Thursday, September 29, 2016

CBS Corp. Announces $1.46 Billion Debt Financing.  This has been revealed in the radio trades and in financial news sources but now CBS makes it official with a press statement.  The company says that “in connection with its previously announced intention to separate its radio business, CBS Radio Inc. plans to offer $460 million of senior unsecured notes and to enter into a $1 billion senior secured term loan, in each case, subject to market and other conditions.  CBS expects that substantially all of the net proceeds from both the notes offering and the term loan will be distributed to CBS.  The remaining net proceeds not used for such distribution will be used by CBS Radio for general corporate purposes and ongoing cash needs.”  This is not a sale to the public.  As CBS reminds us, “The notes will be offered and sold in a private placement to qualified institutional buyers in the United States pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933…the notes to be offered have not been registered under the Securities Act, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act.”

SiriusXM Launches Innovative Channel Dedicated to Talk About Music.  The satcaster is dubbing it “VOLUME” and calls it “the first-ever 24/7 talk radio channel dedicated to music — its latest news, raging controversies, and non-stop debates – as the focus of the conversation.”  The channel will consist of daily shows, artist interviews, weekly specials, a music trivia game show, album reviews, and an in-depth docuseries and more dealing with all genres of popular music.  SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein says, “Sirius XM has millions of loyal music fans nationwide and now we are giving those fans a place where they can talk about the music they love.  VOLUME will have a deep, all-star roster of talent bringing that conversation only to SiriusXM.  It’s yet another example of SiriusXM delivering unique and exciting content to our subscribers.  Roger Coletti is the executive producer of this channel and his extensive music expertise makes him the ideal person for this ground-breaking channel.”  Some of the shows that will appear on and after the October 17 launch include: live, morning talk show “Feedback” with Nik Carter and veteran magazine editor, entertainment journalist and author Lori Majewski; “Trunk Nation” with DJ Eddie Trunk, who’ll host Metallica’s Lars Ulrich on the debut show; “Debatable” with Mark Goodman and former Spin and Vibe editor and author Alan Light; “Written in My Soul with Bill Flanagan” featuring a series of interviews with legendary musicians, including Robert Plant and Paul Simon; “Rolling Stone Music Now” hosted by Rolling Stone executive editor Nathan Brackett; “Rap Radar Report” hosted by journalist and TV producer Elliott Wilson; “Melissa’s Basement” with Melissa Etheridge (guests booked include David Crosby, Pat Benatar, and Steve Cropper); “Never Meet Your Heroes” with Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian; “True Stories with Kurt Loder”; “The Album Review Show” featuring YouTube star Anthony Fantano; music trivia game “70s 80s 90s Now” with host Jim Shearer; and “The Last of The …” with Ryan Duffy, a journalist, producer and entrepreneur, who will examine the changing landscape in the world of music and tech.

Nielsen Audio Releases Third Round of September 2016 PPM Data.  The third of four rounds of September 2016 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Antonio, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Kansas City, Orlando, and Columbus.  The September 2016 survey period covered August 11 through September 7.  You can find the complete 6+ ratings numbers from subscribing stations here.  Additionally, TALKERS/RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Twelve Takeaways” from this group on the main page of our sister publication here.

Hillsdale College and TALKERS Teaming Up to Present Sizzling Presidential Election Talk Radio Debate in DC. TALKERS magazine and Hillsdale College are joining forces to present a dynamic talk radio debate about the Presidential Election of 2016. Moderated by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, the diverse panel of participants will include (in alphabetical order): Thom Hartmann, syndicated host, WYD Media; Hugh Hewitt, syndicated host, Salem Radio Network; Joyce Kaufman, afternoon host, WFTL, Ft. Lauderdale/Miami; Joe Madison, morning host, SiriusXM “Urban View” channel; Larry O’ Connor, morning co-host, WMAL, Washington, DC; and Chris Stigall, morning host WPHT, Philadelphia. The event will take place on Friday, October 14 at Hillsdale’s Allan P. Kirby, Jr. Center for Constitutional Studies and Citizenship, 227 Massachusetts Avenue, NE, Washington, DC. It will start at 11:00 am and run for about 90 minutes followed by a “meet and greet,” one-hour lunch reception. The event will be open to members of the media and press but seating will be limited and pre-registration is required. To register, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. Announcing the event, Michael Harrison states, “What a wonderful lineup! This debate will include all the key perspectives represented on American news/talk radio. TALKERS is delighted to be back in Washington, DC creating political talk happenings of this nature. We are looking forward to this being just the first of a long series of forums that we are planning to present in conjunction with the enlightened educators at Hillsdale College.” Hillsdale College, based in Hillsdale, Michigan and established in 1844, is widely recognized as one of the finest, private liberal arts colleges in America.

The Presidential Race/Post-Debate Analysis, El Cajon Police Kill Black Man, South Carolina Teen Shooter Incident, 9/11 Bill Override, Syria Civil War/U.S.-Russia Relations, Shimon Peres Dies, MLB Playoff Push Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/28).  The activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton and the analysis of Monday night’s first debate; police in El Cajon, California kill a black man they believed was wielding a gun; a teen shooter in South Carolina kills his father and injures three at a local school; congress overrides President Obama’s veto of a 9/11 bill that will allow victims of the terror attacks to sue Saudi Arabia; the ongoing civil conflict in Syria and the tensions between the U.S. and Assad-backing Russia; former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres dies; and the Major League Baseball playoff push were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Odds & Sods. KIRO, Seattle afternoon talk hosts “Ron & Don” are partnering with the Seattle Police Department (with the support of the Seattle Police Foundation and Sleep Train) for the “Beds for Kids Project.”  This year, the goal is to provide a minimum of 150 mattresses, bedframes, sheet sets, comforters and pillows to local children in need, with 100% of the mattresses donated by The Dream Bed, a bed-in-a-box brand with a greater purpose of improving sleeping conditions around the world with its buy one-give one model.  The Beds for Kids Project was created in 2014 by Seattle police officers Jeremy Wade and Ryan Gallagher after the two responded to a 911 call and discovered two young girls had been sleeping on the floor of their home.  They later returned to that same home with brand new beds, both purchased from their own pockets…..Los Angeles Dodgers play-by-play legend Vin Scully will end a 67-year career calling the team’s games on Sunday (10/2).  Fans interested in celebrating Scully’s monumental career and wish to witness the end of an era can hear the broadcast via TuneIn’s MLB Radio…..AdLarge Media‘s “So Money with Farnoosh Torabi” wins the prestigious 2016 Plutus Award for the Best Personal Finance Podcast.

Left to Right.  In a joint appearance in the Embry-Riddle Speaker Series in Daytona Beach, Florida on Wednesday (9/28), 93.5/1150 WNDB afternoon drive host Marc Bernier (left) interviews CNN’s Paul Begala (center), and Fox News Channel’s Tucker Carlson (right), before a live audience.  The trio analyzed the first presidential debate and looked ahead to the general election.

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Analysis: The Local Media Company of the Future.  Media consultant Holland Cooke reported from last week’s NAB/RAB Radio Show in Nashville.  He says each year there is one session that’s worth the price of admission and this year’s was Gordon Borrell’s presentation: “Reach Beyond Radio: The Local Media Company of the Future.”  The upshot of this presentation is that if your radio station wants to exist in the future, learn to create digital avenues of marketing for your prospective clients.  Citing data – “year-over-year, ‘Local Non-Digital’ is up 1.9%; ‘Local Digital’ is up 37.1%” – Cooke notes that (adding insult to injury) when advertisers increase their digital marketing budget, that money is taken away from advertising on traditional platforms.  And that means radio.  Read Cooke’s entire report here.

Nielsen Audio Releases Second Round of September 2016 PPM Data.  The second of four rounds of September 2016 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, Boston, Detroit, Miami, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.  The September 2016 survey period covered August 11 through September 7.  You can find the complete 6+ ratings numbers from subscribing stations here.  Additionally, TALKERS/RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Twelve Takeaways” from this group on the main page of our sister publication here.

New Installment of ‘London Calling with Graham Mack’ Posted to TalkersRadio.  A brand new installment of the international radio talk show “London Calling with Graham Mack” has been posted today (9/28) to TalkersRadio – the experimental radio platform provided by TALKERS magazine for producers of exciting new programming concepts.  This new episode emanating from Great Britain features the godfather of British blues, John Mayall.  There are also guest appearances by American radio legend Jonathon Brandmeier and Geri Halliwell (Ginger Spice). Topics covered include the Royal visit to Canada and the British version of “Dancing With The Stars.”  To listen to the program please click here.

WPGG, Atlantic City’s Harry Hurley Interviews Miss America.  Atlantic City talk radio star Harry Hurley (left) is pictured here with the newly crowned Miss America – Savvy Shields (right).  Hurley tells TALKERS magazine, “Our new Miss America exudes confidence, poise, elegance and a wonderful personality.  She is going to be a great Miss America.”  The contest took place in Atlantic City on September 11.

The Presidential Race/Monday’s Debate, California Cops Shoot Black Man/Charlotte Protests Aftermath, Wells Fargo Scandal Fallout, Syrian Civil War, Shimon Peres Dies, National Anthem Protests, MLB Playoff Push and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/27). The activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton and the discussion about Monday evening’s first presidential debate; police in El Cajon, California kill a black man and the aftermath of the protests in Charlotte; the CEO and another Wells Fargo executive take compensation penalties in the wake of the phony accounts scandal; the battle for Aleppo in Syria’s civil war; former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres dies; the ongoing controversy over National Anthem protests; the Major League Baseball playoff push and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Lars Larson Remembers Former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres.  In reflecting upon the death of former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres, KXL, Portland (and nationally syndicated) personality Lars Larson recalls meeting the statesman on a TALKERS-sponsored America’s Voices in Israel fact-finding mission to the Middle East.  He shares the following remembrance with TALKERS readers:  “Nine years ago, Michael Harrison and a group of American talkers traveled to Israel for a week of broadcasts and fantastic interviews.  There were half a dozen terrorist attacks daily (per our IDF soldier escort, a young man who grew up in the U.S. and made aliyah (immigrated) and was doing his mandatory service.  On our last night in the country, our group had just sat down to dinner in a nice restaurant in Tel Aviv near the beach when a familiar figure sat down with his group one table away from us.  I figured, nothing ventured, nothing gained so I asked our waiter what kind of wine he liked and sent a bottle to his table with the message it was from Americans who had enjoyed a great week in his country. Best bottle of wine I never drank.  Ten minutes later, the man the Washington Post describes as one ‘who held nearly every high office in his country and whose influence spanned 10 US presidencies,’ walked over to talk to us for a few minutes.  He was very gracious and it was a pleasure to have met him (although you can see the security man over Peres’ shoulder trying to decide whether some Krav Maga was in order).  May he rest in peace.”

Industry Memorial Event Planned for Dr. Joy Browne in NYC.  A memorial event titled “A Celebration of Joy” is planned as a tribute to the late Dr. Joy Browne, who unexpectedly died on Saturday, August 27.  The event will take place on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 between 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm at the Helen Mills Theater, 139 W. 26^th Street in Manhattan.  Although admission is free, seating will be limited and open only to members of the radio, theater and media industries as well as friends and family of the late talk radio star and advance registration is required.  To register, please call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413 or email event coordinator Michael Harrison at michael@talkers.com.  The event will consist of a series of industry speakers eulogizing Dr. Browne and sharing stories about her life and significant impact on popular culture.

Broadcasters Foundation of America Donates $85,000 to Louisiana Flood Victims.  The recent floods that ravaged parts of Louisiana affected numerous broadcasters who work in the area.  The Broadcasters Foundation of America – a non-profit that works to provide assistance to broadcasters in need – donated checks for $1,000 to some 85 people whose lives were negatively impacted by the storm damage.  Pictured here are (from l-r) Emily Barratt of the BFoA, Louisiana Broadcasters Association CEO and president Polly Prince, and BFoA president Jim Thompson.  To find out more about the Broadcasters Foundation of America and to donate, click here.

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Michael Harrison Discusses Recently Revealed Yahoo! Hack with Cybercrime Expert Steve Weisman.  The recent massive Yahoo! hack of a half-billion internet users is scrutinized in an illuminating conversation between Michael Harrison and cybercrime expert Steve Weisman on this week’s installment of the award-winning PodcastOne series, “Up Close and Far Out.”  Weisman is a prominent attorney, professor at Bentley University, prolific author, TALKERS legal editor, and publisher of the crime-fighting website, www.Scamicide.com.  In addition to the Yahoo! breach, the two talk about a wider range of online dangers facing individuals and business and their implications on freedom of speech as well as general privacy.  To listen to this fascinating podcast in its entirety, please click here.

Michael Savage Pre-Empted on WABC for Election Coverage; Technical Glitch Affects Network.  Syndicated talk host Michael Savage was livid for claiming not to have been informed by WABC his show would be pre-empted for local, pre-debate coverage there.  But it had nothing to do with his commentary nor did the show’s failure across the Westwood One radio network – that’s the result of a technical problem beyond Westwood One’s control.  The matter was reported by Breitbart News and conservative news outlets picked it up and ran with a conspiracy-oriented explanation.  TALKERS magazine reported that earlier today.  Savage’s program is airing today as usual.

Nielsen Audio Releases First Round of September 2016 PPM Data.  The first of four rounds of September 2016 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).  The September 2016 survey period covered August 11 through September 7.  You can find the complete 6+ ratings numbers from subscribing stations here.  Additionally, TALKERS/RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Twelve Takeaways” from this group on the main page of our sister publication here.

Dibley Partnered with Fortenbaugh and Neal for Mornings on KGMZ, San Francisco. Former KGMZ, San Francisco “97.5 The GAME” personality Dan Dibley is returning to the Entercom sports outlet to work as a trio with Joe Fortenbaugh and NFL veteran Lorenzo Neal hosting the morning drive show.  The Bay Area sports personality was part of the station’s first morning show when the sports format launched back in 2011 and he also co-hosted afternoons with both Greg Papa and Damon Bruce.  He’s served as a sports anchor on crosstown all-news KCBS and worked for Comcast SportsNet Bay Area.

Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo Re-Ups with SiriusXM.  Sports talk personality Chris “Mad Dog” Russo is staying with SiriusXM for at least another three years as he and the satcaster agree to a new contract.  Russo’s own program, “Mad Dog Unleashed,” will continue to be heard in the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm slot on the Mad Dog Sports Radio channel along with the slate of other sports talk hosts – including lead-in Stephen A. Smith.  Russo comments on remaining with SiriusXM.  “I am proud of what Mad Dog Sports Radio has become and continue to believe this is the best place in all of radio.  After 30 years of broadcasting, my excitement to come to work every day and talk sports with all of America is as strong as ever due to the freedom SiriusXM provides.  So stay tuned, America.  There’s plenty of bark left in the Doggie!”

The Presidential Race/Monday Night’s Debate, Charlotte Protests, Wells Fargo Scandal, Houston Shooter Injures Nine, U.S. Homicide Rate Soars, Death of Marlins Pitcher Jose Fernandez, Growing National Anthem Protests, MLB Playoff Push and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/26). The activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton and the build-up to last night’s debate; the continuing protests in Charlotte over the shooting death of Keith Scott by police; the fake account scandal plaguing Wells Fargo and the suit being filed by fired former employees for not meeting unrealistic sales goals; a shooter in Houston injures nine before being killed by police; FBI statistics indicating the U.S. homicide rate rose 10% in the last year; Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez dies in a boating accident; the National Anthem protests spread to the college football ranks; the playoff push in Major League Baseball; and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Covering the Debate on CBS.  Pictured above at Hofstra University at last night’s presidential debate are (from l-r): WCBS, New York reporter Peter Haskell, CBS chief White House correspondent Major Garrett, and WCBS, New York reporter Steve Scott.

Monday, September 26, 2016

Kim Guthrie Named to Replace Retiring Bill Hoffman as President of Cox Media Group.  After 38 years with Cox, Bill Hoffman is retiring from his Cox Media Group president post at the end of the year.  Taking over in January will be current executive vice president of national ad platforms and president of Cox Reps, Kim Guthrie.  Cox Enterprises president and CEO John Dyer says, “Kim has been with Cox for nearly 20 years and is an inspirational leader who has helped our media properties transform.  She played a key role in the successful creation of Cox Media Group in 2008 and has been recognized as one of the media industry’s most influential leaders.  She is a natural fit to ensure Cox Media Group continues to deliver innovative products and compelling news content.”

Report: CBS RADIO to Take on $1.5 Billion in Debt.  This report from Reuters, says that sources are telling it that CBS RADIO is preparing to take on as much as $1.5 billion in debt ahead of its initial public offering that’s expected to take place but still has no firm time frame.  According the report, the bulk of the proceeds would be paid back to parent CBS Corp. with the rest to be used by CBS RADIO for “general corporate purposes.”  In its report, Reuters notes that “a radio company IPO may be a tough sale as new digital competitors have emerged and depressed advertising sales for the medium for years.”  Read the Reuters story here.

Lew Dickey Pens Book on Changing Media Landscape.  The book is published by Tourbillion International – a subsidiary of the Dickey family-owned Modern Luxury Media – and is titled, The New Modern Media – Remaking Media for a Mobile Culture.  We now know what Lew Dickey has been doing since he was ousted from the Cumulus CEO role last year.  The book is described as “an indispensable guide to the profound and disruptive changes rocking the media industry.  It examines the implications of a new, mobile culture and challenges the widely held belief that most media companies’ true source of profits is their content.  It makes the case for the importance of distribution as a key driver of firm value in the legacy media business model, be it a newspaper, magazine, record label, television network, local broadcast television or radio station.”  In the book Dickey makes the case for why traditional “radio broadcasters will be unlikely to benefit from subscription revenue for their core service, leaving them highly exposed to the ad markets.”  iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman is quoted reviewing the book, “I’ve spent my entire professional life in the media business, and today technology is enabling media to evolve at an ever-faster pace to meet consumers’ changing needs. Lew’s book is a timely resource for anyone working or investing in the media industry – shedding an important light on some of the critical challenges and opportunities inherent in today’s vibrant and complex media landscape.”  Pittman’s iHeartRadio just announced a two-tier subscription service last week – clearly another step in the grand plan to transform iHeartMedia from a legacy radio company to a competitor in the digital entertainment industry.  But getting back to Lew’s book, it’s a safe bet this will be the talk of the radio business this week.

Mike Gallagher Broadcasts from Hofstra University.  In advance of tonight’s first presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, Salem Radio Networks syndicated personality Mike Gallagher broadcast his program from Hofstra University on Long Island, the site of tonight’s debate.  Gallagher’s guests included pollster Pat Caddell, Republican National Committee communications director Sean Spicer, Trump campaign co-chair Sam Clovis, and, via telephone, vice presidential candidate Mike Pence.  Gallagher says, “I’ve bird-dogged these candidates through the primaries and caucuses and both national conventions.  So, it is a thrill to bring my audience into the final hours of preparation for this historic debate which is expected to draw 100 million or more via radio and TV.”

iHeartMedia Launches New Tucson Talk Station.  This will be a sister talk station to iHeartMedia’s existing news/talk KNST and consists primarily of syndicated fare.  KTZR flipped from Spanish music to talk this morning (9/26) as “The Talk of Tucson.”  The programming lineup is: Premiere’s Glenn Beck in morning drive, followed by USA Radio’s “Trending Today USA with Rusty Humphries,” Westwood One’s “The Savage Nation,” KTRH, Houston-based, syndicated personality Michael Berry, local personality Rob Hunter, Premiere’s “AMERICA Now with Meghan McCain,” “Ground Zero,” “AMERICA Now Rewind,” and GCN’s Alex Jones.

Alan Henry Memoir Published.  One of the progenitors of modern day talk radio and the all-news formats has written his memoir.  Alan Henry’s new book is titled, A Man And His Medium: An Indelible Signature on Radio Television Cable.  It was a young Alan Henry – charged with turning around Metromedia’s poorly rated KLAC, Los Angeles – who hired raconteur Joe Pyne to host the evening program.  Pyne had just been fired by crosstown KABC.  Henry and programmer Jim Lightfoot gave Pyne control over his show content and the program took off, eventually being syndicated to more than 250 radio stations.  Henry’s influence continued when, after leaving KLAC, he joined Westinghouse in New York and proposed a new all-news format for WINS.  He was named sales manager of the station and, although it took a while to bring advertisers around, history reveals its eventual success.

The Presidential Race/First Debate, Police Shootings of Blacks, Syrian Civil War/U.S.-Russian Military Tensions, George Bush-Michelle Obama Photo, Growing National Anthem Protests, MLB Playoff Push and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend.  The activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton and the buildup to this evening’s debate; the aftermath of the recent Tulsa and Charlotte shooting deaths of black men by police; the Syrian civil war and Russia’s role in the bombing of Aleppo and air convoys; Saturday’s dedication of the African American History Museum in Washington and chatter about the widely published photo of Michelle Obama hugging George W. Bush; National Anthem protests spread to the college football ranks; the playoff push in Major League Baseball, and Sunday’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Odds & Sods.  There are changes in the air talent lineup at ESPN-owned/Cumulus operated KESN-FM, Dallas.  Matt Mosley leaves the station and his afternoon drive partner Tim Cowlishaw.  Midday personality Mark Friedman also exits the station where he co-hosted with Steve Dennis.  There are rumors in the market that Dennis will join Cowlishaw in afternoons and Jean-Jacques Taylor and Will Chambers will take over the midday show…..Radiohio-owned sports talker WBNS, Columbus “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” extends its relationship with the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets for another three seasons.  WBNS’ partner – Southeastern Ohio Broadcasting System’s alternative WWCD “CD102.5” – will serve as the secondary signals for the team’s games…..GatesAir announces three important wins in Vietnam that signify the over-the-air TV and radio transformation taking shape across the Asia-Pacific region.  Vietnam Television recently placed two orders for transmitter network expansions.   On the radio side, Vietnam is investing in existing FM infrastructure with improvement and expansion projects.  Voice of Vietnam, the national radio broadcaster, recently ordered five Flexiva air-cooled solid-state transmitters — two 5kW and three 10kW models — for VOV4, which serves as the broadcaster’s Ethnic Languages Channel.

The Yappy Tour Rolls On.  Prolific radio talk show producer turned author Bernadette Duncan recently brought her “Yappy Tour” to the television viewers of Western Massachusetts by appearing as a guest on the WGGB-TV (ABC-40) “Western Mass News” to discuss her buzz-worthy book, Yappy Days; Behind the Scenes with Newsers, Schmoozers, Boozers and Losers (AuthorHouse/Talkers Books, 2016).  The book recounts Duncan’s 26-year career as a producer of radio talk shows working with such big-name talents as Larry King, Sally Jessy Raphael, Lou Dobbs, Tom Snyder, Gil Gross, Charles Osgood and many more during modern talk radio’s pre- and post-9/11 “golden era.”  Plus, she tells stories about behind-the-scenes encounters with hundreds of guests from the worlds of show business, politics, media, business and literature. Above, Duncan (left) is pictured with newsman/show host Chris Pisano (right) on Channel 40’s “Western Mass News” midday talk show.  Duncan’s national “Yappy Tour” will roll on through the remainder of the year.  She has already appeared on more than 25 local and syndicated programs.  Hosts and shows interested in booking Bernadette Duncan can do so by calling Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.

Friday, September 23, 2016

Marconi Award Winners Announced. More than 20 Marconi Awards were presented last night (Thursday, 9/22) in Nashville. TALKERS congratulates all the winners and nominees.

“Legendary Station of the Year”: CBS Radio New York all-news WINS

“Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year”: Premiere Networks‘ Deliah

“Major Market Personality of the Year”: Fred Toucher & Rich Shertenlieb (“Toucher & Rich”) of CBS Radio Boston’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub”

“Large Market Personality of the Year”: Brooke Fox & Jubal Flagg (“Brooke & Jubal”) of Hubbard Broadcasting Seattle rhythmic CHR KQMV “MOViN 92.5”

“Medium Market Personality of the Year”: Chaz & AJ of Connoisseur Media New Haven rocker WPLR

“Small Market Personality of the Year”: Brent Carl Fleshman of Cookeville Communications’ Cookeville, Tennessee talker WHUB-AM “1400 The Hub” & W299BY “107.7 FM”

“Major Market Station of the Year”: Jerry Lee-owned adult contemporary WBEB “101.1 More FM,” Philadelphia

“Large Market Station of the Year”: Hearst talker WBAL, Baltimore

“Medium Market Station of the Year”: Cox Media Group Dayton country WHKO “K-99.1”

“Small Market Station of the Year”: Ham Broadcasting Cadiz, Kentucky country outlet WKDZ

“Adult Contemporary Station of the Year”: Lewanee Broadcasting‘s WLEN, Adrian, Michigan

“CHR Station of the Year”: Zimmer’s KTXY “Y-107,” Columbia, Missouri

“Classic Hits Station of the Year”: CBS Radio Los Angeles’ KRTH “K-Earth 101”

“Country Station of the Year”: Cox Media Group Houston’s KKBQ “The New 93-Q”

“News-Talk Station of the Year”: Hubbard’s WTOP, Washington, D.C.

“Noncommercial Station of the Year”: Seton Hall University rock WSOU, South Orange, New Jersey

“Religious Station of the Year”: Salem Media Group Dallas’ KLTY

“Rock Station of the Year”: Zimmer’s KCMQ, Columbia, Missouri

“Spanish Station of the Year”: CBS Radio Houston’s KLOL “Mega 101”

“Sports Station of the Year”: CBS Radio Detroit’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket”

“Urban Station of the Year”: Howard University-owned WHUR, Washington, D.C.

NAB/RAB Radio Show: Final Day Wrap-Up.  Radio consultant Holland Cooke is in Nashville covering the NAB/RAB Radio Show for TALKERS and he presents a compact report of some of day two’s key takeaways.  Among them are sound bites from radio’s captains of industry and key players from the “Radio Show Advertiser Breakfast.”  Also included are Cooke’s notes from a variety of digital media- and marketing-oriented sessions, including those run by Dave Ramsey, Gordon Borrell and more.  See it all here.

“Heard” In Nashville. While noted media consultant Holland Cooke is providing our exclusive coverage of panels and presentations taking place at this week’s NAB/RAB Radio Show in Nashville, special features correspondent Jeff McKay is talking to attendees about what is being said at the events. Click here to see what people are telling him.

Nelson Named VP/MM For Cumulus Huntsville. Former vice president/general manager/cluster director of sales for Cox Radio Birmingham, Ray Nelson, is appointed vice president and market manager for Cumulus Media‘s cluster in Huntsville (Alabama). Cumulus Media senior vice president Jeff Brown comments, “Ray’s track record of success speaks for itself. Adding him to our team of market managers was an absolute no-brainer. I am excited for Ray and for our talented team in Huntsville.” Nelson notes, “I am thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to lead the Cumulus Huntsville cluster; Huntsville is a fabulous growth market. I appreciate the confidence that Jeff Brown and the entire Cumulus management team have demonstrated in selecting me to champion Cumulus Huntsville.” Nelson’s previous background includes vice president and market manager for Clear Channel (now iHeartMedia) Ann Arbor (Michigan) and general manager/general sales manager/national sales manager for Fritz Broadcasting Saginaw (also Michigan). Among persons 12+ in Nielsen Audio’s spring 2016 book for Huntsville, Cumulus Media-owned CHR WZYP is #2 (7.7); WHRP “Today’s Best Variety of R&B” ranks #3 (4.8); AM-FM talk combo WVNN finishes #5 (3.1); country WWFF “Nash Icon 93.3” is #8 (1.3); and AM-FM sports duo WUMP “The Ump” ranks #10 (.6). Leading the field is iHeartMedia country outlet WDRM (11.1, 12+).

Carr, “Joe Pags” Picked Up For Simulcasts by Newsmax TV. Boca Raton, Florida-based conservative Newsmax TV adds weekday afternoon simulcasts of Howie Carr and Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo. According to Newsmax TV chief executive officer Christopher Ruddy, “The addition of both these shows not only give us important new voices to our diverse lineup of thoughtful, informative broadcasters, they help us expand our broadcasting footprint into the late afternoon hours. Our audience tells us they are hungry for useful, intelligent, and independent programming. Howie and Joe provide just that.” Carr comments, “I have always had the greatest respect for the entire Newsmax team. I now look forward to reaching a whole new TV audience every afternoon with my show. I couldn’t be more pleased to be joining Newsmax TV.” Pagliarulo remarks, “I am thrilled to be a part of the Newsmax TV team. Having my show in a prime slot on this amazing, growing network is an honor I cherish as it adds a new dimension to the show for my listeners and now viewers.” National Radio Hall of Famer – and author of “The Brothers Bulger” and “Hitman” – Carr originates his four-hour conservative talk show from Entercom-owned WRKO starting at 3:00 pm; “Joe Pags” begins his three-hour syndicated program at 5:00 pm from iHeartMedia‘s WOAI, San Antonio. Carr – syndicated on the Howie Carr Radio Network – is #14 on the TALKERS 2016 “Heavy Hundred” and Pagliarulo – whose national show is distributed by Compass Media Networks – is #23.

SB Nation Radio Enhances Its Football Programming. Seventeen-year NFL player Keenan McCardell signs-on with SB Nation Radio as an NFL analyst. The former receiver joins the network on “Prime Cut” with Sean Salisbury and Steve Bunin each Wednesday at 5:00 pm (ET). Gow Media chief executive officer David Gow comments, “Keenan is as impressive in the broadcast booth as he was on the playing field. He is an exceptional talent who can break down the nuances and subtleties of the game without alienating any of the audience. Whether you played football or are just a casual observer, you’ll love his insights.” Meanwhile, former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf will host a two-hour (8:00 am – 10:00 am, ET) weekly show (Saturdays) on SB Nation Radio. The onetime #2 draft pick states, “I am so honored and grateful for the opportunity that Mr. Gow and SB Nation has afforded me.” In addition, SB Nation Radio will premiere “The Kayce Smith Show,” a two-hour (8:00 pm – 10:00 pm) college football program that will air Monday nights. Smith opines, “One thing missing from the sports industry is the opportunity for women to take strong stances on-air and give their opinions without hesitation. I am so excited to be a part of the SB Nation Radio family and to be able to share this crazy journey with our loyal listeners across the country.” SB Nation Radio chief operating officer and program director Craig Larson declares, “I have never been more excited about the state of our radio network. From top to bottom, there is no doubt in my mind that we have the strongest lineup of personalities in sports radio. The addition of Keenan, Kayce, and Ryan reinforces the idea that SB Nation Radio is truly the next generation of sports talk.” Gow Media has been operating as Yahoo Sports Radio since 2011 and it was rebranded as SB Nation Radio last month (8/1).

WMFS to Add Martin & Smith to Mid-Days. Starting next month, John Martin and Jason Smith will be inserted into the weekday lineup (11:00 am – 2:00 pm) at Entercom Memphis sports combo WMFS-AM “ESPN 680″ & WMFS “92.9 FM.” Entercom vice president and market manager Dan Barron states, “We are thrilled to bring this show to Memphis. Jason and John are highly skilled and bring unique insight. I believe listeners will enjoy this fresh, informative, and entertaining show.” Program director Brad Carson comments, “This is a significant day in this market. We couldn’t be more excited about the reporting and entertainment perspective dynamic that John and Jason both bring.” Smith remarks, “I am so pumped to be with my guy John Martin again. I am so grateful to the folks at WMFS. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I cannot wait to get started.” With WMFS since 2013, Martin is reportedly the youngest sports host in a top 50 market. Smith spent the last six years at The Commercial Appeal as the University of Memphis’ basketball beat writer. The two worked together at The Commercial Appeal. Unchanged at 2.2, WMFS ranks #14 (Nielsen Audio PPM, August 2016, 6+); iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS “V-101” sets the pace in August 2016 with a 10.5 (6+).

Odds & Sods. As part of its coverage of the first presidential debate from Hofstra University, ABC News Radio will provide a preview program anchored by correspondent Aaron Katersky. There will be post-debate analysis until 11:00 pm (ET). Joining Katersky will be Brad Mielke, Karen Travers, and ABC News Radio political analysts Steve Roberts and Trey Hardin ….. To note the signing of a three-year broadcast extension with the NHL‘s Columbus Blue Jackets, Radiohio-owned WBNS-FM “The Fan,” Columbus director of programming & operations Jay Taylor and president/general manager Dave Van Stone are presented an official Columbus Blue Jackets personalized jersey by the CBJ’s Stinger. “The Blue Jackets have been part of our programming since day one and we’re excited to be able to continue this relationship,” states Stone.

KMJ Fundraiser Aids Fresno’s Community Food Bank. A day-long broadcast that featured Cumulus Media Fresno talk KMJ on-air talents John Broekse, Christina Musson, Ray Appleton, and Chris Daniel netted more than $154,000. For each dollar raised, however, Gar Tootelian Inc. kicked in 50 cents, thus elevating the total for the Community Food Bank to $231,000. KMJ vice president and general manager Patty Hixson comments, “I am overwhelmed by the support of our community. We can always count on the generosity of our highly-valued KMJ listeners. A special thanks to the hard work of our talented on-air team.” Money raised will provide more than 1.5 million meals for the less fortunate residents of the Central Valley. Seventeen (17) stations appear in Fresno’s spring 2016 book (Nielsen Audio) with KMJ finishing second (6.0, 12+), three-tenths behind iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KBOS “B-95” (6.3, 12+).

Presidential Race Top News/Talk Story for Week of September 19-23.  Landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM again this week is the presidential election.  At #2 on our list of the top news/talk radio stories was killing of black men by police in Tulsa and Charlotte and the riots that happened in Charlotte.  Coming in at #3 was the aftermath of the NYC/NJ/Minn. terror attacks; following at #4 was the Syrian Civil War/U.S.-Russia Tensions.  The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  View this week’s entire chart here.

Michael Harrison Chats with the ‘First Lady of New York Radio’ – Joan Hamburg. She is one of the most-honored, longest-running, and dazzlingly colorful talk radio personalities in the Big Apple – the quintessential live-and-local host. Joan Hamburg’s career in NYC goes back to the legendary WMCA in the early 1970s where she replaced Bob Grant. From there, she moved over to WOR as a featured personality on the historic “Rambling with Gambling” show. She quickly had her own daily midday show where she stayed for more than three decades covering a wide spectrum of topics that included consumer advocacy, shopping, dining, arts & entertainment and “soft” politics. Joan Hamburg was a pioneer in modern remote broadcasting and regularly performed her show from, among many locations, the storied Broadway celebrity hangout, Sardi’s. For the past few years, Hamburg, now in her eighties, has been holding court live on-air every Saturday afternoon on WABC in addition to producing special features and stories for the station… and she still does remotes from Sardi’s. The conversation between Harrison and Hamburg is a radiophile’s delight – covering remarkable history including such names as Sally Jessy Raphael, the three John Gamblings, Arlene Francis, Dorothy Kilgallen, Rick Buckley, Barry Gray, Dr. Joy Browne and many, many more. Harrison states, “It was an honor and privilege having this true ‘grand dame’ of radio on the podcast. We cover so much wonderful history including the golden era of Broadway. She harkens back to the day when talk radio offered a wide variety of lifestyle topics beyond politics and sports. I am really proud of this interview – it will always be a treasured addition to the amazing audio library of media history that I am gathering in this podcast series.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com and RadioInfo.com.