WCBS 880 reporter Peter Haskell has spent more than three decades with the station, but is stepping aside.
Haskell has announced he is resigning because of a progressive vocal disorder. In an email sent to the WCBS 880 staff, Haskell says he is suffering from Dysphonia, a vocal disorder with no obvious causes. He called the disorder “not life threatening but life altering”.
“I’ve come to the realization that what I’ve been doing is unsustainable. As much as I’ve tried, I just can’t overcome the problems with my voice,” Haskell said.
He added that the opportunity to work as a reporter for the station was “the journey of a lifetime”.
“I’m so grateful to have covered so many exciting events and memorable stories and to have met so many terrific people,” the email continued. “I’ve said for years, this is the best job in the world and I’ve loved it. Part of the fun has been sharing this ride with you. It’s been a privilege working with so many smart, talented and committed professionals. You’re the best of the best and you prove it every day. From the time I was a kid, I wanted to be on the radio. I had a cassette recorder and microphone from the five-and-dime and would do play-by-play off the TV and host my own shows. I’ve been fortunate to have lived my dream.”
Haskell’s departure is the latest in a line of changes for the station. Last week, longtime News Director and Brand Manager Tim Scheld announced his departure. Then Audacy New York announced sister-station 1010 WINS will be receiving a simulcast on 92.3 FM, in addition to the combining of the newsrooms between the two stations.
