Stars Shine Brighter In Suburban Chicago
• Connoisseur Media’s commitment to live, local radio is alive and well in suburban Chicago, as evidenced by the welcome return of Joe Cicero and Tina Bree to morning drive on Hot AC WZSR (Star 105.5)/Crystal Lake on Monday, Nov. 3, less than a year after Cicero’s departure and Bree’s move to afternoons.
Cicero shared his excitement about returning to the show that started it all, commenting, “After moving here almost 16 years ago to start mornings on Star 105.5, it was more than a radio show. This was a way to connect with so many people, starting with Tina and others who’ve become some of my best friends. I’m looking forward to fun-filled mornings and making new friends!”
Bree added, “I’m beyond excited to be back in the mornings and to hear ‘Wake Up with Joe and Tina’ again! There’s a new vibe in the studio as we grow our connection with the community. Plus, we have a whole lot of laughter waiting to be shared! Joe and I are ready to bring a kind of morning show that feels like family again.”
Meanwhile, over at nearly identical Hot AC twin sister WSSR (Star 96.7)/Joliet, Windy City morning icon Eddie Volkman makes his triumphant return from pm drive to the wake-up spot.
“I’m thrilled to be back in the morning drive where I spent so many years in my career! It just feels natural,” said Volkman. “With the acquisition of our company by Connoisseur Media, you can feel the energy and enthusiasm everywhere in the station. We’re going to do radio the best way I know how… live, interactive, and local. I’m honored that I get to jumpstart the station every day!”
And there’s more local movement: Hannah B. returns to anchor afternoon drive on Star 105.5 and Star 96.7, while Jillian Dugan will handle middays on both stations while also contributing to Eddie V. in the morning. The syndicated XYZ with Erik Zachary moves from mornings back to its original evening slot. Pictured, (l-r): Volkman, Hannah B., and Jillian
Kathleen Cahill, Market Manager for Connoisseur Media Chicago, remarked, “It’s a great day for our Star stations and for the market as a whole. Joe and Tina have been an important part of our listeners’ daily lives for a long time, connecting with the community on so many levels. Everyone is looking forward to waking up with the Joe and Tina Morning Show. This new lineup reflects everything Connoisseur stands for — live, local, and full of heart.”
OM Gordon Mays added, “Eddie V. is one of the most recognized and respected names in Chicagoland radio. Having him back where he belongs in mornings just feels right. His warmth, quick wit, and long-standing place in our audience’s morning routine makes this such an obvious fit.”
