E. Curtis Johnson to Retire from KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno
Forty-nine-year radio pro E. Curtis Johnson is retiring from Cumulus Media’s KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno “News Talk 580 and 105.9” where he’s been serving as co-host of the afternoon drive show alongside Philip Teresi since March 2023. His final show is tomorrow (5/30). Johnson says, “I was truly excited to get the gig here at
KMJ a little over two years ago. I’ve enjoyed working with Philip and the entire staff has welcomed me as one of their own. I thought I’d be here longer, but some unexpected health issues made the decision to retire the right choice for me. It was a hard decision to make, but I’m comfortable that I’ve made the right call for my quality of life. I will miss this team.” KMJ program director Blake Taylor comments, “It was great working with a true professional who brought great insights and a unique skill set to our audience. We’re going to miss E. I trust he’s going to take full advantage of the time off. He deserves it!”
Documentary was produced, directed, and narrated by Jeff Aiello. KMJ program director Blake Taylor also served as a producer for the film. Winners will be announced at the 53rd Northern California Emmy Awards Gala on June 15, 2024, at the San Francisco Hilton. Cumulus Fresno regional VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “It is a remarkably humbling experience to be a part of this documentary celebrating KMJ’s 100 years of serving the community. I am grateful to have been with this heritage brand since the late 80s. The entire KMJ team is excited to share our story through this documentary – and we’re thrilled that the film has been nominated for an Emmy!” Blake Taylor adds, “When KMJ went on the air, people didn’t have radios. That is one of the great lines from the film that really speaks to me. The longevity, the success, and the impact of KMJ for over a century is really remarkable. To be a small part of that is truly meaningful.”
personalities have had on Fresno and the greater Central Valley of California over the past century. It debuted last night (3/30). KMJ hit the airwaves with just 50 watts of power on March 23, 1922. Eventually, with the threat of World War II looming, the FCC allowed KMJ to boost its power to a whopping 50,000 watts. “KMJ: 100 Years in the Valley” was written and directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Jeff Aiello. KMJ program director Blake Taylor served as a producer.