Troy Hanson

Robservations on the media beat:

Brian Thomas

Troy Hanson, who's been program director of alternative rock WKQX FM 101.1 since 2015, has been promoted to the new post of vice president, operations for Cumulus Media’s four-station group in Chicago. He now oversees news/talk WLS AM 890, classic hits WLS FM 94.7, classic rock WLUP FM 97.9 and 101 WKQX. Hanson continues as vice president, programming for the company’s rock formats and as program director of 101 WKQX. The company also announced a multiyear renewal for Brian Thomas as program director of WLS FM — a job he has held since 2015. "I am thrilled to have Troy and Brian returning to Cumulus Chicago for years to come,” Peter Bowen, vice president and Chicago market manager of Cumulus Media, said in a statement Friday. “They have both proven time and time again to be leaders and winners in our industry."

Linda MacLennan

You’ll soon hear another familiar voice on CBS Radio all-news WBBM AM 780/WCFS FM 105.9. Linda MacLennan, who was a top news anchor at CBS-owned WBBM-Channel 2 from 1987 to 2003, has signed on as a part-time anchor at WBBM Newsradio. “I’m BEYOND thrilled,” MacLennan told Facebook friends. “It’s an incredible time to be back in news, and it's an honor to be able to work in such an accomplished and respected newsroom.” She’s expected to start on the air in early June, according to station officials.

Crain's Chicago Business

For the first time in 27 years, Crain’s Chicago Business is requiring payment from people to be considered for its annual “40 Under 40” feature spotlighting up-and-coming business and civic leaders. Suggesting a subject now carries a $199 “nomination fee,” which must accompany each submission. “The nomination fee ensures that your candidate's name will be presented to the top editors of Crain's Chicago Business for consideration; it does not ensure your candidate will automatically make this honor roll,” according to the rules. Although Crain's editors will still make the final call on honorees, charging a fee for consideration does smack of pay to play.

Bill Leff

Next week’s Power Shares Tennis match at UIC Pavilion featuring John McEnroe, Andy Roddick, Jim Courier and Mark Philippoussis will come with a little something extra. Before the main event Wednesday, starting at 5:15 p.m., spectators can also see a Chicago Media All Stars Match. Credit Bill Leff, midday co-host on Tribune Broadcasting news/talk WGN AM 720 (and a lifelong tennis fanatic), with inspiring the promotion. Participating with Leff with be Mark Carman, sports host at WGN; Kelly Crull, host and reporter for CSN Chicago; and Brooke Weisbrod, ESPN college basketball announcer. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Mike Adamle

Friends of Mike Adamle farewell feted the veteran Chicago sportscaster at Harry Caray’s Wednesday. “The Running Back Retirement Party” toasted and roasted Adamle, who stepped down last March from NBC-owned WMAQ-Channel 5. Among the crowd were former Chicago Bears teammates and media colleagues, including one who described the emotional night as a “celebration touched with understandable sadness.” Adamle, 67, has been diagnosed with dementia, which is believed to be the final stage of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), resulting from his years as a pro football player.