Cadillac Jack Named Greater Media Boston Director of Programming

Veteran radio programmer "Cadillac Jack" McCartney is named Director of Programming at Greater Media Boston. He officially begins his new position on Monday (Jan. 7). McCartney recently exited Clear Channel New York where he'd been VP of Programming, saying he had a new opportunity "to be announced." This is a return to the Boston radio market for McCartney, who spent over 20 years there programming both "Jam'n" WJMN-FM and "Kiss" WXKS-FM, and overseeing the entire Clear Channel Boston cluster before moving to the New York cluster. Says Greater Media Boston Market Manager Rob Williams, "I have been fortunate to work with many of the best programmers in our business, and Cadillac ranks at the top. It is Greater Media's good fortune to attract an all-star talent like Cadillac. As a program director, manager, strategic thinker, and leader, he is the best. Like Cadillac, Greater Media has a tremendous heritage of success in Boston radio and I am excited to work together on writing another great chapter." Greater Media VP of Program Development Buzz Knight tells us, "I'm excited that Cadillac will be joining our fantastic team of Greater Media Programmers. In our relentless pursuit of excellence we're always looking for creative and strategic brand managers and Cadillac's track record speaks for itself. He's one of the best minds in the business and I look forward to working with him to make our already strong Boston cluster even stronger." And says MvCartney, "A month ago, I would have bet anything I’d be on my way to Rwanda right now for some gorilla tracking and a good dose of rest and relaxation. Today, I’m outrageously happy that instead, I'm able to rejoin and partner with the very best manager in the radio industry, Rob Williams in Boston’s newly-created Director of Programming position." He adds, "The more I learn about Greater Media, the more I am attracted to the world-class company and culture Peter Smyth has built. As we begin 2013, I’m re-energized and eager to begin work with Rob, Peter, Buzz Knight and the entire team at Greater Media Boston, building upon past successes and charting new courses for many, many years to come."

Meanwhile, one station that "Cadillac Jack" is expected to directly program -- the new permanent format at WTKK-FM -- continues stunting. See our latest update on that saga further down on this page as "Mike" replaces "Nova" which replaced "Power" which replaced "News Talk 96.9" earlier this week.

Dave Fogel Becomes New 'K-Hits' Chicago Morning Host

Back in October we reported that Dave Fogel had resurfaced at "104.3 K-Hits" WJMK-FM, Chicago, filling in on evenings after being ousted from mornings at crosstown Classic Hits competitor WLS-FM. At the time, Fogel's status at WJMK-FM was "temporary," but we were told he could become a permanent host at "K-Hits." Now the Classic Hits station names him the new 5-9am morning host. Fogel replaces "Eddie and Jobo" in mornings at "K-Hits" (or, as they prefer, "K-HiTS"). The station has been running jockless for the past month since Ed Volkman and Joe Bohannon were ousted after 20 months because of weak ratings. Says WJMK-FM Program Director Todd Cavanah, "Dave's natural energy and enthusiasm for the 60's, 70's and 80's music we play makes him perfect for K-Hits. We know our listeners will love waking up with Dave Fogel." Fogel tells us, "I love every song K-Hits plays. It's going to be easy to get up at five in the morning to play them on the radio. Who needs coffee?" Fogel's Chicago radio background also includes Classic Rock "The Loop" WLUP-FM, and Hot AC "The Mix" WTMX-FM. This marks a return for Fogel to CBS Radio, which operates WJMK-FM. He worked for them in Kansas City when he was the morning host at KCKC-FM, before coming to Chicago in 1996, and before CBS Radio sold KCKC-FM to Wilks Broadcasting.

Boston's WTKK-FM Continues Stunting

Update: January 8 -- This turned out to be the final stunt format, continuing from Saturday through Tuesday morning when the new Rhythmic "Hot 96.9" launched as WTKK-FM's real new format. When last we updated this saga January 7, we noted that the Classic Rock stunt format continued for a third day, Monday, after a second day Sunday. Also of note, we've discovered that if you click the links for any of the stunt formats, it will redirect you to the new "Hot 96.9" website.
January 6: "Mike" gave up, and "Classic Rock That Really Rocks" took over Saturday, as everyone wondered what was next -- and if the new permanent format was going to be revealed and launched after the weekend. How did we find the (temporary) Classic Rock version of 96.9 FM? "Mike" sent us there (with a redirect). The Classic Rock stunt was the fourth in the growing series since "News Talk 96.9" came to an end. What about Sunday's format du jour? Breaking the trend of one-day stunts, the Classic Rock format continued. Although not on the splash screen, that format is being billed as "The Bone" in on-air imaging, and in the browser title line that is seen when visiting the latest stunt's web page.

January 4: And now WTKK-FM is Jack-like Adult Variety Hits "Mike FM" and is "Playing Anything We Feel Like" as the station goes into a third day of stunting. "Mike" launched at noon Friday (Jan. 4) playing The Standells' "Dirty Water." Except for legal IDs, "Mike" thinks his call letters are WMKK. He also seems to have an identity confusion, using the format of Greater Media's Philadelphia "Ben FM" WBEN-FM, while insisting it is "Mike." The latest stunt format is online at www.969MikeFM.com. With rumors confirmed that "Cadillac Jack" McCartney would be programming the new permanent format at the former News Talk station, and a star morning host announced, will the new permanent format be launched by Monday (Jan. 7)? Some believe that "Mike FM" could be the final stunt format before the "real deal" is unveiled. The official word from Greater Media seems to suggest, though that more stunts are still coming: "We'll have more surprises throughout the upcoming days!" Or does that mean the new actual format and the debut of Pebbles in mornings? Speculation continues that the new format will be Rhythmic CHR "96.9 The Beat" going head-to-head with Clear Channel's crosstown Rhythmic CHR "Jam'n 94.5" WJMN-FM.

"Power 96.9" at WTKK-FM, Boston, was indeed a stunt, and now the former "News Talk 96.9" is stunting as "Nova 96.9" featuring electronic dance music. The word is that this is only the second of a series of stunts before the station's real new format is eventually launched. Quite a few different possibilities for the actual new format are being suggested by various "sources" who each claim to have an inside track on what's planned when the stunting ends. "Nova 96.9" is online here. Wednesday, we were told "Power 96.9" was the new format after "News Talk 96.9" ended. But this turns out to be an ongoing and developing report. What is Greater Media saying today (Jan. 3)? "The transformation of the new 96.9 FM continued today at 10am with the launch of Nova, Boston’s new electronic dance music (EDM) station. Plan on more surprises to be unveiled throughout the week! Stay tuned." We did, Wednesday, report that there was some genuine skepticism about the "Power" format with a number of people believing it was a stunt. Among Wednesday's News Updates we have an item billboarded, "Some are questioning if 'Power 96.9' is the real new format at Boston's WTKK-FM – or just a stunt" citing a Northeast Radio Watch post at Facebook, 'Could this be day 1 of a series of stunts?' suggesting the wording of Greater Media's news release could mean there might still be other stunts to come before an actual new format debuts." (That report remains among the Jan. 2 News Updates.) What follows is what we've reported previously here since the New Year's Day news release from Greater Media Boston confirmed the News Talk format would end.

'Power 96.9' Replaces 'News Talk 96.9' in Boston

Greater Media replaces "News Talk 96.9" WTKK-FM, Boston, with "Power 96.9" billed as "Boston's Hip Hop and R&B station." The new format was launched Wednesday (Jan. 2) at 10am ET, immediately following the final "Jim and Margery Show" which ended the station's 13-year run as a News Talk outlet. The format flip comes just one-day after Greater Media Boston officially confirmed that a change of format would occur. They now tell us, "Get ready for an exciting week of music on the air at 96.9 FM in Boston. Live and local, the new 96.9 promises to bring a fun new sound to the Boston community. Beginning today, 96.9 FM returns to music with Power 96.9, Boston’s Hip Hop and R&B station with more surprises to take place during the upcoming week. Stay tuned!" The new "Power 96.9" is online at Power969.com with a splash screen displaying the new logo and a link to listen to the new station. The first song played as the new format was launched was Rihanna's "Diamonds." That followed a musical final goodbye from the morning hosts with Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" which suddenly ended, followed by a brief pause and the start of the new format.

Our January 1 report follows:

Confirmed: Boston's WTKK-FM to Change Format

After much speculation and many rumors, Greater Media confirms that "News Talk 96.9" WTKK-FM will change its format to music-based programming, although they didn't say which music format would be launched. Initially, Greater Media had denied a change in format was coming, then began just declining comment. Now, says the company, "The change comes after much careful consideration of the direction of the station's format and overall ratings over the past several years." According to Greater Media Boston, morning hosts Jim Braude and Margery Eagan will do one final show Wednesday morning (Jan. 2), before the plug is pulled on the News Talk format. "Jim and Margery" will have the chance to say goodbye to their audience, and take calls from listeners and past on-air contributors. Says Greater Media Boston Market Manager Rob Williams, "We would like to thank Jim Braude, Margery Eagan, Michael Graham and the entire News Talk 96.9 WTKK-FM staff for their many contributions to the station and Talk Radio format over the years in Boston. They are true professionals and we are very grateful to them." There was still a question as to whether News Talk would end at 10am after the morning show or if Wednesday would be a full last day for the "News Talk 96.9" format, which started in 1999. A news release from Greater Media concluded with: "What's next for the dial position in Boston? Stay tuned!"

Veteran Boston Personality Pebbles Gets 96.9 FM Mornings

We may not yet know the permanent new format of Greater Media's WTKK-FM, Boston, but we now know that the station has signed veteran market personality Pebbles to host mornings. That may give a clue as to what new format will eventually be revealed. Pebbles exited crosstown Clear Channel Rhythmic CHR "Jam'n 94.5" WJMN-FM last month. That's where she long co-hosted mornings with Ramiro Torres. In addition to co-hosting mornings, Pebbles, who spent 17 years at WJMN-FM, also served as a news anchor, traffic reporter and entertainment reporter. Says Pebbles, "I am beyond thrilled to become a member of the Greater Media family, and am extremely grateful to [Greater Media Market Manager] Rob Williams for giving me the opportunity to continue my journey in radio doing what I love. I am deeply thankful for the support of the listeners who have followed my career over the years and I hope that they will continue to support me in my new venture." Williams tells us, "Pebbles has been a consistent top performer in Boston radio for years. I had the pleasure to work with her at 'Jam'n' and I was pleasantly surprised that she was available to join our team as we launch our new station on 96.9 FM. Her on-air talents, her commitment to working in the Boston community, and her incredible personality make a rare combination." We hear that :Pebbles is already in the building at WTKK-FM preparing for her new morning show. And we bet she knows what is the new format to launch when the current stunting finally ends.

Mark Simone Exits NYC's WABC-AM, Joins Crosstown WOR-AM

Veteran New York City radio talk personality Mark Simone, in an unexpected move, is going from WABC-AM to Clear Channel’s WOR-AM. Simone just resigned from Cumulus' WABC-AM, and now he confirms he's joining the crosstown Talk rival under its new ownership. Simone, who says he will be hosting 10am-12noon on his new station, is known nationally for his frequent fill-ins for Sean Hannity, Mark Levin and Don Imus. He calls the move a "very tough decision" but says he’s lured by the "major transformation" underway at WOR-AM. Simone's WOR-AM signing follows the addition of the "John and Ken Show" from Clear Channel's KFI-AM, Los Angeles, and the renewal of "The Dave Ramsey Show." At WABC, Simone has been hosting a Saturday night show and handling fills.

Greg Janoff Joins Townsquare Media as NJ RVP

Greg Janoff joins Townsquare Media as New Jersey Regional VP, replacing Zoe Burdine-Fly who moved to Clear Channel Chicago. Janoff, most recently EVP of Revenue for Merlin Media, was previously in management at CBS Radio's All News WINS-AM, New York, where he was a General Manager, Director of Sales and General Sales Manager during 14 years at the station. He originally joined Merlin as VP of Sales when the company launched. He exited the Randy Michaels-led company after 17 months when it ceased operations in New York City with the sale of its one station there to CBS Radio.

News Briefs

Classic Hits 'Earth 105.7' Debuts in Spartanburg SC
Davidson Media's WOLI-AM, Spartanburg, South Carolina, flips from "Yahoo! Sports Radio 910" to Classic Hits "Earth 105.7" playing "The Greatest Hits on Earth" under the operation of Earth Radio Broadcasting. The 105,7 is the frequency of WOLI-AM's upgraded FM translator W289BS. The translator has been moved from Greer, SC, to Spartanburg and increased power from 100 watts to 250 watts. Earth Radio Broadcasting is a group led by former WFBC-FM, Greenville, and WMYI-FM, Hendersonville, morning hosts Bill Love and Howard Hudson, and former WROQ-FM, Anderson, General Manager Bob Nations. Love and Hudson will host mornings on "Earth 105.7" joined by K.C. Carson. Also announced, Lee Alexander will host middays, and Craig Debolt, who is also Operations Manager for licensee Davidson Media, will host afternoons. WOLI-AM, we're told, will continue to air Wofford College football and basketball which has been broadcast with the "Yahoo! Sports Radio 910" format.

Gene Valicenti Named WPRO-AM/Providence Morning Host
Cumulus "News Talk 630 and 99.7" WPRO-AM and WEAN-FM, Providence, brings in veteran newsman Gene Valicenti as the new 6-9am morning host.. He replaces eight-year host Tara Granahan, who is named Assistant PD. “The WPRO Morning News with Gene Valicenti" begins Monday (Jan. 7). Valicenti is a popular TV news anchor and personality, who has also hosted "The Gene Valicenti Show" on Saturday mornings on WPRO-AM since 2010. He tells us, "Rhode Island has been waking up to WPRO since the days of Salty Brine. It goes without saying that hosting the WPRO Morning News is a real honor for me.” Says Cumulus SVP of Programming Mike McVay, "We are very pleased to welcome Gene Valicenti to WPRO-AM. The addition of Gene to the lineup is an important part of Cumulus’ commitment to providing compelling live and local talk programming to Rhode Island and the Southern New England listeners.”

Blueberry Broadcasting Debuts Maine Classic Hits Trimulcast
Blueberry Broadcasting begins a Classic Hits trimulcast in Maine as “Big 104.” Longtime Maine radio personality Mike Dow teams with Deb Neuman for a morning show. The new Classic Hits format is airing on Blueberry flagship WABK-FM, Augusta, plus WBAK-FM, Bangor, and newly acquired WBKA-FM, Bar Harbor, which previously was Classical WBQI-FM. Dow previously worked with market veteran Mike Elliott -- now at Blueberry’s Country “The Bear” WBFB-FM -- at Blueberry’s AC "Kiss 94.5" WKSQ-FM, Bangor, until this past October.

Memphis' '95.3 The Rebel' Names Randy Marsh Program Director
Country "95.3 The Rebel" WVIM-FM, Memphis, names Randy "R.J. McCoy" Marsh to be the station's new Program Director and afternoon host, replacing Tom Freeman, who moves to sales. Previously, Marsh was with Beasley's "Kiss Country" WKIS-FM, Miami, where he was morning and afternoon host, Assistant PD and Program Director, at various points during his time there. He's also been Operations Manager for Waitt Radio's four-station Panama City cluster. WVIM-FM's new lineup includes former Country WFRE-FM, Frederick, Maryland, Program Director Jess Wright in middays and former Country WOKK-FM, Meridian, Mississippi, afternoon host Mike Adams in evenings. Former midday host Art Fredrick remains with the company in a different capacity.

Coachella Valley's 'Eagle 106.9' Introduces New Morning Show
Desert Radio Group's "The Eagle 106.9" KDGL-FM, Coachella Valley, California, introduces its new morning show -- "Chad and Cristy in the Morning" with Chad Benson and Cristy Westfall. They take over after "Mark and Brian" ended their show. Benson is a stand-up comedian, talk show and radio host with more than 20 years in broadcasting, much of that in Los Angeles radio. Westfall comes to KDGL-FM from San Diego radio. Desert Radio Group General Manager Jay White tells us, "We're very fortunate to have found both Chad and Cristy. We knew we couldn't replace Mark and Brian with any other syndicated show, but we spoke to all of them. In the end, we needed to be live and local. The Eagle's audience expects the best morning show in the desert and Chad and Cristy intend to deliver just that."

Bobby Rich Re-Ups with Tucson's 'Mix'
Journal Broadcast Group Tucson tells us that AC "94.9 Mix FM" KMXZ-FM morning host Bobby Rich extends with the station with a new multi-year contract that comes just before his 20th anniversary with the Tucson station. Says Operations manager Shaun Holly, "Bobby has been the leading force behind Mix FM's ratings success since 1993 and is the most visible radio personality in the city. This is a great day for the station and enables us to continue to serve Mix FM's listeners, clients and community leaders with the best in morning radio." Rich, meanwhile, tells us, "I get to continue doing what I love at a radio station I love, in a town I love, with people I love. Also I'm not really qualified to do anything else! It’s all about continuing our 'good, clean fun' for Mix FM listeners and I could not be more blessed."

Conclave Webinar to Focus on Helping Downsized Radio Pros Get Next Job
The Conclave is reminding broadcasters of its next webinar, Wednesday (Jan. 9), with Jacobs Media Director of Digital and Social Strategies Lori Lewis. As we previously reported (in a more in-depth item), she will "inform webinar attendees on recommendations to engage hiring managers into your social media circle, increasing your opportunity for that next job. In this hour long webinar you will you learn five ways to help increase your chances of landing that new position. Also the content that potential employers look for in your social media profile that could stop your job chances dead in its tracks, along with profile postings that reflect positively on you." The January 9 session is set for 2pm CT. For more info, visit www.theconclave.com.

NPR News Announces Newsmagazine Hosts Appointments
NPR News announces new appointments for three of its newsmagazine hosts. Michele Norris returns from a leave of absence to take an expanded role as a host and special correspondent. Audie Cornish will stay on as co-host of "All Things Considered" and Rachel Martin anchors "Weekend Edition Sunday." Norris returns to the air fulltime in February, Cornish and Martin have been serving as interim hosts of their programs.

Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio

AC "V100" WVAF-FM and Classic Hits WKAZ-AM, Charleston, Program Director Jeff Adams is promoted to Operations Manager for the West Virginia Radio Corporation's full seven-station Charleston cluster ... Veteran programmer Lenny Diana is named Program Director at Rock "94.3 The Shark" WWSK-FM, Long Island ... Cumulus CHR-Top40 "107.1 A1A" WAOA-FM, Melbourne, Florida, adds Elaina as the new co-host of their morning show, joining station veteran Timmy Vee after co-hosting mornings in San Diego ... Program Director Mark Richards exits Country "Kicks 101.5" WKHX-FM, Atlanta, after close to a decade there ... Saga Des Moines Production Director.Brian Whitaker is promoted to Imaging Director for all the FMs in the cluster. He will also be imaging Milwaukees new Rhythmic CHR "Energy 106.9" WNRG-FM ... Country WIRK-FM, West Palm Beach, Florida, morning host Jeff Elliot exits and is seeking a new gig ... Sandusky Radio Seattle promotes Maynard to cluster Operations Manager. Maynard was previously Program Director of CHR-Top40 "Movin 92.5" KQMV-FM and Hot AC "Click 98.9" KLCK-FM. He will report to cluster VP and General Manager Marc Kaye ... Gene and Julie exit mornings at AC "103.7 Lite FM" KVIL-FM, Dallas, after eight years, after their contract was not renewed. Tony Zazza will host mornings on an interim basis ... Eric Sean Casucci exits as Assistant PD and night host at Rhythmic CHR "Hot 98.1" WHZT-FM,Greenville, SC, with plans to move back to California where he hopes to find a new radio opportunity ... AC "Soft Rock 98.9" KSOF-FM, Fresno, names Dave Thomson as the new morning show host ... At Alternative Rock KFMA-FM, Tucson, station veteran and night host "Creepy Pete" McNair is promoted to Music Director and midday host ... "102.7 EQX - The Real Alternative" WEQX-FM, Manchester, Vermont, also serving Albany, NY, promotes morning show host and Music Director Jeff Morad to Assistant PD. He's been with the station since 2009 ... Program Director and afternoon host Dan Thomas exits Classic Rock "105.1 The Blaze" KKBZ-FM, Fresno.

Veteran Texas Broadcaster Dick Siegel Dies at 73

Veteran Texas radio personality Dick Siegel has died of a heart attack at the age of 73. Reports from Texas say he stopped at a convenience store on his way home from "Oldies Radio 104.9" KLDE-FM, Eldorado, where he most recently worked, and collapsed. Paramedics were unable to revive him. For over 20 years, he had been half of the team of "Hal and Dick" with Hal Jay on WBAP, Dallas, from 1981-2003. While providing traffic information from his helicopter, Siegel was part of the "Sam From Sales" comedy bits that aired for many years on the station. "He really got into it, he loved the work," says Hal Jay. "I loved working with him. We had a great time. Great memories." Jay says the on-air repertoire the two shared was completely spontaneous, but Siegel prepared like no other. "He prepared what he did on the air more than everyone I ever knew," says Jay. "He had everything written down on a 3-by-5 index card: his one-liners, his jokes...everything. We're talking about 20-30 index cards each day, and we were doing morning and afternoon in those days." Siegel had retired, but became bored with that, and greatly missed radio. He then began a morning show on KLDE-FM in June 2008 and worked there until his death.

Richard Lewis Takes Over as Clear Channel Philadelphia Market President

As we previously reported Clear Channel has appointed Richard Lewis as Market President for its six station cluster in Philadephia. Back on December 20, it may have gotten lost as a secondary report with the announcement of a new assignment for Dennis Lamme (Washington DC/Baltimore) who Lewis was replacing in Philly, so now Clear Channel issues a new news release on Lewis' appointment. Lewis is promoted from within the Philadelphia cluster, where he most recently was VP of Sales as well as a Sales Category Captain for the Retail Category Division. He's been in the broadcast industry since 1975 and with Clear Channel since 1992. Lewis previously served as Market Manager for Clear Channel’s Harrisburg and Allentown markets, as well as holding the position in Philadelphia from 2001 through 2005. In his new role, Lewis will report to Clear Channel Media and Entertainment President of Operations for Major Markets Tom Schurr.

Research Director Celebrates 20 Years

Research Director is celebrating 20 Years. "It was 20 years ago on January 4 that a group of researchers, Arbitron experts, and radiophiles converged to create a company that would help radio stations understand and exploit their ratings information. Thus, Research Director, Inc. was born," says the company. "Over the years we have had the pleasure of working with some great people -- both on our staff and at some of America’s best radio stations and groups. It has been a great ride and we could not have done it without you. Thank you for your continued support and here’s to another 20 years!" Managing Partner Marc Greenspan says it has been a team effort: "Our success is due to the dedicated efforts of our terrific staff, several of whom have been with us for more than 10 years. We're also incredibly grateful for the support we've received from so many long-term clients over the past two decades. We're looking forward to continuing to provide them with the excellent customer service experience they've come to expect from the team at Research Director, Inc." Based in Annapolis, Maryland, the company performs ratings analysis for client stations, finding the most impactful sales stories and presenting the information graphically and persuasively. The company also provides analysis for programmers, using its proprietary Instant Answer, Hot Zip Code Report, Ratings Booster, and Diary Review Analysis services.

Cumulus Signs with Arbitron

Cumulus Media signs a multi-year agreement with Arbitron for diary and PPM radio ratings services for all 450 Cumulus stations in the 100 radio markets currently surveyed by Arbitron in which Cumulus has stations. "We are pleased to have Cumulus once again as a subscriber to Arbitron's radio ratings services in each of its Arbitron-measured markets," says Arbitron President and CEO Sean Creamer. "Cumulus is using multiple platforms to reach listeners and engage consumers and Arbitron has a robust suite of technologies and methodologies that we can leverage to help Cumulus demonstrate the power of its radio brand."

The agreement provides Cumulus stations in 44 diary markets access to the Arbitron radio ratings service for the first time in more than three years. It also renews ratings agreements in 17 PPM markets and 39 diary markets. In addition to diary and PPM local market ratings, the agreement also provides Cumulus with access to Arbitron software applications, Scarborough consumer profile services, and national and network radio ratings for Cumulus Media Networks. Cumulus has also agreed to collaborate with Arbitron on cross-platform services that would quantify the total impact of the Cumulus radio brand. "With this agreement, Arbitron and Cumulus are demonstrating a long-term commitment to collaborate for the benefit of the radio industry," says Cumulus Chairman and CEO Lew Dickey. "We will work closely with Arbitron on its ongoing quality and service enhancement initiatives. Specifically, we look forward to participating in the development of an integrated, total radio audience service that gives broadcasters full credit for our audiences regardless of how listeners access our content."

FCC Approves Liberty Media Application for SiriusXM Control

Liberty Media moves closer to taking control of SiriusXM, with the FCC granting approval of Liberty's request to assume the satcaster's broadcast licenses. The FCC has approved the transfer of control of SiriusXM's licenses to Liberty, which informed the Commission last spring it was aiming to take over the satcaster. Throughout 2012, Liberty gradually increased its share of SiriusXM stocks.

Liberty has said that it planned to convert preferred securities, as well as buy more shares, to own more than 50 percent of SiriusXM's common stock, within 60 days of gaining FCC approval of the license transfer. Last summer, Liberty Media's John Malone confirmed that once his company gains control of SiriusXM, it plans to spin the satcaster off to a new owner. The FCC approval comes five months after the deal was filed at the Commission. Liberty has already installed Jim Meyer as Interim CEO to replace Mel Karmazin.

Home Depot Was Radio's 2012 Top Advertiser

As Media Monitors releases its listing of the top radio advertisers for 2012, The Home Depot is reported to have been radio's number one advertiser of the year. The top 2011 radio advertiser, Geico, slipped to number two for 2012. The Home Depot was number two in 2011.
The 2012 Top 10 radio advertisers, according to Media Monitors, with the number of radio spots aired:
l. The Home Depot - 2,093,047
2. Geico Berkshire Hathaway - 1,937,625
3. McDonald's - 1,366,786
4. AutoZone - 990,822
5. Wal-Mart Stores - 802,351
6. Lowe's Companies - 786,490
7. State Farm Insurance Co. - 770,512
8. Macy's - 613,485
9. Subway - 606,883
10. Walgreens - 597,840

Triton Digital Re-Aligns Organizational Structure

Triton Digital re-aligns its organizational structure "to simplify and centralize all publisher and advertiser-related initiatives." The company tells us, "All agency and advertiser-facing activity will now be managed at the enterprise level under President of Market Development John Rosso. Similarly, all publisher-facing activity will now be managed centrally by President of Publisher Development Dominick Milano. In addition, Patrick Reynolds expands his strategic role as Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer." Triton Digital says that the new simplified structure enables Triton to more efficiently build and deliver new technology and services to meet the demand of the fast growing streaming audio market. The streaming audio market is projected to reach $2 billion by 2015. With the changes, Triton expects to accelerate market growth to further support its expanding customer base. Says Triton Digital COO Mike Agovino, "2012 was successful in that we expanded our relationship with market leaders like CBS, Cumulus and Pandora, while entering into relationships with exciting new clients like Microsoft and NPR. As we look to 2013, with these changes implemented, we now have the best structure, alignment of assets and organizational focus to optimize the upcoming opportunities in 2013 and beyond."

WEEI Adds New Affiliate to Its New England Sports Radio Network

"Sports Radio WEEI 93.7 FM" tells us that effective January 4, WZEI 101.5 FM will become the eighth WEEI affiliate across New England. "Licensed to Meredith, New Hampshire, WZEI-FM is a Class A FM station with 6,000 watts of power, and covers the counties of Concord, Laconia, Meredith, North Conway and Plymouth, New Hampshire." Entercom Boston VP and Market Manager Jeff Brown says, "Adding an eighth WEEI affiliate truly validates our flagship station's strength in programming and leading sports coverage. Entercom is proud to extend the WEEI footprint to listeners in the northern New Hampshire market as we kick off 2013." WZEI-FM will broadcast the entire WEEI weekday lineup. WZEI-FM joins these WEEI affiliates across New England: WVEI 103.7 FM Providence; WVEI 1440 AM Worcester; WWEI 105.5 FM Springfield; WPEI 95.9 FM Portland, ME; WPPI 95.5 FM Portland, ME; WEII 96.3 FM Cape Cod; and WEEY 93.5 FM Keene, NH. "We are very excited to bring coverage of everything New England sports to the Lakes Region of New Hampshire with 101.5 WZEI," says Great Eastern Radio CEO Jeff Shapiro. "Great Eastern Radio and WEEI have a great partnership that has been key to great sports programming in northern New England for the past few years, and we look forward to extending that for years to come!" Entercom Boston VP of Programming and Operations Jason Wolfe adds, "I'm thrilled that we are able to bring the WEEI brand to the New England sports fans of central and northern New Hampshire. WZEI-FM will reach upwards of 300,000 listeners throughout the Lakes Region and we will continue to work very hard every day, to provide them with a most entertaining and compelling product."

The Conclave Opens Rockwell Award Nominations

The Conclave opens nominations for the Rockwell Award. "Since 1989, the Conclave has presented The Rockwell Award -- an annual lifetime achievement award -- to an individual of unquestioned accomplishment in the radio industry," says a news release. "This year, the Conclave once again reaches out to the entire industry to help select nominees for this important recognition to be presented at the Conclave Learning Conference July 17-19, at the Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis/Park Place." Conclave Executive Director Bob Shannon tells us, "The Rockwell Award is our highest honor and recognizes individuals whose contributions to the American Media are exceptional. Once again we're reaching out to the industry for nominations." According to the official announcement: "What does the Conclave look for in a Rockwell Award recipient? A person who is not just an inspirational leader, but a person of great accomplishment -- one who teaches and guides others directly, by example, or both. The successful nominee has made lasting and significant contributions not just inside the industry, but to the public the industry serves." The Rockwell nomination guidelines are: Any member of the industry may nominate one or more persons for the Rockwell award: a syndicated or local talent, a single market or national programmer, a general manager or group owner, a production or promotion professional, V/O talent, etc.; All nominations must be accompanied by supporting evidence sufficiently detailed for the Conclave Board to render a decision (e.g., a resume; accounts of industry accomplishment; testimonials from individuals or organizations regarding the nominee’s body of work and contribution, etc.); Nominations will be accepted by email to Bob Shannon bob@theconclave.com and must be accompanied by the nominating person's name and contact information. Deadline for submissions is 12midnight, January 31. Upon receipt of nominations, members of the Conclave Board of Directors will meet to weigh the merits of each nominated party and will make a final determination of 2013's winner(s) and announce it to the radio industry shortly thereafter. Past winners of the Rockwell include CBS Radio President Dan Mason, RAB President Erica Farber, and Consultant Fred Jacobs.

Eric Chase Joins Toledo's 'Kiss' as Program Director

Eric Chase joins CHR-Top40 "92.5 Kiss FM" WVKS-FM, Toledo, as Program Director and afternoon host, replacing Dave "Boomer" Mazur who moved to Rhythmic CHR "Jamz" WJQM-FM, Madison, as Music Director. Says Operations Manager Nathan Reed, "I've known Eric for many years. Finally, the planets have aligned for us to work together." Chase most recently was PD at Sports Talk "1130 The Fan" WDFN-AM, Detroit. He previously programmed CHR-Top40 "B104" WAEB-FM, Allentown, Pennsylvania. Chase tells us, "I've known OM Nathan Reed for over ten years and even when we competed against one another we maintained a good friendship with a positive and at times esoteric exchange of philosophies. It's exciting to be able to pair those philosophies with creative, inventive strategies as teammates now."

News Updates - Jan. 2, 2013

New York's WOR-AM Adds 'John and Ken' for Evenings
WOR-AM, New York, under Clear Channel, continues revamping its programming, and now adds "John and Ken" -- John Kobylt and Ken Chiampou, who are based at WOR-AM's new sister, KFI-AM, Los Angeles. The duo continues hosting 3-7pm PT in Los Angeles. Now they are also airing in evenings in New York, with an hour simulast with KFI-AM and an hour produced separately for WOR-AM. "John and Ken" are both natives of the New York area. They first became prominent at "NJ 101.5" WKXW-FM, Trenton, NJ, where they hosted a weekday afternoon talk show. They later moved to Los Angeles.

No More 'Real Talk 1160' in Cincinnati
“Real Talk 1160″ WQRT-AM, Cincinnati, fired its local staff January 2, announced plans to go silent next week, and said the station will return to the air February 1 with a new format. Cincinnati.com reports WQRT-AM fired the staff "after Dean Miuccio finished his 'Cincinnality' morning show. Also gone are newsman T.C. Summers, and afternoon sports hosts Dennis 'Wildman' Walker (3-5pm) and Jeff Piecoro (5-7pm). They will be replaced by syndicated shows through Monday." The station will go off the air after the Notre Dame football game Monday night." When WQRT-AM returns to the air, it will begin a new format that might be announced before the station goes silent. Jon Yinger, owner of the Michigan-based Christian Broadcast System, which owns and operates the station, tells Cincinnati.com's John Klesewetter in an email, "We’ve decided to change directions with WQRT. Clearly, this was not the success that we thought it would be. Having given it a really good run, we’ve decided to pull the plug. The live programs are gone as of today. We are fulfilling our obligations through 1/7/12 (Notre Dame). I’ll let you know as soon as we have everything lined up for the format change."

Sports Talk 'The Big 920' to Launch on Milwaukee's WOKY-AM
Clear Channel announces a new Sports Talk format to air on WOKY-AM, Milwaukee, as "The Big 920" -- replacing Classic Country "920 The Wolf" -- beginning January 7. The new Sports Talk station will feature local Wisconsin personalities along with national hosts from NBC Sports Radio and Fox Sports Radio. Wisconsin-based hosts will air in simulcasts with "The Big 1070" WTSO-AM, Madison, Wisconsin. "The Big 920" will also air NFL Monday, Sunday and Thursday Night Football along with the playoffs and the Super Bowl; the NCAA Basketball Tournament in March and NASCAR Racing through the Motor Racing Network and the Performance Radio Network. "We are bringing sports fans in the Milwaukee and Southeastern Region of the State the best local sports talk in Wisconsin," says Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Regional Market Manager Jeff Tyler. "We developed the most popular sports talk package for Madison a decade ago and now we are bringing the same outstanding line-up to Milwaukee. We know that the sports fans want to talk Packers, Badgers, Brewers and Bucks, and we have the expert team that will talk with them."

Is 'Power 96.9' REALLY the New Format at Boston's WTKK-FM (Or Just A Stunt)?
Some are questioning if "Power 96.9" is the real new format at Boston's WTKK-FM – or just a stunt. Northeast Radio Watch posts at Facebook, "Could this be day 1 of a series of stunts?" suggesting the wording of Greater Media's news release could mean there might still be other stunts to come before an actual new format debuts. And apparently a number of others believe that might be what's happening, citing a variety of possible reasons in their follow-ups. Rich Petschke posts, "Explains why they didn't do a 'montage' before the launch" - and Alex Thomas Jirgens writes, "What is also weird is no production piece to launch it. Just a cheap legal ID. Also, I haven't seen any Facebook or Twitter accounts." Bob Nelson posts, "CBS apparently got the twitter acct for Power969. They tell people 'don't recognize these songs? Neither do we. Tune to Amp Radio'. Nothing yet on facebook that I can see--but the News Talk 969 FB account is gone." For now we're accepting the official word that "Power" is the new format.(But if that turns out to be wrong, at least we won't have been caught without reporting that it might have been a stunt.)

Larry Mendte Is Out at Philadelphia's 'IQ 106.9'
Former TV anchor turned radio talk host Larry Mendte has exited Merlin Media's News Talk "IQ 106.9" WWIQ-FM, Philadelphia. Mendte originally co-hosted the main local morning show at "IQ 106.9" -- but later when a new co-host was named for that show, was given his own one hour gab fest at the latter end of an expanded morning block which precedes a fully syndicated lineup. Mendte writes on his Facebook page, "As most of you know, I have not been on the air for the past week. I have been told that many of you have called the station asking where I am and I thank you for that. The truth is I am no longer working at IQ 106.9. It was not my choice and since my show was by far the highest rated local show I am certain this will fuel the industry rumors that the station is being sold. I hope that is not true as the station fills an important void." He adds, "I love talk radio and hope to be back soon so we can continue our conversation. And so I am leaving this page up when I will soon amend it with a new place and time." Lionel (Michael William Lebron) and Al Gardner, who hosted the show before Mendte's solo program, are now airing 5-9am. Mendte originally co-hosted a morning show with Gardner.

Buzz Bissinger Exits Philadelphia's Talk WPHT-AM
Less than six months after author and journalist Buzz Bissinger began hosting an afternoon show on "Talk Radio 1210" WPHT-AM, Philadelphia, he suddenly has exited the CBS Radio station. Bissinger says, "While I enjoyed doing talk radio, I had increasingly come to the conclusion that it is fundamentally trivial." He adds, "I missed my writing career" claiming he couldn't devote himself to two careers. Although both sides claim the split was amicable, there are reports from Philly of frequent profanity-laced tirades by Bissinger, both on and off the air. Several sources also report that on at least one occasion Bissinger was charged with "creating a hostile work environment" at WPHT-AM. Bissinger has not been heard on the station since right before Christmas, but it had been assumed he was just on a break for the holidays and would return after the first of the year. There's no immediate announcement of a permanent replacement. For now, Steve Martorano and Rich Zeoli have been covering the afternoon drive slot on an interim basis.

Dave Ramsey Renews with NYC's WOR-AM
"The Dave Ramsey Show" is one program that will continue at New York's WOR-AM, now owned and operated by Clear Channel. While a number of shows have been ousted, Ramsey, we're told, will continue with a contract renewal. The syndicated show will remain in its current 2-4pm ET slot. Says Ramsey, "We're excited to continue being a part of the WOR team. We have a great relationship with WOR and their listeners." Last month we reported that Clear Channel had ousted local host and former New York State Governor David Patterson and Dr. Joy Browne, and dropped Cumulus-syndicated Mike Huckabee. There were also reports that off-air cutbacks, including those impacting the station's news department, had been made.

Veteran NYC Traffic Reporter Jeff McKay on Two Cumulus NYC Stations
Veteran New York traffic reporter and radio personality Jeff McKay is now providing traffic reports for Cumulus New York City stations Talk WABC-AM and Hot AC WPLJ-FM. McKay, though, is not working for Cumulus. He's joined Radiate Media to provide the two stations with his "McKay Way" traffic reports. Most recently heard on Merlin Media's ill-fate "FM News 101.9" WEMP-FM, New York, he's previously aired on a number of stations in the Big Apple including WINS-AM. McKay at one time also was a traffic reporter for "NJ 101.5" WKXW-FM, Trenton. His trademark "McKay Way" traffic reports are now heard on WABC-AM's "Imus in the Morning" and on WPLJ-FM's "Scott and Todd" morning show.

Ryan Fox Exits L.A.'s 'Go Country 105'
"Go Country 105" KKGO-FM, Los Angeles, midday host Ryan Fox exits. “I want to sincerely thank Mr. Saul Levine, the Levine family, Tonya Campos and all of the other very talented pros I got the chance to work alongside, and learn from, these last two years," says Fox in announcing his decision to leave KKGO-FM. "Together we achieved excellence as one of the most listened to Country stations in the nation, and it was a pure joy to play a major role in something so successful.” Fox tells us he's looking for his next opportunity, and while he's most associated with the Country format, he also has on air experience in Hot AC and Christian formats. He joined KKGO-FM just under two years ago, originally for morning show host, arriving from Country "99.5 The Wolf" KPLX-FM, Dallas.

FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn Gets Second Term
The U.S. Senate votes to approve the renomination of FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn. She's the first African American woman and first South Carolinian to hold the position of FCC Commissioner. Clyburn first took the oath of office August 3, 2009. In June 2012, President Obama nominated her for a seond term. This will be her first full term, retroactive to July 1, 2012, when her first term technically expired. She's now approved for a full five-year term, after serving out the term of Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein, who left the FCC to join the Department of Agriculture. Says FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, "I am so pleased that the Senate has approved Commissioner Clyburn's renomination to the FCC. Commissioner Clyburn is an excellent and dedicated public servant and has been a strong advocate in seeking to extend the benefits of broadband to all Americans. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Commissioner Clyburn and congratulate her on her new term." Before joining the FCC, Clyburn served on the South Carolina Public Service Commission, and had chaired the Washington Action Committee of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners. Previously, she published a weekly newspaper in Charleston, South Carolina.

St. Louis Radio Talk Host Dana Loesch Suing Breitbart.com
"FM NewsTalk 97.1" KFTK-FM, St. Louis, 12noon-3pm host Dana Loesch is suing Breitbart.com in federal court over a contract dispute. "The Dana Show" host, who is also a columnist, is seeking at least $75,000 in damages and a declaration that her contract had expired upon her attempted termination of the deal this past September. Loesch claims in her lawsuit that Breitbart.com created an "increasingly hostile" work environment, and extended her agreement when she tried to end it and is preventing her from working anywhere else. Loesch says her relationship with Breitbart went "tragically awry," reports the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Emmis' KFTK-FM is not involved in the dispute or the lawsuit which is not related to her radio job.

News Updates - Jan. 1, 2013

Dallas' 'Soul 730' KKDA-AM Says Goodbye
Urban Oldies "Soul 730" KKDA-AM, Dallas (licensed to Grand Prairie, Texas), is gone -- as new owners take over the station under an LMA, and launch Korean programming. Service Broadcasting has sold the station to SKR Partners for $1.9 million. The sale is currently before the FCC. The KKDA website now displays a splash screen with the "Soul 730" logo and the message: "Effective January 1, 2013 Soul 730 KKDA is no longer broadcasting on the radio. The frequency has been sold to another company. We thank you for listening and for all of your support." A final line to the message notes, "This sale is final, and cannot be changed, but if you would still like to leave a comment, you can do so" and provides a phone number to Service Broadcasting, which still operates Urban "K104" KKDA-FM and Urban AC "Smooth R&B 105.7" KRNB-FM. The new owner of 730 AM, SKR (Scott Kim and Kimberly Roberts) has no other broadcast properties. KKDA-AM had aired R&B for over 40 years.

'ESPN 730 Boise' Debuts
"ESPN 730 Boise" KINF-AM debuts, as the market's former ESPN affiliate drops that Sports Talk network to carry the new CBS Sports Radio network. Impact Radio Group’s KINF-AM previously simulcasted sister News Talk "Newsradio 99.1" KINF-FM. ESPN Radio lost its previous Boise affiliate as Cumulus Media's “The Ticket” KTIK-AM-FM announced plans to switch to the new CBS Sports Radio, which is being syndicated by Cumulus Media Networks. KINF-AM had already ended its News Talk simulcast and spent several days stunting prior to the January 1 launch of “ESPN 730 Boise.” Meanwhile, "Newsradio 99.1” (licensed to Mountain Home, Idaho) continues the News Talk format, which originally started on AM 730 with an FM simulcast added in August 2011.

'Hippie Radio' Launches on Two Stations
Three Eagles Communications debuts "Radio for Baby Boomers" Classic Hits "Hippie Radio" on two of its stations. We first heard that "Hippie Radio 104.3" launched on KKSD-FM, Watertown, South Dakota, which flipped from Classic Rock “The Fox.” Before we could finish preparing a report, Lance Venta was reporting that was only one of two Three Eagles stations that went to the "Hippie" brand. The other is the new "Hippie Radio 105.9" KTLB-FM, Fort Dodge, Iowa, which had aired Christmas music, and then since Christmas a long loop that included Iron Butterfly's "In A Gadda Da Vida and David Bowie's "Changes." KTLB-FM previously was Classic Hits "105.9 The Beach." The Hippie Radio format plays a wide variety of music from 1964-1973.

En Familia Closes on Purchase of Phoenix KIDR-AM
En Familia Inc.has closed on its acquistion of Spanish Religious KIDR-AM, Phoenix, for $1.85 million. En Familia purchased the 740 AM station from Force Broadcasting. KIDR-AM is licensed for 1,000 watts daytime and 292 watts at night. Jody McCoy of Media Services Group's Colorado Springs office served as the transaction broker for both seller and buyer. Force Broadcasting still owns KLHC-AM, Bakersfield, California, with a Spanish Religious format.

'Total Popular Music' Revising Charts Methodology for the New Year

MHBC's "Total Popular Music" announces a new methodology for airplay data on its exclusive TPMusic Charts -- the weekly Super Sixty and the Daily Dozen -- for the new year. Beginning Jan. 1, the Daily Dozen listing will be presented in two versions -- one using the previous formula, and a second with the new methodology. MHBC's Mark Harris explains, "Since we converted to airplay-based rankings in July 2009, I have been concerned that our CHR-Top40 component over-dominates our overall TotalPlaysMonitored, because of its much larger airplay totals compared to the Hot Adult format's stats. For example, the current number one song at Top 40 radio, based on a published panel's airplay totals, shows 15,500+ total plays, while the Hot Adult (Hot AC/Adult Top 40) component's number one song has 4550+ total plays, also based on a published panel. The new methodology will use an 'all-stations monitored' airplay total for the Hot Adult component. Currently that component format's total airplay for the highest ranked song is about 1,000 plays greater than the total for the published panel. The change we are making will both better reflect the Hot Adult format from a wider sampling of airplay, and give that component an increased influence for our overall total airplay data used to rank songs on our original and exclusive charts. The CHR-Top40 component will still, though, be the dominant influence even with this change." Harris notes that this will create "major changes" in the overall Total Popular Music TotalPlaysMonitored listed on TPM charts, which is why a brief transition period, for the first three days of 2013, is being offered with the dual daily Top 12 listings. Starting January 4 only the new version of the Daily Dozen will be published. "The next weekly Super Sixty Airplay chart, January 6, will include an explanatory notice, and will utilize the new methodology data with 'last week' stats from an unpublished December 30 listing," says Harris. "Obviously, this will create some confusion with the variation from one week to the next, but I'm hopeful the brief transition period with the daily listings will help our readers and followers to adjust to the change. The end result, I believe, will be a better reflection of the 'new mass appeal hit music radio format' that Total Popular Music was created to be." The utilized airplay data for CHR-Top40 will continue to be from the published panel data.

News Updates - Dec. 30-31, 2012

Tribune Company Exits Chapter 11 After Four Years
Tribune Company ends 2012 by officially emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy after more than four years. Tribune's reorganization plan becomes effective today (Dec. 31). The reorganized company, with a new board of directors and new ownership, says distributions to creditors have been initiated. Tribune also says it has closed on a new, $1.1 billion senior secured term loan and a $300 million revolving credit line. "Tribune emerges from the bankruptcy process as a multi-media company with a great mix of profitable assets, strong brands in major markets and a much-improved capital structure," says CEO Eddy Hartenstein. "The company's greatest asset, however, is its employees who, individually and collectively, have remained focused on serving our viewers, readers, advertisers and communities with a single-minded sense of purpose and dedication. I want to thank all our employees for their talent and effort throughout this four-year process." Hartenstein will remain in his role until the new board ratifies the company's executive officers. The company announced a seven-person board that includes Hartenstein, former Fox Entertainment chairman Peter Liguori, former Yahoo interim CEO Ross Levinsohn and Peter Murphy, Walt Disney's former top strategic planning executive. Liguori is expected to be named Tribune's new CEO. With the reorganization, Tribune has issued to former creditors a mix of about 100 million shares of new class A common stock and new class B common stock and new warrants to purchase shares of new class A or class B common stock. The new owners of Tribune are the company's largest creditors: Oaktree Capital Management, JPMorgan Chase, and Angelo, Gordon & Co. The company's reorganization plan was confirmed by the Delaware Bankruptcy Court in July. In November, Tribune received approval from the FCC to transfer its broadcast licenses to the owners who would take it over after emerging from bankruptcy. The broadcast properties include its one radio station, WGN-AM, Chicago, and 23 TV stations. Tribune owns eight major daily newspapers.

Expecting the Imminent Demise of Boston's 'News Talk 96.9', Howie Carr Says 'Talk Radio's Not Dead' (Just WTKK-FM)
Howie Carr, a journalist, author, and conservative radio talk show host based in Boston, is among those who believe Boston's "News Talk 96.9" WTKK-FM is about to flip to a new format, likely one that is music-based. Carr, who has hosted a weekday show on Boston's WRKO-AM since 1994, which is syndicated to stations throughout northern and central New England, says WTKK-FM wouldn't be about to abandon News Talk if he had been able to get free of his contract with Entercom, with whom he's had a well-publicized stormy relationship, and had become the saviour of Greater Media's WTKK-FM five years ago. From some of his comments, though, he's no fan of Greater Media either. But, regardless, he says FM is still the future of Talk programming, calling AM "Ancient Modulation." Carr writes in the Boston Herald, "WTKK wouldn't be turning off the lights next week if I could have just gotten over there back in 2007. No brag, just fact. And by the way, I'm still damn sorry I didn't make good my escape from the AM band." Carr adds, "Still, WTKK's failure is not the end of talk radio in Boston. Nature abhors a vacuum, and having no talk station on FM is a gaping hole. Less than 20 percent of the radio audience ever listens to AM radio -- and it’s a mighty old audience, too. They don’t call it 'Ancient Modulation' for nothing. Even without me, though, WTKK should have been able to survive, and thrive."

Sammy Suarez Is New Charleston SC 'Mix 95.9' PD
Sammy Suarez is named Program Director and afternoon host at Hot AC "Mix 95.9" WMXZ-FM, Charleston, South Carolina. Suarez most recently was PD at CHR-Top40 "107.1 A1A" WAOA-FM, Melbourne, Florida, and previously programmed CHR-Top40 "Channel 963" KZCH-FM, Wichita, Kansas. At WAOA-FM he also hosted afternoons as "Slammin'" Sammy Suarez. You might remember that we reported this past summer that Suarez resigned from WAOA-FM citing personal reasons. Prior to KZCH-FM, he was Music Director and night host at "Z106.7" KELZ-FM, San Antonio, before being named PD and afternoon host at CHR-Top "96.7 Kiss FM" KISN-FM, Bozeman, Montana. Suarez is now at his new Charleston station. He begins hosting afternoons on "Mix 95.9" Wednesday (Jan. 2).

Philly 'Wired' Morning Co-Host Shila Exits
Rhythmic CHR "Wired 96.5" WRDW-FM, Philadelphia, morning co-host Shila is out, following the recent exit of Chio. We reported on December 19 that Chio said he did not resign, as we were originally told by the station, but was fired. Now Shila tells listeners on Facebook that she's also out, although we were previously told that with Chio's exit, co-hosts Shila and and Tingle would continue. Shila says her "time at" WRDW-FM "has come to an end," adding, "I will not be a part of the station anymore." Chio had told us that the station said they "were going in a different direction," as he acknowledged that ratings on the "Chio, Shila and Tingle in the Morning Show" were not good, and he understood the station's decision. Shila now says, for her, it's "on to bigger and better things."

'The Dove' Makes A Soft Landing in Jacksonville
Cox Media Group launches Oldies-based Soft AC "106.1 The Dove" on FM translator W291CI in Jacksonville, Florida, duplicating the format and branding of Cox's "105.5 FM The Dove" WDUV-FM, Tampa. The Jacksonville version is fed to the 225-watt translator from the HD2 multicast channel of Cox Radio's Classic Hits "96.9 The Eagle" WJGL-FM, Jacksonville. It's not yet clear whether Jacksonville's "106.1 The Dove" will be programmed separately from the Tampa station or will simulcast its programming. "The Dove" format is described as a "super-soft" and "heavily oldies-based" Soft AC format, which on-air imaging calls "continuous lite favorites." W291CI, owned by Victor Vickers, was granted a license for a previous construction permit in September 2012, with announced plans to be utilized by Cox to rebroadcast an HD2 signal from WJGL-FM.

Classic Hits 'The Wolf' Debuts in Santa Rosa
Classic Hits "102.7 The Wolf" KWVF-FM debuts in California, as Redwood City Stereocasters signs-on its fourth signal in Santa Rosa, billed as "America’s Greatest Hits." KWVF-FM, licensed to Guerneville, began operating Friday (December 28), using the tower of sister "Country 106.3" KTRY-FM, licensed to Cazadero, California, and also serving the Santa Rosa area. "102.7 The Wolf" is online at KWVF.com with a splash screen displaying the new logo, a link to listen, and the notation that the website is under construction. Redwood City Stereocasters also owns and operates Sonoma County's "Smooth 93.7" KJZY-FM and AC KZST-FM (100.1). [This item was first tipped by Lance Venta at RadioInsight.com.]

'The Coyote' Replaces 'Sam' in Rochelle Illinois
"Today's Hit Country" as "102.3 The Coyote" replaces Adult Variety Hits "Sam FM" (using Dial Global's SAM, Simply About Music, format) at Rochelle Broadcasting's WRHL-FM, Rochelle, Illinois. Program Director Kris Wexell hosts "The Coyote Morning Show" 6-9am, with syndicated hosts, including "Tony and Kris" and Whitney Allen, airing in other dayparts. The station is also carrying "Country Countdown USA" and "American Country Countdown" along with "Country Gold" and "CMT Insider" among other syndicated offerings. The local morning show also features sister "Newstalk 1060" WRHL-AM News Director Jeff Leon with local and area news. Wexell, says the station, "comes from North West Illinois from the western part of the state in the Quad Cities. Kris brings listeners a refreshing approach to mornings with his upbeat sound. Kris has been in radio for over 20 years." The new "102.3 The Coyote" is online at www.1023TheCoyote.com. Rochelle Broadcasting also operates Rochelle's "Newstalk 1060" WRHL-AM.

Bangor's WZLO-FM Launches Triple-A 'The Loft'
The Zone Corporation, owned by Stephen and Tabitha King, has launched Triple-A "The Loft 103.1" on WZLO-FM, Bangor, Maine, billed as "Maine's Adult Alternative." We previously reported that WZLO-FM had split from its simulcast with Talk and Sports "The Pulse 620" WZON-AM, and changed its call letters from WZON-FM to WZLO-FM. Prior to launching "The Pulse" simulcast, 103.1 (as WDME-FM) was home to a Triple-A format. The simulcast ended in late November, when music began airing on the renamed WZLO -- Christmas music -- with promises of a new format after Christmas. "The Loft 103.1" is online at www.WZLOFM.com. A notation at the bottom of the website notes that the Kings' Zone Radio also operates Classic Rock WKIT-FM, in addition to WZLO-FM and WZON-AM.

News Updates - Dec. 28, 2012

Dallas' WBAP-AM-FM Email Erroneously Reports Death of President George H.W. Bush

News Talk WBAP-AM-FM, Dallas, has retracted and apologized for sending out a bulletin email reporting that former President George H.W. Bush, who has been hospitalized to treat complications from a serious case of bronchitis, had died. Bush, the country's 41st president, is still very much alive. In its retraction, WBAP said, "A message erroneously reporting the death of President George H.W. Bush was sent out moments ago by WBAP News. Mr. Bush has not passed away. We sincerely apologize for this error." WBAP-AM-FM News Director Rick Hadley explained in an interview, "As every news organization will do, we get our obituaries ready to go for people who aren't doing well. In this case, there were the reports that Bush had been transferred to the ICU, so the news team prepared an email blast to be ready for when Bush died. A bit macabre, perhaps, but standard practice." Hadley stressed that the bulletin never was aired on WBAP. He added, "We would never, obviously, do that on purpose. We were obviously mortified. It's one of those things you wish you could undo and go back in time take back."

Courtside President Bob Moore Exits
Courtside Entertainment President Bob Moore exits for a new position to be announced. A 40-year broadcast industry veteran, Moore's resume includes CBS Radio Los Angeles SVP/Market Manager, and President/General Manager at KLOS Los Angeles. Although he says he will "announce his future plans soon," sources say a "new position similiar to one of those he held before Courtside is likely, possibly in the Los Angeles market." Moore was named Courtside President in January 2012 by Courtside founder and Managing Partner Norm Pattiz. Moore and Pattiz had previously worked together at Westwood One, and Moore had overseen Pattiz's station group at Pirate Radio in Los Angeles and New York City prior to Westwood. But as Pattiz told us when he named Moore Courtside President almost a year ago, "I've known him since the '70s when he followed me as the sales manager of KCOP-TV in Los Angeles." An announcement of Moore's next position is likely to come in early January.

Clear Channel Bakersfield Market Manager Jim Bell Retiring
Clear Channel Bakersfield VP and Market Manager Jim Bell is retiring from radio after 35 years, December 31. Bell, 66, began his radio career in 1977 as an account executive in Los Angeles. His management stops have also included stations in Houston, Reno and Billings, Montana. He's spent the past ten years with Clear Channel Bakersfield. "I am retiring on the 31st," says Bell. "Clear Channel has known about this since last year sometime. The company has been good to me and I wanted this [transition] to happen properly." So far, no replacement has been named

It Gets 'Wild' in Wichita Falls
Following a stint with Christmas music, and then a day of other stunting, KXXN-FM, Iowa Park-Wichita Falls, Texas, Friday (Dec. 28) debuted its new format as CHR-Top40 "Wild 96.3" billed as "The Falls Party Station." After being silent for a period of time, KXXN-FM returned to the air October 23 as "Holiday 96.3" which continued past Christmas Day. KXXN-FM is currently owned by KIXC-FM LLC, which also owns and operates KWFB-FM, Holliday Texas, serving the Wichita Falls market, and added KXXN-FM this summer, obtaining it from Towers Investment Trust. After the new owner obtained KXXN-FM, they took it silent until a new tower facility was ready, since the purchase deal did not include the station's previous tower which the former owner says it uses for other stations.

Green Bay's 'KZ104.3' Debuts
We told you this one was coming, and now "KZ104.3" WKZG-FM debuts in Green Bay, Wisconsin, featuring 80s and 90s hits. The new "KZ104" replaces Adult Variety Hits "Chuck FM" WCHK-FM, Appleton-Green Bay, on 103.5 and its FM translator on 104.3. Actually, "Chuck" had already met its demise at the start of November, as the station(s) flipped to Christmas music. Two weeks later WCHK-FM became WKZG-FM, and the new identity of "KZ104.3" was announced. We were also subsequently told by owner Woodward Communications that the "Doug and Mary" morning show on sister CHR-Top40 "95.9 Kiss FM" WKSZ-FM would move to the new "KZ104" featuring Doug Erickson and Mary Love. The rest of the lineup will include Ty Collins in middays, Dayton Kane in afternoons, and Clear Channel’s syndicated Mario Lopez in nights.

Midland Texas Talk KWEL-AM Adds FM Translator Simulcast
News Talk KWEL-AM, Midland-Odessa, Texas, has added an FM simulcast on 107.1 via translator K296FG, Midland. The 250 watt translator previously aired Spanish-language programming. Local host and owner Craig Anderson contnues to air in mornings followed by syndicated shows from Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, Jason Moore, Jerry Doyle and Michael Savage. Nostalgia "The Music of Your Life" syndicated programming airs in overnights. KWEL-AM on 1070 is a daytime station limited to local sunrise to sunset. Says Anderson, "We decided the FM addition would give us a better presence and attract new listeners." He adds, "Listeners to FM also will hear a clearer signal" and allow the station to have "24-hour capability." Anderson also tells MyWestTexas.com that the addition of an FM signal and an expanded schedule will allow for the possibility of more local programming, including local high school sports.

Austin's 'The Zone' Adding 'Jay Mohr Sports'
Sports Talk "1300 The Zone" KVET-AM, Austin, is adding Jay Mohr's new Fox Sports Radio midday show, "Jay Mohr Sports," January 2 when it debuts nationwide. You might remember that on December 19, we reported that "Fox Sports Radio announced the addition of actor, comedian and radio personality Jay Mohr as its new midday host. Originating from Fox Sports Radio's Los Angeles studios, Jay Mohr Sports will debut on radio stations nationwide January 2, airing live weekdays from 12noon-3pm ET." Says KVET-AM Program Director Jon Madani, "We are excited about what Jay Mohr will bring to Austin every weekday afternoon. We're confident his unique mix of sports talk and humor will be a hit with our listeners." KVET-AM, in their news release, also cites content from the earlier report: "The show will feature Sports Talk and entertainment highlighted by Mohr's trademark comedic style and unique perspective as a multi-media star, in addition to conversations with top athletes and celebrities." Said Mohr, "After spending the last 15 years guest hosting, I couldn't be happier to get the opportunity to host my own show! I'm looking forward to talking sports, connecting with listeners, and interviewing amazing guests every day, while being a part of the Fox Sports Radio family. It was worth the wait."

WLS-FM's Dick Biondi to Host Another Chicago 'Elvis Fest'
Classic Hits WLS-FM, Chicago, late night host Dick Biondi will once again host the 13th annual "Elvis Fest" set for January 8, Elvis' birthday. Chicagoland Radio and Media writes that "the King of Chicago radio helps salute the King of Rock & Roll," at the annual event at the Original Mother's in Chicago. January 8 would have been Presley's 75th birthday. "The night will be filled with Elvis Presley tribute artists from the Elvis Entertainers Network live on stage. Attendees may also come dressed as Elvis and participate in the Elvis-look-alike contest -- the winner of which gets an exclusive 'Elvis 35' letterman/varsity jacket, autographed by radio legend Dick Biondi," writes CRM's Larz. "Additionally, attendees (dressed up or not) can participate in the Elvis karaoke contest for chances to win more prizes." We also are told that one new addition to this year's festivities is that "a lucky couple will be selected to be legally wed (or renew their vows) by an ordained minister dressed as Elvis, live on stage" at the celebration. "The couple will also win a honeymoon trip for two to (Viva) Las Vegas."

'Somebody That I Used to Know' Tops 'Total Popular Music' 2012

The Number One song of 2012 on the "Total Popular Music Super Sixty Top TPM Hits of 2012" is SOMEBODY THAT I USED TO KNOW from Gotye with Kimbra, based on total airplay at the components of the "new mass appeal hit music radio format." SOMEBODY finished the year in the fifth position at our CHR-Top40 component, and second at our Hot Adult (Hot AC/Adult Top 40) component. At Top 40 Radio, the top song was WE FOUND LOVE from Rihanna with Calvin Harris, our eighth overall most aired song. Hot Adult Radio's most played hit was Kelly Clarkson's STRONGER (What Doesn’t Kill You), our number two hit of the year. By contrast, WE FOUND LOVE was 20th for the year at Hot Adult, while STRONGER ranked ninth at CHR-Top40. Our third overall most popular song of the year, fun.'s WE ARE YOUNG finished seventh at Top 40, and sixth at Hot Adult. .

The full "Super Sixty Top TPM Hits of 2012" -- plus 2012 Top 20 charts for CHR-Top40 and Hot Adult -- are available at TotalPopularMusic.com and at TotalPopularMusic.Blogspot.com. The annual TPM end-of-year chart lists the sixty biggest "Total Popular Music" hits of 2012, ranked by TotalPlaysMonitored across the components of TotalPopularMusic -- From Mark Harris Broadcast Consulting.