Tag: "Des Moines"
Friday, January 17, 2020
KXNO, Des Moines Cutbacks Reversed; PD and Hosts Rehired. According to a report by WHO-TV, Des Moines, after some serious blowback from listeners about the firing of six
programming staffers from sports talk KXNO as part of a company-wide downsizing, iHeartMedia Des Moines market manager Joel McCrea sought from corporate and was granted permission to bring them back to their positions. Program director Andrew Downs; “The Morning Rush” personalities Travis Justice, Heather Burnside, and Sean Roberts; and “Sports Fanatics” hosts Chris Williams and Ross Peterson will return to their jobs. The story says in addition to the re-hiring, KXNO will be simulcast on (currently alternative) KDXA-FM at 106.3 FM beginning next week.
Newsmax TV Reports Increasing Viewership. According to recently released Comscore data, Newsmax TV shot past Bloomberg Television in total household reach, household coverage area rating, and average audience for the week of December 9, 2019. It also topped C-SPAN in household coverage area rating for the same week. Comscore’s data
indicates that for the week of December 9, 2019, Newsmax TV had a total reach of 2.64 million households compared to 1.63 million for Bloomberg Television. Comscore reports Newsmax had 1.03 million weekly viewers as of August 26, 2019. By the broadcast week of December 9, 2019 Newsmax TV’s household reach had increased to 2.65 million households, reflecting both an increase in distribution of 21% and a disproportionate increase in reach. Newsmax Media CEO Christopher Ruddy states, “This is a major milestone for us. Our content is resonating with Americans across the nation who are hungry for a fresh alternative to FOX News, CNN, MSNBC, and other news channels.” Ruddy adds that the network will make major lineup changes, announcing new programs in the coming weeks and months.
NOW POSTED: New Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The vibrant one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS magazine, is now posted on the website of its flagship station, WONK-FM, Washington, DC. The new episode titled “The Weight of History in an A.D.D. World!” looks back at this past week of January 13-17, 2020 and features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Thom Hartmann, talk show host, WYD Media; Michael Riedel, talk show host, WOR, New York; Graham Mack, program director, FIX Radio, London, UK; Trevor Smith, radio presenter, Aloha Media Productions, Byron Bay, Australia; and Richard Neer, talk show host, WFAN, New York. This acclaimed news/talk radio show airs each week on WONK-FM, Washington, DC on Friday evenings between 6:00-7:00 pm. It also airs throughout the weekend on WRKO, Boston; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KFNX, Phoenix; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; KBKW, Aberdeen, WA; the Virginia Talk Radio Network and Pioneer Valley Radio in Springfield, MA as well as appearing on the iHeart Radio App. To listen to this week’s episode (and the program’s complete archives), please click here. To view the latest TALKERS magazine topic research, please click here.
Kilcoyne Exits KFNS, St. Louis. Sports media pro Martin Kilcoyne has left his on-air role with Randy Markel’s sports talk KFNS-AM, St. Louis co
-hosting the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon show with Frank Cusumano. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Dan Caesar reports that Kilcoyne, who also works as sports director at KTVI-TV, says his television duties have expanded. He adds that the time spent producing podcasts with St. Louis Cardinals television announcer Dan McLaughlin played a role in his decision. Prior to rejoining KFNS, Kilcoyne did a five-year stint with CH Holdings’ crosstown news/talk KTRS, St. Louis as a general issues host.
Allegretto to Lead Cumulus in Fort Walton Beach. Sales and management pro Ashley Allegretto rises from her regional sales manager, digital position with Cumulus Media’s Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola markets to vice president and market manager for the Fort Walton Beach
station group that includes news/talk WFTW-AM “NewsTalk 1260” and four music-formatted stations. Cumulus regional VP Pete De Simone says, “We are thrilled to promote Ashley Allegretto to lead this cluster. Her passion for this community and her understanding of how to use our brands and our digital assets to help clients grow their businesses make her an effective leader.” Allegretto adds, “Over the past 13 years I have seen firsthand the positive impact that our radio stations can have for local businesses and organizations in our community. I am eager to build on our past accomplishments and lead this group into our next round of success.”
TALKERS News Notes. Ocala, Florida morning show hosts Larry “The Giant” Whitler and Robin MacBlane are leaving their posts at
Generations Broadcasting Corporation’s news/talk WOCA-AM/W242CA after today’s program. They have been doing mornings at WOCA since 2002. They’d previously worked together hosting a children’s show on WTMC – a signal that went dark in 2004. The Ocala Star Banner reports that the two will continue to work together collaborating on 
children’s books and music…..Entercom all-news KYW, Philadelphia is inviting listeners to its “Executive Briefing” event, presented by Independence Blue Cross, Thursday, January 23 at 7:45 am. KYW says this invite-only event “offers listeners the opportunity to listen to and take part in an in-depth discussion about the biggest issues facing the Philadelphia area and the nation in 2020.” KYW Newsradio afternoon drive host Ian Bush will moderate the discussion that includes station anchors and reporters: Pat Loeb, city hall bureau chief; Mike DeNardo, education reporter; Cherri Gregg, community affairs reporter; Jim Melwert, KYW suburban bureau chief; and Kristen Johanson, crime and justice reporter. Guests will have the opportunity to ask the panel questions during the final 20 minutes of the event. Breakfast will be served courtesy of Harvest Seasonal Grill and Wine Bar prior to the start of the event. Listeners interested in attending the event can register online…..Beasley Media Group announces Chris Ornelas is named general counsel for the company, effective February 1. Ornelas was most recently with the National Association of Broadcasters as chief operating and strategy officer in which he was responsible for overseeing the operations of and providing strategic guidance to NAB’s advocacy teams in addressing the legal and regulatory issues facing broadcasters today…..Lemonada Media announces a new podcast called “Mouthpeace with Michael and Pele Bennett,” hosted and executive produced Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Michael Bennett and his wife Pele. Lemonada, whose programs are distributed and repped by Westwood One, says “the series explores personal and provocative topics ranging from love, sex, parenting, the NFL, and politics.” The first episode drops on January 31…..Entercom is being honored at the Project Voice Awards with the “Samsung Bixby Capsule of the Year” for its RADIO.COM integration. The awards honor global best-in-class achievement across the emerging voice and AI realm and took place at the organization’s annual conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee on January 15. Entercom VP of corporate business development David Rosenbloom says, “We’re honored to be recognized among industry leaders by Project Voice. This award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovating in voice and to enhancing the consumer experience. With Bixby, we were able to expand the reach of RADIO.COM to millions of listeners and engage with them whenever and wherever they are with an optimized presence.”
Cox Media Group Gets Deadline Extension to Sell Ohio Newspapers. Due to a ruling by a three-judge panel at the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, Cox Media Group must divest of its Ohio newspapers to avoid said newspapers having to reduce publication to three days per week. Even
though the company had been operating a radio station and newspaper in the southwestern Ohio region since 1935, the Court revived the rule prohibiting operating both. The FCC appealed the three-judge ruling to the entire Third Circuit Court of Appeals, but the appeal was denied. Now, CMG has until March 16 to complete a sale to a party that can publish the Dayton Daily News seven days per week. Cox Media Group CEO Kim Guthrie says, “We applaud the decision by the FCC and are grateful for the extension. News does not conveniently schedule itself three days a week and we felt a reduced print schedule would negatively and severely impact the newspapers, our employees and the communities we serve. CMG and Apollo have been pushing for this outcome because we feel that maintaining a daily publication schedule is the absolute best way to continue to produce the solid and timely journalism that our readers deserve.”
Impeachment Top News/Talk Story for Week of January 13-17. Not surprisingly, the articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump were the most talked about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the presidential race and the Democratic debate from Des Moines. Coming in at #3 was the Iran crisis and U.S. foreign policy, followed by the U.S.-China trade war and the economy at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio this week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s entire chart here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Omaha hot AC KQKQ “Sweet 98.5,” NRG Media launches an all-female morning show with current morning host Nikki Oswald and afternoon drive time personality Laura Blenkush. The company says it will be the only all-female duo morning show in Omaha. KQKQ program
director Jay Michaels says, “Taking two of our highly talented personalities, and pairing them together for an all-female morning show is the obvious move when targeting women.” Oswald was most recently partnered with Matt Tompkins, who recently moved over to NRG’s classic hits KOOO “THE NEW 101.9 The KEG” to host the morning show…..Two 
nationally syndicated programs land on Cumulus Media stations in South Carolina. First, the Premiere Networks-syndicated “The Breakfast Club” with Charlamagne Tha God, Angela Yee, and DJ Envy is the new morning show at hip hop WDAI-FM, Myrtle Beach. Programmer and air personality Mike “BigMMike” Bell says, “We are excited to bring ‘The Breakfast Club’ to The Grand Strand. As Myrtle Beach’s source for hip hop and R&B, what better way to enter a new era than with the “World’s
Most Dangerous Morning Show?” Second, the Compass Media Networks-distributed “DeDe in the Morning” show with DeDe McGuire, Lady Jade, Rudy Rush, and comedian Michael Shawn assumes the morning drive daypart at Cumulus’ hip hop WYNN, Florence. Bell, who also programs WYNN and handles afternoon drive, says, “We are excited to bring a fresh morning show to Florence. As the market leader, it was important that we went with a brand that can be trusted to deliver great entertainment our listeners will love. DeDe is a seasoned vet and I’ve been a fan of her work for years.”
Monday, December 9, 2019
Monday Memo: Start in the Middle? If you’re a radio newscaster, consultant Holland Cooke warns that “this week’s column is like a solar eclipse. Look away!” But for DJs, hosts, and commercial copy writers, he has a curious suggestion. Read it here.
More Than $500,000 Raised in WMAL Fisher House Radiothon. Commenting on Cumulus Media Washington DC’s just-concluded two-day radiothon for the Fisher House, WMAL PD/Cumulus Media vice president of news/talk, Bill Hess, remarks, “Wow, listeners once again have come through with their support for the wonderful work of the Fisher House Foundation, donating $523,866 to this year’s radiothon. I say ‘thank-you’ from the bottom of our hearts. The Fisher House is recognized as one of the premiere nonprofits working to support quality-of-life for our military and their families. Ever since its inception (30 years ago next month), it has saved military and veterans’ families an estimated $451 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation; more than 32,000 families were served in 2018. Over the past 17 years, WMAL listeners have donated more than $7 million to the Fisher House Foundation. Pictured left to right are Hess, WMAL on-air talents Larry O’Connor, Chris Plante, and Vince Coglianese, and Fisher House president Dave Coker.
Cumulus Media Transfers Howell To Little Rock. Inbound from Oklahoma City where he was an on-air talent at Cumulus Media sports talk WWLS “98.1 The Sports Animal” and executive producer of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s radio broadcasts, Toby Howell arrives as program director at co-owned Little Rock news/talk KARN-FM “News Radio 102.9,” sports talk KARN-AM “920 The Sports Animal,” and the Arkansas News Network. He will also program religious KAAY. Cumulus Media Little Rock market manager Keith Liesman remarks, “We are very happy to get a guy like Toby with his radio background and look forward to watching him grow [our brands] across the Little Rock community.” Howell notes, “I’m very lucky to be able to work with the Cumulus Media group in Little Rock. To be in the news format at a time like this with 2020 on the horizon is very exciting.” He replaces Peter Thiele who exited roughly nine months ago.
Hubbard Radio Talent Institute Coming To Northern Arizona University. Along with support from the Arizona Broadcasters
Association, the Hubbard Radio Talent Institute is set to launch next summer (July 13 – 22) at Northern Arizona University. Hubbard Radio chief executive officer Ginny Morris comments, “All of us at Hubbard are proud to partner with Dan Vallie and the Arizona Association of Broadcasters on bringing this proven program to Northern Arizona University. The program is a great asset for the industry and a wonderful and expansive experience for the students that participate.” Vallie founded the National Radio Talent System in 2013 so radio stations can recruit young talent from their own region or nationally. Arizona Broadcasters Association President/CEO Chris Kline states, “There’s nothing more important to the future of broadcasting than helping to build the next generation of media leaders. The Hubbard Radio Talent Institute is exactly what we need in Arizona to ensure that new ideas continue to flood into the radio industry from young broadcasters. We couldn’t be more excited to support this program, to meet the participants, and to build new relationships.” NAU Media Innovation Center director Brian Rackham remarks, “We are delighted to be part of this prestigious opportunity for our students. There are jobs out there waiting for our graduates and the Hubbard Talent Institute is a great pipeline to the industry. We look forward to partnering with a great radio group like Hubbard, and the experts at the National Radio Talent System.” Sessions during the ten-day talent institute include on-air, production, news, sports, social media, podcasting, promotions, videography, sales, engineering, and includes the RAB’s radio marketing professional course. Applications are being accepted from college students/young talent from all universities in the region. Final application deadline is March 6, 2020; only 25 students will be accepted.
TALKERS News Notes. After an 11-year run on WTOP-FM “Washington’s Top News,” Chris Core will retire from the Hubbard Broadcasting DC all-news operation one week from Friday (12/20) following his “Core Values” commentary. He previously spent approximately 25 years at cross-town news/talk WMAL as a newscaster and sports anchor ….. This week, former Arizona
congressman and Newsmax anchor JD Hayworth is doing his first live and local Phoenix news/talk show in approximately ten years. Guest-hosting today (Monday, 12/9) through Wednesday (12/11) for Seth Leibsohn in afternoon drive (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm) on Salem Media Group-owned KKNT “AM 960 The Patriot,” Hayworth was Mike Huckabee’s “designated guest-host” and has filled in for Michael Savage, Mark Levin, Mike Gallagher, and Laura Ingraham ….. Tomorrow’s (Tuesday, 12/10, 6:00 am – 7:00 pm) 12th annual Toy Field presented by Cumulus Media Nashville and Planet Fitness will benefit The Salvation Army’s “Forgotten Angels” program. Toys collected at Nissan Stadium will help 
fulfill the dreams of many “forgotten children” this holiday season. The Salvation Army will reach nearly 8,500 “angels” – less fortunate children and elderly. According to Salvation Army Nashville area commander Ethan Frizzell, “Thousands of toys have been donated throughout the years and we hope to see the same enthusiasm this year. We would not be able to provide for all these children, without the support of Cumulus Media and our community.” In addition to news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7 WTN” and sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone,” Cumulus Media Nashville consists of country outlets WSM-FM “Nash Icon 95.5,” and WKDF “103.3 Nash FM,” and urban AC WQQK “92-Q.” ….. According to The Des Moines Register, former Des Moines sports talk host Marty Tirrell (KBGG, KXLQ, KXNO) has pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud in federal court. Indicted this past February, Tirrell accepted a plea deal Friday (12/6) and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison when he is sentenced at a hearing April 7; nine other counts were dismissed. He was charged of scamming victims out of $1.5 million in a sports ticket reselling scheme …. The Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters is accepting entries for its annual “Excellence in Broadcasting Awards” competition, which recognizes outstanding performance among radio and television stations. All entries must be submitted electronically – the deadline is January 6 (2020). Winners will be showcased during the “Excellence in Broadcasting Awards” luncheon March 30 at The Hotel Hershey. Meanwhile, the Colorado Broadcasters Association is inviting radio and television stations in that state to compete in over 50 categories; entry deadline is (Friday) January 10 (2020). The “Awards of Excellence” celebration will take place (Friday) April 17th in downtown Denver at the Grand Hyatt Hotel.
iHM Charleston Fundraiser Brings in Over $176,000. The 12th annual iHeartMedia Charleston “Cares for Kids” radiothon raised over $176,000 to benefit Medical University of South Carolina Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. According to iHeartMedia Charleston area president Alene Grevey, “We’ve anticipated broadcasting from the brand new MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital for 12 years. Seeing this labor of love come to fruition thanks to the generosity of iHeartMedia Charleston’s listeners and advertisers is so inspiring.” This year’s two-day, fundraising “Cares for Kids” broadcast was held last Thursday (12/5) and Friday (12/6) from 6:00 am – 7:00 pm. The event featured iHeartMedia Charleston on-air talents Ric Rush, Brian Cleary, Kelly Golden, and Gary Goldman, as well as WCSC-TV personalities Justin Biegel, and Kaitlin Stansell. The radiothon featured more than 40 stories from MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital patients and their families. In addition to WSCC “94.3 The Lowcountry’s News Station,” iHeartMedia Charleston is comprised of adult contemporary WXLY-FM “Y-102.5 Better Music For A Better Workday,” and WEZL “103.5 Charleston’s #1 Station for New Country.”
PPM Analysis: Urban Contemporary. The music-intensive format in the spotlight this month is urban contemporary. Based on data from Nielsen Audio’s November 2019 PPM survey period, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian notes that approximately half the stations on his urban contemporary panel improve (49%) October 2019 – November 2019 (6+). Meanwhile, a virtually identical 51% of urban contemporary panelists show November 2018 – November 2019 growth. Five urban contemporary stations ranked second (6+) in November 2019; the typical format finish was #11.41 (6+). See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.
Beasley Media Group Holiday Soiree Features Lady Antebellum. As part of the company’s third annual “Holiday Soiree” client party last Thursday (12/5) in New York City, Beasley Media Group welcomed performances by Lady Antebellum; Joe King and Issac Slade from The Fray; and actor/musician David Duchovny. Beasley Media Group chief executive officer Caroline Beasley, president Bruce Beasley, and chief operating officer/executive vice president Brian Beasley thanked guests for their ongoing support. Shown from left to right are Big Machine Label Group senior vice president of promotion Mathew Largis; Dave Haywood (Lady Antebellum); Beasley Media Group national country brand manager/country WKLB, Boston program director David Corey; Hillary Scott (Lady Antebellum); Beasley Media Group executive vice president of programming Justin Chase; and Charles Kelley (Lady Antebellum).
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Twenty-six year WMGK “Classic Rock 102.9” midday personality Debbi Calton officially retired from the Beasley Media Group Philadelphia outlet last Friday
(12/6). Prior to joining WMGK in 1993, Calton spent 10 years at cross-town rocker WYSP ….. Per The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, morning host Courtney Landrum and evening talent Jill Devine have departed Entercom St. Louis hot AC KYKY “Y-98.” A member of the station’s morning show the past 20 years, Landrum was promoted to top billing (“Courtney & Company”) two years ago when Guy Phillips left the station after a 38-year run. Jen Myers, Kevin Berghoff, Lance Hildebrand, and Tim Convy remain at the retitled “Y-98 Morning Show.” Devine joined “Y-98” eight years ago. She previously worked in the market for CHR KSLZ “Z-107.7”; country KSD-FM “93.7 The Bull”; and hot AC WVRV “101.1 The River” ….. In celebration of their 20th year in radio syndication, “Big D & Bubba” were treated to a surprise party last 
Friday (12/6) at Silverfish Media’s Nashville studios where company president Patrick Thomas recalls that, “On December 6, 1999, The Big D & Bubba Morning Show first aired in Amarillo [Texas]. That marked the beginning of syndication for the show, which was based at WYNK, Baton Rouge. Syndicated mornings in the country format was widely known to be an impossible task.” According to Patrick, it is the country’s longest-running syndicated morning show and has more than 75 affiliates. Helping to note the occasion in person were Compass Media Network chief executive officer Peter Kosann, and fellow syndicated country talents Lorraine Crook & Charlie Chase (“Crook & Chase), Evan Paul, and Amber Atnip ….. Wrapping up last week’s (12/2 through 12/6) “Stuff-A-Bus” toy drive to benefit the Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” program, iHeartMedia Pittsburgh CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss FM” collected 70 school buses worth of new unwrapped toys. Senior vice president of programming David Edgar notes, “[This] is one of our biggest events throughout the year. The overwhelming response from ‘Kiss’ listeners and the Pittsburgh community will help many children have a great holiday this year.” ….. Through the Smiley morning show’s 23rd annual, 36-hour “Make-A-Wish Request-A-Thon,” Cumulus Media Indianapolis CHR WZPL “99.5 ZPL – Indy’s Number One Hit Music Station” raised $839,638 for central Indiana children with life-threatening illnesses. Listeners called in last Thursday (12/5) and Friday (12/6) to request their favorite songs in exchange for a Make-A-Wish Foundation donation. Throughout the broadcast, WZPL shared inspiring wish stories from local Make-A-Wish kids and their families. Cumulus Media Indianapolis vice president/market manager Chuck Fredrick comments, “What a great way to head into the holiday season helping so many kids’ wishes come true in our community.” Operations manager JR Ammons adds that, “Thanks to the generosity of listeners and sponsors, we were able to surpass last year’s record total of $736,298. As a result, Make-A-Wish will be able to grant 83 wishes for kids here in central Indiana with life-threatening illnesses.” Over the course of the last 23 years, WZPL has helped raise more than $7.5 million for Make-A-Wish ….. Rosemont, Illinois’ Allstate Arena was the site of this 
past Saturday’s (12/7) 20th annual “B-96 Pepsi Jingle Bash” presented by Entercom Chicago CHR WBBM-FM. Katy Perry headlined the event. Entercom Chicago senior vice president and market manager Jimmy de Castro comments, “The ‘B-96 Jingle Bash’ has been a must-see holiday event in Chicago for two decades and has become a highly anticipated night of pop music and a beloved holiday tradition.” ….. Concluding today (Monday, 12/9) is iHeartMedia Atlanta CHR WWPW’s fourth annual “House of Toys,” a six-day “Power 96.1” fundraising event to help collect toys for the “Toys For Tots” program. Morning drive personality PK notes, “We want to be sure every child has the best holiday they can. We are thrilled to team up with our listeners once again and help underprivileged children receive the joy of a new gift this holiday season.” WWPW’s fundraiser is presented by Delta Community Credit Union ….. Filling the midday spot at Adams Radio Group Fort Wayne, Indiana’s country WBTU “US-93.3” is Erica Gray, who most recently had the same responsibilities in Gainesville (Florida) at Gillen Broadcasting CHR WYKS “Kiss 105.3.” ….. The inaugural “Not So Silent Night” benefit concert featuring local artists will be held this Friday (12/13) at Panama City, Florida’s Salty Hobo. Proceeds from the event – sponsored by iHeartMedia Panama City’s WDIZ “96 Rock” – will benefit the Toys for Tots Program. Program director Paco notes, “We look forward to an evening filled with music and holiday giving.”
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
‘970 The Answer’ Presents Special 9/11 Show. On the anniversary of 9/11, Salem
Media Group news/talk WNYM, New York “970 The Answer” is presenting a special program today (9/11) from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on location from the kitchen table of Red Apple Group chief John Catsimatidis (soon-to-be owner of WABC, New York) with host Kevin McCullough and former New York Governor George Pataki and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. McCullough says, “The unique and intimate broadcast will take place on location around the Catsimatidis kitchen table and will bring the two leaders together in person in a way seldom seen since this fateful day.”
WHO, Des Moines Listeners Respond to Call for Flag Planting. Afternoon drive personality Simon Conway tells TALKERS magazine that WHO, Des Moines listeners planted almost 3,000 flags in a local park to commemorate those who died in the 9/11 attacks after the city decided to cancel the annual event. Conway says, “About four 
months after I arrived in Des Moines, there was a meeting. How were we going to mark the 10th anniversary of 9/11? Some people wanted to rent the big arena in town and have a solemn service. I pointed out that was a big risk. It was the first or second NFL Sunday and how terrible would it be if no one showed up. Eventually, I came up with the idea of planting a flag in the ground for every person who was murdered that day. We have done that ever since. Yesterday morning my listeners started to contact me saying that the city had cancelled this year’s [event] due to lack of flags and volunteers (total garbage by the way – they want to move on!). There was no way I was going to let that happen and so using social media and the opening of my show yesterday, I directed people to the park. All the nearly 3,000 flags were in the ground before 5:00 pm! THAT’S the power of the very best audience in talk radio!”
Entercom Wrestling with ‘Technical Issues.’ The company has been pretty tight-lipped about the technical issues that may have been caused by a cyber-attack that occurred over the weekend. Entercom’s email system has been compromised and those trying to email someone at the company receive a message saying it is dealing with technical
issues and directs them to call the local market via phone. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that the issue – again, the company won’t confirm it’s an “attack” – also has affected music scheduling, production, and billing. Radio trade site RadioInsight is calling it a ransomware attack and reports the attacker(s) is asking for $500,000. Whether it’s an actual ransomware attack or just the work of a devious hacker, the company has a lot of work to do. Entercom’s public statement on the matter is that it is working around the clock to fix the problems. An internal memo staffers received on Monday morning said they should not expect things to be back to normal for three or four days.
WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans Does Damage Control After Gay Slur Tweet. Openly gay WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans evening sports talk host Seth Dunlap was the target of a tweet containing a gay slur that appears to have emanated from within the station.
According to a piece in The Advocate, many of Dunlap’s listeners may have learned of his sexuality after he wrote a personal essay questioning New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees’ affiliation with Focus on the Family, an organization that, among other goals, promotes gay conversion therapy. Brees has recorded a video for the organization about the upcoming “Take Your Bible to School” day. Entercom removed the offensive tweet and tweeted out the following: “We are aware of a tweet that went out today from the WWL account. The content of the tweet is categorically offensive and abhorrent to the station. We are actively investigating this incident and will take swift and appropriate action once we determine how this occurred.”
Todd Schnitt and Fark.com Partner for New Podcast. On-air pro Todd Schnitt and FARK.com founder Drew Curtis are launching a new podcast called, “Fark and Schnitt,” “a humorous approach to some of the more unusual story lines in the news cycle.” It’s
being managed by Steve Lapa and Lapcom Communications and represented by Crossover Media Group. It’s being promoted as “an entertaining, irreverent look at the stories you may have missed. The ‘Fark and Schnitt’ podcast blends entertaining content with polished production to bring the audience the famous and the forgettable in an engaging format.” New episodes are posted each Tuesday. Schnitt says, “The explosive growth of podcasts cannot be ignored, and this delivery method will continue to grow exponentially. While I’ve been part of repurposing my radio shows for many years, ‘Fark and Schnitt’ is all new exclusive quality content just for the podcast universe. Soon, I’ll be Adam Carolla’s golf caddy.” FARK.com is a successful news aggregator site with more than 2,000 link submissions daily, 20 million page views per month with more than 1 million uniques.
TALKERS News Notes. Joining the meteorologist staff at EnvisionVirtualServices Weather is Tom Hauf, who will deliver custom daily weather forecasts and severe weather coverage for affiliated stations. Hauf says, “I’ve been passionate about weather forecasting since childhood, delivering my first forecast at age 10. Weather is one of a very few things in the world that affects every single person every day.” Hauf has 30 years of experience as a radio weatherman and possesses a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist certification from the American Meteorological Society. EnvisionVirtualServices Weather Reports from Envision Networks offer a complete locally derived weather solution for radio stations. The team of major market meteorologists deliver multiple daily reports and are ready to spring into action whenever inclement weather hits…..PodcastOne announces that it is teaming with Kc Wayland Productions for production, marketing and sales for the “We’re Alive” podcast series that has more than 160 million downloads to date. The new season, “We’re Alive: Goldrush,” features guest-star appearances from actors Danny Trejo and Christy Carlson Romano as well as former “Bachelorette,” Kaitlyn Bristowe. PodcastOne says “‘Goldrush’ is a multi-layered story that fully utilizes the audio drama medium, employing a multitude of audio-focused comedic gags, plot devices that force visualization, and scenes that take advantage of the soundscape.” PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz says, “Coming on the heels of our huge success with ‘22 Hours: An American Nightmare’ and the continuing strong showing of ‘Cold Case Files,’ our partnership with A&E Networks, the launch of ‘Goldrush’ not only gives us a strong, new entry into the scripted category, but also shows the strength of our content and promotional resources.”…..KPOJ-AM, Portland afternoon drive sports talk personality Travis Demers is named the new play-by-play voice of the NBA’s Portland Trailblazers. Demers has been the substitute play-by-play voice recently, filling in for Brian Wheeler who has been dealing with health issues. Wheeler recently retired, leaving the position open. Demers says, “It’s the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do, it’s an absolute dream job. I’m thrilled to be able to live out that dream in Rip City.”
Beasley Announces Esports Initiative at UNLV. Broadcaster Beasley Media Group is collaborating with the University of Nevada Las Vegas’ Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies to launch Checkpoint XP On Campus. Beasley XP is the company’s esports division that is leading this endeavor. Under this initiative, the school will serve as the primary content creation and production hub for Checkpoint XP’s college-targeted brand extension. Plans include a college-agnostic esports weekly video and podcast show, as well as extensive online content that will be featured under the Checkpoint XP On Campus section on CheckpointXP.com. The weekly video and podcast will be officially launched tomorrow (9/12) on RADIO.com, as well as Twitch, YouTube, and via a podcast on bPod Studios. It’s being hosted by Beasley XP’s Norris Howard, along with UNLV student anchors Daniel Agbuya and Jacob Brothers, with Kevin Kelly serving as the managing editor. Additionally, UNLV will work closely with Checkpoint XP to recruit student correspondents from more than 30 of the country’s top journalism and esports colleges to provide additional coverage on the growing esports scene across many of the nation’s college campuses. Beasley chief digital content officer Lori Burgess says, “The convergence of sports and entertainment has never been more real than with the esports academic curriculums, sports teams and arenas that are changing the face of campuses across the country. Checkpoint XP On Campus intends to capture this lifestyle-based competitive sport as it continues to gain popularity and become a more serious part of the university experience.” Pictured above at yesterday’s announcement are (from l-r): Dr. Kevin Stoker, director of the Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies at UNLV; Dr. Robert Ulmer, Dean of the UNLV Greenspun College of Urban Affairs; Caroline Beasley, CEO of Beasley Media Group; Norris Howard; and Leslie Fitzsimmons, director of underwriting and corporate sponsorship for UNLV’s public media outlets.
Trump Fires John Bolton, 2020 Presidential Race, NC Special Elections, U.S.-China Trade War, Immigration Policy, Antonio Brown Rape Allegation Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/10). National Security Advisor John Bolton is fired by President Trump; the Democrats and Republicans vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; Republican Dan Bishop wins a North Carolina congressional special election; the war of tariffs between the U.S. and China; the Trump administration’s immigration and asylum policies; and the rape allegations leveled against Patriots wide receiver Antonio Brown were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Cool Radio Opportunities in Phoenix. There are two positions that WestStar Multimedia Entertainment is seeking to fill. First, the Kim Komando show is looking for an on-air call screener and sidekick. They ask: “Do you have an engaging personality?
Quick-witted? Funny? And this is very important, have a passion for consumer electronics and all things digital? We are looking for a superstar talent who’s hard working and wants to be part of national radio show and global TV show!” See more about the position and to apply here. Also, WestStar is seeking an affiliate relations manager with at least two years’ experience. The company says, “Kim Komando Multimedia is rapidly expanding in many divisions, as we are one of the fastest growing broadcast media companies in America! For over 20-years, Kim Komando has led the industry in tech-lifestyle programming within the national radio category, reaching millions of people every week.” For more on this position and to apply, click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Sales and management pro Donald St. Sauveur is upped to chief operating officer for Northeast Broadcasting and its stations triple A outlets WXRV, Boston “92.5 The River” and WNCS, Montpelier “The Point.” St. Sauveur has been serving as general manager for WXRV for the past 11 years. Northeast Broadcasting CEO Ed Flanagan says, “Donald has shown an uncanny ability to integrate the sales and programming elements of the station, while simultaneously building brand and customer loyalty. We are looking forward to seeing him succeed in this new role.”…..Programming pro Leigh McNabb joins Saga Communications’ classic hits KIOA, Des Moines as
program director. She comes to Saga from her most recent gig as PD and midday personality at Entercom’s hot AC KZPT, Kansas City “99.7 The Point.” Saga Des Moines vice president and general manager Tom Nankival says, “We are thrilled to be able to bring someone with Leigh’s experience and qualifications back to her hometown. Her passion for KIOA’s heritage is unparalleled and the fact that she is already so well respected in our building made her the obvious choice to rejuvenate the station and lead our terrific team.”…..Premiere Networks syndicated morning star Bobby Bones is offering his listeners the opportunity to put their personal twist on The General Insurance’s jingle for a chance to win a trip to Las Vegas to see Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots perform. Fans can enter the contest by creating their own video showcasing their spin on the jingle. The winning video will receive a three-day, two-night trip to Las Vegas to meet Bobby Bones and attend the Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots performance on November 15 at Reynolds Hall at Smith Center.
Friday, August 9, 2019
Nunn Boosted to YEA Networks President. Three-year YEA Networks executive vice president of sales Shawn Nunn is elevated to the 
newly- created position of president at the independent radio and podcast company. Chief executive officer George Laughlin notes, “I’ve had the privilege of working with Shawn for more than 20 years. He is a trusted advisor and a highly-effective leader, who has been essential to the incredible growth and expansion of the company over the past three years. Under his leadership, YEA Networks will continue to deliver the highest quality products and services to the audio industry.” Nunn adds, “I am more than grateful to George for this opportunity. I have worked with many on the YEA team for much of my career and I am honored to take the lead. George’s vision and passion for this industry is immeasurable and I look forward to continuing this journey with him.” Texas native/Texas State University alum Nunn previously spent five years as Townsquare Media’s vice president of national sales; four years as GAP Broadcasting’s vice president of sales; and has held media industry positions in Dallas, Seattle, and Colorado Springs. YEA Networks’ syndicated programs include: various Kiddnation podcasts, “The Hollywood 5,” “The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show,” and “Tino Cochino Radio.
WCMC-FM Shifts “SportsChannel8: The Radio Show” to Weekdays. Saturday morning’s 10:00 am -12:00 noon “SportsChannel8” will begin airing weekdays in the same slot on Capitol Broadcasting Raleigh sports talk WCMC-FM,
starting next Thursday (8/15). As a result, “FM 99.9 The Fan” will have nine consecutive hours of local sports talk programming each weekday. WCMC program/operations director Dennis Glasgow states, “We couldn’t be more excited to add the ‘SportsChannel8’ brand to our weekday lineup. Not only do we add another two hours a day of outstanding local content, we’ll also be offering probably one of the most engaging, entertaining, and hyper-local shows I have ever heard in my six years in ‘The Triangle.’” The show is hosted by longtime North Carolinian Hayes Permar, along with Josh Goodson and Brian Geisinger. Permar remarks, “We are incredibly excited and humbled to be part of the already outstanding lineup that ‘99.9 The Fan’ offers listeners every weekday. Our crew is made up of guys who all grew up and became sports fans in North Carolina; our show has and will continue to reflect that.” Coinciding with the change, ESPN Radio’s Dan Le Batard will transition from WCMC to co-owned/similarly formatted WCMC-HD2 “Buzz Sports Radio” and add an extra hour (10:00 am – 1:00 pm).
TALKERS News Notes. Exiting Total Traffic & Weather Network, owing to restructuring, are senior vice president of affiliate services
Roger Nadel; vice president of affiliate sales for the southeast Christopher Leonard; and head of operations for the southwest John Winder ….. After an 18-year career as an NFL QB (the first seven with the Philadelphia Eagles and the last 11 with the Washington Redskins), Sonny Jurgensen hung up the helmet and spikes in 1974. The soon-to-be (8/23) 85-year-old Hall of 
Famer is now hanging up the headsets as the longtime Redskins’ radio analyst. He made the announcement before last night’s (Thursday, 8/8) pre-season, pre-game show. Jurgensen commented, “I’ve had so many wonderful memories of teammates I’ve played with and talked about during my years in radio and television. The relationships with coaches and executives over the 50 years have been special. My broadcast partners such as Sam Huff, Frank Herzog, Doc Walker, and George Michael lived through the glory years together – all great memories. My good friend Andy Ockershausen was responsible for bringing together the original broadcast team of ‘Sonny, Sam, and Frank.’ After 62 years in professional football, I still have my health and wonderful family; a special thanks to my beautiful wife, Margo, for letting me work the weekends for all those years. I’ll always be a fan of professional football and appreciative of all that it has done for me, my family, and our city” ….. KTUL-TV, Tulsa marketing consultant Jessica Foster joins Stephens Media Group Tulsa as director of sales. SMG owner David Stephens notes, “Jessica has the well-rounded media experience we need to maximize revenue. Her ties to the local advertising community and reputation for excellence adds to the strength of our cluster.” Senior vice president of radio and digital sales Summer Kirkland comments, “Having worked alongside Jessica for several years, I have witnessed the way she incorporates her vast media knowledge with a passion for people to achieve success.” Prior to KTUL-TV, Foster worked at Interep/D&R; Entercom St. Louis news/talk KMOX; and several stations in Atlanta and Springfield, Missouri. The Stephens Media Group Tulsa cluster includes news/talk KCFO “AM 970 Talk You Can Trust,” sports talk KYAL “97.1 The Sports Animal,” contemporary Christian KXOJ and KXOJ-HD2, alternative KMYZ “Z-104.5 The Edge,” and KTSO “Totally Awesome 80s” ….. Part of next Monday’s (8/12) 
debut of iHeartMedia Reading, Pennsylvania’s news/talk WRAW “News Radio 1340” will be the return of Rush Limbaugh to the market. Regional senior vice president of programming for iHeartMedia Allentown and Harrisburg Jeff Hurley comments, “We’re thrilled to bring an all-star lineup of talk radio programs to Reading. We’re confident that WRAW will become a favorite source for compelling news, talk, and entertainment.” The station’s weekday lineup will include: “The RJ Harris Breakfast Show” (5:00 am – 9:00 am); Glenn Beck (9:00 am – 12:00 noon); Limbaugh (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm); Sean Hannity (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm); Buck Sexton (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm); and “Crime Stories with Nancy Grace” (9:00 pm – 10:00 pm) ….. As part of an 
extended relationship with NRG Media Omaha, all hockey, and men’s and women’s basketball games of the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks will air on sports talk KZOT “1180 AM – The Zone 2.” In the event of a hockey conflict, any and all basketball games will be heard on sports talk KOZN “1620 AM – The Zone” or KOIL “News Talk 1290.” NRG Radio Omaha general manager Mark Shecterle remarks, “We are extremely excited to
continue our partnership with UNO. As the sports leader in Omaha, it is important that we associate our stations with great sports programs like UNO. We look forward to broadcasting UNO sports on our stations this upcoming year, and many years to come.” UNO vice chancellor of athletics Trev Alberts notes, “NRG Media has provided our hockey and basketball teams with a reliable radio home for many years; we are pleased to continue this mutually beneficial relationship. NRG Media is a recognized leader in sports broadcasting in Omaha, and its stations allow our fans to follow the Mavericks, both over-the-air and through live streaming.” Gary Sharp will be back for his seventh season calling UNO men’s basketball. He will work with former Maverick Kyler Erickson who will begin his first season as analyst for all home games. Likewise, Donny Baarns enters his first year of lead play-by-play announcer for UNO hockey broadcasts. He will work alongside Terry Leahy who has provided color commentary for all 22 seasons of UNO hockey. Lester St. James will return for his 10th season as the rink-side reporter for all home games. Meanwhile, Jon Schriner replaces Baarns as play-by-play voice of Omaha women’s basketball ….. The Wall Street Journal is among the first to report that Facebook is offering news outlets millions of dollars for the rights to put their content in a news section that the company hopes to launch later this year. The project involves the social network striking deals potentially worth millions of dollars to publishers including The New York Times, The Washington Post and Dow Jones, parent company of The Wall Street Journal, among others. The Journal reported yesterday (Thursday, 8/8) that Facebook representatives had told news executives that they’d pay as much as $3 million a year to license stories, headlines and other material. Publishers could pick between putting the stories directly on Facebook’s tab or putting previews in that go back to the original site. These arrangements would last for three years. Thus far though, it’s unclear if any publishers have signed on yet.
New Installment Posted of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The recently launched, one-hour weekend program, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” produced by Goodphone Communications that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS magazine, will be posted this afternoon (Friday 8/9) on the website of its flagship station, iHeartMedia’s WONK-FM, Washington, DC. The new episode titled, “The Nation Grieves and Argues!” looks back at this past week of August 5-9, 2019 and features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS magazine; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; Mike Siegel, syndicated talk show host, GCN; Harry Hurley, WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; Rick Ungar, syndicated talk show host, “The Rick Ungar Show”/former CEO Marvel Entertainment; and Renee Kohanski, M.D., forensic psychiatrist and medical profession podcaster. The news/talk media show airs on WONK-FM on Friday afternoons between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm as a recap and exclamation mark for the week-in-review as well as several other stations around the country including KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA and during the weekend on the Virginia Talk Radio Network as well as Pioneer Valley Radio in Springfield, MA. Hosted by Michael Harrison, this excellent show is now being made available as a service to terrestrial news/talk stations from TALKERS for on-air or online presentation on a market-exclusive basis. For information call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. To listen to this week’s episode (and the program’s complete archives), please click here.
Cool Job Opportunity. There are actually three of them to share – all at Fox News. A freelance writer is needed for the Fox News Headlines team. You will write news for the national news network, conceptualize, write, compile enterprise stories, fact check, and build show content newscasts. This is a shift-based role, including overnight and weekend shifts. You will work some holidays and must be available off-hours in the event of major breaking news. Among the responsibilities are writing fast-paced newscasts; generating creative and innovative ideas for writing news segments; and 
communicating daily story development with producers and editors. A degree in journalism or related field is preferred. Click here to apply. In addition, Fox News Radio D.C./New York is seeking an overnight freelance anchor. The person in this position will work under tight deadlines, must have a passion for breaking news, and be flexible to work on a days’ notice. In order to be considered for this role, a link or MP3 file of a demo reel/air check is needed. Among responsibilities are writing for a one-hour live national newscast; writing five-minute and one-minute newscasts; and handling live breaking news coverage during national newscasts. Requirements include strong writing skills; ability to work under tight deadlines; flexibility to work primarily weekend shifts; and at least five years’ experience as a news anchor. Network or major market experience is preferred. Click here to apply. Needed as well is a freelance producer/news editor to supervise the staff for the network radio news operation. This person will work with news anchors to craft content and structure of a 24/7 news operation. Responsibilities include: formatting, programming, coordinating, and producing a live news program; producing segments and reporter hits; handling staffing issues when managers are not present; and working on developing stories as the day progresses. Candidates must: be highly skilled in writing and copy editing; have familiarity with social media; be able to handle breaking news situations; have strong editorial judgment; and be able to interact with high-profile talent. Click here to apply.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Director of sales for Townsquare Media’s four-station Cedar Rapids (Iowa) cluster, Brian Sines, transfers to Texarkana (Texas/Arkansas) to become market 
president/chief revenue officer of the company’s five stations there. Townsquare senior vice president Todd Lawley notes, “I have worked with Brian the past five years and watched him build Cedar Rapids into one of the top performing clusters at Townsquare. The Cedar Rapids market hasn’t missed a budget in three years and holds a dominant position with both their broadcast and digital performance. I’m confident that Brian will quickly build upon the high performing team that serves the community, our listeners, and the clients of Texarkana. It is extremely rewarding to again have the ability to promote from within, which is a direct reflection to the level of talent we have at Townsquare.” Sines remarks, “I am excited to join the team in Texarkana. Townsquare is fortunate to have such a long-tenured team in place that truly cares about our clients, our listeners, and super serves the community. I look forward to working with the number one media team in the market and starting a budget-busting streak of our own.” Sines formerly held market manager, GSM, and director of sales positions in Des Moines, Madison (Wisconsin), and Burlington (Iowa) at stations owned by the then-Clear Channel (now iHeartMedia). Townsquare Media’s five Texarkana stations are country KKYR “Kicker 102.5”; CHR KPWW “Power 95.9”; classic rock KYGL “Eagle 106.3”; urban AC KMJI “Magic 93.3”; and gospel KOSY “790 AM.” ….. Program director Al Payne has left Cumulus Media Kansas City urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3.” Prior to his KC tenure, Payne programmed in Dallas (KRNB); Washington, DC (WKYS); Detroit (WMGC, WGPR, WDMK); Baltimore (WERQ, WWIN); and Greensboro (WQMG) ….. WLXX “92.9 Nash FM,” Lexington (Kentucky) promotes on-air 
talent Deidre Ransdell to program director of the Cumulus Media country outlet. Cumulus Lexington general manager Scott Frazier opines, “Having Deidre Ransdell as WLXX program director is like naming [Houston Astros RHP] Justin Verlander as your starter in game one of the World Series. She brings talent, experience, drive, and the will-to-win to the station. I’m very much looking forward to working with her.” Operations manager Anthony “Twitch” Longo comments, “It’s a great day when we get to promote someone as talented and hardworking as Deidre. She is a force to be reckoned with; to say I am excited to have her at the helm of “92.9 Nash FM” is an understatement.” After a 15-year career in education, Ransdell has been a Lexington on-air talent the past 18 years. She joined WLXX’s morning show in 2001 and has been heard in various other day-parts on the station. Last year, Ransdell added overnights at Nashville’s co-owned/similarly formatted WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon” and is heard on various other country stations on Cumulus Media’s Westwood One Radio Network …. As voted by the Academy of Country Music membership, the ACM announces its officers for the 2019 – 2020 term. They are: Ed Warm (chair); Lori Badgett (president); Chuck Aly
(vice president); Carmen Romano (treasurer); Gayle Holcomb (sergeant-at-arms); Paul Moore (parliamentarian); and Tommy Moore (secretary). Outgoing chair Duane Clark comments, “The Academy’s history is one of continually building upon its successes and supporting the artists we love, and the music they create that shapes our culture. I am grateful for – and proud of – the hard work and dedication of the Academy’s board, our partners, and our passionate staff. With Ed [Warm] stepping in as chair, I am confident we are in the best hands to guide our organization to new heights.” Warm remarks, “I have greatly enjoyed my involvement with the Academy and am looking forward to carrying the torch from Duane. I’m proud to work with the many talented industry people who volunteer their time for our artists, industry, and fans.” ….. Adult contemporary WLDR “101.9 – Northern Michigan’s Music Leader,” Traverse City joins Blarney Stone Broadcasting rock sibling WQON “Q-100,” Grayling (Michigan) as an affiliate on the Detroit Lions radio network. Blarney Stone Broadcasting president/chief executive officer Sheryl Coyne notes, “We know how important Detroit Lions football is to their passionate fan base in Northern Michigan; we’re proud to be able to deliver all the games in such professional broadcasts.”
Rasberry Receives MIW “Airblazer Award.” Longtime co-host of YEA Networks’ syndicated “The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show,” Kellie Rasberry, was honored with the 2019 MIW “Airblazer Award” during the 31st annual Talentmasters Morning Show Bootcamp (MSBC). Radio Advertising Board president/chief executive officer Erica Farber made the presentation. Now in its fifth year, the MIW “Airblazer Award” stems from an alliance formed between the MIW Group and MSBC and honors a deserving on-air radio personality. In addition to her work as co-host of “The Kidd Kraddick 
Morning Show,” Rasberry co-hosts (with her husband, Allen Evans) the weekly podcast, “A Sandwich and Some Lovin.’” She is on the board of directors of Kidd’s Kids, a non-profit organization that takes children with life-altering conditions to all-expenses paid trips to Disney World with their family. After more than two decades in radio, Rasberry has won several “Favorite Female Radio Personality of the Year” awards. She was a co-host on Fox Television’s “Dish Nation,” “Love Letters with Matthew & Kellie,” and webcast of the “Blockbuster Entertainment Awards.” During “Women of Radio Week,” she co-hosted “Live! With Regis.” Pictured (left to right) are Farber, Rasberry, and 2018 MIW “Airblazer Award” honoree Mercedes Martinez of Entercom Las Vegas hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1.”
July 2019 PPM Data. Information for the July 2019 ratings period has been released for Boston, Miami, and Seattle. Nielsen Audio’s July 2019 survey period covered June 20 – July 17. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these three markets.
Boston
Spoken-Word Formats – Winning ways continue for iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO, which nets +1.5 via seven successive positive or neutral trends (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.6, 6+). Moreover, July’s impressive +.9 propels “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” all the way into the top ten (#12 to #8), with 3.6 (6+) surpassing November 2014’s 3.3. Up one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (.4 – .5 – .6, June and July, 6+), co-owned WXKS-AM “Talk 1200” repeats at #26.
The combined sports talk share of this sports crazy market’s two high-powered FMs deflates by -2.4 (June 2019 – July 2019, 6+) with Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM absorbing 75% of that hit (5.6 – 3.8, fourth to seventh, 6+). Nine recent shifts for “98.5 The Sports Hub” include: +.9 (October 2018); +.8 (November); -1.0 (December); +.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January 2019); -.8 (February); +.8 (May); -1.4 (June); and July’s whopping -1.8. “The Sports Hub” is the lead station of the Stanley Cup runner-up Bruins; Super Bowl champion New England Patriots; and the Celtics. The month-to-month drop-off for Entercom-owned sports talk WEEI-FM is one-third that of “The Sports Hub” (3.9 – 3.3, -.6, 6+); the flagship of the 2018 World Series champion Boston Red Sox flagship slips from eighth to tenth. Sample shifts for WEEI-FM include: -.5 (September 2018); +.5 (October); +.6 (November); -2.0 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.7 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); -.5 (March); +.6 (April); and -.6 (July).
WBZ-AM is truly locked on 5.0 (6+), as that is what “News Radio 1030” logs for the fifth successive month. The iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid progresses from sixth to fifth; it was +1.3 in January/February (4.3 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+).
By regaining the one-tenth it lost in June (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+), Boston University news/talk WBUR returns to the top ten (#11 to #9, 6+), while WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH repeats June’s 6+ AQH share (2.2) and market rank (#16).
Boston Music Formats – Not only does Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR replicate June’s increase of six-tenths (7.6 – 8.2 – 8.8, 6+), “105.7 – 80s & More” is #1 for the fourth month in a row. When WROR dropped two-tenths in May, it snapped at four a consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted a +2.2 (5.6 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+). Boston’s (6+) pacesetters thus far this calendar year have been: iHeartMedia-owned CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” (January, 7.3, and February, 7.4, 6+); WROR (March and April, 7.8 – both times, 6+); WROR and WXKS-FM (May, 7.6, 6+); WROR (June, 8.2 and July, 8.8, 6+). At the same time that iHeartMedia-owned WBWL “101.7 The Bull Boston’s #1 For New Hit Country” improves by six-tenths (2.1 – 2.7, #17 to #13, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WKLB “Country 102.5” regresses by seven-tenths (4.7 – 4.0, seventh to sixth, 6+). A June loss of three-tenths by “The Bull” ended six successive sweeps without a loss that netted six-tenths (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+). This is the highest 6+-share for “The Bull” since August 2017 (2.7, as well). “Country 102.5, meanwhile was a cumulative +1.3 in four straight “Holiday 2018 through April 2019 bumps (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+). In four consecutive positive spikes, Northeast Broadcasting triple A WXRV gained a collective nine-tenths (1.8 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.7, 6+), but “92.5 The River – Boston’s Independent Radio” forfeits six-tenths to 2.1 (#12 to #17, 6+). Up a combined-eight-tenths in May/June (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” forfeits one-half share to 6.4 (6+) but continues in third-place. June’s 6.9 was its highest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 14.5. Albeit a collective -1.2 in six straight down or flat moves (3.1 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WJMN “Jam’n 94.5” improves from #19 to #18. In the market’s CHR arena, iHeartMedia’s aforementioned WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” is a combined -.7 in June/July (7.6 – 7.2 – 6.9, 6+) but repeats in the runner-up slot. A one-half share increase in May took “Kiss 108” to 7.6, its strongest 6+-performance since August 2018’s 7.8. Meanwhile, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WODS “103.3 Amp Radio” is down or flat the sixth straight time for a net loss of four-tenths (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1, #17 to #16, 6+).
Miami
English-Language Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio
620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” has lost just two-tenths and carries on at #18 (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+).
Seven successive sweeps without a loss yielded three-tenths for Entercom’s WAXY (.6 – .6 – .6 – .7 – .7 – .8 – .9 – .9, 6+), but “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” is off one-tenth in July to .8 (#25 to #26, 6+). Co-owned WQAM – which recently rebranded from “Sports Radio 560” to “560 The Joe” – has a January 2019 through July 2019 topline of .6 – .5 – .7 – .5 – .6 – .5 – 6 (#29 to #30, 6+).
While it remains at #20, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN falters by four-tenths to 1.9 (6+), thus snapping four straight up or flat reports that produced a net gain of two-tenths (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+).
Miami Music Formats – Without an increase the last three ratings periods and down three-tenths in that March through June stretch (2.9 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned urban contemporary WMIB “103.5 The Beat” ends the slide with a +.6 to 3.2 (6+) and jumps from #16 to #12. This is its best 6+-showing since December 2018 (3.2, as well). In four straight drops, Spanish contemporary sibling WZTU was a collective -1.7 (5.1 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.1 – 3.4, 6+). “Tu 94.9” pulls the plug in July though by picking up three tenths to 3.7 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#12 to #10). June’s 3.4 was its weakest 6+-stat since October 2017 (3.4, as well). Flat at #15, Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary WRMA “Ritmo 95.7,” which had faltered by seven-tenths in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.7, 6+), gains one-tenth to 2.8 (6+). Miami’s pacesetter the seventh consecutive ratings period (including a three-way tie at #1 in February), Cox Media Group-owned adult contemporary WFEZ “Easy 93.1,” follows June’s increase of eight-tenths with a July loss of three-tenths (6.8 – 7.6 – 7.3, 6+). Eight-tenths has been a common fluctuation recently for “Easy” as it was down eight-tenths in February; up by that magnitude in March; and up again by eight-tenths in June. Entering the “Holiday” 2018 sweep, “Easy 93.1” finished on top seven straight times. Following three up or flat trends in succession that netted nine-tenths (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+), CHR cluster-mate WFLC returns roughly half that increase with a one-half share decline to 3.3 (6+). As a result, “Hits 97.3” exits the top ten (#9 to #11); June’s 3.8 was its highest 6+-share since December 2017’s 4.0. “Hits 97.3” responded to March’s one-tenth loss with an April increase of six-tenths. Meanwhile, iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” recaptures half of June’s loss of four-tenths (2.6 – 2.8, +.2, 6+) and advances from #16 to #15. When “Y-100” added one-tenth in March, it curtailed five straight reports without an increase for a collective setback of nine-tenths (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+). WHYI posted a half-share increase in May. Even though Entercom’s similarly-formatted WLYF picks up one-tenth to 5.5 (6+), thus suspending four straight sweeps without an increase that led to an overall -1.2 (6.6 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.4, 6+), “101.5 Lite FM” slips to #4. It had been in third-place the past four months. Anchored at #7, Cox Media Group urban contemporary WEDR “99 Jamz” is a collective -1.1 through six straight negative or neutral moves (5.2 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+). Spanish Broadcasting System-owned Spanish tropical WXDJ is -1.1 in five straight down or flat trends (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.8, 6+) as “El Zol 106.7” falls from eighth to ninth.
Seattle
Spoken-Word Formats – Recapturing the three-tenths it dropped in June (4.9 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM remains in fifth-place. Co-owned KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” is up a cumulative one-half share in three straight sweeps without a loss (1.2 – 1.2, 1.4 – 1.7, flat at #22, 6+). This comes directly after losing roughly 43% (-.9) of its 6+-stat due to three straight down or flat trends (2.1 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+). In five successive negative or neutral reports, Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570” has lost more than half (-.9) of its 6+ AQH share since February (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .7, #24 to #26, 6+).
Bonneville sports talk/Mariners’ flagship KIRO-AM “ESPN 710” is a collective -1.3 in three straight drops (4.3 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.0, #13 to #14, 6+). With its 6+ stat sliced by more than 60% (-.9) via four consecutive slips (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .6 – .5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” falls from #27 to #28.
For the third time in the last four sweeps, Sinclair Broadcast Group all-news KOMO logs a 2.8 (2.8 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8, #16 to #15, 6+).
This calendar year, Northwest Public Radio news/talk KUOW has ranked #1 (January, February, and March); #2 (April); #1 (May); #3 (June); and now #2 (5.6 – 5.5, -.1, July 2019, 6+).
Seattle Music Formats – June’s first-place tie is broken with an exclamation point. Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned KZOK “102.5 Seattle’s Classic Rock Station” dials up a July uptick of nine-tenths and has the top spot all to itself. At the same time, Hubbard Broadcasting CHR KQMV “MOViN’ 92.5 – Seattle’s #1 Hit Music Station” surrenders eight-tenths (6.1 – 5.3, 6+) and segues from that first-place tie to #3. Thus, the two stations that were locked together in June are now separated by nearly two full-shares. There’s much more to the story though as KZOK is an impressive +3.3 owing to eight straight bumps (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 7.0, 6+). Immediately in advance of this positive run, KZOK was -1.6 in four consecutive ratings periods without an increase (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 3.7, 6+). A collective -1.0 in four successive down or flat trends (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+), KQMV applied the brakes in June with a gain of one-tenth. “MOViN’” made it to #1 in April, the first time it reached the lead spot since November 2018. Tacking on six-tenths to July’s boost of eight-tenths (3.7 – 4.5 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits KJAQ “96.5 Jack FM Playing What We Want” jumps from sixth to fourth. Moreover, Seattle’s version of “Jack” reaches the five-share threshold (5.1, 6+) for the first time in nearly ten years (5.0, October 2009). Not only has Hubbard Broadcasting’s KNUC more than doubled (+2.2) its 6+ AQH share in eight successive up or flat sweeps (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+), “New Country 98.9 The Bull” enters the top ten (#11 to #8). Furthermore, it leapfrogs Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf – #1 For Country,” which erases May’s +.9 with June/July’s combined -.9 (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+) and exits the top ten (#6 to #12). Prior to April, when it regressed by six-tenths, “The Wolf” was a cumulative +1.4 as a result of three straight upticks (3.3- 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+). Bustos Media regional Mexican KDDS “99.3 La Gran D” pops on with a .7 (6+) and checks in at #26. Not only does a loss of six-tenths to 4.2 (6+) by Entercom’s KISW curtail three consecutive positive spikes that produced a +1.1 (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.5 4.8, 6+), “Rock 99.9” fades from the top ten (#4 to #11). This is the third month in a row that Entercom adult contemporary KSWD “94.1 The Sound” (4.5 – 4.4, -.1, flat at #6, 6+) and Hubbard Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted KRWM “Warm 106.9” (4.4 – 4.3, -.1, ninth to eighth, 6+) are separated by one-tenth. Prior to eroding by -1.1 in April, “The Sound” was an overall +1.5 through three consecutive increases (3.7 – 3.8 – 5.1 – 5.2, 6+). Entering the May sweep, “Warm 106.9” recorded a 4.8 (6+) in three of the previous four reports (4.8 – 4.0 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+) and was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018. Without an increase the seventh time in a row for a collective -2.3 (5.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+), Sinclair Broadcast Group hot AC KPLZ “Star 101.5 Today’s Best Mix” is now in a four-way tie at #15.
Talk Radio Pioneer Mike Siegel is this Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. Veteran conservative/libertarian talk radio personality Mike Siegel is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Siegel, a former private practicing attorney and school teacher, currently syndicated by Genesis Communications Network (GCN), was one of the early broadcasters to emerge in the late-eighties post-Fairness Doctrine period described by Harrison as “the modern era of talk radio.” During that 
period, Siegel – who hosted shows on such stations as KING and KVI in Seattle – was, according to Harrison, “the quintessential, local, muckraker aggressively holding local politicians, government and big corporations accountable for their actions.” Harrison and Siegel, whose latest book is titled Airing the Wave: Talk Radio at the Dawn of the Digital Era (Page Publishing, 2016), informally chat about the changes talk radio has experienced through the years as it has evolved from the analog era into the digital age, not to mention the transitional state of journalism itself. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and on every page of Talkers.com.
Friday, June 14, 2019
Cumulus Media Splits WMAL-FM and WMAL-AM to Create ‘ESPN 630 – The Sports Capitol.’ The AM/FM simulcast of news/talk on Cumulus Media’s WMAL-AM/FM will end on July 1 as the company creates a new sports talk outlet
for the Washington, DC market branded “ESPN 630 – The Sports Capitol.” The news/talk format on continues on WMAL-FM and its digital platforms. The new sports/talk station will carry ESPN Radio weekday programming, including “Golic and Wingo” in morning drive and “The Stephen A. Smith Show” from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. It will also air ESPN’s NBA and MLB schedule, Washington Redskins games and sports talk shows hosted by local personalities. Cumulus Washington vice president and market manager Jake McCann says, “We’re thrilled to be partnering with the two biggest sports brands in D.C. – ESPN and the Washington Redskins. We look forward to creating compelling content for our listeners and advertisers as a natural expansion of our relationship with the Redskins.” The station will announce its full lineup in advance of the July 1 start date.
Martha Zoller Returns to Talk Radio at WDUN, Gainesville. Longtime talk radio personality Martha Zoller is re-joining her former radio station after spending the last five years in politics. When she returns to Jacobs Media’s
WDUN, Gainesville, Georgia on June 24, she’ll be hosting the 9:00 am to 10:00 am hour. Zoller ran for congress in 2012 lost the runoff election to current Republican Congressman Doug Collins. After that she worked for U.S. Sen. David Perdue and later for Gov. Brian Kemp, where she served as a policy advisor and outreach director. 
She says, “After spending the last few years traveling around Georgia and meeting Georgians from every walk of life and political persuasion, I’m excited to be back at WDUN to share how the sausage is made. You might be surprised at some of the insights. I can’t wait!” WDUN EVP and general manager Bill Maine comments, “She’s uniquely qualified as a broadcaster. She’s well connected, knowledgeable, and her show mattered both to the listeners and politicians she talked about. I’m thrilled we’re getting her back on the air, and I think the audience will be, too.”
New Jersey Broadcasters Association Names Broadcaster of the Year and New Members of Hall of Fame at Annual Convention. The annual New Jersey Broadcasters Association (NJBA) convention just concluded (6/12-13) at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City and from all reports it was a rousing success. Among the highlights of the event, WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (pictured above, right, with NJBA president Paul Rotella, left) was named the 2019 Broadcaster of the Year – the inaugural presentation of this prestigious award – and a number of Garden State broadcasters were installed in the association’s New Jersey Radio Hall of Fame. Among them, Salem Media Group VP of spoken word format, Phil Boyce. In honor of the occasion, Salem’s New York outlet WNYM (AM 970 The Answer) broadcast its morning show hosted by Joe Piscopo live from the convention. Pictured below are (from l-r): WNYM’s Kevin McCullough, Boyce, Piscopo and WNYM’s Frank Morano. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison made the presentation to Hurley via video. To view it, please click here.
The John Batchelor Show to Broadcast from Uzbekistan. WABC, New York talk radio host John Batchelor is taking his late-night show to Tashkent, the capital of the Uzbekistan Republic, where it will broadcast live next week. The venture is being sponsored by marketing firm Scala Inc in conjunction with the
Central Asia, Mongolia, Caucasus and Afghanistan Forum and the Rumsfeld Foundation. WABC says, “Uzbekistan is deep into the heart of the legendary Silk Road, and host John Batchelor and co-host Christopher Nixon Cox will interview young entrepreneurs who are striving to transform a region of 80 million people into an 
economic engine to bring prosperity to a civilization that was ignored by the Russian Empire and abused by the Soviet Empire.” Batchelor adds, “Tashkent is part of a chain of ancient city-states of traders and farmers that created cultures of wealth and art more than 2,000 years ago, attracting conquerors from Alexander the Great to Tamerlane and Genghis Khan. In between this dusty game of thrones, the city states achieved breakthroughs in geometry, astronomy, medicine, and mathematics that Western Europe would not see until the Enlightenment. Today, the Central Asian states are starting to recover their own history and with it a sense of pride. And Uzbekistan, the most populous state of Central Asia, is looking to America for a guide on how to awaken and enhance its pioneering ambitions.”
New Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap” for Week of June 10-14 Now Posted. The recently launched, one-hour weekend radio show, “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation,” analyzing the hot talk media topics of this past week (June 10-14) is now posted on the website of its flagship station, iHeartMedia’s WONK-FM, Washington, DC. It currently airs on WONK-FM Saturday mornings at 9:00 am but will move next week to the key position of Friday at 6:00 pm as a dynamic programming
punctuation mark of the week’s conversation. Hosted by TALKERS magazine’s iconic publisher, this week’s installment (titled “The Drums of Impeachment, Hatch, Hyde and a Helicopter!”) features a lineup of guests that includes TALKERS executive editor Kevin Casey; radio talk show hosts Harry Hurley of WPG, Atlantic City; Jack Riccardi of KTSA, San Antonio; comedian/social commentator Jimmie JJ Walker; and ACLU senior policy analyst Jay Stanley. The non-partisan-but-hard-hitting program explores multiple opinions along the spectrum of contemporary American political and social thought. It was recently picked up by KSCO, Santa Cruz where it airs on Fridays at 6:00 pm. According to TalkersRadio general manager David Bernstein, the program is now available on a market exclusive basis to news/talk stations around the nation. Bernstein says, “We began this show as an on-air extension of TALKERS magazine research to be played on TalkersRadio and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The show is nothing short of fantastic and provides a great image-setter for any news/talk outlet. iHeartMedia picked it up for its new WONK-FM in DC where it fits that station’s mission perfectly and a number of stations have inquired about its availability. We are in the process of figuring out where we want to go with it.” For more information about the program, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. To listen to it in its entirety please click here.
Round Four of May PPMs Released. The fourth and final round of Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 PPM survey results is released for the group of 12 markets that includes: Austin, Raleigh-Durham, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. You can see all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Takeaways from this group of markets on Monday (6/17).
Robby Bowen Named VP/Director of Sales for Entercom New Orleans. Sales pro Robby Bowen was most recently general sales manager for Entercom’s
Dallas operations. In his new role as vice president and director of sales for the New Orleans station group, he’ll be leading sales efforts for news/talk WWL-AM/FM, and four music brands. Entercom New Orleans SVP and market manager Kevin Cassidy says, “Robby has an exceptional track record of leading sales teams and programs for clients. We are pleased to keep his talents within Entercom and welcome him to the bayou.”
WHO, Des Moines’ Van Harden and Bonnie Lucas Enshrined in Iowa Broadcasters Hall of Fame. WHO, Des Moines morning personalities Van Harden (right) and Bonnie Lucas (left) were inducted into the Iowa Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame at the awards luncheon yesterday (6/13)
in West Des Moines. The annual awards luncheon honors and recognizes Iowa broadcasters who make a difference through their great stories of leadership, integrity, reliability, service over self, team building, and mentoring across the state. Harden and Lucas are the fourth and fifth WHO personalities to be inducted into the Iowa Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame joining the ranks of legendary 
broadcasters such as Jack Shelley, Jim Zabel and Keith Kirkpatrick. Harden says, “Just coming to a job you love where you can have fun and help people every day is amazing enough in itself. Especially when I’ve been able to do it with such an uplifting and fun co-host for over three decades. Being inducted into the Iowa Broadcasting Hall of Fame with so many incredible broadcasters is truly a surreal and over-the-top experience.” Lucas adds, “This job is not work. It’s having fun talking with your friends, inviting them into your world. It’s being in the middle of all the news that’s happening both locally and all around the world. It’s working with a co-host for decades who has been my friend for 40 years. We don’t do this for awards, but this award is extremely special.”
Democratic Party Impeachment Talk/John Dean Testimony Top News/Talk Story for Week of June 10-14. The intensifying talk among Democrats about beginning impeachment proceedings against President Trump and the related testimony from Nixon White House Counsel John Dean was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Trump Mexico deal and immigration reform. Coming in at #3 were the Hong Kong protests, tied with U.S.-China relations and U.S.-North Korea relations, followed by the Trump foreign campaign intel controversy at #4. The Talkers TenTM 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. See this week’s entire chart here.
Beasley Radio Talent Institute at Emerson College Begins Monday. The 2nd annual Beasley Radio Talent Institute for students, interns, and young professionals begins at Emerson College in Boston on Monday (6/17). It is an
intense, 10-day program in which participants have the opportunity to meet with and learn from radio professionals currently working in the broadcast industry. Beasley Media Group chief operating officer and executive vice president Brian Beasley officially kicks off the sessions. Students will learn from some 40 experts in the broadcasting field working at companies including: Beasley Media Group, iHeartMedia, Entercom Communications, Hall Communications, the New England Patriots, the Boston Bruins, the Boston Celtics and more. The Beasley Radio Group Talent Institute is part of the National Radio Talent System produced by Dan Vallie that takes place on select college campuses across America each year.
VSiN Partners with Gow Media to Distribute Sports Betting Radio Content. The Las Vegas-based Vegas Stats & Information Network enters into a relationship with Houston-based Gow Media to distribute sports betting content via what they are calling “the nation’s first terrestrial radio network dedicated
exclusively to sports betting news and information.” It will debut in August. VSiN chairman Dan Mason says, “We’re thrilled to provide Gow Media with select sports betting content for terrestrial radio syndication on this exciting new platform. Establishing itself as the leader in the sports gambling information industry, VSiN is differentiated not only by delivering the most credible, actionable sports betting news and insights, but also by adding the entertainment factor with a variety of personalities. Over the past 10 years sports radio has exploded and now there’s a new, younger audience emerging that will use analytics to inform their wagers within the growing regulated betting markets. This new network fits perfectly in that space, combining great personalities and legendary odds makers with sophisticated analytics.”
WPG, Atlantic City Morning Mainstay Harry Hurley Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The man who has been waking up South Jersey listeners from 6:00 am to 10:00 am on heritage talk station WPG-AM/W238CZ, Atlantic City for more than a quarter century, Harry Hurley, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Hurley is about to be honored with the very first New Jersey Broadcaster of the Year Award at the forthcoming New Jersey Broadcasters Association (NJBA) convention this week on Thursday (6/13) at
Atlantic City’s Tropicana Hotel. Hurley, who also serves as the lead FOX News Radio substitute host, is a past recipient of the TALKERS Humanitarian of the Year Award for his remarkable philanthropic work in raising more than $800,000 over the past dozen years via his Hurley in the Morning Charity and distributing it to hundreds of worthy causes and organizations in Atlantic City and across the Garden State. Harrison and Hurley – who is positioned this year at number 51 on the TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” list of the Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America – discuss the state of politics, media, journalism, and popular culture in a fascinating conversation that dives deep into the workings and thought-processes attendant to executing today’s talk show. Don’t miss it! To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter or on every page of Talkers.com.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Philadelphia, Radio One promotes urban contemporary WPHI “Boom 103.9” midday personality and APD Paris Nicole to program director for the station. The company notes that this promotion makes Nicole the youngest program director
currently employed by the company. Radio One Philadelphia station manager Ezio Torres says, “Paris earned this promotion by stepping into a void at our station months before the position was created. From managing and scheduling the staff, to orchestrating ‘Boom Class of 2019’ flawlessly, she proved what we already knew – Paris Nicole is a natural leader. With that skill and her incredible relationships, she will take ‘Boom 103.9’ to the next level.”…..Westwood One is presenting an Independence Day special called “Celebrate the USA,” hosted this year by RCA Records recording artists Old Dominion. Joining the band for the radio special will be fellow country artists Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, and Florida Georgia Line, Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett, and many more. The program is available for air Thursday, July 4 through Sunday, July 7.…..Telcom Supply Inc agrees to sell former classic hits KETX-FM, Livingston, Texas to Christian radio operator KSBJ Educational Foundation for $385,000. Greg Guy and Jason James of Patrick Communications, LLC served as exclusive brokers for the deal.
Round Three of Nielsen’s May PPMs Released. May 2019 ratings information has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 survey period covered April 25 – May 22. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM markets.
Portland
Spoken Word Formats – In addition to erasing 50% of March/April’s -1.0 with a
one-half share increase (3.7 – 4.2, 6+), Alpha Media news/talk KXL “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” is back in the top ten (#13 to #10). Anchored at #18, iHeartMedia’s KEX falters by three-tenths (2.3 – 2.0, 6+); “News Radio 1190 – Depend On Us” was up two-tenths in April. Alpha Media news/talk KUFO “Freedom 970” return’s April’s one-tenth increase and has a January 2019 through May 2019 topline of 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – .9 (#24 to #26, 6+).
Having more than tripled (+1.2) its 6+ AQH share via three straight improvements (.5 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned Portland Trailblazers flagship KPOJ “Sports Radio 620” jumps from #23 to #21. It is tied there with Alpha Media sports talk KXTG “The Game,” which has nearly doubled (+.8) its 6+-stat through five successive sweeps without a loss (.9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7, flat at #21, 6+). After losing one-tenth in back-to-back reports, Entercom sports talk KFXX “1080 The Fan” picks up four-tenths to 1.5 (steady at #23, 6+), its best 6+-showing since October 2018’s 1.7.
Following an April gain of six-tenths, Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talk KOPB erodes by nine-tenths (7.9 – 7.0, 6+) and shifts from second to third. This calendar year, KOPB has been +1.2 (January 2019); -1.6 (February); a combined -2.0 in February/March; +.6 (April); and -.9 (May). This (7.0) is its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 6.9.
Portland Music Formats – Entercom-owned KWJJ posts a +.8 in May and continues a down/up pattern that began in December 2018 (3.4 – 2.7 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 4.6, 6+); “99.5 The Wolf” – The Northwest’s Hottest Country” reenters the top ten (#12 to #6) with its best 6+-stat since July 2018 (4.6, as well). An increase of four-tenths by Alpha Media’s similarly-formatted KUPL takes “98.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” to 4.6 (ninth to sixth), its highest 6+-stat since February 2018’s 4.7. Prior to dropping three-tenths in April, “The Bull” was a collective +1.2 in three straight gains (3.3 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+). On top the fourth month in a row, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH “106.7 The Eagle” is nonetheless a combined -1.1 in April/May (8.9 – 8.6 – 7.8, 6+). When “the Eagle” faltered by three-tenths in April, it curtailed three consecutive upticks that yielded a +3.5 (5.4 – 7.1 – 8.1 – 8.9, 6+). Prior to February, KLTH last reached the eight-share level (6+) exactly eight years ago (May 2011, 8.1, as well). Entercom adult hits KYCH “97.1 Charlie We Play Everything” erodes by -1.4 (5.1 – 3.7, 6+), the largest (6+) April 2019 to May 2019 decrease by any station in the 12 PPM-markets highlighted here. Moreover, “Charlie” plummets from the top ten (#4 to #12) with its lowest 6+-stat (3.7) since September 2018’s 3.6. A loss of seven-tenths (4.0 – 3.3, 6+) sends iHeartMedia classic rocker KFBW “105.9 The Brew” from #11 to #15. After scoring an overall +2.3 in four straight sweeps without a loss (2.4 – 2.6 – 3.6 – 4.9 – 4.9, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFIS “104.1 The Fish” surrenders six-tenths to 4.3 (sixth to ninth, 6+). While unchanged at #17, All Classical Public Media’s KQAC “All Classical Portland” is a collective -2.1 in four consecutive down or flat moves (4.4 – 4.4 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 2.3, 6+). Immediately prior to sputtering by seven-tenths in March, KQAC was without a loss four times in a row for a collective +1.8 (2.6 – 2.7 – 3.4 – 4.4 – 4.4, 6+) and reached the four-share level (4.4, 6+) for the first time since February 2017’s 4.2.
Charlotte
Spoken-Word Formats – Immediately after notching back-to-back gains of
four-tenths (3.6 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+), Entercom news/talk WBT is an overall -1.2 in three straight declines (4.4 – 4.3 – 3.7 – 3.2, #12 to #13, 6+). May’s 3.2 is its lowest 6+showing since September 2018 (2.9).
In an alternating up/down sequence that began in “Holiday” 2018 (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.2 – 1.5, 6+), co-owned WFNZ “The Fan – Charlotte’s Sports Leader” has lost one-tenth in that timeframe; the Charlotte Hornets flagship remains at #19.
A combined +1.1 in January/February, University Radio Foundation news/talk WFAE “Charlotte’s NPR News Source” follows with a -.6 (March); +.5 (April); and -.5 in May (2.8 – 2.3, #14 to #16, 6+). This is the fifth time in the last six sweeps (and third time in a row) that South Carolina Educational Television Commission news/talk WNSC logs a .3 (flat at #22, 6+).
Charlotte Music Formats – Steady at #7, Beasley Media Group mainstream CHR WNKS “Kiss 95.1” racks up a +2.1 via four straight gains (3.2 – 3.6 – 4.7 – 5.1 – 5.3, 6+). This immediately follows four consecutive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a -1.2 (4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+). Tacking on a +1.1 to April’s +.8 (2.0 – 3.1, 6+), Davidson College-owned WDAV jumps from #17 to #14. Entering the April sweep, “89.9 Classical Public Radio” lost a collective half-share in four straight down or flat trends (1.7 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2, 6+). Not only does a positive spike of eight-tenths deliver Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC its strongest 6+-stat since November 2018 (7.5, as well), “103.7 Country’s Hottest Hits” is #1 for the fourth month in a row (including a February tie for the lead). Prior to gaining nine-tenths in January, WSOC had been without an increase the previous four reports for an overall -1.3 (7.7 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 6.6 – 6.4, 6+). On top in September 2018, October, and November, WSOC segued to third in December. Even though iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WKKT is a cumulative +1.1 in three straight bumps (5.3 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.4, 6+), “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” backslides from a second-place tie to third. Prior to logging a +1.2 in January, WKKT was a combined -2.3 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (6.7 – 5.8 – 4.4, 6+). Leaping over “The Kat” is its adult hits cluster-mate WLKO “102.9 The Lake.” As is the case with WSOC, “The Lake” notches a May spike of eight-tenths (6.3 – 7.1, steady at #2, 6+). Its six most recent fluctuations are -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.4 (February); +.5 (March); -.5 (April); and +.8 (May). Immediately in advance of “Holiday” 2018’s -1.2, WLKO posted eight straight months without a loss for a +3.7 (4.1 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 6.4 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+). Beasley Media Group cluster-mates WSOC and WBAV dislodged “The Lake” from #1 in February, after WLKO’s January-only stay on top. Pulling the plug on six straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a -1.6 (5.5 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+), Entercom hot AC WLNK “107.9 The Link Charlotte’s Best Mix” dials up a one-half share gain to 4.4 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#11 to #10). Owing to three slips in succession, Beasley Media Group urban contemporary WPEG “Power 98” is an overall -1.9 (6.0 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 4.1, 6+) and departs the top ten (#7 to #11). A combined -1.2 in April/May (3.3 – 2.6 – 2.1, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WRCM “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” falls from #16 to #18.
San Antonio
Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of April’s +1.1 (4.2 – 5.3, 6+),
iHeartMedia news/talk WOAI forfeits roughly half that increase (4.8, -.5, 6+) but repeats at #4. April’s 5.3 marked the first time WOAI reached the five-share level since August 2016’s 5.2. Before dropping one-tenth in March, “News Radio 1200 – San Antonio’s News, Traffic, & Weather” was an 
overall +1.0 in three straight sweeps without a loss (3.3 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+). A dip of one-tenth to 1.4 (#22 to #21, 6+) by Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” suspends three successive up or flat trends that netted three-tenths (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.5, 6+).
Locked on .4 (6+) in March and April, KTSA’s sports talk sibling KZDC “ESPN San Antonio” drops one-tenth to .3 (6+) but stays at #31. The 6+ AQH share of iHeartMedia’s KTKR “Ticket 760 – San Antonio’s Sports Station” shrinks by two-thirds (-.4) in April/May (.6 – .3 – .2, flat at #32, 6+).
After dropping three-tenths in back-to-back reports (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX repeats April’s 3.1 (6+) and inches up from #15 to #13.
San Antonio Music Formats – Off six-tenths in March/April (8.0 – 7.9 – 7.4, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” obliterates that deficit with a +1.1 to 8.5, its highest 6+-stat since September 2018’s 8.8. On top the third month in succession, KONO-FM had been in the runner-up slot five successive times before progressing to #1 in March. In advance of slipping to #2 in November 2018, KONO-FM finished at #1 the previous ten sweeps. A full-share increase to 3.0 (6+) by Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KZAR propels “Air 1 Worship Now” into the top twenty (#14) and halts three successive negative trends that accounted for a -1.3 (3.3 – 2.4 – 2.2 -2.0, 6+). Conversely, co-owned/similarly-formatted KZLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” erodes by a full-share immediately after April’s +.5 (2.9 – 3.4, 2.4, #13 to #17, 6+). “K-Love” was off three-tenths in February/March (3.2 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+). The market’s (6+) country share balloons by +1.0, nearly equally divided between Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” (6.5 – 7.1, +.6, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” (5.8 – 6.2, +.4, 6+). KCYY and KAJA continue at #2 and #3, respectively. Recent shifts for “Y-100” include: +.9 (August 2018); -.8 (September); +.9 (November); -.8 (December); -1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.8 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.6 (March); and +.6 (May). “KJ-97” has been +.5 (September 2018); -1.1 (October); +1.0 (December); -1.0 (“Holiday” 2018); +3.0 (January 2019); and –1.9 (March). Wild shifts continue for iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT “Q-101.9.” It bounced back from January’s -10.7 (14.9 – 4.2, 6+) with a February +.4; was -.6 in March; +.8 in April; and now -.6 in May (4.8 – 4.2, sixth to ninth, 6+). In four consecutive sweeps without an increase, Univision Radio rhythmic hot AC KVBH “107.5 The Vibe” is a collective -1.4 (3.4 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.0, #21, 6+). Tejano KXTN transitioned to KVBH “The Vibe” in mid-April. Up eight-tenths through three straight positive or flat trends (3.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.4, 6+), rhythmic CHR cluster-mate KBBT “98.5 The Beat” regresses by two-tenths to 4.2 (6+) but stays in ninth-place. April’s 4.4 is its best 6+-showing since August 2018’s 4.5. A one-half share decrease (5.0 – 4.5, 6+) drops Cox Media Group hot AC KSMG “Magic 105.3 Today’s Best Music” from fifth to sixth.
Sacramento
Spoken-Word Formats – Following three straight sweeps without an increase that led to a collective -1.6 (7.6 – 7.0 – 6.2 – 6.0, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk KFBK “Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station” picks up one-tenth to 6.1 (6+) and remains in the 
runner-up slot. KFBK was tied for first in January. Co-owned KSTE “Talk 650” continues an alternating down/up pattern that commenced in December 2018: 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.3 – 2.6, #15 to #14 (6+).
In addition to reaching a one-share (6+) for the first time since December 2018’s 1.0, Entercom’s KIFM-AM “ESPN Radio 1320” adds one-tenth the third sweep in a row (.7 – 8. – .9 – 1.0, #24 to #22, 6+). Flat at #25, Bonneville’s KHTK “Sports 1140” has lost exactly half (-.6) its 6+-stat in four straight down or flat trends (1.2 – 1.2 – .9 – .8 – .6, 6+).
Five decreases in succession by Capital Public Radio news/talk KXJZ accounted for a roughly 50% loss (-3.4) of its 6+-share (6.9 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.5, 6+). Ending the slide with a +1.0 to 4.5 (6+), KXJZ returns to the top ten (#12 to #9); December 2018’s 6.9 is the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history.
Falling from #26 to #27, Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQEI has an October 2018 through May 2019 topline of .6 – .6 – .7 – .6 – .7 – .7 – .6 – .7 – .5 (6+).
Sacramento Music Formats – Erasing March/April’s combined -.6 (8.6 – 8.5 – 8.0, 6+) with a May uptick of nine-tenths (8.0 – 8.9, 6+), Entercom-owned KSEG “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” is #1 for the fourth month in a row (including January’s first-place tie with iHeartMedia news/talk KFBK). “The Eagle” held the lead position ten consecutive survey periods before shifting to #2 in December. Ten of its recent fluctuations include +1.0 (May 2018); +.9 (June); -.9 (July); +.6 (September); -.5 (October); -1.1 (November); -.8 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.0 (February 2019); -.5 (April); and +.9 (May 2019). Its format challenger, iHeartMedia’s KYRV “93.7 The River,” expands by one-half share via three consecutive (modest) spikes (5.2 – 5.3 – 5.5 – 5.7, seventh to fifth, 6+). As a result of four straight up or flat trends, Entercom CHR KUDL “106.5 The End” is an overall +1.9 (4.1 – 4.1 – 5.3 – 5.6 -6.0, fifth to fourth, 6+). As adult contemporary sibling KYMX “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites” falters by -1.1 (5.7 – 4.6, 6+) dropping from third to eighth, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KBEB “92.5 The Breeze” gains four-tenths (3.7 – 4.1, #10 to #11, 6+). A combined -7.8 in January/February (13.8 – 6.2 – 6.0, 6+), “Mix 96” was up two-tenths in March but surrendered one-half share in April. This (4.6) is its weakest 6+-stat since September 2015’s 4.5. Formerly “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country,” KBEB transitioned to adult contemporary as “The Breeze” in early-November (2018). It netted a +2.1 in three straight positive spikes (2.4 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.5, 6+), in advance of March/April’s -.8 (4.5 – 4.3 – 3.7, 6+). Forfeiting two-thirds of April’s +.9 (5.6 – 5.0, -.6, 6+), Entercom alternative KKDO “Alt 94.7” slips from fifth to sixth. The market’s (6+) country share sputters by a combined half-share as Bonneville’s KNCI “New Country 105.1” is off three-tenths yet actually advances from eighth to seventh, and Entravision Communications’ similarly-formatted KNTY “101.9 The Wolf” drops two-tenths (2.2 – 2.0, 6+) and remains at #16. Having benefitted by an overall +1.4 in three consecutive improvements, “New Country 105.1” is down eight-tenths in April/May (5.6 – 5.1 – 4.8, 6+). Meanwhile, this is the 15th successive survey period that “The Wolf” logs a 6+-share between 2.0 – 2.5.
Pittsburgh
Spoken-Word Formats – Albeit unchanged at #10, Entercom’s KDKA-AM
“News Radio 1020” follows January’s +1.1 with four straight drops accounting for a -1.4 (5.1 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+).
After gaining four-tenths in April, co-owned sports talk/Pirates flagship KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” regresses by seven-tenths (6.8 – 6.1,
6+) and slides from fourth to fifth. Continuing at #22, iHeartMedia sports talk WBGG 970 AM – ESPN Pittsburgh” has an ultra-consistent September 2018 through May 2019 topline of .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 (6+).
Down a combined -.7 in March/April (4.3 – 4.2 – 3.6, 6+), Essential Public Media news/talk WESA “90.5 Pittsburgh’s NPR Station” erases all but one-tenth of that deficit (4.2, +.6, 6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #9).
Pittsburgh Music Formats – Sharing top honors for largest (6+) April 2019 – May 2019 increase by any station in the 12 PPM-markets highlighted here is Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Wish 99.7” (6.3, +1.4, seventh to fourth, 6+). Moreover, “Wish 99.7” applies the brakes to four consecutive declines that resulted in a net loss of roughly half (-5.0) of its 6+-stat (9.9 – 5.8 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 4.9, 6+). Progressing from third to second, Steel City Media adult hits WRRK “96.9 Bob FM” is +1.3 in three straight upticks (6.9 – 7.4 – 8.0 – 8.2, 6+), directly following a -1.8 in three consecutive sweeps without an increase (8.7 – 7.7 – 7.7 – 6.9, 6+). Answering April’s loss of nine-tenths with a May gain of six-tenths (8.3 – 8.9, 6+), WDVE is #1 for the fourth successive month. The iHeartMedia rocker posted identical gains of eight-tenths in February and March (7.6 – 8.4 – 9.2, 6+). WDVE spent 11 successive sweeps in the runner-up slot before dropping to third in December. By not having an increase the past three sweeps, co-owned CHR WKST was off a collective seven-tenths (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.4, 6+), but “96.1 Kiss FM Pittsburgh’s #1 Hit Music Station” improves by six-tenths in May to 6.0 (fifth to sixth, 6+). Alternative cluster-mate WXDX is an overall -1.7 in three straight decreases (4.8 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 3.1, 6+) as “105.9 The X” exits the top ten (#9 to #11). Forever Media-owned classic hits-oldies WKPL falters by one-half share (2.3 – 1.8, 6+) but remains at #14. There’s little movement in the hot AC contest as Entercom’s WBZZ “Star 100.7” repeats April’s 5.0 (sixth to seventh, 6+) and Steel City Media-owned WLTJ “Q-92.9” is up tenth and is trending 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.1 (#12 to #11, 6+). A March loss of one-tenth by “Star” curtailed at three a successive string of increases that led to a +1.2 (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.9, 6+); “Q-92.9” gained a combined half-share in February/March (2.9 – 3.1 – 3.4, 6+).
Salt Lake City
Spoken-Word Formats – Having logged a 5.2 four times in the last six sweeps (5.2 – 4.6 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+), Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7
FM & 1160 AM” craters by -1.3 to 3.9 (sixth to eighth, 6+). A combined +1.8 in January/February (3.3 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” follows with three straight down or flat sweeps for a collective -1.7 
(5.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.4, ninth to tenth, 6+). The January 2019 through May 2019 topline for Cumulus Media-owned KKAT “860 AM – Utah’s Big Talker” is .3 – .2 – .3 – .4 – .3 (flat at #21, 6+).
Repeating at #15, University of Utah news/talk KUER loses one full-share as a result of three drops in a row (3.1 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+).
Salt Lake City Music Formats – The rollercoaster ride continues for iHeartMedia-owned classic hits-oldies KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits,” which netted +2.9 via three straight upticks (4.4 – 6.4 – 6.8 – 7.3, 6+); surrendered a -1.1 in April; and roars back in May with a +1.2 (7.4, steady at #3, 6+). Dialing up a May +1.1, independent KSOP-FM continues an alternating down/up pattern that surfaced in December 2018: 4.2 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 3.6 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 5.4 (eighth to sixth, 6+) “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country” notches its best 6+-showing since December 2017 (5.4, as well). An increase of seven-tenths takes Cumulus Media CHR KENZ “Power 94.9 Utah’s New Hit Music” to 3.0 (#14 to #11), its highest 6+-stat since September 2018’s 3.5. Adding six-tenths to April’s +.1 (2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KAAZ climbs from #13 to #11. The last time “106.7 Utah’s Best Rock” reached the three-share level (6+) was in July 2018 (3.2). Down or flat the past three straight sweeps for a net loss of six-tenths (6.0- 5.6 – 5.4- 5.4, 6+), Capital Broadcasting hot AC KBZN “Now 97.9 – Today’s Best Music” ends the slide with a +.4 to 5.8 (6+) and carries on at #4. The one-tenth lead that Bonneville-owned classic hits-oldies KRSP “103.5 The Arrow” had in April over adult contemporary cluster-mate KSFI “FM 100.3 – Better Music/Better Work Day” dissipates as “The Arrow” falters by six-tenths to 7.6 (first to second, 6+) and “FM 100.3” adds two-tenths (8.1 – 8.3, second to first, 6+). It was an April-only stay at #1 for KRSP, which had been an overall +2.5 in five consecutive increases (5.7 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 7.0 – 7.8 – 8.2, 6+). Before segueing to the runner-up slot in April, KSFI was on top the previous five ratings periods. “FM 100.3” registered a +1.5 in March, following January/February’s -14.4 (21.8 – 7.9 – 7.4, 6+). Three straight increases netted a mammoth +16.2 (5.6 – 5.7 – 12.7 – 21.8, 6+) for KSFI, the only PPM-market station in “Holiday” 2018 to reach the 20-share level (6+). Its format challenger, Cumulus Media’s KBEE “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites,” has its fourth consecutive decrease for an overall -1.2 (4.2 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0, 6+) and is unchanged at #11.
Las Vegas
Spoken-Word Formats – Up or flat four straight times for an overall +.8 (1.6 –
2.2 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+), Entercom’s KXNT “News Talk Radio 840” forfeits 75% of that increase and fades from the top twenty (2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #15 to #21, 6+). February, March, and April’s 2.4 is its best 6+-showing since February 2017’s 2.8. For the fourth time in the last five sweeps and third time in a row, Beasley Media Group
news/talk KDWN “AM 720 Where Las Vegas Comes to Talk” notches a 1.1 (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1, flat at #23, 6+).
Over and above climbing from fifth to third, Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR (+1.2 in May) extends its consecutive string of positive spikes to five and nearly doubles (+2.8) its 6+ AQH share since “Holiday” 2018 (3.0 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 4.6 – 5.8, 6+).
Las Vegas Music Formats – A combined -1.2 in March/April (3.9 – 3.4 – 2.7, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s KCYE “102.7 The Coyote – #1 For New Hit Country” erases all but one-tenth of that shortfall with a May +1.1 to 3.8 (6+) and reenters the top ten (#14 to #9). Immediately prior to the March report, “The Coyote” recorded five successive monthlies without a loss for a net gain of eight-tenths (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.9, 6+). In five sweeps in a row without a loss, Entercom rhythmic hot AC KXQQ is a cumulative +1.1 (3.9 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 5.0, 6+). “Q-100.5” zooms from eighth to fourth and reaches the five-share level (6+) for the first time in exactly one year (5.0, as well, May 2018). Univision Radio regional Mexican KISF “Zona Mx 103.5” wipes away April’s one-half share loss with a May increase of the identical magnitude (1.8 – 2.3, +.5, #19 to #16, 6+). Advancing by one-half share as well are Lotus Communications-owned KOMP “92.3 The Rock Station,” which is trending 2.6 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.6 (#18 to #14, 6+) and the University of Nevada’s KUNV “91.5 FM – Jazz & More,” whose January 2019 through May 2019 topline is 2.0 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 2.0 (#22 to #17, 6+). Despite dropping one-half share (7.6 – 7.1, 6+), Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies KKLZ “96.3 – Hits of the Eighties & More” is #1 for the fourth month in a row. February’s 8.3 marked the first time KKLZ reached the eight-share level (6+) in its PPM-history. The station it succeeded at #1 in February, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE “Sunny 106.5 – Better Music for a Better Workday,” is -8.0 in five consecutive sweeps without an increase (12.8 – 7.5 – 6.7 – 6.7 – 5.5 – 4.8, 6+) and shifts from third to fifth. The last time KSNE fell below a five-share (6+) was October 2017 (4.8, as well). Prior to being #1 from September 2018 through January 2019, “Sunny” set the pace in March, May, June, and July. Its “Holiday” 2018 12.8 is the highest 6+-share for any Las Vegas station since the 14.0 KSNE logged in “Holiday” 2016. In addition to returning 60% of April’s +1.0 (3.4 – 2.8, -.6, 6+), Beasley Media Group hot AC KVGS “Star 107.9 Vegas’ Best Variety” exits the top ten (a three-way tie at #10 to #13). In April, it reached the three-share level (3.4, 6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 3.0. Format rival – Entercom’s KMXB “Mix 94.1” – is +1.0 in three consecutive increases (5.5 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.5, steady at #2, 6+). This (6.5) is the strongest 6+-stat for “Mix” since July 2018’s 6.7. In four straight declines, Faith Communications contemporary Christian KSOS is -1.3 (4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 3.4 – 3.0, 6+) as “SOS Radio” departs the top ten (#10 to #12).
Orlando
Spoken-Word Formats – Recapturing 70% of March/April’s -1.0 (4.5 – 5.2, +.7,
6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WDBO-FM progresses from tenth to eighth; “News 96.5” was a combined +1.9 in January/February (3.6 – 5.1 – 5.5, 6+). The November 2018 through May 2019 topline for iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We 
Say What We Want” is exclusively between 3.1 – 3.9 (6+): 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.9, flat at #11). Locked on 2.5 (6+) in March and April, news/talk cluster-mate WFLF adds four-tenths to 2.9 (#15 to #14, 6+).
Despite dropping one-tenth (.8 – .7, 6+), sports talk sibling WYGM “FM 96.9 The Game – Orlando’s Sports Leader” advances from #20 to #19. Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WDBO-AM “ESPN 580 Orlando” repeats April’s .3 (6+) but backslides from #22 to #23.
Flat at #12, Community Communications’ news/talk WMFE “90.7 Public Radio for Central Florida” is off six-tenths in April/May (4.0 – 3.7 – 3.4, 6+).
Orlando Music Formats – When Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL “105-9 Sunny FM – We Own The ‘80s” dropped three-tenths in April, it interrupted three consecutive increases that netted a +3.3 (4.9 – 6.9 – 7.9 – 8.2, 6+). Promptly responding with a robust May +1.1 to 9.0 (6+), “Sunny” storms from third to first. Ousted from the top spot and segueing to second is iHeartMedia Spanish tropical WRUM “Rumba 100,” which is -1.0 in three straight down or flat trends (9.5 – 8.9 – 8.5 – 8.5, 6+). This calendar year, WRUM was #1 in January, February, and April. “Rumba” spent 11 consecutive ratings periods on top before falling to #2 in December and “Holiday” 2018. April 2017’s 12.8 is the best-ever 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. Down nine-tenths via four straight decreases (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 2.6, 6+), co-owned WJRR “101.1 – Orlando’s Rock Station” dials up a +.8 to 3.4 (#14 to #12, 6+). Within 5.2 – 5.9 range in each of the last five survey periods (5.2 – 5.6 – 5.9 – 5.7 – 5.3 (6+), Cox Media Group-owned WMMO “98.9 Orlando’s Classic Hits” logs a +.7 to 6.0 (eighth to fifth, 6+). Immediately following four improvements in a row that netted a +1.7 (7.3 – 7.4 – 8.1 – 8.4 – 9.0, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WXXL “XL-106.7 Orlando’s #1 Hit Music Station” is a combined -2.0 in April/May (9.0 – 8.4 – 7.0, second to third, 6+). Unchanged at #4, Cox Media Group urban AC WCFB “Star 94.5” is a combined -1.5 in April/May (7.8 – 7.6 – 6.3, 6+) with 6.3 its lowest 6+-stat since September 2018 (6.3, as well). Faltering eight-tenths to 5.1 (6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF “Magic 107.7” falls from sixth to ninth. By picking up one-tenth in April, “Magic” ended three straight decreases accounting for an overall -8.5 (14.3 – 6.9 – 5.9 – 5.8, 6+). WMGF was a combined +8.5 December/“Holiday” 2018 (5.8 – 9.8 – 14.3, 6+). The “Holiday” 2018 through April 2019 topline for Cox Media Group-owned WWKA is 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 4.7 (6+), but “K-92.3 Orlando’s #1 For New Country” surrenders one-half share in May to 4.2 (ninth to tenth, 6+). Even though Entercom alternative WQMP is up eight-tenths through three straight bumps (2.1 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat since September 2018 (2.9, as well), “101.9 Orlando’s New Alternative” backslides from #13 to #14.
Cincinnati
Spoken-Word Formats – Anchored in the runner-up slot, after a January-only
stay on top, iHeartMedia news/talk (and flagship of the Reds) WLW is down a combined half-share in April/May (9.9 – 9.5 – 9.4, 6+). Exiting the top ten (#10 to #11), co-owned WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station in Cincinnati” has a November 2018 through May 2019 topline of 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.5 (6+).
Sports talk cluster-mate WCKY “Cincinnati’s ESPN 1530” erodes by two-thirds (-.4) in four straight down or flat trends (1.2 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – .8, #22, 6+), while co-owned WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” has its 6+-stat sliced in half in April/May (.6 – .4 – .3, #21 to #24, 6+).
The overall +1.1 that Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU accrued through three consecutive gains (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+) vanishes completely in April/May with a combined -1.1 (3.7 – 3.1 – 2.6, #13 to #14, 6+).
Cincinnati Music Formats – Displaying its highest 6+-showing (7.5) since “Holiday” 2018’s 14.6, Cumulus Media adult contemporary WRRM “Warm 98” progresses from fourth to third. Its five shifts this calendar year are -8.2 (January); +.4 (February); -.6 (March); +.6 (April); and +.7 (May, 6.8 – 7.5, 6+). Posting a May +.7 as well is Radio One urban AC WOSL “100.3 Cincy’s R&B Station” (3.2 – 3.9, 6+), which cracks the top ten (#12 to #9) and has its best 6+-performance since February 2017 (3.9, as well). Anchored in eighth-place, iHeartMedia-owned WEBN “Cincinnati’s Rock Station” adds one-tenth to 4.2 (6+), thus suspending four consecutive ratings periods without an increase that led to a loss of nine-tenths (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 4.1, 6+). Notwithstanding that Cumulus Media’s country-formatted WNNF remains at #15, “94.1 Nash FM” logs its fifth straight up or flat trend for an overall +1.1 (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.5, 6+). Off -2.1 in three straight drops (9.4 – 8.7 – 7.9 – 7.3, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting-owned/similarly-formatted WUBE “B-105.1 Cincinnati’s Country” picks up two-tenths to 7.5 (6+) and continues in third-place. Not only is Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR #1 for the fourth sweep in succession, “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” is +3.6 in five successive increases (8.1 – 9.6 – 10.2 – 11.1 – 11.3 – 11.7, 6+). After a December-only stay at #1, WGRR spiraled by -1.8 in “Holiday” 2018 (9.9 – 8.1, 6+) and shifted to third. Immediately prior to its -1.8, WGRR was an overall +1.3 via four straight gains (8.6 – 9.1 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.9, 6+). While it is unchanged in sixth-place, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” is -1.0 as a result of four drops in a row (6.5 – 6.4 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5, 6+). A collective +.7 in four consecutive reports without a loss (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WIZF “101.1 The Wiz” forfeits four-tenths in May to 3.0 (#11 to #12, 6+).
Cleveland
Spoken-Word Formats – The three most recent fluctuations by iHeartMedia
news/talk WTAM “1100 Cleveland’s News Radio” are -.6 (March); +.9 (April); and -.7 in May (5.8 – 5.1, seventh to ninth, 6+). The Indians flagship logged a January/February +1.3 (4.2 – 5.1 – 5.5, 6+). Salem Media Group news/talk WHK resurfaced in print in April and, while it repeats April’s .5, “AM 1420 The Answer – News-
Opinion-Insight” drops from #18 to #19.
Ensconced in tenth-place, Entercom’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” is a collective -1.4 in an alternating down/up pattern that began in January (5.4 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 3.9 – 4.0, 6+).
An overall +1.6 via five straight sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.7, 6+) Ideastream-owned news/talk outlet WCPN is steady at #12.
Cleveland Music Formats – A combined +.9 in April/May (4.7 – 4.8 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WMMS advances from ninth to seventh as “100.7 Cleveland’s Rock Station” reaches the five-share level (5.6, 6+) for the first time since October 2017’s 5.0. Recapturing all but one-tenth of the seven-tenths it surrendered in April (3.2 – 3.8, +.6, 6+), Entercom hot AC WQAL “Q-104 Plays The Hits” proceeds from #12 to #11. Its March increase of three-tenths curtailed three successive negative moves that led to an overall -1.6 (5.2 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 3.6, 6+). A May gain of four-tenths by iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI (9.8 – 10.2, 6+) wipes away 40% of April’s -1.0 as “Majic 105.7 – Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” is on top for the sixth straight ratings period. Five of its recent fluctuations include +2.8 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.7 (January 2019); +.8 (February); +1.0 (March); and -1.0 (April). Despite being down or flat the past five ratings periods for a -1.2 (8.7 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.5, 6+), Radio One urban AC WZAK remains in the runner-up slot. This, however, is its lowest 6+-showing since October 2018 (7.5, as well). As a result of regressing by one-half share to 7.4 (third to fourth, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “99.5 Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” concludes four consecutive bumps that accounted for an overall +3.5 (4.4 – 6.1 – 6.6 – 6.8 – 7.9, 6+). That streak directly followed five consecutive losses that resulted in a -3.7 (8.1 – 7.2 – 6.8 – 6.5 – 5.7 – 4.4, 6+).
Kansas City
Spoken-Word Formats – Down a combined eight-tenths in March/April (5.6 –
5.4 – 4.8, 6+), Entercom news/talk KMBZ-FM “98.1 News-Traffic-Weather” slices that deficit in half with a May gain of four-tenths to 5.2 (sixth to fifth, 6+). Flat at #20, co-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980” dropped two-tenths in March; gained three-tenths in April; and 
loses two-tenths in May (2.3 to 2.1, 6+). Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” is off two-tenths via three straight down or flat trends (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2, #21 to #22, 6+).
Both of the market’s major sports talk outlets forfeit one-tenth in May. The flagship of the Royals, Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio,” was a combined +1.7 in March/April (2.3 – 2.8 – 4.0, 6+), but drops to 3.9 (unchanged at #10, 6+). As a result of four straight negative or flat trends, Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” is -2.0 (5.0 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.1 – 3.0, flat at #14, 6+).
Not only is University of Missouri news/talk KCUR +1.9 through five straight up or flat moves (3.0 – 3.4 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.9, 6+), it zooms into the top ten (#11 to #6).
Kansas City Music Formats – An April increase of four-tenths by Cumulus Media-owned KCFX “101 The Fox – Kansas City’s Classic Rock Station” halted February/March’s combined -2.8 (10.1 – 8.2 – 7.3, 6+). In May, “The Fox” not only adds another seven-tenths to 8.4, its highest 6+ showing since January 2019’s 10.1, KCFX progresses from second to first. Albeit +2.5 via four consecutive reports without a loss (5.4 – 6.6 – 7.7 – 7.9, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling KCMO-FM “94.9 Kansas City’s Greatest Hits,” is dislodged from the top spot after a two-month stay and shifts to #2. Four recent KCMO-FM fluctuations include +1.6 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.3 (January 2019); +1.2 (February); and +1.1 (March). An improvement of six-tenths propels Entercom hot AC KZPT “99.7 The Point” into the top ten (#13 to #10) with its best 6+-showing since November 2018 (3.9, as well). Exactly doubling (+1.5) its 6+-stat in three up or flat moves in a row (1.5 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+), University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KJNW “Life 88.5” inches up from a three-way tie at #15 to #14 and has its strongest performance (3.0) since January 2018’s 3.5. The market’s three major country players find May 2019’s sweep to be a mixed bag. Halting a March/April slide that was responsible for a -1.1 (4.1 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+), Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” gains one-half share to 3.5 (#15 to #13, 6+) and Steel City Media’s KFKF “Country 94.1” improves by three-tenths to 4.8 (6+), continuing at #7. Co-owned KBEQ “Q104 New Hit Country” though relinquishes 60% of March/April’s +1.0 with a loss of six-tenths (5.9 – 5.3, 6+) but carries on in fourth-place. April’s 5.9 is its best 6+-stat since June 2018 (5.9, as well). Faltering by -1.0 in April/May (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.0, 6+), Cumulus Media urban AC KMJK “Magic 107.3” slides from #11 to #14. Steel City Media CHR KMXV “Mix 93.3” (4.4 – 3.7, #8 to #12, 6+) and Entercom’s KQRC “98.9 The Rock” (5.1 – 4.6, fifth to eighth, 6+) regress by seven-tenths and one-half share, respectively. By dropping one-tenth to 2.9 (#15 to #17, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned KCJK “X-105.1 Kansas City’s Alternative” ends four successive increases that netted +1.2 (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 3.0, 6+). Prior to April’s 3.0, “X-105.1” last reached the three-share threshold (6+) in September 2016 (3.1). A collective -2.0 via four successive declines (4.5 – 3.8 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+) by Cumulus Media CHR KCHZ “95.7 The Vibe – All The Hits” (flat at #18) directly follows five consecutive positive or flat moves that resulted in a +1.4 (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+).
Columbus
Spoken-Word Formats – Without an increase in each of the last four reports for
an overall -2.0 (7.0 – 5.9 – 5.5 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN “News Radio 610” drops from fifth to sixth.
Unlisted in January, February, and March, RadiOhio sports talk outlet WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” displays an April 4.7 (6+) and a May 4.6 (sixth to seventh, 6+).
As was the case in April, Ohio State University news/talk WOSU (4.7 – 4.6, -.1, 6+) is tied with WBNS-FM; in April it was at #6, in May it is at #7.
Columbus Music Formats – A collective –1.1 through three successive decreases (8.3 – 8.0 – 7.7 – 7.2, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WNCI “97.9 Columbus’ Hit Music Station” obliterates that in one step with a whopping +1.4 to 8.6 (third to second), its strongest 6+-performance since September 2018’s 9.4. Co-owned adult hits WODC “93.3 The Bus” is +1.0 in three straight up or flat trends (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 5.1, 6+) and drives from eighth to fifth with its best 6+-stat (5.1) since 8.7 in “Holiday” 2018. One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO “104.9 The River” notches a gain of six-tenths (3.7 – 4.3, 6+) and carries on in ninth-place. Accustomed to significant monthly swings, iHeartMedia-owned WCOL “92.3 Columbus’ #1 For New Country” (13.0 – 11.7, -1.3, 6+) sets the pace for the 18th sweep in a row and has been in double-digits (6+) each ratings period since June 2017. Sample WCOL fluctuations include +3.1 (January 2018); -1.7 (February); +1.1 (March); +1.0 (April); +1.2 (June); +.6 (July); 1.2 (August); -.5 (October); -1.5 (November); -2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +.8 (January 2019); +.7 (February); +1.2 (April); and -1.3 (May). In three straight increases, Saga Communications’ WLVQ amassed a +1.9 (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.1 – 8.7, 6+) but “Iconic Rock Q-FM 96” follows with a combined April/May -1.4 (8.7 – 8.4 – 7.3, 6+) and slips from second to third. Even though Ohio State University’s WOSA has more than doubled (+.6) its 6+ AQH share as a result of eight consecutive up or flat moves (.5 – .9 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+), it has had consecutive backward moves, #16 to #17 in April and #17 to #18 in May. Owing to five straight positive or flat reports, Saga Communications hot AC WVMX netted seven-tenths (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.9, 6+), but “Mix 107.9” is off three-tenths in May to 2.6 (6+), dropping from #11 to #12.
Thursday, April 18, 2019
Radio News and Talk Pro Brad Messer Dies After Illness. Former KMET, Los Angeles news director and former KTSA, San Antonio talk show host Brad Messer has died after a long illness. LARadio.com reports on Messer’s death, noting that he worked for 47 years in radio 
in markets including Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, and San Diego as well. While at KTSA, Messer was regularly honored on TALKERS magazine’s “The 100 Most Important Radio Talk Hosts” annual list and was the ONLY person in the history of the list who came to us and requested that he no longer appear on the list so that his space could be used for a young-up-and-comer! TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says, “Brad Messer was the quintessential radio newsperson of the modern era, the greatest of his generation – not to mention a superb talk show host – and one of the finest human beings I have had the privilege of knowing in the broadcasting business over these past 52 years.”
‘Godfather of Sports’ Chet Coppock Dies at 70 After Car Accident. Numerous Chicago news outlets are reporting the death of Chicago sports media legend Chet Coppock. WLS
-TV is reporting that Coppock passed away yesterday (4/17) from injuries suffered in an auto accident near Hilton Head, South Carolina on April 11. During his career, the Chicagoland native worked in television, radio, and print in Chicago as well as New York and Indianapolis. Windy City media writer Robert Feder notes that Coppock “was a top sports anchor at NBC-owned WMAQ-Channel 5 in the 1980s. He segued to radio where he became known as the ‘Godfather of Sports Talk Radio.’ His colorful career included stints as an announcer for the Roller Derby and World Wrestling Federation.” Coppock left his TV gig in 1984 to join WMAQ-AM to host his interview-driven sports talk show. In 1988, he transitioned to WLUP-FM. Read his official bio here.
iHeartMedia Names Jeff Cage to Region SVP of Programming Position. Programmer Jeff Cage is promoted to region SVP of programming for iHeartMedia’s St. Louis Region that
includes more than 33 stations in Missouri and Iowa, including legendary Des Moines news/talk outlet WHO-AM. comprised of music, talk and news formats. Cage is now responsible for spearheading programming, promotions, and digital strategies for radio brands in St. Louis and Springfield, Missouri as well as Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport, Iowa. He’ll also serve as SVP of programming for the Des Moines market and program director for CHR KKDM-FM “107.5 KISS FM.” Cage arrives from iHeartMedia Little Rock where he spent 15 years and recently served as the program director for CHR KHKN “HOT 94.9” and rock KDJE “100.3 The Edge.”
Portland’s ‘860 The Answer’ Debuts New Weekend Shows. KPAM, Portland “860 The Answer” announces the addition of three new weekend programs to its lineup. Two food
-oriented, one-hour shows are airing back-to-back on Saturdays – “BBQ Nation” and “Grilling at the Green” – both hosted by renowned food expert and television personality Jeff Tracy. “BBQ Nation” delves into all things barbeque while “Grilling at the Green” explores the ways many people live the golfing lifestyle via the stories, lives, and kitchens of those who love and live the sport. Also airing on Saturdays is the new, two-hour “Around the House with Eric G.” starring Portland radio personality and home improvement expert Eric Goranson. KPAM is operated by Salem Media Group.
TALKERS News Notes. Chicago all-news outlet WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM “Newsradio 780 and
105.9 FM” is honored with nine 2018 Illinois Associated Press Broadcasters Association Contest awards. They were bestowed at the Spring Convention of the Illinois News Broadcasters Association in Normal on April 13. The Entercom station was honored for: Outstanding News Operation; Best Spot News – First Place for “No Mercy”; Best Spot News – Second Place for “The Jason Van Dyke Verdict”; Best Sports Report – Second Place, George Ofman for “Rocky Wirtz”; Best Hard News Feature – First Place, Mike Krauser for “Cat Rescue”; Best Digital Presence – First Place; Best Newswriter – First Place, Mark Friedman; Best Reporter – Second Place, Lisa Fielding; and Best Newscast – First Place…..iHeartMedia Pittsburgh announces it has extended its broadcast agreement with the Pittsburgh Steelers through the 2023 NFL season. The Steelers Radio Network is originating from rock WDVE and sports talk WBGG- 970 AM & 106.3 FM, with additional promotional support across all six iHeartMedia Pittsburgh stations and websites. The partnership also includes Steelers Nation Radio, broadcasting 24 hours of Steelers programming on WDVE-HD2, iHeartRadio, Steelers.com, and the Steelers Official Mobile App. The station will debut several new Steelers programs, including the “The Point After” – a weekly wrap-up program featuring the Steelers radio broadcast team, as well as “The Steelers Preview Show” airing on Thursday nights.
Release of Mueller Report, Southern Border Crisis/Barr’s No Bail for Asylum Seekers, 2020 Presidential Politics, Search for Columbine-Infatuated Teen, North Korea Weapons Test, Notre Dame Fire, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/17). The anticipation of today’s release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report; the migrant situation at the Southern border and Attorney General William Barr’s no bail for asylum seekers decision; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and Trump’s criticism of CNN’s Town Hall with Bernie Sanders; the end of the search for the armed, Columbine-infatuated teenager; North Korea resumes weapons testing; the aftermath of the Notre Dame fire; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Signing a new contract with Beasley Media Group’s classic rock WMGK, Philadelphia is afternoon drive personality Andre Gardner. He is celebrating his 17th anniversary with the station this month. WMGK program director and company rock format brand manager Bill Weston says, “Andre Gardner is king of the DJ hill in Philly. No one brings more passion or runs a tighter board with a pervasive knowledge of music. WMGK has benefited from his talents for 17 years. I am so happy we’re continuing Andre’s nearly two-decade run of success.”
March 2019 PPM Data – Round Two. March 2019 ratings information has been released for Washington (D.C.), Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 survey period covered February 28 – March 27. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets below.
Washington, DC
Spoken-Word Formats – For the third month in a row, WMAL sets a record for its best 6+
-stat (6.8) in the PPM-era and continues in fourth-place. Moreover, the Cumulus Media news/talk outlet is a collective +2.5 via three straight upticks (4.3 – 5.7 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+). After posting a .2 (6+) in August 2018, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted for the eighth sweep in succession.
Regaining the one-tenth it lost in February (3.1 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” carries on as part of a three-way tie at #13. Its “Holiday” 2018 increase of two-tenths followed four consecutive down or flat trends that accounted for a collective loss of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+). By gaining two-tenths to .7 (#25 to #23, 6+), Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team” concludes at three a consecutive string of setbacks that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (.9 – .8 – .6 – .5, 6+).
While off a combined seven-tenths in February/March (10.4 – 9.8 – 9.7, 6+), Hubbard all
-news WTOP is #1 for the third month in a row. January 2019’s 10.4 is its best 6+-performance since March 2018 (10.4, as well). Having set the pace 11 straight ratings periods, WTOP segued to the runner-up slot in December. Even though Entercom business news outlet WDCH is flat at .4 (6+), it climbs from #27 to #25.
Entering the March sweep, American University-owned news/talk WAMU was -2.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +2.5 (January 2019); and -1.2 in February. “The Mind Is Our Medium” gains three-tenths in March (8.6 – 8.9, 6+) and is unchanged in second-place. Immediately prior to “Holiday” 2018, WAMU was an overall +1.9 via five straight increases (7.6 – 8.0 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 9.0 – 9.5, 6+).
Washington, DC Music Formats – Through six straight spikes (6.4 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.4 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2, 6+), Radio One-owned urban AC WMMJ “Majic” is an overall +1.8 and is in third-place for the fourth time in a row. Format rival – Howard University’s WHUR – repeats at #5 but drops one-tenth to 6.4 (6+), thus curtailing three successive upticks that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 6.2 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+). An overall -1.4 through four straight September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018 declines (4.9 – 4.5 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+), Atlantic Gateway Communications’ contemporary Christian WGTS “91.9 Christian Music Radio” bounces back with three straight improvements netting a +1.1 (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 4.6, eighth to sixth, 6+). After being a combined +5.6 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.8 – 7.3 – 10.4, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “97.1 Washington’s Variety of the ‘80s ‘90s and Today” sputtered by -6.1 (January); rebounded with a +.7 (February); but regresses by -.6 in March (5.0 – 4.4, sixth to seventh, 6+). Surrendering in its entirety February’s +.6 with a March -.6 (3.5 – 4.1 – 3.5, 6+), Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX slips from seventh to ninth. “Mix 107.3” was a collective -1.3 through three consecutive losses (4.8 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+). The sale of WRQX to Educational Media Foundation is expected to close later this year and the station will flip to contemporary Christian. In addition to WASH and WRQX, iHeartMedia-owned WBIG “Big 100 – Washington’s Classic Rock Station” falters by six-tenths as well (3.9 – 3.3, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #11). Steady at #8 after February’s +.8, Radio One urban contemporary WKYS (3.9 – 3.8, -.1, 6+), is within three-share range (6+) for the 24th straight time. The last time WKYS wasn’t between 3.0 – 3.9 (6+) was in May 2017 (2.9.
Boston
Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of two-tenths elevates iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO from
#17 to #14. In three straight positive or flat trends, “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” is up three-tenths (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+); November 2018’s 3.2 is its best 6+-stat in more than four years (3.3, November 2014).
The key station of the Super Bowl champion New England 
Patriots, as well as the Celtics and Bruins, Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub,” is unchanged from February in 6+ share (6.4) and market rank (#3). “The Sports Hub” previously was +.4 (September 2018); +.9 (October); +.8 (November); -1.0 (December); +.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January 2019); and -.8 (February).
Meanwhile, Entercom-owned WEEI-FM has been -.5 (September 2018); +.5 (October); +.6 (November); -2.0 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.7 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); and now -.5 in March (3.7 – 3.2, 6+). The flagship of the 2018 World Series champion Boston Red Sox departs the top ten (#9 to #11).
A combined +1.3 in January/February (4.3 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” relinquishes half (-.6) that increase in March (5.0, fifth to sixth, 6+).
The rollercoaster ride continues for Boston University news/talker WBUR, which was -1.5 through five consecutive down or flat August through “Holiday” 2018 ratings periods (5.7 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.1 – 4.2, 6+); +1.5 (January); and now -1.6 in February/March (5.7 – 4.6 – 4.1, seventh to eighth, 6+). Off by one-half share in March as well is WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH (2.7 – 2.2, #15 to #18, 6+).
Boston Music Formats – Not only is Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR an overall +2.2 through three positive spikes in succession (5.6 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.8, 6+), “105.7 – 80s & More” advances from second to first. Ousted from the top spot after January and February stays there is iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which returns February’s +.1 (7.3 – 7.4 – 7.3, first to second, 6+). February’s 7.4 is the highest 6+-showing since August 2018’s 7.8 for “Kiss,” which was #1 from January 2018 through November 2018. Within 3.0 – 3.8 (6+) range in each of the last eight survey periods (3.0 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.2), Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT busts out a +.8 to 4.0, its highest 6+-share since July 2018’s 4.1 as “Hot 96.9” enters the top ten (#13 to #9). Frozen on 5.3 (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, and February 2019 following December’s 6.0 (6+), iHeartMedia-owned WZLX “100.7 Boston’s Classic Rock” dials up a March +.7 and is back at 6.0 (sixth to fifth, 6+). Co-owned WBWL “101.7 The Bull Boston’s #1 For New Hit Country,” is up one-tenth to 1.9 (#18 to #20, 6+), pulling the plug on four straight sweeps without an increase for a -.3 (2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+). Its format foe – Beasley Media Group’s WKLB “Country 102.5” – nets seven-tenths in three consecutive gains (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+) and jumps from ninth to seventh. January’s +.1 ended seven successive down or flat reports that accounted for a combined loss of -1.2 (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+). Improving by one-half share in March as well is Northeast Broadcasting triple A WXRV “Independent Radio 92.5 The River” (1.8 – 2.3, #18 to #16, 6+), which reaches the two-share level (6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 2.0. On the heels of posting a February gain of one-half share, iHeartMedia urban AC WKAF “97.7 Boston’s #1 For R&B” surrenders eight-tenths (3.4 – 2.6, #11 to #13, 6+). February’s 3.4 is its best 6+-performance since appearing in print in January 2017. Off by one-half share (each) are Beasley Media Group’s WBOS (2.8, flat at #12, 6+) and iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WJMN “Jam’n 94.5” (2.8 – 2.3, #14 to #16, 6+). After being “Alt 92.9 Boston’s Alternative,” WBOS became “Boston’s Rock 92.9” last Thursday (4/11). The station was a collective +1.0 in January/February (2.3 – 2.7 – 3.3, 6+) and reached the three-share level (6+) for the first time since August 2016.
Miami
English-Language Spoken-Word Formats – Locked on 2.4 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD adds one-tenth to 2.5 (#19 to #18, 6+). “News Radio 620 –
Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” was a combined -.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 but recaptured two-tenths in January.
Tied at #27 are Entercom’s WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (flat at 
.7, #26 to #27, 6+) and co-owned WQAM “Sports Radio 560” (.5 – .7, +.2, #29 to #27, 6+). Before picking up one-tenth in February, “The Ticket” was down or flat three successive reports for a loss of three-tenths (.9 – .6 – .6 – .6, 6+). By gaining two-tenths in March, WQAM halts three consecutive sweeps without an increase that led to a loss of four-tenths (.9 – .9 – .6 – .5, 6+).
Following January’s seven-tenths’ improvement, Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN lost two-tenths in February but regains one-tenth (2.3 – 2.1 – 2.2, flat at #20, 6+).
Miami Music Formats – Powered by an increase of eight-tenths – completely erasing its February decline of that magnitude (7.4 – 6.6 – 7.4, 6) – Cox Media Group-owned WFEZ “Easy 93.1” breaks February’s three-way logjam at #1 and has sole bragging rights of the top spot. Dislodged from their share of the lead are co-owned urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” (-.2, first to second, 6+) and Entercom adult contemporary WLYF “101.5 Lite FM” (6.6 – 6.2, -.4, first to third, 6+). Entering the “Holiday” 2018 sweep, “Easy 93.1” finished on top seven straight times. Adult contemporary outlets “Easy” and “Lite” traded places with each other in January, as WFEZ went from second to first and WLYF segued from first to second. An overall +1.9 through three positive spikes in succession (5.4 – 5.7 – 6.2 – 7.3, 6+), “Lite FM” notched its best 6+-stat (7.3 in “Holiday” 2018) since January 2018’s 7.4. Thus, for the 11th straight ratings period, an adult contemporary controls or has a share of Miami’s lead position (6+). February marked the first time at #1 for “Hot” since May 2018, when it logged a 7.5 (6+). It currently is in an alternating up/down pattern that began in August 2018: 6.1 – 6.2 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 5.9 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.4 (6+). One of the market’s mainstream CHRs gains one-tenth while the other drops one-tenth; the two rivals are separated by three-tenths of a share (6+). Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which was without an increase the past five sweeps for a collective loss of nine-tenths (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.5, 6+) applies the brakes with a +.1 to 2.6 (unchanged at #17, 6+), while Cox Media Group’s WFLC “Hits 97.3” is -.1 to 2.9 (flat at #14, 6+). Prior to slipping to 2.9 (6+) in March, WFLC had been within 3.0 – 3.7 range (6+) in each of the last 15 survey periods. In the market’s urban contemporary contest, Cox Media Group’s WEDR “99 Jamz” has a “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline of 4.5 – 5.2 – 4.7 – 4.5 (6+) and remains in ninth-place, while iHeartMedia-owned WMIB “103.5 The Beat” regains the two-tenths it lost in February (2.9 – 2.7 – 2.9, #16 to #14, 6+).
Seattle
Spoken-Word Formats – There are three parallel stories among this market’s news/talk
outlets. After its January/February combined +1.0 (4.9 – 5.6 – 5.9, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM plunges by -1.1 to 4.8 (third to fourth, 6+). In a similar vein, co-owned KTTH “Conservative 
Talk Radio” erases a January/February increase of six-tenths (1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+) with a March decrease of seven-tenths (1.4, #21 to #22, 6+); a December/“Holiday” 2018 mini-slide resulted in slicing in half (-1.5) its 6+-share (3.0 – 2.1 – 1.5, 6+). Meanwhile, Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570,” which
wiped away its December/“Holiday” 2018 loss of four-tenths (1.3 – 1.2 – .9, 6+) with a January/February +.7 (.9 – 1.4 – 1.6, 6+), forfeits three-tenths to 1.3 (#23 to #24, 6+).
With a more positive story, Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “ESPN 710,” down roughly 50% (-2.0) in four consecutive declines (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.0 – 2.1, 6+), answers 
by making up 40% of that deficit with a +.8 to 2.9 (6+) as the Mariners’ flagship returns to the top twenty (#21 to #17). Regaining two-thirds of February’s -.6 (1.0 – 1.4, +.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM progresses from #24 to #22. “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” was down a collective four-tenths in December/“Holiday” 2018 (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.0, 6+), following four consecutive up or flat sweeps that nearly tripled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share (.5 – .7 – .9 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+).
Albeit flat at #15, Sinclair Broadcast Group all-news KOMO is up seven-tenths (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+) in four straight reports without a loss.
A combined +2.1 in January/February (5.9 – 7.4 – 8.0, 6+), Northwest Public Radio news/talk KUOW hands over roughly half that increase (8.0 – 6.9, -1.1, 6+) but is #1 for the third month in a row. In the runner-up slot in December and “Holiday” 2018, KUOW was on top in September 2018.
Seattle Music Formats – Within 2.2 – 2.9 range (6+) from October 2018 through February 2019 (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR KBKS “106.1 Kiss FM” erupts with a gain of nine tenths to 3.2 (#19 to #14), its strongest 6+-showing since September 2018 (3.2, as well). A collective +1.1 in four straight upticks (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8, 6+), co-owned KZOK advances from fifth to fourth. Immediately in advance of this streak, “102.5 Seattle’s Classic Rock Station” was -1.6 in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 3.7, 6+). After surrendering a combined January/February -7.2 (11.2 – 4.8 – 4.0, 6+), Hubbard adult contemporary KRWM “Warm 106.9” rebounds with a gain of eight-tenths to 4.8 (6+), leaping from ninth to fourth. Entering the January sweep, “Warm” more than tripled (+7.8) its 6+-share as the result of three straight improvements (3.4 – 4.1 – 8.8 – 11.2, 6+) and was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018. Four-tenths ahead of “Warm” is Entercom adult contemporary KSWD “94.1 The Sound,” which is an overall +1.5 via three consecutive positive spikes (3.7 – 3.8 – 5.1 – 5.2, fourth to third, 6+). September 2018 marked the first time that “The Sound” overtook “Warm” since KSWD’s format shift from country (KMPS) approximately 16 months ago. As the result of six successive months (May 2018 through November 2018) without a loss (3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+), KSWD was +1.7. The June 2018 through February 2019 topline for iHeartMedia adult hits KJAQ has remained in 3.3 – 3.9 (6+) territory, but “96.5 Jack FM Playing What We Want” logs a March increase of six-tenths to 4.0, its best 6+-stat since May 2018 (4.0, as well). Furthermore, Seattle’s version of “Jack” cracks the top ten (#13 to #10). Owing to four successive sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.3, 6+), Hubbard’s KNUC is a collective +1.2 as “New Country 98.9 The Bull” jumps from #17 to #12. A dip of eight-tenths (3.5 – 2.7, 6+) plummets KNKX “Your Connection To Jazz, Blues, and NPR News” from #12 to #18. Not only is Sinclair Broadcast Group hot AC KPLZ off by -2.0 in three straight downturns (5.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1, #11 to #15, 6+), “Star 101.5 Today’s Best Mix” has its lowest 6+-stat (3.1) since May 2017’s 3.0. Following February’s +.9, Classic Radio, Inc.-owned KING “98.1 Listener-Supported Classical Music” returns roughly half that increase and departs the top twenty (2.9 – 2.4, -.5, #16 to #21, 6+). Its October 2018 through January 2019 topline was a consistent 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 2.0 (6+).
Detroit
Spoken-Word Formats – Following January’s increase of seven-tenths, Cumulus Media’s
WJR “News Talk 760” lost two-tenths in February and is flat in March (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), backsliding from #13 to #14.
Unchanged as well in 6+-share is Entercom sports talk WXYT-FM“97.1 The Ticket,” which repeats February’s 5.0 and eighth-place finish (6+). The Pistons, Red Wings, and Tigers flagship was -1.3 in “Holiday” 2018 and +.6 in January 2019.
In an odd turn-of-events, co-owned WWJ was a combined +1.6 in January/February (6.1 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+), yet had to segue from first to second whereas in March, its loss of eight-tenths to 6.9 (6+) is sufficient to boost “News Radio 950” from second to first.
This marks the third sweep in a row that Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM makes a fluctuation of three-tenths (1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.3, #19 to #21, 6+). Despite being down one-tenth (1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Wayne State University news/talk WDET advances from #21 to #20.
Detroit Music Formats – It’s big news that the familiar WLLZ call letters from the 1980s and 1990s resurface in the Motor City. This time, it is at iHeartMedia where alternative WDTW “Alt 106.7” became classic rock WLLZ “106.7 Detroit’s Wheels” last month. In its first monthly report, “Wheels” more than doubles (+1.9) the 6+-share on that frequency this time last month (1.5 – 3.4, 6+), popping on at #15, compared to WDTW’s February #21. The station it is targeting – Beasley Media Group-owned WCSX “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” – sputters by -1.3 (7.8 – 6.5, 6+) and shifts from first to second. That spiral follows back-to-back spikes of nine-tenths (6.0 – 6.9 – 7.8, 6+). January’s +.9 erased half of December/“Holiday” 2018’s -1.8 (7.8 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+). WCSX spent four straight months at #1 before being dislodged in September by Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC “104.3 Detroit’s Greatest Hits.” Flat at #6, the latter is a combined +.8 in three consecutive sweeps without a loss (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). Albeit unchanged at #12, WOMC’s adult contemporary sibling WDZH “98.7 The Breeze” logs its fifth successive report without a loss for an overall +1.7 (2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.0, 6+). WDZH transitioned from CHR “Amp Radio” to adult contemporary “The Breeze” in early-November (2018). Incumbent AC, iHeartMedia’s WNIC “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today,” has spiraled by -11.7 over the past three sweeps (17.9 – 7.1 – 6.6 – 6.2, 6+) yet remains at #3. Its 17.9 in “Holiday” 2018 is by far the largest 6+ AQH share by any Detroit station in the PPM-era. Via four straight increases, WNIC more than tripled (+12.2) its 6+-share (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.6 – 12.2 – 17.9, 6+) and was #1 in December 2018 and “Holiday” 2018. Locked on 3.2 (6+) in January and February after “Holiday” 2018’s 3.6 (6+), urban contemporary cluster-mate WJLB “97.9 Detroit’s Hip-Hop and R&B” explodes with a +.9 to 4.1 (#14 to #11, 6+), its best 6+-showing since 4.4 in September 2017. Trending 5.4 – 5.6 – 5.5 (6+), co-owned urban AC WMXD “Mix 92.3 Detroit’s R&B and Throwbacks” adds one-half share to 6.0 (fifth to fourth, 6+). After Entercom-owned WYCD “99.5 – Detroit Country Music” and Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WDRQ “93.1 Nash FM” each regressed by six-tenths in February, the former is up four-tenths (4.7 – 5.1, ninth to seventh, 6+) and the latter gains three-tenths (1.6 – 1.9, steady at #19, 6+). Faltering by -1.0 (5.9 – 4.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WRIF “Rocks Detroit” drifts from fourth to ninth. Up nine-tenths in January/February (1.8 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), Detroit Classical & Jazz Educational Radio’s WRCJ “90.9 Classical Days/Jazzy Nights” surrenders seven-tenths to 2.0 (#17 to #18, 6+).
Phoenix
Spoken-Word Formats – Stuck on 3.4 (6+) in January and February, Bonneville news/talk
KTAR-FM dials up a +.7 to 4.1 (6+) and vaults back into the top ten (#11 to #8). Despite dropping three-tenths (2.9 – 2.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550 carries on at #18.
After relinquishing two-tenths in February (2.2 – 2.0, 6+), 
Bonneville sports talk/Phoenix Suns, Arizona Coyotes, and Arizona Diamondbacks flagship KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” posts a gain of three-tenths to 2.3 (6+) and continues at #22.
A combined +1.1 in January/February (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+), Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ is off one-tenth to 3.5 (6+) and departs the top ten #9 to #12, 6+).
Phoenix Music Formats – As a result of four straight sweeps without a loss, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KOMR “Amor 106.3” has more than doubled (+1.4) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.7, 6+) and cracks the top twenty (#17). Likewise, iHeartMedia regional Mexican KOY “El Patron” exactly doubles (+.7) its 6+-figure from a month ago (.7 – 1.4, #27, 6+) and has more than quadrupled its (6+) January showing. As a result of three successive advances (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Farmworker Educational Radio’s similarly-formatted KNAI “101.9 La Campesina” is up a collective nine-tenths, climbing from #12 to #11. Another regional Mexican outlet – Univision Radio’s KHOT “Que Buena 105.9” – displays a March gain of one-half share as well (2.5 – 3.0, #19 to #15, 6+). The latest shifts by iHeartMedia adult hits KYOT are -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January/February); and now -.8 in March (6.7 – 5.9, 6+). Nonetheless, “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” repeats at #1. As a result of three significant drops in succession, adult contemporary cluster-mate KESZ is an overall -9.7 (15.0 – 7.0 – 6.3 – 5.3, 6+). It continues in the runner-up slot, following five straight times at #1. January’s loss suspended four positive increases in a row that netted +8.9 (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.9 – 9.7 – 15.0, 6+), with 15.0 its highest 6+-showing since 16.4 in “Holiday” 2017. The last time KESZ fell below a six-share (6+) was in September 2017 (5.8). It is tied with Hubbard’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” (5.3, -.1, fourth to second, 6+), which sputtered in February by -1.1 to 5.4, its weakest 6+-stat in just over two years (5.4, as well in January 2017). Regressing by six-tenths (each) are iHeartMedia’s KNIX “102.5 Today’s Best Country” (4.5, flat at #6, 6+) and Entercom classic hits-oldies KOOL “94.5 Phoenix Classic Hits” (4.6 – 4.0, eighth to ninth, 6+). Entering the March sweep, KNIX gained one-half share via five consecutive survey periods without a loss (4.6 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+). Up eight-tenths in January/February (2.2 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+), Riviera Broadcasting hot AC KMVA “Hot” forfeits one-half share to 2.5 (#15 to #20, 6+); February’s 3.0 is its best 6+-showing since September 2018’s 3.1. Fading from #13 to #18, Entravision Spanish adult hits KVVA “92.7 La Suavecita” drops one-half share as well (3.1 – 2.6, 6+).
Minneapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Immediately after gaining eight-tenths in January/February to end six straight down or flat moves accounting for an overall -1.2 (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.8 –
3.2, 6+), Entercom-owned Timberwolves and Twins flagship WCCO “News Radio 830” forfeits seven-tenths (4.0 – 3.3, #11 to #12, 6+). It is one-tenth ahead of Hubbard news/talk KTMY, which had been +1.2 in 
January/February (2.2 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+) but “My Talk 107.1” slips two-tenths to 3.2; even so, KTMY moves up from #14 to #13. Frozen on 3.3 (6+) in January and February, iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” falters by one-half share to 2.8 (#15 to #16, 6+).
Four setbacks in succession by KTLK cluster-mate KFXN accounted for a -2.3 (6.7 – 5.7 – 5.6
– 4.9 – 4.4, 6+), but “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” bounces back with a +.4 to 4.8 (ninth to eighth, 6+). Prior to November, the flagship of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Wild logged four consecutive increases that yielded a +3.0 (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.9 – 6.5 – 6.7, 6+). Unchanged from January and February in 6+ market share (.7), Hubbard sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” moves from #25 to #24.
In a down/up sequence (4.2 – 4.0 – 5.0 – 4.3 – 4.7, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW inches up from tenth to ninth.
Minneapolis Music Formats – The Twin Cities’ (6+) hot AC share escalated by +3.1 (January); deflated by -1.3 (February); and now improves by +.8 in March. To be more specific, Hubbard’s KSTP-FM “KS-95” was +1.9 in January, regressed by -.8 in February but is +.6 in March (6.4 – 7.0, second to a first-place tie, 6+). Having held the lead position seven straight times before being ousted in August, KSTP-FM returned to #1 in October and November. Meanwhile iHeartMedia-owned/similarly formatted KTCZ “Cities 97.1” was +1.2 (January) -.5 (February); and now +.2 in March (4.0 – 4.2, level at #11, 6+). “Cities 97.1” spiraled by nine-tenths in “Holiday” 2018 to 3.3, its lowest 6+-performance since April 2018 (3.3, as well). Sharing the top spot with KSTP-FM is iHeartMedia mainstream CHR KDWB “101.3 The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station,” which repeats February’s 7.0, its best 6+-stat since September 2018’s 7.2. KDWB progressed from third to first in February with a gain of seven-tenths. In addition to “KS-95,” Cumulus Media adult contemporary WGVX “Love 105 FM” also notches a gain of six-tenths (to 1.8, #22 to #20, 6+), erasing January/February’s -.6 (1.8 – 1.3 – 1.2, 6+). Owing to four successive improvements (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Northern Lights Broadcasting rhythmic CHR KZGO “Go Radio – Modern Minnesota Music” is an overall +1.2 and climbs from #16 to #14. Without a loss six times in a row for a collective +1.1 (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio classical outlet KSJN falters by nine-tenths in February/March (3.1 – 2.9 – 2.2, flat at #17, 6+). As a result of dropping one-half share, Entercom country outlet KMNB “102.9 The Wolf” falls below a three-share (3.4 – 2.9, #13 to #15, 6+).
San Diego
Spoken-Word Formats – A March gain of two-tenths by iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO slices
February’s -.4 in half (4.4 – 4.0 – 4.2, tenth to ninth, 6+). January’s one-half share increase curtailed three straight down or flat trends that accounted for a collective loss of eight-tenths (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 
3.9, 6+). Despite being a collective +.8 via three upticks in succession (1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.4, 6+), Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760” backslides from a tie at #18 to #19. Without an increase the past five San Diego sweeps for a loss of six-tenths (1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+), iHeartMedia Los Angeles’ similarly-formatted KFI “AM 640” picks up one-tenth to 1.2 (#24 to #22, 6+).
In the market’s sports talk contest, Entercom-owned/San Diego Padres flagship KWFN “97.3 The Fan” regains half (+.2) of February’s -.4 (1.1 – .7 – .9, #26 to #23, 6+), while iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” is up one-tenth (.4 – .5, flat at #27, 6+). Notwithstanding that Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM was +.7 through four consecutive up or flat trends (.9 – .9 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6, #21, 6+) with 1.6 its best 6+-performance since February 2018 (1.6, as well), “The Mighty 1090” has gone silent.
On top for the third month in a row, KPBS posts its third straight gain for a +2.6 (5.1 – 7.2 – 7.5 – 7.7, 6+). The San Diego State University-owned news/talk outlet was a combined -1.7 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (6.8 – 6.2 – 5.1, 6+).
San Diego Music Formats – Three down or flat moves in a row by Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLQV accounted for a collective loss of nine-tenths (2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.0, 6+), but “Amor 102.9” answers with a March gain of eight-tenths to 2.8 (#18 to #15, 6+). Leaping by eight-tenths as well is Local Media San Diego-programmed urban-rhythmic oldies XHRM “Magic 92.5, The Beat of San Diego” which is +1.3 in three consecutive improvements (4.6 – 4.8 – 5.1 – 5.9, fifth to second, 6+). In four straight downturns (6.6 – 6.0 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned CHR KHTS was a cumulative -2.3, but “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” rebounds with a half-share spike to 4.8 (eighth to seventh, 6+). By dropping seven-tenths (4.8 – 4.1, 6+), hot AC cluster-mate KMYI “Star 94.1” slides from sixth to tenth. An overall +2.2 through three consecutive improvements (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.9, 6+), co-owned KGB relinquishes six-tenths to 5.3 (third to fourth, 6+). In February, “San Diego’s Classic Rock” reached the five-share level (5.9, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 5.1. Owing to three straight upticks, Entercom-owned KSON was +1.9 (4.2 – 4.3 – 5.4 – 6.1, 6+), but “103.7 San Diego’s #1 New Country” is off three-tenths in March to 5.8 (second to third, 6+). A February improvement of six-tenths by classic hits-oldies XPRS-FM “105.7 Max FM” (.7 – 1.3, 6+) followed a “Holiday” 2018/January 2019 -1.7 (2.4 – 1.2 – .7, 6+). It is somewhat of a non-issue that “Max” drops one-half share in March (1.3 – .8, #22 to #26, 6+) though, as the station has gone silent.
Tampa
Spoken-Word Formats – As a result of three gains in succession (3.1 – 3.6 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” is +1.4 as the flagship of the Tampa Lightning moves from ninth to seventh. Stuck on 2.9 (6+) in January and 
February, Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” adds two-tenths to 3.1 (6+) and carries on at #15. A January gain of three-tenths suspended three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a -1.0 (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 2.6, 6+).
After being up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” is a combined -.6 in February/March (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.7, #17 to #19, 6+).
The “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline for University of South Florida news/talk WUSF is: 1.7 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 1.9 (#17 – #18, 6+).
Tampa Music Formats – The only station in the 24 PPM-markets we’ve highlighted thus far making a February 2019 – March 2019 (6+) increase of at least two full-shares is Cox Media Group-owned WXGL “107.3 The Eagle – Tampa Bay’s Classic Hits” (7.5, +2.1, third to second, 6+). In five successive sweeps without an increase prior to the March report, “The Eagle” was an overall -1.5 (6.9 – 6.6 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). The last time WXGL reached the seven-share level (6+) was in August 2018 (7.1). Right behind it in third-place is Beasley Media Group’s similarly-programmed WRBQ “Q-105 Tampa Bay’s Hits of the ‘80s & More,” which busts out a robust +1.2 (4.9 – 6.1, sixth to third, 6+); “Q-105” last reached the six-share threshold (6+) in September 2018 (6.2). Up or flat the fifth successive sweep for a +1.1 (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned urban contemporary WBTP “95.7 The Beat” advances from tenth to eighth. Through four straight October 2018 through January 2019 increases, Cox Media Group adult contemporary WWRM was a +1.0 (4.9 – 5.1 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.9, 6+), but “Magic 94.9 – Tampa Bay’s Best Music” dropped six-tenths in February. It wipes away that deficit completely though with a March +.6 (5.3 – 5.9, 6+) and continues in fourth-place. There’s good news/bad news for its adult contemporary cluster-mate, WDUV. On the plus side, it is #1 for a truly staggering 80th successive ratings period; however, WDUV “Lite Favorites” is a cumulative -3.1 in three consecutive dips (13.7 – 11.8 – 11.6 10.6, 6+). Its January decrease suspended three straight gains that netted +4.8 (8.9 – 9.7 – 10.8 – 13.7, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 13.7 is the highest 6+-stat for any Tampa station since WDUV’s 14.9 in “Holiday” 2015. Via seven successive sweeps without a loss (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WMTX was an overall +2.3, but “Mix 100.7” forfeits approximately half that increase with a -1.2 to 4.0 (fifth to ninth, 6+). A combined +1.5 in January/February (4.9 – 5.5 – 6.4, 6+), Beasley Media Group country WQYK “99.5 QYK” surrenders eight-tenths to 5.6 (second to fifth, 6+). Three losses in a row just before that resulted in a -1.8 (6.7 – 5.8 – 5.5 – 4.9, 6+).
Denver
Spoken-Word Formats – The flagship of the Colorado Rockies – iHeartMedia news/talk
KOA “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” is unchanged from February in 6+-share (4.7) and 6+-rank (seventh). Co-owned news/talk KHOW has a “Holiday” 2018 through March 2019 topline of 1.1 – 1.4 – 
1.4 – 1.1 (#24 to #25, 6+). Before improving by three-tenths in January, “Talk Radio 630” was off a collective seven-tenths in three successive reports without an increase (1.8 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.1, 6+).
Shifting from #13 to #17, Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” is a combined -1.2 in February/March (4.1 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+). “The Fan” was an overall +1.9 (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+) followed by -1.2 December/“Holiday” 2018; +.9 (January 2019); and -.8 (February). The December 2018 through March 2019 topline for KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” is .3 – .4 – .5 – .3 – .4 (6+); the flagship of the Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche bumps up from #29 to #27.
The only station in the 24 PPM-markets we’ve highlighted thus far making a February 2019 – March 2019 (6+) decrease of at least two full-shares is KCFR (7.6 – 5.6, -2.0, first to third, 6+). The Colorado Public Radio news/talk facility was a combined +1.2 in January/February (6.4 – 7.1 – 7.6, 6+) and was on top in September 2018, October, and November before segueing to #2 in December. Trending 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.8, (“Holiday” 2018 – January 2019 – February – March, 6+), Community Radio for Northern Colorado news/talk KUNC enters the top twenty (#22 to #19.
Denver Music Formats – The three most recent fluctuations for KSE Radio Ventures’ classic hits-oldies KXKL are +1.2 (January); -.6 (February); and now +1.2 in March (5.1 – 6.3, 6+) as “Kool 105 – Denver’s Greatest Hits” leaps from third to first. Not only is iHeartMedia CHR KPTT a combined +1.6 in back-to-back sweeps, (2.6 – 3.2 – 4.2, 6+), “95.7 The Party – Denver’s #1 Hit Music Station” breaks into the top ten (#15 to #10). February’s +.6 ended three straight setbacks that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+). Up by a total of nine-tenths in three straight up or flat trends (2.9 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom rhythmic CHR KQKS “KS-107.5” proceeds from #17 to #13. A combined January/February -8.2 (12.8 – 5.3 – 4.6, 6+), Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” answers with a March increase of seven-tenths to 5.3 (6+), vaulting from ninth to fourth. In three straight sweeps without a loss, KOSI totaled an overall +7.9 (4.9 – 4.9 – 7.6 – 12.8, 6+) and was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018 (with a 12.8, 6+). The last time any Denver station reached the 12-share level (6+) was more than four years ago (KOSI, 12.4, “Holiday” 2014). In addition to KOSI, country cluster-mate KYGO advances by seven-tenths as well and is +1.4 as a result of three positive spikes in succession (4.3 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.7, fourth to second, 6+). Replicating February’s +.6 (4.0 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KRFX “Classic Rock 103.5 The Fox” jumps from ninth to fifth. Recent moves by Entercom hot AC KALC “Alice 105.9” come in increments of seven-tenths. It gained seven-tenths in February (4.0 – 4.7, 6+) but is down seven-tenths in March (4.7 – 4.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#7 to #11). That +.7 in February pulled the plug on three straight downturns that were responsible for a loss of … seven-tenths (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+). A decrease of one-half share (2.1 – 1.6, 6+) sends Colorado Public Radio classical KVOD out of the top twenty (#18 to #22). After being an overall +1.3 in five successive increases (4.1 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative KTCL “Channel 93-3 Denver’s Modern Rock” falters by three-tenths to 5.1 (second to sixth, 6+). February’s 5.4 is its highest 6+-stat in nearly two years (5.5, April 2017).
Baltimore
Spoken-Word Formats – Independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking
News” is down three-tenths (3.4 – 3.1, 6+) but stays at #11, while Hearst Television news/talk WBAL “News Radio – Expect More” is off one-tenth (2.8 – 2.7, 6+) and carries on at #13. Doubling (+.3) its 
6+ Baltimore stat in four straight up or flat sweeps (.3 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .6, 6+), Cumulus Media Washington, DC news/talk WMAL moves from #27 to #26.
Unchanged at #10, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” is -1.0 in three slips in a row (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+), after being a combined +.8 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (4.1 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+).
Co-owned business news WDCH, which more than doubled (+.7) its 6+ Baltimore stat between December 2018 and February 2019 (.6 – .7 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+) forfeits four-tenths to .9 (6+) and exits the top twenty (#19 to #21).
A combined +1.1 in January/February (2.3 – 3.1 – 3.4 (6+), Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” surrenders roughly half that gain in March (2.9, -.5, #11 to #12, 6+). Even though American University-owned news/talk WAMU gains one-tenth (1.4 to 1.5, 6+), it backslides from #16 to #17.
Baltimore Music Formats – Over and above logging a March improvement of seven-tenths (7.6 – 8.3, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WERQ “92 Q Jams” repeats at #1. Its January +1.0 halted three consecutive declines that resulted in a -1.2 (7.9 – 7.7 – 7.0 – 6.7, 6+). Entercom gospel WLIF-HD2 is up one-half share (1.4 – 1.9, #17 to #16, 6+). Meanwhile, unchanged at #3, adult contemporary WLIF-FM is trending 6.5 – 6.6 – 6.4 (6+), after “Holiday” 2018’s 15.2 96+). Still in that Entercom cluster, WWMX “Mix 106.5 Baltimore’s Best Mix” is without a loss the fourth time in a row for a collective +1.0 (4.2 – 4.2 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.2, steady in sixth-place, 6+). This is the third uptick in succession for iHeartMedia alternative WWDC “DC-101” for a net gain of six-tenths (1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.2, #15 to #14, 6+). A combined +1.3 in January/February (4.9 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+) after being an overall -1.2 in three straight downturns (6.1 – 5.8 – 5.4 – 4.9, 6+), Shamrock Communications’ classic rock WZBA “100.7 The Bay” drops four-tenths to 5.8 (flat at #5, 6+). This marks the eighth sweep in a row that Peter and John Radio Fellowship contemporary Christian WRBS-FM is unlisted; “95.1 Shine FM – Baltimore’s Positive Hits Station” was #13 in August 2018 (2.6, 6+).
St. Louis
Spoken-Word Formats – Anchored in seventh-place, Entercom news/talk and St. Louis
Cardinals flagship KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” is up one-tenth (5.0 – 5.1, 6+), following a February loss of six-tenths. Co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1,” which was a combined +.8 in 
January/February (1.7 – 2.2 – 2.5, 6+), falters by three-tenths to 2.2 (6+) but remains at #17.
Despite duplicating February’s loss of one-half share (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.1, 6+) Hubbard sports talk WXOS “101 Sports” carries on at #16.
On the heels of February’s +.4, University of Missouri news/talk KWMU posts a March decrease twice that magnitude (4.5 – 3.7, -.8, 6+) and drifts from the top ten (#9 to #14).
St. Louis Music Formats – The wild ride continues for Hubbard’s KSHE “95 Real Rock Radio,” which was tied with iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU for February’s lead position but KSHE has sole possession of first-place in March. Its five most recent fluctuations are +.5 (December); -.7 (Holiday” 2018); +2.0 (January 2019); -.5 (February); and now +1.3 in March (7.6 – 8.9, 6+) with 8.9 its highest 6+-share since November 2016 (8.6). Regarding aforementioned KLOU, it was +1.6 in January but is now a combined -1.1 in February/March (7.9 – 7.6 – 6.8, 6+) as “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” shifts from first to third. Following four straight down or flat trends for a collective -1.8 (4.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.7 – 3.1, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFUN “95.5 R&B For The Lou” erases all but three-tenths of the deficit with a February/March +1.5 (3.1 – 3.7 – 4.6, 6+) and rockets into the top ten (#14 to #10, 6+). Posting March increases of seven-tenths are Hubbard’s WIL “New Country 92.3” (6.1, sixth to fourth, 6+) and Entercom-owned CHR KNOU “Now 96.3 All The Hits” (3.7 – 4.4, #14 to #11, 6+). In February, WIL was down six-tenths to 5.4, its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017 (5.4, as well); “Now” recorded an increase of nine-tenths in January. WIL’s format rival – iHeartMedia’s KSD “93.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” – returns in full February’s half-share improvement (4.0 – 4.5 – 4.0, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #12). A boost of six-tenths (4.2 – 4.8, 6+) by Hubbard adult hits WARH propels “106.5 The Arch” into the top ten (#11 to #8). Following a February one-half share increase, Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” craters by -1.8 (7.0 – 5.2, fourth to sixth, 6+). Three straight up or flat tends (5.2 – 5.2 – 9.8 – 15.6, 6+) resulted in KEZK tripling (+10.4) its 6+ numbers; it spent December and “Holiday” 2018 at #1, with “Holiday” 2018’s 15.6 the strongest 6+-share by any St. Louis station in the PPM-era.
Friday, March 8, 2019
WGN, Chicago Brings Back ‘Extension 720’ with Host Justin Kaufmann. The original “Extension 720” was hosted by the late Milt Rosenberg for 40 years but was canceled by
station management in 2012. Now, the Tribune Media station announces that Justin Kaufmann will leave his role with the morning drive Steve Cochran program to take over hosting the new 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm show. Pete Zimmerman will serve as producer. WGN station manager and VP on content Todd Manley says the new show will honor the format of Rosenberg’s program with long-form interviews. Kaufmann will also “meet Chicago voices on location in the communities and neighborhoods where they live and work and will focus on a variety of topics, from arts & culture to politics and innovation.” Monday evenings will still belong to “Andrea Darlas & The Reporters” and sports play-by-play will bump the show from time to time. Kaufmann has been with WGN since joining from public media outlet WBEZ-FM in 2015. He says, “I’m honored and humbled to be at the helm of one of the best radio shows in Chicago history.”
WHO, Des Moines Goes ‘All-Female’ in Honor of International Women’s Day. In recognition of today’s International Women’s Day, iHeartMedia news/talk WHO, Des Moines is presenting a lineup of entirely female hosts. WHO’s International Women’s Day program lineup will include: Bonnie Lucas, Leila Rush, and Heather Burnside-Parizek from 1460
KXnO as hosts for “Van and Bonnie in the Morning,” with WHO personality Adrianne Branstad and WHO news director Wendy Wilde as hosts for “Need to Know with Jeff Angelo,” and WHO news anchor Sue Danielson as the host for “The Simon Conway Show.” WHO program director Michael Dorwart says, “As a company we aim to celebrate the contributions of women in music and radio year-round and on International Women’s Day we are highlighting our accomplished radio personalities even more as we support and promote gender balance in the workplace and the world.” The station adds that in addition to broadcasting 1040 WHO’s most renowned on-air personalities and hosts, the International Women’s Day programming will showcase a variety of different topics that inspire women – ranging from sports, business, and agriculture. Cristen Clark, a successful farmer and founder of agricultural website Food and Swine, will be featured on-air with several successful women in Iowa agriculture and will be joined by co-host and producer, Morgan McEnany. To end the day, 1040 WHO will also broadcast coverage of the nationally ranked University of Iowa women’s basketball team as they play their first game of the Big 10 Conference Tournament.
KYW, Philadelphia Personalities Seek Federal Mediator in Union Negotiations. A report by Philadelphia Business Journal’s Jeff Blumenthal indicates that the SAG-AFTRA-represented on-air staffers at Entercom’s all-news KYW, Philadelphia are asking for federal mediation to resolve their issues in contract negotiations with the company. As TALKERS
reported previously, SAG-AFTRA publicly called out Entercom for what it is now calling “low-balling” during negotiations for the all-news stations previously owned by CBS RADIO. Entercom responded, saying: “These discussions include contracts that had been open for 
years prior to our merger with CBS RADIO, as well as more recently expired agreements. We prefer to negotiate directly with SAG-AFTRA and our employees, not publicly, and do not intend to comment further.” Local SAG-AFTRA president Sam Clover tells the PBJ, “We’ve bargained for years with CBS RADIO and never had to take this step, but now we’re dealing with a new company who won’t compromise, so we’re reaching out for help.” Most cutting to KYW talent is the company’s desire to cut severance benefits by 50% to 90%, according to the story. Read it here.
PPM Analysis: January 2019 Pacesetters. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian looks at the January 2019 PPM survey from Nielsen Audio to see which formats/specific stations are in the lead (#1 and #2) positions in their respective markets. Interestingly, while no news/talk station finished #2 in its market, five news/talk stations ranked #1 (6+) in the market during the January survey. They were: Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta; iHeartMedia’s KFBK, Sacramento and WLW, Cincinnati; Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5”; and Cox’s WOKV-FM, Jacksonville. See the whole report here.
PodcastOne and Law & Crime Network Team Up. A new deal between PodcastOne and the Dan Abrams-founded Law & Crime will include a series of new podcasts focusing on the worlds of law and true-crime. Law & Crime is a 24/7 linear and OTT live trial network. The first podcast to debut is the self-titled “Dan Abrams Podcast,” set to release new episodes every Thursday. Abrams says, “Law & Crime is excited to expand its distribution to yet another important medium. Our partnership with PodcastOne will allow us share some amazing stories with expert legal analysis to a new audience.”
TALKERS News Notes. Boston sports media personality Kirk Minihane is the subject of a
profile piece in Boston Magazine. Last fall, Minihane refused to sign a document promising to not attack the Boston Red Sox or the Boston Globe and to “not be mean-spirited” on the radio and that led to his departure from the WEEI, Boston morning show with co-host Gerry Callahan. But, he’s still with Entercom, working on his own program emanating from the company’s RADIO.COM platform. The piece recounts Minihane’s battle with depression and how WEEI changed its morning show…..Envision Networks and the GAB Radio Network are partnering to distribute 14 of the latter’s talk programs to radio stations. GAB’s shows cover topics including news, sports, music, lifestyle, and more. GAB general manager Chuck Duncan says, “GAB Radio has become one of the premier production and distribution companies in network radio. Partnering with Envision was the natural progression to our growth strategy. Their unbridled vision and outstanding team are an extension of GAB Radio Network.”…..iHeartMedia announces Annette Geiser is promoted to SVP of sales for its Colorado Springs and Pueblo markets that include news/talk KCSJ, Pueblo. Geiser was most recently a senior account executive. Market president Jessica Farias says, “I’m excited to have Annette step up and take on this leadership role as the senior vice president of sales. Annette’s depth of knowledge in the Colorado Springs and Pueblo markets along with her deep relationships are key in leading a best-in-class sales team at iHeartMedia Colorado Springs and Pueblo.”…..Entercom sports talker WIP, Philadelphia is presenting the annual live event “SportsRadio 94WIP Birds Town Hall” – a discussion about the state of the Philadelphia Eagles led by WIP on-air personalities and featuring various NFL and Eagles experts. It’s taking place all day at MaGerks Pub & Grill in Horsham, Pennsylvania…..Podcast company Cadence13, is presenting the SXSW Podcast Stage at this year’s SXSW in Austin taking place today through March 17. The SXSW Podcast Stage presented by Cadence13 will host podcasts across a number of genres — music, film, technology, comedy, politics, and more — recorded in front of a live audience during the SXSW conference…..The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated “Dr. Daliah Wachs” show is added to the daily lineup of Spirit Broadcasting’s WINT-AM, Willoughby, Ohio (Cleveland market).
Cohen Sues Trump Organization Top News/Talk Story for Week of March 4-8, 2019. Former Trump attorney Michael Cohen’s suit against the Trump Organization and his congressional testimony about President Trump was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the U.S. House investigation into President Trump for obstruction of justice and more. Coming in at #3 was the Trump-Russia probe and the related sentencing of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort, followed by the state of the U.S.-Mexico border at #4. The Talkers TenTM 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 and Talkers.com. See this week’s entire chart here.
Morning Talk on a Classic Rock Station: Mike “Bax” Baxendale is this Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The co-host of what is pound-for-pound one of the most successful talk shows on American radio, Mike “Bax” Baxendale, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” For the past 24 years, Baxendale has co-hosted the “Bax & O’ Brien Show” with his team-mate, John O’ Brien in mornings on the Saga Communications powerhouse classic rock station, WAQY, Springfield, Massachusetts. The all-talk show is an eclectic blend of local and national politics, regional issues, pop culture, lifestyle trends, frivolous “locker room” banter and compellingly candid insights into the personal lives of the
show’s participants. “Rock 102” boasts a “flame thrower” signal that radiates far beyond Springfield and Western Massachusetts to blanket the neighboring market of Hartford, Connecticut – going far north into Vermont, south to New Haven and west into parts of New York State. Michael Harrison says, “Saga doesn’t need to subscribe to the ratings to sell advertising on this gem of a property in its primary listening area – the team of Bax and O’ Brien are superstars in this heavily populated region of New England. Their success and impact are self-evident. They are household names and two of the most beloved ‘bad boys’ I’ve ever seen in radio. They are examples of the sheer power of this medium when done properly with authenticity and consistency. They are also wonderful examples of the growing number of ‘all-talk’ shows that have popped up over the years on FM music stations – shows that defy the narrow, self-imposed restrictions that have come to define programming on traditional AM news/talk outlets.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right hand-column of the TALKERS email newsletter or on every page of Talkers.com.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Jacksonville station WWJK-FM flips from adult hits to rock as “107.3 Planet Radio,” anchored by the morning drive “Lex and Terry” show. The station is featuring core artists such as: AC/DC, Nirvana, Metallica, Linkin Park, and Sublime. iHeartMedia Jacksonville SVP of programming G-Wiz says, “Planet Radio is Jacksonville’s best rock station ever. The legendary Planet Radio not only features Jacksonville’s highest rated morning show, ‘Lex and Terry,’ but has the hardest working, 24/7 radio staff. I’m excited to have ‘Planet Radio’ back at its original frequency 107.3.”…..In San Francisco, morning personality Elvis Medina exits Entercom’s alternative KITS “ALT 105.3” and co-host Daena “DK” Kramer continues as solo host.
Friday, February 15, 2019
Cox Sells Majority Stake of News/Talk WHIO, Dayton, Two Music FMs, and TV and Newspaper Properties. The “buyer” here is Apollo Global Management which – according to a piece in today’s Atlanta Journal Constitution – is acquiring a controlling interest in Cox
Enterprises’ 14 television stations, its newspapers, and its three Dayton, Ohio radio stations. Cox made no secret of the fact it was shopping its television assets, but bunching Dayton radio outlets news/talk WHIO-AM/FM, country WHKO-FM, and rock WZLR-FM was not expected. Cox will retain a minority stake in the new company. Interestingly, Cox Media Group will continue ownership of the AJC, as well as its other radio stations and media outlets in other markets. Why is Apollo interested in the Dayton radio stations? The AJC writes, “The newspapers, radio stations, and WHIO-TV in Dayton share a unique business model that involve full integration of their operations. Apollo plans to maintain the Cox Media management and operating structure within the new company, which has yet to be named.”
Newt Gingrich Podcast Launches on Westwood One. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and Westwood One partner to create the “Newt’s World” weekly, original podcast. The press release states that the program “will offer stories, conversations, and context on a
different topic each week, from history to health, national security to science, and much more…’Newt’s World’ isn’t a podcast about politics; it’s a show that explores the past, present, and future to help listeners contextualize current events and important discoveries across all aspects of our society. The inaugural episode of ‘Newt’s World’ features the father of our country, the man who led the first Americans to freedom, George Washington.” Gingrich says, “I spend most of my time doing two things: learning and teaching. I’m looking forward to bringing others on the journey with me to fully explore fascinating topics together. Some weeks we’ll be talking about history, some weeks we’ll learn about the future, and others we’ll look at what is happening right now in culture, science, and events. We live in an amazing world, and there’s an enormous amount to learn and share.”
Former Sports Talk Host Marty Tirrell Faces Fraud Charges. Former KXNO, Des Moines sports talk host Marty Tirrell is being held in a Polk County, Iowa jail until space opens up at a
residential release facility. The 59-year-old is charged with six counts of fraud as federal prosecutors charge he swindled at least eight people out of $1.5 million. The allegations against Tirrell include that he sought investors for a business in which he would buy tickets to sporting events and sell them at a profit. Prosecutors say initially Tirrell paid back his investors, but later began lying to them and used their money for personal expenses and to pay back other investors. When they sought the promised return on their investment, Tirrell allegedly wrote checks he knew would bounce or provided them with false wire transfer information. See the Des Moines Register story here.
Gomez ‘American Grit’ Podcast Addresses Immigration Reform. Radio pro Joe Gomez is producing a podcast called ‘American Grit’ that he tells TALKERS magazine is dedicated to covering immigration reform and current events. Gomez, who served as a radio reporter for iHeartRadio (KOA, Denver and KRTH, Houston), CBS, and NBC, hosts the program. The podcast is available via iTunes, Spotify and Stitcher. Check it out here.
Border Wall Issue Top News/Talk Story for Week of February 11-15. The battle over President Trump’s plan for a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Trump-Russia investigation and the related ruling by a judge that former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort lied to investigators. Coming in at #3 was the Green New Deal, tied with the 2020 Democratic presidential hopefuls, followed by the Andrew McCabe CBS interview at #4. The Talkers TenTM 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. See this week’s entire chart here.
Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Names New Board and Directors. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation announces its 2019 National Board of Directors. New to the AWM board are Abby Greensfelder, co-founder & co-owner, Half Yard Productions; Brenda Hetrick, chief revenue officer, Matrix Solutions; and Katherine Wolfgang, head of public relations, CBC. AWM/F board chair and president Christine Travaglini says, “We are
thrilled to have these talented, accomplished women joining our leadership for the next two years.” Keisha Sutton James, vice president, Inner City Broadcasting Corporation, will serve as incoming chair, Heather Cohen, executive vice president, The Weiss Agency, will serve as treasurer. Josie Thomas, executive vice president, chief diversity and inclusion officer, CBS Corporation, will serve as treasurer-elect, while Sarah Foss, senior vice president, strategic initiatives, Freewheel Advertisers at FreeWheel will serve as immediate past chair. The following individuals will serve as directors at large of AWM: Joyce Fitch, executive vice president, general counsel and secretary, Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc.; Jinny Laderer, president, vCreative; Meg LaVigne, president of television, Litton Entertainment; Kelly DeLace Perdomo, vice president, content, sports, entertainment, and partnership marketing, SiriusXM; and Diane Schwartz, SVP and group publisher, Access Intelligence. The following individuals will serve as directors at large of AWMF: Anne Cowan, senior vice president, communications and marketing, CTAM; Annie Howell, co-founder and managing partner, The Punch Point Group; Deborah Parenti, publisher, RadioInk, RBR and TVBR; Rob Stoddard, SVP program network policy, NCTA; and Kristen Welch, chief financial officer, Illustrative Mathematics. At the same time the AWM/F announces that the 2019 call for entries for the annual Gracie Awards was the most successful in the program’s history. AWM/F executive director Becky Brooks adds, “The number and caliber of extraordinary programs and performances entered for the 2019 Gracie Awards is an unprecedented milestone for the AWM/F. Gracies judges – women and more men than ever before – include executives and talent from across every form of media. They have their work cut out for them in deciding the 2019 winners from this exceptional pool of nominees.” The 44th Annual Gracie Awards Gala will take place May 21, at the Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held June 26, in New York City at Cipriani 42nd Street.
Michael Harrison Explores the Impact of Changing Communications Technology on the Human Nervous System. One of the common themes of the present era is the challenge people face in keeping pace and coping with the exponential changes in communications technology. On this week’s installment of the award-winning PodcastOne production, “The Michael Harrison Interview,” the TALKERS founder interviews theoretical physicist Leonard Mlodinow, Norwegian explorer Erling Kagge, and licensed psychotherapist Dr. Bryan Robinson about the rapid changes taking place in our noisy world. Join them for a deep dive into the realm of neuro-plasticity, the sounds of silence, and escaping from the maddening, non-stop workplace. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and every page on Talkers.com.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Adult contemporary WDZH, Detroit “987 The Breeze” names husband-and-wife radio duo Chadd & Kristi (pictured) hosts of the station’s morning drive program, effective Monday (2/18). Entercom Detroit SVP and market manager
Debbie Kenyon says, “As a husband and wife team, Chadd and Kristi will bring a unique perspective to our airwaves and we are excited to welcome them to ‘The Breeze.’ They are both full of energy and our listeners can look forward to hearing all of their entertaining relationship and family life stories every workday.” Chadd & Kristi come to Detroit from their most recent position at Beasley Media Group’s WPBB, Tampa (recently flipped from AC to classic rock)…..iHeartMedia’s WRVE-HD2/W260CH “Wild Country 99.9” enters in to an agreement with NASCAR to broadcast each Monster Energy Cup Series race, including the Daytona 500, FireKeepers Casino 400, and Food City 500. “Wild Country 99.9” program director Terry O’Donnell says, “It’s an honor to be the new home for NASCAR in the Capital Region. NASCAR is the #1 spectator sport in America and since so many of us are on the move, we can’t always catch the race on TV. Now, listeners can hear the races live on their phone, smart speaker or in their car via iHeartRadio.”…..There’s a new iHeartRadio Original Podcast starring Mario Lopez titled “Listen To Mario” that launches today (2/15). In its inaugural episode, Lopez sits down for a candid conversation with Mark-Paul Gosselaar (a.k.a. Zack Morris from “Saved By the Bell!”) in which they discuss their childhood hairstyles, reminisce about “Saved By The Bell,” and much more.
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
PPM Analysis: News/Talk. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s November 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on the news/talk format. The news/talk stations that saw the biggest weekly 6+ AQH share improvement over the October 2018 survey were iHeartMedia’s WISN, Milwaukee (+ 0.9) and Emmis Communications’ WIBC-FM, Indianapolis (+ 0.7). On the negative side, Bonneville’s KSL, Salt Lake City was down a 1.8 share, iHeartMedia’s KOA, Denver dipped a 1.1 share and Good Karma’s WTMJ, Milwaukee was off a full share. Year-over-year, Cox Media Group’s WOKV-AM/FM, Jacksonville was a big winner, up 3.5 shares. On the flip side, iHeartMedia’s KOGO, San Diego dropped 1.9 shares since November 2017. Five news/talk outlets ranked #1 in their markets in November: Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta (8.6 share); iHeartMedia’s WLW, Cincinnati (10 share); Good Karma’s WTMJ, Milwaukee (9.4 share); Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Trenton (8.3 share); and Cox’s WOKV, Jacksonville (11.2 share). See the entire report here.
Latest Settlement Talks May Push Back iHeartMedia Chapter 11 Exit. The latest events in iHeartMedia’s journey through Chapter 11 reorganization may push the company’s exit
further into the future, according to a piece in Bloomberg Law. The story says that as the result of Monday’s court filings indicating objections to the Plan because of iHM’s settlement talks with Gamco Asset Management, the actual exit from bankruptcy protection could move past the anticipated February time frame. The piece says it appears certain creditors object to iHM and Gamco settling a class-action suit, arguing that such suits shouldn’t be settled in bankruptcy court. Today (12/11), was the original Confirmation Hearing date that’s been pushed back by the negotiations.
Maxwell Schaeffer to Host Weekend Show on WHO, Des Moines. According to a report in the Des Moines Register, longtime Des Moines radio personality Maxwell Schaeffer is
returning to the airwaves hosting the Saturday morning “Maxwell & Friends” program on news/talk WHO-AM, beginning January 5. Schaeffer has been with the iHeartMedia Des Moines cluster serving as director of promotions and marketing since August. Previously, he spent 23 years as morning host on Saga Communications’ classic hits KIOA-FM. Schaeffer tells the paper, “I kind of want the show to feel like we’re having a brunch party. Maybe without the mimosas — or at least visually. It is the radio, after all.” WHO program director Michael Dorwart comments, “It really just seemed like the wise move for us was to let him get settled then find where’s the right place to get him in an on-air role. Saturday morning seemed like a really good fit. We’re really not looking for a hardcore talk show.”
KRLA, Los Angeles-Based ‘The Bigger Picture with Timothy Spangler’ Reaches 250th Episode – Now Available for Syndication Distributed via Salem Radio Network. This Sunday (12/16) will see Los Angeles’ “The Bigger Picture with Timothy Spangler” air its
landmark 250th episode on local Salem Media Group O&O KRLA “AM870 the Answer.” The Sunday night call-in show has been airing on the SRN Southern California affiliate since March of 2013. The show is hosted by commentator/talk show host Timothy Spangler and co-hosted by Phillip Sparks and David C Fisher. Spangler tells TALKERS, “We started the show five-and-a-half years ago with a very different view on what live AM radio could and should be. We wanted our show to appeal to a much broader and younger audience than was currently being engaged by stations across the country – what we like to refer to as the #AltCenter. Fortunately, Los Angeles is a great inspiration for us.” Broadcasting live from the studios of KRLA 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight PT, the program covers a wide range of issues both domestic and international, punctuated by a unique blend of humor and wry observation. The show is now also available in other markets through Salem Radio Network (via XDS “SRN2 – The Bigger Picture”). For more information, check out the website www.biggerpictureradio.com.
KQTH-FM, Tucson Wraps News/Talk Format. Tomorrow, Tucson news/talk KQTH-FM flips
from news/talk to a religious format as Family Life Radio closes on its purchase of the station in a divestiture from the Scripps Media–Lotus Communications transaction. The FM news/talk format was originally installed on the station in April of 2007 by Journal Communications. The station transitioned to Scripps Media with the merger of Journal and E.W. Scripps. The station was airing mostly syndicated talk in addition to local morning show “Tucson’s Morning News” with Mike Rapp.
Trump-Russia Probe, Migrant Caravan/Border Wall Issue, Clean Water Act Changes, Google CEO to Testify, Financial Markets Activity, Brexit Complications, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/10). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the migrants amassed at the U.S.-Mexico border and the battle in Washington over funding for the border wall; the EPA’s proposed changes to the Clean Water Act; Google CEO Sundar Pichai to testify before a House subcommittee about bias allegations and China’s Project Dragonfly; the recent stock selloff and concerns about a bearish 2019; the Brexit complications dogging British Prime Minister Theresa May; 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.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In the San Diego market the executive management team operating Local Media San Diego has entered into an agreement to acquire the company operating alternative XETRA “91X,” CHR XHITZ “Z90,” and rhythmic oldies XHRM “Magic 92.5.” The management team consists of vice president and general manager Gregg Wolfson, chief financial officer Norm McKee, and director Steve McNeely. Wolfson says, “LMSD has always operated locally and the transition to local ownership is the final step to firmly plant our flag as San Diego’s local media provider.”…..More cuts at Hubbard Radio-owned stations as the KRWM “Warm 106.9” drops morning team Allan Fee, Ashley Ryan, and producer Kevin Justik. At sister country KNUC, evening personality Michael Kraig Mason exits…..Urban One flips Gospel WPPZ “Praise 107.9” to rhythmic oldies as “Classix 107.9” while keeping the Gospel format on WPPZ-HD2…..Pictured below is WHTZ, New York “Z100”-based, Premiere Networks syndicated morning personality Elvis Duran (left) on the December 7 episode of NBC’s “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon (right). The two discussed Duran’s taking care of his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and his getting engaged on the unluckiest day of the year – Friday the 13th.
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
WHO, Des Moines and ‘Our American Stories’ Present Newt Gingrich Live Event. “Our American Stories” host Lee Habeeb‘s American Private Radio and
iHeartMedia’s news/talk WHO, Des Moines are collaborating to present “An Evening with Newt Gingrich” on October 15 at the Iowa Historical Building. 
The event is being hosted by WHO afternoon drive personality Simon Conway and Lee Habeeb. Gingrich is quoted saying, “I am very excited to join our listeners for an evening of questions, answers and thought-provoking conversation. WHO is taking the lead in an important concept of storytelling that rebuilds and provides people with a better understanding of America, which is something we desperately need today.” “Our American Stories” airs in the evenings on WHO.
FNC to Produce Election Series Hosted by Ben Shapiro. This four-part series to air on FOX News Channel beginning on September 24 is being hosted by conservative
media figure Ben Shapiro. Titled, “The Ben Shapiro Election Special,” FNC says that each Sunday, Shapiro will be joined by a panel of experts along with influential guests to discuss the major headlines of the week and their impact on the upcoming 2018 midterm elections. The one-hour program will also feature Shapiro’s political commentary and analysis on the major issues affecting the younger voting demographic this election season. Shapiro is editor-in-chief of The Daily Wire and hosts a daily, eponymous podcast/radio show distributed by Westwood One.
Westwood One: AM/FM Radio Campaign Delivers ‘Significant Impressions.’ The study results are in the latest Westwood One blog post you can see here. WWO says that it hired Nielsen to study a campaign for a major cable network’s season launch of a
scripted drama that included AM/FM radio as well as paid TV spots and promos running on the network. WWO says this was one of the first TV tune-in ROI studies to examine both TV and AM/FM radio. The results indicated that although only 5% of the ad budget went to radio, it delivered 20% of total campaign impressions. Further, with amplified frequency, AM/FM radio drove tune-in conversion: The more frequently consumers were exposed to tune-in ads, the greater the conversion to viewing the premiere. Tune-in conversion is especially high among consumers who are exposed to ads six or more times. The study also concluded that AM/FM radio delivered a much younger audience: TV’s audience skews older than AM/FM radio’s audience. 70% of AM/FM radio impressions came from 18-54-year-olds. Conversely, nearly half of all the TV impressions were from 55+.
TALKERS News Notes. According to the FCC, as of 11:00 am yesterday (9/17) 28 radio stations are out of service – 25 FMs and 3 AMs – in North and South Carolina. Cell towers have also been affected by Hurricane Florence with 6% of the cell sites in the affected area out of service. That’s down from the previous report of 7.2%. Also, as a result of Hurricane Florence, the FCC and FEMA are alerting stations that the national test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA is being moved from this Thursday (9/20) to October 3. The WEA tests takes place at 2:18 pm ET and the EAS at 2:20 pm ET…..The NHL‘s Los Angeles Kings and iHeartMedia unveil a new media destination for all Kings action this season. All Kings games – including preseason, regular season and postseason contests – will now stream live on the new official LA Kings Audio Network, a custom station available on iHeartRadio, beginning with tonight’s Kings-Arizona Coyotes preseason game at STAPLES Center. Additionally, iHeartRadio will feature “Kings Talk,” the club’s call-in radio show, that will stream live after most regular season and postseason home games from inside the Impact Sports Bar & Grill inside STAPLES Center…..Hubbard Radio and its St. Louis sports talk station WXOS-FM “101 ESPN” are presenting the return of the live event Buds & Bourbon at RYSE Nightclub at AMERISTAR Casino Resort Spa in St. Charles, Missouri. WXOS air personalities will host the event that allows attendees to sample “the finest bourbons from distilleries such as McKenna Henry, Rittenhouse Rye, Bernheim, and more.”…..SiriusXM announces a new weekly show featuring sports journalist Christine Brennan and former professional tennis player Rennae Stubbs, titled “Game Changers.” It will air every Wednesday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm will cover women’s sports as well as examine the headline topics in the larger sports world that affect and interest women and girls everywhere, whether they be fans, professional athletes, or parents and kids involved in youth sports.
Kavanaugh Assault Allegations, U.S.-China Trade War, Hurricane Florence Destruction, Trump-Russia Investigation, Bloomberg Teases Presidential Run, NFL Action, and MLB Playoff Push Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/17). The allegations of a sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh; President Trump ramps up the trade war with China; the destruction in the Carolinas from Hurricane Florence; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; Michael Bloomberg announces he’s mulling a bid for president as a Democrat in 2020; the weekend’s NFL action; 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.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Charlotte alternative WEND “106.5 The End” names Maria Palmer music director and evening personality. Palmer comes to iHeartMedia Charlotte from Washington, DC where she’s been handling weekend and fill-in work on the company’s alternative WWDC and country WMZQ. WEND program
director Chuck “DZL” Thompson says, “I can’t wait for the people of Charlotte to hear Palmer on ‘106.5 The END.’ She has a rare blend of creativity, humor, passion, and drive, but also possesses the administrative and organizational skills needed to assist in running the day-to-day operations of the programming department. Palmer is definitely one to watch and we couldn’t be more excited to add her to the iHeart and WEND family.”…..Entercom names Jordin Silver host of the morning drive show on 
alternative KRBZ, Kansas City “96.5 The Buzz.” She’ll lead the “Mornings with Jordin Silver and Friends” program that features station air personalities Danny Boi and Mark. Entercom regional president and Kansas City market manager Dave Alpert says, “We’re truly excited about the addition of Jordin to our morning show. Pairing her with ‘Buzz’ morning vets Danny Boi and Mark will provide our listeners with a fresh show to start their day.” Silver has worked on air at KNDD, Seattle and KYSR, Los Angeles, to name a few…..Cumulus Media announces the five finalists in its rock artist competition neXt2rock. More than 1,600 rock artists joined the competition from across the U.S. The winner of the competition will get a record deal with Big Machine/John Varvatos Records, as well as substantial exposure, commensurate with a major label release, on Cumulus radio stations nationwide. The finale takes place on October 4 at The Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles. Music personality and longtime radio and TV host Matt Pinfield will host the evening’s festivities. The five finalists are: Friday Pilots Club representing Chicago (WKQX); The Zealots representing Des Moines (KGGO); Black Rock Revival representing Memphis (WXMX); No Resolve representing Saginaw (WILZ & WKQZ); and Late Night Savior representing Salt Lake City (KBER & KHTB)…..Entercom reveals the lineup for this year’s “We Can Survive” concert to benefit Young Survival Coalition – an organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. This year’s event will feature musical performances by Shawn Mendes, Charlie Puth, Ella Mai, G-Eazy, Khalid, Marshmello, Meghan Trainor, NF, and Tyga on Saturday, October 20 at the Hollywood Bowl…..DJ Envy, world-renowned DJ and co-host of the Premiere Networks nationally syndicated morning show, “The Breakfast Club,” has been nominated for a 2018 BET Hip Hop Award in the “DJ of the Year” category. Other nominees in the category include: DJ Khaled, DJ Drama, DJ Mustard, and Calvin Harris.
PPM Analysis: CHR. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s August 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on mainstream CHR. About half of the stations in this month’s survey saw their 6+ weekly AQH shares dip from the July 2018 survey to the August survey. The year-over-year trend saw 52% of CHR stations in PPM markets decline from August 2017 to August 2018. Four CHR outlets ranked #1 in their respective markets (6+) during the August survey. Three belong to iHeartMedia: KHKS, Dallas “106.1 Kiss FM”; WXKS-FM, Boston “Kiss 108”; and KDWB, Minneapolis. The fourth is Hubbard Radio’s KQMV, Seattle. See the whole report here.
Monday, July 30, 2018
Larry Wilson Steps Down from Alpha Media Chairman Role. The Citadel Broadcasting chief launched Alpha Broadcasting in 2009 with stations in Portland, Oregon. The company would merge with L&L Broadcasting and Main Line
Broadcasting in 2014 and become Alpha Media. Now, Larry Wilson will step away from his role as chairman of the board of directors of Alpha Media but will remain a member of the board. A press release from the company says that under Wilson’s guidance, “Alpha Media has become the largest privately-owned radio broadcast company in the United States, operating 
225 radio stations in 48 markets across the nation. Wilson is also known for his work within the country music industry, having served on the board of directors for the Country Music Association from 1991 to 2001 and inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2014.” Alpha Media president and CEO Bob Proffitt comments, “Wilson is a respected colleague and pioneer in the broadcast industry. His vision helped craft today’s broadcast and radio landscape.” Alpha Media will elect a new chairman at its next scheduled board meeting.
Brett Winterble Re-Ups with KFMB-AM, San Diego. San Diego talk show host Brett Winterble signs a new contract with Tegna-owned news/talk KFMB-AM, San Diego to
continue hosting the 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm show. Winterble originally joined KFMB-AM in 2012 as part of the Roger Hedgecock show and began hosting afternoons in 2015. In addition to his radio show and podcast productions, he recently began hosting a two-hour show for Newsmax TV. KFMB-AM program director Dave Sniff states, “We are excited to continue our relationship with Brett! His ability to digest the daily news cycle and make it relevant for the San Diego community is unmatched and truly impressive. Brett will play a key role in creating unique content, not only for KFMB-AM, but also for our various digital platforms.”
David Haugh Assumes AM Co-Host Role on WSCR, Chicago Today. After 26 years with WSCR, Chicago “The Score,” Brian Hanley did his last regular morning show with Mike Mulligan on Friday (7/27) and Chicago Tribune sports columnist David Haugh debuts on the new “Mully and Haugh” show today. Haugh says in a statement, “I’m 
excited to join The Score’s morning show. Brian Hanley is a good friend and class act who set a high standard for me to meet. Mike Mulligan has gone from fierce competitor to trusted confidante over the years, a relationship I’ve always valued. I will continue to have the privilege of writing columns for the Chicago Tribune, where I have spent the last 15 years trying to serve the best interests of Chicago sports fans. The job only gets better now. Thank you to The Score for the opportunity, to the Tribune for the support and to everyone who will listen to “Mully and Haugh” do our best to entertain you every morning.” Read Chicago media maven Robert Feder’s story on the changes here.
United States Traffic Network Sues Entercom for $5 Million. Alleging that Entercom entered into negotiations with United States Traffic Network to buy the company and walked away from the deal at the last minute with the intent of developing a directly competitive business based on information gathered during the discovery
process, USTN is suing Entercom for material and punitive damages “in excess of $5 million.” The complaint, filed the District Court in Harris County, Texas, states, “During the transaction of the sale of equity in USTN, in April and the failed transaction, 
Defendants (Entercom) made false representations of fact, false promises or benefitted by not disclosing that a third party’s representations or promises were false. The false representations or promises, set forth above, were made for the purpose of inducing Plaintiffs to enter into a contract regarding the equity of USTN. Plaintiffs relied on the false representations or promises. The reliance on the false representations, promises, and failures to disclose caused Plaintiffs injury and benefited Defendants.” The suit further alleges that Entercom intentionally induced USTN to miss a scheduled debt payment to Entercom under the pretenses that this payment would be unnecessary due to the planned closing of the purchase transaction. USTN is owned by Fair and Equal LLC. For its part, Entercom issues a press release saying it has ended its reseller agreement with USTN and calls the suit “entirely baseless, frivolous and frankly insulting. Entercom has worked tirelessly and constructively with USTN over the past six months to help USTN work through its significant financial issues. Entercom is owed substantial amounts of money by USTN, and the company intends to defend itself vigorously and assert all of its rights.” Entercom says it “has successfully sold traffic and other short duration advertising on its own for many years. In April, Entercom took back a portion of its broadcast inventory from USTN and is achieving great success selling that inventory through its own sales channels. The Company expects to build on that success as it begins to monetize the remaining inventory taken back from USTN.” CEO David Field says, “We are relieved to no longer be mired by the difficult USTN situation that was inherited as part of the CBS Radio merger. We will move quickly to augment our strong internal sales organization to ensure that we realize the full value of this inventory.”
A Visit to WRKO’s New Digs. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison paid a visit to legendary outlet WRKO, Boston on Friday (7/27) to check out its new location and pristine, one-week-old studios at the iHeartMedia broadcasting complex in Medford, Massachusetts (a bustling area on Boston’s north side). Until recently, WRKO was an Entercom property, but it was sold to iHeart after Entercom’s merger with CBS Radio, significantly re-shuffling the playing deck in Boston. While there, Harrison sat in from 6:00 am to 10:00 am for the morning show’s regular co-host, Doug “VB” Goudie – something he occasionally does on the station. Harrison (left) is pictured with the WRKO morning show’s co-anchor Kim Carrigan (center) and the program’s on-air producer Jim Clerkin (right). Carrigan will be the guest on the next installment of the award-winning podcast “The Michael Harrison Interview” set to be posted tomorrow (7/31).
Final Radio Talent Institute of the Summer Taking Place at Northwest Missouri State. This week begins that final 10-day Radio Talent Institute of the summer. Students from 11 different universities are converging on the campus of Northwest Missouri State University to take part in the Missouri Broadcasters Association Radio Talent Institute. MBA president Mark Gordon says, “This was made possible by the financial commitments from Northwest Missouri State University, the Missouri 
Broadcasters board of directors and broadcast companies that include: Hubbard Radio St. Louis; Eagle Communications St. Joseph; Zimmer Radio and Marketing Group of Mid Missouri Columbia, Jefferson City; iHeartMedia St. Louis, Springfield, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport; Cumulus Media Kansas City, Columbia, Jefferson City; Alpha Media of Missouri: Union Broadcasting Kansas City; and Mid-West Family Broadcasting Springfield. We are pleased to bring this program taught by industry professionals to Missouri that will help fill job openings at broadcast stations with quality employees who have a true understanding of how fun and rewarding a career in our industry can be.” Founder and president of the National Radio Talent System, Dan Vallie, comments, “To have so many students from so many different universities is a tribute to Mark and the MBA and their efforts as we work together to discover and prepare young talent for the industry. These are the talent we will be hiring now and will be the leaders in our industry tomorrow.”
RI Talk Host John DePetro and Sean Spicer at Book Signing. Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer (left) returned to his home state of Rhode Island to promote his new book The Briefing (2018, Regnery Publishing). He’s pictured here with WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island talk show host John DePetro (right), who hosted him on his radio show and attended several of the book signings with him. DePetro also emceed a private VIP event in Spicer’s hometown of Barrington, Rhode Island.
New Affiliates for ‘Our American Stories.’ Now airing in the evenings on iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WHO, Des Moines is Lee Habeeb’s “Our American
Stories.” Additional new affiliate stations include: iHeartMedia’s KPRC, Houston and Inspiration Time’s WXTE, Erie. Program host Lee Habeeb is a vice president of content at Salem Media Group and a contributing editor of the weekly essay series “Across America” for Newsweek Magazine and Newsweek.com. “Our American Stories” airs on 139 radio stations across the U.S.
Trump-Russia Investigation/Trump’s Mueller Tweets, Trump-Sulzberger Fake News Meeting, Government Shutdown Threat, Trump Trade Wars, Facebook Value Plummets, California Wildfires, Les Moonves Allegations, New Mission: Impossible Film, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents, tied with President Trump’s weekend tweets about the matter; Trump’s meeting with New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger over the president’s fake news charges; Trump threatens to let federal government shut down unless border wall is funded; the effects of Trump’s trade wars on U.S. businesses; the plunging value of Facebook; the deadly California wildfires; allegations of sexual harassment against CBS chairman Les Moonves; the new Tom Cruise Mission: Impossible film; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
NuVoodoo Study Reveals Listener Misconceptions. Calling the results “startling new insights for radio stations,” NuVoodoo Media Services says its 12th and latest NuVoodoo Ratings Prospects Study of more than 3,000 radio listeners between the ages of 14 and 54 across all PPM-rated markets will reveal the findings in a series of free webinars for radio professionals, beginning Wednesday (8/1). Register at http://www.nuvoodoo.com/webinars. The study was fielded this June and indicates that about half of all radio listeners under age 35 believe radio’s tight playlists are a cost-saving measure to avoid paying licensing fees. Among those respondents who are likely to accept a diary or meter, the perception jumps to more than 2/3 among 14-24-year-olds. The study also shows that nearly 60% of all respondents and close to 70% of likely diary and PPM participants conclude that radio stations play the music that record companies pay them to play. NuVoodoo says the webinar series is part of its ongoing effort to inform the industry of emerging trends and to help uncover opportunities for stations to improve programming and marketing efforts. The primary focus is on those who have accepted or are more likely to accept a ratings diary or become part of the PPM panel, since this small segment of radio listeners holds the key to any station’s financial success.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Nationally syndicated country morning personality Bobby Bones and iHeartMedia announce a renewed and expanded relationship in which Bones takes on the title vice president, creative director of
iHeartCountry. In addition to continuing to host his daily morning show and the weekly “Country Top 30,” Bones will executive produce a new, one-hour weekend program, “Women of iHeartCountry,” co-hosted by Amy Brown from the Bobby Bones show. The program will feature music from established female artists and up-and-comers, with weekly guest appearances by other iHeartMedia female on air personalities. Bones says, “This is the opportunity I’ve been chasing my entire career. Thanks to Bob Pittman, Rich Bressler, and Kevin Legrett for their years of support and for the space to build 
this partnership.”…..LARadio.com reports that CHR legend Rick Dees is joining KQLH-LPFM, Yucaipa, California to host the afternoon drive show. KQLH-LPFM serves parts of the Inland Empire and Palm Springs. It is a non-profit station but accepts sponsorships as tax deductible donations…..Entercom names Toshamakia Acevedo music director and afternoon drive personality for hip hop KQKS, Denver “KS 107.5.” Acevedo transfers from the company’s hip hop WJMH, Greensboro, North Carolina “102 Jamz.” Entercom Denver SVP and market manager John Fullam comments, “We are excited to welcome Toshamakia to the Denver team. We believe her on-air energy and passion for being involved in the community will resonate a great deal with Denver music fans.” Acevedo succeeds former APD, music director, and afternoon drive host Michael Buhrman, who recently transitioned to Entercom’s KSFM, Sacramento as program
director and afternoon drive host…..Cumulus Media appoints Megan Stone co-host of WEBE, Westport, Connecticut (Fairfield and New Haven markets) “WEBE Wake Up Morning Show with Jay Michaels.” Operations manager Danny Lyons states, “It is exciting to welcome Megan to the Cumulus family. I know her enthusiasm for radio, as well as for her listeners, will shine through every morning on WEBE 108.”…..At CHR WYRG, Indianapolis “ENERGY 93.9,” Robert “Sid” Sidloski takes over the program director role on August 6. Cumulus Media Indianapolis operations manager Boomer says, “In seeking the next leader for WYRG I had the opportunity to speak with several skilled programmers from around the country, most with career credentials that would certainly be suitable for the role of PD. However, I kept coming back to Sid’s positive attitude and seemingly relentless drive and determination to succeed in this situation along with his vision for the brand to pursue and achieve aggressive success right away. Sid has an understanding of our obstacles and has shared impressive plans to seize upon our opportunities here in Indianapolis. I’m absolutely looking forward to seeing his leadership in action as PD of ENERGY 93.9.”…..The nationally syndicated “The Bert Show” – led by Bert Weiss – enters into an agreement to be produced and distributed by Westwood One. Cumulus Media EVP, marketing and Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes states, “We’re excited to welcome ‘The Bert Show’ to Westwood One. His ever-evolving show has been on a steady rise for more than a decade. Bert’s professionalism and level of entertainment, combined with the strength of our network, should take him to new heights.” The program was previously syndicated by YEA Networks…..In Detroit, Mildred Gaddis – host of the “Mildred Gaddis Show” on Radio One’s “Detroit Praise Network” is named community affairs director for Radio One’s Detroit cluster. The new “Praise Network” replaces gospel WPZR-FM that was recently acquired by EMF. As part of that transaction, Radio One acquires translators W228CJ at 93.5 and W252BX at 98.3 from EMF and plans to marry them with W260CB at 99.9 to build the new “Detroit Praise Network.”…..Premiere Networks syndicated adult contemporary star Delilah is publishing her latest book, One Heart At a Time (2018, RosettaBooks). In the book, Delilah uses “stories from her extraordinary off-air life – full of trials, forgiveness, faith, and adventure (along with select well-executed pranks)” in calling on us to “connect, one heart at a time, to lift others, and in the process, our communities and ourselves.” Rosetta CEO Arthur Klebanoff states, “In her easygoing style and characteristic, beloved voice, Delilah shares the real woman behind the microphone. She tells her deeply moving story as the series of miracles and prayers it is.”
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Beasley Sets Price for ‘Bordes Family’ Stock at $7.50; Pulls Back on Secondary Offering. Analysts are saying the announcement of the sale of 3,126,147 shares of its Class A common stock – shares held by the Bordes family and received in the Greater Media deal – at $7.50 per share, combined with Beasley Media Group’s intent to
purchase country WXTU, Philadelphia for $38 million in cash has sent the company’s stock price down 17.4% (as of Tuesday) to $7.35 per share. As a result, Beasley has reversed course and will not sell 1.1 million shares of Beasley family-held stock in a secondary offering. At the same time, the company has set the price of the “Bordes family” stock to the public at $7.50 per share. That offering is expected to close on or about July 26 (subject to customary closing conditions). Additionally, the underwriters have a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 468,922 shares of Class A common stock from the “Bordes family selling stockholders.” Beasley will not receive any proceeds from shares of Class A common stock to be sold by the Bordes family selling stockholders. Guggenheim Securities, LLC is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.
Cox Media Group Considering ‘Strategic Options’ for Television Assets. It wasn’t that long ago that a rumor filtered through the radio industry that Cox Media Group may be shopping its radio station properties. Now we learn that CMG’s concern is not 
with its radio division but with the 14-station TV group. In a statement, Cox Media Group president Kim Guthrie says that when it comes to television, “scale is critical to be successful. We firmly believe that our great stations – and talented people – will need to be part of a larger entity to thrive in the future.” It’s not clear if Cox has a buyer or partner in mind, but Guthrie says any deal would likely be completed in the next six to 12 months. Her internal memo says the company would consider merging or partnering with another media entity. Cox Enterprises president and CEO Alex Taylor says in his internal memo, “We’ve identified a lot of exciting growth opportunities, and also some tough decisions we need to make as time marches on and things change.”
FCC Seeking Comments on Competition in Audio Marketplace. Speaking of competition in the broader media marketplace, the Federal Communications Commission issues a public notice seeking comment from the industry on the “status of competition in the marketplace for delivery of audio programming.” Recent legislation requires “the Commission publish a Communications Marketplace Report in the last quarter of every even numbered year. Among other things, the biennial
Communications Marketplace Report requires that the Commission assess the state of competition in the communications marketplace, including competition to deliver audio service among broadcast stations, satellite radio, and entities that provide audio content via the internet and to mobile devices.” Responses to this request could go a long way in giving the FCC the information it needs to justify changes in ownership caps, for example. The notice continues: “Accordingly, this Public Notice seeks input on the state of competition in the marketplace for the delivery of audio programming as it would relate to the overall goal of providing the required Communications Marketplace Report to Congress. This Public Notice requests comment on the criteria or metrics that could be used to evaluate the state of competition in the audio programming marketplace, as well as comment and information on industry data, competitive dynamics, and trending factors. For example, commenters are invited to submit the following data and information related to participants in the marketplace for the delivery of audio programming, including, but not limited to, terrestrial radio broadcasters (i.e., AM and FM radio stations), satellite radio providers, and entities that provide audio programming over the Internet and to mobile devices (collectively, Audio Marketplace Participants): 1) identification and ownership of key Audio Marketplace Participants, as well as the business models and competitive strategies they use; 2) trends in service offerings, pricing, and consumer behavior; 3) the extent of competition among Audio Marketplace Participants, including intramodal competition (i.e., competition among providers of the same type, such as terrestrial radio broadcast stations) and intermodal competition (i.e., competition among providers of different types, such as terrestrial radio broadcast stations and satellite radio providers); 4) ratings, subscribership, and revenue information, for the marketplace as a whole and for individual Audio Marketplace Participants; 5) capital investment, innovation, and the deployment of advanced technology; 6) requirements for entry into the marketplace; and 7) recent entry into and exit from the marketplace.” See the full Notice here.
Jack Taddeo to Lead Cumulus Des Moines. Radio management pro Jack Taddeo is named vice president and market manager for Cumulus Media’s Des Moines station
group that includes: news/talk/sports KBGG and four music formatted stations. Taddeo was most recently market manager at NRG Media’s Cedar Falls/Cedar Rapids cluster. Cumulus EVP of operations Bob Walker comments, “We are thrilled to have a broadcaster like Jack Taddeo to lead the Cumulus team in Des Moines. Jack’s passion for broadcast and the impact it has in communities is contagious.”
Doug Gottlieb and JT The Brick Launch NFL Camp Tour. The NFL season is just around the corner and that means FOX Sports Radio’s Doug Gottlieb and JT “The
Brick” are on the road visiting team training camps in California for the network’s annual NFL Training Camp Tour. The Doug Gottlieb show will 
broadcast from the Los Angeles Rams training camp at UC Irvine on July 27, followed by the Dallas Cowboys training camp at River Ridge Playing Fields in Oxnard on August 6, and the Los Angeles Chargers training camp at Jack Hammett Sports Complex in Costa Mesa on August 9. JT “The Brick,” who has served in various broadcast capacities with the Oakland Raiders since 1998 and currently serves as a sideline reporter for the team’s pre-season broadcasts, will broadcast from their training camp in Napa Valley, on July 26 and 27.
New Affiliates for Walter M. Sterling; Guest Shot on KMOX, St. Louis. New affiliates
for the Westwood One-distributed “Sterling on Sunday” program include KKSF, San Francisco and KUFO, Portland. Walter M. Sterling says, “The show’s success comes from holding up a mirror to daily life. I did a whole hour about stealing Splenda and tiny airplane bathrooms.” On Thursday of this week (7/26), Sterling guest stars on KMOX, St. Louis’ “Overnight America” program for regular host Ryan Wrecker.
Envision’s ‘Drive By Funny’ to Air on WWSE, Jamestown. The city of license for adult contemporary WWSE “SE93” – Jamestown, New York – is the hometown of comedy legend Lucille Ball. The owner is Media One Group and director of broadcast
operations Andrew Hill says, “Jamestown, New York is the birthplace of Lucille Ball, the first female of comedy, so we needed to have a professional and easy-to-use comedy service to entertain listeners that come into town from across the globe to visit her hometown. We are also opening the new National Comedy Center museum in Jamestown this year and we really needed a turnkey comedy option that our jocks could use to promote all of the comedy we have in town. ‘Drive by Funny’ fits our needs perfectly and our audience is enjoying these clean, funny, and iconic audio pieces to laugh to throughout the day.” Envision Networks says, “Drive By Funny’s contemporary and classic comedy cuts come from a library that boasts tracks pulled from an archive of more than 18,000 safe-for-work and in-the-car comedy clips that can create a great opportunity for benchmark features and lucrative sponsorship opportunities.”
Trump-Russia Investigation/Cohen Recordings, Trade Wars/Farm Aid Package, Illegal Immigration/Asylum Policies, Trump-Iran Rhetoric, Ivanka Trump Shuts Fashion Brand, Mega Millions Jackpot, Southwest Heatwave, Athens Wildfires, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/24). The investigation into possible connections between the Trump campaign and Russian operatives and the related 12 tapes of President Trump and former attorney Michael Cohen turned over to Robert Mueller; the Trump tariffs and fears of trade wars as well as the related move to provide $12 billion in assistance to U.S. farmers; the Trump administration’s illegal immigration and asylum polices; the war rhetoric between President Trump and Iran; Ivanka Trump shutters her fashion brand; the $522 million Mega Millions jackpot; the heatwave affecting the Southwest U.S.; the deadly wildfires ravaging Greece; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programmer Nathan Graham is named PD at Entercom’s CHR WDZH, Detroit “98.7 AMP Radio.” He comes to Detroit from his most recent position with the company at CHR WXSS, Milwaukee “103.7 KISS FM” where he was APD and music director. Entercom Detroit vice president and market manager Debbie
Kenyon says, “Nathan has cultivated strong leadership skills and a wealth of top 40 format knowledge that we are confident will help propel ‘98.7 AMP Radio’ to new heights. We are proud to cultivate talent within the Entercom team and look forward to welcoming him to Detroit.” Graham succeeds Ian “Slacker” Richards as program director, who remains at the station as the afternoon drive host, APD and music director…..KISS-FM, San Antonio-based Billy Madison is named Best Talk Show Host by San Antonio Current magazine. His syndicated “Billy Madison Show” airs in morning drive on the Cox Media Group rock outlet…..SiriusXM announces that The Beach Boys will sit down for an intimate Q&A session with a select group of listeners for the SiriusXM “Town Hall” series at the legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood on July 30. The session will be moderated by Emmy award-winning actor, director, producer and writer Rob Reiner and will air on August 10 at 5:00 pm ET/PT on the Good Vibrations: The Beach Boys Channel. In this rare, live group appearance, founding members Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine and David Marks along with long time Beach Boy Bruce Johnston, will gather to speak with Reiner and answer questions from fans about their SiriusXM channel, their new album, The Beach Boys with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and their celebrated career as one of the world’s most beloved and respected bands…..iHeartMedia announces the lineup for the 2018 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina at American Airlines Arena in Miami on Saturday, November 3. The fifth annual concert will celebrate the best in Latin music with performances by Pitbull, Nicky Jam, Steve Aoki, Farruko, Nacho, and Becky G with more artists to follow.
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Emmis Fiscal Q1 Net Revenue Down 4%. Reporting financial data for the fiscal first quarter that ended on May 31, Emmis Communications states net revenue for the radio division was $26.4 million, down from $38.7 million during the same period a year ago. That percentage figure of -4% is pro forma, taking into account the recent sales
of stations, including the St. Louis cluster that it sold to Entercom that closed on April 30. The report notes that Emmis’ net revenue was down 4% “in markets that were down 6%.” Emmis used the net proceeds to repay credit facility debt, resulting in approximately $20 million of net credit facility debt outstanding. Chief executive officer and chairman of the board Jeff Smulyan says, “Emmis has made tremendous strides in paying down our debt and giving ourselves the financial flexibility to pursue new areas of growth. We see opportunities both inside and outside of traditional media as we look to transform the company in the coming months and years.”
Two News Pros Return to KIRO-FM, Seattle. At Bonneville International’s Seattle news/talker KIRO-FM, director of news and programming Ryan Maguire announces that Jillian Raftery is returning to the station as midday news editor and Heather Bosch is joining the station to serve as afternoon news anchor. Raferty has been working as a sales and marketing consultant in Vancouver, BC for the past two years.
She says, “I fell in love with radio and storytelling listening to KIRO Radio growing up. I started my career at the station in 2011 as an intern and after graduating from college returned and worked my way through many roles on the digital and news teams, serving as digital editor, social media manager, midday and morning editor, reporter, as well as filling in on anchor shifts…I am thrilled to come home and get to know the ever-changing Seattle landscape all over again.” Bosch has been serving with CBS Radio News in New York as a national correspondent for the past five years. She comments, “I’m thrilled to be back at KIRO Radio – my broadcast home for 10 years! After five years as a Manhattan-based CBS Network News correspondent, I’m eager to share what I’ve learned while covering big, breaking news stories like the Boston Marathon bombing, and investigating more complex issues, such as the experience of women serving in the US military.” Maguire adds, “Heather and Jillian are great additions to our award-winning and diverse news team. I want to thank our managing editor Colleen O’Brien for her work in these very thorough job searches. We’re proud that KIRO continues to attract the best and brightest in the industry.”
Graham to Host Afternoons on WSJS, Greensboro. Sports talk personality Josh Graham is the new afternoon drive host on Curtis Media’s WSJS,
Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point, effective July 23. Curtis Media says that “The Drive with Josh Graham” will air on WSJS-AM; WPCM-AM, Burlington-Graham and six of the company’s other AM and FM signals, as well as via the WSJS Sports app. Curtis Media Group Triad GM Al Bunch says, “Local sports fans are in for a treat. After a nationwide search that generated hundreds of applicants, Josh stood above the rest. Josh is passionate about ACC and North Carolina sports, has strong opinions and boundless energy. You may not always agree with him, but you will always be entertained and informed with Josh’s inside information and deep knowledge of sports.”
Iowa Radio Pro Maxwell Schaeffer Joins iHM Des Moines. On-air pro Maxwell Schaeffer is named director of promotions and marketing for iHeartMedia’s Des Moines cluster, effective August 10. In addition to his
day-to-day promotional and marketing operations duties, Schaeffer will also make on-air appearances on cluster stations, including on news/talk WHO “News Radio 1040.” Area market president Joel McCrea says, “Everyone in Des Moines knows Maxwell. He is a friend to many charitable organizations as well as the arts and the business community, giving him a solid understanding and connection to the market.” Schaeffer joins iHeartMedia Des Moines from Saga Communications where he served 23 years as a morning show host on classic hits KIOA-FM, Des Moines. Schaeffer is a member of the Iowa Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk media superstar Sean Hannity is hosting his Premiere Networks radio program and his FOX News Channel show from
London through tomorrow as he covers President Trump’s trip to the UK. Then, he heads to Helsinki on Monday (7/16) to cover the summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin…..CNN announces that 
Brianna Keilar will begin anchoring the 1:00 pm ET hour, effective this fall. She’ll take over for Wolf Blitzer, who will continue to host “The Situation Room” from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET. TVNewser reports that a name for the program has not been announced but that Keilar will begin the program after returning from maternity leave. She has been the primary fill-in anchor for “The Situation Room,” was the lead reporter covering 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and the Democratic field in 2016, and previously served as CNN’s senior White House correspondent covering the Obama administration…..As part of SiriusXM’s coverage of Major League Baseball’s 2018 All-Star Week (in addition to play-by-play of the All-Star Game), Chris “Mad Dog” Russo will sit down with MLB commissioner Robert D.
Manfred Jr. before a live audience at the Library of Congress for a Town Hall broadcast. It will be taped and air on Monday (7/16) at 1:00 pm ET on the MLB Channel…..Cumulus Media‘s news/talk KLIF-AM, Dallas adds Radio America‘s “The Dana Show” with host Dana Loesch to the programming schedule.
TALKERS Continues Posting Videos Today of the Recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! Convention – Today’s Post: Panel Discussion, “Attracting Younger Demos to Talk Radio.” Today (7/12), TALKERS magazine continues posting individual events from the recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! convention held in New York City on June 8. Each business day, another session or activity will be posted in the order that they originally took place. Today’s 12th installment is the panel discussion titled “Attracting Younger Demos to Talk Radio.” It is moderated by Mike “Bax” Baxendale, morning co-host, WAQY-FM (Rock 102), Springfield, MA; introduced by WPHT, Philadelphia host Rich Zeoli; and featuring panelists Armstrong & Getty Show co-hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty; WRKO, Boston PD, Michael Czarnecki; WRHU-FM/WRHU.org, Hofstra University OM, John T. Mullen; WABC, New York host Sid Rosenberg; and Compass MediaNetworks/Newsmax host, Todd Schnitt; Already posted: a video of the donation given by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley to the Broadcasters Foundation of America and accepted by its president Jim Thompson; convention luncheon greetings by WNYM “970 AM The Answer,” New York morning host Joe Piscopo with an introduction by Salem SVP Phil Boyce along with the posthumous presentation of the “Humanitarian of the Year” award to the late Texas and Ohio radio talk show host Matt Patrick by Michael Harrison with an acceptance by his widow and show producer, Paula Ryan; the panel discussion titled “Adding the Video Component to Talk Radio” moderated by Livestream head of news, Clayton Rose and featuring panelists Krantz Media Group CEO, Gary Krantz and KTRS, St Louis host, McGraw Milhaven; the panel discussion titled “Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2018” moderated by TALKERS VP/executive editor, Kevin Casey; introduced by Crossover Media Group managing member, Ron Hartenbaum; and featuring panelists Asa RX host, Asa; Bold Gold Media Group CEO, Vince Benedetto; Howie Carr Radio Network president, Kathy Carr; Westwood One president, Suzanne Grimes; WBAL, Baltimore president/GM, Cary Pahigian; and KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz owner, Michael Zwerling; the special presentation by Amplifi Media CEO, Steven Goldstein titled “Radio Broadcasters and Smart Speakers with an introduction by GCN personality, Dr. Daliah Wachs ; a special presentation by PodcastOne chairman and CEO, Norm Pattiz titled “Radio Broadcasters and Podcasting” with an introduction by Voice of America and National Public Radio anchor/reporter, Lori Lundin; a special presentation by WFAN personality, Mike Francesa titled “Sports Talk’s Role in Media and Popular Culture” with an introduction by author and former radio producer, Bernadette Duncan; Salem SVP, Phil Boyce’s address titled “What Has Donald Trump Done to Talk Radio?”; the fireside chat between TALKERS publisher, Michael Harrison and Beasley Media Group CEO, Caroline Beasley including Harrison’s presentation of the 2018 “Woman of the Year” award to Beasley; Harrison’s fireside chat with FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel mega-star, Brian Kilmeade with an introduction by Westwood One syndicated host, Walter Sterling and special remarks by Sean Hannity; opening remarks by the convention’s co-emcees, TalkersRadio GM, David Bernstein and Good Day Networks/DJV Show CEO/host, Doug Stephan; KGO, San Francisco host, Ethan Bearman delivering the event’s welcoming remarks and Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host, Brad Shepard introduction of Bearman; and the presentation of the Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech (“Freedom of Speech Award”) by TALKERS managing editor, Mike Kinosian to SiriusXM Satellite Radio host, book publisher, Hunter College professor, and former New York Daily News/Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, Karen Hunter. To view the page, please click here.
Trump at NATO Meeting, Trump-Russia Investigation/Trump-Putin Meeting, Illegal Immigration-Asylum Policies, Kavanaugh Confirmation Process, Page/Strzok Testimony, Papa John’s Founder Resigns, Stormy Daniels Arrest, World Cup, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/11). Reaction to President Trump’s demanding NATO member nations pay their dues; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and Trump’s impending meeting with Vladimir Putin; the Trump administration’s illegal immigration and asylum policies; the confirmation process for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh; former FBI attorney Lisa Page’s refusal to testify before a congressional committee and former lover Peter Strzok’s intent to appear before the same panel; Papa John’s founder John Schnatter resigns from chairman of board position after use of “n-word”; Stormy Daniels is arrested in Ohio after strip club appearance; soccer’s World Cup tournament; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Highway Radio Network Establishes Remote Studio at Pawn Plaza in Las Vegas. This deal between Highway Radio Network and Heftel Broadcast Company brings about the launch of a new remote satellite broadcast studio at Pawn Plaza (725 S. Las 
Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas) owned by Gold & Silver Pawn Shop owner Rick Harrison, star of History’s “Pawn Stars.” Highway Radio Network co-founder and COO Sean O’Neill states, “We are very excited to be part of this endeavor. The Pawn Plaza attracts thousands of customers thanks to the huge success of ‘Pawn Stars.’ To be able to launch a broadcast studio at a must-see Las Vegas destination for tourists is a perfect scenario for us.” Rick Harrison adds, “Having Highway Radio’s live studio is an awesome addition to Pawn Plaza and will mean our fans will not only get a chance to see our ‘Pawn Stars’ team and experts do interviews, but also many other famous Las Vegas celebrities.”
Radio Networks Deal with Skyview and ABC Radio to Expand 24/7 Music Format Distribution and Sales. This deal between the three players is designed to “change the paradigm of the 24/7 music format business for small and medium market stations by expanding distribution and driving network sales revenue and power additional content.” Local Radio Networks, Skyview Networks, and ABC Radio will 
work together to expand distribution for LRN’s 24/7 music formats, heighten network sales and create new content when the agreement becomes effective on January 1, 2019. LRN CEO Steve Swick says, “This is really an exciting time for Local Radio Networks. Launching this relationship with ABC Radio and Skyview Networks allows us to expand our 24/7 programming footprint and distribute our music formats with dual delivery platforms of cloud-based and now satellite delivery via XDS smart receivers to potentially thousands of stations, effortlessly and efficiently. Steve Jones and ABC Radio bring some very special content opportunities to the table, as well. With the addition of Skyview Networks’ distribution and network sales expertise, we’re able to elevate our business across radio dials. This transition reflects our commitment to deliver superior 24/7 music programming to small and medium market stations every day, while increasing the power and flexibility affiliates have locally.”
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Tulsa, iHeartMedia brings Jadd Naamani in from the company’s CHR WERZ, Portsmouth, New Hampshire to program CHR KTBT “92.1 The Beat.” Naamani takes over for Trevor Morini, who’s moved to the company’s CHR KHFI, Austin…..Radio management pro Jack Taddeo announces he’s exiting NGR Media Waterloo-Cedar Falls and Cedar Rapids clusters for a new opportunity yet-to-be-announced…..Adams Radio Group is jumping from Eastlan Ratings to Nielsen Audio in its Las Cruces, New Mexico and Tallahassee, Florida markets. Adams entered into a new, five-year agreement with Nielsen for its Fort Wayne, Indiana and Salisbury-Ocean City, Maryland markets and added Las Cruces and Tallahassee to the deal…..Cumulus Media begins celebrating the 50th anniversary of rock KQRS-FM, Minneapolis-St. Paul, one of the nation’s original progressive/AOR radio stations. In recognition of the anniversary, the station has events scheduled through year-end. KQRS program director and Cumulus Media VP of classic rock Scott Jameson says, “We’re celebrating 50 incredible years of loyal listeners by thanking them with exciting events and premium experiences, and by broadcasting classic KQ moments throughout the year. In tandem with KQ’s 50 years on-air in the Twin Cities, we’re partnering with Bob Seger and Punch Andrews to celebrate “50 Years of Bob Seger,” highlighting his amazing career that also began in 1968. This terrific opportunity to recognize Bob’s contribution to Rock radio will be shared across other Cumulus classic rock stations nationwide and through our national network, Westwood One.”…..Radio sales pro Dave Cooper has been named general sales manager for Curtis Media’s country WQDR, Raleigh. He was most recently with Entercom’s KYKY and KEZK in St. Louis.
Round Two of June PPM Data Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s June 2018 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets, including: Washington, Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s June 2018 survey period covered May 24 – June 20. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all of these PPM markets below.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
Washington, DC
Spoken-Word Formats – Off two-tenths (9.7 – 9.5, 6+), Hubbard all-news WTOP nonetheless is #1 in the Nation’s Capital for the sixth time in a row. It rebounded from April’s -.8 with a +.1 in May (10.4 – 9.6 – 9.7, 6+). Following four consecutive months at
#1, WTOP shifted to second-place in “Holiday” 2017. With a +1.3 in January (9.3 – 10.6, 6+), however, it reclaimed the top spot with its best 6+-stat since March 2011’s 10.6. Moreover, that +1.3 halted three successive declines that produced an overall -.5 (9.8 – 9.6 – 9.4 – 9.3, 6+). Prior to November, WTOP was +1.6 in three straight upticks (8.2 – 8.9 – 9.4 – 9.8, 6+). This is the sixth successive sweep that American University-owned news/talk WAMU (flat at 8.3, 6+) is anchored in the runner-up slot; “The Mind Is Our Medium” was -1.1 in March. A collective -2.0 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (9.6 – 8.9 – 7.6, 6+), WAMU gained back 85% of that loss in January with a +1.7. It exited the 
top spot in September, after spending eight straight months there. February 2017’s 11.5 matches the highest 6+-share in its PPM-history first reached in December 2016. Three upticks in succession by Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” yield a +1.3 (2.4 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.7, 6+), as the Washington Nationals flagship moves from #13 to #11. Before notching a +.6 in January, “The Fan” was without an increase in four straight survey periods for a roughly 50% decline (-1.7) of its 6+ AQH share (3.5 – 3.5 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+). Conversely,
Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL is a combined -1.5 via three consecutive downward moves (5.0 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.5, 6+) and exits the top ten (#9 to #13). Back in March, WMAL reached the five-share level (6+) for the first time in the PPM-era (5.0). It was without an increase in November, December, and “Holiday” 2017 for an overall -1.0 (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+) before dialing up a +1.1 in January. Since surfacing in May 2017, Entercom business news WDCH is trending .3 – .4 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .5 – .4 – .5 – .4 – .3 (flat at #23, 6+).
Washington, DC Music Formats – Just as WTOP and WAMU dominate this market’s spoken-word conversation month after month, D.C. urban AC rivals WMMJ “Majic” and WHUR generally do the same in the music-intensive genre. Such is the case again in June, as after four straight reports without an increase for an overall -1.4 (7.1 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), Howard University’s WHUR erases nearly half the deficit with a +.6 to 6.3 – its best 6+-showing since January’s 7.1. In April, Radio One-owned “Majic” pulled ahead of WHUR for the first time since November 2015, which was when the two rivals were tied at 4.7 (6+). In each sweep since then, WHUR had been on top until WMMJ picked up two-tenths to 5.8, while WHUR faltered by four-tenths to 5.7. The momentum continues for “Majic,” which is without a loss for the fifth straight monthly report for a collective +1.5 (5.6 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 6.6 – 7.1, 6+) and registers the highest 6+-stat (7.1) in its PPM history. The two foes carry on at #3 (WMMJ) and #4 (WHUR). While unchanged at #7, Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX “Mix 107.3,” an overall +1.7 in six consecutive up or flat trends (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 4.4, 6+), falters in June by four-tenths to 4.0 (6+). Meanwhile, its format rival – Entercom’s WIAD “94.7 Fresh FM” – is trending 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.5 (6+) and climbs from #14 to #13. Steady the past five survey periods (3.9 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WIHT “Hot 99.5 – D.C.’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#11 to #10). Despite not showing an increase in each of the last five surveys, Radio One urban contemporary WKYS is down a modest two-tenths (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+) and remains at #12. Following a May debut to the top twenty (at #20), Hubbard regional Mexican WBQH “La Mera Mera 1050,” whose only trending thus far is .3 – .3 – .3 – .6 – .4 (6+), drops to #21.
Boston
Spoken-Word Formats – A June gain of one-tenth (5.3 – 5.4, 6+) enables iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM to climb from sixth to fifth. After three straight improvements for a cumulative +1.5 (4.9 – 5.2 – 5.4 – 6.4, 6+), “News 
Radio 1030” was -.9 in April; 6.4 in March is its best 6+-stat since January 2017’s 6.6. News/talk sibling WRKO “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” posts its third downward move in a row for a collective setback of seven-
tenths (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.3, #14 to #15, 6+). Separated by 1.7 (6+) in May, Beantown’s two FM sports talkers are now within two-tenths of each other as Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” erodes by -1.4 (5.7 – 4.3, fifth to eighth, 6+), while Entercom’s WEEI-FM picks up one-tenth (4.0 – 4.1, steady at #9, 6+). WBZ-FM was -1.5 in February. Meanwhile, Boston Red Sox flagship WEEI-FM was +1.0 in April, rebounding from a cumulative -2.0 in February and March
(5.4 – 4.1 – 3.4, 6+). WEEI-FM was +1.4 in January, halting three decreases in a row that produced an overall -1.9 (5.9 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+). Following eight straight sweeps without an increase (.2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WEEI-AM disappears from print in June. Boston University news/talk WBUR surrenders half of May’s +.6 (6.2 – 5.9, -.3, 6+) segueing from third to fourth, while WGBH Educational Foundation’s similarly-programmed WGBH falters by six-tenths in consecutive sweeps (4.7 – 4.1 – 3.5, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #11). WBUR was a collective -1.2 in December and “Holiday” 2017; +.7 in January; and +1.0 in March. WGBH was off two-tenths in both February and March and (as was the case with WBUR) improved by seven-tenths in January.
Boston Music Formats – Following three straight down or flat trends that accounted for a collective loss of one full-share (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.2 – 4.0, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WKLB “102.5 Boston’s Hottest Country” recaptures 70% of that loss with a +.7 to 4.7 (ninth to seventh, 6+). Its format rival, iHeartMedia’s WBWL “101.7 The Bull – Boston’s #1 for New Hit Country,” logs a month-to-month fluctuation of one-tenth for the fourth sweep in a row, (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.1, #16 to #17, 6+). Improving by six-tenths each are Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT “Hot 96.9” (3.4 – 4.0, 6+), which enters the top ten (#12 to #10), and iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WJMN “JAM’N 94.5” (2.3 – 2.9, #15 to #13, 6+). This (4.0) is the highest 6+-share for “Hot” since January 2017’s 4.4; WJMN is within 2.2 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 12th successive sweep. Flat at 7.3 (6+), mainstream CHR sibling WXKS-FM is on top for the sixth straight ratings period. “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” rebounded from a -.8 in “Holiday” 2017 with a +.9 in January (6.4 – 7.3, 6+) and was off by one-half share in April. It exited the top spot in December, after three straight months there. In five consecutive increases prior to the August 2017 report, WXKS-FM was a cumulative +1.9 (5.6 – 5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9 – 7.5, 6+). The “Holiday” 2017 – June 2018 topline trending for its format challenger, Entercom’s WODS “103.3 Amp Radio,” is 2.6 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.3 (#17 to #15, 6+). A combined +.8 in April and May (2.2 – 2.6 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WKAF “97.7 Boston’s #1 For R&B” relinquishes one-half share to 2.5 (#13 to #14, 6+). After being up nine-tenths in four successive positive spikes (5.4 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.2 – 6.3, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” slips by two-tenths to 6.1 (second to third, 6+).
Miami
English-Language, Spoken-Word Formats – Tied at #20 are iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” (1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #21 to #20, 6+) and Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN (2.1 – 2.0, flat at #20, 6+). A one-half share loss in May by WIOD pulled the plug on seven straight positive or flat trends that
netted an overall nine-tenths (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+). In advance of a +.5 in January, WLRN was a collective -.7 in three consecutive sweeps without an increase (2.6 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+). Locked together as well (as they were in May) are Entercom sports talk siblings WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (.9 – .8, flat at #25, 6+) and WQAM “Sports Radio 560” (.9 – .8, -.1, also flat at #25, 6+). June’s .8 (6+) by “the Ticket” halts five consecutive .9 postings (6+); a May gain of two-tenths by WQAM applies the brakes to five sweeps in succession without an increase for a collective -.8 (1.5 – 1.2 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .7, 6+).
Miami Music Formats – Without an increase the past nine reports for a collective -1.4 (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), Cox Media Group’s WFLC makes up nearly half the deficit with a +.6 to 3.7 (#14 to #11, 6+). By doing so, “Hits 97.3” overtakes its rival, iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which is off one-tenth (3.2 – 3.1, unchanged at #13, 6+). Stuck on 4.0 (6+) in January and February, “Y-100” eroded by eight-tenths in March. Prior to a setback of four-tenths in September, “Y-100” was a collective +.6 in three consecutive up or flat monthlies (3.7 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.3, 6+). These two CHRs were separated by one-tenth in April and May. Answering May’s -1.1 with a one-half share June increase (3.7 – 4.2, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WXDJ continues at #9. Immediately before May’s -1.1, “106.7 El Zol” was an overall +1.3 in four straight sweeps without a loss (3.5 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). Previous to the March sweep, “El Zol” last reached the four-share level (6+) in February 2017 (4.1). The game of musical chairs atop the leader board between two Cox Media Group siblings continues. Urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” held the lead in February (7.3, 6+) and March (6.8, 6+); co-owned adult contemporary WFEZ “Easy 93.1” took over in April (7.3, 6+); “Hot” returned in May (7.5, 6+); and now “Easy” is June’s pacesetter (7.3 – 7.5, +.2, 6+) with “Hot” segueing to second (7.5 – 7.1, -.4, 6+). A February +1.1 by “Hot” suspended four decreases in a row that accounted for a -1.6 (7.8 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.5 – 6.2, 6+). WHQT spent seven consecutive months at #1 before being ousted in December. Prior to April, “Easy” had been within 6.2 – 6.8 range (6+) in each of the previous 12 sweeps. The nine-tenths advantage it had in May over fellow AC – Entercom’s WLYF – nearly doubles as “101.5 Lite FM” falters by six-tenths (6.4 – 5.8, third to fourth, 6+). Up (slightly) or flat the past three survey periods for an overall +.4 (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+), co-owned WSFS “104.3 The Shark – South Florida’s Alternative” forfeits seven-tenths to 2.2 (#15 to #19, 6+).
Detroit
Spoken-Word Formats – Finishing at #4 and #5, respectively, are Entercom cluster-mates WWJ “News Radio 950” (flat at 5.8, third to fourth, 6+) and sports talk WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (5.3 – 5.6, +.3, steady at #5, 6+). Following four 
up or flat trends in succession for a collective +1.0, WWJ was -.8 in April. “News Radio 950” was within 5.2 – 5.9 territory (6+) between June 2017 and “Holiday” 2017. A combined -.6 in February and March, “97.1 The Ticket” was up nine-tenths in April. Prior to January’s +1.0, the 
Detroit Tigers flagship was a collective -2.2 as a result of four losses in a row. A setback of one-half share (4.2 – 3.7, 6+) knocks Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760” out of the top ten (#10 to #11). Prior to the January sweep, WJR was -.9 in three straight declines (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.5, 6+). While it remains at #19, Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM is down or flat for the sixth straight survey period but has lost just two-tenths in that timeframe (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+). Meanwhile, Wayne State University news/talk WDET is down or flat for the third successive time for a -.2 (.9 – .9 – .7 -.7, 6+) and remains at #22.
Detroit Music Formats – Three (modest) or flat moves in succession by Entercom’s WYCD accounted for a cumulative loss of one-half share (5.6 – 5.4 – 5.1 – 5.1, 6+), but “99.5 Detroit’s Best Country” erases all of it in June (5.6, +.5, seventh to fifth, 6+). Similarly-formatted/Cumulus Media-owned WDRQ “93.1 Nash FM” slips by two-tenths to 2.8 (flat at #16, 6+), thus suspending five consecutive up or flat moves that netted nine-tenths (2.1 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). Halted at five straight as well is the progressive streak fashioned by Beasley Media Group’s WCSX which generated a +2.5 (5.4 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.7 – 7.6 – 7.9, 6+) but “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” (7.7, -.2, 6+) repeats at #1. After four straight months at #1, Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC fell to #2 in May. That was when it lost eight-tenths, ending four consecutive up or flat sweeps that netted an overall +1.8 (6.1 – 6.7 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.9, 6+). Now in June, “Detroit’s Greatest Hits” declines by another six-tenths (7.1 – 6.5, unchanged at #2, 6+). Not only does Beasley Media Group’s WRIF inch up from fourth to third with its fourth consecutive positive spike for a combined +1.1 (4.4 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 5.5 – 5.9, 6+), “Everything That Rocks” logs its strongest 6+-stat (5.9) since January 2017 (5.9, as well). In the market’s CHR contest, iHeartMedia’s WKQI “Channel 95.5 – Detroit’s #1 Hit Music Station” is without an increase for the fifth successive sweep for an overall -.7 (4.8 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+) but re-enters the top ten (#11 to #10). At the same time, Entercom’s similarly-programmed WDZH “98.7 Amp Radio” applies the brakes to three straight setbacks of one-tenth each (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+) with a +.3 to 2.7 (#18 to #17, 6+).
Seattle
Spoken-Word Formats – The ten most recent (6+) trends for KIRO-FM are 5.7 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 5.8 and while the Bonneville news/talker is even at 5.8 (6+), it progresses from fourth to second. On the heels of May’s -.5, Northwest Public Radio news/talker KUOW regresses by an additional six-tenths in June (6.0 – 5.4, 6+),
shifting from second to fifth. It took over the runner-up slot in May after a one-month stay at #1. On top for four straight months before dropping to second in December, KUOW was +1.5 in January (6.4 – 7.9, 6+) as it returned to #1. When it lost six-tenths in “Holiday” 2017, KUOW 
ended five consecutive up or flat trends that netted a +1.3 (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.5 – 7.0, 6+). As a result of four positive spikes in succession (2.3 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), co-owned sports talk KIRO-AM is a combined +1.9 as “ESPN 710” (eighth to ninth) nearly doubles its 6+ AQH share. Prior to May, the Seattle Mariners flagship last reached the four-share level (6+) in October 2015 (4.3). Returning two-tenths of May’s +.3 (2.6 – 2.4, 6+), Sinclair Broadcast Group’s all-news KOMO slips from #19 to #20.
This is the third report in a row that Bonneville’s KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” has recorded a 2.0 (#22 to #21, 6+). As a result of four losses in a row, KTTH was -.8 (2.6 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.8, October 2017 – January 2018, 6+). The (6+) topline February 2018 – June 2018 trending for Sinclair’s KVI “Talk Radio 570” is 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 (flat at #24, 6+); iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” repeats June’s .6 and stays at #27 (6+).
Seattle Music Formats – Having faltered by seven-tenths in May to 3.0 – its lowest 6+-share since January 2017’s 3.0 – public KNKX “Your Connection to Jazz and Blues” answers in June with a +.6 to 3.6, jumping from #17 to #12 (6+). Prior to May, KNKX was consistently within 3.6 – 3.9 territory in each of the previous nine sweeps (3.8 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+). There is a tie at #14 between the market’s two country FMs – Hubbard’s KNUC “98.9 The Bull” (formerly KVRQ) and Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf” (3.6 – 3.4, -.2, #12 to #14, 6+). In six straight survey periods without a loss, “The Bull” has more than tripled (+2.4) its 6+-stat (1.0 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 2.0 – 2.8 – 3.4, #18 to #14, 6+) and reaches the three-share level (3.4) for the first time since September 2017’s 3.1. An increase of two-tenths (5.9 – 6.1, 6+) is enough to lift its CHR sibling KQMV “MOViN 92.5” from third to first. Ousted from the top spot after just one month and drifting to fifth is Entercom’s KISW “99.9 The Rock of Seattle” (5.4, -.8, 6+), which had notched an increase six times in the previous seven sweeps for an overall +2.5 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.6 – 5.5 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.2, 6+). Co-owned rhythmic hot AC KHTP “Hot 103.7 – 100% Throwbacks” (2.8, #13 to #17, 6+) returns in its entirety the six-tenths it gained in three straight (modest) increases (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+). Still in that Hubbard cluster, adult contemporary KRWM adds three-tenths to 5.0 (6+) and is anchored at #7. In advance of June’s improvement, “Warm 106.9” was -7.1 (or down roughly 60%) in five successive down or flat sweeps (11.8 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). Its 11.8 in “Holiday” 2017 was the station’s strongest 6+-stat since 13.4 in “Holiday” 2015. Owing to a +.4 in November, “Warm” – which was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2017 – halted three straight down or flat trends that generated a combined -1.2 (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 4.9, 6+). Format challenger, Entercom’s KSWD, is an overall -.8 in three straight down or flat trends (4.1 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3, #14 to #16, 6+); “The Sound” posted a one-half share gain in March (3.6 – 4.1, 6+). Without an improvement for the fifth time in a row for a cumulative -1.3 (4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KBKS “106.1 Kiss FM – Seattle’s New Hit Music” dips from #16 to #17. At the same time, Sinclair Broadcast Group’s similarly-programmed KPLZ “Star” picks up three-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.3, ninth to eighth, 6+). Crista Media religious teaching KCIS – which notched a .5 (6+) in May – disappears from print in June.
Phoenix
Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of two-tenths (2.5 – 2.7, 6+) enables iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” to advance from #17 to #14. When KFYI lost one-tenth in March,
it ended at three its successive string of upticks that netted nine-tenths (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.1 – 2.4, 6+). Remaining at #11, KTAR-FM is a combined -.5 in May and June, after April’s +.3 (3.6 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+). The Bonneville news/talker was +.8 in January (3.2 – 4.0, 6+) but an overall -.7 in February and March (4.0 – 3.5 – 3.3, 6+). Sports talk 
sibling KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports,” a collective +1.1 in three straight positive spikes (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.3 – 2.6, 6+), slips by one-tenth to 2.5 (6+) yet advances from #16 to #15. Prior to the just-concluded positive streak, the Arizona Diamondbacks flagship registered four consecutive down or flat trends in which it lost 50% of its 6+ AQH share (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.1 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+). KMVP-FM faltered by one-half share in August 2017 and was a combined +1.5 in September and October (1.5 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+). In three consecutive negative moves, Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ is a combined -1.5 (3.9 – 3.6 – 2.7 – 2.4, #14 to #17, 6+).
Phoenix Music Formats – Owing to three straight upticks, Entercom rhythmic CHR KALV “Live 101.5” is a combined +1.3 (3.0 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.3, ninth to eighth 6+). By posting a +.8 to 5.3 (seventh to fourth, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KMXP “Mix 96.9” regains 80% of the collective one full-share it lost in April and May (5.5 – 4.7 – 4.5, 6+). Co-owned adult hits KYOT “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” logs a June improvement of eight-tenths as well (3.5 – 4.3, 6+) bumping up from tenth to ninth. As a result of its +.7, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVK “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” doubles its 6+ AQH share (.7 – 1.4, #26, 6+). Anchored in the runner-up slot for the eighth consecutive sweep, Hubbard’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” is without a loss for the sixth time in succession for a +1.1 (5.5 – 5.8 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.6, 6+). On top for the eighth time in a row, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ follows May’s mammoth +1.7 with a -.3 (9.0 – 8.7, 6+). A combined -9.8 in three straight declines (16.4 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.6, 6+), KESZ was up seven-tenths in April; 16.4 in “Holiday” 2017 was its strongest 6+-showing since 16.5 in “Holiday” 2016. KESZ was an overall +10.2 in December and “Holiday” 2017. Via five straight improvements, mainstream CHR sibling KZZP precisely doubled (+3.0) its 6+-share (3.0 – 4.0 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.4 – 6.0, 6+), but “104.7 Kiss FM – The #1 Hit Music Station in Phoenix” relinquishes seven-tenths to 5.3 (third to fourth, 6+). Faltering by seven-tenths as well is Farmworker Educational Radio regional Mexican KNAI “101.9 Campesina,” which was -.8 in May (4.0 – 3.2 – 2.5, #12 to #15, 6+).
Minneapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Despite being flat at 2.7 (6+), Hubbard news/talk KTMY “My Talk 107.1” progresses from #16 to #15. Its loss of three-tenths in March stopped four straight up or flat moves that generated a +1.2 (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 3.3, 6+). This marks the third negative move in a row for Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW for a collective -1.5
(5.9 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.4, eighth to ninth, 6+). Its recent fluctuations include -.7 (February); +.7 (March); -.5 (April) and +.7 (May). Until it reached 5.9 (6+) in January, KNOW’s September 2017 – “Holiday” 2017 topline 6+ trending was 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2. Finishing at #11 and #12, respectively, are iHeartMedia-owned sports 
talk KFXN “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” and Entercom-owned WCCO “News Radio 830”; both were tied for eighth-place in May. A collective -1.8 in three decreases in a row (5.8 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 4.0, 6+), “K-Fan” was -1.5 in February. Frozen on 4.4 (6+) in December 2017 and “Holiday” 2017 and then on 5.0 (6+) in January 2018 and February, Minnesota Twins flagship WCCO was +.8 (April); -.8 (May); and -.8 again in June (4.7 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 3.9, 6+). Following five successive sweeps without a loss for an overall +1.4 (2.5 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” sputters by six-tenths to 3.3 (#12 to #14, 6+). Trending 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – .8 (6+), Hubbard sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” moves from #21 to #22.
Minneapolis Music Formats – A gain of eight-tenths to 4.9 (6+) by University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM more than wipes out an overall loss of six-tenths that resulted in three straight down or flat moves (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.1, 6+) as “98.8 Twin Cities Christian Radio” returns to the top ten (#11 to #8). This (4.9) is its best 6+-showing since November 2017’s 5.3. In four consecutive sweeps without a loss, American Public Media Group classical KSJN is up a collective nine-tenths (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.7, #17 to #15, 6+). Within 3.4 – 3.9 range (6+) between January and May (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom’s KMNB notches a one-half share improvement to 4.2, its strongest 6+-stat since September 2017’s 4.4, as “BUZ’N @ 102.9” cracks the top ten (#13 to #10, 6+). Meanwhile, flat at #5, iHeartMedia-owned KEEY “K-102 Minnesota’s Country Station” is +2.3 via six successive sweeps without a loss (3.4 – 4.5 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+). January’s +1.1 halted six straight down or flat trends that accounted for a combined -2.9 (6.3 – 6.2 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 3.4, 6+). Off a cumulative eight-tenths in May and June (8.6 – 7.9 – 7.8, 6+), Hubbard hot AC KSTP-FM “KS-95” is nonetheless #1 for the sixth sweep in a row. Its -.7 in May pulled the plug on four successive progressive moves that netted a +2.8 (5.8 – 7.6 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 8.6, 6+). Following three straight up or flat trends that accounted for a one-half share increase (6.6 – 6.6 – 6.9 – 7.1, 6+), “KS-95” was a combined -1.3 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (7.1 – 6.5 – 5.8, 6+). Progressing from #14 to #13, iHeartMedia’s similarly-programmed KTCZ “The Cities” is up a collective six-tenths in three consecutive (modest) upticks (3.2 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+). Co-owned KQQL “Kool 108 – Minnesota’s Greatest Hits” falters by four-tenths to 7.3 (6+), snapping three straight improvements for a combined +1.4 (6.3 – 6.5 – 6.7 – 7.7, second to third, 6+); 7.7 in May is the station’s best 6+-stat since 14.2 in “Holiday” 2017.
San Diego
Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to a +.1 to 1.6 (flat at #22, 6+), Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760 Talk & Breaking News” halts three straight negative moves that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+). Earlier, it netted one half-share in 
three straight up or flat trends (1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.2, 6+). It is another round of musical chairs for San Diego State University-owned news/talk KPBS, which shifted from first to second in April; returned to #1 in May; and drops from first to third in June (6.4 – 5.5, -.9, 6+). December’s four-tenths increase curtailed three straight down or flat monthlies that accounted for an overall -.6 (6.2 – 6.2 – 6.0 – 5.6, 6+). November’s +.5 (to 5.3, 6+) ended four straight decreases that yielded a cumulative -1.4 (6.2 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.2 – 4.8, 6+). KPBS was on top four times in 2017: February, August, September, and December. It is four-tenths ahead of iHeartMedia news/talk
KOGO “News Radio 600” (5.3 – 5.1, -.2, third to fourth, 6+), which more than compensated with April’s -.4 by adding six-tenths in May. KOGO was -3.0 in three successive major declines (7.2 – 6.6 – 5.4 – 4.2, 6+). It was +.8 in January; -.7 in February; +.8 in March; and +.6 in May. When KOGO lost six-tenths in November, its successive string of up or flat monthlies that generated a collective +1.9 was snapped at four (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 7.2, 6+); October 2017’s 7.2 is KOGO’s highest 6+-share in its PPM-history. The market’s three main sports talk competitors are bunched together. Specifically, Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM “The Mighty 1090” is up one-tenth (1.0 – 1.1, #24 to #23, 6+); Entercom-owned/San Diego Padres flagship KWFN “97.3 The Fan” improves by three-tenths (.7 – 1.0, #27 to #25, 6+); and iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” drops one-tenth (1.0 – .9, #24 to #26, 6+).
San Diego Music Formats – The rollercoaster ride continues for Entercom classic hits-oldies KXSN “Sunny 98.1 – San Diego’s Greatest Hits,” which registered a -1.6 in March, all but obliterating its +1.9 through five straight gains (4.8 – 5.3 – 5.8 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.7, 6+). “Sunny” rebounded in April with a +.5; was -.7 in May; and now answers with a +.8 in June (4.9 – 5.7, 6+), jumping from sixth to second. Co-owned KBZT “Alt 94.9 San Diego’s Alternative” breaks out a +.8 as well (2.6 – 3.4, #16 to #12, 6+). Posting gains of one-half share each are Local Media San Diego-operated Comunicación XERSA XHRM “Magic 92.5” (4.5 – 5.0, seventh to fifth, 6+) and iHeartMedia urban contemporary KSSX “JAM’N 95.7,” which completely wipes away May’s -.5 (3.1 – 2.6 – 3.1, #16 to #15, 6+). After three upticks in a row that produced a +1.1 (3.8 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.9, 6+), “Magic 92.5” sputtered by four-tenths in May. A gain of two-tenths (6.1 – 6.3, 6+) is enough to push Entercom-owned KSON “103.7 San Diego’s #1 New Country” from second to first. Its -.1 in April ended three straight positive trends that netted a cumulative +2.5 (3.6 – 4.7 – 5.5 – 6.1, 6+). On top in April as well, KSON was -1.1 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (4.6 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+). Faltering by six-tenths are Local Media San Diego-operated CHR XHTZ “Z-90.3 Today’s Hit Music” (4.5 – 3.9, seventh to ninth, 6+) and Imagen Spanish contemporary XLTN “104.5 Radio Latina” (4.0 – 3.4, #11 to #12, 6+).
Denver
Spoken-Word Formats – It’s a brief one-month stay at #1 for Colorado Public Radio news/talk KCFR, which tumbles to fifth (6.0 – 5.3, -.7, 6+). In addition to being on top in May, KCFR was #1 in January and March, as well. When it lost six-tenths in February, the station’s consecutive string of improvements that netted a cumulative +1.5 (4.5 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 6.0,
6+) ended at three. It is overtaken by iHeartMedia news/talk KOA which regains half the eight-tenths it lost in May (5.0 – 5.4, +.4, fifth to fourth, 6+); KOA exited the top spot in May after a one-month run. Following January’s one-half share loss, the flagship of the Colorado Rockies picked up one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+) and posted a +1.4 in April to zoom from ninth to first. Prior to April, “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” last reached the five-share level (6+) in October 
(5.2). January’s 4.2 was its lowest 6+-share since 3.5 in March 2017. Down or flat the past four sweeps for an overall setback of four-tenths (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.0 -1.9, 6+), news/talk cluster-mate KHOW “Talk Radio 630” picks up three-tenths to 2.2 (#20 to #19, 6+). Off by four-tenths in April but then up two-tenths in May, Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” regresses by one-half share in June (3.5 – 3.0, #13 to #15, 6+). KKFN was +1.0 in March; its +.4 in January curtailed three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a cumulative -1.3 (4.5 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.2, 6+). Having recorded a .7 (6+) in each of the last three sweeps, Community Radio for Northern California news/talk KUNC logs a three-tenths boost to 1.0 (#27 to #26, 6+).
Denver Music Formats – Classic rock is the huge market headline this month as Entercom’s KQMT “99.5 The Mountain – A Mountain of Classics” hangs out a +1.2 (4.9 – 6.1, 6+), while iHeartMedia-owned KRFX “103.5 The Fox” erodes by nearly that same margin (4.8 – 3.7, -1.1, 6+). “The Mountain” elevates from sixth to first with its best 6+-performance (6.1) since July 2017’s 6.4. At the same time, “The Fox” drifts out of the top ten (#7 to #11), falling below a four-share (3.7, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2015’s 3.9. This is the fourth month in a row that Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI is up or flat for a full-share gain (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.6, 6+) – “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” progresses from fourth to third. Following back-to-back gains of one-tenth (3.3 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KPTT erupts with a +.9 to 4.4, its strongest 6+-performance since August 2017 (4.4, as well) as “95.7 The Party – Denver’s #1 Hit Music Station” crashes the top ten (#14 to #8). Three consecutive up or flat trends by KSE Radio Ventures classic hits-oldies KXKL net one full-share (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.6, 6+) but “Kool 105 – Denver’s Greatest Hits” surrenders 60% of that increase with a -.6 to 5.0 (third to sixth, 6+). May’s 5.6 is its most potent 6+-stat since December 2016’s 5.7. In the market’s hot AC contest, Entercom’s KALC “Alice 105.9” is flat at 3.9 (#11 to #10, 6+) yet overtakes KSE Radio Ventures’ KIMN “Mix 100 – Today’s Best Mix” (4.0 – 3.6, -.4, #10 to #12, 6+). Ever since appearing in print, iHeartMedia’s KBWL racked up three straight increases for a collective +.7 (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0, February – March – April – May, 6+), but “106.7 The Bull – Colorado’s New Country” forfeits three-tenths to 2.7 (#15 to #16, 6+). A combined -1.6 in four straight decreases (4.3 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLDV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” remains at #16 where it is part of a three-way logjam. Following five successive sweeps without an increase for a cumulative loss of nine-tenths (2.6 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+), Colorado Public Radio classical KVOD logged a +.5 in May to 2.2 (6+). That, however, is erased in its entirety in June (1.7, -.5, 6+) as KVOD departs the top twenty (#19 to #21).
Tampa
Spoken-Word Formats – Despite dropping one-tenth (4.4 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” climbs from tenth to ninth. The +.1 pulls the plug on five sweeps in a row in which WFLA had a (6+) 
fluctuation of at least four-tenths. In January and February it was a +.5 (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+); -.5 in March (3.7 – 3.2, 6+); +.8 in April (3.2 – 4.0, 6+); and +.4 in May (4.0 – 4.4, 6+). Having notched a 2.7 in three of the past four ratings periods (2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” gains two-tenths to 2.9 (#16 to #15, 6+). A one-tenth setback in April ended three straight (modest) increases that produced a +.5 (2.3 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+), while a January gain of three-tenths curtailed four straight down or flat trends for a collective -1.1 (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.3, 6+). Unchanged at #18, iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Tampa Bay Rays flagship), which had been up or flat in each of the last five survey periods for a +.8 (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+), drops one-tenth to 2.2 (6+). Conversely, University of South Florida news/talk WUSF adds two-tenths to 1.9 (flat at #20, 6+), thus ending six successive ratings periods without an increase that accounted for a collective -1.6 (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+).
Tampa Music Formats – It’s a solid month in this Florida market for the various shades of adult contemporary, led by Cox Media Group’s WDUV “Lite Favorites,” which is not only on top for a staggering 70th successive ratings period, but posts its fourth straight up or flat trend (8.4 – 8.9 -9.0 – 9.0 – 9.1, 6+) and is +.7 in that timeframe. “Lite Favorites” was -3.5 in January and February (11.9 – 8.8 – 8.4, 6+), following a +1.5 in “Holiday” 2017 (10.4 – 11.9, 6+). Moving up from sixth to fifth, co-owned adult contemporary WWRM “Magic 94.9 Tampa Bay’s Best Music” gains four-tenths (5.0 – 5.4, 6+). Thus far this calendar year (January 2018 – May 2018), Beasley Media Group’s WPBB has a topline of 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 1.9 (6+), but AC “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” registers a June +.6 to 2.5 (#19 to #17), its best (6+) showing since 4.0 in “Holiday” 2017. Displaying a +.6 as well is co-owned WQYK “99.5 Tampa Bay’s New Country Hits” (6.1 – 6.7, third to second, 6+). After four straight sweeps without a loss for a net gain of eight-tenths (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WFUS “US-103.5 Tampa Bay’s #1 for New Country” falters by four-tenths to 4.9 (fifth to sixth, 6+). May’s 5.3 is the strongest 6+-stat for WFUS since 6.0 in December 2017. Repeating in the runner-up slot, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WXGL “107.3 The Eagle” posts a one-half share improvement (6.2 – 6.7, 6+), while Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WRBQ “Q-105” regains the three-tenths it lost in May (5.8 – 5.5 – 5.8, 6+) and carries on at #4. As the result of four straight up or flat trends (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 4.7, unchanged at #7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WXTB is a combined +.8 as “98 Rock” has its best 6+-showing since October 2017 (4.7, as well). Finishing back-to-back are its CHR cluster-mate WFLZ “93.3 – Tampa Bay’s #1 Hit Music Channel” (4.0 – 3.7, -.3, #11 to #12, 6+) and format rival – Cox Media Group’s WPOI “Hot 101.5” (3.4 – 3.5, +.1, steady at #13, 6+).
Baltimore
Spoken-Word Formats – Slipping from seventh to ninth, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” was +.6 (January); -.6 (February); +1.0 (April); and is now a combined -1.0 in May and June (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.0, 6+). When the Orioles flagship improved by two-tenths in “Holiday” 2017, it brought to a close three straight downward moves
producing an overall -1.8 (5.6 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 3.8, 6+). For the fourth consecutive time, WAMU records a 1.1 (6+) in Baltimore – the American University-owned news/talker is flat at #15. This is the fifth decrease in a row by Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” for a cumulative -1.7 (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.5, #11 to #14, 6+). 
Independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” is up one-tenth (2.8 – 2.9, #12 to #11, 6+), while Hearst Television news/talker WBAL registers a 2.8 (6+) for the third straight month and carries on at #12. Immediately prior to January 2018, WBAL’s (6+) topline included five successive sweeps without an increase for a collective -.4. Radio One news/talk WOLB “1010 News Radio,” which was trending .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .2 (6+), vanished in February in March; resurfaced in April with a .2 (#22, 6+); but disappears in May and June.
Baltimore Music Formats – Without a loss for the sixth consecutive ratings period for an overall +1.8 (3.4 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.2, 6+), Hearst Television’s WIYY “98 Rock” carries on at #6. Trending 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4 (6+) since January, iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR “102.7 Jack-FM Playing What We Want” hangs out a +.8 to 5.2 (eighth to sixth, 6+). This (5.2) is the best 6+-showing for Baltimore’s version of “Jack” since August 2017’s 5.7. A one-half share gain by co-owned WPOC (5.5 – 6.0, 6+) takes “93.1 – Baltimore’s #1 for New Country” from fifth to fourth (6+). WPOC was a combined -2.6 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (7.2 – 6.2 – 4.6, 6+); +2.5 in January; -.9 in February, -1.5 in April; +.6 in May; and now +.5 in June. Jumping by one-half share as well is Radio One urban contemporary WERQ “92-Q Jams” (6.6 – 7.1, repeating at #2, 6+). This (7.1) represents the best 6+-share for WERQ since September 2017’s 7.8. In three successive decreases (11.6 – 11.5 – 10.3 – 9.4, 6+), urban AC sibling WWIN was an overall -2.2 but “Magic 95.9” bounces back with a +.3 to 9.7 (6+) and is #1 for the sixth month in a row. It occupied the top spot for four sweeps in succession before segueing to #2 in December. After going eight straight sweeps without a loss for an overall +3.8 (7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 8.7 – 9.2 – 10.4 – 10.6 – 11.6, 6+), “Magic” lost one-tenth in March. Entering the November 2017 ratings period, WWIN-FM was down or flat in each of the previous four monthlies for a collective -.6 (8.4 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+). Unchanged at #10, iHeartMedia CHR WZFT “Z-104.3 Baltimore’s #1 Hit Music Station” hasn’t had an increase the past four sweeps and is down one-half share in that timeframe (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+).
St. Louis
Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of May’s +.2, Entercom news/talk KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” forfeits three-tenths (8.3 – 8.0, 6+) but the St. Louis Cardinals
flagship – which was a whopping +2.3 in April – repeats at #1. May’s 8.3 represents the highest 6+-stat for KMOX since September 2017’s 8.4. Following a January +1.0, KMOX was a combined -.6 in February and March. As a result of four decreases in succession (8.4 – 8.0 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.4, 6+), “The Voice of St. Louis” was a cumulative -3.0 and had its lowest 6+-share since January’s 5.0. An October loss of four-tenths ended at three its consecutive winning streak which generated a collective +1.1 since June (7.3 – 7.5 – 7.7 – 8.4, 6+). Finishing back-to-back 
are co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1” (2.8 – 3.3, +.5, #15 to #14, 6+) and University of Missouri news/talk KWMU (2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #14 to #15, 6+). Owing to May’s +.3, KFTK ended three straight negative moves that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+). Prior to a January gain of seven-tenths, KFTK was a cumulative -1.4 in three consecutive decreases (4.0 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.6, 6+). By registering a half-share increase in January, KWMU halted three successive downward moves that accounted for a -.9 (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). Off by an overall half-share in February and March (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+), it added one-tenth in April. As a result of three straight negative moves, Hubbard sports talk WXOS “101 Sports” is down eight-tenths (3.5 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.7, #15 to #17, 6+). A combined -.7 from November through “Holiday” 2017 (3.9 – 3.4 – 3.2, 6+), “101 Sports” posted a +.8 in January; -.6 in February; +.1 in March; and -.6 in April.
St. Louis Music Formats – A sizeable January 2018 drop-off followed its “Holiday” 2017 10.1 (6+), but Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “102.5 The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” (steady at #7) is an overall +1.7 in five consecutive up or flat trends (4.2 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.9, 6+). Unlisted fin each of the last 18 survey periods, Gateway Creative contemporary Christian KLJY “99.1 Joy FM” returns with a +.7 (5.9 – 6.6, 6+) and finishes in fourth-place. Notching a +.7 as well is Hubbard rocker KSHE (6.2 – 6.9, fourth to second, 6+). By logging a one-half share increase in May, KSHE stymied three consecutive downward trends that accounted for a -1.2 (6.9 – 6.7 – 5.9 – 5.7, 6+). Co-owned WIL “92.3 – Nobody Plays More New Country,” which had been without a loss the past six sweeps for a +1.9 (5.3 – 5.4 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 7.2, 6+), erodes by -1.1 to 6.1 (third to sixth, 6+). Following a one-half share May increase, Radio One urban contemporary WHHL “Hot 104.1” relinquishes twice that margin (3.9 – 2.9, -1.0, #12 to #16, 6+). May’s 3.9 is its best 6+-showing since 4.3 in “Holiday” 2017. Regressing by one full-share as well is iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU (7.9 – 6.9, 6+) but “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” remains in the runner-up slot; KLOU sputtered by one-half share in May (8.4 – 7.9, 6+). After being #1 for four consecutive months, “St Louis’ Greatest Hits” shifted to #2. A combined -2.0 in January and February (9.5 – 7.9 – 7.5, 6+), KLOU made up 45% of that loss in March and April (7.5 – 8.3 – 8.4, 6+). It rebounded from December’s -.8 with a +2.2 in “Holiday” 2017. Prior to November, when it gained nine-tenths, KLOU was down or flat the previous three monthlies for a -1.3 (8.5 – 8.5 – 7.7 – 7.2, 6+). This marks the fifth successive negative move by Radio One urban AC WFUN “95.5 R&B + Old School For The Lou” for an overall -1.5 (6.8 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.3, fifth to eighth, 6+).
Monday, July 2, 2018
Price: Who Else Must Die? Business continuity expert Howard B. Price writes about the importance of security at media outlet offices in the aftermath of the deadly attack on the Annapolis, Maryland newspaper Capital Gazette. “This is not the time for the media to cower in fear. This is the time for action. This is the time to stop talking about this issue of violence perpetrated against members of the media – and start DOING SOMETHING…The work we do every day – and the toxic environment in which we do it now – exposes print and broadcast journalists, crews and support staff to unspeakable risks that would have been unheard of just a few short years ago, except in war zones and riots. Yet, most often the response within our industry is – crickets. Or a series of lame excuses. Or an unending game of kick the can into the next budget cycle. Or the next. Or the next.” Read what Price has to say about developing a security and safety plan here.
Iowa Sports Media Pro Larry Cotlar Dies in Des Moines Flash Flood. Central Iowa sports radio personality Larry Cotlar died on Saturday (6/30) after being swept away by flash flood waters in Des Moines. The 65-year-old broadcaster had been the voice of Drake University men’s basketball for the
past 12 seasons and was currently hosting a weekly sports talk show on Saga Communications’ KRNT, Des Moines “1350 ESPN.” According to WHO-TV, Cotlar’s van became stalled in high waters. Cotlar and unnamed occupants left the van but Cotlar was swept away. His body was found several hours later a couple of blocks from the van. Cotlar started his sports radio career on WHO-AM in 1981. He’s also served at Des Moines stations KXNO and KBGG in addition to producing and co-hosting the “Out of Bounds” show on KCCI-TV. Saga issued the following statement: “All of us at 1350 ESPN and the Des Moines Radio Group are devastated by the loss of our voice, our colleague, and our friend, Larry Cotlar… today, our thoughts are with his wife, Deb and their son, Zach. There is absolutely no replacing Larry. He will be thought of fondly and missed greatly by his family, friends, and his extended families in the sports and broadcasting communities.”
WCCO, Minneapolis’ John Hines to Retire at Summer’s End. Minneapolis-St. Paul news/talk station WCCO-AM announces that late morning talk show
host John Hines is retiring from his position at the end of the summer (though he will continue to do part-time fill-in work for the station). He’s been with WCCO since 2012. He released a statement saying, “I am thankful to the many listeners who have supported me over the years and to WCCO in allowing me the opportunity to extend my career these past years. I am also pleased that WCCO has invited me to stay on in a part-time/fill in capacity.” During his career in the Twin Cities, he’s worked at WWTC, KSTP-AM, WLOL-AM, and KSTP-TV, among others.
Mike Valenti Signs New Deal with WXYT-FM, Detroit. Motor City sports talk personality Mike Valenti signs a new, long-term deal with Entercom sports
talker WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” to continue as host of the 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm program. Valenti is a native New Yorker who made his way to Michigan to study at Michigan State and began his radio career as a producer in the Lansing market. Prior to joining WXYT-FM in 2007, he was co-host of “The Sports Inferno” on WXYT-AM. Entercom Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon says, “Mike is an extraordinary talent who has a great rapport with Detroit sports fans. He has built a dedicated listener base and we’re thrilled to have him on the 97.1 team for years to come.”
Ex-“stream”-ly Enlightening Net Results. TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian takes a look at how stations’ streams add to their (6+) ratings, based on data from Nielsen Audio’s PPM surveys. Kinosian notes that during the most recent survey, “Among all formats throughout the entire 48 PPM markets, there are only 34 instances of a station’s online ‘stream’ appearing in print during the May 2018 sweep.” See which stations are getting credit for streaming listening and how it affects their overall ratings in Kinosian’s report here.
TALKERS Continues Posting Videos Today of the Recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! Convention – Today’s Post: Special Presentation by WFAN, New York, Afternoon Drive Mega-Star, Mike Francesa. Today (7/2), TALKERS magazine continues posting individual events from the recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! convention held in New York City on June 8. Each business day, another session will be posted in the order that they originally took place. Today’s sixth installment features the special presentation by WFAN personality Mike Francesa titled “Sports Talk’s Role in Media and Popular Culture” with an introduction by author and former radio producer Bernadette Duncan. Videos already posted include: Salem SVP Phil Boyce’s address titled “What Has Donald Trump Done to Talk Radio?” Last week’s posts also include the Fireside Chat between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley including Harrison’s presentation of the 2018 “Woman of the Year” award to Beasley; Harrison’s Fireside Chat with FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel mega-star Brian Kilmeade with an introduction by Westwood One syndicated host Walter Sterling and special remarks by Sean Hannity; opening remarks by the convention’s co-emcees, TalkersRadio GM, David Bernstein and Good Day Networks/DJV Show CEO/host, Doug Stephan; KGO, San Francisco host, Ethan Bearman delivering the event’s welcoming remarks and Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host, Brad Shepard introduction of Bearman. Also posted: the presentation of the Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech (“Freedom of Speech Award”) by TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian to SiriusXM Satellite Radio host, book publisher, Hunter College professor, and former New York Daily News/Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, Karen Hunter. To view the page, please click here.
Talk Host Phil Valentine and Book Publisher Question Google’s Ad Rejection. As regular TALKERS readers are probably aware, Nashville-based, nationally syndicated talk host Phil Valentine is an author and filmmaker in
addition to his radio work. He just published his latest novel, a spy-thriller titled, Barbican: A Sterling McQueen Spy Story, and publisher Oxley Durchville created a 30-second video ad to promote the book and submitted it to Google Adworks. They were surprised when the ad was rejected for “dangerous and derogatory content.” They’ve reached out to Google for further explanation but have not yet heard back. You can see the ad here. Oxley Durchville and Valentine are concerned the rejection has nothing to do with the ad but with Valentine being a conservative talk host. After viewing the ad, the consensus among TALKERS editors is that a rushed and harried censor probably noted the tone of the ad, saw the phrase “politically incorrect” connected with the book cover’s swastika image, and arrived at this conclusion. Time will tell if the two parties can resolve this issue.
Giordano Hosts Eagles QB Nick Foles at Speaker Series. Pictured above is WPHT, Philadelphia talk show host Dom Giordano (left) chatting with Philadelphia Eagles QB – and Super Bowl LII MVP – Nick Foles (right). The interview was a special installment of the station’s “Speakers Series.” Foles talked about his new book, Believe It: My Journey of Success, Failure and Overcoming the Odds (2018, Tyndale Momentum). WPHT says listeners who attended the live event made it the largest audience to date for the series.
Veteran Talk Show Host Mike Siegel Broadcasts from the Free Iran 2018 Rally in Paris. Longtime radio talk show host and author Mike Siegel brought
his microphone to Paris where he conducted numerous interviews on the site of yesterday’s (7/1) Free Iran 2018 rally. The rally is an annual call for a democratic Iran and included hundreds of dignitaries from around the world joining tens of thousands of Iranians supporting the ousting of the nation’s authoritarian regime. Pictured is Siegel (right) interviewing former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani (left) who was one of the many speakers at the event.
TALKERS News Notes. The weekend “Hugh Hewitt Show” on MSNBC has aired its last episode. During Saturday’s program – which was a “best-of”
format – Hewitt announced the end of the show that began a year ago. He offered no reason, but Mediaite’s coverage of the story notes that the weekend edition of “FOX & Friends” on FOX News Channel topped Hewitt’s program in the ratings. The Salem Radio Network-syndicated radio personality did say he will remain with MSNBC as a contributor and a guest on “Meet the Press.”…..The nationally syndicated “Free Talk Live” program adds new affiliates. The Saturday night edition of the show is airing on Entercom’s WRKO, Boston. Other new stations include: KYCA-AM/FM, Prescott, Arizona; and WRKQ-AM, Madisonville, Tennessee. “Free Talk Live” is heard on 190 affiliate stations…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that journalist, author, and radio personality Amy Guth is named executive director of the Midwest Independent Film Festival. Guth is a weekend personality on Tribune’s news/talk WGN.
Air Personality and Programmer Richard “Box” Bachschmidt Dead After Suicide. Radio programming and on-air pro Richard “Box” Bachschmidt has died after apparently committing suicide in Charleston, South Carolina. Most recently, he’d been hosting an Internet morning program. He left his gig with LM Communications where he was hosting AM drive on triple A WCOO, Charleston “The Bridge” in February. During his career he’d also served with iHeartMedia as host and PD at news/talk WSC, Charleston and APD at Cumulus’ WTN-FM, Nashville.
Saturday Immigration Policy Protest Rallies/Abolish ICE Movement, Open Supreme Court Seat, Iran Sanctions/Regime Change, New Canada Tariffs/Trade War Concerns, North Korea Nuclear Program, Lopez Obrador Wins Mexican Presidency, LeBron James Signs with Lakers, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Saturday’s “Keep Families Together” rallies and the related movement to abolish the Immigration and Customs Enforcement bureau; the open Supreme Court Justice seat; President Trump’s call for renewed sanctions in Iran and Rudy Giuliani’s statement that the Trump wants Iranian regime change; Canada puts tariffs on more American goods and concerns about the effects of a global trade war; new intelligence suggesting North Korea is expanding its nuclear missile program; leftist Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador wins the Mexican presidency; LeBron James’ new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Radio Hall of Famer Wolfman Jack is back on the air as Envision Networks begins offering digitally remastered programs. The classic radio show
is available as a five-hour weekly show and contains Wolfman’s comedy bits, funny phone calls, crazy characters, celebrity interviews, and great music from the 60s and 70s. Wolfman Jack Licensing executive producer Jay Harvey says, “We are delighted to be working with Danno and his team at Envision Networks. The world famous Wolfman Jack Radio Show is back and sounding better than ever.”…..Country air personality Roxanne Steele exits Entercom’s WYCD, Detroit. The company has scrubbed her info from that station website and Steele posted the following message, “I’m back from vacation but on a permanent vacation from WYCD. I’m still having a hard time processing that I no longer wake up and go to a job I absolutely loved. This is like a bad dream that doesn’t seem real even though I’ve been through this before.”…..Anaheim Broadcasting’s rock KCAL, Riverside-San Bernardino is saying adios to longtime personality Kelli Cluque who is joining Cal State Bernardino to serve as operations manager for the school’s Coyote Radio station.
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Urban One to Pay $4.2 Million for WTEM-AM, Washington. The price tag of the deal that will transfer ownership of sports talk WTEM-AM, Washington from Dan Snyder-controlled Red Zebra to Urban One is $4.2 million. In its filing with the SEC, Urban One reports that it “expects to generate approximately
$1.7 million of pro-forma EBITDA from the assets, which represents a buyer’s multiple of approximately 2.5x.” The presser from Urban One confirms that the station will continue to serve as the flagship station for Washington Redskins football. (Games and related programming will also continue to air on Cumulus Media’s WMAL-AM/FM, 
Washington.) Urban One president and CEO Alfred Liggins says, “This is a tremendous opportunity for Urban One and we are especially pleased that through our acquisition, ‘The Team 980’ will continue to be locally owned. The acquisition of ‘The Team 980’ is very much in line with our strategy of super-serving our community of listeners. We have deep roots in the greater Washington, DC area and are well aware that ‘The Team 980’ has always been a fan favorite. Red Zebra has a track record of producing great programming that engages our hometown sports fans. We look forward to working with the Washington Redskins organization to continue this tradition.”
PPM Analysis: All-News. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents an analysis of the performances of stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s April PPM survey, today focusing on the all-news format. As Kinosian notes, the April PPM survey was not kind to the all-news format with just one station – Entercom’s KCBS-AM, San Francisco – notching a gain. The station went up a 0.5 share in the adjacent San Jose market. However, comparing year-over-year numbers, about half the all-news stations in PPM markets saw their 6+ numbers increase, with iHeartMedia’s KFBK, Sacramento rising by 0.8 share. Although it went down by 0.8 share, Hubbard Radio’s WTOP-FM, Washington still ranked #1 in its market, while KCBS-AM ranked #2 in both the San Francisco and San Jose markets and KFBK ranked #2 in Sacramento. See the entire report here.
Houston Talk Host Matt Patrick Posthumously Named TALKERS 2018 “Humanitarian of the Year.” The late Michael “Matt Patrick” Ryan has been posthumously named the recipient of the TALKERS 2018 “Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service by a Radio Talk Show Host” – also referred to as “Humanitarian of the Year.” Patrick was a major presence in Texas talk radio as the popular host of “Houston’s Morning News” on KTRH, Houston and his syndicated afternoon program, “The Matt Patrick Show” on KPRC, Houston and KFXR, Dallas/Ft. Worth. In September 2015,
Patrick announced that he was receiving treatment for metastatic melanoma at the world-renowned M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. The 37-year radio pro underwent brain surgery in late 2015, followed by multiple rounds of chemo, immunotherapy, and radiation in 2016. Continuing to work through additional treatments, Patrick also maintained regular television appearances on Houston’s FOX 26 News, provided live coverage of the 2016 GOP National Convention from Cleveland for iHeartMedia, and rallied millions of fans during numerous public appearances to discuss “Overcoming Obstacles in Life.” Patrick’s wife and radio business partner Paula Ryan writes in TALKERS (5/21), “Although the odds of survival were not great, Matt’s invincible drive and spirit were. He was a brave and courageous warrior, leaving it all on the 
field. Matt’s final appearance on KTRH was July 5, 2017 where he mustered every remaining ounce of strength to publicly thank his beloved listeners and to say goodbye to this terrestrial world. Just a few days later, on July 9, 2017, Matt spoke his last beautiful words privately to me with that golden voice of his, and quietly slipped away to Heaven.” Matt Patrick was extremely active in supporting a number of charities and causes. He spoke for the Star of Hope in an effort to end homelessness, the Akron/Canton Regional Food Bank (during his earlier tenure as a talk host in Northeast Ohio between 2000-2010) and Houston Food Bank to aid food-insecure individuals and families, as well as supporting the Fisher House (free, extended-stay facilities for the families of hospitalized active-duty or retired military members and veterans) even holding a radiothon onsite (just Patrick and his engineer) in Houston to raise funds for these military families and veterans. Over the course of the last decade of his time in Ohio, he worked tirelessly to raise $15 million for Akron Children’s Hospital as the founder and original host of the “Have A Heart, Do Your Part Radiothon,” and was an active supporter of Children’s Miracle Network. Patrick was awarded the “Child Advocacy Award” of Akron Children’s Hospital for making a profound difference in the lives of the children in the community. Patrick was a recovering alcoholic. In November 2005, he achieved sobriety, one day at a time, and had helped countless others who struggled with addiction and alcoholism. He was a believer in having to “give it away to keep it” and did just that. Paula Ryan tells TALKERS, “Every year Matt and I would host ‘The Matt Patrick Recovery Show’ to publicly talk about his struggles with addiction while offering hope and resources to those who had a desire to become sober. He served in various volunteer capacities with AA and would never hesitate to meet personally with a listener or return a phone call from a complete stranger if they reached out to him asking for his help.” Patrick was a staunch supporter of law enforcement and was formally recognized by many agencies for his role in educating the public and bringing the community together working collaboratively with local police. He was named an Honorary Deputy Sheriff in Fort Bend County and was honored with a formal changing of the guard ceremony at his memorial service by several law enforcement agencies including Harris County Sheriff, Fort Bend County Sheriff, and the City Of Houston, Texas Police Chief. His 13-year-old son, Jake Ryan, was inducted into the Thin Blue Line at his dad’s memorial service as well. To view a touching video tribute to the life and career of Matt Patrick, please click here. The TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” award will be presented posthumously at TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! on June 8 in New York City and accepted by his widow Paula and son Jake.
WBEN-AM, Buffalo’s ‘12 Voices in 12 Hours’ Initiative Addresses Opioid Addiction. The “12 Voices in 12 Hours” initiative continues at Entercom’s
news/talk WBEN-AM, Buffalo “NewsRadio 930” with the station this time addressing the opioid addiction epidemic. The station is presenting 14 hours of programming on the issue today (5/23) from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. Each hour of programming will feature a different voice on the issue, including medical experts, addiction experts, pain management experts, recovering opioid addicts, and family members of some of the victims of the epidemic. The day’s special programming will conclude with a two-hour, live “Opioid Conversation” at the City of Tonawanda High School auditorium from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
iHeartMedia First Quarter 2018 Revenue Down 1.7%. Revenue for the first quarter of 2018 for iHeartMedia’s radio division was $744.5 million – a decrease of 1.7% compared to the same period in 2017. The company, currently in Chapter 11 reorganization, did not make any statements accompanying the financial data in the 8-K report, nor is it holding an investor’s conference call. The company as a whole – including its Outdoor segments – was up 3.1% on consolidated revenue of $1.36 billion.
New York Festivals International Radio Program Awards Announces Finalists. The finalists have been announced for the 2018 New York Festivals International Radio Program Awards. The World’s Best Radio Programs competition has been taking place since 1982, receiving entries from radio stations, networks, and independent producers from around the globe. This year, NYF’s Grand Jury selected 353 finalists from entries submitted from 31 countries worldwide. Entries were judged based on production values, organization, presentation of information, creativity, and use of the medium. Vice president and executive director Rose Anderson says, “From audio books, podcasts, and sound art to documentaries, drama, and breaking news. The international Grand Jury members once again selected finalists whose content exhibited creativity and innovation.” All finalists move on to the medal round. U.S. broadcasters making it to the medal round include: CBS News Radio, SiriusXM, Westwood One, and ESPN. See all the finalists here.
Dave Schrader Assumes Host Role for ‘Midnight in the Desert.’ The Dark Matter Digital Network announces that Dave Schrader is officially named the host of the “Midnight in the Desert” program that had been hosted by the late Art Bell. Schrader has hosted “Darkness Radio,” “Beyond the Darkness,” 
“True-Crime Tuesday” and was a frequent weekend host for “Coast to Coast AM.” Keith Rowland, manager/operator of Rowland Network Communications, LLC for the Dark Matter Digital Network, says they are actively seeking terrestrial radio affiliates for the program. “Dave Schrader brings a wealth of experience, professionalism, and credibility to the search of the paranormal, the weird, and the anomalous that will continue to keep ‘Midnight in the Desert’ as the leading Internet-based LIVE paranormal program.”
WHO, Des Moines’ Simon Conway Celebrates 10th Anniversary as Citizen. Afternoon drive talk show host Simon Conway (pictured above with Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate) was born in London, but back in 2008, he celebrated his new American citizenship. Conway’s program is heard on iHeartMedia’s WHO, Des Moines “News Radio 1040” and is simulcast on the company’s WMT, Cedar Rapids “News Radio 600.”
U.S.-North Korea Summit, Trump-Russia Investigation, Iran Nuclear Deal, Primary Races, Prison Reform Bill, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/22). The uncertain status of the planned summit between President Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the state of the Iran nuclear deal after the U.S.’s exit from the pact; the primary elections in Georgia, Texas, and Kentucky; the Trump Administration’s prison reform bill passes the House; Major League Baseball action; and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. It’s rare for Salem Media Group to sell stations but, as Salem Broadcast Media president David Santrella says, “When we do, we make every attempt to ensure that the buyer will continue to program the station with a format that will make a positive impact in the community. That appears to be the case as Christian contemporary KGBI-FM, Omaha is being sold to University of Northwestern-St. Paul. The school already operates 20 non-commercial stations around the country. The school’s SVP for media Jason Sharp says, “We are grateful for the partnership we have experienced with Salem Media Group during this process. We look forward to expanding our network in Omaha and continuing the work of pointing people to Jesus through music and programming that makes an eternal impact.”
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Cumulus Elects to Miss $23.6 Million Interest Payment; Restructuring Talks to Intensify. The decision by the restructuring committee of Cumulus Media’s board of directors to forgo the scheduled interest payment of $23.6 million due yesterday (11/1) is designed to emphasize the 
importance of negotiations with creditors for restructuring the company’s debt. In its 8-K filing with the SEC, the company acknowledges its private discussions with lenders and noteholders and says, “This decision was made in support of the Company’s efforts to develop and implement a restructuring that will allow the Company to continue its operational and financial momentum, as evidenced by the results announced in its selected preliminary operating results for third quarter 2017 on October 26, 2017. The decision to withhold payment during the grace period will not impact the Company’s operating constituents, including its employees, advertisers, network affiliates, vendors and content partners.” This move will mature into an “Event of Default” if the payment is not made by December 1. Obviously, Cumulus hopes that progress on restructuring can be made this month.
Entercom Q3 Net Revenue Up 1%. For the third quarter of 2017, Entercom’s net revenue was $122.3 million, an increase of 1% over 2016’s $121.6 million. Operating income was $13.5 million, after $8.8 million in merger and acquisition costs, compared to $25.7 million in the third quarter 
of 2016. Same station net revenue decreased by 1%, excluding political. Entercom president and CEO David Field states, “These are exciting times at Entercom as we count down the days before closing our game-changing merger with CBS RADIO. Entercom will be one of the radio industry’s two largest companies with an extraordinary lineup of highly rated, award winning radio stations, digital platforms and live events and a robust set of meaningful scale-driven, value-creation opportunities. We are looking forward to deploying our extensive plans to drive growth in the business through a significant series of enhancements and investments across the organization.”
Marv Nyren Named Chicago Market Manager for Cumulus. Chicago native Marv Nyren returns to the commercial radio biz as the new vice president and market manager for Cumulus
Media’s Windy City stations news/talk WLS-AM, classic hits WLS-FM, alternative WKQX, and classic rock WLUP-FM. He was most recently vice president of corporate sponsorships at Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ-FM, Chicago. He’d previously been a market manager for Emmis Communications serving in Chicago, Phoenix, and Indianapolis and for iHeartMedia managing its Jacksonville, Florida and Brunswick, Georgia stations. Cumulus EVP Dave Milner states, “Marv brings a wealth of experience and drive to Cumulus Chicago. He is a smart, competitive operator focused on building strong cultures that support and empower the team to succeed.”
WHO, Des Moines Talk Host Simon Conway Recovering from Heart Attacks. According to an account in the Des Moines Register, WHO afternoon drive talk show host Simon Conway has 
been off his radio program this week after suffering two heart attacks over the past six days. The paper says Conway confirmed the news via Facebook posts from his hospital bed in which he told his fans that he’s feeling fine and that he hopes to be back on the air by Monday. iHeartMedia Des Moines market manager Joel McCrea tells the Register that he understands the heart attacks were mild and that Conway is resting at home. See the Register story here.
WHPT, Tampa’s Drew Garabo Endorsed Investment SEC Calls a Fraud. Afternoon drive personality Drew Garabo – heard on Cox Media Group’s WHPT, Tampa “102.5 The Bone” – voiced ads for an investment that the Securities Exchange Commission is calling a Ponzi
scheme. According to a report by WFLA-TV, Tampa, the ads appeared on WHPT for Optimal Economics Capital Partners fund, or O. E. Capital, being sold by C 4 Benefits Group, with the endorsement ad voiced by Garabo. The SEC says the fund raised more than $13 million, some of that coming from WHPT listeners. But the SEC says that the only way investors got paid was from future investors’ cash and that’s the definition of a Ponzi scheme. The ad for the fund guaranteed a minimum 12% return per year. Garabo did not comment for the WFLA-TV story. At least one investor says she’s suing O.E. Capital, C4, and Cox. Read the story here.
Radha Subramanyam Exits iHM Research Post; Company Names Michele Madansky Her Successor. Just a day after the news that Dr. Radha Subramanyam is leaving her president of 
research, insights and data analytics position with iHeartMedia to take on a similar role with CBS Corporation, iHM announces that it is brining Dr. Michele Madansky aboard to as its new research, insights and data analytics EVP. iHeartMedia EVP of revenue and sales operation Peter Ban comments, “Michele has an expansive track record providing cutting edge analytics for a wide variety of today’s biggest media companies. We’re thrilled she’ll be shaping our research efforts and ensuring our advertising partners are best utilizing iHeartMedia’s unparalleled reach and multiplatform assets.
NYC Terror Attack, Mueller Investigation, Uranium One Deal, North Korea Nuclear Threats, GOP Tax Reform Bill, Virginia Governor Race, Denver Walmart Shootings, Positive Economic News, Astros Win World Series, NFL Ratings, Protests and Deadline Trades Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/1). The terror attack on pedestrians and cyclists in New York that left eight dead and 11 injured; special counsel Robert Mueller’s indictments of three Trump campaign operatives and speculation about where the Trump-Russia investigation is heading; questions about the Uranium One deal and the FBI’s and Hillary Clinton’s roles in the matter; North Korea’s nuclear program and threats against the U.S.; the GOP tax reform bill process; the hotly contested Virginia gubernatorial race; the shooting that left three dead at a Walmart in the Denver area on Wednesday evening; positive jobs and economic news; the Houston Astros defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games to win their first World Series; the NFL’s ratings troubles, ongoing anthem protests, and trade deadline moves were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Alpha Media Stations Available on iHeartRadio Platform. This deal between iHeartMedia and Portland-based Alpha Media will make more than 200 of Alpha’s radio stations available to
listeners via the iHeartRadio platform. The press release says the rollout begins today and all of the company’s stations will be available within weeks. Alpha Media CEO/president Bob Proffitt comments, “We’re excited to join forces with iHeartRadio and expand our digital footprint. This partnership allows us to super serve our fans by reaching them whenever and wherever they choose to listen to us. Alpha Media is live, local and on the go.”
NASH Next Winner Is Radio Romance. The Hermitage, Tennessee-based country act Radio Romance is the winner of the NASH Next 2017 Challenge. The final competition event took place last night (11/1) at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville with live performances from the top 10 national finalists. Radio Romance wins a Big Machine Label Group recording contract and airplay on Cumulus Media country stations. Pictured above, members of the band pose for a picture with: NASH program director John Shomby (top row, left), Cumulus SVP content & programming Mike McVay (center, top row), Cumulus VP label relations John Kilgo (top row, right) and Big Machine Label Group president/CEO Scott Borchetta (front row, kneeling).
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Morning personality Loo Katz exits iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH-FM, Washington, DC. His info has been scrubbed from the station’s website and his posted on Facebook, “To you, my FACEBOOK friends and family, I need to share something that’s unfortunately not ‘Fake News’. Today, after 17 years, I was fired from my longtime job at 97.1 WASH-FM. The reason given to me was ‘Poor ratings’ and ‘It was time for a change’. I had just completed my 14th year of hosting Morning Drive along with the almost 3 years of doing afternoons. I had a great run at WASH-FM, a station I grew up listening to and had always dreamt about working there. I’m very proud of my work at 97.1, and feel lucky to have not been fired from a gig since 1989, when I was working for 105.1 WAVA-FM. Not many in this business can claim to have worked on the air, in their hometown since high school, or if you’re counting, the last 46 years. It’s a record that no company can take away from me.”…..Premiere Networks announces an exclusive Thanksgiving special for country radio stations hosted by CMT’s personality Cody Alan. It’s a four-hour, barter-free “CMT After MidNite Friendsgiving Special with Cody Alan” highlighted by conversations with country stars and celebrities including: Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lady Antebellum, Zac Brown, Jon Pardi, Paula Deen and Darius Rucker. It’s available for air anytime between November 22 and 26.
Round Three of October PPM Data Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio‘s October 2017 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Cincinnati, Orlando, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s October 2017 survey period covered September 14 – October 11. View all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Takeaways” from these 12-PPM markets below.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
1) Portland – Entering the September ratings period, Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB occupied the runner-up position 21 successive times, but on the strength of a +1.4 it finally reached #1 and had a 1.4-share advantage over iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW “K-103.” It proves to be a short stay in the penthouse though for the
public news/talk outlet as it plummets by -1.1 (9.1 – 8.0, 6+) and returns to its familiar spot at #2. Seven recent trends for KOPB are +.9 in March; -.8 in May; +.6 in June; -.9 in July; +.6 in August; +1.4 in September; and now -1.1 in October. A collective -1.4 in three straight downward trends (9.1 – 8.6 – 8.6 – 7.7, 6+), “K-
103” roars back by recapturing all of that loss and one-tenth for good measure to 9.2 (+1.5, 6+), the highest 6+-share for KKCW since the 15.3 it posted in “Holiday” 2016. When the dust settles, KKCW now has a 1.2-share lead over KOPB. The top spot is nothing new for “K-103,” which was #1 in 39 of the previous 41 ratings periods before segueing to #2 in September. Picking up one-half share each are Entercom adult hits KYCH “97.1 Charlie – We Play Everything” (4.6 – 5.1, sixth to fourth, 6+); sports talk sibling KFXX “1080 The Fan” (2.0 – 2.5, #20 to #17, 6+); and All Classical Public Media’s KQAC (3.0 – 3.5, steady at #15, 6+). This is the highest 6+-share for “Charlie” since 5.5 in “Holiday” 2016 and the best 6+-stat for “The Fan” in nearly four years (2.6, November 2013, 6+). On the flipside, co-owned KGON “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock” is down for the fourth straight time for a collective loss of -1.9 (5.6 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 3.7, 6+), freefalling out of the top ten (#5 to #13) with its softest 6+-performance since January’s 3.2. The format loses an additional half-share from iHeartMedia-owned KFBW “105.9 The Brew Portland’s Rock Station” (5.2 – 4.7, fourth to fifth, 6+), which was coming off its strongest 6+-share since September 2015’s 5.5. Six recent fluctuations for “The Brew” include: +1.0 in April; -.6 in May; +1.1 in June; -.6 in August; +1.1 in September; and now -.5 in October. Within 2.1 – 2.6 range (6+) in each of the last 13 ratings periods, Salem Media Group regional Mexican KRYP “93.1 El Rey” falters by seven-tenths to 1.6 (#16 to #20, 6+). For the second straight month, both Entercom-owned KWJJ “99.5 The Wolf – Great Country for the Great Northwest” (sixth to tenth, 6+) and Alpha Media’s KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” (ninth to a three-way tie at seventh, 6+) are down. This is the third straight negative move for “The Wolf” for a combined -1.6 (5.6 – 5.2 – 4.6 – 4.0, 6+), while “The Bull” is off a collective eight-tenths in three consecutive down or flat trends in the same July-August-September-October timeframe (4.9 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+). Prior to gaining three-tenths in June, “The Wolf” was a combined -1.8 in March, April, and May (6.4 – 5.5 – 4.8 – 4.6, 6+), while “The Bull” was down in consecutive sweeps for a -1.1 (5.5 – 4.5 – 4.4, April – May – June, 6+). The two country rivals finished back-to-back at seventh and eighth, respectively, in both May and June.
2) Charlotte – Not only does iHeartMedia-owned WEND “106.5 The End – Charlotte’s New Rock Alternative” crack the top ten (#13 to #10), it records its third straight uptick for a collective +1.1 (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2, 6+). Likewise, as the result of three straight increases (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.7, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rocker WRFX is a collective +1.0 and repeats at #1. In four straight
decreases between March and July, however, “99.7 The Fox” lost two full-shares (7.7 – 7.6 – 7.2 – 6.2 – 5.7, 6+). It had been #1 in five consecutive survey periods before getting dislodged in June. Off by one-tenth in both August and September (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+), Radio One gospel WPZS enters the top ten (#14 to a four-way tie at #10) by rolling out a one-half share gain to 4.2 as it reaches 
the four-share level (6+) for the first time since February 2015’s 4.0. In that same vein, Entercom news/talk WBT registers its third consecutive improvement for a collective +1.4 (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 4.0, #16 to #14, 6+) and hits the four-share mark (6+) for the first time in exactly one year (4.1, October 2016). Contrasted to WBT’s gain of six-tenths, University Radio Foundation’s similarly-formatted WFAE “90.7 Charlotte’s NPR News Source” is off by that margin (4.3 – 3.7, 6+), drifting from #10 to #15. Over the last nine sweeps, WFAE was no higher than 4.3 (6+) and no lower than 4.0 (6+); this is its weakest 6+-showing since 2.8 in “Holiday” 2016. Without an increase the past four months for an overall loss of -1.1 (6.6 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 5.6 – 5.5, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC picks up three-tenths to 5.8 as “Country’s Hottest Hits” climbs from sixth to fourth, while iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” is off two-tenths (5.6 – 5.4, 6+), slipping from third to sixth. WSOC succeeded WKKT at #1 in July; WKKT supplanted WSOC at #1 in August. While this represents the third straight negative trend for Radio One urban contemporary WQNC for a -1.5 (3.4 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.9, 6+), “92.7 The Block” (which posted a +1.2 in July) actually improves from #18 to #17. Flat at #7, Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WPEG “Power 98” is a combined -1.2 in three straight dips (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+), while its CHR sibling WNKS “Kiss 95.1 – Charlotte’s #1 Hit Music Station” (ninth to tenth) is -1.2 as well – but in four consecutive declines (5.4 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). After posting three successive gains for a collective +1.0 (3.8 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.8, 6+), co-owned adult contemporary WKQC “K-104.7 More Music, Better Variety” surrenders half of that increase (4.3, -.5, seventh to ninth, 6+). Down by one-half share as well is Davidson College’s WDAV “Classical Public Radio” (1.8, #17 to #18, 6+). When WDAV picked up four-tenths in September, it pulled the plug on seven straight down or flat trends that accounted for a combined -1.7 since January (3.6 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+).
3) San Antonio – On the heels of surrendering one-half share in September, Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” notches an increase nearly double that margin (5.1 – 6.0, +.9, 6+) and marches from fourth to second. “Y-100” had been within 5.1 – 5.8 range (6+) the past 11 months and, while September’s 5.1
was its lowest 6+-share in almost five years (5.0, “Holiday” 2012), October 2017’s 6.0 is its strongest 6+-showing since last November’s 7.1. The -.5 in September ended three straight sweeps without a decrease that netted two-tenths (5.4 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+). Its format rival – iHeartMedia-owned KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” – is locked on 5.0 (6+) but advances from sixth to fifth. Prior to August, “KJ-97” registered three consecutive uptrends for a collective gain of eight-tenths. Setting the pace in 
this Texas market for the ninth successive time is Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies outlet KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits,” which is up seven-tenths to 7.0 (6+). As a result, it regains all but one-tenth of the collective -.8 in August and September (7.1 – 6.6 – 6.3, 6+). Recent (6+) fluctuations for “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” include October 2016’s -1.0; November’s +.9; December’s -1.1; “Holiday” 2016’s -1.3; January’s +1.1; April’s +.8; May’s -.6; August’s -.5; and October’s +.7. Seven-tenths proves to be lucky as well for co-owned hot AC KSMG “Magic 105.3 – Today’s Best Music,” which reaches the five-share level for the first time since August 2016’s 5.0 (4.4 – 5.1, +.7, eighth to fourth, 6+) and Texas Public Radio news/talk KSTX (3.7, +.7, #15 to #11, 6+), which – in September – eroded by eight-tenths to 3.0, its lowest 6+-share since April’s 2.5. Having regressed by one-half share in back-to-back sweeps (3.8 – 3.3 – 2.8, May – June – July, 6+), KSTX recouped that loss in its entirety with a +1.0 in August. It had been two years since KSTX last reached the three-share level (August 2015, 3.0, 6+); owing to three straight increases, including May’s +1.3, it nearly doubled its 6+-share (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.5 – 3.8, 6+). An overall -1.2 via four consecutive losses (3.8 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+), Alpha Media regional Mexican KSAH “Norteno 104.1” halts that streak with a gain of four-tenths to 3.0 (#18 to #16, 6+). Following three upticks in succession that netted eight-tenths (3.4 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.2, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KZLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” forfeits one full-share to 3.2 and spirals from #10 to #15. In four successive down or flat trends, iHeartMedia CHR KXXM “96.1 Now – San Antonio’s #1 Hit Music Station” has lost a collective nine-tenths (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.5, #11 to #13, 6+). The co-owned Spanish adult hits HD3 channel of KQXT sputters by six-tenths (2.1 – 1.5, #19 to #21, 6+).
4) Pittsburgh – Unless already at #1 (and unable to go higher), it’s rare to see a station dial up a robust +1.6 and not advance. Such is nonetheless the case with iHeartMedia rocker WDVE, which remains in second-place for the fourth 
consecutive sweep despite a +1.6 to 10.2, the first time it has reached double-digits (6+) since March (10.4). The other piece of good news for WDVE “102.5 Rocks, ” which was tied for #1 in June, is the +1.6 emphatically ends three straight declines that generated a -1.0 (9.6 – 9.2 – 8.7 – 8.6, 6+); September’s 8.6 was its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 8.4. Another outlet in the “Steel City” progresses by at least one full-share (6+) from September, as co-owned CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss FM – Pittsburgh’s #1 Music Station” tacks 
on a +1.0 to September’s two-tenths’ gain and inches up from fourth to third. The +.2 this time last month concluded a string of three straight decreases that resulted in a -2.1 (9.1 – 8.7 – 7.6 – 7.0, 6+); August’s 7.0 was the lowest 6+-share for “Kiss” since 6.7 in the “Holiday” 2016 report. Despite a one-tenth drop to 10.6 (following September’s +1.1, 6+), classic hits-oldies cluster-mate WWSW “94.5 – 3WS” is #1 for the seventh straight month. After posting three consecutive increases netting a +1.3 (9.1 – 9.9 – 10.3 – 10.4, 6+), WWSW forfeited eight-tenths in June. Immediately before picking up eight-tenths in March, “3WS” was -4.6 since “Holiday” 2016 (13.7 – 9.3 – 9.1, 6+). Remaining at #7, CBS Radio-owned WDSY “Y-108 Pittsburgh’s Country” continues an up/down pattern that started in June (4.4 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 4.8, 6+). An August loss of one-tenth snapped at three its consecutive string without a decrease that netted seven-tenths (3.9 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.6, 6+). Its direct competitor, iHeartMedia-owned WPGB “Big 104.7 – Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country,” gains four-tenths to 3.3 (6+), inching up from #13 to #11. “Big 104.7” was a combined +.9 in June and July (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+) and then a collective -.9 in August and September (3.8 –
3.7 – 2.9, 6+). Trending 5.5 – 5.9 – 5.7 (6+) since July, CBS Radio sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” surrenders seven-tenths to 5.0 (6+, fifth to sixth). Without a loss in the last three sweeps for a net gain of four-tenths (5.3 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Wish 99.7” relinquishes all of it plus another one-tenth (5.2, -.5, 6+) but carries on in fifth-place. Off by one-half share as well are Steel City Media adult hits WRRK “Bob” (7.9 – 7.4, third to fourth, 6+) and hot AC sibling WLTJ “Real Variety Q-92.9” (3.3 – 2.8, #11 to #13, 6+). When “Q-92.9” dropped one-tenth in September, it halted at four a consecutive streak of up or flat moves for a cumulative gain of six-tenths (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.4, 6+).
5) Sacramento – Powered by a gain of six-tenths to 4.8, its best 6+-showing since last November (4.8, as well), California State University – Sacramento news/talk KXJZ “Capital Public Radio” progresses from seventh to fourth. For the third consecutive sweep, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVB registers a move of
one-half share. “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” was -.5 in August; +.5 in September; and replicates September’s +.5 in October (1.9 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.4, 6+), remaining at #15. This is the station’s highest 6+-share since 2.5 in March. In the driver’s seat for the fourth time in a row, Entercom-owned KSEG “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” is nonetheless a combined -1.6 in September and October (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.1, 6+). Prior to August 2017 when it was +1.4 to 9.7 – its strongest 6+-showing since 9.9 in August 2016 – “The Eagle” posted an 8.3 (6+) three times in the previous four ratings periods (8.3 – 8.3 – 8.5 – 8.3, 6+). Even though it is without a loss for the fifth month in a row for a net gain of seven-tenths (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.3, 6+), CBS Radio’s KHTK “Sports 1140” backslides from #15 to #16. 
After three straight improvements netting a combined +1.3 (6.5 – 6.7 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk hybrid KFBK regresses by three-tenths to 7.5 (6+), segueing from second to third; 7.8 in September is its strongest 6+-stat since February’s 8.2. October 2017 doesn’t prove to be a good ratings period for country outlets in “the Big Tomato.” Specifically, as the result of three consecutive declines (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.1, 6+), CBS Radio’s KNCI “New Country 105.1” is a collective -1.9 and slips from fourth to eighth. It hadn’t been below a five-share (6+) since August 2016 (4.7). Meanwhile, Entravision-owned KNTY “101.9 – The Wolf” returns 60% of September’s one-half share gain and is steady at #14 (3.0 – 2.7, -.3, 6+). The +.5 in September suspended four straight decreases for an overall -.9 (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+). As a result of a one-tenth loss in May, “The Wolf” had its streak of successive increases which generated a +1.5 end at five (1.9 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 3.4, 6+). The market’s other country player – iHeartMedia’s KBEB “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country” – has lost more than 40% of its 6+-share (-1.3) in three straight decreases (3.1 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+) and slips from #15 to #18. Down four-tenths to 3.4 (6+), Entercom-owned KKDO “Radio 94.7 – Sacramento’s Alternative” has its consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted one full-share end at seven (2.8 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.8, 6+) as it exits the top ten (#9 to #13); September’s 3.8 is its best 6+performance since March 2016 (3.8, as well).
6) Salt Lake City – In six consecutive improvements (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.6 – 5.8, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits” (fifth to fourth) is an overall +1.9 and has its highest 6+-share since 
June 2016’s 6.6. Not only does KSL register its third successive uptick netting a cumulative +3.1 (5.2 – 5.8 – 6.9 – 8.3, 6+), the Bonneville news/talk outlet advances from second to first with its strongest 6+-share since January’s 8.9. An even dozen of KSL’s recent fluctuations include +2.0 (October 2016), -.9 (November), +1.1 (December), -1.5 (“Holiday” 2016); +2.1 (January 2017); -2.1 (February); +.6 (April); -1.1 (May); -.9 (July); +.6 (August); +1.1 (September); and now +1.4 (October). Dislodged from the top spot after four consecutive months there is co-owned KSFI “FM 100.3 – Better Music Better Work Day,” which sputters by one-half share and takes over at #2 (7.8 – 7.3, 6+). Off by one-half share as well are iHeartMedia CHR KZHT “97.1 ZHT – Salt Lake’s #1 Hit Music Station” (6.0, flat at #3, 6+) and Capital Broadcasting hot AC KBZN “Now 97.9 Today’s Best Music” (5.7 – 5.2, fourth to fifth, 6+). In three straight monthlies without a loss, KZHT was a combined +1.5 (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 6.5, 6+), with September 2017’s 6.5 its strongest 6+-stat since 6.6 in September 2016. Down six-tenths in July, KBZN was up one-half share in August. Owing to four straight downward moves (5.7 – 5.2 – 3.5 – 3.1 – 2.7, 6+), Broadway Media CHR KUDD “Mix 105.1 – All the Hits” – has eroded by three full-shares and drops from #15 to #16. “Mix” was a combined +1.5 in March and April; -.9 in May; and +1.6 in June to 5.7, the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history. Within 2.0 – 2.8 range for the 17th consecutive sweep, rhythmic CHR sibling KUUU “U-92” is flat at 2.0 (6+), but dips from #18 to #19. A loss of four-tenths to 3.1 (6+) by Cumulus Media adult contemporary KBEE curtails at three its successive string of gains that accounted for a +1.1 (2.4 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 3.5, 6+); “B-98.7 – Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” exits the top ten (#10 to #14). After three downward trends in a row for a collective -1.5 (6.1 – 6.0 – 4.9 – 4.6, 6+), independent KSOP-FM “Z-104 Utah’s #1 Country” picks up two-tenths to 4.8 (6+) and climbs from eighth to seventh. In the process, it overtakes its country rival – Cumulus Media’s KUBL “K-Bull” – which sputters by four-tenths (4.7 – 4.3, 6+) and drops from seventh to eighth. When “Z-104” slipped by one-tenth in July, it stopped at four its streak of consecutive improvements that netted a +2.1 (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.3 – 6.1, 6+). June’s 6.1 represents the strongest ever 6+ PPM share for “Z-104,” which was -1.1 in August.
7) Las Vegas – Exactly one month has elapsed (October 1) since a gunman opened fire on a crowd of Las Vegas concertgoers at the Route 91 Harvest (country) music festival; 58 people died (including the shooter) and 546 were injured. September 2017 ratings information was released one day after that horrific Las Vegas mass murder. Given that the October 2017 survey period covered September 14 – October 11, it includes radio’s reaction to that tragedy. Somewhat surprising, there is no September 2017 – October 2017 spike whatsoever among the market’s
three rated and published news/talk outlets. Tied at #19 are Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR (2.2 – 2.1, -.1, 6+) and CBS Radio’s KXNT which is up (modestly) for the third straight time (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+); Beasley Media Group’s 
KDWN finishes at #25 (.9 – .7, -.2, 6+). In a check of the market’s country outlets, July-August-September (6+) trending for iHeartMedia’s KWNR was 4.9 – 5.0 – 4.9, but “95.5 The Bull – Las Vegas’ New Country Leader” registers a gain of eight-tenths to 5.7, advancing from fourth to third. Having logged three straight gains for a collective +1.8 (3.1 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.9, 6+) before faltering by an overall two full-shares in June, July, and August (4.9 – 4.7 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned KCYE rebounded with a +.7 in September to 3.6. In October though, “The Coyote – We Are Country” drops one-tenth to 3.5 but remains at #10 (6+). Over and above being the fourth straight month at #1, co-owned classic hits-oldies property KKLZ “96.3 – 70s, 80s and More”
hangs out a full-share increase (6.9 – 7.9, 6+). Up one full-share via four straight sweeps without a loss (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 3.1, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits KYMT “93.1 The Mountain – We Play Everything” advances from #16 to #13 with its best 6+-showing since February’s 3.2. Repeating at #2, CBS Radio hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1” posts its fourth successive improvement for a net gain of +1.4 (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.9 – 6.0, 6+) and reaches the six-share level (6+) for the first time since December 2015’s 6.1. An overall -1.9 in three straight decreases (6.0 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s KOAS “Old School 105.7” pulls the plug by increasing two-tenths to 4.3 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Owing to four decreases in succession, adult contemporary cluster-mate KSNE “Sunny 106.5” spirals by -2.7 (7.5 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 4.8, third to fourth, 6+). Recent fluctuations for “Sunny,” which had been on top between December 2016 and June 2017, are +1.8 in March; -1.1 in April; -1.2 in May; +1.4 in June; -.8 in July; -.7 in September; and now -.8 in October. Following an August +1.3 to 5.3, its best 6+-stat since March (5.5), CBS Radio-owned KLUC “98.5 Las Vegas #1 Hit Music Station” is a combined -1.6 in September and October (5.3 – 4.3 – 3.7, sixth to eighth, 6+). Its rhythmic hot AC sibling, KXQQ “Q-100.5,” falters by seven-tenths (3.9 – 3.2, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #12).
8) Cincinnati – Flashing increases of seven-tenths each are Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” (9.0, steady at #2, 6+) and Hubbard hot AC WKRQ “Q-102 Cincinnati’s Hit Music” (5.3 – 
6.0, unchanged at #4, 6+). “Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” was a combined -1.4 in August and September (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.3, 6+). Locked on 3.6 (6+) in August and September following its 3.3 (6+) in July, iHeartMedia news/talk WKRC “55 KRC – The Talk Station” erupts with a +.6 to 4.2 (6+) and enters the top ten (#12 to #9). Rebounding from September’s -1.1 with a gain of one-half share (4.4 – 4.9, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WOFX “92.5 The Fox – Cincinnati’s Classic Rock” jumps from eighth to fifth; 4.4 was it lowest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2016’s 3.8. Trending 4.0 – 3.9 – 4.0 (July – August – September, 6+), adult contemporary sibling WRRM “Warm 98.5” has a positive spike of one-half share as well (4.5, tenth to eighth, 6+). Down two-tenths in 
September and October (9.6 – 9.4 – 9.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WLW is nonetheless #1 for the third consecutive ratings period. It had been one year (August 2016) since WLW was last in sole possession of the top spot – it was tied for the lead in May 2017. “The Big One” returned to the top in August 2017 after back-to-back stays in the runner-up slot. First appearing in print in April 2014, Educational Community Radio’s WOBO was a combined +1.2 in August and September (.9 – 1.6 – 2.1, 6+), with September’s 2.1 the highest 6+-share in its PPM-history. In October though, “The Station with Something for Everyone” surrenders eight-tenths to 1.3 (#16 to #19, 6+). Relinquishing all but one-tenth of its collective August – September +.6 (3.1 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+) with a -.5 to 3.2 (6+), Cincinnati Public Radio news/talk WVXU slides from #11 to #13.
9) Orlando – Several Central Florida news/talk outlets were rewarded in September for their hurricane coverage. Fast-forwarding to October, Community Communications news/talk WMFE – which had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range for 34 consecutive ratings periods before hitting 3.0 in August – improves by eight-tenths (2.9 – 3.7, #13 to #11, 6+).
Meanwhile, Cox Media Group’s WDBO-FM returns exactly half of its 
staggering +2.0 from September (6.1 – 5.1, 6+) but remains in sixth-place. That +2.0 was the largest 6+ August 2017 – September 2017 increase by any station in the 48 PPM-markets; WDBO-FM was up nine-tenths in August. Prior to that though, it was -1.0 via three straight negative trends (4.2 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.2, 6+). Having eroded by -2.1 as the result of six consecutive decreases (3.6 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” is a collective +1.4 in September and October (1.5 – 2.6 – 2.9, #15 to #14, 6+). Steady at #3, CHR sibling WXXL “XL-106.7” picks
up four-tenths to 7.9 (6+), thus applying the brakes to five straight monthlies without an increase for a -2.4 (9.9 – 8.8 – 8.1 – 7.8 – 7.5 – 7.5, 6+). That particular streak followed a +2.7 as the result of four consecutive progressive trends (7.2 – 8.0 – 9.0 – 9.7 – 9.9, 6+). April’s 9.9 was its strongest 6+-share since September’s 10.4. A September loss of eight-tenths (7.9 – 7.1, 6+) took Cox Media Group-owned WMMO to its lowest 6+-share since April’s 7.0, but “98.9 Orlando’s Classic Hits” recaptures 75% of that decrease (7.7, +.6, 6+) and carries on at #4. Three consecutive declines by urban AC sibling WCFB resulted in an overall -1.3 (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.0 – 4.8, 6+), but “Star 94.5” is up two-tenths in October to 5.0 (6+) and carries on at #7. In June, “Star” bounced back from May’s -.9 with an increase of six-tenths. Registering its highest 6+-share since February 2016’s 1.6, University of Central Florida’s WUCF “89.9 Jazz & More” improves by one-half share (1.0 – 1.5, 6+) and is unchanged at #18. After plummeting by two full-shares in July, iHeartMedia Spanish tropical WRUM “Rumba 100” was flat in August and up nine-tenths in September. On top for the tenth consecutive month, “Rumba 100” slips by one-tenth (11.6 – 11.5, 6+); April’s 12.8 was the best-ever 6+-share in its PPM-history. Despite being off by one-half share (6.4 – 5.9, 6+), CBS Radio classic hits-oldies WOCL “105.9 Sunny FM” continues at #5.
10) Cleveland – By more than quintupling its 6+-share since August (.3 – .6 – 1.6, 6+), Radio One gospel WJMO “Praise 1300” elevates from #17 to #14. Off by seven-tenths in July and August (7.3 – 6.7 – 6.6, 6+), iHeartMedia 
news/talk WTAM is a combined +1.9 in September and October (6.6 – 7.9 – 8.5) as the Cleveland Indians flagship has its highest 6+-stat since November’s 9.1. Moreover, WTAM marches from third to first, sending co-owned classic hits-oldies WMJI “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” from a first-place tie to third and Radio One urban AC WZAK (8.0, -.4, 6+) from a first-place tie to second. This is the third straight decline for WMJI for a -1.3 (9.2 – 8.9 – 8.4 – 7.9, 6+). It progressed from second to first in July with a +1.1 to 9.1, its strongest 6+-share since 9.8 in “Holiday” 2016. “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” occupied the top spot from January through April 
and was in the runner-up slot in May and June. As a result of October’s -.4, WZAK suspends three consecutive positive moves for an overall +.9 (7.5 – 7.6 – 8.1 – 8.4, 6+). Through four straight gains (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+), CBS Radio sports talk WKRK “92.3 The Fan” – the key FM station of the Cleveland Browns – is up a collective +1.5 and carries on in its familiar #12 slot. Advancing by one-half share as well is Ideastream news/talk WCPN (2.4 – 2.9, steady at #13, 6+). With a +.3 in September, WCPN ended four negative trends in succession that produced a collective -1.3 (3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.1, 6+). In addition to being an overall -1.7 via three straight negative trends (7.0 – 6.4 – 6.2 – 5.3, 6+), CBS Radio hot AC WQAL “Q-104 Plays The Hits” (unchanged at #8) has its lowest 6+-share since 5.1 in August 2016. After six consecutive sweeps without a decrease that netted a combined +1.5 (5.3 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WENZ “Z-107.9” surrenders one-third of that margin (6.3, -.5, fifth to seventh, 6+).
11) Kansas City – Nearly doubling its 6+-stat in four progressive sweeps in a row (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.8, 6+) Union Broadcasting sports talk WHB “Sports Radio 810” advances from #18 to #16 with its strongest 6+-showing since its 3.6 in March. It is six-tenths behind Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio – Our Teams, Our Town” (#12 to #15, 6+).
Following five consecutive up or flat trends in which it nearly quadrupled its 6+-share (1.2 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.4, 6+), the Kansas City Royals flagship has returned one full-share of that +3.2 in September and October (4.4 – 3.8 – 3.4, 6+); August’s 4.4 was its highest 6+-share since June 2016’s 4.7. Co-owned news/talk KMBZ-AM is up or flat for the third time in a row for a gain of six-tenths (1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 
2.4, 6+), advancing from #20 to #17. Similar to WHB, KMBZ-AM has its strongest 6+-stat since March (2.5). Notwithstanding that it is without an increase for the third sweep in succession for a -1.8 (10.3 – 8.7 – 8.5 – 8.5, 6+), Cumulus Media classic rocker KCFX is #1 for the tenth consecutive month. A -1.6 in August by “The Fox” halted five straight increases that accounted for a cumulative +2.8 (7.5 – 8.5 – 8.7 – 9.4 – 10.3, 6+). By reaching 10.3 in July, it marked only the fifth time a Kansas City station has registered double-digits (6+) in the PPM era. “The Fox” bounced back from a -.8 in March with a full-share gain in April. Before that, it recorded three consecutive declines accounting for a -1.5 (9.0 – 8.5 – 8.3 – 7.5, 6+). For the sixth month in a row, Steel City Media’s KFKF is in third-place, but “Country 94.1” is off three-tenths to 6.6 (6+), thus drawing to a close five straight increases that netted +1.3 (5.6 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.9, 6+). Co-owned KBEQ “Q-104 #1 for New Country” is up a combined six-tenths in September and October (3.4 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+) and cracks the top ten (#12 to #10). September’s +.4 curtailed four successive sweeps without an increase for an overall -1.3 (4.7 – 4.4 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+). The format rival of KFKF and KBEQ, Entercom’s WDAF “106.5 The Wolf,” is steady from September in both 6+-share (4.4) and market rank (#7). The 4.8 recorded in August by “The Wolf” is its highest 6+-share since 4.9 in April 2015. When Cumulus Media-owned KCJK dropped one-tenth in September, it halted seven straight up or flat trends for an overall gain of one full-share (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+). In October, “X-105.1 Kansas City’s Alternative” falters by another six-tenths (2.8 – 2.6, 6+) and drifts from #16 to #19.
12) Columbus – Significant winning ways continue for Radiohio-owned WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan,” which nearly triples its 6+-share (+3.4) in three straight huge gains (1.9 – 2.8 – 4.0 – 5.3, 6+) and inches up from 
seventh to sixth. “The Fan” ended its (6+) February through May sequence of 3.9 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 4.1 by slumping -1.5 in June to 2.6 (6+) and was off seven-tenths in July. This though is its best 6+-performance since 5.9 in the “Holiday” 2016 report. After slumping by six-tenths in August, iHeartMedia adult hits WODC “93.3 The Bus” answers in September and October with a collective +1.9 (4.5 – 5.5 – 6.4, 6+) and zooms from fifth to third. As is the case with “The Fan,” this is the highest 6+-share for “The Bus” since “Holiday” 2016 (11.1). Off a combined -1.5 in August and September, country cluster-mate WCOL regains roughly half of that loss with a +.7 (11.2 – 11.9) and is #1 for the fourth straight time. In June and July, WCOL produced a +3.5 (9.2 – 10.6 – 12.7, 6+). July’s 12.7 was the highest 6+-share by any Columbus station since WCOL reached 12.9 in July 2015. It was +2.2 in January; -1.2 in February; +.8 in March; -1.3 in May; +1.4 in June; +2.1 in July; -.9 in August; -.6 in September; and now +.7 in October. Over in the Saga Communications cluster, WLVQ “Iconic Rock Q-FM 96” is up one-half share to 6.3 (6+, unchanged at #4), halting a mini-slide that resulted in a -1.7 in August and September (7.5 – 6.1 – 5.8, 6+). Dropping from eighth to tenth, Radio One rhythmic CHR WCKX “Power 107.5” declines for the third straight month and is -1.1 since July (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.3, 6+) with its softest 6+-share since 3.1 in “Holiday” 2015.
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Honolulu Morning Mainstay Rick Hamada Guests on this Week’s Harrison Podcast. Longtime, KHVH 830 AM, Honolulu morning host Rick Hamada is this week’s guest on the PodcastOne award-winning series “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison.” Hamada and Harrison 
discuss the view of life – nationally and locally – seen from the perspective of an iHeartMedia-owned conservative news/talker in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. They discuss the North Korea crisis, immigration reform, race relations and a number indigenous topics impacting the lives of those who call the 50th state home. Harrison says, “I met Rick Hamada at the recent FAIR ‘Hold Their Feet to the Fire’ immigration reform radio row in Washington, DC and was a guest on his show. I was taken by his gentlemanly manner and articulate insights into the worldview from the United States of America’s most westerly outpost and knew right there I’d have to invite him on this podcast. I’m glad I did. This is a real cool conversation.” 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.
Digital Creates a New Ballgame For Boston’s WEEI. While some radio stations and companies are working harder and in some cases struggling to make digital dollars and traffic work for them, Boston’s WEEI (850AM/93.7FM) has proven digital can work extremely well for their station and brand. The Boston and New England region Entercom sports/talk powerhouse weaves its podcasts, along with an unusually strong presence on social media, into a mechanism that drives listeners to and from the radio and social media, and advertisers to multiple platforms. Success for WEEI’s digital arm didn’t happen overnight. The digital and social media launch came nine years ago as the stock market was tanking and businesses crumbling during the “great recession,” and now employs eight full and part-time staffers who also bring strong content to the radio while on-air sports radio hosts enhance their digital domain. To read all about TALKERS special features correspondent Jeff McKay’s story covering this phenomenal success, please click here.
Davis Deal Keeps Him at iHM for Four More Years. On the heels of celebrating his 25th anniversary with the company, Darren Davis agrees to a four-year contract extension as president of iHeartMedia Networks Group. “We are pleased that Darren will continue to lead the integration of our 
Networks group that enables iHeartMedia to harness the unparalleled power, reach, and scale of our digital and broadcast platforms,” notes iHeartMedia chairman and chief executive officer Bob Pittman. “His 25 years of experience working in every facet of iHeartMedia means he has a unique understanding of every aspect of our company, from our broadcast radio stations and iHeartRadio to our sales teams and partnerships, and how they can all work together to best serve our consumers, partners, affiliates, and advertisers.” Davis, who was appointed to his current position three years 
ago, comments that he is always “amazed by iHeartMedia’s evolution, which is built on broadcast radio and now provides one-of-a-kind programming and opportunities to connect our advertising partners across our unparalleled range of multiple platforms in ways that no other company can.” Davis continues as president of iHeartRadio’s live-streaming and podcasting and oversees integration of the company’s multi-platform assets. He started at iHeartMedia Washington, DC in 1992 as an intern at WASH-FM (then owned by Evergreen), where he graduated to program director of the heritage adult contemporary outlet. The George Washington University alum later advanced to regional vice president of programming for the company’s Chicago and Detroit operations and to senior vice president of programming and executive vice president/general manager of national programming.
CBS Radio Second-Quarter Revenue Down 2.2%. While Q2 revenue for parent CBS Corp. rose 9% year-to-year to a record $3.26 billion from $2.98 billion in 2016, radio division revenue was reported at $306 million, down from $313 million (-2.2%) in 2016. Conversely, that figure is up from $250 
million in 2017’s first-quarter. A noncash charge of $365 million for discontinued operations resulted from reducing the carrying value of CBS Radio to the level of the stock valuation of Entercom as it prepares to merge with Entercom in the second half of this year. In terms of CBS Corp. earnings, CBS Radio is classified as “held for sale,” adjusted each quarter based on Entercom’s stock price until that deal is finalized. CBS Radio recorded a $7 million restructuring charge tied with reorganizing some of its business operations, including severance costs and fees from ending some contractual obligations. According to CBS chairman and chief executive officer Les Moonves, “We continue to have more and more success as the landscape continues to change. Revenue was up 9% with top line growth in every one of our four business segments and EPS was up 12% to $1.04, representing our 30th consecutive quarter of EPS growth. Both of these totals were second quarter records for us. Our base advertising business is strong and growing, and at the same time, we’re laying new groundwork to ensure even more growth ahead. We are not only capitalizing on the changes in our industry, we are shaping the direction of these changes.” Local media revenue, which includes the company’s owned and operated television stations and CBS Local Digital Media, was $412 million, up 4% from $396 million last year.
PPM Data – Round One. Information for the July 2017 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen Audio’s July 2017 survey period covered June 22 – July 19. See the data from these 12-PPM markets here.
Frandsen, Hoffar to Host “KNBR Tonight.” Bay Area natives Kevin Frandsen and Drew Hoffar are the two on-air talents 
selected for “KNBR Tonight” on Cumulus Media San Francisco sports talk KNBR “The Sports Leader.” The 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm 
program debuts next Monday (8/14). KNBR program director Jeremiah Crowe opines, “Drew and Kevin are primed to make a huge impact in their new roles. Their work ethic is unmatched and both are committed to the smallest of details that will generate a great listener experience. They are relatable to the common fan, yet they each possess a vast knowledge of the overall sports landscape. I applaud Cumulus San Francisco for putting them in a position to shine.” A San Jose State University grad, Frandsen was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 2004 and played for the team from 2006 – 2009, before joining the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (2010), Philadelphia Phillies (2012 – 2013) and Washington Nationals (2014) before ending his 10-year MLB career with the Giants in 2015. He has filled in regularly on KNBR the past two years and remarks, “In my time as a major leaguer, I prided myself on performing in several roles as a utility player. Since arriving at KNBR. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the format’s most established personalities across a variety of timeslots. This evening post is a chance to advance my relationship with one of the best young talents in radio, connect with the best sports fans in the country, and move the KNBR brand forward into the digital age.” Hoffar grew up in San Leandro and has over 12 years of hosting experience and most recently served as lead host on KNBR morning show “The Audible,” alongside Frandsen. Hoffar previously held anchor and host positions at KGMZ, San Francisco and KHTK, Sacramento. “I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to reach so many diehard Bay Area sports fans on a nightly basis,” he states. “Hosting evenings on KNBR carries a responsibility to serve fans the quality content they deserve as the daily news cycle hits a close. Kevin and I will provide a unique perspective on the games and will look to entertain/inform listeners every time we open the mics.” The station’s revised weekday on-air lineup is comprised of “The Show Hour with Patrick Connor” (5:00 am – 6:00 am); “Murph & Mac” (6:00 am – 10:00 am); Gary Radnich & Larry Krueger (10:00 am – 1:00 pm); “Fitz & Brooks” (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm); “Tolbert & Lund” (3:00 pm – 7:00 pm); “KNBR Tonight with Drew Hoffar & Kevin Frandsen” (7:00 pm -10:00 pm); and CBS Sports Radio (10:00 pm – 5:00 am).
NPR Adds Bennett As Fourth White House Reporter. After serving as an NPR congressional reporter the past five months, Geoff Bennett is named 
White House reporter. In addition to Bennett, NPR’s team covering the White House now includes national political correspondent Mara Liasson, and White House correspondents Scott Horsley and Tamara Keith. NPR senior Washington editor Beth Donovan comments, “Just a few months into his return to NPR, Geoff has demonstrated the substantive reach, solid sourcing, and fluidity in stories. Those of us lucky enough to work alongside Geoff know he has done it with the grace and good humor we so need.” Before becoming a Washington reporter with NY1 News, Bennett spent almost six years at NPR as “Weekend Edition” editor.
McDonald Podcast Added to iHeartRadio. Two-time Emmy winner Rushion McDonald is making his “Money Making Conversations” podcast available on iHeartRadio. “I have known Rushion McDonald for over a decade and we have worked together on many projects,” states Premiere Networks 
president Julie Talbott. “I can honestly say he is one of the great creative business minds of our time. He has the uncanny ability to understand and solve the marketing needs of clients with innovative solutions involving talent, media, and events.” McDonald comments that he is “excited to share” his “Money Making Conversations” podcast “across iHeartRadio’s vast number of device platforms. Being available on iHeartRadio will allow me to help even more people reach their dreams through my meaningful discussions with celebrity friends and small business leaders.” Among others, guests thus far on McDonald’s podcast have included Cedric The Entertainer, Patti LaBelle, Carl Lewis, Roland Martin, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Sherri Shepherd, Rickey Smiley, Stephen A. Smith, Michelle Williams, and Charlie Wilson.
Salem Q2 Revenue Declines. Consolidated second-quarter total revenue for Salem Media Group decreased 2.5% year-to-year to $66.1 million. Net income was down from $3.4 million to $1.3 million and net broadcast revenue fell 1.4% to $49.3 million. Meanwhile, digital media revenue was off 
1.6% to $10.9 million. Publishing revenue dipped 11.3% to $6 million. Salem Media Group is projecting third quarter total revenue to be off by 6% to 8% year-to-year, owing to lack of political revenue; reduced book release schedule; elimination of four loss-making magazines; and a continued soft Dallas market.
Texas Radio Hall of Fame Announces 2017 Inductees. There are 16 new members of the Texas Radio Hall of Fame. In alphabetical order, they include: Nick Alexander (Dallas/Fort Worth); Mark Carrillo (San Antonio); Ed Chandler (Marble Falls); R.W. “Catfish” Crouch (Houston); Bill Davis (Tyler); Roger W. Garrett (College Station); Bill Harrison & Dana Adams; Bill Ingram (Houston); Tempie Lindsey (Dallas/Fort Worth); Bobby Lopez (San Antonio); Sam Malone (Houston); John McCarty (Dallas/Fort Worth); Chrissie Murnin (San Antonio); Denise Partridge (Houston); and Mark Watkins (Dallas/Fort Worth). The class of 2017 will be honored in three months (11/4) at the Texas Museum of Broadcasting and Communications in Kilgore.
Comcast Advertising Execs to Headline Radio Breakfast. Members of Comcast Cable’s marketing
team, including senior vice president of media strategy & sciences Kavita Vazirani, will participate in a discussion moderated by Radio Advertising Bureau president/CEO Erica Farber regarding the company’s relationship with radio. According to Farber, “Radio drives behavior, and Comcast Cable is a prime example of a top advertiser using radio as a method of communication to new and existing customers about new products and services. We look forward to welcoming Kavita Vazirani and her marketing team in Austin at the Radio Show to discuss radio’s role in their advertising mix.” The event will be held (Thursday) September 7 (7:30 am – 9:00 am) at Austin’s JW Marriott. The Radio Show is produced by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the RAB.
WNYC Studios Adds Bharara Podcast. “Stay Tuned with Preet,” a podcast hosted by former U.S. attorney for the southern district of New York Preet Bharara, has 
been picked up for distribution by WNYC Studios. The podcast – described by WNYC as being a series about justice and fairness – is produced by his brother Vinit Bharara’s media firm Some Spider Studios and Pineapple Street Media. According to New York Public Radio president and chief executive officer Laura Walker, “WNYC Studios is honored to add Preet Bharara’s compelling and timely podcast to our lineup. We have built our portfolio around distinct personalities; ‘Stay Tuned with Preet’ promises to bring podcast audiences and people interested in our political and legal 
culture something new, relevant, and utterly engaging.” Vinit Bharara adds, “I am really looking forward to Preet launching his podcast and sharing with the world his unique insights about justice and fairness – especially at a time when those two issues are at stake.” Initially asked to stay on board by the administration, Preet Bharara was fired by President Trump in March.
TALKERS News Notes. Hosted by NPR international correspondent Gregory Warner, “Rough Translation” is a new podcast about how topics that are discussed in America are handled in other countries. Debuting next Monday (8/14), “Rough Translation” will release new episodes weekly. Correspondents 
from NPR bureaus worldwide will contribute stories to the podcast, a product of NPR StoryLab ….. As first reported by the Rochester Post-Bulletin, Rich Peterson last Friday (8/4) closed out his 43-year radio career and 18 years as host of Townsquare Media Rochester, Minnesota news/talk KROC’s “Good Morning” show. In addition to two separate KROC “AM 1340” stints, Peterson worked at Omaha news/talk KFAB. Taking over the KROC morning slot are “This Morning with Gordon Deal” and Salem’s Mike Gallagher.
KDAY Back as Raiders’ Los Angeles FM Affiliate. Syndicated via Compass Media Networks and originating from Entercom San Francisco’s KGMZ 
“95.7 The Game,” Oakland Raiders football broadcasts will be carried in Los Angeles on Meruelo Media’s KDAY “Back in the Day Hits.” KDAY program director Adrian Scott declares that, “KDAY is the perfect [radio] home for the Raiders in Los Angeles. Hip-hop fans are the most passionate Raiders’ 
fans in Southern California and we are thrilled to continue to be the exclusive FM radio station delivering the Oakland Raiders.” The Raiders’ radio team consists of Greg Papa and former Raiders quarterback (1960 – 1966) and head coach (1979 – 1987) Tom Flores. The NFL franchise played in Los Angeles for 12 years (1982 – 1994) and have committed to move to Las Vegas upon completion of a stadium projected for the 2020 season.
O’Brien, Smith Added to WJXA Morning Mix. In two weeks (8/21), Midwest Communications Nashville adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9” will debut a morning show featuring Brandon O’Brien and Ricki Smith. O’Brien most recently was the afternoon talent at Sinclair 
Telecable Norfolk country outlet WUSH “US-106.1,” while Smith arrives from Hubbard St. Louis adult hits WARH “106.5 The Arch,” where he was morning co-host. They will join producer/co-host Clint Redwine and succeed Kim Leslie, who exited after 10 years to develop a non-profit organization. Meanwhile, former “Mix” morning co-host Anna Marie is segueing to nights. Vice president and market manager Dennis Gwiazdon states, “When you find the talent you feel will help add exciting new chapters to the storied history of ‘Mix,” you only have one choice – hire them. I can’t wait to hear this [morning] show come together. Anna has been the heart and soul of ‘Mix’ for a long, long time. I am delighted we can apply her special talents to the evening show where she can fully expand on her unique ability to connect with listeners.” Operations manager Barbara Bridges comments, “I am so excited to add Brandon and Ricki to the morning show. These two individuals have a ton of talent. This combination with Clint will elevate an already successful morning show to the next level – we are thrilled this all came together. Anna has a 20-year track record of success with our female audience; our fans absolutely love her. The warmth and connection she will bring to a special nighttime show will be amazing. I can’t wait to hear what we can do when Anna gets rolling.” O’Brien remarks, “Not only do I live in the greatest city in the world, I will also have an opportunity to be a huge part of the Nashville community and work alongside some amazing and talented folks.” Smith notes, “A personality looks for nothing more than what happens every day with this incredible team of talented people in Nashville. I am totally pumped about being able to contribute to the station’s continued success.” Anna Marie adds, “I love my listeners and this move gives me the opportunity to get closer to them. We have had a wonderful 20-year relationship so far – now we get a new time and space to get together.” July 2017 results will be released on Thursday (8/10), but among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s June 2017 PPM report, “Mix” finishes in fifth-place (6.8, 6+), one full-share behind the pacesetter, iHeartMedia classic rocker WNRQ (7.8, 6+).
TKRN Taps Thomas for Affiliate Relations. Former program director and brand manager of Entercom Charlotte hot AC WLNK “107.9 The 
Link” Darla Thomas joins the affiliate relations department of the Tom Kent Radio Network (TKRN), representing adult contemporary and hot AC products. TKRN senior vice president of affiliations Ed Douglas comments, “Having a pro of the stature of Darla Thomas join our affiliate team is a dream come true. She understands the adult contemporary world and she values the commitment Tom Kent has made to making great radio.” Thomas notes, “I have known Tom for years and I am so impressed by the network he has built across the country. When Ed asked me to join the team, I just couldn’t resist the chance to help build the 
TKRN brand and make it even bigger. I am excited to get started.” Thomas’ previous programming credits include iHeartMedia Charlotte adult hits WLKO “102.9 The Lake,” and five years as operations manager for Journal Broadcast Group Tucson, after programming that company’s Omaha hot AC KSRZ “Star 104.5.”
Charlotte’s “Block” Inks Dutchess. One of the stars of the VH1 series “Black Ink Crew” – Dutchess – is added to the on-air lineup of Radio One Charlotte 
urban contemporary WQNC “92.7 The Block.” The Charlotte native and cum laude graduate of North Carolina A&T State University will handle Sunday 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm duty. Radio One Charlotte vice president and general manager Doug James states, “Dutchess is an exceptional artist and media personality. We are very excited that she is bringing her talents to our fantastic 
lineup.” Radio One Charlotte program director Mary K. notes, “I am thrilled to have Dutchess join [our] team. She has great energy, a contagious spirit, generous heart, and immeasurable talents.” Splitting time between North Carolina and New York, Dutchess opened a tattoo shop, Pretty in Ink, in Charlotte.
Sanderson, Ramsey Headed to WNFN for Middays, Nights. Arriving from iHeartMedia Nashville CHR WRVW “107.5 The River,” where she was assistant digital PD and part-time on-air talent, Kage Sanderson crosses the street to Midwest Communications’ similarly-programmed WNFN “i106.7 
Nashville’s New Hit Music” for midday duty, as well as being the station’s social media coordinator. In addition, JR Ramsey from Townsquare Media Portland, Maine CHR WJBQ “Q-97.7” joins “i106.7” to handle nights. Sanderson comments that she is “stoked for this new role at WNFN. Doing radio in Nashville – an electric city that I truly love – is unbelievable. I can’t wait to connect with our listeners and be part of this fantastic growing station.” 
Ramsey notes, “I can’t express how excited I am to be making this big move to Nashville. I am really looking forward to cracking the mic and entertaining the city.” He and Sanderson begin their new assignments in roughly two weeks (8/21). Meanwhile, WNFN assistant program director/music director/9:00 am – 2:00 pm personality “Butter” adds on-air duties at co-owned adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9” and will be videographer for WNFN; “Mix”; and co-owned adult hits WCJK “Jack-FM.”
Now Appearing – Harry Connick Jr. Currently promoting his television show “Harry,” Harry Connick Jr. stopped by iHeartMedia Milwaukee CHR WRNW “97.3 Now” prior to his guest appearance at the Wisconsin State Fair. Pictured left to right are “Now” morning show personalities Rahny Taylor and Binky Lee, Connick, and morning show producer “Dave.”
Cumulus Media Des Moines Tickets Taylor as Operations Manager. Six-year Townsquare Media St. Cloud, Minnesota operations manager Chad Taylor transitions to Cumulus Media Des Moines for similar duties at its five-
station cluster. In addition to his OM duties, Taylor will host afternoon drive on country KJJY “92.5 Nash Icon.” Cumulus
Media Des Moines vice president and market manager Craig Hodgson comments, “Chad is a highly-regarded operations manager, program director, and on-air talent. He is as active and community involved as they come. We will enjoy having him on our team and look forward to achieving great things together.” Taylor notes, “My wife was born and raised in Altoona. She is set to enjoy all things Iowa again and has already purchased a family pass to Adventureland. I’m beyond excited to work alongside the talented team at Cumulus Des Moines.” Prior to working in St. Cloud, Taylor was operations manager/program director for Community First Broadcasting’s three Iowa Great Lakes-area stations. The Cumulus Media Des Moines cluster consists of KBGG “1700 AM News-Talk-Sports”; KGGO “Classic Rock That Rocks”; KHKI “97.3 Nash FM”; KJJY “92.5 Nash Icon”; and KWQW “98.3 The Vibe Classic Hip-Hop.”
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Scheduled to perform at CBS Radio Los Angeles adult hits KCBS-FM “Jack’s 12th Show” October 7 at Irvine’s Fivepoint Amphitheater are 311, Cypress Hill, 
Gin Blossoms, Eve 6, Lit, and The Offspring. Proceeds will benefit Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) ….. Approximately 17% ($50,000) of the $294,091 Entercom Greenville, South Carolina helped raise during the Children’s Miracle Network radiothon was given by a father whose son was killed by a drunk driver ….. After hiring Tom Ferguson (“Ferg”) for afternoon drive duties, Entercom Wilkes Barre-Scranton classic rock WMQX “Max 102.3” operations manager Michael O’Donnell comments, “He is a born and raised Northeast Pennsylvania guy who knows his audience. He has a natural ability to relate to them and will raise the roof on PM drive.” Ferguson formerly worked at crosstown Times-Shamrock alternative WFUZ “Alt 92.1” ….. The former music director of Townsquare Media Flint, Michigan rhythmic CHR WRCL “Club 93.7” Art “Artemis” Smith remains in the Great Lake State as he joins Midwest Communications mainstream CHR WLMI “i-92.9,” Lansing today (Tuesday, 8/8) as brand manager. 
Midwest Communications vice president of programming Jeff McCarthy remarks, “We are excited to have Art lead our team. He has demonstrated a solid work ethic and strong working knowledge of the contemporary hit format.” Prior to working at WRCL, 
Smith was promotions director and night talent at WKHQ, Traverse City, Michigan ….. While a replacement hasn’t been named yet to succeed her, afternoon drive personality Nikki Reid (also known as Erika Kay) departs iHeartMedia Tulsa CHR KTBT “92.1 The Beat.” Reid/Kay joined “The Beat” in March 2016 from WNDV “U-93,” South Bend (Indiana) ….. Following an extended medical leave, former WSLC “Star Country 94.9” midday talent Robynn Jaymes returns 
to the Mel Wheeler-owned Roanoke, Virginia station for weekend/swing duty. Taking to Facebook, she writes, “When illness took me off the radio, I wondered if I would ever [again] have the privilege to be on the air, sharing music and connecting with [the audience. Returning] this past Sunday [8/6] was a dream come true.” Jaymes has undergone surgery and multiple treatments since 2011, when she began battling pancreatitis ….. 
Meanwhile, 2013 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductee Don Carpenter returns to Springfield, Missouri, signing on with Midwest Family country outlet KOMG “100.5 The Bull” to host a classic country show. In the 1980s, Carpenter did morning drive in the Missouri market at CHR KWTO-FM before grabbing similar duties as “Dr. Don” at CBS Radio Detroit’s country-formatted WYCD. In 
two separate tenures, “Dr. Don” spent 18 years at WYCD; he has been off the air the past two years ….. WUSW “US-92.7,” Springfield, Illinois program director and morning co-host Kellie Michaels will leave the Mid-West Family Broadcasting country station in two weeks (8/21). She has been co-hosting “Brian & Kellie” with her husband Brian Pierce for 25 years. After 15 years at co-owned adult contemporary WNNS, they went to country KFDI, Wichita (2007 – 2015), before returning to Springfield at “US-92.7.” Pierce will continue as morning co-host with Troy Armstrong assuming the co-host role. Michaels remarks, “I wanted to step back and spend more time on other interests. I’ve had a great time with Brian doing mornings. I will certainly miss the fun he and I have had, but certainly won’t miss the early morning hours.”
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
WWL, New Orleans Names Sheriff Newell Normand to Replace Garland Robinette. The midday show at Entercom’s news/talk WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans has been open since Garland Robinette retired. Now, the station surprises the market by convincing Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand to trade in his badge for a microphone. Normand will retire from his sheriff’s position on August 31 and join the radio station on September 11. Normand says, “It was a tough
decision because I love my work, my officers, and the people of Jefferson Parish. But, this is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I always listened to Garland and admired his voice in our 
community. He played a pivotal role in New Orleans’ recovery and rebirth from Katrina. Plus, good leaders know when it’s time to move on. I’m satisfied that Jefferson Parish is in great shape. The crime rate hasn’t been this low since 1974. And strong leadership is ready to step in and take over a great team – one I care about deeply and will miss dearly.” WWL operations and program director Diane Newman states, “I can honestly say we surprised Sheriff Normand. Called him out of the blue one day and asked if he’d consider a career change. It was a long shot – he’s one of our most popular and effective leaders – a powerful man with one powerful voice. But, just as Garland always seemed bigger than the box called television, Newell always seemed more than the uniform. His voice will be amplified behind the WWL mic, allowing him and us to make even deeper connections with our community. There are sides to Newell Normand that most people don’t know. This show will give him room to expand – to display not just his unmatched smarts and institutional knowledge, but that passion and love of community that he always had to reign in as sheriff. Talent as big as the stage.”
iHM Promotes Tony Molaee to iHeartRadio Post. New York-based iHeartMedia staffer Tony
Molaee is promoted to VP of digital programming and operations for iHeartRadio. The company says that in this new role, he will support the national digital programming team as well as continue to support iHeartRadio’s local New York market as digital lead. “Molaee’s local experience and digital expertise will serve the overall organization by identifying what content will help continue to drive more traffic to iHeartRadio’s individual local radio station websites, as well as nationally.”
Salem’s ‘Made in America’ Day at the White House. Pictured above are Salem Radio Network vice president/news & talk programming Tom Tradup (left) and SRN talk show host Hugh Hewitt (right) getting ready to kick off yesterday’s “Made in America” day broadcasts from the White House. Guests on yesterday’s shows included new White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci, Energy Secretary Rick Perry and State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert.
WMBD, Peoria’s Power Failure Plan Keeps Station On Air. Much of downtown Peoria lost power last Tuesday (7/18) but Alpha Media’s stations in the market moved quickly to remain on the
air. News/talk WMBD went old school by broadcasting at the transmitter site. Greg Batton – of the “Greg and Dan” morning show – went with WMBD traffic reporter Ken Zurski and chief engineer Wayne Miller and other staffers to the transmitter in Tazewell County. Batton (pictured here in the transmitter building) and Zurski were on the air commercial free during the outage. Other staffers sent WMBD’s content via Marti to another tower site for three more Alpha stations. Then “Mix 106.9” program director and morning host Randy Rundle joined Batton and Zurski for the unique show. Dan DiOrio, Batton’s co-host, along with news anchor Ed Hammond and producer Cory Wara, remained at the studio facility in case the power came back on, and along with morning shows from the other Alpha stations, fed content to social media and station websites via cell data. Alpha Media Peoria SVP/market manager Mike Wild comments, “Our number one priority is serving the community and I’m extra proud of our team for how they handled this unscripted situation. They moved quickly and were able to keep our listeners and users well informed. This is what Alpha Media is all about – live and local!”
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated late-night talk show host Jim Bohannon is
scheduled to deliver the summer commencement address at University of North Georgia in Dahlonega, Georgia on Saturday, July 29. The Westwood One personality says that he will “forgo the big picture so popular in commencement addresses, and will tell graduates about the ‘little picture.’”…..WHO, Des Moines-based talk show host Simon Conway 
makes a change to his work on WMT, Cedar Rapids. Conway had been hosting a separate 9:00 am to 11:00 am program on WMT for some time while doing his afternoon show on WHO. Now, iHeartMedia is simulcasting his 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm show on both stations and Conway is giving up the late morning show on WMT as he ramps up efforts to spread his program across Iowa…..Seven new podcasts have joined the Earwolf comedy network on the Midroll Media podcast platform owned by Scripps. The shows include: “Off Book,” the “first-ever improvised musical podcast,” Jessica McKenna and Zach Reino; “Homophilia,” featuring MTV host Dave Holmes, comedian Matt McConkey and a celebrity guest for a candid conversation on what they’re loving in pop culture and who they are loving in their romantic lives; episodes of the popular 1960s comedy radio show “Chickenman”; “Cracked Movie Club”; “Cracked Gets Personal”; “Throwing Shade”; and “James Bonding.”…..Grammy Award-winning musician Darius Rucker begins a new golf show airing monthly on SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio titled, “On Par with Darius Rucker” on July 26…..Pantsuit Nation and DGital Media launch a new weekly podcast titled, “This Pod is Your Pod,” featuring co-hosts Libby Chamberlain and Cortney Tunis.
Hangin’ Out with Mama. Nationally syndicated talk show host Dr. Daliah Wachs (right) poses for a pic with iconic comic actress Vicki Lawrence (left) in Las Vegas. Lawrence – well-known for her work on the “Carol Burnett Show” and creating the character “Mama” – was in Vegas doing “Vicki Lawrence and Mama: A Two Woman Show.” Lawrence is also a spokeswoman for CIUandYou that raises awareness for Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria – a condition that produces chronic hives with no known cause. Lawrence appeared on Wachs’ GCN-syndicated program during her stop in Las Vegas.
CMG’s Gamut Names Four Executives. The Cox Media Group subsidiary Gamut – a “solutions-based” advertising organization – names four to new positions. Soo Jin Oh is Gamut’s new vice president of client strategy & solutions; Meghan Bentley is now director of business development; Jason Whidby is regional director of sales, West; and Blake McClean is regional director of sales, Southeast.
GOP Renews Plans to Vote on Health Care, Trump-Russia Investigation, Russia Sanctions Vote, NYTimes-Fox News Tiff, China Beefing Up N. Korea Border, Smuggled Illegals Deaths/Sanctuary Cities Controversy, Sister Livestreams Sister’s Death, Jeff Sessions’ Job Security, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/24). Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s effort to force a vote in the Senate to repeal ObamaCare; the controversy over meetings between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the House bill that would increase sanctions on Russia, as well as Iran and North Korea; the skirmish between The New York Times and Fox News over the latter’s reporting that the NYT published information that hindered the U.S.’s search for ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi; speculation about what China’s increased activity near its North Korean border means; the deaths of 10 illegals in a tractor trailer in San Antonio and the related criticism of sanctuary cities; a Fresno teen is arrested on DUI charges after livestreaming the car crash that killed her younger sister; rumors that President Trump wants to fire Attorney General Jeff Sessions; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Dana Barrett Appears on HLN with Lynn Smith. Pictured above are WAFS, Atlanta “biz1190” mid-morning personality Dana Barrett (right) during her recent appearance on HLN’s “Weekend Express” with host Lynn Smith (left). Barrett spoke about the gender pay gap relative to the recent story revealing the BBC’s disparate gender pay stats.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (7/25) with Heather Cohen, Brian Kilmeade and Scott Lakefield. The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are:
– The “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein).
– The special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan).
– The “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon).
– The “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo).
– The special presentation “The Trump Effect: Latest Research of Interest to News/Talk Radio” by Salem Radio Network SVP Phil Boyce (with introduction by Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host Brad Shepard).
– The special presentation “Podcasting and Local Radio” by PodcastOne excutive chairman Norm Pattiz (with introduction by Hubbard Radio SVP/programming Greg Strassell).
– The first, second and third in a series of three consecutive “one-on-one” sessions discussing the topic “Maximizing Talk Radio’s Multi-Platform Potential for Reach and Revenue” featuring conversations between WABC, New York, PD Craig Schwalb and KGO, San Francisco host Ethan Bearman, Bold Gold Media Group president/CEO Vince Benedetto and DGital Media managing partner Ron Hartenbaum, and nationally syndicated host Dr. Asa Andrew and TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein. All three sessions are facilitated by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio host Karen Hunter.
– A “one-on-one” dialogue titled “Radio That Makes a Difference” featuring the SiriusXM Satellite Radio husband/wife team of host Joe Madison and executive producer Sharon Madison (introduced by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio VP/GM talk programming Dave Gorab).
– A “Fireside Chat” featuring former CBS Radio president/CEO and Broadcasters Foundation of America chairman Dan Mason being interviewed by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (with introduction by BOB-FM, London morning host Graham Mack).
– A “Fireside Chat” featuring Emmis Communications CEO/chairman Jeff Smulyan being interviewed by TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey (with an introduction by Bentley University professor/TALKERS legal editor Steve Weisman).
– The first two in a series of four “one-on-one” dialogues titled “The Challenges of Doing Talk Radio in 2017.” They feature a conversation between WYD Media syndicated host Thom Hartmann and Cumulus Media corporate PD/WMAL, Washington PD Bill Hess (introduced by Moceri Media president Greg Moceri), a conversation between morning co-host of WAQY-FM (Rock102), Springfield, MA Mike “Bax” Baxendale and morning host of WOLB, Baltimore Larry Young, and a conversation between Cumulus Media EVP programming and content Mike McVay and Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott (facilitated by ABC News Radio VP/GM Steve Jones).
– The first two in a series of four “one-on-one” dialogues collectively titled, “Where Does Talk Media Go From Here?” featuring a conversation between WRHU, Hofstra University OM John T. Mullen and WRFH, Hillsdale College GM Scot Bertram, and a conversation between The New Normal CEO/founder/host Tom Leykis and syndicated host Michael Berry (facilitated by WOR, New York APD Scott Lakefield).
– TODAY (7/25) we posted the third of four in the above series of “one-on-one” dialogues “Where Does Talk Media Go From Here?” featuring a conversation between The Weiss Agency EVP Heather Cohen and Fox News Radio/Fox News Channel host Brian Kilmeade (again, facilitated by WOR, New York APD Scott Lakefield).
Within the following days and weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
PPM Analysis: Urban Contemporary. The third of our four-part series examining the performances of stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2017 PPM survey turns to the urban contemporary format. Managing editor Mike Kinosian writes that when looking at 6+ share, “nearly half (48%) of this urban contemporary panel regresses year-to-year; 45% improve (the same percentage as month-to-month); and 6% are unchanged from June 2016.” Urban One’s WERQ, Baltimore “92 Q Jams” is the only urban contemporary station in a PPM market to rank #1 in June. However, eight other stations ranked in the top five in their respective markets. Check out the whole report here.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. In San Diego, Midwest Television’s rock “100.7 KFM-BFM” names Mikey Esparza the host of the 3:00 pm to 7:30 pm PM drive show. Program
director Mike V. Vasquez says, “Mikey’s passion for creating compelling content and his love of rock and roll make him the ideal choice to entertain San Diego during the afternoon commute. With ‘The DSC’ entertaining our fans in the morning, the legendary Robin Roth rockin’ the workday and ‘The Mikey Show’ on the drive home, ‘KFM-BFM’ is committed to delivering quality programming.”…..Matt Derrick becomes operations manager for NRG Media’s Omaha FM stations, including hot AC KQKQ “Sweet 98.5,” hip hop KOPW “Power 106.9,” and classic rock KOOO “101.9 The Keg.” Previously, Derrick served with iHeartMedia as SVP of programming in Norfolk-Virginia Beach…..Emmis’ CHR KNOU, St. Louis signs up with Focus 360’s programmatic networks “Powered by Jelli” – repped by Envision Networks. The cloud-based ad platform traffics, serves and reports campaigns using Jelli’s RadioSpot.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Michael Savage in Altercation with Man at California Restaurant. Several news reports indicate that Westwood One nationally syndicated talk show host Michael Savage was allegedly assaulted by an unidentified man outside a restaurant in Tiburon, California. According to TMZ, the Daily Mail and other media outlets, while
Savage was eating inside Servino Ristorante with his pet poodle Teddy, the man taunted him by repeatedly saying “weener, weener” – a reference to Savage’s legal surname, Weiner. It’s not clear how it escalated but one report says the two got into some sort of scuffle outside the restaurant, ending with each man declaring the other under a citizen’s arrest. Police arrived, interviewed both men and released them. The local district attorney’s office is reviewing the matter and will determine if charges will be filed. Savage’s attorney – Daniel Horowitz – told the Mercury News that another restaurant patron who attempted to intervene was punched in the face by the heckler.
NPR Ratings at ‘All-Time High.’ Based on data from Nielsen Audio, NPR is reporting that “the total weekly listeners for all programming on NPR stations reached an all-time high of about 37.5 million in the fall of 2016 – a nearly 4 million person increase from the same period in 2015. Listeners for NPR programming and NPR Newscasts 
account for about 30 million of that total.” During the build-up to the 2016 election and in the months since, talk-oriented public radio has seen its 6+ ratings in Nielsen’s PPM markets improve. NPR SVP of news and editorial director Michael Oreskes states, “At a time when many news organizations have been forced to contract, NPR is expanding coverage and focusing resources on the local and national issues that listeners care about. Now, more and more people are turning to NPR as their source for unbiased fact-based news.” NPR also notes that flagship programs, “All Things Considered” and “Morning Edition,” reached their largest weekly audience ever, at 14.4 million and 14.65 million listeners, respectively. “The number of listeners for all NPR programming increased considerably this year, particularly in the coveted 25-44 age demographic which expanded by 26%.” Additionally, NPR says that its digital content at NPR.org has average monthly users grow by 28%.
BFoA to Honor Jeff Smulyan with Lowry Mays Award. This honor from the Broadcasters Foundation of America will be presented to Emmis Communications founder and chairman Jeff Smulyan at the BFoA
annual breakfast at the NAB Show in Las Vegas on April 26. The Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award is bestowed annually by the BFoA on an individual in broadcasting whose work exemplifies innovation, community service, advocacy, and entrepreneurship. It salutes its namesake Lowry Mays and is underwritten by The Mays Family Foundation. The breakfast is complimentary to all, although pre-registration is required.
Westwood One Adds Two Shows to Podcast Offerings. Audio content syndicator and sales division
Westwood One announces new partnerships with Frances Callier and Angela V. Shelton, known together as the comedic duo Frangela (right), and radio pro, author, blogger and cancer survivor Robin Marshall. Callier and Shelton are hosting WW1’s 
first fully produced podcast titled “Frangela: The Final Word,” that promises “insights and witty perspective on news and culture.” Marshall’s “Sugar Mom” is for “smart and sexy women who want to try something new.” Both programs are available via the iTunes and audioBoom platforms. Westwood One president/Cumulus Media EVP corporate marketing Suzanne Grimes comments, “Frances, Angela, and Robin are powerful women who inspire, motivate, and make us laugh. Westwood One is proud to help these fresh and funny shows build audience and brand partnerships.”
TALKERS News Notes. Hard-working talk show host Simon Conway (left) is doing a couple days of triple duty
Monday, November 4, 2019
Impeachment Process, 2020 Presidential Race, California Wildfires, McDonald’s CEO Fired, Hong Kong Violence, and Kanye West’s Sunday Service Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The impeachment process against President Trump and speculation about who will be called to testify; the Democrats vying to challenge Trump in 2020; the status of the California wildfires; McDonald’s CEO Steve Easterbrook is fired for having a relationship with an employee; the violent clashes between protesters and police in Hong Kong; and rapper Kanye West’s Louisiana “Sunday Service” were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Todd Starnes Launches New, Three-Hour Talk Show Today. Author, award-winning journalist, and former FOX News Radio personality Todd Starnes begins hosting his new, daily talk show today (11/4). “The Todd Starnes Show” airs from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET and is premiering on more than 25 radio stations via syndication through Hamilton Strategies. Starnes says the
program is a caller-driven format and weaves his unique, down-home humor with interviews featuring major newsmakers, entertainers, artists, and Christian leaders. He also covers breaking news and stories from across America. “I don’t spend three hours yelling at folks,” he adds. “Sure, I get riled up, but we also share plenty of laughs with our listeners. Callers are an important part of our program. Conservative or liberal, we give folks a fair shake.” In addition to the new show, Starnes also produces the daily, short-form feature, “Todd Starnes News & Commentary,” that includes unique, one-minute stories covering politics, culture, and heartland headlines. Starnes says, “I believe in taking care of our affiliates, taking care of our sponsors, and taking care of our listeners. I am first and foremost a radio guy. I love the format and I believe that radio will continue to have a lasting impact on the nation.” Interested stations can contact Hamilton Strategies via: Media@HamiltonStrategies.com or (610) 584-1096, ext. 101.
WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans Fires Seth Dunlap. WVUE-TV, New Orleans reports that Entercom news/talk WWL-AM/FM has fired evening sports talk host Seth Dunlap, almost two months after he took a leave from the station in the aftermath of the posting of a homophobic slur directed at him on the
station’s Twitter account. The case is still in the hands of the New Orleans Police Department after Entercom requested it get involved following its own investigation. The station says it appears Dunlap posted the tweet himself, but his attorney says that, not only did Dunlap not have access to the station’s password for the Twitter account, he passed a polygraph test pointing to his innocence. Early last month the NOPD obtained a warrant for information from Dunlap’s cell phone. At the same time, according to a previous New Orleans Times Picayune story, Entercom alleged Dunlap is engaging in extortion after seeking a $1.85 million settlement. Dunlap’s attorney, Megan Keifer, alleges Entercom is not complying with requests for documents to “substantiate their defamatory claims” and also has not produced documentation for the NOPD.
TALKERS News Notes. Talk show host Joe Madison is the focus of a piece in the Los Angeles Sentinel the centers around his belief that ordinary citizens can
make a difference in their government. The story also reveals that the SiriusXM Urban View host’s program was targeted by Russian trolls during the 2016 election. Madison tells the paper’s Nadine Matthews that after getting calls to the program from Blacks encouraging other Blacks not to vote, he discovered his show was being targeted. “We found out that the Russians had actually hired African Americans to target social media and Black news/talk programs.” Read 
the story here…..Sports talk host Josh Innes – formerly of WIP, Philadelphia and KILT-AM and KBME-AM in Houston – is filling in on the afternoon drive show on Gow Media’s KFNC-FM, Houston “ESPN 97.5” today (11/4). Innes has been off the AM/FM airwaves and has been focusing on his eponymous podcast since exiting KBME eight months ago…..Salem Media Group’s WNTP, Philadelphia re-brands the station as “Philadelphia’s AM 990 The Answer.” Salem Philly general
manager Lorenzo Caldara says, “The change to ‘Philadelphia’s AM 990 The Answer’ more accurately reflects what we have always desired to be as a radio station – one that always went deeper into issues that matter to all of us, one that provides answers to the many questions we all have. With the addition of Chris Stigall in the mornings, we now have the added dimension to focus on local issues just as closely as we can on national issues. We’re proud of this city, and it’s time to serve it better than ever before.”…..Toledo’s “Talk Radio 100.7” is gone as Cumulus Media replaces the format with rock “100.7 The Zone” on WQQO-HD2/W264AK. The signals became the home of the news/talk format three years ago after the company moved the programming from WTOD-AM and turned in the station’s license…..WHO, Des Moines afternoon drive talk host Simon
Conway is doing double duty, filling in all this week on iHeartMedia’s sister news/talk WFLF, Orlando “Newsradio WFLA” in morning drive for “Good Morning Orlando” host Bud Hedinger in addition to his own program…..Envision Networks is offering stations 24 segments of its new “60 Seconds of Service” feature to air once per hour on Veterans Day (11/11).
Stations are invited to broadcast “60 Seconds of Service” throughout the entire day, with each segment spotlighting men, women and even animals in uniform who have served their country and their communities. Program host Randy Miller says, “Veterans Day should be every day in the United States. We should never forget the sacrifice of the men and women who wear the uniform and give their all to protect our way of life. We do 60 Seconds of Service to remind everyone about the continuous commitment of the less than 1 percent who serve our country each and every day.”…..Pictured below is WNYM “AM 970 The Answer” and WMCA “The Mission” talk show host Kevin McCullough with some of the guests that appeared on his Salem Media Group program that broadcast live from Bobby Vans “The Original” in the historic Helmsley Building in New York City. McCullough says more than 300 listeners packed the place for his 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm broadcast. Guests on the program included: Donald Trump Jr., Kimberly Guilfoyle, and congressional candidates Mike Ghassali, Chele Farley, Nicole Malliotakis, and Fernando Cabrera.
BFoA to Honor George Beasley with Lifetime Achievement Award. At the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s Golden Mike Award dinner on March 4, 2020, Beasley Media Group founder and chairman George Beasley will be honored with the 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award. The annual fundraising gala takes place at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. BFoA chairman Dan
Mason says, “George is one of the forward-thinking pioneers of radio and a longtime supporter of our charitable mission. Starting off with radio stations in small market America and expanding to major cities, George built the company that bears his name with ingenuity, integrity, and innovation. We are delighted to recognize his leadership in our industry.” George Beasley comments, “I fell in love with radio early in my career, and I have been fortunate to be a part of this wonderful business as it has grown and expanded. Giving back is an important tradition in our family, and it is an honor to support the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation to help those in our industry who need it most.”
News Gigs at FOX News. There are three positions that FOX News Radio and FOX News are seeking to fill. The first is an Overnight Freelance Anchor for Fox News Radio that includes on-air duties for FOX News Radio and the FOX News
Headlines 24/7 channel on SiriusXM. See that job description here. The second is a Freelance Writer for Fox News Headlines 24/7 that involves writing news for the national news network, conceptualizing, writing, compiling enterprise stories, fact checking, and building show content newscasts for FOX News Headlines 24/7. See that job description here. The third position is a Freelance Producer/News Editor in which the successful candidate will supervise the staff for the FOX network radio news operation, FOX News Headlines 24/7. See that job description here.
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