Eric Rhoads' Blog
Bill White Tapped As Greater Media/Charlotte OM
Bill White has been promoted to OM of Greater Media/Charlotte, overseeing Talkers WBT-AM & FM and AC WLNK-FM. Additionally, Carl East becomes PD of WBT-AM & FM.
Fisher Communications Sees Sharp Radio Decline
Now that it no longer airs the Seattle Mariners, Fisher Communications saw radio revenues decline 49 percent in the third quarter, to $6 million from $11.7 million. Excluding the Mariners contract, Fisher's radio revenues were down 21 percent year-over-year.
BMW Cuts Price For Sirius Package
BMW has lowered the price of the Sirius factory option by more than 40 percent, to $350 from $595. A one-year subscription to the "Sirius Everything" package is still included.
Soechtig To Create Sales Operations Center For CCR
Chris Soechtig is named SVP of sales operations for Clear Channel Radio, responsible for creating a new "Sales Operations Center" that will focus on all facets of sales for Clear Channel sales teams. Soechtig moves up from director of sales for the CCR/Tampa cluster.
Dial Global Adds 'Baka Boyz All Star Hit Mix'
Dial Global launches a new three-hour weekend show for Top 40 radio, Baka Boyz All Star Hit Mix, with KKHH/Houston already on board.
CBS Radio Revenues Fall In Q3
CBS Radio's revenues were down 19 percent in the third quarter, to $318.9 million from $392.5 million a year ago. TV revenues were up 9 percent, to $2.27 billion from $2.08 billion.
Wilberding Named VP/Western Region Sales For Premiere
Jason Wilberding has joined Premiere Radio Networks as VP of Western region sales, based in Los Angeles. Wilberding was most recently national advertising director/GM for BrandX, part of the Los Angeles Times Media Group.
Smith Requests Waiver For Royalties Meet
NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith has written to House and Senate Judiciary Committee members to ask for an ethics waiver that will allow him to appear at a November 17 discussion on performance royalties. Smith was in the U.S. Senate until 2008, and is barred from lobbying Congress until he's been out of office for two years.
Salem Revenues Fall 10% In Q3
Salem Communications' total revenue fell 10.2 percent in the third quarter, to $48.9 million from $54.4 million. The company brought operating expenses down 20.8 percent, to $54.4 million from $68.7 million.
NPR, iBiquity Reach A Deal On HD Power Boost
NPR and iBiquity Digital have reached an agreement on managing a power upgrade for HD Radio that recommends a fourfold power increase. NPR and iBiquity plan to jointly present their recommendations to the FCC, and the NAB is applauding the deal.
Regent Broadcast Revenues Dip In Q3
Regent Communications' broadcast revenues were off 13.9 percent in the third quarter, to $21.8 million from $25.3 million, the company reported Thursday. Regent saw a net loss of $442,000 (1 cent per share) in Q3.
Beck Off The Air With Appendicitis
Premiere Radio Networks' Glenn Beck has had surgery to remove his appendix after becoming ill on the air during Wednesday's show. He's expected to be off the air for at least the rest of this week.
Sirius XM Revenues Up In Q3
Sirius XM Radio's pro forma revenues in the third quarter came in at 630 million million, up 3 percent from $613 million in Q3 2008. Pro forma subscription revenues were also up 3 percent, to $587 million from $572 million.
Mago Part Of FCC Policy Workshop
NAB EVP/General Counsel Jane Mago was among the panelists at an FCC policy workshop held today on media ownership -- one of a series kicking off the 2010 quadrennial ownership review. Mago said that the FCC should keep in mind that the public interest "is best served by permitting broadcasters to compete effectively in the digital multichannel marketplace."
Simmons Sells WFFX-AM/St. Louis
Entertainment Media Trust has agreed to buy Simmons Media's Sports WFFX-AM/St. Louis for $450,000.
Journal Broadcast Group CFO Kurtis To Retire
Journal Broadcast Group SVP/CFO Ron Kurtis has announced plans to retire in December. Journal Broadcast Group CEO Doug Kiel earlier said he'll retire at the end of the year.
Jacobs Media, Salkowitz Working On Jelli
Jacobs Media and consultant Joel Salkowitz will be working with Triton Media on the new, nationally syndicated Jelli radio program. Jelli uses a web-based game to let listeners control what's heard on the air.
Tribune Ends Employee Stock Plan
As its Chapter 11 proceedings roll on, Tribune Co. has told employees it's ending the employee stock option plan formed as part of the company's 2007 leveraged buyout, the Los Angeles Times reports.
WCHH/Baltimore Goes Top 40 As 'Z104'
Clear Channel's WCHH/Baltimore has made the move to Top 40 as "Z104.3." The former Alternative "Channel 104.3" is running 10,000 songs in a row commercial-free.
McMurray Tapped As CC/Sacramento FM OM
Jeff McMurray has joined Clear Channel/Sacramento as FM operations manager, overseeing Oldies KHYL, Hot AC KGBY, Classic Hits KHLX, and Adult Hits KQJK. McMurray has spent most of his long career in the Sacramento market.
Local Radio Freedom Act Backers Ask To Join Royalties Discussion
Reps. Gene Green and Mike Conaway (pictured), who introduced the Local Radio Freedom Act, which opposes performance royalties for radio, have written to House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers asking to be included in the upcoming discussion on the Performance Rights Act. Conyers and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy last month invited the NAB and MusicFirst to participate in the discussion, set for November 17.
Entravision Revenues Dip In Q3
Entravision Communications' revenues fell by 17 percent in the third quarter, to $50.8 million from $61 million. Net income was $673,000 (1 cent per share), compared to a net loss of $354.5 million ($3.98) in Q3 2008.
Parker Named OM For CC/San Francisco
Don Parker is joining Clear Channel/San Francisco as OM of the seven-station cluster, effective November 16. He's a former VP/Programming for NextMedia who's also worked in L.A., Phoenix, and Houston.
Cumulus Revenues Fall In Q3
Cumulus Media brought in $65.1 million in revenues in the third quarter, down 18.5 percent from $80 million in the same period last year. Cumulus brought its station operating expenses down by 21 percent in the quarter, to $40.2 million from $50.8 million, through staff cuts and other measures.
Forester Sets Up Shop In L.A.
Amir Forester, former SVP of public relations for Premiere Radio Networks, opens Los Angeles-based Forester Public Relations, with Phil Hendrie and Gabe Hobbs Media among her clients.
USRN Adds 'Roe Report'
United Stations Radio Networks adds "The Roe Report," a news and commentary feature with WLS/Chicago afternoon talker Roe Conn.
Fohr Invests In Eastlan
FMR Associates owner and President Bruce Fohr has become a partner in Eastlan Ratings with an investment in the Sammamish, WA-based ratings firm.
Time Profiles Larry Wilson
In a story headed "Rescuing Radio," Time magazine looks at the return of Citadel founder Larry Wilson to radio, characterizing his approach as taking radio "back to its local roots while at the same time keeping his company private and well capitalized." Wilson tells the magazine, "When you cut the costs out of this business, you cut the product. Then you don't have anything to distinguish you from iPods or anything."
Dickey Sets Positive Tone
Cumulus Media Chairman/CEO Lew Dickey said the company's Q3 results were a bit better than the pacing data provided in Q2, and he believes the industry "is going to come out of this cycle and continue to grow" -- though it will be a long while before radio is back to the all-time-high levels of 2006. He also noted that Cumulus is hiring, and will have 100 more sellers in place by the end of the year.
CCR's Total Traffic Network Signs Deals With Mazda, Aston Martin
Clear Channel Radio's Total Traffic Network announces some new deals: OEM agreements with automakers Mazda and Aston Martin, and a deal to provide updates for a new HD Radio-based device from Korean software manufacturer Cydle.
SNL Kagan Projects Online Revenue Growth
In updated projections, SNL Kagan sees radio's online revenue rising 12 percent in 2009, to $441 million, up from $394 million in 2008. The company is forecasting online revenue growth of 20 percent in 2010.
Study: Broadcast Radio Leads Among Audio Entertainment
A Nielsen-funded study by the Center for Research Excellence found that 90 percent of the adults observed were exposed to some form of audio media daily (excluding TV audio). Radio, said the study, "dominates all other forms" of audio media, reaching more than 77 percent of adults every day, with 109 minutes of daily listening -- and 79.2 percent of 18-34s, listening 104 minutes a day.
XM SkyDock Goes On Sale
Sirius XM's XM SkyDock, an in-car satellite radio that can be controlled by an iPhone or iPod touch, is now in stores.
Westwood One Ups Two To VP
Westwood One has promoted Mitch Glider to VP of engineering and Jeremy Schumacher to VP of broadcast information technology.
Form 323 Filing Deadline Set
The new Form 323 has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget, and the filing deadline has been set: December 15, with information current as of November 1. The FCC has revised Form 323 to ask for more detailed ownership information, and is launching a website to help answer broadcasters' questions.
FCC Sinks Pirate Cat Radio
The FCC recently sent long-running San Francisco pirate broadcaster Pirate Cat Radio a notice of apparent liability for $10,000, and the station has now gone off the air, though it is still operating as an Internet outlet.
Westwood One Adds Peter Greenberg Worldwide
Westwood One has added the weekly travel show Peter Greenberg Worldwide to its programming lineup.
CRB Names 2010 Country Hall Of Fame Inductees
Country Radio Broadcasters announces that Bill Bailey, Laurie DeYoung, and Rudy Fernandez will be the 2010 inductees into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame. Joining the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame will be Cy Blumenthal, Dan Halyburton, and Michael Hammond.
Huckabee Reaches 450 Affiliates
Citadel Media's "Huckabee Report," hosted by the former Arkansas Governor, has grown to 450 affiliates. The thrice-daily reports on the news and issues of the day are heard on News/Talk stations nationwide.
Entercom Reports Q3 Results
Entercom Communications net revenues in the third quarter came in at $99.8 million, down 14 percent from $115.6 a year ago. President/CEO David Field said that, in Q3, "business conditions stabilized and the company's cost-cutting measures continued to drive expenses lower."
Lawmakers Ask NAB, MusicFirst To Talk Royalties
Sen. Patrick Leahy and Rep. John Conyers have written to NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith and Joint Board Chair Steve Newberry and to MusicFirst Coalition representatives asking that they meet to negotiate an agreement on performance royalties for radio. NAB EVP Dennis Wharton said in a statement, "NAB is of course willing to talk with members of Congress on this issue and any issue that could negatively impact the ability of free and local hometown radio stations to serve our listeners."
Citadel Media Partners With Listener Driven Radio
Citadel Media has signed a deal to offer Listener Driven Radio, a "crowdcasting" platform developed by McVay Media's Mike McVay and Daniel Anstandig and Zapis Capital's Lee Zapis. LDR lets stations offer listeners variable levels of control over programming, and works with Facebook, MySpace, and 80 other social networks.
Richmond Radio Icon Harvey Hudson Dies At 88
Harvey Hudson, heard on Richmond, VA, radio for nearly 70 years, died Sunday at age 88. Hudson began his career in 1940 at age 18 and most recently hosted a Saturday show on Davidson Media's WLEE.
Study: Minority Ownership Stays Flat
A study by Catherine Sandoval of Santa Clara University's School of Law with the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council found that 7.24 percent of commercial radio stations are minority-owned, nearly flat with 7.78 percent in 2007. The study found that, as of the middle of this year, 324 minority owners control 815 full-power commercial stations.
Antenna Violations Draw $11,000 Fine
The FCC has issued an $11,000 forfeiture to Ely Radio for lighting and other violations related to the antenna for Oldies KWNA-AM/Winnemucca, NV.
Emmis Hits A Snag In Hungary
Emmis said in a filing with the SEC that the Hungarian National Radio and Television Board has awarded the national radio license held by Emmis' majority-owned subsidiary Slager Radio to another bidder. Emmis says it believes the award is illegal and will fight it in court if necessary.
Four CBS Stations Expand Via HD
CBS Radio is taking Sports WFAN-AM/New York, Alternative KROQ/Los Angeles, Sports WBZ-FM/Boston, and Hot AC KCSF/San Diego into new markets, in the form of HD Radio subchannels.
Dobson Leaving Radio Show, FOTF
Dr. James Dobson will be leaving the long-running Focus on the Family radio show at the end of February, and ending his affiliation with the organization. FOTF said Dobson's departure is the last step in a process that began in 2003.
KATZ-FM/St. Louis Is Stunting
Clear Channel's KATZ-FM, formerly Urban Beat 100.3 began stunting Friday as "Halloween 100.3," playing "Scary music for St. Louis," as the station website reported that the Beat format had moved to HD and online. KATZ has now rolled over to "Christmas 100.3" and will stay in holiday mode until a final format is announced.
Pulse Out, Party In New York
Mega Media's Dance-formated Pulse 87.7/New York went off the air Friday and JVC Media is moving in, bringing the Rhythmic programming from WPTY in Long Island to the city as Party 87.7.
Beasley Revenues Fall In Q3
Beasley Broadcast Group reports net revenues of $24.4 million in the third quarter, down 20.1 percent from Q3 2008. Station operating income was $6.9 million, down 24.1 percent from $9 million.
Chase Named PD At KKLZ/Vegas
Justin Chase, PD of Beasley's Country KYCE/Las Vegas, adds the same duties at Classic Hits clustermate KKLZ.
Talk Show Boot Camp Award Named For Ashwood
Talentmasters is dedicating its first Talk Show Boot Camp, set for next month in Atlanta, to late Fox Sports Radio head of programming Andrew Ashwood. The Ashwood Award for discovering and mentoring talent has been established.
HD Alliance Sets Holiday Campaign
The HD Radio Alliance is set to launch a new holiday campaign, telling radio listeners, "If you're not giving an HD Radio receiver, they're not hearing HD Radio broadcasts."
Premiere To Launch Two Shows With Nikki Sixx
Premiere Radio Networks is set to launch two Rock/Alternative-oriented shows in January: Sixx Sense With Nikki Sixx and The Side Show Countdown With Nikki Sixx, with the ex-Motley Crue bassist.
Jury Awards $16.6 Million In 'Wii' Contest Lawsuit
A Sacramento jury has awarded the family of Jennifer Strange $16.6 million, the Sacramento Bee reports. Strange's family sued Entercom and Entercom/Sacramento after she died of water intoxication a few hours after participating in a contest at Entercom's KDND/Sacramento.
New NAB Chief Smith Meets With Genachowski
NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith just started work, but he's already met with FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski to discuss broadcast ownership and diversity. The NAB said in an ex parte filing that Smith said ownership rules allow "reasonable combinations of media properties" so they can "continue to provide programming to meet the needs of the communities they serve." He also expressed support for tax incentives to encourage minority ownership.
Salamon Exits CRB
Ed Salamon has exited as executive director of Country Radio Broadcasters, a post he's held since 2002. Salamon is a radio vet who co-founded United Stations Radio Networks and served as president of programming at Westwood One.
CBS Interactive Chief Smith To Exit
CBS Interactive CEO Quincy Smith, who put together deals to buy CNET and Last.fm, among others, is leaving the company in January, but he'll continue his relationship with CBS through a new consultancy. Neil Ashe stays in place as CBS Interactive's president.
Analyst: More Cost-Cutting Ahead
Wells Fargo analyst Marci Ryvicker is predicting more cost-cutting across broadcast media as revenue declines continue in Q3.
Radio One Revenues Down In Q3
Radio One reports that its revenues fell 12 percent in the third quarter, to $75.5 million from $86.2 million in Q3 2008. Net income was $14.2 million (25 cents per share), compared to a net loss of $266.1 million ($2.28) a year ago.
Report: Good Days Ahead For Internet Radio?
The "Internet Radio Makes Waves" report from eMarketer says "terrestrial radio is in trouble," but sees a bright future for Internet radio, calling it "one of the fastest-growing online media categories."
Arbitron To Measure Akoo
Arbitron has signed a deal to provide audience estimates for out-of-home TV network Akoo, whose programming can be seen in malls and universities.
Genachowski Names Waldman Adviser For New Media Initiative
FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski has named Steven Waldman (pictured) to lead an agencywide initiative to assess the state of media in challenging economic times and help ensure a "vibrant media landscape." Waldman founded the successful Beliefnet, now owned by News Corp., and is a columnist for the Wall Street Journal.
Patrick Buys KSEV/Houston
Texas State Senator and talk host Dan Patrick is buying Liberman's KSEV/Houston, a station he's been LMA'ing for several years.
Judge: No Class Action Suit Over Concert Flooding
An Ionia County, MI, judge won't grant class action status to a suit against Clear Channel over flooding that damaged vehicles at a WBCT/Grand Rapids event, a local TV station reports.
KUFO 'Refuels,' Sets New Lineup
Alpha Broadcasting's Active Rock KUFO/Portland, OR, has completed its countdown and set its new lineup, led by Kidd Chris in mornings. KUFO has spent the last few days stunting on the air and online while the "mothership refueled."
New Radio Ink Podcast: Jeff Haley
RAB President/CEO Jeff Haley made news when he sent a survey to broadcasters, seeking information on RDS and urging greater adoption so radio can take advantage of opportunities to sell music from programming. In the latest Radio Ink podcast, Haley talks with Radio Ink Publisher Eric Rhoads about RDS, the PPM, the economy and advertisers, digital radio, and much more. Click the headline to listen.
Pre-Orders Taken For Book Honoring Severino
Pre-orders are being accepted now for Tom's Tricks, chronicling the famous pranks and practical jokes of late Emmis/Indianapolis VP/GM Tom Severino. Net proceeds from the book, written by Jon Quick, will go to the Riley Children's Foundation/Cancer Unit.
WIP, WFAN Team For Series Simulcast
CBS Radio's Sports WIP/Philadelphia and WFAN/New York are teaming up for World Series coverage, getting local fans pumped with a live simulcast on Wednesday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Moss Named National Public Media President/CEO
Stephen Moss has been named president and CEO of National Public Media, which handles corporate sponsorships for public radio and television.
Some Head To Athens For Canceled NAB Europe Event
The NAB announced the cancellation of the NAB European Radio Conference back in September, but Radio Ink hears that the word didn't get out to all the participants, and some went to Athens for the canceled show.
Radio One Sets Shareholders' Meeting
Radio One has scheduled its 2009 shareholders' meeting for December 16 at the Greenbelt Marriott in Greenbelt, MD. The meeting was delayed while Radio One dealt with SEC questions on some filings for 2008.
FlyCast Debuts ADdapt Platform
FlyCast has launched the Application Development and Deployment Platform, designed to let websites that focus on streaming audio or video be migrated to mobile apps that can be distributed in the Apple App Store and other smartphone stores.
MMTC Again Urges Rules Changes
The MMTC has submitted comments to the FCC in its earlier petition for rulemaking on what it calls "certain outdated and ineffective rules." The group says "archaic" engineering rules are barriers to entry, "effectively stifling diversity and impeding competition." The NAB is supporting some of the MMTC's proposals, and NPR has also weighed in.
KUFO Goes Into Stunt Mode
Alpha Broadcasting's KUFO/Portland, OR, went into stunt mode over the weekend, after dropping Rick Emerson in mornings and Cort & Fatboy in afternoons. Whether the Active Rock station is heading for a flip or is just reimaging isn't yet clear.
Radio Vet Rushton Takes Dolphins Job
Jim Rushton has joined the Miami Dolphins organization as SVP/corporate partnerships and integrated media. He's arriving after 16 years with Entercom, where he was most recently VP of sports sales and marketing.
Premiere Realigns RADAR Networks
Premiere Radio Networks is reconfiguring some of its RADAR networks, with the "Gem" networks going away in favor of new alignments including the tightly targeted Money & Smarts, Super Moms, and Top Market. Most of the new networks will also have companion networks that offer only 15-second spots.
Nokia Sues Apple, Saying iPhones Infringe Patents
Finnish cellphone giant Nokia has sued Apple, alleging that the hugely popular iPhone infringes on 10 Nokia patents related to wireless networks. Nokia has licensed the technologies to about 40 other handset makers but has been unable to reach a deal with Apple.
Baker Names Legal Advisers
FCC Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker has named Brad Gillen, Charles Mathias, and Christi Shewman to posts as her legal advisers.
Jackson Joins LFM/San Diego
Rick Jackson heads cross-country, joining Lincoln Financial Media/San Diego as SVP/GM. Jackson's been serving in the same post for Greater Media in Charlotte.
Pence Speaks Up For Talk Hosts
House Republican Conference Chair Mike Pence says it is "hogwash" to suggest that GOP leadership is worried about the effect of radio talkers like Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck on the party's image, Politico reports. Pence was responding to an earlier Politico story suggesting that Republicans are "growing worried" by "conservative activists and media personalities."
Univision Radio Manager Pleads Guilty To Embezzlement
Anselmo "Sam" Potter, former business manager for Univision Radio Florida, has pleaded guilty to embezzling more than half a million dollars. Potter stole the money over more than four years, forging checks and falsifying bank statements, the Miami Herald reports.
Haley Urges RDS
RAB President/CEO Jeff Haley tells broadcasters in an e-mail that the next opportunity for radio to "drive greater listener satisfaction" is through direct purchase of songs from programming. To that end, he writes, "It is imperative for our industry to more broadly adopt RDS RT + radio text functionality."
Invitation To Obama: Host Any SRN Show
In response to President Obama's comparison of Fox News to talk radio, Salem Radio Network has offered the president an opportunity to guest host any of its national shows. VP/News & Talk Programming Tom Tradup says the president "may not fully grasp the compelling nature of talk radio."
Corus Profits Rise In Q4
Canada's Corus Entertainment sees revenues move up 5 percent in its fiscal Q4, to $195.2 million CDN from $185.8 million, with net income rising to $18.7 million (23 cents per share) from $17.4 million. In radio, revenues fell by percent in the quarter, to $59.9 million from $68.5 million.
Fredberg Joins CBS In International Post
Luke Fredberg has joined CBS Corp. in the newly created post of director of international corporate communications, based in London. He'll develop strategies for all of CBS' international ventures, including Last.fm.
Another Extension For Sirius And XM Channel Leases
Sirius and XM get another extension, this time into February of next year, to implement a commitment to provide 4 percent of their audio channels to qualified entities. The commitment was part of the agreement that got the FCC's OK for the XM-Sirius merger.
Entercom Wins Again In KWOD Dispute
Entercom has won another round in the years-long dispute over its purchase of KWOD/Sacramento from Edward Stolz and Royce International, as the court rules that Royce forfeited its right to complain over interest accrued in a $25 million escrow account related to the sale.
Report: $250M In Political For Radio In '10
A new report from Wells Fargo Securities' Marci Ryvicker predicts $3.3 billion political spending in 2010, with 8 percent -- or about $250 million -- of that going to radio.
Panelists, Agenda Set For Ownership Workshops
Among the panelists scheduled for the FCC workshops that will begin the 2010 media ownership review are NAB EVP/General Counsel Jane Mago, NABOB Exec. Director James Winston, former FCC Commissioner Harold Furchtgott-Roth, and Media Access Project President/CEO Andy Schwartzman. The three workshops, set for November 2, 3, and 4 in DC, will include a policy group, a public interest panel, and a broadcasters and industry panel.
Reports: Google To Launch Music Service
Google is getting set to launch a search-based digital music business, say multiple reports. The new service will reportedly involve Google, LaLa, MySpace and MySpace's newly acquired iLike, and may offer on-demand streaming or paid downloads. TechCrunch says Google has spent the last several weeks making content deals, while the Wall Street Journal reports that Google's object is to retain search traffic rather than making money from music.
Pirate Facility Draws $10,000 FCC Fine
The FCC's Enforcement Bureau has issued a $10,000 forfeiture to two New Yorkers who, it says, "provided services and facilities incidental to the operation of an unlicensed transmitter" operating at 90.5 FM.
Patrick, Bruno Shows Head To DirecTV
Radio Ink has confirmed that The Dan Patrick Show and Into the Night With Tony Bruno, formerly syndicated by the Content Factory, are now under the auspices of DirecTV.
Senators Urge Leadership To Block Performance Rights Act
Sens. Blanche Lincoln and John Barrasso are urging Senate leadership not to let the Performance Rights Act move forward. They write to Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader John Barrasso, "By many estimations, passage of this legislation would result in potentially billions of dollars flowing from local broadcasters to the recording industry and would have a devastating impact on the local radio broadcasting system as we know it."
Ditch To PD At KUFO/Portland
Ditch has been named to program Alpha Broadcasting's Rock KUFO/Portland, OR. The 20-plus-year broadcast vet was most recently in afternoons at KGB/San Diego.
GLR Parent PRISA Buys Into V-Me
Spain-based PRISA Group, parent of Grupo Latino de Radio, has bought a 12 percent stake in U.S. Spanish-language TV network V-me Media.
Larson Signs New Deal With Alpha
Syndicated talker Lars Larson has signed a new five-year deal to continue his two daily shows based at Alpha Broadcasting's KXL/Portland, OR. Larson's midday show is heard on 18 stations in Washington and Oregon through Northwest Radio Networks, while his afternoon drivetime show airs via Compass Media Networks.
Sun Radio, Impact Team On 'Hero Living Moments'
Sun Radio teamed with Impact Radio Networks to launch the new national feature "Hero Living Moments With Rudy Reyes."
Univision Toolbar Available Now
Univision has teamed up with Conduit for the Univision Toolbar for Web browsers, offering users customized access to Univision.com features, social media tools, and other Web content.
Tesh Across The Atlantic
The John Tesh Radio Show is set to make its UK debut on Zeta 105.3 in West Suffolk in November, airing weekday mornings and Saturdays.
Apple Revenues Surge On iPhone, Mac Sales
With record sales of Macs and iPhones, Apple saw revenues of $9.87 billion in its fiscal fourth quarter, which ended September 26 -- that's up Profits came in at $1.67 billion ($1.82 per share), compared to $1.14 billion ($1.26) in the same period a year ago.
Zenith Optimedia Cuts Ad Forecast
Zenith Optimedia has once again downgraded its ad spending forecasts for North America and worldwide, saying the changes came after it became clear "how painful the first half of 2009 was for the media industry."
NPR Introduces NPR Radio
NPR has partnered with Livio on the NPR Radio, a standalone Internet radio receiver available for early orders now at the NPR Shop.
Journal Radio Revs Drop In Q3
Journal Communications' radio revenues were down 17.3 percent in the third quarter, to $17.9 million from $21.7 million. Journal's TV revenues fell by 21.4 percent, with publishing off 40.3 percent in Q3.
Arbitron Profit Dips In Q3
Arbitron reports net income of $13.7 million (51 cents per share) in the third quarter, compared to $17 million (63 cents) in Q3 of 2008. Revenues were down 4.3 percent, to $98.1 million, in part on Cumulus' and Clear Channel's decisions to use Nielsen's ratings in some markets.
WWVA/Atlanta Flips To 'Groove'
Clear Channel flips Spanish Contemporary WWVA (Viva 105.7) in Atlanta to Rhythmic as "The Groove 105.7."
Sharpton Threatens Suit Over Limbaugh Op-Ed
Rev. Al Sharpton is threatening to sue after Rush Limbaugh said in a Wall Street Journal op-ed that Sharpton played a "key role" in two incidents of race violence. Limbaugh was writing about being dropped from a group seeking to buy the St. Louis Rams; Sharpton was among those who protested his bid.
CMA Research To Be Presented At CRS 41
Country Radio Broadcasters will again again present the CMA Research Presentation at CRS 41, with a followup panel to talk about the findings.
KDND Case Goes To The Jury
The jury has been sent to deliberations in the lawsuit over the 2007 death of a contestant after a water-drinking contest at Entercom's KDND/Sacramento.
Radio One Stock Back In Nasdaq Compliance
Radio One has received a letter from Nasdaq saying the company's class D stock is back in line with Nasdaq's price requirements and is in good standing on the exchange. The letter also confirmed that Radio One's class A shares are in compliance with listing rules.
Van Dyke, Miller Exit Citadel Media
Friday was VP/Affiliate Relations Dave Van Dyke's last day with Citadel Media Networks. Van Dyke (pictured) had been with the company since 2007, when it was ABC Radio Networks, and formerly led CBS Radio's L.A. Stations. Citadel Media Chief Internet Sales & Content Officer Kevin Miller also exits.
USRN Joins The Media Rating Council
United Stations Radio Networks signs a three-year agreement with the Media Rating Council, giving the network a seat on the MRC board. "We feel the need to contribute to the quest for accuracy that is spearheaded by the Media Rating Council," USRN President/COO Jim Higgins said.
Report: SBS Ready To Sell Time For Music
Spanish Broadcasting System is ready to sell airtime to artists who want to be heard on its stations, says a Reuters report, with pricing based on the number of plays.
Late Renewals Draw FCC's Notice
The FCC has issued $7,000 notices of apparent liability to three stations for late license renewals and unauthorized operation. Each of the stations that received an NAL was on the air for about three years without a valid license.
McCann Named GSM At Greater Media/Philly Sports Duo
Jake McCann is the new GSM at Greater Media's WPEN-AM (950 ESPN) in Philly and at WNUW-FM, which recently became a Sports partner for the AM as "97.5 the Fanatic." He was most recently sales manager at 950 ESPN and clustermate WMGK.
Meyer Re-Ups With Sirius XM
Sirius XM President/Operations & Sales James Meyer has signed a new employment agreement that runs into 2013, with provisions if he elects to retire in 2011, according to an SEC filing.
Smyth: 'We Have Survived'
In his monthly "Corner Office" column, Greater Media chief Peter Smyth says that the "Great Recession has probably ended, at least in technical terms, and we have survived." Smyth sees "renewed optimism" in the year ahead and observes that, in the downturn, radio has learned to better run its businesses.
After MidNite Debuts 'Fresh Catch'
Premiere's After MidNite With Blair Garner introduces "Fresh Catch," a new, Web-based video feature designed to let labels promote new and emerging artists.
Westwood One Makes Deals With Debtholders
Westwood One has come to agreements with holders of its senior notes and with Wells Fargo Foothill to waive compliance with debt covenants. Westwood One will pay down the notes by $15 million-$20 million, depending on the results of a stock offering and the sale or lease of its Culver City, CA, properties.
Winners Of Student PSA Competition Named
NABEF and the Broadcast Education Association announce the winners of their Freedom of Speech PSA competition for college students. Taking the radio prizes are students from USC, Central Michigan University, and Biola University.
Woodie Joins As President Of Lotus Entravision Reps
Phillip Woodie has been named president of Lotus Entravision Reps, which represents about 125 Spanish-language stations. Former president Mary Hawley moves to VP/Western Regional Sales, focusing on the Los Angeles market.
Air America Debuts New Website
Air America Media has relaunched its website at www.airamerica.com, with around-the-clock news, audio and video commentary, and on-demand content.
LPFM Bill Approved By House Commerce Committee
The Local Community Radio Act, which would open the door for potentially hundreds of new low-power FM stations, has passed unanimously in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
New York PPM Deadline Comes And Goes
The January settlement between Arbitron and the New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo included a provision that Arbitron would get MRC accreditation for the PPM in New York by October 15. That deadline has come and gone, without public comment from Cuomo's office.
Poll: Most Americans Oppose Performance Royalty For Radio
In a poll released Thursday by the NAB, 75 percent of respondents said they oppose the Performance Rights Act, which would impose performance royalties on broadcast radio, and 95 percent of respondents agreed that radio has promotional value for artists and music. The poll results were released as the Senate Finance Committee voted today to approve the Performance Rights Act, which has already gotten the OK from the House Judiciary Committee.
Powers Named WXYT (97.1 The Ticket) PD
Jimmy Powers has been picked as PD at CBS Radio's Sports WXYT (97.1 The Ticket), effective immediately. Powers comes in from the PD job at Radio Ohio's Sports WBNS in Columbus.
Report: Entercom's Lawyer Argues KDND Defense
Entercom's lawyer argued Wednesday that the company and KDKD/Sacramento were not responsible for the death of Jennifer Strange after a contest at the station, the Sacramento Bee reports. But the lawyer also suggested $4.5 million as "reasonable compensation" for Strange's family.
Limbaugh Dropped From Rams Bid
Rush Limbaugh has been dropped from a group bidding to purchase the St. Louis Rams, with lead investor Dave Checketts -- owner of the St. Louis Blues hockey team -- calling Limbaugh's involvement "a complication."
Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Performance Right Act
The Senate Judiciary Committee has voted to approve the Performance Rights Act, which would for the first time require broadcast radio to pay performance royalties to record labels and other copyright owners. The House version of the bill has already passed in the House Judiciary Committee, but the PRA has several steps to go before becoming law.
Hendrie Returns To His Old Ways
After a couple of years doing a straight talk show, Talk Radio Network's Phil Hendrie is going back to his old style of playing multiple characters and, often, his own callers.
Smith To PD Of KJJY/Des Moines
R.W. Smith heads to Des Moines as PD of Citadel's Country KJYY. Smith most recently programmed KYCE/Las Vegas.
Univision Makes Move At 96.3 In New York
Univision is making a change at its newly acquired 96.3 FM signal in New York, as the station on Thursday evening will become WXNY (X 96.3 FM), with "rhythmic hits" and Luis Jimenez remaining in mornings. The company closed last week on a three-way deal to acquire the frequency.
Volvo Sets A New Standard: HD Radio
Volvo has become the first automaker to offer HD Radio as a standard feature across its entire product line, starting with the 2010 models.
FCC Upgrades Comments Filing
The FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System dates back to the Web's early days, and now the commission to unveil a new, upgraded version of the ECFS, and will be introducing version 2.0 in a presentation next week.
Civil Rights Groups Write To Leahy Opposing Performance Royalty
Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT), chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is a strong advocate of performance royalties for broadcast radio, and a group of civil rights advocates, including the MMTC and the Spanish Broadcasters Association, have written to Leahy to urge their opposition to the royalties, which, the groups say, could put as many as a third of minority broadcasters into bankruptcy.
Is FM Coming To iPhone, iPod Touch?
The 9to5Mac website reports a tip that an FM radio application is being developed by Apple for the iPhone and iPod touch, with the same functionality as the FM radio that was just added to the fifth-generation iPod nano.
Brooks Is CMA Personality Of The Year, KYGO Wins Station Prize
Kix Brooks, who hosts Citadel Media's American Country Countdown, picks up his first ever win as National Broadcast Personality of the Year from the Country Music Association. The CMA's Major Market Radio Station of the Year is KYGO/Denver.
Emmis Interactive Partners With dmr On PPM Tools
Emmis Interactive and PPM analysis firm dmr have partnered to offer data tools to radio.
RTNDA Becomes RTDNA
The Radio Television News Directors Association has changed its name, becoming the Radio Television Digital News Association. A new logo goes along with the new initials.
McIntyre Named VP/Product for CBS Interactive Music Group
Fred McIntyre takes the title of VP/product for CBS Interactive Music Group, which includes the CBS Radio websites, streaming, mobile, and the Last.fm music site. McIntyre arrives from an SVP post at AOL.
Analyst: Reason To Be Optimistic About Ad Market
UBS analyst Michael Morris said in a note to clients Monday that retailers could be looking to increase ad spending after sales rose in September, for the first time in more than a year. Morris wrote, "Healthier retail sales will encourage retailers to increase advertising to compete for share of still-shaky demand."
Beasley/Augusta's Dunn Takes 'Success Story' Prize
Beasley/Augusta, GA, VP/Market Manager Kent Dunn takes the prize in the NAB's "What's Working for You" initiative highlighting station success stories. Dunn wins free registration and hotel for NAB 2010 in April for the "Absolutely Augusta" entry.
Struble: NAB Radio Show Shows Attitude Shift
In his latest online column, iBiquity President CEO Bob Struble says the mood was different at NAB Radio Show 2010, with the "denial" and "panic" of earlier events moving to what he called "resolve: OK, it is what it is, let's stop feeling sorry for ourselves and get on with the business of fixing it."
TX Station Draws $7K NAL For Tower Change
KOLJ-AM/Quanah, TX, has been issued a $7,000 notice of apparent liability for resuming operations after a storm on a tower with a different electrical height than was authorized in the station's license.
Arbitron Talks Samples As New PPM Markets Roll
On Arbitron's monthly PPM conference call Monday, company execs Bill Rose and Beth Webb reiterated much of what was in Arbitron's earlier announcement detailing plans for a 10 percent panel increase across the total PPM sample by mid-2011. The call was held as the PPM was commercialized in five new markets – Tampa, St. Louis, Denver, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh -- with the release of September data.
iheartradio Mobile App Gets Video
Clear Channel's iheartradio mobile application has added on-demand video, including artist interviews and "stripped" performance clips.
NFL Players' Union Objects To Limbaugh Bid
DeMaurice Smith, executive director of the NFL Players Association, has complained to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell about the possible bid for the St. Louis Rams by a group that includes Rush Limbaugh, and is urging players to speak out on the deal as well.
GAP Sells Five In Texas
GAP has agreed to sell five stations in the Midland-Odessa market to ICA Radio for $3 million. ICA, whose parent, ICA Broadcasting, owns KOSA-TV in the market, will LMA the stations until the deal closes.
Emmis Radio Revenues Fall In Fiscal Q2
Emmis Communications' radio revenues were off 26.5 percent in the company's fiscal second quarter, to $53.4 million from $72.7 million in Q2 2008. Total net revenues were down 27.4 percent, to $68 million from $93.7 million.
Limbaugh Will Judge Miss America 2010
The Miss America Organization announces that Rush Limbaugh will one of seven judges for next year's Miss America Pageant, set for January 30 in Las Vegas.
WNUW/Philly Goes Sports, Simulcasting WPEN-AM
Friday at 5 p.m., Greater Media/Philadelphia gave WPEN (950 ESPN) an FM simulcast partner, flipping WNUW-FM to "97.5 the Fanatic." The change displaces Hot AC "Now" on WNUW.
Report: WLIU Will Go To Peconic Group
Peconic Public Broadcasting has signed a letter of intent to purchase noncomm WLIU from Long Island University, Long Island Business News reports, citing sources that put the bid at $2.4 million.
Arbitron EVP Behbehani Exits
In a brief SEC filing, Arbitron reports that EVP/Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer Taher Behbehani left the company, effective October 6.
Envision Launches 'Live Ride' With Danny Wright'
Envision Radio Networks introduces a new country weekend show, The Live Ride, hosted by Country radio vet and long-running Wright All Night host Danny Wright.
Heffner Arrives At Alpha As CFO
Former Citadel CFO Donna Heffner has joined Larry Wilson-led Alpha Broadcasting in the same post. Heffner was most recently CFO at Frontier Broadcast Holdings.
CBS Radio Adds 'Pulse' Dance HD Channel In SF
CBS Radio is looking to fill the Dance music gap in San Francisco with the new "Pulse" HD2 subchannel for Rhythmic AC KMVQ. Golden State's Dance KNGY/San Francisco flipped to Top 40 as KREV last month.
Jack Joins AFN Lineup
The Adult Hits Jack format is now available on American Forces Network, as one of four new satellite offerings being added to AFN's schedule.
USRN Debuts Country's HotList With Shawn Parr
United Stations Radio Networks launches the new four-hour weekly The Country's Hotlist With Shawn Parr, hosted by the KKGO/Los Angeles morning man. KKGO is the show's flagship affiliate.
Joyner Seeks Pardon For Ancestors
Nationally syndicated host Tom Joyner is seeking a pardon for two of his great-uncles who were executed in 1915, AP reports.
Report: GAP Takes Back Control Of LA Station
GAP Broadcasting will resume ownership of KTIB/Thibodaux, LA, a Louisiana paper reports, as buyer Faith Broadcasting ran out of funds.
Borrell: Online Sales Growth Will Slow In 2010
In its latest Local Interactive Advertising report, Borrell Associates says, "The game in 2010 will center more around stealing market share than growing the market." Local online advertising will reach $14.2 billion this year, up 12 percent from 2008, but Borrell projects that will slow to 5 percent growth in 2010.
LPFM Bill Passes In House Subcommittee
The House Subcommittee on Communication, Technology and the Internet has approved the Local Community Radio Act, which would require the FCC to eliminate third-adjacent separation requirements for most FMs. If the bill ultimately becomes law, it would clear the way for potentially hundreds of new LPFM stations.
Slacker Teams With Twitter
Internet and mobile streamer Slacker has integrated Twitter into its Personal Radio service, letting Slacker users tweet music from computers and mobile devices.
WQXR, WCAA/NY Trade Places As Sale Closes
New York Times Co., Univision Radio, and WNYC Radio have closed on the three-way deal that put Classical WQXR/New York in the hands of pubcaster WNYC. With the closing, Univision's Tropical WCAA and WQXR trade places on the dial, with WCAA heading to 96.3 and 'QXR moving to 105.9.
Emmis Partners With BAT To Offer Celeb Campaigns
Emmis Radio is teaming with Brand Affinity Technologies to offer advertisers the chance to all with more than 3,000 athlete and celebrity endorsers for targeted campaigns on all Emmis platforms.
Savage Debate In UK Canceled
Talk Radio Network host Michael Savage was set to participate in a debate at the UK's Cambridge Union via video link next week, but the group has canceled the event, citing both cost and "legal issues" with Savage's participation, WorldNetDaily reports.
Imus Debut Brings Big Ratings To FBN
The new cable simulcast of Don Imus' Citadel morning show began Monday, and it reportedly brought a big ratings bump to Fox Business Network, attracting 177,000 total viewers in the 6-9 a.m. ET slot, up from a previous all-day average of 21,000.
Don Thurston Dies At 79
Former Berkshire Broadcasting President and onetime NAB Joint Board Chair Donald Thurston died Monday of Parkinson's disease at age 79.
FCC Hands Out Four $10k NALs For Public File Problems
The FCC's Media Bureau has issued $10,000 notices of apparent liability to three broadcast owners for violations of the public file rules at four stations. All the owners acknowledged missing issues/programs lists when filing applications for license renewal, and all four stations' renewals have been granted.
Genachowski: 'It's All About Mobile'
FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski spoke Wednesday at the International CTIA Wireless IT & Entertainment convention in San Diego, saying that in the private sector, he "saw mobile go from a futurist fantasy, to a nice-to-have part of a company's gameplan, to a must-have strategic priority."
MIW Details 2010 Mentoring Program
The Mentoring & Inspiring Women group announces details for its 2010 Mildred Carter Mentoring Program. Three candidates will be chosen for the 2010 program.
Brennan Resigns From AWRT
American Women in Radio & Television President Maria Brennan has resigned to take a post as president and CEO of Women in Cable Telecommunications. AWRT National Board Chair Sylvia Strobel becomes the group's interim president.
WEEI Allies With ESPN Radio
Entercom's Boston-based WEEI Sports Radio Network has made a deal to add ESPN Radio programming in nights and weekends, along with some ESPN play-by-play, beginning next month.
NY Post: Clear Channel Buyers Ask Banks For Help
A report in Wednesday's New York Post says the private equity firms that bought Clear Channel Communications are asking the banks in the deal to help them stay out of default. But a spokesperson for THL Partners and Bain Capital tells Radio Ink, "The New York Post story about Clear Channel today is dead wrong, and we told them so."
Both Sides Rest In KDND Contest Trial
The defense has rested after one day of testimony in the wrongful death suit involving Entercom's KDND/Sacramento, the Sacramento Bee reports. Entercom's lawyer brought four witnesses to the stand, including two other contestants in the water-drinking contest that left Jennifer Strange, 28, dead of water intoxication.
More BMWs Get Standard HD Radio
Two more BMW models will have HD Radio on the dash as of later this month: the SUV X5 crossover and the X6 coupe add HD as as standard feature.
Survey: TV, Radio Sites Continue To Grow
A new RTNDA/Hofstra University survey found that TV and radio websites are growing more complex, but only 38 percent of news directors surveyed said they're comfortable that their stations are on top of new technology.
Geary Dropped From KDND Contest Suit
There is one less defendant in the wrongful-death trial over a contest at Entercom's KDND/Sacramento that resulted in the death of a contestant: VP/Market Manager John Geary has been dropped from the suit.
Limbaugh Bidding On St. Louis Rams
Premiere host Rush Limbaugh is among the bidders to purchase the St. Louis Rams, AP reports, in partnership with St. Louis Blues owner Dave Checkett.
Edwards Plans New African-American Station In Pittsburgh
Eddie Edwards Sr. has purchased WPYT-AM in Pittsburgh with a plan launch a new African-American-focused News/Talker, probably early next year.
Internet Ad Revenues Dip In First Half
The Interactive Advertising Bureau and PricewaterhouseCoopers report that U.S. Internet ad revenues came in a $10.9 billion in the first half of this year, down 5.3 percent from the same period in 2009. But IAB President/CEO Randall Rothenberg says interactive "is one of the advertising sectors that has been least affected" by the slumping economy.
Updated: WVMV Amps Up
After a weekend of stunting, the new format and name for formerly Smooth Jazz WVMV/Detroit are revealed. No surprises: It's Top 40, and it's AMP Radio. CBS Radio VP/CHR Programming Dom Theodore says, "This station is all about the hits, and we intend to build the next powerhouse Top 40 on a number of integrated platforms."
Philly Radio Icon Nettleton Dies
Jim Nettleton, a longtime Philadelphia radio icon and an original WFIL-AM "Boss Jock," has died of lung cancer at age 69.
Tierney Named VP/Broadcast Ops At WFNX Radio Network
Radio and label vet Mike Tierney is tapped as VP of broadcast operations at Phoenix Media Communications Group's WFNX Radio Network.
CBS: Time For Constitutional Inquiry On Jackson Indecency Case
In a filing on the long-running court case over the 2004 Super Bowl "wardrobe malfunction" involving Janet Jackson, CBS Corp. says the FCC has an "Ahab-like obsession" with the matter, and says a constitutional inquiry on indecency enforcement is appropriate in light of the commission's "renewed commitment to pursue this case indefinitely" and the Supreme Court's invitation to the Circuit Court to look at the constitutional issues in the Fox Television fleeting-indecency case.
Newberry Talks Royalties On C-SPAN
In an appearance on C-SPAN series The Communicators, NAB Joint Board Chair and Commonwealth Broadcasting President/CEO Steve Newberry, talking about the Performance Rights Act, said radio values its relationship with artists and doesn't ask for compensation for airplay. "We don't think airplay should go to the highest bidder," he said. "But if we do see [performance royalties] happen, and radio stations are forced to pay, I think that one of the unintended consequences could very well be that it becomes a pure business transaction."
Premiere Debuts 'London Calling'
Premiere Radio Networks is set to launchLondon Calling, hosted by XFM/London's Ian Camfield. The two-hour weekend music show will air internationally beginning October 10.
FCC Extends Form 323 Filing Date
The FCC has extended the November 1 filing date for the revised Form 323 until after the new form, which collects ownership information, is approved by the Office of Management and Budget.
Grants Will Fund New NPR Local Journalism Project
NPR is launching a new journalism project that it says is designed "to develop in-depth local coverage on topics critical to communities and the nation." The project, involving 12 NPR stations, will be funded with $3 million from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the Knight Foundation.
McGraw To Play For CBS 'Live On Letterman' Webcast
Country star Tim McGraw is set to perform an exclusive "Live on Letterman" webcast concert on October 12, after taping an appearance on CBS's Late Night With David Letterman.
Last.fm Discover Launches
CBS Interactive Music Group debuts Last.fm Discover, the new streaming and HD Radio station announced last month. The station is airing on HD signals for CBS's WWFS-FM, KCBS-FM, WXRT-FM, and KITS-FM.
'WSJ This Morning' Adds An Hour
The Wall Street Journal This Morning with Gordon Deal is now an hour longer, adding the 9-10 a.m. ET hour as of Monday.
Updated: WVMV Amps Up
After a weekend of stunting, the new format and name for formerly Smooth Jazz WVMV/Detroit are revealed. No surprises: It's Top 40, and it's AMP Radio. CBS Radio VP/CHR Programming Dom Theodore says, "This station is all about the hits, and we intend to build the next powerhouse Top 40 on a number of integrated platforms."
Ianniello Re-Ups With CBS Corp.
Joseph Ianniello, who was named EVP/CFO of CBS Corp. in June, has signed a new agreement that will keep him at CBS into July of 2013.
Lopez Named GSM At WCBS-FM
Chad Lopez takes the GSM post at CBS Radio's Classic Hits WCBS-FM/New York, adding duties with WCBS-AM. Cathy Murphy moves up to sales manager at the AM.
FCC: Keep Stay On Ownership Rules Change
In a required status report to the court on the challenges to its 2008 media ownership order, the FCC asks the court to keep a stay on the rules change in place, in light of the "unusual circumstances" of an FCC with three new members. The FCC's 2008 order loosened the newspaper-broadcast cross-ownership rule.
Arbitron Details Sample Increase Plans
Arbitron said Friday that it plans to increase its 18-54 sample targets in PPM markets by 10 percent by the middle of 2011, with an 8 percent increase in place by the end of next year. Additionally, Arbitron will maintain a minimum sample target of at least 750 active panel participants 6 and older in "substantially all" PPM markets by the middle of 2011.
Hilles Leaves Goom Radio
As reported earlier, CEO Rob Williams has left Internet startup Goom Radio, and now word comes that Chief Sales Officer Drew Hilles is exiting as well, along with Marketing Director Hayeon Kim.
Carat Revises Ad Forecasts
Media agency Carat has revised its global ad spending forecasts for 2009 and 2010, and is now predicting a worldwide spending decline of 9.8 percent. In the U.S., the forecast is now for a 16.3 percent dropoff this year, but national TV and radio are "holding up better," the agency said, "due to their ability to drive strong reach and awareness."
2010 Gracies Open For Entries
American Women in Radio & Television has opened nominations for the 2010 Gracie Awards for programming for, by, and about women.
Broadcaster Dic Youngs Dies At 68
Longtime Iowa broadcaster Richard "Dic" Youngs has died at age 68 after a long illness. Youngs was with KIOA/Des Moines for more than 40 years.
WOR Debuts 'Na710n' Social Network
Buckley's WOR/New York has launched a new online community, "The Na710n," letting listeners interact with each as well as hosts and station staff.
Mark Ramsey Media Teams With RAB South Africa
Mark Ramsey Media has teamed up with the RAB of South Africa to collaborate on strategies and best practices for radio. Ramsey will provide video and written commentary on radio issues for RAB SA.
ESPN Deportes Partners With Ford, AT&T, Others For 'Dream Job'
ESPN Deportes has made a multimedia agreement with Ford, AT&T, Burger King, and Infinity Auto Insurance to market Dream Job: El Reportero, the Spanish-language version of ESPN's Dream Job.
McCarthy Named WideOrbit CFO
Broadcast software provider WideOrbit names Margaret McCarthy CFO. She was most recently at tech company Red Condor.
NPR Launches New Technology Center
NPR has created a new Technology Research Center operating under the Public Radio Satellite System.
Davidson Media, St. Jude's Team For Radiothon
Davidson Media Group and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have set the dates for the second annual Promesa y Esperanza radiothon on Spanish-language stations.
Penguins HD Channel On The Air
The dedicated Pittsburgh Penguins HD Radio subchannel announced earlier this year is on the air, as a subchannel of Clear Channel Alternative WXDX (105.9 the X), the Penguins' flagship station.
Entravision Back In Line With Listing Requirements, Says NYSE
Entravision Communications has received notice from the New York Stock Exchange that it is back in compliance with listing requirements, keeping its average closing share price over $1 over a 30-day trading period. Entravision earlier received notice that it was in danger of being delisted.
Global Ad Spending Down In H1, But 'Signs Of Improvement'
Nielsen's newest Global AdView Pulse report on advertising in 27 markets in Asia, North America, Europe, and Africa found that, in North America, ad spending fell by 15.9 percent in the first half of this year. Across all measured markets, ad spending fell 6.8 percent in the first half, but the second quarter showed a more "contained decline" of 5.8 percent, compared to 7.9 percent in Q1.
Alpha Closes On CBS/Portland Purchase
Alpha Broadcasting has closed on its $40 million purchase of four stations in Portland, OR, from CBS Radio. Alpha now owns six stations in the market.
WTOP Makes Content Deal With Motley Fool
Bonneville's WTOP-FM/Washington has signed a content deal with Motley Fool, which becomes the main provider of business and investment content for the News station's WTOP.com.
Univision Moves Into E-Commerce
Univision has begun offering branded merchandise based on its popular television shows through its own new e-commerce site, La Tienda Univision.
Bouvard Heads News Arbitron Cross-Platform Measurement Group
Pierre Bouvard becomes EVP/Cross-Platform Services at Arbitron as the company forms a new cross-platform media measurement group, designed to leverage PPM technologies beyond the radio business. Additionally, Carol Hanley moves up to SVP/Chief Sales Officer.
Arbitron Sets Q3 Earnings Release
Arbitron will release earnings results for the third quarter on October 20, with a conference call the same day.
Last UK Radio Broadcaster Delisted
Local Radio Co., the last remaining radio broadcaster on the London Stock exchange, has been delisted, UK paper the Guardian reports.
Entercom's Geary 'Stunned' By Strange's Death
Entercom/Sacramento VP/Market Manager John Geary told the court Tuesday that he was "stunned" by the death of Jennifer Strange after a KDND contest, the Sacramento Bee reports. Geary said he didn't know about the "Hold Your Wee for a Wii" contest by the station's then morning team.
Journal Broadcast Group CEO Kiel To Retire
Doug Kiel, president of Journal Communications and CEO of Journal Broadcast Group, will retire at the end of this year to start his own company. Journal Communications CEO Steven Smith will take CEO duties at Journal Broadcast when Kiel retires.
Richards Named OM For Emmis/Indy
Twenty-year market veteran Bob Richards takes a job as OM for Emmis' hometown Indianapolis cluster, overseeing Talk WIBC-FM, AC WYXB-FM, Country WLHK-FM, and Sports WFNI-AM.
Goom CEO Rob Williams Exits
Rob Williams, the former Clear Channel/New York market manager who served as CEO of Internet radio startup Goom Radio, has resigned, PaidContent reports.
KHFI/Austin's Bones Robbed In Station Parking Lot
Bobby Bones, morning host at Clear Channel Top 40 KHFI (Kiss FM)/Austin, was mugged in the station parking lot while coming in to work about 4 o'clock Monday morning.
Debut Broadcasting Completes Financing Deal
Debut Broadcasting Corp. has signed a $1.5 million financing agreement with River Falls Financial Services that will help Debut in debt restructuring and expansion.
Pay Cuts, Furloughs At Westwood One
Westwood One is making cost cuts, with a pay cut equal to five days' pay, spread out over 10 weeks, plus five days of unpaid furlough, for full-time employees. A 2010 performance-bonus plan will give eligible employees back the equivalent of five days' pay, plus 10 percent. Westwood One President Rod Sherwood said in a memo to employees, "We are not yet experiencing the kind of revenue growth we need to meet our financial goals and support our current cost structure."
BusRadio Closes Its Doors
BusRadio, launched four years ago to offer radio programming to kids on school buses, has ceased operations. BusRadio was looked at by the FCC over the summer, and anti-commercial activists are calling the closure a "victory."
FCC To Hold Workshops For 2010 Ownership Review
The FCC's Media Bureau has announced a series of workshops as a first step in the 2010 quadrennial review of the media-ownership rules. The first workshop, "to receive public input on the appropriate scope and methodology" of the review, will be held in early November.
Kraddick To Be Heard On American Forces Radio
Gravity, Citadel Media's 24-hour CHR format created for American Forces Radio, will launch on October 5, including the nationally syndicated Kidd Kraddick in the Morning.
Report: Oaktree Capital Gets $1 Billion Investment
Oaktree Capital, a backer of Triton and GAP Broadcasting, will receive a billion-dollar investment from China Investment Corp., the Wall Street Journal reports.
KVTT/Dallas Sale Closes
North Texas Public Broadcasting closes on its $18 million purchase of KVTT-FM/Dallas from Covenant Educational Media.
Keillor Returns To The Air
Long-running Minnesota Public Radio Prairie Home Companion host Garrison Keillor is back on the air, three weeks after suffering a mild stroke.
Genachowski: Commission 'Reviewing The Record' On PPM
FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski told the NABOB Fall Broadcast Management Conference Friday that the FCC has "somewhat limited" authority over PPM issues, but is reviewing the record. Genachowski said he'll be asking the Media Bureau to put together a roundtable in the hope of resolving some PPM issues.
CBS Radio, FCC Enter Consent Decree Over 'Wing Bowl' Flap
CBS Radio of Philadelphia and the FCC have come to a consent decree that settles the long-running investigation over WIP-AM/Philly's "Wing Bowl" eating competition. A $4,000 forfeiture -- imposed over WIP's revoking of a contest prize -- has been canceled, but CBS Radio will make a Treasury contribution in that amount.
Network Radio Cume Up In RADAR 102
Arbitron says RADAR 102 showed that network radio is delivering more listeners across major buying demos than seen in RADAR 101. The RADAR networks attracted 96.1 million 25-54 listeners in RADAR 102, up from 95.3 million in the previous survey.
KKOB Takes Marconi As Legendary Station Of The Year
September 25, 2009: The winners of the 2009 Marconi Awards were announced Thursday night at the NAB Radio Show, and Citadel's Talk KKOB-AM/Albuquerque takes honors as Legendary Station of the Year. Dave Ramsey wins Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year, and Jerry Lee's WBEB takes two awards as the show is held in its hometown of Philadelphia.
Billy Bush Show Adds CHR Edition
September 24, 2009: Westwood One launches a new CHR-focused version of The BIlly Bush Show, with KLIF/Dallas, WWWQ/Atlanta, and KRBE/Houston already on board.
BMW Adds Standard HD In More Models
September 24, 2009: BMW is adding standard HD Radio to its 1 Series, 3 Series and Z4 Roadster for 2010.
Emmis, Nobex Partner For BlackBerry App
September 24, 2009: Emmis and Nobex Technologies have entered into a co-branding and distribution deal to put station-branded version of the Nobex Radio Companion application on BlackBerry smartphones.
Honig Defends FCC Diversity Officer
September 24, 2009: MMTC chief David Honig has sent a letter to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski defending controversial FCC Chief Diversity Officer Mark Lloyd.
Survey: More Using Radio, Online For News
September 24, 2009: A new survey from ARAnet finds that Americans are getting more of their news and information from radio and online, and turning less to television.
Pallad Upped To Citadel EVP/Sales
September 24, 2009: Citadel has moved Michael Pallad into the newly created post of EVP/Sales, overseeing all of the company's sales platforms.
McDowell: Localism Proposals Could Be New 'Fairness Doctrine'
September 24, 2009: Speaking at the National Religious Broadcasters Capitol Hill Media Summit, FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell said that proposed localism requirements, like content disclosure forms and mandatory community advisory boards, could achieve Fairness Doctrine goals "through a different route."
Coleman Insights Buys MediaEKG
September 23, 2009: Coleman Insights has acquired mediaEKG, a media research firm that offers consumer feedback to clients. MediaEKG President Sam Milkman joins Coleman as EVP, heading a new Philadelphia office.
JacAPPS Gets Its Millionth Download
September 23, 2009: Jacobs Media's iPhone application developer, jacAPPS, reports that its client apps have been downloaded over a million times.
Jaguar XJ To Feature Standard HD Radio
September 23, 2009: The 2010 models of Jaguar's flagship Jaguar XJ sedan will feature HD Radio as a standard feature.
Dial Global Offers 'Project BARAC' Barter Plan
September 23, 2009: Dial Global is offering a new service, trading research and consulting services for barter ads.
Redlasso Makes Huckabee Deal
September 23, 2009: Redlasso, an online search, clip, and share service for TV and radio broadcasts, has made a deal to create a custom media center for "Huckabee Report" host Mike Huckabee, and will also be building a media center for Citadel's WLS/Chicago.
Marketron, Donovan Collaborate For Electronic Orders
September 23, 2009: Marketron and Donovan Data Systems are collaborating to offer completely electronic transactions between spot buyers and stations.
Nielsen Releases Top 10s
September 23, 2009: The Nielsen Co. has released the first station results from its new radio ratings service: the top 10 rated stations for the 51 small and midsized markets in the March/April survey. In Ann Arbor, MI, the largest market measured, Citadel's News/Talk WJR takes the top slot, while in Westchester, NY, Clear Channel Top 40 WHTZ/New York leads the way.
NAB: MusicFirst Petition Counter To Constitution, FCC Rules
September 23, 2009: In reply comments on the MusicFirst Coalition's petition asking the commission to get involved in the debate over performance royalties, the NAB tells the FCC that comments in support of the petition "provide no support for MusicFirst's efforts to stifle broadcasters' speech, in violation of long-standing Communications Act law and policy, well settled commission precedent, and broadcasters' constitutional rights."
Smith Meets The Press At Radio Show
September 23, 2009: Incoming NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith met with reporters today at the NAB Radio Show, saying his objective at the agency will to be an advocate for broadcasters in Washington, and "to help foster an environment whereby broadcasters can utilize emerging technologies to make it theirs instead of just responding to it, and to make this industry, help it to be as dynamic and as profitable and as contributory to American life as it always has been in the past."
Radio Today: Radio Reaches More Than 90% Of 12+ Consumers
September 23, 2009: Arbitron's annual Radio Today report is out, including PPM data for the first time. The study found that 90 percent of consumer 12 and older hear radio every week. News/Talk/Information came in as the top-rated format in fall 2008.
Warfield: Fight Against Royalties Is Not Over
September 23, 2009: NAB Radio Board Chair and ICBC Broadcast Holdings President/COO Charles Warfield called the ongoing battle against performance royalties a "major challenge" in his opening remarks at the NAB Radio Show, and said the fight isn't over. He also talked about, among other things, the ongoing Radio Heard Here campaign and the NAB's FASTROAD technology initiative.
Smith: 'My Politics Are The Interests Of The NAB'
September 23, 2009: Newly named NAB President/CEO -- and former U.S. senator -- Gordon Smith told attendees at the NAB Radio Show Wednesday, "Now, my politics are the interests of the National Association of Broadcasters, which translates into serving radio and television broadcasters and the American people."
Nielsen: Younger Demos Tuning In
September 23, 2009: Data from Nielsen's new radio ratings service found that 18-34-year-olds in the 51 small and midsized markets measured listen to radio 21.5 hours a week, about even with 12+ listening in the markets.
PPM Coalition: House Committee Findings Show PPM Flaws
September 23, 2009: The PPM Coalition says a statement from the House Oversight Committee on Media Rating Council documents echoes its own concerns about the ratings methodology.
Towns Cites 'Persistent Problems' With PPM; Arbitron Disputes Conclusions
September 23, 2009: House Oversight Committee Chairman Edolphus Towns (D-NY) says documents subpoenaed from the Media Rating Council show the MRC found "persistent problems" with minority samples for the PPM. Arbitron responds that it is "surprised and disappointed" at the "erroneous conclusions" of the Oversight Committee's analysis.
NAB Radio Show Begins
September 23, 2009: The NAB Radio Show started with a meet-and-greet last night, and today the full lineup of sessions and panels begins, including remarks from newly named NAB president and CEO Gordon Smith.
Regional Reps Opens New York Office
September 22, 2009: Regional Reps Corp. is set to open a New York office on October 5. Patrice Davidow will serve as regional manager/northeast.
Metro Traffic Debuts Traffic On The Go
September 22, 2009: Metro Traffic has launched Traffic on the Go, which offers live camera images of traffic conditions to smartphones and other mobile devices.
Limbaugh To Present At '09 Radio HOF Inductions
September 22, 2009: Word from the National Radio Hall of Fame that Rush Limbaugh will be a presenter at the November 7 induction gala.
Beasley Goes Mobile With An iPhone App
September 22, 2009: Beasley Broadcast Group debuts a new app, iRadioNow, for the Apple iPhone and iPod touch. Mobile streaming for 36 of Beasley's 42 stations is up and running.
SDS Integrates Eastlan Ratings Data
September 22, 2009: Specialty Data Systems has signed on as a third-party provider of Eastlan Ratings Data, through its SDS Sales application.
Arbitron Debuts Survey Analytics Program
September 22, 2009: Arbitron is set to debut the Web-based Arbitron Survey Analytics Program next month, and will be providing demonstrations and training at the NAB Radio Show.
Liquid Compass Signs Salem, Saga
September 22, 2009: Liquid Compass has signed up Salem Communications and Saga Communications for its streaming delivery network
Report: Suit Filed Over Joyner Cancellation
September 22, 2009: Reach Media has filed suit against Clear Channel over the decision to drop Tom Joyner on WVAZ/Chicago, the Chicago Tribune reports.
NAB Cancels European Conference
September 22, 2009: Citing tough economic conditions, the NAB has canceled the NAB European Radio Conference, which had been scheduled for next month in Athens.
Clear Channel Names Free Ad Winners
September 22, 2009: BBDO New York, BBH, Barrie D'Rozario Murphy, and Ogilvy & Mather New York will receive a collective $1 million in free advertising from Clear Channel as the winners of the 4A's annual O'Toole Awards.
25 Senators Now On Board Against Performance Royalty
September 22, 2009: Twenty-five senators have now signed on in support of the Local Radio Freedom Act opposing performance royalties for broadcast radio. An identical resolution has the backing of 251 members of the House.
Broadcasters Foundation Fundraiser Brings In $100k
September 21, 2009: The Broadcasters Foundation raised more than $100,000 with its annual celebrity golf tournament, held last week in Bronxville, NY.
Denton Heads SCBA's GSMs Council
September 21, 2009: KROQ/Los Angeles GSM Bill Denton had been picked as chairman of the Southern California Broadcasters Association's General Sales Managers Council.
NAB, TowerSource Offer Tower-Leasing Services
September 21, 2009: The NAB is partnering with TowerSource to offer NAB members services to help lease their tower assets.
Kingsford Launches ESPN Deportes Campaign
September 21, 2009: Kingsford charcoal is launching a new radio and TV campaign to align the brand with soccer coverage on ESPN Deportes radio and TV.
Genachowski, Williams Join NABOB Conference Lineup
September 21, 2009: FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski will speak September 25 at the NABOB Fall Management Conference. Also added to the lineup is Kevin Williams of Matlock Advertising, which works with Mini USA.
WGBH Buys Classical WCRB/Boston
September 21, 2009: Public radio and TV broadcaster WGBH has agreed to buy heritage Classical WCRB/Boston from Nassau Broadcasting Partners of New Jersey. The terms were not disclosed, but WGBH said the deal will be financed with a special "Keep Classical Alive" campaign.
BIA Changes Its Name To BIA/Kelsey
September 21, 2009: BIA Advisory Services will now be known as BIA/Kelsey. BIA, which bought the Kelsey Group in October 2008, also launches some new consulting services.
McHale Heads Katz Advantage's Sports Marketing
September 21, 2009: Katz Advantage picks Lauren McHale to lead its sports marketing division as VP and director of sales.
Edgar Is OM Of CCR/Pittsburgh
September 21, 2009: Clear Channel Radio names David Edgar OM for the six-station Pittsburgh cluster, and day-to-day PD of Top 40 WKST and Classic Hits WWSW. Edgar was most recently director of operations for Emmis in Indianapolis.
Dial Global Leads RADAR 102
September 21, 2009: The Dial Global Contemporary Network leads the RADAR 102 network radio numbers for September 2009. The 58 RADAR networks reached 73.5 percent of people 12+ in the survey, and 75.8 percent of 25-54s.
Survey: iPod Radio Piques Interest Among 18-34s
September 21, 2009: A survey from Vision Critical found that some features of the FM tuner that's part of the new Apple iPod nano -- especially the pause-and-rewind function -- are of considerable interest to 18-34-year-olds.
NRRC Makes PPM Recommendations
September 21, 2009: The Network Radio Research Council has released planning and buying guidelines as the PPM is integrated into Arbitron's Nationwide and RADAR ratings.
Report: Citadel Avoids Default With $2 Million Payment
September 21, 2009: Citadel has avoided technical default on its debt with a $2 million interest payment, the Wall Street Journal reports.
WSJ: Ownership Rules Slow Citadel's Negotiations With Lenders
September 18, 2009: The Wall Street Journal writes that lenders are "tripping over federal media-ownership rules" as they work with distressed broadcasters, including Citadel Broadcasting.
Google Launches Display Ad Service
September 18, 2009: Google takes direct aim at Yahoo as it launches the new DoubleClick Ad Exchange, a display ad service to go with its hugely successful AdWords text ad business.
Emmis Gets Nasdaq Notice
September 18, 2009: Emmis Communications has received a notice from Nasdaq that its share price has fallen below the $1 minimum for more than 30 days.
Time Asks: Is Beck Bad For America?
September 18, 2009: Premiere Radio Networks and Fox News host Glenn Beck has been all over the news in recent weeks, and the current issue of Time magazine puts him on the cover, with a story headlined "Is Glenn Beck Bad for America"?
Newberry: Smith Will Be Statesman, Leader At NAB
September 18, 2009: NAB Joint Board Chair Steve Newberry tells Radio Ink more about the choice of former senator Gordon Smith as the organization's new president and CEO. Newberry says Smith, a two-term Republican Senator from Oregon, "has a great record of being a very effective legislator and being highly regarded in Washington, DC."
Gordon Smith Named NAB President/CEO
September 18, 2009: The NAB has chosen its new president and CEO: Gordon Smith, a former Repubilican senator from Oregon and a successful businessman before entering politics. Smith will meet broadcasters at the NAB Radio Show next week and joins the NAB officially November 1.
Arbitron Partners With Advertisers, Agencies To Create 'Affinity Metric'
September 17, 2009: Arbitron announces the formation of a task force to develop a measure of "affinity," to reflect the value of the relationship listeners have with radio. Among the task force's leadership team are Katz Media Group EVP Gerry Boehme, Univision's David Gleason, the RAB's Jeff Haley, and Westwood One's Paul Bronstein.
RAB Debuts Best Of Radio Website
September 17, 2009: The RAB has launched a new website with tools and resources to help agencies, stations, and production houses to improve creative. The site is at www.thebestofradio.com.
Limbaugh Donates $500K To Ear Institute
September 17, 2009: Rush Limbaugh has donated $500,000 to the House Ear Institute in Los Angeles in memory of the doctor he say "saved his career."
M&M Buys Four In Texas
September 17, 2009: M&M Broadcasters has made a deal to buy three stations in Waco and one in Marlin, TX, from Simmons Media Group.
Sirius XM Gets Nasdaq Notice On Bid Price
September 17, 2009: Sirius XM has received an notice from Nasdaq saying its stock has fallen below $1 per share for 30 consecutive business days and is not in compliance with exchange rules.
