The COVID-19 pandemic has led radio companies across the country to make tough decisions, whittling staff to the bare minimum as advertising dollars dry up.
North Dakota’s KFGO (790 AM, 94.1 FM) is no different. The station recently dismissed long-time news reporter Jim Monk.
The story, first reported by The Forum, documents the slow demise of the award-winning KFGO newsroom. It also demonstrates ways in which the station’s owner, Midwest Communications of Wisconsin, acquires radio stations and sheds staff in an effort to reduce overhead.
During the summer, Tom Jennings voluntarily departed the station leaving just two reporters, Paul Jurgens and Don Haney, to handle the operation. Joel Morgan assists with weekend coverage.
KFGO’s news team has garnered Peabody, Marconi, and Edward R. Murrow awards for excellence in news reporting or coverage of big events.
