The Mess at WINK

Last week, FTVLive FIRST told you that WINK (Ft. Myers) parted ways with their News Director.

A memo went out to the staff, informing them that Rich Garcia is no longer with the station.

The memo from WINK GM Jamie Ricks, who was bumped up from sales with no news experience.

Insiders say Ricks was smitten with a consultant from Magid, who made big promises and Ricks is putting full faith in.

Those that disagree with the “Magid way” are being let go and that has included the entire upper news management team.

Also, the owner of WINK is Jim Schwartzel, who happens to be running for congress. Insiders believe that he will use WINK to help get elected and some believe that Ricks will help him do so.

WINK is without a News Director or an Assistant News Director. There is a rumor floating around that Ricks is looking to hire former WPTV News Director Kathy Reynolds.

She is known for swinging the axe and that might be exactly what Ricks is looking for.