Tag: "Baby Boomers"
Monday Memo: Pandemic Purchasing Habits
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Baseball will start late this year. At least we hope it will start. As virus variants foretell #StayHomeTFN, life-disrupted suggests opportunities for the observant.
NOT just toilet paper hoarding.
From Stop & Shop, the supermarket goliath here in New England:
Monday Memo: ‘Better Be Nice to the Boomers’
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Until those darn Millennials came along, Baby Boomers – now 56 to 74 years old – were the most-populous generation in history. My Dad marched home from World War II and he and Mom had seven of us. Unlike Millennials, Boomers have a lifelong AM/FM listening habit.
Monday Memo: ‘Mainstream Media’ Redefined
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — For several decades, the term “Mainstream Media” has been weaponized, first by scrappy fringe voices railing against legacy networks and newspapers; more recently by FOX News Channel and Rush Limbaugh…ironic, since ratings qualify them as “mainstream.” But never has the obsolescence of the term been more painfully obvious than lately, especially during the George Floyd episode.
Monday Memo: Telephone. It’s for You
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Why I LOVE the Christmas tunes radio reverts to this time of year: I can hear The Beach Boys on FM.
The dang BEACH BOYS, who contributed so much volume-up TSL when Baby Boomers were young. Now, radio seems to think they were one-hit wonders…maybe two, if “The Man With All The Toys” is also airing. Otherwise, FM affords “Little Saint Nick” the same status as those barking dogs and mischievous Chipmunks, one-and-done until next year.
Radio for the 55+ Listener? It’s About Time
By Mark Wainwright
SYRACUSE — But the key to reaching this audience is in rekindling their relationship with radio. It takes more than just playing the right music.
If you’ve spent any time on social media recently, you probably noticed that long-time programmer and consultant John Sebastian has been working to generate interest in his proposed 55+ format. While the idea has received quite a bit of positive feedback, much of it is focused on the music mix. Yes, the right music is important, but the real key to this format’s potential has been overlooked, and it’s something that applies equally to both music and news/talk stations.
’68 Turns 68
By Holland Cooke
Media Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Today, April 4, is a sad anniversary. Fifty years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated in Memphis. In Indianapolis, where Robert Kennedy was campaigning for president, the crowd was unaware.
This year, I and my classmates in the high school Class of ’68 TURN 68. And as chaotic as 2018 seems, we’ve seen this movie before (although the music was better the first time).
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
ABC Radio and Skyview Networks Expand Radio Syndication Efforts. A statement from both companies says ABC Radio and Skyview Networks are “further aligning” their resources to “identify, develop and syndicate talent and programs to broadcast radio.” For its part, ABC Radio will seek out talent
syndication opportunities – for both music and news/talk formats – and will handle the affiliate sales angle, while Skyview Networks will take care of national sales and distribution. ABC Radio VP/GM Steve Jones states, “We are building on the momentum and tremendous success we’ve already seen in our existing 
partnership. ABC Radio has always represented creative and innovative programming and we are excited to offer programmers and talent a new, stable business environment to grow and monetize their brands.” Skyview Networks president Ken Thiele adds, “The timing of our syndication partnership couldn’t be more perfect. We’ve heard from a significant number of programs and clearly there is a need for another syndication option in the marketplace. We’re growing and continue to make substantial investments in technology and our staff, and it’s paying off. This new venture is really a reflection of the dynamic synergies between ABC Radio and Skyview, and our positive business trajectory.” In July 2016, ABC Radio and Skyview Networks renewed their content, ad sales, affiliate sales and audio distribution agreement.
Cumulus and Merlin Strike a Deal for WKQX, Chicago. On Tuesday evening, Cumulus Media announced that it has arrived at a deal to acquire Chicago alternative rock WKQX from Merlin Media. Cumulus has been operating the station under a local marketing agreement, but when it filed to reorganize under Chapter 11, it asked the court to void a number of its prior
agreements that it considered onerous. The WKQX LMA included a “put-and-call” that would have allowed Merlin to force Cumulus to buy the station at a predetermined price (the “put”). The combo deal included WLUP-FM, but Merlin found another willing buyer in Education Media Foundation, which is acquiring WLUP for $50 million. As part of this deal, Cumulus Media is also getting the intellectual property of “The Loop.” The speculation in Chicago is that the company will transform classic hits WLS-FM into “94/7 The Loop.” Cumulus CEO Mary Berner says, “After operating the station for the past four years, we are delighted to be able to bring this beloved station under Cumulus’ ownership on economic terms that make sense for our business. We look forward to continuing to deliver the best alternative rock programming to our devoted listeners in the Chicago area for years to come.” Though no price for WKQX in included in the press release, media trade RBR-TVBR is reporting the price tag is $18 million.
Janet Bro Named COO at USA Radio Networks. Rising from vice president/general sales manager to chief operating officer at USA Radio Networks is Janet Bro. The company announces that this promotion comes
as the company completes its corporate relocation from Phoenix to its flagship station offices at KBDT-AM, Dallas. USA says that in this new position, Bro will lead the networks, including the company’s stations in Chicago, Dallas and Minneapolis, as well as five properties in Nevada. USA says, “Bro comes from a 
distinguished career in media and advertising. She began in radio/TV at Bradley University, has owned and operated three FM stations in Illinois and managed others before embarking on a two-decade adventure with Verizon’s Yellow Pages.” USA Radio Networks CEO Fred Weinberg says, “Our goal is to create news and programming that we and our affiliates can be proud of. We’re not Democrats or Republicans, we’re Americans and that’s how we see the news. Janet is the perfect person to push this forward.” USA Radio Networks provides news and long-form talk programming for some 500 affiliates across the country.
Still No Kevin Klein at ’97.3 The Machine’ in San Diego. Yes, Entercom’s KEGY, San Diego “97.3 The Machine” is still playing rock music and comedy bits during morning drive, five days after air personality Kevin Klein was to debut as host of the new station’s AM drive show. He’s still listed on the
station’s website, so it’s unlikely he’s been let go. What is likely is that Entercom is still negotiating with the San Diego Padres over the station’s role as flagship for the MLB club. The Padres either stay or they go. If they stay, one line of thought is that the station veers from the guy talk/sports hybrid to a pure sports talk station (in order to assuage the team). But if the Padres take their play-by-
play elsewhere, perhaps Kevin Klein takes to the air as morning host and the station keeps its “edge.” It’s hard to imagine Entercom letting this go beyond this week and it must be very difficult to sell time on a station thats format is in question. In case you’ve missed the backstory, Klein posted a promotional Tweet for his show that poked fun at the city’s Coronado Bridge and its history as a site of so many suicides. That upset many San Diegans, as well as the Padres. But, that wasn’t the only issue. According to comments made to the San Diego Union Tribune by Padres executive chairman Ron Fowler, the club hasn’t been happy with the station’s general tone. Fowler told the paper that the team would get through the opening series of the season and then “sit down and evaluate it,” meaning the team’s relationship with the station.
Larry Kudlow to Do Regular Guest Spot on WABC’s John Batchelor Program. The new director of the National Economic Council – Larry Kudlow – is going to join John Batchelor each Tuesday evening at 9:00 as a guest on Batchelor’s WABC, New York radio program. The station says that the
Tuesday night guest spots “will include other colleagues and will cover topics including the economic health of the U.S. and its allies and trading partners.” WABC program director Craig Schwalb states, “Kudlow and Batchelor have been working together on-air each week since 2004. It is a joy to learn that the Trump administration is willing to make the country’s new economic adviser available to the national and global audience of ‘The John Batchelor Show.'”
Cooke: The Class of ’68 Turns 68. Media consultant Holland Cooke writes today about the value of Baby Boomers to talk radio. On the 50thanniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Cooke notes many of the cultural touchstones that affected the generation. He says that while Millennials now outnumber the Boomers, the Baby Boom generation outspends the Millennials at retail. That’s an important fact for radio sales people who are selling upper-demo radio formats like news/talk. See his piece here.
TALKERS News Notes. We have a new date in the legal saga between Bubba the Love Sponge and Nielsen Audio. After suddenly postponing Monday’s
scheduled start of the courtroom proceedings, the two sides are being called in for a status conference on April 10. Perhaps we’ll learn more about the trial schedule after that. Nielsen is suing Bubba for $1 million in damages for his part in a PPM ratings manipulation plot in the Tampa market…..Salem Media Group re-brands KDZR, Lake Oswego, Oregon from its former “Talk 1640” to 
“AM 1640 The Patriot.” Also, in Oregon, Salem rebrands KPAM, Portland – the station it’s operating under an LMA – to the familiar “AM 860 The Answer.” Some programming adjustments take place on KPAM as the SRN-syndicated Dennis Prager grabs an hour from the local Tim Hohl and Terry Travis morning show. Courtside Entertainment’s Laura Ingraham show replaces Clark Howard in middays, and the afternoon drive show featuring Michael Herrington and Eric Peterson changes from “Afternoon Northwest” to “The Afternoon Answer.”…..Today (4/4) Alpha Media is joining World Concern to raise funds to “Cure 1 Million Kids.” As part of World Health Week, Alpha Media stations in 49 markets are working to raise money to cure children living in developing countries of parasites that can cause blindness, malnutrition, disease and even death. Alpha Media CEO/president Bob Proffitt remarks, “We are so proud and honored to work with World Concern for this one-day push to help save children’s lives. We are passionate to use the power of our Alpha community of listeners and business clients to do what we can to help those less fortunate. World Concern is a wonderful organization that will take what we raise and make a difference in a young person’s life.”
Broadcasters Foundation of America Launches ‘Broadcasting Hope’ Campaign. A new industry-wide campaign is being launched by the Broadcasters Foundation of America, called, “Broadcasting Hope.” The goal of the initiative is to reach broadcasters across the country with trade ads,
social media, and more to ensure that broadcasters in acute need know they can apply for aid from the Broadcasters Foundation. It is the only charity devoted exclusively to providing financial assistance to broadcasters whose lives have been devastated by illness, accident, or disaster. BFoA chairman Dan Mason says, “There are broadcasters in local markets across America who may qualify for aid, and it’s imperative that they know the Broadcasters Foundation can be a life support. The radio and TV trade publications and members of the National Alliance of State Broadcast Associations have been very supportive in helping us expand awareness of the Foundation’s charitable mission.”
U.S.-China Trade War, Trump-Russia Probe, Ingraham-Hogg Feud, YouTube Shooter, U.S.-Mexico Relations/Illegal Immigration Battle, Spotify Stock Market Debut, Villanova Beats Michigan, MLB Action and NBA Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/3). The brewing trade war between the U.S. and China as both countries impose tariffs; the investigation into possible connections between the Trump campaign and Russian agents and Robert Mueller’s notice to President Trump’s lawyers that the investigation continues but the president is not a target right now; the feud between FOX News Channel’s Laura Ingraham and Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg; the woman shooter who injured four before taking her own life at the YouTube campus in California; the relations between the U.S. and Mexico and President Trump’s threat to use the military to guard the border; digital audio giant Spotify goes public; Villanova beats Michigan to claim the NCAA title; the first week of MLB action, 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. Newly flipped country KNUC, Seattle re-brands as “The NEW 98.9 The Bull.” Lisa Adams is the program director at the Hubbard Radio station and she says, “Welcome to the next evolution of 98.9, a personality all its own. More BULL, more MUSIC, more FUN.” She also says the station plans to make its final additions to the air staff soon…..Also from Hubbard Radio, the Chicago cluster announces that sales pro Nancy O’Brien is promoted to director of sales for hot AC WTMX, classic rock WDRV “The Drive,” adult contemporary WSHE, and in-house digital media services arm 2060 Digital. O’Brien has most recently been serving as national sales manager Midwest region for the company…..Neuhoff Media tweaks CHR WWHX-FM, Bloomington, Illinois to a rhythmic CHR station with the new brand, “HOT 100 The Beat of BloNo.” Neuhoff Media Bloomington vice president and general manager Danielle Outlaw says, “‘HOT 100’ is the only station designed specifically for the 18-34-year-old audience in Bloomington-Normal. The music, the connection, the interactivity, the engagement and the beat. Bloomington-Normal was ready for ‘HOT 100,’ we’re thrilled by the reaction, the future has arrived, it’s ‘HOT 100.’”
Monday, January 22, 2018
Imus: Show Will End on March 29. There’s no official word from Cumulus Media or
Westwood One, but Don Imus announced on the WABC, New York-based morning program today (1/22) that he will end the “Imus in the Morning” program on March 29. The iconic New York and nationally syndicated program has been part of the broadcast landscape in America since the early 1970s. Stay tuned as more information about the change is revealed.
WTVN, Columbus Talk Host John Corby Dead at 61. The Columbus Dispatch reports that afternoon drive host John Corby had been off the air a few days prior to
his unexpected death at 61 on Saturday (1/20). No cause of death has been announced but the Dispatch story says fellow station personalities said on the air that he passed peacefully at Mount Carmel West Hospital. He is survived by his wife Jodi and a daughter. He worked at WTVN from 1984 to 1994, when he left to host at KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh. He returned to WTVN in 1997. Read the Dispatch obituary here.
Profile: Reliable Remote Royalty Comrex. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a profile of the company so many broadcasters have turned to over the years to provide them with the high-quality, American
-made equipment to get “studio-quality” audio from remote locations to their transmitters. The 60-year-old Comrex Corporation was born as a firm dedicated to providing wireless microphones to the Broadway theater and live events markets. But, the company quickly transitioned into one that used telephone lines to deliver “higher-quality audio” from remote locations to broadcast facilities. Comrex truly upped its game by leading the industry with its mastery of voice-over-Internet protocol in its line of ACCESS products. Read all about it here.
Are Radio and Agencies Missing the Mark by Not More Heavily Targeting Boomers? Two noted media consultants think that the radio and advertising industries are blowing a huge opportunity by not paying more attention to the increasingly growing 65-plus crowd. TALKERS correspondent/columnist Holland Cooke and Jacobs Media CEO Fred Jacobs tackled the issue this past Friday on the latest installment of Cooke’s weekly TV talk show “The Big Picture” on RT America. The two boomers make a very strong case for their generation’s radio marketplace pertinence showing statistics and examples of the affluence and influence wielded by today’s upper-demo audience. To see the video of “Baby Boomers: The Most Consequential Generation,” please click here.
TALKERS News Notes. The sale of Boston AM signal WBIX, means the demise of the Salem Media Group conservative talk format in the market. Salem is selling the
station to religious entity International Church of the Grace of God Inc. for $685,000 — $185,000 more than it paid for the signal when it bought it from ABC/Disney almost three years ago. The church is already airing a Portuguese-language format on the station under an LMA…..The fourth signal that made up Connoisseur Media’s “Talk of Connecticut” format is being sold to Trignition for $260,000. WWCO, Waterbury and the construction permit for an FM translator were not part of the recent announcement of the sale by Connoisseur of WDRC-AM, Hartford; WSNG, Torrington; and WMMW, Meriden to Red Wolf Broadcasting for $8 million…..At San 
Diego’s Broadcasting Corporation of the Americas, Jenny Rose Gonzalez is promoted from her local sales manager post to general sales manager for the cluster that includes: sports talk XEPRS “The Mighty 1090,” sports XEPE “ESPN 1700,” and classic hits XHPRS “105.7 Max-FM.” Station president and general manager Mike Glickenhaus comments, “It is always great when you can promote from within your organization. This promotion reflects the dedication, creativity, passion, leadership, and great work ethic that Jenny Rose has demonstrated day in and day out since she walked in the door.”…..Nationally syndicated urban radio morning personality Steve Harvey is getting another year for his television talk show. NBCUniversal Domestic Television Distribution announces that it is picking up a second season for the “Steve” program. Of course, Harvey’s daily radio show is syndicated by Premiere Networks. NBCUniversal says that Harvey’s show delivered “a season high 1.5 rating for the week ending 1/7/18.” The program “recently averaged a 1.4 national household rating for the November 2017 sweep, delivering the highest November sweep rating for a new, first-run, one-hour syndicated program in five years.”…..In Maine, Townsquare Media steals Boston Red Sox play-by-play away from Stephen King’s WZON, Bangor. With the new affiliation with the WEEI, Boston-based Red Sox Radio Network, Townsquare’s WEZQ, Bangor “92.9 The Ticket” holds the play-by-play rights to all four Boston sports teams.
Government Shutdown, DACA/Immigration Policy, Women’s Marches, Allegations Hillary Clinton Investigation Was Fixed, the SAG Awards, Middle East Peace Talks, Kabul Hotel Attack, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The federal government shutdown and the politics of crafting a solution to the impasse; the Trump Administration’s efforts to overturn the Obama era DACA act and its immigration policy; the weekend’s women’s marches that took place across the country; allegations that former members of Robert Mueller’s team knew that Hillary Clinton would not be prosecuted in the emails investigation ahead of time; Sunday night’s Screen Actors Guild awards show; Vice President Mike Pence arrives in Israel after visiting Egypt and Jordan for Middle East peace talks; terror attacks at the International Hotel in Kabul; and Sunday’s NFL playoff games were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Broadcasters Foundation of America Establishes Edward F. McLaughlin Memorial Fund. The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces the establishment of 
the Edward F. McLaughlin Memorial Fund to honor the iconic broadcaster who passed away last week at the age of 91 in Palm Beach, Florida. McLaughlin was at the helm of ABC Radio Network for many years and is responsible for putting legendary talk host Rush Limbaugh into syndication in 1987. McLaughlin was a longtime chairman of the Broadcasters Foundation and held the title of chairman emeritus at the time of his death. To donate to the Edward F. McLaughlin Memorial Fund, visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, call 212-373-8250, or email: info@thebfoa.org.
Karen Hunter Is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. Described by Michael Harrison as “one of the most important talk media personalities in the industry whose time has definitely come,” SiriusXM Satellite Radio star Karen Hunter joins the TALKERS founder as this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “Up Close and Far Out.” Hunter hosts a daily 3:00 pm to
6:00 pm talk program on the SiriusXM’s “Urban View” channel that has been receiving glowing industry acclaim. She is also a prolific New York Times best-selling co-author; CEO of highly successful Karen Hunter Publishing; and a professor of film and media at Hunter College in New York City. (The name is coincidental.) Hunter is also a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who was the first female African American news columnist at the New York Daily News. Harrison and Hunter discuss today’s hottest issues regarding media, race, society, gender relations, education, science, religion and politics. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, 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.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. If Cumulus Media gets its way and a bankruptcy judge allows the company to get out of its deal to buy WKQX and WLUP-FM in Chicago from Merlin Media, Merlin principal Randy Michaels says the
company is prepared to step in and operate the alternative and classic rock stations, “essentially, as is.” That’s according to Robert Channick’s piece in the Chicago Tribune. Cumulus 
appealed to the court to get out of certain deals that are losing ventures – such as the White Sox and Bulls play-by-play contracts for WLS-AM that are revenue negative. Cumulus told the court that the Merlin LMA of the two rock stations has cost it $8.4 million to date. Merlin exercised the option in the contract to sell the stations to Cumulus for $50 million. Cumulus is asking the court to allow it to get out of that deal, as well. Cumulus and Merlin have been trying to negotiate a new deal but have not been able to come to terms that each side like. A judge is set to decide on Cumulus’ requests by February 1. Cumulus hopes to exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection by May
29…..Alternative rock radio pro Lisa Worden is adding program director for KSYR, Los Angeles “ALT 98.7” to her responsibilities for iHeartMedia. She was appointed vice president of programming for the station and alternative rock brand manager for the company’s National Programming Group when she joined it back in November. She was previously assistant program director and music director for crosstown KROQ-FM, Los Angeles 
prior to the station’s sale from CBS RADIO to Entercom…..After two years in the St. Louis market as regional SVP of programming for iHeartMedia, A.J. moves to the company’s Charlotte market where he’ll be the new program director for CHR WHQC “Channel 96.1” and adult hits WLKO “102.9 The Lake,” effective February 12. iHeartMedia EVP of programming Meg Stevens comments, “Bringing A.J. to Charlotte is a game-changer for the market. He is passionate and creative as well as analytical and strategic. He’s the perfect addition to team Charlotte.” In St. Louis, he programmed CHR KSLZ-FM “Z107.7” and Gospel KATZ-AM “Hallelujah 1600.”…..Entercom and KMXB, Las Vegas “Mix 94.1” agree to terms on a contract renewal for morning personalities Mercedes
Martinez (right) and JC Fernandez (left). Entercom Las Vegas SVP and market manager Dan Kearney states, “‘Mercedes in the Morning’ is an integral part of the Las Vegas community’s morning and we are proud to continue our partnership with the iconic Mercedes and JC for the years to come. Both bring an exciting energy to ‘Mix 94.1’ and we are looking forward to seeing them take the show to new heights.”…..Sean Stewart is the new program director and morning drive personality at Entercom’s rock WRXR, Chattanooga “Rock 105.” Stewart, who moves to WRXR from his post as music director at crosstown CHR WDOD, says, “This role is a huge opportunity and I’m excited to bring new life into Chattanooga’s best rock brand.”…..Westwood One is again the official radio broadcast partner of the Recording Academy and the “60th Annual GRAMMY Awards.” As part of its build-up to the January 28 awards show, Westwood One is presenting 13 “intimate performances for passionate music lovers and dedicated station listeners” live from the Hackensack Meridian Health Stage 17 high atop Madison Square Garden in New York City. Hot AC WPLJ and country WNSH “NASH FM 94.7” are hosting the invite-only performances that will feature: Troye Sivan, Lauv, Bleachers, Cody Simpson, Logan Henderson, Shane Owens, Max, Marshmello, Jessie Chris, Lauren Alaina, PJ Morton, Midland, and Kelly Clarkson.
Friday, July 14, 2017
Nielsen Releases Total Audience Report for First Quarter of 2017. The new edition of Nielsen’s Total Audience Report for the first quarter of 2017 compares the consumer media habits of Americans to the same period in 2016 based on their age and inclusion in one of four generational groupings – Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. As expected, the measure of daily time spent with AM/FM radio is shrinking among 
the younger generations. During the first quarter of 2017, both Baby Boomers and Generation Xers spent about two hours a day with the medium, while Millennials averaged 1:37. Both figures are steady from Q1 2016 to Q1 2017. Generation Z’s use of AM//FM was steady from quarter to quarter at 1:08 (only ages 12-20 were included in the radio figure). The use of an app or web service via smartphone has shot up across the three older generations (Gen Z is not included due to privacy regs for minors) from quarter to quarter. Baby Boomers’ use rose from 1:20 to 2:29 from Q1 2016 to Q1 2017; Gen Xers’ use went from 1:40 to 2:36; and Millennials’ use spiked from 2:01 to 2:51. Breaking the age groups down even further, the report indicates that adult AM/FM radio monthly reach during Q1 of 2017 was as follows: 50-64 – 62.5 million; 35-49 – 59.8 million; 25-34 – 42.5 million; 18-24 – 29.7 million; and 12-17 – 23.8 million. See more about the report here.
Dana Loesch NRA Ad Spurs Protest at DC Headquarters. Today (7/14) at 1:00 pm ET, a Women’s March will convene at the Washington, DC headquarters of the National Rifle Association to protest the organization’s
recent ad announcing its intent to fight back against political opponents with the “clenched fist of truth.” Radio America talk show host and author (and unabashed gun rights advocate) Dana Loesch is the spokeswoman in the video ad. Critics of the ad object to the language used, saying it’s “irresponsible and dangerous” and “suggests armed violence against communities of color.” Loesch says that in response, during her special program today she’ll focus on “Second Amendment rights, examples of peaceful rallies, a history of violent leftist protests, and discussion of a Women’s Rights organizer recently calling for jihad.”
Santoro Named Director of Marketing for iHM Boston. This promotion boosts Shaileen Santoro from marketing manager to director of marketing for iHeartMedia’s Boston Region, effective immediately. Santoro’s duties include overseeing all aspects of iHeartMedia Boston’s marketing and promotions department and working closely with the sales and programming teams to promote and market concerts, broadcast shows, on-air talent, local
community events and partnerships on air and online. Stations in the region include: news/talk WKOX “Talk 1430,” business news WXKS “Bloomberg Radio,” CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108,” hip hop WJMN “JAM’N 94.5,” and country WBWL “101.7 The Bull.” iHM SVP of programming for the Boston Region Dylan Sprague comments, “Shaileen’s combination of passion, creativity, meticulous attention to detail and years of experience made her the obvious choice for this role. Our marketing team is the best in the business and Shaileen’s leadership will elevate it further.”
TALKERS News Notes. The new editorial and newsgathering partnership between CBS News and BBC News fills the needs for both. For CBS, BBC News replaces the partnership it had with Sky – which is in the process of being acquired by 21st Century Fox. The BBC is looking to CBS to take the place of former partner ABC News. CBS News president David Rhodes says, “CBS News is completely committed to original reporting around the world – a commitment clearly shared by the BBC. There’s no better partner to strengthen and extend our global coverage than BBC News.”…..The Kevin McCullough-hosted “Radio Night LIVE” radio and TV “SuperCast” adds affiliate stations WGCH-AM, Greenwich/Stamford, Connecticut and WANN-TV, Atlanta…..Former NBC News personality Tamron Hall, who left the organization in February after it was announced that Megyn Kelly would take over the third hour of the “Today” show, is developing a daytime talk show in conjunction with Weinstein Television. Variety reports that the program will be shot in front of a live audience and feature discussion of current events, human-interest stories and celebrity interviews.
Trump Jr-Russia Story Tops the Talkers TenTM This Week. The controversy surrounding Donald Trump Jr.’s meeting with Russian attorney Natalia Veselnitskaya during the 2016 campaign was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week of July 10-14, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was GOP health care plan and the push to vote on a package before the August break. Coming in at #3 was President Trump’s trip to France, followed by the two environmental stories – the new Antarctic iceberg and the talk of a sixth mass extinction – 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.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (7/14) with Jeff Smulyan, Kevin Casey and Steve Weisman. The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are the “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein); the special presentation “You 
HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan); the “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon); the “Fireside Chat” between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo); the special presentation “The Trump Effect: Latest Research of Interest to News/Talk Radio” by Salem Radio Network SVP Phil Boyce (with introduction by Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host Brad Shepard); the special presentation “Podcasting and Local Radio” by PodcastOne excutive chairman Norm Pattiz (with introduction by Hubbard Radio SVP/programming Greg Strassell); and the first, second and third in a series of three consecutive “one-on-one” sessions discussing the topic “Maximizing Talk Radio’s Multi-Platform Potential for Reach and Revenue” featuring conversations between WABC, New York, PD Craig Schwalb and KGO, San Francisco host Ethan Bearman, Bold Gold Media Group president/CEO Vince Benedetto and DGital Media managing partner Ron Hartenbaum, and nationally syndicated host Dr. Asa Andrew and TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein. All three sessions are facilitated by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio host Karen Hunter. Yesterday (7/12) TALKERS posted a “one-on-one” dialogue titled “Radio That Makes a Difference” featuring the SiriusXM Satellite Radio husband/wife team of host Joe Madison and executive producer Sharon Madison (introduced by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio VP/GM talk programming Dave Gorab). Yesterday (7/13), a “Fireside Chat” was posted featuring former CBS Radio president/CEO and Broadcasters Foundation of America chairman Dan Mason being interviewed by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (with introduction by BOB-FM, London morning host Graham Mack). Today (7/14) TALKERS is posting a “Fireside Chat” featuring Emmis Communications CEO/chairman Jeff Smulyan being interviewed by TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey (with an introduction by Bentley University professor/TALKERS legal editor Steve Weisman). Within the following days and weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. There are three changes at iHeartMedia’s Boston station group to announce: First, Michael “Mikey V” Vinci is named the assistant program director and music director for CHR WXKS-FM “KISS 108” in addition to his current evening show hosting role. At country WBWL “101.7 The Bull,” Lance Houston signs a new, long-term agreement to continue his role as the station’s program director and evening personality. And at hip hop WJMN “JAM’N 94-5,” DJ Pup Dawg signs a new deal to continue as APD and music director at the station…..Stephens Media Group brings Premiere Networks’ Delilah back to adult contemporary WVLF, Norwood, New York (Watertown market) for the evening daypart.
Round Two of June PPM Data Released. The second of four rounds of June 2017 PPM ratings information from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, Boston, Miami, Detroit, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s June 2017 survey period covered May 25 – June 21. View 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Meanwhile, managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his “Takeaways” from all of these PPM markets.
TWELVE TAKEAWAYS
1) Washington, D.C. – Climbing from ninth to eighth, Columbia Union College contemporary Christian WGTS has its fourth straight up or flat trend that accounts for a +1.6 (2.9 – 3.2 – 3.7 – 3.7 – 4.5, 6+). Moreover, “91.9 Christian Music Radio” reaches the four-share level (6+) for the first time since “Holiday” 2013’s 4.1. Stuck on 2.8
(6+) in February, March, and April, Cumulus Media hot AC WRQX “Mix 107.3” is a combined +.6 in May and June (2.9 – 3.4, 6+) and rises from #16 to #13. This represents the highest 6+-share for “Mix” since it returned to hot AC (from CHR) in mid-November 2013. As far as 6+-share is concerned for WAMU, it continues to be a rollercoaster ride. A combined -1.5 in back-to-back sweeps (11.5 – 11.0 – 10.0, February – March – 
April, 6+), WAMU rebounded in May with a +.7 to 10.7 (6+), but “The Mind Is Our Medium” forfeits exactly twice that increase in June (9.3, -1.4, 6+). Even though -1.4 is the largest (6+) May 2017 – June 2017 decrease by any station in the 12 PPM-markets whose data was released yesterday, WAMU is the market leader for the sixth consecutive time. Off by -2.3 in “Holiday” 2016, the American University-owned station recaptured all of it in January and February (9.2 – 11.0 – 11.5, 6+). February’s 11.5 matches the highest 6+-share in its PPM-history, first reached in December 2016. Holding down the runner-up slot in each of the six
successive sweeps that WAMU has finished first is Hubbard all-news operation WTOP, which is off for the third consecutive time (9.9 – 9.1 – 8.8 – 8.7, 6+) for a collective -1.2. Following five straight sweeps without a decrease that generated a +1.5 (3.9 – 4.5 – 4.9 – 5.2 – 5.2 – 5.4, 6+), iHeartMedia’s WBIG “Big 100 – Washington’s Classic Rock Station” stumbles by six-tenths to 4.8 (fourth to 
sixth, 6+). Having doubled its 6+-stat since February with three straight gains (1.5 – 2.2 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+), CBS Radio’s sports/talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” is flat at 3.0 (6+), but the Washington Nationals’ flagship dips from #14 to #17. This is the sixth straight month that its main competitor, Red Zebra Broadcasting’s WTEM “ESPN 980” (1.9, #17, “Holiday” 2016, 6+), does not appear in print. Finishing back-to-back in June 2017 are urban AC rivals, Howard University-owned WHUR, up or flat for the fourth consecutive sweep for a +1.8 (5.7- 6.0 – 7.0 – 7.5 – 7.5, #3 for the sixth time in a row, 6+) and Radio One’s WMMJ “Majic 102.3” (5.3 – 5.7, +.4, fifth to fourth, 6+). Down in five consecutive sweeps resulting in a combined -2.3 (6.1 – 5.9 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 3.8, 6+), WMMJ bounced back with three straight increases for a collective +1.6 (3.8 – 4.4 – 4.9 – 5.4, 6+), but that streak concluded in March.
2) Boston – The two-share lead (6+) Beasley Media Group-owned classic hits-oldies WROR “Boston’s Classic Hits” enjoyed in May over adult contemporary sibling WMJX “Magic 106.7 – Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites” has
been sliced to just three-tenths as “Magic 106.7” logs a +1.1 (7.0, third to second, 6+), while “Boston’s Classic Hits” falters by six-tenths (7.9 – 7.3, 6+). Even so, WROR remains at #1 for 
the sixth successive sweep. As far as “Magic” is concerned, the 7.0 (6+) it displays in June 2017 ends a repetitive trending pattern of 5.6 – 5.9 – 5.6 – 5.9 (6+) and is its strongest 6+-share since 13.4 in “Holiday” 2016. The market leader for 11 successive monthlies before being dislodged in December by “Magic,” WROR was +1.1 in December; -1.4 in “Holiday” 2016; +1.6 in January; +.8 in March; and -.8 in April. Two stations on opposite ends of the music spectrum – classical WCRB (2.1 – 2.8, #17 to #14, 6+) and iHeartMedia CHR WXKS-FM “Kiss 108 – Boston’s #1 Hit Music Station” – each pick up seven-tenths. This is the fourth successive increase for “Kiss” netting a cumulative +1.3 (5.6 – 5.7 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.9, 6+), but it moves from second to third. Meanwhile, WCRB notches its best 6+-stat since last November’s 3.2. Unchanged at #13, 6+), WXKS-FM’s direct competitor – CBS Radio’s WODS “Amp 103.3” – loses one-tenth in consecutive sweeps (3.1 – 3.0 – 2.9, 6+), immediately after posting four successive positive monthlies which netted four-tenths (2.7 – 2.7 – 2.8 – 2.9
– 3.1, 6+). After losing a cumulative nine-tenths in four straight down or flat trends (3.0 – 2.6 – 2.5 – 2.1 – 2.1, 6+), Entercom news/talk WRKO gains two-tenths to 2.3 (6+), but actually backslides from a tie at #17 to #18. It is linked there with urban AC cluster-mate WKAF “97.7 – Boston’s #1 For R&B,” which is up or flat for the fifth consecutive time (.9 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3, #19 to #18, 6+). Not only is CBS Radio’s WBZ-FM without an increase for the fifth straight time for a combined loss of over two full-shares (5.8 – 5.4 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.5 – 3.5, 6+), “The Sports Hub” drops from eighth to tenth and is below a four-share (6+) for the first time in exactly two 
years (3.6, June 2015). Bouncing back from May’s -.1 with a gain of three-tenths (4.7 – 5.0, 6+), Entercom owned/Boston Red Sox flagship WEEI-FM shifts from seventh back to fifth. Trending 3.7 – 3.7 – 3.9 – 3.8 (6+), Beasley Media Group rhythmic hot AC WBQT “Hot 96.9” sputters by eight-tenths to 3.0, sliding from #11 to #12. After three straight improvements that netted a +1.1 since February (4.0 – 4.1 – 4.3 – 5.1, 6+), co-owned WKLB “Country 102.5” regresses by six-tenths to 4.5 (6+), falling from fifth to seventh. In May, “Country 102.5” crossed the five-share threshold (6+) for the first time since last September’s 5.0. Cross-town format challenger, iHeartMedia’s WBWL “101.7 The Bull,” picks up two-tenths to 2.4 (6+), yet slips from #15 to #17. With a February 2017 to May 2017 6+-line of 5.7 – 5.8 – 5.7 – 5.6, WBZ-AM is off by one-half share to 5.1 (6+), however, the CBS Radio news/talk hybrid carries on in fourth-place.
3) Miami – As Cox Media Group mainstream CHR WFLC “Hits 97.3” loses two-tenths in successive sweeps (4.7 – 4.5 – 4.3, 6+) dropping from sixth to seventh, iHeartMedia-owned and similarly-programmed WHYI “Y-100 Miami’s #1 Hit Music Station” erases May’s -.4 with a +.4 (3.7 – 4.1, 6+) to climb from tenth to eighth. The four-tenths
decrease in May halted at four WHYI’s successive string of up or flat trends that netted an overall gain of one-half share (3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 4.1, 6+), while April’s 4.7 was the strongest 6+-performance for “Hits 97.3” since 4.9 last September. Having wiped out April’s one-half share loss with a +.7 in May to advance from second to first (7.2 – 6.7 – 7.4, 6+), Cox 
Media Group urban AC WHQT “Hot 105” adds three-tenths to 7.7 (6+) and repeats at #1; 7.7 is the station’s strongest 6+-stat since last July’s 8.0. Down or flat in six straight sweeps for a combined -1.9 (8.2 – 8.0 – 7.2 – 7.1 – 6.4 – 6.4 – 6.3, 6+), “Hot 105” notched a one-half share gain in “Holiday” 2016 but was off by seven-tenths in January. For the fifth time in the last nine survey periods, iHeartMedia Spanish contemporary WZTU “Tu 94.9 FM – Donde Viven Tus Hits” puts up a 3.6 (6+) as it climbs from #12 to #11. Meanwhile, Spanish Broadcasting System’s similarly-programmed WRMA “Ritmo 95.7 – Cubatón y Más” has lost one full-share via three straight declines (3.9 – 3.3 – 3.2 – 2.9, 6+) and tumbles from #13 to #16. Within 3.7 – 4.0 range (6+) since the “Holiday” 2016 report, co-owned WBGG “Big 105.9 – South Florida’s Classic Rock” falters by six-tenths to 3.2 and exits the top ten (#9 to #12). It is the lowest 6+-share for “Big” since May 2016 (3.2 as well). After picking up nine-tenths via three upticks in succession (3.3 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.2, 6+), CBS Radio rhythmic CHR WPOW “Power 96 – Miami’s Party Station” is off by three-tenths to 3.9 (6+), slipping from eighth to tenth. Tied at #14, each with 3.0 (6+), are Univision Radio Spanish tropical WRTO “Mix 98.3” (-.1, #15 in May, 6+) and Spanish Broadcasting System counterpart WXDJ “106.6 El Zol” (+.1, #16 in May, 6+); “El Zol” pulls the plug on three straight decreases that yielded a -1.2 (4.1 – 3.4 – 3.0 – 2.9, 6+). Either flat or (modestly) up in each of the last seven sweeps for a gain of seven-tenths (1.5 – 1.6 – 1.6 – 1.7 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.2 – 2.2, 6+), Entercom’s WSFS “104.3 The Shark – South Florida’s Alternative” falters by three-tenths to 1.9, moving from #19 to #20. Without an increase since last November (1.4 – 1.4 – 1.3 – 1.3 – 1.1 – 1.1 – 1.1 – .9 – .9, 6+), Spanish news/talk WWFE “670 AM – La Ponderosa” finishes at #26.
4) Detroit – Immediately after flaunting a substantial +1.5 in May, iHeartMedia urban AC WMXD tacks on another nine-tenths (4.0 – 5.5 – 6.4, 6+) as “Mix 92.3 – Detroit’s R&B and Throwbacks” rockets from #6 all the way to #1 with its most potent 6+-showing since a 6.5 in “Holiday” 2014. Steady at #15, Radio One’s similarly-formatted
WDMK “105.9 Kiss-FM,” is a collective -.7 in May and June (4.0 – 3.4 – 3.3, 6+). Knocked out of 
the top spot following five successive months there is CBS Radio all-news WWJ, off for the third straight time for a combined -1.8 (7.4 – 6.5 – 6.3 – 5.6, 6+) and trading places with “Mix” at #6. The 7.4 that WWJ garnered in March through a +.9 marked the first time it crossed the seven-share level (6+) since February 2016, when it reached 7.5 (6+). Without an increase in each of the last three survey periods for a -.7 (5.5 – 5.3 – 4.8 – 4.8, 6+), Beasley Media Group-owned WCSX “94.7 – Detroit’s Classic Rock” answers with a one-half share increase to 5.3, inching up from eighth to seventh. Up three-tenths to 5.0 (6+), cluster-mate WRIF “Rocks Detroit” (tenth to eighth) applies the brakes to four consecutive decreases that accounted for a -1.2 (5.9 – 5.4 – 5.2 – 4.8 – 4.7, 6+). Locked on 3.3 in February, March, and April, CBS Radio CHR WDZH “Amp 98.7” posted a +.6 in May, but coughs up nearly twice that margin in June (3.3 – 3.9 – 2.8, -1.1, 6+), freefalling from #11 to #17. In May, WDRQ regained one-tenth of April’s -.5, but “93.1 Nash FM” sputters by one-half share (3.4 – 2.9 – 3.0 – 2.5, 6+); the Cumulus Media country outlet nonetheless carries on at #18.
5) Seattle – The winning ways continue for KNKX “Your Connection to Jazz, Blues and NPR News,” which is without a decrease for the sixth successive sweep. Nearly doubling its 6+-share in that period (2.6 – 3.0 – 3.8 – 3.9 – 4.1 – 4.1 – 4.9, 6+), KNKX cruises from #9 to a three-way tie at #5. Within 2.1 – 2.5 range (6+) in each of the last eight ratings
periods, Hubbard’s KVRQ “Rock 98.9 – Everything That Rocks” hauls out a +.7 to 2.8 (6+) 
and cracks the top twenty at #17. Following three straight gains that accounted for a +1.0 (6.8 – 7.1 – 7.2 – 7.8, 6+), mainstream CHR sibling KQMV “MOViN 92.5 – All the Hits” returned 90% of that increase in April (6.9, -.9, 6+). Having bounced back in May with a +.5 to 7.4 (6+), KQMV is steady at 7.4 (6+) and finishes at #1 for the sixth consecutive time. Entering the “Holiday” 2016 ratings period, “MOViN 92.5” was on top for 12 straight sweeps but gave way to adult contemporary cluster-mate KRWM “Warm 106.9” and regained the lead in January. As for “Warm,” it surrenders May’s half-share increase – and one-tenth more – (5.1 – 5.6 – 5.0, -.6, 6+) but continues at #4. May’s +.5 stymied four successive sweeps without an increase that nearly sliced KRWM’s 6+-share in half since the “Holiday” report (10.9 – 5.6 – 5.3 – 5.1 – 5.1, 6+). Off by six-tenths as well is iHeartMedia CHR KPWK “Power 93.3 – Seattle’s New #1 for Hit Music,” which had recorded three straight positive trends netting nine-tenths (2.5 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.4, 6+). At 2.8 (6+),
“Power” slumps from #13 to #17. Unchanged at #11, Bonneville news/talk KIRO-FM adds one-tenth to 3.6 (6+), thus halting at four its successive streak of losses that produced a -2.2 (5.7 – 5.1 – 4.8 – 4.3 – 3.5, 6+). May’s 3.5 was the lowest 6+-share for KIRO-FM in nearly three years (3.8, 6+, July 2014). A gain of one-half share lifts similarly-formatted cluster-mate KTTH (#20 to #19) to 2.7, its strongest 6+-performance since last August (2.9). Returning from eighth back to ninth, CBS Radio adult hits KJAQ “96.5 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” has its consecutive string of up or flat trends that generated a +1.5 in that stretch (2.9 – 3.3 – 3.3 – 3.5 – 3.9 – 4.4, 6+) end at five as Seattle’s version of “Jack” drops four-tenths to 4.0 (6+).
6) Phoenix – A combined +1.4 via four straight progressive trends (4.2 – 4.3 – 4.4 – 4.9 – 5.6, 6+), iHeartMedia hot AC KMXP “Mix 96.9 – Today’s Best Music Mix” climbs from fourth to third and notches its highest 6+-share in exactly 
three years (5.8, June 2014). Owing to seven straight up or flat trends (2.3 – 2.5 – 2.7 – 3.0 – 3.1 – 3.1 – 3.4 – 3.7, 6+), Hubbard-owned KDKB “Alt 93.3 Arizona’s Alternative” is a cumulative +1.4 and enters the top ten (#12 to #10). Trending 4.1 – 4.4 – 4.7 – 4.8 – 4.7 (6+) since January, CBS Radio classic hits-oldies KOOL improves by six-tenths to 5.3 (fifth to fourth, 6+). Even though
Entravision regional Mexican KLNZ is without a loss for the fifth time in a row for a +1.2 (1.8 – 1.8 – 2.2 – 2.2 – 2.8 – 3.0, 6+), “La Tricolor 103.5” backslides from a four-way logjam at #13 to #14. Dipping four-tenths in April (6.5 – 6.1, 6+), Hubbard’s KSLX shifted from a one-month stay at #1 to #2. By hanging out a +1.2 in May (6.1 – 7.3, 6+), “Classic Rock 100.7” returned to the top spot and – albeit down three-tenths to 7.0 (6+) – it repeats at #1. When “Classic Rock 100.7” gained seven-tenths in March (5.8 – 6.5, 6+), and iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ faltered by one-half share (6.7 – 6.2, 6+), the impressive streak of KESZ reigning at #1 for 30 successive ratings periods concluded. Once again in the runner-up slot, KESZ is off four-tenths (7.2 – 6.8, 6+) and trails KSLX by two-tenths. Ups and downs continue for Hubbard-owned KUPD. In April, following three straight gains netting a +1.3 (4.0 – 4.4 – 4.8 – 5.3, 6+), “Arizona’s Real Rock” returned in full the one-half share it picked up in March; was +.8 in May; but surrenders six-tenths in June (4.8 – 5.6 – 5.0, 6+) to segue from third to fifth.
7) Minneapolis – The (6+) country share in the Twin Cities enjoys a +1.4 spike, thanks in equal part to iHeartMedia’s KEEY “K-102 Minnesota’s Country Station” (5.6 – 6.3, +.7, seventh to fourth, 6+) and CBS Radio–
owned KMNB “Buz’n” @ 102.9” (+.7, #12 to #9, 6+). This is the third straight gain for KMNB (3.7 – 4.0 – 4.1 – 4.8, 6+), yielding a +1.1. Stuck on 6.8 (6+) in April and May, iHeartMedia CHR KDWB “The Twin Cities’ #1 Hit Music Station” dials up a +.6 to 7.4 and finishes first for the third time in a row. The station it succeeded at #1 – Hubbard-owned KSTP-FM “KS-95 Today’s Variety” – is without an increase for the fifth successive sweep (7.7 – 7.6 – 7.3 – 6.7 – 6.6 – 6.6, 6+) and stays in the runner-up slot. In January, “KS-95” posted a +1.3, curtailing a lengthy dry spell in which the hot AC hadn’t had an increase since February 2016 (10.2 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.8 – 9.1 – 9.1 – 8.9 – 7.7 – 7.6 – 7.1 – 7.1 – 6.4, 6+). In those 11 straight sweeps of being either down or flat, “KS-95” was a combined -3.8. Format rival – iHeartMedia’s KTCZ “Cities 97” (steady at #12) – was +1.3 in January; followed with four consecutive
negative trends that produced a -1.4 (5.3 – 4.8 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.9, 6+); but adds four-tenths in June (4.3, 6+). “Cities 97” was a combined -1.2 in December and “Holiday” 2016 (5.2 – 4.6 – 4.0, 6+). Flat and up (slightly) in each of the past three ratings periods (4.8 – 4.8 – 4.8 – 5.0, 6+), CBS Radio news/talk WCCO erodes by -1.3 to 3.7 (6+) and departs the top ten (#10 to #13). The last time WCCO fell below a four-share (6+) was exactly two years ago (3.8, June 2015). Regressing by one-half share each are adult hits sibling KZJK “104.1 Jack FM – Playing What We Want” (5.7 – 5.2, sixth to eighth, 6+) and University of Northwestern St. Paul contemporary Christian KTIS-FM “Twin Cities’ Christian Radio” (5.3 – 4.8, flat at #9, 6+).
8) San Diego – Advancing from #15 to #13, Media Sports de Mexico classic hits-oldies XPRS-FM “Max 105.7 – San Diego’s Throwback Station” is +1.3 as the result of five straight up or flat trends (1.8 – 1.8 – 2.0 – 2.3 – 3.0 – 3.1, 
6+). At this time last month, Entercom adult contemporary KXSN “Sunny 98.1 – Better Music for a Better Workday” forfeited April’s +.7 in its entirety (5.3 – 6.0 – 5.3, 6+), causing it to exit the top spot which it held for the first time since December. A June spike of +.9 though returns “Sunny” from second to first (5.3 – 6.2, 6+), with 6.2 its most potent 6+-share since last May’s 6.6. Prior to April, “Sunny” had been within 5.1 – 5.9 range (6+) the previous 11 sweeps. Powered by an April increase of seven-tenths, KOGO rocketed from eighth to second and, with a +.3 to 5.6 (6+), it
advanced to #1 in May. The iHeartMedia news/talk outlet, however, returns May’s +.3 (5.3 – 5.6 – 5.3, 6+) and shifts from first to fourth. Notching gains of one-half share each are “Sunny” cluster-mate KSON “New Country,” up for the third time in a row (4.9 – 5.1 – 5.2 – 5.7, fourth to second, 6+); iHeartMedia hot AC KMYI “Star 94.1 – San Diego’s Best Music Variety” (4.8 – 5.3, sixth to fourth, 6+); and Univision Radio regional Mexican KLNV “Que Buena 106.5” (4.5, tenth to sixth, 6+), which ends three straight down or flat trends that yielded a -.7 (4.7 – 4.7 – 4.3 – 4.0, 6+). Conversely, sputtering by one-half share is urban-rhythmic oldies XHRM “Magic 92.5” (5.0 – 4.5, 6+), which slides from fifth to sixth. In a recap of San Diego-area outlets with similar call letters and formats, iHeartMedia mainstream CHR KHTS “Channel 93.3 – San Diego’s #1 Hit Music Station” is a combined -1.2 in three successive decreases (5.4 – 5.2 – 4.8 – 4.2, sixth to eighth, 6+), while XHTZ “Z-90.3 Today’s Hit Music” is right behind “Channel 93.3” (4.2 – 4.1, -.1, eighth to ninth, 6+). Without an increase for the fifth straight ratings period, Entercom-owned KBZT “94.9 San Diego’s Alternative” is -1.2 (2.7 – 2.4 – 2.2 – 1.7 – 1.5 – 1.5, 6+) but remains at #22.
9) Denver – Logging its seventh successive increase accounting for a +2.3 (3.4 – 3.6 – 4.1 – 4.2 – 4.7 – 5.2 – 5.5 – 5.7, 6+) iHeartMedia triple A KBCO “World Class Rock” (steady at #3) has its best 6+-showing since 6.1 in September 
2015. Within 3.0 – 3.8 range for the 19th successive survey period (3.3 – 3.6, +.3, 6+), co-owned KBPI “Rocks the Rockies” inches up from #15 to #14. After being down in each of the last four sweeps for a -1.2 (4.4 – 4.3 – 4.2 – 3.7 – 3.2, 6+) Educational Media Foundation contemporary Christian KLDV “Positive & Encouraging K-Love” adds one-tenth to 3.3 (#16 to #15, 6+). In addition to rebounding from May’s -.4 with a +.6 (6.4 – 6.0 – 6.6, 6+), KYGO returns to #1. In May, the Bonneville country outlet shifted from the top spot after three straight months there and slipped to #2. It has a seven-tenths advantage over
Entercom classic rock KQMT “99.5 The Mountain” (6.2 – 5.9, -.3, first to second, 6+), which progressed from third to first in May by recapturing the seven-tenths it lost in back-to-back declines since February (6.2 – 5.9 – 5.5, 6+). Posting improvements of one-half share each are KSE Radio Ventures classic hits-oldies KXKL “Kool 105” (4.1 – 4.6, ninth to seventh, 6+) and hot AC sibling KIMN (3.8 – 4.3, #12 to #9 6+). The wild ride 
continues for Bonneville’s KKFN “Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan,” whose seven most recent fluctuations are -.5 (“Holiday” 2016); +1.1 (January); -.7 (February); +.6 (March); -.5 in April; +.5 in May; and now -.7 in June (3.9 – 3.2, #11 to #16, 6+). A loss of six-tenths in November halted four successive up or flat trends which netted two full-shares (2.9 – 2.9 – 3.5 – 3.6 – 4.9, 6+). This past October’s 4.9 represents the most potent 6+ showing for KKFN under PPM methodology. Without an increase for the fifth straight time accounting for a -2.4 (7.1 – 6.1 – 5.5 – 5.5 – 5.2 – 4.7, 6+), iHeartMedia’s KTCL “Modern Rock – Channel 93-3” slides from fifth to sixth. Regressing by one-half share as well is Colorado Public Radio’s KCFR (4.5 – 4.0, seventh to tenth, 6+).
10) Tampa – Answering March’s -1.0 with a modest +.2 in April (9.7 – 8.7 – 8.9, 6+), Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV replicates May’s +.6, thus “Lite Favorites” is up for the third straight sweep (8.7 – 8.9 – 9.5 –
10.1). Not only does WDUV return to double-digits (6+) for the first time since its 12.7 in “Holiday” 2016, it finishes first for the 57th successive ratings period. The 8.7 “Lite Favorites” recorded in March was its lowest 6+-stat since November 2015’s 8.5. By hanging out a one-half share increase to 4.0 (6+), University of South Florida news/talk WUSF applies the breaks to three straight sweeps without an increase that accounted for a loss of seven-tenths (4.2 – 3.9 – 3.5 – 3.5 – 3.5, 6+) and progresses from #13 to #10. Boasting five straight increases for a cumulative +1.7 (6.4 – 6.9 – 7.1 – 7.5 – 7.6 – 8.1, 6+), Cox Media Group’s WXGL “Classic Hits 107-3 The Eagle” now erodes by one full-share to 7.1 (6+) but is in the runner-up slot for the eighth straight time. Following five consecutive positive trends for a cumulative full-share increase (5.5 – 5.6 – 6.0 – 6.1 – 6.2 – 6.5, 6+), “The Eagle” was down by one-tenth in “Holiday” 2016. A collective +1.7 in three successive positive trends (3.9 – 4.5 – 5.4 – 5.6, 6+), Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WRBQ “Tampa Bay’s Q-105” lost two-tenths in April and drops one half-share for the second consecutive sweep (5.4 – 4.9 – 4.4, 6+), slipping from fifth to seventh; 5.6 in March was the best 6+-performance for “Q-105” since last September (5.6, as well). Unchanged at #6, co-owned WQYK “99.5 Tampa Bay’s New Country Hits,” which had been without a loss in each of the past three monthlies for a +.6 (4.2 – 4.7 – 4.7 – 4.8, 6+), drops two-tenths to 4.6 (6+). Off by one-half share as well is adult contemporary cluster-mate WPBB “B-98.7 Today’s Hits, Yesterday’s Favorites” (1.4 – .9, #22, 6+).
11) Baltimore – Having finished second for four consecutive ratings periods, Radio One urban contemporary WERQ shifted to third in April, but with a gain of one-half share in May (7.5 – 8.0, 6+) “Q-92 Jams” caught co-owned 
urban AC WWIN “Magic 95.9” at #1. The tie is broken in June though as “Q-92 Jams” flashes a +.7 to 8.7, while “Magic” improves by four-tenths to 8.4, settling for second-place. Notwithstanding the downward move, “Magic” curtails at four its consecutive string of downward trends that accounted for a loss of nine-tenths (8.9 – 8.8 – 8.6 – 8.3 – 8.0, 6+). It had been on top the past five monthlies. Without an increase in six consecutive sweeps for a cumulative -1.7 since June 2016 (9.8 – 8.6 – 8.5 – 8.5 – 8.4 – 8.4 – 8.1, 6+), “Magic” added one-tenth in “Holiday” 2016 and seven-tenths in January 2017 to march from third to first. Prior to gaining four-tenths in March, WERQ was down or flat since December (8.5 – 8.3 – 8.3 – 7.3, 6+); February 2017’s 7.3 was its lowest 6+-share since the 7.3 it recorded in March 2016. Sputtering by seven
-tenths (5.4 – 4.7, 6+), CBS Radio sports/talk and Baltimore Orioles flagship WJZ-FM “105.7 The Fan” slips from sixth to eighth. Following an impressive April 2017 – May 2017 gain of +1.2, iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR “102.7 Jack FM Playing What We Want for Baltimore” returns one-half share (4.4 – 5.6 – 5.1, 6+) to fall from fifth to sixth; 5.6 was the best 6+-performance for “Jack” in more than two years (6.1, 6+, March 2015). Without a loss in each of the past five survey periods including a similar (to WQSR) April 2017 – May 2017 gain of +1.2 (3.4 – 3.6 – 3.7 – 3.8 – 3.8 – 5.0, 6+), CBS Radio hot AC-turned-CHR WWMX “106.5 Baltimore’s Best Mix” dips by two-tenths to 4.8 (6+) yet improves from eighth to seventh.
12) St. Louis – An increase of +1.2 propels Emmis’ KSHE (third to second) from 6.7 to 7.9, its strongest 6+-stat since last November’s 8.6. Despite a decrease of two-tenths (8.4 – 8.2, 6+), iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies outlet 
KLOU advances from second to first. After three successive sweeps as the market’s pacesetter, KLOU assumed the runner-up slot in April. A combined +1.3 in October and November (6.4 – 6.9 – 7.7, 6+), it floundered by -1.6 in December; bounced back with a +3.8 in “Holiday” 2016; but was -2.8 in January. Before October’s +.5, KLOU had been down or flat the previous four sweeps (7.4 – 7.4 – 6.7 – 6.5 – 6.4, 6+) for a net loss of one full-share. It supplants CBS Radio
news/talk KMOX, which jumped from fifth to first in April. The St. Louis Cardinals flagship more than doubled its 6+-share in five straight increases (4.1 – 5.0 – 5.1 – 6.2 – 8.4 – 8.5, 6+), before eroding in June by -1.2 to 7.3 (6+) and segueing to #3. Five straight declines by KEZK accounted for a cumulative loss of over seven full-shares (11.1 – 5.5 – 4.6 – 4.3 – 4.1 – 4.0, 6+) but KMOX’ adult contemporary sibling picks up one-tenth to 4.1 (6+) and climbs from #12 to #10. Prior to January’s decline, KEZK put together four consecutive progressive trends that netted a +6.8 (4.3 – 4.6 – 4.9 – 5.8 – 11.1) and it was #1 in “Holiday” 2016. Following a May increase of six-tenths, Radio One urban contemporary WHHL “Hot 104.1” surrenders nine-tenths (4.4 – 5.0 – 4.1, 6+) to slide from eighth to tenth. May’s +.6 nearly erased WHHL’s collective -.7 since February (5.1 – 4.6 – 4.4, 6+). Unlisted for the sixth consecutive month are Gateway Creative Broadcasting-owned contemporary Christian KLJY “99.1 Joy! FM” (4.5, #9, “Holiday” 2016, 6+) and co-owned, similarly-formatted KLJY-HD2 (.2, #20, “Holiday” 2016, 6+).
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Millennials Schmillennials! Media consultant Holland Cooke presents what he calls an “instant sales meeting” for managers and AEs charged with marketing talk radio. It’s titled, “Grey Is Gold,” and offers some eye-popping facts about the value of upper-end Baby Boomers to retailers. Cooke notes that recent studies indicate fully one-third of 18-34-year-olds have no AM/FM radio at home and that radio’s most habitual users are Baby Boomers. Watch this video and see Cooke’s list of data points that can arm radio reps to pitch this demographic with a ton of disposable income. Then, share it with your sales staff. View the video in the Talkers TV box in the upper right-hand of this page or click here.
Trey Radel Returns to Mornings on ‘92.5 Fox News’ in Naples-Fort Myers. Prior to running for congress – and winning – Trey Radel worked in radio and television in the Naples-Fort Myers market. In fact, he left the
morning show gig at Sun Broadcast Group’s WSFX “92.5 Fox News” to run for office. But once in Washington, Radel had a run-in with the law, getting busted buying cocaine. He gave up his seat, cleaned up and started a media consulting firm. The opportunity to get back into radio came up when WSFX morning host Drew Steele resigned to take a position with KSL-TV, Salt Lake City. Radel did fill-in work this summer before being officially named the new morning host last week. Read the Naples Daily News account here.
GCN to Continue Providing Affiliates with Dr. Joy Browne Show Until Replacement is Set – Special Series of Tribute Shows Begins this Friday (9/9). Because of the “timeless” nature of most of her shows, Genesis Communications Network (GCN) has announced that it will continue providing the large roster of the late Dr. Joy Browne’s affiliates with re-runs and “best of” programs from the iconic talk show host’s extensive archives for the next two weeks, punctuated by a series of three live “tribute” shows. The tribute shows will be
hosted and organized by her close friend, TALKERS founder Michael Harrison. The Dr. Joy Browne program airs weekdays between 12:00 noon and 3:00 pm ET. The special tribute shows will run live on Friday, September 9 through Tuesday, September 13 presenting a combination of radio industry guests and listener calls discussing the life, career and work of the legendary broadcaster. Between Wednesday, September 14 and Friday, September 16, GCN will provide the affiliates with more archival Dr. Joy Browne content. After that, beginning Monday, September 19, the time slot will indefinitely be hosted live by Michael Harrison until a permanent replacement is named. Upon agreeing to keep the seat warm, Harrison states, “It is an honor to serve as interim host of Joy’s program. I deeply believe in her mission and the importance of keeping generalist, non-specifically political talk programming alive within the context of ‘news/talk’ during the daytime hours. I will do my best to provide her wonderful affiliates and audience with a meaningful listening experience within that time-honored radio tradition.” Harrison says he has cleared his schedule during that time slot for at least the rest of 2016 but will step out during that time frame if and when “a permanent replacement is named.” Simultaneously, GCN will be continuing to offer Dr. Joy Browne’s radio show, podcasts and archives to radio stations and listeners worldwide on a separate channel.
GCN Head Ted Anderson Expresses Deep Sentiments About the Passing of Dr. Joy Browne. In a statement to TALKERS, GCN founder and CEO Ted Anderson says, “I started listening to talk radio in the 1980s. Over my tenure I became a fan of Click & Clack [Tom and Ray Magliozzi], Bill Nye, and of course the beloved Dr. Joy Browne. As a business entrepreneur, it was natural for me to market my wares over the platform of talk
radio. Developing the Genesis Communications Network became the best solution for a long term sustainable platform to reach a very loyal listening audience. As a radio fan iconic figures like Dr. Joy Browne were larger than life. Though Dr. Joy’s work and ethics far exceeded all expectations, having the chance to know her personally, I found a very down to earth non-egotistical, emotionally secure and may I add sexy woman. One could say that there are milestones business owners can refer to referencing success. Having the honor of producing the Dr. Joy Browne show will always be on the top of my list of accomplishments. My staff always found it to be a pleasure to work with Dr. Joy and we all are heartbroken from her sudden departure. In Dr. Joy’s honor, gcnlive.com will be continuing to offer her radio show, podcasts and archives to radio stations and listeners worldwide. Dr. Joy, I’ll always miss you.” Dr Joy Browne’s radio program was the longest running of its kind in syndication, airing on over 100 stations across the country. Her show offered millions of devoted listeners compassionate, practical and substantive advice on issues ranging from relationships and marriage, finance, work and career. Dr. Joy has won numerous awards for her work including the American Psychological Association’s President’s Award, the TALKERS magazine award for Best Female Talk Show Host (two years in a row), #10 on the list of the 25 Greatest Radio Talk Show Hosts of All Time, and she has been named one of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America (The Heavy Hundred) every year since that list’s inception the early 1990s.
Fox News Settles with Gretchen Carlson; Issues Apology. Numerous media reports are indicating that Fox News has settled the sexual harassment suit brought against its former chief Roger Ailes by on-air personality
Gretchen Carlson for the sum of $20 million. The organization also issued an apology via a statement that reads, in part, “During her tenure at Fox News, Gretchen exhibited the highest standards of journalism and professionalism. She developed a loyal audience and was a daily source of information for many Americans. We are proud that she was part of the Fox News team. We sincerely regret and apologize for the fact that Gretchen was not treated with the respect and dignity that she and all of our colleagues deserve.” Meanwhile, another former Fox News personality – Andrea Tantaros – is suing the organization for sexual harassment, as well. However, Fox News attorneys filed to move the Tantaros suit to arbitration and, in doing so, called her an opportunist who is using the Carlson suit to obscure her alleged breach of contract.
Greta Van Susteren Abruptly Exits Fox News Channel. This morning’s surprise announcement by Fox News that 14-year Fox News Channel fixture Greta Van Susteren has exited the organization immediately comes 
as a shock to the public and industry insiders alike. In a press release, Fox News co-presidents Bill Shine and Jack Abernethy praised Van Susteren for her contributions to the network. Separately, Fox News’ Howard Kurtz is reporting that after Roger Ailes was ousted as Fox investigated allegations of sexual harassment against him, Van Susteren asked to renegotiate her contract and, when that didn’t happen, she exercised the “key man” clause in her contract that allowed her to leave if Ailes left. Brit Hume is assuming the hosting of the 7:00 pm ET “On the Record” program.
The Joy of Bundling. Radio sales maven Al Herskovitz writes today about a prescription for making those well-produced but oft-neglected weekend specialty shows profitable for the producers. Sure, they serve the stations well enough. They provide quality weekend programming that address lifestyle topics. But, too often the producers have to scrape just to get by. Enter: bundling. Read Al’s piece here.
The Presidential Race, The Labor Day Holiday, G20 Summit, Philippines’ Duterte Assaults Obama, Ongoing Kaepernick ‘Anthem’ Protest Issue, Saudi Arabia-Russia Oil Agreement, Merkel Party Defeat, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton; the Labor Day holiday; the G20 Summit meeting in Hangzhou, China, including President Obama’s meeting with Vladimir Putin regarding Syria; Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte’s verbal assault on President Obama; the ongoing controversy over Colin Kaepernick’s National Anthem protests; the agreement between Vladimir Putin and Saudi Arabia to stabilize oil prices; Germany’s Angela Merkel suffers defeat as her party loses in weekend elections and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend.
Odds & Sods. It’s football season again and Westwood One celebrating its 30th season as the exclusive network radio partner for the National Football League. It’s providing play-by-play coverage of the NFL’s national regular season package of primetime games and all postseason games, including Super Bowl LI. WW1 says that in addition to those 70 contests, it will broadcast 17 Sunday afternoon doubleheaders, resulting in a record-high 104 total NFL game broadcasts this season. The season kicks off this Thursday with the Panthers at the Broncos…..Satcaster SiriusXM is offering subscribers coverage of the 2016 NFL season, featuring live broadcasts of every game, plus in-depth NFL talk on its NFL Radio channel. SiriusXM’s NFL schedule will also include multiple Spanish-language broadcasts on SiriusXM channel 157 each week, including all primetime games on Sunday and Monday nights, the Thursday Night Kickoff game, Thanksgiving Day games, and select Sunday afternoon games during the regular season. Listeners will also get Spanish-language broadcasts for every playoff game.
