Two weeks ago, I posted a note here that I would soon have a major announcement about my next media stop.
In turn, all you loyal readers have patiently waited for me to spill the beans. I've even received several dozen e-mails from folks wanting some early hints, while others even offered educated guesses.
I can now finally and proudly make that announcement:
Effective immediately, I have joined the all-new ESPNChicago.com as a Columnist.
The first foray by ESPN.com to build local sports Web sites -- plans are in the works to do the same in coming months in Dallas, LA, New York and Pittsburgh, for starters -- ESPNChicago.com provides me an opportunity I have long sought: to return to my roots in sports such as baseball, football, basketball and hockey.
To say the least, I am both overjoyed and excited. I have long sought to return to the ESPN family, having served as lead NASCAR Columnist and writer for ESPN.com from 2001 to 2004.
My reaction to returning to the Worldwide Leader? All I can say is Wahoo! (because I don't Yahoo anymore).
The official launch for ESPNChicago.com is April 13, just in time for the Cubs' home opener at Wrigley Field.
However, don't think I'll forget my NASCAR roots. I still intend on continuing my presence here at JerryBonkowski.com -- and will soon expand some of the offerings to my loyal readership (including getting back on a regular schedule with our popular weekly mailbag).
By joining ESPNChicago.com, I may not be going to as many races as I have in the past, but I still fully intend on keeping my finger on the pulse of NASCAR.
Here's a link to one of the stories announcing my new affiliation: http://sportsmedianews.com/04/opening-day-espnchicagocom-launches-monday-april-13/
So, bookmark it now and visit it often, even if you're not from the Windy City. Remember: ESPNChicago.com!
PS: Hey, DW (yes, THAT DW), remember our convo a couple weeks ago? I told you I'd be back soon! Now, can I get a "Boogity, boogity, boogity!" from you? (haha)
Congrats, Bonk! We'll be reading you at your new home, but don't forget us NASCAR fans here. We'll be holding you to your word to keep giving us the best stories and columns in the sport! And as for the Sportsxchange wire service, I have to give you credit. You did your usual great job of calling it like it is. Too bad the money wasn't there. Given how low NASCAR is going on the media attention totem poll with the general sports fan, they should have hired you instead of that guy they have now who all but kisses NASCAR's butt. Oh wait, that's right, NASCAR pays for that wire service, so I guess they have editorial control. Everything is blue skies and sunshine in their world, even though it really is storm clouds, lightning and thunder. If they think they can manage the news with only all-good stories, they're sadly mistaken. If they would have brought you on, they would have had instant credibility, something they don't have right now with that Jimmy Spencer fellow (or whatever the heck his name is).
ReplyDeleteLoved that "Wahoo! (I don't Yahoo anymore)" line in your announcement! Good luck, Jer. You're one of the good ones, unlike the former place you worked at. Hope you and the wife can find your way to the East Coast sometime soon. We've got a date for Maine lobsters, remember?
ReplyDeleteKudos, Jerry! This sounds like a tremendous opportunity for you - and for ESPN! I look forward to seeing the new product, and seeing your takes on other sports as well. Now I know you're a Chicago boy, but go easy on my beloved STL Cardinals! ;)
ReplyDeleteLooks like you are going to be a busy man, but I am sure a guy like you wouldn't have it any other way. Once again, a big congratulations to you on your big announcement!
Way to go Jerry! I'm sure it will be nice for you to stay close to home for a change. By the way, you’re not the only one who doesn't "YaHoo" any more...
ReplyDeleteSome of the best memories I have from my childhood is ridding the "L" to Wrigley with my Grandfather when we would go to Visit each summer. I envy you being able to do that, and get paid for it!
Congrats Jerry, ESPN has got to be one of the smartest sports outlets for picking up one of the best writers around.
Jerry,
ReplyDeleteCongrats and good luck!
Inform your new boss that they need to add you to the site.
http://espn.go.com/chicago/columns/index
Congrats, Jerry. You'll do great. Glad you will continue to keep us NASCAR followers updated through this blog as well. Blessings to you and your family on this new adventure!
ReplyDeleteHi Ted: My first column won't be up likely until Tuesday, and due to the content management system that ESPN uses, my pic and bio won't show up until my first story appears. So, you'll see everything once it gets posted. Thanks for pointing that out, though. Best ..... JB
ReplyDeleteI'm late with my congrats, having been ill for the past week and not able to get online. I am so pleased for you!! Don't forget to post regularly here tho. Love Ya Jerry.
ReplyDeleteWhy am i not surprised!!!! congrats, Dr. Word........soooooooo happy for you. Congrats to ESPN for making such a smart decision.....this is awesome for Chicago sports fans......
ReplyDeleteJerry, congrats on the new position! I've been a silent reader/lurker/fan of yours for quite a while. I've always enjoyed reading your articles irregardless of whether I agreed with all of them or not! My point is this - Yahoo Sports NASCAR coverage is HORRIBLE now ... I used to look forward to getting my editorial fill before the race but not anymore. I hope you continue writing about NASCAR - I'll be following you to ESPN!
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