Radio-Info News

OKC's "Spy" returns at 105.3

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:55:00 -0500

There’s a countdown to the return of “true alternative” on TheSpyFM site. That’s one of the tipoffs that KINB, Kingfisher, Oklahoma is (105.3) is due to drop its Spanish sports format and go back to the future as the reincarnation of Oklahoma City’s onetime “Spy” alternative rock format. Another – former Spy morning man Ferris O'Brien posting on the Oklahoma Board of Radio-Info.com. O'Brien is buying the former Citadel station from the Last Bastion Trust, says the Oklahoman newspaper. He says “this has been something I’ve been thinking about doing, wanting to be doing, for the last ten years.” When Citadel flipped then-KSYY from “Spy” to a Spanish music format in 2004 O’Brien did a Spy Radio show on sister rocker KATT (100.5). Now he says “if I break even and make a good living and can pay the bills and keep it on the air” – he’ll be happy.

Well-known Programmer Dene Hallam In Intensive Care

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:59:00 -0500

We’re very sad to report that veteran radio programmer Dene Hallam is in intensive care in Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta and his prognosis is reportedly not good. Hallam has been with the Moby In The Morning Network for the past two and a half years, and members of his work family are with him at the hospital. Moby says Hallam has been unresponsive for several days, and that a priest conducted Catholic last rites on Thursday night. Hallam has programmed such stations as KKBQ Houston, WWWW (W4) Detroit, KCMO-FM Kansas City, WDAF Kansas City and WKHX Atlanta. He started his career on the pop side, and was always proud of being one of the few programmers to have won Billboard Radio Awards for PD of the year in two different formats. Hallam is the father of three daughters: Elizabeth, Samantha and Hayleigh.

No one hurt at Chicago's WGN (720), when a woman throws a brick through the studio window

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:45:00 -0500

It happened around 11am, and late-morning personality John Williams was unhurt. He tells the Tribune “Chicago Breaking News” site he thought the brick might be a piece of foam but “it went right through.” There’s video of the damage on the website, which also shows the woman who apparently lobbed the brick through the street-level window. After she committed the act, she walked into the street and sat down in busy Michigan Avenue, saying the name of Michael Scott over and over. He’s the former president of the Chicago Board of Education who committed suicide earlier this week, according to the M.E.’s office. A Chicago police officer says the woman “may be a mental patient…she might be a little sick.”

RAB's Jeff Haley – end of third quarter "showed promise of an upswing", after 19% drop

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:55:00 -0500

The RAB’s Miller Kaplan-based revenue numbers put the local revenue decline for July-August-September 19%, and the national dropoff at 17%, for a combined average of 19%. Network revenue was down about 11%, while “digital” remains the only positive category, up 14% for those three months. RAB CEO Jeff Haley says “within the top 5 categories, we continue to see some advertisers aggressively increase their share of voice when compared to their higher-spending competitors.” Examples: Subway, Dunkin' Donuts, MetroPCS, plus carmakers Volvo and Hyundai. Year-to-date, radio’s revenues are down about 21%, considering local, national, network, digital and off-air. There are graphs and more details on the RAB.com site.

Christmas In The Air … and On The Air

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:59:00 -0500

More Christmas flipping from Phoenix to Wilmington. AC KESZ (99.9) Phoenix made the switch, today, Nov. 20. Morning host Beth McDonald made the announcement live on the air and live on Fox TV (channel 10) … “107.9 Lite FM” KXLT Boise is now “All Holiday Songs” … Gapwest Oldies KLDH “Kool 101.7” Duluth flips to Christmas music just days after rival Red Rock AC WWAX “92.1 Lite FM” … Outside of Philadelphia, WJBR Wilmington, DE started airing all Holiday music – a week ahead of their scheduled flip … The Radio-Info.com Pittsburgh Boards are predicting that two stations will go all holiday music tonight: WSHH and WWWS. Join the “festive” discussion.

New York City's "Lite-FM" flips the switch to holiday music

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:40:00 -0500

The long-awaited move by a New York City radio station to feature Christmas music came Friday morning when, as expected, the city’s top-rated radio station, with a cume of over 6 million according to the latest Arbitron PPMs, is now the Big Apple’s only holiday music station. Last year, both WLTW and WCBS-FM (101.1) both went to holiday music, even earlier than WLTW flipped this year, but WCBS-FM has no plans to change their usual classic hits music this year. Listen to WLTW-FM, and join the discussion on the New York Board.

Radio Remembers: Radio pioneer Ralph Widman; Oklahoma City host Lisa Mirick

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:05:00 -0500

Ralph Widman began his career at KTBS-AM in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1939, had a stint on Ft. Worth’s KFJZ, and spent time with WFAA radio and WFAA-TV. He was a manager of what is now KKDA-AM and did sports on both radio and TV. Widman left the studio, getting into the representation business and ran several rep firms. The Dallas Board of Radio-Info.com has more on Ralph Widman … She was a popular radio host in Oklahoma City, working on KRXO-FM (107.7) before joining KQOB-FM (96.9) and teaming with Ron Benton to make their morning show the top-rated in the market. Lisa Mirick left KQOB in 2006, due to personal issues. Prior to her death in Savannah, Georgia, she was battling ailments from years of alcohol abuse. Mirick passed away of unknown causes. She was only 47.

Emmis plans to go to court to get its Hungarian station license back

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:40:00 -0500

U.S. broadcaster Emmis Communications was awarded the license for Slager Radio in Hungary in 1997, and over 12 years, and nearly $170 million spent, it was the top-rated station in Hungary. In a controversial move, the The National Radio and Television Board, which is the Hungarian version of the FCC, refused to renew the license of Slager Radio, and awarded it to a national political party. Emmis announces they plan on “seeking relief in the court systems of Hungary and the European Union,” per statement released by the broadcaster. According to PoliticsHu.com, the representatives of nine nations, the US, Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway and Switzerland issued a joint statement condemning the “cancellation of the licenses of Slager and Danubius radio stations.”

Former WTKS, Orlando personality Shannon Burke gets 6 months in gunshot case

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:45:00 -0500

But Burke says he’s sober and in therapy, and he and his wife are having dinner tonight, says the Orlando Sentinel – not that many months after the incident at their home where he shot his dog and the bullet grazed his wife’s head. Burke was quickly dropped by Clear Channel’s talk/modern rock WTKS (104.1) and could have faced up to a 20 year sentence. But instead he pleaded guilty to a felony charge of cruelty to animals (for shooting the dog) and guility to a misdemeanor charge of using a firearm while under the influence of alcohol. He won’t have to start his 6-month prison sentence until December 31, and the Sentinel says he “gave his wife, who has since recovered [from the shooting] a big hug and kiss…[and] he asked her to make meatloaf for dinner.” She had previously taken out an order of protection against him. Radio-wise, Burke has begun buying two hours of weekend time on WORL (660) for a show about substance abuse, attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and recovery. The Orlando Board of Radio-Info.com is talking about the Shannon Burke case.

Making Moves: Friday, November 20, 2009

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:48:00 -0500

Candace Gonzales moves from her role as director of Marketing & Promotion for Alpha Broadcasting’s KINK Portland, to the new position of Events & Sponsorship Sales Manager for KINK-FM. Gonzales has worked for KINK (101.9) for 11 years. KINK is currently searching for the next Director of Promotion & Marketing. Candidates should send resumes to PD Dennis Constantine at: dennis.constantine@alphabroadcasting.com. … Radio-Info confirms Norfolk-Virginia Beach, Virginia’s Red Zebra-owned WXTG-AM/FM (1490 / 102.1) OM/PD Keith Bennett has been cut loose. No replacement has been named … DCRTV reports that former WCHH “Channel 104.3" Baltimore middayer Ty resurfaces on WWDC “DC 101” Washington D.C.. There, she'll be calling herself Bailey and replacing middayer Whitney, now heard on KNDD Seattle. Ty/Bailey will also host the weekend new music show “Local Lix” … John Hultman is retiring from “Newsradio 780” WBBM Chicago – for a second time. He retired in 1998, then returned in 2008. Now the 72-year old newsman is ready to leave once again, according to Robert Feder on Vocalo.org … “Big Jay” Sorenson is heading back to WCBS-FM (101.1) for part-time duties spinning the oldies, doing Thanksgiving and other weekend work.

Double flip in Austin, where Emmis will move adult alternative KGSR to 93.3, and turn 107.1 Spanish

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:30:00 -0500

This plan started in motion earlier this week, as Radio-Info previously reported, when Emmis Communications fired the on-air staff of “Hot 93.3” KDHT and announced they're dropping the hip-hop format. Here’s the latest – Emmis will move “Radio Austin” KGSR from 107.1, a Class C2 licensed to Bastrop, to 93.3, a full Class licensed to Cedar Park. In its place at 107.1 will be a new regional Mexican format. Austin 360.com says that for the next ten days, Emmis will simulcast KGSR on both frequencies, to conduct current listeners to the new spot on the dial. New call letters, slogan and DJs to be announced for the Spanish-language station at 5pm local time on Monday, November 30.

Panama City, Florida's "Island 106" under fire for a fake baby-left-home-alone bit

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:40:00 -0500

The caller to the WILN-FM (105.9) “That Guy” Kramer morning show said she left his 11-month old home alone in bed while she went out for dinner and ran errands. The call prompted a series of outraged listener calls to the station about the home-alone baby, and also a number of listeners notified police that someone was endangering their baby. Bay County Sheriff Dept. officers went to the station to investigate, and according to WJHG-TV, what the police discovered was that the caller was a DJ from another radio station, and the show segment was a hoax. Police are not expected to press any charges. The North Florida Board of Radio-Info.com is weighing in on the baby stunt.

Radio in England:

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:40:00 -0500

Six men suspected in the gruesome murder of of Sunrise Radio receptionist Geeta Aulakh, including her estranged husband, were released from a London jail on bail. Aulakh died of severe head injuries and a severed hand after being attacked near her home … Ford Ennals is named the first chief executive of Digital Radio UK, the company that will oversee the UK’s digital radio switchover … Jo Russell, formerly with Absolute Radio, takes over mornings on Birmingham’s BRMB, replacing Elliott Webb … Adventure Radio Group’s Lite FM Peterborough is changing its name to Connect FM (106.8) … Broadcast regulator OFCOM has approved the requested format change for Bristol’s Original 106.5, from album oriented rock to a mix of AOR with classic rock and some non-contemporary rock hits. But it must keep supplying news, around the clock.

Radio in Canada:

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:40:00 -0500

Former Virgin Radio 95.3 Vancouver host Buzz Bishop is moving to Calgary, taking over mornings on CFUL-FM (90.3) “Amp Radio” … Former CHED-AM (630) & CHQT-FM (92.5) promotions coordinator Khazma Tichon joins Edmonton’s former “Power 92” and now “Joe-FM” CKNG-FM (92.5) as Promotions Director … Radio-Info checks in with Winnipeg’s new CIUR-FM (104.7). We are told that the official launch date for “Winnipeg’s Illest Urban” is about December 11. Until then, “Streetz FM” is in test-mode, available in Winnipeg, but you can also listen to them online here … For the latest talk on radio in Ontario, check out the Radio-Info Toronto board – Discuss it.

Dial Global’s St. John Adds Mainstream Country PD Duties

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:45:00 -0500

John St. John takes over the programming reigns of Dial Global’s syndicated “Mainstream Country” format. He succeeds Penny Mitchell, who remains a member of the format’s programming team as APD and air personality. St. John returned to Dial Global earlier this year as PD of its “Classic Country” format. He has also programmed the company’s Denver-based “Hot Country” format. The veteran broadcaster is well known as the former PD of KYGO Denver. He has also worked at country stations in Kansas City, Birmingham, Ala., and Jacksonville, Fla. “Mainstream Country” is Dial Global’s largest music format, with more than 230 affiliate stations.

A U.K. radio collaboration produces an online player that offers 400 stations

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:10:00 -0500

It’s called the UK Radioplayer project, a collaboration of the BBC, Radio Centre, Global Radio and Guardian Media Group. It will group as many as 400 Ofcom-licensed national, local, community and student stations in the U.K. According to MediaBuyer, the new radio will include a “search engine…to allow users to search by program type – for news, sports, specific music genres or even individual songs.” The new software is due for release early next year. One reason – U.K. online radio revenue is expected to grow 12% this year, to $441 million, says SNL Kagan.

Low Power FM bill approved by the Senate Commerce Committee

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:40:00 -0500

S. 592 is the Local Community Radio Act, and it would allow the FCC to issue hundreds of new Low Power FM licenses, even in larger markets where that’s not possible now because of the interference rules. The bill would relax those rules by removing the third-adjacent protection for full-power FMs. All five members of the current FCC have told Congress they're in favor of the change, and now the bill sponsored by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and John McCain (R-AZ) moves to the full Senate. The grassroots Free Press group says “today’s vote brings us one step closer to a new golden era of radio.” On the other side, the NAB is re-doubling its lobbying efforts to keep the bill from coming up for a vote.

Obama names former Bush press secretary Dana Perino, 7 more, to Broadcasting Board of Governors

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:15:00 -0500

It’s a complete overhaul of the body that supervises Voice of America, Radio Free Europe, Radio Free Asia, Radio and TV Marti, and Alhurra and Radio Sawa. For the chairman’s position, President Obama has nominated Walter Isaacson. The journalist and best-selling author is currently the chair of Teach for America and president of the Aspen Institute, and he’s been the editor of Time Magazine, the Chairman/CEO of CNN and the vice-chairman of the post-Katrina Louisiana Recovery Authority. Other nominees include Sony Pictures Entertainment Chairman/CEO Michael Lynton. Former Harry Reid chief of staff Susan McCue, who’s the founder of the ONE Campaign to combat global poverty and who had previously nominated by George W. Bush. Blue Line Strategic Communications President Michael Meehan. Former Knoxville mayor and former Bush Administration ambassador to Poland Victor Ashe. And Dana Perino, current Fox News contributor and former press secretary to Bush during his second term. All the nominations are subject to approval by the Senate.

Emmis-owned Slager Radio taken away by the Hungarian government

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:53:00 -0500

The government of Hungary has shut down Emmis Communications-owned Slager Radio (100.8FM), transferring the license to a Hungarian political party, despite a higher bid from Emmis. In the 12 years Emmis has owned what was the most popular Hungarian radio station, the company spent nearly $170 million on the station, and employed an all-Hungarian staff. Ratings show Slager reached nearly 3.5 million listeners per week, out of a national population of 10 million. Emmis Chairman & CEO Jeff Smulyan says, “We are deeply disappointed, not only for Emmis and our people, but most of all for the people of Hungary. Whenever freedom and democracy are taken away, every citizen suffers immeasurably. All of Hungary has suffered today.” Emmis announced they plan to file a lawsuit in the courts of Hungary and the European Union, demanding relief for what it calls process that was “politically corrupt and contrary to the interests of the Hungarian people.”

Talker John Batchelor goes into weekend syndication via WABC Radio

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:01:00 -0500

Batchelor’s topical show is already airing on two Citadel-owned AMs (KSFO, San Francisco at 560 and WMAL, Washington at 630) as well as Greater Media’s WTKK, Boston (96.9). The New York-based WABC Radio Syndication office says some people characterize Batchelor’s show as “Matt Drudge meets Coast to Coast.” His own quote: “Bankers are always suspect, and the only mistake we make is not to be cynical enough about Wall Street.” His satellite-distributed show airs 9pm-1am, Saturdays and Sundays.

A Florida jury clears WELE-AM station owner Doug Wilhite of two teen sex charges

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:15:00 -0500

He faced charges of having sex with a teenage boy, and after a three day trial, a jury found Doug Wilhite not guilty. Wilhite, the owner of Daytona-area WELE-AM (1380) Ormond Beach, was accused of raping and molesting a 15-year-old boy at his home. Following the acquittal, Wilhite’s attorney told the Orlando Sentinel, “The evidence in this case was that all these children made false accusations of rape in the past, for personal advantage .. the jury was able to get through that and see it was just allegations.” Wilhite still faces further allegations of contributing to the delinquency of a child, showing obscene material to a minor, lewd conduct and lewd or lascivious exhibition.

Orlando's WMFE-FM will drop classical music for talk on Friday

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:21:00 -0500

Starting Friday afternoon at 4:00pm, Orlando radio listeners will gain a new full-time news/talk format on non-commercial WMFE-FM (90.7). President and CEO Jose Fajardo writes, “People are increasingly interested in knowing what’s happening around the world … Now, they will be able to count on us through the day to connect them to what’s happening in their world – be it Central Florida or around the globe.” Florida Today reports the new programming will include shows such as the BBC World Update, The Diane Rehm Show, Fresh Air with Terry Gross and All Things Considered. WMFE will move its existing classical music format to their HD-2 radio channel starting Friday afternoon.

Making Moves: Thursday, November 19, 2009

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:20:00 -0500

Midday lady Trina Neely exits Hot AC WMEE (97.3) Ft. Wayne, which recently went all holiday music … Boston’s WTKK “Talk 96.9” adds “The Big Money Show” hosted by Steve Cordasco. The show will air on Saturdays from 8 -10 am, starting this Saturday, Nov. 21 … According to the San Francisco Chronicle, KTRB “XTRA Sports 860” extends their deal with the Oakland A’s to air games through the 2019 season – another ten years. Discuss it … The holiday format flip of the day: Huntington, West Virginia’s WMGA-FM (97.9) will drop “Soft Rock” for Christmas music starting Friday morning … KID-FM (96.1) in Idaho Falls, Idaho drops the syndicated Big D & Bubba in mornings for the local Jeff & Josh, according to their website … Astoria, Oregon’s KMUN-FM (91.9) lost their signal when a storm toppled their antenna. Sister-station KCPB-FM (90.9) is carrying their programming until the tower can be repaired, says Oregon Media Central.

WVIM Memphis PD "T.J." Exits

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:21:00 -0500

Country WVIM (95.3 the Rebel) Memphis PD/morning man Tim Jones was laid off Nov .18. Prior to joining the station in June, Jones programmed crosstown country station WGKX. Jones can be reached at 901-216-3617 or showdawg_1@yahoo.com. A 25-second welcome video from Jones remains on the home page of the station’s site.

'Tis the season to change formats...

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:07:00 -0500

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, even before Thanksgiving. In Philadelphia, while no station has officially flipped, Greater Media’s WPEN-FM (97.5) has converted their HD-2 signal to Christmas music. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, listeners have WAJI-FM (95.1), WMEE-FM (97.3) & WJOE-FM (106.3) all playing holiday songs. In Raleigh, North Carolina, WRDU-FM (106,1) has flipped from country music to Christmas music – ahead of a later change to talk as “Rush Radio.” Clear Channel’s KHLX-FM (93.1) in Sacramento, California has also turned to holiday hits. And, internet radio’s AccuHolidays is launching a new holiday-themed music channel each day for the next 40 days through Christmas, according to their website.

Superadio signs “The Weekend Throwdown”

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:20:00 -0500

“Throwdown" is hosted by Jagger, who also holds down two other gigs in New York City: He’s night jock at Clear Channel’s WKTU (103.5) and MD at top 40 sister “Z100” WHTZ. Jagger has been self-syndicating his weekend “Throwdown” since 2008, and currently has 22 stations including KZZP Phoenix and KONN Denver. Now he’s got a home at Superadio.

Charlotte owner/talkshow host Danny Fontana sells WDYT (1220)

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:25:00 -0500

Fontana paid $975,000 for the Kings Mountain, NC station in 2005 and turned it into a conservative talker with Sean Hannity and Bill O'Reilly, but was forced to take it silent in January for financial reasons. Fontana tells the Charlotte Observer, “It was a noble effort in a difficult economic time…I wish I’d never done it. I lost a lot of money.” He’s selling WDYT (25-kw days, 100 watts at night) for just $425,000. It will become the second Spanish-language religious station operated by High Point-based Iglesia Nueva Vida. Last year the church bought WGOS, High Point (1070) for $750,000. Fontana continues to be a contributor to Fox Business Channel and has a daily business show on the Inspiration Network cable channel. The Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill Board of Radio-Info.com is here.

Emmis begins stunting on "Hot 93.3" KDHT in Austin, Texas

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:25:00 -0500

Not only is the hip-hop format history on KDHT-FM, but parent company Emmis also fired the entire on-air staff, according to a source at the station, who adds that “A new format will debut on the 93.3 frequency this Friday.” KDHT is currently running jockless. Listen to “Hot 93.3” while it’s stunting. The boards are discussing the change.

Ex-partner "shocked and saddened" as former WCSX, Detroit DJ sues station for sexual harassment

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:15:00 -0500

Lynne Woodison Lyman, the former co-host of the “J.J. & Lynne” morning show on classic rock WCSX-FM (94.7), spent 11 years with the Greater Media station, the last eight years teamed with J.J. (James Johnson) in morning drive. Now Lyman claims in her suit that she was “surrounded by a discriminatory and unlawful work environment where women were described as sex objects and derided on a daily basis.” Her lawsuit also alleges her former co-host “showed her nude photographs on his computer screen on a daily basis and would harass her with derogatory terms and sexual references while they were broadcasting on the air.” Lyman alleges that she complained in 2006 about the harassment. The show was dropped in 2008, with WCSX citing low ratings. Lyman’s attorney tells the Detroit News that the station and Greater Media “really wrecked her career.” Johnson was not named in the lawsuit. He later issued a statement (carried in another Detroit News story) saying he was “both shocked and saddened by the completely false allegations made by my friend of more than 30 years.” Radio-Info asked Greater Media about the suit and was told “We have no comment about pending or ongoing litigation.”

Former Clear Channel University faculty members open new "ClearWater Performance Group"

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:30:00 -0500

They'd worked together for more than five years prior to the May 2009 shutdown of the training and coaching facility for Clear Channel sellers and managers. They won’t be accepting any media clients until April 1, 2010, but they're pursuing business in the transportation, senior living and sectors. The goal is “performance acceleration” done in collaboration with senior management. The principals of ClearWater are Gayle Treichel Bunge, Dennis Douglass and Heather Richetto-Rumley. Managing Partner Richetto-Rumley is at Heather@ClearwaterPG.com, and the website is here.

Wendy Williams gets a new commitment from Fox TV

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:30:00 -0500

The former syndicated radio host, whose show originated from Inner City’s Urban WBLS (107.5) New York, has learned that her TV-talk show has a commitment from Fox TV to run through the 2011-2012 season. Williams left WBLS and her Westwood syndicated radio show behind this past summer to concentrate on the television show. She was also recently inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame at the November 7th gala in Chicago. Williams' talk show is one of several which hit the television airwaves this year. BET (which also airs Williams show at night) debuted the Mo’Nique Show, hosted by comedian and former radio show host Mo’Nique. Singer/Songwriter and current syndicated radio show host Brian McKnight (whose night show is based out of Emmis Urban AC WRKS New York) has a syndicated variety/talk show. One who is no longer in the TV-talk show biz? Citadel Media’s syndicated afternoon man Michael Baisden, whose former show was dropped by TV One.

Cox Radio Atlanta makes moves with two PDs

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:11:00 -0500

Lee Cagle, PD of Rhythmic WBTS “95.5 the Beat”, adds PD duties over AC “B98.5” WSB-FM, while Jay Dixon, PD of Urban AC WALR “Kiss 104.1”, adds PD oversight of Classic Hits WSRV “97.1 the River.” Both stations were previously programmed by Jeff McHugh, who exited earlier this month. Join the discussion on the Atlanta Board.

Radio in Canada:

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:13:00 -0500

Sirius Canada launches the first official satellite radio application for iPhone and iPod touch users in Canada. It will be available for free from Apple’s App Store for Sirius Canada subscribers … Vancouver’s CKNW-AM (980) adds the syndicated “Coast to Coast AM” with George Noory for overnights … Four-decade radio veteran and longtime Toronto CHUM-FM (104.5) morning show co-host Roger Ashby will be inducted to the Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Hall of Fame … The hot topic on the Radio-Info Canada board is the flip of Hamilton, Ontario’s CING-FM (95.3) from country to the “Greatest Hits of the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s” – Discuss it.

Radio Around the World:

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:06:00 -0500

AUSTRALIA: Melbourne’s 3AW has yet to reach contracts with morning host Neil Mitchell and afternoon host Derryn Hinch, who both have double-digit ratings … In other 3AW news, Australian Rules Football broadcaster Rex Hunt is leaving the station after a 20-year run, moving across town to TripleM Radio (104.5) … PHILIPPINES: National Union of Journalists of the Philippines is outraged after a provincial Vice-Governor told a host on Radio Natin-FM not to discuss a a land case on the air … BULGARIA: Police in Sofia arrested a lawyer and a former prisoner for threatening former radio host Bobby Tsankov, who is a star witness at the trial of a drug kingpin … UGANDA: The government reportedly ordered Kampala’s Nenah-FM to cancel a scheduled interview with the Forum for Democratic Change party president, hours before it was to air.

KCRW, Los Angeles general manager Ruth Seymour to retire after 32 years

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:35:00 -0500

Seymour tells the staff at one of public radio’s strongest operations that “for almost all of you, I am the only manager you've known…some of you go back with me to John Adams Junior High. We've made a lot of history together.” The history of KCRW (89.9) includes being an early flagship of public radio national programming as well as the creator of syndicated programs such as Harry Shearer’s “Le Show.” KCRW’s role as a tastemaker in the music community is legendary, because of its location in the heart of the music and movie industries. L.A. Observed has more on the role of Ruth Seymour at news-and-variety KCRW, Santa Monica, plus her letter to the staff. The Los Angeles Board at Radio-Info is talking about Seymour’s contributions, here.

Owen Murphy promoted to PD of "ESPN 710" Seattle

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:05:00 -0500

Bonneville gives the PD duties at all-sports KIRO-AM to APD Murphy. He’s been with the station since January 2009. Past gigs have included a stint as producer at MLB.com, and at ESPN Radio as producer for the Mike & Mike show. Murphy was part of the team that helped transform KIRO to its all sports format when the News & Talk format moved over to the FM dial at 97.3.

A former Texas sheriff is busted for operating a pirate radio station

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:30:00 -0500

A former Travis County, Texas sheriff is charged with illegally operating an unlicensed FM station. The FCC has ordered Raymond Frank to pay $10,000 for “willful and repeated violation of Section 301 of the Communications Act of 1934.” KXAN-TV reports Frank is going to fight the charges, saying since he’s a resident of the “Republic of Texas, he is not subject to the laws of the United states or the Commission’s Rules.” Frank also said “the Commission lacks jurisdiction over his actions, because he operated a radio station solely within the boundaries of the State of Texas.” Frank, who ran the Travis County Sheriff’s Office from 1972 to 1981, had operated illegally for two years and was easy to find. He had a radio tower in his backyard.

Sirius XM host Diana Falzone is granted a restraining order against actor Anthony Michael Hall

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:30:00 -0500

Maybe he didn’t spend enough time in detention during “The Breakfast Club?” A New York City judge granted a restraining order against Anthony Michael Hall, saying he needs to stay away from ex-girlfriend and Sirius XM Radio host Diana Falzone. The New York Post reports Hall allegedly tried to kick his way through Falzone’s apartment door, and then smacked her head into a wall. The Post reports a Hall spokesman says “All of the allegations are erroneous and will be addressed accordingly.” Falzone is the host of the “Cosmolicious with Diana” show on Cosmo Radio, heard on Sirius XM.

Fired Seattle KVI morning host Kirby Wilbur tells his side of the story

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:15:00 -0500

Wilbur was cut loose last Thursday after his morning show on Seattle’s KVI-AM (570), with the company citing his contract and ratings. The longtime Seattle talk show host tells a different story on his blog. Wilbur says three years ago, he was offered a 50% salary increase, more than he was expecting, and four months ago, he sent a memo to management saying “I was willing to take a cut in salary, because I understood the financial situation that Fisher (Communications) was in.” Wilbur says that memo went unanswered. Wilbur also questioned ratings as a reason he was fired, writing “We were ahead of Glenn Beck,” and “We were the highest-rated daypart on the station, consistently outperforming the rest of the (syndicated) shows on the station.” Wilbur was replaced, at least temporarily, by the syndicated Laura ingraham. Wilbur added that at least one large advertiser has dropped their commitment with KVI due to Wilbur’s departure, and questioned why management did not keep Wilbur’s firing a private matter. KVI, which has taken some heat over the Wilbur firing, has gone as far as creating a special number to call for listener comments on the matter. More comments, from Radio-Info Seattle-Board users, here.

Austin's KLBJ-AM reverses course and will bring back Todd & Don

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:30:00 -0500

The mid-morning duo was dumped as a team after a July incident when co-host Don Pryor repeatedly used the slur “wetback.” KLBJ-AM (590) parent company Emmis Communications received a number of complaints, including boycott threats from the Hispanic community. Pryor was pulled from the air, but not fired, while co-host Todd Jeffries continued solo. KEYE-TV says Emmis has reversed course, and will reinstate Pryor to the airwaves and team him back with Jeffries, starting December 7 in their original timeslot. Employees at all of Emmis Austin’s six stations will be taking mandatory diversity training, as part of the outcome of meetings with Hispanic leaders.

Consolidation in Billings, Montana: Cherry Creek Radio sells to Connoisseur

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:45:00 -0500

Cherry Creek owns three stations: classic rock KRKX (94.1), “Today’s New Rock/Zone 96.3” KRZN, and news/talk KBLG (910). While buyer Connoisseur Media has two FMs – CHR “Planet 106.7” KPLN and classic hits “My 105.9” KWMY (the former country/rock “Bar” KPBR). Connoisseur will start operating the Zone and KBLG on Friday (November 20) and then KRKX on December 1. That’s necessary because on November 30, Connoisseur is ending its LMA of Chaparral’s 92.5, where it’s been operating “My 92.5” for the past three years. Otherwise, Connoisseur would be over the FCC’s local-market limit for FMs, with five. No new format yet at 92.5, which the Billings Gazette says will be simulcasting with 105.9 through the end of November. Joe Schwartz of Cherry Creek Radio says “The Billings market needed a consolidation of ownership….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.” No price announced for the deal brokered by Kalil & Co.

Radio in England:

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:30:00 -0500

Absolute Radio reported a $4.5 million loss for the year, blamed on the changeover from Virgin Radio and the recession … Absolute Radio evening host Tim Shaw is leaving. Shaw’s blog says he’s preparing “for the biggest challenge of his life” … Simon Dale announced he’s leaving Bauer Radio’s “Kiss-100” afternoon drive slot, joining the Heart Network for an evening show in January … Rupert Garrett, the controller for Global Radio’s Smooth Radio brand, joins Jazz-FM as head of sales … BBC Radio 4 host Roger Bolton, who has an audience of 1.6 million for his Sunday religious show, will step aside after a 12-year run in January … BBC Radio 1 & 1Xtra is running an anti-bullying campaign all week, highlighting the problem of bullying against schoolkids … Police arrested the ex-husband of London’s Sunrise Radio receptionist Geeta Aulakh. Passersby found Aulakh on the street, severely beaten and with a severed hand. She later died at a local hospital. Aulakh was only 26.

Making Moves: Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:30:00 -0500

Regent Communications names Ben Hoffman, formerly of Clear Channel, to the newly created position of Director of Interactive Sales … In Corpus Christi, Texas, KEYS-AM (1440) moves afternoon local talk host Eric Von Wade to mornings, replacing Bob Jones, who Radio-Info reported last week was cut loose. The rest of the station’s daytime programs are now syndicated … Justin Bryant is the new PD at Fredericksburg, Virginia’s WWUZ-FM (96.9) & WVBX-FM (99.3), replacing Victor Starr … The holiday format flip of the day: Bay City, Michigan’s WHNN-FM (96.1) drops “Classic Hits” for “Christmas Classics” … WCAP-AM (980) in Lowell will air University Of Massachusetts/Lowell men’s hockey, with Bob Ellis & Chaz Scoggins calling the action … After a two-decade run doing traffic in Philadelphia and overnights on KYW-AM (1060), MetroNetworks reporter Tom “Hey, Bud” Collins is leaving radio for a job with PENNDOT … If you've been stuck on the Capital Beltway, you know this voice. WTOP-FM (103.5) traffic reporter “Beltway Bob” Marbourg celebrates his 30th anniversary reporting traffic in the nation’s capital.