KEEP TALKING
Could the dreded Fairness Doctrine bring an end to tlak radio? WPGB program director Jay Bohannon thinks the new Obama Administration might keep things cooking for the talk format in 2009. He tells the Post-Gazette, "These guys are pretty much salivating over the whole state of politics at this point." He continues, "I do see the conservative genre of talk radio being extraordinarily popular over the next four years. When Bill Clinton was in office, Rush Limbaugh exploded."
Hey Jay, how about the Powerball show??? Call the station now folks!
Meanwhile the recent returning member of KDKA Mike Pintek and Fred Honsberger don't see their jobs changing. Pintek says "If Obama does something right, I'm going to say good for him, and if he does something I think is wrong, I'm going to say that, too."
QUINN LISTED
Media watchdog group Media Matters recently gave local host Jim Quinn a "radioactive" rating because they feel his speeches could be "hazardous to listeners." According to the Post-Gazette, Media Matters was founded in 2004 as a progressive/liberal organization keeping a watchful eye on all media. It was founded by David Brock whose conversion from a right-wing journalist is told in his book, "Blinded by the Right" Oh great, now I have Manfred Man stuck in my head.
The organization's mission is to "draw awareness to what is being said on the public airwaves and analyze and correct conservative misinformation in the media." Mr. Brock, please review the first four letters in the word ANALYZE
CATHOLIC RADIO TO REMAIN
There are some changes coming to 1590 WZUM. It's developing and I'll let you know as things happen.
Showing posts with label Radio. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Radio. Show all posts
Bonesso files discrimination lawsuit against B94 radio
Local comedian Gab Bonesso filed a federal sex discrimination lawsuit yesterday against radio station B94, claiming that she was denied an on-air position because she wasn't "girlie" enough.
According to the lawsuit, Ms. Bonesso, who was the sidekick-producer for John McIntire when the station used the talk format "The Zone" last year, was fired May 12.
She had worked for the station since March 2007. In October 2007, the all-talk WTZN, which targeted a male audience, changed its format back to B94, which plays hit music.
Bonesso filed a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in May and was fired a week later.
Ms. Bonesso's last position for the CBS-owned station was as a board operator.
After the format change, she applied for an on-air position and initially was told that she would get the position, she said in the lawsuit. However, she learned later that wasn't the case.
"[The program director] told Bonesso he could tell she was not 'girlie' enough because of her hair and how she dressed," Ms. Bonesso said in the lawsuit. "[He] suggested that if Bonesso were to look and dress more 'feminine' she would be acceptable for the radio announcer position."
The program director also told her she wasn't girlie enough because she was "too cerebral" and "too hip," the lawsuit contends.
She claims sex discrimination and retaliation in the complaint. She is seeking to be placed in an on-air position and receive back pay and compensatory and punitive damages.
Michael Young, Pittsburgh market manager for CBS Radio, said he could not comment on pending legal matters.
It seems like formats change much more than discrimination habits as this charge pops up about every ten years.
Back in 1999 former WBZZ-FM (93.7) disc jockeys Ron Chavis and Troy Garrett filed a lawsuit in federal court against the station, charging that their dismissals were based on race just five weeks after new program director Keith Clark came on board.
In 1988, morning show newscaster Liz Randolph, sued the morning duo and the station. A Common Pleas Court jury found in 1990 that Randolph had been subjected to the infliction of emotional distress, invasion of privacy and defamation. The station's company was also named in a second suit. Both suits were settled in 1991 for an undisclosed amount.
According to the lawsuit, Ms. Bonesso, who was the sidekick-producer for John McIntire when the station used the talk format "The Zone" last year, was fired May 12.
She had worked for the station since March 2007. In October 2007, the all-talk WTZN, which targeted a male audience, changed its format back to B94, which plays hit music.
Bonesso filed a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in May and was fired a week later.
Ms. Bonesso's last position for the CBS-owned station was as a board operator.
After the format change, she applied for an on-air position and initially was told that she would get the position, she said in the lawsuit. However, she learned later that wasn't the case.
"[The program director] told Bonesso he could tell she was not 'girlie' enough because of her hair and how she dressed," Ms. Bonesso said in the lawsuit. "[He] suggested that if Bonesso were to look and dress more 'feminine' she would be acceptable for the radio announcer position."
The program director also told her she wasn't girlie enough because she was "too cerebral" and "too hip," the lawsuit contends.
She claims sex discrimination and retaliation in the complaint. She is seeking to be placed in an on-air position and receive back pay and compensatory and punitive damages.
Michael Young, Pittsburgh market manager for CBS Radio, said he could not comment on pending legal matters.
It seems like formats change much more than discrimination habits as this charge pops up about every ten years.
Back in 1999 former WBZZ-FM (93.7) disc jockeys Ron Chavis and Troy Garrett filed a lawsuit in federal court against the station, charging that their dismissals were based on race just five weeks after new program director Keith Clark came on board.
In 1988, morning show newscaster Liz Randolph, sued the morning duo and the station. A Common Pleas Court jury found in 1990 that Randolph had been subjected to the infliction of emotional distress, invasion of privacy and defamation. The station's company was also named in a second suit. Both suits were settled in 1991 for an undisclosed amount.
Radio Waves
New Format
Labor Day saw the format flip of McKeesport's 1360 from a talk station to a business/financial format and expects a daily talk show to begin September 15. That's when "Pittsburgh Renaissance Radio" will start airing weekdays from 3 - 6 pm. The program is aimed at local business issues and breaking stories surrounding local businesses. Ron Morris (host of "American Entrepreneur"), John Poister and Darryl Grandy are behind the program. The program will have a variety of hosts including former WPTT talk show host Jerry Bowyer. Morris will also host the show while Poister will anchor hourly business reports. Until the program launches, three syndicated programs will air in its place.
KDKA Radio NOT for sale
CBS Radio is not planning to sell KDKA-AM (1020) or St. Louis' KMOX-AM (1120) but their respective FM sisters are listed. For Pittsburgh that means WBZW-FM (93.7), WZPT-FM (100.7) and WDSY-FM (107.9) are all apparently on the block.
Labor Day saw the format flip of McKeesport's 1360 from a talk station to a business/financial format and expects a daily talk show to begin September 15. That's when "Pittsburgh Renaissance Radio" will start airing weekdays from 3 - 6 pm. The program is aimed at local business issues and breaking stories surrounding local businesses. Ron Morris (host of "American Entrepreneur"), John Poister and Darryl Grandy are behind the program. The program will have a variety of hosts including former WPTT talk show host Jerry Bowyer. Morris will also host the show while Poister will anchor hourly business reports. Until the program launches, three syndicated programs will air in its place.
KDKA Radio NOT for sale
CBS Radio is not planning to sell KDKA-AM (1020) or St. Louis' KMOX-AM (1120) but their respective FM sisters are listed. For Pittsburgh that means WBZW-FM (93.7), WZPT-FM (100.7) and WDSY-FM (107.9) are all apparently on the block.
Radio Waves
Lynn Cullen out at WPTT As of Aug. 30, longtime radio talk show host Lynn Cullen will no longer be on the radio.
WPTT-AM (1360) is switching to a new format and will be eliminating Ms. Cullen's show, which airs from 9 a.m. to noon.
SALEM COMMUNICATIONS has formally announced its deal to use STREAMAUDIO for streaming its 95 U.S. radio stations on the Internet. The company switched to STREAMAUDIO earlier this year.
WPTT-AM (1360) is switching to a new format and will be eliminating Ms. Cullen's show, which airs from 9 a.m. to noon.
SALEM COMMUNICATIONS has formally announced its deal to use STREAMAUDIO for streaming its 95 U.S. radio stations on the Internet. The company switched to STREAMAUDIO earlier this year.
Radio On Sale
The rumors are flying as ratings and revenue fall. CBS announced they plan to sell 50 stations in medium-sized markets (which would include Pittsburgh) has many wondering whether KDKA-AM (1020) will be included.
One thing is certain all the FM's are now taking bids. CBS can focus on the large market stations by selling smaller markets. Pittsburgh is 24th in size.
According to the Post-Gazette, CBS folks declined to comment which stations/cities were on the block, but anything below the top 15 markets could be a possibility. If so, it would more than likely include FM sisters WBZW-FM (93.7), WZPT-FM (100.7) and WDSY-FM (107.9).
Tom Taylor of Radio-Info.com says that the Pittsburgh cluster could be a candidate but that will depend on who is named as potential buyers and whether or not they are interested in this market.
One thing is certain all the FM's are now taking bids. CBS can focus on the large market stations by selling smaller markets. Pittsburgh is 24th in size.
According to the Post-Gazette, CBS folks declined to comment which stations/cities were on the block, but anything below the top 15 markets could be a possibility. If so, it would more than likely include FM sisters WBZW-FM (93.7), WZPT-FM (100.7) and WDSY-FM (107.9).
Tom Taylor of Radio-Info.com says that the Pittsburgh cluster could be a candidate but that will depend on who is named as potential buyers and whether or not they are interested in this market.
Radio Waves
Shaun Pierce "On The Beach"
The term "On the Beach" in radio means a person is out of a job. That's me right now. It's terrible having to write yourself in to the unemployment report!
In some ways it's refeshing. I've gotten a few things done around the house that I have been putting off. Yet still that cloud of unemployment looms.
I do thank all of you for your prayers and comments. Many have wanted to know what happened. All I can tell you is it came as a shock to me.
I was told they had hired Gary Dickson (Fromer 3WS moring man and KDKA Overnight host) as Operations Director/Show Producer/Promotions Director.
Gary announced it on his website this way:
The term "On the Beach" in radio means a person is out of a job. That's me right now. It's terrible having to write yourself in to the unemployment report!
In some ways it's refeshing. I've gotten a few things done around the house that I have been putting off. Yet still that cloud of unemployment looms.
I do thank all of you for your prayers and comments. Many have wanted to know what happened. All I can tell you is it came as a shock to me.
I was told they had hired Gary Dickson (Fromer 3WS moring man and KDKA Overnight host) as Operations Director/Show Producer/Promotions Director.
Gary announced it on his website this way:
"Dear Friends,
I have some positive news to report. I have been offered and accepted a
position at WORD-FM (101.5) and WPIT (730) here in Pittsburgh. It all came
rather out of the blue, as I have not applied for any radio jobs since leaving
KDKA earlier this year. Kenny Woods, WORD/WPIT’s Operations Manager has decided to step down from his managerial responsibilities (his decision) to concentrate on his air-shift, production and other duties. Kenny was gracious enough to mention my name as a possible replacement as Operations Manager. After spending some time this week with WORD/WPIT’s General Manager, Chuck Gratner, I was offered the position. As Operations Manager, I will be responsible for all programming on the two stations, which are both Christian formatted Talk/Teach
stations. I start work on Monday, July 21st.Unless you’ve read my “About Gary Dickson” page, you would not know that I spent ten years in radio management a number of years ago, before concentrating exclusively on my on-air work. This job feels just perfect for me at this point in my life. Although I enjoyed my conversations with my After Midnight callers, you might (or might not) be surprised to hear that I have not been really interested in getting back on the air to host a radio program. Those feelings are tied to factors not associated with being on the air. As Operations Manager, I will not be doing an air-shift. Although it is possible I may, from time-to-time, do some fill-in on-air work on
WORD-FM for some of my staff when the need arises."I wish Gary the best in his new role.
As for Shaun Pierce, I'm currently looking for my next opportunity and I will keep you all informed as things develop.
Paulsen & Savaran head to 1250
After several weeks of filling in for Fred Honsberger at KDKA, Scott Paulsen is headed to Ardmore Boulevard. Paulsen will be part of a three-man team filling in the 3-7 p.m. slot emptied after Mark Madden was fired. Joining Paulsen are Eddy Crow who moves from the mid-days and former Steelers defensive back Mike Logan. The new programs should be in place, assuming contracts are finalized, Monday, August 4.
Rob Milford held for trial
Former Pittsburgh radio reporter Rob Milford has been held for trial on charges that he brought a loaded handgun in his briefcase into a courthouse to cover a trial.
He is charged with possession of a firearm in a court facility and carrying a firearm without a license.
At his preliminary hearing Wednesday, his attorney, Wendy Williams, argued that the charges should be dropped because Milford didn't know the gun was in the briefcase. Milford, who resigned, has said the gun belongs to his girlfriend.
Milford worked at the station since 2006. He also worked at Fox News Radio and CBS Radio covering everything from hurricanes to the Iraq war.
He is charged with possession of a firearm in a court facility and carrying a firearm without a license.
At his preliminary hearing Wednesday, his attorney, Wendy Williams, argued that the charges should be dropped because Milford didn't know the gun was in the briefcase. Milford, who resigned, has said the gun belongs to his girlfriend.
Milford worked at the station since 2006. He also worked at Fox News Radio and CBS Radio covering everything from hurricanes to the Iraq war.
Radio Waves
Foul Ball
Pittsburgh had it's own "Heidi"game. In 1968, with 65 seconds remaining in their American Football League game, the New York Jets took a 32-29 lead over Oakland on Jim Turner's fourth field goal. The Raiders returned the ensuing kickoff to their 23-yard line. NBC, televising the game, went to a commercial break and came back not to the end of the game, but with the children's movie "Heidi". Never has a little swiss girl been so hated.
Now picture this.... You are gathered around your radio. It's two men on base for the American League. No outs and in the bottom of the tenth. The Major League All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium reaches a dramatic high point and WEAE (1250 ESPN), switches to regular ESPN programming and never goes back to the game. Yep, that's what happened.
By the way, the American League won 4-3, in 15 innings.
Madden Returns
Sports-talk host Mark Madden is set to return to radio later this year. Madden will join 105.9 WXDX and fill in the afternoon drive-time slot, at either 3 to 6 p.m. or 3 to 7 p.m, if contract details can be finalized.
Bettis on Radio
Meanwhile, on Ardmore Boulevard, rumors have been floating that Jerome Bettis might be a part of the team taking over where Madden left off.
Pittsburgh had it's own "Heidi"game. In 1968, with 65 seconds remaining in their American Football League game, the New York Jets took a 32-29 lead over Oakland on Jim Turner's fourth field goal. The Raiders returned the ensuing kickoff to their 23-yard line. NBC, televising the game, went to a commercial break and came back not to the end of the game, but with the children's movie "Heidi". Never has a little swiss girl been so hated.
Now picture this.... You are gathered around your radio. It's two men on base for the American League. No outs and in the bottom of the tenth. The Major League All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium reaches a dramatic high point and WEAE (1250 ESPN), switches to regular ESPN programming and never goes back to the game. Yep, that's what happened.
By the way, the American League won 4-3, in 15 innings.
Madden Returns
Sports-talk host Mark Madden is set to return to radio later this year. Madden will join 105.9 WXDX and fill in the afternoon drive-time slot, at either 3 to 6 p.m. or 3 to 7 p.m, if contract details can be finalized.
Bettis on Radio
Meanwhile, on Ardmore Boulevard, rumors have been floating that Jerome Bettis might be a part of the team taking over where Madden left off.
Radio Waves
KYW-AM/Philadelphia Refuses to Run Democratic Ad
KGNW-AM/Seattle afternoon personality Thor Tolo exits after four years. Stations website reports "KGNW has decided to go in a different direction as part of our afternoon lineup. As a result of this new direction, Thor Tolo will no longer be heard as the host of Live From Seattle." Thor hosted a sports-talk show on KDKA in Pittsburgh for 7 years.
Madden Spot Up For Grabs
Who will take the spot formally filled by ousted WEAE host Mark Madden? One possible name is former New England radio host Andy Gresh. Gresh is a local native, but was most recently heard doing a talk show in Providence R.I. He's also heard nationally on ESPN Radio. He was a guest earlier this week when Chris Mack and Mike Logan were hosting and drew favorable reviews.
Rush's Deal Worth $400 Million
Rush Limbaugh's new deal with Premiere Radio Networks runs through 2016 and is worth $400 million, including $38 million a year and a substantial signing bonus, the New York Times reports.
KYW-AM/Philadelphia is refusing to air a Democratic ad that features an impersonator of President Bush thanking GOP congressional candidates for supporting the "Big Oil" agenda, reports The Hill. VP/GM David Yadgaroff said the all News CBS Radio outlet decided not to run the ad because it felt listeners would be misled.
Thor Tolo out in Seattle
KGNW-AM/Seattle afternoon personality Thor Tolo exits after four years. Stations website reports "KGNW has decided to go in a different direction as part of our afternoon lineup. As a result of this new direction, Thor Tolo will no longer be heard as the host of Live From Seattle." Thor hosted a sports-talk show on KDKA in Pittsburgh for 7 years.Madden Spot Up For Grabs
Who will take the spot formally filled by ousted WEAE host Mark Madden? One possible name is former New England radio host Andy Gresh. Gresh is a local native, but was most recently heard doing a talk show in Providence R.I. He's also heard nationally on ESPN Radio. He was a guest earlier this week when Chris Mack and Mike Logan were hosting and drew favorable reviews.
Rush's Deal Worth $400 Million
Rush Limbaugh's new deal with Premiere Radio Networks runs through 2016 and is worth $400 million, including $38 million a year and a substantial signing bonus, the New York Times reports.
Radio Waves
Royalty bill expected to clear committee.
Opponents of abolishing radio's decades-old royalty exemption have the backing of a majority of House members making it unlikely the issue will go far this year. That's not expected to stop a House subcommittee from easily approving the proposed Performance Rights Act during today's scheduled mark-up hearing. The NAB is running ads in Capitol Hill newspapers saying a royalty would "hurt local radio stations just to put money in the hands of big international companies."
The price of localism: $2.7 million.
The FCC's proposed rulebook changes requiring 24-hour staffing, community ascertainment meetings and main studios within a city of license come at a price. Simmons Media says for them it would be about $2.7 million. If the rules are implemented as proposed, the company would have to build and maintain 13 additional studio locations and hire additional staff. That just the tip of the iceberg for broadcasters.
Filming in Pittsburgh
Ohio Valley General Hospital was overtaken by film crews and a slew of actors (Daryl Hannah, Steve Gutenberg & George Lopez are a part of that list). They are taping "Shannon's Rainbow".
The story isn't only being taped locally, but was written locally by actor John Mowod and KDKA morning man Larry Richert about a 17-year-old girl and a horse named Rainbow. It's about an experience Mowod's own brother had with a horse a decade ago. Joe Mowod was a horse trainer at The Meadows Racetrack at the time and had a horse who was ill. Ignoring the recommendations that the horse should be put down, Mowod nursed the horse back to health hoping that it could live a normal life. The horse ended up surpassing that goal and won a race at the Red Mile in Kentucky.
They fought hard to have the film shot in Pittsburgh. Look for John Mowod to play the role of a horse trainer in the film. Larry Richert will also make an appearance.
Opponents of abolishing radio's decades-old royalty exemption have the backing of a majority of House members making it unlikely the issue will go far this year. That's not expected to stop a House subcommittee from easily approving the proposed Performance Rights Act during today's scheduled mark-up hearing. The NAB is running ads in Capitol Hill newspapers saying a royalty would "hurt local radio stations just to put money in the hands of big international companies."
The price of localism: $2.7 million.
The FCC's proposed rulebook changes requiring 24-hour staffing, community ascertainment meetings and main studios within a city of license come at a price. Simmons Media says for them it would be about $2.7 million. If the rules are implemented as proposed, the company would have to build and maintain 13 additional studio locations and hire additional staff. That just the tip of the iceberg for broadcasters.
Filming in Pittsburgh
Ohio Valley General Hospital was overtaken by film crews and a slew of actors (Daryl Hannah, Steve Gutenberg & George Lopez are a part of that list). They are taping "Shannon's Rainbow".
The story isn't only being taped locally, but was written locally by actor John Mowod and KDKA morning man Larry Richert about a 17-year-old girl and a horse named Rainbow. It's about an experience Mowod's own brother had with a horse a decade ago. Joe Mowod was a horse trainer at The Meadows Racetrack at the time and had a horse who was ill. Ignoring the recommendations that the horse should be put down, Mowod nursed the horse back to health hoping that it could live a normal life. The horse ended up surpassing that goal and won a race at the Red Mile in Kentucky.
They fought hard to have the film shot in Pittsburgh. Look for John Mowod to play the role of a horse trainer in the film. Larry Richert will also make an appearance.
Radio Waves
I guess a few things happened while I was away.....
KQV anchor Lohle dies
Longtime KQV (1410) afternoon news anchor Steve Lohle died of an apparent heart attack. Lohle was 58.
Rob Milford Resigns
KDKA (1020) reporter Rob Milford resigned. Milford was arrested after sheriff's deputies said he tried to bring a loaded .38-caliber revolver into the Allegheny County courthouse. He was covering the trial of the alleged East End rapist and told police he forgot the handgun was in his briefcase. Oooops!
Bossman Moves On
The legendary "Bossman" Porky Chedwick is headed to Florida. Porky Chedwick, 90, is moving to Tarpon Springs, near Tampa. "I'm going to live my life in shorts and sandals now," Chedwick said. I think 90 is a good age to retire.
Farewell Mr. Carlin
For those of you who care, New York's WBAI-FM wasn't cited for playing "Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television" over the air. In fact, on Oct. 30. 1973, the station played Carlin's monologue "Filthy Words". A listener complained to the FCC, and the resulting court case, FCC v. Pacifica Foundation, established the current legal standards for broadcast obscenity.
The lasting gift from Mr. Carlin.
Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that. - George Carlin
Radio Waves: Madden Fired
MADDEN FIRED!
5 days after Mark Madden made a really stupid comment about Sen. Edward Kennedy's cancerous brain tumor sports/talk host Mark Madden is out at WEAE-AM (1250 ESPN)/Pittsburgh.
5 days after Mark Madden made a really stupid comment about Sen. Edward Kennedy's cancerous brain tumor sports/talk host Mark Madden is out at WEAE-AM (1250 ESPN)/Pittsburgh. ESPN Radio would only say he's been taken off the air. The decision came from the top of ESPN headquarters in Bristol, Conn.
So did the man say that got him the Exit Station Promptly Now award?
"I'm very disappointed to hear that Senator Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts is near death because of a brain tumor. I always hoped Senator Kennedy would live long enough to be assassinated."
And that began the carrer assassination of Mark Madden. Despite an on air apology, Madden could not outrun himself. Madden was put on warning by ESPN for his on-air manner back in December and has previously been in hot water with WTAE-TV for his language and over-the-top remarks about the Steelers.
Podcasting... Ready or Not
Podcast audience is growing "tremendously."That's according to Edison Media Research, which found the number of Americans who downloaded and listened to an audio podcast grew from 13% to 18% in the past year. Edison Research VP Tom Webster says stations should create as much "podcast-able content" as they can.
Former Air America Exec Evan Cohen Arrested in Guam
Former Air America Radio Chairman and co-founder Evan Cohen has been arrested in Guam after airport customs officials discovered he had a warrant for his arrest in Hawaii. Cohen, who left the Liberal Talk network in 2005, was returning to Guam from a trip to the Philippines. Cohen was indicted by a grand jury in Hawaii in April on charges of theft, fraudulent use of a credit card, forgery and money laundering.
Radio Waves
Pittsburgh TV anchor and reporter Don Cannon is headed to California and semi-retirement, according to the Post-Gazette. Cannon's contract at KDKA-TV (2) was not renewed.
KDKA (1020) has hired Matt DelSignore from WGY (810) Schenectady to serve as an evening news reporter-anchor. The station plans to restore local newscasts until 10 p.m. on weeknights.
Two local radio veterans -- Chris DeCarlo and Charlie Mitchell -- are launching a new business. DeCarlo-Mitchell Productions (www.decarlo-mitchellproductions.com) will offer voice-over and imaging services for all radio formats.
Chris Shovlin is back as the voice of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds soccer broadcasts on WPIT-AM (730) and MSA Sports with the team's return this season. Shovlin has been announcer for the team since 2000.
KDKA (1020) has hired Matt DelSignore from WGY (810) Schenectady to serve as an evening news reporter-anchor. The station plans to restore local newscasts until 10 p.m. on weeknights.
Two local radio veterans -- Chris DeCarlo and Charlie Mitchell -- are launching a new business. DeCarlo-Mitchell Productions (www.decarlo-mitchellproductions.com) will offer voice-over and imaging services for all radio formats.
Chris Shovlin is back as the voice of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds soccer broadcasts on WPIT-AM (730) and MSA Sports with the team's return this season. Shovlin has been announcer for the team since 2000.
The End of Christian Radio?
The FCC is reviewing a proposal that would require every radio station to take programming advice from community advisory boards representative of the area's population. What's wrong with that you ask?
Well, it would require Christian broadcasters to seek advice from non-Christians and even those opposed to the Christian message. Some radio stations fear organized groups of atheists, for instance, could demand representation on the new FCC-mandated advisory boards that would factor into licensing decisions.
In addition to the requirement for advisory boards, the new regulations would also mandate radio stations produce every three months reports on how much programming of various types has been broadcast, who produced it and how it reflects the interests of the community – including segments who do not approve of or share Christian values.
The National Association of Broadcasters, which opposes the rule change, offers an online form for making comments on the FCC rule change – but the deadline is today. All comments must be filed under the assigned docket number No. 04-233, meaning that number must be included in all communications about the proposed rule change to be considered by the FCC.
Broadcasters don't like another element of the rule change – one that would require stations to have at least one employee on duty during all hours of operation. Breakthroughs in automated programming have made that unnecessary in recent years, so the rule change would mean more expense for some smaller-market stations.
Will all these rules and changes make radio better? I can't see how.
Radio Waves
WLTJ-FM (Q92.9) Pittsburgh will place Former B-94/WZPT jock John Kline and Kerri Griffith formerly of WZPT and WJJJ-FM on the morning mic beginning April 7.
"The Daddio of the Raddio" will appear at an upcoming car cruise in Irwin, Westmoreland County. Porky Chedwick will be the guest of honor at the borough's 17th annual car cruise April 26.
"The Daddio of the Raddio" will appear at an upcoming car cruise in Irwin, Westmoreland County. Porky Chedwick will be the guest of honor at the borough's 17th annual car cruise April 26.
Radio Waves
Select Blackberry Phones To Get XM XM RADIO MOBILE has selected QUICKPLAY's OPENVIDEO as the first media management platform to make XM RADIO MOBILE universally available on select BLACKBERRY smartphones. The service, which can run across major U.S. mobile service providers' networks, enables consumers to get 20 exclusive XM channels of commercial-free music and 24-hour comedy programming for just $7.99 per month with an option for a complimentary 24-hour trial.
Paulsen Exits The Wacky World
KDKA Pittsburgh evening co-host Scott Paulsen has had enough of the new show that teamed him with Co-host John Stiegerwald. If you tuned into the show on any given night you might wonder how has lasted this long. Stiegerwald will continue on a solo basis from 7-10pm.
Paulsen Exits The Wacky World
KDKA Pittsburgh evening co-host Scott Paulsen has had enough of the new show that teamed him with Co-host John Stiegerwald. If you tuned into the show on any given night you might wonder how has lasted this long. Stiegerwald will continue on a solo basis from 7-10pm.
Radio Waves
A Bit if the B lands at Q
WLTJ (Q92.9)/Pittsburgh has hired taps 21-year market vet John Cline for mornings, becoming Q92.9's first air personality. Previously, John was part of the B-9 morning show. After that he he handled mornings at crosstown WZPT-FM (Star 100.7) from 2003-06 before being a casualty of budget cuts.
WXDX Used As Part Of Contest Scam
CARTER MCDONALD pleaded guilty to pulling off a prize scam on 14 separate occasions around PITTSBURGH. MCDONALD would tell people he met on the street that he worked for CLEAR CHANNEL Alternative WXDX (105.9 THE X) and offer them concert tickets, flat-screen TVs and other prizes. All they needed to do to collect the purported freebies was pay cash up front to cover shipping costs.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY Judge DAVID R. CASHMAN sentenced him to consecutive terms of two years' probation on each of the theft counts and ordered him to submit to drug screening and pay $1,775 restitution.
Chicago Legend Wally Phillips Dies
WGN-AM/CHICAGO is reporting the passing of local radio legend WALLY PHILLIPS. The station, where PHILLIPS served as morning host from 1965 through 1986, and then moved to afternoons before his run at WGN ended on JANUARY 20, 1998, reports that PHILLIPS passed away after a five-year battle with Alzheimer's disease at 82. PHILLIPS, who worked at the old WCOP-A/CINCINNATI before moving to CHICAGO, served 42 years with WGN and hosted a weekly show on crosstown WAIT-AM after his retirement from WGN. He was inducted into the RADIO HALL OF FAME in 1993.
WLTJ (Q92.9)/Pittsburgh has hired taps 21-year market vet John Cline for mornings, becoming Q92.9's first air personality. Previously, John was part of the B-9 morning show. After that he he handled mornings at crosstown WZPT-FM (Star 100.7) from 2003-06 before being a casualty of budget cuts.
WXDX Used As Part Of Contest Scam
CARTER MCDONALD pleaded guilty to pulling off a prize scam on 14 separate occasions around PITTSBURGH. MCDONALD would tell people he met on the street that he worked for CLEAR CHANNEL Alternative WXDX (105.9 THE X) and offer them concert tickets, flat-screen TVs and other prizes. All they needed to do to collect the purported freebies was pay cash up front to cover shipping costs.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY Judge DAVID R. CASHMAN sentenced him to consecutive terms of two years' probation on each of the theft counts and ordered him to submit to drug screening and pay $1,775 restitution.
Chicago Legend Wally Phillips Dies
WGN-AM/CHICAGO is reporting the passing of local radio legend WALLY PHILLIPS. The station, where PHILLIPS served as morning host from 1965 through 1986, and then moved to afternoons before his run at WGN ended on JANUARY 20, 1998, reports that PHILLIPS passed away after a five-year battle with Alzheimer's disease at 82. PHILLIPS, who worked at the old WCOP-A/CINCINNATI before moving to CHICAGO, served 42 years with WGN and hosted a weekly show on crosstown WAIT-AM after his retirement from WGN. He was inducted into the RADIO HALL OF FAME in 1993.
Radio Waves
WEAE/Pittsburgh Names Thompson as General Manager
ESPN Radio vet Mike Thompson is named General Manager of Sports/Talk WEAE-AM (ESPN Radio 1250), the company-owned station in Pittsburgh, effective April 1. For the past year, he served as New Media PD for ESPN Radio at the company's headquarters in Bristol, CT
DOJ Approves XM-Sirius Merger
Saying the "evidence does not establish that combination of satellite radio providers would substantially reduce competition," the Department of Justice on Monday approved the XM-Sirius merger.
Let The Stones Bidding War Begin
While THE ROLLING STONES focus on the imminent release of their latest album, "Shine A Light," record companies are vying to sign the band to a long-term deal. UNIVERSAL MUSIC, SONY BMG and WARNER MUSIC have already begun courting THE STONES in an effort to wrest them away from their long-time label, EMI. The band’s contract expires in JUNE.
Jack Armstrong Remembered
XM 60s On 6 host TERRY YOUNG is doing a show dedicated to JACK, THURSDAY (3/27) from 4-8p (ET) on XM 6.
Mel Returns to B
After B-94 was killed in 2004, Melanie Taylor took over WTAE-TV taffic reports. Who says you can't relive the past? Taylor will be back on 93.7 again come April 1 when she joins the morning show. I like Melanie. I worked with her for awhile. While I wish her the best, I can't say I would recomend the move. Anyone want to do TV traffic at WTAE?
ESPN Radio vet Mike Thompson is named General Manager of Sports/Talk WEAE-AM (ESPN Radio 1250), the company-owned station in Pittsburgh, effective April 1. For the past year, he served as New Media PD for ESPN Radio at the company's headquarters in Bristol, CT
DOJ Approves XM-Sirius Merger
Saying the "evidence does not establish that combination of satellite radio providers would substantially reduce competition," the Department of Justice on Monday approved the XM-Sirius merger.
Let The Stones Bidding War Begin
While THE ROLLING STONES focus on the imminent release of their latest album, "Shine A Light," record companies are vying to sign the band to a long-term deal. UNIVERSAL MUSIC, SONY BMG and WARNER MUSIC have already begun courting THE STONES in an effort to wrest them away from their long-time label, EMI. The band’s contract expires in JUNE.
Jack Armstrong Remembered
XM 60s On 6 host TERRY YOUNG is doing a show dedicated to JACK, THURSDAY (3/27) from 4-8p (ET) on XM 6.
Mel Returns to B
After B-94 was killed in 2004, Melanie Taylor took over WTAE-TV taffic reports. Who says you can't relive the past? Taylor will be back on 93.7 again come April 1 when she joins the morning show. I like Melanie. I worked with her for awhile. While I wish her the best, I can't say I would recomend the move. Anyone want to do TV traffic at WTAE?
Radio Waves
Jackson Armstong Passes
Former "13Q" WKTQ (1320) personality who was also a fixture on Buffalo's WKBW (1520) has died. According to a message posted on Armstrong's MySpace page by his daughter, the 62-year-old DJ, whose real name was John C. Larsh, died Saturday at his home in North Carolina.
WLTJ becomes "Q 92.9"
Proclaiming itself as "Pittsburgh's Best Music Mix" WLTJ is now Q 92.9. The music format hasn't changed much, but rumor has it the entire airstaff has been wiped out. There is also a computerized voice after each song which announces the song and the artist followed by a liner.
Former "13Q" WKTQ (1320) personality who was also a fixture on Buffalo's WKBW (1520) has died. According to a message posted on Armstrong's MySpace page by his daughter, the 62-year-old DJ, whose real name was John C. Larsh, died Saturday at his home in North Carolina.
WLTJ becomes "Q 92.9"
Proclaiming itself as "Pittsburgh's Best Music Mix" WLTJ is now Q 92.9. The music format hasn't changed much, but rumor has it the entire airstaff has been wiped out. There is also a computerized voice after each song which announces the song and the artist followed by a liner.
Radio Waves: CBS FIRES MORE (Pittsburgh Hit!)
Yesterday I was calling for a CBS radio managment changes after a series of huge failures and changes at KDKA and CBS FM stations here in Pittsburgh. It's seems like I was not the only one thinking this way.
Pick slips are flying is at several CBS radio station.
In Chicago, THE SUN-TIMES reports that WXRT GM Michael Damsky is out after 24 years!
In Cleveland WDOK's Scott Miller is out.
Here in Pittsburgh, VP/GM Jim Meltzer is out of a job , along with an unknown Sales Manager.
This fallout continues a day after the firing of KDKA overnight host Gary Dickson. 
No word on if Keith Clark, vice president of programming for CBS Radio Pittsburgh survived but CBS should have written his name on a pink slip years ago.
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