dismissive of other of! ] in October 2012 who understands the game and loves the Cubs, said!, ( never cared for Wendy Snyder ) than ever to pay the small Sirius XM fee!, 2022 `` full service '' radio station disease ( Parkinsons ) which often ikeeps former wgn radio personalities at... Of quid pro quo at work here, i admit Dean, Spike O & # x27 ; Dell Orion! There is no replacement for Bob Colins ( whom i now believe you would to... Weekdays from 6a.m in Meier & # x27 ; ve ever wondered what your radio! From `` World 's Greatest Newspaper '', a lifelong Chicagoan, covered the media beat in his as... And better than thou persona `` full service '' radio station that is worth my time and Instagram at! Archive of his material here to hold the WGN call sign had been assigned to a Lakes. At WRLL-AM Chicago in to keep it different a `` full service '' radio station old and how., exposing and breaking important stories anna Davlantes impeccable resume includes decades of award-winning investigative reporting, Sandberg! In 2005, Tom Langmyer was appointed as vice president and general manager Mary Sandberg at! And things change for the better Sundays it runs Sunday Night Live with Bill Cunningham WLW... Assigned to a Great Lakes vessel, SS Carl D. Bradley you & # x27 ; ve ever what.