Chicago-based media reporter Robert Feder cited sources as saying that nine months after Tribune Media "launched Chicago’s first FM sports/talk station, they’re throwing in the towel on the ambitious but unprofitable venture," and will "cease programming" on WGWG-FM at the end of the year. Sources added that morning show host Jonathon Brandmeier and afternoon host Garry Meier are "also out, effective immediately." Midday hosts David Kaplan and David Haugh, whose show is simulcast on CSN Chicago, are "expected to continue on the cable sports network after the radio operation ceases." Sources said that all of the moves are being made because the company has been "unable to generate sufficient advertising revenue to sustain the programming and talent costs" (ROBERTFEDER.com, 11/20).
KURT-AIN CALL: In Illinois, Matt Daniels reported Illini Sports Network radio analyst Kurt Kittner is "stepping aside after this season." Kittner, who has held the role for the last eight seasons, has a "full-time job" as Senior VP of Chicago-based commercial real estate company Jones Lang LaSalle. Getting a "chance to spend more time" with his family on the weekends during the fall and "cutting down on his travel were two main reasons 2014 marks the final season" for Kittner in the radio booth. The Univ. of Illinois "plans to honor Kittner at some point during Saturday’s game against Penn State" (NEWS-GAZETTE.com, 11/20).
CAMERON INDOOR: NBCSports.com on Thursday announced U.S. men’s national soccer team and EPL club Stoke City D Geoff Cameron is joining the site as a special correspondent. Cameron will take part in a weekly feature on the EPL and will take over one of NBC Sports Group’s social media accounts twice a month to answer fans’ questions (NBC Sports).
