Connoisseur Morphs WICC, Bridgeport into “The Voice of Connecticut” to Fill Gap Left by the Late WCBS 880
Connoisseur Media tells TALKERS about a variety of significant changes for its Western Connecticut news/talk powerhouse, WICC 600 AM, Bridgeport – changes inspired by the closing of Audacy’s WCBS 880 in adjacent New York City. 
WICC is now “The Voice of Connecticut” expanding its reach by simulcasting on 95.9 FM, previously home to classic rock formatted “The Fox.” This strategic move is designed to strengthen WICC’s position as Fairfield County’s premier source for news, talk, and information. A pivotal part of this transformation is WICC’s new affiliation with CBS News, which will provide national news coverage at the top of every hour. Station officials tell TALKERS, this partnership reinforces WICC’s role as the region’s trusted news source, delivering timely and credible information to the communities it serves. “This rebranding and expansion to 95.9 FM represents a pivotal moment for WICC,” stated Keith Dakin, VP of Programming for Connoisseur Media. “The talent on our team, coupled with our new affiliation with CBS News, will allow us to meet the demand for news and talk programming in Southern Connecticut. We’re excited about this next phase and looking forward to serving a much wider geography and bigger audience.” But, as the saying goes, that’s not all. A new local daytime show from 12:00 noon-2:00 pm ET will be added beginning September 30th hosted by Brigitte Quinn who was the creator, host, and managing editor of “Newsline” on WCBS 880. She was the station’s first female morning-drive anchor and later anchored mornings on 1010 WINS. Quinn’s TV career includes roles at MSNBC, NBC News at Sunrise, and Fox News Channel. Quinn remarks, “Ever since my family and I moved back to beautiful Connecticut, I’ve become a faithful WICC listener. I’m delighted to be joining such a great news/talk radio station, ‘The Voice of Connecticut.’” Quinn’s addition brings WICC’s entire daytime lineup local as she joins talk hosts Melissa Sheketoff 5:00 am -10:00 am, Lisa Wexler 10:00 am-12:00 noon and Paul Pacelli from 2:00 pm-6:00 pm. New additions to weekend programming also include Emmy nominee Chef Plum, Mike Cerulli of WTNH, New Haven, and Dave Ruden of the Ruden Report covering local high school sports. The station plans to continue evolving in this direction with one more critical news reporter position to fill. “We invite Fairfield County listeners to tune in to ‘The Voice of Connecticut,’” says Kristin Okesson, SVP of Connoisseur Media Connecticut. 
“Our affiliation with CBS News paired with these exciting changes in programming reinforces our commitment to deliver modern, engaging content and we’re confident that our audiences will appreciate the new ‘voice’ they hear. I’m especially proud that our daytime shows are hosted by four incredibly talented hosts – three of them in particular are outstanding women in their own right.” WICC can be streamed at voiceofct.com. For more insight into these changes, check out WICC host Lisa Wexler’s interview conducted on air yesterday with company CEO Jeff Warshaw by clicking here.
Williamsburg, VA-based Local Daily Media acquires Connoisseur Media’s Frederick, Maryland news/talk WFMD “Free Talk 930” and country WFRE for $4.275 million. Connoisseur Media chief executive officer Jeff Warshaw tells TALKERS, “While it’s difficult for us to part with our Frederick stations, we were convinced that Local Daily Media’s management leadership and its focus in the Maryland/Virginia region could move these stations forward in a way we would be proud of. Senior management of Local Daily Media includes longtime Connoisseur partner Mike Dufort, who we have worked with closely and respect. Mike understands local radio and shares our view on the need for radio to be involved with and serve the local community.” Aforementioned Local Daily Media president Mike Dufort remarks, “With my nearly 11 years of working with Jeff and the entire Connoisseur team, I deeply understand and appreciate the care and nurturing that went into building these stations. I’m excited for the opportunity to continue along their journey to reaching even greater heights.” Meanwhile, Local Daily Media chief financial officer Adam Crotty adds, “We’re incredibly fortunate to welcome these legendary stations, along with their talented and dedicated teams, to our growing organization. Their rich history of supporting and improving the vibrant Frederick community will undoubtedly inspire our entire team to find new ways to positively impact each community we serve.” Connoisseur Media acquired “Free Talk 930” and WFRE five years ago from iHeartMedia’s Aloha Stations Trust in exchange for its Erie, Pennsylvania cluster.
Founded 11 years ago by Dave Ruden, The Ruden Report website (www.therudenreport.com) is dedicated to Fairfield County (Connecticut) sports news and information. Ruden will remain with the online publication as director of operations. Connoisseur Media owner/chief executive officer Jeff Warshaw comments, “We’re happy to have The Ruden Report join our family. We look forward to offering our audience local content with his exceptional reporting.” Connoisseur Media senior vice president/general manager Kristin Okesson states, “This addition to our programming lineup is a perfect fit for each station and their audiences. As someone who values high school sports coverage, I’m excited to bring The Ruden Report to our six radio stations. I know our Southern Connecticut listeners will enjoy the local updates and in-depth coverage of their favorite teams, athletes, and games.” Ruden adds, “My ongoing goal has been to cover more which is why I have decided to partner with Connoisseur Media. It is a company that has both a longstanding tradition of excellence and the infrastructure to help take The Ruden Report to the next level.” Connoisseur’s six Connecticut stations include Bridgeport heritage news/talk WICC.
including continuing to participate in RAB’s Rising Through the Ranks leadership development training and National Radio Talent System, a wholly owned subsidiary of the organization.” The organization goes on to say, “Under Farber’s stewardship, the RAB has reshaped the organization into a full-service integrated membership, business development and training concern as well as forged strong relationships within the advertising marketplace. Additionally, she has diversified and re-invigorated its board of directors to ensure the future of the 
trade association.” Speaking about Hulvey, Warshaw says, “Mike is an excellent selection with the relevant skills and expertise to lead the RAB. He has an impressive track record in corporate management and local radio expertise. In addition, as a past chair of the RAB he has a clear understanding of the organization and what the broadcast industry requires from RAB. He has a tremendous passion for the industry which will serve us all well.” Warshaw adds, “We thank Erica for her leadership over the past decade in helping to shape an organization that meets the needs of broadcasters today as well as for the future of the audio industry. She’s left an indelible imprint on the industry, and we can’t thank her enough for her commitment and passion to radio. It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with her.” Hulvey will work with Farber to ensure a smooth and successful transition during the next few months as her last day with the RAB will be April 30, 2024.
