Tag: "Saga Communications"
Monday, October 8, 2018
KQED Names Blakley Executive Director/Radio Programming. Four-year Minnesota Public Radio program director Jonathan Blakley is 
appointed executive director of radio programming for Northern California Public Broadcasting news/talk KQED, San Francisco. The Western Michigan University graduate previously was a senior producer and editor at NPR and launched all-news on WKZO, Kalamazoo. He has also worked for all-news WWJ, Detroit and the Associated Press. In other station
news, KQED promotes executive director of news Holly Kernan to chief content officer. She will now oversee news, arts, science, and education for radio and TV programming. Kerman joined the station in 2014 from San Francisco Unified School District news/talk KALW, where she was news and public affairs director. Meanwhile, managing editor Ethan Lindsey succeeds Kernan as executive director of news. Among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s September 2018 report for San Francisco, KQED is #1 for the eighth straight month. Its gain of four-tenths pulls the plug on five downward trends in a row that accounted for a -2.5 (8.9 – 8.4 – 8.1 – 7.1 – 6.7 – 6.4, 6+). In San Jose, KQED progresses from sixth to fourth. It finished first in that Bay Area market between January and June.
Harrison: Neither Side is as Bad as Political Opponents Claim. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, described by TV anchor/moderator/commentator Carol Costello as “the voice of reason” appeared today as a panelist on CNN’s Headline News channel (HLN) to discuss the impact of the Brett Kavanaugh confirmation on the coming mid-term elections. He joined other panelists Republican Scott Jennings and Democrat Nomiki Konst. Jennings supported the President’s assertion that the Democrats and Liberals have become an unruly mob unfit to govern. Konst expressed the opposite view that working people have never faced the level of economic inequality that presently exists and that the Kavanaugh addition to the Supreme Court feeds into the “women are doomed” scenario. When asked by Costello if we as a nation are “going to remain as divided – men versus women, Democrat versus Republican – as we are now permanently forever more?” Harrison replied by saying “Hopefully not permanently. Let’s hope it ebbs and flows as it has through history. Both sides are extremely energized. The coming mid-term election promises to be as exciting, if not more, than a presidential election. But we can’t tell which side will feel that way in a few weeks on Election Day when it will be decided by voter turn-out. From a media standpoint, which is the lens through which I view this, even though both sides in ‘biased media’ express righteous indignation – and there is extreme bias on both sides in the media – both sides are loving this because this is a golden era for media that plays the news for the American public viewing it as a spectator sport. The demonization of the ‘other side’ is just that – excessive hyperbolic demonization. Nothing is going to be so terrible no matter how it plays out. Women are not doomed and the Democrats are not a mob. And if for some reason Trump loses his majority in Congress, he’ll work that to his advantage as well. It’ll be his excuse for not fulfilling all his campaign promises to his base.”
One Putt Lands O’Rorke as VP/GM. Ten-year Lotus Broadcasting Fresno market manager Kevin O’Rorke joins cross-town One Putt Broadcasting as vice president and general manager, succeeding Josh Riley. One Putt partner John Ostlund comments, “We are excited to have Kevin on our team. His passion for radio, [as well as his] experience with many of our clients and involvement in non-profit organizations, makes him a great fit.” Another One Putt partner – Chris Pacheco – notes, “I have known and worked with Kevin many times over the years – he brings tremendous experience to our team.” California State University-Fullerton alum O’Rorke adds, “Radio is an exciting industry, but locally-owned radio with the kind of community focus that Chris and John have demonstrated over the years is very unique. I am looking forward to getting started and making a difference.” One Putt’s Fresno cluster includes sports talk KFIG “940 ESPN Radio”; KFRR “New Rock 104.1”; classic rock KJFX “95.7 The Fox”; triple A KJWL “K-Jewel 105.5”; CHR KWDO “99.3 Now FM”; and classic hits-oldies KYNO-AM.
Daniel Joins Fresno’s KVPR and Bakersfield’s KPRX As News Director. News/talk KQED, San Francisco reporter Alice Daniel is appointed news 
director of similarly-formatted KVPR, Fresno and KPRX, Bakersfield. Valley Public Radio interim president Joe Moore comments, “Alice is a talented reporter and educator, who always finds a way to bring out something special or unexpected in her stories. Six years ago, we didn’t have any local reporters at the station; now, we have three. Our work is increasingly being recognized with awards at the regional and national level.” Daniel remarks, “I am excited by the prospect of working with other reporters to cover this diverse and story-rich region in a way that makes a difference for the community at large. I love the creative process of figuring out the best way to tell a compelling story. There is nothing I love more in journalism than finding that gem of a story that no one else has unearthed.” In addition to contributing to Success Magazine, Daniel – who has a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University – has taught journalism for 17 years at Fresno State University.
TALKERS News Notes. In a presentation to be made this coming Saturday (10/13), Cumulus Media San Francisco news/talk KSFO morning host (5:00 am – 9:00 am) Brian Sussman will receive the Don Sherwood Award from the Bay Area Radio Hall 
of Fame. The listener-voted honor recognizes the Bay Area’s favorite news/talk radio broadcaster for 2018. Sussman replaced Lee Rodgers in morning drive on KSFO 
in February 2010 ….. Beginning this Thursday (10/11), The New York Times debuts “The Argument,” a weekly opinion podcast hosted by three of the paper’s op-ed columnists – David Leonhardt, Ross Douthat, and Michelle Goldberg ….. As reported by the St. Louis Dispatch, “Real Housewife of Orange County” Meghan King Edmonds will appear with “Meghan’s Must Haves” every week on the Sunday morning edition of Rick & Tracey Ellis’ show on Entercom St. Louis news/talk KFTK “FM Newstalk 97.1.” The segment starts this Sunday (10/14). Edmonds is the wife of former St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Angels 
outfielder/current Fox Sports Midwest analyst Jim Edmonds ….. The former six-year general manager of Tri-States Public Radio and an adjunct instructor at Western Illinois University, Jonathan Ahl, will be a Rolla, Missouri-based reporter for University of Missouri-St. Louis news/talk KWMU. Ahl previously was news director and reporter at Iowa Public Radio ….. KTTC-TV, Austin (Minnesota) multimedia journalist James Bunner has been fired for wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat while covering President Trump’s appearance last Thursday in Rochester, Minnesota. KTTC news director Noel Sederstrom said Bunner was let go for wearing campaign gear while covering the political event – not because of his personal politics. Sederstrom told BuzzFeed News, “[Bunner] violated our policy so he’s no longer with us. We don’t allow our people to wear campaign clothing while on assignment.” On the day of Trump’s inauguration, Bunner posted a video of himself on Facebook dancing to “Celebration” (Kool & The Gang). KTTC removed Bunner’s online profile from its website last Friday ….. Listeners will be able to use touch and voice to tune into live iHeartRadio radio stations on Portal and Portal+ – Facebook’s home video communications devices. The Portal comes with a variety of features such as AI-powered video cameras, smart sound technology, and crystal-clear audio. Powered by Amazon’s Alexa voice control system, the video chat devices were introduced today (10/8).
Richard Neer Pens Sixth Murder Mystery Book. Longtime TALKERS columnist Richard Neer, a 30-year sports talk veteran at WFAN, New York and 
former WNEW-FM, New York radio great, has released his sixth Riley King murder mystery, An American Storm (Amazon Digital Services, 2018). This one has a strong radio sub-plot as King’s cohort Rick Stone deals with a career crisis after moving from making big dollars at a large market station to a small labor-of-love outlet, attempting to create a free form talk and music format. He is frustrated by a dearth of callers and the aging demo. Neer is well-known for his landmark radio non-fiction FM, the Rise and Fall of Rock Radio (Villard, 2001) and is developing a large following as a writer of the mystery fiction genre. He can be reached for interviews at novelistcafe@windstream.net. The new book is available at Amazon in both Kindle and paperback editions.
Kavanaugh Confirmation and Ensuing Protests Across the Nation Top the List of Stories Discussed on News/Talk Radio Over the Weekend. The U.S. Senate Confirmation and Swearing-in of controversial Judge Brett Kavanaugh and the protests that took place during and after the vote topped the list of stories discussed on news/talk radio over the weekend. These stories were followed by the US-China trade war; November midterm elections and the battle for control of Congress; the new USMCA deal; the disappearance of the head of Interpol after traveling to China; NFL action during week number five and the MLB divisional playoffs which were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Welsh, Porreca Join JAM Media Solutions. East Orange, New Jersey-based JAM Media Solutions names Donovan Welsh executive vice president of sales and Kerry Porreca executive vice president of finance. JAM Media Solutions closed on its media properties last 
Wednesday (10/3). They take over eight media properties in Outer Banks, North Carolina and Muscatine, Iowa. The Outer Banks properties include WCMS “Water Country”; hot AC WCXL “Beach 104”; WVOD “99.1 The Sound – The Outer Banks’ Alternative”; WZPR “Classic Rock 92.3”; and “The Outer Banks Voice.” The Muscatine properties include classic rock KMCS “Vintage Sound 93.1”; KWPC “The Voice of Muscatine; and “The Voice of Muscatine.” JAM Media Solutions president and CEO Jonathan A. Mason, Sr. remarks, “In the early years of my career in New York, I worked with Mr. Welsh and am honored that he has decided to join JAM Media to oversee our sales efforts. Mrs. Porreca is a veteran finance executive and has extensive knowledge of the Outer Banks. She is uniquely positioned to help us achieve our goal of giving back to the communities we seek to serve. I am humbled to step into the next phase of our collective journey. Our goal is to deliver a first-rate experience for the communities we serve. We love our radio local and our listeners will come to know that for themselves.” Most recently, Welsh was sales manager of Entercom New York sports talk WFAN. Porreca has spent the majority of her professional career in the manufacturing and advertising areas.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Additions at Entercom Los Angeles CHR KAMP “97.1 Amp Radio” 
find DJ Vice hosting “DJ Vice in the Mix” weekdays from 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm and
Krystal Bee joining the station’s weekend lineup. According to Entercom Los Angeles senior vice president and market manager Jeff Federman, “DJ Vice and Krystal Bee have been household names in the Southern California radio and music scene for more than 25 years collectively. We look forward to them delivering a fresh listening experience for fans.” DJ Vice remarks, “As someone who was born and raised in Los Angeles, it is an honor to be a part of the ‘97.1 Amp Radio’ family. This mix is so fulfilling to do for my city, and hopefully, I can ease the pain of our listeners as they sit in L.A. traffic.” Krystal Bee notes that, “[KAMP] has a vision for radio that is so exciting. I have loved working with the team and I am excited about everything the future holds for me, the station, and our amazing listeners.” In 2011, DJ Vice was named one of “America’s Best DJs” by DJ Times. Prior to joining Entercom, Krystal Bee held on-air roles for cross-town rhythmic CHR KPWR “Power 106” since 2011 ….. Following last week’s departure of
brand manager/program director Ron Valeri, Entercom Boston-owned WAAF “The Only Station That Really Rocks” names Joe Galgaro, PD of Saga Communications Milwaukee’s WHQG “102.9 The Hog,” as Valeri’s replacement ….. Most recently doing mid-days for Beasley Media Group Tampa’s WQYK “99.5 New Country Hits,” June Knight joins Entercom Miami’s similarly-formatted WKIS “Country 99.5” as morning drive co-host, where she will pair with assistant program director/music director Tim “TC” Conlon as “TC & June. Knight previously worked in Boston at CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108” and WODS … As we reported last week, Louie Diaz is promoted to vice president/contemporary for the Cumulus Radio Station Group, continuing his role as 
operations manager for Cumulus Media Atlanta and as PD for CHR WWWQ “Q100.” Associated with that move, Cumulus Media vice president/contemporary programming (CHR and hot AC) Cat Thomas departs. Thomas joined Cumulus Media nearly three years ago, after a 27-year career with CBS Radio Las Vegas where he was vice president/programming. For approximately 20 years, he programmed that company’s Las Vegas CHR, KLUC ….. Morning co-host Brian Fowler exits WGAR. He joined “Country 99.5.” in 2011 to team with LeeAnn Sommers, who remains with the iHeartMedia Cleveland outlet ….. Next year’s iHeartRadio “ALTer Ego” officially sold out on the first day on sale. The
second annual music event, which will broadcast live (1/19/2019) across over 70 iHeartRadio alternative and rock stations, reportedly sold out in less than a minute of being on sale to the general public. The “ALTer Ego” lineup at Los Angeles’ Fabulous Forum includes The Killers, Weezer, Rise Against, Twenty One Pilots, Muse, Bishop Briggs, and The Revivalists. Chief programming officer for iHeartMedia Tom Poleman notes, “It was remarkable to watch how fast tickets sold out. All tickets immediately went the moment we made them available. It speaks to the power of the lineup and how fast the ALTer Ego brand has grown in just two years.” Meanwhile, iHeartMedia president/national sales, marketing & partnerships Tim Castelli comments, “The lineup is incredible and reaches the millennial trend leaders who make up the mega-event’s core audience. Given such an amazing response, we are expecting this to break social chatter records like we have done with our lineup on our other 
iHeart marquee events” ….. Former WPIA “98.5 Kiss FM,” Peoria (Illinois) program director Jonathan Steele is named to a similar position at Martz Communications Pittsburgh urban contemporary WAMO …..Tennessee Senate candidate Phil Bredesen and congressional hopeful Jim Cooper have picked up a big-name endorsement – Taylor Swift. The singer usually doesn’t express her political beliefs but notes on Instagram, “Due to several events in my life and in the world the past two years, I feel very differently about that now.” Bredesen and Cooper are Democrats ….. At the box office, Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga’s “A Star Is Born” remake took in $41.3 million. According to comScore, with $174.5 million in tickets sold at United States and Canadian theaters, it was easily the best October weekend ever…. Starting today (10/8), iHeartMedia Columbus CHR WNCI-originated “Dave (Kaelin) & Jimmy (Jam)” will air (6:00 am – 10:00 am) on Alpha Media Canton (Ohio) hot AC WHBC-FM “Mix” 94.1.” WHBC-FM operations manager Bo Matthews comments, “Dave & Jimmy are Ohio guys [who] celebrate the region with their content. They experience all the pain that comes with being Cleveland sports fans. I am super excited for the show they will be providing us every weekday morning.” According to Jimmy Jam, “Canton is my hometown so I have about 200 relatives [who] will be listening every day.”
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Entercom Q2: “Great Progress.” Owing to the addition of CBS Radio, Entercom Communications’ second-quarter net revenue jumped, but fell on a same-station basis. Revenue nearly tripled from $125 million to $372.1 million; however,
on a same-station basis, it decreased from $405.7 million to $372.1 million. Meanwhile, net income dropped from $6.4 million to $1.6 million. Entercom president and chief executive officer David Field notes, “We have made great progress across multiple fronts as we continue our work to capitalize on our transformational merger. We have signed a definitive agreement with Bonneville to complete our last required station divestitures; successfully launched the Entercom Audio Network with strong early revenues; terminated our painful relationship with United States Traffic Network; achieved rapid growth on our burgeoning Radio.com platform; and delivered a 5% reduction in Q2 expenses as we realize our merger-related synergies. Second-quarter revenues were down 8%, exacerbated by the loss of $12 million in revenues from USTN, but revenue performance is improving. We are currently pacing down 2% in the third-quarter, excluding the impact of USTN. For the fourth quarter, we are pacing up 3% on an unadjusted basis. I am proud of the outstanding team we have built and the terrific work they are doing to capitalize on our abundant scale-driven opportunities.”
Local Nielsen Media Impact Debuts. The planning system allows users to understand cross-media reach, frequency, 
and duplication on a local scale using advanced audience segments from Nielsen Scarborough. In addition, it enables advertisers, agencies, and media owners to reach their desired audience in the country’s 25 “Local People Meter” (LPM) Designated Market Areas (DMAs). Local Nielsen Media Impact is built with respondent level data to allow in-depth cross-platform analyses for both local television and radio separately, as well as TV and radio together. Beasley Media Group vice president of sales Bob McCurdy comments, “Local Nielsen Media Impact offers empirical data supporting radio’s ability to amplify and complement TV campaigns. This is the first time radio is included in this type of multi-channel media mix that enables users to derive cross media insights with currency grade accuracy. Nielsen Scarborough data within the NMI solution allows us to assess campaign scenarios against consumer insights.” According to Nielsen vice president of product leadership Jay Nielsen, “Local Nielsen Media Impact offers a unique lens to the industry, enabling effective decision-making about where and when to engage audiences with content and advertising on local levels. Similar to the solution clients have widely adopted on the national level, this local solution unlocks access to new insights on media allocation and schedule optimization to better reach a cross platform-based audience.”
Q2: Townsquare Media “Exceeds Previously Issued Guidance.” Second-quarter net revenue for Townsquare Media rose 1.9% to $11.96 million. Owing to the divestiture of North American Midway Entertainment, however, net 
income decreased by 70.6% to $1.6 million; net income from continuing operations improved 29.2% to $10.1 million. Co-chief executive officer Bill Wilson remarks, “Our second-quarter financial results exceeded our previously issued guidance, continuing the momentum we experienced in the first-quarter of the year. In the first six months of 2018, net revenue increased 2.6%, and 2.2% excluding political revenue; Adjusted EBITDA increased 6.6%. Our second-quarter and year-to-date revenue growth was primarily the result of continued stability in our broadcast products and strong revenue growth of our digital solutions.” Co-CEO Dhruv Prasad notes, “Through internal reorganization and the divestiture of North American Midway Entertainment, we have concluded the strategic reset that we initiated in late-2017 and have largely reoriented the company towards the stability, profitable growth, and cash generation of the advertising, marketing solutions, and live events businesses in our local market footprint. Our strong performance in the first half of this year reinforces that this was the right strategy, and we remain committed to this plan moving forward.”
Rush Limbaugh’s Impact on Radio and America Examined by News Site, Who. What. Why. (whowhatwhy.org) Veteran talk radio programmer and executive Jeff Schechtman of Napa Broadcasting interviews TALKERS founder Michael Harrison about Rush Limbaugh and the state of talk radio for this week’s WhoWhatWhy.org podcast. It is part of an article titled “The Mouth that Roared – How Rush Limbaugh Changed America” posted yesterday (8/7) marking the milestone of the talk radio superstar’s syndicated radio show reaching its 30th anniversary last week. Schechtman and Harrison discuss the impact of the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine in 1987, Limbaugh’s major contributions to the rise of news/talk radio, how talk radio has changed over the decades, the driving factors behind those changes, the influence of the video screen on communications devices, and the general future of talk media. To read the article and listen to the podcast, please click here .
Making Music Great Again. It seems the talented Mike Gallagher isn’t the only member of the Salem roster of talk show hosts blessed with extraordinary gifts as a musical entertainer. These two super-suave lounge lizards pictured above are none other than Salem Radio Network host Larry Elder (left) and WNYM (“AM 970 The Answer”), New York morning man Joe Piscopo (right). The two are off-air buds and like hanging out together when they find themselves on the same coast. This bit of show biz magic was captured last night (8/7) as the two serenaded thrilled diners at Vitello’s, a swingin’ hot spot in Studio City, California. The song they were performing – Louis Armstrong’s classic, “What a Wonderful World.”
Sinclair Q2 Revenue Up 11.9%. While stats for its Seattle radio properties (KOMO “News Radio 1000 & 97.7, KVI “Talk 
Radio 570,” and hot AC KPLZ “Star 101.5) are not broken out in its earnings release, Sinclair Broadcast Group saw second-quarter revenue increase 11.9% year-to-year to $730.1 million; net income attributable to the company fell from $44.6 million to $28 million. Regarding the pending acquisition of Tribune Media Company, Sinclair president and chief executive officer Chris Ripley states, “We are working with them to analyze approaches to the regulatory process that are in the best interest of our companies, employees, and shareholders.” In terms of Q2 results, Ripley notes, “[They] came in well ahead of guidance in all key financial metrics, and we expect the second half of the year to continue to be robust, underlined by increasing distribution revenues and strong political advertising spend. This year’s mid-term elections are expected by many to have the most spending in U.S. history with broadcast television a primary beneficiary.”
Urban One Second-Quarter Net Revenue Down 2.1%. The year-to-year total slips to $115.2 million although broadcast and digital operating income is up 6.1% to $44.3 million. Overall operating income doubles to $24.8 million and net income improves from $802,000 to $23.6 million. Attributed to results in Atlanta, 
Philadelphia, St. Louis, and Raleigh, radio advertising fell 6% to $52 million. There was radio growth, however, in Dallas, Washington (D.C.), and Cleveland. Digital advertising, cable TV advertising, and event revenues are all off, as well; cable TV affiliate fees saw increases. Keeping pace with 2017, Tom Joyner’s 19th “Fantastic Voyage” took place in the second-quarter and generated $9.4 million. Company president and chief executive officer Alfred C. Liggins, III remarks, “Our Q2 radio performance was in line with expectation. After a tough April, the quarter improved sequentially, and we are currently pacing approximately flat for third-quarter. We are launching a new network in January 2019 that will target African-American females and feature lifestyle and entertainment programming. The addition of a second network will help us continue to grow our TV business in the longer term, and has great potential synergy with our existing platform. Our digital segment came in below expectation for Q2, but has had a very strong start to third quarter and we remain optimistic for the back half of the year.”
Lotus Acquires Scripps Stations in Tucson and Boise. Eight stations are involved in the $8 million transaction between (buyer) Lotus Communications and (seller) The E.W. Scripps Company. Lotus president Jim Kalmenson remarks, “We are looking forward to getting to know the many talented professionals at these Scripps radio stations. Both companies share a genuine passion for producing excellent 
local radio and serving the public.” Scripps president and chief executive officer Adam Symson adds, “Lotus Communications’ commitment to serving local communities – with a focus on western region markets in particular – makes it a natural fit to run the Tucson and Boise stations. This deal sets up the stations for continued success.” In Tucson, Lotus picks up and will keep adult contemporary KMXZ “94.9 “Mix FM” and sports talk KFFN “ESPN Tucson,” but will spin urban-rhythmic oldies KTGV “106.3 The Groove” and news/talk KQTH. Its Boise acquisitions include classic rock KJOT “J-105”; rock KQXR “100.3 – The X”; triple A KRVB “94.9 The River”; and classic hits KTHI “107.1 K-Hits.”
TALKERS News Notes. Longtime New York City (WMCA, WINS, WCBS-AM) newscaster and talk host Ralph Howard has died. According to Salem Radio Network vice president of news & talk programming Tom Tradup, “Ralph personified New York City – vibrant, charming, a little edgy, and nonstop energy; I will miss him greatly.” Tradup produced “Ralph & Ryan” on WMCA in the early-1980s; “Ryan” was longtime NBC-TV newsman Bill Ryan. In addition to New York City credentials, Howard worked in Chicago at WIND, WBBM-AM, and WCFL, as well as for The Associated Press and ABC Radio. Until he retired in May 2013, he was a news anchor for Howard Stern, hosting “Howard’s World,” covering Stern’s SiriusXM exploits. This Sunday (8/12) at 3:00 pm, a celebration of Ralph Howard’s life will be observed at New York City’s Riverside Chapel; Howard was 76 years old ….. Alpha Media Portland’s KXL “FM News 101” adds Envision Networks’ two-hour Nik Miles-hosted “Our Auto Expert” to its Sunday afternoon lineup (2:00 pm – 4:00 pm). Alpha Media executive vice president of programming Scott Mahalick remarks, “When it comes to personality and compelling automotive talk, nobody does it better than Nik Miles. We are excited to share ‘Our Auto Expert’ with the world as part of our commitment to bring the best live & local programming to our listener community.” KXL operations manager Bruce Collins notes, “Nobody knows more about the auto industry than Nik. He is both informative and entertaining – we welcome Nik and his show to KXL.” Miles adds, “I am so excited be working with the country’s most forward-thinkers in radio. Being live and local every week gives listeners an opportunity to be the first to hear about groundbreaking automotive stories and stay informed.” ….. The former general manager of Ohana Media Group’s six Anchorage (Alaska) stations – Tom Oakes – is named operations manager for Scripps Radio’s five-station Springfield, Missouri cluster, which consists of KTTS “94.7 Country’s Best”; 
CHR KSPW “Power 96.5”; adult hits KRVI “106.7 The River”; and KSGF AM & FM “News/Talk 1260 & 104.1.” In addition, he will be the program director of KTTS. Springfield Operations vice president and general manager Rex Hansen notes, “Tom Oakes brings years of experience in all formats we operate here in Springfield. Our listeners, team, and advertisers will benefit greatly from his expertise. His coaching skills will make a difference for our air staff immediately.” Oakes remarks, “A busy fall lies ahead as we prepare for not only the next ratings sweep, but continue to work with our on-going projects, promotions and programming needs across the entire cluster.” Oakes previously was vice president of programming for Ohana’s 11 stations in Alaska and Oregon; worked for New Northwest Broadcasters in a variety of upper-management roles with their stations in Alaska, Montana, Oregon, and Washington; and has experience in Omaha, Madison, and South Bend 
(Indiana) ….. The annual Public Radio Program Directors (PRPD) content conference will be held later this month (8/20 – 8/23) at Austin’s Hyatt Regency Hotel. “Pixels and Place” author Kate O’Neill will be a keynote speaker. PRPD is the only national gathering devoted solely to public radio content and programming and this year’s conference, “will be the most format-inclusive in the organization’s history. As every public radio station grapples with consumption, relevance and sustainability, the PRPD is committed to creating a setting where content leaders can learn, network and advance their careers.” ….. Owing to a strategy change regarding original podcasts, Amazon’s Audible Originals senior vice president of original content development Eric Nuzum is departing. The former NPR executive made the announcement in an email earlier this week. Several other Audible Originals staffers – including the entire unit responsible for original spoken-word podcast content – are also exiting, according to published reports. After releasing high-profile shows in its short existence, Audible Originals has more recently shifted to signing major authors to audiobook-first deals.
Round Two of July 2018 PPM Data Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s July 2018 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets, including Washington (D.C), Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s July 2018 survey period covered June 21 – July 18. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.
TEGNA Releases Q2 Financials. The former television division of Gannett, Virginia-based TEGNA, reports that its second-quarter net income from continuing operations was up 87.8% to $92.5 million. “Subscription,” which is the company’s term for television retransmission consent revenue, was up 16%. President/CEO Dave
Lougee notes, “Our progress in the quarter gives us confidence that our growth strategy is on track. Our business mix continues to evolve toward predictable and profitable subscription-based revenue streams. Contrary to conventional wisdom, our paid subscriber base is very stable, and in fact, our total number of paid subscribers was up year-over-year for the first time in recent years.” TEGNA owns or operates 47 TV stations in 39 markets. Results for its San Diego radio properties, news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760 Talk & Breaking News” and rock KFMB-FM “100.7 KFM-BFM,” are not broken out in its earnings releases. The company completed its acquisition of KFMB-AM, KFMB-FM, and KFMB-TV from Midwest Television six months ago for a reported $325 million.
Ohio Special Election/Primaries, Manafort Trial/Gates Testimony, California Wildfire and the Environment, Trump China Tariffs, Alex Jones/InfoWars Banned by YouTube and Facebook, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Discussed Yesterday (8/6). The cliffhanger special election in Ohio and key primaries in several states, the trial of former Donald Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort highlighted by the damaging testimony of Rick Gates; the deadly California wildfire and its connection to the environment; Alex Jones and InfoWars being dropped by several major social media platforms and MLB action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday (8/7), according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Co-host of “The Bob & Tom Show” – Tom Griswold – will host two evenings of live comedy featuring Greg Hahn, Pat Godwin, and Josh Arnold one week from Friday (8/17) at Indianapolis’ Irving Theater and the following night (8/18) at Lafayette, Indiana’s Lafayette Theater. All proceeds
from both shows will go to The Nora Dane Fund, which helps defray the costs of medical treatment and related expenses for two-year-old Nora Dane, who is being treated for a rare, aggressive malignant brain tumor. Griswold states, “Three of my favorite comedians are stepping up to help little Nora. I promise a great night of comedy to support the amazing efforts being made to help this wonderful little girl.” Preferred seating tickets for each show are $75 and include early access to the venue; a meet-and-greet with the featured talent; a photo; VIP laminate; and choice of seating. Griswold and co-host Bob Kevoian originate their Westwood One syndicated show from Cumulus Media Indianapolis flagship WFBQ “Q-95 Indy’s Classic Rock.” ….. In honor of mid-day talent Pat Martin’s 30th anniversary with Entercom Sacramento’s KRXQ “98 Rock,” The Pat Martin All-Star Band will perform tonight 
(Wednesday, 8/8, 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm) as part of a free concert at Folsom, California’s Powerhouse Pub. Guest band members Jeff Keith from Tesla, composer Robert Sabino, and UFO’s “Atomik” Tommy McClendon are among others scheduled to appear. Martin currently fronts the longest consecutive running radio show in Sacramento history ….. As part of an exclusive long-term partnership with Saga Communications, Mediabase and BuzzAngle Music will provide Saga with comprehensive music listening and consumption data for more than 130 radio stations nationwide. Saga Communications vice president of programming Bob Lawrence comments, “Mediabase and BuzzAngle have proven to be essential tools for our many markets and programmers over the years. When presented with the opportunity to put them in our arsenal on a group-wide level, we simply could not resist.” Mediabase president and RCS Worldwide president/CEO Philippe Generali remarks, “We couldn’t be more thrilled to be chosen by the very talented programming team at Saga Communications. This partnership will expand the list of markets covered by Mediabase and complement it with the BuzzAngle sales and streaming data for all Saga stations.” Meanwhile, Jim Lidestri, chief executive officer of Border City Media, the makers of BuzzAngle Music, adds, “Mediabase’s airplay monitoring and BuzzAngle’s extensive consumer analytics is a powerful combination for programmers. We are delighted to partner with Saga to give them the most comprehensive tools to connect with – and engage – their listeners through music.” ….. Tickets go on sale this Friday (8/10) for Stephens Media Group Tulsa alternative KMYZ “Z-104.5 The Edge,”-sponsored “The Edge Halloween Haunt.” The October 31 event will feature The Struts, Meg Myers, and Albert Hammond, Jr. ….. After a four-year hiatus, Corey Garrison will return to Binnie Media Portland, Maine country outlet WTHT “99.9 The Wolf” later this month (8/20) as music director and afternoon driver. Operations manager Stan Bennett notes, “Corey has a great passion for country music. I could not be happier to see him return home and help an already veteran team keep ‘The Wolf’ Maine’s most-listened to country station.” Prior to working for three Blueberry Broadcasting stations in Lewistown-Augusta-Bangor, Maine (WABK, WBAK, and WBKA), Garrison was assistant program director/music director/afternoon talent at “The Wolf” (2007-2014). He takes over for J.C. Coffey, who left WTHT late last month ….. This past Saturday (8/4), 24-year-old Eric Manias was a victim of a home invasion at his New Albany (Ohio) apartment. Manias is a family member of Digi-Dude Nate, who is part of “Bailey and Southside,” the morning team on Cumulus Media Atlanta’s WNNX “Rock 100.5.” Manias was shot twice, beaten, and robbed. Transported to Grant Hospital, he is in critical condition with a fractured jaw and arm; broken hip; and numerous cuts and bruises; he’s had four surgeries thus far. Manias was born with pulmonary atresia, a heart disease in which the pulmonary valve is not properly formed. Shortly after his birth, he had three open-heart procedures. As of noon yesterday (8/7), a fund to help with his medical bills raised more than $5,700 toward a $10,000 goal ….. WOCQ-HD2 “Kool Oldies,” Salisbury-Ocean City (Maryland); WQTL “Kool Oldies 106.1,” Tallahassee (Florida); and KWML “Kool Oldies,” Las Cruces (New Mexico) are the latest affiliates of Envision Networks’ “Wolfman Jack Radio Show.” All three are Adams Radio Group properties. Its president & chief executive officer Ron Stone states, “We are thrilled to bring ‘The Wolfman’ back in our markets where we have great oldies stations playing the best music of all time. We believe the audience our oldies stations target are going to fall in love with ‘The Wolfman’ all over again.”
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Field Answers USTN Lawsuit: “Ridiculous allegations.” As we reported last Monday (Talkers.com, 7/30), in a complaint filed in Harris County, Texas District Court, United States Traffic Network is suing Entercom for material and punitive damages “in excess of $5 million.” USTN alleges
that Entercom entered into negotiations to buy the company and walked away from the deal at the last minute with the intent of developing a directly competitive business. Yesterday (Monday, 8/6), Entercom president/CEO David Field addressed the lawsuit in an internal memo. He writes, “The truth is we have acted in good faith and made every reasonable effort and then some to assist USTN in fixing their challenging 
issues.” Entercom released a statement including the following quote on the situation: “We are relieved to no longer be mired by the difficult USTN situation that was inherited as part of the CBS Radio merger. We will move quickly to augment our strong internal sales organization to ensure that we realize the full value of this inventory. With leading news brands like WINS, New York; KNX, Los Angeles; and WBBM, Chicago, Entercom has the industry’s most valuable traffic inventory. We are pleased to be in control of our own destiny as we pursue opportunities in this attractive market segment.” In response to the lawsuit, Field states, “Entercom believes it is entirely baseless, frivolous and frankly insulting. Entercom has worked tirelessly and constructively with USTN over the past six months to help USTN work through its significant financial issues. Entercom is owed substantial amounts of money by USTN, and the company intends to defend itself vigorously and assert all of its rights.” In yesterday’s memo, Field states, “To say the least, it is disappointing to read the ridiculous allegations that USTN has made when the truth is that we have acted in good faith and made every reasonable effort and then some to assist USTN in fixing their challenging issues. In order to set the record straight and ensure that you have all the facts regarding our relationship with USTN, I have included a summary of the events over the past 8 ½ months.” Click here to read the rest of Field’s memo.
Bortnick Joins iHeartMedia D.C. as Senior VP/Sales. Six-year vice president of sales for Entercom Washington (D.C.), Danny Bortnick crosses the street to become senior vice president of sales for iHeartMedia’s five stations in the Nation’s Capital. Region president Michael Preacher remarks, “We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome Danny to iHeartMedia. Danny has earned a great reputation building client-centric sales organizations while creating a positive work culture. He is the perfect fit for us.” Bortnick adds, “I am thrilled to be joining some of the most iconic brands in [the market], as well as one of the most recognizable media brands in the country.” Bortnick, who has a marketing and management degree from the University of Miami – School of Business, began his radio career 13 years ago as an account executive at Katz Radio in New York City and Atlanta. After a year at Katz, he became an account executive – and later, digital sales manager – at New York City all-news outlet WINS and then, director of sales for Salem Media Group New York City.
Saga Reports 6.5% Q2 Net Revenue Increase. For the quarter ending June 30, Saga Communications net revenue increased to $32.2 million. Meanwhile, operating income increased 2.7% to $6 million and station operating expense
increased 8% to $23.1 million. Free cash flow from continuing operations was $6 million for the quarter, compared to $4.8 million for the same period last year. On a same station basis, net revenue decreased .6% to $30.1 million; operating income increased 1.5% to $6 million; and station operating expense decreased 1% to $21.2 million. The company had $52.9 million in cash on hand as of June 30, and $53.3 million as of yesterday (8/6). The company’s total long-term debt was $25 million as of June 30. Results for the quarter and six-month period were affected by the sale of the company’s television stations and purchase of radio stations in Charleston and Hilton Head (South Carolina) on September 1, 2017. Saga’s 2018 Q2 conference call will be at 11:00 am (ET) today (Tuesday, 8/7). Saga owns or operates 75 FM and 33 AM radio stations.
Gregg Receives Salute to Excellence Award. For the second consecutive year, Entercom Philadelphia’s KYW “News Radio 1060” community affairs 
reporter 
Cherri Gregg is recognized by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). This time, she will receive a “Salute to Excellence Award” at the NABJ’s gala in Detroit. Entercom Philadelphia senior vice president and market manager David Yadgaroff states, “It comes as no surprise that Cherri has been recognized once again for the exemplary work she contributes to KYW. The hard work she has committed in less than a year demonstrates why she is deserving of this honor.” Gregg remarks, “I am honored and humbled by this great recognition. This acknowledgment validates the importance of creating conversation around social issues.” Gregg was recognized in the “Public Affairs” 
category in “Top 15 Markets, Radio.” The specific segment – “Police Transparency – When Should Names of Officers Who Kill Be Released?” – was from her weekly program “Flashpoint,” which airs Saturdays (9:30 pm) and Sundays (8:30 am). Launched in 2017, “Flashpoint” discusses community affairs, political news, civil rights and social issues. Last year, NABJ honored Gregg with a “Salute to Excellence Award” in “TV Investigative – Top 15 Markets” for her piece “Driving While Black,” a collaboration between Entercom and KYW-TV, Philadelphia (Channel 3). Gregg, who joined Entercom in 2010, was president of the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists (2015 – 2016) and vice president of broadcast in 2013. A member of the Pennsylvania and Georgia Bars, she has an undergraduate degree (B.S.) from Boston University; a J.D. from Howard University School of Law; and an M.J. from Temple University’s College of Communications and Theater. Gregg was named one of the Philadelphia NAACP’s Most Influential Black Women and PABJ’s Journalist of the Year in 2013.
Remembering Bill Wattenburg. Cancer has claimed the life of 82-year-old Bill Wattenburg, who died last Thursday (8/2). For 39 years (1972 – 2011), “Dr. Bill” hosted a late night show on KGO, San Francisco where the former nuclear weapons designer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory would answer questions about everything from car repairs to physics. Show promos often referred to him as “The smartest man in the world.” The three-hour program (“Open Line to the West Coast,” 10:00 pm – 1:00 am) aired Saturday and Sunday nights and originated from his home in the Sierras. An occasional caller was Clint Eastwood, who gave Wattenburg a few cameos in the “Dirty Harry” movies. Using the nom de plume Will Harvey, the inventor and former physics professor at the University of California – Berkeley authored an early-1970s best-selling book “How to Find and Fascinate a Mistress.” The success of that book led to him being booked on numerous television talk shows where he debated the merits of feminism with people such as the Gabor sisters and Gloria Steinem. As an inventor, Wattenburg had eight patents to his credit, one reportedly being the first home alarm system using electrical wiring for its communication medium. A 2011 KGO format modification from news/talk to news resulted in several hosts – including Wattenburg – exiting the station. Shortly thereafter, Wattenburg hosted a show on Zwerling Broadcasting System news/talk KSCO-AM, Santa Cruz (California), which – after his death – aired a two-hour retrospective of his radio career.
Spanish Broadcasting System Forecasts Q2 Sales, OIBDA Increases. Preliminary estimated quarter two financial results for Spanish Broadcasting System estimates that consolidated net revenue will be between $34.5 million and $34.8 million, an increase of between 1% and 2% over the same 
period in 2017. Adjusted OIBDA, excluding non-cash stock-based compensation, is projected at $10.8 million – $11.6 million, an increase of 34% – 44% over last year. SBS chair/chief executive officer Raul Alarcon notes, “The company has continued its positive operational momentum throughout the second quarter with strong OIBDA growth and operating margins that continue to be among the highest in the industry. In addition, the announced $14 million sale of our surplus real estate in New York City has successfully closed, allowing for our move to newer and more suitable facilities in midtown Manhattan. A correlated and corresponding repayment of the company’s 12.5% senior secured notes from the net proceeds of the real estate sale has been undertaken, as previously envisioned. We maintain our positive view as to the continuing momentum in 2018 and will be filing our finalized second-quarter results within the next week.”
Ten Radio Groups Support NAB’s Owner Cap Modification Stance. Represented in this particular assemblage of group owners is “a cross-section of the industry” with minority-owned and family-owned entities that have stations in large and small markets. In alphabetical order by group owner, the open letter is signed by Alpha Media CEO Bob Proffitt; Connoisseur Media founder/CEO Jeff Warshaw; Emmis Communications chair/CEO Jeff Smulyan; Midwest Communications COO Michael Wright; Mid-West Family Stations president Thomas Walker; Neuhoff Communications president/CEO Beth Neuhoff; NRG Media president/CEO Mary Quass; Perry Publishing and Broadcasting chair Russell Perry; Townsquare Media co-CEOs Dhruv Prasad and Bill Wilson; and Zimmer Radio of Mid-Missouri president/owner John Zimmer. Read the entire letter here.
Round One of July 2018 PPM Data Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s July 2018 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union. Nielsen Audio’s July 2018 survey period covered June 21 – July 18. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.
TALKERS News Notes. Following stints on New Jersey outlets WMTR and WCTC, Jonathan Friedman’s “Talking 
Sports” (8:00 pm – 10:00 pm) debuts this Saturday (8/11) on Salem Media Group New York City’s news/talk WNYM “AM 970, The Answer.” The 52-year-old New Jersey resident notes, “I wanted to bring the show to a bigger stage. Growing up in Atlanta and being a huge fan of the Atlanta Falcons, Hawks, and Braves, my love for sports started early in my life. No matter who I talk to, the topic always seems to go to sports; that’s how I connect with people.” A 30-year advertising executive, Friedman has been with Success Communications Group the last 15 years and created the “Gotta Go To Mo’s” campaign for Modell’s Sporting Goods ….. St. Louis-based Project 21 co-chair Stacy Washington is broadcasting “Stacy on the Right” live nationwide. The first hour of the weekday talk program is available on all 180 
stations of the American Family Radio Network. The national hour is 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (ET) and can be streamed through the AFR website, TuneInRadio, Facebook, and YouTube. Decorated Air Force veteran and Emmy-nominated TV personality Washington began her broadcasting career several years ago as a fill-in host on news/talk KFTK, St. Louis and began a two-hour program on the Urban Family Talk Network in 2016 ….. Having added ten million listeners over the last few months, iHeartRadio officially surpasses 120 million registered users. It has over 20,000 podcasts in 20 different unique categories, including 750 iHeartRadio original podcasts ….. According to a report by Richard Deitsch in The Athletic, former NFL quarterback (St. Louis Rams, New York Giants, Arizona Cardinals) Kurt Warner will succeed Boomer Esiason as analyst on Westwood One’s “Monday Night Football” broadcasts. Hall of Famer Warner – who has filled-in when Esiason wasn’t available – would work alongside play-by-play announcer Kevin Harlan. According to Deitsch, a formal announcement of the deal is forthcoming ….. In a situation that will have him relocating to the network’s Chicago headquarters, Scott Krus – station manager of religious teaching WCRF “Moody 
Radio,” Cleveland – is promoted to general manager of the national Moody Radio Network. Three-month vice president, and former GM, Doug Hastings states, “Scott has the background, skills, and passion to take Moody Radio into our next season. He is very well known at Moody Radio; respected by staff and industry leaders; and has proven that he will effectively lead Moody Radio as general manager.” Krus, who begins his new duties in approximately four weeks (9/1), comments, “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our teams and [am] energized by the challenge of navigating this ever-changing landscape of media ministry. I believe that Moody is strategically-positioned to expand on its role as a leader in the industry and uniquely equipped to inspire listeners to take that next step in their walk with Jesus Christ. I am looking forward with great excitement to all that God will do in the days to come.”
Paul Manafort Trial/Gates Testimony, Kushner Deleted Stories, Midterm Races, California Wildfire, MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/6). The trial of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort highlighted by the juicy testimony of Rick Gates; claims that Jared Kushner deleted sensitive stories at his newspaper; the attempted drone assassination attempt of Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro; this fall’s midterm elections; the deadly California wildfire; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Premiere Promotes Silcock to VP/Affiliate Relations – Morning Shows. Six-year, New York City-based director of affiliate relations Casey Silcock 
receives vice president stripes from Premiere Networks. In the newly-created position of vice president of affiliate relations – morning shows, Silcock will oversee affiliate sales and serve as the syndicator’s brand manager for programs featuring Elvis Duran; Bobby Bones; Brooke & Jubal; Johnjay & Rich; and Kane. Senior vice president of affiliate relations/talk and morning shows Peter Tripi comments, “Casey has been a valuable member of our team for the past six years, and he has made significant contributions to the growth of our industry-leading morning shows. I’m confident his leadership, sound judgment, and solid relationships with affiliate stations and talent alike will drive continued success for our programming.” Silcock previously was head of promotion for Verve Music Group, a division of Universal Music Group, and held management promotion and marketing positions at Virgin Records America.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Weekend WTXF-TV “Fox 29,” Philadelphia sports anchor Sean Brace will 
appear each Friday at 8:20 am on iHeartMedia Philadelphia rhythmic hot AC WISX “Real 106.1” during “Chio in the AM.” In addition, Brace will contribute to the station’s website and host a Saturday night (7:00 pm – 12:00 midnight) music show. He formerly was heard on cross-town Greater Media (now Beasley Media Group) sports talk WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” ….. It is an eventful day for San Antonio air-on talent named “Cortez.” Taking to Facebook, Tony Cortez announces he is leaving his position as assistant program director/afternoon drive talent at Alpha Media’s CHR KTFM “Energy 94.1,” while “The Dana Cortez Show” was missing this morning at cross-town Univision Radio-owned rhythmic CHR KBBT “98.5 The Beat.” On Twitter, Dana Cortez tweets, “We have some exciting things in the works & want you to be part of.” ….. Promotions coordinator/night personality Edwin Guevara is elevated to promotions director/afternoon host at Townsquare Media Trenton, New Jersey CHR WPST “94.5 – Your New #1 Hit Music Station.” He replaces Tom Shinn, who exited last month. Guevara is approaching his third year at the station, arriving from Kemp Broadcasting Las Vegas rhythmic CHR KVEG “Hot 97.5” ….. Former Bonneville country KYGO, Denver program director Eddie Haskell is named senior vice president of programming for iHeartMedia’s Fort Collins (Colorado) stations. 
According to iHeartMedia Denver area president Amy Griesheimer, “I am thrilled to have someone of Eddie’s caliber and expertise partner with us to lead [our] Northern Colorado dynasty. Eddie’s passion and brand knowledge are unmatched.” Denver region senior vice president of programming Jason McCollim notes, “Eddie’s knowledge and experience in Colorado radio are second to none. His addition to the Fort Collins team will only help to increase our already strong footprint in Northern Colorado.” Haskell adds, “I am so stoked to join the team at iHeartMedia Fort Collins. We have great brands, great programmers, and a great management team.” His prior background includes being operations manager for Cumulus Media Albuquerque and he has held various programming roles in Detroit (WYCD) and Salt Lake City (KKAT-AM). The iHM cluster in Fort Collins includes country KXBG “Big 97.9”; classic hits-oldies KXBG-HD2 “B-107.3”; classic country KIIX “AM 1410 – Country’s Greatest Hits”; CHR KSME “96.1 – Kiss-FM”; classic rock KPAW “92.9 – The Bear”; alternative KPAW-HD2 “Radio 94.9”; and news/talk KCOL “Fox News Radio 600” ….. Grammy winner – and the first “American Idol” – Kelly Clarkson is filming a pilot for a daytime (TV) talk show. Clarkson has a deal with NBC Entertainment, but the pilot is currently not attached to any network; it is potentially being shopped for a fall 2019 debut.
Monday, August 6, 2018
Bonneville To Close on Eight Entercom Stations. All of those particular properties being disposed are in California and have been held in an FCC disposition trust. Bonneville has been operating them under Local Marketing Agreements since the closing of Entercom’s merger with CBS Radio. Acquired by Bonneville from Entercom for a total of $141 million in cash are: CHR KMVQ “99.7 New Hit Music Now”; urban AC KBLX “102.9 The Soul of the Bay”; and adult contemporary KOIT-FM “96.5 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” (all in San Francisco); San Jose classic rocker KUFX “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock”; as well as KHTK “Sports 1140”; KNCI “New Country 105.1”; adult contemporary KYMX “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites”; and hot AC KZZO “Now 100.5 – Today’s Best Hits” (all in Sacramento). The transaction is expected to close either late in the third-quarter of this year, or early in the fourth-quarter. Among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s June 2018 San Francisco sweep, KMVQ and KOIT-FM are tied in fourth-place (3.8), while KBLX is #12 (3.0). In San Jose, KUFX ranks fourth (5.2, 6+). Meanwhile, in Sacramento, KYMX places third (5.9); KNCI is sixth (4.3); KZZO ranks eighth (4.1); and KHTK finishes at #25 (.9, 6+).
One Person Injured at WORT Shooting. Police in Madison, Wisconsin are saying that a shooting shortly after 3:00 am yesterday (8/5) inside Back Porch Radio Broadcasting’s WORT “89.9 Community Radio” does not appear to be a random attack. There’s 
no known motive and no suspect is in custody. Nonetheless, a man wearing a mask and hood entered the station during the transition between the 12:00 midnight and 3:00 am programs and opened fire on three station workers. Witnesses say five shots were fired, injuring one 33-year-old man in the buttocks and shattering the glass between studios. The injured station staffer was sent to the hospital but quickly released. Police said there were no signs of forced entry into the building. WORT board president David Devereaux-Weber told the Wisconsin State Journal that the shooter, “fired a number of shots.” He said volunteers ducked for cover; ran into the master control room before hiding in the music library; and called 911. Devereaux-Weber said that a code is needed to enter the building. It is unclear whether the shooter knew the code or held the door open after someone entered the station. Multiple volunteers arrived to help get the station back on the air at 9:38 am. WORT reportedly plans to tighten security.
Apple Podcasts, Facebook Latest to Remove Jones Podcasts. As we reported last Friday (TALKERS.com, 8/3), Alex 
Jones has had a number of his podcast episodes pulled from Spotify’s service after the digital audio platform concluded the episodes violated its hate content policy. Now, Apple Podcasts and Facebook are taking action against him. Five of Jones’ shows were removed from Apple Podcasts with a spokesperson telling Buzzfeed, “Apple does not tolerate hate speech. We have clear guidelines that creators and developers must follow to ensure we provide a safe environment for all of our users. Podcasts that violate these guidelines are removed from our directory making them no longer searchable or available for download or streaming. We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions.” At the same time, Facebook removed “The Alex Jones Page,” The Alex Jones Channel Page,” “The Infowars Page,” and “The Infowars Nightly News Page.” Facebook notes, “Upon review, we have taken [the content] down for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies. While much of the discussion around Infowars has been related to false news, which is a serious issue that we are working to address by demoting links marked wrong by fact checkers and suggesting additional content, none of the violations that spurred [these] removals were related to this.” Reacting to the earlier Spotify situation, Jones – who is syndicated to radio stations by Genesis Communications Network – said the action is “what I expect. I was born in censorship. I was born being suppressed.”
Entravision Q2 Radio Revenue Flat. Second-quarter radio revenue for Entravision Communications was unchanged
at $17.24 million, while television was off 3% to $36.531 million; digital increased 32% to $20.558 million. Chairman and chief executive officer Walter Ulloa notes that, “Growth in our digital media segment offsets a decrease in our television segment, while our radio segment was flat. We improved our free cash flow and net income over last year’s second quarter. We continued to build our digital footprint through our acquisition of a digital advertising technology company, while implementing steps to more efficiently align operations and reduce costs. Looking ahead, we remain well-positioned to build on our success in further attracting Latino and other audiences worldwide, and expanding our advertiser base to the benefit of our shareholders.” Entravision’s board declared a nickel per share quarterly cash dividend for Class A, Class B and Class U common stockholders. The dividend is payable next month (9/28) to shareholders of record as of September 14.
Kwei-Cook Promoted to Radio One Charlotte LSM. Integrated marketing specialist Debbie Kwei-Cook is elevated to local sales manager of Radio One Charlotte. According to vice president and general manager Doug James, “Debbie has a long history of success in Charlotte and with Radio One. She has been a top performer in our company, most recently winning the President’s Club Award the past two years as the top salesperson and she has extensive management experience. I’m thrilled to be able to have Debbie bring her knowledge, passion, and leadership to our management team.” Kwei-Cook comments, “I look forward to helping the local sales department develop strategic marketing campaigns to drive sales for local businesses.” Kwei-Cook previously spent 11 years as vice president and general manager of Radio One Charlotte and more than ten years as general sales manager of CBS Radio Charlotte. Since October 2012, she has been chief operating officer/president of My Talent Bank Group.
Crossover Media Group Sales Adds Sports Programs. The company will be responsible for advertising sales and assist with production for “DeSean Jackson One-on-One,” a weekly podcast featuring the Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver. In addition, CMGS will syndicate/handle ad sales for “VSiN Action Update,” a series of sports betting vignettes – fed twice each weekday – from the first network dedicated to sports gambling information, Brent Musburger-founded VSiN (Vegas Stats & Information Network). In association with Sports USA and its founder Larry Kahn, CMGS will launch “The Buck Stops Here,” a twice-weekly football podcast hosted by former Indianapolis Colts tight end Charles Arbuckle. A weekly podcast hosted by Joe Morgan – “Classic Conversations with Joe Morgan” – will feature the MLB Hall of Fame second baseman speaking with some of the biggest names in sports history. Crossover Media Group Sales managing member Ron Hartenbaum comments, “The recent Supreme Court decision on sports wagering has opened up enormous opportunities to generate local ad revenue, not just on sports radio stations but within the rock and country formats – namely, anywhere men are listening. We are thrilled to be able to add the new VSiN content, as well as the new offerings from DeSean, Larry, Joe, and Charles to our expanding lineup of show offerings to marketing partners.”
CONSULTANT OPINION: Rush Limbaugh Affiliates Should PANDER to Trump Fans. In an opinion piece posted today (8/6), media consultant Holland Cooke writes that Rush Limbaugh affiliates should capitalize on the solid numbers available to them by taking advantage of Limbaugh’s recent ratings increases and telling ardent supporters of President Trump exactly what they want to hear. Cooke writes, “’Pander.’” That is your one-word, sure-shot ratings success strategy… Check logic at the door. Unlike those pesky fact-checkers, Trump supporters take him seriously-but-not-literally. Our job is to exploit THE – repeat, THE – best thing that ever happened to talk radio, the Trump presidency.” To read the entire piece, please click here.
CONSULTANT OPINION: A Real Producer Can Protect a Talk Show Host from Saying Something Stupid. Former WWRL 1600 AM, New York executive producer, Jeffrey Haveson – now an independent news/talk programming consultant – writes a provocative opinion piece posted in TALKERS today (8/6) stating that incidents such as the recent “Turban Man” controversy at New Jersey 101.5, Trenton could be avoided if radio stations employed what he calls “real” producers. Haveson writes, “Dennis Malloy and Judi Franco are back at Trenton-based New Jersey 101.5 after a 10-day suspension, but what have we learned from this as an industry? For those who don’t know or have forgotten, the suspension was meted out to Dennis and Judi after they repeatedly called New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewalon, who is a Sikh, ‘the guy with the turban’ and ‘Turban Man,’ and Dennis defended the name calling by saying ‘if that offends you, then don’t wear the turban (man) and I’ll remember your name.’ This is a perfect example of why talk radio stations, be they public or commercial, news talk, conservative talk, progressive talk, sports talk, financial talk, or other, need real producers. By real producers, I do not mean the glorified gofers and ‘yes people’ that many stations call producers nor an overworked board op who is also charged with screening calls and chasing down guests. On the other hand, by real producers, I also don’t mean someone who acts as the host’s supervisor. The program director should be the supervisor over both the host and the producer. A real producer is a trusted partner to both the program director and host, who shares their vision for this particular program and the station in general, and supports the host in creating content that fits that vision. It is all about the vision. If the host and/or the producer don’t have the same vision for the program as the program director, one or both of them need to be replaced.” To read the entire opinion piece, please click here.
WPRO-AM Inks Five-Year Deal for P.C. Basketball. Beginning with the upcoming season, Cumulus Media Providence news/talk WPRO-AM will become the official radio home of Providence College men’s basketball. It is part
of a five-year agreement with Providence College Athletics and its multimedia rights holder, Learfield. Cumulus Media Providence market manager Holly Paras declares, “Providence College is the premier men’s college basketball program in Southern New England. We are enthused about the partnership and look forward to many great seasons of Friar basketball.” Providence College athletics director Bob Driscoll comments, “Cumulus Media has the top radio brands in our market and this will provide unlimited marketing and exposure opportunities for us. This is a tremendous partnership for our basketball program and our fans.” The school’s men’s basketball coach Ed Cooley adds, “WPRO [AM] is a big part of the culture of radio in Rhode Island and Southeastern New England. I believe this will provide our fans the opportunity to get more coverage and access of Friar basketball. We are looking forward to hitting the airwaves on WPRO [AM], the new home of Providence College men’s basketball.” John Rooke and Joe Hassett, the voices of Friar basketball for more than 30 years, will call all Friar games this season. “The Ed Cooley Radio Show” will air on select weeknights throughout the season.
TALKERS News Notes. Former NFL lineman Orlando Franklin joins Bonneville Denver sports talk KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan.” According to KKFN program director Armen Williams, “We are really excited to have Orlando as part of our championship team – he has a 
sincere passion to be on ‘The Fan.’ It’s great to have Orlando on our game day on-air presentation.” Originally drafted in the second round by the Denver Broncos in 2011, Franklin retired in May and he notes, “I’ve known this is what I’ve wanted to do after football for years. I love the interaction the sports radio platform provides. It is an honor to now be on the same team as a lot of these guys that I’ve listened to my whole career.” In addition to the Broncos, Franklin has played for the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, and Washington Redskins ….. Meanwhile, six-year KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” veteran Ted Johnson departs the afternoon program
(“Triple Threat”) at the Entercom Houston outlet. A rotating group of analysts will join remaining co-hosts Sean Pendergast and Rich Lord. Former New England Patriots linebacker Johnson is reportedly moving back to Boston to be closer to his children ….. Tulsa’s NBC-TV affiliate, KJRH-TV “2 Works For You,” will be providing news and weather content for that market’s iHeartMedia cluster. “Our staff is very excited to work with the team at Channel 2,” comments iHeartMedia area president Jon Phillips. [Meteorologist] Mike Collier is a favorite in our building; he and his team will sound great delivering weather to the iHeart audiences. Keeping our listeners safe is our first priority and the team at Channel 2 will ensure just that.” The iHeartMedia Tulsa group consists of sports talk KTBZ “1430 The Buzz”; sports talk KAKC “1300 The Buzz”; rock KMOD; country KTGX “106.1 The Twister”; CHR KTBT “92.1 The Beat”; regional Mexican KIZS “101.5 El Patron”; and classic rock KTGX-HD2 “93.5 The Jet.” KJRH-TV had been working with the Scripps cluster; however, when Scripps sold its Tulsa stations to Griffin Communications, it joined forces with Griffin’s CBS affiliate in the Oklahoma metro, KOTV-TV ….. This past Friday (8/3), Townsquare Media’s KFYO “News/Talk 95.1 & 790,” Lubbock (Texas) originated Chad Hasty’s 8:30 am – 11:00 am show from Austin’s Resurgent Gathering. Among those Hasty interviewed there were Texas senator Ted Cruz and Texas GOP chair James Dickey ….. Speaking of Townsquare Media Lubbock, Dave Dunaway is named regional operations/programming manager for its stations there, as well as in Odessa-Midland. There are ten Townsquare Media facilities in those two Texas metros. Dunaway most recently programmed and did afternoon drive at Cumulus Media Fort Walton Beach (Florida) country outlet WYZB “Nash FM.” He has also worked for WZZK, Birmingham, as well as WTGE “100.7 The Tiger,” Baton Rouge.
WRKO, Boston Morning Co-Host Kim Carrigan Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. One of the most familiar figures in local Boston talk media, Kim Carrigan, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” For the past several years, Carrigan – a political moderate with a background in journalism – has co-hosted WRKO, Boston’s 6:00 am to 10:00 am morning show, sharing the mic with conservative personality Doug “VB” Goudie and the program’s on-air producer Jim Clerkin, who is liberal as well as openly gay. The result is a dynamic, eclectic mix of topics and opinions on a station otherwise positioned in a more purely conservative orientation. Prior to joining WRKO as a talk show host, Carrigan spent a number of
years as a Boston television personality on several local stations, most recently co-hosting the popular morning news/chat show on WFXT-TV (Fox 25). She and Harrison discuss the differences between radio and TV morning news/talk, the evolving role of women in radio, the challenges of balancing local and national issues in the Trump era, and the strategy of expanding the target base on a predominantly conservative station. Harrison, who occasionally serves as a fill-in host on WRKO, including its morning show, says, “Kim Carrigan is one of the best local talk show hosts in radio today. She brings journalistic sensibility and fairness to the table without sacrificing the power of opinion that fuels the news/talk format. She projects youthful dynamism tempered by seasoned journalism and general life experience – a great combination. She has the glamor of celebrity balanced with a down-to-earth neighborly persona. The WRKO morning show is an interesting exercise in navigating the turbulent waters of today’s news/talk radio conversation. It’s wonderful having Kim as a guest on the podcast.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
Flair for Fort Myers. The “Nature Boy” himself – Ric Flair – is among the grapplers scheduled to appear when Beasley 
Media Group presents the inaugural “Legends of Wrestling” event next month (9/15) in Fort Myers at Suncoast Credit Union Arena. The “ultimate fan experience” will kick off with a behind-the-scenes VIP meet and greet and question & answer session (3:30 pm – 5:30 pm). In addition, there will be an opportunity to take photos with the wrestlers (5:00 pm – 7:00 pm) before the matches begin at 7:00 pm. As well as Flair, other “sports entertainment” stars slated to be on the card include Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat; Jim “Hacksaw” Duggan; Jimmy “The Mouth of the South” Hart; and The Nasty Boys – Brian Knobs & Jerry Sags. Ticket prices range from $20.02 for general admission to $210.82 for VIP and ringside seating. Beasley Media Group’s six-station Fort Myers cluster consists of sports talk WWCN “99.3 ESPN Southwest Florida”; news/talk WJBX; adult contemporary WJPT “Sunny 106.3”; CHR WXKB “B-103.9”; WRXK “96 K-Rock”; and Spanish tropical WRXK-HD2 “98.1 Playa.”
Trump-Russia Investigation, Manafort Trial, Trump Rally/Mid-Term Elections, New China Tariffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories this Past Weekend (8/4-5). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia agents; the trial of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort; President Trump’s Tampa rally for Florida gubernatorial candidate Ron DeSantis and the larger, mid-term election picture; Trump’s threat to add tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Starting today (8/6), DSC rejoins iHeartMedia San Diego classic rock KGB-FM for 6:00 am – 10:00 am duty. DSC consists of Dave Rickards, Cookie “Chainsaw” Randolph, Chris Boyer, Nina “Ruth 66” Reeba, Emily Maguire, and Sarah Beebe. Coinciding with DSC returning to KGB for morning drive, Bob & Coe move
from mornings to afternoon drive; Clint August segues from afternoon drive to middays; and Marc Coppola will host nights. Market president Melissa Forrest comments, “Bringing DSC home to KGB and reinforcing the station with heritage talent like Clint, and Bob & Coe is a reflection of the power behind KGB’s legendary call letters. We are immensely proud to bring this lineup to San Diego’s loyal rock listeners.” Rickards remarks, “After 28 years as the top-rated morning show in San Diego, DSC has come full-circle with its return to the legendary KGB-FM. I’ve always felt that KGB was our home, and nothing beats a happy homecoming.” Meanwhile, “Chainsaw” adds, “It feels amazing to bring DSC back to where it all began. We are thrilled to continue making you smile and laugh coffee out of your nose every morning.” ….. Following 
April’s departure by morning hosts Mason & Remy, iHeartMedia’s WEBG “Big 95.5 – Chicago’s New Country” transitions the syndicated Bobby Bones show from a delayed nighttime airing to morning drive (5:00 am – 9:00 am). WEBG program director Lance Houston comments, “The Bobby Bones Show really connects with the core country audience more than any other show I’ve ever seen throughout my career. I am truly confident that Bobby Bones and his team will be an entertaining morning show for our one million-plus weekly country radio audience in Chicagoland.” Meanwhile, iHeartMedia Chicago Region president Matt Scarano notes, “We are excited to add the most recognizable name in country radio to our morning lineup.” ….. When hearing that a local wheelchair-bound woman was refused service at a local (St. Peters, Missouri) nail salon, Hubbard St. Louis adult hits WARH “106.5 The Arch” morning co-host 
Cassiday was “heartbroken.” A representative of another local establishment – Cut and Dye Salon – contacted (“Spencer’s Neighborborhood” member) Cassiday and offered to treat the mother (Dorothy) and daughter (Beth) to a full-day of pampering, noting that everyone should be welcome. Cassiday recounts, “It was shocking to learn that she and her mom went in for a pedicure, only to be told by the salon owner they don’t serve people ‘like her.’ I knew we needed to do something. I was confident, with the power of local radio, ‘The Arch’ could take a hurtful moment and make it positive for them. We had them come in to meet us and surprised them with a spa pedicure live on air. To be able to bring a smile to the face of this young woman was priceless. In days like this, I am reminded of the power of radio and that there are good hearts across the St. Louis bi-state.” ….. “Phoebe’s Flight 5K,” an Entercom Sacramento-hosted event, will take place this Sunday (8/12) at Johnson-
Springview Park in Rocklin (California). Emceed by (CHR) KUDL “106.5 The End” morning hosts Gavin Ferguson, Katie, and Rayne, the “rain or shine” happening will feature a fun run for children and a 5K run for adults; post-race activities will follow. Phoebe’s Fund was founded by Ferguson and his wife Stacy in honor of their daughter Phoebe, who was stillborn. Race proceeds will benefit Phoebe’s Fund, a 501(c)(3) charity which helps alleviate the financial burden of parents who have lost a child to 
miscarriage or stillbirth by providing grants for grief therapy …. WABD “The Gulf Coast’s Hit Music Station,” Mobile mid-day talent Jimmy Steele adds program director duties at the Cumulus Media mainstream CHR. Steele will continue as the cluster’s operations manager and PD of the company’s Mobile news/talker WXQW. Cumulus Media Mobile vice president/market manager Don Boyd comments, “We are fortunate to have deep talent here with one of the country’s top CHR programmers, Jimmy Steele, already in the building. Under Jimmy’s direct leadership, he [will continue] to evolve this legendary radio station.” Steele remarks, “I am excited to roll up my sleeves and splash back into my CHR roots. It is an honor to be able to come to work each day and serve our talented Cumulus Mobile team. They are very supportive and for that, I am grateful.” Steele previously programmed several iHeartMedia stations and was operations director/brand manager for Saga Communications in Columbus. He succeeds Sid Kelly, who transfers to Cumulus Media Indianapolis as program director of CHR WYRG “Energy 93.9.” ….. WRUF, Gainesville names Justin “Tyler” Clapp brand manager/afternoon personality at the University of Florida-owned country outlet. Most recently, Clapp was operations manager for Townsquare Media Fort Collins (Colorado) and brand manager of country KUAD. He formerly programmed WWGR, Fort Myers (Florida) from 2007-2009, and was Great Eastern’s director of programming ….. Vice president of operations Don London is celebrating his 25th year at Entercom Norfolk.
Two Cool Cats. A couple of rock ‘n’ roll’s coolest cats got together in the Los Angeles studios of SiriusXM Satellite Radio this past week. The legendary Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon (pictured right), whose numerous hits from the 1960s include “Palisades Park,” “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans,” “Tallahassee Lassie” and more, visited with Stray Cats drummer Slim Jim Phantom (left) to record an interview for Jim’s Sunday night show, “Rockabilly Rave Up” heard on the “Underground Garage” channel. The interview will be aired on 8/19 at 8:00 pm ET.
Friday, August 3, 2018
Beasley Broadcast Group Q2 Revenue Up 1%; Station Operating Income Up 3.5%. Net revenue for the second quarter of 2018 was $61.6 million for Beasley Broadcast Group – an increase of 1% over the same period in 2017. For the first six months of 2018, net revenue was $116.8 million – up from $114.8 million in 2017. Beasley CEO
Caroline Beasley comments, “Beasley’s second quarter results reflect our ongoing execution of strategies to drive revenue, productivity and growth across our local radio broadcasting and digital platforms. The 1% year-over-year increase in second quarter revenues combined with essentially flat station expenses and the operating leverage related to the top-line growth resulted in a 3.5% increase in second quarter SOI. Overall, our second quarter 
results again demonstrate the efficiencies we are realizing related to our expanded scale and the operating leverage in our model, which collectively led to a 28.6% increase in earnings per share. During the second quarter, Beasley remained committed to enhancing shareholder value through capital returns and capital structure improvements. In this regard, we declared our nineteenth consecutive quarterly cash dividend. In addition, interest expense decreased approximately 20% year-over-year to $3.8 million, reflecting the recent refinancing of our senior debt, which reduced our interest rate by 200 basis points. We used cash from operations to make voluntary debt repayments of $2 million in the second quarter and ended June 30, 2018 with total outstanding debt of $220 million.” As previously reported, on May 1, 2017, Beasley completed the sale of six stations in Greenville-New Bern-Jacksonville, and on December 19, 2017, Beasley completed an asset exchange transaction whereby it exchanged its Boston adult contemporary station WMJX-FM and $12 million for Boston’s sports station WBZ-FM. The results reflect the operations and results from WBZ-FM in the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and WMJX-FM in the three and six months ended June 30, 2017. The results also reflect one month of contribution from the Greenville-New Bern-Jacksonville stations in the three-month period, and four months of contribution in the six-month period ended June 30, 2017. The $0.6 million, or 1.0%, year-over-year increase in net revenue during the three months ended June 30, 2018, reflects the inclusion of WBZ-FM Boston, partially offset by the disposition of WMJX-FM Boston and the Greenville-New Bern-Jacksonville stations.
E.W. Scripps Radio Revenue Hit by Write-Down of Stations Value. The sale of its radio stations has been the focus of industry news about E.W. Scripps as it re-aligns to
concentrate on its television and OTT businesses. As a result, it has been reporting its radio segment as “discontinued operations” in recent quarterly reports. In the second quarter of 2017, the radio segment’s income was $1.7 million. The second quarter of 2018 has produced a loss of $2.9 million as the result of “non-cash charges of $25.9 million to write down the assets of the radio business to fair value.” Scripps has agreed to sell its five-station Tulsa cluster to the local Griffin Communications for $12.5 million and its Milwaukee duo to Good Karma Brands for $16 million. The company has 27 stations in six markets for which it continues to seek buyers.
Report: Cain to End Talk Show on WSB-AM, Atlanta. As reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Rodney Ho, talk show host and former presidential candidate
Herman Cain is exiting his daily, 11:00 am to 12:00 noon program on Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM “News 95.5 and AM 750.” Cain – who assumed the late morning show slot after Neal Boortz’s retirement in 2013 – will continue with the station doing a daily, two-minute commentary leading up to the noon newscast. To fill the hour, Eric Von Haessler’s program will expand to the entire 9:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart.
Spotify Pulls Some Alex Jones Podcasts For Violation of ‘Hate Policy.’ Media personality Alex Jones has had a number of his podcast episodes pulled from Spotify’s service after the digital audio platform concluded that the episodes violated its hate content policy. According to the Associated Press report, the episodes became notorious on social media, forcing the company to act. It issued the following statement: “We take reports of hate content seriously and review any podcast episode or song that is flagged by our community. Spotify can confirm it has removed specific episodes of ‘The Alex Jones Show’ podcast for violating our hate content policy.” According to the AP story, Jones said the action is “what I expect. I was born in censorship. I was born being suppressed.”
Perry Stone Named OM for Mid-West Family Broadcasting in Springfield, Illinois. Programmer and air personality Perry Stone joins Mid-West Family Broadcasting’s Springfield, Illinois four-station cluster to serve as operations manager for news/talk WMAY-AM/W234CC and rock WQLZ-FM, effective August 6. In addition to his OM
duties for both stations, Stone will host the afternoon show on WQLZ. Stone was most recently with Saga Communications in Charlottesville, Virginia as operations manager for news/talk WINA-AM/FM and rock WWWV. The company says Stone “has worked on-air in markets as large as New York City and San Francisco and as small as Carbondale, Illinois. So, he not only knows Illinois, but he understands the opportunities and challenges in markets of all sizes.” Mid-West Family Springfield general manager Harvey Wells says, “We conducted a nationwide search for this position and Perry’s experience both in management and on-air made the difference. I’m looking forward to him joining our off and on-air team.” Stone remarks, “It’s great to get back to the Midwest. I spent time in Carbondale and in Milwaukee and have always enjoyed the people and places there. I’m looking forward to getting to know all that Central Illinois has to offer. In addition, Mid-West Family Radio is one of the most respected companies in radio. I could not be happier.”
Wilson and Parcell New Midday Hosts on WFNZ, Charlotte ‘The Fan.’ After Chris
Kroeger was named the new play-by-play voice of the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, Entercom sports talk outlet WFNZ “The Fan” conducted a search for his replacement in middays and announces that Nick Wilson (inset) and Josh Parcell (right) begin as the new midday stars on Monday (8/6). Wilson was most recently with the company’s WKRK, Cleveland “92.3 The Fan” where he hosted the evening program. Parcell has done fill-in work on WFNZ and has served as a producer for ESPN.
Smith Promoted to VP of Engineering for Beasley Media Group. Moving up from his regional engineering director & corporate project manager position with Beasley Media
Group to vice president of engineering is Lamar Smith. He’s been with the company for the past seven years and he’ll continue to be based in Charlotte where he’ll manage large corporate projects throughout the country as well as assist in overseeing the company’s engineering staff. Smith also currently serves as vice president of the Emergency Broadcast Association.
Mickey Moore Appointed VP of Sales at iHeartMedia Minneapolis. Media sales and marketing pro Michelle “Mickey” Moore is the new vice president of sales at iHeartMedia’s Minneapolis station group that includes news/talk KTLK and sports talk KFXN “The Fan.” iHM Minneapolis also has franchise partnerships with the Minnesota Vikings, the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, and the University of Minnesota. Moore joins
iHeartMedia Minneapolis from Franklin Covey, where she served as a client partner. She previously worked at iHeartMedia as the general sales manager for KDWB-FM 
from 1994 to 2001. Moore’s sales background also includes American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio, where her positions included managing director of inclusion and community impact, senior director of organization development and senior director of underwriting sales. Region vice president of sales for iHeartMedia’s Western Great Lakes Region Greg Alexander says, “We are pleased to have such a respected, seasoned leader like Mickey join iHeartMedia Minneapolis. Her wealth of industry experience and her ability to blend creativity and sales strategy will benefit both our sales team and our clients.”
TALKERS News Notes. It was a frightening experience for WWJ-AM, Detroit reporter Mike Campbell as an apparently disturbed man smashed the window of his station
vehicle while he was filing a live report on a fatal car crash in the city. He was unhurt in the incident and was able to successfully file his report. Numerous reporters form various outlets were on the scene when the suspect (who was subsequently tasered and subdued by police) used a metal baton to smash the windows of two station vehicles while shouting obscenities and racial slurs…..Former NFL tight-end Martellus Bennett debuts his new 
podcast, “Revenge of the Jocks,” on PodcastOne Sportsnet. The company says the weekly program “goes beyond Martellus, the athlete, as the Super Bowl champion explores the infinite world of creativity. Speaking firsthand, as an entrepreneur, musician, animator, sketch artist, children’s author and app creator himself, Bennett will be joined by fascinating friends to discuss a broad spectrum of topics, including what it means to be a creative, activist, and overall culture-shaping world-changer.”…..Entercom sports talk WIP-FM, Philadelphia relaunches the “Go Birds” podcast hosted by station personalities John Barchard and James Seltzer. The radio show will continue to air on Saturdays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on “SportsRadio 94WIP.” The podcast will be available on Radio.com. Entercom Philadelphia SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff states, “Both the podcast and radio show have been Eagles fan favorites and we are excited to continue the tradition. The name of the show might be changing, but fans can expect the same insight into their favorite football team.”…..VSiN – the network dedicated to sports gambling
information – announces a partnership with sports talk KNBR, San Francisco that taps VSiN to deliver daily Bay Area-focused updates for the station. Starting Monday (8/6), KNBR will run “VSiN Action Updates” covering how the sports betting markets are reacting to Bay Area sports teams. VSiN will supply one report in the 9:00 am hour and another in the 5:00 pm hour each weekday from its Las Vegas studio at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa. KNBR program director Jeremiah Crowe says, “We are excited to partner with VSiN in bringing top-notch gaming updates to the KNBR airwaves. VSiN continues to be an industry leader in this space and VSiN founder Brent Musburger has had his finger on the pulse of sports gambling for decades.”…..SAG-AFTRA and New York Public Radio announced that they have reached a Voluntary Recognition Agreement that will add per diem and temporary employees working in SAG-AFTRA covered titles to the union’s longstanding contract that currently covers more than 100 full-time workers at NYPR. The Agreement adds more than 30 people to a larger group that has been represented by SAG-AFTRA since 2000…..Longtime Purdue University sports broadcaster Larry Clisby is fighting stage 4 lung cancer and metastic brain cancer. The problem is Medicare doesn’t cover all of his medical bills. Family have started a GoFundMe page to which people can donate. Clisby became the radio voice of Purdue men’s basketball in 1984. He also called Boilermakers football for 10 seasons.
Trump-Russia Investigation Top News/Talk Story for Week of July 30 – August 3. The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Donald Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the trial of former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort on financial fraud charges. Coming in at #3 was the Trump administration’s immigration policy tied with the related story of the Portland mayor’s battle with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials, followed by the midterm races and the reports of continuing Russian election interference at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See the entire chart here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. A GoFundMe page has been set up for former triple A KINK, Portland program director and air personality Sean Demery. He is battling to recover from a brain stem stroke suffered
in January of this year and his insurance has run out, causing financial struggles for him and his family. You can donate here.…..An ill-advised Facebook post has cost classic rock WKLR, Richmond morning personality his job. Brady DeAngelo posted a picture of the back of a woman sitting at a bar and a caption that contained coarse language. You can see WTVR-TV, Richmond’s coverage, including a screen capture of the post here. DeAngelo commented, “I made a joke that some 
thought was inappropriate on my personal Facebook page and it became more of an issue than I believe it should have become.”.….KLAL, Little Rock “Alice 107.7” morning show personalities Heather (left) and Poolboy (right) were honored with the Best Radio Personality award from The Arkansas Times. This marks the fourth consecutive win in the Best Radio Personality category for the duo. CHR KLAL was named Runner-Up Best Radio Station for 2018, a category it has won or received runner-up in each year since 2010…..iHeartMedia announces it has partnered with Super Hi-Fi to introduce “new AI capabilities” that will make the iHeartRadio digital platform sound more like a live radio show. iHeartMedia says, “The new integration brings the best of live broadcast radio to digital streaming music by delivering flawless song transitions, including precise crossfades, volume leveling and truly gapless playback to iHeartRadio’s listeners.”
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Emmis Fiscal Q1 Net Revenue Down 4%. Reporting financial data for the fiscal first quarter that ended on May 31, Emmis Communications states net revenue for the radio division was $26.4 million, down from $38.7 million during the same period a year ago. That percentage figure of -4% is pro forma, taking into account the recent sales
of stations, including the St. Louis cluster that it sold to Entercom that closed on April 30. The report notes that Emmis’ net revenue was down 4% “in markets that were down 6%.” Emmis used the net proceeds to repay credit facility debt, resulting in approximately $20 million of net credit facility debt outstanding. Chief executive officer and chairman of the board Jeff Smulyan says, “Emmis has made tremendous strides in paying down our debt and giving ourselves the financial flexibility to pursue new areas of growth. We see opportunities both inside and outside of traditional media as we look to transform the company in the coming months and years.”
Two News Pros Return to KIRO-FM, Seattle. At Bonneville International’s Seattle news/talker KIRO-FM, director of news and programming Ryan Maguire announces that Jillian Raftery is returning to the station as midday news editor and Heather Bosch is joining the station to serve as afternoon news anchor. Raferty has been working as a sales and marketing consultant in Vancouver, BC for the past two years.
She says, “I fell in love with radio and storytelling listening to KIRO Radio growing up. I started my career at the station in 2011 as an intern and after graduating from college returned and worked my way through many roles on the digital and news teams, serving as digital editor, social media manager, midday and morning editor, reporter, as well as filling in on anchor shifts…I am thrilled to come home and get to know the ever-changing Seattle landscape all over again.” Bosch has been serving with CBS Radio News in New York as a national correspondent for the past five years. She comments, “I’m thrilled to be back at KIRO Radio – my broadcast home for 10 years! After five years as a Manhattan-based CBS Network News correspondent, I’m eager to share what I’ve learned while covering big, breaking news stories like the Boston Marathon bombing, and investigating more complex issues, such as the experience of women serving in the US military.” Maguire adds, “Heather and Jillian are great additions to our award-winning and diverse news team. I want to thank our managing editor Colleen O’Brien for her work in these very thorough job searches. We’re proud that KIRO continues to attract the best and brightest in the industry.”
Graham to Host Afternoons on WSJS, Greensboro. Sports talk personality Josh Graham is the new afternoon drive host on Curtis Media’s WSJS,
Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point, effective July 23. Curtis Media says that “The Drive with Josh Graham” will air on WSJS-AM; WPCM-AM, Burlington-Graham and six of the company’s other AM and FM signals, as well as via the WSJS Sports app. Curtis Media Group Triad GM Al Bunch says, “Local sports fans are in for a treat. After a nationwide search that generated hundreds of applicants, Josh stood above the rest. Josh is passionate about ACC and North Carolina sports, has strong opinions and boundless energy. You may not always agree with him, but you will always be entertained and informed with Josh’s inside information and deep knowledge of sports.”
Iowa Radio Pro Maxwell Schaeffer Joins iHM Des Moines. On-air pro Maxwell Schaeffer is named director of promotions and marketing for iHeartMedia’s Des Moines cluster, effective August 10. In addition to his
day-to-day promotional and marketing operations duties, Schaeffer will also make on-air appearances on cluster stations, including on news/talk WHO “News Radio 1040.” Area market president Joel McCrea says, “Everyone in Des Moines knows Maxwell. He is a friend to many charitable organizations as well as the arts and the business community, giving him a solid understanding and connection to the market.” Schaeffer joins iHeartMedia Des Moines from Saga Communications where he served 23 years as a morning show host on classic hits KIOA-FM, Des Moines. Schaeffer is a member of the Iowa Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk media superstar Sean Hannity is hosting his Premiere Networks radio program and his FOX News Channel show from
London through tomorrow as he covers President Trump’s trip to the UK. Then, he heads to Helsinki on Monday (7/16) to cover the summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin…..CNN announces that 
Brianna Keilar will begin anchoring the 1:00 pm ET hour, effective this fall. She’ll take over for Wolf Blitzer, who will continue to host “The Situation Room” from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET. TVNewser reports that a name for the program has not been announced but that Keilar will begin the program after returning from maternity leave. She has been the primary fill-in anchor for “The Situation Room,” was the lead reporter covering 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and the Democratic field in 2016, and previously served as CNN’s senior White House correspondent covering the Obama administration…..As part of SiriusXM’s coverage of Major League Baseball’s 2018 All-Star Week (in addition to play-by-play of the All-Star Game), Chris “Mad Dog” Russo will sit down with MLB commissioner Robert D.
Manfred Jr. before a live audience at the Library of Congress for a Town Hall broadcast. It will be taped and air on Monday (7/16) at 1:00 pm ET on the MLB Channel…..Cumulus Media‘s news/talk KLIF-AM, Dallas adds Radio America‘s “The Dana Show” with host Dana Loesch to the programming schedule.
TALKERS Continues Posting Videos Today of the Recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! Convention – Today’s Post: Panel Discussion, “Attracting Younger Demos to Talk Radio.” Today (7/12), TALKERS magazine continues posting individual events from the recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! convention held in New York City on June 8. Each business day, another session or activity will be posted in the order that they originally took place. Today’s 12th installment is the panel discussion titled “Attracting Younger Demos to Talk Radio.” It is moderated by Mike “Bax” Baxendale, morning co-host, WAQY-FM (Rock 102), Springfield, MA; introduced by WPHT, Philadelphia host Rich Zeoli; and featuring panelists Armstrong & Getty Show co-hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty; WRKO, Boston PD, Michael Czarnecki; WRHU-FM/WRHU.org, Hofstra University OM, John T. Mullen; WABC, New York host Sid Rosenberg; and Compass MediaNetworks/Newsmax host, Todd Schnitt; Already posted: a video of the donation given by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley to the Broadcasters Foundation of America and accepted by its president Jim Thompson; convention luncheon greetings by WNYM “970 AM The Answer,” New York morning host Joe Piscopo with an introduction by Salem SVP Phil Boyce along with the posthumous presentation of the “Humanitarian of the Year” award to the late Texas and Ohio radio talk show host Matt Patrick by Michael Harrison with an acceptance by his widow and show producer, Paula Ryan; the panel discussion titled “Adding the Video Component to Talk Radio” moderated by Livestream head of news, Clayton Rose and featuring panelists Krantz Media Group CEO, Gary Krantz and KTRS, St Louis host, McGraw Milhaven; the panel discussion titled “Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2018” moderated by TALKERS VP/executive editor, Kevin Casey; introduced by Crossover Media Group managing member, Ron Hartenbaum; and featuring panelists Asa RX host, Asa; Bold Gold Media Group CEO, Vince Benedetto; Howie Carr Radio Network president, Kathy Carr; Westwood One president, Suzanne Grimes; WBAL, Baltimore president/GM, Cary Pahigian; and KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz owner, Michael Zwerling; the special presentation by Amplifi Media CEO, Steven Goldstein titled “Radio Broadcasters and Smart Speakers with an introduction by GCN personality, Dr. Daliah Wachs ; a special presentation by PodcastOne chairman and CEO, Norm Pattiz titled “Radio Broadcasters and Podcasting” with an introduction by Voice of America and National Public Radio anchor/reporter, Lori Lundin; a special presentation by WFAN personality, Mike Francesa titled “Sports Talk’s Role in Media and Popular Culture” with an introduction by author and former radio producer, Bernadette Duncan; Salem SVP, Phil Boyce’s address titled “What Has Donald Trump Done to Talk Radio?”; the fireside chat between TALKERS publisher, Michael Harrison and Beasley Media Group CEO, Caroline Beasley including Harrison’s presentation of the 2018 “Woman of the Year” award to Beasley; Harrison’s fireside chat with FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel mega-star, Brian Kilmeade with an introduction by Westwood One syndicated host, Walter Sterling and special remarks by Sean Hannity; opening remarks by the convention’s co-emcees, TalkersRadio GM, David Bernstein and Good Day Networks/DJV Show CEO/host, Doug Stephan; KGO, San Francisco host, Ethan Bearman delivering the event’s welcoming remarks and Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host, Brad Shepard introduction of Bearman; and the presentation of the Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech (“Freedom of Speech Award”) by TALKERS managing editor, Mike Kinosian to SiriusXM Satellite Radio host, book publisher, Hunter College professor, and former New York Daily News/Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, Karen Hunter. To view the page, please click here.
Trump at NATO Meeting, Trump-Russia Investigation/Trump-Putin Meeting, Illegal Immigration-Asylum Policies, Kavanaugh Confirmation Process, Page/Strzok Testimony, Papa John’s Founder Resigns, Stormy Daniels Arrest, World Cup, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/11). Reaction to President Trump’s demanding NATO member nations pay their dues; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and Trump’s impending meeting with Vladimir Putin; the Trump administration’s illegal immigration and asylum policies; the confirmation process for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh; former FBI attorney Lisa Page’s refusal to testify before a congressional committee and former lover Peter Strzok’s intent to appear before the same panel; Papa John’s founder John Schnatter resigns from chairman of board position after use of “n-word”; Stormy Daniels is arrested in Ohio after strip club appearance; soccer’s World Cup tournament; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Highway Radio Network Establishes Remote Studio at Pawn Plaza in Las Vegas. This deal between Highway Radio Network and Heftel Broadcast Company brings about the launch of a new remote satellite broadcast studio at Pawn Plaza (725 S. Las 
Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas) owned by Gold & Silver Pawn Shop owner Rick Harrison, star of History’s “Pawn Stars.” Highway Radio Network co-founder and COO Sean O’Neill states, “We are very excited to be part of this endeavor. The Pawn Plaza attracts thousands of customers thanks to the huge success of ‘Pawn Stars.’ To be able to launch a broadcast studio at a must-see Las Vegas destination for tourists is a perfect scenario for us.” Rick Harrison adds, “Having Highway Radio’s live studio is an awesome addition to Pawn Plaza and will mean our fans will not only get a chance to see our ‘Pawn Stars’ team and experts do interviews, but also many other famous Las Vegas celebrities.”
Radio Networks Deal with Skyview and ABC Radio to Expand 24/7 Music Format Distribution and Sales. This deal between the three players is designed to “change the paradigm of the 24/7 music format business for small and medium market stations by expanding distribution and driving network sales revenue and power additional content.” Local Radio Networks, Skyview Networks, and ABC Radio will 
work together to expand distribution for LRN’s 24/7 music formats, heighten network sales and create new content when the agreement becomes effective on January 1, 2019. LRN CEO Steve Swick says, “This is really an exciting time for Local Radio Networks. Launching this relationship with ABC Radio and Skyview Networks allows us to expand our 24/7 programming footprint and distribute our music formats with dual delivery platforms of cloud-based and now satellite delivery via XDS smart receivers to potentially thousands of stations, effortlessly and efficiently. Steve Jones and ABC Radio bring some very special content opportunities to the table, as well. With the addition of Skyview Networks’ distribution and network sales expertise, we’re able to elevate our business across radio dials. This transition reflects our commitment to deliver superior 24/7 music programming to small and medium market stations every day, while increasing the power and flexibility affiliates have locally.”
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Tulsa, iHeartMedia brings Jadd Naamani in from the company’s CHR WERZ, Portsmouth, New Hampshire to program CHR KTBT “92.1 The Beat.” Naamani takes over for Trevor Morini, who’s moved to the company’s CHR KHFI, Austin…..Radio management pro Jack Taddeo announces he’s exiting NGR Media Waterloo-Cedar Falls and Cedar Rapids clusters for a new opportunity yet-to-be-announced…..Adams Radio Group is jumping from Eastlan Ratings to Nielsen Audio in its Las Cruces, New Mexico and Tallahassee, Florida markets. Adams entered into a new, five-year agreement with Nielsen for its Fort Wayne, Indiana and Salisbury-Ocean City, Maryland markets and added Las Cruces and Tallahassee to the deal…..Cumulus Media begins celebrating the 50th anniversary of rock KQRS-FM, Minneapolis-St. Paul, one of the nation’s original progressive/AOR radio stations. In recognition of the anniversary, the station has events scheduled through year-end. KQRS program director and Cumulus Media VP of classic rock Scott Jameson says, “We’re celebrating 50 incredible years of loyal listeners by thanking them with exciting events and premium experiences, and by broadcasting classic KQ moments throughout the year. In tandem with KQ’s 50 years on-air in the Twin Cities, we’re partnering with Bob Seger and Punch Andrews to celebrate “50 Years of Bob Seger,” highlighting his amazing career that also began in 1968. This terrific opportunity to recognize Bob’s contribution to Rock radio will be shared across other Cumulus classic rock stations nationwide and through our national network, Westwood One.”…..Radio sales pro Dave Cooper has been named general sales manager for Curtis Media’s country WQDR, Raleigh. He was most recently with Entercom’s KYKY and KEZK in St. Louis.
Round Two of June PPM Data Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s June 2018 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets, including: Washington, Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s June 2018 survey period covered May 24 – June 20. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Managing editor Mike Kinosian (Kinosian@TALKERS.com) provides his “Takeaways” from all of these PPM markets below.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
Washington, DC
Spoken-Word Formats – Off two-tenths (9.7 – 9.5, 6+), Hubbard all-news WTOP nonetheless is #1 in the Nation’s Capital for the sixth time in a row. It rebounded from April’s -.8 with a +.1 in May (10.4 – 9.6 – 9.7, 6+). Following four consecutive months at
#1, WTOP shifted to second-place in “Holiday” 2017. With a +1.3 in January (9.3 – 10.6, 6+), however, it reclaimed the top spot with its best 6+-stat since March 2011’s 10.6. Moreover, that +1.3 halted three successive declines that produced an overall -.5 (9.8 – 9.6 – 9.4 – 9.3, 6+). Prior to November, WTOP was +1.6 in three straight upticks (8.2 – 8.9 – 9.4 – 9.8, 6+). This is the sixth successive sweep that American University-owned news/talk WAMU (flat at 8.3, 6+) is anchored in the runner-up slot; “The Mind Is Our Medium” was -1.1 in March. A collective -2.0 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (9.6 – 8.9 – 7.6, 6+), WAMU gained back 85% of that loss in January with a +1.7. It exited the 
top spot in September, after spending eight straight months there. February 2017’s 11.5 matches the highest 6+-share in its PPM-history first reached in December 2016. Three upticks in succession by Entercom sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” yield a +1.3 (2.4 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.7, 6+), as the Washington Nationals flagship moves from #13 to #11. Before notching a +.6 in January, “The Fan” was without an increase in four straight survey periods for a roughly 50% decline (-1.7) of its 6+ AQH share (3.5 – 3.5 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.8, 6+). Conversely,
Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL is a combined -1.5 via three consecutive downward moves (5.0 – 4.5 – 3.9 – 3.5, 6+) and exits the top ten (#9 to #13). Back in March, WMAL reached the five-share level (6+) for the first time in the PPM-era (5.0). It was without an increase in November, December, and “Holiday” 2017 for an overall -1.0 (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+) before dialing up a +1.1 in January. Since surfacing in May 2017, Entercom business news WDCH is trending .3 – .4 – .3 – .4 – .5 – .4 – .4 – .3 – .4 – .3 – .5 – .4 – .5 – .4 – .3 (flat at #23, 6+).
Washington, DC Music Formats – Just as WTOP and WAMU dominate this market’s spoken-word conversation month after month, D.C. urban AC rivals WMMJ “Majic” and WHUR generally do the same in the music-intensive genre. Such is the case again in June, as after four straight reports without an increase for an overall -1.4 (7.1 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+), Howard University’s WHUR erases nearly half the deficit with a +.6 to 6.3 – its best 6+-showing since January’s 7.1. In April, Radio One-owned “Majic” pulled ahead of WHUR for the first time since November 2015, which was when the two rivals were tied at 4.7 (6+). In each sweep since then, WHUR had been on top until WMMJ picked up two-tenths to 5.8, while WHUR faltered by four-tenths to 5.7. The momentum continues for “Majic,” which is without a loss for the fifth straight monthly report for a collective +1.5 (5.6 – 5.6 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 6.6 – 7.1, 6+) and registers the highest 6+-stat (7.1) in its PPM history. The two foes carry on at #3 (WMMJ) and #4 (WHUR). While unchanged at #7, Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX “Mix 107.3,” an overall +1.7 in six consecutive up or flat trends (2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 4.4, 6+), falters in June by four-tenths to 4.0 (6+). Meanwhile, its format rival – Entercom’s WIAD “94.7 Fresh FM” – is trending 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.3 – 3.5 (6+) and climbs from #14 to #13. Steady the past five survey periods (3.9 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WIHT “Hot 99.5 – D.C.’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#11 to #10). Despite not showing an increase in each of the last five surveys, Radio One urban contemporary WKYS is down a modest two-tenths (3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+) and remains at #12. Following a May debut to the top twenty (at #20), Hubbard regional Mexican WBQH “La Mera Mera 1050,” whose only trending thus far is .3 – .3 – .3 – .6 – .4 (6+), drops to #21.
Boston
Spoken-Word Formats – A June gain of one-tenth (5.3 – 5.4, 6+) enables iHeartMedia-owned news-talk hybrid WBZ-AM to climb from sixth to fifth. After three straight improvements for a cumulative +1.5 (4.9 – 5.2 – 5.4 – 6.4, 6+), “News 
Radio 1030” was -.9 in April; 6.4 in March is its best 6+-stat since January 2017’s 6.6. News/talk sibling WRKO “AM 680 – The Voice of Boston” posts its third downward move in a row for a collective setback of seven-
tenths (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.4 – 2.3, #14 to #15, 6+). Separated by 1.7 (6+) in May, Beantown’s two FM sports talkers are now within two-tenths of each other as Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” erodes by -1.4 (5.7 – 4.3, fifth to eighth, 6+), while Entercom’s WEEI-FM picks up one-tenth (4.0 – 4.1, steady at #9, 6+). WBZ-FM was -1.5 in February. Meanwhile, Boston Red Sox flagship WEEI-FM was +1.0 in April, rebounding from a cumulative -2.0 in February and March
(5.4 – 4.1 – 3.4, 6+). WEEI-FM was +1.4 in January, halting three decreases in a row that produced an overall -1.9 (5.9 – 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+). Following eight straight sweeps without an increase (.2 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+), co-owned/similarly-formatted WEEI-AM disappears from print in June. Boston University news/talk WBUR surrenders half of May’s +.6 (6.2 – 5.9, -.3, 6+) segueing from third to fourth, while WGBH Educational Foundation’s similarly-programmed WGBH falters by six-tenths in consecutive sweeps (4.7 – 4.1 – 3.5, 6+) and departs the top ten (#8 to #11). WBUR was a collective -1.2 in December and “Holiday” 2017; +.7 in January; and +1.0 in March. WGBH was off two-tenths in both February and March and (as was the case with WBUR) improved by seven-tenths in January.
Boston Music Formats – Following three straight down or flat trends that accounted for a collective loss of one full-share (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.2 – 4.0, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WKLB “102.5 Boston’s Hottest Country” recaptures 70% of that loss with a +.7 to 4.7 (ninth to seventh, 6+). Its format rival, iHeartMedia’s WBWL “101.7 The Bull – Boston’s #1 for New Hit Country,” logs a month-to-month fluctuation of one-tenth for the fourth sweep in a row, (2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.1, #16 to #17, 6+). Improving by six-tenths each are Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT “Hot 96.9” (3.4 – 4.0, 6+), which enters the top ten (#12 to #10), and iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WJMN “JAM’N 94.5” (2.3 – 2.9, #15 to #13, 6+). This (4.0) is the highest 6+-share for “Hot” since January 2017’s 4.4; WJMN is within 2.2 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 12th successive sweep. Flat at 7.3 (6+), mainstream CHR sibling WXKS-FM is on top for the sixth straight ratings period. “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” rebounded from a -.8 in “Holiday” 2017 with a +.9 in January (6.4 – 7.3, 6+) and was off by one-half share in April. It exited the top spot in December, after three straight months there. In five consecutive increases prior to the August 2017 report, WXKS-FM was a cumulative +1.9 (5.6 – 5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9 – 7.5, 6+). The “Holiday” 2017 – June 2018 topline trending for its format challenger, Entercom’s WODS “103.3 Amp Radio,” is 2.6 – 2.2 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.3 (#17 to #15, 6+). A combined +.8 in April and May (2.2 – 2.6 – 3.0, 6+), iHeartMedia urban AC WKAF “97.7 Boston’s #1 For R&B” relinquishes one-half share to 2.5 (#13 to #14, 6+). After being up nine-tenths in four successive positive spikes (5.4 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.2 – 6.3, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” slips by two-tenths to 6.1 (second to third, 6+).
Miami
English-Language, Spoken-Word Formats – Tied at #20 are iHeartMedia news/talk WIOD “News Radio 620 – Miami’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” (1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #21 to #20, 6+) and Dade County School Board news/talk WLRN (2.1 – 2.0, flat at #20, 6+). A one-half share loss in May by WIOD pulled the plug on seven straight positive or flat trends that
netted an overall nine-tenths (1.5 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.1 – 2.4 – 2.4, 6+). In advance of a +.5 in January, WLRN was a collective -.7 in three consecutive sweeps without an increase (2.6 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 1.9, 6+). Locked together as well (as they were in May) are Entercom sports talk siblings WAXY “Sports Talk 790 The Ticket” (.9 – .8, flat at #25, 6+) and WQAM “Sports Radio 560” (.9 – .8, -.1, also flat at #25, 6+). June’s .8 (6+) by “the Ticket” halts five consecutive .9 postings (6+); a May gain of two-tenths by WQAM applies the brakes to five sweeps in succession without an increase for a collective -.8 (1.5 – 1.2 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .7, 6+).
Miami Music Formats – Without an increase the past nine reports for a collective -1.4 (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 3.1, 6+), Cox Media Group’s WFLC makes up nearly half the deficit with a +.6 to 3.7 (#14 to #11, 6+). By doing so, “Hits 97.3” overtakes its rival, iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station,” which is off one-tenth (3.2 – 3.1, unchanged at #13, 6+). Stuck on 4.0 (6+) in January and February, “Y-100” eroded by eight-tenths in March. Prior to a setback of four-tenths in September, “Y-100” was a collective +.6 in three consecutive up or flat monthlies (3.7 – 3.7 – 4.1 – 4.3, 6+). These two CHRs were separated by one-tenth in April and May. Answering May’s -1.1 with a one-half share June increase (3.7 – 4.2, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WXDJ continues at #9. Immediately before May’s -1.1, “106.7 El Zol” was an overall +1.3 in four straight sweeps without a loss (3.5 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+). Previous to the March sweep, “El Zol” last reached the four-share level (6+) in February 2017 (4.1). The game of musical chairs atop the leader board between two Cox Media Group siblings continues. Urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” held the lead in February (7.3, 6+) and March (6.8, 6+); co-owned adult contemporary WFEZ “Easy 93.1” took over in April (7.3, 6+); “Hot” returned in May (7.5, 6+); and now “Easy” is June’s pacesetter (7.3 – 7.5, +.2, 6+) with “Hot” segueing to second (7.5 – 7.1, -.4, 6+). A February +1.1 by “Hot” suspended four decreases in a row that accounted for a -1.6 (7.8 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.5 – 6.2, 6+). WHQT spent seven consecutive months at #1 before being ousted in December. Prior to April, “Easy” had been within 6.2 – 6.8 range (6+) in each of the previous 12 sweeps. The nine-tenths advantage it had in May over fellow AC – Entercom’s WLYF – nearly doubles as “101.5 Lite FM” falters by six-tenths (6.4 – 5.8, third to fourth, 6+). Up (slightly) or flat the past three survey periods for an overall +.4 (2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9, 6+), co-owned WSFS “104.3 The Shark – South Florida’s Alternative” forfeits seven-tenths to 2.2 (#15 to #19, 6+).
Detroit
Spoken-Word Formats – Finishing at #4 and #5, respectively, are Entercom cluster-mates WWJ “News Radio 950” (flat at 5.8, third to fourth, 6+) and sports talk WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (5.3 – 5.6, +.3, steady at #5, 6+). Following four 
up or flat trends in succession for a collective +1.0, WWJ was -.8 in April. “News Radio 950” was within 5.2 – 5.9 territory (6+) between June 2017 and “Holiday” 2017. A combined -.6 in February and March, “97.1 The Ticket” was up nine-tenths in April. Prior to January’s +1.0, the 
Detroit Tigers flagship was a collective -2.2 as a result of four losses in a row. A setback of one-half share (4.2 – 3.7, 6+) knocks Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760” out of the top ten (#10 to #11). Prior to the January sweep, WJR was -.9 in three straight declines (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 3.5, 6+). While it remains at #19, Michigan Public Media news/talk WUOM is down or flat for the sixth straight survey period but has lost just two-tenths in that timeframe (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.7, 6+). Meanwhile, Wayne State University news/talk WDET is down or flat for the third successive time for a -.2 (.9 – .9 – .7 -.7, 6+) and remains at #22.
Detroit Music Formats – Three (modest) or flat moves in succession by Entercom’s WYCD accounted for a cumulative loss of one-half share (5.6 – 5.4 – 5.1 – 5.1, 6+), but “99.5 Detroit’s Best Country” erases all of it in June (5.6, +.5, seventh to fifth, 6+). Similarly-formatted/Cumulus Media-owned WDRQ “93.1 Nash FM” slips by two-tenths to 2.8 (flat at #16, 6+), thus suspending five consecutive up or flat moves that netted nine-tenths (2.1 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). Halted at five straight as well is the progressive streak fashioned by Beasley Media Group’s WCSX which generated a +2.5 (5.4 – 5.9 – 6.3 – 6.7 – 7.6 – 7.9, 6+) but “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” (7.7, -.2, 6+) repeats at #1. After four straight months at #1, Entercom classic hits-oldies WOMC fell to #2 in May. That was when it lost eight-tenths, ending four consecutive up or flat sweeps that netted an overall +1.8 (6.1 – 6.7 – 7.2 – 7.2 – 7.9, 6+). Now in June, “Detroit’s Greatest Hits” declines by another six-tenths (7.1 – 6.5, unchanged at #2, 6+). Not only does Beasley Media Group’s WRIF inch up from fourth to third with its fourth consecutive positive spike for a combined +1.1 (4.4 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 5.5 – 5.9, 6+), “Everything That Rocks” logs its strongest 6+-stat (5.9) since January 2017 (5.9, as well). In the market’s CHR contest, iHeartMedia’s WKQI “Channel 95.5 – Detroit’s #1 Hit Music Station” is without an increase for the fifth successive sweep for an overall -.7 (4.8 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.1, 6+) but re-enters the top ten (#11 to #10). At the same time, Entercom’s similarly-programmed WDZH “98.7 Amp Radio” applies the brakes to three straight setbacks of one-tenth each (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.4, 6+) with a +.3 to 2.7 (#18 to #17, 6+).
Seattle
Spoken-Word Formats – The ten most recent (6+) trends for KIRO-FM are 5.7 – 6.0 – 5.7 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 5.8 and while the Bonneville news/talker is even at 5.8 (6+), it progresses from fourth to second. On the heels of May’s -.5, Northwest Public Radio news/talker KUOW regresses by an additional six-tenths in June (6.0 – 5.4, 6+),
shifting from second to fifth. It took over the runner-up slot in May after a one-month stay at #1. On top for four straight months before dropping to second in December, KUOW was +1.5 in January (6.4 – 7.9, 6+) as it returned to #1. When it lost six-tenths in “Holiday” 2017, KUOW 
ended five consecutive up or flat trends that netted a +1.3 (5.7 – 6.2 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.5 – 7.0, 6+). As a result of four positive spikes in succession (2.3 – 2.9 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), co-owned sports talk KIRO-AM is a combined +1.9 as “ESPN 710” (eighth to ninth) nearly doubles its 6+ AQH share. Prior to May, the Seattle Mariners flagship last reached the four-share level (6+) in October 2015 (4.3). Returning two-tenths of May’s +.3 (2.6 – 2.4, 6+), Sinclair Broadcast Group’s all-news KOMO slips from #19 to #20.
This is the third report in a row that Bonneville’s KTTH “Conservative Talk Radio” has recorded a 2.0 (#22 to #21, 6+). As a result of four losses in a row, KTTH was -.8 (2.6 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 1.9 – 1.8, October 2017 – January 2018, 6+). The (6+) topline February 2018 – June 2018 trending for Sinclair’s KVI “Talk Radio 570” is 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 (flat at #24, 6+); iHeartMedia-owned KJR-AM “Seattle’s Sports Radio 950” repeats June’s .6 and stays at #27 (6+).
Seattle Music Formats – Having faltered by seven-tenths in May to 3.0 – its lowest 6+-share since January 2017’s 3.0 – public KNKX “Your Connection to Jazz and Blues” answers in June with a +.6 to 3.6, jumping from #17 to #12 (6+). Prior to May, KNKX was consistently within 3.6 – 3.9 territory in each of the previous nine sweeps (3.8 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+). There is a tie at #14 between the market’s two country FMs – Hubbard’s KNUC “98.9 The Bull” (formerly KVRQ) and Entercom’s KKWF “100.7 The Wolf” (3.6 – 3.4, -.2, #12 to #14, 6+). In six straight survey periods without a loss, “The Bull” has more than tripled (+2.4) its 6+-stat (1.0 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.6 – 2.0 – 2.8 – 3.4, #18 to #14, 6+) and reaches the three-share level (3.4) for the first time since September 2017’s 3.1. An increase of two-tenths (5.9 – 6.1, 6+) is enough to lift its CHR sibling KQMV “MOViN 92.5” from third to first. Ousted from the top spot after just one month and drifting to fifth is Entercom’s KISW “99.9 The Rock of Seattle” (5.4, -.8, 6+), which had notched an increase six times in the previous seven sweeps for an overall +2.5 (3.7 – 3.9 – 4.6 – 5.5 – 5.6 – 5.5 – 5.8 – 6.2, 6+). Co-owned rhythmic hot AC KHTP “Hot 103.7 – 100% Throwbacks” (2.8, #13 to #17, 6+) returns in its entirety the six-tenths it gained in three straight (modest) increases (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.4, 6+). Still in that Hubbard cluster, adult contemporary KRWM adds three-tenths to 5.0 (6+) and is anchored at #7. In advance of June’s improvement, “Warm 106.9” was -7.1 (or down roughly 60%) in five successive down or flat sweeps (11.8 – 5.5 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). Its 11.8 in “Holiday” 2017 was the station’s strongest 6+-stat since 13.4 in “Holiday” 2015. Owing to a +.4 in November, “Warm” – which was #1 in December and “Holiday” 2017 – halted three straight down or flat trends that generated a combined -1.2 (6.1 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 4.9, 6+). Format challenger, Entercom’s KSWD, is an overall -.8 in three straight down or flat trends (4.1 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3, #14 to #16, 6+); “The Sound” posted a one-half share gain in March (3.6 – 4.1, 6+). Without an improvement for the fifth time in a row for a cumulative -1.3 (4.1 – 4.1 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.1 – 2.8, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KBKS “106.1 Kiss FM – Seattle’s New Hit Music” dips from #16 to #17. At the same time, Sinclair Broadcast Group’s similarly-programmed KPLZ “Star” picks up three-tenths in back-to-back sweeps (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.3, ninth to eighth, 6+). Crista Media religious teaching KCIS – which notched a .5 (6+) in May – disappears from print in June.
Phoenix
Spoken-Word Formats – A gain of two-tenths (2.5 – 2.7, 6+) enables iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” to advance from #17 to #14. When KFYI lost one-tenth in March,
it ended at three its successive string of upticks that netted nine-tenths (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.1 – 2.4, 6+). Remaining at #11, KTAR-FM is a combined -.5 in May and June, after April’s +.3 (3.6 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+). The Bonneville news/talker was +.8 in January (3.2 – 4.0, 6+) but an overall -.7 in February and March (4.0 – 3.5 – 3.3, 6+). Sports talk 
sibling KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona Sports,” a collective +1.1 in three straight positive spikes (1.5 – 1.6 – 2.3 – 2.6, 6+), slips by one-tenth to 2.5 (6+) yet advances from #16 to #15. Prior to the just-concluded positive streak, the Arizona Diamondbacks flagship registered four consecutive down or flat trends in which it lost 50% of its 6+ AQH share (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.1 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+). KMVP-FM faltered by one-half share in August 2017 and was a combined +1.5 in September and October (1.5 – 2.4 – 3.0, 6+). In three consecutive negative moves, Maricopa County Community College news/talk KJZZ is a combined -1.5 (3.9 – 3.6 – 2.7 – 2.4, #14 to #17, 6+).
Phoenix Music Formats – Owing to three straight upticks, Entercom rhythmic CHR KALV “Live 101.5” is a combined +1.3 (3.0 – 3.5 – 4.0 – 4.3, ninth to eighth 6+). By posting a +.8 to 5.3 (seventh to fourth, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KMXP “Mix 96.9” regains 80% of the collective one full-share it lost in April and May (5.5 – 4.7 – 4.5, 6+). Co-owned adult hits KYOT “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” logs a June improvement of eight-tenths as well (3.5 – 4.3, 6+) bumping up from tenth to ninth. As a result of its +.7, Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVK “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” doubles its 6+ AQH share (.7 – 1.4, #26, 6+). Anchored in the runner-up slot for the eighth consecutive sweep, Hubbard’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” is without a loss for the sixth time in succession for a +1.1 (5.5 – 5.8 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.6, 6+). On top for the eighth time in a row, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ follows May’s mammoth +1.7 with a -.3 (9.0 – 8.7, 6+). A combined -9.8 in three straight declines (16.4 – 7.3 – 7.1 – 6.6, 6+), KESZ was up seven-tenths in April; 16.4 in “Holiday” 2017 was its strongest 6+-showing since 16.5 in “Holiday” 2016. KESZ was an overall +10.2 in December and “Holiday” 2017. Via five straight improvements, mainstream CHR sibling KZZP precisely doubled (+3.0) its 6+-share (3.0 – 4.0 – 4.8 – 4.9 – 5.4 – 6.0, 6+), but “104.7 Kiss FM – The #1 Hit Music Station in Phoenix” relinquishes seven-tenths to 5.3 (third to fourth, 6+). Faltering by seven-tenths as well is Farmworker Educational Radio regional Mexican KNAI “101.9 Campesina,” which was -.8 in May (4.0 – 3.2 – 2.5, #12 to #15, 6+).
Minneapolis
Spoken-Word Formats – Despite being flat at 2.7 (6+), Hubbard news/talk KTMY “My Talk 107.1” progresses from #16 to #15. Its loss of three-tenths in March stopped four straight up or flat moves that generated a +1.2 (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.3 – 2.7 – 3.3, 6+). This marks the third negative move in a row for Minnesota Public Radio news/talk KNOW for a collective -1.5
(5.9 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.4, eighth to ninth, 6+). Its recent fluctuations include -.7 (February); +.7 (March); -.5 (April) and +.7 (May). Until it reached 5.9 (6+) in January, KNOW’s September 2017 – “Holiday” 2017 topline 6+ trending was 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.2. Finishing at #11 and #12, respectively, are iHeartMedia-owned sports 
talk KFXN “Sports Radio 100.3 K-Fan” and Entercom-owned WCCO “News Radio 830”; both were tied for eighth-place in May. A collective -1.8 in three decreases in a row (5.8 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 4.0, 6+), “K-Fan” was -1.5 in February. Frozen on 4.4 (6+) in December 2017 and “Holiday” 2017 and then on 5.0 (6+) in January 2018 and February, Minnesota Twins flagship WCCO was +.8 (April); -.8 (May); and -.8 again in June (4.7 – 5.5 – 4.7 – 3.9, 6+). Following five successive sweeps without a loss for an overall +1.4 (2.5 – 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.8 – 3.9, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” sputters by six-tenths to 3.3 (#12 to #14, 6+). Trending 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – .8 (6+), Hubbard sports talk KSTP-AM “ESPN 1500” moves from #21 to #22.
Minneapolis Music Formats – A gain of eight-tenths to 4.9 (6+) by University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM more than wipes out an overall loss of six-tenths that resulted in three straight down or flat moves (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.1, 6+) as “98.8 Twin Cities Christian Radio” returns to the top ten (#11 to #8). This (4.9) is its best 6+-showing since November 2017’s 5.3. In four consecutive sweeps without a loss, American Public Media Group classical KSJN is up a collective nine-tenths (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.7, #17 to #15, 6+). Within 3.4 – 3.9 range (6+) between January and May (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom’s KMNB notches a one-half share improvement to 4.2, its strongest 6+-stat since September 2017’s 4.4, as “BUZ’N @ 102.9” cracks the top ten (#13 to #10, 6+). Meanwhile, flat at #5, iHeartMedia-owned KEEY “K-102 Minnesota’s Country Station” is +2.3 via six successive sweeps without a loss (3.4 – 4.5 – 5.2 – 5.3 – 5.4 – 5.7 – 5.7, 6+). January’s +1.1 halted six straight down or flat trends that accounted for a combined -2.9 (6.3 – 6.2 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.0 – 4.7 – 4.6 – 3.4, 6+). Off a cumulative eight-tenths in May and June (8.6 – 7.9 – 7.8, 6+), Hubbard hot AC KSTP-FM “KS-95” is nonetheless #1 for the sixth sweep in a row. Its -.7 in May pulled the plug on four successive progressive moves that netted a +2.8 (5.8 – 7.6 – 8.2 – 8.3 – 8.6, 6+). Following three straight up or flat trends that accounted for a one-half share increase (6.6 – 6.6 – 6.9 – 7.1, 6+), “KS-95” was a combined -1.3 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (7.1 – 6.5 – 5.8, 6+). Progressing from #14 to #13, iHeartMedia’s similarly-programmed KTCZ “The Cities” is up a collective six-tenths in three consecutive (modest) upticks (3.2 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+). Co-owned KQQL “Kool 108 – Minnesota’s Greatest Hits” falters by four-tenths to 7.3 (6+), snapping three straight improvements for a combined +1.4 (6.3 – 6.5 – 6.7 – 7.7, second to third, 6+); 7.7 in May is the station’s best 6+-stat since 14.2 in “Holiday” 2017.
San Diego
Spoken-Word Formats – Owing to a +.1 to 1.6 (flat at #22, 6+), Tegna news/talk KFMB-AM “AM 760 Talk & Breaking News” halts three straight negative moves that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (2.2 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+). Earlier, it netted one half-share in 
three straight up or flat trends (1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.2, 6+). It is another round of musical chairs for San Diego State University-owned news/talk KPBS, which shifted from first to second in April; returned to #1 in May; and drops from first to third in June (6.4 – 5.5, -.9, 6+). December’s four-tenths increase curtailed three straight down or flat monthlies that accounted for an overall -.6 (6.2 – 6.2 – 6.0 – 5.6, 6+). November’s +.5 (to 5.3, 6+) ended four straight decreases that yielded a cumulative -1.4 (6.2 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.2 – 4.8, 6+). KPBS was on top four times in 2017: February, August, September, and December. It is four-tenths ahead of iHeartMedia news/talk
KOGO “News Radio 600” (5.3 – 5.1, -.2, third to fourth, 6+), which more than compensated with April’s -.4 by adding six-tenths in May. KOGO was -3.0 in three successive major declines (7.2 – 6.6 – 5.4 – 4.2, 6+). It was +.8 in January; -.7 in February; +.8 in March; and +.6 in May. When KOGO lost six-tenths in November, its successive string of up or flat monthlies that generated a collective +1.9 was snapped at four (5.3 – 5.5 – 5.9 – 5.9 – 7.2, 6+); October 2017’s 7.2 is KOGO’s highest 6+-share in its PPM-history. The market’s three main sports talk competitors are bunched together. Specifically, Interamericana de Radio’s XPRS-AM “The Mighty 1090” is up one-tenth (1.0 – 1.1, #24 to #23, 6+); Entercom-owned/San Diego Padres flagship KWFN “97.3 The Fan” improves by three-tenths (.7 – 1.0, #27 to #25, 6+); and iHeartMedia’s KLSD “Fox Sports 1360 San Diego’s Sports Station” drops one-tenth (1.0 – .9, #24 to #26, 6+).
San Diego Music Formats – The rollercoaster ride continues for Entercom classic hits-oldies KXSN “Sunny 98.1 – San Diego’s Greatest Hits,” which registered a -1.6 in March, all but obliterating its +1.9 through five straight gains (4.8 – 5.3 – 5.8 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.7, 6+). “Sunny” rebounded in April with a +.5; was -.7 in May; and now answers with a +.8 in June (4.9 – 5.7, 6+), jumping from sixth to second. Co-owned KBZT “Alt 94.9 San Diego’s Alternative” breaks out a +.8 as well (2.6 – 3.4, #16 to #12, 6+). Posting gains of one-half share each are Local Media San Diego-operated Comunicación XERSA XHRM “Magic 92.5” (4.5 – 5.0, seventh to fifth, 6+) and iHeartMedia urban contemporary KSSX “JAM’N 95.7,” which completely wipes away May’s -.5 (3.1 – 2.6 – 3.1, #16 to #15, 6+). After three upticks in a row that produced a +1.1 (3.8 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.9, 6+), “Magic 92.5” sputtered by four-tenths in May. A gain of two-tenths (6.1 – 6.3, 6+) is enough to push Entercom-owned KSON “103.7 San Diego’s #1 New Country” from second to first. Its -.1 in April ended three straight positive trends that netted a cumulative +2.5 (3.6 – 4.7 – 5.5 – 6.1, 6+). On top in April as well, KSON was -1.1 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (4.6 – 3.7 – 3.6, 6+). Faltering by six-tenths are Local Media San Diego-operated CHR XHTZ “Z-90.3 Today’s Hit Music” (4.5 – 3.9, seventh to ninth, 6+) and Imagen Spanish contemporary XLTN “104.5 Radio Latina” (4.0 – 3.4, #11 to #12, 6+).
Denver
Spoken-Word Formats – It’s a brief one-month stay at #1 for Colorado Public Radio news/talk KCFR, which tumbles to fifth (6.0 – 5.3, -.7, 6+). In addition to being on top in May, KCFR was #1 in January and March, as well. When it lost six-tenths in February, the station’s consecutive string of improvements that netted a cumulative +1.5 (4.5 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 6.0,
6+) ended at three. It is overtaken by iHeartMedia news/talk KOA which regains half the eight-tenths it lost in May (5.0 – 5.4, +.4, fifth to fourth, 6+); KOA exited the top spot in May after a one-month run. Following January’s one-half share loss, the flagship of the Colorado Rockies picked up one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+) and posted a +1.4 in April to zoom from ninth to first. Prior to April, “Colorado’s News, Traffic, & Weather Station” last reached the five-share level (6+) in October 
(5.2). January’s 4.2 was its lowest 6+-share since 3.5 in March 2017. Down or flat the past four sweeps for an overall setback of four-tenths (2.3 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.0 -1.9, 6+), news/talk cluster-mate KHOW “Talk Radio 630” picks up three-tenths to 2.2 (#20 to #19, 6+). Off by four-tenths in April but then up two-tenths in May, Bonneville-owned KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” regresses by one-half share in June (3.5 – 3.0, #13 to #15, 6+). KKFN was +1.0 in March; its +.4 in January curtailed three straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a cumulative -1.3 (4.5 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.2, 6+). Having recorded a .7 (6+) in each of the last three sweeps, Community Radio for Northern California news/talk KUNC logs a three-tenths boost to 1.0 (#27 to #26, 6+).
Denver Music Formats – Classic rock is the huge market headline this month as Entercom’s KQMT “99.5 The Mountain – A Mountain of Classics” hangs out a +1.2 (4.9 – 6.1, 6+), while iHeartMedia-owned KRFX “103.5 The Fox” erodes by nearly that same margin (4.8 – 3.7, -1.1, 6+). “The Mountain” elevates from sixth to first with its best 6+-performance (6.1) since July 2017’s 6.4. At the same time, “The Fox” drifts out of the top ten (#7 to #11), falling below a four-share (3.7, 6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2015’s 3.9. This is the fourth month in a row that Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI is up or flat for a full-share gain (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.3 – 5.6, 6+) – “101.1 Real-Music-Variety” progresses from fourth to third. Following back-to-back gains of one-tenth (3.3 – 3.4 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned KPTT erupts with a +.9 to 4.4, its strongest 6+-performance since August 2017 (4.4, as well) as “95.7 The Party – Denver’s #1 Hit Music Station” crashes the top ten (#14 to #8). Three consecutive up or flat trends by KSE Radio Ventures classic hits-oldies KXKL net one full-share (4.6 – 5.1 – 5.1 – 5.6, 6+) but “Kool 105 – Denver’s Greatest Hits” surrenders 60% of that increase with a -.6 to 5.0 (third to sixth, 6+). May’s 5.6 is its most potent 6+-stat since December 2016’s 5.7. In the market’s hot AC contest, Entercom’s KALC “Alice 105.9” is flat at 3.9 (#11 to #10, 6+) yet overtakes KSE Radio Ventures’ KIMN “Mix 100 – Today’s Best Mix” (4.0 – 3.6, -.4, #10 to #12, 6+). Ever since appearing in print, iHeartMedia’s KBWL racked up three straight increases for a collective +.7 (2.3 – 2.4 – 2.7 – 3.0, February – March – April – May, 6+), but “106.7 The Bull – Colorado’s New Country” forfeits three-tenths to 2.7 (#15 to #16, 6+). A combined -1.6 in four straight decreases (4.3 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.7, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLDV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” remains at #16 where it is part of a three-way logjam. Following five successive sweeps without an increase for a cumulative loss of nine-tenths (2.6 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 1.7, 6+), Colorado Public Radio classical KVOD logged a +.5 in May to 2.2 (6+). That, however, is erased in its entirety in June (1.7, -.5, 6+) as KVOD departs the top twenty (#19 to #21).
Tampa
Spoken-Word Formats – Despite dropping one-tenth (4.4 – 4.3, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WFLA “970 Tampa Bay’s News Radio” climbs from tenth to ninth. The +.1 pulls the plug on five sweeps in a row in which WFLA had a (6+) 
fluctuation of at least four-tenths. In January and February it was a +.5 (2.7 – 3.2 – 3.7, 6+); -.5 in March (3.7 – 3.2, 6+); +.8 in April (3.2 – 4.0, 6+); and +.4 in May (4.0 – 4.4, 6+). Having notched a 2.7 in three of the past four ratings periods (2.7 – 2.8 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” gains two-tenths to 2.9 (#16 to #15, 6+). A one-tenth setback in April ended three straight (modest) increases that produced a +.5 (2.3 – 2.6 – 2.7 – 2.8, 6+), while a January gain of three-tenths curtailed four straight down or flat trends for a collective -1.1 (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 2.8 – 2.3, 6+). Unchanged at #18, iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “620 Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Tampa Bay Rays flagship), which had been up or flat in each of the last five survey periods for a +.8 (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+), drops one-tenth to 2.2 (6+). Conversely, University of South Florida news/talk WUSF adds two-tenths to 1.9 (flat at #20, 6+), thus ending six successive ratings periods without an increase that accounted for a collective -1.6 (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 1.7, 6+).
Tampa Music Formats – It’s a solid month in this Florida market for the various shades of adult contemporary, led by Cox Media Group’s WDUV “Lite Favorites,” which is not only on top for a staggering 70th successive ratings period, but posts its fourth straight up or flat trend (8.4 – 8.9 -9.0 – 9.0 – 9.1, 6+) and is +.7 in that timeframe. “Lite Favorites” was -3.5 in January and February (11.9 – 8.8 – 8.4, 6+), following a +1.5 in “Holiday” 2017 (10.4 – 11.9, 6+). Moving up from sixth to fifth, co-owned adult contemporary WWRM “Magic 94.9 Tampa Bay’s Best Music” gains four-tenths (5.0 – 5.4, 6+). Thus far this calendar year (January 2018 – May 2018), Beasley Media Group’s WPBB has a topline of 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 1.9 (6+), but AC “B-98.7 Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites” registers a June +.6 to 2.5 (#19 to #17), its best (6+) showing since 4.0 in “Holiday” 2017. Displaying a +.6 as well is co-owned WQYK “99.5 Tampa Bay’s New Country Hits” (6.1 – 6.7, third to second, 6+). After four straight sweeps without a loss for a net gain of eight-tenths (4.5 – 4.5 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WFUS “US-103.5 Tampa Bay’s #1 for New Country” falters by four-tenths to 4.9 (fifth to sixth, 6+). May’s 5.3 is the strongest 6+-stat for WFUS since 6.0 in December 2017. Repeating in the runner-up slot, Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WXGL “107.3 The Eagle” posts a one-half share improvement (6.2 – 6.7, 6+), while Beasley Media Group’s similarly-formatted WRBQ “Q-105” regains the three-tenths it lost in May (5.8 – 5.5 – 5.8, 6+) and carries on at #4. As the result of four straight up or flat trends (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 4.7, unchanged at #7, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WXTB is a combined +.8 as “98 Rock” has its best 6+-showing since October 2017 (4.7, as well). Finishing back-to-back are its CHR cluster-mate WFLZ “93.3 – Tampa Bay’s #1 Hit Music Channel” (4.0 – 3.7, -.3, #11 to #12, 6+) and format rival – Cox Media Group’s WPOI “Hot 101.5” (3.4 – 3.5, +.1, steady at #13, 6+).
Baltimore
Spoken-Word Formats – Slipping from seventh to ninth, Entercom sports talk WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” was +.6 (January); -.6 (February); +1.0 (April); and is now a combined -1.0 in May and June (5.0 – 4.5 – 4.0, 6+). When the Orioles flagship improved by two-tenths in “Holiday” 2017, it brought to a close three straight downward moves
producing an overall -1.8 (5.6 – 4.8 – 4.5 – 3.8, 6+). For the fourth consecutive time, WAMU records a 1.1 (6+) in Baltimore – the American University-owned news/talker is flat at #15. This is the fifth decrease in a row by Your Public Radio news/talk WYPR “88.1 Your NPR News Station” for a cumulative -1.7 (4.2 – 3.7 – 3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.5, #11 to #14, 6+). 
Independent news/talk WCBM “680 Stimulating Talk – Breaking News” is up one-tenth (2.8 – 2.9, #12 to #11, 6+), while Hearst Television news/talker WBAL registers a 2.8 (6+) for the third straight month and carries on at #12. Immediately prior to January 2018, WBAL’s (6+) topline included five successive sweeps without an increase for a collective -.4. Radio One news/talk WOLB “1010 News Radio,” which was trending .3 – .3 – .3 – .3 – .2 (6+), vanished in February in March; resurfaced in April with a .2 (#22, 6+); but disappears in May and June.
Baltimore Music Formats – Without a loss for the sixth consecutive ratings period for an overall +1.8 (3.4 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.9 – 5.2, 6+), Hearst Television’s WIYY “98 Rock” carries on at #6. Trending 4.0 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.4 (6+) since January, iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR “102.7 Jack-FM Playing What We Want” hangs out a +.8 to 5.2 (eighth to sixth, 6+). This (5.2) is the best 6+-showing for Baltimore’s version of “Jack” since August 2017’s 5.7. A one-half share gain by co-owned WPOC (5.5 – 6.0, 6+) takes “93.1 – Baltimore’s #1 for New Country” from fifth to fourth (6+). WPOC was a combined -2.6 in December and “Holiday” 2017 (7.2 – 6.2 – 4.6, 6+); +2.5 in January; -.9 in February, -1.5 in April; +.6 in May; and now +.5 in June. Jumping by one-half share as well is Radio One urban contemporary WERQ “92-Q Jams” (6.6 – 7.1, repeating at #2, 6+). This (7.1) represents the best 6+-share for WERQ since September 2017’s 7.8. In three successive decreases (11.6 – 11.5 – 10.3 – 9.4, 6+), urban AC sibling WWIN was an overall -2.2 but “Magic 95.9” bounces back with a +.3 to 9.7 (6+) and is #1 for the sixth month in a row. It occupied the top spot for four sweeps in succession before segueing to #2 in December. After going eight straight sweeps without a loss for an overall +3.8 (7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 8.7 – 9.2 – 10.4 – 10.6 – 11.6, 6+), “Magic” lost one-tenth in March. Entering the November 2017 ratings period, WWIN-FM was down or flat in each of the previous four monthlies for a collective -.6 (8.4 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8 – 7.8, 6+). Unchanged at #10, iHeartMedia CHR WZFT “Z-104.3 Baltimore’s #1 Hit Music Station” hasn’t had an increase the past four sweeps and is down one-half share in that timeframe (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 4.2 – 3.8, 6+).
St. Louis
Spoken-Word Formats – On the heels of May’s +.2, Entercom news/talk KMOX “The Voice of St. Louis” forfeits three-tenths (8.3 – 8.0, 6+) but the St. Louis Cardinals
flagship – which was a whopping +2.3 in April – repeats at #1. May’s 8.3 represents the highest 6+-stat for KMOX since September 2017’s 8.4. Following a January +1.0, KMOX was a combined -.6 in February and March. As a result of four decreases in succession (8.4 – 8.0 – 6.0 – 5.5 – 5.4, 6+), “The Voice of St. Louis” was a cumulative -3.0 and had its lowest 6+-share since January’s 5.0. An October loss of four-tenths ended at three its consecutive winning streak which generated a collective +1.1 since June (7.3 – 7.5 – 7.7 – 8.4, 6+). Finishing back-to-back 
are co-owned KFTK “FM News Talk 97.1” (2.8 – 3.3, +.5, #15 to #14, 6+) and University of Missouri news/talk KWMU (2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #14 to #15, 6+). Owing to May’s +.3, KFTK ended three straight negative moves that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (3.3 – 3.1 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+). Prior to a January gain of seven-tenths, KFTK was a cumulative -1.4 in three consecutive decreases (4.0 – 3.6 – 3.1 – 2.6, 6+). By registering a half-share increase in January, KWMU halted three successive downward moves that accounted for a -.9 (4.1 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). Off by an overall half-share in February and March (3.7 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+), it added one-tenth in April. As a result of three straight negative moves, Hubbard sports talk WXOS “101 Sports” is down eight-tenths (3.5 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.7, #15 to #17, 6+). A combined -.7 from November through “Holiday” 2017 (3.9 – 3.4 – 3.2, 6+), “101 Sports” posted a +.8 in January; -.6 in February; +.1 in March; and -.6 in April.
St. Louis Music Formats – A sizeable January 2018 drop-off followed its “Holiday” 2017 10.1 (6+), but Entercom adult contemporary KEZK “102.5 The Best Mix of the ‘80s & Today” (steady at #7) is an overall +1.7 in five consecutive up or flat trends (4.2 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 4.9 – 5.0 – 5.9, 6+). Unlisted fin each of the last 18 survey periods, Gateway Creative contemporary Christian KLJY “99.1 Joy FM” returns with a +.7 (5.9 – 6.6, 6+) and finishes in fourth-place. Notching a +.7 as well is Hubbard rocker KSHE (6.2 – 6.9, fourth to second, 6+). By logging a one-half share increase in May, KSHE stymied three consecutive downward trends that accounted for a -1.2 (6.9 – 6.7 – 5.9 – 5.7, 6+). Co-owned WIL “92.3 – Nobody Plays More New Country,” which had been without a loss the past six sweeps for a +1.9 (5.3 – 5.4 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.8 – 7.2, 6+), erodes by -1.1 to 6.1 (third to sixth, 6+). Following a one-half share May increase, Radio One urban contemporary WHHL “Hot 104.1” relinquishes twice that margin (3.9 – 2.9, -1.0, #12 to #16, 6+). May’s 3.9 is its best 6+-showing since 4.3 in “Holiday” 2017. Regressing by one full-share as well is iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU (7.9 – 6.9, 6+) but “103.3 St. Louis’ Greatest Hits” remains in the runner-up slot; KLOU sputtered by one-half share in May (8.4 – 7.9, 6+). After being #1 for four consecutive months, “St Louis’ Greatest Hits” shifted to #2. A combined -2.0 in January and February (9.5 – 7.9 – 7.5, 6+), KLOU made up 45% of that loss in March and April (7.5 – 8.3 – 8.4, 6+). It rebounded from December’s -.8 with a +2.2 in “Holiday” 2017. Prior to November, when it gained nine-tenths, KLOU was down or flat the previous three monthlies for a -1.3 (8.5 – 8.5 – 7.7 – 7.2, 6+). This marks the fifth successive negative move by Radio One urban AC WFUN “95.5 R&B + Old School For The Lou” for an overall -1.5 (6.8 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 6.2 – 6.1 – 5.3, fifth to eighth, 6+).
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Swenson Out at Entercom Washington; Phil Zachary to Assume Market Manager Role. According to several consumer media reports (including the Philadelphia Business Journal) Entercom Hartford SVP and market manager
Phil Zachary is leaving the cluster to assume the same role at the company’s Washington, DC operations. The company has not commented publicly about the change, but the report indicates Zachary will take over the position from Steve Swenson. Zachary moved to the Hartford cluster from the market manager position at Entercom’s Boston operations just after the CBS RADIO deal closed last November. His duties also included oversight of the Providence and Springfield, Massachusetts markets.
Radio Station Imaging Master and Syndicated Show Host, Nick Michaels Dies. Holland Cooke Pens Tribute. One of the radio industry’s most influential voice over artists and musical curators, Nick Michaels, reportedly
died of a sudden heart attack in his Pinecrest (Miami), Florida home on Friday (5/25). Michaels was the host, writer and producer of the long-running, American Voice Corporation syndicated classic rock show, “The Deep End,” heard on music stations across the nation and the imaging voice of numerous major/medium market news/talk and all-news stations. He was known for his rich tone and thoughtful – almost poetic – approach to copy that made him one of the most distinguished performers in the radio business. Michaels’ media career began in advertising in his native Canada where success brought him to New York City in the late 1970s. He appeared as the voice in many major national radio and television spots for a variety of major products and television programs. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Nick Michaels joined forces five years ago as Michael & Michaels co-producing a Memorial Day one-time special, “The Classic Rock Summer of ’13 Kick-Off” – a two-hour countdown of the most popular summer songs from the AOR era. Harrison says, “The industry has lost a legend and I have lost a friend. Nick was a one-of-a-kind talent and a passionate proponent of everything good about the kind of radio we grew up with and love.” Media consultant, RT America TV host and special TALKERS correspondent Holland Cooke, a very close friend of Michaels, penned a tribute to the late broadcaster. To read it, please click here. In July of 2015, Nick Michaels appeared as a guest on the PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” To listen to a clip from that conversation, please click here.
WQTX, Lansing Sports Talk Host Suing Fellow Michigan Personality. What sounds like a feud between two sports talk hosts that goes back a few years is now a lawsuit in the state of Michigan. According to the Lansing State Journal,
WQTX, Lansing sports talk host Ryan Schuiling is suing WBBL, Grand Rapids-based sports talker Bill Simonson and his employer, Cumulus Media, for defamation. Schuiling alleges that Simonson made “false allegations” in a column he wrote on the blog Detroit Sports Rag, including accusing Schuiling of attempting to “orchestrate some alleged sexual interaction with Mr. Simonson’s daughter.” Schuiling says Simonson sent the link to the story to the IBEW – one of Schuiling’s sponsors – and that the actions have caused him emotional distress and have affected his professional standing in the community. Simonson says the allegations in the suit are untrue and lack merit. See the story here.
PPM Analysis: News/Talk. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his analysis of the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s April 2018 PPM survey, today focusing on news/talk. Five news/talk stations saw (6+) increases of more than one full share from March to April, and four of those benefitted from the start of the baseball season. They are: Entercom’s KMOX, St. Louis (+2.3); Scripps’ WTMJ, Milwaukee (+1.9); iHeartMedia’s WLW, Cincinnati (+1.6); KOA, Denver (+1.4); and Bonneville’s KSL-AM/FM, Salt Lake City (+1.2). Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s WTKS-FM, Orlando “Real Radio 104.1” is up 2.6 shares since April of 2017, and Emmis’ WIBC, Indianapolis is up two full shares. Four news/talk stations ranked #1 in their respective markets in April: Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta; KOA, Denver; KSL-AM/FM, Salt Lake City; and Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5.” Read the whole report here.
Price: Protect Your People, Protect Your Brand. By now, most broadcasters are aware of the tragic deaths of the two young television journalists from WYFF-TV, Greenville, South Carolina who perished while covering Subtropical Storm Alberto over the weekend. While the accident appears to have been a matter of bad timing – a tree fell on their SUV while they were driving – business continuity expert Howard Price writes that it is occurrences like these that should make all broadcasters review their safety protocols to make sure they offer the best safety practices to staffers. Read his piece here.
Radio Journalist Bob Fuss Dies at 64. Former longtime CBS Radio News reporter Bob Fuss died in Falls Church, Virginia on Sunday (5/27) after a battle with a rare form of leukemia. During his long radio news career, Fuss served as Capitol Hill correspondent for 16 years. During that time, he covered the
impeachment of President Clinton, the Florida presidential election re-count, and the 9/11 terror attacks. He covered the House and Senate for CBS Radio and reported national political stories until his retirement in 2014. CBS News general manager Craig Swagler writes about Fuss saying, “After his retirement, he wrote a book about his life, Kidnapped by Nuns: And Other Stories of a Life on the Radio, drawing from his work and personal experiences in 50 states and 70 countries. The book briefly addresses what listeners couldn’t see: he was disabled. He writes he was born with defects his parents were told could end his life before adulthood. He beat the odds and described himself as ‘a busy and active kid’ who ‘never let anything slow me down.’ That attitude held true throughout his adult life; unable to walk without crutches, he never allowed the handicap to deter him from attaining his career goals or pursuing activities like snorkeling and skiing.” Swagler adds, “Bob was an extraordinary reporter with a true skill for making complicated stories relatable for everyday people. Not only was Bob an outstanding journalist he was an all-around optimistic and funny person. A true joy to work with.”
TALKERS News Notes. In the Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana market, Cumulus Media names Aaron Criswell vice president and market manager
for the five-station cluster that includes sports talk KRMD-AM “The Ticket Sports Radio” and four music-formatted stations…..Chris Forgy is promoted within Saga Communications to the newly 
created corporate position SVP of operations. In making the announcement, Saga CEO Ed Christian comments, “Chris is a world-class broadcaster whose contributions to Saga will be very important and strategic as he joins us in the corporate office.” Most recently, Forgy was president and general manager of the company’s Columbus station group…..The Arizona Broadcasters Association announces that Art Brooks is exiting the president and CEO position after a near 30-year stint. Brooks says, “I leave the ABA proud of the many things we have been able to accomplish together in my nearly three decades of leadership and will remain ever grateful for the many friends I have made in the Arizona broadcasting community. I’m eager to explore my next adventure both personally and professionally.”
U.S.-North Korea Summit, Subtropical Storm Alberto, Ireland Abortion Vote, Starbucks Bias Training, Solo Film, Memorial Day Holiday, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The off-again, on-again summit between President Trump and Kim Jong Un; subtropical storm Alberto hits the Southeast U.S.; the aftermath of Ireland’s vote to repeal the ban on abortion; Starbucks’ plan to close all stores today (5/29) for companywide bias training; the newest Star Wars film Solo; the Memorial Day holiday; Major League Baseball action; and the NBA Conference Finals 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. On-air pro Rebecca Wilde is becoming a personality on the “Wicker in the Morning” program with Jeff Wicker on Entercom’s hot AC WTVR-FM, Richmond. Entercom Virginia SVP Bennett Zier comments, “We’re thrilled to bring Rebecca back into the Richmond mix and look forward to having her reconnect with our community. Rebecca’s drive and enthusiasm will ensure we continue to deliver the engaging local content our listeners look forward to daily on ‘Mix 98.1.’” She previously worked on-air in the market at hot AC WURV and hip hop WBTJ…..Longtime Myrtle Beach personality David “Prez” Spindler retires from Dick Broadcasting classic rock WYAV “Wave 104.1” Station operations manager Charlie Steele says, “We wish Prez the best with where life takes him next. He’s spent a long time in the radio trenches and will be missed.”
Thursday, May 24, 2018
‘Sports Radio 610’ in Houston Adds New Talent to Lineup. The Entercom sports talk station announces its new lineup that includes new voices Paul Gallant, Fred Davis, and Landry Locker. Gallant joins the AM drive “Mad Radio” show with Mike Meltser and Seth Payne on KILT-AM. Fred Davis and Landry Locker are co-hosting the midday “In the Loop” show with John Lopez. The changes take effect on Tuesday (5/29). Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “‘SportsRadio 610’ has long been the sports leader in Houston and part of remaining on top is continuing to evolve with the needs of our audience. I’m excited about the energy that Paul will bring to mornings and Fred and Landry will bring to middays.”
PPM Analysis: MLB Flagships. As Garrett Morris’ fictional “Saturday Night Live” character Chico Escuela used to say, “Baseball been berry, berry good to me!” Stations that serve as flagships for MLB teams certainly hope that baseball will be good to them each season. Today, TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian presents the first PPM analysis of the 2018 baseball season that looks at 6+ numbers from Nielsen’s April PPM survey for those stations. Some of the stations that appear to have benefitted from the first month of the season compared to their March numbers include: Entercom’s news/talk KMOX, St. Louis (up 2.3 shares); Entercom’s KDKA-FM, Pittsburgh (up 2 shares); and Scripps’ WTMJ, Milwaukee (up 1.9 shares). See Kinosian’s full report here.
Redberg Rises to VP of Sales for iHeartMedia Twin Cities. Sales pro Michelle Redberg is promoted to vice president of sales for iHeartMedia’s Minneapolis market that includes news/talk KTLK “Twin Cities News Talk,”
sports talk KFXN-FM “K-Fan,” eight music brands, plus franchise partnerships with the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, and University of Minnesota Golden Gophers football, basketball and hockey. Vice president of sales for the Western Great Lakes Region Greg Alexander states, “Michelle is one of the bright stars of our company. She has a contemporary approach to leadership along with a compassion for our advertisers and an understanding of today’s marketing and business challenges. Michelle’s passion, skills, energy and drive made her an obvious choice to help lead our strong Twin Cities brands.”
Michael Young Exits Entercom Pittsburgh Market Manager Position. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that market manager Michael Young has exited the position at Entercom’s four-station cluster there that includes news/talk KDKA-AM and sports talk KDKA-FM. Young was manager of the cluster when it was owned by CBS RADIO and stayed in his position as Entercom assumed ownership.
iHeartMedia Appoints Mark Boudreaux New Orleans Market President. New Orleans native Mark Boudreaux assumes the market president position at iHeartMedia New Orleans, effective June 11. iHeartMedia operates
news/talk WRNO-FM and sports talk WODT, plus six music formats in the market. Boudreaux was most recently business development manager at South Central AV. iHM region president Eddie Martiny says, “Who better to run our iHeartMedia New Orleans market than a native New Orleanian? Mark has a proven track record in the Crescent City as a seller, sales manager and vice president of sales. We are excited to have Mark and his infectious personality leading iHeartMedia New Orleans.”
Saga Comminucations’ Warren Lada to Retire. Longtime Saga Communications executive Warren Lada is retiring from the company and his position as chief operating officer at the end of next month. Saga president and CEO Ed Christian comments, “Warren has been an integral part of Saga for the past 27 years and we will deeply miss his contributions to Saga and its radio stations across the US.” Prior to taking on the corporate role of COO, Lada was president and general manager for Saga’s WAQY-FM, Springfield “Rock 102.”
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated talk show “Free Talk Live” – led by principals Ian Freeman, Mark Edge, and Darryl W. Perry (pictured from l-r
at right) — announces a number of new affiliates for the program. WWMN-FM in Traverse City, Michigan and KUSG-AM in Guam add the program to their schedule and WTTN-AM, Columbus, Wisconsin joins the simulcast of existing progressive talk affiliate WRRD-AM, Waukesha…..Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “Sports Radio 99.9 The Fan” and WDNC-AM “620 the Ticket” in 
Raleigh are broadcasting live, play-by-play for all games of this year’s ACC Baseball Championship series that runs through this Sunday at Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham. Vice president of programming Dennis Glasgow says, “It is our pleasure to bring as much live content as possible over the next five days with our ACC Baseball coverage to everyone in The Triangle. We have an excellent arsenal of announcers lined up to bring our listeners and baseball fans the very best play-by-play and analysis from the ACC Baseball Championship at DBAP.”…..cabana, the digital audio division of AdLarge Media, is expanding its podcast portfolio by adding the true crime genre with the podcast “Crime Junkie,” hosted by Ashley Flowers. “Crime Junkie” launched in December and, according to AdLarge, has been averaging 40,000 downloads per episode…..Tag Station announces that the
NextRadio smartphone app for listening to local FM stations is being launched for smartphone users in Mexico. Tag Station president Paul Brenner comments, “We’re thrilled that NextRadio is now available for use on both iOS and Android devices in Mexico. We want to empower all users to enjoy local FM radio without having their content restricted by geographic location or choice of device.”…..KXL, Portland news staffers Steve Leader and Rosemary Reynolds were recently honored with awards from the Associated Press. Leader is AM drive anchor at the Alpha Media station and Reynolds is a reporter. Leader received the Best Enterprise Reporting award for his series “Walk in the Hood,” a look at the way African American communities have changed in Portland through the eyes of two African Americans who grew up in Portland. Reynolds received the Best Public Service award for her series “Wanted: Foster Parents,” that addressed the 11,000 children in Oregon in need of foster care…..Pictured below is FOX Sports Radio nationally syndicated talk show host JT “The Brick” emceeing the 11th annual Coaches vs. Cancer Las Vegas Golf Classic. This was JT’s fifth year serving as emcee for the event that raised more than $1 million for the American Cancer Society.
Hobnobbing at The Gracies. Pictured above at the 43rd Annual Gracie Awards on Tuesday (5/22) at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles are: Sun Broadcast Group CEO Jason Bailey (left), Weiss Agency EVP and AWMF director Heather Cohen, and Kris Bailey.
Cool Job Opportunity for KNX Full Time Writer/Producer. Entercom’s all-news KNX, Los Angeles is looking for a fearless, aggressive, energetic, enthusiastic, and creative team player. The right candidate is a real show producer and not just a guest booker. Must have a strong rolodex, good news judgment and the ability to write quick, clear, compelling and concise scripts without the usual cliché’s or news speak. Must work and play well in a fast, high-pressure all-news environment. Intimate knowledge of socializing content in all platforms is a MUST. Prior major-market producing and news writing experience required. Strong multi-tasking and computer skills required. Familiarity with Southern California including politics, pop culture, lifestyle, etc. preferred. Must be available to work all hours, overnights, and weekends. Required to join the Writers Guild of America. For more information, please click here.
Trump-Russia Investigation, Status of North Korea Talks, U.S.-China Relations, New NFL Anthem Protest Rule, Parents Evict Son Case, Milwaukee Police Tase NBA Player, Iran Nuclear Deal, Primary Races, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/23). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the uncertain status of scheduled talks between President Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the state of relations between the U.S. and China after the latter is uninvited from joint military exercises; the NFL bans sideline anthem protests; the court case of the New York couple evicting their 30-year-old son; the Milwaukee police apologize after Bucks player Sterling Brown is tased during a parking violation incident; the aftermath of the U.S. pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal; Tuesday’s primary races in Georgia, Texas, and Kentucky; Major League Baseball action; and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. There’s news from Chicago as Windy City media maven Robert Feder writes today about legendary jock Dick Biondi’s official exit from Cumulus Media’s classic hits WLS-FM. Feder says that at some point Biondi’s status changed from inactive employee – Biondi was hospitalized in April of 2017 for an ailment – to former employee. Biondi had been hosting a weekend morning show on WLS-FM. Cumulus Chicago VP and market manager Marv Nyren told him Biondi’s employment with the station ended “months ago.”…..Robert Feder also reports that Entercom is promoting weekend and fill-in jock Richard Milne to full-time afternoon drive (4:00 pm to 8:00 pm) personality on triple A WXRT. The move bumps Jason Thomas to weekend and fill-in duties as well as host of Monday evening’s “The Big Beat” show…..Tomorrow (5.25), Entercom New York’s classic hits WCBS-FM 101.1, New York’s Greatest Hits is broadcasting the “Shannon in the Morning Summer Beach Blastoff” featuring “Scott Shannon & The Big Show” live from the boardwalk at Coney Island. Hosting the event will be Scott Shannon with Patty Steele, Sue Aller, John Elliot and Brad Blanks, with special performances by Taylor Dayne and Smash Mouth.
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Entercom Reports 2018 Q1 Financial Data; Same-Station Net Revenue Down 7.7%. This is the first full quarter that Entercom is reporting since closing on the CBS RADIO merger back on November 17 of last year. As a result, the company’s net revenue jumped from $99 million in Q1 of 2017 to $300.6 million in Q1 of this year. However, on a same-station basis, net
revenue for the quarter dipped 7.7%, from $324.9 million in the first quarter of 2017 to $300.6 in the first quarter of this year. Entercom president and CEO David Field states, “Since closing on our merger in November, we have moved quickly to implement rapid change and have made good progress on our various integration, synergy and transformation goals. We have built a 
terrific leadership team and are driving strong ratings growth and launching a number of revenue-driving initiatives to capitalize on our scale and compete far more effectively against other media for a larger share of ad spending. Earlier today, we announced the launch of the Entercom Audio Network, which will enable us to use our scale to participate directly in the $1 billion network radio market. Our first quarter financial results were adversely affected by soft general local advertising conditions and a number of temporary factors, most notably the exclusion of $12 million in revenue due to financial issues at USTN. As these temporary factors abate and our growth initiatives take hold, we look forward to driving meaningful sustainable growth as we capitalize on the compelling brands, assets and capabilities of this exciting, emerging company.”
Entercom Audio Network to Launch in July. As mentioned by Entercom president and CEO David Field in the story above, the company is introducing its new ad sales network dubbed, Entercom Audio Network, on July 1. The company says, “The national network will allow advertisers to leverage Entercom’s scale with targeted offerings across its portfolio of 235 top-rated radio stations reaching over 112 million listeners monthly.” Company chief revenue officer Bob Phillips states, “Entercom now offers brands the national scale they need, including seamless activation and superior ROI. We are the country’s unrivaled leader in news and sports radio and #1 or #2 in virtually all music formats. Our connection to consumers is coveted by many national brands.” Field adds, “As one of the two largest radio broadcasters in the country, Entercom has the scale and reach to offer national brands a very compelling and effective unwired network with our premier collection of leading radio brands across the country.”
Townsquare Media’s Q1 2018 Net Revenue Up 5.9%. That figure represents the net revenue for Townsquare Media’s Local Marketing Solutions division – the broadcast and digital operations – and not the live events-oriented
Entertainment division. Combining both divisions, the company’s net revenue was up 6.6% over the same period in 2017. Townsquare co-CEO Bill Wilson comments, “Once again, our Local Marketing Solutions segment drove the Company’s growth, with net revenue growth of 5.9%, or 5.6% excluding political revenue. First quarter growth in this segment was driven by continued strength across our local broadcast and digital product offerings, which culminated in our 17th consecutive quarter of positive, organic revenue growth.” Net revenue in the Local Marketing Solutions in the first quarter was $80.6 million. The company also reports that it paid off $9.5 million in long-term debt.
Saga Communications Q1 Net Revenue Rises 7.1%. Michigan-based Saga Communications reports 2018 first quarter net revenue was $28 million – an increase of 7.1% over the same period a year ago. Operating income from continuing operations increased 17.5% to $2.3 million and station operating expense increased 9.6% to $23.4 million for the quarter. The company notes that its quarterly results were affected by the sale of its Charleston and Hilton Head, South Carolina TV stations last September. On a same-station basis, net revenue increased 0.3% to $26.2 million and operating income from continuing operations increased 26.3% to $2.5 million. Saga reports having $47.8 million in cash on hand as of March 31 and $49.8 million as of May 1. The company’s total long-term debt was $25 million as of March 31.
Scripps Radio Division to Be Sold in Pieces. During yesterday’s conference call with investors, there was just a brief mention of E.W. Scripps’ plans to sell its radio division. Local Media division president Brian Lawlor responded to a question about the status of the radio stations, saying, “Yes. The radio sale, the process continues. We’ve made a decision in order to maximize the value 
of the assets to sell the division in several pieces instead of one big bang. I think that’s where we see the greatest value for the company and for shareholders. And so, it’s just a little bit more complicated, I would say, than if it were just a singular transaction.” That’s not surprising since the company owns two signals in Milwaukee – news/talk WTMJ and country WKTI – and stations in much smaller markets including: Omaha, Boise, Tucson, Knoxville, Wichita, and Tulsa. As we reported yesterday, there’s an unconfirmed rumor that Entercom is talking with Scripps about the Milwaukee stations. Thanks to Seeking Alpha for the conference transcript. Members can read it all here.
Greg Neft Named Program Director at ‘PowerTalk 96.7’ in Fresno. Talk radio pro Greg Neft joins iHeartMedia as program director for news/talk KALZ-FM/KRZR-AM, Fresno “PowerTalk 96.7.” Neft previously worked in the market as a news anchor and reporter. He has served as morning news
anchor at Cox Media Group’s WOKV-AM/FM, Jacksonville and as an NFL reporter for SiriusXM. Most recently, he was corporate director of news and content programming for Cherry Creek Media. iHM Fresno SVP of programming Steve Weed comments, “Greg joins us at a very opportune time, heading into a crucial election season for our region and our state. I look forward to his skills and experience elevating our breaking news coverage.”
Former Seahawk Cliff Avril to Co-Host KJR-AM, Seattle Sports Talk Show. Seattle sports talk outlet KJR-AM “Sports Radio 950” announces that former 
Seattle Seahawks defensive end Cliff Avril is partnering with the station’s Jason Puckett for the 10:00 am to 1:00 pm show, effective July 9. Puckett is a 15-year veteran of the iHeartMedia station and Avril retired from the NFL after being released by the Seahawks after a five-year stint. Avril says, “I’m excited to join the KJR team! Seattle is home and I can’t wait to cover the best sports city in the world.”
TALKERS News Notes. WNBC-TV, New York is reporting the former Port Authority police superintendent may have violated policy by providing a “lights-and-sirens” escort from the Newark airport into Manhattan for Premiere Networks superstar Rush Limbaugh. The station says Michael Fedorko announced his retirement suddenly, about a week after it became known WNBC-TV reporters were investigating the allegation. The report says the escort was to get Limbaugh to a charity dinner at which he was a “last-minute” speaker. It also says Limbaugh talked about it on his radio show, saying, “So they sent the superintendent of the Port Authority to Newark to meet me for lights and sirens into Manhattan to make sure I got there in time. And we did.”…..Radio sales pro Tim Robisch is named director of sales for Beasley Media Group’s Las Vegas cluster that includes news/talk KDWN. He most recently served with Great Plains Media in suburban Kansas City. He’s also held positions with Cox Media Group, Entercom Communications, Susquehanna Radio Corporation, and Katz Radio (at which he was served as regional vice president)…..New affiliate stations sign up for the John Kruse-hosted outdoors radio programs “America Outdoors Radio” and “Northwestern Outdoors Radio.” Both shows focus on fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation. KDZR, Portland and KBOI, Boise recently added both shows to their program schedules…..Patrick Communications managing partner Larry Patrick is delivering the 2018 Commencement Speech for the College of Communications and Information at the University of Tennessee this Saturday (5/12). Patrick is a 1973 graduate of UT.
Iran Nuclear Deal, Trump-Russia Investigation, Stormy Daniels Case, Schneiderman Allegations, John McCain Illness/Book, W.VA Senate Race, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/8). The looming decision by President Trump whether the U.S. will remain in the Iran nuclear deal; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into potential connections between the Trump campaign and Russian agents; the Stormy Daniels payoff, Rudy Giuliani’s role representing President Trump, and the “Saturday Night Live” sketch lampooning the issue; New York attorney general – and Donald Trump critic – Eric Schneiderman resigns amid allegations of abusing four women; terminally ill Senator John McCain’s HBO documentary and new book; the U.S. Senate Republican primary race in West Virginia and President Trump’s urging voters to reject controversial GOP candidate Don Blankenship; Major League Baseball action, and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. CHR KBKS, Seattle “106.1 KISS FM” announces that on-air pro Zann is the iHeartMedia station’s new afternoon drive personality. She was most recently with Cumulus Media’s KLIF-FM, Dallas as midday personality. She was also heard on Westwood One’s Hot AC and Hits Now 24/7 formats. At the same time, Zach “Mayhem” Wellsandt is the new midday personality who will also serve as APD and music director. He moves to Seattle from the company’s Central Texas Region where he was director of CHR…..Programming pro Matt Johnson is appointed program director for iHeartMedia’s St. Louis CHR KSLZ-FM “Z107.7.” iHM SVP of programming Jules Riley comments, “Matt is a solid addition to the KSLZ and iHeart St. Louis team. We look forward to watching him grow this heritage CHR brand. We spoke with a number of talented programmers, but Matt’s drive, creativity, and talent development made him our ideal candidate.”…..Cumulus Media announces that radio and television marketing pro Marty Wall is joining
the Detroit cluster as director of marketing for country duo WDRQ “NASH FM 93.1” and WDRQ-HD2 “NASH Icon” and hot AC WDVD. Cumulus Detroit director of FM programming Robby Bridges says, “Marty’s work at ‘Z100’ in New York is legendary. That, paired with his experience across the media landscape during his years in L.A., gives him the unique ability to connect audiences to station brands and brands to clients. He’s a relentless competitor whom I believe will be a game changer for our Detroit cluster. I’m looking forward to his working with 
me, promotion manager Rochelle Burk, and promo director/street team captain Adam Ficorelli.”…..There are two appointments in the sales department at iHeartMedia Chicago. First, Khatija Mohiuddin is named general sales manager for hip hop WGCI and CHR WKSC “103.5 KISS FM.” Also, Brian McGhee is the new
general sales manager for urban contemporary WVAZ “V103” and Gospel WGRB-AM “Inspiration 1390.” iHeartMedia Chicago Region president Matt Scarano states, “We put a priority on recognizing our high performers with advancement opportunities and these two staff promotions are true testaments to Khatija’s and Brian’s leadership skills and ability to form strong client relationships.” Mohiuddin most recently served as local sales manager for WGCI and WGRB-AM. McGhee most recently served as sales manager for the company’s St. Louis cluster.
Monday, April 23, 2018
Possible Deal Brewing in St. Louis Involving KTRS and KFNS. As reported in the St. Louis Post- Dispatch, (mostly) sports talk KFNS owner Randy Markel is ready to sell KFNS and he’s in talks with crosstown news/talk KTRS owner CH Holdings. Dan Caesar’s piece reports that this is in the early
stages as the full CH Holdings board has not yet been presented with details of a deal and Markel says he’s had talks with others about acquiring KFNS. Markel told the paper he’s spent about $3 million to resuscitate KFNS after buying it out of bankruptcy. An interesting twist to the story is that a number of former KTRS staffers – including former afternoon personality Frank O. Pinion – now work at KFNS and a reunion of them with KTRS management might be less than smooth. For now though, KFNS is on the block and only time will tell if there’s a serious buyer for the signal.
Laura Ingraham in Legal Battle Over Fired Former Assistant. The suit against Courtside Entertainment nationally syndicated radio host and FOX News Channel personality Laura Ingraham was filed in Washington, DC
Superior Court by former Ingraham assistant Karolina Wilson and claims that Ingraham and her company violated anti-discrimination laws and DC’s Family and Medical Leave Act. The suit alleges that Wilson worked for Ingraham with “proficiency” for 16 months prior to becoming pregnant. After notifying Ingraham over her condition, Wilson says Ingraham’s attitude toward her changed with Ingraham becoming “distant and angry with her work performance.” The two sides also allegedly argued over proper maternity leave time after Wilson’s child was born. Upon returning to work, Wilson was fired from her position. In a response to the Washington Post, about the suit, Ingraham’s attorney denies the allegations and in response to the suit, rejects Wilson’s contention that her work prior to becoming pregnant was “extremely efficient.” The two sides are expected in court for a hearing on May 11.
Daria Dolan Expresses Gratitude and Optimism to the Radio Industry. As reported in TALKERS (4/18), pioneering financial talk show host Ken Dolan of the legendary husband-wife team “The Dolans” passed away last Tuesday (4/17) after a long battle with lymphoma. Readers wanting to reach out to his media partner and wife of 46 years, Daria Dolan, were advised that they could do so through longtime family friend Michael Harrison via email at
michael@talkers.com. According to Harrison, “The huge amount of heartfelt emails and phone calls from all ends of the industry expressing love and support for Daria has been truly wonderful. However, I’m not at all surprised by the stunning outpouring of love and emotion. The Dolans are a truly special part of radio’s golden history.” Daria Dolan has written the following note of gratitude to the radio industry: When Michael Harrison asked to do a tribute to Ken I was touched and thrilled. Ken Dolan lived and breathed radio and was so good at it. I was just fortunate to be along for the ride. I often characterized myself as the guy at the end of the parade with the can, shovel and broom. But the response of so many of you surpasses touched and thrilled. Too many people these days say radio is dead or simply on its last legs. Nothing could be further from the truth. From the on-air personalities to the support staff in the booths and the copy editors and traffic managers in the ad departments, your overwhelming reaching out to me confirms my belief that no industry with heart that beats as strongly as I have seen and heard in emails and phone calls could possibly be dying. Your heartfelt responses show me an industry that has plenty of life left. Radio may certainly be evolving but it is NOT dying. So please keep the wonderful spark you all have alive and continue to give it your all every day. It’s true that part of my heart has gone to another place, but the other piece is here with all of you in solidarity. It will remain so until I join Ken again. Thank you so much for caring about my Ken and saving some of the concern for me as well.
– Daria Dolan
McMahon: Why Radio (and TV) Newscasts Sound the Same. Consultant Bill McMahon writes today about the “sameness” of radio (and television) news reporting. Using the case of the media coverage of the execution of convicted murderer Cal Brown as his case study, McMahon illustrates how numerous news outlets can send crews to the same news event and the resulting reporting is pretty much the same. Read McMahon’s piece here.
TALKERS News Notes. At Saga Communications’ Ithaca, New York news/talk WHCU, the station goes from a local morning show to the Compass
Media-syndicated “This Morning with Gordon Deal” program. Lee Rayburn has been the morning drive host at the station for the past six years and announced his departure via Facebook in which he says that the morning show position at the station has been eliminated…..New England Sports Network studio host and 
anchor Marc James is doing some fill-in work at Entercom’s sports talker WEEI-FM, Boston. James sat in over the weekend with Trenni Kusnierek and John Tomase on the “Trenni & Tomase” show. Tomorrow (4/24), he’ll be a cast member on the afternoon drive on the “Dale & Keefe” show with Dale Arnold and Rich Keefe. James previously hosted on sports talk outlets WFNC, Charlotte and WZGC-FM, Atlanta…..Monticello Media names Ralph Salierno vice president and general manager of the company’s Charlottesville, 
Virginia cluster that includes news/talk WCHV and four music-formatted stations. Salierno was most recently serving with Alpha Media as market manager for the company’s Fredericksburg, Virginia cluster…..Yesterday (4/22) was the debut of the
venerable “CBS Sunday Morning” television program on the radio. CBS News Radio began making the audio of the 9:00 am ET television news magazine available to radio affiliates. CBS News Radio says that in addition to the Jane Pauley-hosted show being available to radio stations, it is also being made available as a podcast at Radio.com…..The FOX Sports Radio lineup is getting cleared in the Chicago market as DuPage Radio’s suburban simulcast of WCKG-AM, Elmhurst and translator W272DQ at 102.3 FM turn into a sports talker featuring Clay Travis, Dan Patrick, Colin Cowherd, and Rich Eisen. The station plans to add a local afternoon show to the station soon.
Trump -Russia Investigation, Iran Nuclear Deal, North Korea Nuclear Program, Waffle House Shooter, Bloomberg Climate Accord Payment, Barbara Bush Tribute, Macron’s U.S. Visit, Romney Senate Bid, MLB and NBA Playoffs Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents, the Trump administration’s threat to leave the Iran nuclear deal; North Korea’s overtures to the U.S. and whether it really would end its nuclear weapons program; a man shoots four dead at a Nashville Waffle House; UN special envoy for climate change Michael Bloomberg pledges to write a $4.5 million check to cover the U.S.’s financial commitment to the Paris climate accord; former presidents and first ladies pay tribute to the late Barbara Bush; French president Emanuel Macron’s impending visit to the U.S.; Mitt Romney to run in Republican primary for Utah senate seat; and Major League Baseball and NBA playoffs action among top news/talk stories over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Travis Daily is named operations manager and program director for Beasley Media Group’s country WQYK, Tampa. Daily was most recently with iHeartMedia as SVP of programming for the company’s Tampa
and Sarasota stations. Speaking about his new gig, Daily says, “I could not be more thrilled to be joining what I feel is the most exciting media company in America. From the moment I started talking to George Toulas, Justin Chase, DJ Stout and Brian Beasley, I knew this was the team I had to be on. I am truly humbled to have the opportunity to be part of such an awesome 
group in Tampa.”…..The Envision Networks-syndicated “Ashley & Brad” program adds two more affiliate stations to it roster as WAFN-FM, Huntsville “FUN 92.7” and WNXT-FM, Portsmouth, Ohio “MIX 99.3” add the show to their programming lineups…..Buffalo adult standards WECK is adding another FM signal to its simulcast. It’s new FM translator at 100.5 joins WECK-AM’s 1230 AM and fellow translator W275BB at 102.9 FM. Station owner Buddy Shula says the additional translator will give improved FM coverage for Buffalo and its northern suburbs. Shula says, “The response to our full-service, local personality-based adult standards format has been incredible. Adding FM coverage for rapidly growing parts of our metro is important to WECK’s overall growth strategy – and to the service to our communities.”…..Beasley Media Group’s rock WMMR, Philadelphia is celebrating its 50th anniversary of broadcasting in Philadelphia on Sunday (4/29). During this week’s build-up to Sunday’s anniversary, legendary host Pierre Robert– a fixture at the station for all but 13 of its 50 years – will host a daily, 90-minute feature focusing on the five decades of music and Philadelphia events, beginning each day at 12:00 noon. On Saturday (4/28), the station will play the top 50 live performances culled from the “MMaRchives,” featuring hundreds of live performances recorded at the WMMR studios, as well as local venues and the venerable Sigma Sound recording Studio…..iHeartMedia is kicking off the summer with the “2018 iHeartRadio Wango Tango By AT&T” hosted by Ryan Seacrest and featuring performances from today’s hottest artists including: Ariana Grande, Shawn Mendes, Meghan Trainor, 5 Seconds of Summer, NF, Miguel, Janelle Monáe and Marshmello with a special guest performance by Logic, with more to be announced. The “iHeartRadio Wango Tango By AT&T” will be the first concert held at the all-new Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles on Saturday, June 2…..Los Angeles alternative rock outlet KROQ announces the lineup for this year’s “26th Annual KROQ Weenie Roast.” Acts will include: Blink – 182, Panic! At The Disco, Rise Against, Dirty Heads, Mike Shinoda, Cold War Kids, The War On Drugs, Awolnation, Bishop Briggs, Alice Merton, Manchester Orchestra, James Bay, Nothing But Thieves, and Mt. Joy. The show takes place at the Stub Hub Center on Saturday, May 12.
Thursday, January 4, 2018
CBS News Radio Announces Major Affiliation Deals with Entercom, Alpha Media, and Saga Communications. These three new agreements to provide news, information and entertainment content to radio stations pushes CBS News Radio’s affiliation count over the 450-station mark. The new deals with Entercom Communications, Alpha Media, and Saga Communications were announced by CBS News CFO Charles Pavlounis. CBS News Radio will continue to be heard on
venerable news outlets such as WCBS, New York; KNX, Los Angeles; and WBBM, Chicago – all stations that Entercom acquired in the CBS RADIO deal. The affiliate agreements are the latest under CBS News Radio’s relationship with Skyview Networks for distribution, inventory management and sales, which went into effect on January 1. The agreement with Entercom also includes a co-producing arrangement for a one-minute original update each weekday and a two-hour weekend original long-form program addressing veterans’ issues, both titled “Eye on Veterans.” Entercom programming EVP Chris Oliviero comments, “As America’s premier producer of local news audio content, Entercom is proud to continue our stations’ historic bond with CBS News Radio, which provides our millions of listeners with the best and most-trusted national and international coverage 24/7. Also, with the launch of ‘Eye on Veterans,’ we are excited to begin collaborating on new programming vehicles with CBS News Radio that will engage and inform audiences on topics that resonate coast to coast.”
Programming Pro Tim Sabean Joins Westwood One as SVP of Digital Content. Former SiriusXM/Howard Stern and Infinity Broadcasting rock programmer Tim Sabean is named to the SVP, digital content position at Westwood One. The company says that Sabean will be “responsible for talent discovery, content
partnership development, and audience growth strategies to engage listenership and drive monetization, particularly in the fast-growing podcast space.” He’ll be based in NYC and report to WW1 president Suzanne Grimes. In addition to his time with SiriusXM as SVP for the Howard Stern channels and as SVP, comedy and entertainment, Sabean was VP of rock programming for the old Infinity Broadcasting supervising such heritage rockers as WYSP, Philadelphia; WBCN, Boston; WRKZ, Pittsburgh; and WXRK, New York. About his new gig, Sabean says, “I’m thrilled to be a part of the Westwood One family. As the largest radio network in the U.S., we are the destination for new talent opportunities and creative endeavors reaching a quarter of a billion listeners each week. I’m eager to work with Suzanne Grimes and the rest of the Westwood One team to deliver engaging and entertaining programming to our audiences as we build a unique and powerful digital experience.”
Mancow Drops Suit Against Boss. As reported by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, WLUP-FM morning personality Erich Mancow Muller has dropped the lawsuit he’d filed against his new boss at the Cumulus Media station. When Marv Nyren was hired to take over the VP/market manager roles at Cumulus Chicago, 
Muller filed a suit against him in order to prevent “retaliatory” behavior toward him by Nyren. Muller said his claim was based on his history with Nyren that included Nyren firing him from then-Emmis-owned alt rocker WKQX. Muller claimed that Nyren executed a series of retaliatory moves against him at that time and he even sued Nyren for $6 million in 2007. That suit ended in an undisclosed settlement. Feder’s report indicates Nyren and Muller have since sat down and talked about their history and are moving forward as a team.
Trump-Bannon Rift/Trump Jr.-Russia Meeting, Manafort Sues Mueller-DOJ, North Korea Nuclear Ambitions, Demise of Voter Fraud Commission, Iran Protests, Romney Senate Run, Frigid Winter Weather, NFL Playoffs and NBA Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/3). The caustic response from President Trump to former adviser Stephen K. Bannon’s statements that Donald Trump Jr. committed treason by meeting with a Russian lawyer during the 2016 campaign; former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort sues special counsel Robert Mueller and the Department of Justice over the Trump-Russia probe; North Korea’s nuclear weapons program and the war of words between President Trump and Kim Jong Un; Trump shuts down the Voter Fraud Commission saying states aren’t cooperating; Iran cracks down on protest movement; speculation about a possible U.S. Senate run by Mitt Romney; the freezing weather affecting much of the U.S.; the NFL playoffs and NBA action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Westwood One Expands Partnership with Veritone for Analytics Services. The content syndicator and national sales arm of Cumulus Media says that this broadening of its relationship with Veritone is a follow-through on its “promise to provide analytics for native advertising and live reads” by monitoring, verifying, and measuring “in-content audio ad units and sponsorship campaigns across
Westwood One’s live programming – from sports and news/talk to music and entertainment.” WW1 says that working with Veritone to monitor its play-by-play sports content has been so successful that it’s extended the service to its live, syndicated news/talk and music radio shows. Cumulus EVP corporate marketing and Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes states, “This addition to our best-in-class ROI and accountability insights toolset is another first for the radio industry. Our advertisers can personally ensure their messages are delivered. In addition to verification, which is crucial, our advertisers can monitor their own campaigns. Voiced reads, in-program interviews, commercial audio, and native brand mentions airing during Westwood One live programming are now captured and made searchable.”
Senator Chris Coons Reads School Closings on WDEL, Wilmington. WDEL director of news and programming Chris Carl tells TALKERS magazine that U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) appeared on the station’s morning show today after reaching out yesterday to ask if he could come to the station to read the school closings because “it’s something he’s always wanted to do.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Hip hop WKYS, Washington adds DJ 5’9 Davis to the morning drive program “The FAM.” He moves from the “Night Show” he’d been co-hosting with Shorty Da Prince at the Radio One station. WKYS program director J1
states, “I’m very excited to have 5’9 on the morning show. He brings a raw humor, wit, and intellect that just can’t be taught. I am confident with the addition of 5’9, ‘The FAM Morning Show’ will reach new heights.”…..“NASH Nights Live” co-host Elaina Smith (right) is pictured here with “Nashville” director Tim Busfield (left) on the set of the CMT drama. She can be seen on tonight’s (8:00 pm ET) episode playing herself as she does a radio interview with show character Juliette Barnes (played by Hayden Panettiere).
Round Three of December PPM Ratings. December 2017 ratings information has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Cincinnati, Orlando, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s December 2017 survey period covered November 9 – December 6. View all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM markets, with a reminder that the vast majority of major November 2017 – December 2017 improvements by music stations is attributable to a transition to all-Christmas music.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
1) Portland – Following a loss of nine-tenths in November, iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW “K-103” strikes back with an increase more than quintupling that decrease and is back in first-place (8.3 – 13.7, +4.7, #2 to #1, 6+). “K-103” is the first Portland station to reach double-digits (6+) since it did so in “Holiday” 2016 (15.3). At this time last year
(December 2016), KKCW registered a 9.8 (6+). A collective -1.4 in three straight downward trends (9.1 – 8.6 – 8.6 – 7.7, 6+), “K-103” responded in October with a +1.5. Prior to segueing to #2 in September, “K-103” was #1 in 39 of the previous 41 ratings periods. Even though KOPB adds four-tenths in both November and December (8.0 – 8.4 – 8.8, 6+), the Oregon Public Broadcasting news/talker drops from first (after one-month) to second. Entering the September sweep, KOPB occupied the runner-
up position 21 successive times, but aided by a +1.4, it finally reached #1. It was a short stay there then as well since KOPB plummeted by -1.1 (9.1 – 8.0, 6+) and returned to its familiar runner-up spot. Seven recent trends for KOPB are +.9 in March; -.8 in May; +.6 in June; -.9 in July; +.6 in August; +1.4 in September; and -1.1 in October. Both “City of Roses” mainstream CHR outlets falter by six-tenths. Specifically, iHeartMedia-owned KKRZ “Z-100 Portland’s #1 Hit Music Station” continues an alternating down/up pattern that began in May (4.1 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 4.2 – 4.0 – 4.4 – 3.8, seventh to ninth, 6+) and is off a collective three-tenths in that stretch. Meanwhile, the -.6 (to 3.7, 6+) by Alpha Media’s KBFF “Live 95.5 – The Station That Sounds Like Portland” halts four straight (slightly) up or flat trends that yielded four-tenths (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.3, ninth to tenth, 6+). For the fourth time in a row – and fifth time in the last six sweeps – “Z-100” and “Live 95.5” are separated by just one-tenth of a share (6+). Although it is unchanged at #10, this marks the fifth straight month that Entercom-owned KWJJ “99.5 The Wolf – Great Country for the Great Northwest” is without an increase for a combined -1.9 (5.6 – 5.2 – 4.6 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.7, 6+). Prior to gaining three-tenths in June, “The Wolf” was -1.8 in March, April, and May (6.4 – 5.5 – 4.8 – 4.6, 6+). Its direct competitor – Alpha Media’s KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” – returns November’s +.3 and one-tenth more (4.4 – 4.0, -.4, 6+), slipping from seventh to eighth. Entering the November sweep, “The Bull” had three straight flat or down monthlies that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (4.9 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+). In April – May – June, “The Bull” was down -1.1 (5.5 – 4.5 – 4.4, 6+). The two country rivals finished back-to-back at seventh and eighth, respectively, in both May and June. A loss of nine-tenths (7.2 – 6.3, 6+) takes iHeartMedia-owned KLTH to its lowest 6+-share since June’s 6.1, but “106.7 The Eagle – Portland’s Classic Hits Station” remains at #3. Off
one full-share in four straight down or flat moves (5.4 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.4, 6+), Entercom hot AC KRSK “105.1 The Buzz – Today’s Best Mix” continues at #6. Following five successive sweeps without a loss for an overall +.4 (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk KEX “News Radio 1190” slips by three-tenths to 1.3 (6+), but carries on at #21.
2) Charlotte – The market’s top six December 2017 finishers are either up or flat from November 2017. With a mammoth +3.0 (4.0 – 7.0, 6+), Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC “K-104.7 More Music, More Variety” boasts 
Charlotte’s highest month-to-month improvement and soars from #12 all the way to #2. This is its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2016’s 12.3. Trending a very consistent 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.9 (August – September – October – November, 6+), WLKO busts out a +2.3 to 7.2 (6+) as “102.9 The Lake – Charlotte’s We Play Anything Station” marches from seventh to first. This is the best 6+-showing for the iHeartMedia adult hits facility in more than three years (7.4, September 2014). Co-owned classic rocker WRFX “99.7 The Fox,” which had been on top the past three months, segues to #3. Despite exiting the lead position, “The Fox” is without a loss for the fifth straight time for an overall +1.2 (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.7 – 6.9 – 6.9, 6+). It had been #1 in five consecutive survey periods before getting dislodged in June. In four straight decreases between March and July, however, “The Fox” lost two full-shares (7.7 – 7.6 – 7.2 – 6.2 – 5.7, 6+). Its HD2 channel, which played all-Christmas music during the December 2017 ratings period before shifting to contemporary Christian on Christmas Day (12/25), picks up one-half share (.1 – .6, 6+) and is in a three-way tie at #20. It is a mixed bag for Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV “V-101.9,” which is up seven-tenths via four successive sweeps without a loss (5.7 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.4, 6+), yet backslides from a second-place tie to fourth. As the result of six consecutive up or flat moves, sports talk cluster-mate WFNZ
“Sports Radio The Fan” has more than tripled its 6+-stat (.6 – .7 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.9, steady at #18, 6+). Having logged a 6+-share between 5.5 – 5.9 in each of the last 11 survey periods, Radio One urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF “Old School 105.3” stumbles by -1.1 in December (5.9 – 4.8, 6+), dropping from fourth to eighth. Plummeting by -1.1 as well is University Radio Foundation-owned news/talk WFAE “90.7 Charlotte’s NPR News Source,” which exits the top ten (4.2 – 3.1, #9 to #14, 6+). WFAE was -.6 in October; +.5 in November; and now -1.1 in December. Over the course of nine ratings periods (January through September, however, it was no higher than 4.3 (6+) and no lower than 4.0 (6+); December’s 3.1 is its lowest 6+-showing since 2.8 in “Holiday” 2016. Albeit a collective -.9 in November and December (4.0 – 3.6 – 3.1, 6+), similarly-programmed/Entercom-owned WBT nonetheless manages to move from #16 to 
#14. WBT was +1.4 in three consecutive improvements (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 4.0, July – August – September – October, 6+) and hit the four-share mark (6+) in October 2017 for the first time since October 2016’s 4.1. Surrendering all of November’s +.7 plus two-tenths more, iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” (6.1 – 5.2, -.9, 6+) drifts from a second-place tie to seventh with its lowest 6+-showing since 4.0 in “Holiday” 2016. Steady at #5, Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC “Country’s Hottest Hits” has been trending 5.5 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 6.0 (6+) since September. In advance of October’s +.3, WSOC was flat or down the previous four months for an overall loss of -1.1 (6.6 – 6.0 – 6.0 – 5.6 – 5.5, 6+). While WSOC succeeded WKKT at #1 in July, WKKT supplanted WSOC at #1 the following month. Owing to a -.6 (to 3.1, 6+), iHeartMedia CHR WHQC puts an end to a repetitive 3.5 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.7 (6+) pattern but “Channel 96.1” advances from #15 to a three-way tie at #14. By picking up one-tenth to 4.2 (6+), its format rival – Beasley Media Group’s WNKS “Kiss 95.1 – Charlotte’s #1 Hit Music Station” – pulls the plug on five consecutive declines that accounted for a -1.3 (5.4 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+); “Kiss” is back in the top ten (#11 to #10). Its urban contemporary sibling WPEG, however, is a combined -1.6 in five straight decreases (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.4 – 4.3, 6+), as “Power 98” drops from eighth to ninth.
3) San Antonio – Powered by a +3.9 (4.8 – 8.7, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT “Q-101.9 San Antonio’s Variety Station” leaps from fifth to first with its strongest 6+-performance since “Holiday” 2016’s 11.8. Dislodged from the top spot – after ten straight months there – is Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s
Greatest Hits,” which segues to #2 (6.8 – 5.9, -.9, 6+). Ten recent (6+) fluctuations for “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” include October 2016’s -1.0; November 2016’s +.9; December 2016’s -1.1; “Holiday” 2016’s -1.3; January 2017’s +1.1; April’s +.8; May’s -.6; August’s -.5; October’s +.7; and now December’s -.9. A collective -1.8 in October and November (4.2 – 3.2 – 2.4, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KZLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” recaptures half that loss in December with a +.9 to 3.3 (6+), progressing from #19 to #13. In a similar vein, following three straight dips that accounted for a -1.2 (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.3, 6+), Cox Media Group’s KISS “99 Rocks” erases half that deficit with a +.6 to 4.9 (ninth to fifth, 6+). Yet another negative streak comes to an end as iHeartMedia-owned CHR KXXM “96.1 Now – San Antonio’s #1 Hit Music Station” posts a one-half share gain to 3.7 (#13 to #11, 6+), curtailing four successive down or flat trends that produced a -1.2 (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). Format rival – Alpha Media’s KTFM “Energy 94.1” – is off seven-tenths to 2.4 (#16 to #18, 6+), ending three straight (modest) increases that netted an overall gain of one-half share (2.6 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+). Locked on 5.0 (6+) in October and November, Univision Radio rhythmic CHR KBBT “98.5 The Beat” (fourth to seventh, 6+) sputters by eight-tenths to 4.2, its lowest 6+-share since October 2016’s 4.0. Owing to a loss of six-tenths (6.2 – 5.6, 6+), regional Mexican cluster-mate KROM “Que Buena 92.9” shifts from second to third. As was the case in November, the market’s (6+) country share shrinks by eight-tenths as Cox Media Group-owned KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” regresses by one-half share (5.8 – 5.3, third to fourth, 6+), while iHeartMedia-owned KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” is off three-tenths (sixth to ninth, 6+). After surrendering one-half share in September, “Y-100” registered a +.9 in October. Prior to that sweep, “Y-100” had been within 5.1 – 5.8 range (6+) the previous 11 months; September’s 5.1 was its lowest 6+-share in almost five years (5.0, “Holiday” 2012). The -.5 in September ended three straight sweeps without a decrease that netted two-tenths (5.4 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+). This is the third month in a row that “KJ-97” is without an increase for an overall -.9 (5.0 – 5.0 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+), but in advance of the August ratings period, 
KAJA registered three consecutive uptrends for a collective gain of eight-tenths. In a bit of a statistical oddity, Alpha Media news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” and Cox Media Group classic country KKYX “Country Legends” have posted the same topline (6+) stat four months in a row: 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7 – 1.5. For KTSA, December’s -.2 ends four straight improvements that produced a +.7 since July (1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7, 6+), while the loss of two-tenths this sweep by KKYX halts six straight up or flat trends for an overall +.7 (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7, 6+).
4) Pittsburgh – On top for the ninth month in a row, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW “94.5 – 3WS” dials up a +2.0 (10.9 – 12.9, 6+) for its best 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016 (13.7). Last year at this time, “3WS” was 9.3 (December 
2016, 6+). After posting three consecutive increases for an overall +1.3 (9.1 – 9.9 – 10.3 – 10.4, 6+), WWSW forfeited eight-tenths in June. Two stations in this Pennsylvania market improve by +1.6 (November 2017 – December 2017, 6+): Steel City Media adult hits WRRK “Bob” (unchanged at #3, 6+) and Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WSHH “Today’s Wish 99.7” (sixth to fourth, 6+). “Bob” was locked on 7.4 (6+) in October and November; “Wish” was stuck on 5.7 (6+) in August and September and then on 5.2 (6+) in October and November. This is the sixth month in a row that iHeartMedia-owned rocker WDVE occupies the runner-up position. Flat at 9.2 (6+), WDVE was +1.6 in October and -1.0 in November. Its 10.2 in October marked the first time WDVE reached double-digits (6+) since March (10.4). Tied for #1 in June, WDVE halted three straight declines in October that accounted for a full-share loss (9.6 – 9.2 – 8.7 – 8.6, 6+); September’s 8.6 was its lowest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 8.4. Surrendering one full-share to 4.0, its lowest 6+-stat since April’s 3.9, Entercom-owned WDSY “Y-108 Pittsburgh’s Country” drops from eighth to a ninth-place tie. In an up/down pattern that started in June, “Y-108” is 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 4.0 (6+). An August loss of one-tenth snapped at three its consecutive string without a decrease that netted seven-tenths (3.9 – 4.4 – 4.4 – 4.6, 6+). Elsewhere in the format, iHeartMedia-owned WPGB “Big 104.7 – Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country” falters by a combined half share in November and December (3.3 – 3.0 – 2.8, flat at #12, 6+). A cumulative +.9 in June and July (2.9 – 3.5 – 3.8, 6+) and then a collective -.9 in August and September (3.8 – 3.7 – 2.9, 6+), “Big 104.7 gained four-tenths in October. Even though it forfeits all of November’s half-share gain and two-tenths more (4.7 – 4.0, -.7, 6+), alternative cluster-mate WXDX “105.9 The X” advances from tenth to a ninth-place tie; November’s 4.7 was the best 6+-stat for the Pittsburgh Penguins’ flagship since June’s 5.1. After registering a +1.0 in October, co-owned CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss FM – Pittsburgh’s #1 Music Station” erodes by a collective -1.4 in November and December (8.2 – 7.4 – 6.8, 6+), slipping from third to fourth. A +.2 in September concluded a string of three straight decreases that resulted in a -2.1 (9.1 – 8.7 – 7.6 – 7.0, 6+); December’s 6.8 is the lowest 6+-share for “Kiss” since 6.7 in the “Holiday” 2016 report. Sports talk sibling WBGG “ESPN Pittsburgh” is without an increase for the seventh month in a row (.3 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+) and slumps from #17 to #18.
5) Sacramento – On the strength of a +1.2 (7.6 – 8.8, 6+), Entercom adult contemporary KYMX not only has its best 6+-showing since May’s 9.2, “Mix 96 – Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites” advances from second to first. Displaced from the top spot after a five-month stay and taking over at #2 is co-owned KSEG “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s
Classic Rock,” which flounders by one full-share (8.4 – 7.4, 6+). The last time “The Eagle” was below a seven-share (6+) was in February (7.5); KSEG was a combined -1.6 in September and October (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.1, 6+). By gaining six-tenths (2.0 – 2.6, 6+), 
iHeartMedia’s KSTE “Talk 650” climbs from #17 to #15 and has its best 6+-stat since June (2.8). Netting one full-share in seven successive up or flat trends (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.6, 6+), Entercom’s KHTK “Sports 1140” carries on at #15 (where it is tied with KSTE). Five consecutive upticks by co-owned/similarly-formatted KIFM-AM netted a +1.4 (.8 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.6 – 2.2, 6+), but with December’s -.6 to 1.6 (#16 to #20, 6+), “ESPN Radio 1320” forfeits nearly have that bounty; KIFM-AM last reached the two-share level in November 2015 (2.0). Doubling its 6+-share (.5 – 1.0, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” checks in at #24. Fluctuating by at least one-half share in the past four sweeps, co-owned KLVB was -.5 in August; +.5 in September; +.5 in October; and -.8 in November (1.9 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 1.6, 6+). In December, Sacramento’s version of “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” adds three-tenths to 1.9 (#20 to #17, 6+). After tacking on one-half share in November to October’s +.6 (4.2 -4.8 – 5.3, 6+), California State University – Sacramento news/talk KXJZ “Capital Public Radio” relinquishes all but one-tenth of that combined +1.1 with a -1.0 to 4.3 (fourth to seventh, 6+); November’s 5.3 was its most potent 6+-stat in more than six years (5.3, June 2011). Anchored at #3,
iHeartMedia-owned KFBK “Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station” is without an increase for the third month in succession for an overall loss of seven-tenths (7.8 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 7.1 (6+). After three straight improvements netting a combined +1.3 (6.5 – 6.7 – 7.1 – 7.8, 6+), the news/talk hybrid regressed by three-tenths in October; September’s 7.8 was its strongest 6+-stat since February’s 8.2. In the last three sweeps, Entercom’s KNCI “New Country 105.1” has been -.9 (October); +.9 (November); and now -.5 in December (5.0 – 4.5, unchanged at #5, 6+). November’s increase halted three consecutive declines that accounted for a collective -1.9 (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.1, 6+). Prior to October, KNCI hadn’t been below a five-share (6+) since August 2016 (4.7). After losing more than 40% of its 6+-share (-1.3) in four straight sweeps without an increase (3.1 – 2.3 – 1.9 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KBEB “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country” picks up one-tenth to 1.9, inching up from #18 to #17 (6+). The market’s other FM country outlet – Entravision-owned KNTY “101.9 – The Wolf” – adds two-tenths to 2.8 and improves from #14 to #13. “The Wolf” was a combined -.4 in October and November (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.6, 6+). In October, it returned 60% of September’s one-half share gain. September’s +.5 suspended four straight decreases for an overall -.9 (3.4 – 3.3 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5, 6+).
6) Salt Lake City – No other station in the 36 PPM markets analyzed thus far has a greater (6+) November 2017 – December 2017 improvement and/or higher 6+ AQH share than Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI “FM 100.3 – Better 
Music Better Work Day” (7.0 – 13.6, +6.6, 6+). It repeats at #1 after a combined -.8 in October and November (7.8 – 7.3 – 7.0, 6+). “FM 100.3” has been #1 each month this calendar year except January, March, April, and October. By way of comparison, KSFI was 11.4 in December 2016. Two commercial news/talk outlets in the market account for a -1.7, a decrease nearly equally divided between KSFI
sibling KSL “NewsRadio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” (5.7, flat at #2, 6+) and iHeartMedia’s KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” (3.4, #8 to #11, 6+). Trending 3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.5 (June through October, 6+), KNRS 
was +.8 in November to 4.3. Meanwhile, KSL plummeted from 8.3 to 6.5 (October – November, 6+), moving to the runner-up slot after a one-month stay at #1. In addition, it ended three successive gains netting a cumulative +3.1 (5.2 – 5.8 – 6.9 – 8.3, 6+) with 8.3 its strongest 6+-share since January’s 8.9. Recent KSL fluctuations include +2.0 (October 2016), -.9 (November 2016), +1.1 (December 2016), -1.5 (“Holiday” 2016); +2.1 (January 2017); -2.1 (February 2017); +.6 (April 2017); -1.1 (May 2017); -.9 (July 2017); +.6 (August 2017); +1.1 (September 2017); +1.4 (October 2017); -1.8 (November 2017); and now -.8 in December 2017. An overall +1.9 in seven consecutive sweeps without a loss (3.9 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 5.0 – 5.6 – 5.8 – 5.8, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits” relinquishes more than half that increase with a -1.1 to 4.7 (third to fifth, 6+); November’s 5.8 was its highest 6+-share since June 2016’s 6.6. Climbing from #24 to #23,1980’s hits KSQN “103.1 The Wave – The Next Wave of New Wave” is up or flat for the seventh time in a row for a +.5 (.9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4, 6+). Steady at #21, sports talk KALL “ESPN 700” has more than quintupled its 6+-share in six successive gains (.3 – .4 – .5 – .9 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.6, #21, 6+). In three straight monthlies without a loss (June through September), iHeartMedia-owned CHR KZHT was a combined +1.5 (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 6.5, 6+), but “97.1 ZHT – Salt Lake’s #1 Hit Music Station” forfeits -1.8 in October, November, and December (6.5 – 6.0 – 5.4 – 4.7, fourth to fifth, 6+). Moreover, KZHT is below a five-share (6+) for the first time since April’s 4.9. Deflating by six-tenths each are Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted KENZ “Power 94.9 – Utah’s New Hit Music” (1.7, #17 to #18, 6+), which had been up or flat the past three sweeps for a +.2 (2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3, 6+), and co-owned country KUBL “K-Bull 93” (trending 4.7 – 4.3 – 4.7 – 4.1, seventh to eighth, 6+). The latter’s format competitor – Broadway Media’s KEGA “101.5 The Eagle – Utah’s Best Country” – is without an increase for the seventh straight time for a collective -.9 (2.0 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.1, 6+). This marks the 13th sweep in a row that iHeartMedia-owned KAAZ “Rock 106.7 – Everything That Rocks” is within 3.1 – 3.9 range (3.8 – 3.7, -.1, #11 to #9, 6+), while after 18 consecutive times within 2.0 – 2.8 range (6+), Broadway Media rhythmic CHR KUUU “U-92” drops four-tenths to 1.7 (#19 to a three-way tie at #18, 6+). Following six consecutive ratings periods of dialing up a .8 (6+), independent KSOP-AM “AM 1370 – Utah’s Home for Classic Country” falls to .6 but remains at #27 (6+).
7) Las Vegas – A +3.7 propels iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE from #2 to #1 as “Sunny 106.5” (6.9 – 10.6, 6+) is the first Las Vegas station to reach double-digits (6+) since it accomplished the feat in “Holiday” 2016 (14.0). A collective -2.7 in four straight (June through October) decreases (7.5 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 4.8, 6+), “Sunny” bounced back
in November with a +2.1. Recent fluctuations for “Sunny,” which had been on top between December 2016 and June 2017, are +1.8 in March; -1.1 in April; -1.2 in May; +1.4 in June; -.8 in July; -.7 in September; -.8 in October; +2.1 in November; and now +3.7 in December. Ousted from #1 after five straight months in the lead position and falling to second-place is Beasley Media Group-owned classic hits-oldies KKLZ “96.3 – 70s, 80s and More.” The last three fluctuations for KKLZ are: +1.0 (October); -.9 (November) and now -.7 in December (7.0 – 6.3, 6+). Without a loss for the third month in a row, Faith Communications contemporary Christian KSOS “SOS Radio – Right Song, Right Time” is an overall +.7 (3.9 – 3.9 – 4.2 – 4.6, fifth to fourth, 6+) and registers its strongest 6+-stat since September 2016’s 5.4. Two regional Mexican outlets improve by one-half share each: Entravision’s KQRT “La Tricolor 105.1” (1.8 – 2.3, #20 to #17, 6+) and Univision Radio-owned KISF “Zona MX 103.5” (1.7 – 2.2, #22 to #18, 6+). Owing to a -1.3 (5.4 – 4.1, fourth to fifth, 6+) iHeartMedia country KWNR “95.5 The Bull – Las Vegas New Country Leader” has its lowest 6+-stat since 3.6 in September 2016. Following five successive improvements for a net gain of +2.1 (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.7, 6+), Entercom hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1” returns roughly half that increase (5.6, -1.1, 6+) but remains in third-place for the fourth month in a row. In October, “Mix” reached the six-share level (6+) for the first time since December 2015’s 6.1. Flat at #6, Lotus Communications’ KXPT “97.1 The Point – #1 for Classic Rock” is a cumulative -1.3 in four successive down or flat trends (5.3 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+), while co-owned KOMP “92.3 The Rock Station” is off a total of six-tenths in three straight monthlies without an increase (3.5 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 2.9, #13 to #14, 6+). Via three downward trends in succession, Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KRGT “Latino Mix 99.3” has lost nearly half of its 6+-share (-1.5) and exits the top twenty (3.2 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 1.7, #17 to #21, 6+). Having posted five straight sweeps without a loss netting a +1.6 (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 3.1 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia adult hits KYMT “93.1 The Mountain – We Play Everything” stumbles by four-tenths to 3.3 (6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #12); 3.7 in November was its best 6+-showing since it flipped from CHR (KPLV) in September 2016. As the result of three (slight) decreases, Kemp Broadcasting rhythmic CHR KVEG “Hot 97.5” is down a collective four-tenths (3.0 – 2.9 – 2.8 – 2.6, flat at #16, 6+). In five downward moves in a row, University of Nevada-owned KUNC “91.5 The Source” has had its 6+-share sliced by more than 80% (2.5 – 1.2 – .8 – .7 – .6 – .4, #28, 6+).
8) Cincinnati – A cumulative +3.6 in four improvements in a row (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 7.5, 6+) enables Cumulus Media adult contemporary WRRM “Warm 98” to cruise from seventh to second with its best 6+-stat since 11.7 in 
“Holiday” 2016. While it repeats at #1, co-owned classic hits-oldies WGRR is off by six-tenths (9.1 – 8.5, 6+). A combined -1.4 in August and September (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.3, 6+), “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” rebounded with a combined +.8 in October and November (8.3 – 9.0 – 9.1, 6+). Also in that Cumulus Media cluster, classic rock WOFX “92.5 The Fox” falters by six-tenths (5.2 – 4.6, 6+) and segues from fifth to seventh. Following four sweeps in succession without a decrease for a +.6 (7.6 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 8.1 – 8.2, 6+), Hubbard’s WUBE “B-105.1 – Get Your Country On” spirals by -1.4 to 6.8, dropping from second to fourth (6+). November’s 8.2 was its highest 6+-share since October 2016’s 8.5; conversely, December’s 6.8 represents its lowest 6+-share since January (6.8, as well). Co-owned WYGY repeats November’s 1.1 (#20 to a tie at #19, 6+). This time last month, “97.3 The Wolf” ended four straight sweeps without an increase that resulted in a loss of nine-tenths (1.9 – 1.9 – 1.3 – 1.0 – 1.0, 6+). Elsewhere in the country format, Cumulus Media’s WNNF “94.1 Nash FM” (#17 to #15) regains the four-tenths it lost in November to end four downward or flat moves in succession for a collective -1.1 (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.8, 6+). Two iHeartMedia news/talkers
combine for a -1.5 (6+), with WLW accounting for a -.8 (flat at #3). Down for the fourth straight time for a collective -2.4 (9.6 – 9.4 – 9.2 – 8.0 – 7.2, 6+), WLW fell to #3 in November following three consecutive 
months at #1. “The Big One” returned to the top in August 2017 after back-to-back appearances at #2. Departing the top ten (#9 to #11), co-owned/similarly-formatted WKRC “55 KRC – The Talk Station in Cincinnati” regresses by seven-tenths to 3.5 (6+), thus ending at four its successive string of up or flat trends that netted nine-tenths since July (3.3 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+). Dipping from #15 to #16, Radio One urban-rhythmic oldies WDBZ “Soul 101.5” is a combined -.6 in November and December (2.4 – 2.3 – 1.8, 6+), immediately after five consecutive up or flat sweeps that produced a +1.0 (1.4 -1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.4, 6+). By dropping one-tenth to .6 (6+), iHeartMedia sports talk WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” curtails four straight improvements of one-tenth each (.3 – 4. – .5 – .6 – .7, #23 to a tie at #22, 6+).
9) Orlando – With an increase that more than triples November’s -1.3, iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF “Magic 107.7” (7.6 – 12.0, +4.4, 6+) storms from fourth to first with its strongest 6+-showing since “Holiday” 2016’s 16.1. At this time last year, “Magic” registered a 10.5 (6+, December 2016). Co-owned Spanish tropical WRUM “Rumba
100,” which is down one-tenth for the third time in a row (11.6 – 11.5 – 11.4 – 11.3, 6+), shifts to the runner-up slot after 11 consecutive months on top. It spiraled by two full-shares in July; was flat in August; and up nine-tenths in September. April’s 12.8 was the best-ever 6+-share in WRUM’s PPM-history. Albeit that it segues from second to third, CHR sibling WXXL “XL-106.7” is up or flat for the fourth time in a row (7.5 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2 – 8.2, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat since May’s 8.8. In October, “XL-106.7” pulled the plug on five straight monthlies without an increase that resulted in a -2.4 (9.9 – 8.8 – 8.1 – 7.8 – 7.5 – 7.5, 6+), a streak that followed a +2.7 as the result of four consecutive progressive trends (7.2 – 8.0 – 9.0 – 9.7 – 9.9, 6+). Off seven-tenths (5.1 – 4.4, 6+), cluster-mate WJRR “101.1 Orlando’s Rock Station” moves from seventh to eighth. Eroding by -1.9, Cox Media Group’s WMMO “98.9 Orlando’s Classic Hits” (8.1 – 6.2, third to fourth, 6+) is below a seven-share for the first time since March (6.8, 6+). Returning all of November’s +.6 plus three-tenths more, Entercom hot AC WOMX (5.5 – 4.6, -.9,) slips from fifth to seventh with its softest 6+-share since April 2015 
(4.6, as well). A collective +1.4 in three straight August through November up or flat trends (1.5 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” returns one-half share (2.4, -.5, 6+) and shifts from #14 to #15. Prior to August, WTKS notched six consecutive decreases that accounted for a -2.1 (3.6 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+). Off by 
one-half share as well but flat at #16 is Cox Media Group Spanish contemporary WCFB-HD2 (1.8 – 1.3, 6+). News/talk sibling WDBO-FM is a collective -2.1 in three straight decreases (6.1 – 5.1 – 4.2 – 4.0, 6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #11); WDBO-FM racked up a +2.0 in September. Immediately prior to an August gain of nine-tenths, WDBO-FM was -1.0 via three straight negative trends (4.2 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.2, 6+). Although remaining at #6, Entercom classic hits-oldies WOCL “105.9 Sunny FM” registers its fourth consecutive decrease and is a cumulative -1.8 since August (6.8 – 6.4 – 5.9 – 5.3 – 5.0, 6+). Co-owned WQMP is -1.3 in four losses in a row (4.3 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+) and carries on at #13; however, approximately three weeks into the December sweep (11/29), WQMP transitioned from CHR “Amp” to “Alt 101.9 – Orlando’s New Alternative.”
10) Cleveland – On the strength of a +2.3 to 7.2 (6+), Entercom adult contemporary WDOK not only vaults from tenth to fifth, “Cleveland’s Star 102” applies the brakes to three straight downward moves that accounted for a -1.1 (6.0 – 5.4 
– 5.1 – 4.9, 6+). This is the best 6+-showing for “Star” since its 10.4 in “Holiday” 2016. By picking up three-tenths (to 5.5, 6+), its hot AC cluster-mate WQAL cuts the cord on four negative trends in a row for an overall -1.8 (7.0 – 6.4 – 6.2 – 5.3 – 5.2, 6+); “Q-104 Plays The Hits” remains in eighth-place. Two-tenths from the top spot in November, WZAK tacks on nine-tenths to November’s +.5 and takes over at #1 (9.4, 6+). The Radio One urban AC had been in eight-share range in each of the last four sweeps (8.1 – 8.4 – 8.0 – 8.5, 6+). A loss of four-tenths in October ended three consecutive positive moves by WZAK for an overall +.9 (7.5 – 7.6 – 8.1 – 8.4, 6+). Removed from #1 (after a one-month stay) and falling to #2 is iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits,” which surrenders an eight-tenths gain in November and one-tenth more (8.7 – 7.8, -.9, 6+). November’s +.8 stopped three straight declines that resulted in a -1.3 (9.2 – 8.9 – 8.4 – 7.9, 6+). In 2017, “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” occupied the top spot from January through April; July (with a +1.1 to 9.2, its strongest 6+-share since 9.8 in “Holiday” 2016); August; September (tied with WZAK); and November. Recapturing 60% of November’s full-share loss, co-owned WMMS “100.7 – Cleveland’s Rock Station” (4.0 – 4.6, +.6, 6+) enters the top ten (#11 to #10). Meanwhile, the February through December topline 6+ pattern for alternative WMMS-HD2 is an ultra-steady 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .9 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0 – 1.1 – 1.0. Unchanged at #13, Ideastream-owned WCPN is an overall +1.5 in four straight upticks (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.9 – 3.2 – 3.6, 6+). Owing to a -1.1 (7.5 – 6.4, fourth to seventh, 6+), Entercom-owned WNCX “98.5 Cleveland’s Classic Rock” falls below a seven-share for the first time since February’s 6.8. Off by one-half share each are Radio One urban contemporary WENZ “Z-107.9” (6.7, flat at #6, 6+) and iHeartMedia CHR WAKS “96.5 Kiss FM – Cleveland’s #1 Hit Music Station” (5.0 – 4.5, #9 to #11, 6+). When “Z-107.9” improved by nine-tenths (to 7.2, 6+) in November, it crossed the seven-share level (6+) for the first time in its PPM-history. Following six straight down or flat sweeps that accounted for a combined +1.5 (5.3 – 5.4 – 5.8 – 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+), “Z-107.9” was off one-half share in October.
11) Kansas City – Aided by a +1.2 to 9.6, its strongest 6+-stat since July’s 10.3, Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX “The Fox” shifts from second to first, curtailing four straight down or flat sweeps that generated a -1.9 (10.3 – 8.7 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.4, 6+). Prior to November, “The Fox” occupied the penthouse for ten consecutive months. A -1.6 in August
halted five straight increases netting a +2.8 (7.5 – 8.5 – 8.7 – 9.4 – 10.3, 6+). That aforementioned July 10.3 marked only the fifth time that a Kansas City station registered double-digits (6+) in the PPM era. Even though it is up for the third sweep in a row for a collective +1.3 (7.7 – 8.0 – 8.8 – 9.0, 6+) and has its best 6+-showing since 10.3 in “Holiday” 2016, co-owned classic hits-oldies KCMO “94.9 – Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” moves from first to second. As the result of three increases in a row (4.0 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 5.3, 6+), Steel City Media adult contemporary KCKC “KC-102.1 Today’s Best Variety” (ninth to fifth) is an overall +1.3 and notches its best 6+-stat since its 7.0 in “Holiday” 2016. Progressing by eight-tenths each are its CHR cluster-mate KMXV “Mix 93.3 – Kansas City’s #1 Hit Music Station” (5.5 – 6.3, fourth to third, 6+) and Carter Broadcast Corporation urban contemporary KPRS “Hot 103 Jamz” (5.3 – 6.1, 6+). A November gain of seven-tenths by “Mix” stymied four losses in a row that accounted for a -1.0 (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.2 – 4.9 – 4.8, 6+); “Hot 103 Jamz” was up one-half share in November. The last time “Mix” reached the six-share level (6+) was nearly two years ago (6.4, January 2016). A collective +1.1 in four straight sweeps without a loss (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 5.0 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom’s KQRC “98.9 The Rock” carries on at #7; 5.0 in November and December represents its best 6+-share in more than two years (5.1, October 2015). After seven straight months at #3, Steel City Media’s KFKF “Country 94.1” falls to #6 and is a combined -1.8 in three straight negative moves (6.9 – 6.6 – 6.1 – 5.1, 6+). When “Country 94.1” lost three-tenths in October, it ended five straight increases that netted +1.3 (5.6 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.9, 6+). While unchanged at #8, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” is a collective +.5 in three straight up or flat trends (4.4 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.9, 6+) and has its best 6+-share since April 2015 (4.9, as well). Also in the country format, KFKF sibling KBEQ drops three-tenths to 3.9 (6+), suspending three upticks in a row that netted eight-tenths (3.4 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.2, 6+) as “Q-104 #1 for New Country” departs the top ten (#10 to #11). A loss of four-tenths in September by “Q-104” ended four successive sweeps without an increase for an overall -1.3 (4.7 – 4.4 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+). Off a cumulative full-share in three consecutive decreases (4.3 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.3, 6+), Entercom alternative KRBZ “96.5 The Buzz” dips from #11 to #14. A collective -2.9 in four straight decreases (4.4 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 2.1 – 1.5, 6+), co-owned KCSP slides from #19 to #20. Prior to this 
particular negative streak, “610 Sports Radio – Our Teams, Our Town” nearly quadrupled its 6+-share with a +3.2 in five consecutive up or flat trends (1.2 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.4, 6+); August’s 4.4 was its highest 6+-share since June 2016’s 4.7. Notwithstanding it loses four-tenths to 2.6 (6+) thus snapping at five its successive string of positive trends that doubled its 6+-stat (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+), Union Broadcasting’s similarly-programmed WHB “Sports Radio 810” climbs from #16 to #15. After posting a +.7 in November, University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KJNW “Life 88.5 – Kansas City Christian Radio” surrenders six-tenths (3.1 – 2.5, 6+), falling from #15 to #16.
12) Columbus – An increase of eight-tenths (5.1 – 5.9, steady at #6, 6+) takes Saga Communications adult contemporary WSNY “Sunny 95” to its strongest 6+-share since June’s 6.0. Taking positive spikes of six-tenths each 
are iHeartMedia adult hits WODC “93.3 The Bus” (5.4 – 6.0, steady at #5, 6+) and RadiOhio-owned WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” (5.6, unchanged at #7, 6+). After a -.6 in August, “93.3 The Bus” responded in September and October with a collective +1.9
(4.5 – 5.5 – 6.4, 6+), but was -1.0 in November. October’s 6.4 was the highest 6+-share for “The Bus” since “Holiday” 2016’s 11.1. When “The Fan” lost three-tenths in November to 5.0 (6+), it closed out three straight gains that produced a +3.4 (1.9 – 2.8 – 4.0 – 5.3, 6+). December’s 5.6 is its best 6+-performance since 5.9 in the “Holiday” 2016 report. Despite sputtering by one-half share to 11.3 (6+), iHeartMedia country outlet WCOL is #1 for the sixth straight time and has been in double-digits (6+) each sweep since June. Off a combined -1.5 in August and September, WCOL regained roughly half of that loss in October with a +.7, but lost one-tenth in November. In June and July, WCOL produced a +3.5 (9.2 – 10.6 – 12.7, 6+). July’s 12.7 was the highest 6+-share by any Columbus station since WCOL reached 12.9 in July 2015. It was +2.2 in January; -1.2 in February; +.8 in March; -1.3 in May; +1.4 in June; +2.1 in July; -.9 in August; -.6 in September; +.7 in October; and now -.5 in December. Without an increase for the fourth ratings period in a row for a collective -1.6 (10.8 – 10.8 – 10.7 – 9.5 – 9.2, 6+), CHR cluster-mate WNCI “97.9 – Columbus’ Hit Music Station and #1 for New Music” nonetheless remains in the runner-up slot. Faltering by one-half share as well and returning roughly one-third of November’s gigantic +1.6 is Saga Communications’ WNND “Rewind – Columbus’ Greatest Hits” (3.6 – 3.1, #9 to #11, 6+). Prior to reaching 3.6 in November, “Rewind” had been within 2.0 – 2.9 territory (6+) in each of the previous ten ratings periods. There are more big ups/downs for co-owned WLVQ “Iconic Rock Q-FM 96,” which was -1.7 in August and September (7.5 – 6.1 – 5.8, 6+); bounced back with a combined +1.7 in October and November (5.8 – 6.3 – 7.5,); and is now -1.3 in December (6.2, 6+), but remains in third-place. Off eight-tenths (4.0 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WZCB “106.7 The Beat – Columbus’ Real Hip-
Hop and R&B” records its lowest 6+-share since July (3.2, as well) and slips from eighth to tenth. As a result of a -.3 to 6.2 (6+), news/talk sibling WTVN halts three straight up-trends that netted eight-tenths (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.5, 6+), but “NewsRadio 610” actually inches up from fourth to third. Steady at #16, Ohio State University’s WOSA “Classical 101” is off one-tenth to .9, curtailing three straight up or flat moves that generated six-tenths (.4 – .4 – .5 – 1.0, 6+). Registering its fifth straight negative trend for a combined -1.4 since July (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 3.0, 6+), Radio One rhythmic CHR WCKX “Power 107.5” slips from #11 to #12. Co-owned urban AC WXMG “Magic 95.5 – Columbus’ Best R&B,” however, picks up one-tenth (2.4, flat at #14, 6+) thus pulling the plug on six straight sweeps without an increase for a collective -.5 (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3, 6+).
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
John Hancock Signs New Deal with WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte. Afternoon drive personality John Hancock signs a multi-year contract extension with Entercom’s
news/talk WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte. Hancock began his career at WBT in 1990. Over the course of those 27 years, he’s broadcast on almost every daypart on the station. Earlier this year, he was inducted into the “WBT Hall of Fame” and carries the distinction as the only Hall of Fame member who is still actively broadcasting. Entercom Charlotte VP and market manager Matt Hanlon states, “John represents one of the most unique radio personalities in America today. He’s a WBT Hall of Famer and still delivers a contemporary message every day that the listeners can count on.”
iHeartMedia Third Quarter Radio Revenue Basically Flat. Reporting 2017 third quarter financial numbers, iHeartMedia’s consolidated revenue was down 1.9% compared to the same period in 2016. But the radio division was up a hair — $2.4 million or 0.3% — compared to the third quarter of 2016. For the first nine months 
of 2017, the radio division is up 1.5%. COO and CFO Rich Bressler notes that the positive figure for the radio division extends “year-over-year revenue growth to eighteen consecutive quarters.” Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman states, “As a true multi-platform, 21st-century media company, we continue to expand the innovative ways for us to engage consumers and to reinvent how we do business with our advertising and marketing partners. At our iHeartMedia business, in addition to building out a data-first programmatic advertising platform, we are continually growing our content offerings, including iHeartRadio’s podcast platform, with virtually all of the top 200 U.S. podcasts.”
Salem Media Group Q3 Broadcast Revenue Dips 5.1%. For the third quarter of 2017, Salem Media Group reports total revenue decreased by 8.2% to $65.4 million
from $71.3 million during the same period in 2016. Breaking down the company by segments, net broadcast revenue was $48.4 million, a decrease of 5.1% from $51.1 million in 2016. Digital media revenue decreased 12.9% to $10.4 million from $12.0 million the year prior. Salem’s publishing revenue was down 20.2% to $6.6 million from $8.2 million in Q3 of 2016.
Saga Reports Revenue Increase in Third Quarter. Reporting third quarter financials, Saga Communications says net revenue was up 1.3% to $30.3 million compared to the same quarter a year ago. Station operating expense 
was flat compared to Q3 2016 at $21.8 million and operating income was $5.5 million compared to $6.8 million for the same period last year, with the reduction primarily due to a gain of $1.4 million recognized from the sale of one of the company’s towers in Norfolk, Virginia during the third quarter last year. On a same-station basis, net revenue declined 1.1% to $29.6 million.
PPM Analysis: Public News/Talk. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents the first of four reports on the performances of stations based on data from the October 2017 PPM survey from Nielsen Audio. Today, Kinosian reports on public news/talk radio. He says, “Almost half the stations on this public news/talk panel improve September 2017 – October 2017 (47%, 6+) while roughly one of every three is down (34%); the remaining 19% of the sample remains flat (6+).” When comparing 6+ numbers year-over-year, “Not quite two of every three stations from our eligible public news/talk sample are up (63%,), meanwhile, approximately one in four (27%) decline; the remaining 10% are unchanged.” Ten public radio news/talk stations ranked in the top five in their respective markets in October and two ranked #1. KQED hit the #1 spot in both the San Francisco and San Jose markets while KUOW was #1 in Seattle. See Kinosian’s complete report here.
Virginia and New Jersey Gubernatorial Elections, Trump China Visit, North Korea Nuclear Tensions, Texas Church Massacre Aftermath, Trump-Russia Investigation, Saudi Arabia-Iran Conflict, Sexual Assault Cases, NBA Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/7). Yesterday’s gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey; President Trump’s visit to China; the ongoing nuclear tensions between North Korea and the U.S.; the aftermath of the church shooting in Texas that claimed the lives of 26; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between the Trump campaign and Russian agents; Saudi Arabia’s claim Iran fired a missile at Riyadh from Yemen; the sexual assault case of actor Kevin Spacey and the report of Harvey Weinstein’s hiring spies to track actresses and journalists; and NBA action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Bohannon Visits Janesville Affiliate. Pictured above is Westwood One syndicated late-night personality Jim Bohannon (left), Mark Finnegan of the veteran’s organizations Vetsroll.org (center), and Tim Bremel, operations manager and host of “Your Talk Show” on WCLO Janesville, Wisconsin at a remote broadcast at a Culver’s Restaurant. WCLO is an affiliate of Bohannon’s program.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Reno radio pro “Big Chris” Hart is named program director at Cumulus Media’s classic hip hop KNEV, Reno “95.5 The Vibe.” Hart previously served in the market
programming and serving on at KWFP and, before that, working at KUUB. Hart says, “This is one of those opportunities that you dream about in this business. I’ve competed against and known the Cumulus team in Reno for 17 years. Now, it’s my distinct pleasure to be joining the best team around and do some great, fun, plain ol’ kick-butt radio with Cumulus, KNEV and the good people of the greatest market in the universe, Reno!”…..Premiere Networks’ “The Woody Show’ is joining the American Forces Network beginning Monday (11/13). The KYSR, Los Angeles “Alt 98.7”-based Woody Show will be added to the lineup on the AFN alternative music channel…..iHeartCountry and Premiere Networks are presenting multi-platform coverage of tonight’s “The 51st Annual CMA Awards.” In addition to carrying the ABC-TV telecast audio across the 80-some iHeartCountry radio stations, for the first time, iHeartCountry will, among other things, present a Facebook live broadcast of the red carpet arrivals hosted by award-winning radio and CMT personality Cody Alan.
Monday, October 9, 2017
Moskowitz, Siegel Named VP/Sales for iHM New York. The appointment of Todd Moskowitz as vice president of sales of iHeartMedia New York 
City news/talk WOR “The Voice of New York” and the promotion of Marc Siegel from sales manager to VP/Sales of co-owned WAXQ “Q-104.3 New York’s Classic Rock Station” are effective immediately. Both will report to senior vice president of sales for iHeartMedia New York Bernie Weiss who states, “Marc and Todd are proven sales leaders with a long track record of delivering results for clients, teams and stations. They have the talent and experience to coach their teams in coming up with the most effective marketing solutions to maximize the ROI for their clients.” Moskowitz remarks, “I am excited to lead sales for one the most legendary radio stations in New York City and work with some of the best and brightest people in our business.” Siegel comments, “Classic rock is a format that transcends time and is as popular as it has ever been. I am very excited for this opportunity and I look forward to the next step in the journey with my iHeartMedia colleagues.” Moskowitz most recently was market president for Townsquare Media’s Danbury, Connecticut cluster. He began his career with CBS Radio Hartford, before joining Cumulus Media Bridgeport, Connecticut and eventually CBS Radio New York City all-news WINS. Before arriving at iHeartMedia New York at the end of 2016, Siegel was head of global audio sales at Bloomberg Media, and was local sales manager for New York public outlet WNYC, where he managed radio, podcasting, digital, and events sales.
TALKERS Founder Michael Harrison Guests on Debut Holland Cooke Show on RT America. Says Donald Trump Has Been A Boon to Talk Media Business. As reported last week in TALKERS, noted media consultant and TALKERS correspondent Holland Cooke was named to fill the big shoes of Thom Hartmann as host of television network RT America’s long-running “The Big Picture” program. His debut installment of the half hour weekend show aired this past Friday (10/6) and is being met with positive reviews. Cooke divides the opening show into two segments. In the first, he welcomes panelists Brian Keane and Harvey Wasserman to discuss renewable energy… which could be the silver lining as Puerto Rico recovers from Hurricane Maria. And in the second segment, he asks TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison and talk media pundit Steve Malzberg, “Are we really THAT angry?” referring to the tone of today’s conversation in talk media. Asked if Donald Trump is the best thing that could happen to talk radio and television, Harrison replies, “From a purely business standpoint – getting ratings, giving us material to use, creating interest, keeping people tuned to their radios and TVs – he’s the best thing that’s happened in years. I don’t remember anything like it.” To view the entire program, please click here.
Sirott Selected to Call Bruins Action. Inbound from Tribune Chicago news/talk WGN-AM, where he was studio host for the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks, Judd Sirott becomes the game caller for the Boston Bruins, whose NHL games are carried on CBS Radio Boston sports talk WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub.” CBS Radio Boston vice president of programming/CBS Radio vice president of sports programming Mike
Thomas comments, “We are very excited to have someone with the exceptional reputation and experience that Judd has join our team at ‘The Sports Hub.’” Sirott adds, “I am incredibly fortunate, privileged, and humbled to be the radio voice of the Boston Bruins on ‘98.5 The Sports Hub.’ I didn’t just hit the lottery – I hit the Powerball. [The Bruins are] an ‘Original Six’ [NHL] team in a spectacular hockey market and one of the world’s greatest cities.” He succeeds Dave Goucher, who left last summer to become the television play-by-play voice for the Vegas Golden Knights, and joins analyst Bob Beers. An interesting note about Bruins’ radio play-by-play announcers: The only ones serving in that capacity going back to 1924 are Frank Ryan (28 years); Bob Wilson (25.5 years); Goucher (16 years); Fred Cusick (13 years); Bob Neumeier (five years); Bill Harrington (three years); Jim Laing (one year); and Dale Arnold (one-half year).
Cumulus DC Combo Arranges Blood Drive for Vegas Shooting Victims. Coordinated by Cumulus Media Washington D.C. news/talk and hot AC cluster-mates WMAL “Where Washington Comes to Talk” and WRQX “Mix 107.3,” the “Vegas Victims’ Blood Drive” will be held this Wednesday (10/11) from 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner in suburban Washington D.C. 
(McLean, Virginia). WMAL program director Bill Hess states, “The injured – including some from our area – face a lengthy recovery. This is one thing we can come together and do to help in our own individual way. We invite our friends and listeners to roll up their sleeves and join us in this effort.” WRQX program director Rob Roberts notes, “Distance doesn’t lessen the impact of what happened in Las Vegas. This is our chance to help someone and it costs nothing but a little time. We’re proud to do our part.” On a side note, “Mix” assistant program director/music director/mid-day talent Ashley Nickels is a Las Vegas native. Excluding the shooter, 58 people were killed last Sunday night (10/1) in Las Vegas. The dead included 36 women and 22 men; the oldest was 67, the youngest 20. Six of the dead were from Nevada, 35 from California, 13 from other states, and 4 from Canada. An additional 489 people were injured. The attack became the deadliest mass shooting committed by an individual in the United States, having surpassed the death toll of the 2016 Orlando nightclub shooting, where 50 died, including the gunman.
Broadcast Station Mergers, Acquisitions Hit $4.47 billion in Q2. The top radio deal was the $82.8 million sale of
Emmis Communications’ Los Angeles rhythmic CHR KPWR “Power 106” to Meruelo Media. According to estimates from Kagan, a media research group within S&P Global Market Intelligence, the transaction was the largest single radio station sale since 2012 and represents nearly 34% of the quarter’s $245 million radio deal total. The second-largest radio transaction was the radio portion of 
Sinclair’s acquisition of Tribune Media with an estimated value of $58.4 million for news/talk WGN-AM, Chicago and the programming of one additional FM station. That was followed by Educational Media Foundation‘s purchase of three FMs from Entercom for $57.5 million – classic rock KSWD “100.3 The Sound,” Los Angeles; KSOQ-FM, which simulcasts KSON-FM “New Country,” San Diego; and WGGI, which simulcasts WGGY “Today’s Best Country – Froggy,” Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Next was the sale of four Alpha Media AM stations, 14 FM outlets, and two FM translators to Dick Broadcasting Company for $19.5 million. Saga Communications sold its six-remaining owned-and-operated television stations and three LMAs to Morgan Murphy Media for $66.6 million, while at the same time, expanded its radio business with the third-largest radio deal of the quarter, paying $23 million to Apex Media for seven FM stations, one AM, and four translators.
Levy Exits KJR-AM. Related to his August 26 arrest for soliciting a prostitute, KJR-AM morning show host Mitch Levy departs the iHeartMedia Seattle sports talk outlet after a 23-year tenure there. According to a report in The Seattle Times, Levy entered which is known as an “Alford plea,” an acknowledgment of enough evidence for conviction without a formal guilty plea. He was sentenced to two years of probation plus a deferred sentence that will be dismissed if he completes probation without being charged with another crime. Levy was one of 110 men arrested in an undercover operation called “Operation on Demand.” The 50-year-old Levy reportedly placed $160 in cash on a bedside table in anticipation of a half-hour of sex. On Twitter, he wrote, “As most of you realize by now, my 23-year tenure at KJR is over. I am fully aware that I have disappointed so many from the loved ones closest to me to all of you who have given me the opportunity to entertain you on weekday mornings. I’m deeply sorry. I’d like to thank KJR and iHeartMedia for the golden opportunity that was never taken for granted. Now, I must continue tending to me, my emotional demons and my family. Some day I hope you’ll allow me the opportunity to earn back your trust and respect.”
CPR’s Wycisk Sets Retirement Plans. It won’t become effective for another eight months, but 40-year Colorado
Public Radio (CPR) president Max Wycisk is announcing he will retire on June 30 (2018). Board chair Dean Salter remarks, “On behalf of the CPR board of directors, we thank Max for his service and for the many notable accomplishments achieved during his tenure. Max is recognized as a 
pioneer in public broadcasting and his vision set CPR on the path to its current success. He leaves one of the strongest public radio organizations in the country with a sound financial base, a talented and committed staff, and loyal listeners. We look forward to an orderly transition to ensure the continued success of CPR.” According to Wycisk, “While the world has undoubtedly changed over the past 40 years, CPR’s mission has remained steadfast and our importance has grown. The organization is stronger than it has ever been – a testament to our dedicated staff, the donors who support us, and the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on us each and every day. It has been an honor to lead the development of a vital community resource that’s uniquely positioned to have an even greater future ahead.” Prior to becoming CPR’s president, Wycisk was a program director and an on-air announcer there. Among other things, he is responsible for transforming CPR from a single-signal station to a statewide network, which includes CPR News, CPR Classical, and CPR’s triple A Open Air, which are broadcast on 34 statewide signals and online.
WGN Slots Chicago Inno Tech Briefs. Starting today (10/9), Tribune Chicago news/talk WGN-AM adds “The Inno Minute,” a 60-second breakdown of Chicago’s top tech news. Airing weekdays in the 5:00 am hour on “The Opening Bell with Steve Grzanich,” the segment is a snapshot of topics covered at ChicagoInno.com. WGN-AM vice president of programming & content Todd Manley notes, “The stories that the team at Chicago Inno chases and shares are so powerful we wanted them on WGN every day.” Reporter Katherine Davis and Chicago Inno associate editor Jim Dallke will serve as producers. “Chicago Inno is incredibly excited to be working with WGN radio on ‘The Inno Minute,’” Dallke comments. “Chicago’s entrepreneurship scene is thriving, and we are thrilled to be able to work with WGN to inform Chicagoans on the innovation that is driving the city forward.” Elsewhere on the station, former Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka will appear for football commentary each Monday in morning drive with Steve Cochran and every Friday with afternoon driver Roe Conn. Ditka formerly had a similar radio arrangement in the market on WMVP “ESPN 1000.”
Salem Talk Hosts Headed Back to the White House. Approximately two and a half months ago (7/25), Salem Radio Network talk hosts Mike Gallagher and Hugh Hewitt conducted day-long 
broadcasts from the White House. The two will return to the Nation’s Capital next Tuesday (10/17) for live “Tax Reform Day” broadcasts from the White House. Hewitt (right) and Salem Radio Network vice president of news & talk programming Tom Tradup are planning for invited guests including treasury secretary Steve Mnuchin and commerce secretary Wilbur Ross, as well as other senior White House and administration staff.
Cavaliers, Monsters, iHM Cleveland Sign Multi-Year Extensions. As part of the new pact, all 82 regular-season contests, as well as five preseason and all playoff games of the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers will air on iHeartMedia 
Cleveland news/talk WTAM and co-owned rocker WMMS. In addition to these two flagships, the Cavs are on a 30-station radio network. John Michael returns for his seventh season as the franchise’s play-by-play announcer, while Jim Chones is back for his eighth year as analyst. The Cavs have reached an extended agreement with Murray Hill Broadcasting to continue broadcasting all of its games in Spanish. Meanwhile, for the second consecutive year, all 76 regular-season games of the AHL Cleveland Monsters will be broadcast on iHeartMedia Cleveland alternative WMMS-HD2. Tony Brown returns for his third season as the radio and television play-by-play voice of the Monsters. Brown spent two years in the NAHL as the voice of the Odessa Jackalopes; one season in the USHL with the Omaha Lancers; became the radio voice of the Indy Fuel in the ECHL; and then came to the Monsters in their Calder Cup-winning season of 2015-2016.
Osgood As It Gets. The longtime host of Westwood One’s “The Osgood File” – Charles Osgood – was presented with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” last night (Sunday, 10/8) from the News and Documentary Emmys. Celebrating with Osgood (in the center with his trademark bowtie) backstage were his family and colleagues, including Westwood One executive vice president of news and talk Bart Tessler, and senior vice president of Affiliate Sales Dennis Green.
TALKERS News Notes. Fill-in host Rob Carson – who will be on iHeartMedia Phoenix news/talk KFYI and CBS Radio Las Vegas’ similarly-formatted KNXT next week – recently joined the conservative-leaning LibertyOne TV/video podcasting network and he explains, “My experience as an audio/video podcaster and live Facebook/YouTube podcaster is propelling my career forward in many ways. I hope to consult talk hosts about the new digital platforms. I’ve only been on for two weeks and my LibertyOneTV.com show attracted 18,000 viewers last Friday [10/6]. After two months, my daily podcast on PodcastRadioNetwork.com is their second-biggest podcast. This journey beyond terrestrial radio is incredible.” ….. The appointment of Karen Wishart as an Urban One executive vice president 
becomes official on January 1, 2018, when she replaces Linda Vilardo as chief administrative officer. In the meantime, those two will work together to transition Vilardo’s duties. According to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Wishart will be paid a base salary of $425,000 with an opportunity to make up to $150,000 in bonuses ….. The official charity of iHeartMedia Des Moines news/talk WHO afternoon drive talent Simon Conway is The Puppy Jake Foundation, which acquires, raises, and trains service dogs for physically and mentally wounded veterans. Last Friday (10/6), the fourth annual, two-hour free sandwich giveaway to benefit The Puppy Jake Foundation raised more than $28,500. The event brought in $4,000 in year one; $6,000 the second year; and $23,000 last year. Conway remarks, “People drove long distances and handed over huge sums of money. My show’s sponsors stepped up too, one of them called in and doubled his initial $1,000 donation.” Over 200 pounds of meat, buns, and sauce were all donated. So far, 22 service dogs have been provided to veterans; five more dogs will graduate the program in March ….. As of next Monday (10/16), Genesee Media Brockport-Rochester, New York sports talk WRSB “97.5 The Team” will transition to Spanish variety as “Mi 97.5.”
Delilah Taking Leave of Absence Following Her Son’s Suicide. On Saturday (10/7), the 7:00 pm – 12:00 midnight host posted on Facebook about the suicide, which occurred early Tuesday morning (October 3). “I will be absent from the radio and on social media for a time as I grieve and try to process this loss with my family,” Delilah (Rene) wrote as she grieves the loss of her teenage son Zachariah, 
who battled a long bout against depression. In what reportedly will be the only statement at this time by the Premiere Networks’ personality, Delilah states, “My dear friends, I need to share some devastating news with you. My son, Zachariah, took his life. He was being treated, counseled, and embraced fiercely by family and friends while battling depression. My heart is broken beyond repair and I cannot fathom how to go on, but I have to believe he is at peace with the Lord and that God will get us through. We will be playing some of my favorite shows from the recent past. I’ll look forward to my return, as you all lift me up so very much. Please pray for my beloved Zacky, and I will pray for all suffering from this debilitating disease called depression.” In a Facebook post earlier this year, Delilah revealed that Zack was autistic. The mother of 13 children, including ten she adopted, Delilah previously lost a son, Sammy, who died in 2012 from complications of sickle-cell anemia. According to The New York Daily News, Sammy’s death came two years after he was adopted from a Ghanaian refugee camp in West Africa. Delilah’s nightly show is heard on 180 (mainly adult contemporary) stations and on the American Forces Network. She was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Broadcasting Hall of Fame in April, following her November 2016 induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame. Delilah has updated her Facebook home page to include the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), which offers free, 24-hour emotional support for people in distress, as well as resources that provide aid.
iHeartMedia Philadelphia Taking Bids to Beat Breast Cancer. The cluster is doing so in its annual “Bid for Breast Cancer” fundraiser to benefit the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). It begins today (10/9) and will include an auction through next Monday (10/16). According to iHeartMedia Philadelphia vice president of programming Brian Check, “We have again pulled together all the resources of our six stations to collect one-of-a-kind autographed items to benefit a cause that affects many women in our community. AACR is known for bringing together the greatest minds in cancer research and helping patients worldwide, as well as right here in the Philadelphia area.” AACR Foundation executive director Mitch Stoller explains that this year, “More than 300,000 women will hear the words, ‘You have breast cancer.’ The AACR’s mission is to prevent and cure all cancers, including breast cancer which is the second-most common cause of cancer-related death among women in the United States. We are grateful to iHeartMedia Philadelphia and the community for their support in this ‘Bid for Breast Cancer.’ Proceeds will enable the AACR to fund groundbreaking cancer research that will lead to more cancer discoveries, saving more lives.” Auction items include an Ed Sheeran-autographed guitar; a guitar autographed by Brad Paisley; a Green Day-autographed guitar; jacket autographed by Bruno Mars; Rolling Stone Magazine autographed by Harry Styles; and a Red Hot Chili Peppers-autographed guitar. In a similar “Bid for Breast Cancer” event last year, iHeartMedia Philadelphia raised over $15,000.
Chicago’s “B-96” Reveals “Jingle Bash” Lineup. The 18th annual Pepsi “Jingle Bash” from CBS Radio Chicago CHR
WBBM-FM “B-96” is roughly two months away (12/7) and will be headlined by Taylor Swift, along with Backstreet Boys, Fifth Harmony, Khalid, Logic, and Sabrina Carpenter. Vice president of programming for CBS Radio Chicago/WBBM-FM program director Todd Cavanah states that the “B-96” “Jingle Bash” has been a “must-see holiday event in Chicago for almost two decades. This year, we are thrilled to have the world’s biggest superstar – Taylor Swift – as our headliner. In the holiday season, the ‘Jingle Bash’ is a wonderful way for our community to come together and celebrate an exceptional night of pop music.” Breaking the news on-air was “B-96” afternoon air talent “Tyler.” The station’s December 7 “Jingle Bash” will be held in Rosemont (Illinois) at the Allstate Arena. In other station concert news, Emmis New York rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” will present “Hot for the Holidays” on December 14 at the Prudential Center. Scheduled to appear are Chris Brown, 21 Savage, Meek Mill, Cardi B, and Dave East & Tee Grizzley. Meanwhile, CBS Radio San Francisco CHR KMVQ “99.7 Now” will have Taylor Swift headline its December 2 “Poptopia” concert at San Jose’s Sap Center. Slated to perform as well are Ed Sheeran, The Chainsmokers, Fifth Harmony, Niall Horan, Khalid, Logic, and Dua Lipa.
WDVE Radio-thon Raises $814,000. Easily surpassing last year’s total of $605,000, iHeartMedia Pittsburgh’s WDVE “102.5 Rocks” raised just over $814,000 during the tenth annual “DVE Rocks for Children’s Radio-thon.” The beneficiary is Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation, which is the fundraising arm of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. WDVE morning show personalities Randy Baumann, Bill Crawford, Val Porter, and Mike Prisuta, as well as Michele Michaels and Sean McDowell, shared stories from patients, families, and staff from Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh during the two-day radio-thon. Market president for iHeartMedia Pittsburgh – West Virginia Tim McAleer comments, “The ‘DVE Rocks for Children’s Radio-thon’ continues to exceed our expectations. WDVE has terrific listeners who rally for the kids. I am in awe of the dedication and efforts of our on-air talents to raise funds for the children in our Pittsburgh community.” Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation president Greg Barrett adds, “It is truly unbelievable to witness the generosity of WDVE, their loyal listeners, the corporate sponsors and partners, and this amazing Pittsburgh community who have supported the radio-thon over the past ten years. Without this remarkable support each and every year, providing this level of expert, compassionate care to our patients and their families simply would not be possible.” Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, comedian Billy Gardell (“Mike & Molly”), and WWE chief brand officer Stephanie McMahon made donations by phone. The “DVE Rocks for Children’s Radio-thon” has raised nearly $5 million to benefit Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, leading provider of pediatric care in the Pittsburgh community.
Duran Supports Third Annual “Carney Awards.” A joint production between The Elvis Duran Group and Radcliffe Road Pictures, the third annual “Carney Awards” will be held in approximately three weeks (10/29) at Santa Monica’s Broad Stage. Named in honor of the Oscar and six-time Emmy winning actor Art Carney, the Carney Awards were created by Elvis Duran Group CEO David Katz, his brother – 
Emmy-winning producer Jim Katz, and Carney’s son – actor voice-over artist, Brian Carney. Duran is morning personality on iHeartMedia New York CHR WHTZ “Z-100” and syndicated by Premiere Networks. “I never understood why the hardest-working actors in Hollywood were almost always excluded from receiving awards and recognition for the great work that they do,” Duran comments. “We created the Carney Awards to rectify that injustice. Character actors are the backbone of almost every movie and television show ever made. It’s time for them to get the recognition they so deserve. I don’t want people pointing anymore saying ‘Hey, it’s that guy.’” David Katz notes, “Elvis is the first to admit that his co-hosts are the backbone of his radio show. Our desire to celebrate those in supporting roles has picked up great momentum and has caught the attention of Hollywood, which is always good for radio.” This year’s honorees are Xander Berkeley, William Fichtner, Richard Kind, William H. Macy, and Wendie Malick. Past honorees include Bob Balaban, Steve Buscemi, Gary Cole, Conchata Ferrell, Dan Hedaya, and David Paymer. Tom Bergeron of ABC-TV’s “Dancing with the Stars” will host the awards program. Tickets are complimentary to radio industry members.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. The guest emcee at the 73rd annual Congressional Correspondents Dinner in just over two weeks 
(10/25) at the National Building Museum will be Bobby Bones, whose eponymous weekday morning show originating from iHeartMedia Nashville’s country WSIX-FM is heard on more than 100 affiliates. In addition to his Monday through Friday Premiere Networks’ syndicated morning program, Bones hosts a weekend “Country Top 30” countdown and authored “Bare Bones: I’m Not Lonely If You’re Reading This Book.” The event’s headline entertainer will be “Daily Show with Trevor Noah” correspondent Roy Wood, Jr.; house speaker Paul Ryan will deliver keynote remarks ….. General sales manager of iHeartMedia Pittsburgh classic rock WDVE and country WPGB “Big 104.7” Bobbie Loesch is promoted to regional senior vice president of sales for the Pittsburgh-West Virginia region. The company’s region president Tim McAleer remarks, “Bobbie’s extensive experience in our region makes her the perfect fit to oversee sales for our robust media and entertainment assets. We are lucky to have her; she is an expert at multiplatform sales and consistently helps our partners reach their goals.” Loesch – who begins her new duties next Monday (10/16) – adds, “I have worked with the iHeartMedia Pittsburgh team for over a decade, so I am excited to lead such a talented group. It is great that we are such a tight-knit team and that we are all passionate about helping our partners succeed.” ….. Starting next Monday (10/16), Cameron Moore takes over 10:00 am – 3:00 pm duties on Beasley Media Group Charlotte CHR WNKS “Kiss 95.1.” Operations manager/program director John Reynolds comments, “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Cameron to Beasley’s Charlotte team. [Her] expanded experience in every aspect of radio programming will help ‘Kiss’ continue the solid growth we have been having all year. Cameron is a great example of our goal to mentor and groom excellent talent within our company.” Moore adds, “It is an honor to be part of the ‘Kiss’ team. I look forward to playing all of the hottest hit music and getting out on the streets to meet all of [our] loyal listeners.” Winston-Salem native Moore most recently worked at Midwest Family Broadcasting’s Springfield, Missouri cluster ….. The yearly signature event for CBS Radio Chicago triple A WXRT “93-XRT” is its Goose Island Holiday Jam. The ninth such event will feature performances by Spoon with special guest Real Estate and takes place in two months (12/10) at the Chicago Theatre. WXRT program director and operations manager Greg Solk explains, “The WXRT Goose Island Holiday Jam was created to showcase some of the most dynamic talents around, and to offer a memorable annual holiday event for Chicago music fans. This year’s fabulous double bill of Spoon and Real Estate will certainly accomplish that goal.” ….. As of today (10/9), 2016 Texas Radio Hall of Fame inductee Gary Lee Love joins John Walton classic country KXXF “105.3 Free,” Beaumont (Texas) for afternoon drive duties. Station owner John Walton states, “It is quite a coup for [us] to acquire a partnership with the Gary Lee Love Show. Gary is a bigger-than-life personality who is a household name in Southeast Texas and a great entertainer. Love most recently did a similar shift on cross-town Cumulus Media-owned KAYD “Nash-FM.”
Hundreds Attend “The House FM” and “My Praise FM” Kid DJ Day. The sixth annual “Kid DJ Day” was held over a week ago (9/30) at the 89.7 “The House FM Where Christian Hits Live” and 88.7 “My Praise FM” studios. More than 550 Kid DJs and 888 total family members attended the free event. “The House FM” and “My Praise FM” founder and chief executive officer Doyle Brewer remarks, “We had such a great day hosting 888 guests. The families were making such great memories with the petting zoo and so many other activities. Our ministry has always been focused on supporting families on the air with our programming and any other way we can.” Kids were invited to be DJs for a day, receiving a tour of the radio station and having a turn on-air. They were asked to discuss a variety of different topics, prompted by the DJ; parents received an email recording of their child’s on-air time. Listener-supported Christian radio network “The House FM” broadcasts from Oklahoma City to Wichita; sister network “My Praise FM” broadcasts in northern Oklahoma and southern Kansas.
Austin’s September 2017 Report to be Re-Released. Owing to audience estimates being inadvertently omitted for Austin subscribing HD-multicast KKMJ-HD3, Nielsen Audio will issue a revised September 2017 PPM ratings report for that Texas market this Wednesday (10/11) at 12:00 noon. Reporting for Entercom urban AC KKMJ-HD3 apparently had not been entered into one of Nielsen Audio’s internal systems. Audience estimates for other Austin stations will reportedly not be affected. Prior to August’s +.1 to 1.6 (#19, 6+), KKMJ-HD3 hadn’t had an increase in five consecutive sweeps for a net loss of nine-tenths (2.4 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 1.7 – 1.5, 6+) but disappeared from print in the September sweep that was released last week.
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Cumulus Media’s Second Quarter Net Revenue Up 1.2%. The upshot from the Q2 financial report from Cumulus Media is that on the radio station side net revenue was basically flat at $208.6 million (-0.7%), while the network side – Westwood One – was $81.2 million (+6.1%). Cumulus 
president and CEO Mary Berner says, “Our second quarter results provide further evidence of the success of our turnaround strategies as we posted a year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA for the first time in over three years despite what continues to be a tough market environment.” For the first six months of 2017 the
radio division was down 1.1% and Westwood One was up 1.8%. During yesterday’s investor conference call, Berner stated that the third quarter is pacing down or basically flat, ex political. She reported positive stations ratings growth in PPM markets. “We maintained our ratings share outperformance in PPM markets through the quarter even though we are now lapping some considerable share growth in Q2 2016. Nonetheless, we were up again this quarter and Q2 2017 marks seven straight quarters of PPM ratings share growth which we converted to revenue share growth of 3% in PPM markets in Q2. On the diary side, after two consecutive quarters of share growth, we gave back ratings share in the spring 2017 books for our four-book markets, driven by some fairly isolated challenges. Six markets out of 27 drove the entirety of the decline with two markets representing nearly half of the impact and, of course, we are very focused on righting the ship in those situations.”
New TV Gig for Laura Ingraham? That’s what Matt Drudge is hinting at in a tweet yesterday
(8/14). The Hill reports the tweet — “FALL PREVIEW: Laura Ingraham’s prime time to shine! After years in the trenches, much deserved.” – and notes that Drudge has credibility in this area having broken the stories of Bill O’Reilly’s departure from Fox News Channel and the death of former FNC chief Roger Ailes. Now, the speculation includes theories that Ingraham will get a prime time show on Fox News Channel, but there are differing thoughts on at what time the show would air and what current shows would move to accommodate the Ingraham program. Stay tuned!
Rinker to Lead Cumulus Pensacola. Media management pro Jackie Rinker is joining Cumulus Media as vice president and market manager for the company’s Pensacola station group
that includes: news/talk WCOA-AM, urban contemporary WRRX “Magic 106.1,” country WXBM “NASH FM 102.7,” classic hits WJTQ “Jet 100.7,” and adult contemporary WMEZ. She comes to Cumulus from her most recent position as market president for iHeartMedia’s Panama City and Tallahassee, Florida clusters. Cumulus RVP Pete DeSimone comments, “Jackie is a great addition to our management team. We have very talented people in Pensacola and I’m confident Jackie’s leadership will help develop each to help the market reach its full potential.”
It’s Official: Westwood One to Syndicate Sunday Evening Sabo Show. Several weeks ago, TALKERS magazine reported that media consultant Walter Sabo – under the stage name Walter Sterling – is joining Westwood One for national syndication of his WPHT, Philadelphia-based talk
radio program titled, “Sterling on Sunday.” Now, WW1 officially announces the deal. The program airs live from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am and presents “a mix of lifestyle, entertainment, and social conversation.” Stations already signed on to carry the program include: WLS-AM, Chicago; WMAL-AM/FM, Washington DC; KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh; and KMOX, St. 
Louis. Sabo says in a press release, “What two best friends talk about is not trivial, it’s a very big deal. That’s why ‘Sterling on Sundays’ transitions the listener into the week with conversation about troubles at work, celebrity gossip, and why the engine light never goes out. The audience is highly engaged and very diverse – from young parents who only have alone time later in the day, to medical professionals on their way to work and other shift workers and late-nighters.” In addition to the Sunday night program, Westwood One represents Sterling’s podcast, “Old Dad,” that “reveals the secret powers of the oldest Dad in three different public schools.” See TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian’s recent profile piece on Walter Sabo here.
TALKERS News Notes. Emmy Award-winning legal correspondent Amy Dash begins serving as a
legal analyst contributor to CBS Sports Radio and WFAN, New York. CBS RADIO says that Dash will be a featured guest across the shows on CBS Sports Radio as well as “The Fan” to “offer her expert legal opinion and analysis of news stories at the intersection of 
sports and the law.”…..CBS RADIO Dallas-Fort Worth SVP and market manager Brian Purdy was recently honored with the Texas Association of Broadcasters’ “Broadcaster of the Year” award. In accepting the award, Purdy said, “Every day is a terrific adventure working with our outstanding team, who responsibly inform, entertain, serve and protect Texans throughout the state. I wish they all could be standing up here with me right now.”…..Digital audio service TuneIn is offering its users the opportunity to listen to a free, live audiocast from the Houston Texans and New England Patriots joint practice at Texans training camp today and tomorrow from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Fans will be able to get coverage and expert analysis from Texans Radio, Patriots.com Radio and TuneIn’s “NFL No Huddle” broadcast teams, as well as special guest interviews.
Christopher Borelli Named Manager of New Business Development at Urban One. Sales
pro Christopher Borelli joins Urban One and syndication division Reach Media to serve as manager, new business development. He was most recently a GSM with Emmis Communications. Urban One says Borelli will help develop “incremental business growth in its radio assets, ranging from local (Urban One) and syndicated (Reach Media) radio, to its robust radio digital products (R1 Digital).”
Charlottesville Aftermath, Confederate Monuments Battle, CEOs Quit Trump Council, U.S.-North Korea Tensions, Iran Sanctions, Taylor Swift Case, MLB Action, and NFL Pre-season Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/14). The aftermath of Saturday’s deadly clash between white supremacists and protestors in Charlottesville and criticism of President Trump’s response; protestors bring down a Confederate monument in Durham, North Carolina in response to the Charlottesville violence; three CEOs quit President Trump’s American Manufacturing Council after the president’s response to the Charlottesville violence; the saber-rattling between North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and President Trump; Iran threatens to violate nuclear deal if more sanctions are imposed on it; a jury finds DJ groped Taylor Swift; Major League Baseball action; and NFL pre-season activities were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Chicago, media writer Robert Feder reports that Kathy Hart – who’s been missing without explanation from the Eric & Kathy show on Hubbard Radio’s hot AC WTMX since April – has changed agents and is now represented by attorney Steve Mandell. It’s unclear if this change is part of an effort to resolve issues causing her
absence from the highly rated morning show…..Alpha Media Portland’s CHR KBFF “Live 95.5” names Amanda “ICE” Habrowski assistant program director for the station. She currently serves as music director and midday personality, duties she will maintain. Alpha Media VP of programming Phil Becker says, “Over the last three years, ICE has been a vital part of our success and I’m thrilled to be able to offer her this opportunity.”…..Beasley Media Group’s classic hits KKLZ, Las Vegas morning personalities Mike & Carla recently collected more than 1,200 cases of bottled water to benefit the Salvation Army of Las Vegas. The station says that what began as a simple idea by the morning duo of putting the word out via the airwaves that the Salvation Army was in dire need of bottled water turned into a massive bottled water collection to benefit the non-profit. Individuals who dropped off a case of water received a family four-pack of tickets to attend the station’s “Raider’s Pre-season Viewing Party” at the Thomas & Mack Center…..Westwood One and Billboard announce that the former’s nationally syndicated country radio program “American Country Countdown with Kix Brooks” will begin using the latter’s country airplay chart upon which to base the week’s top songs for the program, effective the weekend of September 9-10. Westwood One notes that this is a return to the show’s roots as Billboard served as the chart source for the program for more than 35 years, beginning with the program’s inception in 1973.
July PPM Takeaways. Below are TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian‘s “Twelve Takeaways” based on the July PPM ratings information released by Nielsen Audio last week. The 12 markets addressed today are: Washington, Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s July 2017 survey period covered June 22 – July 19. You can view all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
1) Washington, D.C. – It is quite a momentous ratings period for WHUR, which not only is up or flat for the fifth consecutive time for a cumulative +2.4 (5.7- 6.0 – 7.0 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 8.1, 6+), the Howard University-owned urban AC crosses the eight-share level (6+) for the first time in its PPM history. Moreover, WHUR is in third-place for the seventh time in a row and has a 2.1-share advantage (6+) over
Radio One’s similarly-programmed WMMJ “Majic 102.3,” up in back-to-back sweeps for a +.7 (5.3 – 5.7 – 6.0, steady at #4, 6+). A combined -2.3 as the result of five consecutive negative sweeps (6.1 – 5.9 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 3.8, 6+), WMMJ bounced back with three straight increases for a collective +1.6 (3.8 – 4.4 – 4.9 – 5.4, 6+), but that streak concluded in March. After posting five straight sweeps without a decrease that netted a +1.5 (3.9 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WBIG stumbled by six-tenths in June; however, “Big 100 – Washington’s Classic Rock Station” recaptures all of it in July (4.8 – 5.4, 6+), inching up from sixth to fifth. Improving by one-half share (1.1 – 1.6, 6+), CBS Radio tropical WLZL has its highest 6+-share since the “Holiday” 2016 report’s 1.9 and “El Zol 107.9” continues at #19. Inching up from eighth to sixth, Columbia Union College contemporary Christian WGTS “91.9 Christian Music Radio” has its fifth straight up or flat trend that has generated a 
+1.9 (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.5 – 4.8, 6+). The market leader for the seventh consecutive time is American University-owned WAMU, which adds one-tenth from June (9.3 – 9.4, 6+). A combined -1.5 in back-to-back sweeps (11.5 – 11.0 – 10.0, February – March – April, 6+), WAMU rebounded in May with a +.7 to 10.7 (6+), but “The Mind Is Our Medium” forfeited exactly twice that increase in June with a -1.4. February 2017’s 11.5 matches the highest 6+-share in its PPM-history, first reached in December 2016. While it holds down the runner-up slot in each of the seven successive sweeps that WAMU has finished first, Hubbard all-news operation WTOP is off for the fourth consecutive time for a collective -1.7 (9.9 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.7 –
8.2, 6+) and has its softest 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2015’s 7.5. A loss of eight-tenths (4.9 – 4.1, 6+) takes iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH (fifth to eighth) to the lowest 6+-showing in its PPM-history. The market’s (6+) hot AC share declines by one full-share as both Cumulus Media’s WRQX “Mix 107.3” (3.4 – 2.9, #13 to #14, 6+) and CBS Radio-owned WIAD “94.7 Fresh FM” (3.1 – 2.6, #15 to #17, 6+) are off by one-half share. Stuck on 2.8 (6+) in February, March, and April, “Mix” was a combined +.6 in May and June; 3.4 in June represented the highest 6+-share for “Mix” since it returned to hot AC (from CHR) in mid-November 2013. Having doubled its 6+-stat since February with four straight up or flat trends (1.5 – 2.2 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.0, 6+), CBS Radio sports/talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” is off three-tenths to 2.7 (6+) but the Washington Nationals’ flagship moves from #17 to #16.
2) Boston – Owing to a gain of seven-tenths (4.9 – 5.6, 6+), CBS Radio-owned WZLX “Classic Rock 100.7” advances from sixth to fourth. In addition to adding six-tenths to June’s +.7, iHeartMedia CHR WXKS-FM enjoys its fifth successive increase netting a cumulative +1.9 (5.6 – 5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9 – 7.5, 6+); “Kiss 108 – 
Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” marches from third to second. Slipping from #13 to #14, WXKS-FM’s direct competitor – CBS Radio’s WODS “Amp 103.3” – is without an increase for the third straight time (3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), immediately after posting four successive positive monthlies which netted four-tenths (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.1, 6+). Breaking into the top twenty (#21 to #19), Northeast Broadcasting Company triple A WXRV “92.5 The River – Boston’s Independent Radio” hasn’t had a decrease in the last four sweeps (1.4 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.8, 6+) for a +.4. Rebounding from June’s -.6, Beasley Media Group-owned classic hits-oldies WROR “Boston’s Classic Hits” picks up four-tenths (7.3 – 7.4, 6+) and is on top for the seventh time in a row. The market leader for 11 successive monthlies before being dislodged in December, WROR was +1.1 in December; -1.4 in “Holiday” 2016; +1.6 in January; +.8 in March; -.8 in April; and -.6 in June. On the heels of adding seven-tenths in June to notch its best 6+-stat since last November’s 3.2, WGBH Educational Foundation classical WCRB spirals by one full-share (2.1 – 2.8 – 1.8, 6+), drifting from #14 to #19. Having bounced back from May’s -.1 with a June gain of three-tenths, Entercom
owned/Boston Red Sox flagship WEEI-FM drops seven-tenths in July (5.0 – 4.3, 6+) and returns to #7 from #5. While remaining at #10, its sports talk rival – CBS Radio’s WBZ-FM “The Sports Hub” – is without an increase for the sixth straight 
time for a combined loss of -2.5 (5.8 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 3.5 – 3.3, 6+). In four successive dips (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.1 – 5.0, 6+), news-talk sibling WBZ-AM is off by eight-tenths and slips from fourth to fifth. Following a massive +1.1 (to 7.0, 6+) in June, Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMJX “Magic 106.7 – Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites” returns roughly half of that increase (7.0 – 6.4, -.6, 6+), backsliding from second to third. The 7.0 (6+) “Magic” displayed in June ended a repetitive trending pattern of 5.6 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.9 (6+) and was its strongest 6+-share since 13.4 in “Holiday” 2016. Flat at #18, Entercom urban AC WKAF “97.7 – Boston’s #1 For R&B” drops three-tenths to 2.0 (6+), thus ending at five its consecutive string of up or flat trends that netted a +1.4 (.9 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, 6+).
3) Miami – Within 3.7 – 4.0 range (6+) since the “Holiday” 2016 report, iHeartMedia-owned WBGG faltered by six-tenths in June to 3.2 (6+), but “Big 105.9 – South Florida’s Classic Rock” regains all but one-tenth of that loss (3.7, +.5, 6+) and climbs from #12 to #11. The 3.2 in June was the lowest 6+-share for “Big” since May 2016 (3.2 as well). In addition to “Big,” Entercom classic hits-oldies WMXJ gains one-half
share as well as it tacks onto June’s +.4 (3.7 – 4.1 – 4.6), with “102.7 The Beach – More Music, More Fun” inching up from eighth to seventh. Without an increase between November 2016 and June 2017 (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – .9, 6+), Fenix Broadcasting Spanish news/talk WWFE “670 AM – La Ponderosa” adds one-tenth to 1.0 and moves from #26 to #24. Having erased April’s one-half share loss with a +.7 in May to advance from second to first (7.2 – 6.7 – 7.4, 6+), Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT added three-tenths in June only to drop four-tenths in July (7.7 – 7.3, 6+). Nonetheless, “Hot 105” is #1 for the third straight time; 7.7 was the station’s strongest 6+-stat since last July’s 8.0. Down or flat in six straight sweeps for a combined -1.9 (8.2 – 8.0 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), “Hot” notched a one-half share gain in “Holiday” 2016 but was off by seven-tenths in January. Having posted a 7.0 (6+) or higher in five of the last six ratings periods, Univision Radio Spanish contemporary WAMR sputters by six tenths (7.2 – 6.6, 6+), but “Amor 107.5” occupies the runner-up slot for the third successive time. Simultaneously, Spanish Broadcasting System’s similarly-formatted WRMA “Ritmo 95.7 – Cubatón y Más” has lost one full-share via four straight down or flat trends (3.9 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 2.9 – 2.9, 6+), yet actually improves from #16 to #15. As Cox Media Group mainstream CHR WFLC “Hits 97.3” loses two-tenths in each of the last three sweeps (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 4.1, 6+) dropping from seventh to eighth, iHeartMedia-owned WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” (steady at 4.1 and unchanged at #8) catches its format rival. “Y-100” wiped out May’s -.4 with a +.4 in June. May’s -.4 halted at four WHYI’s successive string of up or flat trends that netted an overall gain of one-half share (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.1, 6+), while April’s 4.7 was the strongest 6+-performance for “Hits 97.3” since 4.9 last September. Meanwhile in the market’s adult contemporary tussle, Entercom’s WLYF “Lite FM” is off a collective seven-tenths in four straight downward trends (5.9 – 5.7 – 5.6 – 5.2, 6+) but stays at #4, while Cox Media Group-owned WFEZ “Easy 93” – up a combined full-share in back-to-back sweeps (5.8 – 6.6 – 6.8, April – May – June, 6+) – remains at #3, despite losing three tenths in July to 6.5 (6+).
4) Detroit – The Motor City is the only PPM-market among the 12 listed here that has two stations making (6+) June 2017 – July 2017 gains of at least one full-share and it proves historic for one of them. Without an increase in three straight survey periods for a -.7 (5.5 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), WCSX responded in 
June with a one-half share increase. Now, “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock Station” not only piles on an additional +1.1 (5.3 – 6.4, 6+), the Beasley Media Group-owned property vaults from #7 to #1 – the first time reaching the penthouse in its PPM-history. Locked on 3.6 in three of the last five survey periods (3.6 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.6, 6+), Cumulus Media hot AC WDVD “96.3 Today’s Best Music and More” breaks out a full-share increase to 4.6 (6+) and enters the top ten (#13 to #10) with its best 6+-showing in exactly one year (4.6, as well, 6+, July 2016). In the runner-up slot (up from #3 in June) is CBS Radio classic hits-oldies WOMC, which posts its third straight gain for a collective +.8 (5.4 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.2, 6+). Actually, “Detroit’s Greatest Hits” is tied for second-place with iHeartMedia adult contemporary WNIC “100.3 The ‘80s ‘til Now,” which – like WOMC – posts its third straight gain but with a full-share improvement in that timeframe (5.2 – 5.8 – 5.9 – 6.2, 6+) and moves up from fourth in June. Cracking the top ten (#11 to #10), WNIC’s urban contemporary cluster-mate WJLB “FM 98 Detroit’s Hip-Hop and R&B” also registers its third consecutive gain for a collective +.6 (3.5 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.1, 6+). The station WCSX displaced at #1 – iHeartMedia urban AC WMXD – was a combined +2.4 in May and June (4.0 – 5.5 – 6.4, 6+); however, “Mix 92.3 Detroit’s R&B and Throwbacks” relinquishes exactly half that gain (5.2, -1.2, 6+) to tumble from first to sixth. It is tied there with CBS Radio all-news WWJ, off for the fourth straight time for a combined loss of more than two full-shares (7.4 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 5.2, 6+). Owing to a decrease of seven-tenths (6.2 – 5.5, 6+), co-owned WYCD “99.5 Detroit’s Country” falls from second to fourth. Unchanged at #5, sports talk cluster-mate WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” is off one full-share via three straight downward moves (6.3 – 6.1 – 5.7 – 5.3, 6+). At #22, Wayne State University news/talk WDET is without an increase for the sixth successive sweep for a cumulative loss of six-tenths (1.5 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.2 – 1.1 – .9 -.9, 6+).
5) Seattle – The rollercoaster ride continues for Hubbard adult contemporary KRWM “Warm 106.9,” which was +.5 in May; -.6 in June; and +.9 in July (5.1 – 5.6 – 5.0 – 5.9, 6+), leaping from fourth to second. May’s +.5 stymied four successive sweeps without an increase that nearly sliced KRWM’s 6+-share in half since the “Holiday” report (10.9 – 5.6 – 5.3 – 5.1 – 5.1, 6+). It is now just one-tenth behind CHR sibling KQMV
“MOViN 92.5 – All the Hits,” which plummets by -1.2 (7.4 – 6.2, 6+); nevertheless, KQMV is #1 for the seventh consecutive time. This is the softest 6+-showing for “MOViN 92.5” since last August (5.7). Following three straight gains that accounted for a +1.0 (6.8 – 7.1 – 7.2 – 7.8, 6+), KQMV returned 90% of that increase in April (6.9, -.9, 6+) and bounced back in May with a +.5. Entering the “Holiday” 2016 ratings period, “MOViN 92.5” was on top for 12 straight sweeps but gave way to “Warm 106.9” before regaining the lead in January. Knocked off the top twenty in June, Entercom-owned KKWF “100.7 Seattle’s Fresh Country The Wolf” gains six-tenths (2.1 – 2.7, 6+) and returns in a three-way tie at #18; July’s 2.7 is its highest 6+-share since last December’s 2.8. Advancing from eighth to sixth is its format rival, CBS Radio’s KMPS “Seattle Country Music Radio” (4.5 – 4.9, +.4, 6+). Gaining one-half share (1.3 – 1.8, 6+), Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLSW “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” checks in at #22. Off by eight-tenths, iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KJR-FM “95.7 The Jet” matches its 5.0 (6+) in April and drops from a second-place tie in June to fourth. Co-owned sports talk KJR-AM “Seattle Sports Radio 950” (#31) has its 6+-share sliced 
by more than 50% via four straight decreases (1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0 – .7 – .5, 6+). A +.8 in four consecutive up or flat trends (2.4 – 2.5 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+), format foe – Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” – is down one-tenth yet moves from #15 to #14. Without a decrease in each of the last six sweeps and nearly doubling its 6+-share in that period (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.9, 6+), public KNKX “Your Connection to Jazz, Blues and NPR News” is off by four-tenths to 4.5 (6+), dipping from fifth to eighth. Stuck on 2.1 (6+) in March and April and then on 1.9 (6+) in May and June, Sinclair Broadcast Group news/talk KVI falters by three-tenths in July to 1.6 (#23, 6+). Off one-tenth to 3.6 (6+), Entercom’s KNDD ends at four its consecutive streak of up or flat trends that netted one-half share (3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.7, 6+), as “Alternative Seattle – 107.7 The End” departs the top ten (#10 to #12).
6) Phoenix – With a 6+ January 2017 through May 2017 trend of 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 4.7, KOOL is a combined +1.7 in June and July (5.3 – 6.4, 6+). As a result, the CBS Radio classic hits-oldies facility jumps from fourth to second and reaches the six-share level (6+) for the first time since May 2016’s 6.0. The give 
and take yoyo effect carries on for Hubbard-owned KUPD, which has been +.5 in March (as part of three straight gains netting a +1.3, 4.0 – 4.4 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+); -.5 in April; +.8 in May; -.6 in June; and is now +.6 in July (4.8 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 5.6 – 5.0 – 5.6, 6+). After the dust settles, “Arizona’s Real Rock” is up eight-tenths in that stretch and advances from fifth in June to a fourth-place tie. Putting an end to a 4.2 – 4.0 – 4.2 (6+) line, iHeartMedia adult hits KYOT “95.5 The Mountain – We Play Everything” (steady at #6) progresses by six-tenths as well to 4.8, its highest 6+-share in exactly one year (5.0, 6+, July 2016). In a similar vein, a gain of one-half share by CHR sibling KZZP (3.9 – 4.4, eighth to seventh, 6+) takes “104.7 Kiss FM The #1 Hit Music Station in Phoenix” to its strongest 6+-performance since June 2016’s 4.6. The winning streak continues for Hubbard-owned KDKB, which is a cumulative +1.5 in eight straight up or flat trends (2.3 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.7 – 3.8, 6+); “Alt 93.3 Arizona’s Alternative” inches up from tenth to ninth. Even though it is a collective +1.4 via four straight progressive or flat trends (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.9 – 5.6 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KMXP “Mix 96.9 – Today’s Best Music Mix” reverts to #4 from #3; 5.6 is its highest 6+-share since June 2014’s 5.8. In five straight (modest) increases, Maricopa County Community College classical KBAQ “K-Bach” is up one full-share (2.2 – 2.3 –
2.6 – 2.8 – 3.1 – 3.2, 6+) and elevates from #13 to #11. Down a combined one-half share in June and July (7.3 – 7.0 – 6.8, 6+), Hubbard’s KSLX “Classic Rock 100.7” is nonetheless #1 for the third straight time. Dipping four-tenths in April (6.5 – 6.1, 6+), KSLX shifted from a one-month stay at #1 to #2. By hanging out a +1.2 in May (6.1 – 7.3, 6+), it returned to the top spot. This marks the fifth straight decrease for Bonneville news/talk KTAR-FM (eighth to tenth) for a collective -1.2 (4.8 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.6, +). Without a loss in each of the past five ratings periods for a +1.2 (1.8 – 1.8 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+), Entravision regional Mexican KLNZ “La Tricolor 103.5” slips by two-tenths to 2.8 (#14 to #15, 6+).
7) Minneapolis – It’s a mixed bag for hot AC in July 2017 as Hubbard-owned KSTP-FM “KS-95 Today’s Variety” gains one full-share, while iHeartMedia’s KTCZ “Cities 97” (flat at #12) falters by one-half share. Without an increase the past five sweeps for a -1.1 (7.7 – 7.6 – 7.3 – 6.7 – 6.6 – 6.6, 6+), KSTP-FM not only recaptures all but one-tenth of that cumulative loss (7.6, +1.0, 6+), “KS-95 Today’s Variety” advances from
second to first. In January, “KS-95” posted a +1.3, curtailing a lengthy dry spell in which the hot AC hadn’t had an increase since February 2016 (10.2 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.1 – 9.1 – 8.9 – 7.7 – 7.6 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 6.4, 6+). In those 11 straight sweeps of being either down or flat, “KS-95” was a combined -3.8. A cumulative -1.2 in December and “Holiday” 2016 (5.2 – 4.6 – 4.0, 6+), “Cities 97” was +1.3 in January, but followed it with four consecutive negative trends that produced a -1.4 (5.3 – 4.8 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+) until adding four-tenths in June. Frozen on 6.8 (6+) in April and May, iHeartMedia CHR KDWB dials up back-to-back increases totaling seven-tenths (6.8 – 7.4 – 7.5, 6+) but – after finishing at #1 the past three ratings periods – “The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station” segues to #2. Notwithstanding that classic hits-oldies cluster-mate KQQL cobbles together five successive up or flat trends in which it is +1.4 (5.4 – 5.8 – 5.8 – 6.4 – 6.6 – 6.8, 6+), “Kool 108 – Minnesota’s Greatest Hits” must settle for moving from a second-place tie to third. Back in the top ten 
(#11 to #9) after halting three straight downward sequences (6.2 – 5.8 – 5.0 – 4.6, 6+), sports talk sibling KFXN “100.3 KFAN – The Sports Leader” regains three-tenths of that cumulative -1.6 (4.9, 6+). After regressing by one-half share in June, University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM “Twin Cities’ Christian Radio” bounces back with a gain of seven-tenths (4.8 – 5.5, 6+) to climb from ninth to seventh; 5.5 is its highest 6+-stat since February’s 5.6. Conversely, a decrease of nine-tenths by KNOW (sixth to tenth) takes the American Public Media Group news/talk outlet to 4.7, its softest 6+-stat since the “Holiday” 2016 report’s 4.6. Regressing by seven-tenths each are Cumulus Media-owned KQRS “Minnesota’s Classic Rock” (6.3 – 5.6, fourth to sixth, 6+) and CBS Radio’s KMNB “Buz’n” @ 102.9” which curtails at three a string of consecutive gains that yielded a +1.1 (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.8, 6+) and falls out of the top ten (#9 to #11).
8) San Diego – By adding seven-tenths to June’s one-half share increase (4.8 – 5.3 – 6.0, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KMYI “Star 94.1 – San Diego’s Best Music Variety” progresses from fourth to first. Moreover, this is the strongest 6+-stat for “Star” since last August when it reached 6.3 and first time hitting 
#1 since last October. Slipping from #1 to #2 is Entercom adult contemporary KXSN “Sunny 98.1 – Better Music for a Better Workday,” which is off by four-tenths (6.2 – 5.8, 6+). In May, “Sunny” surrendered April’s +.7 in its entirety, causing KXSN to exit the top spot, a position it held for the first time since December. A June spike of +.9 though returned “Sunny” from second to first, with 6.2 its most potent 6+-share since last May’s 6.6. Prior to April, “Sunny” had been within 5.1 – 5.9 range (6+) the previous 11 sweeps. After posting three increases in a row netting eight-tenths (4.9 – 5.1 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+), co-owned KSON “New Country” drops three-tenths to 5.4 (6+) and slides from second to fourth. A combined -1.2 in three successive decreases (5.4 – 5.2 – 4.8 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR KHTS “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” adds fourth-tenths to 4.6 (6+) and inches up from eighth to seventh. Owing to a +.3 to 1.8 (6+), Entercom-owned KBZT “94.9 San Diego’s Alternative” (#22 to #21) pulls the plug on five straight ratings periods without an increase that accounted for a -1.2 (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+). Down for the third successive month for a collective -1.4 (4.8 – 4.2 – 3.8 – 3.4, 6+), CBS Radio adult contemporary-turned-hot AC KYXY exits the top ten (#10 to #11). One-tenth behind KYXY at 3.3 (6+, flat at #12) is iHeartMedia-owned KSSX “San Diego’s Hip-Hop and R&B Radio Station” which hasn’t had a decrease in the past four sweeps and is up one-half share in that stretch (2.8 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.2 – 3.3, 6+). When Univision Radio regional Mexican KLNV “Que Buena 106.5” notched a gain of one-half share in June, it ended three straight down or flat trends that yielded a loss of seven-tenths (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+), but “Que Buena 106.5” surrenders seven-tenths in July (4.5 – 3.8, 6+) to tumble from sixth to ninth. As the result of five straight up or flat trends (1.8 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 3.0 – 3.1, 6+), Media Sports de Mexico classic hits-oldies XPRS-FM was +1.3, but “Max 105.7 – San Diego’s Throwback Station” hands back approximately half that gain with a -.6 to 2.5 (#13 to #16, 6+).
9) Denver – Having regressed by one-half share in June, Colorado Public Radio’s KCFR makes up nearly twice that much (4.0 – 4.9, +.9, 6+), zooming from tenth to sixth with its strongest 6+-stat in nearly a year (4.9, as well, 6+, August 2016). Within 4.1 – 4.7 range (6+) in each of the past eight survey periods, iHeartMedia classic rock KRFX “103.5 The Fox” breaks out a +.7 to 5.2 to progress from eighth to fifth; 5.2
matches its 6+-share in August 2016. Applying the brakes to three straight downward moves that accounted for a loss of six-tenths (4.4 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 3.8, 6+) co-owned CHR KPTT recoups it all with a +.6 to 4.4 (6+) as “95.7 The Party – Denver’s #1 Hit Music Station” returns to the top ten (#12 to #10). Registering its eighth successive increase netting a collective +2.6 (3.4 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.7 – 6.0, 6+) triple A cluster-mate KBCO “World Class Rock” carries on at #3 and has its best 6+-showing since 6.1 in September 2015. Improving by one-half share each are Entercom classic rock KQMT “99.5 The Mountain” (5.9 – 6.4, unchanged at #2, 6+) and Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI “101 – Real, Music, Variety” (5.0 – 5.5, steady at #4, 6+). By recapturing the seven-tenths it lost in back-to-back declines since February (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.5, 6+), “The Mountain” progressed from third to first in May; KOSI snaps at three a successive streak of decreases that resulted in a loss of nine-tenths (5.9 – 5.8 – 5.4 – 5.0, 6+). One-tenth of a share ahead of “The Mountain” is KYGO, which repeats at #1, although it is down one-tenth to 6.5 (6+). The Bonneville country outlet rebounded from May’s -.4 with a +.6 in June (6.4 – 6.0 – 6.6, 6+). After three straight months at #1, KYGO slipped to #2 in May. There’s a tie at #12 between the market’s two hot ACs: KSE Radio Ventures’ KIMN “Mix 100 – Today’s Best Mix” is off by four-tenths (#9 in June, 6+) and is caught by Entercom’s KALC “Alice 105.9” (3.8 – 3.9, +.1, 6+), which is unchanged at #12. From “Holiday” 2016 through July 2017, “Mix” has had an alternating up/down 6+-pattern: 3.9 – 3.7 – 4.4 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 4.3 – 3.9 and it is right where it was 
when the sequence began. Huge fluctuations are seemingly commonplace at Bonneville’s KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan” as its eight most recent shifts are -.5 (“Holiday” 2016); +1.1 (January 2017); -.7 (February); +.6 (March); -.5 (April); +.5 (May); -.7 (June); and now -.9 in July (3.2 – 2.3, #16 to #18, 6+). A loss of six-tenths in November halted four successive up or flat trends which netted two full-shares (2.9 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 4.9, 6+). By way of context, this past October’s 4.9 represents the most potent 6+ showing for KKFN under PPM methodology. Within 3.0 – 3.8 range for the 20th successive survey period (3.6 – 3.1, -.5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KBPI “Rocks the Rockies” remains at #14. Without an increase for the sixth straight time for a collective loss of over two full-shares (7.1 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.7 – 4.7, 6+), co-owned KTCL “Modern Rock – Channel 93-3” drifts from sixth to eighth.
10) Tampa – Without an increase the last four rating periods – including being stuck on 3.8 (6+) in April, May and June – (4.5 – 4.3 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+), Radio Training Network contemporary Christian WCIE not only trots out an increase of one full-share to 4.8 (6+), “The Joy FM” rockets from #12 all the way to #4. 
This is the highest 6+-share for “Joy FM” since the “Holiday” 2016 report’s 5.1. Displaying its strongest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2016’s 5.4, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WBTP “95.7 The Beat Tampa Bay’s Hip-Hop and R&B” is up or flat for the third straight time (4.9 – 5.0 – 5.0 – 5.3, 6+) for a +.4, elevating from fourth to third. Flat at 7.1 (6+) after June’s -1.0, Cox Media Group classic hits oldies WXGL is in the runner-up slot for the ninth straight time. Following five consecutive positive trends for a cumulative full-share increase (5.5 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.5, 6+), “The Eagle” was down by one-tenth in “Holiday” 2016. Format rival – Beasley Media Group’s WRBQ “Q-105” slips from seventh to ninth and is a collective -1.5 via four consecutive negative trends (5.6 – 5.4 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+). Recapturing the one-half share that it lost in June (1.4 – .9 -1.4, 6+), adult contemporary sibling WPBB “B-98.7 Today’s Hits – Yesterday’s Favorites” enters the top twenty (#22 to #20). Elsewhere in the adult contemporary arena, Cox Media Group’s WDUV adds four-tenths to register its most potent 6+-stat since “Holiday” 2016’s 12.7. In addition to finishing at #1 for the 58th successive ratings period, “Lite Favorites” is a collective +1.8 via four successive uptrends (8.7 – 8.9 – 9.5 – 10.1 – 10.5, 6+). Conversely, its adult contemporary sibling – WWRM “My Magic 94.9 Tampa Bay’s Best Music” (drifting from third to sixth) – ends its 5.7 – 6.0 – 5.7 (6+) trending by sputtering -1.1 to 4.6, its weakest 6+-showing since 4.6 in September 2015. Eroding by six-tenths each are its CHR sibling WPOI “Hot 101.5 – All The Hits,” down for the third straight time for a collective -1.2 (4.7 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 3.5, #9 to #12, 6+), and Beasley Media Group Spanish contemporary WYUU “92.5 Maxima,” off for the third successive sweep as well for a cumulative -1.3 (4.1 – 3.7 – 3.4 – 2.8, #13 to #17, 6+). With a 6+-trend of 4.7 – 4.6 – 4.7 – 4.6, sibling WXTB “98 Rock – Tampa Bay’s Rock Station” backslides from fifth to sixth. Unchanged at #14, iHeartMedia hot AC WMTX “Mix 100.7” is without an increase for the fourth month in a row and has been stuck on 3.3 (6+) in May, June, and July (4.0 – 3.8 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.3, 6+) For the fifth time in the last six sweeps, The Diocese of St. Petersburg-owned contemporary Christian WBVM posts a 1.0 as “90.5 My Spirit FM” departs the top twenty (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0, #20 to #21, 6+).
11) Baltimore –The May – June – July up/down/up sequence at iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR consists of an impressive +1.2 in May; -.5 in June; and now a +.9 in July (4.4 – 5.6 – 5.1 – 6.0, 6+) with “102.7 Jack FM Playing What We Want for Baltimore” climbing from sixth to fifth; 6.0 is the best 6+-performance for “Jack” since 6.1 in March 2015. Powered by a +.7 (3.0 – 3.7), Shamrock Communications’ WZBA “100.7 The
Bay – Baltimore’s Classic Rock Station” cracks the top ten (#12 to a three-way tie at #9) and has its highest 6+-share in exactly one year (4.0, 6+, July 2016). Without an increase in each of the last four ratings periods for a collective loss of (just) four-tenths (5.6 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 5.2, 6+), Hearst Television’s WIYY “98 Rock” picks up one-half share to 5.7 (6+) yet must backslide from fifth to sixth. Each of Baltimore’s top four July 2017 finishers are down from June 2016 (6+), including Radio One urban contemporary WERQ, which forfeits its +.7 in June (8.0 – 8.7 – 8.0, 6+); even so, it is #1 for the third straight month. Having finished second for four consecutive ratings periods, “Q-92 Jams” shifted to third in April. With a gain of one-half share in May though (7.5 – 8.0, 6+) it caught co-owned urban AC WWIN “Magic 95.9” at #1. The tie was broken in June as “Q-92 Jams” gained seven-tenths to 8.7 (6+). Despite losing six-tenths in July (8.4 – 7.8, 6+), “Magic” carries on at #2. A +.4 in June by “Magic” curtailed at four its consecutive string of downward trends that accounted for a loss of nine-tenths (8.9 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.3 – 8.0, 6+). Prior to June, it had been on top the previous five straight monthlies. Remaining at #3, and #4, respectively, iHeartMedia-owned WPOC “93.1 Baltimore’s #1 for New Country” is down or flat for the third consecutive month for a -.6 (8.0 – 7.7 – 7.7 – 7.4, 6+), while CBS Radio adult contemporary WLIF “Today’s 101.9” returns the two-tenths it picked up in June (6.4 – 6.6 – 6.4, 6+). Sputtering by seven-tenths in back-to-back months (5.4 – 4.7 – 4.0, 6+), co-owned sports/talk and Baltimore Orioles flagship WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” remains in eighth-place. Flat at #15, American University’s WAMU “The Mind Is Our Medium” is off by one-half share in Baltimore (1.6 – 1.1, 6+).
12) St. Louis – Following four down or flat trends that produced a loss of eight-tenths (7.0 – 6.6 – 6.3 – 6.3 – 6.2, 6+), Radio One urban AC WFUN “95.5 R&B + Old School for The Lou” picks up three-tenths to 6.5 (6+), climbing from fifth to fourth. The eight-tenths advantage iHeartMedia CHR KSLZ “Z-107.7 – St. 
Louis’ #1 Hit Music Station” held in June over Emmis Communications’ similarly-formatted KNOU “Now 96.3” is down to one-tenth as “Z-107.7” falters by six-tenths to 3.7 (6+, #9 to #13), while “Now” adds one-tenth (3.5 – 3.6, unchanged at #14, 6+). In three of its last four sweeps, “Z-107.7” had notched a 4.3 (4.3 – 4.3 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+). A one-tenth improvement by co-owned KLLT “Alt 104.9 – St. Louis’ Alternative Rock” to 1.3 (flat at #18, 6+) ends at five a consecutive string of down or flat trends that resulted in a one-half share decline (1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4 – 1.2, 6+). Up three-tenths to 8.5 (6+), classic hits-oldies sibling KLOU repeats at #1. After three successive sweeps as the market’s pacesetter, KLOU assumed the runner-up slot in April. A combined +1.3 in October and November (6.4 – 6.9 – 7.7, 6+), it floundered by -1.6 in December; bounced back with a +3.8 in “Holiday” 2016; but was -2.8 in January. Before October’s +.5, KLOU had been down or flat the previous four sweeps for a net loss of one full-share (7.4 – 7.4 – 6.7 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+). A decrease of seven-tenths by KPNT not only forces the Emmis property from the top ten (#8 to #11), “105.7 The Point Everything Alternative” drops to 4.0, its lowest 6+-share since “Holiday” 2014’s 3.8. Regressing by one-half share each are co-owned KSHE (7.9 – 7.4, second to third, 6+) and Hubbard’s WIL-FM “St. Louis’ Country Music Radio” (fourth to fifth, 6+). A June increase of +1.2 propelled KSHE from 6.7 to 7.9, its strongest 6+-stat since last November’s 8.6. The one-half share loss halts at four WIL-FM’s consecutive string of increases that netted eight-tenths (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.5, 6+). Regaining the two-tenths it lost in June (4.2 – 4.0 – 4.2, 6+), its direct competitor, iHeartMedia’s KSD-FM “The Bull – #1 For New Country,” charges into the top ten (#12 to #9). While it remains in seventh-place, CBS Radio hot AC KYKY “Y-98” is without an increase for the sixth month in a row for a collective -1.4 (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.7 – 5.4 – 5.1 – 5.0 – 4.8, 6+). Segueing from #14 to #15, Emmis news/talk KFTK registers its fourth successive (slight) downward trend for a collective loss of six-tenths (4.0 – 3.9 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.4, 6+). Unlisted for the eighth consecutive month are Gateway Creative Broadcasting-owned contemporary Christian KLJY “99.1 Joy! FM” (4.5, #9, “Holiday” 2016, 6+) and co-owned, similarly-formatted KLJY-HD2 (.2, #20, “Holiday” 2016, 6+).
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Saga Communications Reports Q2 Financials; Net Revenue Down 1.9%. That figure is based on revenue of $30.3 million for the second quarter of 2017 compared to the same period in 2016. For the six months ended on June 30, Saga Communications reports net revenue of $56.4 million – a 
decrease of 3.3% compared to the first six months of 2016. Saga recently signed off on its intent to sell its television stations in Joplin, Missouri and Victoria, Texas to Morgan Murphy Media for approximately $66.6 million and is acquiring eight radio stations in the Charleston and Hilton Head, South Carolina markets from Apex Media for $23 million. The television stations are reported as discontinued operations and are not included in the above figures. As for net income, Saga is reporting a figure of $4.5 million, down 5.9% from $4.8 million in Q2 of 2016.
E.W. Scripps Radio Division Revenue Down 5.6%. Television is the majority of E.W. Scripps business, with radio and digital taking a back seat. For the company as a whole, revenue was $232
million – up 2% from that same period a year ago. Breaking the company down into segments, radio revenue was $17.2 million, down 5.6% from $18.2 million in the second quarter of 2016. The company says segment profit in the radio division was $2.9 million in the second quarter, down from $3.9 million a year ago. Looking at the digital segment for a moment, while revenue was up 27.2% to $19.3 million during the second quarter, expenses were up to $23.5 million for a segment loss of $4.2 million – down a bit from the loss of $4.7 million in Q2 of 2016. Scripps reports that it is expecting third quarter radio revenue to be down in the mid-single digits.
ESPN Promotes Marcia Keegan to VP, National Radio Programming and Production. This is a promotion from her previous title as vice president, production. ESPN says that in this new role, Marcia Keegan will oversee all talk programming content on the ESPN Radio national network,
including such shows as “Golic and Wingo,” “The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” “The Ryen Russillo Show,” “The Right Time with Bomani Jones,” and “Jalen & Jacoby.” She will continue to be responsible for ESPN’s packaged show productions – the unit that handles approximately 1,000 hours of programming produced by outside vendors. ESPN SVP Traug Keller comments, “I’m so happy to welcome Marcia to the ESPN Audio team. Her new perspective, strategic thinking and creativity strengthen an already formidable ESPN Audio talk programming lineup.”
TALKERS News Notes. Radio pro Smitty O’Loughlin is retiring from the radio biz after a 36-year career. O’Loughlin has been serving as the market manager for Community Broadcasters’ Elmira, New York station group for the past four years. He says, “It is bittersweet as I turn the page to a new chapter in my life. Broadcasting is and will always be part of my life regardless of what retirement brings. I cherish the moments and memories with so many professionals, helping so many people throughout the years, and the personal fulfillment with all the community outreach.” O’Loughlin began his career in the Fort Smith, Arkansas market in 1981…..There’s a change in the on-air team for Tennessee Titans football broadcasts this season as former Titans tight end Frank Wycheck is taking the season off and is being replaced by former NFL coach Dave McGinnis as color analyst. Wycheck continues his role on “The Wake-Up Zone” heard on Cumulus Media’s Titans flagship WGFX, Nashville “104.5 The Zone.” The team released the following statement, “After multiple discussions with Frank, it was agreed that he will take this season off from the radio broadcasts and return next season. With the season quickly approaching, we have reached an agreement with Dave McGinnis to fill-in for Frank this season. Coach Mac has a deep knowledge and passion for the game, along with eight years as a coach with the Titans. He is very excited about taking on this role and we think he will fill in admirably.” Wycheck has been vocal about how concussions from his playing days have affected his health and its believed that this move is designed to, at least temporarily, lighten his workload.
Russian Sanctions/U.S.-Russia Relations, Fate of ObamaCare, North Korea Nuclear Threats, Iran-Nukes Deal, Arizona Senator Jeff Flake’s Book, West Wing Power Struggle, Trump Immigration Plan, Affirmative Action College Admissions, Dow Hits 22k, MLB Action and NFL Training Camps Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/2). President Donald Trump sign’s Russian sanctions bill and the tense relations between the U.S. and Russia; the GOP’s continuing efforts to build consensus for repealing the Affordable Care Act and replacing it; North Korea’s nuclear threats and U.S. diplomatic/military options; both sides in the Iran nuclear deal accuse the other of violating the pact; Arizona Senator Jeff Flake’s new book, A Principled Conservative, rankles fellow Republicans for its anti-Trump content; chatter about the ongoing West Wing power struggle and whether adviser Stephen K. Bannon will be next to exit; the Trump Administration’s plan to curtail immigration numbers; concerns by minority advocates the DOJ will investigate race-based admission policies at U.S. colleges; the Dow closes at a record 22,000-plus for the first time; Major League Baseball action; and news from the NFL’s training camps were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Completely Posted Today (8/3) with the Presentation of the “College Broadcaster of the Year Award” to WRHU, Hofstra University student manager Maria Santana by Doug Stephan (with introduction by Newsmax TV host/executive producer Bill Tucker). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions have been posted to Talkers.com. They include:
– The “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein).
– The special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan).
– The “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon).
– The “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo).
– The special presentation “The Trump Effect: Latest Research of Interest to News/Talk Radio” by Salem Radio Network SVP Phil Boyce (with introduction by Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host Brad Shepard).
– The special presentation “Podcasting and Local Radio” by PodcastOne excutive chairman Norm Pattiz (with introduction by Hubbard Radio SVP/programming Greg Strassell).
– The first, second and third in a series of three consecutive “one-on-one” sessions discussing the topic “Maximizing Talk Radio’s Multi-Platform Potential for Reach and Revenue” featuring conversations between WABC, New York, PD Craig Schwalb and KGO, San Francisco host Ethan Bearman, Bold Gold Media Group president/CEO Vince Benedetto and DGital Media managing partner Ron Hartenbaum, and nationally syndicated host Dr. Asa Andrew and TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein. All three sessions are facilitated by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio host Karen Hunter.
– A “one-on-one” dialogue titled “Radio That Makes a Difference” featuring the SiriusXM Satellite Radio husband/wife team of host Joe Madison and executive producer Sharon Madison (introduced by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio VP/GM talk programming Dave Gorab).
– A “Fireside Chat” featuring former CBS Radio president/CEO and Broadcasters Foundation of America chairman Dan Mason being interviewed by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (with introduction by BOB-FM, London morning host Graham Mack).
– A “Fireside Chat” featuring Emmis Communications CEO/chairman Jeff Smulyan being interviewed by TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey (with an introduction by Bentley University professor/TALKERS legal editor Steve Weisman).
– The series of four “one-on-one” dialogues titled “The Challenges of Doing Talk Radio in 2017.” They feature a conversation between WYD Media syndicated host Thom Hartmann and Cumulus Media corporate PD/WMAL, Washington PD Bill Hess(introduced by Moceri Media president Greg Moceri), a conversation between morning co-host of WAQY-FM (Rock102), Springfield, MA Mike “Bax” Baxendale and morning host of WOLB, Baltimore Larry Young, and a conversation between Cumulus Media EVP programming and content Mike McVay and Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott (facilitated by ABC News Radio VP/GM Steve Jones).
– The series of four “one-on-one” dialogues collectively titled, “Where Does Talk Media Go From Here?” featuring a conversation between WRHU, Hofstra University OM John T. Mullen and WRFH, Hillsdale College GM Scot Bertram; a conversation between The New Normal CEO/founder/host Tom Leykis and syndicated host Michael Berry; a conversation between The Weiss AgencyEVP Heather Cohen and Fox News Radio/Fox News Channel host Brian Kilmeade; and a conversation between WPHT, Philadelphia host Dom Giordano and GCN syndicated host Dr. Daliah Wachs (facilitated by WOR, New York APD Scott Lakefield). At the conclusion, Dr. Wachs is presented the TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” award by Michael Harrison.
– Three memorial tributes by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon dedicated to major talk show personalities and longtimeTALKERS Convention participants who passed away this past year: Tom Marr, Dr. Joy Browne and Alan Colmes. (Introduction by Stephan Multimedia CEO/host, Doug Stephan.)
– Presentation of the 2017 “Woman of the Year” award to Cumulus Media president/CEO Mary Berner by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison.
– Special luncheon greeting by Salem Radio Network syndicated host Joe Walsh (with introduction by SRN VP Phil Boyce).
– TODAY (8/3) completes the agenda with the posting of the presentation of the 2017 “College Broadcaster of the Year” award to WRHU, Hofstra University student manager Maria Santana by Doug Stephan (with introduction by Newsmax TV host/executive producer Bill Tucker).
Every session will remain online for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. There’s a plum gig open in Milwaukee as Entercom hot AC WMYX “99.1 The Mix” is seeking an air personality for its “Morning Mix” AM drive show alongside market pro
Elizabeth Kay. Interested radio pros should apply via Entercom’s website here…..On-air and programming pro Johnny Maze exits Adams Radio Group’s rock WZBH, Salisbury/Ocean City “93.5 The Beach” and sister classic rocker WGBG “BIG 98.5.” Maze, who was the afternoon drive personality at WZBH, also served as program director for both stations. He says in a Facebook post, “I am ‘officially’ ON THE BEACH! As of today, I am no longer with ‘93.5 The Beach’ in Salisbury/Ocean City. I had a good time, accomplished some great things and I made some awesome friends. Looking forward to finding my next opportunity and challenge.”…..The “Dudley & Bob with Matt” show – heard in mornings on Emmis classic rock KLBJ-FM, Austin is celebrating 25 years on the air at a special show on August 12 at Austin’s Paramount Theatre. The program will honor show founders Dale Dudley and Bob Fonseca. The event will feature a dedication from Austin’s mayor as well as performances by comedians and local music acts. The show was nominated for a Marconi Award in 2007 for Medium Market Personality of the Year. They were inducted in to the Texas Radio Hall of Fame in 2009…..Superadio promotes two to new positions. Rich O’Brien rises to the newly created position of EVP of programming and affiliate relations and Eric Faison is elevated to SVP of programming and affiliate relations. Superadio COO Jack Bryant states, “Both Rich and Eric are seasoned veterans of the industry and both epitomize the high standards for which the company is known. All programming, talent, and affiliate matters are in the best of hands with the team of Rich and Eric.”
Ice Cream for a Good Cause. Pictured here in the WPLJ, New York studios are (from l-r): Jason Street from Applegate Farm, WPLJ morning co-host Jayde Donovan, Melinda Street from Applegate Farm, and Philip Salerno from Children’s Specialized Hospital. They are holding the two winning ice cream flavors – Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Chunk and S’mores Fluff-A-Nutter – that WPLJ jocks and listeners created to be featured at Applegate Farm in Montclair, New Jersey through October. Ninety-five cents from every cone sold will be donated to Children’s Specialized Hospital.
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Today It’s Hannity, Tomorrow It May Be You. Nashville-based Westwood One nationally syndicated talk show host Phil Valentine writes today about the campaign being waged against Fox News Channel and Premiere Networks talk show host Sean Hannity for his reporting on and opining on the murder of DNC staffer Seth Rich. Media Matters is targeting Hannity’s advertisers in what is likely an attempt to get Fox to take action against Hannity. Valentine says that those on the left cheering and those on the right standing idly by are potentially risking their own hides somewhere down the road if this effort is successful. “The radical left loves to call conservatives fascists, yet there is nothing more fascist than shutting down people who dare utter something counter to your world view. That goes for both sides of the aisle. It’s one thing to simply stop patronizing a business because of the causes or people they support. It’s another thing altogether to launch a vicious e-mail campaign of threats and intimidation.” Coincidentally, Sean Hannity will be presented with TALKERS magazine’s Freedom of Speech Award at Talkers 2017: A New Era in New York on June 2. Read Valentine’s entire piece here.
Chris Berry Appointed SVP of News, Talk and Sports for iHeartMedia. Radio programming, sales and management pro Chris Berry takes on the SVP of news, talk and sports post for iHeartMedia. The company says
that Berry “will oversee our news, talk and sports brands, where he’ll provide strategic guidance for our spoken-word formats and connect key advertisers with iHeartMedia’s news, talk and sports audiences.” Berry has been serving as SVP/general manager for NBC News Radio and 24/7 News Network, a position he’ll maintain. During his career, Berry has been VP/GM for ABC News Radio and VP/GM of WMAL, Washington, to name a few. He joined 24/7 News Network as senior vice president and general manager in March 2011 and has spearheaded NBC News Radio’s editorial content since 24/7 News began syndicating the network in July 2016. Meet Chris Berry at Talkers 2017: A New Era in New York City on June 2. See details here.
WBAL, Baltimore Names Jeff Wade News Director. Baltimore news/talk WBAL “Newsradio 1090” names Jeff Wade news director, effective June 5. Wade comes to the Hearst Television-owned station from his most 
recent position with Binnie Media’s Concord, New Hampshire operations as director of news and talk programming. During his career, he’s also served with Saga Communications at news/talk WGAN, Portland as news director. WBAL president and general manager Cary Pahigian states, “Jeff has a deep appreciation for WBAL’s zealous commitment to 24/7 news coverage. His leadership, along with the skills and experience of our news team, will allow WBAL to fortify its position as Maryland’s leading radio news source.” Speaking about his new gig, Wade remarks, “I’m excited to be joining WBAL and the Hearst team. This is one of America’s iconic radio stations with a proud legacy as a news leader staffed by an all-star team of experienced and knowledgeable talent.”
iHeartMedia Promotes Programmer Brian Hall. Programming pro Brian Hall is upped to senior vice president of programming at the company’s Asheville operations. Hall has most recently been serving as program
director for the company’s news/talk WWNC “News Radio 570,” progressive talk WPEK “880 The Revolution” in Asheville and WGVL, Greenville, South Carolina “FOX Sports 1440.” Music stations in the cluster include: adult hits W249AR “97,7 The Brew,” country WKSF “99.9 Kiss Country,” CHR WQNQ “Star 104.3,” and classic rock WQNS “Rock 105.1.” iHeartMedia area president for Asheville, Greenville and Greensboro Bill McMartin states, “Brian’s vast experience in Asheville will really help us continue to dominate the market in every format. We have an experienced team in Asheville who all have great respect for Brian and his ability to lead our programming efforts.”
Adam Carolla and Dennis Prager Begin Crowdfunding Effort for Free Speech Film. Yes, that’s right, conservative media figure and divinity scholar Dennis Prager, and podcaster/comic and atheist Adam Carolla are teaming up to produce a film titled, No Safe Spaces, that addresses the effects of political correctness on 
America’s college campuses. The idea for the film came about after the unlikely duo’s recent scheduled appearance at UC Northridge was cancelled by the administration. The event did go on after their lawyers pressured the college and their speeches were taped for the film. Now, they are beginning an Indiegogo campaign to raise $1 million over the next few weeks to complete production of the feature-length film that will examine the effects of political correctness on college campuses and how the phenomenon will affect America’s future as restrictions on free speech move beyond the campus to American society. Prager comments, “This is a story that must be told because the future of our country literally depends on what happens on these campuses. If these students don’t understand the very concept of free speech, our whole nation is in trouble.” The film takes Prager and Carolla to college campuses across the country, interviewing students and professors, comedians and commentators on the left and right, and those who have been impacted by the silencing of different voices on campus, analyzing the value of so-called safe-spaces.
PPM Analysis: Baseball Flagships. How did the first month of the 2017 Major League Baseball season go for radio play-by-play flagships? TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian addresses that very question, reporting on the 6+ performances of baseball flagship stations based on data from the April 2017 PPM survey from Nielsen Audio. Ten stations saw their 6+ numbers go up at least one full share, with CBS RADIO’s KMOX, St. Louis shooting up 2.2 shares to an 8.4 share (and good for a #1 market rank). iHeartMedia’s WLW, Cincinnati was close behind, rising by 2.1 to a 9.3 share. See the whole report here.
TALKERS News Notes. In Chicago, Salem Media Group adjusts its programming on news/talk WIND by
moving the Salem Radio Network’s Larry Elder show from overnights (1:00 am to 3:00 am) to the 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm slot, followed by its “Jay Sekulow Live” program at 9:00 pm. The shows bump the Dave Ramsey program from the station’s program schedule, effective June 1…..Next season, Detroit Pistons games will be heard on CBS RADIO’s sports talk WXYT-FM, moving from Beasley’s crosstown WMGC. The NBA club’s games were originally heard on WMGC when it was a sports talk station – “Detroit Sports 105.1” – and remained there after the station flipped to classic hip hop and R&B. In the event of conflicts on WXYT-FM, Pistons games will move to the company’s all-news WWJ-AM.
Manchester Bombing Aftermath, Trump’s International Trip, Trump-Russia Investigation, Obama MS-13 Controversy, China Criticizes U.S. Ship Movement, Trump Budget Proposal, and MLB, NBA and NHL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/24). The arrests of family members of Manchester bomber Salman Abedi and the task of preventing more attacks; President Donald Trump’s trip abroad; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia; a whistleblower alleges Obama’s Unaccompanied Children policy allowed MS-13 gang members to be settled in the U.S.; China lashes out at the U.S. after a Navy destroyer sails within 12 miles of its military, man-made island; the Congressional Budget Office’s report on the Trump Administration budget proposal; and MLB, NBA and NHL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Cool Programming Opportunity. The Springfield, Illinois operations of Mid-West Family Broadcasting is seeking an operations manager for the four-station cluster consisting of news/talk WMAY-AM, adult contemporary WNNS, rock WQLZ, and country WUSW. The company is seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications: Love to coach and develop talent, especially in the talk format; can do an airshift in multiple formats; understand that a digital plan is not a banner ad and a station stream; realize that a remote appearance is the exact opposite of being remote to listeners; know how to make Selector sing; have the instincts to do it your way and not wait for a corporate mandate. If this sounds too good to be true, it’s not. It’s Mid-West Family Broadcasting in the Land of Lincoln: Springfield, Illinois. Mid-West is an employee-owned company. If you want to talk in strict confidence, send an e-mail, resume and salary requirements to Harvey Wells at: hwells@mwfbmedia.com. What’s sent to Springfield stays in Springfield. Mid-West Family Broadcasting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. With the move of rock radio pro Jay Philpott from Cumulus Media’s WNNX, Atlanta to its Twin Cities rocker KQRS, the company is seeking Philpott’s replacement for the afternoon drive show on WNNX…..Hubbard Broadcasting VP/regional manager of Minnesota Dan Seeman announces that Jeff Hilborn is named general manager for the Hubbard Broadcasting radio stations in Brainerd, Minnesota. Hilborn will oversee adult contemporary WJJY, classic rock KLIZ-FM “The Power Loon,” country KBLB “B93.3,” oldies KUAL “KOOL 103.5,” sports talk KLIZ-AM and business news KVBR-AM. The stations were part of the group of 16 Omni Broadcasting outlets acquired by Hubbard the 2015 transaction. Hilborn will replace retiring general manager Mike Boen.
Thursday, May 4, 2017
iHeartMedia Posts Q1 Consolidated Revenue Dip of 2.4%. In today’s release of 2017 first quarter financial data, iHeartMedia reports consolidated revenue was $1.32 billion – down 2.4% from the same period in 2016. That figure includes the Americas Outdoor and International Outdoor segments, which both saw revenue decreases. The iHeartMedia segment’s revenue was $757 million – up 2.5% from the first quarter of 2016. The report also notes that the revenue increase was “driven primarily by increases in trade and barter, sponsorship and other revenues 
surrounding our live events, and digital, as well as our core radio business. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in political advertising revenues and lower revenue from our traffic and weather business.” Once again, the company includes language about its tenuous debt situation in a section that details its payments and coming obligations: “For the year ended December 31, 2016, we adopted a new accounting standard that requires us to evaluate on a quarterly basis whether there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern for a period of 12 months following the date our financial statements are issued. A substantial amount of our cash requirements are for debt service obligations. Although we have generated operating income, we incurred net losses and had negative cash flows from operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, as well as for the quarter ended March 31, 2017. Our current operating plan indicates we will continue to incur net losses and generate negative cash flows from operating activities given iHeartCommunications’ indebtedness and related interest expense. During the quarter ended March 31, 2017, we spent $570.4 million of cash on payments of principal and interest on our debt, net of facility draws and proceeds received, and anticipate having approximately $1.7 billion of cash interest payment obligations for the full year 2017. At March 31, 2017, we had debt maturities totaling $316.5 million, $324.2 million and $8,369.0 million in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. Our debt maturities at March 31, 2017 include $305.0 million outstanding under our receivables based credit facility, which matures on December 24, 2017, and $112.1 million of 10% Senior Notes due January 15, 2018. Based on the significance of the forecasted future negative cash flows, including the maturities of the $305.0 million receivables based credit facility and the $112.1 million 10% Senior Notes due January 15, 2018, and the uncertainty of the outcomes of the notes exchange offers and term loan offers, management has determined that there is substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern for a period of 12 months following May 4, 2017 as a result of uncertainty around our ability to refinance or extend the maturity of our receivables based credit facility, to achieve our forecasted results and to achieve sufficient cash interest savings from the pending notes exchange offers and term loan offers.”
Radio Advertising Down 8.7% in First Quarter for Radio One; Company Name Change to Urban One Effective Tomorrow. The radio advertising sector of Radio One, Inc’s first quarter of 2017 garnered $46.1 million – a decrease from the same period in 2016. Net revenue for the entire company was $101.2 million – down 7.1% from Q1 in 2016. Radio One president and CEO Alfred C. Liggins, III says, “A combination of tough political comps in radio, and non-recurring major client spending at Reach Media, made for a weak start to the year in
radio advertising. TV One ratings held up well overall (+4% Household, and flat 24-54 total day), although we were down in the younger-end demographic. Despite this, we were able to post growth in Adjusted EBITDA for the division. Our digital business will be bolstered by the acquisition of the Bossip and Madame Noire brands, which will be immediately accretive. MGM National Harbor continues to perform well, and we have accrued approximately $1.5 million of income in the first quarter. We remain committed to growing our cash flow in 2017, despite the slow start to the year. Our name change to Urban One will become effective on May 5th, and will better reflect our diversified multimedia platform.”
Saga Communications Down 4.1% in First Quarter. Net revenue for the first quarter of 2017 for Saga Communications was $31.4 million, down 4.1% from the same period a year ago. The company attributes that 
decline primarily to reduction in political revenue of $1.3 million from the same quarter in 2016. For the quarter, station operating expense increased 1.5% to $25.1 million (station operating expense includes depreciation and amortization attributable to the stations). Operating income decreased $1.9 million to $3.5 million. Free cash flow for the quarter was $3.2 million.
GOP Health Care Bill, Comey Hearing, Hillary Clinton Interview, Colbert’s Anti-Trump Rant, North Korea Tensions, Cop Slays Texas Teen, French Presidential Race, and MLB, NBA and NHL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/3). The GOP’s plans to put its American Health Care Act to a vote today; the controversy over FBI Director James Comey’s testimony about notifying Congress about new emails in the Hillary Clinton investigation just days before the election; Hillary Clinton’s interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour; the flap over Stephen Colbert’s use of sexual language in his anti-Trump rant; North Korea’s jab at China and its threats against the U.S.; the slaying of a 15-year-old black boy by a Balch Springs, Texas cop; the French presidential race between far-right candidate Marine Le Pen and moderate Emmanuel Macron; and MLB, NBA and NHL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS News Notes. Former “Saturday Night Live” star and current WNYM, New York “AM 970 The Answer” morning personality Joe Piscopo announces he will not be running for Governor of New Jersey, after all. Piscopo
had been entertaining running as a Republican but now says he’ll back current Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno…..Anthem Broadcasting LLC, the parent of USA Radio Networks, announces a “$1.25 million investment” in the company by Florida based Innerself Marketing. Anthem Broadcasting LLC was formed by Liftable Media Inc in 2015 to acquire the assets of USA Radio. USA Radio CEO Floyd Brown says, “We have experienced and amazing turnaround at USA Radio since the fall of 2015. But it is about to get better. Innerself Marketing is the perfect partner to strengthen and build USA Radio Networks. Innerself is a marketing dynamo, and the combination of an outstanding radio platform and an advertising powerhouse will lead to even greater success.”…..NPR sports commentator Frank Deford announces that he’s retiring from his gig on the “Morning Edition” program. Deford was working for Sports Illustrated when he began doing 
commentaries for NPR back in 1980…..The real-life couple Kate Fagan and Kathryn Budig are launching a new podcast called “Free Cookies” from espnW and ESPN Audio. Fagan writes for espnW and makes appearances on “SportsCenter.” Budig is a best-selling author and yoga expert. In the premiere episode, the two speak to soccer star Abby Wambach…..The “America Outdoors Radio” program that focuses on fishing, hunting and shooting sports, announces it signs up new affiliate stations KBRV, Soda Springs, Idaho; KNYN, Evanston, Wyoming; and KELA, Centralia, Washington. “America Outdoors Radio” is hosted and produced by John Kruse and is sponsored by Media Index Publishing…..This Saturday is the 143rd running of the Kenturcky Derby and Westwood One is presenting national radio and audio streaming coverage of the race in conjunction with NBC Sports Radio and the Horse Racing Radio Network. Mike Penna is serving as anchor. Derby coverage is also being presented on SiriusXM.
Dave Ramsey Celebrating 25th Anniversary of Radio Show. This year, Dave Ramsey is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his nationally syndicated radio program. He begins today by including special anniversary segments on the show. Ramsey’s show launched in 1992 and the Ramsey Solutions company says that “no one could have predicted the show’s longevity or its continued growth.” Dave Ramsey says, “The radio show happened by accident. I lost everything because I was stupid and borrowed too much money. When I discovered and applied common-sense financial principles in my own life and began teaching them, a friend invited me on a little brokered radio station to help people with their money problems. I’m sure our delivery was horrendous, but we offered truth, instruction and hope. We’ve refined that over the years, because that’s what people need.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Detroit morning show Dave & Chuck – Dave Hunter and Chuck “The Freak” Urquhart with co-host Lisa Way – are re-upped for four years by Beasley Media Group to continue hosting their program on rock WRIF. The show launched at WRIF in 2013 and has since added co-host Andy
Green, producer James Campbell and video editor Jason Watson. Beasley Detroit market manager Mac Edwards says, “Of course, we extended their contracts! Dave and Chuck have crushed the competition and dominated Detroit’s morning radio for men and women, ranking #1 in every key demo including 18 to 34, 18 to 49 and 25 to 54! We value their amazing talent and are fortunate to work with them.”…..Hubbard Radio’s classic rock WDRV, Chicago “The Drive” announces it has hired Chicago media pro Jill Egan to serve as producer for the “Sherman & Tingle” morning show, featuring Brian Sherman and Steve Tingle. Egan says, “Producing a radio show is the most challenging, but also the most rewarding, position I’ve held in my broadcast career. Sherman and Tingle are both extraordinarily talented, hilarious, hard-working, and genuine guys. I share the same drive to succeed as they do.”…..Chicago media maven Robert Feder reports that Kathy Hart – one half of the WTMX morning show team with Eric Ferguson – has been off the show since April 27 with little explanation from management. Feder writes that Hubbard Radio Chicago VP and market manager Jeff England is simply saying, “Kathy is taking some time off.” Co-host Ferguson is apparently also in the dark as to what’s going on. Read Feder’s column here.
CBS RADIO Creates MusicTown Venue in Detroit. A new multi-use space called MusicTown is being constructed by CBS RADIO Detroit, in association with Olympia Entertainment. It’s designed to “host and
celebrate music, culture and entertainment in the city of Detroit.” It will be located inside Hockeytown Café, within the 50-block, mixed-use sports and entertainment development known as The District Detroit. MusicTown will consist of a new broadcast studio, recording studio and performance space. CBS says it will “support artists, educate children of all ages and celebrate the Detroit community and its visitors through lifestyle, collaboration and entertainment.” CBS RADIO Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon says, “We are strongly committed to continuing Detroit’s tradition as a great ‘Music City.’ By identifying new talent and sharing the many music stories that Detroit has inspired, this initiative will help celebrate a once-booming industry in our great city, stimulating significant economic growth in the region along the way.”
Tuesday, March 8, 2017
Saga Communications Reports Net Revenue Up 4.7% in Q4; Radio Segment Rises 2.6%. The company operates both radio and television stations and the 4.7% net revenue increase on $37.3 million is for the company as a whole. The radio segment’s fourth quarter net revenue was $30.3 million – an increase of 2.6%. For the whole of 2016, the radio segment was up 6.2% on net revenue of $119 million.
Radio One Fourth Quarter Revenue Rises 3.8% on Strength of Television and Political Advertising. Of the four major categories of revenue that Radio One reports – radio advertising, political advertising, digital advertising, and cable television advertising the latter three saw healthy increases while radio advertising dipped 8.5% in the fourth quarter of 2016. It’s far and away the biggest category with net revenue of $51.02 million. Cable television advertising was up 18.1% on net revenue of $22.67 million. For the year of 2016, Radio One’s radio broadcasting net revenue was down 1.5% on $194.5 million.
DGital Media and Essence Partner for ‘Yes, Girl!’ Podcast. A new collaboration between audio
entertainment firm DGital Media and Essence results on the new podcast “Yes, Girl!” The weekly podcast – available via iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn and more – “allows Essence editors to marry two things that they love: podcasts and buzzworthy interviews with bold, beautiful and brilliant women of color.” The show is hosted by Essence editors Cori Murray and Yolanda Sangweni — along with relationships editor and resident “love guru” Charli Penn. “Yes, Girl!” will also feature conversations with celebs and influencers.
TALKERS News Notes. A group of podcast producers is working together throughout the month of March to promote podcast listening to the public. Dubbed #trypod, the movement includes the hosts of hundreds of podcasts encouraging listeners to seek out friends who aren’t podcast listeners to get them to try it. Listeners are encouraged to share their favorite podcasts and why they listen with the hashtag #trypod. Content creators and platform
operators involved include: NPR, WNYC, iHeartRadio, Midroll, ESPN, and others…..United Stations Radio Networks names Neil Barry to its advertising sales department as executive director/brand sponsorships. Barry has spent the past 25 years in the media industry serving with companies including: CBS RADIO, CBS Local, Cox Digital Solutions and ABC Radio Networks…..Emmis Communications adds another FM signal to its sports talk radio brand “The Fan” originating from WFNI, Indianapolis. Translator W298BB at 107.5 FM will begin airing the station, effective March 30. Emmis says that it is working with the FCC to resolve the interference problem from translator W228CX at 93.5, the signal that’s been the format’s FM presence…..Westwood One EVP of News & Talk Bart Tessler announces that Westwood One News renews some of its key top 10 market client stations and adds a couple more. The company says it renews with CBS RADIO all-newsers WINS, New York; KYW, Philadelphia; WBZ, Boston; and adds WWJ, Detroit. Now, also carrying Westwood One News are the Bloomberg major market stations WBBR, New York; WDCH, Washington; WXKS-AM, Boston; and KNEW-AM, San Francisco. Westwood One News is also airing on SiriusXM’s POTUS and Progress channels.
ObamaCare Overhaul, North Korean Missile Threat, Trump’s Obama Wiretapping Allegations, Ben Carson Speech Flap, New Travel Ban Signed, Sessions-Russia Case, and NBA-NHL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/6). The Trump Administration’s and the GOP’s plans to alter the Affordable Care Act; North Korea’s aggressive development of its missile program and the U.S.’ moving forward with installing an anti-missile defense system in South Korea; The Trump Administration’s continuing charge that President Obama ordered the wiretapping of Trump Tower; the reactions to HUD Secretary Ben Carson’s allusion to slaves as immigrants; President Trump signs the new travel order; Attorney General Jeff Sessions statements that he did not mislead the confirmation committee by not disclosing his meetings with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak; and NBA and NHL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. By splitting KDEY-FM, Ontario, California off the simulcast of Los Angeles urban signal KDAY, Meruelo Media re-launches hip hop KDEY-FM as “The New Wild 93.5” in the Riverside-San Bernardino market. Meruelo Media president and COO Otto Padron says, “This much-awaited Riverside
metro launch comes after a long process of engineering, design and market studies. It adds a key radio asset to our growing portfolio of highly recognized media brands in one of the fastest-growing markets. The saving and growing of heritage Los Angeles radio station KDAY has been a thrilling, three-year ride – we owe it to our music fans to keep innovating and expanding – Riverside is key.” Program director Adrian “AD” Scott adds, “Los Angeles loves KDAY – Riverside will love ‘WILD!’ This is the Inland Empire’s new home for hip hop and R&B, listeners in the ‘I.E.’ will know the difference and love the sound that the new ‘Wild 93.5’ brings.”…..Longtime KNCN, Corpus Christi “C101” rock radio personality Dan Rios returns to the iHeartMedia rock station where he had been half of the “2 Guys in the Morning” show with Rex Gabriel from 1996 through 2006, reuniting with Rex for the new “2 Guys” show. Rios had been hosting afternoons at Withers Family Texas Holdings’ crosstown alternative KYRK “106.5 The Shark.”…..On the heels of Sean McMasters’ recent exit from its Albany country outlet WGNA, Townsquare Media brings market pros Brian Cody and Chrissy Cavotta aboard to host the “Brian and Chrissy” morning drive show. The pair was most recently at Pamal’s crosstown CHR WFLY…..Entravision Communications chief strategy officer Esteban Lopez Blanco is named the recipient of Borrell Associates’ 2017 Award of Merit for outstanding leadership and innovation in local media. The award was presented yesterday (3/6) before the more than 300 media executives at Borrell’s 8th annual Local Online Advertising Conference at the Grand Hyatt in Manhattan. Borrell Associates CEO Gordon Borrell comments, “Esteban is one of those internal guiding forces that any company would be lucky to have. His work with Entravision’s TV and radio group has made the company a shining example among not only Hispanic media, but all local media, about how to embrace the future and make it their own.”
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Salem Third Quarter Net Broadcast Revenue Up 3.2%. Chief executive officer Edward Atsinger said on the Q3 conference call that Salem Media Group’s total revenue was up 5.6% but expenses were up 7.3%, “resulting in a 1.5% decrease in adjusted EBITDA.” Atsinger said the expenses increase was almost entirely the result of 
increased health care costs. Back to the numbers, in the Broadcast segment, net broadcast revenue was $51.1 million, an increase of 3,2% over the same period a year ago. However, station operating income decreased by 2.1%. Atsinger reported that although they booked $1 million of broadcast political revenue during the quarter, that was down about 20% from the same period during the 2012 campaign. However, Atsinger adds, “Network revenue was up 29.2% for the quarter. Obviously, this extraordinary political year is a major driver in this revenue growth, and our nationally syndicated hosts have significantly increased their profile beyond the exposure of their own radio programs, which has resulted in an increased time spent listening to their shows and better response for advertisers, all of which has led to higher renewals, higher rates of renewals, and additional advertising clients.”
Townsquare Media Net Revenue Flat in Q3. On a pro forma basis, Townsquare Media’s Local Marketing Solutions segment – the one that includes broadcast and digital – saw net revenue increase 3.8% over the same period a year ago. It was the Entertainment segment – live events – that had a tough quarter and drew the company down to a net revenue decrease of 0.8%. Townsquare Media chairman and CEO Steven Price says, “On a pro
forma basis, our Local Marketing Solutions segment continued its positive momentum by delivering another quarter of solid growth, with net revenue increasing approximately 4% over the prior year period. These results were offset by a decline in our Entertainment segment due primarily to exceptionally poor weather at four of our largest fairs. Excluding those fairs, Townsquare’s pro forma net revenue and Adjusted EBITDA increased approximately 2% and 3%, respectively.” For the first nine months of the year, Townsquare’s (pro forma) net revenue is up 2.2% and the Local Marketing Solutions segment is up 5.1%.
Saga Communications Q3 Net Revenue Rises 6.8%. Reporting financial data for the third quarter of 2016, Saga Communications’ net revenue was $36.1 million – an increase of 6.8% over the same period a year ago. Breaking the radio segment out from the television segment, radio’s net revenue was $29.8 million – an increase of 4.6% over 2015’s third quarter. For the year so far, Saga’s net revenue is $105.3 million – up 8.3% over the first nine months of 2015.
WABC, New York Officially Names Sid Rosenberg Imus Sports Anchor. A press release from Cumulus Media’s WABC, New York officially announces that Sid Rosenberg is returning to the “Imus in the Morning”
show to serve as sports anchor, however the presser makes no mention of Warner Wolf, who exited the show suddenly on Friday (11/4). WABC program director Craig Schwalb comments, “Sid’s triumphant return to ‘Imus In The Morning’ has reunited him with an incredibly gifted cast. Their collective chemistry is exceptional.” Rosenberg adds, “I’m really excited to be back with Imus and the guys in the same role where it all started for me nearly 17 years ago.” Rosenberg will continue to co-host the late morning show with now-fellow Imus cast member Bernard McGuirk.
NAB to Sue FCC Over Quadrennial Review. This suit must be filed by Monday and that is presumably what the National Association of Broadcasters will do as EVP of media relations Dennis Wharton says it’s 
difficult to believe the Federal Communications Commission could recommend (on a 3-2 party line vote) going forward with decades-old policy when technology is
moving the industry ahead at the speed of light. The cross-ownership rules seem particularly out of date considering what’s been going on in other sectors of the media, says Wharton, who tells Broadcasting and Cable, “Broadcasters want to compete in the digital age and continue being a trusted source for local news and information, but FCC rules need to reflect 2016 and not the 1960s. It defies belief that the FCC allows AT&T/DirecTV and Charter/Time Warner mergers while barring two Topeka TV stations from combining, or a radio station from buying a newspaper.”
Today’s Presidential Election; the U.S. House and Senate Races; Voter Fraud and Poll Hacking Concerns; UVA Administrator Awarded $3 Million in Rolling Stone Rape Story Case; Hillary Clinton’s Emails Troubles; and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/7). The presidential race between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton; the down-ticket races for U.S. House and Senate seats; concerns over voter fraud and the possibility of hacking the electronic polls; a jury awards a University of Virginia administrator $3 million in her case against Rolling Stone and the author of a discredited story about a gang rape at the school; the private email server case surrounding Hillary Clinton’s campaign; and the weekend’s NFL Action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Ginny Morris to Chair RAB Board of Directors. The Radio Advertising Bureau announces the new slate of officers recently to its board of directors and new, incoming directors. Chairperson and CEO of Hubbard Radio Ginny Morris is elected chair of the RAB board of directors. Cox Media Group RVP Susan Larkin is
the vice chair. The finance chair is Steve Newberry, president and CEO of Commonwealth 
Broadcasting. The secretary is Mike Hulvey, COO, Neuhoff Communications, and immediate past chair is Hartley Adkins, president, Northeast Division & Corporate Operations, iHeartMedia. Newly elected directors are: Brian Beasley, EVP, chief operating officer, Beasley Media Group; Jonathan Brewster, CEO/president, Cherry Creek Radio LLC; Mike Tarter, president/CEO, Forcht Broadcasting; and Sabina Widmann, VP, general manager/director of sales, radio, Univision Radio. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber says, “We are excited to have Ginny Morris at the helm of the RAB board of directors. With Ginny’s tremendous experience and passion for this industry, the organization is well-positioned to continue to lead and advocate for radio.”
Monday, August 8, 2016
CBS Sacto Raises Rufer to VP/Programming. Hot AC KZZO “Now 100.5,” Sacramento program director Chad Rufer is boosted to vice president programming of CBS Radio‘s five-station cluster – which includes “Now 100.5” – in California’s capitol city. CBS Radio Sacramento senior vice president and market manager Steve Cottingim comments, “I am looking forward to working with Chad on cluster-wide programming initiatives. He
has consistently delivered outstanding results. I am confident that he will have a significant impact growing ratings for the cluster.” Rufer remarks, “I am very humbled by the trust that Steve Cottingim and the executive team at CBS Radio has in me. Taking on this new role and being surrounded by such an all-star programming team is truly a dream come true.” Prior to joining CBS Radio Sacramento six years ago, Rufer was director of programming for Fort Myers Broadcasting Company; programmed KKMG, Colorado Springs; and operations manager of Saga Communications Clarksville, Tennessee. With each station’s July 2016 6+-share and 6+-rank in parentheses, the CBS Sacramento cluster consists of adult contemporary KYMX “Mix 96” (7.6, #2); hot AC KZZO “Now 100.5” (4.7, #5); country KNCI (4.4, #7); rhythmic CHR KSFM “KS-102.5” (3.5, #10); and KHTK “Sports 1140” (1.3, #20).
LA Rams Ready NFL Return with Radio Team. The city of Los Angeles welcomes back the NFL with the return of the Rams from St. Louis. As TALKERS reported last Friday (8/5), former Rams player D’Marco Farr announced that after seven years, he is leaving Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WXOS, St. Louis “101 ESPN” and the afternoon drive “The Fast Lane” show for “new
opportunities.” From the “That Didn’t Take Long” file, the “new opportunity” for Farr is handling sideline reporting for the team’s English-language radio broadcasts on flagship ESPN Sports KSPN “ESPN LA 710” and simulcast partner Entercom classic rocker KSWD “100.3 The Sound.” Set to call game action and analysis are J.B. Long from the Pac-12 Network and former UCLA, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Oakland Raiders running back Maurice Jones Drew. KNBC-TV (channel 4), Los Angeles weekend sports anchor Mario Solis and Fox Deportes’ Troy Santiago will call the games on the team’s Spanish-language flagship – Lotus Spanish sports KWKW “ESPN Deportes 1330.” KSPN vice president and general manager Scott McCarthy states, “We could not be more thrilled about the broadcast team who will be bringing Rams games to life for listeners in Southern California and beyond. J.B., Maurice, and D’Marco are experienced and outstanding play-by-play broadcasters. We look forward to hearing them on ‘ESPN LA 710’ during Rams games and also during the week.” KWKW director of programming Juan Rodriguez comments, “Mario Solis and Troy Santiago are admired by the Latino sports enthusiasts for their professionalism and the profound emotion which they bring to each and every broadcast.” Rams chief operating officer Kevin Demoff remarks, “We are excited these two dynamic teams will bring our games to fans across the region in our first season back in Los Angeles. All of these announcers combine unique experience, passion for the game, and ties to Southern California, which will help connect our fans to Rams football during this historic year.” KSPN midday co-host Steve Mason; former Raiders, Jaguars, and Buffalo Bills linebacker Kirk Morrison; and former NFL cornerback Eric Davis will do KSPN’s three-hour pre-game show. Meanwhile, KSPN morning co-host Travis Rodgers will host the two-hour post-game show, while Jeff Biggs will report at halftime. Among persons 6+ in Nielsen Audio’s July 2016 PPM report for Los Angeles, KSWD ranks #16 (2.6); KSPN #32 (1.0); and KWKW is unlisted.
Max Media Norfolk Cuts Ties With Nielsen Audio. When 
Norfolk PPM ratings information was released last Thursday (8/4), five Max Media outlets were noticeably absent and the reason was a financial decision. In a message to clients and agencies, Max Media Norfolk general manager Dave Paulis explained why the cluster is no longer a Nielsen Audio subscriber. “This decision is one we have been discussing for many years,” he writes, “and it comes down to one simple issue – return on investment. Since the advent of PPM in this marketplace in 2008, ratings have dwindled to the point where even the leading stations are not in the position to price [themselves] to match their market position. The elimination of this burdensome subscription will allow Max to diversify, make our products better, and free up dollars to market the radio stations.” Noted with June 2016 6+-rank and 6+-share in parentheses, Max Media Norfolk includes classic hits-oldies WVBW “92.9 The Wave” (#3, 6.0); country WGH-FM “Eagle 97.3” (5.0, #7); CHR WVHT “Hot 100.5” (#9, 3.8); sports WVSP “ESPN Radio 94.1″ (#12, 2.3); and gospel WGH-AM “Star 1310” (#15, 1.9).
Turnbeaugh Takes Over As iHM Nevada/Central California Programmer. Senior vice president of programming for iHeartMedia Las Vegas JoJo 
Turnbeaugh is elevated to senior vice president of programming for the company’s stations in Nevada and central California. According to Nevada/central California region president Glynn Alan, “JoJo’s broad scope of both format and multi-market experience – combined with his winning attitude and track record – will bring extensive benefits to our region.” The region’s executive vice president of programming Steve Geofferies comments, “JoJo has a history in the central California region and he knows the brands in each of those markets. He added new duties earlier this year and created exceptional results in Las Vegas. We expect more of the same for our region.” Turnbeaugh remarks, “I am honored by the faith and trust that Glynn Alan and Steve Geofferies are placing in me. I am also very excited to work with the great team of leaders already in the region.” Turnbeaugh previously programmed KCCY, Colorado Springs; was assistant program director for KKFN “104.3 The Fan,” Denver; and was an on-air talent at KYGO, Denver.
Westwood One, Dr. Gupta Extend Their Partnership. Practicing neurosurgeon and CNN‘s multiple Emmy award winning chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta signs a multi-year agreement to continue hosting Westwood One’s “A Better Life with Dr. Sanjay Gupta.” Westwood One chief operating officer Charles Steinhauer comments, “Dr. Gupta is one of the most trusted voices on health issues. We are delighted to extend our relationship so that we can continue to meet the demand of listeners who want to live better lives.” Dr. Gupta notes, “I am tremendously excited about the opportunity to share the secrets of a happier and healthier life that I have learned as a doctor and as a roving reporter who has traveled the world for the last 15 years. There are little things we can do to live a better life and I will teach you how to make them a part of your life.” The weekday, 60-second feature airs on 400 stations, including nine of the top ten markets.
The Presidential Race, US Cash Payment to Iran, Rio Olympics Troubles/Action, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend (8/6-7). The activities of presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump; the controversy over the US’ payment of $400 million to Iran the day Americans were released from that country; the problems facing Rio De Janeiro (as well as the actual action of the games) as it entered its opening weekend; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio this past weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Odds & Sods. Returning for its second season this Thursday (8/11) is “Undeniable with Joe Buck,” a weekly show produced for radio by AT&T/DirecTV, and Vince Vaughn‘s Wild West Television. Affiliates include Entercom sports outlet KGMZ “The Game,” San Francisco; CBS Radio Washington, D.C.’s WJFK “106.7 The Fan”; iHeartMedia-owned KGME, Phoenix; and CBS Radio St. Louis talker KMOX. Among those Buck will interview in season two are Brett Favre, Sugar Ray Leonard, Joe Torre, Joe Theismann, and Kerri Walsh Jennings ….. Oldies WKVA, State College-Lewistown (Pennsylvania) becomes the 38th affiliate of “Animal Radio News Update,” a minute-long, weekday segment featuring worldwide pet news. Host Hal Abrams comments that, “America’s love affair with their pets is growing at breakneck speed. With the pet industry nearing $63 billion dollars yearly, more and more stations are realizing a new way to increase revenue with our weekday offerings.”
Thursday, June 2, 2016
John Clayton to Host Daily Show on KIRO-AM, Seattle. Seattle-based ESPN writer and commentator John Clayton expands his role with Bonneville sports talker KIRO-AM “710 ESPN” to include hosting a daily 10:00 am to 12:00 noon show, effective June 6. Clayton has been appearing on
the station’s local shows for several years and he’ll continue to be heard weekdays at 7:15 am on “Brock and Salk,” weekdays at 4:00 pm on “Danny, Dave & Moore,” and Saturdays on his own 9:00 am to 12:00 noon show. Clayton says, “I’ve spent 30 years in the Pacific Northwest, and the time couldn’t have been better to expand my local presence here at 710 ESPN Seattle. I’m also excited to focus on the Seahawks, Mariners and the Seattle sports scene in an expanded role for 710sports.com.” Station VP/GM Dave Pridemore adds, “We are thrilled at the opportunity to include the most highly acclaimed local sports media personality to our local weekday lineup. With over 1.4 million Twitter followers and a Hall of Fame résumé, John Clayton will be a tremendous addition for both 710 ESPN Seattle and 710sports.com.”
The Presidential Race, Hillary Clinton Emails Investigation, the Zika Virus, UCLA Professor Shooting, Cincinnati Gorilla Case, and NBA-NHL Finals Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/1). The activities of the candidates for president; the ongoing investigation into Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server for State Department business; concerns about the spread of the Zika virus and the Obama Administration’s plans to combat the spread of the virus; the murder of a UCLA professor allegedly by a student upset about his grades; the aftermath of the euthanizing of a rare gorilla at the Cincinnati Zoo after a child entered the animal’s enclosure; and the NBA and NHL Finals were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Longtime Central Arkansas Newsman Killed in Auto Crash. KARN-FM, Little Rock morning news anchor Gary Digiuseppe was driving from his home to the station early yesterday morning (6/1) when his car was struck head on by a woman driving the wrong way on I-430. Both Digiuseppe and the unidentified woman died in the accident. Digiuseppe anchored the news on KARN-FM’s “First News with Kevin Miller.” He leaves behind his wife, Mary.
Deirdre Palmer Named GSM for Beasley Las Vegas. Sin City sales pro Deirdre Palmer joins the Beasley Media Group, Inc. cluster there to serve as general sales manager. The company says that Deedy Palmer’s experience in the Las Vegas market includes two decades of radio industry experience, along with magazine and custom publishing, and most recently, vice president of sales at Las Vegas-based Kemp Broadcasting (operator of hip hop KVEG and hot AC KVGQ). Beasley Vegas director of sales Mark Sturcken says, “Deedy’s professional success and client relationships have secured millions of dollars in business over the years. I’ve had the pleasure working alongside my colleague Deedy for 10 years as senior account executives and most recently, I competed against her! Her talent, relationships and passion for our business in the Las Vegas market are second to none.”
Odds & Sods. Winston-Salem, North Carolina news/talk WSJS is moving its studios from the current location in Winston-Salem east to the town of Kernersville where the two other Crescent Media Group stations are based. Station manager Al Bunch tells the Winston-Salem Journal that the move allows them to centralize their operations. WSJS has been at its current location for almost 50 years…..Saga Communications is announcing it is paying a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share for shareholders of record on June 15. The dividend is payable on July 8…..SiriusXM is serving as the exclusive national radio broadcaster for the 116th U.S. Open Championship. The satcaster will offer listeners extensive coverage from historic Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania throughout U.S. Open week, including all four days of Championship play – June 16 through 19…..AudioBoom and the podcast series “Undisclosed” announces they’ve expanded their partnership with an exclusive premium ad sales agreement. The podcast investigates possible wrongful convictions, and producers say the series generated more than 80 million listens in its first season last year with a deep-dive into the case of The State of Maryland v Adnan Syed. The show is hosted by attorneys Rabia Chaudry, Susan Simpson, and Colin Miller. The weekly podcasts are followed by an addendum featuring Emmy Award-winning actor Jon Cryer.
Bold Gold Media Group CEO Vince Benedetto Interviewed on ‘Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison.’ One of the rising young stars of radio station group ownership, Vince Benedetto, is the guest on this week’s installment of the PodcastOne international hit “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison.” Benedetto, who just turned 40, bought his first station at 29. In slightly more than a decade, he has built Bold Gold Media Group into a chain that owns and operates nine radio stations, fifteen broadcast frequencies, and multiple digital media platforms throughout Eastern Pennsylvania and Upstate New York. Benedetto is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, a former Air Force captain and Air Force OSI special agent, where he worked on counter-intelligence, counter-terrorism and felony level investigative efforts for the Department of
Defense. In 2013, Bold Gold was nominated for a Pennsylvania Governor’s ImPAct Award for Entrepreneurialism and Vince was recently named by RadioInk magazine as one of the “Top 30 Under 40 Rising Stars in the Radio Industry.” Benedetto also established and runs a non-profit foundation providing support for young people entering broadcasting and studying the U.S. Constitution. In the podcast, Harrison and Benedetto discuss the extremely positive aspects of radio ownership that still exist in 2016 and analyze broadcast radio’s transition into the digital era. They examine the differences between the Boomer and Millennial generations (as well as Generations X and Y) and Benedetto applies his experience in the US intelligence community to the principles of operating a media business as well as commenting on the nation’s present positioning in the struggle against international terrorism. To listen to the entire podcast please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player box located on every page of Talkers.com and RadioInfo.com.
Thursday, May 5, 2016
TALKERS 2016 Conference to Feature Podcasting Panel. Attendees at this year’s TALKERS 2016 Bridging the Generations conference at Hofstra University on Friday, May 20 will have the opportunity to hear PodcastOne chairman and founder Norm Pattiz moderate “The Podcasting Session.” This panel will feature: Panoply/The Slate Group chief content officer and co-founder Andy Bowers; WOR, New York program director Tom Cuddy; Hubbard Radio SVP of programming Greg Strassell; and Edison Research VP of strategy Tom Webster. This panel discussion will
delve into the issues relevant not only to the podcasting platform itself, but also into issues AM/FM broadcasters who are also producing podcasts are dealing with. TALKERS magazine executive editor Kevin Casey says, “Podcasting is obviously a hot topic in the radio industry right now. Talk radio practitioners are eager to learn about the best practices for producing and selling this digital content and this panel discussion, led by industry pioneer Norm Pattiz, will send them home with actionable information on this nascent form of broadcasting.” TALKERS 2016 Bridging the Generations is nearing a sellout. For complete agenda information click here. To register or for sponsorship information, call 413-565-5413.
Emmis Fiscal Q4 Revenue Down 6%. The Indianapolis-based company functions on a fiscal calendar and its 2015 fourth quarter ended on February 29 of this year. Emmis Communications reports its radio net revenue was $36.4 million, down 6%. For the full fiscal year of 2015, radio revenue was $169.2 million, compared to $176.3 million in the prior year, a decrease of 4%. President and CEO Jeff Smulyan states, “Emmis’ fourth quarter was weak,
mostly due to expected underperformance in Los Angeles. The good news is our first quarter is much improved and currently pacing flat to the prior year. New York’s performance has been stellar, ratings in LA have begun to grow again, and ratings across our other radio markets are very strong. NextRadio is coming off a fantastic National Association of Broadcasters convention, and momentum is building. At NAB, it was announced that PRSS, the distribution network for public radio, is being integrated into NextRadio. Carrier and handset conversations are robust, and advertiser interest is high. In addition, we will launch in our first international market, Peru, in the coming weeks. I couldn’t be more pleased with the efforts of Paul Brenner and his team in bringing NextRadio to our industry and to listeners everywhere.”
Salem Media Group Broadcast Revenue Rises 4.2%. It was a quarter of increases all the way around for Salem Media Group. Its total revenue increased 4.4%. The broadcast segment saw revenue rise 4.2%. Digital media was up 4.6% and publishing
revenue increased 6.5%. CEO Ed Atsinger says the 4.2% broadcast sector increase “compares favorably to the market generally which was up about 1.7% at least in the markets in which we operate according to Miller Kaplan. Our block programming had another solid quarter, up 7.1%, local spot revenue grew 3.6%, network revenue grew by 16.7%. And geographically, we had a strong market performance in Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, while facing some weakness in the Dallas market.”
Radio One Reports First Quarter Revenue Hike of 3.1%. Company president and CEO Alfred Liggins III says the good first quarter news is continuing into the second quarter. For Q1 of 2016, Radio One net revenue was approximately $109.1 million, an increase of 3.1% from the same period in 2015. Station operating income was approximately $39.6 million, an increase of 10.1% from the same period in 2015. Liggins states, “We saw a sequential monthly improvement in our radio
revenues as the first quarter progressed, and that positive momentum is continuing into Q2 where we are pacing up low single digits. Political revenues were strong, which augurs well for the fourth quarter when we historically receive the bulk of political radio advertising. TV One had a strong first quarter, with growth in both advertising (+3.5%) and affiliate revenues (+12.3%). All four of our reportable segments posted year-over-year, double-digit adjusted EBITDA growth. Overall I was pleased with our 13% growth in consolidated adjusted EBITDA, the stabilization of our radio revenues, and growth of radio cash flow.”
Saga Communications Net Revenue Up 12.7%. For the radio segment of Saga Communications, the pro forma net operating revenue was up 4.6% on revenue of $27.5 million for the first quarter of the year. The company closed on its purchase of classic rock WLVQ, Columbus during the quarter and had been operating the station under an LMA since last November. Saga reports that free cash flow increased 35.4% to $4.9 million and operating income increased 40.1% to $5.3 million.
Sports Talker John Lund Crosses Street to KNBR, San Francisco. The Bay Area sports talk personality leaves Entercom’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” to become co-host of the afternoon drive show at Cumulus Media’s KNBR with Tom Tolbert. John Lund co-hosted the midday “Papa & Lund” show with Greg Papa at KGMZ. He’s also worked at KXTG-AM, Portland; KESN-FM, Dallas; WXYT-FM, Detroit; WEAE-AM, Pittsburgh; and KZNS-AM, Salt Lake City. KNBR program director Lee Hammer says, “John brings a wealth of sports knowledge and experience to KNBR. He’s worked in San Francisco for several years, and has keen insights into our Bay Area teams. KNBR fans are in for a real treat when he’s teamed up with Tom Tolbert in afternoon drive. It will definitely be ‘appointment listening.’”
Ramsey, Rich Headlining Radio Show. In a vCreative-sponsored session, financial expert/radio host Dave Ramsey will keynote this year’s Radio Show. Part of his “Cutting Edge Trends in Marketing” address at the confab, produced by the Radio Advertising Bureau and the National Association of Broadcasters, will include a conversation with country music artist John Rich (right) of the duo Big & Rich. According to RAB president and chief executive
officer Erica Farber, “We are delighted and honored that Dave Ramsey and John Rich will join us at this year’s conference. These two incredible innovators will share some great ideas. Radio Show attendees will walk away with tremendous takeaways they can then put to use immediately.” NAB executive vice president of radio John David comments, “The power of radio has contributed to the successful careers of both Dave Ramsey and John Rich. We are pleased to present these talented and engaging individuals at the Radio Show.” Ramsey’s daily syndicated eponymous radio program is heard on more than 550 stations, while his “Financial Peace” and “Total Money Makeover” books have sold more than a combined 10 million copies. He was inducted into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2013 and into the National Radio Hall of Fame two years later. The Radio Show will be held in more than four months (9/21 – 23) at Nashville’s Omni Hotel; The Ramsey-Rich session takes place the first day of the conference, Wednesday, September 21.
PodcastOne and MediaDC Launch Two New Podcasts. Two new shows are debuting on the PodcastOne platform. MediaDC, publisher of The Weekly Standard and Washington Examiner, is working with PodcastOne to present “Examining Politics by Washington Examiner” and “Weekly Standard Confab.” Washington Examiner senior congressional correspondent David Drucker hosts “Examining Politics” which will revolve around the publication’s editorial content. It’ll feature Drucker and a roundtable of staff. “The Weekly Standard Confab” is hosted by managing editor Eric Felton, who will be joined by a different guest each segment to talk about topics ranging from politics, policy and international affairs, to arts and culture. PodcastOne chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz says, “There’s just too much going on this election season for PodcastOne not to be part of it. In partnering with MediaDC to produce and distribute podcasts from The Weekly Standard and Washington Examiner, we’ve accomplished our mission.”
Odds & Sods. The USA Radio Networks-syndicated “Trending Today USA” with Rusty Humphries moves to
the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET daypart and adds a new affiliate in iHeartMedia’s WGST, Atlanta. Station PD Dan Hunt says, “Rusty has a great history in Atlanta and we are excited to have him back on Talk Radio 640 WGST. ‘Trending Today USA’ provides our listeners with the latest news and information in real time, while bringing a fresh perspective that can’t be duplicated anywhere else in the market.”…..KCSP, Kansas City sports talkers Danny Parkins and Carrington Harrison were disturbed by the Kansas City Chiefs’ decision to draft Tyreek Hill after the football player had pleaded guilty to hitting and choking his pregnant girlfriend. They decided to do something positive about it and started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for the Rose Brooks Center domestic violence shelter. So far they have raised more than $12,000.
The Presidential Race, Hillary Clinton Email Server Case, Battle Against Islamic State, North Korea Nukes, Russia-NATO Tensions, California Ups Legal Cigarette Purchase Age, and NBA-NHL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/4). GOP candidate Donald Trump secures the nomination with a victory in the Indiana primary election; allegations by Romanian hacker Guccifer that he accessed Hillary Clinton’s private email server; the death of a Navy SEAL in Iraq and the ongoing battle against Islamic State; the reported build-up of nuclear weapons by North Korea; Russia’s military posturing and threats against NATO; California becomes the second state to make tobacco purchases legal for those 21 and older; and the NBA and NHL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Saga Communications Net Revenue for 2015 Flat; Down 2.1% in Q4. Fourth quarter and 2015 full year financial figures have been released by Saga Communications and the company’s net revenue for all of 2015 was $132.9 million (basically flat at -0.9%). Comparing 2015 Q4 net revenue to the same period in 2014, the company was down 2.1% (including political). Saga reports that free cash flow increased 2.9% to $21.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. Gross revenue without political increased 0.7% for the year. Station operating expense decreased 1.2% to $97.3 million (station operating expense includes depreciation and amortization attributable to the stations). Operating income decreased $1.9 million. Net income for the year was $13.4 million ($2.29 per fully diluted share).
The Presidential Race, Battle Against Islamic State, Oberlin Prof. Controversy, Netanyahu Cancels White House Visit, U.S. Illegal Immigrant Tally, and Erin Andrews Jury Award Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/7). The activities of the candidates for president and today’s Super Tuesday 2 primaries; the U.S. drone strikes on Islamic State militia; the controversial case of an Oberlin College professor’s Israel-Jewish conspiracy theories; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s abruptly cancelled visit with the White House; a report indicating an estimated 15 million immigrants are in the U.S. illegally; and sports reporter Erin Andrews wins a $55 million jury award in her case against the man who videotaped her and the hotel at which it happen were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Michael Harrison Explores a Wide Swath of Media Theory from Cave Painting to Virtual Reality. In the latest episode of the weekly PodcastOne series “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison,” the TALKERS publisher presents a dynamic series of provocative connections casting a wide net from prehistoric cave painting to humanity’s “wiring of the solar system.” Referring back to early technology, music (“Garland to Gaga”) and culture (including his own childhood memories of playing kiddie records on a phonograph), Harrison talks about the extraordinary influence that the smart phone and other modern appliances are having on the modern human nervous system going forward into the digital era. This is a tour de force certain to stimulate Harrison’s following of “media freaks” both inside the industry and beyond. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player located in the right-hand column of every page of Talkers.com and RadioInfo.com.
KOZN, Omaha’s Nick Bahe Returns to Air This Week. Sports talk host Nick Bahe is planning to return to the air on NRG Media’s KOZN, Omaha “1620 The Zone” after being off the air since February 17 to have a tumor removed from his chest. The midday personality called in to his own program yesterday (3/7) to tell listeners that the tumor is benign and he will be back on his show this week. NRG reports that podcast plays of the program tallied close to 17,500. KOZN operations manager Dave Tepper states, “Nick has had an incredibly challenging few months with his health. His ‘Zone’ team and listeners share relief in learning his test results are healthy and that he’ll back entertaining his listeners soon.”
Kinosian: John & Leah Show 1st Year Progress Report. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian recently spoke with Envision Networks-syndicated talk personality John Ziegler about the progress his Sunday evening show is making a year into its national distribution effort. The three-hour show that features co-host Leah Brandon (who also serves as WERC, Birmingham morning news anchor) is currently heard on 22 affiliate stations – 15 of which are in the top 28 markets. Ziegler tells Kinosian, “So far, I am surprised there has not been more of a bandwagon effect. Many stations are missing a
fantastic opportunity to get their weekdays started in a strong way with this great reason for people to tune in on Sunday nights. I think this is a real missed opportunity for many stations around the country. We would like to help them take advantage of that opportunity. If every medium market manager saw our ratings success in Louisville, they would be calling Envision immediately because it is a remarkable story.” Ziegler understands the challenges of building a national show but he says he’s confident because he believes in the quality of the show. “There is so much clutter out there. If content means anything, this show will be a huge success because our content is better than [that of anyone else]. We are the only show that together has a male and a female with the expansive and unique backgrounds that Leah Brandon and I have. We are also the only show that can do both hard news and soft news in an informative and an entertaining way. No one else can bridge that gap.” Read more here.
Odds & Sods. A joint venture between Salem Radio Network and David Leach’s The Strident Conservative will give a network platform to the latter’s two-minute daily radio commentary. Leach says, “I am delighted to begin this new partnership with the Salem broadcast family. The SC combines poignant and honest opinion, mixed with a touch of sarcasm and satire, in ways that will appeal to listeners who still believe in the America envisioned by our Founding Fathers. I believe we are a perfect fit for the Salem network.”…..Sports talker KLWB, Lafayette, Louisiana is adding Houston Astros baseball to its programming this season. Delta Media Corporation says that will the addition of Astros baseball, it marks the first time in more than 10 years that the Houston club’s games have been heard in Acadiana…..According to Media Monitors, during the last 10 days, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton ran the most spots on the radio with a total of 6,815 ads – 3,738 spots from her campaign, 2,906 spots from her Super PAC Priorities USA ACTION and another 171 spots were purchased by the SEIU COPE (Service Employees International Union); Bernie Sanders was in second place with 4,589 spots (of those, the National Nurses United Patient Protection PAC placed 123 spots and the CWA Working Voices PAC added 68 spots; Ted Cruz was in third place airing 3,024 spots; 979 from his campaign and 2,045 spots by the Keep The Promise I PAC; Donald Trump For President ran 338 spots putting him in fourth place; and Marco Rubio cleared 261 spots, with 208 spots bought by the Super PAC Conservative Solutions and 53 spots by the Cuba Democracy Public Advocacy Corporation…..Dielectric will be at the 2016 NAB Show in Las Vegas in April displaying its purpose-engineered antennas and RF systems for TV and radio broadcasters. There it will display its new low- and high-power antennas to cover all power requirements; and a common case FM combiner that supports channel multiplexing across a lighter infrastructure. Dielectric general manager Keith Pelletier says, “Dielectric has invested significant engineering effort into developing economical antenna and RF solutions for FM broadcasters. Innovations include a panel antenna design for low-power broadcasters that reduces the size of the feed system by half, and a ring-style solution for high-power stations that greatly lowers the costs and complexity of sidemount installations. Inside the transmitter building, we’re returning precious real estate to tenants by eliminating components traditionally associated with the filtering process, while simplifying channel tuning. The result is high-quality engineering with a quicker return on investment for the broadcaster.”
PodcastOne Founder and CEO Norm Pattiz to Moderate ‘The Podcasting Session’ at TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations. In a panel discussion designed to serve as one of the informational centerpieces of the forthcoming TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations conference, PodcastOne
founder/CEO Norm Pattiz will serve as moderator. “The Podcast Session” will feature the legendary radio broadcasting visionary and original Westwood One founder along with an all-star array of successful talent and leading-edge executives in the emerging field of podcasting. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says, “We are delighted that Norm Pattiz will guide this extremely important session. He is clearly one of the leading experts, movers and shakers in the rise of podcasting – not just as a medium of communication – but as a mighty extension and new platform for the growth of both advertising and subscription-driven digital broadcasting, journalism and entertainment. That will be the focus of this intense panel discussion. Stand by as we announce the panel members over the coming days.” TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations will take place on Friday, May 20, 2016 on the campus of Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY. It will be the 19th annual installment of the talk radio and talk media’s longest-running and most important national convention. For more information see stories below.
WW1: Nielsen Data Highlights Strengths of NCAA Tourney Radio Audience. Stating its case for the quality of the radio audience for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, Westwood One presents data from Nielsen studies analyzing that group of consumers. The first study analyzed the NCAA listening audience in 48 Portable People Meter markets, examining reach accumulation across the entire NCAA basketball season. The second study of 1,000 college hoops fans titled, “A Day in the Life of an NCAA Fan,” investigates how the March Madness audience follows the tournament across social, video, audio and digital platforms in a variety of locations. WW1’s goal is to show that the NCAA radio audience is a more dedicated audience that its other media counterparts and presents numbers to argue for that. Among the key findings are: NCAA radio listeners are more engaged fans and consume more games on average than the general NCAA basketball audience; 87% of NCAA basketball listeners will follow/watch/listen to the full tournament through the Final, compared with 78% of the overall NCAA basketball audience; and the average number of NCAA tournament games consumed by AM/FM listeners is 12.3, compared to 10.2 for the total NCAA basketball audience. See more from the study here.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
KFWB, Los Angeles Reportedly Sold. According to Los Angeles radio maven Don Barrett, there is finally a buyer for KFWB and it involves Charlie Banta-led Mercury Capital Partners. The Los Angeles Times also reports the story but does not name a buyer. The Times writes that staffers were told about the sale on Tuesday (1/5). As many TALKERS readers are aware, KFWB has been in the KFWB Asset Trust (while still benefitting CBS RADIO’s bottom line) for a long time. Some in the market have griped that CBS hasn’t been trying very hard to sell it and was basically getting away with violating the ownership limit. Regardless, in September of 2014 the station flipped from news/talk to sports talk as “The Beast 980” and is serving as the flagship for the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers, as well. Barrett Tweets that the new owners will assume control in February and since Mercury’s M.O. is ethnic programming and brokered radio, we’re likely to see a format change next month. That would put local sports talk personalities Fred Roggin, Bill Plaschke, Jeanne Zelasko, Chris Myers, Wes Clements and more out on the street. The Times reports that a format change is a certainty.
‘The Mighty 1090’ in San Diego Names Kevin Acee Evening Host. San Diego sports talk outlet XEPRS “The Mighty 1090” is naming San Diego sportswriter Kevin Acee the host of its evening program, “Trending Now.” Acee is a columnist for the San Diego Union Tribune, a position he will continue to hold. Acee also spent seven years as the San Diego Chargers beat writer and two years covering San Diego State football. Station VP of programming and operations Mike Shepard comments, “Kevin is a multi-media sports voice in San Diego who has the unique ability to connect and provide insight to sports fans on a variety of platforms. ‘Trending Now’ is the perfect showcase of his many talents, and we enthusiastically welcome Kevin to the full-time, all-star lineup on San Diego’s Sports Leader.”
Associated Press Offers 2016 Radio Campaign Kit. A new service for this year’s presidential election is being offered by the Associated Press. It’s called the 2016 Radio Campaign Kit, and AP calls it “a turnkey advantage that gives radio members election returns and AP journalists’ digital and on-air reporting on the presidential campaign in the months leading to Election Day and the inauguration of the 45th president in January.” AP has already inked Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP, Washington, among other stations. AP says that subscribers will receive verified vote counts in their home state and surrounding areas in primaries and the November 8 general election up to 12 times an hour via online maps and other modules. The modules will show delegate counts for both political parties, the popular vote, Electoral College totals for U.S. president and the balance of power in the U.S. Congress. In addition to dynamic election-night maps, the 2016 Radio Campaign Kit provides a suite of embeddable white-label interactives for use on AP members’ digital and on-air properties, optimized for display on mobile devices, desktops and tablets. AP director of election services Brian Scanlon comments, “The AP’s 2016 Radio Campaign Kit represents an important step for us as we continue to push to make our services responsive to our members’ needs around big-event stories such as the presidential campaign.” Interested stations can contact Paul Memoli at AP via email at pmemoli@ap.org or phone 212-621-6923.
Odds & Sods. Springfield, Illinois talk personality Ray Lytle exits Saga Communications-owned news/talk WTAX in a budget-related move. Lytle had been with the station for the past two years after previously serving with Mid-West Family Broadcasting’s crosstown news/talk WMAY…..CFRA, Ottawa legendary personality Lowell Green is retiring from his daily radio show at the Bell Media talk station. The 79-year-old Green began his career in the news department at CFRA in 1960. He became a talk host six years later and has been hosting the Lowell Green show on the station since 1993. He won’t be in full retirement mode as he’ll continue to make appearances on the station…..Weekend technology talk show “Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline” announces the addition of some new affiliate stations as WGKA, Atlanta “AM 920 The Answer”; WRKO, Boston; and CKLW, Windsor, Ontario/Detroit are now carrying the program.
New York Festivals 2016 International Radio Program Awards Opens Entry Process. In addition to the announcement that the New York Festivals 2016 International Radio Program Awards are open for entries, comes news that there are three new categories this year. Those include: Biography/Profiles, Climate Change & Sustainability, and Music. The worldwide competition honoring the World’s Best Radio Programs℠ has been taking place since 1982 and receives entries from radio stations, networks, and independent producers from 32 countries around the globe. Radio program awards executive director Rose Anderson states, “New York
