Tag: "Paul Rotella"
Seen and Heard at the NAB/RAB Radio Show
By Jeff McKay
Special Features Correspondent
DALLAS — The NAB/RAB Radio Show kicked into a new gear on Wednesday, highlighted by a standing-room-only lunch featuring Entercom CEO David Field, Cumulus CEO Mary Berner, and iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman. A packed schedule of info sessions continued what has become a theme for the radio show – podcasting.
Thursday continues that same trend with info sessions that include a strong focus on sales and podcasting, capped off with the Marconi Awards dinner and show, and the Marconi “after party.”
Monday, April 15, 2019
Brown Parts Ways With iHeartMedia Denver. The approximately 12-year association between talk show host Michael Brown and iHeartMedia Denver has come to an end. While this turn-of-events isn’t something Brown wanted or anticipated, he emphasizes he has “fond memories” of his time in radio and is “looking forward to getting behind the microphone as quickly as possible.” He maintains radio is “a fantastic medium that will never disappear,” and he “readily embraces” the digital aspect of the business. Citing conversations he had with iHeartMedia regional senior vice president of Denver programming JoJo Turnbeaugh, Brown – who served as under-secretary of Homeland Security in both of George W. Bush’s administrations – reports his departure is owing to “format changes.” Brown’s Denver radio career began at news/talk KOA, where he did part-time work before becoming a full-timer. He then spent several years in afternoon drive on news/talk sibling KHOW, and recently returned to KOA. Regarding his highly-publicized experiences during Hurricane Katrina, Brown co-authored June 2011’s “Deadly Indifference, The Perfect (Political) Storm: Hurricane Katrina, The Bush White House, and Beyond.” In it, he criticizes the performance of several people and critiques his own performance by stating that he “failed to be ready for the press and was too timid in his response.” Politically, Brown describes himself as “very clearly center-right, conservative, with a strong libertarian bent.” He appears at #83 on The Talkers Magazine 2018 Heavy Hundred.
Thomas Inducted Into The Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame. In recognition for her career in radio and community service, Entercom Detroit WWJ “News Radio 950” reporter Vickie Thomas was honored yesterday (4/14) in a ceremony at Michigan State University’s Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center. Entercom Detroit senior vice president/market manager Debbie Kenyon states, “For more than 25 years, Vickie Thomas has been informing our listeners on major stories that impact our community in and around Detroit. Vickie is an incredible journalist who isn’t afraid to pose tough questions to city leaders and other officials to report a fair and accurate story. She is well deserving of this honor and we are extremely proud to have Vickie inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame.” Thomas comments, “In thinking about my over 30-year career in radio, with most of that time spent at WWJ, I can’t help but acknowledge all the people who took the time to encourage me and guide me. I’m really a reflection of those outstanding individuals. This award is extremely special because it comes from my peers. I’m blessed to have my body of work in journalism acknowledged by the selection committee; I thank each member who poured over all the applications and deemed me worthy of this honor.” Thomas, who joined WWJ in 1991, has earned awards from the Detroit Press Foundation, the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, the Michigan Associated Press, and the National Association of Black Journalists. She graduated cum laude and with honors in journalism from Wayne State University in 1989.
MONDAY MEMO: The Podcast Consumer 2019. In our on-demand culture, consumers have taken control of their media. We call the audio version “podcasting,” something everyone seems to be doing now. But who is listening? In this week’s Monday Memo, consultant Holland Cooke summarizes the recently released Edison Research “Podcast Consumer 2019” report. Click here to read how he outlines ways radio broadcasters can exploit this trend.
TALKERS News Notes. All remaining regular season and postseason play of the New York City Football Club will air in Spanish on the ESPN app, along with the iHeart and Tune-in apps. In addition, select games of the American professional soccer team will air locally in
New York City on WEPN-AM “ESPN Deportes Radio 1050.” ESPN Radio Group senior vice president Tim McCarthy remarks, “WEPN-AM is proud to be associated with a tremendous brand like NYCFC. We believe giving our listeners a choice on quality play-by-play has tremendous value; this agreement with NYCFC does just that.” NYCFC chief executive officer Brad Sims notes, “We are excited to have our 2019 matches broadcast in Spanish on ESPN Deportes platforms. We want to give our fans many different ways to follow our club. This is a terrific alliance that will make our games even more accessible. New York’s Hispanic community is extremely passionate about soccer and is an integral part of our fanbase, so it continues to be a priority for us to provide Spanish-language presentations. ESPN is a leader in the sports media landscape and we’re looking forward to working together.” Roberto Abramowitz and Ariel Judas will give their commentary throughout the season ….. Changes to take effect in three weeks (5/6) at 
Emmis-owned WFNI “Indy’s Sports Center – The Fan” will find Jeff Rickard and “Big Joe” Staysniak moving from mid-days (10:00 am – 12:00 noon) to morning drive (7:00 am – 10:00 am). “Jeff & Big Joe” will succeed ESPN Radio’s “(Mike) Golic & (Trey) Wingo,” while ESPN Radio’s “Dan Le Batard with Stugotz” will inherit the vacated 10:00 am – 12:00 noon slot …. A nine-year program director of iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “Cleveland’s Country 99.5,” Charley Connolly is named operations manager of Cumulus Media’s eight Youngstown stations and will be the day-to-day 
PD of country WQXK “K-105” there. Cumulus Youngstown vice president/market manager Bill Kelly comments, “We are fortunate to have someone of Charley’s background available to us in Youngstown. This is going to be fun.” In addition to WGAR, Connolly programmed iHeartMedia Cleveland’s adult hits WHLK “106.5 The Lake.” Prior to that, he performed similar responsibilities for Cumulus Media Nashville’s news/talk WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” and country WSM-FM “95.5 Nash Icon.” In addition to WPIC “News Talk 790,” WBBW “Sports Radio 1240 AM,” and WLLF “Sports Radio 96.7 FM,” Cumulus Media Youngstown consists of aforementioned WQXK; CHR WHOT “Hot 101”; classic rock WYFM “Y-103”; classic country WSOM “America’s Music”; and classic hits-oldies WWIZ “Z-104.” ….. Approximately 250 guests attended last Friday’s (4/12) eleventh annual “Hurley in the Morning” charity dinner and silent auction, which raised $40,000. Fox News Radio’s Todd Starnes keynoted the festivities at Atlantic 
City’s Resorts Casino – Hotel. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from the highest levels of government, business, and industry sectors,” declares Townsquare Media Atlantic City news/talk WPGG morning talent Harry Hurley. “Todd is a kind and generous friend. He is such a well-respected talent and a wonderful gentleman. Todd took the time to greet every guest, making each one feel like the most important person in the Ocean Ballroom.” Resorts 
Casino – Hotel president/chief executive officer Mark Giannantonio opines, “Harry could take his iconic event anywhere – it was truly spectacular. Todd Starnes was engaging and entertaining. Our audience enjoyed his humble, friendly, and unifying message. Resorts was happy and proud to once again host this charity dinner and we look forward to hosting Harry’s event again next year.” Starnes did his 12:00 noon – 3:00 pm Fox News Radio talk show onsite. Among dignitaries attending were congressman Jefferson Van Drew; New Jersey Senate president Stephen Sweeney; New Jersey Broadcasters Association president Paul Rotella; and current and past New Jersey state legislature members. Ahead is Hurley’s twelfth annual charity golf open (6/21) in Egg Harbor Township (New Jersey) ….. Following his tenure as Reach Media’s integrated ad sales 
coordinator, Erick Vilson joins Sun Broadcast Group as national account manager and will be based in New York City. Sun Broadcast Group chief operating officer Julio Aponte, Jr. comments, “I was very impressed with Erick’s background, reputation, and his dedication to excellence. Bringing someone with his digital and event experience on-board will allow our team to offer greater business opportunities for our agencies and a deeper connection with our national audience for our advertisers.” Vilson notes, “Becoming part of the Sun Broadcast Group family is a fantastic opportunity. Their reputation in the industry, new approach to business, and clever ways to market their offerings was very attractive to me. I am very excited to bring my experience to the sales team.” Vilson has held sales and operation positions for iHeartMedia and Emmis.
Mueller Report Anticipation, College Admissions Scandal, 2020 Presidential Race, Assange Case Free Speech Implications Top Stories Discussed on News/Talk Radio This Weekend. According to the research of TALKERS, news/talk shows across the country this weekend (4/13-14) were largely focused on the topics of anticipation of the Robert Mueller Report’s planned delivery to Congress this Thursday, the next level of the College Admissions Scandal and charges filed against celebrity participants, the 2020 Presidential Race, and the Julian Assange Case’s implications on free speech and the free press going forward.
Progressive Talk Radio Champ Thom Hartmann Is Guest on Harrison Podcast. What is the state of progressive news/talk radio on the commercial and non-commercial dial? What is the liberal talk radio view of the early competition in a crowded field of hopefuls vying for the 2020 Democratic Party presidential nomination? And what is the general status of the “Left” in American politics in 2019? Nationally syndicated radio talk show host Thom Hartmann – consistently ranked the most important progressive talk radio host on the TALKERS Heavy Hundred – is the guest on the award-winning
PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Harrison and Hartmann (heard daily 12:00 noon – 3:00 pm ET) tackle these and other pertinent issues in an illuminating conversation that gets right to the heart of today’s talk media landscape. Harrison states, “Thom Hartmann has not only earned the respect of people on all sides of the political spectrum for his authentic, even-handed approach to today’s issues from the liberal perspective, but the unique and aggressive multi-platform distribution paradigm that he and his team have developed over the years stands as a model for independent radio syndication of all ideological stripes going forward into the digital era. The radio industry should pay attention to this innovative broadcaster.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and every page on Talkers.com.
Survey Says: Social Media Use Unchanged. Notwithstanding privacy controversies, “fake news,” and social media censorship, the share of adults in the United States who say they use certain online platforms or apps is statistically the same as it was this time last year. That is the conclusion of a Pew Research Center study conducted January 8 to February 7 (2019). The shares of adults who say they use Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Twitter are each basically the same as in 2016. Instagram, however, shows an uptick during this same timeframe, growing from 35% of adults to 37%. Roughly seven of every ten adults in this country say they still use Facebook; nearly three of every ten visit Pinterest; and more than one of every five are Twitter users. Of all Facebook users, approximately three of every four visit the site every day – half check that platform several times a day. Those particular numbers identically mirror Pew’s 2018 survey results. At the same time, YouTube use remained at 73%, while LinkedIn users went from 25% to 27%. Slightly more than half of YouTube users (51%) visit the site daily – up from the 45% who said the same in 2018. According to the report, Instagram and Snapchat are especially popular with younger adults, with Instagram used by two of every three 18 – 29-year-olds and Snapchat used by slightly more than two of every five (62%) people in that demo.
Lilly Broadcasting Becomes A Radio Player. As a result of paying $900,000 for three Warren (Pennsylvania) stations it is acquiring from Frank Iorio’s Radio 
Partners LLC, San Luis Obispo, California-based Lilly Broadcasting enters the radio business. The three Warren-area outlets involved are WNAE “News Talk 96.7,” classic hits-oldies WRRN “92 Gold,” and WKNB “Kinzua Country 104.3.” Lilly owns television facilities in Honolulu, Erie (Pennsylvania), Elmira (New York), Marquette (Michigan), and the Caribbean. According to Lilly Broadcasting president Kevin Lilly, “The Warren radio properties create synergies with our current footprint in our Pennsylvania television DMA, comprised of Erie, Warren, and Crawford counties. They will allow us to better serve our viewers and now our radio listeners while in their homes, cars, and online. We look forward to providing the best content available for our listeners and will improve the news, weather, and sports information on all platforms.”
San Antonio’s New Vibe. KXTN “Tejano & Proud,” San Antonio transitions to KVBH “Vibe 107.5.” Of the rhythmic hot AC presentation that will mix “pop, hip-hop, and R&B artists from the 1980s and early-2000s,” Univision San Antonio vice president and general manager
Chris Morris states, “We are excited to launch a brand-new format that reflects the distinct musical tastes of San Antonio – one of the most diverse communities in the nation. By reformatting and optimizing our audio portfolio, we are able to better serve our audience and give them more of the content they love.” In conjunction with the format flip, the “Tejano & Proud” format shifts to a simulcast on KVBH-HD2 and KCOR, while “Univision Deportes Radio” moves from KCOR to KROM-HD3. Among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s February 2019 survey period, KXTN ranks #14 (3.1). Its February 2018 through February 2019 high was 4.0 (6+) in February 2018.
More Than A Million Smiles. As part of its fourth annual “Laugh United: A Night of Cocktails and Comedy,” Westwood One’s “The Bob & Tom Show” raised a record $1,053,500 in Vienna, West Virginia for the United Way Alliance of the Mid-Ohio Valley. Pictured here is show cast member Josh Arnold who performed with fellow veteran touring comics Greg Hahn, Jack Freeman, and Henry Phillips. Parkersburg (West Virginia) rocker WHBR “103.1 The Bear” is the local “Bob & Tom Show” affiliate.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. After nearly four years with iHeartMedia Denver CHR KPTT “95.7 The Party,” morning driver J.J. Kincaid (of “JJ & Nina”) departs. Immediately in advance of his Denver stint, Kincaid had a nine-year afternoon drive run in New York at co-owned/similarly-formatted WHTZ “Z-100” and spent three years in Dallas at another iHeartMedia CHR, KHKS “106.1 Kiss-FM” ….. On the heels of Beasley Media Group Boston flipping WBOS from “Alt 92.9” to “Rock 92.9” last Thursday (4/11), the station eliminates the music director position that was held by Joel Weiss, who exits. After having spent 13 years in a similar position at Cox Media Group Tampa’s WSUN, 
Weiss joined WBOS less than a year ago ….. Formerly the program director/afternoon drive talent at Martz Communications Group-owned WAMO “Pittsburgh’s #1 for Hip-Hop,” Jonathan Steele, will join Beasley Media Group Detroit’s WMGC “105.1 The Bounce” next Monday (4/22) as afternoon drive personality, using the air name “J. Steele.” According to WMGC vice president and market manager Mac Edwards, “When we heard J.’s demo, he jumped to the top of our list. Having the opportunity to meet him and discover his impressive skill set as both a person and personality, there was no denying J. Steele was the right talent at the right time to help us write the next chapter of success.” Program director John Candelaria comments, “We are very impressed with J.’s experience and his strong desire to entertain the listeners in Detroit. I am excited to hear his high energy interactive show and see him earn the community’s respect.” Steele adds, “This is the job I dreamed about as a little kid. I am beyond excited to light up the airwaves for this incredible radio station.” The revised weekday “Bounce” line-up includes: “The Gello Show with Joanna” (6:00 am – 10:00 am); J. Steele (3:00 pm – 7:00 pm); and DJ Dinero (7:00 pm – 12:00 midnight) ….. With Emmis Indianapolis’ WLHK “97.1 Hank FM” ever since the country outlet launched in 2005, morning talent Dave O’Brien exits, as his contract isn’t renewed. O’Brien started his Indianapolis radio career in 1996 at WRZX, later going to WNOU for two years and to WENS in 2004 ….. Jazz KUVO, Denver program and content director Nikki Swarn is appointed PD for Rocky Mountain Public 
Media‘s new R&B/hip-hop streaming service, “The Drop.” Swarn comments, “It is such an honor to get to serve the Colorado community through this incredible opportunity. We anticipate engaging Coloradans with an exciting blend of their favorite artists, while providing a platform for new and Colorado-based musicians as well. The audience consuming R&B and hip-hop is vast and hungry for dynamic experiences in music; we want to fill that void.” Swarn previously was Entercom Denver’s director of promotions and marketing and spent six years as Max Media Denver’s director of marketing and promotions ….. In separate fundraisers for 
their respective communities, two Alpha Media country-formatted properties (WFLS and KZKX) recently combined to bring in nearly $200,000. Completing its eleventh year of working with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, WFLS “93.3 – Today’s Country,” Fredericksburg (Virginia) accounted for $135,479 in a two-day event hosted by the station’s morning team – Steve & Jessica. That figure broke WFLS’ previous records. Alpha Media market manager Beth Vickers states, “It is a privilege to lead a team of individuals who are passionate about helping others. Steve & Jessica were amazing hosts, pulling long hours to make it all happen. Our community and our listeners were so generous with donations – results like this make a difference.” Meanwhile, co-owned/similarly-formatted KZKX “KX-96.9,” Lincoln (Nebraska) – along with the Starlite Event Center – raised over $60,000 for American Red Cross flood 
relief during a one-night (3/29) benefit concert. Entertainment was provided by local bands Dylan Bloom, Bucka Ruse, and Sack of Lions. Alpha Media Lincoln operations manager Rob Kelley comments, “That night was a humbling experience as the people of Saunders County and surrounding areas – many of them flood victims themselves – came together with auction items and monetary donations to go directly to their friends, family, and neighbors. We are so blessed to have listeners like this in the KZKX family.” Severe flooding began impacting Nebraska in mid-March. The “KX-96.9” donation check was presented to the American Red Cross last Thursday (4/11).
Monday, June 4, 2018
Former Buckley Broadcasting President and CEO Joseph Bilotta Dead at 69. Former Buckley Broadcasting president and CEO Joseph Bilotta died on Friday (6/1) at Connecticut Hospice. Bilotta served as chief of Buckley Broadcasting when it operated venerable New York talk station WOR and the WOR Radio Network. TALKERS magazine learned of Bilotta’s passing via New Jersey Broadcasters Association president and CEO Paul Rotella, who issued the following statement to his organization: “It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that Joe Bilotta passed away this afternoon. As you know, Joe was a great friend and supporter of our association and he, along with Bob McCallan, Andy Santoro, and Elizabeth Christopherson comprised the search committee that ultimately offered me the privilege of representing this wonderful association. Joe was a constant source of support, advice, and guidance. His wise counsel and friendship meant a lot to all of us on the Board, but most especially me. He was always available to help.”
Premiere Networks to Distribute Nancy Grace Daily Feature. Legal media figure and former HLN personality Nancy Grace and iHeartMedia’s Premiere
Networks are partnering to syndicate a new, daily feature focusing on current crime news. The 60-second program launches July 23. This show is called “Crime Alert with Nancy Grace.” She says, “I’m thrilled to join iHeartMedia and Premiere Networks where I will continue my lifelong mission to fight crime and speak for those who can no longer speak for themselves. This new platform expands my ability to shine a light on heinous crimes, help find missing people — particularly children — arm listeners with need-to-know information and catch the bad guys.”
Mike Morgan Named SVP of Sales for iHeartMedia Raleigh. At its Raleigh station group, iHeartMedia names Mike Morgan senior vice president of
sales. The Raleigh cluster includes news/talk WTKK-FM “106.1 FM Talk,” plus four music-formatted stations. Raleigh market president 
Alan Kirshbom says, “Mike is the total package. He brings extensive radio experience, subject matter expertise in digital, and a stellar track record of serving and developing business in key categories. With Mike joining the Raleigh team, we are stronger than ever.” Morgan joins iHeartMedia Raleigh after previously serving as director of new business development and account manager at Sokal Media Group. He also previously served as general manager for Capital Broadcasting in Raleigh.
Dan Mason Joins VSiN as Strategic Advisor and Investor. Most industry pros are aware of VSiN (Vegas Stats & Information Network), founded by Brian and Todd Musberger and home to brother Brent Musberger’s daily
program “The Brent Musberger Action Update.” Now, former CBS RADIO chief Dan Mason is joining the media network dedicated to sports gambling information. The company is announcing a partnership with Mason in which he’ll join the company as strategic advisor and investor participating in all aspects of the company’s operations. Brian Musberger says, “With decades of experience in the media industry, Dan brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. We are excited to leverage his expertise to drive continued growth at VSiN, capitalizing on the incredible opportunity presented by the burgeoning sports gambling industry. His overall enthusiasm for our product brings an energy level to the room that is contagious.” Mason is currently chairman of the Broadcasters Foundation of America and serves as a senior advisor to iHeartMedia. The press release from VSiN says it “broadcasts as many as 13 hours of live programming a day from a showcase studio in the middle of the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.”
Beasley Radio Talent Institute Begins Today at Emerson College in Boston. Getting underway today at Emerson College in Boston and running through June 13 is the Beasley Radio Talent Institute. Conducting the
opening session are Beasley CEO Caroline Beasley and EVP/COO Brian Beasley. They follow opening comments from the president of Emerson College, Dr. Lee Pelton. Sessions taking place over the next 10 days will be taught by working radio pros from Beasley and other radio groups, including Entercom, iHeartMedia, Hall Communications, and more, as well as play-by- play announcers 
for the Patriots, Celtics, Bruins and Red Sox. National Radio Talent System president and founder Dan Vallie comments, “From the beginning, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley grasped the vision and immediately stepped up. They are a company that does the right thing in our industry. We are proud to be working together to continue growing the farm system, discovering, coaching and incubating young talent with a passion for radio. It’s a privilege to be able to do this with Emerson College and to be working with forward thinking companies like Xperi, Marketron, Benztown, and Vcreative to help make it happen.” Jack Casey, general manager of WERS-FM and adjunct professor at Emerson College, says, “The Beasley Radio Talent Institute builds upon the quality education students are already receiving at their academic institutions and through working at their college radio stations. We are grateful to Beasley Media Group for providing this incredible opportunity for future broadcasters.”
Witness List for Nielsen vs Bubba the Love Sponge Case Released. The $1 million suit brought against Bubba the Love Sponge by Nielsen for ratings tampering is expected to go to trial on Monday, June 18. On Friday, the court released the final witness lists from both parties. Of course, Bubba himself is on both lists, as are a number of broadcasters, including Beasley’s Justin Chase and Brian Beasley. On Bubba’s list is former Clear Channel and Tribune chief Randy Michaels. Also, on both lists is PPM panelist Nicholas Tabachuck – with whom Bubba is alleged to have colluded to tamper with the ratings.
TALKERS News Notes. Atlantic City talk radio personality Harry Hurley announces he’ll be filling in on the FOX News Radio Network, guest hosting
the Todd Starnes show on June 12 from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET. WPGG Talk Radio’s Hurley says, “I want to take this opportunity to thank Todd Starnes, who is literally one of the classiest and most generous broadcasters in our business.”……….San Francisco sports talker KNBR announces that as part of its new multi-year agreement with Major League Baseball’s Giants, the team is the first to offer free, in-market live streaming of 
its radio broadcasts. The live stream is being delivered by TuneIn. Cumulus Media San Francisco EVP of operations Dave Milner comments, “KNBR and Cumulus Media are proud to continue our 40-year partnership with the San Francisco Giants. At the same time, we’re extremely excited to announce that KNBR, in partnership with TuneIn, will be the first radio station in Major League Baseball to offer Giants fans the ability to stream the games, live and free of charge in Northern California. Now every Giants game broadcast over the air on KNBR 680, will also be heard online at knbr.com, or the KNBR channel on TuneIn’s mobile app.”…..Sports radio pro Dan Graca is expanding his role WEPN “98.7 ESPN New York” as he joins the New York Jets game day radio team. Graca will work this season alongside former Jets linebacker Greg Buttle during the pre-game, halftime, and post-game radio shows. He’ll continue as regular contributor on ESPN Radio and SNY-TV, including “Loudmouths,” “Daily News Live,” and “Baseball Night in New York.” Graca says, “You could say this is a job I’ve spent my whole life preparing for. Growing up a New York Jets season ticket holder for 23 years, going from Section 302, Row 26 to now becoming a part of the game-day broadcast is nothing short of surreal. It is impossible to fully express the gratitude and excitement that comes along with this opportunity.”…..At last weekend’s Chesapeake Associated Press Broadcasters Association Awards, WTOP-FM, Washington was presented with 12 honors, including for Outstanding News Operation and for Best Website for WTOP.com. WTOP director of news and programming Mike McMearty says, “These awards are a testament to what an incredibly talented team we have here at WTOP. Across a wide range of specialties from digital to sports, documentaries to feature stories our people are what set us apart. We feel honored to be able to share in their success.”…..WDEL-FM/AM, Wilmington received seven awards from the Chesapeake AP Broadcasters Association on Saturday (6/2) in Ocean City, Maryland. The awards in the Div. II classification (markets 51+) included the top award of News Operation of the Year, as well as Best Newscast, Best Website and Best Talk Show for Rick Jensen. Pictured below at the ceremony are (from l-r): WDEL breaking news reporter Mike Phillips, director of news and programming Chris Carl, assistant news director Amy Cherry, talk show host Rick Jensen, and contributing correspondent Rob Petree.
Geoffrey Starks Nominated for FCC Seat. We have a nomination for the Federal Communications Commission seat begin vacated by Mignon Clyburn. Current FCC Enforcement Bureau assistant chief Geoffrey Starks gets the nod. Democrat Starks had been supported for the seat by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Starks’ confirmation will take place in the next few months and will coincide with the vote on the reconfirmation of Republican commissioner Brendan Carr.
Trump Self Pardon/Russia Investigation, North Korea Summit, Iran Nuclear Deal, Portland Antifa Violence, Parkland H.S. Graduation, Facebook Data Deals, Italian Populist Government, NBA Finals, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and Rudy Giuliani’s statement that President Trump could pardon himself; the status of the summit between President Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the repercussions of the U.S.’s exit from the Iran nuclear deal; the violence in Portland as Antifa forces clash with those at a Patriot Prayer rally; the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School graduation and Jimmy Fallon’s surprise appearance there; story reveals Facebook shared user data with many partners; unease in Europe as Italy swears in new, populist government; the Warriors-Cavaliers NBA Finals; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Cumulus Media’s country WKKO-FM, Toledo “K100,” 33-year program director Gary Shores hands the PD baton to Jerry Mac. Shores, who has
been with the station for total of 43 years, will continue his role as morning show host. Mac comes to Toledo from Community 
Broadcasters’ operations in Elmira, New York where he was operations manager. Cumulus RVP and market manager Andy Stuart says, “We celebrate and honor Gary Shore’s unprecedented and highly successful run as ‘K100’ program director. Gary has been an essential part of the station’s continued growth and popularity and we are deeply grateful for his dedication and contributions over the past 43 years and counting. We are thrilled Gary will stay on as host of ‘K100 Mornings!’”…..CMT and iHeartMedia are collaborating so that iHeartCountry will once again serve as the official radio partner of the 2018 CMT Music Awards and will simulcast the live show from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday (6/8) at 8:00 pm ET/PT. The live radio broadcast will air across more than 120 iHeartCountry music radio stations. In addition, Premiere Networks will engage those stations and Premiere-syndicated affiliates at the exclusive radio remote broadcast in Nashville today and tomorrow to help kick off the “hottest night in country music.” “CMT After MidNite with Cody Alan,” “The Bobby Bones Show,” and “The Crook & Chase Countdown” are on-location to provide listeners with interviews with award nominees, performers and celebrity guests…..Pictured below is country artist Kane Brown with Beasley Media Group staffers at WKLB, Boston’s “Street Party” where more than 8,000 listeners showed up to party on Lansdowne Street adjacent to Fenway Park. Performers included Brown, Cam, Lanco, Brown & Gray, Stephanie Quayle, and local performer Timmy Brown. From left to right are: Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley, Ilana Goldstein, Kane Brown, Brian Beasley, Beasley Media Group VP/market manager Mary Menna, and Joel Banos Carranza.
Wednesday, January 10, 2018
Joe ‘Pags’ Show Hits 100-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated “Joe Pags Show” arrives at the 100-affiliate mark with the addition of KPAM, Portland to its affiliate roster. Joe Pagliarulo’s WOAI, San Antonio-based program is syndicated
by Compass Media Networks. Salem Media Group SVP/spoken word format Phil Boyce comments, “Years ago a young TV anchor in Albany called me to ask how he could get into talk radio. That was Joe Pags. I figured it was a passing fantasy, but no, he was serious. What an honor to be his 100th affiliate in Portland at our newest talk station. Our listeners there are in for a real treat. And congrats Joe, you made it!” Pags adds, “It’s an absolute thrill to add such a great station like KPAM in a top market like Portland! For this powerhouse to also be my 100th affiliate and to once again be working with Phil Boyce is truly humbling.”
Save the Date – TALKERS 2018 Set for NYC. The date has been set for the 21st annual installment of the longest-running and most important national talk media industry convention. TALKERS 2018 will take place on Friday, June 8, 2018 in New York City. Initial details covering venue, registration and sponsorship information will be posted here on Talkers.com this Friday. Save the date, this promises to be one of the most exciting and dynamic installments in the history of this iconic radio-oriented event.
Rob Stadler Gone From Mornings at WYAY, Atlanta. As reported by the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Rodney Ho, Cumulus Media’s WYAY-FM, Atlanta “News Radio 106.7” parted ways with Rob Stadler – host of the morning news program – at the end of 2017. Ho reports that WYAY program director Tom Lee has not named 
a successor to the Stadler-hosted program, but Ho suspects the new program will be more of a talk show than a news show. This for the station that launched in 2012 as an all-news outlet. Talk radio pros Mike Brooks and Rob Carson have been filling in hosting the AM drive program. For his part, Stadler told Ho in a text, “The last two years have been a lot of fun, but my sights are now set on a new position that doesn’t require a 1 a.m. wake-up! Can’t talk about it right now but soon…I sincerely wish the talk and news talent at WYAY-FM the very best for future success!”
KKFN, Denver Adds More Local Content. There’s more local sports talk on Bonneville’s KKFN-FM, Denver “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” with the extension of the “Pritchard and Cecil” program and the addition of a Sandy Clough-hosted evening show. Well-known Denver sports voice Sandy Clough begins hosting a
9:00 pm to 11:00 pm program on January 16. Effective immediately, the “Pritchard and Cecil” program – co-hosted by Mike Pritchard and Cecil Lammey – is airing from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. KKFN program director Armen Williams states, “Broncos country and the Denver sports community has shown us there’s a clear demand from ‘104.3 The Fan’ for more local sports talk. We’re excited to give our audience even more of an opportunity to feed their passion on a daily basis. It’s something they both yearn for and deserve. Sandy Clough is an institution in the Denver sports radio market. In the evening, Denver sports fans are looking for an outlet, and having Sandy on from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm will allow him to not only give perspective on Broncos headlines but also provide postgame reaction to the Rockies, Nuggets, Avalanche, and other Denver sports events.”
Longtime WGN, Chicago Talk Host Milt Rosenberg Passes at 92. Legendary Chicago radio host Milt Rosenberg died yesterday (1/9)
after complications from pneumonia at the age of 92. Rosenberg was a University of Chicago psychology professor who hosted the evening “Extension 720” program on Tribune’s WGN from 1973 through his “forced retirement” in 2012. Read Chicago media writer Robert Feder’s obit for Rosenberg here.
Report from CES 2018. Media consultant Holland Cooke is in Las Vegas at the enormous CES 2018, presented by the Consumer Technology Association. He’s filing reports from Sin City in TALKERS magazine all week. Check out his notes from yesterday’s action here.
PodcastOne and AP Team Up for Sports Coverage. A new relationship between PodcastOne SportsNet and AP promises to provide reports from national and international sporting events, beginning with the Winter Olympics in South Korea next month. This deal also includes new PodcastOne and AP content, with some premiering as soon as this week. Additionally, “Red Circle Sports with Dennis 
Miller,” “Riggle’s Picks,” “Real GM” and others will be added to PodcastOne SportsNet lineup. PodcastOne chairman Norm Pattiz says, “This will provide AP and PodcastOne subscribers with real-time, daily news reports, commentary and original content. It will provide additional power to the explosive growth of podcasting, while taking maximum advantage of the unmatched connection to listeners that podcasts already provide. AP Sports is everywhere with on-the-ground, first-hand coverage that will now be available via podcasts as never before.” Content produced by AP and PodcastOne SportsNet will be distributed on AP platforms, as well as PodcastOne.com and the PodcastOne app.
Brendan Carr Nominated for Full FCC Term. Republican FCC commissioner Brendan Carr is being nominated for a full, five-year term on the Commission.
Based on comments from fellow commissioners – including FCC chairman Ajit Pai – Carr has the support of the rest of the commission. New Jersey Broadcasters Association president Paul Rotella says in a supportive statement to Senator Cory Booker, “To be sure, Commissioner Carr is a dedicated public servant. He has been a very responsive and concerned FCC Commissioner, sensitive to the issues brought to his attention by the NJBA. Moreover, his courteous response to our communications translates to his committed staff and we are grateful for their service to our great industry.”
TALKERS News Notes. The latest station to add the Radio America-syndicated “Chad Benson Show” is Bonneville’s KTAR-FM, Phoenix. Radio America says
KTAR-FM joins a growing list of affiliates that includes KSTE-AM, Sacramento; WIBC-FM, Indianapolis; WDBO-FM, Orlando; KRMG-AM/FM, Tulsa; and KTSA-AM, San Antonio among others. Bonneville Phoenix VP of content and operations Ryan Hatch comments, “Chad is an incredible talent who will talk about the political headwinds in America, plus deliver his unique views on other real-life issues that the Valley cares about. From the economy to social media, to different things working people experience daily, he is a wonderful storyteller on a mission to entertain. We’re also excited to be partnering with the team at Radio America as they continue to deliver the best of the next generation of talk programming.”…..Saga Communications’ Cayuga Radio Group names John Summers brand manager and news director for news/talk WHCU, Ithaca, New York, effective January 22. 
Summers was most recently regional program director and news director for Northwest News Radio Network and the Washington Ag Network…..With the decision by Breitbart News to part ways with Stephen K. Bannon – who served briefly with the Trump Administration as a senior adviser to the president – his work hosting the “Breitbart News Radio” program that airs on SiriusXM’s Patriot channel also ends. SiriusXM announced the separation yesterday (1/9)…..AdLarge Media’s digital audio division for podcasting, streaming, and advertising – dubbed “cabana” – publishes its comprehensive, easy-to-understand guidebook to helping podcasters and their advertisers meet their marketing goals. AdLarge says the report “includes a glossary of terms with clear, concise descriptions of the different advertising options in podcasting and spotlights how each of them can deliver specific benefits to a campaign.”
Trump DACA Rollback, Bannon-Breitbart Split, Fire and Fury Book, Trump Russia Dossier, De Niro Trump Rant, California Mud Slides, North-South Korea Talks, Arpaio Senate Run, Alabama Wins CFC in Overtime, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/9). The attempt by the Trump Administration to roll back the Obama-era DACA and a judge’s ruling to stay that move; Stephen K. Bannon splits from executive post at Breitbart News; the ongoing controversy over Michael Wolff’s Fire and Fury book; the Donald Trump Russia dossier and the new suit by Trump lawyers against BuzzFeed and Fusion GPS; actor Robert De Niro’s rant against President Trump at an awards ceremony; the deadly California mudslides; the talks between North and South Korea and South Korean President Moon Jae-in’s giving credit to President Trump for forcing the talks; former Arizona sheriff Joe Arpaio announces plans to run for U.S. Senate; Alabama beats Georgia in overtime to win the College Football Championship; and the NFL 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. The new morning show at Entercom Communications’ CHR KAMP, Los Angeles “97.1 AMP Radio” is the duo of Edgar Sotelo and Brian Moote, effective February. Entercom’s
SVP/market manager Jeff Federman says, “We are thrilled to be able to bring together Edgar and Brian on ‘AMP Radio.’ Both of them are smart, genuine and funny and we look forward to watching them make a huge 
impact in LA – on air, on-site at local events and on social media.” Edgar Sotelo previously served as the morning show host at WBMP, New York “AMP Radio.” Brian Moote exited his gig with the Atlanta-based, syndicated “The Bert Show” to take this new gig…..RadioInfo sources in New York say Cumulus Media hot AC WPLJ has removed Rick Gillette from the program director role at the station. We are also hearing that Gillette is being offered the chance to remain with the company in another capacity. Assistant program director Mike Allan is now acting PD for “95.5 PLJ.”…..Rock programmer Garett Michaels joins Local Media
San Diego’s alternative XTRA, San Diego “91X” as program director. Michaels’ work in the San Diego market includes his most recent stint with Local Media San Diego and Midwest Television at rock KFM-BFM and almost 10 years programming alternative KBZT. He also programmed alternative KNDD, Seattle “107.7 The End” from 2013 through 2015. He says, “After spending the last year consulting and working with the team, I couldn’t be more excited to officially join Local Media San Diego. It’s an honor to be a part of ‘91X,’ a station that represents the San Diego lifestyle, has deep roots serving our local community, and is truly one of the icons of the alternative format.”…..Speaking of Entercom’s alternative KBZT, San Diego, the station names Chris Patyk program director. Patyk has been programming sister stations CHR KEGY “Energy” and adult contemporary KYXY…..The nationally syndicated Michael Baisden show announces it has hired award-winning broadcast journalist and radio personality Dominique DiPrima to serve as co-host. She hosted the daily news and public affairs show “Front Page” on KJLH-FM, Los Angeles. DiPrima will also hold the title of senior producer…..Canadian Music Week announces that Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley will be a featured speaker at the “A Radio Executive’s View” from the “Corner Office” Super Session on Friday, May 11 at the two-day Radio Interactive Summit taking place on May 10-11.
PPM Analysis: Country. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the 6+ ratings performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s December 2017 PPM survey, today focusing on country. During this period – November 6 to December 9 – many music stations were adding Christmas music to their rotations and that could be a factor in the comparison of November 2017 data to December 2017 data. Kinosian reports, “Approximately one of every four stations (26%) on our country sample is up between November 2017 – December 2017, while 63% experience decreases; the remaining 11% of the panel remains unchanged. Comparing December 2016 to December 2017 ratings, “Roughly half the stations on this country panel are down year-to-year (49%) and nearly as many (43%) are up; the remaining 8% are steady.” Two country outlets in PPM markets ranked #1 in their respective markets during the December 2017 survey – iHeartMedia’s WCOL, Columbus and WQIK, Jacksonville. See the entire report here.
Local Radio Is on Alert
By Paul Rotella
NJBA
President/CEO
MONROE TWP, N.J. — The Blizzard of March 2017 is only a few hours away. Soon, snow will begin to cover the Garden State. Predictions range from 6-24 plus inches, with the hidden treachery of an icy, wintery mix perhaps suppressing snow totals, but proving to be deceivingly dangerous. High winds, wet snow, sleet and ice, will surely give rise to downed power lines and cell phone disruptions, But don’t worry New Jersey: Your local radio broadcaster is on-the-air!
Right now, New Jersey’s dedicated broadcasters, always eager to serve, are already manning their posts, anticipating the storm and its aftermath, and ready to once again go into the breach, serving their audiences by historically providing them with the only source for important and perhaps life saving information they will need to prepare and make ready for the blizzard, and more importantly, to help the communities they serve get back to normal once the skies clear.
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Washington Post Writes About the Evolving Glenn Beck. Industry watchers and regular TALKERS readers are aware of Premiere Networks syndicated talk radio star Glenn Beck’s long-held distaste for President 
Donald Trump. Throughout the election, Beck was a Never Trumper and it was the focus of his radio show during that period. Now he’s walking a difficult road of staying true to his self-described libertarian principles while expressing regret for how he conducted himself for so many years. Beck and his efforts to make amends for the things he’s said and done in the past is the focus of a feature piece in the Washington Post by senior editor Marc Fisher. Not only has Beck changed how he approaches his radio and TV shows, he’s going out on the road with some heretofore very unlikely company. Read the Post piece here.
Bye Partnered with Stokley on KKFN, Denver. Moving from Townsquare Media’s sports talker WTMM,
Albany “104.5 The Team” to Bonneville’s sports KKFN, Denver “104.3 The Fan” is Zach Bye. He partners with Brandon Stokley for the 12:00 nooon to 3:00 pm “Stokley and Zach” show, effective March 31. In addition to co-hosting the “Big Board Sports” show on WTMM, Bye served for the past seven years as a play-by-play and color analyst for University of Albany sports radio broadcasts. KKFN program director Armen Williams states, “After a national search, we were thrilled to find the perfect fit for Brandon and ‘104.3 The Fan’ in Zach.
GOP ObamaCare Alternative, Obama Wiretapping Accusations, Trump’s Budget Proposal, North Korea Missile Threats, Tennessee Sues Federal Government, Northeast Snowstorm, and March Madness Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/13). The Trump Administration/GOP’s alternative to the Affordable Care Act; the ongoing debate over what President Trump meant by his accusation that President Obama wiretapped the Trump Tower during the 2016 campaign; the Trump Administration’s federal budget proposal and its effort to shrink Washington’s administrative power; North Korea’s nuclear missile program and related tensions between China and the U.S.; Tennessee sues the federal government over the latter’s refugee resettlement program; the late-winter blizzard hitting the Northeast today; and the NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Rotella: Local Radio Is on Alert. Local radio advocate – and president and CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association – Paul Rotella, is using today’s winter storm affecting the Northeast to point out the positives of local, terrestrial radio – and advocate for the broad activation of the FM chip and the prevention of any Performance Tax. Read his letter to members of the NJBA and the industry here.
Alana Lynn Joins KMLE, Phoenix for Afternoons/Music Director Post. Phoenix country outlet KMLE @ 107.9 announces Alana Lynn takes over the music director and afternoon personality
position at the CBS RADIO station. She assumes the duties from Bryan “B-Dub” Washington, who’s exiting for new position elsewhere. CBS RADIO Phoenix VP of programming Tim Richards comments, “Alana is an amazing talent and we couldn’t be more excited for her to join the KMLE family.” She was most recently morning personality at Townsquare Media’s classic hits KTRR, Loveland, Colorado “Tri 102.5” and midday host at sister country KUAD “K99.”
Tony Russell Joins ‘McKinzie & Jake’ on ‘98.7 The Bull’ in Portland. Effective Monday (3/20), radio pro
Tony Russell becomes part of the KUPL, Portland “98.7 The Bull” morning drive show with current AM show personalities McKinzie Roth and Jake Byron. KUPL program director MoJoe Roberts comments, “Tony’s passion for super-serving the community line up with the core values of Alpha Media. He brings a wealth of experience, a great sense of humor and is no stranger to our audience. We’re thrilled to turn him loose with ‘McKinzie & Jake’ in mornings.”
Demery to Program KINK, Portland. Radio pro Sean Demery is the new program director at Alpha Media’s triple A KINK, Portland. Alpha Media VP of programming Scott Mahalick says, “Sean is a world class 
programmer, digital maverick, and talent coach who gets the vibe of Portland and will be dedicated full-time to the growth of KINK. We are looking forward to Sean’s impact in taking us to new heights.” Demery has served with stations across the country including: WNNX, Atlanta; KITS, San Francisco; KMTT, Seattle; KXRK & KLRZ, Salt Lake City; WYMS, Milwaukee; and KGGI, Riverside/San Bernardino. Demery comments, “101.9 KINK? Are you kidding? It’s already a great station. I look forward to working with the crew to make it an indisputable cultural landmark. I also look forward to exploring and eating at all the cool places that have been taunting me from Sunset magazine.”
KMGA, Albuquerque Names Simmons PD/PM Host; Adds Durocher to AM Show. Albuquerque adul
t contemporary KMGA “99.5 Magic FM” announces the addition of Bryan Simmons to the staff as 
program director and afternoon drive host and on-air pro Doug Durocher as morning drive co-host. Durocher pairs up with Meredith Dunkel for the “Meredith & Doug” show. Cumulus Media Albuquerque FM operations manager Brad Hansen states, “Bryan and Doug both bring an amazing track record of success and are already having a very positive impact on ‘Magic’ and the Albuquerque community.”
iHeartRadio Music Festival Returns to Las Vegas September 22-23. The main stage acts won’t be announced until a later date but iHeartMedia says its annual iHeartRadio Music Festival is back in Sin City September 22 and 23. The evening performances will happen at T-Mobile Arena. The Daytime Village, presented by Capital One, takes place on Saturday (9/23) in the Las Vegas Village across from the Luxor Hotel and Casino. Featured acts for the Daytime Village include: Flume, French Montana, Noah Cyrus, Judah & The Lion, Kelsea Ballerini, Hey Violet, and All Time Low, with more to be announced.
“Heard” at the NAB/RAB Radio Show – Day Two
By Jeff McKay
TALKERS
Special Features Correspondent
NASHVILLE – Day two of the Radio Show in Nashville included sessions about the connected car featuring Fred Jacobs; a conversation with FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn; and it culminated with the Marconi Awards reception. Here are some conversations that took place in the halls of the Omni Hotel, and four blocks away at the home of Cumulus Media, where I was treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the NASH America Morning Show.
New Jersey Broadcasters Association Convention a Success in Atlantic City
By Jeff McKay
TALKERS
Special Features Correspondent
ATLANTIC CITY — New Jersey broadcasters face the daunting issue of having to compete with New York City, the largest market in the nation to the north, and Philadelphia, the 9th Nielsen-rated market to the south, all while fighting formidable radio stations in their own backyard markets like PPM-rated Middlesex-Somerset-Union, along with #53-rated Monmouth-Ocean on the Jersey Shore, and rated markets in Atlantic City, Morristown, and Trenton. With a population of over eight million, many of whom commute daily to the neighboring big cities, the task of gaining listener loyalty might be more challenging in the Garden State than anywhere else.
Each year, the New Jersey Broadcasters Association holds its annual convention in Atlantic City, and as is the tradition, it’s not just a chance for broadcasters to mingle. The 69th annual two-day event that took place yesterday and Wednesday (6/22-23) at Caesars Atlantic City featured a number of productive work sessions dedicated to new technologies, mentoring talent, improving stations’ ad revenue, and honoring the best performers on New Jersey radio.
Monday, June 20, 2016
iHeartMedia Partners with AdsWizz for Programmatic Marketplace for Premium iHeartRadio Inventory. This programmatic private marketplace provides programmatic buyers access to iHeartMedia’s premium radio inventory across its digital properties on iHeartRadio. iHM says that “agencies and brands will be 
able to programmatically target iHeartRadio’s extensive audience using a combination of first- and third-party data segments.” Last spring, iHeartMedia unveiled a programmatic and automated ad buying private network for its
broadcast radio stations, powered by Jelli. This programmatic marketplace for its digital properties uses the AdsWizz platform. iHM president of programmatic and data operations Brian Kaminsky says, “Audio has a significant and growing role in the lives of today’s consumers and iHeartMedia is committed to evolving the ways marketers can reach and influence their target audience through our audio channels. Offering a programmatic approach to buying iHeartRadio’s digital listening audiences is a natural extension of our direct sales and broadcast programmatic initiatives and further enables us to capture even more of the $20 billion in ad spending that is projected for 2016.”
The Orlando Massacre Aftermath, The Presidential Race, Battle Against Islamic State, U.S.-Russia Military Tensions, Looming ‘Brexit’ Vote, Southwest Heatwave, and Cavs-Warriors Finals Among Top News/ Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The aftermath of the Orlando massacre including the pending release of Omar Mateen’s cell calls and the push for gun control legislation; the activities of the candidates for president; U.S. policy and strategy in the fight against Islamic State violence; military tensions between the U.S. and Russia in the Syrian civil conflict; This week’s vote by Britons on whether to leave the European Union; the intense heatwave in Arizona, Nevada and parts of California; and the NBA Championship won by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday night were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Former Connecticut Governor and WTIC, Hartford Host John Rowland Loses Appeal of Corruption Conviction. Former Connecticut Governor John Rowland was working as afternoon drive personality on CBS RADIO’s WTIC, Hartford when he began to work for congressional candidate Lisa Wilson-Foley via his political consulting firm. However, prosecutors successfully argued that he attempted to hide his role as a paid consultant and obstructed authorities in their efforts to investigate the matter. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison in March of 2015 but has been free on bond pending appeal. Last week a three-judge panel in the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals in New York upheld his conviction. Now, his options are to ask for the entire judicial panel of the Appeals Court to hear his arguments or ask the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the case. Rowland was previously convicted of bribery in 2004 for actions committed while serving as governor and served 10 months in federal prison. Rowland hosted a show on WTIC from 2010 through 2014.
Public Voting for NRHoF Begins Today. Today through June 30 is the public voting for radio personalities to be inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in November. Listeners nationwide can vote in two categories. The nominees for Music Format On-Air Personality are: Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton, Tom Kent, The Kevin & Bean Show (Kevin Ryder and Gene Baxter), and Bob Kingsley. For Spoken Word On-Air Personality, the nominees are Sean Hannity, Mike and the Mad Dog (Mike Francesa and Chris Russo), Diane Rehm and Michael Savage. Chairman of the National Radio Hall of Fame Kraig T. Kitchin comments, “The listener response we received last year since reinstituting the public voting process after a five-year hiatus was overwhelmingly positive. Fans want to engage and be a part of the process, which is a tribute to the dynamic personalities of each show.” Winners of the two categories will be announced July 11. Fans needing more information can visit each host’s Twitter feed, Facebook page, website, or the National Radio Hall of Fame website: www.radiohof.org.
New Jersey Broadcasters Association Conference (NJBA) Set to Open this Week. The 69th Annual NJBA Conference and Gala is set for Wednesday (6/23) and Thursday (6/24) at Caesars Atlantic City. The theme of the event is “The Power of Broadcast” and it will feature a wide array of speakers from Garden State radio as well as industry leaders from across the nation. Once again, NJBA’s dynamic president Paul Rotella and his team have organized an exciting agenda with solid speakers. Topics covered will include programming and marketing in the digital era, the changing nature of automobile listenership, the role of women in broadcasting, the importance of mentoring new talent, the sensitive relationship between music radio and pure plays, and the state of the FM chip, plus more. There will be the traditional awards ceremony, live broadcasts and displays of the latest technology. The agenda includes a “Radio Reporters Roundtable,” discussing the state of Atlantic City’s economy and future. Five-time heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield will deliver the conference keynote address. For complete agenda and registration information please click here.
WPGG, Atlantic City’s Harry Hurley Raises More Than $55,000 for Charity. Atlantic City morning personality Harry Hurley’s 9th Annual Hurley in the Morning Charity Golf Open raised more than $55,000 for his Hurley Morning Show Foundation. The annual golf event has raised more than $600,000 over the past nine years. DIY television network star Jason Cameron was on hand to help announce and present a new annual grant – The Thomas J. Hurley vocational trades school grant. Cameron also played in the event and his foursome won the 2016 Hurley Open Championship with a score of 56. Pictured here are (from l-r): Margie Hurley, Jason Cameron, and Harry Hurley.
Cool Job Opportunity. Greater Media Charlotte, a family-owned company, has a rare opening for a director of sales for WBT-AM/FM and WLNK-FM. The right candidate must possess a strong desire to win, lead by example, and have a track record of revenue success. The director of sales must have a strong background in running successful stations. Candidate must be an exceptional sales trainer, be a creative thinker, and be able to recruit and hire the best in the business. Primary responsibilities: Oversee all aspects of the sales operation; implementation and compliance with CRM tools; set rates through yield management tools; meet or exceed all revenue goals; work as a coach, leader and problem solver; understand the digital space and present a specific plan for its growth. Minimum requirements: candidate must be creative and possess an ability for generating local direct business; four-year college degree preferred; three to five years’ experience in radio sales management, preferably in a cluster or multi-station group; can demonstrate a proven track record out-performing the market as reflected in the Miller Kaplan Report on a consistent basis. Please submit your cover letter and resume to hired@gmclt.com, or mail/fax to: Human Resources WBT/WLNK, Greater Media Charlotte, One Julian Price Place, Charlotte, NC 28208. 704-338-3079 (fax). EOE.
NJ Broadcasters Work for a New Attitude
By Jeff McKay
TALKERS
Special Features Correspondent
ATLANTIC CITY — The 68th annual New Jersey Broadcaster’s Association Conference & Gala in Atlantic City brought together state broadcasters, management, sales and industry leaders for a two-day event that included honoring those who’ve helped to make New Jersey broadcasting great, and new this year, to recognize broadcasters mentoring those considering a career in radio.
The conference opened this week with the theme: “Broadcast Has a New Attitude.” NJBA president & CEO Paul Rotella told Talkers, “We heard from a variety of voices during this conference which provided attendees with the latest and most substantial evolution in research, technology and advancement in audience measurement.” During the conference, the NJBA honored FOX News’ Judge Andrew Napolitano as its recipient of the Howard L. Green Humanitarian of the Year. Also, Greater Media’s Peter Smyth inducted Dan Finn, Harry Hurley, Richard Swetits, and Kevin Williams into the NJBA Hall of Fame.
Friday, May 29, 2015
Profile: John Ziegler of the ‘John & Leah Talk Show.’ TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a profile of talk radio pro John Ziegler, whose weekend program with co-host Leah Brandon is busting out on stations across the country (recent adds include WNYM, New York; WNTP, Philadelphia; and WHAS, Louisville). In this piece, the Envision Networks-syndicated personality talks about his frustrations with the corporate radio business, his work producing documentary films as well as his philosophy of radio
entertainment. Ziegler says about this new program, “Our show is about what Leah and I can add to the public conversation that particular week and we are completely unafraid. All we care about is providing three hours of informative entertainment. Our business model allows us the freedom to do things other shows would never do. I am the CEO of the corporation, so this time I cannot get fired and that gives us a huge advantage. No one is over my shoulder telling me not to do something, or that I have to do something a certain way.” Read the entire piece here.
Alpha Media Names Stefan Brock Corporate VP, Interactive. There’s a corporate vice president now in charge of the digital space for Alpha Media as the company announces Stefan Brock is named corporate VP of interactive. Alpha says Brock will “oversee digital strategy, initiatives and the current corporate digital team. Brock’s experience includes time working for Disney Interactive Media Group, Disney ABC Television Group and most recently, Super Mackerel where he served as executive
director of product and operations. Alpha says the award-winning exec “has a passion for development of original cross platform digital media products and experiences that unite classic storytelling, original video and the latest in interactive social media technologies.” Alpha Media CEO/president Bob Proffitt adds, “After a long search, we are very lucky and excited to have Stefan relocate to Portland and join our team. Stefan’s experience, intelligence and customer focus was a perfect fit for our live and local strategy, and also the continued evolution of our interactive choices for listeners and customers.”
Monday Marks 10-Year Anniversary of FOX News Radio. On June 1, the FOX News Radio service will be 10 years old. The company says, “When FOX News Radio launched our full-service network on June 1, 2005, we had 24 stations, half a dozen reporters and a plan to bring ‘Fair and Balanced’ news coverage to radio. Now, a decade later, that same full-service network has almost 600 affiliated stations. We have 11 full-time radio reporters spread across the country and around the world, and our podcasts and our presence on the social networks are unmatched by any commercial radio network. And we are still growing.”
Odds & Sods. Beginning Monday, June 1, Radio Spokane-owned KJRB-AM, re-launches as “FOX Sports 790AM.” The station will carry the network’s 24/7 lineup including: “Jay Mohr Sports,” Dan Patrick, Rich Eisen, “Steve Gorman SPORTS!,” “FOX Sports Daybreak with Andy Furman & Mike North,” and JT “The Brick,” as well as the network’s weekend programming…..Beasley Broadcast Group is declaring a $0.045/share quarterly dividend payable July 10 for shareholders of record as of June 30.
Judge Andrew Napolitano to Be Honored at NJBA Conference. At the New Jersey Broadcasters Association conference June 17-18 at Caesars in Atlantic City, FOX News senior judicial analyst Judge Andrew Napolitano will receive the Howard L. Green Humanitarian of the Year Award. Napolitano has been the senior judicial analyst for FOX News since 1998. He appears regularly on both FOX News Channel and on FOX News Radio. The NJBA says Napolitano is “a fierce champion of the First Amendment, particularly freedom of speech, and is nationally known for watching and reporting on the government as it takes liberty and property.” NJBA president Paul Rotella adds, “To be sure, Judge Napolitano’s impressive career and public service include several major accomplishments, but I am most proud of his fearless defense of our industry, the First Amendment, and his ability to bring the law to life for his audience. The Judge will receive this honor at our Awards Luncheon during our Annual Conference in Atlantic City on June 18.”
ISIS Progress in Iraq Top News/Talk Story for Week of May 25-29. The success of ISIS in taking the Iraqi city of Ramadi and the Syrian city of Palmyra and questions about the U.S.’s military policy in Iraq was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. Coming in at #2 was the 2016 presidential prospects and former New York Governor George Pataki’s entering the race. At #3 was the Clinton Family Foundation’s finances tied with the FIFA corruption scandal followed by the Hillary Clinton emails probe and the Benghazi case at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on talk radio during the week. It is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine and is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
Monday, January 12, 2015
Cumulus Names Big John Howell Morning Host at WLS-AM, Chicago. The arrival of longtime Chicago market personality Big John Howell at Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM, Chicago had been rumored for some time and now it becomes official as Howell will assume the morning show duties effective next Monday (1/19). Most recently, Howell was morning host at Salem Communications’ news/talk WIND “AM 560 The Answer.” He also was a jock at CBS RADIO’s country WUSN for many years as well as morning personality on CBS’ WCKG. For seven years he hosted the Westwood One-syndicated “Country Gold” request show. Howell comments, “I’m looking forward to joining WLS-AM. It has been a longtime professional, as well as personal, goal. Growing up in West Michigan and listening to WLS influenced my initial decision to give the radio business a try. Now, all these years later, and on the heels of many WLS broadcast legends, including Larry Lujack and Don Wade, it is truly an honor and a privilege. I’m also looking forward to sharing the WLS airwaves with Steve Dahl, who taught all of us to ignore management and hate disco.” Howell takes over for the team of Dan Proft and Bruce Wolf.
Roe Conn to PM Drive at WGN, Chicago. There’s no official word from Tribune Media on this…yet, but Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that former longtime WLS-AM afternoon host Roe Conn will take over the afternoon drive show on WGN, Chicago from Bill Leff and Wendy Snyder – both of whom have been in the post since last May. Conn even appeared on WGN’s Steve Cochran show this morning (1/12), but chatted about issues and there was no mention of his joining the station. The hiring of Leff and Snyder was part of the makeover of the station orchestrated by president Jimmy de Castro. Feder reports that it’s expected that Leff and Snyder will stay on in some capacity.
Dr. Laurie Roth Show Joins USA Radio Networks. As part of a series of program rollouts, the USA Radio Networks announces Dr. Laurie Roth becomes part of the syndicated lineup, airing from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm ET effective February 2. USA Radio Networks describes the show as an “issues-driven program known to tackle politics, crime and corruption. Dr. Roth often visits with survivors and family members
affected by crimes and conspiracies. How do they survive and come back after losing a family member, being smeared or a being a victim of crime in some way? Listeners learn the answers to such questions. Roth says, “I expose the bad guys, stand for the good guys and don’t get caught in-between.” Tim Maranville is chief content officer at USA’a parent company – Cross Platform Media Group – and he comments, “Dr. Roth covers the issues driving the conversation in America like no other radio host. Her life experience brings a realness to the radio that, sadly, is uncommon in the network industry. She is a welcome breath of fresh air.” Recently, USA Radio Networks announced the launch of new shows including “AMERICA CONTINUES with Jim Sharpe,” and the syndication of the Steve Deace show, “DAYBREAK USA with Angie Austin,” and the hourly USA Radio News.
Brooks Promoted at WTMJ, Milwaukee. At the Journal Broadcast Group-owned news/talker WTMJ, Milwaukee, Eric Brooks is upped to assistant program director. WTMJ VP/GM Tom Langmyer says, “Eric has grown tremendously as a leader at WTMJ. As producer of ‘Wisconsin’s Afternoon News with John Mercure,’ Eric has helped the program leapfrog into the top news/talk position with both listeners 6+ and 25-54. Eric has also deftly handled many day-to-day responsibilities in the programming department in his role as executive producer of WTMJ programming.” Brooks joined WTMJ in 2011 as a news anchor and producer before being elevated to executive producer, WTMJ programming in 2013.
Odds & Sods. This Friday (1/16), New Jersey Broadcasters Association president and CEO Paul Rotella will sit in for morning drive personality Harry Hurley on Townsquare Media’s Atlantic City, New Jersey news/talker WPGG…..Here’s an interesting show, now available to radio stations across the country that draws on Americans’ interest
in the Old West: Dakota Livesay’s “Chronicle of the Old West.” It’s both a three-and-a-half minute show delivered five days per week and a weekly, one-hour show that features friends, authors and experts who chat with host Livesay about this romanticized period of American history. Check out OldWestRadio.com…..The WYD Media-syndicated “Huckabee Report” with Mike Huckabee and the Stephanie Miller program are both joining the lineup at CRN Digital Talk Radio. CRN states that “The Huckabee Report” will air throughout the day on CRN effective today (1/12) and CRN 4 channel will broadcast encore presentations of the Stephanie Miller show Tuesday through Saturday, beginning January 13.
Talk Pro Tom Becka Does ‘Friday Night Live.’ Longtime Omaha (not to mention Kansas City and Fargo) talk radio personality Tom Becka rhetorically asks TALKERS magazine, “What does a talk show host do when he’s on the beach? He keeps talking…” And that’s what you see in this photo. Recently let go from KOIL, Omaha in a cost-cutting move, Becka reports on his latest venture – a live version of the Tom Becka Radio Show. He says, “We set up a stage at a local watering hole, charged admission, and did an interactive audience participation show just like it was on the radio. A sold-out crowd came to talk about the hot issues of the day with ‘Honesty, Integrity, and a Sense of Humor.’ It was spirited, entertaining, and profitable. I used social media and my daily podcasts to promote the event and it turned out great. I’ll be doing these on a regular basis.” Becka can be reached at: 402-321-9590 or via Tom@TomBecka.com.
Remembering Nick (Bazoo) Ferrara. Word and condolences spread throughout social media on Saturday, January 10 about the passing of noted CHR programmer Nick Ferrara. Conspicuously absent though were specific details of when, where, or even if Ferrara had indeed passed. The Harrison County (Mississippi) coroner though has unfortunately confirmed that 59-year-old Gulfport resident Ferrara was killed Friday (1/9) in a two-vehicle accident on Interstate 10. According to officials, Ferrara was not wearing a seatbelt while driving his 2013 Honda Accord sedan; he died at the scene from blunt-force trauma. According to a report in the Biloxi-Gulfport Sun Herald, police responded at 6:05 pm to a report of a crash with injuries. Ferrara’s car apparently rear-ended another vehicle. The Gulfport Fire Department and American Medical Response were at the crash scene. Eerily, a Friday Facebook posting ostensibly made by Ferrara – known to many from his earlier top 40 programming days as Nick Bazoo indicated simply that at approximately 5:30 pm, he was at Biloxi’s Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. The previous day (Thursday, 1/8), Ferrara made 17 original Facebook posts. Tony Gray had the most succinct – yet possibly the most powerful comment on Ferrara’s home page, with the noted consultant simply writing, “B-97 New Orleans.” Specifically, WEZB “B-97” is the New Orleans station (then owned by EZ Communications) at which operations manager Ferrara (Bazoo) rose to prominence in the early-1980s. He was famously linked to that Louisiana metro. NBC Sports Radio programmer Jack Silver though first met Ferrara in Mill Valley, California in 1984. “He was coming in to flip KMEL from rock to top 40,” Silver recalls. “He and Keith Naftalyhad the vision – I was in the right place to help them as well. Heaven is full of great program directors who touched us all – God rest your soul.” Media Monitors music manager Anita Bonita writes, “Godspeed Mr. Bazoo – you will be missed.” Renowned talk radio consultant Valerie Geller is “so sorry to hear this news – RIP.” According to Giant Records vice president Jean Johnson, Ferrara was, “The consummate Facebook poster. I shared many of your hilarious posts. Rest in peace Mr. Bazoo – taken way too soon.” Legendary voiceover/imaging talent Howard Hoffman sums it up perfectly by stating, “This hurts. Selfless, strong, and just a real honor to work with you, Nick. One of the best field marshals ever and you deserved so much better. I am glad you knew that before leaving us way too soon. Godspeed, friend – thanks for everything.” Longtime industry executive Rob Sisco laments, “Oh my dear sweet Bazoo. I am so profoundly sad to hear this news. You were one of the true good guys. I am proud and honored to have called you friend. You will be missed forever. Rest in peace, Nick.” Former New Orleans programmer Pat Matthews recalls, “Met you when you were just 18 and starting out at WIXO. A funny, talented, caring guy – wow, this is so unbelievable.” Veteran programmer Joel Burke remarks, “You were one of the smartest radio people I knew and had such a contagious laugh – RIP.” Consultant Dan Vallie comments, “Good man – good heart. Rest in peace my friend. Heaven is going to enjoy your sense of humor and big smile.” Yet another twist: A “Life Event” posted on Ferrara’s Facebook page less than two weeks ago – New Year’s Eve (12/31) – states he “started working at retired.” Commencing in 2001 and lasting approximately through 2013, Ferrara was an operations manager in State College, Pennsylvania at Forever Broadcasting and then doing similar duties at cross-town Results Radio (2006 – 2013). In addition to WEZB “B-97,” Ferrara (Bazoo) held the operations manager title at several other New Orleans outlets, including WLMG, WLTS, and WWL. In the mid- and late-1980s, he spent time in California as an OM for KMEL, San Francisco and then Gannett Broadcasting‘s properties in San Diego. Sandwiched between those stops was a two-year stint as operations manager in Pittsburgh for EZ’s WBZZ “B-94.” Information is not yet available regarding Ferrara’s funeral arrangements.
Pandora Chickened Out!
New Jersey Broadcasters Association convention coverage by consultant Holland Cooke
ATLANTIC CITY — Stroll the iconic Boardwalk here, and you feel like you’ve stepped-back in time, the good ol’ summertime.
Also timeless: the radio mojo upstairs at Caesars, where the New Jersey Broadcasters Association convention wrapped Wednesday. Because this state has only one commercial TV station – New York City’s channel 9, re-licensed to Secaucus to save its license years ago – this was, de facto, a radio show. I attend lots of these state conventions, and each year this is a real good one.
Applause to affable NJ Broadcasters’ president/CEO Paul Rotella, who rounded-up some 300, an impressive headcount for a state meeting, in a state this size, with station travel budgets still tight. And these attendees WERE…local…very “of” this unique state. Proof: side-by-side on Radio Row: TWO stations on 1450AM, licensed-to, and sounding-very-much-like, their communities, in different parts of The Garden State.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Mark Masters Responds to Previously Posted Story About Potential Problems at TRN. CEO Mark Masters of Talk Radio Network has informed TALKERS that there are significant aspects of the story posted directly below pertaining to concerns over his company’s finances and operational well-being moving forward that are missing from it as covered. He promises a full statement will be forthcoming on Monday morning clarifying missing details of the story as it stands that will alleviate many of the concerns raised by the fact that it is incomplete. TALKERS has no reason to doubt Masters’ word on this and stands ready to publish his statement when received.
Troubling Times At TRN? While there are more questions than answers at the moment, TALKERS has learned through several reliable sources that a major restructuring is possibly taking place in high level “meetings” at the Mark Masters-led Talk Radio Network (TRN). Those close to the situation at the Oregon-based syndication firm have told TALKERS that some TRN staff members including talent and middle-management are owed back compensation, and that an uneasy feeling is pervading the company. Lack of capitalization is being cited as a major cause of TRN’s immediate woes. Ramifications of changes in TRN’s status could, of course, impact jobs throughout the company, most notably its high-profile host lineup that includes Andrea Tantaros, Jerry Doyle, Rusty Humphries, and Monica Crowley. If the speculated demise of TRN that we have been hearing about today is true, it could also have an immediate impact on its hundreds of affiliates in both the news/talk and all-news arenas. Again, none of this has been confirmed by Masters specifically, although our sources include mid-to-high-level executives in the company and reliable agencies with whom they do business. We have no further details, however, regarding a timetable on this nor if TRN has alternative remedies. TALKERS has attempted to reach Masters but he has not responded to our calls and emails.
ONE MONTH UPDATE: Boston Herald Radio to Be Subject of TalkersTV Documentary. The innovative online news/talk/sports initiative dubbed “Boston Herald Radio” launched this summer by the Boston Herald daily newspaper has reached its first-month anniversary milestone – an event that prompted a visit to the facility yesterday by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison. Harrison personally recorded a point-of-view series of video recordings of interviews with the project’s principals as well as a tour of its studios and facilities. These recordings will provide the basis for an in-depth documentary on the project that will run next week on TalkersTV here on Talkers.com. Meantime, the Boston Herald has run a story today about Harrison’s visit and comments including a comprehensive video of his opinion about the meaningfulness of Boston Herald Radio within the unfolding scheme of things in this new digital era. To see it, please click here.
Glenn Beck Featured in The New York Times Magazine This Weekend. In Amy Chozick’s column in this weekend’s The New York Times Magazine, Premiere Networks syndicated talk star and chief of his own multi-media venture TheBlaze, Glenn Beck, answers questions about media, politics and more. An interesting outtake from the piece is Beck’s response to her questioning his assertion that TheBlaze could put traditional TV news out of business. Beck’s response: “I learned that when Barbara Walters came and did an interview with me. They had about 50 people in our studio for two days – more people in my offices than we had employees. All for an eight-minute segment…The nightly news is doing a fine job of putting itself out of business. Who watches it? I mean really, besides my grandparents, who are both dead, who is watching the nightly news? I think we’ll be ready to put them out of business in the next three to five years.”
Martha Zoller Gets Tulsa Audience on Sunday Nights. WGAU, Athens-based talk show host Martha Zoller – who’s heard in AM Drive with Tim Bryant as hosts of “Athens’ Morning News” – is going to be heard on Cox Media Group’s Tulsa news/talk outlet KRMG when her Sunday evening program begins airing at 6:00 pm on September 8. Politics is Zoller’s bread and butter and the show will focus on political issues. KRMG PD Levi May states, “It’s a great opportunity to add such talent as Martha Zoller, the new voice in conservative talk, to do a live talk show on Sunday evenings and focus on the topics that matter to KRMG’s listeners. Zoller recently debuted her own Georgia political news blog at www.zpolitics.com. Addressing her new Tulsa show, Zoller says, “I’m very excited to be joining KRMG on Sunday nights. We’ll look at the week’s news and ahead to the big three things every week.” CMG notes that the Zoller and Bryant morning show is being distributed statewide in Georgia via the Georgia News Network beginning this month.
Radio Show Advertiser Luncheon Q&A to Feature State Farm and OMD Execs. The Radio Advertising Bureau and the National Association of Broadcasters 
announce Tim Van Hoof, assistant vice president of marketing for State Farm and Sumeet Kanwar, managing director, Midwest & strategy for OMD (State Farm’s media planning and buying agency partner) will participate in a Q&A at the 2013 Radio Show Advertiser Luncheon in Orlando. State Farm is one of the country’s leading broadcast 
advertisers. The event is sponsored by Katz Media Group and will take place on Wednesday, September 18 at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber will moderate a discussion with the two. State Farm was one of the top 10 radio advertisers of 2012 and increased its radio advertising spend by 20% in the first half of 2013 and by 32% in the second quarter of this year. Farber states, “The Advertiser Luncheon is always a Radio Show highlight and an opportunity for attendees to learn to leverage radio’s unique ability to attract and retain top advertisers. Mr. Van Hoof, as a key decision maker, and Mr. Kanwar, as a key influencer, offer valuable perspectives for one of radio’s largest advertising clients.”
Jorge Sedano Partners with Mark Schlereth for ESPN Radio Evening Show. Miami sports talk personality Jorge Sedano most recently was serving as program director and afternoon drive host at Beasley Broadcasting’s WQAM, Miami when he announced his departure from the station for new opportunities. Now we know that new opportunity is co-host of the “Sedano & Stink” show debuting on ESPN Radio Monday, September 9 at 7:00 pm ET. ESPN states that “in
addition to his new role on ESPN Radio, Sedano will contribute to “SportsCenter” and other ESPN studio programming. Schlereth, a three-time Super Bowl champion and former All-Pro offensive guard, joined ESPN in 2001 as an NFL analyst and has co-hosted the time slot on ESPN Radio since January 2012.” Sedano has worked at numerous sports broadcasting outlets in South Florida including serving as studio host for Fox’s Sun Sports telecasts of the Miami Heat in 2012-13. He says, “There are three elements to a successful talk show: be informative, entertaining and thought provoking. Those are the elements I expect from our new show. Between my energy, passion and analytical approach, coupled with Mark’s knowledge, insight and perspective, I feel like we have every aspect covered for the listener. It’s important to be interactive via social media during the show and truly connect with the listeners. Lastly, we’ll have fun, too.”
Another South Florida Sports Talker for ESPN Radio as Dan LeBatard Goes National September 30. In addition to Jorge Sedano’s new show on ESPN Radio, WAXY, Miami “The Ticket” PM drive host and Miami Herald columnist Dan LeBatard will be heard on the network at the end of the month. LeBatard will still emanate from WAXY and his 3:00 pm hour will be local but the 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm hours will be distributed via ESPN Radio. LeBatard will also continue to host “Highly Questionable” program on ESPN2 weekdays at 4:00 pm and Bomani Jones, who is a regular on the TV show, will also have a role on the new national radio program. ESPN Radio is debuting another show new to the network on Monday, September 9 as the Freddie Coleman show takes over the 10:00 pm to 1:00 am slot. Coleman had previously aired on Saturday and Sunday nights.
Jerry Del Colliano Sets Location/Date for Next “Media Solutions Conference.” The radio trade publication maverick who founded Inside Radio and built it during its days as an independent journal (it is currently owned by Clear Channel), Jerry Del Colliano, publisher of Inside Music Media, has announced the location and date of his next “Media Solutions Conference.” The 2014 installment of the one-day event will take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at the Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia. The theme of the forward-looking conference will be “How to disrupt your radio station before a traditional or digital competitor does.” It will address such topics as “mastering digital media,” “the most effective new social media strategies,” “dealing with shorter attention spans,” “reversing the decline of radio listening by making key strategic moves,” “how millennials hold the key to radio’s future,” “new digital content businesses to start,” and “succeeding at short video, digital audio, text and social media” among others. In addition to Del Colliano, the conference will feature speakers from the industry including WBEB (B101), Philadelphia owner Jerry Lee. For complete registration and hotel information call 480-998-9898 or click here.
Entercom Flips WWKB to Sports Talk as ‘ESPN 1520 AM.’ The progressive talk is gone from Entercom’s WWKB and the station becomes an ESPN Radio affiliate. The company says the outlet will deliver ESPN’s content, be the home of some local play-by-play and serve as a companion to its local sports talk station WGR. Entercom Buffalo operations manager Tim Wenger says, “Buffalo is a passionate sports town and the appetite for sports programming on the radio keeps growing. With WGR 550AM and now ESPN Buffalo 1520AM, Entercom Buffalo has expanded our ability to offer the best and most comprehensive local and national sports coverage to Buffalo sports fans, giving our clients and advertisers even better access to the total Buffalo sports audience.” The station is carrying live sports action this weekend as it airs coverage of the 2013 NHL Prospect Tournament live from Traverse City, Michigan. Every Sabres game will be carried live, with play-by-play provided by Paul Hamilton of WGR 550 radio.
NJBA: Radio Listening Up in NJ One Year After Sandy. The New Jersey Broadcasters Association reports that a little less than one year after the devastating storm Sandy hit the state of New Jersey and brought huge numbers of citizens with limited communications options to the radio for news and information, many of those people are relatively young and have stayed with radio, according to recent ratings trends. NJBA
president Paul Rotella explains, “The crucial role broadcasters played during Superstorm Sandy took center stage at our New Jersey Broadcasters Association conference this past summer, earning praise from local and national leaders like NAB president Gordon Smith and Representatives Frank Pallone, Rob Andrews, Frank LoBiondo and even Greg Walden from Oregon! Storm coverage also caused thousands of new listeners to discover the amazing entertainment and information resources of New Jersey’s best radio stations. Since then, our stations have successfully converted many of them into regular listeners, who turned to our reliable local broadcasters when the power went out and radio became an essential lifeline for everyone in the Garden State! What we have now noticed is that many of our stations now have an appreciably increased listener base across many demos than before the storm.”
Odds & Sods. As the football season moves into full swing with the first full weekend of NFL games, Fox Sports Radio Network announces its fall weekend schedule (all times Eastern): Saturday — 1:00 am to 6:00 am, Ben Maller; 6:00 am to 9:00 am, Seth Everett; 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, Anthony Gargano & Lincoln Kennedy; 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Bobby Bones; 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm “FOX College Football Now with Steve Hartman & Chris Rix”; 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Mike North; 10:00 pm to 1:00 am, College Football Recap with TJ Rives. Sunday – 1:00 am to 6:00 am, Ben Maller; 6:00 am to 8:00 am, “SPEED Sport on FOX with Rob D’Amico”; 8:00 am to 10:00 am, “FOX Fantasy with Mike North & Michael Harmon”; 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, “FOX Football Today with Bill Reiter & Artrell Hawkins”; 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm, “NFL on FOX TV” (simulcast); 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm, “The Blitz with Ben Maller & Tomm Looney”; 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, “FOX Overtime with Andy Furman & Kirk Morrison” and 10:00 pm to 1:00 am, “FOX 
Football Tonight with Mike North.”…..CBS Sports Radio Network also is announcing its weekend fall lineup (all times Eastern): Saturdays — 6:00 am to 9:00 am, Marc Malusis and Maggie Gray; 9:00 am to 10:00 am, Brandon Tierney; 10:00 am to 12:00 noon “Eye on Baseball with Brandon Tierney and CJ Nitkowski” (through the World Series); 12:00 noon to 8:00 pm, “Eye on College Football”; 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Jody McDonald; 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight “Eye on Fantasy Football.” Sundays – 12:00 midnight to 2:00 am, Adam the Bull; 2:00 am to 6:00 am, Amy Lawrence; 6:00 am to 9:00 am, John Kincade; 9:00 am to 10:00 am, “Mike Francesa’s Football Sunday”; 11:00 am to 12:00 noon “Fantasy Football Today with Jason Horowitz, Jamey Eisenberg and Dave Richard” ; 12:00 noon to 8:00 pm, “Eye on Football”; 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Jody McDonald; and 10:00 pm to 2:00 am, Amy Lawrence.
Basic Agenda Set for Talkers Los Angeles 2013 with More Speakers to be Announced — Sell-Out Expected by End of Business Monday! The third annual installment of TALKERS magazine’s West Coast convention set for Thursday, October 10 is shaping up to be a blockbuster. The gathering is closing in on being an advance sellout some five weeks before the event so it is advisable for media professionals interested in attending to register now! It is expected that reservations will be sold out by the end of business (5:00 pm ET) this coming Monday (9/9). The conference is again being presented in association with the Los Angeles Press Club at the historic Steve Allen Theater on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey states, “We are very enthusiastic about the growth and positive impact of this Southern California gathering. It started out three years ago as an experimental LA regional get-together and blossomed into an exciting companion to our big New York convention.” The event – open only to members of the working media – will feature a power-packed day of panel discussions, keynote addresses, special presentations, technology and services exhibits by leading companies such as Comrex Corp. and Broadcasters General Store, tremendous networking opportunities and abundant food and refreshments lavishly catered by the Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Company (lunch is sponsored by Premiere Networks and Fox News Channel star Sean Hannity who will address the attendees from New York). The following is the basic agenda of Talkers Los Angeles 2013 with more details and speakers to be added in the coming days and weeks leading up to the event:
Talkers Los Angeles 2013 – Thursday, October 10, 2013 – 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
9:00 am – 9:45 am
Bagel Breakfast Party
Sponsored by the Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Company
9:45 am – 9:55 am
Special Presentation: “Greetings from New York”
Introduction:
Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS/RadioInfo
Diana Ljungaeus, Executive Director, Los Angeles Press Club
Speaker: Sean Hannity (via video), Host, Premiere Networks; Fox News Channel
9:55 am – 10:30 am
Keynote Conversation: “Okay… Now, What?”
Introduction: Brent Seltzer and Meg McDonald, Co-Hosts, “Brent & Meg Show,” Talkers Radio/Official Greeters, Talkers Los Angeles 2013
Speakers:
Norm Pattiz, CEO, Courtside Entertainment/Launchpad Digital Media/Podcast One
Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS/RadioInfo
10:40 am – 11:20 am
Panel Discussion: “The State of Radio Advertising and Sales”
Introduction: TBA
Moderator: Erica Farber, president/CEO, Radio Advertising Bureau
Panelists (in alphabetical order):
Terry Fahy, VP/GM, Salem, Los Angeles
Ron Hartenbaum, CEO, WYD/WYM Media
Chris Pendl, Creative Director, Bonneville Seattle
Paul Vandenburgh, President/GM/host, WGDJ, Albany
More TBA
11:30 am – 12:10 pm
Panel Discussion: “Radio – The Big Picture, Part 1”
Moderator: Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS/RadioInfo
Panelists (in alphabetical order):
Phil Boyce, VP spoken word format, Salem Communications
“Shotgun” Tom Kelly, Disc Jockey, KRTH, Los Angeles
Kraig Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LLC
Don Martin, SVP sports programming, Fox Sports Radio/Clear Channel Media and Entertainment
Mike McVay, SVP programming, Cumulus Media
Harvey Nagler, VP, CBS Radio News
12:20 pm – 12:30 pm
Special Presentation: “The Importance of Personality, Creativity and Originality in Talk Radio”
Introduction: Robbie Student, Host, TalkersRadio
Speaker: Phil Hendrie, Host, WYD Media
12:35 pm – 12:50 pm
Special Presentation: “New Local Talk Radio On-Air Jobs in 2014”
Introduction: Jeff Wasserman, CEO, Life Coach Media
Speaker: Holland Cooke, Radio Consultant
12:50 pm – 1:30 pm
Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Luncheon!
Sponsored by Sean Hannity and Premiere Networks
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Special Ceremony: Woman of the Year Award
Introduction: TBA
Presenter: Robin Bertolucci, PD, KFI/KTLK, Los Angeles
Recipient: Heather Cohen, EVP, the Weiss Agency
2:00 pm – 2:40 pm
Panel Discussion: The State of Talk Radio Programming
Introduction: TBA
Moderator: Kevin Casey, VP/Executive Editor, TALKERS/RadioInfo
Panelists:
Skip Essick, PD, KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno
Neil Larrimore, PD KFYI/KOY-AM/KGME, Phoenix
Andy Ludlum, Director of News Programming, KNX/KFWB, Los Angeles
Dave Sniff, PD, KFMB, San Diego
Chuck Tyler, PD, KRLA/KKLA, Los Angeles
Bill White, PD, KQTH-FM/KFFN-AM/FM, Tucson
2:45 pm – 3:20 pm
Panel Discussion: “Hosting a Show and Managing a Career”
Introduction: Matthew B. Harrison, VP/Associate Publisher, TALKERS/RadioInfo; Senior Partner, Harrison Strategies
Moderator: Mike Kinosian, Managing Editor/West Coast Bureau Chief, TALKERS/RadioInfo
Panelists:
Rusty Humphries, Host, Talk Radio Network
Frank Kramer, Morning Co-Host (Heidi & Frank), KLOS, Los Angeles/founder of Toad Hop Network
Leslie Marshall, Host, WYM Management
Doug Stephan, Host, “Good Day”/CEO, Stephan Multimedia
Alan Stock, Host, KDWN, Las Vegas
3:25 pm – 3:40 pm
Special Presentation: “Interactivity and Video: The Key to Your Business Future”
Introduction: TBA
Speaker: Walter Sabo, CEO, Sabo Media
3:45 pm – 4:15 pm
Panel Discussion: Specialty Shows, Orphan Shows, Category Busters and Non-Traditional Revenue
Introduction: Bill Moran, CEO, Bill Moran & Associates
Moderator: David Bernstein, General Manager, TalkersRadio
Panelists:
Barry Armstrong, Co-host, “The Financial Exchange with Barry Armstrong & Kim Carrigan,” WRKO, Boston
Danielle Lin, Host, the Danielle Lin Show
Michael Zwerling, Owner, KSCO, Santa Cruz
More TBA
4:20 pm – 5:00 pm
Panel Discussion: “Radio – The Big Picture, Part 2”
Introduction: TBA
Moderator: TBA
Panelists:
Bill Carroll, Host, KFI, Los Angeles
Sam Hasson, CEO/Host, LA Talk Radio
Tom Leykis, President, the New Normal
Kevin McCullough, CEO/Host XtreMEDIA; Host, WMCA, New York
Eric Stanger, VP of Operations and Affiliate Marketing, The Sean Hannity Show/Premiere Networks
More TBA
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Open Forum followed by Closing Remarks and “Farewell Reception”
Speaker: TBA
Agenda subject to change without notice.
Youngest Reporter in Berlin. As “Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline” covers the IFA Consumer Electronics Unlimited show in Berlin this week, Dave Graveline’s 16-month-old grandson Kameron Graveline (l) helped out the crew reporting from the historic show (Dave’s the one on the right). Dave tells TALKERS that this trade show – news from which will be featured on his programs this weekend and next – is rich in history. He notes that Albert Einstein was the first keynote speaker at the inaugural show back in 1924. Graveline is celebrating his 10th anniversary covering this enormous consumer electronics and appliance show.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. The Thom Hartmann show adds some non-commercial affiliates to his program including: KPFK, Los Angeles; KNSJ, San Diego; KBBF, San Francisco; KBCS, Seattle; KXRY, Portland…..“The Freedom Feens” featuring Michael W. Dean and Neema Vedadi is added to the program schedule at WRIK, Paducah, Kentucky.
Debate of Syria Action Tops Talkers TenTM. The debate over U.S. action in Syria was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week. At #2 was the G-20 Summit followed by the implementation of the Affordable Care Act at #3. Following at #4 was the controversy over the federal “Common Core” education guidelines. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s chart here.
Friday, November 2, 2012
The Week of Sandy for Broadcasters in the Northeast; Broadcasters Associations Tout Virtues of Local Radio and TV. Natural disasters bring the importance of radio to the fore and Hurricane Sandy was no different. Even as we write this, broadcasters in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut are – days after the storm – struggling with ongoing issues of lack of electricity, fuel shortages, staff with homes damages and destroyed, and more. In fact, contacting broadcasters in the affected areas to report how they are getting by is a challenge since all of their resources – such as they are – are being used to perform the function of emergency broadcasting. However the degree to which the storm affected the hub of media in this country – New York City — threw another wrench into the works. Even though radio stations were able to get information out one way or another – for example, all-news WINS using sister station WXRK’s signal when its transmitter went down – broadcasting companies were hampered by the lack of electricity and the business end of operating a station or network remained, and in some cases remains, challenging. New Jersey Association of Broadcasters president and CEO Paul Rotella is using the disaster to raise the FM chips in cell phones issue. “This deadly disaster points out the absolute necessity of having FM chips in cell phones activated, which would turn every cell phone into an emergency ‘transistor’ radio. (Many cell phones already have FM chips either installed or easily implanted and activated.) I understand that cell phone carriers want to make money off of consumers with streaming rate plans, etc., but maybe they could light the FM chip up in times of emergency so that more people can receive emergency information that only our local broadcasters are capable of transmitting to everyone. It’s worth exploring.” New York State Broadcasters Association president David L. Donovan notes in a press release touting the value of over-the-air broadcasting that 25% of cell towers in 10 states were affected by the storm, relegating the public to using battery-powered radios and TVs to get news and information. (The flood image is courtesy of Cox Media Group Connecticut from a video of the group’s coverage of the storm and its aftermath. See the entire video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ix9PvdYKvkc)
CBS Radio Names Ryan Maguire KDKA-FM, Pittsburgh PD. Rising sports programming star Ryan Maguire has been tabbed by CBS Radio to handle the PD position at Pittsburgh sports talk outlet KDKA-FM “SportsRadio 93.7 The Fan.” Maguire fills the shoes left by Terry Foxx who moved to Atlanta to program CBS Radio’s new FM sports talk outlet WZGC “92.9 The Game.” Maguire currently serves as PD for Entercom’s KCSP, Kansas City “610 Sports Radio.” Prior to that he programmed Entercom’s WSSP, Milwaukee “Sports Radio 1250” and Cumulus Media’s WTKA, Ann Arbor “The Ticket 1050.” CBS Radio SVP and market manager Michael Young states, “Ryan has a very impressive track record in programming sports radio stations. He has produced strong ratings and successfully developed a number of dynamic on-air sports personalities. Furthermore, Ryan has an uncompromising passion for sports and his leadership will well serve Pittsburgh sports fans.” On his new gig, Maguire says, “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity and privilege to be a part of ‘Sportsradio 93.7 The Fan’ in Pittsburgh. Western Pennsylvania is home to some of the most loyal and passionate fans in the country and I’m looking forward to seeing KDKA-FM continue to be a big part of their sports experience.”
Media Broker Says Opportunity is Knocking Right Now for First-Time Station Buyers. Sandi Bergman, whom TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison describes as “a dynamic rising star among today’s crop of media brokers,” has positive news for the many recently laid-off radio management figures looking to apply their seasoned skills in a new and productive direction in the industry. They should consider radio station ownership! Although it is a tough sales-driven business and there are daunting obstacles to obtaining financing, ownership is not just for the mega-corporations who are burdened with seemingly insurmountable debt. It is indeed possible that many of them will be spinning off unwieldy properties in the months and years ahead creating new opportunities for fresh blood in the business. According to Bergman, who owns the innovative website www.RadioTVDeals.com and a New Mexico-based brokerage firm (MyMediaBroker.com) and is one of the relatively few major female brokers in the game, there are many incredible opportunities for first-time buyers. Read the entire TALKERS interview with Sandi Bergman here.
It’s Official: WFAN, New York Broadcasts on 101.9 FM. CBS Radio took over WRXP 101.9 FM under an LMA at midnight last night and the nation’s first full-time sports talk station WFAN, New York is now heard in the region on FM. CBS Radio is buying the class B FM signal from Merlin Media for $75 million.
Keven Cohen Out at WVOC, Columbia, South Carolina. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment ousts PM drive host Keven Cohen from news/talk WVOC, Columbia, South Carolina. Cohen announced his departure from the station via his Facebook page stating, “An hour ago, Clear Channel relieved me of my duties and fired me. Obviously, I am devastated. I am not getting the chance to do so on the radio, so I want to thank all of you for the love and support you have offered my way over almost 19 years at WVOC. Please keep the Cohen family in your prayers. This will be a significant challenge.” WVOC has not announced its plans for PM drive at the station.
Now That You’re in Sales… Because all radio staffers are in sales now – or should be, according to radio consultant Holland Cooke – if they want to keep their jobs. But as Cooke writes, just because you’re a talent doing personalized spots doesn’t mean you have job security these days. So, what’s a talent to do? Still more, says Cooke. “Offer to write copy. You got your on-air job because you’re good with words, right? That could make you handy to have around if yours is one of many stations where the creative department fell victim to a recent bloodbath. Too often, account reps are writing spot copy, and too much of it sounds like…well, spot copy.” Also, have you accompanied a sales rep on a call? No? Uh-oh…better read more of Holland Cooke’s wise advise for air talent here.
Steve Kelley to Prove Colorado is a Swing State. Steve Kelley, along with Bill Rogan and Murphy Wells, hosts the morning drive show on Salem Communications’ KNUS, Denver. Kelley is a well-known Denver radio personality who has performed various stunts for charity in the past. Now, Kelly has begun an effort to break the world record for time spent swinging – a tongue-in-cheek nod to Colorado’s political status as a “swing state” and with the desire to highlight the need for all registered voters to cast their ballots. Kelley will report on his progress live on the air and plans to finish his attempt sometime Saturday evening. In past stunts, Kelley has rode a pogo stick from Boulder to Denver and sat in every seat in both the old and new Mile High Stadiums.
Welcoming Herman to Tulsa. Cox Media Group’s news/talk KRMG-AM/FM, Tulsa held a live local event with some of its showcase talent to welcome talk show host and former presidential candidate Herman Cain to the market where he’ll take over as host of the Cox-syndicated Neal Boortz show in January. Pictured here are (from l-r): Cox Media star Clark Howard, Boortz, Cain, and Cox Media radio news director of the Washington Bureau Jamie Dupree.
Hurricane Sandy Destruction Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of October 29-November 2. The destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week landing at #1 on the Talkers TenTM. Following at #2 was the NY/NJ/CT Gas Shortages. At #3 was climate change controversy followed by the presidential race polls and predictions at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio across the country and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. View this week’s entire chart here.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. WYD Media-produced and Dial Global-distributed Michael Smerconish is added to the program schedule at WCMY, Ottawa, Illinois and WEZS, Laconia, New Hampshire…..Independently syndicated “Free Talk Live” with Ian Freeman and Mark Edge is added to the lineup at KBZZ-AM/FM, Reno.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Jeff Kuhner Officially Named New WRKO, Boston AM Drive Host. As TALKERS reported yesterday, Todd Feinburg and Michele McPhee are out as morning drive duo at the Entercom news/talk outletand now WRKO confirms the moves of late morning talk host and Washington Times columnist Jeff Kuhner to the AM drive slot. Kuhner has been a
weekly guest and fill-in host on the station since January of 2012. He began doing a daily 11:00 am to 12:00 noon program on WRKO in August. Entercom VP and market manager Jeff Brown states, “This caps off a season of positive change for WRKO. It’s the right move for our two most important customers – our listeners and our advertisers – and needless to say, I’m excited about our future.” In addition to his work at the Washington Times, Kuhner is the president of the Edmund Burke Institute, a Washington think tank. He did his doctoral work at Ohio University and taught U.S. history at McGill University in Montreal from 1998-2000 before deciding to make a career change to 
journalism. He has made numerous national radio appearances and served as a frequent guest host on “The Savage Nation.” Vice president of programming for Entercom Boston Jason Wolfe states, “Jeff has made an immediate impact in a very short period of time and has demonstrated that he’s ready for a bigger platform. The positive reaction to his 11:00 am hour has been simply overwhelming and his fearless, honest brand of talk makes him appointment listening.” Kuhner will continue to host the 11:00 am hour as well. As for Todd Feinburg, he had been with WRKO since 2003 hosting in different dayparts, the last several years in AM drive with Tom Finneran and most recently with McPhee. He is considered one of the most capable and versatile talk show hosts in the business. He can be emailed at todd@toddtalk.com.
America’s Radio News Network Adds Election Night Coverage. Special election night programming is being added to America’s Radio News Network on Tuesday, November 6 as the team of John McCaslin, Lori Lundin and Chris Salcedo will broadcast “Election Night 2012” to affiliates from 9:00 pm to 3:00 am ET. McCaslin states, 
“Before the winners are even announced, we will have for listeners the final state-by-state exit polling – including crucial battleground states like Ohio, Florida and Virginia – as quickly as the polls close in each state. Once the voting stops, we will be able to closely examine various exit-polling data and get a clear signal of the ultimate results. Take the all-important race for the White House: if President Obama or Mitt Romney were to win certain key battleground states – with the right combination, this could be as few as two of the states – we would be able to suggest which candidate will be taking the oath of office on January 21, 2013.”
New Jersey Radio Stations Move into Day Three of Hurricane Sandy Mode. Meteorologists are saying that Hurricane Sandy could have been much worse and indeed some of the early models called for prolonged rain and wind well north and west into the mainland U.S. The broadcasting community is well aware that New
Jersey and New York took the brunt of Sandy and today many Garden State radio stations are still working on generator power as the clean-up gets underway. New Jersey Broadcasters Association president and CEO Paul Rotella tells TALKERS that he’s proud of the people who are still working hard in the often-overlooked aftermath of a storm like this. “Our broadcasters responded magnificently almost without exception. What was so poignant about this tragic weather event is that although our beloved New Jersey Shore got ravaged it’s really interesting to see how many broadcasters were at their posts manning their stations while their own homes were being destroyed. It’s nothing less than awe-inspiring, the dedication of the broadcasters here in New Jersey.”
Nebraska Secretary of State Denounces KFAB, Omaha Satire. Responding to a satirical radio interview in which late morning host Scott Voorhees spoke with a phony U.N. elections observer named Steve Apple about the United Nations’ monitoring of voting in the Ohama area, Nebraska Secretary of State John Gale called the content of the bit “completely false” and stated, “I want to make it clear that the U.N. has no right to send election observers to the United States, much less any whom are ‘armed and in uniform.’ It is also untrue that Omaha was targeted due to serious concerns about civil rights violations.” During the bit, Voorhees’ conspirator states the U.N. observers may asked for I.D. and pat down voters if they feel they may have illegal campaign literature. During one point, a caller asks why Omaha is being observed and the fake U.N. observer states that the fact that the Midwest has no blue states indicates the likelihood of voter fraud. While Gale called the stunt reckless, saying, “This is a serious time in America, right before a presidential election. Spoofing the process demeans our democracy. People don’t need further distractions as they prepare to cast their votes. They need straightforward and honest information on which they can rely.” Voorhees tells the Omaha World-Herald that he did it to call attention to questions about international election observers.
Salem Communications Officially Takes Over Columbus FM; Flips to Conservative Talk. Last week TALKERS reported that Salem Communications was planning to flip soon-to-be-acquired WJKR, Columbus to a conservative news/talk format using Salem Radio Network programming and that’s what happened at midnight last night. Salem is buying the station from Radio One but took over today under an LMA and is positioning the station as “98.8 FM The Answer.” Salem’s vice president and director of spoken
word format Phil Boyce says, “This will be the fifth ‘Answer’ station we have launched at Salem, along with New York, Los Angeles, Riverside and Dallas. Salem continues to be a leader in the news/talk format, and this new station will be the first FM news/talk station in the company fold. ‘The Answer’ imaging voiced by legendary Lonnie Perkins will sound great coming out of an FM speaker.” The station will air the SRN programs — Bill Bennett‘s “Morning In America”; Mike Gallagher; Dennis Prager; Michael Medved; and Hugh Hewitt; plus Dial Global‘s Dennis Miller from 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight and Compass Media‘s Lars Larson from 12:000 midnight to 3:00 am.
WERQ, Baltimore’s LaDawn Black Returns as Relationship Expert on Bill Cunningham TV Show. “The Love Zone” host LaDawn Black is back for a second season as a relationship expert on WLW, Cincinnati talk host Bill
Cunningham’s eponymous nationally syndicated television talk show. Black hosts the 10:00 pm to 2:00 am show on Radio One’s hip hop WERQ, Baltimore “92QJams.” She is a best-selling author of such books as Stripped Bare: The 12 Truths That Will Help You Land the Very Best Black Man (One World/Ballantine) and Let’s Get It On: 15 Hot Tips and Tricks to Spice Up Your Sex Life (One World/Ballantine) and contributed to episodes last season and will contribute to more shows during Cunningham’s second season.
Main Street Radio Network Inks Distribution Deal with Salem. Independent syndicator Main Street Radio Network informs TALKERS that its programming operations will now be distributed by the Salem Radio Network (SRN). This includes its flagship daily show, “Battle Line with Alan Nathan,” and its popular weekend program, “The Dr. Evelyn Higgins Show.” Jane Silk, president of Main Street Radio Network says, “We’re 
exceptionally pleased to have our programming now distributed by the Salem Radio Network. SRN’s longevity and steady prominence in the radio industry are renowned and we look forward to all the mutually promising horizons attainable through this new relationship.” SRN VP of operations Charles Mefford adds, “SRN is thrilled to assist in the production and distribution of ‘Battle Line with Alan Nathan’ and ‘The Dr. Evelyn Higgins Show.’ It’s always exciting to add quality shows to the growing list of program producers who daily rely on the Salem Radio Network for outstanding production and distribution services.
Presidential Race Polls, Sandy Aftermath, Climate Change Controversy, and Benghazi Attack Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/31). The resumption of presidential race polling; the effects of Hurricane Sandy on its victims and on the political races; climate change as a cause of Hurricane Sandy; and the quest for answers in the Benghazi attack were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
New Jersey Broadcasters are Ready for Whatever Sandy Throws at Us!
By Paul S. Rotella, Esq.
New Jersey Broadcasters Association
President/CEO
MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ — Are we ready? Of course; that’s because we usually stand ready, often prepared for anything—that’s what local radio is all about: being prepared, being nimble, and being informative, with real information our listeners need. It’s amazing how dedicated local broadcasters are, especially in New Jersey where local radio means so much to our state!
We’ve been preparing since Friday. As you know, our great NJ broadcasters have responded to extreme and hazardous weather events magnificently in the past and we expect them to continue this fine tradition of selfless service in the face or Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath. Read More
Monday, October 29, 2012
Radio Stations Across the Northeast Totally Focused on Hurricane Sandy. Or at least radio stations with a shred of competitiveness, pride, community concern and a modicum of resources are focused on the storm and its impact on their listeners. Considering how much the consciousness of the radio broadcasting industry has been raised this past couple of years regarding the medium’s role in providing community support during natural disasters coupled with the amount of time the industry has had to prepare for this slow-developing storm, we can expect the next couple of days to be among modern radio’s finest hours. (Image courtesy NOAA)
New Jersey Broadcasters Association to Sandy: Bring it On! NJBA president Paul S. Rotella tells TALKERS that New Jersey broadcasters are prepared for the storm stating, “Are we ready? Of course; that’s because we usually stand ready, often prepared for anything—that’s what local radio is all about: being prepared, being nimble, and being informative, with real information our listeners need. It’s amazing how dedicated local broadcasters are, especially in New Jersey where local radio means so much to our state! We’ve been preparing since Friday. As you know, our great NJ broadcasters have responded to extreme and hazardous weather events magnificently in the past and we expect them to continue this fine tradition of selfless service in the face or Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath.” Read the entire text of Rotella’s statement here.
New Jersey Likely Ground Zero as Sandy Moves Inland; Broadcasters Foundation Steps Up to the Plate. Slow-moving Hurricane Sandy has already taken more than 60 lives in the Caribbean and it is moving north and is expected to turn west and move inland hitting the coast of New Jersey first as it sweeps up the Eastern Seaboard. The New Jersey Broadcasters Association has been in communication with stations in the state helping them prepare for coverage of the storm. NJBA president Paul Rotella relates that the FCC is available “24-7…during the storm to answer calls about service outages, to assist where possible in restoring any lost service, and to issue emergency authorizations for temporary facilities. As we have written before, the FCC has been helpful in past disasters — seemingly able to bridge bureaucratic barriers that might otherwise delay the restoration of communications services.” Rotella also alerts broadcasters in the region that the 
Broadcasters Foundation of America may be of assistance to broadcasters in need. “Broadcasters Foundation of America president Jim Thompson asked that I reach out to those state associations in the path of Sandy to remind them that the BFoA is there for broadcasters in times of unexpected need, especially broadcasters caught in the crosshairs of the approaching storm, or in its aftermath…As you may recall, the BFoA responded rapidly to the deadly tornadoes across the Midwest last year with $41,000 in emergency grants dispatched almost immediately after the tornadoes hit. Emergency grants can be used to buy food, clothing and even emergency shelter, especially for broadcasters suffering substantial and even catastrophic loss in the wake of the storm. Broadcasters (and even association execs) may apply for an emergency one-time $1,000 grant by contacting Jim or his staff. As you know, Jim’s dedicated team reviews and responds to emergency grant applications quickly and with unmatched compassion. You and your members can reach Jim at 212-373-8250 or via email: jim@thebfoa.org.”
Orlando Radio Institution Jim Turner to Retire from WDBO. Jim Turner has been with Cox Media’s WDBO, Orlando since it was a music outlet joining the station as afternoon jock in 1972. He made the transition to morning drive host 12 years later and was chosen by then program director David Bernstein to lead the station as it changed from a
music station to a news and information outlet. Now, 40 years later, Turner will retire from the radio business and KRMG-AM/FM, Tulsa morning host Joe Kelly will take over the morning role at WDBO. Kelly will join WDBO on November 19 and will transition into the morning role. A final broadcast for Turner has not been announced. WDBO program director Drew Anderssen states, “Jim is a broadcast icon. He has been revered as one of the premier morning hosts in America for many years, a true professional, and a great man. We stand by Jim in celebration of his 40 years of community service and dedication to Central Florida as he begins to write a new page in his life. He will truly be missed as the daily voice of morning news in Orlando radio.” In Tulsa, program director Levi May begins the search for the replacement of Joe Kelly. May states, “We are very excited about the opportunity to bring new, outstanding talent to KRMG and further grow our listening audience. KRMG is dedicated to being Tulsa’s number one station for news, weather, and traffic and we will always remain committed to that pledge.”
Martha Zoller to Return to Radio in 2013. Gainesville, Georgia-based talk show host Martha Zoller left her radio show on WXKT, Gainesville this year to run for Congress in the 9th Georgia District. She lost a close race in the Republican primary and now says she will return to the radio in January of 2013 though she’s not saying where just yet. In the meantime, Zoller will appear on Talk Radio Network-produced morning program “America’s Morning News” tomorrow morning to discuss the Campaign to Fix the Debt. Zoller sits on the steering committee for the campaign.
Premiere to Handle Ad Sales for 24/7 Comedy. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s 24/7 Comedy format will have ad sales and national syndicated handled by the company’s Premiere Networks. 24/7 Comedy debuted in 2010 and currently had about 30 affiliates and boasts a library of more than 15,000 comedy bits. Clear Channel president of content and affiliate services for national media groups Julie Talbott says, “24/7 Comedy provides stations with the unique opportunity to own comedy in their market with an audience engaging format. Comedy has universal consumer appeal across all forms of media, so we’re excited to deliver this ratings-winning format to more radio stations across the U.S.”
Salem Preparing for LMA of Columbus FM; Conservative Talk Lineup Appears Likely. The domain 989TheAnswer.com registered to Salem Communications seems to indicate that the company will flip Radio One’s WJKR, Columbus “JackFM” to its conservative news/talk format positioned with its “The Answer” slogan. Salem, which is purchasing the station from Radio One, will assume operation of the station on Thursday, November 1 under an LMA and it’s expected the slate of Salem Radio Network programs – Bill Bennett, Mike Gallagher, Michael Medved, Hugh Hewitt, and Dennis Prager – will occupy the program schedule.
Start Doing This Right Now on Facebook! It’s a common belief that Facebook has drastically cut back on how many people see radio’s branded posts, so that broadcasters using the platform have to buy more advertising. That may well be the case! However, the Facebook folks are not only concerned about money, they’re also concerned about their version of time spent listening. They want users to visit more often; and they want them to scroll further down their news feeds than they do now. They may be limiting how much stuff people see from commercial enterprises, so that it doesn’t crowd out what they see from their friends and family. In any event, according to radio digital consultant Chris Miller, radio can overcome these obstacles. So, Miller presents TALKERS readers with the state-of-the-art techniques that will help you get seen more, and engaged with more often. If you’re doing it right, that will then lead to more on-air and online usage of your radio station, which is the ultimate goal. To read Chris Miller’s exclusive article, click here.
Comedian Adam Carolla Joins Bill O’Reilly’s Fox News Channel Program. Comedian, radio host and producer of the one of the most popular podcasts Adam Carolla is becoming part of Fox News Channel’s “The O’Reilly Factor” as a contributor. Bill O’Reilly – who still maintains a talk radio presence with his Courtside Entertainment-distributed “Talking Points” daily features – already uses comedian and Dial Global nationally syndicated talk host Dennis Miller as a contributor. Miller usually appears on Wednesdays while the Hollywood Reporter states Carolla will likely be a regular part of Monday’s programs.
WQAM’s Dan Sileo Gets TV Shot. WQAM, Miami sports talk host Dan Sileo appears on the little screen this weekend when he joins the ACC Network when he appears on the pregame show from Charlotte with hosts Jeff Fischel and Dorsey Levens. The program hits the air at 11:00 am ET on Saturday.
Gone to the Dogs. KIDO, Boise morning drive host Kevin Miller is living in a cage at the Canyon County Animal Shelter to promote the shelter’s Mission Pawsible Challenge that involves getting the most pets adopted out to families. It’s part of the 3rd annual ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. By saving the most lives in the challenge, the shelter could win up to $100,000 that would go to helping feed, home, and keep all of the animals at the shelter healthy! Miller is spending the 25th through the 31st of October in the cage you see here while broadcasting his program each morning. Miller tells the Idaho Press he “would be lost” without his dogs Alabama and Carolina, so doing whatever he could for the shelter seemed right. “We’ll be here to the final hour, the final minute, the final second, to get as many of these four-legged family members a forever home.”
Friday, October 5, 2012
Entercom’s Sports WEEI Splits AM and FM Signals Today. The AM and FM signals of Entercom’s Boston-based sports talk radio giant WEEI split earlier this morning with the Boston FM signal at 93.7 continuing the local talk with the established lineup of Dennis & Callahan, Mut & Merloni, “The Big Show” with Glenn
Ordway and Michael Holley, and “Planet Mikey” with Mike Adams. The AM signal at 850 is now “ESPN on WEEI” and features the lineup of ESPN Radio sports talk shows beginning with “Mike & Mike in the Morning,” “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” SVP & Russillo, “ESPN Today,” Hill & Schlereth or play-by-play, “SportsCenter Tonight,” and “SportsCenter All Night.” Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic are broadcasting from Gillette Stadium this morning to celebrate their arrival in the Boston market. ESPN senior vice president, production business divisions Traug Keller states, “We’re pleased to team with Boston’s preeminent sports radio outlet and one of the nation’s best radio broadcasting companies in Entercom to bring the number one national network into New England. This move, coupled with the existing presence of ESPNBoston.com, provides Boston’s passionate fans the best of ESPN’s national and local coverage and analysis.”
Cox Media Group to Debut Georgia News Service in January. The multi-media service will be based out of Cox Media Group’s WSB, Atlanta studio and bring together the assets of WSB, the Atlanta-Journal Constitution and ABC TV affiliate WSB-TV to produce news content. Scott Smith – market manager for Cox Media in Athens, Georgia – is being charged with heading the operation. Cox Media Atlanta vice president
and general manager Ben Reed says, “The Cox name has long been synonymous with excellent news coverage throughout the state of Georgia. This gives us the opportunity to bring our experience and assets together in order to provide a high-quality news service to outlets across the state of Georgia. We believe the Georgia News Service will very quickly become an invaluable audio, visual, and digital resource for news outlets across the state. We look forward to providing them with the high-caliber news coverage that has become a Cox tradition.” Clear Channel has been operating the Georgia News Network out of former news/talk WGST’s studios but is closing down the bureau.
ESPN Radio Extends Contract of Ryen Russillo; Changes Name of Afternoon Show to ‘SVP & Russillo.’ Ryen Russillo has been the co-host of the 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm ET Scott Van Pelt show on ESPN Radio since May of 2009. Now, the sports entertainment giant extends Russillo’s deal and, to give him more visibility, changes the name of the show from “The Scott Van Pelt Show” to “SVP & Russillo.” He says, “Over the last three years ‘The Scott Van Pelt Show’ has been my number one priority, and I couldn’t be happier that, for the next few years, it will remain my priority. I believe in the direction of this show and am really looking forward to where we are going.” In addition to his co-hosting duties with Van Pelt, Russillo also hosts the 12:00 noon to 7:00 pm ET edition of College GameDay during the football season.
Dave Ramsey Goes West. Nationally syndicated talk radio sensation Dave Ramsey was in Phoenix and Fresno this week for two live events. First, Ramsey presented his brand new, intimate “Living a Legacy Live Event” in Fresno for the benefit of the audience and affiliate KMJ-FM. Ramsey discussed how to win with money, strengthen marriages and lead your children with confidence. His daughter, Rachel Cruze, joined Ramsey on stage. Peak Broadcasting’s KMJ-FM saw the direct benefits of the live event for their audience and their station. PD Skip Essick says, “Dave Ramsey has an incredible, loyal following, and selling out Saroyan Theater not only speaks to the quality of talent we have in him, but the drawing power of ‘105.9, The FM KMJ.’” Ramsey hosted his “EntreLeadership 1 Day Event” in Phoenix on Wednesday for a packed house at Central Christian Church. Brett Rogers is the sales manager for affiliate KTAR-FM and he says, “KTAR is proud to be a part of bringing this unique training to Arizona’s business community. Through this event, we’ve been able to bring some of our best local partners and provide them the opportunity to change their business and also personally meet Dave Ramsey and have a money-can’t-buy experience. This event has given us the opportunity to engage with our clients in a unique, personal environment.” Dave Ramsey is pictured here with the sales staff of Bonneville’s KTAR-FM.
Brown Corners Hickenlooper. That’s KHOW, Denver talk show host (and former Undersecretary of Homeland Security in the Bush Administration) Michael Brown in the center with the microphone trying to get Democratic Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper (left) on the air on KHOW during the live broadcast prior to Wednesday’s presidential debate at the University of Denver. Brown co-hosts “The Rundown” with author, columnist and talk host David Sirota during PM drive on KHOW and program director Dan Mandis tells TALKERS the duo have had a hard time getting Governor Hickenlooper to appear on their program so Brown took advantage of the governor’s appearance at the event to ask some questions. However, shortly after this photo was taken the governor had to make other appearances and promised to stop by the KHOW remote broadcast booth later but did not.
WIP-AM/FM, Philadelphia’s Angelo Cataldi Donates to Heart Association. Making good on his pre-season pledge to donate $10 to the American Heart Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania in honor of Richie Ashburn Memorial Homeruns for Hearts for each home run hit by the Phillies this season, WIP morning drive host Angelo Cataldi is pictured here writing the ceremonial check for $1,580 dollars matching the Phillies’ 158 homers. The Homeruns for Hearts event was designed to give ordinary citizens the chance to live out their major league dreams. It made its debut in 1997, after the sudden passing of Hall of Famer Richie Ashburn, who succumbed to heart disease. In addition, the event also honors longtime Phillies announcer Harry Kalas, who also died of heart disease in 2009.
Stitcher Launches Podcast and On Demand Radio Awards. The web aggregator Stitcher has announced the launch of the Stitcher Awards, to celebrate the best of on demand radio and podcasts for 2012. Listeners can nominate their favorite shows across 20 different categories – from Best Comedy to Best New Show. Stitcher now has over 10,000 different shows streaming on demand. Nominations will be open until October 19th. Fans can nominate their shows every day for the next two weeks at www.stitcher.com/stitcherawards or on the company’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/stitcherradio. The finalists will be announced shortly afterwards for each category and the winners will be named live in San Francisco in December.
Rick Kaplan Joins NAB as EVP, Strategic Planning. The National Association of Broadcasters announces that former top FCC staffer Rick Kaplan has been hired as executive vice president, Strategic Planning. In this newly created position that will deal primarily with television, Kaplan will lead NAB’s efforts related to spectrum and innovation policy. His first day is Oct. 22. “We are delighted to announce the hiring of Rick Kaplan, whose credibility and integrity are well-recognized both at the Commission and in telecom circles in Washington,” says NAB president/CEO Gordon Smith. “His expertise on spectrum issues will benefit broadcasters greatly as we work with policymakers to ensure a robust local television business for decades to come.”
Odds & Sods. Mixed martial arts is a big draw for the young male demo and “UFC on FX” has been good to the Fox-owned cable channel. Fox Sports Radio Network has been simulcasting “UFC on FX” and continues with tonight’s “UFC on FX: Browne vs. Bigfoot” live from the Target Center in Minneapolis. After the fights, mixed martial arts expert Larry Pepe hosts a Fox Sports Radio wrap-up show with interviews and call-ins from 7 pm to 10 pm PT…..Talk host Tom Donahue announces he’s ending his daily live internet talk show due to financial considerations but will continue with various multi-media projects including his new YouTube channel, podcasts and blog. Donahue says he remains available for guest hosting and for guest interviews…..Dave Raymond and Brett Dolan are out as the radio play-by-play announcers for Houston Astros baseball. The club announces it is beginning the search for their replacements immediately. Clear Channel’s KTRH, Houston is the club’s flagship station.
NJBA Comments Incorporated into Federal Legislation. Pro-radio crusader Paul S. Rotella, president/CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association, reports positive progress in his organization’s efforts to influence the interests of the radio industry in government circles. The House of Representatives recently passed the FEMA Reauthorization Act of 2011 (H.R. 2903), which authorizes the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) and makes improvements to the system including language that broadcasters requested in several key areas: 1. The bill creates an IPAWS Advisory Committee to ensure that the various federal agencies that have a part in the governance of the IPAWS are conducting an ongoing dialogue with message disseminators. (Broadcasters will be represented on the IPAWS advisory committee); and 2. The bill establishes a comprehensive and periodic training program to instruct and educate Federal, State, Tribal, and local government officials in the use of the Common Alerting Protocol enabled Emergency Alert System. Importantly, the bill requires that this training be integrated into the National Incident Management System, which is the Department of Homeland Security’s emergency management doctrine used across the United States to coordinate emergency preparedness and incident management and response. By incorporating the NJBA’s comments regarding EAS training into the National Incident Management System, state and local emergency managers will have to participate in EAS training in order to receive federal homeland security grant funding. The bill now heads to the Senate, which has been considering its own IPAWS bill.
14.8 Million More Americans Watched the Presidential Debate. According to a report from TVbytheNumbers, the first presidential debate of the 2012 campaign on Wednesday evening saw a big spike in the number of people who tuned in compared to the first debate in 2008 between Barack Obama and John McCain. Then, 52.4 million Americans tuned in. On Wednesday, 67.2 million people watched the debate on one of the 12 networks that carried it. Of the big three networks that carried it, ABC grabbed the most viewers with 11.2 million.
First Presidential Debate Victory Top News/Talk Story for Week of October 1-5. The build-up to the first presidential debate and the post-debate analysis was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week and landed atop the Talkers TenTM. The investigation of the Libya consulate attack that claimed the life of Ambassador Christopher Stevens and others was #2. At #3 was the controversy over President Obama’s 2007 speech before a black audience in which he questions why the largely African-American victims of Hurricane Katrina didn’t receive the same assistance as victims of other disasters. Following at #4 was analysis of the presidential campaign polls. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top people and stories discussed on news/talk radio during the week, based on ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
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