Top Radio News

Radio Groups Push FCC to Lift Ownership Caps

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 2:09pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Connoisseur Media and Beasley Media Group are urging the Federal Communications Commission to eliminate or significantly relax local radio ownership limits, arguing that rules adopted nearly 30 years ago no longer reflect today's competitive media landscape and are putting the radio industry at a growing disadvantage.

The filings, submitted as ex parte communications in the FCC's ongoing 2022 Quadrennial Review of broadcast ownership rules, contend that radio stations now compete not only with one another, but also with streaming services, podcasts, satellite radio, social media platforms and digital advertising companies that operate without comparable ownership restrictions.

Connoisseur Media met with FCC Media Bureau officials on July 15, while Beasley Media Group executives, led by CEO Caroline Beasley, held separate meetings with Commissioners Olivia Trusty on July 16 and Anna M. Gomez on July 20. In each meeting, the companies urged the Commission to repeal or substantially revise the local radio ownership rules.

Connoisseur's presentation argues that the ownership caps have remained unchanged since 1996 despite dramatic changes in the audio and advertising marketplace. The company points to the emergence of digital competitors such as Spotify, Apple Music, SiriusXM and podcasting, along with the dominance of Google, Meta, Amazon and other technology companies in local advertising. According to the filing, digital media now accounts for more than 70% of local advertising while radio's share has steadily declined.

The presentation also cites declining industry economics, noting local radio advertising revenue has fallen 43% since 2013, station transaction values have dropped sharply, and hundreds of AM and commercial FM stations have exited the market since 2019.

Both broadcasters argue that allowing greater ownership concentration would provide the scale needed to compete with digital companies, strengthen local service, improve advertising efficiencies and enable operators to acquire struggling stations that currently provide little local programming. Connoisseur also contends that simply relaxing the current ownership subcaps would not go far enough, urging the FCC to eliminate the local radio ownership rule entirely.

Beasley echoed many of the same arguments in its filings, telling commissioners that the current ownership restrictions impair broadcasters' ability to achieve necessary scale, compete effectively for audiences and advertising revenue, and continue providing local programming and emergency information. The company urged the FCC to repeal or substantially revise the ownership rules to reflect today's competitive realities.

KBAY Country Expands to Stronger 98.5 FM Signal

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 11:12am CT

KBAY-FM San Jose

Connoisseur Media has expanded the reach of 98.5 KBAY (Bay Country) by moving the Country outlet to the stronger 98.5 FM 10kW signal, increasing its coverage throughout the South Bay and surrounding communities.

Effective immediately, KBAY's Country format is now heard on 98.5 FM, formerly home to Classic Rock KUFX. During the transition, the station will continue to simulcast on its longtime frequency until the previously announced sale of that signal to K-LOVE is completed.

"Expanding Bay Country to 98.5 is an investment in both our listeners and our advertising partners," said Regional Operations Manager Brian "Fig" Figula. "This gives KBAY the stronger signal and broader reach the brand deserves while preserving everything our audience already loves about the station."

Keith Dakin, Senior Vice President of Programming for Connoisseur Media, said the timing aligns with the continued popularity of country music in 2026. He added that the stronger signal gives the company an opportunity to better serve Bay Area country fans with a lineup featuring Danny Miller, Tony Michaels and Emily Harlan.

All current KBAY air personalities will remain with the station. Meanwhile, KUFX will continue as KFOX Classic Rock, available on KUFX-FM-HD2 and online through Super Hi-Fi, allowing listeners to continue accessing its Classic Rock programming on digital platforms.

Connoisseur said the signal expansion will be followed by additional programming leadership announcements for its West Coast markets in the coming weeks.

Audacy Adds FM Sports Simulcast in Houston

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 11:00am CT

KKHH (95.7 The Fan) Houston

Audacy flips Adult Hits KKHH (95.7 The Spot) to "95.7 The Fan," expanding its sports radio footprint in Houston with an FM simulcast of KILT (SportsRadio 610), beginning August 13. The move gives the company an FM sports station in each of the nation's top 10 markets. Audacy also announced that 95.7 The Fan will become the flagship FM home of the Houston Texans, carrying game broadcasts and year-round team coverage.

"Houston boasts some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, and they deserve both the content and distribution that matches their energy," said Chris Oliviero, Chief Business Officer for Audacy. He called the launch a milestone that reinforces the company's leadership in local sports audio.

The weekday lineup will feature "Payne and Pendergast" from 6-10am, "In The Loop with John Lopez and Reggie Adetula" from 10am-2pm, "The Drive with Stoerner and Hughley" from 2-6pm, and "Area 45 with Bijani and Creighton" airing nightly following "Texans All Access."

The Houston launch marks Audacy's 23rd FM sports station and expands its sports audio portfolio, which includes more than 40 owned-and-operated sports stations, 160 digital sports channels and a sports podcast network with more than 600 titles.

Amie Pollard Acquires Heritage WOOF Stations

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 11:35am CT

Amie Pollard

Veteran broadcaster Amie Pollard has acquired Dothan, AL heritage stations WOOF-FM (99.7) and WOOF-AM (560), along with FM translators W261AT (100.1) and W296DQ (107.1), through her newly formed AMP Media LLC. The acquisition marks a milestone for the nearly 80-year-old stations, making Pollard only the third woman to own the WOOF properties since their founding in 1948.

Pollard's broadcasting career spans more than 25 years in the Wiregrass region, beginning in radio sales before advancing into leadership roles including General Manager, Operations Manager, Sales Manager and Program Director. She also became well known as co-host of "Pollard & K.C. in the Morning" on WTVY-FM, where she also served as Program Director.

Beyond radio, Pollard gained national exposure as a cast member on NBC's Great American Road Trip and later created and served as consulting producer for the regional reality series Bama Belles, which aired on BBC Worldwide and TLC. She currently co-hosts "Pollard & Owens in the Morning" on B105.3 and serves as General Manager of Kensington Digital Media's four-station Dothan cluster.

The WOOF stations were founded by broadcasting pioneer Agnes Simpson, who signed on WOOF-AM in 1948 and later launched WOOF-FM in 1964 as one of Alabama's first FM radio stations. Following Simpson's death in 2012, her daughter, Leigh Simpson, continued operating the stations before selling them to Mike Holderfield and Woof Inc. AMP Media has now acquired the stations from Holderfield.

"To step into ownership of WOOF-AM and FM is a profound honor and a true full-circle moment for me," Pollard said. "This station is woven into the fabric of the Wiregrass area. I am dedicated to preserving the legendary, hometown heritage that Agnes Simpson and her daughter Leigh so beautifully nurtured, while continuing to serve our local listeners and business partners with the warm, family-first radio they have loved for generations."

The stations' AC format serves a coverage area stretching from Troy, AL, to the outskirts of Panama City, FL.

Cumulus Media Renews Memphis Tigers Partnership

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 11:21am CT

WKIM-FM Memphis

Cumulus Media Memphis has renewed its partnership with Tiger Sports Properties, the locally based Learfield team, extending its multi-year agreement to remain the radio home of University of Memphis athletics.

Under the renewed agreement, WKIM-FM (News Talk 98.9 The Roar) will continue to broadcast Memphis Tigers football, men's basketball and women's basketball, along with football and men's basketball coaches' shows. The station will remain the official "Home of the Tigers."

Morgan D. Bohannon, Vice President and Market Manager of Cumulus Memphis, said the partnership reflects the company's commitment to the university and its fans. "Being the 'Home of the Tigers' is a mutually beneficial partnership full of fast, fun action and filled with passion from the community," he said.

The agreement also includes promotional support, weekly features and opportunities for fans to connect with coaches, players and the athletic program throughout the year. Cumulus said it will continue to expand fan engagement through its on-air, digital and social media platforms.

Ditch, Program Director for News Talk 98.9 The Roar of Memphis, said serving as the flagship station for the Memphis Tigers Radio Network is a point of pride. "Around here, being 'The Tiger's Station' is a really big deal, and at News Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis, we carry that title loud and proud," he said.

Greg Gaston, General Manager of Tiger Sports Properties, added the renewed partnership comes at a pivotal time for Memphis Athletics, calling the station "a powerful platform" for connecting fans with the university's student-athletes, coaches and programs while supporting the department's future growth.

TikTok, iHeart Launch "Delivering Happiness" Podcast

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 2:17pm CT

Delivering Happiness

TikTok and iHeartPodcasts have partnered to bring the celebrity-driven series "Delivering Happiness" to podcast listeners as part of the expanding TikTok Podcast Network. Hosted by actor Nick Turturro and created by Lawrence Longo of Prince St. Pizza, the series combines real pizza deliveries with unscripted conversations featuring celebrities, athletes and creators.

Originally developed as a video series, the show is now available as a podcast for the first time on the iHeartRadio app and other major podcast platforms.

The concept grew out of conversations between Turturro and Longo, who challenged the actor to make actual pizza deliveries if he wanted to become involved with the New York-based pizza brand. The result is a series in which unexpected conversations unfold during deliveries, in cars, on front porches and at neighborhood businesses.

Since its debut, "Delivering Happiness" has featured guests including Spike Lee, Ice-T, Bill Burr, Dana White, Seth Rollins, Christina Milian and Alex Rodriguez.

Dan Page, Global Head of Global Media and Licensing Partnerships at TikTok, said the show exemplifies the type of original programming the company is building for its podcast network. Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts, said Turturro has a talent for turning ordinary pizza deliveries into authentic conversations that resonate with audiences.

Longo said the series reflects Prince St. Pizza's belief that food brings people together. "Pizza has always been the great connector," he said. "People let their guard down around pizza. They tell stories they weren't planning to tell. They laugh harder. The conversations become real."

Founded in Manhattan's Nolita neighborhood more than a decade ago, Prince St. Pizza has expanded to more than 19 locations across the U.S. New episodes of "Delivering Happiness" will be released each Wednesday, with clips and behind-the-scenes content also available on TikTok.

MediaCo Appoints Brian Fisher as its New President

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 3:46pm CT

Brian Fisher

MediaCo Holding has announced a series of executive leadership appointments. Effective immediately, CRO Brian Fisher (pictured) has been named President of MediaCo. CEO Albert Rodriguez will continue in his current role, focusing on the company's long-term strategy, growth initiatives and shareholder value, while Fisher assumes responsibility for day-to-day operations and execution.

The company also named Roberto Castro as interim Chief Financial Officer and interim Treasurer. Castro will lead the finance organization while MediaCo conducts a search for a permanent CFO.

"MediaCo has built tremendous momentum, and these leadership appointments position us well for our next phase of growth," Rodriguez said. "Brian is the right leader to serve as President, and Roberto's financial expertise will provide strong leadership and continuity for our Finance organization."

Fisher said he is eager to help lead the company's next chapter. "I'm honored to serve as President during such an exciting time for MediaCo," he said. "We have a strong portfolio of brands, a talented team and a clear strategic vision. I look forward to executing our strategy and creating long-term value for our audiences, partners and shareholders."

Audacy Stations Coming to SiriusXM Nationwide

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 11:20am CT

Audacy and SiriusXM

Audacy and SiriusXM have entered into a new content partnership that will bring 42 of Audacy's sports, news and talk stations from 29 U.S. markets to SiriusXM listeners nationwide, significantly expanding the satellite broadcaster's lineup of local programming.

The rollout begins September 1, when 23 Audacy sports stations join the SiriusXM platform in time for the start of football season. The lineup includes major brands such as WFAN New York, SportsRadio 94WIP Philadelphia, WEEI Boston, 105.3 The Fan Dallas, 95.7 The Game San Francisco and 97.1 The Ticket Detroit.

An additional 19 Audacy news and talk stations, including 1010 WINS New York, KNX News Los Angeles, WBBM Newsradio Chicago, KCBS All News San Francisco, KYW Newsradio Philadelphia and KMOX St. Louis, will be added later this year.

SiriusXM President and Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein said the agreement strengthens the company's already extensive sports lineup by adding trusted local voices from around the country.

"By adding Audacy's extensive lineup of sports stations, we're making those trusted hometown voices available to fans wherever they are across North America," Greenstein said. "Together, we're delivering an even more complete audio experience -- bringing live games, premier national sports talk, and hometown conversations together in one place."

Audacy President and CEO Kelli Turner said the partnership extends the company's local brands to a national audience. "Audacy's sports brands are deeply connected to the cities, teams and fan communities they serve, and being able to extend our reach nationally through SiriusXM is a natural fit," Turner said. "We look forward to working together with SiriusXM to bring our outstanding talent and content to sports fans and news and talk listeners wherever they are."

The initial sports lineup will include nine stations available to SiriusXM subscribers in vehicles and on the SiriusXM app, with another 14 sports outlets available through the app and in vehicles equipped with SiriusXM's latest 360L technology. The news and talk stations will also be available through the SiriusXM app and 360L-equipped vehicles when they launch later this year.

The Audacy sports stations will be included in most SiriusXM subscription plans, including Platinum, All Access and Music & Entertainment. Eligible subscription plans will gain access to the news and talk stations once they are added to the service later this year.

WWNN Expands to Germany Through BLR Partnership

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 2:00pm CT

Worldwide News Network (WWNN)

Worldwide News Network (WWNN), the radio news network launched by Red Apple Audio Networks in May, has entered its first European market through a distribution partnership with Germany's BLR, marking the network's first international expansion.

Under the agreement, BLR, Germany's leading radio news and content syndicator, will distribute WWNN's English-language top- and bottom-of-the-hour newscasts, along with breaking news alerts, to broadcasters throughout Germany.

Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis said the move advances WWNN's mission of becoming a global news brand. "Audiences around the globe deserve the facts about what is going on in our world and that is why we created the Worldwide News Network," Catsimatidis said. "We're delighted to partner with BLR and look forward to working with them as we continue to expand our reach into more European markets and around the world."

Lee Harris, Senior Vice President of News and Programming for WWNN, called the agreement an important milestone for the network. "We're excited to partner with BLR to bring an authentic American perspective on world events," Harris said. "This is the first step in building an international network of partners who value trusted, high-quality radio journalism."

BLR CEO and Program Director Sebastian Steinmayr said the partnership offers German listeners direct access to U.S. news coverage while also serving American expatriates and military personnel living in the country. "The United States remains one of Germany's closest and most important allies," Steinmayr said. "Many Americans have lived in Germany for years, listen to local radio every day, and we believe they'll appreciate having access to news from their home country as part of that experience."

The partnership is supported by Radio.Cloud, whose cloud-native newsroom platform is used by both BLR and WWNN, enabling content production and distribution across international markets.

IAB Tech Lab Updates Podcast Measurement Standards

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 2:13pm CT

IAB Tech Lab

IAB Tech Lab has released version 2.3 of its Podcast Technical Measurement Guidelines, updating the industry's framework for measuring podcast downloads, audiences and ad delivery using server-side log data. The guidelines are open for public comment through August 19.

The revised standards provide updated guidance for measuring both audio and video podcasts distributed through open RSS feeds and podcast applications that rely on server-side file delivery. The goal is to improve consistency in podcast audience measurement and advertising reporting across the industry.

"Measurement only works at scale if everyone is counting the same way," said Anthony Katsur, CEO of IAB Tech Lab. "These updates give the industry clearer guidance for today's podcast ecosystem and help reduce the inconsistencies that slow deals down and create unnecessary questions. That is good for buyers, publishers and everyone responsible for reporting the numbers."

Version 2.3 replaces the term "listener" with "podcast consumer" and adds guidance covering URL prefix measurement, RSS enclosure URL changes, invalid traffic, and different measurement window approaches. According to IAB Tech Lab, the terminology change also lays the groundwork for Version 3.0, expected in 2027, which will focus on the growing market for streaming video podcasts.

Because most podcast apps still do not provide client-side playback confirmation, the industry continues to depend on server-side log analysis for audience measurement. The updated guidelines are intended to reduce discrepancies in reported metrics, better address video podcasts, improve handling of duplicate downloads and platform-driven anomalies, and promote more consistent reporting.

"Server-side log data remains the backbone of podcast measurement, and these updates reflect the continued evolution of the medium," said Hugo Martel, Senior Vice President of Podcast and Content Delivery at Triton Digital. "Clearer guidance for video podcast measurement is a welcome addition, helping the industry adapt as podcast consumption expands across formats while giving publishers and advertisers greater confidence in the insights they rely on."

Robert Freeland, Founder and CTO of Podtrac, said the revisions will help improve trust in industry metrics. "These updates give the market more clarity around how podcast audiences and ad delivery should be measured, which ultimately benefits everyone relying on those numbers," Freeland said. "Our industry depends on trusted measurement that everyone can understand and apply consistently. These updates help bring that consistency."

DTS AutoStage Expands Daily In-Car Radio Ratings

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 20, 2026 | 2:14pm CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

Xperi's DTS AutoStage has expanded its in-car AM/FM radio measurement service to more than 300 U.S. markets, providing audience data from approximately 6 million connected vehicles and, for the first time, overnight ratings across every market.

The latest findings are highlighted in a new Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active blog, which describes the development as AM/FM radio's "big data" moment. According to the report, DTS AutoStage now delivers audience samples that are five to 10 times larger than current radio ratings samples, giving broadcasters access to daily listening trends refreshed every 24 hours.

Unlike television viewing data, which can include viewing in empty rooms, the report notes that in-car radio listening always occurs with people present. It also says the larger sample sizes produce more stable audience trends across markets of all sizes without relying on listener recall or wearable measurement devices.

The blog cites Edison Research's Share of Ear study, which shows AM/FM radio accounts for 85% of all ad-supported in-car audio listening. More than 60% of all AM/FM listening among adults 13-34 takes place in vehicles, while in-car listening represents 57% of listening among adults 25-54. The report also notes that 72% of AM/FM listening among women 18-34 and about two-thirds of listening among women 25-54 occurs in the car.

The blog emphasizes that stations must provide DTS AutoStage with real-time "now playing" metadata from their automation systems to ensure accurate audience reporting. Without that data feed, stations may significantly underreport their listening. As an example, two Townsquare Media stations in Buffalo reportedly saw their combined share increase dramatically after enabling the metadata feed.

DTS AutoStage currently measures listening from vehicles manufactured by 10 automakers, representing domestic, European, Asian and electric vehicle brands. Even the smallest markets now include monthly samples of more than 1,000 vehicles, with sample sizes continuing to grow.

The report also highlights that DTS AutoStage reports audience data for all AM/FM stations, regardless of whether they subscribe to the service. It contrasts that approach with Nielsen Audio's subscriber-based reporting model and cites a May 2026 Advertiser Perceptions survey in which 78% of agencies and advertisers said audience measurement should reflect all media behavior regardless of subscription status, while 66% said Nielsen's ratings have become less reliable since removing non-subscribing stations.

Read Westwood One's Audio Active blog here.

Saga Promotes Paul O'Malley to Revenue VP

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 20, 2026 | 4:38pm CT

Paul O'Malley

Saga Communications has promoted Paul O'Malley to Senior Vice President of Revenue Development, expanding the longtime market executive's responsibilities to oversee the company's digital revenue strategy.

O'Malley, who has served as President and General Manager of Saga's Charleston Radio Group since joining the company in 2018, will now work with market managers, media advisors and clients across the company's portfolio to strengthen consultative selling, expand digital advertising solutions and identify new revenue opportunities.

"I'm honored by the opportunity to help lead Saga's next phase of growth by developing innovative revenue strategies, strengthening client partnerships, and working alongside our exceptional fulfillment partners and corporate team," O'Malley said.

Saga said it will begin a search for O'Malley's successor in Charleston. The South Carolina cluster includes Adult Hits WAVF (101.7 Chuck FM), Country WCKN (92.5 Kickin' Country), Gospel WSPO/W261DG (Heaven 1390/100.1) and Urban AC WXST (Star 99.7).

Before joining Saga, O'Malley served as Senior Vice President of Music and Entertainment at Westwood One. Earlier in his career, he held leadership positions with Citadel Communications, including Market Manager in Charleston and Southeast Regional Vice President, as well as Southeast Regional Vice President for Katz Radio. He also served as Station Manager and General Sales Manager at KYSR (Star 98.7) in Los Angeles.

Veteran Radio Programmer Mike Marino Dies at 60

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 20, 2026 | 2:41pm CT

Mike Marino

Veteran radio programmer, consultant and content creator Mike Marino has died following a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 60. The news was announced by longtime friend and business partner Jason Hillery, Operations Manager for Midwest Communications in Green Bay, who said Marino kept his illness private and continued working with stations and morning shows across the country throughout his battle.

"Some may be surprised to hear that Mike was sick," Hillery wrote. "He kept it private. He didn't want anyone to worry. That was Mike. He put up one heck of a fight and never let his diagnosis deter or distract him from working with morning shows around the country and programming his syndicated Urban AC format."

Marino spent more than three decades in radio programming, earning a reputation as one of the industry's most versatile programmers and helping pioneer the Rhythmic AC and Modern AC/Adult Top 40 formats. He first gained national attention as Music Director and Assistant Program Director at KGGI Riverside, CA, before serving as Assistant Program Director at KMEL San Francisco.

He later launched KMXB (Mix 94.1) in Las Vegas and went on to program stations including KKPN Corpus Christi, WKRQ Cincinnati, and KHHT (Hot 92.3) Los Angeles. While with Clear Channel, he also assumed programming responsibilities for KYSR (Star 98.7) in Los Angeles.

For the past 25 years, Marino operated the consulting and content companies GotRooster.com, formerly TheBitXChange, and AmeriCountry.com, providing prep services, programming consultation and coaching to stations and personalities nationwide. He also developed and programmed a syndicated Urban AC format and consulted stations in markets including Denver, Fresno and Palm Springs.

"Mike lived and breathed radio," Hillery said. "He loved the industry, he loved the people in the industry, and was always finding ways to help talent improve their craft. In conversations with Mike, he was always brainstorming ideas, always keeping his finger on the pulse, and always the greatest friend."

Marino is survived by his wife, Leslie, and stepdaughter, Jennifer. Memorial service arrangements have not yet been announced.

Jennifer Williams Named Interim Beasley Contact

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 20, 2026 | 2:54pm CT

Jennifer Williams

Beasley Media Group has named Jennifer Williams as its interim corporate communications contact following the departure of Chief Communications Officer Heidi Raphael, who will become President and CEO of the New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA).

In an email to industry colleagues, Raphael said her final day with Beasley will be August 14, ahead of her August 17 start date at NYSBA. She thanked members of the media for their support during her nearly nine years with the company.

"First and foremost, I would like to thank you for your incredible support over the past nine years," Raphael wrote. "It has truly been a pleasure working with you to share Beasley Media Group's news, milestones, and stories."

Raphael said Williams will serve as the company's interim communications contact through the end of the year. "Jennifer has played an important role at both Greater Media and Beasley Media Group over the years and brings an incredible depth of industry knowledge, experience, and professionalism to the role," Raphael said. "She will be a wonderful resource for you."

Williams has served as Beasley Media Group's Vice President of Digital Marketing since 2019, overseeing the company's digital marketing strategy, audience engagement and advertiser growth initiatives. Before joining Beasley, she spent nearly two decades at Greater Media, where she was Director of Digital Marketing and previously served as Marketing Director for WCSX-FM in Detroit. Earlier in her career, she held on-air and marketing positions at stations in Grand Rapids, Lansing and Jackson, MI.

A graduate of Albion College, Williams is a past chair and current board member of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Foundation and serves on the executive committee of the Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio Group.

Raphael was recently named President and CEO of the New York State Broadcasters Association, succeeding longtime President and CEO David Donovan, who will remain with the organization overseeing government relations and advocacy.

WFMI's Mike Chandler Receives Honorary Doctorate

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 20, 2026 | 3:29pm CT

L-R: Bishop Stan Williams, Mike Chandler, and Academic Dean Dr. Van Gayton

Mike Chandler, President and CEO of Rejoice Networks and owner of WFMI-FM (REJOICE 100.9) in Virginia Beach, has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Communication by The Williams Bible Institute and Seminary. The honor recognizes Chandler's three-decade career in broadcast engineering and gospel media, as well as his contributions to Christian communications and gospel broadcasting.

A Jacksonville, FL native, Chandler studied at Florida State University before beginning his career as an engineer on NASA's Space Shuttle Program at Kennedy Space Center. He later transitioned into broadcasting, joining Willis Broadcasting in Virginia Beach as a corporate engineer under the late Bishop Willis.

Chandler went on to build what is now Rejoice Networks, formerly the REJOICE! Musical Soul Food Gospel Radio Network, and today oversees the company's operations while also owning WFMI-FM (REJOICE 100.9). He currently leads the network's expansion into digital and streaming media.

"I didn't plan on any of this -- I just wanted to keep the signal clear, first on a rocket, then on a radio tower," Chandler said. "I'm grateful to Bishop Stan Williams and Dr. Dee Williams for this."

Chandler resides in Maryland with his wife, April.

Do Good Fest Raises $200K for Youth Mental Health

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 20, 2026 | 3:24pm CT

WEZF (Star 92.9) Burlington, VT

WEZF (Star 92.9) Burlington, VT and its five Vox AM/FM Digital sister stations helped raise $200,000 for youth mental health programs across Vermont through the 2026 National Life Group Do Good Fest. The July 11 benefit concert drew more than 10,000 attendees to National Life Group's campus in Montpelier, with the stations contributing tens of thousands of dollars in on-air and digital promotional support leading up to the event.

Star 92.9 also broadcast live throughout the day, with morning hosts Mike and Mary interviewing performers and station personalities introducing artists from the stage. The station additionally promoted the Beats for Good high school band competition, won by the Glam Cowboys from Harwood Union High School in Moretown, VT. The group received $5,000 for its school's music program and opened the festival, which also featured performances by Augustana, Smash Mouth, Neon Trees and Toad the Wet Sprocket.

Proceeds from the event will expand access to youth mental health resources, including crisis support, counseling services and family assistance programs. Funding will be distributed equally among five Vermont nonprofit organizations selected by the National Life Peace of Mind Fund: Clara Martin Center, Community Care Network, Elevate Youth Services, Howard Center, and Spectrum Youth & Family Services.

The family-friendly event also featured a nonprofit village showcasing 25 local charities and community organizations.

During the festival, National Life Group Chair, CEO and President Mehran Assadi joined Star 92.9's Mary Cenci on stage to present ceremonial $40,000 checks to each of the five beneficiary organizations.

"At National Life, Do Good Fest is more than a concert; it's a reflection of who we are and what we stand for," Assadi said. "By bringing people together to support youth mental health initiatives."

NAB Presses Congress on AM Radio Bill

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 17, 2026 | 3:00pm CT

National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)

Broadcasters from 31 states traveled to Capitol Hill this week to urge Congress to pass the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, joining emergency managers, public safety officials and advocacy organizations in a coordinated effort to preserve AM radio in new vehicles.

The advocacy campaign, organized by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), brought together broadcasters with representatives from AARP, the International Association of Fire Chiefs and local emergency management agencies to emphasize AM radio's role in delivering trusted news, weather alerts and emergency information.

"This week, broadcasters from across the country came to Washington, D.C., to deliver a clear message to Congress: it is time to finish the job and pass the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act," NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt said. "Congress has everything it needs to act. It is time to finish the job and send this bill to the president's desk."

The legislation has gained broad bipartisan support in Congress, along with the endorsement of President Donald Trump and backing from more than 115 organizations representing public safety, agriculture, senior citizens, labor and consumer interests, according to NAB.

Broadcasters and emergency officials used the fly-in to share firsthand accounts of AM radio's importance during emergencies. Sharon Tinsley, President of the Alabama Broadcasters Association, credited her local AM station with helping her avoid a tornado by providing real-time weather updates. James Coker, Director of Alabama's Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency, told lawmakers AM radio remains a trusted source of information when disasters disrupt other communications systems.

The advocacy effort also extended beyond congressional meetings. Broadcasters promoted the legislation through local media interviews, social media campaigns and a mobile billboard that circled Capitol Hill highlighting the bill's more than 300 congressional co-sponsors. Supporters also generated more than 40,000 messages to lawmakers during the week, adding to nearly one million letters sent in support of the legislation.

NAB said the measure remains a priority as Congress faces a limited number of legislative days before shifting attention to the midterm elections, arguing that preserving AM radio in vehicles is critical to maintaining a resilient public safety communications network.

Read NAB's blog post here.