Welcome to TALKERS magazine!

TALKERS magazine is the leading trade publication serving the talk media industries in America. The term “talk media” includes broadcast talk radio and television, cable news/talk television, as well as the new talk media delivered via the internet, podcasting and satellite radio.

On this site you will find brief opening excerpts from the current stories in each monthly print edition of TALKERS magazine. Plus, you will find free online versions of some of the publication’s most popular features including NewsNotes, the Week in Review, the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America (The Heavy Hundred), the Top Talk Radio Audiences, the Talk Radio Research Project™ and classified advertising.

You will also find coverage of TALKERS magazine sponsored industry events such as the annual New Media Seminar and the publication’s many seminars and radio rows. Stay tuned to TALKERS.COM for ongoing updates and changes.

U.S. Iraq and Afghanistan Operations Most-Talked-About Topic on News/Talk Radio for Week of August 30 – September 3. The exit of U.S. combat troops from Iraq, the ongoing operations in Afghanistan and the Obama Administration’s handling of both was the top talk radio topic during the week of August 30 through September 3 according to TALKERS magazine’s “Talkers Ten” – a weekly survey of issues talked about on news/talk radio across the country. Following close behind were the recession and the Obama Administration’s economic policy and the 2010 mid-term elections in November combined with the primary elections. You can view the complete “Talkers Ten” chart of the week’s top talk topics by clicking the banner below. (September 2, 2010)

WQXI, Atlanta Names Barnhart and Durham Midday Hosts. Lincoln Financial Media’s sports WQXI, Atlanta announces Tony Barnhart and Wes Durham are being paired up for the 11:00 am to 1:00 pm show on the station. Barnhart is a longtime sports columnist for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and host his own show on the CBS College Sports Network. Durham is an award-winning Georgia sportscaster who serves as play-by-play announcer for Georgia Tech football and basketball and for the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons. WQXI VP/GM Andrew Saltzman says, “Barnhart and Durham will provide sports fans uncanny knowledge, tremendous depth into the college and pro football landscape and the most high-profile guests in sports radio. Finally, listeners get what they’ve wanted for a long time — a daily show talking football with Tony and Wes.” The time slot was previously held by Brandon Adams and Jeff Woolverton. Adams left the station to return to school. Woolverton’s role with the station at this time is unknown. (September 2, 2010)

KMOX, St. Louis Gets Cardinals Baseball Back. CBS Radio’s KMOX, St. Louis gets MLB’s St. Louis Cardinals back on its airwaves in a new, multi-year deal after five years on crosstown KTRS. The Cards had a 51-year relationship with KMOX before jumping to KTRS in a complicated revenue-ownership sharing deal with the station owners. KMOX says the Cardinals are continuing to produce and sell the games. Mike Shannon and John Rooney remain in the booth for the games. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Bonneville’s new sports talker WXOS-FM put in a competitive bid but the team chose KMOX. Cardinals president Bill DeWitt III says, “KTRS has been a great partner and we are grateful for everything they have done over the last five years. While we explored our options, the case for going back to KMOX was very compelling.” The news will be well received by Cards fans as the KTRS night signal is spotty compared to KMOX’s. How this will affect KTRS programming and business model is yet to be seen as the station was re-built around Cardinals baseball when the rights were acquired. (September 2, 2010)

Mediator Named in Tribune Bankruptcy Case. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court is naming federal judge Kevin Gross mediator for the Tribune Company’s bankruptcy case. Gross’ job is to help iron out the issues surrounding the allegation that the 2007 buyout of the company was a fraudulent transfer that put $8 billion in debt on Tribune and left the company in an impossible hole. Lower-ranking creditors argue the larger creditors, such as JP Morgan Chase, should not be the first-to-be-paid as the 2007 deal left the company insolvent. The current reorganization plan also would not allow creditors to sue insiders and the lenders that financed the deal. (September 2, 2010)

Slutzkin Named WLS, Chicago PD. Citadel announces Tracy Slutzkin takes the title of program director at WLS, Chicago after serving as APD and executive producer for the past four years. Slutzkin works with operations manager Drew Hayes who has been handling the ops/programmer duties for both WLS and WMAL, Washington, DC. Slutzkin had served as producer for the Don Wade & Roma show before exiting the station. She returned in 2006. (September 2, 2010)

Leslie Marshall Show Added to Armed Forces Radio Network. The independently syndicated Leslie Marshall show is to be added to the Armed Forces Radio Network lineup beginning in October. (September 2, 2010)

Austin Hill Adds Fresno Show to Duties. Peak Broadcasting’s KIDO, Boise PM drive talk host Austin Hill pulls double duty and begins hosting the 9:00 am to 11:00 am show at Peak’s KMJ-FM, Fresno. (September 2, 2010)

Heisman Trophy Winner Gino Torretta Joins WQAM, Miami. Beasley’s WQAM, Miami announces former Miami Hurricanes QB Gino Torretta and Steve White are the new 10:00 am to 12:00 noon hosts. They replace Orlando Alzugaray who moves to the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm slot. The changes mean current evening host Kevin Rogers is bumped to part-timer status. White previously was program director of crosstown WAXY. (September 2, 2010)

KCSP, Kansas City Radiothon Raises Cash for Children’s Shelter. Entercom’s sports talker KCSP, Kansas City raises more than $100,000 during its Larry Stewart Memorial Radiothon for the Salvation Army Children’s Shelter of Kansas City. Program director Ryan Maguire reports the $105,000 in pledges topped the previous year’s $93,000 taken in. KCSP personalities Bob Fescoe, Josh Klingler, Shan Shariff, and Nick Wright broadcast in separate shifts between 6:00 am and 7:00 pm on August 26 from Crown Center in downtown Kansas City. (September 2, 2010)

United States’ Iraq Policy Tops News/Talk Radio Discussion for August 31. The United States’ official removal of combat troops from Iraq and President Obama’s planned Oval Office speech for Tuesday evening on the Iraq operations were the most-talked-about topics on news/talk radio on Tuesday, August 31 according to TALKERS magazine data. The topic trumped other discussions including the arrest of two Yemeni-born men possibly involved in a terror attack “dry run” aboard a United Airlines plane from Chicago to Amsterdam, the ongoing chatter about talk host Glenn Beck’s weekend rally in Washington, DC and talk about the flagging U.S. economy. (August 31, 2010)

Larry Gifford Leaves PD Post at KSPN, Los Angeles. Gifford has been programming ESPN O&O KSPN, Los Angeles for the past four years. Now, he announces he’ll leave the station to begin a consulting firm. Gifford has also worked at ESPN Radio at the network level and Fox Sports Radio. Gifford’s departure is effective September 13 and KSPN has not named a successor. (September 1, 2010)

Glenn Beck Debuts New Web News Site. It’s called TheBlaze.com and contains news and opinion pieces. Managing editor for the site is former Breitbart staffer Scott Baker. Meredith Jessup is assistant editor. In addition to original news stories, the site also serves as a portal to wire stories and features a blog function. About the site, Beck writes, “Too many important stories are overlooked…And too many times we see mainstream media outlets distorting facts to fit rigid agendas…We want this to be a place where you can find breaking news, original reporting, insightful opinions and engaging videos about the stories that matter most.” (September 1, 2010)

Bonneville-owned Deseret News Moves Newspaper Operations in with KSL-AM/FM and TV. Deseret Management Corporation is a subsidiary of Bonneville International that operated the Salt Lake City media outlets news/talk KSL-AM/FM, KSL-TV and daily newspaper the Deseret News. The company is moving the newspaper’s operations in with the radio and TV station in a consolidation plan that is designed to streamline the news operation. However, as a result, some 43% of the newspaper’s staff – 85 newsroom positions – is being let go. Deseret News president and CEO Clark Gilbert tells the AP, “Our plan actually expands news coverage and analysis even in the face of the economic realities we face. There isn’t a newspaper in the country that is not facing economic pressures. We can make simple cost reductions or innovate and lead.” (September 1, 2010)

Wise Suspended by Washington Post. WJFK-FM, Washington sports talker Mike Wise has been suspended by his other employer, The Washington Post where he writes a column, for purposely sending a false news report via his Twitter account. Wise tweeted that Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had been suspended for five games by the league in order to prove people will believe anything and the press will report anything. Wise has been given a one-month suspension by the paper. It also sent a memo to all employees to remind them they represent the paper even when using personal social media. (September 1, 2010)

Beasley Extends Contract with WQAM’s Joe Rose. WQAM, Miami morning drive host Joe Rose will remain with the Beasley sports outlet through September of 2013 after signing a two-year contract extension. The former Miami Dolphins tight end has been with WQAM for 20 years. He is a member of the Dolphins radio broadcast team and also is sports anchor for WTVJ-TV, Miami. On signing the new deal Rose states, “It brings me great pleasure to continue my weekday mornings behind the microphone and also my affiliation with South Florida’s top sports station. I’m very excited about the direction WQAM is taking.” (September 1, 2010)

WTKS-FM, Orlando’s Monsters in the Morning Promote Successful Gun Buyback Program. WTKS-FM, Orlando’s Russ Rollins-led “Monsters in the Morning” program worked with the Florida law enforcement to promote the recent “Kicks for Guns” program that involves exchanging unwanted guns for new pairs of sneakers. Rollins tells TALKERS magazine was a huge success with 1356 unwanted guns taken off the streets. Rollins notes at least three of the guns were stolen and some 45 illegal shotguns were collected. (September 1, 2010)

WFAN, New York Names Winner of Fantasy Phenom Contest. CBS Radio’s WFAN, New York announces Manalapan, New Jersey resident Gregg Sussman is the winner of its “Fantasy Phenom” contest and will get a weekly sports talk show on WFAN for one year. Sussman and four other finalists competed to get a shot at hosting his own sports talk show in a summer-long promotion sponsored by Buffalo Wild Wings. While Sussman gets the one-year show, the other finalists each will host one program on the station as consolation. (September 1, 2010)

TRN’s Rusty Humphries Takes Active Role in Tea Party Movement. Talk Radio Network nationally syndicated host Rusty Humphries is working with two Tea Party-affiliated organizations – Jointheteaparty.us and Liberty in America – to help promote the movement. Humphries is emceeing a Liberty in America event in Las Vegas tonight (9/1) and plans to organize Tea Party events in conjunction with affiliate stations. He’ll also play a role in the 9/12 taxpayer march on Washington, DC. (September 1, 2010)

Alden Global Capital Sinks Emmis Go-Private Bid. After four months of negotiations and Emmis working to bring a group of preferred shareholders on board who had locked-up to prevent the deal under the initial terms, now financial backer Alden Global Capital takes itself out of the deal that would have sold Emmis to Jeff Smulyan’s JS Acquisition. Emmis issued a statement late Monday saying that although negotiations are ongoing, it doesn’t believe it will be able to come to terms with both Alden and the group of preferred shareholders. It appears that a pact had been struck with the preferred shareholders but Alden then balked. (August 31, 2010)

Lincoln Financial Media Buys Big League Broadcasting. Big League was operating sports WQXI, Atlanta under an LMA from Lincoln Financial but now buys the company’s assets and keeps Big League’s co-presidents on board. Co-president Andrew Saltzman is named the GM for the sports talker while co-president Steak Shapiro (also co-host of the morning drive show) is named brand manager for the station. Rick Mack is GM for LFM’s other radio property in Atlanta – CHR WSTR-FM – and he becomes the SVP/GM with Saltzman and Shapiro reporting to him. Big League had recently sold its St. Louis operations after never really achieving the kind of success it had hoped for in that market. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. (August 31, 2010)

Beck Rally and Obama Economic Performance Top Talk Radio Topics for August 30. The aftermath of Glenn Beck’s “Restoring Honor” rally at the National Mall in Washington, DC on Saturday and the Obama Administration’s handling of the economy were two of the top issues discussed on news/talk radio on Monday, August 30 according to TALKERS magazine’s research. Government employment and production figures indicate a slowing in the recovery that the administration had touted earlier in the year and the president addressed the issue today. Also, the media coverage of Glenn Beck’s rally in DC (not to mention the squabble over just how many people were actually there) and the conservative talk star’s increasingly religious message was front and center on many news/talk outlets. (August 30, 2010)

WJFK-FM, Washington Host Mike Wise Tweets Phony News to Prove Point. Midday talk host and Washington Post columnist Mike Wise used his Twitter account to “report” that Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had been suspended for five games just to show that journalists will print anything and people will believe it. While there has been no formal punishment from either CBS Radio or the Post, the paper did memo its staff reminding them that reporters using social media still represent the paper whether it’s a personal account or not. (August 31, 2010)

Norm Pattiz Retires as Westwood One Chairman of the Board. Westwood One founder Norman Pattiz is retiring and will be chairman emeritus of the WW1 board of directors. Pattiz has signed a contract to serve as a consultant to the company. Mark Stone, senior managing director of the Gores Group is taking over as chairman. In a statement, Pattiz says, “I’ve been sitting in the same seat for over 30 years and will continue to do so as a consultant to the company. I am, however, relinquishing my seat at the board table. This allows me to play an active role at the company I founded, working with people that I admire and respect, while continuing the other activities that are very important to me.” (August 30, 2010)

Steve Carver Heads Up CBS Radio’s L.A. Cluster. CBS Radio announces Steve Carver is the new SVP and market manager for its Los Angeles stations that include news/talk KFWB and all-news KNX. Most recently Carver was publisher, president and CEO of the Hartford Courant but he served as GM at WBBM, Chicago and WGN, Chicago in the past. CBS Radio president and CEO Dan Mason says, “Those who have worked closely with Steve, myself included, boast about his exceptional leadership and depth of knowledge that only comes from years of experience overseeing radio and television stations, and a newspaper. Elevating Steve to this new role will make the most of his considerable talent.” Carver replaces Ed Krampf who leaves the company. (August 30, 2010)

Journal Names Dominic Fails VP of Sales. Journal Broadcast Group announces Dominic Fails is being named vice president of sales making him responsible for developing sales strategy for local, national, digital and new media advertising at the company’s 13 television and 33 radio stations. Journal chairman and CEO Steven J. Smith says, “Dominic is a proven leader who will work with our entire management team as we continue to provide multiple marketing solutions for our customers across the Journal Broadcast Group local markets.” (August 31, 2010)

WXKS, Boston to Host Congressional Debate. Clear Channel’s WXKS, Boston – Rush Radio 1200 – is hosting the two Republican candidates for the Congressional seat being vacated by Democrat William Delahunt. Former Massachusetts Treasurer Joe Malone and Jeff Perry will face off at 7:00 am on Wednesday, September 1 as morning host Jeff Katz moderates the debate. (August 30, 2010)

Matt Patrick Takes Over AM Drive in Michiana. Federated Media announces Matt Patrick is hired to take over the morning show host duties at the Michiana market’s WTRC-FM (licensed to Niles, Michigan and simulcast on WTRC-AM, Elkhart, Indiana). Program director Jon Zimney tells TALKERS magazine, “Not only am I excited about the future opportunities and new heights that lie ahead for the morning program, I am also excited about Matt’s abilities and experience he brings as a aggressive ‘street spokesman’ for the radio station, and as a proven leader in gaining commercial sponsors and endorsements.” Patrick worked most recently at WTAM, Cleveland and WLW, Cincinnati but spent most of his radio career before that as morning personality at Hot AC WKDD-FM, Canton/Akron. Current morning host Gary Sieber leaves the station to work outside the radio business. (August 30, 2010)

WWBA, Tampa Expands Chris Markowski to Three Hours. Markowski, who also hosts the nationally syndicated weekend program “Watchdog on Wall Street” via Talk Radio Network, has his PM drive show on Genesis’ WWBA, Tampa expanded from two hours to three airing from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Markowski says, “I just did not have enough time in two hours to answer all the calls from listeners and cover all the topics that were on people’s minds.” (August 30, 2010)

Glenn Beck Shows Power of His Brand with Big Turnout at DC Rally. Premiere Radio Networks and Fox News Channel superstar Glenn Beck’s “Restoring Honor” rally at the National Mall in Washington, DC on Saturday drew a huge crowd — between 78,000 and 96,000 according to AirPhotosLive.com. However, other news organizations pegged the total at more than 100,000 with some estimates going as high as between 300,000 and 500,000 people. Beck said some $5.5 million was raised for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation benefitting veterans and their families. The controversial gathering – due largely to the fact that it took place 47 years to the day after Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech at the same site – was billed by Beck as a non-political event to honor America’s military personnel and celebrate America’s heritage. But the overriding theme of Beck’s speech was religious. Beck’s conversion to Mormonism and his years as a drug and alcohol abuser are well known to his fans and those in the industry. But media observers have noted the increased religious message being incorporated into his programs. At the rally, Beck’s theme was that there are no problems the nation can’t solve if it turns to God as its Founding Fathers intended. Industry insiders are watching Beck’s use of this new religious message to see how his audience responds through the traditionally secular media that are talk radio and news/talk television. TALKERS magazine calculates the event was one of, if not, the largest commercial media promotional events in history in terms of audience turnout and media coverage. (August 30, 2010)

Randy Michaels Fires Back with Positive Financial News for Tribune. Less than a week after it was reported that Tribune creditors are working on alternative scenarios for the company’s exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection that include bringing former ABC/Disney CEO Michael Eisner in as chairman of the board, Tribune CEO Randy Michaels reports the first half of 2010 has seen marked improvement. Michaels stated, “Despite the noise surrounding our Chapter 11 process and a tough economic environment, we have not only stabilized our business, but in 2010 we have grown operating cash flow — and we’re really just getting started.” Michaels reports that from January through July operating cash flow is up 44% from same period a year ago. (August 30, 2010)

Emmis Go-Private Plan Still in Limbo. On Friday, for the fifth consecutive time, Emmis was forced to adjourn a meeting of private shareholders and will announce soon when the next meeting is scheduled. Jeff Smulyan’s attempt to take the company private is being hamstrung by a group of private shareholders who’ve locked up the deal because they don’t like the proposed swap of their private stock for notes due in 2017. They would be getting 60 cents on the dollar for their stock but would earn 12% interest on the notes. Emmis is still negotiating with the group. (August 30, 2010)

PD Mike Dirkx Exits Clear Channel Portland. Talk programmer Mike Dirkx leaves his position as PD of news/talk KEX and progressive talk KPOJ, Portland. The company confirms it is now looking for a new programmer to steer the stations. (August 30, 2010)

KESN-FM, Dallas Adds Drew Pearson to Station Lineup. ESPN O&O KESN-FM, Dallas brings Dallas Cowboys great Drew Pearson aboard to co-host the Cowboys post-game show alongside RJ Choppy and Bryan Broaddus. Pearson will also make weekly appearances on the Ben & Skin and Galloway and Company shows. KESN-FM GM Pete Dits says, “We are thrilled to add the ‘Original 88’ to our football coverage. Drew is now a seasoned media veteran who will provide a wealth of NFL knowledge and candid opinions on what happened on the field.” (August 30, 2010)

Montemayor Leaves Sporting News Radio. Sports talk host Tim Montemayor announces he’s left the Sporting News Radio network’s evening show and is seeking his next opportunity. Recently the network has signed on some new talent including Steve Czaban and Bruce Jacobs and appears to be re-tooling its roster of talent as it heads into the fall. (August 30, 2010)

Ground Zero Mosque Controversy Tops Talk Radio Topics for Second Straight Week. The ongoing public debate over the mosque and community center project near Ground Zero in New York City remained the most-talked-about topic on news/talk radio for the week of August 23-27. Following close behind were discussion of the week’s primary elections and the coming 2010 mid-term elections at number two and the recession and employment figures and the Obama Administration’s handling of the economy at number three. (August 27, 2010)

Back to Radio for Larry King? The entertainment news site TMZ.com is reporting that Ryan Seacrest is talking with retiring CNN talk host Larry King about creating a new nationally syndicated radio program as part of what it terms a “mega-media deal.” Seacrest’s contract as a radio host with Clear Channel will expire in November and there is speculation he will not renew but instead form his own multi-media production company. As for Larry King, there has been no public comment from his camp about returning to radio. (August 27, 2010)

FCC Asks Appeals Court to Reconsider Recent Indecency Decision. In July, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit ruled that the FCC’s policy as is relates to “fleeting utterances” of words considered to be indecent was unconstitutionally vague and therefore invalid and non-enforceable. Now, the commission is asking a full panel for another look at the decision. The FCC had the option to craft new policy that would fall in line with the Court’s decision but it appears the commission is willing to see how far this will go in the courts and may be the first step in the FCC’s indecency policy going all the way to the Supreme Court. TALKERS magazine legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman notes that this may not be a winning move. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has written that, “Red Lion and Pacifica were unconvincing when they were issued, and the passage of time has only increased doubt regarding their continued validity” and the ruling in these two cases had made a “deep intrusion into the First Amendment rights of broadcasters.” (August 27, 2010)

Michael Eisner Rumored to Be Angling for Tribune Chairman Post. Published reports indicate that, according to those close to former ABC/Disney CEO Michael Eisner, he may be recruited to head up Tribune after its exit from bankruptcy protection. John Angelo is co-founder of Angelo, Gordon & Co. – one of Tribune’s senior creditors – and Angelo is reportedly very close to Eisner. Eisner is believed to be in talks to become the chairman of the board of a newly reorganized Tribune Co., replacing Sam Zell. However there are major legal hurdles to leap before that can happen but the report quotes a friend of Eisner’s saying Eisner believes Tribune is “massively undervalued” and “if managed properly could be turned around.” The story indicates that Eisner would like to bring Comcast executive Jeff Shell aboard to replace CEO Randy Michaels. (August 26, 2010)

Mark Levin-Backed Candidates Succeeding in Primary Elections. It has long been debated whether or not talk radio hosts, through their shows, have actual influence on the outcome of political races. While the recent list of candidates winning their primary races after being backed by Citadel Media nationally syndicated talk host Mark Levin is not scientific proof of the power of talk radio to influence elections, it certainly is interesting. Arch-conservative Levin has been involved in endorsing, both on his show and on the candidates’ websites: Nevada U.S. Senate candidate Sharron Angle, Alaska U.S. Senate candidate Joe Miller, Arizona U.S. House candidate Jesse Kelly, and Florida U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio – all of whom won their primary election races. (August 27, 2010)

Smerconish Helps Raise Funds for Flight 93 National Memorial Fund. WPHT, Philadelphia-based talk host Michael Smerconish is collaborating with Philadelphia jeweler Steven Singer to create the 9/11 Never Forget Pin being sold for $10 to raise money for the Flight 93 National Memorial Fund in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The effort raised more than $30,000 in 2009 and so far in 2010, some $20,000 has been raised. Smerconish has been publicizing the pin on his radio show and listeners are responding to the cause. Additionally, Steven Singer is contributing the cost of shipping the pins to buyers. (August 27, 2010)

Clear Channel Distances Itself from Talk Host’s Homosexual Remarks. Clear Channel took the unusual step of publicly disagreeing with one of its talk show hosts yet not meting out a suspension or any other action. WHO, Des Moines talk host Jan Mickelson criticized Iowa Republican Party Chairman Matt Strawn for coming down on a candidate who had made comments critical of gays on his Facebook page. Mickelson challenged the statement “HIV/AIDS does not discriminate” calling homosexuality a “sexual disorder” and “intrinsically promiscuous.” Clear Channel management read a statement on air before Mickelson’s Thursday (8/26) program that said, in part, Mickelson “confused strong opinion with medical fact” and “Mr. Mickelson’s comments do not reflect the opinions of Clear Channel, nor do they reflect the ongoing support Clear Channel provides to public service campaigns such as ‘Greater than AIDS,’ that works to convey the message that AIDS does not discriminate. We regret any confusion about HIV/AIDS that may have resulted from Mr. Mickelson’s remarks.” (August 27, 2010)

Phil Valentine Releases Music Video in Advance of New Movie. Nationally syndicated talk show host Phil Valentine has released a music video from his year-in-the-making motion picture titled, “An Inconsistent Truth,” a documentary Valentine calls “a fact-filled odyssey sprinkled with humor where I go on a year-long journey to uncover the real truth about global warming.” Valentine says the film is in the final production phase and he’s in the process of securing distribution for a national theatrical release. The video and song, titled “The Tip of the Spear,” can be viewed here and features the work of music business veteran Bill Cuomo. Valentine tells TALKERS magazine, “It occurred to me as I was making these tea party appearances that those in attendance represented millions of Americans who felt just as they do. As I looked out at these audiences I thought how these folks are just the tip of the spear.” (August 26, 2010)

WRKO, Boston Adds Daily Financial Show. Entercom’s WRKO, Boston cuts an hour off midday talk host Charley Manning’s 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm program to make room for “Lunch Money with Barry Armstrong” from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm beginning September 9. The station says the show will offer daily business and financial news, and will feature several regularly scheduled guests including Larry Kudlow from CNBC who will join Armstrong for a regular segment on Fridays. In addition, experts from Bloomberg News and the Wall Street Journal will make weekly appearances on the show. Entercom New England VP of AM programming Jason Wolfe says in a statement, “The content of this show is extremely important to our listeners. The business and financial arena is one that is still very top of mind given the current state of the economy, and Barry’s knowledge and expertise will provide a terrific forum for the WRKO audience.” (August 26, 2010)

KFAN, Minneapolis Gets An FM Simulcast. Clear Channel sports talk outlet KFAN, Minneapolis is now heard on the FM band in the Twin Cities – on translator K279AZ at 103.7 in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. The translator broadcasts an HD sub-channel of news/talk KTLK-FM which has been airing KFAN. (August 27, 2010)

The Recession, Primary Election Aftermath and Mosque Controversy Among Top Talk Radio Topics Yesterday. There was no clear-cut topic that dominated the news/talk radio airwaves on Wednesday, August 25. Post-primary election analysis, discussion of the Obama Administration’s handling of the shaky economy and the ongoing talk about the Ground Zero mosque project were the most-talked-about issues heard across the country. (August 26, 2010)

BIA/Kelsey Predicts 4.4% Increase in Radio Revenue for 2010. BIA/Kelsey’s most recent quarterly “Investing in Radio Market Report” concludes that radio’s over-the-air revenue will be up 4.4% over last year totaling $13.93 billion. BIA/Kelsey vice president Mark Fratrik says, “We’re glad to see positive growth in most U.S. radio markets but still feel there remains enough uncertainty in the country’s overall economic performance to tread carefully stepping into the second half of the year. Radio’s performance this year will largely be driven by the success of the top markets. However, its impact will resonate to smaller ones.” The report breaks the industry down by market and notes the top 10 markets should see an increase of 6.26% from 2009. (August 26, 2010)

Evan Harrison to Exit Clear Channel at Year’s End. Harrison has served as EVP of online music & radio at Clear Channel since 2004 and he’s been responsible for spearheading the company’s iheartradio mobile app and web player. Now, he announces he’ll leave his position at the end of his contract to pursue other challenges. Harrison came to Clear Channel from AOL. In a memo to employees, Clear Channel president and CEO John Hogan wrote, “As each of you knows, the media landscape has changed fundamentally and I’ve appreciated Evan’s contributions in building our digital platform for nearly six years.” (August 26, 2010)

Wilkinson Named Executive Producer of Lou Dobbs Show. United Stations Radio Networks announces Chad Wilkinson takes over the executive producer post at the nationally syndicated Lou Dobbs show. Wilkinson fills the role left by Slade Sohmer who exits to take a new position outside the radio business. Sohmer had served as Dobbs’ producer since September of 2008. In Wilkinson’s 15-years of experience in talk radio he’s worked at WPHT and the old WWDB-FM in Philadelphia, served as production director at XM Satellite Radio and was a producer/writer at Westwood One working with Lars Larson, Dennis Miller and Ron Insana. (August 26, 2010)

Programming Management Changes at Mid-West Family’s Springfield, Illinois Cluster. Mid-West Family Broadcasting announces a number of changes at its Springfield, Illinois cluster, including at news/talk WMAY. Susan Groves is now OM for the entire cluster; WMAY news and program director Jim Leach becomes news director for the cluster while maintaining his PD post at WMAY; and Chris Murphy becomes news anchor and APD at WMAY in addition to other duties within the cluster. (August 26, 2010)

KFGO, Fargo Hires Former TV Newscaster. Ingstad Radio’s KFGO, Fargo brings former KXJB-TV news anchor Michelle Turnberg to anchor its hour-long “Live at Five” newswheel. The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead reports Turnberg was let go by the television station in June and Turnberg’s deal with KFGO is a part-time position. Turnberg was voted the market’s best TV anchor by Forum readers in 2009. (August 26, 2010)

The Washington Times Sold to Other Unification Church Business. Yesterday TALKERS magazine reported on the speculation that the troubled Washington, DC daily newspaper with a connection to talk radio was on the verge of going under if not sold soon. Now, according to Politico.com, the conservative paper has been sold from Preston Moon’s News World Communications to another arm of the Unification Church: News World Media Development. The Washington Times has a content-providing deal with Talk Radio Network for the nationally syndicated “America’s Morning News” program. (August 26, 2010)

Primary Elections/2010 Mid-Terms Top Talk Radio Topic for August 24. The August 24 primary elections in four states – including high-profile races in Arizona and Florida – combined with the important mid-term elections in which Republicans hope to regain control of Congress topped the chatter on news/talk radio Tuesday (8/24). The contentious election season pushed the Ground Zero mosque controversy out of the top spot for the first time in almost a week. (August 24, 2010)

Scarborough Tips Fans He’s Set to Return to WABC, New York. Joe Scarborough tweeted that he and co-host Mika Brzenzski will be back on the radio soon after an almost five-month hiatus. In April, Citadel Media announced the company was putting the show on hold as it planned to re-tool the program. The announcement has not been confirmed by Citadel Media nor did Scarborough say when the show will return. It previously aired in the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon slot on WABC, New York and was offered in national syndication. Scarborough and Brzenzski co-host the “Morning Joe” morning drive show that airs on cable news/talk channel MSNBC. (August 24, 2010)

WIP’s Anthony Gargano Joins Fox Sports Radio Network. The hiring continues at Los Angeles-based Fox Sports Radio Network as WIP, Philadelphia talk host Anthony Gargano becomes part of the network for an on-air role in a yet-to-be-announced time slot. Gargano co-hosts the 10:00 am to 3:00 pm show at CBS Radio’s WIP with Glen Macnow and he’s expected to continue in that role. Fox Sports Radio recently hired sports media personalities Pat O’Brien and Mike North as it prepares to add to its lineup. (August 24, 2010)

Lionel to Speak at Empire State Building Rally. Talk personality Lionel, whose PodJockey-powered media station, LionelMedia.com, has become an industry model of the combined free and premium content platform, will be one of the main speakers at a rally at the Empire State Building (ESB) in New York City tomorrow (8/26). The event is being organized by the Catholic League to protest the decision by ESB officials not to light the iconic landmark’s towers blue and white in honor of Mother Teresa’s centenary. Lionel tells TALKERS magazine, “There can be no other explanation as to why this recognition of Mother Teresa, Nobel Peace Prize recipient whom the United States Postal Service also honored with a stamp, has been refused by ESB management other than boneheaded anti-Catholic bigotry — and inconsistent bigotry at that. The ESB has honored and recognized among others, a Mariah Carey album as well as the 60th anniversary of the Chinese Revolution. Officials made some half-hearted suggestion that it is their custom to refuse to recognize religion-centered notables. And that makes absolutely no sense because it honored the passing of Pope John Paul II and New York’s Cardinal O’Connor. I’m honored to make my objections clearly and precisely known.” Lionel has been gaining a growing number of subscribers to his talk-oriented website via use of social media, word-of-mouth, promotion on his nightly WPIX-TV, New York (Channel 11) commentary and guest appearances on terrestrial radio talk shows around the country. Hosts and stations interested in booking Lionel as a guest to provide his unique brand of satirical insight in discussing such topics as Roger Clemens and the Fifth Amendment, Rod Blagojevich’s conviction and retrial, the mosque in New York and First Amendment considerations, and the demise of American pop culture should contact lynn@lionelmedia.com. (August 25, 2010)

Speculation Points to Possible End for The Washington Times. The Washington Examiner reports that the Rev. Sun Myung Moon’s Unification Church-owned Washington Times newspaper is very close to publishing its final edition if a last-minute offer to buy the paper from an undisclosed bidder is not accepted. As TALKERS readers are aware, The Washington Times has a content providing deal with Talk Radio Network to produce the “America’s Morning News” syndicated morning drive show. Ironically, this show is reportedly doing very well in generating both ratings and revenue and would most likely continue as a Talk Radio Network property with or without The Washington Times. Over the past year, the paper has made drastic cuts to its operations. (August 25, 2010)

WPRO, Providence Continues Election Coverage with Primary Showdowns. Citadel Communications’ WPRO, Providence promotes itself as the “station of record” in Rhode Island and as such is diligently bringing the season’s political races to listeners. The station is in its second straight week of candidate debates. This week morning drive host John DePetro serves as moderator focusing on the primary races for 2nd Congressional District on both the Republican and Democratic side plus the Republican race for Lt. Governor in advance of the state’s primary election September 15. The debates are airing from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and consist of questions from the moderator, phone and e-mail questions from listeners and candidates questioning each other. (August 25, 2010)

Genesis’ Jim Brown Show Inks Deal with Broadcast Affiliate Sales. Jim Brown’s New Orleans-based weekly talk show, “Common Sense,” is syndicated nationally by Genesis Communications Network. Brown served as a state senator in Louisiana, was secretary of state and the state’s commissioner of insurance before exiting public life. He is also a published author. Now, Brown signs a deal with Dallas-based Broadcast Affiliate Sales to handle the ad sales for his program. (August 25, 2010)

Ground Zero Mosque Controversy Continues to Dominate Talk Radio Discussion. The intense national debate over whether a mosque and community center should be built two blocks from Ground Zero in New York City was the most talked about topic on news/talk radio stations across America Monday (8/23). It was the most talked about topic all of last week and the protests near the proposed site in Manhattan over the weekend gave the issue more steam as the new week began. (August 23, 2010)

Vin Scully to Call Dodgers Games in 2011. The 82-year-old Scully – who began calling Dodgers games when the team was still in Brooklyn in 1950 – will be back in 2011 for his 61st season. Scully is heard on KABC, Los Angeles, usually for the first three innings as his play-by-play is simulcast to TV and radio. Then, Rick Monday and Charlie Steiner take over on radio and Scully stays on the TV broadcast. Scully generally calls home games and games west of the Rockies. (August 24, 2010)

Briggs Named Digital Content Development Director at Forum. Morning show co-host Tracy Briggs – who works on air alongside Erick Johnson on the “Morning Buzz” show on news/talk WDAY, Fargo — takes on the new challenge of digital content development director for the Forum Communications Interactive Media Group. In addition to radio stations, Forum operates television stations, newspapers, interactive online and printing. (August 24, 2010)

WEEI, Boston Helps Raise $3 Million to Fight Cancer. Entercom’s sports WEEI, Boston teamed up with regional cable network NESN to host the annual Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon to raise money for the children’s cancer charity. Although the goal was to raise $5 million, the effort brought in $2,944,726 – still an amazing accomplishment in a depressed economy. The annual two-day broadcast features plenty of local celebrities, Boston sports figures and young people and their families who’ve been affected by cancer. (August 24, 2010)

Journal Broadcasting Hires Financial Analysts. Journal announces it is hiring three financial analysts – all with MBAs – whose roles will be to lead “profit planning, forecasting and providing financial support to their assigned markets with the goal of driving operating earnings of their respective operational markets.” Scot Stokes will be based in Las Vegas and will focus on the Vegas and Palm Springs markets. Stacy Schmidt will be based in Wichita and focus on the Wichita, Springfield, Missouri and Tulsa markets. Guillermo Greig will be based in Ft. Meyers and will concentrate on the Ft. Myers and Knoxville markets. All three come from outside the radio business and bring the kind of number crunching analysis and forecasting experience common to many other businesses but traditionally not found in radio. (August 24, 2010)

New Sports Talk Station Debuts in Charlotte. HRN Broadcasting flips WZGV, Charlotte (licensed to Cramerton, North Carolina) from classic hits to sports using Fox Sports Radio Network programming and Premiere Radio Networks’ Jim Rome. According to the Charlotte Observer, a local morning show is planned for a start sometime in September. Former Carolina Panthers announcer Bill Rosinski is the station’s sports director and will most likely be part of the morning show. Rosinski does play-by-play for ESPN’s coverage of college football so he travels during the football season. (August 23, 2010)

Rossinsky Joins Media Management Group. Industry sales pro Jacqui Rossinsky is named senior vice president of advertising sales for New York-based Media Management Group. Prior to joining Media Management Group Rossinsky served as EVP of network operations at Interep. She also was president and COO of D&R Radio. MMG’s Warren Banholzer says, “Jacqui brings a wealth of creativity and experience to the company. She understands our business model and will be a great asset as we continue to grow.” (August 23, 2010)

RAB Reports Radio Revenue Up 6% in Second Quarter of 2010. The Radio Advertising Bureau announces local and national spot revenue combined give radio a 6% increase with a total of $3.7 billion for Q2. Additionally, while non-spot or off-air revenue was up only 1%, digital – revenue derived from radio station websites – was up 22% bringing in $157 million. RAB president and CEO Jeff Haley says, “Radio benefitted from strong returns in top advertiser categories in Q2 led by automotive, financial services, and in our largest category, communications, which grew 14%. This reinforces radio’s strategic importance to a wide range of marketers. Every revenue source is up in first half, led by digital (+22%) and national spot (+17%). The momentum we’ve built through the first half bodes well for radio compared to other traditional media going forward.” (August 23, 2010)

Professional Organization Wants “N-word” Banned by FCC. National Association of Black Journalists president Kathy Times is calling for a forum on “talk radio hate” and is suggesting it’s time to add the “n-word” to the list of words for which a broadcast outlet can be fined by the FCC. Times says, “When will people learn it’s never okay to use the n-word, no matter how many times it is uttered in the name of entertainment or disgust? As the president of the National Association of Black Journalists my goal is not to change the inherent mindset of provocateurs and consumers of any controversial media platform, but instead to lead the charge in forums that educate those who dare to think for themselves. I believe most people are open to embracing people of all races based on the content of their character. We invite Dr. Laura and Premiere Radio Networks to join us in a conversation leading to change in the public discourse, which both embraces their right to free speech and our desire to end the use of racial slurs and epithets on the public’s airwaves.” (August 23, 2010)

Emmis Go-Private Vote Delayed Again. In what’s becoming a Friday ritual, the vote of Emmis preferred stockholders on Jeff Smulyan’s plan to take the company private that would result in trading their stock for 12% notes did not take place last week. Another meeting is scheduled for Friday the 27th. However, the Indiana Business Journal reports Emmis is encouraged by recent talks with the group of preferred stockholders who’ve signed a lock-up agreement to kill the deal as it stands now and believes it may be able to strike a deal with the group that it will find attractive. (August 23, 2010)

Tribune Bankruptcy Exit Hampered by Creditors’ Withdrawl. The Associated Press reports that JP Morgan Chase and Angelo, Gordon & Company backing out of their end of the deal that would bring Tribune out of bankruptcy due to elements of the bankruptcy examiner’s report that indicates some of the negotiations in the company’s 2007 leveraged buyout to go private “bordered on fraud.” In a lawsuit filed by junior bondholders it’s alleged that Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase and others involved in financing the buyout committed fraud since they knew the deal would leave Tribune insolvent. Tribune will issue a new reorganization plan August 26 and has another hearing in Bankruptcy Court on September 15. (August 23, 2010)

Citadel Execs Get New Stock; Company to Begin Selling Stock Soon. Citadel Communications registered 10 million shares of class A stock with the Securities and Exchange Commission and issued grants of stock to top executives. CEO Farid Suleman receives 1.9 million shares of the stock, COO Judy Ellis receives 100,000 shares, CFO Randy Taylor gets 80,000, SVP and general counsel Jacquelyn Orr gets 80,000 and SVP of finance and administration Patricia Stratford receives 56,250 shares. The stock is not being publicly traded yet but Citadel estimates the maximum offer price is just over $22 per share. (August 23, 2010)

Strasser Joins Tilden in Mornings on KABC. Teresa Strasser is named co-host of the AM drive show at Citadel’s KABC, Los Angeles alongside Peter Tilden. In addition to her career as a television writer (Win Ben Stein’s Money, While You Were Out) Strasser appeared on Los Angeles radio on Adam Carolla’s show on the old KLSX-FM. (August 23, 2010)

Burwell Leaves Midday Show at WXOS-FM, St. Louis. Bryan Burwell is exiting his role on the 9:00 am to 11:00 am show alongside Bob Stelton at Bonneville’s sports WXOS-FM, St. Louis. Program director Jason Barrett tells the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Dan Caesar ratings were an issue. “I like Bryan personally, but the reality is the audience was more interested in the show when we had a different combination. We’re in a results-oriented business and the show’s performance was not up to par with the rest of the radio station. Therefore, we’re making a change to try to provide a better listen for the audience.” Burwell will still appear on the Rams pre-game show through the end of his contract. (August 23, 2010)

Ground Zero Mosque Debate Most-Talked-About Topic on Talk Radio for the Week of August 16-20. The controversial mosque and community center planned to be built near Ground Zero in New York dominated the topics of discussion at news/talk stations across America this week. The story involved not only President Obama’s comments over the past weekend and the aftermath of that but also House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s suggestion the funding of the projects opponents be investigated. In conjunction with that story, the poll that one in five Americans believes President Obama is a Muslim became a hot topic as well. Other big stories this week included the recession and the latest jobless figures and the announcement by talk host Dr. Laura Schlessinger that she will retire from terrestrial radio at the end of the year in the wake of her controversial use of the “n-word” on the air recently. (August 19, 2010)

Westwood One Reports Slight Drop in Q2 Revenue. The second quarter was basically flat for Westwood One as revenue dropped just $300,000 – from $83.7 million in the second quarter of 2009 to $83.4 during this year’s Q2. The numbers indicate a net loss of $5.4 million for the quarter but that’s an improvement over 2009’s second quarter net loss of $10 million. WW1 reports the pacing for the third and fourth quarters of this year looks promising, especially as the NFL season gears up and WW1 prepares to offer its weekly slate of football contests. During the quarterly conference call, CEO Rod Sherwood note that the company quietly renewed talk show host Dennis Miller’s contract during the previous quarter. (August 20, 2010)

USRN Officially Announces Relationship with Lex & Terry Show. Just a day after Lex & Terry show managing director Peter Welpton announced he is leaving the nationally syndicated morning show, United Stations Radio Networks says it is handling affiliate and ad sales for the show. Lex & Terry are based in Dallas and are heard for the most part on classic rock stations but not exclusively. USRN president and COO Jim Higgins says, “Lex & Terry have a morning show that’s legendary in status. Their content is unique and creative and their audience is incredibly loyal. It’s the kind of talent and daypart programming that we want to showcase in every possible way.” (August 20, 2010)

WFAN, New York’s Fantasy Phenom Contest Narrowed to Five Sports Talk Hosts. WFAN’s contest in which the winner will get a weekly sports talk show on WFAN for a year has been narrowed to five from the 2,000 + who auditioned for the shot of a lifetime. The five finalists — Otis Harper of Roselle, New Jersey; John Shea of Wantagh, New York; Patrick Creighton of Bethpage, New York; Gregg Sussman of Manalapan, New Jersey; and Al Renauto of White Plains, New York will compete for the gig live on the Mike Francesa show broadcast from Bar A in Lake Como, New Jersey on Friday, August 27. WFAN VP of programming Mark Chernoff says, “We’ve seen a lot of talent in the New York area and hope that everyone who participated enjoyed the experience and also found that it’s not as easy as it might seem to be a sports talk show host. Our own Joe Benigno began his radio journey through a WFAN contest back in 1995 and we’re excited at the prospect of finding another star in the making.” (August 20, 2010)

Pappas Radio to Take KMPH, Modesto Dark at Month’s End. Pappas Radio vice president and GM Jim Pappas tells listeners of KMPH, Modesto, California – “The Patriot” – that due to the poor economy the company will shut the station down at 9:00 am on August 31. Pappas indicates the station was losing money and they could not justify keeping it on the air. This may turn out to be a disturbing trend for challenged AM signals across the country as more and more news/talk outlets jump to the FM band leaving operators few options, especially for AM stations with signals that don’t cover the market effectively. (August 20, 2010)

Lindy Exits Clear Channel Atlanta. Programmer Scott Lindy, whose main area of expertise is country music radio, leaves the CC Atlanta cluster that includes news/talk WGST. Lindy had also been directly responsible for overseeing WGST. No word yet of a replacement programmer for WGST or the cluster’s music stations. (August 20, 2010)

Rob Babin Promoted to VP of Sales for Cox Media Atlanta. Babin has been general sales manager at news/talk giant WSB, Atlanta (now WSB, AM-FM). He keeps that title but adds oversight of the entire cluster’s sales efforts. (August 20, 2010)

Talk Host Alan Berg’s Killer Dies in Prison. Bruce Pierce, the man who was sentenced to prison in connection with the murder of KOA, Denver talk show host Alan Berg in 1984, died of natural causes at the Allenwood Federal Correction Complex in Pennsylvania on Monday (8/16). Pierce and David Lane, both admitted neo-Nazis, were convicted on charges of violating Berg’s civil rights. Lane died in prison in 2007. The two targeted Berg because of statements he made on the radio about neo-Nazis. (August 18, 2010)

Compass Media Networks Promotes Adam Wilbur to VP Affiliate Sales. Compass founder and CEO Peter Kosann announces the company is promoting Adam Wilbur to the vice president of affiliate sales position. Kosann says, “Our programming platform is rapidly expanding and now is the time to make the investments necessary to expand distribution. Adam has the experience, passion, focus and ability to drive our distribution efforts to new heights.” Prior to joining Compass Media Networks, Wilbur was president of Wilbur Entertainment. He also served as vice president of Fisher Entertainment. (August 19, 2010)

Lex & Terry Managing Director Peter Welpton Leaves the Program. Welpton has been with the nationally syndicated Lex & Terry show for many years and was instrumental in taking the show national in 1997. Now Welpton tells affiliate stations he’s leaving the radio business for a position he can’t talk about just yet but says it has nothing to do with the show’s move to new syndicator United Stations Radio Networks. Lex & Terry operate out of Clear Channel’s KEGL-FM, Dallas but have not been part of the station’s lineup since programming changes were made in January. (August 19, 2010)

Jay Cottrell Named WBAL Producer. Cottrell most recently worked at Red Zebra Broadcasting’s WTEM, Washington, DC producing Steve Czaban’s show, according to the Washington Examiner. Now, Cottrell will produce WBAL, Baltimore’s “Sportsline” hosted by Brett Hollander beginning Monday, August 23. (August 19, 2010)

Tamara Karcev Exits Citadel Media. Tamara Karcev leaves her director of affiliate relations position at Citadel Media. Karcev joined Citadel two-and-a-half years ago. She has also served in affiliate relations at Air America Media and Dr. Laura Schlessinger’s Take on the Day, LLC. (August 19, 2010)

Dr. Laura Schlessinger Announces Her Retirement from Radio on Larry King Live. Take on the Day and Talk Radio Network talk radio superstar Dr. Laura Schlessinger told CNN’s Larry King on Tuesday night (8/17) that when her contract ends at the end of the year she will retire from terrestrial radio. In part she said, “I’ve decided not to do a radio show anymore. I want my First Amendment rights back, which I can’t have on radio, without the threat of attack on my advertisers and stations. I would like to make it clear that I am not retiring — I’m too young for that — and I’m not quitting. I will be stronger and freer to say my mind through my books, my YouTube Channel, my blog and my website. And I’ll be on TV more because I’ll have the freedom to speak my mind.” Her controversial use of the “n-word” with a caller to her radio show and the firestorm it’s created have caused troubles for network ad sales and for affiliate stations, to be sure. The liberal watchdog organization Media Matters for America is now targeting her advertisers with a campaign to get them to cancel their buys on the show and clearly there’s been a lot of negative media attention paid to the case. However, this is not a First Amendment issue. That would require some sort of government action to shut her down. Agree or disagree with their stance, others have the right to petition her advertisers, affiliates or network. Regardless, she has stated in the past that radio is her first love and she will always remain on radio, so this is something to which she has given a lot of serious thought. If indeed she follows through and quits radio at the end of her contract, it will leave a huge void in the talk media landscape. (August 18, 2010)

Obama Mosque Comments Controversy Remains Top Talk Topic. The controversy over the proposed mosque and community center near Ground Zero in NYC and President Obama’s comments about the project over the weekend continue to be the hottest talk radio topic on news/talk stations Tuesday (8/17). (August 17, 2010)

Glenn Beck’s “Restoring Honor” Rally Rankles Social Activists. Premiere Radio Networks and Fox News Channel star Glenn Beck is hosting what he’s calling a “Restoring Honor” rally at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC on August 28 to “restore honor” to the nation and salute America’s military families. The event just happens to be the 47th anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech delivered at the same location. Many civil rights groups are saying the date was chosen purposely to taunt liberals although Beck says that’s not the case – he wasn’t aware of the connection until after it had been set. But he does admit he likes it and calls it “divine providence.” Other groups will be marching and holding events, including fellow talk show host Rev. Al Sharpton, but he says his event, the “Reclaim the Dream” rally is not a response to Beck’s event nor does he intend for his to become combative. There will be other events at the National Mall that day including a “Celebrate the Dream” rally at which a large statue will be unveiled. (August 17, 2010)

Bill Hess Joins WMAL, Washington Programming Department. Longtime programming pro Bill Hess returns to Washington, DC to take the APD position at Citadel’s news/talk WMAL. Hess worked for Clear Channel in the market serving as OM for the cluster that, at the time, included WTNT, WTEM and WWRC. Hess left CC to take the VP of programming position at Air America Media in New York. Hess will work with programmer Drew Hayes who is splitting time between WLS, Chicago and WMAL. (August 17, 2010)

Fox Sports Radio Network Brings Mike North Aboard. Though the daypart in which North will be appearing has not been announced, network VP/GM Don Martin says, “We couldn’t be happier to have Mike join the Fox Sports Radio family. His credentials in sports talk radio speak for themselves.” North is expected to do his program from Chicago. He is probably best known for his time spent on the air at CBS Radio’s WSCR, Chicago. Since exiting WSCR in 2008, North has been involved in a number of sports talk enterprises including co-hosting “Monsters in the Morning” on Comcast SportsNet Chicago and the “Monsters & Money in the Morning” on WBBM-TV alongside Dan Jiggets. WBBM-TV recently announced it is canceling that show. North was also a featured talent on the internet venture Chicago Sports Webio that went under after principal David Hernandez got into trouble with the feds. (August 18, 2010)

Sirius XM’s Chris “Mad Dog” Russo Whittles Down Field of Sports Talk Hopefuls. Russo’s Mad Dog Radio channel on the satcaster is giving a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to a wanna-be sports talker through his “So You Think You Can Talk Sports?” contest. The field of contestants is being narrowed to five and the winner will be announced on September 7. The grand prize winner receives a week of on-air training with Russo himself and his or her own show on the Mad Dog Radio channel this fall. Russo says, “Lots of people think they can talk sports, but arguing with your friends about sports and hosting a professional show for millions of listeners are two very different things. Nearly 600 people have taken their best shot at their dream job. These five emerged as the best and they are about to be given the spotlight. We’ll see who shines the brightest.” (August 18, 2010)

Citadel Broadcasting Reports Second Quarter Revenue Up 3.3%. The radio markets segment of Citadel’s operations was up 5.3% with some markets showing growth while others reported year-over-year declines. Citadel’s network revenue was down 5.4%. CEO Farid Suleman said in a statement, “The company’s continued focus on profitable programming and the improvement in the overall economic environment in the radio industry has resulted in increases to revenues in the first half of the year.” (August 17, 2010)

WABC, New York Weekend Shows Making News, Raising Station’s Profile. Citadel Communications’ WABC, New York is bringing fresh, newsworthy content to the air under the guiding hand of programmer Laurie Cantillo who recently told TALKERS magazine, “There is no down time with [Arbitron’s] PPM. It forces you to be good every minute of every day.” Cantillo is putting that philosophy to work with live and (mostly) local shows. Two great examples are “Aaron Klein Investigative Radio” airing Sunday from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach’s “The Shmuley Show” Sunday from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Klein’s show has been making news in New York and internationally and did so this weekend when Hamas co-founder Mahmoud al-Zahar weighed in on the Ground Zero mosque controversy live on Klein’s show, sparking a story in the New York Post that was picked up by the AP.
The man Newsweek magazine called “the most famous rabbi in America,” Rabbi Shmuley (“Just call me Shmuley”) Boteach has also been generating a lot of news and attention on his live and local weekly show since it was launched less than a year ago. The program, which serves up an eclectic mix of politics, relationships and the discussion of values, has been on the leading edge of the Wyclef Jean story breaking the news of the hip hop/reggae star’s intention to run for the presidency of Haiti almost two weeks before it was announced on Larry King’s CNN program. The famous presidential hopeful recently returned to the Shmuley program where he offered his first public response to the attacks against him by Sean Penn. In discussing his scoops, Shmuley tells TALKERS magazine, “I met Wyclef at the airport on the way to Haiti after the earthquake and we became fast friends. He is an official patron of my ‘Turn Friday Night into Family Night’ initiative.” (August 16, 2010)

Obama Mosque Comments Controversy Top Talk Radio Topic for Monday, August 16. President Barack Obama’s comments over the weekend about the proposed Park 51 mosque project near the World Trade Center in New York was the most talked about topic on news/talk radio today (8/16). Obama’s speech at a Ramadan dinner Friday evening gave the impression to some that he endorses the project but on Saturday he said America’s fundamental religious freedoms allow the project but he wasn’t commenting on the wisdom of the location. (August 16, 2010)

Cox Blows Up CHR WBTS-FM, Atlanta and Simulcasts WSB on 95.5 FM. Cox Media Group’s Atlanta news/talk WSB gets an FM simulcast on 95.5 with the end of rhythmic CHR WBTS-FM. Cox Media Atlanta VP Dan Kearney says, “WSB 750 AM has one of the strongest signals in the country powering its award-winning news, weather, traffic and talk format. We are anticipating significant ratings growth by simulcasting WSB on FM. Previous simulcasts of this nature across the country have lead to 15% to 200 % increases. The decision to simulcast our 24-hour news/talk format on FM will offer unique radio content to a wider listening audience. Nearly half of Atlanta’s radio audience has never visited the AM dial. The simulcast of WSB on FM allows us to penetrate twice the previously available listening audience for our advertisers.” (August 16, 2010)

Newsmax Visited by President Bill Clinton. Newsmax Media, the South Florida-based news organization and programming provider, was visited by former President Bill Clinton on August 16. CEO Christopher Ruddy says the president toured the West Palm Beach facility and visited with staff members and took pictures. Ruddy says, “I am a great admirer of President Clinton. He has not only redefined the post-presidency, but has served as an exemplary goodwill ambassador for our country throughout the whole world. His efforts transcend politics and deserve support.” Ruddy tells TALKERS magazine he and the president have become friends over the past several years, with both sharing Clinton’s passion for the causes that his Clinton Foundation supports. The foundation focuses on poverty alleviation and health services in the United States and globally. (August 17, 2010)

Kirby Wilbur Returns to Seattle Airwaves for Weekly Segment. Longtime KVI, Seattle talk show host Kirby Wilbur is back on the air at Bonneville’s KTTH. Wilbur joins PM drive host David Boze for the “Four O’clock Freedom Shot” at 4:40 pm each Monday. Bonneville Seattle OM Ryan Hatch says, “Kirby Wilbur is a beloved figure in the Puget Sound Area’s conservative community and we look forward to having his voice and his distinct perspective as a part of our programming every week.” (August 17, 2010)

Arkansas Sports Station Fires Host for Wearing Gators Hat to Press Conference. Renee Gork, a graduate of University of Florida and a personality at KAKS-FM, Huntsville, Arkansas (in the Fayetteville market), made the unfortunate decision to wear a Florida Gators hat to an Arkansas Razorbacks news conference with head coach Bobby Petrino. After the coach answered her question he said, “And that’s the last question I’ll answer with that hat on.” If wearing the hat was a joke, KAKS-FM GM Dan Storrs was not amused. He stated unequivocally the station – which goes by the positioner Hog Sports Radio – is an Arkansas supporter and Gork was fired for the incident. (August 17, 2010)

Lincoln Financial Media Promotes Pellini to APD. Program director Nate Lundy announces J.J. Pellini is promoted from promotions director to assistant program director for sports KKFN-FM and KEPN, Denver. Pellini will also serve as marketing director for the two stations. (August 17, 2010)

Redding Exits PD Post at KMLB. After a year in the position, Rob Redding leaves the program director gig at KMLB, Monroe, Louisiana to concentrate on his “Redding News Review” weekly syndicated talk show. Redding’s Sunday evening program is syndicated nationally through Genesis Communications Network. (August 17, 2010)

Emmis Shareholder Meeting Adjourns Without Vote. The August 13 special shareholders meeting was adjourned without a vote being taken on the proposal to exchange preferred stock for new notes that would come due in 2017 which is a crucial part of Jeff Smulyan’s plan to take Emmis private. A group of preferred stock shareholders are locking up the deal and while Smulyan’s JS Acquisition group continues to negotiate with the lock-up group, alternative ways to take the company private are being explored as well. Another shareholder meeting has been scheduled for August 20. (August 16, 2010)

Feds Convict Talk Host Hal Turner on Third Try. After two previous deadlocked juries failed to convict Hal Turner of using his blog to threaten to kill three Chicago judges last summer, on Friday the third time was the charm as Turner was convicted by a federal jury in Brooklyn. Turner wrote that the judges “deserved to be killed” for upholding the ruling banning handguns in Chicago – a ruling that has since been overturned by the Supreme Court. The case was about free speech but was complicated by the fact that Turner had worked for the feds as an informant as the state used his connections to the white supremacist community to root out people involved in illegal activity. Turner had claimed his rhetoric was purposely designed to bring out the fringe elements of the movement as part of his work for the feds. He claimed his FBI supervisors even coached him on the limits of lawful speech. But those same agents contradicted his testimony and the jury found him guilty. He faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. (August 16, 2010)

WIP, Philadelphia Personalities Support City’s “Play Day.” CBS Radio’s WIP, Philadelphia personalities are taking part in the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s “Play Day” event at the city’s FDR Park in South Philly today (8/16). WIP’s Anthony Gargano and Glen Macnow will broadcast live from the free event that “celebrates the games of our youth that were played while growing up in and around Philadelphia. Games featured will include team softball, a HORSE competition, punt pass and kick, a homerun derby, soccer kick, speed pitch, half-court shot, hockey shot and much more.” Partial proceeds benefit Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Other WIP personalities taking part include: Angelo Cataldi, Howard Eskin and Ike Reese. (August 16, 2010)

Sports KRKO, Everett, Washington Gets New Towers. Almost a year after the eco-terrorist group Earth Liberation Front – or someone pretending to represent it – knocked down KRKO, Everett, Washington’s two towers, the station is getting two new sticks put up today (8/16). Station GM Andy Skotdal says the station was able to stay on the air via other sites and the damaged one but the new towers will allow the station to broadcast at full power. (August 16, 2010)

KDOX, Las Vegas Adds FM Translator. Summit Media’s KDOX, Las Vegas added an FM simulcast to its 1280 AM signal in the market. The station recently began simulcasting on 102.3 FM. (August 16, 2010)

Lincoln Financial Media Acquires Avalanche and Nuggets Play-By-Play in Denver. LFM owns two sports talk outlets in Denver: KKFN-FM and KEPN. But the games of the NBA and NHL clubs will air on the company’s oldies KRWZ at 950 on the dial – allowing the sports stations to not have to break away from talk shows for play-by-play. Interestingly, the deal calls for conflicts in the schedule to be settled with Mile High Sports’ KCKK – the previous rights holder – which would carry a game. (August 16, 2010)

Los Angeles Radio Personality Dan Avey Dies at 69. Avey passed away on Sunday (8/15) at age 69. He was a well-known figure in the Los Angeles market having been the voice of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, morning co-host on KABC with Ken Minyard and news anchor at KFWB, among others. (August 16, 2010)

Dial Global’s Stephanie Miller Comes Out on Her Radio Show. Nationally syndicated radio talk show host Stephanie Miller announced on her August 13 program that she is gay. Miller said she’s been out to family, friends and co-workers for many years but felt it was time to come out publicly especially considering the gay issues in the news that she also addresses on her radio show. Miller also credited lesbian country singer Chely Wright – someone she’s become friends with recently – for encouraging her to come out. (August 13, 2010)

Recession/Jobless Claims Up/Atlanta Voucher Crowd Unrest Top Talk Radio Topics for Week of August 9 – 13. Economic subjects topped the “Talkers Ten” list of the most-talked-about topics on news/talk radio for the week of August 9-13. The recession, the news of increased jobless claims and the crowd unrest at an Atlanta-area Section 8 voucher application event were all related stories combining to be number one this week. The related story of First Lady Michelle Obama’s controversial vacation in Spain followed at number two and speculation about the Republicans’ chances to regain control of Congress this fall came in at number three. (August 13, 2010)

WABC, New York Reports Doug McIntyre Winning in Overnights. Citadel’s WABC, New York says Doug McIntyre’s “Red Eye Radio” overnight show and his early-morning New York-only show are big ratings winners in the Big Apple. July PPM data shows “Red Eye Radio” is number two with men 25-54 and number four with men 18-34. The station also says McIntyre’s 5:00 am to 6:00 am lead-in show for Imus in the Morning was number one with men 25-54 in the June PPM and number two with adults 18-34. In the same press release, WABC reports Ando Media’s measurement the station’s online listening indicates it is the “most-listened-to online radio station in New York, with 1.7 million streaming sessions in July.” (August 13, 2010)

WPRO, Providence Programs Week of Candidate Debates. Citadel Communications’ WPRO, Providence brings voters in the state a full slate of candidate debates the week of August 16-20. All debates will be moderated by WPRO news director Bill Haberman, WPRO political reporter Steve Klamkin and The Hummel Report’s Jim Hummel and will air during the 5:00 pm hour on the Buddy Cianci show. Candidates participating include: Democratic candidates for Secretary of State Ralph Mollis, incumbent, and State Senator Leonidas Rapakis; Republican candidates vying for Governor John Robitaille and Victor Moffit; Democratic candidates for Congressional District 1 former Democratic Party Chairman Bill Lynch, State Rep. David Segal and businessman Anthony Gemma (Providence Mayor David Cicilline has not responded to his debate invitation); Democratic candidates for mayor of Providence, Angel Tavaras, State Rep. Steven Costantino, Chris Young and Providence Councilman John Lombardi; and concluding debate week on Friday, August 20, the Democratic lieutenant governor between incumbent Elizabeth Roberts and Red Sox executive Jeremy Kapstein. (August 13, 2010)

Journal Broadcasting Names Ryan McCredden KQTH-FM PD. Programmer Ryan McCredden moves from CBS Radio’s KRLD, Dallas where he served as APD to Tucson to take the program director position at KQTH-FM. Journal Tucson operations manager Darla Thomas says, “We are thrilled that Ryan has decided to join our programming team. Listeners have found their voice and made ‘The Truth’ the best place for talk in Tucson and we’re excited to have Ryan work with our leading morning host Jon Justice to develop that station/listener relationship even further.” Prior to his work at KRLD, McCredden served at Mid-West Family’s WTDY and WJJO in Madison, Wisconsin. McCredden takes over for previous PD Andrew Lee who accepted the PD position at Clear Channel’s KTLK-FM, Minneapolis. (August 13, 2010)

WGOW-FM, Chattanooga Hires Formerly Embattled Teacher to Host Bi-Weekly Talk Show. Tonya Craft’s story gained national attention. The former kindergarten teacher was accused of molesting three young girls in her home in 2008. After two years of legal struggles during which she lost her job, home, savings, parents’ retirement savings and custody of her own children, Craft was found not guilty. She intends to go to law school and is dedicated to helping people who find themselves in a similar situation. Her show on WGOW-FM, “The Truth of the Matter with Tonya Craft,” will air from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm every other Tuesday. (August 13, 2010)

Dr. Laura Apologizes for Using the N-Word on Her Show. TRN/Take on the Day nationally syndicated talk star Dr. Laura Schlessinger apologized on her blog after using the n-word on her radio show on August 10. She received a call from a black woman married to a white man who feels her husband doesn’t rush to her defense when people say hurtful things to her. In explaining that many blacks in entertainment use the word as part of their act and that too many people use the hurtful word carelessly, Dr. Laura used the word three times in succession. Dr. Laura writes, “I always tell my listeners when they mess up, they need to follow the four R’s: take responsibility, have true remorse, try to repair it, and don’t repeat it. Yesterday, I messed up. I used the n-word on air, and I regretted it as soon as the call was over. While it was in the context of making a point about the unfortunate use of that term by others who deem it acceptable or funny, it is a word that is hateful, hurtful and I should not have used it even to prove a point. After the call, I was terribly upset about it and after that hour of the program concluded, pulled myself off the air for the rest of the show. Today, at the top of my program, I will apologize to my listeners.” (August 12, 2010)

Fox Sports Radio Adds Pat O’Brien to PM Drive Show. Fox Sports Radio Network announces Pat O’Brien – longtime CBS Sports personality and former host of “Access Hollywood” and “The Insider” – is the new co-host of the network’s “Loose Cannons” show alongside Steve Hartman and Vic “the Brick” Jacobs. The show airs live from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET. Fox Sports Radio Network VP/GM Don Martin says, “Pat’s experience in both sports and entertainment, as well as his industry connections and passion for radio, make him a perfect fit for the ‘Loose Cannons.’ We couldn’t be happier to welcome him to the Fox Sports Radio family as we continue providing the best destination for sports entertainment audio content.” (August 12, 2010)

Sporting News Radio Brings Bruce Jacobs Aboard the Network. Mission Media Group adds another veteran talent to its roster of personalities (Steve Czaban was just added – see below). Bruce Jacobs worked at the old One On One Sports Network and, most recently, did a weekend show at Fox Sports Radio Network. Jacobs has also done non-sports talk. He hosted the morning show at Clear Channel’s KFYI, Phoenix for years. Now Jacobs comes back to sports at the network in a role yet to be announced. In a statement, Jacobs says, “I am thrilled to be joining a new, exciting and vibrant company with so many high quality broadcasters. I am looking forward to many years of entertaining America’s fans…and celebrating the Jets’ upcoming Super Bowl victory.” (August 12, 2010)

Dan Zampillo Exits WGN, Chicago for Sirius XM. Chicago talk radio programmer Dan Zampillo leaves the assistant program director position at Tribune’s WGN, Chicago to take the executive producer of sports programming at Sirius XM, according to vocalo.org’s Robert Feder. Zampillo worked at sports WSCR, Chicago for years before joining WGN in 2008. (August 12, 2010)

WXOS-FM, St. Louis Enters into Deal with KMOV-TV. Bonneville’s St. Louis sports talk WXOS-FM and Belo Corp’s KMOV-TV will share each other’s sports talent in a deal designed to cross promote their content. KMOV-TV sports director Steve Savard will appear on WXOS-FM’s “The Fast Lane” PM drive show each day at 5:45 pm with “News 4 Sports Live from the 101 ESPN Studios” and, in return, WXOS-FM talk personalities will make appearances on the TV station’s sports reports and weekend sports shows. (August 12, 2010)

Bonneville to Air Baltimore Ravens Games in Washington, DC. The NFL’s Baltimore Ravens will be heard in Washington, DC this season giving Dan Snyder’s Washington Redskins – heard on Snyder’s own network of Virginia radio stations led by WTEM, Washington – some competition for ears in the Nation’s Capital. Bonneville Federal News Radio WFED will carry Ravens play-by-play. Games will also be heard on WTOP-FM’s HD side channel. (August 12, 2010)

Broadcasters Mourn Loss of Former Senator Ted Stevens. Longtime U.S. Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) died in a plane crash yesterday (8/10) and broadcasters are remembering him as a friend of the industry. Stevens chaired the Commerce Committee – which oversees the FCC – for many years and he was responsible for championing a lot of broadcaster-friendly legislation. National Association of Broadcasters president/CEO Gordon Smith said in a statement, “Senator Stevens was a towering figure in the U.S. Senate and shepherded some of the most important communications legislation through Congress during his tenure on the Senate Commerce Committee. Broadcasters have lost a friend, but America has lost a war hero and a legislative giant. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fellow Alaskans.” (August 11, 2010)

Broadcaster Ross Love Passes Away at 64. Love was a well-known figure in the business communities in Cincinnati and Dayton. He owned urban talk WDBZ, Cincinnati until 2007 when he sold it to Radio One. Not unlike New York’s Syd Small – who passed away over the weekend – Love left a good career outside the radio business at Proctor & Gamble to focus on African-American-targeted radio. Love built the Blue Chip Broadcasting chain of 21 stations that he eventually sold to Radio One in 2001. He kept WDBZ for another six years before letting it go. (August 11, 2010)

Progressive Talk Radio Comes to Atlanta’s WPBC. Hanmi Broadcasting is flipping ethnic WPBC, Atlanta to progressive talk featuring a slate of the top liberal syndicated talk hosts including: Dial Global’s Ed Schultz, Thom Hartman, Stephanie Miller and Bill Press plus independently syndicated Leslie Marshall and a bevy of local talk hosts for the weekend lineup. The station, licensed to Decatur, Georgia, is a 2500-watt outlet at 1310 AM and is positioning itself as “The King.” In announcing the new format, manager Danny Wilson says, “The mission and goal is to be a catalyst for innovation and to provide a compelling medium for divergent opinion in radio. ‘The King’ will, in due time, prove to be the community’s key platform for diverse/insightful opinions, intelligentsia and voices seeking an outlet to speak, listen and be heard.” (August 11, 2010)

WFYV-FM, Jacksonville Parts Company with Doug “Greaseman” Tracht and the Cowhead Show. Tracht had returned to Jacksonville two years ago on the classic rock station bringing his brand of talk to afternoon drive. But now, as many are speculating, with the PPM coming to the Jacksonville market, the talk-heavy programming is being jettisoned from the station to focus on Bubba the Love Sponge in the morning and “50 minutes of classic rock that really rocks, every hour.” (August 11, 2010)

Hubbard’s KSTP Gets Twins Baseball for Two More Seasons. KSTP, Minneapolis flipped to sports this spring and believes that switch has made its relationship with the Minnesota Twins that much more effective. The Pohlad family seems to agree and keeps the popular play-by-play broadcasts on the station through the 2012 season. (August 11, 2010)

Clear Channel Radio Up 4% in Q2. Clear Channel Media Holdings reports Clear Channel Radio saw an increase in revenue of 4% in the second quarter compared to the same period one year ago. Revenue was $748.7 million in 2010 versus $717.6 million in 2009. President and CEO Mark Mays reports, “Our second quarter results reflect the positive impact of the global advertising market recovery combined with the ongoing execution of our strategic plan to maximize our performance and improve profitability across our operations…Given the ongoing momentum we are seeing across our business, we remain optimistic regarding our growth prospects for the full year.” (August 10, 2010)

Salem Communications Posts Q2 Profit. Salem Communications improved from a loss of some $5 million in the second quarter of 2009 to a profit of almost $800,000 for the same period in 2010. Total revenue for Salem was up 5% in the second quarter of this year compared to 2009’s Q2. (August 10, 2010)

Fisher Reports Second Quarter Up in Radio Division. Fisher Communications realized a 28% hike in revenue for the second quarter of this year due to vastly improved television revenue. However, revenue from the company’s eight radio stations was also up – 8% versus the same period one year ago. (August 10, 2010)

WWRL, New York Owner Sydney Small Passes Away. Syd Small died unexpectedly over the weekend at age 72 and there are few details available of his death this morning. Small, president and CEO of Access.1, bought WWRL from the United Negro College Fund in 1982 for $1.5 million, according to the New York Daily News. The paper notes he struggled for years to find a profitable niche for the station that is currently a progressive talk outlet and once served as Air America Radio’s flagship. Small left his position at Time, Inc. in 1972 to found the National Black Network which would provide news and programming to hundreds of affiliates around the country. (August 10, 2010)

Steve Czaban Adds Another Drive Time Show to His Schedule. The sports talk host currently co-hosts the PM drive show at Red Zebra Broadcasting’s WTEM, Washington, DC alongside Andy Pollin. Now he re-joins Sporting News Radio for the nationally syndicated AM drive show with co-host Scott Linn. Czaban worked at Sporting News Radio in the mid-1990s. Since then he’s also worked at ESPN Radio and Fox Sports Radio. (August 10, 2010)

Citadel New York Names Matthew Kiger Digital Director. Kiger joins WABC and sister WPLJ-FM as digital director after serving as digital media specialist at CBS Radio’s New York cluster. Citadel says, “Matthew brings talent and passion for new digital sales strategy, specializing in new, direct digital business. His overall responsibility will encompass everything from content to technical sales.” (August 10, 2010)

Emmis Shareholder Vote Postponed Until August 13. Over the weekend Emmis Communications announced it did not have a quorum at the August 6 shareholder meeting and would convene another one on August 13. It would also hold a board meeting on that day, according to the Indianapolis Business Journal. In the meantime, Emmis continues to negotiate with the Preferred Shareholder Lock Up Group that is trying to kill the $90 million merger with Chairman/CEO Jeff Smulyan’s JS Acquisition. (August 9, 2010)

Republican Congressional Hopefuls Debate on WXKS, Boston. Morning drive host Jeff Katz is the moderator for the one-hour August 11 debate between Republicans Sean Bielat and Earl Sholley on Clear Channel’s WXKS, Boston – Rush Radio 1200. The program will be live at 7:00 am — a rare morning drive candidates debate. The two will face off in the Republican Primary in Massachusetts on September 14 and the winner faces Democratic incumbent Barney Frank in November. (August 9, 2010)

Massachusetts Gubernatorial Candidates to Debate on WTKK-FM, Boston. Greater Media’s WTKK-FM, Boston will host a gubernatorial debate between candidates Governor Deval Patrick (D), Republican Charlie Baker and Treasurer Tim Cahill (I) on September 16. The three candidates will appear on Jim Braude and Margery Eagan’s program from 9:00 am to 10:00 am and in addition to questions from the two, the station will take listener questions submitted ahead of time. Program director Grace Blazer says, “96.9 Boston Talks is honored to host this debate between our candidates for Governor of Massachusetts. Jim Braude and Margery Eagan’s live and local morning show will create a smart and tactical venue for Governor Patrick, Mr. Baker and Treasurer Cahill to be heard loud and clear in the Commonwealth.” (August 9, 2010)

KGO, San Francisco Schedules Whitman-Brown Debate for October 5. Citadel’s KGO, San Francisco has a tentative gubernatorial debate set up between Republican Meg Whitman and Democrat Jerry Brown to air during Ronn Owens’ program on October 5. The San Francisco Chronicle reports it would be the fourth debate between Whitman, the former CEO of eBay, and California Attorney General Jerry Brown (who served as governor from 1975 to 1983). (August 9, 2010)

Todd Schnitt and Staffers Avoid Criminal Charges in Turkey Frying Stunt. Nationally syndicated talk show host Todd Schnitt is also host of the “MJ Morning Show” on Tampa’s WFLZ-FM and it was there that his show got in trouble with the local fire marshal. While dropping a frozen turkey into a pot of boiling oil sitting inside a van loaded with furniture to demonstrate the danger of cooking this way, the van and its content caught fire and the fire department was called to extinguish it. During this process one firefighter was injured. Now, the prosecutor says he will not file criminal charges as the situation doesn’t meet the legal definition of arson. Instead, Schnitt and staffers will enter a pre-trial diversion program for first-time offenders. (August 9, 2010)

Former WGN, Chicago Host Steve Cochran Debuts Online Radio Show. Cochran, who exited WGN, Chicago in June, announces he’s going to begin providing content online at his stevecochranshow.com, according to vocalo.org’s Robert Feder. Cochran says he’ll put fresh material up every day in the form of either a blog post, audio podcast or video. “I want to take the best stuff I did from the old shows and add all the cool things we can do on the net. I think it’s a good start for now. We will be adding more video, live chats and shows, and blatant plugs for upcoming sponsors. Unlike traditional media, I plan on using my website long after the verdict is in — to continue mocking Rod Blagojevich. And unlike most of the web, my site will only have limited nudity.” (August 9, 2010)

Former Radio Employee Accused of Stealing $2 Million from Companies. A Minnetonka, Minnesota woman who served as comptroller for Ingstad Brothers Broadcasting and Iowa City Broadcasting is charged with making improper payments to herself over the course of seven years. Fifty-four year old Terry Schultz-Schech allegedly used the company American Express card and company checks to make payments on illegitimate personal expenses of between $1,200 and $20,000 on some 55 occasions, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Officially, she faces eight counts of theft by swindle. (August 9, 2010)