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Top Radio News
Todd Violette Named OM for Connoisseur Palm Springs
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 3:51pm CT |
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Connoisseur Media appoints Todd Violette as Operations Manager for its Palm Springs cluster, succeeding Dax Davis, who was recently promoted to Director of Sales for Connoisseur Media in San Antonio. In his new role, Violette will oversee the 8-station cluster there and will directly program KDES (98.5 The Bull).
He becomes the fourth OM hired since Connoisseur acquired the Alpha Media stations, joining Ross MacLeod in Portland, J Love in San Jose, and Gordon Mays in suburban Chicago.
"I can't wait to get started," said Violette. "I want to thank Connoisseur Media and specifically Keith Dakin, Tricia Bastida, and Dax Davis for putting their trust and confidence in me. These are great brands with a remarkable staff - and who wouldn't want to live in paradise?"
"We are excited to welcome Todd to Palm Springs," added Tricia Bastida. "With his Southern California roots and exceptional track record, he will be a great addition to our programming team, which continues to dominate the market."
105.3 The Breeze Brings Holiday Cheer to Hampton Roads
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 8:05pm CT |
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iHeartMedia Norfolk will flip WNOH (105.3 The Breeze) to holiday music, bringing nonstop festive cheer to the Hampton Roads area. Beginning at midnight on November 1, the station will feature round-the-clock holiday favorites from artists including Mariah Carey, Paul McCartney, and Bing Crosby.
Listeners can tune in to hear familiar on-air personalities Murphy, Sam & Jodi, Amber Payton, Chris Davis, and Delilah as they continue to host throughout the holiday season.
In addition to seasonal music, 105.3 The Breeze will air special messages from members of the U.S. military serving abroad, sharing greetings with loved ones back home. The feature aims to honor the region's strong military community and help connect families during the holidays.
"We're thrilled to bring Hampton Roads the ultimate holiday soundtrack with 105.3 The Breeze," said Denene Moore, Market President for iHeartMedia Norfolk. "This station will make the season brighter for our listeners with nonstop festive favorites."
Radio HoF Inducts 2025 Class of Honorees in Chicago
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 10:35am CT |
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The Radio Hall of Fame inducted its 2025 class of honorees on Thursday, October 30 at the 2025 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner at the Swissotel Hotel Chicago. 2021 Radio Hall of Fame Inductee, Kim Komando was Master of Ceremonies for the event, with Radio Hall of Fame Co-Chairmen, Kraig Kitchin and Dennis Green, welcoming attendees with opening remarks.
The 10 Class of 2025 Inductees are:
- Julie Talbott
- Tom Carballo/Mojo in the Morning
- Scott Simon
- Shelley "The Playboy" Stewart
- Martha Quinn
- Alice Cooper
- DeDe McGuire
- Bob & Sheri
- Colin Cowherd
- Mike McVay
For more information about the Radio Hall of Fame and the 2025 Inductees, visit: radiohalloffame.com.
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CPB Reaffirms Independence Amid NPR Funding Dispute
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 5:25pm CT |
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The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) says it remains committed to protecting the independence of public media as it continues operating under "extraordinary circumstances" while winding down its activities.
In a message to the public media system, CPB President and CEO Patricia Harrison said the organization is finalizing new music rights agreements, closing grants, and applying remaining funds where needed most. She also addressed the ongoing lawsuit filed by NPR over the federal interconnection grant.
Harrison confirmed that no final ruling has been made, but a federal judge on October 30 denied NPR's request to freeze CPB's remaining interconnection funds. The court ordered CPB to reserve $36 million until the case is resolved - a step the organization says it is fully observing.
The order allows CPB to move forward with its previously announced award to Public Media Infrastructure (PMI), following a competitive process aimed at creating a "more effective and representative" distribution system for public radio. NPR has alleged that CPB's decision was influenced by political pressure from the White House, a claim the agency strongly rejects.
"CPB has not succumbed to pressure from the White House," Harrison said, noting that the organization had itself sued the President earlier this year over attempts to remove CPB board members and had refused to comply with a May 1 executive order seeking to cut funding to NPR and PBS.
"For decades, CPB has worked to maintain the firewall between the public media system and political interference," Harrison said. "We have never and will never abandon our mission to protect the independence of public media."
A separate federal trial is scheduled to begin December 1 in Washington, DC, where NPR will argue that CPB's funding decision amounted to unconstitutional, viewpoint-based retaliation.
Burtscher Named Nashville OM for ''Katie & Company''
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 10:29am CT |
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Audacy has elevated Andrea Burtscher to Nashville Operations Manager for its syndicated "Katie & Company" show, hosted by ACM Award winner and CMA Award finalist Katie Neal. In her new role, Burtscher will oversee local studio operations and production for the show, while continuing to support national initiatives across Audacy's Country portfolio.
Burtscher began her radio career at WKKO in Toledo, OH, before joining WQYK in Tampa and later Audacy's KMLE in Phoenix, where she advanced to Director of Marketing & Promotions and Music Director. After more than a decade in Phoenix, she went on to lead regional promotions for Audacy's San Francisco and Sacramento markets. Most recently, she has served as Director of Country Promotions & Experiences, guiding national marketing, promotions, and events.
"Katie & Company" reaches 2.7 million listeners each week and broadcasts from Audacy's new state-of-the-art studio at the Hard Rock Cafe on Broadway in Nashville.
Mix Maine Media Acquires Bangor Rocker WKIT-FM
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 3:39pm CT |
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Mix Maine Media, led by owner and president Jay Hanson, has announced the purchase of Bangor's Rock WKIT (100.3) from Rock Lobster Radio LLC. The company will begin operating WKIT on November 1 under a Local Marketing Agreement (LMA), with FCC approval expected in early 2026.
The sale marks the next chapter in the storied history of the station once owned by author Stephen King. King's Zone Corp. had announced plans in late 2024 to shut down its three Bangor-area stations -- WKIT, WZLO, and WZON -- prompting local business owners Greg Hawes and Jeff Solari to form Rock Lobster Radio and save WKIT from going silent.
Earlier this year, Mix Maine Media purchased the other two former Zone Corp. stations, WZLO 103.1 FM and WZON AM 620. WZLO is already back on the air, and WZON is slated to return by year's end.
"When an opportunity arises to enhance your position in a market you love, you move quickly," said Hanson. "WKIT is a heritage station with legendary talent and a loyal audience. Our shared passion for local radio will continue to serve Bangor's listeners and advertisers."
Rock Lobster Radio's Solari and Hawes expressed pride in having rescued WKIT and guided it to a successful transition. "We were able to save the station from going off the air and position it for years of success," said Solari. Hawes added, "The best way to support WKIT's future was to pass it to an experienced local broadcaster who believes in live and local radio, just as Stephen King did."
During their stewardship, Rock Lobster Radio relocated WKIT to a new downtown Bangor facility, upgraded its equipment, retained staff, and maintained its popular programming -- all while achieving some of the station's highest ratings in years.
Cotton Blocks Move to DST Permanent, Harming AM Radio
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 31, 2025 | 2:52pm CT |
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The Senate's latest attempt to make daylight saving time permanent has stalled after Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) objected to a motion for unanimous consent, blocking advancement of the bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act (S.29/H.R.139).
Cotton warned that keeping clocks on daylight saving time year-round would make winter mornings "dark and dismal" for millions of Americans, with the sun rising as late as 8:30 a.m. in his home state and even later in northern regions. "Permanent Daylight Savings Time would push winter sunrises to an absurdly late hour," Cotton said, adding that benefits would be limited to a few industries while creating widespread disruption elsewhere.
Supporters of the bill, led by Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL), say ending twice-a-year clock changes would simplify life for Americans and allow states to choose their preferred standard. Former President Donald Trump has also endorsed the idea, calling the current system "a big inconvenience."
Broadcasters have voiced opposition, warning that early morning darkness would harm revenue for AM radio stations that must reduce power or sign on later until sunrise. The National Association of Broadcasters, Salem Media Group, and the National Religious Broadcasters have all urged Congress to reject the proposal, citing potential economic and safety impacts.
The debate recalls the last time daylight saving time was made permanent in 1974, when President Richard Nixon signed the Emergency Daylight Saving Time Energy Conservation Act amid an energy crisis. The change proved deeply unpopular, with reports of children going to school in the dark and multiple safety incidents. Congress repealed the law after just eight months, restoring standard time on October 27, 1974.
Sen. Cotton cited that "abject failure" as a reason for his opposition, pledging to prevent a repeat. "I took full responsibility for not stopping it in 2022," he said. "We won't make that mistake again."
Cumulus Reports $180.3M Q3 Revenue, $20.4M Net Loss
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 10:08am CT |
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Cumulus Media reported third quarter 2025 results that reflected ongoing softness in the advertising market but continued gains in digital services and cost reduction initiatives. The company posted total net revenue of $180.3 million, down 11.5% from $203.6 million in Q3 2024. Net loss widened to $20.4 million, compared to a $10.3 million loss a year ago, while Adjusted EBITDA fell 30.8% to $16.7 million.
President and CEO Mary G. Berner said the company "continued to outperform" despite a challenging environment for legacy media. "We once again gained market share in total broadcast spot as well as in digital, where our market share gains reflected the strong growth of our digital marketing services business, which was up 34% in the quarter," she said.
Digital revenue totaled $39 million, down 2.6% year-over-year, but up 8.4% excluding the impact from discontinued partnerships with The Daily Wire and Dan Bongino. Digital marketing services accounted for roughly half of all digital revenue.
Cumulus executed actions resulting in $7 million in annualized fixed cost reductions during the quarter, bringing total annualized savings since 2019 to $182 million, or over 30%. The company ended the quarter with $90.4 million in cash and reported total debt of $722.2 million.
For the first nine months of 2025, Cumulus reported net revenue of $553.6 million, down 9% from the same period in 2024, with a net loss of $65.6 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $42.5 million.
Berner said the company remains "highly focused on re-engineering the business" and is accelerating "a wide array of AI initiatives to drive efficiencies and enhance growth." She added, "While we do not expect the current headwinds to abate in the near-term, we remain confident in our ability to position the Company for long-term success."
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Annalee Gould Named SVP of Sales for iHeartMedia SF
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 2:16pm CT |
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iHeartMedia San Francisco appoints Annalee Gould as Senior Vice President of Sales, effective November 3. In her new role, Gould will oversee all sales operations across the company's seven Bay Area stations, which span music, talk, and news formats.
As SVP of Sales, Gould will be responsible for leading sales strategy, developing the team, and managing key client relationships. She will also work closely with programming and marketing leaders to create integrated campaigns that connect advertisers with iHeartMedia's large and diverse audience.
"Annalee's ability to build trust, navigate change, and deliver creative, cross-platform results makes her the ideal leader for our San Francisco sales team," said Division President Kris Foley. "Her experience and relationships in the Bay Area will be instrumental as we continue to grow our presence and impact."
Gould brings more than 20 years of experience in AdTech, SaaS, social media, and emerging marketing technologies. She has led high-growth sales organizations in complex industries such as fintech, crypto, and AI, scaling businesses from startups to multimillion-dollar operations.
"Audio is one of the most powerful and evolving channels in media today, and nowhere embodies creativity and innovation quite like the Bay Area," said Gould. "I'm excited to join iHeartMedia and work with a team that understands how meaningful human-generated content continues to drive trusted marketing."
Urban One Raleigh GM Gary Weiss to Retire After 20 Years
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 3:56pm CT |
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Urban One's Audio Division has announced the retirement of longtime Raleigh General Manager Gary Weiss, marking the end of more than two decades of leadership with the company. Weiss, who joined Urban One in August 2000, has been instrumental in driving market growth, building strong community partnerships, and expanding listener engagement across the region.
"We are grateful for Gary's leadership and dedication over the past 20 years," said Eddie Harrell Jr., Co-President of Urban One's Audio Division. "His commitment to our audiences, advertisers, and communities has left a lasting impact."
Succeeding Weiss as General Manager will be Mitch Galvin, effective November 1. Galvin has been with Urban One since 2010, previously serving as General Manager of the company's Cincinnati markets and most recently as Vice President of National Sales.
"We are confident that Mitch will carry forward our strong foundation in the Raleigh market and build on the current momentum," Harrell added.
Weiss will remain with the company through the end of December to assist with the leadership transition.
Triton Digital Unveils AI AdBuilder for Small Business
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 5:00am CT |
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Triton Digital has introduced AdBuilder AI, a next-generation self-serve advertising platform aimed at helping its partners attract small and mid-sized business advertisers. The new tool opens a what the firm calls a previously underserved market segment by allowing companies to create, book, and pay for audio ad campaigns independently -- all through a partner-branded, white-labeled interface.
AdBuilder AI is designed to help Triton's partners boost revenue from high-volume, low-touch clients without adding staff or shifting resources away from major accounts. The system automates creative production, trafficking, and billing, enabling partners to manage new demand streams with minimal operational overhead.
"AdBuilder AI helps partners capture a new wave of emerging advertisers with minimal operational lift," said Amber Hunsaker, Director of Product Management at Triton Digital. "It streamlines the entire workflow, creative, trafficking, and billing. Our partners can grow revenue from a historically hard-to-serve tier without changing how they operate."
Using AI-generated voices, multilingual support, and sound design, the platform allows small businesses to generate broadcast-quality audio ads in seconds -- no production delays or approvals required. On the backend, AdBuilder AI integrates directly with the Triton Ad Platform (TAP), giving partners centralized visibility across campaigns, inventory, and creative while retaining control over pricing and approvals.
Each deployment of AdBuilder AI is fully customizable, with configurable branding, language, pricing, and targeting options to match the partner's brand and business rules. Antonio Ibarra Farina, CEO of Grupo ACIR, said the technology will help his company better serve small and medium-sized advertisers across Mexico. "This is one more step to strengthen Grupo ACIR's and iHeartRadio's leadership in digital radio," he said.
AdBuilder AI is now available to Triton Digital partners looking to enhance their audio monetization strategy and expand into the growing SMB advertising market. Learn more at tritondigital.com. TritonDigital.com
SiriusXM Lifts 2025 Outlook After Strong Q3 Performance
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 4:02pm CT |
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SiriusXM reported third-quarter 2025 revenue of $2.16 billion, down 1% from a year ago, but returned to profitability with net income of $297 million, compared to a $2.96 billion loss in the same quarter of 2024. The prior-year loss included a $3.36 billion noncash goodwill impairment tied to the Liberty Media transaction. Diluted earnings per share were $0.84, versus a loss of $8.74 last year.
Adjusted EBITDA was $676 million, down 2% year-over-year, reflecting lower subscriber revenue and higher royalties and acquisition costs, partly offset by tighter cost management. Free cash flow surged to $257 million from $93 million a year earlier, aided by lower taxes, reduced capital spending, and the absence of Liberty transaction costs.
"Our third-quarter results demonstrate continued financial strength, and we are pleased to increase our financial guidance by $25 million across revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow," said CFO Tom Barry. CEO Jennifer Witz highlighted progress in content, personalization, and digital advertising, adding that SiriusXM is "delivering sustainable profitability and long-term value for shareholders."
The company now projects 2025 revenue of $8.525 billion, adjusted EBITDA of $2.625 billion, and free cash flow of $1.225 billion.
The SiriusXM segment reported $1.6 billion in revenue, down 1% from a year ago, with gross profit of $958 million and a 59% gross margin. The company ended the quarter with about 33 million total subscribers, including a 40,000 decline in self-pay customers. Average revenue per user rose slightly to $15.19,
Pandora and Off-Platform revenue grew 1% to $548 million, including a 2% gain in advertising revenue to $416 million. The segment posted a gross profit of $170 million, with a 31% margin, down from 34% last year, as higher revenue-share costs offset podcast growth.
The company reduced total debt by $120 million and returned $111 million to shareholders through dividends and buybacks in the quarter.
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CPB Funds Upper Midwest Newsroom with $1.16M Grant
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 2:39pm CT |
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The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has awarded a $1,156,279 grant to establish the Upper Midwest Newsroom, a new regional journalism collaboration led by Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) alongside Prairie Public Broadcasting in North Dakota, South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB), and Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR).
The initiative aims to strengthen local and regional news coverage across the Upper Midwest by expanding editorial capacity and producing collaborative reporting. Coverage will focus on issues central to the region's identity and future -- economic and environmental challenges, agriculture, tribal affairs, and community resilience.
Under the grant, two editors will manage a four-reporter team, with journalists based at each partner station. MPR News will also add a dedicated beat reporter focused on tribal communities throughout the region.
"This collaboration strengthens trusted local journalism and builds regional capacity to cover the stories that matter most to people across the Upper Midwest," said Kathy Merritt, CPB's Chief Operating Officer. "By combining resources, experience, and a shared public service mission, these stations will deliver reporting that reflects the voices and values of the communities they serve."
The Upper Midwest Newsroom will also function as a new NPR regional hub, linking local public media journalists with national reporting and shared editorial support. The project aligns with CPB's longstanding mission to sustain public media and serve rural and underserved audiences.
"We deeply appreciate this investment in a vital public service," said Duchesne Drew, president of Minnesota Public Radio. "At a time when federal support for CPB has been rescinded, this partnership underscores how critical public media remains to the communities we serve."
The announcement comes as CPB winds down operations following Congress's rescission of all federal funding. Despite a 70% reduction in staff, the organization continues to manage remaining resources to support public media.
''Family Matters'' Stars Launch New iHeart Podcast
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 2:50pm CT |
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iHeartPodcasts has teamed with Audiation to launch "Welcome to the Family" with Telma and Kellie, a new series revisiting the 1990s sitcom "Family Matters." Hosted by castmates Telma Hopkins (Aunt Rachel) and Kellie Williams (Laura Winslow), the podcast premieres November 5, with new episodes every Wednesday.
In the series, Hopkins and Williams will rewatch and discuss every Family Matters episode in order, sharing behind-the-scenes memories, personal reflections, and never-before-heard stories from the set. The show will also feature guest appearances from fellow cast members and production team veterans, including producer Bob Boyett, Reggie VelJohnson (Carl Winslow), and Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo).
Hopkins, who first rose to fame as part of Tony Orlando and Dawn before moving into television comedy, and Williams, who became a household name as Laura Winslow, have remained close friends since their sitcom days. Together, they'll offer listeners an insider's perspective on how Family Matters became one of the longest-running and most-watched TV series featuring a Black cast.
Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kellie will be available on the iHeartRadio app and wherever podcasts are heard.
Armen Williams to Lead Westwood One 24/7 Sports Network
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 2:39pm CT |
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Westwood One appoints veteran programmer Armen Williams as Executive Director of Westwood One Sports 24/7 Programming. Williams will oversee the development and production of the network's new round-the-clock sports content, officially joining the team on November 3. Williams brings more than two decades of audio programming experience to the position, having held leadership roles at Audacy, Bonneville, and Townsquare.
In his new role, Williams will guide all aspects of Westwood One's Sports/Talk network, including technical operations, social media strategy, and brand management. He will also recruit and lead a team of hosts and producers responsible for creating original programming, interviews, benchmarks, and listener engagement.
"There's never been a more exciting time to be in audio-the industry is thriving, innovative, and constantly evolving," said Williams. "This is a unique opportunity to build on the incredible foundation created by our partners at Audacy and BetMGM and combine it with the reach, heritage, and credibility of Westwood One Sports."
Bruce Gilbert, Westwood One's SVP of Sports/Content & Audience, said Williams' appointment marks an important step forward for the network's expansion. "Armen is a passionate and experienced leader who is the perfect choice to help us launch our first-class, all-sports network at Westwood One," Gilbert said. "His vision is exactly what we need to define a new era in national sports talk audio."
Philadelphia Radio Icon Pierre Robert Dies at 68
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 2:33pm CT |
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Beasley Media Group announced the passing of legendary 93.3 WMMR/Philadelphia radio personality Pierre Robert, who was found deceased at his home on Wednesday, October 29. Authorities said no foul play is suspected.
Robert joined WMMR in 1981 and became one of Philadelphia's most beloved radio figures, known for his warm "Greetings Citizens" salutation, deep love of music, and genuine connection with listeners. For more than four decades, he helmed the station's midday show, blending classic rock with new and alternative sounds, and hosting signature segments such as Noontime Workforce Blocks, Pierre's Vinyl Cut, and his popular "On This Day" music history features.
Beyond the airwaves, Robert was a fixture in the city's music and charitable communities -- from hosting events like the AIDS Walk and supporting Manna's Pie in the Sky fundraiser to celebrating Philadelphia's vibrant live music scene. His contributions were honored with a star on the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame.
"We all have heavy hearts today," said Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley. "Pierre's unwavering love for music and his deep connection with listeners made him one of radio's most enduring and beloved voices. He will be greatly missed."
Beasley Media Group and WMMR extended condolences to Robert's family, friends, and fans, calling his passing "an incredible loss" for Philadelphia radio and the generations of listeners who grew up with his voice.
WGN's Steve Bertrand to Retire After 40 Years on Air
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 2:26pm CT |
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WGN Radio afternoon news anchor Steve Bertrand will retire from broadcasting on November 13, marking the end of a four-decade career with the iconic Chicago News/Talker. Bertrand, who celebrated his 40th anniversary at WGN earlier this year, has been a trusted voice for listeners and colleagues alike since joining the station in 1985.
"From joining WGN Radio in 1985 during the Wally Phillips era to anchoring news on the Lisa Dent Show today, throughout his 40 eventful years here Steve has faithfully maintained the highest standards of journalistic integrity, combined with his own unique gift for playful on-air banter," said WGN Vice President and General Manager Mary Sandberg Boyle.
A native of Manteno, IL, and graduate of Marquette University, Bertrand began his WGN career as an intern before being hired full-time. Since 1992, he has served as a news anchor, working alongside some of the station's most recognizable names, including Wally Phillips, Roy Leonard, Spike O'Dell, and the duo of Kathy O'Malley and Judy Markey-known to listeners as "The Girlfriends."
"I feel like I'm the luckiest guy in the history of radio," Bertrand said. "As a kid, I dreamed of one day living in Chicago. I never imagined I'd be part of her daily conversation. I will forever be grateful to the legends I worked with and, most especially, the listeners who made it all happen."
Colleague and WGN host John Williams added, "Our loss is Steve's gain. But boy, are we gonna miss him. He has been the stable, warm, and wise voice for Chicago radio for so many years. Chicago needs more Steve Bertrands."
Bertrand's career highlights include six seasons covering the Chicago Bears when WGN served as the team's flagship station, interviewing Coach Mike Ditka live from the locker room. He has reported on major news events such as the death of Mayor Harold Washington, the 1990 Plainfield tornado, the Oklahoma City bombing, and the September 11 attacks.
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