May 04, 2005

Chicago-area social features broadcasters

by Greg Scott

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- John Williams, Chicago's WGN Radio's award-winning afternoon drive show host, and Mike Reis, Southern Illinois University Carbondale sports broadcaster for 26 years, will be guest hosts of a Southern Social on May 21 in Downers Grove. Alumni and friends of SIUC living in the Chicago area are invited to gather at 6 p.m. in the DoubleTree Guest Suites (2111 Butterfield Road).

The SIU Alumni Association and its Chicago Steering Committee, in association with the Saluki Family Association, are coordinating the event.

Activities include networking opportunities through a business card exchange, and an SIU alumni members-only raffle will be conducted for an autographed Saluki basketball and tickets to the annual SIU Day at Wrigley Field. Saluki apparel will be available for purchase from the University Bookstore.

Refreshments include snacks, hors d'oeuvres, and a cash bar. The cost is $10 per person for Alumni Association members; nonmembers pay $50 (which includes the cost to attend the event in addition to an annual membership purchase). Nonmembers interested in joining the SIU Alumni Association can complete the application process on site. Annual membership is $40, and life membership is $500, with life installment plans available.

Williams, who has hosted WGN Radio 720's weekday afternoon drive show since February 2000, has received several broadcasting awards. He won "Personality of the Year" honors at the Illinois Broadcasters Association Silver Dome Awards in 2001. At the March of Dimes Achievement in Radio Awards, he was honored twice. In the News, Talk, Personality, and Sports Station category, his program was named "Best Afternoon Show" and he received "Best Talent" honors.

A 1981 graduate of SIUC, Williams has also written several opinion pieces for the Chicago Tribune.

Reis, Voice of the Saluki sports scene for 26 years, will serve as special host of the function. A 1978 graduate of SIUC, Reis was inducted into the University's sports Hall of Fame this year. He is also a life member of the SIU Alumni Association.

To make reservations, call the SIU Alumni Association at 618/453-2408, or register online at siualumni.com. (under the Upcoming Events link).