Tag: "WNYC"
Thursday, June 11, 2020
Beasley Media Group Extends Furloughs and Pay Reductions. In a memo to company employees, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley announced that the furlough and pay reduction program begun in April and set to expire at the end of June is being continued through the end of the calendar year. In early April
Beasley eliminated 67 positions, furloughed some staffers, and cut hours for full-time employees. Beasley told her employees, “No one could have ever anticipated that several of our markets would not begin the first phase of the reopening process until June. As a result, we must continue to adapt to the new financial environment we are facing within each of our individual markets.” Beasley herself continues taking her 20% pay cut while the 10% salary reduction and pared-back hours for full-timers continues through December. Beasley did say if circumstances change, some furloughed employees could return to work sooner.
WPHT, Philadelphia’s Dom Giordano Tackles the COVID-19 Education Crisis in Two-Hour Special. WPHT, Philadelphia “Talk Radio 1210” presented its midday host Dom Giordano’s timely education special titled, “The Looming Learning
Crisis.” The two-hour special talk program, written and hosted by Giordano – a former Pennsylvania public school teacher – aired on June 4 and 6 and featured U.S. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY), American Federation of Teachers president Randi Weingarten, Philadelphia superintendent of schools William Hite and other top officials debating whether students will return to schools in September and how parents can make up for the lost academic ground experienced this year. A variety of opposing views were presented but all agreed that this is a critical issue that is not being debated and discussed enough in the media. The program received rave reviews from listeners and sponsors alike for its even-handed and highly informational approach to the subject.
Alpha Media to Present Companywide Broadcast on Racial Tensions. Tomorrow (6/12) at 10:00 am, Alpha Media will present “United For Justice – A Day of Discussion” that will air on its 65-plus radio stations as well as on the website UnitedForJustice.com. The company says that “The Day of Discussion” will “address the pain that communities are going through due to racial tensions in
America. It will feature prominent national and local voices and figures on the front lines in the fight for equality and justice.” Along with radio personalities in Alpha markets, hosts will include Skyview Networks’ Nick Cannon and Dana Cortez, Ebro Darden, Laura Stylez, Tino Cochino, Big Boy, Jubal Fresh, and Radio Hall of Fame host Tom Joyner. Joining anchor host Nick Cannon will be Snoop Dogg, T.I., Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), California Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Arizona State Senator Martin Quezada (D-29th Dist.), and Black Lives Matter co-founder Dr. Melina Abdullah. Apple Music host Ebro Darden will speak with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA) about how the nation is being impacted and the steps we can take towards progress. Alpha Media president and CEO Bob Proffitt says, “The events of the last few weeks are reminding us that this is not a new problem but one that needs to be addressed right now. We have what many other companies do not have, a real medium for change. We should not and cannot allow it to go unused. We are united in that we love the communities we live in. We are united in our love for broadcasting. We are united in the comfort that we have each other’s support. And today, I’m asking that we are united for justice.”
Round Three of May PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s May 2020 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas,
Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s May 2020 survey period covered April 23 – May 20. You can see all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets noting the slight erosion of weekly, 6+ AQH share numbers that so many all-news and 
news/talk stations built up over the March and April sweeps. In Portland, Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM lost a full share, finishing the month with a 6.0 share and the #3 rank in the market. Entercom’s WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte loses seven-tenths but remains in the #3 spot with a 6.3 share. In San Antonio, iHeartMedia’s WOAI-AM sheds eight-tenths to wrap the month with a 7.1 share and the #2 rank. iHeartMedia’s KFBK, Sacramento falls 2.2 shares to a 9.4 share but remains ranked #1. Bonneville’s KSL-AM/FM, Salt Lake City drops 2.8 shares and falls from #1 to #4 on the strength of a 6.0 share. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.
Police Reform Protests/De-Funding Movement, COVID-19 Statistics & Projections, Presidential Race/Elections, Recession/Financial Markets, and NASCAR Bans Confederate Flag Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/10). The ongoing police reform protests, the destruction of Confederate and colonial-era statues, Seattle’s “autonomous” zone, and the related de-fund the police movement; the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and the spike in case numbers in some states; the November presidential election and procedural problems at some primary and local elections; the U.S. officially enters a recession and activity in the world’s financial markets; and NASCAR bans Confederate flag images in all its sanctioned events were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS News Notes. Public media organization WNYC announces that San Francisco Chronicle editor-in-chief Audrey Cooper is named the newest editor-in-chief for WNYC. Corporation chief content officer Andrew Golis tells staffers that in
this role, Cooper “will oversee our local news operations: the WNYC newsroom (radio and Gothamist) and our local talk shows, ‘The Brian Lehrer Show’ and ‘All of It.’ News director Sean Bowditch, Gothamist executive editor Jen Chung, and head of live radio Megan Ryan will report to her.” He adds that at the Chronicle, Cooper “guided a 200-person newsroom through dramatic growth in its ambition and audience, all while sharply increasing the diversity of its staff. As CJR wrote a few years ago, under Audrey’s leadership there’s been ‘a near consensus, inside and outside the Chronicle, that the paper is doing its best work in years, perhaps ever.’”…..Hartford, Connecticut outlet WFSB-TV and Connoisseur Media’s radio stations are joining forces to deliver a live broadcast about race and justice featuring community leaders in Connecticut this evening at 7:00 pm. The
program is being co-hosted by WFSB-TV’s Dennis House and urban AC WYBC OM and afternoon host Juan Castillo. Featured on the program will be Chaz from the “Chaz & AJ in the Morning” show that airs on rock WPLR and WFOX “95.9 The Fox.” The conversation will include Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Connecticut NAACP president Scot Esdaile, Milford police chief and Connecticut Police Chiefs Association president Keith L. Mello, and assistant United States Attorney Ndidi N. Moses. Connoisseur Media CEO Jeffrey Warshaw says, “This is a vital topic for our communities, and 
profoundly important to Connoisseur Media. We continue to commit resources to helping our society move forward to a brighter future together.”…..ESPN announces it is using Megaphone publishing and ad insertion for its network of podcasts, beginning in July. The Megaphone suite will offer ESPN enterprise-level podcast hosting, publishing, dynamic ad insertion, campaign management, forecasting, and analytics tools in supporting podcasts such as: “Fantasy Focus Football” with Matthew Berry, Field Yates, and Stephania Bell; “The Lowe Post” with Zach Lowe; “The Woj Pod” with Adrian Wojnarowski, “The Hoop Collective” with Brian Windhorst, The “SVPod” with Scott Van Pelt, and “ESPN Daily” with Mina Kimes.
Salem Radio Network Star Larry Elder Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. African American conservative talk show host Larry Elder of Salem Radio Network is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Elder is an LA-based attorney, author, and documentary filmmaker who represents the conservative African American view that, in many ways, runs counter to the popular political narrative that there is systemic and institutional anti-black racism in America in 2020 as so vividly depicted
in the disturbing George Floyd video. Elder believes that message is overblown and sensationalized by liberal politicians, the Democratic Party, the mainstream media, and professional lifelong race baiters – and actually keeps African Americans down, casting them in the role of perennial victims. Harrison states, “Last week on the podcast we presented an in-depth conversation with SiriusXM Satellite Radio ‘Urban View’ channel personality Joe Madison who presented a passionate and compelling case for the message of the Black Lives Matter movement. But anyone who listens to news/talk radio knows that is not the only perspective on the topic and not all African Americans are of the same mind when it comes to the issue. Having Larry Elder on the podcast this week rounds out the conversation that exists among African Americans about the issue.” To listen to the podcast with Larry Elder in its entity as well as last week’s conversation with Joe Madison, 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.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Singer-songwriter H.E.R. debuted a brand-new song titled, “I Can’t Breathe,” – written in response to racial injustice – on Wednesday evening’s iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series Presented by State Farm. The performance streamed on iHeartRadio’s YouTube channel and across iHeartMedia urban and urban AC stations across the country and benefitted Meals on Wheels and Urban League…..Compass Media Networks nationally syndicated talk host Dede
McGuire is hosting a Facebook Live Community Conversation about race in America this evening (6/11) at 8:00 pm ET. She’ll be talking with some of her “DeDe in the Morning” affiliate stations about what is happening in their cities. Representative cities are Dallas; Pittsburgh; Milwaukee; Tyler, Texas; and New Haven, Connecticut…..Next week (June 15-19) the ladies are once again taking over Westwood One Nashville’s “Nights with Elaina” show after a successful first round last month. Maren Morris, Kelsea Ballerini, Hillary Scott from Lady Antebellum, Karen Fairchild from Little Big Town, Maddie & Tae, Lauren Alaina, and Runaway June will each take the mic one evening and take the fans into their living rooms for a night of country music fun. Elaina Smith says, “I am so excited and thankful to be doing this again. The ladies of country continue to prove that they are not only insanely talented with their music, they are also hilarious, brilliant, genuine women that do such an amazing job of connecting on every level with our listeners.”
Monday, April 27, 2020
Monday Memo: Freebie-of-the-Year? Commercial broadcasters subsist on advertising by businesses, most-of-which are OUT of business now. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke points to a research report “that recommends specific, tested guidance for crafting messages to convey our clients’ – and our stations’ – concern for listeners in a way that will resonate long after the pandemic passes.” Read it here.
The U.S. Coronavirus Cases and the Death Toll, Weekend ‘Reopening’ Activities, Presidential Race/Biden Accuser, CCP’s Coronavirus Response, ‘SNL,’ and NFL Draft Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and the death toll from the pandemic; the “re-opening” activities taking place in some states; the November presidential election and case of former Joe Biden senate staffer Tara Reade who claims Biden sexually assaulted her in 1993; scrutiny of the Chinese Communist Party’s handling of the coronavirus epidemic; Brad Pitt plays Dr. Tony Fauci on “Saturday Night Live”; and the 2020 NFL Draft were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pending Business: Seven Simple Steps. Sales and marketing consultant Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications, writes in today’s column that it’s not easy doing business in this uncertain time. Yes, audience levels for news/talk are up! But, “you know ad sales are down. More listeners are tuning in, yet co-workers are getting laid off. Fear is dominating the content and fear is the most difficult business condition to sell through. All markets hate fear and uncertainty. Adapting to this pandemic environment challenges everything we know.” Read Lapa’s suggestions for helping you adapt here.
Investor Leases XEPRS; Will Launch ‘The Mightier 1090’ This Summer. The San Diego Union Tribune reports that Flagstaff, Arizona ad agency owner Bill Hagen is signing a five-year lease with XEPRS, Rosarito, Mexico owner Interamericana de
Radio to operate the station. The signal – for some 16 years a San Diego sports talk station branded “The Mighty 1090” – stopped airing sports talk after previous lessee Broadcasting Company of the Americas was unable to renegotiate its lease. Hagen tells the paper that former “Mighty 1090” sports talk host Scott Kaplan will rejoin the station but the soon-to-be-rebranded “The Mightier 1090” will not be 24/7 sports talk. Hagen says the station will be about “lifestyle.” He has no specific date for launching the format but tells the Union Tribune, “We have a ton of work to do.”
PodcastOne Subscribes to Nielsen’s Podcast Listener Buying Power Service. Podcasting firm PodcastOne announces that it has entered into a deal with Nielsen to use the ratings giant’s Podcast Listener Buying Power service. As part of the deal, PodcastOne will “have access to podcast insights spanning 18 genres and
numerous listening preferences that can be cross-referenced among a variety of consumer purchase behavior patterns and services usage.” Nielsen says its Podcast Listener Buying Power Service (launched last August) allows clients to see the qualitative profile of their shows using program titles collected from subscribers in order to connect specific types of listeners with advertisers and key brand categories. PodcastOne EVP of sales Sue McNamara says, “Nielsen represents the addition of another powerful tool to our arsenal of research resources. With these insights, we’ll be able to use podcast listener analytics to provide ourselves and our clients with information that will accelerate monetization opportunities. With programming in virtually every content category, this information will provide us invaluable research to communicate our importance to podcast advertisers, as well as our partners.”
Emmis to Voluntarily Delist from Nasdaq. The company says in a statement that it plans to voluntarily delist its Class A Common Stock from the Nasdaq Stock Market, and based upon ownership of its shares by fewer than 300 holders of record, deregister its Class A Common Stock and suspend its public reporting obligations.
Emmis Communications CEO Jeff Smulyan says, “We’ve undertaken a detailed and thoughtful review of the costs and benefits associated with being a Nasdaq-listed and SEC reporting company. After careful consideration, our board of directors unanimously decided to voluntarily delist from Nasdaq and deregister with the SEC as we believe the expected savings of more than $1 million per year outweigh the advantages of continuing as a Nasdaq-listed and SEC reporting company.” After the delisting takes place, Emmis’ Class A Common Stock is eligible for trading on an over-the-counter market, if one or more brokers choose to make a market for the Company’s Class A Common Stock, however, there can be no assurances regarding any such trading.
BIA Advisory: Radio to Take $1.7 Billion Ad Hit Due to COVID-19. Revising its advertising revenue projections for 2020 that were originally laid out in November of last year, BIA Advisory Services now expects the total for all U.S. local advertising across all platforms to be $144.3 billion, down 10.6% from its November 2019
projection of $161.3 billion. Over the air radio is expected to lose $1.7 billion as it and local television are being hit hard by “decreased ad spend by Leisure and Entertainment, Restaurants and Retail companies, as well as sports cancellations.” The report goes on to say, “One encouraging element is that political advertising will keep the decrease in both local cable and local OTA television smaller than other media. Other media, without that buffer, will see larger percentage decreases from what BIA originally projected for 2020.” For radio, political advertising is situational – stations in swing states tend to get more presidential advertising than those in non-swing states.
TALKERS News Notes. Some of the hosts of the New Hampshire-based, nationally syndicated “Free Talk Live” talk radio program attended a rally at the state house in
Concord to protest the social distancing measures in place. Hosts including show founder Ian Freeman, Nobody, Vincent, and Captain Kickass were there. Freeman reports that the local police ignored the event. He was quoted by the Associated Press in its national coverage, saying, “Even if the virus were 10 times as dangerous as it is, I still wouldn’t stay inside my home. I’d rather take the risk and be a free person.”…..This Thursday (4/30), a national radiothon will take place to raise funds for Feeding America and its 200-member network of local food banks across the U.S. It’s called, “Radio Cares: Feeding America Emergency Radiothon,” and is open to any radio station wishing to join……Condolences to the family and friends of WNYC, New York personality Richard Hake, who passed away on Friday (4/24) at age 51 from natural causes. He as most recently serving as the local host of WNYC’s “Morning Edition.” He also worked on the national; editions of NPR programs “Weekend Edition” and “All Things Considered.”
Talk Host Wayne Allyn Root Organizes Las Vegas Protest Parade. Pictured above is Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk show host Wayne Allyn Root thanking participants in Friday’s “Open Nevada, Unleash Prosperity, Save America Patriot Caravan.” Root organized the parade of vehicles that drove down Las Vegas Boulevard to protest the business shutdowns due to social distancing that has all but shuttered the tourist-reliant economy there. The Las Vegas Sun estimates 500 cars took part in the event but Root says there were “thousands and thousands of cars!”
PPM Analysis: Rock. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s March 2020 PPM survey, today focusing on the rock format. In this report, you can see which stations improved from the February survey, how their weekly, 6+ AHQ shares changed from a year ago, and how some of the format’s best performers ranked in their local markets. See it all here.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Philadelphia, “Lady B in the Afternoon” debuts on Radio One’s rhythmic oldies WPPZ-FM “Classix 107.9” today (4/27). Station program director Jay Dixon says, “Afternoons is where Lady B shines. Philly radio grew up on Lady B. We’re so happy to have her
back in this time slot – bridging music, the community, and people – every weekday. With her team, DJ Touchtone and Roxi Fab, Lady B is like medicine for the soul.”…..Alpha Media’s country KGNC-FM, Amarillo, Texas adds the “Big D & Bubba” show for mornings, starting today (4/27). The duo say, “It is such an honor to be given the reigns of such a legendary station! We appreciate Alpha and their leadership giving us 
this opportunity.” The “Big D & Bubba Show” is distributed nationally via a partnership between Silverfish Media and Compass Media Networks…..This Wednesday (4/29) “The iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series Presented by State Farm” will launch, featuring some of the biggest artists in music. The series will video stream and broadcast every Wednesday to celebrate the importance of community and being a “good neighbor” through the power of music during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wednesday’s performance will feature country artist Thomas Rhett. It will stream on iHeartRadio’s YouTube Channel and broadcast across iHeartRadio stations nationwide at 7:00 pm local time. iHeartMedia Entertainment Enterprises president John Sykes says, “The living room has become the new stage. Until our live music events return, this is a way for millions of fans to stay connected to their favorite artists, while staying safe at home. We are excited to partner with State Farm on this new music series.”
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Late Night Legend Jim Bohannon Renews with Westwood One. Nationally syndicated, late night talk radio legend Jim Bohannon signs a multi-year extension with Westwood One to continue hosting his “The Jim Bohannon Show.” Westwood One says the show – a “unique mix of topical issues, newsmakers, and pop culture which informs and entertains a loyal
audience” – airs on more than 250 affiliate stations. Bohannon (the self-proclaimed “militant moderate”) says, “I’m honored to be continuing the apex of my career, working with the wonderful professionals at Westwood One. As ‘The Jim Bohannon Show’ approaches the 26-year mark next month, I promise that 
we’ll continue to offer the best in news, analysis, and sometimes, just pure fun every weeknight.” During his career, Bohannon has been the recipient of numerous awards. He’s been a member of the TALKERS magazine “Heavy Hundred” every year since 1995; he’s been given the RTDNA First Amendment Award; was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2003; and this year won his second prestigious Gold Medal Award from the New York Festivals Radio Awards for the Westwood One News retrospective, “Pain & Pride: Remembering Vietnam – 50 Years Later.” WWO executive vice president, news and talk Bart Tessler says, “Jim is the gold standard of a talk show host. I’ve traveled with him on assignment to Moscow and Tokyo and from New York to California and I continue to learn and laugh listening to him nightly. The evening wouldn’t be the same without the breaking news coverage and perspective from ‘The Jim Bohannon Show.’”
Skyview Networks Enters Sales Partnership with Alpha Media. Radio operator Alpha Media enters into an agreement with Skyview Networks for the company to lead Alpha’s
network audio sales efforts, beginning in the New Year. Skyview has eight sales offices across the country (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Miami) and Alpha says its stations reach more than 127 million listeners per week. Skyview EVP/general 
manager Jeanne-Marie Condo says, “We’re excited to deliver Alpha’s strong network reach to clients. Alpha has a powerful footprint that delivers key stations, markets, and impressions that will make a difference for agencies. We are thrilled to partner with Alpha and be part of their amazing success.” Alpha Media CEO/president Bob Proffitt comments, “We are excited to work with Skyview. This partnership will allow Alpha to compete in the network arena. The Skyview team has been very professional, transparent, and aggressive which fits very well with our operating philosophy.”
WXOS-FM, St. Louis Renews ESPN Affiliation. St. Louis sports talker WXOS-FM “101 ESPN” signs a five-year extension with ESPN to continue its affiliation with the sports giant.
The Hubbard Radio sports talker debuted back in 2009 and celebrates its 10th anniversary next month. The renewal means WXOS will continue to air ESPN Radio programming, including: “Sports Center,” “First and Last,” “Golic and Wingo,” “The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” and “Freddie and Fitzsimmons,” in addition to its stable of local shows that air from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The station also airs ESPN Radio-produced play-by-play for the NFL, NBA, MLB and NCAA athletics. WXOS program director Chris “Hoss” Neupert says, “Hubbard Radio management and the ‘101 ESPN’ team want to thank our listeners and the St. Louis community for their continued support over the last 10 years. Our entire team is looking forward to the strengthening of our partnership with the ESPN Radio Network and the opportunity to offer innovative content and exclusive interviews, analysis and coverage for St. Louis’ sports fans.”
Laura Walker to Leave New York Public Radio in March. Non-profit public media organization New York Public Radio operates public radio news/talk WNYC
-FM, classical WQXR-FM, the New Jersey Public Radio network and more. NYPR president Laura Walker– called a “prolific fundraiser” by former NPR CEO Vivian Schiller – announces she’ll leave the organization at the end of March, three months before the end of her contract. According to the story on WNYC.org, Walker became president of NYPR in 1996, as it had just become independent of the city. Under her leadership, listenership grew exponentially, its budget grew from $1 million per year to $93.7 million and it became an early leader in digital content such as podcasts. Read the WNYC.org story here.
TALKERS News Notes. The rebuilding in Florida’s panhandle is the subject of a series of
reports from CBS News Radio’s correspondent Peter King (pictured at right with students and faculty members of a local school). The news organization says that King spent time in Mexico Beach, Panama City, and Tallahassee speaking with residents, officials, and volunteers ahead of the holiday season. Short-form reports and long-form, in-depth interviews will be made available on newsfeed every 
morning and afternoon of next week…..Pictured at left is Bold Gold Media Group general manager Michael G. Stanton taking a shower on Main Street in downtown Honesdale, Pennsylvania for his 17th annual “Shower For Charity.” Stanton stayed in the show for four hours in nothing but his swim suit until listeners and local businesses helped him meet his goal of raising $20,000 for the Wayne County Children’s Christmas Bureau. Bold Gold is based in Northeast Pennsylvania operating a number of stations in the Pocono Lake Region. The station group also held a very successful toy drive to benefit the area’s children in need. Bold Gold founder and president Vince Benedetto says, “It’s profoundly moving how generous of a community we have in Northeast PA and how much they support our stations’ efforts. Several years ago, when we made the decision to attempt to do two large fundraising efforts concurrently, we wondered if both could be successful… but our listeners rally every year and the promotions
continue to get bigger. Live, local radio is alive and booming in Northeast PA.”…..At right are two KLIF-AM, Dallas staffers with school officials from Charles Nash Elementary School in Fort Worth holding the ceremonial check for funds donated to the school. The Cumulus Media news/talk station teamed with Ed Wallace of the Saturday car show “Wheels with Ed Wallace” and Kwik Kar Industries for the 30th Annual KLIF Kids Toy Drive. Listeners and auto dealerships contributed more than $46,000 for kids at two different schools in Dallas and Fort Worth…..Nationally syndicated talk show host Dr. Daliah Wachs (right) is pictured below with magician Penn Jillette (left) promoting the importance of blood donations via the “13 Bloody Days of Christmas” campaign.
Trump-Russia Investigation, Trumps Orders Troops Out of Syria, Putin Presser, Dow Dips 350 Points/Fed Raises Interest Rates, Border Wall Battle/Short Term Spending Bill, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/19). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and Tuesday’s related sentencing hearing for former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn; President Trump orders the swift exit of all U.S. troops from Syria; Vladimir Putin’s annual press conference in which he addressed issues including the threat of nuclear conflict; the Dow drops 350 points and concerns about a recession as the Fed raises interest rates; the battle over funding the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the related short-term spending bill; and the week’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
ONLY TWO DAYS LEFT to Register as an Early Bird for Talkers 2019 Convention! The opportunity to save $50 in registering for Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will end this Friday, December 21 at 5:00 pm ET. The 22nd annual installment of the longest-running, most-important national talk media convention has been set for Friday, June 7, 2019 in New York City. Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will take place again at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater located in the colorful Chelsea district of Manhattan. The conference will feature more than 50 top speakers from all aspects of the spoken-word media industry – including talent, programmers, managers and owners – with a focus on talk radio and its role in the rapidly accelerating digital age. This will include programming, sales, marketing, and technology as well as the full spectrum of concerns, challenges and opportunities facing modern-day talk broadcasters and broadcasting organizations. It will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats, one-on-one conversations and exhibits of the latest services and equipment available to broadcasting professionals. Like its predecessors, Talkers 2019: Telling the Story will also provide its attendees with unparalleled networking opportunities and social mixers including breakfast, lunch, and a closing cocktail reception — all in a single, power-packed day! Full agenda details, speaker roster and hotel information will be posted in TALKERS during the days and weeks ahead. As is customary with TALKERS conventions, Talkers 2019: Telling the Story is only open to members of the professional media industry and communications students. Because seating is limited, and the event has been an early sellout every year since the 1990s, in order to maintain this policy, non-refundable registrations can only be purchased via telephone with a credit card. Full registration, including all functions, meals, and refreshments, costs $329 per person. However, those registering before 5:00 pm ET on December 21, 2018 pay only $279. To register or obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Classic hits KONO-FM and oldies KONO-AM, San Antonio director of programming Roger Allen announces he’s retiring from the Cox Media Group duo, effective January 11. Allen started his radio career right out of high school at KONO-AM in 1981, working in research and
weekend overnights. He worked in markets including Dallas, Austin, and Salt Lake City before returning to KONO-FM in 1998. Allen comments, “We have an exceptional team at KONO-FM and AM – a group that delivers great content with passion and emotion. It’s been a humbling experience serving the San Antonio community, the Cox family and our loyal listeners.” This opens a plum programming position in San Antonio. If you’re interested, contact CMG regional vice president of radio Rob Babin at Rob.Babin@coxinc.com…..Chicago media maven Robert Feder reports that when iHeartMedia’s adult contemporary WLIT puts the wraps on its holiday programming, it will change its branding from “The Best Variety From the 80’s, 90’s and Now for Chicago!” to “Relaxing Favorites.”…..With the departure of Nancy Stevens from Hubbard Radio’s alternative KDKB, Phoenix “ALT AZ,” operations manager David Moore adds program director duties for that station. Moore also programs sister stations classic rock KSLX and 
oldies KAZG-AM. The station also names afternoon drive personality Dustin Carlson music director…..Radio pro Jenna Tucker joins Cumulus Media Indianapolis to serve as digital director for its country WFMS, classic hits WJJK, and CHR WYRG. She’ll also host middays on WFMS. Tucker comes to Indy from her most recent position at Bonneville’s country KNCI, Sacramento where she
was midday jock…..Griffin Communications announces that country KVOO, Tulsa adds Amber Glaze to the morning drive program hosted by Marty Young. The new “VOO Crew with Marty and Amber” launches on January 2. Young comments, “From the moment I met Amber, I knew that she would bring a dynamic to the show that was amazing. After working with her for a week, I was sold. I cannot wait to get to work with Amber every morning on ‘The VOO Crew.’”
Thursday, December 7, 2017
WNYC Suspends Lopate and Schwartz During Investigation into Sexual Impropriety. Two of New York Public Radio’s most storied voices are currently on leave from its WNYC, New York while the company investigates allegations of sexual
impropriety, reports The New York Times. Leonard Lopate – host of the WNYC 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm interview program – and American standards expert Jonathan Schwartz are both being investigated by NYPR. Though the details of allegations against both are not public knowledge at this point, New York Public Radio chief Laura Walker says the company “takes these kinds of allegations very seriously and is reviewing these matters promptly.” WNYC host Mary Harris hosted the 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm show yesterday (12/6) and NYPR has not announced who might be handling Schwartz’s duties in the interim.
Stephen K. Bannon Returns to Breitbart’s SiriusXM Show. Before he was part of the Donald Trump campaign and then White House chief strategist, Stephen K. Bannon was hosting the morning drive “Breitbart News Daily” radio program on the SiriusXM 
Patriot channel. Now, the Breitbart executive chairman is getting back behind the microphone alongside Breitbart editor-in-chief Alex Marlow to again host the program. In a statement, Bannon says, “As I have said all along, everything I brought to the Trump campaign came directly from the listeners I spoke with every morning on ‘Breitbart News Daily’ on SiriusXM’s Patriot channel. From the moment I left the White House, getting back behind the microphone was very important to me. To get on the road outside the Beltway and to spend time with the great men and women of America is an honor.”
New Talk Station Debuts on Guam. As Choice Broadcasting managing partner Ray Gibson says, “Guam is where America’s talk radio day begins!” Choice Broadcasting announces the re-launch of KUSG, Tamuning, Guam as “ThePOINT” with new
programs joining the lineup. Those new shows include Premiere Networks’ Rush Limbaugh and “Coast to Coast AM.” Gibson says, “We’ve also signed up Sean Hannity, ‘The Tech Guy with Leo Laporte,’ and we’re really excited about putting ‘Coast to Coast AM’ with George Noory back on the island’s airwaves.” The new shows add to the lineup that already consisted of hourly FOX News Radio news updates, “Brian Kilmeade & Friends,” John Gibson, and Tom Shillue. Gibson notes that since acquiring the license for KUSG, Choice Broadcasting has made a number of improvements to the signal, including the addition of dynamic RDS, which allows most radios to display what show is on the air, weather, promotional announcements and breaking news.
TALKERS News Notes. San Antonio news/talk WOAI “News Radio 1200” raised more than $200,000 during its annual radiothon and silent auction last Friday and Saturday
(12/1-2). The effort benefits the “The Elf Louise Christmas Project,” a local non-profit organization that purchases and delivers toys during the holiday season for Bexar County’s less fortunate children. To date, iHeartMedia’s WOAI has helped raise more than $4.2 million to benefit “The Elf Louise Christmas Project.” Program founder Louise Locker states, “I can’t begin to thank ‘News Radio 1200 WOAI’ and their listeners enough. The spirit was amazing and kept everyone 
going. So many children will have a happier Christmas this year, thanks to this radiothon.”…..Earlier today (12/7), Salem Radio Network host Larry Elder was honored with the annual “Beacon Of Light” award from the Thousand Oaks, California Republican Women Federated. The gala took place at the Thousand Oaks Country Club…..SiriusXM announces the launch of “Stanford Legal,” a bi-weekly show that “will get to the core of some of the legal issues making headlines today.” “Stanford Legal,” part of SiriusXM’s programming arrangement with Stanford University, will premiere on SiriusXM Insight starting Saturday, December 9. It’s co-hosted by Stanford Law professors Pam Karlan and Joe Bankman. The series will feature conversations with attorneys, legal scholars, and leading experts on the news-making topics of the day, including the commercialization of marijuana, the power of prosecutors, President Trump’s travel ban, and more…..ABC Radio is offering a slate of end-of-year programming in
both long- and short-form formats. The long-form shows include: “Playback 2017,” a one-hour special looking at the biggest stories of the year and the newsmakers behind those stories; “2017: As It Happened,” a three-hour retrospective of some of 2017’s top stories, as told through highlights of ABC News Radio’s breaking news coverage; “Powerhouse Politics 2017 in Review” features interviews with the top political newsmakers of the year; “Perspective,” a special year-end edition of ABC News Radio’s award-winning weekly news magazine; and “World News This Year,” taking a look back at the major news events of the past year in 2017’s final edition of the weekly show.
Franken Pressured to Resign/Conyers Resignation, Trump Recognizes Jerusalem as Israel’s Capital, Roy Moore Campaign, Trump-Russia Investigation, California Wildfires, Looming Government Shutdown, North Korea Bangs War Drums, NFL Suspensions, and NBA Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/6). The pressuring of Senator Al Franken to resign his seat in the wake of sexual impropriety allegations and the resignation of Congressman John Conyers; President Trump recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel; the U.S. Senate campaign of former Alabama judge Roy Moore and allegations of sexual predation against him; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the devastating wildfires in Southern California; the possibility of a shutdown of the federal government; North Korea’s statement that war on the Korean peninsula is inevitable; the various suspensions levied against NFL players; and NBA 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. Four programming pros are promoted at the Detroit cluster of Cumulus Media. In no particular order, Matt Laurenic rises from producer to executive producer of the “Blaine Fowler Morning Show” on hot AC WDVD. Mike Gagliano is named FM production director and programming
coordinator. He moves up from his production director position. Adam Ficorelli moves from the cluster’s “Street Team” to promotions manager/swing air talent for country WDRQ “NASH FM 93.1.” Finally, Kendall Taylor is appointed the permanent midday personality and APD at WDVD. She’s been interim midday jock and a weekend personality. Taylor will also serve as a host on Westwood One’s 24-hour hot AC 
format…..Russ Parr re-ups with Reach Media to continue hosting the nationally syndicated “Russ Parr Morning Show.” Urban One’s CEO of Radio One’s stations and Reach Media David Kantor says, “Reach Media is excited that Russ has extended his run as one of our premier syndicated talents and as a vital building block for our stations and Radio One’s position as the country’s ‘urban radio specialist.’” Parr leads the show that includes cast members Alfredas, Supaken, Priya, Vic Jagger, and Albert…..Entercom
Communications names former CBS RADIO VP and director of sales Claudia Menegus SVP and market manager for the Orlando cluster that includes alternative WQMP, classic hits WOCL “1059 Sunny FM,” and hot AC WOMX “mix 105.1.” Entercom regional president Doug Abernethy states, “Claudia is an experienced radio executive who continues to impress us with her business acumen, client relationships and leadership. We’re confident that she’ll lead Orlando stations to new heights.”…..In the Chattanooga market, Entercom names Nichole Hartman SVP and market manager, overseeing the cluster that includes: CHR WKXJ “103.7 Kiss FM,” adult hits WLND “98.1 The Lake,” rock WRXR “Rock 105,” country WUSY “US 101.” Hartman comes to Entercom from her previous position as general sales manager for Cox Media Group’s Jacksonville cluster.
Monday, December 4, 2017
Former WNYC Host John Hockenberry Subject of New York Mag Piece Detailing Harassment Charges. The piece published in New York Magazine, written by author Suki Kim, begins with her experiences with former “The Takeaway” host John
Hockenberry that she terms “uncomfortable” and goes on to chronicle the feelings of a number of former co-workers of Hockenberry’s who say they experienced sexual harassment and bullying behavior. Hockenberry retired from his gig hosting “The Takeaway” in August – at age 61 – with the show at “a high point in its evolution” (garnering 2.7 million weekly listeners). Kim writes that given the show’s success, his departure seemed odd, but says that after interviewing women who worked with him she found they were not as surprised and wondered if he’d finally crossed a line. Read the NYMag piece here.
Toulas to Lead Beasley’s Tampa Cluster. Joining Beasley Media Group to serve as market manager for the Tampa station group is radio management pro George Toulas. He most recently was director of sales and operations for fashion retailer Apricot Lane USA. Prior to that he served as president of sales and operations for iHeartMedia San Antonio. In Tampa, Beasley operates financial talk WHFS-AM, adult contemporary WPBB, CHR WLLD, country WQYK, classic hits WRBQ, and Spanish CHR WYUU. Beasley EVP and COO Brian Beasley states, “We are thrilled to welcome George to the Beasley Media Group family. His proven track record and commitment to excellence is the perfect combination to lead our outstanding team in the Tampa market.”
Miss America on WPGG, Atlantic City. Pictured here is WPGG, Atlantic City morning
drive personality Harry Hurley (left) with Miss America 2018, Cara Mund (right). She was named Miss America during the September competition and it’s traditional for Hurley to interview the Miss America pageant winner since the competition takes place in Atlantic City. Mund is the only Miss North Dakota to become Miss America. She started a “Make-A-Wish Fashion Show” when she was just 14. She was recognized by then-President Barack Obama in 2011 for her charitable efforts.
GOP Tax Reform Bill, Trump-Russia Probe, Roy Moore Candidacy, Sexual Impropriety Cases, Steinle Verdict/Sanctuary Cities, North Korea ICBM Test, College Football Playoffs, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Republican-authored tax reform bill; the investigation into possible connections between the Trump campaign and Russia agents, including Michael Flynn’s guilty plea to lying to the FBI; the U.S. Senate candidacy of Roy Moore; the growing number of cases of allegations of sexual impropriety leveled against celebrities and politicians; the verdicts in the Kate Steinle death case and the related issue of sanctuary cities; the latest ICBM test by North Korea and U.S.-South Korea military drills; the four-team College Football Playoff tournament; and Sunday’s NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend.
WINS, New York’s Lee Harris Delivers Keynote at Hofstra University’s George M. Estabrook Distinguished Service Awards. On Saturday (12/2), the 57th annual Hofstra University George M. Estabrook Distinguished Service Awards were presented to seven Hofstra Alumni honorees. A highlight of the evening was guest speaker Lee Harris – morning drive anchor at Entercom’s WINS, New York – who shared the many important lessons he learned as a young community volunteer broadcaster during his time at Hofstra’s radio station, now WRHU – then WVHC. Pictured above are (from l-r): former CBS Radio News VP Harvey Nagler, SueMedia president Sue Zizza, Harris, The Weiss Agency EVP Heather Cohen, and WINS director of news and programming Ben Mevorach. Photo: Steve DiMaio.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Music programming pro Jim Fox moves from the Sacramento cluster of Entercom Communications where he’s been VP of programming to the company’s Dallas-Fort Worth station group to take on the VP of programming role. He’ll also serve as program director for adult hits KJKK
“JACK FM” and alternative KVIL “ALT 103.7.” Entercom Dallas regional president and market manager Brian Purdy comments, “Jim has guided the alternative format for ‘RADIO 94.7’ and ‘98 Rock’ to exceptional ratings performance in Sacramento. We can count on him for outstanding leadership, strategy, ideas, operation, coaching and partnership.”…..At the iHeartMedia cluster in Cleveland, “Java” Joel Murphy is appointed program director for CHR WAKS-FM “96.5 KISS FM.” Murphy has been with WAKS-FM for the past five years as APD and music director. At the same time, North Ohio Region SVP of programming Keith Abrams is taking on the program director position 
at rock WMMS…..iHeartMedia Baltimore names Mike Preston SVP of programming for the cluster. Preston will also program country WPOC and adult hits WQSR “102.7 JACK FM.” iHM SVP of programming for Washington Jeff Kapugi states, “Mike Preston fits this opening like a glove. I am confident that his leadership and personality will take our Baltimore cluster to new heights.”…..Cumulus Media names Kelly Urich
morning drive host for classic hits KCMO-FM, Kansas City. He’ll debut the “Kelly Urich Mornings” show on December 26. KCMO-FM program director Joe Russo says, “Kelly has a natural ability to communicate with listeners in an authentic and compelling way. A dynamic talent and a Kansas City icon, we are thrilled to bring him back to Kansas City radio in mornings with KCMO-FM.” Urich previously hosted at Entercom’s hot AC KZPT. He also had a long career with CHR KMXV…..Longtime WLYF, Miami “Lite 101.5” program director Rob Sidney exits the Entercom adult contemporary. On a Facebook post, Sidney says, “I’m off on my next adventure. In the new year, I’m eager to once again contribute to a culture of focus, urgency and passion, underscored by integrity. If my broadcast acquaintances know of a smaller, more intimate organization that would make a good fit…please share!”…..iHeartMedia brings the “Lite” brand back to Chicago adult contemporary WLIT after more than four years as “MyFM.” On Friday (12/1), the station became “The New 93.9 Lite FM.”
Round Three of November PPM Data Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio‘s November 2017 PPM survey 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 November 2017 survey period covered October 12 – November 8. View all the ratings from subscribing stations here. Managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Takeaways” from these 12-PPM markets. Please note the Entercom takeover of CBS Radio was concluded nine days after the final day of the November 2017 sweep (11/17); we will cease using CBS Radio references beginning with the December 2017 sweep.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
1) Portland – Owing to its strongest 6+-performance since June 2016’s 5.1, Alpha Media triple A KINK “101.9 Uniquely Portland” progresses from seventh to fifth (4.1 – 4.9, +.8, 6+). Frozen on 2.6 (6+) in May, June, July, and August and then on 2.2 (6+) in September and October, iHeartMedia CHR KXJM “JAM’N 107.5 – Portland’s #1 for Hip-Hop and
Throwbacks” improves by one-half share to 2.7 (#18 to #16), its highest 6+-share since August 2016’s 3.5. The 1.2-share (6+) advantage adult contemporary cluster-mate KKCW “K-103” held over Oregon Public Broadcasting’s news/talk KOPB vanishes completely as “K-103” erodes by nine-tenths (9.2 – 8.3, first to 
second, 6+), while KOPB adds four-tenths (8.0 – 8.4, second to first, 6+). 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 though as KOPB plummeted by -1.1 (9.1 – 8.0, 6+) and returned to its familiar spot at #2. 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. A collective -1.4 in three straight downward trends (9.1 – 8.6 – 8.6 – 7.7, 6+), “K-103” roared back in October with a +1.5 to 9.2, its highest 6+-share since 15.3 in “Holiday” 2016. Prior to segueing to #2 in September, “K-103” was #1 in 39 of the previous 41 ratings periods. A somewhat similar scenario exists regarding the market’s two classic rock players with iHeartMedia’s KFBW “105.9 The Brew” dropping eight-tenths (4.7 – 3.9, 6+) at the same time that Entercom-owned KGON “92.3 Portland’s Classic Rock” gains two-tenths to 3.9 (6+). Thus, KGON erases KFBW’s full-share October lead to catch “The Brew” at #11. Before losing one-half share in October, “The Brew” had its best 6+-share since September 2015’s 5.5. Seven of its recent fluctuations include: +1.0 in April; -.6 in May; +1.1 in June; -.6 in August; +1.1 in September; -.5 in October; and now -.8 in November. Moving up from #13 in October, KGON applies the brakes to four straight declines that accounted for a -1.9 (5.6 – 5.3 – 5.2 – 5.1 – 3.7, 6+); October’s 3.7 was its softest 6+-performance since January’s 3.2. A loss of eight-tenths (2.6 – 1.8, 6+) not only sends Salem Media Group contemporary Christian KFIS from #16 to #19, “104.1 The Fish” records its lowest 6+-share in its PPM-history. After picking up one-half share in October, All Classical Public Media’s KQAC surrenders it in its entirety (3.0 – 3.5 – 3.0, 6+), but carries on at #15. Notwithstanding that it’s up four-tenths in four straight up or flat trends (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.3, 6+), Alpha Media CHR KBFF “Live 95.5” backslides from a three-way tie at #7 to #9. For the fourth month in succession, Entercom-owned KWJJ “99.5 The Wolf – Great Country for the Great Northwest” is without an increase for a combined -1.6 (5.6 – 5.2 – 4.6 – 4.0 – 4.0, 6+) and is unchanged at #10. 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+). Meanwhile, following three straight flat or down monthlies that accounted for a loss of eight-tenths (4.9 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.1, 6+), Alpha Media’s KUPL “98.7 The Bull – #1 For New Country” has a positive spike of three-tenths to 4.4 (6+), continuing at #7. 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. While flat at #6, Entercom hot AC KRSK “105.1 The Buzz – Today’s Best Mix” is off nine-tenths in three straight down or flat moves (5.4 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.5, 6+). After six
successive months without a loss for a +.9 (.6 – .8 – .8 – .8 – .8 – 1.2 – 1.5, 6+), Alpha Media sports talk KXTG “The Game” (#23) slips one-tenth to 1.4 (6+). As iHeartMedia news/talk KEX “News Radio 1190” (#21) extends its successive string of up or flat trends to five for an overall +.4 (1.2 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.6, 6+), Alpha Media’s KXL “FM News 101 – Stay Connected” drops two-tenths to 3.6 (#12 to #13, 6+), halting three straight gains that netted one full-share (2.8 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8, 6+).
2) Charlotte – Off two-tenths in October (5.6 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WKKT “96.9 The Kat – Charlotte’s #1 for New Country” bounces back with an increase more than three times that size (6.1, +.7, 6+), zooming from #6 to a tie at #2. In 
the process, it leapfrogs Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC “Country’s Hottest Hits,” which loses one-tenth (5.8 – 5.7, 6+) and segues from fourth to fifth. 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. On the heels of October’s -.6 (4.3 – 3.7, 6+), University Radio Foundation’s news/talk WFAE “90.7 Charlotte’s NPR News Source” recoups all but one-tenth of that decline (4.2, +.5, 6+) and is back in the top ten (#15 to #9). Between January and September, WFAE was no higher than 4.3 (6+) and no lower than 4.0 (6+) over the course of those nine ratings periods; October’s 3.7 was its lowest 6+-showing since 2.8 in “Holiday” 2016. Similarly
-programmed/Entercom-owned WBT, which was a collective +1.4 in three consecutive improvements (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.4 – 4.0, 6+) and hit the four-share mark (6+) in October for the first time since October 2016’s 4.1, surrenders four-tenths to 3.6 (6+) and shifts from #14 to #16. Following three straight negative trends that resulted in a -1.5 (3.4 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.9, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WQNC “92.7 The Block” posts a +.4 to 2.3 (6+) and remains at #17. In addition to logging its fourth straight increase for an overall +1.2 (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.1 – 6.7 – 6.9, 6+), iHeartMedia classic rocker WRFX “99.7 The Fox” is #1 for 
the third month in a row. 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+). Eight-tenths behind is the aforementioned WKKT, as well as Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV “V-101.9,” which is up four-tenths via three successive sweeps without a loss (5.7 – 5.7 – 5.9 – 6.1, 6+). More than doubling its 6+-stat via five consecutive up or flat moves (.6 – .7 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.6 – 1.6, 6+), sports talk sibling WFNZ “Sports Radio The Fan” progresses
from #19 to #18. A collective +1.1 in three straight gains (3.1 – 3.3 – 3.8 – 4.2, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WEND “106.5 The End – Charlotte’s New Rock Alternative” forfeits three-tenths to 3.9 (6+) and exits the top ten (#10 to #13). Dropping from seventh to eighth, Beasley Media Group urban contemporary WPEG “Power 98” is a combined -1.5 in four straight dips (5.9 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.7 – 4.4, 6+), while its CHR cluster-mate WNKS “Kiss 95.1 – Charlotte’s #1 Hit Music Station” (#10 to #11) is -1.3 in five consecutive declines (5.4 – 5.1 – 4.9 – 4.4 – 4.2 – 4.1, 6+). At the same time that Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian WRCM “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” sputters by four-tenths to 3.8 (#10 to #14, 6+), halting four straight gains that doubled its 6+-share (2.1 – 2.4 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.2, 6+), Radio Training Network’s similarly-formatted WLFJ “His Radio” is -.1 to .5 (#21), stopping five successive sweeps without a loss (.4 – .4 – .4 – .5 – .5 – .6, 6+).
3) San Antonio – In this Texas market’s contemporary Christian genre, Educational Media Foundation’s KZAR “Air1 Positive Hits” registers a full-share increase to 1.9 (#20, 6+) simultaneous with co-owned KZLV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” regressing by eight-tenths (#15 to #19, 6+). Prior to November, KZAR was off a collective seven-tenths as a
result of four consecutive negative moves (1.6 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.1 – .9, 6+); it has its best 6+-showing since February (1.9, as well). Following three upticks in succession that netted eight-tenths (3.4 – 3.7 – 4.0 – 4.2, 6+), KZLV is now -1.8 in October and November (4.2 – 3.2 – 2.4, 6+). Without an increase in each of the previous seven survey periods, Univision Radio’s KXTN is a cumulative -1.7 (3.7 – 3.7 – 2.8 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.0 – 2.0 – 2.0, 6+), but “Tejano & Proud 107.5” racks up a gain of seven-tenths to 2.7 (#19 to #18, 6+). By adding two-tenths to 4.2 (flat at #10, 6+), Alpha Media adult hits KJXK “102.7 Jack-FM Playing What We Want” pulls the plug on three consecutive decreases that accounted for a -.6 (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.4 – 4.0, 6+). Co-owned news/talk KTSA “Stay Connected” posts its fourth straight improvement and is +.7 since July (1.0 – 1.3 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7, #23, 6+). Despite being down by two-tenths 
(7.0 – 6.8, 6+), Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM “101.1 San Antonio’s Greatest Hits” is on top for the 10th successive time. 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; and October’s +.7. No sooner does hot AC sibling KSMG gain seven-tenths (4.4 – 5.1, October 2017, 6+) than it returns it in its entirety; “Magic 105.3 – Today’s Best Music” slips from fourth to sixth (4.4, 6+). In October, “Magic” reached the five-share level for the first time since August 2016’s 5.0. The market’s (6+) country share erodes by eight-tenths: KSMG cluster-mate KCYY “Y-100 San Antonio’s New Country Leader” drops two-tenths (6.0 – 5.8, second to third, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned KAJA “KJ-97 San Antonio’s #1 Country Station” is off six-tenths (4.4, fifth to sixth, 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+). Locked on 5.0 (6+) in September and October, “KJ-97” registered three consecutive uptrends in advance of the August ratings period, for a collective gain of eight-tenths. Meanwhile, Cox Media Group classic country KKYX “Country Legends” is without a loss for the sixth month in a row for an overall +.7 (1.0 – 1.2 – 1.2 – 1.4 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.7, #22, 6+). Unchanged at #13, iHeartMedia-owned CHR KXXM “96.1 Now – San Antonio’s #1 Hit Music Station” has lost a collective -1.2 in four successive down or flat trends, (4.4 – 4.1 – 4.0 – 4.0 – 3.5 – 3.2, 6+). In its third straight dip for an inclusive -1.2 (5.5 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.3, 6+), Cox Media Group’s KISS “99 Rocks” falls from seventh to ninth.
4) Pittsburgh – After trending 5.5 – 5.9 – 5.7 (July – August – September, 6+), CBS Radio sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” surrendered seven-tenths in October, but the Pittsburgh Pirates flagship recoups six-tenths in November 
(5.0 – 5.6, 6+), inching up from sixth to fifth. Conversely, iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WBGG “ESPN Pittsburgh” is without an increase for the sixth month in a row (.3 – .2 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1 – .1, 6+) and is flat at #17. A one-half share improvement by alternative cluster-mate WXDX (4.2 – 4.7, 6+) takes “105.9 The X” to its best 6+-stat since June’s 5.1 with the key station of the Pittsburgh Penguins carrying on at #10. Up three-tenths (10.6 – 10.9, 6+), classic hits-oldies cluster-mate WWSW “94.5 – 3WS” is #1 for the eighth month in a row. 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. Immediately before picking up eight-tenths 
in March, “3WS” was -4.6 since “Holiday” 2016 (13.7 – 9.3 – 9.1, 6+). Falling from #14 to #16, Renda Broadcasting’s similarly-formatted WHJB “Classic Hits 107.1” wipes out the four-tenths it gained through five successive flat or up moves (1.1 – 1.1 – 1.3 – 1.4 – 1.4 – 1.5, 6+) and is back at 1.1 (6+). Following October’s mammoth +1.6, iHeartMedia rocker WDVE relinquishes more than half that bounty (10.2 – 9.2, -1.0, 6+) but continues in second-place for the fifth consecutive sweep. 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. It is a very similar scenario for co-owned CHR WKST “96.1 Kiss FM – Pittsburgh’s #1 Music Station,” which surrenders 80% of October’s +1.0 (8.2 – 7.4, -.8, 6+), but is flat at #3. 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+); August’s 7.0 was the lowest 6+-share for “Kiss” since 6.7 in the “Holiday” 2016 report. A gain of two tenths to 1.3 (6+) enables classical WQED (#16 to #15) to end four straight down or flat trends that accounted for an overall loss of three-tenths (1.4 – 1.3 – 1.2 – 1.1 – 1.1, 6+). It is a mixed bag for the two FM country outlets in the “Steel City.” Despite picking up two-tenths, CBS Radio-owned WDSY “Y-108 Pittsburgh’s Country” backslides from a seventh-place tie to eighth, while iHeartMedia-owned WPGB “Big 104.7 – Pittsburgh’s #1 For New Country” falters by three-tenths (3.3 – 3.0, 6+), dipping from #11 to #12. In an up/down pattern that started in June, “Y-108” is 4.4 – 4.6 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 4.8 – 5.0 (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+). A combined +.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.
5) Sacramento – Not only does CBS Radio’s KNCI regain the nine-tenths it squandered in October, “New Country 105.1” applies the brakes to three consecutive declines that accounted for a collective -1.9 (6.0 – 5.4 – 5.0 – 4.1, 6+) and jumps from eighth to fifth. Prior to October, KNCI hadn’t been below a five-share (6+) since August 2016 (4.7). Remaining at #18, iHeartMedia’s KBEB “92.5 The Bull – #1 for New Country” – has lost 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+). Elsewhere in the country format, Entravision-owned KNTY “101.9 – The Wolf” is a combined -.4 in October and November (3.0 – 2.7 – 2.6, flat at #14, 6+). In October, “The Wolf” 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+). The winning streak continues for
Entercom sports talk KIFM-AM, which shows an increase for the fifth time in a row and vaults from #20 to #16; “ESPN Radio 1320” has nearly tripled its 6-share since June (.8 – .9 – 1.1 – 1.2 – 1.6 – 2.2, 6+). It had been two years since KIFM-FM last reached the two-share level (2.0, November 2015, 6+). Three-tenths ahead of it and flat at #15 is CBS Radio’s similarly-formatted KHTK “Sports 1140,” which extends to six its 
successive string of up or flat trends netting nine-tenths (1.6 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.3 – 2.5, 6+). Adding one-half share to October’s +.6 (4.2 -4.8 – 5.3, 6+), California State University – Sacramento news/talk KXJZ “Capital Public Radio” has its most potent 6+-stat in more than six years (5.3, June 2011), progressing from seventh to fourth. Directly in front of it is iHeartMedia-owned KFBK “NewsRadio – Sacramento’s News, Weather, and Traffic Station,” which is unchanged from October in both 6+share (7.5) and 6+ rank (#3). 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. Up three-tenths to 8.4 (6+), Entercom-owned KSEG is #1 for the fifth straight month; “96.9 The Eagle – Sacramento’s Classic Rock” was a combined -1.6 in September and October (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.1, 6+). By adding one-tenth to 3.8 (tenth to eighth, 6+), format foe – iHeartMedia’s KYRV “93.7 – The River City’s New Classic Rock” – halts three straight dips that produced a -1.1 (4.8 – 4.5 – 3.8 – 3.7, 6+). Ups/down continue for Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLVB, which fluctuates by at least one-half share for the fourth consecutive sweep. “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” was -.5 in August; +.5 in September; +.5 in October; and now -.8 in November (1.9 – 1.4 – 1.9 – 2.4 – 1.6, 6+), drifting from #15 to #20. A loss of six-tenths by Entercom CHR KUDL (4.2 – 3.6, seventh to tenth, 6 +) takes “106.5 The End” to its lowest 6+-share since May’s 3.5.
6) Salt Lake City – Ultra-consistent since June (3.4 – 3.4 – 3.6 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KNRS “Talk Radio 105.9 – Listen And You’ll Know” matches May’s 4.3 by exploding with a gain of eight-tenths and jumps from tenth to eighth. At t
he same time, Bonneville’s similarly-formatted news/talk KSL spirals from 8.3 to 6.5 (6+), moving to the runner-up slot after a one-month stay on top. In addition, “NewsRadio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” ends 
three successive gains netting a cumulative +3.1 (5.2 – 5.8 – 6.9 – 8.3, 6+); 8.3 was its strongest 6+-share since January’s 8.9. Recent KSL fluctuations include +2.0 (October 2016), -.9 (November), +1.1 (December), -1.5 (“Holiday” 2016); +2.1 (January 2017); -2.1 (February); +.6 (April); -1.1 (May); -.9 (July); +.6 (August); +1.1 (September); +1.4 (October); and now -1.8 (November). Replacing KSL at #1 is co-owned KSFI, the station KSL dislodged from the top spot in October after “FM 100.3 – Better Music Better Work Day” spent four consecutive months there. KSFI, however, is a combined -.8 in October and November (7.8 – 7.3 – 7.0, 6+). After four straight downward moves that resulted in the loss of three full-shares (5.7 – 5.2 – 3.5 – 3.1 – 2.7, 6+), Broadway Media CHR KUDD “Mix 105.1 – All the Hits” bounces back with a gain of seven-tenths to 3.4 (#16 to #13, 6+). “Mix” was a combined +1.5 in March and April; -.9 in May; and +1.6 in June to 5.7, the highest 6+-stat in its PPM-history. In three straight monthlies without a loss, format competitor – iHeartMedia-owned KZHT – was a combined +1.5 (5.0 – 5.0 – 5.3 – 6.5, June through September, 6+), but “97.1 ZHT – Salt Lake’s #1 Hit Music Station” forfeits -1.1 in October and November (6.5 – 6.0 – 5.4, third to fourth, 6+); September 2017’s 6.5 was its strongest 6+-stat since 6.6 in September 2016. This represents the 12th sweep in succession that co-owned KAAZ “Rock 106.7 – Everything That Rocks” is within 3.1 – 3.9 range (3.2 – 3.8, +.6, #12 to #11, 6+). Advancing from fourth to third, classic hits-oldies sibling KODJ “94.1 Salt Lake’s Greatest Hits” is 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+) and has its highest 6+-share since June 2016’s 6.6. The (6+) August – September – October topline for Bonneville’s KRSP is 5.1 – 5.0 – 5.1, but “103.5 The Arrow – Utah’s Classic Rock” regresses by nine-tenths to 4.2 (6+), its lowest 6+-share since 3.7 in “Holiday” 2015, and shifts from sixth to ninth. Steady at #19, Broadway Media rhythmic CHR KUUU “U-92” is within 2.0 – 2.8 range for the 18th consecutive sweep (2.0 – 2.1, +.1, 6+). Co-owned KEGA “101.5 The Eagle – Utah’s Best Country” is without an increase for the sixth straight time for a collective -.6 (2.0 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.5 – 1.5 – 1.4, 6+). Conversely, 1980s hits KSQN “103.1 The Wave – The Next Wave of New Wave” is up or flat for the sixth time in a row for a +.4 (.9 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.0 – 1.3 – 1.3, #24, 6+), while sports talk KALL “ESPN 700” has quintupled its 6+-share in five successive gains (.3 – .4 – .5 – .9 – 1.3 – 1.5, #21, 6+). For the sixth consecutive ratings period, independent KSOP-AM “AM 1370 – Utah’s Home for Classic Country” dials up a .8 (#27, 6+).
7) Las Vegas – The last four ratings periods have been rough for iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, which is a collective -2.7 since June (7.5 – 6.7 – 6.3 – 5.6 – 4.8, 6+). Things turn the corner in November though as, in one fell swoop, “Sunny 106.5” recaptures all but six-tenths of that deficit (6.9, +2.1, 6+) and cruises from fourth to second. In
fact, its +2.1 is the largest (6+) October 2017 – November 2017 increase by any station in the 36 PPM-markets we’ve analyzed thus far. 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; and now +2.1 in November. Whereas “Sunny” trailed pacesetter KKLZ “96.3 – 70s, 80s and More” by 3.1 shares (6+) in October, the margin has been whittled to 
just one-tenth as Beasley Media Group-owned KKLZ slumps by nine-tenths (7.9 – 7.0, 6+). Even so, it posts its fifth straight month on top; it was up one full-share in October. Things are extremely congested among the top three finishers, given that “Sunny” only has a two-tenths advantage over CBS Radio hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1,” which logs its fifth successive improvement for a net gain of +2.1 (4.6 – 4.7 – 5.3 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.7, 6+) and is #3 for the third month in a row. In October, “Mix” reached the six-share level (6+) for the first time since December 2015’s 6.1. Winning ways continue as well for iHeartMedia adult hits KYMT. In five straight sweeps without a loss, “93.1 The Mountain – We Play Everything” is +1.6 (2.1 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 3.1 – 3.7, 6+) and enters the top ten (#13 to #10) with its best 6+-showing since it flipped from CHR (KPLV) in September 2016. Flat at #19, CBS Radio’s KXNT is off one
-tenth to 2.0 (6+), halting at three its successive string of increases that netted seven-tenths (1.4 – 1.5 – 1.9 – 2.1, 6+). While 18% of the 34 stations that appear in Las Vegas’ November 2017 report are sports/talk, the format only draws an inclusive 2.1 shares (6+, November 2017), down one-tenth from October 2017. Roughly half of that total is derived from Lotus Communications-owned KWWN “ESPN Radio 1100” (1.2 – 1.1, -.1, #23, 6+). Its three sports talk siblings are KRLV (.5 – .4, -.1, #30, 6+); KBAD “920 The Game” (flat at .3, #31, 6+); and Spanish sports talk KENO “1460 ESPN Deportes” (flat at .2, #32, 6+). Tied at #33 are CBS Radio’s KXST “CBS Sports Radio 1140” (flat at .1, 6+) and Kemp Broadcasting’s KMZQ “670 The Score” (0.0 – .1, +.1, 6+).
8) Cincinnati – Over and above being the fourth sweep in succession that Hubbard’s WUBE is without a decrease for a +.6 (7.6 – 7.6 – 7.8 – 8.1 – 8.2, 6+), “B-105.1 – Get Your Country On” progresses from third to second with its highest 6+-
share since October 2016’s 8.5. Flat at #20, co-owned WYGY “97.3 The Wolf” is up one-tenth to 1.1 (6+), pulling the plug on 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 format, Cumulus Media’s WNNF “94.1 Nash FM” (#16 to #17) has its fourth downward or flat move in succession for a collective -1.1 (2.9 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.2 – 1.8, 6+). Meanwhile, adult contemporary sibling WRRM “Warm 98” posts its third improvement in a row for a cumulative +.7 (3.9 – 4.0 – 4.5 – 4.6, 6+) and climbs from eighth to seventh. Powered by a gain of seven-tenths (4.1 – 4.8, 6+), iHeartMedia mainstream CHR WKFS “Kiss 107.1 – Cincinnati’s #1 Hit Music Station” registers its strongest 6+-share since December’s 5.4 and rockets into the top ten (#11 to #6). Down or flat in the last three sweeps for an overall loss of seven-tenths (2.1 – 1.9 – 1.4 – 1.4, 6+), Cincinnati Public Radio’s classical WGUC “90.9 – Music For Your Heart, Mind, and Spirit” urns around with a one-half share improvement to 1.9 (#18 to #16, 6+). A combined -1.4 in August and September (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.3, 6+), Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR not only recaptures just over half that loss in October and November (a combined +.8), “103.5 Cincinnati’s Greatest Hits” marches from second to first (8.3 – 9.0 – 9.1, 6+). Exiting the lead spot after three consecutive months there
and shifting to #3 is iHeartMedia news/talk WLW, which is down for the third straight time for a collective -1.6 (9.6 – 9.4 – 9.2 – 8.0, 6+). “The Big One” returned to the top in August 2017 after back-to-back appearances at #2. Unchanged at #9, co-owned and similarly-formatted WKRC “55 KRC – THE Talk Station in Cincinnati” hasn’t had a loss in each of the past four sweeps and is up nine-tenths since July (3.3 – 3.6 – 3.6 – 4.2 – 4.2, 6+). 
In a case of slow and steady, sports talk cluster-mate WSAI “Fox Sports 1360” improves by one-tenth for the fourth time in a row (.3 – 4. – .5 – .6 – .7, #23, 6+). Owing to a decrease of seven-tenths (4.8 – 4.1, 6+), Radio One urban contemporary WIZF notches its softest 6+-share since 4.0 in April, as “101.1 The Wiz” segues from sixth to tenth. While remaining at #15, urban-rhythmic oldies sibling WDBZ “Soul 101.5” slips by one-tenth to 2.3 (6+), halting five consecutive sweeps without a loss that produced one full-share (1.4 -1.7 – 1.7 – 1.9 – 2.1 – 2.4, 6+). Frozen on 3.4 (6+) in September and October, Cumulus Media’s WFTK “96 Rock” falters by one-half share to 2.9 (matching May’s 6+-stat) as it slides from #12 to #13.
9) Orlando – Having logged a steady August – September – October topline of 3.2 – 3.3 – 3.1 (6+), Cox Media Group rhythmic CHR WPYO “Power 95.3” surges by seven-tenths to 3.8 (6+), moving from #13 to #11. A gain of six-tenths to 5.5 (6+) takes CBS Radio hot AC WOMX (ninth to fifth) to 5.5, its best 6+-showing since April (5.5, as well). In three of
the last six sweeps (May through October), “Mix 105.1” notched a 5.4 (6+). Not only does WMFE tack on six tenths to October’s +.8 (2.9 – 3.7 – 4.3, 6+), the Community Communications news/talk facility enters the top ten (#11 to #9). Prior to reaching 3.0 (6+) in August, WMFE had been within 2.0 – 2.9 range for 34 consecutive ratings periods. It overtakes 
Cox Media Group news/talk WDBO-FM, which is a collective -1.9 in back-to-back sweeps (6.1 – 5.1 – 4.2, September-October-November, sixth to tenth, 6+), thus surrendering all but one-tenth of September’s +2.0. That whopping +2.0 was the largest 6+ August 2017 – September 2017 increase by any station in the 48 PPM-markets. While up nine-tenths in August, WDBO-FM was -1.0 via three straight negative trends immediately prior to that (4.2 – 3.8 – 3.6 – 3.2, 6+). Unchanged at #14, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKS “Real Radio 104.1 – We Say What We Want” is a collective +1.4 in three straight up or flat trends (1.5 – 2.6 – 2.9 – 2.9,
6+), following six consecutive decreases that accounted for a -2.1 (3.6 – 3.3 – 2.9 – 2.2 – 2.0 – 1.8 – 1.5, 6+). Even though co-owned Spanish tropical WRUM is down by one-tenth in both October and November (11.6 – 11.5 – 11.4, 6+), “Rumba 100” is #1 for the 11th consecutive month. 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 its PPM-history. Climbing from third to second, CHR sibling WXXL “XL-106.7” is up or flat for the third time in a row (7.5 – 7.5 – 7.9 – 8.2, 6+) and has its best 6+-stat since May’s 8.8. In October, “XL-106.7” halted 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+). Still in that iHeartMedia cluster, adult contemporary WMGF freefalls by -1.3 from 8.9 to 7.6, its lowest 6+-share since 6.9 in May as “Magic 107.7” shifts from second to fourth. This is the third consecutive dip for CBS Radio classic hits-oldies WOCL “105.9 Sunny FM,” which is a cumulative -1.5 since August (6.8 – 6.4 – 5.9 – 5.3, fifth to sixth, 6+). Co-owned WQMP is -1.2 in three losses in a row (4.3 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 3.1, 6+), falling from #12 to #13. Three weeks after the November sweep ended (11/29), WQMP transitioned from CHR “Amp” to “Alt 101.9 – Orlando’s New Alternative.”
10) Cleveland – Fueled by a +1.2 (6.4 – 7.6, 6+), iHeartMedia-owned WGAR “99.5 – Cleveland’s #1 For New Country” records its strongest 6+-performance in nearly a year (7.9, 6+, December 2016) and jumps from sixth to third. Co-
owned adult hits WHLK “106.5 The Lake – We Play Anything” (7.4, steady at #5, 6+) and Radio One urban contemporary WENZ “Z-107.9” (6.3 – 7.2, seventh to sixth, 6+) each improve by nine-tenths, with WENZ crossing the seven-share (6+) for the first time in its PPM-history. Entering the November sweep, “The Lake” was -1.2 in three consecutive declines (7.7 – 7.6 – 6.6 – 6.5, 6+). 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. Not only does iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI register a gain of eight-tenths to 8.7 (6+) to curtail three straight declines that resulted in a -1.3 (9.2 – 8.9 – 8.4 – 7.9, 6+), “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” marches from third to first. So far this calendar year, “Cleveland’s Greatest Hits” has 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 now in November. Displaced from the penthouse and drifting to seventh is news/talk cluster
-mate WTAM, which suffers the highest (6+) October 2017 – November 2017 erosion of any station in the 36 PPM-markets we have seen thus far (8.5 – 5.4, -3.1, 6+). In October, the Cleveland Indians flagship had its strongest 6+-stat (8.5) since November’s 9.1. It was a combined +1.9 in September and October (6.6 – 7.9 – 8.5), after being off by seven-tenths in July and August (7.3 – 6.7 – 6.6, 6+). Regarding the aforementioned WZAK, the Radio One urban AC carries on at #2 and, with a one-half share increase, is in eight-share range for the fourth sweep in a row (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+). Plummeting by one full-share each are iHeartMedia-owned WMMS “100.7 – Cleveland’s Rock Station” (5.0 – 4.0, #10 to #11, 6+) and Radio One gospel WJMO “Praise 1300” (#14 to #17), which returns in its entirety October’s +1.0. That one-share October increase enabled “Praise 1300” to more than quintuple its 6+-share since August (.3 – .6 – 1.6, 6+). Up a collective +1.5 through four straight gains (2.7 – 2.8 – 3.0 – 3.7 – 4.2, 6+), CBS Radio sports talk WKRK “92.3 The Fan” – the FM flagship of the Cleveland Browns – declines by two-tenths to 4.0 (6+), but improves from #12 to a tie at #11 with WMMS. Flat at #8, WKRK’s hot AC sibling WQAL “Q-104 Plays The Hits” is an overall -1.8 through four negative trends in a row (7.0 – 6.4 – 6.2 – 5.3 – 5.2, 6+).
11) Kansas City – Over and above making a positive spike of eight-tenths to 8.8, its highest 6+-showing since June’s 8.9), Cumulus Media-owned classic hits-oldies outlet KCMO “94.9 – Kansas City’s Greatest Hits” advances from second to first. It succeeds classic rock sibling KCFX “The Fox, which segues to #2 after ten consecutive months on top.
This is the fourth straight sweep that “The Fox” is down or flat for a -1.9 (10.3 – 8.7 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.4, 6+). A -1.6 in August halted five straight increases that accounted for a cumulative +2.8 (7.5 – 8.5 – 8.7 – 9.4 – 10.3, 6+). When “The Fox” reached 10.3 in July, it marked only the fifth time a Kansas City station registered double-digits (6+) in the PPM era. A gain of seven-tenths to 5.5 (fifth to fourth, 6+) by Steel City Media CHR KMXV “Mix 93.3 – Kansas City’s #1 Hit Music Station” pulls the plug on four losses in a row that accounted for a -1.0 (5.8 – 5.7 – 5.2 – 4.9 – 4.8, 6+). Its format rival – Cumulus Media’s KCHZ – is up one-tenth to 3.9 (#13 to #11, 6+) as “95.7 The Vibe – All The Hits” ends three straight downward moves for a loss of eight-tenths (4.6 – 4.5 – 4.0 – 3.8, 6+). In addition to “Mix 93.3,” University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KJNW “Life 88.5 – Kansas City Christian Radio,” which had been in two-share range (6+) in each of the last ten ratings periods, improves by seven-tenths as well (2.4 – 3.1, #17 to #15, 6+). Although unchanged at #7, Entercom’s KQRC “98.9 The Rock” is a collective +1.1 in three straight increases (3.9 – 4.1 – 4.4 – 5.0, 6+) and posts its best 6+-share (5.0) in more than two years (5.1, October 2015). Having trended 4.8 – 5.1 – 4.8 (August – September – October, 6+), Carter Broadcast Corporation urban contemporary KPRS hangs out a one-half share increase to 5.3 (6+) and “Hot 103 Jamz” carries on at #5. Immediately after five consecutive up or flat trends in which it nearly quadrupled its 6+-share with a +3.2 (1.2 – 2.7 – 2.7 – 3.1 – 3.7 – 4.4, 6+), Entercom’s KCSP “610 Sports Radio – Our Teams, Our Town” is a collective -2.3 in three straight decreases (4.4 – 3.8 – 3.4 – 2.1, 6+). The Kansas City Royals flagship fades from #15 to #19; 
August’s 4.4 was its highest 6+-share since June 2016’s 4.7. Conversely, Union Broadcasting’s WHB “Sports Radio 810” (steady at #16) doubles its 6+-stat in five successive positive trends (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+) and has its strongest 6+-showing (3.0) since March (3.6). This is the seventh month in a row at #3 for Steel City Media’s KFKF, but it is a combined -.8 in October and November (6.9 – 6.6 – 6.1, 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+). Locked on 4.4 (6+) in September and October, Entercom’s similarly-formatted WDAF “106.5 The Wolf” picks up one-tenth to 4.5 yet backslides from seventh to eighth. August’s 4.8 is its highest 6+-share since 4.9 in April 2015. All three Kansas City country FMs are in the top ten as KFKF cluster-mate KBEQ “Q-104 #1 for New Country” is up a combined eight-tenths in three upticks in a row (3.4 – 3.8 – 4.0 – 4.2, 6+) and remains at #10. September’s +.4 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+). Up or flat three times in a row for a gain of six-tenths (1.8 – 1.9 – 1.9 – 2.4, 6+), Entercom news/talk KMBZ-AM drops two-tenths in November to 2.2 (#17 to #18, 6+); October’s 2.4 was its strongest 6+-stat since March (2.5).
12) Columbus – Within 2.0 – 2.9 territory (6+) in each of the last ten ratings periods, Saga Communications’ WNND not only explodes with a mammoth +1.6 (2.0 – 3.6, 6+), “Rewind – Columbus’ Greatest Hits” surges into the top ten (#14 
to #9). Making a huge (6+-share) move as well is co-owned WLVQ “Iconic Rock Q-FM 96,” which is a combined +1.7 in October and November (5.8 – 6.3 – 7.5, fourth to third). This time last month, it ended a mini-slide that resulted in a -1.7 in August and September (7.5 – 6.1 – 5.8, 6+). Meanwhile, hot AC sibling WVMX “Mix 107.9,” which netted one-half share in four up or flat trends in succession (2.5 – 2.7 – 2.9 – 2.9 – 3.0, 6+), is off two-tenths to 2.8 (#11 to #13, 6+). Trending a consistent 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.4 – 2.5 – 2.3 (6+) since June, One Connection Media Group contemporary Christian WCVO dials up an increase of eight-tenths to 3.1, its best 6+-showing since 3.9 in May, but “Uplifting & Encouraging 104.9 The River” remains at #12. Improving by one-half share each are iHeartMedia news/talk WTVN “NewsRadio 610” (fifth to fourth, 6+) and Ohio State
University’s WOSA “Classical 101” (#17 to #16, 6+). WTVN is +.8 in three straight up-trends (5.7 – 5.9 – 6.0 – 6.5, 6+), while WOSA is +.6 in three straight up or flat moves (.4 – .4 – .5 – 1.0, 6+). Off a combined -1.5 in August and September, iHeartMedia country outlet WCOL regained roughly half of that loss in October with a +.7 (11.2 – 11.9). Although off one-tenth in November to 11.8 (6+), WCOL is #1 for the fifth straight time. 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; and +.7 in October. Its CHR and adult hits cluster-mates WNCI “97.9 – Columbus’ Hit Music Station and #1 for New Music” (flat at #2) and WODC “93.3 The Bus” (5.4, third to fifth, 6+), however, are off by -1.2 and -1.0, respectively. Without an increase for the third ratings period in a row (10.8 – 10.8 – 10.7 – 9.5, 6+), WNCI has its lowest 6+-share (9.5) since 9.4 in April. 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+). October’s 6.4 was the highest 6+-share for “The 
Bus” since “Holiday” 2016’s 11.1. Faltering by three-tenths to 5.0 (6+), Radiohio-owned WBNS-FM “Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan” halts three straight gains that produced a +3.4 (1.9 – 2.8 – 4.0 – 5.3, 6+) and slips from sixth to seventh. The 5.3 by “The Fan” in October was its best 6+-performance since 5.9 in the “Holiday” 2016 report. In addition to registering its fourth straight negative trend for a combined -1.2 since July (4.4 – 4.0 – 3.8 – 3.3 – 3.2, 6+), Radio One rhythmic CHR WCKX “Power 107.5” departs the top ten (#10 to #11), while co-owned urban AC WXMG “Magic 95.5 – Columbus’ Best R&B” is without an increase for the sixth time in a row for a collective -.5 (2.8 – 2.8 – 2.8 – 2.5 – 2.5 – 2.3 – 2.3, #12 to #14, 6+).
Monday, January 16, 2017
Report: Laura Ingraham Considering Run for Virginia Senate Seat. According to a report in the Washington Examiner, talk show host – and Trump adviser – Laura Ingraham is seriously debating whether to throw her hat into the ring for a run for the Virginia U.S. Senate seat currently held by Hillary Clinton’s 2016
running mate, Tim Kaine. The Examiner’s Paul Bedard writes that “several party insiders have approached the media giant to run and that she is considering it. In preparation for a bid, her business partner, Peter Anthony, has begun buying website domains for Ingraham to use should she decide to move forward. It includes: ingrahamsenate.net, ingrahamsenate.com, ingrahamforvirginia.com and ingraham2018.com.” The story also notes that Virginia U.S. Representatives Barbara Comstock and Dave Brat – both Republicans – are considering challenging Kaine. See the Examiner story here.
iHeartMedia Execs Nab Big Bonuses. These bonuses – approved last Tuesday by the iHeartMedia board of directors – are retention bonuses. Here’s what the board approved: chairman and CEO Bob Pittman gets $1.75
million; COO and CFO Rich Bressler gets the same; and SVP of corporate finance Steven Macri is awarded $750,000. Because they are retention bonuses, the three must remain employed by the 
company for two years after the effective date of January 12, 2017 or they must repay 100% of the after-tax value of the bonus. If either is terminated without cause, leaves for a “good reason,” or due to death or disability before the first anniversary of the effective date, they must pay back 50% of the after-tax value. Additionally, the board of directors approved the 2017 Key Employee Incentive Plan in which Pittman and Bressler can earn bonuses of up to $7,000,000 and $3,000,000 respectively during the year for hitting quarterly performance goals set by the compensation committee of the board of directors.
Cumulus Media’s Mary Berner Pockets $1 Million-plus Bonus. Unlike the retention bonuses paid to iHeartMedia’s Bob Pittman and others (see story above), this payment to Cumulus Media president and CEO
Mary Berner is a “one-time discretionary cash incentive compensation award” of $1,087,500 for “her exceptional efforts and contributions during 2016, both individually and as a member of the management leadership team, in the initial phase of the company’s operational turnaround plan and ongoing operational and financial restructuring.” The board of directors notes that this award is in lieu of any award she may have received under its annual incentive plan for 2016.
Charlie Sykes to Take Part in Public Radio Show. The Milwaukee radio icon retired from E.W. Scripps’ WTMJ at the end of 2016 after a 23-year career with the news/talk station. Now, Charlie Sykes is part of a new, national call-in talk show being produced in what is a cooperative venture by WNYC, New York, Minnesota Public 
Radio and The Economist. According to a story in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Sykes will be one of four co-hosts of the program titled, “Indivisible.” The other hosts are: WNYC’s Brian Lehrer, The Nation features editor Kai Wright, and MPR’s personality Kerri Miller. Sykes will not be heard on the radio in his home market because his non-compete prevents local pubcaster WUWM from airing the show. Under the terms of Sykes’ deal with WTMJ, any radio show on which Sykes appears during the term of the non-compete must air on WTMJ. The station asked to air the new show but NPR is not giving consent.
Will Talk Show Hosts Get Access to Trump Press Conferences? On Sunday (1/15), Trump Administration Press Secretary Sean Spicer told FOX News that the president-elect is considering moving press briefings to a larger location due to “off-the-charts” interest in the new administration. Spicer said, “There’s a lot of talk radio and bloggers and people that can’t fit in right now and maybe don’t have a permanency because they’re not part of the Washington elite media, but to allow them an opportunity to ask the press secretary or the president a question is a positive thing. It’s more democratic.” The Brady press room (pictured) in the West Wing only holds 49 people. However, the White House Correspondents’ Association is concerned about the move, in part because it fears the media could be moved from the press work space behind the Brady press room, according to a statement from WHCA president Jeff Mason. He says that space is important because it is close to West Wing staffers whom the press rely on for news. Spicer says he’ll work with the WHCA on any changes.
Trump Inauguration Protests, ObamaCare Replacement Plans, U.S.-Russia Relations, Orlando Cop Killer Search, Davos Economic Forum, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Ringling Brothers Circus to Close, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The planned protests and Democratic members of Congress planning to skip Donald Trump’s Inauguration on Friday; the GOP’s plans to replace the Affordable Care Act; the relationship between Vladimir Putin’s Russia and the United States with Trump set to take office; the search for the man police believe killed Orlando police officer Debra Clayton; this week’s meeting of world leaders at the World Economic Forum at Davos, Switzerland; today’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday; Ringling Brothers’ decision to shutter the 146-year-old circus; and the NFL playoff games were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend.
Odds & Sods. Nationally syndicated “Free Talk Live” with Ian Freeman and Mark Edge adds new affiliates to
its roster, including: WNIX-AM/FM, Greeneville, Mississippi; KLKS-FM, Brainerd, Minnesota; KHMO-AM, Hannibal, Missouri; and WBNW, Concord/Boston…..Teenage conservative talk show host Caiden Cowger announces his show is added to the program schedule at Kol Ami Havurah-owned WDUQ-LPFM, Benwood, West Virginia “Beautiful Music 99.1.” This is the fourth affiliate station for Cowger’s program. The one-hour show airs evenings at 9:00 pm…..In the San Antonio market, Cox Media Group drops the sports talk programming on KONO-AM after three years as a CBS Sports Radio affiliate and is now airing an oldies format.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In San Diego, air personality Sam Bass moves from middays to weekends on hot AC KYXY for personal reasons. Moving into his slot on the CBS RADIO station is Joe Rosati, who slides over from sister CHR KEGY “Energy 103.7.” Program director Chris Patyk promotes evening personality Alexia Gloria to middays on KEGY to fill Rosati’s old slot…..There are a few promotions to report at the Nashville operations of Midwest Communications. First, Barbara Bridges – currently adult contemporary WJXA brand manager – is upped to operations manager for the entire cluster. Second, afternoon drive host Joe Breezy is adding brand manager duties to his work at CHR WNFN “i106.7.” Finally, WNFN midday personality Butter Harper takes on assistant brand manager responsibilities for the station…..Chad Valentine exits iHeartMedia’s CHR WHYI, Miami “Y100” as the result of his position being eliminated. He was assistant program director and music director there…..Alexa Smith exits her role as program director at Sierra H Broadcasting’s hip hop KNRJ, Cordes Lakes, Arizona and rhythmic oldies KAJM, Camp Verde, Arizona after three months in the position. Prior to that, she’d been APD at CBS RADIO’s rhythmic AC KTWV, Los Angeles “94.7 The Wave.”
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
National Radio Hall of Fame Voting Starts Today. After a five-year hiatus, listeners again have the opportunity to participate in selecting National Radio Hall of Fame inductees. For the next two weeks (through Wednesday, 8/26), voters can text 36500 with their one vote for the four nominees (each) in the “Music Format On-Air Personality” and “Spoken Word On-Air Personality” categories. National Radio Hall of Fame chair Kraig Kitchin declares, “These eight personalities are beloved by their listeners. Giving the audience an opportunity to participate in the process of acknowledging their favorite hosts for their contributions over the years just makes sense.” Nominees and text info for the “Music Format On-Air Personality” are Delilah (text “DELILAH” to 36500); Elvis Duran (text “ELVIS” to 36500); Steve Harvey (text “STEVE” to 36500); and Ryan Seacrest (text “RYAN” to 36500). Nominees and text info for the “Spoken Word On-Air Personality” are Sean Hannity (text “HANNITY” to 36500); Clark Howard (text “CLARK” to 36500); Jim Rome (text “ROME” to 36500); and Dr. Laura Schlessinger (text “DR. LAURA” to 36500). Listener-chosen winners will be announced at the end of this month (8/31), and we cannot forget that all-important fine print that “message and data rates may apply.” In addition to the two listener-voting categories, four categories are being voted on by a panel of 400 industry professionals. The induction ceremony takes place November 5 at the Museum of Broadcast and Communications in downtown Chicago.
IAB Gears Up For Debut Podcast Upfront Showcase. The one-day marketplace for advertisers and media buyers to preview podcast programming will be held next month (9/10) in New York City. Scheduled to present at Interactive Advertising Bureau‘s inaugural podcast upfront showcase include representatives from AdLarge Media, Midroll, NPR, Panoply, Podtrac, and WNYC. Industry Initiatives, IAB vice president Carl Kalapesi explains, “More and more advertisers are incorporating audio programming into their digital marketing strategies. The individual and intimate listening experience enjoyed by podcast listeners provides a unique vehicle for brands to connect with consumers. IAB is excited to bring so many digital audio leaders together to discuss their upcoming programming and the wide array of advertising opportunities available through podcasts.” Invited executives will get to preview content developments from each presenting company in 20-minute segments.
Cassell (Posthumously) Wins SCBA Radio Personality of the Year Award. The “State Television And Radio” (STAR) awards of the South Carolina Broadcasting Association honor “exceptional accomplishments of the state’s stations and their broadcast professionals.” Entercom-owned talk WYRD-FM, Greenville-Spartanburg host Russ Cassell (left), who passed away last year, won the “Radio Personality of the Year” award. Entercom market vice president and general
manager Steve Sinicropi declares, “The broadcasting legacy of Russ Cassell lives on; our entire team is grateful for the SCBA recognizing Russ with this important award.” The cluster’s production director Stan Fisher received STAR recognition for best production-multi spot campaign on rock WTPT “93.3 The Planet” for local attorney Rob Ianuario. In the station’s first year in the format, WYRD-AM “ESPN Upstate” sports broadcaster Greg McKinney was recognized with a “Sportscaster of the Year award of merit at the event, which was held in Columbia, South Carolina over the weekend.
McCollim Heads to Colorado Springs as iHeartMedia’s Senior VP/Programming. Transferring from Spokane where he programmed iHeartMedia talker KQNT and KKZX “The Classic Rock Station,” Jason McCollim is appointed senior vice president of programming for the company’s Colorado Springs and Pueblo stations. Senior vice president of programming/regional markets Tony Coles states, “McCollim is one of our rising stars. He has done an incredible job for us 
in Spokane. His leadership skills and passion for programming will allow him to ramp up quickly and build immediate relationships with the programming and sales teams.” Colorado-Pueblo market president Darci Ewell comments, “Jason’s proven track record in Spokane and his versatile experience will make him an incredible asset to the Colorado Springs-Pueblo cluster. Jason brings a high level of energy and creativity that will greatly benefit our team.” McCollim remarks, “I am very excited about working with the fantastic iHeartMedia team in both Colorado Springs and Pueblo; thanks to Tony Coles and Darci Ewell for the opportunity to work in one of the most beautiful parts of our country.” McCollim spent more than 14 years at KQNT and KKZX; he is vice president of the Inland Empire Bloodhounds Search & Rescue. The Colorado Springs stations he will oversee are rhythmic CHR KIBT “The Beat”; hot AC KVUU “My-99.9”; adult contemporary KKLI “Sunny 106.3”; country KCCY “Y-96.9; and classic rock KDZA “Z-107.9.” The three Pueblo facilities are classic hits KPHT; KCCY “Fox Sports 1350″; and talk KCSJ.
Rdio Debuts Live Broadcast Radio. The global music streaming service begins with nearly 500 U.S. stations. Listeners can mark songs they like as a favorite, share the song, start a custom station based on the song or view more music by the artist. Paying subscribers to Rdio’s $3.99 and $9.99 plans can download songs for unlimited listening, add it to a custom playlist, listen to related songs from that artist or recently played songs on that station as often as they want. Rdio chief executive officer Anthony Bay comments, “We are committed to providing Rdio customers around the world with easy access to the audio content they want to hear through innovative features that enhance listening. Broadcast radio brands and talent continue to be the dominant tastemakers in music, so integrating live broadcast radio into Rdio’s critically acclaimed customer experience is an exciting development that we are thrilled to introduce.” Through a September 2013 partnership with Cumulus Media, Rdio has access to Cumulus’ programming and is promoted on Cumulus stations. Cumulus Media chief executive officer Lew Dickey states, “Bringing our national platform of stations to Rdio allows us to instantly create broader access for our listeners and new opportunities for advertisers to reach their target audiences. The combination of our premier broadcast assets with Rdio’s acclaimed user experience and music discovery features creates a full-service listening experience that is unparalleled.” In addition to music, live broadcast programming includes sports content from local stations as well as through Cumulus Media’s Westwood One. Featured stations include Cumulus Media-owned country WNSH, New York; rock KLOS, Los Angeles; triple-A KFOG, San Francisco; urban-rhythmic oldies WRWM, Indianapolis; and country WSM-FM, Nashville. Additional stations will launch later this year.
WOWO Producing 90-Year Retrospective. The Fort Wayne (Indiana) talk outlet is observing its 90th anniversary and – appropriately enough – is putting together a 90-minute documentary. Station executives are in the process of gathering interviews from former employees for the special, which will cover WOWO’s impact and reach. In addition to audio samples of historic and comical moments, Bob Sievers, Jack Underwood, Jay Gould, and Bob Chase are among those who will be featured. Program director Ryan Wrecker (Wrecker@WOWO.com) is seeking station memorabilia that can be displayed during the ongoing celebration, as well as memories past staffers or listeners would like to share. Those contributing will receive a preview edition of the special, which is scheduled to air on Federated Media-owned WOWO (Thursday) November 19.
KNX Schedules Second Annual Blood Drive. In light of the fact that blood donations typically dip during summer months, KNX, Los Angeles is joining the American Red Cross for the CBS Radio all-news outlet’s second annual blood drive. The five-day event at participating Red Cross blood centers starts two weeks from Saturday (8/29) and concludes the following Wednesday (9/2). CBS Radio vice president/Los Angeles market manager Dan Kearney 
comments, “KNX is proud to team up with the Red Cross once again as we expand our blood drive effort. We know summer is a challenging time for people to think about donating blood, and we hope to raise awareness so our listeners will lend their support and help the Red Cross maintain a safe and stable blood supply.” American Red Cross Southern California blood services external communications manager Tony Briggs notes that although many donors stepped up to give following a pressing call issued earlier this month, “The American Red Cross continues to have an urgent need for blood donors of all blood types to give before Labor Day.” Last year’s inaugural two-day KNX blood drive produced 834 pints of blood, which helped 2,502 patients. Greater Los Angeles/Southern California donation locations include Arcadia, Glendale, Santa Monica, Claremont, Downey, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Granada Hills, Los Angeles, Laguna Hills, Long Beach, Pasadena, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, Santa Ana, Santa Clarita, Thousand Oaks, Torrance, West Covina, Woodland Hills, and Yorba Linda. As an incentive (and while supplies last), blood drive sponsor – The Southern California Gas Company – will give blood donors a KNX emergency preparedness guide; two tickets to Hollywood’s Laugh Factory; a ticket to Madame Tussauds Hollywood; and a sample of Hawaiian Host chocolates.
Maranville Departs USA Radio Networks. One-year USA Radio Networks chief content officer-director of channel development Tim Maranville exits. He expresses thanks to “everyone at USA for all the hard work, especially show hosts Steve Deace, Kevin Jackson, Steve Noble, Jim Sharpe, Joe Messina, Chris and Emilee, Angie Austin, and Tony Perkins. The future is bright and I hope to have one, maybe two, announcements about my next contribution to the planet by mid-September.” Maranville joined USA after a nearly six-year run as vice president of programming at Westwood One. He previously was vice president and director of operations of the Denver Radio Company; vice president and director of operations of Sun City Communications; director of operations at KFRC, San Francisco; and director of operations of Phoenix stations KMLE, KOOL, and KZON. In addition, he owns/operates Mutations Media and he co-owns The Show Must Go On, an independent syndication consulting and affiliation company.
Donald Trump Continued to be the Second Most Talked About Person on News/Talk Radio Yesterday — a VERY close second to Barack Obama (8/11). Top topics include the Presidential Race, the Iran Nukes Deal, Immigration Reform and the Chinese Economy. According to TALKERS research, fallout from last week’s audience record-breaking GOP debate on Fox News Channel continues to dominate conversation on news/talk radio across America and people (and the media) remain fixated on Donald Trump. Other hot topics include the presidential election in general, Hillary Clinton’s email controversy and the global economic impact of China’s devaluation of its currency.
Gifford: Radiodays Europe 2015 — Day Three
Special to TALKERS magazine
By Larry Gifford
Consultant/Talent Coach
MILAN — Milan, Italy may seem distant and irrelevant as you sit behind your desk in New York, Columbus, Atlanta, Houston, Santé Fe, Bakersfield, or wherever you are. But, the messages being delivered at Radiodays Europe 2015 could not be any closer to home or more relevant.
“What I find fascinating here is there is a lot of conversations about the future.” iHeartMedia’s VP of Talent Development Dennis Clark said. “I’m really thrilled with people engaged into the ‘what’s next?’ instead of more congratulatory and celebratory, you know the pat-on-the-back sort of radio conventions that we’ve seen in the past.”
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Los Angeles Regional Talk Seminar Set For Thursday. It is being described as “a new kind of industry gathering” — accessible, short and free (including breakfast and lunch) with a power-packed line up of speakers and agenda that could rival the largest of national conferences. Set for Thursday, October 20th between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm, the one-day event, being presented by TALKERS in association with the Los Angeles Press Club, promises to bring together a diverse variety of factions, formats and companies comprising the Southern California talk radio community and tackle a number of the hottest issues facing the industry today. Filled to capacity within two weeks of being announced, the event will feature 30 leading industry speakers including solo presentations by the legendary Larry King of CNN; Westwood One founder Norm Pattiz of Courtside Entertainment; Don Barrett of LARadio.com; consultant Holland Cooke of McVay/Cook Media; and a special guest appearance by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. The keynote speaker is KFI morning titan Bill Handel. Eight major Southern California talk radio station programmers will be on panels including Cliff Albert of KOGO, San Diego; Robin Bertolucci of KFI, Los Angeles; Skip Essick of KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno; Don Martin of KLAC, Los Angeles and Fox Sports Radio; John McMullen of Dessert Radio Group, Palm Springs; Jack Silver of KABC, Los Angeles; David Sniff of KFMB, San Diego; and Chuck Tyler of KRLA/KKLA, Los Angeles. Some of the radio personalities speaking will include Andy Dean of Premiere Networks; LaFern Cusack of SCBA and ESPN, Los Angeles; Charles Feldman of KNX, Los Angeles; Roger Hedgecock of KOGO, San Diego and Radio America; Tom Leykis of the New Normal; Stephanie Miller of KTLK, Los Angeles and Dial Global; Doug McIntyre of KABC, Los Angeles and Cumulus Media; Patt Morrison of KPCC-FM, Los Angeles and Southern California Public Radio; John Phillips of KABC, Los Angeles; Josefa Salinas of Hot 92.3 FM, Los Angeles and Doug Stephan of Stephan Multimedia. Rounding out the line-up of presenters and moderators are Jason Insalaco of KFI, Los Angeles; Bill Moran of Bill Moran and Associates; and Kevin Casey, Mike Kinosian and Michael Harrison of TALKERS. There will be displays of the latest remote broadcasting equipment by Comrex Corporation and the latest radios by C. Crane Company. Although the event has reached maximum registration capacity there will be ample opportunity for broadcasters around the country to see and hear much of the event’s activities in the form of stories, photos and videos at Talkers.com shortly after the event. For the complete LARTF agenda, click here.
Clear Channel’s iHeartRadio to Distribute WNYC, New York Programs. Hot on the heels of the launch of its new iHeartRadio, Clear Channel announces it will begin making three of the more popular public radio talk programs from WNYC, New York available to users of the mobile phone app. “WNYC News and Conversation” will feature “The Brian Lehrer Show,” “The Leonard Lopate Show” and the WNYC-Public Radio International production “The Takeaway.” New York Public Radio vice president and chief digital officer Thomas Hjelm says, “We are delighted that Clear Channel will offer a selection of programming from WNYC on iHeartRadio. We are committed to making our programming available to the widest possible audience. Given iHeartRadio’s affinity with talk radio fans, it is an effective platform to extend the reach of our programming among news/talk listeners across the country.”
Sean Hannity Announces Holiday Concert Series to Benefit Troops. Premiere Networks and Fox News Channel superstar Sean Hannity is hosting an exclusive four-city concert series to benefit the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund. “Sean Hannity’s Holiday Concert Salute to the Troops” includes three-time Grammy winner Michael W. Smith, Oliver North and John Ondrasik of the group Five for Fighting, and more. Concerts will take place at New York City’s famed Hammerstein Ballroom on November 27; Pittsburgh’s Byham Theater on December 2; Washington, D.C.’s Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill on December 3; and Atlanta’s Cobb Energy Centre on December 18. Hannity says, “At this time of year it is so important that we not only recognize the sacrifices the men and women of our Armed Forces make, but we also take time out to honor them and pay tribute to the freedoms we’ve been given through their service to our country. These concerts are a great avenue for us to be able to come together as families, enjoy the holiday season and celebrate our troops. I’m honored to have some extremely talented friends join me on stage for what is sure to be a series of very special nights honoring some very special people.” The concert series is being produced by Townsquare Media and benefits Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund which goes to the education of children of U.S. service members who have been killed or permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident.
Chicago Legend Steve Dahl Returns to Windy City Airwaves on WJJG. Since exiting CBS Radio’s WJMK-FM, Chicago, Steve Dahl has been producing podcasts available at his own dahl.com website. Now, the “Dahlcast” will be part of the lineup at WJJG, Chicago. WJJG general manager Matt Dubiel says, “Steve Dahl is a radio genius and I couldn’t be more pleased to be working with him and his team. This is a huge victory for Chicago radio listeners. These are Steve’s listeners. I’d be delighted if 1530 WJJG reacquaints Dahl fans with Steve and perhaps introduces new fans. That’s what radio is supposed to do! And if you like Steve on 1530, you’ll LOVE getting the Dahlcast Daily.” WJJG recently added Talk Radio Network’s Michael Savage and Mancow to its daily program schedule.
WBAL, Baltimore Midday Host Rom Smith Has Cancer. Ron Smith announced to his listeners today (10/17) that he went to the doctor after experiencing abdominal pain about two weeks ago and tests revealed a tumor on his pancreas. His doctor said the cancer has spread to his liver and lungs. When Smith asked his doctor if it was worth trying to fight, he replied that is was and he’s seen worse cases successfully treated. Smith will undergo chemotherapy and will remain on the air as long as he is able. The 69-year-old Smith has been at WBAL for more than a quarter century.
Cumulus Promotes Two. Stu Gorlick moves from his post as vice president of sales at the company’s Poughkeepsie-based Hudson Valley station group to VP/market manager for the Danbury market. Aaron Hyland leaves his position as VP/market manger at the company’s Fort Walton Beach, Florida to become vice president and market manager at the Hudson Valley station group.
