Chris Michaels to Exit WFMD, Frederick
WFMD, Frederick, Maryland program director and morning drive host Chris Michaels announces via Facebook that he’s leaving the station. He posted, “After two and a half wonderful years as co-host of the ‘Morning News Express’ on Free Talk 930 WFMD and as program
director, I have submitted my notice. I’m grateful to Connoisseur Media, a fantastic company that, at the time, owned WFMD, and to Frank Mitchell, who hired me and trained me, for the opportunity to be part of this legendary station, and to my close friend and mentor, Bob Miller. My passion for radio is strong, and I look forward to returning to the airwaves as soon as my time at WFMD comes to an end. I love the radio industry. Who knows where this journey will take me next, but I hope it will still be in this area. You will hear me on the air again one day, because my radio career is NOT over. I still have a month here, and I am looking forward to finishing my time here. Primarily working with the fantastic team that I get to work with every day.”
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.