Posted by chicagomedia.org on November 25, 2008 at 16:29:00:
In Reply to: John Williams to replace Spike O'Dell for WGN mornings posted by chicagomedia.org on November 24, 2008 at 19:37:13:
WGN Announces John Williams As New Host of Morning Drive
Monday, November 24, 2008 - WGN Radio 720 AM announced today that John Williams will be the new morning show host beginning Monday, December 15. Williams will replace Spike O'Dell who announced his retirement earlier this year.
Tom Langmyer, WGN Radio Vice President and General Manager stated, "It's an exciting time for WGN Radio and I'm proud to announce John Williams as the new voice in morning drive. In John's 12 years with the station, he has shown passion, dedication, community involvement, creativity and commitment to building WGN's brand across multiple platforms. He is a well-known, popular host on WGN, known throughout Chicagoland and beyond. A great broadcaster deserving of this promotion."
John Williams began his broadcasting career at WSPY in Plano, Illinois. He hosted middays at WCCO Radio in Minneapolis for four years and spent ten years at WMBD in Peoria. Williams began his career at WGN Radio in 1997 as the midday host and moved to the afternoon shift in February 2000.
John was a Personality of the Year finalist at the 2006 Illinois Broadcasters Association Silver Dome Awards. Also in 2006, Williams was a Marconi finalist, won Personality of the Year at the Silver Domes, and Best Afternoon Show on a News, Talk, Personality or Sports Station and Best Talent at the (A.I.R.) Awards. In the community, John serves on the Salvation Army and YMCA advisory boards
Williams acknowledged the challenge by saying, "I'm thrilled to be the new host of morning drive, but let's face it, there's no replacing Spike O'Dell. One thing that won't change is reliable news and fun, friendly, smart conversation that Chicago can count on."
WGN has plans to announce Williams' replacement in the coming weeks.
(WGNradio.com)