Tag: "Keith Dakin"
Thursday, September 5, 2019
Adam Hoge Promoted at WGN; Content Partnership with The Athletic Announced. WGN, Chicago enters into a content partnership with The Athletic that will provide The
Athletic subscribers an exclusive, additional podcast from WGN Radio’s Adam Hoge and The Athletic’s Adam Jahns. The “Hoge & Jahns” podcast has been popular with WGN listeners and the addition of the new podcast coincides with Adam Hoge’s promotion to manager of digital sports content for 
Tribune’s Media’s WGN Radio. WGN director of marketing & digital innovation Tabitha Green says, “The success of ‘Hoge & Jahns’ is a great example of the innovation Adam will bring to his new role. His passion for sports and expertise in digital storytelling will take us to a whole new level.” In this new role, Hoge will oversee online strategies and content created by WGN Radio sports journalists. Hoge will continue to be the station’s Chicago Bears insider, traveling with the team throughout the season.
Connoisseur Promotes Keith Dakin to VP of Programming. Connecticut-based programmer Keith Dakin has been the regional operations manager for Connoisseur Media. Now, after nine years with the company, Dakin rises to vice president of
programming for the entire station group. Connoisseur Media CEO Jeff Warshaw says, “Keith has done a terrific job with our Connecticut stations and has been an extremely valuable resource for Connoisseur. His ability to work with talent is particularly prized within our company.” Dakin says, “I am beyond honored to be given a chance to oversee the programming for Connoisseur Media. Our CEO Jeff Warshaw has assembled a collection of legendary radio stations that I can’t wait to work with. These are huge brands that really connect on a local level and bring unique, interesting and compelling content to our listeners.” Connoisseur recently acquired news/talk WICC, Bridgeport and AC WEBE, Westport Connecticut, as well as Frederick, Maryland duo news/talk WFMD-AM and country WFRE-FM.
Cumulus Names Eric Mastel to Charleston Market Manager Role; Gigi South to Lead Savannah Station Group. The July passing of Charleston, South Carolina market manager Sherry Dollar put Cumulus Media in the position of searching for her
replacement. Now, the company announces it is moving Eric Mastel from his VP and market manager post in Savannah to the leadership position in Charleston. The Charleston cluster includes news/talk WTMA-AM and four music outlets. Cumulus EVP Bob Walker comments, “We are thrilled that Eric 
will be moving to Charleston to lead our team and our great brands. He is an accomplished leader and will complement the strong team in Charleston nicely.” Taking over the cluster management in Savannah is Gigi South, who joins Cumulus Media to serve as vice president and market manager for the six-station group that includes news/talk WBMQ-AM and sports talk WJLG-AM “The Ticket AM900,” as well as four music brands. South was most recently general manager with Mississippi Broadcasters. Prior to that, she was vice president of WSCG-TV in Beaufort, South Carolina. South says, “To say that I am overjoyed to return to the Savannah-Hilton Head market with Cumulus would be an understatement. A thriving market, a results-focused team, the support and tools available from Cumulus, and our dominant signals are enough to get anyone excited.”
Great Lakes Media Adds Mitch Dolan and Ed Nolan to Leadership Team. The Milwaukee-based firm Great Lakes Media Corp. announces two additions to its leadership team. Mitch Dolan joins as chief operating officer and Ed Nolan is named chief financial officer. Dolan was most recently COO of radio & outdoor for Times
-Shamrock Communications. During his career he also served as president of the ABC Radio Station Group and president and general manager of WPLJ-FM, New York. Nolan was most recently SVP/CFO & treasurer of Greater Media, Inc. Great Lakes Media CEO Tom Langmyer states, “I’m 
pleased to welcome two experienced and exceptional leaders to Great Lakes Media. Mitch is highly respected in the media industry and, whether in New York City, where he operated stations directly, or in the ABC major markets he led across the U.S., his outstanding track-record of achievement was defined by his ability to consistently out-perform the companies and stations with whom he competed. Ed’s distinguished career is highlighted by his oversight and successful execution of a number of complex M&A transactions while serving on the senior leadership team of one of America’s finest and most-admired media companies.” Great Lakes Media Corp. intends to primarily invest in the acquisition of local radio stations and digital platforms in the U.S., focusing on properties in medium and large markets in the Northeast and Upper Midwest.
Clingerman Appointed Market President for Townsquare’s Wichita Falls Stations. Moving from the television to the radio business is Troy Clingerman, who is named market president and chief revenue officer for
Townsquare Media’s Wichita Falls, Texas cluster that includes news/talk KWFS-AM and three music-formatted stations. Clingerman was most recently local sales manager for Tegna’s KYTX-TV in Tyler, Texas. Prior to that, he served in the digital sales department at E.W. Scripps’ KJRH-TV, Tulsa. Clingerman says, “I’m excited to join the Townsquare team in Wichita Falls. The key to our success will be talented people and all the solutions any small business would ever need, both of which we have in Wichita Falls.”
Sports Talk WOFX-AM, Albany Adds FM Signal. Albany market sports talk outlet
WOFX-AM “FOX Sports 980” adds an FM signal to its broadcast via translator W240EC at 95.9. The iHeartMedia station carries the FOX Sports Radio daily lineup – “Outkick the Coverage with Clay Travis” in mornings, followed by Dan Patrick, “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” and Doug Gottlieb in afternoon drive. Station program director Jeff Wolf says, “FOX Sports has the best national talent and sports play-by-play programming for sports fans all over the Capital Region. We are absolutely thrilled to bring FOX Sports programming to even more listeners on 95.9 FM.”
Christine Travaglini to Receive MIW Group’s 2019 Trailblazer Award. The Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio Group announces that Katz Radio Group president Christine Travaglini is the recipient of this year’s MIW Group Frances Preston Trailblazer Award. The MIW Group Trailblazer Award is presented annually to a woman
who, through her leadership and success in the industry, creates opportunities for other women in radio to further their careers. Travaglini will receive the award on September 25 during the Wednesday headliner, “You’re Not Just in the Radio Business Anymore: Stories from Innovators Who’ve Made the Transformation,” session at the NAB/RAB Radio Show. MIW Group National Spokeswoman Denyse Mesnik says, “Christine began her career with Katz as a sales assistant in the Atlanta office and was the first person to rise from an assistant to a division president within the organization — that personifies a Trailblazer! When selecting our MIW Trailblazer, we look for a woman who forged her own path to success in our industry while making it a priority to nurture others in their career growth. Christine embodies those qualities and we look forward to honoring her at the 2019 Radio Show.”
TALKERS News Notes. On October 7, Howard Stern will commemorate the official opening of SiriusXM Hollywood, the company’s new Hollywood complex that features
artist-first studios, with his first broadcast from the West Coast in almost 20 years. The new broadcast and performance space is located in the heart of the burgeoning Hollywood Media District at 953 N. Sycamore Ave. SiriusXM/Pandora says it “has been built from the ground up to reflect the company’s commitment to the West Coast artist community and audience, and to be the base for originating great talk, compelling entertainment, world class music, and exclusive performances for the more than 100 million listeners of the United States’ leading audio entertainment company.”…..The Westwood One-distributed “BOB & TOM Show” begins airing in Chicago on Monday (9/9) on Cumulus Media’s WKQX-HD2. Cumulus says, “The popular show will broadcast with limited commercial interruption via a full metro market signal broadcasting from the top of the John Hancock Building. The nearly 1.8 million HD Radio-equipped cars in the Chicago DMA will make ‘The BOB & TOM Show’ accessible for scores of people in the Chicagoland area who grew up listening to the legendary morning comedy show in markets across the Midwest and beyond.”…..iHeartMedia Milwaukee announces it has joined forces with The Wisconsin Podcast Festival to promote one listener’s podcast on-air with the “iHeart Your Podcast” contest. The promotional contest will give the winner the opportunity to have their podcast advertised on all six of iHeartMedia Milwaukee’s stations including, news/talk WISN and sports talk WRNW-FM “97.3 The Game.” The festival is the first of its kind and will feature live podcasts and special guests, including ‘95.7 BIG FM’ personality Eric Paulsen. Wisconsin Podcast Festival founder Allison Phillips says, “It only made sense to partner with iHeartMedia Milwaukee for the Wisconsin Podcast Festival. We can’t wait to bring Wisconsin’s podcasters and aspiring podcasters together for a weekend of learning and sharing.”…..Rapper and actor Tip “T.I.” Harris drops his first two “expeditiously” podcast episodes in partnership with PodcastOne. In one episode, hip hop legends LL Cool J and Ice Cube join Harris to share never-before-heard stories of transitioning from kids who rapped in the hood, into mega superstar MCs, along with their evolution into successful businessmen…..iHeartMedia Riverside’s KPWK “FOX Sports AM 1350” enters into a broadcast agreement with the California Baptist University athletics department, effective for the 2019-2021 athletic seasons. As part of the deal, “FOX Sports AM 1350” will serve as the official flagship radio station for the school’s men’s basketball team.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Chicago, Hubbard Radio names Rachel Kelso associate producer of the morning drive “Sherman & Tingle Show” on classic rock WDRV “97-1 FM The Drive.” Kelso previously served as producer for the “Jenn & Friends Show” at Entercom’s CHR WSTR, Atlanta “Star 94.”…..Pictured below (l-r) are WMMR, Philadelphia’s Bill Weston, Jacky Bam Bam, and Bill Burns assembling boxes of food at Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance as part of Beasley Media Group Philadelphia’s 2019 Day of Caring Initiative. Three shifts of Beasley volunteers peeled and chopped vegetables, prepared and packaged soups, and assembled breakfast, lunch and dinner meal trays for freezing. The organization provides medically appropriate meals, three a day, seven days a week, for area residents affected by chronic, life-threatening illnesses.
August 2019 PPM Data – Information for the August 2019 ratings period has been released for Washington (D.C.), Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. 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 these nine PPM markets.
Washington, DC
Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of July’s +.9, Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL is steady at 5.3 (6+) but pushes up from sixth to
fifth. July’s increase halted three successive March through June declines that accounted for an overall –2.4 (6.8 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.4, 6+). Immediately before that streak, WMAL posted three straight (“Holiday” 2018 through March 2019) improvements for a collective +2.5 (4.3 – 5.7 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+), with March’s 6.8 its best 6+-stat in the PPM-era. After posting a .2 (6+) in August 2018, Radio One’s WOL “News Talk – Where Information Is Power” is unlisted for the 13th sweep in succession.
This is the third consecutive report that Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM (Nationals) has logged a 3.4 (#13 to #12, 6+). In June, “106.7 The Fan” recaptured almost half (three-tenths) the eight-tenths lost in May. After nearly doubling (+.4) its 6+ AQH share via four straight sweeps without a loss (.5 – .7 – .8 – .8 – .9, 6+), Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team” is off 33% (-.3) in July/August (.9 – .7 – .6, #21 to #23, 6+). On July 1, Cumulus Media suspended its news/talk simulcast of WMAL-AM & WMAL-FM; WMAL-AM became sports talk WSBN “ESPN 630 AM The Sports Capitol.” WSBN checked in with a .1 (#29, 6+) in the July report but is unlisted in August.
An overall -2.5 in six successive down or flat sweeps (10.4 – 9.8 – 9.7 – 8.7 – 8.7 – 8.2 – 7.9, 6+), WTOP applies the brakes with a +.1 to 8.0 (6+) but backslides from second to third. The Hubbard Broadcasting all-news operation shifted to the runner-up slot in July after six straight months at #1. January’s 10.4 was its best 6+-performance since March 2018 (10.4, as well). Entercom business news WDCH gains two-tenths via three consecutive up or flat moves (.4 – .5 – .6 – .6, #24 to #23, 6+).
A July boost of four-tenths by American University-owned news/talk WAMU (8.0 – 8.4, 6+) interrupted three successive slips that accounted for a loss of nine-tenths (8.9 – 8.7 – 8.4 – 8.0, 6+). “The Mind Is Our Medium,” which progressed from the runner-up slot to #1 this time last month, forfeits two-tenths to 8.2 (6+) and is tied for the lead position. Immediately prior to gaining three-tenths in March, WAMU was -2.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +2.5 (January 2019); and -1.2 (February).
Washington, DC Music Formats – Over and above adding one-half share to July’s +.2 (7.5 – 7.7 – 8.2, 6+), Radio One urban AC WMMJ “Majic” – which had been anchored in third-place the past eight reports – marches to a first-place tie (with public news/talk WAMU – see above). July’s increase applied the brakes to three consecutive dips that resulted in a cumulative loss of seven-tenths (8.2 – 7.8 – 7.7 – 7.5, 6+). Immediately prior to that skid, “Majic” put together six successive increases that netted a +1.8 (6.4 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.4 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2, 6+). This is its highest 6+-showing since March (8.2, as well). Howard University’s similarly-programmed WHUR is off six-tenths in three down or flat monthlies in succession (6.5 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 5.9, 6+) and is in fourth-place the fourth consecutive time. Down one-tenth in back-to-back reports (6.5 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), WHUR regained that deficit with a May pickup of two-tenths. Its March loss of one-tenth suspended three successive increases that accounted for a +1.2 (5.3 – 6.2 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+). Tacking on eight-tenths to July’s +.1 (4.2 – 4.3 – 5.1, 6+), Atlantic Gateway Communications contemporary Christian WGTS “91.9 Christian Music Radio” carries on at #7. Myersville, Maryland-licensed WWEG “106.9 The Eagle” surfaced in print in January with a .6 (6+). The Manning Broadcasting classic hits-oldies station cracked the top twenty in February, April, May, and June. “The Eagle” is up one-half share to 1.2, its highest 6+-stat since debuting in January, and lands at #19. A loss of one-half share (3.8 – 3.3, 6+) sends Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications’ WETA “90.9 – Washington’s Classical Music Station” off the top ten (#9 to #13). While it remains in fifth-place, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “97.1 – Washington’s Variety” surrenders one-tenth to 5.3 (6+), thus snapping four straight sweeps without a loss that accounted for a +1.0 (4.4 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+). July’s 5.4 was its best 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2018 (10.4). On May 31, Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX “Mix 107.3 More Music – More Variety” transitioned to an Educational Media Foundation-owned contemporary Christian as WLVW “Positive & Encouraging K-Love.” May 2019 marked the final sweep before the format/ownership switch and “Mix” added six-tenths (3.5 – 4.1, 6+) to exit as a top ten station (#11 to #8). Its January 2019 through May 2019 topline was 3.5 – 4.1 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 4.1 (6+). In its new format, WLVW eroded by roughly 78% (-3.2) in June/July (4.1 – 2.2 – .9, #17 to #19, 6+); however, WLVW adds four-tenths in August to 1.3 (6+) and inches up to #18.
Boston
Spoken-Word Formats – Eight positive or neutral trends in succession by iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO have yielded a +1.6 (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+); “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” repeats at #8. For the third month in a row, co-owned WXKS-AM “Talk 1200” adds one-tenth (.4 – .5 – .6 – .7, #26 to #25, 6+).
Up four-tenths (3.3 – 3.7, tenth to eighth, 6+) Entercom-owned sports talk WEEI-FM (Red Sox) catches Beasley Media Group-owned (Patriots, Celtics, Bruins) WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub,” which has lost nearly half (-3.3) its 6+ AQH-share in three drops in a row (7.0 – 5.6 – 3.8 – 3.7, seventh to eighth, 6+). Sample shifts for WEEI-FM include: -.5 (September 2018); +.5 (October); +.6 (November); -2.0 (December); -.7 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.7 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); -.5 (March); +.6 (April); and -.6 (July). Nine recent shifts for “The Sports Hub” include: +.9 (October 2018); +.8 (November); -1.0 (December); +.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January 2019); -.8 (February); +.8 (May); -1.4 (June); and -1.8 (July).
Frozen on 5.0 (6+) the past five months, iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” busts out a one-half share increase to 5.5 (6+) and continues in fifth-place; WBZ-AM was +1.3 in January/February (4.3 – 5.5 – 5.6, 6+).
Up four-tenths in July/August (3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+), Boston University news/talk WBUR moves from ninth to seventh. In addition to advancing from #16 to #14, WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH picks up six-tenths to 2.8, its best (6+) showing since December 2018 (2.8, as well).
Boston Music Formats – Improving by six-tenths each are Beasley Media Group’s WBOS “Boston’s Rock 92.9 Rocks” (#14 to #13) and Northeast Broadcasting triple A WXRV “92.5 The River – Boston’s Independent Radio” (2.1 – 2.7, #17 to #15, 6+). “Rock 92.9” is up eight-tenths in three straight increases (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.6 – 3.2, 6+). When “The River” relinquished six-tenths in July, it curtailed four consecutive upticks that netted nine-tenths (1.8 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.7, 6+). A gain of three-tenths to 2.2 (flat at #18, 6+) by iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WJMN “Jam’n 94.5” pulls the plug on six straight down or flat moves that resulted in a -1.2 (3.1 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, 6+). Notwithstanding that it is #1 the fifth month in a row, Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR “105.7 – 80s & More” falters by -1.1 (8.8 – 7.7, 6+). This follows – and basically wipes away – back-to-back (June and July) increases of six-tenths (7.6 – 8.2 – 8.8, 6+). When WROR dropped two-tenths in May, it snapped at four a consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted a +2.2 (5.6 – 6.2 – 6.8 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+). Boston’s (6+) pacesetters thus far this calendar year have been: iHeartMedia-owned CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” (January, 7.3, and February, 7.4, 6+); WROR (March and April, 7.8 – both times, 6+); WROR and WXKS-FM (May, 7.6, 6+); and WROR (June, 8.2, July, 8.8, and August, 7.7, 6+). In the market’s CHR arena, iHeartMedia’s aforementioned WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” is an overall -1.3 in three setbacks in succession (7.6 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 6.3, 6+) but is in the runner-up slot the third straight month. A one-half share increase in May took “Kiss 108” to 7.6, its strongest 6+-performance since August 2018’s 7.8. Entercom’s similarly-formatted WODS “103.3 Amp Radio” is without an increase the seventh consecutive time for a net loss of seven-tenths (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.8, #16 to #19, 6+). The combined +.8 that Entercom adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” racked up in May/June (6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+) is vaporized in July/August with a -.9 (6.9 – 6.4 – 6.0, 6+). June’s 6.9 was its highest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2018’s 14.5. The April 2019 through August 2019 (6+) profiles of Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT “Hot 96.9” and Entercom hot AC WWBX “Mix 104.1” are extremely similar. “Hot” is -1.0 in four straight down or flat moves (4.3 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.3, #10 to #11, 6+), while “Mix” is -.6 in four consecutive months without an increase (3.9 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3, #10 to #11, 6+).
Miami
English-Language Spoken-Word Formats – The April 2019 through August 2019 topline for iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” is a very consistent 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.6 (#18 to #17, 6+).
Recently rebranded from “Sports Radio 560” to “560 The Joe,” Entercom-owned WQAM (Dolphins) gains one-tenth in back-to-back sweeps (.5 – 6 – .7, #30 to #28, 6+). It leapfrogs co-owned WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket,” which is down 33% (-.3) in July/August (.9 – .8 – .6, #26 to #29, 6+).
After logging four straight up or flat reports that produced two-tenths (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN falters by seven-tenths in July/August (2.3 – 1.9 – 1.6, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#20 to #21).
Miami Music Formats – Within 6.3 – 6.6 range in each of the last eight survey periods (6.5 – 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.4 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.6 – 6.3, 6+), Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” breaks out a +.7 to 7.0 (6+) and continues in the runner-up slot. This (7.0) is the highest 6+-stat for “Hot” in just over one year (June 2018, 7.1, 6+). A collective -1.1 through six straight negative or neutral moves (5.2 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+), urban contemporary sibling WEDR ends the slump with a +.3 to 4.4 (6+); “99 Jamz” is anchored at #7. By gaining six-tenths (3.2 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rock WBGG “Big 105.9” cracks the top ten (#12 to #8) and records its best 6+-showing (3.8) since November 2017’s 3.9. In addition to regaining the three-tenths it lost in July (7.6 – 7.3 – 7.6, 6+), Cox Media Group-owned adult contemporary WFEZ “Easy 93.1” is #1 the eighth consecutive ratings period (including a three-way tie at #1 in February). Eight-tenths has been a common fluctuation recently for “Easy” as it was down eight-tenths in February; up by that magnitude in March; and up again by eight-tenths in June. Entering the “Holiday” 2018 sweep, “Easy 93.1” finished on top seven straight times. Entercom’s similarly-formatted WLYF repeats July’s (6+) AQH-share (5.5) and market rank (fourth). When “101.5 Lite FM” picked up one-tenth in July, it curtailed four straight sweeps without an increase that led to an overall -1.2 (6.6 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.4, 6+). It was in third-place March, April, May, and June. Following four upticks in succession that produced a +1.3 (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+), rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WPOW “Power 96” surrenders all but one-tenth of that increase and fades from the top ten (2.9, -1.2, #7 to #15, 6+). While it continues at #9, Spanish Broadcasting System-owned Spanish tropical WXDJ “El Zol 106.7” is -1.2 in six straight down or flat trends (4.9 – 4.8 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+). In the market’s CHR contest, iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” gains three-tenths (2.8 – 3.1, 6+) at the same time that Cox Media Group’s WFLC “Hits 97.3” forfeits three-tenths (3.3 – 3.0, 6+). As a result, “Y-100” (#15 to #11) overtakes “Hits 97.3” (#11 to #13).
Seattle
Spoken-Word Formats – Steady in fifth-place, Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM gains
one-half share in July/August (4.6 – 4.9 – 5.1, 6+). Co-owned KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio,” which logged a +.5 in three straight sweeps without a loss (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.7, 6+), drops two-tenths to 1.5 (flat at #22, 6+). In five successive negative or neutral reports, Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI lost more than half (-.9) of its 6+ AQH share since February (1.6 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .7, 6+), but “Talk Radio 570” ends the slide by picking up two-tenths to .9 (#26 to #25, 6+).
A collective -1.3 in four straight down or flat trends (4.3 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+), Bonneville sports talk KIRO-AM “ESPN 710” (Mariners, Seahawks) slumps from #14 to #17. After having its 6+ stat sliced by more than 60% (-.9) via four consecutive slips (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .6 – .5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” improves by three-tenths to .8 (6+) and repeats at #28.
An increase of four-tenths (2.8 – 3.2, #15 to #13, 6+) takes Sinclair Broadcast Group all-news KOMO to its best 6+-stat (3.2) since November 2017’s 3.4.
In three consecutive decreases (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.2, 6+), Northwest Public Radio news/talk KUOW has lost nine-tenths and drops from second to fourth.
Seattle Music Formats – June’s first-place tie between iHeartMedia-owned KZOK “102.5 Seattle’s Classic Rock Station” and Hubbard Broadcasting CHR KQMV “MOViN’ 92.5 – Seattle’s #1 Hit Music Station” was broken with emphasis in July when the former gained nine-tenths and the later spiraled by eight-tenths. The roles are reversed in August though as “MOViN’ 92.5” hangs out a +1.1 (5.3 – 6.4, third to first, 6+) while “Seattle’s Classic Rock Station” plummets by -1.0 (7.0 – 6.0, first to second, 6+). An overall -1.0 in four successive down or flat trends (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.8 – 6.6 – 6.0, 6+), KQMV ended the slump in June with a gain of one-tenth. “MOViN’” made it to #1 in April, the first time it reached the lead spot since November 2018. As a result of August’s -1.0, KZOK snaps its consecutive string of eight straight positive spikes that produced a +3.3 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 7.0, 6+). Immediately in advance of that particular run, KZOK was -1.6 in four consecutive ratings periods without an increase (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 3.7, 6+). It’s a strong sweep for the market’s two adult contemporary outlets as Entercom’s KSWD “94.1 The Sound” logs a +1.0 (4.4 – 5.4, sixth to third, 6+), while Hubbard Broadcasting’s KRWM “Warm 106.9” improves by six-tenths (4.3 – 4.9, eighth to sixth, 6+). In each of the last three sweeps, “The Sound” and “Warm” were separated by one-tenth. Prior to eroding by -1.1 in April, “The Sound” was an overall +1.5 through three consecutive increases (3.7 – 3.8 – 5.1 – 5.2, 6+). Entering the May sweep, “Warm 106.9” recorded a 4.8 (6+) in three of the previous four reports (4.8 – 4.0 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+) and was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2018. By notching a +.3 to 3.1 (flat at #15, 6+), Sinclair Broadcast Group hot AC KPLZ “Star 101.5 Today’s Best Mix” halts seven straight down or flat reports that accounted for a collective -2.3 (5.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+). A combined +1.4 in July/August (3.7 – 4.5 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits KJAQ “96.5 Jack FM Playing What We Want” surrenders half that increase (4.4 -.7, fourth to eighth, 6+). In July, Seattle’s version of “Jack” reached the five-share threshold (5.1, 6+) for the first time in nearly ten years (5.0, October 2009). After a lengthy hiatus from being in print, Hubbard Broadcasting adult standards KIXI resurfaced with three straight .7 showings (February, March, and April, 6+). It elevated to 1.3 (6+) in May; 1.2 (June, 6+); and 1.4 (July, 6+). In August, however, “AM 880 – Music As Cool Now As It Was Then” drops to .9 (#25, 6+). After more than doubling (+2.2) its 6+ AQH share in eight successive up or flat sweeps (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.8 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+), co-owned KNUC “New Country 98.9 The Bull” returns one-tenth to 4.2 (6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #12). One-tenth ahead of “The Bull” is Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf – #1 For Country” (4.1 – 4.3, +.2, #12 to #9, 6+), which wiped away May’s +.9 with June/July’s combined -.9 (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.1, 6+). Prior to April, when it regressed by six-tenths, KKWF was a cumulative +1.4 as a result of three straight upticks (3.3- 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+).
Detroit
Spoken-Word Formats – Six straight sweeps without an increase by Cumulus Media’s
WJR led to a -1.7 (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.0, 6+), but “News Talk 760” (Lions) applies the brakes with a +.2 to 2.2 (6+) and is flat at #19.
Stuck on 5.0 (6+) in February and March and then on 5.4 (6+) in April and May, Entercom sports talk WXYT-FM (Tigers) is a combined -1.5 in three successive setbacks (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 3.9, 6+); “97.1 The Ticket” exits the top ten (#9 to #11).
A combined -1.4 in June/July (6.2 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+), co-owned WWJ “News Radio 950” roars back with a +1.1 to 5.9 (6+) and vaults from sixth to second; WWJ was #1 in March.
The (repetitive) April 2019 through August 2019 topline for Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM is: 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.6 (flat at #20, 6+). Unchanged at #21, Wayne State University news/talk WDET regains the two-tenths it dropped in July (1.2 – 1.0 – 1.2, 6+).
Detroit Music Formats – Not only is Beasley Media Group urban-rhythmic oldies WMGC +1.3 in July/August (3.9 – 4.1 – 5.2, 6+), “105.1 The Bounce” jumps into the top ten (#11 to #7) and reaches the five-share level for the first time since February 2017 (5.2, as well). Co-owned WRIF “Everything That Rocks” improves by six-tenths (4.6 – 5.2, 6+) to advance from eighth to seventh. This (5.2) is its highest 6+-showing since February’s 5.9. Still in that Beasley Media Group cluster, WCSX “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” is off three-tenths (7.2 – 6.9, 6+) but repeats at #1. Its June/July +.8 (6.4 – 6.5 – 7.2, 6+) followed three successive down or flat months that accounted for a -1.4 (7.8 – 6.5 – 6.4 – 6.4, 6+). In March, WCSX eroded by -1.3 to shift from first to second. Its March/April decline of -1.5 followed back-to-back gains of nine-tenths (6.0 – 6.9 – 7.8, 6+). “Detroit’s Classic Rock” spent four straight months at #1 before being dislodged in September 2018. Off a full-share through four straight survey periods without an increase (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WJLB “97.9 – Detroit’s Hip-Hop and R&B” halts the slide with a +.4 to 3.5 (#15 to #14, 6+). A loss of six-tenths (6.2 – 5.6, 6+) sends adult contemporary cluster-mate WNIC “The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today” from second to fifth. After its 6+ AQH share eroded by nearly two-thirds (-11.8) in four successive sweeps (17.9 – 7.1 – 6.6 – 6.2 – 6.1, 6+), WNIC answered with a May increase of four-tenths. WNIC’s “Holiday” 2018 17.9 is the largest 6+ AQH share by any Detroit station in the PPM-era. On top in December 2018 and “Holiday” 2018, WNIC more than tripled (+12.2) its 6+-share via four straight increases (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.6 – 12.2 – 17.9, 6+). Unchanged at #10 is its format rival – Entercom’s WDZH “98.7 The Breeze” – which is off a combined eight-tenths in July/August (4.8 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+). CHR WDZH “Amp Radio” became adult contemporary “The Breeze” in early-November (2018) and, in eight successive reports without a loss (2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.8, 6+), it more than doubled (+2.5) its 6+ AQH share. The streak, however, ended in July. Even though Cumulus Media’s country-formatted WDRQ is +1.3 through six consecutive positive or neutral sweeps (1.6 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+), “93.1 Nash FM” backslides from #16 to #17. This (2.9) is its best 6+-stat since May 2018’s 3.0. Entercom’s similarly-formatted WYCD “99.5 Detroit Country Music” is off seven-tenths in July/August (5.3 – 4.8 – 4.6, 6+) and slides from sixth to ninth.
Phoenix
Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of June’s -.8 (4.0 – 3.2, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KTAR-FM (Arizona Cardinals) is a combined
+1.0 in July/August (3.2 – 3.3 – 4.2, 6+) and zooms into the top ten (#11 to #6). Despite being off seven-tenths via three drops in succession (3.1 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” climbs from #16 to #15.
Off -1.0 in June/July (3.1 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+) Bonneville sports talk KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” (Arizona Diamondbacks) notches an August +.3 to 2.4 (6+) and leaps from #19 to #15 (tied with KFYI).
Albeit that Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ repeats July’s 3.4 (6+), it departs the top ten (#10 to #11).
Phoenix Music Formats – Recording increases of one-half share each are Entercom classic hits-oldies KOOL “94.5 Phoenix Classic Hits” (third to second) and iHeartMedia’s KNIX “102.5 Today’s Best Country” (steady at #5). KOOL is an overall +2.3 in five bumps in succession (4.0 – 4.1 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 5.8 – 6.3, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (6.3) in more than two years (July 2017, 6.4, 6+). KNIX “Today’s Best Country” gains nine-tenths in three successive spikes (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 5.1, 6+), obliterating its -.9 in three straight decreases (5.1 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2, 6+) and matches February’s 5.1. Adult contemporary sibling KESZ is an overall +1.7 via five consecutive upticks (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.9 – 6.5 – 6.8 – 7.0, 6+) and repeats at #1 with its strongest 6+-showing since January (7.0, as well). Owing to three drops in a row (5.3 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 3.7, 6+), CHR cluster-mate KZZP “104.7 Kiss-FM” is a cumulative -1.6 and shifts from seventh to tenth. The last time “Kiss” fell below a four-share (6+) was “Holiday” 2017 (3.0). Univision Radio regional Mexican KHOT “Que Buena 105.9,” which was -1.1 in four straight sweeps without an increase (3.0 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 1.9, 6+), ends the slide with a +.3 to 2.2 (6+) and reenters the top twenty (#21 to #18). Off seven-tenths (2.7 – 2.0, 6+), Entravision’s similarly-formatted KLNZ “La Tricolor 103.5” fades from the top twenty (#14 to #21). Faltering by one-half share each are iHeartMedia adult hits KYOT “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” (6.7 – 6.2, second to third, 6+); Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KUPD “Arizona’s Real Rock” (4.6 – 4.1, fifth to seventh, 6+); and iHeartMedia hot AC KMXP “Mix 96.9” (4.4 – 3.9, eighth to ninth, 6+). Recent shifts for KYOT “The Mountain” include: -1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.6 (January/February); -.8 (March); +.7 (April) -1.2 (May); +1.2 (June); and -.5 (August). “The Mountain” ranked first three ratings periods in succession before being ousted in May. KUPD “Arizona’s Real Rock” has its lowest 6+-stat (4.1) since “Holiday” 2016’s 4.0. In July, KMXP “Mix” gained one-half share to halt seven successive down or flat reports that accounted for a -2.0 (5.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+).
Riverside
Spoken-Word Formats – After three ratings periods in a row of being unlisted, iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE” resurfaces with a .1 (#20, 6+).
Unchanged at #20, co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” has a November 2018 through August 2019 topline of: .2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .1 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 (6+). For the 20th straight sweep, similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted.
This is the fourth report in a row that San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR is below a one-share (.8 – .4 – .6 – .5 – .8, flat at #14, 6+). Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” posts a .3 (6+) for the third time in the last five reports (.1 – .3 – .1 – .3 – .3, 6+) and repeats at #16.
Riverside Music Formats – Off six-tenths in June/July (3.0 – 2.9 – 2.4, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KSCA “LA 101.9” erases that shortfall with an increase of nine-tenths to 3.3 (eighth to sixth, 6+). In three down or flat trends in a row (4.6 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 3.5, 6+), Spanish contemporary cluster-mate KLVE was a collective -1.1 but “107.5 K-Love” picks up two-tenths to 3.7 (6+) and carries on at #5. Not only does KLYY add eight-tenths to July’s one-half share increase (6.2 – 6.7 – 7.5, 6+), “Jose” marches from second to first. Prior to July, the Entravision Spanish adult hits outlet was an overall -4.3 in seven straight declines (10.5 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 8.1 – 7.4 – 7.0 – 6.4 – 6.2, 6+). It had been in the runner-up slot in April, May, June, and July. In advance of the April ratings period, “Jose” occupied the #1 spot 11 sweeps in succession. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when KLYY recorded a 10.4. After four straight months at #1, KOLA segues to #2. The Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies station is -1.7 in July/August (8.6 – 7.6 – 6.9, 6+), immediately after being +1.8 via three successive positive spikes (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.0 – 8.6, 6+). Prior to May, the last time KOLA reached the eight-share level (6+) was February 2018 (8.4). KOLA finished second in 11 successive survey periods and went to #1 in April. Good News Radio contemporary Christian KSGN falters for the sixth time in the last seven sweeps and is a collective -1.7 in that stretch (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.2 – 2.4, sixth to eighth, 6+). “Family Friendly 89.7” falls below a three-share (2.4, 6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 2.7. Two of its format rivals – Educational Media Foundation-owned KLRD “Air 1 – Worship Now” (1.6, #11, June 2019, 6+) and KKLQ “Positive, Encouraging 100.3” (.7, #15, June 2019, 6+) – are unlisted for the second month in succession. After reaching the five-share level in July (5.1, 6+), Entercom’s KFRG “New Country K-Frog” sputters by seven-tenths to 4.4 (6+) but continues at #3. In four consecutive down or flat trends, Liberman Broadcasting regional Mexican KRQB is down eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+) but stays in seventh-place. This (2.5) is the lowest 6+-showing for “Que Buena 96.1” since 2.3 in November 2018. The +1.6 that LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE “Old School 104.7” chalked up in three successive improvements (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+) becomes a -1.6 in five consecutive setbacks (3.7 – 3.4 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1, flat at #9, 6+).
San Jose
Spoken-Word Formats – In ten straight San Jose sweeps without an increase (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.4,
6+), KGO lost more than 50% of its 6+ AQH share (-1.6). The Cumulus Media news/talk station answers with an August gain of four-tenths to 1.8 (6+) and reenters the top twenty (#23 to #19). There is a similar turnaround for co-owned news/talk KSFO, which is up two-tenths to 1.0 (#27 to #24, 6+), thus pulling the plug on three successive declines that accounted for a loss of roughly half (-.7) its 6+-stat (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .8, 6+). In July, KSFO fell below a one-share (.8, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2018 (.9).
Regressing by six-tenths each are KGO and KSFO sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” (4.2 – 3.6, seventh to eighth, 6+) and Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (#21 to #24, 6+). Giants flagship KNBR erased June’s half-share decrease and had posted a 4.2 (6+) three times in the previous four reports (4.2 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+); KNBR was +1.1 in April. “The Game” erodes by nearly two-thirds (-1.9) in three straight sharp declines (2.9 – 2.4 – 1.6 – 1.0, 6+), immediately after a +1.4 as a result of three consecutive positive spikes (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.9, 6+).
The (repetitive) April 2019 through August 2019 topline for all-news sibling KCBS-AM is: 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.6 (fifth to fourth, 6+). KCBS-AM was -1.9 in three straight March through May decreases.
Even though it returns the three-tenths it added in July (6.0 – 6.3 – 6.0, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED remains at #3. Three straight slips by KQED accounted for a collective -1.1 (7.1 – 6.9 – 6.1 – 6.0, 6+). San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW follows July’s +.6 with an August drop-off of three-tenths (1.3 – 1.0, flat at #24, 6+).
San Jose Music Formats – Positive news continues for Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits,” which not only is #1 the fourth consecutive month but hauls out a +1.3 (7.3 – 8.6, 6+). “Bay FM” answered April’s -1.5 with a +1.3 in May (6.2 – 7.5, 6+), returning to #1 after an April-only stay at #2. Prior to the April sweep, KBAY had been +1.5 via three bumps in a row (6.2 – 6.9 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+). Notching increases of six-tenths each are Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” (3.0 – 3.6, tenth to eighth); iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KYLD “Wild 94.9” (2.9, #13 to #11, 6+); and Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KJLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” (.1 – .7, #31 to #28, 6+). “Que Buena” has its best 6+-stat (3.6) in nearly two years (3.8, November 2017). “Wild” was a combined -1.1 in June/July (3.4 – 3.0 – 2.3, 6+), falling below a three-share (2.3, 6+, July 2019) for the first time since November 2018 (2.9). “K-Love” popped on with a .6 (6+) in June and then lost one-half share in July. Up one-half share (3.6 – 4.1, 6+), Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “95.3 San Jose Hot Country” has its best 6+-performance since December 2018 (4.1, as well) and advances from ninth to sixth. Major ups/downs continue for Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3,” which was an overall -1.1 in three successive declines (6.1 – 6.0 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+); rebounded in July with a +.9 to 5.9 (6+); but now craters by -1.5 (4.4, fourth to fifth, 6+). In three straight drops, Bonneville-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock” falters by an overall -1.9 (5.8 – 5.3 – 4.9 – 3.9, sixth to seventh, 6+). This is the eighth month in a row that adult contemporary sibling KOIT-FM is unlisted in San Jose. As the result of five straight increases (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 6.0 – 10.1, 6+), “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” was a cumulative +7.1 and reached #1 in “Holiday” 2018. KOIT-FM remains in print in the San Francisco report.
Middlesex
Spoken-Word Formats – In a bit of an oddity, Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW is #1
the seventh successive month yet hasn’t had an increase the seventh time in a row. “New Jersey 101.5” is -1.5 in that January 2019 through August 2019 timeframe (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.6, 6+). A boost of six-tenths (2.9 – 3.5, 6+) enables iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” to rocket from #17 to #12. Owing to three Middlesex-Somerset-Union upticks in succession, Cumulus Media news/talk WABC doubles (+.6) its 6+ AQH-share (.6 – .7 – .9 – 1.2, #25 to #24, 6+).
Three successive bumps by Entercom sports talk WFAN (Yankees, Giants) result in a net gain of eight-tenths (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.4, tenth to ninth, 6+). Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York,” which added seven-tenths in May, is down an overall nine-tenths in June/July/August (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6, flat at #23, 6+).
In addition to being up one-half share via four consecutive positive spikes (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+), Entercom all-news WINS enters the top twenty (#21 to #20). Conversely, co-owned/similarly-programmed WCBS-AM (Mets) is off seven-tenths in July/August (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.8, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #22).
After losing six-tenths in three consecutive decreases (2.5 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.9, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM ends the slide with a +.1 to 2.0 (6+) and repeats at #21.
Middlesex Music Formats – In addition to jumping from sixth to fourth, Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” is a collective +1.9 in four consecutive positive or neutral trends (3.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 5.3, 6+). This (5.3) is the strongest 6+-stat for “Magic” since “Holiday” 2018’s 5.8. Posting a robust August 2019 increase of nine-tenths as well is Emmis urban AC WBLS (5.4 – 6.3, third to second). WBLS now trails market frontrunner (news/talk) WKXW by just three-tenths. Three up or flat moves in succession by rhythmic CHR cluster-mate WQHT yield a +1.1 (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+) as “Hot 97” enters the top ten (#11 to #10). This is its best 6+ Middlesex-Somerset-Union performance since November 2018 (3.6, as well). An uptick of six-tenths by iHeartMedia-owned WAXQ enables “Q-104.3 – New York’s Classic Rock” to reach the five-share level (4.4 – 5.0, unchanged at #6, 6+). On the other hand, off by six-tenths each are Entercom-owned WNYL “Alt 92.3 New York’s New Alternative” (3.3 – 2.7, #12 to #15) and iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 KTU” (3.1 – 2.5, #15 to #17, 6+). This (2.7) is the lowest 6+-stat for “Alt” since 2.5 in “Holiday” 2018. When WKTU posted a July gain of three-tenths, it interrupted three down or flat moves in a row that led to a loss of two-tenths (3.0 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+). Faltering by one-half share (4.1 – 3.6, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WNSH “New York’s Country 94.7” slips from ninth to tenth. Unchanged at #14, iHeartMedia-owned urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1” is off seven-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.0, 6+). While Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ is without an increase the fourth straight time for a -1.0 since April (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 2.7, 6+), “Mega 97.9” actually climbs from #16 to #15. Five successive improvements by Entercom hot AC WNEW net a +1.7 (3.4 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.5 – 5.0 – 5.1, 6+) as “NEW 102.7” continues in fifth-place. A combined -3.4 in June/July (3.8 – 2.0 – .4, #22 to #30, 6+), WNEW’s former hot AC competitor, WPLJ, disappears from print. Cumulus Media sold WPLJ to Educational Media Foundation, which shifted the station from hot AC to contemporary Christian on May 31.
Friday, May 3, 2019
Milwaukee’s ‘97.3 The Game’ Brings Steve Czaban in for AM Drive. Sports talk radio personality Steve Czaban is the new morning drive host on iHeartMedia’s WRNW-FM,
Milwaukee “97.3 The Game, Milwaukee’s Sports Talk That Rocks.” “The Steve Czaban Show” debuts on Monday (5/6) and will air from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. With the arrival of Czaban, the current “Drew & KB” program moves to afternoon drive. Czaban, who also hosts afternoon drive at Radio One’s WTEM, Washington, DC, 
most recently was a cast member at crosstown rock WHQG’s “Bob & Brian” show. He’s also served with Sporting News, ESPN Radio, Fox Sports Radio, Yahoo Sports Radio, and SB Nation Radio. He comments, “The chance for me to do more in Milwaukee was too good to pass up. This is exactly the style and attitude of sports radio that I love to do. Nobody hustles in front of a winning parade better than me! I plan to celebrate the highs, curse the lows, and laugh at all the absurdity in between – just like I’ve always done. The program lineup at ‘The Game’ is amazing and I’m humbled to be a part of it.”
WICC-AM, Bridgeport Announces New Local Shows. Yesterday, TALKERS magazine reported the departure of programmer Mike Bellamy from WICC-AM, Bridgeport, Connecticut as well as the pairing of Melissa Sheketoff with incumbent morning personality Tony Reno for the new morning show. Connoisseur Media, now operating the station under an LMA as it waits to close on the swap with Cumulus Media, also announces it’s going
local in afternoons with well-known market personality Paul Pacelli hosting the 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm program. Joining Pacelli to produce the show and provide local sports content is former Waterbury Republican and CT Post writer Aaron Johnson. Pacelli states, “I’m thrilled and honored to be on board at a heritage powerhouse like WICC, a station synonymous with greater Bridgeport and Southwestern Connecticut. My goal is to present a passionate, entertaining, and vital platform for local newsmakers, personalities, and residents.” Station OM Keith Dakin adds, “For a station like WICC to have continued success on the AM dial it needs to fully embrace the community. We want to make this station come alive on all levels from podcasting to social to an on-air product that the Bridgeport community can be proud to call their own.”
New Programming Announced for Entercom’s RADIO.COM Sports. Two new, original shows are debuting on Entercom’s RADIO.COM Sports. Both “Big Time Basketball” and “Big Time Baseball” are twice-weekly shows that “feature expert analysis from RADIO.COM Sports insiders providing the most up-to-date news, commentary and happenings.” “Big
Time Basketball” is hosted by former NBA player, coach, and Celtics television commentator Brian Scalabrine and KGMZ-FM, San Francisco personality Matt Steinmetz. “Big Time Baseball” is hosted by Jon Heyman, veteran play-by-play voice Josh Lewin, and a rotation of guest hosts, including Joe Girardi, Bob Nightengale, and others to be announced. RADIO.COM Sports is also adding new football insiders, including Hall of Famer Michael Irvin, NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger, and Philadelphia Eagles insider Eliot Shorr-Parks. Shorr-Parks and Baldinger will host a weekly football digital show on May 14. Entercom president of sports Mike Dee comments, “With the addition of these three new shows, RADIO.COM Sports continues to expand our digital content offering for fans across the country. We look forward to continuing to build the RADIO.COM Sports digital platform with more native content in the weeks and months ahead.”
Michael Harrison and TALKERS Debut New Weekend Radio Show on iHeart’s Washington’s WONK-FM. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison has agreed to host a one-hour, weekend magazine-style program on the recently launched iHeartMedia project WONK-FM, Washington, DC “Washington’s WONK-FM,” beginning tomorrow (5/4). The program titled, “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation,” features interviews and commentary by the heritage broadcaster that provide a politically
even-handed and balanced analysis of the most prevalent points of view being discussed each week in talk media per the research gathered by TALKERS. Interviews are conducted with newsmakers, pundits and, of course, talk show hosts from around the country and subject matter reflects the information published each week on the TALKERS top topics charts. Harrison, who was a major market and nationally syndicated air personality in both music and talk formats during the pioneering days of album rock and then the modern talk era, has been back on the air hosting shows for the past two years as a fill-in on such stations as WRKO, Boston; WMAL, Washington, DC; WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz; and several others, in addition to anchoring the weekend syndicated ensemble program, “A Touch of Grey: The Talk Show for Grownups” (hosted by Carole Marks). Harrison says, “It all began when I started doing the weekly podcast, ‘The Michael Harrison Interview,’ with PodcastOne four years ago. People in the business would say things like, ‘I didn’t know you could actually do radio like that!’ My juices began flowing again and not only have I been enjoying the experience as if I were 19 years old breaking into radio again, but the first-hand knowledge I have gained working in the trenches of the modern industry has significantly enhanced my understanding of how it actually operates in the real world and has helped me do my job at TALKERS with an even keener perspective.” Harrison adds, “I love being part of this new WONK-FM experiment because it encourages me to follow my natural inclination to remain ideologically objective and independent and avoid the hyper-partisanship that comes with seeking victory at the expense of truth whereby you simply target audiences to affirm their preconceived notions. I like what iHeartMedia is doing with this station and I love having the opportunity to collaborate with the station’s PD Michael Czarnecki (who is also PD of the iHeart Podcast Channel) – a young up-and-coming programming star with whom I happily crossed paths at WRKO over the past couple of years.” “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation” airs on WONK-FM Saturday mornings at 9:00 am ET. It is a production of Goodphone Communications in association with TALKERS magazine.
Griffin Communications Appoints Randy Smith Director of Radio Sales. Oklahoma media firm Griffin Communications announces Randy Smith joins the company as director of
radio sales. Griffin owned just television stations and digital platforms in Oklahoma City and Tulsa prior to acquiring five Tulsa radio stations – including news/talk KFAQ – from Scripps last summer for $12.5 million. Griffin director of radio operations and programming Steve Hunter says, “Randy brings years of experience, an abundance of local connections, and a can-do spirit to our already winning team. He is a clear standout in motivating people to maximize their potential and bottom-line impact, a skill that will prove invaluable as he joins our Griffin family.” Prior to joining Griffin, Smith served as director of sales-radio for Cox Media Group.
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Valentine Podcast Sponsors NASCAR Driver. The picture above shows the logo of talk radio host Phil Valentine’s podcast, “PodGOATs,” on the hood of NASCAR driver Tommy Joe Martins’ Toyota Supra. “PodGOATs” is co-hosted by Valentine and his son, Campbell. Valentine says they talk about everything from the history of alcohol to dating to advertising to the history of the mob – a unique blend of a wide array of topics from two different perspectives, from a Baby Boomer and a Millennial. Valentine explains the sponsorship, “I know this may sound rather random, but Diamond Gusset Jeans – one of our main sponsors – approached us with this opportunity and it was just too good to turn down. Somebody has to be a pioneer in podcast sponsorships in this arena. It’s fertile ground.” The PodGOATs will be in the pit tomorrow (5/4) in Dover, Delaware for the Allied Steel Buildings 200. Valentine’s radio talk show is heard daily on Cumulus Media’s WWTN-FM, Nashville “99.7 WTN” from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
WGFX-FM, Nashville’s Jonathan Hutton Named ‘Man of the Year.’ Sports talk personality Jonathan Hutton was recently honored by the Tennessee Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as its 2019 Man of the Year. Hutton led the effort by WGFX “104-5 The Zone” that raised $152,499.31 during the 10-week fund drive that included: an off-the-record event with Tennessee Titans controlling owner Amy Adams Strunk, a HORSE-style basketball tournament, a Masters-themed golf competition at Top Golf, and a chalk talk draftee breakdown and dinner with NFL Films’ Greg Cosell. Pictured above at the “Evening with Amy” event are (from l-r): Kenneth Adams, Titans Ownership Group; Eddie George, former Titan; Logan Ryan, current Titan; Hutton; Strunk; John McClain, Houston Chronicle/WGFX analyst; Blaine Bishop, former Titan and WGFX morning host; Kevin Byard, current Titan; David Quesenberry, current Titan.
TALKERS News Notes. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that WSCR, Chicago “The Score” producer Eli Hershkovich is taking on a role with Entercom’s RADIO.COM as a producer/sports gambling analyst. WSCR operations manager Mitch Rosen is quoted saying, “This is truly a great example of someone building, growing, and advancing their brand into a new, innovative position within Entercom and Radio.Com Sports, which is growing and expanding into the content creation business rapidly.”…..The Duluth News-Tribune reports that KDAL-AM/W280FB, Duluth, Minnesota talk host Kenneth Kalligher has been charged with misdemeanor domestic assault. Kalligher, who hosts the “Midday Live” show on the Midwest Communications-owned station, pleaded not guilty. The story reports that court documents indicate the female complainant said she and Kalligher “were arguing when he struck her in the right temple, causing her to ‘see stars’ and fall to the ground.” Kalligher was off the air for two days but returned to his program yesterday (5/2). He’ll be back in court later this month…..B’nai B’rith International produces a podcast and on the current episode,
Pamela Nadell, the Patrick Clendenen chair in Women’s and Gender History at American University’s Department of History and the author of America’s Jewish Women: A History from Colonial Times to Today, is the guest with B’nai B’rith CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin for a discussion on the history of Jewish women in American life. In this episode, Nadell and Mariaschin discuss the societal roles of Jewish women across classes, professions, and time periods, as well as their roles in pivotal social movements in the 19th and 20th centuries, such as the labor movement, women’s suffrage and the feminist movement. Check out the podcast here.
Barr Hearing/Mueller Report Top News/Talk Story for Week of April 29 – May 3. Wednesday’s appearance by Attorney General William Barr before the Senate Judiciary Committee and the related release of the Mueller Report were the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the 2020 presidential race and related politics. Coming in at #3 was the San Diego synagogue shooting and the rise of anti-Semitism, followed by the UNCC shooting and gun violence at #4. The Talkers TenTM is weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s entire chart here.
Rising Radio Star and Master Storyteller Lee Habeeb Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The host and producer of one of the fastest-growing, syndicated properties in talk radio, Lee Habeeb, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” The nightly, two-hour program is called “Our American Stories” and since its launch three years ago, the spoken-word juggernaut is making waves on commercial news/talk stations as well as music formats across the nation. Habeeb was inspired by public radio shows such as “This American Life,” which tap into the art of storytelling, in conceiving the highly researched and meticulously produced “Our American Stories.” Although conservative in its values, the program is distinctly non-partisan and strives to bring Americans of all political ideologies
together based on our cultural commonality. It explores popular culture, politics, business, science… the spectrum of topics, people and angles that make up the rich and intricate fabric of America, its history and its people. The program is breaking new ground on many levels, not just in its programming approach, but in its business model as well, again tapping into the public radio paradigm. It is set up as a non-profit and investing a tremendous amount of capital in the quality of its original content programming. Habeeb describes “Our American Stories” as an innovation in the commercial talk radio sphere – no politics, no opinions, just stories. He says, “We tell a story and the audience tells us their stories — with raw emotional power. Daily bringing the campfire scene to your ears.” 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 daily TALKERS email newsletter and on every page of Talkers.com. Meet Lee Habeeb at Talkers 2019: Telling the Story in New York on Friday, June 7 where he will be discussing storytelling as a key component of successful radio.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. The owner of classic rock WWRR, Scranton says the station has made radio history by accumulating more than 1 million Likes on Facebook. Bold Gold Media Group says the Northeast PA station “has become a social media juggernaut over the past decade, mastering the art of leveraging on-air and social to rapidly grow its following. The station has become the
most-followed social media page based within Northeast PA and one of the most-followed radio station social sites in the entire United States.” Bold Gold president & founder Vince Benedetto says, “We’ve really enjoyed watching our stations become online influencers. Our stations have always been unique… from our highly visible studio inside the Mohegan Sun Pocono casino, our state-of-the-art RadioBOLD mobile platforms, and with our engaging social media, we’ve tried to be a different and more entrepreneurial media group. We’re thrilled to make some radio history and also bring some attention to the combined power of radio and social media.”…..Connoisseur Media announces that Storm N. Norman is returning to Westport, Connecticut adult contemporary WEBE to host mornings, beginning Monday (5/6). Norman served on-air on WEBE for 30 years. He says, “WEBE 108 has been my radio home for most of my adult life and I am thrilled to again wake up families in Southern Connecticut. It’s a 
great opportunity to work with Jeff Warshawand the incredible folks at local Connoisseur Media.”…..Programming pro Miggy Santos joins Midwest Communications Battle Creek, Michigan station group as brand manager for country WNWN “WIN 98.5.” He was most recently with Neuhoff Media as operations manager for CHR duo WWHX, Bloomington “HOT 100.7” and WSOY-FM, Decatur, Illinois “Y103.”…..iHeartMedia Milwaukee announces the deal with local furniture franchise Steinhafels in which the latter is sponsoring iHM’s new performance lounge (pictured below). The new Steinhafels Relax Lounge is located in the iHeartMedia Milwaukee station headquarters and will showcase musical talent, live broadcasts, viewing parties, and more. It will also be furnished by Steinhafels, allowing the store to showcase the latest contemporary furniture it offers.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
RTDNA Announces National Edward R. Murrow Award Winners. From more than 4,400 entries, the awards recognize 89 local and network radio, television and digital news organizations for 118 examples of outstanding journalism in 16 categories. The leader in overall Radio Television Digital News Association awards with five – NPR – scores wins in “Continuing Coverage,” “Excellence in Social Media,” “Excellence in Sound,” “Excellence in Hard News,” and “News Documentary.” Hubbard Washington, DC all-news WTOP and New Hampshire Public Radio repeated their 2017 wins for “Overall Excellence” in large market radio and small market radio, respectively. RTDNA executive director Dan Shelley notes, “Winning an RTDNA National
Edward R. Murrow Award means that a news organization has provided exemplary public service to its viewers, listeners, and readers. These honorees truly represent the very best in broadcast and digital journalism around the world. We cannot make our communities better unless we understand them, and these stories from news organizations large and small have educated, uplifted, inspired, uncovered, and enlightened. These winning pieces revealed the tragedies of human trafficking, kept audiences safe and informed during devastating hurricanes and fires, and provided desperately sought information and context during too-
common moments of violence. They provided insight into healthcare, homelessness and immigration issues, engaged communities in learning about mental health and dug deep into election interference.” In addition to the “Overall Excellence” award won for the second time straight and 12th over 18 years, CBS News Radio was recognized for “Best Audio Newscast” for the sixth time in succession. This year, it was for “World News Roundup” coverage of Hurricane Harvey with Norah O’Donnell reporting from Houston and Steve Kathan anchoring from New York. Coverage of the mass shooting of concertgoers on the Las Vegas Strip last October earned the staff the “Breaking News” award for a report by Steve Futterman, Steve Dorsey, and Deborah Rodriguez. This year’s “Excellence in Writing” award went to Dave Ross for his daily feature. CBS News Radio general manager Craig Swagler states, “It is because of our great radio station affiliates that we are a better, stronger radio network.” Entercom was honored with three awards: Large Market Radio “Excellence in Sound” to all-news KCBS-AM, San Francisco for “Wine Country on Fire”; News Series to all-news WCBS-AM, New York for “The Breaking Point”; and the same station scored for “Newscast” (October 31, 2017, 5:00 pm). The national awards will be presented in four months (10/22) at the RTDNA “Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala” in New York City’s Gotham Hall.
KBME To Shuffle Its Lineup. Former National Football League quarterback Sean Salisbury will join the weekday lineup of iHeartMedia Houston’s KBME “Sports Talk 790” in afternoon drive (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm), starting in less than three weeks (Monday, 7/9). Director of AM programming for 
iHeartMedia Houston, Bryan Erickson, notes, “We are thrilled to be adding Salisbury to the team. The former quarterback brings a unique perspective from his days on the gridiron. We have put together an all-star lineup of guys who know sports and love talking about sports. [KBME] is truly the best destination for compelling local sports content in Houston.” Salisbury adds, “I have been blessed with a full career. This opportunity to work with iHeart and ‘Sports Talk 790’ was too good to pass up in so many ways. I don’t take these great moments lightly. The last five years have been special. I fully expect this new journey to be filled with ‘wow’ moments that make our listeners feel like they are getting the show they deserve.” Following his ten-year professional football career, Salisbury was an NFL analyst on ESPN, and served as a consultant for the 2005 remake of “The Longest Yard.” KBME’s revised lineup as of July 9 will include Josh Innes (6:00 am – 10:00 am); “In the Trenches with Koch & Kalu” (10:00 am – 12:00 noon); Matt Thomas (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm); and Salisbury from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm. The station will continue its broadcast partnerships with the Houston Astros, Houston Rockets, and the University of Texas football and basketball teams.
MacFarlane Donates $2 Million to NPR; $500,000 to KPCC. Opting to answer Fox News host Tucker Carlson’s comments about dishonesty in the media with his wallet, “Family Guy” creator Seth MacFarlane is making a $2 million donation to NPR and $500,000 to Los Angeles’ NPR membership station, KPCC. 
MacFarlane’s contribution will directly benefit NPR’s Collaborative Journalism Network, which connects NPR’s nearly 1,800 journalists so they are able to share resources and eliminate “news deserts” in the United States. An NPR spokesperson writes, “We are deeply appreciative of the generous gift from Seth MacFarlane, which will go to supporting local news coverage, allowing NPR and member stations to continue working together to tell the story of the whole country from everywhere in the country.” Southern California Public Radio president and CEO Bill Davis states, “We are deeply moved by Seth’s generous contribution to Southern California Public Radio, KPCC, and NPR. It is this local/national partnership that is the heart of our shared public service mission and we are committed to more fully realizing that mission thanks to this gift and his challenge for others to join us.” Last Thursday, Carlson stated, “If you’re looking to understand what’s actually happening in this country, always assume the opposite of whatever they’re telling you on the big news stations.” In a tweet, MacFarlane wrote that statements like Carlson’s “make me embarrassed to work for this company,” referring to Fox for whom MacFarlane has provided “Family Guy,” “American Dad,” “Cleveland,” and “Orville.” As a direct rebuke to Carlson’s remarks, MacFarlane further told his Twitter followers, “In other words, don’t think critically, don’t consult multiple news sources, and in general, don’t use your brain.”
TALKERS Founder Michael Harrison Says Fox News Channel Hosts Present “Legitimate” Point of View on the Current Border Controversy. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison spoke this morning (6/20) on CNN’s Headline News Channel (HLN) program “Across America with Carol Costello” about the media’s role in the current border immigration controversy (pictured above). Costello asked Harrison for his perspective on threats by 21st Century Fox show business producers such as Seth MacFarlane (“Family Guy”) and Steve Levitan (“Modern Family”) as well as director Paul Feig who have publicly expressed “disgust” and “embarrassment” over the way Fox News Channel has been covering the family-separation issue with hosts Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham and others showing support of President Trump’s stringent policy. Harrison said that he doesn’t take these threats seriously and the situation will probably be resolved with the country moving on to the next issue before they could even make good on them. If anything, Harrison said, this issue will force Trump to further tweak and define murky areas of his immigration policy. Harrison went on to say that the Hollywood establishment “which includes show business across the board such as Broadway and what took place at the Tony Awards” is hurting its own cause as well as its business interests by speaking out so vehemently for one side in what is a highly-charged polarized situation. Harrison stated, “Famous people whose media products are not directly involved in politics would be wise to stay out of the fray because they will only further alienate the significant segment of the public and electorate that is supportive of Trump… even to the point of strengthening its resolve.” When asked if he thinks the potential acquisition of Fox by Walt Disney Co. or Comcast could result in the Fox News Channel modifying its conservative stand, Harrison replied, “Probably not – they are in business and it is doubtful that they would do something to diminish the formidable earnings of a viable news venue serving a large portion of the population.” Harrison concluded, “No matter how harsh or even cruel Trump’s handling of this situation might be, there are many millions of Americans who support him on it and, thus, Fox News Channel is presenting a legitimate point of view within the highly diverse American marketplace of ideas. If Fox were to back off on its pro-Trump stance, you can be sure other venues such as Newsmax would be more than happy to swoop in and fill the void that would be waiting to be served.”
Westwood One News’ Vietnam Retrospective Nabs Gold Medal Award. Among the five citations Westwood One News received Monday night (6/18) from 
the New York International Radio Festival was a gold medal award for “Pain & Pride: Remembering Vietnam – 50 Years Later,” which aired during Veterans Day 
weekend (November, 2017). Westwood One host/Vietnam veteran Jim Bohannon narrated “Pain & Pride.” Bohannon, who served with the 856th Radio Research Detachment in Cat Lai and Long Binh from 1967 -1968, won a NY Festival prize 30 years ago for his first “Pain & Pride” news special. He comments, “I am very gratified that producer David Oziel, the Westwood One News team, and I have received this recognition. For me, there is special meaning in that we did a 20-year look back special that won the New York Festival’s Grand Award in 1988. Also, I’ll be the keynote speaker [tomorrow, Thursday, 6/21] at the Branson, Missouri reunion of my Vietnam unit, the 199th Light Infantry Brigade. It is a delightful manifestation of what Vietnam vets say to each other – ‘welcome home.’” Bohannon gave the keynote address at the Vietnam Wall Memorial in Washington in 1990; was the principal MC for the Vietnam Veterans reunion in Branson in 2002; and hosted the “Rumble” at “TALKERS 2018” less than two weeks ago (6/8) in New York City.
PPM Analysis: All-News. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents four analyses of the performances of stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s May PPM survey. Today’s report focuses on the all-news format. A year-to-year improvement of nine-tenths (8.8 – 9.7, 6+) enables Hubbard’s WTOP to move from second to third in Washington, DC. It is the only all-news station in a PPM-market to rank first in May 2018. Moreover, with a 9.6 (6+), it once again boasts the strongest 6+-share among its all-news peers. The category’s runner-up in all six survey periods highlighted in this analysis (“Holiday” 2017 – May 2018) is iHeartMedia Sacramento’s KFBK (6.7, 6+, May 2018). See the entire all-news overview here.
Edison Research Releases 2018 Q1 “Share of Ear” Report. The study quantifies reach and time spent with of all forms of audio. Results indicate terrestrial AM and FM radio remains the centerpiece of audio. Among nuggets from the quarterly report as summarized on the Westwood One website by director of content marketing Lauren Vetrano: AM/FM accounts for 47% of all audio time spent among persons 18+. “Owned music” is next at 12%, followed by YouTube videos (9%); ad-free SiriusXM (5%) and TV music channels (5%). AM/FM’s share has been consistently strong throughout the last few years. Edison reports AM/FM radio’s daily reach also remains stable, while Pandora continues to see losses in share and reach; Spotify has grown 36% (3% to 4.1%). Since 2016, Pandora’s “Share of Ear” dropped 17%. From 2016 to 2018, millennials 18-34 daily reach jumped 39%. Daily reach among 25-54s increased 52%. In addition, podcasting’s daily reach is growing, especially among younger audiences, with listening share +39% in two years to 15.2% among those 18-34 and +52% to 9.7% in the same timeframe among 25-54s.
Salem Radio Network Sets Midterm Election Coverage. With its vice president of news & talk programming Tom Tradup commenting, “There is unprecedented interest in this year’s midterms,” Salem Radio Network will feed live Mike Gallagher-anchored coverage on (Tuesday) November 6 beginning at 7:00 pm (ET). Adding their perspective as well that night will be SRN host Hugh Hewitt; White House correspondent Greg Clugston; Senate correspondent Linda Kenyon; Congress correspondent Wally Hindes; Pentagon/military affairs correspondent Colonel Robert Maginnis; and SRN analyst/former presidential candidate Gary Bauer.
TALKERS News Notes. Having overseen the programming content strategy for 54 radio stations in Radio One’s 15 markets and Reach Media‘s nationally syndicated programming since January 2007, senior vice president of programming content Jay Stevens will leave the company when his contract expires the 
middle of next month. Immediately prior to joining Radio One, Stevens spent 16 years as vice president of programming for CBS Radio ….. It’s a busy week for Westwood One “Sterling on Sunday” host Walter (Sabo) Sterling who is filling in for Westwood One teammate Jim Bohannon tonight (Wednesday, 6/20) and tomorrow night (Thursday, 6/21). Sterling will be originating those shows from Entercom Pittsburgh news/talk KDKA-AM. Then, in approximately two weeks (7/5 and 7/6), he will guest host for Cumulus Media Little Rock news/talk KARN-FM afternoon drive talent Doc Washburn ….. Chicago media writer Robert Feder (RobertFeder.com) is first to report that veteran “Windy City” news anchor Dave Stewart (WGN, WLS-AM, WIND) will retire at the end of the month … Word from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Rodney Ho is that Elly Yu is remaining in the public news/talk arena but shifting from Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE to American University’s WAMU as a general assignment reporter.
ABC Radio To Air Four July 4th Specials. All will be three hours in length for broadcast over the upcoming holiday weekend. In “America’s Pastimes,” ABC News Radio correspondent Aaron Katersky enjoys the pastimes that comprise a classic American summer such as the back porch, barbeque, sports, and a day at the beach. Katersky will explore not only the traditional American summer hobbies, but also those that are new. ABC News Radio correspondent Alex Stone hosts “Great American Car Show” in which he examines America’s love affair with the automobile. He tours the presidential limousine that John F. Kennedy was in on that fateful day in Dallas; visits an assembly line making the Ford Mustang (pictured at left); and ponders a future with flying cars. Stone will take listeners on a tour down historic Route 66, do donuts with a Hollywood stunt car driver and learn about the latest in car technology. “Red, White and True-Blue Country Fan Salute” is hosted by Dustin Lynch, who reveals the special relationship between country artists and their fans. Among those included are Jason Aldean, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Little Big Town, and Darius Rucker. They discuss their most memorable and strangest fan encounters, how they engage with fans on social media and what sets country fans apart from partisans of other musical genres. Eddie Money-hosted “Red, White & Rock 2018” celebrates cities, artists, and songs that comprise the landscape of American rock and roll. It will feature music from Aerosmith, Allman Brothers Band, Cheap Trick, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Tom Petty, Bob Seger, Bruce Springsteen, Van Halen, and ZZ Top.
Coleman Insights To Present Podcast Engagement Study. Results will be shared next month (7/25) in Philadelphia at Podcast Movement as part of the conference’s Industry Track. The study will reportedly offer second-by-second data in an analysis on listener reactions to “The Ben & Ashley Almost Famous Podcast,” hosted by former contestants from ABC-TV’s “The Bachelor.” Coleman Insights executive vice president/senior consultant Sam Milkman notes, “We will go well beyond the simple measures of listener and download counts that podcasters are used to seeing and examine content engagement. By looking at how the audience responds to specific content, podcasters can more effectively develop engaging content.” Podcast Movement co-founder Dan Franks remarks, “One of the biggest challenges for a podcaster is to figure out who their listener is, and what their listener wants. Coleman’s solutions for this problem are very exciting for us as organizers, as we get to help spread the word throughout the entire podcast community this July.” Milkman will present the findings with John Boyne and will be joined by iHeartRadio senior vice president of podcasting Chris Peterson.
For The Record. An item in yesterday’s TALKERS (Tuesday, 6/19) noted that “CBS World News Roundup” earned a “gold” medal in the New York Festivals International Radio Program Awards; “CBS World News Roundup” actually won a “bronze.” We apologize for the error.
NYC’s “Alt 92.3” Adds Segall, Stone. In two separate moves, Entercom New York’s WNYL “Alt 92.3” names Bryce Segall music director/evening talent and Dan Stone imaging director. Segall begins in less than two weeks (Monday, 7/2); Stone starts next Monday (6/25). Entercom New York regional president and market manager Susan Larkin comments, “Bryce has continuously displayed the ability to be innovative in the programming end of our industry; we are excited to add his talents. Dan’s previous imaging and voiceover experience will pay great dividends as he joins us in the same capacity.” According to Segall, “New York City is an iconic pillar of alternative culture. It has long deserved a radio station that not only pays tribute, but adds to that legacy. I am looking forward to working with the ‘Alt 92.3’ team to develop an outlet that truly adds value to the thriving, pre-existing music community.” Stone notes, “Helping to build an ‘Alt’ radio brand for New York City is a dream come true. This station’s passion for the format is unequalled; I can’t wait to wake up and be a part of that.” Segall previously was assistant program director/air personality for Seattle’s KNDD “107.7 The End,” and label manager for Mad Zoo. Stone was an imaging contributor/consultant for Cumulus Media Chicago. WNYL is the former WBMP – its calls were changed last Tuesday (6/12). Among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s May 2018 sweep, the station ranked #19 (2.0).
Bevvy of Beasley Media Group Philly Activities. Several community-oriented activities undertaken by Beasley Media Group Philadelphia seemingly converged all at once. Many employees at the cluster were involved in its recent “Best Day of Caring” event to help the City of Philadelphia Community Life Improvement Program (CLIP). Team members from WMMR “93.3 Everything That Rocks”; WMGK “102.9 Philadelphia’s Classic Rock”; adult hits WBEN-FM “95.7 Ben FM”; sports talk WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic”; sports talk WTEL “610 ESPN”; and WWDB “Talk 860” divided into two shifts to clean
up a block in the city’s Frankford section. While there, they picked up trash and removed graffiti to help support the organization’s beautification project. Vice president and market manager Joe Bell comments, “This is truly what being a part of a local community is all about. I could not be more proud of our employees for paying it forward and helping our beloved city. I am proud to be on their team.” Meanwhile, last Friday (6/15), WMGK’s John DeBella raised over $143,000 for local veterans as part of his 13th annual radiothon at the National Constitution Center. Over the past decade, the station has raised over one million dollars to support vets in need. 
Among those donating items used in a series of eBay auctions that occurred in conjunction with the radiothon were Def Leppard’s Rick Allen, Jimmy Buffett, Phil Collins, Eagles, Billy Joel, and Yes. Former leader of Creedence Clearwater Revival, John Fogerty, called the station to voice his support. The following day (Saturday, 6/16), the 13th annual WMMR “I Bleed For Preston & Steve Blood Drive” produced 1,128 units of blood to benefit The American Red Cross Penn-Jersey Blood Services Region. Listeners showed up during a time when the American Red Cross needs blood the most and they received “Preston & Steve” T-shirts and “I Bleed For Preston & Steve” pint glass. Hundreds of donors were randomly selected to receive a pair of tickets to a summer concert. Free food and samples were also provided. Thus far, the annual event has collected nearly 15,000 pints of blood.
O’Brien Inks Multi-Year WCSX Extension. Four-year WCSX “94.7 The Classic Rock Station” morning drive personality (Big) Jim O’Brien signs a multi-year deal to continue hosting “Big Jim’s House” on the Beasley Media Group Detroit outlet. Vice president/market manager Mac Edwards comments, “It is really a pleasure to be associated with Jim and the healthy combination of creativity, wit, and passion for cars and classic rock he brings to his morning listeners in the ‘Motor City.’ Jim’s work to establish Glenn Frey Drive in Royal Oak and soon Bob Seger Boulevard in Ann Arbor; his tireless efforts on behalf of veterans; and his respect for all things Detroit prove he is an extraordinary ambassador for both WCSX and the city he calls home.” Program director JT Tarrants states, “I have been a ‘Big Jim’ fan since I arrived here. We are so glad to have him buttoned up to lead our morning show into the future.” O’Brien adds, “It is an honor to be part of the Beasley Media Group family in Detroit. I look forward to continue entertaining our dedicated ‘Motor City’ listeners for years to come.” O’Brien has been with WCSX since 2002 and is joined on the morning show by co-host Erin V and producer Ryan Logan.
San Andres Ascends to “Z-90” APD. XHTZ “Z-90 – Today’s Hit Music,” the Comunicación XERSA-owned mainstream CHR covering San Diego, promotes music director Kat San Andres to assistant program director. Program director R Dub comments, “It is team members behind the spotlight like Kat San Andres who are 
responsible for the incredible success of ‘Z-90’ and the other brands in this building. Kat’s relentless work ethic and passion for the business helps propel ‘Z-90’ forward every day; expanding her role here was overdue. Add to that, she is the ‘Z-90’ listener; has a great set of ears; and is a lot cooler than I will ever be.” With the station since 2004, San Andres remarks, “Fourteen years later, I am still in love with this career. I am always so thankful and grateful that I decided to take a risk to follow my dreams because it has led me to this wonderful adventure. I am so excited for this opportunity and cannot wait to start this new chapter.” Meanwhile, Kalyna Astrinos of San Diego’s KGTV-TV joins “Z-90” for weekends. She and R Dub worked together at iHeartMedia Los Angeles in 2009.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. After 16 years in the CBS Radio Los Angeles – now Entercom – cluster, John Michael resigns. During his tenure, he was assistant program director/music director at mainstream CHR KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio”; music director for adult hits KCBS-FM “93.1 Jack FM’: and music coordinator/weekend air talent at alternative KROQ ….. Digital program director for iHeartMedia San Francisco Matty Staudt is elevated to iHeartRadio’s vice president of podcast programming. Staudt has launched more than 30 original locally-focused podcasts and hosts iHeartRadio’s “Access Podcast.” In 2008, he became part of the startup team and first director of content and community for the podcasting app Stitcher before moving to Premiere Networks as a consulting producer. A teacher at the Academy of Art University, Staudt will report directly to senior 
vice president of podcasting Chris Peterson …..Exiting Saga Columbus adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95” after 24 years is morning talent Dino Tripodis. Co-host Stacy McKay is the interim replacement named by program director Michelle Matthews ….. Morning drivers Chaz & AJ of Connoisseur Media New Haven’s WPLR “99.1 Connecticut’s #1 Rock Station” raised $18,000 for Connecticut based “Homes for the Brave.” WPLR operations manager Keith Dakin states, “It was truly inspiring to look at a packed house of people who were there not only for laughs but to help out a great organization making a difference in our community. ‘Homes for the Brave’ is doing great things in our state and we are so happy to write them this check.” Chaz adds, “With over a million U.S. veterans at risk of homelessness, this is the least we could do. It is up to us to help take care of those that 
gave for their country.” All money raised will go to help build homes, teach vocational training, and work with homeless veterans ….. The co-host of Cumulus Media’s “Nash Nights Live” – Elaina Smith – teams up with Nash Country Daily for an ongoing conversation about women in country music. Each article will feature a female county artist with an accompanying opinion piece, interview, podcast, or playlist. Profiled female artists will be featured on 90 Cumulus Media websites and more than 130 radio stations nationwide, with a reach of 400,000 people on Twitter and 180,000 on Facebook.
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
WPRO-AM, Providence and Talk Host John DePetro Go Separate Ways. During the month of December, the late morning talk show hosted by longtime WPRO-AM personality John DePetro was handled by a rotating cast of fill-in hosts. DePetro had referenced a “health situation” on his website. Then, just before Christmas,
DePetro notified listeners via his website of his departure from the station. He wrote, in part, “At this time, I have decided to conclude my entertaining weekday 9:00 am -12:00 noon radio show on WPRO. Thank you to all my listeners for making 2016 my best year ever in radio, with my coverage of the Trump campaign, my many exclusives, plus my national work on ‘The Savage Nation’ and CNN. I am very grateful for the many loyal listeners who have been entertained by my program on WPRO over the past 10 years.” So far, WPRO has not named a replacement host, nor has the Cumulus Media news/talk station officially addressed DePetro’s departure.
Programming Moves at iHeartMedia Denver. This affects both news/talk KOA and sports talk KDSP. First, at KOA “NewsRadio 850 AM & 94.1 FM,” the new afternoon show is Lewis & Logan from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm featuring Rick Lewis and Dave Logan. The duo will be joined by Kathy Lee as co-host and Robbyn Hart as 
news anchor. In June of 2014, iHM tweaked afternoons by bringing Denver TV and radio pro Susie Wargin aboard to co-host with Logan for the 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm hours and the show moved away from being sports-centric. Wargin then co-hosted a newsy program with Mike Rice from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Wargin moves to the company’s classic rock KRFX. Also at KOA, Cory Lopez is the new host of “PrimeTime Sports,” airing weeknights from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. At sports talk KDSP, “Denver Sports 760,” Mike Rice hosts the 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm show. The new duo of Ed McCaffrey and Andy Lindahl will co-host the 10:00 am to 1:00 pm program.
KCMO-AM, Kansas City Announces New Program Lineup. There are two talk personalities returning to
Cumulus Media’s news/talk simulcast KCMO-AM/K279BI as the station announces its new, 2017 program lineup. Longtime Kansas City talk personality Greg Knapp is back on the station after a nine-
month absence to host the morning drive program. Knapp hosted the afternoon show at KCMO until late April of 2016. Westwood One’s rollout of the national Chris Plante program brings him back to KCMO in the 11:00 am to 1:00 pm slot. Tom Becka remains in the 9:00 am to 11:00 am slot, while Mike Ferguson moves from middays to afternoon drive (4:00 pm to 6:00 pm) with co-host and producer Jared Carter. Nationally syndicated superstar Dave Ramsey also remains in his current 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm timeslot. Knapp takes over mornings for Rob Carson, who exited late last year.
‘PowerTalk’ in Fresno Launches New Early Evening Program. Fresno news/talk simulcast KALZ-FM/KRZR-AM “PowerTalk 96.7 and AM 1400” announces the debut of the Guillermo Moreno program, this
evening from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The iHeartMedia station says Moreno “will take a conservative approach to local and national issues – including politics, business headlines and pop culture – from the perspective of a Latino millennial and for listeners of all ages.” Moreno comments, “I’m excited to continue breaking the political and radio establishment mold and thrilled to be among the first young Latino millennial hosts in the Central Valley. Fresno is the greatest city in America and I’m honored to continue my passion for politics with my generation here at home.”
December PPMs: Some Notable Occurrences. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at some significant happenings, from a ratings perspective, relative to Nielsen Audio’s December PPM survey. Among them are the return to earth for CBS RADIO’s sports talk WSCR, Chicago and iHeartMedia’s WTAM, Cleveland – both of which benefitted mightily from the performances of the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians leading up to and including the World Series. See more interesting highlights here.
2017 CES Preview. Media consultant Holland Cooke is in Las Vegas at the Consumer Electronics Show reporting for TALKERS magazine and he files the following:
165 THOUSAND of us – from 150 countries – are heading to the massive, mind-boggling Consumer Electronics Show.
This year is the 50th annual CES. Back in 1967, there were ooohs and ahhhs for console color TVs. Are you old-enough to remember the handsome woodwork? Some had built-in stereo systems…but only for the vinyl you played on the turntable. Stereo TV sound? Someday.
50 years ago, only 14 companies were showing-off their stuff, in 100,000 square feet of exhibit space. Back-to-the-future: Today, when they cut the virtual ribbon, four THOUSAND companies will display in 2.4 MILLION square feet of Las Vegas Convention Center. Picture FIFTY football fields.
And that’s just inside. Outdoors, there’ll be drones up above, and down-below we’ll be test-driving cars with no gas tank, and cars with no driver.
Technology accounts for 15 million American jobs. Not everyone becomes a billionaire, by inventing, for instance, the smartphone. But someone became a millionaire by accessorizing it with the Selfie Stick.
Much of what we’ll see here this week is here-today-gone-tomorrow. Many of these companies didn’t exist a couple years ago, and many won’t be around a couple years from now. Innovation is the-name-of-the-game, and that makes CES a welcome pump-up for radio broadcasters attending.
Look for my reports here in TALKERS all this week, and listen for updates on “America in the Morning” and “The Jim Bohannon Show,” or at www.HollandCooke.com.
Terry Foster Returns to WXYT-FM, Detroit’s Afternoon Drive Show. After missing a lot of time on the air during the latter part of 2016 due to a stroke caused by high blood pressure, Terry Foster is returning to the
“Valenti and Foster” program with co-host Mike Valenti on sports talk “97.1 The Ticket.” Program director Jimmy Powers states, “We are excited that Terry is returning to the ‘Valenti and Foster’ show. His humor and insight have been missed not only by his co-workers, but by the listeners. I sincerely appreciate and would like to thank Jeff Riger for sitting in for Terry while he was out; the show didn’t miss a beat.” Foster comments, “I have been on the sidelines for too long. I missed a lot of good stories and a lot of good times. I’m glad to be back on the train again. I want to thank all of the listeners and my co-workers for their encouraging words, they got me through a tough time.”
Dan Lovallo Joins AM Show on Connoisseur’s ‘Talk of CT.’ The news/talk multi-cast heard on Connoisseur Media’s “The Talk of CT” (WDRC-AM, Hartford; WMMW, Meriden; WWCO, Waterbury; and WSNG, Torrington) is adding well-known Connecticut radio personality Dan Lovallo to the Brad Davis morning show. Lovallo has been with the stations in various capacities over the years. In addition to news duties on the
company’s sister classic rock WFOX, Southport (Bridgeport-Stamford market), Lovallo will also host his own Connecticut politics-focused show, “CT On The Hill,” on “The Talk of CT” every day at 9:00 am. This is one of a number of changes at the Connecticut operations of Connoisseur and OM Keith Dakin comments, “These changes, across our portfolio, indicate a strong commitment to localism. Radio will continue to be vibrant if it remains a true fabric of the community with more local morning shows, local news and people from Connecticut behind the microphones.”
Free Talk Live Hosts Prevail at NH Supreme Court. This case goes back three years to a suit filed against “Free Talk Live” hosts Ian Freeman and James Cleaveland by the City of Keene, New Hampshire. The long-running courtroom saga of the “Robin Hood of Keene” all started when Freeman and Cleaveland began plugging the parking meters of citizens whose time was running out and were about to get parking tickets issued by the city’s
parking enforcers. The city sued, alleging among other things that Freeman and Cleaveland were “threatening, intimidating, and harassing” the parking enforcers – something the court ruled the city was unable to prove. The pair won their case at the superior court level but the city took the case all the way to the state supreme court. Freeman informs TALKERS that “the supreme court agreed with the superior court that the city’s proposed injunction, which would keep us away from their enforcers, was unconstitutional. It’s a victory for freedom of speech in the public streets.”
‘Kilmeade & Friends’ Adds 24 New Affiliates. The nationally syndicated “Kilmeade & Friends” late morning
show hosted by Fox News personality Brian Kilmeade and produced and distributed by Fox News Radio, adds 24 new radio affiliates. Some of the stations adding the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon ET program include: WHIO-AM/FM, Dayton; WOKV, Jacksonville; WRHI, Charlotte; WMMI, Flint, Michigan; KZRG, Joplin, Missouri; WFIN, Toledo; and WNIX-AM, Greenville, Mississippi.
Odds & Sods. Nationally syndicated, San Antonio-based talk show host Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo is now heard on
an number of new affiliate stations across the country, including: KZRG, Joplin, Missouri; KHVH, Honolulu; KMBZ, Kansas City; KSTE, Sacramento; WATX, Cookeville, Tennessee and more…..Syndicated morning show “Walton & Johnson” changes affiliates in both New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The program is moving from Entercom classic rocker WKBU to iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRNO in New Orleans and from Guaranty’s classic rock WDGL to iHM’s news/talk WJBO in Baton Rouge…..Westwood One is celebrating the 25th anniversary of “The Dave Ross Show” and announces 
it is extending its relationship with Ross (who also serves as morning news host at KIRO-FM, Seattle). The daily feature is heard on more than 200 stations nationwide including: WCBS-AM, New York; KNX, Los Angeles; WBBM-AM, Chicago; and WTOP-FM, Washington. Ross also guest hosts for Charles Osgood on “The Osgood File.”…..Robert K. Tanenbaum, trial attorney, author of 31 books, and former mayor of Beverly Hills, will be featured in a new segment titled, “Book Buzz,” on Patzi Gil’s “Joy on Paper” radio show, which airs twice weekly on Radio Works’ WTAN, Clearwater, Florida…..Executive vice president Paul Cramer exits Triton Digital after 16 years with the company and its predecessors. He’s excited about his next challenge in the digital solutions space and can be reached at PaulCramer@Outlook.com or 716-508-4104.
Music Radio Trade Publication RadioInfo to Be Absorbed into TALKERS Magazine. Beginning today, January 3, 2017, the music radio industry trade publication RadioInfo is folded into an expanded incarnation of TALKERS magazine (www.Talkers.com and the daily TALKERS email newsletter) and ceases to be distributed as a stand-alone entity. According to TALKERS/RadioInfo VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “This has been a transition in the works for a number of months now. Because, RadioInfo has shared main headquarters and staff with TALKERS for the past five years, there has been a significant degree of duplication between the publications, especially regarding general industry stories that cover all formats. It makes sense from a standpoint of economy, proficiency and expediency to combine these into one ‘super’ trade journal. We will continue to provide RadioInfo readers and newsletter subscribers with the latest news events and personnel changes in music radio within the pages of TALKERS. We also are expanding our coverage of the talented talk-oriented hosts heard across America on music station morning programs that we categorize as ‘pop culture talk.’” Subscribers to the daily RadioInfo email newsletter, not already signed up for TALKERS, will be added to the TALKERS list so they will continue to receive the service. RadioInfo was founded as a set of radio discussion boards and an accompanying general online industry news platform in 1999 by young radio enthusiast and entrepreneur Doug Fleming who tragically passed away in 2005 at the age of 25. The entity, known as Radio-Info.com, continued to be published by Doug’s parents Diana and Rick Fleming until 2012. At that time, the discussion boards were acquired by trade publication Radio Ink’s parent corporation Streamline Publishing and eventually discontinued. The trade publication side was acquired by TALKERS magazine’s parent company Talk Media, Inc. and transitioned into the music radio incarnation of RadioInfo.
Talent Moves at KRFX, Denver. At iHeartMedia’s Denver classic rock KRFX “103.5 The Fox,” 25-year
morning personalities Rick Lewis and Kathy Lee renew and extend their contracts with the station. At the same time, the station announces Denver radio and TV pro Susie Wargin is the new midday personality and market radio pro Uncle Nasty assumes the afternoon drive daypart.
Talent Moves at Connoisseur Connecticut. At the Connecticut operations of Connoisseur Media, operations manager Keith Dakin announces changes to a number of the company’s stations designed to increase their commitment to focus on “being more local and involved in the community.” First, Ken Tuccio is named the new morning drive host at classic rock WFOX, Southport (Bridgeport-Stamford market). He’ll be joined by news broadcaster Dan Lovallo with Fairfield County-centric news updates every 30 minutes. The station will air local news throughout the day during the shifts of new midday host Pam Ciaburri and afternoon host Allan Lamberti. Additionally, Cari Edwards is the new evening personality. At rock WPLR, New Haven, Kevin Begley adds programming duties for the station to his current responsibilities serving as PD for hot AC WEZN “Star 99.9” and WFOX. Finally, at classic rock WDRC-FM, Hartford “102.9 The WHALE,” Allan Lamberti takes over the programming duties (in addition to hosting evenings). The jock lineup consists of: Michael Picozzi in morning, Suzi Klonk in middays, and Keith Dakin in afternoons.
iHeartMedia Adds ‘Mojo in the Morning’ to CHR WSNX, Grand Rapids. The AM drive show “Mojo in the
Morning” – featuring Mojo, Shannon, and Spike – based at iHeartMedia’s CHR WKQI, Detroit “Channel 95.5,” is the new morning show at the company’s West Michigan CHR WSNX, Grand Rapids, effective January 16. Mojo says, “We love Michigan and are so excited to have the show heard in West Michigan. As a big fan of SNX, we are honored to be on the two best CHR radio station brands in Michigan!”
KKHH Hits ‘The Spot.’ Among stations making format modifications over the holidays was CBS RADIO Houston CHR KKHH “Hot 95-7,” which transitions to adult hits “95.7 The Spot.” Supplementing “The Spot” identity is the slogan “Your Place – Your Music – Your Way – A Radio Station Unlike Any Other in Town.” The format change
means Cumulus Media’s KRBE will now have the market’s CHR lane to itself. CBS RADIO senior vice president and Houston market manager Sarah Frazier comments, “We worked exhaustively to understand what Houston listeners were missing from their local radio stations. They told us they wanted their own ‘spot’ to hear their favorite music hits, a ‘spot’ to relax and energize at work, and a ‘spot’ to feel comfy and complete.” Representative “Spot” artists include Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, and U2. Among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s December 2016 PPM report, KKHH is flat at 2.7 (#18), while KRBE gains two-tenths to 3.5 (#14); iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA “Sunny 99.1” is #1 (7.3, 6+).
JVC Goes True Oldies in the Palm Beaches. This change is the result of a partnership with Scott Shannon’s True Oldies format. JVC Broadcasting announces that WBGF, Belle Glade, Florida flips from rock as “93.5 The
Bar” to oldies as “True Oldies 93.5.” JVC Broadcasting of South Florida vice president and general manager Matt Goldapper says, “True Oldies is the perfect fit for the West Palm Beach market – lots of jingles, lots of voices and all the hits all the time. This music is just missing from the radio here in South Florida and with our sister stations ‘95.9 The Palm’ and ‘900 AM The Talk of the Palm Beaches,’ we are just super-serving this market. The best part of this radio mix is the partnership with radio legend Scott Shannon who is the genius behind this entertaining and upbeat radio format.”
More Career Moves and Music Radio News. At the Kansas City cluster of Cumulus Media, the company announces that the Premiere Networks-syndicated Steve Harvey show is now airing in mornings at urban
contemporary KMJK “Magic 107.3.” Meanwhile, at sister classic hits KCMO-FM, Kansas City radio pro Steve-O assumes the afternoon drive host duties, following Lance Tidwell, who takes over the middays 
program…..The syndicated “Ace & TJ Show” announces the official return of former cast member Guenn (Peterson) Schneider. She was previously part of the Ace & TJ team from 2007-2011. Following her departure from the show, Guenn worked with various media outlets in Charlotte…..Alpha Media launched a new contemporary rock outlet on translator W259CL, Orangeburg, South Carolina at 99.7 FM in the Columbia market on December 27. The station will feature such core artists as Green Day, Kings of Leon, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Blink 182, and the Foo Fighters. Alpha Media EVP of programming Scott Mahalick comments, “Alpha continues to grow and invest in Columbia with our latest addition of a contemporary rock station. ‘Rock 99.7’ will be a great companion to our classic rock station ‘Fox 102.3’ WMFX.”…..Refuge Media closes on its purchase of classic rock KMFG, Nashwauk, Minnesota. Refuge bought the station from Midwest Communications, Inc.
Be Prepared for What Could be Another
Perfect Storm
By Howard B. Price, CBCP/MBCI
ABC News
Director of Business Continuity and Crisis Management
NEW YORK — Last year, it was the Halloween Snowprise – an early cold snap fed by a lot of moisture that produced a foot of snow in some places, and felled leaf-laden trees and power lines, blacking out parts of the northeast US for days.
This year – Halloween Week could bring a trick some meteorologists are already calling “potentially historic” — a strong tropical storm or hurricane named Sandy, with the Northeast again in the crosshairs.
This rare climatic event could be what one network weather anchor called an “atmospheric bomb” – produced by a hurricane colliding head-on with a strong cold front. The jet stream bows northward as it approaches the coast, sucking the storm closer to land, instead of pushing it out to sea.
The scenario is eerily reminiscent of the 1991 “Perfect Storm,” which left 12 people dead and more than $200 million in damage after it slammed into the East Coast. Power outages and flooding were widespread.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
WGN Informal Tour Now Playing on TALKERS TV. While TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison was in Chicago last week attending the NAB/RAB Radio Show, he ducked out briefly and headed across the street to the headquarters of the Tribune Company to pay a visit to his friends at WGN. With video camera in hand, and upon extremely short notice, Harrison was graciously given an informal, off-the-cuff, tour of the facility by the station’s program director Bill White. The video of that tour makes its TALKERS TV debut today. Although it offers just a quick and limited slice of the rich world that is WGN – a radio station with a historic pedigree stretching back to the early 1920s – it does capture a provocative glimpse of the heritage station’s unique specialness. Bill White takes us into the locked and almost forgotten — but still intact – record album and 45 rpm singles library, a fascinating reminder of big time radio as it was back in the day. We visit the green room where today’s news/talk radio air guests are greeted, seated and offered beverages…a room that has hosted an endless list of the powerful and famous including heads of state. We watch Leslie Keiling of WGN Traffic Central doing traffic reports and share a few words with her. We talk with Jackie Paulus, WGN director of marketing & digital strategies about the station’s digital sales initiatives. We meet assistant program director Alex Quigley in the WGN radio newsroom — situated against the dynamic backdrop of the main newsroom of the Chicago Tribune, located in the same building. We peek in on the huge main studios of the iconic radio station. A highlight of the visit is chatting with John Williams during a break during his midday show in the WGN street level Showcase Studio and barging in on the staff prep meeting conducted by afternoon drive star Garry Meier. View this must-see video in the TALKERS TV box on this page.
It’s Official: George Plaster Exits WGFX-FM, Nashville. Speculation over whether sports talk host George Plaster would stay with the company he sued for his freedom eight years ago (Cumulus) when it became owner of WGFX-FM is over. Plaster tells The Tennessean he made the decision on Friday, “It’s the toughest decision I’ve ever had to make in radio. It was very emotional for me because of the people that I’ve worked with. The people at 104.5 The Zone are as professional as any radio station that I have ever dealt with. These are friends and we’ve had unbelievable success at this station.” The new crosstown sports talk station owned by Cromwell Group – WPRT-FM – is a possible destination for Plaster but he says he’ll take some time to decide what he’s going to do next. There is probably a non-compete that Plaster will have to wait out before going back to radio in Nashville. At WGFX-FM, “The Allstate Sports Zone” continues on with Willy Daunic and Chad Withrow.
Premiere Networks Announces Goldline Exclusive Precious Metals Dealer Sponsor of Sean Hannity Show. Sean Hannity’s nationally syndicated radio show – heard on more than 500 affiliate stations – reaches an extremely dedicated core group of conservative talk radio listeners. That target demo must be exactly what Goldline International Inc. is looking for as it announces it is the exclusive
precious metals sponsor of the Sean Hannity show. Goldline CEO Scott Carter states, “Sean Hannity clearly represents the pinnacle of talk radio with millions of loyal listeners following Sean’s unique take on politics, culture and current events. Goldline is thrilled to be a sponsor of the Sean Hannity show and help Americans across the country learn more about diversifying with precious metals.” Speaking about the exclusive advertising deal, Sean Hannity says, “I am looking forward to working closely with a gold company that has such a stellar reputation in the industry. For those who are thinking about investing in gold, the place I highly recommend is Goldline.”
KIRO, Seattle Extends Contracts of Kevin Calabro and Jim Moore. Bonneville’s 710 ESPN Seattle (KIRO) adds an hour to the Kevin Calabro show – now airing from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm daily – and gives
contract extensions to host Kevin Calabro and co-host Jim Moore. Station GM Dave Pridemore notes the program is currently the #1-rated show in the Men 25-54 demo and says, “We are thrilled to have Kevin and Jim continue to anchor our afternoon drive into the future. Kevin’s connection to the Seattle sports audience, dedication to the craft and loyalty make him a true professional and advocate for this entire region.”
WTKK-FM, Boston Adds Pollster Scott Rasmussen for Weekly AM Drive Appearance. Rasmussen is the founder of Rasmussen Reports – the public opinion polling firm – and a frequent guest on
cable news/talk TV shows as well as a talk show host in his own right. Now, Greater Media’s WTKK-FM, Boston announces Rasmussen will make a weekly appearance on its AM drive show with Jim Braude and Margery Eagan every Wednesday at 7:45. Braude says, “Scott Rasmussen is as good as they come, his insight on topics that Bostonians and New Englanders care about is unmatchable.” Eagan notes, “He knows what Americans are thinking about, everything from politics to laundry detergent.”
Pop Culture AM Drive Hosts Chaz and AJ Simulcast in New Haven and Norwalk, Connecticut. Cox Media Group gives talk-intensive rock WPLR, New Haven morning drive hosts Chaz and AJ another market as the duo’s program begins a simulcast on the company’s classic rock WFOX, Norwalk, Connecticut. The show is described as a mix of humor, politics and water cooler talk. Keith Dakin, who programs both stations, says, “This move just makes sense. I am extremely excited to extend the reach of Chaz and AJ to the residents of Fairfield County who have never been able to hear the show. These guys really deliver for Connecticut and I expect big things from them on WFOX.”
Marty Basch Joins CBS Radio Las Vegas as VP/Director of Sales. Basch has worked for CBS Radio in the recent past. He left two years ago to take the EVP/GM position with Kemp Broadcasting. Now he returns to the company as vice president and director of sales for the six-station cluster that includes news/talk KXNT-AM/FM.
Obama Deficit Reduction Plan, Palestinian-U.N. Issue, European Economic Jitters and 2012 Presidential Race Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/19). President Obama’s plan to cut the nation’s deficit, the Palestinian plea to the U.N. for statehood, continued jitters in Europe over Greek debt and the GOP contenders for president in 2012 were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday.
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