Tag: Hurricane Ian

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, October 21, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Inflation Inflammation,” looks back at this past week of 10/17-10/21. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; Jack Heath, talk show host, the Pulse of NH; Dom Giordano, talk show host, WPHT, Philadelphia; Jerry Reynolds, talk show host, CarPro Radio Network/WBAP, Dallas; and Matthew B. Harrison, Esq., associate publisher, TALKERS.  The show airs weekends (Friday evenings to Sunday nights) on 100-plus broadcast signals and networks across the U.S. and U.K as well as having developed a significant international following as a podcast. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here.

Wisconsin Talk Hosts Avoid Prosecution for Entering Locked State House. According to coverage from Madison.com, charges against Michael Crute (left) and Dominic Salvia (right) – hosts of the progressive talk program, “The Devil’s Advocates Radio Show,” for entering the Wisconsin Capitol illegally on December 22 of 2020 are being dropped. Crute and Salvia’s program is heard in Milwaukee on Good Karma Brands’ WAUK-AM/W266DR, on WTTN-AM/W224EG in Madison and other Wisconsin signals. The duo, along with producer Bryan Kelly, accessed the locked Capitol during the pandemic lockdown to “put up a Christmas tree that included ornaments lampooning Republican lawmakers after Republican state Reps. Paul Tittl and Shae Sortwell and others put up their own tree in the Capitol rotunda and held other activities without a permit because Democratic Gov. Tony Evers had decided not to put up a tree during the pandemic.” Crute, Salvia and Kelly’s lawyer told the program’s listeners that his defensive strategy “was going to be the defense of selective prosecution” on the part of the district attorney. In the end it didn’t matter because ultimately the prosecution “did not feel at this time in the interest of justice jury trials in these matters was warranted.”

Salem Announces Midterm Election Coverage. The company says that its coverage of the November midterm elections will begin on Tuesday (11/8) at 7:00 pm ET and run through 2:00 am the next morning. Salem Media Group says that the Salem Radio Network will join forces with the new Salem News Channel platform to provide marathon “DECISION 22” Midterm Election coverage focusing on the battle over which political party will gain control of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives for the next two years. “DECISION 22” will also track election results in hotly contested races for governor from coast-to-coast. SRN VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup states, “This promises to be quite very possibly the most historic Midterm election and it will offer our audiences the first ever live broadcast partnership between our ground-breaking Salem News Channel and the Salem Radio Network nationwide.” For the first five hours starting at 7:00 pm ET, SNC’s Andrew Wilkow and SRN’s nationally syndicated talk hosts Hugh Hewitt and Dr. Sebastian Gorka will anchor the live coverage that will include perspective and analysis from invited guests including SRN hosts Mike Gallagher and Brandon Tatum live from midterm “watch parties.” Correspondents updating key races will include Chris Stigall of “AM990 The Answer” in Philadelphia covering the pivotal Pennsylvania U.S. Senate contest. SRN News White House correspondent Greg Clugston will provide breaking news throughout the evening from the Decision Desk in the Washington bureau. At 12:00 midnight ET coverage switches to the Los Angeles studios of Salem’s “870AM The ANSWER” for continuing coverage anchored by Jennifer Horn (host of The Morning Answer of KRLA and KTIE) and KRLA news anchor Larry Marino.

Mike Miller Named VP of Programming for iHeartMedia Central PA. Radio programming pro Mike Miller is named vice president of programming for iHeartMedia’s Central PA stations that include news/talk WHP-AM and sports talk WTKT-AM “FOX Sports 1460” in Harrisburg, as well as five music brands. iHeartMedia national programming group EVP Jeff Hurley comments, “Mike brings an unparalleled understanding of our business and operations. His track record of innovation speaks for itself. He has created and grown unique brands from the ground up for over 20 years in Central PA. We’re excited to welcome Mike back to our programming team, where he got his first start on ‘FM97’ in Lancaster at age 16.”

Broadcasters Foundation of America Lauded for Hurricane Assistance. After hurricanes swept through Puerto Rico and Southwest Florida, those working in the broadcasting business in the those areas have had to deal with personal and family issues in addition to having to keep up their  professional duties to keep the public informed and apprised of everything that is happening in clean-up efforts. At best, it has been difficult for those in the broadcast community to continue working while also dealing with damage to their property or automobiles. At worst, they may be dealing with something such as injury to a family member or pet. While there is certainly no way to replace something as precious as life, the Broadcasters Foundation of America has stepped in to provide some financial security to those colleagues who are suffering from these natural disasters. Dozens of employees from various radio and television companies in those areas have reached out for help and the BFOA has either already delivered or is in the process of providing financial support. Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley says, “Hurricane Ian was one of the worst natural disasters to hit Southwest Florida in over a century. A near category 5 hurricane, the storm devastated communities that Beasley serves. Our employees worked around the clock, serving as a lifeline to listeners when radio was the only source of communication available to them with the outside world. Throughout the storm, Tim McCarthy and the Broadcasters Foundation of America team were front and center, checking in and offering assistance to our employees who were directly impacted by the hurricane. It’s that type of true commitment and dedication to broadcasters on the front lines every day that makes the BFOA so incredibly important and vital as they take care of those who selflessly take care of others every day. That is what the Broadcasters Foundation of America is all about!”

TALKERS News Notes. A new deal between SiriusXM and New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hollis gives SXM the exclusive rights to distribute and sell advertising for “The Rachel Hollis Podcast.” Additionally, the agreement calls for Stitcher to distribute the show across all podcast platforms. Hollis says, “Teaming up with SiriusXM allows us to further elevate the show, bringing it into an exciting new chapter. I believe we learn the most by listening to other people’s stories and sharing in conversation. My hope is to keep seeking out wisdom from our guests that spark curiosity and openness with an ever-evolving audience.”…..Salem Media Group is presenting at the Annual LD Micro Main Event XV investor conference at 5:00 pm ET on October 26. The presentation will be available on the investor relations portion of Salem’s website prior to the company’s presentation…..Dr. Daliah Wachs’ GCN-syndicated talk radio program adds a new affiliate as Fairview Broadcasting’s news/talk KWBG-AM, Boone, Iowa adds the show to its program schedule in the 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm daypart.

Politics and the Midterm Elections Top News/Talk Story for Week of October 17-21. The politics and the debates leading up to the November midterm elections combined as the most-talked-about-stories on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Takers TenTM. At #2 this week was the economy – including inflation, the up-and-down financial markets, and fears of a recession – followed by the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine tied with other foreign affairs stories at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, October 3, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Monday Memo: Yes, You Need More Cume. “It’s a never-ending problem” because budgets are tight, and with new-tech competitors chipping-away at AM/FM Time Spent Listening. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke outlines three specific goals for on-air promotion; but cautions that “the only people who hear it are already listening.” Read it here.

 

Pending Business: The Aftermath of Ian. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa has been affected by natural disasters numerous times during his career – including the long list of hurricanes that have impacted Florida in recent decades. In today’s column, he offers five takeaways for radio sellers working in markets affected by Ian, as well as those who may face a similar situation in the future. Read it here.

 

Morning Host Chris Stigall Re-Ups with Salem’s ‘The Answer’ in Philly. WNTP-AM, Philadelphia “AM 990 The Answer” morning host Chris Stigall signs a multi-year extension to continue with the Salem Media Group news/talk station. The host of “Philadelphia’s Morning Answer with Chris Stigall” says, “It’s been the highlight of my career to call Philadelphia morning radio my professional home for 12 years now. It’s so gratifying to work with principled, faith-first broadcast partners in Salem Media Group who genuinely respect their audience, their clients, and their broadcasters. Thank you to Salem Media, our sponsors and the smartest audience in all of radio for allowing me the privilege to continue hosting your morning show for years to come. All glory and honor to God!” Salem Philadelphia general manager Lorenzo Caldara adds, “Since the day Chris began with Philadelphia’s ‘AM 990 The Answer,’ he has engaged Philadelphians in intelligent and relevant conversation that has served to entertain and stimulate much thought in the minds of our audience. He has secured such an attentive audience that can’t wait to listen and call in to him everyday Monday through Friday.”

‘Smart Money Happy Hour’ Podcast Debuts at #1. The latest podcast from the Ramsey Network, “Smart Money Happy Hour,” debuted last week at #1 in Apple Business, #1 in Spotify Business and #19 in all Apple podcasts. Ramsey Network says the “Smart Money Happy Hour” is a mix of solid advice and snark from two friends who also happen to be money experts. Co-host Rachel Cruze says, “People will talk about almost anything these days, except money. These conversations shouldn’t be awkward or boring, but rather give listeners a sense of relief that they aren’t alone in their money journey – whatever circumstance or stage of life they’re in.” Co-host George Kamel adds, “The show is a good balance of real-life humor mixed in with money advice listeners can relate to. We’re willing to go there, have those conversations, and be that friend for you.” “Smart Money Happy Hour” topics include: Is Convenience Worth Being Broke? The TV Network That Brainwashed Us All; How to Leave a Royal Legacy for Your Family; and Can the Middle Class Still Afford to Go to Disney?

SRN’s Mike Gallagher Raises Funds for Hurricane Ian Relief. Pictured above in front of what’s left of a Venice, Florida car dealer’s lot is Salem Radio Network personality Mike Gallagher broadcasting live. In the wake of Hurricane Ian’s devastation in Florida and the Carolinas, Gallagher is broadcasting from disaster sites today (10/3) and is raising funds to help people impacted by the huge storm. Gallagher is partnering with Christian non-profit relief organization Food for the Poor to rush hurricane emergency kits and hurricane flood relief kits to impacted areas. Gallagher says, “This is what radio does best: opening the hearts and wallets of listeners to help fellow Americans they will likely never meet.”

TALKERS News Notes. A new deal between FOX Sports Radio and LaVar Arrington’s Up On Game Presents and Brinx.TV provides for distribution of programming across both platforms. The sports platform Brinx.TV is operated by John Brenkus – host of “Sports Science.” As part of the agreement, “The NIL House” will be the first joint property to be distributed by the Up On Game Presents podcast feed (available on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard) and Brinx.TV. The venture launches today (10/3) at 3:00 pm ET. Arrington says, “We are thrilled to be partnering with a pioneer like John Brenkus and Brinx.TV. This relationship will dramatically expedite our slate of programming and positively impact the sports entertainment industry.”…..Cumulus Media’s news/talk KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno recently teamed with local agriculture company Gar Bennett to raise money for the Central California Food Bank for the 2022 Feeding Families Fund Drive. Gar Bennett Inc. matched every donation with 50 cents on the dollar as the effort raised $656,000 to fight hunger in the Central Valley. Cumulus Media Fresno VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “I’m overwhelmed by the support of our community. We can always count on the generosity of our KMJ listeners! A special thanks to Karen and Greg Musson of Gar Bennett, Farm Credit and Amazon for their massive contributions and to our talented on-air team for their hard work on this important effort.”

Russia-Ukraine War, Hurricane Ian Aftermath, Economy/Financial Markets, Mar-a-Lago Documents Case, Brazilian Elections, and Indonesia Soccer Riot Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The move by Vladimir Putin to attempt to annex parts of Ukraine as he calls up more troops in Russia’s war against its neighbor; the aftermath of Hurricane Ian’s destruction of the Fort Myers-Naples region; inflation and the bear market that’s pushed the world’s financial markets to lows not seen since 2009; the battle between former President Donald Trump’s lawyers and the Department of Justice over the Mar-a-Lago records case; conservative Brazil president Jair Bolsonaro forces runoff election with opponent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva; and the soccer riot in Indonesia that left 125 dead were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Sales

Pending Business: The Aftermath of Ian

By Editor | by Editor

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

 

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — It’s about a three-hour drive, a little less than 200 miles from my home base, to Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

As we experienced strong winds and heavy downpours, Hurricane Ian destroyed most of Fort Myers Beach as well as other communities on Florida’s west coast. Ian tore a devastating path that continued through Orlando and into the Carolinas. Damage estimates are already over $60 billion, the death toll in Florida at 48 and still climbing. Ian is the worst storm in Florida history.

(more…)

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Salem Tampa Bay Prepares for Hurricane Ian. Pictured above is Salem Media Group Tampa chief engineer Robert Hailey (right) leading his engineering team installing plywood panels over doors and windows at the company’s Tampa radio stations – the home base for the Salem Radio Network nationally syndicated “Mike Gallagher Show” – as they prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Ian.

Deni Lang Named Promotions and Marketing Director for SummitMedia Richmond. Radio pro Denise “Deni” Lang is named promotions and marketing director for SummitMedia LLC’s Richmond station group that includes sports talk WURV-HD2 “ESPN Richmond” and four music brands. Summit VP of events and promotions Justin Ragland says. “We are fortunate that Deni is both a radio pro and has a proven track record of success in this market. Her relationships in Richmond run deep and her experience promises to bring an exciting future of innovative radio promotions for our team.” Lang joins SummitMedia from Audacy’s crosstown CHR WRVQ-FM where she served as brand manager. She says, “I’m excited to join SummitMedia and work with an incredible group of people that genuinely loves radio and has a passion to work hard. I plan to build upon the achievements of this team and help drive ratings and revenue for this amazing cluster.”

Paul Gallant Goes Solo on KFNC-FM, Houston. Houston sports talk personality Paul Gallant is now hosting the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon show on Gow Media’s KFNC-FM/K223CW “ESPN 97.5 & 92.5.” He’d been co-hosting the program with Vanessa Richardson since February of this year, but she exits KFNC to focus on her role with regional network AT&T SportsNet, where she’s been hosting pre- and post-game shows for Houston Astros broadcasts. KFNC general manger Todd Farquharson says, “We’re excited to have Paul host his own show. He’s super creative, energetic, and likeable. He’ll get the audience involved and have fun.” Gallant comments, “You know what I’ve always loved about sports/talk radio? That it’s interactive. Whether through a phone call, text message, tweet or on Twitch, it’s the best place for sports fans to come together and celebrate…or vent. And that’s what ‘The Paul Gallant Show’ is going to be… Houston’s platform to talk about its teams. THE most interactive sports talk show in Houston.”

Linsey Davis Anchoring ABC News Radio Newscast. Yesterday afternoon, “ABC News Live Prime” and “World News Tonight – Sunday” anchor Linsey Davis began delivering the top stories on ABC News Radio’s national 5:00 pm ET newscast. She’ll continue to anchor the newscast Mondays through Thursdays each week. The live newscast is available to affiliates across the ABC News Radio network and is distributed as a podcast updated hourly on all major podcast platforms. Davis anchors “ABC News Live Prime with Linsey Davis,” which is ABC News Live’s first-ever streaming evening newscast, and “World News Tonight – Sunday.” She also serves as a correspondent filing reports for “World News Tonight with David Muir,” “Good Morning America,” “20/20” and “Nightline.” ABC Audio VP Liz Alesse says, “Linsey is the triple threat of ABC News. She anchors the evening news on broadcast TV, ABC’s live streaming channel and now on radio. It’s a testament to her dedication to reaching audiences across the country on all platforms.”

Suspect in Death of WWJ, Detroit Anchor Jim Matthews Arraigned. According to a report by WJBK-TV, Detroit “FOX2 News,” the suspect in the murder of WWJ-AM, Detroit overnight news anchor Jim Matthews was arraigned on one count of first-degree homicide, homicide felony murder, two counts of intent to murder, and three counts of unlawful imprisonment. Although described as someone who was “welcomed in as a guest in the home” of Matthews, 55-year-old Arthur Williamson has a lengthy criminal record, including convictions for assaulting police, assault with intent to commit murder, and kidnapping. He was previously released from prison in 2018. In addition to Matthews’ death, a 10-year-old child is still in critical condition due to blunt force trauma and Matthews’ girlfriend Nichole Guertin is in stable condition after suffering stab wounds. The couple’s five-year-old daughter was unharmed. Authorities say they are “still piecing together the timeline,” and say there is “limited clarity” because the victims are still hospitalized.

WTOP and PodcastOne Announce Season 3 of ‘American Nightmare Series.’ Washington, DC all-news outlet WTOP-FM and PodcastOne announce the return of their award-winning podcast, “American Nightmare Series.” This season, the program is titled, “American Nightmare Series: Unknown Subject” as it focuses on a man who terrorized women across the D.C. area for nine years. It started with breaking into homes and raping his victims, then ended with the killing of a brilliant scientist near the gates of Georgetown University in 1998. Before the FBI would name him the infamous Potomac River Rapist, detectives simply called him their “unknown subject.” For nearly three decades, detectives had no idea who he was until a bike cop named Smugs began connecting the dots and finally cracked the case. Veteran D.C. crime reporter Paul Wagner hosts the program. WTOP director of news & programming Julia Ziegler says, “Paul has done it again. He is such a great storyteller. Listeners will be captivated from the first minute of episode 1.”

Economy/Inflation, Trump Legal Issues, Midterms/2024 Presidential Race, Immigration, Hurricane Ian Aims for Tampa, Russia-Ukraine War, European Politics, and NASA’s DART Mission Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/26). Inflation, the sell-off on the world’s financial markets, and threats of a recession; former President Donald Trump’s New York civil suit and the DOJ’s documents investigation; the November midterm elections and the potential nominees for president in 2024; the Biden administration’s immigration policy and the transporting of migrants; Hurricane Ian hits western Cuba and threatens the Tampa Bay area; Vladimir Putin’s threat of nuclear force in the Ukraine war; concerns about a neo-fascist trend in European politics after Giorgia Meloni leads the conservative alliance to victory in Italian elections; and NASA’s DART mission hits an asteroid in an attempt to change its course were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.