Beloved Frederick Radio Host Tom Whalen Retires After 26 Years

The morning show anchor signed off for the final time, leaving a void in the community.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:49am

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An extreme close-up of a vintage radio microphone, its metallic surface reflecting dramatic studio lighting and casting dramatic shadows, evoking the glamour and nostalgia of classic radio broadcasting.After 26 years of waking up Frederick with his charismatic presence, beloved radio host Tom Whalen signs off for the final time.Brunswick Today

After 26 years as the beloved morning show host of WFRE in Frederick, Maryland, Tom Whalen is retiring. Whalen has been a fixture on the airwaves since 1999, first hosting the afternoon slot before becoming the morning anchor in 2008. His charismatic presence and ability to connect with listeners made him a local legend, and his retirement marks the end of an era for the station.

Why it matters

Whalen's retirement will leave a significant void in the Frederick community, as he has been the friendly voice waking up residents for over a decade. Finding a replacement that can replicate his talent for connecting with the audience through the radio will be a challenge for the station.

The details

Whalen first joined WFRE in 1999, hosting the afternoon show before transitioning to the morning slot in 2008. He has co-hosted the morning show with Dina Carole and Dianah Gibson over the years, entertaining listeners with his charismatic personality. Whalen has also hosted the popular 'Sunday Rewind' program, with his final episode airing on January 4th, 2026.

  • Whalen joined WFRE in 1999.
  • He became the morning show host in 2008.
  • Whalen's final 'Sunday Rewind' episode aired on January 4th, 2026.
  • Whalen's last day on the air was on April 13th, 2026.

The players

Tom Whalen

The beloved morning show host of WFRE in Frederick, Maryland, who is retiring after 26 years on the air.

Dina Carole

Whalen's former co-host on the WFRE morning show.

Dianah Gibson

Whalen's current co-host on the WFRE morning show.

WFRE

The radio station in Frederick, Maryland where Whalen has worked for the past 26 years.

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What they’re saying

“Whalen's ability to connect with people through the airwaves is a rare talent, and finding a replacement won't be easy.”

— Anonymous, WFRE listener

What’s next

WFRE will need to find a new morning show host to replace Whalen, a process that will likely involve auditions and listener feedback to find the right personality to fill his shoes.

The takeaway

Tom Whalen's retirement marks the end of an era for Frederick's radio listeners, who have grown accustomed to his friendly voice waking them up each morning. His ability to connect with the community through the airwaves will be difficult to replicate, leaving the station with the challenge of finding the right successor to carry on his legacy.