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Official: Cumulus Buying Dial Global, Selling Stations to Townsquare; Peak Stations Sold to Townsquare, Fresno Stations Spun to Cumulus 
And now the official news comes that Cumulus Media is acquiring Dial Global for $260 million, and merging it into Cumulus Media under the combined Westwood One name, and is selling off stations to Townsquare Media. Of the $260 million, about $45 million is in equity and $215 million is for the retirement of DG debt. Townsquare Media meanwhile announces that it is acquiring not only stations from Cumulus, but also stations from Peak Broadcasting. To finance the Dial Global acquisition, Cumulus is selling 53 radio stations in 12 small markets to
The Official Cumulus Announcement: 'Cumulus to Acquire Dial Global' 
MHBC has obtained the official news release from Cumulus Media on its acquisition of Dial Global (offered as a pdf document). We are publishing it here verbatim, in plain text.
Entercom's New Seattle 'Hot 103.7' Replaces 'The Mountain' 
Entercom flips Triple-A "The Mountain" KMTT-FM, Seattle to rhythmic Hot AC as "Hot 103.7" with the slogan "The Rhythm of Seattle." Entercom Seattle tells us, "At 3pm Pacific time today [Aug. 30], Entercom launched a new Hot AC radio format in the Seattle market. The New Hot 103.7 - The Rhythm of Seattle, replaces The Mountain in Entercom’s Seattle lineup. The New Hot 103.7 will be a unique, clearly defined station targeting modern Seattle women. It will play today’s hits with throwbacks from well-known artists from the 2000s and 1990s." Says Entercom Seattle VP and Market Manager Jack Hutchison, “Our new Hot AC, with its rhythmic format, will be everything our competitors are not, giving Seattle women a new radio choice. These are exciting times for Entercom Seattle and for our advertisers. The New Hot 103.7 will provide a unique way to reach Seattle’s modern women, targeting those who have moved beyond the 18-year-old mindset and grown out of the younger CHR sound as well as the sleepy format of older AC stations.” VP of Programming and Operations Dave Richards announces that "current KKWF PD, former longtime Program Director of 106.1 Kiss FM and former Vice President for CHR for CBS Radio nationwide, Mike Preston, will lead The New Hot 103.7." Says Richards, “It’s a logical choice. Mike is a brilliant programmer and knows this music and Seattle better than anyone." Newly installed Program Director Mike Preston adds, “We are building The New Hot 103.7 to compete and win. We will launch with 10,000 songs in a row to build our brand and grow our audience, and we will back up our launch with an aggressive media campaign starting in September.” In response to "The Mountain" leaving the FM dial, Hutchison adds, “Unfortunately, over time things change and tough decisions have to be made. Unlike most radio stations that simply go away and never come back, The Mountain will live on. We are redoubling our efforts to ensure this unique brand of music is there for our passionate fans. We will continue to dedicate an HD2 Radio channel to the original Mountain, and will continue live streaming on our website as well as delivering content to two different mobile apps.” Nielsen Extends FTC Review Period for Arbitron Acquisition 
Nielsen is officially giving the FTC more time to review its $1.26 billion deal to acquire Arbitron, indicating that a deal between Nielsen and the FTC may be close to obtain clearance from the FTC. In a brief Friday afternoon news release, Nielsen says it has agreed to extend the period for regulatory review of Nielsen's Arbitron acquisition into September. The release says, "The regulatory process continues to progress and Nielsen continues to be confident in the ultimate outcome." Cumulus Reacquiring Green Bay Cluster from Clear Channel 
Clear Channel is selling back five stations in the Green Bay market to Cumulus, based on a 2009 "put agreement" that included an LMA back to Cumulus, at a "put" price of $17,636,643. In 2009, Cumulus Media swapped the five Green Bay stations to Clear Channel in exchange for a pair of stations in Cincinnati. While Cumulus continued to operate the Green Bay stations via the LMA, Clear Channel had the agreement in the contract allowing them to require Cumulus to repurchase the stations between July 1 and September 1, 2013. Clear Channel has exercised the clause and will be selling the stations back to Cumulus. The five stations are Hot AC "Star 98" WQLH-FM, "Classic Hits 103.1" WOGB-FM, Country "Nash FM 104.9" WPCK-FM, and the Sports Talk simulcast of "The Fan" WDUZ-AM and WDUZ-FM. New York's WFAN-AM-FM Keeps New Jersey Devils Hockey 
The New Jersey Devils and "Sports Radio 66 AM and 101.9 FM" WFAN-AM-FM, New York, jointly announce the extension of their partnership, in a multi-year deal under which the CBS Radio Sports Talk station will continue to broadcast the team's regular and post-season games. The announcement was made by Devils President/General Manager Lou Lamoriello and CBS Radio New York SVP and Market Manager, Don Bouloukos. WFAN will also again broadcast 15 minute pre-game and post-game shows for every game. "The New Jersey Devils are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with WFAN," says Lamoriello. "Their commitment to sports programming on a 24-hour/year-round basis will provide us with the best possible radio exposure to reach our fans." Says Bouloukos, "We are looking forward to another exciting year of Devils hockey, and appreciate working with such a first-class organization both on and off the ice. This announcement ensures audiences will hear the same captivating game coverage they've come to expect from WFAN." The 2013-14 season will mark the ninth straight year WFAN will serve as the Devils' radio broadcast home. Matt Loughlin will enter his eighth season as the team's play-by-play announcer, while Sherry Ross is in her seventh straight year as color commentator, after re-joining the organization in 2007-08. NBA Trail Blazers Move to Portland's 'Fox Sports Radio 620' 
The NBA's Portland Trail Blazers radio home is moving from Clear Channel Talk KEX-AM to sister "Fox Sports Radio 620" KPOJ-AM for the 2013-14 season. This is the third time the Trail Blazers are changing stations in the past three years, but this time they stay with the same radio company. Prior to the 2012-13 season, the team was on Alpha Broadcasting's "750 The Game" KXTG-AM. Brian Wheeler and Antonio Harvey will call the action on KPOJ-AM beginning with the preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers, October 7. The team's weekly "Trail Blazers Courtside" -- hosted by Wheeler, Harvey, and TV voices Mike Barrett and Mike Rice -- will also air on "Fox Sports Radio 620". Says Trail Blazers President and CEO Chris McGowan, "We are excited about the opportunity to broadcast our games on a station the offers an all-sports format. This transition also allows us to avoid any preemption throughout the course of the season." Clear Channel Portland Market President Robert Dove tells us, "We're thrilled to continue our partnership and build 'Blazer Mania' in Portland. For all things Trail Blazers you only need Fox Sports Radio 620." FCC Acting Chair Clyburn Announces Key Staff Appointments 
FCC Acting Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn announces senior staff appointments -- naming Mark Stephens as Acting Managing Director and Dr. David Bray as the Commission's Chief Information Officer (CIO). As Acting Managing Director, Stephens will manage the Commission's budget and financial programs, human resources, contracts, purchasing, communications, computer services, physical space, security and distribution of official FCC documents. In his role as CIO, Dr. Bray will implement a tech-forward strategy to equip workers with effective technology, cut costs, and shift the Commission's IT trajectory towards more sustainable and secure cloud-based solutions. Stephens and Dr. Bray, along with other senior managers, will work in the Office of the Managing Director (OMD) to coordinate the administration and management of the Commission. Clyburn also announces David Valdez as Special Counsel to her office. In that role, Valdez will oversee issues relating to regulatory reforms to facilitate innovation in government and assist in managing the FCC's various Advisory Committees. Says Clyburn, "I am pleased that the FCC continues to internally promote and recruit talented individuals to continue help manage the agency to the highest standards and to drive the agency's mission forward. I congratulate Mark on his appointment to Acting Managing Director and thank him for his dedicated service to date. He has been an outstanding CFO in the Office of Managing Director and the Commission will continue to benefit from his deep experience and expertise. I would also like to welcome David A. Bray and David Valdez to the Commission where their strong leadership qualities and wide-ranging and valuable experience from the public and private sectors will be invaluable to the FCC's management and important policy work going forward." Sirius XM Shareholders Sue New Owner Liberty Media 
A group of SiriusXM shareholders is suing, claiming they were shortchanged when the satellite radio company was taken over by Liberty Media. An attorney for the disgruntled shareholders argued in court this week that Liberty Media head John Malone acquired control over the satcaster via an unfair agreement. Attorney Mark Lebovitch made the shareholders' case in a Delaware courtroom this week, claiming Malone unfairly used an investment agreement to take control of SiriusXM, without paying a premium or allowing investors a vote in the matter, according to Bloomberg. "Malone wanted to enjoy all the economic benefits of being a controlling shareholder without having any of the responsibilities," Lebovitch told Delaware Chancery Court Judge Leo Strine at a hearing in Wilmington. Bloomberg says that Strine will rule at a later date on whether the investors’ case should go forward. Lawyers representing Liberty executives and former SiriusXM directors say that the shareholders' claims should not be considered, because they revolve around a 2009 agreement where Sirius' directors traded away defenses against the takeover in exchange for a cash infusion from Liberty Media. "The time to assert these claims has come and gone," said Liberty's attorney Donald Wolfe. Bloomberg says that regardless of the outcome of the suit, it calculates that Liberty Media has already made "billions of dollars" on its investment, because SiriusXM stock has increased more than 22-fold since February 2009 when the Malone/Liberty loan agreement was first announced. Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio 
The "Jack FM" format launches on a two-station North Carolina simulcast -- in Greenville-New Bern, and Jacksonville-Wilmington. The two new "Jack" stations are (92.3) WQSL-FM and (101.1) WQZL-FM. They are using the Dial Global STORQ platform ... Hot AC "Mix 96" KRAV-FM, Tulsa, morning co-host Dave Weston exits to concentrate fulltime on his voiceover biz ... Greg Tillotson is in as the new Operations Manager of Mapleton's seven-station Spokane Washington cluster. Tillotson most recently was Brand Manager for Townsquare Classic Hits "K-Bear" KKBR-FM, Billings, Montana, until it flipped to CHR/Top 40 as "Pop Crush 97.1" ... BCA Sports Talk "The Mighty 1090" XEPRS-AM, San Diego, morning co-host J.D. Hayworth has exited the station. Hayworth is the former Congressman and Clear Channel Talk KFYI-AM/Phoenix host. He joined up with Lee "Hacksaw" Hamilton in San Diego earlier this year on the morning show.
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From Mark Harris Broadcast Consulting
Friday, August 30, 2013
Friday's Radio & Media News - August 30, 2013
Townsquare Media for $238 million. Cumulus also is swapping 15 other small-market radio stations with Townsquare in exchange for five stations in Fresno, California. When the multi-part deals are done, Cumulus would have about 440 stations, as well as a much larger radio syndication division that would better rival Clear Channel's Premiere Networks.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Thursday's Radio & Media News - August 29, 2013
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'Westwood One' Brand Is Set for Revival - But How Soon? 
MHBC is hearing that the radio syndication name "Westwood One" will indeed be revived and returned to prominence. Sources say the only question now is the timing of the Westwood comeback. We're told that had tentatively been set for sometime in early September by Dial Global's latest new CEO, Paul Caine
Entravision Is Sued for Online Photo Copyright Infringement 
National Photo Group is suing another radio company for using a copyrighted photo on its websites. This suit claims that Entravision Communications used a photo of Drew Barrymore on the website for its Country "101.9 The Wolf" KNTY-FM, Sacramento, without authorization or permission. This lawsuit was filed in California, with NPG seeking $150,000 per photo plus "wrongful profits" and attorney's fees and costs.
NPG is again represented by the Sanders Law Firm. The photo cited in the legal filing shows Drew Barrymore holding a sonogram. As we've previously reported, National Photo Group has recently filed similar suits for unauthorized use of copyrighted photos on the websites of several broadcast companies, including Clear Channel, Townsquare Media, and Midwest Communications.
Chicago's WGN-AM Reuniting 'Wendy And Bill' for Midday Show 
Tribune Broadcasting now tells us that indeed Wendy Snyder will join her former on-air partner Bill Leff for the 9am-12noon show on Talk WGN-AM, Chicago, starting next week when the station's new lineup debuts. Snyder has resigned from crosstown Cumulus Talk WLS-AM, where she's been the morning traffic reporter. Leff, who has been hosting late-nights at WGN-AM, has already been announced for the late morning show, originally "with a co-host to be announced." Leff and Snyder were a duo in evenings at Classic Rock "The Loop" WLUP-FM in 1994, later moving to mornings at Alternative "Q101" WKQX-FM, from 1996-98. New WGN-AM VP of Creative Content Todd Manley tells Chicago media reporter Robert Feder, "It's one of the best pairings to ever happen on the radio. It was just about to explode [at Q101], and here we find ourselves in a place where we can breathe new life into it and watch it grow. They're two really special people who have great stories to tell about their life together on the radio and since then." DC's WRQX-FM Becomes 'All The Hits 107-3' 
Cumulus Hot AC "Mix 107.3" WRQX-FM, Washington DC, flips to Adult Top 40 "All The Hits 107-3" -- following "an evolution" from an "80s, 90s and Now" music mix to mostly currents/recurrents. Afternoon hosts Marco and Brooke Ryan remain in place, but the rest of the host mix are now piped in from two sister stations -- CHR/Top 40 "Q100" WWWQ-FM, Atlanta, and Adult Top 40 "i94" WRWM-FM, Indianapolis. "All The Hits 107.3" is now featuring "The Bert Show" in mornings, followed by McKinzie Roth for middays. Following the afternoon show, WRQX-FM offers the syndicated "Nights Live With Adam Bomb." The new "All The Hits 107.3" is online here at the former "Mix" url, but the station has a new 1073Hits.com that will soon be used (if not already activated when you read this). Some are wondering if the station may eventually revive its onetime "Q107" identity with "All the Hits." The former "Q107" was a Top 40 station from 1979 until 1990 when it flipped to the just-ended "Mix" identity. 2013 Radio Show to Feature Pro Athletes Turned Pro Talkers 
The NAB and the RAB announce a 2013 Radio Show Super Session titled "Jocks on Jocks." The session, featuring former professional athletes who are now on-air radio personalities, will be held September 19 at 11am at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando. CBS Sports Radio Host Jim Rome (pictured) will moderate a discussion on how these athletes transitioned from sports to radio and why they favor the medium. Panelists include Bobby Hebert of "SportsTalk with Bobby Hebert and Deke Bellavia" on Entercom's WWL-AM-FM; Tom Tolbert, host, "The Mr. T Show" on Cumulus' KNBR-AM; and Amani Toomer, co-host, "Amani and Eytan" on NBC Sports Radio. Rome is one of the top voices in sports broadcasting. Over 225 stations carry "The Jim Rome Show," currently the longest running, stand-alone syndicated sports talk show on air. He also hosts CBS Sports Network's "Rome," "Jim Rome on Showtime" and contributes to NFL, NCAA basketball and US Open Tennis Championship coverage.
NRG Media Names Terry Peters Wisconsin Market Manager 
Terry Peters is named Market Manager for NRG Media's six-station Northwoods Radio Operation based in northern Wisconsin. Peters, most recently working in a non-radio position, previously managed a Des Moines cluster for Citadel, preceded by a position with Cox Radio in Tampa. NRG Media COO Chuck Ducoty tells us, "We have selected a manager for this important cluster who meets all of our criteria including radio managerial experience, a broad depth of experience in industries important to our growth in radio and, equally important in this area, an understanding, appreciation and love of the unique area and lifestyle that is the Northwoods of Wisconsin." Says Peters, "I am thrilled to be working with NRG Media in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, which I’ve always considered one of the most beautiful spots on earth!" Nick DeGregorio Joins Sun Broadcast Group as VP of Affiliate Sales 
Sun Broadcast Group hires Nick DeGregorio as VP of Affiliate Sales and Programming to head up the affiliate sales team. DeGregorio comes to Sun from Cumulus Media Networks where he was the Senior Director of Affiliate Sales and Special Projects. Previously, he was with Westwood One as the Regional Director of Affiliate Sales and Manager of the Lou Dobbs Radio Network for United Stations Radio Networks. "At the core of Sun Broadcast Group is the belief to always be different and strive for a new way of thinking. We were blown away with NICK as soon as we met him", says Sun EVP Steve Gallagher. "Nick is a wealth of new ideas and has a refreshing perspective on the network radio business for today and the future. Nick is a creative thinker and energizes anyone around him." Says Gregorio, "From the moment I first sat down with Steve and Jason Bailey, Sun Broadcast Group CEO, I knew our vision and goals were the same; to be the most forward thinking company in network radio. Our objective is not to reshuffle and repackage the same old syndicated shows, but to find what is next and change the way the radio industry is perceived. There are so few companies focused on, not only today but the future of radio, and Sun is the leader of that pack. That is why I joined this family; to help keep the Theatre of the Mind, Top of Mind, for generations to come. " Leslie Sturm Joins AdLarge Media 
AdLarge Media adds Leslie Sturm to its sales staff based in their New York office. Sturm previously was Senior Account Executive at United Stations Radio Networks (USRN) for three years. She was also Senior Account Manager at SiriusXM, and spent a combined 10 years with Premiere Radio Networks and MJI Broadcasting in similar capacities, handling ad sales for national accounts. "Leslie has a terrific combination of radio sales and advertising agency experience that gives her exceptional insight into advertisers' needs and goals," says Ad Large CRO for Radio Sales Don Wachsmith. "Her perspective is a benefit to client communications, and to meeting the objectives of an advertiser's strategy. I have known Leslie for a while, and I am delighted to welcome her onboard." Sturm tells us, "I was attracted to AdLarge as a growth company and because of its extensive array of premium sports and digital properties. AdLarge's strong content and digital partnerships provide advertisers with customizable options for deep integration and multi-media campaigns. I am looking forward to working with the entire AdLarge team." Before moving to media sales, Sturm was VP/Associate Director of Network Radio at NW Ayer/MediaEdge. Says AdLarge Co-Founder and CEO Gary Schonfeld, "Leslie and I collaborated on many campaigns when she was at NW Ayer/MediaEdge. She exhibited an ability to pinpoint the core objective of an advertising campaign and identify the right platforms and environment for reaching and engaging her client's target audience. I'm very excited that she has joined us." Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio
CHR/Top 40 WPST-FM, Trenton, NJ, night host Tom Shinn moves up to afternoons to replace Matt Sneed who just exited the station after 12 years. Shinn will also be Marketing Director for WPST-FM. The station tells us Sneed's duties as APD/MD will not be filled by anyone ... CHR/Top 40 "Q101" WQPO-FM, Harrsisonburg, Virginia, names Mickey English as the new morning host ... CHR/Top 40 "107.1 The Monkey" WXYK-FM, Biloxi-Gulfport, welcomes Slater as the new 7pm-12midnight host. Slater previously was at "Bob 93.3" WERO-FM, Greenville ... Sports Talk "98.7 The Fan" WHFS-FM, Tampa, evening host Nanci "The Fabulous Sports Babe" Donnellan moves to weekends ... SiriusXM adds the Dan Patrick mid-morning show on the satcaster's Sports Talk channel, "Mad Dog Sports Radio" ... Classic Country KYPY-FM, Baton Rouge, flips to a simulcast of sister Sports Talk "104.5 ESPN" WNXX-FM as "ESPN Radio Baton Rouge" ... Talk WLW-AM, Cincinnati, news anchor Dean Miuccio exits to move to South Florida, where he will work for Miami Media School, while seeking a new radio position there ... News Talk WTMJ-AM, Milwaukee, ups afternoon news producer Eric Brooks to Executive Producer. Brooks will continue to produce afternoon news, but will now have additional operational and oversight duties.
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-- but the return of the brand may be delayed until DG is acquired by Cumulus Media.
Our source this time is an insider at an advertising agency who says his agency, and others, have already been told the name change is coming by representatives of Dial Global. Since they received the first news of that, though, there are now indications that the revival of the Westwood name, previously retired by DG, may be delayed until Dial Global is sold to Cumulus Media and the two syndication operations are combined. That, however, with an expected long regulatory clearance process, might not be until sometime next year. Our source agrees with several recent reports that have circulated that the name change will ultimately be two-fold -- to bury the failed Dial Global name and to make the syndication offerings of the revived Westwood more attractive to radio stations not owned by Cumulus, similar to Clear Channel's use of "Premiere Networks" for its radio syndication operation. Meanwhile, multiple reports indicate Paul Caine may remain when DG is acquired by Cumulus, taking charge of the combined syndication operation using the Westwood One name, which dates back to 1976
On August 22 Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Wednesday's Radio & Media News - August 28, 2013
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Tom Taylor Reaffirms Pending Cumulus Purchase of Dial Global,
There are new reports today that Cumulus Media will acquire Dial Global, adding Townsquare Media to a pair of deals to make the acquisition possible. Reportedly, Cumulus will spin-off some four dozen stations to Townsquare Media, so that Cumulus can come up with the capital to purchase DG and merge it with Cumulus Media Networks, resulting in radio's largest syndication operation. Veteran radio/media news reporter/analyst Tom Taylor again was first to report the latest details on a story he broke Monday (as we reported then). However, this time more other major online publications picked up on Taylor's report, either citing his info (without attribution) or claiming their own sources. And some of the new reports today do add more details to the reported pair of related deals that all say are within days of being announced. Again we hear that the new giant syndication company that would result from combining those of Cumulus and Dial Global could be named Westwood One to both eliminate the troubled DG identity and make syndication deals easier with non-Cumulus stations -- much as is the case with Clear Channel's Premiere Networks. The link for the three companies in the pair of related deals is said to be Oaktree Capital, which holds a major stake in Dial Global, along with The Gores Group, which inherited a substantial piece of DG when it acquired the syndication operations of the former Westwood One. Oaktree also is the controlling shareholder of Townsquare. Says Taylor, in his "Now" newsletter today, "the likely movement on the chessboard" breaks down this way: "Oaktree and The Gores Group control Dial Global, and they’d sell DG to Cumulus. Cumulus would then be able to combine Dial Global – including much of the former Westwood One product line – with its own Cumulus Media Networks. Lots of synergies there, as Cumulus boss Lew Dickey would tell Wall Street. What form would it take? Most likely, Cumulus buys publicly-traded Dial Global outright, then folds DG together with its own CMN." The deal between Cumulus and Townsquare would be announced separately. You might remember that just over a year ago, Townsquare bought 55 stations in 11 small and medium markets from Cumulus. None of the players in the reportedly pending new deals are yet speaking on the record, although Cumulus Co-COO John Dickey, when asked about Monday's reports, didn't deny any of it, while not confirming anything. But his response does give rise to the belief that something is definitely pending. "As the industry knows Cumulus is an acquisitive company. As such, we are always looking at opportunities that are both accretive and strategic." Cox Media Group Names Jeff Garrison Country Radio Format Leader 
Cox Media Group (CMG) names Jeff Garrison as its new Country radio format leader, effective immediately. In this role, Garrison will work closely with Steve Smith, CMG's VP of Radio Programming, and all of CMG's Country music program directors at the company’s Country stations, in addition to his current duties as Program Director of "Y100" KCYY-FM/San Antonio and Operations Manager of the San Antonio cluster. KCYY-FM is one of six Cox Country stations. The others are Orlando's WWKA-FM, Houston’s KKBQ-FM, Dayton’s WHKO-FM, Tulsa's KWEN-FM, and WNGC-FM/Athens. "We are proud that Jeff is taking on these additional responsibilities, and I am confident he will be a huge resource to our country program directors," says CMG EVP of Radio Kim Guthrie. "CMG has some of the biggest super brands in the country format, and adding Jeff to the strategic teams at each station will help us leverage our strength in this format." Says Smith, "I've known Jeff for 25 years, and I’m delighted that CMG can tap this country radio veteran programmer who has tremendous results. During his short time with CMG San Antonio, he has taken Y100 from seventh in the market to second with listeners 25 to 54, and we’re a hair away from being Number One in the market." Garrison tells us, "It is a privilege to be a part CMG's elite country stations. I look forward to working with such a great group of programmers as we maximize the engagement and entertainment to our local audiences. I also would like to thank Steve Smith for the opportunity to work with his team!" Garrison, a 31-year media veteran, has worked in many markets in his career. He has spent the past 17 years with CBS Radio as Program Director and Operations Manager for stations in Houston, Texas and most recently Phoenix. He has overseen formats including Country, Classic Hits, Hot AC, CHR/Top 40 and Smooth Jazz. As Vice President of CBS Country from 2002 to 2010, Garrison oversaw the programming for Country stations in markets like Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Seattle and Tampa. In 2011 he segued to CBS Country VP/Artist-Label relations securing content and promotions for on-air, digital and TV assets. USRN Sues Former United Stations VP Dan Brassem 
United Stations Radio Networks is suing its former VP/Managing Director of Affiliate Relations Dan Brassem for allegedly providing information to USRN's former EVP of Comedy Dave Kolin ("Dr. Dave"), who is now competing with USRN at Premiere Networks. USRN's suit was filed in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. USRN alleges that Brassem, who quit United Stations to join Premiere, is "drawing upon, and improperly using, USRN's confidential, proprietary and trade secret information to undercut USRN's pricing and other customer terms and to unfairly lure USRN's customers away from USRN to PRN." The suit adds that Brassem has "teamed" with Kolin -- with whom he has "thrown the proverbial one-two punch." The filing explains the claim that Kolin "is using USRN's trade secrets in an attempt to replicate USRN's product, while Brassem is using USRN's trade secrets to market that product to USRN's existing and prospective customers." The suit also alleges that the two former USRN executives "have unfairly poached numerous other USRN employees." The suit claims that Kolin attempted to "destroy the company and everything that" its founders "and others had worked hard and contributed substantial capital to build" due to "personal differences with or jealousy of" Nick Verbitsy (one of USRN's founders, along with Charlie Colombo and Dick Clark. That, says the suit, came after Kolin failed to acquire the company. He's also alleged to have undermined the loyalty of USRN employees, including Brassem, with whom the suit says he "began conspiring to destroy USRN." The suit cites emails from Brassem to Kolin with spreadsheets containing affiliate and ratings information for USRN services, and alleges Brassem created a new user name and password for his USRN account to "furtively access and download USRN's Proprietary Content from his personal email account" and changed cancellation rights and terms for affiliates to allow them to cancel their USRN contracts. It's also alleged that Brassem took contracts from company files and put a trojan on his computer to allow unauthorized access and theft of passwords. The suit also says 48 "stolen affiliates" cancelled USRN contracts to move to Premiere Networks. Broadcasters Donate $6.9M in Airtime to End Mental Health Stigma 
The NAB announces that OK2TALK, its PSA campaign designed to end the stigma around mental health, has received $6.9 million in donated broadcast airtime since its launch on July 23. The PSAs have aired on local television stations across America more than 48,000 times and more than 3,300 times on local radio stations. "I'm so proud of broadcasters across the country who have embraced this campaign and stand united in making a positive difference in the lives of millions of people," says NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith.
Harris Broadcast Strengthens Leadership Team to Support New Vision
Appoints Steve Foreman, President of Global Operations and Services; 
Harris Broadcast, now "a global supplier of content management and network infrastructure serving broadcasters, satellite, MSOs, IPTV, mobile television and over-the-top providers," announces plans to preview the new management team's vision and strategy at IBC 2013 in Amsterdam. The business also announced new senior management appointments. Steve Foreman has been named President of Global Operations and Services, and Jeff Liening, SVP of Global Sales Operations. "With our customers and partners facing significant technology and industry transformations, Harris Broadcast is aggressively focused on shaping our vision, product roadmaps and go-to-market strategy to address these unique challenges and opportunities," says Harris Broadcast CEO Charlie Vogt. "We are uniquely positioned in the marketplace with more than 3,000 customers worldwide, powerful patents and a leading solutions portfolio, while our new, independent ownership structure is fueling customer-focus and an entrepreneurial culture. The investments we are making in our leadership team build on the company’s strong base to better serve our customers and the industry." Foreman, we're told, brings a unique global track record in operations, transformation and supply chain management to Harris Broadcast. He joins the company from Texas Pacific Group (TPG) where he was senior advisor for seven years supporting management teams during strategic and operational transformations, including Freescale Semiconductor, Avaya and Armstrong Worldwide Industries.
'Rising Through the Ranks' Program Completion Announced 
The RAB, in conjunction with BMI, and the Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio Group (MIW), announces the successful completion of the Sixth Annual Rising Through the Ranks, Women in Radio Management and Leadership Training Program. Twenty scholarship recipients were welcomed at the BMI offices in Nashville, August 21-22, 2013. Scholarship recipients were selected and awarded by
Amy Tardif Elected RTDNA Chair 
"Southwest Florida Source for Public Broadcasting" WGCU-FM, Fort Myers, Station Manager and News Director Amy Tardif has become the first woman in public radio to head a global association of broadcast and digital journalists. She will be responsible for chairing the 2014 RTNDA conference in Nashville after being elected chair-elect for 2013-2014 at the organization's annual meeting. She will also serve as RTDNA's executive producer of the Association's next national convention, "Excellence in Journalism 2014" in Nashville. Members of the Radio Television Digital News Association have also voted for several members of the Board of Directors, although because Tardif had served as Regional Director for Region 13, her seat now becomes vacant. Her successor will be appointed at a later date. For complete election results, click here. RTDNA represents local and network journalists in broadcasting, cable, and digital media. WGCU-FM is Southwest Florida's NPR affiliate and broadcasts from the Florida Gulf Coast University’s campus. Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo Re-Ups with SiriusXM, Joins MLB Network 
Sirius XM Radio signs Chris "Mad Dog" Russo to a new three-year contract that will keep his daily Sports Talk show exclusively on SiriusXM's "Mad Dog Sports Radio" channel. Russo's on-air role will be expanded to include a significant presence on the MLB Network Radio channel on SiriusXM. MLB Network says that Russo will join its roster of on-air talent to host a new weekday baseball show launching in the spring of 2014, in addition to appearing across its studio programming. The new show will be produced by MLB Network and simulcast on MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM. MLB Network's studio show "MLB Tonight" is currently simulcast on MLB Network Radio weekdays at 6pm ET. In addition to hosting "Mad Dog Unleashed" daily, Russo will take on an expanded role that will feature him prominently on the MLB Network Radio channel on SiriusXM (channel 89 on XM, channel 209 on Sirius Premier and on the SiriusXM App). He will also serve as SiriusXM's "baseball ambassador," hosting shows and specials and appearing regularly on the channel to comment on MLB news and issues. "I've always loved the on-air freedom that comes with being on SiriusXM," says Russo. "I can do the kind of show here that I wouldn't be able to do anywhere else and I'm fortunate to be able to continue to give my listeners my kind of sports talk radio each and every day on Mad Dog Unleashed. I'll also get to emphasize my passion for baseball with my new role on MLB Network Radio and MLB Network, where I'll be talking to dyed-in-the-wool baseball fans like me throughout the year. This is a terrific opportunity that allows me to do what I do best, while also reaching new audiences." Says SiriusXM President and Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein, "Chris is a one-of-a-kind sports radio talent, one of the best in the history of the medium, and we're very pleased to keep him on SiriusXM for years to come. Our listeners will continue to get his unique style of sports talk-the biting commentary, the high profile interviews, the great rants-on a daily basis. And by expanding his role to the MLB Network Radio channel, we can better showcase his passion for baseball and his extraordinary knowledge of the sport. This will enhance our overall sports programming and increase his reach, and will be a benefit to both Chris and our listeners." 'Matt and Ramona' Renew at Charlotte's 'Link' WLNK-FM 
Greater Media has signed a multi-year deal with the afternoon "Matt and Ramona Show" at Hot AC "107.9 The Link" WLNK-FM, Charlotte, North Carolina. Matt Harris and Ramona Holloway joined the station as the afternoon show duo more than 12 years ago. "Matt and Ramona have done an amazing job in the afternoon drive slot on the station over the past 12 years," says Greater Media Charlotte VP and Market Manager Rick Feinblatt. "We are thrilled to be able to continue this exciting partnership and have them entertain our listeners for years to come." The show, based at WLNK-FM and owned by Greater Media, is syndicated on over 60 nationwide affiliates.
Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio
YMF Urban AC WBLS-FM, New York City, is bringing in comedian "Earthquake" to join current midday host Deja Vu for a new afternoon show beginning September 9. Earthquake takes over from Jeff Foxx who remains with the station for weekends. Earthquake is a familiar voice as a regular contributor to the Steve Harvey show, and has also filled in for Harvey ... Cody Robinson is named midday host at Adult Top 40 "Now 100.5" KZZO-FM, Sacramento. Robinson, who starts September 16, is coming in from weekends at Rhythmic CHR "Wired" WRDW-FM, Philadelphia ... Rhythmic CHR/Hip Hop "B95" KBOS-FM, Fresno, announces that Chris "CK" Hall has joined "The Juice Crew Morning Show" as co-host alongside Carmen. Hall, most recently on the air in Stockton, has hosted mornings in Portland and Tucson, and worked in San Francisco and Sacramento. Earlier in his career Hall worked part-time at "B95" ... Country WSM-FM, Nashville, moves morning co-host Lisa Manning back to afternoons replacing Jeff Lyon, who becomes morning producer for co-owned Country WKDF-FM. Co-host Rick Marino will now host WSM-FM mornings solo ... Former Chicago Bears eight year player Alex Brown joins the Chicago Bears pre-game show on "The Score" WSCR-AM, Chicago ... Clear Channel Indianapolis Director of Operations Buzz Casey exits ... Carol Vonn and Terry Love join Adult Standards/Nostalgia "1290 Martini Radio" WZTI-AM, Milwaukee. Vonn currently co-hosts the morning show on sister AC "B93.3" WLDB-FM, and will now also hosts the 10am-2pm on "Martini Radio" while Love takes the 3-7pm shift. Love was a personality on WZTI-AM when it was Urban Talk/Music hybrid WMCS-AM.
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"Local broadcasters and our network partners are committed to a national dialogue on mental health, ending the terrible stigma that surrounds this disease, and encouraging young people to get help for a health issue that can be successfully treated." The radio and TV PSAs direct people to OK2TALK.org, a Tumblr-based community where teens and young adults struggling with mental health problems can share personal stories of recovery, tragedy, struggle or hope. By inviting young people, their families and friends to add their voice in a safe, moderated space, the campaign encourages an organic conversation about mental health challenges and recovery stories. The site also includes resources for those seeking help. In addition to the thousands of broadcast stations that have committed airtime and financial resources in support of OK2TALK, partners in the effort include: Active Minds, Bring Change 2 Mind, Each Mind Matters, Entertainment Industries Council (EIC), Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), One Mind for Research and Tumblr.
the three organizations. The two-day course emphasized the specific needs of women in management roles, including enhancing their overall management knowledge and skills.
Courses were led by Susan Davenport Austin, Chairman, BMI Board of Directors/ Vice Chairman, Sheridan Broadcasting Corporation / President,
Sheridan Gospel Network; Lynn Anderson, CEO, Integrated Media Solutions Group; Beverlee Brannigan, VP of Radio Programming, Journal Broadcast Group; Sheena Calton, services coordinator, RAB; Lindsay Cerajewski, General Sales Manager, CBS Chicago; Erica Farber, President and CEO, RAB; Brandeis C. Hall, VP of Professional Development, RAB; Carol Hanley, EVP, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Arbitron; Weezie Kramer, Station Group President, Entercom Communications; Katerina Perez, VP sales, Seattle, Clear Channel; Kay Olin, partner, Olin & Associates / Chair of Alliance for Women in Radio; Danielle Outlaw, VP, Sales, Neuhoff Media; Dan Spears, VP, Licensing, BMI; Bud Walters, President & Owner, The Cromwell Group; Diane Warren, Founder, Bounceology.
Harris first teamed up with Holloway at WNVZ-FM in Virginia Beach in 2000. The next year, "The Matt and Ramona Show" was launched on Charlotte’s WLNK-FM. In the first two years, the team had gone from number eight to number one with the 25-54 adult demographic, doubling the average commercial rate in the time slot. The show is designed for contemporary music stations with a mix of music and conversations targeting a 25 to 44 year old audience. Each hour contains two to three songs. "The Matt and Ramona Show" has twice been honored by the critics and readers of Creative Loafing newspaper as Charlotte's best afternoon show. Ramona was also named Charlotte’s Best Radio Personality by Charlotte Magazine in 2003 and 2008. Ramona also won the Gracie Award for radio comedy in 2009. In addition to being on the air on WLNK-FM, Ramona also joined Colleen Odegaard as co-host of "Charlotte Today" on the market's NBC TV affiliate at the beginning of this year.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Tuesday's Radio & Media News - August 27, 2013
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SoundExchange Sues SiriusXM for Digital Royalty Underpayment 
SoundExchange is suing SiriusXM for underpaying digital royalties for music artists on recordings, including ones from before 1972. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, says that from 2007 through 2012, Sirius XM "systematically" underpaid SoundExchange for the statutory license that allows the service to air recordings to its millions of paying subscribers. SoundExchange claims the satellite radio service reduced by 10 to 15 percent the gross revenues it reports to calculate the royalties because that corresponded with performances of pre-1972 recordings. The royalty rate that would be charged against those gross revenues ranged from 6 percent in 2007 to 8 percent in 2012, according to SoundExchange. "We cannot sit by and watch this multi-billion dollar company reap record profits from the creative contributions of artists and labels without paying them everything they deserve," says SoundExchange CEO Michael Huppe in a statement. In the suit, filed Monday, SoundExchange says SiriusXM took the position that the statutory license established under federal law does not cover pre-1972 recordings. Sound recordings were not given federal copyright protection until 1972 and instead relied on state law for protection. The lawsuit also accuses SiriusXM of excluding from its revenue calculations money it earned from customers subscribing to its SiriusXM Premier package and of failing to make timely royalty payments. The lawsuit seeks $50 million to $100 million or more, along with appropriate late fees and interest. The case is SoundExchange Inc v. Sirius XM Radio Inc, U.S. District Court, District of Columbia, No. 13-01290. Good Signs for 2013 Radio Advertising Revenues? 
Is radio advertising revenue doing better this year than we thought? New York Market Radio (NYMRAD) reports radio advertising revenues increased 7.6% for the first five months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012. Meanwhile the Southern California Broadcasters Association (SCBA) reports a 3.8% gain in July advertising revenues. Both reports cite revenue reports from Miller Kaplan Arase.
Triton Digital: July Online Audio Listening Was Down 
Online streaming audio listening was down for July, according to Triton Digital's monthly Internet audio rankings, continuing the expected summer slump. The newly released July online audio Top 20 Ranker -- "a listing of the top-performing Internet audio stations and networks" based on Average Active Sessions -- shows Pandora again in the top Domestic Rankings position (AAS Monday-Friday 6am-8pm), but with a decline from 1.7 million AAS in June to 1.656 million in July. Session starts rose to 888.2 million from 814.9 million. Clear Channel was again ranked second, but with its AAS also down -- from 335,571 in June to 316,605 in July. The remainder of the top ten remained mostly unchanged for rankings. Slacker was third, followed by Cumulus, CBS Radio, NPR Member Stations, EMF Corporate, Cox Radio, and ESPN. Univision moved into the top ten. On Triton Digital's July All Streams Ranker (M-F, 6am-8pm), Clear Channel was again number one, but its AAS was down from 337,804 in June to 319,096. Prisa Radio remained in the second position, with the top ten rounded out by Slacker, Cumulus, CBS Radio, NPR, EMF Corporate, Karnaval.com, Cox and ESPN Audio. Salem Names Skip Stow Colorado Springs General Manager 
Salem Communications announces that Skip Stow has been named as General Manager of the company's Colorado Springs cluster of radio stations. "Skip brings over 30 years of media experience to Salem from his current position as General Manager for Townsquare Media in Amarillo, Texas," says the announcement. "He has also served in a variety of management roles for Tyler Media in Oklahoma City and Gannett in Kansas City and Dallas." Salem Radio Division President David Santrella tells us, "Skip brings a great deal of know-how and leadership to Salem. Colorado Springs is such an important market and we are delighted to have someone of Skip's experience to lead our team." Stow will begin with Salem on September 3.
Times-Shamrock Selling Off Some of Its Newspapers, 
Times-Shamrock Communications is selling off a number of its newspapers, with plans to use the proceeds to further invest in its radio properties. Up for sale are Times-Shamrock's five alternative weekly papers in Dallas, San Antonio, Cleveland, Orlando and Baltimore, as well as four daily newspapers in Pennsylvania, Virginia and the Virgin Islands. Times-Shamrock, based in Scranton, is the parent company of radio broadcaster Shamrock Communications, which owns stations in Scranton, Baltimore, Tulsa, Milwaukee and Reno. The sale process will be handled by Cribb, Greene and Associates, a Bozeman, Montana-based merger-and-acquisition firm. Managing Director John Cribb says the company is willing to sell the papers off individually or as a group, though the preference would be to sell them as a group. Cribb defined the process as being at “the initial stage” and a six-month schedule is typical for this sort of sale. Cribb says the company will be visiting newspaper sites involved in the potential sale and then will begin the process of marketing the properties and seeking potential buyers. A list will be created of potential buyers and presented to Times-Shamrock and negotiations will move along from there. 'Tim and Willy' Returning to Arizona Country Radio on Six Stations 
"Tim and Willy" -- Tim Hattrick and Willy D Loon -- along with Andrea Hiland, will return to the air with a morning show in Arizona on six signals across the state in a partnership with Skyview Networks. A little more than a year ago, "Tim and Willy" exited CBS Radio’s Country KMLE-FM, Phoenix, and haven't been heard on-air since, but that changes on September 16. Their new three-hour weekday morning show will be heard on Country stations "94.1 The Ride" KRDE-FM, San Carlos; KDAP-FM, Douglas; KZUZ-FM, Show Low; "Route 66 Radio" KINO-FM, Winslow; "Z92"KZUA-FM, Holbrook; and "K Triple J" KJJJ-FM, from Laughlin, Nevada. The show will also play 24/7 on an audio and video stream on TimAndWilly.com -- where they currently are announcing, "We are back!" They tell us that Skyview Networks -- "syndication specialist for talent seeking satellite distribution, national sales representation and state-of-the-art production" -- will provide the studio, radio satellite distribution, and production of the show's live web stream. "With Tim and Willy as talent and producers this time, the show aims to bring a friendly local feel to its listeners, with more personality, country music and an entertaining cast of characters," says Skyview. Hattrick tells us, "We’ve worked with some excellent people in our career. None better than Skyview! They told us: Dream the dream. We did, and together we’ve created the Tim and Willy Show we’ve always wanted." DJ Lynnwood and Sun Broadcast Group Partner for EDM Shows 
Sun Broadcast Group enters into a national sales representation agreement with DJ Lynnwood for Electronic Dance Music (EDM) shows for national distribution on broadcast radio station. The content, we're told, is designed and custom tailored for CHR/Top 40, Rhythmic CHR, Hot AC and Dance formats. Stations will be able to choose from "The Mix Show" weekend two-hour Mainstream Mix of today's dance music hits and remixes, or the "Earthquake Mix" two-hour weekend show for EDM loyalists. "Electronic Dance Music has exploded onto the American music scene and festivals are held year round, pulling in millions of dollars for both disc jockeys and concert promoters," says Sun Broadcast Group EVP Steve Gallagher. "We are thrilled to be working with DJ Lynnwood, a pioneer of EDM and world renowned in Dance Music. He has been associated with some of the top performers in the industry, including Beyonce, Enrique Iglasias, Alanis Morisette, Paul Oakenfold and others." DJ Lynnwood tells us, "In this highly competitive PPM world where content is king, I am excited to be working with Sun Broadcast Group and their group of experts. I live EDM, it's what I do every day and at least three nights a week. This billion-dollar 'underground' genre is exploding into mainstream pop culture. I am thrilled that Steve Gallagher and his team are ready to champion our progressive products to my friends at radio." Beasley ASU Media Complex Officially Opens 
Beasley Broadcast Group tells us that the George G. Beasley Media complex has officially opened on the Appalachian State University (ASU) campus in Boone, North Carolina. The state-of-the-art broadcasting complex is named for Beasley Broadcast’s Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer George Beasley, an ASU alumnus. He received an undergraduate degree in 1958 and completed his Master of Arts in educational administration in 1960 at the school. He tells us, “I not only envision Appalachian being one of the top schools in communications in North Carolina, I think that over the next few years it will become the premier school of broadcast communications in the Southeast and maybe one of the top 5 in America…This building isn’t about George Beasley and his family, it’s about the many hundreds of students we expect to come through this building.” The complex is an 18,000 square-foot media facility that houses the Department of Communication’s radio and television studios, classrooms, labs and faculty offices. The department’s 24-hour, student-managed radio station is WASU-FM (90.5). . NAB Deputy General Counsel Valerie Schulte Retires 
After more than three decades of service, NAB Deputy General Counsel Valerie Schulte is retiring from the organization, Friday (Aug. 30). Since joining the NAB in 1980, Schulte has worked on many of the most important issues before the FCC for free and local broadcasters -- including children's television regulations, the digital TV transition, digital radio issues and legal issues related to satellite radio. Says NAB EVP of Communications Dennis Wharton, "The NAB family wishes Valerie nothing but the best in her retirement." And from us in the radio industry, thanks for 33 great years of service, Valerie! Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio
Ron Ahern returns to the CBS Radio Pittsburgh cluster as Creative Services Director for Adult Top 40 "100.7 Star" WBZZ-FM and Country "Y108" WDSY-FM. Ahern previously worked as creative assistant and producer at the cluster. In his new role, he replaces Drake Donovan, who left earlier this summer to focus on his voiceover company, through which he continues as the station voice for "Y108" ... After eight years, morning show host Helen Glover is out at Clear Channel Talk WHJJ-AM, Providence. Glover says her replacement will be Ron St. Pierre, who was laid off by crosstown rival WPRO-AM in February ... Cox Media Group's Hot Talk "102.5 The Bone" WHPT-FM, Tampa, ousts two longtime personalities -- Matt "Spice" Loyd, host of night staple "The Spice Show" and overnight (3-5am) host Chris Fisher ... CHR/Top 40 WPST-FM, Trenton, NJ, APD/MD and afternoon host Matt Sneed exits after 12 years with the station ... Assistant PD/Music Director and on-air host Darren Rose exits Alternative KYSR-FM, Los Angeles, after six years with the station ... Clear Channel Panama City Operations Manager Gary Nolan exits ...Rhythmic KKUU-FM, Palm Springs, Program Director Clarence Barnes exits ... Hot AC "Star 94.1" WSTR-FM, Atlanta, brings in Mike Marino from CHR/Top 40 WHTI-FM, Richmond, Virginia, to host afternoons starting in September. Marino replaces Sari Rose, who remains with the station. Marino most recently was WHTI-FM's Program Director and afternoon host ... Classic Rock "Rock 107" WEZX-FM, Wilkes Barre-Scranton, morning host Dave Direnzo exits. Former morning host Eric Logan returns to mornings - now as "The Prospector" ... Rhythmic CHR "Power 98.3" KKFR-FM, Phoenix adds Dee Garcia to mornings with MC Magic. Garcia previously was at Hot AC clustermate "My103.9" KEXX-FM.
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But those are the top two markets. The RAB recently reported that radio ad revenues for the first half of 2013 were "flat" compared to the same prior year period, and many analysts have said to expect an overall 2013 increase of only one to two percent.
Nevertheless, we in the radio industry continue to seek out good news, or hopes of same, concerning revenue, and both New York and Southern California (including Los Angeles) give us some encouragement. "It’s quite a story to see New York Radio Market Revenues up by over 7% year to date through May 2013," says NYMRAD Executive Director Deborah Beagan. "That’s the fastest growth among the Top 10 markets in what is -- outside of New York -- a flat growth scenario nationwide. The key to New York Market Radio’s success is live and local content that engages the audience. For the 92% of New Yorkers who listen to Radio, this is their hometown and their favorite stations. In addition, New York Market Radio stations have significantly invested in the digital arena to provide multiplatform options to advertisers. The future of effective advertising lies in the smart integration of traditional and digital media. I am extremely enthusiastic about the second half of 2013." Says SCBA President Thom Callahan, "Our reported revenue for July 2013 made it another banner month for Southern California radio. According to Miller Kaplan, Los Angeles advertising revenue was up 3.8 percent over July 2012 with eight of the top 10 advertiser categories growing over the same period." On a year to date basis, "Education was up 41.5 percent, transportation was up 32.6 percent, department stores/shopping centers up 40.7 percent, and appliances/electronics up 82.8 percent." Callahan adds, “Beyond the impressive 3.8 percent overall growth, the real story to July's successful report is new business. On a YTD basis, Southern California radio attracted an astounding 485 new clients who invested a record $30,550,000 through July 2013."