Thursday's Radio & Media News - July 11, 2013

If 'Video Killed the Radio Star' Will Apple's iTunes Radio Kill Pandora? Will Apple's iTunes Radio kill Pandora? So far, Pandora says it's not worried about the forthcoming Apple streaming music service. But we remember when MySpace was on top of social networking and said it wasn't worried about Facebook. (And many other similar examples in various forms of mass media over the years.) This week's news about Apple's vision for control of the "connected car" has to be bad news for Pandora. If Apple's new patent for "a dashboard touch screen panel that would allow users to mange their car's temperature, wipers, and other functions" doesn't have Pandora worried, maybe it should? If Apple invades the auto dashboard in that manner, will it offer Pandora or Apple's iTunes Radio? (That's a rhetorical question.) Yes, Pandora can compete with iTunes Radio. But Pandora Media isn't big enough (or rich enough) to compete with Apple for the control of the "connected car" that Apple envisions. Already (on Wall Street) Pandora has taken a punch from Apple -- even before iTunes Radio is officially launched. Pandora's stock price dropped 8.5 percent Wednesday after an analyst who is beta testing the iTunes Radio service released a report praising it -- and advising investors to sell their Pandora shares. That's BTIG analyst Richard Greenfield, who said that Apple is making an "increasingly aggressive push" into the in-vehicle market, with iTunes Radio and the growth of its Siri voice control software. "Apple is leveraging its expertise in marrying hardware and software design to strengthen their ecosystem as they try to take a more active role in the ‘connected car,’" Greenfield wrote. The Los Angeles Times was publicizing that report -- even as CNet was being quoted everywhere (including here) for "Apple Envisions Touch Screen to Control Key Car Features." Greenfield has been testing a developer version of iTunes Radio. He's even posted a video of the iOS7 Beta 3 demo on YouTube -- which is being embedded on many other sites (including here, below). Greenfield has praise for the interconnectivity of the iTunes Radio and iTunes Store features. "This is what the labels really like, that they've made it really easy to buy the music -- one click to buy." Greenfield also praises Siri's abilities to control iTunes Radio via the user's voice commands. "Imagine if you were driving, just how easy this would be. Siri's really come a long way," says Greenfield. And that's bad news for Pandora. The analyst notes that it can be used to control Pandora -- BUT... "If you were in Pandora and used Siri with the command ‘play Jazz Radio’ it would literally stop Pandora, open up iTunes Radio and start playing the iTunes Radio Jazz station." Official: Blair Garner Leaving 'After MidNite' Just about everyone has been expecting this announcement; we just didn't know when it would come. It's here. Blair Garner will leave Premiere-syndicated "After MidNite" at the end of this month. Of course, Garner has joined Cumulus Media as the morning host at "94.7 Nash FM" WNSH-FM, New York, and "America's Morning Show" is expected to eventually be syndicated by Cumulus Media Networks. Garner leaves "After MidNite" July 31, after 20 years with the show. Premiere Networks says, "After MidNite will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the highly-acclaimed Country music program with a star-studded takeover. As the show’s creator and long-time host Blair Garner steps down from his post on July 31, twenty of Country music’s biggest stars will sit behind the mic and give fans their unique, week-long take as host of the program. The takeover, which runs from August 1 through the end of 2013, will also feature special performances, interviews and much more." The array of celebrity guest hosts will kick off with Carrie Underwood, August 1 and 2, followed by a full week with Jason Aldean, starting August 5. "Premiere Networks has had a successful relationship with Blair Garner for many years and we wish him all the best with his new program," says Premiere Networks EVP of Music Programming Jennifer Leimgruber. "We look forward to announcing a new host for After MidNite in the near future. In the meantime, we're excited to welcome the biggest stars in Country music as they put their stamp on After MidNite and help us celebrate this special milestone." House Subcommittee Holds Hearing on FCC Reform Bills The House Communications Subcommittee held a Thursday hearing on FCC reforms -- "Improving FCC Process." Subcommittee Chairman Greg Walden (D-OR)[pictured] and Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) are reintroducing two bills: H.R. 3309 (the Federal Communications Commission Process Reform Act) and H.R. 3310 (the Federal Communications Commission Consolidater Reporting Act). Essentially identical versions of both bills failed to pass the House last year. "These bills aim to minimize the potential for procedural failings and abuse, and to improve agency transparency, efficiency, and accountability. The hearing will focus on discussion drafts of the two bills in anticipation of reintroduction," the committee majority wrote in a memo. Former FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell was scheduled to be among those testifying at the hearing. The bills include provisions requiring the Commission to adhere to "shot clock" deadlines for action and support all actions with notices of proposed rulemaking and comment periods or provide a reason why not. The bill would also put agenda-setting in the hands of a bipartisan Commission majority rather than in the Chairman's sole discretion, and would allow more than two commissioners to meet in private without violating sunshine laws. NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith, in a statement on the hearing, says, "NAB continues to support efforts by Chairmen Upton and Walden to take a fresh look at FCC processes to ensure that Commission procedures don't impede the ability to serve the public interest. The agency has a critically important mission, and it is imperative that it execute that mission expeditiously, fairly and in a data-driven manner. We look forward to working with the Committee and the Commission to ensure that the FCC functions at the highest level for the American people." UPDATE: Republicans on the panel cited scandals at the IRS, NSA, and other agencies as reasons to make the FCC more transparent, while Democrats dismissed the FCC reform bills as undermining the Commission's ability to regulate mergers and public interest issues. Only two Democrats were at the hearing. One of those was ranking member Anna Eshoo (D-CA), who called the bills a "backdoor way of gutting the FCC's authority." The measures are expected to pass the Republican-controlled House, but are unlikely to clear the Democrat-controlled Senate, the same fate of previous FCC reform bill efforts. Tyler Media Oklahoma City to Launch New Sports Talker Tyler Media Oklahoma City says it will launch the market's sixth Sports Talk station next month. The new station will replace Classic Rock KRXO-FM on 107.7 FM, a 100,000 watt full market signal, with the Classic Rock format moving to a new 250 watt FM translator (K283BW) on 104.5 FM. KRXO's lineup, including syndicated Bob and Tom in mornings along with Cara Rice, Buddy Wiley, Kelso, Unkle Dave and Rick Caldwell, are expected to make the move to 104.5 FM. The new Sports Talk station will air local talent for 15 hours a day, from 6am-9pm. The station will air the NBC Sports Radio network and play-by-play of Oklahoma University sports the rest of the time. Plans also call for the airing of NFL broadcasts on Sunday, Monday and Thursday nights. Although not officially announced, reports from the market say crosstown "Sports Animal" WWLS-FM morning co-host Mike Steely will join the new Tyler Media Sports Talk station. There are also reports that other "Sports Animal" personalities may join Tyler Media's new station. Names being mentioned include midday host Mark Rodgers and afternoon host Jim Traber. KRXO-FM is already a co-flagship of Oklahoma University sports along with sister News Talk KOKC-AM. Who Wants the Yankees? Clear Channel's New York WOR-AM? Maybe the question should be, "How much are the New York Yankees worth -- to radio?" Clear Channel is reportedly offering big bucks to obtain the rights to the Yankees -- more than is currently being paid by CBS Radio. The New York Post's Phil Mushnick says his sources tell him that Clear Channel has made a bid "in excess of the $14 million currently paid by CBS" for the rights to the Yankees. The popular theory is the radio broadcasts would go on Clear Channel's WOR-AM. "With Yankees and Mets radio rights set to expire in October, the smart money had long been on the market’s two sports stations -- WFAN and ESPN [WEPN-FM] -- to land one or the other of the highly coveted properties. But a new player has emerged, and it looks as if it's playing for keeps," writes Mushnick. "Clear Channel Media and Entertainment, which owns WOR Radio, has made a recent bid in excess of the $14 million currently paid by CBS for the rights to the Yankees’ broadcasts, sources told The Post." CBS Radio, which owns WFAN-AM-FM, as well as WCBS-AM, has owned the Yankees rights since 2002. "Now, with two spots on the radio dial that are dedicated to its sports station ... it seems unlikely CBS will let the rights go without a fight." Mushnick adds that if Clear Channel gets the Yankees, it would mean the Mets are alive with both WFAN, the franchise’s radio home since the station went on the air in 1987, and ESPN Radio's WEPN-FM . "The team, which receives between $6 million and $7 million a year under its current deal, could even find itself the object of a bidding war." Clear Channel declined to comment says Mushnick. Philly Sports Talker Darren Daulton Diagnosed with Brain Cancer "97.5 The Fanatic" WPEN-FM, Philadelphia, baseball talk host Darren Daulton has been diagnosed with brain cancer. The former Phillies catcher has been on hiatus from his nightly "Talking Baseball with Dutch" show on Greater Media's WPEN-FM for surgery to remove two brain tumors. Now, the bad news has come that "Dutch" has been diagnosed with a Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He has returned to his Clearwater Florida area home to continue recuperating with immediate family and friends, and to receive further treatment, although, sadly, the prognosis is not good. In an online post, Darren Daulton Foundation President Tony Perri says, "Darren and his family wish to thank everyone for their loving support throughout this difficult time. He is deeply touched. In typical fashion, he again said, ‘Right on; Fight on.’ Darren and his family request that everyone respect his privacy and that of his family during this period of time. At his urging, I can report that the September 9, 2013 golf tournament that benefits the Foundation will continue as planned. More details are forthcoming as Darren has requested that we keep his friends and fans periodically updated." Central New Jersey Radio's Jack Ellery Retires After 50 Years Greater Media tells us that legendary morning personality Jack Ellery has retired from "Talk Radio 1450" WCTC-AM, New Brunswick, New Jersey. Ellery has been with the station for most of the past 50 years, starting in 1963 as a disc jockey. He soon turned his daily morning show into a forum for discussion on the latest news in Central New Jersey and the Garden State, "providing insight, wit and humor, as one of the true pioneers of local talk radio." Ellery was also instrumental in helping WCTC-AM raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for Central Jersey charitable organizations through on-air radiothons and various drives for local residents in dire need. Ellery capped off his career as one of Central New Jersey's iconic radio personalities with his inclusion in the New Jersey Broadcasters Association's inaugural class of Hall of Fame inductees last year. He also received the NJBA's Lifetime Achievement award at the same time. "Jack has served our community, our advertisers and our audience for multiple decades," says Station Manager Dan Henrickson. "We wish him all the best in the 'gone fishing' portion of his life." Ellery hosted his final WCTC-AM morning show this week. KOIT-FM/San Francisco Program Director Andy Holt Exiting As we reported first (in our "Behind the Microphone" section), Entercom AC 'Lite Rock' KOIT-FM, San Francisco, Program Director Andy Holt says he will be resigning in the upcoming weeks for personal reasons. Holt says he will be seeking a new opportunity closer to family. Although only at KOIT-FM for the past year and a half, Holt has been with Entercom for 13 years. We now have more from both Andy and the station. Holt tells us, "I'm so proud to have been a part of this team and one of America’s most legendary stations. KOIT is back where it belongs – #1 Adults 25-54 in the Bay Area. All of the elements are in place for continued success. My thanks to everyone at Entercom for 13 terrific years in San Francisco and New Orleans." Says Entercom San Francisco VP and Market Manager Dwight Walker, "We thank Andy for his outstanding work and wish him only the best as he moves on to what is assuredly more success in his career." Walker also tells us that KOIT-FM has launched an immediate search for a new PD, saying candidates should apply online at www.entercom.com, clicking on "Careers" in the top-of-page menu. 2013 RAIN Internet Radio Awards Submissions Being Accepted The 2013 RAIN Internet Radio Awards are open for submissions. The deadline is July 31. The awards recognize excellence in five categories -- best overall online radio service, best streaming broadcast station, best overall digital strategy, best single-stream webcaster, and international excellence in online audio. The 2013 RAIN Internet Radio Awards will be presented at this year's RAIN Summit Orlando, September 17 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort -- an Official Partner Event to The Radio Show produced by the NAB and RAB. RAIN Publisher Kurt Hanson tells us RAIN Summit Orlando will feature a keynote presentation from David Field, President and CEO of Entercom Communications. For more information on the 2013 RAIN Internet Radio Awards, click here. Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Tribune Talk WGN-AM, Chicago, makes it official -- that veteran Chicago broadcaster and "Fox 32" TV news anchor Bob Sirott is joining Tribune's WGN-AM for a weekday show with his wife, Marianne Murciano. The husband-wife duo currently host the "Sunday Night Radio Special with Bob and Marianne" from 9-10pm. Sirott hosted "The Noon Show" on WGN-AM from 2007-10 and currently co-anchors the Fox Chicago News at 9pm weeknights with Robin Robinson. The new daily radio show's airing time will be announced soon, with the show starting in the next few weeks ... Journal Broadcast Group appoints Ron Harris as Operations Manager of its Boise Idaho cluster, starting July 22. Harris will oversee Classic Hits "K-Hits" KTHI-FM, Classic Rock KJOT-FM, Triple-A "The River" KRVB-FM and Active Rock "The X" KQXR-FM ... CHR-Top40 "98.7 Amp Radio" WDZH-FM, Detroit, names Dustin "HaZe" Monroe to host 7pm-12midnight, succeeding Mikey V who is named the station's fulltime Imaging Director. HaZe, from Wichita Kansas, has worked for stations in Wichita, Milwaukee and St. Louis ... JVC Media hires Murph Dawg to join EDM "Party 105" WPTY-FM, Long Island, as Assistant PD/Music Director and night host ... The syndicated "Free Beer and Hot Wings" morning show has extended with their flagship station, Rock WGRD-FM, Grand Rapids, through 2018.

Wednesday's Radio & Media News - July 10, 2013

Tribune Company to Split Broadcasting and Publishing, Two Divisions Will Become Distinct Separate Companies Tribune Company will split its broadcasting and publishing businesses into two distinct separate companies. The two companies that would exist following the separation would be Tribune Publishing Company and Tribune Company. Tribune says each will have "greater financial and operational focus, the ability to tailor its capital structure to its specific business needs, and a management team dedicated to seizing strategic growth opportunities with maximum flexibility." Last week, Tribune announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Local TV Holdings and its 19 television stations in 16 markets across the country. Tribune says the proposed separation is designed to maximize shareholder value through the spin-off of Tribune’s publishing assets to an independent company and the tax-free distribution of shares in that company to the stockholders of Tribune. Tribune Company would consist of the company’s principal businesses other than publishing. That includes 42 local television stations in 33 markets, after closing on the acquisition of Local TV, as well as WGN Radio (WGN-AM, Chicago), Superstation WGN America, Tribune Studios, Tribune Digital Ventures, Tribune Media Services, its equity interests in Classified Ventures, CareerBuilder, and The TV Food Network, and its portfolio of real estate assets. Over the last several months, Tribune’s board of directors and management team evaluated a variety of strategic options intended to maximize shareholder value and position the company for long-term growth. As a result of this process, the board has authorized management to pursue the separation of the company’s primary lines of business, broadcasting and publishing. Tribune Publishing Company would be home to Tribune’s publishing assets, including the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, The Baltimore Sun, Sun Sentinel (South Florida), Orlando Sentinel, Hartford Courant, The Morning Call and Daily Press. "Moving to separate our publishing and broadcasting assets into two distinct companies will bring single-minded attention to the journalistic standards, advertising partnerships and digital prospects of our iconic newspapers, while also enabling us to take advantage of the operational and strategic opportunities created by the significant scale we are building in broadcasting," says Tribune President/CEO Peter Liguori. "In addition, the separation is designed to allow each company to maximize its flexibility and competitiveness in a rapidly changing media environment." During the next nine to twelve months, Tribune’s management team plans to develop detailed separation plans for the company’s board of directors to consider. Upon the closing of the proposed transaction, each entity -- Tribune Publishing Company and Tribune Company -- would have its own board of directors and senior management team. "The two companies resulting from this transaction would each have revenues in excess of $1 billion and significant operating cash flow," says Liguori. "We expect that this transaction will serve our shareholders and employees well, and put these businesses in a strong position for continued success." The completion of Tribune’s separation into two companies is subject to a number of important conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals, opinions from tax counsel, further due diligence and the effectiveness of appropriate filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. While Tribune Company intends to pursue the separation of its broadcasting and publishing businesses, there can be no guarantee that the transaction will be concluded or assurances as to transaction terms. CNet: Apple Envisions Touch Screen to Control Key Car Features A newly awarded patent outlines a dashboard touch screen panel that would allow users to mange their car's temperature, wipers, and other functions. "Apple is trying to integrate itself even further into your car with a freshly patented dashboard touch screen," reports CNet. "Granted Tuesday [July 9] by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a patent dubbed 'Programmable tactile touch screen displays and man-machine interfaces for improved vehicle instrumentation and telematics' describes a tactile-feel touch screen that would let you adjust several of the key features and functions in your car." The patent, says CNet, discusses such options as controlling the temperature, the wipers, and the radio all from one panel. "And in a nod toward safety, certain controls would be enabled only when the car is stopped." For example, says the report, a transparent knob on the touch screen could be used to alter the temperature or turn on the wipers when the car is in motion. But that same knob could also activate email and Web browser when the car stops. The touch screen's tactile-feel approach, we're told, is also designed to help drivers push the right buttons without having to take their eyes off the road. The patent itself calls the invention "a revolutionary form of dashboard or instrument panel results which is stylistically attractive, lower in cost, customizable by the user, programmable in both the tactile and visual sense, and with the potential of enhancing interior safety and vehicle operation." CNet notes that the entire concept "could complement Apple's upcoming 'iOS in the Car' -- a feature that would let you control your iPhone directly through your auto's onboard receiver." Gary Knell: NPR Working to Become 'Pandora For News' NPR CEO Gary Knell says the public radio network is working to become "a Pandora for news" -- allowing for customizable playlists of news. Knell tells the Wall Street Journal, "We want to have serendipitous listening, not knowing what the next story is, but we've also got to give people the option of a la carte listening, or they will turn to other places." Knell explained that the system would go through local affiliates so that there "would be a WNYC (New York) experience or a WAMU (Washington) experience that combines the news chops of NPR covering the globe with what WNYC is doing locally, so people will continue to give money to WNYC." He adds that "if we don't do this we're not going to last." Knell says that the digital initiatives have lowered the age of NPR's reach, noting that while the average radio listener is 53 years old, iPhone NPR users average 37 years old, and NPR Music reaches an average age of 28. In an interview with WSJ, Knell also discussed NPR's money situation -- saying that the network cannot run "a lot longer" at a deficit, and noting that the mandate from NPR's board is for a balanced budget by 2015. Clear Channel Settles Two Shareholder Suits Clear Channel tells the SEC that, pending court approval, it has settled two shareholder suits filed against Clear Channel Outdoor. The lawsuits, filed in 2012, stemmed from actions in 2009. In an 8-K filing, Clear Channel says the two suits filed in Delaware Chancery Court alleged that parent Clear Channel Communications breached its fiduciary duties to Clear Channel Outdoor and its stockholders in 2009 by allegedly requiring the latter to agree to amend the terms of a 2005 Revolving Promissory Note to extend its maturity date of the Note and amend the interest rate to below market. The suits were settled, says Clear Channel, "to avoid the costs, disruption and distraction of further litigation, and without admitting the validity of any allegations made in the complaint," with the stipulation signed on Monday (July 8) and a hearing scheduled in court on September 9. A "memorandum of understanding" had been reached in March. Financial Talk Host Ray Lucia Fined for Misleading Statements Syndicated financial talk host Ray Lucia has been ordered to pay $50,000 for giving investors misleading information about his "Buckets of Money" wealth-management strategy. "Lucia falsely claimed his strategy to provide inflation-adjusted income to retirees had been empirically backtested during bear markets, according to an initial decision issued by an administrative judge who also barred Lucia from associating with any investment adviser or broker," writes Bloomberg Businessweek. The administrative judge also ordered Lucia’s San Diego-based firm, Raymond J. Lucia Companies, to pay $250,000 and revoked its investment adviser registration, according to the order. Lucia is reviewing the opinion in the case brought by the SEC and may appeal, says his attorney. "While we respect the commission and its regulatory processes, we respectfully disagree with the majority of the findings of the opinion and the penalties assessed." The SEC accused Lucia last September of having promoted his strategy at a series of investment seminars that he and his company hosted for potential clients. According to the SEC, the only backtesting Lucia performed were some calculations made in the late 1990s and two two-page spreadsheets. The SEC said Lucia used misleading data on inflation rates, investment-adviser fees and returns from real estate investment trusts. Lucia's radio show is listed as syndicated by Business Talk Radio. Radio One to Launch Morning 'News One Now' Show Radio One/TV One Bring Roland Martin to Radio and TV Radio One is launching a three-hour syndicated radio news show for mornings hosted by former CNN commentator Roland Martin in September. The third hour of "News One Now" will also be simulcast on Radio One's cable TV One network. Radio One President and CEO and TV One Chairman Alfred Liggins announces that his companies are developing the new program set to debut prior to the Congressional Black Caucus’ Annual Legislative Conference. Says Liggins, "This is a further evolution of TV One’s commitment to better and more important television for African-Americans, and is also an extension of Radio One’s history and philosophy of making sure we inform, entertain and advocate for the African-American community. This is the first time a network has approached African-American news on this type of commitment level.” The three-hour radio show will air from 7-10am with the last hour simulcast on TV One, offering "news and analysis of politics, entertainment, sports and culture from an African American perspective." Martin has been hosting TV One’s Sunday program "Washington Watch." Liggins adds, "About 50% of African Americans get their news from cable news networks so we now have the opportunity to set the table on a daily basis. The show will serve as the nexus of black thought – when you talk about what’s happening politically, socially, culturally in our communities, this is the place where people will be able to have those discussions." SRN to Launch Initiative on 'America's Culture Wars' Salem Radio Network announces a month-long, multi-platform initiative in August designed to highlight what it calls “the battle over America’s culture wars” and reporting that SRN’s nationally syndicated talk hosts - as well as the network’s 24/7 Washington DC-based SRN News service - will all focus interviews and special features on “the current challenges to traditional American values." SRN talk hosts Bill Bennett, Mike Gallagher, Janet Mefferd, Dennis Prager, Michael Medved and Hugh Hewitt will all participate in the August campaign with live guests and feature interviews focusing on the battle over traditional American values. Interview guests will include former U.S. Senator and 2012 presidential candidate Rick Santorum, recently-named CEO of Dallas-based EchoLight Studios. Says SRN VP of News and Talk Programming Tom Tradup, "Government seems unable to respond to alarming cultural developments, and our courts are increasingly thwarting the will of voters ...especially parents. SRN hopes to highlight the challenges facing America, and to provide solid, actionable ways men and women can stand up to the cultural backwash." SRN News, we're told, will offer a multi-part series drawing on groups like the Traditional Values Coalition, Parents Television Council, as well as groups such as Alliance Defending Freedom, Morality in Media and others. SRN says it will also feature online polls giving listeners the opportunity to voice their opinions on issues such as protecting the Second Amendment, Gay Marriage, the influence of teachers unions on public education and a variety of other topics. Mignon Clyburn to Receive NABOB-PUR Leadership Award Acting FCC Chair Mignon Clyburn will receive the NABOB-PUR Leadership Award from the National Association Of Black Owned Broadcasters during the 37th Annual NABOB Fall Conference and 13th Annual Power Of Urban Radio Forum. The event takes place October 2-4 in Washington DC. NABOB says in a news release, "Chairwoman Clyburn is a strong advocate for underrepresented and underserved consumers, and has worked with NABOB on many important issues since first being appointed as a commissioner in 2009." NABOB notes that Clyburn made history as the first woman to serve as Chair of the FCC, even temporarily. VirtualNewsCenter Announces Partnership with United Stations VirtualNewsCenter -- "the company that pioneered the remotely-produced local news industry nearly seven years ago" -- is now offering services on barter in partnership with United Stations Radio Networks. The new partnership, they say, renews their commitment to a "station-focused customer relationship," while making the service accessible to more stations. "In our previous barter agreement stations had multiple affiliate relations contacts, which led to some frustrations with our customers," says EVP of Affiliate Relations Joel Dearing. "Not only will the relationship with USRN reduce the frustration, but we've found we are able to write agreements at a lower ad commitment per week. This makes our service even more affordable, especially when compared to the increasing costs of a full-time employee." USRN EVP of Sales Rich Baum adds, "At VirtualNewsCenter, they've come up with a terrific business model that provides much-needed services to stations on a barter basis. We're thrilled to be able to partner with their team to help them expand their business through our sales efforts and also to have them give our advertisers deeper reach into a very engaged audience." VirtualNewsCenter says it will continue to provide daily content to stations with unexpired contracts to the company's former barter partner who have agreed to shift their commitment to the new arrangement at the expiration of the existing deal. Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Entercom AC 'Lite Rock' KOIT-FM, San Francisco, Program Director Andy Holt says he will be resigning in the upcoming weeks for personal reasons. Holt says he will be seeking a new opportunity closer to family. Although only at KOIT-FM for the past year and a half, Holt has been with Entercom for 13 years ... Sasha "The Diva" is named midday host at Cox Media Group's Urban AC WALR-FM, Atlanta. CMG Atlanta VP of Programming Tony Kidd tells us, "Sasha The Diva has built a reputation in Atlanta for her celebrity interviews, her fierce sense of fashion and her tireless commitment to the community. She has a fearless approach to life that captivates Atlanta listeners, and we look forward to seeing Sasha the Diva reach an even wider audience in this new role." She previously hosted "Midday with Sasha" on "Magic 95.9" WWIN-FM, Baltimore, before joining WALR-FM last year ... Rhythmic CHR "B106" KOOC-FM, Killeen-Temple, Texas, hires Dani Morgan as midday host. Morgan comes to "B106" from KTTX-FM, Bryan-College Station, Texas ... "NewsRadio" WMNI-AM, Columbus, and WMNI-FM, Worthington, Ohio, will end their simulcast, July 18. WMNI-AM will return to its former Adult Standards format, while WMNI-FM will retain the current format. "NewsRadio" consists of CBS Radio and America's Radio News Network content with local inserts from 6am to 10pm, and syndicated News Talk in overnights and weekends ... Kelly K joins Radiate Media as a traffic reporter for the Cumulus stations in Wilkes Barre-Scranton and Allentown-Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Previously, Kelly was Assistant PD/Music Director and midday host at CHR-Top40 WKRZ-FM, Wilkes Barre.

Tuesday's Radio & Media News - July 9, 2013

Derek Madden Named KLOS-FM Los Angeles Program Director As we first tipped you earlier today in our BTM section, Derek Madden is named Program Director of Cumulus Classic Rock KLOS-FM, Los Angeles. He arrives from sister Classic Rock "The Bone" KSAN-FM, San Francisco. Earlier we said that the official announcement was imminent. We have that now. Says Madden, "San Francisco's been my home for 12 years. It was always going to take something pretty special for me to leave, and now I've found it. As a college kid trying to figure out where radio could take me, my best-case scenario always ended at a station like KLOS. To work with that legendary brand and a top-shelf morning show like Heidi & Frank is literally a dream come true. Thanks to John Dickey, Val Garris, Marko Radlovic and Mike McVay for this tremendous opportunity. And a special thanks to the entire team at KSAN. I'm really proud of what we accomplished." At KLOS-FM, Madden replaces Bill Huning, who exited on Monday. Huning had been serving as Acting PD, as well as APD/MD, although his official title was Programming Coordinator. With Madden's move to Los Angeles, a number of changes are taking place at Cumulus San Francisco. Madden had been both "The Bone" PD and afternoon host of "The Ride Home." Now, KFOG-FM and KSAN-FM PD Bill Pugh will program "The Bone," as well as join the station's morning show alongside Greg Gory and producer Mud. Tim Jeffreys segues from mornings at KFOG-FM to afternoon drive at KSAN-FM. Webster arrives at KFOG-FM to host afternoons, coming in from KUFX-FM, San Jose. Harris Broadcast Names Charlie Vogt CEO Harris Broadcast today announced it has appointed Charlie Vogt as CEO, effective today. The 25-year information technology and communications leader joins Harris Broadcast following nine years as President and CEO of GENBAND where he led a company transformation that encompassed six acquisitions, including Tekelec SSG, NextPoint Networks and Nortel’s VoIP Business. "Through successful organic innovation, attention to operational integration and relentless focus on customers, GENBAND became number one in VoIP and delivered a compound annual growth rate of ~100 percent during his tenure." Vogt succeeds Harris Morris, who was appointed President of Harris Broadcast in 2010 when it was a subsidiary of Harris Corporation. Harris Broadcast is now "a portfolio company of The Gores Group and a global supplier of networking, routing and software solutions that create, manage, transmit, distribute and monetize multimedia content." Outgoing CEO Morris led the company through its divestiture process and guided the transition period to The Gores Group ownership, including the completion of fiscal year 2013. "Charlie's proven track record of taking companies with powerful and promising technology to the next level uniquely positions him to lead this business," says Harris Broadcast Chairman Carl Vogel, also a board member of Dish Network. "His decision to join Harris Broadcast as President and CEO likewise reflects the promise and potential behind the company's market-leading technology, marquee customers and exceptional employees. Charlie will bring to Harris Broadcast vision, leadership, creativity and operational discipline as well as an entrepreneurial and customer-first culture." Vogel adds, "The radio and TV broadcasting industry is embarking on a significant transformation from digital to IP. Charlie was a natural choice as his IP domain knowledge and experience gained while assisting global service providers and cable operators transition to IP has uniquely prepared him to lead the company as this industry undergoes a similar trajectory. We thank Harris Morris for his contributions in guiding Harris Broadcast as we acquired the business and transitioned the company to independence – we wish him well as he pursues new opportunities." Vogt, meanwhile, tells us, "I couldn't be more enthusiastic about joining Harris Broadcast, especially at a time when broadcasters, cable networks and multi-channel content distributors are experiencing so much change – from the impact of on-demand to content delivery on multiple screens and the digital transition to video and audio over IP. I have spent my professional career building businesses, fostering an entrepreneurial culture and introducing disruptive technologies that transform business models. I look forward to leading the Harris Broadcast team to accelerate innovation in areas that will enable the company to experience market-leading growth." Vogt adds, "Through investments in R&D and strategic acquisitions, Harris has built the industry’s most comprehensive portfolio of content management technology. The company is well positioned in the broadcast market with unique capabilities such as combining automation, digital asset management, playout and sales and scheduling into a single solution. These strategic assets form an ideal foundation upon which we will invest and differentiate." Read the full news release from Harris Broadcast here. SiriusXM Surpasses 25 Million Subscribers SiriusXM announces that it added 715,000 net new subscribers in the second quarter of 2013, bringing its total subscribers to more than 25 million. "Strong automotive sales helped drive 15% growth in net additions over the second quarter of 2012 and set a post-merger record for quarterly net subscriber additions." The satellite radio company also announced that it was raising full-year guidance for total net subscriber additions to 1.5 million from its previous guidance of 1.4 million. "The new subscriber additions in the quarter have helped SiriusXM reach an exciting new milestone that reflects the popularity and reach of SiriusXM programming and services," says SiriusXM CEO Jim Meyer. "The quarterly results bolster SiriusXM's leadership position in a dynamic audio entertainment marketplace as we continue our trend of strong, profitable growth. Additionally, we are raising 2013 subscriber guidance to 1.5 million net additions based on our record performance in the quarter." The company also reiterated its existing 2013 guidance for 1.6 million self-pay net subscriber additions. Pandora Reports Another Decline in Listener Hours Pandora has released its own self-reported listening metrics for the month of June, claiming the online streaming music service's listener hours reached 1.25 billion, a 17 percent increase from 1.08 billion in June 2012. However, that's down from 1.35 billion in May 2013 and 1.31 billion in April. Pandora says its (unverified) share of total U.S. radio listening in June was 7.04 percent, an increase from 5.98 percent at the same time last year, but down from 7.29 percent in May of this year. According to Pandora, active listeners reached 71.1 million at the end of June 2013, a 30 percent increase from 54.5 million during June of 2012. That's the one increase from May of this year when it reported 70.8 million. Listener hours reported for June were down for the fourth consecutive month since the company started charging subscribers after 40 hours per month of free mobile use. Gallup Poll: Radio Behind Other Media for News Source Television remains the primary news source for Americans, while the Internet continues rising -- but radio is now behind even print media, according to Gallup's latest poll asking respondents where they turn for news about current events. Television was picked by 55%, followed by the Internet at 21%, print at 9%, and radio at 6%. Within the radio category, radio in general was chosen by 4% and NPR and talk radio each were picked by 1% of respondents. "Few adults of any age say their main source of news is radio," reports Gallup. "While many Americans certainly tune in to radio for entertainment as well as talk radio, it is clearly not the place most turn for hard news about current events." Demographically, radio was the choice of only 3% of 18-29 year olds, 7% of 30-49 and 50-64 year olds, and 4% of those 65 and older. The Internet was much stronger in the two younger demographics, with print only breaking double digits in the 65+ demo. Radio does better among college graduates (11%) than those with high school education or less (4%) or "some college" (5%); 8% of the post-graduate category preferred radio. 8% of those employed favored radio, while 3% of the unemployed did; 6% of Republicans, 7% of independents, and 4% of Democrats chose radio. The results are based on a Gallup poll of 2,048 national adults conducted June 20-24, in which Americans were asked to say, unaided, what they consider to be their main source of news about U.S. and global events. The full Gallup poll report can be found here. Boston Globe: 'Pandora Competing in Local Radio Ad Market' But the Report Questions if Pandora Is Actually Radio The Boston Globe reports that Pandora "recently opened its first sales office in Boston as the Internet music streaming company is aggressively competing with local radio stations for advertising dollars." The Globe's Michael Farrell notes that "Pandora has 29 sales offices in major markets such as Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, and plans more this year, in an effort to boost revenue and pay the artist royalties that run into the millions of dollars each year." Farrell writes, "Despite being the largest music streaming service in the United States and adding listeners, Pandora is losing money -- a lot of money. Last year, it posted a net loss of $38 million." The report questions Pandora's attempts to "convince longtime radio advertisers such as car dealers or furniture sellers that advertising on an Internet station is more effective than marketing over the airwaves." The Globe staff reporter notes that Pandora and other streaming services "are still behind traditional radio in terms of overall listenership and reach in local markets, according to industry specialists." However, Pandora VP of East Coast Operations Andy Lipset tells Farrell, “When you have 200 million registered users, that creates a whole new opportunity to talk to local advertisers. We’ve reached the scale now. We’re a top radio station in Boston because we have so many listeners.” The Globe report quickly adds, "Pandora would not disclose its listener numbers for Boston or other markets." Also offering responses to the streaming music service are Clear Channel's Tim Castelli, Triton Digital's Robert Favre, and Scott Fybush, an independent radio industry analyst in Rochester, NY. Fybush tells Farrell that radio stations "are still offering a demographic that is pretty hard for Pandora to match." However, "What Pandora and other Internet stations can offer is highly targeted advertising. Since Pandora users register with their location, age, and sex, the company has a good idea of who is listening at any given time. So advertisers who want to reach say, Boston-area men between the ages of 18 to 45, would be more likely to get the target audience to hear their commercials than running ads on terrestrial radio, says Fybush. Read the full Boston Globe report here. AdWeek: Lee Abrams' Next Project: All Platforms TouchVision, Abrams Wants to 'Remake the News' with New Network When last we left Lee Abrams he was exiting Tribune Company where he'd worked under then-CEO Randy Michaels. That was three years ago. Now Abrams is back, saying he wants to "remake the news." AdWeek -- in an "exclusive report" -- calls Abrams' new TouchVision venture "a project that is perhaps the most ambitious undertaking thus far in a career that includes major roles in the creation of both Radio Disney and XM Radio." XM, Abrams said, "wasn't really the place to reinvent news and information," nor was Tribune. "They went through all the bankruptcy and craziness" while he was there, he said frankly. "We thought we'd do it without layers and layers of history and conference rooms full of people who were going to question it." According to AdWeek, "So he and his partner Steve Saslow have formed a newsroom staffed by more than 100 folks from local television stations around the country and created a user interface that can be accessed online, on mobile and on tablets. They're calling the new product TouchVision (last year, when it was still being roughed out, the venture was called Think Televisual), and they're hoping to expand to television as well. They're pitching not MSOs but stations with spare spectrum on their digital subchannel frequencies—a cheap but ever-more-popular piece of broadcast real estate." AdWeek's Sam Thielman raises a question we'd want to ask Abrams. "Why bother reinventing it at all? Why not let it migrate onto the Web?" Abrams, we're told, is quick with an answer. "You could drive a truck through the potential for news among 18-44s," he said. "You have TMZ, and it's great, and then you have Fox News and so forth and that's great, too -- very successful. There's a new opportunity to reach the mainstream Americans who find TMZ amusing but kind of dumb, and the [older-skewing] stuff kind of boring. We're looking for a way to find an audience for whom there's nothing really directly servicing their needs." Read AdWeek's full report here. SoundExchange Announces $149M Q2 Royalty Distribution SoundExchange announces second quarter 2013 royalty payments of $149 million, saying that marks their highest quarterly payment to recording artists and record labels to date. The Q2 pay-out, says SoundExchange, marks a 55 percent increase from the year-ago period. Also, SoundExchange says it achieved a final 2012 administrative rate of 4.9 percent. "SoundExchange’s most recent distribution is yet another positive indication of where the industry is heading. More importantly, our low 4.9 percent admin rate means more money in creators’ pockets, and is a testament to our careful stewardship over this sector of the industry," says SoundExchange President/CEO Michael Huppe. In total, SoundExchange has paid more than $1.5 billion to artists and labels. These royalties are paid by Internet radio, satellite radio and cable radio services for their performance of sound recordings, and are distributed by SoundExchange to recording artists and record labels. In addition, SoundExchange works with more than 2,000 digital music services that rely on the organization to administer the statutory license for the use of sound recordings. Radio Show: 'Radio and the Connected Car' Organizers of the Radio Show, jointly produced by the NAB and the RAB, will present a Super Session entitled "Radio and the Connected Car." The session will take place on Thursday, September 19 at 9:15am at the Radio Show in Orlando. "Leading strategists, analysts and researchers will discuss developments in the connected car, what consumers want and where the technology is headed," says the announcement. "This session will reveal data from surveys, focus groups and consumer clinics along with sneak peeks at what car makers and their suppliers have in store for the dashboard of the future. Participants will offfer specific recommendations on what radio can do now to maintain its prominence in the automobile for years to come." We're told that the Super Session will feature research and insight from experts in both connected car technology and the radio industry, including presentations by Roger Lanctot, Associate Director, Global Automotive Practice at Strategy Analytics; and Fred Jacobs, President of Jacobs Media. Bill Rose, SVP of Marketing at Arbitron, will provide introductory remarks. Lanctot's expertise includes defining future trends in automotive safety, powertrain and infotainment systems. He has 25 years experience as an analyst, journalist and consultant. At Strategy Analytics, he specializes in tracking, analyzing and forecasting in-car infotainment systems and in-vehicle connectivity. Jacobs is a top radio consultant specializing in helping radio stations maximize their audience by optimizing marketing, branding and content across all platforms including on-air, social media and mobile. Jacobs' company, Jacobs Media, is a leading mobile application developer through its jacAPPS division, which has created more than 800 apps. Rose heads U.S. marketing efforts for Arbitron, leading marketing related to PPM and diary-based audience measurement services. "Radio and the Connected Car'' is under-written by and developed in coordination with Arbitron. Pandora Again Tops Triton Digtital May Internet Rankings, Clear Channel Remains Strong and Showing Some Gains Pandora remains on top for online listenership as Triton Digital releases its monthly Internet audio rankings for May 2013. Pandora's Domestic Rankings Average Active Sessions (AAS), Monday-Friday 6am-8pm, was down slightly, but this marks a third consecutive month for a decline. Pandora's AAS was about 1.698 million in April, slipping to just over 1.693 million in May. Session starts, though, increased to just under 961.5 million. Clear Channel was again ranked second, with a slight increase for AAS. The rest of the top ten are Slacker, Cumulus, CBS Radio, NPR Member Stations, EMF Corporate, Cox Radio, Entercom and ESPN. For the May 2013 All Streams Ranker (M-F, 6a-8p), Clear Channel was again first, followed by Digitally Imported, Slacker, Prisa Radio, Cumulus, CBS, NPR, EMF Corporate and Entercom. On the full week Domestic Ranker (6a-mid), Pandora is still in first place, with its AAS up slightly. Clear Channel is second, followed by Slacker, Cumulus, CBS, NPR, EMF Corporate, Cox, Univision and Entercom. Triton Digtital's May All Streams Ranker full week stats (6a-mid) show Clear Channel first, with Digitally Imported in second, then Slacker, Prisa Radio, Cumulus, CBS, NPR, EMF Corporate, Cox and a debut from Karnaval.com in tenth. Streaming Beats Service Reportedly in Talks with AT&T Jimmy Iovine's Beats Electronics is set to debut its own streaming music service later this year, and he's reportedly in talks to partner with AT&T when it launches. Iovine has reportedly been talking to AT&T executives, as well as the major labels, to bundle Beats' streaming service (codenamed "Daisy") with AT&T's data plans. Sources tell CNet the negotiations are still early, and if they fall through, Iovine could take his plan to a different wireless carrier. Other reports say that Beats has already been in discussions with a number of carriers, including AT&T. "Daisy" has been in the works for some time, since Beats acquired digital music service Mog last summer. At the time, terms of the deal were not disclosed, but executives familiar with the transaction said Beats paid less than $10 million for Mog, a streaming service with about 500,000 registered users. Plans to partner with a wireless carrier are said to include offering consumers a period of free access to the service, with the goal of converting them to paid subscribers. Repotedly, the point to be agreed involves how much free music would be available and who would pay for the costs. BRS Media Closer to Offering Dot Radio Domains BRS Media says its New gTLD (New generic Top-Level Domain) application to operate the .Radio (dot radio) domain has passed the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) initial evaluation. BRS has been attempting to secure and manage the .Radio domain for four years. ICANN’s evaluation panels determined that "the application was consistent with the requirements set out in the applicant guidebook and have validated that BRS Media's application demonstrates the technical, operational and financial capability to manage a Top-Level Domain Registry." Says BRS CEO George Bundy, “We're pleased and thrilled to have passed Initial Evaluation in ICANN's New gTLD Program. With over 15 years of running a successful Top-Level Domain, few applicants have the depth of experience and understanding to operate and market, an ‘Industry Specific’ New gTLD. Our history has proved, our commitment to administer the .RADIO top-level domain in a professional, reliable, secure and all-inclusive way, while at the same time encouraging innovation and openness in the .Radio domain space.” Entravision and Abacast Form Digital Audio Partnership Entravision Communications and Abacast announce a "comprehensive digital audio streaming and digital ad sales agreement." Under the agreement, Entravision will leverage the Abacast Clarity Digital Radio System as its online streaming solution for 42 of its radio stations, and the companies will jointly offer the Abacast Clarity Digital Radio System to Entravision’s 300 affiliated radio stations. Entravision Solutions will also partner with the Abacast Digital Ad Sales Network to focus on expanding digital ad sales for the Latino market. “Through our partnership with Abacast, we can now deliver superior quality online streaming, which will extend our reach and provide easy multi-platform listening options for our growing audiences across all of our stations,” says Entravision COO Jeffery Liberman. “In addition, Abacast’s focus on digital profitability and multiple ad insertion solutions provides opportunities for our advertisers to enhance digital revenue across our affiliates as they continue to ramp up their digital sales efforts." Abacast CEO Rob Green adds, "This agreement cements Entravision as an Abacast customer and partner to represent our products and digital ad sales, and exemplifies the range of capabilities of the Clarity system. Entravision provides us with tremendous exposure to Latino radio listeners nationwide and we look forward to a mutually-beneficial long-term relationship." TuneIn Signs Multi-Year Minor League Baseball Agreement TuneIn signs a multi-year agreement with Minor League Baseball's "Baseball Interactive Rights Company" (BIRCO) to bring live radio broadcasts of Minor League Baseball games to sports fans, enabling them "to hear live broadcasts on over 200 connected devices." Fans will also be able to listen to games on MiLB.com. Says TuneIn CEO John Donham, "Listening to baseball on the radio is a great American pastime, and by partnering with Minor League Baseball, we are bringing fans a way to enjoy baseball in ways they've never been able to do before. Opening up the world of Minor League Baseball to TuneIn listeners brings us one step closer to our goal of offering all the world's audio to people from wherever they are." The agreement with BIRCO, which manages the digital media rights of its member Minor League Baseball clubs and leagues, and MLB Advanced Media, "ensures baseball fans can listen to many of the 10,000 games played each season." The service will feature regular season, play-off, and championship action from every level of Minor League Baseball, including the Appalachian, California, Carolina, Eastern, Florida State, International, Midwest, New York-Penn, Northwest, Pacific Coast, Pioneer, South Atlantic, Southern and Texas leagues. "Minor League Baseball is excited about its new partnership with TuneIn, and the ability to offer the more than 40 million monthly active listeners on TuneIn access to live games," says VP/BIRCO and Business Services, Minor League Baseball Brian Earle. "We believe this partnership will afford passionate fans an even more expansive and fulfilling connection to their favorite teams and players no matter where they are in the world," Behind the Microphone: The Ins and Outs of Radio Sports Talk "92.9 The Game" WZGC-FM, Atlanta, afternoon co-host Rachel Baribeau exits for a TV job with Raycom Sports' new ACC Network ... Brad Austin is named Program Director and afternoon host at Delmarva’s Country WXCY-FM, Havre de Grace, Maryland, effective July 29 ... "Talk Radio 580" WHP-AM, Harrisburg, afternoon host Bob Durgin will retire on August 2 after a 24-year career at the station ... San Diego market veteran Gene Knight is named Music Director at "Magic 92.5" XHRM-FM, San Diego ... Gina Ferraro joins the morning show at Hot AC "Mix 107.7" WMMX-FM, Dayton. Ferraro previously worked at Total Traffic in Chicago ... .Midday host Jeff Miles exits CHR-Top40 "Q100" WWWQ-FM, Atlanta, after his contract wasn't renewed ... Alexia Gloria is in as a weekend host at Rhythmic CHR "Jammin' Z90" XHTZ-FM, San Diego. She previously was night host at KWIN-FM, Stockton, California ... Active Rock "103.9 The Bear" WRBR-FM, South Bend, Indiana, Program Director Tommy Carroll is promoted to Digital PD for Federated Media's South Bend cluster. Cluster Production and Imaging Director Ron Stryker returns to PD for WRBR-FM ... "Gator Country" WWGR-FM, Fort Myers, afternoon host Buzzy Ford exits ... Country KVOO-FM, Tulsa, hires market veteran Nina Valente for night host.

Monday's Radio & Media News - July 8, 2013

Genesis Media Holdings Acquires Local Focus Genesis Media Holdings, which owns independent radio rep firm McGavren Guild Media, has acquired Local Focus from Kay Olin and Dave Demer. McGavren Guild and Local Focus will operate independently under the Genesis Media Holdings umbrella. Atlanta-based rep firm Local Focus represents more than 350 radio stations, including those of Dick Broadcasting, URBan Radio Broadcasting and Guaranty Broadcasting. "Local Focus is an innovative firm powered by a team of highly-accomplished sales professionals," says Genesis Media Holdings CFO Billy McEntee. "We look forward to working with them to provide an even greater of level of service to radio stations and advertisers." VP of Revenue Dave Demer has been named President of Local Focus, bringing 20 years of experience in radio and event marketing including marketing and sales positions with Clear Channel and Cox Media. Local Focus founder Kay Olin will now act as a consultant to Genesis Media, continuing to build on relationships developed over the years while at Local Focus. "Kay has been instrumental in facilitating the evolution of Local Focus and preparing it for this next step in its growth,” says Demer. “She will add immense value to Genesis Media." Kevin Garrity Joins Genesis Media Holdings as Manager Genesis has named former Cumulus Media Director of National Sales Kevin Garrity to the newly created position of Manager of the company. Garrity, a 26-year radio vet, will focus on building the Genesis Media platform reporting to the board and investors. "I am thrilled to be joining Genesis Media Holdings," says Garrity. "Their commitment to building their platform and investing in the long-term growth of their properties is very exciting and I look forward to playing an integral part in shaping that growth." Says McGavren Guild Media President Lisa Sirotka-Sonnenklar, “I am extremely excited to be working with Kevin to further build McGavren Guild Media. I look forward to the additional support I will gain from his depth of industry experience.” McEntee adds, "Kevin Garrity has excelled at every level of radio sales management. With the addition of Kevin and the acquisition of Local Focus, we are poised for rapid expansion and growth. Management will continue to drive revenue for their respective station partners, while capitalizing on opportunities afforded through the larger Genesis Media group." Dial Global Expands National Sports Sales Team Dial Global names three additions to its national Sports Sales division. Matthew Colborn, who previously was Director of Client Services with US Interactive Media, joins DG as West Coast Director of Sports Sales. Dial Global Account Manager Julie Boruchov takes on a new role as East Coast Director of Sports Sales. Amilia Poin is appointed Sports Coordinator. "I'm thrilled to officially announce Matt, Julie, and Amilia in their new roles. Collectively, they bring a tremendous amount of audio and integrated sales experience, which will supplement our already strong sports sales division and benefit our clients and marketing partners," says Dial Global SVP/Director of Corporate Sports Michael Schreck. "I look forward to working closely with Matt, who brings 15 years' experience developing strategic ad campaigns for multiple high-profile categories. Julie's immeasurable knowledge of the industry coupled with success selling our sports assets and Amilia's understanding of our sports programming have already proven to be invaluable to the success of our sports group." DG CEO Paul Caine adds, "This is an exciting time for Dial Global and our ability to influence the programming and content in sports through the power of sound. We are committed to delivering the best marketing solutions to our clients with our excellent sports content and live event activations. I am confident that we have the right team in place, with the right mix of experience and knowledge to connect the market to Dial Global's compelling content, and to continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in audio." Kellar Radio Talent Institute Begins Today Twenty-two young broadcasters will be taught by a lineup of broadcast professionals at this year's Kellar Radio Talent Institute that begins today on the campus of Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Thirty-eight radio pros are teaching the sessions this year, including Beasley Broadcast CEO George Beasley, Salem Chairman Stu Epperson, CBS Radio President Dan Mason and Morning Show and Talk Radio Boot Camps' Don Anthony. WBT/Charlotte PD Jason Furst and afternoon host John Hancock will teach News/Talk radio sessions. Programming, promotions and interactive sessions are led by WNKS-FM (Kiss FM)/Charlotte PD John Reynolds. Also teaching are Entercom/Greenville, SC, Promotions Manager Keaira Huffman, CCME/Charlotte Digital PD Patrick Sills, 106.5 The End/Charlotte PD Jack Daniel, Curtis Media/Raleigh Radio 96.1 PD Jay Nachlis and Greater Media/Charlotte Director of Interactive Jonathan Mauney. Every session is on the Appalachian State University campus, except for one day in Charlotte where sports broadcasting sessions are led by Mick Mixon, play-by-play announcer of the NFL Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium, Doug Rice of Performance Racing Network at the Charlotte Motor speedway and Scott Lauer of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats at Time Warner Arena. The Kellar Radio Talent Institute is an intense 10-day curriculum whose previous students are now working professionally at Entercom, Clear Channel, CBS, Beasley, Curtis Media, Greater Media, Dick Broadcasting, CNN, Centennial Communications and others... and in positions ranging from traffic, on-air, sales, promotions and interactive... throughout the Carolinas and from Washington, DC, to Los Angeles. "Most importantly," says Kellar Radio Talent Institute Director Dan Vallie, "these students are starting their careers in radio, we are developing the next generation of broadcasters. The students come with enthusiasm and passion for the business, and it's very impressive how industry professionals sacrifice their time to come to the campus to teach sessions and give back to the industry." Vallie, the founder of the National Radio Talent System who is placing Radio Talent Institutes on college campuses across America, adds, "The concept of the National Radio Talent System is to attract, train and coach talented college students who have a passion for the broadcast industry, to be an incubator of talent for radio -- and it is working." The Kellar Radio Talent Institute is named for former broadcaster Art Kellar of EZ Communications who initially funded the Institute. Vallie had been an EZ programmer before becoming a principal of Vallie-Richards-Donovan Consulting. Mason Dixon Re-Ups with Tampa's 'Q105' Veteran Florida radio personality Mason Dixon has signed a new contract with CBS Radio's Classic Hits "Q105 FM" WRBQ-FM, Tampa. Dixon has been heard in the Tampa Bay area for over three decades. He started with "Q105 FM" in 1978. His "Mason In The Morning" is one of the highest-rated shows in the market. "I'm honored to be a part of such an award-winning radio station through so many decades, from the 1970s, through the 80's -- the decade that brought my two daughters into this world -- the '90s and today," says Dixon. "And to be still going strong as Q105 celebrates its 40th Anniversary and I celebrate my 34th anniversary in Tampa Bay indeed makes me a truly blessed man." SVP and Market Manager Ben Hill tells us, "We're very excited to have signed Mason Dixon this week to a new contract. He's a Tampa Bay Icon and Q105 is certainly glad to have him continue with his consistently top rated morning show." Hill also notes that Dixon gives back to the community through the "Mason Dixon Christmas Wish Fund" -- a non-profit providing families needing help with financial assistance, children's toys and more. Hollywood Hamilton to Ride for Wounded Warriors Premiere Networks syndicated host Hollywood Hamilton and his wife Marina will be attempting a 350-mile bicycle ride along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal from Washington DC to Pittsburgh, riding to raise money for the Wounded Warrior project, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping thousands of injured warriors returning home from current conflicts and providing assistance to their families. So far over $5,000 has been raised. Hamilton, who hosts "The Remix Top 30 Countdown" and "Weekend Top 30," tells us, “Our mission is to build awareness for our brave soldiers who fought for our freedom and safety, and to give back to our wounded soldiers. Some of you who personally know us might think, ‘there is no way he could possibly go six days without an Xbox' or 'his wife Marina could never live without a hair dryer.' For those reasons, along with both of us being stubborn and the possibility that we may break up somewhere along the way, we will only be collecting these thoughtful donations based on the miles we cover.” Google Takes 7% Stake in Vevo Google has taken a "small stake" in online music-video service Vevo as part of a deal to keep its content on Google’s YouTube video site. Google’s roughly 7% investment values the four-year-old Vevo at around $650 million, meaning Google put in around $45 million of its own money, according to several reports. While Google hasn't confirmed the amount of its investment, Google said in a statement that it was “excited by their future prospects and to provide YouTube users with the best possible music experience.” Vevo said it wouldn’t offer any comment about the deal. Vevo has long been the most-viewed “channel” on YouTube, according to comScore. As its partnership with Google hung in the balance in recent months, Vevo reportedly held talks with many other technology companies, including Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Twitter, Microsoft and others to help distribute online its music videos from major music-publishing labels Universal Sony and EMI. Most observers, though, doubted that in the end Vevo and YouTube would actually part ways. This is the second time Google has taken a stake directly in a video content company. Last year Google invested in Machinima, another top creator of videos on YouTube, which gets more than a billion unique visitors per month, according to the company. Vevo sells hundreds of millions of dollars in ads that appear with the videos, and it shares an undisclosed portion of the resulting revenue with YouTube. The videos are “embedded” on millions of sites beyond YouTube.com.