Pregnant and jobless in Fresno

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Clear Channel has gotten itself a load of bad publicity in Fresno, stemming from the May firing of Athena Matsikas as morning co-host on Country KHGE-FM. She was eight months pregnant at the time. KHGE switched from a personality morning show to an all music show with no DJs – "Music first! Mornings." Former co-host Chuck Geiger, known as "Uncle Buck," who is also Program Director, moved to afternoons.


The Fresno Bee reports that Matsikas has now sued Clear Channel and Geiger, charging sex harassment; pregnancy discrimination; failure to maintain an environment free from harassment; negligent supervision, hiring and retention; wrongful termination in violation of public policy; sexual battery; intentional infliction of emotional distress; negligent infliction of emotional distress; and retaliation.

By the way, the story ranks among the "most read" on the business section of the newspaper's website. Geiger sent out an email denying the allegations. "I have not engaged in any form of discrimination, harassment or terse environment," he said, adding that the firing was "a management decision above my head." Clear Channel Radio Fresno market manager Jeff Negrete did not return a call from RBR seeking comment.