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CBS Corporation Reports Second Quarter Revenues Up 11%, 
CBS Corporation reports its highest ever quarterly profits as second quarter revenues increased 11% to $3.7 billion from $3.33 billion in 2012. The growth was led by a 22% increase in content licensing and distribution revenues for digital streaming and international syndication. Second quarter Local Broadcasting revenues were down 1% to $698 million from $704 million in the year-ago period. Radio revenues remained flat from Q2 2012, "as the benefit of the new CBS Sports Radio Network was offset by the impact of radio station dispositions in 2012." CBS Corporation OIBDA increased 5% to $952 million from $911 million, "with growth in every segment." Operating income of $838 million increased 6% from $792 million in 2012. Net earnings from continuing operations were $476 million compared with $452 million in the year-ago period. "CBS's remarkable momentum continues to build," says CBS Corp. Executive Chairman Sumner Redstone. "This is a company built for long-term success, and I know Les and his team will continue to execute in the quarters and years to come." CBS Corp. President/CEO Leslie Moonves adds, "Double-digit revenue growth -- and the best quarterly profits we've ever had -- add up to a phenomenal quarter for CBS. This gives us great confidence in our future, and it's why we announced last week our largest increase ever to our share repurchase program. We remain committed to returning value to our shareholders, and we are certain we can deliver lucrative results for the remainder of this year, next year, and beyond as well." Journal Communications Q2 Radio Revenue Up 2.3% 
Journal Communications reports "a solid" second quarter of 2013. Overall revenue grew six percent from $95.5 million to $101.2 million, led by the company's broadcasting division, while its publishing division was down. Journal's broadcasting division, which includes radio, was up by 15.3 percent to $62.9 million. Within that, radio revenue was up 2.3 percent to $19.9 million, or 4.7 percent excluding political revenue. Local ad revenue, excluding political, was up five percent but national ad revenue, also excluding political, was down 4.9 percent. Publishing fell 6.5 percent to $38.4 million. "Journal Communications had a solid second quarter, driven by revenue gains in our broadcast group, as well as improving advertising revenue trends in publishing. Total revenue of $101.2 million was up 6 percent year over year," says Journal Communications Chairman and CEO Steven Smith. "Operating earnings decreased 2.6 percent as lower political revenue offset operating earnings increases in broadcast, driven by NewsChannel 5 in Nashville, as well as higher earnings at our daily newspaper. Within the Broadcast group, we continue to see core revenue growth. On a same-station basis and excluding political advertising, revenue was up six percent, with television up seven percent and radio up five percent." Nielsen Reports Second Quarter Revenue Up 3% 
Nielsen Holdings reports second quarter revenue up by three percent to $1.386 billion. Net income grew by 306 percent to $426 million, attributed to "a $303 million gain associated with the sale of our Expositions business in June 2013." Adjusted EBITDA was up 6% to $396 million. "Nielsen’s second quarter results reflect solid operating and financial performance," says Nielsen CEO David Calhoun. "With our continued focus on providing clients with innovative solutions, expansion into new geographies and our successful portfolio transformation, we are well positioned to execute our growth strategy and deliver greater value to shareholders over time." In announcing Q2 results, Nielsen notes that during the second quarter, on April 16, Arbitron’s shareholders voted to approve Nielsen's proposed acquisition of Arbitron. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory review. During a conference call, Calhoun said that he expects that the deal will be cleared by the FTC "by the end of August."
Arbitron Says Simulcast TLR to Be for Subscribers Only 
Arbitron announces that in 2014 it plans to make Total Line Reporting of simulcast stations available only to qualified Arbitron-subscribing radio stations in good standing. Currently, any simulcast station in a market, regardless of subscriber status, can request Total Line Reporting. Under the updated policy, only licensed subscribing radio stations in good standing will be eligible to combine audiences for their radio stations and Internet streams that are 100 percent simulcast on a single reporting line in Arbitron ratings reports and data services. Non-subscribing radio stations will be reported individually and will no longer be eligible to request TLR for 100 percent simulcasts. Arbitron's current plans call for the updated policy to become effective with the Winter 2014 survey in Diary markets and the January 2014 report period in PPM markets. Arbitron intends to review this plan in the fall of 2013 and may confirm or amend the implementation date. The requirement that radio stations must meet Minimum Reporting Standards to be included in Arbitron ratings reports remains unchanged. Licensed subscribers include stations that receive Arbitron data through the Radio Research Consortium. Qualified radio station subscribers, among other criteria, must subscribe to one or more of Arbitron's services for the applicable report period(s) and meet the TLR simulcast requirements. Each AM, FM, or HD-Multicast station and each Internet stream in the TLR combo must be a licensed subscriber, in good standing, to one of the above services in order to be eligible for TLR in any Arbitron service. Combos will receive TLR in any market in which the combo meets the applicable Minimum Reporting Standard. Clear Channel Norfolk Names Derrick Martin Market Manager 
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Norfolk announces that Derrick Martin has been named Market Manager, effective August 12. Martin will "oversee all station activities and events to help drive sales and achieve revenue targets, leveraging Clear Channel Norfolk's brands, audience and all assets to provide quality programming and create new revenue opportunities. He will be responsible for all aspects of the market's operations including all strategies, programming and sales initiatives for the entire Norfolk market." Says CCME Northeast SVP of Operations Kevin LeGrett, "I am thrilled to have Derrick Martin join our team of high-performers at CCME Norfolk. Derrick has excelled throughout his career and I am excited to see the results he will bring in growing our audience, revenues, exceptional talent while implementing superior initiatives." Martin began his radio career in 1996 as a Account Executive at Clear Channel Memphis stations KJMS-FM and KWAM-AM. He later went on to serve as the Retail Sales Manager for two Clear Channel Detroit stations. In 2006, Martin joined Radio One Atlanta as the Interactive General Sales Manager. He will join the Norfolk market from Clear Channel St. Louis where he's been GSM since 2008. "One of the great things about working for Clear Channel Media and Entertainment is the company's commitment to growing talent and rewarding opportunity from within," says Martin. "I am very excited to join the Norfolk team." Greater Media Promotes Jake McCann to Detroit Director of Sales 
Greater Media promotes Jake McCann to Director of Sales for its Detroit stations -- Rock WRIF-FM, Classic Rock WCSX-FM and WMGC-FM. McCann will begin his new position August 12, moving from Philadelphia where he's GSM for Sports Talk WPEN-FM and Classic Rock WMGK-FM. He's been with Greater Media since 2006, when he joined the company from Comcast. Greater Media Detroit Market Manager Steve Chessare tells us, "Jake is the right person to lead our three station sales operation in the Motor City. His passion, dedication and leadership are exactly what we need to take our three outstanding radio properties to the next level." Says McCann, "I'm excited to continue my career with Greater Media by joining Steve Chessare and the Greater Media Detroit team. They have great heritage radio stations that the city loves! I will miss the talented people I've had the opportunity to work with at Greater Media Philadelphia and the great friends I have made over the past seven years." McCann's August start in Detroit should be time for the flip of WMGC-FM from AC to Sports Talk. His experience in sales for Philadelphia's "97.5 The Fanatic" WPEN-FM would be a valuable asset to the Detroit cluster. Red Zebra Sells Norfolk Sports Talk Duo 
Red Zebra Broadcasting is selling Sports Talk "102.1 The Game" WXTG-FM and simulcast sister WXTG-AM, Norfolk, Virginia, to Local Voice Media, an investor group that includes musician and Williamsburg native Bruce Hornsby and Blue Heron Capital of Richmond. Formerly Davis Media, Local Voice plans to use the signals to extend the reach of its Triple-A "92.3 The Tide" WTYD-FM, Deltaville, Virginia. Financial terms aren’t immediately disclosed. A flip to the Adult Alternative "Tide" will occur soon on WXTG-AM-FM under an LMA. Coverage for "The Tide" will expand to a range from northern North Carolina to just south of Richmond. "It will be great to finally hear Lyle Lovett and the Avett Brothers in Norfolk and Virginia Beach," says Hornsby, who will be the voice of the station. WXTG-AM-FM will continue to carry Washington Nationals and Redskins play-by-play through the current seasons. Local Voice Media specializes in radio and local newspaper combos in Wilmington, NC, and Columbia, SC. The deal includes the two stations, seven acres of property and a tower. Red Zebra, owned by Washington Redskins owners Dan Snyder, continues to own and operate Sports Talk stations in Washington and Richmond. Kevin Gardner Named KRNB-FM/Dallas Program Director 
As we first reported briefly in our BTM section, veteran programmer Kevin Gardner is appointed Program Director of Urban AC "Smooth R&B 105.7" KRNB-FM, Dallas, effective August 18. "We are so fortunate to have found someone who is experienced, instinctive, creative and constantly growing stronger," says Service Broadcasting Dallas Operations Manager Michael Erickson. "Kevin's character, leadership and commitment to the community made him stand out from the competition and an ideal fit to help move our company forward." Previously, Gardner was Program Director of Cox Media Group's "Star 94" WCFB-FM, Orlando, from 2005 to 2011. He joined WCFB-FM from Radio One's Urban Oldies WJMO-FM and Urban AC WKJS-FM, Richmond, Virginia, where he was Operations Manager and Program Director. "I am eager to be joining the Service Broadcasting family," says Gardner. "Michael Erickson, along with Hyman Childs and Geo Cook, have built two very strong radio brands in Dallas. I'm looking forward to working with them, the talented on-air staff and all of the passionate people who contribute daily to making Smooth R&B the number one UAC station in the market." Gardner's resume also includes time in Tallahassee, Florida, at several stations, and at WDAS-FM in Philadelphia. He's previously been with Cumulus and Beasley in addition to Radio One and Cox. Senate Committee Approves Tom Wheeler FCC Chairman Nomination 
The Senate Commerce Committee has approved Tom Wheeler's nomination to be the new FCC Chairman. That clears the way for the nomination to go to the full Senate, where it's expected to eventually be approved. There's no timetable set for actual Senate confirmation, but it's not likely to happen until after the traditional Congressional recess in August. The Commerce Committee approval came Tuesday without waiting for a nomination for the open Republican Commissioner seat at the FCC. The full Senate though is expected to deal with both nominations at the same time. Sen. John Thune (R-SD), a member of the Commerce Committee, says the Republican nomination is currently "pending at the White House" and he's hopeful it will be received "very soon." There are reports that Congressional staffer Michael O'Rielly is now the front-runner for the nomination for the open Commissioner seat. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) was one of two republicans to vote against the Senate Commerce Committee approval of Wheeler's nomination to chair the Commission, raising concerns over political advertising sponsor disclosure rules and indecency. He's threatening to block Wheeler's nomination in the full Senate. Cruz and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) also wanted the committee to delay acting on Wheeler's nomination until a Republican Commissioner nomination was received, but Commerce Committee Chairman Jay Rockefeller said that was not happening on his committee. "Unfortunately, the FCC has been without a Chairman for more than two months now, even though this Committee considered Tom Wheeler's nomination to be Chairman more than a month ago," said Rockefeller. "I said this at his nomination hearing, and I will say it again: Tom Wheeler is well-qualified to be FCC Chairman, with a distinguished career in the communications industry." The Commission is currently operating with just three Commissioners -- Acting Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn, Jessica Rosenworcel, and Ajit Pai. FCC Reform Bill Introduced In Senate 
Sen. Dean Heller (R-NV) has introduced a version of an FCC reform bill in the Senate -- the FCC Consolidated Reporting Act. Says Helle, “The reports Congress has mandated the FCC to produce over the years are rarely submitted on time and do not always reflect the current state of competition in the marketplace adequately. Democrats and Republicans agree that it makes sense to consolidate these reports and issue them at one time in the beginning of a new Congress. Such a move will reduce reporting burdens on the FCC and private industry while giving a cleaner picture of competition in the marketplace. Chairman Walden and I are committed to working across the aisle and with the Federal Communication Commission as we advocate for this common sense reform in our respective Chambers of Congress." Previous attempts at FCC reform legislation introduced by Heller have failed in the Senate. Univision's Uforia to Stream Emmis 'Hot 97'/NYC, 'Power 106'/LA 
Univision Communications signs a partnership with Emmis Communications to stream Rhythmic CHRs "Hot 97" WQHT-FM, New York, and "Power 106" KPWR-FM, Los Angeles, on Univision's Uforia music app. Univision Radio President Jose Valle tells us, "The Uforia music app is curating some of the best content there is on the market and being able to stream the two leading hip hop stations in the U.S. will not only resonate with our audience but solidify our position as Hispanic America's home of audio entertainment. Emmis Chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan adds, "Univision Radio's involvement and recent growth in the digital arena is impressive and we are excited for the opportunity to work with such a forward-thinking company to bring our radio stations to a whole new audience via the Uforia music app." The app's stated purpose is to "expand Univision's efforts to provide Hispanic audiences with high-quality content across all media platforms." Uforia users are able to stream 60 of Univision Radio's most popular stations from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Additionally, more than 13 exclusive digital-only channels are also available for streaming including H2O Music Festival, Dulce, Romantica, La Chula, El Sancho and Planeta Rock. Fans looking for a more tailored experience, we're told, can create their own custom radio stations, "tapping into a library of more than 20 million songs across deep Latin genres." The Uforia app also offers a friend-sourcing social feature enabling easy sharing via Facebook. NuVoodoo Media Promotes Rob Magaziner to Lead Affiliate Sales 
Media research and marketing company NuVoodoo Media Services promotes affiliate sales executive and network radio veteran Rob Magaziner to lead NuVoodoo's direct sales of customized research and marketing solutions to radio and TV outlets. The announcement comes just as NuVoodoo launches its new national syndicated music research product, RealResearch, in the CHR-Top40 format on August 1. Magaziner, who serves client partners through his Central New Jersey-based Centerpiece Media Group, has deep experience in affiliate sales in Sports and News Talk radio. He's also managed business operations and affiliate sales at networks including Westwood One, the CBS Radio Network, United Stations, Unistar, CBS Radio News, CNN Radio, NBC News Radio, The Wall Street Journal Radio Network, CNBC Business Radio and Marketwatch. Says NuVoodoo CEO Carolyn Gilbert, "At NuVoodoo, we work with the very best, and Rob Magaziner certainly fits into that category. He is a valuable addition to our affiliate relations team and he will ensure that our clients receive impeccable service that is fast, responsive and unmatched in the industry. Rob has a vast network of relationships that will help us to reach and serve more stations better with our customized programming and marketing intelligence." Magaziner adds, "I'm so proud to work with Carolyn Gilbert and the amazing team she has assembled. There's an audible buzz in the industry about NuVoodoo, and for good reason. It's such a smart, forward-thinking company, and they're doing some incredible new things in media research and data-driven marketing. Together, we are very focused on finding specific solutions and creating the right approach for each station and market." Joe Namath Joins Sports USA for Podcast 
NFL Hall of Fame quarterback and sports icon Joe Namath will join Sports USA for the 2013 season with an exclusive weekly football podcast. Namath will analyze all things football beginning in mid-August and will continue through Super Bowl XLVIII. "It doesn't get bigger than Joe Namath," says Sports USA President Bob Moore. "Joe is extremely passionate about football and his insights are amazing." Namath tells us, "I'm thrilled to join the Sports USA Team with my new weekly podcast. I look forward to expressing my opinions on both the NFL and College Football each week from the beginning of the season all the way through the Super Bowl." Namath became a football icon in the 1960's with the New York Jets after an impressive college career under Alabama's Paul "Bear" Bryant. Upon his arrival in New York, Namath was immediately dubbed "Broadway Joe," for his many appearances and endorsements. On the field, Namath's "guarantee" in winning Super Bowl III changed the landscape of the NFL forever. Namath's AFL Jets shocked the world on January 12, 1969 by defeating the NFL's Baltimore Colts 16-7.
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio KBZD-FM, Amarillo, Texas, flips to Hot AC "Fun 99.7" from an all divas format to which it flipped from Classic Country just a month ago, a year after going from a Tejano format, which aired for five years, to Classic Country ... Eagle Communications AC "Q103.5" KQLA-FM, Ogden, Kansas, flips to "Q Country 103.5" after several days of stunting with Christmas music in July ... Operations Manager Steve Harris exits Radio One Cincinnati. His exit coincides with the flip of Sports Talk "The Fan" on WCFN-FM to Urban Oldies "Old School 100.3" -- but as OM he also oversaw Urban "101 The Wiz" WIZF-FM and Talk WDBZ-AM. Harris, though, previously was Senior Program Director for ESPN Radio ... Classic Hits "K-Earth 101" KRTH-FM, Los Angeles, names Dave Mason Assistant PD, effective September 4. Mason currently is the PD and midday host of Classic Hits "The Walrus" XHPRS-FM, San Diego ... "ESPN New York 98.7 FM" WEPN-FM, New York, is expanding its reach, and will be heard on Long Island's WLIR-FM from 12noon to 12midnight on weekdays beginning August 5.
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From Mark Harris Broadcast Consulting
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Wednesday's Radio & Media News - July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Tuesday's Radio & Media News - July 30, 2013
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Richard Bressler Named President and CFO of CC Media Holdings and Clear Channel Communications, and CFO of Clear Channel Outdoor 
CC Media Holdings today announced that media and finance executive Richard Bressler will become President and Chief Financial Officer of CC Media Holdings and Clear Channel Communications, and CFO of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, reporting to Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman, effective immediately. "Bressler, who has served as CFO of Time Warner and Viacom and Managing Director at Thomas H. Lee Partners, possesses wide-ranging experience and expertise in the media, entertainment, digital and out-of-home businesses as well as an extensive background in public companies, private equity and venture capital investing," says the announcement. As a member of Thomas H. Lee Partners, one of the two private equity firms that completed a multi-billion-dollar acquisition of Clear Channel in 2008, Bressler has been a Director of CC Media Holdings and Clear Channel Communications since then, positions he will continue to hold, and has been intimately involved in the company as a member of the CC Media Holdings board's operating committee. As President of CC Media Holdings and Clear Channel Communications, Bressler will work closely with Pittman "on the further development of strategies and initiatives to ensure that Clear Channel capitalizes on its unique assets." In his capacity as CFO, Bressler will succeed Tom Casey, who served as EVP and CFO of CC Media Holdings, Clear Channel Communications, and Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, from 2010.
'Piolin'-Univision Parting Reportedly Follows Sex Harassment Claims 
Spanish-language radio personality Eddie "Piolin" Sotelo's mysterious sudden departure from Univision reportedly came after a performer on his nationally syndicated morning show accused him of sexual harassment. The Los Angeles Times reports that's according to documents they've obtained. Alberto "Beto" Cortez, a writer, producer and performer on the popular "Piolin por la Manana" radio program, alleged that his boss Sotelo was "physically, sexually and emotionally harassing" him for a three-year period ending last January. The claim was made in an April 16 letter from Cortez attorney Robert Clayton to executives Roberto Llamas and Jose Valle of Univision Communications. The L.A. Times also reports that in addition to the claim of sexual harassment, Cortez alleged that Sotelo ordered members of his radio production team to falsify letters in support of a high-profile campaign for congressional immigration reform, an issue that Sotelo championed on his program. Sotelo's attorney, Jeffrey Spitz, said the allegations were false and motivated by money. "A disgruntled, troubled employee has made malicious and false claims about Eddie Sotelo," Spitz says in a statement. "This was done as part of a demand for money." He adds, "The employee worked with Eddie for more than a decade. The employee's allegations of harassment and falsification of immigration letters are pure fiction intended to gain a financial settlement." Neither Cortez nor Sotelo could be reached for comment, says the Times. Univision executives declined to comment.
Borrell Associates: Radio to See 15.9% Auto Ad Decline 
Borrell Associates is forecasting an increase in automotive advertising spending -- but not so for radio. According to Borell's "2013 Automotive Advertising Outlook" report, auto ad dollars will be moving from radio and other traditional media to online advertising. Auto advertising is predicted to be a $32.8 billion business in 2013, up two percent from 2012, but with much of that money headed to online and mobile outlets. Borrell is predicting the category will see an 18.7 percent rise in automotive ads this year. "Digital media has reshaped the long-touted car-buying funnel. It’s been compressed it into a shot glass where researching a purchase has become so easy that consumers conduct their search to just a few months -- and do nearly all of it online," says Borrell EVP Kip Cassino. Borrell predicts that within five years, annual spending on digital video advertising will rise from $2 billion to more than $9 billion, "most certainly at the expense of local radio and TV," according to Cassino. "Automotive advertising continues to be in perhaps the deepest transition of all local advertising categories," writes Cassino. "The first wave of migration involved print classified listings, which played a role at the lower end of the buying funnel now dominated by digital media; the se Borell's "2013 Automotive Advertising Outlook" shows newspapers are getting hit hardest, with auto advertising down 29.3% while broadcast TV is forecast to be down 16.7% this year. Radio is forecast to see a 15.9% decline. But in a "big surprise," direct mail will see the top increase, up 22.9%. Online and mobile advertising are forecast to be up 18.7%. Cumulus Reports Q2 Net Revenue Up 3.1% 
Cumulus Media reports its second quarter net revenue grew by 3.1 percent, from $281 million to $289.7 million year-to-year. The company says, “This increase was attributable to a $4.3 million increase in local advertising revenue, a $3.9 million increase in revenue related to digital initiatives and a $2.8 million increase in revenue due to the addition of stations in the Bloomington and Peoria markets we acquired from Townsquare Media in July 2012. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $2.3 million in cyclical political revenue.” Says Cumulus Chairman and CEO Lew Dickey, “This was a solid quarter earmarked by revenue growth and strong expense management. Our targeted growth initiatives are ramping on schedule and our merger integration and problem market turnarounds are largely complete.” RTDNA/Hofstra Survey: Radio News Minority Representation Down Slightly 
The percentage of minority representation in radio newsrooms is down slightly from 11.7% in 2012 to 10.9% this year -- still significantly higher than 2010's 5.0% but short of 1995's peak of 14.7%, according to the latest RTDNA/Hofstra University Annual Survey. The latest release from that survey focuses on minority and female employment in the newsroom. "The percentage of radio news departments with women rose by almost 8 points in the last year, but the percentage of women radio news directors and the percentage of women in the radio news workforce grew only slightly in the last year," writes Hofstra Professor Bob Papper. "Although the incidence of women news directors was almost identical between non-commercial and commercial stations, non-commercial stations were about twice as likely to have women on staff and had a lot more of them."
Radio One Cincy Ditches 'The Fan' - Launches 'Old School 100.3' 
After only seven months as Sports Talk "100.3 The Fan" Radio One's WCFN-FM, Cincinnati, returns to Urban Oldies as "Old School 100.3" featuring "back in the day jams from the 70s, 80s and 90s.” The new "Old School" will feature core artists such as Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Rick James, and Whitney Houston. The station had been “Mojo 100.3” with an Urban Oldies format until it began stunting last November, ahead of a January 2 flip to "The Fan" airing programming from the CBS Sports Radio network. The syndicated "Tom Joyner Morning Show" -- which the station carried as "Mojo" -- will return to 100.3 from sister Urban Talk WDBZ-AM. Radio One, we learn, decided "The Fan" was a failure and wasn't showing any growth, even after adding local morning and afternoon Sports Talk shows. The new "Old School" is online at OldSchoolCincy.com. Kidd Kraddick Had Enlarged Heart, 'Probably Died of Cardiac Arrest' 
A preliminary autopsy found that David "Kidd" Kraddick, a chain smoker, had an enlarged heart and three blocked coronary arteries that most likely led to an irregular heartbeat, and he probably died of cardiac arrest, according to the Jefferson Parish Deputy Coroner's office in Louisiana. Deputy Coroner Dr. Granville Morse said Kraddick, 53, became ill during his Kidd's Kids charity golf tournament Saturday outside New Orleans, then collapsed while being driven to an emergency room. Morse added that doctors at the nearby Ochsner Medical Center campus, a five-minute drive from the golf tournament, "did really just a heroic effort to resuscitate him. They really pulled out the stops. Unfortunately, they couldn't get him back." Morse says the final autopsy report will not be complete until toxicology tests come back, but Kraddick's heart was enlarged by cardiac disease, and three coronary arteries ranged from 40 to 80 percent blocked. Those conditions can lead to an irregular heartbeat and collapse. Kraddick, who would have turned 54 in August, may not have known he had cardiac disease. Dr. Jeffrey Schussler, an interventional cardiologist at Baylor Heart and Vascular Hospital at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas and professor of medicine at Texas A & M speculates that Kraddick's heavy smoking habit could have been responsible for the radio personality's untimely death. Says Schussler, "Smoking is the number one risk factor for heart disease. Smoking puts you at a greater risk for heart disease than it does for cancer. Usually when someone that young, in his 40s or 50s, has a heart attack, it's because of smoking." Rush Limbaugh: 'Nothing Is Going to Change' 
Rush Limbaugh says the latest report that Cumulus may drop his show from all of their stations is only "a public business negotiation." As we reported Monday, Politico said "Cumulus has decided that it will not renew its contracts" with Limbaugh or Sean Hannity after negotiations between Cumulus and Clear Channel's Premiere Networks broke down due to disagreements over the cost of the distribution rights. Limbaugh wasted no time addressing that news on his show. "I want to get something out of the way here at the top. There was another Politico story that ran last night about this program and the radio stations that it is on, and is going to be on, in the future. And someday, someday I am looking so forward to being able to detail all of this for you, but suffice it to say nothing is gonna happen that you will notice. Nothing is going to change. You are gonna be able to get this radio program on as many, if not more, radio stations down the road than it’s on now, and what you’re being treated to is just a public business negotiation. Negotiations have been taken public by one side of this. I thought it was done. I thought it was over with. And, folks, I would love… I mean, I love inside baseball stuff, and I would love to pass this on, but I must use proper business restraint here. But I just want to assure you, everything’s cool, and, as always, what’s on the table for this program is growth." Art Bell Returns to Radio -- On Satellite 
Sirius XM announces it will be the exclusive home to legendary radio personality Art Bell, marking the return of the late night host to radio with a new, expanded live, nightly call-in show on which he will explore the paranormal, unexplained and more with expert guests and listeners nationwide. Art Bell's "Dark Matter" will debut in the fall on Indie, SiriusXM channel 104, airing nightly from 10pm-1am ET. Bell will host the show from his home studio in Pahrump, Nevada -- near the storied Area 51 -- "opening the phones lines and inviting listeners and expert guests to join his uncensored, unscripted nightly conversation about a wide variety of topics including: the paranormal, near-death experiences, quantum physics, extraterrestrial life and the unusual." A 2008 inductee to the National Radio Hall of Fame, Bell was one of the top five most listened-to talk hosts in America when he was syndicated weeknights from 1993-2003. "SiriusXM is the perfect fit for me and my new show Art Bell's Dark Matter," says Bell. "Though invisible, dark matter accounts for gravitational forces observed in the universe -- expect these forces to be at work in the uncensored, unrestricted creative arena of satellite radio, a medium with truly extraterrestrial reach." Bell started in radio at age thirteen when he became a licensed amateur radio operator, a license and interest that he holds to this day. He hosted radio shows while serving in the Air Force in Vietnam, became an engineer when he returned to the U.S., and returned to the air with a late night show on a Las Vegas radio station -- a show that ultimately became his nationally syndicated show "Coast to Coast AM." Bell left that show in 2002.
Angelica Balderas Moves from Adelante to Entravision: 
Entravision Communications announces the appointment of Angelica Balderas to the position of SVP of Integrated Marketing Solutions for the Sacramento market. Balderas was most recently VP/DOS for Adelante Media Group, where she oversaw all of the company's local, national, network, and digital sales efforts. At Entravision, Balderas will be responsible for overseeing sales efforts on Entravision's radio, digital and mobile properties and marketing services in the Sacramento market. With more than 24 years of experience in national and local sales, Balderas has worked with national advertisers and their agencies to execute advertising and promotional programs across the U.S. and has received a number of honors, including the 2013 Medallas de Cortez award for excellence in Spanish radio marketing. "We are pleased to welcome Angelica to our growing team of seasoned radio executives in the Sacramento market," says Entravision EVP of Integrated Marketing Solutions/Western Region Karl Meyer. "Angelica’s appointment demonstrates Entravision’s commitment to further strengthen our sales force to maximize marketing and advertising opportunities for our clients. Angelica possesses significant expertise in both local and national sales and I am confident she will be an asset to our clients and further enhance our platforms." American Public Media Sells Greenspring Media Publishing 
American Public Media Group is selling its print division, Greenspring Media Group, to Hour Media for an undisclosed price. American Public Media Group is the owner of Minnesota Public Radio, Southern California Public Radio, and Classical South Florida. Greenspring Media Group publishes Minnesota Monthly, Midwest Home, RealFood, Drinks and "Where Twin Cities," as well as other magazines and travel guides. It also holds several annual events in the Twin Cities. Publisher Steve Fox will retire with the sale. MPR and Greenspring say that little else will change at the division. Regional Media Advisors represented American Public Media Group in the sale of Greenspring Media Group to Hour Media Syndicator FoxRock Communications Closing 
Syndicator FoxRock Communications is closing its doors after almost five years, says founder Matt Smith. The Illinois-based program service was launched by the Chicago and syndication radio veteran in late 2008 after his exit from Syndication Networks, offering shows like the Rock series "Cranked Up Live" and "The Metal Shop Live" and the public affairs show "Positive Parenting Radio." Says Smith, "FoxRock Communications is shutting down simply because the traditional model for syndication is no longer viable for me. The combination of the underfunded clients, unrealistic expectations of those clients, the fact that two major ownership groups are not allowing their stations to carry outside programming on barter, demanding cash for clearance -- actually many radio stations cutting back on barter." Smith's company is not to be confused with Irish broadcaster George Hook's company FoxRock Communications Ltd. Smith indicates his next job will probably be outside of radio, and says, "The idea of not being in this industry after 15 years is a bit odd.”
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Veteran programmer Kevin Gardner is appointed Program Director of Urban AC "Smooth R&B 105.7" KRNB-FM, Dallas, effective August 18 ... Journal Broadcast Group Boise names radio veteran Ron Harris cluster Operations Manager overseeing Active Rock "100.3 The X" KQXR-FM, Triple-A "94.9 The River" KRVB-FM, Classic Rock KJOT-FM, and Classic Hits "107.1 K-Hits" KTHI-FM. Harris most recently was Operations Manager at Cherry Creek Radio in the Tri-Cities, Washington, market ... Cox AC "B98.5" WSB-FM, Atlanta, names Tripp West as the new night host. West will also serve as News Talk WSB-AM's overnight operator. West has been in the market since 1997, most recently with crosstown WYAY-FM before its flip to News Talk ... Natalie Randall joins Journal's CHR-Top40 "Power 96.5" KSPW-FM, Springfield, Missouri, as Program Director, arriving from Midwest Communications' CHR-Top40 "100.7 Mix FM" WMGI-FM, Terre Haute, Indiana, where she was Brand Manager and an on-air host ... Program Director and morning host Michael "Mike Logan" Czarnecki exits CHR-Top40 "107.5 Kiss FM" KIFS-FM, Medford, Oregon.
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While the percentage of radio news departments with women rose by almost 8 points year-to-year, the percentage of women radio news directors and women in the radio news workforce grew only slightly. An overwhelming majority (89.1%) of radio news people are Caucasian, up slightly from 88.3% in 2012 and down from previous years, while only 2.3% are African-American, down from 5.2%. Hispanic representation was up from 4.6% to 5.7%; Asian-American (1.3%) and Native American (1.6%) percentages showed gains. Among radio news directors, 90.4% are Caucasian, down slightly; 1.9% are African-American, off from 3.5% last year; 3.8% are Hispanic, up from 2.3%; the percentage of Asian-American news directors dropped by half to 0.6%, and Native American representation rose from 1.7% to 3.2%. Some 20.6% of radio news directors are women, and 34.2% of the radio news work force is female. Major market stations have far more female representation (48.2%, compared with 29.6% in large markets, 27.6% in medium markets, and 20.3% in small markets). The average radio news director has been at his or her station for over 10 years (10.5), although the median was six, says the report. Monday, July 29, 2013
Monday's Radio & Media News - July 29, 2013
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Morning Show Team Shares Feelings on Loss of Kidd Kraddick 
A Monday morning broadcast of the "Kidd Kraddick in the Morning" show featured a tribute to Kidd, who suddenly died over the weekend. With the future of the show without Kraddick yet to be determined, this week (for the most part) a series of "Best of" shows are being aired. But today a live segment featured co-hosts/sidekicks in a tear-filled, heartfelt series of reflections of their friend and leader. Singer Gavin DeGraw began the live tribute, recalling that Kidd had been such a personal friend and mentor to him and so many artists, and then offering an acoustic version of his 2005 single "Chariot." The song, from a 2003 album, has previously been described by DeGraw as "a metaphorical vehicle for getting to a place in your mind that is a more broken down and laid back. It's somewhere to be just for a moment--instead of being wrapped up and living wherever you're living and consumed with what you're doing. It's a place to release and chill out." Then "Kidd Kraddick in the Morning" sidekick Kellie Rasberry told listeners, "We don't really know what we're gonna say here." He added that the crew is "beyond devastated" and that Kidd Kraddick's death was a shock. Rasberry also rejected rumors that the crew had been hiding information about his health. "Everybody has questions, and we don't have any answers." Big Al Mack said, "We're just here to talk." Rasberry said Kidd spent his last night shooting craps and making videos on the streets of New Orleans, then became ill before the golf tournament the next morning. Jenna Owens remembered learning golf from Kraddick and bonding with him over the sport over the years, saying his last words to her were "great shot," watching her swing on the golf course. Jose "J-Si" Chavez said he saw Kraddick as a father figure and fought off tears recalling that Kraddick's last words to him were "I'm so proud of you." Then, "Psycho Shanon" Murphy said Kraddick was "like a dad to me," but remembered that Kraddick's last words to her were to complain about the last song played on Friday's show. She called him a perfectionist but said he wanted to give back to people and have the show be the best it could be. Murphy, unsuccessfully fighting back tears, recalled Kraddick helping her financially through a family crisis. "There's just nobody else like him," said Murphy. They then went into an acoustic version of Bruno Mars' "Just The Way You Are" followed by Imagine Dragons' "Radioactive" before concluding the live segment. Kelly told listeners, "It will never be the same without Kidd and we don't know what the future holds but we have our memories of Kidd." The show continued with lots of memories and callers, plus some classic bits from past shows. Kelly ended the segment telling listeners they would let everyone know what was next as soon as they could but that they were going to take the rest of the week off, and that there would be "best of" programming airing. Politico: Cumulus Planning to Drop Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity
"In a major shakeup for the radio industry, Cumulus Media, the second-biggest broadcaster in the country, is planning to drop both Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity from its stations at the end of the year, an industry source told Politico on Sunday," reports Politico's Dylan Byers.
ASCAP Asks FCC to Deny Pandora Purchase of KXMZ-FM 
ASCAP is asking the FCC to deny Pandora's purchase of Hot AC KXMZ-FM, Box Elder-Rapid City, South Dakota, from Connoisseur Media. In a "Petition to Deny," ASCAP alleges that Pandora "is buying KXMZ for one reason – to argue that it is entitled to pay lower music performance royalties to composers, songwriters and lyricists for its billions of online-only internet music streams." In the filing ASCAP writes, "In its rush to implement its scheme, Pandora has overlooked certain basic Commission requirements. In the application to assign KXMZ’s license, Pandora has failed to fully disclose its ownership, and to adequately demonstrate that it complies with the Commission’s foreign ownership rules."
Matt Bell Named Clear Channel Lima-Marion Market Manager 
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Lima-Marion (Ohio) announces that Matt Bell has been named Market Manager, effective August 15. Bell will be "responsible for all aspects of the market's operations including all strategies, programming and sales initiatives for the entire Lima/Marion cluster. He will oversee all station activities and events to help drive sales and achieve revenue targets, leveraging Clear Channel's brands, audience and all assets to provide quality programming and create new revenue opportunities." Says CCME Northeast SVP of Operations Kevin LeGrett, "We are excited to bring Matt back to lead the Lima and Marion markets. He has a proven track record of motivating, leading and driving his teams to success. We are thrilled to have him take on this new role and focus on these local markets." Bell started his radio career in Lima as an Account Executive at WIMA-AM in October 2005 and was promoted to Local Sales Manager for WIMA-AM and WZRX-FM in 2006. In 2007 he was named Director of Sales for Lima and Findlay and later his responsibilities also included Marion. Most recently he's been in the Columbus market as a GSM. Bell tells us, "I'm so excited to take what I've learned in Columbus back home to Lima and Marion. I'm thankful for the opportunity to continue to grow my career in the market where it started. I'm confident I will lead our cluster to continued revenue growth and ratings success for years to come." Entercom Austin Launches 'The New 96.3 RnB' 
Entercom Austin launches Urban AC "The New 96.3 RnB." The 96.3 FM translator had previously been home to a simulcast of sister "Talk Radio 1370" KJCE-AM. Steve Harvey will be heard in mornings, with Snoop Daniel in afternoons. The rest of the on-air lineup will be announced soon. "Entercom couldn’t be more excited to launch the New 96.3 RnB here in Austin. For years, the African-American community has been underserved by radio in this market, and 96.3 RnB will super serve this vital and growing community," says Entercom Austin VP and Market Manager Alan Kirshbom. "We are launching 96.3 RnB to compete and win. Steve Harvey in the morning immediately gives our station credibility with listeners. His mass appeal will resonate not only with the African-American Community but bring in a wider audience over time." Says Steve Harvey, "I couldn't be more excited to launch in Austin, and I truly feel blessed to be a part of the New 96.3 RnB lineup. A special thanks to my friends at Entercom for their confidence in bringing 'The Steve Harvey Morning Show' to Austin. I look forward to waking up 96.3 R&B listeners every morning with inspiration and a whole lot of Funny!" Entercom also announces a lineup change for "Talk Radio 1370" KJCE-AM. "By bringing back 'America's Morning News' from 5am to 8am and moving Laura Ingraham to live programming from 8am to 11am, KJCE once again proves it is Austin's and Texas' Talk Station," says Kirshbom, who also announced Dennis Miller will return from 11am to 1pm, followed by Dave Ramsey and Sean Hannity. Boston Herald to Launch Internet Talk Radio Stream 
The Boston Herald is launching an online-only Talk stream -- "Boston Herald Radio" -- on August 5. It will feature 12 hours of talk every day streamed from the Boston Herald website according to Herald Publisher Patrick Purcell. Four shows will stream live from a new studio adjacent to the Herald’s newsroom located in Boston’s Seaport District. The shows are "Live from the Newsroom with Jeff Katz," Jaclyn Cashman and Hillary Chabot's "Morning Meeting", "The Michael Graham Show" and "Sports Town with Jon Meterparel and Jen Royle." Radio veteran Tom Shattuck is Executive Producer of Boston Herald Radio. Says Purcell, "Internet radio is exploding and it makes sense that the Herald rounds out our multimedia platform with talk radio programming. It's perfect synergy.
Bobby Bones Show Launches '30 Abes' Haiti Hunger Relief Campaign 
The Premiere Networks nationally syndicated Bobby Bones Show has launched a new public service campaign to benefit hunger relief in Haiti. The show has joined efforts with the non-profit group TeemHaiti and international hunger relief organization Numana to create "30 Abes" -- a special campaign and food packaging event in Nashville benefitting hunger relief in Haiti. On Saturday, September 28, 2013, thousands of volunteers will gather at Nashville Municipal Auditorium with the goal to package 500,000 meals to send to the Maison Des Enfants De Dieu orphanage in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. As extra motivation to meet their goal, the volunteers will also participate in a Guinness World Records official attempt for the title of "most hunger relief meals packaged in one hour" by a team. The current record of 479,034 was achieved by Numana, Volunteer Kansas and the Rotary Club of Wichita on February 16, 2013. The event will also benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee in Nashville as packaging volunteers will be encouraged to bring canned and boxed-food donations. "It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the problems in the world and our desire to do something that makes a difference," says Amy, co-host of the Bobby Bones Show. "What's great about 30 Abes is that it gives us all a place to start. The people receiving this food at the orphanage are very special to me, and knowing that they will be well fed, and even have plenty to share with their neighbors, warms my heart. We can make a difference together and I'm thankful to everyone who supports 30 Abes and this worthy cause in any way they can." FCC Protective Order Limits Access to MMTC Filing 
The FCC has issued a Protective Order to limit access to confidential information that the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council anticipates filing, as described in a July 25 letter to the Commission. The FCC said it finds that such information is necessary to develop a more complete record on which to base the Commission's decision in the 2010 Quadrennial Regulatory Review of the Broadcast Ownership Rules. "While we are mindful of the sensitive nature of such information, we are also mindful of the right of the public to participate in this proceeding in a meaningful way. We therefore will make such information available to participants in this proceeding, but only pursuant to a protective order," says the Commission. "We conclude that the procedures we adopt in this Protective Order give appropriate access to the public while protecting proprietary and confidential information from improper disclosure, and that the procedures thereby serve the public interest." Amber Perry Named Southern California Radio GSM Council Chair 
CBS Radio Classic Hits "K-Earth 101" KRTH-FM, Los Angeles, GSM Amber Perry will serve as Chairperson of the General Sales Managers Council for Southern California Radio members, according to the Southern California Broadcasters Association. "The General Sales Managers Council works closely with the SCBA regarding sales training, revenue opportunities, and research and advertiser recognition. We are excited to have Amber as the new chairperson in this important advisory role," says SCBA President Thom Callahan. Perry is a 15-year sales and sales management veteran and much of her time in radio has been with CBS Radio. "I am thrilled to be working more closely with the SCBA and with California business owners on the importance of a 360 degree marketing approach," says Perry. The General Sales Managers Council, formed in 1994, is an active advisory group consisting of SCBA member stations and their sales management teams.
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Scott Brady joins Hot AC WINC-FM, Winchester, Virginia, as Assistant PD/Music Director and midday host. Most recently, Brady was with Total Traffic and Hot AC "94.7 Fresh FM" WIAD-FM, Washington DC ... Longtime morning host Jay Michaels has exited AC WFAS-FM, in Westchester County, New York ... Allan Handelman returns to Curtis Media Greensboro as afternoon host on Talk WSJS-AM, starting August 5, replacing Bob Campbell, who exits. Handleman previously hosted afternoons on Curtis "FM Talk 101.1" WZTK-FM before it flipped to Regional Mexican "La Ley 101.1" WYMY-FM ... Tom "Jake" Jacobsen exits Country WGNA-FM, Albany, NY, as Brand Manager and afternoon host after more than six years to become General Manager of Pamal Broadcasting's five-station group in Glens Falls, NY, where he starts August 5 ... Boston market veteran George Knight is joining Emerson College Triple-A WERS-FM as morning host, effective August 1.
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"Cumulus has decided that it will not renew its contracts with either host, the source said, a move that would remove the two most highly rated conservative talk personalities from more than 40 Cumulus channels in major markets." According to the report, the decision comes after negotiations between Cumulus and Clear Channel's Premiere Networks broke down due to disagreements over the cost of the distribution rights, the source said. "Cumulus is known to drive a hard bargain on costs, and Clear Channel is known to seek top dollar for big names," writes Byers. But he notes, "As industry insiders caution, Cumulus and Clear Channel have come to the brink before during contract negotiations only to resume talks. But the source told Politico that Clear Channel was unlikely to reduce the cost for distribution rights to a level that would satisfy Cumulus." So far, there's no on-the-record comment from Cumulus or Premiere.
The petition adds, "Pandora's public statements lay bare its plot: to use KXMZ as a bargaining chip in Pandora's quest to obtain lower royalty rates for its online music streams. Given these brazen proclamations, there can be no doubt Pandora’s interests do not lie in providing service to Box Elder and the greater Rapid City area." The ownership disclosure allegations involve Pandora shareholders Wellington Management Company and William Blair and Company, which ASCAP alleges do not qualify as "investment companies" subject to a higher threshold for ownership disclosure but are, rather, "investment advisers" subject to the 5% threshold. ASCAP also alleges that information filed about attributable shareholder Crosslink Capital is incomplete, and that the structure of Wellington and William Blair's holdings might violate foreign ownership restrictions.
Boston Herald Radio will be fast-paced, uncensored, entertaining, completely interactive and, most important, very respectful to our listeners. We have a terrific team of seasoned hosts who are smart, respected and extremely versatile. They live in our communities and fully understand and appreciate the complexities of issues folks care about." We're told that the format of "Boston Herald Radio" programming will "welcome listener engagement," while offering listeners "a myriad of opportunities to fully participate in each show -- through social media, polls, email, live chats, tweets, blogs, and by calling a listener line. "The notion that folks will be encouraged to participate in our programming, and that their opinion really does matter, is practically unheard of in talk radio nowadays," says Boston Herald Editor-in-Chief Joe Sciacca. "Talk Show refugees: welcome to your new home at Boston Herald Radio."
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Weekend Update
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Kidd Kraddick Dies at 'Kidd's Kids' Charity Golf Event 
We were shocked to learn that David "Kidd" Kraddick, the host of the "Kidd Kraddick in the Morning" show heard on dozens of radio stations, died at a charity golf event near New Orleans. He was 53, and would have turned 54 on August 22. The Texas-based radio personality, whose program is syndicated by his own YEA Networks, died at his Kidd's Kids charity function in the New Orleans suburb of Gretna on Saturday, according to Champion Management publicist Ladd Biro who released a statement for YEA Networks. "He died doing what he loved," said Biro, who added he had no further details on the death. The website of Kraddick's flagship station, CHR-Top40 "106.1 Kiss FM" KHKS-FM, Dallas-Fort Worth, is featuring a "Remembering Kidd Kraddick" with the picture of the morning show host seen here. A series of additional photos are also offered, but the station provides no further details on Kraddick's passing. Reports from the market say that fans left flowers and condolences written on signs outside Kraddick's Dallas-area studio. The Associated Press reports that fans left online comments such as "morning drive to work in the Dallas traffic will not be the same with out your voice." Another quoted comment reads, "I don't know why his death is affecting me like this. I never met Kidd in person, but I have 'known' him for 15 years or more. He has brought a smile to my face every morning," Tasha Gillespie Sigler wrote Sunday on the Kidd's Kids Facebook page. The "Kidd Kraddick in the Morning" show is heard on more than 75 CHR-Top40 and Hot AC radio stations and is a leader among most-listened-to contemporary morning programs, says Biro. The radio program also is transmitted globally on the American Forces Radio Network, and the show's cast is also seen weeknights on the nationally syndicated TV show "Dish Nation," added the publicist. "All of us with YEA Networks and the 'Kidd Kraddick in the Morning' crew are heartbroken over the loss of our dear friend and leader," the network statement said. "Kidd devoted his life to making people smile every morning, and for 21 years his foundation has been dedicated to bringing joy to thousands of chronically and terminally ill children." The statement adds, "He died doing what he loved, and his final day was spent selflessly focused on those special children that meant the world to him."
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Friday, July 26, 2013
Friday's Radio & Media News - July 26, 2013
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'SoundExchange Praises Congressman Watt's Plan to Introduce a Performance Rights Bill' (Watt Says This One Is Different) 
"SoundExchange Praises Congressman Watt's Plan to Introduce a Performance Rights Bill" is the headline on a news release from SoundExchange. It says, "Congressman Mel Watt (D-NC), Ranking Democrat on the House Committee on the Judiciary's Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, announced his intent to introduce a bill that would require AM/FM radio broadcasters to pay recording artists and labels for the use of their songs played over-the-air." That sets the stage for this: "SoundExchange praises Congressman Watt for his leadership on behalf of music creators – particularly his continued effort to address the glaring lack of a sound recording performance right for AM/FM radio," says SoundExchange President and CEO Michael Huppe. "Congressman Watt has been a long-time champion for musicians' rights, and a true believer in the value music brings to our daily lives. Corporate radio – which earns $15 billion in annual revenue – doesn't pay a cent to the recording artists and labels who create the art that 'draws the crowd' to their airwaves. We are thankful for the Congressman's actions to remedy this injustice," he said. Of course, SoundExchange is "the nonprofit performance rights organization representing the entire recorded music industry. The organization collects statutory royalties on behalf of recording artists and master rights owners for the use of their content from satellite radio, Internet radio, cable TV music channels and other services that stream sound recordings."
Beasley Reports Second Quarter Net Revenue Up 8.3% 
Beasley Broadcast Group reports second quarter net revenue was up by 8.3 percent, from $24.8 million to $26.9 million year-to-year. For the first half of 2013, net revenue grew by 7.4 percent to $51.7 million. Station operating income fell by 0.7 percent to $10.1 million, while operating income was down 3.6 percent to $7.4 million and net income dropped 38.9 percent to $2.4 million. The declines, however, says Beasley, are in comparison to Q2 2012, when a pre-tax $0.8 million music license fee settlement with BMI had the effect of reducing station operating expenses in that quarter. Same station net revenue rose 4.2% in the quarter. Beasley says that increase "reflects strength in the company's Philadelphia, Fayetteville and Las Vegas market clusters, including the acquisition of KOAS-FM in Las Vegas during the 2012 third quarter." Chairman and CEO George Beasley tells us, "Beasley Broadcast Group generated its fourth consecutive period of top line growth as second quarter net revenue rose 8.3 percent and same station net revenue increased 4.2 percent. The increase in second quarter revenue reflects strong national and digital revenue growth which contributed to strength in several market clusters including Philadelphia, Las Vegas, Ft. Myers and Augusta. Overall, for our five markets that report to Miller Kaplan -- which represent approximately 75 percent of our total second quarter revenue - Beasley station clusters grew revenue by 8.4 percent while the total revenue for all reporting radio stations in these markets declined by 2.4 percent for the quarter. We attribute our out-performance to our organization-wide focus on strong core programming and targeted localism, both of which are contributing to the Company's ratings strength in its markets." He adds, "Notwithstanding the solid revenue growth, comparisons of our other financial metrics with the year-ago period are clouded due to the operating expense credit in last year's second quarter, and certain charges in the 2013 second quarter including a loss on the early extinguishment of debt and a prepayment fee incurred in connection with the refinancing of our second lien debt. In addition, recent initiatives in the areas of sales, programming and the further expansion of our digital offerings are expected to drive long-term revenue growth, but are resulting in higher operating expenses on a short-term basis." Fisher Communications Q2 Revenues and Income Down 
Fisher Communications reports second quarter revenues were flat at $42.1 million, with radio revenue off 2% to $5.4 million, blamed on "market softness." Radio cash flow was off $150,000 to $1.7 million. Net income fell from $4.3 million to $400,000 (including $3.9 million of pre-tax strategic transaction-related expenses. Without those expenses, net income would have been $2.8 million (31 cents per share), reports Fisher. President and CEO Colleen Brown, however, put a positive spin on Q2. "The second quarter marked a continuation of our positive momentum, with Fisher delivering another solid quarter financially and operationally. Once again our performance highlights the strength of our broadcast stations in their respective markets, which continued to climb in ratings rank and received a number of coveted awards during the quarter. KOMO 4 News, Fisher's flagship station in Seattle, recently won 15 Regional Emmys, including the most prestigious Station Excellence Award. And for the second consecutive year, KOMO 4 won Best Evening Newscast, and for the third consecutive year, Best Morning Newscast." Brown adds, "We are also pleased to announce that in the second quarter we closed our acquisition of assets of KMTR(TV) in Eugene, Oregon. We look forward to working with the KMTR team to leverage our strengths, reach and resources to better serve the Eugene community." Fisher, of course, is being acquired by Sinclair Broadcasting. CBS Radio Launches 'La Grande 107.5' in Dallas 
CBS Radio Dallas-Fort Worth introduces "La Grande 107.5" KMVK-FM, featuring Regional Mexican "hits by today's most popular artists." The station flips from Spanish CHR "Mega 107.5" to the Regional Mexican format. Program Director Jimmy Gonzalez tells us, "La Grande 107.5 FM brings together some of Spanish radio's most talented on-air personalities with the very best in Regional Mexican music." Gonzalez is also VP of Spanish Programming, for CBS Radio. He says Marconi Radio Award-winning personality Edgar "ShoBoy" Sotelo will continue to host mornings 5:30-10am, while afternoons 3-7pm will feature Pelos Parados, who joins the station. Additional on-air staff, we're told, will be announced at a later date. The new "La Grande 107.5" is online here. As "Mega 107.5" with Spanish CHR, KMVK-FM has trailed Univision's Regional Mexican "La Que Buena 94.1" KLNO-FM, with which the CBS Radio station will now directly compete. SBS Names Cesar Daniel Ruiz Chicago 'La Ley' Program Director 
Spanish Broadcasting System appoints Cesar Daniel Ruiz as Program Director of Regional Mexican "La Ley 107.9" WLEY-FM, Chicago, effective immediately. The station has been without a PD since last October, when Jose Luis Marquez, aka "El Pitufo" was shown the door as SBS said his position "was eliminated." Ruiz, we're told, will have overall oversight and responsibility for on-air and digital aspects of the station. Most recently he was at "La Raza 102.3" and "La Mega 96.5" in Atlanta from 2009 to 2013. In 2007, as its first PD, Ruiz helped launch "La Raza 106.3" WRAZ-FM, Miami. "We are proud and thrilled to welcome Cesar back to the SBS family. We are sure that he will do great things here and contribute greatly to bringing La Ley higher ratings," says SBS Chicago VP of Sales Gerardo Reyes. "Cesar's broad knowledge and extensive experience in radio programming make him a tremendous addition to our team," adds SBS COO Albert Rodriguez. "His expertise as the executive-in-charge of many successful programs and understanding of our audience will be a strong asset as we build on the success of our programming in Chicago." Ruiz started in radio business as a board operator in Los Angeles in 1996. Jonas Brothers to Headline Kidd Kraddick's 'Kidd's Kids' Concert
Nationally syndicated radio host Kidd Kraddick announces that his first benefit concert for his "Kidd's Kids" charity will be headlined by the Jonas Brothers. The event is set for August 15 at the Dallas House of Blues. "Kidd Kraddick in the Morning" is based in Dallas, syndicated by his own YEA Networks. In addition to the Jonas Brothers, Kraddick tells us that Jason Derulo, Andy Grammer, Cimorelli and Tim Halperin are also on the bill for the charity concert. "The Jonas Brothers have supported Kidd's Kids since 2007, when they came to our send-off party at the height of their fame; so we knew all we had to do was ask and they would be in," says Kraddick. "This is turning into a really cool, diverse group of artists, and I'm so grateful to all of them for giving their time to Kidd’s Kids when they could be making big money elsewhere." Kidd's Kids is a program of the Kraddick Foundation, established in 1991 with the goal of making a difference in the lives of terminally and chronically ill children. Each year, Kidd's Kids offers five days of "suspended reality" to children whose lives have been ravaged by disease, with an all-expenses paid dream vacation to Disney World for the kids and their immediate families. Study: People Exaggerate New Music Interest 
Although many studies continue telling Hit Music Radio that listeners want to "discover new music" rather than just hearing the same hits over and over, a new study from Washington University finds that while consumers claim they want to hear new music, they end up choosing songs they already know. The new study notes that familiarity is especially appealing when people are busy or performing cognitively difficult tasks. "Does 'familiarity breed contempt' or is 'to know you is to love you?'," begins the report. "In this research, we explore the role of familiarity in music choice. We show that although consumers say they would prefer to listen to unfamiliar music, in actuality familiarity with music positively predicts preference for songs, play lists, and radio stations. Familiarity with music is at least as good, if not a better, predictor of choice as are liking, satiation (which actually positively predicts choice), and regret. We suggest that the need for familiarity is driven by consumers' low need for stimulation in the music domain, and show that when the need for stimulation decreases, the power of familiarity significantly increases. In addition to their theoretical contribution, these results are informative for music managers determining playlists, for the promotion of music events and products, and for advertisers selecting the most potentially lucrative music venues." Read the full report on the study (pdf). House Communications Subcommittee Passes Two FCC Reform Bills 
The House Communications Subcommittee Thursday passed two FCC reform bills -- the FCC Process Reform Act and the FCC Consolidated Reporting Act. Both now go to the full committee. Similar bills were approved in 2012 by the subcommittee and ultimately the full House but they never passed in the Senate. As we've previously reported, the FCC Process Reform Act would require the Commission to place a time limit on its decision making process, setting a minimum time for public comments and giving the Chairman less power over the FCC's agenda. The FCC Consolidated Reporting Act would eliminate outdated studies, while consolidating other studies into a biennial release, and would initiate a state-of-the-industry report. CBS Corporation Expands Share Repurchase Program 
CBS Corporation's Board of Directors has expanded its share repurchase program to a total availability of $6 billion, an increase of $5.1 billion. Since the share repurchase program was initiated in January, 2011, through the end of the second quarter of 2013, CBS has returned $3.75 billion of value to its shareholders. In addition, the board has approved a quarterly dividend on the company's stock of 12 cents per share. The dividend is payable on October 1 to shareholders of record on September 10. Mark Panetta Launches Clear Riffles Marketing and Research 
Former DMR Interactive SVP of Marketing Strategy Mark Panetta announces the launch of Clear Riffles -- a new marketing and research agency. Panetta, who spent 17 years with the Cincinnati-based strategic marketing consultancy, says his new venture is being created because "companies who specialize in direct marketing for radio have been more focused on the vehicle and the destination than on the content they deliver. That is, they spend all their time on WHERE and HOW to advertise and little on WHAT TO SAY. Yet, in the most successful advertising campaigns of the recent decade – Apple vs. PC, The Geico Gecko, Target Stores rebranding, etc. – it's the perfectly executed message that mattered most. Success is the result of a solid strategy based on understanding consumer perceptions and needs. When you get that right, powerful creative can follow. Where and how you advertise is then a matter of mechanics." Panetta says Clear Riffles was founded to fill the creative void by designing radio marketing campaigns that truly connect radio stations with today’s listeners. He says this is accomplished with more emphasis on the creative process starting with proprietary research that illuminates current consumer views and attitudes. And he adds, "It's the hard work others in our field are not set up or qualified to do." Panetta can be contacted at Mark@ClearRiffles.com.
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Chicago Public Media, the parent of WBEZ-FM, loses its leader, as CEO Torey Malatia resigns after 20 years, during which he worked on increasingly changing WBEZ-FM from music to News Talk and Information programming. No successor is immediately named ... Scott Corchin (also known as Scotty Kay and Special K) exits Clear Channel's CHR-Top40 "103.5 Kiss FM" WKSC-FM, Chicago, where he was evening host and Music Director, reportedly a budget-cutting move because, according to Chicagoland Radio and Media, Corchin's "ratings were beating those of rival WBBM-FM 'B96' in the all ages numbers, the 25-54 demographic, and the stations' target demo of 18-34 year olds." Weekend host Eric Z is now doing the evening show ... Bill White is named Program Director at News Talk "104.1 The Truth" KQTH-FM and Sports Talk "ESPN Tucson" KFFN-AM-FM, Tucson, Arizona, replacing Ryan McCredden who exited to join CBS Radio Houston ... Tony Tecate moves from afternoons to mornings at Rhythmic CHR "Wild 101" KWYD-FM, Boise, taking over from former morning host Rick Moorten who exits for mornings at "Jammin' Z90" XHTZ-FM, San Diego. Tecate continues as Assistant PD and Music Director at "Wild 101" ... Comedian, actor and radio personality D.L. Hughley will replace Skip Murphy as Reach Media's syndicated afternoon host. Murphy replaced Michael Baisden when he exited earlier this year. Hughley was the former morning host on "98.7 Kiss FM" WRKS-FM, New York ... Clear Channel's "Wild 95.5" WLDI-FM, West Palm Beach, adds Premiere-syndicated Elvis Duran for mornings -- as the longtime "KVJ Show" (Kevin Rolston, Virginia Sinicki and Jason Pennington) exits for its move to Cox Media Group's Hot AC "The Coast" WFLC-FM, Miami ... T.J. Raphael joins "The Takeaway" as Digital Content Editor, from Folio magazine where she was Senior Editor. "The Takeaway" is produced by WNYC-FM, New York, and Public Radio International, in collaboration with New York Times Radio and WGBH-FM, Boston, currently airing on 200 affiliate stations.
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Meanwhile, Watt says the new version of the bill differs from the 2009 version that would have made a performance royalty mandatory for terrestrial radio. Watt says the new legislation will merely establish that musicians have public performance rights for their songs. "Once the performance right is recognized for musicians, the radio station will be incentivized to avoid legal action against themselves by entering into an agreement. We think this brings the parties to the negotiating table in a way that has not happened before," Watt told