TALKERS Exclusive: Why AM Radio Still Matters – And Why Cities Must Step Up to Save It
By Frank Morano
City Councilor
New York City 51st District
Staten Island
For most of my life, the sound of an AM signal has been my constant companion. Long before I ever spoke into a microphone professionally, I was the kid hiding under the covers with a transistor radio, slowly turning the dial, discovering voices, ideas, communities, and worlds far beyond my bedroom. AM radio didn’t just shape my career – it shaped who I am.
That’s why, as both a lifelong AM radio listener and a longtime AM broadcaster (77WABC and WNYM-AM “970 The Answer”), I’m introducing legislation in the New York City Council to require that all City-owned and City-contracted vehicles continue to include functioning AM receivers. I’m proud of my work in government, but this one is personal. Because AM radio isn’t just entertainment or nostalgia – it’s infrastructure. It’s public safety. It’s the backbone of our emergency communications system. And it’s in danger.
When Everything Else Fails, AM Radio Doesn’t
We don’t have to imagine what happens when modern communications collapse. We’ve lived it.
On September 11, 2001, when cell networks jammed almost immediately, millions of New Yorkers turned to AM radio for news, instructions, and reassurance.
In the 2003 Northeast Blackout, AM signals were among the very few communications systems still functioning across multiple states.
During Superstorm Sandy, when much of the region lost power and internet for days, AM remained a critical lifeline for emergency updates, evacuation information, and weather alerts.
These weren’t theoretical scenarios. They were real moments of crisis – and AM radio proved its value every single time.
When the lights go out, AM stays on. When cell networks are overwhelmed, AM cuts through. When the internet fails, AM continues broadcasting. It is the most resilient form of mass communication ever created, and FEMA and the National Weather Service still rely on AM frequencies for a reason: they reach people when nothing else can.
AM Radio Is Still the Soundtrack of America
Beyond emergencies, AM radio remains woven into the cultural fabric of this country. It’s where Americans talk to each other – about politics, sports, faith, overnight oddities, neighborhood issues, and everything in between. It’s one of the last places where anyone can call in, join the conversation, and be part of a community.
The same AM dial that once carried the voices announcing D-Day, the moon landing, and the gritty street reporting of New York legends still carries the news, opinions, and debates that shape American life today. There is something uniquely democratic about the AM band: it is accessible, unpretentious, inexpensive, and available to everyone.
That’s worth preserving. Especially now, as some automakers – particularly in the electric vehicle space – phase AM radios out of new models, citing interference or cost concerns.
Cities and States Can Lead Where Washington Waits
Congress is considering the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act,” and I support it wholeheartedly. But federal action can take time. Cities and states can move faster.
New York City’s legislation can be a model:
- If municipalities require AM receivers in the vehicles they procure…
- If state governments do the same for their fleets…
- And if enough jurisdictions stand firm…
Automakers will have no choice but to keep AM radio in every vehicle they sell.
Government can’t – and shouldn’t – tell anyone what to listen to. But we absolutely can ensure that the option to listen still exists. And that, when disaster strikes, the public can rely on a system proven over nearly a century to work under the toughest circumstances imaginable.
The Signal Must Go On
AM radio isn’t a relic. It’s a lifeline. It’s a civic space. It’s one of the last great mediums that belongs to the people. As someone who owes much of his career – and much of his identity – to those airwaves, I feel a responsibility to protect them.
By acting locally here in New York City, I hope we inspire communities across the country to do the same. If we want the AM dial to be there for the next blackout, the next storm, or the next unthinkable moment, the time to act is now.
Because when everything else goes silent, AM radio still speaks.
And we need to make sure it always will.
Frank Morano was recently elected City Councilor representing New York City’s 51st district. Prior to that he forged a distinguished career in talk radio at WABC and WNYM in New York. Councilor Morano can be reached via email at frank@moranoforcouncil.com.
In an industry built on speed – breaking news, live liners, commercial deadlines – “pause” can feel like a luxury radio can’t afford. But Kevin Cashman’s The Pause Principle: Step Back to Lead Forward (Wiley) argues the opposite: pausing isn’t weakness, it’s a competitive advantage. For local radio leaders, the message couldn’t be timelier.
by the FCC and is expected to close early next year. Connoisseur Media says the sale is “another step in the company’s efforts to concentrate on markets where it can execute its successful playbook. It is one element in the strategic plan for the markets acquired in Connoisseur Media’s acquisition of Alpha Media that took place in September.” Connoisseur Media founder and CEO Jeff Warshaw says, “Bakersfield was a market that did not fit into the long-term plans we have for Connoisseur. We looked for a local operator that we felt could devote the time and energy that Bakersfield deserves. We are confident that we have found that in Frequency and the Hill family operation.”
Notes due 2031, to be issued by the company and guaranteed by each existing and future subsidiaries of the company, and cash. In connection with the Exchange Offer, Urban One begins offer to purchase up to $185 million in aggregate principal amount of the Existing Notes for up to $111 million in cash. In connection with the Exchange Offer, the company is also offering Eligible Holders the right to subscribe to purchase up to $60.6 million in aggregate principal amount of 10.500% first lien senior secured notes due 2030.
Westwood One’s long running, late night program “America at Night,” as of last night’s program (11/13). His replacement will be KTRS, St. Louis morning host McGraw Milhaven, slated to begin on December 1. Valdes took over the reins of the program in upon the passing of its longtime host Jim Bohannon in October of 2022. Stay tuned for updates and developments as they are available. Milhaven states, “I’m deeply grateful to Westwood One for entrusting me with “America at Night” — a show that builds on a proud tradition of engaging listeners during one of radio’s most meaningful times. It’s both an incredible honor and a profound responsibility. From listening to Larry King and Jim Bohannon in high school — too intimidated to call in — to now being named host of this show, this journey has exceeded anything I could have imagined. My nightly mission is simple: to seek out great stories from great storytellers — and to share a few of my own along the way.” 
Amendment protects journalistic choices from government intimidation. Nevertheless, this FCC has deployed a vague and ineffective News Distortion policy as a weapon to stretch its licensing authority and pressure newsrooms. The First Amendment is a pillar of our democracy. As federal regulators, we must respect the rule of law, uphold the Constitution, and ensure that a free press is never subjected to regulatory interference by the FCC.” The FCC’s News Distortion Policy was created in 1949 and has been criticized from time to time over the years. It has rarely been invoked until now. A Petition for Special Relief before the FCC signed by 11 people, including former FCC Chairman Thomas E. Wheeler, asks that the Commission repeal the news distortion policy. They cite case law, saying, “In Moody v. NetChoice, LLC, the Supreme Court, applying the First Amendment, reaffirmed that the government has no role in ‘un-biasing’ the media. In direct contradiction to that decision, the news distortion policy seeks to mold the speech of private broadcasters to the FCC’s own view of what is correct, complete, and accurate news. The First Amendment forbids the government from embarking on such a project.”
partnership is “a testament to The Washington Post‘s continued investment in high-impact audio journalism and innovative podcast storytelling. By adopting Triton’s integrated suite, the company gains access to scalable infrastructure and tools purpose-built to support growth.” Triton Digital president and CEO John Rosso adds, “At Triton, we look forward to supporting The Washington Post as they expand their digital audio presence. This partnership reflects the power of Triton’s technology and our commitment to helping premium publishers grow and monetize their audio strategies at scale.”
The dividend will be paid on December 12, 2025, to shareholders of record on November 24, 2025. The aggregate amount of the payment to be made in connection with the quarterly dividend will be approximately $1.6 million. The quarterly dividend will be funded by cash on the company’s balance sheet. Including this dividend, Saga Communications will have paid over $141 million in dividends to shareholders since the first special dividend was paid in 2012.
advertisers and publishers across traditional and digital channels. Naylor will ensure the measurement company is meeting the needs of a wide array of clients, while working with Nielsen’s sales, product and research teams to help partners enhance their businesses.” Nielsen CEO Karthik Rao says, “The key to Nielsen’s continued success is working closely with our clients to build the best marketing intelligence platform in the world. Peter is the perfect person to help that mission, building on Nielsen’s momentum of Big Data + Panel measurement, live streaming innovation and our AI transformation. He has led teams across linear TV, streaming and social media. He knows what consumers and clients want – and need – as behaviors continue to evolve. We can’t wait to keep building with him and our partners.”
to develop, produce, and own all content. Shots Podcast Network shows include “Full Send Podcast,” hosted by Kyle Forgeard; “One Night with Steiny,” featuring Aaron “Steiny” Steinberg; and “The Rush with Maxx,” hosted by NFL star Maxx Crosby.Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network president Collin Jones says, “Shots is one of the most dynamic and influential creator networks in media today. Their fearless approach to content and ability to engage millions of fans makes them a perfect fit for the Cumulus Podcast Network. We’re thrilled to welcome John, and the entire Shots team.”
show, “Hoops Talk.” Sliwa will provide expert insight, analysis and commentary across AM 570 LA SPORTS content throughout the NBA season, including featured segments available on the iHeartRadio app. Sliwa previously served on the Lakers Radio broadcast in pre-game, halftime, and post-game coverage. KLAC program director Brian Long says, “Allen is one of the premier voices covering the Lakers. With the excitement surrounding the team this season, his perspective and passion will be a great addition to our coverage and valuable voice for Lakers fans in Southern California and across the country.”
November 10 at the age of 51. Adams, whose real name was Michael Paul Kunkle, began his media career in the print industry at the Harrison City Post (PA) while in high school. He transitioned to radio and served with stations including WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte; KTRH-AM, Houston, WYAY-FM, Atlanta and KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh, where he was program director. He launched his consultancy, Marshall Adams Media, in 2012.
About his show, McCullough says, “‘That KEVIN Show’ doesn’t whisper opinions – it detonates them. In a media world allergic to truth and humor, we bring both, with a healthy dose of common sense. I’m deeply thankful for the opportunity to grow this show with the team at Salem, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead.” McCullough is already in the Salem sphere as a columnist for Townhall.com and a regular contributor to the Salem News Channel and BizTV. Salem SVP of spoken word format Phil Boyce comments, “Kevin McCullough is one of the most engaging communicators in talk radio. He brings a bold voice with strong convictions, a great sense of humor, and a deep faith that shines through in every broadcast. We’re thrilled to welcome That KEVIN Show to SRN and know it will connect powerfully with listeners across both our news/talk and Christian talk stations.” The KEVIN Show will also produce weekend editions airing from 8:00 am to 10:00 am ET on the Salem News Channel and 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm ET on SRN Radio.
One of my first jobs out of college was working in the marketing department of WNBC-AM, New York. Yes, “Imus In The Morning” (Don Imus – not nice), Cousin Brucie (Bruce Morrow – nicest star who ever lived). One of my tasks was to pull ratings numbers from the computer for the sales department. I was fascinated by TIME SPENT LISTENING (TSL) and CUME numbers. I’d rank them, compare, trend them every way imaginable.
chairman and CEO Bob Pittman comments, “We’re pleased with our third quarter performance, generating Adjusted EBITDA of $205 million, slightly above the midpoint of our guidance range, and our consolidated revenue was down 1.1% compared to prior year, at the high end of our guidance, and up 2.8% excluding political revenue. And we continue to take important steps in the evolution of our company – last week we announced our new relationship with Amazon Ads, which will provide advertisers using Amazon DSP access to our vast audio portfolio, and just this morning we announced our new TikTok partnership, which will bring TikTok creators into iHeart’s ecosystem. We are committed to exploring new ways to unlock the value of our unparalleled assets, maximizing the unique position we occupy in the evolving media landscape, and creating innovative cross-platform opportunities to bring new products and services to our consumers and our advertising partners.”
revenue was $51.3 million, a decline of 12.6% from the same period in 2024. The company’s broadcast revenue was $40.7 million, down 11.5% from Q3 of 2024, and digital media revenue was $10.5 million, down 3% from the same period a year ago. The company posted a net loss of $2.3 million compared to the net loss of $6.6 million it posted in Q3 of 2024.
comments, “I’m honored and excited to take on this new role and continue building on the incredible momentum our teams have created. Bonneville Seattle is home to passionate, talented individuals who care deeply about our brands, our partners, and our community. I look forward to helping us grow even stronger – together.” Bonneville Seattle SVP and market manager Cathy Cangiano states, “Crista has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to relationship-building. Her promotion is a testament to the impact she’s made and the confidence we have in her ability to lead us into the future. Crista was the clear choice for this role, and I’m thrilled to partner with her as we shape the next chapter for Bonneville Seattle. Her vision and energy will be instrumental in our continued growth.”
more than 20 years in Florida talk radio, Don Miller has built a reputation for being candid, unfiltered and deeply connected to the community.” Company market manager John Griffo says, “We’re thrilled to welcome Don back home to Florida Man Radio. He brings a voice that’s bold, thought-provoking, and completely authentic — exactly what Florida Man Radio is all about.” Flordia Man Radio is heard on WZLB, Ft. Walton Beach; WYOO, Panama City; and WYGC, Gainesville. JVC Broadcasting CEO John Caracciolo says there are more affiliate stations coming for the format. “Florida Man Radio is one of the most real and entertaining talk networks on the air right now,” said Caracciolo. “We’re building something different — live, local, and full of personality. This is talk radio the way it’s supposed to be, unfiltered and unafraid.”