Posted by chicagomedia.org on January 23, 2009 at 17:50:10:
In Reply to: WLS-AM Offers Blagojevich A Weekend Radio Show posted by chicagomedia.org on January 22, 2009 at 12:05:15:
WGN Radio Offers Show to Blagojevich
WGN Radio Offers Afternoon Show to Rod and Patti Blagojevich
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2009 - WGN Radio (720 AM) Program Director Kevin Metheny today announced that the station is offering the currently vacant weekday 1-4pm show to Rod and Patti Blagojevich.
In a statement made live on WGN Radio immediately following the Blagojevich press conference today, Metheny stated:
"WGN Radio seeks to fill the on-air opening that was recently vacated by John Williams from 1-4pm weekdays. After weeks of auditions and substitutions by fascinating radio performers, we're now prepared to fill the position.
On numerous occasions we've been impressed by the mastery of public policy, newshound-like familiarity with the events of the day, and remarkable facility with banter displayed by Governor Rod Blagojevich. WGN Radio offers the 1-4pm weekday afternoon opening to the team of The Governor and the First Lady, Rod & Patti Blagojevich. Some may feel this is a cynical gesture in pursuit of publicity, but nothing could be further from the truth. The currency of radio's realm is ratings, and the Governor is ratings gold. Mrs. Blagojevich is currently unemployed. In all probability the Governor will soon be unemployed as well, and frankly, he could use a good medical plan to defray the expenses of psychiatric care.
The jobs are both full-time, with benefits. While it would be unseemly to disclose the monetary details in this public forum, we're prepared to compensate each Blagojevich at a healthy six-figure annual rate. The positions come with benefits pursuant to Tribune Company policy for similarly situated employees, plus a fully logoed WGN Radio jogging suit.
So, there you have it. As much as we love Nick Digilio, Dean Richards and the other candidates, we're prepared to stop the search for a new WGN early afternoon program now and hire the Blagojevichs. Full-time. Serious money. With benefits. Including medical. Our United Health Care Insurance includes a generous provision for mental health coverage and an employee assistance program. I look forward to hearing from the Governor and First Lady, or a representative, to discuss the details. WGN Radio is an equal opportunity employer. We're serious. Thank you for listening."
(Press Release)