Clear Channel Appoints Two New Market Presidents

Dennis Lamme for Washington DC/Baltimore, Richard Lewis for Philadelphia

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment has appointed new Market Presidents for its Washington DC/Baltimore and Philadelphia clusters. Dennis Lamme has been named Market President for DC/Baltimore, and Richard Lewis replaces Lamme in Philadelphia. Both will report to CCME President of Operations for Major Markets Tom Schurr. Lamme, who has been with Clear Channel for more than 15 years, joins his new market from CCME Philadelphia, where he's served as President/Market Manager since February 2012. He also previously held senior market leadership positions within Clear Channel in the Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Albany markets. As Market President, Lamme will be responsible for all aspects of the Washington DC/Baltimore market's operations "including all strategies, programming and sales initiatives," says Clear Channel's news release. "My goal is to grow the Clear Channel Washington, DC/Baltimore market including both our team's capabilities as well as revenue for the cluster," says Lamme. "As Clear Channel Media and Entertainment continues to grow and change, I'm excited to continue with the company." Says Schurr, "Dennis Lamme has been a great leader for both the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh markets which further proves he is the perfect person to take on this role. His success with Clear Channel Media and Entertainment has been recognized and we know he will bring his great management skills with him to lead the Washington DC/Baltimore market to continued success."

Lewis is promoted from within CCME Philadelphia, where he most recently served as VP of Sales as well as a Sales Category Captain for the Retail Category Division. He has 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. "I am thrilled to return to the role as Market President for Philadelphia. It's such an amazing opportunity to work with some of the most talented people within Clear Channel Media and Entertainment," says Lewis. "I look forward to continuing our winning streak through audience and revenue growth." Says Schurr, "Richard has a proven track record of successful revenue generation in Philadelphia. I am confident that Rich will lead the Philadelphia market to continued success in all aspects of our operations."

SiriusXM Names James Meyer Interim CEO

SiriusXM names President of Sales and Operations James Meyer as Interim CEO, effective immediately. Meyer, who will also join the SiriusXM Board of Directors, succeeds Mel Karmazin, who will not be renewing his current employment agreement. Last week (Dec. 12), we reported that Meyer had "emerged as a leading internal contender" to replace Karmazin as CEO of the satcaster. Now SiriusXM Board of Directors Chairman Eddy Hartenstein says Meyer is being named, at least temporarily, to take over from Karmazin. "We are fortunate to have a very strong executive team in place at SiriusXM and in Jim we have a highly qualified leader and operator. Jim has been an integral part of SiriusXM for eight years and his extensive knowledge of SiriusXM's business and significant industry experience are a great asset. Given Jim's current position, we expect this will be a seamless transition. Thanks to Mel Karmazin's leadership, strategic vision and operating focus, SiriusXM is poised for a continuation of the results and performance investors have come to expect," says Hartenstein. Upon Meyer's appointment, Karmazin officially relinquished his role as CEO and resigned as a member of the SiriusXM Board of Directors. "I'm honored to lead SiriusXM during this important time for our Company," said Meyer. "SiriusXM is a great business and I look forward to working with our talented management team to continue to deliver the best content and service to our subscribers, while enhancing value to our shareholders." The SiriusXM Board has formed a search committee, chaired by Liberty Media's Greg Maffei and including James Mooney and Eddy Hartenstein, to consider both internal and external candidates, including Meyer, for its next permanent CEO.

News Briefs - Dec. 19, 2012 [Updated]

Family Radio Set to Begin Programming Philadelphia's 950 AM Friday.

Harold Camping’s Family Radio is set to begin airing its programming on Philadelphia's 950 AM, Friday (Dec. 21), as the WKDN call letters return, and WPEN-AM becomes a part of Philly radio history. Greater Media is urging listeners to Sports Talk WPEN-AM-FM to immediately begin listening only to "97.5 The Fanatic" WPEN-FM for its Sports Talk programming. Some see the Dec. 21 date for Camping's Family Stations to begin airing their programming on 950 AM as a deliberate reference to predictions (based on the Mayan calendar) that the world will end that date. Of course, it was Camping's prior multiple predictions of the end of the world (that obviously proved false) that began Family Radio's problems. In the face of decreased financial support, Family Stations began selling major market FMs, and seeking lower-priced AMs to air their programming. In Philly, Family sold its 106.9 (then WKDN-FM) to Merlin Media which launched Conservative Talk "IQ 106.9" WWIQ-FM.

26th Annual Crystal Radio Awards Call for Entries.

The NAB will accept entries for the 2013 NAB Crystal Radio Awards beginning January 1. Established in 1987, the Crystal Radio Awards honor outstanding community service, and recognize radio stations for their year-round commitment to service to their communities. To enter, a station must submit their online entry describing their community service efforts for the 2012 calendar year. Fifty Crystal Radio Awards finalists and ten winners will be chosen by judges with broadcast and community service backgrounds. "NAB is pleased to honor Radio's support of local communities and encourages stations to enter for a Crystal Radio Award," says NAB EVP of Radio John David. Entry information is available on the NAB website. Submissions must be received by January 31. The Crystal Radio Awards finalists will be announced February 25. Winners will be announced and the finalists will be honored at the NAB Radio Luncheon during the 2013 NAB Show in Las Vegas.

Entravision Unveils New Brand Identity Logo.

Entravision Communications has a new brand identity logo, reflecting what the company calls the "continued growth of Entravision's digital, mobile and marketing services, which complement the company's core television and radio assets." The new Entravision logo is a synthesis of three elements: the World, a symbol of the global reach; the Eye, a symbol of the organization's vision; and the Ribbon, or Serpentina, which is a festive reflection of the company's Latino roots. "In addition to operating an established portfolio of leading television and radio stations in the nation's fastest-growing Latino markets, we have also made significant progress in building our interactive assets, which are demonstrating consistent growth," says Chairman and CEO Walter Ulloa. "Our new logo and marketing initiatives, which follow the recent strategic reorganization of our management structure, aim to support our goal of further strengthening our unique connection with our audiences and the advertisers who seek to reach them." Entravision says its new logo and its colors also represent the company's commitment to embracing it Latino audiences, as well as the company's focus on pursuing new opportunities to provide integrated marketing solutions to marketers and advertisers.

TRN to Launch 'Andrea Tantaros Show'.

Talk Radio Network Entertainment will launch "The Andrea Tantaros Show" for 9am-12noon ET, starting January 2. "The show promises to engage listeners who want to be informed and entertained with smart, edgy, and funny but responsible commentary on politics, pop culture Wall Street and entertainment," says the TRN announcement. "Tantaros is a nationally recognized political commentator and syndicated columnist best known for her role as a co-host of Fox News Channel's 'The Five' who delivers unfiltered and unconventional analysis, offering audiences candid and often humorous insight into politics, policy, current events and our country's most contentious culture wars." Says TRN CEO Mark Masters, "In a post 2008–2009 economy, we have been seeking shows that are highly entertaining, yet responsible and profitable for our station affiliates and advertisers. Andrea has the ability to do both. She's a fresh voice who will inject new energy to the airwaves." Tantaros, who will fill the time-slot recently vacated by Laura Ingraham, will be joined by Jason Mattera, an author, and the host of "The Jason Mattera Show" weekends at WABC-AM, New York.

Jay Mohr Joins Fox Sports Radio for Middays.

Fox Sports Radio announces 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. The show, we're told, 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." Says 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." Mohr's new show will replace Jim Rome's show, with Rome moving to the new CBS Sports Radio network.

Geoff Pinkus Moving from Chicago's WIND-AM to WCKG AM. Geoff Pinkus is moving from Chicago's WIND-AM to crosstown WCKG AM, where he begins airing January 7. Pinkus will host middays on WCKG-AM "as its new live and local midday host," reports Chicagoland Radio and Media. "Pinkus comes to WCKG after years of being a weekend and overnight host at WIND-AM." The new "Geoff Pinkus Show" is set for 11am-1pm. CRM's Larz writes that Pinkus "has two weeks left on his contract with WIND-AM." He's been there since the Spring of 2008. "Pinkus is known for his unique style, not found elsewhere on the Chicago radio dial. In a single show (and sometimes even in a single segment), he can be hilarious, confrontational, and generous. His no-nonsense, straight-forward attitude sometimes pushes boundaries, but always entertains," writes Larz.

Clear Channel Names Three Orlando GSMs. Clear Channel names three new GSMs at its eight-station Orlando cluster -- Dave Donahue for CHR-Top40 "XL106.7" WXXL-FM and AC "Magic 107.7" WMGF-FM, Hector Marcano for Tropical "Rumba 100.3" WRUM-FM, and Mark Kanak for "Real Radio 104.1" WTKS-FM. All three General Sales Managers report to cluster Director of Sales Barbara Latham.

Chio Says He Didn't Quit Philadelphia's 'Wired 96.5'. We recently reported that Beasley Rhythmic CHR "Wired 96.5" WRDW-FM, Philadelphia, morning host Chio.announces his resignation. Chio has been part of the "Chio, Shila and Tingle in the Morning Show." Now, Chio tell us, "I did not resign, I got fired." He says his contract did not end until June, but the station told him that they "were going in a different direction." Chio admits ratings on his morning show were not good, and he understood the station’s decision. "Wired 96.5" will pay him through the expiration of his current contract. Chio has been in Philadelphia radio since 1995, originally at CHR-Top40 "Q102" WIOQ-FM. Before he was teamed with Shila and Tingle, who remain in mornings at WRDW-FM, he became "a name" in Philadelphia radio with "Chio in the Morning."

OMVC to Integrate Functions within NAB

The Open Mobile Video Coalition (OMVC), which has served as the principal proponent for Mobile Television since 2007, announces it will integrate functions with the NAB. Effective January 1, key functions currently coordinated by the OMVC executive director, including OMVC's technical groups, advocacy efforts and marketing activities, will be integrated into the NAB. "The purpose of the OMVC was to help develop a Mobile TV standard, create an ecosystem for broadcasters, manufacturers and other interested parties and to encourage device development," says Anne Schelle, who has served as OMVC's Executive Director since shortly after it began. "We've done that, and with the recent launch of Dyle mobile TV, operated by a consortium of broadcasters known as the Mobile Content Venture, and similar activities by the Mobile500 Alliance, Mobile TV is available in more than 35 U.S. markets covering some 55 percent of the population," adds Schelle. "Integration with the NAB is the logical next step as the commercialization of Mobile TV enters its next exciting phase."

NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith applauded the OMVC’s work and pledged the association’s full support for building further momentum for Mobile TV. "The NAB is honored to assume the duties carried out so successfully by the OMVC. Through the joint efforts of the OMVC, ATSC and innumerable technical groups, the groundwork has been laid for an exciting new TV experience delivered to mobile devices. The NAB, as the voice of the broadcast industry, is the perfect home for this activity as it blossoms into the next great U.S. technology story.” Building on her OMVC leadership and accomplishments, Schelle will continue her Mobile TV evangelism as a senior policy consultant to the NAB to help assure a smooth transition. “Mobile TV is a key part of broadcasters’ future, and the power of the NAB will enable the industry to speak with one voice, to continue our advocacy efforts before the FCC and Congress and to significantly expand the reach of Mobile TV services for American TV viewers. I look forward to working hard to keep the momentum going, while collaborating with the talented NAB staff, Television Board and broad membership on the transition,” says Schelle

NBC Sports Radio Unveils Weekend Lineup

Dial Global and the NBC Sports Group will launch a live debut of "NBC Sports Radio Weekends," a 48-hour weekend programming block, starting Saturday, January 5. In addition to the already launched "Safety Blitz with Rodney Harrison," the new sports network adds "a full weekend lineup of veteran personalities," including Brian Webber of NFL Network's "NFL AM" morning show, Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated and NBC Sports, and NBC Sports contributor Clay Travis. Also joining the weekend team are Newy Scruggs, Sports Director and on-air personality at NBC-5 Dallas and Jason Page formerly of "105.3 The Fan" in Dallas, and most recently with ESPN Radio New York; Anita Marks, who is part of the New York Giants TV and Radio broadcast team and formerly of "SportsRadio 105.7 The Fan" in Baltimore; NBC Sports Radio update anchor Jon Stashower, formerly of ESPN Radio, who adds a Sunday morning show; and, NBC Sports' Rob Simmelkjaer who will also host a weekend show. NBC Sports Radio weekend programming will also include contributions from NBC Sports television commentators Hines Ward, Stan Van Gundy, Rodney Harrison, Michelle Beadle, Amani Toomer, Doug Flutie and other marquee personalities. The new NBC Sports Radio network will launch the rest of its weekday 6am-7pm lineup, April 1, 2013, to tie in with the Dial Global Sports' exclusive NCAA Tournament coverage and preparation for The Final Four. The network's.EVP and General Manager Chris Corcoran tells us, "We're excited to deliver great weekend hosts as well as contributions from some of the top names in sports to our affiliates and advertisers. Our weekend lineup offers excellent talent and content that will deliver a fresh and engaging sound." NBC Sports and Olympics SVP of News and Talent Princell Hair adds, "As NBC Sports Radio continues to grow its programming, which now includes 24-7 weekend coverage, we are pleased to offer listeners a diverse portfolio of compelling radio voices, with expertise ranging from the NFL to general news to sports business."

GfK: Social Media Dominates Smartphone Internet Time, Accounting for Almost One-Third of Minutes

As consumers increasingly rely on smartphones as a major source of Internet access, a new GfK analysis shows that social media represents by far the largest share of online time via these devices. Social sites and activities account for almost one-third (31%) of smartphone online minutes -- double the proportion for email, which ranks second at 16%. The analysis also shows differences in online activities when using PCs (laptops and desktop computers) versus smartphones. Social media represents only 18% of time spent on the Internet via PCs -- the same percentage as email, and only slightly higher than online video (13%) and search (11%). Phones now account for 17% of total time spent with the Internet across all devices, compared to 12% in 2011, according to research from GfK's MultiMedia Mentor. Desktop and laptop computers, by contrast, have dropped off considerably, representing 73% of Internet time, compared to 83% a year ago. Tablets account for 6% of online time -- double the 2011 figure of 3%; and Internet TVs also doubled, from 2% of online time in 2011 to 4% this year. Trend data show that the purposeful Internet use encouraged by smartphone apps -- checking social sites and email -- may be affecting how consumers approach online time via PCs, as well. The percent of time devoted to uncategorized 'Other' Internet activities on PCs has dropped by almost half in just a year, from 37% in 2011 to 20% in 2012. Meanwhile, time spent accessing online video via PCs has essentially doubled, from a 7% share to 13%, and time with social media and email also grew. Says GfK VP of Media Robert DeFelice, "Reading in-the-moment status updates and posting short comments, replies and likes are activities tailor-made for smartphones. Apps encourage a targeted, deliberate approach to online time that consumers may not even clearly associate with the Internet. On a PC, by contrast, people open browsers to access social media, email, and a variety of other sites; but their interest in going beyond a familiar repertoire of activities, even on the PC, seems to be dwindling."

News Briefs - Dec. 18, 2012 [Updated]

KKLA-FM Los Angeles Host Frank Pastore Dies at 55. Christian Talk "The Spirit of Los Angeles" KKLA-FM afternoon host Frank Pastore has died from injuries suffered November 19 in a motorcycle accident. The station announced Pastore's passing on their www.KKLA.com website, "Dear Listeners: As many of you are aware, Frank Pastore was in a motorcycle accident Monday night, 11/19. Gina Pastore informed us that in the early afternoon of Monday, December 17, Frank passed away. We will update you with any additional information as soon as it is available. Please continue to pray for Gina and the family. Blessings to you, KKLA Management". Pastore, as we previously reported, sustained severe head trauma when he was thrown from his motorcycle in an accident on the eastbound freeway near Buena Vista Street. He was flown by helicopter to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center, where he remained in a coma and was listed in critical condition. He was later transferred to a hospital in Upland for continued treatment. During Pastore's 4-7pm show Monday, guest host Kevin McCullough announced Pastore's passing. "He went home today." The rest of the show featured callers sharing memories of Pastore, who had hosted the afternoon show on KKLA-FM since 2004. He had been with the station since ending a professional baseball career in 1994.

Green Bay's 'Chuck' Is Gone, 'KZ104.3' Is Coming. Woodward Communications Adult Variety Hits "104.3 Chuck-FM” WCHK-FM, Appleton, simulcast on FM translator W278AU, Green Bay, at 103.5 FM, is gone. "KZ104.3" WKZG-FM, featuring 80s and 90s hits, will debut December 26. For now the former "Chuck" is airing All Christmas music. Mornings on "KZ104.3" will be hosted by Doug Erickson and Mary Love, who will segue from sister CHR-Top40 "Kiss 95.9 ” WKSZ-FM. The new morning show, says the station, will start January 2. A new website is already in place at KZ1043.com, which currently redirects to the "KZ104.3" Facebook page, which introduces the new station, displays the new logo, and tells visitors, "80's and 90's music starting Dec 26th! All your favorites! Tons of energy and Doug and Mary starting Jan 2nd."

Courtside Entertainment Names Dan Yukelson EVP/CFO. Dan Yukelson is appointed EVP and Chief Financial Officer of Courtside Entertainment Group, according to an announcement by Courtside Chairman Norman Pattiz. Yukelson, who most recently held the same position at Premiere Networks, will be responsible for all Courtside Entertainment Group and Launchpad Digital Media financial operations, as well as overall company management. "Dan is a pro. His experience streamlining financial operations and proven revenue generation knowhow are a perfect fit for Courtside as we continue to rapidly expand our offerings in radio and aggressively enter the digital space," says Pattiz. Yukelson tells us, "I am looking forward to joining Norm Pattiz and his team of creative professionals." He adds that he looks forward to "contributing to the success of this cutting-edge, multi-platform media rocket ship. This is a tremendous opportunity to join a company that is breaking new ground with a focused strategy emphasizing on-demand media and digital content, in addition to its long tradition of quality radio programming."

Matt Freeman Joins Clear Channel Communications Board of Directors. The Clear Channel Communications Board of Directors has appointed Bain Capital Operating Partner Matt Freeman as a CCU board member to fill the vacancy created by the December 13 resignation of Steven Barnes, according to an SEC filing. The Form 8-K says that Freeman joined Bain in 2012, before which for two years he "served in multiple capacities for The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (a global advertising and marketing services company), including as CEO of its Mediabrands Ventures unit and as Vice Chairman and Global Chief Innovation Officer of its McCann Erickson unit." Prior to that "Freeman was the CEO of an online media company, Betawave, from 2009 to 2010 and served as CEO of the Tribal DDB Worldwide unit of Omnicom Group Inc. (a global advertising, marketing and corporate communications company) from 1998 to 2009." Freeman, we're told, "will not receive any compensation for his service on the Company's Board of Directors. He will receive the same form of Indemnification Agreement as all other members of the Company's Board of Directors."

The Ins and Outs of Radio
Cumulus Providence Operations Manager Tony Bristol exits suddenly. He says, "It's been a great ride for 30 years being associated with brands like 92 PRO-FM and Lite Rock 105." Bristol tells us his long tenure at the Providence stations "has been a humbling, exhilarating and rewarding experience," but it's now time "to recharge, reinvent and challenge myself" ... CHR-Top40 "Hot 101.5" WPOI-FM, Tampa, morning host Special Ed is out, and seeking his next opportunity ... Townsquare Media "98 Country" WWJO-FM, St. Cloud, Minnesota, tells us that Matt Fallon will join their weekday lineup, taking over afternoons starting January 3. Current afternoon host Dave McCord will continue with the cluster in a part time capacity as he explores interests outside of radio. Fallon's previous stops include Three Eagles Communications in Luverne, Minnesota, and Community First Broadcasting in Northwest Iowa ... "Newstalk 96.9" WTKK-FM, Boston, midday host Doug Meehan is leaving to pursue a major market television opportunity that he will announce in the near future ... "Pure Country" KRJC-FM, Elko, Nevada, midday host Steve Herrera exits after a year at the station ... "Sports Radio 560" WQAM-AM, Miami, morning host Joe Rose, a former Miami Dolphins tight end, signs a three-year contract extension to continue airing weekdays 6-10am.