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.

39 Days Until New Media Seminar 2010. The countdown to this year’s installment of the biggest, longest-running and most important annual gathering of professionals from talk media (radio, television, satellite and internet) is on! Registrations are running significantly ahead of last year’s event which sold out a week before opening day and the special deal of $179-per-night rooms at the Marriott New York East Side Hotel are down to the final handful. New Media Seminar 2010 takes place Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20. According to the event’s planners, this year’s installment will focus on talent, programming and sales with the emphasis being on talk radio’s ongoing survival during times of great economic challenge on one side and unprecedented technological opportunity on the other. Sessions include: “The Case for Local Talk Radio Programming,” “The State of Talk Radio,” “Monetizing Talk Programming on the Internet,” “The Annual Digital Media Workshop,” “The Annual State of the First Amendment Address,” “Managing a Talk Radio Career,” “The Talk Rumble,” “The First Annual Talk Media Energy Symposium,” and more. Special events include the gala Opening Night Cocktail Reception, the Freedom of Speech Luncheon and Award Ceremony and the Third Annual Sean Hannity Ice Cream and Dessert Party. There will be the One-on-One Exhibition Area, live radio broadcasts and non-stop networking opportunities. The lineup of more than 60 speakers includes: Sean Hannity, Lou Dobbs, Alan Colmes, Laurie Cantillo, Grace Blazer, Gabe Hobbs, Walter Sabo, Mike McVay, Holland Cooke, Chris Oliviero, Greg Moceri, Kipper McGee, Randall Bloomquist, Bill Handel, Stephanie Miller, Thom Hartmann, Elvis Duran, Roger Hedgecock, Jim Bohannon, Dr. Joy Browne, Lars Larson, Lionel, Jack Rice, Phil Hendrie, Dom Giordano, Larry Young, Jack Landreth, Heidi Harris, Dan Yorke, Alan Stock, Nicole Sandler, David Bernstein, Bill White, Peter Thiele, Carl East, Errol Louis, Elizabeth Ames Jones, Ron Hartenbaum, Mark Masters, Ann Druyan, Michael Harrison, Kevin Casey, Matthew B. Harrison, Steven J.J. Weisman, Carole Marks, Ellen Ratner, Blanquita Cullum, Jared Morris, Gordon Deal, Dan Patterson, Doug Stephan and many more. For information about registration, hotel and sponsorships call 413-739-8255.

Sid Rosenberg Hosts Special Report from Miami on WFAN. For the first time since 2005, former WFAN, New York talk host Sid Rosenberg hosted a program on the station in a special pre-Super Bowl report. Rosenberg currently hosts the midday show on Beasley’s WQAM, Miami but he is well known for his work at WFAN hosting his own show and with Don Imus. Rosenberg’s February 6 program featured excellent interviews with high-profile guests including former New York Giant Tiki Barber and the Carolina Panthers’ Jonathan Stewart. Already New York media watchers are speculating whether this special show may lead to Rosenberg’s return to WFAN.

Radio-TV Simulcast Suspected for Riggins’ New PM Drive Show. Former Redskin great John Riggins is going to be hosting a 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm sports talk show on Bonneville’s WTOP-FM, Washington’s HD3 channel. DCRTV reports that engineers were seen installing not only HD equipment in the Idaho Ave NW studios but lights and cameras as well. It further suggests the show could air on a cable channel such as Comcast SportsNet or the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network. That would make sense because very few people own HD radios and it seems silly to pay Riggins to host a show only a handful of people can hear.

Andy Furman Debuts New Show Today. Former WLW, Cincinnati personality Andy Furman begins his 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm show on WQRT, Cincinnati (licensed to Florence, Kentucky) today (2/8) with former Reds great Pete Rose as his first guest. Furman was let go from WLW in 2006 after being suspended for calling then-Bengals wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh a racist. Furman popped up on Cincinnati FM talk startup WFTK a couple months later but the station flipped to music at the end of 2007 and Furman was out. He maintains his “day job” as a customer relations manager at a local auto dealership.

Midwest Communications’ WTAQ, Green Bay Begins FM Simulcast. The news/talk outlet added the FM simulcast on Friday (2/5) and program director Jerry Bader writes on the station’s website that this new signal will aid area listeners whose reception could be spotty at times. He also pointed out the obviously enhanced quality of the FM sound. “I was almost like a kid on Christmas day. I was in [Midwest Communications President] Duke Wright’s office and to see on his radio ‘97.5 FM stereo’ and on the RDS, ‘WTAQ News Talk.’ I was very proud.” Midwest bought the 3,000 kw signal from Randy Michaels’ Radioactive LLC for $1.7 million.

Stern to American Idol Has Industry Abuzz. No one gets better mileage out of a rumor than Howard Stern and the latest one – that American Idol producers want him to replace Simon Cowell next season – is a doozie. Stern told his Sirius XM listeners he was approached by a major TV production but turned it down. That combined with the New York Post report that Fox TV is “eager” to get Stern in Cowell’s chair has given the story major legs. There are those who say this is just another part of Stern’s plan to get the money he wants out of Sirius XM to continue there. Stern himself seems to vacillate wildly as he speculates about his future on the radio so we probably won’t know what Stern is going to do until a contract is actually signed – whatever contract that may be.

ESPN Cancels Michael Irvin & Kevin Kiley’s Midday Show in Dallas. ESPN O&O KESN had been the home to the midday talk show until yesterday when the station ended the program due to poor ratings and the coming end of Irvin’s contract but station officials admit the breaking news of a rape allegation against Irvin hastened the end. Well-known Dallas radio personalities Ben & Skin (Ben Rogers and Jeff “Skin” Wade) take over the midday show immediately. It’s not clear what role, if any, Kiley will play with the station.

Citadel Files Chapter 11 Exit Plan. Under the terms of the plan filed by Citadel Broadcasting this week, JP Morgan Chase comes out owning about 90% of the company. The more than $2.1 billion in debt that Citadel had accrued is now cut to about a third of its former total in the form of a loan of $762 million. Unsecured creditors have the option to take the remaining portion of the company’s stock or cash at five cents on the dollar with a cap of $2 million. In the filing Citadel lists its total assets at about $1.6 billion.

Doug McIntyre Revives “Red Eye Radio.” The former KABC, Los Angeles morning host was doing his “Red Eye Radio” overnight show on that station before moving into the morning drive slot. Now, after losing his AM drive gig to Peter Tilden, McIntyre brings the show back and this time into syndication in a deal with WABC and Citadel Media. The 1:00 am to 5:00 am show is airing on WABC, New York and KABC seven nights a week with “Mr. KABC” Marc Germain handling the Sunday overnight show. McIntyre’s style combines issues of the day, pop culture, sports and comedy.

CBS Radio’s Pittsburgh FM Sports Talker Announces Lineup. KDKA-FM — SportsRadio 93.7 The Fan — debuts February 15 as the market’s first sports outlet on the FM band. Program director Terry Foxx says, “This has been one of the most exciting times in my life. I’m working alongside a team of passionate, compelling and wonderful on-air personalities. The fans of Pittsburgh will be truly served 24/7 by this radio station.” The late night and overnight talent will be announced soon. The daytime lineup is: Paul Alexander, Jon Burton and Jim Colony from 6:00 am to 10:00 am. Paul Alexander has been on air at Fox Sports Network Pittsburgh, KDKA-TV and KDKA-AM. Jon Burton was a sports anchor on WTAE-TV. Jim Colony — co-host, sports anchor and reporter for the program — worked at WTAE-TV and ESPN’s WEAE, Pittsburgh. The 10:00 am to 12:00 noon show features longtime Seattle sports broadcaster “New York Vinnie” Rachichi and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette columnist Ron Cook. The 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm program hosts are John Seibel, previously the host of the ESPN Radio show “Sports Nation” and Joe Starkey, former Pittsburgh Tribune-Review sports write. Finally, Gregg Giannotti, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm host, moves west from WFAN, New York where he was producer of the midday show with Joe Benigno and Evan Roberts. KDKA-AM sports director Jeff Hathorn adds the station to his responsibilities.

Air America’s Chapter 7 Filing Details Creditors. Some of Air America Media’s talent are listed as creditors in the Chapter 7 filing that was just made public. The company lists assets of about $1.5 million and debts of slightly more than $17 million. Vermont businessman and CEO Charlie Kireker stands to be the biggest loser – to the tune of almost $16 million. Kireker invested heavily in the cause he believed in and is a prime example of how, in business, one can’t let ones emotions rule decision making. The criticism that Air America was founded as a political ideal first and a means to sell advertising second appears well founded. The talent listed as creditors includes: Ana Marie Cox, $1,169; Ellis Henican, $1,500; Rachel Maddow, $3,951; and Nicole Sandler, $ 4,200. But some radio stations are out of luck, too. WWRL, New York is out $25,000 and Clear Channel’s KTLK, Los Angeles is owed $66,666.

Business TalkRadio Network President Subject of SEC Inquiry. Michael Metter, president and CEO of Businss TalkRadio Network and its sister network Lifestyle TalkRadio Network, is under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission related to SpongeTech, another business concern that makes sponges loaded with soap for washing cars. The SEC’s concerns are centered around SpongeTech’s financial disclosures and BTRN is issuing a statement to the radio industry seeking to assure it that there is no connection to the radio company. EVP Jeff Weber says, “Business TalkRadio Network, Lifestyle TalkRadio Network and radio stations WGCH, KNUU, WXBR and WLFP have absolutely nothing to do with SpongeTech. Our radio company is privately held with many shareholders, none of whom has majority control. A press report that indicates the licenses of our radio stations could be in jeopardy is totally false… We believe that some of what has been written in a local newspaper is nothing more than an attempt to harm their local media competitor. We are all aware of the continuing slide in newspaper readership especially with the local daily. The direction they have taken toward sensationalizing the news has been very obvious in recent months.”

Texas-based BizRadio Off Air, Vows to Return March 1. Houston’s BizRadio, which aired financial talk on stations in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio is off the air but according to its website, indicates it plans to return to the air on March 1 though one can still listen via computer or cell phone. No further explanation is provided. BizRadio’s principals were the subjects of Securities and Exchange Commission action back in November of 2009. Albert Kaleta and Daniel Frishberg founded the network and Frishberg is one of its hosts. Kaleta and Frishberg, through Danile Frishberg Financial Services, were sued by the SEC for raising money under false pretenses. Kaleta signed a consent order to pay the money back and allow a court-appointed receiver to take over BizRadio’s operations. The charge is that investors, who were sold $10 in promissory notes, were told they were supplying money to small businesses at a 10% to 14% return but the money was actually going to BizRadio and Frishberg’s firm. How this saga affects the current state of BizRadio is not clear at this point.

Financial Talk Host Gets Prison Term. Former talk show host Jamie Lake pleaded guilty to mail fraud and was sentenced to 45 months in prison and must pay more than $500,000 in fines. Lake, whose program “Money in Motion” was brokered on Entercom’s WILK-AM/FM, WKZN and WBZU in Wilkes Barre-Scranton, defrauded 33 customers of money through his firm JPL Financial.

Hubbard’s Female Talk Station Changes Calls. The female-targeted FM talk outlet WFMP owned by Hubbard and positioned as MyTalk 107.1, changes its call letters to KTMY-FM. The station is licensed to Coon Rapids, Minnesota.

Doug Stephan Inks with United Stations. Renowned syndicated talk show host Doug Stephan’s independent firm Stephan Multimedia has pacted with major network programming supplier United Stations Radio Networks. The agreement calls for USRN to represent Stephan for affiliate relations and national ad sales. The deal involves three successful Stephan properties including the daily morning show “Doug Stephan’s Good Day” and the weekend programs “Good Day Weekend” and “Talk Radio Countdown.” The announcement of the new programming partnership was made jointly by Doug Stephan and USRN’s president/COO, Jim Higgins. Now in its 22nd year, “Doug Stephan’s Good Day” is among the top syndicated talk shows in the country. The program features caller-friendly morning talk, with a full lineup of news, weather, entertainment, business, travel and other lifestyle topics, and is broadcast live Monday-Friday from 4:00 am to 10:00 am ET. The program is a longtime staple of TALKERS magazine’s Top Talk Radio Audiences list and Stephan has been a member of the Heavy Hundred since its inception in the mid-1990s. “Talk Radio Countdown,” heard on weekends and hosted by Stephan, showcases the hot topics heard the previous week on America’s news/talk radio stations based on a top 10 list compiled by TALKERS magazine. “Good Day Weekend” which focuses on food and health, features Doug Stephan three hours live each Saturday morning from 6:00 am to 9:00am ET along with co-hosts Dr. Ken Kronhaus (on health) and The Supermarket Guru Phil Lempert (on food). On announcing the new agreement, USRN’s Jim Higgins tells TALKERS magazine, “’Doug Stephan’s Good Day’ gives affiliates, listeners and advertisers exactly what we feel is needed today…a chance to start the day with a non-confrontational and non-controversial block of topical and lifestyle news along with interviews with celebrities and newsmakers. We are excited to have a chance to help him to grow his show and maximize his hard work.” Stephan adds, “I’ve known and respected the folks at United Stations for a long time and I’m excited to be to tapping into their skills and their contacts to help us to expand our reach.” Doug Stephan will be speaking at and broadcasting from the forthcoming New Media Seminar 2010.

Former KVI, Seattle Promotions Staffer Charged in Contest Scam. Ryan Elizabeth Keeley served as promotion coordinator at Fisher’s KVI, Seattle and, during her short time in that position, allegedly pulled off a contest scam that netted an undisclosed amount of cash. Keeley was in charge of the “Secret Listener Salute” from 2007 in which names of listeners were read over the air and they had 30 minutes to call and claim their cash prize. She is accused of having the names of associates announced and she would receive a kickback. The scam came to light after Keeley left the station and the new promotions coordinator contacted a “winner” who never got his share of the cash and he tipped the station off. KVI alerted the authorities and the FCC to the situation. Keeley is charged with first-degree theft and some 14 others face second-degree theft.

WIP, Philadelphia’s Wing Bowl Promotion Enters 18th Year. CBS Radio’s sports talker WIP is holding Wing Bowl 18 – one of the biggest competitive eating competitions in the world — this Friday at Philly’s Wachovia Center. The contest, in which participants must consume as many chicken wings as possible in a period of time, only allows amateurs to take part but the prizes are very valuable: A 2010 Ford F-150 pickup truck to the winner, the Wingette of the year gets a 2010 Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster and a Wing Bowl charm and necklace, and the winning entourage receives a Mexican vacation for five people. The contest airs live on Angelo Cataldi’s morning show. Tickets are sold to attendees and a portion of the proceeds benefit the Philadelphia Police Department’s Survivor’s Fund.

Entercom New England Promotes Capuano to Director of AM Sales. John Capuano moves up from the director of sales position at news/talk WRKO to director of AM sales for Entercom New England. That puts Capuano in charge of selling sports WEEI and the WEEI Network, WRKO and The Howie Carr network, WEEI.com, WRKO.com, Red Sox Baseball on radio, Celtics Basketball on radio, and the “Patriots Monday” program. Entercom New England Market Manager/VP Julie Kahn says, “John has been an integral part of the WRKO sales team for the past five years and the promotion is well-deserved. He’s an industry veteran with exceptional sales, management and leadership skills. I look forward to working with him in his new role.”

KCSP, Kansas City Adds Pollard and King to Air Staff. Kansas Jayhawk and NBA star Scot Pollard and Yahoo! Sports writer Jason King join Entercom’s KCSP, Kansas City for on-air work. Pollard and King will make appearances on several of the station’s sports talk shows in a special contributor role. Program director Ryan Maguire says, “We’re thrilled to add Scot and Jason to our lineup. Their unique and entertaining insight into Big 12 Basketball are can’t-miss segments on our talk shows. 610 Sports Radio is already the ‘Home of the Jayhawks’ and with Scot and Jason on board to compliment that, we want be a destination station for college hoops fans.”

WAAF-FM, Boston Hosts “Brown Beer Summit.” Entercom’s rock WAAF-FM, Boston hosted newly elected Senator Scott Brown at the Stadium Bar in South Boston for a beer summit with 10 lucky listeners. The event came about after Brown, then a candidate, promised to have a beer summit with listeners if he won the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by Ted Kennedy. Few thought he would win the seat but after winning, Brown held true to his word and WAAF-FM listeners paid $10 to enter into a raffle to be among the 10 people to sit with Brown, share a beer and talk about their concerns. Proceeds from the promotion benefitted Homes for Our Troops.

Focus on the Family Surprised By Tebow Controversy. Focus on the Family president Jim Daly tells TALKERS magazine his organization was not expecting the controversy that’s surrounded the pro-life spot featuring Florida Gators quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow and his mother. “It’s not intended to be mean spirited or controversial. We just felt we love the Tebow family and wanted to raise awareness about a good choice Pam Tebow made. It’s a delicate subject but there are a lot of people in the middle. It doesn’t need to be a cultural war.” The 30-second ad, scheduled to air during the Super Bowl, tells Pam Tebow’s story of being diagnosed with placental abruption while doing missionary work in the Philippines and her doctor’s recommendation she abort the child for her health’s sake and to avoid giving birth to a child with severe birth defects, if he even survived the birthing process. She chose not to abort and Tim Tebow was born healthy. Groups opposed to the ad say Tebow’s story is rare and that the complication is very serious and people should not be getting what amounts to medical advice in a 30-second commercial. But there’s a legal angle, too. Former talk show host and high-profile attorney Gloria Allred says abortion has been totally illegal in the Philippines since 1930 and she therefore finds it hard to believe a doctor would recommend abortion. She says she’ll file complaints with the FCC and the FTC if the ad doesn’t acknowledge abortions were illegal in this case. TALKERS magazine spoke with Jim Daly about his increased role in its radio productions as Focus on the Family founder James Dobson exits the group he founded. Read about it in the February print edition of TALKERS magazine.

KFWB, Los Angeles Put into Trust. CBS Radio has received approval from the FCC to place news/talk KFWB, Los Angeles in an amended trust. The original application goes back to 2002 after CBS bought KCAL-TV and thereby went over the limit of what it could own in the market. The original application was for former Shamrock Broadcasting president Bill Clark to operate the KFWB License Trust. The approval remained in limbo over the past seven years. Now, the just-approved amendment changes the legal status of KFWB as being operated by a newly created trust, Clark Radio LLC, owned by Bill Clark. The term of the trust is five years and if CBS can find a buyer offering a fair price, you can wager the company will sell.

Barclays Capital Analysts Predict Uptick for Radio. It’s a little bit of a silver lining in the dark cloud of radio revenue but it’s a silver lining nonetheless. Barclays Capital analysts Anthony DiClemente and George Hawkey have changed their prediction for radio’s 2010 revenue from a negative to a positive – from -4% to +2.2%. They go on to say that things will dip into the negative with a -0.8% in 2011. While the positive change is seen as something good for an industry that, like competitors newspapers and local TV, has been hit hard by the economy and the changing media landscape, the long-term prediction is for radio’s slice of the U.S. advertising pie to continue to shrink. In 2000, radio had an 11.2% share of U.S. advertising dollars. DiClemente’s and Hawkey’s prediction for 2011 is 8.5%.

Free Talk Live Co-Host Draws Ire of Detroit Airport Authorities. Free Talk Live Host Ian Freeman tells TALKERS magazine his co-host Sam Dodson, who spent 58 days in jail last year in New Hampshire for refusing to tell police his name after video recording in a public court lobby, rankled Detroit airport authorities after videotaping TSA security procedures from a legal distance. Freeman says, “The TSA didn’t like him videoing their security procedures, so they proceeded to attempt to intimidate him, followed him and searched his bags with a bomb-sniffing dog.” Freeman says the series of videos Dodson shot are up on YouTube and the story grabbed the attention of Detroit television station WDIV-TV which labeled him “a group of vigilante journalists.” Dodson was recently interviewed by Peter Tilden on KABC, Los Angeles.

Former WFTL PD Takes Position with County Commissioner. Usually someone exiting the business isn’t exactly big news but Ken Pauli’s departure from James Crystal’s WFTL, Ft. Lauderdale due to budget cuts results in an interesting new position for him. He’s now serving as chief of staff for Broward County Commissioner Stacy Ritter. You probably better remember her as the local pol who objected to Clear Channel’s WIOD, Miami becoming the point station for emergency announcements and EAS activity because she believed many South Floridians would miss key information because they don’t listen to Rush Limbaugh. This was a big industry news item and Rush talked about it on his show. As Pauli notes, “Rush called her a ‘babe.’”

Traffic Plane Makes Emergency Landing on NJ Turnpike. A private plane hired by Metro Networks and used for traffic reporting for CBS’ KYW radio and TV in Philadelphia made an emergency landing on Monday (2/1) morning at approximately 7:00. The plane landed in the northbound lanes near Cherry Hill, New Jersey. No one was hurt but it took more than a half an hour to get the plane off the turnpike.

Cashin Named PD at Grand Rapids Talk Stations. Paul Cashin moves from Clear Channel’s WERC, Birmingham to Grand Rapids, Michigan to take the PD position at talk outlets WOOD, WTKG and sports WMAX-FM. Cashin fills the PD chair left vacant when Angie Vuyst headed south to program the company’s new FM news/talker WGBT-FM, Greensboro-Winston-Salem in January. No word yet who will replace Cashin at WERC.

Clear Channel’s Pittsburgh Sports Talker Debuts Local Morning Show. CC’s WBGG, Pittsburgh brings Greg Linnelli aboard to host the 6:00 am to 9:00 am morning drive show at the station that carries primarily Fox Sports Radio programming. The market is poised to get its third sports talk outlet soon as CBS Radio prepares to unveil KDKA-FM – The Fan on February 15. ESPN Radio’s WEAE also serves Pittsburgh’s sports fans.

KFNC, Houston Drops Calvin Murphy Show. The former Houston Rockets star is remaining with the Cumulus station in another capacity yet to be announced but his 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm show is being cancelled. To fill the time, KFNC is extending Fred Faour and Matt Dean’s “The Blitz” show to 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Carl Dukes moves from the 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm show to hosting 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm solo before being joined by PD Dave Tepper and Julie Takahashi for the 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm hours.

Tom Brookshier Dies at 78. Former Philadelphia Eagle and veteran sports broadcaster Tom Brookshier died on January 29 at age 78 after a battle with cancer. Brookshier and Pat Summerall were CBS’s lead TV play-by-play announcers during the 1970s. Later, Brookshier, as a part owner of WIP, Philadelphia, would be part of that station’s transition to sports talk in 1989. Brookshier was responsible for hiring Al Morganti and Angelo Cataldi to host a sports talk show on the station. Brookshier and Cataldi would host a program for two years during the station’s rise as a sports talk outlet.

Two AMs Go Dark in Canada. Corus is shutting down two Montreal AM stations. Oldies CINW and French all-news CINF are being shut down and the licenses returned to the CRTC. The company issues a statement on the stations’ website that says, in part, “Despite the excellence and dedication of station employees, Info 690 and AM940 are unprofitable. Corus Quebec and its employees worked to grow audience and revenues on both these stations while operating them as efficiently as possible. It is clear that these two AM stations are not viable, particularly in the current economic climate. This decision affects 10 positions, including eight positions at Info 690: three journalist positions, two traffic reporter positions and three operations positions.”

Westwood One Returns Fire at Forbes. Calling it “misleading and based on outdated and inaccurate information, and that it fails to cite the basis for its conclusions,” Westwood One takes issue with the story reported earlier in the week that it is one of a number of companies analyzed by Audit Integrity deemed most likely to fail this year. Westwood One goes on to say, “Audit Integrity purportedly used a series of ‘proprietary models’ to identify the 100 companies in its study, but failed to reconcile its study’s conclusions with the fact that, according to Audit Integrity, the average probability of bankruptcy for these same 100 companies is only 8%. It is extraordinarily misleading to associate phrases such as ‘risk lists’ and ‘likely to file for bankruptcy’ with these companies, when Audit Integrity’s own model reflects that a bankruptcy filing is unlikely to happen.” Westwood One further states that prior to publication of the article it “informed Audit Integrity that the article failed to appropriately reflect Westwood One’s 2009 recapitalization of its equity and refinancing of its long-term debt, which substantially strengthened the company’s capital and financial structure…Moreover, since the refinancing, Westwood One has posted positive EBITDA results every quarter.”

KDKA Names Mangino Evening Host. CBS Radio’s KDKA, Pittsburgh announces WKBN, Youngstown morning drive host Robert Mangino takes over the 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm talk show vacated when Mike Pintek moved to the midday slot that opened with the recent death of Fred Honsberger. Mangino, a resident of nearby New Castle, Pennsylvania, says it’s always been a dream of his to work at KDKA. “Now — to be following the great talk show hosts like John Cigna and Fred Honsberger and to work with Larry Richert, John Shumway, Marty Griffin and Mike Pintek — the dream has come true.” KDKA program director Marshall Adams says, “We’re very fortunate to have found Robert in our own backyard. Robert is a stand-out radio host who understands Pittsburgh issues and relates extraordinarily well to Pittsburghers.”

Parshall Exits Salem, Joins New Company. Longtime Salem Radio Network talk host Janet Parshall leaves the company and begins her radio career anew with the Chicago-based Moody Broadcasting Network. She is replaced on the Salem roster by Dallas talk host and journalist Janet Mefferd who’s been hosting a PM drive show at Salem’s Dallas Christian-teaching station KWRD-FM since June 2009. Parshall, who broadcasts a blend of secular and Christian talk radio, has been hosting a weekend show for Moody Broadcasting Network since 2008. She begins hosting the afternoon show there in the spring. Meanwhile, there is no official word on what, if anything, soured between Salem and Parshall but The Washington Times reports that some in the industry “cited budget reasons on the part of Salem; others said it involved personality clashes and that Mrs. Parshall had gone through a string of producers during her 15 years with the network.” Salem VP of news and talk programming Tom Tradup told the paper, “Personally, I love Janet Parshall. This transition is about as smooth a one as I’ve ever had. She has always been a joy to work with.”

Legal Pressures Forced J.D. Hayworth Off KFYI. The former Arizona Congressman, and now former talk host, J.D. Hayworth was pressured by Federal Election Commission regulations to give up his talk show or cease talking about Senator John McCain if he intended to run against him in the primary (which he says on MSNBC’s “Hardball” he is “99 and 44/100ths percent certain” he will do). KFYI owner Clear Channel was nervous about Hayworth’s on-air musings about challenging McCain combined with his criticism of the senator — enough to ask him to stop. Complaints have been filed with the FEC (by former and current McCain staffers) and it’s possible that if Hayworth runs, CC could be found to have made in-kind contributions to Hayworth’s campaign by allowing him to remain on the air as long as he did.

Kelly Exits Fisher, Launches Consultant Firm. Fisher Seattle programmer Dennis Kelly announces the start of his new company News Talk Concepts, Inc. as he exits Fisher where he programmed talk KVI and news KOMO. However, Kelly’s first client is Fisher so he’ll remain close to the stations. It’s unclear whether Fisher will hire a PD to handle the stations or whether Kelly will remain the sole programmer.

Online Sports Station Co-Founder Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud. David Hernandez, the Chicago businessman who co-founded the internet sports media station Chicago Sports Webio, pleads guilty to mail fraud for creating a Ponzi scheme that robbed some 250 people of $6 million dollars. Hernandez faces up to 14 years in prison. Hernandez and former WSCR, Chicago talk host Mike North created the internet sports talk station that went under in June 2009. Federal authorities had been investigating Hernandez but when payroll checks to Chicago Sports Webio staff began to bounce, the story became very public very quickly. North was not accused of any wrongdoing. In fact, he paid staffers out of his own pocket when checks began to bounce.

Entercom Shuffles General Managers. Entercom moves Alan Kirshbom from the Milwaukee cluster to Austin where he’ll manage the stations that include talk KJCE. Back in Milwaukee, Michael Keck, who managed stations with Entercom in Madison and Kansas City in the past, returns from the outdoor industry to take over the cluster that includes sports WSSP. Out in the maneuvers is Nancy Vaeth-DuBroff who exits the Austin GM post she’s held since October 2008.

Pintek Moves to Midday at KDKA. CBS Radio’s KDKA, Pittsburgh announced Mike Pintek takes over the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm show formerly hosted by Fred Honsberger who passed away December 16. Pintek had been hosting the “Pintek Tonight” evening program. SVP and market manager Michael Young says, “I’m delighted to have Mike take over KDKA’s midday time slot. Mike is passionate about the news and issues that affect our listening area and very much enjoys talking about them with the KDKA audience.” Pintek joined KDKA in 1982 as an anchor/reporter. The station is still looking for a permanent host for the evening show.

Former FEMA Director Joins KOA Airstaff. Michael Brown, former director of FEMA and most famous for being the recipient of President Bush’s “heckuva job, Brownie” compliment in regard to his agency’s response to Hurricane Katrina, joins Clear Channel’s KOA, Denver for the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm program. FEMA was roundly criticized for its response to the Katrina tragedy. Brown has been filling in the slot formerly held by “Gunny” Bob Newman who left the station in August.

ESPN Covers Super Bowl XLIV Buildup with Added Simulcasts. ESPN Radio’s “Mike & Mike in the Morning” is already simulcast on cable TV channel ESPN2. For its Super Week coverage, ESPN is simulcasting Colin Cowherd’s midday show on ESPNU and the Scott Van Pelt show on ESPN2. All three shows will also be streamed live on ESPNRadio.com.

Stephan Multimedia Lunches New Weekend Programming. Food and supermarket expert Phil Lempert teams up with Doug Stephan to host “Good Day Supermarket Guru,” part of Stephan Multimedia’s “Good Day Weekend” program. Lempert is well known by consumers for his role as food trends expert on NBC’s “Today Show” and ABC News Now. In the past, Lempert hosted his own radio program on the WOR Radio Network and on Sirius XM. “Good Day Weekend” is hosted by Doug Stephan and consists of “Good Day Health” and now “Good Day Supermarket Guru.” It airs live Saturday morning from 6:00 am to 9:00 am ET.

KCCT, Corpus Christi Flips to Talk/Music Hybrid. The former oldies station owned by Restless Communications announces it is flipping to a conservative talk station during the weekdays with classic country music on the weekend and NASCAR coverage as well. The station is expected to air Talk Radio Network’s Laura Ingraham, Salem Radio Network’s Michael Medved and Dennis Prager, Dial Global’s Neal Boortz and Michael Smerconish, plus Citadel Media’s Mark Levin.

WLS, Chicago Names Drew Hayes Operations Director. Citadel brings the man who was program director when WLS flipped from Top 40 to talk in 1989 back to take over the programming reins. Drew Hayes most recently served as programmer for CBS Radio’s crosstown all-news WBBM and sports WSCR, although his time in Chicago includes hosting a talk show on the old WMAQ in the mid-1980s. During his career Hayes also programmed KABC, Los Angeles; the ill-fated post-Howard Stern WCKG-FM; and was GM of ESPN Radio Network. New WLS general manager Michael Damsky says, “I was looking for someone with a sense of urgency, an ear for what people want to hear, a vision of what a radio station should sound like and strong local knowledge. In Drew, we’ll be getting all of that.” PM drive host Roe Conn, who was one of Hayes’ hires at WLS his first time around, says Hayes is “one of the great architects of modern talk radio. I couldn’t be more thrilled that we’re able to get the band back together.” Hayes takes over for Bob Shomper who was let go by Damsky last week.

KXNT, Las Vegas Covers Exciting Car Chase from Start to Finish. The CBS O&O news/talker outdid local TV at its own game Tuesday morning (1/26) as an armed gunman (possibly a murder suspect) was involved in a high speed police chase. The TV stations in town had helicopters following as the suspect did the usual reckless things including running lights and driving the wrong way. What was different about this chase was not the TV coverage but rather, the radio coverage. Newsradio 840, KXNT was reportedly the only radio station following this reality action adventure from start to finish. According to program director Jack Landreth, the morning show team really rose to the occasion as Alan Stock “did a great job as ringmaster while Kristen Flowers anchored and Ky Plaskon followed the chase in the KXNT News vehicle with some incredible play-by-play. Tate South was fantastic at covering changing traffic conditions, and Steven James kept news updated with police scanners and freeway reports.” Landreth goes on to tell TALKERS magazine, “With all of this, came many things. We were the only radio station reporting while the suspect drove all around the NW freeways and surface streets. KXNT’s reporting was extremely important to inform people to get out of the way, or just to tell a compelling story to someone listening out of the immediate area. When the suspect pulled into the Suncoast Casino, KXNT was the only station there, keeping people away as the gunman ran through the garage with his weapon pointed at Suncoast Security. And KXNT had multimedia when TV helicopters could not see in the garage, with KXNT e-mailing pictures of the scene up to the website as everything was ending. Even the sheriff called into KXNT to commend his officers on a positive outcome. From start to finish, everyone did a great job of serving the community. And as a caller said later on the morning show, ‘Thank you for keeping us safe.’”

CBS Announces Kucharz is President Local Digital Media. Ezra Kucharz is named president of local digital media by CBS executive Anton Guitano. Kucharz’s charge is to develop and execute the company’s local online media strategy utilizing the combined assets and digital operations of CBS’s 29 television stations and CBS Radio’s 36 news, sports and talk stations. Guitano says, “CBS has a tremendous opportunity to create a next generation local marketplace. We have an unparalleled collection of major-market television and radio broadcast outlets and a host of other resources across the corporation, to ensure that this initiative is a success. Working alongside Peter Dunn, Dan Mason and myself, we are confident that Ezra will give our new, combined local media business an online platform that will be top-of-mind for our audience and a valuable, targeted vehicle for our clients.” Kucharz comes from FiLife.com which CBS says has grown to the #4 personal finance site under his leadership.

Goldman Adds Affiliates. Compass Media Networks’ Norman Goldman is one host who’s been active adding stations to his roster as a result of Air America’s end. Compass Media CEO Peter Kosann says Goldman has added eight affiliates recently including WCPT, Chicago; KPOJ, Portland; KKGN, San Francisco; and WXXM-FM, Madison. FigMedia1’s Bill Figenshu, consultant to the show, says, “Norm is filling a huge hole in talk radio — His fierce independence is exactly the right position at the right time for today’s progressive audiences.”

Savage to Air on Sports KTRB, San Francisco. WorldNetDaily is reporting that after five months off the airwaves in San Francisco, Talk Radio Network star Michael Savage will return to the air there on Pappas’ KTRB. Savage was let go by Clear Channel’s KNEW in September saying Savage didn’t fit the station’s new direction. Savage has always had a deal for a home base station in San Francisco separate from his syndication deals through TRN. Savage drew a salary from KNEW. In a statement to WorldNetDaily, KTRB’s Ken Dennis calls KNEW’s decision to drop Savage a “classic fumble near the goal line” but did not report if Savage would be an employee of KTRB or whether the station would become an affiliate of the network. Savage starts at KTRB in an unannounced daypart February 1.

Westwood One Makes List of Companies Most Likely to Fail This Year. Predictions about success and failure are made all the time and many of them never come true. But Westwood One can’t be happy about appearing on the list put together for Forbes by the firm Audit Integrity ranking 2,700 companies’ financial risk. Westwood One appeared at #4 behind Eastman Kodak, The Bon-Ton Stores and US Airways. Some firms on the list dispute Audit Integrity’s methodology and say it doesn’t take into account some important financial data but Audit Integrity chairman James Kaplan tells Forbes, “We find governance and transparency correlate with bankruptcy.”

Beck America’s Second Favorite TV Personality. Premiere Radio Networks and Fox News Channel superstar Glenn Beck comes in #2, right behind Oprah Winfrey, in a recent Harris poll of favorite TV personalities. The Harris Poll was conducted online between December 7 and 14 and was made up of 2,276 adults. Beck surged ahead of last year’s #1 Jay Leno, who falls to #3 this year.

Marks Exits CBS Radio’s WJZ-FM, Baltimore. Anita Marks, one half of the Scott Garceau and Anita Marks afternoon drive show on CBS Radio’s “Fan 105.7,” leaves the station after being unable to come to terms on a contract renewal. Marks says she and the company weren’t able to agree on a deal that would allow her to explore her TV options and remain with the radio station. Marks had been with the station for four years and her and Garceau’s show was simulcast on the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network cable channel. Garceau will host the show solo for now.

Shomper Out as WLS PD. A little more than a week after Michael Damsky took over the GM position at Citadel’s news/talk WLS, Chicago from Mike Fowler, Damsky lets program director Bob Shomper go. In a statement to the station’s staff, Damsky says in part, “As we evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of WLS-AM, we realized that we needed a program director with a different vision to capitalize on all of the opportunities that this compelling news environment and exciting political season present our station. We will immediately begin looking for the person with that vision.” Shomper joined WLS a little more than a year ago, coming from crosstown WGN and taking over for Kipper McGee who had been ousted from the PD position.

Cuts at Tribune’s WGN, Chicago. Last week’s announcement by WGN that it is preparing to exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection soon isn’t coming without some pain. WGN takes Bob Sirott off the “Noon Hour” show and hands it to John Williams who now hosts from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Producers Rick O’Connor and Zack Christensen exit as Steve Cochran’s and Milt Rosenberg’s respective producers. Veteran City Hall reporter Dave Stewart is let go after 28 years with the station. Former Chicago Bear Glen Koslowski , co-host of the weekend “Sports Central” show, is also out as are several off-air staffers. It remains a possibility that WGN is trying to find some wiggle room for Jonathon Brandmeier on its air staff but Brandmeier is used to being paid a lot of money and it appears in this new era, even major-market radio talent is going to have to get used to working for less.

Hayworth Exits PM Drive Show at KFYI; to Challenge McCain for His Senate Seat. Former politician and talk show host J.D. Hayworth and KFYI, Phoenix management agree to end Hayworth’s employment as host of the afternoon drive show so Hayworth can make good on his plan to challenge Senator John McCain (R-AZ) in the Republican primary (although he has not officially declared his candidacy yet). Morning host Mike Broomhead will take over the afternoon show. Clear Channel Phoenix market manager Jeff England tells TALKERS magazine, “We have enjoyed a wonderfully productive relationship with J.D. As he contemplates the next chapter in his long and distinguished career, we have agreed that his decision would best be made without the pressures of performing a daily radio show.” Hayworth will go up against fellow McCain and position himself as a more traditional conservative. Hayworth served in Congress representing the 5th District of Arizona from 1995 to 2007.

Curtis Gets Close with Glenn. WNYM, New York talk host Curtis Sliwa poses for photo with actress Glenn Close on January 19 at the recent premiere screening of the FX TV show “Damages” at the AXA Equitable Center in New York City. Sliwa’s voice appears in the series as belonging to a talk host who berates Close’s character Patty Hewes.

Hogan Says Clear Channel Would Be Stern’s Best Bet. Clear Channel Radio president John Hogan responded to the media reports of Howard Stern’s on-air chat with Bubba the Love Sponge speculating about the former’s possible return to terrestrial radio and their griping about Clear Channel by telling Bloomberg’s Business Week that Clear Channel would be the logical choice for Stern if he could work within the limits of over-the-air radio. “We clearly have both the willingness and the financial wherewithal to consider high-profile talent. We would be the most logical company for him to optimize his exposure and financial return.” Clear Channel took Stern’s radio show off six markets in 2004 due to concerns about indecency issues and Stern’s never forgiven the company. As Stern’s contract with Sirius XM winds down at the end of this year, expect a lot of speculation and chatter about a possible return to radio for Stern.

Ron Reagan Stays on With KTPK, Seattle. The demise of Air America Media has some of the nation’s progressive talk outlets making quick programming decisions to fill the holes left by the AAM talent. However, one of those hosts – Ron Reagan – gets a position with one of his affiliates. CBS Radio’s KPTK, Seattle announces it brings Reagan aboard its staff for a daily show. Air America had some very good radio talent on its staff and it remains to be seen if some radio companies and/or syndicators will snap up such quality hosts as Jack Rice, Nicole Sandler and Lionel — to name just a few. Rachel Maddow may be satisfied with her MSNBC gig and have less interest in a full-time radio show (she’d already cut it down to one hour per day).

Air America Media Ceases Operations. In a memo to staff sent shortly after 4:30 pm ET on Thursday, January 21, Air America Media chairman Charlie Kireker announced the company would cease live programming as of 6:00 pm ET and would cease operations entirely on Monday, January 25. “It is with the greatest regret, on behalf of our Board, that we must announce that Air America Media is ceasing its live programming operations as of this afternoon and that the company will file soon under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code to carry out an orderly winding-down of the business. The very difficult economic environment has had a significant impact on Air America’s business. This past year has seen a ‘perfect storm’ in the media industry generally. National and local advertising revenues have fallen drastically, causing many media companies nationwide to fold or seek bankruptcy protection. From large to small, recent bankruptcies like Citadel Broadcasting and closures like that of the industry’s long-time trade publication Radio and Records have signaled that these are very difficult and rapidly changing times. Those companies that remain are facing audience fragmentation as a result of new media technologies, are often saddled with crushing debt, and have generally found it difficult to obtain operating or investment capital from traditional sources of funding. In this climate, our painstaking search for new investors has come close several times right up into this week, but ultimately fell short of success. ” Kireker states all employees will be compensated through 1/21 and those full-time employees with six months or more of tenure will be offered a severance package.

Stephanie Miller Named Emcee of New Media Seminar 2010. The directors of NMS 2010 have named nationally syndicated talk radio star Stephanie Miller as the emcee of the forthcoming New Media Seminar in New York City. Miller, who broadcasts a bi-coastal morning program, from New York and Los Angeles live weekdays between 9:00 am and 12:00 noon ET is known for her fast-paced, quick-witted progressive politics and unique position among the big names in modern-day talk. Her program, which is produced by WYD Media Managmenent and syndicated by Dial Global, is one of the most successful progressive talk radio programs in the industry. She is also a high-profile regular guest on all the leading cable TV talk programs and an emerging force in online talk broadcasting and podcasting. The role of “emcee” at the New Media Seminar includes a comedic monologue satirizing the talk industry which opens the Saturday morning events. It has been performed in the past by such notables as Sean Hannity, Alan Colmes, Dr. Joy Browne, Lionel and more. This will mark Stephanie Miller’s second time in the position. Upon the NMS directors naming Stephanie Miller as this year’s emcee, TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison states, “Stephanie Miller is perfect for the task. She is a beautiful, funny, entertaining and compelling star in this field. When she gets up there at the podium the New Media Seminar rocks!” The New Media Seminar is the talk media industry’s longest running and largest national convention. It takes place March 19-20 in New York City. For registration, hotel and sponsorship information call 413-739-8255.

Supreme Court Ruling to Have Impact on Media Revenues and Conversation. With its 5-4 ruling in favor of Citizens United in the Citizens United v. FEC, the Supreme Court says corporations and unions are not prohibited from spending money to support or oppose candidates and ballot questions in elections. That should mean a lot more money for broadcasters during election seasons. The ruling does not affect how much can be donated directly to candidates by individuals or political action committees – those rules remain in effect. The courts have generally viewed the rights of individuals and corporations differently with regard to the First Amendment but this decision changes that. Although at first glance, in the short run this new ruling promises to bring increased political advertising and revenue to radio stations, many political observers fear that it opens the door to corporate domination of the American political process. We can expect this to be a hot, controversial political issue in the coming weeks and months.

FCC Looks at the Future of Media. As promised when it brought former journalist and internet entrepreneur Steven Waldman aboard as a special advisor to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, the commission is beginning its examination of the future of media. Chairman Genachowski says, “We are at a critical juncture in the evolution of American media. Rapid technological change in the media marketplace has created opportunities for tremendous innovation. It has also caused financial turmoil for traditional media, calling into question whether these media outlets will continue to play their historic role in providing local communities with essential news and civic information. With this crucial initiative, the FCC commits to fully understanding the fundamental changes underway in the media marketplace and examining what impact such changes may have for commission policies, while vigorously protecting the First Amendment.” Waldman heads up the working group of experts within the FCC. The topics that will be addressed include: the state of TV, radio, newspaper and Internet news and information services; the effectiveness and nature of public interest obligations in a digital era; the role of public media and private sector foundations; and many others. Genachowski says the initiative will not include any effort to control the editorial content of any type of media.

Howard Stern Teases Terrestrial Return. Sirius XM talk radio legend Howard Stern spoke on the “Bubba the Love Sponge” program recently about the offers he’s received from radio operators to return to the terrestrial world when his Sirius XM contract expires at the end of this year. He offered no specifics other than to say he has no “bona fide offer” but that several parties have made overtures. It’s hard to gauge whether Stern is serious about a return to radio after five years of freedom from the FCC and a very healthy paycheck that seems to be beyond the reach of anything terrestrial radio could offer in these economic conditions.

Ken Duffy Named PM News Anchor at WABC. WABC, New York program director Laurie Cantillo announces award-winning journalist Ken Duffy moves over from Fox News Radio where he was a news anchor to take the same position with WABC during the afternoon throughout the Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Mark Levin programs. Cantillo says, “Ken is a brilliant writer and master of sound. He knows what the 77 WABC audience cares about and his delivery is conversational and compelling. We’re delighted to have an anchor of Ken’s caliber on board.”

KTAR, Phoenix Moves Host to Digital Platform. Bonneville’s sports talk KTAR, Phoenix is ending its “The 620 Sportsline” evening talk show and moving host Dave Burns into the newly created position digital media host. Burns’ duties will include creating and developing new audio, video and text for KTAR.com and numerous social media channels. KTAR PD Ryan Hatch tells TALKERS magazine, “Moving a popular talk show host off air and into the digital space fulltime is uncharted territory in our industry and it reinforces our commitment to innovate and provide unparalleled local sports content both on air and online. There’s no doubt that Dave is the ideal personality to drive this new initiative and we’re excited to see the unique content that he produces.” Burns will also contribute to KTAR’s Doug & Wolf and Gambo & Ash radio programs as we as continue to host Diamondbacks pre- and post-game shows.

WEEI, Boston Unveils New iPhone App. The new version of the iPhone app that allows users to access content from Entercom’s sports talker WEEI, Boston – dubbed “WEEI Live” — is available. It’s being touted by the station as “the most complete sports radio and news application available for the iPhone.” WEEI.com president and GM Tim Murphy says, “If you love Boston sports, this application will provide optimal utility in terms of staying real-time aware of all news and opinions regarding your favorite teams. The ability to listen to live WEEI audio while scrolling through news, scores and stories is an amazing breakthrough for iPhone users. The functionality of the application will give fans a full 360-degree Boston sports experience right in the palms of their hands. This app is the hyper-local mashup of everything the sports fans of our local teams expects.”

Steve Gill Hosts New Health Care Forum. Nashville-based talk host Steve Gill – heard locally in morning drive on WLAC and in national syndication via Radio America – is producing a “Healthcare Reform Town Hall Forum” on February 3 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm live from the Union Station Hotel in downtown Nashville. Gill says he’s holding the forum in the wake of Republican Scott Brown’s winning the U.S. Senate seat formerly occupied by Democrat Edward Kennedy and the effective end of the Democrats’ filibuster-proof majority. The program will air live on WLAC. The event is open to the public and panelists will include: Tennessee Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey; Tennessee Center for Policy Research Director of Policy Justin Owens; Rusty Siebert, healthcare policy expert and former Director of TennCare; Tony Garr, Executive Director Tennessee Healthcare Campaign; and attorney and Democratic Party activist/political strategist Larry Woods.

Westwood One Woos Schreck Back. Michael Schreck returns to Westwood One as the director of sports sales after nine months in a similar position with Dial Global. Schreck originally joined Westwood One as an account executive from the New York Mets organization in March 2006 and was promoted to national sports manager in 2008. WW1 president Gary Schonfeld says, “The most coverage, biggest stations, Hall of Fame broadcasters…only the best and brightest meet the Westwood One Sports standard. It’s with great enthusiasm that we welcome Michael Schreck back into the Westwood One family.”

Elvis Duran to Address New Media Seminar 2010. Highly successful syndicated CHR morning host Elvis Duran will serve as a key solo speaker at the forthcoming New Media Seminar. Duran, who has hosted “The Elvis Duran Morning Show” at Clear Channel’s New York City powerhouse WHTZ-FM (Z-100) since 1996 and is syndicated live on more than 20 stations around the country, will address the fascinating topic, “CHR Talk Radio: A Different Brand on a Different Band,” in which he will discuss what it is like doing “talk” in the morning within the context of a hot hit music station. This will include working within the format of an ensemble cast of characters and dealing with the celebrity/publicist/lifestyle industry. According to TALKERS magazine managing editor Kevin Casey, “Duran is a giant in a branch of spoken word commercial radio that is often overlooked by practitioners of what is considered more traditional talk and news/talk. With the invasion by talk of the FM dial already underway, not to mention the unlimited potential styles and target audiences waiting to be served, the presence of Elvis Duran at this year’s NMS will add an important and productive dimension to its powerful agenda.” Duran is scheduled to speak on Friday, March 19 at approximately 2:00 pm. New Media Seminar 2010 takes place in New York City March 19-20. For registration, hotel, and sponsorship information call 413-739-8255.

FCC Creates Consumer Task Force. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski announces the creation of a Consumer Task Force to advance the commission’s consumer agenda and promote collaboration across the agency. Joel Gurin, Chief of the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, will head the cross-agency task force. Genachowski says, “The goal of protecting and empowering consumers is among the commission’s most important responsibilities. As communications networks and technologies become increasingly complex and essential to Americans’ everyday lives, the commission must be a vigilant watchdog for the consumer. While we have one bureau with ‘consumer’ in its name, consumers are vital to the work of each of our bureaus and offices. Cross-agency collaboration is critical to this effort and that’s why I am so pleased to launch the Consumer Task Force.” Commissioner Michael Copps was effusive in his praise for the move and chided the Kevin Martin-led commission in his comments about the new, proactive arm of the commission. “The decisions this body makes affect consumers in so many ways. Whether it’s wireless devices, landline telephones, public safety or the media — there’s always a consumer impact…Too often in recent years we have lost sight of this — and it has cost consumers. It’s cost them a lot. Our lack of competitive focus in telecommunications is one example and it raised consumer bills, I believe, by billions of dollars. Our blissful blessing of evermore media industry consolidation was another costly assault on consumer wellbeing — not to mention citizen well-being. The list goes on. Today we put in place a mechanism to discourage that kind of decision-making.”

Dave Ramsey Producer Assisting in Haiti. Dave Ramsey show senior producer Blake Thompson has been in Haiti since Monday (1/18) working with the organization Safe Water Nexus to help deliver food and medical supplies to those in need. Thompson is using mobile technology to keep his friends and family posted on his status. On Wednesday he posted the following on Facebook immediately following the 6.1 aftershock that startled the nation, “Just woke up to a ‘swaying bed’ and had to run out of the house we are in. House moved for about 4-5 seconds. Guessing that’s what a tremor feels like. Not a big fan!”

KIRO-FM Names Thomas AM Drive Co-Host. Linda Thomas joins Gregg Hersholt on Bonneville’s KIRO-FM, Seattle on “Seattle’s Morning News.” Program director Rod Arquette tells TALKERS magazine, “It’s great to have Linda joining our team. Her knowledge of the Pacific Northwest, her credentials as a journalist and her complete involvement in the social media environment are the attributes we were looking for in selecting our new co-host. Linda is a very warm and caring person and I think listeners, who already know her work, will enjoy having her back on the air and those who will get to know her will find a real friendly voice to wake up with every morning.” Thomas has been a journalist for 24 years. She has been a freelance broadcast, print and online journalist, writing for local publications including The Seattle Times, Reuters, Puget Sound Business Journal, and Seattle’s Child magazine.

MTV and Westwood One Offer Haiti Benefit to Radio Stations. The “Hope for Haiti Now” benefit for earthquake ravaged Haiti hosted by George Clooney Friday evening at 8:00 pm ET is being made available to any and all radio stations that would like to carry it. The program is being made for TV and will be airing on the major TV and cable networks but the audio version is also available on a non-exclusive basis via MTV’s partner Westwood One.

“Those Advice Guys” Add Barstein for Affiliate Sales. Zim Barstein joins the staff of John Owens’ and Randy Steele’s “Those Advice Guys” weekend talk show handling affiliate relations for the program. Barstein has worked at the WOR Radio Network, and Business Talk Radio Network. “Those Advice Guys” is fed on Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm via Citadel Satellite Services for broadcast during the weekend.

Lex & Terry Lose Dallas Flagship KEGL-FM. The syndicated morning drive show hosted by Lex Staley and Terry Jaymes is produced at Clear Channel’s KEGL-FM “The Eagle” and will continue to be produced there for the time being but the duo will not air on the station as market manager J.D. Freeman tells the Dallas Observer the station decided it needed to move in a more music, less talk direction for the station’s morning drive daypart. The Lex & Terry program is heard on approximately 25 affiliates across the country.

Pete Sheppard Exits WEEI. Entercom’s sports juggernaut WEEI, Boston announces it eliminates the sports anchor position held by Pete Sheppard for more than 10 years and market manager Julie Kahn and program director Jason Wolfe say regretfully that is was for budgetary reasons. Sheppard was part of the ensemble cast of Glenn Ordway’s “The Big Show” afternoon drive show.

Emmis Appoints Indianapolis Programmers. Emmis announces Alan Furst is the new director of talk programming for the company’s Indianapolis cluster that includes heritage talker WIBC-FM and sports WFNI – The Fan. At the same time, David Wood becomes program director of WFNI and sister AC WYXB-FM. Furst most recently served as senior vice president for content at DMX, Inc. Longtime WIBC program director Jon Quick was let go in cost-cutting maneuvers in March of 2009. Both Furst and Wood report to director of programming Bob Richards.

Sirius XM Reports Subscriber Uptick; Positive Free Cash Flow. Ahead of next month’s full report on 2009, Sirius XM CEO Mel Karmazin issues a release stating the company is pleased with the more than 250,000 net subscribers it added in the fourth quarter of 2009. Karmazin also says, “Based on preliminary financial data, we expect to report over $100 million of free cash flow for 2009, an extraordinary improvement over the pro forma negative free cash flow of $552 million that the company experienced in 2008. This is the first year in our history that we have generated positive free cash flow for the entire year. Our fourth quarter subscriber results mark two consecutive quarters of net subscriber additions for Sirius XM and are the highest since the third quarter of 2008. Improvements in automotive sales, conversion rates and better than anticipated self-pay churn suggest that the outlook for the auto sector and the effects of the economy on our business are beginning to improve.”

KMBZ Partners with Local TV Affiliate. Entercom news/talk outlet KMBZ, Kansas City enters into a deal with Hearst Television’s KMBC-TV to share news, weather and traffic resources. KMBZ program director Neal Larrimore tells TALKERS magazine, “We are thrilled to announce that starting today 980 KMBZ is partnering with KMBC Channel 9 to ensure news consumers get the best, most comprehensive news, weather and traffic information in the metro.” Larrimore says the KMBZ “Morning News with EJ and Ellen” will utilize content from KMBC-TV’s weather reporter Joel Nichols and traffic reporter Johnny Rowlands.

Andy Furman to Return to Cincinnati Airwaves. After years talking sports at Clear Channel’s WLW, Cincinnati and then a stint at Cumulus’ short-lived FM talk experiment WFTK-FM, Andy Furman has been off the radio for more than two years. Now it appears Furman is set to return with an afternoon drive show on Christian Broadcasting System’s WQRT licensed to Florence, Kentucky (right across the Ohio River). Furman will reportedly host the 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm local show on the otherwise-syndicated station.

Turner Makes Three in Tampa. Allyson Turner is named co-host of the “AM Tampa Bay” morning drive program on WFLA, Tampa alongside Jack Harris and Ted Webb. Turner served at Beasley’s WQAM, Miami as a producer and programmed WAXY before that. Turner begins at WFLA on January 25. Sharon Taylor had been co-host with Harris and Webb for the past 10 years until early September of 2009 when her contract was not renewed. At the time, Tampa market manager Dan DiLoreto told TampaBay.com, with regard to Taylor’s departure, “It was not a cost-cutting issue. The format’s doing quite well.”

KOZN, Omaha Sports Host Named Sportscaster of the Year. Kevin Kugler, host of KOZN’s “Unsportsmanlike Conduct,” receives the 2009 Nebraska Sportscaster of the Year award from the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association. The NSSA consists of approximately 700 leading sportscasters and sportswriters from around the country who work to honor and preserve the accomplishments and legacies of American sportscasters and sportswriters. KOZN program director Neil Nelkin says of Kugler, “I’ve worked in the broadcasting industry for decades and I’ve only come across one guy like Kugler. He is one of the finest sportscasters I have ever had the opportunity to work with and he’s still young in his career. He not only deserves the honor, I think he will own the title for years to come because of his innate talents and his love of Nebraska sports.”

University of Florida Radio Network Staffer Faces Child Porn Charges. Gators football network coordinator Steve Babik has been let go by the university after being charged with receipt, distribution and possession of child pornography. University officials say they became aware of the allegations in November and suspended Babik immediately. In addition to off-air duties, Babik hosted the “TailGator” pre-game talk show on the network. Babik faces up to 30 years in prison and $500,000 in fines if convicted on all the charges.

TALKERS magazine to Launch First Annual Talk Media Energy Symposium. TALKERS magazine is announcing plans to present a serious discussion among public officials, experts and a variety of talk media personalities that will tackle the all-encompassing issue of energy independence. The forum titled the “Talk Media Energy Symposium” will take place as an adjunct to the forthcoming New Media Seminar 2010 in New York on Friday, March 19 between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm, immediately prior to the first session of the NMS, and will be open to New Media Seminar registrants at no additional charge. The event is the brainchild of Texas Railroad Commissioner Elizabeth Ames Jones, a former Texas Legislator who was then elected to the statewide Commission office in 2006. For almost 100 years the Texas Railroad Commission has regulated all aspects of oil and natural gas – from the drill bit to the burner tip – in the largest energy-producing state in the country. They also oversee the extraction of coal and uranium. She served as chairman of the three-member commission from 2005-2007. Ames Jones will serve as host, sponsor and a panelist in the discussion that will be moderated by Blanquita Cullum, talk radio’s crusading member of the United States Broadcasting Board of Governors. Other participants on the panel will be named shortly. According to TALKERS magazine publisher and NMS director Michael Harrison, “We are thrilled to be able to present such an important discussion to the talk media industry – one that will not only cover a variety of viewpoints on what is arguably the most important umbrella topic of the new century, but also will pull back the veil of mystery, ignorance and misinformation that obscures clear and productive thinking on the issue of energy.” Harrison goes on to say, “It is an honor and privilege to have made the acquaintance of and have the opportunity to work with Commissioner Ames Jones on this worthy project. She is clearly a dedicated public servant – deeply immersed in the issue of energy as it directly impacts the State of Texas – and one of the most knowledgeable individuals in America when it comes to the daunting task of connecting the dots between the science, economics and politics of the quest for energy independence.” Among the subtopics to be covered include the significant potential of domestic natural gas, how the big oil companies operate, the science and politics of global warming, making sense of alternative fuels and energy sources and much more. The New Media Seminar is the longest-running and largest annual professional talk media convention. This year’s installment will take place in New York City on Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20. For registration, sponsorship and hotel information call 413-739-8255.

ESPN’s Mike Greenberg Apologizes for “Garbling” Slur. One half of ESPN Radio’s “Mike & Mike in the Morning” says it was a mistake and not in any way an intentional or joking reference to Martin Luther King, Jr. as “Martin Luther Coon” during yesterday morning’s program. Greenberg issued the following statement last night, “I just came home from the Knicks game and found out about the mess that was created by my garbling a sentence on our show this morning. I apologize for not addressing it sooner. And I’m sorry that my talking too fast – and slurring my words – might have given people who don’t know our show the wrong impression about us, and about me. I feel horrible about that because nothing could be further away from who I am and what our show is about. I would never say anything like that, not in public, or in private, or in the silence of my own mind and neither would anyone associated with our show, and I’m very sorry that my stumble this morning gave so many people the opposite impression.”

Talk Radio Covers the Massachusetts Senate Race. The January 19 special election to fill the U.S. Senate Seat left open by the death of Edward Kennedy took on monumental importance with Republican State Senator Scott Brown’s impossible surge to beat Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley with 52% of the vote. The idea of a Republican winning the seat was considered absurd six weeks ago but with the Democrats’ Senate supermajority on the line many considered this race in generally liberal Massachusetts a litmus test for health care reform and the Obama Administration as a whole. Sirius XM dedicated its POTUS channel to coverage of the election. Joe Mathieu hosted a special edition of “The Press Pool” featuring political analysts included: Former Massachusetts governor and Democratic presidential nominee Michael Dukakis; John Walsh, Chair, Massachusetts Democratic State Party; former Boston Mayor Raymond L. Flynn; Massachusetts House Minority Leader Brad Jones; Massachusetts State Representative Kathi-Anne Reinstein; Boston Globe reporter Matt Viser, and Boston Phoenix political reporter David Bernstein. Entercom’s WRKO, Boston pre-empted Rush Limbaugh with local host Avi Nelson who also hosted an evening program following Howie Carr and remained on air into the evening. Across the street at Greater Media’s WTKK-FM, following Jay Severin’s local PM drive broadcast, host Michele McPhee broadcast live from F1 Boston’s Ascari Restaurant in Braintree. She was joined by 96.9’s Michael Graham and other special guests. Talk host Hank Morse followed McPhee from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am.

Phil Hendrie Nabs Affiliate #100. TRN-FM late night talk star Phil Hendrie hits the 100-affilaite mark with the signing of a dozen new stations including: KFXR, Dallas; WAXY, Miami; WPTF, Raleigh; WSJS, Greensboro; WLEE, Richmond; WROW, Albany; KDXE, Little Rock; KQAM, Wichita; WPNN, Pensacola; KCNR, Redding, California; WINI, Marion-Carbondale, Illinois; and KBHS, Hot Springs, Arkansas.

“Malcolm Out Loud” Dropped by WWBA, Tampa. Local afternoon drive host Malcolm Teasdale loses his “Malcolm Out Loud” program on the Genesis Communications station after three months. Teasdale is a well-known business consultant who specializes in “developing Creative Minds to harness the power of Big Ideas.” The station says in a statement, “A lot of time and energy was put into The “Malcolm Out Loud.” Unfortunately we were unable to come to an equitable agreement to continue working together with both parties agreeing it was time to move in a different direction. We wish Malcolm the best of luck.”

Citadel Consolidates Birmingham Sports Programming. Citadel takes Jim Dunaway and Ryan Brown off their “Dunaway and Brown” show on WSPZ, Birmingham and moves them over to sister sports talker WJOX-FM, Birmingham where they join Lance Taylor on “The Roundtable.” The former midday competitors will now be simulcast on both WJOX-FM and WSPZ. Out in the shuffle is Brien Straw who exits “The Roundtable.” Citadel is simulcasting almost all of its WJOX-FM programming on WSPZ now.

WTIC, Hartford Host on Medical Leave. Mid-morning talk host Jim Vicevich is dealing with a health issue that requires him to miss his radio show so morning drive host Ray Dunaway adds an extra hour to his day and stays on through the 9:00 am hour while the station plugs in the “Best of Hannity” for the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon time slot.

Former Twin Cities Sports Talker to Serve Out Entire Sentence. Jeff Dubay co-hosted a sports talk show on Clear Channel’s KFAN, Minneapolis until October of 2008 when he was arrested for possession of crack cocaine. He was sentenced to 180 days in the Ramsey County workhouse and served 92 of those before going into in-patient rehab but, according to KARE-TV, failed drug tests there. He is now being ordered to finish his sentence in the workhouse. Dubay co-hosted the “PA and Dubay” show with Paul Allen for 10 years on KFAN before his arrest.

WHAS, Louisville Talk Host Francene Dies at 43. WHAS talk host Francene Cucinello, who went by her first name on the radio, died unexpectedly at age 43 on Friday, January 15. Cucinello suffered a heart attack on Monday, January 11 followed by a brain aneurysm on Wednesday. Francene Cucinello was a New Jersey native who got her start in media doing television news. She also worked at KTRS, St. Louis before moving to WHAS in 2003. WHAS OM Kelly Carls issued the following statement: “Francene was an energetic force of nature, who combined a reporter’s zeal for digging up the facts with an entertainer’s flair for making them interesting. Through it all, her goal was always singular: bringing the truth to her listeners and fans. Off the air, she was known as a compassionate friend, a tireless worker for charitable causes, and someone who could always be counted on in a time of need. Francene’s passing leaves a void in our family and our community. We can take comfort that her legacy will live on in the good works she left behind, and in the many lives she enriched along her journey.”

Brandmeier Rumored to Be Headed to WGN. Jonathon Brandmeier is reportedly very likely returning to the Chicago airwaves on Tribune’s WGN. Robert Feder reports on Vocalo.org that Brandmeier was recently seen being given a tour of the WGN facilities by program director Kevin Metheny. Although it wouldn’t be unusual for WGN to talk to any prospective talent, Brandmeier has the kind of quirky humor and appeal to younger demos that WGN is seeking to bring a little youth to the venerable heritage station. Brandmeier lost his most recent gig at WLUP-FM in November after four years at the station.

Damsky Named GM at WLS, Chicago. Michael Damsky, director of sales for Citadel Chicago is named the GM of news/talker WLS immediately replacing Mike Fowler. Citadel issued a press release with a statement from CEO Farid Suleman: “I have known and worked with Michael Damsky for a long time and I know his background will be critical in taking both of our stations to new highs.” About Damsky, Citadel notes he began his radio career at WFYR-FM in 1980. “Damsky sold at WFYR-FM from 1980 to 1984. Starting as an AE at WXRT-FM, he spent the next 24 years there adding titles such as national sales manager, general sales manager and ultimately VP/general manager. He is most proud of his participation in the launch of The Score (WSCR), doubling WXRT’s share of market revenue from ’94 to ’04 and maximizing the revenue of WLS-AM and FM over the last two years.”

All-News Rules Revenues in New York City. Crain’s Business New York reports that according to the Miller Kaplan revenue report, New York City’s two all-newsers WCBS and WINS came in #1 and #2 respectively in the revenue race for 2009. Following up in third place was CHR WHTZ-FM followed by soft AC WLTW-FM and sports WFAN in the number five position. The article also notes that revenue for the New York market in December was up 4.3% after a huge slide in December of 2008.

Limbaugh’s Haiti Comments Certain to Cause a Stir. Speaking on his Premiere Radio Networks nationally syndicated program, Rush Limbaugh indicated he wouldn’t advise people to learn where they can donate to Haitian relief via the White House website because they will end up on an Obama campaign e-mail list as a result. He also indicated the U.S. people already help Haiti through foreign aid garnered through our income tax. White House press secretary Robert Gibbs called Limbaugh’s comments on the issue “really stupid.” This follows on the heels of Pat Robertson’s statement on his TV show where he theorizes that the Haitians are paying for a pact they made with the devil long ago to liberate them from the French. Robertson did, however, encourage people to pray for the people of Haiti.

Limbaugh Second to Cheney According to Brits. The British newspaper The Telegraph published its “100 Most Influential Conservatives” list with the top 20 coming it the Friday (1/15) edition and Rush Limbaugh was not #1 – Dick Cheney took that distinction. Limbaugh did come in at #2. Other broadcast/digital media people to make the list were: Matt Drudge (#3), Glenn Beck (#6), Roger Ailes (#7), Mike Huckabee (#20), Andrew Breitbart (#21), Sean Hannity (#23), Mark Levin (#26), Laura Ingraham (#28), and Michelle Malkin (#42). For more on the conservative side, see the Michael Savage story below.

Oprah Tops Telegraph’s Liberal List. The Telegraph also published a list of the “100 Most Influential Liberals in America” and TV talk queen Oprah Winfrey is the top talk media figure at #7 (President Obama is #1). Other broadcast/digital media figures making the list are: Arianna Huffington (#12), Jon Stewart (#30), Stephen Colbert (#46), Keith Olbermann (#67), and Chris Matthews (#92). Notable media figures missing from this list include Ed Schultz, Thom Hartmann, Randi Rhodes and other America progressive talk hosts – especially considering the Obama’s dog Bo made the list at #80.

Tom Joyner’s Haiti Broadcast Aborted. Reach Media syndicated morning drive host Tom Joyner flew into the Dominican Republic but was not able to find a secure location in Haiti from which to broadcast so he returned to Miami and broadcasts his show from there. Joyner says he remains dedicated to helping the Haitian people and encourages people to reach out to friends and family through his blackamericaweb.com.

Sirius XM Announces Intense Listenership Among Affluent Adults. In a study conducted by Arbitron of the satcaster’s subscribers, Sirius XM says it discovers more than 35 million total adult listeners tune in to Sirius XM’s spoken-word channels – the ones on which the company sells ads – as music channels were not tallied. The company says the Sirius XM listener spends two hours and 45 minutes in the car on a typical day and prefers to listen to Sirius XM 71% of the time with 17% of the time spent listening to AM/FM and 5% with mobile devices. The demographic data indicates: 56% of Sirius XM listeners have a college education, 24% have a household income of $150,000 or more and of those listeners likely to flip channels when a commercial comes on 61% were more likely to stay through a commercial break on satellite compared to listening to commercials on AM or FM. This Sirius XM-commissioned study clearly serves the company’s sales force but also goes a long way to justifying its high-priced talk talent including Howard Stern, Oprah, et al.

John Carlson Returns to KVI, Seattle. The conservative talk host has been paired up with liberal host Ken Schram hosting the midday program, “The Commentators” on Fisher’s sister station KOMO, Seattle. Now, as Fisher re-brands the KVI as “Freedom 570” and brings Bryan Suits back from Los Angeles to host the morning drive program, it also brings Carlson back across the hall to host the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm program. The moves give the station strong, local conservative talk in both drive times.

Doug and Ryan Stewart – “2 Live Stews” – Extend Contracts. The Atlanta-Journal Constitution’s Rodney Ho reports brothers Doug and Ryan Stewart re-upped with flagship station WQXI, Atlanta and their syndicator Sporting News Radio at the New Year and will remain in there for three more years with a two-year option built into the deal. In addition to their success in Atlanta, “Two Live Stews” are heard on about 35 affiliates across the country via Sporting News.

Radio Hosts Michael Smerconish and Tom Joyner Appear on MSNBC “Hardball” Special. Both Smerconish and Joyner will be part of Chris Matthews’ special Martin Luther King, Jr. Day program live from Texas Southern University on Monday night titled, “Obama’s America: 2010 and Beyond.” The program is designed to focus on race issues in the country a year after Barack Obama became the nation’s first African-American president. The program will air from 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight ET.

Boston Financial Advisor and Texas Real Estate Investor Plead Guilty in Radio Show Scams. These are two separate cases. First, Gregg T. Rennie pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Boston to orchestrating a Ponzi scheme that netted $3.2 million in funds from victims. Rennie appeared on WBIX, Boston and other stations hosting his “Your Money” show. He’ll be sentenced April 12 and faces up to 20 years in prison on each of the 13 counts of securities and wire fraud. Rennie’s arrest in early 2009 came just four years after former WBIX owner Brad Bleidt pleaded guilty to similar charges and was sentenced to 11 years in prison and forced to pay $31 million in restitution. In Dallas, Clifford Wayne Robertson pleaded guilty to bank fraud and identity theft charges after being charged with using someone else’s identity to send fraudulent information to a lending institution. Robertson hosted a show on former business talker WFXR, Dallas (now classic country). Robertson faces up to 32 years in jail.

Appeals Court May Kill FCC’s “Fleeting Expletive” Policy. The Supreme Court remanded this case back to the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York and the New York Post reports that it appears the three-judge panel is not buying the government’s explanation of the FCC’s policy and seems inclined to declare it unconstitutional. Obviously at issue are a lot of pending fines (at $325,000 per utterance per broadcast outlet) for high-profile instances such as Bono’s and Cher’s curse words uttered at awards shows but there are many other far less notorious cases. The judges seem skeptical of the fed’s argument that the policy exists to “protect children.”

Savage Moves Up British List of Influential Conservatives. Everyone loves a controversial list and the British newspaper The Telegraph knows that. The paper is out with its multi-installment of the 100 Most Influential Conservatives in America. Talk Radio Network star Michael Savage moves up this year from #63 to #47. By the way, Savage remains banned from the U.K. The resignation of former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, who first put Savage on the list of people not welcome in Britain because their views (and crimes in the cases of others on the list) may cause civil unrest if they were to visit, has not changed Savage’s status. Security Minister Admiral Lord West reiterated in the House of Lords recently that he believes Savage’s entrance into Britain could lead to violence. Also on the Telegraph list are: Newsmax publisher Chris Ruddy at #64, writer Ann Coulter at #74, United Stations Radio Networks talk host Lou Dobbs at #79 and Fox News Channel’s Bill O’Reilly at #85. The top 20 will be announced tomorrow (1/15) and the big question is who will be #1? Las Vegas doesn’t handicap this one but our bet is on Premiere Radio Networks superstar Rush Limbaugh.

Clear Channel Upgrades Boston-Area AM to 50kw. And the company promises to fire up a new talk format on April 1. The station is the old WKOX, Framingham, Massachusetts that’s been upgraded from 10kw to 50kw and moved east toward Boston to the suburb of Newton. Clear Channel plans to swap calls with its WXKS, Everett, Massachusetts. The Boston Herald reports the big question is will CC take Rush Limbaugh off longtime Boston affiliate WRKO (along with Glenn Beck and Sean Hannity) to create the new station? The smart money is on “yes.” It’s extremely unlikely that Clear Channel would spend time and money on developing a new major market AM talk outlet only to let its franchise talk talent remain on a competitor.

WPRO & 99.7 Talk Host Buddy Cianci Considers Run for Congress. The former mayor of Providence who served five years in prison on corruption charges and now holds down the midday slot at Citadel’s simulcast of WPRO and 99.7 tells the Boston Herald he is considering challenging U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy for his seat. Telling the paper he believes Kennedy is vulnerable, the 68-year-old Cianci also goes on to say how comfortable he is with his life. In addition to his radio gig Cianci is also chief political analyst for ABC affiliate WLNE-TV, Providence.

Tony Bruno Adds Local Show at WPEN-AM/FM, Philadelphia. Fox Sports Radio syndicated late-night sports talk host Tony Bruno already airs from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am on Greater Media’s sports simulcast but on January 18 he and Harry Mayes will begin a 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm local sports show on the stations. Bruno is a Philly native who has worked at WFIL AM and FM and the old WCAU – now crosstown WIP. Bruno continues to work from Los Angeles but will travel to Philly for station appearances.

The Motley Fool Returns to Commercial Radio. The financial advice organization led by brothers Tom and David Gardner produced a syndicated talk radio show that aired on commercial radio in the late 1990s and into the early ’00 years before moving to public radio and then ending that operation late in 2006. Now the weekly one-hour show returns to commercial radio with affiliates WTIC, Hartford and KXL, Portland among its first stations.

New York Sports Broadcasting Legend Art Rust, Jr. Dies. Rust passed away on January 12 in New York City at age 82 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was one of the first African-American sports broadcasters and began his career on WWRL, New York in 1954. He also worked at WMCA, WABC and WINS in addition to his television work at WNBC-TV.

Arbitron Aftermath: Company Pays Skarzynski and His Legal Fees. Arbitron issued a public apology through CFO Sean Creamer for former CEO Michael Skarzynski’s fib to a Congressional panel that cost Skarzynski his job (see story below). But now it appears Arbitron will pay Skarzynski some $750,000 as part of his exit package and could pay more than $100,000 in “reasonable” legal fees if they become necessary. Congressman Edolphus Townes (D-NY) promises to look into Skarzynski’s statements and it’s possible Skarzynski could face some legal action. Additionally, Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) is renewing his call for a thorough investigation into the Portable People Meter methodology by the FCC. Currently, the FCC has opened a notice of inquiry to investigate the matter, including whether or not the commission even has jurisdiction over the ratings companies. Also, the value of Arbitron’s stock fell about 9% in trading on Tuesday (1/12).

Missanelli Officially Extends Deal with Greater Media. WPEN-AM/FM, Philadelphia talk host Mike Missanelli and Greater Media confirm what the local media reported last week – Missanelli renews his deal to continue hosting PM drive on the station for an unannounced period of time. Missanelli says, “I’m tremendously excited to continue on with a radio station whose only mission is to serve Philadelphia sports fans. I’m ecstatic to be a part of our historic move of bringing sports talk in Philly to FM and I’m grateful to the fans for making this journey with us. We have a great direction here at 97.5 The Fanatic, and we’re only going to get better.”

Cataldi Re-ups with CBS Radio’s WIP. Across the street at CBS Radio’s WIP, Philadelphia, morning drive host Angelo Cataldi announces he’s signed a new four-year deal to remain with WIP and told his audience that in this economy he’s delighted he was able to renew his contract and not have to take a pay cut. Cataldi had been working without a contract since late November and he explained the contract negotiations on his blog noting that both sides were at loggerheads prior to Thanksgiving and he truly believed they would not come to terms. Compensation was the major sticking point considering the dire state of the industry but the two sides were able to finally make a deal.

Salem’s Hewitt on Top of Proposition 8 Case. Salem Radio Network talk show host Hugh Hewitt is dedicating a part of his daily talk show to reporting from San Francisco where California’s Proposition 8 – which mandates marriage can only be between one man and one woman – is being challenged in the U.S. District Court for Northern California in the case Perry v. Schwarzenegger. The Alliance Defense Fund’s Jordan Lorence fills Hewitt’s listeners in every afternoon. Salem’s Tom Tradup tells TALKERS magazine, “In America, we should respect and uphold the right of a free people to make social policy choices through the democratic process. If a handful of activists can void a constitutional amendment adopted by seven million Californians, we have forfeited the very core of the American democratic system – especially in this case, where the people of California affirmed something that predates America itself. So Hugh Hewitt is devoting part of his nationally syndicated program to updating listeners on the daily courtroom developments in Perry vs. Schwarzenegger.”

Wall Street Journal Radio Network Offers Widget. Designed for the websites of affiliates, the Flash widget allows users to check out breaking audio news reports from WSJRN plus get business news from WSJ.com and market reports from the Dow Jones indices. WSJRN executive director Nancy Abramson says, “Great radio stations satisfy listeners’ appetites for news and information online and on air. Providing information across media platforms from America’s number one business news brand is an important addition to that menu.”

WRKO Morning Host Loses Bid to Regain Law License. Tom Finneran, co-host along with Todd Feinburg, of WRKO, Boston’s “Finneran’s Forum” morning drive show, was not successful in regaining his license to practice law from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court which upheld the Board of Bar Overseers ruling. Finneran pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice charges in connection with a redistricting case in the state. Finneran – former Massachusetts House Speaker — argued he was not acting as an attorney when he lied under oath but the Court did not agree. He can reapply in 2015.

Arbitron CEO Michael Skarzynski Resigns After Violating Company Policy. Arbitron CFO Sean Creamer says Skarzynski testified on December 2 before a House Government Oversight Committee hearing that he personally took part in an in-home training visit to a PPM household. Although that training visit did take place, Skarzynski was not there and that misrepresentation was enough to force him to resign. Congressman Edolphus Townes (D-NY), chairman of the committee has already stated, “As chairman, I am committed to protecting the integrity of the committee’s proceedings and I will review this matter to determine whether the committee was intentionally misled and whether further action is warranted.” The hearing Townes refers to was titled “Will Arbitron’s Personal People Meter Silence Minority-Owned Radio Stations?” Taking over for Skarzynski is Arbitron board member William T. Kerr who is named president and CEO. Arbitron Chairman of the Board Phillip Guarascio tells TALKERS, “Bill’s experience as a chief executive officer and chairman of a large public media company coupled with his board memberships make him uniquely qualified to lead Arbitron. Additionally, Bill’s service as a member of Arbitron’s board of directors should provide a fast and effective transition into his new role.” Skarzynski’s fib may not be something people ordinarily think of as a firing offense but Arbitron is facing a ton of scrutiny by government and the radio industry and can not afford to have the slightest appearance of dishonesty regarding the controversial Portable People Meter.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Market Receives Media Ratings Council Accreditation for Arbitron’s PPM. Arbitron announces that the Media Ratings Council has added only Minneapolis-St. Paul to Houston and Riverside, California – the three markets achieving MRC accreditation for the Portable People Meter. The MRC has yet to take any action regarding San Francisco and San Jose and they stay unaccredited for now. The MRC is denying accreditation to the following markets: Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, San Diego, Seattle, Tampa-St. Petersburg, and Washington, DC. In a release, Arbitron states, “The company is encouraged by the accreditation of Minneapolis-St. Paul, which further validates our Radio First methodology. The company understands the MRC’s need to close out old audits. Arbitron believes that across all of its PPM markets it has demonstrated significant progress and ongoing commitment to improvement requested by the MRC.”

KFI’s Bill Handel to Address New Media Seminar 2010. The directors of New Media Seminar 2010 have announced the addition of superstar talk show host Bill Handel to the presentation line up as a key solo speaker at the forthcoming event in New York City March 19-20. According to TALKERS magazine research, Handel’s morning show (5:00 am to 9:00 am PT) on Clear Channel’s KFI, Los Angeles is the most-listened-to local show in American talk radio. He also hosts a daily afternoon news/talk program on the West Coast powerhouse (12:00 noon to 2:00 pm) and a weekend show titled “Handel on the Law” which taps into his legal expertise. Both the afternoon and weekend programs are nationally syndicated by Premiere Radio Networks. Handel’s address will focus on two basic areas: 1) The state and viability of local talk radio in America today; and 2) A specific look at what’s happening in the exciting Los Angeles market. According to NMS director Michael Harrison, “This year’s conference will pay attention to both the local and national aspects of talk radio. Who better than one of the greatest local hosts in modern history who also has a national presence to spearhead the current hot industry discussion about the meaning of live and local talk broadcasting. Handel brings a lot to the table for this year’s New Media Seminar.” For registration, hotel and sponsorship information about New Media Seminar 2010 call Barbara Kurland at 413-739-8255. The New Media Seminar is the talk media industry’s longest running and largest national convention. More detailed agenda information and scheduling to be available here at the TALKERS website in the coming days.

Sarah Palin Joins Fox News Channel. Former Republican Vice-Presidential candidate and former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has found a media home at Fox News Channel. Palin has signed a multi-year deal as a contributor. She’s expected to appear on various FNC programs and although she won’t have her own show per se, she will host special programming that will air on the channel from time to time. No financial details were announced and Palin issued the following statement to the press: “I am thrilled to be joining the great talent and management team at Fox News. It’s wonderful to be part of a place that so values fair and balanced news.”

Bryan Suits Takes Over AM Drive at KVI. It turns out that the gig Suits left the evening show at KFI, Los Angeles for is the morning show at Fisher’s KVI, Seattle – the station where he once held down the PM drive show. Morning drive at KVI had been filled by TRN’s Laura Ingraham since the station cut ties with longtime KVI talk personality Kirby Wilbur on November 12, 2009. Now, KVI returns to a live and local morning show. Bryan Suits is currently a lieutenant in the Army National Guard who is also a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, Bosnia and the Iraq War in which he was awarded the Purple Heart in 2005.

Lundy Assumes PD Role at KKFN-FM, Denver. Programmer Nate Lundy is named PD at Lincoln Financial Media’s sports talk KKFN-FM, Denver. Lundy most recently served as director of production for video game maker EA Sports. He also co-founded the imaging firm Roadkill Creative. Lundy has programmed WOAI, San Antonio; WSCC, Charleston, South Carolina; and WREC, Memphis. Programmer Tim Spence, who had been KKFN-FM PD, focuses on sister sports talker KEPN.

Cannon Exits WPGB-FM, Pittsburgh. Evening sports talk host Ellis Cannon is out at Clear Channel’s WPGB-FM, Pittsburgh in a budget-related move, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Bob Smizik. Cannon hosted the only sports show on the station from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and was a lead-in to Pirates baseball play-by-play. He also hosted pre- and post-game broadcasts for Pittsburgh Steelers games. WPGB-FM replaces Cannon with TRN’s Michael Savage.

Emmis Announces Q3 Numbers: Revenue Down 18%. In a third quarter filing with the SEC, Emmis notes that although its Q3 revenues were down 18% compared to the same period in 2008, the company did post a profit of $1.7 million compared to the loss of $125 million it absorbed in the third quarter of 2008. Not surprisingly, the report indicated the generally bad shape of the advertising business due to the recession was mostly to blame. CEO Jeff Smulyan issued a positive memo to employees stating that things are starting to move in the right direction and he’s optimistic as the company moves through its fourth quarter which ends next month.

Ed Schultz Won’t Seek North Dakota Senate Seat. After being surprised and honored by a call from the head of the North Dakota Democratic Party last week to gauge Schultz’s interest in running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Byron Dorgan this year, MSNBC and Dial Global talk star Ed Schultz tells fellow MSNBC host Joe Scarborough he’s staying with his media career and won’t seek office. Schultz backed off the idea of running almost immediately and it probably had nothing to do with the Republican National Committee’s notifying MSNBC that broadcasting content with Schultz contemplating the move could be considered an in-kind contribution to his campaign should he decide to run.

KFWB Drops Hedgecock, Goes with PM News Block. Just a couple of months into its life as a news/talk station, CBS Radio’s former all-newser KFWB, Los Angeles cancels Radio America’s Roger Hedgecock show and goes with a three hour news block from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm co-anchored by Maggie McKay and Michael Shappee. In the process, the station is airing an extra hour of Dr. Laura Schlessinger from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and dubbing it “Dr. Laura Rewind” as it repeats the first hour of the show.

KFI Names Tim Conway, Jr. Evening Show Host. Bryan Suits had been hosting the evening show at KFI, Los Angeles – solo recently but alongside Kennedy before that – but now he heads back to his native Seattle where he has an unannounced project awaiting him. That results in weekender and former crosstown KLSX-FM talent Tim Conway, Jr. taking over the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm program at Clear Channel’s Los Angeles news/talk powerhouse.

Ron Hartenbaum Elected President of Board of Directors at T.J. Martell Foundation. WYD Media Management president Ron Hartenbaum is elected president of the board of directors of the foundation that raises funds for cancer and AIDS research. Hartenbaum succeeds legendary music executive Frances Preston who served for the past 16 years in that position. The T.J. Martell Foundation was founded by music industry exec Tony Martell in 1975 in memory of his son T.J. who died of leukemia. Since then the foundation has raised in excess of $240 million for research for the innovative initial and ongoing research for improved treatments and cures for leukemia, cancer and AIDS. Hartenbaum says, “This disease is our generation’s healthcare battle, so even in tough economic times we need to generate research funding if we are to prevail.”

Regent Communications Is Delisted. Nasdaq is taking Regent’s stock off the board effective this morning (1/8). Regent was notified by Nasdaq that two factors — the company’s stock price of less than $1 and the total value of its common stock falling to less than the $15 million threshold for 30 consecutive business days – put the delisting into effect.

Thompson Exits “Rush Radio” in Raleigh. Just weeks after being named the morning drive host at Clear Channel’s new FM talk station WRDU-FM, Raleigh — Rush Radio 106.1, Bo Thompson resigns and returns to his previous position at Fox TV in Charlotte. Thompson says, “It was the right job on paper, but once I got there it did not feel right for me or my family. I believe that you must trust your instincts in life and so I have returned to Charlotte.” References to the morning show have been removed from WRDU-FM’s website and there’s no word on the station’s plans for morning drive at this time.

CBS Radio Names Saunders Washington, DC OM. Michael Saunders is named operations manager for CBS Radio’s Washington, DC cluster that includes sports WJFK-FM and talk WHFS. Saunders, the bulk of whose hands-on programming experience is in music radio, will program rhythmic CHR WPGC-FM and will work closely with the PDs of the cluster’s stations including WJFK-FM’s Chris Kinard and WHFS’ Greg Edgar. Saunders says, “It’s an honor to program a great heritage station like WPGC and work with CBS Radio’s cluster of stations in DC. WJFK is already top of mind for DC-area sports fans, 94. 7 Fresh is among the fastest growing female-oriented stations in the market, and with WLZL, one of America’s greatest Spanish-language stations, we have much to look forward to in 2010.”

Star & Buc Wild Host Evening Program on Shovio.com. The entertainment station co-founded by “Radio Chick” Leslie Gold that uses two-way video broadcasting technology signs the former New York City hip hop morning show to do a one-hour evening show from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm. As noted in a statement from Shovio.com, “Star & Buc Wild are known to millions from working as top-rated hosts of such major urban radio outlets as Hot 96, Power 105.1 and Pulse 87.7 in New York and from radio syndication. Star & Buc Wild hosted the #1 rated urban morning show in NYC and made radio history by beating Howard Stern in the coveted 18-34 demographic. In addition, New Jersey native Star (Troi Torain) has written for The Source magazine and Hip-Hop Weekly, and hosted MTV’s Beat Suite.” Former cast member “White Trash Helene” is expected to be part of the program. Gold says more “name” hosts will be joining Shovio.com soon in addition to current hosts Sid Rosenberg, Karith Foster, Goumba Johnny and, of course, the Radio Chick herself.

Stephanie Miller Gives Back to Affiliates. Dial Global announces that talk host Stephanie Miller is giving two minutes of local inventory back to affiliates on the weekend edition of her radio talk show. “Stephanie Miller starts the New Year with new clocks and the gift of inventory! Stephanie Miller’s team is constantly looking at ways to answer affiliates’ needs and in that light tuned up both her weekday and weekend clocks to meet station requests. In the process Steph realized she could give back 2 minutes to her affiliates within her weekend show. In these tough economic times, it just made sense to give stations an opportunity to further monetize their weekends with extra inventory.”

Slacker Adds ABC News to Its Lineup. Internet radio service Slacker works out a deal with ABC News to add such content as newscasts and program segments from ABC programs including “Nightline” and “Good Morning America.” Users can also program Slacker to include hourly newscasts from ABC News on any music channel they may be listening to. Slacker senior vice president of marketing Jonathan Sasse says, “Many listeners have been passionate about getting current news from Slacker Radio, so we are delighted to partner with one of the most respected names in news to provide this ground-breaking service integration.”

Kelly McKay Joins WLNK-FM, Charlotte. McKay’s jocked at WFLZ-FM, Tampa; WZPL-FM, Indianapolis and WBNS-FM, Columbus and now she joins the talk-intensive lineup at Greater Media’s hot AC WLNK-FM, Charlotte. She’s hosting the midday show following Bob & Sheri.

TRN’s Jerry Doyle Publishes New Book. Talk Radio Network syndicated host Jerry Doyle announces he’s just published his new book, Have You Seen My Country Lately: America’s Wake-Up Call (Threshold Editions 2009). As the title implies, the book is Doyle’s take on the state of America from his perspective and, according to the publisher is “his deeply personal call for the country to truly unite and recognize that freedom and liberty require constant vigilance and resistance to the arbitrary exercise of government power.”

Jack Rice Named Recipient of 2010 Freedom of Speech Award. Air America Media radio talk show host and new media journalist Jack Rice has been named the recipient of the 2010 TALKERS magazine Freedom of Speech Award. In making the announcement, TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison states, “The editorial board has made a solid choice in Jack Rice who reflects the highest values of the First Amendment through his application of a principled combination of technique, spirit and sweat. The stunning picture on the cover of our forthcoming issue says it all: a multi-media, frozen talk show host hanging his video camera out the window of a Chinook helicopter flying over the war in Southern Afghanistan. Jack represents a rare breed of modern talker who stops at nothing to bring his radio listeners and website viewers right into the real live action spots of the world from Iraq to Afghanistan and offer them a truly independent political perspective that has worked effectively on both liberal and conservative news/talk stations. Very few talk show hosts have that ability in this era of tightly formatted political stationality and we think it is worth spotlighting.” Harrison is referring to the fact that since leaving his midday position at WCCO, Minneapolis less than two years ago, Rice has further developed an independent style of political commentary that has been used effectively by conservative stations such as KOGO in San Diego where he was not afraid to criticize George W. Bush and a liberal network such as Air America where he has now been critical of Barak Obama. As an award-winning journalist and correspondent, Jack Rice has chased stories around the world. He is a former CIA special agent and field operations officer, as well as a former prosecuting attorney and columnist, who covers policy, politics, national and international affairs on his daily 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET program based out of Washington, DC via Air America Media and on his highly acclaimed online media station, JackRice.org. He is also a frequent contributor to NBC Nightly News, MSNBC, Fox News Channel and other media outlets around the country. In an ever-shrinking and dangerous world, a passive look isn’t always enough. Jack represents the new generation that uses television, audio, podcasts, blogs, print and video, and takes his audience to where the news is happening and what it means. He is stopped by neither danger nor corporate cutbacks — often financing his media adventures out of his own pocket and sharing them with the rest of the industry. Jack Rice will be presented the 2010 Freedom of Speech Award at the forthcoming New Media Seminar March 19-20 in New York City.

Laurie Cantillo Named TALKERS Magazine “Woman of the Year.” WABC, New York program director Laurie Cantillo has been named by the TALKERS magazine editorial board as the 2010 recipient of the Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions by a Woman to Talk Radio. She will be presented the award at a special ceremony at the forthcoming New Media Seminar in New York City by last year’s honoree, Grace Blazer, PD of WTKK-FM, Boston. In being named recipient of this honor, Ms. Cantillo joins a luminous roster of highly accomplished women who have served admirably in various segments of the talk radio industry from the ranks of talent, management and business including TRN talk show host Laura Ingraham; WWRL, New York president and general manager Adriane Gaines; syndicated computer guru Kim Komando; noted attorney and former radio talk show host Gloria Allred; former Comrex Corp, president, Lynn Distler; syndicated talker Randi Rhodes; Talk Radio News Service founder and bureau chief Ellen Ratner, TV talk pioneer and radio personality Lisa Evers and others going back to the early nineties when it was first given posthumously to independent talk syndication trailblazer Judy Jarvis for whom it is named. Prior to joining WABC as PD, Laurie Cantillo served as program director of Oprah & Friends Radio as well as PD of KFYI/XTRA, Phoenix and KTAR, Phoenix.

Sean Hannity to be Honored with 2010 Humanitarian Award at New Media Seminar. The TALKERS magazine editorial board has announced the selection of Premiere Radio Networks/Fox News Channel talk show host Sean Hannity as the 2010 recipient of the Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Talk Radio Humanitarian of the Year in honor of his work promoting the Freedom Concert series each year since 2003. The annual award, which includes a $4000 donation to the recipient’s cause, is designed to credit a radio broadcaster for outstanding community service and is presented at the New Media Seminar. Since 2003, over $10 million has been raised for the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund through the Freedom Concerts and generous donations from the Sean Hannity Show and its listeners. The Scholarship Fund is designated for the education of children of U.S. service members who have been killed or 100% permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident. All net proceeds from ticket sales (after musical talent, production, promotion and venue expenses) are donated to the Scholarship Fund, aiding greatly in this effort to assist hundreds of families who have lost their loved ones while they were protecting and defending our nation and our freedoms. 2010 concerts have already been scheduled with a lineup of talent featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels and Michael W. Smith. Dates include Cincinnati, Atlanta, Orlando, Tulsa, Dallas, Las Vegas, San Diego and more. Upon being informed of his selection, Hannity tells TALKERS magazine, “I am beyond honored. Words cannot express my appreciation.” The previous recipients of this award are Joe Madison, Dr. Laura Schlessinger and Scott Hennen. Sean Hannity will also be presenting what has become a New Media Seminar tradition, the Sean Hannity After Dark Ice Cream Party which will take place on the Friday evening of the two day event (Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20) in New York City.

Lou Dobbs to Deliver “Annual State of the First Amendment Address” at New Media Seminar 2010. United Stations Radio Networks talk show host and former CNN anchor Lou Dobbs has been named by the TALKERS magazine editorial board to deliver one of the key addresses at the forthcoming New Media Seminar — the annual “State of the First Amendment” speech which customarily opens the Freedom of Speech Award Ceremony. In accepting the assignment, Dobbs continues a tradition started in the early days of the historic talk media industry convention by the outstanding wordsmith Gene Burns of KGO, San Francisco, and carried on through the years by an array of figures representing the spectrum of ideologies inherent to the modern talk radio scene. These include Alan Colmes, Steve Forbes, Sean Hannity, Michael Harrison, Brian Jennings, G. Gordon Liddy, Michael Medved and George Takei, among others. Last year, the speech was delivered by Roger Hedgecock. According to TALKERS magazine managing editor Kevin Casey, “We are very pleased to have Mr. Dobbs deliver this extremely important address that sets the tone for our celebration of the one thing we all agree is the foundation of our industry and nation — the right of the individual to express opinions without censorship by the government. If there is any single individual in talk media today who fully understands and applies this principle on a daily basis, it is Lou Dobbs.” The New Media Seminar will take place in New York on Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20. Lou Dobbs’ address is scheduled for Saturday at 2:00 pm.