CBS Radio: Chicago, S.F. Personalities Reported OUT

Tom Marker

CBS Radio is closing out the year by parting company with two veteran Chicago radio personalities — Tom Marker of WXRT 93.1 FM and Trish Biondo of WUSN 99.5 FM.

Chicago Media blogger Robert Feder was first to report that Marker’s position as WXRT’s evening personality and “Blues Breakers” host is being eliminated after 33 years at the adult album alternative station, according to insiders. Details of his separation agreement are being negotiated. However, Marker is still listed on the station's website.

Biondo’s contract as US 99.5’s midday personality was not renewed after 27 years at the country music station. Sources said Biondo was unable to reach agreement on non-economic issues.

Jeff Kapugi, program director of US 99.5, said Laura Taylor and other part-timers will fill in until a permanent midday host is named.

Trish Biondo

CRM notes that last year, US99.5 was looking at replacing Biondo. This was primarily because of management's wishes that she do her show live and local from the US99.5 studios, thus connecting better with fans and advertisers, as opposed to only being in the studios two or three days per week, which has been her arrangement for the last few years.

CBS Radio placed ads for a new Country DJ for the station and was very close to naming a new host and a new rearranged lineup. However, in mid-December 2012, the station decided to instead pick up Biondo's contract option for one more year and reassess the situation at the end of this year.

Once again, this year's contract negotiations became hung up on Biondo's unwillingness to work from the US99.5 studios in downtown Chicago, so that she could spend more time with her family.

In San Francisco, All Access is reporting CBS Radio Alternative KITS Live 105 Steve Masters has exited as morning host. There has been no word on who will replace him as of yet.

Masters reportedly is still involved with KITS via endorsements, appearances and specialty shifts.