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Emmis Fiscal Q1 Radio Net Revenues Up 6% 
Emmis Communications reports that its fiscal first quarter net income was $3.73 million, compared to a loss of $5.03 million in the prior year quarter. Net income per share for the fiscal quarter ending May 31 was $0.08, compared to a loss of $0.13 per share last year. Net income per share from continuing operations for the quarter was $0.08, compared to a net loss per common share from continuing operations of $0.07 for the same quarter of the prior year. Emmis' radio net revenues for the first fiscal quarter were up 6% to $36.9 million from $34.9 million. Excluding 98.7 FM in New York, which is being programmed by ESPN pursuant to an LMA, radio revenues were up 7%. These results, we're told, outperformed Emmis' local radio markets in which revenue growth improved 5% during the quarter. Total net revenues for the quarter increased to $50.59 million, from $48.97 million in the year ago quarter. For the first fiscal quarter, operating income increased 536% to $7.0 million, compared to $1.1 million for the same quarter of the prior year. Emmis' station operating income for the first fiscal quarter was up 55% to $12.9 million, compared to $8.3 million for the same quarter of the prior year. "Results like these are the reason that Emmis is known as one of the best operators of radio stations in the country," says President and CEO Jeff Smulyan. "In addition to our improving financial performance, our stations and magazines received a number of awards in our first fiscal quarter for community service and content excellence. I'm so proud of our Emmis team for its consistent track record of creativity, innovation and operating excellence." Jeff Smulyan: Strong Radio Industry Support for FM Cellphone Plan 
During his Friday morning earnings conference call, Emmis CEO Jeff Smulyan said "There has been an outpouring of support from the industry" for his industry-wide cellphone activated FM chip plan. He says that only one out of 70 broadcasters to whom he's spoken does not support the plan which Smulyan engineered. "I could not be more excited with the outpouring of support among broadcasters." But he's not ready to offer a specific date for when it will take effect, a plan he says will be a game changer for the radio industry. Sprint has agreed to put the chip in phones this year. "We're close to a pretty significant time here," Smulyan said. While he wouldn't be specific about the launch date, he did say an announcement was "coming soon" -- adding that "when we launch -- if the industry can be united -- it will change things forever." This is a project Smulyan and Emmis started five years ago when Emmis took on the idea while others in the industry weren't interested. Smulyan says it's been a fascinating journey that's included visits with over 150 lawmakers, wireless companies, broadcasters, and other groups. He says the industry will market the NextRadio app as "free and cool and it will be interesting and engaging to consumers." Smulyan says the activated cellphone FM chip has "the potential to be in 300 million" phones. Canada's CRTC Approves Bell Media Acquisition of Astral Media 
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has approved a takeover of Canadian broadcasting giant Astral Media by Canadian phone company BCE and its broadcasting division, Bell Media. That clears the way for the finalization of a $3.38 billion acquisition of Astral Media by Bell. This was the second attempt at the Bell-Astral deal, after the CRTC initially rejected the takeover in October 2012, saying it was not in the best interests of Canadian consumers. This time, the CRTC said the reworked deal was now in the "public interest," after Bell agreed to invest $71.5 million in Canadian content production for radio, which is equivalent to seven percent of the value of Astral's radio stations. Bell will also provide funding to not-for-profit organizations "that contribute to the growth and development of the Canadian music industry, help launch the careers of emerging artists and support campus and community radio stations." Additionally, Bell must sell 10 of Astral's radio stations, as well as 11 of its TV channels, as a concession for approval. "Astral’s application put forward a different approach and responded to many of our concerns," says CRTC Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais. "Yet there remained a significant risk that BCE could exert its market power to limit choice and competition. To ensure the public interest is served, we are requiring BCE to invest in new Canadian programming and sell more than a dozen services, and we are putting in place a number of competitive safeguards. This will maintain a healthy and competitive broadcasting system that offers more programming choices to Canadian consumers and citizens and more opportunities for Canadian creators."
Lance Venta Introduces New 'RadioInsight Community' 
Lance Venta introduces a new "RadioInsight Community" which he says will offer more than a radio board site, but an actual social network dedicated to radio. He's posted the announcement of the new "community" in a report at RadioInsight.com, reprinted in full below:
Borrell Associates: 'Local Marketers Love Promotions' 
In its 2013 Local Promotions Forecast, Borrell Associates notes, "something odd happened in 2007 in the world of marketing. While the economy was running on fumes and getting shakier by the day, local businesses did something they had never done before. They began spending more on promotions and 'owned media' -- marketing channels that they control -- than on classic advertising. And, as the economy started to recover, they began spending a lot more." Borrell says, "Simply put, local marketers have fallen in love with promotions,"and there appears to be no turning back. Even as the economy improves, they’re issuing more coupons and discounts than ever, launching more contests, reaching out to nearby customers through mobile devices, collecting more email addresses, and promoting themselves heavily on Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Twitter and their own websites.
'WJBE' Back in Knoxville (In A Manner of Speaking) 
"WJBE" returns in Knoxville, with an Urban AC format on 1040 AM and on an FM translator at 99.7. Actually, "WJBE" is (at least for now) just a part of the brand for "Today's R&B and Classic Soul” airing on WWAM-AM, Powell-Knoxville. The Urban AC station is featuring Tom Joyner in mornings. "WJBE" personality Ronnie Love says the music runs "from Classic Soul to Classy Urban Contemporary." Core artists include Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, the Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Four Tops, Gladys Knight, Marvin Gaye, Prince, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Mary J. Blige, NeYo, Beyoncé, and Miguel. Online at www.wjbe.am, it's operated by Arm and Rage which purchased the former "Classic Country 1040" WKTI-AM from Journal Broadcasting. The 99.7 FM translator, just upgraded from 10 to 99 watts, is new. The original WJBE was owned by entertainer James Brown. The calls conveyed his James Brown Enterprises (JBE) trademark. The actual WJBE call letters are currently assigned by the FCC to a non-commercial FM station licensed to serve Five Points, Alabama, owned by Big South Community Broadcasting. Omaha's '1620 The Zone' to Serve as Creighton Basketball Flagship 
NRG Media's "1620 The Zone" KOZN-AM, Omaha, will serve as flagship for Creighton Men's Basketball under a three-year deal, as the Bluejays transition to the Big East Conference. "The Zone" will air the play-by-play broadcasts and all ancillary sports coverage for the team, beginning with the upcoming 2013-14 season. An announcement on talent for the Creighton games will be forthcoming in the near future. Says KOZN-AM General Manager Andy Ruback, "It's just tremendous to earn the rights as the exclusive partner for Creighton Men's Basketball. It's an honor for The Zone to serve our listeners, advertisers and Creighton with this winning program. Adding Creighton Men's Basketball to our programming lineup is a natural fit to the station's current content and will truly enhance our entire listener experience." Creighton University Athletic Director Bruce Rasmussen adds, "We chose 1620 The Zone for many reasons, but mainly because it has long been considered Omaha's premier sports talk radio station. Its lineup, its commitment to local sports coverage, and its rank in the market made it the perfect partner for broadcasting our programs." Jimmy Steele Takes Saga Columbus Brand Manager 
Saga's Columbus Radio Group names Jimmy Steele Brand Manager (Program Director) for AC "Sunny 95" WSNY-FM, Hot AC "Mix 107.9" WCMX-FM, and "Rewind 103.5/104.3" WNND-FM/WODB-FM, Columbus, Ohio. As we first reported briefly in our "Behind the Microphone" section, Steele most recently was Top 40 Brand Manager and Operations Manager for Clear Channel San Diego. Now we have the news release from Saga's Columbus Radio Group. "We were looking for a seasoned leader who mentors, coaches, and grows his people -- and we found all of that in Jimmy Steele," says Columbus Radio Group VP and General Manager Chris Forgy. "Jimmy had the trifecta," adds Saga EVP/Group PD Steve Goldstein. "He has a great blend of art and science, and he knows the market well. We are thrilled to bring his experience and expertise to our group." Steele tells us, "It's truly an honor to be joining this dynamic and talented team of broadcasters. I have respected Ed Christian, Steve Goldstein and Saga's vision for years. I am looking forward with excitement to being able to work closely with VP/GM Chris Forgy, Steve and the talented team in place to grow our dynamic brands in the Columbus market!" Steele has also programmed stations in Madison, Wisconsin; Buffalo; and Nashville. Veteran Minneapolis Radio Host Tony Fly Gets TV Show 
Longtime Twin Cities radio personality Tony Fly is set to debut a new daily TV show dubbed “On the Fly” on "My29" WFTC-TV, Minneapolis. Fly most recently was morning drive host at Hot AC "K-Twin" KTWN-FM. The new TV show is a one-hour daily entertainment program featuring Fly, "Fox 9" Traffic Reporter Kelsey Soby and former "K-Twin" producer Dan Edwards. The program will air weekdays at 11pm and again at 8am the following morning. Produced locally by WFTC-TV, "On The Fly" will highlight "what's hot and happening that day in pop culture, from Hollywood to the Twin Cities." WFTC-TV General Manager Carol Rueppel tells us, “On The Fly showcases the humor and spontaneity of a radio talk show with the visual impact of television. The ensemble of Tony, Kelsey, and Dan will provide unique commentary on the big talkers of the day.” Fly has been a Minneapolis radio voice since the early 1990s, starting at KDWB-FM. He also hosted "The Tony Fly Morning Show" on Radio One's "B96" KTTB-FM. 'Mancow' Co-Stars in History Channel Series 
TRN-FM syndicated Erich "Mancow" Muller will co-star with his brother Mark Muller in the History Channel's new series, "God, Guns and Automobiles" premiering Monday, July 8. Described as an American reality show, the series revolves around the Muller families and an auto dealership named Max Motors. Set in the tiny rural town of Butler, Missouri, Mark Muller makes car deals the old fashioned way. No trade or sales stunt, no matter how outrageous or controversial, is off the table if it can help him compete against the big city dealers. Mancow portrays his business partner -- joining the show with an oddball staff that works the deals. The Mullers take pride in Max Motors as the embodiment of the values and spirit of the heartland of America. WEEI-FM/Boston Donates 1,000 Reds Tickets to First Responders 
As a way of saying "thanks" to the many first responders who came to the aid of those affected by the Boston Marathon bombing in April, Entercom's Sports Talk WEEI-FM (and its associated network of stations) -- along with the Boston Red Sox and Major League Baseball -- donated 1,000 tickets to this week’s Boston Red Sox game versus the Toronto Blue Jays. They tell us, "These groups and individuals will include those who have displayed acts of heroism and valor, and have shown us examples of courage.” Tickets were distributed to First Responders including the Boston Police, Fire and EMS workers; the Boston Athletic Association; the communities of Dorchester, Arlington and Medford; the Massachusetts State Police; the Massachusetts National Guard; Boston area hospitals. Says Entercom Boston VP and Market Manager Jeff Brown, “On behalf of Entercom and WEEI, we send our deepest appreciation for the bravery and service of these responders during our city’s time of need. We are forever grateful for their heroism and hope this small gesture brings a smile to some faces across Boston on Thursday evening.” Conclave to Feature Performance by Recording Artist Keaton Simons 
The Conclave's first-ever "Gameday" -- a day devoted entirely to sports -- will wrap up with a performance by Best Revenge Records artist Keaton Simons, at a reception at the KTWN, Minneapolis, studios July 19 just before the Minnesota Twins versus Cleveland Indians game at Target Field. The Conclave tells us that the Los Angeles Times termed Simons "a triple threat" captivating audiences with an authentic voice, compelling and soul-baring songs, and a true command of both acoustic and electric guitars in every genre. Simons’ second album "Beautiful Pain" is co-produced by Mikal Blue who has also worked with Colbie Caillat and One Republic, and includes songs co-written with friends and peers including Jason Mraz and others. Says Conclave Executive Director Bob Shannon, “‘No Rain in the Forecast’ is the tune I’m singing. His appearance at the KTWN rooftop party during Conclave 38 will be a night of great music, baseball and beer. How could it get better than that?” (As always, thanks to Harv Blain for keeping us posted on news from The Conclave.)
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Program Director Paul Kriegler and several other staffers are out at Shamrock Communications Tulsa at Alternative "Z-104.5 The Edge" KMYZ-FM and Classic Hits "94.1 The Sound" KTSO-FM as the Stephens Media Group prepares to take control of the cluster. Staffers ousted include Production Director and on-air host Randy Young and KTSO-FM morning host Jason Taylor ... Chicago's Talk WGN-AM announces that their David Kaplan will be hosting a new 7pm-12midnight show, replacing both "WGN Sports Night" and Turi Ryder's talk show. Earlier this week we reported that "market vet Turi Ryder is leaving Tribune Talk WGN-AM, Chicago, where she's hosted late nights since January. She revealed her exit on the air to surprised listeners, saying that management told her that they are taking the station in a 'different direction' and thanked management for the 'classy' move of allowing her to do a last show," which aired Thursday night. "The David Kaplan Show" will be entirely sports-focused, according to WGN-AM ... "98 Rock" WIYY-FM, Baltimore, morning host Mickey Cucchiella exits, telling listeners he's dealing with depression after the recent death of his mother and divorce from his wife ... Former Denver Talk KHOW-AM host Peter Boyles joins crosstown Salem "News Talk 710" KNUS-AM for mornings beginning Monday (July 1).
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From Mark Harris Broadcast Consulting
Friday, June 28, 2013
Friday's Radio & Media News - June 28, 2013
It’s one key reason so many companies are rushing to offer digital 'services' to complement their advertising offerings. Six years ago local businesses spent 10% more on advertising than they did on promotions. Last year, they spent a stunning 81% more on promotions. Even as local advertising bounces back at a rate of 8% this year, the $101 billion they’re likely to spend will still be 16 % less than what it was in 2007. Meanwhile, local promotions is forecast to be 33% more than it was in 2007, reaching $176 billion this year." Borrell says that's not bad news for advertising providers such as radio. "It’s not accurate to say that traditional advertising is getting dumped for a more attractive form of direct-to-consumer marketing. In fact, advertising is the fan to the flames of store promotions. Local advertising expenditures have been on the rebound since 2010. But, businesses are spending a lot more on promotions. Instead of carving it from traditional ad budgets, the money appears to be coming from things like slimmer profit margins (taken through steeper discounting), the salaries of former workers who used to handle marketing tasks, and from agency fees, printing budgets and postage." They conclude that "it’s clear that something monumental has happened with marketing expenditures, and it’s logical to credit interactive media as the change agent. New patterns in marketing create opportunities for those who are aware of them -- but only if they act. Local marketers can’t continue to do business the old way and expect to survive."
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