Chicago Radio: WKQX Resigns Walter Flakus, Lauren O'Neil

Walt Flakus

Cumulus Media announces that its Chicago Alternative Rock station WKQX 101.1 FM has signed on-air personalities Walt Flakus and Lauren O’Neil to respective multi-year contracts.

Flakus is Assistant Program Director/Music Director and On-Air Host, Evenings, for WKQX. He joined the station in January 2014. O’Neil is On-Air Host, Middays, for WKQX. She marks six years with the station on July 16th.

Marv Nyren, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Media-Chicago, said: “There’s no greater joy than being able to work with incredibly talented people and Walt and Lauren are two of the most creative, hard-working and talented people I’ve had the privilege to work with. They are an essential part of what truly separates us from our competition every day. Together, Walt, Lauren and the entire staff make 101WKQX one-of-a-kind.”

Lauren O'Neil

O’Neil said: “101WKQX has become my second family over the last six years and I am honored to continue entertaining Chicago from 10am to 3pm on 101.1! Cumulus is an amazing company to work for, and I am grateful to feel valued and appreciated every day. Lots of love and respect to Marv Nyren, Troy Hanson, Mike McVay, Mary Berner and our entire Chicago cluster for all of the support. This truly is a special place to be. Party at PIQNIQ!”

Flakus said: “I’m thrilled to be able to continue building an incredible Alt station in my hometown with such an amazing team!  I’ve found a great partner in Troy Hanson and look forward to continuing to shout between offices. Thanks to Troy, Marv Nyren, Dave Milner and Mike McVay for their continued belief in me.”