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Top Radio Stories

Merlin Media Senior Director of Digital Programming & Marketing Rich McLaughlin exits. Prior to Merlin, he served as Digital Program Director for Clear Channel Radio. He joined the radio giant in November, 2009, from Fordham University's WFUV-FM/New York where he was Content Director. He's also served as Alt-Nation Format Manager for Sirius Radio. Reach him at richardcmclaughlin@gmail.com. (02-03-12)

As Madonna prepares to headline the halftime show for Super Bowl XLVI this weekend, Clear Channel announced that it has partnered with the 53-year-old pop diva to launch a first-of-its-kind worldwide campaign of her latest single and video, "Give Me All Your Luvin'," utilizing its extensive international media platform in a new and innovative way.

The campaign - which includes the new single airing on Clear Channel and partner radio stations and websites around the world, simultaneously with the full music video running on Clear Channel's spectacular billboards; and more than 1,600 digital displays in the US, France, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Singapore, Belgium, Finland and the UK - will reach more than 150 million people around the world. The video and single will also be available on demand at iHeartRadio.com; on Clear Channel radio station websites in the US, Australia and New Zealand; and via Global Radio's Capital FM Network in the UK. Clear Channel will also use extensive on-air and online promotions to drive listeners and Madonna fans to iTunes, where they can buy the new single and pre-order (with a special discount offer available only through the weekend) her new album MDNA, scheduled to be released in March 2012.

This morning at 9a.m., the "Give Me All Your Luvin'" single aired simultaneously across 95 Clear Channel U.S. stations as well as Clear Channel stations in Australia and New Zealand. The single will also run across stations throughout the United Kingdom through Clear Channel's partnership with Global Radio's Capital FM Network, the UK's premier radio company. The premiere will feature a voice introduction by Madonna, and will be followed by an exclusive megamix of unreleased tracks from MDNA, her new album.

Participating Clear Channel stations will also continue to play "Give Me All Your Luvin'" at the top of every hour and air the megamix throughout the weekend. New York City stations are also promoting Madonna's halftime appearance. A contest will enable a winner and guest to attend this weekend's big game to watch Madonna live during her performance at the halftime show. Participating stations will also direct people how to enter to win a trip for two to the kickoff of Madonna's world tour overseas.

"Madonna Radio" will be featured on the homepage of iHeartRadio.com. The single will stream on demand on the home pages of 95 Clear Channel CHR and Rhythmic CHR websites, and promotion for the single will be posted on all Clear Channel CHR and Rhythmic CHR station Facebook pages, as well as the iHeartRadio Facebook and Twitter pages - enabling Clear Channel to reach millions of more listeners and social fans.

"This first of its kind multi-media premiere with Madonna demonstrates the unequalled scope and strength of the entire Clear Channel platform - a range and depth that enables us to work with the most talented and creative artists in the world to develop truly groundbreaking promotional opportunities," said Bob Pittman, CEO of Clear Channel. "By combining the power of broadcast radio on several continents; online and mobile via iHeartRadio and our station websites; and our dynamic digital outdoor advertising network with Madonna's extraordinary talent, creative drive and taste for innovation, we can reach millions of Madonna fans around the world and present audiences around the world with an unforgettable entertainment experience." (02-03-12)

Beasley Broadcast Group posted a 6.8% drop in fourth quarter net revenue to $25.2 million from $27 million in 2010. Station operating income (SOI) was also down, dropping 9.5% to $9.4 million from $10.4 million. The company reported Q4 net income rose 1.7% to $3.4 million (15 cents per share) from $3.3 million (15 cents) in the year-ago period.

The $1.8 million, or 6.8% decline in net revenue during Q4 primarily reflects the impact of a reduction in national and political advertising compared with the same period in 2010.

Chairman/CEO George G. Beasley commented, "Radio advertising remained relatively stable despite widespread economic concerns and volatility in the capital markets throughout the year. Importantly, during the fourth quarter and throughout 2011, we continued to make progress across the organization in enhancing operating efficiencies and maintaining a disciplined approach to spending."

He continued, "Overall, the industry recorded seven consecutive quarters of growth through the third quarter of 2011 which underscores our belief that radio remains both resilient and highly relevant in a digital world. During the quarter, the company celebrated its 50th consecutive year in radio broadcasting and our success over this period has been defined by our ability to bring consumers and advertisers a platform that efficiently addresses their respective needs." (02-03-12)

Variety KSZR-FM/Tucson flips to CHR as "i97-5" with the slogan "All The Hits!" targeting today's young adults including Gen Y listeners and adults 20-35. The new top 40 outlet launched Friday with 10,000 songs in a row, giving listeners what it calls "a high impact, concentrated sample of what 'All The Hits' really means."

Market Manager Ken Kowalcek said, "We couldn't be more excited about the new i97-5! This station brings an energy and enthusiasm that revolves around all the hit music that is the heart of i97-5." (02-03-12)

In response to a letter from CEA, CTIA and musicFirst to members of the Congressional Black Caucus claiming that NAB is seeking a "mandate" of FM chips in cellphones, NAB Executive VP/Communications Dennis Wharton said in a statement:

"It is disappointing that CEA, CTIA and musicFirst are falsely claiming that NAB is seeking a mandated radio chip in cellphones. We have said repeatedly to these organizations that NAB supports a market solution to this issue, and even CTIA admits as much in the attached fact sheet."

He continued, "By distorting our position, CEA, CTIA and musicFirst are doing a disservice to policymakers who deserve open and honest information. From a public safety perspective alone, voluntary introduction of radio chips in cellphones makes perfect sense. It would be our hope that when it comes to saving lives in times of emergency, our friends at CEA, CTIA and musicFirst would move beyond intimidation tactics and special interest politics and encourage a substantive debate on the merits of this issue." (02-03-12)

Longtime radio talk host Dan Fagan will return to the airwaves on February 6. His new show will air on Fox News Talk 95.5 FM and KOAN-AM (1020)/Anchorage, AK, from 11am-2pm. Currently the host of the "Dan Fagan Show" on Fox 4 KTBY and owner/publisher of the website alaskastandard.com, Fagan joins a line-up with Laura Ingraham, Dennis Prager, John Gibson, Shannyn Moore and Tom Anderson.

"We at KOAN are excited about having Dan Fagan on board," said KOAN Program Director Justin McDonald. "For years now, when someone talks about talk radio in Anchorage, they talk about Dan Fagan."

Fagan was last heard at Talk KFQD-AM/Anchorage as afternoon host until his exit in February, 2011, after nine years with the station. (02-03-12)

The former owner of three Scranton, Pennsylvania radio stations (WWDL-FM, WICK-AM and WYCK-AM), Doug Lane, has made a plea deal in his child sex abuse case. Lane was charged with molesting several teenage boys after befriending them and offering them jobs working at his radio stations. He also gave them alcohol.

In a deal worked out with prosecutors, Lane entered guilty plea and Judge Michael Barrasse shaved six years off the minimum sentence and 14 years off the maximum, resulting in a sentence of eight to 16 years, rather than 14 to 30 years. At his trial, Lane had entered an innocent plea and was convicted on two counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and six counts of possession of child pornography. (02-03-12)

FCC Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau Chief Joel Gurin will be exiting his position. Gurin has held the position since first joining the Commission in late 2009. His effective departure date is February 17, 2012 and Media Bureau Deputy Chief Kris Monteith will step in to serve as Acting Bureau Chief.

FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski lamented, "I want to thank Joel for his work to harness technology to empower consumers with the information and tools they need in today's rapidly evolving communications marketplace. We'll miss JOEL's dedication as a stalwart advocate for consumers, working to solve real problems in smart ways." (02-03-12)

Police in Norwood, Ohio have arrested 35-year-old Ben Ary, the former Chief Engineer for Cumulus' Cincinnati-based stations. Ary's employment was terminated just days before his arrest on a felony theft charge. Ary stands charged with allegedly stealing over $129,000 in broadcasting equipment -- crimes that date back to May 2011.

The stations effected include Warm 98, 96 Rock, The Fox, Journey 94.1 and WGRR. According to local WCPO 9 News, surprisingly Ary appears to just have been cited by police, meaning he was not jailed. Confusing considering it's a felony charge and a significant value of equipment taken. Ary is due in court to answer to the charge next week. (02-03-12)

Christian radio broadcaster Salem Communications appoints Phil Boyce as VP/Director of Spoken Word Format. In this new role, Boyce will oversee the programming practices of all spoken word English formats. He will also lead Salem's programming department to help improve its News/Talk, Teaching and Talk, and Business formatted stations. Boyce joins Salem after three years as President of Programming at Talk Radio Network.

Salem Radio President Dave Santrella said, "Phil Boyce brings an impressive pedigree to Salem and we are confident that our media platforms, our advertisers, our programmers and our listeners will all profit from his oversight. Phil's track record is a testament to his abilities and we look forward to reaping the rewards of his talents to our mutual benefit."

Boyce added, "The more I learn about Salem Communications, the more impressed I am with this great company. I could not be more thrilled to be joining them as we work together to make their stations even better. This company has become one of the best places to work in radio, exhibiting class, integrity, and a true dedication to great programming."

Boyce is known for his 14-year stint as Program Director of WABC-AM/New York. During his time there, Boyce was named VP/News Talk Programming for ABC Radio and later Citadel. He is widely credited with hiring Sean Hannity in New York and taking his show into national syndication for ABC in 2001. Later he hired Mark Levin at WABC and took him into national syndication in 2006. (02-02-12)

Entercom Hot AC WZPL-FM/Indianapolis Program Director J.R. Ammons is elevated to cluster Opeartions Manager, adding Adult Hits WNTR-FM (MY107.9) and News/Talk WXNT-AM (1430) to his oversight duties. Ammons previously programmed CHR WSTR-FM (Star 94)/Atlanta until October, 2010. He left Star to program KMXV-FM/Kansas City and was later named Program Director of WAPE-FM/Jacksonville, FL.

Ammons said, "I'm really excited about what we have going on at Entercom/Indianapolis. GM Jenny Skjodt has done a great job putting this team together and I really look forward to doing my part helping this group achieve the goals we've set. It will be fun continuing to program WZPL and now getting to work alongside the very talented Scott Roddy with MY107.9 and News Talk 1430 WXNT."

Ammon's career also includes programming and air personality duties at stations in Baton Rouge, Charlotte, New Orleans, Raleigh and Little Rock. (02-02-12)

Rich Broadcasting has closed on its three-station buy three Idaho stations from Pacific Empire Radio Corporation for $1.1 million. Included in the deal were KRXK-AM (1230/1kw) and KGTM-FM (98.1/100kw)/Rexburg and KBJX-FM (106.3/100kw)/Shelly.

The seller Is An Idaho-based company headed by President/CEO Kurt Luchs. Pacific Empire also owns stations in Oregon and Idaho. The buyer is headed by Richard Mecham, a 30-year veteran of the radio business. Rich also owns additional radio stations in Idaho.

Kalil & Co. was the exclusive broker for this transaction. (02-02-12)

CHR WXXL-FM (XL 106.7)/Orlando Program Director and Cluster Digital PD Michael Bryan is appointed OM of the company's co-owned 5-station cluster in Nashville. He replaces Rich Davis who is now serving as PD for sister KDWB-FM/Minneapolis. Bryan begins his new duties in Nashville, effective immediately, while retaining his Orlando duties until a replacement is named.

Bryan said, "Nashville is truly a special city and I can't wait to get started! The past five years have been the best of my career by far. The staff of XL1067 and CC/Orlando are some of the most competitive and brightest professionals you'll find in this business."

Before his five years in Orlando, Bryan worked as PD of Rhythmic CHR WNVZ-FM (Z104)/Norfolk, Assistant PD at CHR WEZB-FM (B97)/New Orleans and PD at Adult Hits WSMW-FM (98.7 Simon)/Greensboro. (02-02-12)

iBiquity Digital President/CEO Bob Struble, the developer of HD Radio, recounts his findings after scanning 1.85 million square feet of exhibit space at CES. His conclusion: "I can't say I saw every one of the 31,000 exhibitor's booths, but I did see a lot, and came to a distressing realization: AM/FM radio is the only analog technology remaining at the CES, everything else is digital... and that is not a long term growth strategy."

The 2012 International CES showed that the vastly superior consumer experience from digital technologies will win out over the limited capabilities of analog technology. Struble says broadcasters must deliver "compelling digital consumer experiences equal to other digital options, in cars, on CE devices and cellular handsets/tablets, or be left behind by consumers and advertisers alike."

Struble's takeaway: "There are entire digital industries gunning for radio's audience and ad dollars. Radio broadcasters must upgrade to over-the-air digital HD Radio broadcasting to address these competitive threats. Analog radio's limited capabilities will not compete well in this new [automotive] digital dash. Unless broadcasters upgrade their offering to digital to meet consumer expectations and work together to deliver a compelling and consistent consumer experience, they risk AM/FM becoming a forgotten app in the digital dashboard."

To read "Thoughts on Radio's Digital Future -- I Looked Hard But Could Not See," go to www.ibiquity.com/struble. (02-02-12)

Radio Partners LLC has agreed to purchase a FM construction permit 970911MV, licensed to the ski town of Steamboat Springs, CO, for $125,000 from Ramsey Leasing, pending FCC approval. The buyer is headed by Don Tlapek who also owns an FM construction permit for Olathe, CO. The seller is headed by Kelly Ramsey who also has broadcast interests in Arkansas.

Bill Whitley of Media Services Group's Dallas office served as the exclusive broker in this transaction. (02-02-12)

Merlin Media and CBS have been going at it over their respective New York City station slogans. First, CBS demanded Merlin's WEMP stop saying, "You Give Us 22 Minutes. We'll Give You The World" and "Traffic And Weather Together." Merlin's Randy Michaels responded by demanding that CBS stop saying "New York's One and Only News Station."

Well, yesterday Merlin got word that while they disagree with Merlin's assertions, CBS will replace the slogan. 1010 WINS' announcers now make the following claim at the top of the hour: "More people get their news from 1010 than any other radio station in the nation." If only Newt and Mitt could get along so well. (02-02-12)

KSCF-FM (Sophie@103.7)/San Diego has announced that The Alliance for Women in Media (formerly American Women in Radio & Television) Southern California Chapter will honor the Sophie@103.7 Program Director with the Excellence in Radio Management Award at the 55th Annual Genii Awards on April 24 in Los Angeles. Fruge also handles programming duties at sister KXMB-FM (Mix 94.1) and KXTE-FM (X107.5)/Las Vegas.

The gala recognizes outstanding achievements by women in media and benefits AWM SoCal's Scholarship program, which provides financial assistance to promising college students pursuing careers in the media.

"I joined the Southern California Chapter of the Alliance for Women in Media to be inspired and it worked right away," Fruge said. "Every time I attend an event I leave feeling grateful for everything I have accomplished in the business. I network with amazing women and hope that we continue to inspire and nurture women on the rise in the industry. I am truly honored to be recognized as a Program Director by this organization." (02-02-12)

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