Al Malmberg, laid off as the weekday overnight host at WCCO Radio (AM 830) about a month ago, is back on the air.
The gig at KSTP (AM 1500) is just temporary, however.
Malmberg, who was fired by WCCO in what the station described as a consequence of larger economic problems, is filling in at KSTP this week from 8-11 p.m. The usual host for that slot, Dave Thompson, is covering the noon-2 p.m. shift. Those two hours had been staffed by longtime host Tommy Mischke, who was fired in early December.
Thompson, in a chat board posting on KSTP's website, said he'll stay on the afternoon shift "until further notice" yet also described the noon-2 p.m. shift as "my new home."
One listener responded on that board that "it was so weird to hear the call sign 'AM1500' come out of [Malmberg's] mouth Monday. KSTP, please give Al the job permanently. He deserves it."
KSTP program director Steve Konrad said he's received a "pretty healthy supply of e-mails from people" reacting to Malmberg surfacing on KSTP. "They are all positive. I think that's a reflection of Al. He's the nicest guy."
Konrad said he and Malmberg have yet to discuss whether the arrangement will continue beyond this week.
PAUL WALSH
