Tag: "Josh Leng"

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

| December 19, 2018

FOX News Radio’s Brian Kilmeade Show to Air Live on WABC, New York.  Beginning January 2, the FOX News Radio-syndicated Brian Kilmeade show will air live in the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon slot on Cumulus Media‘s 77 WABC, replacing the Chris Plante program.  Kilmeade, co-host of FOX News Channel’s “FOX & Friends” morning show, is also a New York Times bestselling author.  Kilmeade says, “As a Long Island native, I grew up listening to WABC and having been doing so my whole life.  Being a guest on the station has always been an honor, but to now have my nationally syndicated radio show carried by WABC, is a career goal that I am humbled to achieve.  This is a real reflection of not only just me, but of my incredible team, including Alyson Mansfield, Eric Albeen, and Pete Caterina.”  Kilmeade’s radio program has been experiencing steady growth in affiliate adds and close to 30 new stations will pick up the program on December 31, including: KSEV, Houston; KOIL, Omaha; KIVA, Albuquerque; KLIN, Lincoln; and WVFT-FM, Tallahassee.  FOX News Radio VP/GM Doug Murphy states, “‘The Brian Kilmeade Show’ is a staple to the FOX News Radio brand and has proven to be an enormous success.  We are delighted to expand the program to broadcast live on WABC.”

Tom Sullivan Show Growing into 2019. The nationally syndicated Tom Sullivan show is experiencing a “renaissance,” according to syndicator Talk Media Network, “thanks to a fully staffed affiliate relations team.” Talk Media Network’s Josh Leng says the KFBK, Sacramento-based program has added 12 new stations to its roster recently (including KSRO, Santa Rosa; WGOW-FM, Chattanooga; and WLFJ-AM/W225AZ, Greenville-Spartanburg) and has another 10 stations inked to add the program in the New Year.  Tom Sullivan says, “I’m thrilled to be adding so many new stations to my show, expanding our audience even further – the smartest audience, the smartest callers in talk radio, who add to the program and make it even more entertaining.”  Leng adds, “Talk Media Network is affiliate friendly in all we do.  Stations that have worked with us for years, airing our weekly programs, are now adding our weekday shows as well.  The New Year will only get bigger and better as TMN continues adding more quality programming.”

Eric Hadley Appointed SVP of Marketing for iHeartMedia. Advertising pro Eric Hadley is named senior vice president of marketing for iHeartMedia, serving under EVP and chief marketing officer Gayle Troberman.  In this role, Hadley is charged with reimagining “marketing for advertising partners.  He will work closely with advertising partners advising them on their audio strategy, to ensure that clients understand how to best plan, buy, measure and optimize the audio experience.”  Troberman adds, “As the leader in audio, we understand more than anyone that we’re at a key moment when all things audio are growing.  It’s important that we have someone who understands data, content, planning, and creative.  Eric’s experience on the client, agency and media sides of the table will help us continue to lead the way with audio.”  He most recently served as chief marketing officer for GroundTruth.  He’s also served with Microsoft, The Weather Channel, and Outbrain.

Paul A. Rothfuss Named Roanoke-Lynchburg Market Manager for iHeartMedia. General sales manager Paul A. Rothfuss is elevated to market president for iHeartMedia’s Roanoke-Lynchburg market.  He takes over for Chuck Peterson, who was recently promoted to area president for the Roanoke-Lynchburg, Harrisonburg and Winchester markets.  iHeartMedia Virginia/Carolina president Dave Carwile says, “We are thrilled to have Paul lead the Roanoke-Lynchburg market.  Paul was the first to raise his hand when the market president position posted.  He’s a proven leader who consistently displays big thinking and has a solid track record of sales leadership.  We’re excited about the future of our sales and programming teams under Paul’s leadership and direction.”

TALKERS News Notes. The “Armstrong & Getty” show – based at KSTE, Sacramento and hosted by Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty – raised more than $1 million to benefit The Warrior Foundation/Freedom Station from its recent five-day radiothon.  The charity purchases plane tickets for injured warriors so that they can spend the holidays at home and with their families. The organization also supports the military by providing transitional housing used during both recovery and transition processes.  Joe Getty says, “Many of our brave men and women come back from military service with overwhelming burdens to bear.  It’s then that we as Americans have to be there for them.  I believe that as their service ends, ours begins.” Jack Armstrong adds, “Supporting Warrior Foundation/Freedom Station is one simple way for our community to acknowledge that our freedoms only exist due to their sacrifice.  We’re proud to be a part of this effort to support our troops.”…..Comrex announces a new partnership with Maple Audio Technology, a firm that supplies the latest in technology for digital broadcast for both television and radio in Japan…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that Windy City sports talk personality Terry Boers will do some vacation fill-in work on Entercom’s WSCR “The Score” during the holidays.  Boers retired from the station in January of 2017.  He plans to sit in with Matt Spiegel on December 24 and 28 and with Steve Rosenbloom on December 27…..CBS Audio Network is offering a three-hour special called the “CBS Audio Holiday Special,” hosted by Gil Gross that covers such stories as ‘How Poinsettias Became the Holiday Flower’, ‘How Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Became Essential to the Holidays,’ ‘The history and fun stories about Menorahs and the origin and traditions of Kwanzaa.  Along with how ‘Auld Lang Syne’ became a New Year’s staple thanks to this radio network, the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) and its founder William Paley.”…..And speaking of the holidays, pictured below is Westwood One syndicated personality Jim Bohannon dressed as Santa Claus posing with his elves at the Chickasaw Point Women’s Club benefit for the Collins Children Home of Seneca, South Carolina on December 13.

iHeartMedia Confirmation Hearing Set for January 10.  After settling two lawsuits earlier this week, iHeartMedia learns that its Confirmation Hearing for exit from Chapter 11 reorganization will continue on January 10.  Judge Marvin Isgur has also set January 17 as a date for concerns regarding the Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings Separation Settlement and January 22 for addition CCOH separation settlement concerns and the GAMCO motion.  Finally, January 23 is the date to consider any remaining confirmation issues.  An important date is January 9.  That’s the deadline for filing objections to the CCOH Separation Settlement agreed to on December 16 that raises the revolving line of credit from iHeartMedia to CCOH to $200 million with iHeart is also indemnifying CCOH for up to 50% of certain tax liabilities.

Trump-Russia Investigation/Flynn Sentencing, Trump Foundation Case, Border Wall-Government Shutdown Threat, Xi Jinping Speech, Dow Activity-Recession Fears, Woody Allen Teen Lover Story, Penny Marshall Dies, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/18). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and Tuesday’s related sentencing hearing for former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn; the Trump Foundation agrees to shut down after allegations of self-dealing; the battle over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the threat of a government shut down; Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speech in which he defends China’s economic policies; the Dow’s December slough and worries about an impending recession; a former teenage lover of Woody Allen reveals her story; actress/director Penny Marshall dies at 75; 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. Nationally syndicated adult contemporary evening personality Delilah joins the program schedule at Max Media’s WVBW, Norfolk “92.9 The Wave.”  The Premiere Networks host is airing in the 7:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart…..Via an affiliation relationship with Envision Networks, Lazer Broadcasting Corporation is offering the “Radio Lazer” Spanish-language music format.  Lazer calls the format “a modern regional Mexican” one that plays today’s most popular songs in a top-40 environment…..Entravision Communications Corporation extends its agreements with Al & CM Broadcasting LLC to represent on a network basis and air Alex “El Genio” Lucas through 2020.  Alex “El Genio” Lucas’ syndicated morning radio show airs on Entravision’s “La Suavecita” radio network in 13 markets across the country.

Friday, January 29, 2016

| January 29, 2016

talkersten logoThe Presidential Race Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of January 25-29.  The activities of the candidates for president – highlighted by Thursday’s GOP debate and candidate Donald Trump’s choice not to participate – were the most-talked-about story during the week.  At #2 was the low price of oil and its effects on the world’s financial markets.  Coming in at #3 was the boycott by some black entertainment industry figures of this year’s Academy Awards show, followed by U.S. immigration and refugee policy 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.  View this week’s entire chart here.

gillemdennyFrontlines of Freedom Adds New Affiliates; Hosts Honored Veteran Guest.  The Talk Media Network-syndicated “Frontlines of Freedom” program announces the addition of 10 new affiliate stations, pushing its station roster to 105.  The weekly military and veterans talk show is hosted by Denny Gillem, LTC, U.S. Army (Retired).  Gillem states, “Our goal is the same today as when we came up with the idea for Frontlines of Freedom: To assist our listeners in better understanding the role of our military, and the challenges our nation faces.”  New affiliate stations include: WWRC, Washington; KBNP, Portland; and WGMD-FM, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.  Talk Media Network CEO Josh Leng reports that the program recently hosted a special guest.  “You need to have great content to attract and retain an audience, and the colonel’s interview this week with Chris ‘Tonto’ Paronto, one of the heroes portrayed in the movie 13 HOURS: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, is another example of our commitment to delivering compelling stories and information through ‘Frontlines of Freedom.’”  Program host Lt. Col. Denny Gillem is a graduate of West Point and is an Airborne Ranger.  He served 22 years in the US Army, including two tours in Vietnam, where he earned seven awards for valor and two Purple Hearts.  He also served as a Mideast War Planner and later ran the ROTC program at the University of Tampa.

Odds & Sods.  During Super Bowl week, FOX Sports Radio announces it will again present programming fromfoxsportsradio logo the Bay Area in the build-up to next Sunday’s championship game.  “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” “Jay Mohr Sports,” J.T. The Brick, and the Jason Smith show with Michael Harmon will broadcast live from radio row at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, while the Dan Patrick show and the Rich Eisen show will emanate from the site of DirecTV’s remote broadcast at the historic Presidio in San Francisco…..Greater Media promotes Ellen Rubin to senior vice president and general counsel for the company.  She’s been with Greater Media since 2003.  In 2007 she was promoted to VP and general counsel.  Chairman and CEO Peter Smyth states, “Ellen is a brilliant attorney who has been a key player in shaping Greater Media’s future.  We are fortunate to have someone like Ellen in our company.”

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

| May 27, 2015

recode logoFormer Dial Global/WW1 Execs Launch Program Sales and Distribution Firm. Former Dial Global and Westwood One executives Spencer Brown and David Landau announce they are partnering with Michael Rolnick to form the firm DGital Media.  They describe it as “an audio engagement company that partners with media brands to create, distribute, and monetize spoken-word audio products.”  The company’s first venture will be the creation of the Re/code Radio network in partnership with Revere Digital LLC.  Re/code is a tech news web destination founded by journalists Walt Mossberg and Kara Swisher.  The first program to be rolled out will be “Re/code Decode” with host Kara Swisher, expected to go live in June.  Revere Digital COO Lorenzano Kennett comments, “With the proliferation of mobile devices and the popularity of podcasts, we want to make sure our content is available to our audiences wherever they are – in the car, in the office, etc.  By partnering with DGital Media, Re/code will be able to leverage our authoritative content and brand with outstanding audio programming, distribution and monetization.”  DGital Media co-founder David Landau adds, “Partnering with Re/code as a brand accomplishes exactly what we set out to do – which is to amplify media brands through audio.  The Re/code Radio network will bring the same excellence in reporting and analysis to readers through the spoken word.”  Also joining the company as chief content officer is Chris Corcoran, former EVP for content at Dial Global/Westwood One, and as executive vice president for sales and strategy, Grace Carrick, formerly vice president of sales at Dial Global/Westwood One.

2015 NYC 150Talkers New York 2015 to Mark 25th Anniversary of TALKERS Magazine.  The forthcoming 18th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important national convention – Talkers New York 2015 – will also serve as the publication’s 25th “birthday party.”  TALKERS was launched by publisher Michael Harrison in June of 1990 with the first issue of TALKERS: The Information-Radio Newspaper hitting the streets on July 23rd of that year.  TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey states, “This is an important milestone, not only for us, but for the talk radio and media industries as well.  That little trade publication provocatively named ‘Talkers’– that dared to refer to the relative handful of spoken-word stations that existed at the time as an ‘industry’ — has chronicled, championed and inspired one of the most colorful and historically significant chapters of American broadcasting ever gathered and archived in one continuous collection.  This year’s conference will serve as a milestone honoring that achievement and rich body of work.”  Casey adds, “Not only will Talkers New York 2015 have features that make note of this history but we will be publishing a number of retrospectives looking back at the past quarter-century in the days and weeks surrounding the conference and leading up to the official anniversary date in July.”  Talkers New York 2015 is sold out but a few choice sponsorship opportunities remain available.  For information, please call 413-565-5413.  To see the latest updated agenda, please click here.

alphamedia logoAlpha Media to Pay $38,250,000 for Morris and JMJ Stations.  From a filing with the FCC, we learn the price for the 36 stations that Morris Communications and JMJ operate in Topeka and Salina, Kansas; Amarillo, Texas; Palm Springs and Victor Valley, California; Anchorage and Wasilla, Alaska; Grays Harbor-Hoquiam, Washington and Wenatchee-Columbia River, Washington: $38,250,000.  This is not an all-cash deal.  Morris will receive $20 million worth of Alpha Holdings private stock (8,196,722 units in the aggregate), $6,585 worth of Alpha Holdings II private stock, and $18,250,000 in cash.

delaneykateKate Delaney Joins NBC Sports Radio for Weekend Shows.  Sports and news/talk radio pro Kate Delaney is adding weekend talk duties at NBC Sports Radio to her plate as she takes over the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm Saturday and Sunday shows from Anita Marks, who left the network to join WEPN-FM, New York “ESPN New York 98.7FM.”  During the week, Delaney is host of the GCN-syndicated “America Tonight” late night news/talk show.  NBC says Delaney’s show will feature “players, coaches, experts and analysts…from the locker room to the playing fields and beyond.”  Delaney’s sports pedigree includes being the first woman to host a solo sports radio talk show on WFAN, New York City and KRLD, Dallas.  She’s covered 15 Super Bowls, 10 U.S. Opens, and 15 Final Fours.  She has also been to the Kentucky Derby 10 times along with the other two Triple Crown races, the Preakness and the Belmont.  NBC Sports Radio program director Jack Silver comments, “It’s a major coup for us to have Kate with us on the weekends.  She connects really well with sports fans.  She’s smart, funny, and she knows her way around the world of sports.  Kate brings great energy, insight, and opinion to our weekend lineup.”

Odds & Sods. Joining the lineup of weekend talk shows at Talk Media Network is the “Into Tomorrow withgravelinelogo Dave Graveline” program.  In welcoming the almost-20-year-old program to the company’s roster, Talk Media Network CEO Josh Leng says, “The ‘Into Tomorrow’ team travels the globe to deliver the most comprehensive technology discussion available on radio, each and every week.  Talk Media mcpheemicheleNetwork is proud to offer radio stations this valuable program via satellite, for easy automation and scheduling.”…..Journalist and talk show host Michele McPhee – formerly with Entercom’s WRKO, Boston – is the new afternoon drive personality at WMEX, Boston, the daypart held briefly by Howie Carr before WRKO again became his syndicated program’s Boston affiliate.

2016 Presidential Prospects, ‘Is FOX News Bad for GOP?’ Flap, Hillary’s Role in Benghazi, Clintons Finances Scrutiny, ISIS Successes in Iraq and Syria, Amnesty Order Loses Round in Court, Obama Accuses Russia of Aggression, FIFA Scandal, Deadly Texas and OK Floods, and NBA/NHL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/26).  The activities of the potential candidates for president in 2016; reaction to historian Bruce Bartlett’s contention that FOX News is “self-brainwashing” conservative voters; more debate over Hillary Clinton’s role in the deadly Benghazi attack; ongoing scrutiny of the Clintons’ financial dealings and income reporting; the success of ISIS in Iraq and Syria and questions about America’s Iraq policy; President Obama’s amnesty order loses round at the Appeals Court level; Obama accuses Russia of military aggression; a report of widespread corruption at FIFA – soccer’s governing body; the deadly flooding in Texas and Oklahoma; and the NBA and NHL playoff action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Monday, June 23, 2014

| June 23, 2014

wind logoWIND, Chicago’s Joe Walsh Returns to Air After Truncated Show Involving Racial Slurs.  To be clear, former congressman and current WIND, Chicago 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm talk personality Joe Walsh did not use the ‘N-word’ or any other words referring to actual people.  On his Thursday show is used the Washington Redskins controversy as a jumping off point for an academic conversation about words, their meaning and how people perceive them.  But in using those words, management pulled him off the air during a commercial break and he did not return.  Walsh met with management onwalshjoe Friday and was apprised of the company’s policy about such language.  The following statement issued Friday afternoon from Salem Communications-owned WIND “AM 560 The Answer” general manager Jeff Reisman explains that policy: “Yesterday, AM 560 The Answer’s Joe Walsh conducted a segment of his show regarding the recent controversy about the name of the Washington Redskins.  During the segment Joe intended to cite several common racial slurs as examples.  He did not in any way use them in a defamatory or derogatory manner, simply as examples. However, AM 560 The Answer did not allow them to go on the air.  AM 560 The Answer has a policy of not using certain words on the air that are highly inflammatory and offensive even in the context of a discussion of why those words are offensive.  We will continue that policy.  Joe Walsh will be back on air tonight.”

baldwinmcculloughBig Little Screen Add for ‘McCullough/Baldwin *LIVE*’.  The XtreMEDIA-produced weekend talk show “McCullough/Baldwin *LIVE*,” featuring Kevin McCullough and Stephen Baldwin announces the addition of a new television affiliate for the video stream of the show.  Beginning July 1, the program will be seen on KFLA-TV, Los Angeles.  XtreMEDIA says the program will be available in the 14 million TV/cable households that get the channel.  Kevin McCullough comments, “Being live on television in ‘prime time’ always ratchets up response and numbers.  And on a signal like KFLA in SoCal — which stretches literally from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara, Huntington Beach all the way to Bakersfield, blows us away.”  He adds that in total through the partnership with BizTV, the weekend broadcast will reach approximately 40 million TV/cable households in some 20 markets.  He says of the radio version of the show that “in most recent PPM trends the Saturday night broadcast accounted for more than half the radio station’s Saturday total cume on its flagship market NYC, and two other markets.”

parisjimGenesis Communications Network Debuts “Jim Paris Live.”  The weekly, two-hour program airs Sundays starting at 9:00 pm (ET).  Palm Coast, Florida-based Jim Paris has recently been broadcasting over the internet and the ChristianMoney.com editor comments that he has “wanted to get back to terrestrial radio.  Genesis Communications was my first choice and it was a natural fit.  I already listen to several programs on the network and feel that my voice will be a complement to their already-fantastic lineup.  I love the niche that GCN fills, and I am excited to add my name to their roster.”  Paris formerly hosted programs on the Sun Radio Network and USA Radio Network.  In the late-1980s, he was a substitute host for financial advisor Charles J. Givens’ syndicated radio show.

learfieldsports logoLicensing Resource Group Liquidated into Learfield Sports.  Although terms of the transaction were not disclosed, Plano, Texas-headquartered Learfield Sports obtains Licensing Resource Group (LRG).  Learfield president and chief executive officer Greg Brown states, “The LRG team has done a terrific job serving its collegiate partners – we are thrilled to have them join the Learfield family.  We are also excited to now offer a broader collection of services to our collegiate partners.”  According to LRG president and CEO Lewis Hardy, “We have a great team of people and have worked hard over the years to build valuable relationships in the college marketplace.  Learfield will help us grow our capabilities in the coming years.  Learfield has a stellar reputation.  We are excited about this new chapter of growth for LRG.”  Hardy will continue to manage LRG day-to-day; he will report to Learfield Sports chief operating officer Marc Jenkins.  LRG primarily provides schools with licensing services, including trademark and brand management.  The company also provides schools and vendors with advice and consulting services.  Learfield Sports manages exclusive multimedia rights – including radio broadcast rights – to approximately 100 collegiate properties.  Learfield says it does not anticipate making any employee changes related to this acquisition.

gillemdennyAMVETS Joins Forces with ”Frontlines of Freedom.”  Denny Gillem-hosted military/veterans-geared talk program “Frontlines of Freedom” enters a long-term partnership with proactive veterans’ service organization AMVETS.  Gillem remarks that AMVETS is, “the most inclusive veterans organization in our country – they truly care about our veterans. AMVETS and its members are proactively engaging in local and national events, and initiatives to improve the provisioning of health care for veterans; preservation of earned benefits; recognition of service; encouraging Americanism; and positively representing veterans to our nation as a whole.”  The program’s co-creator and executive producer Josh Leng comments that “Frontlines of Freedom” listeners are “already benefiting from this partnership through the additional information and ideas on important veterans issues and the experts it has brought to the program.  In just over a year, we have welcomed 46 new affiliates.  This past week, we reached the 60-affiliate station mark.  Enthusiasm for ‘Frontlines of Freedom’ by station owners, general managers, and program directors has really started to snowball.”  The partnership will incorporate information-sharing on veterans’ issues and legislation, shared access to voices on military and veteran support, and action-based opportunities for veterans.

Odds & Sods.  Now heading up the sales efforts of Genesis Communications’ three-station cluster Florida cluster of WAMT, Orlando “AM 1190 News,” sports talk WHOO, Kissimmee “AM 1080 The Team,” and WIXC, Titusville “AM 1060 News” is Scott Schwartz whom the company names general sales manager.   Schwartz will also oversee sales for the company’s web publications…..Sonoma Media Group adds an FM translator – K276DT, Santa Rosa – to the signal of news/talk KSRO, Santa Rosa.  The new signal is at 103.5 FM.

Friday, November 15, 2013

| November 15, 2013

rhodesrandiPremiere Reverses Course; Keeps Randi Rhodes on Syndication Menu. There are no reports indicating just what happened between Randi Rhodes and syndicator Premiere Networks but the latter is confirming the widely reported news that Rhodes will continue to be syndicated by Premiere, at least through 2014.  Premiere SVP of affiliate relationspremierenetworks logo Peter Tripi emailed affiliates, “In a happy turn of events, we are pleased to announce that Premiere Networks will continue to produce and distribute the Randi Rhodes show.  In an industry of constant change, it’s a pleasure to provide good news about a talk talent we think so highly of.  We apologize for any inconvenience the previous announcement caused, but look forward to a very successful 2014 with the Randi Rhodes show.”  Several weeks ago, Rhodes began telling her audience she was foreseeing the end of her program and later Premiere notified affiliates the relationship would be ending.

kabclogoKABC and KLOS Could Fetch Roughly $90 Million. Before you start feverishly looking for loose change behind sofa cushions and envision putting together a consortium, that is the estimated price for (just) the real estate of the Cumulus-owned talk and rock combo.  For decades, KABC and KLOS have operated from a 45,000-square-foot broadcast facility that sits on a 10-acre Los Angeles site at La Cienega and Jeffersonkloslogo Boulevard.  It is close to a stop on the Expo Line rail route connecting downtown LA and Culver City.  In an article in yesterday’s (11/14) Los Angeles Times, Roger Vincent notes that, “The area is considered ripe for mixed-use development that might include apartments, offices and stores.  Real estate experts familiar with transit-oriented development say the Baldwin Hills site could command $200 a square foot, or more than $90 million,” although Cumulus reportedly has not officially set a price for the KABC-KLOS property.  The LA Times piece quotes an unnamed Cumulus spokesperson who indicates company officials feel the Los Angeles property is a “greatly underutilized asset.” Cumulus has decided to sell it “to free up cash to redeploy in other areas of the business.”  One option under consideration would be to have KABC and KLOS remain as tenants at the location following the sale.

nielsen logoNielsen Trims Payroll by as Many as 500 Positions.  The statement from Nielsen is vague company-speak – “As part of the integration of Nielsen Audio, Nielsen is implementing changes across the company to enhance growth and to align our resources to meet and exceed client needs. These changes will improve productivity and innovation for the benefit of our organization, clients and shareholders.”  However, unsubstantiated reports swirling through the industry are that as many as 500 former Arbitron staffers are being let go as Nielsen brings the radio ratings division fully into the parent company.  The move is not surprising – or shouldn’t be – to anyone who’s been in this business for a while.  Nielsen reported to shareholders that it would be able to realize $20 million in “synergies” and that money has to come from somewhere.  In late September, when TALKERS wrote that staffers at Arbitron are wondering how many jobs will be cut as a result of the acquisition, Nielsen was quick to issue a statement saying the company had, “no plans to reduce headcount at this time,” which we reported on October 2.  TALKERS sees the dismantling of the Arbitron brand and all that it stood for in this clandestine manner as a red flag that should not go by without at least comment.  Those who recall the sale of the iconic trade publication Radio & Records to Nielsen in 2006 will remember the company making similar statements about its intentions to use its formidable resources to grow the magazine and increase its services to the radio industry.  However, in 2009, Nielsen shut the publication down.  In a recent speech at the NAB Radio Show in Orlando, TALKERS and RadioInfo publisher Michael Harrison stated that for radio to thrive, let alone survive, in his new digital era — it must celebrate and protect its “radio-ness,” and avoid being assimilated into the multi-media soup of the 21st century at the expense of its unique industry and cultural identity.  We hope that the powers-that-be at Nielsen show more respect for the specialness of radio in the days going forward and that they will be held accountable for significant discrepancies between their words and actions.

ordwayglennGlenn Ordway Lands Weekend Gig at SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio.  Longtime WEEI, Boston sports talk personality Glenn Ordway will begin hosting “The Big Weekend Show with Glenn Ordway” on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio channel this weekend.  Ordway’s show will air Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 11:00 am.  Ordway – who spent the early part of his radio career as a Boston Celtics commentator – was instrumental in the building of Entercom’s WEEI, Boston where he created “The Big Show” afternoon drive program.  His work in sports talk radio in Boston goes back to his days at talker WRKO where he hosted “Sportscall,” beginning in 1981.  He worked at WEEI from 1987 until leaving the station in the spring of this year.

duncanchrisWXOS, St. Louis Renews with Chris Duncan; Announces New Program Schedule.  Hubbard Radio’s WXOS, St. Louis “101 ESPN” announces it has signed a contract renewal with sports talk host – and former St. Louis Cardinals star – Chris Duncan.  The term of the contract was not announced.  Program director Chris “Hoss” Neupert states, “We are excited to have Chris continue with ‘101ESPN,’ he is a tremendously talented guy and a hard worker who prepares in great depth every day to entertain and inform the ‘101ESPN’ audience.”  At the same time, the station announces its new post-morning drive lineup effective 11/25: Kevin Wheeler, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; “The Turn” with Chris Duncan and Anthony Stalter, 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm; and “The Fast Lane” with Randy Karraker and D’Marco Farr (with Brad Thompson joining the show on Monday, January 6th, 2013) from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

fccnewFCC Approves Hiking Foreign Ownership Limit; NAB Approves.  The mood at the Federal Communications Commission was ebullient as all five commissioners signed on to a policy change that would allow for foreign investment in U.S. broadcasting signals.  The new policy would not put a strict limit on the percentage of interest allowed but would only kick in the FCC’s scrutiny if the stake goes above 25%.  The days of concern over foreign control over content on American airwaves are long over and the NAB weighed in on the change, with president and CEO Gordon Smith stating, “NAB applauds the FCC for providing flexibility in commission rules allowing increased foreign investment in broadcast TV and radio stations.  We are especially pleased the FCC recognized that local broadcasters routinely provide ‘local news, Amber Alerts and public safety information’ to serve our communities.  Today’s vote provides broadcasters greater access to capital that will allow local stations to continue our indispensable role as the primary purveyor of news, entertainment and lifeline information to the American people.”

blairderricknowitsthenewsTalk Media Network Brings Weekly Satirical News Program into the Fold.  “Now It’s the News with Derrick Blair” joins the Josh Leng-led Talk Media Network.  The company says in a statement, “While many shows embrace talking points and are overly predictable, Derrick Blair brings a refreshing approach to ‘Now It’s The News,’ in the genre of ‘enlightened entertainment’ that includes ‘The Colbert Report’ found on Comedy Central.”  Blair adds, “In the truest spirit of bipartisanship, ‘Now It’s The News’ will continue to mock the left, the right, the center, and all points in between.”  Josh Leng comments on the one-hour, weekly program, “’Now It’s The News with Derrick Blair’ appeals to core radio listeners who love news and politics, but also to a much wider audience who simply enjoy a good laugh and quality entertainment.  Derrick’s show is 100% original, and serves as a perfect bridge between political and non-political programming, giving listeners a humorous transition. It’s also a great way to laugh off some of the stress that can build up during the week.”  The program has been in syndication since 2010.

cumulus logoCumulus-Townsquare Deal Closes.  Yesterday, Cumulus Media announced that it had completed the sale to Townsquare Media, LLC of 53 radio stations in 12 small and mid-sized markets for approximatelytownsquare logo $238 million in cash, and the swap with Townsquare of 15 radio stations in two small and mid-sized markets in exchange for five radio stations in Fresno, California (together, the “Townsquare Transaction”).  Cumulus reports in an 8-K filing that it intends to use the cash proceeds from the Townsquare Transaction to fund a portion of the purchase price payable to complete its previously announced acquisition of Dial Global, Inc., now known as WestwoodOne.  This acquisition is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2013.

marksidWPHT, Philadelphia Celebrates 57 Years of Sid Mark’s Broadcast Career. The Philadelphia broadcaster is best known these days for his nationally syndicated weekly program “The Sounds of Sinatra.”  Home base – news/talk station WPHT, Philadelphia – is celebrating the career of Sid Mark tonight at a special, sold-out event at Galdo’s in Philadelphia to celebrate his 57th year hosting “The Sounds of Sinatra.”  The evening will feature Bobby Rydell and the sounds of the 17-piece big band City Rhythm Orchestra paying tribute to Sid Mark.  CBS Radio Philadelphia SVP and market manager Marc Rayfield says, “Sid is not only a Philadelphia treasure, but a national treasure as well.  His legendary voice has insured that another legendary voice has remained quite legendary.  We are honored to have him as a member of our team at WPHT.”  Sid Mark launched “The Sounds of Sinatra” in Philadelphia 57 years ago after a caller suggested that Sid spin one hour of Frank Sinatra songs.  That tradition developed into “Friday with Frank,” as well as “Sunday with Sinatra” which presently airs on 1210 WPHT on Sundays from 9:00 to 1:00 pm.  “The Sounds of Sinatra,” now heard on more than 100 radio stations from coast to coast, is the only radio program of its kind to have been personally authorized by Frank Sinatra.

ramseygreenvilleDave Ramsey Fills the House in Greenville.  Nationally syndicated talk superstar Dave Ramsey is pictured here on stage in Greenville, South Carolina last night presenting his new “Legacy Journey LIVE!” The program discusses how to win with money, strengthen marriages and lead your children with confidence.  His daughter, Rachel Cruze, joined Ramsey on stage. Ramsey combined forces with local affiliate WORD, to promote the event.  Entercom Upstate director of news and programming Bob McLain states, “As a heritage partner with Dave Ramsey it’s a pleasure to be able to welcome Dave and Rachel Cruze to the Upstate…The opportunity for ‘WORD 106.3’ to partner with Dave in this venture, as we do on the air, just helps to cement the personal relationship our listeners have with Dave and the station.”  Also, on Wednesday, Ramsey hosted his “EntreLeadership 1 Day Event” in Birmingham, Alabama with speaker Chris Hogan addressing how to run a business using the same common sense principles that Ramsey practices in his own company of more than 350 employees.

TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup.  Envision Radio Networks’ “America Weekend” featuring hosts Paul Harris, Turi Ryder and Rob Carson, is added to the program schedule at Blount Broadcasting Corporation’s talk WKVL and rock WNFZ in Knoxville, Tennessee…..Genesis Communications Networks-syndicated Dr. Daliah Wachs joins the program lineup at WZGM, Asheville, North Carolina.

ObamaCare Rollout Criticism Tops Talkers TenTM.  The ongoing criticism of the rollout of the Affordable Care Act was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio for the fourth straight week.  At #2 this week was the GOP strategy for the 2014 and 2016 elections tied with analysis of the November 5 elections.  Following at #3 was President Obama’s declining poll numbers tied with the new Benghazi allegations and at #4 was the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio.  It is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS and is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  View this week’s chart here.