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Huffington Post: 'Talk Radio Is Not Bonafide News!' 
One of the first questions Tom Wheeler's FCC will have to decide is "is talk radio the same as 'bonafide news'?" says Sue Wilson, Director of the "Broadcast Blues" Media Action Center, in a Huffington Post article. Wheeler, of course, has been nominated by President Obama to be the new Chairman of the FCC. Wilson's view on the question comes early -- with the headline, "Tell the FCC: Talk Radio Is Not 'Bonafide News'!" But she claims she's not alone in that view. "More than three-quarters of the American public say no, according to Pew Research, and one would think an agency sworn to protect the public interest and its airwaves would agree with that vast majority. But will Wheeler choose to put the public interest first, or will his FCC continue to simply turn a blind eye, as the agency has done since the Reagan administration?" According to the HuffPo article, the "bonafide news" question has its roots in an urgent complaint filed at the FCC in the middle of the 2012 Scott Walker gubernatorial recall campaign in Wisconsin. "Two huge local AM radio stations (WISN and WTMJ) were actively promoting candidate Walker on their local talk radio programs for about 160 minutes a day, every day, even using our publicly-owned airwaves to recruit volunteers for the Walker campaign. But neither station would allow a single supporter of the other candidate (Democrat Tom Barrett) on their shows." Says Wilson, "Such selective private censorship over our public airwaves violates not only the First Amendment -- by denying certain individuals free speech -- but also the "Zapple Doctrine," a little known FCC rule (also called the quasi-equal opportunities rule) that requires stations to provide comparable time for supporters of both political parties when it is requested." We're also told that with assistance from the Media Action Center (MAC), Wisconsin citizens filed a complaint on May 24, 2012, expecting to have the matter resolved before the 2012 general election. "But nothing happened." Read more here.
FCC Acting Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn Makes Staff Announcements 
The FCC's Acting Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn makes staff appointments. “I am delighted to welcome this group of outstanding professionals and public servants to my office. Their roles and responsibilities are vital to the Commission’s work as we serve the American people. This is a strong team, and I will rely on their steady counsel, depth of knowledge, and valuable experience in my role as Acting Chairwoman,” says Clyburn. She appointed P. Michele Ellison, currently Chief of the Enforcement Bureau, as Chief of Staff. Dave Grimaldi will serve as Chief Counsel and Senior Legal Advisor. She also named legal advisors, including Louis Peraertz for wireless, international, and public safety issues; Rebekah Goodheart for wireline issues; and Sarah Whitesell, currently Deputy Bureau Chief of the Media Bureau, for media issues. Drema Johnson will serve as Confidential Assistant. Dorothy Givens-Terry will serve as Special Assistant. Carol Lott and DeeAnn Smith will serve as Staff Assistants. Ellison, who will serve as Chief of Staff, previously served as Chief of the FCC's Enforcement Bureau. Grimaldi will serve as Chief Counsel and Senior Legal Advisor. Grimaldi previously served as Chief of Staff in then Commissioner Clyburn’s office after serving as Senior Counsel to House Majority Whip James Clyburn on technology and telecommunications, foreign affairs, and financial services regulation.
Coco Brother Quits 'Spirit Of Hip Hop' Show 
Atlanta-based syndicated personality Coco Brother (Cory Condrey) exits his inspirational "Spirit of Hip Hop" show. The show originated at Radio One’s "Praise 102.5" WPZE-FM, and aired on more than three dozen stations. AccessAtlanta's Rodney Ho reports that Coco Brother said he's "struggled the past 18 months whether to leave or not." Coco Brother tells Ho, "I cleaned my office out a month ago." The Atlanta media reporter notes that Coco wrote a resignation note, which included, "If you are wondering, I will continue to do radio, but I feel like I need to spread my wings in order to grow at the level that I'm being called to." Condrey has plans to launch his own radio company and sign other hosts. So what's next, in the short run? The host -- who continues "Lift Every Voice" for BET -- says he will spend the summer working with kids at the Exodus Youth Camp. "I'm tired of reading news stories of how this kid got killed," says Coco Brother/Condrey. In his note to Radio One, Coco wrote: "This is not a good bye guys.... It's moving more into destiny and purpose. I look forward to spending time with you ALL in the future. I'm here for you.... ALWAYS willing to serve however I can." Gospel artist James Fortune, who is based in Houston, will be in Atlanta the next two weeks as his show "The James Fortune Show" takes over CoCo's "Praise 102.5" 7-10pm slot. Atlanta's 'Magic' Goes Local in Afternoons with 'SiMan' 
Radio One Urban AC "Magic 107.5/97.5" WAMJ-FM/WUMJ-FM, Atlanta, goes local in the afternoon moving night host Silas "SiMan" Alexander up from nights. SiMan fills the gap created by the end of the syndicated Michael Baisden show. "Magic" had aired Cumulus Media's Baisden replacement offering Skip Murphy. But station management says they "felt we needed a local program" in afternoons. Radio One Atlanta General Manager Tim Davies says he decided to drop Murphy, and move SiMan up from nights where he's aired on "Magic" for the past seven years. The last time SiMan hosted afternoons was more than a decade ago at "Kiss 104.1" WALR-FM. "I'm no Michael Baisden," says "SiMan" Alexander. "It won't be the same show. Hopefully, it will have the good energy Michael Baisden brings. That's all I can promise. I will have to grow into it and see what happens." Meanwhile, market veteran Rene Miller is named to replace Alexander on the night shift. Miller, a longtime host in the market, returns to the 107.5 frequency of her former Jazz station radio home after a four-year break from radio to run a marketing company, working with the Georgia Lottery. Artie Moves to Afternoons on Charlotte's ‘V101.9’ 
CBS Radio's Urban AC "V101.9" WBAV-FM, Charlotte, adds Artie for "Artie in the Afternoon," starting Monday (June 3), as she crosses the hall from sister Urban "Power 98" WPEG-FM where she's hosted middays. Says Operations Manager and Program Director Terri Avery, "We are excited to bring a show to afternoon drive that is not only live and local but is able to address the topics that are most important to our community while giving our audience the best variety of hits and ol’ School. We are excited for Artie to take on this new challenge. She is passionate about the format and has earned this opportunity." Providence's WPRO Launches Online Op-Ed Page 
"Newstalk 630" WPRO-AM (also simulcast on 99.7 FM), Providence, is launching "Your Voice, Your Turn" -- an op-ed platform on 630WPRO.com -- where the voices of "notable Rhode Islanders will share their opinions with the people of the Ocean State." To launch the new online feature on 630WPRO.com, Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Deborah Gist has written an op-ed entitled, "The Truth About Testing." Before coming to Rhode Island, Gist served as the first State Superintendent of Education for the District of Columbia. She began her career in education 25 years ago as an elementary-school teacher in Fort Worth and, later, in Tampa, where she conceived, designed, and initiated a literacy program serving families in 108 elementary schools in Hillsborough County. Says WPRO Program Director Craig Schwalb, "As Commissioner of Education, Ms. Gist's voice is prominent in, and important to, Rhode Island which makes her the perfect choice to launch the 'Your Voice, Your Turn' Op-Ed platform on 630wpro.com." We're also told that 630WPRO.com will showcase the views of other notable Rhode Islanders on a regular basis. Former gubernatorial candidate Frank Caprio, now running for his former position as Rhode Island General Treasurer, is scheduled to offer the next "Your Voice, Your Turn" op-ed.
Updated: What's Going On Now at RadioDiscussions.com? Original Report: Board Editors MIA, No New 'Official Posts' for Several Days 
Is it just the moving of the board site to new servers under its new owners -- or is something more under way at the leading national radio board site, RadioDiscussions.com? The site, just recently acquired by Streamline (Radio Ink and RBR), we'd been told, was being moved to new servers. That was the word from "Managing Board Editor" on May 23, in response to a user question in the
"Ask RadioDiscussions" section. But no one has heard from "Managing Board Editor" since then, when MBE posted, "I can't stress enough how fast things are changing to improve the user experience. My staff and I have been here for most of the last decade and we sympathize with how irritating some of these problems have been. Those issues will soon be a thing of the past." But a new user question -- on "Posts coming and going?" -- in a thread started May 28, has yet to receive any official response. Many additional posts by RadioDiscussions "members" have been added, up to and including today -- all noting problems wth "posts keep coming and going" - appearing, disappearing and at some point re-appearing. That, we've guessed, is related to the in-progress (?) move to new servers. But we wonder why there's been no official response? MBE is not the only one currently MIA. There have been no "announcement" posts from "Board Editor" -- where new topics are highlighted and users are encouraged to "Read and discuss" with a link to the thread -- since May 27. Those posts have previously been made, to stimulate discussions, virtually every day, including weekends. It may only be that the transition necessitates the temporary (?) halt of "board editor" posts of any kind. But already the rumor mill is buzzing that they (actually staff moderators) are out under the new ownership, despite MBE's upbeat last post, May 23 -- or an official statement that the existing moderators/board editors were being retained by the new owners. We are waiting to find out what's really happening!
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio As JVC Media takes over (via an LMA) the Gainesville-Ocala Florida cluster they are acquiring from Asterisk Communications, JVC will flip two of the stations to new formats June 1. News Talk "99.5 The Star" WBXY-FM flips to Dance CHR "Party 99.5" (the same format heard on JVC's 105.3 Long Island). Sports Talk "105 The Game" WYGC-FM will begin simulcasting sister Country WTRS-FM, which will drop its "Thunder Country" brand in favor of "My Country" on both signals ... Results Radio swaps the frequencies and call letters of co-owned Classic Hits "K-Hits" KCCL-FM and AC "Sunny" KMJE-FM, Sacramento. This moves their "K-Hits" from 92.1 to 101.5 FM. KCCL-FM is being temporarily simulcast on KMJE=FM. Future plans for KMJE-FM remain to be announced, but "Sunny" is apparently out ... Lexington, Kentucky, based LM Communications Radio Group VP of Programming Charlie Kendall is retiring after a 50-year radio career. "Not many people can find what they want to do in life at the age of 14 and keep doing it for 50 years. I have been so fortunate to work with some of the greatest owners, managers and DJs on this planet and I've had the opportunity to hold every job in radio including ownership," says Kendall ... Hot AC "Live 95.9" WBEC-FM, Pittsfield, Massachusetts, welcomes veteran radio host Rob Poulin for mornings ... Jim Apfelbaum's "That's Golf" show celebrates its 16th anniversary on Sports Talk "1300 The Zone" KVET-AM, Austin Saturday (June 1). The program airs Saturday mornings from 8-9am and is the longest-running golf radio show in Texas.
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From Mark Harris Broadcast Consulting
Friday, May 31, 2013
Friday's Radio & Media News - May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Thursday's Radio & Media News - May 30, 2013
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Study: Broadcasters Unconcerned By Cross-Ownership Competitors? 
Local broadcasters are not concerned about rival companies with cross-ownership holdings, according to a new survey conducted for the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council (MMTC) by BIA/Kelsey. Some, though, might question the results. The study shows that local owners are not worried about such competitors having an advantage in the market. However, those results are based on only 14 responses representing 31 stations. But eight of the responses came from companies with minority or female owners. "While we would have preferred to have received more responses, we believe that the responses that we did receive indicated there is no difference in the views of the two groups of stations towards the impact of these cross-media operations," says BIA/Kelsey.
More 'Infinite Dial 2013' -- This Time Examining Religious Radio P1's 
One in three Religious Format P1s listen to Online Radio weekly, while AM/FM Radio is the top in-car medium, but CD player usage is higher than average. More than twice as many as average have signed up to receive email from their P1 station. Arbitron and Edison Research release more in-depth data from their 2013 "Infinite Dial" study. After releasing additional data on AC, Urban and CHR listeners, the latest report looks at P1s for Religious radio stations. According to "Infinite Dial 2013," 71 percent of Religious P1 listeners have Wi-Fi in their homes, with 27 percent living in homes with at least five Wi-Fi connected devices. Both numbers are above the average of those surveyed. While one-third of Religious P1s tune in to online radio on a weekly basis, they are less likely than the average radio listener to use Pandora -- just 12 percent said they had in the past week. Religious P1s essentially have an average awareness of Pandora, iHeartRadio and Spotify. Also, 44 percent of Religious P1s are familiar with podcasting, but 16 percent listened to one in the last month, which is above the overall average. Just under one-third of Religious P1s watch YouTube on a weekly basis, while 54 percent are likely to keep their cellphone "within arm's length." Only 24 percent of Religious P1s use their cellphone to wake them up in the morning, which is below the 30 percent average, and just 44 percent own a smartphone.
Borrell: 'Assessing Local Digital Sales Forces - 2013 Update' Radio's Digital Account Executives Have Lowest Starting Salary 
Borell Associates releases a new report examining how media hires and pays digital account executives. According to the latest study, 11 percent of radio stations have dedicated digital sellers, compared to 44 percent in TV and 57 percent in newspaper. The average starting salary of a digital AE in radio is $32,200 while television offers $42,250 -- and a pureplay Internet company pays $54,100. Newspapers pay an average salary of $34,458. All of those are base salaries, before bonuses and commissions. This year's "2013 Update" is the third in a series of such reports. Borell notes that they "first surveyed sales managers on these issues in August 2009, then repeated it in November/December 2011 (reported in January 2012). Our latest survey was conducted in April and May 2013." Participants were solicited through Borell Associates’ client base, as well as through promotions by the RAB, Local Media Association, and Local Search Association.
Tim Roberts Adds Detroit 'Amp Radio' Operations Manager 
Trudi Daniels to Co-Host WCSX-FM/Detroit Mornings 
Market veteran Trudi Daniels is named the new morning show co-host at Classic Rock WCSX-FM, Detroit, teaming with station mainstay Ken "KC" Calvert starting Monday. Daniels was most recently heard on the air as the long-time news personality on Detroit’s Rock WRIF-FM ("101The Riff") for the past 22 years. "I spent most of my life going to concerts and had to find some way to keep getting free tickets,” says Daniels, who is originally from Sandusky, Ohio. “I'm also going for the record for shortest radio move -- about 40 yards and across the hall." Yes, WCSX-FM and WRIF-FM are sister stations operated by Greater Media Detroit. We're told that with her unique and flat-out funny take on twisted stories from the shadows of today's headlines, Daniels is a perfect match for Calvert, who described his new partner as “an outstanding talent and the perfect choice to co-host the morning show.” Daniels had been the longtime “Drew and Mike” news director on WRIF-FM. She said goodbye to listeners and longtime hosts Drew Lane and Mike Clark on May 17 when “Drew and Mike” ended its highly rated 22-year run on WRIF-FM. “Dave and Chuck the Freak” this week their run as the replacement for Lane and Clark on WRIF-FM. Greater Media Detroit Market Manager Steve Chessare tells us, "The WCSX air staff is a collection of outstanding on-air personalities from Detroit Rock Radio history. Trudi is an outstanding talent and the perfect choice to co-host the morning show with Ken Calvert. We are thrilled she will continue to remain a part of the Greater Media Detroit family." Before her 22 years "across the hall," Daniels worked as a morning show host in Boston, Sacramento and two Ohio markets (Columbus and Toledo). TKRN Brings Back 'Powerline' with Brother Jon Rivers 
The Tom Kent Radio Network launches the new "Powerline" hosted by Brother Jon Rivers. "Powerline" was a staple at Top 40 Radio in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, and was hosted by Rivers worldwide on over 2,000 stations. The new "Powerline" will air on TKRN's "24/7 Fun" Classic Hits network on Sunday mornings. It will be available to Adult Contemporary and Classic Hits stations as weekend Sunday programming playing Classic Hits and Gold Based AC hits with an inspirational message. "When my dear friend Tom Kent offered me a chance to help bring back the show it was a joyous day! I have admired Tom for even longer than I hosted Powerline," says Rivers. "Everything he has ever done has been compelling and entertaining. It is a pleasure to work with him again and to at last get back on the Powerline." In addition to hosting Powerline, Rivers also hosts the nationally syndicated show "20, The Countdown Magazine" and has programmed and worked mornings at KLTY and KNUS in Dallas as well as KILT in Houston. Says Kent, "Brother Jon Rivers is not only an iconic GREAT air talent but also one of the best people I've ever known in this business. He's a good guy with a tremendous passion for delivering excellent radio and we couldn't be more thrilled to have Brother Jon in our ever expanding talent pool." Knoxville's WOKI-FM Proposes Frequency Move, Upgrade 
Cumulus Media's "News Talk 98.7" WOKI-FM, Knoxville, is seeking a signal upgrade with a move to 98.3 FM. The move, however, is contingent on changes involving three other stations -- 98.3 WHAY- FM, Whitley City, Kentucky; 98.3 WMTY-FM, Sweetwater, Tennessee; and 98.5 WTFM-FM, Kingsport, TN. Agreements with two of those stations -- WHAY-FM and WTFM-FM -- have been filed at the FCC. The third station -- WMTY-FM -- would receive an “involuntary” change of frequency to 95.7 under the plan. WOKI would move from 98.7 to 98.3 with a classification change from C3 to C2. The station, which currently operates with 8000 watts, would increase power to 45000 watts from a new tower eight miles closer to Knoxville. WHAY-FM would relocate from 98.3 to 95.7 FM. WTFM-FM’s change would only involve changing its licensed coordinates while remaining at the same tower and antenna height. The FCC has accepted the applications for review. But whether the Commission will approve the plan is another question. Andy Parks DC Radio Show Moves to Salem's WRC-AM 
The Washington Times venture with longtime DC radio talker Andy Parks moves from afternoons at Metro Radio's WTNT-AM to crosstown Salem Communications WRC-AM, 11am-1pm. Parks was once half of the “Grandy and Andy” morning show on WMAL-AM, with former TV actor and ex-Congressman Fred Grandy. Says Parks, "The combination of the resources of The Washington Times and WRC 1260 provides a great opportunity to explore the news of the day, examine the big issues and break stories. I look forward to bringing those elements of the show to the listeners at WRC.” Salem DC Market Manager Thomas Moyer tells us, “The Washington Times is the only Washington-based newspaper that is committed to conservative American values. WRC 1260 is the only Washington-area talk radio station committed to similar conservative American values. This is a partnership that makes sense. This is a unique opportunity coming to our lineup.” Parks' WRC-AM show airs between Salem Radio Network’s Mike Gallagher and Dennis Prager.
NABEF 'Celebration of Service' Features FCC Commissioners, 
The 15th annual Celebration of Service to America Awards, produced by the NAB Education Foundation (NABEF), will take place Monday (June 3) in Washington DC. "Recognized among the top Washington events, the gala will honor radio and television broadcasters from across the country for exceptional community service," says a news release. The event will also include the presentation of NABEF's highest honor, the Service to America Leadership Award, to Stevie Wonder, with four-time Grammy Award nominee Oleta Adams performing a musical tribute to Wonder. We're told that among the government officials and legislators presenting awards are acting FCC Chair Mignon Clyburn, FCC Commissioners Ajit Pai and Jessica Rosenworcel, Senator Richard Burr, Reps. Greg Walden, Jim Bridenstine, Kathy Castor, Eliot Engel, Jim Matheson, Chris Stewart, and Paul Tonko. A record number of members of Congress will be in attendance. Several members from the North Carolina congressional delegation will attend in support of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters, whose members will receive the President’s Special Award, and North Carolina-based Lowe's, winner of the Corporate Leadership Award.
NJBA Schedules 'Pandora Punishing Session' 
The New Jersey Broadcasters Association (NJBA) has scheduled a "Pandora Punishing Session." NJBA President and CEO Paul Rotella says it will be part of the upcoming 66th Annual NJBA Conference and Gala June 18-19 in Atlantic City. The panel, we're told, will feature Research Director's Charlie Sislen and Katz Radio Group EVP of Radio Analysis and Insights Mary Beth Garber. Says Rotella, "Join Charlie and Mary Beth for an inside baseball look at the specious claims of your would-be competitors and tear the knob off of their presentations before they poach your clients." The two-day conference will also feature a “Super Programming Session: The Future of Broadcast!” That session will be moderated by NJBA Board Member and Salem Communications VP/Director Spoken Word Phil Boyce. The roundtable will include: Scott Herman, EVP Operations CBS Radio; Joe Puglise, President and Market Manager Clear Channel New York; Eric Johnson, Program Director Townsquare Media NJ; Jeff Smulyan, CEO Emmis Communications; Walter Sabo, Chairman of Sabo Media; Joseph Kerry, Chief of Staff, Mercury Radio Arts and the Glenn Beck Show; Steve Jones, SVP ABC News Radio and Gordon Borrell, CEO of Borrell Associates. More information on the upcoming conference is available at www.njba.com. Fred Jacobs: What Radio Can Learn from MLB's Digital Division 
What can radio learn from Major League Baseball's digital division? In a JacoBlog post, Jacobs Media President Fred Jacobs looks at that question -- and offers some answers. The post -- "Fail Fast" -- is based on "an insightful interview by the Wall Street Journal’s Walter Mossberg with Bob Bowman, MLB's head of Advance Media." Jacobs writes that "there are great lessons about how traditional entertainment businesses are navigating the digital space -- especially mobile."
Radiate Media Traffic Adds Lincoln's San Diego Stations 
Radiate Media will provide traffic information for Lincoln Financial Media's San Diego stations, under a new agreement. Stations receiving the Radiate Media traffic reports include Country KSON-FM, Smooth AC KIFM-FM and Alternative KBZT-FM. Radiate notes that these stations represent a significant increase in audience coverage for the firm in the San Diego market, while expanding the reach for their advertisers on the Radiate Media radio network. "San Diego radio listeners rely on the radio properties of Lincoln Financial Media to provide them with timely, relevant information and entertainment. Now, with the addition of Radiate Media's traffic service, they have the most accurate, real-time traffic data," says Radiate Media's Dave Van Dyke. "We will be working closely with Lincoln Financial's management team of Market Manager Rick Jackson, Director of Sales Steve Sklenar and Station Program Directors Kevin Callahan and Mike Vasquez to insure the best experience for their listeners." LFM San Diego Market Manager Rick Jackson tells us, "Radiate Traffic brings a new dimension to the service that we provide both to our advertisers and to our listeners. Listeners of KBZT, KIFM and KSON -- San Diego's most popular and highest rated station -- will hear a substantial upgrade in traffic reports while our clients will enjoy our ability to showcase their products with this truly dynamic service."
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Brian Casey is the new afternoon host at Hot AC WLBC-FM, Muncie, Indiana. He's also Production Director for WLBC-FM and sister Sports Talk WXFN-AM ("Fox Sports 1340") ... KZIZ-AM, Seattle-Tacoma, flips to Smooth Jazz as "Jazzy Z" using Allen Kepler's Smooth Jazz Network ... Sports Talk "93.7 The Ticket" KNTK-FM, Lincoln, Nebraska, promotes midday co-host John Gaskins to Program Director ... News Talk KFWB-AM, Los Angeles, morniing sports anchor Bret Lewis retires from radio, as of May 31. Afternoon sports anchor Bill Seward will take over from Lewis, while Bob Harvey takes over from Seward in afternoons ... Summit City Radio Group will flip Adult Standards/Talk "1250 The River" WGL-AM and AC "V102.9" WGL-FM, Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Classic Hits "Oldies 102.9 FM and 1250 AM" June 3. Summit City says the new format will focus on pop hits from the 1960s and 1970s. Veteran Fort Wayne radio personality Rick Hughes will join the station for mornings.
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"We were struck by the lack of any large concern by almost all of the respondents to these cross-media operations." They add, "The results of this study, while not dispositive, do provide evidence that the impact of cross-media ownership on minority and women broadcast ownership is probably negligible." The study was just submitted to the FCC, including acting FCC Chair Mignon Clyburn, who helped push for a study of the effects of cross-ownership rules. The MMTC suggested that the FCC ask for comments on their study as well. With Clyburn currently heading the FCC on an interim basis, and another seat at the Commission currently vacant, it is expected the cross-ownership rules review will again be delayed until the two Commission vacancies are formally filled.
Question wording and issues evolved over time, so not all questions were identical. The survey was conducted online. For the 2013 survey, 220 media executives responded to the interview solicitation. One-third were from newspaper companies, 56% from broadcasting, 12% from yellow pages, and 4% from Internet pureplays. The survey found that hiring and training sales reps has become a top priority in the local media industry. Local media companies with digital-only reps, according to BA, average twice the online revenue of those without digital reps, have a sales staff that exhibits greater ability to consult with and educate advertisers, and have a sales staff with stronger capabilities to understand and sell digital products. But not everyone wants to be part of this digital revenue shift. Writes Borell, "Our survey found several managers who haven’t boarded the digital bandwagon. 'We should be focusing on our strength, audio advertising,' one radio manager commented, 'not selling our clients the pipe dream of 'interactivity' that digital has promised but seldom delivers.' It’s a minority opinion, but certainly represents a sibling rivalry occurring in local media families where the cute digital brother gets all the attention." The survey does find that hiring digital sales reps is on the upswing again. "Our first survey in 2009 revealed that 60% of respondents had at least one rep whose sole focus was digital products. By 2011 the recession had cut that figure to 46%. Our latest survey shows 62% of sales managers in newspapers, radio, TV and yellow pages companies reporting that they employ digital-only reps. But it’s not a lot. Two-thirds of those respondents said they have no more than two. There appears to be formidable competition from online pureplay companies." Borrell adds, "The pureplay managers in our 2013 survey reported an average starting salary of $54,100 for reps, which is about 50% higher than what TV, newspaper and radio managers were offering." For more information about the 2013 study, contact Greg Harmon at Borell Associates [gharmon@borrellassociates.com].
Says Jacobs, "First, there's an experimental aspect to what MLB has accomplished, led by the vision of MLB Commissioner Bud Selig who championed the idea of a digital division for his league." After offering a quote from the cited interview to support that, Jacobs adds, "Second, there's a realization that mobile is the thing." And, "Third, it's about making the experience a great one. And yes, it's time spent with the MLB app averages out to only 10 minutes a day." Anything else? "Fourth, it's about knowing your audience." The post notes, "Bowman's team knows MLB's target audience." We're only hitting some highlights here -- to encourage you to read the full JacoBlog post for yourself. "Finally, as Bowman notes, 'We like to fail fast.' And with that, 'We want to make sure we're respectful of people's time'," writes the Jacobs Media President. Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Wednesday's Radio & Media News - May 29, 2013
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Techsurvey9: Sports Audience Increases Media and Gadget Usage 
Jacobs Media, releasing more data from the Techsurvey9 study of core radio listeners, says that more than 4,500 Sports Radio fans express clear preferences for how they use digital media and broadcast radio to satisfy their sports interest. Twitter, we're told, continues to be an important conduit for Sports Radio stations, as fans enjoy following both stations and personalities on that social network. Says Jacobs Media President Fred Jacobs, "Sports Radio fans are a smart, tech-savvy group. From smartphones to tablets to connected cars, they are using mobility and portability to feed their habit. Radio operators need to get on their frequency to optimize listening, even in sports hungry markets." Some key takeaways from the latest release include: Mobile & mobility are in the forefront. In Techsurvey9, Sports Radio listeners are moving quickly to purchase smartphones and tablets. Nearly seven in ten (69%) now own a smartphone (+14% from TS8), while more than four in ten (42%) have acquired a tablet (+55% from TS8). There's a special Sports Radio/car relationship. Not only are fans of Sports Radio stations more likely to indicate that the bulk of their broadcasting radio listening takes place behind the wheel, they are more apt to have the ability to connect an iPod-like device or a phone in their main vehicle. And Sports Radio partisans are among the leaders for owning a car with a "digital dashboard." And they lead the league in downloading radio apps. Of those with smartphones who download apps, nearly three-fourths (74%) say they've downloaded a radio-centric mobile application-a big deal for Sports Radio stations working on their mobile strategies. The Twitter leaders in the clubhouse. While four in ten Sports Radio fans use Twitter, well more than half (55%) follow stations and/or personalities on that platform-far more than any of the other 11 format fan groups in TS9. Sports Radio stations that don't actively use Twitter are missing key opportunities to connect with fans. The toothpaste is out of the tube. More so than most other format partisans, Sports Radio fans are more apt to use their favorite stations on digital platforms. Overall, nearly one-fourth (23%) recalled listening for the past week occurred via streams on computers, mobile devices, as well as on-demand. They are big time into satellite radio. Nearly one-fourth (24%) of Sports Radio fans say they subscribe to satellite radio (or are on a free trial). And a key reason why some Sports Radio partisans say they're listening to less broadcast radio is due to SiriusXM. They like radio, but... Fewer Sports Radio fans start their media days with broadcast radio, and they are more apt to be heavy Internet radio users than heavy radio listeners. Sports Radio stations are challenged to keep these core fans engaged with their stations. Digital avenues are key to retaining these fans. Stil to come from Jacobs Media are Techsurvey9 webinars for Rock/Classic Rock/Alternative (June 4) and AC/CHR/Hot AC (June 10). Techsurvey9 results were gathered online from January 29 to February 19. Overall, 264 broadcast stations across the U.S. and Canada participated, contributing 78,111 total respondents.
Survey Shows Americans Most Want to Keep Computers 
A new Clear Channel Media and Entertainment survey upends some commonly held misconceptions about the use and ownership of electronic devices, including the fact that respondents would rather keep their computer and give up their TV, smartphone and tablet if they could only use one device for a year.
Western states love their smartphones: In what will likely come as a surprise to the fast-paced, connected population on the East Coast, respondents from Western states were more likely to have a smartphone (56%) than those in the Northeast (46%) and the Midwest (42%). Women have more electronics: When it comes to smartphones and tablets, women are actually more likely than men to own these gadgets -- 52% of women have smartphones vs. 43% of men; and 31% of women have a tablet or e-reader compared to 25% of men. Multitasking: Media multitasking is now mainstream across all media channels. 65% of respondents have been online while watching TV at the same time; 59% have been online while listening to music; and even 25% of respondents watch TV and listen to music at the same time. Consumers want their gadgets close by -- day and night: Only one in ten consumers (11%) think it is "no big deal" if they accidentally leave their smartphone at home for the day. A large majority (78%) keep their smartphones in the bedroom at night, with 60% keeping their phones within arm's reach on the nightstand. Does constant connection come with a price? Though almost 70% of smartphone owners feel "connected" most or all of the time, they are split on the benefits, with 51% saying they "love it" and 49% saying it "has its pluses and minuses." Music is the ultimate "mood-enhancer": Two out of three consumers choose to turn on music (59%) rather than TV (39%) when they are looking to change their mood. "Consumers continue to change rapidly and surprise us. Preconceptions about men and women, young and old, are always tested," says CCME EVP of Insights and Analytics Radha Subramanyam. "This research helps sketch out a picture of how Americans spend their time-and what their priorities are."
TRN Suit Against Dial Global and Others Moved to New York, 
Talk Radio Network (TRN)'s lawsuit against competing talk show syndicators has been moved from a California court to a District Court in New York. The antitrust suit was filed against Dial Global, Triton Media and others. Courtside Entertainment has been dropped as a defendant in the suit. Courtside's motion to be dismissed as a defendant was granted by Judge Jesus Bernal in California for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, dismissing TRN's claims of interference with talent contracts. Bernal also granted the transfer motion, leaving the other allegations for the New York judge to rule upon or dismiss. Remaining defendants include Dial Global and related entities, Triton Media Group, Excelsior Radio Networks, Verge Media, Compass Media, and WYD Media Management. TRN is suing the companies alleging violation of anti-trust and monopoly laws in sales representation of independent spoken word radio. Bott Radio Network Joins iHeartRadio 
Bott Radio Network (BRN), which specializes in Christian Talk Radio, will now be available on Clear Channel Media and Entertainment's iHeartRadio digital radio service. BRN's 93 stations will promote iHeartRadio on-air, and BRN will continue to stream its broadcasts at www.bottradionetwork.com. "We are excited to provide a broadcast-friendly platform for Bott Radio Network and a fully integrated digital listening experience for their listeners," says Brian Lakamp, President of Digital for Clear Channel Media and Entertainment.
STRATA: New Challenges Emerge As Q1 Ad Economy Strengthens Changes in Social Media Utilization and ROI Questions Linger 
Media buying agencies are experiencing major business growth and expect that growth to strengthen throughout the rest of the year, according to the latest quarterly survey conducted by STRATA. And there's good news for radio: 21% of media ad buyers surveyed say they are more interested in radio than they were last year. The recent study revealed that almost half (48%) of agencies polled said business is increasing this year over the same time last year; while 39% expect to see more growth in the first half of 2013 than the second half of 2012. This growth has led to many shops expanding their business as 39% plan on hiring this year (the largest amount since the first quarter of 2012). This is fueled by the fact that 28% say their clients are increasing their Marketing/Advertising budgets from last year. Even with more cash available, advertisers continue to spend on core channels. Compared to all other media types - TV was the most utilized avenue last quarter at 48%, followed by Digital (34%) and Radio (9%). When asked about their approach to TV, respondents were more interested in spot cable than they have been in five years (32% were more interested in cable than they were a year ago). Spot TV also saw a spike in interest, up 22% from last year. While these signs of an increase in business are encouraging, they do present unique challenges. Finding new clients has become a new difficulty for agencies, as 53% stated that client attraction is their biggest challenge (the highest number in the history of the STRATA survey and 49% higher than the first quarter of 2012). The second largest challenge was client spending (18%). However, most agencies are taking on this challenge by focusing more on business development (69%), and 47% say they will even expand into new advertising areas (such as streaming or online radio/TV).
AWM, 56 Other Groups Demand Answers on Journalists Targeting 
The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) is one of fifty-seven national groups that sent a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder demanding a full, transparent account of the Justice Department’s targeting of journalists and whistleblowers on Friday, May 24. According to news release from AWM, their group and the others "believe that actions, which expand secrecy and intimidate those trying to shed more light on our government run counter to the Obama administration's promise of a new era of openness and transparency. In the letter, the groups demand a full account of the Justice Department’s targeting of journalists and whistleblowers so that they can advocate for appropriate action to protect everyone’s constitutional rights and push for stronger legal standards to protect all types of information gathering and sharing." Says AWM President Erin Fuller, "For over 62 years, the Alliance for Women in Media has represented women in all forms of electronic media, promoting issues such as women’s media ownership and positive and realistic portrayals of women and girls. Freedom of the press is such an essential element to our allied professions, industries and the partners with which we work, and AWM was proud to stand with the 57 organizations demanding increased accountability on this issue." Representing millions of Americans, the groups include Free Press, the American Civil Liberties Union, the American Library Association, the Communications Workers of America, the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Society of Professional Journalists, the Sunlight Foundation and the Writers Guild of America East. Read the full text of the letter and the list of signers here. NY Post: 'Everybody’s Streaming - So Where's the Money?' 
The New York Post, looking at streaming services' finances, writes: "The fat lady has yet to sing, and the competition to capitalize on the digital music-streaming industry is far from over, especially with the likes of Google and Apple joining the ranks in the wake of pioneers like Spotify's Daniel Ek" (pictured). The Post says that the number of users and amount of revenue in the industry are on the rise. "Music-industry source IFPI reports that global revenue from digital music for record labels totaled $5.6 billion in 2012, up from $5.1 billion a year earlier." But the "challenge is, as usual, monetizing this audience, since consumers are accustomed to streaming music for free, thanks to 'freemium' models like Pandora." The Post report notes, "Pandora has 200 million US users, up from 100 million in 2011. Though the company has introduced a 40 hour-per-month listening restriction on free streaming, the majority of users are still listening for free. So the company relies on advertising." And says the report, the model might be working -- noting that last week Pandora reported first-quarter revenue rose 58 percent, to $128 million, thanks to largely to mobile advertising. Competitor Spotify, founded by Ek, counts 20 million active users and has a healthy advantage in the marketplace, thanks to its relationship with Facebook. Sam Hamadeh, founder and CEO of PrivCo, explains, “Spotify is clearly gaining market share from Pandora and others. Although Spotify continues to lose vast sums of money annually, its investments in growing both free and paying users are clearly paying off. And since Spotify has raised $286 million in venture-capital funding, the company can continue to lose money to gain market share — at least until the supply of new capital dries up.” Clear Channel's iHeartRadio, says the Post, trails Spotify and Pandora. Other players include Rdio, the Amazon-backed Songza and the pay-only Rhapsody. Read more here. Radio One Promotes Shawneen Thompson to St. Louis VP/GM 
Shawneen Thompson is promoted from Station Manager to VP and General Manager for Radio One's Urban Oldies "Old School 95.5" WFUN-FM and Hip Hop "Hot 104.1" WHHL-FM in St. Louis. She's been Station Manager there for the past three years. Says Regional VP Chris Wegman, "Shawneen has led our St. Louis operations to strong performances for a number of years. I am confident her leadership and community involvement will continue to grow our operations." Thompson adds, "I am excited to begin this next phase in my career and to continue to guide the Radio One St. Louis cluster by bridging the gap between the community we serve and the clients we work with on a local and national basis. I look forward to charting a course for our station's continued success in this ever changing media landscape." Thompson's radio career, spanning more than 20 years, began in the talent and programming side of radio in 1991, berfore she moved over to sales about seven years later. Her years in radio include a number of formats -- Country, Classic Rock, Oldies, Sports, AC and ultimately Urban. That career has included stops in Columbus, Ohio; Dallas, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia, among others, before St. Louis. She's previously worked for CBS Radio and Cox Radio, as well as Nationwide Communications and Blue Chip Broadcasting. All Cumulus Stations Raising Money for Tornado Victims Today 
Cumulus Media is raising money throughout the day today on all of its 525 radio stations for the victims of last week’s devastating Oklahoma tornado. The fundraising efforts feature local on-air personalities asking listeners to make donations for the survivors and families of the victims. Says Cumulus CEO Lew Dickey, "On behalf of all our employees and the communities we are privileged to serve, our hearts and prayers go out to the families and communities that lost loved ones. We hope our efforts help to bring much-needed relief to these communities. Radio’s power to help communities in need is truly inspiring." The May 29 fundraising efforts feature local on-air personalities asking listeners to make donations for the survivors and families of the victims. At 8pm, all 84 Country stations will air a one-hour fundraising special hosted by Kix Brooks and co-hosted by KSCS/Dallas personality Hawkeye – live from backstage at the “Healing In The Heartland: Relief Benefit Concert” -- organized by Blake Shelton, airing live from Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City. All proceeds raised from the fundraising efforts will go to the United Way of Central Oklahoma Tornadoes Relief Fund to help victims of the Moore tornado. TuneIn Raises $25 Million, Tops A Billion Listening Hours 
TuneIn says it has raised $25 million in a round of funding led by Institutional Venture Partners, with participation from existing investors Sequoia Capital, Google Ventures and General Catalyst Partners. Says CEO John Donham, "This investment gives us the capital to accelerate the development of new technologies and support our ongoing expansion. We will use this funding to leverage our momentum, with a particular focus on growing ad revenues for our broadcast partners." IVP General Partner Jules Maltz, who will join the TuneIn Board of Directors, tells us, "TuneIn's rapid growth, superior business model, and ubiquitous product make for a compelling investment. John Donham is an exceptional leader with a vision to fundamentally transform the multi-billion dollar radio industry." TuneIn also announces that it surpassed one billion listening hours in the first four months of 2013, with more than 227 million listening sessions in the month of March alone. The streaming service says this solidifies "the company’s position as the world's number-one service for listening to live, online radio." Marty Franks to Exit CBS in 2013 Retirement 
CBS EVP of Planning, Policy and Government Affairs Martin "Marty" Franks says he will retire after 25 years with the company later this year. Franks, who plans to retire at the end of September, says CBS is a special place, and that he will miss everyone there. CBS Corporation President and CEO Leslie Moonves says he accepted Franks' resignation with reluctance. "The CBS we know today would not have been possible without Marty’s contributions over the past 25 years. He was instrumental in enacting Retransmission Consent, and then helped turn it into what is now a fast-growing, nine-figure revenue source for our Company." Moonves also had words of praise for Franks’ role in allowing networks to own their own programming, resulting in new domestic and international revenue streams. Accolades for the retiring CBS veteran also come from outside of CBS. NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith tells us, “If there was ever an unsung superstar in the broadcast business, it was Marty Franks. For a quarter of a century, Marty has personified professionalism at CBS. His wise Washington guidance helped broadcasters procure retransmission consent fees in the 1992 Cable Act; as Leslie Moonves’s ‘go-to guy’ in New York, Marty has provided counsel and advice as solid as a Black Rock. The NAB family wishes Marty a long and active retirement.” USRN Promotes Margaret Verghese to VP Comedy & Prep Services 
USRN (United Stations Radio Networks) promotes 12-year company veteran Margaret Verghese to the newly created position VP of Comedy and Prep Services, effective immediately. Verghese has been serving as the company's Managing Director of Pulse Content, its division that provides prep services, talent tours and web content to affiliates. In her new role, Verghese will also lead the creative team that generates the comedy services produced by USRN. Says United Stations President and COO Jim Higgins, "Margaret has been single-handedly responsible for much of the growth in both our comedy product and our prep services over the years, and this appointment is well deserved. She is a tireless executive who brings creativity and dedication to her efforts every single day, and we're thrilled to hand the reigns of these important areas of content creation over to her." Verghese started in radio at Bonneville's former CHR "Z104" WWZZ-FM, Washington DC. 'Red Eye Radio' Reaches 200 Affiliates 
The syndicated overnight show "Red Eye Radio" has reached the 200-affiliate mark, according to distributor Cumulus Media Networks. The five-hour nightly program, hosted by Eric Harley and Gary McNamara, airs 1-6am ET. Among the new affiliates are KTAR-FM/Phoenix, WTMJ-AM/Milwaukee, WFTL-AM/West Palm Beach, KJCE-AM/Austin and KBET-AM/Las Vegas. "Red Eye Radio has quickly become the source for stations to get information live as it happens in the overnight hours," says Cumulus Media Networks SVP of Affiliate Sales and Broadcast Operations Dennis Green. "When you look at the impressive lineup of stations that have come on board it speaks volumes to the success of this show!"
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio "Boston's Talk Station" WRKO-AM, Boston, tells us that starting Monday, Jeff Kuhner will add an hour to his morning show -- "The Kuhner Report" -- and “The Financial Exchange” with Barry Armstrong will now air 10am-12:00noon. Kuhner has been airing 6-9am since November 2012. Additionally, Kuhner has anchored the station’s 11am-12noon hour leading into Rush Limbaugh. Armstrong’s program began as a one-hour show in September 2010 and was expanded to two hours last year ... CHR-Top40 "Star 94" WSTR-FM, Atlanta, weekender Sari Rose is promoted to night host, replacing Orff who recently exited ... Samantha Layne exits as morning co-host at Classic Rock/Classic Hits hybrid "99.9 The Eagle" WODE-FM, Allentown, PA, after 12 years with the station ... Country "92.5 The Wolf" KWOF-FM, Denver, Production Director and evening host Dan Hardee resigns after two years to seek a new opporunity.
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"Adding Bott Radio Network to iHeartRadio offers our listeners an even more diverse listening experience." BRN President and CEO Rich Bott tells us, "We're delighted to expand the reach of our programming to serve an ever expanding audience with this new, incredibly large and diverse digital platform. Clearly iHeartRadio is the dominant provider in this new digital arena and we are pleased to present our format on this platform." Bott Radio Network Director of Broadcast Operations Eben Fowler adds, "We are excited about our new partnership with iHeartRadio and the growing audience BRN will serve, both online and through the mobile app. It's clear iHeartRadio is dedicated to innovation and providing listeners with an ever-improving experience."
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Tuesday's Radio & Media News - May 28. 2013
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Arbitron Sues Saga Communications for Unauthorized Data Use 
Arbitron has filed a federal lawsuit against Saga Communications, claiming that Saga, which is not an Arbitron subscriber, has illegally used its ratings and audience data. According to the lawsuit, filed in U. S. District Court in Delaware, Saga's Milwaukee cluster, which operates as Saga subsidiary Lakefront Communications, used its copyrighted audience estimates from approximately September of 2010 until 2012. In the suit, Arbitron says, "Defendants
Infinite Dial 2013: CHR P1s Are Big Online Listeners, 
Arbitron and Edison Research, releasing more in-depth data from their "Infinite Dial 2013" study, tell us that CHR P1s are more likely than the average radio listener surveyed to tune in to online radio on a weekly basis, with 47 percent of CHR P1s listening online regularly, compared to 33 percent of Persons 12+ overall. Also, 33 percent said they listened to Pandora in the past week, compared to an overall 20 percent. CHR P1s have above-average awareness of Pandora, iHeartRadio and Spotify, and 54 percent of them are familiar with podcasting, while 12 percent listened to one in the last month. The CHR data follows releasing of additional data on AC and Urban listeners. According to "The Infinite Dial 2013: Navigating Digital Platforms," 78 percent of CHR P1 listeners have Wi-Fi in their homes, with 34 percent living in homes with at least five Wi-Fi connected devices. Both numbers are above the average of those surveyed. About six out of ten CHR P1s watch YouTube on a weekly basis, while 64 percent are likely to keep their cellphone "within arm's length." Also, 44 percent of CHR P1s use their cellphones to wake them up in the morning and 75 percent own a smartphone, while 33 percent own a tablet device. The vast majority of CHR P1s have a social network profile, with 82 percent reporting they use social networking. CHR P1s are more likely to be frequent social media users, as 45 percent said they use such sites "several times a day." CHR P1s also have an above-average number of Facebook friends. CHR fans are also more likely to use all social media platforms, with the exception of LinkedIn.
'Rush' Out in Greensboro (But Not Limbaugh) 
The "Rush Radio" brand is out at another station -- this time in Greensboro-Winston-Salem, North Carolina, at Clear Channel's WPTI-FM. The station is re-branded to "94.5 WPTI" -- as "The Piedmont's Talk Station" -- from "Rush Radio 94.5" following a similar move at sister WTKK-FM, Raleigh, two months ago. That station had been "Rush Radio 106.1" WRDU-FM. WPTI-FM hasn't changed its Conservative Talk format, and Rush Limbaugh's Premiere-syndicated show remains on the schedule, 12noon-3pm. The similar move in Raleigh came when Clear Channel grabbed the former Boston WTKK call letters. WPTI-FM and the former WRDU-FM began using the "Rush Radio" brand when the stations obtained Limbaugh's show and flipped to Talk in 2010. Tom Taylor (in his "Now" newsletter) reports that the "lone remaining 'Rush Radio' appears to be WRNO, New Orleans (99.5) - which was also the first one." Meanwhile, Lance Venta at RadioInsight writes, "While Rush and Clear Channel continue to go out of their way to insist that there isn’t anything wrong with Rush’s brand and revenue, actions speak louder than words. You don’t rebrand a station unless you have something that needs fixing and dropping the 'Rush Radio' brand is the action that Clear Channel has now taken in two North Carolina markets." 'B104' Allentown PA Names Kyle 'Jojo' Due Program Director 
Clear Channel CHR-Top40 "B104" WAEB-FM, Allentown, Pennsylvania, names Kyle "Jojo" Due Program Director, effective June 17. Due most recently was PD at co-owned "105.7 Now" WMKS-FM, Greensboro, North Carolina. Previously, Due was PD and afternoon host at "Kiss" WKXJ-FM, Chattanooga. His radio background also includes roles at Clear Channel's "Q102" WIOQ-FM, Philadelphia; "Hot 99.5" WIHT-FM, Washington DC; "96.1 The Beat" KIBT-FM, Colorado Springs, Colorado; and "97BHT" WBHT-FM, Scranton, PA, among others. "B104" tells us that "Jojo grew up in Bangor, PA, started his career dubbing music at nearby WSBG at age 15 and one of his earliest part-time positions was at B104." Due tells us, "Honored is the first word that comes to mind when I think about this new role. Being able to lead the talented team of this heritage radio station, which helped launch my career, is just an honor. I definitely need to thank Clear Channel's senior programming team for their coaching and mentoring over the years which led me to this opportunity. I'm excited to jump in and work with the B104 team continue this station's dominance in the market." Says Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Regional Programming Manager Jeff Hureley, "Jojo’s track record of success makes him the perfect person for this position. He’ll bring a new energy and drive to our market-leading brand. He’s one of our company’s rising young programming stars and we’re thrilled to add him to our superstar team." Hurley, by the way is CCME RPM for Harrisburg, Lancaster/Reading, Williamsport and Allentown. Rob Hunter to Co-Host KTAR-FM/Phoenix Midday Show 
As we first reported briefly last week in our "Behind the Microphone" section, Bonneville Phoenix installs longtime producer and weekend talk show host Rob Hunter as co-host with Karie Dozer on the new "Rob and Karie" midday show, set to start June 3 on "News Talk 92.3" KTAR-FM. Now comes the formal announcement. "Rob is a rising star," says Bonneville Phoenix VP of Content and Operations Ryan Hatch. "He and Karie will have diverse and interesting points of view that will bring a thought provoking jolt of energy to the KTAR middays." Rob and Karie will be an opinionated and interactive look at the most topical and locally relevant news stories of the day. It will include listener calls and heavy social media integration. "This is a dream come true for me," says Hunter. "For the past six years I've worked with some of the best in the business and now I'm excited to take what I've learned and deliver an entertaining show that will make our audience think about the news a little differently." Chuck Powell, Dozer's midday radio partner for the past 18 months, will take his creative talents to a new digital content position in which he will contribute to all three Bonneville Phoenix stations -- KTAR-FM, Sports Talk KTAR-AM, and Adult Variety Hits "98.7 The Peak" KPKX-FM. He will also host a sports podcast with his former sports radio partner Vince Marotta on arizonasports.com. Dial Global Hires Shari Sterenbuch as Senior Director of Marketing 
Dial Global hires Shari Sterenbuch as Senior Director of Marketing. In this newly created position, Sterenbuch will be responsible for "creating cutting-edge promotional opportunities for content producers, advertisers and marketers." She will work out of New York City, reporting directly to VP of Marketing Suzy Schultz. Sterenbuch joins DG from Clear Channel New York, where she was Director of Promotions for WAXQ-FM, WHTZ-FM, WKTU-FM, WLTW-FM and WWPR-FM. Sterenbuch started her career as Assistant Promotions Director for Clear Channel's WKTU-FM, eventually rising to Promotions Manager. "I am thrilled to join Dial's Global's exceptional talent and management team under the leadership of CEO Paul Caine, CMO Christina Albee and VP Suzy Schultz," says Sterenbuch. "I'm delighted to work with this stellar group to grow Dial Global as a marketing powerhouse and to help our clients innovate with audio." DG VP of Marketing Suzy Schultz adds, "We're so excited to have someone of Shari's caliber join our dynamite team. Her local activation expertise and specialty in multi-platform promotional experiences will bring our sales and programming offerings to the next level." Simmons Names Jake Jensen Director Promotions/Marketing/Events 
Simmons Media Salt Lake City appoints Jake Jensen as VP and Director of Promotions, Marketing and Events for the cluster, effective June 1. That station group includes Alternative KXRK-FM, CHR-Top40 KUDD-FM, Rhythmic CHR KUUU-FM, Country KEGA-FM, Rhythmic AC KYMV-FM, and St. George, Utah, Alternative KRQX-FM and CHR KURR-FM. Jensen will continue to oversee all on-site promotion and marketing strategies of the cluster, but will now also assume the promotion and marketing of Simmons Events, where he's served as Executive Producer. Jensen will also continue to manage the tactical on-site marketing plans associated with Group Sales Promotions and Events, working closely with Group Sales Coordinator Jana Tuttle. Arbitron Has Balls! Looks at Baseball Opening Day, NBA Regular Season Radio Listening 
Arbitron has released ratings data for radio broadcasts of Major League Baseball opening day games and NBA regular season broadcasts for this season, analyzed by their Chris Meinhardt. The New York Yankees had the largest opening day cume among Persons 6+, with 581,500, followed by the Cincinnati Reds with 343,600 and the New York Mets with 264,900. Looking at the share of Men 25-54, the Milwaukee Brewers brought in the biggest number, with a massive 40.8 share in this demographic, followed by the Reds with a 36.1. Despite playing a night game for their opener, the St. Louis Cardinals ranked third with a 26.3 share. Meinhardt notes that some of the usual best performers -- like the St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies -- showed lower shares than usual because their openers were played at night. He also noted that the on-field improvement of the Pittsburg Pirates and Washinjgton Nationals is reflected in increased listenership.
ESPN Radio Enters Out-Of-Market NFL Sunday Afternoon Syndication 
ESPN Radio is entering out-of-market NFL Sunday afternoon syndication, signing individual multi-year agreements with the New York Giants, New York Jets, New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins for syndication rights beginning with the 2013 season. The agreements mark the first time ESPN Radio will broadcast NFL game action nationally on its over-the-air terrestrial network. The teams will continue to broadcast in their home markets through their official local stations. "Adding the NFL to ESPN Radio's play-by-play mix, which already includes MLB, NBA, BCS, and the new college football championship starting in 2015, strengthens an already unparalleled and valuable lineup to advertisers, our affiliates and sports fans," says ESPN SVP of Production Business Divisions Traug Keller. "We are excited to enter the NFL game business." ESPN NFL analysts Herm Edwards, Bill Polian and Damien Woody will each work several of ESPN Radio's national broadcasts. Additional commentators and the complete schedule will be announced at a later date. Research Director Sets Play-by-Play Webinar 
Research Director, in cooperation with GfK MRI, has completed an extensive study on the play-by-play radio listener that quantifies the benefits of reaching those listeners. And they will be conducting a webinar presentation of the study June 5 at 2pm ET. Says Research Director partner Charlie Sislen, “Play-by-play audiences deliver great bang for your buck. This study will help sellers differentiate their listeners from the average consumer.” Research Director says the study shows radio's sports play-by-play audience is comprised of people who make more money, are better educated, and buy more expensive houses and cars. Those are just a few of the traits of sports PBP listeners that make them more attractive and valuable to advertisers. Listeners' passion, combined with forefront sound, justifies a premium rate. To join in on the June 5 webinar, go to this gotomeeting url. Following the webinar, a portion of the study will be available here at Research Director's website. The entire study, which includes full profiles of eight sports, can be purchased from GfK MRI. FCC Releases Proposed Regulatory Fee Schedule 
The FCC has released its regulatory fee analysis and request for comment for fiscal year 2013, proposing to collect $339.8 million. The Commission notes that due to the government sequester, it must cut $17 million in salary and expenses to $322,8 million for the year -- but that the amount it needs to collect has not changed. The proposed fees show increases capped at 7.5% for the year. Under the proposal, the Media Bureau's share of the total amount to be collected is being increased from 30.2% to 33.33%. The FCC Notice says, "The sequester effectuated by the Budget Control Act of 2011 reduces the agency’s permitted Fiscal Year 2013 salary and expenses expenditures by $17M to $322,844,000. However, that Act does not alter the congressional directive ... to collect $339,844,000 in regulatory fees." Read the full proposed schedule here. Focus 360 to Rep 'Dr. Joy Browne' Radio Show 
Focus 360 signs with the "Dr. Joy Browne Radio Program" to become the exclusive national advertising sales rep of "the longest running nationally syndicated radio show of its kind," now syndicated by Radio America weekdays 12noon-3pm ET, plus weekends. The new arrangement, we're told, "expands Focus 360's roster of personality-driven radio programs." Says Focus 360 VP of Ad Sales Dick Silipigni, "An alternative to political talk radio, Dr. Joy's dynamic personality, combined with her no-nonsense advice on issues ranging from relationships, marriage, finance, work and career, has garnered her millions of devoted listeners. The addition of Dr. Joy's show to our repertoire creates more opportunities for our advertisers to reach engaged listeners." Radio America COO Mike Paradiso adds, "Dr. Joy's show has been a successful ratings winner for over 15 years. Partnering with Focus 360 will increase our revenue from national advertisers. We look forward to working with them as we continue to grow the Dr. Joy Browne Radio Program." A licensed clinical psychologist, Browne has won a number of awards for her work.
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Clear Channel CHR-Top40 "Kiss 98.3" WKSI-FM, Winchester, Virginia, Program Director and afternoon host Adam Rivers exits the station after 14-months for an as-yet unannounced position with Clear Channel ... Afternoon host Nikki Reed re-ups at CHR-Top40 "99.5 - Indy's Hit Music Station" WZPL-FM, Indianapolis, in a deal which includes her adding Music Director duties ... At "Thunder Country 96.3" WRHT-FM, Greenville, NC, Production Director Mudflap moves to 9am-12noon, Jenny Cruz takes 12noon-3pm, Program Director Dylan McKay assumes afternoons, and Music Director/Webmaster Chase adds nights ... Country WPDM-AM, Potsdam, NY, flips to CBS Sports Radio, while sister WSNN-FM becomes "B99.3" as "The 80's Hit Music Channel". Both changes come as Martz Communications takes control of the stations which they recently acquired ... KIGS-AM, Hanford, California, returns to the air as "Fox Sports 620" after a period of silence.
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have willfully and intentionally infringed Arbitron's copyrights by copying and distributing copyrighted audience estimates obtained from the Arbitron Reports and Databases without authorization from Arbitron." Arbitron adds that management and employees "regularly obtained copies of Arbitron's copyrighted audience estimates which were reproduced and circulated among its personnel" -- and used its data on a regular basis, including for setting its own ad rates. The suit also claims that the Milwaukee stations' use of Arbitron's data was "so widespread, open and notorious" that management offered an "Arbitron bonus," based on how well its stations performed in Arbitron's ratings. Arbitron is seeking an award of damages "in an amount not less than $150,000 per act of infringement, the exact amount to be determined at trial, plus an award of reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, plus an award of enhanced damages." See the federal lawsuit filing