Archive for June, 2017
Friday, June 30, 2017
KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh’s Mike Pintek Announces Cancer Diagnosis. As reported by CBS Pittsburgh, KDKA-AM midday talk show host Mike Pintek on Thursday (6/29) informed his listeners that he’s been diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer. He said, “What I’m about to do is not easy. In fact, it’s probably one of the
hardest things I’ve ever had to do. In early May, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The stats are not great, but that’s the hand I was dealt and it is not operable. They thought it was going to be operable at first, but it is not operable…at this time.” Pintek went on to say that the cancer has spread to his liver and possibly to other areas of his body. He added that the doctors hope that chemotherapy will shrink the tumor enough to make it operable. “My focus is on trying to go through the therapies, to take the medicines, to follow the advice of what I consider to be the best doctors in the world at UPMC Hillman.” He’ll be missing some time on air as he undergoes treatment. He told his audience, “You are my family – my extended family.” Pintek is on his second tour with the station. He hosted a talk show on KDKA-AM from 1982-2005, and returned to the station in 2009.
Wells Fargo’s Ryvicker Addresses Entercom-CBS RADIO Merger. In a missive to investors, Wells Fargo analyst Marci Ryvicker offers her thoughts on the value of the Entercom–CBS RADIO merger. She concludes that for patient investors, the merger will bring rewards. She says that this will be good for current Entercom stock holders, 
“This transforms ETM into the industry leader, with one of the best balance sheets in radio and broadcast (<4x levered). You could also expect some upside potential via accretive M&A and shareholder returns late ’18/early’19.” What about CBS RADIO? She notes the station portfolio includes some respected, heritage brands but says, “CBS RADIO has great brands that have been mismanaged – thus there is real opportunity for growth in ratings and revenue. This should be good for Entercom and the industry, which has more or less lacked a leader for quite some time.” CBS people would probably take issue with that and note the company’s very competitive ratings and revenue quarter-after-quarter. But Ryvicker appears to be intimating that the stations should be performing better than they are. She goes on to say that ultimately this deal will be very good for the new Entercom’s cash flow. She’s also especially bullish about what CBS’ sports talk stations will bring to the company. Not only are many of them very successful sports talk outlets, but they come with rights to “about 50 pro teams” and “dozens of division one colleges.”
Successful ‘Hold Their Feet to the Fire’ Wraps. Thursday (6/29) was day two and the final day of Federation for American Immigration Reform’s “Hold Their Feet to the Fire” radio row in Washington, DC. This year’s event was the 11th annual and was attended by
62 talk radio hosts/teams – a record number of broadcasters for the radio row. The two-day event took place at the Phoenix Park Hotel and consisted of legislators and experts speaking with talk radio hosts about immigration reform issues. TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison attended the radio row, speaking with hosts on 27 radio talk shows. He says, “Interacting on air with that many hosts in a concentrated two-day period about a hot issue such as immigration reform really gives me an invaluable connection and experience with what’s happening in news/talk radio on a grass-roots level. This event showed me first-hand the vibrancy and diversity of the format.” Pictured above left is KXNT, Las Vegas morning drive personality Heidi Harris. At right is KFYI, Phoenix personality Terry Gilberg.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (6/30). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are the “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein); the special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan); and the “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon). Closing out the week today, (6/30) the “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo) has been be posted. Within the following weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
TALKERS News Notes. Taking over for Joey Hudson – who’s just agreed to take on the position of general manager for the Mike Gallagher show – at Salem Media Group’s Greenville, South Carolina operations is Val Carolin. He’s been working in radio in Atlanta for the past 20 years, most recently with Cumulus Atlanta. Salem SVP of broadcast operations Allen Power states, “Val’s deep experience in all levels of media (local and national, terrestrial and digital) positions him well to lead our growing Greenville cluster. This expertise combined with his excitement for the Upstate is a winning combination as our next general manager. We are also grateful that Joey
Hudson will continue as a local ambassador and talk show host for “‘94.5 The Answer.’”…..The nationally syndicated “Free Talk Live” program featuring Ian Freeman and Mark Edge announces new affiliate stations, including: KWTO-AM/FM, Springfield, Missouri; KINA-AM/FM, Salina, Kansas; and WMEL, Cocoa, Florida…..At Midwest Communications’ sports talk WNFL-AM/W270AJ in Green Bay, the “Outlaw Radio” program debuts next Saturday night (7/8) at 7:00 pm. A press release says that the show is the brainchild of Magic Matt Alan. It features regulars like radio legend Shadoe Stevens, entertainment manager Howard Lapides, Matt’s musician brother Marty, Hollywood producer Frank Hagan, Mark CG Boyer, and “Outlaw Radio” show producer (and widow of Morton Downey Jr.) Lori Downey Jr. Midwest Communications VP/programming Jeff McCarthy comments, “There’s nothing like it anywhere else on the radio. It’s true escape programming with an original brand.”
GOP Health Care Bill Top News/Talk Story for Week of June 26-30. The status of the GOP’s health care legislation was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing in the number one position on the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was legislation aimed at addressing illegal immigration. Coming in at #3 was the SCOTUS-approved portions of President Trump’s travel ban going into effect, followed by the controversy over Trump’s Twitter assault on MSNBC’s Mika Brzezinski at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
Talk Show Host/Podcaster Rusty Humphries Writes New Book About Political Debating for
Conservatives. Veteran talk show host, podcaster and media coach Rusty Humphries has written and published a new book being released today titled, 7 Ways to Win Political Debates with Your Liberal Family and Friends (Humphries Publishing, 2017). According to Humphries, “If you are tired of being in social situations and being ambushed by liberals who just won’t let it go, this book is for you.” He advises his readers “how to go to important family functions prepared for the onslaught of jabs, jokes, and insults based on your deeply held conservative political beliefs.” The Kindle version of the book is available today-only (6/30) for free. To receive a copy, click here. To arrange an interview with Humphries call 541-450-5708.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. KRBQ, San Francisco “Q102.1” midday personality Billy Vidal is adding music director duties to his responsibilities at the Entercom rhythmic oldies outlet.
OM and PD Elroy Smith says, “This decision was very easy for me because Billy is the epitome of a professional whose knowledge of our format is unparalleled. I am excited to continue to watch him grow.”…..In Orlando JVC Media–owned country station WOTW “103.1 The Wolf” announces the addition of MurphDawg & Jenn to the lineup as the morning drive show. JVC EVP Shane Reeve states, “The addition of MurphDawg & Jenn to ‘103.1 The Wolf’ is the latest step in the evolution and tremendous growth of ‘The Wolf.’ We are committed to country in the Orlando market and are here to stay.”…..iHeartMedia’s adult contemporary KQXT, San Antonio “Q101.9” brings Premiere Networks syndicated late night personality Delilah back to the station’s lineup, beginning July 3.
Thursday, June 29, 2017
‘Hold Their Feet to the Fire’ Day 1. Pictured above is KHTE, Little Rock “96.5 The Answer” afternoon drive host Dave Elswick (left) speaking with Bristol County, Massachusetts Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson (right) during the first day of broadcasts from the radio row at Federation for America Immigration Reform’s “Hold Their Feet to the Fire” event. This 10th edition of the Washington, DC radio row consists of a record 62 talk show hosts discussing U.S. immigration policy with legislators and experts on the issue.
WPHT’s Chris Stigall Hosts FNC’s Eric Bolling. WPHT, Philadelphia morning drive personality Chris Stigall (left) is pictured here on stage at the Zlock Performing Arts Center at Bucks County Community College outside of Philly last night (6/28) where he hosted Fox News Channel host and author Eric Bolling (right) before a sold-out crowd. Bolling is on tour promoting his new book The Swamp: Washington’s Murky Pool of Corruption and Cronyism and How Trump Can Drain It (St. Martin’s Press 2017). The event was recorded by “C-SPAN Book TV” and will be aired on C-SPAN at a later date.
Brendan Carr to Be Nominated for FCC Commissioner. It appears that sooner rather than later the FCC will
have a five-member board of commissioners. Following on the recent re-nomination of Democrat Jessica Rosenworcel, Republican Brendan Carr is being nominated for the remaining GOP commission seat. Carr has been serving the FCC in the office of the General Counsel.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (6/29). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and, its sessions have begun being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are the “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor and the special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke. Today (6/29), the “Fireside Chat” between Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity has been posted. Closing out the week tomorrow, (6/30) the “Fireside Chat” between Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa will be posted. Within the following weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
TALKERS News Notes. New York market sports talk icons Chris Russo and Mike Francesa will reunite at SiriusXM’s studios on July 6 for a special Town Hall broadcast. The duo – once famously paired on CBS RADIO’s WFAN – will field questions from host Chazz Palminteri and an intimate in-studio audience. They’ll talk about their on-air partnership that made the “Mike & the Mad Dog” show one of the most successful radio shows in sports talk history. It’ll air at 6:00 pm ET on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio channel…..The “Morning Sports Page” AM
show at Cumulus Media’s KTLT, Abilene, Texas “98.1 The Ticket” is wrapping after the Friday morning program. The two-year-old show features Trace Michaels and Matt McGraw. Michaels is leaving the radio station for a career outside the business…..According to a report in LARadio.com, KFI, Los Angeles reporter/anchor Jo Kwon is leaving the iHeartMedia station to take on a multi-media journalist position with CBS’ KCBS-TV and KCAL-TV. Kwon has been with KFI since 2012…..Despite the photo at right, Rhode Island talk show host John DePetro has no immediate plans to join the Trump Administration’s communications department. DePetro is in Washington, DC for the “Hold Their Feet to the Fire” radio row and had the opportunity to snap a photo of himself in the White House press room. DePetro’s program is heard on WADK, Newport and WNRI, Woonsocket.
BFoA Releases Radio PSA. A new 30-second public service announcement is available for radio stations from the Broadcasters Foundation of America. This is part of the charity’s outreach and awareness campaign that launched earlier this spring. The BFoA provides financial assistance to broadcasters in acute need due to critical illness, accident, or other serious misfortune. BFoA says the goal of the outreach campaign and the PSA is to ensure that broadcasters know about its mission of granting hope so that those in need can apply for aid. BFoA president Jim Thompson says, “It is unacceptable that a broadcaster in need may not know that the Broadcasters Foundation is here to provide assistance. We are reaching out aggressively, across every avenue, to get our message of granting hope heard.” Radio stations interested in airing the PSA may download it by clicking on “News” from the homepage of the website at broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact the Foundation at 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.
Status of GOP Health Care Bill, Illegal Immigration Legislation, Trump Travel Ban, U.S. North Korea Policy, CNN’s Yanked Russia Story, Palin NYT Suit, Global Malware Attack, Trump’s Irish Reporter Compliment, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/28). Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to delay a vote on the GOP health care bill and its status going forward; today’s votes in the House on the “Kate’s Law” and “No Sanctuary for Criminals Act” bills; tonight’s implementation of the Trump travel ban; the Trump Administration’s plans to get tough on North Korea and China; the aftermath of the Anthony Scaramucci-Russia story that CNN retracted; Sarah Palin sues The New York Times over its implication her PAC’s actions led to then-Congresswoman Gabby Gifford’s shooting; the global malware attack and concerns about future similar attacks; chatter about President Trump’s compliment about an Irish reporter’s smile; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Rising from his general sales manager position at iHeartMedia Chicago to vice president of sales for the Chicago Region is Joel Kelly. He joined the company in
Chicago in 2014 as GSM after serving as a senior account executive at CBS RADIO’s crosstown country WUSN…..In the Peoria market, Advanced Media Partners announces that Jonathan Steele is named program director for CHR WPIA “98.5 Kiss FM.” Steele comes to Peoria from his most recent PD gig with Martz Communications Group in Upstate New York. He’s no stranger to Peoria, having been on air at crosstown WNGY…..Entercom renews the “BJ and Jamie Morning Show” at hot AC KALC, Denver “Alice 105.9” starring BJ Harris and Jamie White for a five-year term…..iHeartMedia and Turner announce they will again work together to broadcast the former’s iHeartRadio Music Awards live from the “Fabulous” Forum in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 11, 2018. The event will once again be simulcast live on Turner’s TBS, TNT and truTV as well as on iHeartMedia radio stations nationwide and on iHeartRadio. Next year’s awards show will be the fifth annual presentation…..Entercom’s CHR WNVZ, Norfolk “Z104” is presenting its annual Summer Shaggfest all-day music festival on Saturday (7/1) featuring Grammy-nominated recording artist Fetty Wap, ASAP Ferg, Aaron Carter, Aminé, Ashanti, Kyle and more than 20 local artists. Z104 PD Natalia Soniak says, “We’ve got an amazing show this year, Fetty Wap has never performed in Hampton Roads before. We’re gearing up for what is sure to be a successful event.”
iHeartMedia Flips WISX, Philly to Classic Hip Hop and R&B. The new format of former hot AC WISX bears the brand “Real 106.1, Philly’s Real No. 1 for Throwbacks.” Core artists for the format that will focus on rhythmic music from the late 90s and early 2000s include: Notorious B.I.G., Eminem, Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Kanye West. Morning personality Chio remains with the station hosting the AM program. iHeartMedia Philadelphia SVP of programming Brian Check states, “We’re thrilled to launch a station that really represents Philly. We hear from our listeners all the time that this music is fun, infectious and timeless, so we can’t wait to bring these songs back to the airwaves.”
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
FAIR’s ‘Hold Their Feet to the Fire’ Begins Today. The 11th annual Washington, DC radio row that addresses America’s immigration policies is underway at the Phoenix Park Hotel today through tomorrow. Federation for American Immigration Reform’s “Hold Their Feet to the Fire” consists of more than 60 talk radio hosts from around the country holding “a national conversation with voters in all 50 states about what is happening, what isn’t
happening, and what needs to be done to get things moving” regarding America’s “immigration laws being effectively enforced.” TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “FAIR did another fantastic job of gathering what seems to be a record number of hosts to the radio row this year making it one of, if not the, biggest in history. The immigration reform issue has obviously emerged as one of the hottest topics on the talk radio agenda and a wide variety of views concerning it are amply on display at this dynamic happening. It is also, from my perspective, a major demonstration of the First Amendment on display.” Harrison has been booked as a guest on more than 25 shows for the two-day event. Pictured above left is Michael Harrison (right) with KCOL, Colorado Springs talk show host Jimmy Lakey (left). Above right is Harrison with FAIR president Dan Stein.
Westwood One and NextRadio Partner on Audience Measurement Tool. This agreement between Westwood One and NextRadio parent TagStation, LLC will provide for the rollout of what is being called “the first, and largest, interactive audience measurement tool of over-the-air FM radio. This alliance enables Westwood
One to deliver consumer insights and intelligence that optimize campaigns and prove ROI to national advertisers.” The press release says that Westwood One has been testing the NextRadio Dial Report and recently ran a NextRadio campaign for a major retailer on 250 of its radio stations that proved radio drove listeners 
to retail. They say one-third of people who heard the ad also viewed the companion ad within the app. Of those listeners exposed to the campaign, 10% visited the retailer. Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes comments, “Imagine interacting with broadcast radio and brand content on your smartphone. What an inspiration for getting consumers to take immediate action. This capability is now a reality for a quarter of a billion Westwood One listeners who get more control over their experience, while advertisers get massive and actionable insights and results. In addition, NextRadio’s collaboration with industry partners, including Nielsen, further validates this alliance as transformative for our business.”
George Noory Publishes New Book. Nationally syndicated late night talk show host George Noory has just
published his latest book titled, Mad As Hell (Forge Books 2017). This non-fiction book doesn’t deal with the paranormal, but instead reveals Noory’s concerns about the state of America and his worries about its future. The host of Premiere Networks’ “Coast to Coast AM” says, “We live in a dangerous world that is sorely in need of an effective political system. I hope this book will inspire and encourage people to pull together as a society, and put in the hard work it will take to bring back the America that makes us proud.”
TALKERS News Notes. Chicago media maven Robert Feder tips us that WGN late morning personalities Bill Leff and Wendy Snyder have signed contract extensions with the station to continue working there through June of 2020. The former WLUP-FM and WKQX-FM duo joined WGN in 2013. Their show airs from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon with an extra hour that can be heard on wgn.com. Read Feder’s “Robservations” column
here…..SummitMedia brings another sports talk station to the Richmond market, flipping former CHR W291CL/WURV-HD2 “HOT 106.1” to “Sports 106.1.” The station is airing content from CBS Sports Radio…..Panama City, Florida also gets a new sports talk station as Horizon Broadcasting debuts WGSX “104.3 ESPN Panama City” airing programming from ESPN Radio and Fox Sports Radio…..Talk Stream Live is launching its second syndicated network talk show called “Sunday Night Sports Talk with Don and Galen Criqui.” The program streams live at 9:00 pm ET and is being distributed for AM/FM affiliation by Salem Radio Network…..The popular public radio arts and entertainment show “Studio 360” with host Kurt Andersen is operating under a new partnership. Since 2000, the program was a cooperative effort of Public Radio International and WNYC. Now, PRI is teaming with Slate to place the program on the latter’s digital-native podcasting network…..Dave Graveline announces that he has entered into a relationship with Fishnet Syndication to handle affiliate clearing and ad sales for his “Into Tomorrow” consumer electronics and technology talk radio show.
Troopathon 10 to Air in Conjunction with NewsmaxTV. Tomorrow (6/29) is the multi-media simulcast of Move America Forward’s Troopathon 10 – Care Packages for Our Heroes fundraiser to help send care packages to U.S. troops deployed in war zones. This year, Troopathon is partnering with NewsmaxTV, Wounded Warriors, and Rogers Family Coffee to host the 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm ET fundraising event from its base in 
Sacramento. Troopathon executive producer, award-winning talk show host and author Melanie Morgan says, “All Americans can agree that our troops deserve our love and support. The cause we come together to support is incredibly important. With thousands of troops still on the ground in Afghanistan, we cannot forget their continued service and sacrifice. Troopathon remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting our troops in harm’s way!” Morgan will again work with co-host Rita Cosby from WABC, New York and will be joined by guests including: “Newsmax Now” anchor John Bachman, Dionne Warwick, Chuck Woolery, Tony Orlando and Rich Little. Special segments will be hosted by syndicated radio stars Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Mark Levin, and Laura Ingraham. Through 2017, Troopathon events have raised nearly $5 million in sponsorships, enabling the group to send more than 350 tons of care packages to troops overseas.
Cumulus Women at the Gracies. Pictured here (at center) is WABC, New York personality Rita Cosby holding her fifth Gracie Award from the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. She’s flanked by WNSH, New York “NASH FM 94.7” midday personality Katie Neal (left) and WPLJ, New York morning co-host Jayde Donovan (right) on Tuesday (6/27) at The Gracies Luncheon at Cipriani in New York City. Cosby was honored for “Best Interview Feature” for her Election Central special on New York Primary Day during which she interviewed all five presidential candidates.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (6/28). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and, beginning yesterday (6/27), its sessions have begun being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are the “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor. Today (6/28), the special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke has been posted. Tomorrow, Thursday (6/29), the “Fireside Chat” between Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity will be posted. Closing out the week on Friday (6/30) the “Fireside Chat” between Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa will be posted. Within the following weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
Trump-CNN Spat/Trump-Russia Investigation, GOP Delays Health Care Vote, Global Cyberattack, SCOTUS Travel Ban Ruling, EU Fines Google, Sarah Palin Sues NYT, Jane Sanders Investigation, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/27). CNN’s retraction of a Trump-Russia investigation story and volley of tweets between CNN and the president, along with the related special counsel investigation into Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to delay a vote on the GOP health care plan; the ransomware attack that engulfed Ukraine and numerous European targets; the Supreme Court’s ruling allowing a portion of President Donald Trump’s travel ban from seven predominantly Muslim nations to take effect; Google is fined $2.7 billion by the European Union for manipulating search results to benefit its own shopping service; Sarah Palin files suit against The New York Times for implying her PAC’s actions resulted in the shooting of then-U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords; the investigation into Senator Bernie Sanders’ wife Jane over a loan deal for the Vermont college she ran; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Al Michaels Feted at Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters. Pictured above at the June 16 Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters luncheon honoring sports media legend Al Michaels are (from l-r): CRN Digital Talk Radio’s Fred Dryer, Michaels, former LA Kings broadcaster Bob Miller, and CRN CEO Mike Horn.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. At CBS RADIO’s adult contemporary KYXY, San Diego, the morning drive Jeff & the Showgram exits. There’s been no official word from the company but the show’s info has been scrubbed from the website…..Longtime program director and morning show host Jimmy Buff is exiting Chet-5 Broadcasting’s triple A WDST, Woodstock New York “Radio Woodstock 100.1.” In a message on the station’s website, Buff states, “My decision to move on wasn’t easy. Radio Woodstock is an extraordinary radio station and it’s been my honor to be part of it for as long as I have been. The mission to the music, the community and to independent radio here will be ably carried on by my veteran colleagues Greg Gattine and Justin Foy, as well by Rookies of the Year material MK Burnell and Dan Cahill, as well as the rest of the amazing staff.” Gattine will assume programming duties as well as the host the morning drive program. MK Burnell will take over music director duties and will host the PM drive shift. Justin Foy moves to midday host, and Dan Cahill takes over the evening air shift, effective July 5…..Justin K exits Zimmer Radio’s adult contemporary KZWV, Osage Beach, Missouri where he was program director and midday personality…..Former KROQ, Los Angeles jock Rodney Bingenheimer brings his craft to SiriusXM where he’ll host a Sunday night program on Little Steven Van Zandt’s the Underground Garage channel. For more than 40 years, Bingenheimer hosted his “Rodney on the ROQ” program, championing little-known acts that went on to greatness, including the Sex Pistols, The Ramones, Tom Petty, Blondie, Elvis Costello, Van Halen, The Clash, The Smiths, The Go Gos, The Bangles, The Runaways, and Oasis.
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Dennis Prager Guests on This Week’s Harrison Podcast. Longtime Salem Radio Network radio host Dennis Prager joins Michael Harrison as this week’s guest on the PodcastOne award-winning series, “Up Close and Far Out.” The two seasoned broadcasters get into an in-depth discussion about “snowflakes” and the erosion of free speech on college and
university campuses across the nation. The conversation focuses on a forthcoming documentary examining the phenomenon. The film, No Safe Spaces, currently in production and scheduled for release in 2018, features the unlikely pairing of religious scholar and conservative pundit Prager with satirist, podcaster and self-proclaimed atheist Adam Carolla. The unlikely duo has joined forces in the crowd-funded project based on their common concerns about the state of free speech on university campuses in America today. Harrison and Prager also discuss the state of religion, media, politics and raising children in today’s increasingly frenzied culture. To listen to the entire podcast, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
TALKERS News Notes. TALKERS magazine hears that WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM, Providence program director Tony Mascaro has exited the station, though there’s been no public explanation by Mascaro or station
management. It’s unclear what WPRO’s plans are for replacing Mascaro…..Today and tomorrow (6/27-
28), KHOW, Denver morning drive personality Ross Kaminsky is sitting in for Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo on his WOAI, San Antonio-based, nationally syndicated program…..In Tampa, John Mamola tweets that he’s been promoted from his APD/executive producer/online content coordinator role at iHeartMedia’s sports talk WDAE to program director. He’s been with the station for the past six years. The Chicago native previously served with CBS RADIO in the Windy City…..ABC Radio is debuting a new podcast titled “Motivated” hosted by ABC News Correspondent
Mara Schiavocampo. The podcast addresses all things health, wellness, nutrition and spirituality. ABC Radio says, “After struggling with her weight her entire life, Schiavocampo finally discovered the keys to living a healthier, happier life and losing 90 pounds along the way. She shares her journey in her bestselling weight loss memoir, Thinspired: How I Lost 90 Pounds: My Plan for Lasting Weight Loss & Self-Acceptance.
Will WFAN (and Sports Talk) Exist 30 Years from Now? Those are the questions asked by Newsday
columnist Neil Best, who reflects on the state of sports talk radio in New York as CBS RADIO’s WFAN celebrates its 30th anniversary as a sports talk station. Original WFAN staffer Suzyn Waldman says that while it’s true that social media has changed the game, two people talking is what makes sports talk radio. “It’s a person, and you can hear the feelings. And I think if you’re a host, this never goes away: If you’re on the radio, fans know immediately whether you’re full of baloney or you’re not. They can love you, they can hate you, but they know whether you’re honest. You can’t hide.” Read Best’s Newsday piece here.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Begin Posting Today (6/27). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and, beginning today (6/27), its sessions will be posted to Talkers.com starting with the “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor. Tomorrow (6/28), the special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke will be posted. On Thursday (6/29) the “Fireside Chat” between Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity will be posted. Closing out the week on Friday (6/30) the “Fireside Chat” between Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa will be posted. Within the following weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
WILK-AM/FM, Wilkes-Barre’s L.A. Tarone Dies at 58. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton talk show host Louis Alfred Tarone, a.k.a. L.A. Tarone, died at age 58 on Sunday (6/25) after a 19-month battle with lung cancer. Tarone hosted the afternoon drive show on the Entercom news/talk station during the last two years. He’d also worked during his career as a reporter for the Hazleton Standard-Speaker.
SCOTUS Travel Ban Ruling, GOP Health Care Plan, CNN Journos Resign After Retracted Story, U.S. Warns Syria on Chemical Attack, Changes at Pandora, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/26). The Supreme Court’s ruling allowing a portion of President Donald Trump’s travel ban from seven predominantly Muslim nations to take effect; analysis of the GOP’s proposed overhaul of the Affordable Care Act; the resignation of three CNN journalists after the news organization retracts a Trump official-Russia connection story; the White House warns Syria’s Bashar al Assad on threats of new chemical weapons attack; the recent investment in Pandora by SiriusXM and Pandora CEO Tim Westergren’s decision to step down from that post; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Seattle rhythmic oldies outlet KHTP “HOT 103.7” announces the addition of Seattle radio pro Eric Power as program director and afternoon drive personality plus
the addition of award-winning rap artist Anthony Ray, a.k.a. Sir Mix-A-Lot to serve as morning drive personality. Both start July 5. Entercom Seattle VP of programming and operations Dave Richards comments, “We’re so excited to 
have Eric Powers on board to lead ‘HOT 103.7.’ He is the guy who made all the songs ‘HOT 103.7’ now play, hits in the first place. With two local Seattle icons, Sir Mix-A-Lot in mornings and Powers in afternoons, ‘HOT 103.7’ is ready to launch into the next stratosphere.”…..Two promotions take place at Cumulus Media’s hot AC WRQX, Washington, DC. First, midday
personality and music director Ashley Nickels adds assistant program director duties, and the station ups part-timer Seth King to permanent evening host, handling the 7:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart. Nickels has been with the station since she joined from KDND, 
Sacramento in 2014. King became a WRQX personality after working on air at CHR WXXX, Burlington, Vermont…..Midday air personality Sunni moves to mornings at CBS RADIO’s hip hop WPGC, Washington. She becomes part of the “Joe Clair Morning Show” after six years with the station. CBS Washington VP of programming Steve Davis states, “Sunni is the perfect fit for the ‘Joe
Clair Morning Show’ and we are incredibly fortunate she wanted to get up early and make the transition to mornings…..The Cromwell Group names Tara Nickerson general manager for its eight-station Decatur, Illinois cluster. Nickerson rises from the programming and operations ranks with Cromwell to lead the cluster, taking over for Chris Bullock…..Tim Westergren officially exits the CEO role at Pandora. The company announces that chief financial officer Naveen Chopra will serve as interim CEO…..Alpha Media country WFLS, Fredericksburg, Virginia is honored with three Reader’s Choice awards from the local Discover magazine. The station took home 1st Place awards for Favorite Radio Station, Favorite Local Radio Personality – Steve Waters and Jessica Cash, and Favorite Weather and Traffic on Radio.
MIW and Nielsen Music Unveil Mentoring Program. The Mentoring & Inspiring Women in Radio Group executive committee and Nielsen Music announce a collaborative effort to open doors for women 
interested in management positions in music broadcast programming across the country. The MIW-Nielsen Music Mentoring Program matches a female programming candidate with key mentors from both the MIW Radio Group and Nielsen Music to sharpen her programming and professional skills and further her career in music programming. MIW Group executive committee member and Presslaff Interactive Revenue president Ruth Presslaff says, “Improving the number of women in programming has been on our radar for several years. With the generous support of Nielsen Music, the MIW Group is now keenly focused on the challenge of increasing the percentage of growth in this vitally important sector. We are so appreciative of Nielsen Music’s backing in this endeavor.”
May 2017 PPM Analysis: Mainstream CHR
By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
TALKERS
LOS ANGELES — In our fourth and final May 2017 in-depth overview, we see that mainstream CHRs ranking in the top 20 in a PPM market typically have a 6+-share of 4.52 and finish #8.73.
With the exception of Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario (Southern California’s Inland Empire), each of the 48-PPM markets has at least one “qualifying” mainstream CHR/top 40.
Nielsen Audio only releases audience estimates for stations that subscribe to its services. For that reason, ratings stats in this exclusive analysis are limited to stations that pay Nielsen Audio for its data.
Already posted are our three previous May 2017 format scoreboards for all-news (Wednesday, 6/21); sports-talk (Thursday, 6/22); and adult hits (Friday, 6/23).
