Townsquare Makes Some Moves

• UPDATED: RAMP has confirmed that Townsquare Media has parted ways with four employees in its Monmouth-Ocean, NJ cluster, and another two in Portland, ME. The news was initially reported by NJ.com.

Let’s start in New Jersey, where Justin Louis has exited as APD/MD/afternoon personality at AC WOBM/Toms River; over at Classic Rock WCHR (105.7 The Hawk)/Manahawkin, APD/afternoon jock Andy Chase and midday talent Chris Varacchi have left, and Liz Jeressi is out as morning co-host at Hot AC WJLK (94.3 The Point)/Asbury Park, NJ after more than 20 years. In a Facebook post, Chase said, “It has been a wild ride and I could honestly say that I am one of the luckiest people in the world that I was able to go to a job every single day that I absolutely loved. I am so grateful for the opportunity that was given to me 12 years ago.” He added, “I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I am excited to see what’s next.” Chase can be easily contacted at chaseb985@aol.com. Reach out to Justin Louis at Justin@justinlouis.com, and make contact with Chris Varacchi at c_varacchi@yahoo.com.

RAMP reached out to Kurt Johnson, Townsquare SVP of Programming, who said, “We wish the departing staff the best, and we truly appreciate the contributions they made to the Jersey Shore stations. We want RAMP readers to know we are hiring new staff members there to bring our listeners the best local information and entertainment. Looking for a new morning co-host at The Point to work with the legendary Lou Russo, a cluster promotion director who will also hold down afternoons on 105.7 The Hawk, and an Assistant Director of Content, who will work with all the DJs on each station to develop great local content.” Qualified candidates should get their stuff to JB.Wilde@townsquaremedia.com.

Meanwhile, up in Portland, Kwame Danka has exited as Brand Manager and afternoon talent at Top 40 WJBQ (Q97.9), along with Tommy Carbone, Production Director/midday host at Classic Rock WBLM — a 30-year station veteran. Dankwa joined WJBQ a year ago, coming from the PD post at iHeartMedia Top 40 WRTS (Star 104)/Erie, PA. His programming resume also includes former iHeartMedia Top 40 KPWK (Power 93.3)/Seattle and two stints at Pamal Top 40 WZRT (Z97.1)/Rutland, VT. Dankwa can be reached at onairwithkd@gmail.com.