Mid-West Pros On The Loose
• It’s become a tough 4th quarter reality for the radio business, as pre-holiday budget cuts come calling uncomfortably close to Christmas. Such is the case at Mid-West Family in Rockford, IL, as RAMP has confirmed the budget-related departure of Mark Zander, Operations Manager of Mainstream Rock WXRX (104-9 The X) and WNTA (Sportsfan Radio 1330) as his position is eliminated. Also adversely affected: Lori Williams, a three-year company veteran who did mornings on WXRX, nights on AC WGFB (b103) and also served as Interactive/Digital Production Manager for the six-station Rockford cluster.
Most of Zander’s career has been spent in the Chicago region — prior to joining Mid-West Family in August 2016 he was doing part-time for Hubbard Classic Rock WDRV (97.1 The Drive)/Chicago and his voice has also been heard elsewhere in the Windy City at WLUP, WZZN and WCKG. Zander previously programmed Classic Hits WERV (95.9 The River)/Aurora, IL and Classic Rock WRXQ (Q Rock 100.7)/Joliet, IL. From 2006-2008 Zander worked in Southern California’s Antelope Valley, running KLKX (now KQAV) & KKZQ (100.1 The Edge)/Palmdale, CA. He also hosted and produced the nationally syndicated Rockin’ ’70s and Rockin’ ’80s from 2004 to 2014.
Ms. Williams (right) previously spent six years across the street at Townsquare Classic Rock WKGL (96.7 The Eagle), rising from weekends to middays.
In a statement, Zander said, “I spent 3.5 years assembling my team and rebuilding the image and reputation of The X in the marketplace. I am extremely proud of what we were able to do with WXRX heading into its 30th year of rockin’ Rockford. Thanks to Tom Walker of Mid-West Family for the opportunity to revive this heritage rock station — it was hard work, but tremendous fun!”
Zander is now seeking his next broadcasting opportunity and can be contacted at 4cmediastudio@gmail.com. Lori Williams can be reached at 708-990-0081 or LoriW112214@gmail.com.
