In a complaint filed with the U.S. In response, Jeff England, vice president and market manager of Hubbard Radio Chicago, sent an email to staff published here that read in part: "This is not a new development, and weve thoroughly investigated this matter previously. ILLINOIS law strictly limits claims of defamation to statements that are so obviously hurtful on their face that damages are presumed, e.g., accusations of commission of a crime, infection with a communicable disease, or incompetence or malfeasance in ones profession, the filings say. MELISSA MCGURREN, who co-hosted "Eric in the Morning" during a 22-year stretch at the station, sued FERGUSON alleging a pattern of sexual misconduct. "As a result, and after discussions with Hubbard leadership, weve decided it is best that I step away from the show. Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. The court agrees with Hubbard that the statements have nothing to do with DeNicolos conduct on the job.. CYNTHIA DENICOLO, a former employee of WTMX filed the first lawsuit against FERGUSON, claiming he abused his power to coerce sexual favors from her early in her career and then prevented her from advancing after she rebuffed efforts to restart an unwanted sexual relationship. She also targeted HUBBARD in a complaint to the EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, shortly after leaving the station in DECEMBER 2020. After McGurren left WTMX, in December 2020, she filed a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Lawsuit against former radio host Eric Ferguson dropped. He was sidelined from his popular morning radio show last year. Try these pairings next time hunger hits, Mass traffic stops that dont stop crime show Chicago sorely needs policing reform, Concealed carry holder shoots robber who pulled gun on him and 2 other men in West Ridge, police say, Winnetka man dies after jumping into Lake Michigan to help children on tube. The Mix began the new year by shifting afternoon host Chris Petlak to mornings, leaving Lisa Allen in afternoons solo. Friday's comment of the day: Linda Shafran: Deloris MeBain was a sparkling light at NBC Tower. After hosting mornings for 25 years, Fergusons star came crashing down after multiple female employees accused the host of sexual misconduct. What I do know is I leave you in great hands. In filings made DECEMBER 23rd in US District Court in ILLINOIS, an attorney for HUBBARD said both defamation suits should be tossed because the companys innocuous statements dont fall within any of the strictly defined categories of statements recognized to be defamatory. Robservations: WGN Radio jumping the gun on turning 100; ABC 7's Judy Hsu, Ryan Chiaverini host Irish parade; Adam Hoge joins CHGO Sports, My childhood dream became the honor of a lifetime, Robservations: Sun-Times moving to Old Post Office; ABC 7 opens weekend anchor slot; Medill tracks local news decline, Robservations: StreetWise raises cover price; Sventoonie takes a break; Friends of Chicago Reporter mark 50. Whip, Nikki, Violeta, and Swanny are true professionals and the best at what they do. Judge dismisses defamation suit against broadcaster related to The next hearing in her lawsuit against Ferguson,which asserts claims of intentional infliction of emotionaldistress, is scheduled for Dec. 8. Luke Laidley, 43, was boating with friends off the 200 block of Sheridan Road early Tuesday afternoon when he noticed that the children appeared to be having problems, officials said. Ferguson was a star radio host at WTMX-FM 101.9, owned by Hubbard Radio Chicago. In various court filings since September, four women alleged misconduct by Ferguson and claimed the company ignored their complaints in order to protect him. Hinsdale, Illinois Provided A federal judge last week dismissed a defamation lawsuit stemming from alleged sexual misconduct by former Chicago radio personality Eric Ferguson. DENICOLO claimed that HUBBARD defamed her in statements it made to the CHICAGO TRIBUNE after the newspaper first reported on her original suit against FERGUSON. He and the station parted ways in November 2021. DeNicolos defamation claim against the radio company claimed its statement amounted to calling her a liar. What happened to Eric from 101.9 the mix? Chicago Radio Host Eric Ferguson Pulled Off Air Following New - Yahoo Mar 28, 2022 Updated Mar 28, 2022 Hubbard hot AC "101.9 The Mix" WTMX Chicago is closing the chapter on the Eric Ferguson era. McGurren, you'll recall, was co-host of Ferguson's morning show when she left in 2020 after 22 years at The Mix. Chris Petlak, a northwest suburban native whos been co-hosting afternoons at WTMX 101.9-FM since 2020, is moving to mornings, the Hubbard Radio hot adult-contemporary station announced today. CHICAGO After three women have accused radio host Eric Ferguson of fostering a sexist and hostile work environment, a former 101.9 FM "The Mix" employee is speaking out. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission that alleged Ferguson had harassed her. According to Robert Feder, a Chicago-based reporter, Jeff. But in a Nov. 28 written opinion, U.S. District Judge Franklin Valderrama of the Northern District of Illinois found the statements were nonactionable and did not defame DeNicolo. Lawsuit dropped against ex-Chicago radio host Eric Ferguson - CBS News DeNicolo, who was an associate producer on the morning show for 20 years before she was laid off in 2020, accused Ferguson in a lawsuit of coercing her into performing unwelcome sexual acts in. First published on June 27, 2023 / 11:23 PM. Judge dismisses defamation lawsuit related to Eric Ferguson - Audacy CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A federal judge last week dismissed a defamation lawsuit stemming from alleged sexual misconduct by former Chicago radio personality Eric Ferguson. David Eric Ferguson (born January 27, 1967), [1] [2] known professionally as Eric Ferguson, is a former Chicago morning radio personality who hosted a daily show on WTMX -FM for 25 years until 2021. Chris Petlak, who co-hosted afternoons on The Mix, was named in January to succeed Ferguson as morning host alongside regular contributors Nikki Chuminatto, Brian Paruch and Violeta Podrumedic and executive producer John Swanson. It will be fun to listen to their success. Sources confirmed he had two years left on his contract with Hubbard Radio. Chris Petlak England's October 5 email prompted McGurren to sue for defamation, alleging that his statement falsely branded her a liar by attacking her credibility and integrity. Eric Ferguson, the longtime morning show host of The Mix on WTMX 101.9-FM, announced Friday he's exiting the radio station amid multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, according to the Daily Herald's media columnist Robert Feder. A woman who accused former Chicago radio host Eric Ferguson of pressuring her to perform sex acts has dropped her lawsuit. (Daniel Boczarski/Getty). HUBBARD RADIO is asking a judge to dismiss the two defamation suits filed against the company in connection with allegations of sexual misconduct by former Hot AC WTMX (101.9 THE MIX)/CHICAGO Morning Host ERIC FERGUSON. Eric Ferguson Divorce: How Did it Actually Happen? - OtakuKart Radio host Eric Ferguson in a 2006 promotional photo. She subsequently filed two lawsuits, one against Ferguson and the other against Hubbard. Cook County Judge Daniel Kubasiak signed the order dropping DeNicolos suit June21. A wonderful woman. I'm energized to move forward and defend myself against claims made against me and the station, and look forward to seeing them through to their conclusion. McGurren was one of three female former station employees to raise allegations about Ferguson in court filings after DeNicolo filed her lawsuits. McGurren filed her own federal lawsuit against Hubbard shortly afterward. The defamation suit stems from a separate, and still pending, lawsuit filed in 2021 in which DeNicolo alleged Ferguson used his position as her boss to coerce her into a sexual relationship that he lorded over her in humiliating fashion. The request to drop the suit was granted with prejudice, which means she cannot refile. He and the station parted ways in November 2021. He joined The Mix in 1996 and went on to become the highest-paid radio personality in Chicago. Additional allegations followed before Ferguson was taken off the air in early October. Eric Ferguson Divorced? Know About His Marriage Life Eric Ferguson where is he now 2023? - Vim Buzz MCGURREN also brought an EEOC Charge of Discrimination and demand for arbitration against HUBBARD (NET NEWS 10/18). DeNicolos position is that the statements not only accuse her of on-the-job malfeasance but also prejudice her in her trade and profession. Ferguson married Jennifer, a dentist from Chicago. decision dismissing McGurrens defamation claim, Teatro ZinZanni will return to Chicago in the fall, Comings & Goings: Restaurants open in Palos Heights, Matteson, and more, Column: Increasing tensions between North and South Korea reflect profound realities, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Eric Ferguson attends a Rosemont concert in 2015. By remaining on this website, you indicate your consent. The suit had been filed by Cynthia DeNicolo against her former employer, Hubbard Radio Chicago, the company that brings "The Mix" to the airwaves at 101.9-FM. Although no longer called "Eric in the Morning," The Mix morning show is expected to continue with his former cohortsBrian Whip Paruch,Nikki Chuminatto and Violeta Podrumedic. Suit claiming radio personality Eric Ferguson coerced sex from Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and in later court filings, McGurren said Ferguson subjected her to an unbearable hostile work environment with the knowledge of their bosses. Jennifer is a Chicago-based dentist. A new lawsuit filed by the ACLU of Illinois says fewer than 1% of the more than 2.6 million stops made by Chicago police over six years resulted in an arrest or the discovery of illegal drugs or a gun. An attorney for Ferguson did not return a message seeking comment, nor did a representative of Hubbard Radio Chicago. I am confident that at the end of the day the courts will rule and the right outcome will prevail. Chicago radio host Eric Ferguson faced a new accusation of creating a hostile workplace Tuesday and was pulled off the air as a result. For the second time, a federal judge has dismissed a defamation lawsuit related to the way Hubbard Radio Chicago handled misconduct allegations against onetime star host Eric Ferguson. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: You have permission to edit this article. Representatives for Hubbard and Ferguson did not respond to requests for comment. Chicago Journalists to honor Dorothy Tucker with Lifetime Achievement Award; Kelly Bauer as Journalist of the Year, My childhood dream became the honor of a lifetime, Robservations: Sun-Times moving to Old Post Office; ABC 7 opens weekend anchor slot; Medill tracks local news decline, Robservations: StreetWise raises cover price; Sventoonie takes a break; Friends of Chicago Reporter mark 50. Thank you for helping a smalltown boy from Elburn realize his dreams come true. (Daniel Boczarski/Getty) For the second time, a federal judge has dismissed a. The dismissal of Melissa McGurren's $10 million defamation lawsuit against Hubbard Radio Chicago doesn't mean the end of legal problems for Eric Ferguson or the parent company of hot adult-contemporary WTMX 101.9-FM. A new lawsuit filed by the ACLU of Illinois says fewer than 1% of the more than 2.6 million stops made by Chicago police over six years resulted in an arrest or the discovery of illegal drugs or a gun. Like McGurren, DeNicolo sued Hubbard for defamation after the company said it found no evidence to corroborate allegations of illegal workplace conduct. Hubbard attorneys are seeking to have that suit dismissed as well. DeNicolos attorney, Carmen Caruso, responded no comment when asked why DeNicolo decided to end the lawsuit and whether a settlement was involved. It has been the honor and privilege of my life to be lucky enough to be a part of yours. WTMX Chicago Completes Post-Eric Ferguson Lineup. The house Ferguson just sold had a $20,654 property tax bill in the 2020 tax year. Ferguson denies any inappropriate conduct. Last week U.S. District Court Judge Ronald A. Guzmn rejected McGurren's claim and granted Hubbards motion to dismiss her suit. In court filings, McGurren said Ferguson demeaned, harassed and ridiculed her when they worked together. Ferguson's former assistant producer, Cynthia DeNicolo, also said in the lawsuit that station owners retaliated by blocking promotions and ultimately used COVID-19 to terminate her. A status hearing in DeNicolos lawsuit against Ferguson is scheduled for Thursday in Cook County Circuit Court. The men were standing near a car in the 2600 block of West Devon Avenue when someone approached, displayed a gun and demanded their property early Wednesday, police said. 1 radio personality while Kathy put an end to her career. Here is the complete text of Ferguson's statement: Many of you have asked if I am returning to the air on November 1st. (Daniel Boczarski/Getty) A woman who accused former WTMX-FM morning host Eric . She was laid off in 2020. For many years, Ferguson has grossly abused his power, and his conduct was the major reason the station became a hostile working environment, former co-host Melissa McGurren alleged, labeling him a serial abuser of women.. Suit claiming radio personality Eric Ferguson coerced sex from colleague is dropped, other women who accused Ferguson of workplace misconduct, Movie gives South Sides Khalil Everage the high school experience he never had. The five-bedroom farmhouse-style house was put up for sale for $1.5 million on JULY 30th, nearly two years after FERGUSON paid $1.4 million. I have been extremely touched by your unwavering support and kind messages. A former assistant producer for Ferguson, Cynthia DeNicolo, had alleged the company defamed her last year by stating it found no evidence to corroborate her allegations that Ferguson engaged in illegal workplace conduct at WTMX-FM 101.9. Where are you?, Heres every Chicago restaurant spotted during Sydneys food tour in The Bear, Highland Park comes together one year after Fourth of July parade mass shooting, Looking for healthy snacks? Over and out: Eric Ferguson leaves The Mix | Robert Feder In her lawsuit against Ferguson, DeNicolo alleged that he blocked raises and promotions, then orchestrated her dismissal after she refused to resume a brief sexual relationship that occurred early in her career. WTMX afternoon host Chris Petlak succeeded Ferguson as host of the morning show on The Mix in January. Statements HUBBARD made in response to DENICOLOs and MCGURRENs suits are at issue in the defamation complaints that HUBBARD now wants to be dismissed. Try these pairings next time hunger hits, Mass traffic stops that dont stop crime show Chicago sorely needs policing reform, Concealed carry holder shoots robber who pulled gun on him and 2 other men in West Ridge, police say, Winnetka man dies after jumping into Lake Michigan to help children on tube. shifting afternoon host Chris Petlak to mornings. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Where are you? Judge dismisses defamation suit against broadcaster related to allegations of misconduct by former radio host Eric Ferguson, It was also dismissed in federal court last spring, Movie gives South Sides Khalil Everage the high school experience he never had. What happened to Eric Ferguson? - Cowetaamerican.com Christy Gutowski and Tracy Swartz of the Chicago Tribune first reported on DeNicolossuit against Ferguson in September and have continued to advance the story. This ends a two-year battle for Ferguson, who stepped away from his popular show on The Mix 101.9, WTMX-FM, in October 2021. A separate lawsuit she filed against Ferguson remains active. I'm energized to move forward and defend myself against claims made against me and the station, and look forward to seeing them through to their conclusion. Ferguson stepped down as host of the popular show in October, amid outcry over McGurrens allegations and claims of sexual assault and workplace harassment made by other female employees of The Mix.. U.S. District Judge Franklin Valderrama, in an opinion filed Nov. 28, disagreed with DeNicolo and found that Hubbards statement did not defame her. A woman who accused former Chicago radio host Eric Ferguson of pressuring her to perform sex acts has dropped her lawsuit. The former morning host at Hubbard Radio hot AC 101.9 The Mix WTMX Chicago has sold his home in suburban Hinsdale for $1.35 million, according to a story in the Chicago Tribune. It was also dismissed in federal court last spring and Valderrama cited the dismissal in support of his recent decision. The women claimed the companys statement amounted to calling them liars. Eric Ferguson, the longtime morning show host of The Mix on WTMX 101.9-FM, announced Friday hes exiting the radio station amid multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, according to the Daily Heralds media columnist Robert Feder. Valderrama said the analysis in McGurrens lawsuit was applicable and persuasive in DeNicolos case because the companys published statements in both situations were similar. After hosting mornings for 25 years, Ferguson's star came crashing down after multiple female employees accused the host of sexual misconduct. Luke Laidley, 43, was boating with friends off the 200 block of Sheridan Road early Tuesday afternoon when he noticed that the children appeared to be having problems, officials said. 2023 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. What kind of habitat does a Mediterranean house gecko need? The five-bedroom farmhouse-style house was put up for sale for $1.5 million on July 30, nearly two years after Ferguson paid $1.4 million. He was sidelined from his popular morning radio show last year. DeNicolo, who worked at WTMX, the station known as The Mix, for nearly 20 years, was laid off in 2020. Ethan played varsity soccer at Benet Academy, while Avery attended The Chicago Academy For The Arts. Expand. DeNicolo was laid off from the station in May 2020 after a nearly 20-year career. A federal judge last week dismissed a defamation lawsuit stemming from alleged sexual misconduct by former Chicago radio personality Eric Ferguson. Cynthia DeNicolo filed the suit in 2021, which also accused Ferguson of . The suit had been filed by Cynthia DeNicolo against her former employer, Hubbard Radio Chicago, the company that brings "The Mix" to morning . Ferguson had been off the air throughout October while bosses of the Hubbard Radio hot adult-contemporary station considered his fate. First The Show, Now The House: Former Chicago Morning Host Eric Feder flashback: So you think you know Chicago television. To fill the morning show vacancy created by the departure of Eric Ferguson following several sexual abuse and harassment charges, Hubbard hot AC 101.9 The Mix WTMX Chicago promotes from within.

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