Tag: "Nielsen"
December PPM Ratings Takeaways – Round One
December 2019 PPM Data – Information for the December 2019 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago,
San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Long Island (Nassau-Suffolk), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen Audio’s December 2019 survey period covered November 7 – December 4. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from the PPM markets below.
New York City
Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to being down a combined four-tenths in November/December (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” departs the top twenty (#19 to #21). Owing to an increase of three-tenths (1.0 – 1.3, #22, 6+), news/talk WABC overtakes Townsquare Media’s similarly-formatted WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” (1.1, +.1, #23, 6+). WABC and WKXW were tied at #22 in October and November. Prior to December, “New Jersey 101.5” had been off three-tenths via four straight down or flat trends (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0, 6+).
A decrease of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.0, 6+) takes Entercom sports talk WFAN-FM (Giants, Brooklyn Nets) to its lowest 6+-stat since March (3.0, as well); New York City’s “Fan” exits the top ten (#7 to #11). WFAN-FM replaced September’s -.6 with an October +.6 (3.8 – 3.2 – 3.8, 6+). A combined -.3 in November/December (2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+), WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets, Knicks, Rangers) drops from #19 to #20.
Without a loss the past four reports for a net gain of four-tenths (3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6, 6+), Entercom-owned all-news WINS regresses by one-tenth to 3.5 (6+) yet climbs from ninth to eighth. Despite gaining one-tenth to 2.6, its best 6+-showing since May (2.6, as well), co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM backslides from #15 to #16. Prior to August’s improvement of one-tenth, WCBS-AM faltered by a collective full-share via four straight declines (3.4 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+).
In six successive reports without a loss (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.2, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM is an overall +1.1 and jumps from #14 to #11. Co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM has nearly tripled (+.3) its 6+ AQH share via six consecutive up or flat trends (.2 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .5, #28 to #30, 6+).
New York City Music Formats – Reflected in this sweep are results by certain stations employing the all-Christmas music programming strategy. Included in that group is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM,” which is +2.5 to 9.6 (6+) and #1 the 30th ratings period in succession. The increase halts three consecutive down or flat moves that resulted in an overall loss of six-tenths (7.7 – 7.7 – 7.4 – 7.1, 6+). WLTW betters by one-half share its 6+-stat from one year ago (9.1, 6+, December 2018). Not only does Entercom hot AC WNEW-FM enter the top ten (#11 to #6), “NEW 102.7” posts a December increase of seven-tenths and crosses the four-share threshold (3.4 – 4.1, 6+). Its classic hits-oldies sibling WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits,” however, erodes by one full-share to 4.9 (second to fourth, 6+). “New York’s Greatest Hits” had been within 5.4 – 5.9 range (6+) in each of the last ten reports and was an overall +.2 via four straight up or flat moves (5.7 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 5.9, 6+). Albeit a collective -1.1 in four successive sweeps without an increase (4.3 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+) and logging its lowest 6+-showing since January (3.2, as well), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1” progresses from #13 to #11. Slipping from fourth to fifth, co-owned CHR WHTZ “Z-100 – New York’s #1 Hit Music Station” has lost an overall half-share in four successive dips (5.3 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 5.0 – 4.8, 6+). Also in that iHM cluster, classic rock WAXQ “Q-104.3” is down a collective half-share (as well) via three down or flat moves in a row (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8, sixth to seventh, 6+).
Los Angeles
Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -1.6 through six successive down or flat sweeps (4.5 – 4.3 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+),
iHeartMedia news/talk KFI “AM 640” slips from eighth to tenth. KFI was a combined +.8 in May/June (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.5, 6+). Its internet stream logged a .8 (6+) in May but has been a “no show” ever since. Separated by four-tenths are Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer,” which repeats November’s 6+ share (1.0) and market rank (#32); iHeartMedia-owned KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” (.8 – .6, -.2, #33 to #35, 6+); and Cumulus Media’s KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” (flat at .6, #38 to #35, 6+).
Back-to-back at #30 and #31, respectively, are Disney-owned sports talk (Rams, Lakers) KSPN “710 ESPN” (1.2, -.3, #25 to #30) and iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KLAC (Chargers, Clippers) “AM 570 LA Sports” (1.3 – 1.1, -.2, flat at #31, 6+). KSPN nearly doubled (+.7) its 6+ AQH share in three successive up or flat moves (.8 – .8 – 1.1 – 1.5, 6+). KLAC’s November loss of one-half share purged its combined September/October +.5 (1.3 – 1.4 – 1.8 – 1.3, 6+). In June and July, KLAC and KSPN were deadlocked at #27 (1.4, 6+).
Immediately after notching a November 3.0 – its best 6+-stat since 3.1 in March – Entercom all-news KNX “1070 News Radio” relinquishes two-tenths to 2.8 (6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #12, 6+). Its August 2019 through October 2019 topline was: 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.6 (6+).
Down three-tenths in November, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” regains two-tenths (2.1 – 2.3, 6+) and returns to the top twenty (#22 to #17).
Los Angeles Music Formats – Playing all-Christmas music for the 19th holiday season in a row, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST “Coast 103.5” hangs out a whopping +4.1 (5.2 – 9.3, 6+) and marches from second to first. Its 9.3 is a three-tenths improvement over December 2018’s 9.0 (6+). “Coast” had been in a 5.8 – 5.9 – 5.8 – 5.9 pattern (June – July – August – September, 6+), before sputtering by seven-tenths in October. After setting the pace 12 ratings periods in succession, KOST shifted to the runner-up slot in October. Having occupied the top spot in October and November, KRTH “K-Earth 101” (5.9 – 5.8, -.1, 6+) segues to the runner-up slot. Three consecutive up or flat moves by “K-Earth” yielded nine-tenths (5.0 – 5.6 – 5.9 – 5.9). When the Entercom classic hits-oldies outlet added six-tenths in September, it curtailed three downward trends in succession that accounted for a collective loss of eight-tenths (5.8 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+). Prior to October 2019, KRTH last reached the #1 spot in October 2018 (5.0, 6+). Following seven straight sweeps without a loss for an overall +1.1 (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” surrenders six-tenths to 3.5 (fourth to sixth, 6+). In advance of the October report, “K-Love” last reached the four-share level in February 2018 (4.0, as well). Not only does it drop from #12 to #13, Meruelo Media Holdings’ KLOS “95.5 Southern California’s Classic Rock” is without an increase the sixth month in a row for a net loss of seven-tenths (3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 2.8 – 2.6, 6+). Off a collective six-tenths in five consecutive down or flat sweeps (2.6 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KSCA “LA 101.9” shifts from #21 to #22. Tied at #14 are iHeartMedia-owned alternative KYSR “Alt 98.7” (2.7 – 2.4, -.3, #13 to #14, 6+) and Entercom’s similarly-formatted KROQ (2.6 – 2.4, -.2, #15 to #14, 6+). Before dropping four-tenths in October, KYSR had gained seven-tenths in four consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+). Similarly, KROQ was +.5 as a result of four successive up or neutral reports (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+) but lost two-tenths in October. KYSR and KROQ were up two-tenths and four-tenths, respectively, in November.
Chicago
Spoken-Word Formats – Three spikes in a row by Nexstar Media Group news/talk WGN resulted in a +1.2 (2.8 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 4.0, 6+), but “Radio 720” forfeits one-half share to 3.5 (6+) yet progresses from eighth to seventh. WGN was locked on 2.9 (6+) in April and May and then on 3.0 (6+) in June and July. For the third month in succession, Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-AM posts a 2.3 (6+) and remains at #18.
A combined -1.2 in November/December (4.3 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls) slips from #13 to #14. “The Score” had been up an overall half-share in three straight sweeps without a decrease (3.8 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+). Three bumps in a row by Disney/ESPN-owned WMVP accounted for a +.5 (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.9, 6+), but “ESPN Chicago 1000” surrenders three-tenths to 1.6 (#22 to #23, 6+).
Down one-tenth (5.1 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom all-news WBBM-AM (Bears) falls from a three-way deadlock at #1 to #3. Its October increase of one-tenth curtailed eight successive down or neutral moves that accounted for an overall -1.4 (6.2 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+).
Not only is WBEZ +1.0 in six successive sweeps without a loss (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), the Chicago Public Media news/talk outlet leaps into the top ten (#11 to #7).
Chicago Music Formats – More than doubling November’s 6+-stat, iHeartMedia’s WLIT zooms from fifth to first. Moreover, “93.9 Lite FM” is a collective +5.3 via three straight bumps (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 9.5, 6+) and exceeds December 2018’s 8.4 showing by +1.1. Its +4.8 is the largest (6+) November 2019 – December 2019 uptick by any station in the 12 PPM-markets shown here. Conversely, Hubbard Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHE “100.3 SHE,” which was a combined +1.2 in October/November (2.9 – 3.4 – 4.1, 6+), sputters by seven-tenths to 3.4 (seventh to tenth, 6+). Before faltering by one-half share in May, WSHE notched an overall increase of eight-tenths via four consecutive positive or flat moves (2.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). Also in the AC format, Venture Technologies Group-owned WRME-LP “FM 87.7 – Me TV,” which gained a collective six-tenths as a result of three upticks in a row (2.9 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+), loses two-tenths to 3.3 (#11 to #12, 6+). After logging three gains in succession for a collective increase of six-tenths (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), WRME-LP returned two-tenths in August. WSHE is tied at #10 with its hot AC sibling, WTMX “101.9 The Mix,” which is now a combined -2.1 in November/December (5.5 – 4.4 – 3.4, sixth to tenth, 6+). This directly follows October’s +1.3 (4.2 – 5.5, 6+). “The Mix” exited the top spot in September when it eroded by -1.5 (5.7 – 4.2, 6+). In July, the combination of a three-tenths uptick by WTMX classic rock sibling WDRV “97.1 The Drive” and an equal margin decrease by “The Mix” resulted in the cluster-mates swapping places at first and second. In August, “The Mix” notched a +.5 (5.2 – 5.7, 6+) and proceeded from second to first. WTMX was #1 in April, May, and June before giving way to “The Drive” in July; April’s 5.9 was the highest 6+-stat for “Mix” since November 2017’s 6.3. Tied with WBBM-AM at #1 in November (see above), iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ “V-103” regains the three-tenths it lost this time last month (5.4 – 5.1 – 5.4, 6+) but segues to second-place, while Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WLS-FM “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” returns November’s +.3 (4.8 – 5.1 – 4.8, 6+) and slides from that three-way tie at #1 to #4. “V-103” had a September-only stay at #1. October’s loss of three-tenths ended WVAZ’s string of three straight increases that netted a +1.4 (4.3 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.7, 6+). In September, “V-103” recorded its best 6+-stat since October 2018 (5.7, as well), which had been the last time WVAZ reached #1. Meanwhile, November’s 5.1 was the highest 6+-showing for “Chicago’s Classic Hits” in more than a year (5.4, September 2018). After being down or flat the past eight reports and losing roughly half (-.6) its 6+ AQH share in that March 2019 through November 2019 stretch (1.3 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .7 – .7, Window to the World Communications’ WFMT “98.7 – Chicago’s Classical and Folk Music Radio” ends the slide with a +.1 to .8 (#31 to #30, 6+).
San Francisco
Spoken-Word Formats. As a result of three straight up or flat trends, Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO nets six-tenths (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0 –
2.3, 6+) and is unchanged at #14. July 2019’s 1.7 (6+) marked the first time KSFO fell below a two-share since July 2017’s 1.8. Flat at #22, cluster-mate KGO has a June 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.5 (6+). Stuck on .2 (6+) in July and August and then on .3 (6+) in September and October, iHeartMedia-owned KKSF-AM “Real Talk 910 – Think Forward” is locked on .2 (#35 to #33, 6+) in November and December.
Down three-tenths in November/December (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.7, 6+), Cumulus Media sports talk KNBR-AM “The Sports Leader” (49ers) continues in seventh-place. After netting a collective half-share via three straight upticks (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) has that increase wiped away in its entirety (1.5, -.5, 6+) and fades from the top twenty (#14 to #22). KGMZ nearly doubled (+1.5) its 6+-stat in three straight sweeps without a loss, (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 3.3, 6+) and then had three consecutive declines that accounted for a -1.8 (3.3 – 3.0 – 1.9 – 1.5, 6+).
Albeit down four-tenths to 7.8 (6+), KGMZ all-news sibling KCBS-AM (Raiders) is #1 the fourth month in a row. Prior to September, KCBS-AM – which was +1.8 in October/November (6.4 – 7.0 – 8.2, 6+) – last reached #1 in May.
Remaining in the runner-up slot, California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED obliterates September/October’s -1.2 (7.1 – 6.4 – 5.9, 6+) with a November/December +1.6 (5.9 – 7.3 – 7.5, 6+). KQED was San Francisco’s first-place finisher in June, July, August, and tied at the top (with KCBS-AM) in September. This (7.5) is its best 6+-stat since 8.0 in January. Without an increase the past four sweeps for an overall -.3 (1.0 – .9 – .7 – .7 – .7, 6+), San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” ends the slide with a +.1 to .8 (flat at #28, 6+).
San Francisco Music Formats – Following six consecutive down or flat trends that accounted for an overall decrease of seven-tenths (2.0 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.3, 6+), Bonneville-owned KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock” applies the brakes with a +.1 to 1.4 (flat at #26, 6+). This just-concluded streak directly trailed five straight reports without a loss for a net gain of seven-tenths (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 2.0, 6+). Having lost an overall six-tenths in four successive down or flat trends (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.5, 6+), adult contemporary sibling KOIT-FM busts out a +1.3 to 4.8 (6+) and zooms from ninth to third. This time last year, “96.5 “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” logged a 6.4 (December 2018, 6+). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KISQ “98.1 The Breeze,” which was up an overall nine-tenths via five successive positive or neutral trends (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.5, 6+) and had its best 6+-stat (4.5) since 5.0 in March, surrenders one-tenth to 4.4 (flat at #4, 6+). Contrasted to KOIT-FM’s +1.3 in December, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN “107.7 The Bone” is -1.3 to 3.5 (third to tenth, 6+). “The Bone” had been trending 4.8 – 4.4 – 4.8 (September – October – November, 6+). Within 3.0 – 3.9 range (6+) 16 sweeps in succession, KMEL “#1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” gained two-tenths in November to 4.1. The iHeartMedia urban contemporary nets eight tenths in three successive up or flat trends (3.3 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1, steady at #6, 6+). Up eight-tenths via three bumps in a row (3.0 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), Bonneville CHR KMVQ “99.7 Now – The Bay’s #1 For All The Hits” falters by two-tenths to 3.6 (6+) but stays in eighth-place. Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” has lost one-half share as a result of four straight down or flat moves (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.0 – 2.0, #14 to #18, 6+).
Dallas
Spoken-Word Formats – Up eight-tenths in October/November (3.6 – 4.1 – 4.4, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WBAP falters by three-tenths in November to 4.1 (fifth to ninth, 6+). “News Talk 820” was a collective a +1.8 from “Holiday” 2018 through June 2019 (2.3 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+). In seven successive up or flat sweeps, co-owned KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” doubles (+.3) its 6+ AQH share (.3 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .6, steady at #34, 6+). Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer” is off one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.5 – .4 – .3, #36 to #37, 6+).
The July 2019 through December 2019 topline for Entercom’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) is: 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.3 (#20 to #18, 6+).
Negative or neutral the ninth report in succession (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2, flat at #26, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports All The Time” (Stars) has lost roughly 55% (-1.5) of its 6+ AQH share. Meanwhile, Disney/ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” (Mavericks) posts its fifth consecutive up or flat trend for a collective gain of four-tenths (.7 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1, #29 to #28, 6+).
Flat at #22, Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” has a July 2019 through December 2019 topline of: 1.8 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 (6+).
Following four straight months of logging a 3.2 (6+), North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA slips two-tenths to 3.0 (6+) but remains at #13.
Dallas Music Formats – This marks the fourth uptick in a row for iHeartMedia adult contemporary KDGE, which is a collective +2.3 in that stretch (2.7 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.8 – 5.0, 6+). “Star 102.1” vaults from ninth to third and is basically even with December 2018’s 5.1 (6+). Off seven-tenths in October/November (3.3 – 2.9 – 2.6, 6+), Entercom regional Mexican KMVK “La Grande 107.5” answers with a December increase of nine-tenths to 3.5 (#16 to #10, 6+), reaching the three-share level (3.5) for the first time since May’s 3.0. Cumulus Media-owned, country-formatted KPLX “99.5 The Wolf,” which lost a combined half-share in October/November (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+), fully erases that deficit with a +.5 to 4.4 (eighth to seventh, 6+). “The Wolf” was locked on 3.9 (6+) in July and August, before notching a one-half share improvement in September. Cluster-mate KSCS “New Country 96.3,” which was a combined +1.7 in October/November (3.2 – 3.6 – 4.9, 6+), drops two-tenths to 4.7 (third to fourth, 6+). In November, KSCS crossed the four-share level (4.9, 6+) for the first time since February’s 4.1. Its October gain halted three straight losses that resulted in a cumulative decrease of six-tenths (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). Off a collective nine-tenths via four successive downturns (5.1 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned classic rock KZPS “Lone Star 92.5” ends the slide with a +.1 to 4.3 (6+) but drops from seventh to eighth. Down a cumulative full-share in four straight negative or neutral sweeps (6.7 – 6.5 – 6.5 – 6.2 – 5.7, 6+), CHR cluster-mate KHKS “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” nonetheless repeats at #1. “Kiss” had been the market leader nine months in a row before slipping to second in October. An August increase of nine-tenths wiped away the collective nine-tenths KHKS lost as a result of three straight negative or neutral moves (6.7 – 6.3 – 5.8 – 5.8, 6+). Its May dip of four-tenths brought to a close four successive up or flat sweeps that netted eight-tenths (5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.7, 6+). April’s 6.7 was the best 6+-stat for “Kiss” since May 2018’s 6.9. Immediately after Educational Media Foundation-owned contemporary Christian KYDA dialed up a November +1.2 (2.2 – 3.4, 6+), “Air 1 – Worship Now” surrenders that increase in its entirety (2.2, -1.2, #11 to #20, 6+). Stuck on 3.1 (6+) in September, October, and November, Entercom adult hits KJKK “100.3 Jack-FM Playing What We Want” sputters by eight-tenths to 2.3 (#14 to #18, 6+).
Houston
Spoken-Word Formats – Four straight positive or neutral moves by iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH have generated a gain of eight-tenths
(3.3 – 3.4 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+) as “News Radio 740” moves into the top ten (#11 to #8). This directly follows a net loss of one-half share in four successive down or flat reports (3.8 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.3, 6+). After logging a .3 (6+) in each of the past three monthlies, co-owned KPRC “AM 950 – Houston’s More Stimulating Talk Radio” picks up one-tenth to .4 (#29 to #28, 6+).
As a result of six consecutive up or flat moves, Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” (Texans) has gained six-tenths (1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.6, #23 to #22, 6+). A combined +.4 in October/November (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KBME “Sports Talk 790” (Rockets) erodes by nine-tenths to .6 (#22 to #25, 6+). Up one-tenth in back-to-back reports (.5 – .6 – .7, 6+), Gow Communications’ sports talk KFNC “ESPN 97.5” is back to a .5 (flat at #26, 6+).
An overall +.8 in four straight reports without a loss (2.3 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), University of Houston news/talk KUHF advances from #16 to #15.
Houston Music Formats – Pulling the plug on 11 straight sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA “Sunny 99.1” hauls out a +2.0 to 7.8 (6+) and marches from third to first. This time last year, “Sunny” recorded a 9.7 (December 2018, 6+). In the just-concluded negative streak, KODA lost roughly 52% (-6.3) of its 6+ AQH share (12.1 – 8.6 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.6 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.8, 6+). KODA was the market leader 16 sweeps in a row before segueing to #2 in August. It had been more than two years since KODA slipped below a six-share (June 2017, 5.8, 6+). Up three-tenths (6.8 – 7.1, 6+), Radio One urban AC KMJQ “Majic 102.1 The People’s Station” nonetheless downshifts to #2, after four straight months at #1. Prior to September’s 7.1 (6+), KMJQ – which was a combined +1.3 in August/September (5.8 – 6.2 – 7.1, 6+), last crossed the seven-share threshold (6+) in May 2018 (7.2). Ups/downs continue for Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK “The Eagle,” which was an overall +1.3 in three spikes in succession (5.3 – 5.5 – 6.5 – 6.6, 6+); -1.0 in November to 5.6 (6+); and now +.5 in December to 6.1 (flat at #4, 6+). October 2019’s 6.6 was its highest 6+-stat since September 2017 (6.7). Despite logging its sixth straight uptick for a collective +1.9 (4.9 – 5.0 – 5.1 – 5.6 – 6.5 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN “Que Buena 102.9” backslides from second to third. This (6.8) is its best 6+-showing since January (7.0). Sputtering by six-tenths each are Entercom’s country-formatted KILT-FM “100.3 The Bull” (4.7 – 4.1, seventh to eighth, 6+) and its format rival, Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group’s KKBQ “The New Country 93-Q” (3.9, #8 to #12, 6+). Having dropped an overall half-share in three slips in succession (4.6 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+), “The Bull” responded in November with an increase of six-tenths. Before losing two-tenths in March, KILT-FM had been +1.7 via three improvements in a row (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.5 – 5.2, 6+). KKBQ’s June 2019 through November 2019 topline was: 4.8 – 4.7- 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.5 (6+). Stuck on 4.5 (6+) in October and November, iHeartMedia alternative KTBZ “94.5 The Buzz” surrenders one-half share to 4.0 (eighth to tenth, 6+).
Atlanta
Spoken-Word Formats – Following five straight up or flat trends that yielded an overall +3.0 (6.3 – 6.6 – 7.6 – 7.6 – 8.2 – 9.3, 6+), Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM returns two-tenths to 9.1 (6+) but is #1 the fifth month in a row. Separated by one-tenth of a share are Entercom’s WAOK “1380 The Voice of the Community” (.4 – .3, -.1, flat at #29, 6+); Salem Media Group-owned WGKA “AM 920 The Answer” (steady at .3, #30 to #29, 6+); and iHeartMedia-owned WGST “Talk Radio 640” (flat at .2, unchanged at #31, 6+). WAOK had doubled (+.2) its 6+ stat in five successive reports without a loss (.2 – .2 – .3 – .4 – .4 – .4, 6+).
Entercom sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Falcons), which was +2.3 via four successive upticks (2.8 – 3.4 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 5.1, 6+), drops two-tenths to 4.9 (steady at #7, 6+). Before August’s increase, “The Game” was an overall -1.2 in five straight negative or neutral sweeps (4.0 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 2.8, 6+). Following seven consecutive monthlies without a loss for a net gain of +1.1 (1.6 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.7, 6+), Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN is now a combined -1.0 in three drops in a row (2.7 – 2.5 – 1.8 – 1.7, #18 to #20, 6+).
Within 3.2 – 3.7 range (6+) the tenth sweep in a row (3.4 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+), City of Atlanta Board of Education’s WABE advances from #14 to #11. Georgia State University news/talk WRAS repeats November’s 6+ AQH share and market rank (.8, #26).
Atlanta Music Formats – Following five decreases in a row for an approximately 56% erosion (-4.9) of its 6+ AQH share (8.8 – 8.5 – 4.7 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 3.9, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “104.7 The Fish” applies the brakes with a +.9 to 4.8 (6+) and carries on in eighth-place. WFSH had been #1 four straight months before shifting to #7 in August. When “The Fish” lost three-tenths in July, it halted at five a consecutive string of bumps that netted an overall +3.9 (4.9 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 7.0 – 7.9 – 8.8, 6+). Dropping six-tenths each are Apollo Global Management/Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV “97.1 The River” (unchanged at #5) and Radio One gospel WPZE “Praise 102.5 Atlanta’s Inspiration Station” (#12 to #15). “The River” is -1.3 in three drops in a row (6.5 – 5.9 – 5.8 – 5.2, 6+). Ironically, WPZE had been +1.3 via three successive up or flat moves (2.8 – 2.8 – 3.7 – 4.1, 6+) but – continuing the theme – is now a combined -1.3 in November/December (4.1 – 3.4 – 2.8, 6+). Within 2.1 – 2.8 range (6+) in each of the last 14 ratings periods, Cumulus Media’s WNNX “100.5 Atlanta’s Rock Station” falters by one-half share to 1.8 (#17 to #18, 6+). Co-owned CHR WWWQ “Q-100 Atlanta’s New Hits” continues an alternating down/up pattern that began in July (3.6 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 2.7 – 3.4 – 3.3, #12 to #13, 6+). Its format rival, iHeartMedia’s WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station,” is a cumulative +1.1 in three straight spikes (2.9 – 3.1 – 3.6 – 4.0, 6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Down a full-share in six straight sweeps without an increase (3.4 – 3.4 – 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.4, 6+), Entercom hot AC WSTR “Star 94.1” continues at #16. The eight-tenths of a share lead that iHeartMedia’s country-formatted WUBL “94.9 The Bull” had over Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits” is sliced in half as “The Bull” is a collective -1.2 in three successive slips (4.9 – 4.3 – 3.8 – 3.7, ninth to tenth, 6+), while “Kicks” adds three-tenths to November’s increase of six-tenths (2.4 – 3.0 – 3.3, #15 to #13, 6+). A combined +.4 in August/September (2.5 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), “Kicks” was off one-half share in October. August’s increase halted three straight dips that resulted in a net loss of six-tenths (3.1 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+). The April 2019 through July 2019 topline for “The Bull” was 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 4.1 (6+).
Philadelphia
Spoken-Word Formats – It is a repeat of November’s 6+ AQH share and market rank for Entercom-owned WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” (2.2,
#19, 6+). Without a decrease the fifth sweep in succession for a +.3 (.7 – .8 – .8 – .9 – .9 – 1.0, 6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” advances from #25 to #24.
A combined +1.6 in October/November (6.6 – 7.5 – 8.2, 6+), Entercom sports talk WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” (Eagles) forfeits all but one-tenth of that increase (6.7, -1.5, 6+) and drops from first – where it had been the past three months – to third. November’s 8.2 was its best 6+-stat since February 2018’s 8.7. WIP gained eight-tenths in August. Even though it’s up a collective nine-tenths via six straight reports without a loss (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers, Flyers) downshifts from #12 to #14. Prior to November, the last time “The Fanatic” reached the three-share level (6+) was in March (3.0, as well).
After eight sweeps in succession without an increase that resulted in an overall -1.6 (5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.4, 6+), Entercom’s KYW “News Radio 1060” is up one-half share as a result of three consecutive up or flat moves (3.4 – 3.5 – 3.9 – 3.9, 6+) and repeats at #10.
Having forfeited four-tenths in November, public radio news/talk WHYY rebounds with a +.7 (3.3 – 4.0, 6+) and is back in the top ten (#11 to #8). Entering the November sweep, WHYY was a cumulative +1.2 In four straight up or neutral reports (2.5 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.7, 6+).
Philadelphia Music Formats – The rollercoaster ride continues for Entercom adult contemporary WBEB. Specifically, “B-101.1 More Music/More Variety” was +1.1 in three straight upticks (5.5 – 5.6 – 6.1 – 6.6, 6+); -1.2 in November (6.6 – 5.4, 6+); and is now a whopping +3.5 to 8.9 (6+), rocketing from sixth to first. WBEB logged a 10.4 (6+) in December 2018. In its last three survey periods, iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WISX “106.1 The Breeze” has lost a total of nine-tenths (4.9 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.0, 6+) and carries on in eighth-place. Conversely, Beasley Media Group-owned WMGK “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” is a combined +1.0 in the last three reports (6.5 – 6.6 – 7.5 – 7.5, 6+) and remains in the runner-up slot. A one-half share boost (3.0 – 3.5, steady at #12, 6+) takes Beasley Media Group adult hits WBEN-FM “95.7 Ben FM – Playing Anything We Feel Like” to its best 6+-showing (3.5) since June 2016’s 3.7. Entercom classic hits-oldies WOGL “Nobody Plays More 80s” is a combined -1.1 in October/November (5.8 – 5.6 – 4.7, fifth to sixth, 6+). The last time WOGL fell below a five-share (6+) was just over four years ago (October 2015, 4.6, 6+). Thus far in 2019, Entercom sports talk WIP was on top in January; WOGL was #1 in February; WBEB led the way in March; WMGK set the pace in April; WBEB did so in May and June; WMGK returned to #1 in July and August; WIP and iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM were tied for the lead in September; WIP was #1 in October and November; and WBEB is back on top in December. Mega-Philadelphia LLC-owned/Camden, New Jersey-licensed Spanish tropical WEMG “La Mega 105.7 – Today’s Hottest Hits” has more than quadrupled its September numbers (.3 – .6 – 1.2 – 1.3, 6+) and repeats at #22. Faltering by eight-tenths each are Beasley Media Group-owned WMMR “93.3 Everything That Rocks” (6.1 – 5.3, fourth to fifth, 6+) and Entercom-owned WXTU “Philly’s Country Station 92.5 XTU,” which is a collective -1.5 in three drops in succession (5.7 – 5.1 – 5.0 – 4.2, flat at #7, 6+). Before picking up one-tenth in November, WMMR had lost an overall four-tenths in five successive sweeps without an increase (6.4 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 6.0, 6+). Significant swings continue for iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUSL “Power 99,” which was +.8 in four successive (February through June) up or flat trends (3.7 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.5, 6+); -.6 in July/August (4.5 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+); +1.1 in September; and now a combined -1.4 in the last three sweeps (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.0 – 3.6, #9 to #11, 6+). September’s 5.0 was its best 6+-performance in more than two years (5.6, July 2017).
Long Island
Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -1.4 through four straight down or flat trends (4.7 – 4.5 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” exits the top ten (#9 to #11). In an alternating up/down pattern, news/talk WABC was down two-tenths in October; up one-tenth in November; and is now down one-tenth in December (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.1, #26 to #27, 6+).
In addition to being a combined -1.6 in November/December (6.4 – 6.1 – 4.8, 6+), Entercom sports talk WFAN-FM (Giants, Brooklyn Nets) drops from first to fourth. Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets, Knicks, Rangers), which was a collective +.8 in four consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), falters by two-tenths to 2.5 (#14 to #15, 6+).
Entercom’s all-news WINS answers October’s -.7 with a November/December +.5 (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+) and enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Off three-tenths in July, WINS followed with a +1.1 in August/September (2.7 – 2.9 – 3.8, 6+). A combined -.8 in October/November (3.2 – 2.7 – 2.4, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM gains two-tenths (2.6, #17 to #14, 6+).
Up one-tenth (1.5 – 1.6, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM is flat at #23.
Long Island Music Formats – Not only does iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW more than double November’s stat (3.2 – 6.7, +3.5, 6+), “106.7 Lite FM” catapults from a three-way tie at #11 all the way to #1. Last year at this time, WLTW notched a 6.3 (December 2018, 6+). Six-tenths behind “Lite FM” is Connoisseur Media hot AC WALK-FM “97.5 Real Variety,” which is a collective +2.3 via three successive upticks (3.8 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 6.1, third to second, 6+). This is the best 6+-stat for WALK-FM since “Holiday” 2018’s 10.5. Meanwhile, classic hits-oldies sibling WBZO “Max FM” forfeits in full the six-tenths it earned in November (2.9 – 3.5 – 2.9, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #12). “Max FM” netted nine-tenths through three bumps in succession (2.1 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 3.0, 6+), immediately following a collective -1.6 via three straight drops (3.7 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1, 6+). When iHeartMedia’s WAXQ gained four-tenths in November, it halted three straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a collective -1.0 (4.6 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.6, 6+). In November, however, “Q-104.3 New York’s Classic Rock” surrenders one-half share to 3.5 (eighth to tenth, 6+). The April 2019 through November 2019 topline for Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WPLJ “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” is: 2.2 – 1.9 – 1.5 – .5 – 0.0 – .4 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 (#26 to #25, 6+). When EMF officially closed on its purchase of WPLJ from Cumulus Media on May 31, it transitioned the station from hot AC to contemporary Christian.
Riverside
Spoken-Word Formats – After recording a .1 (6+) in August, September, and October, iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE”
is a “no-show” for the second month in a row. KKDD was unlisted in May, June and July, as well.
Co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” is without an increase the seventh time in succession (.2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, #22 to #21, 6+). Similarly-formatted/Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC) KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” does not appear in print the 24th straight sweep.
Repeating November’s .7 (6+), San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR inches up from #15 to #14. In addition to gaining one-tenth to .2 (6+), thus halting four straight down or flat reports that accounted for a net loss of two-tenths (.3 – .3 – .3 – .2 – .1, 6+), Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” re-enters the top twenty (#22 to #20).
Riverside Music Formats – Following November’s half-share increase, Entravision Spanish adult hits KLYY “Jose” regresses by three-tenths (8.2 – 7.9, 6+) but repeats at #1. KLYY was +1.3 in July/August (6.2 – 6.7 – 7.5, 6+). Immediately prior to the July report, “Jose” 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+); KLYY had been in the runner-up slot in April, May, June, and July. December 2018’s 10.5 marked the first time any Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario station reached double-figures (6+) since April 2015, when “Jose” recorded a 10.4. Dislodged from the top spot in November, after setting the pace in September and October, Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA is a combined -1.6 in November/December (7.9 – 7.3 – 6.3, 6+) and continues in the runner-up slot. September/October’s +1.0 (6.9 – 7.7 – 7.9, 6+) followed July/August’s -1.7 (8.6 – 7.6 – 6.9, 6+). KOLA was the market leader in April, May, June, and July before segueing to #2 in August. Immediately prior to July/August’s -1.7, KOLA was +1.8 via three successive positive spikes (6.8 – 7.2 – 8.0 – 8.6, 6+). Following four straight positive or neutral moves that netted a +1.6 (.3 – .3 – .4 – .8 – 1.9, 6+), Lazer Broadcasting regional Mexican KXRS “La Mejor 105.7 – Mas, Mas Musica” erodes by -1.4 to .5 (#11 to #16, 6+). In seven straight sweeps without a loss, co-owned/similarly-formatted KAEH doubled (+.3) its 6+ AQH share (.3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .5 – .6 – .6, 6+) but “Radio Lazer” is down one-tenth to .5 (6+) and ties KXRS at #16. By picking up two-tenths in November to 2.0 (6+), LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE pulled the plug on seven consecutive decreases that accounted for a loss of more than half (-1.9) its 6+-share (3.7 – 3.4 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+). In December though, “Old School 104.7” forfeits one-half share to 1.5 (ninth to tenth, 6+). As a result of five straight decreases, All-Pro Broadcasting adult contemporary KATY lost seven-tenths (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.1 – .8 – .7 – .6, 6+) but “101.3 The Mix” curtails the slide with an improvement of two-tenths to .8 (#16 to #13, 6+). Educational Media Foundation-owned contemporary Christian KLRD “Air 1 – Worship Now” (1.6, #11, June 2019, 6+) and co-owned/similarly-formatted KKLQ “Positive, Encouraging 100.3” (.7, #15, June 2019, 6+) – are unlisted for the sixth month in a row.
San Jose
Spoken-Word Formats – After being a collective +1.0 via four straight up or flat trends (1.4 – 1.8 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KGO loses one-tenth to 2.3 (6+) yet moves from #18 to a four-way scrum at #15. The just-concluded positive streak came directly after KGO surrendered more than 50% of its 6+ AQH share (-1.6) in ten straight negative or neutral San Jose sweeps (3.0 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+). Co-owned news/talk KSFO posts its third successive up or flat trend for a net gain of two-tenths (.8 – .9 – .9 – 1.0, #26 to #25, 6+). In August, KSFO gained two-tenths, thus halting three successive declines that accounted for a loss of roughly half (-.7) its 6+-stat (1.5 – 1.3 – 1.2 – .8, 6+).
Up nine-tenths in October/November (3.6 – 3.8 – 4.5, 6+), sports talk sibling KNBR-AM “The Sports Leader” (49ers) surrenders six-tenths to 3.9 (fifth to seventh, 6+). Off three-tenths to 2.3 (6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) is part of that aforementioned four-four tie at #15. “The Game” had been +1.6 in three successive spikes (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.8 – 2.6, 6+). September’s increase suspended three straight declines that eroded nearly two-thirds (-1.9) of its 6+ AQH share (2.9 – 2.4 – 1.6 – 1.0, 6+).
Immediately following a November boost of seven-tenths (5.2 – 5.9, 6+), Entercom all-news KCBS-AM (Raiders) forfeits eight-tenths to 5.1 (third to fourth, 6+).
It is a November-only stay at #1 for Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED, which follows November’s +1.0 with a December decrease of four-tenths (6.9 – 6.5, first to second, 6+). Prior to November, KQED last reached #1 in the San Jose report in April (6.9, 6+). San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW has lost roughly half (-.6) its 6+-share via five down or flat trends in a row (1.3 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .9 – .7, #26 to #27, 6+).
San Jose Music Formats – Locked on 3.8 (6+) in October and November, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “Amor 100.3” hauls out a +.7 to 4.5 (seventh to fifth, 6+). After having lost seven-tenths in September/October (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.4, 6+), Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “San Jose Hot Country 95.3” bounces back with a +1.1 in November/December (3.4 – 4.0 – 4.5, 6+) and ties KBRG at #5. Albeit flat at 6.6 (6+), Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY nonetheless progresses from second to first. Following six successive months at #1, “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” segued to #2 in November when it eroded by -2.0 (8.6 – 6.6, 6+). “Bay FM,” which was +1.3 in August, nearly erased April’s -1.5 with a May +1.3 (6.2 – 7.5, 6+), returning to #1 after an April-only stay at #2. An overall +1.2 owing to three spikes in succession (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “106.1 #1 For Hip-Hop and R&B” surrenders half that increase (2.7, -.6, 6+) and departs the top ten (#9 to #11). Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” regresses by one-half share in back-to-back sweeps (3.3 – 2.8 – 2.3, #12 to #15, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat in exactly one year (2.3, as well, December 2018). Rhythmic CHR cluster-mate KVVF “Latino Mix 105.7” is an overall -1.2 through six consecutive down or flat trends (2.9 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+) and departs the top twenty (#19 to #22). Unlisted in San Jose the 12th month in a row are Bonneville cluster-mates adult contemporary KOIT-FM “Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites”; CHR KMVQ “Now 99.7”; and urban AC KBLX “102.9 R&B and Old School.”
Middlesex-Somerset-Union
Spoken-Word Formats – There’s good news and bad news for Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW. On the plus side, “New Jersey
101.5” adds four-tenths to 5.6 (6+), thus applying the brakes to ten consecutive sweeps without an increase that resulted in a roughly 36% loss (-2.9) of its 6+-share (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.6 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 5.2, 6+). At the same time, however, WKXW slips from second to fourth. Immediately following four up or flat trends in a row that netted seven-tenths (2.9 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” is a combined -1.6 in November/December (3.6 – 3.0 – 2.0, 6+) and drifts from the top twenty (#16 to #21). The August 2019 through December 2019 Middlesex-Somerset-Union topline for news/talk WABC is: 1.2 – .8 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .9 (#24 to #25, 6+).
Major ups/downs continue for Entercom sports talk WFAN-FM (Giants, Brooklyn Nets), which was -.7 (September); +1.4 (October/November); and now -1.0 in December (5.1 – 4.1, third to eighth, 6+). Similarly-programmed WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets, Knicks, Rangers) is an overall +1.1 via four consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.6 – 1.7 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 2.7, #18 to #17, 6+), immediately after being down a collective nine-tenths through three consecutive negative or neutral trends (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+).
Posting a gain of four-tenths in back-to-back reports (1.4 – 1.8 – 2.2, 6+), Entercom all-news WCBS-AM re-enters the top twenty (#22 to #20). Prior to November, WCBS-AM was a collective -1.1 in four drops in a row (2.5 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.4, 6+). Co-owned/similarly-programmed WINS has lost three-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.8, #21 to #23, 6+). Its September loss of two-tenths suspended four consecutive increases that accounted for a one-half share gain (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+).
Up two-tenths (1.7 – 1.9, 6+), WNYC Broadcasting Foundation public radio news/talk WNYC-FM advances from #23 to #22.
Middlesex-Somerset-Union Music Formats – New York City’s pacesetter the 30th ratings period in succession (see above), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” has had a wild ride in Middlesex. “Lite FM” was -.5 (August/September); +.7 (October); -.9 (November); and is +2.5 in December (4.4 – 6.9, ninth to second, 6+). Its 6.9 (6+) is four-tenths better than the 6.5 (6+) recorded in December 2018. Meanwhile, Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WMGQ “Magic 98.3 – Today’s Hits/Yesterday’s Favorites” is a collective -1.5 in four consecutive down or flat trends (5.3 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 3.8, eighth to ninth, 6+). Steady in third-place, iHeartMedia-owned classic rock WAXQ “Q-104.3” is up eight-tenths in November/December (5.0 – 5.1 – 5.8, 6+). Not only is Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary WPAT an overall +1.7 via five straight up or flat moves (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.6 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+), “Amor 93.1” enters the top ten (#11 to #9). When Entercom classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM dropped two-tenths in November, it suspended five Middlesex spikes in a row that netted a +2.6 (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 5.8 – 6.6, 6+). In December, “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” chalks up an increase of six-tenths (6.4 – 7.0, 6+) and is #1 the third successive sweep. In addition to eroding by -1.0 (4.2 – 3.2, 6+), Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” exits the top ten (#10 to #13). November’s one-tenth decrease interrupted six consecutive up or flat moves that yielded a +1.6 (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 4.3, 6+). Substituting November’s +.6 with a December -.6 (3.2 – 3.8 – 3.2, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WNSH “New York’s Country 94.7” slips from #11 to #13. Off a cumulative eight-tenths the last three reports (3.1 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 KTU” drops from #17 to #18. After logging a .6 (6+) in October and November, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WARW “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” disappears from print.
Wednesday, July 31, 2019
Mitch Rosen Adds PD Duties for Sports Talk WSSP, Milwaukee. WSCR, Chicago “The Score” program director Mitch Rosen is going to begin double duty with Entercom and add programming responsibilities for sister sports talker WSSP-AM/W289CB, Milwaukee “105.7 The Fan.” He’s taking over for WSSP
program director Tom Parker, who is retiring on August 1. Parker will continue as a programming consultant. Entercom Milwaukee SVP and market manager Chuck Sullivan says, “Having worked closely with Jimmy de Castro and the Entercom Chicago team over the last year and a half, it was the logical next step in the partnership. Mitch has become quite familiar with the market and the WSSP staff over that time and we are very fortunate to now have him calling the plays in Milwaukee as well.” Rosen has been with “The Score” for almost 15 years. He adds, “It’s an honor to be part of this great Milwaukee sports brand. ‘The Fan’ team has great personalities who identify with the sports fans who live and breathe Milwaukee and Wisconsin sports. I plan to be here to help in any way I can to expand the brand both on the air and through all the digital platforms, including RADIO.COM Sports.”
SiriusXM Q2 Pro Forma Revenue Up 9%. Although SiriusXM is reporting its net income was down 10.8% in the second quarter of 2019 compared to the same period in 2018 ($263 million versus $293 million), the company’s pro forma
revenue was up 9%. The acquisition of Pandora pushed SiriusXM’s revenue to $2 billion – an increase of 38% over Q2 in 2018. Chief executive officerJim Meyer says, “Our company produced outstanding financial and operating results once again this quarter, and I’m pleased by the quick progress we’ve made in integrating Pandora. Revenues and adjusted EBITDA each reached records in the period. We’re thrilled with the results in the first half of the year, and we are raising 2019 guidance for revenue and adjusted EBITDA and reiterating our guidance for net subscriber additions and free cash flow.” The satcaster reports that it added 290,000 self-pay subscribers during the second quarter that puts its total at 29.3 million.
Nielsen Second Quarter Revenue Rises 1.2%. That 1.2% figure is for the company as a whole. The company reports that its Media segment – the one that includes radio ratings – is being driven by Total Audience Measurement and that during the second quarter of 2019 its audience measurement business is up 4.2% over the same period in 2018. Nielsen predicts that its audience measurement segment will finish 2019 up 2% to 3%.
Salem Selling Seven Florida Signals for $8.2 Million. Continuing to follow through on its plan to sell certain assets in order to reduce its debt, Salem Media Group is agreeing to divest itself of seven signals in the state of Florida. It has filed with the FCC to sell Spanish Christian-formatted WKAT-AM, business
talk WZAB-AM, and FM translator W249DM in Miami and Spanish Christian-formatted WLCC-AM, business talk WWMI, and FM translator W282CI in the Tampa market (plus the construction permit for translator W260DM, St. Petersburg) to Immaculate Heart Media for $8.2 million. Immaculate Heart Media will not get the WKAT call letters or that station’s intellectual property. These moves will leave Salem with Spanish Christian WOCN, Miami, plus news/talk WGUL, Tampa “AM 860 The Answer” and religious duo WTBN-AM/WTWD-AM, Tampa.
2020 Presidential Race/Democratic Debates, Capital One Hack, Immigration Policy/Border Conditions, North Korea Missile Tests, California Festival Shooting/Mississippi Walmart Shooting, and Katy Perry Song Copying Verdict Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/30). The Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and the first Democratic debate from Detroit; the hack of Capital One that made data from 100 million credit applicants vulnerable; the Trump Administration’s immigration policies and controversy over conditions at the U.S.-Mexico border; North Korea tests more short-range missiles; the deadly shootings at the Gilroy, California Garlic Festival and at a Walmart in Mississippi; and the jury’s ruling that Katy Perry copied aspects of a Christian rap song in her hit ‘Dark Horse’ were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS News Notes. Last week’s 19th annual “WSB Care-A-Thon 37-hour radio broadcast event raised more than $1.7 million for research and programs for the Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of
Atlanta, nearly breaking the record set in 2017. In the 19 years Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM and CHR WSB-FM have been hosting the fundraising broadcast, more than $24 million has been collected to support patients and families. WSB Radio director of branding and programming Pete Spriggs says, “There is an extraordinary local story to tell at the Aflac Cancer Center — one that is filled with emotion and hope. Our entire team considers it the honor of their careers to be able to tell that story and to meet the kids, parents, families, doctors, nurses, and caregivers there. But our listeners deserve all the credit, due to their incredible generosity year after year.” WSB personalities Scott Slade, Clark Howard, Eric Von Haessler, Mark Arum, Erick Erickson, Neal Boortz, and Brian Kilmeade took part in the 
broadcast…..ESPN Radio is reporting that its programming saw a 6% increase in listening with men 25-54 from the winter 2019 period (Jan., Feb., March) to the spring book (April, May, June). Breaking it down, the network’s “Golic and Wingo” saw a 6% combined increase for M25-54 in total audience across Nielsen subscribing stations in PPM markets on radio plus all platforms combined including television simulcasts. “The Will Cain Show” also had year-over-year increases across M25-54 PPM audience on terrestrial radio and ESPNEWS simulcast for both June and the spring book. The M25-54 total audience across all platforms for “The Stephen A Smith Show,” with the addition of its television simulcast which began August 13, 2018, grew 38% in June and 32% percent for the quarter from the same time periods in 2018. For the quarter, the ESPNEWS simulcast of “The Dan Le Batard
Show with Stugotz” was up 33% from last year. In June, the show saw a 9% year-over-year increase on ESPNEWS…..KTLK-AM, Minneapolis morning drive co-host Jon Justice has published his second sci-fi novel – part two of a series – titled, Embark: Treasure In Darkness. Justice has self-published the book that follows the story’s protagonists after humanity is forced to leave the Earth following an industrial disaster. Check out the Amazon listing here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Rhythmic oldies WPPZ, Philadelphia “Classix 107.9 FM” announces that “The Russ Parr Morning Show” is airing in the AM drive daypart. The Radio One station is programmed by Jay Dixon, who says, “This guy is fun, funny, and all about winning. I’ve heard about Russ Parr for years. He lives up to his reputation as a first-class broadcaster and content king. He’ll be the icing on the cake to make ‘Classix 107.9’ one of the greatest classic R&B brands in history. We are too happy to have him on board.”…..iHeartMedia’s hip hop “104.5 The BEAT” WTKS-HD2/W283AN, Orlando announces the lineup for its “The BEAT Music Fest” on Saturday, October 5 will feature DaBaby, YK Osiris, Afro B, Shordie Shordie, Summerella, Trap Beckham, with more to be announced. iHeartMedia Orlando partnerships manager Chianna Ray says, “The entire Greater Orlando area has been patiently waiting for a music festival that highlights the hip-hop culture. ‘The BEAT Music Fest’ could not have come at a better time and we are thrilled to give our listeners this experience.”…..iHeartMedia announces the lineup for the 2019 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina at AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami on Saturday, November 2 will include: Jennifer Lopez, Daddy Yankee, and Ozuna, with more artists to follow. For the fourth straight year, the concert event will be hosted by Enrique Santos, chairman and chief creative officer of iHeartLatino and on-air personality for iHeartRadio.
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Dan Le Batard Off Air Again Today. According to a story in The Washington Post, ESPN sports personality Dan Le Batard is off his radio program, “The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” and his cable TV show, “Highly Questionable,”
today (7/25) because he’s meeting in New York with ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro. Le Batard was off the air on Monday after he addressed the “Send her back!” chants directed toward Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar by Trump supporters at a recent Trump political rally. Le Batard was reminded by ESPN brass of the company’s mandate that politics are off limits on the sports network unless there’s a sports connection. Le Batard criticized that policy as well. He was, however, back on the air on Tuesday and Wednesday. FOX News coverage quotes former ESPN staffer and Le Batard friend Bill Simmons saying on his podcast that he doesn’t think Le Batard will remain with ESPN much longer. He calls him “a really proud guy, who I feel like at some point looked at it and said, ‘I have a platform, I’m on live radio right now and I’m just gonna use the platform for this and I know there is going to be repercussions.’”
PPM Analysis: Public Radio News/Talk.TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on public radio news/talk. Summer listening trends may be having an effect on public talk stations as 61% of those in PPM markets saw their weekly AQH share dip, led by KCFR, Denver and KUT, Austin – both declining 1.6 shares from the May survey to the June survey. Comparing June of 2018 to this year, just 38% of public radio news talkers are up – including KNPR, Las Vegas with an impressive 2.8 share gain – but 58% of stations see a ratings dip, including WBUR, Boston (-2.5), WFAE, Charlotte (-2.0), and KUT, Austin (-2.0). Just two public news/talk stations – KQED, San Francisco and KPBS, San Diego – ranked #1 (6+) in their respective markets during the June survey. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.
Talkers 2019: Telling the Story Videos Wraps Up Posting Today with the Panel Discussion, “Launching and Growing a Talent Career in 2019.” Today (7/25), TALKERS concludes the posting of videos of key speeches, presentations and sessions from the recent 22nd annual edition of the talk media industry’s
longest-running and most-important national convention – Talkers 2019: Telling the Story. This final post is the panel discussion, “Launching and Growing a Talent Career in 2019,” featuring panelists (in alphabetical order): Heather Cohen, EVP, The Weiss Agency; Dom Giordano, host, WPHT, Philadelphia; Danielle Lin, host, “The Art of Living & the Science of Life”; and Michael Riedel, host, WOR, New York. The panel was moderated by Andrew Kalb, then-executive director of programming, ABC News Radio and introduced by Dr. Daliah Wachs, host, Genesis Communications Network. This concludes the posting of all the key panels, speeches and presentations that took place at the annual event. All will remain posted for viewing/listening at Talkers.com for the rest of 2019. Thank you to Art Vuolo, president, Vuolo Video for the excellent job of capturing these historic recordings. To see the videos and convention video page, please click here.
Bert Baron Exits WCTC-AM, New Brunswick for Public Service Gig. Central New Jersey morning personality Bert Baron is exiting his position as host on
Beasley Media Group’s news/talk WCTC-AM, New Brunswick after tomorrow’s program to take a position outside of the radio business. In a press release, Mayor Jim Cahill says, “Bert is a well-known and admired member of our community. His vast experience in communications, messaging, social media, community engagement, advocacy, and community work and education initiatives will serve as key assets in his daily responsibilities as PIO. We are excited to welcome him to the team.”
Premiere’s George Noory Profiled in Boca Magazine. Nationally syndicated late-night radio star George Noory was recently profiled in the Florida
publication, Boca magazine. The host of “Coast to Coast AM” promoted his live stage show that’s taking place at the Miramar Cultural Center on Saturday (7/27), and discussed his 17-year tenure as host of the Premiere Networks radio program. Noory’s stage show will feature live interviews with Billy Carson, an expert in forbidden archaeology; James L. Paris, a motivational speaker and lecturer on the power of prayer; and Chip Coffey, a renowned psychic medium. Check out the Boca piece here.
Max Media Norfolk Back with Nielsen. Three years after deciding to do without Nielsen Audio’s PPM ratings service for its Norfolk, Virginia cluster that includes sports talk WVSP-FM “ESPN 94.1,” urban talk/music hybrid WGH-AM
and three music radio brands, Max Media signs a multi-year deal to use PPM data and a number of other services from Nielsen. Max Media VP and general manager Keith Barton says, “We are delighted to be working again with Nielsen. The comprehensive capabilities of Nielsen’s tools, including Nielsen Scarborough, Polk by IHS Markit, Nielsen Rhiza and Tapscan, are integral to our ability to facilitate success for the advertisers and agencies that we work with. We are now armed with the tools necessary to provide valuable marketing and advertising expertise to our clients and ultimately increase ROI.”
WWO: Smart Speaker Bringing AM/FM Back into the Home. The radio industry is hopeful that the rapid adoption of the smart speaker among American
households will heighten listening to AM/FM stations in the home. Westwood One presents some data to indicate the smart speaker is beginning to do just that. Some of the conclusions drawn from recent research are published in this week’s Westwood One blog post. They include: according to Nielsen, 28% of U.S. households own a smart speaker; 19% of streaming listening to AM/FM radio stations occurred via smart speaker at the start of this year, up from 9% in January 2018; streaming audiences skew female: 68% of the total music streaming audience is female, compared to 50% of the on-air audience to the same AM/FM radio stations; smart speaker AM/FM radio streamers listen to 7:55 hours and 6.3 sessions per month, higher than the average streaming listener; and a higher proportion of smart speaker streaming occurs on Saturdays and Sundays where smart speaker listening peaks between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm.
Mueller Testimony, Immigration/Asylum Policy, Epstein Injured in Jail, North Korea Missile Test, Puerto Rico Governor Resigns, and Boris Johnson Becomes Prime Minister Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/24). Wednesday’s testimony before the House judiciary and intelligence committees by special counsel Robert Mueller; the Trump administration’s immigration and asylum policies and the conditions at detention centers; accused sex traffickerJeffrey Epstein is found in jail cell injured; North Korea tests new short-range missile; Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello resigns over leaked chat message controversy; and Boris Johnson assumes the role as Great Britain’s prime minister were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. The rumored arrival of Jason Pullman as host of the new morning drive show on Entercom’s country WUSN-FM, Chicago “US99” is confirmed as the company announces the new show launches on August 8. Pullman was most recently morning
host at iHeartMedia’s country WUBL, Atlanta “94.9 The Bull.” Joining him on the air for the new morning show is Chicago native 
Katie Bright. She returns to WUSN after serving as national director of promotion for Warner Music Nashville. Prior to that, she’d worked with WUSN in the sales department. Also contributing to the show is current WUSN lead promotions coordinator Erin – known to WUSN listeners as the station’s “Batchelor” expert. Entercom Chicago president and market manager Jimmy de Castro says, “We are thrilled to welcome this talented team to ‘US99.’ The team will bring country music fans an entertaining and informative live, local show that is built for Chicagoland.”
Monday, June 17, 2019
Monday Memo: Your Email ‘Envelope.’ Consultant Holland Cooke wraps up his three-part series of tips from digital professionals with technique critical to hosts’ engagement with listener tribes (and sales reps’ approach to prospects). “Few opportunities to engage are more powerful than the ongoing conversation you have with listeners. It’s a relationship that Pandora can’t emulate. Smart syndicated hosts exploit email well, and if you’re local you can be even more relatable.” Read more here.
Jarecki to Host Evening Show at ‘Sportsradio 610’ Houston. Sports talk host Matthew Jarecki comes to Entercom’s Houston sports talker KILT-AM
“SportsRadio 610” from Flagstaff, Arizona where he’s been serving as a sideline reporter for KAFF-FM and Northern Arizona University’s NAU-TV and as morning drive host on the school’s KLJX-LP radio outlet. His new show on KILT will air from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “Matt’s a natural when it comes to sports radio. He has an innate ability to create unique and passionate opinions around Houston sports. His relentless work ethic will shine through and has helped him earn this opportunity.”
iHeartMedia Unveils Project Listen at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. American audio company iHeartMedia announces a partnership with London-based creative conglomerate WPP as they launch Project Listen “to develop next-generation insights, planning and creative capabilities in audio.” A
press release states that “the two companies will help brands better engage with consumers and win across all audio platforms: broadcast radio, digital streaming, podcasts, smart speakers and live events.” It goes on to say, “The study shows consumers say they are listening to audio content for an average of 17 hours a week, with millennials and younger 
generations listening the most. This ramp up in listening is the direct result of the rapid growth of digital streaming, podcasts, smart speakers, and airpods, on top of the massive and consistent scale of broadcast radio.” The three-pronged partnership is composed of: 1) Creative Audio Studio – Audio will be pushed higher on the agendas of creatives and media strategists with the launch of a new studio at GroupM’s headquarters at 3 World Trade Center in New York. Clients and creatives from across WPP will experiment with modern audio marketing programs, working with creative producers in a series of pilots; 2) Empowering Planning – iHeartMedia’s Smart Audio Insights and audience tools will be integrated with GroupM’s proprietary data and insights tools to uncover new insights and support novel measurement approaches, all of which will be shared in quarterly intelligence reports for clients and the market. A new audio certification program for planners at GroupM’s
agencies will roll out later in 2019; and 3) Raising Audio IQ – A new Project Listen monthly podcast is launching in Cannes with plans for 18 episodes through 2020. Lessons from the client pilots and research will be shared to help inspire more advertisers to embrace audio’s new capabilities. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman says, “Project Listen is about tapping into the scale of audio and moving from the traditionally transactional radio business to the future of audio advertising where insights and ideas lead the way to growth for brands. Simply put, audio is the biggest greenfield for growth in media today, and we could not be more excited to partner with the talented teams across WPP to develop the tools and skillsets needed to unlock that growth.”
The Weiss Agency and John Wiley & Sons Partner on ‘For Dummies: The Podcast.’ A partnership between The Weiss Agency’s newly established
podcast division, TWA Podcast Studio, and publishing firm John Wiley & Sons is producing a new podcast series titled, “For Dummies: The Podcast,” hosted by NBC daytime star Eric Martsolf. Capitalizing on the more than 250 million books in 
print in the “For Dummies” series, each weekly episode of the podcast adaptation will be a distillation of one of the “For Dummies” titles presented in a highly- entertaining and informative format. Eric Weiss says, “Dummies is an iconic media brand that has successfully educated readers around the globe for over three decades. I am thrilled to partner with Wiley to produce an informative and entertaining podcast that will allow us to share this gold mine of instructional information with listeners around the world.” “For Dummies: The Podcast” debuts today (6/17) on all major podcast platforms.
Nielsen Audio Releases Audio Today Report. The June 2019 Audio Today report from Nielsen Audio is released and contains data and insights “regarding listening trends, in all its various forms – including podcasting and smart speakers.” Nielsen says AM/FM radio reaches 272 million Americans each week
(92% of adults 18+), “more than any other platform.” The study concludes that “radio is in high demand and has a diverse listenership when considering how many people tune in across age, gender, and ethnicity. Not surprisingly, adults 18-49 are the demographic that tunes in the most. The monthly reach for these listeners is 132.4 million (98% of the population), and country is the format they prefer most. Adults 25-54 are the second most reached demographic for radio, with 123.6 million (99%) of the population listening each month.” The study breaks out listening by demographics and, as you can see in the graphic here, news/talk is the preferred format among Men 25-54, but note that this is combined commercial news/talk and public radio news/talk. Nielsen does look at commercial news/talk separately and reports that among Adults 25-54, commercial news/talk is the 8th most-listened-to format, garnering a 4.9 share (country is tops with a 13.1 share). See more here.
TAB Radio Institute at the University of Tennessee Opens Today. Last week, TALKERS tipped readers that the Beasley Radio Talent Institute is beginning today at Emerson College in Boston. It so happens that today is also the opening of the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters Radio Institute at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Over the course of the next 10 days,
students will learn from more than three dozen broadcasters teaching in their areas of expertise. TAB president Whit Adamson says, “The student preparation and focus for the Radio Talent Institute is like nothing else we could get involved with. This course gets them ready for graduation and the next step in their careers, which is a valuable asset to any station. They are exposed to all facets of a station and will be capable of sitting down at any broadcast radio or television facility and be prepared to add something.” Twenty-two students were accepted into the institute from eight universities, including: University of Tennessee Knoxville, Tennessee State, Austin Peay State University, Tennessee Tech, Georgia State University, Jackson State Community College, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, and Dalton State College in Georgia.
Begnaud to Anchor ‘Reporter’s Notebook’ for CBS News Radio. Four-year CBS News Radio Network journalist David Begnaud is named anchor of the daily CBS News Radio and CBS Audio feature “Reporter’s Notebook.” Begnaud
was recently named lead national correspondent for the network’s “CBS THIS MORNING” program. Each edition of “Reporter’s Notebook” will give listeners insight and context to the day’s biggest news stories. Begnaud’s reports will be broadcast at 4:25 pm ET Monday through Friday. CBS News Radio vice president and general manager Craig Swagler says, “David represents true compassion in his storytelling that affects our listeners. Our affiliates can depend on David to bring the best original reporting to their audiences with ‘Reporter’s Notebook.’” Begnaud’s coverage of Hurricane Maria earned him the prestigious George Polk Award for public service in 2018. He also received the RTDNA’s First Amendment Leadership Award for his significant contribution to the protection of the First Amendment and freedom of the press.
Lieberman to Head Up Sales at WTEM, Washington. Sales pro Stephen Lieberman is appointed general sales manager of Radio One’s sports talk WTEM, Washington “The Team 980,” effective July 8. He was most recently
general sales manager for NBC Sports Washington. Prior to that Lieberman was the local sales manager at ESPN O&O WMVP-AM, Chicago “ESPN Radio 1000.” Lieberman says, “I’m truly excited to return to the place where I started my sports radio career. I’m humbled to have an opportunity to build on the great work that my colleagues have devoted to ‘The Team 980,’ and I’m looking forward to collaborating with this talented group to strengthen our ties to the community while building deeper partnerships in the marketplace.”
2020 Presidential Race/Poll Numbers, Impeachment Talk, Kellyanne Conway Hatch Act Allegations, Iran Suspected of Tanker Attacks, South American Blackout, and Hong Kong Protests Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and the leaked poll numbers that indicate Joe Biden and Bernie Sanders lead Trump in several states; the Democrats’ talk of beginning impeachment proceedings against the president; the U.S. Office of Special Counsel’s report that White House aide Kellyanne Conway violated the Hatch Act numerous times; the U.S. accuses Iran of torpedoing oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman; the blackouts affecting millions in Argentina and Uruguay; and the Hong Kong protests over the Chinese extradition policy were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Los Angeles, Nick Cannon is joining Meruelo Media’s hip hop KPWR “Power 106” as the station’s new morning drive personality. Meruelo Media president and COO Otto Padron says, “Nick is the quintessential entertainer and content creator who will take our media game to the next level. His tremendous success across television, film, and music is testimony of his unique talent, work ethic, and impeccable reputation. Nick is the absolute right talent to start our mornings on ‘Power 106’ – this is an incredible match and we’re fortunate to have him in our family.”…..Beasley Media Group rebrands KOAS-FM, Las Vegas
“Jammin’ 105.7” and officially kicked off the newly tweaked format by playing “Smile” by Li’l Duval & Snoop Dogg. With the change, the Premiere Networks-syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Show takes over the AM daypart. Zenja Dunn remains in middays while Paco Lopez joins the afternoon drive show and Connie Breeze hosts evenings…..Hubbard Radio announces that programming pro and country radio specialist Bruce Logan will take the helm as operations manager and brand/content director of country WIRK-FM, West Palm Beach and sister adult contemporary WEAT “Sunny 107.9.” Logan was most recently the VP of programming for Entercom’s Houston market and program director for country KILT-FM and adult hits KKHH-FM.
Round Four of Takeaways from May PPM Survey. May 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s May 2019 survey period covered April 25 – May 22. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM markets below.
Austin
Spoken-Word Formats – It was announced last week that Emmis is selling its
50.1% controlling interest in six Austin stations to Bob and David Sinclair-led Sinclair Telecable for $39.3 million. Included in the deal are news/talk KLBJ-AM; classic rock KLBJ-FM; adult hits KBPA-FM; adult contemporary KGSR-FM; alternative KROX-FM; regional Mexican KLZT-FM; and music brands “Austin City Limits Radio” and “Latino 102.7.” The Austin cluster will be rebranded as Waterloo Media. Until the sale is finalized, we will include any mention of these stations in “Takeaways” columns as “Emmis-owned.”
A combined -1.0 in three straight drops (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), Emmis news/talk KLBJ-AM “News Radio 590 AM” dips from #12 to #13 with its lowest 6+-stat (2.8) since “Holiday” 2018’s 2.7.
This marks the fourth successive time that Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX “The Horn” (#19 to #18) has a fluctuation of one-tenth (1.7 – 1.6; 1.6 – 1.7; 1.7 – 1.8; 1.8 – 1.7, 6+). Meanwhile, the February 2019 through March 2019 topline for iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone” is .4 – .6 – .6 .4 (#24 to #25, 6+).
On the heels of April’s gigantic -2.0 (9.5 – 7.5, 6+), KUT surrenders another one-tenth to 7.4, its lowest 6+-showing since August 2018’s 7.1, but the University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk facility continues in the runner-up slot. KUT’s previous shifts this calendar year include: +1.6 (January); -.6 (February); and +.7 (March).
Austin Music Formats – In three straight decreases, iHeartMedia country KVET-FM erodes by -1.3 (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.1 – 4.9, 6+), but “98.1 The Austin Texas Original” rallies with a +.9 to 5.8 (6+) and jumps from eighth to fourth. The just-concluded negative streak directly followed its January +1.2 (5.0 – 6.2, 6+). It is tied at #4 with co-owned/similarly-formatted KASE “Austin’s #1 For New Country,” which is +1.5 in three straight upticks (4.3 – 4.5 – 5.7 – 5.8, fifth to fourth, 6+). April’s +1.2 halted its November 2018 through March 2019 alternating up/down pattern (5.4 – 5.6 – 3.7 – 4.9 – 4.3 – 4.5, 6+). Particularly noteworthy in that stretch, KASE plummeted by -1.9 in “Holiday” 2018; improved by +1.2 in January; and was -.6 in February. Locked on 2.0 (6+) in March and April, Genuine Austin Radio-owned KOKE-FM “Austin’s Country Alternative” adds one-tenth to 2.1 (6+) and continues at #16. A January drop of one-tenth interrupted three straight increases that nearly doubled (+1.1) KOKE-FM’s 6+-stat (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+). Within 5.2 – 5.8 range (6+) the fourth straight time including May’s increase of one-half share (5.2 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.8, 6+), Entercom hot AC KAMX “Mix 94.7” progresses from seventh to fourth. This is its best 6+-showing in nearly one year (5.8 as well in June 2018). Despite dropping one-half share (8.7 – 8.2, 6+), Emmis adult hits KBPA “103.5 Bob-FM” repeats at #1. Prior to April 2019, the last time “Bob” occupied the top spot was December 2018 when KBPA scored an 8.3 (6+). In back-to-back (April and May) reports, regional Mexican sibling KLZT “107.1 La Z” spirals by eight-tenths (6.7 – 5.9 – 5.1, 6+), drifting from fourth to eighth. “La Z” was +1.2 in March and, prior to April, last reached the six-share level in October 2016 (6.1). Off one-half share (1.9 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom urban contemporary KKMJ-HD3 slips from #18 to #20. In early-March, Emmis flipped KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” to adult contemporary “Star 93.3.” While off nine-tenths in its first sweep in the new format, “Star” erased that deficit completely with a magnitude-matching April increase (1.1 – 2.0, +.9, 6+) but forfeits one-tenth in May (1.9, #16 to #17, 6+). The station it is chasing – Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ “Majic 95.5 Better Music For A Better Workday” – falters by three-tenths to 6.2 (6+) and carries on in third-place. In advance of May’s -.3, “Majic” was -1.2 (September 2018); +1.2 (October); -.5 (November); +1.2 (December); +2.1 (“Holiday” 2018); -4.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.5 (March); and +1.5 (April). Having posted a 1.0 in March (#21, 6+), Principle Broadcasting Foundation triple A KDRP-LP “Sun Radio – The Best Music Under The Sun” is unlisted in April and May.
Raleigh
Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK was an overall +1.9 (4.6 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.5, 6+), but “106.1 Stay Connected” is now a combined -.7 in April/May (6.5 – 6.1 – 5.8, flat at #7, 6+). Even though it returns the one-tenth it
gained in April (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF “News Radio 680” advances from #17 to #16.
Capitol Broadcasting sports talk WCMC “99.9 The Fan” is unchanged from April in 6+-share (2.2) and 6+ market rank (#15). Co-owned/similarly-formatted model of consistency WDNC “620 The Ticket” has an August 2018 through May 2019 topline of: .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .1 (#27, 6+).
While off four-tenths (7.4 – 7.0, 6+), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” continues in third-place. WUNC followed January’s +1.0 with a -.6 in February.
Raleigh Music Formats – An increase of eight-tenths (3.2 – 4.0, 6+) enables Curtis Media Group CHR WPLW to reach the four-share level (6+) for the first time since July 2017 (4.0, as well). By regressing one-half share in April, “Pulse FM – All The Hits” concluded three consecutive up or flat moves that led to a gain of eight-tenths (2.9 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.7, 6+). A combined -.9 in March/April (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.1, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WDCG “G-105 – Raleigh’s #1 Hit Music Station” improves by four-tenths to 5.5 (ninth to eighth, 6+). “G-105” was +1.5 in January/February (4.5 – 5.6 – 6.0, 6+). Radio One urban contemporary sibling WQOK dials up an increase of seven-tenths to advance from sixth to fourth. Three straight sweeps without a loss yielded two-tenths (7.6 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+); however, “K-97.5” was then -1.6 in March/April (7.8 – 7.3 – 6.2, 6+). Albeit a collective -1.9 in four straight down or flat trends (11.0 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5 – 9.1, 6+), urban AC cluster-mate WFXC “Foxy – Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” is #1 for the tenth straight time. Entering the March sweep, its five previous fluctuations were +.9 (November 2018); -1.5 (December); +1.1 (“Holiday” 2018); +1.1 (January 2019) to 11.0, WFXC’s highest 6+-stat in the PPM-era; and -1.1 in February. Since debuting in print in “Holiday” 2018, Curtis Media Group classic country WQDR-AM “Just Right Country – AM 570,” has a 6+ topline of .1 – .1 – .4 – .8 – .8 – 1.0 (6+) and cracks the top twenty (#21 to #20). Surrendering all but two-tenths of April’s +.7 (7.2 – 6.7, -.5, 6+), co-owned WQDR-FM “94.7 – Today’s Best Country” drops from fourth to fifth. After posting a gain of nine-tenths, its format rival – iHeartMedia’s WNCB “New Country B-93.9” – repeats April’s 6+-share (2.9) and market rank (#13). April’s increase erased February/March’s loss of six-tenths (2.6 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+). In five straight Raleigh reports without an increase, Curtis Media Group-owned regional Mexican WYMY “La Ley 101.1” has had its 6+ AQH share sliced precisely in half (-1.6) but remains at #16 (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.6, 6+).
Indianapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – April 2019 to May 2019’s shift of (only) three-tenths is a unique change-of-pace for Emmis news/talk WIBC “Indy’s Mobile News 93.1” (5.2 – 5.7, +.3, eighth to seventh, 6+). It is quite a contrast from its nine most recent fluctuations: -.7 (September 
2018); +1.0 (October); +.7 (November); -.9 (December); -.9 (“Holiday” 2018); +.9 (January 2019); +.9 (February); -.8 (March); and -1.2 (April).
All three of the market’s sports talk outlets have April 2019 to May 2019 moves of one-tenth. Emmis’ WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center” gains a collective
four-tenths in three straight up or flat trends 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 2.4, flat at #16, 6+). It has a two-to-one lead over iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station,” which loses six-tenths in four successive sweeps without an increase (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.3 – 1.2, #18 to #20, 6+). Returning the one-tenth it picked up in April (.1 – .2 – .1, 6+) Cumulus Media’s WXNT “CBS Sports AM 1430” (#22 to #24) notches either a .1 or .2 (6+) for the 16th consecutive sweep.
Repeating at #11, Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI answers April’s -1.4 with an improvement of three-tenths (4.3 – 4.6, 6+). Prior to April’s loss, WFYI was +1.5 in three gains in succession (4.2 – 5.1 – 5.6 – 5.7, 6+).
Indianapolis Music Formats – It had been well over seven years ago since Sarkes Tarzian triple A WTTS last appeared in print (February 2012, 2.8, #16) but it resurfaced as a Nielsen Audio subscriber in April 2019 with a 3.1 (6+) and ranked #14. “World Class Rock 92.3 – Experience The Music” hauls out a May +1.0 to 4.1 (6+) and progresses to #12. A cumulative -1.5 in four successive negative moves (6.1 – 5.6 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+), Radio One rhythmic CHR WHHH “Hot 96.3” ends the slide with a +.8 to 5.4 (ninth to eighth, 6+). CHR cluster-mate WNOW “100.9 Radio Now” adds one-half share (2.6 – 3.1, 6+) and moves from #15 to #14. April 2019 was a benchmark ratings period for Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK. “Classic Hits 104.5” recorded a massive +1.7 to 10.2, the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history, eclipsing October 2018’s 10.0. While a modest May dip of three-tenths sends WJJK back under a ten-share (9.9, 6+), “Classic Hits 104.5” sets the pace for the fifth consecutive time. This calendar year, WJJK has been +2.9 (January); -.7 (February); -.6 (March); +1.7 (April); and -.3 (May). After spending six straight sweeps on top, “Classic Hits 104.5” slipped to third in “Holiday” 2018 but returned to #1 in January 2019. As a result of four consecutive decreases, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WKLU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” has lost roughly 37% (-1.5) of its 6+-stat (4.1- 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 2.6, #12 to #15). Co-owned/similarly-formatted WQRA Air 1 – Worship Now” is without an increase for the seventh time in a row for a net loss of one-half share (.7 – .5 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .4 – .2 – .2, #22 to #23, 6+). After being off six-tenths in four consecutive down or flat reports (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.2, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR WYRG “Energy 93.9” is up one-tenth to 1.3 (#19 to #18, 6+). This time last month, WYXB “B-105.7” logged a +1.9 to 8.8 (6+). Now, the Emmis adult contemporary outlet relinquishes roughly 31% of that bounty to 8.2 (-.6, 6+) but remains in second-place. April’s +1.9 suspended three negative moves in succession that accounted for a -9.5 (16.4 – 7.6 – 7.0 – 6.9, 6+). Faltering four-tenths to 5.0 (seventh to ninth, 6+), Radio One urban AC WTLC-FM “106.7 Indy’s R&B Leader” has its successive string of up or flat trends that yielded eight-tenths end at four (4.6 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+). As Cumulus Media’s WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” sputters by six-tenths (8.0 – 7.4, 6+), Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” drops four-tenths (6.5 – 6.1, 6+); the country rivals continue at #3 and #5, respectively. WFMS followed March’s +1.1 with an April gain of seven-tenths. WFMS was +.9 (October 2018); -1.8 (December); +1.1 (January 2019); -1.0 (February); +1.1 (March); and +.7 (April). Three successive bumps by WLHK netted a +2.2 (4.4 – 5.2 – 5.9 – 6.6, 6+), but “Hank” returned one-tenth in April. Prior to adding eight-tenths in January, WLHK was an overall -1.3 in three straight decreases (5.7 – 5.0 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+).
Milwaukee
Spoken-Word Formats – It is exceptionally rare to see a station make a mega
-move (+1.5 or more) one month and then actually “add-on” the next sweep. That is exactly what happens in Milwaukee though where Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” made one of the largest-ever (non-Christmas music period) month-to-month gains (5.9 – 8.8, +2.9) and 
manages to follow with an additional six-tenths to 9.4 (6+). The whopping April/May +3.5 propels the Brewers flagship from second to first. Recent WTMJ shifts include +1.9 (April 2018); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); -2.6 (December); and +2.9 (April 2019). Remaining at #6, iHeartMedia’s WISN “News/Talk 1130,” which as +2.2 in January, is up a combined six-tenths in April/May (5.1 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+).
Albeit flat at 1.0 (6+), Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “94.5 ESPN” pushes up from #18 to #16. Prior to February’s one-tenth increase, WKTI was an overall -3.7 in nine straight down or flat sweeps (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 2.3 – .8 – .7 –
.7, 6+). It catches Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan,” which loses four-tenths in three straight (modest) dips (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0, flat at #16, 6+). In addition to recapturing the three-tenths it lost in April (.6 – .3 – .6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WRNW “The Game” enters the top twenty (#22 to #20). CHR WRNW “Now” became sports talk “The Game” in late-November (2018). Co-owned WOKY “The Big 920” logs a .2 for the fifth time in the last seven sweeps and remains at #24 (.2 – .3 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .2 – .2, 6+).
Three straight reports without a loss by WUWM led to a +1.2 (3.6 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), but the University of Wisconsin news/talk outlet is a combined -.9 in April/May and exits the top ten (4.8 – 4.4 – 3.9, #10 to #13, 6+). Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD is off three-tenths via three straight down or flat moves (1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0, 6+) yet proceeds from #17 to #16.
Milwaukee Music Formats – Owing to four negative or flat reports in succession, Entercom hot AC WMYX forfeited an overall seven-tenths (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.4, 6+); however, “99.1 The Mix” obliterates that shortfall with a +1.2 to 6.6 (6+) and marches from seventh to fourth. This (6.6) is the strongest 6+-stat for “Mix” since December 2015’s 6.8. A collective -2.2 in three straight sweeps without an increase (6.5 – 5.4 – 4.3 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WKKV ends the slide with a one-half share increase to 4.8 (6+). Moreover, “V-100.7 Jams” enters the top ten (#11 to #8). Immediately prior to the February sweep, WKKV was an overall +2.0 via three successive gains (4.5 – 4.7 – 5.9 – 6.5, 6+). Following five straight sweeps at #1, classic hits-oldies sibling WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits” erodes by -1.5 (10.1 – 8.6, 6+) and segues to #2 with its lowest 6+-figure (8.6) since December 2018’s 7.7. Before shifting to #2 in October 2018, “Big FM” spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1; “Holiday” 2018’s 11.5 is the strongest 6+-stat for any Milwaukee station since WRIT’s 11.6 in “Holiday” 2017. Its seven most recent moves are -1.0 (December); +3.8 (“Holiday” 2018); – 1.9 (January 2019); +.6 (February); -.8 (March); +.7 (April); and -1.5 (May). While it is off a collective eight-tenths in three straight negative or flat trends (8.1 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 7.3, 6+) Saga Communications’ WKLH “96.5 Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock” remains in third-place. As a result of dropping three-tenths to 4.0 (flat at #11, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance-owned alternative WLUM “102.1 Sounds Different” snaps at three its string of consecutive increases that netted a +1.8 (2.5 – 3.0 – 4.1 – 4.3, 6+). January’s 2.5 is its lowest-ever 6+ PPM stat, while April’s 4.3 is its best since August 2017’s 4.3.
Nashville
Spoken-Word Formats – Even though Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN is off
a collective one-half share in three straight down or flat moves (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 3.1, 6+), “Super Talk 99.7” moves from #14 to #13. Regaining the three-tenths it lost in April (1.7 – 1.4 – 1.7, 6+), 
iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” advances from #19 to #17. Entering the April sweep, WLAC netted seven-tenths in three straight improvements (1.0 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7, 6+).
The market’s (6+) sports talk share shrinks by -1.4, nearly equally divided between Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (4.8 – 4.2, -.6, #9 to #11, 6+) and Cromwell Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (-.8, #16 to #18, 6+). This (4.2) is the lowest 6+-share for “The Zone” since August 2018’s 3.6. Meanwhile, “The Game” continues an alternating up/down pattern that began in October 2018 (1.3 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 1.1 (6+) and fades from the top twenty (#16 to #21).
A -1.3 in March/April (5.7 – 4.8 – 4.4, 6+), Nashville Public Radio news/talk/classical hybrid WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” erases all but three-tenths of that shortfall with a +1.0 to 5.4 (tenth to seventh, 6+); WPLN-FM was a combined +2.1 in January/February (3.6 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+).
Nashville Music Formats – An overall -5.9 in four straight setbacks (14.1 – 10.6 – 9.3 – 8.8 – 8.2, 6+), Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” answers with a +1.0 in May and recaptures the top spot (9.2, second to first, 6+). Prior to surrendering six-tenths in April, “Mix” had been on top the previous 15 ratings periods. Twelve recent WJXA fluctuations include: +1.0 (June 2018); +.9 (August); -.9 (September); -.7 (October); +.9 (November); +1.9 (December); +3.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.5 (January 2019); -1.3 (February); -.5 (March); -.6 (April); and +1.0 (May). “Holiday” 2018’s 14.1 is the highest 6+-share for any Nashville outlet since WJXA’s 14.4 in “Holiday” 2017. On the flipside, adult hits sibling WCJK “96.3 Jack FM Playing What We Want” (8.4 – 7.6, -.8, 6+) is dislodged from #1 (after an April-only stay there) and segues to second. The May loss of eight-tenths pulls the plug on three straight January 2019 through April 2019 bumps that netted a +2.4 (6.0 – 6.7 – 7.8 – 8.4, 6+). In April, “Jack” reached the eight-share level (8.4, 6+) for the first time since July 2018’s 8.1. Its six most recent shifts are +1.2 (“Holiday” 2018); -1.3 (January 2019); +.7 (February); +1.1 (March); +.6 (April); and -.8 (May). Not only does TBLC Media Spanish contemporary WNVL triple (+1.0) its 6+-stat in four upticks in succession (.5 – .6 – .8 – .9 – 1.5, 6+) “Activa 105.1 & 1240 AM” enters the top twenty at #18. Immediately after posting an April increase of seven-tenths (3.0 – 3.7, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WLVU “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” relinquishes nine-tenths to 2.8 (#13 to #14, 6+) and falls below a two-share (6+) for the first time since November 2018’s 2.6. Elsewhere in the format, Salem Media Group’s WFFH “The Fish” is up a collective six-tenths via three straight gains (3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.1, flat at #12, 6+), notching its best 6+-stat (4.1) since “Holiday” 2018’s 4.7, while WAY Media’s WAYM “Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” – down six-tenths in March and up one-half share in April – drops two-tenths in May (1.5 – 1.3, flat at #20, 6+). Having recorded a collective +2.2 in five straight gains (4.1 – 4.2 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.3, 6+), Cumulus Media country outlet WKDF “103.3 Nash FM” falters by one-half share to 5.8 (fourth to sixth, 6+). Prior to March, “103.3 Nash FM” last hit the six-share threshold in June 2013. Notwithstanding it amasses a +1.7 in five consecutive sweeps without a loss (3.5 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country” backslides from seventh to eighth. It is tied there with Cumulus Media’s WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon,” which is up two-tenths in three successive up or flat moves (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 5.2, steady at #8, 6+).
Providence
Spoken-Word Formats – In a bit of ranker oddity, Cumulus Media news/talk
WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” added one-tenth in April yet reversed from seventh to eighth – and now in May – it returns April’s +.1 (3.7 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+) but advances from eighth to seventh. As a result of three (modest) dips in 
succession, iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WHJJ “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” forfeits four-tenths (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+) and drops from #12 to #13.
Despite being up one-tenth, following a decline twice that much in April (8 – .6 – .7, 6+), Cumulus Media-owned WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” departs the top twenty (#20 to #21).
The four-tenths’ gain that WVEI logged in April vanishes as the Entercom sports talker sputters by one-half share (4.0 – 3.5, 6+) and slips from seventh to eighth.
A loss of one-tenth sends iHeartMedia-owned Boston hybrid news-talk WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” from #15 to #17.
The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH is unchanged from April in 6+-share (2.0) and market rank (tenth), while WGBH Educational Foundation Boston news/talk WGBH – locked on 1.6 (6+) in March and April – is up one-tenth to 1.7 (#13 to #12, 6+).
Providence Music Formats – Three mainstream CHRs appearing in Providence’s top twenty combine for a 10.8 (6+). Leading the way is Cumulus Media-owned WPRO-FM. Its April -.6 to 7.2 (6+) suspended three straight gains that netted a +1.4 (6.4- 6.8 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+); however, in May, “Today’s Hit Music – 92 PRO FM” is up two-tenths to 7.4 (6+) and climbs from fifth to fourth. March’s 7.8 is its best 6+-stat since September 2018’s 8.4. Flat at #11, Townsquare Media’s WFHN “Fun 107 – The South Coast’s #1 Hit Music Station” has lost more than 50% (-2.3) of its 6+-share in four straight reports without an increase (4.2 – 3.7 – 2.6 – 1.9 – 1.9, 6+). Immediately in advance of this negative stretch, WFHN more than tripled (+3.0) its 6+-stat as a result of six successive up or flat moves (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 4.2, 6+). Reaching the market from Boston (where it’s tied for #1 in May with a 7.6, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” is up a collective four-tenths through three straight up or flat Providence moves (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.5, #17 to #14, 6+). A ratings “no-show” until February 2019, Hall Communications’ classic hits-oldies WNBH (+.5 in May) not only more than triples (+.7) its 6+-stat in three straight upticks (.3 – .4 – .5 -1.0, 6+), “Big 101.3” breaks into the top twenty (#21 to #18). Improving by one-half share as well in May and also logging three consecutive improvements (for a collective +1.2) is iHeartMedia hot AC WSNE “Coast 93.3” (3.8 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+). While it remains at #6, “Coast” reaches the five-share level (5.0, 6+) for the first time since October 2018’s 5.5. A four-tenth gain by co-owned WHJY “94 HJY Providence’s Home of Rock & Roll” (9.6 – 10.0, 6+), coupled with an equal magnitude decrease by Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” (9.7 – 9.3, 6+), results in WHJY moving from second to first and WWLI dropping from first to second. These two stations did the exact opposite dance in April. An April loss of nine-tenths forced WHJY from the top spot after three straight months there. The decline halted four consecutive positive or flat moves that netted a +2.0 (8.5 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 10.5, 6+). Before taking over at #1 in January, WHJY was in the runner-up slot from September 2018 through “Holiday” 2018. In second-place three sweeps in a row, “Lite Rock 105” posted a one-half share increase in April to progress to #1. Before shifting to the runner-up slot in January 2019, “Lite Rock 105” was #1 for six consecutive sweeps; “Holiday” 2018’s 16.2 is the highest 6+-stat for any Providence station since WWLI’s 18.0 in “Holiday” 2016. While it carries on in third-place, Hall Communications’ WCTK “Cat Country 98.1” surrenders two-tenths to 7.6 (6+), thus curtailing four straight gains that accounted for a +2.2 (5.6 – 7.2 – 7.4 – 7.4 – 7.8, 6+). That streak followed a collective -3.1 via three declines in succession (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9 – 5.6, 6+).
Norfolk – Answering March/April’s combined -2.4 (12.9 – 11.6 – 10.5, 6+) with a May +1.0 to 11.5 (6+), WVKL is #1 for the fifth successive 
month. Up until logging a 10.5 in April 2019, the Entercom urban AC had posted a 6+-share of 11.0 or higher 37 of 38 times. “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” had been on top 25 successive survey periods before segueing to the runner-up slot in “Holiday” 2018. Its August 2018 15.5 holds the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. Even though iHeartMedia alternative WNOH gains six-tenths in five straight reports without a loss (.8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), “Alt 105.3” has an April-only stay in the top ten (#10 to #11). Tied at #11 and extending their particular positive streaks are Saga Communications adult standards WJOI “1230 AM – Great Songs/Great Memories,” which gains six-tenths in five straight up or flat trends (.8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.4, #13 to #11, 6+), and Norfolk State University urban contemporary WNSB “Hot 91.1,” which improves four-tenths via four consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.- 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4, flat at #11, 6+). In three straight down or flat trends, Entercom CHR WNVZ is an overall -1.0 (5.6 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 4.6, 6+) but “Z-104” remains in sixth-place. Ever since appearing in print in November 2018, its internet stream is trending .4 – .5 – .6 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .4 – .5 (flat at #14, 6+). The January 2019 through May 2019 toplines of Saga Communications classic rock WAFX “106.9 The Fox” and iHeartMedia urban contemporary WOWI “103 Jamz” are extremely similar. “The Fox” is 7.5 – 7.4 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 7.8 (steady at #2, 6+), while “103 Jamz” is 7.5 – 7.4 – 7.7 – 7.8 – 7.6 (second to third, 6+). Including aforementioned WAFX (7.8, 6+) and WNOH (1.4, 6+), five of the 14 stations appearing in Norfolk’s May 2019 sweep are unchanged from May in 6+ AQH share. The other three are Saga Communications rock WNOR (6.0, fourth, 6+); Entercom adult contemporary WWDE (5.8, fifth, 6+); and its hot AC cluster-mate WPTE (2.8, seventh, 6+).
Jacksonville
Spoken-Word Formats – An overall -1.8 in four consecutive sweeps without an
increase (10.4 – 9.7 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.6, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV-FM is tied for the lead in May; “104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” had sole possession of first-place in April. While November 2018’s 11.2 is WOKV-FM’s best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era, this is its lowest since September 2018 (8.6, as well).
Down or flat the seventh consecutive time for a net loss of one-half share (.8 – .7 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .3 – .3 -.3, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” repeats at #19.
Off two-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.3, 6+), public news/talk WJCT continues at #11. Immediately prior to April, “Your Community – Your World” was a cumulative +1.5 in five increases in a row (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 3.0 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+).
Jacksonville Music Formats – A robust May +1.9 to 6.4 (6+) by iHeartMedia-owned WQIK blows up slightly more than three-quarters of its collective -2.5 resulting from seven consecutive negative moves (7.0 – 6.8 – 6.7 – 6.4 – 6.1 – 5.2 – 5.0 – 4.5, 6+) as “Jacksonville’s Country 99.1” jumps from eighth to fifth. Its format rival – Renda Broadcasting’s WGNE “Gator Country 99.9” – was within one-tenth of WQIK in April, but WGNE completely wipes away March/April’s +.6 (3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4, 6+) by faltering six-tenths to 3.8 (ninth to tenth, 6+). Segueing to a second-place tie in April after a March-only stay at #1, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle” is up three-tenths to 8.6 (6+) and returns to the top, where it is tied with news/talk cluster-mate WOKV-FM (see above). An April loss of six-tenths by “The Eagle” interrupted three upticks in succession that resulted in a +1.6 (7.3 – 8.1 – 8.6 – 8.9, 6+). Immediately prior to that streak, “The Eagle” was an overall -2.0 in four consecutive slips (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.5 – 8.2 – 7.3, 6+). In the market’s adult contemporary tussle, Renda Broadcasting’s WEJZ “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” is a combined -1.1 in April/May (8.7 – 8.3 – 7.6, second-place tie to third, 6+), while Cox Media Group’s WEZI “Easy 102.9” adds two-tenths to April’s +.4 (4.5 – 4.9 – 5.1, steady at #7, 6+). Prior to gaining three-tenths in March, WEJZ lost more than 50% (-7.9) of its 6+ AQH share in January/February (16.3 – 8.5 – 8.4, 6+); “Holiday” 2018’s 16.3 is the highest 6+-mark for any Jacksonville station since “Holiday” 2015 when WEJZ notched a 19.5. A combined +1.1 in January/February, WEZI surrendered roughly half that increase with a March loss of six-tenths. At the same time that iHeartMedia gospel WKSL-HD3 shows a net increase of seven-tenths in four straight up or flat moves (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.9, flat at #14, 6+), co-owned rock WKSL-HD2, which was trending 1.0 – .7 – .7 – .7 – .6 (6+), disappears from print for the second month in a row. Unchanged at #19, Spanish contemporary sibling WQIK-HD2 gains two-tenths in nine straight sweeps without a loss (.1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .3, 6+).
West Palm Beach
Spoken-Word Formats – Up seven-tenths in three straight reports without a loss (2.0 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” continues at #9; 2.7 is its best 6+-showing since July 2018’s 2.9. Co-owned news/talk WZZR 
“Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk For The Palm Beaches” is flat at 2.3 (6+) but backslides from #11 to #12. Immediately after posting an April gain of eight-tenths, Hubbard Broadcasting’s WFTL “News Talk 850” forfeits half that increase (2.1 – 1.7, -.4, 6+) and slips from #12 to #15. Three straight sweeps without a loss by WIOD resulted in the iHeartMedia Miami news/talker doubling (+.5) its 6+-stat (.5 – .7 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+), but “610 News Radio” returns four-tenths to .6 (6+) and exits the West Palm Beach top twenty (#20 to #22).
Co-owned sports talk WBZT “1230 The Zone” posted a .1 (6+) in August 2018 but has been a “no-show” in the subsequent ten sweeps.
By picking up one-tenth to 3.0 (flat at #8, 6+), Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN halts three successive decreases that accounted for a loss of lost eight-tenths (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+).
West Palm Beach Music Formats – A combined +1.2 in April/May (2.7 – 3.1 – 3.9, 6+), Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WIRK “103.1 South Florida’s Country Music” jumps from seventh to fifth with its best 6+-showing (3.9) since September 2018’s 4.2. Notching its third successive West Palm Beach increase for a collective +1.0 (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.4, 6+), iHeartMedia Miami CHR WHYI “Y-100” jumps from #14 to #11. Not to be outdone, co-owned/similarly-formatted WLDI “WiLD 95.5 The Palm Beaches’ #1 Hit Music Station” is +1.4 in five straight upticks (2.5 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.9, sixth to fifth, 6+) and posts its best 6+-stat (3.9) since August 2018’s 4.0. Setting the pace the fifth month in a row, Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF is nonetheless a combined -2.4 in April/May (11.2 – 9.0 – 8.8, 6+); “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” enjoyed a +2.0 in March. Its March 11.2 is WRMF’s highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2, as well); May 2019’s 8.8 is its lowest since “Holiday” 2017’s 8.2. Having faltered by -1.0 in January, WRMF was frozen on 9.2 (6+) in January and February. Unchanged at #4, urban AC sibling WMBX “X-102.3” erases its April gain of six-tenths to 5.9, its highest 6+-share since May 2018’s 6.2, with a shortfall of nine-tenths (5.3 – 5.9 – 5.0, 6+). The market’s two adult contemporary stations post modest April 2019 – May 2019 decreases. Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned WOLL “Today’s Kool 105.5” is down one-tenth to 7.0 (6+) and Hubbard Broadcasting’s WEAT-FM “Sunny 107.9” is off two-tenths to 6.8 (6+); “Kool” and “Sunny” continue at second and third, respectively. “Kool” gained seven-tenths in April to 7.1, its best 6+-stat since July 2016’s 7.5. That followed March’s loss of one-tenth, which snapped at three its consecutive string of positive spikes that netted a +1.2 (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.5, 6+). On the heels of a March increase of seven-tenths, “Sunny” eroded by -1.2 in April (8.2 – 7.1, 6+). WEAT-FM was a combined -3.2 in January/February (10.7 – 7.8 – 7.5, 6+).
Greensboro
Spoken-Word Formats – After being +1.4 in January/February (3.0 – 4.3 – 4.4,
6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your News, Talk, & Sports Station” directly follows with three successive down or flat trends for a collective -1.2 (4.4 – 3.6 – 3.2 – 3.2, #11 to #12, 6+).
Even though Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS regains the one-tenth it lost in April (.9 – .8 – .9, 6+), “Triad Sports” backslides from #14 to #15.
Holding down the #13 position for the 13th consecutive time, Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” answers April’s loss of seven-tenths with a May gain of two-tenths (2.3 – 1.6 – 1.8, 6+). University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC recaptures April’s -.3 in its entirety (.8 – .5 – .8, 6+) and carries on at #17.
Greensboro Music Formats – The five most recent fluctuations for Entercom adult hits WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” are: +.9 (January); -.6 (February); +.9 (March); -1.6 (April); and +1.1 in May (8.2 – 9.3, third to second, 6+). Prior to its March-only stay at #1, WSMW last reached #1 in August 2016 when it logged a 10.5 (6+). Whereas March 2019’s 9.8 is its best 6+-performance since July 2018’s 10.0, April 2019’s 8.2 is its weakest in more than three years (8.1, March 2016). In three straight sweeps without an increase, iHeartMedia’s WTQR was a cumulative -1.0 (6.0 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+), but “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” erases 70% of that deficit with a +.7 to 5.7 (eighth to sixth, 6+). Flat in March, “Q-104.1” substituted January’s +.7 with a February -.7 (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Its format rival – Entercom’s WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” – is off four-tenths in May and continues an alternating up/down pattern that has kept it within 5.2 – 5.7 range (5.2 – 5.7 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 5.3, 6+). Before dropping two-tenths in March, “The Wolf” had three consecutive shifts of one-half share: -.5 (“Holiday” 2018); +.5 (January 2019); and +.5 (February). Tacking on one-half share to April’s +.7 (2.5 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned rocker WVBZ “105.7 – Man Up” continues at #11 with its best 6+-showing (3.7) since November 2018’s 4.0. Notching a May increase of one-half share as well is Dick Broadcasting’s WKRR “Rock 92,” which improves by seven-tenths in April/May (5.8 – 6.0 – 6.5, steady at #5, 6+) and flashes its highest 6+-stat (6.5) since July 2018’s 6.6. Up one-tenth (9.7 – 9.8, 6+), Entercom urban AC WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” repeats at #1. An April increase of six-tenths pulled the plug on five straight declines that resulted in a -2.3 (11.4 – 10.8 – 10.3 – 9.9 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). On top in January and February, WQMG’s consecutive streak of reaching double-digits (6+) was snapped at 26 in January. A collective +1.8 via four consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.8 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 4.6, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss-FM” forfeits seven-tenths to 3.9 (6+) but remains in ninth-place. In April, “Kiss” reached the four-share level (4.6, 6+) for the first time since its 4.1 in April 2018. Unchanged at #7, Dick Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WKZL “107.5 The #1 Hit Music Station” has a February 2019 through May 2019 topline of 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.3 (6+). Despite a one-half share decline (4.4 – 3.9, 6+), Curtis Media Group regional Mexican WYMY “La Ley 101.1 FM” improves from tenth to a ninth-place tie.
Memphis
Spoken-Word Formats – Anchored at #8, iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600
AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” is trending 4.4 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.1 (February – March – April – May, 6+).
Off one-half share in four straight reports without an increase (4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+), Entercom sports talk WMFS “ESPN Sports Radio” remains at #12. Its internet stream appeared with a .1 (6+) in December and “Holiday” 2018; disappeared from print in January and February; but logs a .1 (6+) for the third straight time (flat at #18, 6+). It is tied (at #18) with co-owned WMC-AM “ESPN 790,” which is without an increase for the 11th straight time (including nine consecutive .1 showings) for a collective loss of three-tenths (.4 – .4 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 -.1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+).
Memphis Music Formats – A +1.0 to 4.8 (tenth to seventh, 6+) by Entercom hot AC WMC-FM “FM 100 Today’s Best Mix” wipes away more than half of its cumulative February/March/April -1.8 (5.6 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 3.8, 6+). “FM 100” was -.7 in “Holiday” 2018 and +1.5 in January. While unchanged at #3, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WHRK “K-97.1” is +1.7 in four straight positive spikes (6.8 – 7.2 – 7.5 – 7.7 – 8.5, 6+) and logs its highest 6+-stat since June 2018 (8.5, as well). An increase of seven-tenths (3.3 – 4.0, 6+) propels Cumulus Media’s WXMX “98.1 The Max – Maximum Rock” into the top ten (#13 to #9). The last time “The Max” reached the four-share level (6+) was July 2018 (4.0, as well). Three straight increases by iHeartMedia gospel WHAL yield +1.3 (5.8 – 6.4 – 7.0 – 7.1, 6+) as “Hallelujah 95.7 – Memphis’ Inspiration Station” advances from fifth to fourth with its best 6+-showing since April 2018 (7.1, as well). It is a similar scenario for classic rock sibling WEGR “Rock 102.7,” whose consecutive trio of improvements nets nine-tenths (4.3 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 5.2, flat at #6, 6+). Albeit down or flat the third straight time for a collective -1.2 (11.6 – 11.4 – 10.4 – 10.4, 6+), co-owned urban AC KJMS “V-101” is #1 the seventh time in a row and in double-digits the 14th successive sweep. “Holiday” 2018’s 12.8 is the highest 6+-share since December 2012’s 13.5 for “V-101,” which was +2.3 in December/“Holiday” 2018 (10.5 – 11.5 – 12.8, 6+). In addition to being an overall -2.4 in three straight declines (8.9 – 7.8 – 7.7 – 6.5, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRVR “104.5 The River” slips from third to fifth with its lowest 6+-figure (6.5) since June 2017’s 6.0. Seven recent WRVR fluctuations include: +2.4 (October 2018); -1.6 (December); +2.0 (“Holiday” 2018); -3.1 (January 2019); +.7 (February); -1.1 (March); and -1.2 (May). “Holiday” 2018’s 11.3 is its strongest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2017’s 12.9 (#6). Not benefitting from WRVR’s recent setbacks, Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted WKIM “98.9 The Bridge” has squandered nearly half (-.7) its 6+ AQH-share in April/May (1.6 – 1.1 – .9, #15 to #16, 6+) and has its lowest 6+-stat (.9) since transitioning from urban-rhythmic oldies to AC in late-2017. “The Bridge” reached the five-share level (6+) in “Holiday” 2018, but was a combined -4.0 in January/February (5.1 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+). Not only is iHeartMedia’s WDIA -1.8 in four successive decreases (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 3.8 – 3.5, 6+), “AM 1070 – The Heart & Soul of Memphis” departs the top ten (#10 to #12).
Hartford
Spoken-Word Formats – Following four straight bumps that netted +2.4 (5.2 –
5.7 – 5.9 – 7.3 – 7.6, 6+), Entercom news/talk WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” surrenders three-tenths to 7.3 (6+) but remains in third-place. Albeit down an overall one-half share in four consecutive sweeps without an increase (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.1 – .9 – .8, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting 
news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” repeats at #15, after finishing at #14 in January, February, and March. This marks the 12th report in a row that iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410” logs a .1 (#17 to #19, 6+).
Locked on 1.8 (6+) in March and April, iHeartMedia sports talk WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” falters by two-tenths to 1.6 (6+) and continues at #12.
Unchanged at #9, Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” is off nine-tenths in April/May (5.3 – 4.7 – 4.4, 6+). After losing four-tenths in March, University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio” is a combined +.5 in April/May (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.6, 6+) and progresses from #14 to #12.
Hartford Music Formats – Owing to three straight increases, Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-FM “102.9 The Whale – Connecticut’s Classic Rock” is +1.1 (5.3 – 5.4 – 6.0 – 6.4, 6+) and progresses from seventh to fifth. Notwithstanding that it is #1 for the 35th consecutive time, Entercom adult contemporary WRCH has experienced considerable shifting in each of the past eight ratings periods. Specifically, “Lite 100.5” has been -.8 (November); +1.8 (December); +5.6 (“Holiday” 2018 to 18.0, the strongest 6+-showing for any Hartford station since WRCH recorded an 18.3 in “Holiday” 2017); -6.9 (January); +1.0 (February; -1.0 (March); -1.3 (April); and now +1.0 in May (9.8 – 10.8, 6+). Prior to slipping to 9.8 in April, WRCH was in double-digits (6+) in 30 of the last 32 sweeps. Even though hot AC cluster-mate WTIC-FM forfeits all but one-tenth of April’s +.9 (8.5 – 7.7, -.8, 6+), “96.5 TIC-FM” continues in second-place. April’s 8.5 is WTIC-FM’s highest 6+-share since July 2018 (8.6). Still in that Entercom cluster, rhythmic CHR WZMX “Hot 93.7” is -1.9 in three setbacks in succession (7.9 – 6.6 – 6.5 – 6.0, fifth to seventh, 6+), following January/February’s +1.1 (6.8 – 7.7 – 7.9, 6+). By adding two-tenths to 6.3 (steady at #6, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WXSS “Kiss 95.7” curtails three straight negative trends that produced a loss of eight-tenths (6.9 – 6.8 – 6.2 – 6.1, 6+). While it remains in fourth-place, co-owned WWYZ “Country 92.5” falters by an overall nine-tenths in four consecutive reports without an increase (7.7 – 7.0 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.8, 6+). Red Wolf Broadcasting alternative WMRQ hasn’t had an increase this calendar year yet is only down two-tenths (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.4, January 2019 through May 2019, 6+) and “Radio 104.1” actually improves from tenth to a ninth-place tie.
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Pioneering KGO, San Francisco Morning Personality Jim Dunbar Dies at 89. The radio personality who is credited with taking KGO, San Francisco from the ratings cellar to the
highly rated legendary news/talk station it was for decades is dead at 89. Jim Dunbar joined KGO in 1963, charged with battling crosstown KSFO-AM morning radio king Don Sherwood. Dunbar quickly topped Sherwood and his show was #1 for 25 consecutive years, his daughter Brooke Dunbar tells the San Francisco Chronicle. Regarding KGO’s approach to news/talk, the Chronicle notes that Dunbar once told the paper, “There were stations doing news and stations doing talk but nobody put it together quite the way that we did.”
PPM Analysis: All-News. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on all-news. There are 16 stations in PPM markets across the U.S. that air an all-news format (and Entercom operates all but three of them). Almost three quarters of them saw their weekly 6+ AQH share go down from the February 2019 survey. Year-over-year by the same metric, movement up or down was split almost evenly. Three stations – Entercom’s WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago and WWJ, Detroit as well as Hubbard’s WTOP, Washington – ranked #1 in their respective markets in March. See the whole report here.
The Radio Television Digital News Association Announces Regional 2019 Edward R. Murrow Award Winners. The Radio Television Digital News Association reveals the winners of the 2019 Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards honoring outstanding achievement in
broadcast and digital journalism, technical expertise, and adherence to RTDNA’s Code of Ethics. The RTDNA says a record 4,600 entries were submitted for this year’s competition. From that, more than 720 regional winners were selected for breaking news, continuing coverage, investigative reporting, overall excellence and more. See all the winners here. iHeartMedia and Entercom were well represented in the regional round with iHM stations winning eight awards and Entercom stations grabbing 23 regional awards. Hubbard Radio’s WTOP, Washington won 10 regional awards by itself. RTDNA chairman Jerry Walsh says, “Public trust in journalism is threatened by a lack of understanding about the reporting process. The Edward R. Murrow Awards are an opportunity for our industry to showcase what well trained, ethical local journalists are doing to better our communities on behalf of the public. We invite viewers and readers to learn more about the reporting process behind each of these stories, and to know this same process is happening every single day in preparation for every single newscast.” The winners were judged in 14 regions and represent 309 local radio and TV newsrooms. They move on to the national round of judging. The national awards will be presented at RTDNA’s Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala at Gotham Hall in New York on October 14.
Entercom Adds More Nielsen Tools with New, Comprehensive Agreement. This deal between Entercom and Nielsen allows the former to add more of Nielsen’s suite of measurement tools to its arsenal of data-driven capabilities for advertisers. The two
companies say that as part of the agreement, Entercom will enhance its portfolio of Nielsen tools with new products including Nielsen Media Impact, RHIZA, Nielsen Marketing Cloud, and the Tally Engine API. The agreement also includes other Nielsen products, such as the Nielsen Radio Market Report, Tapscan, and the nationwide and national regional database, as well as 
Arbitrends, Weeklies, PD Advantage Web, Gracenote, and The Analysis Tool, in select markets across Entercom’s portfolio of 235 radio stations. Nielsen notes that in 2018, Nielsen Media Impact introduced the addition of national AM/FM radio in Portable People Meter radio markets, allowing media buyers to understand the value of radio and the incremental reach achieved by including radio in the media mix. Entercom COO Weezie Kramer says, “We are excited about the possibilities that this portfolio of measurement tools brings to our business. This agreement is part of our strategy to demonstrate the impact of including radio in an advertiser’s media mix to deliver optimal campaign reach and frequency.”
TALKERS News Notes. Dallas news/talk 820 AM WBAP is hosting its fourth annual
WeatherCon at the Frontiers of Flight Museum on Saturday, April 27. The Cumulus Media station’s WeatherCon is a free, family-friendly event that features informative and entertaining weather seminars throughout the day, including a session hosted by WBAP chief meteorologist Brad Barton with WFAA-TV chief meteorologist Pete Delkus. For a fourth year, WFAA-TV is bringing its entire meteorology team, green screen, and Max Reality 
activation to the event…..ABC Radio is launching a new podcast titled, “Life After Suicide,” and hosted by ABC News’ chief medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton. ABC Radio says, “Dr. Ashton draws from her own tragic experience to explore the aftermath of suicide and sudden loss, and, like her new book Life After Suicide, the podcast is a roadmap to survival, offering inspiring insight on how to regain balance and get back to life. She speaks with people living with loss who have moved through guilt, anger and hopelessness to a new normal as well as with survivors and specialists in medicine, faith and more on how to heal from any type of traumatic
experience.”…..Cadence13 is launching a new division dubbed C13Originals to focus on original storytelling and developing a slate of IP through a new premium-level, in-house production studio. Cadence13 chief content officer Chris Corcoran is leading C13Originals and Emmy award-winning filmmaker Zak Levitt is EVP of production. C13Originals will launch with “Gangster Capitalism,” a seasonal docu-series that will offer an in-depth look at white collar corruption in America and season one will explore the college admissions scandal, dubbed “Operation Varsity Blues” by the FBI.
Mueller Report/Impeachment Talk, 2020 Presidential Politics, Southern Border Crisis, Sri Lanka Bombings Aftermath, Putin-Kim Summit, ‘Jeopardy!’ Record Breaker, Avengers: Endgame Film, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/23). The reaction to the release of the redacted Mueller Report and the debate among Democrats over impeachment possibilities; the candidates for president in 2020 and policy propositions; the migrant issues at the U.S.-Mexico border; the aftermath of the deadly Sri Lanka bombings and ISIS’ claim of responsibility; the meeting between Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the record-breaking “Jeopardy!” streak by James Holzhauer; the new Marvel Comics film Avengers: Endgame; the NBA playoffs; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS CONVENTION SPOTLIGHT: Panel Discussion to Address the Relationship Between Radio Broadcasting and Podcasting. One of the many highlights planned for the forthcoming Talkers 2019: Telling the Story on Friday, June 7 in New York City will be an
information-packed panel discussion focusing on the very special relationship that exists 
between radio broadcasting and podcasting. Titled “Radio Broadcasting and Podcasting,” the session will feature panelists: Greg Batusic, COO, PodcastOne; Steve Goldstein, founder/CEO, Amplifi Media; Michael Czarnecki, program director of WONK-FM, Washington, DC and the iHeart Podcast Channel; and Craig Schwalb, program director, WABC, New York. The session will be moderated by Mike Kinosian, managing editor and West Coast bureau chief, TALKERS. The tie between
radio broadcasting and podcasting is unique due to shared audio elements and is ripe 
with revenue and brand-extension potential for those professional broadcasters who navigate their similarities and differences properly. It also provides a vital two-way street connecting talent and content between the platforms that holds the promise of mutually beneficial resources for each as we move further into the digital era. Don’t miss this session! The TALKERS convention is rapidly heading toward being an early sellout. To see the entire up-to-the-minute agenda and registration/hotel information, please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Two programming changes take place at Beasley Media Group’s Fort Myers operations. Program director and morning personality Matt Mangas leaves adult contemporary WJPT to take the program director and midday personality post at the cluster’s rock WRXK. Joining WJPT as
morning host and PD is Chris Randolph, who comes to Fort Myers from his most recent position with W&B Broadcasting’s classic hits WAKY-AM/FM. Cluster operations manager Adam Star says, “I have worked closely with Matt Mangas for 
years and have witnessed his passion and programming knowledge first hand. He made it an easy decision to move him cross the hallway from WJPT to lead WRXK as the new program director. Trying to find a replacement for Mangas on WJPT was a challenge until we met Chris Randolph. Randolph’s velvet voice and extensive major market experience were a perfect fit to win on WJPT as the new program director and morning man.”…..Entercom signs rock KISW morning team “BJ & Migs” – BJ Shea and Steve Migs – to a new deal to continue hosting the morning show. Entercom Seattle SVP and market manager Jack Hutchison says, “2019 will mark the 13th year ‘BJ & Migs’ have been with us on ‘The Rock’ and we are thrilled to continue this partnership. They have developed an unprecedented rapport with our listeners and we look forward to what is to come.”…..iHeartMedia’s adult hits
KYMT, Las Vegas “93.1 The Mountain” names AD Rowntree morning drive host and assistant program director. Rowntree was most recently a personality on the company’s rock KIOZ-FM, San Diego “ROCK 105.3.” In addition to his role with KYMT, he’ll continue to be heard in other iHeartMedia markets including: Houston, Sacramento, Denver and nationwide on iHeartRadio’s digital custom rock stations…..Production pro Bob Simpson is retiring from his position 
with Cumulus Media Indianapolis next month. He’s been with Cumulus Indianapolis for the past 17-plus years and has worked in radio for just shy of 50 years. Cumulus Indianapolis VP and market manager Chuck Fredrick says, “Simply put, Bob is fantastic at his craft and the audio industry has him to thank for a creative and compelling job well done.” Taking on the role of production director for the cluster is Jenn White, who worked in the same position with Entercom Indianapolis…..Heritage classic rocker, WAPL, Appleton, Wisconsin is honored by the Wisconsin Area Music Industries with the organization’s Radio Station of the Year 2019 Award. The Woodward Communications station was nominated in the People’s Choice Radio Station category for Northeast Wisconsin. This is the fourth Radio Station of the Year – Northeast division Award WAPL has won in the past six years. In 2016, WAPL morning show and “Home Brewed” host Len Nelson was honored with the President’s Award for his continuing service to the Wisconsin music industry and its musicians.
Thursday, March 28, 2019
iHeartMedia and Connoisseur Agree to Erie, PA and Frederick, MD Swap. The stations that Connoisseur Media is getting in this deal – news/talk WFMD-AM and country WFRE-FM
in Frederick, Maryland – come from the Aloha Trust that iHeartMedia created 11 years ago for stations it has to sell to comply with ownership caps. In exchange, iHeartMedia will get six stations from Connoisseur Media in Erie – CHR WRTS-FM, rock WRKT-FM, adult hits WXBB-FM, country WTWF-FM, news/talk 
WJET-AM and sports talk WFNN-AM and adult contemporary WLTM-FM in Mina, New York. The companies expect the deal to close in the second quarter of this year. Connoisseur CEO Jeffrey Warshaw says, “iHeart is getting a remarkable team and an amazing array of brands. We have owned the stations for 13 years and have tremendous gratitude for the people of Erie. We are excited to enter the Frederick market with these legendary properties.” Meanwhile, iHeartMedia Allentown/Harrisburg region president Dan Lankford states, “We’re very pleased to have the opportunity to expand our reach and establish a presence in the Erie and Mina markets.”
PPM Analysis: Public Radio News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s February 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on public radio news/talk. More public radio news/talkers were up (60%) than down (weekly 6+ AQH share) from the January survey to the February survey, with perennial uber-performer KUOW, Seattle showing the best increase of 0.6 shares. About half of the stations on the panel were down (51%) from last February to this February, with KQED losing 2.3 shares in the San Jose market and 1.7 shares in the San Francisco market. However, both KUOW, Seattle and KQED, San Francisco ranked #1 in those markets in the February 2019 survey. Also ranking #1 in their respective markets were KPBS, San Diego; KCFR, Denver; and KUT, Austin. See the entire report here.
Backbone Demonstrating ‘Total Radio – In the Cloud’ at NAB Show. The NAB Show in Las Vegas gets underway on April 6 and among the “hot topics” that will be addressed at the huge confab are: content in the cloud, streaming, and podcasting, all of which attendees can see in operation at the Backbone Networks booth. The company says it will show how users can
create a completely virtualized radio production environment – all operating in the cloud. Backbone Networks will have a SUNY college radio station broadcasting live to demonstrate how students produce live and automated shows in the cloud, stream them, and automatically generate and publish podcasts – all done with just a Mac, a mixer, and a couple of mics. Attendees can see the broadcasters using Backbone’s Production Suite – the whole turnkey bundle for a complete radio station that includes: Backbone Radio – professional streaming radio station in the cloud, live and automated, always-on 24/7; Backbone Talk – broadcast multi-line call-in phone system; Backbone Co-Host – unlimited SIP/OPUS remotes and multi-location shows with no boxes or hardware; Backbone Hub – cloud assistant for automated production, podcast publication, Alexa briefings, and scheduling live audio and FTP show syndication to AM/FM stations; and more. If you’re going to the NAB Show, check out the Backbone Networks booth (#N6319).
ESPN: Live Sports Reached 22.3 Million 12+ Fans Via Radio Last Fall. The sports media giant says that its ESPN Audio segment conducted a custom live sports audio study with Nielsen for the period of August 30, 2018 to January 17, 2019 that concluded an estimated
22.3 million people – 9.2% of the 12+ population – listened to live sports on ESPN Radio on terrestrial stations. The study consisted of the company’s play-by-play broadcasts of college football including bowl games and the College Football Playoff, regular and post-season MLB action, and NFL & NBA games. ESPN VP, multimedia sales John Fitzgerald says, “ESPN Radio’s live events are at the core of what makes it so valuable to our advertisers. This study has shown that once again our unparalleled lineup of marquee matchups continues to grow our audience nationally and increase the reach of ESPN Radio.”
TALKERS News Notes. “I would probably say not,” is the quote from Chris “Mad Dog”
Russo about getting back together with Mike Francesa on Entercom’s sports talk WFAN, New York. Russo made the comment to WEPN, New York personality Michael Kay on his afternoon drive program. The competition between Kay and Francesa in afternoons in the Big Apple has been a big story in New York media 
lately…..Radio personality Walter M Sterling is serving as the guest star on KMOX, St. Louis’ late night, 10:00 pm to 2:00 am show. Sterling, whose Westwood One show “Sterling on Sunday” airs on KMOX, is sitting in for host Ryan Wrecker…..Today is Major League Baseball’s Opening Day and SiriusXM is beginning its season of presenting live play-by-play broadcasts of every game, all season long to accompany the news and analysis of baseball heard on the MLB Network channel on the satellite radio service.
Mueller Investigation Report Aftermath, Trump Administration’s Obamacare Battle, Charlottesville Guilty Plea, Jussie Smollett Case, Border Wall/Immigration Issue, Green New Deal, Brexit Chaos, NBA Action and NCAA Tournament Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/27). The aftermath of the completion of the Trump-Russia investigation and President Trump’s appearance on ‘Hannity’; the Trump administration’s moves to do away with the Affordable Care Act; James Alex Fields pleads guilty in the deadly car attack at the 2017 Charlottesville white nationalist rally; the controversy over the Illinois state’s attorney not to press charges against actor Jussie Smollett; the status of the U.S.-Mexico border wall and reports of migrant overcrowding in El Paso; the U.S. Senate’s vote on the Green New Deal; the political chaos in Britain over Theresa May’s EU exit proposal; NBA action and the NCAA tournament were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. There are two programming announcements from iHeartMedia Cleveland. First, programmer Carletta Blake moves from the company’s Raleigh country station WNCB “B93.9” to Cleveland to assume the PD post at country WGAR-FM, effective April 8.
Simultaneously, cluster programmer Jason Carr is named PD for adult hits WHLK “106.5 The Lake.” He adds this role to his PD duties at alternative WMMS-HD2/W256BT “ALT 99.1 FM” and his APD responsibilities at rock WMMS. 
iHeartMedia North Ohio president Keith Hotchkiss says, “I could not be more excited for Carletta and Jason. Both are incredibly adept and have proven, extensive track records of success with aligning our market-leading iHeartMedia brands across all platforms. They are a perfect match for the vision of these stations and I know they will continue to move WGAR and ‘The Lake’ forward with music and content our listeners love.”…..At Griffin Communications’ Tulsa radio cluster, programmer Brian Jennings exits his position as PD of country KVOO and classic country KXBL “Big Country 99.5” after 15 months with the stations…..iHeartMedia rock WZZO, Allentown “95.1 ZZO” adds the WMMS, Cleveland-based “Rover’s Morning Glory” program, effective Monday (4/1). The change
comes shortly after the recent death of longtime station morning personality Kevin “The Bearman” Schutts. Longtime morning co-host Keith Moyer is 
moving to the afternoon drive to host “The Keith Show.” He says, “I am thrilled for many reasons. My dream job has arrived. No more getting up at 3:00 am, I can actually stay out past 6:00 pm and I can spend more quality time with my family and friends and TV. I will be doing what I did in mornings, but now in the afternoon thus keeping The Bearman and Keith’s legacy alive! Plus, being the only live afternoon drive show, I have the freedom to get out of the studio and broadcast from all over the Lehigh Valley. ‘The Bearman and Keith’ will never be replaced, but ‘Rover’s Morning Glory’ is a great alternative and will be the second best morning show in WZZO’s history!”…..Westwood One’s syndicated country program “The Ty Bentli Show” is being heard across the pond as WWO strikes a deal with the UK’s Bauer Media, making it the only American program that’s part of its Country Hits Radio format. Bentli and cast members Chuck Wicks and Tricia “TJ Jenkins” will debut there on April 5 in markets including: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, South Yorkshire, Lancashire, Humberside, Tyne & Wear, Teesside, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Tayside, Inverness, and Ayr…..Entercom and RCS ink a new deal for an expanded, long-term data partnership for the broadcaster’s use of RCS’ Mediabase service. As part of the agreement, Mediabase will provide Entercom with comprehensive music listening and consumption data for the company’s portfolio of over 235 stations nationwide. Additionally, Entercom will report the company’s weekly station music adds to the Mediabase platform.
Monday, March 18, 2019
Atlanta’s ‘92.9 The Game’ Ousts Midday Hosts Rick Kamla and John Michaels. First reported by Atlanta Journal Constitution writer Rodney Ho, the midday team of Rick Kamla and John Michaels – together on the air since 2016 – has been let go by Entercom sports talker WZGC-FM, Atlanta “92.9 The Game.” Kamla was part of 
the station’s morning show when WZGC launched as a sports talk station in 2012, but later moved to middays. He was joined by Michaels in 2016. Michaels confirmed his exit via Twitter saying they were given a number of reasons why they were being let go, including “not connecting with the audience.” WZGC has made no public comments about the changes, including its plans for the 10:00 am to 2:00 pm slot.
Kridel Reduces Air Time at WBBM, Chicago. As reported by Chicago media writer Robert
Feder, news anchor Kris Kridel is scaling back her time on the air at Entercom’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago to part-time status. The 34-year station veteran will now be heard from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm. She had been on the air for six straight hours. Feder reports that Lisa Fielding will be on the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm program with co-anchor Keith Johnson most weekdays.
Monday Memo: The Boys Are Back. Consultant Holland Cooke delivers this week’s Monday Memo from the heart of Red Sox Nation with advice about the return of baseball to radio’s airwaves: “Mathematically, baseball may be affiliates’ best friend for the next several months, when play-by-play invites new cume, and tune-in to fringe hours; and is full of suspense and commercial inventory that sells without numbers.” In this week’s Monday Memo, Cooke – ALREADY wearing his Red Sox jersey – offers three tips for boosting awareness and recycling and impressing advertisers. Read it here.
Westwood One Promotes Stuart Greenblatt to SVP. Serving in his 20th year with Westwood One, Stuart Greenblatt is promoted to senior vice president, affiliate sales. In
his previous VP, affiliate sales post, he was in charge of station services for the network’s talk show properties. In his new role, Greenblatt will oversee the distribution and marketing of all Westwood One programs and affiliate services for radio stations around the country, as well as supervise the national affiliate sales team and manage station client relationships. Greenblatt says, “After working in affiliate sales for almost 20 years, I am honored to be leading the affiliate sales team here at Westwood One, truly the best in the business. I look forward to working together with our station partners and our outstanding sales team to grow and promote our first-rate programming across the board.”
Nielsen’s National Media Impact Added to Westwood One’s Audio Insights Platform. This deal between Nielsen and Westwood One allows the latter to license the national version of Nielsen Media Impact (NMI) powered by Nielsen’s Total Media Fusion. NMI is a
cross-platform media planning and optimization solution that helps clients understand total campaign reach, frequency, and duplication using advanced audience segments. It will enable Westwood One to demonstrate the value that its unique audiences bring to an advertiser’s media plan and illustrate radio’s substantial incremental reach. Cumulus Media 
EVP of marketing and Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes says, “With Nielsen Media Impact, we can show our advertising partners the effect on overall campaign reach and frequency when money is moved between media. Advertisers will be able to access this tool through the groundbreaking Westwood One ROI Guarantee audio insights platform. It’s a new dimension in making media investments work smarter for marketers using radio, podcasting, and streaming to drive ROI. We welcome the opportunity to demonstrate the power of adding audio to a media plan, giving agencies and brands the information they need to understand the true value of our medium in driving sales.” Nielsen says that in 2018, it enhanced NMI to include national radio. Nielsen’s national radio data within Nielsen Media Impact allows buyers and sellers to understand the value of radio as a medium at the national level, as well as the incremental reach achieved by including national radio in the media mix. With the national version of Nielsen Media Impact clients can plan and optimize media allocation and compare total radio, radio formats, and radio owner groups with other national media (including TV, digital, print, cinema and digital place-based media) in advanced audience segments.
Randi P’Pool Joins Aptivada as Chief Marketing Officer. Leaving her role with Alpha Media as vice president of marketing is Randi P’Pool, who joins Aptivada, a provider of
promotions contesting and audience engagement tools as chief marketing officer. In her role with Alpha Media (which, along with iHeartMedia and Bonneville,is a client of Aptivada) P’Pool led national promotions, corporate partnerships, digital contesting, company communications and PR, events and cross-platform brand marketing. In her new role, she’ll join Aptivada’s leadership team focusing on the strategic evolution and growth of Aptivada. P’Pool says, “Not only does Aptivada offer the optimum digital marketing platform but it also provides extremely innovative solutions to generate new digital revenue for broadcasters. The opportunity to support, foster and endorse a company as innovative and remarkable as Aptivada is the utmost honor and privilege for me!”
TALKERS News Notes. As long as the court schedule doesn’t change, former WFAN, New
York morning drive personality Craig Carton will learn his fate on April 5 at his sentencing on conspiracy and fraud charges. According to sentencing guidelines, Carton could get as much as 45 years in prison, although it’s likely he’ll serve far less than that. Two of his convicted co-conspirators have already been sentenced. Michael Wright is serving a sentence of almost two years and Joseph Meli is doing six and-a-half years. The three were involved in a Ponzi scheme that took money from investors in a VIP concert ticket re-sale business. Prosecutors convinced jurors Carton spent some of the money paying off gambling debts and for personal expenses…..The Buffalo News reports that Entercom has sold its radio tower on Grand Island – one that carries the signal for CHR WKSE-FM “Kiss 98.5” to Vertical Bridge for almost $1.5 million. WKSE’s signal will continue to emanate from the tower under a leaseback deal…..Condolences to the family and friends of Dave Sandler – a former longtime traffic reporter for Hearst’s WBAL-AM, Baltimore – who passed away last Thursday evening at age 58 after a long illness. Sandler was known as “Detour Dave Sandler” to WBAL and rock WIYY-FM. He exited WBAL in 2017 after 31 years there.
Mosques Massacre Aftermath, Trump’s Weekend Tweetstorm, College Admissions Scandal, Boeing’s 737 Woes, Trump-Russia Investigation Status, 2020 Democratic Hopefuls/Kirsten Gillibrand Announces, Midwest Flooding, NBA Action, and NCAA Tournament Seeding Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The aftermath of the mosques attacks in New Zealand that left 50 people dead; President Trump’s weekend tweets that took aim at General Motors and a UAW boss, the late Senator John McCain, and NBC’s “Saturday Night Live”; the blowback from the college admissions cheating scandal; Boeing’s challenges with the 737 Max planes in the wake of the second crash in five months; the status of the investigation into possible Trump campaign connections with Russian agents; the Democrats hoping to challenge President Trump in 2020, including the entrance of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand; the devastating floods in Nebraska and Iowa; NBA hoops action; and the 2019 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament bracket were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Hexagon 2019: Romp in the Swamp. Nationally syndicated late-night talk show host Jim Bohannon (left) poses for a photo with former NBC anchor Jackie Nedell (right) on the set of the satirical musical comedy review, “Hexagon 2019: Romp in the Swamp,” in Washington on Friday (3/15).
Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Des Moines alternative rock KDXA “ALT 106.3,” Alex Mac is named assistant program director, adding the duties to his roles as afternoon drive personality and music director. iHeartMedia Des Moines SVP of programming
Greg Chance says, “Alex has a bright programming future and has displayed all the characteristics of a great programmer. We are excited to see him further develop his career.” Prior to joining the iHeartMedia Des Moines market in October 2017, Mac served as evening host and promotions assistant for WRXL-FM, Richmond…..Entercom radio personality Ken Hicks is being recognized by the Georgia State Senate for his career in radio and community service. Hicks hosts the morning show at WUSY-FM, Chattanooga “U.S. 101” that serves a large portion of Northwest Georgia. Entercom Chattanooga SVP and market manager Nichole Hartman says, “In his nearly 35 years with ‘U.S. 101,’ Ken has raised millions of dollars for charities, assisted in relief efforts for dozens of disasters, and has served and continues to serve the Chattanooga and North Georgia community with his whole heart. Ken epitomizes the distinct group of people deserving of this honor and I am proud that he is a part of our team.”…..In the Palm Springs market, Tommy Carrera, a.k.a. Tommy C, exits his PD roles with Alpha Media. He’d been programming both country KDES “98.5 The Bull” and classic hits KDGL “106.9 The Eagle.”
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
Sean Hannity Broadcasts from Hanoi. Hitching a ride with a motorcyclist in the photo above is Premiere Networks and FOX News Channel star Sean Hannity as he broadcasts both his radio and TV shows from Vietnam to cover President Trump’s meeting with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Hannity, who will work from Southeast Asia through Friday (3/1), said via Twitter, “Getting to work in Vietnam traffic was crazy so I hopped out & this guy gave me a lift. #VietNamSummit.”
PPM Analysis: All-News. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s January 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on the all-news format. Coming off the previous Holiday 2018 survey all of the all-news stations on the panel saw their weekly 6+ AQH share improve. More than 60% of the stations were up – based on the same metric – from last January’s survey to this year’s. Entercom’s WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago (+1.5) and WWJ, Detroit (+1.0) led the gainers. Both stations also ranked #1 in their respective markets in January, along with Hubbard Radio’s WTOP-FM, Washington (10.4 share) and Entercom’s KCBS-AM (7.1 share in the San Jose market). See the whole report here.
Westwood One: Midday Listening Tops Drive Time. In the latest Westwood One blog post, chief insights officer Pierre Bouvard writes that, based on data from Nielsen, the 10:00 am
to 3:00 pm daypart represents 26% of radio listening by adults 25-54, compared to 21% each for morning and afternoon drive. The extra hour (drive times have just four hours each) accounts for the difference but Bouvard points out that advertisers buying only drive times are missing out. “Countless sales lift and ROI studies conclude that the number one media factor that drives sales is reach. The more people a campaign reaches, the greater the sales lift. Increasing reach insures a campaign can impact sales. Restricting AM/FM radio buys to drives times misses 60% of the radio audience. It reduces reach and harms advertiser sales lift.” See the difference between advertisers’ perceptions about when heavy radio listening occurs and when it actually does based on Nielsen data in the blog post here.
SAG-AFTRA Goes Public in Entercom Negotiations Matter. The union representing some radio staffers with Entercom stations in Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and San Francisco is calling out Entercom, asking it to “engage in fair contract negotiations.” SAG-AFTRA says its members at those stations have been in active
negotiations for new union contracts since late last year. While, negotiations are ongoing, SAG-AFTRA says “members are going public for the first time with their disappointment with the 
company’s proposals.” President Gabrielle Carteris adds, “The company’s suggested proposals would erode significant benefits in our members’ contracts and lack recognition of the major contributions our members make to Entercom stations across the country. We encourage a real partnership with Entercom as we look to achieve a meaningful and fair resolution of these negotiations.” What are the hang-ups? SAG-AFTRA says its members “are seeking fair increases to compensation, benefits, and limited benefits for part-time employees as well as a willingness to participate in the shift to the digitally focused radio business. Entercom is seeking to dramatically slash severance benefits and eliminate jobs with the expanded use of pre-recorded and non-local shows.”
TALKERS News Notes. The seasonal, 20-part series “Tax Tips” is being made available to affiliates of Westwood One News. Correspondent Ann Cates hosts the one-minute feature. Topics cover the withholding calculator, smartphone filing, phone scams, earned income tax credit, how to find online help, the taxpayer bill of rights, ghost tax preparers, IRS audits, and more…..“CHANNEL Q” is now available in six more markets as Entercom expands the LGBTQ+ Talk Radio Network. The company says the format brings the latest in LGBTQ+ news and information, pop culture, and new music to listeners in 14 markets and via the RADIO.COM app nationwide. It’s now available in New York, Chicago, Boston, Miami, Hartford, and Portland. Entercom Southern California SVP and market manager Jeff Federman says, “We’re extremely proud and excited by the tremendous growth of ‘CHANNEL Q,’ its success is a testament to the desire to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. ‘CHANNEL Q’ began as a passion project for our team in Los Angeles and we are thrilled to see the great reception it has received from coast to coast. We look forward to informing and engaging with new listeners in these new cities we are now a part of.”…..The Bob & Tom Show launches its new comedy app. The Bob & Tom Show app offers fans the ease of listening to the show on their local station, as well as one-touch access to the Bob & Tom comedy channel, called “Bob & Tom 24/7.” “Bob & Tom 24/7” features The Bob & Tom Show live every weekday morning, plus classic highlights, bits, songs and segments from the show’s rich archive of digital audio content…..SiriusXM NFL Radio is covering this week’s annual NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis today through Sunday, March 3. SiriusXM NFL Radio’s expert hosts in Indianapolis will include Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2019 member Gil Brandt, former NFL front office executives Mark Dominik and Pat Kirwan, former NFL players Charles Davis, Jim Miller and Brady Quinn, plus Alex Marvez, Bruce Murray, John Hansen and Adam Caplan.
Trump-Kim Jong Un Summit, Cohen Testimony, Trump-Russia Investigation, Border Wall/Emergency Declaration, 2020 Democratic Hopefuls, AOC-Ivanka Wages Spat, Venezuela Unrest, India-Pakistan Tensions, and NBA/NCAA Hoops Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/26). The meeting between President Trump and North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un; the congressional testimony expected from former Trump attorney Michael Cohen; the status of the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the House’s vote to nullify President Trump’s emergency declaration; the Democrats hoping to challenge President Trump in 2020; the media argument over wages and entitlements between Ivanka Trump and Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez; the violence in Venezuela as Nicolas Madura clings to power; the military tensions between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir dispute; and NBA and NCAA basketball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Tomorrow Marks 10thAnniversary of Paul Harvey’s Passing. Radio’s Best Friend Art
Vuolo alerts TALKERS magazine that tomorrow (2/28) will be the 10th anniversary of the death of radio news legend Paul Harvey. He provides a video of what he believes is Harvey’s last address to the industry (delivered at the 2003 R&R TRS event) – a 17-minute keynote speech that you can see here. Art also relates a funny, personal story. “My late mother, Amy Vuolo, actually made Paul Harvey’s famous ‘For What It’s Worth’ department (his end-kicker story.) In 1974, she lectured for Weight Watchers which had bumper stickers that said, ‘My Spare Tire is in the trunk.’ A member of her class put the sticker on her car and someone broke into the trunk and stole the spare tire! True story.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. This year’s iHeartRadio Music Awards taking place on March 14 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles will feature performances by Alicia Keys, Ariana Grande, Halsey, Garth Brooks, John Legend, and Kacey Musgraves, with more to be announced. The sixth annual iHeartRadio Music Awards is being aired (delayed) at 8:00 pm ET on FOX television. It’s also
airing live on iHeartMedia radio stations nationwide and the iHeartRadio platform…..JVC Media announces that radio pro Steve Harper is joining the company as a member of the Long Island events team and member of the afternoon show on WPTY-HD2/W251BY, Patchogue, New York “Oldies 98.1.” JVC New York general manager Bruce Shepard says, “Steve is a great addition to our staff. He will not only be on the airwaves at JVC, he’ll also work with the team of Long Island Events – the JVC NTR company – to develop new and exciting live events and festivals. I am thrilled to have him on board.”…..Country radio pro Andy Roberts exits the Champaign, Illinois operations of Saga Communications where he was most recently program director for country WIXY and classic country WYXY. He’d also served as morning host at WIXY for more than 20 years.
Monday Memo: Podcast Ads Work
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — From a recently-published Nielsen study commissioned by Stitcher:
- 61% of consumers exposed to podcast ads for well-known national brands were more likely to purchase the advertised product.
- Podcast advertising generates up to 4.4 times better brand recall than other forms of digital advertising (ad banners, pop-ups, etc.).
- More is more: When the study probed national packaged goods brands, it found 43% greater recall of longer customized ads than shorter copy.
- The personal touch: Those who heard a host-read ad (for a national soft drink brand in this case) were 118% more likely to buy than those who didn’t hear the ad. I see this as an advantage for radio talent, whose endorsement spots can be powerfully effective.
Monday, January 7, 2019
Jeff Poor Show Launches on WVNN, Huntsville. Conservative media figure Jeff Poor begins hosting a daily talk radio program on Cumulus Media’s WVNN, Huntsville “NewsTalk
770AM/92.5FM” today (1/7). Poor serves as the editor of Breitbart News’ media vertical, is a regular contributor to Yellowhammer News, and a political columnist for Lagniappe, Mobile, Alabama’s alternative weekly newspaper. Poor previously reported in Washington, D.C. for The Daily Caller and the Media Research Center. WVNN program director Dale Jackson states, “Jeff Poor is an experienced media personality with a real ability to decipher local and national issues. His experience in media in Washington, D.C. and his Alabama upbringing make him the perfect fit for WVNN. I am thrilled to add Jeff to our already amazing lineup of local and national talkers.” The Jeff Poor show airs from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Sports Talk Moves in Grand Rapids as Cumulus Media’s WBBL-FM Drops Sports. According to MLive.com, Cumulus Media is flipping sports talk WBBL-FM, Grand Rapids to
country in a simulcast with sister WTNR-FM. That means a number of staffers have been let go and the statewide Bill Simonson-hosted program “The Huge Show” is no longer on the 107.3 FM frequency. Fired from WBBL are morning personalities Eric Zane and Ben Glaze as well as program director Marcus Bradman. The MLive piece indicates that “The Huge Show” – currently heard on 12 stations across Michigan – will continue as part of an agreement between Cumulus and Michigan Media Network and will be heard in Grand Rapids on Cumulus’ news/talk WJRW at 3:00 pm, effective today (1/7).
iHeartMedia Study: Radio Is Most-Trusted Medium. According to a study commissioned by iHeartMedia, radio is America’s most-trusted medium and iHeartMedia personalities are more trustworthy and relatable than top TV personalities. iHM states, “The survey found iHeartMedia’s focus on live and local programming and the deep, connection on-air
personalities have with listeners has led to iHeartRadio being considered the most trusted name in radio and its on-air personalities being more trusted than leading talk personalities in other media.” The study further found that “84% of respondents (people) said radio understands what is important to them, a number that is over 20% greater than network and cable television and social media. In addition, 8 out of 10 people feel that radio aligns with their core values, which is number one across all media.” iHeartMedia chief marketing officer Gayle Troberman says, “In a time when trust matters most to consumers, trust has become a critical criterium for media investment decisions and these findings are extremely compelling because they spotlight our unique and personal role in people’s lives each and every day. Furthermore, it spotlights why iHeartMedia is a leader in audio and reaches over a quarter billion listeners each month. Our personalities are more than just a voice on the radio, they are a trusted friend who shares common values 24/7 across 850 stations nationwide…and only iHeartMedia can deliver that scale, with the intimacy and authenticity consumers want.”
Monday Memo: Podcast Ads Work. Consultant Holland Cooke writes in today’s Monday Memo that, according to a Nielsen study, ads on podcasts delivered better and longer audience recall. Additionally, listeners who heard ads delivered by show hosts were 118% more likely to buy the product than those who didn’t hear the ad. Stitcher commissioner the study and the company’s chief revenue officer Korri Kolesa notes the power of podcasts “to speak to a generation of consumers who tend to be hard to reach through other digital media platforms.” See the entire Memo here.
Beasley Appoints Lori Burgess Chief Digital Content Officer. Consultant Lori Burgess has been working with Beasley Media Group on integrated marketing strategy since May of 2017.
Now the company names her to the newly created position of chief digital content officer. In this new role, she will be responsible for designing and overseeing the digital content strategy for the company. She says, “We are embarking upon an exciting business transformation, one focused on content excellence and proficiency across all media platforms. This expansion will allow our on-air talent to enhance their local market presence, fostering deeper and more engaged relationships with audiences and advertisers alike.” During her career, she has worked with such brands as: The Hollywood Reporter, Prevention Magazine, Conde Nast’s Mademoiselle and House & Garden; Elle Magazine; Seventeen Magazine, and Niche Media.
TALKERS News Notes. The CRN Digital Talk Radio-produced “Sports Lounge with Fred
Dryer” program is now airing on Dan Patrick Radio heard on SiriusXM Saturdays at 3:00 pm ET. Dryer – a 13-year NFL pro with the New York Giants and Los Angeles Rams and film & television actor – partners with CRN chief Mike Horn to 
talk about sports news and the politics of the game…..Los Angeles-based personality Sheena Metal – who has hosted the “Sheena Metal Experience” show on LA Talk Radio for the past 10 years, is hosting a live, audience-interactive radio broadcast from the Hollywood Improv on January 27. Metal says the show will celebrate her 10th LA Talk Radio anniversary as well as her five years as live event host at the legendary comedy club and will feature “lots of great celebrity guests on stage, a fun red carpet/meet-and-greet after the show and a chance to meet so many of the fantastic people who have made my daily show the media success that it is!”…..A new iHeartRadio original podcast premieres called, “Pratt Cast,” hosted by “The Hills” star Stephanie Pratt. She is one of the infamous “The Hills” stars coming back for the sequel. The podcast gives listeners an all access pass to everything happening on and off of the camera this season…..SAG-AFTRA and New York Public Radio reach a Voluntary Recognition Agreement that adds more than 25 new employees – including reporters for the news site Gothamist – to the union’s longstanding collective bargaining unit. It covers some 175 workers at NYPR.
Border Wall-Government Shutdown, Trump-Russia Investigation, Rashida Tlaib Flap, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ‘60 Minutes’ Interview, U.S.-Syria Policy, Golden Globe Awards, and NFL Playoff Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The battle over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the federal government shutdown; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the flap over freshman congresswoman Rashida Tlaib’s comment referring to President Trump as a “motherf*cker”; freshman congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s “60 Minutes” interview; the Trump administration’s Syria policy; Sunday evening’s Golden Globe awards; and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Charlotte CHR WHQC re-brands, leaving behind the “Channel 96.1” brand and taking up the new “HITS 96.1” name. The air staff at the iHeartMedia outlet remains the same. Station program director A.J. comments, “Charlotte is a very competitive market and these updates align the brand in a way that capitalizes on its current strengths. We’re excited to provide a fresh new experience for our listeners. This is an excellent opportunity for ‘The New HITS 96.1’ to be the home of the biggest hits and stars while allowing our audience to gain access to the greatest music and entertainment events in Charlotte.”…..Westwood One launches a new 
urban AC morning show into national syndication that stars Rick Party (left)and Sasha the Diva (right). The “Rick and Sasha” show is debuting on 15 stations, including: KMJK-FM,Kansas City; KMEZ-FM, New Orleans; WDLT-FM, Mobile; and more. Rick Party previously served with WHQT, Miami “HOT 105” and Sasha was a personality on WALR, Atlanta “Kiss 104.1.”…..Entercom’s classic rock WCMF, Rochester is celebrating 50 years as a rock station by kicking off its year-long “Rockin’ for 50 Years” celebration. The station will observe this milestone with special programming and promotions throughout the year, including “50th Anniversary Album Side Saturdays” that will highlight the 50-year music history of WCMF. Listeners will also be able to tune-in to “Riffer Madness” to hear iconic guitar riffs in classic rock as their cue to call for the chance to win prizes, including a WCMF 50th Anniversary electric guitar signed by current WCMF air staff. The year-long commemoration will also include anniversary themed merchandise and a new station logo highlighting the history and music of the past 50 years…..Radio One Buffalo, LLC owner and operator Buddy Shula announces that Glenn Topolski is named director of on air for oldies WECK-AM/W275BB in Buffalo. In addition to programming duties, Topolski also hosts the afternoon drive show. Topolski has served in the market at signals including: WTSS-FM, WBEN-AM, WGR-AM, and WWKB-AM. Shula says, “Glenn has helped WECK’s rank into the Nielson top 10 since joining 17 months ago. He has been with us from day one and is a person who lives and breathes radio. Glenn is a leader for the next generation on our industry.”…..Premiere Networks-syndicated personality Bobby Bones is profiled in the January issue of Texas Monthly. The piece delves into his radio journey from Austin to Nashville and his rise to becoming “…the most influential voice in country music today, with the power to turn new artists into breakout stars.”
December 2018 PPM Data – Part Four. December 2018 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio’s December 2018 survey period covered November 8 – December 5. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@Talkers.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets.
Austin
Spoken-Word Formats – A December decrease of eight-tenths by Emmis news/talk KLBJ
-AM “News Radio 590 AM” is twice the size of its November gain of four-tenths (4.5 – 3.7, eighth to ninth, 6+). KLBJ-AM was a combined -.3 in September and October (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.1, 6+).
In a repetitive September 2018 – December 2018 pattern of 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.4 (6+), Genuine Austin Radio sports talk KTXX climbs from #16 to #15. “The Horn” posted a +.5 in June; was -.9 in July; and +1.0 in September. In seven straight sweeps without a loss,
iHeartMedia’s similarly-programmed KVET-AM “1300 AM The Zone – Austin’s Sports Talk” has more than doubled (+.4) its 6+-share (.3 – .3 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .7 – .7, 6+) and is stable at #24.
Following three straight months at #1, KUT segues to #2 (8.5 – 8.2, -.3, 6+); the University of Texas at Austin-owned news/talk outlet was a collective +1.5 in September and October (7.1 – 7.9 – 8.6, 6+).
Austin Music Formats – Over the last four ratings periods, Entercom adult contemporary KKMJ has been -1.2 (September); +1.2 (October); -.5 November); and now +1.2 in December (6.2 – 7.4, 6+) as “Majic 95.5” carries on at #3. Its current 7.4 represents the strongest 6+-stat for KKMJ since “Holiday” 2017 (12.4). Urban AC KKMJ-HD3, which hadn’t had a decrease since February and was up a collective three-tenths in that stretch (1.2- 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+), is off one-tenth and exits the top twenty (1.4, #20 to #21, 6+). A December gain of seven-tenths to 5.5 (sixth to fifth, 6+) by Emmis regional Mexican KLZT “107.1 La Z” erases its collective -.7 in October and November (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.8, 6+). Just as it did in November, University of Texas at Austin-owned triple A KUTX posts a gain of six-tenths (2.1 – 2.7 – 3.3, #15 to #11, 6+). Prior to dropping three-tenths in October, “98.9 The Austin Music Experience” was up an overall six-tenths via six straight sweeps without a loss (1.8 – 1.8 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+). Three consecutive down or flat trends by Emmis’ KLBJ-FM accounted for a collective -1.3 (4.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.4, 6+) but “93.7 The Rock of Austin” gains three-tenths in December to 3.7 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#11 to #9). In addition to being a cumulative +1.0 in four straight up or flat moves (7.3 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 8.3 – 8.3, 6+), adult hits sibling KPBA “103.5 Bob-FM” progresses from the runner-up slot it held the past three months to #1. It is the first time since August that “Bob” has held the top spot. Faltering by eight-tenths (each) are its alternative cluster-mate KROX “101-X” (3.5 – 2.7, #10 to #14, 6+) and Univision Radio regional Mexican KLQB “Que Buena 104.3” (3.1 – 2.3, #13 to #19, 6+). This is the first time “101-X” has been below a three-share (2.7, 6+) since January 2018 (2.9), and KLQB’s lowest 6+-share (2.3) since June’s 2.2. Despite dropping six-tenths (4.5 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR KHFI “96.7 Kiss FM – Austin’s #1 Hit Music Station” remains in eighth-place. Logging decreases of one-half share each are KHFI’s rhythmic CHR sibling KPEZ “102.3 The Beat” (3.4 – 2.9, #11 to #13, 6+) and Emmis triple A KGSR “Austin City Limits Radio” (2.3 – 1.8, flat at #18, 6+). In three straight decreases, iHeartMedia country outlet KVET-FM “98.1 The Austin, Texas Original” has lost a collective eight-tenths but remains at #7 (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.6 – 4.5, 6+). Before posting a +.6 in September, KVET-FM was an overall -1.7 in four straight downward trends (6.4 – 6.1 – 6.0 – 5.6 – 4.7, 6+).
Raleigh
Spoken-Word Formats – While it remains in sixth-place, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK
“106.1 Stay Connected” has lost a combined seven-tenths in November and December (6.3 – 5.9 – 5.6, 6+). It was a collective +1.2 (5.1 – 5.5 – 6.3, 
6+) in September and October. Curtis Media Group news/talk WPTF regains half of November’s -.2 (1.6 – 1.7, +.1, 6+) and remains at #18. Prior to faltering by two-tenths in November, “News Radio 680” had nearly doubled (+.8) its 6+-share in eight straight sweeps without a loss (1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8, 6+).
A cumulative +.6 in September and October (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+), Capitol Broadcasting
sports talk WCMC “99.9 The Fan” surrenders half that gain in November and December (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.1, -.3, #16 to #17, 6+). Its increase of four-tenths in September stopped three losses in a row that accounted for more than a 50% reduction (-2.1) of its 6+-share (3.9 – 2.6 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+).
This is the fourth decline in a row for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC “91.5 North Carolina Public Radio” for a collective -1.6 (8.8 – 8.4 – 8.3 – 7.4 – 7.2, flat at #3, 6+). Recently, WUNC has gone from third to first (June, +9); first to third (July, -1.1); third to first (August, +1.2, 6+); first to second (September, -.4+); and second to third (November, -.9, 6+).
Raleigh Music Formats – Registering increases of one full-share each are Curtis Media Group classic hits-oldies WKIX “KIX 102.9 Carolina’s Greatest Hits” (4.1 – 5.1, #11 to #10, 6+) and – from Greensboro – iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG “99.5 The Best Variety of the ‘80s, ’90s, & Today” (.4 – 1.4, #20, 6+). WKIX reaches the five-share level for the first time since March 2018’s 5.0. An improvement of seven-tenths to 5.6 (ninth to seventh, 6+) by Curtis Media Group adult hits WBBB “96.1 Your Life – Your Music” halts a mini-slide that accounted for a -1.2 (6.1 – 5.2 – 4.9, 6+). An overall -1.0 in three downturns in a row (3.3 – 2.9 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WNCB “B-93.9 #1 For New Country” picks up one-tenth to 2.4 (6+) and remains at #14. A four-tenths decrease in September suspended at four its consecutive string of increases that netted six-tenths (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). Continuing at #5 is its format rival, Curtis Media Group’s WQDR “94.7 QDR Today’s Best Country,” which is a collective -1.9 in November and December (8.0 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+). This (6.1) is its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016 (6.0). With a +1.0 in September, WQDR curtailed three straight downward moves that led to a -1.2 (8.1 – 7.7 – 7.2 – 6.9, 6+). On the heels of November’s increase of nine-tenths (9.4 – 10.3, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFXC erodes by -1.5 but “Foxy Today’s R&B and Classic Soul” stays on top for the fourth straight month. November’s 10.3 is its strongest 6+-stat since January 2018’s 10.7. It has a 1.2-share (6+) advantage over urban contemporary cluster-mate WQOK, which regresses by eight-tenths to 7.6 (6+), but repeats in the runner-up position; “K-97.5” was up an overall six-tenths in October and November (7.8 – 8.0 – 8.4, 6+).
Indianapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Over the last four ratings periods, Emmis news/talk WIBC has
posted a -.7 (September); +1.0 (October); +.7 (November); and now a -.9 in December (7.2 – 6.3, third to fourth, 6+).
Its sports talk sibling, WFNI “The Fan – Indy’s Sports Center,” records its fifth straight up or flat trend for an overall +1.2 (1.6 – 1.6 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.8, #16 to #14, 6+) and enjoys its best 6+-stat (2.8) in exactly one year (3.1, December 2017). On the other hand, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WNDE “Indy’s Sports Station” regresses by four-tenths to 1.9 (#16 to #17, 6+), curtailing five straight sweeps without a
loss that netted eight-tenths (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+).
Adding three-tenths to November’s one-half share increase (4.6 – 4.9, 6+), Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting news/talk WFYI inches up from ninth to eighth. WFYI was off a combined three-tenths in September and October (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.1, 6+).
Indianapolis Music Formats – Following a collective seven-tenths decline in October and November (7.5 – 7.1 – 6.8, 6+), Emmis adult contemporary WYXB “B-105.7” bounces back with an increase more than three times the size of that loss (9.0, +2.2, fourth to second, 6+). Prior to October, “B-105.7” was an overall +1.4 in four consecutive up or flat moves (6.1 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 6.8 – 7.5, 6+). In December 2017, WYXB posted a 7.8 (6+). An improvement of nine-tenths to 7.7 (fourth to third, 6+) by iHeartMedia’s WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock” halts three (modest) downward moves in succession that resulted in a loss of six-tenths (7.4 – 7.1 – 6.9 – 6.8, 6+). Continuing a down/up pattern that started in June – in which time it is even – (4.3 – 3.2 – 4.1 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 4.3, 6+), Entercom hot AC WNTR carries on at #12; “107.9 The Mix” was up eight-tenths in December. Notwithstanding that it is off by seven-tenths (9.9 – 9.2, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WJJK “Classic Hits 104.5” sets the pace for the sixth month in a row. Its November decrease of one-tenth suspended five successive uptrends which yielded a +3.2 (6.8 – 7.3 – 7.9 – 8.6 – 9.7 – 10.0, 6+). In October, WJJK reached 10.0, the highest 6+-share in the station’s PPM-history. Having finished at #2 in October and November, co-owned WFMS “95.5 The Country Station” plummets -1.8 in December (8.0 – 6.2, 6+), segueing to #5 with its lowest 6+-stat since March (6.2, as well). On top in April 2018, May, and June, WFMS has been -.5 (February); +1.0 (April); +.5 (May); -.5 (July); -.7 (August); +.9 (October); and now -1.8 (December). Meanwhile, Emmis-owned WLHK “Country 97.1 Hank FM” has been -1.5 (September); +.6 (October); -.7 (November); and now -.4 in December (5.0 – 4.6, eighth to tenth, 6+). Down an overall four-tenths in an alternating June 2018 through December 2018 up/down sequence (1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 1.3, 6+), University of Indianapolis jazz/classical WICR “88.7 The Diamond” (down six-tenths in December) falls from #19 to #18. A collective -1.4 via six straight downtrends (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3, 6+) send Radio One CHR WNOW “100.9 Radio Now” from #15 to #16.
Milwaukee
Spoken-Word Formats – There have been some wild fluctuations this calendar year for
Good Karma Brands news/talk WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station,” including -.8 (January); +.9 (February); +1.9 (April); -.6 (May); +.5 (June); -.5 (August); +.6 (September); +2.5 (October); -1.0 (November); and now -2.6 in December (9.4 – 6.8, first to 
fifth, 6+). This (6.8) is the lowest 6+-showing for the flagship of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Milwaukee Brewers since March (6.0). A combined +1.3 in October and November, iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WISN “News/Talk 1130” forfeits approximately half that gain in December (6.9 – 6.3, -.6, fifth to sixth, 6+). Immediately before October, WISN was -2.1 in four straight decreases (7.7 – 6.9 – 6.7 – 6.2 – 5.6, 6+).
Despite dropping one-tenth (1.5 – 1.4, 6+), Entercom’s WSSP “Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan”
advances from #17 to #16. Its loss of four-tenths in November curtailed four consecutive increases that accounted for a collective +.7 (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.9, 6+). Roughly three-quarters of the way through the November sweep, Good Karma Brands shifted WKTI from country to sports talk. In its 
first full monthly report in its new format, “94.5 ESPN” erodes by -1.5 to .8 (#15 to #18, 6+). WKTI is now an overall -3.6 in seven straight sweeps without an increase (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 2.3 – .8, 6+). Co-owned/Jackson-licensed WAUK “ESPN Milwaukee,” which debuted in November with a .5 (#20, 6+), disappears from print in December. Meanwhile, after quintupling (+.4) its 6+-share in seven successive sweeps without a loss (.1 – .1 – .1 – .2 – .2 – .3 – .4 – .5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” surrenders three-tenths to .2 (#24, 6+).
Owing to three straight upticks (2.7 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 4.2, 6+), University of Wisconsin news/talk WUWM is a collective +1.5 and enters the top ten (#12 to #10). Prior to October, WUWM ranked #14 for three straight months and had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) for 17 consecutive sweeps. The June 2018 – December 2018 topline for Wisconsin Public Radio news/talk WHAD is .9 – .9 – .7 – .9 – .7 – .8 – .8 (#19 to #18, 6+).
Milwaukee Music Formats – Not only does WLDB post a whopping +2.6 (5.1 – 7.7, seventh to second, 6+), “B-93.3 The ‘80s to Today” is just one-tenth from the lead; the Milwaukee Radio Alliance adult contemporary outlet posted a 5.6 in December 2017. A December increase of +1.1 (4.8 – 5.9 eighth to seventh, 6+) by Entercom hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” completely obliterates its -1.1 in October and November (5.9 – 5.1 – 4.8, 6+). Having been an overall -1.3 in four negative moves in a row (4.1 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 2.8, 6+), Milwaukee Radio Alliance alternative WLUM “FM 102.1 Sounds Different” erases just over half that deficit with a +.7 to 3.5 (6+) and remains at #13. Progressing from #16 to #15, Saga Communications’ rhythmic CHR WNRG “Energy 106.9” posts its fourth straight gain for an overall +1.3 (.8 – 1.2 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+). Over and above adding six-tenths to November’s +.2 (7.0 – 7.2 – 7.8, 6+), co-owned WKLH “Hometown Rock 96.5” jumps from fourth to first. A station familiar with the top spot is WRIT “95.7 Big FM Milwaukee’s Greatest Hits.” The iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies facility spent 43 consecutive ratings periods at #1 but spirals by -1.0 in December (8.7 – 7.7) and is tied for second; WRIT was dislodged from the top spot in October. Off -1.1 in four successive decreases (5.8 – 5.5 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 4.7, 6+), Saga Communications’ WHQG “102.9 The Hog – Everything That Rocks” slips from sixth to eighth. After trending 4.2 – 4.0 – 4.2 (6+), its urban AC cluster-mate, WJMR “Jammin’ 98.3,” surrenders one-half share to 3.7 (#11 to #12, 6+). As a result of dropping two-tenths to 7.3 (third to fourth, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WMIL “FM 106.1 Milwaukee’s Best Country” interrupts three gains in succession that netted +2.2 (5.3 – 5.6 – 6.2 – 7.5, 6+). Ironically, the decrease comes immediately after WMIL lost its country competitor, WKTI, which is now sports talk (see above).
Nashville
Spoken-Word Formats – In 12 of the last 13 sweeps, Cumulus Media news/talk WWTN
“Super Talk 99.7” (3.8 – 3.5, -.3, #11 to #14, 6+) has been within 3.0 – 3.9 range 6+; the exception was October 2018 when it logged a 4.0.
Flat at #19, iHeartMedia news/talk WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” nearly doubles (+.6) its 6+-stat via three straight gains (7 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3, 6+).
Bouncing back from November’s loss of nine-tenths with a December gain of two-tenths (5.4 – 5.6, 6+), Cumulus Media sports talk WGFX “104.5 The Zone” advances from seventh to sixth. The Tennessee Titans’ flagship was a collective +3.3 in four consecutive up or flat moves (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.6 – 5.0 – 6.3, 6+), with October’s 6.3 its highest 6+-share since January 2018’s 6.5. By dropping one-tenth to 1.6 (#17 to #18, 6+), Cromwell Group-owned sports talk WPRT “102.5 The Game” suspends three consecutive improvements that yielded a collective +1.0 (.7 – .8 – 1.3 – 1.7, 6+). That streak immediately followed four straight decreases that accounted for a -1.9 (2.6 – 2.5 – .9 – .8 – .7, 6+).
After three down moves in a row in which it was a collective -1.5 (4.9 – 4.6 – 3.6 – 3.4, 6+), Nashville Public Radio news/talk/classical hybrid WPLN-FM “NPR News and Classical Music” is up four-tenths to 3.8 (#14 to #11, 6+). Its internet “stream” is +.7 since surfacing in September 2018 (.2 – .6 – .7 – .9, 6+) and reaches #20 in December.
Nashville Music Formats – Adding a +1.9 to November’s +.9 (8.1 – 9.0 – 10.9, 6+), Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA “Mix 92.9 – Your Life, Your Music” is on top for the 11th successive ratings period. Among its fluctuations in calendar year 2018 are: -6.7 (January); +1.0 (February); -.5 (May); +1.0 (June); +.9 (August); -.9 (September); -.7 (October); +.9 (November); and now +1.9 (December). In addition to zooming from fifth to second, iHeartMedia CHR WRVW “107.5 The River” is a combined +2.4 through five straight gains (4.4 – 4.8 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.4 – 6.8, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat (6.8) in over a year (7.2, October 2017). Wiping away November’s loss of one-half share with a December improvement twice that margin (2.6 – 3.6, +1.0, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WLVU jumps from #16 to #13. Prior to November, “Positive & Inspiring K-Love” was an overall +.8 through five consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+). The +.9 that iHeartMedia urban contemporary WUBT “The Beat” gained in October and November (6.0 – 6.5 – 6.9, 6+) all but disappears in December with a loss of eight-tenths to 6.1 (second to fourth, 6+). Owing to four straight decreases, iHeartMedia-owned WNRQ is a combined -1.4 (7.8 – 7.6 – 6.6 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+), yet “105.9 The Rock – Nashville’s Classic Rock” climbs from fourth to third. August’s 7.8 was the best 6+-stat for WNRQ, which was an overall +1.5 via four consecutive increases (6.3 – 6.4 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 7.8, 6+) since January (7.8, as well). The market’s three country FMs finish at eighth, ninth, and tenth as they log a collective loss of -2.1 from November. More specifically, on the heels of November’s improvement of eight-tenths and a -1.0 in September, Cumulus Media’s WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon” plummets by -1.5 (6.6 – 5.1, third to eighth, 6+). Stable at #9, iHeartMedia’s WSIX “The Big 98 – Nashville’s #1 for New Country,” which was +1.2 (4.3 – 5.1 – 5.5, August-September-October), is now an overall -.9 in November and December (5.5 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+). After posting three increases in a row for a +.7 (3.6 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.3, 6+), “Nash Icon” sibling WKDF “103.3 Nash FM” drops two-tenths to 4.1 (6+), but stays at #10.
Providence
Spoken-Word Formats – An overall +1.1 in four straight sweeps without a loss (3.7 – 4.0 –
4.4 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WPRO-AM “News Talk 630” advances from seventh to sixth. Its August increase halted three straight down or flat sweeps for a -1.0 (4.7 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7, 6+). Conversely, a four-tenths’ loss by iHeartMedia news/talk WHJJ “Providence’s News, Traffic, and Weather” (1.7 – 1.3, #12 to #14, 6+) 
curtails four consecutive up or flat moves that yielded six-tenths (1.1 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+). This directly follows an overall loss of nine-tenths through five straight decreases (2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.3 – 1.1, 6+). It is tied with Boston hybrid news-talk sibling WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030,” which is up nine-tenths in six straight Providence sweeps without a loss (.8 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 -1.1 – 1.3, #17 to #14, 6+). Continuing at #21, Cumulus Media-owned WPRV “AM 790 Talk & Business” has its 6+-share sliced in half since October (.6 – .5 – .3, 6+).
Following four successive up or flat trends that accounted for a net gain of +2.0 (3.4 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.8 – 5.4, 6+), Entercom sports talk WVEI returns 80% of that increase (3.8, -1.6, sixth to eighth, 6+).
By regaining the three-tenths it lost in November (2.3 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH progresses from tenth to ninth; WGBH was up one-half share in October. Leveling off at 2.0 (6+) after November’s loss of six-tenths, The Wheeler School’s news/talk WELH repeats at #10. WELH gained four-tenths in September and in October (1.8 – 2.2 – 2.6, 6+). In advance of adding four-tenths in September, WELH was off one-half share in six straight sweeps without an increase (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8, 6+). Immediately prior to the May sweep, these two public radio news/talk outlets (WELH and WGBH) finished back-to-back four straight times and were tied in May at #10.
Providence Music Formats – In addition to being #1 for the fifth month in a row, Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI “Lite Rock 105” dials up a +2.7 to 12.1, its highest 6+-stat since 12.3 in “Holiday” 2017. Over the last three ratings periods, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB has fluctuated by one-half share: “B-101” was +.5 (October); -.5 (November); and now +.5 in December (6.4 – 6.9, fifth to third, 6+). Representative WWBB moves earlier in calendar year 2018 include -.5 (January); +.9 (March); +.6 (April); +.9 (July); -.8 (August); and -.9 (September). After returning October’s one-half share increase in November, Hall Communications’ WCTK further erodes by -1.3 in December (8.7 – 8.2 – 6.9, 6+) and is tied for third with “B-101.” This (6.9) is the lowest 6+performance for “Cat Country 98.1” in approximately two years (6.6, “Holiday” 2016). A loss of eight-tenths (7.4 – 6.6, fourth to fifth, 6+) takes Cumulus Media CHR WPRO-FM “92 PRO FM Today’s Hit Music” below a seven-share (6.6, 6+) for the first time in more than three years (6.9, August 2015).
Norfolk – Good news continues for iHeartMedia rhythmic hot AC WMOV, which has ballooned its 6+ stat more than nine-fold (a whopping +5.7) in five positive spikes in a row (.7 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 6.4, 6+), zooming from eighth to fourth. At this time last year (December 2017), “Movin’ 107.7” logged a 4.4 (6+). Immediately prior to this particular run, however, “Movin’ 107.7” lost 86% of its 6+-
share (-4.3) through seven successive sweeps without an increase, (5.0 – 1.6 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – .7, 6+). Off a combined six-tenths via four consecutive modest decreases (6.3 – 6.2 – 5.9 – 5.8 – 5.7, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WWDE “101.3 2WD” roars back with a +1.5 to 7.2 (fifth to second, 6+). This (7.2) is its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.5. Down or flat for the fourth straight time for a -2.6 (15.5 – 13.7 – 13.7 – 13.1 – 12.9, 6+), its urban AC cluster-mate – WVKL “Smooth R&B from Yesterday & Today” – is nonetheless #1 for the 25th straight survey period and posts a 6+-share of 11.0 or higher for the 33rd time in the last 34 sweeps. December 2018’s 12.9, however, is its lowest 6+-reading since April’s 12.3. On the other hand, its 15.5 in August 2018 sets the record for highest 6+-performance by any Norfolk station in the PPM-era. A decline of -1.0 (6.5 – 5.5, second to sixth, 6+) sends Saga Communications’ WAFX “Classic Rock 106.9 The Fox” to its weakest 6+-stat (5.5) since 4.7 in “Holiday” 2017. In four consecutive down or flat reports, Entercom’s WNVZ “Z-104 Norfolk Rhythmic Music” is an overall -1.2 (5.3 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.1, sixth to seventh, 6+).
Jacksonville
Spoken-Word Formats – In the last six survey periods, Cox Media Group news/talk WOKV
“104.5 – Jacksonville’s News, Weather, and Traffic” is -.7 (July); +.5 (August); -.6 (September); +2.0 (October); +.6 (November) and now -.8 in December (11.2 – 10.4, first to second). November’s 11.2 is its best-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era. Prior to October, the last time WOKV finished first was in May when it scored a 9.3 (6+).
After being up or flat the past four ratings periods for a collective gain of one-half share (.3 – .5 – .5 – .5 – .8, 6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WFXJ “930 The Game – Jacksonville’s Sports Leader” is off one-tenth to .7 (#18 to #20, 6+).
Carrying on at #13, public news/talk WJCT picks up one-tenth to 2.3 (6+), thus ending three consecutive downward moves that led to -1.2 (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.2, 6+).
Jacksonville Music Formats – By posting a December +2.8 to 10.7 (6+), Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ completely vaporizes its collective -2.7 via three straight setbacks (10.6 – 9.8 – 8.6 – 7.9, 6+). Moreover, “96.1 Jacksonville’s Official Work Station” marches from third to first with its strongest 6+-mark (10.7) since “Holiday” 2017’s 11.9. Finishing on top in June, July, August, and September, WEJZ was 9.0 in December 2017. As a result of four straight improvements (3.4 – 4.2 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+), Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WEZI was an overall +1.9; however, in December, “Easy 102.9” regresses by four-tenths to 4.9 (seventh to eighth, 6+). That particular positive streak immediately followed three straight down or flat trends that produced a collective -1.2 (4.6 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.4, 6+). Urban AC sibling WOKV-HD2 improves by one-half share (1.7 – 2.2, #15 to #14, 6+). Having registered a 3.6 (6+) in three of the last five survey periods (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits WWJK sputters by eight-tenths to 2.8 (6+) as “107.3 The River – We Play Anything” departs the top ten (#10 to #11). Following five straight positive spikes that netted a +1.6 (5.4 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.4 – 7.0, 6+), Cox Media Group CHR WAPE “95.1 Jacksonville’s #1 Hit Music Station” forfeits one-half share to 6.5 (fourth to fifth, 6+); November’s 7.0 is its strongest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2016’s 7.4. Recording a gain of four-tenths in back-to-back reports (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+), Renda Broadcasting-owned WGNE “Gator Country 99.9” carries on at #9. November’s +.4 pulled the plug on six successive downward moves that resulted in an overall -2.2 (5.9 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 3.7, 6+). A cumulative -1.1 in three successive dips (9.3 – 9.2 – 8.5 – 8.2, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL “96.9 The Eagle,” which had been in the runner-up slot the past three months, segues to third.
West Palm Beach
Spoken-Word Formats – By adding three-tenths to November’s increase of six-tenths (2.0 –
2.6 – 2.9, 6+), Alpha Media’s WFTL “News Talk 850” enters the top ten (#11 to #9). A loss of four-tenths in October halted at four its consecutive string of upticks that netted seven-tenths (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.4, 6+). Meanwhile, after gaining one-half share in October, iHeartMedia news/talk WJNO “1290 The Palm Beaches’ News & Talk” has lost a collective three-tenths in November and December (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.1, flat at #12, 6+). WJNO was a combined -1.0 in August and September (2.9 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+). Co-owned news/talk WZZR “Real Radio 94.3 – Real Talk for the Palm Beaches,” which recorded a 1.8 (6+) the past three reports, slips three-tenths to 1.5 (#14 to #15); WZZR gained one-half share in August. Miami news/talk sibling WIOD picks up one-tenth (.9 – 1.0, 6+) and returns to West Palm Beach’s top twenty (#22 to #18, 6+).
Bouncing back from November’s six-tenths’ loss with a December increase of one-half share (3.3 – 3.8, 6+), WLRN jumps from eighth to sixth. Immediately prior to the November sweep, the Dade County School Board news/talk station logged three straight improvements resulting in a collective +1.0 (2.9 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.9, 6+).
West Palm Beach Music Formats – On the heels of November’s four-tenths’ improvement, Alpha Media’s WEAT dials up a +1.9 (4.6 – 5.0 – 6.9, 6+) as “Sunny 107.9” zooms from fourth to second. Off six-tenths in October, “Sunny” has its best 6+-showing (6.9) since 9.1 in “Holiday” 2017. After plummeting by -1.8 in November, hot AC cluster-mate WRMF “97.9 Variety from the 90s and Now” makes up more than half that loss with a +1.0 (8.9 – 9.9, 6+) and is #1 for the 12th sweep in succession. WRMF was an overall +1.7 in five consecutive up or flat reports (9.0 – 9.3 – 9.3 – 9.4 – 10.0 – 10.7, 6+), with October’s 10.7 its highest 6+-share since November 2017 (11.2). Following back-to-back gains that netted one-half share (.8 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+), iHeartMedia Miami adult contemporary WMIA “93.9 Variety From the ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today” surrenders six-tenths to .7 (6+) and exits the top twenty (#17 to #22, 6+). Down one-half share each are its classic rock sibling WKGR “Gater 98.7,” which is a collective -1.2 in three consecutive negative trends (5.0 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.8, flat at #6, 6+) and Alpha Media’s WIRK “103.1 South Florida Country” (3.6 – 3.1, seventh to eighth, 6+). Via five straight upticks, iHeartMedia Spanish contemporary WRLX was a combined +1.3 (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+), but “Mia 92.1” is off two-tenths and departs the top ten (2.6, #10 to #11, 6+).
Greensboro
Spoken-Word Formats – Although it repeats at #9, iHeartMedia news/talk WPTI “94.5 Your
News, Talk, & Sports Station” forfeits one-half share of October and November’s collective +.7 (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.2 – 3.7, 6+); WPTI was down eight-tenths in September.
A gain of two-tenths (.3 – .5, steady at #16, 6+) takes Curtis Media Group sports talk WSJS “Triad Sports” to its best 6+-showing since 
May (.5, as well).
This is the seventh consecutive time that Wake Forest University news/talk WFDD “88.5 Public Radio for the Piedmont” finishes at #13 (1.9 – 2.1, +.2, 6+). After four straight up or flat trends that netted four-tenths (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.4, 6+), WFDD was down one-half share in November. Stable at #15, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill news/talk WUNC has a May 2018 through December 2018 (6+) topline of: 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – .8 – .6.
Greensboro Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG up or flat for the fourth straight month for a whopping (collective) +7.1 more than doubling its 6+-share since August (6.8 – 7.9 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 13.9, 6+), “99.5 – The Triad’s Best Variety” leaps from third to first. This (13.9) is its highest 6+-showing since 16.1 in “Holiday” 2017 and easily beats its (6+) December 2017 reading of 11.8. Dislodged from the top spot after 11 straight sweeps there is WQMG “97.1 QMG The Best R&B and Old School” (11.4 – 10.8, -.6, first to second, 6+), which nonetheless is in double-digits (6+) for the 25th straight time. The Entercom urban AC was +1.0 in November. Its gain of two-tenths in October applied the brakes to five successive decreases that resulted in a net loss of -2.0 (12.2 – 12.0 – 11.2 – 10.9 – 10.5 – 10.2, 6+). A combined -.8 in October and September, iHeartMedia-owned WTQR gained three-tenths in November, but “Q-104.1 – #1 for New Country” craters by -1.6 in December (6.7 – 5.1, fifth to eighth, 6+). Meanwhile, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WPAW “93.1 The Wolf” was up one-half share in October; faltered by four-tenths in November; and is down three-tenths in December (5.5 – 5.2, flat at #7, 6+) – but – overtakes WTQR. Spiraling by -1.1 (4.0 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia rocker WVBZ “105.7 Man Up!” has its lowest 6+-stat since February 2018 (2.9, as well) and departs the top ten (#10 to #12). While it remains at #4, Entercom rhythmic CHR WJMH “102 JAMZ” is an overall -2.1 in six straight sweeps without an increase, (8.2 – 7.4 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 6.9 – 6.9 – 6.1, 6+). In the runner-up slot the past 11 sweeps, adult hits cluster-mate WSMW “98.7 Simon Says We Play Everything” sputters by seven-tenths (9.3 – 8.6, 6+) and segues to third. When it picked up two-tenths in November, “Simon” suspended three straight declines that accounted for a combined loss of nine-tenths (10.0 – 9.7 – 9.6 – 9.1, 6+). Over the course of the last four sweeps, iHeartMedia CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss FM All the Hits” is +.5 (September, 2.9 – 3.4, 6+); -.6 (October, 3.4 – 2.8, 6+); +.9 (November, 2.8 – 3.7, 6+); and now -.5 (December, 3.7 – 3.2, flat at #11, 6+). Prior to November, “Kiss” occupied the #12 position for five consecutive sweeps.
Memphis
Spoken-Word Formats – In a September-October-November-December down/up pattern in which time it has lost six-tenths (3.4 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 2.8, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WREC “600 AM – Memphis’ News, Traffic, & Weather” drifts from the top ten (#10 to #13).
In addition to logging five straight gains for an overall +1.4 (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom sports talk WMFS enters the top ten (#11 to #10). Immediately prior to this streak, “ESPN Sports Radio” was off six-tenths in July.
Memphis Music Formats – Not only is iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS up one full-share (10.5 – 11.5, 6+), “V-101” progresses from third to first and is in double-digits (6+) for the eighth successive sweep. This (11.5) is the best 6+-stat for “V-101” since June 2016’s 11.6. In a rare case of an adult contemporary outlet exiting the #1 slot in December 2018, Entercom’s WRVR “104.5 The River” freefalls by -1.6 (10.9 – 9.3, first to second, 6+). “The River” was off one-tenth in November, following October’s +2.4 to 11.0, its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2017’s 12.9. At the same time, its format rival – Cumulus Media’s WKIM “98.9 The Bridge” – is an overall +2.1 in six consecutive reports without a loss (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 3.5, #14 to #11, 6+). The rollercoaster ride continues for WKIM sibling WGKX “Kix 106 Today’s Best Country,” which was +1.8 in three straight increases; -.2 in September; -.5 in October; -.5 (again) in November; and is now +.7 in December (4.0 – 4.7, ninth to eighth, 6+). Up six-tenths each are iHeartMedia gospel WHAL “95.7 Halleluiah – Memphis’ Inspiration Station” (unchanged at #5, 6+) and co-owned CHR KWNW “101.9 Kiss FM” (1.1 – 1.7, steady at #15, 6+). WHAL is an overall +1.6 in four straight positive spikes (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+). December 2018’s 6.2 is the highest 6+-reading for WHAL since April’s 7.1. This streak directly follows six successive down monthlies in a row for a collective -2.7 (7.3 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.1 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.6, 6+). Immediately after Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO “Soul Classics and Today’s R&B” posted a November +1.9, it surrenders all of it and another one-tenth more in December (10.7 – 8.7, -2.0, second to third, 6+). Nevertheless, November’s 10.7 is the highest 6+-share for WRBO in its PPM-history. Prior to adding two-tenths in October, WRBO was a combined -1.4 in four successive sweeps without an increase (10.0 – 9.3 – 8.8 – 8.8 – 8.6, 6+).
Hartford
Spoken-Word Formats – A loss of nine-tenths (6.8 – 5.9, 6+) sends Entercom news/talk
WTIC-AM from fifth to sixth; “News Talk 1080” was up eight-tenths in October. Going into the October sweep, WTIC-AM notched a 6.2 (6+) in each of the previous three sweeps. Thus far this calendar year, Red Wolf Broadcasting news/talk WDRC-AM “AM 1360 The Talk of Connecticut” (#14 to #15) has an ultra-consistent (6+) topline: 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.0.
Ever since reappearing in print in July 2018, iHeartMedia sports talk WUCS “97.9 ESPN Hartford” is trending 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 2.0 – 1.6 – 1.4 (#12 to #13, 6+).
Although it is a combined +1.4 in four upticks in succession (3.5 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.6 – 4.9, 6+), Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network news/talk WNPR “Connecticut’s Public Media Source for News & Ideas” backslides from eighth to ninth. Directly in advance of this streak, WNPR was -2.4 after seven straight down or flat trends (5.9 – 5.9 – 5.5 – 4.2 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+). Meanwhile, University of Massachusetts-owned WFCR “New England Public Radio,” which had a collective loss of one-half share through three negative moves in succession (1.6 – 1.5 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+), picks up two-tenths to 1.3 (steady at #14, 6+). An August gain of three-tenths halted five successive down or flat trends that led to a -1.2 (2.5 – 1.8 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3, 6+).
Hartford Music Formats – Down eight-tenths in November (11.4 – 10.6, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WRCH roars back with a +1.8 to 12.4 (6+) and is on top for the 29th consecutive ratings period. In addition, “Lite 100.5” is in double-digits (6+) for the 26th time in the last 28 sweeps with its best 6+-performance since June (12.4, as well). In December 2017, WRCH posted a 13.0 (6+). When co-owned WZMX “Hot 93.7” gained four-tenths in November, it ended five straight decreases that accounted for a -1.9 (8.3 – 8.2 – 7.8 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). The rhythmic CHR adds another seven-tenths in December (6.8 – 7.5, sixth to third, 6+). As a result of four straight sweeps without a loss, iHeartMedia’s WWYZ “Country 92.5” nets a +1.4 (6.4 – 7.0 – 7.2 – 7.8 – 7.8, repeating at #2, 6+); 7.8 in November and December is its highest 6+-stat since May (7.8, as well). An overall -1.3 owing to three straight declines (5.7 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.4, 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting’s WDRC-FM “102.9 The Whale – Hartford’s Classic Rock” answers with a +.8 to 5.2 (ninth to eighth, 6+). While unchanged at #7, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WHCN “105.9 The River” falters by seven-tenths (6.0 – 5.3, 6+). Following a November increase of seven-tenths (2.4 – 3.1 6+), Red Wolf Broadcasting’s Spanish tropical WMRQ-HD2 surrenders one-half share (2.6, flat at #11, 6+).
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
Report: Savage Program Changes the Result of ‘Corporate Censorship.’ In an analysis/opinion piece in The Washington Times, writer Cheryl K. Chumley quotes both
Michael Savage and Daniel Horowitz (identified as Savage’s lawyer) in a piece that asserts the coming changes in Savage’s program from three live hours to one live hour and a one-hour podcast and the resulting, anticipated loss of affiliate stations WABC, New York; WLS-AM, Chicago; WMAL-AM/FM, Washington; and KABC, Los Angeles are not business decisions but political ones. Horowitz is quoted saying, “Michael’s voice, unlike [his conservative competitors] has always been very independent. Savage is completely a wild card, right? And that’s what they’re trying to kill. It’s all about corporate control. Taking him off the air is not a business decision.” Horowitz adds, “Networks are actually losing millions of dollars in order to keep Michael’s voice off these stations.” Savage himself seems piqued the aforementioned stations won’t delay-broadcast his shows at night. “The only reason I can see is because of politics. It makes no sense. I have a loyal, large audience. Why not at least do reruns at night?” Read the Times piece here.
Dave Glover Re-Ups with KFTK-FM, St. Louis. St. Louis radio talk show host Dave Glover signs a multi-year contract extension with Entercom’s news/talk KFTK-FM to continue
hosting his afternoon drive program on the station. Entercom St. Louis SVP and market manager Becky Domyan says, “‘The Dave Glover Show’ has been a cornerstone of the afternoon drive at ‘FM NewsTalk 97.1’ from the very beginning and I am thrilled that Dave will be a part of the team for the foreseeable future. I have been honored to work with Dave for the last decade and look forward to continuing to work with him in the years to come. Dave leads the way on so many levels and strives for excellence in everything he does on a daily basis.” Glover has been with KFTK-FM since 2000. The station says Glover’s program finished #1 in 2017 with persons aged 25-54, according to Nielsen PPM ratings.
iHeartMedia Settles Lawsuits Removing Two Roadblocks. Two lawsuits that were partly responsible for postponing iHeartMedia’s Confirmation Hearing in its Chapter 11
reorganization have been settled. Creditors GAMCO and Norfolk County Retirement System objected to iHeartMedia’s use of cash sweeps from Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings and filed suit. An early December agreement between GAMCO and iHM called for iHeart to provide a revolving line of credit of $170 million to CCOH. This latest settlement calls for the revolving line of credit to be hiked to $200 million after iHeartMedia and CCOH become separate companies – part of the Fifth Amended Plan. iHeart is also indemnifying CCOH for up to 50% of certain tax liabilities.
TALKERS News Notes. Beginning January 2, Las Vegas talk radio pro Heidi Harris hosts a three-hour morning show on Kemp Communications’ news/talk KMZQ-AM, airing from 6:00
am to 9:00 am. Currently, Harris is hosting the 8:00 am to 10:00 am slot on the station. The station also swaps out Salem Radio Network’s Dennis Prager and Michael Medved in middays for SRN’s Mike Gallagher and Sebastian Gorka. Harris tells TALKERS magazine she continues to produce her podcast in addition to hosting her radio show. Harris has served with Entercom’s KXNT-AM and Beasley’s KDWN in the Las Vegas market…..Sales pro Ed Krampf joins Sun & Fun Media as senior account executive for its affiliate sales unit. Sun & Fun co-founder Rob Koblasz says, “Adding Ed to our team continues our mission of having the best and brightest minds in the industry serving our affiliates.”…..Premiere Networks announces the 
continuation of a long-standing “Coast to Coast AM” tradition of listeners being treated to live, holiday-themed programming, including special guest appearances, open lines, music and surprises on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Program host George Noory says, “When I began this journey 17 years ago, I made a promise to our faithful listeners that there will be live programs on the holidays – a time of joy, but also a time of loneliness for some. I look forward to sharing this special time of year with my ‘Coast to Coast AM’ family.”…..Tomorrow, WABC, New York personality Sid Rosenberg, along with WNYW-TV FOX
5 “Good Day New York” host Ines Rosales, will visit Maimonides Children’s Hospital in Brooklyn. The two will deliver presents and holiday surprises from the hospital’s wish list for every child in the unit to make their holidays a little brighter. Rosenberg says, “As the proud and loving dad of two, I can’t think of a better way to spend my holiday season than with the children at Maimonides Medical Center. Bringing laughs to my listening audience is fun but putting a smile on these kids’ faces will be the absolute best.”
Trump-Russia Investigation/Russian Election Meddling, Border Wall-Government Shutdown Threat, Dow Dips 500+/Recession Worries, Obamacare Status, Moonves Gets Nothing from CBS, Criminal Justice Reform Bill, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/17). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between the Trump campaign and Russian agents and the related intelligence regarding Russian election interference; the battle in Washington over funding for the Mexican border wall that could shut down the federal government; the continuing stock selloff and concerns about a recession; the status of Obamacare in the aftermath of a federal judge’s ruling it unconstitutional; CBS reveals ousted chief Les Moonves will get no severance; the criminal justice reform bill that would reduce sentences for non-violent offenders; and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Remembering Dave Robbins. Social media was abuzz Monday night as news spread about the sudden passing of highly respected programmer and general manager Dave Robbins. To see glowing tributes for someone who has died isn’t unusual, but the well-earned praise for Robbins was particularly voluminous and the word “mentor” was frequently mentioned. Held in high esteem for his days programming Columbus CHR WNCI, Robbins was among the most successful PDs who transitioned to the GM’s chair. What follows is a very brief sample from the many weighing in on him. Noted consultant/programmer John Sebastian: “He was my GM in Chicago at WJMK. He was a great boss and a very good man.” Executive vice
president/programming operations at iHeartMedia Jon Zellner: “I have two mentors in this business and Dave Robbins is one of them. He literally taught me everything I know through the many years I had the opportunity to work with him at Nationwide and CBS Radio – I am forever grateful. No one was more creative, inspiring or motivating – a true strategist in every sense of the word. Dave possessed every trait of a natural leader, but he also was one of the most nurturing human beings I ever met. It truly brought him joy to see people on his team succeed.” Breakthrough Management partner John Parikhal: “This is terrible news. I was a huge fan of Dave’s and we had some serious fun working together. I’m so sorry to hear this.” WTUZ, New Philadelphia (Ohio) director/operations & programming Steve Kelly: “This is the most difficult post I have ever had to write, but I know our radio family and Dave’s friends will want to know that my dear friend, Dave Robbins, passed away today. Godspeed my friend.” Longtime Chicago programmer/consultant Buddy Scott: “I’m stunned – today we lost one of the greatest guys in radio and in life, Dave Robbins. We worked together twice and were corporate mates once. I loved Dave – he was my friend. [This is] so sudden and so sad.” Zapoleon Media Strategies president Guy Zapoleon: “We lost someone very special today, a broadcast industry legend; mentor to so many in our industry; and a great human being who always had time for anyone who would reach out in need. [This is a] heartbreaking loss for all who were blessed to know Dave Robbins. I was blessed to have worked with and partnered with Dave at Nationwide Communications. I always called him ‘the general’ because he had an amazing strategic mind that he applied to radio and was the greatest strategic mind I’ve met in our business, truly a leader of men. Most importantly, Dave was a wonderful nurturing man who mentored so many people in our business and taught them the secrets of success in radio and in life. Dave was simply a one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-lifetime human being.” Executive vice president/programming at iHeartMedia Tony Coles: “This afternoon brought the stunning loss of my friend and mentor, Dave Robbins. Dave was the person responsible for getting me into programming. All of these years later, I have never made a major career decision without consulting Dave – I am so thankful to have known him.” Cumulus Media Holdings vice president/programming operations John Dimick: “I am devastated at the news. [Dave] gave me my first shot and truly taught everyone how to be their best self. Programming WNCI with [him] as the GM is a bright spot in my life. The universe is just a little out of balance tonight.” Also “heartbroken” to hear the news of Robbins’ passing was Saga Communications Asheville (North Carolina) operations manager Neal Sharpe: “He was one of the most incredible people I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was a mentor, a friend, and the greatest radio leader I’ve ever known.” WLNK, Charlotte on-air talent Ramona Holloway remarks that Robbins had, “one of the most unforgettable voices in the business.” Executive vice president of global music marketing & strategy for iHeartMedia Alissa Pollack: “Wow – I’m devastated – I just spoke with him. He was one of my all-time favorites. I’m so sorry to hear this about Dave ‘Rock & Roll’ Robbins.” Three comments from record company executives included this from Alchemy Entertainment owner Bill Pfordresher: “Dave was an amazing bright light in my life. Yes, he was a great radio executive, but also an amazing friend. You always felt special in his presence and he was able to do that with everyone he met. He had true soul and I am deeply saddened at his passing. He is in a good place and will be remembered and loved always.” What’s In-Store Music partner Bob Catania: “I will never forget my first meeting with Dave. He handed me a hand grip, stuck a quarter in it, and told me if I could hold it for five minutes without dropping the quarter, he’d give me an add. Of course, I couldn’t – he had tested it with many a promo person prior. That was the beginning of a beautiful friendship [with a] true gentleman and a brilliant programmer. This news breaks my heart.” Hitpredictor owner Rick Bisceglia: “Dave was tough – almost impossible – but highly intelligent and fair at the end. He was compassionate and made me better.” From January 2006 to the time of his death, Robbins was owner and chief executive officer of Windermere, Florida-based Getaway Vacation Homes, where he owned/managed 50 vacation homes and condos along Florida’s beaches and at Walt Disney World. Prior to that, his lengthy radio resume included a five-year stint (2010 – 2015) as senior vice president/market manager for CBS Radio Orlando’s WOMX, WJHM, WOCL and eight years as vice president and general manager for four of that company’s Chicago stations – WUSN, WCFS, WBBM-FM, and WJMK. Prior to that (1998 – 2003), Robbins was VP/GM for Columbus facilities WHOK, WLVQ, and WAZU; as well as vice president and general manager of Nationwide Columbus’ WNCI, WCOL, and WFYI. He spent seven years as Nationwide’s vice president of programming (1988 – 1995) and, from 1982 – 1988, programmed KHTR, St. Louis. Just 59 years old, Robbins was reported to have suffered a massive heart attack. He’s pictured here (center) with his wife Patti (left) and Radio’s Best Friend Art Vuolo (right).
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Syracuse morning duo Ted Long and Amy Robbins have signed a multi-year contract extension with Cumulus Media to continue hosting the “Ted & Amy in the Morning” show on CHR WNTQ “93Q,” something they’ve been doing for 30 years. Long says, “To be able to do what I love for so long, with the same people whom I admire so much, and at a company that not only cares for the audience they serve, as well as their employees, really makes it a no-brainer when it came to re-signing our contract. Amy and I both feel very privileged to hold the positions we have had for so long here in Central New York. I am excited to continue to inform and entertain our great audience of listeners on 93Q.” Robbins adds, “I truthfully find it hard to believe that I have spent more than half my life on the airwaves of ‘93Q.’ We are beyond grateful to our amazing listeners who continue to keep us as a part of their daily lives and to Cumulus Media who continues to recognize how important local talent is to each and every market they serve.”…..Alpha Media names Frank Wright content director for adult contemporary WXLC, Waukegan, Illinois. Wright – midday host on the station – takes over for Haynes Johns, who exited the position in October of this year.
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Sports Talker Kirk Minihane Headed to Barstool Sports? Based on recent cryptic Tweets combined with last week’s post by WEEI, Boston morning personality Kirk
Minihane, he may be joining Barstool Sports – which has been producing sports talk shows on SiriusXM since last February – instead of returning to the Entercom sports talker. Minihane took a leave of absence in early September to seek treatment for depression and suicidal thoughts. Last 
week, he Tweeted that he’s been ready to return to the “Kirk & Callahan” morning show but has been kept away by WEEI management. But, yesterday’s Tweet from Barstool Sports president David Portnoy hints at changes. “BREAKING: Barstool Radio shakeup is coming in 2 weeks, McAfee’s slot will be filled and there will be new shows added per @stoolpresidente.” Minihane responds, “Really?” It’s unclear what the issue is between WEEI and Minihane but Portnoy has publicly offered Minihane a presence on Barstool Sports.
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Prosecution Lays Out Case Against Craig Carton. On Monday, the federal government began presenting its case to the jury against former WFAN, New York morning drive co-host Craig Carton as his trial on multiple fraud charges began. The
New York Post reports that the prosecution is saying that Carton used his popularity as a media celebrity to convince investors to give him millions of dollars to operate a secondary market concert ticket business but that the money actually went to personal expenses such as landscaping, repaying casino debts, and to reimburse previous investors. Carton’s lawyer told the jury that Carton was the victim of former partner Joseph Meli, who is currently serving a six-and-a-half-year sentence for fraud in a ticket-selling scheme the prosecution alleges overlapped with Carton’s. The defense also blames film financier David Molner, who is named in a civil suit of being part of Meli’s ticket re-sale operation. However, one of the first pieces of evidence introduced was an allegedly doctored email from Carton to hedge fund Brigade Capital (which lent him $4.6 million) that the feds say shows Carton was aware of the nature of his business.
Ex-Congressman Jolly Debuts Midday Show on ‘News/Talk Florida.’ Former U.S. Rep. David Jolly is the newest talk show host on Genesis Communications’ Florida news/talk duo “News/talk Florida” WWBA, Tampa Bay and WIXC, Titusville. Jolly 
represented Florida’s 13th District from 2014 through 2017 before losing his re-election to former governor Charlie Crist. He’s been a critic of President Trump and an “advocate for common-sense bipartisanship.” His show, “David Jolly: Unbiased and Unplugged,” airs from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm daily and replaces the Erik Kuselias program. Jolly comments, “I’m excited to join the Genesis lineup. Florida, especially the I-4 corridor, is an increasingly important political landscape, and it’ll be great to reach it through the Genesis network.”
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk radio host Phil Valentine has released a video tribute to America’s servicemen and servicewomen to mark Veterans Day on November 11. The WWTN, Nashville-based Westwood One personality
explains, “I was invited to Texas for a market visit for one of our affiliates. On the last day, I was to make a speech to a group of veterans on Veterans Day [last year]. I sat in my hotel room the night before wondering what in the world I could say to so many who had given so much for this country having never served myself. As I began to jot thoughts down on paper, a poem emerged.” You can see Valentine’s production titled, “I Never Served,” here…..Jackson, Tennessee radio personality Bill Way is returning to the air 
on the market after “retiring” a year ago. Beginning tomorrow (11/1), Way begins hosting a daily, one-hour program on Grace Broadcasting’s WTJS-FM at 8:30 am. Way spent almost 25 years as a personality on The Wireless Group’s crosstown talk outlet WNWS-FM. Way comments, “I called it a retirement when I left, but I always knew I couldn’t retire. My mind works at a high rate of speed and when I see issues happening, I have commentary that is different from conventional opinions.” The program will be re-broadcast at 3:00 pm each day…..Comics Jim Norton (left) and Sam Roberts
(right) have re-upped with SiriusXM to continue hosting the “Jim and Sam” show on the Faction Talk channel for another three years. The program airs from 7:00 am to 10:00 am ET with an extra hour from 10:00 am to 11:00 am that will feature bonus content consisting of special interviews, replays, and other content unique to the show. It will also replay from 11:00 pm to 2:00 am during the week…..ESPN Films’ 30 for 30 Podcasts returns for a fourth season with five all-new audio documentaries. The first three episodes are: “Juiced” about Jose Canseco’s best-selling memoir, “All In: Sparking the Poker Boom” focusing on the rise of poker and a deep dive into The 2003 WSOP, and “Six Who Sat” about female endurance athletes who staged a sit-down strike for 10 minutes at the 1972 New York City Marathon to challenge unequal treatment of women in their sport.
Pittsburgh Synagogue Slayings, Midterm Elections/Trump Campaigns, Migrant Caravan/Birthright Citizenship Issue, Dow Rallies, Mail ‘Bombs’ Case, Indonesian Jet Crash, Apple Unveils New Products, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/30). The aftermath of the deadly attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue that took the lives of 11; the November 6 midterm elections and President Trump’s campaigning; the caravan of Honduran migrants and President Trump’s claim he can eliminate birthright citizenship with an executive signing; the Dow gains 400 points after suffering losses last week; the case of mail “bomber” Cesar Sayoc; the crash of Lion Air’s brand-new Boeing 737 in Indonesia; Apple unveils new computer and iPad products; and NFL Action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Richard Neer Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. As the just-concluded 2018 World Series indicated, so many things about sports are changing – the way the games are played, the way we root for our favorite teams and players, the way we bet on them, and the way we cover them in the media. Thirty-year WFAN, New York veteran sports talk show host Richard Neer is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Harrison and Neer
have been friends and colleagues going all the way back to their days together in the formative years of the album rock format at WLIR, Long Island and WNEW-FM, New York. Neer wrote the milestone book about that era titled FM: The Rise and Fall of Rock Radio (Villard 2001). In this podcast, these prolific conversationalists take a thoughtful, deep dive into the X’s and O’s of the changing culture of sports in our rapidly accelerating society. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and on every page of Talkers.com.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. As reported by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, programmer and air personality Haynes Johns exits Alpha Media’s hot AC WXLC, Waukegan, Illinois where he’s been since 2005. Johns tells Feder that the parting was amicable – “just a difference in programming philosophies” – and that he would like to continue working in the Chicago market…..Morning personality Broadway, a.k.a. Bill Bert, exits Entercom’s country WDSY-FM, Pittsburgh “Y108” after a year on the job. He came to WDSY from his previous gig at iHeartMedia’s country WWYZ, Hartford…..Long Island oldies outlet WLNG, Sag Harbor is trading hands. Main Street Broadcasting is selling the station to Bark Out Loud Dogs Media for $3.9 million.
October 2018 PPM Data – Round Two. October 2018 ratings information has been released for Washington (D.C.), Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s October 2018 survey period covered September 13 – October 10. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all 12 of these PPM-markets.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
Washington, DC
Spoken-Word Formats – Without a loss for the fourth month in succession, Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL is +1.5 in that timeframe (3.5 – 3.7 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+) and continues at #6. October’s 5.0 is its best 6+-stat since March (5.0, as well), which is
when WMAL reached the five-share level (6+) for the first time in the PPM-era. Immediately prior to July, WMAL was a combined -1.5 via three consecutive downward moves (5.0 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.5, 6+). After completely erasing July’s -.5 with an August +.5 (3.7 – 
3.2 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” repeats September’s 3.6 (6+), but departs the top ten (#10 to #11). July’s decrease ended three gains in a row by the Washington Nationals’ flagship that netted a +1.3 (2.4 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.7, 6+). Meanwhile, Radio One’s similarly-formatted WTEM “980 The Team” exits the top twenty (#20 to #22). “The Team” had a lengthy hiatus from Nielsen Audio; reappeared in June with a 1.0
(6+); immediately disappeared again in July (0.0); returned in August with a .9 (6+); repeated that .9 (6+) in September; and dips to .7 (6+) in October. Within 9.3 – 9.9 range for the seventh successive month (9.6 – 9.7 – 9.5 – 9.3 – 9.4 – 9.4 – 9.9, 6+), Hubbard all-news WTOP is #1 for the tenth straight ratings period. Not only does American University-owned news/talk WAMU note its third straight increase for an overall +.7 (7.6 – 8.0 – 8.2 – 8.3, 6+), “The Mind Is Our Medium” is in the runner-up slot for the ninth time this calendar year. The only exception was in July, when WAMU finished third. By gaining four-tenths in August, WAMU curtailed three straight flat or downward trends that resulted in a collective loss of nine-tenths (8.5 – 8.3 – 8.3 – 7.6, 6+). Flat at .4 (6+), Entercom business news WDCH nonetheless moves from #24 to #23. An August gain of two-tenths to .5 (6+) ended three straight months without an increase (5 – .4 – .3 – .3, 6+).
Washington, DC Music Formats – On the heels of September’s improvement of seven-tenths, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH “97.1 Washington’s Variety of the ‘80s ‘90s and Today” doubles it in October with a +1.4 to 5.8, its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 9.7. Prior to September, WASH had been down or flat the previous three sweeps for an overall loss of -1.1 (4.8 – 4.8 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+). An increase of six-tenths (3.5 – 4.1, 6+) takes co-owned CHR WIHT to its highest 6+-stat since January (4.1, as well). Moreover, “Hot 99.5 – DC’s #1 Hit Music Station” enters the top ten (#12 to #10). Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications’ WETA posts its fourth positive spike in succession for a collective +1.4 (2.2 – 2.3 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 3.6, #12 to #11, 6+). Prior to September, “Classical 90.9” had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) the past 22 ratings periods. A loss of one-tenth to 2.9 (flat at #15, 6+) by iHeartMedia’s WMZQ “98.7 Today’s Best Country” pulls the plug on three successive up or flat reports that netted four-tenths (2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.0, 6+). Within 2.4 – 2.9 territory (6+) for the 11th consecutive sweep (2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+), alternative sibling WWDC “DC-101” continues at #16. Following five consecutive decreases that accounted for an overall -.9 (4.1 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.3 – 3.2, 6+), Entercom rhythmic CHR WPGC-FM picks up one-tenth to 3.3 (flat at #14, 6+). There’s generally good news for one (if not both) of the market’s two urban ACs, but such is not the case in October 2018, as the format takes a combined -1.9 hit. That erosion is virtually equally divided between Radio One-owned WMMJ “Majic” (7.3 – 6.4, -.9, 6+) and Howard University’s WHUR (6.8 – 5.8, -1.0, 6+). Even so, the two rivals repeat at third and fourth, respectively, with WHUR at #4 for the seventh sweep in succession. Following six straight up or flat reports for a collective +2.3 (5.6 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 6.6 – 7.1 – 7.9, 6+), WMMJ faltered by nine-tenths in August. July 2018’s 7.9 was the highest 6+-stat in its PPM history, breaking the “old” record set the previous month (June). In April, “Majic” pulled ahead of WHUR for the first time since November 2015, which was when the two rivals were tied at 4.7 (6+). After four straight reports without an increase for an overall -1.4 (7.1 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), WHUR was a combined +1.1 in June and July (5.7 – 6.3 – 6.8), with July’s 6.8 its best 6+-showing since January’s 7.1.
Boston
Spoken-Word Formats – Duplicating September’s +.3 (2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WRKO continues at #13. This (3.0) is WRKO’s best 6+-stat since March (3.0, as well). When “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” notched a gain of
two-tenths in July, it ended three downward moves in a row for a collective loss of seven-tenths (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.3, 6+). Two-tenths of a share separated this market’s two sports talk behemoths in September and that’s the same margin in October. The difference is that Beasley 
Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (eighth to fourth, 6+) overtakes WEEI-FM (4.6 – 5.1, +.5, 6+). Notwithstanding that WEEI-FM regained the half-share it lost in September, the Entercom property backslides from seventh to eighth. As it entered the September ratings period, WEEI-FM had been an overall +1.1 in three straight positive spikes (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 5.1, 6+). A +1.0 in April cut in half a cumulative -2.0 in February and March (5.4 – 4.1 – 3.4, 6+). Meanwhile, WBZ-FM was a combined -1.9 in June and July (5.7 – 4.3 –
3.8, 6+), but bounces back with three straight increases for a cumulative +1.5 (3.8 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 5.3, 6+). WBZ-FM is the flagship of the New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Bruins; WEEI-FM is the key station of the Boston Red Sox radio network. Given that the Red Sox set a franchise record for most wins in a season and won the 2018 World Series this past Sunday (10/28), it should be interesting to see the station’s November stats. As noted above, the October 2018 survey period ended October 10. Despite returning the one-tenth it gained in September (5.3 – 5.4 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM manages to progress from #6 to a three-way tie at #4; “News Radio 1030” declined by one-half share in August. An April loss of nine-tenths ended three straight improvements that produced a cumulative +1.5 (4.9 – 5.2 – 5.4 – 6.4, 6+); 6.4 in March is its best 6+-stat since January 2017’s 6.6. Flat at 5.5 (6+), Boston University’s news/talk WBUR nonetheless jumps from fifth to third. In June, WBUR forfeited half of May’s +.6 with a loss of three-tenths; it was +1.0 in March. The June 2018 – October 2018 topline for WGBH Educational Foundation news/talk WGBH is 3.5 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.4 (unchanged at #12, 6+). Prior to August’s +.1, WGBH was an overall -1.6 in three decreases in a row (4.7 – 4.1 – 3.5 – 3.1, 6+).
Boston Music Formats – With a gain of seven-tenths (2.3 – 3.0, #14 to #13, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WKAF “97.7 Boston’s #1 For R&B” has its best 6+-stat since May (3.0, as well). Mainstream CHR cluster-mate WXKS-FM is on top for the tenth consecutive ratings period, but “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” is without an increase for the third report in a row for an overall -1.1 (7.8 – 7.8 – 7.1 – 6.7, 6+). October’s 6.7 is the lowest 6+-showing for “Kiss” since “Holiday” 2017’s 6.4. Its format challenger, Entercom’s WODS “103.3 Amp Radio” (#14 to #16), has a “Holiday” 2017 – October 2018 topline trending of 2.6 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 (6+). University of Massachusetts-owned triple A/folk/blues hybrid WUMB forfeits six-tenths (.8 – .2, #32, 6+). Recording October 2018 deficits of one-half share each are Entercom adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” (5.8 – 5.3, third to fourth, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s WZLX “Classic Rock 100.7” (5.7 – 5.2, fourth to seventh, 6+). Within 2.2 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 16th straight sweep, WZLX rhythmic CHR sibling WJMN “Jam’n 94.5” (2.3 – 2.6, +.3, 6+) backslides from #14 to #15. Following five consecutive up or flat moves that netted nine-tenths (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 2.1, 6+), Cumulus Media hot AC WXLO slips three-tenths to 1.8 (#17 to #18, 6+). With a 2.1 in September, WXLO reached the two-share level for the first time in nearly four years (2.0, November 2014). Down for the fourth successive sweep for a combined -.9 (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WKLB “Country 102.5” continues at #9, while iHeartMedia-owned WBWL “101.7 The Bull – Boston’s New Hit Country” is off by an overall half-share in September and October (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.8, #17 to #18, 6+).
Miami
English-Language, Spoken-Word Formats – Entering the October sweep with a May through September topline pattern of 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.9 – 2.0 (6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” picks
up two-tenths to 2.2 (#20 to #19, 6+). WIOD’s one-half share loss in May halted seven straight positive or flat trends that netted an overall nine-tenths (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+). Flat at .9 (6+), Entercom’s WQAM backslides from a 
five-way logjam at #25 to #27. A May gain of two-tenths by “Sports Radio 560” suspended five sweeps in succession without an increase for a collective -.8 (1.5 – 1.2 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .7, 6+). Its May through October stats are: .9 – .8 – .9 – .8 – .9 . 9 (6+). One-tenth behind WQAM is cluster-mate WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (.9 – .8, -.1, #25 to #29, 6+). Its +.3 in September curtailed seven straight (mostly) flat or down trends that accounted for a loss of three-tenths (.9 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .9 – .8 – .7 – .6, 6+). Tied with WIOD at #19 is Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN, which is up a collective four-tenths via three (modest) gains in succession (1.8 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.2, 6+).
Miami Music Formats – Not only is Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ on top for the fifth straight month, “Easy 93.1” is a collective +1.0 in three consecutive improvements (6.9 – 7.4 – 7.8 – 7.9, 6+). After three straight months without a decrease for an overall gain of eight-tenths (6.7 – 7.3 – 7.3 – 7.5, 6+), WFEZ faltered by six-tenths in July. Prior to April, “Easy 93.1” had been within 6.2 – 6.8 range (6+) in each of the previous 12 sweeps. A collective +.5 in August and September (5.5 – 5.8 – 6.0, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted WLYF “101.5 Lite FM” falters by six-tenths to 5.4 (6+) but remains in fifth-place. In three straight monthlies without an increase, WLYF was a cumulative -1.2 (6.7 – 6.4 – 5.8 – 5.5, 6+). July 2018’s 5.5 is the lowest 6+-share for “Lite” since 5.2 in July 2017. Advancing from seventh to sixth, Cox Media Group urban contemporary WEDR “99 Jamz” has a March – October (6+) topline of 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.7. By adding one-tenth to 2.3 (6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic hot AC WMIA “93.9 MIA – Variety From The ‘80s, ‘90s, & Today” (level at #18) applies the brakes to four straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a combined -1.1 (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.2, 6+). It’s been a wild ride recently for Univision Radio-owned Spanish tropical WRTO which was +.5 in August; -.5 in September; and now -.8 in October (3.5 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 2.7), with “Mix 98.3” freefalling from #10 to #17. In July, WRTO surrendered three-tenths, thus snapping at four a consecutive string of increases that yielded nine-tenths (2.9 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+). In addition to WLYF (see above), Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” (6.2 – 5.6, 6+) and Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary WCMQ “Zeta 92.3” (6.1 – 5.5, 6+) regress by six-tenths; “Hot” and “Zeta” remain at #3 and #4, respectively. A collective -1.4 in three straight downturns (7.5 – 7.1 – 6.8 – 6.1, 6+), WHQT picked up one-tenth in September. In a nearly even split, the market’s (6+) share for mainstream CHR swells by one-half share. Specifically, Cox Media Group’s WFLC “Hits 97.3” is up three-tenths (3.0 – 3.3, #14 to #11, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned WHYI logs a +.2 to 3.4 (6+) as “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#12 to #10). Immediately prior to October, “Hits 97.3” was down three sweeps in a row for an overall loss of seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.6 – 3.3 – 3.0, 6+). “Y-100” is trending 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 3.4 (March – October, 6+).
Detroit
Spoken-Word Formats – In addition to reentering the top ten (#11 to #10), Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760” is a combined +.9 through three upticks in a row (3.6 – 3.8 – 4.1 – 4.5, 6+). Its +.2 in August suspended three straight negative trends that
accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (4.3 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+). Erasing its -.7 in three downward moves in a row (5.3 – 5.6 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+) with a combined +1.2 in September and October (4.6 – 5.5 – 5.8, 6+), Entercom sports talk WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” climbs from sixth to fifth. “The Ticket” was up nine-tenths in April. Unchanged at #3, co-owned 
WWJ “News Radio 950” is an overall +1.6 through three consecutive positive spikes (5.5 – 6.3 – 6.5 – 7.1, 6+) and has its strongest 6+-stat since March 2017’s 7.4. Following four up or flat trends in succession for a collective +1.0, WWJ was -.8 in April; and was then frozen on 5.8 (6+) in May and June. Returning the one-tenth it gained in September (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+), Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM falls from #18 to #20. Its +.1 in September curtailed eight straight survey periods without an increase for a collective -.3 (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+). Owing to four straight gains, Wayne State University news/talk WDET (level at #22) has nearly doubled its 6+ AQH share (.6 – .7 – .8 – .9 – 1.1, 6+).
Detroit Music Formats – Within 5.0 – 5.9 range (6+) in each of the last six sweeps (5.9 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 5.8 – 5.7, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WNIC (fifth to fourth) dials up a +.5 to 6.2, its strongest 6+-showing since 6.9 in March. In four consecutive decreases, Cumulus Media’s WDRQ was -1.0 (3.0 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.0, 6+), but “93.1 Nash FM” is up two-tenths to 2.2 (6+) and carries on at #17. When WDRQ slipped by two-tenths in June, it halted five consecutive up or flat moves that netted nine-tenths (2.1 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). Despite picking up one-tenth (5.5 – 5.6, 6+), Entercom’s similarly-formatted WYCD “99.5 Detroit’s Best Country” backslides from sixth to seventh. Three down or flat moves in succession by WYCD accounted for a cumulative loss of one-half share but that was fully erased in June with a +.5. Even though Beasley Media Group’s WCSX is a cumulative -1.0 in three straight declines (8.3 – 7.9 – 7.4 – 7.3, 6+), “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” segues from second to first. WCSX spent four straight months at #1 before being ousted in September. A loss of two-tenths in June ended five straight positive spikes that generated a +2.5 (5.4 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.7 – 7.6 – 7.9, 6+). The station that replaced “Detroit’s Classic Rock” at #1 in September – Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC “104.3 Detroit’s Greatest Hits” – sputters by six-tenths (7.5 – 6.9, 6+) and shifts to third. A collective -1.3 in three consecutive negative moves (5.9 – 5.6 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WRIF “Everything That Rocks” picks up two-tenths to 4.8 (6+) and advances from tenth to ninth. The aforementioned streak came immediately after four consecutive improvements that led to a combined +1.5 (4.4 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 5.5 – 5.9, 6+). June’s 5.9 is its strongest 6+-stat since January 2017 (5.9, as well).
Seattle
Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to three straight positive spikes (5.1 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.6, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM is a collective +1.5 and continues at #2. Prior to
its -.7 in June, KIRO-FM had an October 2017 – June 2018 6+-topline of 5.7 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 5.8. By posting a gain of six-tenths to 2.9 (6+), co-owned
KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” jumps from #20 to #16. KTTH had been within 2.0 – 2.4 range the past six months (2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.3, 6+). Steady at #24, Sinclair Broadcast Group-owned KVI “Talk Radio 570” is without a loss for the fifth consecutive report (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+) and is up three-tenths in that timeframe. Off eight-tenths via three straight down or flat trends (4.2 –
3.5 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+), Bonneville sports talk KIRO-AM applies the brakes by adding three-tenths to 3.7 (6+); “ESPN 710” leaps into the top ten (#13 to #10). As a result of four positive spikes in succession (2.3 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), the Seattle Mariners flagship was a combined +1.9. Prior to May, the last time KIRO-AM reached the four-share level (6+) was in October 2015 (4.3). In three straight gains, iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 
950” has nearly tripled (+.9) its 6+ AQH share (.5 – .7 – .9 – 1.4, #26 to #23, 6+). Level at #19, Sinclair Broadcast Group’s all-news KOMO was down two-tenths in June (2.6 – 2.4, 6+); up two-tenths in August (2.3 – 2.5, 6+); up another two-tenths in September (2.5 – 2.7, 6+); but now down two-tenths in October (2.7 – 2.5, 6+). Even though Northwest Public Radio news/talk KUOW is a collective +.9 in four consecutive up or flat trends (5.4 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.3, 6+) and has its highest 6+-share (6.3) since April’s 6.5, it actually slips from first to third. August’s increase concluded three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for an overall -1.1 (6.5 – 6.0 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). KUOW took over the runner-up slot in May after a one-month stay at #1. On top for four straight months before dropping to second in December, KUOW was +1.5 in January (6.4 – 7.9, 6+) as it returned to #1.
Seattle Music Formats –
There’s another huge shift for Hubbard-owned CHR KQMV, which was +1.7 in July (6.1 – 7.8, 6+); then -1.4 in August; -.6 in September to 5.8, its lowest 6+-showing since April’s 5.6; and now +1.0 (to 6.8, 6+) in October. “MOViN 92.5,” which finished on top in June, July, and August, progresses from third to first. The market’s still new adult contemporary skirmish has become quite interesting. It became a two-way battle in early-December 2017 when Entercom jettisoned country on KMPS and debuted KSWD “The Sound” in its place. This time last month, “The Sound” overtook longtime incumbent – Hubbard’s KRWM “Warm 106.9” – for the first time since KSWD’s format shift to AC. With a +.7 in October, KSWD (4.2 – 4.9, eighth to fourth, 6+) lengthens the (6+) lead over “Warm” (#9 to #14, 6+) from .2 in September to 1.5. In August, “The Sound” posted a one-half share increase to halt four straight down or flat trends that resulted in a loss of eight-tenths (4.1 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+). “Warm” is currently -1.6 in four successive setbacks (5.0 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+). Prior to a +.3 in June, KRWM was -7.1 (or down roughly 60%) in five consecutive down or flat sweeps (11.8 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). Its 11.8 in “Holiday” 2017 was the AC station’s strongest 6+-stat since 13.4 in “Holiday” 2015; “Warm” was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2017. Immediately after dropping seven-tenths in September, Classic Radio’s KING “98.1 Listener-Supported Classical Music” bounces back with a one-half share gain (1.7 – 2.2, #22 to #21); September’s 1.7 is its lowest 6+-stat since 1.6 in November 2017. No sooner did Seattle’s 6+ hot AC share balloon by +1.3 in September, it sinks by -2.0 in October, split precisely between Sinclair Broadcast Group’s KPLZ “Star 101.5” (4.7 – 3.7, -1.0, seventh to tenth, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned KBKS “106.1 Kiss FM Seattle’s New Hit Music” (3.2 – 2.2, -1.0, #16 to #21, 6+). In September, “Star” was +.7 and “Kiss” was +.6. Off by six-tenths in addition to KRWM (see above) are iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KJR-FM “95.7 The Jet” (fourth to fifth) and Crista Ministries contemporary Christian KCMS-FM “Spirit 105.3” (3.5 – 2.9, #12 to #16, 6+). “The Jet” is a collective -1.8 in three straight declines (6.4 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.6, 6+). Within 2.4 – 2.8 range (6+) six survey periods in a row (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+), “Spirit 105.3” dialed up a +1.0 in September to 3.5, its strongest 6+-performance since December 2017 (3.5, as well). Without an increase for the fifth straight sweep for a collective -1.6 (6.2 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+), Entercom’s KISW “99.9 Seattle Rock Music” moves from fifth to sixth. Continuing at #20, co-owned rhythmic hot AC KHTP “Hot 103.7” is a collective -1.1 in five consecutive reports without an increase (3.4 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+). One Seattle country station improves by four-tenths (Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf,” 3.8 – 4.2, tenth to eighth, 6+), while the other falters by four-tenths (Hubbard’s KNUC “98.9 The Bull,” 3.2 – 2.8, #16 to #18, 6+).
Phoenix
Spoken-Word Formats – A collective +.7 in four increases in a row (3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), Bonneville news/talk KTAR-FM enters the top ten (#11 to #10). KTAR-FM
was up three-tenths in April but was then a combined -.5 in May and June. Faltering by four-tenths in September, iHeartMedia’s KFYI regains half that loss in October with a +.2 (2.5 – 2.7, #17 to #16, 6+). Prior to 
September, “News Talk 550” logged four straight gains that netted eight-tenths (2.1 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+). After its one-half share September increase to 3.1 (6+), Bonneville sports talk KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports” drops one-tenth to 3.0 but stays at #13 (6+). September 2018 marked the first time the Arizona Diamondbacks flagship reached the three-share level (6+) since October 2017’s 3.0. Jumping from #15 to #12, Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ adds three-tenths to September’s +.1 (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.1, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing (3.1) since April’s 3.6. Its July increase of six-tenths halted three consecutive negative moves that accounted for a combined -1.5 (3.9 – 3.6 – 2.7 – 2.4, 6+).
Phoenix Music Formats – A one-half share increase (to 6.6, 6+) by KESZ applies the brakes to four consecutive declines (including September’s -1.2) that accounted for an overall -2.9 (9.0 – 8.7 – 7.5 – 7.3 – 6.1, 6+). Moreover, it sends the iHeartMedia adult contemporary outlet from second to first. After spending ten straight sweeps at #1, KESZ shifted to the runner-up slot in September. The station’s 16.4 in “Holiday” 2017 was its strongest 6+-showing since 16.5 in “Holiday” 2016. Off two-tenths (6.3 – 6.1, 6+), Hubbard’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” – which was +.8 in August – segues from first to third. As the result of July’s -1.1 to 5.5 (6+), KSLX erased in its entirety the +1.1 it netted in six straight sweeps without a loss (5.5 – 5.8 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.6, 6+). Furthermore, “Classic Rock 100.7,” which occupied the runner-up slot eight consecutive ratings periods, shifted to fifth. In addition to KESZ, The Yucaipa Companies’ rhythmic CHR KKFR “Power 98.3” (#20 to #19) notches a one-half share increase and is an overall +.9 in three positive spikes in succession (1.5 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.4, 6+). Meanwhile, Entercom’s similarly-programmed KALV “Live 101.5” falters by seven-tenths (3.7 – 3.0, 6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #13). Having been within 5.2 – 5.9 range (6+) from January through September (5.2 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.6 – 5.7 – 5.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KNIX “102.5 Today’s Best Country & All-Time Favorites” erodes by -1.3 to 4.6 (6+), drifting from third to eighth. Its format challenger – Entercom’s KMLE “Country @ 107.9” – follows September’s -.2 with an October loss of one-tenth (4.2 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+) and remains at #9. Without an increase for the third straight month, The Yucaipa Companies’ hot AC KMVA “Hot” is a collective -1.0 in that stretch (3.5 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 2.5, #13 to #19, 6+). A cumulative -2.1 (or roughly -50%) in seven successive down or flat trends (4.1 – 4.0 – 3.2 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+), Farmworker Educational Radio regional Mexican KNAI “101.9 Campesina” exits the top twenty (#19 to #21).
Minneapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Unchanged at #11, Entercom-owned WCCO logs a 4.4 (6+) for the fourth successive month. Prior to August, the four previous fluctuations for “News Radio 830” were +.8 (April); -.8 (May); -.8 (June); and +.5 (July). Bouncing
back from a September loss of three-tenths (3.7 – 3.4, 6+) with an October gain of seven-tenths (to 4.1, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTLK Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” progresses from #14 to #13. In advance of the June ratings period, KTLK was +1.4 in five successive sweeps without a loss (2.5 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+). Repeating at #16, Hubbard news/talk KTMY “My Talk 
107.1” erases September’s -.2 with a +.3 (2.7 – 2.5 – 2.8, 6+). An August gain of three-tenths halted three straight down or flat moves that accounted for an overall loss of seven-tenths (3.1 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.4, 6+). Zooming from ninth to third, iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” is an overall +2.8 in
three consecutive increases (3.7 – 3.8 – 4.9 – 6.5, 6+). This streak directly follows four dips in a row that produced a collective -2.1 (5.8 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+). With a February through October topline of 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – .8 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .8 – .7 (6+), Hubbard sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” slips from #22 to #24. Up one full-share in three straight upticks (3.7 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+), Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW advances from tenth to ninth. Immediately prior, KNOW was a collective -2.2 in four negative moves in a row (5.9 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 3.7, 6+). Several of its recent fluctuations include: -.7 (February); +.7 (March); -.5 (April) +.7 (May) -.7 (July); and +.7 (August).
Minneapolis Music Formats – Following four consecutive increases for a cumulative +1.0 (3.2 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KTCZ “The Cities” dropped six-tenths in August; was flat in September (at 3.6, 6+); and now regains August’s -.6 (3.6 – 4.2, steady at #13, 6+). Having posted four straight downward trends that accounted for a -1.5 (8.6 – 7.9 – 7.8 – 7.5 – 7.1, 6+), Hubbard’s similarly-formatted KSTP-FM is up a combined four-tenths in September and October (7.1 – 7.4 – 7.5, 6+). On top of that, “KS-95” marches from second to first. KSTP-FM held the lead position seven straight sweeps before being ousted in August. Its -.7 in May suspended four successive progressive moves that netted a +2.8 (5.8 – 7.6 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 8.6, 6+). Exiting the top spot (after just one month) in dramatic fashion is iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KQQL, which erodes by -1.3 (8.0 – 6.7, 6+); “Kool 108 – Minnesota’s Greatest Hits” shifts to the runner-up slot. Its September increase of nine-tenths halted three straight negative moves that generated a -.6 (7.7 – 7.3 – 7.2 – 7.1, 6+); 8.0 in September is its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2017’s 14.2. Slumping by seven-tenths each are co-owned CHR KDWB “101.3 The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station” (7.2 – 6.5, flat at #3, 6+) and Entercom’s KMNB “Minneapolis Country Music – Buz’n @ 102.9” (#12 to #14). KDWB occupied the top spot for just one month before being replaced by KQQL. August’s 7.8 is the highest 6+-share for KDWB since September 2016’s 8.1. Prior to August 2018, the last time KDWB claimed the top spot was August 2017. Meanwhile, “Buz’n @ 102.9” is down a collective nine-tenths in four consecutive down or flat reports (4.2 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.3, 6+). Despite gaining two-tenths (5.2 – 5.4, 6+, after September’s -.8), iHeartMedia’s KEEY “K-102 Minnesota’s Country Station” backslides from sixth to seventh. A loss of six-tenths (5.2 – 4.6, sixth to tenth, 6+) takes Entercom adult hits KZJK “104.1 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” to its lowest 6+-share since November 2017 (4.6, as well).
San Diego
Spoken-Word Formats – Steady at #7, iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO picks up three-tenths (4.4 – 4.7, 6+). “News Radio 600” was +.8 (January); -.7 (February); +.8
(March); +.6 (May); and -.6 (August). October 2017’s 7.2 is KOGO’s highest 6+-share in its PPM-history. With a gain of three-tenths (1.4 – 1.7, #23 to #22, 6+), its similarly-formatted Los Angeles sibling, KFI “AM 640,” overtakes Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760,” which is flat at 1.6 (#22 to #23, 6+), after being down one-tenth 
in back-to-back sweeps (1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6, 6+). KFMB-AM’s June increase of one-tenth interrupted three straight negative moves that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+). Three sports talkers finish one after another: Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM “The Mighty 1090” (.9 – 1.2, +.3, #25 to #24, 6+), its highest 6+-stat since April’s 1.2; iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” (.8 – .9, +.1, #27 to #25, 6+); and Entercom-owned/San Diego Padres flagship KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (.9 – .8, -.1, #25 to #26, 6+). San Diego State University-owned news/talk KPBS continues an amazing journey. It shifted from first to second in April; returned to #1 in May; dropped from first to third in June; slipped from third to fourth in July; returned to first in August; segued from first to second in September; and returns to first in October (6.2 – 6.7, +.5, 6+). KPBS was up seven-tenths in August.
San Diego Music Formats – Seven consecutive ratings periods without a loss by iHeartMedia-owned CHR KHTS yielded a collective +2.8 (3.5 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 6.3 – 6.3, 6+), but “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” slips two-tenths to 6.1 (6+). As a result, it is a short one-month stay at the top for KHTS, which drops to second. On the heels of posting a +1.1 in September (2.6 – 3.7, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVJ relinquishes seven-tenths (3.0, #10 to #14, 6+). In September, San Diego’s version of “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” reached the three-share threshold (3.7, 6+) for the first time since March (3.1). Faltering by seven-tenths as well is Entercom’s KSON “103.7 New Country,” which is an overall -1.4 in four straight down or flat trends (6.3 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 4.9, fourth to sixth, 6+). Having posted a 2.5 (6+) in three of the past five survey periods (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+), Media Sports de Mexico classic hits-oldies XPRS-FM “105.7 Max FM” sputters by one-half share to 2.0 (#18 to #21, 6+). There is a tie between the market’s alternative competitors as Entercom’s KBZT “Alt 94.9” is down four-tenths (2.7 – 23, #17 to #18, 6+), while XETRA Communicaciones’ XTRA-FM “91-X” gains three-tenths (2.0 – 2.3, #21 to #18, 6+). A collective +1.6 in July and August (3.7 – 4.7 – 5.3, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KLNV is an overall -1.2 in September and October (5.3 – 4.4 – 4.2, 6+) slipping from seventh to ninth. In August, “Que Buena 106.5” crossed the five-share level 6+ (5.3) for the first time since “Holiday” 2017’s 5.1. In five downward or flat moves in a row (4.0 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.1, steady at #20, 6+), Imagen Spanish contemporary XLTN “104.5 Radio Latina” is a collective -1.9 (approximately -50%).
Denver
Spoken-Word Formats – Entering the October sweep with a May through September topline of 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 5.1 (6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KOA explodes with a
+1.1 to 6.2, marching from fourth to second. “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” posted a +1.4 in April to zoom from ninth to first, but exited the top spot in May after a one-month run. Continuing an up/down pattern, iHeartMedia news/talk KHOW was +.3 (June); -.2 (July); +.1 (August); -.4 in September; and now +.1 in October (1.7 – 1.8, 6+) as “Talk 
Radio 630” repeats at #21. Immediately before the June sweep, KHOW had been down or flat four sweeps in a row for an overall setback of four-tenths (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.0 -1.9, 6+). KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Attitude Sports Radio 92.5” sputters by seven-tenths (1.0 – .3 #29, 6+). Advancing from #12 to #11 with its best 6+-stat (4.0) since December 2017’s 4.2, Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” is an overall +1.5 via three gains in a row (2.5 – 2.9 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+). KKFN dropped one-half share in June and July (3.5 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+), posting its lowest 6+-stat (2.5) since July 2017’s 2.3. Denver’s “Fan” was +1.0 in March. Similarly, Colorado Public Radio news/talk KCFR is +1.5 as the result of three consecutive upticks (5.2 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 6.7, 6+), with KCFR repeating at #1. It was a brief one-month stay at #1 (in May) for KCFR, which lost seven-tenths in June. Previously this calendar year, KCFR was #1 in January and March. After registering a one-half share increase in September to 1.3, Community Radio for Northern Colorado news/talk KUNC loses one-tenth to 1.2 (#23 to #22, 6+).
Denver Music Formats – This marks the third consecutive improvement for Colorado Public Radio classical outlet KVOD, which has more than doubled (+1.9) its 6+ AQH share in that timeframe (1.5 – 1.7 – 2.3 – 3.4, #19 to #14, 6+). Directly after registering three straight upticks that netted a +1.7 (4.9 – 6.1 – 6.5 – 6.6, 6+), Entercom classic rocker KQMT “99.5 The Mountain – A Mountain of Classics” is a combined -1.8 in September and October (6.6 – 6.0 – 4.8, 6+). On top in June, July, and August, “The Mountain” fell to second in September and fades to seventh in October. Without a loss the past four sweeps for a combined gain of six-tenths (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTCL “Channel 93.3 – Denver’s Modern Rock” forfeits nine-tenths to 4.1 (sixth to tenth, 6+). At the same time as Entercom hot AC KALC “Alice 105.9” gains two-tenths (4.3 – 4.5, tenth to eighth, 6+), its format rival – KSE Radio Ventures’ KIMN “Mix 100 Today’s Best Mix” – surrenders four-tenths (4.6 – 4.2, flat at #9, 6+). The (6+) April – May – June – July – August stats for “Alice,” which was up one-half share in September – were 4.1 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 3.8; “Mix” was +.7 in September. Immediately after registering three consecutive up or flat trends that yielded a +1.0 (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.6, 6+), KSE Radio Ventures classic hits-oldies KXKL followed with a combined -1.1 in June, July, and August (5.6 – 5.0 – 4.5 – 4.5, 6+). In September and October, “Kool 105 – Denver’s Greatest Hits” is +.5 (4.5 – 4.7 – 5.0, 6+) and leaps from eighth to fifth. May’s 5.6 is its most potent 6+-stat since December 2016’s 5.7. Since debuting in print in February, iHeartMedia’s KWBL “106.7 The Bull – Colorado’s New Country” (#16 to #17) is trending 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.8 – 2.8 (6+). Unchanged at #6, KOSI “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” is a collective -1.1 in three negative moves in a row (6.0 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.9, 6+). The Bonneville adult contemporary outlet was up or flat five consecutive months for an overall +1.4 (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.6 – 6.0, 6+). July’s 6.0 is the strongest 6+-showing for KOSI since Holiday’s 2017’s 11.5.
Tampa
Spoken-Word Formats – Following August’s +.6, iHeartMedia news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” is a combined -.9 in September and October (4.2 – 3.9 –
3.3, #11 to #15, 6+). In January and February, WFLA was +.5 (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+); -.5 in March (3.7 – 3.2, 6+); +.8 in April (3.2 – 4.0, 6+); +.4 in May (4.0 – 4.4, 6+); -.7 in July; +.6 in August (3.6 – 4.2, 6+); and -.6 in October (3.9 – 3.3, 6+). Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” wipes away September’s -.2 with an October gain of three-tenths (3.6, #14 to #11, 6+). Prior to September, “The Bone” was without a loss the previous four sweeps for a +.8 (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 3.1 – 3.5, 
6+). Four consecutive down or flat reports by iHeartMedia-owned WDAE resulted in a loss of two-tenths (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), but “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” is up a collective six-tenths in September and October (2.1 – 2.5 – 2.7, #18 to #17, 6+). While flat at #20, University of South Florida news/talk WUSF is up four-tenths (1.6 – 2.0, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing (2.0) since February’s 2.8. When WUSF added two-tenths in June, it halted six successive ratings periods without an increase that accounted for a collective -1.6 (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+).
Tampa Music Formats – The last three fluctuations for Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WXGL “107.3 The Eagle” (#2 for the third month in a row) are +.7 (August); -.8 (September); and +.6 in October (6.3 – 6.9, 6+). In August, “The Eagle” registered its highest 6+-stat since July 2017 (7.1, as well). Two-tenths behind “The Eagle” is Beasley Media Group’s WQYK “Tampa Bay’s New Country Hits,” which – with a +.5 to 6.7 (steady at #3, 6+) – pulls the plug on three straight (modest) decreases that led to a one-half share loss (6.7 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 6.2, 6+). With a July 2018 – October 2018 topline of 8.8 – 8.9 – 8.6 – 8.9 (6+), Cox Media Group-owned adult contemporary WDUV “Lite Favorites” is on top for the 74th successive ratings period. After four straight up or flat trends that netted seven-tenths (8.4 – 8.9 -9.0 – 9.0 – 9.1, 6+), WDUV slipped three-tenths in July but picked up one-tenth in August. A collective -1.7 as the result of three straight down or flat trends (6.4 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 4.7, 6+), Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WRBQ “Q-105” skids from third to sixth. Following five straight sweeps without an increase for a collective -1.3 (4.9 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WBTP recorded a +.6 in September, but “95.7 The Beat” forfeits eight-tenths in October (4.2 – 3.4, 6+), fading from #8 to #14. Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WCIE “The Joy FM” is -1.0 in three consecutive slips (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.7, eighth to tenth, 6+). At the same time that iHeartMedia-owned CHR WFLZ “93.3 FLZ – Tampa Bay’s #1 Hit Music Channel” is up or flat for the third consecutive sweep for a +.6 (3.6 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+) to progress from tenth to seventh, Cox Media Group’s similarly-formatted WPOI “Hot 101.5” is off one-tenth (3.7 – 3.6, #12 to #11, 6+).
Baltimore
Spoken-Word Formats – Independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” answers September’s one-half share loss (3.1 – 2.6, 6+) with a full-share increase to 3.6 (#12 to #11, 6+). When WBAL gained one-tenth in September to 2.5 (6+), it halted five straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a collective -.9 (3.3 – 2.8 –
2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+). The Hearst Television news/talk property adds another one-tenth in October (to 2.6, 6+) and advances from #14 to #13. Without a loss for the 
fourth month in a row for a +1.1 (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 5.1, 6+), Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” jumps from ninth to sixth. Baltimore’s “Fan” was +.6 (January); -.6 (February); +1.0 (April); and a combined -1.0 in May and June (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.0, 6+). While flat at #12, Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” gains four-tenths (2.6 – 3.0, 6+). WYPR was a collective -.5 in August and September (3.1 – 3.0 – 2.6, 6+). Following five decreases in a row for a cumulative -1.7 (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+), WYPR posted a July increase of six-tenths. American University-owned news/talker WAMU adds four-tenths to September’s +.1 (1.0 – 1.1 – 1.5, 6+) to proceed from a four-way tie at #18 to #15. Before slipping to 1.0 (6+) in August, WAMU notched a 1.1 (6+) five consecutive times in the Baltimore report. The March through October topline for Entercom business news WDCH is .8 – .8 – .8 – .6 – .5 – .5 – .6 – .8 (#26 to #25, 6+).
Baltimore Music Formats – After racking up eight successive up or flat trends that produced an overall +2.2 (2.8 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 5.0, 6+), Shamrock Communications-owned WZBA was off one-tenth in September to 4.9 (6+), but “100.7 The Bay – Baltimore’s Classic Rock Station” roars back in October with a +1.2 to 6.1 (6+), vaulting from eighth to third. A collective -1.8 in four successive negative moves (6.8 – 6.5 – 6.1 – 5.2 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WLIF answers with a combined +.8 in September and October (5.0 – 5.3 – 5.8, sixth to fourth, 6+). “Today’s 101.9” was #1 in December 2017 (9.7, 6+) and “Holiday” 2017 (16.3, 6+). Co-owned gospel WLIF-HD2, which more than tripled (+1.3) its 6+ AQH share in August and September (.6 – 1.1 – 1.9, 6+), surrenders nine-tenths to 1.0 (#15 to #20). Albeit that it erases September’s +.1 with October’s -.2 (8.8 – 8.6, 6+), Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM “Magic 95.9” finishes on top for the tenth successive sweep. In three consecutive decreases (11.6 – 11.5 – 10.3 – 9.4, 6+), “Magic” was an overall -2.2 but it responded in June with a +.3. After going eight straight ratings periods without a loss for an overall +3.8 (7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 8.7 – 9.2 – 10.4 – 10.6 – 11.6, 6+), it dropped one-tenth in March. Urban contemporary cluster-mate WERQ (7.6 – 7.9, +.3, 6+) occupies the runner-up slot for the sixth month in a row; “92-Q Jams” was up nine-tenths in August. Hearst Television’s WIYY “98 Rock” was -.8 in July; a collective +1.1 in August and September (4.4 – 5.0 – 5.5, 6+); and now -.6 in October (4.9, fourth to eighth, 6+). September’s 5.5 is its best 6+-stat since August 2017 (5.5, as well). Prior to July’s decrease, “98 Rock” registered six successive ratings periods without a loss for an overall +1.8 (3.4 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.2, 6+). Off a combined nine-tenths in three successive months without an increase (5.5 – 5.5 – 5.1 – 4.6, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR “102.7 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” slips from seventh to ninth. For the second month in a row, Peter and John Radio Fellowship contemporary Christian WRBS-FM is unlisted; “95.1 Shine FM – Baltimore’s Positive Hits Station” was #13 in August 2018 (2.6, 6+).
St. Louis
Spoken-Word Formats – Not only does Entercom news/talk KMOX repeat at #1, “The Voice of St. Louis” registers its third increase in a row for a collective +1.0 (7.4 – 7.6 – 8.3 – 8.4, 6+). Following a January +1.0, KMOX was a combined 
-.6 in February and March and was +2.3 in April. A gain of two-tenths to 2.8 (#16 to #17, 6+) Emmis-to-Entercom’s KFTK “FM News Talk 
97.1” pulls the plug on three straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in an overall loss of seven-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.6, 6+). Owing to May’s +.3, “FM News Talk 97.1” ended three straight negative moves that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+). An overall +1.3 via four straight up or flat moves (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.0, 6+), Hubbard sports talk
WXOS “101 Sports” carries on at #11. This streak was immediately preceded by three straight negative moves that generated a loss of eight-tenths (3.5 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.7, 6+); 4.0 is its strongest 6+-showing since January (4.0, as well). Even though it is without a decrease in each of the last five ratings periods for a net gain of six-tenths (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), University of Missouri news/talk KWMU backslides from #14 to #15.
St. Louis Music Formats – By gaining one-half share to 3.8 (#15 to #13, 6+), iHeartMedia’s country-formatted KSD “93.7 The Bull” applies the brakes to three downward moves in a row that resulted in a collective -1.2 (4.5 – 4.2 – 3.4 – 3.3, 6+). Its format rival – Hubbard-owned WIL “92.3 – Nobody Plays More New Country” – is a collective +1.0 in three upticks in a row (5.5 – 6.1 – 6.4 – 6.5, 6+) and is unchanged at #4. Without a gain the past five sweeps for a collective -1.2 (3.7 -3.4 – 3.4 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+), Emmis-to-Entercom CHR KNOU “Now 96.3 All The Hits” dials up a +.4 to 2.9 (#17 to #16, 6+). The three most recent fluctuations for Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “102.5 The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” are -.5 (August); +.5 (September); and -.7 in October (5.9 – 5.4 – 5.9 – 5.2, sixth to seventh, 6+). Its August loss ended six consecutive up or flat trends that netted +1.7 (4.2 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.9 – 5.9, 6+). Following five consecutive increases for a +1.9 (4.0 – 4.2 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 5.4 – 5.9, 6+), Hubbard’s KPNT “105.7 The Point – Everything Alternative” falters by four-tenths to 5.5 (6+), but carries on in sixth-place. Its 5.9 in September is the highest 6+-performance for “The Point” since March 2016’s 6.1.
Thursday, October 25, 2018
Talk Host Lars Larson at Center of Gun Rights Issue in Portland. According to a piece on Campus Reform’s website, KXL, Portland-based radio talk show host Lars Larson was required by the administration of Portland State University to promise
not to bring his permitted gun (legal in Oregon) to a Second Amendment event on the campus being sponsored by the PSU College Republicans. Larson was vocally critical of the school for making the request and for threatening the College Republicans if they invited Larson knowing he would bring his conceal carry weapon. Ultimately, the group cancelled the 
event. Larson is quoted saying he fought the school’s request for obvious reasons. “It would be the height of hypocrisy, for me to say ‘I’m going to go talk to these kids about the importance of their Second Amendment rights,’ while voluntarily forfeiting mine.” Larson also tells Campus Reform he plans to do a broadcast from the school. “Later this week, my producer and I will walk up, sit down in the student union, and I’m gonna do five or 10 minutes on a Facebook Live stream, explaining the entire background. I cannot speak to the students unless I give up my civil rights, I cannot do the broadcast that I wanted to do, and the students have been threatened.”
Nielsen Reports Q3 Financials; Net Income Down 32.4%. Ratings and consumer research giant Nielsen Holdings plc releases financial data for the third quarter of 2018 and reports revenue of $1.6 billion, down 2.5%, or 0.6% on a constant currency basis, compared to the third quarter of 2017. Free cash flow for the third quarter of 2018 decreased to $266 million, compared to $425 million in the third quarter of 2017. The company’s audio ratings service falls under its Watch segment and for the third
quarter, Audio revenue dipped 1.6%, from $127 million in 2017 to $125 million in Q3 of 2018. However, the company reports “Audience Measurement of Video and Text revenues increased 4.7%, or 5.2% on a constant currency basis, due to continued client adoption of our Total Audience Measurement system and our ongoing investments, including Gracenote.” Nielsen executive chairman Jim Attwood says, “The third quarter revenue and earnings are consistent with our updated 2018 guidance despite a number of near-term challenges in our markets. We have a number of key initiatives and actions that we are pursuing to improve our future outlook. Together with the board of directors, we are aligned on a set of operational priorities to drive the business forward. In addition, the board of directors, with the assistance of our advisors and management team, is focused on the expanded strategic review that we announced in September, which includes a broad review of strategic alternatives for Nielsen and its businesses.”
SiriusXM’s Jim Meyer on Pandora Acquisition. During yesterday’s third quarter investor conference call, SiriusXM chief executive officer Jim Meyer talked about the company’s bid to acquire streaming pure play Pandora. He said the two platforms have the ability to cross-promote. He adds that the goal, obviously, is not to convince paying SiriusXM subscribers to leave for a cheaper or free version of Pandora. “At 
SiriusXM, we are running about 23 million trials in new and used cars this year. And the truth, as the flip side of our conversion statistics will tell you, is that most people don’t want to pay for radio at the end of the day. I feel there is a strong opportunity if we can link non-converters back to a Pandora or maybe a 
Pandora with a bit more content in a way that makes our combined business bigger, better, and more profitable. There are many ways we believe that one plus one will exceed two very quickly and we plan to give you additional color on that over the next few months.” The company is still waiting for anti-trust approval from the FTC and Justice Department before meetings with Pandora can affect any change there, but it is downplaying the synergies that might be realized from a combined operation. Meyer adds, “Last week, while I was out in Oakland for a Pandora board meeting, I had the privilege of speaking with a large group of Pandora’s talented employees. It was fantastic to talk about our shared future, what we can do with all of our financial resources, vast troves of data, unmatched content, enormous user bases, and some of the most talented people in radio and technology. I am confident that together, these two companies will be even stronger.”
TALKERS News Notes. Detroit’s “910 AM Superstation” – Kevin Adell -owned WFDF – brings local media personality Charlie LeDuff aboard to host a weekly, one-hour
program airing Mondays at 4:00 pm, titled, “No BS News Hour.” LeDuff is a former Detroit News and WJBK-TV, Detroit reporter. The weekly show is being designed as a companion to LeDuff’s Michigan-focused podcast of the same title. LeDuff says, “If you suffer from insomnia, I recommend you watch the news. If you want the news, I recommend you tune into the ‘No BS News Hour.’ Original reporting, nowhere else.”…..The “Motley Fool Money” with host Chris Hill adds new affiliates news/talk KGVO-AM/FM and KMPT-AM “Montana’s Progressive Talk” in Missoula for the weekly program. Hill tells TALKERS magazine that the addition of the Townsquare Media stations puts the program at the 52-affiliate mark…..SiriusXM is adding “The Dan Abrams Show: Where Politics Meets The Law” to its P.O.T.U.S. channel programming, effective October 29. The ABC News chief legal analyst will host a show that will “analyze the biggest news stories of the day from a legal perspective.” Abrams says, “The legal side of news stories is more important and prominent than ever. I’m thrilled to have this opportunity on SiriusXM to really dig in and separate the legal realities from the wishful spin for listeners and people calling in to the show.”…..New York Public Radio names longtime Viacom executive Depelsha McGruder chief operating officer. McGruder was most recently senior vice president of programming for BET Networks. NYPR operates not only public radio news/talk WNYC-AM/FM, but WNYC Studios and New Jersey Public Radio, as well…..Legendary college basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski is hosting the premiere episode of the 14th season of his SiriusXM talk show, “Basketball and Beyond with Coach K,” tonight at 6:00 pm ET.
SRN’s Larry Elder to Attend Meeting of Young Black Conservatives at Trump White House. According to a report in the New York Post, President Trump will
entertain a group of hundreds of young, black conservatives gathered for the Young Black Leadership Summit, an event produced by Turning Point USA. Also attending this evening’s kick-off of the conference will be Salem Radio Network talk show host Larry Elder and actress-turned-conservative-pundit Stacey Dash. Donald Trump Jr. will also speak to the group this evening, as will HUD Director Ben Carson.
Pipe Bombs Sent to Top Democrats and CNN; Financial Markets Activity, Midterm Elections, Migrant Caravan, Mega Millions Jackpot, Khashoggi Murder Aftermath, Halloween ‘Blackface’ Issue, NFL Action, and World Series Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/24). The news of pipe bombs sent to CNN and top Democrats including the Obamas and the Clintons; the Dow loses 600 points and the activity in other world financial markets; the November midterm elections and the battle for control of the House and the Senate; the migrant caravan making its way through Mexico to the U.S. border; one winning ticket in South Carolina is sold for the $1.6 billion Mega Millions lottery; the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi and U.S.-Saudi relations; the issue of schools warning students not to dress in blackface for Halloween; the week’s NFL action; and the World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Seattle CHR KBKS-FM “106.1 KISS FM” is stunting in preparation for a format change. The stunt began on Wednesday with jockless programming peppered with mysteriously worded sweepers teasing the change. The status of the air staff with owner iHeartMedia is not known but numerous reports indicate AM drive personality Bender has exited…..Entercom hot AC KHMX “Mix 96.5” promotes afternoon drive personality Jason Cage music director, effective immediately. He’ll continue hosting his 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm program. Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “Jason has proven to be a very valuable contributor to the overall sound and feel of KHMX and has helped to lead culture here at Entercom Houston. We are excited to elevate him to the role of music director.”…..As a result of the flip of SummitMedia’s WJSR, Richmond from classic hits to adult hits as “Jack FM,” morning show team Bill Bevins and Shelly Perkins exits after a four-year stint.
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
iHeartMedia Releases August Financial Figures; Revenue Up 6.3%. Although iHeartMedia is not publicly traded and required by law to release financial data, it is
making monthly reports public during its Chapter 11 reorganization process. According to yesterday’s statement detailing August financial data, the company’s revenue climbed 6.3% to $299.4 million. Operating income rose significantly to $76.8 million, and net income rose to a five-month high of $66.9 million. (iHM posted sizable losses of $139.8 million and $119.7 million in both April and June, respectively.) During August, iHeartMedia paid out $9.7 million to outside professionals – those handling the reorganization process – down from July’s five-month high of $15.7 million.
Michael Harrison Podcast Poses Provocative Question: Does the Human Brain Act as a Kind of Radio/Television Antenna? Silicon Valley high-tech industry financial expert Mark Gober is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Gober is the author of a provocative new book titled “An End to Upside Down Thinking: Dispelling the Myth That the Brain Produces Consciousness, and the Implications for Everyday Life” (Waterside Press, 2018). In it, he presents the latest scientific research and evidence suggesting that, contrary to popular belief and
mainstream science dogma, human consciousness doesn’t originate in the brain but, rather, in a higher universal dimension – perhaps even beyond time and space as we perceive them. The implications of such a possibility are profound. Harrison states, “I’ve always been fascinated by the obvious connections between human biology and our technological extensions of it. In other words, our inventions are enhanced mechanical versions of what nature has already provided us. Is it not possible that just as the content of radio and TV programs does not originate in the physical appliances that pluck it out of the air for us, our consciousness – thoughts, words and creativity – comes from some other invisible source outside the brain? Maybe the brain is a biological radio antenna processing signals from elsewhere? Mark Gober’s book tackles this issue in a direct, credible and understandable way. He’s a great guest!” 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 on every page of Talkers.com.
TALKERS News Notes. The NFL’s Washington Redskins are working with Skyview Networks’ AdView Inventory Management software and Live Read Capture system, under a new, multi-year deal. Skyview says, “AdView’s custom design makes scheduling complex play-by-play inventory efficient, providing the Redskins a user-friendly
solution as they bring their radio rights in-house for the first time. With the ability to manage their own broadcast, the Redskins will benefit from scheduling flexibility and quick proof-of-performance turnaround to their sponsors.” Skyview vice president of business development Matt Stys comments, “We are thrilled to work with the Washington Redskins and believe that AdView will be a powerful tool as they begin managing inventory in-house for the first time. AdView is custom-tailored to play-by-play broadcasts, which maximizes value in scheduling. We look forward to growing our partnership in seasons ahead.”…..More Washington Redskins news as Entercom announces it has inked a deal with the club to present Spanish play-by-play on WJFK-AM “El Zol Deportes.” Entercom Washington SVP and market manager Phil Zachary states, “We’re excited to partner with the Washington Redskins and bring Spanish-language coverage of the team to fans in the community. As the unrivaled leader in sports radio, we remain committed to expanding our sports content and reaching an even broader audience.”…..In Indianapolis, Emmis Communications news/talk WIBC-FM takes on a new television partner for news and weather coverage. Since 2011, the
station had a relationship with E.W. Scripps’ ABC affiliate WRTV-TV. Going forward, the station is partnering with Nexstar’s CW affiliate WISH-TV. As part of the deal, WIBC-FM will air an audio simulcast of the 5:00 am to 6:00 am “Daybreak” program. Emmis Indianapolis vice president and market manager Bob Richards says, “WIBC has a serious commitment to local news. We are thrilled to work with a TV station that is equally passionate about local coverage. This partnership is a natural.” WIBC director of programming David Wood adds, “We are already planning for some joint projects that will make this TV-radio partnership unique to the market.”…..The Waco Herald-Tribune reports that the launch of a new sports talk station by Edwards Media LLC is being delayed until the end of this month due to “engineering and recent weather issues.” The station – be heard via the HD2 channel of the company’s co-owned hip hop KWBT-FM and on translator K231CG at 94.1 FM – is expected to air CBS Sports Radio programming such as Jim Rome and “Tiki and Tierney,” along with local morning show “Go Big or Go Home” with station GM Rich Richardson.….It’s been seven seasons since the Milwaukee Brewers made the MLB playoffs and to celebrate, flagship radio station WTMJ is hosting “The Hometown Call at Turner Hall” for game one of the National League Division Series on Thursday (10/4). At the venue, fans will hear Baseball Hall of Famer Bob Uecker calling the game on WTMJ while watching the television video. Station director of programming and news Eric Brooks says, “We can’t wait to hear Mr. Baseball calling October baseball with hundreds of Brewers fans hanging on his every word. This what the postseason is all about.”
Warner Wolf Loses Imus Age Discrimination Suit; Attorney Vows to Appeal. According to a report in the New York Daily News, longtime New York sports media
figure Warner Wolf has lost his age discrimination suit against former employer Don Imus, largely on jurisdictional grounds. Imus fired Wolf, who had been handling sports reports on the “Imus in the Morning” show from his home in Florida, in 2016. In the complaint, Wolf states that Imus regularly mocked his senior citizen status on air prior to firing him. But Manhattan Supreme Court Justice James d’Auguste ruled that since Wolf lived and worked in Florida, any discriminatory conduct would have taken place there. In his decision, Judge d’Auguste also noted that Imus’ jabs about Wolf’s age didn’t rise to the level of discrimination since Imus himself is also old. Wolf attorney Doug Wigdor says they will appeal.
Kavanaugh Investigation, Sanders’ Stop BEZOS Bill, the USMCA Deal, U.S.-China Tensions, Kanye West ‘SNL’ Pro-Trump Speech, Midterm Elections, NFL Action, and MLB Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/1). The accusations of sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and the FBI’s investigation into Christine Blasey Ford’s claim; Bernie Sanders’ bill that would tax Amazon, Walmart and others for the amount their workers receive in federal benefits; the new USMCA trade pact between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada; U.S.-China tensions over tariffs and China’s military programs in the South China Sea; the flap over Kanye West’s pro-Trump speech on “SNL”; November’s midterm elections and the battle to control congress; the weekend’s NFL action, and the MLB playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Atlanta, Louie Diaz is promoted to vice president/contemporary for Cumulus Radio Station Group. Diaz is continuing his role as operations manager for Cumulus Media Atlanta and as program director for CHR WWWQ “Q100.” Cumulus EVP of content and programming Mike McVay states, “This
move recognizes the success that our company has had with Louie Diaz, first in Dallas, then in D.C., and now in Atlanta. We’re excited to have him join the team in the Office of Programming at Cumulus Media.”…..Adult hits WRRA, Pittsburgh “96.9 BOB FM” has a new program director as John Robertson announces his retirement from the Steel City Media station and Sean Stevens rises to the PD position. Robertson has spent the last 20 years of his 40-plus year radio career with Steel City Media. Stevens is currently the afternoon drive star and will retain that role while assuming the PD position…..M-10 Broadcasting’s classic hits WQLL-AM “Q1370” brings Ken Merson, a.k.a. Merson Person, aboard to host the “Merson Person in the Morning” program, effective October 8. Merson has most recently been program director of SiriusXM’s “60s on 6” channel. Current morning host Platinum Pat O’Neill moves to afternoons to make room for Merson…..In Kansas City, Steel City Media’s adult contemporary KCKC “KC102.1 ups Natalie “Rush” Randall from her APD/MD role to program director. She says of her promotion, “I discovered a new family since joining the team at ‘KC102.1,’ and being able to watch the station grow has been such an honor. I’m excited to continue the 
forward momentum of KCKC and to lead the next chapter of the station.”…..WKLB, Boston morning personality Hannah Byrom exits the Beasley Media Group country station after two-plus years there. She says via Facebook, “This morning was my last show with ‘COUNTRY 102.5.’ It’s been a great run for the past two-and-a-half years, and I’ll miss getting to hang with [co-host] Jackson Blue & [producer] Santi DeOleo every morning. THANK YOU to every one of you that allowed me into your life every morning.”…..Drake Hall and “The Drake Hall Show” come out on top again in The
Memphis Flyer’s “Best in Memphis” 2018. Hall hosts the morning show on Cumulus Media’s rock WXMX “98.1 The Max.”…..The new classic hits radio show, “Throwback Nation Radio,” debuts tonight from 7:00 pm-12:00 midnight on AC and classic hits stations in multiple markets across the U.S. The show is being hosted by Tony Lorino and Danny Hustle…..Connoisseur Media announces the “One Song, One Us” campaign that is designed to “encourage unity, love, kindness, acceptance, and hope in our communities through the power of music and the artist’s messages by featuring a song at 2:00 pm every weekday on all stations.” Connoisseur director of brand management Michelle Stevens says the song will be chosen by the listeners. She says, “The interactive nature of this initiative will provide listeners an authentic acceptance of the things that really matter most to each of us as human beings. We all have struggled with issues like depression, addiction, insecurity, abuse, and a host of other things that can be disabling to the human spirit without compassion and support. Music is so often the familiar tie that is able to connect us all on a deeper level when it’s difficult to articulate for ourselves. Together, we can take a fresh approach to the meaning behind the lyrics and weave a bond of unity, inner strength and the simple reassurance that we are not alone.”
September 2018 PPM Data – Round One. Information for the September 2018 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen Audio’s September 2018 survey period covered August 16 – September 12. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM markets below.
TAKEAWAYS
New York City
Spoken-Word Formats – Off in each of the last four months for a collective -.8 (2.5 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” adds
three-tenths in September to 2.0 (#20 to #19, 6+). The key station of the Mets was up six-tenths in April. Its March gain of one-tenth ended five straight down or flat reports for a -.4 (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+). Flat at #23, Townsquare Media’s news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” records its fifth straight month without a loss (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+). Down of flat for six consecutive sweeps for a collective loss of three-tenths (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 -.9, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk WABC mirrors WKXW by picking up two-tenths 
(1.1, #25 to #24, 6+). Having logged a 4.7 in three of the last four sweeps (4.7 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.7, 6+), Entercom sports talk WFAN “Sports Radio” falters by eight-tenths to 3.9 (6+), sliding from fifth to ninth; 4.7 (May, July and August) is its best 6+-showing since 5.2 in November 2017. The Yankees’ flagship logged back-to-back gains of +.8 (3.1 – 3.9 – 4.7, March – April – May, 6+). For the third month in succession, WEPN posts a 1.4 (#22 to #21, 6+); “98.7 ESPN New York” was
locked on 1.7 (6+) in May and June. When WEPN picked up two-tenths in February, it halted three downward moves in succession that produced a loss of seven-tenths (1.8 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.1, 6+). A combined -2.0 in six consecutive sweeps without an increase (6.2 – 5.5 – 5.0 – 4.8 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+), Entercom all-news WINS manages to advance from seventh to a sixth-place tie. Trending 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.8 (6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WCBS-AM progresses from #15 to #13. In July, it ended three successive down or flat sweeps that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (3.3 – 2.9 – 2.7 – 2.5, 6+). With an August improvement of seven-tenths, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM recaptured in its entirety the seven-tenths it lost in May, June, and July (3.4 – 3.0 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+); however, the public radio news/talker surrenders six-tenths in September (3.4 – 2.8, #11 to #13, 6+). Meanwhile, after recording a .5 (6+) three times in a row, co-owned news/talk WNYC-AM gains one-tenth to .6 (#30 to #27, 6+).
New York City Music Formats – Up or flat for the sixth time in succession for an overall +.6 (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 4.0, 6+), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU “103.5 The Beat of New York” jumps from tenth to eighth. It overtakes Emmis’ similar-formatted WQHT “Hot 97 – #1 for Hip-Hop,” which sits at 3.9 for the fourth time in the last five ratings periods (3.9 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 3.9, 6+) and repeats at #9. After posting four straight modest gains for an overall boost of one-half share (3.5 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 4.0, 6+), “Hot” dropped one-tenth in July. An overall -1.6 via three setbacks in succession (8.5 – 7.7 – 7.3 – 6.9, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW is a combined +.6 in August and September (6.9 – 7.1 – 7.5, 6+). Moreover, “106.7 Lite FM” is #1 for the 14th successive sweep. Prior to July, the last time WLTW fell below a six-share (6+) was in October 2017 (6.6). A collective +7.1 in five consecutive gains (6.0 – 6.1 – 6.6 – 7.0 – 8.8 – 13.1, 6+), WLTW was -5.1 in January and February (13.1 – 8.5 – 8.0, 6+) but rebounded in March and April with a +.5 (8.0 – 8.4 – 8.5, 6+). Its urban contemporary sibling, WWPR, continues a down/up pattern that began in December 2017 (3.9 – 3.2 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.3 – 3.6 – 3.4 – 3.8 – 3.3 – 3.5, 6+) as “Power 105.1” climbs from #12 to #11. In the market’s hot AC battle, Entercom’s WNEW “New 102.7,” whose April through August topline was 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0 (6+), is off two-tenths to 2.8 (#13 to a four-way tie at #13), while Cumulus Media-owned WPLJ “New York’s 95.5 PLJ” adds one-tenth and is trending 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.3 (May through September, #18 to #17, 6+).
Los Angeles
Spoken-Word Formats – Albeit steady in sixth-place, iHeartMedia news/talk KFI “AM 640” is down or flat for the fourth time in a row for a collective loss of seven-tenths (4.4
– 4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+). Repeating August’s 1.2 (6+), Salem Media Group news/talk KRLA “AM 870 The Answer” inches up from #28 to #27. Flat in May (.8 – .8, 6+), and then up one-tenth 
in June, July, and August (.8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KEIB “AM 1150 The Patriot” drops two-tenths to .9 (6+) and remains at #32. Cumulus Media-owned KABC “790 News-Talk-Evolved” logs a .4 (6+) for the fourth month in a row and stays at #41 (6+). Matching the (6+) August – September (1.2 – 1.2) topline of KRLA is iHeartMedia-owned Los Angeles Dodgers flagship KLAC “AM 570 LA Sports,” which triples its 6+-stat (+.8) through eight successive sweeps without a loss (.4 – .4 – .5 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.2, #28 to #27, 6+). Tied with news/talk KEIB is sports talk KSPN “710 ESPN,” which bounces back from August’s -.4 with a +.1 to .9 (#33 to #32, 6+). Prior to August’s loss of four-tenths, KSPN gained one-tenth in three straight sweeps (.9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.2, 6+). A decrease of just one-tenth (3.1 – 3.0, 6+) is enough to force Entercom’s KNX from the top ten (#9 to #11); “1070 News Radio” added four-tenths in August. Down six-tenths in April, KNX followed with in an alternating 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.7 pattern (April – May – June – July, 6+). Over the course of the last seven sweeps, Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” (unchanged at #16) has a 6+ topline of 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5.
Los Angeles Music Formats – Within two-share range (6+) in each of the last 12 ratings periods, Meruelo Group rhythmic CHR KPWR “Power 106” busts out a +.6 to 3.2 (6+), catapulting from #15 to #9. On top for the fifth straight sweep, iHeartMedia hot AC KBIG is nonetheless off one-tenth for the third sweep in a row. In fact, its seven most recent trends are: 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 (6+). Dating back to December 2015, “My-FM” has set the pace on 17 of the past 37 Los Angeles sweeps: February 2017 through November 2017; January and February 2018; and May 2018 through September 2018. Remaining in the runner-up slot is Entercom classic hits-oldies KRTH “K-Earth 101,” which continues a repetitive 5.0 – 5.1 – 5.0 – 5.1 – 5.0 (6+) sequence. A collective +.7 in five straight months without a loss (4.1 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), smooth AC cluster-mate KTWV was then a combined six-tenths in three straight dips (4.8 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2, 6+). In September, however, “94.7 The Wave” improves by four-tenths to 4.6 (fifth to fourth, 6+). An overall -.7 in six consecutive down or flat trends (4.9 – 4.9 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR KIIS picked up four-tenths in August, but “102.7 Kiss-FM” returns half that increase in September (4.6 – 4.4, -.2, 6+), slipping from third to fifth. Meanwhile, Entercom’s similarly-programmed KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio” – which had logged a 2.7 (6+) in May, June, and July before adding one-tenth to 2.8 (6+) in August – sputters by one-half share to 2.3 (6+), plummeting from #12 to #20. In six straight up or flat trends (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+), co-owned KROQ was a combined +.7, but the alternative outlet drops one-tenth to 2.8 (#11 to #14, 6+). Its format foe, iHeartMedia’s KYSR-FM “Alt 98.7 – LA’s New Alternative,” is off a combined nine-tenths in four declines in succession (3.2 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3, #19 to #20, 6+). After logging a 2.1 (6+) the past three consecutive months, Univision Radio regional Mexican KSCA drops one-tenth to 2.0 (#21 to #22, 6+); “Zona Mx 101.9” is within 2.1 – 2.8 range (6+) for the 20th ratings period in a row. Similarly, Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters’ KKGO “Go Country 105” (#20 to #17, 6+) is within 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 35th time in succession and is without a loss for the fourth straight time (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+) for a net gain of three-tenths.
Chicago
Spoken-Word Formats – Bouncing back from August’s one-half share loss with a gain of three-tenths (2.5 – 2.8, 6+), Tribune Media news/talk WGN climbs from #17 to #16.
Entering the August sweep, the Chicago White Sox flagship posted three consecutive upticks for a combined full-share gain (2.0 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+). When WGN picked up two-tenths in May, it halted three successive decreases that accounted for a collective -1.3 (3.3 – 3.1 – 2.2 – 2.0, 6+). The May through September topline trending for Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-
AM is 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 (#23 to #22, 6+). Its +.2 in July ended four consecutive down or flat moves that accounted for a one-half share loss (2.0 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.5, 6+). Immediately prior to that, WLS-AM registered seven straight up or flat ratings periods and was +.7 in that stretch (1.3 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+). Having logged a fluctuation of one-tenth in each of the last three months (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+), Entercom sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” trots out a +.8 to 4.3 (eighth to
sixth, 6+). Off two-tenths in back-to-back reports (2.7 – 2.5 – 2.3, 6+), the Chicago Cubs flagship rebounded with a +1.3 in April and May (2.3 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+). Without an increase for seven successive sweeps for an overall loss of six-tenths (1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.0, 6+), ESPN-owned WMVP “ESPN Chicago 1000” is up two-
tenths to 1.2 (#26 to #24, 6+). After six straight down or flat showings for a collective -.7 (5.3 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+), Entercom’s WBBM-AM adds two-tenths to 4.8 (sixth to fourth, 6+); February’s 5.3 its finest 6+-stat since March 2017’s 5.4. A combined -.8 in four straight decreases (3.0 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.2, 6+), Chicago Public Media news/talk WBEZ is up one-tenth to 2.3 (flat at #20, 6+); it was an overall +.8 in March and April (2.2 – 2.5 – 3.0, 6+). A March increase of three-tenths ended six straight down or flat sweeps that resulted in a collective -.7 (2.9 – 2.7 – 2.6 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+).
Chicago Music Formats – While on top for the ninth month in a row, iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ “V-103 Today’s R&B and Throwbacks” (6.0 – 5.7, -.3, 6+) has its lowest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2017 (5.7, as well). WVAZ was up one-tenth in back-to-back ratings periods (5.9 – 6.0 – 6.1, May – June – July, 6+). Its gain of one-tenth in June halted four straight down or flat trends that produced a -.9 (6.8 – 6.6 – 6.1 – 6.1 – 5.9, 6+). In a highly-noteworthy eight straight up or flat trends (2.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 4.2 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.5, 6+), Hubbard’s WDRV more than doubled its 6+-stat (a combined +3.0). In September, however, “97.1 The Drive – Chicago’s Classic Rock” forfeits more than one-third of that increase (4.4, -1.1, second to fifth, 6+). Upon entering the September sweep, co-owned hot AC WTMX was no higher than 5.1 (6+) and no lower than 4.7 (6+) in each of the previous seven sweeps; however, “101.9 The Mix” regresses by eight-tenths to 4.1 (6+), sliding from fourth to seventh. A combined -.6 in July and August (3.5 – 3.1 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WLIT erases half the deficit in September with a +.3 to 3.2 (#15 to #12, 6+). Immediately prior to that, “93.9 Lite FM” notched three increases in succession for an overall gain of four-tenths (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+). Following August’s eight-tenths’ leap, Moody Bible Institute religious teaching WMBI “90.1 Moody Radio” surrenders more than half that increase (1.7 – 1.2, -.5, #24, 6+). Via three consecutive upticks, Cumulus Media-owned WLS-FM is a cumulative +1.2 (4.2 – 4.9 – 5.3 – 5.4, third to second, 6+). Before surrendering one-tenth in June, “94.7 Chicago’s Classic Hits” was an overall +1.6 in seven consecutive sweeps without a loss (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 4.3, 6+). Up or flat for the fifth successive month for a +.5 (2.6 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1, Hubbard adult contemporary WSHE carries on at #13. Seven-tenths ahead of “100.3 SHE” is Venture Technologies Group adult contemporary WRME-LP “FM 87.7 Me TV,” which is within 3.3 – 3.8 range (6+) for the eighth month in a row and up or flat for the third successive time (3.6 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8, seventh to eighth, 6+). Entercom’s WUSN “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” (3.3 – 3.7, +.4, tenth to ninth, 6+) has a more than two-to-one advantage over iHeartMedia’s WEBG “Big 95.5 – Chicago’s New Country” (1.8 – 1.6, -.2, #22 to #23, 6+). This is the 14th straight time that “US-99” is within 3.0 – 3.9 range.
San Francisco
Spoken-Word Formats – Following four successive increases for an overall +1.3 (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+), Cumulus Media news/talk KSFO falters by a combined -1.0 in
August and September (3.4 – 3.0- 2.4, #12 to #15, 6+). Prior to gaining two-tenths in March, KSFO was a combined -1.3 in five straight decreases, (3.4 – 3.0 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+). As a result of forfeiting three-quarters of August’s +.4 
(2.1 – 1.8, -.3, 6+), cluster-mate KGO departs the top twenty (#20 to #22). The August increase ended four successive down or flat trends that resulted in a -.3 (2.0 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.7, 6+). After trending 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.7 (6+) since April, co-owned San Francisco Giants flagship KNBR spirals by eight-tenths to 2.9 (6+) and fades from the top ten (#5 to #14). “The Sports Leader” gained nine-tenths in April. Chipping away at July’s -1.1 (2.6 – 1.5, 6+), Entercom’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game”
is a combined +.5 in August and September (1.5 – 1.8 – 2.0, #22 to #21, 6+). Before the June report, when it lost one-tenth, the key station of the Oakland A’s had been without a loss the previous nine ratings periods, nearly tripling (+1.7) its 6+-stat in that timeframe (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7, 6+). This marks the eighth time in a row that sibling KCBS-AM (5.7 – 5.3, -.4, 6+) finishes in the runner-up slot. Frozen on 5.4 (6+) in April and May, the all-news operation was then stuck on 5.5 (6+) in June and July. In advance of posting a one-tenth gain in June, KCBS-AM had been down or flat the previous four sweeps for a net loss of eight-tenths (6.2 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.4 – 5.4, 6+). It is 1.5 shares (6+) behind Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED (6.8, +.4, 6+), which is #1 for the eighth straight month. Its gain of four-tenths pulls the plug on five downward trends in a row that accounted for a -2.5 (8.9 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). San Francisco Unified School District’s KALW “91.7 Local Public Radio” notches a one-half share for the fifth time in the last seven monthlies (.5 – .5 – .6 – .4 – .5 – .5 – .5, #32, 6+).
San Francisco Music Formats – Steady at #4, Entercom-owned hot AC KLLC is up or flat for the fourth straight time for a +.5 (3.3 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+). Prior to June’s increase, “Alice @ 97.3” was off eight-tenths via four successive declines (4.1 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.3, 6+). Adult contemporary cluster-mate KOIT-FM “96.5 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” regresses by a collective -.7 in four straight down or flat moves (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.2, ninth to tenth, 6+). Unchanged at #3 is iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted KISQ “98.1 The Breeze,” which is -.4 in three modest dips in succession (5.0 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+), after being an overall +.6 via four straight up or flat trends (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 5.0, 6+). Improving by one-half share each and making healthy ranker moves in the process are Bonneville urban AC KBLX “102.9 The Soul of the Bay” (3.3 – 3.8, tenth to fourth, 6+); iHeartMedia hot AC KIOI “Star 101.3” (3.2 – 3.7, #11 to #6, 6+); and co-owned KOSF “iHeart80s @ 103.7” (2.7 – 3.2, #15 to #10, 6+). This is the best 6+-stat for “Star” since February’s 3.8. Meanwhile, the last time KOSF reached the three-share level was nearly three years ago (3.0, October 2015). In four straight up or flat sweeps, Cumulus Media classic rocker KSAN is an overall +.7 (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.0, #12 to #13, 6+). Prior to August, “107.7 The Bone” recorded a 6+-share between 2.0 – 2.9 in each of the previous 40 sweeps.
Dallas
Spoken-Word Formats – An increase of two-tenths to 2.4 (6+) is enough to send Cumulus Media’s WBAP back into the top twenty (#21 to #19). Preceding the
September sweep, “News Talk 820” posted a 2.2 (6+) in three of the previous five sweeps (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2, 6+). Salem Media Group-owned KSKY “660 AM The Answer,” which had been without an increase the past four months for an overall -.3 (1.0 – .8 – .7 – .7 – .7, 6+), gains two-tenths to .9 (6+) and is steady at #34. Down or flat four 
consecutive ratings periods (.6 – .6 – .6 – .5 – .4, 6+), Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM “570 News & Information” adds one-tenth to .5 (flat at #25, 6+). Displaying a repetitive 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 2.8 6+-topline, co-owned sports talk KTCK “The Ticket – All Sports, All The Time” continues at #16. The +1.2 (2.9 – 3.3 – 4.1, 6+) that “The Ticket” racked up in April and May was fully erased in June by a -1.2. Although level at 2.3 (6+), Entercom sports talk KRLD-FM
“105.3 The Fan” drops from #19 to a three-way tie at #20. Prior to August, “The Fan” had been down by one-tenth in each of the previous three sweeps (2.4 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+). In advance of a +.5 in April, the Texas Rangers flagship posted five straight negative trends that resulted in a -1.2 (3.1 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9, 6+). The ten most recent 6+-stats for ESPN’s KESN “103.3 ESPN Dallas” (#33 to #32) are 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0. Despite being a consistent 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.2 (6+) from June through September, Entercom news-talk hybrid KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” exits the top twenty (#19 to #23). In fact, going back to “Holiday” 2016, KRLD-AM is within a high of 2.8 and a low of 2.0. Prior to August’s +.2, “News Radio 1080” was a collective -.7 through five straight months without an increase (2.8 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.1, 6+). A loss of two-tenths in March ended at seven a consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted seven-tenths (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+). After notching a 6+-stat in the two-share range for 37 consecutive sweeps, North Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA posts a +.4 to 3.0 (#18 to #14, 6+).
Dallas Music Formats – At the same time that WAY Media contemporary Christian KAWA “WAY-FM Uplifting-Upbeat-Real” improves by seven-tenths (1.6 – 2.3, #20, 6+), First Dallas Media’s similarly-formatted KCBI “90.9 Encouraging Music – Words of Hope” regresses by one-half share (2.0 – 1.5, #27, 6+). It is the lowest 6+-share for KCBI since “Holiday” 2017’s 1.3. As the result of five straight sweeps without a loss, City of Dallas-owned WRR “Classical 101” more than doubles (+1.7) its 6+ share (1.4 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 3.0 – 3.1, #15 to #13, 6+). At #1 for the ninth straight month, iHeartMedia-owned KHKS “106.1 Kiss – Dallas/Fort Worth’s Hit Music” follows August’s +1.1 (5.5 – 6.6, 6+) with a loss of four-tenths to 6.2 (6+). “Kiss” was a combined -1.4 in June and July (6.9 – 6.3 – 5.5, 6+), after a +1.5 via three upticks in a row (5.4 – 6.0 – 6.7 – 6.9, 6+). When “Kiss” reached #1 in January, it was the first time the mainstream CHR held the lead position since March 2017. Without a loss for five successive sweeps for a +.7 (2.4 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.1, 6+), Entercom-owned KVIL “Alt 103.7 – DFW’s New Alternative” surrenders four-tenths to 2.7 (#13 to #18, 6+). Notwithstanding it is down or flat for the sixth time in a row (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+), Cumulus Media country outlet KPLX “99.5 The Wolf” climbs from sixth to fifth. It is two-tenths behind co-owned and similarly-programmed KSCS “New Country 96.3” (flat at 4.3 and steady at #3, 6+). When KSCS dropped nine-tenths in August, it curtailed seven successive up or flat trends that accounted for a +1.3 (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 5.2, 6+). July’s 5.2 represents the best-ever 6+ share in KSCS’ PPM history and first time it ever reached the five-share level (6+).
Houston
Spoken-Word Formats – Off a combined nine-tenths in August and September (4.1 – 3.6 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KTRH tumbles from #13 to #16; “News Radio 740” improved by six-tenths in January. Among the market’s sports talk competitors,
iHeartMedia-owned Houston Astros flagship KBME “Sports Talk 790” is trending 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.5 (unchanged at #22, 6+); Entercom’s KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” gains two-tenths (.9 – 1.1, 6+) yet backslides from #23 to #24, 6+); and Gow Communications’ KFNC returns August’s +.1 (.6 – .7 – .6, 6+) but “ESPN 97.5” remains at #27. Albeit flat at 3.2 (6+), University of Houston news/talk KUHF advances from #17 to #16, where it is tied with KTRH.
Houston Music Formats – An overall -1.3 in three straight negative moves (4.8 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 3.5, 6+), Radio One rhythmic CHR KBXX “97.9 The Box” responds with a +.4 to 3.9 (6+) and returns to the top ten (#14 to #9). In August, “The Box” slipped below a four-share (3.5, 6+) for the first time since July 2017’s 3.9. In addition to being on top for the fifth month in a row, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA “Sunny 99.1” is up six-tenths in three straight up or flat trends (7.0 – 7.3 – 7.3 – 7.6, 6+). Having finished first in four successive sweeps, “Sunny 99.1” segued to second in March, but then rebounded from a -1.1 in March with an April +.8 to return to the top spot. Its 12.5 in “Holiday” 2017 is its strongest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 10.3 and the first time any Houston station reached double-digits (6+) since that ratings period. A cumulative -1.5 in June and July (7.2 – 6.5 – 5.7, 6+), Radio One urban AC KMJQ responds with a collective +.7 in August and September (5.7 – 6.3 – 6.4, 6+). “Majic 102.1 – The People’s Station” remains in the runner-up slot for the fifth month in a row. Stuck on 7.0 (6+) in January and February, “Majic” dropped to 6.8 (6+) in March; it was tied for #1 in April. On the heels of gaining four-tenths in August to 4.2 (6+), Entercom Spanish contemporary KLOL “Mega 101” forfeits twice that increase with a September loss of eight-tenths (3.4, 6+), drifting from #9 to #15. In advance of the August sweep, “Mega 101” had a March – July 6+ topline of 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.8. Adult hits cluster-mate KKHH “95.7 The Spot,” which was +1.2 in four straight positive spikes (4.5 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 5.3 – 5.7, 6+), surrenders just over half that combined increase (5.0, -.7, third to seventh, 6+). Dating back to “Holiday” 2017, Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK was an overall +1.4 in eight straight up or flat trends (4.3 – 4.6 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.2 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+). The string ends in September though as “Houston’s Eagle” is off four-tenths to 5.3 (third to fourth, 6+). KGLK’s 5.7 in July and August is its strongest 6+-performance since 5.9 in October 2017.
Atlanta
Spoken-Word Formats – Down three-tenths in July and August (7.8 – 7.6 – 7.5, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM rebounds in September with a +.4 to 7.9 and is #1 for the 34th consecutive time. When WSB-AM gained three-tenths in June, it halted three
consecutive negative moves that accounted for a -2.7 (10.2 – 9.4 – 8.4 – 7.7 – 7.5, 6+). Leveling out at 1.3 (6+), following August’s -1.0 (2.3 – 1.3, 6+), Cumulus Media’s WYAY “106.6 Where Atlanta Comes to Talk” continues at #21. WYAY was a collective +.5 in June and July (1.8 – 
2.1 – 2.3, 6+). Prior to April’s 2.0 (6+), WYAY recorded a 1.8 (6+) in January, February, and March. A combined -1.1 in May and June (3.3 – 2.7 – 2.2, 6+), following an April increase of seven-tenths, Entercom sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” is now an overall +1.1 in three upticks in a row (2.2 – 2.5 – 3.2 – 3.3, #16 to #15, 6+). Doubling the two-tenths it picked up in August (2.0 – 2.4, +.4, 6+), Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “Sports Radio The Fan” carries on at #18. When the AM flagship of the Atlanta Braves lost two-tenths in July, it halted seven successive sweeps without a decrease that netted eight-tenths (1.2 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+). Down or flat five sweeps in a row for an overall -1.4 (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.1, 6+), City of Atlanta Board of Education news/talk WABE recoups half that deficit (seven-tenths) in August and September (3.1 – 3.5 – 3.8, #12 to #11, 6+). April – September stats for Georgia State University news/talk WRAS (#25 to #23) are .6 – .7 – .6 – .8 – .8 – .8 (6+).
Atlanta Music Formats – An increase of three-tenths to 5.5 (fifth to fourth, 6+) by Cox Media Group adult contemporary WSB-FM “B-98.5” pulls the plug on four down or flat sweeps in succession for a collective loss of seven-tenths (5.9 – 5.8 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.2, 6+). An overall -.9 in July and August (4.3 – 4.0 – 3.4, 6+), urban AC sibling WALR “Kiss 104.1 – Atlanta’s R&B” erases two-thirds of that shortage with a +.6 to 4.0 (6+) and is back in the top ten (#13 to #10). “Kiss” posted three negative trends in succession for an overall loss of nine-tenths (4.5 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 3.6, 6+), but was up seven-tenths in June. This Georgia metro’s two CHR rivals again finish back-to-back, only in September, iHeartMedia’s WWPW “Power 96.1 Atlanta’s #1 Hit Music Station” (ninth to seventh, 6+) emerges ahead of Cumulus Media’s WWWQ “Q-100, Atlanta’s New Hits” (unchanged at #8, 6+). “Power” is without a loss for the fifth straight time for a cumulative gain of one full-share (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4, 6+), while “Q-100” is up three-tenths in four straight up or flat moves (4.0 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 4.3, 6+). Locked on 6.6 (6+) in June and July, classic hits-oldies sibling WSRV notched a one-half share increase in August to 7.1 (6+), but “97.1 The River” surrenders seven-tenths to 6.4 (6+), segueing from second to third. Three positive spikes in a row by Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH netted a +1.9 (4.0 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 5.9, 6+), but “The Fish” falters by six-tenths to 5.3 (fourth to fifth, 6+). August’s 5.9 is its strongest 6+-showing since January’s 6.0. Following a May through August (repetitive 6+) sequence of 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.7, Radio One-owned WHTA “Hot 107.9” surrenders one-half share to 4.2 (seventh to ninth, 6+). In the market’s country contest, iHeartMedia’s WUBL “94.9 The Bull” is off one-tenth (3.8 – 3.7, #11 to #12. 6+), while Cumulus Media-owned WKHX “Kicks 101.5 – Atlanta’s #1 For Country Hits” adds one-tenth (3.3 – 3.4, flat at #14, 6+). A one-tenth May setback by “The Bull” ended four increases in a row for an overall gain of six-tenths (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.7, 6+); it was then -.7 in June. July’s 3.9 by “Kicks” is the station’s best 6+-showing since August 2017 (3.9, as well). Not only does Entercom hot AC WSTR have its consecutive string of up or flat monthlies that yielded a collective +1.4 end at four (2.5 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.9, 6+), “Star 94.1 – Today’s Hits” exits the top ten (3.6, -.3, #10 to #13). Having logged seven straight up or flat moves (1.3 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 2.1, 6+) and finishing #19 in May, Cox Media Group urban contemporary WSTR-HD3 is unlisted for the fourth month in a row.
Philadelphia
Spoken-Word Formats – Continuing its winning ways, Entercom’s WPHT is +1.3 in five straight positive spikes (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.8, #15 to #14, 6+). “Talk Radio 1210” was stuck on 1.8 (6+) in “Holiday” 2017 and January 2018 and 
then on 1.9 (6+) in February and March, before dropping to 1.5 in April. Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” (#21 to #22) is off two-tenths to 1.3, its weakest 6+-showing in Philadelphia since December 2017 (1.3, as well). After logging a +.7 in August, Entercom sports talk WIP “Sports Radio 94.1” levels out at 5.9 and remains in sixth-place (6+). Prior to August, WIP was a collective -1.7 in three straight decreases (6.9 –
6.1 – 5.6 – 5.2, 6+). The Phillies flagship was an overall +2.6 (January); -.8 (February); -2.9 (March); +1.1 (April); -.8 (May); -.5 (June); and +.7 in August. Flat at #18, Beasley Media Group sports talk WPEN-FM is without a gain for the fifth time in succession for an overall decline of one full-share (2.8 – 2.3 – 2.0 
– 2.0 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+); “97.5 The Fanatic” was +.9 in January. On the heels of an August +.7 to 5.2 (6+), Entercom’s KYW “News Radio 1060” slips by one-tenth to 5.1 but continues in eighth-place (6+). In four consecutive down or flat trends (6.0 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 4.5, 6+), KYW was -1.5. An increase of nine-tenths in March (5.1 – 6.0, 6+) gave “News Radio 1060” its strongest 6+-showing in three years (6.1, March 2015), but it then surrendered one full-share in April. An August increase of one-half share by WHYY discontinued three successive declines for an overall -1.1 (4.4 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.3, 6+), but the public news/talk outlet drops one-tenth in September (3.8 – 3.7, 6+) and stays at #10.
Philadelphia Music Formats – Not only does iHeartMedia CHR WIOQ jump from #13 to #11 with a one-half share increase to 3.5 (6+), “Q-102 Philly’s #1 Hit Music Station” applies the brakes to four straight decreases that accounted for a collective -.8 (3.8 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.2 – 3.0, 6+). Over and above racking up its third improvement in a row for a +1.9 (5.8 – 6.4 – 7.3 – 7.7, 6+), co-owned WDAS-FM marches from second to first. August’s 7.3 marked the first time “Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks” reached the seven-share level (6+) since September 2017’s 7.1. Immediately prior to a loss of one-half share in June, WDAS-FM was an overall +.8 in three straight positive spikes (5.5 – 5.8 – 6.0 – 6.3, 6+). Ousted from the top spot and shifting to second is Entercom classic hits-oldies WOGL “98.1 – Nobody Plays More 80s,” which is a combined -1.2 in August and September (8.2 – 7.5 – 7.0, 6+). This comes immediately after six straight gains for a combined +2.9 (5.3 – 6.3 – 6.9 – 7.0 – 7.2 – 7.7 – 8.2, 6+). July’s 8.2 represents its highest-ever 6+-stat in the PPM-era. When WOGL reached #1 in that sweep, it was the first time the station occupied that spot since August 2017. In five straight sweeps without a loss (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia alternative WRFF gained a collective four-tenths, but “Radio 104.5 Philadelphia’s Alternative” falters by six-tenths to 3.2 (6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #12). Unchanged at #4, WBEB “Today’s 101.1 More FM” is a collective -2.2 in three consecutive decreases (8.5 – 7.8 – 6.5 – 6.3, 6+). WBEB had been on top from March through June but was dislodged from the top spot in July. In “Holiday” 2017, WBEB achieved its most potent 6+-share since 17.9 in “Holiday” 2016. Entercom is now operating WBEB under a Time Brokerage Agreement (TBA), until it officially closes on its $57.5 million purchase of the Jerry Lee Radio adult contemporary outlet.
Long Island
Spoken-Word Formats – In three straight down or flat trends (3.1 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR “710 The Voice of New York” was a collective -1.3, but the key station of the New York Mets recaptures one full-share (2.8, 6+) and rockets back into the top twenty (#22 to #13). Before surrendering three-tenths in March, WOR was an overall +.8 in three straight gains (2.0 – 2.1 – 2.6 – 2.8, 6+). Cumulus Media news/talk WABC adds two-tenths to 1.5 (#23). Its +.1 in August stopped four consecutive down or flat moves that accounted for a loss of three-tenths (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+). Despite dropping two-tenths (5.2 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom’s WFAN repeats at #1. August’s 5.2 is its strongest 6+-showing in Long Island since November 2017’s 5.9. “Sports Radio” was -1.1 in February; a collective +1.8 in April and May (2.9 – 4.0 – 4.7, 6+); -.5 in June; and the New York Yankees’ flagship was +.7 in July. WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is off seven-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (2.3 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.6 – 1.6, #22, 6+), immediately after five consecutive upticks for a +1.2 (1.1 – 1.2 – 1.3 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+). Stuck on 2.5 (6+) in June, July, and August, WCBS-AM adds two-tenths to 2.7 (#15 to #14, 6+). The Entercom all-news operation gained two-tenths in January, halting four straight down or flat trends for an overall loss of one full-share (3.8 – 3.7 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+). It is tied with co-owned and similarly-formatted WINS (2.8 – 2.7, -.1, #13 to #14, 6+). Prior to the September sweep, WINS showed a month-to-month fluctuation of three-tenths four straight times: +.3 (May); -.3 (June); -.3 (July); and +.3 (August). Checking in at #19, WNYC Broadcasting Foundation news/talk WNYC-FM is trending 1.6 – 1.9 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 2.0 (February 2018 – September 2018, 6+).
Long Island Music Formats – It remains tight at the top, as the first six Nassau-Suffolk September 2018 finishers are separated by seven-tenths of a share. Despite dropping four-tenths (5.1 – 4.7, 6+), Connoisseur Media hot AC WALK-FM remains in the runner-up slot. “Real Variety 97.5” was ousted from the penthouse in July after nine straight months there. Its +.1 in August halted seven successive sweeps without an increase for an overall -7.6 (12.6 – 7.4 – 7.4 – 7.0 – 6.1 – 5.8 – 5.1 – 5.0, 6+). A one-half share decline (2.6 – 2.1, 6+) sends Entercom’s similarly-programmed WNEW “New 102.7” from #14 to #18. One-tenth behind is its NYC format rival – Cumulus Media’s WPLJ “New York’s 95.5 PLJ” (2.2 – 2.0, -.2, #18 to #19, 6+). Mirroring WALK-FM’s (6+) August – September 5.1 – 4.7 profile and thus part of the four-way tie at #2 is its classic hits-oldies sibling WBZO “103.1 Max FM,” which gained one-half share in August (4.6 – 5.1, 6+). In five straight down or flat trends, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WCBS-FM was a collective -1.2 (4.9 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+), but “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” regains one full-share in August and September (3.7 – 4.6 – 4.7, 6+). It moves from #5 to that aforementioned four-way logjam at #2. Included in that scrum as well is iHeartMedia New York City CHR WHTZ “Z-100,” which is flat or down slightly for the fifth straight time for a collective loss of four-tenths (5.1 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+) yet actually moves up from #4. Off one-tenth (2.5 – 2.4, 6+), Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” (#15 to #16) is within 2.0 – 2.9 territory (6+) for the 47th consecutive ratings period.
Riverside
Spoken-Word Formats – Immediately after dropping four-tenths in August to 1.3 (6+), San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR regains one-tenth (1.4, #13 to #12, 6+). KVCR nearly doubled its 6+-stat in June and July (.9 – 1.1 – 1.7, 6+). In advance of the February sweep, KVCR was +.4 via three minor upticks in a row (.9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.3, 6+). Without an increase for the fourth Inland Empire sweep in succession (.5 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .3, 6+), Pasadena City College news/talk KPCC “The Voice of Southern California” manages to climb from #19 to #17. It is tied with iHeartMedia news talk KKDD “1290 News Talk IE,” which after
debuting in July with a .2 (6+), gained one-tenth in August (.3, 6+) and is flat in September (.3, 6+). Co-owned KPWK “Fox Sports Radio 1350 AM” (formerly KUBE) disappeared from print in June; resurfaced in July with a .2 (6+); dropped one-tenth to .1 (6+) in August; and adds one-tenth in September (.2, #21, 6+). Los Angeles Angels-owned (LAA 1, LLC)/similarly-formatted KLAA “Angels Radio AM 830” is unlisted for the eighth month in a row.
Riverside Music Formats – In an absolute runaway, the honors for largest (6+) August 2018 – September 2018 gain by any station in the 12 PPM-markets noted here goes to Entravision’s KLYY “Jose” (7.4 – 9.9, +2.5, 6+). Not only that, “Jose” finishes first for the fourth successive sweep and is +5.3 in five straight positive spikes (4.6 – 6.4 – 6.5 – 6.9 – 7.4 – 9.9, 6+). This follows five sweeps in succession without an increase for an overall -3.0 (7.6 – 7.3 – 5.8 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+). June 2018 marked the first time “Jose” was in the lead position since “Holiday” 2017 when it scored a 7.3 (6+). The last time KLYY reached the nine-share level (6+) was in February 2017 (9.2). Continuing in the runner-up slot, Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA is a collective +.9 in three successive monthlies without a loss (6.3 – 6.6 – 7.2 – 7.2, 6+). Its +.3 in July ended four downward trends in succession that generated a -2.1 (8.4 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.5 – 6.3, 6+). In four straight sweeps without a loss (2.5 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.8, 6+), LC Media urban-rhythmic oldies KQIE is a collective +1.3 as “Old School 104.7” carries on at #6. Following four straight Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario decreases for an overall -1.8 (5.3 – 4.9 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” posts a +.6 to 4.1 (6+) and is steady at #5. A collective +1.5 in June and July (3.4 – 4.1 – 4.9), iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KGGI relinquished 80% of that increase in August (3.7, -1.2, 6+); however, “99.1 Riverside’s Hottest Hit Music” answers with a +.5 in September to 4.2 and continues in fourth-place. Improving by one-half share as well is All-Pro Broadcasting adult contemporary KATY “101.3 The Mix” (1.1, #17 – #14, 6+), which had notched a .6 in four of the last five sweeps (.6 – .6 – .7. – .6 – .6, 6+). In three consecutive losses, Entercom country outlet KFRG was -1.5 (5.9 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.4, 6+), but “K-Frog” picks up one-tenth to 4.5 and carries on at #3. When KFRG sputtered by four-tenths in June, it snapped at four a consecutive string of increases that netted an overall +1.3 (4.6 – 4.9 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 5.9, 6+). Faltering by six-tenths each are Anaheim Broadcasting’s KCAL-FM “96.7 Rocks” (ninth to tenth, 6+), which is -1.0 in four straight sweeps without an increase (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 1.8, 6+) and Lazer Licenses’ Spanish adult hits KCAL-AM “La Mexicana 1410” (.7 – .1, #16 to #23, 6+). Meanwhile, Lazer Broadcasting regional Mexican KXSB “Radio Lazer” is without a gain for the fifth straight month for a collective -.6 (.7 – .6 – .6 – .4 – .3 – .1, #21 to #23, 6+). Entering the August sweep, iHeartMedia Spanish adult hits KFOO recorded a .3 (6+) in three of the previous four sweeps (.3 – .3 – .5 – .3, 6+). “La Preciosa 1440 AM” erupted with a +.7 to 1.0 (6+), only to disappear from print in September.
San Jose
Spoken-Word Formats – This is the third increase in a row for Cumulus Media’s KGO for a cumulative +1.1 (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 2.8, #16 to #15, 6+). July’s increase stopped four successive downward sweeps for a -1.4 (3.1 – 2.9 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+). Co-owned news/talk KSFO, however, relinquishes exactly half of its 6+-share (-1.1) in three consecutive downward moves (2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.1, #21 to #27, 6+). Prior to July, KSFO was without a loss the previous five months for an overall +1.0 (1.2 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+). Immediately after registering a +.8 to halt three decreases in
succession that accounted for a cumulative -1.0 (4.6 – 4.3 – 3.9 – 3.6, 6+), sports talk cluster-mate KNBR “The Sports Leader” spirals by one full-share (4.4 – 3.4, seventh to tenth, 6+). The San Francisco Giants flagship posted a +1.6 in April, as it reached the four-share level in San Jose (6+) for the first time since May 2017’s 4.2. The six most recent San Jose topline stats for Entercom sports talk/Oakland A’s flagship KGMZ “95.7 The Game” are 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.4 – unlisted – .6 – .8 (6+). Even though it loses the one-tenth it gained in August (6.4 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+), all-news sibling KCBS-AM remains in second-place. Its -.8 in July curtailed four consecutive up or flat trends that netted +1.4 (5.8 – 5.8 – 6.3 – 6.4 – 7.2, 6+) and its strongest 6+ (San Jose) showing since November 2017 (7.2, as well). Bouncing back from July and August’s -1.6 (7.5 – 6.5 – 5.9, 6+) with a +.3 to 6.2 (6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED progresses from sixth to fourth. Between January 2018 – June 2018, KQED and KCBS-AM finished first and second, respectively. A June increase of six-tenths by KQED followed a combined -1.9 in April and May (8.8 – 8.2 – 6.9, 6+); it was +1.0 in January.
San Jose Music Formats – As a result of three upticks in succession (1.7 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 3.4, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KOSF “iHeart80s @ 103.7” has doubled its 6+-share (+1.7) and vaults into the top ten (#18 to #10). A July gain of seven-tenths by adult contemporary cluster-mate KISQ interrupted four straight negative trends that produced a loss of nine-tenths (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.0 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+). In August, “98.1 The Breeze” surrendered eight-tenths, but it recaptures seven-tenths in September (3.5 – 4.2, ninth to seventh, 6+). Erasing in full August’s -.5 with a September +.6 (3.0 – 2.5 – 3.1, 6+), Univision Radio regional Mexican KSOL “Que Buena” advances from #15 to #13. Enjoying an increase of six-tenths as well are University of Southern California classical KDFC (1.8 – 2.4, #19, 6+) and Entercom urban AC KBLX (1.2 – 1.8, #22, 6+). KBLX cluster-mate, KUFX “98.5 K-Fox The South Bay’s Classic Rock,” is a collective +1.7 in three increases in a row (5.2 – 6.7 – 6.8 – 6.9, 6+) and is #1 for the third straight month. As the result of six consecutive sweeps without a loss (1.9 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.7, 6+), Cumulus Media triple A KFOG was up eight-tenths, but has that increase wiped out in full (1.9, -.8, 6+) and drifts from the top twenty (#13 to #21). After recording five gains in a row for an overall +2.1 (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 5.1 – 6.1, 6+), Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “San Jose Hot Country 95.3” returns one-third of that increase (5.4, -.7, fifth to sixth, 6+). Alpha Media hot AC KEZR “Mix 106 Today’s Best Music,” which had been +.9 in three straight up or flat trends (4.0 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 4.9, 6+), is now -.9 in August and September (4.9 – 4.3 – 4.0, flat at #8, 6+).
Middlesex
Spoken-Word Formats – There is more good news for Townsquare Media news/talker WKXW “New Jersey 101.5,” which is #1 for the third month in a row and +2.0 in four straight increases (6.0 – 6.4 – 6.8 – 7.1 – 8.0, 6+). Moreover, this 
(8.0) is its best 6+-share since March (8.1). “New Jersey 101.5” was on top four ratings periods in succession before segueing to #2 in May. WKXW was a combined -2.1 in April and May (8.1 – 7.3 – 6.0, 6+) and posted a +.9 in January to advance from second to first with its strongest 6+-stat since April 2016’s 8.5. Up or flat for the third time in a row for a +.6 (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WOR returns to the top twenty (#22 to #20). The New York Mets flagship was off a collective six-tenths in May and June (2.3 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+). The January – September 6+ topline for Cumulus Media news/talk WABC (flat at #25) is: 1.5 – 1.6 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.5. Remaining at #10, Entercom sports talk and Yankees’ key station WFAN has its fourth Middlesex-Somerset-Union decrease in a row for a -.9 (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+). June’s one-tenth setback halted three straight positive spikes that netted a +1.1 (3.3 – 3.4 – 4.1 – 4.4, 6+). Sports talk WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” is up eight-tenths via three positive spikes in a row (1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.5, #20 – #18, 6+). The March through September topline for Entercom all-news WCBS-AM (#22) is 2.9 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.5 – unlisted – 1.7 – 1.9 (6+). Stuck on 1.1 (6+) in March and April, all-news sibling WINS has now recorded a 1.7 (#23 to #24, 6+) for the fifth straight time. Tied with WCBS-AM at #22 is WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM, which drops two-tenths to 1.9 (6+). An August gain of three-tenths halted five straight losses (3.4 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+) that accounted for a nearly 50% erosion of its 6+ share (-1.6).
Middlesex Music Formats – Off seven-tenths in July and August (5.1 – 4.8 – 4.4, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WHTZ “Z-100” roars back with a +1.0 to 5.4 (fifth to second, 6+). Even though it notches its third increase in succession for an overall +.6 (4.1 – 4.2 – 4.5 – 4.7, 6+), classic rock cluster-mate WAXQ “Q-104.3” backslides from fourth to fifth. Faltering by eight-tenths (6.0 – 5.2, 6+), Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 #1 For R&B” slips from second to third. Its rhythmic CHR sibling – WQHT “Hot 97” – wipes out August’s +.3 with an August -.5 (3.8 – 4.1 – 3.6, sixth to eighth, 6+). Prior to August, “Hot” was within three-share range (6+) in each of the prior 13 sweeps. Posting identical 3.5 – 3.2 (-.3, #12 to #14, 6+) profiles are Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3 – Todays Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites,” which was down one-half share in August; Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ “La Mega 97.9,” down for the third straight time (3.9 – 3.8 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+); and iHeartMedia urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1.” Despite being down for the fifth consecutive month for an overall -1.4 (4.8 – 4.6 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+), Pillar of Fire contemporary Christian WAWZ “Star 99.1” advances from #12 to #11.
ESPN’s Three-Pronged Podcast Bucket List
By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS
LOS ANGELES — Relatively speaking, it wasn’t all that long ago when seemingly every on-air talent simply had to have his or her own personal website.
Nowadays, proliferation of the podcast appears to be riding a substantial wave of popularity, although the fairly elementary form of communication has actually been with us for well over a decade.
As is the case with a business or private website, a podcast’s practicality will ultimately rest upon its ability to generate revenue – or at the very minimum – underscore one’s brand.
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
WSJ: Liberty Still Interested in iHeartMedia. After taking its offer of $1.2 billion for 40% of iHeartMedia off the table a couple of weeks ago, the Wall Street Journal is reporting that now Liberty Media is “working on revamping its original offer.” The story goes on to say that Liberty’s return to the table could signal a bidding war between it
and private equity firm Silver Lake. Last week, the New York Post reported that Silver Lake is in talks with iHM. The Wall Street Journal story says Silver Lake has made an offer for 20% of the reorganized 
iHeart, though a dollar figure is not being reported. Both Liberty – owner of a controlling interest in SiriusXM and a minority interest in Pandora – and Silver Lake are also said to be in talks with iHeartMedia creditors Franklin Advisors Inc. and Pacific Investment Management Co., both of which are expected to control the post-reorganization iHeartMedia. For Liberty, the obvious synergies make it an attractive suitor with iHeart itself stating in a recent filing that Liberty’s original offer didn’t take into account some $500 million in annual synergies.
TALKERS News Notes. A Louisburg, Kansas woman prevailed at the U.S. Supreme Court when it ruled a lower court should not have dismissed her civil rights complaint
against local police officers who ordered her to stop praying in her own home. The case developed after neighbors called police on Mary Anne Sause because she was listening to Michael Savage too loudly. She claims police didn’t tell her why they were there, and she became frightened and asked to pray. She says the officers then attempted to stop her from praying. Read the account in The Hutchinson News here…..At the Podcast 
Movement event in Philadelphia on July 24, Edison Research will present the results of its latest podcasting study. Titled, “Podcasting’s Next Frontier: 100 Million Listeners,” the address promises to “provide a research-based road map for the podcasting industry to grow audience and increase exposure to podcasts.” It will provide “attendees with a look at the tens of millions of Americans who say they know what podcasting is but haven’t (yet) become regular listeners to the medium.”…..Fort Myers rock outlet WRXK “96 K-Rock” drops the Bubba the Love Sponge program from the morning drive daypart. The Beasley Media Group station had Bubba’s show in morning drive there for the past 10 years and says an
announcement about the new morning show is forthcoming. Beasley’s decision comes just days after Bubba Clem and Nielsen settled their lawsuits against each other…..Entercom Atlanta inks a deal with Georgia State University for sports talk WZGC “92.9 The Game” and sister news/talk WAOK to broadcast the school’s football and men’s and women’s 
basketball games, beginning with the 2018-19 season. Entercom Atlanta SVP and market manager Rick Caffey says, “Expanding our sports content is an important part of our strategy to remain the leaders in sports radio. We remain strong advocates of our local community and of delivering quality content to our city and beyond. This agreement with Georgia State University is another step in that direction and we look forward to an exciting season with an excellent sports program.” As part of the partnership, “92.9 The Game” will also host weekly interviews with Georgia State football coach Shawn Elliott on “Mornings with John and Hugh.” Men’s basketball coach Ron Hunter will join “Dukes and Bell” for a weekly interview.
TALKERS Continues Posting Videos Today of the Recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! Convention – Today’s Post: Special Luncheon Greetings by WNYM (AM 970 The Answer), New York Morning Host Joe Piscopo and “Humanitarian of the Year” Award Presentation to the Late Matt Patrick. Today (7/10), TALKERS magazine continues posting individual events from the recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! convention held in New York City on June 8. Each business day, another session will be posted in the order that they originally took place. Today’s 11th installment is a video of convention luncheon greetings by WNYM (970 AM The Answer), New York morning host Joe Piscopo with an introduction by Salem SVP Phil Boyce; and the posthumous presentation of the “Humanitarian of the Year” award to the late Texas and Ohio radio talk show host Matt Patrick by Michael Harrison with an acceptance by his widow and show producer, Paula Ryan. Already posted: the panel discussion titled “Adding the Video Component to Talk Radio” moderated by Livestream head of news, Clayton Rose and featuring panelists Krantz Media Group CEO, Gary Krantz and KTRS, St Louis host, McGraw Milhaven; the panel discussion titled “Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2018” moderated by TALKERS VP/executive editor, Kevin Casey; introduced by Crossover Media Group managing member, Ron Hartenbaum; and featuring panelists Asa RX host, Asa; Bold Gold Media Group CEO, Vince Benedetto; Howie Carr Radio Network president, Kathy Carr; Westwood One president, Suzanne Grimes; WBAL, Baltimore president/GM, Cary Pahigian; and KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz owner, Michael Zwerling. Other videos already posted include the special presentation by Amplifi Media CEO, Steven Goldstein titled “Radio Broadcasters and Smart Speakers with an introduction by GCN personality, Dr. Daliah Wachs ; a special presentation by PodcastOne chairman and CEO, Norm Pattiz titled “Radio Broadcasters and Podcasting” with an introduction by Voice of America and National Public Radio anchor/reporter, Lori Lundin; a special presentation by WFAN personality, Mike Francesa titled “Sports Talk’s Role in Media and Popular Culture” with an introduction by author and former radio producer, Bernadette Duncan; Salem SVP, Phil Boyce’s address titled “What Has Donald Trump Done to Talk Radio?”; the fireside chat between TALKERS publisher, Michael Harrison and Beasley Media Group CEO, Caroline Beasley including Harrison’s presentation of the 2018 “Woman of the Year” award to Beasley; Harrison’s fireside chat with FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel mega-star, Brian Kilmeade with an introduction by Westwood One syndicated host, Walter Sterling and special remarks by Sean Hannity; opening remarks by the convention’s co-emcees, TalkersRadio GM, David Bernstein and Good Day Networks/DJV Show CEO/host, Doug Stephan; KGO, San Francisco host, Ethan Bearman delivering the event’s welcoming remarks and Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host, Brad Shepard introduction of Bearman. Also posted: the presentation of the Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech (“Freedom of Speech Award”) by TALKERS managing editor, Mike Kinosian to SiriusXM Satellite Radio host, book publisher, Hunter College professor, and former New York Daily News/Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, Karen Hunter. To view the page, please click here.
Former KSTP, Minneapolis Talk Host Barbara Carlson Dies at 80. Twin Cities talk
radio fans are remembering Barbara Carlson, the former KSTP-AM, Minneapolis talk show host who died yesterday (7/9) at age 80 after a battle with lung cancer. Carlson was a two-term Minneapolis city councilor during the 1980s. Prior to that, she was married for more than 10 years to former Minnesota Republican Governor Arne Carlson. She hosted her talk show at KSTP from 1990 to 2002. See the Twin Cities Pioneer Press obit here.
Trump Supreme Court Nomination, Illegal Immigration Policy-Judge Rejects Trump Request, Trump-Russia Investigation/Impending Putin Meeting, U.S.-China Trade War, U.K Brexit Complications, Thailand Cave Rescues, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/9). The anticipation and announcement of Brett Kavanaugh as nominee for Supreme Court Justice; the Trump administration’s illegal immigration policies and a federal judge’s rejection of administration’s bid to modify child detention policy; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and the planned meeting between President Trump and Vladimir Putin; new tariffs and concerns over a U.S.-China trade war; the challenges facing British Prime Minister Theresa May in executing the British exit from the EU; the rescue of the boys’ soccer team from flooded caves in Thailand; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programmer and air personality Eliseo “Short-E” Cierra joins iHeartMedia’s Fort Myers station group to serve as program director for hip hop WBTT “105.5 The Beat” and hot AC WZJZ “Y100.1.” He was most recently music director and an air personality at Entercom’s hip hop KSFM, Sacramento. iHeartMedia Fort Myers SVP of programming Louis Kaplan states, “I’m thrilled to welcome Short-E to iHeartMedia Fort Myers. He genuinely understands our market and brings adept format experience and lively energy to our team. He’ll be leading two of our most popular brands, ‘105.5 The Beat,’ which has been a huge success for over 15 years, and ‘Y100,’ the area’s home for the Elvis Duran show, and I know his vast industry knowledge and creativity will take our stations to even higher levels.”…..iHeartMedia
Los Angeles names Tamo Sein midday personality at alternative KYSR “ALT 98.7,” effective July 16. KYSR program director Lisa Worden says, “We believe the ‘ALT 98.7’ audience will immediately take to Tamo’s relatable and down-to-earth approach. Plus, she loves alternative music and is a food and wine enthusiast! She’ll fit right in with LA.” Sein comes to LA from iHeartMedia Charlotte where she was APD and music director at alternative WEND “105.5 The End.”.….Hubbard Radio’s country WIL-FM, St. Louis officially welcomed Mason and Remy to their new gig as afternoon drive team on the station. They take over for Stacey and Jonah, who move over to the company’s adult hits WARH “106.5 The Arch” for afternoons. The changes took effect yesterday (7/9)…..S-R Broadcasting flips KRKO-AM/K237GN from sports talk to classic hits. General manager Chuck Maylin says the new station is “custom designed to meet the musical appetites of local listeners, with a strong focus on information and activities of importance and interest in the greater Snohomish County area.”
Monday, July 9, 2018
Nielsen and Bubba The Love Sponge Settle $1 Million Suit. The trial was scheduled to begin on July 23 after more than two-and-a-half years of preparation and paying lawyers, but on Friday afternoon (7/6), a settlement was announced and from what
we’ve learned, Nielsen came out on top. If you remember, Nielsen sued Bubba Clem for $1 million claiming that his attempts to manipulate the PPM survey in the Tampa market had caused damage to its reputation and the PPM methodology. Bubba countersued claiming, among other things, that 
Nielsen and competitor Cox Media Group conspired against him. The terms of the settlement are confidential, but in a press release from Nielsen, the company says Bubba will make a cash payment to Nielsen (that amount will likely never be known) and a number of statements from both sides were made public. Bubba’s statement includes the following: “I understand how important it is to the radio industry that the Nielsen ratings be free from bias and I deeply regret interfering with Nielsen’s collection of listening data.” He promises never to do it again and, if he does, “any future infractions by Clem will be punishable by a court-ordered injunction and additional financial damages payable to Nielsen.” One has to wonder what changed for Bubba. He had numerous attempts to settle via mediation. The discovery process should have indicated to him and his lawyers that Nielsen’s case had more merit than his criticism of Nielsen’s methodology and his theory of a conspiracy between Nielsen and Cox. It seems clear the big winners here were the lawyers who notched a lot of billable hours.
TALKERS Continues Posting Videos Today of the Recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! Convention – Today’s Post: Panel Discussion Titled Adding the Video Component to Talk Radio. Today (7/9), TALKERS magazine continues posting individual events from the recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! convention held in New York City on June 8. Each business day, another session will be posted in the order that they originally took place. Today’s 10th installment is the panel discussion titled “Adding the Video Component to Talk Radio” moderated by Livestream head of news, Clayton Rose and featuring panelists Krantz Media Group CEO, Gary Krantz and KTRS, St Louis host, McGraw Milhaven. Already posted: the panel discussion titled “Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2018” moderated by TALKERS VP/executive editor, Kevin Casey; introduced by Crossover Media Group managing member, Ron Hartenbaum; and featuring panelists Asa RX host, Asa; Bold Gold Media Group CEO, Vince Benedetto; Howie Carr Radio Network president, Kathy Carr; Westwood One president, Suzanne Grimes; WBAL, Baltimore president/GM, Cary Pahigian; and KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz owner, Michael Zwerling. Other videos already posted include the special presentation by Amplifi Media CEO, Steven Goldstein titled “Radio Broadcasters and Smart Speakers with an introduction by GCN personality, Dr. Daliah Wachs ; a special presentation by PodcastOne chairman and CEO, Norm Pattiz titled “Radio Broadcasters and Podcasting” with an introduction by Voice of America and National Public Radio anchor/reporter, Lori Lundin; a special presentation by WFAN personality, Mike Francesa titled “Sports Talk’s Role in Media and Popular Culture” with an introduction by author and former radio producer, Bernadette Duncan; Salem SVP, Phil Boyce’s address titled “What Has Donald Trump Done to Talk Radio?”; the fireside chat between TALKERS publisher, Michael Harrison and Beasley Media Group CEO, Caroline Beasley including Harrison’s presentation of the 2018 “Woman of the Year” award to Beasley; Harrison’s fireside chat with FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel mega-star, Brian Kilmeade with an introduction by Westwood One syndicated host, Walter Sterling and special remarks by Sean Hannity; opening remarks by the convention’s co-emcees, TalkersRadio GM, David Bernstein and Good Day Networks/DJV Show CEO/host, Doug Stephan; KGO, San Francisco host, Ethan Bearman delivering the event’s welcoming remarks and Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host, Brad Shepard introduction of Bearman. Also posted: the presentation of the Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech (“Freedom of Speech Award”) by TALKERS managing editor, Mike Kinosian to SiriusXM Satellite Radio host, book publisher, Hunter College professor, and former New York Daily News/Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, Karen Hunter. To view the page, please click here.
Attorneys Counter Arguments Against Tribune Merger in FCC Filing. The proposed acquisition of Tribune Media by Sinclair Broadcast Group is almost entirely about the merger of two television companies – except for Tribune’s lone radio property: news/talk WGN-AM, Chicago. Responding to those who’ve argued that this acquisition
would put too many local television stations under the control of Sinclair, lawyers for both companies write in a petition to the FCC that “contrary to Petitioners’ rhetoric, the 
sky is not falling. Sinclair’s acquisition of Tribune will not radically disrupt the media marketplace or impede viewers’ access to quality local news, nor will it violate any FCC rules or policies.” They argue – as have many radio operators seeking de-regulation of their industry – that the modern media landscape makes concerns about this level of ownership outdated. “Petitioners ask the Commission to make decisions based on Petitioners’ subjective disagreement with content that airs on Sinclair stations and to review this transaction as if it took place in a time when there were seven TV channels and phones were simply used to call someone to say hello, rather than to watch a full-length movie or live newscast. But today there are hundreds of TV channels, OTT video services are proliferating and being subscribed to by tens of millions of households, and the lines between telephone companies, internet providers, MVPDs, programmers and broadcasters have long since disappeared.” Sinclair currently operates just three radio stations – in the Seattle market: all-news KOMO-AM/FM, news talk KVI, and hot AC KPLZ.
TALKERS News Notes. Longtime all-news KYW, Philadelphia director of news and programming Steve Butler is leaving the Entercom station. In a memo to staffers,
Butler assures them that he’s not being forced out. “This is really, really my decision, and a really tough one.” Butler says he wants to enjoy doing things he’s always wanted to explore while still in good health. Butler says he’ll stay on until Entercom Philly market manager David Yadgaroff finds his successor…..New York City sports talk personality and radio voice of the 
New York Yankees Michael Kay is being inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Association’s Hall of Fame. Kay hosts the afternoon drive show on ESPN-owned WEPN, New York. He’ll be honored on October 18 along with the rest of the class of 2018. Kay states, “I am extremely humbled by this honor. To stand alongside the others who have been inducted to this prestigious hall is somewhat surreal for a kid from the Bronx who started out in this business as a newspaper man. I thank those who voted for me; it is greatly appreciated.”…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago afternoon drive traffic reporter Veronica Carter has exited the Entercom all-newser in order to move back to California. Carter has been with the station for the past 12 years. She worked at crosstown WGN-AM before that. Her Facebook message states: “My kids have grown up and now I have zero obligations, so I’m going to do what I want for the next two or three decades! That includes spending a lot of time outdoors, visiting my mother, sisters and other family members, and of course chillaxing on the beach!”…..Comic and SiriusXM personality Dean Obeidallah has won a judgement against neo-Nazi Andrew Anglin and his website The Daily Stormer. The judgement was declared by a federal court clerk in Columbus, Ohio, but Anglin was not present in court – he’s been avoiding the matter. Numerous attempts to personally serve Anglin were unsuccessful. The issue is that Anglin posted a phony story on the website that stated Obeidallah admitted to being the mastermind behind the terrorist attack at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, UK last year.
Herskovitz: Commercial Cycles. Radio sales pro Al Herskovitz writes today about some of the trends in commercial styles and how they’ve changed and, in some case, come full circle. The full-sing spot was at one time very common. Iconic jingles were credited with creating and enforcing brand loyalty for many products over the years. In some current instances, creative is returning to the jingle with some very effective results. Read Herskovitz’s column here.
Confer Radio Talent Institute Opens at Bloomsburg University. This is the sixth annual Confer Radio Talent Institute in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters and it’s taking place at Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg
Pennsylvania beginning today (7/9). Sessions over the 10-day institute cover almost every aspect of radio – from sales to on-air in music radio, sports, news, production, promotions, digital, social media, and engineering. Twenty-two students have been accepted from eight universities, including: Susquehanna University, Clarion University, Temple, Stockton, Alvernia University, Pace University, and California University of Pennsylvania, as well as Bloomsburg University. Pictured here is Kirby Confer addressing some of the students.
Georgia Beasley Named RAB’s Professional Development Manager; Kim Johnson Promoted to Director of Sales. The Radio Advertising Bureau announces that Georgia Beasley has been named professional development manager. In this role,
Beasley will work closely with SVP professional development Jeff Schmidt on the overall training curriculum offered at the RAB. This includes the Rising Through the Ranks program – dedicated to the support and 
advancement of women in radio sales management positions – of which Georgia herself is a graduate. Beasley was most recently director of TopicPulse Strategic Initiatives at Futuri Media. She has also held various sales management positions at Beasley Media Group. At the same time, RAB says Kim Johnson has been promoted to the director of sales position. Prior to this role, she worked with the RAB’s CRM tool as an account development manager. Johnson will be responsible for the sales of the entire suite of RAB’s professional development training courses.
Illegal Immigration Policy, Trump Supreme Court Nominee, Trump-Russia Investigation, Thailand Cave Rescues, Tariffs and Trade War Concerns, North Korea Nuclear Program, MLB and World Cup Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The treatment of families in enforcing illegal immigration laws; speculation about President Trump’s nominee for the Supreme Court and questions about the fate of Roe v Wade; special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia agents; the rescue of five of the dozen boys trapped in underwater caves in Thailand; Trump’s tariffs and concerns about the effects of a trade war; suggestions that North Korea is continuing its nuclear weapons program despite the recent Trump-Kim Jong Un summit; Major League Baseball action; and World Cup soccer were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Los Angeles-based morning drive urban contemporary star Big Boy is heading to the small screen. iHeartMedia and Fuse Media announce they will begin televising the KRRL “Real 92.3”-based, nationally syndicated “Big Boy’s Neighborhood” program on television’s Fuse Music
channel beginning July 30. The program features Big Boy and castmates Natalia Perez, Louie G, Ayyde, and DJ VickOne. iHeartMedia president of entertainment enterprises John Sykes says, “This new partnership with Fuse is the continuation of an exciting trend of our iconic iHeartRadio personalities extending their reach to television. Big Boy is a legend in music and this is the next logical step as he extends his brand.”…..At Urban One’s WKYS, Washington, DC, Angie Ange is named new host of the morning drive show, effective July 16. Ange has been hosting the evening show on the station. In mornings, she’ll be joined by Déja Perez and DJ Money. Ange says, “Growing up I would have fun listening to Tom Joyner, Russ Parr, and Donnie Simpson. To reach this height in my career and be in a position to give that same energy while also inspiring and enlightening our listeners as they start their day is the opportunity of a lifetime.”…..Impact 
Radio Group announces the debut of the new “Joey & Lauren” (pictured at left) morning show on hot AC KZMG, Boise “MY 102.7.” Station program director James Garner says, “After an extensive nationwide search for a quality morning show, my team and I found ourselves right back in the Treasure Valley with Joey and Lauren Jenkins…The easiest option would have been to select a cookie-cutter, ready-made program, but we decided to create a new show from the ground up, with genuine personalities that our listeners can relate to. I am excited to present this fun and unique local morning show to our listeners in the Treasure Valley.”…..In Cincinnati, Tropikana joins Radio One’s cluster as music director for hip hop WIZF “101.1 The Wiz.” Operations manager Bill Black says, “Tropikana is an important part of the puzzle that we are building at ‘The Wiz!’ I am very excited about what she will bring to The Wiz’s team.”
Thursday, May 24, 2018
‘Sports Radio 610’ in Houston Adds New Talent to Lineup. The Entercom sports talk station announces its new lineup that includes new voices Paul Gallant, Fred Davis, and Landry Locker. Gallant joins the AM drive “Mad
Radio” show with Mike Meltser and Seth Payne on KILT-AM. Fred Davis and Landry Locker are co-hosting the midday “In the Loop” show with John Lopez. The changes take effect on Tuesday (5/29). Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “‘SportsRadio 610’ has long been the sports leader in Houston and part of remaining on top is continuing to evolve with the needs of our audience. I’m excited about the energy that Paul will bring to mornings and Fred and Landry will bring to middays.”
PPM Analysis: MLB Flagships. As Garrett Morris’ fictional “Saturday Night Live” character Chico Escuela used to say, “Baseball been berry, berry good to me!” Stations that serve as flagships for MLB teams certainly hope that baseball will be good to them each season. Today, TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian presents the first PPM analysis of the 2018 baseball season that looks at 6+ numbers from Nielsen’s April PPM survey for those stations. Some of the stations that appear to have benefitted from the first month of the season compared to their March numbers include: Entercom’s news/talk KMOX, St. Louis (up 2.3 shares); Entercom’s KDKA-FM, Pittsburgh (up 2 shares); and Scripps’ WTMJ, Milwaukee (up 1.9 shares). See Kinosian’s full report here.
Redberg Rises to VP of Sales for iHeartMedia Twin Cities. Sales pro Michelle Redberg is promoted to vice president of sales for iHeartMedia’s Minneapolis market that includes news/talk KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk,”
sports talk KFXN-FM “K-Fan,” eight music brands, plus franchise partnerships with the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, and University of Minnesota Golden Gophers football, basketball and hockey. Vice president of sales for the Western Great Lakes Region Greg Alexander states, “Michelle is one of the bright stars of our company. She has a contemporary approach to leadership along with a compassion for our advertisers and an understanding of today’s marketing and business challenges. Michelle’s passion, skills, energy and drive made her an obvious choice to help lead our strong Twin Cities brands.”
Michael Young Exits Entercom Pittsburgh Market Manager Position. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that market manager Michael Young has exited the position at Entercom’s four-station cluster there that includes news/talk KDKA-AM and sports talk KDKA-FM. Young was manager of the cluster when it was owned by CBS RADIO and stayed in his position as Entercom assumed ownership.
iHeartMedia Appoints Mark Boudreaux New Orleans Market President. New Orleans native Mark Boudreaux assumes the market president position at iHeartMedia New Orleans, effective June 11. iHeartMedia operates
news/talk WRNO-FM and sports talk WODT, plus six music formats in the market. Boudreaux was most recently business development manager at South Central AV. iHM region president Eddie Martiny says, “Who better to run our iHeartMedia New Orleans market than a native New Orleanian? Mark has a proven track record in the Crescent City as a seller, sales manager and vice president of sales. We are excited to have Mark and his infectious personality leading iHeartMedia New Orleans.”
Saga Comminucations’ Warren Lada to Retire. Longtime Saga Communications executive Warren Lada is retiring from the company and his position as chief operating officer at the end of next month. Saga president and CEO Ed Christian comments, “Warren has been an integral part of Saga for the past 27 years and we will deeply miss his contributions to Saga and its radio stations across the US.” Prior to taking on the corporate role of COO, Lada was president and general manager for Saga’s WAQY-FM, Springfield “Rock 102.”
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk show “Free Talk Live” – led by principals Ian Freeman, Mark Edge, and Darryl W. Perry (pictured from l-r
at right) — announces a number of new affiliates for the program. WWMN-FM in Traverse City, Michigan and KUSG-AM in Guam add the program to their schedule and WTTN-AM, Columbus, Wisconsin joins the simulcast of existing progressive talk affiliate WRRD-AM, Waukesha…..Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “Sports Radio 99.9 The Fan” and WDNC-AM “620 the Ticket” in 
Raleigh are broadcasting live, play-by-play for all games of this year’s ACC Baseball Championship series that runs through this Sunday at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham. Vice president of programming Dennis Glasgow says, “It is our pleasure to bring as much live content as possible over the next five days with our ACC Baseball coverage to everyone in The Triangle. We have an excellent arsenal of announcers lined up to bring our listeners and baseball fans the very best play-by-play and analysis from the ACC Baseball Championship at DBAP.”…..cabana, the digital audio division of AdLarge Media, is expanding its podcast portfolio by adding the true crime genre with the podcast “Crime Junkie,” hosted by Ashley Flowers. “Crime Junkie” launched in December and, according to AdLarge, has been averaging 40,000 downloads per episode…..Tag Station announces that the
NextRadio smartphone app for listening to local FM stations is being launched for smartphone users in Mexico. Tag Station president Paul Brenner comments, “We’re thrilled that NextRadio is now available for use on both iOS and Android devices in Mexico. We want to empower all users to enjoy local FM radio without having their content restricted by geographic location or choice of device.”…..KXL, Portland news staffers Steve Leader and Rosemary Reynolds were recently honored with awards from the Associated Press. Leader is AM drive anchor at the Alpha Media station and Reynolds is a reporter. Leader received the Best Enterprise Reporting award for his series “Walk in the Hood,” a look at the way African American communities have changed in Portland through the eyes of two African Americans who grew up in Portland. Reynolds received the Best Public Service award for her series “Wanted: Foster Parents,” that addressed the 11,000 children in Oregon in need of foster care…..Pictured below is FOX Sports Radio nationally syndicated talk show host JT “The Brick” emceeing the 11th annual Coaches vs. Cancer Las Vegas Golf Classic. This was JT’s fifth year serving as emcee for the event that raised more than $1 million for the American Cancer Society.
Hobnobbing at The Gracies. Pictured above at the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards on Tuesday (5/22) at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles are: Sun Broadcast Group CEO Jason Bailey (left), Weiss Agency EVP and AWMF director Heather Cohen, and Kris Bailey.
Cool Job Opportunity for KNX Full Time Writer/Producer. Entercom’s all-news KNX, Los Angeles is looking for a fearless, aggressive, energetic, enthusiastic, and creative team player. The right candidate is a real show producer and not just a guest booker. Must have a strong rolodex, good news judgment and the ability to write quick, clear, compelling and concise scripts without the usual cliché’s or news speak. Must work and play well in a fast, high-pressure all-news environment. Intimate knowledge of socializing content in all platforms is a MUST. Prior major-market producing and news writing experience required. Strong multi-tasking and computer skills required. Familiarity with Southern California including politics, pop culture, lifestyle, etc. preferred. Must be available to work all hours, overnights, and weekends. Required to join the Writers Guild of America. For more information, please click here.
Trump-Russia Investigation, Status of North Korea Talks, U.S.-China Relations, New NFL Anthem Protest Rule, Parents Evict Son Case, Milwaukee Police Tase NBA Player, Iran Nuclear Deal, Primary Races, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/23). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the uncertain status of scheduled talks between President Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the state of relations between the U.S. and China after the latter is uninvited from joint military exercises; the NFL bans sideline anthem protests; the court case of the New York couple evicting their 30-year-old son; the Milwaukee police apologize after Bucks player Sterling Brown is tased during a parking violation incident; the aftermath of the U.S. pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal; Tuesday’s primary races in Georgia, Texas, and Kentucky; Major League Baseball action; and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. There’s news from Chicago as Windy City media maven Robert Feder writes today about legendary jock Dick Biondi’s official exit from Cumulus Media’s classic hits WLS-FM. Feder says that at some point Biondi’s status changed from inactive employee – Biondi was hospitalized in April of 2017 for an ailment – to former employee. Biondi had been hosting a weekend morning show on WLS-FM. Cumulus Chicago VP and market manager Marv Nyren told him Biondi’s employment with the station ended “months ago.”…..Robert Feder also reports that Entercom is promoting weekend and fill-in jock Richard Milne to full-time afternoon drive (4:00 pm to 8:00 pm) personality on triple A WXRT. The move bumps Jason Thomas to weekend and fill-in duties as well as host of Monday evening’s “The Big Beat” show…..Tomorrow (5.25), Entercom New York’s classic hits WCBS-FM 101.1, New York’s Greatest Hits is broadcasting the “Shannon in the Morning Summer Beach Blastoff” featuring “Scott Shannon & The Big Show” live from the boardwalk at Coney Island. Hosting the event will be Scott Shannon with Patty Steele, Sue Aller, John Elliot and Brad Blanks, with special performances by Taylor Dayne and Smash Mouth.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
EMF Acquires Entercom Stations in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Wilkes-Barre. After much speculation about which Los Angeles property Entercom would spin in order to close its pending merger with CBS RADIO, we have learned the answer: It is Entercom’s own classic rocker KSWD “100.3 The Sound,” which will be acquired by Educational Media Foundation. In addition to Los Angeles’
“Sound,” Rocklin (California)-based contemporary Christian broadcaster EMF is also obtaining Entercom stations in San Diego (KSOQ-FM, which simulcasts KSON-FM “New Country”) and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WGGI, which simulcasts 
WGGY “Today’s Best Country – Froggy”). This three-station deal marks the first required divestitures in the company’s mega union with CBS Radio. According to Entercom president and chief executive officer David Field, “We have made great progress toward the completion of our merger with CBS Radio and this agreement with EMF brings us one step closer to the finish line. We remain on-track to close the CBS Radio transaction later this year and confident in the value
-creating opportunities presented by this transformational combination.” Educational Media Foundation chief executive officer Mike Novak remarks, “We are particularly excited to see what God has in store for the people of Los Angeles, through our new station, ‘Positive & Encouraging K-Love at 100.3 FM.’ The people at Entercom have been a joy making this purchase possible.” Eight months ago, Entercom agreed to combine with CBS Radio in an all-stock transaction. After the deal, Entercom will own 240 stations; non-profit EMF currently owns/operates Christian music networks “K-Love” and “Air1,” as well as approximately 770 FM stations and translators. For the third time in the last six Nielsen Audio ratings sweeps, KSWD “The Sound” registers a 2.4 (PPM, August 2017, 6+) and finishes at #18; its 2.9 (6+) in May 2017 placed it at #11. Stations that will be under Entercom’s Los Angeles banner include smooth AC KTWV “The Wave”; classic hits-oldies KRTH “K-Earth 101”; adult hits KCBS-FM “Jack-FM”; all-news KNX; CHR KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio”; and alternative KROQ. All six are presently owned by CBS Radio. Its San Diego cluster will include KSON-FM; adult contemporary KXSN “Sunny 98.1”; and KBZT “94.9 – San Diego’s Alternative”; as well as current CBS Radio-owned hot AC KYXY and CHR KEGY “Energy 103.7.” In addition to WGGY, Entercom’s remaining Wilkes-Barre/Scranton stations are spring 2017 market leader (CHR) WKRZ “98.5 Today’s Best Music” (10.0, 6+); news/talkers WILK-AM, WILK-FM, WBZU, and WKZN; classic rock WMQX “Max 102”; and WKRF (which simulcasts WKRZ).
Sandy Buttweiler Exits WDAY-AM, Fargo. Fargo market talk radio pro Sandy Buttweiler has retired from Forum Communications’ news/talk WDAY-AM and is moving back to her hometown of
Minneapolis to be closer to family. Buttweiler worked in the Fargo market in numerous iterations: at KFGO from 1982 to 1987, 1992 to 2004, and 2006 through 2014. She hosted programs on WDAY in 2005, and most recently from 2014 through her retirement yesterday (9/26). During her career she co-hosted several times with well-known Fargo talk pro Jack Sunday and worked on air with WDAY program director Mike Kapel during this last gig. InForum.com reports Buttweiler saying, “I’ve been here 35 years and it’s time for me to live five minutes from my sister and my aunts and uncles and cousins.”
Talent Shift at WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta. The Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Rodney Ho reports that “News 95.5 and AM 750 WSB” program director Pete Spriggs is flipping the show times of Eric Von Haessler’s “Von Haessler Doctrine” and the Herman Cain show. Beginning October 2, Cain assumes the 11:00 am to 12:00 noon hour and Von Haessler moves to the 9:00 am to 11:00 am slot. In January of this year, Von Haessler was promoted from his weekend show to the daily, one-hour program. See Ho’s column here.
KNSS, Wichita’s Steve and Ted Do 5,000th Broadcast. This morning (9/27), KNSS, Wichita morning
duo Steve McIntosh and Ted Woodward performed their 5,000th morning show together. News/talk KNSS program director Tony Duesing states, “One of the reasons I’m always excited to go to work each day is that Steve and Ted are on KNSS mornings. They have an exciting show that matters to listeners.” During their time together on the Entercom station, Steve and Ted have won multiple awards from the Associated Press, Kansas Association of Broadcasters, RTNDA, and a Marconi from the National Association of Broadcasters. Jad Chambers serves as producer for the program.
Hollywood Reporter: Hannity Trumps Maddow in Head-to-Head Debut. According to a story in
The Hollywood Reporter, FOX News Channel star Sean Hannity bested MSNBC rival 
Rachel Maddow on Monday night (9/25), the first night the two personalities aired head-to-head at 9:00 pm ET. Hannity moved to the timeslot as part of changes that include the imminent debut of Laura Ingraham’s new 10:00 pm ET show. Maddow has been the cable news/talk ratings leader for much of this year. The story notes that although FNC continues to be the Total Day and Prime Time winner of Nielsen’s cable news/talk ratings – topping CNN and MSNBC – Maddow has been the most-watched show in both Total Viewers and 25-54 during the past quarter. But on Monday, Hannity beat Maddow by 610,000 Total Viewers and 75,000 25-54 viewers. Read the story here.
Trump vs the NFL, Alabama Senate Primary Race, North Korea Threats/Sanctions, ObamaCare Repeal, Tax Reform, Puerto Rico Devastation, Trump-Russia Probe, MLB Playoff Push, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/26). The controversy over President Trump’s calling for NFL players who protest during the national anthem to be fired; the Alabama U.S. Senate primary race between Republicans Luther Strange and Roy Moore; North Korea’s military threats against the U.S. and the most recent sanctions levied on the hermit kingdom; the GOP’s attempt to get enough Senate votes to repeal the Affordable Care Act and replace it with the Graham-Cassidy plan; the GOP’s plans to craft a tax reform bill; the devastation of Puerto Rico by Hurricane Maria; the investigation into former Paul Manafort’s and Michael Flynn’s Russia connections; the playoff push in Major League Baseball; and the weekend’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Broadcasters Foundation of America Establishes Gary Fries Memorial Fund. In honor of recently
deceased Radio Advertising Bureau executive Gary Fries, the Broadcasters Foundation of America is establishing the Gary Fries Memorial Fund. BFoA president Jim Thompson states, “Gary was very passionate about radio and the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation to help our colleagues in need. He loved the radio profession, supported it, talked about it, and had many dear friends in our business.” Fries, who died in Scottsdale, Arizona last Friday, was a longtime director of the Broadcasters Foundation. Those wishing to donate in Fries’ honor may visit the Broadcasters Foundation’s website at www.broadcastersfoundation.org, call 212-373-8250, or email info@thebfoa.org.
JohnJay Van Es’ #LovePup Foundation Featured in People. Pictured backstage at the T-mobile Arena in Las Vegas at last weekend’s iHeartRadio Music Festival are pop star Miley Cyrus (left) and JohnJay Van Es (right) of Premiere Networks’ syndicated “Johnjay & Rich” show. They are surrounded by rescue puppies from Van Es’ #LovePup Foundation that he was promoting at the festival. People magazine did a piece on the #LovePup Foundation.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Cool local props for CHR WNTQ, Syracuse “93Q” and morning personalities Ted Long and Amy Robbins – both winners in the Syracuse New Times’ “Best of
Syracuse” reader’s poll. Cumulus Media’s “93Q” was named Top Radio Station, and Ted and Amy were honored with the Favorite Radio Personalities crown. The ever-popular on-air duo has won in the category more than 20 times in the last 25 years…..CBS RADIO Pittsburgh’s WDSY “Y108” is 
presenting the fifth annual “Y108 Girls With Guitars” concert, this year starring RaeLynn, Carly Pearce, and Danielle Bradbery. It takes place on October 5 at Rivers Casino. CBS RADIO Pittsburgh VP of programming Mark Anderson says, “Y108’s ‘Girls With Guitars’ has become one of the ‘gotta-have-it’ tickets in a very busy country concert marketplace. We are excited to present RaeLynn, Carly Pearce, and Danielle Bradbery to our listeners while also introducing the newest member of ‘Y108’ all in support of Glimmer of Hope and the great work they do. Set against the backdrop of the Rivers Casino, this free show is a great night out for Pittsburgh residents.” Glimmer of Hope funds breast cancer research and programs. Glimmer of Hope will be onsite during the event conducting various fundraising activities, including a silent auction…..iHeartMedia Milwaukee is presenting the inaugural, “Let’s Brunch MKE,” a community food sampling event. It takes place from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 28. iHeartMedia VP of programming Kerry Wolfe says, “Brunch is huge in Milwaukee. We’re excited to bring our listeners and the community together with both some of their local favorites and restaurants they may be experiencing for the first time.”
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Report: Laura Ingraham Set to Host Prime Time FNC Show. According to a CNN Money report, talk radio host and conservative media figure Laura Ingraham is joining FOX News Channel for a
prime-time show. The report cites sources who requested anonymity because the deal is not official just yet. But, the story says Ingraham will take over the 10:00 pm ET slot and the Sean Hannity show will move to 9:00 pm ET. The program “The Five” moves back to the 5:00 pm hour, replacing the “FOX News Specialists” – the show that was canceled with the exit of Eric Bolling from the network last Friday. FNC told CNN Money there is no deal in place, but that’s standard operating procedure prior to an official announcement. Ingraham, who has hosted a nationally syndicated talk radio program for almost two decades, is a regular contributor to FOX News Channel.
WLW, Cincinnati Lets Tracy Jones Go. It appears that this is another budget-related move on the part of iHeartMedia management as former Cincinnati Reds player Tracy Jones was fired from his
WLW, Cincinnati afternoon drive gig alongside Eddie Fingers on Friday (9/8). WVXU’s John Kiesewetter reports that early afternoon personality Bill Cunningham told his listeners yesterday (9/11) that it was a corporate decision and was not a reflection of Tracy Jones’ performance. Jones started with WLW hosting the “Extra Innings” post-game show after weekend Reds games. In 2008, he was partnered with Eddie Fingers (who moved over from sister rock station WEBN) to host afternoons, replacing the retired Gary Burbank.
Entercom Debuts Newell Normand Show on WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans. Yesterday (9/11) was the official debut of the Newell Normand show on Entercom’s New Orleans news/talk WWL-AM/FM. The program features retired Jefferson Parish sheriff Newell Normand and airs from 10:00 am to 1:00 
pm. Normand takes over the daypart from Garland Robinette, who recently retired from the station. Entercom New Orleans VP/market manager Chris Wegmann comments, “Today marks a historic day for WWL. Newell commands the respect needed to host middays on WWL. He was a popular and powerful leader in politics who wants to continue to be a positive influence on our community. We have every belief that Newell will be an opinion leader, and his legacy of excellence will grow on the most powerful station in the Gulf South.”
Nielsen Announces Delay in Ratings Reports. With its headquarters in the Tampa area affected by Hurricane Irma, Nielsen issued the following statement about the issuance of ratings reports: “Our 
first priority and thoughts are for the safety of our clients, Nielsen associates, and communities in which we operate and serve. The team that reports ratings has evacuated the Tampa Bay area due to Hurricane Irma. Therefore, our ratings will be delayed in the near term. We are actively monitoring the situation in Florida and will provide another update as soon as we know more.”
Beasley Florida Stations in Good Shape. Based on Monday morning’s report from Beasley Media Group, it sounded as though the Fort Myers studios had sustained some serious flood damage, but 
today the company is reporting that the studio building “has some minor damage, but is in good condition otherwise.” Although both CHR WXKB “B103.9” and sports talk WWCN-FM “99.3 ESPN” are both off the air. The company says the engineering team will be installing a new transmitter in Fort Myers this morning. Beasley’s Tampa stations are all on the air.
iHeartRadio to Broadcast Fundraiser for Harvey Relief. The program was initiated by Houston rapper Bun B and SB Projects founder Scooter Braun. It’s called “Hand in Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Harvey Relief” and it will air on 150 iHeartMedia stations as well as the iHeartRadio “Hit
Nation” channel at both 8:00 pm ET and a re-broadcast at 8:00 pm PT. The one-hour special takes place in Los Angeles, with remote stages in New York and Nashville, and will include appearances, performances and taped messages from: several dozen A-list actors, musicians and entertainment industry personalities. Proceeds will be donated to United Way of Greater Houston, Habitat for Humanity, Save the Children, Direct Relief, Feeding Texas and The Mayor’s Fund for Hurricane Harvey Relief (administered by the Greater Houston Community Fund) through the Hand in Hand Hurricane Relief Fund managed by Comic Relief USA.
Dave Ramsey Presence on SiriusXM Expands. The Dave Ramsey Network grows on SiriusXM with the addition of new programming on the satcaster’s Triumph Channel. Daily from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm ET, Ramsey programming now includes, in addition to the Dave Ramsey show (heard on
SiriusXM for the past year), Ramsey personalities Chris Hogan, Christy Wright, Chris Brown and Ken Coleman, plus the popular EntreLeadership podcast. EntreLeadership, hosted by Ken Coleman, features discussion and tips on leadership and business by some of the top minds in business, including Mark Cuban, Seth Godin, Jim Collins and Simon Sinek. Chris Hogan is the best-selling author of Retire Inspired: It’s Not an Age; It’s a Financial Number and host of the “Retire Inspired Podcast.” Christy Wright is the author of the best-selling book, Business Boutique, and host of the “Business Boutique” podcast. Chris Brown is a pastor and dynamic speaker carrying the message of intentional living nationwide. He hosts the “Life, Money and Hope Podcast.”
Cumulus Appeals NASDAQ De-Listing. With its current share price (as of closing on 9/11) of 39 cents per share and a market cap of less than $12 million, Cumulus Media is in danger of being 
tossed from the NASDAQ. But, CEO Mary Berner has filed another appeal of the company’s failure to meet the minimum stockholders equity requirement. Theoretically, the company has until October 2 to get its share price above $1 dollar, but there are other avenues that Berner and CFO John Abbot can explore.
TALKERS News Notes. Ahead of this year’s Veterans Day (11/11), CBS RADIO’s ConnectingVets.com is celebrating the holiday through its first ever “Veterans Community Showcase” – a three month, two-part program focused on honoring Veterans for everything they do both during and after military service. During the first phase of the program, ConnectingVets.com will accept public nominations of local veterans online. An internal programming committee will then select and profile one veteran each weekday from November 1 to Veterans Day. The profiles will be posted on ConnectingVets.com and Facebook. The sites will also feature sponsored editorial content giving companies with dedicated veterans’ initiatives a unique chance to share the good work they do and praise their own employees, many of whom are veterans themselves. University of Maryland University College and United Rentals will sponsor the inaugural “Veterans Showcase” alongside ConnectingVets.com sponsor Freedom Mortgage…..Former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion Miesha Tate and former Green Bay Packers linebacker and devoted MMA enthusiast A.J. Hawk join the roster of hosts covering the world of mixed martial arts on the SiriusXM Rush channel. Tate and Hawk will be featured hosts on “MMA Today,” an exclusive new show airing every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET.
Irma Aftermath/Harvey Recovery, Climate Change Controversy, New Sanctions on North Korea, Hillary Clinton Book, Bannon ’60 Minutes’ Interview, Retiring Congressional Republicans, IT Movie, NFL Opening Weekend, and MLB Playoff Push Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/11). The aftermath of Hurricane Irma and the recovery from Hurricane Harvey; the renewed debate over man-made climate change; the U.N. Security Council imposes new sanctions on North Korea and the hermit kingdom’s threat against the U.S.; Hillary Clinton’s new book detailing her loss to Donald Trump; former White House adviser Stephen K. Bannon’s Sunday evening interview with Charlie Rose on “60 Minutes”; the growing list of Republican Senators and U.S. Reps announcing they will not run for re-election; the Stephen King film IT smashes box-office expectations; the NFL’s 2017 opening weekend; and the Major League Baseball playoff push were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Tim Maranville is exiting Curtis Media’s adult hits WBBB, Raleigh to join Cornerstone Church-owned KGGN, San Jacinto, California as president and general manager. Maranville says, “I would like to thank my team at WBBB for an extraordinary run from worst to
best in Raleigh, a true blessing. Looking to the future, I could not be happier to be working with Cornerstone to bring the Gospel to the San Jacinto valley through a local radio presence.”…..The Johnjay and Rich #LoveUp Foundation presented the American Red Cross with a check for $50,000 to benefit the hurricane relief effort. Last week, the hosts of the popular Premiere Networks-syndicated show invited listeners nationally to “love up” and purchase #LoveUp T-shirts with all proceeds benefitting victims of the recent hurricanes. In just eight days, thousands of shirts were sold. The #LoveUp Foundation also contributed additional funds to achieve the $50,000 total donation. Rich Berra says, “We couldn’t do this without the giving hearts and loyal followers of the #LoveUp movement.”…..The local Nashville country band Radio Romance won the “NASH Next 2017 Country Challenge Showcase” live country music talent competition held on September 7, 2017 at 3rd & Lindsley in Nashville. The band was one of 10 that made it past the challenge round in the Cumulus Media-sponsored competition. Radio Romance won over the judges and crowd with their performance of “Cheap Beer Years” and will advance as a semi-finalist to the national NASH Next 2017 video competition, to be held this fall. Cumulus Media VP of country programming Charlie Cook says, “What a great night showcasing fantastic talent from Nashville! The crowd went crazy when we announced Radio Romance as the winners for the night. I can hear their song ‘Cheap Beer Years’ on our stations.”
Monday, August 21, 2017
Chris Christie Out of Running for WFAN PM Drive Gig. Outgoing New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has taken himself out of the running for the afternoon drive gig at CBS RADIO’s sports talk WFAN, New York. On Sunday, the governor’s spokesperson released a statement issuing what’s being
called a correction to a New York Daily News piece that indicated Christie was told he is no longer in the running for the job. Christie called the Daily News story “totally incorrect” and said the following: “After considering the other options that I have been presented with for post-gubernatorial employment, I declined their request to do additional shows. I made station executives aware that while I would be happy to continue to fill in for Boomer when asked and when available, that they should no longer consider me as a candidate interested in any job at WFAN when I leave the governorship. I made that clear to them prior to leaving for my family vacation two weeks ago.” Meanwhile, NorthJersey.com reports that CBS RADIO states no decision about filling Mike Francesa’s daypart has been made.
Bubba’s Attorneys Challenge Judge’s Ruling Limiting Nielsen MRC Documents. Lawyers for Bubba the Love Sponge have filed a formal objection to a Magistrate Judge’s recent ruling limiting the documents Nielsen must provide regarding the Media Rating Council’s issues with the accreditation of the PPM to the Tampa market. Nielsen is suing Bubba the Love Sponge claiming his
tampering with the PPM survey in the Tampa market causing it damages to the tune of $25 million. Bubba’s lawyers were recently granted documents related to the MRC’s concerns about PPM methodology, but only in the Tampa market. They seek MRC documents related to all PPM markets and they say that’s relevant because Nielsen’s allegation of 
damages suffered relates to “contract price concessions allegedly demanded by a Nielsen subscriber, Cox Media Group, Inc. (‘Cox’), for its entire nationwide contracts with Nielsen, including both radio and television broadcast contracts.” Further, Bubba’s lawyers argue, “Defendants counter that Nielsen’s ratings system has fundamental flaws that are known throughout the radio industry, and therefore, Nielsen cannot claim reputational damages in this action. In support of this claim, Defendants sought discovery from MRC, the media and television industry’s watchdog for media measurements research and methodology, regarding MRC’s issues with the accuracy of Nielsen’s ratings system, including MRC’s decision not to accredit Nielsen’s PPM surveys.”
KTTH, Seattle Names New AM Show. Changes to the morning drive daypart take place at Bonneville’s Seattle news/talker KTTH as the KSTE, Sacramento-based Armstrong & Getty show is cancelled and local personality Jason Rantz becomes the new morning host. Rantz moves over to 
KTTH from the company’s sister talk station KIRO-FM where he’s been co-hosting the “Jason & Burns” evening program with Zak Burns, who remains at KIRO-FM hosting the show solo. The changes take effect on September 5. About his new show, Rantz says on MyNorthwest.com, “What can you expect on the show? Well, a lot of what you heard previously. I’ll be taking on progressive activists who are trying to silence and bully us. I will have rational conversations about President Trump. I will have fun, interviewing interesting people, while exploring all the issues that actually impact our lives. I’ll also give you live traffic reports so you can get to work on time and have some special surprises up my sleeve!”
Jimmy Barrett Co-Hosting KTRH’s ‘Houston’s Morning News.’ The new co-host of KTRH, Houston’s morning drive program moves into the role from iHeartMedia’s Richmond, Virginia news/talk WRVA. Jimmy Barrett is named to work with news anchor Shara Fryer hosting
“Houston’s Morning News,” replacing Matt Patrick, who passed away in June after a battle with cancer. iHeartMedia Houston director of AM programming Bryan Erickson states, “Jimmy has a big voice, a big heart and big shoes to fill. It’s impossible for anyone to replace Matt Patrick and we all know that. I think Matt’s audience will embrace Jimmy as we move forward from what has been a very difficult time.” Barrett has been host of WRVA’s morning show for the past 16 years.
Chris Rude Leaves Atlanta’s ‘Fan.’ As reported by Rodney Ho at the AJC, morning personality
Christopher Rude has exited the Dickey-owned sports talk outlet WCNN “680 and 93.7 the Fan” after 15 years. Rude was joined on his “Rude Awakening” program by former sports talk WQXI personalities Chris Dimino and Nick Cellini in recent years and WCNN is going to continue with that duo hosting a renamed morning program. Before signing on with WCNN, Rude had hosted mornings at then-rock WKLS “96 Rock.” Read Ho’s AJC piece here.
Barcelona Terror Attack, Bannon Exits Trump Administration, Confederate Memorial Removals, Trump on Afghanistan, U.S.-North Korea Tensions, Monday’s Solar Eclipse, Jerry Lewis Dies at 91, Sunday’s ‘Game of Thrones’ Episode, MLB Action, and NFL Pre-Season Games Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Friday’s deadly terror attack in Barcelona and the search for the van driver; the firing of White House adviser Stephen K. Bannon; the wave of Confederate monuments being removed from public buildings and parks; President Trump’s plan to address the military and the nation on his policy for U.S. involvement in Afghanistan; the ongoing military tensions between the U.S. and North Korea; today’s solar eclipse; the death of Jerry Lewis at age 91; Sunday night’s new season seven episode of HBO’s “Game of Thrones”; the weekend’s Major League Baseball action; and NFL pre-season action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk show host Mike Gallagher will originate his Salem
Radio Network program from KKNT, Phoenix “AM 960 The Patriot” during the day tomorrow (8/22) and will deliver on-site coverage of President Trump’s rally at the 
Phoenix Convention Center at 7:00 pm…..Named senior vice president & chief HR officer at Cox Media Group is Mary Ellen Marcilliat-Falkner. She succeeds Karen Bennett, who was named Cox Communications’ new EVP & chief HR officer last month. CMG president Kim Guthrie comments, “Mary Ellen is a proven Cox leader, with over 20 years in the automotive business, and she brings with her a strong understanding of our Cox values, most importantly that our employees are truly our most valuable resource.”…..NuVoodoo Media Services joins forces with Amplifi Media to present the results of a recent study of 9,000 Millennial podcast listeners nationwide at Podcast
Movement on Thursday, August 24 in Anaheim. Amplifi Media founder and CEO Steve Goldstein and NuVoodoo EVP research analysis Leigh Jacobs will present the new research findings, along with insights and video highlights of dozens of one-on-one interviews of Millennial podcast listeners at the 11:00 am session…..The New Jersey Broadcasters Association is marking its 70th anniversary at a special awards dinner and gala on November 2 at the Tropicana Resort and Casino in Atlantic City. The theme of the event is “Broadcast’s Heritage and Enduring Impact on Society.” NJBA will honor of Mr. Ben Ferencz, (the only surviving Nuremberg Prosecutor) with its Howard L. Green Humanitarian of the Year Award 
and induct the 2017 NJBA Hall of Fame class…..Jacobs Media recently presented the findings of the Millennial Research Project before the Public Radio Program Directors Association at this year’s PRPD Content Conference in Washington, DC. Jacobs Media president Fred Jacobs states, “We immersed ourselves into the lives of a dozen Millennial public radio listeners. We spent a full day with each of them, from the time they woke up through their workday and back at home, observing their media and lifestyle activities. This project speaks volumes about media, journalism, politics, and the perceptions of Millennials. Public radio plays an important role but it’s essential to understand how these listeners are similar and how they are different from the traditional audience.”
Smidt: July 2017 PPM Review. Broadcast advisor Clark Smidt reports some of his thoughts from the July 2017 PPM survey ratings results from Nielsen Audio. Smidt adds more to his hypothesis that markets see more AQH share change when PPM meters change households. He also notes some interesting results for HD stations that are showing up in the PPM surveys and which markets show higher than average HD listening. See it all here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Jerry Lee-owned hot AC WBEB, Philadelphia “101.1 MORE-FM,” Mark Shepperd takes over the afternoon drive show. WBEB program director Chuck Knight comments,
“Mark is one of the most versatile people in radio. He has filled many different roles for us in various full and part-time positions over many years, most recently swing. We feel Mark’s upbeat energy and style is a perfect match to drive home Philly’s largest afternoon radio audience.” Shepperd fills the role vacated by Logan who exited to do mornings at WINK-FM, Fort Myers…..From Blaine Thompson’s Indiana Radio Watch, program director and midday personality Dave Michaels exits Federated Media’s country WQHK, Fort Wayne. Additionally, Michaels had been voice-tracking an afternoon shift on Talking Stick Communications’ country WAWC, Syracuse, Indiana and will now host that shift live. Meanwhile, Federated Media programmer Jimmy Knight will assume the PD role at WQHK, adding to his programming duties for CHR WMEE…..Cox Media Group’s alternative WSUN, Tampa “97X” announces the lineup for its “97X Next Big Thing” concert at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre on December 2-3. The Lumineers and Paramore are headlining and other acts include: Walk the Moon, X Ambassadors, Vance Joy, Portugal. The Man, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, Saint Motel, Joywave, Magic Giant, Misterwives, The Aces, Barns Courtney, Mondo Cozmo, Arkells, and Vinyl Theatre.
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
CBS News Radio Appoints Bolton Manager, Affiliate Sales. Most recently a consultant to AT&T/DIRECTV on the syndication of radio shows hosted by 
Dan Patrick; Rich Eisen; and Joe Buck, Amy Bolton is named manager, affiliate sales at CBS News Radio. “Amy has an unrivaled depth of affiliate sales experience,” CBS News Radio general manager Craig Swagler comments. “The relationships she has formed with stations over the years make her an excellent fit for the position. I look forward to the contributions she will make in this new role as we continue to work closely with our affiliates and explore new 
partnerships.” Bolton declares that, “CBS News Radio is the gold standard in original radio journalism; this is a dream job. I am thrilled to be part of the next phase of this award-winning organization and deliver our affiliates the highest quality programming.” In addition to having previously consulted Cox Media Group news site Rare.us and ABC Radio, Bolton, who grew up in Rome and holds a University of Maryland Bachelor of Science degree in human ecology and marketing, spent nearly six years as senior vice president of talk & news for Westwood One (formerly Dial Global), and ten years as vice president of affiliate sales, news/talk at Dial Global (acquired Jones Radio Network).
Last Call For Dawson. On the Kansas City Chiefs broadcasts as a commentator since 1984, former quarterback Len Dawson will not return to the booth after the 2017 
NFL season. The team’s chair and chief executive officer Clark Hunt, son of team founder Lamar Hunt, declares, “Next to my father, few people have had a more lasting impact on the Kansas City Chiefs than Len Dawson. Over the course of his legendary career – first as a player and later as a broadcaster – Len has been a part of every major moment in franchise history. We sincerely appreciate his many contributions to ‘Chiefs Kingdom’ since he arrived as a player in 1962. We look forward to having Len as part of the Chiefs Radio Network for the 2017 season.” Chiefs Radio Network executive 
producer Dan Israel notes, “It has been a true privilege and honor to have Len at the center of our broadcast team for the last 33 years. His contributions to not only this sport, but our industry, are incredibly profound. I am thankful he will continue to be part of the Chiefs Radio Network this season; he will forever be welcome as a part of our broadcast team family.” Dawson led the Chiefs to victory in Super Bowl IV and three AFL championships. “Looking back on my career, I’ve been blessed for what I had the opportunity to do,” Dawson comments. “I could not have accomplished so much without my teammates and colleagues – I am grateful for each of them.” Frank Gifford, Dan Dierdorf, and Dawson are the only three dual-honorees as players and broadcasters in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Cumulus Media Kansas City classic rock KCFX “101 The Fox” is the team’s flagship.
ABC Radio Names Hubbard Country Producer/Reporter. Fittingly based in Nashville, Stephen Hubbard joins ABC Radio as a 
country producer and reporter. While Hubbard will primarily be reporting for ABC Radio, he will support all ABC News platforms. In a staff memo, ABC Radio vice president and general manager Steve Jones notes that award-winning producer Hubbard is “well known in Nashville and around the country world. He will continue to report on all things country including interviewing the genre’s biggest stars. With more than 20 years of experience, Stephen has worked on a variety of projects including CMT specials starring Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert; Great American Country’s ‘Opry Live’; ‘Music 
City Keep on Playin,’ a benefit concert for the victims of the 2010 Nashville flood; and ‘Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountains Rise’ telethon after the 2016 East Tennessee wildfires. He recently interviewed Shania Twain, Thomas Rhett, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, and Brad Paisley. This summer, Stephen worked on ABC Radio’s 4th of July special – ‘Country Family Salute’ – with country star Josh Turner, and ABC Radio’s Memorial Day special – ‘Kelsea Ballerini’s Summer Road Trip.'” A country content contributor to ABC Radio since 2010, Hubbard most recently was a producer for ABC-TV’s Nashville affiliate WKRN-TV (channel 2). Two-time Emmy nominee Hubbard received an Associated Press award for “Best TV Producing in Tennessee.”
Wetherbee Wins Weather Recognition. Owing to his daily forecasts and severe winter weather broadcasts on the Georgia News Network, Envision 
Radio Networks meteorologist John Wetherbee is the recipient of this year’s GABBY Award for Excellence in Broadcasting for “Best Weather Coverage.” Wetherbee states, “This is so exciting to be recognized by GAB for my weather reporting throughout Georgia and having the ability to continue to grow and succeed 
in my life-long passion – radio. It is just so cool.” With its weather component, Envision Radio Networks’ EnvisionVirtualServices provides stations up to five daily forecasts each weekday and 24-hour on-call severe weather coverage on a barter basis. Wetherbee’s recognition took place as part of GABCON 2017, a convention for Georgia television and radio broadcasters.
PPM Data – Round Two. Information for the July 2017 ratings period has been released for Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Detroit; Seattle; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Denver; Tampa; Baltimore; and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s July 2017 survey period covered June 22 – July 19. See the data from these 12-PPM markets here.
Townsquare Media Q2 Net Revenue Up 2.6%. Compared to the second quarter of 2016, Townsquare Media’s net revenue increased 2.6%, which is consistent with previously issued guidance. Chairman and chief executive officer Steven Price comments, “We are 
pleased to report another solid quarter that was in line with our expectations. Our second quarter performance was anchored by our Local Marketing Solutions segment, where revenue increased 4.3% over the prior year, and 4.8% excluding political revenue. Our results in this segment are representative of the continued strength of our local advertiser solutions and the strength our local teams.” Entertainment net revenue and net income were approximately flat. Adjusted EBITDA was also approximately flat, consistent with previously issued guidance. Diluted net income and diluted adjusted net income per share are of $0.20 and $0.21, respectively. In terms of year-to-year comparisons, the company’s net revenue decreased by 1.1%. Conversely, Local Marketing Solutions net revenue increased by 2.9%. The company repaid $6.7 million of long-term debt and there are year-to-year decreases in entertainment net revenue (-10.2%); net income (-39.4%); and adjusted EBITDA (-5.0%).
NABJ and NAHJ To Hold Combined 2020 Confab. As they did last year in Washington, DC, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) will have a joint convention in 2020. NABJ president Sarah Glover comments, “NABJ is looking forward to 
hosting another joint convention with NAHJ. Both groups executed a memorable convention
experience for our members and the journalism industry last year. We have a lot of momentum to build off of as we head into 2020. It only makes sense to bring black and Hispanic journalists together as we move toward what is shaping up to be a history-making election in 2020.” Meanwhile, NAHJ president Brandon Benavides remarks, “As we move toward returning to a joint convention with NABJ, we will be recognizing the priorities in our programming, special events, and all elements of a conference that our members value most. It is critical that as the two largest journalism associations of color, we not only make an investment into our student journalists, but also provide the best resources to develop talent and make it our mission to create more leadership training opportunities for all of our journalists.”
Demand for Spanish-Language Spots Skyrocketing. Given radio’s reach and growing podcast audiences, digital audio advertising is considered by many to be the single most effective medium to connect with Hispanic audiences. According to Nielsen research, radio reaches more than 92% of Hispanics regardless 
of language preference. Oink Ink co-founder Dan Price explains his company has produced Spanish radio spots for various clients, but it has been especially busy the last seven months. “We are working with a number of clients to create relevant Spanish-language radio spots that demonstrate an understanding of nuances of the culture and diversity within the Hispanic market.” According to Pew Research, Hispanics are the youngest ethnic group in the United States, while data from Latinum Network indicates ads targeting Hispanics in Spanish significantly increase their interest in purchasing products. Price comments, “We didn’t need research to tell us that thoughtful, creative ads work better – regardless of the language. [Nonetheless], it’s nice to have facts that demonstrate the value of the work we do for our clients. We work with the best Spanish-speaking writers, actors, and sound mixers in the country – the ads are resonating culturally.”
Remembering Glen Campbell. After battling against Alzheimer’s since 2011, singer-songwriter Glen Campbell lost his fight against the 
disease yesterday (Tuesday, 8/8) in Nashville; the 1968 Country Music Association “Entertainer of The Year” was 81. A rural Arkansas native, Campbell hosted “The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour” on CBS-TV. A midseason replacement that debuted in January 1969, the series ran until June 1972; Jerry Reed and Anne Murray were among the show’s regulars. In the mid-1960s, Campbell briefly toured with the Beach Boys and he really hit it big in 1967, earning multiple individual Grammy nominations for “Gentle on My Mind” and “By the Time I Get to Phoenix.” One year later, “Wichita Lineman” reached the Top 5. All three of those singles were inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. While continuing to do extremely well on the country charts – more than two-dozen top 10 hits and five songs that reached #1 – Campbell went on to have pop notoriety with “Galveston” and “It’s Only Make Believe.” By the mid-1970s, he again enjoyed considerable success – this time with “Southern Nights” and the often parodied “Rhinestone Cowboy.” Altogether over a six-decade span, the sharecropper’s son and seventh of 12 children, released more than 70 albums and won six Grammys among 20 nominations. He sold 45 million records; had 12 gold albums; four platinum; and one double-platinum. Approximately 80 different Glen Campbell songs reached the country, top 40, or adult contemporary charts, nine ascending to #1. The 2005 Country Music Hall of Fame inductee was in-demand as a session player, featured on the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby”; Jan & Dean’s “Dead Man’s Curve,” and Shelley Fabares’ “Johnny Angel” (among others). As part of the Wrecking Crew, he played on recordings of artists ranging from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Nat Cole to Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson, and The Monkees. The 2014 film “Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me” followed Campbell and his family during a farewell tour in the United States, Australia, and Europe as he dealt with his illness. The powerful “I’m Not Going to Miss You” from the film landed an Oscar nomination (losing to “Glory” from “Selma”) and a Grammy nomination (losing to “Let It Go” from “Frozen”). Tim McGraw sang it at the 2015 Academy Awards. Campbell’s appropriately-titled final studio album, “Adios,” was released earlier this year. Donations that will support Alzheimer’s research may be made to the Glen Campbell Memorial Fund at Brightfocus Foundation.
After Cutting “Idol” Fox Answers with “The Four.” We’ve seen it unfold countless times in radio. Station executives determine a particular on-air talent is no longer sufficient enough for the salary and they then hold their breath when that personality (or team) crosses the street to join the competition. After a 15-season run on Fox, “American Idol” will surface on ABC midseason with iHeartMedia Los Angeles KIIS “Kiss-FM” morning drive star Ryan Seacrest continuing as host. Yesterday (Tuesday, 8/8), Fox announced it will deliver a new singing competition series – “The Four” – from Armoza Formats and ITV Entertainment. With a tagline of “We start with the best and only get better,” Fox’s “The Four” will not launch until 2018. While the network has yet to announce a specific premiere date or host for “The Four,” the show is not expected to be slotted directly against “Idol” or NBC’s Carson Daly-hosted “The Voice.” Each week, the top four will sing against challengers to retain their slots on the show. A panel of (yet-to-be cast) music experts and personalities will choose the original finalists from auditions. Similar to “American Idol,” viewers will be able to vote from home on four contestants. They get to decide who is brought on the show by voting on streamed auditions, influencing which challengers will take on “The Four.” Fox Broadcasting Company president of alternative entertainment Rob Wade maintains “The Four” (billed as “The Final Four” in Israel, as pictured) is nothing like “American Idol,” categorizing it as the most “pure, clean format” for a singing competition he has ever seen, while Fox Television Group co-chair/chief executive officer Dana Walden opines singing competition series have become “much more about celebrity panelists and less about” turning aspiring singers into stars.
Savannah’s “G-100” Grabs Station of the Year Honors. In a Georgia Association of Broadcasters award ceremony held this past weekend at Jekyll Island, Alpha Media Savannah (Georgia)
– Hilton Head (South Carolina) classic hip-hop WXYY “G-100 The Throwback Station” was named “Station of the Year” for “Division Radio A/Large market.” Alpha Media Savannah – Hilton Head vice president and market manager Gigi South points out that “G-100” celebrated its first birthday last month and “winning ‘Station of the Year’ is a major accomplishment. The state of Georgia has many super radio talents. This is a 
huge honor and we are so grateful to our listeners [as well as to our] staff and Alpha Media, which gives us the tools and celebrates our passion to win.” Program director Amini remarks, “In one year, we have made groundbreaking history. Listeners call, text, find us on social media, and stop us in person just to share their love for the ‘Throwback’ music. From Hurricane Matthew coverage, to collecting toys, to helping kids get fit and perform in school, everything we do is intended to give Savannah the best on-air product and listener experiences.” Meanwhile, station personality Mark “Shark” Ediss was cited as Georgia’s “Best On-Air Personality.” Among persons 12+ in Savannah’s latest (Spring 2017) Nielsen Audio book, “G-100” ranks ninth (4.1, 12+); Cumulus Media urban contemporary WEAS and iHeartMedia CHR WAEV are tied at #1 – each with 8.3 (12+). In Hilton Head’s comparable spring 2017 results, Alpha Media country WUBB is on top with a 6.5 (12+), while WXYY is sixth (2.6, 12+).
Nation’s Capital First Up in Café Mocha “Salute Her” Tour. Launched over seven years ago, 2017 Gracie award winner Café Mocha Radio kicks off its “Salute Her: 
Beauty of Diversity Tour” in just over two weeks (8/25) in Washington, DC. Among those being honored there are White House journalist/author April Ryan of American Urban Radio Networks; actress Pam Grier; Grammy winning singer Stephanie Mills; entrepreneurs Germaine Leftridge and Vivian Pickard; and author Joi-Marie McKenzie. The syndicated radio show will have similar award ceremonies and networking events in New York City (9/28); Charlotte (11/4); and Chicago (12/14). This year’s theme, “Redefining What Perseverance Looks Like from the Inside Out,” underscores the importance of women maintaining their inner spirit to find strength. Café Mocha creator and executive producer Sheila Eldridge comments, “Over the years, we have honored more than 300 women. Our honorees demonstrate passion, creativity, and drive to break down barriers in their respective fields, truly redefining what perseverance looks like.” Café Mocha co-host comedienne Loni Love notes, “I am especially looking forward to honoring our incredible unsung heroines, these extraordinary women who are doing so much great work for others and rarely get recognition for their service.” Café Mocha incorporates urban contemporary music with hot topics and is “radio from a woman’s perspective.” The two-hour program heard in 35 markets features interviews with singers, celebrities, politicians, and those making headlines.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. After 14 years with Beasley Media Group, including the last three as chief revenue officer, Heather Monahan departs as the company eliminates her position. “I want to thank my team, partners, clients, and all the amazing people I have known over the years,” 
she writes on her LinkedIn account. “It has been an emotional few days and I wanted to thank everyone for their love and support.” The Clark University graduate spent four years as a Wilks Broadcasting market manager before joining Beasley as executive vice president of sales in March 2003 ….. Starting next Monday 
(8/14), Jackie Paige takes over mid-days (10:00 am – 3:00 pm) on Urban One Richmond urban contemporary WCDX “iPower 92.1/104.1.” Operations manager Yonni Rude notes, “Jackie’s talent and positive energy make her the perfect fit for Radio One Richmond.” Paige most recently was at Curtis Media Group Greenville-New Bern-Jacksonville, North Carolina urban contemporary WIKS “101.9 Kiss-FM” ….. Two-year WEZL program director Tyler Reese departs the iHeartMedia Charleston, South Carolina country station. Reese previously was music director at Nashville country sibling WSIX “The Big 98” and has worked at similarly-formatted co-owned WKKT “96.9 The Kat,” Charlotte and 
WMAD “96.3 Star Country,” Madison ….. The new night talent at Entercom Sacramento classic rock KSEG “Eagle 96.9” is Chris McCoy, whose previous experience includes working for nine years in Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey) at adult contemporary WMGQ “Magic 98.3.” In addition, McCoy did morning drive at Jerry Lee Radio Philadelphia adult contemporary WBEB “More FM” ….. To pay tribute to the passing of Glen Campbell (see the story above), Rick Jackson’s entire three-hour United Stations Radio Networks (USRN) “Country Classics” program on the weekend of August 26 and 27 will be comprised of Campbell’s greatest hits and his story ….. Following a five-year stint as senior vice president of programming for iHeartMedia Greensboro, Rich McMillan departs. He oversaw adult contemporary WMAG; CHR WMKS “100.3 Kiss-FM”; FM news/talk WPTI; WTQR “Q104.1 – New Country”; 
and WVBZ “Rock 105.7 – Man Up.” Prior to his time in Greensboro, McMillan programmed Miami and Birmingham stations for the company when it was known as Clear Channel. Exiting the iHM Greensboro cluster as well are WMAG program director Gary Nolan and WVBZ imaging voice Matt Pencola ….. The third annual, three-hour “Hungry for Hip-Hop” concert presented by iHeartMedia Orlando urban contemporary WTKS-HD2 “104.5 The Beat” takes place in two weeks (8/24) in downtown Orlando and will feature an all-female lineup. “Beat” on-air personality Viva La Koi will host. Proceeds will benefit Pathlight HOME, a nonprofit organization that provides affordable housing and economic opportunities to Central Florida’s homeless ….. Having recently taken a hiatus from programming Sarkes Tarzian Fort Wayne, Indiana adult contemporary WAJI “Magic 95.1,” Dan Baisden returns to radio for part-time/weekend on-air duties at Adams Radio Group’s crosstown, similarly-formatted WWFW “103.9 Sunny FM.”
#Conclave42
By Holland Cooke
Media Consultant
MINNEAPOLIS — Each year, “The Conclave Summer Learning Conference” draws a largely Midwest crowd; so – with all the great radio in the region – it’s an opportunity to talk shop with genuinely enthused broadcasters. Applause to Cumulus/Westwood One VP/social Lori Lewis, this year’s conference chair.
Opening Session: “Ask Me Almost Anything”
Did I say “enthused?” Sound bites from the suits:
Greg Strassell, SVP/programming, Hubbard Radio
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
O’Heron Rises to SVP, Live Entertainment & Events for iHeartMedia. Prior to his new position, Dennis O’Heron was iHeartMedia’s national event brand manager for national programming in addition to being the VP of marketing for the iHeartMedia Boston cluster. The company says he’s been “an instrumental contributor to many of iHeartMedia’s marquee events for several years, including working very closely with us on the very first
iHeartRadio Music Festival in 2011.” Now, O’Heron joins the company’s national programming group as the SVP, Live Entertainment & Events. iHM adds, “Dennis brings many years of experience and has a proven track record in the Boston market, including being part of the team that created the initial idea of a multi-band radio show at ‘KISS 108,’ which eventually led to the inception of the Jingle Ball concerts and many others. Dennis is already a well-respected leader and his extensive programming, event planning, digital and marketing experience make him the perfect person for this critical role.” He reports to national programming group president Tom Poleman.
Nielsen Seeks Dismissal of Bubba Counterclaim. In a motion filed in District Court in Tampa, Nielsen is asking the court to dismiss the counterclaim filed against it and Cox Media Group by Bubba the Love Sponge 
Clem, arguing that it’s a “classic shotgun pleading.” Bubba Clem’s counterclaim alleged that Nielsen and Cox Media Group conspired to entrap Bubba into trying to manipulate Nielsen’s PPM panel in the Tampa market with the help of a “double agent” panelist. Nielsen is suing Bubba Clem for $1 million, claiming previous attempts to tamper with the Tampa PPM panel caused it to suffer damages. Nielsen states that Bubba’s counterclaim is merely “wild and far-fetched accusations” and that it should be dismissed because it “fails to provide any plausible claim for relief under the standards the U.S. Supreme Court.”
WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte Commemorates 95 Years on Air with Inductions into Station Hall of Fame. On Monday (4/10), Entercom’s WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte celebrated the heritage station’s 95th anniversary with the 
airing of special programming highlighting important moments in the station’s history, as well as inducting three broadcasters – Ray Gooding, Henry Boggan and John Hancock into the WBT Hall of Fame. Hancock currently is the station’s afternoon drive personality. He joined
the station in 1990. WBT calls him a “passionate community leader” who “raises awareness and funds for community issues through his annual Pancake Breakfast and Bike Drive events as well as his continued partnership with the Kid’s First Charity.” Gooding was one of the first African American on-air personalities in Charlotte. He began his career in 1960 and joined WBT 1110 AM in 1971 as the host of the “The Sunday Night Hall of Fame.” He also served as WBT’s director of public affairs for more than 10 years. Boggan joined WBT in 1979 as the host of the nighttime talk show, “Hello Henry,” that featured celebrities and special guests as well as listeners from the local community and became a staple in the city of Charlotte. His program was on air for 17 years until Boggan’s retirement in 1996. Check out the station’s 95th anniversary tribute here.
‘Pubs and Politics’ Live on 77WABC from The Cutting Room. Pictured above, WABC, New York personality Rita Cosby hosts the sold-out “Pubs and Politics” live broadcast event from The Cutting Room in Midtown Manhattan on April 6. The “lively discussion” by WABC talk show hosts revolved around the Trump Administration’s first 100 days. Pictured (from l-r) are: Curtis Sliwa, Lionel, Ron Kuby, Rita Cosby, Sid Rosenberg, and Bernard McGuirk.
KFI, Los Angeles Host Dr. Wendy Walsh Goes Public with Bill O’Reilly Claim. Southern California psychologist, professor and radio host Dr. Wendy Walsh went public on April 3 with her claim of an inappropriate advance by embattled FOX News Channel personality Bill O’Reilly. Walsh hosts an eponymous 4:00 pm to
6:00 pm program on Sundays on iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles. She’s billed as a “thought leader on relationships and the authority on love, sex and romantic relationships.” She and her attorney revealed her claim that during dinner in a Los Angeles restaurant in 2013, O’Reilly invited her to his hotel room. Walsh says she assumed the dinner meeting was about her segment on his “The O’Reilly Factor” and the possibility of a great role with FOX. After she turned down O’Reilly’s offer, her appearances on O’Reilly’s show ended. FOX has stated that the segment was dropped by O’Reilly because of poor ratings. Read the Washington Post account here.
TALKERS News Notes. KIRO-AM, Seattle “710 ESPN” sports talk host (and former Seahawks and University of Washington quarterback) Brock Huard and Bonneville Seattle Media Group are launching a new, original
podcast, “Above and Beyond – The Intersection of Faith and Sports.” The first episode drops today (4/11) featuring former Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck. Huard says, “I am thrilled to get to share my life and faith in a way I never have before, through the medium of podcasts, and even more so through relationships that have shaped my journey. Through my years as an athlete, in real estate and now in the media world I have always thirsted for deep rooted relationships. These podcasts will dig into those encounters with athletes like you’ve never heard before. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from both Bonneville and Compassion International.”…..WTMJ, Milwaukee talk show host Jeff Wagner is heading 
up the station’s “Jeff Wagner Insight 2017” event on April 19 at Country Springs Hotel. Special guests are expected to include Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel and others. Wagner says, “Insight 2017 is my opportunity to go one-on-one with the state’s leaders to get past the headlines and find out what is really going on in Wisconsin.” WTMJ will broadcast the entire three-hour event the following day…..Oink Ink announces the winner of its 18th annual Dead Radio Contest – the annual contest that “aims to give a second chance to great radio scripts that clients deemed too risqué, too zany or were simply overlooked.” This year’s winning submission from Emmanuel Torres, an art director at Cundari’s Toronto offices, is a 60-second spot called “PUSH” for client fixauto.com. Interestingly, Torres had the idea for the script seven years ago in his first advertising class in college. Through the years, he has pitched it numerous times but was never able to convince a client to take such an edgy approach. Oink Ink co-founder Dan Price comments, “Emmanuel’s story – how he actually wrote his script while at ad school – is exactly what this contest is all about.
We’re thrilled to have been able to rescue 18 spots that belonged on the air but for various reasons hadn’t been given the chance.” See Oink Ink here…..Talk host Patzi Gil just celebrated the 2nd anniversary of her book-related radio show “Joy on Paper” (www.radio-joyonpaper.com) that originally launched on WTAN, Clearwater, Florida. The program will soon be featured on the Starcom Radio Network in more than 40 markets across the country. Gil says she expects the show to clear on more than 100 stations by the end of the year.
Syria-Russia Alliance/U.S. Syria Strikes, North Korea Nuclear Program, United Passenger Removal Video, San Bernardino School Shooting, New York’s Free College Plan, FOX News-Bill O’Reilly Scandal, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/10). The alliance between Vladimir Putin and Bashar al Assad and the responses to the U.S. strikes o