* Spanish Broadcasting System's fourth quarter net revenue was down 12% to $36.8 million from $40.9 million. The decline was mainly due to the company's radio division's decrease of 9% to $31.6 million from $34.9 million. Operating income was $10.8 million, more than double the $4.2 million for the previous year's fourth quarter. The SBS posts a loss of $10.3 million (14 cents per share), one third of the 2008 Q4 loss of $30.7 million (42 cents). "Our fourth quarter results reflect the positive impact of our disciplined approach to managing our costs during the global recession, as we generated significantly improved cash flows from our operations for the fourth consecutive quarter," says SBS Chairman & CEO Raul Alarcon. "As we seek to capitalize on the early stages of the rebound in the advertising market, we believe the operating efficiencies in our new broadcast model will become increasingly evident, even as we prudently invest in our content and sales resources." Alarcon says the future should be even brighter. "Looking ahead, our radio, TV and online brands continue to grow, as we cross-promote our multi-platform media assets with both our advertisers and consumers. As the nation's Hispanic population continues its rapid expansion, we believe we are well positioned to benefit given the strength of our diverse media platform and our leadership position in serving this increasingly influential and powerful audience."

TPMedia has all of the recent Q4 reports to date in a special summary section here.

* CBS Corp. CEO Leslie Moonves says he expects upfront ad pricing to grow by double-digits this year. This time, he told investors that the current state of the ad market has him optimistic about growth in the near future. At a Florida conference, Moonves said he's "never seen a scatter market this strong," according to the Wall Street Journal. He revealed that the trends for the first quarter of 2010 showed ad revenue up by a "high-teens percentage" compared to Q1 2009, and are continuing to improve. If the ad market doesn't grow as Moonves expects, he says CBS will still hold on to a large amount of its ad inventory for the scatter market.

* Gilford Securities Senior Analyst Jim Boyle forsees major signs of life in Entercom's ad revenue in 2010. In his latest note, Boyle raises his estimates for growth, predicting 2010 revenue growth of 8.8%, starting with a first quarter increase of 8.5%. "With January-February ETM bookings at +7% two weeks ago and anecdotal data implying March was better, we'd anticipated upside potential," writes Boyle. He says another positive sign is the include weekly inventory tightening, which firms up pricing. "Anecdotal evidence suggests business is firming up weekly, as is pricing, with some inventory sell-outs in February-March – and Q2 'chatter' seems even better."

* BIA/Kelsey: Local advertising revenues for radio and television are expected to reach $34.3 billion in 2014. According to the forecast from the media consulting and research group, that would account for a 2.8% compound annual growth rate from the $29.9 billion in revenue in 2009. Digital revenues for those media are expected to grow more significantly in the same time frame. BIA/Kelsey predicts a 17.8% growth rate for digital. The findings are part of BIA/Kelsey's 2010 U.S. Local Media Annual Forecast. "Broadcasters must evolve to participate in more areas of the media ecosystem," says BIA/Kelsey Chief Strategy Officer and Program Director of Digital Strategies Rick Ducey. "This means developing the right multiplatform and multiple revenue stream strategies, which in turn requires new workflow, partnerships, business models and resources." The new report is available to clients of BIA/Kelsey's new Digital Strategies for Broadcasting. "The mission of DSB is to provide the strategic guidance and market intelligence to the media and technology companies that can help broadcasters successfully transform," says Ducey. DSB is releasing a number of upcoming reports, including research on over-the-top video, building cross-platform audiences and revenues and the success of hyper-local broadcasting. In May, BIA/Kelsey is hosting a conference, Digital Strategies for Broadcasting 2010 at the Hyatt Regency in Jersey City , NJ, May 17-19.

* The NAB calls a musicFIRST appearance at the NAB offices with an inflatable pig a "silly frat-boy stunt." The NAB issued a statement in response to "the newest publicity stunt initiated by supporters of performance tax legislation," says a news release. "The performance tax, supported by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), would levy a new fee on local radio stations for every song aired free to listeners." The NAB release quotes EVP Dennis Wharton as saying, "It's no surprise that RIAA is now employing silly frat-boy stunts, given its well-documented practice of suing college kids to rescue a bankrupt business model. It also seems appropriate for RIAA to use an inflatable pig as its mascot, since its foreign-owned members would be the biggest beneficiaries of performance tax pork. RIAA is losing this issue on Capitol Hill and in the court of public opinion, and today's demonstration represents a new low in a campaign of utter desperation." The broadcast association provided sausage pizza for the five protestors demonstrating outside NAB's offices Wednesday (March 10). "We're suggesting they provide this food to the scores of exploited musicians who have had to sue their record label to recoup allegedly unpaid album royalties," Wharton said.

* The second trial of Internet radio talker Hal Turner, accused of threatening federal judges, ends in a mistrial. Turner's December trial also ended with a mistrial, resulting in the latest airing of the charges in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn. For the second time in three months, a jury tried to decide whether Turner threatened to assault or murder three federal judges, or was only expressing an opinion when he wrote they “deserved to be killed.” A jury of seven men and five women began their deliberations Monday afternoon (March 8) after listening to closing arguments and instructions on the law. Wednesday (March 10), the judge declared a second mistrial when the jurors said they were deadlocked on a verdict. Turner, whose radio show catered to an audience of neo-Nazis and white supremacists, was on trial on a single count of threatening three Chicago-based federal appeals court judges. The charge stems from postings Turner made last June on his radio network blog in which he said the jurists “deserved to be killed” for upholding a local ban on handguns. At the start of the trial, federal prosecutors said they expected a conviction this time because they would present the case differently. Turner's attorney was confident of an acquittal. Neither was correct.

* Ryan Seacrest's stalker pleads no contest to one count of felony stalking in the most recent incident. Chidi Uzomah Jr. had already been convicted last year of assaulting a security guard who was assigned to protect Seacrest. Uzomah will undergo a 90-day psychiatric evaluation, after which he will return to Los Angeles Superior Court for a June 14 sentencing date. He faces up to two years in prison. Los Angeles police Detective Rosibel Smith tells the Los Angeles Times that Seacrest was "very intimidated by Uzomah's presence, by his size" after being informed that the defendant had shown up to see him at the E! building. Uzomah is 6 feet 4 inches tall and 200 pounds.

* Citadel Broadcasting names Darrin Klayman to the new position Vice President of Corporate Sales. Klayman will be responsible for oversight of Citadel's corporate sales division, and will also work closely with Citadel Media, the company's network division. Most recently, Klayman was SVP & Director of Network Sales at Katz Media, where he spent a total of more than 20 years. "Adding Darrin's experience and credibility to our dedicated corporate sales efforts is a key win for our company," says EVP of Sales Mike Pallad. "He has an established rapport with national advertisers and has earned their respect through his years of work within our industry. He will be able to have an immediate impact in monetizing Citadel's unique, consumer-facing assets and offering our clients customized programs that provide the solutions they need." Adds Klayman, "The opportunity to work with the team at Citadel is one I'm truly looking forward to. The company has a strong lineup of local talent and syndicated programming that offers advertisers a versatile lineup of vehicles to reach their desired audience. I'm confident we can build on the successful relationships with established clients while also bringing new advertisers to the fold as we grow our revenue."

* Greater Media names Trip Savery as Director of Sales for the company's Charlotte cluster, effective March 23. Savery was most recently SVP at Curtis Media Group and General Manager of WQDR-FM, Raleigh. Previously, he was GM at WCHL-AM, Chapel Hill, and WDNC-AM, Durham. "We are thrilled to have Trip join the Greater Media family," says Greater Media Charlotte President & Market Manager Rick Feinblatt. "His leadership and vision will be a great asset to our outstanding organization."

* Mark Keefe is the new Program Director of non-commercial Triple-A "88Nine Radio" WYMS, Milwaukee. Most recently Keefe was Operations Manager for Wilks' four-station cluster in Reno, NV, and was Program Director and midday host at Reno's Triple-A KTHX-FM. "The opportunity to contribute to a progressive, community-conscious radio station like RadioMilwaukee is more a gift than a challenge," says Keefe. "The station is fortunate to have a talented and bright staff working hard every day to further a vision of quality programming." A 20-year-plus radio veteran, Mann has served as an Operations Manager and Program Director at several stations over the past 14 years.

* "Newsradio 780" WBBM-AM, Chicago, names Julie Mann as its new Managing Editor. Mann replaces Operations Manager Dennis Hayes, now with Chicago's News Talk WLS-AM, who handled the duties of Managing Editor. Mann joined WBBM as a reporter and news anchor in 1997, and has been a suburban bureau chief since 2002. Prior to joing the CBS Radio station, Mann was a news anchor for Metro Networks on WMAQ-AM, Chicago.

* Salem Conservative Talk WIND-AM, Chicago, officially names Amy Jacobsen as morning show co-host. We previously reported that Jacobsen was going to be named Big John Howell's new co-host. The official announcement says she starts at WIND, March 24. Last week, we reported that Chicago media reporter Robert Feder wrote, "No one is supposed to know it yet, but Jacobson is close to accepting an offer" to, as Feder puts it, "bridge the gender gap." Jacobson is a controversial reporter who landed a radio news job after her Chicago television career at WMAQ-TV blew up in 2007. Reported Feder last week, "Salem's WIND wants her to become the co-host of Big John Howell’s 5-9am morning show. The position has been open since December when Cisco Cotto left for Citadel's News-Talk WLS-AM, where he now hosts 9-11am and, coincidentally, works with Jacobson." Jacobson, 40, had been employed at WLS since June 2008. She was a regular contributor to Roe Conn’s afternoon show from March 2009 until last January, and most recently has been a reporter handling news and traffic duties for Cotto’s midday show.

* Salem Communications splits its Christian programming simulcasters in Orlando, as one goes with "The Biz." Salem's WTLN-AM and WHIM-AM had been simulcasting. Now WHIM flips to Business Talk. Observers are asking if this could be a new trend for Salem which normally airs either Christian religious programming or Conservative Talk on its stations. However, Orlando becomes the fourth market in which Salem is offering Business Talk. San Francisco, Seattle and Minneapolis have preceded Orlando for similar Salem format flips.

* The Tom Kent Radio Network is launching two new shows with syndication partner Citadel Media. The two shows are set to start Monday (March 15) — an afternoon drive program and the lunchtime "Your Request Show Live." The afternoon drive show is suited to all contemporary music formats, says TKRN. It will use Kent's proprietary Customized Linked Automatic Systems Solution for localization. "Tom is constantly looking for innovative ways to address the needs of local stations, and his CLASS system is a truly unique approach," says Citadel Media SVP of Programming & Distribution Carl Anderson. "These two new afternoon programs allow tremendous flexibility for affiliates and will serve as perfect complements to his full slate of offerings." TKRN also offers Tom Kent's own show, weeknights 7pm-midnight; and two weekend programs — the Saturday-night "Ultimate Party" and the Sunday "My 70s Show." "Every show we produce shares a common goal — to provide the listener with the music they love and want to hear in a fun, approachable way that keeps them coming back," says Kent. "These two new products offer unparalleled customized content making each broadcast unique to the station airing it. It truly is the station's own show and its own music, and it will work across a wide array of formats."

* Skip Joeckel's Talk Shows USA is adding short-form features to its lineup. Talk Shows USA has previously syndicated only long-form talk programs, but is now also spotlighting the short-form features on its Website at www.talkshowsusa.com. Joeckel says there's an interest in short form, as listeners find that short-form features often offer meaningful, relatable and unique information that has value to their fast-paced lives. "In our conversations with program directors and sales mangers, it's come to our attention that they're interested in short-form features that their sales departments can use to sell to specific advertisers," says Joeckel. "Home improvement, high tech, autos and lifestyle are just a few of the help-friendly categories that advertisers like to be associated with." Sales advice on how to sell these features is provided by sales consultant Jim Tazarak.

* This week's BFA Golden Mike Award dinner raises $200,000 for the Broadcasters Foundation of America. The black tie gala honored New York Mayor Michael Bloombeg, founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg News for his contributions to the radio and television industries. Bloomberg encouraged those in attendance to use their time, money, and talent to help those less fortunate. His award was presented by BFA Chairman Phil Lombardo, the CEO of Citadel Communications; BFA President Jim Thompson; and WOR, New York, personality John Gambling, who served as MC for the Monday evening event.

* Alpha Broadcasting Chairman & CEO Larry Wilson — aka Country music songwriter! Wilson has written a song with artist Steve Azar, "I Thought I Missed You, But I Didn't." Although best known for starting radio companies — first Citadel, and now Alpha — Wilson is also a recording artist. At least now he is. Wilson is featured on Azar's recording doing a spoken-word interlude. The two men didn't know each other until recently. Azar visited Alpha's KUPL, Portland, and the two began working on the song over lunch. "I Thought I Missed You" has just been released on Azar's own Ride Records. Although not a well known fact, Wilson says, "I've written a bunch of songs over the years. But none of them has ever been recorded or released." And now you know the rest of the story!

* Arbitron Sports releases the first comprehensive report of PPM Pro Football Play-by-Play Estimates. The new Arbitron division's "Arbitron Sports Report: PPM Listening for Pro Football" covers In Game, Play-by-Play estimates for the 2009-2010 professional football season and includes 25 teams in 23 markets where the PPM service has been commercialized. Results are available to subscribing agencies, advertisers, stations and teams. With these reports, advertisers are better able to evaluate the considerable audience sports play-by-play has throughout the season and in multiple markets across the U.S. “While only one football team wins the Super Bowl, each professional team in those 23 PPM markets can consider their In Game broadcasts winners this year,” says Chris Meinhardt, Arbitron Sports Manager. “Those teams with play-by-play broadcasts have believed for years radio was an integral part of a fan’s experience. Now, thanks to the level of audience detail provided by the PPM ratings service we can see that passion and loyalty with each professional team averaging more than 100,000 listeners for each broadcast.” Highlights from the report include: The Chicago Bears were tops in average game audience with 626,600 listeners; the New York Giants were second with 457,000 listeners per game followed by the Philadelphia Eagles with 422,400 listeners; the PPM ratings service shows not only enormous amounts of listeners, but shares of listening that dominate local markets; and, in Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Boston, Minnesota and Baltimore, the In Game broadcasts average more than 40 shares among all Men aged 25-54. “What you see is ratings that closely resemble those in broadcast television for sporting events,” adds Meinhardt. “Often regardless of a seasonal record, fans follow their team and radio provides opportunities for fans on the go.”

* CRN Digital Talk Radio and the Astor Broadcast Group are partnering to create a new Talk format. One of Astor's AM stations will debut the new "Southern California Talk" format March 15; another, on April 1. CRN says the new programming will bring back many "Southern California favorites" while introducing a number of new faces. KSPA-AM, Anaheim will debut the format next week, while KFSD-AM, San Diego, will start it two weeks later. Says CRN Digital President & CEO Michael Horn, "Individually the AM stations have been hard to sell. Our new partnership allows us to package Art's two AM stations together along with the line-ups also being offered on one of our CRN channels. Together, our three outlets will provide a strong sales story for local and national advertisers alike." The reference to "Art" is to Art Astor, who heads Astor Broadcast Group. Horn is acting as program and sales consultant. He says the format offers much needed variety to the current talk offering in Southern California. The lineup includes a number of TRN-distributed programs. One goal of the new programming "is to keep tape delayed programming to a minimum," says Horn. "We want the listeners to be able to participate with the talent to create the most local feel possible. Budgets are tight and syndicated programming makes sense in that respect, but we chose to include talent based in Southern California." Both stations will air CNN newscasts.

* Superadio Network is launching the interactive "Saturday Night Online Live" with Tim "Romeo" Herbster. The show, to be broadcast live from Philadelphia, is aimed at Mainstream CHR-Top40 stations, and starts March 27. The Saturday night "crowdsourcing" program will air 7-midnight. It's built around "crowdsourcing," the process of creating content by tapping into the wishes of the crowd. Listeners will have the ability to follow along with the show and be part of the activity taking place at any time through the online connection. Herbster — who joined "Q102" WIOQ, Philadelphia, in December, as Program Director and afternoon host, as well as Clear Channel Philly cluster Director of Digital Programming — says of the new syndicated gig, "I am thrilled to join the Superadio Network family and excited to launch this innovative piece of programming that will enhance any stations existing line-up. We have developed many new features that we feel will be groundbreaking for syndicated shows. We have our own social network with added incentives for our VIP listeners along with the world's first listener-to-artist direct link via Chatabase." Chatabase allows listeners to go into the homes and personal lives of the stars. There will be an On Demand hour where listeners, through the show's Website, will be asked to vote and choose every song played during that hour. Says Superadio SVP of Programming & Affiliate Relations Rich O'Brien, "Romeo is uniquely talented, with a track record of success in major markets and world-wide digital platforms. We think he can be a ratings game changer." Premiere Radio Networks will provide exclusive advertising sales representation for the new show.

* Missouri U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill is the latest to openly oppose the sale of KFUO-FM, St. Louis. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports McCaskill's staff saw the previous article on Senator Kit Bond's opposition to the sale of the Classical station by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to Gateway Creative Broadcasting (“Joy FM”). Sarah Bryan Miller writes McCaskill's staff sent her a message that their office is on it as well. McCaskill’s deputy press secretary, Laura Myron, writes, “If you’re planning on running a follow-up, I can tell you that from our perspective, our legislative staff have been following the issue closely and have been in contact with the FCC regarding the sale. Our office is interested in and will be keeping a close eye out for the results of any inquiry into this situation.” Writes Miller, "That means that a sizable portion of the region’s Congressional delegation has now expressed some concern." Representatives John Shimkus and Lacy Clay took their unhappiness over the sale to the floor of the House last week. Previously, we reported that Bond said, "I have asked the Federal Communications Commission to initiate a Congressional inquiry into this matter. I look forward to notifying you of the outcome of their inquiry.”

* The NFL radio mobile package is moving from Sprint to Verizon Wireless in a new four year deal. NFL football radio play-by-play and NFL Network weeknight game coverage have been available on smartphones through the league's deal with Sprint. However, the NFL says the mobile availability of those radio broadcasts will be move to Verizon this season. The four year, $720 million deal makes NFL Mobile part of Verizon's subscription V Cast service.

* Chuck Wilson returns to ESPN Radio this weekend, hosting “Baseball Tonight,” “Football Tonight” and others. The return of Wilson — named by Sports Illustrated as runner-up for "Best National Radio Host" of the decade — is "a ray of hope ... for intelligent sports-talk radio," writes the Providence Journal's Jim Donaldson. "Wilson has always been the perfect host for the mature, as opposed to immature, sports fan," says Donaldson. "There never has been a better on-air interviewer than Wilson. Whether in Providence back in the 1980s or in the 14 years he was with ESPN, he always had interesting guests who enjoyed going on his show because no one worked harder to prepare than he did. Wilson unfailingly asked insightful, probing questions that left his listeners both well-informed and highly entertained." Wilson is back, beginning Sunday (March 14), when he’ll host the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Selection Show on ESPN Radio from 5:30-9pm. “It feels great to be back,” says Wilson. “I’m excited to rejoin my colleagues at ESPN Radio. Wilson came to Providence from Rochester in the summer of 1981 to do sports reports during afternoon drive time on WEAN and, more importantly, start a Sports Talk show. “Chuck Wilson on Sports” became a top-rated program, both at WEAN and then, after the sale of that station resulted in a format change, at WICE. When the broadcast rights to Providence College basketball shifted from WICE to WPRO, Wilson switched stations, also. His career in Providence came to an end in the spring of 1993, when WPRO was sold. By that time, he’d been working weekends at ESPN radio for more than a year. He began working fulltime at ESPN in 1994 and moved from weekends to weeknights the following year, when the network launched “Gamenight” – the program he hosted for 10 years. "The first host hired by ESPN when it was a fledging venture, Wilson and his co-host, Tony Bruno, often had spirited – but certainly not mean-spirited – debates," writes Donaldson. More from the Providence Journal...

* "Sports Radio 560" WQAM-AM, Miami, host Jim Mandich says he's leaving his afternoon show to battle cancer. Mandich, a former Miami Dolphins tight end, tells the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson he will not return to the radio show. Mandich says he's receiving chemotherapy and that his "talk-show days are done," but that he "would love to continue announcing Dolphins games." Jackson calls Mandich, 61, "one of South Florida's most popular sportscasters." Mandich tells Jackson, "I was led to believe there are a lot of positive outcomes with this condition. My mind frame is strong. I feel very good. I'm surrounded by the best professionals at the Sylvester Center. I have a lot of love from family and friends.'' Mandich's status with the Dolphins broadcasts has been in question as the games are moving from WQAM to WINZ-AM and WBGG-FM. The sports talker has been off the air for more than a month, since taking a leave of absence from WQAM, when he was diagnosed with a bile duct tumor.

* You CAN'T say that on News Talk WGN-AM, Chicago — orders Tribune Co. CEO Randy Michaels. Staffers at "WGN Radio 720" can't use the F-word. No, not that one. They can't use the word "Famed." Nor the A-word, "Alleged." Not even the B-word phrase, "Behind closed doors." And a lot of other words — more than a hundred more! Michaels has issued a memo with a long list of words and terms not to be used on the station. Chicago media reporter Robert Feder reports that Michaels' memo has put "WGN news staffers at a loss for words." Writes Feder at Vocalo.org, "The man at the top of the troubled media empire took time out of his real job this week to issue a list of words and phrases — 119 of them, to be exact — that must never, ever be uttered by anchors or reporters on WGN-AM (720), the news/talk radio station located five floors below his office in Tribune Tower." Feder has the full list here, courtesy of WGN News Director Charlie Meyerson, who passed on what he identified as Michaels’ “list of forbidden ‘newsspeak’ words and phrases” in a memo to his staff, with the explicit warning: “Don’t say them on WGN.” Feder tells us, in his report, "Meyerson, a veteran Chicago newsman, has long championed the idea of delivering the news in a down-to-earth, conversational manner. That’s all well and good." As Meyerson explained in his memo, quotes the Vocalo report, “The real goal here is to avoid using words that make you sound like you’re reading, instead of talking — that shatter the image you’re speaking knowledgeably to one person. By not using ‘newsspeak,’ you enhance your reputation as a communicator.” But Meyerson takes it a step further, directing his staff to keep tabs on each other’s compliance: They’re to report any on-air infractions by their co-workers, making sure to note the precise time and date on “bingo cards” he provided that contain a random assortment of Michaels’ forbidden words. Feder's reaction, "If you ask me, that’s just plain creepy." Oh, yes, one more observation by the veteran Chicago media reporter: "What’s even more disturbing is that the CEO of a major institution would engage in such petty and insulting micromanaging of subordinates."

* Arbitron's new CEO William Kerr will be back on Capitol Hill this week to talk about PPM. Kerr told a Credit Suisse Media Conference session Monday (March 8) that he will meet with House Oversight Committee Chairman Edolphus Towns (D-NY). Kerr will give Towns a briefing on Arbitron’s proposed changes to the PPM system. When Arbitron sent him a copy of its February 12 SEC filing outlining the changes, Towns said he wanted more details about the proposals to satisfy criticisms of the Portable People Meter system of radio ratings. Arbitron is proposing in-person recruiting of PPM panel members in the high-density Black and Hispanic areas in the top 25 PPM markets by the end of this year, moving to address-based sampling in all 50 PPM markets by 2011, convening a minority leadership council, and conducting “advertiser outreach” on behalf of minority radio. At the Monday investor conference, Kerr said, "We have been in very active dialog with both the MRC and with the members of the [PPM] Coalition. I am hopeful that we have a game plan and a timetable which seems to make sense for all parties that will enhance our ability to achieve the accreditation that we’re looking for with our markets — and also can be done in a way that is responsible for us in terms of being a commercial enterprise concerned about our shareholders. And one that will be helpful for radio in aggregate, not simply for a subset of players in the field." Discussing any impact changing methodology will have, Kerr added, "I’m not sure whether it will, in fact, change the ratings. I think it will, in fact, help us reach more effectively, particularly the 18-34-year-old group. That is one of the groups that is hardest to reach and I think that is where the cellphone activity will be most beneficial."

* Liberty Media expands its global assets as it assumes control of satcaster WorldSpace. Founded in 1990 by Noah Samara, WorldSpace launched with "a mission to provide digital satellite audio, data and multimedia services primarily to the emerging markets of Africa and Asia." A pioneer of digital satellite radio, Samara was also instrumental in the development of the satellite radio industry through his early involvement with XM Satellite Radio in the United States. Now, Liberty Media — which already owns 40% of Sirius XM Radio in the U.S. — is about to take over WorldSpace. Last September, a Liberty Media subsidiary assumed control of WorldSpace, which has been reorganizing in Chapter 11 bankruptcy since 2008, and defaulted on its financing owed under a court-approved plan. Reportedly, Liberty Media has invested $21 million into WorldSpace since assuming control, and will now purchase its assets outright.

* Grupo Latino Radio parent Grupo Prisa sells a stake in the company to Liberty Acquisition Holdings. The deal involves a 150 million euro rights issue to current Prisa shareholders. Liberty Acquisition, which is not related to Liberty Media, is giving Grupo Prisa access to up to $900 million in cash, subject to redemptions by Liberty public shareholders, in exchange for newly issued Prisa shares and newly issued class A ordinary shares and convertible non-voting shares in Prisa. They will be issued directly to Liberty's shareholders in exchange for their Liberty shares. After the deal is completed, Liberty Acquisition Holdings shareholders and warrantholders will comprise over 50% of Prisa's shareholder base on a fully diluted basis. "Liberty's investment in Prisa demonstrates their strong belief in the underlying value of Grupo Prisa's market-leading positions in educational publishing, press, audiovisual and digital, and in our strategy for growth," says Grupo Prisa Board Chairman Ignacio Polanco.

* Rush Limbaugh says he will leave the U.S. for medical services if the Obama health care bill passes. The comment came when a caller asked the conservative talker what he'd do if he needed health care if the health care legislation, as currently pending, becomes law. "I'll just tell you this, if this passes and it's five years from now and all that stuff gets implemented – I am leaving the country," said Limbaugh. "I'll go to Costa Rica." But would Costa Rica really be where he'd want to go? That country has a government-run health care system spread out over 30 hospitals and 250 clinics. Non-citizens living there can pay a monthly fee for coverage, or join the national health care insurance provider. So, how about Cuba? Yes, Limbaugh mentions Cuba also. [Hear it here, from TPMedia.]

* “King Country” KKNG, Oklahoma City, moves from 93.3 to 97.3, the former home of “Jack FM” KOJK. The move, which occurred Monday afternoon (March 8), gives KKNG a weaker signal, from a 100kw Class C signal at 93.3 to only 1,000 watts on Class A 97.3. With the frequency move, gone is the entire airstaff, and a change of format to Classic Country. TPMedia Correspondent Ken Matthews reports all currents and recurrents have been removed from the Country format as well as all live hosts. Morning hosts KC Sheppard and Bill Thomas and afternoon host James Ayers have all exited. Program Director Kevin Christopher, who remains, confirms the relocated station is now airing a Classic Country format "bringing back all of the music that made KKNG great." The frequency change for KKNG opens up the more powerful 93.3 for co-owned KOJK to launch a new format on the more powerful 93.3 signal. Speculation is strong, says Matthews, that the new format will be different from, but in some ways similar to, "Jack FM" — but with the new branding of "Tim FM." Owner Tyler Media has registered the domains "933TimFM.com" and "TimFM933.com" through a subsidiary. While Christopher won't confirm "Tim FM," he does say "something new and exciting is coming soon to 93.3.”

* Curtis Media is buying Radio Disney's WCOG-AM, Greensboro, for $350,000. The station recently went silent, after Disney stopped airing Radio Disney programming. Disney began retreating from medium and small-size markets in favor of Internet delivery and new media. Disney said it would sell the stations that went dark. WCOG had been carrying Radio Disney's youthful programming since 2000. The company purchased it in 2005. Bill Schutz brokered the transaction for Radio Disney, while John Pierce handled the deal for Curtis Media.

* TKO Radio Network adds Rick Dees to its Classic Top 40 weekend lineup. Dees will replace Charlie Tuna with a specialty weekend offering of his "Weekly Top 40" show featuring Classic Top 40 hits of the 1980s. "We're excited about the partnership with TKO and the opportunity to add even more listeners and fun to the weekend with my Weekly Top 40, 80's Edition," says Dees. TKO's Susan Thompson adds, "This is a perfect match. The Dees name is synonymous with top 40 radio and we play only the best of the Classic Top 40 hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s. We are thrilled to add Rick Dees, household name and proven ratings giant, into our powerhouse-personality lineup."

* A coalition of public interest organizations is asking the FCC to make increased diversity in the media a priority. The coalition includes the Center for Media Justice, Center for Rural Strategies, Free Press, Media Access Project, Media Alliance, among others. The collective group has sent a letter to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski asking that the Commission make increased diversity in the media and broadband communications landscape a top priority. In a joint statement, the groups explain, "Historically marginalized communities still face countless barriers to their own members' provision and ownership of communications services. The Communications Act instructs the Commission to examine these barriers and take steps to eliminate them. This Commission has taken strides in this area, yet much work remains to be done to address persistent and growing digital divides. We urge the Commission to implement better data-gathering practices regarding the ownership of media outlets by minorities and women, and to examine diversity in pending proceedings at the Commission." The groups say that communities of color still face numerous barriers of entry into the media world. "These barriers to diversity have of late only grown larger, due to a variety a factors including economic recession, industry practices and public policies that have ignored or even widened the digital divide, and increased concentration in media and telecommunications ownership."

* CBS Radio launches “The Fan Sports Network,” the first four channel HD Radio digital multicast station. "106.7 The Fan" WJFK-FM is now offering sports followers in the Washington DC area subscription free access to CBS Radio's biggest sports radio stations in the Northeast including Baltimore’s WJZ-FM (HD2), New York’s WFAN (HD3) and Philadelphia’s WIP (HD4). In a Monday (March 8), news release, CBS Radio calls this "a first for the industry." Harris Broadcast Communications provided CBS Radio with the complete transmission system to support this inaugural HD4 station. Through the use of the innovative, cutting edge and cost-effective technology of the HPX30 transmitter, WJFK is able to broadcast its sports quadcast within the new FCC-authorized power level with crystal-clear digital reception. Says CBS Radio Programming VP Chris Oliviero, “This industry milestone is a great way to further promote and distribute the premier programming on CBS Radio’s exclusive portfolio of sports radio stations. Washington DC is home to a diverse range of sports fans, many originally from other parts of the Northeast, making WJFK an ideal home for this breakthrough quadcast. We’re thrilled to offer local audiences various opinions and insights from the best sports stations up and down the East Coast.” Boomer Esiason, co-host of morning drive on WFAN, and former NFL and University of Maryland quarterback, tells us, “I’ve witnessed first hand the enthusiasm for sports in the DC Metro area – not just for the local teams but the entire landscape of professional and college sports. Being able to interact and re-connect with the fans is a great way to expand the dialogue and debate that makes sports radio so unique.” WJFK’s Lavar Arrington adds, “Having spent many years of my football career in New York and Pennsylvania I’m very familiar with WFAN and WIP and know they put out great programming – even if I didn’t always agree with what they were saying. Hopefully they’ll be kind to me now that they are broadcasting in my hometown.” WFAN "Sports Radio 66" pioneered the all-sports format in 1987, and "610 WIP" debuted soon thereafter. In November 2008, CBS Radio launched "105.7 The Fan," Baltimore’s first FM sports station. WJFK introduced its 24/7 sports format to DC residents in July 2009.

* Two shareholders oppose Citadel Broadcasting's reorganization plan. Citadel shareholders Virtus Capital and Kenneth S. Grossman Pension Plan are opposing the reorganization plan, reports Chicago's Daily Herald. Citadel's plan to carry out agreements negotiated before the Chapter 11 filing on December 20 was filed by Citadel, February 3. In addition to extinguishing existing stock, the plan would reduce debt by $1.4 billion, while giving 90% of the new stock plus a new $762.5 million term loan to holders of $2.076 billion in secured debt. The two shareholders contend a turnaround in the media business is in progress. They claim the plan "severely and misleadingly undervalues" the business and "short-changes" creditors and stockholders." They say projections in the disclosure statement don't reflect the industry turnaround and omit "meaningful cost savings" that are already in place. They also object to stock incentive bonuses where senior management could receive up to 10 percent of the reorganized company. At a proper valuation, the stockholders believe executives will take home between $135 million and $180 million in new stock. Even at the company's depressed values, they see managers receiving $82.5 million to $110 million in stock.

* Jelli and Triton Media's Dial Global are launching "crowdsourced" radio into syndication. "Rock Jelli" and "Pop Jelli" will air in markets nationwide, in addition to streaming live at <>www.jelli.net. As part of the roll out, Jelli and Triton, through Dial Global, have signed deals with 10 new FM stations — WBOS, Boston; WPST, Philadelphia; KXTE, Las Vegas; WJBX, Fort Myers; WJLK, Monmouth-Ocean, NJ; WKRL, Syracuse; WKLL, Utica; KISN, Bozeman; KBAZ, Missoula, MT; and KTRS, Casper, WY. Jelli is a Web-based game that lets listeners search a catalog of songs and vote for what they want to hear. Other players vote songs up or down to decide what will actually air next. When a song is actually playing on the air, listeners can also vote whether it Rocks or Sucks. If enough players think it Sucks, the song is taken off the air instantly, even if it's in mid-song. "Each version of Jelli – Rock or Pop – is designed to provide the player both a fun and engaging experience at their favorite radio station's Website, and the casual listener a rich and entertaining new form of radio," says Dial Global Programming President Kirk Stirland. "Jelli is designed to fit right into the sound of each affiliate station, and to stand out to both listeners and players as a unique experience."

* Jurors have begun deliberations in the second trial of Internet radio "shock jock" Hal Turner. For the second time in three months, a jury is trying to decide whether Turner threatened to assault or murder three federal judges, or was only expressing an opinion when he wrote they “deserved to be killed.” The Bergen Record reported that a jury of seven men and five women began their deliberations Monday afternoon (March 8) in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn after listening to closing arguments and instructions on the law. They recessed at 5pm without reaching a verdict and were to resume their deliberations at 9am Tuesday (March 9). As of Tuesday night, there was no report of a verdict being reached. The Bergen Record has been covering the second trial of Turner, a North Bergen resident. Turner, whose radio show catered to an audience of neo-Nazis and white supremacists, is on trial on a single count of threatening three Chicago-based federal appeals court judges. The charge stems from postings Turner made last June on his radio network blog in which he said the jurists “deserved to be killed” for upholding a local ban on handguns. Turner’s first trial ended in a hung jury in December. If convicted this time, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

* Senator Kit Bond (R-MO) calls for a Congressional inquiry into the planned sale of Classical KFUO-FM, St. Louis. The controversial sale of the station by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to Gateway Creative Broadcasting already received criticism on the floor of the House. Now, Bond – the senior U.S Senator from Missouri – writes in a note responding to the Musicians’ Council of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s letter opposing the sale, "I understand your concerns. In response to your request, I have asked the Federal Communications Commission to initiate a Congressional inquiry into this matter. I look forward to notifying you of the outcome of their inquiry.” The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Bond joins the odd political couple of Reps. John Shimkus (R) and Lacy Clay (D), who recently denounced the sale on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in back-to-back speeches. The published report notes that the FCC does not concern itself with format changes. The sale would end KFUO’s 62-year run as an outlet for classical music and replace it with Christian Contemporary music. However, opponents have brought out other issues with the sale, including allegations that Gateway lied to the Commission on its application, stating that it had met the FCC’s financial requirements at the time it filed in October, when it was actually in debt; and allegations of illegal discriminatory practices on the part of the LCMS and its representatives in the actual sales process.

* Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty’s modified 2011 budget proposal zeroes out public broadcasting. The revised state spending plan eliminates the entire $2 million general-fund appropriation for public broadcasting, including $250,000 for Minnesota Public Radio. The 2011 fiscal year begins July 1. MinnPost.com reports the zeroing out would extend through the 2012-13 biennium, even though Pawlenty would be out of office by then. It primarily hits the state’s six public television stations, which would lose a collective $1.36 million in FY11. Public radio stations would see $387,000 less beyond MPR's $250,000. MinnPost's David Brauer notes that public broadcasters are in a tough position arguing against draconian cuts when hospitals are set to take a 77% reimbursement hit for indigent coverage under General Assistance Medical Care. Another sympathy-sapper: the nonprofit media just received a windfall from the Legacy Amendment, which has funneled new sales-tax millions into arts, cultural and historical programming.

* California State Senator Roy Ashburn outs himself as gay on "AM 1180 News Talk" KERN-AM, Bakersfield. Ashburn's declaration of his homosexuality in the wake of a DUI arrest while leaving a Sacramento gay bar came as he was a guest on Inga Barks' show on the station. It was his first interview since his DUI arrest. "I am gay," Ashburn told Barks, Monday (March 8). "Those are the words that have been so difficult for me for so long. But I am gay." He added, "Through my own actions, I made my personal life public." Ashburn has had a record of voting against gay rights legislation. He claimed that his past votes were a reflection of his constituents' wishes, not his own feelings. Ashburn, whose term expires this year, will be arraigned next month on two misdemeanor DUI counts.

* For the first time, spending on digital/online advertising and marketing will overtake print in 2010. That's according to new projections from Outsell, Inc. In an industry crossover event, companies will spend $119.6 billion on online and digital strategies, from search engine keywords to Webinars, while committing $111.5 billion to print methods such as newspaper and magazine ads. Overall, U.S. spending on advertising and marketing will increase in 2010 by just 1.2% to $368 billion. Outsell’s "Marketing and Ad Spending Study 2010: Total US and B2B Advertising" forecasts spending, share, and growth for five media types — online, events, print, TV/radio and PR/other. It also deals with methods used within each, from social networking to mobile/wireless marketing. "Advertisers are directing dollars toward the channels which generate the most qualified leads and most effective branding," says Outsell VP & Lead Analyst Chuck Richard. "As they emerge from the recession, they need more accountability, and they’re spreading their spending over a widening set of options."

* Kelly Music Research: "The Final Results &ndash Digital Callout Research Delivers." KMR releases Part Five of their series of reports on music research for radio, clearly supporting digital over telephone callout, but calls for "The Secret Sauce" in utilizing digital research. "It’s time to bust a myth," says the latest report. "Even though Radio has embraced the power of computers for every other aspect of its business, when it comes to music testing, many broadcasters are still clinging to old, pre-digital methods. Favoring telephone over computer models, many Radio programmers and consultants think that it is not possible to get reliable music research through on-line computer surveys. We have found this notion to be FALSE. Conducted properly, online music research on a computer can be every bit as accurate and reliable as telephone callout or auditorium testing, which uses dials, pencil and paper or other accepted scoring devices. Further, utilizing digital platforms for music testing are more cost efficient. This much is crystal clear: The Secret Sauce in online music testing is in the SAMPLE PANEL and PROCEDURE, NOT THE SURVEY APPARATUS - i.e. phone vs. computer." Kelly Music Research oiver the past several months has conducted nationwide testing of a new Digital Callout program for online hook research with comparisons to Telephone Callout and other Online Testing models. "In all, we compiled and reviewed over 5,000 online test cases," reports KMR. "We tested many tactics and approaches to the different facets of music testing including recruiting, screening, scoring options, survey presentation, premiums, respondent verification and data analysis. Some proved worthy, others did not. All were enlightening."   More from Kelly Music Research...

* American Women in Radio and Television changes its name — becomes the Alliance for Women in Media. AWRT's name change to AWM was approved by an overwhelming majority of the group's membership. "As an organization, we've been discussing a name change for almost a decade. The industry has been evolving, our membership has been evolving," says 2010 AWM Board Chair Sylvia Strobel. "It's not just local radio and TV folks. It's a lot of national people, it's new media." One reason for the name change was to reflect who the group is now, not who they were in the past. Another reason cited for the name change is inclusiveness. "It's for women because we are by, for, and about women, but we do not exclude men," says Strobel. "They are key to our organization and constitute 10% of our membership." It's also hoped the name change will attract members from other media who may have been unaware they could join with the emphasis on "radio and television" in the organization's name. The new AWM name and logo will be gradually rolled out over the next year. AWRT was founded in 1951 "to promote diversity and strengthen the influence of women in the vast media community."

* Emmis Interactive signs a long-term agreement with Astral Media Radio. Emmis Interactive, the software and consulting company "that empowers the reinvention of local media," Monday (March 8) announced the agreement. Emmis Interactive will provide its interactive platform and sales consulting services to Astral as part of Astral Radio’s renewed emphasis on building out its Interactive business. “Astral is proud of the work done over the last few years online and with mobile, but our deal with Emmis Interactive marks a new chapter in our commitment to capitalize on the amazing growth of digital media,” says Astral Media Radio and Astral Media Outdoor Group President Jacques Parisien. “Partnering with Emmis Interactive will allow us to take a huge leap forward in terms of our online product, by building more robust and engaging sites for our strong radio brands. This is a critical element of our Interactive strategy; we are very focused on making Interactive a strong and important part of our business.” Philippe Patrice, Chief Digital Strategies Officer for Astral Media Radio, adds, “The Astral Media Radio Interactive team is enthusiastic about the arrival of this great news and all its employees and resources will be dedicated to making this project a great success for all our radio stations” said “In addition to all the technical benefits of this partnership, we believe that working side by side with an industry leader will be both stimulating and exciting.” Astral Media Radio operates 82 radio stations across Canada.

* New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg was honored Monday night (March 8) with the 2010 Golden Mike Award. The award was presented at the Broadcasters Foundation's Golden Mike dinner at in New York. Bloomberg, the founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg News, encouraged broadcasters to help others, with money, time, or talent. Bloomberg launched the Bloomberg LP information service in 1982 and in 1990 started Bloomberg News.

* Premiere Radio Networks is launching "Club Kane" – a new Top 40 weekend show – starting March 28. The new syndicated show will be hosted by "Hot 99.5" WIHT, Washington DC, morning personality Kane, and will air Sunday nights 7pm-midnight. Says Kane, ""This is such a unique opportunity. Together with the team at Premiere, we’ve built an incredibly entertaining and compelling five-hour show that is 100% live and will connect with listeners everywhere." Premiere Programming SVP Jennifer Leimgruber adds, "Kane is an incredibly talented radio personality, and we’re excited to welcome him to the Premiere team. We’re confident that this new, fun, fast-paced and entertaining music program will have listeners partying across the U.S."

* Pandora Media names Steve Cakebread as Chief Financial Officer, effective March 15. Cakebread previously was President & CFO of SalesForce.com, a customer relationship management service provider, where he rose from EVP & CFO. "Pandora is an incredibly exciting company with great momentum," says Cakebread. "The company is led by a powerful team of talented, creative and thoughtful executives who are focused on building a great company. I'm excited to be joining such a promising company at this point in their growth." Pandora CEO Joe Kennedy adds, "Steve is the perfect person to lead the financial side of Pandora as we continue to grow the company into a great and enduring business. We will benefit from his leadership and experience in innumerable ways as we continue to scale the business to meet the tremendous growth we have been seeing."

* Chicago radio veteran Michael Fowler, late the GM of WLS-AM-FM, joins "ESPN Radio 1000" WMVP-AM. Fowler, forced out after two years as President and General Manager of Citadel Broadcasting News-Talk WLS-AM and True Oldies WLS-FM, has landed right back at the same building, reports Chicago media reporter Robert Feder at Vocalo.org. He was named Director of Sales for WMVP-AM, Monday (March 8), succeeding John Cravens, who was promoted to President and GM. "ESPN Radio 1000" occupies studios and offices on the seventh floor of the ABC Building — just under the two floors of WLS-AM-FM.

* WKZZ, Tifton-Albany, GA, flips to Adult Top 40 "92-5 KZZ" featuring "Hit Music Variety." The new format launched late Monday afternoon (March 8) after three days of stunting. The former Country outlet says it will feature 50 minutes of music every hour and "the absolute best pop hits." Core artists include Lady GaGa, Black Eyed Peas, Daughtry and Kings of Leon. "This region of South Georgia has been screaming for a station like this for years and the roar became too much to ignore," says Station Manager Matt Baldridge. "We're so excited to kick this thing into high gear." The station is playing its new music mix unhosted this week. March 15, "92-5 KZZ" will begin simulcasting "Matt and the Morning Mayhem" from sister Top 40 WPNG, Pearson-Douglas-Valdosta, GA. Baldridge is also Station Manger for WPNG. Other hosted dayparts on WKZZ will be unveield "in the coming months." The new Adult Top 40 is online at www.925kzz.com.

* WAPE, Jacksonville, "The Big Ape Morning Mess" host Mark Kaye says no more calls from drivers. The CHR-Top40 host says the morning show will refuse calls from listeners while they're driving their vehicles. This comes at a time when there are increasing warnings about the distractions to drivers of talking on their cellphones, as well as the dangers of texting while driving. "The issue is especially significant to our show," says Kaye. "Because we encourage fans to interact with us on the phone. Talk topics, phone polls, and call-in contests are daily features on our program. We want people to interact with us, but we don’t want then to risk their lives while doing it. That’s why, crazy as it sounds, we are blocking calls from drivers." He says "The Big Ape Morning Mess" will pre-promote exact times that prizes will be given away during contests so listeners will have sufficient time to pull over and find a safe place from which to call. WAPE is also urging listeners to visit its Website and take the official "No Phone Zone Pledge."

* Roex Inc., which used a radio program to sell its products, is ordered to pay $3 million in customer refunds. The FTC has ordered Roex to refund the money to those who who bought the company’s products advertised on an hour-long live call-in show called “The Truth About Nutrition.” The FTC will distribute more than 5,700 refund checks totaling approximately $3 million to consumers who bought infrared saunas and dietary supplements from Roex, based on bogus claims that the products would treat, prevent, or cure a wide range of serious diseases. The amounts of the refund checks were determined by the amount consumers spent on these products, with the average check totaling about $500. Says the FTC in a news release, "These are legitimate checks, and the FTC urges consumers to cash them." The refunds stem from a March 2009 FTC complaint charging Roex, and two individuals with making false or unsubstantiated advertising claims. The marketers claimed that their infrared sauna could treat cancer, and that their supplements could treat, reduce the risk of, or prevent various health conditions including cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, strokes, heart attacks, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases, ulcers, herpes, asthma, and glaucoma. The products were sold on the company’s Website and in print materials, but the marketers’ main advertising vehicle was a nationally broadcast, live, hour-long, call-in radio program titled “The Truth About Nutrition.” The resulting settlement and court order required the defendants to pay $3 million to redress consumers.

* A bold burglary knocks "K-98 Jamz" KJMZ, Lawton, OK, off the air Friday morning (March 5). Workers at Perry Broadcasting showed up to find about $10,000 worth of equipment stolen from their studio. The thief or thieves even swiped a computer that keeps "K-98 Jamz" on the air. "It was very shocking to come in this morning and for everything to be gone," K-98 host Joe Biggs tells KSWO-TV. "We had to scramble to find other computers to find other things to get us back on the radio." They needed music too, because the thieves took the computer with all of their songs on it. "Our programming director had some music playing, but I actually had to hook up my laptop and played some music off of there," says Biggs. "These are things we use for entertainment and to get messages and community service and people listen to the radio for information," says KJMZ General Manager Joy Chapman. This was not the first hit Perry Broadcasting has taken this year. "Our tower, which actually put us on the radio every day, had gone down during the ice storm. So we're basically bouncing back from that," says Chapman. Police are investigating and Perry workers hope someone out there will start talking. "No clue but it's going to pop up we're going to hear something soon I hope," said Biggs. In addition to the computers and monitors that were stolen, some TV's and Webcams were also stolen and so were two transmitter tubes the station had just gotten in to help get the tower back up to full speed.

* Assistant PD and afternoon host Russell P is the new Program Director of "95.5 The Wolf" WSM-FM, Nashville. He's tagged as PD by Cumulus SVP of Programming Jan Jeffries, as Program Director and morning co-host Charley Connolly exits. Midday host Rick Marino moves to mornings to co-host with Music Director Deanna Lee. Jeffries says of Russell P (Penuell), "Russell's contribution to the success of The Wolf Nashville has been remarkable. During my time of programming The Wolf Dallas on a daily basis, Russell was a key 'go to' person. His work ethic, prior to Dallas and Nashville, as PD in Ft. Myers and Shreveport, is second to none." Of the outgoing PD, Jeffries adds, "We thank Charley Connolly for his tenure and wish him the best in his future endeavors." And on the naming of Marino as the new wake-up co-host, Jeffries tells us, "Rick is a world class morning talent. His successful history of mornings in Nashville makes him the perfect choice for mornings at The Wolf Nashville."

* Sports WNRS-AM, Herkimer-Utica, NY, adds Fox Sports Radio and Bloomberg Radio to replace ESPN Radio. WNRS-AM lost the ESPN Radio affiliation to trimulcasting WTLB-AM, WIXT-AM and WRNY-AM. WNRS has rebranded as "1420 AM, The Fox." The station will continue to air Citadel's "Imus in the Morning" — following Imus with Dan Patrick, 9am-noon; and Premiere's Jim Rome, noon-3pm. Bloomberg Radio financial news will air after 3pm through the evenings. Overnights and weekends will feature Fox Sports Radio programming, beginning at 6pm Fridays.

* Report: "News Talk 980" KFWB-AM, Los Angeles, "trading rants for money news, starting March 15." Gary Lycan, who covers Radio for The Orange County Register says that "could be a really smart move." Dave Ramsey's financial advice show will air 9am-noon and Laura Ingraham will be on 10pm-1am. The two programs trade places. "While KFWB's overall talk ratings look dismal, the station says it is gaining in its target demo: women age 25-54," writes Lycan. Los Angeles CBS Radio Market Manager & SVP Ed Krampf says KFWB's weekly listening increased 33% in that demographic. "The economy and personal financial management are the most important subjects on our minds and Dave really hits a nerve when advising people how to cut their debt. He will be a perfect lead-in to Dr. Laura (Schlessinger) because money is so integral to any relationship and each one brings their personal expertise into play," says Krampf.

* "News Talk Sports AM 970" WDAY-AM, Fargo, ND, lays off two employees, restructures early morning shows. Al Aamodt, a 35-year employee of WDAY-AM and an anchor for the station in recent years, and Program Manager and “Morning Buzz” co-host Ben Ziegler, were let go Friday (March 5), reports North Dakota's Inforum. In addition, WDAY-AM will realign some of its programming beginning Monday (March 8), according to General Manager Kevin Weaver. The changes include simulcasting WDAY-TV’s “First News” from 6-7am. Tracy Briggs will then host a daily news show 7-9 am, assisted by Erick Johnson, who anchors the station’s newscasts and the “News at Noon.”

* Public radio remakes itself by entering the iPhone age. When Public Radio Exchange (PRX) developed the free Public Radio Player for the iPhone, the nonprofit hoped for 500,000 downloads. It now has 2.5 million. "I'm very happy with that number," says PRX executive director Jake Shapiro. Nate Anderson at Ars Technica writes, "He should be. The PRX dev team has already cranked out two great iPhone apps, one for public radio in general and one for the popular show This American Life in particular. Both apps have positioned public radio as a major force when it comes to on-demand mobile applications." The Public Radio Player not only streams public radio from across the country to an iPhone; it also provides on-demand access to shows like Marketplace and A Prairie Home Companion, says Shapiro. "This American Life's app costs a few bucks, but it provides streaming access to every episode in the show's history. If you have an iPhone and a data connection, you have essentially unlimited listening options for a grand total of $2.99. And you have them on your own schedule." More from Ars Technica...

* It wasn't risky to go with an all-request format at WNTR-FM, Indianapolis, says Market Manager Jennifer Skjodt. The Entercom station launched the unconventional "My 107.9" at the beginning of the year. "The performance of that frequency really had been so mediocre at best," Skjodt tells the Indianapolis Star. The former format of easy hits from the 1970s and 1980s as "The Track" ranked 13th in the market and was abandoned in November. With the slogan "We play everything YOU want!" WNTR is now an audio roulette where "Ice Ice Baby" by Vanilla Ice, "Supermodel (You Better Work)" by RuPaul and "Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood are rescued from pop culture's scrap heap on a daily basis. Listeners submit their requests by phone, email and social media Websites Facebook and Twitter. But more than shaking up a playlist simply because a previous format failed, Skjodt says "My 107.9" anticipates the new reality of PPM technology for measuring how many people listen. Arbitron 's Portable People Meters will debut in Indianapolis this summer. "Generally, what we've seen so far is that wide-variety stations perform well," says Skjodt. "They attract a very large audience." Entercom executives hope people will choose commercial breaks on other stations to pursue a surprising nugget playing on WNTR.

* An Electronic Program Guide (EPG) service for U.S. radio is a viable option says a Fastroad study. That's the conclusion of the NAB Fastroad Phase 2 Final Report on the viability of an EPG service for radio, just released. BIA/Kelsey, Broadcast Signal Lab and Unique Interactive, the consortium of companies funded by NAB Fastroad to research the viability of an EPG service for U.S. radio broadcasting, has released it's Phase 2 Final Report. Fastroad — an acronym for "Flexible Advanced Services for Television & Radio On All Devices" — is the technology advocacy program of the NAB. The Phase 2 Final Report presents the findings of lab and field trials of a proposed radio-EPG "ecosystem." The research was conducted throughout 2009, culminating with on-air demonstrations in the Boston, Providence and Worcester markets. The report concludes that a radio EPG service is indeed a viable option for U.S. radio, presenting recommendations on how to best and most quickly achieve it. It includes methods for transmitting EPG data over HD Radio broadcasts and via Internet delivery, including to mobile devices. Says BIA/Kelsey Chief Strategy Officer Rick Ducey, "We are excited to present this report to the industry and its critical recommendations for the advancement of U.S. radio broadcasting. This Phase 2 work was a collaborative effort of many broadcasters, developers and manufacturers, including iBiquity, and our profound thanks go to all involved." Broadcast Signal Lab Managing Partner David Maxson explains, "The Phase 2 trials were a fantastic learning experience. The project team has tried to capture as much relevant output from that process in the findings presented in our report. We hope it will be useful to its readers, and stimulate interest in next steps toward development of radio EPG service." And Unique Interactive Development Team Leader Adrian Gross adds, "The U.S. radio environment presents some unique and exciting challenges to establishing an EPG ecosystem, and our work in Phase 2 of this project made it clear that such service is both possible and extremely valuable to audiences, broadcasters and manufacturers alike." The Phase 2 Final Report is available here from www.nabfastroad.org.

* The KDNA, Yakima, WA, Board of Directors will work to end the year-long controversy it has faced. A day after KDNA's beleaguered director departed, the station's board said it would work to end the controversy that has plagued the public Spanish-language station for more than a year. Now that Maria Fernandez is gone, that is the goal at the station that's faced protests and found employees walking out to force the station off the air. After Fernandez was fired, more than 65 people filed into a news conference to learn what direction the board of directors planned to take the station, reports Yakima's Herald-Republic. "Reading from a prepared statement, board president Irma Jiminez-DePrieto all but promised to improve relations with the community, but wouldn't promise 11 fired workers they'd get their jobs back," writes the newspaper's Philip Ferolito. "I want to assure the community and our listeners that programs will continue," said Jiminez-DePrieto. She introduced interim director Mirta Laura Contreras and promised that the station would work to strengthen its relationship with the community and work efficiently, and that the community center's "mission of empowerment and service to the community remains a compass that will lead the organization into the future." Some in the crowd not only asked that those who were fired during the past year be rehired, but that a restraining order barring several people involved in a labor dispute with the station be lifted, according to the Herald-Republic. They even accused the board of working to give control of the station, known as the voice of the farm worker, to Heritage University in Toppenish. Contreras said she'd let those issues make their way through the legal process. She has taken a leave of absence as lead attorney of Columbia Legal Services in Yakima to be interim director of the station for at least the next three months. "I am not going to promise you anything," she told the crowd. "All I can tell you is that I will do my best to listen to you and bring Radio KDNA into a new chapter."

As we previously reported, the governing board of KDNA on Thursday (March 4) dismissed Fernandez. “It’s just a culmination of things that said we probably need to be in a different place, going in a different direction,” said Len Black, a member of the Northwest Communities Education Center governing board, at the time. “And it’s a good opportunity for Maria to begin pursuing other opportunities.” Fernandez took over the direction of the nation’s first Spanish-language public broadcast station in the summer of 2008, replacing its longtime director, Ricardo Garcia. Almost immediately, station staff complained about her management style and many were fired or quit. The problems spilled onto the airwaves, and throughout much of 2009, employees, former employees, volunteers and listeners staged protests and demanded Fernandez’s resignation.

* Vikki returns March 8 – without Steve – at AC "B98.5" WSB-FM, Atlanta — at least for now. We previously reported that Steve McCoy was definitely out, and that Vikki Locke was offered the chance to go solo. At the time, the "Steve & Vikki" show was pulled from the "B98.5" schedule. Also, we reported that Locke was given until March 8 to decide if she would go solo. Now it's reported by Access Atlanta's Steve Ho that "Vikki Locke is coming back Monday on B98.5 minus Steve McCoy." This will be the first time in more than two decades that the radio duo is being split up. Locke's current contract is up June 30. As of Friday morning (March 5), she was still negotiating the final details of a contract extension beyond that date. Reports Ho, "Both she and McCoy, who joined B98.5 in July 2008 after a nearly 18-year run at Star 94, had contracts lasting two years with an option for a third year. B98.5 decided not to take McCoy’s option. But the station did offer to keep Locke without McCoy. The 'trigger' deadline was coming up, which is why B98.5 took them off the air last week." Cox Radio Market Manager Tony Kidd tells Ho that the agreement with Locke is not finalized, and some unspecified legal issues "need to squared away." Reportedly, "B98.5" offered her a one-year extension at an unspecified reduced salary, according to an unnamed source. Ho notes she was making in the mid-six-figure range.

* Mandy Connell joins WHAS-AM, Louisville, KY, as the new 9am-noon talk show host. A 14 year radio veteran, Connell has entertained and informed audiences in several Florida cities, including Gainesville and Orlando. For the last five years, she has served Southwest Florida listeners as morning show host on 1240/1270 WINK/WNOG and "92.5 Fox News Radio" in Ft. Myers/Naples. "84 WHAS" Operations Manager Kelly Carls tells WHAS-TV, “We reviewed over 130 applications, and talked to many talented people. Mandy really stood out for her energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to giving listeners an interesting, informative, and engaging radio program. We believe she will really connect with the 84WHAS audience.” Clear Channel Louisville Market President Bill Gentry adds, “Mandy is personable, friendly, and well-read. We’re confident she will uphold the tradition of exceptional performance our listeners have come to expect.” Commenting on her new appointment, Connell says, “To say that I am excited is a massive understatement. Not only do I get to join a heritage radio station like WHAS, I get to live in Louisville, which has more amazing restaurants than I dreamed possible. I couldn’t ask for a better new home! I can’t wait to dig in, metaphorically and literally.” Connell will join the WHAS program line-up during the week of March 29. Connell replaces the late Francene Cucinello, who died at the age of 43 in mid-January after suffering a heart attack and then an aneurysm after a short stay in the hospital. [See TPMedia NewsPage report, Jan. 16, 2010]

* Adriene Hill resigns from noncommercial Chicago Public Radio WBEZ to join American Public Media. Hill, who has covered business and economy for Chicago Public Radio, will be involved in a multi-platform project on sustainability, working with “Marketplace” and the American RadioWorks documentary unit. She joined Chicago Public Radio in July 2003 as an intern, later becoming a producer and associate editor for "Eight Forty-Eight," CPR's weekday morning newsmagazine.

* Los Angeles County authorities arrest a man on suspicion of stalking "Loveline" host Dr. Drew Pinsky. Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies arrested Charles Pearson after he used text messages to harass Pinsky and his family. Pearson allegedly threatened to kill Dr. Drew's family and had begun contacting Pearson's co-workers at KROQ. Pearson reportedly believed KROQ implanted a microchip in his body in order to speak with him. "He literally was making explicit plans to kill my children." says Dr. Drew. "And then making threats to my wife that she would have to eat them. Very bizarre. I feel like we're safe now." Pinsky tells KNBC-TV, "I hope this guy gets treatment because clearly he needs it. He's probably suffered terribly and we got a dose of it directed our way." Pasadena Police Lt. Tracey Ibarra says, "He was stalking the family and one of the avenues he used was the electronic media." Pearson is being held in the Pasadena city jail in lieu of $150,000 bail.

Meanwhile, TMZ is reporting that Pinsky is not the only one targeted by his alleged stalker. "We're told the personalities at the radio station where Dr. Drew works were also allegedly harassed ... this according to sources who spoke with TMZ," says the Website. "We're told Charles Pearson — who was arrested yesterday in L.A. and booked on felony stalking — has been sending emails to the flagship stars of KROQ, Kevin and Bean. We're told Pearson felt KROQ — which runs Dr. Drew's show "Loveline" — implanted a chip in his body and used the chip to speak with him." KROQ employees learned of the arrest when TMZ broke the story, says the report.

* FCC Commissioner Michael Copps borrows a line from Newton Minnow, calls modern media "a vast wasteland." Copps, speaking at the FCC's Future of Media Workshop, Thursday (March 4), said that today's media resembles the "vast wasteland that Newton Minow had predicted as early as 1961." Minnow, then FCC Chairman, stunned the NAB as he delivered the line at the broadcasters' 1961 convention. Copps' use of the term now may not have had the same effect, but it did help generate news coverage as he pointed at consolidation of the broadcast industries. Copps says the Telecom Act set in motion a "media free-fall" that saw stations gobbled up en masse. According to the second-term Commissioner, when he took office, he found "that for most of the past 30 years, we had really dropped the ball. And I use 'we' to include both the private and public sectors." Copps says that the 30 years of "horrendous decisions" by regulators was responsible for, what he called, the "outright elimination of just about every public interest obligation or public interest guideline we had." Copps noted that while "some say there are more outlets now than ever, "we ended up with a 'wasted vastland'" in terms of "the real localism and diversity that more outlets should have produced." Copps did say "there's some good news" — the FCC's ability "to bring the public interest back." Said Copps, "Change is in the air."

* An Internet radio host, on trial in federal court, testifies his violent words were "All talk, no action." Federal prosecutors Thursday (March 4) sought to portray Internet radio talk host Hal Turner, the incendiary radio talk show host, as a white supremacist whose racist and at times violent rhetoric predated his recruitment as a paid government informant and continued after the FBI dropped him for what it called “serious control problems.” Turner testified for a second straight day during his trial in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn on charges of threatening three federal judges from Chicago. The charges stem from a blog posting on his Website that featured their photos and declared that they were “worthy of death.” An earlier trial ended in a hung jury. During a lengthy and at times heated cross-examination, reports The New York Times, the government cited email messages, postings and radio comments in which Turner made thinly veiled threats, boasted of his influence with his listeners and said he would be “honored” to take credit for the murder of the family of a federal judge. After Turner posted the address of a state judge in New Jersey, where Turner himself lives, he wrote the judge a letter describing his followers, which he said included members of the Ku Klux Klan, Aryan Nations and Nazis. “Good luck in life, however long that lasts now that people know where to find you,” he wrote. The image presented of Turner, writes the Times, stood in sharp contrast to the one given a day before, when under the questioning of his own defense lawyer he said that his racist rhetoric was a tool to help the FBI flush out domestic terrorists from within the white supremacist movement. He said he eventually ended his relationship with the FBI. Thursday, Turner maintained that his words were simply “part of my shtick,” intended to maintain his image as a “bad boy of radio,” while adding that even if he believed what he said, the message was perfectly legal and no one had ever committed a crime as a result of his urgings. “All talk, no action,” he said.

* After a year of internal conflict and public protests, the Executive Director of KDNA, Yakima, WA, is fired. The "Radio Yakima" governing board Thursday (March 4) dismissed Maria Fernandez, the controversial figure at the helm of the Yakima Valley’s Spanish-language public broadcaster. The Yakima Herald reports her replacement is Laura Contreras, an immigration lawyer with Columbia Legal Service in Yakima. She begins Friday (March 5), says Len Black, a member of the Northwest Communities Education Center governing board. “It’s just a culmination of things that said we probably need to be in a different place, going in a different direction,” Black said Thursday evening. “And it’s a good opportunity for Maria to begin pursuing other opportunities.” Fernandez took over the direction of the nation’s first Spanish-language public broadcast station in the summer of 2008, replacing its longtime director, Ricardo Garcia. Almost immediately, station staff complained about her management style and many were fired or quit. The problems spilled onto the airwaves, and throughout much of 2009, employees, former employees, volunteers and listeners staged protests and demanded Fernandez’s resignation.

* CBS Radio News VP Harvey Nagler receives the RTDNF First Amendment Service Award. Nagler is the first award winner from radio in the 20 years the First Amendment Awards have been handed out. Reporting on the Radio Television Digital News Foundation 2010 First Amendment Awards Dinner, RTDNA tells us — by way of a report from WBAL's Scott Wykoff, "On a night when some of the biggest movers and shakers in broadcast journalism came together to honor their own, it was the First Amendment that was the star of the night. In Washington, DC on Thursday night [March 4], the Radio Television Digital News Foundation (RTDNF) honored Brian Williams, anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News, RTDNA President Emeritus Barbara Cochran, National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation President Marcellus Alexander and the NABEF, Harvey Nagler, vice president of CBS Radio News and David Westin, president of ABC News at the First Amendment Awards Dinner. It was the 20th anniversary of the awards dinner."

* Katz Media Group EVP Bonnie Press is named to the AWRT Board of Directors. Press, a 30-year industry veteran, will serve on the 2010 National Board of Directors for American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT). "I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board to lead AWRT into an exciting new chapter in its history as we serve our members and the industry," says Press. "As a long-time participant in AWRT, I know firsthand the influence and significance of this organization, and I look forward to continuing to support it in this new capacity." Press has been with Katz since 1976. In 1991, she was promoted to SVP & General Manager of Katz Radio Group. She helped launch Katz Dimensions in 1995, which was expanded in 2004 and renamed Katz Advantage. In 2009, Press was named to her current corporate EVP position, overseeing special projects and initiatives. "Bonnie's appointment to AWRT's National Board of Directors highlights her commitment to our industry," says Katz Media Group President & CEO Stu Olds. "I'm confident that the expertise and knowledge she will bring to her role will only enhance the board. I have great respect and admiration for AWRT's advocacy and I'm pleased to see Bonnie, and many of our employees, actively involved with the organization."

* KSSJ-FM, Sacramento, flips from "Smooth Jazz 94.7" to Alternative "Radio 94.7." Entercom says the Smooth Jazz format had become "increasingly difficult" to sell, and the audience size could no longer sustain the station. "Radio 94.7" will feature music from artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dave Matthews Band, Coldplay, Green Day, U2, Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, Sublime, Nirvana, Linkin Park, Weezer and Stone Temple Pilots along with music from new bands like Muse, The Killers, Train, Kings of Leon and others. A statement on KSSJ's Website says: "As we all know, the one thing we can count on in life is change. It’s in that spirit that I must tell you that the format on 94.7 KSSJ is going to change Wednesday, March 3rd at 12:00 pm. Playing Smooth Jazz favorites is one side of who we are – it’s the side you hear. The other side is the reality that operating a radio station is a business – that’s the side we see. In the past few years, the business side of KSSJ has become increasingly difficult. There are many reasons for it, but the unfortunate fact is that the audience for the station can no longer sustain the business of the station. In that way, we’re no different from a retail business that doesn’t have enough customers to keep the doors open." The "Smooth Jazz Concert Series" will continue through Husky Productions.

* Pubcaster "Pioneer 90.1" KSRQ, Thief River Falls, MN, receives a grant totaling $238,500 through June 2011. The Northland Community and Technical College radio station receives the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Programming grant to produce programming based on local musicians, filmmakers, authors, and historians, says a news release. Part of the grant will be used to present free concerts featuring Minnesota musicians. The shows will be recorded, mixed with interviews with the performers and made available to other independent public radio stations in the state, reports the Grand Forks Herald. The first concert in the performance series will feature Thief River Falls-based blues performers Little Bobby and the Storm at 7pm. Saturday at the Northland College theater in Thief River Falls. Also being developed is a new program called “ArtsFocus,” which will feature interviews and radio documentaries about area arts and cultural topics. The first show will feature an interview with the director of the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site in Cooperstown, ND. The grant also allows "Pioneer 90.1" to make its programming available on platforms beyond the station’s coverage area. Pioneer 90.1 and the other 11 stations in the Association of Minnesota Public and Educational Radio Stations network are using the Public Radio Exchange Website to share and archive original programming. The stations are also making programming available on their Websites.

* San Diego radio stations honor Chelsea King, the teen who was murdered while running in a park last week. A "Moment Of Silence" was organized by the San Diego Broadcasters Association, and was held Thursday (March 4) at noon. More than two dozen stations in the market offered one minute of silence in memory of the slain teen. Some stations followed the silence with some of King's favorite songs. Convicted sex offender John Albert Gardner is charged with the murder. Gardner, who is suspected in at least one other attempted rape and assault case, has pleaded not guilty in the King murder case.

* Haitian radio host Carel Pedre is honored for "tweeting" on his country's earthquake. Pedre received a special "humanitarian" award at the second annual "Shorty Awards" in New York this week. "I dedicate this to my country Haiti," said Carel Pedre after receiving the award at the event which recognize excellence on Twitter. He used Twitter to inform the world about the earthquake which ravaged his country, reports AFP. Pedre was among the users of the micro-blogging service honored at the ceremony. "May we continue to use Twitter to save lives and change the world," said Pedre, who "tweets" as @carelpedre. The Shorty Awards, which do not have any official link to Twitter, were produced by Sawhorse Media and sponsored by the Knight Foundation and several corporations.

* Robert Feder: "Why radio still seduces the man behind ‘The Drive’." "The Drive" is a Classic Hits format based at "The Drive 97.1" WDRV-FM, Chicago — one which spans an entirely different range of music than the usual "oldies" station that uses the descriptive "Classic Hits." In fact, WDRV doesn't even use the descriptive (as does "93.3 The Drive," WPBG, Peoria, IL). WDRV instead promotes, "The Soundtrack of Our Lives." Some might say the format is more of a Classic Rock mix. Feder, writing on the man who invented "the most successful new radio format of the last 10 years — Greg Solk," offers his "Robservation" on Solk, promoted this week to SVP of Programming for Bonneville International. "In addition to the blue chip trio of WDRV-FM (97.1), WTMX-FM (101.9) and WILV-FM (100.3)," in Chicago, "he oversees programming in a variety of formats nationwide for the Salt Lake City-based company." Feder writes that in announcing the promotion, Bonneville President & CEO Bruce Reese cited Solk’s “hard, smart work, which has earned the respect and appreciation of all his colleagues.” Solk began his career as a producer for Steve Dahl’s morning show when he was a 15-year wunderkind at Niles North High School in Skokie. And Feder tells readers what makes the dedicated radio veteran still believe in the business. Says Solk, “There’s been a lot said about the demise of the radio business ... blah, blah, blah. I have been seduced by this business since I was 15 years old. I still am today. I grew up with radio in the best time in radio’s history — the magical time of the Top 40 radio wars between WLS and WCFL, the movement of ‘album rock’ to the FM band — and I’ve listened to and worked side by side with the biggest air personalities the city’s ever seen. I’ve been fortunate to hang on long enough to see all the ebbs and flows of this industry, and I will not let all the naysayers distract or disrupt my passion for the business. Formats will come and go, so will big-name personalities. That’s the reality of the biz. But radio still remains vibrant and an important, vital part of millions of Chicagoans’ lives every day. I intend to do my best to keep the magic of radio alive and well — and I thank Bonneville for giving me that opportunity.”

* Pandora aims at the auto dashboard with new hire George Lynch as VP of Automotive Business Development. The streaming Internet radio provider, which reportedly plans to seek more ad business from local advertisers this year, now aims at the in-car market as it taps Sirius XM Radio exec Lynch to help it get there. "We are thrilled that George is bringing to Pandora his 20 years of experience pioneering new radio technology into vehicles, where 50% of all radio listening occurs," says PandoraSVP Jessica Steel. "Delivering Pandora's personalized Internet radio to our 48 million listeners in their vehicles is a key focus of our company this year and we think we have got the best person on board to help Pandora cement our presence in the automotive arena." Lynch, who previously was VP of Automotive Partnerships at Sirius XM Radio, says, "I have been fortunate in my career to have the opportunity to evangelize new radio technologies in the automotive industry and forge the partnerships with automakers that make them a reality for consumers. Pandora is radio at its most innovative: wholly personalized and ever-present. I'm excited to introduce Pandora into connected vehicles." Pandora recently announced a business partnership with Ford that will enable listeners to access their personalized Pandora radio stations through voice command over Ford Sync. Alpine and Pioneer have also announced support for Pandora's recently launched "PandoraLink" technology in aftermarket products that those companies are distributing later this year.

* RadioTime says MINI has integrated the RadioTime Web radio service into its MINI Connected option. That offers a unique USB interface for optimum integration of the Apple iPhone in a car’s audio and infotainment system. The MINI Connected option makes MINI the first car manufacturer in the world to offer this function in a regular production car. The MINI Connected option features a Web radio function based on the RadioTime directory that leverages the iPhone’s Internet connection to tune to thousands of AM/FM and Internet-only radio stations worldwide. Sitting in a MINI networked through MINI Connected, the driver can tune to Web radio stations airing anywhere in the world, regardless of his current location, depending on Internet connection and network coverage. The driver chooses his station the usual way through the car’s audio and infotainment system, making the controls convenient and safe while driving. “Drivers love radio because it’s free and requires no registration or setup, but accessing Internet radio used to require patching a smartphone into a car’s existing sound system, and fiddling with a smartphone’s controls,” says RadioTime CEO Bill Moore. “Now, instead of looking at your smartphone screen, you can use the dash display and MINI Joystick to tune to web radio. Radio has always been an integral part of our cars, and we’re opening up the world of music, news, talk, sports and entertainment that only web radio can offer.” Exclusive to MINI, this technology sets the foundation for a deep integration of smartphone functions. MINI Connected ensures a network with the world of entertainment, communication and online functions. RadioTime provides an easy means of finding local, national or global radio programming airing on stations in 140 countries and broadcasting in 55 different languages.

* Mick Lee is moving to Clear Channel's CHR-Top40 "Z104.3" WZFT, Baltimore, as Program Director, March 22. He will also host an on-air shift as he returns to the East Coast from his current duties as Assistant PD and afternoon host at Clear Channel's CHR-Top40 "Z100" KKRZ, Portland. "Mick is exactly what we need to take Z to the next level," says Clear Channel Baltimore & DC Operations Manager Thea Mitchum. "His strategic incites, passion and PPM experience set him apart from the other incredible candidates vying to take the lead at Z104.3. He has true vision and a great understanding of not just the art of programming but the science as well. I'm excited to welcome Mick to the stellar programming team we have in Baltimore and DC." Lee, whose prior emplyment includes WIHT-FM, Washington DC, and WFLY-FM, Albany, NY, tells us, "I am beyond thrilled to be joining the Clear Channel team in Baltimore & DC. I can't thank Thea Mitchem and Hartley Adkins enough for this incredible opportunity! Baltimore has been patiently waiting years for a CHR/Mainstream and I am honored to be given the chance to be a part of its creation", added Lee.

* Emmis Radio Programming President Rick Cummings signs a one-year contract extension. According to an SEC filing, Cummings' base salary is $446,500. He also is elegible for incentive-based bonuses. Cummings assumed his current position in December 2008, after serving as Radio Division President since 2002. He's been with Emmis since 1981, when he was hired as Program Director of AC WENS-FM, Indianapolis. He was promoted to National Program Director in 1984, and was named Programming EVP in 1987.

* Cumulus Melbourne Market Manager Reid Reker resigns. His resignation is effective at the end of March, or sooner if a replacement is named. "John Dickey and Gary Pizzati have been terrific and have graciously left the door open for conversation, should I want to return," says Reker, who previously was National Marketing Manager for SparkNet, the owner and U.S. licensor of the Jack FM format. He previously spent three and a half years as SVP & Market Manager for CBS Radio San Antonio. Reker plans to spend time with his family in New Orleans and Austin. After that, he says, he will be “investigating new opportunities.”

* Gigi South is named Market Manager of Clear Channel's four-station Tuscaloosa, AL, cluster. Most recently, she was Market Manager for Citadel Birmingham. "We are very excited to have Gigi assume the leadership of our Tuscaloosa stations," says SVP Dave Crowl. "Nobody knows the dynamics of the Tuscaloosa market better than Gigi. She has previously achieved great success in the market and we are confident she will hit her new ground running with great acceleration." South adds, "I'm thrilled to be back in the vibrant market of Tuscaloosa, working with such a talented staff and to have at hand the resources Clear Channel provides to create great radio. WTXT, WZBQ, WRTR and WACT are strong, proven brands in the Tuscaloosa market. It will be great fun to be part of the next era in a long history of the stations' successes."

* Tony Senes joins the Entercom Digital team as Digital Web Support and Developer. Senes has been with Entercom's digital design and development team on a parttime basis, supporting the company's internal Music 2.0 Website conversion and working directly with markets on their tech support issues. "I'm happy to announce that Tony will be joining Entercom effective immediately on a fulltime basis. Tony is based on the East Coast and will be able to provide support more quickly for our East Coast Websites from his base in Connecticut. In addition, his knowledge of Intertech's Vortal platform is a plus for our stations," says VP of Technical Operations Ken Beck.

* The University of Georgia's budget plans include silencing its WUGA-FM. The University of Georgia would lay off 1,418 people, including 543 non-contract faculty slots, eliminating not just jobs but entire departments under a draconian budget-cutting plan submitted to state legislators, reports the Athens Banner-Herald. The proposed cuts would also include closure of the universityl’s public radio station, News & Classical WUGA-FM. UGA financial planners also propose to reduce the size of the student body by 1,500 next fall, cutting the number of freshmen admitted next fall by 500 and incoming transfer students by 1,000. Slated for closing are 4-H programs, half the Cooperative Extension offices in the state, and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, as well as WUGA-FM). One in four custodial workers would lose their jobs, as would dozens of administrators.

* Interviewer extraordinaire Barbara Walters gets interviewed Thursday (March 4) — by Howard Stern. The two do their satellite radio shows down the hall from each other at Sirius XM’s New York headquarters. While Walters has been an "on the phone" guest on Stern's show, this is the first time in the studio with the shock jock. Walters is promoting her 30th and final Oscar Night special this weekend on ABC-TV. She arrives at Stern's studio fresh from doing a Top 10 list on why this will be her final Oscar Night special on Wednesday night's David Letterman TV show. The #2 reason? Jay Leno pushed her out!

* Philadelphia-based radio talk host Michael Smerconish quits the Republican Party to become an independent. “For me, the party is over,” Smerconish says. "It took only the single tap of a computer key, and just like that I’d exited the Republican Party after 30 years of active membership. The context might sound impulsive, but I’d been thinking of becoming an independent for a long time. I just hadn’t expected that a trip to renew my driver’s license would mark the end." Smerconish, based at "The Big Talker" WPHT-AM, Philadelphia, now also a syndicated talker, says, "Years ago, I grew tired of having my television or radio introduction accompanied by a label, with some implied expectation that what would then come from my mouth were the party talking points." Did he just wear the Republican label, or was he a real GOP loyalist at one time? Smerconish says that 26 years ago he was "the youngest elected member of the state delegation to the Republican National Convention, but not today. I’m not sure if I left the Republican Party or the party left me. All I know is that I no longer feel comfortable."

* Are local radio stars gone forever? Writing from San Diego for the North County Times, Randy Dotinga bemoans the loss of major personalities from the San Diego airwaves. "Jeff and Jer? Off the air. Dave, Shelly and Chainsaw? Down for the count. And most of their sidekicks are out of jobs too. These ultra-popular morning hosts — at Star 94.1 and KGB, respectively — used to rule the radio roost in the a.m. Both teams had been around for decades, meaning that kids who grew up with them are now having children of their own." Dotinga says readers have asked him two main questions about why the teams got bounced off the air: When will they be back on the radio? And what are these folks doing now? He writes that he will get to the second question in a future column. "But let me tackle the first one today and examine what it would take for J&J and DS&C to find their way back into your ears each morning." Dotinga offers some options: "Persuade another station in town to hire them," is one. "Go online," is another. And the one we like the best: "Buy a station and put their own show on the air." Dotinga ultimately arrives at the conclusion that they, and listeners, "may be out of luck." The full article has a lot more, and makes an interesting read. Just click here to read it.

* Rep. John Dingell says he opposes the Performance Rights Act which would levy new royalties for music airplay. His audience was all ears; he was addressing broadcasters. In a speech at the NAB State Leadership Dinner in Washington DC, the House Energy and Commerce Committee Charman Emeritus said, "Recording artists and record labels have profited handsomely for years from the free publicity they get from broadcasters, a mutually beneficial relationship that a performance tax will destroy. I am concerned that such a tax would be of less benefit to recording artists than to record labels, many of which are based abroad... It seems ridiculous to me to impose a new punitive fee on broadcasters during this time of recession, especially as broadcasters have seen their revenues decrease by up to 40% over the past several years." He spoke just hours after fellow Rep. John Conyers Jr. said performers have the right to compensation. Dingell (D-MI) served as Commerce chairman, or ranking Democrat, for nearly 30 years before becoming Chairman Emeritus in 2007.

* Pro-PRA musicFIRST Coalition holds a news conference to launch its 2010 campaign; the NAB fires back. The musicFIRST Coalition held the media session promoting the Performance Rights Act in Washington DC, as hundreds of broadcasters gathered for the NAB State Leadership Conference. The RIAA-backed group announced a long list of partner organizations, including Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, National Congress of Black Women, National Puerto Rican Coalition, National Coalition of Latino Clergy and Christian Leaders, National Latino Farmers and Ranchers Trade Association, Labor Heritage Foundation, A. Philip Randolph Institute, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Afro-Latino Development Alliance, League of Rural Voters, National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education. Also at the media event was NAACP Washington Bureau Director Hilary Shelton. "Being paid fairly for your labor is one of he most basic civil rights, which is why we are pleased to support musicians everywhere to ensure that they are duly and fairly compensated when their music is enjoyed by radio listeners," Shelton said at the news conference. House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers (D-MI) compared the lack of airplay royalties for recording artists to involuntary servitude. "They work and they don't get paid," Conyers said after the formal news conference. "That's involuntary servitude. They don't even get any choice of whether they want to work or not — they just take their work product."

Responding to the news conference, NAB EVP Dennis Wharton said, "The unfortunate truth is that this legislation [the PRA] benefits foreign-owned record labels to the detriment of 'struggling artists.' With diminished revenues, radio stations will take less risk in exposing 'struggling artists.' This is a job-killing bill that threatens a musician's number one promotional vehicle while transferring hundreds of millions of dollars into the coffers of companies based in Tokyo, Paris, and London." The Performance Rights Act, which would require over-the-air radio stations to pay new royalties for the airing of recorded music, has passed in both the House and Senate Judiciary Committees, but votes by the full House and Senate have yet to be scheduled. The Local Radio Freedom Act, a non-binding resolution opposing any new performance royalties or fees, now has gained the support of 256 House representatives and 27 senators.

* The PPM Coalition says it wants more specifics on Arbitron's new PPM Initiatives. The Coalition, in a brief statement on Arbitron's proposals to the House Committee on Oversight and Government reform, says it wants to meet with Arbitron to see additional details, explanations, and benchmarks." A summary of Arbitron's proposal to the Oversight Committee was included in the company's annual report filed with the SEC March 1. The PPM Coalition says it received a copy of the proposal when it went to the House committee February 12, but it "has a number of questions regarding the proposal." The ad hoc group, which renewed its call for an FCC inquiry last month, says in its statement, "Arbitron and the Coalition have made plans to meet and discuss these issues in depth. Until the parties have had these discussions, the Coalition will have no further comment on Arbitron's proposal." The PPM Coalition includes Spanish Broadcasting System, Entravision, Univision Radio, ICBC Broadcast Holdings,and others. Last month the group reacted to Arbitron obtaining a temporary restraining order to require SBS to resume encoding for PPM with a new call for an FCC probe of the Portable People Meter technology.

Arbitron is proposing a "multimodal recruitment approach" entailing in-person recruiting of minorities for PPM, including in-person recruiting of Blacks and Hispanics, starting in July. Under the new plan Arbitron says, "We will deploy in-person recruiting in the high-density Black and Hispanic areas in the top-25 PPM Markets by year-end 2010 with full address-based sampling to be completed in all PPM Markets by 2011. In addition, we proposed to undertake several initiatives focused on minority broadcasters, including: launching the previously disclosed engagement metric in the first quarter of 2010; forming a minority leadership council in Spring 2010 to bring the leadership of broadcasters and agency communities together; and, expanding our current initiatives directed toward advertiser outreach for minority radio." Arbitron says, however, that even with the aggressive effort to generate an appropriate Black and Hispanic sample and repsonse rate. "While we have designed this proposal to accomplish the goals described above, we can provide no assurance that we will be successful."

* "Rush Radio" debuts in Boston next week with the launch advanced from April 1. Clear Channel moves up a previously announced move at WXKS-AM, Boston, which on Monday (March 8) becomes "1200 Rush Radio," with a lineup including Premiere Radio Networks' Rush Limbaugh, as well as Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, and Jason Lewis, and Citadel Media Networks' Mark Levin. Limbaugh moves over to WXKS from Entercom's WRKO-AM. "Boston is the birthplace of the American Revolution," says "Rush Radio" Program Director Bill George. "Rush Radio will lead a new revolution beginning Monday, March 8 at noon. From our months of research and planning to Scott Brown's recent Senate win, it's clear that there is a changing tide in Massachusetts. People are ready to embrace the type of conservative ideals that Rush Radio 1200 and its hosts embrace."

Meanwhile, "Boston's Talk Station" WRKO is replacing Limbaugh with a local show featuring Charley Manning, a Republican consultant who has been a frequent fill-in on WRKO. Manning replaces Limbaugh March 8 on WRKO. The move at the Entercom talker comes as Clear Channel prepares its April 1 launch of a new Talk station at crosstown WXKS-AM. Limbaugh, distributed by Clear Channel subsidiary Premiere Radio Networks, is expected to be a part of the new Talk station's on-air roster. Limbaugh has been heard on WRKO for more than 15 years. Manning tells the Boston Herald's Jessica Heslam that his new WRKO show will "touch on all of the local issues that everybody is talking about, but with a special look at politics. I’m looking forward to really getting into politics, especially because this is going to be such a great year with the three-way race for governor, a big race for attorney general and state treasurer." WRKO Program Director Jason Wolfe confirmed to the Herald that Manning will take over the station’s weekday noon-3pm slot.

* Conservative News-Talk WIND-AM, Chicago, reportedly invites Amy Jacobson to become morning co-host. Chicago media reporter Robert Feder says, "No one is supposed to know it yet, but Jacobson is close to accepting an offer" to, as Feder puts it, "bridge the gender gap." Jacobson is a controversial reporter who landed a radio news job after her Chicago television career blew up in 2007. Reports Feder, Salem's WIND wants her to become the co-host of Big John Howell’s 5-9am morning show. The position has been open since December when Cisco Cotto left for Citadel's News-Talk WLS-AM, where he now hosts 9-11am and, coincidentally, works with Jacobson. Jacobson, 40, who has been employed at WLS since June 2008, was a regular contributor to Roe Conn’s afternoon show from March 2009 until last January, and most recently has been a reporter handling news and traffic duties for Cotto’s midday show.

* WLS-AM, Chicago, afternoon host Roe Conn says he "never doubted Citadel Broadcasting's desire to do a deal." Conn, who just signed a new contract with the Citadel talker after a lengthy negotiation, is asked by the Chicago Sun-Times' Lewis Lazare if he ever doubted "a deal would get done." In the interview, published today (March 2), Conn says, I had met with Citadel CEO Farid Suleman last summer in New York, and he had assured me of their interest. I did, however, question my desire to return. The last year at WLS had been challenging, to say the least. The previous local management seemed split on which direction to take my show. I had lost pretty much all of the editorial control, and decisions were being made that didn't make much sense." Lazare asked Conn: "Are we correct in assuming you are no longer a million-dollar mouth in Chicago radio, and do you think you still deserve such a moniker and the generous remuneration it suggests?" To that, Conn responds, "Never assume. Despite what your sources were saying, money was never an issue. Ultimately, compensation is based on how much revenue a show can generate. I've been very lucky to have attracted a large and loyal following of listeners who like to buy stuff." Read the full interview here.

* Salem Radio Network sets plans for its "America Unplugged" tour. Says Salem News-Talk National Program Director John Butler, "The 'America Unplugged' tour is Salem’s answer to the disconnect felt by so many of us. Our radio stations and our hosts are making that connection to our listeners. We're coming together at events across America to address concerns about the economy, big government, and arrogant politicians who have forgotten what our country stands for." The SRN tour, featuring stops in 12 cities, each hosted by Salem personalities, begins March 10 in Ontario, CA. Among those scheduled to take part are Bill Bennett, Mike Gallagher, Dennis Prager, Michael Medved, and Hugh Hewitt. Sarah Palin and Michael Reagan will also be special guests at selected stops. The tour continues through May 22.

* Cynthia Hudson is named SVP & General Manager of CNN en Espanol and Hispanic Strategy for CNN U.S. Hudson comes to CNN from Spanish Broadcasting System where she's been EVP & Chief Creative Officer. Hudson, who also served as Managing Director of SBS' Mega TV operation, will report to CNN International EVP & Managing Director Tony Maddox. Among Hudson's new duties will be oversight of CNN en Espanol Radio. "Cynthia brings to CNN en Espanol a wealth of creative and strategic experience in both television and new media," says Maddox. "Her appointment underscores CNN's commitment to the Latin American marketplace, where CNN en Espanol consistently ranks as the region's leading pan-regional news network, and positions us to best serve the growing Hispanic market in the U.S." Hudson's resume also includes stints at Univision and Telemundo.

* "W Radio 690" XEWW-AM, Los Angeles, names two as region-based National Spot Sales Account Managers. Hazel Montano and Melissa Fuentes are appointed as National Spot Sales Account Managers for the West Coast and Southeast respectively. Together with recently named National Sales Manager, Michael Norris, they round out the national spot sales force for Grupo Latino de Radio's News-Talk station serving Southern California. "We now have a strong team of sales experts ready to provide the best service for our clients," says VP of Sales Luis Gutierrez. "Since the division was put together earlier this year, Mike, Hazel and Melissa have managed to multiply our national client list." Montano has been with "W Radio 690AM" for over a year. Her experience in national sales and marketing includes Televisa Publishing and Entravision Radio in Los Angeles. Fuentes joined Grupo Latino de Radio in 2007 as part of the national sales team. In her new role, Fuentes will also be responsible for the national spot accounts in the Southeast region for "W Radio 690." Prior to joining Grupo Latino de Radio, Fuentes worked for several years with Fox Sports en español as part of the cable networks' sales team.

* Connoisseur Media closes on its purchase of three Cherry Creek Radio stations in Billings, Montana. Connoisseur Media, which also owns KPLN and KWMY in the market, has been LMAing the three stations — KBLG-AM, KRKX-FM, and KRZN-FM &mash; since shortly after the deal was announced in November. "We are extremely excited to begin working with such heritage radio stations, and Connoisseur Media looks forward to bringing to them the same passion we have for My 105.9 and Planet 106.7," says Connoisseur Media General Manager Cam Maxwell. Cherry Creek leaves the Billings market with the closing. "The Billings market needed a consolidation of ownership to reduce the amount of clusters in the market. We're pleased that our good friends at Connoisseur had the interest and resources to take on our stations and to continue serving the community. We wish them the best of luck in the future", says Cherry Creek Radio President & CEO Joe Schwartz. Kalil & Co. was the exclusive broker for the sale.

* KUPA-AM, Honolulu, will return to the air as "Fox Sports Radio 1370" March 15. Says KUPA General Manager T.J. Malievsky, "It's a pleasure and privilege to bring the best sports programming on the planet to serve Hawaii's sophisticated sports audience. From Jim Rome to Dan Patrick, this is the best assembling of sports personalities on the radio today." In addition to Fox Sports Radio, KUPA will air Premiere's "Jim Rome Show" in wake-up. The Broadcasting Corp. of America station has been silent since November 1, 2007, when it lost its transmitter site. It did return briefly, to maintain its FCC license, in November 2008 from a temporary site.

* One of terrestrial radio’s big spenders &ndash AutoZone – will remain so this year. Mel Phillips writes at his NowAndThen, "AutoZone, the U.S. auto-parts retail industry leader loves the return they’re getting on their radio dollar so much, they’ve decided to stick with radio for the bulk of their ad spending. Bill Rhodes, Chairman, President and CEO of the company said so during AutoZone’s conference call yesterday: 'We will remain heavily focused on radio advertising, as we are one of the largest radio advertisers in the U.S. today.' Rhodes and company just celebrated a fiscal second-quarter earnings rise of 6.4%, beating analysts’ estimates, as AutoZone saw sales and margins increase." Phillips notes that Media Monitors reports AutoZone was radio’s fourth largest advertiser last week, airing 25,768 spots. "As of February 13, AutoZone operates 4,289 stores, up from 4,141 a year earlier. Even if most, if not all of their radio buy is national, that money has to trickle down to lots of AutoZone outlets spread nation-wide, benefiting local radio," says the Wednesday (March 3) entry.

* The FCC's Media Bureau sets the agenda for Thursday's daylong "Future Of Media" workshop. Opening remarks from FCC Commissioner Michael Copps and Steve Waldman, senior adviser to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, will be followed by the first of three panels. The March 4 "Future of Media & Information Needs of Communities: Serving the Public Interest in the Digital Era" panel topics include "Brief History and Overview of the Public Interest in Media Policymaking", "Traditional Media – Local Television and Radio Public Interest Obligations" and, "Policy Implications of Convergence and the Digital Transformation."

* More than 400 broadcasters gather in Washington DC for the NAB State Leadership Conference. The local station representatives were to meet with lawmakers on a variety of issues they say are critical to the future of free and local broadcasting. Among the issues, there is one standout each for radio and television. Radio's top concern among legislative issues is the Performance Rights Act, which would impose new fees for the airing of recorded music on over-the-air radio. TV, meanwhile, is concerned about proposals to reclaim TV spectrum to provide more space for mobile broadband services. This week's events include a series of policy updates at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Capitol Hill, today (March 2) with scheduled appearances from House Communications Subcommittee Chairman Rick Boucher (D-VA), House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Emeritus John Dingell (D-MI) and Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-GA). Local broadcast representatives will meet with their lawmakers in a series of Wednesday meetings.

* Classic Country KWKH-AM, Shreveport, LA, weekend host "Bobby Wayne" is facing child rape charges. Wayne, whose real name is Robert Elliott Bruce, has been arrested on charges he molested and had forced sexual intercourse with a little girl, reports Examiner.com. The actual charges are aggravated rape and contempt of court. Bruce, 42, was indicted by the Caddo Parish grand jury on a charge of aggravated rape. The little girl was eight years old when she was victimized several times, prosecutors said. Bruce, who worked as a weekend host for KWKH using the air name Bobby Wayne, is now no longer with the station says GAP Broadcasting General Manager Charlie Thomas. Bruce was arrested at a residence in Bossier City by a U.S. Marshal's fugitive task force and city police. He was jailed Tuesday (March 2) under $500,000 bond, awaiting arraignment in Caddo District Court. Shreveport police said they began investigating Bruce in 2008 after the child told a family member she had been molested.

* Media management software company Marketron names Arbitron veteran Tom O'Sullivan as VP of Sales. O'Sullivan will oversee worldwide sales of all Marketron products. Most recently he was President of Media Analytics Solutions, a consulting firm specializing in analyzing market trends. Previously, O'Sullivan was Arbitron's VP of Sales. "We are delighted to add someone with Tom's depth of experience to our management team," says Marketron CEO Steve Minisini. "Tom is well-versed in supporting the introduction of new technologies into the marketplace -- and especially familiar with the needs of our key media groups. His 22 years of experience in working with local stations, broadcast groups and streaming media outlets will be particularly helpful as we launch new services that focus on bringing new revenue producing technologies to our clients."

* CRN Digital Talk Radio launches "The Daily Wrap" on Global American Broadcasting. The new program will fill the time slot left open by the retirement of Bruce Williams on GAB1. "Combining three of our compelling one hour programs into a complete programming block, just made sense for us and our affiliates." says VP of Sales and Marketing Jennifer Horn. "The Daily Wrap will give listeners a review of the day in entertainment, issues and the best in lifestyle programming." The three programs merged into the new block are CRN's "PM Show," Barry Farber and "The What's Cookin' Show." Each show is being offered individually or as part of "The Daily Wrap" block of programming.

* Arbitron proposes a "multimodal recruitment approach" entailing in-person recruiting of minorities for PPM. Arbitron's plan would entail in-person recruiting of Blacks and Hispanics, starting in July. Arbitron details the plan in a March 1 SEC filing — a plan the company first submitted to the U.S. House Of Representatives Committee On Oversight and Government Reform February 12. Under the new plan Arbitron says, "We will deploy in-person recruiting in the high-density Black and Hispanic areas in the top-25 PPM Markets by year-end 2010 with full address-based sampling to be completed in all PPM Markets by 2011. In addition, we proposed to undertake several initiatives focused on minority broadcasters, including: launching the previously disclosed engagement metric in the first quarter of 2010; forming a minority leadership council in Spring 2010 to bring the leadership of broadcasters and agency communities together; and, expanding our current initiatives directed toward advertiser outreach for minority radio." Arbitron says, however, that even with the aggressive effort to generate an appropriate Black and Hispanic sample and repsonse rate. "While we have designed this proposal to accomplish the goals described above, we can provide no assurance that we will be successful."

* Arbitron says its PPM sample size metrics hit new highs in January 2010. In its Monday (March 1) announcement, Arbitron claims it met or exceeded substantially all of its sample size metrics across the 33 PPM currency markets in the January 2010 Portable People Meter (PPM) survey. The average Designated Delivery Index (DDI) for Persons aged 6+ was 109 in January and 104 for Persons aged 18-54 across the 33 PPM currency markets. The ratings company says it achieved a new high of a 98 DDI for Black Persons aged 18-34 in January. The January average DDI across the 33 PPM currency markets was 94 for all Persons aged 18-34; 91 among Hispanic persons aged 18-34* and 94 for Other Persons (not Black and not Hispanic) aged 18-34. The average among 33 PPM Currency, 19 markets for black, 22 markets for Hispanic and 14 markets for language preference. Arbitron also claims it reached new highs for average daily in-tab rate in January 2010. The January 2010 average in-tab rate reached a new high of 82 percent for Persons aged 6+ across the 33 PPM currency markets exceeding the Company's benchmark of 75 percent by a significant margin. The average in-tab rate for the Persons aged 18-34 demos reached new high marks and exceeded the 70% company benchmark. The average in-tab rate was 78% for all Persons aged 18-34 in January 2010. For Black Persons aged 18-34 the average in-tab rate was 75% and the average in-tab rate was 80% for Hispanic Persons aged 18-34. The 33 PPM currency market average SPI in January 2010 was 22.3%. That, says Arbitron, is a 25% increase over the 14-market average from the same month last year (19.7%). More from Arbitron...

* Regional Reps Corp. signs an exclusive agreement to represent Zone Radio's three stations in Bangor, ME. Regional Reps Corp., a 53-year-old independent sales rep firm specializing in small and medium market radio outlets, will handle national sales for WKIT-FM, WZON-AM and WZON-FM. Zone Radio's Ken Wood says, "With their experience in bringing national attention to small and medium market Radio stations, we look forward to a successful partnership with Regional Reps." Regional Reps Corp. President Stuart Sharpe adds, "We're proud to have been selected to represent the Zone Radio stations. Locally owned and operated, the stations epitomize everything that makes Radio successful: community service, popular, long time on-air personalities and a clear focus on delivering a strong ROI to advertisers. We are excited about the opportunity to share Zone's great story with regional and national advertisers."

* According to a new study, 92% of Americans use multiple platforms to obtain news and information. The study by the Pew Research Center shows the overwhelming majority of Americans use multiple platforms to get news on a typical day. The platforms include radio, national TV, local TV, the Internet, local newspapers, and national newspapers. And 46% of Americans say they get news from four to six media platforms on a typical day. Only 7% receive their news from a single media platform. "In the digital era, news has become omnipresent. Americans access it in multiple formats on multiple platforms on myriad devices," says Pew Research. "The days of loyalty to a particular news organization on a particular piece of technology in a particular form are gone." The internet is at the center of the story of how people's relationship to news is changing. Six in ten Americans (59%) get news from a combination of online and offline sources on a typical day, and the internet is now the third most popular news platform, behind local television news and national television news. "The process Americans use to get news is based on foraging and opportunism. They seem to access news when the spirit moves them or they have a chance to check up on headlines. At the same time, gathering the news is not entirely an open-ended exploration for consumers, even online where there are limitless possibilities for exploring news. While online, most people say they use between two and five online news sources and 65% say they do not have a single favorite website for news. Some 21% say they routinely rely on just one site for their news and information," according to Pew Research. "In this new multi-platform media environment, people's relationship to news is becoming portable, personalized and participatory. These new metrics stand out: Portable: 33% of cell phone owners now access news on their cell phones; Personalized: 28% of internet users have customized their home page to include news from sources and on topics that particularly interest them; Participatory: 37% of internet users have contributed to the creation of news, commented about it, or disseminated it via postings on social media sites like Facebook or Twitter." More from Pew Research Center...

* Regent Communications files a pre-arranged Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Regent announced Monday (March 1) it has reached an agreement in principal with its lenders for a consensual financial restructuring that will reduce the company's debt and strengthen its balance sheet. The restructuring will result in the elimination of approximately $87 million of Regent's debt. As part of the agreement, says Regent, current senior debt-holders will convert their holdings into a new series of equity in the company, while current public equity shareholders will receive approximately 12.8 cents for each share they own. The parties to the restructuring agreement have signed binding agreements to support the restructuring on proposed terms, subject to the finalization of definitive agreements and related documentation and the satisfaction of certain specified conditions. The Company will effectuate the restructuring through a prearranged reorganization under Chapter 11, filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The restructuring process will have no impact on Regent's day-to-day operations and will not result in any changes to senior leadership. In addition, the Company has a current cash position of approximately $11 million, giving it ample liquidity and sufficient funds to pay all of its vendors and employees.

"We are pleased to move forward with the majority of our senior lenders in taking the necessary steps to substantially strengthen our capital structure," says Regent President & CEO Bill Stakelin. "Throughout the economic downturn, we have continued to implement our strategic plan to build our presence among advertisers and audiences across our local market clusters, while carefully managing our costs. Following our reorganization, we will benefit from a strong financial position and solid cash flow, giving us the flexibility to continue to invest in our operations and execute our strategy. This is a solution that preserves Regent's unique voice in the nation's mid-sized media markets and enhances our ability to fully benefit from the rebound in the nation's advertising industry." After giving effect to the restructuring, certain funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., a premier global alternative and non-traditional investment manager, will own a majority of the new equity in the Company. A copy of the Restructuring Support Agreement has been filed with the SEC. More from Regent...

* The retrial of Internet radio host Hal Turner gets underway in Brooklyn federal court. The retrial got underway Monday (March 1) with a prosecutor saying Turner so “despised” a ruling upholding a handgun ban in Chicago that he threatened the lives of three federal appeals court judges in a bid to silence them. The Bergen Record is covering the court case of the accused Internet radio host from North Bergen, NJ. “Threats of violence are not protected by the First Amendment,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane MacArthur told a jury as Turner’s second trial got under way in federal court in Brooklyn. When Turner posted the alleged threats on his Internet blog in June — saying the judges “deserved to be killed” — he crossed the line of what is protected speech, she said. Turner, 47, is accused of threatening to assault and murder the judges with intent to impede, intimidate and interfere with the jurists while engaged in the performance of their official duties, or with intent to retaliate. His first trial ended in a mistrial in December when the jury deadlocked with a majority favoring acquittal. As the retrial got under way Monday, U.S. District Judge Donald Walter made it clear that this trial would be handled differently. He told Turner’s lawyers they could not make an opening statement to the jury until the government has rested its case. He also forbade them from revealing during cross-examination that Turner had worked as an informant for the FBI, providing intelligence on the white supremacist movement, until the defense puts on its own case. Turner’s lawyers contend he did nothing more than express an opinion. They said he was coached by the FBI to make provocative statements on the air and on his blog as a way of keeping tabs on right-wing hate groups and other extremist organizations that were drawn to his caustic rhetoric. The Chicago-based prosecution team has sought to block any evidence of Turner’s role as an informant, arguing the FBI never authorized Turner to threaten the judges and had ousted him as an informant in 2007.

* Sports “97.5 the Fanatic” WPEN-FM, Philadelphia, teams Philly sports columnist "Gonzo" with Vai Sikahema. The Philadelphia Inquirer columnist, John "Gonzo" Gonzalez, joined Sikahema, "NBC 10" WCAU-TV Sports Director, on the 10am-noon show last week. Now, Greater Media says the two will become a team. Sikahema has been doing a midday show since the FM began simulcasting most, but not all, of the programming of "950 ESPN" WPEN-AM. He originally joined to co-host noon-2pm with Dan Hartman, who is now gone. "Gonzo" has been a regular contributor to Mike Missanelli's afternoon show on WPEN AM & FM. The Inquirer's Michael Klein bills the new on-air alliance as "Gonzo and Sikahema are an on-air pair." WPEN Program Director Matt Nahigian confirms the report with an announcement on "The Fanatic" Website. Daily News columnist Dan Gross also reports the new program, adding an interesting extra bit of info: "While Inquirer editors recently tried to prevent newly rehired columnist Stephen A. Smith from hosting a radio show, (heard from 6 to 9 a.m. nationally on Fox Sports Radio and Sirius/XM), Gonzo has seemingly received their blessing."

* The Miami Dolphins officially announce a new six-year radio deal with Clear Channel for new flagship stations. The deal makes "Big 105.9" WBGG-FM and "940 The Sports Animal" WINZ-AM the Dolphins new home market stations. Terms of the agreement, which runs through the 2015 NFL season, are not disclosed. The play-by-play announcer and color analysts for the game broadcasts will be announced at a later date. The Dolphins opted out of their deal with previous flagship WQAM that would have paid them $3 million in 2010. Under the terms of the new partnership, Dolphins pre-season, regular season and playoff games will air on Big 105.9 and WINZ-AM. The stations will also broadcast a two-hour pre-game and two-hour post-game show. The agreement also calls for additional programming elements including a year-round Dolphins radio show which will broadcast on WINZ. "We couldn't be more excited that Big 105.9 and WINZ radio will broadcast our games," says Dolphins CEO Mike Dee. "This is a big win for Dolphins fans. Clear Channel's strength of signal, network of stations and multimedia platform, combined with the additional Dolphins programming content will ensure that more fans will be able to listen to our games and follow our activities on and off the field." Says Clear Channel Miami President & Market Manager Brian Olson, "We are proud to be associated with such a beloved team and prestigious community institution. The organization's strategic vision aligns perfectly with the assets we have at Clear Channel South Florida. We look forward to producing the highest quality programming possible and to a long and mutually beneficial partnership."

* Westwood One and Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Radio sign an agreement for distribution of Harpo Radio programs. The radio shows include "The Gayle King Show" and King's new "Evening" show, as well as a daily feature from Dr. Mehmet Oz. Oprah's personal friend, King, currently airs on Sirius XM's Oprah channel. The new "Gayle King Evening" will be a five hour weeknight entertainment program featuring music, guests and topical conversation. Westwood One will also carry a three hour weekend show with content from a variety of Harpo Radio programs under the new multi-year agreement. "Today marks an exciting new day for Harpo Radio as we partner with Westwood One to bring our award-winning content to their listeners," says Harpo Productions President Erik Logan. "We are delighted to be joining forces with one of the nation’s largest and most esteemed radio providers and look forward to a longstanding relationship." Westwood One Network Radio President Gary Schonfeld tells us, "We are thrilled to be able to bring Harpo Radio's world-class programming to a wider audience. "Gayle King and Dr. Oz both connect with their audiences in a personal, powerful way that is perfect for radio today, and our combination of talk shows, music programming, and features on weekdays, evenings and weekends, offers a wealth of talent to our affiliates and advertisers."

* Clear Channel names Katrina Perez Market Manager for its four-station Melbourne, FL, group effective March 8. Perez most recently was General Sales Manager for Clear Channel's five Fort Pierce stations. Says SVP of Operations Southeast and West Dave Crowl, "I am very pleased to have Katrina join our radio station team in Melbourne. She brings a wealth of experience to Melbourne from her successful work in both our Miami and our West Palm Beach Treasure Coast radio stations. Katrina's energy coupled with our great team of professionals and the best ratings in years is certain to provide a surge in positive performance results." Perez adds, "With the most experienced staff in the market and the best ratings book in years, I am excited and honored to join this great team. There is no doubt this will be a stellar year for Melbourne!"

* Reggie Denson joins Tom Joyner's Reach Media as VP of Ad Sales for the Midwest region. Denson will oversee all marketing and sales strategies for Reach in the midwest, based in the company's Chicago office. "I'm thrilled to join Reach and work for such an innovative businessman like Tom Joyner," says Denson. "The Joyner brand is among the most powerful in media and we can use that great promotional strength to move the company to a whole new level. My passion is representing the Black consumer to the advertising community. Reach Media and the Tom Joyner Morning Show are the perfect media platforms representing and embracing the black community. We are the community." In his new position, Denson will be responsible for driving all sales activities in the Midwest, with an emphasis on new business. "We are delighted to have Reggie join Reach," says CEO David Kantor. "Reggie is one of the few premiere Urban Network Radio experts. We know he will help the company expand its advertising effort significantly." Reach Media is a cross platform media company founded by syndicated personality Joyner.

* New Covenant Ministries agrees to acquire News-Talk WBOB-AM, Jacksonville for $1.49 million.br> New Covenant Ministries, acquiring the station from Chesapeake-Portsmouth Broadcasting Corp, is planning to launch a radio outreach ministry that will broadcast Christian teaching on WBOB. "The format of the station will change," says Station Manager Robin Valetutto, who is looking for another Jacksonville station to host WBOB's lineup of syndicated and local talk shows. WBOB also broadcasts University of North Florida and Florida State University sporting events. In addition to buying WBOB, New Covenant Ministries is acquiring an FM translator in Atlantic Beach from The River Educational Media Inc. The translator will allow WBOB to boost its AM signal and reach parts of the Jacksonville area that can't receive it now.

* Legacy Communications closes on their $1.1 million purchase of Active Rock KKJK-FM, Ravenna, NE. The station serves Kearney, Hastings and Grand Isle. The seller is Community Radio. Legacy has been operating the station since 2006 under an LMA, with the option to purchase. Legacy is led by Jay Vavricek. Community is led by longtime broadcasters Don Wilks and Jeff Shapiro. Michael Bergner of Bergner & Co. was the exclusive broker in the transaction.

* Long Island's AM WNYG-AM is sold by Multicutural Radio to Radio Cantico Nuevo for $150,000. Actually, the price is $25,000 less, but the higher amount includes interest on a promissory note to be held by the seller. The station, previously licensed to Babylon, has a construction permit to move to Medford, further out on Long Island. Buyer Radio Cantico Nuevo, led by the Rev. Erick Salgado, is already operating WNYG through an LMA.

* Noncommercial KCSN-FM, Los Angeles, flips from Classical/Americana to Triple-A. LARadio.com reports the station, based at California State University, Northridge, changed formats at 10am Monday (March 1). “We just started looking at the music scene in Los Angeles and where there might be a niche for us as we build a new Performing Arts Center, we thought it made sense to be a little more eclectic and open and to meet a need in L.A.,” says Station GM Karen Kearns, associate dean of the college and professor in Cinema and Television Arts. “KCSN has been the little station that’s been looking for its niche and I think this is it," adds Kearns. Assisting with the format flip are John Sutton & Associates, a research and consulting service company for public radio stations.

* Clear Channel's Chicago "Mega 95.5" is reportedly preparing to rebrand as "El Patron." Lance Venta at RadioInsight.com reports: "Since its flip from Smooth Jazz to Spanish CHR last May, 'Mega 95.5' WNUA Chicago has been unable to gain any traction against a pair of Regional Mexican formatted stations: Univision’s 'La Que Buena 105.1' WOJO and SBS’ 'La Ley 107.9' WLEY. Clear Channel appears ready to take the 'If You Can’t Beat ‘Em, Join ‘Em Approach' as it is on the verge of rebranding the station as 'El Patron 95.5' based on a domain registration made last week. The 'El Patron' branding is already used by Clear Channel’s Regional Mexican station in Atlanta."

* Eddie & Jobo will be back on the air in Chicago — but only for a one-day fill. Ed Volkman and Joe Bohannon will be reunited on Chicago radio next week for the first time in 16 months, reports Robert Feder. The durable duo, who ended their 20-year run on CBS Radio Rhythmic CHR WBBM-FM in November 2008, will turn up as guest hosts on Citadel Broadcasting News-Talk WLS-AM. They’ll be filling in one day next week for afternoon personality Roe Conn.

* The Miami Dolphins are moving from WQAM-AM to a pair of Clear Channel stations in their home market. The Dolphins, after opting out of their deal with “Sports Radio” WQAM, are moving to WINZ-AM and WBGG-FM. A Facebook posting by "Newsradio 610" WIOD-AM says, "We are proud to announce that our sister stations 940 WINZ The Sports Animal and BIG 105.9 are your new home for The Miami Dolphins." The Dolphins, in leaving WQAM after three seasons, end a deal that would have paid the team $3 million in rights fee for the 2010-2011 season.

The Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel reported that the Dolphins "have abandoned WQAM (AM 560). The team had an option and chose not to exercise it." WQAM General Manager Joe Bell, who now has lost Neil Rogers, Hank Goldberg and the Dolphins is not taking it well, writes the newspaper's Tom Jicha. He says Bell tried to be gracious "but check the parenthetical reference in the next to last paragraph of the email he sent to the staff. A little sour grapes perhaps?" Here it is, unedited (the capital letters are his): ”The Miami Dolphins have elected NOT to exercise their option for a 4th year on WQAM. So, what does that mean? WQAM will no longer carry the Dolphins games. Life will go on. The Dolphins have expressed an interest in continuing to work with us. They recognize the importance of the WQAM audience (as well as Power and Kiss) and I think we’ll be pleasantly surprised by what we are able to do with the team. But we won’t be backing up ONE BIT on our Dolphin coverage. We’ll still have the best pre and post game shows in the market, the best Draft coverage, we’ll have the best daily talk and we’ll continue to have the player shows we’ve done (Marino, Crowder, Williams, Brown,etc). In short, we’ll be “South Florida’s Home for the Best Dolphins Coverage”. And we’re still the Flagship for the University of Miami Hurricanes (if I had to bet, the Canes will have a better season in 2010 than the Fins). Remember, 'Football Always Matters' at WQAM. And that won’t change.”

* SNL Kagan reports the FCC ended 2009 with 1.45 million indecency complaints, 12,049 open indecency cases. "The FCC's massive indecency backlog is consumed by complaints directed at cable networks and other content outside of the commission's jurisdiction," writes SNL Kagan's Tim Doyle. "According to documents obtained by SNL Kagan through a Freedom of Information Act request, the FCC Enforcement Bureau had 1.45 million complaints pending and 12,049 open cases on indecency at the end of 2009. Yet as many as 7,000 of those cases could be directed at political or racial content, as well as violent programming or material that aired on late-night broadcast channels or on cable networks, which are all outside of the commission's authority, an FCC source told SNL Kagan." Fox Television is the target of the largest portion of the complaints, with one episode of "Family Guy" generating 188,388 complaints. Among cable networks, CNN was the leading subject of indecency complaints.

* CRS 2010 attendance was up, is called successful by sponsor Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB). The annual event, held February 24-26 at the Nashville Convention Center, had a 3.5% growth from last year. This year’s CRS 2010 total attendance was 2,181, with 1,576 full registrants — attendees, exhibitors, panelists and sponsors — and 605 participant registrants. Participant registrants represent attendees that register for individual events or single day passes, but not the full three-day seminar. Last year’s CRS 2009 total attendance was 2,106. "We are extremely pleased that CRS 2010 not only met our expectations, but exceeded them this year in many ways,” says CRB interim Executive Director Bill Mayne. “The attendance, sponsorship, participation, and enthusiasm were especially heartening. The level of artist talent was stellar, and the radio agenda panels were thought provoking and relevant. We were encouraged to see the Country Radio industry really get behind this year’s seminar, and our attendance figures show that. Every participant had the opportunity to walk away with valuable resources, relationships and ideas, and we look forward to continuing to improve the CRS experience as we move forward with this event for many more years to come.”

Mike Culotta of WQYK, Tampa, is the newly elected President of CRB, Arista Nashville's RJ Curtis is VP. WKIS, Miami, GM Carole Bowen is Secretary, and AristoMedia Nashville's Jeff Walker is Treasurer. Chairing the CRS 2011 agenda committee is Dial Global's John Paul; Talking Stick Communications' Clint Marsh and Curb Records Nashville's Annie Sandor are co-vice chairs. Says the newly elected President, "What a vivacious, energetic Country Radio Seminar we had this year. I think it proves that when we work together as an industry, even during these challenging times, there's nothing this event can't accomplish." Culotta adds, I've always been a huge believer in CRS, and we all need to believe in it now more than ever. Let’s continue to grow through learning and innovation, because that’s what distinguishes leaders from followers."

* Todd Shannon is named Operations Manager for the Cox Jacksonville cluster. Shannon will help oversee CHR-Top40 WAPE, Classic Rock WFYV, Classic Hits WJGL, Alternative WXXJ, and News-Talk WOKV-AM. Shannon previously was Program Director at crosstown CHR-Top40 WFKS. He says he grew up listening to the Cox Jacksonville stations. And he adds, "Cox is a great company with a great team in place and I can't wait to get started!"

* Pandora tops Ando Media's January 2010 Top 20 Ranker of Internet radio stations. Pure-play Webcaster Pandora Corporate was the top single streamer on the monthly listing. CBS Radio is number two, followed by Clear Channel, Citadel and Entercom with the most Average Active Sessions, or the average number of streams of one minute or more that are active within a time period. January's Top 20 Ranker shows a return to pre-holiday streaming levels as in-office listening reflects the return to normal at work patterns.

* In Fort Lauderdale, FL. a man trying to set up an antenna for a pirate radio station was electrocuted Sunday. Fort Lauderdale police spokesman Frank Sousa says authorities were called to the home about noon Sunday (Feb. 28). Authorities say the electrocution appears to be accidental, reports the Sun-Sentinel. Sunday afternoon, the man's body, covered in a white sheet, was sprawled next to a downed power line loosely wrapped around a metal rod. The rod, set upright near a tree, had touched low-hanging power lines that straddle the house, says Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue spokesman Matt Little. The man's name has not been released; however authorities did say he was 27. "They were going to use the radio for Haiti," says a man who identified himself only as the owner of the rental home. Police were questioning him on the front lawn. Neighbors say the victim was of Haitian descent and had lived in the tan, one-story house with his wife and five children. Toys littered the front yard. "They didn't trouble anybody," said Alvin Reid, 83. "I always see the children going to school in the morning. We say hello and goodbye but that's about it." By Sunday afternoon, a Florida Power & Light Co. truck was parked at the front of the house, with a crew ready to repair the line.

* Sports Talk Radio War in Boston? "Vulgar" text messages sent to competitor land show producer in hot water. The simmering feud between Boston’s two sports radio powerhouses boiled over when a WEEI producer got slapped with a one-week suspension for texting “vulgar” messages to upstart rival "The Sports Hub," reports the Boston Herald's Jessica Heslam. Andy Massaua, who works for Glenn Ordway’s “The Big Show,” was suspended and has been banned from texting anyone at WBZ-FM. “Andy must think about, and reflect, on his irresponsible and sophomoric actions that will not be tolerated by this station,” said WEEI-AM Program Director Jason Wolfe. Heslam says Massaua never responded to repeated text messages seeking a comment. Damon Amendolara, also known as D.A., the nighttime host on WBZ-FM, said he couldn’t even read about 80% of the WEEI producer’s texts on the air during his show. The texts, he said, were aimed at several "Sports Hub" employees, including Amendolara and Chuck Perks, who does sports updates and used to work at WEEI. Amendolara read some of the texts on-air, including one thinly veiled homophobic insult, “D.A., isn’t Chuck Perks’ strength spinning records . . . in P-town?” Amendolara, who never identified Massaua by name, said the texter’s number was the first the station ever “red-flagged” as a problem. The station called the phone number and got the WEEI producer’s voice mail, he said. “We’ve got a pretty good sense of humor about ourselves, but you just can’t be vulgar,” Amendolara told listeners. Amendolara said Massaua had been texting his station “constantly” for months, sending a barrage of 22 one night alone. Mike Thomas, Program Director for the Sports Hub, said it’s the first texter to be blocked from messaging his station. “There was a person that was sending very graphic, vulgar text messages, numerous text messages, and we did block his phone number,” he said.

* Relieved he's cleared of a rape allegation, Michael Irvin says he might sue "ESPN Radio 103.3" KESN, Dallas. Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Irvin says he is grateful that the Florida District Attorney's office cleared him of a rape allegation. Now, he's thinking of suing ESPN for wrongful termination. Irvin had hosted a radio show on KESN. ESPNDallas.com reports Irvin said the rape case caused him deep pain, as he spoke at a news conference at the office of his attorney, Larry Friedman. "Its been a horrific ordeal," an emotional Irvin said. "I was put in a very difficult situation." The Broward State Attorney's office said it investigated the claims but a spokesman said there was no physical evidence because the woman waited more than two weeks to report the incident. Friedman says a $100 million countersuit against the woman is still alive. Irvin lost his show on "ESPN Radio 103.3" when the woman's lawsuit against the football star was announced, although at the time the station said the termination had already been planned because of poor ratings for the show, and the timing was only coincidental. Still, Irvin says now he's considering suing ESPN for wrongful termination. The woman filed her lawsuit on February 4, claiming she was sexually assaulted by Irvin at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in July 2007. Irvin said he was shocked by the allegation, which was revealed two days before the Super Bowl and a day before former teammate Emmitt Smith was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. "I was in a fetal position after I found out," Irvin told ESPNDallas.com Friday (Feb. 26). "The only thing that gave me strength was Emmitt going into the Hall of Fame."

* Supporters of a fired talk show host said they would rally Monday outside of WGY-AM, Schenectady, NY. Clear Channel's "News Talk 810 WGY" fired Al Roney Thursday (Feb. 25), announcing it would replace his show with Glenn Beck's syndicated show. According to TimesUnion.com, "WGY, noting Beck's popularity, says it made the move to improve its ratings. But Roney supporters are bemoaning the loss of a local voice on the Capital Region airwaves." Monday’s rally is scheduled at WGY's studios located in Latham, NY, for 9am-noon, the hours during which Roney’s show aired. According to WGY's Website, that is also when Beck's program is set to begin on the station. The rally, if held, will be the second radio station protest in recent weeks. Unhappy listeners of WROW-AM gathered earlier this month outside that station to protest its cancellation of its talk format. It was WROW’s format flip that made Beck’s program available to WGY.

* In Los Angeles, Stryker returns to KROQ, Monday (March 1); moves are made at sister "97.1 Amp" KAMP. CBS Radio has signed Stryker to a multi-year contract extension that brings him back to afternoon drive on Alternative KROQ, moving from afternoons on clustermate KAMP. Booker moves from middays to afternoons on "97.1 Amp," while middays will be hosted by by former "XM 20 on 20" PD & afternoon host Michelle Boros. Stryker joined KROQ in March 1999 as night host, eventually moving to afternoons, and later co-hosting "Loveline." Says Stryker, "I grew up in Los Angeles, and growing up in L.A. means listening to the World Famous KROQ. Both my passion for music and my career started with KROQ, and it’s exciting to be coming home." CBS Radio Programming SVP and KROQ & KAMP PD Kevin Weatherly says, "Stryker is a star in any format, but his true passion lies with KROQ. He’s done an outstanding job helping us launch Amp, but as we talked about his future over the past few months we both agreed his return to KROQ was the right move for him, the station, and the listeners who have come to know him through his more than 10 years in the market. And with the opportunity to bring Michelle on board at Amp the timing couldn't be better." Boros says, "I'm thrilled to join 97.1 Amp Radio, alongside such an amazing lineup with Carson Daly, Booker and McCabe. Amp is an exciting station, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with Kevin Weatherly and his talented team."

* Chicago's Adult Rock WXRT-FM is on the move again — physically. Always on top of Windy City media, Robert Feder tells us that two years after WXRT-FM left its longtime digs on the Northwest Side for the glitzy NBC Tower downtown, the station is on the move again to 2 Prudential Plaza. On Monday, the station’s sales department will relocate there, to be followed a week later by the programming department. In early June, Sports Talk "The Score" WSCR-AM (670) also will move from NBC Tower to Prudential, which currently houses CBS Radio’s all-news WBBM-AM, CHR-Top40 WBBM-FM, country WUSN-FM, Adult Variety Hits WJMK-FM and "Fresh" AC WCFS-FM. The result, according to Rod Zimmerman, SVP & Market Manager of CBS Radio in Chicago, “will give us all seven stations on four contiguous floors, which we are very excited about.” The company still owns WXRT’s original building at 4949 W. Belmont, site of the emergency backup transmitter for the five Chicago FM stations.

* Albany Broadcasting Company continues format changes in Albany, NY. This time WZMR-FM flips from Active Rock "104.9 The Edge" to New Country "104.9 The Cat." General Manager Chuck Benfer says "The Cat" will be "high energy," focusing on modern country hits with live and local air personalities. He also said that no positions have been eliminated and all staff members have been offered an opportunity to stay. Recently, Albany Broadcasting changed WKLI-FM from "Magic 100.9" Oldies-based AC to Adult Variety Hits "100.9 The Bridge." moving the "Magic" format to WROW-AM which had been a News-Talk station. The change at WROW was the source of controversy, as some listeners held a protest outside of the station’s building in Latham. Some of the protesters believed the move was a politically motivated attempt to silence WROW’s mostly conservative radio personalities. Albany Broadcasting maintains that wasn’t the case, saying ratings and revenues drove the decision.

* In Lincoln, Nebraska, the format wheel spins ... again ... and again — at AM 1480. Three Eagles' KLMS-AM flipped from Sports Talk to Classic Hits less than a month ago, but by March 8 will flip again — back to Sports Talk “ESPN 1480.” Lincoln Journal Star's Jeff Korbelik writes, "Welcome back, Mike Greenberg, Mike Golic, Colin Cowherd and Jim Rome." The report says Three Eagles Communications confirms that "ESPN 1480" will return by March 8, maybe sooner. "We listened to the public," says General Manager Joy Patten. "We decided to make that decision." KLMS had been Lincoln's only Sports Talk station since 1997 and an ESPN affiliate since 2000. Patten said Three Eagles made the switch to music for financial reasons. But since the change, listeners have called and emailed the company to express their disappointment, says Patten. "Which was good," she said. "We want to hear from the community. We are a locally oriented company." The KLMS lineup will be the same as before, including Jim Rome, who is not an ESPN personality. His show is syndicated by Premiere Radio Networks. The station also will continue to carry Lincoln Stars hockey and Kansas City Royals baseball. Patten says there will be no live, local show, but the station is open to producing another one. Its previous live show featured former Nebraska football player Jason Peter. "We're going to work on that," she says.

* Another station — this one in Astoria, OR — returns to Sports Talk after a previous move. New Northwest Broadcasting returns KKEE-AM to Sports, from liberal Talk, featuring Fox Sports Radio and Premiere's Jim Rom. "AM 1230 KKEE" moved away from Sports in October 2007. The station's Website has been replaced by a splash page saying, "Site Under Construction" and explaining the format flip, while asking listeners for their opinion.

* Country music fans spend less, listen to radio more says a two year study released by CMA. The findings of the study from the Country Music Association are aimed to help industry leaders better understand country music consumers during the recession and position themselves to stimulate growth. "I think it rivals any consumer segmentation story that's ever been done," says Dan Bowen, CMA's Vice President of Strategic Marketing and Communications. The study, commissioned by the CMA Board of Directors, was completed by Chicago-based groups, The Right Brain Consulting LLC and Leo Burnett Company. They surveyed 10,000 country music fans to see how they're spending their money and where. They discovered the economy had a major impact on fan habits. "They're finding ways to experience music online and through the radio and other free places," says Bowen. With decreased income comes a 28% dip in CD and concert sales along with legal music downloads. What's on the rise is what's free or cheaper — 93% of fans tune into radio every month. They spend nearly three more hours a week tuning in than they did just over a year ago. Digital downloads have grown from 60% to 72%. The study notes I-Tunes, Wal-Mart and Target as major retailers and e-tailers of country music. Nashville's WTVF-TV reports that the results are encouraging for Darlas Rai, a country music personality with Nashville's "103 WKDF." She hears from fans each night who call in, expressing concern about issues centered on the economy. "It used to not be a big deal to get a CD. I think it's a lot bigger deal to get a CD that's $12 or $20, you know," said Rai. "I think it means a lot to people to get their entertainment for free, and I think radio does that." Full study results are available on the CMA Website.

* Radio One confirms reports that it will not move back to Washington DC, citing economic conditions. Following a number of reports that it will not be making the long-expected move back to DC, including a report here, Radio One confirms it will remain in suburban Lanham, MD, because of the economy and the need for "fiscal discipline." Says President & CEO Alfred Liggins, "We understand the significance of revitalizing the Shaw neighborhood and are grateful to the District of Columbia for having allocated significant funds to assist Four Points" the developer "in attracting a tenant such as Radio One. We wish the District much success in encouraging the continued economic development of the Shaw neighborhood." However, he adds, "The current economic climate requires fiscal discipline and Radio One has an obligation to be austere in its approach to the use of capital. Radio One believes that there are more cost effective options for our corporate headquarters, especially given the decline in rents and widespread availability of commercial real estate." As we previously reported, Washington Business Journal wrote that the decision by Radio One not to move deals a major blow to an already long-delayed mixed-use project backed by the city. Radio One, owner of 53 urban radio stations in 16 markets nationwide, had planned to return to the city where it was founded by Catherine Hughes more than 20 years ago, with Hughes herself testifying before the DC Council about her desire to return to DC. Radio One would have been the anchor tenant in Broadcast Center One, a project that was slated to bring 103,000 square feet of office space, close to 25,000 square feet of retail, 180 apartments for rent, 45 of which would be reserved as affordable housing, and a 195-spot underground parking garage to the northeast corner of Seventh and S streets NW. DC had committed to providing the land — which sits directly atop an entrance to the Shaw-Howard University Metro station — and $23 million in subsidies for the deal in 2008, a package worth an estimated $30 million. The development team says the development, also known as Media Center One, will still take place.

* Univision Communications blasts Arbitron's PPM as it announces financial results for 2009 Q4 and the full year. For the fourth quarter, net revenue increased 2.1% to $515.9 million from $505.2 million in 2008 and adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization, or OIBDA, decreased 1.4% to $210.5 million from $213.5 million for Q4 2008. For the year, net revenue declined 2.9% to $1,972.5 million from $2,032.4 million in 2008 and OIBDA increased 3.2% to $823.4 million from $798.2 million year-to-year. Radio revenues were down 15.8% in the fourth quarter to $83.7 million. President & CEO Joe Uva says, "Univision made significant strides in many areas in 2009, even while navigating through a very challenging economic environment: we diversified our revenue streams through new retransmission consent agreements and key strategic partnerships; enhanced our future content offerings and production capabilities through the launch of Univision Studios; delivered strong, competitive ratings and maintained our strong leadership positions across all platforms; and effectively managed our balance sheet and strengthened our capital structure for the long-term." The company says it had "solid ratings in the markets measured by the diary method — and in Houston, where Arbitron's PPM is accredited." Uva says of PPM in other markets, "Arbitron's sample methodology and panel maintenance and recruitment is inherently biased against minorities, including Hispanics and African-Americans. That has to do with in-person recruitment practices, or lack thereof, as well as, we know many minorities, particularly younger Hispanic families are cell phone-only individuals and households. Their recruiting did not reflect accurately the sampling relative to the percentage of population. This is being addressed in a number of ways. At the end of the fourth quarter, the House Governement Oversight Committee held a hearing on Arbitron and required them to get back with a working solution plan to a coalition of minority broadcasters and the Media Rating Council. It is still ongoing. As you’re aware, Arbitron’s CEO resigned shortly after that hearing. We are encouraged that the new CEO is being more responsive. However, we continue not to encode in key markets and we’re not subscribing to use the ratings. We know that in order for this to fix itself we have to take some pain here, and we’re prepared to take that pain to get it fixed, because once it is fixed and is accredited by the MRC it’ll reflect an upside to this business." CFO Andy Hobson also took a shot at PPM, adding "Arbitron knows how to fix their samples — and they’ve done it in Houston, which is one of only three markets where they’ve been accredited by MRC — out of 33 now in operation — so they know how to do it. It’s more expense than they want to incur, and from our point of view, they need to make the right business decision as the monopolist supplier of radio research to produce intellectually honest ratings."

* Radio legend Gene Chenault of Drake-Chenault fame dies only days after being diagnosed with lymphoma. Chenault, born Lester Eugene Chenault, handled the business side of one of radio's most successful combinations, Drake-Chenault. Chenault was the owner of KYNO-AM, Fresno, when he first crossed paths with Bill Drake. The two later teamed in 1965 to make KHJ, Los Angeles, a Top 40 powerhouse, with a new "more music, less talk" concept, and exceptionally tight production values. The "Boss Radio" format soon spread to markets nationwide, handled by the Drake-Chenault consultancy. Later, Chenault and Drake formed Drake Chenault Syndication to distribute automated formats beginning with their successful Top 40 formula, soon expanding to other formats aimed at FM stations. Chenault handled the business side of the company, while Drake produced the music programming that was distributed via reel-to-reel. The company's formats ultimately went on to be distributed by satellite. Drake Chenault was sold in 1986 to Wagontrain Enterprises, which re-located to Albuquerque in 1987. Drake-Chenault also syndicated long-form radio specials including "The Top 100 of the Sixties" and "The Golden Years," both of which documented the history of pop music. "The Golden Years" spanned 1956 through 1972. The most famous was "The History of Rock & Roll" — originally a 48-hour special, later expanded to 52 hours as additional years were added — that chronicled the full history of the music genre back to its roots in the 1950s. Gene Chenault was 90 when he died this week. Bill Drake died in November 2008 of lung cancer.

* WLS-AM, Chicago, afternoon talk host Roe Conn finally signs a new contract with the Citadel station. "Roe Conn signs on the dotted line at WLS Radio," writes Chicago media reporter Robert Feder. "Thumbing his nose at critics and naysayers who predicted his demise, afternoon personality Roe Conn signed a contract extension Thursday [Feb. 25] that will keep him on Citadel Broadcasting news/talk WLS-AM (890) for the foreseeable future." Feder says that as one of the last of Chicago’s million-dollar radio stars, Conn was under pressure to reduce his compensation in exchange for additional security and bonuses. His previous contract would have expired June 1, but the new agreement locks him in through the end of 2011. During a break from his afternoon show Thursday (Feb. 25), Conn said, “I’m overjoyed. I couldn’t be happier to be continuing at WLS. I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.” Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but WLS President & GM Michael Damsky says Conn’s salary was “significantly more than has been reported elsewhere,” calling it “a very good deal for Roe in the current economic structure of radio.” Conn, 45, has been hosting afternoons on WLS since 1996. “Roe plays a unique leadership role with the air staff and management, and he’s very helpful to the sales department as well,” adds Damsky. “He’s the captain on the field.”

* Atlanta AC "B98.5" WSB decides to end the Steve and Vikki Show less than two years after a ballyhooed launch. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution's Rodney Ho, Steve McCoy is out for sure, confirms a Cox Radio official close to the situation who declines to be identified because he isn’t authorized to give out such information. Cox Radio Atlanta Market Manager Tony Kidd says he isn’t ready to discuss the situation just yet. The pair’s contract is up June 30. "B98.5" decided to take them off the air early because they have a deadline to give Steve & Vikki a third year. The station has chosen not to do so. A friend close to Vikki Locke says she has an option to stay on, perhaps as a solo morning host, starting July 1. She has not made up her mind but has until next week to say yes or no. If she doesn’t, WSB-FM might bring back Kelly Stevens and Alpha Trivette, the former morning team who helmed the "B98.5" morning slot for nearly a decade. The team has not been able to find a radio job since "B98.5" let them go in 2008. Steve & Vikki have been together for more than two decades, most of it at "Star 94," where they thrived for many years. "Star" – wanting to veer younger – dismissed them in 2007. "B98.5" hired them soon after in 2008. They returned to the air in July 2008.

* Report:   Howard Stern "won't work with DeGeneres Or DioGuardi" on "American Idol." MTV reports Stern says if he signs with Idol, he will bring his "own people" on board. Noting that rumors about Stern joining the "American Idol" judges' table after Simon Cowell's departure at the end of this season have been swirling for awhile, MTV says the shock jock would only get on board if two judges currently on the show — Ellen DeGeneres and Kara DioGuardi — were shown the door. "What do you want me to tell you? Listen, I won't work with Ellen DeGeneres or Kara DioGuardi. If I go to 'American Idol', they're out," he told New York Post reporter Cindy Adams. "They don't have an opinion. You gotta be with it, you gotta make the show happen." Stern didn't name potential replacements for DioGuardi and DeGeneres, but he did say he would bring his own people on board. "When I come in there, I'm gonna bring a couple of people — my own people with me — and we're going to take that show to new heights," he added. "Someone sings bad, we take the trap door and throw them right down the trap door. I'm going to put an electric dog collar on the contestants, when they screw up I'm going to shock 'em. You understand? We're going to talk a real show."

* Dr. James Dobson's final "Focus on Family" show aired Friday (Feb. 26). "I have a lump in my throat, but God's in control," Dobson said on the program, as he leaves the Colorado Springs-based Christian ministry he founded 33 years ago. On a recent previous broadcast, he had said of the approaching final show, "Nothing is forever. Everything has a shelf life." For Dobson, 73, both sadness and a conviction that "this is right" are the two emotions "going on inside" of him, he said Friday. The Christian Post reports that "some 40,000 cards expressing gratitude and appreciation have poured in for the evangelical leader who has spent three fourths of his professional life helping people build healthy families." Calls from listeners around the world were featured through the final week of the daily broadcast, each sharing how much Dobson has influenced their lives. Dobson plans to soon start his new show, "Family Talk with James Dobson," with his son, Ryan. The elder Dobson says the new show will not be in competition with "Focus on Family" which he notes is donating $1 million toward the new endeavor's start-up.

* Dave Robbins is named SVP & Market Manager for CBS Radio Orlando. Robbins is a onetime Chicago radio host who became VP & GM of multiple CBS Radio stations in Chicago. EVP of Operations Scott Herman says, "Dave is an outstanding broadcaster and Dan and I have been eager to find the right senior leadership role for him within our Company. We believe that Orlando is the right next step in his accomplished career." The reference to "Dan" is to CBS Radio President & CEO Dan Mason. Says Robbins, "To have been a part of the amazing CBS Chicago staff for the past seven years has been an incredibly powerful experience. Now, it is very exciting to return to Orlando and the team of extremely talented people to help take the cluster to the next level. To say I am excited is the understatement of the year!" What about Don Howe? "As we examined our current market management we have been impressed by the job Don Howe has done in Tampa and with the team he has assembled, and both Dan and I agreed he could make an even bigger difference if he could dedicate his time exclusively to that market," says Herman. The time Don has spent working with the Orlando cluster has put them in a much better position and the time is right for Dave to step in and execute on the vision we all see for our three stations in Central Florida." In addition to his Orlando duties, Robbins will continue to oversee CBS Radio's HD Programming effort. Meanwhile, in Chicago, SVP & Market Manager Rod Zimmerman will assume Robbins' previous duties overseeing WUSN and WCFS.

* Victor Kong joins CNN Radio as Vice President. Kong, an executive with a range of multi-media experience, will lead CNN Radio as VP, it was announced today (Feb. 25) by CNN News Services EVP Susan Grant. That's a division of CNN Worldwide which encompasses the company’s digital and affiliate businesses. Kong will manage CNN Radio in developing new audiences, partnerships, and content for digital platforms, and continue providing original audio news content to CNN’s terrestrial radio affiliates. He will be based in CNN’s Atlanta offices and will report to Grant. “We are excited to have Victor lead CNN Radio’s original audio news content in the media landscape,” says Grant. “Victor will expand CNN Radio into the digital world and develop audio content for consumer demand. He brings a dynamic skill set from his multimedia career and a proven track record building partnerships, growing audiences and integrating digital media.” Prior to joining CNN, Kong was EVP of Sales and Business Development at Hoodiny. Previously, Kong served as Vice President at MySpace Latin America, where he also served as Managing Director since 2007, starting the company in Latin America, launching the mobile business, initiating aggressive viral marketing campaigns and producing numerous community-building events. Prior to that position, he was VP of Growth Strategy and New Media Sales and Business Development for MTV Networks Latin America. More from CNN...

* Lincoln Financial Media promotes three to sales management positions at "Star 94.1 FM" WSTR, Atlanta. Nancy Barre, Kim Willoughby and Dave Morganlander receive the promotions at the CHR-Top40 station. Barre, a 22-year becomes General Sales Manager, while Willoughby rises to Local Sales Manager and Morganlander is named National Sales Manager. Barre joined WSTR-FM in August 2009, as National Sales Manager, from Citadel's crosstown Country WKHX-FM and WYAY-FM, where she served in the same capacity. Willoughby, who has been Internet Account Manager, will now oversee local, interactive and non-traditional sales. Before coming to WSTR a year ago, she was a Sales Manager AT WWWQ-FM and a sales consultant for WABB-FM in Mobile. Morganlander is upped from Local Account Executive. He's held positions at Interep, ABC Radio Sales and WBTS-FM. Morganlander joined WSTR last spring. Says VP & General Manager Rick Mack, "I'm fortunate to have the bench strength that allows me to promote from within. We have three outstanding people who understand the talents and strengths of our sales team. I am confident they will lead us to the next level." New GSM Barre tells us, "I'm very excited to take on this new role. Kim and Dave are both extremely talented and I look forward to working with them in a closer capacity. I feel like Star 94 is poised to make wonderful achievements and our incredible sales marketing force will help us get there."

* Joel Katz joins Greater Media AC "Magic 98.3" WMGQ, New Brunswick, NJ for weekend hosting. Katz takes Sunday nights 8pm-midnight. He segues from Sunday nights at Millenium "New Jersey 101.5" WKXW, Trenton, NJ — the weekday talker, "where the music comes out to play on weekends." Katz has previously handled morning drive for WMGQ. He's also a veteran of many New Jersey and Philadelphia stations.

* A female professional wrestler accuses syndicated radio host Bubba the Love Sponge of hate call, files suit. According to Courthouse News Service, pro wrestler Awesome Kong filed a lawsuit claiming Bubba called her in the middle of the night from a blocked number and threatened to "'sucker punch' her until she stopped breathing," adding, "You'll be dead like all those other niggers in Haiti you fat black bitch!" Kong, whose real name is Kia Stevens, says AT&T refuses to identity the caller, who she believes is Todd Clem, aka Bubba the Love Sponge. Stevens, who works for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, says she got into a backstage spat with Clem, a Total Nonstop contracted interviewer and radio host known as Bubba the Love Sponge, after Clem disparaged efforts to raise money for victims of the earthquake in Haiti. Stevens claims Clem called her at her Tampa home from a blocked number at 5am February 10. She claims the caller said, "'This is Bubba the Love Sponge here at...' and at this point the caller named a radio station" and then alluded to the fact that the call was being broadcast on the radio. "The caller then started talking in a stream, threatening to come to the petitioner's house and 'sucker punch' her until she stopped breathing and then said, 'You'll be dead like all those other niggers in Haiti you fat black bitch ... F**k Haiti!" According to media reports, Clem claimed on his show that Stevens had approached him backstage after a January 18 wrestling match and "sucker-punched" him in the face several times while yelling "This is for Haiti!" Kong reportedly served a two-day suspension for the altercation. Stevens is suing Clem and AT&T, demanding that the phone company release records that would identity the caller.

Bubba released a statement denying the allegations, saying they are "100% false." The radio host adds, "To be clear; everything contained in this petition is not true. Ms. Stevens attributing outrageous racist statements and physical threats to me is disgusting. We can prove without any doubt the allegations made in this petition are false. First Ms. Stevens claims that she was called on the air, at 5:08 AM on February 10, we are not even on the air until 6 AM Eastern time. We have phone records and eye witnesses that account for my every movement that day from 4:50 AM forward. No call was made to Ms. Stevens at all. We will be pursuing all legal remedies available to us in the State of Florida to fight these deliberately malicious allegations."

* Arbitron promotes the value of ethnic radio in two "Radio Today" studies. Arbitron says the "Black Radio Today 2009, How America Listens to Radio" and "Hispanic Radio Today 2009, How America Listens to Radio" have been released and are available at Arbitron.com. Both studies feature PPM data information for the first time. "Ethnic formatted stations reach millions of listeners everyday," says Alton Adams. "These studies show the strength of radio as a media companion to ethnic consumers. Radio's relationship with ethnic listeners has been consistent over time; year over year, more than 90% of black and Hispanic listeners tune in to radio for news, culture and sounds of the community."

Black Radio Today 2009, How America Listens to Radio shows:

* For the first time, Urban Contemporary formatted stations had higher weekend ratings in Fall 08 than in weekday afternoons.
* African-American Urban Adult Contemporary listeners spent more time each week with the format (8 hours, 30 minutes) than any other format in the study.
* More than half of Urban Contemporary's 18+ consumers attended or graduated from college, and one in seven had advanced degrees or beyond.
* News/Talk/Information has 2,634 stations and attracts 2.7 million African-American listeners weekly.

Hispanic Radio Today 2009, How America Listens to Radio key findings include:

* #1 Format among all Hispanics is Mexican Regional
* #1 English-language format among Hispanics is Rhythmic CHR.
* Radio's reach among Hispanic listeners has remained between 94% and 96%, since the beginning of the Hispanic Radio Today series in 2001
* Hispanic weekend ratings have grown in relation to weekday listening

* The controversial sale of Classical KFUO, St. Louis, has two more vocal opponents — both Congressmen. U.S. Reps. William “Lacy” Clay Jr. (D-MO) and John Shimkus (R-IL) both spoke out against the planned sale of KFUO-FM on the House floor. The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod struck a deal last fall to sell the classical music station to Christian broadcaster Joy FM for $26 million. The St. Louis Business Journal reports that Shimkus said, “As a member of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, this is not a position that I take lightly, but I truly believe that the sale of our area’s lone classical music station does the church and the community wrong. My wife is a classical musician, and as residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area, we take advantage of the fine arts that KFUO-FM supports. That cooperative link will hurt many regional institutions.” Shimkus joined other Missouri Synod Lutherans who signed one of several petitions opposing the sale.

* Burlington, NC, radio host Bill Huff again faces driving-related charges after he was involved in a wreck. Huff, the longtime co-host of Talk Line, a morning call-in show on WBAG-AM, was driving his wife’s sport utility vehicle when he ran a red light and collided with 26-year-old Candace Lancaster of Burlington, according to a police crash report. Huff and Lancaster were hurt, but the injuries were apparently minor, reports Burlington's Times-News. Huff, 75, was charged with running a red light and driving with a revoked license, and cited for supposedly having neither a current registration nor a valid inspection on the vehicle. In December, Huff pleaded guilty to driving while impaired as part of a plea deal stemming from a crash Burlington. District Court Judge Wayne Abernathy ordered Huff to surrender his license, imposed a 60-day suspended sentence with a year’s probation and levied a fine and community service. The judge granted Huff limited driving privileges so he could drive within Alamance County for emergencies and “work-related or educational purposes during standard working hours,” according to a court document.

* News-Talk KIRO-FM and KTTH-AM, Seattle, Program Director Rod Arquette is calling it quits. Arquette, who has been PD for the two Bonneville stations since April 2007, will remain through the end of March. Before joining the Seattle stations, Arquette spent several years as VP of News & Programming for Bonneville's Salt Lake Radio Group and PD of KSL-AM. "After a lot of honest conversations, I came to the conclusion that it was time to move on and for my wife, Cindy, and me to return to our family and home in Salt Lake City," says Arquette. "Family is very important to us and being with them is what brings us the most joy."

* A big surprise, as AC "99.9 KEZ" KESZ morning co-host Bill Austin tells listeners he’s retiring immediately. Thursday morning (Feb. 25), Austin who has spent nearly 20 years co-hosting with Beth McDonald on KESZ, announced his retirement after 40 years in radio. "After 40 years in broadcasting—I know I look much younger— almost 20 with Beth and KEZ, I have decided there are a lot of things I need to and want to do," said Austin. "This will be hard as every time I see something in the news I will be thinking of how Beth and I can have fun with it. Man, have we been lucky, most partnerships are not as rosy as they appear. I can honestly say Beth and I have never had an argument! I don't think we have ever been mad at each other. Take it from a guy who has been married 6 or 8 times — that's something!" Says KESZ Program Director Kevin Gossett, "Bill is one of nicest, funniest, most genuine guys I've met in life, let alone the media. He's as equally at ease listening to and enjoying a story as he is telling one, and that's something that makes him unique in our business. It doesn't matter whether he's working with a microphone or a television camera or both. Bill Austin is one of those rare personalities that transcend the medium he's on, and I, along with the entire KEZ family, will miss working with him a lot."

* CTM Media Holdings reveals the buyer for WMET-AM, Washington DC, is Huffines Media. CTM previously said it had a letter of intent for the sale, but would not say who the buyer is. In officially announcing the deal, CTM says it's selling the station to Huffines Media, and now has a definitive agreement. The price is also revealed — $4 million — a combination of cash and a promissory note secured by the station's assets. An amount of $1.3 million will be due in cash by the closing and the remainder under a two year note, which is extendable in part to three years at the option of Huffines. The buyer also has the option of paying a total of $3.6 million in cash at the closing as payment in full for the transaction. CTM expects the transaction to close by early in its fourth fiscal quarter. CTM also announced that its board of directors has approved the payment of a dividend in the aggregate amount of $0.25 per share (approximately $2 million in the aggregate) which will be paid to holders of CTM Media Holdings Class A, Class B and Class C common stock. The dividend will be payable on or about March 15, 2010 to stockholders of record as of March 8, 2010. Says CTM Chairman Howard Jonas, "The sale of WMET shows that management is committed to taking the steps necessary to create value for our shareholders. We are also demonstrating that we do not intend to retain cash beyond our foreseeable needs unless we have a firm plan for deploying that cash and generating returns." CEO Marc Knoller adds, "WMET has not been profitable for CTM and we believe that this sale is in the best interest of the company and our shareholders. We continue to streamline operations to operate our core businesses efficiently and seek opportunities to expand by adding volume and complementary offerings." CTM Media Holdings, a Delaware corporation, is a holding company whose main holdings are CTM Media Group, a brochure distribution company, and a majority interest in Idea and Design Works, a comic book and graphic novel publisher. WMET-AM is CTM's only broadcast holding. Its sale is subject to FCC approval.

* A restructuring of Clear Channel Communications is inevitable, Moody's Investors Service says in a new report. However, says Moody's, private equity owners Bain Capital and Thomas H. Lee Partners may try to delay restructuring as long as possible. While Clear Channel could issue additional debt through its outdoor unit to make it through 2014, that would only postpone a restructuring by a couple of years, says Moody's analyst and lead author Neil Begley. The company will still face a critical hurdle in 2016, when about $13.8 billion of debt comes due, and leverage is expected to remain too high to attract more investment and refinance the debt, Moody's says. "It is clear under our assumptions for operating improvement and valuation multiples that the company's debt levels are unmanageable and unrefinancable." Reuters, reporting on the Moody's report, says a spokesman for Bain Capital declined comment. while a spokesman for Thomas H. Lee could not immediately be reached for comment. Laden with nearly $16 billion in additional debt by its 2008 buyout, Clear Channel then faced tumbling advertising revenues amid one of the worst consumer-led recessions in recent history, Moody's said. The rating agency says it expects Clear Channel to burn cash through 2011 because of its investment in outdoor digital signage and paralyzing debt service costs. Says Moody's, even though it will likely begin to generate modest free cash flow in 2013, it is not expected to be able to refinance about $3.7 billion of debt due in 2014 with cash on hand. To postpone a restructuring and refinance its maturities, however, Moody's said it expects the company to sell more debt through its outdoor subsidiary. The outdoor unit in December raised $2.5 billion in the high-yield market, using proceeds to repay debt owed to parent Clear Channel. Bain Capital and Thomas Lee Partners will likely do everything they can to keep the company out of bankruptcy as long as possible in the hopes that the advertising environment improves and some value is restored, the rating agency said. If Clear Channel were to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, control of the company would be turned over to the creditors and the sponsors' initial investment would be lost, Moody's said. As we previously reported here, Moody's recently raised its ratings on Clear Channel, saying that the December refinancing has eliminated the risk of an imminent restructuring or bankruptcy. However, the agency warned at the time that a restructuring would likely be needed eventually.

* Sirius XM says its 2009 revenue was up 4% over the previous year. The satcaster reports its pro forma 2009 revenue was $2.53 billion, up 4% over 2008 pro forma revenue of $2.44 billion. Sirius XM's pro forma adjusted income from operations was $463 million versus a negative result of $136 million in 2008. "2009 was a notable year of firsts for Sirius XM. The first full year of positive pro forma adjusted income from operations and the first full year of positive free cash flow in the company's history," says CEO Mel Karmazin. "We demonstrated considerable operating momentum in the fourth quarter — the addition of over 250,000 subscribers, ARPU growth, revenue growth, improved SAC, and continued operating cost reductions. These gains position us to deliver on our 2010 guidance." For the fourth quarter of 2009, the satcaster's pro forma average revenue per subscriber (ARPU) grew to $10.92 from $10.65 in the same year a year earlier. The average self-pay monthly customer churn rate was 2.0% in the fourth quarter of 2009, as compared with 1.8% during the fourth quarter of 2008. Looking to 2010, the company expects full-year revenue of over $2.7 billion. Free cash flow is expected to remain positive in 2010. "We expect to add over 500,000 net subscribers this year, exceeding the company's previous subscriber high of 19 million at the end of 2008. We also expect this year's adjusted income from operations to be up approximately 20% to $550 million," says Karmazin. More from Sirius XM...

* Two former Viacom/CBS execs launch new ventures to get "media and technology companies to work together." According to the New York Post, the separate ventures are with "hopes of getting media and technology companies to work together more cooperatively — though they are approaching the divide in vastly different ways." The Post's Peter Lauria refers to the two as "refugees from Sumner Redstone's media empire." Former MTV COO Michael Wolf launches Activate, a consulting firm aimed at developing strategies to help media companies use technology to innovate and grow. "Most media companies have come through the cost-cutting phase, so now is the ideal moment to think about growth and ways to innovate to create the next wave of strategy," says Wolf. "Media CEOs have a huge opportunity ahead of them, but it requires changing the business and that's a skill set we can help with." Separately, Quincy Smith, who spent three years as President of CBS Interactive, opens Code Advisors. Unlike Activate, Code Advisors will focus more on traditional banking services like mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, and loan underwriting. "There's a translation required between the culture of technology and the culture of media," says Smith. Both Wolf and Smith have recruited big names as partners in their ventures.

* Adam Bomb joins Cumulus CHR-Top40 "i93" KLIF, Dallas, for morning drive. Bomb most recently handled nights for sister CHR-Top40 "Q100" WWWQ, Atlanta. He rounds out the station's hosts lineup. Says VP & Market Manager Dan Bennett, “I am extremely excited to bring a major market, highly-rated talent like Adam to Dallas-Fort Worth. Adam will bring a great balance of personality and music, which will have instant relevance in the market.” Adam Bomb — not to be confused with Atom Bomb — started in Pittsburgh at "B94" as an air talent and Music Director. He also hosted TV shows for KDKA and UPN19. And he worked at "Y100" in Miami before going to "Q100" in Atlanta. "Adam has all the talent tools that will add acceleration to our Top 40 launch mode in Dallas-Fort Worth," says Cumulus Programming SVP Jan Jeffries. "Until now, the market had one Top 40 morning show. We believe there is room for two in the #5 market. We look forward to giving Dallas-Fort Worth a choice of Top 40 each morning that will have immediate relevance!"

* Former "Magic 100.9" WKLI, Albany, NY, launches Adult Variety Hits "100.9 The Bridge." The Latham, NY-based station debuted the new format, Wednesday (Feb. 24) at 10:09am. WKLI's former “Magic” format is now airing on WROW 590 AM. WROW had been a News-Talk station until earlier this month when it began simulcasting with its sister. Albany Broadcasting General Manager Chuck Benfer says "The Bridge" is an adult hits station playing “the widest variety from every genre and any era.” He tells Albany Business Review “It is a good, fun format to program. We have a 2,500-song library and we are rotating them in and out all the time.” He says the format draws primarily from pop and rock hits of the 1980s, but can include just about anything. “You may hear Bryan Adams or John Mellencamp or Bruce Springsteen and then a Lady Gaga song will come on, then we may do country and then back to pop. The idea is to play the widest variety of adult hits.” Benfer says market research indicated that such a format would position WKLI well against some of the Classic Rock stations in the area, while not detracting from its sister AC WYJB 95.5. Benfer says "The Bridge" is similar to the eclectic “Jack” format heard nationally, although Jack stations tend not to have live personalities. WKLI will, eventually, be all live. The station will introduce its mid-day host and program director next week. “We will move toward adding a live morning show and afternoon show as those opportunities become available, and the idea is that within a year we will be all live,” he says. The Albany Times-Union reports the change at sister AM WROW was the source of controversy. The Times-Union writes, "The decision to drop talk radio wasn’t popular with some listeners and even led to a protest outside of the station’s building in Latham. Some of the protesters believed the move was a politically motivated attempt to silence WROW’s mostly conservative radio personalities." Albany Broadcasting maintains that wasn’t the case, saying ratings and revenues drove the decision.

* "101.9 FM The Mix" WTMX, Chicago, morning co-host Eric Ferguson undergoes another urgent heart surgery. Chicago media reporter Robert Feder says Ferguson — of the Hot AC station's "Eric and Kathy" — surprised listeners Wednesday (Feb. 24) with news that he was taking off to undergo his second urgent heart surgery in three weeks. Ferguson spent three days in the hospital last month for treatment of an irregular heart rhythm. While Ferguson is out, filling in alongside partner Kathy Hart is "Mix" afternoon host Kevin “Koz” Koske. Feder writes in a later update, "An upbeat Ferguson emailed me: 'We’re going to get all of it this time!'" And says the media reporter at Blogs.Vocalo.org, in an even later update Wednesday night, Ferguson emailed, "Up and moving around . . . will be checking in to the show tomorrow, and back full strength Friday!"

* An Oregon radio station loses its license as the FCC denies an STA request to remain silent. KRAM-AM, West Klamath, OR, filed the special temporary authority request, but the FCC denies it and declares the station's license is expired. KRAM's call sign has been deleted, and its pending license renewal has been dismissed. Sandra Falk was KRAM's licensee from 1996 until her 2006 death. Falk's sole beneficiary, Sandra Soho, managed Falk's estate until the state of Oregon petitioned for her removal, saying Soho was involved in a fraudulent real estate transfer of Falk's property and that she concealed the facts of the sale from the court. Scott MacArthur, who was named to represent the estate, filed applications for the license renewal and for the STA. KRAM-AM went silent in July 2006 and didn't return to the air until more than three years later — that from an unauthorized site. FCC rules say that if a station that does not broadcast for any consecutive 12-month period, its license expires at the end of that time. With KRAM's long silence and return to the air from a site with different coordinates, the FCC has now ruled that KRAM's license expired on July 1, 2007, and has chosen not to reinstate the license at its own discretion.

* Ad spending in the U.S. plunged 9% to $117 billion last year, with only four of 19 media categories rising. But, according to an annual Nielsen report, a later-breaking partial recovery could portend a positive trend. Advertising was down more than 15% through the first half of 2009. If not for a second-half surge — including a modest 2% fourth-quarter decline — things would have been more dire. "Most of the top advertisers showed increased spending late in the year," says Nielsen New Business Development SVP Terrie Brennan. Brennan. "These are encouraging signs for an ad market that's still trying to stop the bleeding." But, writes THR.com, "there's no denying the year was ugly." As recently as 2007, advertising was still in growth mode, albeit less than 1%. It took a turn for the worse in 2008 by dropping nearly 3%, then tumbled the next year with the 9% decline reported Wednesday (Feb. 24). AdWeek reports that while Nielsen did not break out spending by individual advertiser, "One area that continued to hemorrhage: auto ads. Between dealers and makers, $3.5 billion in spending evaporated from the market last year, per Nielsen. Factory and dealer association spending was down 23 percent to $8 billion from $10.5 billion in 2008. Local dealer ads also dropped 23 percent to $3.2 billion. Wireless phone ads were down 8 percent to $3.3 billion. Pharma, however, was up 2 percent to $4.5 billion, while quick-service restaurants and department stores were also up a percentage point or two." Fifteen of the 19 media sectors Nielsen tracks were down. The biggest gainer was Spanish-language TV, up 32%. The biggest loser: local Sunday supplements, down 45%.

* President & CEO Leslie Moonves signs a new five year employment agreement with CBS Corp. The new agreement, which supersedes his prior contract that ran through 2011, extends his employment with CBS through February 2015. Moonves' salary remains the same, and he keeps his eligibility for annual performance-based bonuses. "This is, above all, great news for every shareholder of CBS," says Executive Chairman Sumner Redstone. "Leslie is a superb executive who has led CBS to a position of unparalleled leadership in the industry. This agreement not only secures the future of the company for many years to come, it also further aligns and strengthens the interests of the chief executive with those of our shareholders." Moonves adds, "I have the privilege of working with the greatest team of people in this or any other business. I am very gratified that my relationship with the Company will continue as we build on the strong foundation we have laid for ongoing growth and success." Moonves has headed up CBS Corp. since it split from Viacom in early 2006.

* Two familiar radio voices fill Air America demise gaps at WWRL-AM, New York. WWRL Program Director Rennie Bishop says Thom Hartmann is now heard 3-6pm weekdays and Mark Riley airs 6-8 pm. Bishop says a few smaller adjustments will also be made in the next week or so. The rest of the lineup now includes Daily News columnist Errol Louis, 6-9am; Stephanie Miller, 11am-noon; Ed Schultz, noon-3pm; Al Sharpton, 8-10pm; and Alan Colmes, 10 pm-1am. Bishop tells the New York Daily News he was not surprised about the demise of Air America, which had leased 3-8pm. "I think we anticipated where this was headed," says Bishop. He says, however, that "without question, there is an audience for an alternative to conservative talk radio." He said there has already been "a very strong response" to Hartmann's return. "I think we will have a strong first quarter."

* The voice over industry continues to grow and is currently valued at $12.3 billion. That's according to the 2010 "Report on the Voice Over Industry" published by Voices.com. The report highlights three growing fields in the entertainment industry — audiobooks, mobile gaming and podcasting. Some highlights include: Audiobook CD sales represent 72% of the audio market; Audiobook downloads grew to 21% of the market; and, 150,000 podcasts are currently available in the Apple iTunes Store. The report also says that 7.1 million people listened to podcasts in 2009, less than 4% of U.S. Internet users, while another 50 million people accessed podcasts and Internet radio on average each month.

* A junior hockey play-by-play announcer was thrown out of a playoff game in Billings, MT, because he voiced his displeasure with the officials as they skated by the press area following the second intermission. Billings Bulls play-by-play announcer Bill Callahan, whose calls are heard via Webcast, was ejected from the NorPac Hockey League playoff game at Centennial Ice Arena by referee Norm Lochtin, reports the Billings Gazette. Callahan initially refused but agreed to leave when Bulls assistant coach Kyle McGlone was also ejected during the disruption. Taylor Fritts, a former Bulls player who handles video duties, called the first five minutes of the final period before public address announcer Lee Webber took over the play-by-play for the rest of the game.

* The RAB will present six sales and marketing sessions at this year's April NAB Show in Las Vegas. The sessions will be led by top industry leaders in both industries including RAB executives and trainers. "Attendees will learn about developments facing the radio industry today and how they can continue to prosper in their roles," says the RAB. "These sessions add great value to this year's show," says NAB EVP Radio John David. "The RAB sessions will give you real money ideas and promotions for immediate revenue." Scheduled sessions include: Small/Medium Market Idea Swap; Recruiting and Retaining Sales & Management Superstars; Effective Communication is the Foundation of Successful Stations; How to Thrive, Not Just Survive in Today's Market; Raising Radio Rates; and, Combating Digital's Acquisition Pricing Model. "The NAB Show is an essential learning experience for Radio sales professionals," says RAB VP of Training John Potter. "Keeping up with the latest in media technology, and learning how stations can increase revenue opportunities is an excellent way for stations, and their sales force to thrive during these challenging times." NAB Show in Las Vegas will be held April 10-15.

* Arbitron develops a new training program for the digital Out-of-home industry. Arbitron is launching a new educational series that includes insights on Out-of-home Video Advertising Bureau (OVAB) Audience Metrics Guidelines for digital out-of-home place-based media advertising affiliates. In a news release, Arbitron says, "The core curriculum is targeted to sales professionals, executives, media consultants and others who desire a better understanding of the digital place-based media industry. Led by a team of experienced media training instructors, the diploma series is interactive and engaging. The series includes insights on the agency business, best practices for advertising in traditional media and developing a digital out-of-home media selling strategy." Captivate Network, a digital programming and advertising network with over 9,000 screens in the elevators of premier office towers across North America will leverage the training program to learn more about how media is sold and specific benefits to selling digital out-of-home. "Digital place-based media has become a driving force in the media landscape and we must be proactive in communicating that message to the industry," says Captivate Network President & GM Mike DiFranza. "The more people understand the value of place-based media networks, the more comfortable media buyers will become in adding it to their media mix." OVAB President Suzanne La Forgia says, "OVAB's members represent the best in class in digital place-based and out-of-home networks and suppliers. Arbitron developed their training program with the OVAB Audience Metrics Guidelines at their core which supports our mission of promoting and advancing the entire industry."

* Clear Channel extends its traffic information system with "Total Out of Home Network." The traffic information data is now appearing on digital billboard networks. The new program launches in Chicago, and will be expanded to more markets. "In an increasingly crowded advertising marketplace, companies need to stand out and target audiences in a direct, clear way," says Clear Channel EVP & Global Media Sales President John Partilla. "The Total Out of Home Network is just another example of how Clear Channel's integrated platform across radio, outdoor, web and mobile offers advertisers more access to consumers on the go than any other company." The Illinois Lottery is the first sponsor of the program in Chicago with a thirteen-week campaign running on 19 digital billboards. In addition to traffic information, the digital boards feature Illinois Lottery's winning Powerball Jackpot numbers. "Our traffic content is available on radio, television, navigation devices, the Internet, and now on digital billboards. With the number of drivers on the road today, it's critical to have access to accurate, updated traffic information to navigate complex roadways safely and more effectively," says Total Traffic Network Chicago Market Director Barry Butler. "Illinois Lottery has long been a pioneer in creating innovative campaigns on our platforms and this new program offers another access point to the local community."

* Greater Media's Philadelphia cluster signs an agreement with Metro Traffic for traffic and news reports. The cluster includes Rock WMMR, Classic Rock WMGK, Sports "97.5 The Fanatic" WPEN-FM, "ESPN 950" WPEN-AM, and Adult Variety Hits "95.7 BEN FM" WBEN. "We are excited to both grow our relationship with Greater Media and expand our Philadelphia presence to offer our advertisers more choices and opportunities on an outstanding lineup of radio stations," says Metro Affiliate Sales VP Jack Dunkle. "We look forward to providing Greater Media a seamless transition with their long-term commitment to Metro Traffic." Greater Media Philadelphia Sales VP Paul Blake adds, "Greater Media is committed to serving its listeners with the absolute best content no matter what format they choose. This demands the most accurate and reliable traffic and news information available, and Metro Traffic delivers." With the exception of WMGK, the stations previously obtained their info from rival Traffic.com.

* Yahoo enters a global partnership with Twitter to integrate real-time search. As part of Yahoo's Open Strategy to make the Web more open, people will have the ability to update their Twitter status and share content from Yahoo in their Twitter stream. The integration follows similar moves by Google and Microsoft Bing, as well as Yahoo's agreement with Facebook in December. The deal allows Facebook users to share content from Yahoo sites with friends, such as comments on Flickr and Yahoo News. Integrating Facebook and Twitter into Yahoo's sites allows anyone with a Yahoo ID to post status updates to multiple social networks simultaneously. Being signed into the network also lets Yahoo serve up relevant content specific to each person as they travel across news, sports, finance and other properties. And although Yahoo's announcement does not mention how the content in the real-time Twitter tweets will influence paid search or display ads, writes MediaPost, advertising industry experts expect to see even more changes in ad-serving tactics based on consumer behavior and preference. The real-time search integration becomes available immediately on Yahoo Search. Other parts of the deal between Yahoo and Twitter are expected to launch later this year.

* Country Radio Broadcasters present Radio and Artist Humanitarian Awards at CRS 2010 in Nashville, February 24. The Large Market winner is Max Media's WGH, Norfolk, which participates in Country Cares for St. Jude Kids, partners with the Center for Child and Family Services on a Country for Kids Concert, and works with the Susan G. Komen Foundation, March of Dimes, and other community-service organizations. The Medium Market winner is Clear Channel's KXKT, Omaha, which raised more than $1.3 million for more than 50 charities. The Small Market winner is Clear Channel's WKSF, Asheville, NC, which raises funds for more than 70 charities. The CRB Radio Humanitarian Awards are presented to full-time Country stations for efforts to improve the quality of life in their communities. The CRB's Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award went to Beasley Broadcast Group founder and Chairman George Beasley. Beasley has 42 stations in 11 markets, and operates country stations in five markets. Beasley is a member of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, and Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, recently added the George G. Beasley Broadcasting Complex. The Tom Rivers Award is given at the discretion of the CRB Board to recognize an individual who has demonstrated a spirit of caring and generosity in service to the community. The Artist Humanitarian Award was presented to Trace Adkins, who since 2002 has worked with the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, which is dedicated to educating the public on potentially life-threatening food allergies. Adkins, who has a daughter with severe food allergies, has been the organization's national spokesman since 2005. CRS is Nashville’s biggest annual Country radio industry event. It opened Wednesday (Feb. 24), as CRS 2010 began at the Nashville Convention Center. Proclaimed “Country Radio Week” by Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, the week of Country Radio Seminar is the culmination of months of planning by Country Radio Broadcasters to bring together the best and brightest educators, speakers and performers that the Country Radio industry has to offer.

* ESPN suspends Tony Kornheiser for "hurtful and personal comments" made on the radio. The "Pardon the Interruption" TV co-host is suspended for two weeks for comments he made last week about colleague and SportsCenter anchor Hannah Storm on his radio show on “ESPN 980” WTEM-AM, Washington DC. Kornheiser said Storm was wearing "a horrifying, horrifying outfit" and a "very, very tight shirt." Kornheiser, trying to be funny, said of Storm, "She looks like she has sausage casing wrapping around her upper body." He then added, "I know she's very good, and I'm not supposed to be critical of ESPN people, so I won't, but Hannah Storm ... come on now! Stop! What are you doing?... She's what I would call a Holden Caulfield fantasy at this point." In suspending Kornheiser, the network said those were "hurtful and personal comments." He did apologize the following day, opening his radio show saying, "I apologize, unequivocally... I'm a sarcastic, subversive guy... I'm a troll, look at me. I have no right to insult what anybody looks like or what anybody wears. That, I think, should go without saying." ESPN Content EVP John Skipper says, “Tony Kornheiser’s comments about Hannah Storm were entirely inappropriate. Comments such as these are not acceptable and have significant consequences.” When Dan LeBatard filled in for Kornheiser on the Monday (Feb. 22) TV show, no explanation was given for Kornheiser's absence. Kornheiser remains on-air at WTEM-AM. Kornheiser says he's called Storm to apologize for the remarks. "If you put a live microphone in front of somebody, eventually that person will say something wrong," Kornheiser said on his radio show Tuesday (Feb. 23). "This was one of the times I said something wrong." According to ESPN, Storm declined to comment.

* Former "98.1 The Bull" WBUL, Lexington, KY, personality "Dusty Dan" pleads guilty to child porn charges. Roy Daniel Baldridge, aka "Dusty Dan" on-air, changed his plea from not guilty of four charges, to guilty of two counts of possessing matter portraying the sexual performance of a minor. The other two charges were dropped in a plea deal. According to "LEX 18" WLEX-TV, a sentence of five years on each count was recommended by prosecutors. Baldridge is scheduled to be sentenced April 9. Police say that they found 500 images on Baldridge's home computer, and court records reveal the most explicit images showed boys engaged in various sexual activities. One of the images was of a boy on a beach. While not pornographic, officials say the picture may be connected to Baldridge's former job at "The Bull." He was fired by the station after his October arrest. That resulted from an investigation that followed a reported robbery at his home involving a weapon previously reported stolen by someone else. Police later said they had seized a hard drive and computer and found more "incriminating evidence" against Baldridge.

* Rush Limbaugh remains Number One in Talk Radio, says the influential trade magazine "Talkers." Despite the recent hoopla about Limbaugh being supplanted by Glenn Beck as the most influential broadcaster in America, Limbaugh remains at the top of "Talkers" 2010 "Heavy Hundred" listing. Beck is #3. Not only does Limbaugh beat Beck, but also does Sean Hannity at #2. The full listing is available from "Talkers," a trade publication serving the talk media industries in America. The New York Daily News reports on the "Heavy Hundred," saying, "The top rungs of the list also confirm something that #2 talker, Sean Hannity, said on the eve of the 2008 Presidential election." At the time, Hannity said, "I don't think it would be good for the country if Barack Obama is elected President. But I have to say it would be great for talk radio." According to the Daily News, "sixteen months later, the debate continues over Hannity's first point. There's no question he was right about the second one, because having a 'bad guy' in the White House has sent a surge of electricity through the talk radio world." Their published report notes that the top four talkers — Limbaugh, Hannity, Beck and Michael Savage — "have all been non-stop, full-time critics of pretty much everything about Obama except his shoelaces and his toothpaste." Rounding out "Talkers" top ten are: 5-Dr. Laura Schlessinger; 6-Laura Ingraham; 7-Dave Ramsey; 8-Mark Levin; 9-Lou Dobbs; and, 10-Thom Hartnann. "Talkers" says the list is assembled "with input from industry leaders" and reflects the "Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America."

* Peconic Public Broadcasting reaches a deal to buy Long Island's noncommercial WLIU, Southampton, NY. Peconic is the group formed to save WLIU. The deal reached with Long Island University is to purchase the station for $850,000. Peconic will move the station's studios from the SUNY Stony Brook-Southampton campus in the next few days. Peconic made a $158,000 down payment on the station Monday (Feb. 23), reports the Southampton Press. The balance is due by June 30. LIU announced last year that it would close the station if no buyer was found, prompting a group of area residents to band together to raise funds backing the station management in purchasing the station.

* New Generation Programming is set to launch their new Hot AC format Friday (Feb. 26). Programming President Chuck Geiger says the airstaff of the new Hot AC format features Athena in mornings, Mike Vincent middays, Party Shark in afternoons and Powers doing nights. As we reported earlier this month, the New Generation Programming services are designed for economically challenged small and medium-market radio. The new Hot AC format joins their Mainstream Country and Top 40 which launched earlier this month. More formats will be added in the near future.

* Marketron and Ando Media are integrating their respective offerings for online radio sales and spot presentation. The two companies announce the integration of Marketron's Revenue Builder with Ando Media’s Internet radio ad management and serving platform, Ad Injector. Revenue Builder is a multi-media sales app. The partnership enables broadcasters to schedule and deliver Internet radio advertising in addition to their terrestrial radio commercials through a tightly integrated solution. “The integration of Marketron Revenue Builder with Ando Media’s Ad Injector platform represents a key advancement in Radio’s Internet sales efforts,” says Marketron CEO Steve Minisini. “Marketron Revenue Builder delivers new top-line revenue growth to our customers by giving them a powerful sales application and critical insight into their Internet business strategies. Ando Media is a crucial player in the Internet radio world, and forging this partnership was an essential step in achieving our goals.”

* TargetSpot will serve audio advertising to Slacker Radio's mobile applications. That includes apps for the iPhone, Android and BlackBerry smartphones. "We believe mobile audio will become one of fastest growing segments in digital advertising," says Eyal Goldwerger, CEO of TargetSpot. "Google and Apple have made significant investments in mobile display advertising and TargetSpot is committed to bringing to the market the final major missing component — mobile audio ads. Our unique ability to effectively target mobile consumers will be of great value to advertisers."

* Ivy Elam is promoted from GSM to President & Market Manager for Clear Channel's Augusta, GA, cluster. Elam joined the company in 2002, and was promoted to GSM for the seven-station Augusta group in 2009. "Ivy has earned the opportunity to lead our Augusta radio cluster through her successful stewardship of our sales operation," says Southeast and West Operations SVP Dave Crowl. "As GSM, Ivy created a positive, results-driven environment in which everyone on her team could succeed. She leads by example, and is very active in the community, with our customers and most importantly, with her staff." Elam adds, "Augusta is my hometown. I am thankful and humbled by the opportunity that Dave Crowl and George Toulas have given me to lead the Augusta cluster and drive the future growth of our properties. I am thrilled to lead our group of talented professionals at Clear Channel Radio Augusta. We have an outstanding team in place and I look forward to utilizing all the resources that Clear Channel has to offer."

* Salem Communications co-founder Stuart Epperson signs a new contract as Chairman; takes a pay cut. Epperson's new one-year deal calls for a reduction in base salary from $345,000 to $250,000. The new deal is effective July 1. The Salem Chairman will also be elegible for a merit bonus to be determined by Salem's Board of Directors, as well as family health benefits, a car allowance, life insurance, and payment of regulatory fees for stock option exercises. Epperson previously took a salary reduction from $537,000. He co-founded Salem with brother-in-law Ed Atsinger who serves as CEO.

* New Arbitron President & CEO William Kerr resigns from the Board of Directors of Meredith Corp., as of March 5. "This decision comes with very mixed feelings and after a great deal of consideration," says Kerr, citing Arbitron's request that he limit outside Board commitments. "I have been honored by the opportunity to work for Meredith and serve on its Board, and I hope I have contributed a bit to its success." Kerr joined Meredith in 1991 as President of the Magazine Group. He served as Meredith's Chairman and CEO from 1998 to 2006 and as Chairman until earlier this year. The Meredith Board elected Stephen Lacy Chairman and CEO and Dianna (Mell) Meredith Frazier Vice Chairman effective February 1, 2010. "I would like to thank Bill for his tremendous contributions to Meredith over the last 20 years," says Lacy. "His legacy and accomplishments speak for themselves, and his Board counsel will be missed." Earlier this week, we reported that Kerr resigned from the Board of Directors of Principal Financial Group.

* RAB President & CEO Jeff Haley is appointed to the Board of Directors of Avenue Right. Avenue Right provides Web-based software that streamlines the media buying process for small to mid-size ad agencies. As President & CEO of RAB, Haley has in-depth knowledge of the benefits of radio as a medium for local advertising and the common goal of making radio advertising easier to buy. Haley's two-year appointment to the Avenue Right Board is effective February 19. Haley also serves on the Ad Council's Board of Directors, and is a member of the Arbitron Radio Advisory Council.

* Katz Media Group promotes Joe Brewer to SVP Chief Information Officer from SVP IT Services. Brewer will now be responsible for the development and execution of strategic IT solutions for Katz employees, client stations and agency customers, as well as overseeing the day-to-day operations of IT Services. "Joe's strong leadership of the IT Services department shows his commitment to providing superior technology services to our company and the industry," says EVP Strategic Planning and IT Services Gerry Boehme. "He has expanded and enhanced our offerings, while increasing our efficiency and developing additional revenue streams." Adds Brewer, "Technology continues to play an increasingly important role in improving our current business and expanding our opportunities. We've created an infrastructure that helps our employees work smarter and more efficiently from virtually any location. We also have created applications and business solutions for stations, agencies and advertisers that bring more value to our customers and more revenue to our clients."

* Former NAB Board Chairman and Wood Broadcasting founder Bill Schroeder dies at the age of 96. Schroeder chaired the NAB Board in 1964-65. He was also a member of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and onetime MAB chairman. Schroeder began his career in radio sales in Michigan, where he became WOOD-AM's VP & GM in 1950. After the station purchased WOOD-TV, he managed both stations, later adding WOOD-FM it began. He was elected to chair the NAB Board in 1964 and 1965 and formed Wood Broadcasting in 1972, purchasing WOOD-AM & FM. He also continued to run WOOD-TV and later served as president of Time-Life's broadcast division. After retiring from WOOD-TV, he continued as Wood Broadcasting President until the stations were sold in 1984.

* The deadline for Sirius XM to farm out some of its channels is again extended by the FCC. When Sirius and XM sought the okay to merge, one of the conditions established was that the merged satcaster set aside 4% of its channel capacity to be programmed or leased by “eligible entities.” Several delays have already been awarded by the FCC while the agency attempts to come up with implementation guidelines. Now, the Commission again extends the deadline, this time until May 25, 2010. The FCC notes that while decisions on this matter are imminent, the guidelines are still not in place.

* Contemporary Christian K-LOVE Radio Network expands into San Francisco. K-LOVE is now heard on KLVS-FM, licensed to Stockton, CA, the former Regional Mexican KSTN-FM. The signal covers the San Francisco Bay area including San Jose and Stockton-Modesto, and also reaches into the Sacramento market. "God has blessed us with an amazing opportunity to reach this major market, on 107.3 FM, most of which is not currently being served with this format," says Programming VP Chuck Pryor . Chief Creative Officer David Pierce adds, "Reaching from the Golden Gate to the foothills of the Sierra's allows us to impact communities and lives in a way that was not possible before going on 107.3 FM. Needless to say we're excited about bringing something new to the Bay Area & Northern California." K-LOVE currently airs in Chicago, Phoenix, Denver, Portland, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, Cincinnati, Kansas City, San Antonio, Milwaukee, Indianapolis and Norfolk.

* The FCC announces a tentative agenda for the Commission's March 16 Open Meeting. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski says items on the tentative agenda include the National Broadband Plan Presentation, with Commission staff presenting the National Broadband Plan; and the Broadband Mission Statement. The Commission will vote on a Broadband Mission Statement, containing goals for U.S. broadband policy. Topics selected for FCC open meeting agendas are posted on the Commission’s Website approximately three weeks prior to the each monthly meeting. The Commission also issues a public notice of the “Commission Meeting Agenda” one week before the meeting and announces at that time the items that are scheduled for the agenda.

* Entercom reports fourth quarter net revenues were down 8%; adjusted net income decreased 12%. Net revenues for the quarter decreased to $96.0 million, while station expenses decreased 5% to $61.5 million. Station operating income was down 12% to $34.5 million. EBITDA fell 15% to $30.0 million. Net income per share increased to $0.68, but adjusted net income per share decreased 12% to $0.29. For the full year, net revenues dropped 15% to $372.4 million and station expenses decreased 8% to $252.1 million. Station operating income decreased 27% to $120.4 million. EBITDA fell by 29% to $102.7 million. Net income per share increased to $0.16; adjusted net income per share decreased 31% to $0.88. “Entercom posted strong sequential improvement during the fourth quarter, ending the year with positive revenue and operating cash flow growth for the month of December," says Entercom President & CEO David Field. "Business conditions improved significantly during the fourth quarter and this positive trend has accelerated into the first two months of 2010. Furthermore, despite the terribly challenging conditions of 2009, we have fulfilled our stated goal of emerging from the recession with enhanced capabilities, a stronger competitive position and an improved business model. For the year 2009, Entercom generated $70 million of free cash flow, reduced our net debt by over $100 million, trimmed expenses by 8%, and yet continued to enhance our capabilities in critical areas, such as digital, on-line and on-air content, and business development. We also achieved significant growth in station ratings and dramatic improvement in key digital metrics on our stations’ Websites." Looking ahead, Field adds, "The outlook for 2010 has brightened, bolstered by accelerating advertiser demand and improvement in radio’s relative value proposition in comparison to other media and we believe we are well positioned to capitalize on this rebound.” More from Entercom...

* Advertising spending on local media is not expected to grow until 2012, according to BIA/Kelsey. In a new U.S. Local Media Forecast, released Monday (Feb. 22), BIA/Kelsey says that by 2014, the U.S. local advertising market will reach $144.9 billion, a modest compound annual growth rate of 2.2% from 2009. While ad spending in local media represents 55% of all advertising spending, the medium dipped from a high of $156.3 billion in 2008 to $130.2 billion in 2009. In 2010, spending is expected to decrease slightly to $128.9 billion and then remain virtually flat in 2011 before climbing to $134.1 billion in 2012. "Even with improvements in the overall economy, we do not anticipate a rapid recovery among traditional media over the forecast period, because we believe the structural change in the local media industry has accelerated," says BIA/Kelsey President Neal Polachek. Even as local media struggles to regain momentum, the shift to digital continues. In 2008, digital represented 10% of local ad spending. By 2014, digital will make up a quarter of the total local media dollars. Spending on traditional media is forecast to decline from $115 billion in 2009 to $108.2 billion in 2014. At the same time, spending on online/interactive will grow from $15.2 billion to $36.7 billion, a compound annual growth rate of 19.3%.

* Tiger Woods' apology gave ESPNRadio.com the largest concurrent streaming audience for a single event ever. Some 85,000 listeners heard his apology and statement via the ESPNRadio Website with another 5,000 listening through the ESPNRadio app on iPhone and iPod Touch mobile devices. The ESPNRadio.com coverage also generated over 750,000 page views, and the site's new Super Stream media player generated over 350,000 listener sessions for the day, according to Ando Media and Omniture.

* There are several programming changes At Clear Channel San Francisco, as two Program Directors exit. Rhythmic CHR KMEL PD Stacy Cunningham and Talk KKGN-AM PD John Scott are out. Cluster Operations Manager Don Parker adds KMEL PD duties. Urban AC KISQ Assistant PD & Music Director Ricci Filiar is upped to PD for KISQ, KKGN-AM and Talk KNEW-AM. Before joining Clear Channel San Francisco three months ago, Parker was PD of crosstown Rhythmic CHR KNGY-FM.

* Citadel is preparing to flip "LiteRock 105.9" WLTI, Syracuse, NY, to "105.9 The Big Talker." The flip is set for next week. The new Talk station will be anchored by a 4-7pm weekday local show hosted by Gary Nolan, and the syndicated morning show "Bob & Tom." Nolan returns to Syracuse where he was on the air in the 1990's. In recent years, Nolan has hosted an afternoon talk show in Columbia, MO. Also scheduled for "105.9 The Big Talker" are syndicated Stephanie Miller, Michael Smerconish, Dave Ramsey and Mark Levin. "Spoken word on FM is one of the fastest growing segments in radio right now and it's time Syracuse has a voice on FM for local and national issues," says Market Manager Dan Austin.

* Citadel is set to re-brand "ESPN Radio 1260" WNSS-AM, Syracuse, NY, to "The Score 1260." WNSS will increase the emphasis on local sports, expanding its local afternoon show "On The Block with Brent Axe" for an additional hour to 2-6pm daily. Weekdays 6-10am, WNSS will air "Imus In The Morning." National sports programs will come from Sporting News Radio. "The Score 1260" will continue to air Buffalo Bills football and Lemoyne College basketball, with plans to add expanded coverage of high school and college athletics, and local pro teams.

* "Smooth Jazz 96.1 The Bridge" KKXS, Redding, CA, will flip to ESPN Radio "XS Sports 96.1 FM," March 1. Results Radio Market Manager Beth Tappan tells listeners of the format change on the station's Website. "This marks the final week of broadcast for the smooth jazz format on 96.1 FM. Effective Monday March 1, this frequency will be the home of the new XS Sports 96.1 FM featuring the live ESPN Radio lineup and San Francisco Giants baseball. We know this will be disappointing news for the fans of smooth jazz and 96.1 The Bridge. Since 2005 the station format has enjoyed a loyal following and we thank you for your listenership. The loss of SF Giants baseball on local radio a couple years ago has been covered by press and a continual subject of message boards and public discussion. Results Radio believes that a larger audience will be served by creating a sports station on FM that carries both Giants baseball and the world’s #1 sports brand ESPN. If you would like to comment on our changes, we welcome it."

* Two Genesis Communications stations — WHBO-AM & WMGG-AM — will air Yankees home games in Tampa. "ESPN AM 1040" WHBO and "Bay Biz AM 1470" WMGG will air all 72 of the New York Yankees home games, excluding Tampa Rays games, beginning with the April 7 Yankees home opener. "The World Champion Yankees have always had a large fan base in the Tampa Bay area and we are excited to be able to provide this extensive coverage on both 1040 and 1470," says VP of Programming Allan Davis. "The night coverage for ESPN 1040 covers most of the Tampa Bay area. The addition of Bay Biz 1470 fills in the northern portion of the area." All broadcasts will include the Yankees radio network pre- and post-game shows, plus WMGG will also carry Michael Kay's "New York Baseball Tonight" from 6-7pm every night. Kay is the network voice of the Yankees. Genesis CEO Bruce Maduri says, "The Yankees began training in Tampa in 1996, but the ties to the area with the Steinbrenner's have been much longer. Add to that the northeast transplants and the result is a Yankee Nation here in Tampa Bay. We have been receiving requests for years to carry Yankee games. That day has now been realized."

* AWRT announces the winners of the 2010 Gracie Awards. American Women in Radio & Television tell us the radio awards for outstanding programming by, for, and about women go to: CBS Radio News' Cami McCormick for Outstanding Reporter/Correspondent; Barbara Walters for Outstanding Talk Show/Entertainment/Information for "Here's Barbara" on Sirius XM; Gayle King for Outstanding Host/Entertainment/Information for The Gayle King Show on Sirius XM's Oprah Radio. "The power of this year's Gracie Award winners showcase how vital a role women in the industry continue to have," 2010 AWRT Chair Sylvia Strobel said. "We look forward to honoring these deserving programs and individuals. We're also delighted to have Dove and the Campaign for Real Beauty return as the Gracies’ 2010 title sponsor." NPR receives the awards for Outstanding Podcast with Culturetopia and for Outstanding Series with "Drug Addiction and Misery Increase in Afghanistan," along with honors for Outstanding Documentary for "The Science of Spirituality." Other winners include CBS Evening News With Katie Couric, for coverage of the death of Walter Cronkite, and Radio Free Asia for Outstanding Website – News for Half the Xinjiang Sky. Local, public, and student award winners are to be announced later this week. The Gracies will be presented at AWRT's annual awards gala, May 25 at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles.

* Dr. Barry Blesser will deliver the opening keynote speech at the NAB Broadcast Engineering Conference. Blesser, digital audio pioneer, director of engineering for 25-Seven Systems and contributing columnist for Radio World Engineering Extra magazine, will keynote the conference set for April 11 at the 2010 NAB Show. Blesser, who has served as a technical and management consultant for the past 40 years to more than 50 high-tech companies, will provide insight on the broadcast engineering profession and its next generation of leaders. "Dr. Barry Blesser is one of the true original pioneers in digital audio technology," says NAB SVP of Science and Technology Lynn Claudy. "As leading broadcast engineers, media professionals and technicians from around the world gather for the NAB Show's engineering conference this spring, we look forward to hearing Dr. Blesser's insightful thoughts on the future of the broadcast engineering profession." As a former professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a founder of digital audio, Blesser has spent his four decade career working at the junction of audio, acoustics, perception and cognitive psychology. From the start of his academic career at MIT in 1969, Blesser was a leading pioneer of digitized audio. He developed the first commercial digital reverberation system for the German company Elektro-Mess-Technik (EMT), helped found Lexicon and has developed audio products for Orban and many others. Blesser is one of the founders and currently serves as director of engineering at 25-Seven Systems, which specializes in audio technologies for more efficient and profitable radio operations.

* Bruce Williams is ending his long-running syndicated nightly talk show, March 5. In an email to affiliates, the host of "The Bruce Williams Show" says, "After a great deal of thought, I have concluded, as has been said many times, 'all things come to an end,' and this is true for me of my radio career. As a consequence, it is my painful chore to announce with much regret that March 5th will be my last Network broadcast. There have been enormous changes in our industry in the past three-and-a-half decades. Those of you who have been in the business for a long period of time know full well many of the things to which I allude. Those of you running independent stations are more aware then anyone of the challenges you face. The last several years have been very difficult economically for most. There’s no question that there will be continued innovations in this enterprise and the choices are clear, adjust or leave. You may rest assured that this was not a decision made lightly. I truly appreciate the difficulties it will impose on many of you. If it would be helpful, I will do my best to provide some older shows, which you may continue to use at no cost and without any commercial obligations." There's no mention yet of Williams' plans on his Website.

* Syndicated radio host Rickey Smiley loses a round in federal court. RadioSyndicationTalk.com reports Smiley may have defamed an airport security guard by calling him gay on his show, a federal judge has ruled. U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor refused to dismiss the guard’s defamation claims against the Dallas radio personality, according to Courthouse News Service. The guard claims Smiley made the remark at the airport, and again on the air, after the guard asked to take a photo of himself with Smiley at Love Field. Not long after, Smiley spoke of the “the gay security guard” at Dallas Love Field Airport on his show airing on local affiliate "97.9 The Beat" KBFB, Dallas. According to the ruling, the broadcast included “a poem about ‘Henry, Henry’ who ’sure act[s] gay,’ off-color humor about ‘Henry’s’ duties in conducting personal searches, an admonition to ‘Henry’ to stop taking pictures, and a laughing ‘Sorry, Henry!’” Smiley and Radio One, owner of KBFB, moved to dismiss the defamation claim, saying the show was not defamatory because it was satire and could not be taken as fact. Judge O’Connor disagreed with the satire argument, ruling that a reasonable person could take Smiley’s comments at face value and assume Robinson was gay.” He added that the broadcast could be considered defamatory because, in Texas, calling someone homosexual “imputes the crime of sodomy.”

* Premiere Radio Networks names John Manzo as "Randi Rhodes Show" Program Director & Executive Producer. The March 1 start date will mark a reunion for Manzo and Rhodes. Manzo previously programmed and produced Rhodes' radio show at Air America. He will be based in Washington DC, the broadcast home of "The Randi Rhodes Show." Says Manzo, "I love great talk radio and Randi is one of the most talented personalities in the industry. It's exciting to be working together again and I can't wait to get started." PRN Programming SVP Jennifer Leimgruber tells us, "John's ability to bring out the best in talent and his dedication to content have earned him many years of success as a programmer and producer. We couldn't be happier to welcome him to the Premiere family." Manzo is a 20-year veteran of local and national radio talk programming, producing and operations.

* Arbitron is expanding its Arbitron Radio Advisory Council, adding new positions and "enhancements." The expansion includes new representatives for Network Radio, Digital Radio and Public Radio, as well as expanded representation for diary markets, and Urban and Spanish Language broadcasters. Also planned are regular joint sessions with Arbitron's Advertiser & Agency Council. Arbitron says that it's adding new council representatives "to reflect a more diverse group of customers and the changing radio landscape." The new additions include one seat each added for Network Radio, Digital Radio, and Public Radio; four additional slots for diary markets to place greater focus on mid-sized and smaller markets; and Urban and Spanish Language representatives expanded from one to two seats each. Arbitron also plans several enhancements intended to make the meetings more productive. Dedicated tracks for both PPM and Diary markets are being added to concentrate on issues and priorities specific to the needs of customers in those markets. There will be regular joint sessions between the Radio and Agency & Advertiser Councils to encourage dialogue between buyers and sellers. Also, the "enhancements" include more open, interactive and positive dialogue centered on improving communication and enhancing industry partnership. "The enhancements that we are making to the Radio Advisory Council reflect the evolving nature of the media industry," says Arbitron President & CEO William Kerr. "The representatives serve as valuable customer advocates and their input helps Arbitron align our plans with industry priorities. I look forward to our new meeting format, where I hope to engage in an open, two-way dialogue that will move the industry forward." All current and recently-elected members of the Advisory Council will continue with their terms and Arbitron is inviting respected industry representatives to fill the newly created seats. The Spring 2010 Radio Advisory Council meeting will be held May 11-12 in Annapolis, MD. The Fall 2010 dates and venue are now being planned. More from Arbitron...

* Four more House Democrats voice their opposition to the Performance Rights Act, says the NAB. The NAB says the growing Congressional opposition comes as the RIAA continues to lobby in support of legislation that would require local radio stations to pay an additional fee for every song aired free to listeners — what the NAB calls a "performance tax." Reps. Travis Childers (MS-1), Mike McMahon (NY-13), Bill Owens (NY-23), and Mark Schauer (MI-7) are the newest co-sponsors of the Local Radio Freedom Act, a bipartisan resolution now supported by 256 House lawmakers and 27 U.S. Senators, which expressly opposes "any new performance fee, tax, royalty or other charge" on local radio stations for music aired free to listeners. "We're pleased that the bipartisan Congressional opposition to an RIAA tax on free radio continues to grow," says NAB EVP Dennis Wharton. "Local radio provides an unparalleled promotional platform for the record labels and performing artists." Wharton adds, "We're hopeful that Congress will ultimately reject RIAA's reckless campaign against America's hometown radio stations."

* Radio is on the rebound, although it still has a way to go — RAB: 2009 end "a tremendous lead-in to 2010." Crain's New York Business sees the RAB'S Q4 and full-year 2009 radio revenue report, released Friday (Feb. 19), as a sure sign that radio is finally recovering. Radio advertising revenue fell 8% in the fourth quarter of 2009, to $4.3 billion. The 8% drop compared to the fourth quarter of 2008 is cause for celebration because it's so much better than the steep double-digit declines in the first half of the year. The industry's ad revenue slide began to slow in the third quarter. “The green shoots that we saw earlier have fully taken root,” says RAB President & CEO Jeff Haley. "In 2009, radio went from -25% in May to flat in December — a tremendous lead-in to 2010." Total radio ad revenue fell 18% for all of 2009, to $16 billion. "Radio has been hammered mercilessly for the past two years by a combination of the poor economy, shifts in audience listening habits and the migration of ad dollars to the Web," reports Crains. The latest numbers showed two other promising trends. Automotive advertising, once the bread and butter of local radio, made a comeback in the fourth quarter, growing 9% to $341 million and retaking its place as the industry's top category. And digital ad revenue from radio station Web sites spiked 15% in the fourth quarter to an all-time high of $133 million. For the year, digital was up 13%, to $480 million. The grocery/convenience/liquor stores categories increased by 12% in Q4 to $261.4 million. Financial services spending increased 5% to $252.8 million, while concerts/theaters/movies were up 4% to $122.5 million. "Key radio categories such as automotive, grocery, and financial Services all posted increases in Q4 spending, and communications and restaurants were at 90% and 95% of Q4 '08 comps, respectively," says Haley. "At the same time, advertisers' increasing interest in radio's digital capabilities generated the biggest gain of any quarter since we began breaking this segment out separately — up 15%. Combined, these factors brought Q4 revenue totals to 92% of same period last year."

* MySpace tries one more shot at salvation — “Discovery.” The onetime social networking leader, which has steadily declined, is launching a new slogan, and product strategy: “Discover and be Discovered.” TechCrunch reports confirming that from multiple sources. This will be their differentiating factor from Facebook, execs told employees at an all hands meeting called in the wake of the firing of CEO Owen Van Natta and the related promotions of Mike Jones and Jason Hirschhorn to co-presidents. The meeting, which was held in the courtyard of MySpace’s Los Angeles headquarters to accomodate 600 or employees, was also broadcast to other offices around the world. According to TechCrunch, the "meeting began, say sources, with a discussion of the drama around the company over the last several weeks. Parent company News Corp’s Digital Chief Jon Miller apparently didn’t mince words, saying that Van Natta wasn’t moving fast enough and that there was too much conflict among the executive team. Hirschhorn also denied rumors that he ever considered leaving the company, which is contrary to the statements of about a dozen sources who’ve said the opposite to us." Reportedly, Miller also reiterated News Corp.’s commitment to MySpace and outlined how the co-president structure will work. “They get along really well,” he reportedly said. Hirschhorn handles product vision, Jones handles execution.

* New Arbitron President & CEO William Kerr resigns from the Board of Directors of Principal Financial Group. He had been expected to take that action when he was named to his new Arbitron position last month after the sudden resignation of Michael Skarzynski. Kerr had been a member of the Principal Financial board since 2001. He was at Principal Life since 1995, and served as CEO of publisher and TV broadcast company Meredith Corp. from 1998-2006. He resigned as Meredith's Chairman and was succeeded earlier this month by CEO Steve Lacy.

* Ousted KSFO-AM, San Francisco, morning host Lee Rodgers confirms that he was fired without warning. As we reported February 18, it appeared Rodgers was "forced out" — because he never said goodbyes on his final show. Now, in a letter to his fans, he confirms that he didn't know his last show was his final one until it ended. At the time, KSFO said in a news release, "KSFO welcomes Brian Sussman to the KSFO Morning Show. After seven years as host of KSFO’s early evening program, Brian Sussman was named today [Feb. 18] as the new host of the station’s Morning Show. Brian succeeds morning host Lee Rodgers. 'This was a very natural transition,' according to KSFO Programming Vice President Jack Swanson. 'Although a lot of listeners were unaware, Lee had actually moved to Arizona many years ago and was broadcasting from his home. He later cut back his work schedule to only four days a week, which created the opportunity for Brian to become part of the show. We are grateful to Lee for his many contributions, and wish him many happy years in Arizona.'” However, in his email letter, Rodgers tells a very different story than a "very natural transition." Says Rodgers of his abrupt departure, "It was forced upon me, with no notice. While KSFO & KGO were and are profitable, Citadel Broadcasting, the parent company that owns ABC Radio is in bankruptcy. The top management of Citadel, led by a CEO named Farid Suleiman—widely regarded as the most incompetent executive in broadcasting—decided that I was making too much money after 25 years with ABC and fifteen as morning host on KSFO, taking no note of the fact that I've generated large sums of money for the company. I was seriously considering retirement at the end of my contract in early July, and I certainly wouldn't have left without saying goodbye. Instead, within one minute of the conclusion of last Thursday's show, I got the word that it HAD been my last one; cut with no notice, in violation of my contract." Saying "This is typical Citadel tactics," Rodgers adds, "Understand, please, that this course was not chosen by the local management of KSFO. Mickey Luckoff and Jack Swanson have been helpful throughout my long run in San Francisco. I WILL tell you, in all candor, that thanks to Mr. Suleiman's Citadel management, I could no longer proudly say that the company had never told me what to say or what not to say. There was an obvious cave-in to some ultra-left and pro-Muslim groups, making it unlikely that I would have ever renewed my contract with the company, anyway." TPMedia has posted Rodgers' full email here [Word].

* Facebook shuts down WFBL-AM, Syracuse, talk host Jon Alvarez's homage to the Austin suicide pilot. "In less than a day, Facebook, the social networking Website where Alvarez created the page, took it down and issued him a warning: He could lose Facebook privileges if he violated its policy again," reports the Syracuse Post-Standard. “The Joe ‘Take my pound of flesh’ Stack fan page” included the killer’s manifesto, which is an angry rant against big government, big business and the Catholic Church. It quickly drew about 40 fans, Alvarez said. He didn’t check it again until Friday morning, when he discovered the page had been shut down. “This guy was making a sacrifice to others who were having problems with the IRS,” Alvarez said. “We at least owed it to him to make note of his thoughts.” Two people died in the crash and fire, one of them Stack. A father of six, described as a devout Christian and Vietnam War veteran who worked for the IRS, is missing, according to news reports. Nearly 200 people work in the building Stack attacked. Facebook issues standard warnings for several kinds of postings. The warning to Alvarez said, “Among other things, pages that are hateful, threatening, or obscene are not allowed. We also take down pages that attack an individual or group.” Alvarez hosts a talk show weekdays on WFBL-AM. He devoted his Friday (Feb. 19) show to Stack’s plane crash.

* Former Triple-A "Live 100.5" WWMM-FM, Birmingham, makes the expected flip to a News-Talk format. Last week, we reported the change was expected "within the next six to 10 days." At the time, The Birmingham News reported the timetable for the change was confirmed February 14 by "a source at owner Citadel Broadcasting," although the published report also said Citadel Birmingham Operations Manager Ryan Haney declined comment. As expected, WWMM picks up the "Alabama's Big Talker" programming of sister WAPI-AM, with the FM becoming "NewsTalk 100 WAPI-FM." The former "Live 100.5" had already ousted its live hosts in advance of the flip when last week's report came out. A move to save the former format was launched with a Facebook group, but apparently Citadel was not impressed. The new FM News-Talk station already has its own Facebook group, "Newstalk One-Hundred Wapi." They add "Fox 6" WBRC-TV reporter, investment broker, and Alabama Republican Party strategist Leland Whaley for middays.

* Two simulcasting Hudson Valley New York AM stations drop Radio Disney for True Oldies. WEOK, Poughkeepsie, and WALL, Middletown, NY, are going with Scott Shannon's True Oldies Channel as of noon, Monday (Feb. 22) — after stunting with a loop of "Surfin' Bird" by The Trashmen. The simulcasting stations ditched Radio Disney a day earlier, after close to five years. The duo was among the few Radio Disney stations not owned by the Walt Disney Company. Some reports have identified WEOK and WALL as Aurora Communications stations. Aurora sold them to Cumulus in October 2001, taking them over 11 months later. As Cumulus stations they are in the area of newly-named Northeast Regional VP Chuck Bortnick. It is not known if the format flip had anything to do with the naming of Bortnick to oversight of the region.

* Baltimore Orioles radio voice Joe Angel confirms that he will return to that role in 2010. Angel, who has been in the role for the past six seasons, confirmed his return Sunday (Feb. 21) to the Baltimore Sun. "This is where I want to be," Angel said in a telephone interview. "I've left Baltimore twice and come back twice, so this obviously is where I want to be. I'm ready to go." During the past month, Angel was under consideration for a similar role with the Los Angeles Angels, who are searching for a replacement for the late Rory Markas. According to the Sun, Fred Manfra is expected to be back as Angel's partner, though the Orioles have yet to make an official announcement.

* Glenn Beck has now supplanted Rush Limbaugh as the most influential broadcaster in America. Jonathan Alter writing for Newsweek says of Beck, "He's the one the tea-party movement looks to. Beck wowed the Conservative Political Action Committee (CPAC) crowd Feb. 20 with his attack on progressivism, which he said must be 'eradicated.'" Beck told the crowd, "Progressivism is the cancer in America and it's eating our Constitution." Alter says, "Now that Beck has given his marching orders, expect to hear all the Fox Puppets echoing him. The goal is to discredit 'progressivism' as they did 'liberalism.'" Beck told CPAC, "The majority does not rule in America. But the minority shouldn't hijack it."

* Glenn Beck for President? A radio and TV talker in the White House? Or at least on the road to try to get there? "That was one heck of a stem-winder of a keynote address delivered [Feb. 20] by Glenn Beck at the Conservative Political Action Conference" — writes the Washington Examiner's Mark Tapscott — "so powerful that somebody out there right now is probably trying to figure out a way to get a grassroots presidential draft movement organized." Tapscott says that in the age of instant celebrity, it could happen, much as former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's meteoric rise during her failed campaign with Sen. John McCain in the 2008 presidential race. Palin's continuing celebrityhood has been driven in no small part by the obsessive hate on the Left for her. They just can't stop talking about how terrible they think she is. In any case, says Tapscott, Beck's address certainly confirmed him as a front-rank figure in the conservative movement. But he thinks "it will help define Beck as one of the narrative setters for the movement, not as a candidate. But of course, politics is the most unpredictable of endeavours, so who knows." The Examiner also offers video of Beck's CPAC speech here ... in case you missed it ... as most of us did.

* Mike O'Meara: "With this Web radio gig, who needs FM?" The former "106.7 Washington's Talk Superstation" WJFK-FM host lost his job at the DC CBS Radio station last year in the format flip to Sports Talk "The Fan." But he's back with a reconstruction of his old show by way of a daily podcast. "The Mike O'Meara Show" includes familiar voices Robb Spewak and news guy Buzz Burbank (real name: Michael J. Elston). New to the lineup is Oscar Santana (or Oscar Zeballos), who also lost his job at WJFK-FM when the format flip occurred. O'Meara was a fixture on the Washington DC airwaves for about 25 years on shows that were nationally syndicated. The Washington Post's Mike Musgrove writes, "For most of O'Meara's on-air career, losing a radio show would have meant a job hunt and a move to a different market. But, of course, that was before the age of the Interweb. Rather than part ways, the guys decided to stick together and make a go of it online. Since December, there have been fresh episodes of the hour-long podcast every day from Monday to Friday; it's sort of a boiled-down version of the former, four-hour show." O'Meara tells Musgrove, "It's going better than I ever would have dreamed." He's already paid off the show's start-up costs, thanks to a couple of local sponsors buying promotional consideration on the show and its Website. O'Meara's regular listeners know that he wouldn't have chosen to be this sort of Internet pioneer, says Musgrove. He has sometimes bawled in mock-hysteria on the show about the turn his career has taken. But the young enterprise appears to have some juice: The podcast regularly cracks the "top 20" list of comedy programs at iTunes and is up to an average of 15,000 downloads a day. About 40% of those downloads are in the Washington area, though fans around the world are tuning in. More from the Washington Post...

* The RAB says radio revenues were down 18% in 2009, as RAB releases its full-year revenue report. Overall radio revenue was down to $16 billion for the year. Breaking it down, local was down 20% to $10.8 billion, national declined 19% to $2.4 billion, network dropped 9% to $1 billion, and off-air revenue declined 9% to $1.3 billion. The only area that showed an increase for the year was digital — increasing 13% to $480 million. However, radio revenue results for the fourth quarter confirmed encouraging signs that were seen in the second and third quarters, as the improvement continued through the end of the year. For Q4 2009, the RAB reports revenues were off 8% overall, with local down 10% to $2.9 billion; national down by 10% to $658 million; network down by 5% to $283 million; and off-air declined by 3% to $344 million. Digital was up 15% to $133 million for the fourth quarter. Says RAB President & CEO Jeff Haley, "The green shoots that we saw earlier have fully taken root. In 2009, radio went from -25 percent in May to flat in December — a tremendous lead-in to 2010." Automotive spending was up 9% percent in the fourth quarter to $341 million, once again becoming the top spending category in local and national advertising. The grocery/convenience/liquor stores categories increased by 12% in Q4 to $261.4 million. Financial services spending increased 5% to $252.8 million, while concerts/theaters/movies were up 4% to $122.5 million. "Key radio categories such as automotive, grocery, and financial Services all posted increases in Q4 spending, and communications and restaurants were at 90 percent and 95 percent of Q4 '08 comps, respectively," says Haley. "At the same time, advertisers' increasing interest in radio's digital capabilities generated the biggest gain of any quarter since we began breaking this segment out separately — up 15%. Combined, these factors brought Q4 revenue totals to 92 percent of same period last year."

* CBS Corp. fourth quarter revenues were pretty much flat — radio was down 12% to $322.2 million. The overall CBS Corp. revenue was down less than 1% at $3.5 billion. That compares with $3.53 billion for Q4 2008. The company says that higher national ad sales, growth in affiliate and subscription fees, and improvement in the local television marketplace, were offset by lower radio, outdoor and political advertising sales. CBS CEO Leslie Moonves says that even though radio was down for the fourth quarter of 2009, radio is now looking up. "Local radio stations are pacing well above last year's first quarter." For the full year, radio was down 21% to $1.22 billion from $1.54 billion. CBS Corp. revenues were down 7% for the full year, to $13 billion. Local broadcasting revenues decreased 8% to $680 million, from $735.8 million reflecting lower radio and political ad sales. Revenues for CBS Television stations fell 3% to $358.2 million from $369.3 million, and CBS Radio revenues decreased 12% to $322.2 million from $366.7 million. "Throughout the past year, Leslie and his team did all the right things to position CBS for a vibrant future, and the results we're reporting today speak to our momentum," says Executive Chairman Sumner Redstone. "We've managed through the year with financial prudence, while at the same time continuing to invest in our top-quality content businesses and maintain our industry-leading position. I'm very excited about all that we can achieve going forward."

* Arbitron's fourth quarter net income was up — to $12.6 million from $3.4 million for Q4 2008. That fourth quarter 2009 net income includes a one-time tax benefit of $4.7 million, or $0.17 per share (diluted), related to a favorable state tax ruling received by Arbitron during the quarter. Net income in the quarter was also impacted by a $1.3 million pre-tax, non-cash charge, or $0.03 per share (diluted), related to a partial reversal of insurance reimbursement accruals that were recorded in 2008 and 2009. Net income for the full year 2009 increased 13.4% to $42.2 million compared with $37.2 million in 2008. Excluding the fourth quarter tax benefit, earnings per share (diluted) for the fourth quarter and full year 2009 would have been $0.30 and $1.41, respectively. Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $101.5 million, an increase of 8.5% over revenue of $93.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2008. For the full year ended December 31, 2009, revenue was $385.0 million, an increase of 4.4% over revenue of $368.8 million for the same period in 2008. "While the continued PPM commercialization contributed significantly to revenue growth, the increase in PPM revenue was offset, to an extent, by the impact of the radio industry's economic and business challenges," reports Arbitron. Says President & CEO William Kerr, "In 2009, we commercialized the Portable People Meter ratings service in 19 new markets, for a total of 33 markets by year-end. We have also continued our significant focus on the needs of the radio customers in diary markets by working to enhance the quality and utility of our diary-based ratings services. We established Arbitron's relevance in new markets through our efforts to leverage our Portable People Meter technology and panels in our cross platform and away-from-home television services." Looking ahead, Kerr says, "Our priorities for 2010 are straightforward. We will work to complete the planned commercialization of our PPM ratings service while continuing our programs designed to improve key sample quality metrics, our efforts toward Media Rating Council accreditation, and our work toward resolving responsibly the remaining concerns of certain customers and governmental entities. We also intend to strengthen and defend our core radio service, while, at the same time, leveraging the important assets we have in our PPM technology and panel. We will use these assets to further explore new lines of business such as our away-from-home television service and our cross platform measurement service."

* FCC Commissioner Michael Copps says, "Reform has clearly come to the FCC." The FCC proposes "revisions to its rules as part of its larger effort to reform and transform the agency into a model of excellence in government," says an FCC news release — available here. In two notices of proposed rulemaking approved by the Commission, the FCC seeks public comment on revisions to rules governing Commission practice and procedure, and its “ex parte” rules dealing with communications between stakeholders and decision-makers at the agency. FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski says, "These two Notices propose reforms that should make the Commission’s procedural rules more effective and fairer." Proposed tweaks to Commission processes include improving case management using electronic filing and allowing staff to terminate inactive dockets and serve parties electronically; allowing staff to dismiss defective or repetitious reconsideration petitions; clarifying that the Commission can, on its own motion within 30 days of public notice, modify a decision rather than just set it aside or vacate it; clarifying that a deadline that lands on a weekend or holiday requires action to be taken by the next business day; and adopting a default effective date for new rules when an effective date was not specified in the relevant rulemaking orders. Also, the Commission proposed amending the ex parte rules to require summaries of every oral ex parte presentation to be filed, rather than just when something is raised for the first time; require notices summarizing all data and arguments presented; establish a preference for electronic filing of all ex parte notices; and require faster electronic filing, within four hours, of ex parte presentation notices made during the "Sunshine Period" before a public meeting. The Commission is also asking for comment on changes to the "Sunshine Period"'s prohibition on ex parte presentations and timing; whether to adopt more stringent ownership disclosure requirements in filings; changes in penalties for ex parte violations; and how the ex parte rules should apply in the context of new media, such as blog postings.

* Former St. Louis morning show producer Ryan Huff is sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for child porn. Ryan, 25, who was a producer at KFNS-AM, was sentenced for production, enticement, receipt and possession of child pornography, according to the U.S. attorney's office. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that prosecutors say he met a 12-year-old girl online and persuaded her and her 13-year-old friend to send him nude pictures. Huff admitted having sex with the younger girl and fondling the older girl and sending pictures of his genitals to the 12-year-old and two other young girls. Huff still faces statutory rape and statutory sodomy charges in Jefferson County, Missouri.

* Assistant GM Jennifer Ferro is officially the new general manager of Public Radio KCRW-FM, Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Times reported Ferro was expected to be named to succeed Ruth Seymour, who is retiring after 32 years in the position. The board of trustees of Santa Monica College, which owns KCRW's license, has now formally approved the appointment of Ferro, who will begin her new job March 1. "Jennifer epitomizes the perfect mix of traditional public radio experience, and the strategic and creative new media thinking that will be critical to KCRW's continued success in the years ahead," Chui L. Tsang, the college's president, said in a statement. The appointment capped a months-long national candidate search that in recent weeks had been narrowed to three finalists from an initial field of about 30 applicants, college officials said. Ferro, 41, has worked in many aspects of the NPR affiliate's operations, including programming, marketing, fundraising and new media, since she joined KCRW's staff in 1994.

* Robert Scorpio is named VP of Programming for Royce Communications effective March 15. Most recently, Scorpio was Operations Manager and Program Director at WPGC-AM & FM, Washington DC. A veteran programmer, he is also Executive Producer of Westwood One's "Top 40 Countdown." "With the addition of Robert Scorpio as VP of Programming, Royce International is poised to define the mainstream Top 40 Radio genre of tomorrow," says Royce President Ed Stolz. "Mr. Scorpio's 20-plus years of experience as a programmer, consultant and top-rated on-air personality in key major markets will drive the evolution of the Royce brand at its San Francisco, Las Vegas and Palm Springs outlets." Scorpio is best known for programming assignments at Radio One's KKBT-FM, Los Angeles, and KBXX-FM, Houston. Prior to joining WPGC in August 2008, he programmed KDAY-FM and KDAI-FM, Los Angeles, until May 2007, when he exited to open his Mostly Media consultancy.

* Alpha Broadcasting Portland names Nick Borders Director of Internet Operations effective March 1. Borders will oversee Internet initiatives for Alpha's six-station Portland cluster. Borders arrives at Alpha from Entercom where was the Corporate Director of Digital Development since 2005, managing and developing Websites for 105 radio stations. "Nick has a tremendous background in digital management and has played a critical corporate role in developing the backbone of digital platforms in the world of broadcasting," says Alpha President & COO Bob Proffitt. "Under his leadership, Nick's teams have an impressive track record of success through innovation, professionalism and communication. We are thrilled to have the benefit of his expertise on the Alpha team." Borders' previous experience includes two years as Internet Software & IT Manager at New Interactive Inc., where he designed and tested Web-based applications, as well as managed IT needs and staff.

* Cumulus Broadcasting and Vanderbilt University sign a new three-year deal for sports broadcasts. Under the agreement, Commodore football and men's basketball games will move to Rock "97.1 RQQ" WRQQ, which will become the flagship station for the Vanderbilt ISP Radio Network. The three-year contract becomes effective with the 2010 football season. Says Vanderbilt Vice Chancellor David Williams, "We have appreciated the long run with our current flagship station." That's Citadel's "104.5 FM The Zone" WGFX. "But as we looked at what would be Vanderbilt's best option going forward, we found a terrific new partner with Cumulus Media and 97.1 RQQ. Their management is excited to welcome our programming and brings a very strong commitment to showcase Commodore athletics." Cumulus SVP & General Manager Mark Sullivan tells us, "We are thrilled to partner with such a prestigious institute like Vanderbilt University. We're excited and proud to be a flagship station for Vanderbilt sports and to be associated with the premier NCAA Conference."

* William Kerr signs a two-year employment agreement with Arbitron to serve as President & CEO. Kerr assumed the position last month following the sudden departure of Michael Skarzynski. According to an SEC filing, Kerr will receive a base salary of $800,000 with an annual incentive bonus of up to 100% of that amount, and receives stock options. Also, subject to the approval of the Arbitron Board's Compensation Committee, he will receive an added long-term incentive award. Kerr's employment agreement will keep him in place until January 2012.

* Trade publication Radio Ink names Skip Pizzi as its new Technology Editor. Radio Ink says Pizzi will manage Tech Ink, a new, standalone monthly section of the magazine. "Tech Ink will cover radio tech issues in both the traditional broadcast and new-media sectors. Pizzi will also write a column on technology in alternate regular issues of Radio Ink," says the publication. Pizzi has worked in the radio technology field for more than 30 years, at stations, networks, and in new-media posts. He's also a respected journalist, author, consultant, and trainer. "We are delighted to add Skip to our publication," says Radio Ink Publisher & CEO Eric Rhoads. "His reputation and ability as a communicator will provide a new dimension to our coverage and improve our service to readers and advertisers of Radio Ink." Pizzi says, "I'm thrilled to be joining the Radio Ink team, and happy to see the acknowledgment of technology's increasing importance to the future of the radio business. This will make Radio Ink a more valuable resource to all of today's radio industry leaders." The first edition of Tech Ink will appear with the April 5 issue of Radio Ink.

* iBiquity Digital President & CEO Bob Struble says Internet Radio will not replace broadcast radio. In his latest monthly column, Struble discusses "Thoughts from CES: Radio's Competition Increases, but Pandora is not the Death Star." As he delves into the financial and technical realities of the growth of Internet radio, he concludes it "cannot and will not replace over-the-air broadcast radio." Struble writes about his experiences at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas last month, noting that Internet connectivity was the prevailing theme of the CES. "The next wave of internet radios, devices which look and act like regular radios but use WiFi networks to tune in thousands of internet stations, were displayed," writes Struble of CES. But "as I again counseled broadcasters at the Show, let's not get carried away here, especially with the threat to AM/FM coming from Internet radio. Radio needs to adapt to for sure, but Pandora in Fords does not spell doom." more...

* The NAB says its 2010 NAB Show, April 10-15 in Las Vegas, is "going green." NAB Show organizers "will implement an array of enhanced eco-friendly strategies this year aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of the world's largest electronic media show," says the broadcasters association. "The coordinated effort will encompass all areas of the NAB Show, and organizers are encouraging exhibitors and attendees to participate as well." Headlining the initiative is the launch of a 'green' newsroom, which will give exhibitors the ability to reach journalists worldwide. Exhibiting companies will be able to post news releases and product information in their online NAB Show listing through a new exhibitor portal for free, reducing the costs and use of hardcopy media kits. Additionally, NAB Show exhibitors will have the option of taking their media relations efforts a step further by utilizing the Online Press Office, a fully-integrated online component managed by NAB Show partner, Virtual Press Office. The replacement of direct mail with the use of electronic communication such as virtual brochures and the use of social networking sites will also help contribute to the NAB Show's green initiatives, organizers announced. Post-consumer recycled materials will be used for conference bags and any necessary direct mail marketing supplies. The NAB Show will also partner with Carbonfund.org to provide a solution to attendees, exhibitors, and speakers eager to offset the carbon emissions associated with attending a conference and exhibition.

* Veteran Citadel Conservative Talk KSFO-AM, San Francisco, morning personality Lee Rodgers is out. The first word of Rodgers' ouster came from the Rich Liberman Report. Later, KSFO confirmed the report with an announcement of a new morning host. "KSFO welcomes Brian Sussman to the KSFO Morning Show. After seven years as host of KSFO’s early evening program, Brian Sussman was named today [Feb. 18] as the new host of the station’s Morning Show." The News Release, published by Liberman as an update to his original report, then quotes Sussman. Brian said, “I’m excited by the opportunity to start the day for KSFO’s listeners, and to take the reins of the Bay Area’s most-listened-to morning talk program.” It’s comfortable territory for Sussman who in addition to his evening show had also been the morning show’s host every Monday for several years. The official word on Rodgers came at the bottom of the KSFO release: "Brian succeeds morning host Lee Rodgers. 'This was a very natural transition,' according to KSFO Programming Vice President Jack Swanson. 'Although a lot of listeners were unaware, Lee had actually moved to Arizona many years ago and was broadcasting from his home. He later cut back his work schedule to only four days a week, which created the opportunity for Brian to become part of the show. We are grateful to Lee for his many contributions, and wish him many happy years in Arizona.'”

* A Florida radio talk show host is being sued over the "Tea Party" name. Tea Party activists are suing Christian WEUS-AM, Orlando, conservative talk host Doug Guetzloe for trying to "hijack" their "Tea Party" movement. State activists have filed suit against Guetzlo and his attorney, after the lawyer, Fred O'Neal, filed to register the name "Tea Party" as an official political party in Florida. He then allegedly warned other tea party groups to stop using that name. The number of plaintiffs in the federal court case grew from six to 34 when an "amended complaint" was filed this week. "What started with six plaintiffs has grown to a coalition of almost three dozen activists and organizations united in defense of our movement," activist Tim McClellan says. The suit is seeking a declaratory judgment saying the defendants have nothing to do with the other Tea Party activists in the state. The groups are also seeking an order to stop O'Neal from threatening lawsuits against those groups using the "Tea Party" name.

* The "Morning the Music Died" at Midwest Communications' five music stations in Wausau, WI. The stations stopped playing music Thursday morning (Feb. 18) — but only for one hour. It helped illustrate the message being conveyed. The stations aired a talk forum spotlighting the Performance Rights Act and its potential effect on music stations. "Operation Save Our Stations" asks listeners to help stop the PRA, which would levy new additional royalty fees on radio stations for the airing of recorded music — or what the NAB calls "a Performance Tax." Says Midwest Wausau Operations Manager Chris Conley, "One of the things that is the biggest frustrations for us is the tax would go to the record labels. Three of the four biggest record labels are foreign owned. So, it's tax money being collected by American broadcasters that literally goes, not only out of our community, but literally out of our country."

* Bold Gold Media prepares to flip "94.3 Lite FM" WLNP, Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA, to "94.3 The Talker," March 1. Bold Gold recently acquired the station, and already has dropped its AC format. The new talk lineup will feature mostly syndicated programs — starting the day with Don Imus, 6-9am. Imus in the Morning will be followed by Glenn Beck, 9-noon. The rest of the schedule lists Laura Ingraham, noon-3pm; Sean Hannity, 3-6pm; and Mark Levin, 6-9pm. Prior to the March 1 launch of "The Talker," WLNP is simulcasting co-owned Classic Hits "105 The River" WWRR.

* Clear Channel Spanish CHR WXKS-AM, Boston, prepares its format flip to Conservative Talk. Glenn Beck will air 9am-noon and Sean Hannity will take the 3-6pm slot when the station changes formats, April 1. The station's morning show will be local, but Program Director Bill George is refusing to give any word on who will host the morning show, although it's believed someone is already tagged for morning drive. It's also reported that Clear Channel is in talks with co-owned Premiere Radio Networks to bring Rush Limbaugh across the street from Talker WRKO-AM. George was also mum on Rush Limbaugh, reports the Boston Herald. WXKS last week announced that it was immediately adding the syndicated paranormal program "Coast to Coast" from midnight to 5am after WRKO dropped it.

* Moreland Properties is acquiring Denver's Adult Variety Hits "Jack FM" duo KJAC-FM and KCUV-FM. Moreland, which is purchasing the stations from Tim Brown's NRC Broadcasting, is expected to give the statlons new formats, based on an FCC filing which indicates the buyer isn't receiving the call letters or "stations' rights to the ‘Jack’ format, trade names or trade dress” as part of the $5 million cash deal. The deal also includes two signal boosters in Boulder along with a FM translator. In 2005, NRC sold 50,000 watt KNRC-AM, Englewood-Denver to New Radio Venture for $5.52 million.

* Salem Communications acquires the conservative blog Hot Air from commentator Michelle Malkin. Salem adds the Hot Air Website to its Christian and Conservative Talk radio stations and another Website, Townhall.com. Salem hopes to create one of the largest Web presences for conservative commentary, says VP Jonathan Garthwaite. "I have always respected Michelle Malkin and the insights and opinions presented by Hot Air," says Garthwaite, who will serve as General Manager of both Townhall and Hot Air. Salem acquires Hot Air for an undisclosed sum, according to WakeUp America. Hot Air is one of the biggest, most influential conservative sites on the Web and was launched in April 2006, with Malkin as founder & CEO. Malkin now is editorially focused on her own MichelleMalkin.com, and her writing and television appearances. Hot Air is managed on a day-to-day basis by editors Ed Morrissey and the mysterious AllahPundit, who are reported to be part of the deal in the sale of to Salem, and absolutely essential to the core value of Hot Air, writes Wake Up America. "We are told that, from a user’s perspective, Hot Air will remain the same despite the change in ownership," says the published report.

* The Canadian Association of Broadcasters plans to shut down after reaching an impasse with some members. Acccording to CTV, CAB Chairman Elmer Hildebrand says the organization, which represents Canadian radio and television broadcasters, has decided close this June. Hildebrand has reportedly been trying since December to help the CAB find common ground between broadcasters and cable operators, who have been pushing increasingly different views on the industry. Major cable companies hold televisions assets themselves but they also have diverging views from local Canadian TV giants. After reviewing its strategy, CAB concluded that local TV operators wouldn't be able to find a common ground with the cable companies. “It had become obvious some time ago that the three sectors, television radio and specialty (channels), all in the same room couldn't really sort out their priorities in a manner that the association could actually do their work,” says Hildebrand in an interview with CTV. “It was my hope to be able to peel off the television and the specialty (channels) and maintain the organization as a radio-only association.” The Canadian Association of Broadcasters was established 84 years ago to represent the radio industry and pursue common concerns, though it later branched into television broadcasting when both industries began to share similar interests. Hildebrand says he hopes to form a new organization that solely represents radio broadcasters.

* Sirius XM stock breaks the buck barrier Wednesday afternoon (Feb. 17). The satcaster's stock surged above the $1 a share mark Wednesday afternoon, breaking through the penny-stock barrier for the first time since 2008, reports The Street. Sirius XM stock skyrocketed 11.6% to $1.10 on the day and closed up 9.6% at $1.05. Standard & Poor's analyst Tuna Amobi says that the lead-up to Sirius's rally Wednesday stems from investors' perspective that the company has weathered most of its troubles from a financing standpoint, as well as an operational perspective. Amobi cites improving trends in the company's automotive channel and its pre-announced fourth-quarter results. The stock's Wednesday achievement allays much investor fear over the stock being delisted. Amobi says Sirius has dealt its cards well in buying time and avoiding a reverse stock split. He also notes that Sirius' increasing volume, even before the stock went over a dollar, signaled that those on the sidelines were "coming back into the shares ... it's a good sign any time volumes go up in terms of demand and supply dynamics."

* KFI's Canadian Import Bill Carroll says: "I don't want to be something. I want to say something." Carroll, who joins the Los Angeles talker February 22, is quoted as saying that in a phone interview with the Orange County Register's Gary Lycan. Carroll is coming from Canada to replace Bill Handel in the noon-2pm weekday slot at KFI-AM. Handel continues 5-9am weekdays, but admitted doing two shows a day took a toll on him the last several months. "The (rating) numbers absolutely sucked. God-awful," he said, adding "That, and the fact that no one wants to hear that much from me, not even my wife." Carroll has been a top-rated talk host in Toronto. "KFI and I have been in a conversation, doing a bit of a dance, for about three years. But it was not the right opportunity, not the right timing. But my contract was coming to an end, and we had an opportunity. It has all been very fast. It came together in days," Carroll tells Lycan. What can L.A. listeners expect to hear? "I am a nice guy with a short fuse. I'm pretty opinionated, patient and reasonable, but I have an edge people will recognize. My buttons will be pushed when I see incompetence. It will be hard to nail me down. But I do have a logical, common sense way of looking at things," said Carroll. Will he be up-to-speed on local talk at his new station. He says KFI Program Director Robin Bertolucci "has a producer who has been emailing me topics and I am working with him. In Canada, we watch American news, we know half a million Canadians live in L.A., we know what's going on."

* Joel Salkowitz is behind the online-only return of New York's "Pulse 87." Salkowitz tells AllAccess.com that he is not only programming Pulse, but purchased the station’s automation system, music library and other assets at a bankruptcy auction. Former owner Mega Media filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy when it took the station off the air at 87.7 FM where it had used the analog audio portion of LPTV Channel 6 in NYC. The online "Pulse 87" is not associated with Mega Media, emphasizes Salkowitz. "The outpouring of support from the audience has been nothing short of amazing," Salkowitz tells All Access. "I literally made four phones calls and sent eight text messages on Monday night and in less than 48 hours we’ve had over 20,000 pages views on the site! We’ve already been contacted by former clients who want to work with the station — and some of the former salespeople are already on the case. I’ve been contacted by the entire air staff, all my former mix show guys, local artists, lots of the people who worked in promotions and on the street teams. Everyone wants to come back and volunteer. That’s amazing. We hope to have people on the air within the next couple of weeks. With the fan base that was crying out for this format since the station went off the air, we expect to grow very quickly. The social networking elements are just remarkable. I don’t believe I’ve ever witnessed this kind of passion for a radio station!"

* Lotus Entravision Reps (LER) names radio sales vet Scott Keeler VP of Southwest Territory. Most recently, Keeler served as Hispanic Sales Manager Southwest Region for Citadel/ABC Radio Networks. LER is a joint venture radio-sales rep firm representing more than 125 Spanish-language stations. "Scott is an accomplished sales veteran with an exceptional track record in the Hispanic media sector and we're pleased to welcome him to the Company," says LER President Phillip Woodie. "We're confident in Scott's ability to create new advertising opportunities for our stations in the Southwest Territory and look forward to him bringing his expertise to our group." Adds Keeler, "LER represents the top rated Spanish-language stations in this region and I'm eager to dive into this new position and help uncover new prospects and develop new advertising programs for our partners and stations. It's exciting to join the leading rep firm that has the most effective platform in the industry to help advertisers reach the growing Hispanic audience."

* Tom Leykis is returning to Los Angeles radio on “Retro 1260 AM” KGIL, starting February 25. Leykis' lifestyle program called “The Tasting Room” will air 8-10pm Thursdays, according to Gary Lycan reporting for the Orange County Register. Leykis was among those who lost their talk shows when KLSX-FM flipped to CHR-Top40 "AMP Radio" KAMP a year ago. KLSX also dropped his syndicated show “The Tasting Room,” which Leykis’ Website — www.tastingwithtom.com — describes as a “lifestyle-themed program for men with a taste for the finer things life, from fine wine, high-end spirits and craft brews to first-rate dining and premium cigars.” Leykis tells Lycan in an interview, “When I left CBS, we also severed the relationship with my syndication group Westwood One. But my producer and I kept the stations we had and continued to feed them new shows on our own. The idea was we would do this until we figured out a business plan and what we wanted to do,” he said. Leykis says he's forming a new “boutique syndication company called The New Normal. “Instead of being a big monster that syndicates 160 different products, we will do some hand-picked projects that I believe in and use a small team of people to work on affiliate relations and ad sales.”

* Salem News-Talk WIND-AM, Chicago, is in no hurry to hook a new partner for Big John Howell’s morning show. Chicago media reporter Robert Feder writes, "As Salem Communications narrows the list of candidates for co-host of Big John Howell’s morning show at news/talk WIND-AM (560), there’s still a chance the winner could turn out to be 'none of the above.'" Feder says two months ago, Howell’s on-air partner and friend, Cisco Cotto, surprised his bosses and co-workers by quitting after more than three years to rejoin Citadel Broadcasting's crosstown News Talk WLS-AM for more money. While management has been conducting a search for Cotto’s replacement, Howell has been hosting the show solo. Beyond the obvious cost saving for his bosses, the prospect of continuing without a co-host has a certain appeal to Howell, who said to Feder, in a Wednesday (Feb. 17) interview, "I’ve been told that they’re comfortable with me working as a solo until they find the right person, and there’s no rush. If I had to go forward without a partner, there are some aspects of that that I would welcome. But I do think that for the show’s development and for it to be really competitive, it’s also valuable to bring in other voices. I can go it alone for the foreseeable future, but for the sake of continuity, it’s probably wise to have a co-host in there at some point. I think the company has become comfortable with the show in its present form — and I think that’s been an unanticipated bonus — not to mention they’re saving a few dollars.” Howell declined to comment on — or even confirm — any of the candidates on the short list to replace Cotto. more...

* Beasley Broadcast Group names Becky Gilreath Director of Sales for its six-station Fayetteville, NC, cluster. Gilreath, a 25-years sales and sales management veteran most recently was Regional Sales Manager for a five-station group in Green Bay, WI, but she also spent many years at stations in the Carolinas. "I am thrilled to be coming home to North Carolina and to BBGI," says Gilreath. "We have a great group of stations here and I am happy to be rejoining the Beasley family." The Fayetteville stations include Country WKML, Classic Hits WFLB, Urban WZFX, Urban AC WUKS, Christian WTEL-AM and Adult Standards WAZZ-AM. Gilreath reports to VP & Market Manager Mac Edwards. "Becky joins a veteran team consisting of the best sales managers and account executives in the market," says Edwards. "She brings a special level of expertise, energy and leadership that’s sure to invigorate our sales and marketing efforts. Equally, we're pleased to have her back home in North Carolina, where the summers are warm and the tea is sweet!"

* Jeff Price is named President and Publisher of Sporting News, which operates Sporting News Radio. He succeeds Ed Baker, who moves up to Chief Strategic Officer at parent American City Business Journal (ACBJ). Price, who will be based in New York, has been consulting for Sporting News since October. He was in charge of Sports Illustrated's digital unit from 2005-2009. "I kind of feel like I got the first pick in the NFL draft or just landed the best free agent on the market," says ACBJ CEO Whitney Shaw. "Either way, this is big for Sporting News. There's not a more qualified person to help us continue to build Sporting News. He's bright, he's connected, and he's totally dedicated to what we're doing." Sporting News Radio is a sports radio network that broadcasts sports news, talk, scores, and highlights 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and airs on both AM and FM stations.

* A federal appeals court affirms a denial of summary judgment in a lawsuit against Cumulus Media. A debit card supplier's appeal of the denial of summary judgment in its suit against Cumulus is rejected by the U.S. Court of Appeals in the Eleventh Circuit, according to Leagle.com. BMU, Inc. and World-Wide Card Solutions sued Cumulus for breach of contract, claiming Cumulus failed to distribute its cards to listeners in the Tallahassee market. A motion for summary judgment was sought. A lower court judge denied the motion after Cumulus filed a statement of material facts and BMU failed to respond, making Cumulus' version of the facts dispositive. BMU claimed in its appeal that it did indeed respond, but the court said that it had merely added additional facts and did not respond to Cumulus statement. The appeals court affirms the lower court ruling in Cumulus' favor.

* The FCC Media Bureau announces further details for its February 23 media ownership workshop in SC. The workshop is set for 1:30-9:00pm at the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia, SC. The purpose of the two-panel workshop is to explore local radio and television marketplace issues as part of the Commission’s quadrennial review of its broadcast ownership rules. The forum is open to the public, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. The public will be given an opportunity to participate via “open microphone” at the end of each panel. The workshop will also be broadcast live over the Internet from the FCC Live Web page at www.fcc.gov/live. Questions from the Internet audience can be submitted throughout the course of the workshop via email to 2010quadrennial@fcc.gov and via Twitter using the hash tag #MOwkshop. The full details for the two sessions, including panel members, are available here [pdf] from TPMedia.

* There are strong indications Long Island NPR affiliate WLIU, Southampton, NY, is in a fight for its life. Still, the major players continue to voice optimism, reports The Independent, a Hamptons newspaper. Though ownership pushes for donations and has led the public to believe it can save the radio station by making contributions, the problem is far more complicated — the station is a money losing machine, says the published report. Housed at the Southampton campus of what is now Stony Brook University, WLIU is still owned by Long Island University, which sold the campus to SUNY-Stony Brook more than three years ago. Part of the deal allowed the station to stay on campus for three years. After granting the radio station two extensions, Stony Brook has issued an ultimatum to vacate the campus by March 31. "We need the space for our MFA writing program. It attracts scores of students," says SUNY spokesman Darren Johnson. "We're in a little tiny office. LIU put a provision in the sale that the station could stay for three years — that was 3 1/2 years ago." Long Island University threatened to close the station last year until a local group, Peconic Public Broadcasting, stepped forward to take over the station for $2.4 million, but The Independent claims that the new group's efforts have "fallen flat" and some of the celebrity investor-donors have not come through with promised funding.

* Syndicated radio host Michael Baisden launches the "One Million Mentors Campaign to Save Our Kids." Baisden creates a campaign to encourage one million Americans to sign up as mentors for children in need through a national outreach effort. The campaign will launch with an initial event in Dallas, February 17. It will then visit 72 cities in a campaign-themed bus; and at each tour stop, Baisden will host mentoring forums in partnership with local mentoring organizations and affiliates of Big Brothers Big Sisters, National CARES Mentoring Movement and 100 Black Men. "The video taped beating of Chicago teen Derrion Albert was truly the final straw for me," says Baisden. "After seeing it broadcast repeatedly on national news I knew I needed to step up and get involved personally in the effort to save our kids. My hope is that by touring across the country, this national mentoring campaign will have an impact on some of these young people who need caring adults involved in their lives."

* Superadio Networks will syndicate Lenny Green's nightly "KISSing After Dark." Superadio signs an agreement to syndicate the 7pm-midnight slow jams show at "98.7 KISS fm" WRKS, New York, with WRKS as its first affiliate. "Lenny Green has mastered the art of presenting music to an adult audience," says Superadio President & COO Jack Bryant. "KISSing After Dark With Lenny Green should be a must-carry for every market."

* NPR Music announces its lineup of concert simulcasts for next month's SXSW Conference in Austin, TX. In addition to the previously-announced headlining concert from Spoon, March 17 at Stubbs, NPR Music will also offer a daytime concert on the afternoon of March 18. NPR Music will make both shows available to audiences everywhere through free live webcasts at www.npr.org/music, and live streaming via the NPR iPhone App. Both concerts will be aired on KUT, Austin; WFUV, New York; WXPN, Philadelphia; KEXP, Seattle; and The Current from Minnesota Public Radio. "Now in its 24th year, the SXSW Music and Media Conference has grown into the must-attend networking event for the 21st century music industry," says SXSW.com.

* SBS responds to Tuesday's New York State Supreme Court PPM encoding ruling. Tuesday (Feb. 16), New York State Supreme Court Judge Shirley Kornreich ruled Spanish Broadcasting System must continue PPM encoding. SBS Wednesday (Feb. 17) issued a statement — available here from TPMedia — responding to the PPM encoder issue: "SBS has been actively dealing with Arbitron, the sole provider of ratings information, since the introduction of PPM. As a member of both the PPM Coalition and the Spanish Radio Association (SRA), SBS has been one of the many outspoken critics of this new methodology. It has been and continues to be our contention that the PPM service unfairly discounts the listening audiences of both Urban and Hispanic communities. We have been consistent in our fight and have repeatedly asked that Arbitron gain accreditation from the MRC before implementing this methodology currency in any market. These pleas have been ignored by Arbitron, who has instead decided to continue its rollout despite being accredited in only two markets (they are currently in 33 markets). We contend that Arbitron has not lived up to their contractual obligation to deliver reliable and accurate ratings. After Arbitron refused our repeated demands to rectify the situation, we concluded that Arbitron repudiated the parties' agreements. If they were not going to provide us with reliable information, we saw no need to encode. The court’s ruling on the temporary restraining order was measured based on a concern that other minority radio broadcasters would follow suit and turn-off their encoders. This, of course, bespeaks to the bigger problem – minority broadcasters’ fundamental dissatisfaction with Arbitron’s PPM methodology. The court increased the bond amount to $250,000 to cover the losses that SBS may sustain during the interim period. While disappointed by the ruling, SBS looks forward to presenting a full defense and having the court adjudicate the full merits of the case."

Says SBS Chief Revenue Officer Frank Flores, "Arbitron continues to treat its customers with disdain. We will abide by the judge's order to encode while we await our day in court to dispute Arbitron's claims and prove that we are truly the ones being harmed. The fact the MRC, PPMC and Congress are continuing to meet with Arbitron to try to correct the flaws of PPM, undermines Arbitron's contention that its PPM methodology is sound."

* The PPM Coalition says it's disappointed by Tuesday's New York ruling in the battle between Arbitron and SBS. A statement released Wednesday (Feb. 17) by the PPM Coalition says, "The PPM Coalition is disappointed that the New York State Court continued the injunction requiring Spanish Broadcasting System to encode its programming for Arbitron's inaccurate ratings system. However, the Court was concerned only with the contractual relationship between the parties and could not consider the more significant issue of the decimation of diversity on the nation's airwaves. That is why the Coalition has been looking to Congress, the Federal Communications Commission, and the state attorneys general to provide relief from this serious problem." SBS is a member of the PPM Coalition, which has been at the forefront of the fight against Arbitron's Portable People Meter electronic ratings methodology.

* New York State Supreme Court Judge Shirley Kornreich rules SBS must continue PPM encoding. Arbitron filed suit against Spanish Broadcasting System last week for breach of contract over the company's decision to stop encoding on nine stations in five cities. Kornreich ordered SBS to continue encoding, while ordering Arbitron to post a bond to cover potential damages to SBS. Both parties were told to look into mediation to settle the dispute. Arbitron sued SBS for breach of contract as the companies continue to battle over PPM, fees charged for the service and enforcement of contracts that were originally signed for diary ratings. SBS was ordered to resume encoding last week by a temporary restraining order (TRO) that was issued pending the Tuesday (Feb. 16) hearing. The PPM Coalition, of which SBS is a member, filed an ex parte letter with the FCC renewing its previous call for a Commission investigation of the Portable People Meter technology, and the effect of its use on minority broadcasters. The Coalition — which also includes Entravision, Univision Radio, ICBC Broadcast Holdings, and others, in addition to SBS — said Arbitron "escalated its attack on minority targeted radio broadcasters" by filing for and obtaining the TRO. SBS has complied and reconnected PPM encoders at stations in five markets, saying it was complying with the order from New York State Supreme Court Judge Shirley Kornreich to reinstall the units. That ex parte filing with the FCC also said SBS had attempted to work with Arbitron "to address the concerns raised by minority broadcasters and Congress during the recent Congressional hearings" on the PPM, and said SBS had requested that Arbitron issue the company a credit. The filing said Arbitron rejected that demand, after which SBS suspended payments and Arbitron stopped providing ratings data. After it stopped receiving data, SBS ceased encoding and Arbitron filed suit. Even though SBS stations have performed well under PPM, SBS believes PPM should be accredited by the Media Rating Council in each market. Cities affected include New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco and Miami.

* Minority broadcasters and civil rights organizations tell the FCC they want action on minority ownership issues. MMTC, NABOB, SBS, the NAACP, and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition are among some 23 organizations signing a letter to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski that notes the Commission hasn't yet submitted its required 2009 report on market-entry barriers for entrepreneurs and other small businesses. The letter also points out that the Commission did not vote in 2009 on "any of the dozens of pending proposals to advance minority ownership and participation in the industries the Commission regulates." That includes proposals endorsed by the Advisory Committee on Diversity for Communications in the Digital Age. The letter offers examples of the FCC's "shortcomings in areas of concern to us," including the Commission's failure to adopt any of two dozen "noncontroversial initiatives" that would give minority businesses an opportunity to acquire FCC licenses. The letter also asserts that the FCC has failed to restore "minimal enforcement of the Broadcast Equal Employment Opportunity Rule" — or assign a compliance officer to enforce the 2007 Advertising Nondiscrimination Rule. The groups also note that the FCC has not yet held a hearing on Abitron's PPM. The group of organizations also say the FCC failed "to include even a mention of minorities or minority business enterprises in the December 2009 National Broadband Plan Framework — ignoring the transcripts from four staff workshops and two field hearings at which the witnesses focused on minority cyberpreneurship." Also, they are unhappy that the FCC has not supported the "only remaining federal initiative aimed at promoting minority and women media and telecom ownership — the Telecommunications Development Fund." Read the full letter here [pdf] from TPMedia.

* Nasdaq grants Spanish Broadcasting System's request for an extension to return to compliance before delisting. SBS is given until June 7 to get its stock price up to the minimum price of $1 per share. If SBS cannot do that by June 7 it may again face delisting. The company received a suspension notice in August 2008 after its stock closed below $1 for 30 consecutive business days. That notice gave the company until February 17, 2009 to get back into compliance with exchange rules; however, Nasdaq suspended enforcement of its bid-price requirements, and SBS was given until December 4, 2009. SBS was unable to get its stock price up to $1 for 10 consecutive business days before that date and received notice that it would be delisted on December 16 unless it requested a hearing. SBS presented its plan to regain compliance with listing requirements at a hearing on January 7, and now Nasdaq tells SBS its request is granted. Before the June deadline, SBS must bring its stock price back up to at least $1 per share for a minimum of 10 consecutive trading days.

* TotalPopularMusic.com announces a major expansion of its TPMedia News. According to a News Release &mdash available here — the addition of the TPM NewsPage was a fairly recent one, in response to readers requests. The page now includes TPMedia Briefs, Behind the Microphone, and Radio Web Watch segments. Now, founder and President Mark Harris, and associate Jay Thomas, have expanded the NewsPage coverage with the addition of several designated correspondents — Ron Stevens, West Coast; Ken Matthews, Mid West; and George Jensen, Mid Atlantic. Other correspondents will soon be announced, says Thomas, VP of Operations. Harris adds, "In addition to adding our new correspondents, we have expanded to three separate pages for Radio & Media News — the main page of current items, NewsPage2 for prior recent items, and now a third TPMedia Briefs Archives page for older reports." Future plans include a separate domain and Website for TPMedia and significant enhancements which Thomas declined to reveal prior to their inauguration. Harris tells NewsPage, "It was never my intention to start another Radio and Media News site. However, during negotiations to affiliate our Total Popular Music with a major broadcast company and an associated program syndicator, I was urged to make the Website a full service destination. After early experimentation, we discovered that the major search engines gave us greater status for our news coverage than any other feature we previously offered. In fact, I was researching background on a news item follow-up, using Google's search engine, and of the three sources listed for the earlier report, I discovered ours was #2. The final decision to expand and promote our Radio & Media news coverage was made recently after an established site dropped us from their daily newsletter mailing list, saying they considered us serious competition." That happened, says Harris, in spite of the fact that he often referred his readers to their site, and offered free promotion for a separate emailed report written by another broadcast consultant whom the TPM founder says he "greatly respects and admires."   more...

* Wells Fargo Securities analyst Marci Ryvicker increases CBS revenue projections for 2010. Ryvicker expects improved Q1 revenue reports from most broadcasting companies, but cautions that those expectations are already built into stock prices. Her new estimates for CBS Corp. especially boost revenue projections. CBS has changed how it reports segment revenues. The company created a new Local Media segment which will report CBS Radio, CBS Outdoor and the O&O TV station group separately from the network and cable businesses. “We updated our CBS model to coincide with management's format change and took this opportunity to dust off our estimates," says Ryvicker. "We raised our revenue and EBITDA assumptions for '09 and '10 but EPS did not move materially due to below-the-line items. “We expect another positive conf call and will look to new CFO Joe Ianello to help set expectations for 2010, which seem to be high (and rightly so, in our opinion). BOTTOM LINE: High expectations will be tough to beat, although this is already priced in,” Ryvicker says in a research note. In her updated projections, the Wells Fargo Securities analyst now expects total revenue at CBS Corp. to be down 1% by the fourth quarter. She’s expecting gains of 1% for the network business, 5% for TV production-distribution and 5% for the cable networks, but with Interactive down 3%, for total growth of 2% for the “Content Group.” That leaves the “Local Group” to account for the decline. Ryvicker expects CBS Outdoor to be down the most, 11%, with CBS Radio off 7% and the O&O TV group flat.

* New Northwest Broadcasters says it's seeing positive signs in national advertising trends. "Advertisers seem to be returning to proven ways to grow their brand," says NNB President & CEO Trila Bumstead. "In increasing numbers, advertisers are discovering there is a fundamental difference between hits on website and radio's ability to facilitate actual sales." NNB says there's "plenty of blue skies" as national business is trending up 21% in the first quarter and regional business is up nearly 10%. "In increasing number, advertisers are discovering there is a fundamental difference between hits on a website and radio's ability to facilitate actual sales," adds Bumstead. She also credits NNB's change of ratings vendors as a reason for the uptick. "We moved to Eastlan in our three rated markets," she says. "We reduced our research costs significantly in the transition and experienced an overwhelming response from the buying community. We invested the money saved on the Eastlan transition back in our operation and thanks to the hard work of our people at NNB, we are already reaping the benefits as the sales numbers released to day indicate." The Seattle-based NNB owns 31 radio stations in Washington, Oregon, and Alaska.

* Scarborough Research expands cellphone only (CPO) households into 20 more local market studies. The new markets will receive CPO treatment starting with the second release of Scarborough data in 2010, issuing to the marketplace in October. The consumer and media research firm company first announced the incorporation of CPO in August 2009, when it unveiled the first ten local markets receiving it. With this latest expansion, Scarborough now includes CPO households in a total of 30 local market studies. In 2011, the remainder of the Scarborough Top-Tier markets will also receive CPO treatment. "CPO enhances our sample composition among traditionally hard to reach young and multicultural populations," says EVP of Sales Steve Seraita. "We are enthusiastic and confident in our ability to deliver our clients consistently reliable data that is properly representative of todays consumers."

* Group radio owner George Flinn is an expected candidate for Congress. Flinn, who is also a medical doctor and a Shelby County Commissioner in Tennessee, is likely to become a candidate for the U.S. House seat for Tennessee’s 8th District, being abandoned by John Tanner (D-TN). Flinn has filed to enter the primaries on the Republican side. If Flinn follows through and does indeed become a candidate, he's likely to face Republican hopefuls Stephen Fincher and Ronald Kirkland. The GOP winner is seen by political observers to have an edge to win in the general election, with the seat being vacated by Tanner one of those for which a Democrat seat is considered ripe for a Republican takeover. Reportedly, a fourth Republican, John Farmer, is said to have dropped out of the race to support Flinn’s candidacy. Flinn Broadcasting operates radio stations in Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. George Flinn is President of Flinn Broadcasting.

* Could the White Sox move their games to FM in 2011 and be an anchor for a third Chicago Sports Talk station? "The possibility is very much on the table," writes Ed Sherman at Crain's Chicago Business. "According to sources, the Sox are looming as a key component in discussions over a sports talk station being added to Chicago's FM roster," reports Sherman. He notes the Sox are entering the final year of their deal with Sports Talk WSCR-AM. That contract pays them in the neighborhood of $3 million per year. Meanwhile, ratings for WSCR and Sports Talk WMVP-AM "are booming." Based on the success of the format, "and with sports talk stations migrating to FM in other major markets, I wrote a couple of weeks ago that the option has to be considered here," writes "Ed S." He adds that one man in particular stands out. Jeff Smulyan is the CEO of Indianapolis-based Emmis Communications, which owns WLUP-FM 97.9 and WKQX-FM 101.1. Smulyan, he notes, is considered the father of Sports Talk radio, launching the format at WFAN in New York in 1988. A couple years ago, he started an all-sports station in Indianapolis. "With both of his FM stations struggling for ratings here, Mr. Smuylan reportedly is looking at the sports alternative for one of them," says the published report. And he adds, "Oh, did we mention that one of Mr. Smuylan's closest friends is Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf? Mr. Smuylan was a former owner of the Seattle Mariners during the 1990s." more...

* Cox Radio's WENN-AM, Birmingham, flips from "News-Talk 1320" to "Birmingham's Neo Soul Station." The new format is also being aired on a translator at 101.9 FM. "Birmingham's Neo Soul" replaces a Black Talk format. Cluster Operations Manager Kori White adds programming duties and will host middays. B. Brian airs afternoons. Core artists include Maxwell, Erykah Badu, D'Angelo, Eric Roberson, Jill Scott and Angie Stone. Cox Radio also owns Urban "Jamz 95.7" WBHJ and Urban AC "98.7 Kiss FM" WBHK in Birmingham. "Birmingham's Neo Soul Station WENN 101.9 FM" — as it's being billed — is online at 1320wenn.com, and offers live streaming of the new format.

* The FCC cites two Erie, PA, men for operating pirate radio stations. Shawn McKines and Marshall Jones received cease and desist notices demanding that they stop broadcasting immediately, and show proof of FCC approval, reports the Erie Times News. The FCC's records show no license has been issued for the frequencies on which they were broadcasting: 89.5 and 90.1 FM, respectively. Both men are subject to possible fines, imprisonment and having their broadcasting equipment confiscated. The stations have now gone off the air. They had been broadcasting rhythm and blues, soul and gospel music. McKines declined to comment when asked about the FCC notice. "We're just going to let things go for a while," he said. Efforts by the Times News to reach Jones were not successful. David Viglione, an FCC resident agent from Buffalo, visited Erie on Jan. 27 and detected radio signals from each location. Both stations could be heard in various parts of the city.

* J.R. Nelson, one of the original "Morning Zoo" hosts on "Z100" WHTZ, New York, dies after a battle with cancer. Both a production talent and on-air talent, Nelson was apart of "Scott Shannon's Morning Zoo" at "Z100." Nelson also worked for WHK-AM and WMMS-FM, Cleveland. Former WMMS Program Director John Gorman calls Nelson "one of the most talented and creative people I've worked with." He says in addition to his other work, Nelson "did many of the parody songs for WMMS" during the mid-1980s. Nelson also served as Production Director of WYCD-FM, Detroit, before retiring in 2000 to concentrate on his voiceover and production business.

* Citadel Media is dropping its syndication of Los Angeles-based Big Boy's Neighborhood, effective March 26. Executive producer Jason Ryan tells LARadio.com, "With all the changes Citadel is going through, both Citadel and BBN mutually decided that to further grow Big Boy's 25 successful affiliates, a re-energized effort from a new syndicator would be the best next step for everyone." Big Boy’s Neighborhood is looking for a new syndicator to handle the 25 stations carrying the popular show. "Big continues to dominate his 18-34A target demo here in LA and is considering a few TV opportunities," says Ryan.

* Citadel Media launches the "Jeremy Show" on more than 100 "Today's Best Country" affiliates and other stations. The Jeremy Robinson-hosted show originates at KSCS, Dallas, Monday-Saturday, 6-11pm (CT). "Jeremy is an exciting new talent for Country radio and a fantastic addition to our portfolio," says Citadel Media SVP of Programming & Distribution Carl Anderson. "He's uniquely qualified in this format to attract a younger-skewing audience since he's a member of the demo himself I'm confident that program directors looking for a compelling nighttime show that draws audience participation will love what they hear from Jeremy." KSCS PD Chris Huff adds, "The enthusiasm and energy Jeremy brings to night is second to none. He makes listening fun and makes listeners his friends in the process — not just on the radio, but through constant interaction on Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. His audience really does become an integral part of his show each and every night." Robinson, 29, started in radio at age 16, doing Saturday nights on KBEC, Waxahachie, TX. He's been at KSCS for the past six years. Robinson's national show will include popular features from his KSCS show, including "The Impossible Question" and "The Interactive Top 5."

* Westwood One will continue to exclusively syndicate the Masters Tournament for radio this year. A new deal announced Tuesday (Feb. 16) keeps Westwood One as the syndicator of radio play-by-play from Augusta National Golf Club. The agreement provides Westwood One with on-course radio rights, including live hole-by-hole coverage. In addition, the broadcast will be streamed live on the Tournament's official Website, at www.masters.com. "With this renewal we are thrilled to continue the longest running national radio broadcast partnership in all of sports," said President/Network Division Gary Schonfeld. "As the number one network for sports, Westwood One will cap an unparalleled run of events through its broadcast of the Masters." Westwood One has been the radio home of the Masters Tournament for nearly 60 years, providing play-by-play coverage. In 2010, Westwood One will provide live coverage April 8-11.

* Bob Long's weekend talk show "AutoWorld" signs with Skip Joeckel's Talk Shows USA. The new ageement is to represent and syndicate the show. Host Bob Long says, "I've known Skip for a number of years and he'll be a great resource in helping us grow our affiliate list. Program Directors know and respect him and the programs he offers." Joeckel adds, "Bob has been hosting AutoWorld for 18 years and continues his long and successful run on stations across the country. Stations are looking for great, entertaining weekend programming they can sell — and AutoWorld fits the bill."

* Clear Channel Radio stations raise almost $2.8 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. That's an 11% increase from last year. A total of 29 CCR stations nationwide held local radiothons February 11-12 raising $2,792,094 for St. Jude's. "Radio listeners have loyally supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since we began radiothon fundraising more than 30 years ago," says Richard Shadyac Jr., CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising organization of St. Jude. "We are so thankful to these Clear Channel stations for sharing two days of their programming and talent to help raise funds so St. Jude can continue its groundbreaking research and lifesaving care to benefit children in communities everywhere."

* National Public Radio (NPR) is now streaming live for Android devices. The NPR News application is upgraded for Android devices, offering access to more than a thousand live NPR program streams. The app, available now in Android Market, also allows users to share news items via email, SMS, or Facebook. Users can also stream audio in the background while they use other apps, and listen to programs and read at the same time. Public radio listeners can choose from and bookmark more than 600 NPR station and hundreds of on-demand streams. They are also able to bookmark programs to play later.

* J.D. Hayworth makes it official. He will challenge Arizona Sen. John McCain in the state's Republican primary. The former congressman and ex Phoenix radio talk show host is expected to give McCain his toughest re-election challenge in years, say political analysts. Hayworth began his campaign with a rally in Phoenix Monday (Feb. 15) and has a three-day statewide tour scheduled, reports USA TODAY. Also Monday, Chris Simcox, co-founder of an anti-illegal immigrant group, dropped out of the race and will endorse Hayworth, reports Politico. McCain told USA TODAY over the weekend that he takes every race seriously and that he will work hard for support. "I know of no other way to campaign," he said. Hayworth exited Clear Channel "Newstalk 550" KFYI, Phoenix, as afternoon host under pressure January 22. His "rsignation" came only one day after we reported Clear Channel lawyers were "muzzling" the former Congressman who, at the time, was said "to be considering a GOP primary run" against McCain. Hayworth had been criticized for remaining on the air while considering his candidacy. “It has been a joy to spend weekday afternoons on KFYI. Now, another chapter begins," Hayworth said in his on-air goodbye. "The call to public service remains, and again it may very well lead to pursuit of public office.” Hayworth, a onetime TV newscaster, served six terms in the House of Representatives before leaving in 2006 after an election loss.

* Cumulus Media names Chuck Bortnick as Northeast Regional Vice President, effective March 1. The Northeast region includes the company's 19 radio outlets in Bridgeport, Danbury, Westchester and Poughkeepsie. Bortnick most recently was EVP of the Jack FM radio brand for SparkNet Communications. He previously was COO of Westwood One and President of Metro Networks. "I am thrilled to be returning to the station side of the business," says Bortnick, who once was VP & GM of WFAN-AM, New York. "Having worked with the Cumulus management team for many years, it will be exciting to join the company and grow its business and brands in New York and Connecticut." Co-COO John Dickey says of Bortnick, "Chuck is one of the most well-rounded managers and broadcasters in our business today. He understands what it takes to build a great team. Chuck has worked with some of the best brands in our business and will be a great addition to our management team." Bortnick has also held radio management roles in Miami, Houston and Cleveland.

* Gary Miles will consult SparkNet's partnership with Dial-Global for the Jack FM brand in the U.S. SparkNet signs with Gary L. Miles International Consultants to “quarterback the relationship with Dial Global and the Jack FM brand” for the brand's U.S. growth, as EVP Chuck Bortnick exits for his new position with Cumulus Media, March 1. Miles most recently was International EVP for Mass 2 One Media (M2O). "It is a privilege to assist in the next stage of growth for Jack FM," says Miles, who previously was CEO of Rogers Broadcasting group in Canada for 17 years where he developed the Jack FM Variety Hits format. "The Jack brand has been offering solutions to the radio industry at a time when solutions are much needed." SparkNet Co-President Garry Wall tells us, "We share great history with Gary through much successful collaboration. In addition to being one of the original Jack pioneers, Gary will bring his one-two punch of deep experience and passion into our US network." In his most recent position, Miles was the first radio CEO to successfully deploy M2O's database listener engagement program.

* Tim Schiavelli is promoted to VP of Research at research and consulting firm Broadcast Architecture. Since joining Broadcast Architecture five years ago, Schiavelli has conducted research studies and strategy sessions for radio clients across the U.S., and in Europe and Latin America. "This is a great moment for both Tim and for Broadcast Architecture," says BA Owner & President Allen Kepler. "As we enter a new chapter as an independent company, this recognition places Tim among our veteran team of VP’s and sets the stage for continued growth for both BA and our partners. As this news goes out, Tim is on the road working with clients to overcome challenges and implementing winning strategies. Tim loves his career and it shows in the results he achieves with our international group of radio partners." Schiavelli adds, "In my five years with Broadcast Architecture, I've had the pleasure of working side-by-side with some of the brightest and most driven people I've met in my life. It's been an incredible experience so far, and I'd like to thank Allen Kepler for giving me the opportunity to grow with BA and to further develop my relationships with my colleagues and clients around the world. I look forward to many more years of working with the BA team to provide the highest-quality media research available!"

* CBS Radio is no longer offering Web streaming of its radio stations outside the U.S. TPMedia Correspondent Ken Matthews reports exclusively for NewsPage that while on a weekend assignment outside the U.S., he discovered the streaming had ceased to be available. Matthews says his curiousity piqued after being told that CBS Radio was no longer allowed to cross American borders, he discovered that music royalty issues were the reason. An employee of CBS in his fulltime job, he says his company told him it will not pay the royalties in other countries because it's been determined it was cost-prohibitive, and as an exec explained to him Sunday night (Feb. 14), "It's bad enough what we've got to pay in this country." When he questioned why Talk stations were also unavailable, he was told the CBS player, operated jointly with AOL, is not yet able to separate the stations. However, reports Matthews, that may be a bug that can be corrected "at some point in the future." Meanwhile, a CBS spokesperson says, "Listeners outside the U.S. can access Last.fm where they can create endless personalized radio stations, watch videos, discover new artists, and learn more about their favorite musicians and events in their area."

* New York's "Pulse 87" returns — but only online. The station that signed off in New York City on 87.7 FM in late October returns in an online-only version, offering the same Dance music, with the same liners and sweepers that were used on-air. The station is airing without hosts for now, but there are reports with that live DJs, mixshows and appearances are planned for the future. "Pulse 87" is online at www.pulse87ny.com.

* Moody's raises its rating on Clear Channel Communications, saying its outlook is now "stable." Moody's indicates that bankruptcy or restructuring by the radio giant is no longer likely. The investment firm raised the privately-held Clear Channel's rating to Caa2, while revising the outlook from "negative." That indicates that Clear Channel is now likely to remain in compliance with its debt covenants. The refinancing of a $2.5 billion loan to Clear Channel Outdoor, along with cost reductions and repayment of about $2 billion of bank debt with proceeds from new senior notes "will provide ample covenant cushion," says Moody's. Before refinancing, Clear Channel had been at risk of breaching its covenants. Clear Channel's debt load remains high, however — and Moodys says the company will not likely have enough cash to pay off $3.7 billion of debt maturing in 2014. That means more debt restructuring will be needed, says Moody's. However, the "stable" rating means Moody's doesn't expect to make another rating change on the company over the next 12 to 18 months.

* Triple-A "Live 100.5" WWMM-FM, Birmingham, will flip to a News-Talk format within the next six to 10 days. The Birmingham News reports the timetable for the change was confirmed Sunday (Feb. 14) by "a source at owner Citadel Broadcasting," although the published report also says Citadel Birmingham Operations Manager Ryan Haney declined comment. Word of the format flip first began spreading last week, and loyal listeners launched a Facebook group – "Save Live 100.5!" – to try to convince Citadel not to end the music format. By Sunday afternoon, the Facebook group had more than 13,500 members. According to The Birmingham News, the new FM station will be simulcasting WAPI-AM, which bills itself as "1070 Alabama's Big Talker." The FM will become "NewsTalk 100 WAPI-FM." The new station already has its own Facebook group, "Newstalk One-Hundred Wapi." WAPI-AM currently airs the locally produced "Matt Murphy Show" weekday mornings, along with syndicated shows, including Neal Boortz and Sean Hannity. The FM station is expected to carry the same programs. Reportedly, "Live 100.5" has now ousted its live hosts and is airing its same music unhosted until the new format begins.

* Classic Hits "Magic 97.3" WRAK, Albany, GA, flips to "Gen-X Radio" with new calls WGEX. The new format features music from the 80s and 90s, focusing on active women 25-44, with hits from Grunge, Hip Hop, Hair Bands, Boy Bands and other categories. Music featured includes artists such as U-2, Eminem, Dave Matthews, Madonna, and Pearl Jam. Operations Manager Mark Thompson says, "Albany's new Gen-X Radio is the newest concept in American radio. Unlike traditional radio formats, Gen-X Radio is not defined by one genre; rather it's the feel and vibe present in pop culture at the time." . The station's new Website is online at mygenxalbany.com.

* The Jacobs Media Summer School is set to debut at The Conclave's Summer Learning Conference in July. The 35th annual Learning Conference opens July 15 in Minneapolis. The Jacobs Media Summer School is an educational event. "We're excited about presenting our version of Summer School at this year's Conclave," says Jacobs Media President Fred Jacobs. "Consulting at its roots is about teaching, and we'll be focusing on the fundamentals of great radio programming, presented in an entertaining way by the Jacobs staff, along with some special guests." More info is available at www.theconclave.com.

* The FCC extends filing deadlines because of weather-related delays and FCC closings. The record snowstorms caused the Commission to close early on Friday, February 5, and remain closed until Thursday, February 11. As a result, all paper and electronic filings that were due between February 5 and 12 were given until Tuesday (Feb. 16). If you missed that extended deadline to file ... you are now still late!

* Rich Bott will take over, from his retiring father, as President & CEO at Bott Radio Network. Founder Dr. Dick Bott is retiring from the company, with the younger Bott replacing him. Rich Bott, who joined the network full-time in 1981, has been serving as EVP. His father will remain Chairman of the Board. "The need for the clear teaching and preaching of God's Word has never been greater, here in the United States and around the world," says Rich Bott. "I intend for Bott Radio Network to honor the past, serve in the present and anticipate the future. I'm excited about the future with its new technology innovations, together with the power and reach of today's terrestrial AM and FM radio. But it is our original vision — to get the Word of God into the People of God to change lives and make a difference for eternity — that really excites me."

* Television, as promised, has begun its support of radio's fight against the Performance Rights Act. Not only are TV stations airing anti-PRA spots, but some are running reports on the clash, and giving viewers a clear picture of radio's position in the battle with the RIAA-backed musicFIRST coalition. One example is this news item from Gray Television's WIFR-TV, Rockford, IL: "If it seems the same songs play on the radio, get used to it because such repetitiveness could be getting worse. 97 ZOK [WZO0K-FM, Rockford] Program Director Sweet Lenny says he's dealing with a different type of pay to play politics. 'If you want to play new music, you have to pay the record labels to do it,' he said. Lenny, along with many other broadcasters nationwide, is fighting a proposed 'Performance Tax.' It's where radio stations would be required to pay royalties to record labels and individual artists. That’s on top of thousands already spent each year on copyright fees. 'It would change everything, I mean, no more new music, lost jobs, there would be no more local radio' said Lenny. Some lawmakers want the tax to help the music industry recover from a downed economy and make it financially easier for performers to compete with i-pods and other digital media sources that give songs away for free. U.S. Representative John Conyers of Michigan is the sponsor of a performance tax bill currently in the house. He says the goal of his legislation is not meant to drive broadcasters into bankruptcy but to ensure that artists get paid their fair compensation. He says that he's willing to work with performance tax opponents to find a middle ground."

* The next FCC workshop on "Future of Media and the Information Needs of Communities" will be held March 4. "Serving the Public Interest in the Digital Era" will focus on commercial media, with an agenda including a brief history and overview of "public interest" policies; local commercial broadcast TV and radio news and information; and the impact of media convergence and the emergence of new media on FCC media policy.

* The PPM Coalition fires another round as the war over Arbitron's Portable People Meters again heats up. Angry that Arbitron is suing Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS) for ditching PPM encoding — and after the ratings company obtained a temporary restraining order (TRO) forcing PPM Coalition member SBS to reinstate encoding — the PPM Coalition files an ex parte letter with the FCC renewing its previous call for a Commission investigation of the Portable People Meter technology, and the effect of its use on minority broadcasters. The Coalition also includes Entravision, Univision Radio, ICBC Broadcast Holdings, and others, in addition to SBS. In the ex parte letter lawyers for the PPM Coalition say Arbitron "escalated its attack on minority targeted radio broadcasters" by filing for and obtaining the TRO. SBS has complied and reconnected PPM encoders at stations in five markets, saying it was complying with the order from New York State Supreme Court Judge Shirley Kornreich to reinstall the units "temporarily." A hearing on whether to make the order permanent is set for Tuesday (Feb. 15). Arbitron filed a breach of contract lawsuit, alleging that SBS violated its agreement when it ceased encoding. The letter to the Commission says SBS "has attempted to work directly with Arbitron to address the concerns raised by both minority broadcasters and Congress during the recent Congressional hearings" and that the company requested that Arbitron issue a credit "in accordance with the terms of the parties' contract." However, firing up their anti-PPM battle, the Coalition's attorneys write, "Without any explanation, Arbitron rejected SBS's contractual demand, prompting SBS to suspend its license payments. In retaliation, Arbitron ceased providing any ratings data to SBS about seven weeks ago. Last week SBS terminated the broadcast of PPM encoding data." The attorneys also say Arbitron has claimed a breach of contract "without adequately putting the contracts in perspective related to the ongoing proceedings." They refer to proceedings before the FCC — where a Notice of Inquiry has been issued as the Commission seeks to determine if it has jurisdiction — and before Congress. A hearing was held in December by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform to look at the potential effects of the PPM on minority radio.

* Armada Media is sued by lender Wells Fargo Foothill over an alleged default on a $16.2 million debt. Armada Media, a midwestern radio group, owns 28 stations. The lender alleges Armada failed to make payments on principal from August through October. However, Armada denies that. Wells Fargo Foothill asked a Fond du Lac County circuit judge to place Armada in receivership, saying the firm has shown it can't pay its obligations and is either "insolvent or in imminent danger of insolvency," reports Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Hearings on appointing a receiver have been postponed. Minority shareholder Tommy Thompson, the former Secretary of Health and Human Services and Governor of Wisconsin, says both sides are negotiating and he's optimistic an agreement can be reached. "Everybody should be happy," Thompson said. CEO Chris Bernier says, "We're dealing with a situation like a lot of companies in America right now. The banks do what they have to do to protect their interests and protect their rights." He adds, "But the fact that a hearing has been postponed and not rescheduled is obviously positive."

* Clear Channel Cincinnati moves ESPN Radio to Sports WCKY-AM from WSAI-FM, February 15. WCKY, as "ESPN 1530," will carry all of ESPN Radio's programming including Mike and Mike in mornings. WCKY will continue as the flagship for the Cincinnati Bengals, also carrying University of Kentucky and University of Louisville football and basketball, while adding Major League Baseball. WSAI will be rebranded as "Fox Sports 1360" and will carry the full Fox Sports Radio lineup. Clear Channel is making the moves because WCKY has a 50kw signal, while WSAI broadcasts at 5kw. "The most powerful brand in sports, ESPN, is now combined with the most popular afternoon drive sports talk show in the Cincinnati market," says Program Director Tony Bender. "Plus, some of the biggest events in sports will be combined in one place, on ESPN1530! New ratings research has shown The Mike and Mike Morning Show to be one of the top shows in the market each morning for male consumers. This move gives the sports fan access to Mike and Mike on a much more powerful signal." With WKCY rebranded from "1530 Homer The Sports Animal" to "ESPN 1530," WCKY's www.1530homer.com Website is being rebranded as www.homer247.com. Blogs by Lance McAlister, Mo Egger, and Nick Brunker stay on the rebranded site, along with sports and lifestyle news. "ESPN 1530" launches a new Website at espn1530.com.

* News-Talk KSTP-AM, Minneapolis, flips to Sports Talk, February 15, and will later add ESPN Radio. An open letter from Hubbard Radio President & General Manager Ginny Morris on KSTP's Website tells of the station's past history and then says, "On Monday, February 15, we evolve again, and you will know us as AM1500 The SportsTalk Station. Joe Soucheray and Patrick Reusse invented SportsTalk in this town – arguably in the country – and we look forward to featuring them together every afternoon. They are wonderfully talented entertainers and storytellers, as individuals and as a team, and they will anchor our new line-up that we think you will enjoy. Patrick will be heard each day from noon to 2p.m. Joe and Patrick together from 2 to 4p.m., then from 4-6p.m. 'The Mayor' [Soucheray] resumes the magical theater of 'Garage Logic.' For three years, we have enjoyed a tremendous partnership with the Minnesota Twins, and this new position enhances and strengthens our relationship with the Twins and their many fans. We look forward to being up and running before the Twins' inaugural season at Target Field. Also, at the center of these changes will be a new partnership with ESPN, the worldwide leader in sports coverage. ESPN has a contractual obligation to another outlet in town for a period of time, but beginning Monday you will hear the Colin Cowherd program from 9a.m. to noon. Soon, we will also bring you ESPN's "Mike and Mike In The Morning," and some other great ESPN programming throughout the week. When those pieces are able to unfold, we will change our name to 1500 ESPN Twin Cities. We are excited to embrace the next phase in our history, and we truly thank you for listening to the new AM1500 The SportsTalk Station." Shawn Prebil and Chris Murphy, midday host Kelly Webb, and evening host Al Malmberg are all out. Current afternoon host Joe "Mr. Phunn" Anderson, who joined the station last month, will do a local morning show while the station waits to begin its ESPN affiliation. He'll to 6-7pm after affiliate status is in place.

* Protests continue over the format flip of WROW-AM, Albany, NY, from "News Talk 590" to a music format. A group of some 40 "disgruntled individuals" gathered in the parking lot of Pamal Broadcasting, Saturday (Feb. 13) to protest the company’s recent decision to replace the News-Talk format of WROW (590 AM) with a simulcast of "Magic 100.9" WKLI. Troy-based The Record reports, however, "Radio listeners aren’t feeling the Magic." Eliminating the Talk format took many Conservative political talk show hosts, such as Glenn Beck, off the airwaves in New York State's Capital District. Chuck Benfer, General Manger of the station, stepped outside briefly to say hello to the protesters and to apologize for any inconvenience the change may have caused them. However, he stood by his decision. “It was a decision that was made for a lot of reasons. None of them were political, despite what some people may think,” said Benfer. “The combination of the music with a good news and information presentation is a good product for any radio station, including the AM dial, and it frees up a good opportunity for us on 100.9 FM.” Benfer stood his ground as protesters yelled that they would never listen to the station again and told him that the station should have done more advertising so that it could have saved the morning show and national programs that local residents want to hear. “I certainly appreciate your opinion,” Benfer responded. “I’ve only been here for a few months, but it hasn’t been a product that’s been working out financially and wasn’t one that had a great future.”

* Regent Communications' WFNT-AM, Flint, MI, flips to "Flint's News Talk 1470." WFNT drops its longtime "Unforgettable 1470" Adult Standards format in favor of talk, starting the day with "Wall Street Journal Report," followed by "The Bob & Tom Show." The move brings back the syndicated Bob & Tom to the market. "The duo was heard for a number of years on Regent rocker WWBN-FM 101.5 before being dropped in favor of the Grand Rapids based Free Beer & Hot Wings show which is syndicated out of Regent's WGRD-FM 97.9," reports Michiguide.com. "Best of" shows from Bob & Tom also fill the overnight hours. WFNT previously featured a News-Talk format prior to switching to Adult Standards ten years ago. Syndicated talk hosts also added include Laura Ingraham, Jerry Doyle and Mark Levin. The format flip was precipitated by the end of Citadel Media's "Timeless" format.

* "Lake Hartwell Radio" WLHR, Lavonia, GA, is back on the air two weeks after the station's tower collapsed. WLHR is back on using temporary facilities thanks to Toccoa Falls College noncommercial Religion WRAF, which supplied its backup transmitter to allow WLHR to return to the air. The station's tower was toppled in what the station believes was an act of sabotage. The station came back at 70% power over the weekend, and expects to have a full signal this week.

* Noncommercial WVIA-FM, Wilkes Barre-Scranton, remains off the air after a fire destroyed its transmitter building. Also affected was PBS affiliate WVIA-TV. The stations are owned and operated by Northeastern Pennsylvania Educational Television Association. The FM station is broadcasting some of its programming over the lower-powered signal of Marywood College's WVMW, Scranton, until a new transmitter can be installed later this week to return WVIA-FM to the air. The TV station is available on cable and has reactivated its former over-the-air digital allocation and transmitter on channel 49, requiring viewers to rescan to get the signal.

* The FCC rules that perpetual programming agreements violate Commission rules. The Commission says endless contracts are "per se 'unreasonably lengthy' and unacceptable because they inhibit a licensee's ability to structure its programming to be responsive to the current needs of its audience." The FCC ruled in a case between Rocking M Radio and Steckline Communications, granting Rocking M's request for a declaratory ruling that affiliation agreements two of its stations had with Steckline for programming violated Commission rules. Rocking M flipped the stations to Spanish language formats and told Steckline it would no longer carry the English-language programming or commercials. Steckline then sued Rocking M for breach of contract. The stations — KSMM-AM & FM, Liberal, KS — had carried Mid-America Ag Network and Mid-America News Network. In this specific case, the FCC determined that the contracts, which were written when Lawrence Steckline held a majority interest in the then-licensee, involved "self-dealing" and reserved the right for the Stecklines to use the facilities "in clear violation" of FCC rules. Rocking M said the prospect of monetary damages for breaching agreements has a "chilling effect," but the FCC did not rule out actual damages on principle, saying if it did so, "licensees could ignore their program-related contractual obligations with impunity." Rocking M also raised the issue of 40-year contracts Steckline's Mid-America Ag Network has with a Steckline station in Nebraska that includes an agreement not to change to a foreign-language format or a format that would "render network programming inappropriate." The FCC agreed with Rocking M that "such provisions are inconsistent with licensees' obligation to retain independent control over material broadcast on their stations."

* The New York State Supreme Court issues a temporary order requiring SBS to resume encoding for PPM. The Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) requires Spanish Broadcasting System to resume encoding for Arbitron's Portable People Meter until Tuesday (Feb.16). The order applies to nine SBS radio stations in five markets. Arbitron also says it suspended delivery of PPM data to SBS in December. Arbitron sought the TRO last week after learning that SBS had ceased encoding its broadcast signals for PPM at any of its radio stations in markets in which Arbitron has commercialized PPM. The court will convene a hearing Tuesday to determine whether to continue to require SBS to encode under its agreement with Arbitron. Says Arbitron Chief Legal Officer Timothy Smith, "SBS has existing contracts with Arbitron for both the PPM service and to encode its broadcast signals that remain in effect. We expect SBS to honor the terms of its agreements." SBS, as a member of the PPM Coalition, has been among the leaders of an effort to have the FCC investigate the PPM methodology and its effects on minority radio. SBS CRO Frank Flores has been among the most outspoken critics of PPM. The FCC has opened a Notice of Inquiry on PPM, but so far there's been no formal investigation. In question is whether the FCC has jurisdiction, and that is among the topics of the NOI. The PPM Coalition also includes the Association of Hispanic Advertising Agencies, Entravision, ICBC Broadcast Holdings, the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council, and Univision Radio, which last year declined to renew PPM contracts in some markets.

* Arbitron says Fall 2009 diary enhancements raised its average CPO (Cellphone Only) samples. Arbitron raised its average CPO samples from 10% to 15% in its 2009 diary survey, according to SVP of Marketing Bill Rose during an online conference call Thursday (Feb. 11). Rose says the 18-34 Designated Delivery Index (DDI) for 18-34s grew 15% on average across all markets when compared to the Fall 2008 ratings survey. The number of markets meeting or exceeding the 18-34 DDI benchmark of 70 has also increased, rising 48% in diary markets from 21% a year earlier. Arbitron plans to implement changes in the Spring book, scaling the CPO sampling to better match "the characteristics of individual markets." It will also extend incentive programs used for households that include an adult 18-34. The program is expected to raise DDI benchmark for that demographic to an 80 in the Spring book. "It's not necessarily going to be a lock" that Arbitron will reach that benchmark in every market, saus Rose. "We feel it's important that we stretch ourselves and aim for a higher level." Rose also said that the ratings giant is "committed to doing a better job" of communicating with clients. Through this year, Arbitron plans to increase the CPO sample for diary markets by 50%, which would increase them to 15% across all diary markets. The company also plans to expand promised incentives to homes with women aged 18-34 in addition to the existing men aged 18-34.

* Talk KFI-AM, Los Angeles, is bringing in Toronto host Bill Carroll, as Bill Handel's syndicated midday show ends. Carroll will arrive from "News Talk 1010" CFRB-AM, Toronto, February 22, airing noon-2pm. Handel is ending his syndicated midday show, for which KFI is the flagship station. He will continue his local KFI morning show and weekend syndicated "Handel on the Law." That show, and the ending middayer, are distributed by Premiere Radio Networks, originating from Clear Channel's KFI. "I definitely underestimated how much having a second show would eat up my day," says Handel. "That’s why I’m leaving the noon show behind – that, and the fact that no one wants to hear that much from me, not even my wife!" KFI Program Director Robin Bertolucci tells us, "The noon show has been taking its toll on Bill and his morning show since the day it launched. Bill's tremendously talented and we need all of his energy to go into his 5-9am show." The PD adds, "Bill Carroll is a wonderful find! He is smart, articulate and one of the best storytellers in radio. KFI listeners will absolutely love him!"

* Northern California Public Broadcasting (NCPB) names John Boland as President & CEO. Boland succeeds Jeff Clarke, who is retiring March 19. NCPB operates three San Francisco TV stations and two radio stations, including KQED radio and TV. Boland is the former Chief Content Officer for PBS. He held several posts with KQED before joining PBS, including EVP and CEO. Boland is a former daily newspaper reporter and editor. His resume also includes stints with Burson-Marsteller and Hill & Knowlton.

* Donny Osmond says he is still working on his radio voice. "It's interesting, because, I've got to find my radio voice and I'm almost there," he tells the Deseret News. "I like 90% of it," he said noting that when he's on TV his style of speaking takes on a more presentation/hype quality, whereas on the radio he wants a more friendly and casual style — "like I'm your best frined." Osmond's new syndicated radio show airs on some five dozen radio stations. "I'm loving it," Osmond, 52, says. "It really works well into my schedule." Thanks to his laptop, he can record the show from just about anywhere — his dressing room, hotel room or from home. "It's just so convenient. I go into my own little world and produce my radio show, by myself." Osmond told the Deseret News nationally he's gotten a mostly a positive reaction to the new radio show. The only negatives, at least from radio program directors, was to "slow it (my talking) down and be more conversational." But says Osmond, "It takes time to find your niche. You've got to be patient."

* The Radio Television Digital News Association elects five new regional directors. The five were elected to serve two-year terms on the RTDNA Board of Directors. KOA-AM, Denver, News Director Kathy Walker will represent Region 1 and Region 3. KSHB-TV, Kansas City, News Director Peggy Phillip will represent Region 4 and Region 5. News 8, Austin, News Director Kevin Benz will represent Region 6. Randy Bell, News Director at WMSI-FM, WQJQ-FM and WJDX-AM, Jackson, MS, will represent Region 8 and Region 9. WCVB-TV, Boston, News Director Andrew Vrees will represent Region 10. Regional directors begin serving their two year terms at the close of the RTDNA annual convention. RTDNA members will elect a new Chairperson-Elect and two Directors-at-Large during the convention, April 11-14 in Las Vegas. The announced candidate for Chairperson-Elect is Kevin Benz of News 8 Austin. For the two Director-at-Large slots, there are four candidates: Marshall Adams, News Director, KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh; David Louie, Reporter, KGO-TV, San Francisco; Chip Mahaney, Director of Digital Content, E.W. Scripps Co.; and, Mary Rogus, Associate Professor, Ohio University. RTDNA voting members may nominate additional candidates at the Las Vegas convention.

* The NAB praises broadcasters for their news and weather coverage of recent historic snow storms. "NAB salutes coverage of the record-breaking snow storms across huge segments of America in the last week, which stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring value of free and local broadcasting," says NAB President & CEO Gordon Smith. "Broadcasters have always been a lifeline in times of crisis, but never more so than in recent days for millions of Americans living in the path of these historic storms. "Put simply, there is no technology that matches the reliability and immediacy of a local broadcast signal delivering credible information to thousands of people simultaneously. NAB thanks the scores of dedicated personnel at local radio and television stations and the broadcast networks for their distinguished public service." In a news release, NAB writes: "As noted by several consumer and trade news publications, many local stations across the storm region pre-empted regularly-scheduled programming and limited commercials for continuous news coverage of the 2010 snow storms. The local broadcast efforts were recognized by The Baltimore Sun ("Baltimore TV goes all live, local for second storm"), The Philadelphia Inquirer ("Local TV news comes through in the storm"), the New York Daily News ("Winter storm blows in exceptional - and unusual - snow coverage by Ch. 4 WNBC"), The Washington Post ("Weather coverage lets local TV stations such as WUSA, WRC and WJLA stand out"), Broadcasting & Cable ("As the Snowy World Turns"), and NTS MediaOnline ("'Snowlapalooza!' 2010," "Blizzard challenges Philly and NYC stations, too," and "Nothing like a team-building sleepover"), among others."

* Legendary Detroit radio personality and Hall of Fame broadcaster Dick Purtan announces his retirement. After 45 years on the air in the market, the past 14 hosting morning drive on CBS Radio’s Classic Hits WOMC, he will retire March 26. "I was trying to put off retirement until the NFL Lions made it to the Super Bowl," says Purtan, "but frankly, I’ve got to get some sleep." He adds, "It’s been my honor to have been welcomed into the homes and lives of the people of Southeast Michigan for the part 45 years. It’s been a ball — and besides all of the fun, I hope we’ve made a difference." Says VP & Market Manager Debbie Kenyon, "Unfortunately, we are losing a legend. No one has made more of an impact on Detroit radio than Dick Purtan. He is truly one-of-a-kind. Millions of people have woken up to Dick’s voice in the morning. His departure will leave a void I’m not sure anyone can fill." Purtan announced his forthcoming retirement on his show, Thursday morning (Feb. 11). [Hear it here from TPMedia.] His co-host Jackie Purtan held back tears at the thought of not working with her father everyday. "It's hard to see him go," said Jackie Purtan.

* Journal Communications reports a 16.4% drop in Q4 revenue to $112.2 million from $134.3 million. Operating earnings of $15.4 million included a $1.2 million non-cash impairment charge for broadcast licenses and a $1 million charge for workforce reductions. Excluding the charges and a $336.3 million non-cash impairment charge, operating earnings grew 40.4% to $17.6 million from $12.6 million. The company's broadcasting unit fell to $46.1 million from $53.1. million. Journal reports net earnings of $7.2 million (12 cents per diluted share) as compared to a net loss of $223 million ($4.46) in the year-ago period. Excluding the impact of the $228.7 million after-tax non-cash impairment charge, earning per share was 12 cents. "In a year where revenue has been challenged, we closed 2009 with our strongest quarter," says Journal Chairman & CEO Steven Smith. "We showed sequential improvements in revenue comparisons throughout the quarter, including an improving automotive category. This revenue performance, together with significant, and in many cases permanent reductions in our cost structure, resulted in increased operating margins and net earnings for the quarter."

* Genesis Group is selling non-commercial Spanish Contemporary Christian WGES-FM, Miami, for $2.5 million. The buyer is Calvary Chapel of Kendall, FL. The Genesis Group, headed by President & founder Edwin Ortiz, also owns Miami's WGNK-FM, which airs Spanish Christian as "La Nueva 88.3." The WGES deal was brokered by Miami-based Julio Rumbaut for Genesis, and Mark Jorgenson for Calvary Chapel.

* Hit Parade Radio planned a "soft launch" of its 24/7 Oldies programming, Saturday (Feb. 13). Hit Parade Radio (HPR) is led by President John Rook, a 30-year programmer whose stations have included WLS, Chicago, and KABC, Los Angeles. "We've been waiting for this moment for some time now and we are extremely excited about the debut of our unique product," says Rook. HPR VP of Operations Liz Doyle adds, "With this superstar lineup, affiliates will now have not only the best oldies music format, but also some of America's top radio talent available in their markets." HPR, operating on Clear Channel Satellite, also announces that Ron Foster, who spent more than 20 years in afternoons for Satellite Music Networks' Pure Gold format, joins the HPR lineup for 7pm-midnight. The lineup also includes Chuck Brinkman, 6-10am; Wink Martindale, 10am-3 pm; and Larry Lujack, 3-7pm.

* A revised Fall 2009 Arbitron ratings eBook for Altoona, PA, was due out Friday (Feb. 12). The ratings company is adding 20 diaries to the Fall 2009 Altoona Metro In-Tab sample. The diaries were returned from diarykeepers residing in Blair County in the Altoona Metro, but were processed as non-Metro TSA diaries for the previously released report. Arbitron tells customers, "Audience estimates for stations that received substantial listening in the diaries may be significantly affected in particular demos and dayparts. In addition, estimates for stations that were not recorded in the additional diaries may be slightly affected as a result of sample balancing and reprocessing procedures required to appropriately add diaries to the In-Tab sample."

* Bridge Ratings finds overall interest in Howard Stern, down since his terrestrial radio exit, is now up again. A report from Bridge Ratings, studying Howard Stern's audience as part of its ongoing satellite radio studies, indicates that while interest in Stern among his listeners remains high, in the five years since he joined Sirius Satellite Radio, among non-satellite subscribers, interest has waned. However, Bridge Ratings finds in its "Howard Stern Interest Index" — available here from TPMedia — recent general interest in Stern has again spiked. That's attributed to news of Stern's contract negotiations with Sirius XM, and related reports of alternate possibilities for the shock jock — including a possible return to over-the-air radio and Stern becoming an "American Idol" judge. Says Bridge Ratings President Dave Van Dyke, "Interest among satellite radio subscribers in anything Howard Stern does has continued to be strong, but as you would expect, once off terrestrial radio, non-subscribers – over time – lost interest. However, in the last few months of 2009 through today, his contract negotiation publicity has reawakened non-subscribers to his satellite show. In fact, since we interview on a weekly basis, we saw significant interest increase around the American Idol news in recent weeks."

* Erich “Mancow” Muller and Pat Cassidy are out at Citadel's News-Talk WLS-AM, Chicago. Chicago media reporter Robert Feder calls it "Radio earthquake" as he writes that new WLS President & General Manager Michael Damsky fired “Mancow” after 16 months as midday personality, saying the 9-11am show "just wasn't the bridge" the station needed. Also out in the shakeup is 40-year radio veteran Cassidy, who'd been Muller’s co-host and straight man. Cassidy is expected to be returning to CBS Radio All-News WBBM-AM, where he’d anchored mornings before joining WLS in August 2008. Damsky tells Feder, “Mancow has been an outstanding talent and an ideal employee in every respect. Unfortunately, he does not fit the needs of the radio station as we try to fulfill a very clear vision of what listeners expect, and try to restore credibility to conservative talk. We thank him and Pat Cassidy for their contributions, and wish them both well.” Mancow will continue to originate his daily syndicated Talk Radio Network show from the WLS studios. Muller, reacting to the shakeup says, “There’s no rhyme or reason to this business. I’ve stopped trying to figure it out. I thought we were doing a great show. I think it had a lot of interesting elements, and I’m proud of the show we did.” Replacing Muller and Cassidy from 9-11am weekdays, effective Thursday (Feb. 11), is Cisco Cotto, who’s been co-hosting Roe Conn’s afternoon show on WLS since he returned to the station last month from Salem Communications News-Talk WIND-AM. "By most accounts, Conn and Cotto did not mesh particularly well on the air," writes Feder. New partners for Cotto in middays and Conn in afternoons are expected to be named soon. Earlier this week, Ron Magers returned as a regular contributor to Conn’s show. The top news anchor at ABC-owned WLS-TV Channel 7 had been a staple of Conn's afternoon show for 12 years before he was axed in a budget cut last December. Feder writes, at Blogs.Vocalo.org, that the latest talent shuffle was engineered by Damsky, who was promoted to president and general manager of WLS on January 15, and by Drew Hayes, who was hired by Damsky as Operations Director two weeks later.

* The Radio Mercury Awards will move this year to Advertising Week in September, in New York City. "The Radio Mercury Awards' move to Advertising Week builds on the momentum from last year's competition where we sought to elevate radio advertising creative and partner with the creative community to do so," says RAB President & CEO Jeff Haley. For the first time, there will be co-chairs for the live final-round judging: Martin Agency President and co-Chief Creative Officer Mike Hughes and co-Chief Creative Officer John Norman. "We're honored to have Mike and John lead the judging panel and build a roster of judges that will continue to recognize those that can truly encapsulate what the Radio Mercury Awards stands for, creative excellence in writing and producing radio commercials," adds Haley. Says Hughes, referring to last year's controversy when the judging panel chose not to name finalists in the station-produced category, "John and I are really excited to meet and exceed the bar that was set so high for us from last year's Radio Mercury Awards final round judging panel. I was proud to be a part of that group, and I look forward to co-leading this new group of judges. With the Radio Mercury Awards coinciding with Advertising Week, we have a marvelous opportunity to celebrate radio advertising's best creative work during the pinnacle of the advertising industry's one and only dedicated conference." Ad Week Executive Director Matt Scheckner says, "As we continue to elevate the caliber of Advertising Week across the board, we're thrilled to have the Radio Mercury Awards join the programming slate for 2010." The Radio Mercury Awards have previously been held in June.

* CBS Radio Sports WFAN-AM, New York, adds sister WCBS-TV sports anchors for its "20/20 Sports Update." TV sports anchors Samantha Ryan and Otis Livingston join WFAN's 11pm weeknight program. Ryan currently is a part-time WFAN anchor and previously worked at WFAN full-time. Ryan and Livingston will do the update and promote their TV work. Ryan generally works Monday-Wednesday, while Livingston is on the air Thursday and Friday. This is another step in the CBS strategy to cross-promote and utilize radio and television talent.

* Sports-Talk "The Ticket" KTCK-AM, Dallas, host Mike Rhyner is a victim of an online Facebook scam. Someone hacked into Sharyn Fein's Facebook profile and contacted nearly 50 of her friends, sending each a very convincing message: "I'm in London, I've been robbed and I need your help," asking each to send cash to help. One of those friends was Rhyner, who hosts "The Hardline" on KTCK, reports KTVT-TV, Dallas. Rhyner says he immediately replied, "Is there anything I can do? She said we don't have any money. Our money and credit cards and cell phone were taken." He says he didn't think twice when he wired his dear friend more than $1,000. "This woman is on my no questions asked list. If she needs something from me, I'm there; period, case closed." But when serious doubt settled in, reports KTVT, the radio host did some checking and discovered his friend was not in London. "I was grateful because Mike has my back and it's nice to be loved, but I didn't want to come at that great loss. That was a lot of money" says Fein. "I soon discovered that somebody was acting as me," Fein, a local resident, tells KTVT-TV. "Somebody had been studying who I was and had all my personal information to talk to all of my different friends," says Fein. "I'm absolutely terrified and I'm very upset." Rhyner was able to stop the wire transfer and ultimately got his money back. Fein says she complained to Facebook, but got no results. So the sports talk-show host took to the airwaves to warn his listeners. The station was soon flooded with dozens of emails and phone calls from North Texans who were also approached by a Facebook fraud. (NOTE: Fein is not a radio host as reported elsewhere.)

* MySpace CEO Owen Van Natta unexpectedly resigns after less than 10 months on the job. The Los Angeles Times reports that Van Natta's departure comes as News Corp. struggles to reshape MySpace, a former giant in social networking that has been overtaken by Facebook and confronts new challengers such as Twitter. Van Natta was recruited from Facebook last April. He is being replaced by two of his key lieutenants, COO Mike Jones and Product Chief Jason Hirschorn, who have assumed the titles of Co-Presidents. Both are close to News Corp. Digital Media Chief Jon Miller, with whom Van Natta reportedly clashed. Miller acknowledged in a statement that he had a role in Van Natta's departure. "In talking to Owen about his priorities both personally and professionally going forward, we both agreed that it was best for him to step down at this time," Miller said. There are reports that tensions between Van Natta and Miller had escalated in recent weeks, culminating in Van Natta's departure. When Van Natta joined MySpace, the site's traffic was stagnating — a trend he was unable to reverse. In December, it attracted 70 million visitors, according to ComScore Media Metrix, down from 78 million a year earlier. Facebook more than doubled its monthly traffic to 112 million in that same period. MySpace's drop in traffic has led to it falling $100 million short of the $900 million it expected to receive as part of a deal with Internet search giant Google that is set to expire this year. What's next for the aging social network? News Corp. wants to convert MySpace into a portal that guides users to content such as movies, music, TV shows and games, distancing itself from its social networking origins.

* Katz Radio Group promotes Brady Pocsik to Senior Account Executive with Christal Radio in the Atlanta office. Pocsik began at Katz in 2006 as an AE. Prior to joining Katz, he spent several years as a television sports news anchor and director in Savannah, GA; Laredo, TX, and Monroe, LA. "Brady has demonstrated tremendous work ethic and has built solid relationships during his tenure at Christal Radio," says Christal Radio President Christine Travaglini. "We really appreciate his deep commitment to delivering outstanding service and results for our clients and agencies."

* The MMTC donates $175,000 to Howard University's John H. Johnson School of Communication. The donation from the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council is in support of the school's goals and its capital campaign for a new building. The donation will go into planning the new, state-of-the-art facility along with new equipment and technology. "On behalf of the John H. Johnson School of Communications, we thank the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council for its generous contribution," says Johnson School Dean Jannette Dates. "With significant donations from partners like MMTC, we are confident the school will continue to empower our students with knowledge of communications technology and policy, giving them a competitive edge throughout their careers."

* The Ford Motor Company Fund will continue its support of AWRT's "Empowering America" program. The American Women in Radio and Television say the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company is renewing its alliance with the public service campaign that profiles inspiring women who have pioneered in fields such as science, social reform, public service, sports, journalism, music and aviation. This AWRT- Ford program provides innovative learning tools and educational collateral materials to underprivileged middle schools across the country. "Young women in middle school are at an impressionable time in their lives," says Jim Vella, President of Ford Motor Co. Fund and Community Services. "It is extremely important for this generation to know the stories of strong, successful women to help motivate and inspire them. We are proud to work with AWRT on the Empowering America program to share these stories." Among those set to be profiled in the 2010 booklets are actress-choreographer Debbie Allen, National Council of Negro Women founder Mary McLeod Bethune, reporter Nellie Bly, actress and philanthropist Marlo Thomas, and journalist Soledad O'Brien. Ford is supporting the program for the third consecutive year. Materials will go to schools in 10 cities, and AWRT is also working with the National Middle School Association to get materials to teachers.

* Will Entercom's CEO bring bad news of new cuts to WEEI and WRKO next week? The Boston Herald is speculating that Boston stations WEEI and WRKO may be in for some bad news. Entercom President & CEO David Field is coming to the Hub next week, sparking fears among some radio station employees that more layoffs and other cutbacks are on the horizon. An all-staff meeting is set for 10am Wednesday (Feb. 17) and employees got a one-sentence e-mail telling them their “presence” was requested, reports the Herald. "The visit comes as Entercom sports titan WEEI-AM (850) faces its biggest challenge on the dial in years – WBZ-FM (98.5) 'The Sports Hub,' which launched in August and has been giving WEEI a run for its money in the ratings battle. Another Entercom-owned station, news talker WRKO-AM (680), is also facing some serious competition along with the exodus of some syndicated shows," says the published report. Rival radio station owner Clear Channel plans to poach Rush Limbaugh from WRKO’s lineup when it switches Spanish music station WXKS-AM (1200) into a conservative talker in April. “There’s no way (Field) could be content with the way things are now,” said Brian Maloney, who also reported on the meeting on his blog, savewrko.com. Clear Channel is currently in talks with its subsidiary, Premiere Radio Networks, which syndicates Limbaugh as well as Glenn Beck and the paranormal program “Coast to Coast.” Beck and “Coast” recently disappeared from WRKO’s lineup. Howie Carr reruns have replaced “Coast to Coast” in the overnight slot, a move that had been planned for weeks, according to WRKO Program Director Jason Wolfe. As for Field’s visit, Wolfe said the CEO “comes in often and addresses the staff, just as he does in every other market.”

* Sovereign Communications is purchasing 11 Northern Star Broadcasting radio stations in Michigan. Sault Ste. Marie-based Sovereign's agreement with Northern Star is to purchase their Upper Peninsula stations in a multi-million dollar acquisition that will give Sovereign a total of seven radio stations in the Sault Ste. Marie and Newberry area, where the company already owns WSOO-AM, WSUE-FM, WNBY-AM and WNBY-FM. The deal includes local WYSS-FM, WMKD-FM and WKNW-AM plus, five stations in Marquette and three in Iron Mountain. Sovereign Communications President Bill Gleich says, “We couldn’t be more excited about this purchase. Having these additional stations will allow us to serve the community as well as our advertisers and listeners in even greater ways. I believe we have the best people in the radio business; they’re all very excited about our growth and ready to take on new challenges. I look forward to a smooth transition as we bring the Northern Star stations into the Sovereign Communications family. We’re extremely fortunate to have veteran broadcaster Tom Ewing as our Vice President & General Manager. Tom will take on additional responsibilities and play an important role in the larger company. Personally, as a local kid that grew up here in Sault Ste. Marie and started in the radio business at WSOO at 15 years old, this is a real dream come true for me.” SooToday.com reports that four popular on-air personalities lost their jobs at Northern Star. Also let go were a sales representative and Station Manager Doug Laprade. Sovereign President Bill Gleich tells SooToday that Northern Star Broadcasting terminated all 16 of its Michigan Soo staff and that his company rehired 10 of them. All terminated employees received severance packages. However, says SooToday, "At least two grassroots Facebook campaigns have begun, encouraging listeners and advertisers to boycott the stations until the deejays are rehired."

* Journal Communications is selling its PrimeNet operations in Florida to a new company. That buyer is a company owned by PrimeNet President Mark Keefe. With the sale, Journal Communications signals it's getting out of the direct marketing business. Last week, Journal Communications separately sold PrimeNet's mailing service operations in St. Paul, MN. Terms of the sales were not disclosed. PrimeNet provides nationwide direct marketing solutions to marketers of automotive, retail, publishing and financial services products. Keefe will lead the new company under the name PrimeNet Direct Marketing Solutions LLC. "We are excited to make this transaction happen with the existing PrimeNet team led by Mark Keefe," Steven Smith, Chairman and CEO of Journal Communications, says in a statement. "As Journal Communications focuses on our core local market media businesses, we are confident this business and its employees will continue to successfully execute their strategy." For accounting purposes, Journal Communications will treat the PrimeNet transaction as a discontinued operation in 2010 financial statements. Journal Communications, headquartered in Milwaukee, is a diversified media company with operations in publishing, radio and television broadcasting, interactive media and printing services. Through Journal Broadcast Group, they own and operate 33 radio stations and 13 television stations in 12 states and operate an additional television station under a local marketing agreement.

* The NAB revs up its battle against the Performance Rights Act with new anti-PRA spots. Visitors to a revamped www.NoPerformanceTax.org are greeted by the headline, "Stop the Radio Tax." The Website provides radio's position against the pay-to-play recorded music legislation, as well as offering spots for both radio and television. A front page sub-head reads, "Broadcasters: Act now to defeat a proposed tax that could kill local radio as we know it." There are three new radio spots — one for general use, one for Urban format stations and another for Spanish — plus a pair of television ads, in English and Spanish. Television stations nationwide are now committing to supporting radio's battle against the performance fees in what some see as an unusual show of unity. The new spots are expected to begin flooding the airwaves next week.

* KFWB-AM, Los Angeles, Trustee Bill Clark says he will name Diane Sutter to oversee the station. CBS Radio recently put the one-too-many station into a trust headed by Clark, and he says he will assign day-to-day oversight to Sutter, a former EVP with Shamrock Holdings broadcasting division. Clark is the former President of Shamrock, owned by the Roy Disney family. LARadio.com reports that Clark will officially name Sutter once the FCC gives final approval to the Clark Trust. There shouldn't be any problem with that, as Clark has been the Trustee for a number of CBS stations over the years. “Diane Sutter will represent the Trust in the L.A. Area," says Clark. "She’s my former Executive VP at Shamrock. She’ll be doing all the coordination with KFWB, but I have the ultimate responsibility.” Clark says KFWB "continues to operate as normal." He adds, "One of the basic rules of the Trust – much like doctors – is to do no harm. Our job is to make sure the license is safeguarded and make sure the station is functioning well. It will continue under the same day-to-day station management but they will report to the Trust rather than CBS.”

* Lincoln Financial Media is not looking to sell off its radio stations at this time. Parent Lincoln National sold its Charlotte radio cluster and spun-off its television division a little over two years ago, but Lincoln National CFO Fred Crawford tells a conference call the company is not going to sell any of the remaining 14 radio stations in the forseeable future. Crawford, noting that the company took a write-down on goodwill and intangibles for its radio and TV business, and that the "marketplace has gone through substantial turmoil," calls the media "an upside down industry right now." He says "that’s weighing down on valuations." That means no short term sales are planned, says Craword. "And for us, it suggests being patient and continuing to monitor and manage the properties. These are good properties that perform well in their given markets. We like how they’re positioned, but we think it’s an awfully difficult time to be considering monetizing those investments, and instead we intend to continue to support them for the time being."

* Walt Disney Co. saw sales rise 1% to $9.7 billion and net income roughly flat at $844 million for its fiscal Q1. The net income compares to $845,000 for the same period in the prior year. The company's media networks division, which includess ESPN Radio and Radio Disney but is primarily driven by the company's cable television networks, saw revenues up 7% to $4.18 billion, with operating income up 11% to $724 million. The company doesn't break out results for its radio O&Os. "We are pleased with our first quarter results and are excited about our creative pipeline, from upcoming movies like Alice in Wonderland and Toy Story 3 to new attractions at our parks and resorts," says Disney President & CEO Robert Iger. "Our unique ability to deliver outstanding experiences to consumers across platforms, markets, and businesses gives us a strong competitive advantage and positions us well for long-term growth."

* Lotus Entravision Reps (LER) adds two San Diego stations owned by MVS Radio. LER, a joint venture radio-sales rep firm representing more than 125 Spanish-language stations, adds Regional Mexican "La Mejor" XOCL-FM and Spanish Pop "Exa" XGLX-FM to its San Diego portfolio. LER already reps Imagen Group's "Radio Latino 104.5" XLTN-FM in the market, the 14th largest Hispanic DMA. "Through this partnership with MVS and our existing relationship with Imagen, we're now able to offer the most effective and focused way for national advertisers to reach the highly coveted Hispanic community in the San Diego region," says LER President Phillip Woodie. "We look forward to working with our new partners to further advance advertising opportunities on these leading stations." MVS International Director Manuel Romero adds, "LER's successful track record, in-depth knowledge of this market, and close relationships with the nation’s leading advertisers make them the ideal partner for us."

* "The Huckabee Report" reaches the 500 affiliate mark, reports syndicator Citadel Media. The daily feature, which launched 13 months ago, is hosted by former Arkansas Governor and Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee. "The Huckabee Report has become appointment listening for audiences across the country eager to hear Governor Huckabee's views," says Citadel Media President John Rosso. "Our affiliates and advertisers have recognized the value of this feature as evidenced by rapid affiliate growth and strong advertising bookings. The show is presented with a tone and relevance that truly resonates with his listeners while the writing has provided some of the most memorable quotes on the air today." Citadel Talk WABC-AM, New York, Program Director Laurie Cantillo adds, "Governor Huckabee is a warm and engaging communicator who makes the complicated issues of government less complicated. His passion for radio is reflected in this impressive milestone and we're proud to have him in our station's lineup."

* Country "92.9 The Bear" WLXX, Lexington, KY, replaces its local morning show with a syndicated offering. WLXX will debut Nashville-based "Tony and Kris" Friday (Feb. 12). The new show is syndicated in six markets, says Cumulus Market Manager Hal Hofman. "It really does something for our listeners to put them right on the street in Nashville," says Hofman, noting that Country artists appear on the show regularly. According to Kentucky.com's Lexgo, "The move comes just weeks after morning host Jason Bailey left the station to move to Knoxville, where he bought two radio stations. Bailey has been well-known for his role in the program Bandy and Bailey in the Morning, which began in 1994 and ran until partner Michael Bandy died of kidney and liver failure in late 2008."

* Does Howard Stern have "American Idol" competition from Conan O'Brien? Stern says he's considering an offer to replace Simon Cowell as an "Idol" judge. Now, a report surfaces that the deposed "Tonight Show" host "might be throwing his hat in" as the slate of names continues to grow for Cowell's replacement. “Amy Andrews Gossip Girl” at Irish Central reports that O'Brien "might" offer himself as a candidate, as "Idol" producers "frantically search" for a high-profile replacement for Cowell who is leaving "American Idol" in 2011. Andrews writes of O'Brien that a source says, "Idol bosses think he’d be a huge draw now after all that Leno fuss." Although Stern says of being an AI judge “There’s not a better job on the planet," most observers believe he will not actually take a supposed offer from Fox television. His current contract with Sirius XM expires at the end of this year, and negotiations for a new deal are currently underway. It's widely expected Stern and the satcaster will reach a new deal. That, of course, would eliminate one high-profile competitor for the job if O"Brien really goes after it — which, in itself, is highly unlikely.

* Clear Channel Radio promotes Greg Glenday to National Advertiser Development President. He will serve in his new position for the National Advertiser Platform Group, led by Charlie Rahilly, which marries research insights with creative to develop national business across all Clear Channel Radio business units, including Clear Channel Radio Digital, Clear Channel Radio Sales, Premiere Radio Networks, and more than 850 local stations to implement successful national advertising plans. National ad buyers will have easy access to Clear Channel Radio's multiple platforms to develop campaigns. "This group is able to generate more and better opportunities for national advertisers because we're able to bring in highly-experienced, talented minds such as Greg," says Rahilly. "We look forward to increasing national advertisers' return on their investment by bringing the best of Clear Channel Radio's platform to them in an integrated and seamless way." In his new role, Glenday, a 14-year Clear Channel veteran, will also collaborate with Jeff Howard, President of Clear Channel Radio Sales, and Carol Terakawa, EVP of Premiere Radio Network Sales.

* Cumulus names Joe Kelly as Indianapolis cluster Operations Manager – in a series of moves. Kelly will also serve as Program Director and afternoon drive host at CHR-Top40 "i94" (WRWM). At the same time, Jeff Andrews is named Program Director of CHR-Top40 "Y102" (WHHY), Montgomery, and Steve Smith is named Operations Manager of the company's Huntsville, AL, cluster, and PD and afternoon host at CHR-Top40 "104.3 WZYP," replacing Kelly there. SVP of Programming Jan Jeffries tells us, "Jeff Andrews has done an absolutely fantastic job with the launch and ratings growth of the new i94/Indianapolis. Steve Smith is a veteran Cumulus PD with five years of big numbers and consistency at legendary WHHY Y102. Steve has requested assignment over the past couple of years at WZYP, Huntsville. Request granted, effective February 22, Steve will serve as OM over the cluster and PD & afternoons at WZYP. Our most recent Cumulus PD & OM, Joe Kelly makes a quick move from Huntsville to his midwest roots as cluster OM in Indianapolis and PD & afternoon drive on i94."

* P. Harris Morris is named President of Harris Corp.'s Broadcast Communications business. He previously was VP & General Manager of the Media and Workflow area of the broadcast communications business. Before joining Harris in January 2008, Morris was Chief Strategy Officer for the Thomson Learning Division of Thomson Corp. "I am pleased to have Harris Morris stepping into the role of president of Broadcast Communications," says Harris Corp. CEO Howard Lance. "As vice president of our Media and Workflow business, he has spearheaded our strategy of taking existing hardware and software applications and developing new technology to address emerging media markets like digital out-of-home networks." Morris has also been a VP & Partner for Bain & Company, a business consulting firm where he spent 13 years, and an author, whose work has been published in the Financial Times and Catalyst magazine.

* Penton Media will file a Chapter 11 bankruptcy debt restructuring plan to eliminate about $270 million in debt. The New York-based company is the publisher of Broadcast Engineering and Radio magazine. Penton Media says there will be no layoffs, and operations will be unaffected by the restructuring plan approved by lenders. "This restructuring will allow us to achieve a debt level that is more sustainable in the current economic environment," says CEO Sharon Rowlands. "With a strengthened capital structure, we will be better positioned to fully leverage our operations, which have been and continue to be profitable." The company also says there will be no management changes and it expects to finalize the capital restructuring and emerge from bankruptcy in 30 to 45 days.

* The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces the recipients of the 2010 Ward L. Quaal Pioneer Awards. The awards, announced Tuesday (Feb. 9) in New York, will be presented during the NAB Show on April 14 in Las Vegas. The BFA selected Forecast Broadcasting owner Kerby Confer; Fritts Group Chairman and former NAB President & CEO Eddie Fritts; Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard, LLP partner Wade H. Hargrove; on-air personality Hal Jackson; global media executive I. Martin Pompadur, and Bonneville International President & CEO Bruce T. Reese. The Pioneer Awards are given annually in credit of overarching career contributions to the broadcast industry and the community at large. The awards ceremony will take place during the BFA breakfast at the Bellagio Hotel, April 14.

* Global Traffic Network (GTN) reports revenue is up for its latest fiscal quarter. The New York-based radio and television custom traffic and news report provider — which does all of its business outside of the U.S. — reveals its full financial figures in an SEC filing. GTN Chairman & CEO William Yde III says, "We believe that we have turned a corner this quarter after several difficult quarters related to the global economic environment. Both Australia and Canada sales were higher than the year ago quarter, despite tough comps. During last year's second fiscal quarter, when measured in local currency, Australian revenue was up 27% over the previous year quarter while Canadian revenue was up 46%. To put incremental growth on top of this performance was a monumental achievement. Our U.K. acquisition had another strong quarter in what has been historically its weakest quarter. We believe that these results signify the beginning of improved performance in all our markets. In addition, currency exchange rates, which have had a negative impact on our previous four quarters of reported revenues, had a significant positive impact on our current quarter results and appear poised to be a significant benefit in the fiscal third quarter as well based on the exchange rates to date."

* Satellite Music Network (SMN) co-founder Charlie Strickland is the newest partner at Broadcast Affiliate Sales. The 40-year broadcast veteran, who co-founded SMN and Satellite Radio Network and served as SMN's VP of Affiliate Sales, now takes on his new role of partner at consulting and affiliate-relations provider Broadcast Affiliate Sales (BAS). "I have known Charlie Strickland most of my life, and I believe he knows more about radio networks and syndication than anyone on the planet," says BAS President Mike Tyler. "Charlie was there on day one at Satellite Radio Network and Satellite Music Network, and has been an owner-operator of radio stations. Charlie understands the radio business."

* MySpace Music signs an exclusive deal with TargetSpot for audio ads on the MySpace music player. The agreement marks the first time MySpace Music will offer audio ad inventory alongside display ads. The audio ads will be placed within the MySpace catalog of licensed audio tracks, user-friendly e-commerce solutions, personal music players and user playlists. The new arrangement will allow MySpace to utilize TargetSpot's online advertising platform to tap into brands looking to expand their marketing reach online. Social marketing spending is expected to hit $3.1 billion by 2014, becoming the third largest form of online marketing after search and display advertising. Considering that, TargetSpot says locking down an online radio and audio ad partner is a logical step. CBS Radio-backed TargetSpot is currently the nation's largest Internet radio advertising network with more than 15.3 million unique listeners per month.

* The Rhapsody America music service is about to be spun-off as a separate company from its two founders. RealNetworks and the MTV Networks unit of Viacom plan to spin-off their music service business. into a separate company. Barron's "Tech Trader Daily" reports that under terms of the deal, Real will no longer have operating control of Rhapsody America, and the company will no longer have a single majority owner. Real and MTV will each own slightly under 50%, of the equity of the new company. Real will also kick in $18 million in cash, the Rhapsody brand and certain other assets. Some of Real’s cash will be used to repurchase the international radio business previously contributed to Rhapsody. MTV will contribute a $33 million advertising commitment; a previous $111 million ad commitment will be canceled. There's no word on plans to raise additional capital for the business.

* Wireless Grids Corp. signs an agreement with six Syracuse, NY, Clear Channel Radio stations for a software trial. Wireless Grids Corporation (WGC) announces it's signed a Letter of Agreement with the stations to undertake a product trial of Wireless Grids Corporation's software based solutions, according to a news release. "WGC's product enables a social community of people to dynamically interact with various forms of content on their mobile (and other) devices, seamlessly leveraging its patent pending "edgeware" applications," the company tells us. "We're delighted to be among the very first firms in the country to take advantage of Wireless Grids' new applications," says Clear Channel Radio Syracuse General Manager Joel Delmonico. "We're always interested in exploring new methods of interaction and content distribution for the benefit of our listeners." WGC CEO John Andrews adds, "We are excited to expand product testing with Clear Channel Radio in Syracuse, especially given their considerable audience – reaching more than 60% of the market through the combined power of their six radio stations. We look forward to collaborating with Clear Channel Radio and its distinctive media portfolio on an even greater scale in the future."

* Journal Broadcast Group selects Hipcricket for mobile marketing for Journal's radio and TV stations. Journal, which has been using Hipcricket's services at some stations since 2007, now will use those services companywide for its 33 radio stations and 13 TV stations in 12 markets under the new agreement. "Journal Broadcast Group is one of the country's most respected ownership groups for the autonomy it provides to each of its local stations," says Hipcricket CEO Ivan Braiker. "By equipping them with Hipcricket's mobile marketing platform and superior customer service, they take this to the next level. Hipcricket will further partner with the Journal Broadcast Group stations to increase audience loyalty, heighten sponsor satisfaction, and improve nontraditional revenues. At a time when the broadcast industry is looking for new ways to bolster the bottom line, mobile marketing is a true game-changer." Says Journal Broadcast EVP of Steve Wexler, "Hipcricket really sets the standard for mobile marketing by generating new revenue and engagement with an opted-in audience via mobile phones. It's so much more than just sending out text messages -- it's truly changed the way we communicate with our audience, one that can be easily measured to ensure the successful use of our marketing dollars and those of our advertisers." Hipcricket offers mobile marketing and analytics to broadcast and other industries and has conducted more than 50,000 mobile campaigns.

* Country artist Kix Brooks is launching a new weekday 60-second radio feature, "Just for Kix," starting March 1. Brooks, the host of Citadel Media's "American Country Countdown," will take questions submitted by listeners and answer them on air in the new syndicated daily feature. "Each weekend on the countdown we try to give our fans the latest news on the artists topping the charts as well as a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the world of Country music," says Brooks. "With our new weekday feature, I'll be answering questions taken directly from acctop40.com or the individual station sites. This will be a great way to provide our audience with even more background on what makes the business of Country music tick."

* What Keeps Glenn Beck Up at Night?   Would you believe: reading lots of books? New York Times "Freakanomics" writer, Stephen Dubner, says while Beck has a lot of detractors, as well as fans, his sense is that the detractors have miscast Beck as a know-nothing villain. Dubner writes of his experience that shows him Beck is an avid reader — and, love him or hate him — he proves to be a well-read radio and TV talker. Dubner relates, "A few weeks back, I was a guest on Glenn Beck’s radio show. Something interesting happened before we went on the air. He noticed the book I was carrying — Physics for Future Presidents: The Science Behind the Headlines, by the Berkeley physicist Richard A. Muller — and asked me about it. I endorsed it rather enthusiastically. He said it sounded like a book he’d like to read, so I went ahead and gave him my copy (and, yes, Dr. Muller, I ordered another one for myself)." Then says the "Freakanomics" writer, "A few days later, one of Beck’s producers emailed me to say that Beck too liked the book, and did I have any more recommendations? So I sent him a list.... Then Beck read those books too." Dubner adds, "This was the only time I’d ever done an interview and even had someone ask about the book I happened to have with me at the time, much less want to read it, and then read some others. I was pretty impressed." more...

* Cox Media Group's WHIO-AM, Dayton, OH, celebrates 75 years. To mark the milestone, Mayor Gary Leitzell declared Tuesday (Feb. 9) WHIO Radio Day. WHIO, the first radio station owned by Governor James M. Cox, began broadcasting with 1,000 watts on February 9, 1935. Now, 75 years later, WHIO broadcasts with 5,000 watts, and is regularly among the top five stations in Dayton. It is home to news, traffic and weather updates and is the voice of University of Dayton football and basketball. "WHIO is more than just a radio station, it's a symbol of our founder's vision to innovate, to embrace new technology, take risks and to diversify," says Cox Media Group VP Alex Taylor. "That vision became part of Cox Enterprises' DNA and drove the decisions we made to invest in television, in Manheim, in Cox Communications and many other businesses over the years."

* Katz Radio Group promotes Senior AE Robert Mahoney to Katz Radio VP of Sales. Mahoney began his career at Katz as a sales assistant in in 1999. "Rob's passion knowledge, and perseverance make him a top performer at our company," says Katz Radio President Chad Brown. "We chose him to help launch one of our most important initiatives for 2010, single-point-of-contact selling, as we trusted Rob's ability to implement this model for one of our largest customers. This promotion is well deserved." Also announced, Matthew McCausland is promoted AE to Senior AE for Christal Radio in New York. He's been with Katz since 2006. "The expertise Matt brought with him to Christal helped him achieve impressive success in this challenging market," says Christal President Christine Travaglini. "He is a critical part of our team, and we are very proud of his contributions. We look forward to Matt's future outstanding performance in his new role."

* Katz Media CEO Stu Olds reaffirms a "robust" growth in the radio ad revenue. Olds says Katz sees broad-based growth in all markets and regions. Radio, which finished January up 26%, is pacing 11% higher for February and +13% for March. Overall, the first quarter is pacing up 19%. Olds writes that while 2009 comparisons are favorable, the strength of this turnaround is driven by broad-based category support, tightening marketplaces pushing up pricing and radio’s rediscovered value in the marketing mix." Seven categories, which account for 87% of total National Spot Radio spending, are up in the first quarter — Retail, Finance, Entertainment, Auto, Telecom, Consumer Products, and Professional Services. "This broad-based category lift translates into strong pacing in every market segment and in every region of the country," says Olds. "In fact, all top-25 markets are pacing ahead of last year, with 78 of the top 100 ahead of last year’s first quarter." AllAccess.com has more...

* HD Radio developer iBiquity Digital is offering lower license fees to radio stations for 2010. iBiquity also says it's offering new payment options, including a monthly plan. The choices include payment in full with a signed contract, $10,500; invoice next business month, net 30, $11,000; or 12 automatic electronic payments, $1,042 a month for a total of $12,500. "HD Radio technology has enjoyed tremendous broadcaster support and seen breakthrough progress in receiver sales, automotive adoption and product expansion over the past year," says iBiquity CEO Bob Struble. "Based on this success and heightened broadcaster enthusiasm, we have created flexible, cost-effective licensing options to make upgrading easier. Radio is now the last entertainment medium to convert from analog to digital, and we want to do all we can to help broadcasters upgrade and deliver the highest quality listening experience to their listeners and generate incremental revenue from new digital offerings." iBiquity Director of U.S. Broadcast Sales Rick Greenhut says, "Thousands of radio stations large and small have upgraded to HD Radio Technology. In fact, approximately one new HD Radio station goes on the air every three days. Currently, there are over 2,000 stations broadcasting in digital. Because of that growing momentum, we want to encourage stations who have not yet upgraded to start reaping the benefits of digital broadcasting."

* Howard Stern tells his satellite radio listeners that he's considering becoming a judge on “American Idol.” Stern said Monday (Feb. 8) he's giving consideration to leaving Sirius XM, and radio of any type, to replace Simon Cowell on the TV program. This was the first time that Stern confirmed a report that Fox is interested in hiring him as Cowell's replacement. On his Monday morning (Feb. 8) satellite show, Stern said, “There’s not a better job on the planet than judging that f**king karaoke contest.” He added, “It might be possible, we’ll see. They’d have to pay me a ton of dough because I already make a ton of dough.” Stern’s five-year, $500 million contract with Sirius XM expires at the end of this year. Responding to a television report speculating Fox would have to match his current annual salary, Stern replied: “A $100 million to judge a karaoke contest? Yeah, I would do that show for $100 million.” Stern said he would not do a radio show if he becomes the new "American Idol" judge. "If I do say so myself, I can't imagine anyone else but me replacing him," Stern said referring to Cowell. “I mean, I don't know. How else are they going to make that show work? Who knows how to broadcast and who knows how to be interesting? And who's not afraid to speak their mind?"

* Howard Stern "Wack Pack" member Tom "Captain Janks" Cipriano pleads guilty to theft by deception. Cipriano was charged in Pennsylvania with theft by deception and deceptive business practices for taking money for personal appearances and not showing up. Cipriano, a resident of North Wales, PA, was sentenced to eight years' probation and payment of $5,926 in restitution. If he pays the restitution before three years, he can petition to have the remainder of the probation terminated. Cipriano, as "Captain Janks," is known for his prank calls to television programs and news reporters for Stern's show. He blamed his actions on his addiction to prescription painkillers on Stern's Sirius XM show a year ago. Monday (Feb. 8), he told the court that he has been sober for exactly a year.

* BizRadio Houston, back on the air at KTEK-AM, blames "an opposing group" for its recent problems. In an open letter, dated February 8, 2010, posted on the BizRadio Website, BizRadio founder Dan Frishberg writes, "BizRadio Returns: What a story!" Addressed to "Dear Friend," he says, "I’m proud and happy to announce that BizRadio will be back on the air Monday at noon. The truth is, we should never have been off, but a clever legal maneuver by an opposing group got them a temporary order, and we were forced, against our will, to put them on instead of OUR content, on OUR radio station – but only for a couple of days. Once the court got a look at the facts, it cancelled the temporary restraining order, and the result is – WE ARE BACK!" Frishberg adds, "In the meantime, there will be rumors and other claims, especially from those who oppose our interests. Now that the court has ruled, their only tactic is a propaganda campaign, which people have already told us is underway. We will continue to live our lives and do the best we can, but we do want to make the effort to make sure the real facts get out to everyone interested in BizRadio, whether as investors or just supporters and fans. I just spent all day in court, in Houston, on Friday, Feb 5, defending the interests of BizRadio, its investors and its supporters. Briefly, I will summarize our position, which was supported by the court, so far." He goes on to outline "Our position, as we told it to the court." Says Frishberg, "An unauthorized but related party, Ron Crider, held himself out, falsely, to be the Chief Executive of BizRadio, and to be authorized to make deals and contracts for the sale of major assets. Our records show that he was not even an employee of our company, never received a paycheck from our company. Though a merger with his company was discussed and considered, it was never consummated."   more...

* The SEC bars BizRadio co-owner Albert Kaleta from investment firms. In what amounts to a formality, Kaleta, one of the founders of BizRadio, has been barred by the SEC from association with any investment adviser. The Houston Chronicle's Loren Steffy reports the administrative proceeding comes in response to the lawsuit the SEC filed in November and a consent decree signed by Kaleta. In last week's station licensing dispute, Kaleta was identified as president of at least some of the BizRadio-affiliated companies. Asia Vision's Rehan Siddiqi produced a receipt signed by Kaleta as BizRadio's president, though BizRadio CEO Daniel Frishberg said Kaleta never signed such a document. Frishberg said in November that Kaleta is no longer a partner in his investment firm, Daniel Frishberg Financial Services.

* Borrell Associates increases its projection for political ad spending by 10% for 2010. Borrell is now forecasting political advertising to hit $4.2 billion this year — close to 75% of that local, and most of it centered on issues, not candidates. Says Borrell Associates, "It’s an “even” year, which means another uptick in political advertising. That’s good news for broadcasters – where most of political advertising winds up – and good news for just about everybody else, too, because of a recent Supreme Court ruling that should open the door to about $400 million more political ad spending this year. A decade-long uptick in political spending has forced a crooked smile on our forecast. It starts at $4.2 billion this year and zig-zags up to $41 billion in the 2012 presidential election year. Online is still barely 1% of all political advertising, just $44 million this year." Borrell's 24-page report, available at a price, includes 12 charts and an appendix estimating political ad spending in each of the 210 DMAs — but it isn't inexpensive. The full report is priced at $995.

* PricewaterhouseCoopers is forecasting a rebound in the 2010 media deal market. PWC's "U.S. Entertainment & Media M&A Insights Report" is predicting a rebound in mergers and acquisitions in the E&M sector in 2010, following a 49% decline in deal value in 2009, to $77.4 billion. Some 714 deals were completed in 2009, a 29% decline from 1,000 deals in 2008. "Continuing signs of gradual economic recovery and an anticipated easing of credit markets point to a potential uptick in E&M deal activity," says PWC Transaction Services Entertainment & Media Leader Thomas Rooney. "While entertainment and media companies and investors are currently focusing on driving efficiencies by zeroing in on their core competencies, in 2010, we believe there will also be a renewed focus on new media opportunities as the industry's tolerance for risk rebounds and attention shifts towards higher growth." PWC says challenging credit markets brought deals' dollar value down last year to the lowest level since 2004 and volume to the lowest level since 2003. However, according to the Insights Report, "Responding to the shift toward new media, E&M companies are seeking opportunities to capture value online, with mobile and technology leading M&A activity. Given the level of success that certain technology giants have had in revolutionizing the distribution of media through convergence, we expect similar interest to continue well into 2010."

* Citadel News-Talk WLS-AM, Chicago, brings back Ron Magers to Roe Conn’s afternoon show. Chicago media reporter Robert Feder reports that "Chicago’s No. 1 anchorman" returns today (Feb. 9) as a daily contributor during the 3pm hour of Conn’s show which he now co-hosts with Cisco Cotto. Magers is the principal news anchor for ABC-owned WLS-TV. “I could not be happier to bring you that [news],” Conn told his listeners Monday (Feb. 8). Writes Feder, "The announcement of Magers’ return comes seven weeks after he was dropped in a budget cut at the station. For almost 12 years, Magers’ role as a commentator and raconteur often was the highlight of Conn’s show — and the best half-hour of conversation in all of Chicago radio. Bringing him back was among the top priorities of Michael Damsky when he was named President and General Manager of the station last month." Damsky said Monday, “It’s a piece of the show we felt the loss of immediately. This is the senior most credible newscaster in Chicago. We certainly would want him to be part of one of our premier shows. The first thing [Channel 7 General Manager] Emily Barr and Roe Conn advised me to do was to put Ron Magers back on. So it was the first thing I set out to do.” Magers, a 28-year veteran of Chicago television news, continues to anchor Channel 7’s top-rated newscasts at 5pm and 10pm weekdays. “I’m very happy to be back with Roe," says Magers. "It was always a very fun part of my day, and I’ve missed it. We set no agenda and just let events take us where they may, and sometimes it surprises both of us. I’m also looking forward to getting to know Cisco in his new role.”

* WROW-AM, Albany, NY drops "News Talk 590" and for the moment is simulcasting sister "Magic 100.9" WKLI. The simulcast is expected to last several months before "The Greatest Memories of All Time" format permanently moves to WROW. That's when a new format launches on WKLI — expected to be a new FM Talk format. The station isn't yet saying what the new format will be, but sources say it will provide a new home for local show "Daybreak with Steve & Jackie" — along with syndicated programming, including Glenn Beck and Dennis Miller. That's despite comments from General Manager Chuck Benfer. He says of the demise of the AM talker, "There's a lot of competition in the News-Talk format. Other stations are doing a good job with it, so we decided to move in another direction." That could be a smokescreen while plans are made for the new FM format. WROW morning co-host Steve Van Zandt, News Director Heidi Kelli, and news producer Tom Rigati exit with the end of "News Talk 590." Although Pamal Broadcasting's corporate Website is still listing "NewsTalk 590," www.wrow.com now redirects to www.albanymagic.com.

* Salem Communications appoints new General Managers in Chicago and Seattle. In Chicago, Jeff Reisman is promoted to GM; in Seattle, Andrew Adams joins Salem as GM. Reisman, replaces David Santrella, who is now President of Salem's radio division. The Chicago cluster includes WIND-AM and WYLL-AM. For the past five years Reisman was General Sales Manager of WIND. In November 2008, he was promoted to Director of Sales for the Chicago group. "Jeff has shown incredible leadership skills, mastering both the human dynamics and business acumen that provides for a successful environment," says SVP Allen Power. Salem's Seattle cluster includes KGNW-AM, KKMO-AM, KKOL-AM, KLFE-AM and KNTS-AM. Adams most recently was Mapleton Communications' Central Valley Region SVP. "Andrew has the perfect mix of skills and radio experience that we need in Seattle," says Salem Western Region VP Michael Reichert. "He will provide us professional leadership and exceptional sales superiority to our Seattle group of radio stations." Adams adds, "Salem Communications is an outstanding radio broadcasting company. I am delighted to be a part of the Salem family and am looking forward to taking the Salem group of radio stations in Seattle to their next level of success."

* Jay Towers — who exited WXYT, Detroit, last month — returns to Philadelphia radio. Towers is back on the air in Philly, this time as midday host on Clear Channel Rhythmic AC "My106.1" WISX. Towers is reunited with fitness expert Donna Storm, for the "12noon Workout." The two originally co-hosted the feature on sister CHR-Top40 "Q102" WIOQ nearly 11 years ago when Towers served as Music Director and midday host. Towers, who was co-host of morning-drive talk show "Motor City Mornings," exited CBS Radio’s WXYT in January, because he and the station couldn't reach terms on a new contract. At the time, it was reported he was re-joining CC for an unspecified position. Days later Clear Channel announced that Towers was appointed as a programming and talent consultant for morning shows across the company. Not clear is whether he will actually be in Philadelphia for his new show. A previous announcement said Towers would continue to be based in Detroit and keep his position as a weekend TV anchor for "Fox 2 News" at WJBK-TV in the Motor City.

* Dial Global's TM Studios is set to begin distributing "Microjams" imaging for CHR radio stations. Microjams are produced mini-songs that air in between songs, replacing traditional radio jingles. Microjams replicate the hottest songs on the station's playlist with original music tracks, featuring artist sound-alike voices, singing the station's imaging components — slogan, frequency and/or call letters. The service is available for both Mainstream and Rhythmic CHR formats. Dial Global says "Microjams" is the first imaging package designed for the PPM world, branding a station with a continuous music flow. "The Microjams custom package is super rich with content," says Dial Global Affiliate Sales EVP Chris Corcoran. "Each station gets 24 original jams and each jam breaks down to three full mixes, three instrumental mixes, and three acappella mixes. Plus, we add ten monthly Nano groove work parts. So, stations are getting the best custom produced music imaging package available anywhere." The "Microjams" concept was created by producer Dave Kampel.

* The FCC will consider procedural reforms at its next open meeting, Thursday (Feb. 11). That, of course, is if the meeting is not snowed out. The agenda for the meeting includes two items addressing possible Notices of Proposed Rulemaking to change Commission procedures. The agenda items are a response to criticism from Congress and the Senate. The Office of the General Counsel has placed an item offering a "Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to enhance the efficiency, openness, and transparency of the Commission’s proceedings by improving and modernizing certain organizational and procedural rules" on the agenda. Another item proposes changes in the ex parte rules.

* The explosion of new technology wireless devices is causing a data traffic jam; the FCC is concerned about it. "With the exploding popularity of smartphones, wireless laptops, and if Steve Jobs has his way, tablet computers, it's fast becoming a wireless world. But the breakneck growth of all things wireless is threatening to cause a traffic jam — of the airwaves that deliver calls, Web searches and video to those data-hungry devices," writes Mike Zapler for the San Jose Mercury News. Left unchecked, that could eventually mean more dropped calls, slower service and a lot of frustrated customers. "Recent complaints of dropped calls and slow connections by iPhone users on AT&T's networks in San Francisco and New York foreshadow a potentially widespread problem," says Zapler. He notes that federal regulators are now working to head off what they call a "looming spectrum crisis" — a severe shortage of the wireless frequencies that deliver data and allow smartphones to perform all the tasks people expect. A proposal from the FCC is expected next month. Meanwhile, Radio Ink reports, "Apple's iPad is due in late March, pending FCC approval, and on the FCC's official broadband blog, Director/Scenario Planning Phil Bellaria and Wireless Bureau Deputy Chief John Leibovitz say there may be trouble ahead if the device drives up demand for mobile broadband. They write that the iPad announcement on January 27 'set off a new round of reports of networks overburdened by a data flow they were not build to handle,' saying the problems are reminiscent of the outages AOL users ran into when the then-dialup service went to unlimited use in 1996 — problems that persisted for months."

* FCC International Bureau Chief Mindel Delatorre writes about her experiences in Haiti. In a post on the Commission's Website blog, she writes, "I have returned from Haiti and am back at FCC headquarters in Washington DC. As I explained previously, our mission to Hait was at the request of the Haitian telecommunications regulator, Conatel, and in coordination with USAID (which is leading the US Government efforts in Haiti). Though I have traveled all over the world, and have worked with communications regulators in small and developing countries like Haiti, I have never had quite the experience we had in Haiti. Our U.S. Communications Sector Assessment Team spent a week in Haiti (a few of the members were there longer). What we saw and what we learned was amazing. The extent of the destruction of the communications facilities was significant. Yet, the resilience and determination of both the Haitian government and private industry to get communications services back up and running was profound – this was despite overwhelming loss of family, friends and staff in addition to damaged buildings, roads and homes. And nonetheless, there was a marked “uptick” in the streets of Haiti from when we arrived until when we left." More from Reboot.FCC.gov...

* Andy Furman returns to Cincinnati radio after a two-year absence. His new show — "The Furman Factor" — begins airing on "Real Talk 1160" WQRT-AM, Cincinnati. Furman said his first guest, Monday (Feb. 8), on the new 5-7pm weekday show would be Pete Rose. "Pete called me and said he wanted to be my first guest. How do you say no to Pete Rose?" says Furman, 60, who hosted WLW-AM's top-rated "SportTalk" show for 18 years. The Cincinnati Enquirer's John Kiesewetter writes, "The opinionated New York native says he's feeling 'a rush of emotions' about his return. He will be the first local personality since 'Real Talk 1160' debuted in June with syndicated shows by Laura Ingraham and Dave Ramsey." Furman tells Kiesewetter, "I'm excited. There's anticipation and nervousness. I think I'll get some phone calls, but you just don't know. I'm just going to have fun and be myself. I'm not here to attack anybody." Furman, who will retain his job as customer relations manager for Jake Sweeney Automotive in Springdale, was fired by WLW-AM in 2006, three weeks after being suspended for calling ex-Bengals receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh a "racist" on his show. Furman says Houshmandzadeh had called him a "white punk" for ripping him on the air after Houshmandzadeh missed a paid appearance on WLW-AM. Two months later, he debuted on "Supertalk FM96.5" WFTK. That lasted a year, until "96 Rock" replaced Talk in December 2007. On "The Furman Factor" Monday, he plans to discuss the Super Bowl with former Bengal Eric Thomas and sidekick-producer J.C. McCoy.

* Talk "Newsradio 1360" WTAQ-AM, Green Bay, adds a simulcast on its new FM sister at 97.5. WTAQ-FM at 97.5 is now on the air. Midwest Communications purchased the former WTRW-FM, Two Rivers, for $1.7 million from Randy Michaels' Radioactive LLC, moved the license to Glenmore, WI, and relocated the antenna to the Green Bay market's main antenna farm near De Pere, WI. An announcement of the new FM sister on WTAQ's Website says, "If you're hearing us on 97.5 FM today, you're listening to a brand new radio station. The simulcast of WTAQ 1360 AM went on the air at 4:10 p.m. Friday afternoon. Midwest Communications VP of News Talk Programming Jerry Bader says one advantage the FM signal brings is its strong coverage day... and night." The new, 3,000-watt FM station "puts a strong signal over Green Bay and areas to the north, parts of the Fox Valley, and out to the lakeshore," says the station.

* BizRadio Houston is back on the air at KTEK-AM after a court ruling in its favor. The Houston Chronicle's Loren Steffy writes, "State District Judge Robert Schaffer rejected a request for a temporary injunction against BizRadio, clearing the way for the station to return to the air at noon on Monday." Another judge granted a temporary restraining order earlier last week at the request of Rehan Siddiqi, who owns Asia Vision. Last Monday (Feb 1), BizRadio founder Daniel Frishberg told Siddiqi that BizRadio was moving back to its old station and kicking his programming off the air. Asia Vision had been airing its programming on 1110 AM, which is owned by a BizRadio affiliate. Siddiqi paid $180,000 to various BizRadio-related entities to lease the station for six months after BizRadio moved to 1180 AM. The deal was negotiated on BizRadio's behalf by Ronald Crider, who signed the documents as its CEO. Frishberg said Crider was never an employee and had no authorization to do such a deal. Siddiqi produced documents, emails and Crider's business card listing him as CEO, but Frishberg said they weren't accurate. Crider maintained an office at BizRadio and even after the hearing insists he was CEO. Siddiqi said Frishberg introduced him to Crider as the person who would negotiate the contract on BizRadio's behalf, though Frishberg testified that he didn't recall such a meeting. Frishberg said he never authorized the deal and didn't know about the terms of the contract, which would have sold the station for $3.5 million. BizRadio paid $7.6 million for it two years ago, Frishberg said, adding that he wasn't going to let BizRadio's investors take that sort of haircut. "These investors have stayed with us, and they believe in us," he said after the hearing. "I manage hundreds of millions of dollars for these people. They know I'm not a fake." On the BizRadio Website, visitors are told, "After a breif hiatus BizRadio is pleased to announce that we will be back on the air in Houston, TX on KTEK 1110 AM. We are as busy as we have ever been. We are using this time to make some major improvements in our operations that will benefit our audience and our investors. We will be back on the air Monday, February 8th, 2010, at noon."

* New Generation Programming launches new Top 40 and Mainstream Country programing services. President of Programming Chuck Geiger says the services are aimed at economically challenged small-medium market radio stations. The Country programming begins today (Feb. 8), while the Top 40 service starts February 22. Several other formats, Classic Rock, Classic Hits, AC and Hot AC will launch by mid-March. And later in the year, New Generation plans to offer Triple-A, Alternative and Urban AC. Says Geiger, "Our goal is to offer local programming using out of market talent that will weave the consistencies of the market and community into the station. With the prospective stations sonic sound readied for them, they can concentrate on their business blueprint. The goal of the local station and town is to cease reliance on satellite programming ventures and free up commercial units for local sales demands while installing quality programming and talent relating to the individual market."

* Broadcast industry pioneer and former Congressman Cecil Heftel dies at the age of 85 in San Diego. In a short news release, family members say Heftel had "been in failing health for a while and died of natural causes." The Honolulu Star-Bulletin reports that Heftel made his fortune in the radio and television industries, and was one of Honolulu's most successful broadcasters, owning the KGMB television and radio stations in the 1960s and 70s. Born September 30, 1924, in Chicago, Heftel attended college in Arizona, later served in the Army Air Force and attended law school on the GI Bill. He was a pioneer in the 1950s radio industry managing stations in Idaho, Utah, Colorado and Arizona before buying Hawaii's KGMB radio and TV stations in 1965. KGMB-AM 590 became KSSK-AM, which Heftel also owned and operated. He put KGMB-FM 93.1 on the air on October 1, 1967, but he later sold the station to put KULA-FM 92.3, now KSSK-FM, on the air. His radio empire also grew throughout the mainland over the years. Heftel put aside his broadcasting career and became active in Hawaii Democratic politics, writes the Star-Bulletin. In 1976, he ran and won election to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 1st Congressional District. Heftel served until 1986 when he resigned to run for governor. He was upset in the Democratic primary election by John Waihee, who went on to become governor by defeating D.G. "Andy" Anderson. Heftel blamed the defeat on a last-minute smear campaign. He later left the islands and relocated to Las Vegas where he concentrated on broadcasting business interests. Heftel eventually returned to Hawaii and local politics, however. In 2004, he ran and won a seat on the state Board of Education. He did not run for re-election in 2008. Heftel has been credited for being a radio-industry visionary for seeing an opportunity to serve the burgeoning Hispanic population in the United States and buying Spanish-language FM stations in Los Angeles. The company, Heftel Broadcasting, later became known as Hispanic Broadcasting Co.

* The original “news doctor,” media consultant Frank Magid dies at 78. The founder of Frank N. Magid Associates died in Santa Barbara, CA. Magid Associates has posted a special tribute page to its founder at www.magid.com, saying Frank N. Magid died "after a courageous battle with cancer." A native of Chicago, Magid earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Iowa. He became a member of the faculty of the Department of Sociology at the University of Iowa and also taught social psychology, anthropology, and statistics at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. His keen interest in human behavior, combined with his academic experiences, led Frank Magid to see the potential for using the scientific study of human behavior to gain practical business insights and competitive advantage. The result was the founding of Frank N. Magid Associates in 1956. "I was fascinated by the research that I saw taking place in the academic world and wanted to apply what I'd learned in my academic background to what was happening in the commercial sphere," Magid said in a 2007 interview with Broadcasting & Cable. Through a few early projects, he found that his command of social scientific techniques could bring an entirely new dimension to the way a particular company or group approaches its business. The success of those first research projects would generate great interest in Frank N. Magid Associates from a wide array of businesses and institutions. As The Encyclopedia of Television (1999) put it, "His first clients were with businesses wanting to know why people behaved as they did." He brought his research methods to television 10 years later starting with hometown WMT-TV (now KGAN) in Cedar Rapids. "They hired us to help them improve their news. We did a study for them, and as a result their ratings soared," Magid said. "Changes in editorial content and presentation style might cost them little or nothing to make, and yet have a profound impact on the value perceived by the consumer," said Magid in an interview a few years ago to mark his company's 50th anniversary. Over the years, the company worked with all of the major broadcast networks. It was Frank Magid who, based on research his company had conducted, recommended that CBS feature Walter Cronkite as a solo anchorman on the CBS Evening News, catapulting Cronkite to a highly visible and successful career. He played a key role in the development of ABC's Good Morning America, which debuted in 1975, and helped to define the modern network show format and style. Magid urged AM radio stations to move into the FM realm when few believed it represented a real opportunity. He advised broadcasters to invest in cable television when many said that people would never pay for TV service. He saw great potential for local television stations with morning news before it turned out to be a huge growth area. In 2002, he retired as CEO of Frank N. Magid Associates, when he was succeeded by his son, Brent, but remained chairman of the company until his death. Frank Magid is survived by his wife, Marilyn; a brother, Gail, of Santa Cruz, Calif.; sons Brent, of Minneapolis, and Creighton, of Washington, D.C.; and four grandchildren.

* Michael Irvin is fired by "ESPN 103.3" KESN, Dallas, after allegations of a 2007 rape by Irvin are reported. The Sports Talk station terminated Irvin after news broke that a civil lawsuit was filed in Fort Lauderdale against the former Dallas Cowboys star by a woman claiming Irvin sexually assaulted her at a South Florida hotel. Irvin's attorney, Friday (Feb. 5), labeled the rape allegation a false attempt at "civil extortion." NFL Network, Irvin's other employer, hasn't yet decided on Irvin's status with them. An ESPN spokesman says Ben & Skin are replacing Irvin, whose show "was not performing." Says Josh Krulewitz, "We had previously determined to end the show." The Miami Herald reports the civil suit was filed by the woman Thursday (Feb. 4). It claims that Irvin raped her in a room at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in the overnight hours of July 4-5, 2007. The incident was reported to Seminole tribal police on July 20, 2007, but the woman later signed a waiver of prosecution, Seminole tribe spokesman Gary Bitner said. "I think she just wanted to put this behind her," Bitner said. The case was referred to state prosecutors. Ron Ishoy, a spokesman for the Broward State Attorney's office, says the matter remains under investigation but no charges have been filed, according to the Herald. Because the woman waited more than two weeks to report the incident, there was no physical evidence or hotel surveillance video, says Bitner. Irvin, 43, is a member of the pro football Hall of Fame who starred at wide receiver for the Cowboys from 1988 to 1999. The Fort Lauderdale native was also a star in college for the University of Miami, playing on the Hurricanes' 1987 national championship team. As an analyst for the NFL Network, Irvin has been scheduled to be on the air this weekend as part of Super Bowl coverage. NFL Network spokesman Dennis Johnson says the NFL security department is looking into the allegations.

* Indiana University basketball radio reporter Todd Leary is charged with misappropriation of escrow funds. The former Hoosiers player is charged with 18 counts, after his arrest on a warrant charging fraud with real estate funds. He was arrested Thursday night (Feb. 4) just before the IU-Purdue game, according to the Indianapolis Star. Leary was booked into the Monroe County Jail in Bloomington Thursday night and was being transferred today to Fort Wayne, where he faces charges in Allen County court. Leary played at IU from 1989 to 1994, earning a trip to the Final Four in 1992. The Star reports that court documents show that Leary's former teammate, Brian Evans, cooperated with state investigators to uncover the scheme. Leary previously worked for former title insurance broker Joseph Garretson, who was charged in a $2.7 million fraud scheme. Garretson pleaded guilty this week in Allen Superior Court to conversion or misappropriation of title insurance escrow funds; corrupt business influence and unlawful loan origination activities. Leary, 39, is accused of conspiring with Garretson between July 2008 and February 2009 to commit a variety of felonies, including conspiracy to commit conversion or misappropriation of title insurance escrow funds, conspiracy to commit theft and conspiracy to corrupt business influence. The majority of the charges are Class C felonies, with penalties of up to four years in prison each count.

* The FCC upholds a $16,000 fine against WSKQ-FM, New York, for airing a phone call without permission. The SBS Tropical station — "Mega 97.9 FM" — recorded and aired the conversation without giving prior notice to the individual called, according to a complaint filed with the Commission that says the recorded call was aired more than once. The complaint says that station personnel prank-called a woman claiming to be local hospital employees, telling her that the dead bodies of her husband and daughter were at the hospital. The woman was told it was a prank only after she became hysterical. WSKQ admits that it had contracted with a vendor, "Rubin Ithier," who initiated the call, made at the request of the sister of the call recipient. The prank call was made in July of 2007. WSKQ admits that Ithier did not inform the call recipient that it was being recorded for later broadcast. The FCC ruled that the call's origination and recording by an independent contractor rather than the station itself did not relieve WSKQ of its liability for violating FCC rules.

* "Newsradio 1100" WTAM-AM, Cleveland, weekend talk show host Jim Traficant may soon be leaving. Traficant, a former Democrat Ohio Congressman, is considering another run for political office. That despite the fact that he's a convicted felon — which, by law, he is permitted to do. He represented the 17th Congressional District until he was expelled after being convicted of taking bribes, filing false tax returns, racketeering, and forcing his aides to perform chores at his farm in Ohio and on his houseboat in Washington DC, and was released from prison in September 2009, after serving a seven-year sentence. After getting out of prison, he began a weekend talk show at WTAM. However, if he does run again for elected office, he will have to give up his radio job. Trafficant told a gathering in Akron that he's considering a run for Congress this year. If he does decide to run this year, he must file by February 18, at which time as a declared candidate he could not remain on the air under equal time laws. In December, Trafficant told the Youngstown Biz Society he is “going to run” for Congress once again in 2010. Traficant also said he was committed to speaking at a February 13 event in Washington sponsored by the American Free Press, though he is not sure if the terms of his parole will allow him to travel. The invitation, Traficant said at the time, is part of an effort to encourage him to run for president.

* Janet Parshall's new weekday show for Moody Radio is set to debut May 3. The network says the new show will air 4-6pm CT. When Parshall exited Salem Radio Network she said she was joining Moody Radio full-time. She's been hosting a Saturday show for Moody — "Talking It Over with Janet Parshall" — for two and a half years. "We are very excited to have Janet become a part of our Moody Radio family," said Moody Bible Institute COO Ed Cannon. "In anticipation of the May 3rd launch date, we look forward to her frequent appearances on many of our outlets in the days ahead as we continue to engage listeners with Moody Bible Institute's charge to equip followers of Christ with the truth of God's word through education and media." Says Parshall, "Moody Radio is the broadcasting gold standard for the proclamation of biblical truth. In a day where we can so easily be taken captive with vain and hollow philosophies, I relish the opportunity to encourage our listeners to pursue the mandate of speaking the truth in love."

* Arbitron is re-issuing Atlantic City, Syracuse and Austin Fall 2009 ratings. The Atlantic City book is being re-issued because Arbitron discovered a media-affiliated household turned in diaries during the survey period. Arbitron re-issued the Atlantic City book Friday (Feb. 5) for Maximiser and Tapscan customers. The full ratings release for market 141 will come Monday (Feb. 8). There are reports that at least one, and possibly two stations, operated by Atlantic Broadcasting will see lower numbers when the adjusted book is released. All Access is reporting Classic Hits "Kool 98.3" WTKU and Classic Rock "The Shark" WMGM will see their Fall 2009 numbers adjusted down. All Access says, "It's a sure bet." Meanwhile, a source at one of Atlantic Broadcasting's stations tells TPMedia that the "media-affiliated household" did, indeed, trace back to that group. Problems with diary processing will find Arbitron re-issuing books in Syracuse and Austin. In those markets, the problems were reportedly related to unreported changes of call letters or frequency relocations, and/or programming changes.

* The New York Post says "American Idol" producers are eager to hire Howard Stern to replace Simon Cowell. The Post's Page Six reported February 5 that the producers of the Fox TV show want Stern to take over from Idol's tough-talking judge, according to "sources." The report says, "An insider said that producers of the hit Fox show say Stern, America's highest-paid radio personality, is their top choice to take over from Cowell, who leaves at the end of this season. They approached the King of All Media after he repeatedly mentioned on-air that his exclusive Sirius XM Radio deal expires next January and he was open to other offers. Cowell was paid $50 million a year." The Post's source, reportedly connected to the TV show, said, "It's one of the few shows that could compete with Stern's $100 million-a-year Sirius contract, and 'Idol' bosses think he'd be even nastier than Simon. "They know he would be great TV and would clash with the other judges such as Ellen DeGeneres and the contestants. 'Idol' will do what it takes to sign him." But a second source told the Post that Stern hasn't made the "Idol" talks easy, and has been giving out mixed messages about his intentions. "Despite what he's been saying on-air, Howard isn't ready to leave radio and would like to stay on at Sirius," the source said. "We believe this is a ploy to make Sirius pay up and keep him on his huge contract. But if Sirius can't pay him the money he wants, he may negotiate to film 'Idol' on the side." Stern is also believed to be reluctant to commit to a show that would require him to tour the US as a judge and spend much of the year in Los Angeles. As we previously reported, Howard Stern said this week he was offered someone's TV show, but he didn't say who that someone is. He said he "carefully" considered the TV offer, but ultimately turned it down. Many saw the comment only as posturing as Stern continues contract negotiations with Sirius XM.

* CBS Radio announces the lineup for Sports Talk "93.7 The Fan" KDKA-FM, which debuts February 15. When CHR-Top40 "B94" WBZW, Pittsburgh, flips to "The Fan," Paul Alexander, Jon Burton and Jim Colony will host mornings, 6-10am; Vinnie Richichi & Ron Cook will be heard in middays, 10am-2pm; John Seibel and Joe Starkey will host afternoons, 2-6pm; and, Gregg Giannotti will air nights, 6-10pm. The new Sports Talk station will be programmed by veteran radio programmer Terry Foxx, most recently Program Director for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. "This has been one of the most exciting times in my life," says Foxx, as he prepares for the launch of the new station. "I'm working alongside a team of passionate, compelling, and wonderful on-air personalities. The Fans of Pittsburgh will be truly served 24/7 by this radio station."

* Urban "Jamz," displaced from WJNZ-AM, Grand Rapids, finds a new home at WYGR-AM. Programmer Robert Womack moves the format to WYGR, whch has been airing a Tropical-Regional Mexican format as "La Furia." The former "1140 Jamz" WNJZ was purchased by Holy Family Radio, displacing the format. It's now "1530 Jamz, The Pulse of the City." Reportedly, WYGR's Spanish programming moves to 3pm to signoff on weekends at the daytimer, while the station's brokered polka show continues noon-3pm Saturdays and Sundays. Spanish religions shows remain on the schedule 9-10:30am Sundays, and a Bosnian show continues 10:30am-noon Sundays. Womack challenged the sale of WJNZ in bankruptcy to Holy Family Radio last year. Eventually he reached a settlement that allowed him six months to find a new home for the "Jamz" programming, which includes Tom Joyner's syndicated morning show and Citadel's "The Touch" satellite format.

* Tampa PBS station WEDU-TV President Dick Lobo is named to head the International Broadcasting Bureau. That's the government department that runs Voice of America and the broadcast news outlets aimed at Cuba, and Radio and TV Marti. The White House announced the appointment of Lobo, Thursday (Feb. 4). The nomination must still be confirmed by the Senate. Lobo, 73, when confirmed will work under the Broadcasting Board of Governors in Washington DC. His wife Caren, spearheaded fundraising for Barack Obama in Florida during the 2008 presidential campaign. The St. Petersburg Times reports that last year, Lobo announced plans to retire from WEDU seven years after taking the reins at the then-troubled station. He had already come out of retirement to help the Tampa outlet weather a fiscal crisis, having spent the first 40 years of his working life at commercial network TV affiliates in New York, Miami and Chicago. This latest appointment isn't entirely new for Lobo. In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton to run the Office of Cuba Broadcasting, which oversees Radio and TV Marti, which regularly face criticism from political opponents. They say the stations are often jammed by the Cuban government and are a waste of money.

* Sirius XM Radio is now offering a free application for BlackBerry smartphones. The app provides consumers access to over 120 channels of sports, talk, entertainment, news, comedy and commercial-free music on compatible models of the popular BlackBerry devices. Those include the BlackBerry Storm, Bold, Tour and Curve. The free app for BlackBerry gives mobile consumers the freedom to listen to Sirius XM’s Premium Online content on the go on their BlackBerry smartphones over cellular and WiFi networks, according to an announcement from the satcaster. "Sirius XM makes it easy for BlackBerry users to discover entirely commercial-free music and enjoy audio entertainment they will not find anywhere else,” says President & Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein. “We are truly excited to launch the Sirius XM App for BlackBerry, giving millions of discerning mobile consumers the ability to take our superior Premium Online programming with them on the go.” The BlackBerry app provides subscribers to Sirius or XM Premium Online who own compatible Blackberry devices the ability to access exclusive sports talk and entertainment programming from the satellite radio service.

* Pandora founder Tim Westergren says, "For me, one of life's biggest thrills is finding a new song that I like." And that, he tells the Oakland Tribune's Jim Harrington, was the inspiration for Pandora, the Oakland-based Internet radio site that now boasts nearly 50 million registered listeners. The quest to share the experience of finding a new song began ten years ago for Westergren. He says that what separates Pandora from its competitors is the way it builds its playlists. A listener sets up a playlist, or "station," on his or her Pandora site by typing in a specific genre, musician or even a single song. Within seconds, Pandora delivers a personalized playlist that matches that person's taste. The song list isn't based necessarily on what artists are in the same genre or even in the same era, or who occupies a similar spot on the Billboard charts, but on the fundamental musical ingredients of each song entered and how it stacks up with other songs in Pandora's 800,000-song library. Read more here.

* Is radio's advertising turnaround finally at hand? Advertising Age believes it has the answer. AdAge is reporting that radio is poised for its first quarterly rebound in three years. "It's been three years since radio advertising last posted quarterly revenue growth, back in the first quarter of 2007 — three years that most recently saw Citadel Broadcasting, owner and operator of 224 stations, file for bankruptcy protection in December and long-struggling Air America shut down entirely in January. It's hard not to dread the full-year figures for 2009, due out from the Radio Advertising Bureau later this month, after the third quarter alone delivered a 21% plunge," writes AdAge. However, the good news: "early indications suggest that radio's turnaround may finally be here." Double-digit increases in national and local spot buys among top marketing categories such as entertainment, financial services and automotive, as well as new spending from political and hospitality marketers, have put radio on track to finally post a quarterly gain again. And, says AdAge, several analysts peg radio to finish 2010 with year-end revenue that is flat or even 2% higher than last year, which would mean the industry's first year-over-year gain since 2006. The report notes that the RAB doesn't provide official guidance on quarterly revenue projections, but has heard anecdotally from member companies that business is starting to show significant year-over-year growth this quarter. That's according to RAB CEO Jeff Haley. December 2009 was also encouraging, he said, with increased national spot buys as marketers including McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts, Walmart and Geico turned to radio for strategic marketing, value messaging and contextual placement. "To me it's a validation that people aren't just putting money back into media, they're putting money into media based on response and the value they receive," says Haley.

* Citadel Broadcasting files its reorganization plan and disclosure statement in a New York bankruptcy court. The Citadel Chapter 11 plan will wipe out $1.4 billion of the company's debt. In a court filing late on Wednesday (Feb. 3), Citadel said it will have a total debt of $762.5 million once the plan is confirmed by the court. The third-largest U.S. radio broadcaster filed for the bankruptcy protection in December under a prenegotiated deal with more than 60% of its senior lenders. The company expects to have about $72.2 million in cash on hand by April 30, which will fund payments pursuant to the plan. Reuters reports that under the plan, senior lenders will receive a share of the new term loan and 90% of new common stock in reorganized Citadel. Existing shares will be wiped out. Citadel, whose network consists of 165 FM stations and 58 AM stations, took on debt to buy ABC Radio Networks from Walt Disney Co. in 2006. Reuters note that the company has struggled with depressed advertising revenue with the rest of the industry.

* Sign of the times in radio: Upstart Florida community station lays off staff to survive. KONK-AM, Key West, owner and Manager Guy deBoer says he had to lay off his staff to bring his business back into the black. At 1680 AM, KONK launched May 26, 2009, featuring a number of daily and weekly talk programs hosted by notable Key Westers and largely centered on local events and news. Former Program Director Mark "Ryno" Masca and News Director Don Riggs were both let go, but deBoer says they left on good terms. "I've been funding this radio station to give it legs and it's taking longer than anticipated," deBoer tells the Florida Keys Keynoter. "We're still struggling to add advertisers. It was time to make this business viable and the only way to do that was reduce labor costs." Riggs and Masca hosted a morning News-Talk show, followed by Masca and Peter Anderson. Anderson's show was also cut because, according to deBoer, "it wasn't growing the way other shows were." Now those two slots are filled with rebroadcasts of previously recorded programming, writes Keynoter's Sean Kinney. DeBoer is stepping up to the mic hosting the 10am news hour, formerly hosted by Riggs with a rotating lineup of newsmakers, including editorial staff from the Keynoter. Although changing, deBoer says he is committed to improving KONK by adding new programming. KONK-AM is online at konkam.com.

* The Media Institute goes on record as opposing the Performance Rights Act, and tells why. The Media Institute is a nonprofit research foundation focused on communications policy issues. The PRA would force radio stations to pay royalties for airing recorded music — royalties that would go to the labels, supposedly for the artists. A new paper titled "Performance Fees on Radio Stations: A Debacle Waiting To Happen," written by Media Institute VP Richard Kaplar, says that the royalty would impose an undue economic burden on broadcasters already reeling from the recession. The paper reinforces the position that radio broadcasters and record labels have enjoyed a "mutually beneficial economic relationship" in which broadcasters play recordings available for free, thereby building audiences and ad revenue, while record labels get the benefit of that free airplay to boost record sales. Imposing a royalty scheme on broadcasters would not only upset this equilibrium, but would likely force a significant number of stations into bankruptcy or off the air altogether. Black and Hispanic stations would bear the brunt of compulsory performance fees for sound recordings, and the loss of such stations would be particularly acute for Black and Hispanic communities where local radio stations are "a primary venue for the expression of minority and ethnic viewpoints," according to the paper.

* The FCC adopts a "First Report and Order" to promote Native American radio licenses. The Commission action gives Native American tribes a priority to obtain broadcast radio licenses in their communities. The Order provides an opportunity for tribes to establish new service specifically designed to offer programming that meets the needs of tribal citizens. The FCC says the Order also fosters localism and diversity, which it has previously said is one of its priorities. Says FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, "The Commission is proud to adopt new rules that will help tribes expand their unique radio programming, a service that focuses on the promotion of tribal culture, language, and historic preservation." According to a news release, "Although well over a million Native Americans and Alaska Natives live on over 55 million acres of tribal lands across the United States, only 41 radio stations are currently licensed to native tribes." To address this imbalance, the Commission says, the First Report and Order establishes the Tribal Priority under the Section 307(b) processing rules. The Tribal Priority gives precedence to federally recognized Native American Tribes and Alaska Native Villages, or companies controlled by tribes that want to establish new radio stations designed to serve communities located on tribal lands.

* Citadel launches Doug McIntyre's "Red Eye Radio" at WABC-AM, New York, and KABC-AM, Los Angeles. More major markets will be announced by Citadel Media. The new version of the show begins Monday (Feb. 8). McIntyre's show, which previously aired as a local KABC program, attracts late night listeners with talk about what's happening in the 24/7 digital world, from breaking news to pop culture. The four-hour show airs 1-5am ET. KABC Program Director David G. Hall says, "I used to hate to compete with his shows. They had huge ratings and audiences that were way above average in listener loyalty. Doug McIntyre's Red Eye Radio is a fabulous program and a terrific alternative to UFO and ghost shows." Adds WABC Program Director Laurie Cantillo, "Doug McIntyre's Red Eye Radio is a refreshing live alternative to traditional overnight fare, which is canned, conspiratorial, and just plain dull. Our listeners love Doug McIntyre and the fun, hip approach he brings to the news." Says McIntyre, "It's great to be back on the air," Noting the show will be national and not local for L.A., he adds, "I think any good story has dynamics whether it is in Los Angeles or New York. It is about good storytelling. Everything relates to everybody. But there is a challenge of not getting deep-dish to such arcane stuff that, frankly, shouldn't even be on locally." The Ocean Country Register has more...

* Minnesota Public Radio sues over noise and vibration concerns from a light-rail project. The station claims that the Metropolitan Council is failing to use "best efforts" to handle rail-line vibrations." The council says it "will fight this vigorously." The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that MPR filed suit Thursday (Feb. 4) in Ramsey County District Court. MPR says that the Metropolitan Council hasn't kept up its end of a deal to protect studios in buildings along Cedar Street in downtown St. Paul, where light-rail trains are scheduled to roll in 2014. "Our position hasn't changed, there are no new issues, there are no new requests," Nick Kereakos, MPR's managing director for broadcast production and operations, tells the Star-Tribune. "All we ask is that the Met Council live up to the agreement it signed less than a year ago." The suit centers on the type of track bed that will be used along Cedar Street in front of MPR and two historic churches. MPR is seeking to have the rails placed on steel springs to isolate the vibrations. It says the Met Council, in planning to install a less expensive rubber pad instead, is failing to use its "best efforts." But such pads are "what the standard is in this country," said Peter Bell, chairman of the Met Council. "I think their lawsuit has no merit, none, and we will prevail. We will fight this vigorously," he said.

* The Moby Network promotes Jay Noble to Program Director and Sandy Weaver to Music Director. The new assignments follow the death of former PD Dene Hallam in November. At the same time, Ken Moultrie of Broadcast Partners joins as the network's consultant. Noble joined the network last September as VP of Sales and Affiliate Relations and will continue those duties. Weaver, an Atlanta radio veteran, joined in October as the network's midday air personality. Her previous assignments included on-air hosting at WKHX-FM, WYAY-FM, and WPCH-FM/WLTM-FM, all in Atlanta. At WYAY-FM, she was also Music Director. She's also worked at Country WMZQ-FM, Washington DC.

* Katz Radio Group promotes four in its Chicago office. Ted Rosen is promoted to VP & Manager ; and Kristina Presern, to VP of Sales, both at Katz Radio. "Ted and Kristina are perfect examples of how passion and dedication lead to success," says Katz Radio President Chad Brown. "They are well-respected by their colleagues and clients, and we're proud to promote them to the next level. I look forward to continued excellence from both." Chris Shellgren is named a VP & Manager with Eastman Radio; and Sam Vangelovski, also at Eastman Radio, is upped to Senior Account Executive. "Both Chris and Sam have been invaluable in building Eastman Radio's presence in our Chicago office and nationwide," says Eastman Radio Presidnet Tucker Flood. "I am confident they will continue to excel in their new positions and we're lucky to have them as part of our company."

* Michael Norris joins as National Sales Manager at "W Radio" L. A., while "W Radio" also launches in Portland. Norris comes aboard with Grupo Latino de Radio as NSM for Spanish News-Talk XEWW-AM, Los Angeles, the flagship for the new "W Radio." "Mike brings both the keen skill of developing effective advertising relationships while offering the perspective from his experience," says VP of Sales Luis Gutierrez. "We believe he has the vision to create new advertising opportunities for sponsors immediately with W Radio's strong programming." Meanwhile, Bustos Media Oregon flips KOOR-AM, Portland to "W Radio 1010" with Grupo Latino de Radio's new syndicated format. "With the continued growth and diversity of Oregon's Latino population, the time has come for a Spanish News-Talk radio station and Bustos Media will continue to offer a variety of formats to meet the needs of the Latino audience," says Bustos Radio VP Ricky Tatum.

* Three Northeastern Pennsylvania radio stations change hands – and formats. Bold Gold Media acquires WCDL-AM, Carbondale; WNAK-AM, Nanticoke; and WLNP-FM, Carbondale, from WS2K Radio LLC for an undisclosed price, says Bold Gold President Vince Benedetto. The Wilkes-Barre Times-Leader writes, "The sale had been in the works for months and the Federal Communications Commission posted notices of voluntary assignment of licenses for the stations between the two companies in November." Benedetto says the stations had at one time been Route 81 Radio properties. The AM stations had been simulcast by WS2K. But they are off the air temporarily and when up again will have new formats, says Benedetto. The FM station