News Summary
Rob Lorei, a pivotal figure in community broadcasting and the co-founder of WMNF radio, has passed away at the age of 70 after a battle with cancer. With over four decades in journalism, Lorei was notable for his work on WEDU’s ‘Florida This Week’ and was deeply committed to fostering community engagement through independent media. His legacy will be remembered as he significantly influenced public broadcasting in West Central Florida.
Tampa, Florida – Rob Lorei, the co-founder of WMNF community radio and its Director of News and Public Affairs for 43 years, passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 70. His death follows a battle with cancer, which he publicly announced in March coinciding with his resignation from WEDU TV’s public affairs program, “Florida This Week.”
Lorei’s contributions to both WMNF and WEDU were significant. He moderated “Florida This Week” since 2001 and also served as the managing editor for the program. Despite his health challenges, he continued to work on WEDU’s interview series, “Perspectives.” The loss of Lorei resonates deeply within the community he passionately served.
In 1978, Lorei relocated to Tampa from Pennsylvania, where he took part in launching WMNF, a grassroots, commercial-free radio station, which became a platform for independent voices and community engagement. He often spoke fondly of the station’s early days, recalling the hands-on effort of building the control boards and soundproofing the station, an endeavor he described as a “labor of love.” He credited the support of community members for the station’s establishment and success.
Over the years, Lorei faced controversy during his tenure at WMNF. In 2019, he was dismissed by Station Manager Craig Kopp due to a programming disagreement. However, the decision prompted significant public outcry leading to his reinstatement. In 2021, he was let go again by Station Manager Rick Fernandes after an email exchange with a listener led to allegations of using an ethnic slur while discussing the Proud Boys, a right-wing extremist group. Lorei defended his term, “kapo,” as used in a political context rather than an ethnic insult and voiced pride in his contributions to WMNF.
Despite the controversies surrounding his dismissals, Lorei chose not to pursue legal action against WMNF afterward, emphasizing his dedication to the station and its mission. His commitment to foster community journalism remained steadfast even in the face of personal and professional challenges. During his final interview, he expressed concerns about contemporary journalism’s challenges while remaining hopeful for WMNF’s future programming to confront oppressive ideologies.
Paul Grove, WEDU’s President and CEO, highlighted Lorei’s impact on public broadcasting as a champion for the medium. He expressed sorrow over Lorei’s passing, underscoring the loss felt by the broadcasting community and its audience alike. Lorei was known for facilitating discussions that were fair and inclusive, garnering him a significant level of trust from listeners and contributors.
Lorei’s contributions to journalism in West Central Florida have left an indelible mark, as he was revered by many in the community. His efforts to challenge prevailing narratives and advocate for diverse perspectives will continue to resonate within the media landscape. As the community reflects on his legacy, many look forward to how WMNF will honor his memory in its programming and mission moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Veteran Bay Area Radio/TV Journalist Rob Lorei Dies
- Wikipedia: Journalism in Florida
- St. Pete Catalyst: Ousted WMNF Co-Founder Rob Lorei Breaks His Silence
- Google Search: Rob Lorei
- Florida Politics: Sacking Rob Lorei: A Decimation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Broadcasting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rob Lorei
- Google News: Rob Lorei
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