Radio has been hit hard in a number of ways by the Covid-19 pandemic. Industry figures like Workhouse Media’s John McConnell are recovering from the virus. Stations are adding music from artists lost to the virus, like Joe Diffie, back into heavy rotation.
In sports radio, there has been a lot of news to cover. Former ESPN and current DAZN leader John Skipper has recovered from the virus and is working from home. Several NBA players have tested positive.
At one broadcast group though, the pandemic has hit close to home. Dickey Broadcasting in Atlanta has had two talents effected by the virus in two very different ways.
Mark Zinno, afternoon host at 106.3 the Sports X, is a Lt. Colonel in the Georgia National Guard. He was called into service at the end of March.
“Whenever that bell rings, it’s never something that I’m running from; it’s something that I’m running towards,” Zinno said in an interview with the Georgia Swarm’s Ty Merrow. Zinno is a broadcaster for the National Lacrosse League franchise. “If the opportunity is there for me to help serve my state and fellow citizens, then I want to be at the forefront of that.”
Across the hall, Matt Chernoff, half of Chuck & Chernoff on 680 the Fan, is mourning the loss of his father. Chernoff tweeted Tuesday that his father battled Covid-19 for close to a week before succumbing to the virus.
Barrett Sports Media joins Chernoff’s colleagues at 680 the Fan in expressing condolences for his family.
