Jeff Angileri, Class of 2002

Jeff joined WMSN Fox 47 and WKOW ABC 27 in Madison, Wisconsin in June of 2008, on the day the skies poured down a deluge of rain across southern Wisconsin.

Jeff Angileri WKOW ABC 27 in Madison, Wisconsin head shot.Jeff Angileri WKOW ABC 27 in Madison, Wisconsin head shot

In his first week, he traveled hundreds of miles, talking with people and documenting Wisconsin's worst natural disaster.

He calls it an unforgettable and humbling experience. "I really got to know the people in this area, and their communities," Jeff said. "Their resilience is amazing."

He previously worked in the Northwoods of Wisconsin at WJFW-TV (NBC) Newswatch 12 in Rhinelander, where he was the morning anchor, (assistant) producer, and reporter. Jeff joined WJFW-TV  in September 2006 as Morning Anchor/Assistant Producer, and Reporter.

From a very early age, Jeff knew he wanted to become a television journalist. While watching distinguished broadcasters like Peter Jennings, Jeff learned the craft and started reporting and anchoring news in high school for WRHS-TV 19 and WRWX-TV 4.

Jeff earned his bachelor's degree in journalism at UW-Whitewater. He gained extensive experience working at UWW-TV 19, a cable station serving the greater Whitewater Area. While at UW-Whitewater, Jeff served as anchor and producer of the news division. Under his leadership, UWW-TV News was recognized as the "Best Student Newscast" by the Wisconsin Broadcaster's Association in 2006. In addition, Jeff was commissioned by UW-Whitewater to produce and narrate a film documentary of the University's history. Also in 2006, he worked as an intern at WISN-TV in Milwaukee.

After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism from UW-Whitewater, Jeff came to the Northwoods, which he considers "one of the most beautiful places in the country."

Jeff always takes advantage of Wisconsin's lakes, as he loves swimming, boating, waterskiing, ice hockey, and reading books on the piers. He is a die hard Cubs, Bears, Blackhawks, and Wolves fan.

Jeff hails from Norridge, Illinois, the "island within a city," as it is a suburban island surrounded by the city of Chicago.

Some recent stories covered by Jeff Angileri on WKOW-ABC 27:
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=10098850
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=10091192
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=10050920
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=10040094
http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?s=10032344

Last Updated by Ryan Michaels on April 02, 2009
Joe Bartosch, Class of 1978
Joe Bartosch is a local radio personality with a nationally syndicated radio show, "The Super Groovy 70's Show. Currently he produces the nationally syndicated morning show, "Rover's Morning Glory." That show was formerly heard on CBS Radio WCKG FM 105.9 "Free FM" in Chicago. He is also senior producer for the Chicago Bears football broadcasts on Chicago's WBBM-AM, Newsradio 780 and the Bears Radio Network.

Joe got his start in broadcasting on WRHS Rebel Radio, now 89.7 WRHS Jack FM.

Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on September 22, 2006
Wall of Fame salutes four from Ridgewood
Master of Ceremonies Jeffrey Angileri described the foundations of Ridgewood High School's building, and the purposes of the Ridgewood Foundation in supporting modern students with scholarships and recognition. 
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)Master of Ceremonies Jeffrey Angileri described the foundations of Ridgewood High School's building, and the purposes of the Ridgewood Foundation in supporting modern students with scholarships and recognition.
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)

Four alumni were inducted into the Ridgewood High School Hall of Fame at the Ridgewood Foundation's third annual Hall of Fame brunch on Saturday, September 29, 2007 in the cafeteria at the school, 7500 West Montrose Avenue.

Proud mom Judy Scheuring (left) talks to a friend as her son, Dr. Richard Scheuring, greets people. He was inducted Saturday into the Ridgewood Hall of Fame. (Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)Proud mom Judy Scheuring (left) talks to a friend as her son, Dr. Richard Scheuring, greets people. He was inducted Saturday into the Ridgewood Hall of Fame.
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)

Gary Niederkorn, Class of 1968, nominated by his nephew, Jeffrey Angileri, Class of 2002; Kimberly Garnier Roos, Class of 1996, nominated by Eileen McGing; Richard Scheuring, Class of 1982, nominated by Marie Kalck; and Steven Spychalski, Class of 1992, nominated by his mother, Judy Spychalski, Class of 1965, join five prior inductees in the school's growing Hall of Fame.

Judy Scheuring of Harwood Heights (center) hugs a friend at the Ridgewood Foundation's third annual alumni hall of fame induction luncheon at the high school. 
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)Judy Scheuring of Harwood Heights (center) hugs a friend at the Ridgewood Foundation's third annual alumni hall of fame induction luncheon at the high school.
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)

The Ridgewood Foundation, 501(c)(3), was formed in 1998. Its mission statement is: The object and purpose of this non-profit Foundation shall be the encouragement and educational advancement for the students of Ridgewood High School with the help and support of the community.

Judy Scheuring of Harwood Heights (center) hugs a friend at the Ridgewood Foundation's third annual alumni hall of fame induction luncheon at the high school. 
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)Judy Scheuring of Harwood Heights (center) hugs a friend at the Ridgewood Foundation's third annual alumni hall of fame induction luncheon at the high school.
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)

Proud mom Judy Scheuring (left) talks to a friend as her son, Dr. Richard Scheuring, greets people. He was inducted Saturday into the Ridgewood Hall of Fame. (Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)Proud mom Judy Scheuring (left) talks to a friend as her son, Dr. Richard Scheuring, greets people. He was inducted Saturday into the Ridgewood Hall of Fame.
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)

Master of Ceremonies Jeffrey Angileri described the foundations of Ridgewood High School's building, and the purposes of the Ridgewood Foundation in supporting modern students with scholarships and recognition. 
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)Master of Ceremonies Jeffrey Angileri described the foundations of Ridgewood High School's building, and the purposes of the Ridgewood Foundation in supporting modern students with scholarships and recognition.
(Joel Wintermantle/for Pioneer Press)

Angileri, who emceed the ceremonies, is one of 13 of his family members to graduate from Ridgewood to date.

"My younger sister will graduate in May," he said, adding, "and there are five more on the way."

In 2001, the foundation awarded its first two $1,000 scholarships. In 2002, Angileri was a Ridgewood Foundation scholarship himself. It wasn't the largest award he received, nor the most prestigious. But it meant the most, he said.

"It was like an invisible greeting card signed by my teachers, our neighbors, police officers, firefighters -- even the mailman," he said.

To date, the foundation has awarded 25 scholarships, said Joe Bartosch, Class of 1978 and a 2006 Hall of Fame Inductee. The annual brunch and silent auction is a principal fundraiser for future scholarships.

Inductee Gary Niederkorn told the crowd the cafeteria they were sitting in was "the one room at Ridgewood I excelled in." He accepted his award on behalf of the entire Class of 1968 and his twin sister, Barbara, whom he called "one of my personal heroes.

Niederkorn, an electrician who worked on high-profile projects, serves today as treasurer of IBEW, Local 134 and advocates for equal opportunity and diversity in the workplace. He has worked for years for charities, principally those that benefit children.

Inductee Kimberly Roos, a scientist focusing on nanotechnology, earned her doctorate in materials science and engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign. She has worked to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, and she chairs the State Executive Committee for Rainbow, a service organization for girls.

"For all of us from the Class of 1996," she said, accepting her award. "I am very honored."

Inductee Richard Schuering, is currently an advanced projects flight surgeon at UTMB/WYLE Laboratories and NASA flight surgeon at the Johnson Space Center. He earned his doctorate in osteopathic medicine at the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and served as an intern and resident in Denver and an aerospace medicine resident at Wright State University in Dayton, where he also earned his master's degree in aerospace medicine.

"To those who've been given much, much is expected," Schuering said, admitting, "I miss Chicago."

Inductee Steven Spychalski earned his bachelor's degree in advertising at the University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign. In 2002, he founded Metropolitan Valuation Services, Inc. He served in the Illinois Army National Guard from 1992 to 1998. Charities he has served include Ronald McDonald Charities.

"Ridgewood has given me a lot," Spychalski said. "The work ethic has served me well, Compared to athletic practices here, boot camp is a walk in the park."

Pre-induction entertainment was provided by the Ridgewood Jazz Band, conducted by Steve Klaus. William Bohman, Class of 2009, played a variety of piano selections during brunch. The buffet was catered by Quest, which donated the food for the event.

Members of the Ridgewood Foundation's board of directors include: Paul Draniczarek, Robert Lupo, Cheryl Flinn, Joanna Skupien, Judith Dunne Bernardi, Judy Biancalana, Megan Cantos, Jackie Gregorio, Anthony Lupo and Daniel R. Romito.

Article written by Staff Writer Wynn Koebel Foster in the October 4 and 10, 2007 issues of the Pioneer Press Norridge and Harwood Heights News and online at http://www.pioneerlocal.com/norridge/news/586062,no-alumbrunch--100407-s1.article. Used with permission.

Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on October 04, 2007
Joining the Hall of Fame
The Ridgewood Foundation Board of Directors honored three of Ridgewood High School's distinguished alumni with induction into its Hall of Fame at the second annual brunch held Saturday, October 7, 2006 at the school, 7500 West Montrose Avenue, in Norridge. Proceeds from the event go to the foundation, which sponsors scholarships for graduating seniors.

"By honoring the achievements and successes of our graduates, we can inspire our students," said Ridgewood High School Superintendent Robert Lupo.

Brunch was catered by Quest, the school's food-service provider. Music during brunch was supplied by pianist Betsy Bruns, a member of the Class of 2006. Guests browsed through the dozens of items in the silent auction, proceeds from which were donated to the foundation.

Then the induction ceremonies began.

"Who knew those morning announcements would lead to 'The Super Groovy 70's Show'?" asked Jayne Artwick, introducing nominee Joe Bartosch, Class of 1978.

"I have to admit I was taken aback -- humbled and very flattereed," Bartosch said. "WRHS radio -- that basis has carried me throughout my career. I do love Ridgewood."

Nominee Cynthia DiLeonardo, who made nursing her career, a member of the Class of 1976, was introduced by her daughter, Noelle. She cited her mother's character, saying "It really shines through."

"I'm totally honored and so proud," Cynthia DiLeonardo told the crowd. "Never stop learning. Motivation is the key to success."

Anthony Lupo, a 2005 Hall of Fame inductee, introduced nominee James Palumbo, Class of 1967. Palumbo is president of Sony Television and Digital Media Company.

"This shows how far one can go if one puts no limits on oneself," Palumbo said. "It's really nice to be back in my old home town."

Musical interludes were provided by Ridgewood's Concert Chorus, directed by Monica Hansen and accompained by Nadya Saroka.

The Ridgewood Foundation holds two major fundraisers each year -- the Hall of Fame Brunch in October and the Lucky Loser Dance in April. Foundation Board Permanent Directors include: Daniel R. Romito, chairman; Robert Lupo, vice chairman; and Cheryl Flinn, treasurer. Directors are: Joanna Skupien, secretary; Judith Dunne Bernardi; Jacqueline Gregorio; Judy Biancalana; Anthony Lupo; and Megan Cantos.

Article written by Wynn Koebel Foster, Staff Writer; and printed in the October 19, 2006 issue of the Pioneer Press Norridge and Harwood Heights News and online at http://www.pioneerlocal.com/norridge/news/101774,no-halloffame-101906-s1.article. Used with permission.

Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on January 05, 2007
Other Successful WRHS Alumni
WRHS - TV program host Mike Czarkowski and Dan Lewandowski ended up studying and working in the communications field. Czark is a Chicago area radio personality, and can be heard on WSBC AM and WCFJ AM. Dan Lewandowski is an engineer with KERA FM (NPR) in Dallas, Texas.

Tom Price, while not directly a part of WRHS, edited the school newspaper The Nucleus. He and Lewandowski have become unofficial historians for WRHS television and radio. Tom Price is Assistant to the Mayor of South Bend, Indiana with a focus on community promotion. Before that, he was manager of print communications for the Mennonite Missions Board.

Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on June 18, 2007
Ridgewood grad hits airwaves in Wisconsin
Residents of north central Wisconsin will soon be waking up to "Newswatch 12 Today" on NBC-affiliate WJFW-TV -- produced and anchored by Jeffrey Angileri, formerly of Norridge. The show will air from 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM Mondays through Fridays. Angileri will also do local newsbreaks from 7:00 AM to 10 AM, during Channel 12's broadcasts of NBC's "The Today Show" with Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira.

Angileri, 22, is moving to Rhinelander, Wisconsin.

"I applied in late July and interviewed in Rhinelander on August 16th," Angileri said. "They called on August 18, and I accepted immediately."

"Newswatch 12 Today" is part of Channel 12's evolving news program. As Angileri takes the reins, the show will go from a one-hour program to a two-hour show. He'll be working on a new set, with technical upgrades the station is in the process of acquiring.

"I'm impressed and excited with Rhinelander," he said. "It's really a very beautiful spot."

Channel 12 serves 200,000 homes in the Wausau/Rhinelander area. In 2005, Neilsen Company rankings listed the area as the country's 133rd largest market.

Angileri earned his bachelor's degree in journalism -- with an emphasis on broadcasting -- in June from the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater. He gave the valedictory address, as he did when he graduated in 2002 from Ridgewood High School, in Norridge, and when he graduated in 1998 from Leigh Elementary School, in Norridge.

Angileri is the son of Steven and Janis Angileri of Norridge.

Jeff got his start in broadcast journalism on WRHS Television, where he anchored the newscast The Ridgewood Reporters as well as the talk show The Scoop.

Article written by Wynn Koebel Foster, Staff Writer for the Pioneer Press Norridge and Harwood Heights News and published in the September 7, 2006 issue and online at http://www.pioneerlocal.com/cgi-bin/ppo-story/localnews/current/no/09-07-06-1021333.html. Used with permission.

Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on September 07, 2006
WRHS Alumnus Jeff Angileri offers tips to graduates
When choosing a guest speaker for the May 27, 2008 graduation ceremony for the Class of 2008, administrators at Ridgewood High School opted for experience. Jeff Angileri has plenty of that.

 
WRHS Television 19 alumni Jeff Angileri, from his WJFW NBC 12 Rhinelander, Wisconsin headshot. 
(Photo Courtesy WJFW Rhinelander/NBC 12) WRHS Television 19 alumni Jeff Angileri, from his WJFW NBC 12 Rhinelander, Wisconsin headshot.
(Photo Courtesy WJFW Rhinelander/NBC 12)

In 1998, he gave the valedictory address at Leigh Elementary School. In 2002, he was the valedictory speaker at Ridgewood's graduation. In 2006, as a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater, he gave the commencement address. He returned to Leigh as guest graduation speaker in May 2006. His May 27, 2008 appearance at Ridgewood's commencement marked his fifth speech to a graduating class.

"It's truly an honor to stand upon this stage with my sister Brittney and her friends and classmates who I've gotten to know over the years," he said.

Angileri admitted he'd been surprised by the invitation to speak.

"The last time I looked in the mirror, I didn't see any grey hairs or wrinkles, which seem to be prerequisites for alumni speakers," he said.

He advised the Class of 2008 not to fear failure.

"Failure teaches. Don't be afraid of it," he said. "As comedian Woody Allen said, 'If you're not failing every now and again, it's a sign you're not doing anything very innovative."

Then, he warned them that the time for stupidity is over.

"I've been in the working world for a mere 20 months, and I've already seen four careers ruined by stupid acts," he explained. "Think about it. Everything nowadays is too well documented. Something happens and five minutes later someone has posted it on YouTube or MySpace or Facebook. Schools and employers are getting smart -- all they have to do is Google your name and your entire life history is available."

Angileri, who earned his bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism, is currently anchor, producer and reporter at WJFW-TV Channel 12, an NBC affiliate in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. On June 9, he'll begin his new job as general assignment reporter at WMSN-TV Fox Channel 47 and WKOW-TV ABC Channel 27 in Madison, Wisconsin. He is the son of Steve and Janis Angileri, of Norridge.

Article written by Wynn Koebel Foster in the Thursday, June 5, 2008 issue of the Pioneer Press Norridge and Harwood Heights News and online at http://www.pioneerlocal.com/norridge/news/985185,no-ridgespeak-060508-s1.article. Used with permission.

Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on June 11, 2008
Jeff Angeleri - Part 1 of 5th Annual Alumni Hall of Fame
Last Updated by Kevin Szaflik on November 19, 2009
[    Print Articles on this Page ]

Ridgewood High School
7500 W. Montrose Ave. · Norridge, IL 60706
(708) 456-4242
Ridgewood grad hits airwaves in Wisconsin
Jeff got his start in broadcast journalism on WRHS Television, where he anchored the newscast The Ridgewood Reporters as well as the talk show The Scoop.
Read the story in the September 7th issue of the Pioneer Press Norridge and Harwood Heights News.
read more>>
go there>>
 
Copyright © 2010 - Ridgewood High School District 234. All Rights Reserved (Contact Us)