Tag: "JVC Media"
Monday, September 9, 2019
NewsTalk 99.7 & AM 630 WPRO to Present Opioid Crisis Special. This Friday (9/13), Cumulus Media’s “NewsTalk 99.7 FM & AM 630 WPRO” in Providence is presenting a day of broadcasts “aimed at confronting the opioid crisis and how it affects Rhode Island and Southern New England.” Titled, “Enough: WPRO’s Opioid Awareness Day,” all of the
station’s programs – “The News with Gene Valicenti,” “The Tara Granahan Show,” “The Matt Allen Show,” “The Dan Yorke Show,” and “The Gresh Show” will “bring listeners personal stories of addiction and recovery, information about city and state programs designed to help, and the physical and physiological effects of opioids which lead to the addiction.” Cumulus Media Providence market manager Holly Paras says, “As the opioid crisis continues to threaten the state of Rhode Island, WPRO understands that we have a responsibility to use our voice and our platform to discuss this terrifying epidemic. I am proud to be part of a station that understands this responsibility and is bringing this difficult but critically important conversation to the community.” Guests will include former Boston Celtics player Chris Herren, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and First Gentleman Andy Moffit, mental health advocate and former congressman Patrick Kennedy, recovery advocate John Tassoni, leaders from industries affected by the crisis, first responders, and more.
Monday Memo: Happy Birthday, Walkman. Consultant Holland Cooke’s Monday Memo recognized the 40th birthday of the Sony Walkman. He writes that, yes, “cassettes seem ancient now, but Sony saw the future 40 years ago. And today, smart broadcasters are cashing-in.” The Walkman allowed personal, isolated listening (via headphones) to go mobile and that paved the way for today’s podcasts. Read more here.
FOX News Radio Signs with Triton Digital for Audio Advertising Technology. This deal between FOX News Radio and Triton Digital allows FNR to the global technology
and service leader in the digital audio and podcast industry. The new deal will “leverage the comprehensive suite of audio advertising serving technology to allow insertion of targeted ads into FNR’s original podcasts. The network will also utilize Triton’s podcast management system for enhanced distribution across multiple podcast listening platforms including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, TuneIn and Stitcher. Additionally, the partnership will enable listeners access to daily FNR programs, such as “The Brian Kilmeade Show” and “The Guy Benson Show,” as ad supported full-length podcasts.
Trump Cancels Afghanistan Peace Talks, 2020 Presidential Race, Hurricane Dorian/Bahamas Relief, U.S.-China Relations/Hong Kong Protests, Dems Trump Impeachment Strategy, and NFL Opening Weekend Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The news that President Trump canceled previously secret negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghanistan government; the Democrats and Republicans challenging President Trump in 2020; Hurricane Dorian’s weekend track and the devastation left in the Bahamas; U.S.-China trade relations and the continuing Democracy protests in Hong Kong; the Democrats’ strategy for building an impeachment case against President Trump; and the NFL’s opening weekend were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
WTAM, Cleveland Presenting Geraldo Rivera-Hosted 2020 Election Event. Tomorrow (9/10), iHeartMedia’s Cleveland news/talk outlet “Newsradio WTAM 1100” is presenting,
“Ohio: The Heart of 2020,” a live event hosted by FOX News correspondent-at-large and WTAM air personality Geraldo Rivera. The program will take place from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm and will feature a panel including: Shontel 
Brown, chairperson for the Democratic Party of Cuyahoga County; Rob Frost, chairman for the Republican Party of Cuyahoga County; Ohio Lieutenant Governor (and former Ohio Secretary of State) Jon Husted; Bill Wills, co-host of “Cleveland’s Morning News with Wills and Snyder” on WTAM 1100; and Tom Beres, former WKYC-TV, Cleveland senior political correspondent. Listeners are being given chances to attend the invite-only event by listening to the daily, 9:00 am to 10:00 am “Geraldo in Cleveland” program.
Joey Brooks Named SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Connecticut. Programming pro Joey Brooks moves from his position at iHeartMedia’s Miami cluster – PD for hot AC WMIA and APD for CHR WHYI – to Connecticut to serve as senior vice president of
programming for the Hartford and New Haven markets that include news/talk stations WPOP-AM and WELI-AM and sports talkers WUCS-FM and WAVZ-AM. iHeartMedia Hartford region president Steve Honeycomb says, “Joey’s experience of leadership, drive, and passion for radio will be an amazing addition to our iHeartMedia teams in Hartford and New Haven. There is no doubt that Joey will take our nine market-leading radio brands to the next level as we continue to provide the best entertainment for our listeners.”
Former MLB Player and WXOS-FM, St. Louis Host Chris Duncan Passes at 38. He left Hubbard Radio’s WXOS-FM, St. Louis “101 ESPN” back in January to focus on his
health. On Friday (9/6), Chris Duncan died after a seven-year battle with brain cancer. Duncan came up into the big leagues in 2005 and was an integral part of the St. Louis Cardinals’ 2006 World Series Championship. After leaving baseball, he began his career as a sports talk radio host on “101 ESPN.” He was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 and underwent treatment. He made progress and returned to the air as a co-host of the midday show, “The Turn,” until leaving earlier this year.
TALKERS News Notes. Today (9/9), the new “Florida Man Radio” talk format debuts on
JVC Media’s WDYZ-AM, Altamonte Springs and W288CJ, Oviedo in the Orlando market. The station features Bubba the Love Sponge in morning drive, followed by Scott Ledger in middays and Shannon Burke in afternoon drive…..When the Texas Radio Hall of Fame inducts its class of 2019, George Gimarc, producer of Envision Networks’ nationally syndicated 24/7 comedy format, “Today’s Comedy,” will among its members. The induction celebration takes place on November 2 at the Texas Museum of Broadcasting and Communications. Gimarc is recognized for his work at KZEW-FM, KDGE-FM, and KRQX-FM in Dallas. Gimarc is credited with being instrumental in the birth of the classic rock and alternative formats…..Art Bell fans are being treated to 
classic “Coast to Coast AM” programs as Premiere Networks makes the Art Bell Vault – content from the years Art Bell hosted “Coast to Coast AM” – available online to Coast Insider subscribers. Premiere says, “As part of our initial 20 shows launching the Art Bell Vault, we’re showcasing some truly iconic episodes like the 1995 appearance of aspiring time traveler ‘Mad Man Marcum,’ who detailed his attempts to build a machine to journey into the past. Coast Insiders can also hear Mel Waters discuss a bottomless hole said to be in his backyard and a man named ‘Bugs,’ who purportedly shot a Bigfoot. In addition to that, subscribers can hear Art Bell’s first conversations with Father Malachi Martin as well as Dr. Michio Kaku.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. KOAS-FM, Las Vegas “Jammin’ 105.7” afternoon drive personality Paco Lopez is promoted to program director of the Beasley Media Group hip hop station. He’ll continue his on-air role with the station. Beasley Las Vegas VP and market manager
Peter Burton says, “We are lucky to have such a seasoned and successful professional from the format on our team. Having been on the air and programmed in format successfully in markets like Washington DC, New York, Houston, and Miami, we consider ourselves lucky to have Paco on staff here in Las Vegas. He’s also an incredibly positive influence in the building. We are looking forward to him having great success with us here in Las Vegas.”…..Phoenix CHR KZZP “104.7 KISS FM” adds the YEA Networks-syndicated “Tino Cochino Radio” program to its schedule for the 8:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart. Station PD Mat Mitchell says, “My dream to have one of the best top 40 on-air personalities and influencers in the country join our program lineup has come true. Tino, Raquel and Nicasio are among the most driven people I’ve met in the industry and I cannot wait for their new night show to start in Phoenix while they continue to expand their syndication profile.”…..Pictured below at the WJMN, Boston “Summer Jam” event yesterday (9/8) is rapper Megan Thee Stallion (center) with WJMN personalities. Megan sat down for an interview with morning host Ashlee in which she said she believes Nikki Minaj will record again, contrary to her recent surprise retirement announcement. Seen with Megan are (from l-r): DJ Pup Dawg, Ashlee, Santi, and DJ 4eign. Photo: Bethany Anna
August 2019 PPM Data. August 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s August 2019 survey period covered July 18 – August 14. 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.
Austin
Spoken-Word Formats – News/talk KLBJ-AM is a collective +2.0 via three straight upticks (2.8 – 3.7 – 4.2 – 4.8, 6+) and leaps from ninth to fifth with its best 6+-performance (4.8) in more than six years (5.0, June 2013).
Up three-tenths in both July and August (1.3 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn” progresses from #18 to #16. Even though iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KVET-AM nearly doubles (+.3) its 6+ AQH-share in three straight up or flat moves (.4 – .5 – .5 – .7, 6+), “1300 AM The Zone” backslides from #24 to #25.
Notwithstanding a strong August +1.2 to 7.9, its highest 6+-performance since 9.5 in March, University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk KUT remains in the runner-up slot. KUT’s eight shifts this calendar year include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); +.7 (March); -2.0 (April); -.1 (May); -1.6 (June); +.9 (July); and +1.2 (August). June’s 5.8 was its lowest 6+-showing since April 2017 (5.8, as well).
Austin Music Formats – Piling on a +1.1 to July’s increase of three-tenths (2.8 – 3.1 – 4.2, 6+), CRISTA Media contemporary Christian KFMK “Spirit 105.9” zooms into the top ten (#13 to #9), reaching the four-share level (4.2, 6+) for the first time since February’s 4.6. In five successive reports without a loss, alternative KROX “101-X” nets a +1.3 (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #10) with its best 6+-showing (3.9) since September 2018’s 4.0. A collective -2.7 in four straight decreases (6.7 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+), directly following March’s +1.2, regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” ends the slide with a +.3 to 4.3 (tenth to eighth, 6+). More than doubling (+.8) its 6+ AQH-share in July/August (.7 – .8 – 1.5, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KLJA “Amor 107.7” cracks the top twenty with its best 6+-stat (1.5, #20, 6+) since 1.6 in January. Despite being a combined -.6 in July/August (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.7, 6+), adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” is #1 the fifth month in a row. June’s 9.3 was its highest 6+ share since “Holiday” 2018 (also 9.3). Prior to this past April, the last time “Bob” occupied the top spot was December 2018 (8.3, 6+). Dropping from fourth to seventh, Entercom hot AC KAMX “Mix 94.7” is -1.8 in July/August (6.4 – 5.9 – 4.6, 6+), directly following May/June’s combined +1.1 (5.3 – 5.8 – 6.4, 6+). In the market’s three-way country contest, iHeartMedia-owned KASE improves by one-tenth (4.8 – 4.9, 6+) and one ranker (fifth to fourth). “Austin’s #1 For New Country” was a combined -1.0 in June/July (5.8 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+), immediately after +1.5 in three straight bumps (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 5.8, 6+). It plummeted by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018; improved by +1.2 in January; and was -.6 in February. The other two country combatants, however, aren’t as lucky as KASE in August: Genuine Austin Radio’s KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” surrenders eight-tenths (1.8, #16 to #17, 6+), while KASE’s sibling, KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin Texas Original,” erodes by -1.2 and fades from the top ten (#7 to #13). For KOKE-FM, it ends four straight sweeps without a loss that netted six-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.6, 6+); July’s 2.6 was its best 6+-stat since February’s 2.7. Meanwhile, KVET-FM is an overall -2.5 in three successive downturns (5.8 – 5.2 – 4.5 – 3.3, 6+), following May’s +.9. “The Austin Texas Original” was +1.2 in January (5.0 – 6.2, 6+) and hadn’t been below a four-share (6+) in more than six years (3.1, February 2013). Adult contemporary KGSR is an overall +.8 in three consecutive positive or neutral trends (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+) and progresses from #15 to #14. Its current 2.7 represents the best 6+-showing for “97.1 Austin City Limits Radio” ever since it flipped from triple A to AC this past March (2019). Even though Entercom’s similarly-formatted KKMJ is a combined -1.4 in July/August, “Majic 95.5 – Better Music for a Better Workday” remains in third-place. Completely erasing July’s +.6 (4.4 – 3.8, -.6, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KPEZ “102.3 The Beat” departs the top ten (#8 to #11). July’s 4.4 was its highest 6+-share in more than two years (4.7, June 2017). Off six-tenths as well in August is University of Texas at Austin triple A KUTX “98.9 The Austin Music Experience” (2.2 – 1.6, #16 to #19, 6+).
Raleigh
Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -1.8 in four straight downturns (6.5 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK “106.1 Stay Connected” ends the slide with a half-share increase to 5.2 (ninth to eighth, 6+). Curtis
Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” records a 6+ AQH share between 1.0 – 1.9 the 21st time in a row but is off one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (1.9 – 1.8 – 1.7, flat at #16, 6+).
In five straight down or flat moves, Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC has lost three tenths (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+); “99.9 The Fan” finishes at #15 the fifth time in a row. Co-owned/similarly-formatted model of consistency WDNC “620 The Ticket” has an August 2018 through August 2019 topline of: .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .1 (#24 to #26, 6+).
Up eight-tenths in June but down three-tenths in July, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” posts an August +1.0 (7.5 – 8.5, 6+), marching from second to first. WUNC, which was +1.0 in January and -.6 in February, has its best 6+-stat (8.5) in exactly one year (8.8, August 2018).
Raleigh Music Formats – As a result of seven consecutive positive or neutral moves, Radio One gospel WNNL “The Light 103.9 – The Triangle’s Inspiration Station” is a collective +1.5 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 5.2, 6+) and jumps from tenth to eighth. This is its strongest 6+-stat since October 2018 (5.2, as well). Following 12 consecutive survey periods at #1, urban AC cluster-mate WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” segues to #2. Ironically, “Foxy” backslides after picking up two-tenths to 8.4 (6+), thus snapping six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in an overall -2.8 (11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.2, 6+). Six of its recent (6+) fluctuations include: +.9 (November 2018); -1.5 (December); +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.1 (February); and -.6 (July). January’s +1.1 took WFXC to 11.0, its highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era. When Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL gained two-tenths in July, it suspended four successive down or flat sweeps that resulted in a -2.1 (8.6 – 7.7 – 7.7 – 7.5 – 6.5, 6+). “Mix 101.5 – The Variety That Makes You Feel Good,” however, forfeits six-tenths in August (6.7 – 6.1, 6+) and shifts from third to sixth. This (6.1) is the lowest 6+- showing for WRAL since October 2018’s 5.3. Off one-half share in August, iHeartMedia-owned CHR WDCG “G-105 – Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station” slips from seventh to tenth. “G-105” was a combined -.9 in March/April (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.1, 6+); +1.1 in May/June (5.1 – 5.5 – 6.2, 6+); and is now -1.1 in July/August (6.2 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+). Dropping by one-half share as well are Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WKIX “KIX 102.9 – Carolina’s Greatest Hits” (3.5 – 3.0, flat at #12, 6+) and Educational Information Corporation’s WCPE “89.7 FM The Classical Station” (2.9 – 2.4, #13 to #14, 6+). After being an overall +1.8 in six straight sweeps without a loss (4.8 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 6.0 – 6.6, 6+), Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB “96.1 BBB – Your Life/Your Music” drops two-tenths to 6.4 (6+) but remains in fifth-place. It is a similar scenario for co-owned WPLW “Pulse FM,” which forfeits one-tenth to 4.4 (steady at #11, 6+), thus interrupting three successive up or flat trends which netted a +1.3 (3.2 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.5, 6+). July’s 4.5 was its best 6+-showing in over two years (4.9, June 2017). As a result of eight down or flat Raleigh reports in succession (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.3, 6+), Curtis Media Group-owned regional Mexican WYMY has had its 6+ AQH share sliced by roughly 59% (-1.9); “La Ley 101.1” continues at #17.
Indianapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Eleven of the 13 most recent (6+) fluctuations for Emmis news/talk WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” are: -.7 (September 2018); +1.0 (October); +.7 (November); -.9 (December); -.9 (“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.8 (March); -1.2 (April); +.9 (June); and +.5 in August (6.0 – 6.5, steady at #5, 6+).
Although unchanged at #16, Emmis’ WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” has lost seven-tenths via three straight drops (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+). In six successive sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia’s WNDE dropped eight-tenths (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+), but “Indy’s Sports Station” ends the slump with a +.1 to 1.1 (flat at #18, 6+). Cumulus Media’s WXNT “CBS Sports AM 1430” repeats July’s .1 (#22 to #21, 6+).
Down seven-tenths in June (4.6 – 3.9, 6+), Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI rebounds with a combined +1.4 in July/August (3.9 – 4.9 – 5.3, steady at #8, 6+).
Indianapolis Music Formats – Having regressed by -1.3 in June/July (7.2 – 6.7 – 5.9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” answers with an August increase of one-half share to 6.4 (seventh to sixth, 6+). Prior to July’s 5.9, “Q-95” hadn’t been below a six-share (6+) since March 2017’s 5.8. Improving by one-half share in August 2019 as well is University of Indianapolis-owned jazz-classical WICR (.6 – 1.1, #20 to #18, 6+), which passes the one-share level (1.1, 6+) for the first time since March, when it reached 1.2 (6+). On top the eighth consecutive month, Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5” follows July’s massive +1.4 with a -1.1 (11.1 – 10.0, 6+). July’s 11.1 is the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing April’s 10.2. Among WJJK’s 2019 (6+) shifts are: +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); +1.4 (July); and -1.1 (August). After spending six straight sweeps at #1, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January 2019. Having logged a May – June – July topline of 7.4 – 7.6 – 7.5 (6+), Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” (third to fourth) falters by six-tenths to 6.9, its lowest 6+-stat since 6.1 in “Holiday” 2018. Despite being down one-tenth, Emmis’ similarly-formatted WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank” (7.2 – 7.1, fourth to third, 6+) leapfrogs WFMS. Prior to July’s 7.2, “Hank” last reached the seven-share threshold in May 2018 (7.1); WLHK was a combined +1.1 in June/July (6.1 – 6.2 – 7.2, 6+). The day after the June sweep commenced (5/24), WFMS’ CHR sibling WYRG “Energy 93.9” flipped to rock WNDX. In June and July, “93.9-X” responded by nearly tripling (+2.3) its 6+-stat (1.3 – 2.8 – 3.6, 6+, 6+), jumping from #18 (May) to #16 (June) to #12 (July). In August, however, WNDX relinquishes six-tenths to 3.0 (6+) but repeats at #12.
Milwaukee
Spoken-Word Formats – Slipping from third to fourth, Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers,
Packers) is an overall -2.3 in three straight setbacks (9.4 – 8.7 – 7.6 – 7.1, 6+). This directly follows April/May’s +3.5 (5.9 – 8.8 – 9.4, 6+). Likewise, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130” is a collective -1.1 via three decreases in succession (5.7 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+), vaporizing the six-tenths gained in April/May (5.1 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+).
Five Milwaukee sports talk outlets combine for a 2.2 (August 6+), down from 2.3 (July, 6+) and 2.4 (June, 6+). After tripling its 6+-stat since April (.3 – .6 – .8 – 9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WRNW “The Game” drops two-tenths to .7 (flat at #16, 6+). CHR WRNW “Now” became sports talk “The Game” in late-November (2018). July’s .9 was the best 6+-stat on that frequency since 2.8 in December 2018. While flat at .7 (6+) Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” catches WRNW at #16. July’s +.1 ended three straight winless sweeps in which WKTI lost roughly half (-.7) its 6+ audience (1.3 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .6, 6+). A collective -1.0 in five straight dips (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .6, – .4, 6+), Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” ends the slide with a +.1 to .5 (#21 to #20, 6+). WRNW cluster-mate WOKY “The Big 920” posts a .2 (6+) the eighth time in the last ten sweeps (.2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .2, flat at #22, 6+). After popping on with a .5 (November 2018, 6+), Good Karma Brands’ WAUK disappeared from print in the next seven ratings periods. It returned in June with a .2; dropped one-tenth to .1 (6+) in July; and repeats that .1 in August (#28 to #26, 6+).
By gaining three-tenths to 3.3 (flat at #13, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM halts five straight negative or neutral moves that resulted in a collective -1.8 (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+). After logging five straight negative or neutral moves that led to a loss of one-half share (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 -.8, 6+), Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD regains 60% of that shortfall (1.1, +.3, #17 to #15, 6+).
Milwaukee Music Formats – Answering July’s mammoth -1.6 with an August uptick of six-tenths (5.1 – 5.7, 6+), Entercom hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” jumps from eighth to sixth; July’s 5.1 was its lowest 6+-stat since November 2018’s 4.8. The May through August topline for Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary WLDB “B-93.3” is 5.8 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.8 (seventh to fifth, 6+). Three spikes in succession by iHeartMedia-owned WMIL yield a +2.2 (5.3 – 5.9 – 7.1 – 7.5, 6+) as “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” progresses from fourth to third with its highest 6+-stat since January (7.5, as well). Notwithstanding it surrenders the three-tenths gained in July (9.4 – 9.7 – 9.4, 6+), classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” is #1 the third month in a row. A combined +1.1 in June/July (8.6 – 9.4 – 9.7, 6+), WRIT occupied the lead position five straight sweeps before segueing to #2 in May with its lowest 6+-figure (8.6) since December 2018’s 7.7. Having spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1, “Big FM” shifted to #2 in October 2018. “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Eight of its recent (6+) moves are: -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.8 (March); +.7 (April); -1.5 (May); and +.8 (June). Despite posting five reports in a row without a loss for a +1.1 (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+), co-owned urban contemporary WKKV “V-100.7 Jams” backslides from a fifth-place tie to seventh. Major (6+) ups/downs continue for Saga Communications’ WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock,” which was -1.1 in four straight negative or flat moves (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 7.3 – 7.0, 6+); a whopping +1.4 in July; but -.6 in August (8.4 – 7.8, unchanged at #2, 6+).
Nashville
Spoken-Word Formats – Up one-half share via three straight positive or neutral trends (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.6, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” advances from #12 to #11. Returning the four-tenths it added in July (1.4 – 1.8 – 1.4, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” remains at #17. July’s 1.8 was its best 6+-stat in nearly four years (2.0, October 2015).
Somewhat mirroring its news/talk cluster-mate WWTN (see above), Cumulus Media-owned sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) gains a combined one-half share in back-to-back sweeps (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.2, #14 to #12, 6+). Prior to June, the last time WGFX fell below a three-share (6+) was July 2017 (2.7, as well). In four straight down or flat moves Cromwell Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” has lost nearly two-thirds (-1.2) of its 6+ AQH-share (1.9 – 1.1 – .8 – .8 – .7, #21 to #22, 6+).
Erasing July’s one-half share loss (5.6 – 5.1, 6+) with an August +1.1 to 6.2 (6+), Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” climbs from seventh to fourth. The news/talk/classical hybrid outlet was a combined +1.2 in May/June (4.4 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+).
Nashville Music Formats – In three consecutive negative or neutral sweeps, WCJK “96.3 Jack-FM Playing What We Want” was a collective -1.6 (8.4 – 7.6 – 7.6 – 6.8, 6+); however, the Midwest Communications-owned adult hits outlet roars back with an August +1.2 to 8.0 (third to second, 6+). CHR cluster-mate WNFN “106.7 Nashville’s New Hit Music” (#16 to #15) has logged a 1.9 (6+) in three of the last four sweeps (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.9, 6+) but erupts in August with a +1.0 to 2.9, its best 6+-showing in nearly two years (3.0, October 2017). Despite gaining two-tenths, its format rival – iHeartMedia’s WRVW “107.5 The River” – backslides from sixth to seventh. “The River” has a March through August topline of: 5.3 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.5. Not only is Cumulus Media urban AC WQQK an overall +1.3 in four upticks in succession (4.2 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 5.5, ninth to seventh, 6+), “92-Q” reaches a five-share for the first time since “Holiday” 2018 (5.5, as well). An overall +1.6 in three successive upticks (8.2 – 9.2 – 9.6 – 9.8, 6+), Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” relinquishes three-tenths to 9.5 (6+) but is #1 the fourth month in a row. Seven recent (6+) WJXA fluctuations include: +1.9 (December 2018); +3.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.5 (January 2019); -1.3 (February); -.5 (March); -.6 (April); and +1.0 (May). WJXA’s “Holiday” 2018’s 14.1 is the highest 6+-share for any Nashville outlet since its 14.4 in “Holiday” 2017. Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFFH “The Fish” is -1.3 in July/August (4.5 – 4.4 – 3.2, #11 to #12, 6+), directly following a collective +1.0 through four straight increases (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+). In three reports in succession without an increase, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUBT “101.1 The Beat” is -1.2 (6.8 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 5.6, flat at #5, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-share (5.6) since December 2016 (4.9). An impressive +2.7 in seven consecutive sweeps without a loss (3.5 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 6.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country” forfeits six-tenths to 5.6 (fourth to fifth, 6+). It reached the six-share level (July 2019, 6.2, 6+) for the first time since April 2017’s 6.1. A combined -1.6 in three straight losses (6.3 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WKDF pulls the plug with a +.2 to 4.9 (tenth to ninth, 6+). In advance of the aforementioned streak, “103.3 Nash FM” was a collective +2.2 in five straight gains (4.1 – 4.2 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-formatted WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon,” which notched a 5.0 (6+) five times in the last six sweeps (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), sputters by three-tenths to 4.7 (eighth to tenth, 6+).
Providence
Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of three-tenths to 3.4 (flat at #7, 6+) by Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” halts three
consecutive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+). Despite being down or flat the sixth time in a row for a more than 50% reduction (-1.2) in its 6+-AQH share (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.3 – .9 – .9, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WHJJ “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” moves from #17 to a three-way tie at #16. Off four-tenths as a result of three successive declines (.7 – .5 – .4 – .3, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” repeats at #20.
Bouncing back from July’s half-share loss to 3.1, its lowest 6+-stat since March 2018’s 2.8, Entercom sports talker WVEI notches a +.3 (3.4, flat at #7, 6+).
In four consecutive ratings periods without an increase, iHeartMedia Boston hybrid news – talk WBZ-AM has lost four-tenths (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .9, 6+); “News Radio 1030” drops from #16 to the three-way scrum at #17.
After gaining six-tenths in July (1.6 – 2.2, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH returns one-tenth to 2.1 (6+) and is unchanged at #9. In four successive sweeps without an increase (2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.4, 6+), The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH has lost a total of six-tenths and repeats at #11.
Providence Music Formats – Over and above being a collective +1.7 in three straight spikes (7.6 – 8.5 – 8.6 – 9.3, 6+), Hall Broadcasting country WCTK leaps from third to first. This (9.3) is the highest 6+-share for “Cat Country 98.1” in just over one year (10.1, July 2018) and first time at #1 since that same (July 2018) sweep. It succeeds iHeartMedia-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll,” which had been #1 the past three months. A combined -1.6 in July/August (10.2 – 9.8 – 8.6, 6+), WHJY segues to #2. An April loss of nine-tenths forced WHJY from the top spot after three straight months there. The decline halted four consecutive positive or flat moves that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. A loss of six-tenths (9.1 – 8.5, second to third, 6+) sends Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” to its lowest 6+-share (8.5) in almost four years (7.2, October 2015). Seven recent (6+) shifts for iHeartMedia-owned hot AC WSNE include: -.9 (November 2018); -1.0 (Holiday” 2018); +.5 (March); +.5 (May); -.7 (June); +1.4 (July); and -.5 in August (5.7 – 5.2, flat at #6, 6+). July’s 5.7 was its best 6+-performance in just over two years (June 2017, 5.7, as well). Prior to June’s loss of seven-tenths, “Coast 93.3” was a collective +1.2 in three consecutive improvements (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). In the CHR arena, Townsquare Media CHR WFHN, which had its 6+-stat shrink by two-thirds (-2.8) via six down or flat reports in succession (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.4, 6+), ends the slide with a +.4 to 1.8. Moreover, “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#14 to #10). Immediately in advance of the just-mentioned streak, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-stat as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WPRO-FM “Today’s Hit Music 92 PRO-FM” is down seven-tenths in three straight negative or neutral trends (7.4 – 7.4 – 6.8 – 6.7, 6+) and continues in fifth-place. Up a collective half-share as a result of five successive up or flat Providence moves (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), iHeartMedia Boston CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” falters by two-tenths to 1.4 (6+) and shifts from #12 to a three-way tie at #11. Also part of that three-way logjam at #11 is Cumulus Media rhythmic CHR WWKX “Hot 106,” which is -1.0 in three losses in succession (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.8 – 1.4, 6+). Disappearing from print in July and August are Red Wolf Broadcasting Spanish tropical WKKB “Latina 100.3,” which posted a 1.2 in June (#16, 6+) and classic hits-oldies sibling WSKP “Good Times … Great Oldies” (.8, #19, June 2019, 6+).
Norfolk
Spoken-Word Formats – After a hiatus of just over three years (July 2016), Max Broadcast Group Holdings outlets are listed again.
The only entry appearing in print under the spoken-word umbrella in this Virginia market is Max Broadcast Group sports talk WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1,” which has a July/August topline of 1.2 – 1.4 (#16 to #14, 6+); its internet stream, which notched a .1 in July (#19, 6+), disappears in August.
Norfolk Music Formats – Only one station in the 48 PPM-markets registers a (6+) July 2019 – August 2019 increase of at least two full-shares and that honor goes to … WNOR “FM 99 Rocks” (+2.1). In fact, the Saga Communications-owned facility hasn’t had a decrease the last five survey periods and is a stunning +3.0 in that timeframe (5.9 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 8.9, fourth to second, 6+). Moreover, “FM 99 Rocks” reaches the eight-share level (8.9, 6+) for the first time since May 2018’s 8.3 (6+). WNOR is now just two-tenths from the top spot. While Entercom urban AC WVKL is #1 the eighth consecutive month, “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” is a combined -2.3 in July/August (11.4 – 10.0 – 9.1, 6+). Prior to its present 9.1 (August 2019, 6+), WVKL last failed to log double-digits (6+) in January 2014 (9.8). WVKL was a combined -2.4 in March/April (12.9 – 11.6 – 10.5, 6+) and then added a +1.0 in May to 11.5 (6+). “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been the market pacesetter 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. In the market’s tight adult contemporary battle, Max Broadcast Group’s WVBW “92.9 The Wave” logs an increase of eight-tenths (3.4 – 4.2, ninth to sixth, 6+), while Entercom’s WWDE “101.3 2WD” is up a combined six-tenths in July/August (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.0, sixth to fifth, 6+). Repeating at #11, iHeartMedia alternative WNOH “Alt 105.3” has nearly tripled (+1.4) its 6+-stat in eight straight survey periods without a loss (.8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+). Eroding by -1.2 (5.0 – 3.8, 6+), Entercom’s WNVZ “Z-104 Norfolk Rhythmic Music” drops from fifth to eighth with its lowest 6+-stat (3.8) since “Holiday” 2018’s 3.6. Although off seven-tenths (3.2 – 2.5, 6+), Max Broadcast Group-owned WVHT “Hot 100” repeats at #10. An overall +1.2 in three consecutive up or flat trends (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.2, 4.0, 6+), Entercom hot AC WPTE “94.9 The Point” falters by six-tenths to 4.0 (eighth to ninth, 6+). July’s 4.0 was the best 6+-showing for “The Point” since September 2017’s 4.4. Down by six-tenths as well in August is Max Broadcast Group’s country WGH-FM “97.3 The Eagle” (4.7 – 4.1, flat at #7, 6+).
Jacksonville
Spoken-Word Formats – Doubling July’s +.5 with an August +1.0 (7.5 – 8.0 – 9.0, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM “104.5
Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” repeats at #1. July’s increase halted five consecutive down or flat sweeps that accounted for a collective -2.9 (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.6 – 7.5, 6+). Tied for the top spot in May, WOKV-FM had sole possession of first-place in January, February, and April.
By adding three-tenths (.5, #20 to #19, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” applies the brakes to nine consecutive sweeps without an increase that accounted for a net loss of 75% (-.6) of its 6+-stat (.8 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .3 – .3 -.3 – .2 – .2, 6+).
Down or flat the fifth consecutive time for a net loss of nine-tenths (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+), public news/talk WJCT slips from #12 to #13. Immediately prior to April, “Your Community – Your World” was a cumulative +1.5 in five increases in a row (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+).
Jacksonville Music Formats – Separated by nine-tenths of a share in July, the market’s two major adult contemporary outlets are now within six-tenths of each other. More to the point, in five consecutive upticks, Cox Media Group’s WEZI “Easy 102.9” is an overall +2.4 (4.5 – 4.9 – 5.1 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.9, 6+) and rockets from seventh to third. A combined +1.1 in January/February, WEZI surrendered roughly half that increase with a March loss of six-tenths. This (6.9) represents the highest 6+-showing for “Easy” in its approximately four-year AC history. The station WEZI is chasing – Renda Broadcasting’s similarly-programmed WEJZ “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” – notches a +.3 (7.2 – 7.5, 6+) and inches up from third to second. August’s increase curtails four decreases in a row that resulted in a collective -1.5 (8.7 – 8.3 – 7.6 – 7.5 – 7.2, 6+). “Holiday” 2018’s 16.3 by adult contemporary WEJZ is the highest 6+-mark for any Jacksonville station since “Holiday” 2015 when it notched a 19.5 (6+). Segueing from second to fourth, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle” is -2.1 in three straight setbacks (8.6 – 8.1 – 7.3 – 6.5, 6+). After a March-only stay at #1, “The Eagle” shifted to a second-place tie in April; progressed to a first-place tie in May; and had sole possession of first-place in June. WJGL’s April loss of six-tenths interrupted three upticks in succession that resulted in a +1.6 (7.3 – 8.1 – 8.6 – 8.9, 6+). Meanwhile, co-owned urban contemporary WJGL-HD2 drops one-half share (2.1 – 1.6, #15 to #16, 6+). Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “99.9 Gator Country” is a combined +1.2 in July/August (3.5 – 4.3 – 4.7, 6+) and advances from ninth to eighth. This time last month, iHeartMedia-owned WQIK “99.1 Jacksonville’s Country”; urban contemporary cluster-mate WJBT “93.3 The Beat”; and Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” were deadlocked in fourth-place (6.6, 6+). All three are down in August with WQIK taking the biggest hit, plummeting -1.2 to 5.4 (seventh), its lowest 6+-stat since April’s 4.5. Both WAPE and WJBT were up six-tenths in July but they each regress by seven-tenths to 5.9 (6+) and are tied again – this time at #5. Thus, they have identical (6.0 – 6.6 – 5.9, 6+) June – July – August profiles. In advance of the July sweep, WAPE had been an overall -1.3 in three straight down or flat moves (7.3 – 7.2 – 7.0 – 6.0, 6+) with June’s 6.0 its weakest 6+-stat since 5.2 in “Holiday” 2018. Meanwhile, “The Beat” – which was +1.4 in June – had its best showing (6.6, July 2019, 6+) since May 2017’s 7.2.
West Palm Beach
Spoken-Word Formats – It’s another positive report for iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk,” which is an overall +2.0 in six successive sweeps without a loss (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.0, steady at #6, 6+). June marked the first time WJNO reached the three-share level since December 2017’s 3.3. Repeating at #11, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” is a cumulative +.9 in three spikes in a row (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.6, 6+). By gaining two-tenths to 2.1 (#14 to #13, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches” halts three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a loss of four-tenths (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+). Miami news/talk sibling WIOD “610 News Radio” is up four-tenths in three modest bumps in succession (.6 – .8 – .9 – 1.0, #20 to #19, 6+).
Locked on .3 (6+) in June and July, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” picks up one-tenth to .4 (#22, 6+). After posting a .1 (6+) in August 2018, iHeartMedia-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” has been a “no-show” in the subsequent 13 ratings periods.
Returning the two-tenths it picked up in July (2.9 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN remains in tenth-place.
West Palm Beach Music Formats – This market’s first eight August 2019 finishers are either up or flat from July 2019, with each station in the top four gaining a minimum of one-half share (6+). Leading the way in that category is iHeartMedia-owned adult contemporary WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5,” which roars back from July’s -.8 with an August +1.0 (7.2 – 6.4 – 7.4, third to second, 6+). Whereas this (7.4, August 2019) is the best 6+-showing for “Kool” since July 2016’s 7.5, the 6.4 (6+) in July 2019 was its softest since March (6.4, as well). Meanwhile, Hubbard Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” craters by -1.5 (6.6 – 5.1, second to third, 6+). When “Sunny” gained one-tenth in July, it suspended three straight decreases that accounted for an overall -1.7 (8.2 – 7.0 – 6.8 – 6.5, 6+). Prior to its current 5.1 (6+), “Sunny” last fell below a six-share in November 2018 (5.0, 6+). A collective -2.2 in three straight decreases (5.9 – 5.0 – 4.1 – 3.7, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting urban AC WMBX “X-102.3” answers with a +.8 to 4.5 (sixth to fourth, 6+). April’s +.6 took WMBX to 5.9, its highest 6+-share since May 2018’s 6.2. Up six-tenths and advancing from #12 to #11, iHeartMedia Miami CHR WHYI “Y-100” logs a (6+ West Palm Beach) share between 2.0 – 2.6 the fourth time in a row (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.6, 6+). With an August +.5 to 8.3 (6+), Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF pulls the plug on four successive downturns that led to a whopping -3.4 (11.2 – 9.0 – 8.8 – 8.2 – 7.8, 6+). Furthermore, “Variety from the 90s and Now” is #1 the eighth time in a row. July’s 7.8 was its lowest 6+-share – and first time below an eight-share (6+) – since “Holiday” 2016 (7.7). Conversely, WRMF logged a +2.0 in March to 11.2, its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well). Three drops in succession by WAY Media contemporary Christian WAYF led to a -1.0 (2.7 – 2.5 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+), but “WAY-FM Uplifting – Upbeat – Real” ends the slide with a one-tenth increase to 1.8 (#15 to #14, 6+). Without a loss the past three reports for a net gain of three-tenths (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WKGR “GATER 98.7” (fourth to ninth) sputters by seven-tenths to 3.3, its lowest 6+-stat since February 2016 (3.3, as well). Despite being +1.7 via three straight up or flat trends (2.0 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 3.7, 6+), Spanish contemporary cluster-mate WRLX “Mia 92.1” backslides from sixth to seventh.
Greensboro
Spoken-Word Formats – Adding one-half share to July’s +.6 (3.2 – 3.8 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk,
& Sports Station” carries on at #10. This (4.3) is its best 6+-stat since February’s 4.4.
In four straight sweeps without a loss, Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” nets two-tenths (.8 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.0, steady at #14, 6+).
On one hand, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD is #13 the 16th consecutive ratings period, but “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” forfeits two-tenths to 2.3 (6+), thus snapping three straight increases that yielded nine-tenths (1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.5, 6+). University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC doubles (+.5) its 6+ AQH-share in four successive up or flat moves (.5 – .8 – .8 – .8 – 1.0, #15 to #14, 6+).
Greensboro Music Formats – The market’s two powerhouse country stations log strong (6+) July 2019 – August 2019 improvements – but – they swap places. After being without an increase the past three reports for an overall loss of one-half share (5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.2, 6+), Entercom’s WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” erases the shortfall with a +.8 to 6.0 (eighth to sixth, 6+). Before dropping two-tenths in March, “The Wolf” had three consecutive shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). With a May through July topline of 5.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 (6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WTQR “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” follows with a gain of six-tenths to 5.9 (6+) and continues at #7. In three straight sweeps without an increase, WTQR was a cumulative -1.0 (6.0 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+), but erased 70% of that deficit in May with a +.7 to 5.7 (6+). Flat in March, “Q-104.1” cancelled out January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Over the course of the last 16 sweeps (June 2018 through August 2019), WTQR has prevailed over WPAW ten times (June 2018, July, August, September, October, November, “Holiday” 2018, January 2019, May, and July); WPAW has come out on top five times (December 2018, February 2019, March, April, and August; and the two were tied in June 2019 (5.3, 6+). Five straight positive spikes by iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ have netted +2.3 (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.8, steady at #9, 6+). In June, “105.7 – Man Up” reached the four-share level (4.1, 6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 4.0. This marks the third time this calendar year (March, June, and now in August) that Entercom adult hits WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” is #1 (8.8 – 9.5, +.7, second to first, 6+). Its eight (6+) fluctuations in 2019 are: +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); -1.6 (April); +1.1 (May); +.5 (June); -1.0 (July); and +.7 (August). Prior to its March stay at #1, WSMW last reached #1 in August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). Occupying the top spot the other five months in 2019 is co-owned urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School,” which slips to second (9.5 – 9.3, -.2, 6+). April’s increase of six-tenths curtailed five straight declines that resulted in a -2.3 (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). WQMG’s consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) was snapped at 26 in January; it has been within 9.1 – 9.9 (6+) range ever since. Even though iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG craters by -1.5 to 6.9 (6+), “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, and Today” remains in third-place. A combined +.5 in June/July (7.9 – 8.1 – 8.4, 6+) WMAG has its lowest 6+-stat (6.9) in exactly one year (6.8, 6+, August 2018. Off six-tenths (3.5 – 2.9, #11 to #12, 6+), co-owned CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss FM – All The Hits” slips below a three-share (2.9, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018’s 2.8.
Memphis
Spoken-Word Formats – Three straight jumps by iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” (steady at #8) have yielded seven-tenths (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.8, 6+).
Albeit unchanged at #13, Entercom sports talk WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” is -1.7 in seven consecutive down or flat trends (4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.3, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat since July 2018 (2.3, as well). Co-owned WMC-AM “ESPN 790” is without an increase the 14th straight time (including twelve consecutive .1 showings) for a collective loss of three-tenths (.4 – .4 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 -.1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, #18 to #21, 6+).
Memphis Music Formats – This Tennessee market’s (6+) adult contemporary share improved by two-tenths in June; was -1.1 in July; and balloons by +1.3 in August. Precisely obliterating July’s -.8 with a +.8 (6.6 – 5.8 – 6.6, 6+), Entercom’s WRVR “104.5 The River” progresses from fifth to fourth. In advance of June’s +.1, “The River” was an overall -2.4 in three straight declines (8.9 – 7.8 – 7.7 – 6.5, 6+). While “Holiday” 2018’s 11.3 is its strongest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2017’s 12.9 (#6), July’s (5.8) was its lowest since May 2017’s 5.7. Nine recent (6+) WRVR fluctuations include: +2.4 (October 2018); -1.6 (December); +2.0 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.1 (January 2019); +.7 (February); -1.1 (March); -1.2 (May); -.8 (July); and +.8 (August). While unchanged at #16, its adult contemporary rival – Cumulus Media’s WKIM “98.9 The Bridge” – picks up one-half share in August and is in an alternating down/up pattern: 1.1 – .9 – 1.0 – .7 – 1.2 (April through August, 6+). July’s .7, was its lowest 6+-stat since transitioning from urban-rhythmic oldies to AC in late-2017. WKIM surrendered nearly half (-.7) its 6+ AQH-share in April/May (1.6 – 1.1 – .9, 6+). “The Bridge” reached the five-share level (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, but was a combined -4.0 in January/February (5.1 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+). Down or flat the past four reports for a collective -1.2 (4.6 – 4.5 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+), cluster-mate WGKX “Kix 106 – Today’s Best Country” hangs out a +.7 to 4.1 and enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Despite returning the three-tenths it picked up in July (9.8 – 10.1 – 9.8, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS “V-101” is #1 the tenth time in a row. July’s increase curtailed four straight down or flat trends that accounted for a -1.8 (11.6 – 11.4 – 10.4 – 10.4 – 9.8, 6+). Prior to June’s loss of six-tenths to 9.8 (6+), KJMS reached double-digits (6+) in each of the previous 14 ratings periods. “Holiday” 2018’s 12.8 is the highest 6+-share since December 2012’s 13.5 for “V-101,” which was +2.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (10.5 – 11.5 – 12.8, 6+). North Mississippi Media Group’s WEBL “Country Legends 95.3 The Rebel” (1.2, 6+) and classic hits-oldies WOWW “Guess FM – Memphis’ Greatest Hits” (.6, 6+) pop on at #16 and #19, respectively. Following three straight bumps for a +1.2 (3.3 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WXMX “98.1 The Max – Maximum Rock” surrenders all but two-tenths of that increase (3.5, -1.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#8 to #11) with its lowest 6+-stat (3.5) since December 2018’s 3.0. July’s increase of two-tenths to 3.4 (6+) by iHeartMedia-owned WDIA halted five successive downturns that accounted for a -2.1 (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). In August though, “AM 1070 – The Heart & Soul of Memphis” falters by eight-tenths (2.6, #11 to #12, 6+). Its CHR sibling, KWNW “101.9 Kiss FM,” nearly doubled (+1.2) its 6+ AQH in June/July (1.3 – 1.7 – 2.5, 6+) with July’s 2.5 its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era. “Kiss” relinquishes seven-tenths in August to 1.8 (6+) but remains at #14. Regressing by seven-tenths as well in August is Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO “103.5 The Best Mix of R&B,” which is a collective -.2.7 via four successive setbacks (9.1 – 8.7 – 7.5 – 7.1 – 6.4, third to fifth, 6+). The last time WRBO fell below a seven-share (6+) was exactly four years ago (August 2015, 6.9, 6+).
Hartford
Spoken-Word Formats – While it repeats at #7, Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News
Talk 1080” follows July’s -1.1 with an August loss of one-tenth to 6.2, its lowest 6+-stat since February’s 5.9. Down one-half share in July, Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” is up one-tenth (.5 – .6, 6+) and gains one ranker (#15 to #14). After being a “no-show” in June 2018, iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” has logged a .1 (6+) in each of the subsequent 15 survey periods (#18 to #16, 6+).
In four straight sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia sports talk WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” has lost three-tenths (1.8 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5, unchanged at #12, 6+).
In back-to-back sweeps, Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” improves by one-tenth (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4, steady in ninth place, 6+). July’s increase curtailed three straight drops that accounted for a collective -1.1 (5.3 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+). Notwithstanding that its 6+ AQH share has been sliced exactly in half (-.8) via three drops in succession (1.6 – 1.2 – 1.0 – .8, 6+), University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” advances from #14 to #13.
Hartford Music Formats – A collective -1.5 in six straight down or flat trends (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting alternative WMRQ “Radio 104.1” applies the brakes with a +1.0 to 4.1 and continues in tenth-place. Co-owned Spanish tropical WMRQ-HD2, which was without an increase the past survey periods and -1.0 in that stretch (2.6 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.6, 6+), improves by six-tenths to 2.2 (flat at #11, 6+). Prior to July, the last time WMRQ-HD2 fell below a two-share (6+) was May 2018 (1.9). A combined -.4 in June/July (6.4 – 6.3 – 6.0, 6+), classic rock cluster-mate WDRC-FM (eighth to fourth) erupts with a +.9 to 6.9, the highest 6+-stat for “102.9 The Whale” since it flipped to classic rock in January 2015. The station’s previous best was in March 2014 (7.0, 6+), when WDRC-FM was classic hits-oldies. By gaining one-tenth to 9.5 (6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRCH ends a June/July slide that accounted for a -1.4 (10.8 – 10.4 – 9.4, 6+). Moreover, “Lite 100.5” is #1 the 38th consecutive time. Nine of its recent (6+) shifts include: -.8 (November 2018); +1.8 (December); -6.9 (January); +1.0 (February; -1.0 (March); -1.3 (April); +1.0 (May); and -1.0 (July). The +5.6 in “Holiday” 2018 was to 18.0, the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017). Prior to slipping to 9.8 in April, “Lite” was in double-digits (6+) in 30 of the previous 32 sweeps. Following three straight reports without a loss that netted +1.9 (5.3 – 5.7 – 7.2 – 7.2, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” spirals by -1.1 to 6.1 (6+) and drifts from third to eighth. July’s 7.2 was its best 6+-showing since May 2018’s 7.7. On the heels of July’s +1.2 to 7.9, its highest 6+-share since August 2017’s 8.3, co-owned WWYZ surrenders more than half that bounty (7.2, -.7, 6+) but repeats in the runner-up slot. In advance of July’s increase, “Country 92.5” was an overall -1.0 in five consecutive negative or neutral sweeps (7.7 – 7.0 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.8 – 6.7, 6+).
Friday, August 23, 2019
JVC Media Unveils New ‘Florida Man Radio’ Format. The new format on WDYZ-AM/W288CJ in the Orlando market (licensed to Altamonte Springs and Oviedo, respectively) will feature Shannon Burke and Bubba the Love Sponge, along with Scott Ledger and attorney Justin Clark. JVC Media says “Florida Man Radio” will formally
launch in early September 2019 with a live press conference from the JVC Orlando studios hosted by the air staff. JVC Orlando director of programming Len Shackelford says, “This will be a personality-driven talk station focused on Central Florida. There will be NO topics off limits, including topics specifically about our on-air staff. Think sports, politics, pop culture… if you talk about it in your life or on social media, ‘Florida Man Radio 660 AM and 105.5 FM’ will talk about it.” The lineup will be Bubba in morning drive, “Scott Ledger’s Dangerous Conversation” in middays, Shannon Burke in afternoon drive, and attorney Justin Clark’s “You Have Power” from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. JVC CEO John Caracciolo adds, “This is exactly what radio needs right now – fresh, new, funny, and local – this is ‘Florida Man Radio.’ The vision of a locally based talk station that isn’t afraid to confront the big topics while not taking it too seriously, screams the mantra of JVC. We aren’t afraid to buck the norms – keeping live and local radio working for our clients and listeners, providing great results for clients, and continuing to invest in great programming. I’m thrilled for the future of our stations across the country.”
Bonneville Announces Management Restructuring and Promotions at Seattle Station Group. It was last Friday that Ryan Maguire exited his role as director of news and programming for news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle. Bonneville Seattle Media Group had been quiet about that change but now announces a number of management promotions and duty realignments that includes the elimination of Maguire’s old director of news and programming position. Four new directors have been named: Mike Salk rises from
program director of sports KIRO-AM “710 ESPN” to director of programming, overseeing KIRO-FM, KIRO-AM “710 ESPN,” and news/talk KTTH-AM; Tina Sorensen is promoted from KIRO/KTTH sales manager to director of digital, managing 
both content and revenue for the Bonneville Seattle digital properties; Cathy Cangiano is upped from “710 ESPN” sales manager to director of sales for KIRO-FM, KIRO-AM, KTTH-AM, and Seattle Mariners Radio; Alison Lichtbach is promoted from controller to director of finance, managing the business and operations departments. Current Bonneville Seattle managers whose duties are
expanding are: Bryan Buckalew as the KIRO-FM program director; Colleen O’Brien as the KIRO-FM managing editor leading the news department; and Ethan Kelly as sales manager for the KIRO/KTTH sales staff. Bonneville Seattle VP and market manager Dave Pridemore says, “These are proven leaders within our organization who are ready for their challenging assignments. They are innovative and prepared to provide guidance as we look to the future of our dynamic and far reaching audio and digital products. This new structure ensures our success in 2020 and beyond and elevates our daily focus on our digital business, which is imperative, as Bonneville Seattle is well positioned in this space to generate significant audience growth and to deliver solid ROI to our clients.”
iHeartMedia Launches New Philly Sports Talk Outlet. The company is flipping WDAS-AM/W273DO from adult hits to sports talk as “FOX Sports – The Gambler” available on 1480 AM, 102.5 FM, 105.3 HD2 and online via iHeartRadio. iHeartMedia says, “The
Gambler will feature FOX Sports’ compelling and entertaining brand of sports talk programming including ‘The Herd with Colin Cowherd,’ ‘The Dan Patrick Show,’ ‘Outkick the Coverage with Clay Travis,’ ‘Straight Outta Vegas with RJ Bell,’ and others, as well as ‘The Daily Ticket’ hosted by Sean Brace, owner of phillyinfluencer.com, a well-known local sports website. iHeartMedia Philly SVP of sales Jeff Moore adds, “Whether you’re heading to Atlantic City or one of our four local sports books, we’ll have what you need to keep you informed. It’ll be a great mix of national sports talk icons with the local edge to inform and entertain the gambling audience in a groundbreaking way.”
Satire, Parody and Perspective in the Age of Political Correctness. The co-founder and head writer of The Capitol Steps, the long-running Washington, DC-based political comedy troupe, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Elaina Newport joins the TALKERS founder in a provocative discussion about the changing nature of
satire, parody, and the expression of political perspective in the current age of hyper-political correctness. The Capitol Steps, formed in 1981 by a group of newly unemployed senate staffers whose bosses had lost re-election, is a non-partisan equal opportunity offender. 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.
Talk Show Host Wayne Allyn Root Referenced in Four Presidential Tweets. Nationally syndicated, Las Vegas-based talk radio host Wayne Allyn Root played a role in the week’s national conversation when his statement that President Trump “is the best
president for Israel in the history of the world. And the Jewish people love him like he is the King of Israel. They love him like he is the second coming of God. And then in America, American Jews don’t like him” was Tweeted by the president. This was related to the larger story about the president’s “disloyalty” comment about Jews who vote Democrat. Root’s talk program is syndicated by USA Radio Network and simulcast on Newsmax TV and he became an important facet of the viral story. In another Tweet, Trump shared a segment of Root’s program. Root says of all the attention focused on him, “That was a 24-hours for the record books!”
New Installment Posted of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The recently launched, one-hour experimental 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 on the website of its flagship station, iHeartMedia’s WONK-FM, Washington, DC at approximately 4:00 pm ET today (8/23). The new episode titled, “The China Syndrome!” looks back at this past week of August 19-23, 2019 and features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS magazine; Dr. Dana Cheng, senior editor China news, The Epoch Times; Phil Valentine, talk show host, WWTN, Nashville; Gerald Celente, publisher, Trends Journal; Darlene Love, legendary singer/inductee Rock & Roll Hall of Fame; and Victoria Jones, executive director, the DC Radio Company. 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 point for the week-in-review as well as several other stations around the country including KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KBKW, Aberdeen, WA and during the weekend on the Virginia Talk Radio Network as well as Pioneer Valley Radio in Springfield, MA and the iHeartRadio Podcast Network. 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.
TALKERS News Notes. A new podcast hosted by longtime ESPN commentator and
award-winning sports columnist Woody Paige is debuting on PodcastOne. “The Woody Paige Podcast” features the sports media personality, known for his trademarked “Around the Horn” chalkboard, as he welcomes sports and entertainment legends for in-depth and news-making conversations. The premiere episode spotlights ESPN’s Adam Schefter and EA Sports designer Clint 
Oldenburg…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that radio personality Kathy Hart – formerly of the “Eric & Kathy” morning show (with Eric Ferguson) on Hubbard Radio’s hot AC WTMX – is re-locating to Bozeman, Montana for personal and family reasons. Hart left WTMX in 2017 and has been doing fill-in talk host work for Tribune Media’s news/talk WGN-AM. She says she’s open to working in radio in Montana but has nothing lined up…..SiriusXM is presenting 77 live college football games over the period of August 24 through September 2 as the 2019 season begins. The opening week schedule features games with every team from the Associated Press Top 25 poll, including #1 Clemson vs. Georgia Tech, #2 Alabama vs. Duke, #3 Georgia vs. Vanderbilt, and the season’s first Top 25 matchup: #11 Oregon vs. #16 Auburn.
U.S.-China Trade War Top News/Talk Story for Week of August 19-23. The ongoing tariff battle was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Hong Kong Protests. Coming in at #3 were the fears of a recession, followed by the 2020 presidential race at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top 10 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.
The Best of Beasley. Pictured above are the 2019 winners of Beasley Media Group’s “Outstanding Achievement Awards.” The presentations were made during a special dinner that took place at the company’s annual management meeting at the Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia on Wednesday (8/21). From l-r are: BMG Philadelphia chief engineer Keith Smeal (Technology Award winner), BMG Philadelphia director of sales Paul Blake (DOS of the Year), BMG spoken word brand manager & WBZ-FM program director Mike Thomas (Program Director of the Year), BMG Boston VP/market manager Mary Menna (Market Manager of the Year), BMG CEO Caroline Beasley, BMG COO/EVP Brian Beasley, BMG president Bruce Beasley, BMG New Jersey RVP/market manager Dan Finn, BMG Tampa VP/market manager Steve Triplett, BMG Philadelphia VP/market manager Joe Bell, and WMMR-FM/WMGK-FM program director & BMG rock format brand manager Bill Weston. Photo: Chorus Photography
Cool News/On-Air Opportunity. NRG Media – Lincoln is looking for a news anchor/reporter who can double as morning co-host for Lincoln’s #1 news/talk station. KLIN says, “This is your chance to inform and entertain during morning drive in Nebraska’s Capital City and Home of the Cornhuskers! The show is loaded with personality, and we talk about today’s issues in a fun and
entertaining environment. If you are energetic, love radio, are passionate about local news, know how to enterprise, can connect with the community, are able to create compelling & award-winning content, we want to talk with you! You will share the mic with a talented group of professionals who all love radio and each of its digital platforms. We want someone who wants to be part of our amazing morning show, knows news and who can interact with our hosts and listeners. Your daily work will include preparing, producing and editing news, delivering that news on-air, and posting it online, as well as general reporting duties and reporting live from the field as needed. In addition, you will co-host KLIN’s popular morning drive program. The ideal candidate will have a degree from a four-year institution and at least one year of radio and/or other relevant media experience or and equivalent combination of education and experience. If you have excellent announcing and production skills, excellent computer skills using Office products, Adobe Audition and WordPress, and radio systems like NexGen Digital Broadcast, send us your resume! NRG Media is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.”
PPM Analysis: Adult Hits. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian turns his eye to the music radio world in this analysis of the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s July 2019 PPM survey. Just over half of the adult hits stations on our panel see their weekly, 6+ AQH share rise (52%), while 43% dip and 5% remain the same, compared to their numbers in the June 2019 survey. Comparing July 2018 to July 2019, although 55% of the stations on our panel are down, winners include KBPA, Austin (+1.7); KJAQ, Seattle (+1.6); WLKO, Charlotte (+1.4); and WRRK, Pittsburgh (+1.3). KBPA, Austin “103.5 Bob FM” was the only adult hits station to rank #1 (6+) in its respective market in July. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. A new morning drive show is launching on Cumulus Media’s CHR WHTS, Grand Rapids “105.3 HOT FM.” “The Gray and Green Show” – starring Rachael Gray and Jackie Green (pictured here) debuts on Monday
(8/26). Cumulus calls it “the first and only morning radio show in West Michigan presented by two female hosts.” Gray has been hosting the morning show on WHTS for the past seven years. Green joins her from the station’s afternoon drive program. Green previously served with crosstown alternative WGRD-FM and as a feature reporter for WXMI-TV “FOX 17.” WHTS program director Lori Bennett comments, “We are so excited to present this one-of-a-kind show to the West Michigan audience! Rachael and Jackie are two of the most dynamic personalities I’ve ever worked with and their emotional connection as part of the West Michigan community is unmatched. Sure, they’re about ‘girl power,’ but actually, it’s ‘people power.’”…..Beasley Media Group’s country WKLB, Boston “Country 102.5” announces that actor and musician Kiefer Sutherland will serve as the official celebrity host of the eleventh “Country 102.5 Street Party” featuring headliner Maren Morris with performances by Mitchell Tenpenny, Lindsay Ell, Ryan Hurd, Matt Stell, and Jordan Davis. WKLB brand manager David Corey states, “This is our best lineup to date. Maren is one of the hottest acts in the country format and beyond! It’s a privilege to have her headline the show!”…..iHeartMedia names Jerry Houston 
program director for iHeartRadio’s “PRIDE Radio, the Pulse of LGBTQ America,” effective October 1. iHeartMedia Northern California Region SVP and PRIDE Radio general manager Don Parker says, “Jerry has been an integral part of PRIDE Radio for many years as our assistant program director and I’m thrilled to elevate him to program director of this important brand. With his dedicated focus on the PRIDE brand, we have the opportunity to grow this well-established network further, expanding our LBGTQ+ offerings with podcasting, community events and meaningful partnerships.”…..Cumulus Media’s Westwood One is offering two exclusive pop and rock Labor Day Weekend music specials hosted by singer/actress Sabrina Carpenter and Incubus lead singer Brandon Boyd. “Last Big Weekend of Summer,” hosted by Carpenter, is a four-hour CHR special. “Last Official Weekend of Summer,” hosted by Boyd, is a four-hour rock special that looks back at the big summer festivals and provides a preview of upcoming fall concert tours. Both are designed to air from Saturday, August 31 through Monday, September 2.
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Price: Today’s Radio Handle Is ‘Michael.’ Continuity and crisis management expert Howard Price writes today that Gulf Coast stations should be all about Hurricane Michael. With the storm expected to make landfall later today, Price is shocked that
so many Gulf Coast radio stations were still in regular programming mode with a potential category 4 hurricane headed straight for them. Hopefully, those stations have prepared for the worst. Price offers some advice to those stations who have not prepared for an emergency with a simple outline of how to create an emergency plan that all station staffers can understand and execute in a short amount of time. Remember, not all emergencies come with the days of warnings that hurricanes do. Some weather events come seemingly out of nowhere. Man-made emergencies such as shootings or other forms of civil unrest also leave little time to plan ahead. Read Price’s entire piece here.
KKOB-AM Is Voice of Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Pictured above is the KKOB-AM, Albuquerque hot air balloon (center) among the dozens of other balloons lifting off at the 47th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event opened on October 6 and runs through the 14th. The Cumulus Media news/talk station is the official radio voice of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The station is broadcasting live every day from the event with traffic, weather, and official updates starting at 4:57 am each day.
JVC Media Expands KC Armstrong’s ‘WMAP Radio’ Show to Orlando. The daily, one-hour radio program “WMAP Radio” starring former, longtime Howard Stern show cast member KC Armstrong is branching out from its home on WRCN, Riverhead, Long Island “103.9 LI News.” JVC Media is syndicating Armstrong’s program and the first affiliate station is the company’s rock WOTW-HD2/W231CT “BUD 94.1” in
Orlando. The program’s full title is “World’s Most Amazing People with KC Armstrong,” and the station says, “In this era of bad news, fake news, Internet trolls, and general weary cynicism, KC is making quite a positive impression on Long Island and expansion of his show is the next evolution. KC, who many people remember as a cast member of Howard Stern’s terrestrial radio show back in the day, comes to this pursuit carrying some damn dramatic baggage.” KC adds, “My first book comes out on October 27. It’s called Simply Amazing and it includes my struggle with mental illness and health problems along with 11 of my most inspirational interviews. This will be a wonderful opportunity to share this with listeners all over the country.” WRCN general manager Bruce Shepard says, “‘LI News Radio’ is proud to have served as the flagship station for KC Armstrong over the past year. We look forward to the next evolution as his show’s expansion is sure to bring more access to celebrity guests and entertainment.”
TALKERS News Notes. The New York Daily News reports that former WFAN, New York morning show co-host Craig Carton is asking the court not to use the phrase “Ponzi scheme” during his coming trial on fraud charges, arguing that it would
prejudice the jury against him. Carton is facing charges in federal court in New York for allegedly using millions of dollars from investors in his after-market concert ticket business to pay off personal expenses, including large gambling debts. But prosecutors argue that a search of his cell phone indicates Carton himself executed several online searches for the terms “Ponzi scheme” and “Ponzi” in the months prior to his arrest. Jury selection for his trial is to begin on October 29…..iHeartRadio and HowStuffWorks in partnership with School of Humans launch a new, true-crime podcast called “Hell and Gone.” This podcast dives deep into the murder of Rebekah Gould, a 22-year old college student who was mysteriously murdered on her way to a gas station in Ozarks, Arkansas 14 years ago. It’s hosted by Catherine Townsend…..Entercom all-news WCBS-AM, New York names Anita Bonita to the station’s staff as a weekend news anchor…..Cumulus Media names Scotty Bastable VP and director of sales for its San Francisco cluster that includes news/talk station KGO and KSFO. Bastable was most recently agency and corporate development manager for CBS 360. He also served in the Bay Area as general manager of Entercom’s adult contemporary KOIT. He begins his new role with Cumulus on November 15.
Nikki Haley to Step Down, Kavanaugh Confirmation Aftermath, Tracking Hurricane Michael, AMAs/Taylor Swift Speech, U.S.-China Trade War, Sears to Enter Bankruptcy, Missing Saudi Journalist, NFL Action, and MLB Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/9). The announcement that Nikki Haley will leave her Ambassador to the UN position at the end of the year; the aftermath of the contentious nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court; the tracking of Hurricane Michael as it heads toward the Florida panhandle; Tuesday night’s American Music Awards and Taylor Swift’s “get out the vote” speech; the trade war between the U.S. and China; a report Sears has hired a firm to begin bankruptcy proceedings; concerns missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered by the Saudi regime; the weekend’s NFL action; and the Major League Baseball playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pioneer Valley Radio Reaches Special Milestone. Now in its fourth year of service to Western Massachusetts, hyper-local online radio station, Pioneer Valley Radio (www.pioneervalleyradio.com) has reached a milestone that GM/morning host Brad
Shepard describes as “extremely gratifying.” Yesterday (10/9), the station posted its 200th on demand special feature program. Pioneer Valley Radio’s “special feature” programs include interviews with community leaders and in-depth reports on local people and activities that are presented to its listenership above and beyond its daily fare of a morning show, regularly scheduled specialty hosts, video events, and live, local sports play-by-play. The outlet was launched in 2014 by Shepard and TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison as an experiment in digital era “media station” development. Shepard – a former longtime Springfield, MA morning host on iHeartMedia’s WHYN and Cumulus Media’s WMAS – describes Pioneer Valley Radio’s format as “non-partisan, personality-oriented public affairs covering local politics, business, public safety, health care, and arts & entertainment.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. After the recent resignation of long-time program director Ron Valeri, Entercom names Joe Calgaro program director for its active rock WAAF, Boston. Calgaro leaves his post at Saga Communications’ WHQG, Milwaukee “102.9 The Hog” to make the move to Boston…..iHeartMedia announces Marc Anthony is being honored with the third annual iHeartRadio Premio Corazón Latino Award at the 2018 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina on November 3 at the American Airlines Arena in Miami. In addition, Marc Anthony, Manuel Turizo and Mau y Ricky are joining the lineup that includes previously announced performers Pitbull, Nicky Jam, Steve Aoki, Farruko, Nacho, Becky G, and Zion & Lennox…..Friends, family, and co-workers are mourning the death of classic rock WBVX, Lexington, Kentucky air personality Shea Maddox, who committed suicide early Monday morning. Maddox was the midday host at the LM Communications’ station…..Pictured below is “NASH Nights Live” co-host Elaina Smith (left) with country star Kane Brown (right) backstage at the American Music Awards in Los Angeles. Brown picked up three awards at last night’s ceremonies: Favorite Male Artist – Country; Favorite Album – Country (for his self-titled album), and Favorite Song – Country (for “Heaven”).
Monday, May 21, 2018
Is There a Heavenly Hundred? Today, as TALKERS magazine posts the 2018 edition of the Heavy Hundred, Paula Ryan, the wife of late radio personality Matt Patrick writes a piece for TALKERS in which she remembers her husband and his intense love of and dedication to the craft of performing on radio. She writes, “Every year we looked forward to the Heavy Hundred being published by TALKERS magazine. Many of Matt’s close friends in the business got the nod year after year. Matt would celebrate his colleagues, singing their accolades, and then quickly got back to working on his own shows in order to take it all to the next level. I knew it was only a matter of time before he would land on that list. Unfortunately, time was not on his side.” Read Ryan’s piece here.
Dennis Green Named Chief Revenue Officer for Sun & Fun Media. Longtime Westwood One executive Dennis Green has joined Sun & Fun Media as chief revenue officer. Sun & Fun Media creates products for radio stations, including: vacations, gift cards, vehicle wraps, branded station
merchandise, and bill pay for NTR events, television and billboard advertising for radio stations, research, consultants, equipment, software and more, all available exclusively through barter. In this newly created position, the company says that Green will lead the development of new products and services for radio stations and will manage a team of six affiliate sales professionals to grow the company’s affiliations across the U.S. He’ll continue to be based in New York City. Sun & Fun Media co-founder and CEO Rob Koblasz says, “Dennis Green is one of the most respected, experienced and trusted affiliate sales executives in the radio industry and we are thrilled that he is joining Sun & Fun Media as chief revenue officer. With Dennis’ considerable expertise in radio operations and network radio sales, we will be able to offer our affiliates more and better solutions exclusively for barter than ever before.”
Former FOX News Host Andrea Tantaros’ Suit Against Company and Individuals Dismissed. The former FOX News Channel personality was suing FNC and a number of individuals, including former FOX executive Bill
Shine and late FOX chief Roger Ailes, for $10 million. Andrea Tantaros claimed that in response to her making allegations of sexual harassment against various FOX executives, she was put under illegal surveillance. Tantaros was representing herself – pro se – and in a ruling highly critical of the merits of the suit, Judge George B. Daniels dismisses all of the claims, ruling that Tantaros failed at every level to provide factual support for the allegations. Tantaros claimed, among other things, that she was being spied upon by one of Roger Ailes security personnel, that FOX tech persons installed malware on her personal computer in order to spy on her, and that she was illegally videotaped at work.
Kirshbom to Lead iHeartMedia Raleigh Cluster. Radio management pro Alan Kirshbom joins iHeartMedia as market president for the company’s Raleigh cluster that includes news/talk outlet WTKK-FM. Most recently,
Kirshbom was vice president and market manager for Cumulus Media in Memphis. Previously, he’d served as vice president and market manager for Entercom in Austin and Milwaukee. As market president, Kirshbom will be responsible for “leveraging iHeartMedia Raleigh’s radio station brands and assets to provide quality programming and create new revenue opportunities. He will spearhead all aspects of the market’s operations including sales, programming, digital, events and promotion initiatives.” Kirshbom will report to Dave Carwile, president of iHeartMedia’s Virginia/Carolina Region.
Russel Robertson Appointed SVP of Sales for iHeartMedia Tampa. Moving from the company’s Seattle station group to Tampa, Russell Robertson assumes the SVP of sales role for iHeartMedia’s cluster there. iHeartMedia’s Tampa cluster includes news/talk WFLA and sports talk WDAE. iHM Tampa market president Chris Soechtig says, “I’m thrilled to have Russell join our team. His 10-plus years of experience in iHeartMedia’s Pacific Northwest and San Diego Regions coupled with his passion for helping clients grow their business makes him the ideal choice for SVPS in Tampa Bay.”
Raising Money for Nevada GOP Candidates. Pictured above are Las Vegas-based talk show hosts Dr. Daliah Wachs (right) and Heidi Harris (left) at the Denim & Diamonds BBQ Fundraiser held in Las Vegas on Saturday night. Wachs and Harris co-emceed the event sponsored by the Southern Nevada Republicans Women’s PAC and designed to raise funds for primary race GOP candidates. WSB-AM, Atlanta talk show host – and former presidential candidate – Herman Cain was a speaker at the event.
JVC Media’s John Caracciolo Delivers Commencement at Long Island’s Five Towns College. Pictured above at the commencement at Five Towns College in Dix Hills, Long Island is JVC Media president and CEO John Caracciolo (left) with Chicago drummer and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Danny Seraphine (center) and school president David Cohen (right). Caracciolo was honored with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters at the ceremony. JVC Media owns and operates stations on Long Island – including news/talk WRCN-FM, Riverhead, New York “LI News Radio” – and in Florida.
TALKERS News Notes. Omaha native and Radio One founder Cathy Hughes (right) is pictured here with Nebraska media personality Tom Becka (left) –
formerly of KFAB, Omaha and KCMO, Kansas City – after being honored by the Omaha Press Club. The city of Omaha named a street in her honor, as well. Hughes joins the ranks of other famous Nebraskans including: Warren Buffett, Johnny Carson, and Larry the Cable Guy…..Indiana Radio Watch publisher Blaine Thompson reports that Daryl McIntire is exiting his role as director of sales for Sarkes Tarzian’s news/talk WGCL/W241CD and triple A WTTS in Bloomington, Indiana. McIntire served with Sarkes Tarzian for 32 years in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne…..Pictured below broadcasting live from the Connecticut Democratic State Convention on May 18 is WTIC-AM, Hartford “Newstalk 1080” afternoon drive personality Todd Feinburg. Feinburg broadcast his show from the Hartford Convention Center interviewing state political figures and taking listener calls.
Texas School Shooting, Trump Asks DOJ to Investigate FBI-CIA Surveillance of Campaign, Trump-Russia Investigation, U.S.-China Trade Talks, Royal Wedding, Iran Nuclear Plan ‘B,’ Deadpool 2 Film, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Santa Fe High School shooting on Friday that left 10 dead; President Trump asks the DOJ to investigate whether the Obama Administration asked the FBI or CIA to infiltrate the Trump campaign; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the U.S. and China agree not to accelerate a trade war; Saturday’s royal wedding of Prince Harry and American Meghan Markle; Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to unveil “Plan B” for Iran nuclear deal; the film Deadpool 2 tops the weekend box office; Major League Baseball action; and the NBA playoffs 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. There’s a change in morning drive talent at iHeartMedia’s WLIT, Chicago “93.9 LITE FM” as Melissa Forman returns to the station to
host AM drive, replacing Kristina Kage. The company says Forman “will kick off the workday with two hours of commercial free music from 8:00 am to 10:00 am. Melissa’s tradition of informing and entertaining listeners will continue through celebrity interviews, charity involvement, and the unique relationships that she’s built with the people of Chicago.” iHeartMedia Chicago Region president Matt Scarano says, “I am so excited to welcome Melissa Forman back into the iHeartMedia Chicago family. She has a rich history with Chicago and 93.9 LITE FM’s listeners, and we are looking forward to working with her again.”…..iHeartMedia’s KMRQ, Modesto, California “Rock 96.7” adds the Premiere Networks-syndicated “The Woody Show” to the program schedule for morning drive.
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
Jennifer Seelig Promoted to Director of News and Programming for KCBS All News in San Francisco. Seventeen-year KCBS-AM, San Francisco broadcast journalist Jennifer Seelig is named director of news and programming for KCBS
-AM/KFRC-FM, San Francisco. The UC-Davis grad has been serving the Entercom all-news station as acting news director (and prior to that, assistant news director). Entercom regional president and San Francisco 
market manager Susan Larkin states, “I’m incredibly excited that Jennifer will be leading KCBS’s strong team and very important brand. KCBS has a legacy of success serving our community and I’m certain that with Jennifer’s talent and direction, we will take it to the next level.” Seeling comments, “I am honored to lead the KCBS team of award-winning journalists. KCBS is justly celebrated for its incisive news stories and coverage. The station has always provided timely news to the public and we will continue and enhance that tradition. We are committed to providing the best news product to both our on-air listeners and digital audience.”
‘LI News Radio’ Adds KC Armstrong for Evening Show. Long Island-based JVC Media announces that former Howard Stern show cast member KC Armstrong is joining its Long Island news/talk station – WRCN, Riverhead, New York “Long Island
News Radio 103.9 FM” – to host a one-hour, evening program airing at 7:00 pm. LI News Radio operations director Frank Brinka states, “KC will really round out this news/talk staff. Part of what he learned from Howard Stern is total, non-negotiable honesty at all times and it shows in his interview style 
and on-air presentation.” Armstrong will host his show from the station’s window studio at Long Island MacArthur Airport. He comes to this gig after battling through serious health problems. He says, “I had a really bad drinking problem. I had pancreatitis. I had been in and out of the hospital over 30 times. I had bled out one time and almost died.” But he says he’s excited for this opportunity. “I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic, live-and-local radio organization like ‘LI News Radio.’ I am looking forward to bringing out the best in other people on the air. I feel that that’s what my role here is. I know I make a lot of people feel really good. And selfishly, it makes me feel good, too.”
WW1’s Harlan Named ‘Sportscaster of the Year.’ Sports play-by-play pro Kevin Harlan is being named “2017 National Sportscaster of the Year” by the National Sports
Media Hall of Fame. Harlan is Westwood One Sports’ “Monday Night Football” announcer – he’ll be behind the mic for Westwood One’s coverage of the NFC Championship game and for Super Bowl LII. He also currently calls play-by-play for CBS Sports’ coverage of both the NFL and NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. This was his 33rd consecutive season broadcasting the NFL and with his additional role as play-by-play announcer for the NBA on TNT, this also marks his 30th season broadcasting the NBA.
Tom Birch Joins Media Services Group as Director. Radio ratings company founder and station owner Tom Birch is joining Media Services Group as a director, effective February 1. Birch is currently owner of the nine-station Lakes Media company. He’s well known in the radio business as the founder and CEO of Birch/Scarborough Research. Media Services Group managing director Eddie Esserman says, “Tom Birch brings a wealth of industry, financial and market research experience to Media Services Group. He has raised millions of dollars in investment capital, authored numerous 
business and financial plans, was involved in successful radio acquisitions and turnarounds and built a major, industry-changing business. He will be an enormous asset. All of us at Media Services Group are thrilled to have Tom’s experience, perspective and involvement in the industry on our team.” The press release notes that “at its peak in the 1980s, Birch/Scarborough employed more than 1,200 people nationwide and maintained sales offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Dallas. The company interviewed over 100,000 persons per month in 260 markets and its client base included major radio broadcast groups such as Clear Channel, CBS and ABC, national advertisers such as McDonalds, Anheuser-Busch and Delta Airlines and major national advertising agencies such as BBDO, McCann-Erickson and Ogilvy & Mather.”
Edward F. McLaughlin to Be Honored with BFoA Lifetime Achievement Award. Legendary radio syndication executive Edward F. McLaughlin is being named the recipient of the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America. McLaughlin will be honored at the BFoA’s Golden Mike Award dinner on
March 5 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. During his 14-year career leading the ABC Radio Networks, McLaughlin oversaw the acquisition of “American Top 40 with Casey Kasem,” launched “American Country Countdown with Bob Kingsley,” and grew the affiliate base of the Paul 
Harvey programs to some 1,000 stations. In 1987, he formed EFM Media Management and began syndicating the Dr. Dean Edell show. Shortly thereafter, he put KFBK, Sacramento talk host Rush Limbaugh into national syndication, providing the launch pad for Limbaugh’s rise to syndication success. McLaughlin currently is chairman emeritus of the BFoA. He says, “Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the charitable organization that I have believed in and supported for many years means a great deal to me. I am grateful for the generosity of the broadcasters who make it possible for the Broadcasters Foundation to help our colleagues.” BFoA chairman Dan Mason says, “Ed is a visionary who took chances that led broadcasting into uncharted territory and tremendous success. His dedication and leadership of the Broadcasters Foundation helped advance our mission. It is with great pride that we honor his innovation and recognize his years of service.”
‘WKRP in Cincinnati’ Creator Hugh Wilson Dies at 74. Television writer and producer Hugh Wilson – the man who created the classic radio station sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati” – died on Tuesday (1/16) at the age of 74. “Radio’s Best Friend” Art Vuolo tells TALKERS magazine, “What most people don’t know is that Wilson never checked to see if there was a WKRP in the Queen City – and there wasn’t – but there is iHeartMedia’s WKRC. It was widely reported that mail that was addressed simply to: WKRP in Cincinnati went to WKRC! Oddly enough there was a station with the WKRP call letters at the time – in Dallas, Georgia.”
Trump DACA Policy-‘Shithole’ Controversy, Government Shutdown Threat, Trump-Russia Investigation/Bannon Subpoenas, Trump-Acosta Incident, North Korea Nuclear Threats, California Captive Kids Case, Dow Hits 26,000, Cryptocurrency Value, Intense Flu Season, NFL Playoffs, and NBA Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/16). The Trump Administration’s Reversal of the Obama DACA policy and the related controversy over President Trump’s alleged use of the word “shithole” during a cabinet meeting; the threat of a federal government shutdown; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents, and the subpoenas issued to former White House adviser Stephen K. Bannon; President Trump kicks CNN’s Jim Acosta out of presser after Acosta’s aggressive questioning; the North Korean nuclear threat; the case of 13 California children held in prison-like conditions by their parents; the Dow Jones industrial average tops 26,000; the fluctuating value of cryptocurrencies; the intense strain of influenza sweeping the U.S.; the NFL playoffs, and NBA action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
‘The Infinite Dial’ Expands to Canada. The annual radio study from Triton Digital and Edison Research titled “The Infinite Dial” is expanding into Canada. The firms say that the study is currently being fielded using a telephone survey representative of all Canadians that “will provide a comprehensive look at the digital media consumption habits of Canadian consumers, including time spent with digital audio, podcasts, smart speakers, social media, video, mobile, and more.” The study was launched to track
Americans’ use of audio back in 1998. Edison Research and Triton Digital expanded the study outside of the U.S. for the first time last year with the unveiling of ‘Infinite Dial Australia’ in June. Edison SVP Tom Webster comments, “The ‘Infinite Dial’ studies explore the penetration of online audio and other digital media in a way that no other study does. A wide audience across the world, including broadcasters, ad agencies, and the financial community at large, have come to rely on the insights that the ‘Infinite Dial’ provides year after year. With data derived using the highest-quality research standards, we are proud to be expanding our insights to Canada in 2018, in addition to our parallel work in the U.S. and Australia.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Nationally syndicated, ‘Z100’ New York-based morning radio star Elvis Duran is
being inducted into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame. The induction will take place at the “Achievement in Broadcasting Dinner” on April 9 as part of the NAB Show…..Entercom’s adult contemporary KSWD, Seattle “94.1 The Sound” announces that Seattle radio pro John Fisher is its new morning show host. 
Entercom Seattle SVP and market manager Jack Hutchison says, “We couldn’t be more excited to announce John Fisher as the inaugural host of mornings on ‘94.1 The Sound.’ With his 20-plus year relationship with the Seattle community, John is morning radio royalty to the Puget Sound.” Fisher first joined Entercom in 1992 as morning host for “103.7 The Mountain” (KMTT), a role he held for over 20 years. Fisher served with Hubbard’s KRWM “Warm 106.9” for three years.
Friday, January 12, 2018
Most Talk Radio Programmers are Avoiding Use of the Term “Shithole” in Wake of Presidential Sh*tstorm. Once again, President Donald J. Trump – for better or 
worse – has shaken up the standards of traditional broadcasting and journalism. This time, with his controversial remark about immigration using the term “shithole” to describe countries from which he considers immigration particularly undesirable. The controversial racist aspect of this story notwithstanding, FCC-regulated broadcasters have had to make the quick decision to directly utter the term on the airwaves or buffer it with less offensive and non-potentially rule-breaking words. This decision has been made more difficult by the fact that many traditional, so-called mainstream cable outlets and online/print news media have chosen to use the word as the President said it. In conversations around the industry this morning TALKERS has learned that the prevailing tact on terrestrial talk 
radio has been NOT to use the word directly. Cumulus Media/Westwood One EVP Mike McVay tells TALKERS, “Despite cable television taking great joy in saying the ‘S’ word on TV, we are not saying the actual word on over the air radio. We recognize it as one of the seven words we cannot say. That has not 
stopped us from using it on our digital platforms.” Salem Radio Network senior VP, Phil Boyce says, “The word ‘shit’ is one of the FCC-banned words and our hosts should never use it, no matter if the president did or didn’t. My morning guy in Los Angeles, Brian Whitman, will be using the word “BLANK hole.” We want our shows to be safe for the whole family. No need to have listeners turn off the radio because kids are in the car.” Bold Gold Media Group CEO Vince Benedetto – owner of a number of stations in Pennsylvania and upstate New York – adds, “We haven’t changed our policy – 
we still do not say anything on air that violates George Carlin’s ‘Seven words you can’t say on television.'” ABC Radio VP/GM Steve Jones tells TALKERS, “ABC News Radio anchors and reporters are not speaking that word on air as it could be considered an FCC violation and it also might offend 
local community standards. Instead, we are referring to the phrase as an ‘expletive’ or ‘profanity.’ We have 1,650 affiliates and the majority use our ABC ‘Newscall’ service – which provides on-demand audio of reporters and actualities. We are more permissive in what we provide on that service because it is the decision of the station whether to run the audio – whereas as we control the newscast content and therefore have unilateral decision-making. If audio existed of any president using a profanity, we would put it on ‘Newscall’ and let stations decide its usage. If we determined language was so newsworthy we felt obligated to include it in a newscast, we would probably warn stations in advance. But, that’s hard to effectively control and I don’t recall it being done in many years.” Although the consensus is to avoid using the word directly on the airwaves, not everyone in talk radio fully agrees that the way 
to go. Nationally-famous, station owner/operator (and industry maverick) Michael Zwerling of KSCO/KOME, Santa Cruz tells TALKERS that he will use the word on his own show (“The Saturday Special”) but respects the rights of his air personalities to make their own decisions, “My position is to use the word on the air since it is a bona fide news story – but I just checked with the ‘Good Morning Monterey Bay’ staff [the station’s morning show] and was told they opted to say ‘s-hole’ and to play the Haitian national anthem.” Zwerling continues, “Trump apparently has denied using that word (which is one of my favorites) but even if he was falsely accused of using it by the news media almost universally out to get him – it has nonetheless become a legitimate news story and therefore would fall into my 
category of okay to use on the air. Besides, it moves our industry in the direction of parity with the ‘paid’ services that have been and are allowed to use profanity with impunity!” Media consultant/TALKERS columnist/and RT America host Holland Cooke says, “It is a big topic with heavy phones at my client stations 
this morning. My advice: Ask listeners, ‘If he said that word, should we, here on the radio?'” TALKERS legal editor and Bentley University law professor Steven JJ Weisman says, “It is my opinion that the use of the word ‘shithole’ in the context of discussing the president’s comments would be allowed.” For Weisman’s full comments, please read the story below.
Steve Weisman’s Legal Take on Terrestrial Radio’s Use of Term “Shithole.” TALKERS legal editor Steve Weisman offers his educated view on the terrestrial radio “shithole” issue prompted by President Donald J. Trump’s use of the term. To read the piece in its entirety, please click here.
Save the Date! Talkers 2018 Set for Friday, June 8, 2018 in New York City. The editorial board of TALKERS magazine is pleased to announce the date and location of the 21st annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important national convention. Titled TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead!, the power-packed, one-day event will take place on Friday, June 8, 2018 at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater located in the colorful Chelsea district of Manhattan in New York City. This marks the second year in a row that the convention will be held at this very popular venue. The conference will feature top speakers from all aspects of the spoken-word media industry with a focus on talk radio and its role in the new digital age and dawn of a rapidly accelerating era. This will include programming, sales, marketing, and technology – the full spectrum of concerns, challenges and opportunities facing the modern day talk broadcaster and broadcasting organization. It will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats, and exhibits of the latest services and equipment available to broadcasting professionals. The event will also provide its attendees with unparalleled networking opportunities and social mixers including breakfast, lunch and a closing cocktail reception. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “As has always been the case with this annual gathering, all the way back to its days as ‘The New Media Seminar,’ TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! will focus on the future. There is no doubt about it; we are at the dawn of an exciting new era – full of both daunting challenges and fabulous opportunities. Good things happen at this convention. We pack three days’ worth of content and activity into one dynamic day and comfortable space. It is not to be missed!” Complete agenda and hotel details will be posted in the coming days and weeks. As is customary with TALKERS conventions, TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! is only open to members of the professional media industry and communications students. Because seating is limited and the event has been an early sellout every year since the 1990s, in order to maintain this policy, non-refundable registrations can only be purchased via telephone with a credit card. Full registration, including all functions, meals, and refreshments costs $329 per person. However, an early bird special ($279 per person) is available for those who register before 5:00 pm ET on Friday, February 2. To register or obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.
Gwiazdon Goes to Beasley Media Group Las Vegas as VP/MM. Most recently vice president and market manager of Midwest Communications’ Nashville adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9”; adult hits WCJK “96.3 Jack FM”; and CHR WNFN “i106.7,” Dennis Gwiazdon began similar duties yesterday (1/11) for Beasley Media Group Las Vegas. According to Beasley Media Group executive vice president and chief operating officer Brian Beasley, “It is a privilege to welcome Dennis to the Beasley Media Group family. His proven track record and leadership skills are the perfect fit for our Las Vegas cluster as we continue to grow and expand our business in the market.” Gwiazdon, who was president of the Nashville Area Radio Association, states, “I am absolutely thrilled about joining the Beasley team. There is tremendous potential for us in Las Vegas and I’m grateful [to be given] the opportunity to make a difference.” Prior to his Nashville duties, Gwiazdon was president of San Diego-based Sales Insights. He previously held the vice president/general manager title at Seattle’s KRWM; San
Diego’s KGB-FM and KPOP-AM; San Diego’s KMCG and KXGL; and Salt Lake City’s KKAT. With their Nielsen Audio December 2017 6+ AQH share and market rank in parentheses, Beasley Media Group’s Las Vegas cluster includes classic hits-oldies KKLZ “96.3 70s, 80s, and More” (6.3, #2); urban-rhythmic oldies KOAS “Old School 105.7” (4.0, #6); country KCYE “102.7 The Coyote” (3.7, #9); hot AC KVGS “Star 107.9” (2.8, #15); news/talk KDWN “AM 720” (.7, #26); and KCYE-HD2, which did not appear in the December 2017 sweep. The Las Vegas market leader is iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE “Sunny 106.5” (10.6, 6+), while Midwest Nashville’s WJXA “Mix” is on top (6+) with a 9.9.
WBUR, Reddit Debut “Endless Thread.” That’s the name of the weekly Ben Brock Johnson-hosted podcast done in partnership with Boston University-owned news/talk WBUR and Reddit, “the front page of the internet.” Starting today (1/12), weekly installments will be available every Friday to stream or download. According to Johnson, “Reddit is one of the most formidable communities online. Its lifeblood is people from all over the world sharing and organizing around every imaginable topic, making it an incredibly valuable resource for anyone trying to understand our world. As a journalist, I’ve been fascinated by Reddit for years, but I’ve also become an avid ‘redditor.’ I’m always surprised at what a mystery Reddit is to people who don’t use it. I’m looking forward to solving that mystery for the uninitiated, and helping ‘redditors’ share their incredible, real life stories with the world.” Reddit creative development manager Michael Pope remarks, “Reddit is home to the most authentic conversations on the internet and we know there is a massive opportunity to host thoughtful conversations about these stories in audio form. As one of the leading NPR affiliates in the country, we can’t wait to see what happens when we pair the production polish and talent at WBUR with the most compelling stories online.” The first episode, “No No No No Yes,” explores harrowing tales through first-hand interviews with ‘redditors’ who lived to tell their stories.
TALKERS News Notes. After a brief hiatus from a national platform, Dave Ross returns next Monday (1/15) with a daily, 90-second, CBS News Radio commentary, originally scheduled for a February 5 start date. Heard 
weekdays (“Seattle’s Morning News with Dave Ross”) on Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM, Ross is a five-time Edward R. Murrow award winner for best writing … This time next month (2/12), previous morning host of St. Louis hot AC KYKY “Y-98” Guy
Phillips begins doing afternoons at news/talk KTRS “Big 550 The Talk of STL”; Julie Buck will be his co-host … Five Entercom Chicago stations – sports talk WSCR “670 The Score,” all-news WBBM-AM, CHR WBBM-FM “B-96,” triple A WXRT “93 XRT,” and country WUSN “US-99” – will be broadcasting from this year’s “Cubs Convention” today (1/12), tomorrow (Saturday, 1/13), and Sunday (1/14). Entercom Chicago senior vice president/market manager Jimmy de Castro comments, “We look forward to this event where 
our brands can interact with fellow Chicago Cubs fans. We are grateful for our continued partnership with the Chicago Cubs organization as the exclusive radio home of the Chicago Cubs.” This weekend’s event is taking place at Chicago’s Sheraton Grand Hotel. WSCR continues as the team’s radio flagship ….. Former Tribune Broadcasting White House correspondent and Long Island television news anchor/reporter Drew Scott joins JVC Media news/talk WRCN “Long Island News Radio 103.9” as a reporter. JVC Media president/CEO John Caracciolo comments, “Having someone like Drew is a complete win for us. His job will be to use the contact list he has developed over the years to help us open doors; get the story; and get the info Long Islanders need and want. This is live, local and hometown radio the way it is supposed to be.” WRCN operations director Frank Brinka notes, “Drew is a great addition to our staff. His wealth of news reporting and knowledge of the Long Island landscape will be an asset to the station. He will deliver a wealth of information to our listening audience.” Scott adds, “I am thrilled to be part of such a dynamic, live and local radio news organization. I am looking forward to helping ‘LI News Radio’ and JVC continue to 
grow and prosper.” ….. The flagship of MLB’s Minnesota Twins from 1961 – 2006, Entercom Minneapolis’ WCCO “News Radio 830,” returns in that capacity this year. The first of its 15-game
spring training broadcast schedule will be (Thursday) February 22 when the Twins play the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. Cory Provus, Dan Gladden, and Kris Atteberry comprise WCCO’s on-air team ….. Launching on SiriusXM next Wednesday (1/17) is “Barstool Radio,” the 24/7 channel for Barstool’s unfiltered approach to covering sports, men’s lifestyle, and popular culture. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy remarks, “We are excited to launch our Barstool channel. It has been a wild ride to get to this point and this is another big step in our plan for total world domination.” SiriusXM senior vice president of sports programming Steve Cohen comments, “In today’s crowded media landscape, Barstool stands out as a unique and compelling voice. Live radio thrives on the kind of spontaneous and entertaining content that Barstool delivers every day. We don’t know what they are going to say next, but Barstool Radio on SiriusXM will be the place to hear it live and talk about it.” Weekday call-in shows will include: “The Barstool Radio Show” with Portnoy and Kevin “KFC” Clancy (4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, ET); “The Heartland Radio Show” with former NFL punter Pat McAfee (10:00 am -1:00 pm, ET); and “The Evening Yak” with Dan “Big Cat” Katz (6:00 pm – 7:00 pm, ET). Barstool Radio will be on SiriusXM’s “Power 85” and on the SiriusXM app ….. For over three weeks, Alpha Media Bakersfield (California) news/talk KNZR AM & FM “News-Talk-Dodgers,” mainstream CHR KLLY “Energy 95.3,” and urban-rhythmic oldies KKBB “Groove 99.3” collected food and water for fire victims in Ventura and Santa Barbara. KLLY program director Danny Hill comments, “I am very proud of my community and I love the support they always show. Bakersfield constantly gives to others and is at the forefront of a lot of charity events.” A local veterans chapter helped to deliver the supplies.
British Talk Show Host and TalkersRadio Personality Graham Mack Forced to Apologize for On Air Statement that PM Theresa May “Has No Balls.” It is always fascinating to compare and contrast American radio with broadcasting in other English-speaking countries when it comes to tolerance, freedom of speech and political controversy. Well-known English talk show host Graham Mack, host of the popular BOB-FM, Herfordshire (greater London) breakfast show got himself into a sticky situation on Wednesday (1/10) by boldly stating that British Prime Minister Theresa May “has no balls.” According to a report in the Hertfordshire Mercury, The comment came on yesterday’s (January 10) breakfast show during a lengthy rant about May’s recent Cabinet reshuffle, in which he also claimed that she was the “weakest Prime Minister” the country had ever seen. Mack went on to berate the reshuffle, saying that not enough women and ethnic minority MPs had been promoted to justify promises made by the Prime Minister in the preceding days. However, the maverick radio host appeared to backtrack on his claims this morning (January 11), telling listeners that he had to “correct” his comments. Mr. Mack said that although his remark about Mrs. May’s lack of balls was “anatomically correct,” he should not have made it. He also clarified that he could not be sure that May was the weakest Prime Minister the country had ever seen, as Clement Attlee or William the Younger could conceivably be weaker. In a statement, Mr. Mack said: “We received a serious complaint yesterday about what I’d said on the air. “Someone in a very senior position told me to make an apology. “I cannot reveal who made the complaint. The seriousness of the complaint did take me by surprise because a regular listener would realise that I take a swipe at all politicians regardless of which political party they represent.” Mr. Mack concluded his on-air correction by issuing an apology directly to the Prime Minister, saying that as the leader of the nation she must be respected. To listen to the segment of the program that got Graham Mack in trouble, please click here. Graham Mack also hosts “London Calling” a weekly program on TalkersRadio. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison describes Mack as “one of the best radio talk show aahosts in the English-speaking world.”
iHeartMedia, MoviePass Announce Media Partnership. The agreement includes a marketing campaign across
iHeartMedia’s multiplatform network to help build further brand awareness of MoviePass and target new subscribers in select United States metros. In addition, iHeartMedia will be an authorized reseller of ad inventory across the MoviePass website and mobile app. According to iHeartMedia Ventures president Joe Robinson, “We have the capability to build significant brand awareness for MoviePass through our unparalleled scale and reach of more than 270 million monthly listeners across the country and our multiplatform assets. We see a unique opportunity with MoviePass, and its ability to understand and analyze audience trends and behavior which is a great asset for our advertisers, especially those looking to further engage with millions of movie-goers.” MoviePass chief executive officer Mitch Lowe comments, “We expect that our partnership with iHeartMedia will fuel our continued growth by targeting more profitable subscribers in low-cost markets, while also opening up a new revenue stream with digital advertising. We also expect that this relationship will be beneficial to movie exhibitors because we hope to drive more traffic into theaters and to advertisers through our strong working intelligence on the preferences and behaviors of a substantial amount of movie-goers. Our subscribers are going to twice as many movies a month as other consumers and are buying one in every 50 movie tickets in the U.S.” MoviePass launched its current $9.95 per month subscription plan this past August.
Wynter Boosted to iHM EVP Urban/Hip-Hop. Los Angeles urban contemporary KRRL “Real 92.3” program director Doc Wynter 
adds corporate iHeartMedia duties as executive vice president urban/hip-hop. President/chief operating officer/chief financial officer Rich Bressler states, “No one understands urban and hip-hop programming like Doc. We are thrilled that he is expanding his role leading iHeartMedia’s programming strategy for those key formats. He has been instrumental in launching several of our urban and hip-hop stations nationwide and we’re excited for him to be even more hands-on with all of our urban brands in our over 150 markets.” Wynter adds, “Urban radio has been my passion for as long as I can remember. Having worked with iHeartMedia for almost three decades, I know we have some of the best programmers and on-air personalities in radio. I can’t wait to help our region and market presidents provide their local urban and hip-hop music fans with one-of-a-kind listening experiences that only a company like iHeartMedia can create.” In this newly-created position, Wynter – most recently the company’s senior vice president of urban programming/urban brand manager – will report to chief programming officer Tom Poleman. Wynter began overseeing the company’s urban radio stations in late-1999 and launched several iHeartMedia brands such as “Power 105.1 FM” in New York City (on WWPR); “Real 92.3” in Los Angeles (on KRRL); “V101.5” in Jacksonville (on WSOL); and “The Beat” in various cities.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. After doing four years of night duty on iHeartMedia Los Angeles mainstream CHR KIIS “102.7 Kiss-FM,” Freddy Rivera transfers to co-owned Dallas hot AC KDMX “102.9 Now” for afternoon drive (2:00 pm – 7:00 pm). KDMX program director Jay Shannon comments, “Freddy is an outstanding 
on-air talent and we are very fortunate to add him to our lineup. Freddy is very much looking forward to calling DFW his home.” Rivera, who starts at KDMX in a little over three weeks (2/5), notes, “I am very excited to write the next chapter in my radio career with ‘102.9 Now.’ I have heard so much about the food, nightlife, and community – I can’t wait to jump right in.” Los Angeles-born/Inland Empire-raised Rivera began his radio career as an intern for former “Kiss-FM” wakeup talent Rick Dees and worked on-air at Riverside-Bernardino-Ontario rhythmic CHR KGGI ….. Changes at Merlin Media-owned/Cumulus Media-operated alternative WKQX, Chicago find morning driver Brian Phillips handling mornings by himself as his former co-host – Lou Lombardo – segues to evenings. In addition, Lombardo adds “digital content captain” duties. Former WKQX evening talent “Marconi” left the station about two weeks ago ….. Two-year KMLE, Phoenix morning show host Chris Matthews departs the Entercom country outlet, but Nina D and producer “Badger Gabe” remain in place ….. Steve Guittari departs Cumulus Media Indianapolis; 
Guittari was operations manager of the cluster and program director of the company’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” ….. Also in the “Circle City,” according to the Indianapolis Business Journal, iHeartMedia Indianapolis sports talk WNDE pulls the plug on the Dave “Gunner” Gunn and Don Stuck-hosted morning show “Flagrant Foul.” Gunn (3:00 pm – 7:00 pm) and Stuck (7:00 pm – 10:00 pm) continue though on classic rock sibling WFBQ “Q-95.” Clay Travis’ syndicated “Outkick the Coverage” returns to WNDE’s morning drive slot ….. Added to the weekend lineup of iHeartMedia-owned New York City rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 KTU” is Astra – who formerly did afternoon drive on cross-town mainstream CHR WBMP “Amp 92.3.”
Odom Out at WRXQ. The evening talent on Coal City, Illinois-licensed WRXQ “100.7 Q-Rock,” Ray “Crazy Ray” Odom, is pink-slipped by the Alpha Media station for remarks he made on CNBC’s “The Profit.” On a promo for that cable television show, Odom said, “I’m a sexist, egotistical, racist pig on the radio.” Alpha Media market manager Brian 
Foster notes, “We do not condone the views he expressed in the program. The feelings portrayed are that of his own and not of Alpha Media or ‘Q-Rock.’ After an internal review, we have decided to cut ties.” Odom is co-owner of Rayjus Outdoors, but he was placed on leave from that Morris, Illinois business, the subject of Marcus Lamonis-hosted “The Profit,” which offers financial help to struggling businesses. Lamonis acknowledges that Odom had, “a side job. I thought it may be a distraction, but I didn’t realize that the focus of it was to demonize minorities and degrade women.” Odom confirmed the firing, saying he worked hard to keep his radio persona separate from his business. “What I said got taken out of context completely – now I don’t have a radio job over it.” A Rayjus statement on Facebook reads, “Unfortunately, we cannot allow these statements to go unchecked. While an integral part of our organization, Ray will be taking a leave of absence to spend time with his family and reflect on what is in the best interest of his family and company.” Regarding what he has said on radio, Odom tells the (Joliet, Illinois) Herald-News, “Everybody has a different sense of what is funny and not funny.”
Entravision Expands La Suavecita. The Grupero/Cumbia La Suavecita format will be heard in 11 more markets, in addition to its Los Angeles area simulcast of KSSE, KSSC, & KSSD. Entravision president and chief operating officer Jeffery Liberman remarks, “Since its launch a year ago, La Suavecita has built an incredible following of loyal listeners and received strong advertising support in Los Angeles. We are excited to share this unique and exciting format with listeners in 11 new markets and to bring a powerhouse line-up of some of the most recognized on-air personalities in radio to La Suavecita. Los Angeles is the largest Hispanic radio market in the U.S. We believe our format, programming, and talent changes will allow us to better connect with our audiences, and in turn, our advertisers with their customers. La Suavecita is backed by a strong slate of on-air personalities that will drive engagement across our radio and digital platforms.” Coinciding with the national rollout of the La Suavecita format, El Genio will be heard 4:00 am – 10:00 am; “Piolin” (Eddie Sotelo) 10:00 am – 2:00 pm; Armida y La Flaka 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm; and Mayra 7:00 pm -12:00 midnight. Targeting women 25 – 49 and adults 25 – 54, La Suavecita surfaces in Houston (KGOL); Phoenix (KVVA and KDVA); Denver (KJMN and KMXA); Sacramento (KXSE); Las Vegas (KRRN); McAllen (KNVO); El Paso (KINT-FM); Stockton (KTSE); Modesto (KCVR); Palm Springs, California (KLOB); and El Centro, California (KSEH).
Cutbacks at Dick Broadcasting’s Three New Clusters. Back in September, Dick Broadcasting announced it would acquire Alpha Media’s 18 stations and two translators in Kinston-New Bern-Jacksonville (North Carolina); Myrtle Beach (South Carolina); and Savannah (Georgia) for $19.5 million. Staffing cuts have been made in all three markets. Exiting WXQR “Rock 105,” Kinston-New Bern-Jacksonville are program director/afternoon talent Tina Smash and night host Ryan Daniels. Departures at the Myrtle Beach cluster include production director/WXYY “G-100.1” afternoon driver Mark ‘Shark’ Eddis and WFXH “Rock 106.1,” Hilton Head Island assistant program director/night talent Ryan Koch. The business manager position has been eliminated in the three aforementioned markets.
AC Augments Audience in Philly, Tampa, Dallas
By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS
LOS ANGELES — Just over two weeks after Christmas and nine days into the new year, admittedly, doesn’t provide much of a sample to gauge an industry “trend.”
At the very least though, it is worth noting three interesting top 20 market developments that contain a common thread.
The last time a major market station transitioned to adult contemporary was in April 2016, when iHeartMedia San Francisco’s urban-rhythmic oldies KISQ became “The Breeze.
Now that the all-Christmas music has come to an end, however, there are three new players under the AC banner.
Thursday, August 4, 2016
iHeartMedia Second Quarter Net Revenue Rises 1.2%. That figure is based on net revenue of $1.6 billion during Q2 of 2016, compared to the same period in 2015 and that is for the whole company. Separating the radio and digital business from the outdoor segment, iHeartMedia reports an increase of 3.2% in net revenue due in large part to live events, the traffic and weather services, broadcast and digital advertising, as well as the Premiere Networks syndication segment, especially news/talk.
Townsquare Media Reports Q2 Financials; Radio Segment Up 3.5%. The company reports on its two business segments – Local Marketing Solutions, which includes radio plus its digital products, and Entertainment, which provides live events and music and lifestyle content. During Q2, Local Marketing Solutions pro forma net 
revenue increased $2.9 million, or 3.5%, to $86.7 million (including political). For the first half of 2016, Local Marketing Solutions net revenue increased $8.8 million, or 5.8%, to $161.9 million (including political). Townsquare Media chairman and
CEO Steven Price says, “We are pleased to report solid results for the first half of 2016, with pro forma net revenue and Adjusted EBITDA increasing approximately 4% over the prior year, with strength in our Local Marketing Solutions segment. In the second quarter, we delivered net revenue growth of 16.7% over the prior year. On a pro forma basis, net revenue increased 2.1%, which was in line with our expectations, and Adjusted EBITDA increased 4.1%, which exceeded our guidance. In addition, we were able to strengthen our balance sheet through the repurchase of $17 million of Unsecured Senior Notes.”
Saga Communications Reports Net Revenue Up 6.1%. That figure – comparing Q2 of 2016 with the same period a year ago – is based on net revenue of $36.4 million for the whole company. The Saga
Communications radio division’s net revenue mirrors that at +6.1% on net revenue of $30.8 million. However, on a pro forma basis, the radio net revenue dipped 1.7%. Saga notes that free cash flow increased 15.6% to $6.5 million. Operating Income increased 12.6% to $8.4 million. Station operating expense increased 4.6% to $25.4 million (station operating expense includes depreciation and amortization attributable to the stations). Same Station net revenue increased 0.8% to $34.2 million and same station operating expense was flat at $24.0 million. Net income for the period was $4.8 million ($0.82 per fully diluted share compared to $0.77 for the same period last year).
Radio One Delivers Positive Second Quarter; Net Revenue Up 2.4%, But Radio Flat. That 2.4% is for the company as a whole, for which net revenue was approximately $122.7 million compared to the same period in 
2015. Station operating income was approximately $48.9 million, an increase of 5.5%. Radio One breaks its net revenue report into six categories: Radio Advertising, Political Advertising, Digital Advertising, Cable Television Advertising, Cable Television Affiliate Fees, and Event Revenues & Other. The company says, “Net revenues from our radio broadcasting segment decreased 0.2% for the quarter ended June 30, 2016, versus the same period in 2015. We experienced net revenue growth in eight of our radio markets (most significantly in Washington D.C., Charlotte and Cleveland); however, this growth was offset by declines in other markets (with Columbus, Philadelphia, Houston and Detroit experiencing the most significant declines). Reach Media’s net revenues increased 2.8% in the second quarter of 2016, compared to the same period in 2015.”
Nashville Sports Personality George Plaster Exits ‘102.5 The Game’ for University Gig. After a Nashville sports media career that’s spanned 30-plus years, WPRT “102.5 The Game” afternoon drive sports talk
radio host George Plaster is leaving the station to take the position of associate athletics director for marketing at Nashville’s Belmont University. The Tennessean reports that Plaster’s friend Scott Corley, athletics director at the school, approached him about the position and Plaster was intrigued with the notion. Over time he became very interested and told the paper, “It’s probably the one scenario that I would’ve considered leaving radio.” Plaster joined Bud Walters’-owned WPRT in 2011 after exiting Cumulus Media’s crosstown WGFX “104.5 The Zone.”
Nielsen Audio Releases Third Round of July 2016 PPM Data. The third of four rounds of July 2016 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Antonio, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Kansas City, Orlando, and Columbus. The June 2016 survey period covered June 16 through July 13. You can find the complete 6+ ratings numbers from subscribing stations here. Additionally, TALKERS/RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Twelve Takeaways” from this group on the main page of our sister publication here
JVC Drops Classic Hits Simulcast in Gainesville; Launches News/Talk Format on WYGC. The classic hits will be heard on JVC Media’s WXJZ, Gainesville “WOW 100.9” and WYGC, licensed to High Springs (northeast of Gainesville) flips to news/talk as “104.9 The Talk of Gainesville.” The company says the station will air from its “downtown Gainesville studios with non-stop local news, weather, and traffic in addition to the legendary ‘Imus in the Morning’ and FOX News’ Brian Kilmeade.” WYGC program director and JVC Media VP Matthew Goldapper says, “‘104.9 The Talk of Gainesville’ will be locally programmed to allow our community to discuss issues important to Gainesville residents.”
The Presidential Race, US Cash Payment to Iran, Deadly London Knife Attacks, Wikileaks-Benghazi Emails, Black Lives Matter Movement, Rio Olympics Troubles, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/3). The activities of presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump; the controversy over the US’ payment of $400 million to Iran the day Americans were released from Iran; the deadly knife attack in London that left several wounded and one woman dead; the claim by Wikileaks’ Julian Assange that emails indicate the U.S. was arming jihadists in Syria via Benghazi; the Black Lives Matter movement; the problems facing Rio De Janeiro as it prepares for the Olympic opening ceremony; 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.
Tom Arnold’s ‘100% Honest. Pretty Much’ Launches from PodcastOne. Hollywood’s Tom Arnold is joining the PodcastOne platform with his new podcast, “Tom Arnold. 100% Honest. Pretty Much.” PodcastOne 
says the show will cover everything from his career, to life as a husband and father of two, followed by an interview each episode, “as some of the funniest people around bring laughter and something extremely embarrassing about themselves to reveal to the audience.” PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz says, “Tom has shared his humor and entertainment with the world for decades, and it’s great to now bring him to the podcast world. It’s the perfect platform to let loose, hang out and have a great time – with all his fans.”
Radio One and Edison Research to Release Race Relations Study Results. Urban media company Radio One says it engaged Edison Research to conduct the study into the “true state of race relations in this country.” The results will be revealed on Friday (8/4 at 11:00 am ET via conference call) and Radio One teases
that a key finding is “Black and White Americans are more closely aligned than previously thought on improving race relations in the country and share broad agreement on practical solutions.” Radio One commissioned the study “on the heels of outrage, protests and emotional responses after the shooting of two black men by police officers in Louisiana and Minnesota and the subsequent shooting of five police officers in Dallas (study fielded prior to Baton Rouge police shooting).
Odds & Sods. This report in from the Los Angeles base of The New Normal, home of Tom Leykis’ digitally distributed program: the special wine made just for Leykis and his fans is almost gone. Leykis tells TALKERS
magazine that they surpassed 1,000 bottles sold of the 2014 Pedal to the Metal Santa Ynez Valley Syrah. Sales will end August 31 and they will likely have sold all 120 cases by that date. Leykis has another money-making event on the horizon. The show has rented the biggest suite at Dodger Stadium – holds 70 – for an upcoming game and has sold it out. Tickets range in price from $299 – $349. The show grossed $21,000…..DirecTV’s Rich Eisen will report from Canton, Ohio during this week’s Pro Football Hall of Fame festivities. He’ll broadcast live today and tomorrow with guests including: Brett Favre, Kevin Greene, Orlando Pace, Eddie DeBartolo, and Tony Dungy.
Monday, May 16, 2016
Cooke: Think Radio Is Challenged? Try TV. Radio consultant Holland Cooke writes today about the challenges facing not just radio but TV, as well. For those who thought that digital technology and consolidation is only affecting radio and newspapers, new statistics show TV is now reeling. Cord-cutting is the bane of the TV biz. Cooke reports that 60% of American homes have Internet-connected TVs and more than half of US households subscribe to an on-demand video service. And radio’s ability to be local remains its saving grace. At this Friday’s TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations conference at Hofstra University on Long Island, Cooke will present, “Talk Media: The Next Generation,” during which Cooke will present advice for news/talk operators. Read more here.
Michael Graham Named MediaDC Creative Director. Joining MediaDC – parent company of Washington Examiner, The Weekly Standard, and Red Alert Politics – is WYAY, Atlanta “NewsRadio 106.7” late morning personality Michael Graham. He is named to the newly created position of
creative director. The company calls it “part of an expansion of multi-media and social media projects.” MediaDC says Graham also helped create the award-winning Boston Herald Radio online platform, has guest-hosted for Glenn Beck and Laura Ingraham, and also hosts the popular Weekly Standard podcasts. MediaDC president and COO Stephen Sparks says, “We’re creating terrific content that should be made more available, and Michael will help us make that happen.”
JVC Media’s ‘LI News Radio’ to Address Political Corruption. In an effort to give voice to Long Island residents in the wake of recent convictions of New York politicians on various corruption charges, JVC Media’s news/talk WRCN, Riverhead, New York “LI News Radio” is presenting the “Citizens State of Suffolk County” this Thursday (5/19). From 12:00 noon to 6:00 pm, “LI News Radio” will turn over its airwaves to the residents of Suffolk County. They will have the opportunity to “sound off on issues, politics and the recent and constant corruption from our elected officials.” JVC Broadcasting VP of news operations Matt Goldapper says, “103.9 LI News Radio’s phones and email have been inundated by residents who are disgusted and need to vent, they are tired of not having their voice heard and politicians not listening to their concerns. This is why we created LI News Radio.” Station morning host Jay Oliver adds, “Suffolk County residents are done with all the corruption and abuse of power by their elected officials and they want them to know it.” The six-hour open phones program will allow “local leaders, community residents and concerned citizens” to be heard.
Livestream Set to Video Stream TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations Live on Talkers.com. The 19th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running and most important national convention is an early sellout but don’t despair – the entire event will be video streamed live on Talkers.com. The streaming will be provided by Livestream, the leader in providing video streaming services to the broadcasting industry. Livestream, a sponsor of the event, will also be exhibiting their services in the technology display area of the conference. Livestream helps broadcasters monetize their content and reach their audience wherever they are. Whether they are syndicating their primary content, looking to broadcast live on their website/apps, or producing ancillary content for their online viewers, Livestream has the tools to make it as easy as possible. Viewers can watch on any device, including desktops, tablets, mobile devices, and Roku-connected TVs. TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey states, “This is the first time we have chosen to actually broadcast video of this event live on the internet. We are delighted to be associated with the pros at Livestream on this project. Now thousands of people around the world will be able to watch the TALKERS convention while it’s happening. For more information about Livestream, please click on www.Livestream.com. For the full convention agenda, please click here.
iHeartMedia and Debt Holders Still Negotiating. Today (5/16) is the day the temporary restraining order against certain of the company’s debt holders’ notices of default expires, but given the recent SEC filings by iHeartMedia and said creditors, both sides are still working to find a compromise. Should they not come to terms, the two sides will be back in court arguing over whether iHeartMedia’s transfer of Clear Channel Outdoor stock to its own Broader Media Inc. violated the existing debt covenants. If the court were to find iHeartMedia violated those terms, as much as $6 billion in debt could come due within 60 days, likely triggering bankruptcy. Clearly, both sides want to avoid that scenario. This story is very fluid as more action on the part of the company and its creditors is expected today.
WOWO, Fort Wayne Releases 90th Anniversary Station History in Podcast Format. The venerable Fort Wayne news/talk station celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2015, a milestone for which it created a two-and-a-half hour audio history of its operation. Now, the station is making the documentary available for download. Program director Ryan Wrecker says, “We look back at the past 90 years of WOWO Radio history, along with some never-before-heard pieces of audio and memorable moments that made the station legendary.”
Odds & Sods. At ABC News Radio, Scott Goldberg is named midday anchor on the Information Network.
Goldberg assumes the position formerly held by Cheri Preston, who left the midday daypart to become morning drive anchor on the Information Network…..In San Antonio, Geoff Sheen exits iHeartMedia’s KTKR-AM “Ticket 760” where he was afternoon drive personality. In another case of iHeartMedia’s Austin and San Antonio stations sharing staff and programming, KTKR will air sister sports talker KVET-AM, Austin’s afternoon show, “The Sports Buffet” with hosts Craig Way and Rod Babers.
The Presidential Race, Iran Nuclear Ambitions, April Global Temp Record-Global Warming, Woody Allen Allegations, Venezuela Unrest, Facebook Anti-Conservative Allegations, NBA and NHL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The activities of the candidates for president; concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s public allegations on Sunday that Iran intends to attack Israel; global temperature data indicating April was the warmest April on record; renewed Woody Allen child molestation allegations as his new film debuts at the Cannes Film Festival; political and economic unrest in Venezuela; Facebook responds to charges it has tweaked its trending stories to avoid pro-conservative issues; and the NBA and NHL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Michael Harrison Issues Plea to Help the ‘Working People’ of the Radio Industry When Personal Tragedy Strikes. TALKERS/RadioInfo publisher Michael Harrison sent out a massive email blast to all of his trade publications’ thousands of subscribers this past Friday afternoon (5/13) containing a personal video message calling for the “working people” of the radio industry to support the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA). The BFOA is a non-profit 501(c) (3) in operation now for more than six decades. The mission of the Broadcasters Foundation of America is to improve the quality of life and maintain the personal dignity of men and women in the radio and television broadcast profession who find themselves in acute need. The Foundation reaches out across the country to identify and provide an anonymous safety net in cases of critical illness, advanced age, death of a spouse, accident and other serious misfortune. According to Harrison, “Radio is a tough business – especially for its ‘working people’ – the people in the trenches doing the shows, selling the spots, managing the stations, engineering the equipment and making the day-to-day wheels go around.” He continues, “Since the crash of ’08 and consolidation stretching the limits of economic integrity – life has been downright brutal for the working people of the radio industry. However, we persevere – because radio people are driven and resilient. We always find a way to make a living…even if we have to turn to the dreaded last resort of seeking employment in another business to put food on the table and a roof over our heads. After all, we are talented, creative, resourceful and in tune with people, the street and the times. All handy assets if you have to go into PR, real estate sales or teaching – unless personal tragedy strikes. And unfortunately, sometimes it does. When radio professionals are stricken by horrible accidents or catastrophic illnesses that make it impossible to work, hold a job or make a living in ANY business, the results can be disastrous. Especially, if they don’t have a nest egg to fall back on… which unfortunately is the case for so many folks in this business struggling to make ends meet when the rent is due or from mortgage to mortgage payment. Radio is one of the only forms of mass media and entertainment in which charity and community involvements are part of its fundamental fabric. How many other forms of media are so quick to raise money for victims of disaster as radio? A significant percentage of the stories we cover in the trade press are about radio broadcasters rising to the occasion to help people in need – sick children, homeless veterans, single moms, victims of natural disasters, and catastrophic illnesses. Helping people is a key part of all our formats. It’s what we do. But who’s out there to help individual broadcasters when WE are stricken by tragedy and have the rug pulled out from under us? That’s when the Broadcasters Foundation of America steps up to the plate.” To see and hear Michael Harrison’s dramatic presentation in its entirety, please click here.
Monday, September 22, 2014
Former Connecticut Governor and WTIC, Hartford Talk Host Found Guilty of Campaign Law Violations. He’d already served 10 months in prison for a 2004 conviction on corruption charges when CBS RADIO’s news/talk WTIC, Hartford hired John Rowland to host a daily afternoon drive radio talk show. Now, after Friday’s conviction on seven counts of campaign finance law violations, it appears that Rowland is likely headed back to prison. Sentencing is scheduled for December 12 but his attorneys plan to appeal. According to the Hartford Courant’s account, Rowland, who resigned from WTIC in April just before being indicted on the charges, chose not to take a plea deal for 18 months jail time and tested his luck with the jury. It didn’t work as the jury found him guilty of all charges related to his scheme to consult a Republican political candidate in 2012 and hide the fact that he was accepting the cash for those purposes. Read Edmund Mahony’s Courant story here.
Local On-Air Talent CAN Become Indispensable. Media consultant Holland Cooke revisits (and expands upon!) the point he made the “pages” of TALKERS four years ago that “if you’re in RADIO, you’re in SALES” in a column published today (9/22). It’s easy to pick apart the effectiveness of another medium’s advertising components but radio must look in the mirror for, as Cooke writes, criticism of a lot of radio’s not-so-great spots is justified because “at many stations, including some in major markets, there’s no creative department. Reps write their own copy, a task that’s not sellers’ core competency.” Effectiveness is directly related to quality, so how to up the quality? Cooke offers some suggestions and you can check them out here.
Consultant Fred Jacobs Encourages Radio Talent to Learn and Exploit Expanded Array of Available Media Tools. Reaction and commentary continues to buzz throughout the industry on the topic of the role of the aural media arts (non-visual radio and music) in the increasingly multi-media/visual environment of the digital era – instigated largely last week by comments made by TALKERS and RadioInfo publisher Michael Harrison in the aftermath of the Clear Channel name/branding change to iHEARTMEDIA. According to Harrison, “I am delighted by the enormous number of responses – mostly overwhelmingly positive – that my comments sparked. Of course, there were those who immediately jumped to the
conclusion that I am against the word ‘media’ or that I do not believe radio should be involved in internet, satellite or visual media at all. This is, of course, preposterous! The name of our company that owns TALKERS is Talk Media, Inc.; the name of our convention was the New Media Seminar way back in 1998; TALKERS magazine’s slogan is The Bible of Talk Radio and the New Talk Media; I have championed a concept known as “The Media Station” for more than a decade and the list goes on. All I am saying is we should remain sensitive and respectful to the idea that there is a very important place in this emerging mix for pure audio-only radio and music in terms of the fundamentals of these processes – and that by doing so, we will be serving the best interests of our industry, the people who work in it and the consumers who love radio and music on their basic terms.” Harrison continues, “My friend, noted radio consultant/researcher Fred Jacobs, CEO of Jacobs Media, — also an industry voice who is outspoken on this most compelling issue — has written and posted a blog today (9/22) that I believe adds an important dimension to the subject that warrants attention. Jacobs makes a case, somewhat counterpoint (but not contradictory) to mine, that I find inspirational.” In the blog, Jacobs writes, “I started thinking about this notion that the proliferation of screens will narrow the field for talkers, DJs, and hosts who are great with words, but not so wonderful visually. As he [Michael Harrison] notes, screens of all sizes are becoming dominant parts of how people consume media. Thankfully, radio has been able to participate on most of those screens, whether on smartphones or tablets. Over time as autonomous driving becomes more common, those who ride in these cars will gravitate to entertainment that is visual in origin – at least at a higher percentage than they are able to consume now while dangerously texting and driving. So is this the beginning of the end for radio, or is it simply the beginning of the beginning? Because as we have explored in this blog during the past few years, disruption forces old stars to adapt while bringing new ones to the center stage. Notably, two of the “Best Motion Picture” Oscars in just the past few years have focused on this topic. The King’s Speech starring Colin Firth was a story about changing technology, as the King of England was forced to learn how to communicate on the radio. Of course, he struggled, but in the end he was able to adapt. And in The Artist, the film’s silent film star refused to adapt to ‘talkies’ and is eventually displaced by a new brand of movie icons. Change is uncomfortable and it can be bitter, as depicted in this amazing film. The ending eventually become a happy one, but the road was arduous and difficult because of the tech disruption caused by the advent of movie sound. Change is hard, especially for those who have enjoyed the status quo. It tests everyone in all strata of the organization and the industry. Accepting, adapting, and adjusting is hard work. It can be quite uncomfortable in workplaces that were once always fun and even kind of easy. But these are the necessary skills that radio people need to exude in order to make the transition. We see signs of this every day in broadcast radio. Those who have the ability to connect with audiences – in person and in social spaces – have a unique edge. The old paradigm of the DJ hermit, locked down the hall in the air studio, is breaking apart. Today’s air talent need to be able to mix it up with listeners, clients, and community leaders. Not every film star is handsome. The public appreciates an interesting face, whether it’s Peter Dinklage on Game of Thrones or Linda Hunt on NCIS. They may be exceptions, but they stand out because they’re different, captivating, and worthy of our attention. They’re also immensely talented actors. And the same will be the case on the radios of the future. While good-looking DJs like Ryan Seacrest or Bobby Bones may have inherent advantages, Howard Stern proves that must-hear content trumps a pretty face. And he’s not alone. Words matter, and they will continue to in a media ecosphere that is now dominated by visuals. Screens or not, it’s the thought that counts. These are changes that radio need to roll with. Let’s open up new visual doors, new avenues, and new paths for our content. And let’s embrace them because it’s truly a media world.” To read Fred Jacobs’ entire blog, please click here.
Radio Management Pro Warren Named VP/MM for Cumulus Nashville. Jumping from the Austin cluster of Entercom where she was director of sales and taking on the vice president and market
manager role at Cumulus Media Nashville is Allison Warren. Cumulus SVP Jeff Brown comments, “Allison was a key part of my team in Denver some years back. She did great work there and has since built a portfolio of successes in vibrant radio markets including Austin, Madison and Milwaukee. Her results-driven, collaborative leadership style will infuse our Nashville operations with the energy and focus needed at this pivotal point in the cluster’s growth. Allison will be an incredible asset to Cumulus’ leadership team.” Warren also served with Entercom at its Madison and Milwaukee clusters as well as with CBS RADIO in Denver. Cumulus operates six stations in the market including news/talk WWTN-FM “SuperTalk 99.7,” sports talker WGFX “104.5 The Zone,” as well as the Tennessee Titans Radio Network.
Cross Platform Media Acquires IRN/USA Radio Network. The president and CEO of Cross Platform Media, Sam Hassell, says the acquisition of IRN/USA Radio Network “rounds out the services of Cross Platform that is already deeply embedded in the national media space.” Hassell continues, “We are very excited to make this announcement. We look forward to fulfilling the original vision of USA Radio Network by providing audience-engaging news and content to the independent and group station owners around the country.” Christian and conservative broadcast pioneer Marlin Maddoux launched the USA Radio Network in 1985 and Hassell adds, “We are very respectful of the Maddoux legacy and proud to continue syndicating ‘Point of View,’ ‘Daybreak USA,’ IRN/USA News and so many other significant programs.” IRN/USA Radio Network currently produces and/or distributes more than 20 nationally syndicated radio programs with audience-targeted formatting primarily for news/talk and Christian radio (both commercial and non-commercial).
BIA/Kelsey Forecast for 2015 Local Media Revenue: Up 1.6%. But, of course, the increase comes as beneficial for those in the online/digital media realm (+13.1%) and, not surprisingly, traditional media is expected to see another dip (-1.7%). BIA/Kelsey is presenting these results and more at its Leading in Local: SMB Digital Marketing conference in New Orleans this week. The company predicts that in 2015, online/digital will account for more than one-quarter (25.2%) of total local media revenues in 2015. Revenues for online/digital are expected to grow from $31 billion in 2014 to $35 billion in 2015, representing a 13.1% growth rate. Other forecasts include: Mobile local ad revenues will grow from $4.3 billion in 2014 to $6.6 billion in 2015; Local social media revenues will grow from $2.5 billion in 2014 to $3.6 billion in 2015; Local search revenues will grow from $7.1 billion in 2014 to $7.2 billion in 2015; Local display revenues will grow from $4.3 billion in 2014 to $4.9 billion in 2015; and Local online video revenues will grow from $2.3 billion in 2014 to $3.0 billion in 2015.
Dolans and Seaview Radio Hit Home Run with Live Event in South Florida. Proving there is life after WOR, New York, the legendary husband/wife money media team of Ken & Daria Dolan (pictured here, Daria at left, Ken at right) joined forces with WSVU (960 AM/95.9 FM/ 106.9 FM), North Palm Beach “Seaview Radio” this past Saturday (9/20) presenting a successful, day-long listener/sponsor event titled, “South Florida Wealth & Health Expo 2014,” at the prestigious Jupiter Maltz Theatre in Jupiter, Florida. The event brought local businesses and services from the fields of health, finance and better living together highlighted with on-stage financial advice presentations by the Dolans. Seaview Radio general manager Chet Tart tells TALKERS, “The event gave us a wonderful opportunity to establish new and heightened relationships with sponsors from one of the most dynamic business sectors in the market. We immediately received positive response with attendees and vendors already asking about next year’s event. I think we might have to find a larger venue, next time around.” The Dolans, now based in Jupiter, are best remembered for their stunning run of success at WOR, New York and the WOR Radio Network in the 90s and early-2000s – supplemented by their hosting hot shows on CNN, MSNBC and
other cable news/talk networks as well as penning best-selling books on the topic of personal finance. Known for their entertaining banter and solid advice both on air and on stage, the Dolans went into semi-retirement several years ago – but have had difficulty steering clear of offers that keep coming their way for live appearances and their broadcast sales consulting services. The result has been the birth of the increasingly active firm Dolan Media. CEO Ken Dolan tells TALKERS, “There are huge revenue and promotional opportunities for local radio stations in live events – especially in the areas that strike home to most people – health and money. The two go together beautifully as we have just proven at this event in Florida. Daria and I are strongly considering taking this show on the road and helping stations around the country create a very exciting form of financial and PR synergy so dearly needed by small and middle-sized operators at this time.” Perennial members of the TALKERS Heavy Hundred during their run at WOR, the Dolans have been ranked #75 on the prestigious Heaviest Hundred list of the “100 Most important Radio Talk Show Hosts of All Time.” WSVU, North Palm Beach was recently sold by North Palm Beach Broadcasters to JVC Media. GM Chet Tart – one of the most connected broadcast executives in the market – will stay on as GM of the new expanded operation planned by the acquiring owners, telling TALKERS, “With this transition to JVC, I find myself even more focused than ever… offering leadership, encouragement and inspiration to the staff. That’s my focus!” Chet Tart can be reached by email at chet@jvcbroadcasting.com. Ken Dolan can be contacted at dolanmedia1@aol.com.
Odds & Sods. At the iHeartMedia Des Moines cluster, alternative KXDA PD Mike Killabrew takes on the programming responsibilities for sister sports talker KXNO, leaving WHO programmer Van Harden to focus on his duties with the heritage news/talker…..Radio personality Denny Schaffer – most recently with iHeartMedia news/talker WRNO, New Orleans and former host at the company’s WSPD, Toledo – is back in Toledo as morning jock on Cumulus Media’s hot AC WWWM “Star 105.”…..Dallas news pro Jim Ryan joins ABC News Radio full time. Ryan — a current staffer at WBAP, Dallas and part-time contributor to ABC News Radio, makes the switch starting November 1.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Tornado Damage Reported Via Multi-Media on McGraw Milhaven Show. The series of tornadoes that swept across the Midwest on Sunday left serious damage in New Minden, Illinois – about an hour East of St. Louis. The photo you see here is from the video component of KTRS, St. Louis morning host McGraw Milhaven’s online platform. Since the spring, Milhaven has been partnering with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s StlToday.com site to present his program in a video format. Today, he used that medium to his advantage as reporter Michael Golde was able to report back to the studio via Skype and show viewers scenes from the storm-damaged town and converse with Milhaven and news anchor Kelly Jackson. In posting the video on YouTube, Milhaven comments, “KTRS Radio in St Louis is the only radio station in the country to show live video of storm-damaged areas of Ill. to listeners on laptops, desktops and smartphones as well as the radio.”
JVC Media to Flip Rock WRCN, Long Island to News/Talk After Christmas. Longtime rocker WRCN, Riverhead, New York has stopped playing “everything that rocks” and has gone Christmas music through the holidays. But after Christmas, the station will emerge as a news/talk outlet dubbed “LI News Radio 103.9.” JVC Media president and CEO John Caracciolo explains the company’s thinking in a statement: “WRCN has a long history and heritage on Long Island – many of us have grown up with the station and it has become an intricate part of our lives. But as our lives change so does our soundtrack. What we listened to growing up is not necessarily what we listen to now and what was important to us as teenagers maybe doesn’t seem so important anymore. That’s why we made the decision to change WRCN and develop and program a radio station that fits the needs of Long Island…Long Islanders are starving for local news and information. Why should we have to wait 22 minutes to hear about the world when all we really want is Islip to Southampton? What’s the traffic like on the 347 merge or Sunrise Highway in Oakdale? This station will not only serve as your information source but it will be your sounding board for issues that influence your life, your community and your business.” Talent that has been announced to be part of the new format includes Premiere Networks nationally syndicated star Sean Hannity and Cumulus Media Networks personality Mark Levin as well as local hosts Ernie Fasio, Vic Fusco, John Gomez, Kevin Law, Steve Levy, Frank McKay, and Jay Oliver.
Linda Thomas to Exit KIRO-FM, Seattle. Morning news anchor and reporter Linda Thomas announces she will be leaving Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle at the end of the year for a new opportunity that, as she says, “doesn’t involve being at work by 2:00 am.” In a blog post at the company’s Mynorthwest.com, she writes, “My Bonneville Seattle bosses understand and support my decision too, even though they don’t want me to leave. That’s what family members do. I’ll always be grateful for them, and for you.” Thomas first worked at KIRO in 1988 as an overnight editor and became morning drive anchor in 1993. She left the station to work as a freelancer but returned to KIRO-FM as morning anchor in 2010. She adds, “KIRO’s news, talk and online teams are the best in the business. It’s been an honor to work alongside amazing talent. I’ve learned a lot from all my co-workers. They encourage me, challenge me, and make me laugh on a daily basis. I really do love them.”
Michelle Wright Let Go from All-News WYAY, Atlanta. The Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Rodney Ho tips us that morning drive co-anchor Michelle Wright has been let go from Cumulus Media’s all-news WYAY, Atlanta “All-News 106.7.” Andy Rose remains in AM drive solo. The speculation is that the recent hiring of Kim “The Kimmer” Peterson to host a talk show in middays and the acquisition of Atlanta Braves baseball required some cuts in other areas of the station and Wright was the unfortunate victim. She was one of the original staffers when Cumulus decided to turn WYAY into an all-news station in May of 2012. She had previously worked at Atlanta-based CNN Radio before joining Cumulus.
CEOs Make the Grade. Clear Channel’s Bob Pittman and Emmis’ Jeff Smulyan were both the subjects of feature stories in newspapers over the weekend – Pittman in The New York Times and Smulyan in the
Indianapolis Star. In a Q&A titled, the Value of Dissent, Pittman says he encouraged dissenters in his organization because they serve a valuable purpose. “I want us to listen to these dissenters because they may intend to tell you why we can’t do something, but if you listen hard, what they’re really telling you is what you must do to get something done. It gets you out of your framework of the conventions of what you can and can’t do.” Read that piece here. Jeff Smulyan tells the Star in his Q&A that the best piece of advice he’s received has to do with employer-employee relationships, “Attract the best people, treat them well, and let them do their job. If you want people to go through walls for you, you have to go through more walls for them.” Read that story here.
The View of Radio from the Digital World’s Perspective. Noted radio digital consultant and TALKERS columnist Chris Miller writes, “Those of us in digital media know that our world will continue to change drastically, over and over again. We also know that we will be bigger and better three years…five years…10 years from now. Plus, we hear how radio compares itself to online listening choices, and we see how you use your digital platforms. And here’s what we think.” In a new column posted today (11/18) Miller goes on to state that digital-only people still have “transmitter envy” and that even though more and more people and media are moving online, the stick is still a formidable asset. Regardless, he points out that many digital-only professionals think that over-the-air radio companies are “crazy” for cutting talent, still selling 60-second commercials, and not being cognizant of just how much entertainment is changing. He clearly explains what digital pros see as radio’s “dangerous assumption.” He observes, “I look at a lot of different radio social media, websites, database emails and texting programs, and it’s clear you’re making some dangerous assumptions. Digital content doesn’t work like you think it should. It doesn’t work like you wish it did. It works like it works. We see you on Facebook and Twitter talking about almost anything…except what people really love about you. Your websites are a mish-mosh of broad-based content, but if you look at your web stats, there are fewer than half-a-dozen features at your site that, combined, get the lion’s share of your page views. There is nothing special or exclusive about the emails you send your listeners, and your open rates prove it. Radio people know a lot about how people use radio. Meanwhile, you are using all these other media as if knowing how they work doesn’t matter. One key thing we’re doing to drive our online success is to track everything we can to see what really makes a difference. We don’t have the luxury of having opinions about what should work. Either the clicks are there, or they aren’t. What we do either works, or it doesn’t. If it doesn’t, you dig in, diagnose the problem, and adjust.” To read Chris Miller’s entire column, please click here.
Premiere 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 relations
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.
It’s Pop-Up Time. No, not the kind of pop-up we associate with websites – pop-up ads – but those retail stores that “pop up” in vacant storefronts during the holiday shopping season. Sales maven and H&H Communications president Al Herskovitz writes about getting these seasonal businesses advertising on your station this year. He notes that many of these retailers are big name brands that choose to expand their physical space during this time of year and they include Vera Bradley, Louis Vuitton and the National Football League. Read Al Herskovitz’s entire column here.
ABC News Radio Offers Kennedy Assassination Programming. As the nation marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, ABC News Radio is offering a two-hour special broadcast, “Three Shots Rang Out: An ABC News Special – The JFK Assassination 50 Years Later,” anchored by ABC News’ Diane Sawyer. It’s an audio-only program that will be heard by ABC News Radio affiliates. In addition, a special expanded show will be available via download at Audible.com as part of a new digital audio relationship between ABC News Radio and Audible. The Audible.com version of this program will include an additional 40 minutes of historical audio available exclusively to Audible listeners.
Ron Ruth Passes. Former 19-year Radio Advertising Bureau executive vice president of stations Ron Ruth died early Saturday (11/16) in Florida of a heart attack. The 75-year-old Ruth had been struggling with health issues the past two months. CBS Radio president and chief executive officer Dan Mason was among those quickly noting their sympathies regarding Ruth’s passing. “I just spoke with him at the Radio Show this past September in Orlando,” Mason writes on Facebook. “He was so up and happy – I am sad tonight.” Also on that social media platform, Tom Birch notes, “Ron lived life to its fullest and was a joy and inspiration to everyone who had the opportunity to know him. Ron was the midwife to Birch Research. He opened doors for me, encouraged me and guided me. I am deeply honored to have worked for Ron at WQAM, Miami in the 1970s, and to have remained friends with him for the next three decades.” According to former RKO General eastern vice president Perry Ury, “Ron Ruth was a friend and our house skeptic at RKO.” Former Tele Media Broadcasting vice president and chief operating officer Ira Rosenblatt adds, “We’ve lost a friend and true broadcaster.” Doing afternoon drive in Boston early in his radio career, Ruth roomed with two other on-air talents who went on to stardom – George Carlin and Jack Burns of Burns & (Avery) Schreiber. He held sales manager positions for Unistar Radio Networks, as well as at the local level in markets such as New York (WOR-FM), Chicago (WNUS), Washington, DC (WGMS), and Buffalo (WYSL). Ruth left Unistar to join the RAB in 1992. Most recently, he was consulting the Radio Advertising Bureau.
A Man of His Word. The man having his head shaved live on the air on Cumulus Media’s WMAL, Washington, DC is former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino. Not too long ago, Bongino said on the WMAL airwaves that he would shave his head if President Obama apologized for the gaffes in the rollout of the Affordable Care Act. And since the president did offer an apology of sorts, Bongino agreed to honor his statement live on the air and did so on Friday, November 15.
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