Tag: "Tom Sullivan"
Thursday, July 13, 2017
Emmis Fiscal Q1 Net Revenue Down 6.7%. The silver lining in this fiscal first quarter report from Emmis Communications is that its Austin and St. Louis operations outperformed the markets. However, the radio net revenue – excluding KPWR, Los Angeles (in the process of being sold) and the Terre Haute, Indiana stations that 
were sold last year – is down 6.7%. As industry watchers are aware, Emmis is selling KPWR to an affiliate of the Meruelo Group for $82.75 million. An LMA of the station went into effect on July 1. When the deal closes, Emmis’ senior credit facility debt will be reduced by approximately 50%. Emmis CEO and chairman of the board Jeff Smulyan comments, “Emmis made difficult but necessary decisions in our first fiscal quarter – decisions that give us additional flexibility to address market challenges and opportunities. Our second fiscal quarter started strong with June up 5%, as record-setting ticket sales for our largest concert, ‘Summer Jam’ in New York, provided a nice boost. While early, both July and August are showing that our performance is improving.”
WXYT-FM, Detroit’s Mike Valenti Doing Three-Day WFAN Tryout. It’s safe to say that anyone filling in for WFAN, New York afternoon host Mike Francesa is doing a tryout for the gig Francesa will give up at the end of his contract in December. Valenti is in for Francesa Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this week and the Detroit News speculates about the possibility of losing New York native Mike Valenti
to the Big Apple in a piece by Tony Paul. Valenti and former partner Terry Foster (who retired from the show after health issues brought about by a stroke) have been dominant ratings-getters for the station. Since both stations are owned by CBS RADIO, any transition would be smooth from a contractual standpoint. As regular TALKERS readers know, CBS RADIO (soon to be merged with Entercom) operates a lot of high-performing sports talk stations, so it’s likely there will be more tryouts for the WFAN role by company talent. The 36-year-old Valenti originally came to Michigan to attend Michigan State. Read the Detroit News story here.
Tom Sullivan Show Syndicated by Talk Media Network. There’s been no official press release but on the Talk Media Network website the company announces that it is taking over the national syndication effort of the
KFBK, Sacramento-based Tom Sullivan show. Fox News Radio recently ceased syndicating the program it had been handling since Sullivan joined the company to also host a program on the Fox Business cable channel 10 years ago. Of this new syndication project, Sullivan says, “Reports of my retirement from radio syndication are greatly exaggerated… only from television. I am a radio guy first and foremost and I look forward to many years ahead with my current audience and building the Tom Sullivan show to bring in new stations and listeners across the country. I can now devote 100% of my time to delivering the best program on radio.”
John Gibson Radio Show Now Distributed by GCN. Former, longtime Fox News personality John Gibson
is now a part of the Genesis Communications Network lineup. His daily radio program airs live from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET. With the recent changes at Fox News Radio, Gibson moved his program to the GCN platform. Gibson first joined Fox News Channel back in 2000, hosting “The Big Story With John Gibson.” Later, he added hosting a daily radio show to his Fox duties. During his career, Gibson also hosted the “Newschat” and “Internight” programs at MSNBC, and he served for years as a West Coast correspondent for NBC News, supplying NBC affiliates with live reports on various breaking news events.
TALKERS News Notes. Next Wednesday (7/19), Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD) convenes the nomination hearing for FCC Commissioner nominees Jessica Rosenworcel and Brendan Carr…..Westwood One unveils a new partnership with the comic and actor DL Hughley. WW1 is producing and distributing his new “The Hughley Truth” podcast. The company says the program “features real, raw and funny conversation with comedian DL Hughley. Each week, DL and his wingman, ‘News Guy’ Guy Lambert, discuss politics, social behavior, entertainment, and more with engaging and clever guests from all walks of life. When you put all that together it’s not just the truth, it’s ‘The Hughley Truth.’”
Bob LaGrega Dies at 59. Retired affiliate sales pro Bob LaGrega died recently while on vacation with his
family. The details are sketchy but friends say LaGrega had been dealing with health issues over the past year — in fact, he’d retired because of health issues – and the cause of death appears to have been heart failure. During his career, LaGrega served with United Stations Radio Networks as executive director of affiliate relations/sales and spent almost three decades with ABC Radio Networks.
Trump Jr.-Russia Meeting, GOP Health Care Bill, President Trump in France, China-North Korea Trade Up, Military Plane Crash, Antarctic Iceberg, Scarborough Leaves GOP, and Mayweather-McGregor Press Conference Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/13). The ongoing controversy over Donald Trump Jr.’s meeting with Russian attorney Natalia Veselnitskaya during the 2016 campaign; the GOP health care plan and whether or not congress will put to a vote before the August break; President Trump heads to France to meet with new President Emanuel Macron; the report that China’s trade with North Korea has increased 10% since the beginning of the year and the related North Korean nuclear program and questions about China’s role in it; the military plane crash that took the lives of a number of Special Forces soldiers; a portion of the Antarctic ice shelf the size of Delaware breaks off; MSNBC personality Joe Scarborough leaves the Republican Party; and the over-the-top drama at the Floyd Mayweather–Conor McGregor press conference were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (7/13) with Dan Mason, Harry Hurley and Graham Mack. The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are 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); and 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. Yesterday (7/12) TALKERS posted 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). Today (7/13), a “Fireside Chat” is posted 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). Within the following days and weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com 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.
Cool On-Air Opportunity. In the Charlotte market, Entercom is seeking an on-air personality for its three Charlotte stations: news/talk WBT-AM/FM, sports talk WFNC-AM, and hot AC WLNK “The Link.” The company says, “If you live to connect with your audience on air, online and in person – you’ll love it here! We are looking for experienced on-air talent. Are you a passionate storyteller who’s authentic, entertaining and a team player? Do you have a strong hand in social media? The ideal candidate should possess strong work ethic, solid show prep and the ability to deliver creative and compelling content. Experience is preferred.” To be considered for this position, please apply here. No phone calls. Entercom Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Radio programming pro Kyle Due is named program director for iHeartMedia’s country KAJA “KJ97” and classic country KRPT/K227BH “92.5/93.3 The Bull” in San Antonio. In addition to programming Due will host the afternoon show on “KJ97.” iHeartMedia Austin/San Antonio SVP of
programming Brian Gann states, “We could not be more excited to have Kyle joining the San Antonio team.” Previously, Due served with the company programming CHR WAEB and rock WZZO in Allentown, Pennsylvania.…..Contemporary hit radio outlet WKSC, Chicago “103.5 KISS FM” announces 
that Kaelin Roberts is named executive producer for the “Fred+Angi Morning Show,” effective July 17. Roberts will be responsible for managing all aspects of the “Fred+Angi Morning Show” brand. The station says her responsibilities will include show content preparation, multi-platform quality control and behind-the-scenes show operations. iHeartMedia Chicago Region president Matt Scarano comments, “I am so excited to have Kaelin taking over executive producer duties for the ‘Fred+Angi Morning Show.’ Her talent, experience and exuberance will be a wonderful addition to our 103.5 KISS FM team.” Roberts is a Detroit native who began her career as an intern at iHeartMedia’s “Channel 955.” She then spent two years as an associate producer for the “Mojo in the Morning” show…..Cumulus Media
reports that its NASH Next franchise is enjoying “substantial year-over-year growth…including more than double the amount of registered artists.” NASH Next is the company’s national and grassroots search for America’s newest country star. For this year’s competition it has recruited artists in 62 markets across the country – including in markets such as Dallas, New York, Atlanta, Detroit and Nashville. The competition is now moving into the next phase – the fan rating period, where listeners are encouraged to rate the registered artists with the chance to win the right to attend the NASH Next 2017 finale in Nashville. Cumulus Media EVP of content and programming Mike McVay says, “Our listeners know what music they like and who they want to hear on the radio and so the fan rating portion of this competition is extremely important to the program, giving our valuable listeners a voice in choosing the next country star.”
Round One of June PPM Data Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio‘s June 2017 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 (New Jersey). Nielsen’s June 2017 PPM survey period covered May 25 – June 21. View all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Takeaways” from these 12 PPM markets.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
1) New York – Progressing from tenth to eighth, iHeartMedia urban contemporary WWPR “Power 105.1 New
York’s Hip-Hop and R&B” is without a decrease for the fifth successive sweep (3.6 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 4.2, 6+) and is up six-tenths in that stretch. In addition to advancing from #16 to #15, news/talk cluster-mate WOR logs its third straight increase (1.7 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.5, 6+) and is up a collective eight-tenths since March. Moreover, June 2017’s 2.5 is the highest 6+-stat for the New York Mets flagship in nearly seven years when it reached 2.6 (#19) in November 2010. By dialing up a gain of nine-tenths to 3.0 (6+), public news/talk WYNC-FM puts an end to four straight downward trends that 
produced a six-tenths deficit (2.7 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.1, 6+) and it rockets from #20 to #12. Trending 5.0 – 5.2 – 4.9 – 5.0 (6+) since February, iHeartMedia-owned WAXQ “Q-104.3 New York’s Classic Rock” busts out a +.5 to 5.5, the most potent 6+-share in its PPM-history, and advances from fifth to third. Last month’s tie at #1 is broken as adult contemporary sibling WLTW “106.7 Lite FM” picks up four-tenths (6.1 – 6.5, 6+) to take sole possession of the top spot, while CBS Radio classic
hits-oldies WCBS-FM “101.1 New York’s Greatest Hits” up – albeit by one-tenth – slides to second (6.1 – 6.2, 6+). A one-tenth increase by “Lite” in May halted four straight declines that produced a collective -7.3 since “Holiday” 2016 (13.3 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.2 – 6.0, 6+). Prior to April 2017 and May 2017, “New York’s Greatest Hits” last reached #1 in July 2016, when it scored a 6.2 (6+). It had been at 6.1 (6+) in three of the previous four sweeps, while iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR WKTU (-.1, eighth to ninth, 6+) had registered a 4.1 (6+) in four of the previous five survey periods (4.1 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+). Following three consecutive improvements for a cumulative +.4 (5.3 – 5.4 – 5.6 – 5.7, 6+), Emmis urban AC WBLS “107.5 – Your #1 Source for R&B” is off by three-tenths and slips from third to fourth. Unchanged at #22, Cumulus Media news/talk WABC notches its third straight 1.3 (6+), after three successive 1.4 (6+) showings (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.3, 6+).
2) Los Angeles – Flat at #19, CBS Radio alternative KROQ is up or flat for the sixth consecutive monthly for a +.6 in that period (1.8 – 2.0 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.4, 6+). Its format rival, iHeartMedia’s KYSR-FM “ALT 98.7 – LA’s 
New Alternative,” which had been down by one-tenth in each of the last three ratings periods (3.2 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9, 6+), is flat at 2.9 and remains at #11. Steady at #14, Mount Wilson FM Broadcasters’ KKGO “Go Country 105” has its fifth successive ratings period without erosion for a +.6 (2.2 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8, 6+).
Notwithstanding that it is flat at 5.8 (6+), iHeartMedia hot AC “My-FM” is #1 for the fifth consecutive time. When “My-FM” dropped one-tenth in April, it ended three straight uptrends (4.7 – 5.1 – 5.2 – 5.7, 6+), which netted a combined full-share gain. February’s +.1 (5.1 – 5.2, 6+) was enough for it to depart the runner-up slot it held the previous three sweeps and take over at #1. This marks the fourth straight sweep that CBS Radio smooth AC KTWV (+.1, 6+) occupies the runner-up position and “The Wave” steps across the five-share threshold for the fifth time in the last six sweeps (5.0 – 4.8 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.4, 6+). Eleven stations in the market are bunched together with 6+-shares between 3.0 and 2.3. After back-to-back survey periods in which no Los Angeles outlet appearing in print gained or lost more than one-half share, Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KRCD “Recuerdo” regresses by -.5 (3.1 – 2.6, 6+) to plummet from #9 to #17. Meanwhile, Spanish contemporary cluster-mate KLVE “107.5 K-Love” is down or flat for the fourth straight time (3.9 – 3.9 – 3.7 – 3.6 – 3.5, 6+), but carries on at #6. Having picked up a collective full-share in five straight progressive or 
flat sweeps (1.9 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.4 – 2.6 – 2.9, 6+), Entercom classic rock KSWD “The Sound” drops two-tenths to 2.7 (6+), tumbling from a three-way logjam at #11 to #16. The January 2017 through June 2017 6+-trending for iHeartMedia news/talk KFI (seventh to eighth) is 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.4 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3, whereas Cumulus Media’s similarly-formatted KABC (unchanged at #36) registers a .6 after five straight showings of .7 (6+). Similarly, Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFSH “95.9 The Fish – Safe for the Whole Family,” is .5 (#37 to #38), following a .6 performance five times in a row and in nine of the previous ten sweeps. Owing to five straight decreases (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.6 – 1.5, 6+), Taxi Productions urban AC KJLH (#25) is a collective -.8.
3) Chicago – Locked on 2.6 (6+) in March and April before advancing to 2.9 (6+) in May, CBS Radio-owned WUSN logs a +.5 to 3.4 (6+). Not only does “US-99 Chicago’s Hottest Country” escape a massive six-way logjam at
#12 to enter the top ten (#9), this is its best 6+-showing since the 3.5 it recorded in December 2014. Meanwhile, dating back to the first of the year, its format rival – HeartMedia’s WEBG “Big 95.5 Chicago’s New Country” (#22) – is trending 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 2.1 (6+). Improving by three-tenths (5.8 – 6.1, 6+), urban AC sibling WVAZ “V-103 Today’s R&B and Throwbacks” is #1 for the fifth successive month. At the same time, 
while this represents the fifth straight sweep without an increase for WBBM-AM for a collective -1.6 (6.3 – 5.4 – 5.4 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+), the CBS Radio all-news operation remains in the runner-up slot. Although steady at #3, Hubbard hot AC WTMX “Mix” hasn’t had an increase in the last five sweeps (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+) and is down seven-tenths in that stretch. Ironically, similarly-formatted WLIT “93.9 My-FM The Best Variety” has lost nine-tenths in three successive declines (3.7 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.8, 6+), freefalling from #10 to #15. In the contemporary hit arena, CBS Radio-owned WBBM-FM “B-96” drops one-tenth (4.0 – 3.9, flat at #4), while iHeartMedia’s WKSC “103.5 Kiss FM – Chicago’s #1 Hit Music Station” picks up one-tenth (3.7 – 3.8, 6+), yet actually backslides from fifth to sixth. When “B-96” was off by three-tenths in March, it stopped a streak of four successive up or flat trends that netted one-half share (3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+). Before it fell by three-tenths in April, “Kiss” was a combined +.7, which it gained in three consecutive increases (3.5 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 4.2, 6+). Down or flat for the
fourth straight time for a collective -1.1 (4.2 – 4.2 – 3.9 – 3.3 – 3.1, 6+), following three consecutive ratings periods without a loss for a +.5 (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+), Tribune Media Company news/talk WGN drops out of the top ten (#9 to #11). A combined +.8 since last November via seven straight up or flat trends (2.1 – 2.2 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.8 – 2.9, 6+), Merlin Media-owned/Cumulus Media-operated alternative WKQX drops two-tenths to 2.7 (6+), spiraling from #12 to #17. Faltering by one-half share (1.1 – .6, 6+), Moody Bible Institute religious teaching WMBI finishes at #29.
4) San Francisco – Pulling the plug on three straight decreases that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (4.5 – 4.4 – 4.3 – 3.8, 6+), iHeartMedia adult contemporary KISQ recaptures the one-half share it squandered in May (4.3, 
6+) as “98.1 The Breeze” jumps from seventh to fourth. Seven-tenths ahead of “The Breeze” is fellow AC, Entercom’s KOIT-FM “Better Music for a Better Workday,” which is trending 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.3 – 5.0 (6+) and carries on in third-place. With a 2.5 (6+) in four of the last five ratings periods, urban AC sibling KBLX adds two-tenths to 2.7 as “102.9 The Bay’s R&B” remains at #12. Climbing from eighth to seventh is Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG “100.3 Mas Variedad,” which has its third increase in a row for a collective +.9 (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.3 – 3.6, 6+).
Even though it is without an increase for the fourth successive time for a -1.0 (7.7 – 7.3 – 7.0 – 6.7 – 6.7, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting’s news/talk KQED-FM is #1 as it has been every month 
this calendar year. In the runner-up slot for the sixth successive time is CBS Radio all-news KCBS-AM (6.1 – 6.0, -.1, 6+). Dropping six-tenths (4.1 – 3.5, 6+), the key station of the San Francisco Giants – Cumulus Media’s KNBR “The Sports Leader” – stumbles from fifth to eighth. At the same time, Entercom’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” – the flagship of the Oakland A’s – adds one-tenth
(2.0 – 2.1, 6+), as it inches up from #19 – #18. May’s +.3 by “The Game” put an end to its 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 1.7 (6+) trending. Stymied at 3.8 (6+) in February and March and then on 3.2 (6+) in April and May, CBS Radio CHR KMVQ “99.7 – New Hit Music Now” slips to 3.0 (ninth to tenth, 6+). The October 2016 through June 2017 6+-line for iHeartMedia urban contemporary KMEL “#1 for Hip-Hop and R&B in the Bay Area” (#10 to #11) is a 
remarkably consistent 3.3 – 3.0 – 2.9 – 3.3 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9. By adding two-tenths to 3.2 (6+), co-owned KYLD “Wild 94.9 – The Bay’s #1 Hit Music Station” (tenth to ninth) ends three straight negative trends that accounted for the loss of one-half share (3.5 – 3.4 – 3.1 – 3.0, 6+). Ending its mini-repetitive 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.5 (6+) sequence, Cumulus Media news/talk KGO drops two-tenths to 2.3 (#12 to #15, 6+), while co-owned/similarly-formatted KSFO is without an increase for the fifth time in a row for a full-share loss (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.1 – 1.8, 6+) and exits the top twenty (#17 to #21). This is the third straight month that Entercom-owned KUFX is unlisted; “98.5 K-Fox – The South Bay’s Classic Rock” had a 1.5 (6+) in March.
5) Dallas – Not only does Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KLTY boast the largest (6+) May 2017 – June 2017 increase of any station in the 12 PPM-markets whose data was released Wednesday (3.2 – 4.3, +1.1, 6+),
“94.9 – Your Life … Inspired” propels from #11 to #5 and has its strongest 6+-stat since 4.4 in “Holiday” 2015. Tied for the top spot in March, iHeartMedia CHR KHKS “106.1 Kiss-FM,” regains all but one-tenth of the seven-tenths it lost in May (5.9 – 5.2 – 5.8, +.6, 6+) and inches up from third to second. It will be especially interesting to see how “Kiss” 
does in the July sweep, since Elena Davies – on hiatus from the KHKS-originated, syndicated “Kidd Kraddick Show” – is one of the Season 19 houseguests on CBS-TV’s “Big Brother,” which premiered June 28. As noted above, the final day of the June sweep was June 21. Finishing first for the sixth successive time is Cumulus Media country outlet KPLX “The Wolf,” whose last six 6+-trends are 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.0 – 6.2 – 6.3 – 6.1. Off one-tenth to 3.3 (6+), Service Broadcasting urban contemporary KKDA-FM “K-104” (eighth to ninth) has its successive string of up or flat trends that netted a full-share gain snapped at seven (2.4 – 2.6 – 2.6 – 2.8 – 3.2 – 3.2 – 3.4 – 3.4, 6+). Stuck on 2.9 (6+) in January, February, March, and April, Cumulus Media’s
KTCK gained four-tenths in May to 3.3 (6+), but “The Ticket” surrenders three-tenths in June to 3.0 (6+), moving from #10 to a four-way tie at #11. April’s +.8 by “The Ticket” halted a loss of over two full-shares in three straight downward moves (6.8 – 5.2 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). After four straight increases that netted nine-tenths (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.0 – 5.2 – 5.5, 6+), iHeartMedia classic 
rocker KZPS “Lone Star 92.5” dips by one-tenth to 5.4 (6+), segueing from second to third. Registering a 3.8 for the third time in the last four sweeps (3.8 – 3.6 – 3.8 – 3.8, 6+), co-owned hot AC KDMX “102.9 Now” slips from eighth to ninth. In addition to falling out of the top twenty (#19 to #22), Cumulus Media news/talk WBAP notches a decrease for the fifth time in a row and is a collective -1.6 since January (3.6 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.6 – 2.3 – 2.0, 6+). Likewise, Northwest Texas Public Broadcasting news/talk KERA is without an increase for the fourth consecutive time for a -.5 (2.6 – 2.3 – 2.3 – 2.2 – 2.1, 6+), yet actually improves from a tie at #20 to a three-way deadlock at #19.
6) Houston – In its third straight up or flat trend (3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.6, 6+), Cumulus Media CHR KRBE “Houston’s #1 Hit Music Station” matches the 4.6 it recorded last August and marches into the top ten (#11 to #6).
Following four straight gains that yielded a cumulative +1.3 (2.3 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.6, 6+), CBS Radio hot AC KHMX slumped by four-tenths in May, but “Houston’s Mix 96-5” 
regains all of it – plus two-tenths more – (3.2 – 3.8, +.6, 6+), advancing from #15 to #12. On top for the fifth consecutive sweep, Radio One-owned urban AC KMJQ “Majic 102.1 The People’s Station” returns nearly half of May’s +1.4 (6.9 – 8.3 – 7.7, -.6, 6+). It has been a rollercoaster ride for “Majic,” which was up a combined +1.0 in back-to-back monthlies (6.9 – 7.2 – 7.9, January-February-March, 6+) only to return all of it in April (6.9, 6+) and then notch May’s +1.4. It is a somewhat similar story for noncommercial contemporary Christian KSBJ. After progressing by seven-tenths in April, “God Listens” returned all but one-tenth in May (-.6, 6+) and duplicates that -.6 in June 5.6 – 5.0 – 4.4, fifth to eighth, 6+). KSBJ improved by +1.0 in January to 5.9, its highest 6+-share in more than four years (6.0, November 2012); was -.5 in both February and March (5.9 – 5.4 – 4.9, 6+); +.7 in April; -.6 in May; and now -.6 in June. This is the station’s lowest 6+-share since its 4.2 last September. Then, there is the case of Univision Radio regional Mexican KLTN, which moves from third to fifth. Following three straight negative trends that yielded a combined -1.5 (8.0 – 7.4 – 6.7 – 6.5, 6+), KLTN brought back 60% of that deficit in January (+.9), jumping from third to first. It was a very quick stay there though as KLTN surrendered -1.3 in February (7.4 – 6.1, 6+) and fell to third. In March, KLTN was -.5 to 5.6, its lowest 6+-showing since last April’s 5.4; was +.7 in April; -.2 in May; and now -1.1 in June (6.1 – 5.0, 6+). Five successive up or flat trends netted a +1.1 (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 2.7 – 2.7, 6+) for Liberman’s similarly-formatted KQQK but “El Norte 107.9” drops two-tenths to 2.5 (6+) and slides from #17 back to #18; May’s 2.7 was the finest 6+-showing for “El Norte” since last August (2.7, as well).
7) Atlanta – A collective +1.6 via six consecutive upticks (2.6 – 2.8 – 2.9 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 4.0 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s country-formatted WUBL “94.9 The Bull” has its strongest 6+-performance since last July (4.6) and cracks the top
ten (#11 to #7). Without a loss for the sixth time in a row as well, Cumulus Media’s 
WNNX “100.5 – Atlanta’s Rock Station” (steady at #15) is a combined +1.5 since the “Holiday” 2016 report (1.7 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 3.2 – 3.2, 6+). Conversely though, Cox Media Group-owned WSRV concludes at five its streak of consecutive gains that netted a +2.3 in that stretch (4.4 – 4.6 – 5.1 – 5.9 – 6.2 – 6.7, 6+) as “Classic Hits 97.1 The River” is off by one-tenth to 6.6 (6+), but remains at #2. With its third consecutive positive 
trend that has produced a gain of seven-tenths (3.0 – 3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7, 6+), Entercom hot AC WSTR “Star 94.1 – Today’s Best Mix” climbs from #14 to #13. Down or flat the past four sweeps for a combined loss of more than two full-shares (10.7 – 9.9 – 9.5 – 9.5 – 8.6, 6+), Cox Media Group news/talk WSB-AM bumps up by two-tenths to 8.8 (6+) and is #1 for the
18th straight ratings period. Prior to March, its most recent fluctuations were -2.3 (“Holiday” 2016); +2.8 (January); and -.8 (February). January 2017’s 10.7 represents the station’s best-ever (6+) performance, eclipsing the 10.2 in December 2016. Co-owned adult contemporary WSB-FM “B-98.5,” however, is without an increase for the fourth successive sweep for a -1.4 (5.3 – 4.6 – 4.6 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #11). After regressing by one-half share in May (5.0 – 4.5, 6+), Salem Media Group contemporary Christian WFSH “The Fish” falters by another six-tenths to 3.9 (6+) and exits the top ten as well (#6 to #11, where it is tied with WSB-FM).
8) Philadelphia – An improvement of six-tenths to 6.9 (6+) lifts Jerry Lee Radio adult contemporary WBEB “Today’s 101 More FM” from fourth to second, thus curtailing at five a successive string of down or flat trends that 
led to a loss of well over 11 full-shares from “Holiday” 2016 (17.9 – 7.9 – 7.9 – 7.0 – 6.6 – 6.3, 6+). Three-tenths ahead of WBEB is CBS Radio classic hits-oldies WOGL (6.8 – 7.2, +.4, 6+), which returns to #1 after transitioning from first to third in May. It was thus a May-only
stay at #1 for iHeartMedia-owned urban AC WDAS-FM “Philly’s Best R&B and Throwbacks” (7.0 – 6.8, -.2, 6+), which moves from first to third – one-tenth behind “Today’s 101 More FM.” A collective +1.6 via three straight increases (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.8 – 5.5, 6+), CBS Radio sports outlet/Philadelphia 
Phillies’ flagship WIP (sixth to seventh) forfeits exactly one-half of that gain (4.7, -.8, 6+). When WIP improved by two-tenths in March, it ended at five a consecutive string of downward or flat trends that yielded a cumulative -1.1 (5.0 – 4.9 – 4.3 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.9, 6+). Its format rival – Beasley Media Group’s WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” – surrenders four-tenths (2.0 – 1.6, 6+) to dip from #19 to #21. Duplicating May’s -.5, iHeartMedia-owned WRFF “Radio 104.5 – Philadelphia’s Alternative Rock” drops out of the top ten (#10 to #12); it was +.6 in April with 4.7 its strongest 6+-showing since last October’s 4.9. After putting together three successive positive trends netting one full share in that stretch (5.9 – 6.2 – 6.4 – 6.9, 6+), Beasley Media Group’s WMGK “Classic Rock 102.9 MGK” falters by three-tenths to 6.6 (6+), slipping from second to fourth. Even though ever-consistent WUSL “Power 99” (4.1 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 4.3 – 4.4, 6+) is up one-tenth, the iHeartMedia urban contemporary outlet backslides from eighth to ninth.
9) Long Island – Over and above being only one of three stations from this particular group of 12 PPM-markets to improve by at least one-share (6+) between May 2017 and June 2017 WALK-FM “Real Variety 97.5” (5.3 – 6.3, +1.0, 6+), zooms from third to first. A full-share loss in March (5.2 – 4.2, 6+) resulted in “Real Variety 97.5” tumbling from
fourth to seventh, but the Connoisseur Media hot AC gained nine-tenths in April to rocket from seventh to first. Two stations are displaced at the top, including Cox Media Group-owned CHR WBLI which shifts to #2. Despite the downward move, “Long Island’s #1 For All the Hits” (up four-tenths) extends to six its consecutive string of up or flat trends (4.0 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.8 – 5.0 – 5.4 – 5.8, 6+) and is +1.8 since the “Holiday” 2016 report. Conversely, May’s other co-leader, iHeartMedia New York City’s similarly-programmed WHTZ “Z-100,” regresses by four-tenths (5.4 – 5.0, 6+) and falls to fourth. Having registered 11 successive sweeps at #1 in the Long Island report, “Z-100” spiraled by -1.5 in “Holiday” 2016 (6.6 – 5.1, 6+), sliding to third. It then gained eight-tenths in January 2017 to reappear at #1 and repeated at the top in February and March. Posting spikes of one-half share each are CBS Radio classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (5.1, fifth to third, 6+), ending three straight dips resulting in a -.7 (5.3 – 4.9 – 4.7 – 4.6, 6+), and public WNYC-FM (1.3 – 1.8, #22, 6+). In four consecutive sweeps without an increase (2.5 – 2.4 – 2.1 – 2.1 – 1.6, 6+) Cumulus Media’s WNSH “94.7 Nash FM” is a combined -.9 and falls off the top twenty (#20 to #23). Flat at 2.3, yet improving from #18 to #15, Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” is in 2.0 – 2.9 range (6+) for the 31st straight sweep.
10) Riverside – More than doubling its 6+-share since February (.7 – .8 – .9 – 1.0 – 1.5, 6+) San Bernardino Community College news/talk KVCR jumps from #13 to #11. Each of the top three stations drops by two-tenths, 
including Entravision Spanish adult hits KLYY, which is #1 for the 20th consecutive ratings period, although “Jose” registers its fifth consecutive decrease for a -1.5 (9.4 – 9.2 – 8.6 – 8.3 – 8.1 – 7.9, 6+). After five consecutive sweeps without a decrease which produced a +2.2 (7.2 – 7.5 – 7.5 – 8.3 – 8.7 – 9.4, 6+), “Jose” lost two-tenths in February. In the runner-up slot for the sixth successive ratings period, KOLA was a combined +1.0 in April and May (5.2 – 5.6 – 6.2, 6+), but the Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies outlet dips to 6.0 (6+). The loss of four-tenths in March ended at five KOLA’s string of consecutive fluctuations by one-half share (7.1 – 6.6 – 6.1 – 5.6 – 6.1 – 5.6, 6+) for a collective -1.5; KOLA was at #2 six straight times before dropping to third in “Holiday” 2016. Prior to November, it was up or flat the previous six times for a net
gain of +2.2 (4.9 – 4.9 – 5.6 – 6.5 – 6.8 – 6.9 – 7.1, 6+). Having posted five straight up or flat trends netting one full-share (3.7 – 4.4 – 4.5 – 4.5 – 4.6 – 4.7, 6+), CBS Radio’s KFRG “New Country K-Frog” forfeits 70% of that increase (4.0, -.7, 6+), as it shifts from third to fifth. The four most recent trends for iHeartMedia rhythmic CHR KGGI (fourth to third) are 4.6 – 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.4 (6+), while Good News Radio contemporary Christian KSGN (89.7 Family Friendly” (tenth to ninth) is trending 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 – 1.8 (6+). Following three consecutive up or flat trends that yielded a +.7 (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.6 – 4.6, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish contemporary KLVE “107.5 K-Love” sputters by one-half share to 4.1 (6+), but remains in fourth-place.
11) San Jose – Rolling out an increase of one full-share (5.2 – 6.2, 6+), Univision Radio Spanish adult hits KBRG 
“100.3 Mas Variedad” proceeds from third-place to the runner-up slot. In 4.0 – 4.3 range (6+) the past four sweeps, Empire Broadcasting’s KRTY “San Jose Hot Country” notches a +.9 (4.2 – 5.1, 6+) to climb from seventh to fifth. It is the strongest 6+-performance for KRTY since last September’s 5.3. While unchanged at #4, a +.8 propels Alpha Media hot AC KEZR “Mix
106 – Today’s Best Music” to 5.6 (6+). Not only does Cumulus Media triple A KFOG register an increase of seven-tenths (2.1 – 2.8, 6+), “Music Matters” cracks the top twenty at #14. The stream of CBS Radio hot AC KLLC “Alice @ 97.3” gains one-half share (.4 – .9, #30, 6+). Adding one-tenth to May’s three-tenths, co-owned all-news operation KCBS-AM repeats at #1. The +.3 in May ended a string of three consecutive KCBS-AM down or flat trends that produced a -.6 (6.7 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 6.1 (6+). Trending 4.4 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 4.5 (6+) since January, Alpha Media classic hits-oldies KBAY “94.5 Bay FM – The Bay’s Greatest Hits” stumbles by nine-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and slips from fifth to ninth. Locked on 4.2 (6+) in April and May, following a March – April +1.1, Cumulus Media’s KNBR drifts by eight-tenths to 3.4, as “The Sports Leader” exits the top ten (#7 to #11). Off by one-half share (2.3 – 1.8, 6+), Spanish Broadcasting System regional Mexican KRZZ “93.3 La Raza” spirals from #19 to #23. Unchanged at #18, Univision Radio rhythmic CHR KVVF “San Jose’s Hottest Music” regresses by four-tenths to 2.5, halting three straight gains that netted a +1.0 since February (1.9 – 2.2 – 2.4 – 2.9, 6+). Faltering for the fourth straight sweep for a cumulative -1.5 (7.6 – 7.5 – 7.2 – 6.3 – 6.1, 6+), Northern California Public Broadcasting’s KQED slides from second to third. Unlisted in San Jose since posting a 5.1 (6+) in the “Holiday” 2015 report, KQED returned in January 2017 by recording a 6.9 (6+) to finish at #1 and had been on top through April.
12) Middlesex – Without a decrease for the sixth straight sweep for a net gain of +2.2 (2.4 – 2.7 – 3.6 – 3.9 – 3.9 – 4.2 – 4.6, 6+), Emmis rhythmic CHR WQHT “Hot 97” inches up from sixth to fifth. Its format rival – iHeartMedia’s 
WKTU (#16 – #17) – drops two-tenths to 2.8 (6+), thus curtailing at six its consecutive string of up or flat trends that accounted for a +.8 (2.2 – 2.2 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+). In its third increase in a row (2.1 – 2.3 – 2.5 – 3.2, 6+), WPLJ is a collective +1.1 and the Cumulus Media hot AC catapults into the top twenty at #14. Down or flat the past nine sweeps and -1.6 since September (4.5 – 4.3 – 4.0 – 3.9 – 3.8 – 3.7 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.3 – 2.9, 6+), CBS Radio CHR WBMP “Amp” bounces back with a +.6 to 3.5 (6+) to zoom from #17 to #11. Off in each of the last three Middlesex-Somerset-Union sweeps for a cumulative -2.2 since March (5.4 – 4.5 – 4.3 – 3.2, 6+), iHeartMedia’s similarly-formatted WHTZ “Z-100”
answers with a +.5 to 3.7, returning to the top ten (#14 to #9, 6+). Following a combined loss of -1.4 in back-to-back sweeps (7.9 – 7.4 – 6.5, 6+), Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW repeats May’s +.3 (6.5 – 6.8 – 7.1, 6+) and is #1 for the sixth consecutive ratings period. As a result of a “Holiday” 2016 – January 2017 increase of one-full-share (6.8 – 7.8, 6+), “New Jersey 101.5” returned to #1 following one month in the runner-up slot. Prior to “Holiday” 2016, when it was -.7, (6+), WKXW spent 12 consecutive ratings periods on top. Owing to three successive gains (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.7 – 4.0, 6+), WPAT netted nine-tenths, but the Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish contemporary outlet has the dubious distinction of registering the highest (6+) May 2017 – June 2017 decline of any station in the 12 PPM-markets whose data was released on Wednesday (4.0 – 2.5, -1.5, 6+). Moreover, “Amor 93.1” sinks from #8 to #20. A combined +.8 since March (2.9 – 3.4 – 3.7, 6+), iHeartMedia urban contemporary WWPR returns all but one-tenth of that increase in June (3.7 – 3.0, -.7, 6+) as “Power 105.1 – New York’s Hip-Hop and R&B” freefalls from #10 to #16.
Friday, June 17, 2016
Beasley Builds News/Talker WJBX in SW Florida. Flipping Spanish sports talk WJBX-AM, Fort Myers and adding translators W268AH, Bonita Springs at 101.5 and W282BY, Fort Myers at 104.3, Beasley Media Group creates “WJBX News Talk and More” to serve Fort Myers, Naples and Marco Island. The station is airing national superstar Dave Ramsey and a lot of FOX News Radio content – Kilmeade & Friends, John Gibson, Tom Sullivan, and Alan Colmes – plus the Compass Media-distributed morning show “This Morning – America’s First News with Gordon Deal.” The station will use CBS Radio News for hourly newscasts. Beasley SW Florida market manager Brad Beasley states, “We’re ready to deliver thought-provoking topics that inform, educate and inspire our audience. Our listeners will hear from a top selection of influential national voices. We’re excited to add WJBX to our incredible lineup of stations here in Southwest Florida!”
WGAN, Portland Morning Host Mike Violette Resigns from Station. Off the air since June 2, WGAN, Portland listeners now know where morning drive co-host Mike Violette has been – riding his motorcycle and playing golf. The 12-year morning personality announced via Facebook earlier this week that he asked to be let out of his contract with the Saga Communications station and the station agreed, giving him a “nice severance package.” Violette implied he was getting a little burned out and now that his kids are done with college and on their own, he wants to see what else is out there. The station will announce his replacement on Friday afternoon during Howie Carr’s live broadcast of his syndicated show as he does the program from WGAN. See the Portland Press Herald story here.
Curtis Media Promotes Trip Savery to President and Chief Operating Officer. North Carolina operator Curtis Media Group promotes Trip Savery to president and COO, what CEO and chairman Donald W. Curtis calls a formality. “We have actually been working this way for the past year.” Savery was SVP and general manager of country WQDR, Raleigh. Savery says, “I am honored to continue my career at Curtis Media Group in this role, and want to thank Don Curtis and the many talented people I have the privilege of working with every day for our continued success.” Savery is a native of Chapel Hill and serves on the board of directors of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters as vice president of radio. In addition, he serves on the board of visitors of the UNC Children’s Hospital, as well as the board of advisors of the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce.
Jim Berk Named CEO of PodcastOne. Media industry executive Jim Berk is appointed to the PodcastOne board of directors and will serve as the company’s CEO. PodcastOne founder and chairman Norm Pattiz says, in making the announcement, “We have created an unmatched footprint in the podcast space and now are building a more robust executive team to allow PodcastOne to take full advantage of our organic growth and strategic opportunities. Jim has done tremendous work in transitioning companies to their next stage of growth, and with him joining the PodcastOne leadership team, our possibilities are endless.” Pattiz, who was CEO, retains his post as executive chairman. Berk comes to PodcastOne from his most recent position as CEO of Participant Media – a “global entertainment company focused on socially relevant film, television, publishing and digital media.” Berk also was president & CEO of Hard Rock Cafe International, Inc. during which the company embarked on a “record expansion of locations with record revenue and profits, while also making Hard Rock a music and television entertainment brand.” Berk was also the founding executive director of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences Foundation (The Grammy Foundation). Berk comments, “It’s exciting to enter this media space during a time of unprecedented expansion as consumer interest for the audio format in on-demand programming is experiencing rapid growth…PodcastOne is already demonstrating impressive year-on-year growth. I look forward to working closely with Norm, Kit, Gary, Greg and the entire executive team to build on their success.”
Orlando Club Massacre Top News/Talk Story for Week of June 13-17. The murders of 49 people at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando by a man claiming to support Islamic State was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 was the senate filibuster and talk about changing gun laws; at #3 was the presidential race and the activities of the candidates; followed at #4 by the slaying of British MP Jo Cox and next week’s vote by Britons on whether to exit the European Union. 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. View this week’s entire chart here.
Allwood Appointed Promotions Director at CMG Atlanta. Promotions pro Amanda Allwood is heading to Atlanta to serve as promotions director for Cox Media Group’s cluster there. Allwood will oversee promotions and event marketing for adult contemporary WSB-FM “B98.5,” classic hits WSRV “97.1 The River,” urban contemporary WALR “Kiss 104.1 FM” and news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM. Allwood was most recently with SiriusXM in New York as senior manager of promotions and event marketing. She’s also worked in promotions for CBS RADIO in Tampa and CMG in Tampa and Orlando. CMG programmer Chris Eagan says, “Amanda has the critical eye that we need to take our events and promotions efforts to the next level. She understands how crucial it is to integrate sales, programming and digital into one superpower to make these radio brands sparkle!”
Alpha Ups McDaniel to Director of Marketing Post. KBFF, Portland promotions director Kelsey McDaniel is promoted by Alpha Media Portland to director of marketing for the entire cluster. The company says McDaniel is “known by most for her enthusiasm for the music industry, amazing event execution and overall hard work but, she’s also known for her competitive Sunday night BINGO addiction and searching endlessly for the love of her life, a golden retriever puppy.” Alpha Portland SVP/market manager Milt McConnell says, “This is a well-deserved promotion for Kelsey as she is about to celebrate her seventh year with us. She has demonstrated outstanding leadership of our promotions team and has elevated our interaction with listeners and clients on all levels.” If addition to CHR KBFF, Alpha Portland also operates triple A KINK, country KUPL, news/talk KXL-FM, sports talk KXTG-AM/FM, and talk KUFO-AM.
Testimony Continues in Cumulus vs Johnny Burke & Blondie. According to a report from MLive.com, the testimony continued in a federal courtroom in Michigan this week in Cumulus Media’s suit against former WHNN, Saginaw-Bay City morning team Johnny Burke and Bonnie Belger-Holzhei, a.k.a. Blondie. Cumulus attorneys are trying to show that Burke and Belger-Holzhei violated the terms of their contracts by soliciting the radio station’s clients for the Internet radio show they launched after being fired by the station. This week, station operations manager Scott Stine testified that the pair are also using bits and prep service products they used when they worked at WHNN. Stine said they had access to a “shared drive” with station client information but the pair’s attorney argued Cumulus has no proof they ever used the information. Read the MLive.com account here.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
PodcastOne, Associated Press Enter Into Collaboration. The arrangement will deliver real-time news reports in on-demand podcasts. PodcastOne chairman and chief executive officer Norm Pattiz comments that, “The podcast industry is moving faster than ever [and] this is another example of PodcastOne investing heavily in the future of the platform. This has never been done before, because there has never been a podcast platform with the technology, excellent content, and sheer number of shows with enough audience to cover all time-periods every day of every week. The Associated Press recognizes the opportunity, and it will be a great to work with. This cutting-edge movement is another step in the digital evolution of spoken-word audio.” Director of broadcast markets for The Associated Press Michael Fabiano remarks, “We are very pleased to provide AP news and information for PodcastOne and industry pioneer Norm Pattiz. The Associated Press has multiple forms of content, including text, images, video, audio and assignment services for a variety of emerging digital platforms.” Starting next month (January 2015), PodcastOne will be able to make the most current 60-second AP news feature available to listeners at the exact time the podcast is downloaded.
Parker Picks Up Sacramento Duties. In addition to overseeing programming for iHeartMedia‘s six San Francisco stations, vice president of programming Don Parker expands his role to include the company’s six-station Sacramento cluster. iHeartMedia executive vice president of programming Brad Hardin comments, “Don’s programming leadership in San Francisco has resulted in significant increased listenership and engagement for our brands. The additional responsibility for our Sacramento stations is well deserved and I look forward to partnering with Don to grow our reach in Northern California.” According to Parker, “Our Sacramento stations have evolved greatly. With market veteran John Geary at the helm, our leadership team and talent in the Sacramento market is shaping up to be among the best in the business. I am grateful to iHeartMedia for the amazing opportunity.” The six Sacramento stations involved include country KBEB “B-92.5”; news/talk hybrid KFBK-AM/FM; rhythmic hot AC KHYL “The Beat of Sacramento”; adult hits KQJK “Jack-FM”; and talk KSTE “Talk 650.” Parker joined iHeartMedia San Francisco in 2009 as operations manager. He previously was NextMedia‘s vice president of programming and has been a PD in Los Angeles, Houston, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Fresno.
Westwood One News Debuts. Pictured here doing the very first newscast for the new Westwood One News is correspondent Michael Toscano. The new news service was announced by Cumulus Media earlier this fall and is “powered” by CNN. The company says Westwood One News was “the only network bureau and staff reporting out of Cuba Wednesday on the major breaking story of a change in relations and the release of Alan Gross – held hostage for five years.” WW1 also says correspondent Steve Kastenbaum was in Philadelphia, reporting live on the unfolding story of six people shot dead and the killer’s subsequent suicide.
WYD Media Ad Sales to Rep Fox News Radio Shows. Beginning on December 29, the national advertising sales for Fox News Radio’s long-form talk shows – John Gibson, Alan Colmes, Tom Sullivan, Kilmeade & Friends and “Fox News Sunday” – will be handled by WYD Media Ad Sales. WYD will provide customizable opportunities for the ad community while also developing alternative programming options. WYD Media Ad Sales president John Murphy says, “This is a great way to kick off the New Year. Fox News Radio is a powerful brand, particularly within the spoken-word format. Their on-air personalities are proven brand influencers who provide a loyal audience to the advertising marketplace.” Fox News Radio is currently repped by Westwood One.
Two Join Fox News Radio. Joining the Fox News Radio operations are Jon Decker and Gurnal Scott. Decker comes aboard as a White House correspondent based in Washington. Scott will serve as a national correspondent. At the same time, Fox News Radio’s Jessica Golloher transitions from her role as a national reporter based in New York to Middle East correspondent based in Jerusalem.
Odds & Sods. WBAL, Baltimore welcomes Clinton Box as general sales manager. He arrives at the Hearst Radio talk station from similar duties at iHeartMedia San Francisco…..As tipped by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, Chicago journalist Dan Miller is taking over the hosting duties of the television version of the syndicated “Beyond the Beltway” program as Bruce DuMont steps down from that role. DuMont will still host the radio edition of the show.
Four New Air Personalities Join Yahoo! Sports Radio. With the New Year, Yahoo! Sports Radio welcomes four new talents to the lineup: longtime sports talk host Anthony Pepe daily from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon; Matt Perrault for weekends 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm; Tim Murray for Sundays 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm; and Jason McIntyre for Sundays 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (all times ET). Perrault will put the spotlight on the week in sports and Murray will focus on professional and college football and college hoops. McIntyre is founder and publisher of The Big Lead and will provide a roundup of the week’s sports headlines and entertainment.
Sony Pictures Hack Case, 2016 Presidential Prospects, Cuba Relations Issue, Russian Economy/Sinking Oil Prices, Taliban School Massacre, and Battle Against ISIS Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/17). Sony Pictures’ decision to halt the Christmas Day release of “The Interview” after the company’s computers were hacked and theaters threatened with violence; the potential candidates for president in 2016; a call by President Obama to renew relations with Cuba; the troubled Russian economy and the sinking price of oil; the massacre of more than 150 school children in Pakistan by the Taliban; and the battle against ISIS were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Taking Care of Business
Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS magazine
LOS ANGELES — Those fancying a career in radio typically lead a nomadic existence, as they pay their dues in small markets and relocate numerous times – often before even reaching their 30th birthday.
Such was not the case however for Tom Sullivan, whose resumé cites just one radio station – Sacramento’s heritage talk outlet KFBK.
For the past six years, Sullivan has hosted a three-hour (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm) show on Fox News Radio and he can be seen weekends fronting his own program on the Fox Business Channel.
First Social Media
As a teenager growing up in Seattle, Sullivan made it a top priority to meet one of the Emerald City’s major radio personalities, who graciously wound up asking if he wanted to get a first-hand look at how radio works. “I hung out with him during his shift,” Sullivan fondly recalls. “I had that interest in radio then, but I think many [others that age] did at the time because that is where we got our music. Radio was our social world.”
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Overnight: The Underexploited Daypart. Consultant Walter Sabo suggests more talk radio operators should take advantage of the overnight daypart – the one it wins by default. Citing a Media Audit report indicating talk radio has the largest overnight audience, Sabo contends that – contrary to conventional wisdom – there is money to be made there and other opportunities on which to capitalize. Read his exclusive TALKERS article here.
Can Radio Afford to be Rated Accurately? That’s really the question that should be asked as Arbitron loses accreditation for five PPM markets. The Media Rating Council is informing Arbitron, Inc. that accreditation for the Portable People Meter in five markets – Cleveland; Portland, Oregon; Riverside-San Bernardino; Salt Lake City-Ogden-Provo; and Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater – is being withdrawn. The MRC says its board of directors “reached this decision upon consideration of a recommendation from an MRC audit committee based on its review of the 2011 Arbitron PPM service audit results, which showed certain issues related to internal controls of the service and declines in service performance metrics.” Arbitron EVP, service innovation and chief research officer Gregg Lindner says, “Consistent with our long-standing priorities, we will work to retain accreditation where we have it, to regain accreditation where it was withdrawn and to achieve accreditation in our remaining PPM markets. As always, we will continue our work with the MRC in order to address their concerns.” Arbitron says it intends to have all 48 PPM markets undergo MRC audits this year. Currently, nine markets remain accredited: Atlanta, Cincinnati, Houston (DMA), Kansas City, Milwaukee-Racine, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and St. Louis. Although details remain vague, TALKERS suspects the problem faced by Arbitron in getting PPM off and running comes down to sample size – a two-fold challenge at this point. First: To get enough radio listeners to participate in the program and follow it diligently while busy and distracted; second, to expend the money required to have enough units and participants per market needed to achieve statistical accuracy – an investment that ultimately falls on the back of the financially strapped radio business.
CBS Radio Alters WINS, New York Top-of-the Hour Slogan. Some observers will call it a win for Merlin Media CEO Randy Michaels who challenged CBS Radio’s use of the “New York’s One and Only News Station” for all-news WINS. After a back-and-forth of letters from lawyers regarding station slogans and positioning statements in which CBS Radio first asked
Merlin to stop using a permutation of its “Give us 22 minutes and we’ll give you the world” slogan, it seems both sides may be moving forward with the business of doing news. That’s probably best since we’re assuming neither desire to spend more on lawyers than necessary. TALKERS legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman says each side could have made a case. Weisman says CBS could reasonably argue that Merlin was infringing upon its trademark and Merlin could make a good argument that CBS’ use of the “one and only” phrase regarding its all-news radio product violated the Lanham Act (false advertising) in light of WEMP-FM’s existence.
Radio Pros Lee Abrams and Steve Saslow Plan Reinvention of TV News. Radio programming legend Lee Abrams and marketing and network radio pro Steve Saslow are teaming up with attorney Brandon Davis to form THINK TeleVisual Network, Inc. In a statement, the trio say they will “elevate the television news playbook into the digital age with a radical reinvention of the way news and information is produced and delivered.” THINK states its programming will be “designed to present one unified televisual news experience across every device category. It represents a profound rewriting of the news/information blueprint where a completely new style of presentation will merge with the magic of 21st century technology and modern American culture.” Lee Abrams says, “News and information is what is steering our 21st century America, the equivalent of what rock ‘n roll was forty years ago. THINK will merge this passion for information, knowledge and insight with the revolution in technology to create an interactive multi-media experience that will redefine how people are informed and enlightened.” Initially funded by the three principals, the venture is currently going through another round of fundraising in collaboration with the Boston-based investment firm Kaufman & Company.
Clear Channel’s KFBK Celebrates 90 Years of Serving Sacramento. News/Talk KFBK-AM/FM, Sacramento is celebrating 90 years on the air serving the people of the region. As part of the commemoration, the station is unveiling an online museum “that will showcase and honor the station’s rich and storied history. The museum will include audio clips, photos and videos that will transport listeners back in time to relive KFBK’s evolution.” Other events throughout the day include Premiere Networks superstar Rush Limbaugh joining KFBK morning news anchors Amy Lewis and Ed Crane live at 8:00 am where Limbaugh will reminisce about his time at KFBK. At 11:00 am, station staff will open a time capsule left by a past generation of KFBK employees and longtime KFBK talk host Tom Sullivan – now syndicated by Fox News Radio but still heard on the station – joining Kitty O’Neal during the KFBK Afternoon News to commemorate the occasion. VP/market manager Jeff Holden states, “The celebration today is recognition and confirmation that the commitment of the employees – past, present and future – is exactly what Sacramentans, at each point in time over the past 90 years, have so welcomingly accepted into their lives. I couldn’t be more proud to be part of such an illustrious and valuable asset to the region and a part of the team that is making history.”
Clear Channel Quad Cities AM Duo Moves to News/Talk WOC; Piped to WMT, Cedar Rapids. Morning show hosts Mark Manuel and Steve Ketelaar have been hosting the morning drive show on Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s oldies KUUL-FM, East Moline, Illinois for the past four years. Beginning February 20, the duo moves across the hall to handle the morning show on the cluster’s news/talk WOC, Davenport and will be simulcast at CC’s Cedar Rapids news/talker WMT. They’ll replace WOC program director Dan Kennedy as morning host. Kennedy stays in his PD post and will remain on the program as news anchor. Kirk Marske will produce the WOC morning show. According to the Quad City Times, WMT will provide its own news anchor during news cutaways. Clear Channel Davenport operations manager Jim O’Hara tells the paper, “A big thing with us over the past year with Clear Channel in general has been making the best use of our strongest people, our strongest programs. As I’ve thought about that over the last several months, it dawned on me that WOC is one radio station that needs more help, more people.”
Florida Primary Aftermath, Facebook IPO and Earnings Report, U.S. Afghanistan Combat Withdrawl Plan, and Syrian Violence Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/1). The aftermath of Mitt Romney’s victory in the Florida primary, the announcement of a pending Facebook IPO and its first public earnings report, plans for an end to the U.S. combat mission in Afghanistan and ongoing violence in Syria were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
A Brief History of Los Angeles Talk Radio. One of the many highlights of the recent Los Angeles Regional Talkers Forum (October 20) was the presentation of the first-ever Talkers Lifetime Achievement Award to LARadio.com publisher and noted radio historian Don Barrett followed by his brilliant presentation of “A Brief History of Los Angeles Talk Radio.” In the speech, Barrett describes growing up in the beach communities of Southern California and being raised on the great rock ‘n’ roll and top 40 stations of the 1950s. He traces the roots of LA talk radio back to Ben Hoberman’s early experiments with all-talk at KABC in the 1960s and follows the richly colorful route of the format all the way through the decades to present-day juggernaut that is KFI, including fascinating details about the personalities who brought it to life. To see this not-to-be-missed exclusive video presentation, click here.
Former KGO, San Francisco Hosts Gene Burns and Len Tillem to Join Clear Channel Bay Area Station; New Lineups for KNEW and KKSF Announced. The program schedules for Clear Channel’s Bay Area talk stations are official a month after the company announced it would swap calls, and change the image of progressive talk station KKGN. As previously reported, the 960 AM frequency becomes KNEW and 
910 AM will take the new call letters KKSF. What’s new is that former crosstown KGO talk hosts Gene Burns and Len Tillem will become part of the lineup at the new Newstalk 910 (KKSF). The program schedules for the revamped stations are as follows: KNEW – Premiere Networks‘ Glenn Beck, 6:00 am to 9:00 am; Dave Ramsey, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; Premiere‘s Randi Rhodes, 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm; Compass Media Networks‘ Norman Goldman, 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm; Market Wrap, 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm; Dial Global‘s Stephanie Miller, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; Dial Global‘s Thom Hartmann, 10:00 pm to 1:00 am. KKSF – Armstrong & Getty, 6:00 am to 9:00 am; to be announced, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; Fox News Radio‘s Tom Sullivan, 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm; Len Tillem, 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm; and Gene Burns, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Regarding the changes, Clear Channel San Francisco director of operations Don Parker states, “Recent changes in the talk radio market gave us the opportunity to adjust our plans for 960 KNEW. We are excited to broaden 960 KNEW’s position to appeal to a wider variety of Bay Area listeners…We are moving Newstalk 910 into the forefront of the talk genre in the Bay Area. With the addition of Bay Area legend Gene Burns and ‘Radio Lawyer’ Len Tillem to the line-up, we are very excited about the future.”
Rumor: Cumulus Planning FM Talk Flip in Twin Cities. There’s no official word from the company but the talk is hot and heavy in the Minneapolis –St. Paul market that Cumulus Media will flip one of its music FMs to talk in 2012. Cumulus owns classic rock KQRS-FM, active rock KXXR-FM and the classic hits trimulcast of WGVX-FM, WGVY-FM and WGVZ-FM which surround the market. Both the rock stations have done pretty well in the latest Arbitron PPMs so a lot of the chatter has the lower-rated classic hits “Love 105FM” making the switch. Stay tuned.
Wisconsin Public Radio Talk Host Jean Feraca to Retire. The 28-year veteran of Wisconsin Public Radio announces she’ll retire in March from the organization she’s worked at since 1983. Jean Feraca tells the Wisconsin State Journal, “It’s just time.” Speaking to the paper, she hinted at job cuts that clearly have affected her work environment. “I lost everybody in my team earlier this year, and it’s been difficult. This is sensitive stuff and I have to think it through.”
Unresolved Payroll Tax Issue/Congress Recesses, Post-Kim Jong Il North Korea, 2012 Presidential Race and Uncertain Financial Markets Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/20). Congress’ failure to extend the payroll tax cut and its leaving for holiday break, concern over a post-Kim Jong Il North Korea, the GOP race for president in 2012 and the down year for stocks and the ongoing euro zone debt crisis were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing TALKERS magazine research.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Clear Channel to End Progressive Talker KKGN in San Francisco. The progressive talk programming currently heard on KKGN, San Francisco – Green 960 – will not go away entirely; it’ll be available online and on the HD-2 channel of sister oldies KKSF-FM, but since so few people have HD radios anyone seeking shows such as Dial Global’s Stephanie Miller and Thom Hartmann and Compass Media Networks’ Norman Goldman will have to find them online. The “death” of Green 960 comes as Clear Channel makes other changes to its Bay Area talk programming. In the New Year, KKGN flips calls to KNEW, picks up the Fox News Radio affiliation and a new lineup including Glenn Beck in AM drive, followed by Dave Ramsey, then Premiere’s Randi Rhodes (the only holdover from Green 960), and Fox News Radio’s John Gibson. Back at what is currently KNEW (910 AM), that station will take on new calls KKSF and become “San Francisco’s Talk 910 – KKSF.” Armstrong & Getty (piped in from Sacramento) remain in mornings with Dial Global’s Clark Howard, Fox News Radio’s Tom Sullivan and a local PM drive show yet to be announced. What does this mean for the progressive format? Obviously it is a setback for the struggling format, simply because of the loss of a major market. Some observers will point to this situation as an example of the format’s inherent weakness by saying it can’t even make it in San Francisco – one of the most liberal regions in the nation. However others will note that it is harder for a radio format targeted to a political orientation to make it in an area heavily populated by like-minded people because it doesn’t serve a unfilled need. Radio, being a niche medium, often works best in an area where the targeted audience is in the minority and it thus serves to galvanize a critical mass necessary to support a format. That is likely the case in San Francisco.
Detroit Media Personality John Mason Hosts PM Drive on WCHB-AM/FM. Longtime Detroit radio and TV personality John Mason is the new PM drive host on Radio One’s urban news/talk WCHB-AM/FM. Mason most recently hosted the morning drive show on Radio One’s WGPR-FM until late October when the company flipped the format to hip hop. Mason is known for his work as an R&B disc jockey but tells the Detroit News he’s ready for the challenge, “Talk is different – I’m comfortable with it. Quite frankly, the timing is in the vibe of the universe. It’s a progression for me.” Mason’s program airs from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
ESPN Affiliation Bumps Local Sports Duo in Denver. When ESPN programming moves from Lincoln Financial Media’s KEPN to Front Range Sports Network’s KDSP-FM in January, morning hosts Vic Lombardi and Gary Miller will be off the air. The two KCNC-TV sports anchors currently host the 7:00 am to 9:00 am program but the infusion of ESPN programming that is coming with the new affiliation will put ESPN’s “Mike & Mike in the Morning” on the station from 5:00 am to 9:00 am. The Denver Post reports the two would like to land another radio sports talk gig in town. With four sports talk outlets in the market, they may be able to latch on somewhere else. Stay tuned.
Sean Baligian Returns to Sports Talk in West Michigan. Sean Baligian exited the Clear Channel sports talk simulcast of WDFN, Detroit and WMAX-FM, Grand Rapids back in October after his show with co-host Ryan Terpstra was cancelled. Now, Baligian returns to Clear Channel’s WMAX-FM to host the PM drive show. Terpstra, who had been hosting the PM drive show solo, will not be a co-host with Baligian but remains with the station in a different capacity. Baligian tells the Grand Rapids Press, “I like the idea of doing my thing again, just doing my show. I think that’s going to be the biggest difference. It’s just kind of me. No disrespect towards Terp, but it was enticing just to do the solo show again.” Baligian says the show will not be simulcast to Detroit and will focus on West Michigan.
Kevin Matthews Podcast Show Now Available Via Steve Dahl’s Internet Station. Chicago radio fans can now get podcasts from two of its famous (or infamous) broadcasters from one source. Steve Dahl has been podcasting for a couple of years now and the two tell Time Out Chicago’s Robert Feder that Kevin Matthews is producing a weekly podcast as part of the $9.85 monthly fee for Dahl’s content. Matthews – who had an 18-year career on Chicago radio – had been hosting a morning drive show in Grand Rapids until he was recently let go in a budget move. Now, “Kevheads” need look no further than dahl.com for Matthews’ show. Matthews tells Feder, “My vision is to provide unique content, my personality. What is so exciting about this adventure is no rules. A podcast may last 45 minutes, maybe two or three hours. Content is key. I know when to exit a program.” Steve Dahl says he hopes to expand. “I’m hoping that after we post his first show and he sees the response, he’ll start thinking about making it a daily show. We are set up to do that technically…This is the future of personality radio and anybody who is delivering good content will sooner or later be charging for it.” Matthews returned to Grand Rapids – the city where he got his start in radio – after losing his Chicago radio job. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2008 and says he prefers to take things more slowly these days.
WXOS-FM, St. Louis Does Live Remote Charity Toy Drive. Hubbard Broadcasting’s ESPN 101 (WXOS-FM) in St. Louis is taking its “Fast Lane” afternoon show on the road to five different locations over the course of five days to solicit toy donations to benefit the St. Louis Crisis Nursery. WXOS-FM program director Kent Sterling says, “We have some of the best jobs in the world, but the most rewarding part of our work is when we dedicate ourselves to helping those who often do without – especially during the holidays.” Pictured here are (from l-r) show hosts Bob Ramsey, an unidentified man, Randy Karraker and D’Marco Farr.
Occupy L.A. Cleared, 2012 Presidential Race, Michael Jackson Doctor Sentenced and European Debt Crisis Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/29). The police action to clear the Occupy Los Angeles protesters, the GOP candidates for president in 2012, the sentencing of Michael Jackson doctor Conrad Murray and the ongoing European debt crisis were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday.
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