FBI Investigating Rise In Media Swatting Incidents

This week saw a wave of "swatting" incidents targeted several conservative media personalities, including a talk show host. Swatting involves making a fake 911 call to dispatch police to an unsuspecting victim’s home, often under the pretense of a serious crime.

Joe Pags, a veteran San Antonio radio host whose show continues to air nationwide, reported being swatted in the early hours of Wednesday morning. He said the perpetrator contacted Comal County sheriff’s deputies, falsely claiming a shooting and hostage crisis was unfolding at his residence. Footage from Pags’ security camera captured one of the many deputies who arrived, guns drawn, in response to the hoax.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Pags remarked, "It’s as terrifying for the police as it is for me. They don’t want to stumble into a firefight at 2:30 a.m. in rural Comal County, Texas. Their goal is to protect people and be available for genuine emergencies."

Pags took to X to share his experience, posting, "Yes—my family and I were swatted. Here’s how it unfolded, including the video from my front door camera at 2:35 a.m. How would you handle this? This has to end!"

On Friday, FBI Director Kash Patel addressed the surge in swatting attacks against prominent conservative voices, stating, "I want to confront the disturbing increase in swatting incidents aimed at media figures. The FBI is tracking this dangerous pattern, and my team is actively investigating to ensure accountability. This isn’t a political issue—using law enforcement as a weapon against any American is morally wrong and puts lives at risk, including those of our officers. We won’t stand for it. We’re partnering with local authorities to stamp out these crimes."

I want to address the alarming rise in ‘Swatting’ incidents targeting media figures. The FBI is aware of this dangerous trend, and my team and I are already taking action to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.

This isn’t about politics—weaponizing law enforcement…

— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 14, 2025

Among other reported victims this week were social media influencer Gunther Eagleman and Infowars host Chase Geiser, both of whom said they were targeted by false swatting calls. Conservative commentators Shawn Farash, Nick Sortor, and the popular parody account Catturd also claimed to have been swatted in recent days, highlighting the breadth of this troubling trend.

Trump Airs Personal Grievances During DOJ Address

President Trump’s much-anticipated appearance at the Justice Department headquarters on Friday began as a victorious moment but soon turned into a bitter airing of personal grudges, showcasing his newfound authority over an agency that once sought to bring him to justice.

The event, staged in the Justice Department’s Great Hall, was promoted as a significant policy speech aimed at redirecting the department away from what Trump has called the Biden administration’s political “weaponization” and toward a tougher stance on crime, punishment, and the drug crisis.

Yet, over the course of an hour, Trump strayed from his script, using the podium to single out lawyers and former prosecutors by name in a space meant to symbolize unbiased justice. He accused the department’s prior leaders of attempting to ruin him and branded former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. as the leader of a “crime” family.

In a stark contrast to history, Trump labeled his foes “scum” in the very room where, in 1940, Attorney General Robert Jackson gave a landmark address calling on prosecutors to uphold “fair play” over a relentless pursuit of victory.

🚨 WATCH: President Trump says liberal media’s coverage that encouraged judges to rule against him may be ILLEGAL:

"You're gonna have these these cases... I believe that CNN and MSDNC, who literally write 97% bad about me, are political arms of the Democrat Party. And in my… pic.twitter.com/VprYN4h1Zj

— TV News Now (@TVNewsNow) March 14, 2025

During the speech, Trump targeted a range of individuals and groups he viewed as adversaries, including former Special Counsel Jack Smith, whom he called "deranged," and officials from the Biden administration responsible for the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, which he described as "the most humiliating time in the history of our country." He asserted that "the people who did this to us should go to jail," framing their actions as deserving of criminal punishment. He also vowed to "insist upon and demand full and complete accountability for the wrongs and abuses that have occurred," suggesting a broad retaliatory agenda against those he believes have wronged him or the country.

Trump’s comments extended to the media, where he singled out outlets like CNN and MSNBC, claiming they "literally write 97.6% bad about me" and operate as "political arms of the Democrat Party." He argued that their negative coverage was "corrupt and illegal," asserting that it influences judges and "changes law," though he provided no specific legal basis for this claim. He further criticized major newspapers like The New York Times and The Washington Post, alleging they conspire with Democratic officials to sway judicial outcomes in cases against him. 

TV Ratings: FOX News Closing the Gap With Networks

Fox News has been making waves in 2025, closing the gap with traditional broadcast networks—ABC, CBS, and NBC—in primetime viewership, a feat that underscores its growing dominance in the television landscape. Reports indicate that Fox News is not just leading cable news but is chasing down, and in some cases surpassing, the Big Three broadcast networks in key ratings metrics, particularly during weekday primetime slots.

Since the start of 2025, Fox News has consistently outperformed at least two of the major broadcast networks in Monday-through-Friday primetime viewership, averaging millions of viewers nightly. 

For the week of March 3, 2025, Nielsen Media Research data shows Fox News pulling in 4.8 million total viewers in primetime, topping CBS (4.2 million), NBC (3.4 million), and ABC (2.6 million). This is a remarkable achievement considering Fox News reaches 63.6 million households via cable, far fewer than the 111 to 120 million homes the broadcast networks access over the air for free. 

The network’s momentum kicked off earlier in the year, with February 2025 marking its highest-rated February ever at 3.1 million primetime viewers, and January setting records as well, fueled by coverage of President Trump’s second term inauguration, which drew over 10 million viewers.

What’s driving this ratings chase? Fox News has capitalized on a mix of compelling content and strategic timing. 

High-profile events like Trump’s joint address to Congress on March 4, 2025, delivered a staggering 10.7 million viewers to Fox News—outpacing ABC (6.3 million), CBS (4 million), and NBC (3.9 million), and dwarfing cable rivals CNN and MSNBC (both under 2 million). Shows like The Five (4.7 million viewers), Jesse Watters Primetime (4.2 million), and Hannity (3.6 million) have posted all-time highs, blending news with opinion in a way that resonates with a broad audience—Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike, per Nielsen MRI Fusion data. 

Fox Corporation CEO Lachlan Murdoch has leaned into this success, arguing that Fox News should be seen as “the fifth broadcast network,” a claim bolstered by its 65% share of the cable news market.  As the analyst Rich Greenfield noted, Fox News now counts Liberty Mutual, Procter & Gamble, Expedia, Nestlé, Allstate, JPMorgan Chase, Intuit, Verizon, and UBS among its more than 100-plus blue chip advertisers. 

According to The Wrap, the broadcast networks aren’t taking this lying down. An NBC source pointed out that their focus is on seven-day delayed viewing (including streaming), which significantly boosts their totals beyond live numbers—something Fox News doesn’t rely on as heavily. 

CBS, meanwhile, anticipates a ratings surge from March Madness starting the week after March 14, 2025. Still, Fox News’ live, same-day primetime edge is undeniable, especially given its smaller distribution footprint. Posts on X echo this sentiment, with users marveling at Fox News’ “staggering” numbers and its ability to outdraw free TV options, suggesting a public shift away from traditional broadcasters perceived as less trustworthy.

Gomez Urges FCC To “Pivot Away” From “Partisan Culture Wars"

At the INCOMPAS Policy Summit, FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez didn’t hold back. In a keynote fireside chat hosted by INCOMPAS—the trade group for internet and competitive networks—she outlined her policy vision while taking sharp aim at the Trump administration’s approach to broadcasters and media. Her frustration was palpable as she accused the administration of waging an “aggressive campaign” to “bring broadcasters and social media to heel.”

Gomez kicked off her remarks with a lament: “Unfortunately, this administration seems more interested in tearing things down than building anything up. I keep hoping we’ll pivot away from partisan culture wars at the FCC and refocus on our core mission.” For her, that mission centers on bolstering local journalism and supporting the pillars of media policy—diversity, localism, and competition. “In an era drowning in misinformation and disinformation, local broadcasters are more vital than ever,” she said. “But I’m worried about this push to strong-arm broadcasters and social media into submission. We should be doubling down on our foundational priorities instead.”

She urged the audience to speak out, warning that the administration’s tactics threaten not just free speech but also private companies’ autonomy over labor practices. “That’s not our role,” she insisted. “Our job is to connect everyone, everywhere.”

Among her top priorities, Gomez listed affordable broadband, wireless innovation, restoring the FCC’s spectrum auction authority, and shoring up local journalism. She also sounded the alarm on legal challenges to the Universal Service Fund, which supports telecom access in underserved areas. “These court threats are serious,” she said, pressing Congress and stakeholders to find a sustainable fix.

Gomez also cast a skeptical eye on the FCC’s rumored moves to meddle in content moderation and reinterpret Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996, which shields internet platforms from liability over user-generated content. Reports of an upcoming FCC advisory opinion on Section 230 caught her off guard: “I’m hearing about this through the media like everyone else.” If true, she argued, it’s a sign of overreach. “They’re issuing opinions because they lack authority. What worries me is this push to control speech. The Supreme Court has ruled content moderation is protected free speech. This is government bullying social media into toeing an ideological line—dangerous stuff.”

She wrapped up with a plea for focus. “This administration keeps tearing down instead of building up,” she said. “I’m still hoping we can ditch the culture wars and get back to what matters.”

L-A Radio: Bruce Scott Gets Wake-Up Duty At Go Country FM

Bruce Scott

Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters’ KKGO (Go Country 105), Los Angeles’ premier country music station, is gearing up to launch a fresh morning show, Go Country Mornings with Bruce Scott, set to debut on Monday, March 17, 2025. The announcement marks a significant addition to the station’s lineup, bringing veteran radio personality Bruce Scott to the airwaves with a promise to reinvigorate the morning drive for Southern California’s country music fans.

Bruce Scott brings over three decades of broadcasting experience to KKGO, with a career that spans some of the most notable stations in major markets. In Los Angeles, he’s best known for his tenure as the afternoon host on KOST 103.5 from 2012 to 2015, where his warm, engaging style won over listeners during the busy afternoon commute. More recently, Scott served as the morning host for KBAY in the San Jose-San Francisco Bay Area from 2017 to 2022, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and versatile talent capable of connecting with diverse audiences. His deep roots in radio, combined with a passion for country music, make him a natural fit for KKGO’s audience.

Saul Levine, President and General Manager of KKGO, expressed uncontainable enthusiasm about Scott’s arrival. “In all my years in this industry, I’ve rarely been this excited about a new talent joining our team,” Levine said. “Bruce Scott is poised to make morning drive great again at Go Country 105. We’re not just adding a host—we’re aiming to shake up Los Angeles radio with what we believe will be America’s greatest country music morning show.” Levine, a respected figure in broadcasting with a legacy of innovation, sees Scott’s addition as a bold step to elevate KKGO’s standing in the competitive L.A. market.

For Scott, the opportunity to helm mornings at KKGO feels like a dream realized. “Hosting mornings in L.A. is the stuff of my childhood fantasies,” he shared. “To do it at a station like Go Country 105, under the leadership of a radio pioneer like Saul Levine, is beyond thrilling. I’m passionate about this music, I adore this station, and I can’t wait to bring the fun to our listeners every morning.” His excitement hints at a show that will blend his seasoned on-air presence with a genuine love for country music’s storytelling and energy.

The launch of Go Country Mornings with Bruce Scott comes as KKGO continues to solidify its position as a leader in country music broadcasting in Los Angeles. Known for its mix of contemporary hits and classic tracks, the station has cultivated a loyal following since adopting the “Go Country” brand. Scott’s morning show is expected to build on that legacy, offering listeners a lively start to their day with music, personality, and a touch of West Coast flair. As of March 15, 2025, anticipation is high for what promises to be a standout addition to the station’s programming, with Scott taking the mic just two days from now.

Talk Host Don Bongino Airs Final Radio Show

Friday marked the final episode of The Dan Bongino Show on Westwood One, as host Dan Bongino concluded his tenure with the network to take on a new role as Deputy Director of the FBI. This departure signifies a major career shift for Bongino, a prominent conservative media personality, former Secret Service agent, and New York Times bestselling author, who has built a substantial following through his syndicated radio program and podcast.

Bongino’s exit from Westwood One, a division of Cumulus Media, comes after President Donald Trump announced on February 23, 2025, that he had selected Bongino for the FBI’s second-in-command position, serving under newly confirmed Director Kash Patel. 

The final broadcast capped a run that began in March 2021, when Bongino took over the coveted noon-to-3 p.m. ET slot previously held by Rush Limbaugh following Limbaugh’s death. Over the years, The Dan Bongino Show grew from 115 affiliates to over 350, becoming a powerhouse in conservative talk radio and a top-ranking podcast, often placing near the top of national charts. 

The show, known for its fiery political commentary and Bongino’s critiques of both liberal and establishment Republican rhetoric, also featured a one-hour daily podcast distributed by the Cumulus Podcast Network.

I'm not crying, you're crying!
Okay, I am crying. 😭
I think we all are.

What a bittersweet moment.

An emotional Dan Bongino salutes and sounds off on his last broadcast before switching into Deputy Director mode, which requires apolitical decorum online.

Don't worry, sir.… pic.twitter.com/7clFUc2gqf

— Krista Monroe (@MsKristaMonroe) March 14, 2025

In his farewell episode, Bongino addressed his audience with emotion, reflecting on the journey that began in a Maryland basement and grew into a multimedia phenomenon. “It’s not easy to walk away from,” he said, choking up as he thanked his listeners—whom he affectionately calls the “Bongino Army”—for their support over the years. He emphasized that the decision to leave was driven by a sense of duty rather than financial gain, noting, “Money and all that other crap? Who gives a damn about any of that stuff? We’ll figure that out later.” Bongino framed his move to the FBI as an opportunity to “actually change” the issues he’d long discussed, rather than just talk about them, a sentiment echoed in a clip he played from a 2014 Heritage Foundation speech about the need for people to step up and effect change.

The transition wasn’t abrupt. Bongino had been preparing his audience since the announcement, using his final weeks to wind down contractual obligations with advertisers and ensure a smooth handoff. He revealed plans for his media ventures to continue under a new banner, Silverloch Productions, led by his wife, Paula Bongino, who will oversee a broader stable of talent. To replace him in the 12-3 p.m. slot, Westwood One tapped Vince Coglianese, a Washington, D.C.-based host from WMAL, who will launch The Vince Show on Monday, March 17, 2025. Coglianese, a frequent guest host for Bongino, will also produce a daily podcast, Vince, in collaboration with Silverloch, maintaining continuity for Bongino’s audience.

Cumulus Media issued a statement celebrating Bongino’s contributions: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dan Bongino on his decision to take on the role of Deputy Director of the FBI. Dan has entertained and informed tens of millions of listeners every day, and we are grateful for our successful partnership. We look forward to welcoming Dan back in the future.” The company acknowledged the financial hit, estimating a $15 million revenue loss in 2025 due to his departure, underscoring his significant draw.

D-C Radio: Diane Rehm To Exit Non-Com WAMU

Diane Rehm

Diane Rehm, a towering figure in public radio, is parting ways with WAMU, Washington, D.C.’s NPR affiliate, after an extraordinary 52-year tenure. 

The announcement came this week, during a luncheon for WAMU donors, where Rehm revealed she had accepted a buyout offer from the station. Her final day will be May 2, 2025, closing a chapter that began in 1973 and cemented her as a broadcast legend.

Rehm’s journey at WAMU started humbly as a volunteer producer. By 1979, she was hosting Kaleidoscope, a weekday arts program aimed at homemakers, which she transformed in 1984 into The Diane Rehm Show. That show grew from a local call-in to a national powerhouse, syndicated by NPR, with a peak weekly audience of nearly 3 million. Known for her probing interviews and civil discourse, Rehm tackled everything from politics to literature, earning a Peabody Award and a National Humanities Medal from President Obama in 2014. Her distinctive voice—strained by spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological condition diagnosed in the late 1990s—became a hallmark of her resilience and authenticity.

She stepped away from The Diane Rehm Show in December 2016, after 37 years, motivated partly by her husband John’s slow death from Parkinson’s in 2014 and her subsequent advocacy for the right-to-die movement—a stance that occasionally clashed with NPR’s neutrality expectations. 

But Rehm didn’t leave WAMU entirely. She launched Diane Rehm: On My Mind, a twice-weekly podcast, and a monthly Diane Rehm Book Club, both produced remotely since the COVID-19 pandemic began. These kept her connected to listeners, though she remained a contractor, not a full-time employee.

The decision to leave now wasn’t entirely her own initiative. WAMU offered her a buyout in December 2024, amid a turbulent period for the station. In 2024, WAMU laid off staff, shuttered its local news site DCist, and saw morale plummet under shifting leadership—moves Rehm publicly criticized during an all-staff meeting. 

At 88, her departure marks the end of an era for WAMU.

AM Stations Are Going Silent

Cumulus Media and Townsquare Media, two major players in the U.S. radio industry, have been actively shutting down under-performing AM stations across the country, reflecting broader challenges in the terrestrial radio landscape and a strategic pivot toward more sustainable operations. This trend, reported widely in industry circles, stems from economic pressures, shifting listener habits, and the companies’ efforts to streamline their portfolios amid a rapidly evolving media environment.

Cumulus Media, headquartered in Atlanta, operates approximately 400 radio stations across 84 markets and oversees Westwood One, the nation’s largest audio network, reaching over 9,500 affiliated stations. The company has faced significant financial hurdles in recent years, including a NASDAQ delisting warning in early March 2025 due to an equity shortfall, with a compliance deadline set for April 21, 2025. 

Its latest earnings for the year ending December 31, 2024, reported a quarterly revenue of $203.6 million but a GAAP net loss of $10.32 million, highlighting ongoing profitability struggles despite digital growth. Against this backdrop, Cumulus has begun silencing under-performing AM stations to cut costs. 

Industry sources indicate that over 20 stations are slated for closure, including notable ones like WAPI-AM in Birmingham, Alabama—a historic 50,000-watt station and the second-oldest in northern Alabama, now off the air. In San Francisco, Cumulus has also pulled the plug on AM signals, with reports suggesting this is part of a broader retreat from unprofitable assets. For example, the company’s San Francisco operations are consolidating into a shared facility in Daly City with Bonneville International, signaling a reduced footprint as local programming has waned.

Townsquare Media, based in Purchase, New York, operates a smaller but still significant portfolio of around 320 stations across 67 markets, emphasizing a “digital-first” strategy. Unlike Cumulus, Townsquare has maintained a stronger financial position, with a projected 2024 revenue of $450-$452 million (down slightly from $454.23 million in 2023) and a Q4 digital revenue increase of 11%, comprising 52% of its total revenue. 

However, it too has been shedding under-performing AM stations. Examples include the shutdown of stations like WJBC-AM in Pontiac/Bloomington, Illinois, which rimshot the Bloomington market with a modest 1.1 share in Fall 2024 Nielsen ratings, and classic country simulcasts like WLAW in Whitehall/Muskegon, Michigan. Townsquare’s FCC filings cite “economic conditions in the market” as the reason for taking stations off the air temporarily, requesting special temporary authority to remain silent while hinting at potential resumption if conditions improve—though many see these closures as permanent.

Salem Media Reports Revenue Drop Of Eight Percent

Salem Media Group, Inc. Friday released its financial results for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024. The report, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, offers a comprehensive look at the company’s performance amid a shifting media landscape, highlighting both challenges and strategic successes.

For FY2024, Salem reported total net revenue of $237.56 million, an 8.1% decline from $258.65 million in 2023. This decrease was driven largely by a 5.9% drop in net broadcast revenue, which fell to $185.9 million from $197.6 million the previous year, reflecting ongoing softness in traditional radio advertising markets. However, the company saw brighter spots in its digital segment, with digital media revenue climbing 7.2% to $45 million, up from $42 million in 2023. This growth underscores Salem’s ongoing pivot toward digital platforms, including its Salem Podcast Network and Salem News Channel, as key drivers of future revenue.

On the profitability front, Salem made significant strides. The operating loss narrowed sharply to $5.46 million in 2024, a marked improvement from the $46.31 million loss recorded in 2023. This reduction was aided by cost-cutting measures and operational efficiencies. Even more notably, the company swung from a net loss of $43.31 million in 2023 to a net income of $16.18 million in 2024. A major contributor to this turnaround was a $28.66 million gain from troubled debt restructuring, which bolstered the bottom line. As a result, diluted earnings per share reached $0.58, reversing the prior year’s loss of $1.59 per share—a clear sign of financial recovery.

David Santrella, CEO of Salem Media Group, commented on the results: “2024 marked a pivotal year for Salem as we streamlined our operations and fortified our financial foundation. The tough but necessary strategic choices we made—reducing debt, enhancing our digital footprint, and optimizing our asset portfolio—are starting to pay off. We’re now on a clearer path toward sustainable profitability, better equipped to serve our audience and stakeholders in an evolving media environment.”

Plattsburgh NY Radio: Hometown WIRY Signs-Off

WIRY AM, a beloved radio station broadcasting at 1340 kHz in Plattsburgh, NY, is shutting down after 75 years of operation, marking the end of an era for the Champlain Valley’s "Hometown Radio." 

Since its inception in 1950, WIRY has been a local institution, delivering a full-service variety format that blended adult contemporary, country, and oldies music, alongside extensive local news, sports coverage, and community-focused programming.

The decision to close stems from a combination of challenges in the evolving media landscape. Station management highlighted the rise of digital platforms and social media, which have shifted how audiences consume content, leading to a decline in traditional radio listenership. 

To Our Loyal Listeners and Valued Advertisers, It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of WIRY. After serving our community for 75 years, the challenges of an evolving media landscape have made it increasingly difficult to continue operations. The rise of digital platforms and social media has changed the way audiences consume content, leading to declining traditional radio listenership. Coupled with rising music royalty costs, a shrinking media sales force, and decreasing profit margins, we have reached a point where it is no longer viable to continue broadcasting. We want to express our deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff, advertisers, and—most importantly—our listeners, who have supported us throughout the years. Your loyalty has meant the world to us, and we cherish the memories we’ve created together. Though our AM signal may soon go silent, the spirit of WIRY will live on in the music, voices, and moments we’ve shared. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives. With sincere appreciation, WIRY

The station first hit the airwaves in 1950, founded during a golden age of AM radio when families gathered around bulky sets for entertainment and news. Licensed to Plattsburgh, WIRY adopted a full-service variety format, blending adult contemporary, country, and oldies music with a strong emphasis on local content. It broadcast in C-QUAM AM stereo through a Valcom whip antenna—a rare technical choice even among its peers—serving Clinton County, parts of Essex County, northwestern Vermont, and southern Quebec. Early on, it established itself as a community hub, offering everything from nostalgic tunes to weather updates sourced from the National Weather Service.

For decades, WIRY thrived under local ownership, adapting to changing times while staying rooted in its mission. By the 1990s, it was a fixture in the North Country, known for its eclectic playlist and live local programming. In 2016, it expanded its reach by leasing FM station WPLB, rebranded as WIRY-FM, to simulcast its AM signal—though sports often stayed on AM due to affiliate preferences. This FM experiment ended in 2020 after a change in ownership.

A pivotal moment came in late 2019 when Bill Santa, the station’s long-time owner, sold WIRY to a group of local stakeholders dubbed the "Four Amigos": News Director Dave Andrews, Clinton County Sheriff David Favro, Joey Trombley of Kavanaugh Realty, and County Legislator Mark Henry. The $287,500 deal, finalized on December 27, 2019, after FCC approval, aimed to preserve the station’s legacy. 

FL Radio: Cumulus Media Shuts Down WLZR-AM

Mark Moses

For over a dozen years, Brevard County, Florida, radio fans have tuned in to enjoy the Mark Moses AShow on WLZR 1560 AM, but in recent years, his station broadened its reach to include FM-107.9. 

The media landscape has undergone dramatic shifts, and for Mark and his program, this means the end of their run. On Friday, March 14, Mark shared the news: 

"It’s with a heavy heart that I announce today marks the final broadcast of the WLZR-AM signal here in Brevard County. I learned of this decision from my employer, Cumulus Media, a few weeks back.

"I’m unsure what lies ahead for the WLZR signal, but I do know this: I lived my dream of hosting my own sports talk show on WLZR for the past decade—a goal I’ve had since high school.

Fortunately, Mark isn’t vanishing along with the radio signal. He’ll be back soon, as he explained in his announcement:

"I’m thrilled to share that, with the backing of Regional Vice President Pete DeSimone, Operations Manager Mike Tyler, and Cumulus Media, The Mark Moses Show is embracing the future.

"The show is moving fully into the digital realm as a podcast, complete with enhanced video and audio content to reach a wider audience.

"We’re building a new website and upgrading to a better studio in our facility. I’ll start broadcasting online this Monday, March 17, from my home studio and will keep you posted throughout this transition.

"I’ll also continue my roles as program director and midday host on 95.9 The Rocket—The Space Coast’s Classic Rock Station—and you can catch me weekly on Spectrum Sports 360 on News 13 in Orlando and Bay News 9 in Tampa.

Radio History: March 15

➦In 1679...Philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibniz described binary numbering. In mathematics and digital electronics, a binary number is a number expressed in the base-2 numeral system or binary numeral system, which uses only two symbols: typically "0" (zero) and "1" (one).

The base-2 numeral system is a positional notation with a radix of 2. Each digit is referred to as a bit. Because of its straightforward implementation in digital electronic circuitry using logic gates, the binary system is used by almost all modern computers and computer-based devices.

David Schoenbrun - 1950

➦In 1915...Journalist David Schoenbrun born (Died at age 73 - May 23, 1988), Schoenbrun enlisted in the Army in 1943 and became a World War 2 correspondent covering North Africa through to the liberation of France.

After the war, from 1947 to 1964, Schoenbrun worked for CBS, serving primarily as the network's bureau chief in Paris. He was one of the reporters known as Murrow's Boys.

From the 1960s through the 1980s, Schoenbrun served as a news analyst for WNEW Radio in New York (now WBBR) and other Metromedia broadcast properties, and later for crosstown WPIX Television and its Independent Network News operation. In the mid-1970s.

Schoenbrun is the author of On and Off the Air, a personal account of the history of CBS News through the 1970s.

➦In 1922...WSB-AM Atlanta signed-on.

First Employees Walter Iller, Walter Tison

The call-sign "WSB" carried an infamous history before it was assigned to a land-based broadcaster in Atlanta.

In very early days of radio licensing, sea-based broadcasters were included in the call-sign assignment system. The first licensee of the call-sign "WSB" was the S.S. Francis H. Leggett. After foundering off the Oregon coast on September 18, 1914, taking a toll of two of the 67 lives aboard, the call "WSB" was reassigned to the Firewood, the name of which forms a grim coincidence with its fate: the ship burned off the coast of Peru on December 18, 1919, with 28 persons on board, all of whom were saved.

Because superstitious seafarers objected to being issued a call "used by that ship which went down with all hands last month", "tainted" calls like "WSB" were quietly issued to unsinkable land stations.

Lambdin Kay, First GM

Originally on 740 kHz until the 1936 FCC band plan, WSB was the fourth radio station in the South, behind the first AM station, WBT 1110 AM in Charlotte, licensed in December, 1920... WNOX 990 AM in Knoxville, Tennessee licensed in November, 1921... and WWL 850 AM in New Orleans, licensed 13 days before WSB in March, 1922.

They, among others, are all considered "clear channel" stations. That designation is given to frequencies on which only one or two stations are assigned to a frequency that allows full power transmission day and night.

The WSB broadcast call sign stands for "Welcome South, Brother". Founded by the Atlanta Journal newspaper (once a competitor of the Atlanta Constitution, now merged), the station began broadcasting on March 15, 1922, just a few days prior to Constitution-owned WGM 710 AM (eventually swapped to WGST 640 AM.

➦In 1923..The U.S. Commerce Department reported that 524 radio stations were authorized to operate on the 830 kHz frequency. At the time, the Commerce Department held sole regulatory power over broadcasting, and this snapshot highlights the chaotic early days of radio. With so many stations sharing a single frequency, time-sharing arrangements were common, reflecting the medium’s rapid growth and the regulatory challenges that led to the creation of the Federal Radio Commission in 1927.

➦In 1946...In New York City, a dinner honoring Winston Churchill (right) was broadcast by major networks—ABC, CBS, NBC—and nine independent stations. The event showcased radio’s role in amplifying global figures and fostering a shared national experience. That same day, Mutual Broadcasting System revealed that 70% of its 255 affiliates were in single-station markets, underscoring radio’s penetration into small-town America and its reliance on local broadcasters. Meanwhile, Swift Packing Company signed a five-year, $5 million deal with ABC to sponsor two daily segments of Don McNeill’s Breakfast Club, a popular morning show. And the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) filed a brief with the FCC to repeal the AVCO Rule, which complicated station ownership transfers—a sign of the industry’s push for deregulation as it matured.

➦In 1947...A Pennsylvania housewife won the Truth or Consequences “Mrs. Hush” contest on NBC. Identifying silent film star Clara Bow as the mystery voice, she claimed a $17,500 prize package—the largest radio giveaway to date—after a contest that drew over a million entries and raised $400,000 for the March of Dimes. This event captures radio’s power to engage mass audiences interactively, blending entertainment with philanthropy in a way that defined its cultural dominance.

➦In 1956...Elvis Presley signed a management deal with Colonel Tom Parker.  Their partnership was uniquely successful, Elvis being an entirely new force in popular music, and Parker an entrepreneurial genius able to market him.

A carnival worker by background, Parker moved into music promotion, earning the courtesy rank of ‘Colonel’ from a grateful singer Jimmie Davis, who had become governor of Louisiana. After discovering the teenage Tommy Sands, Parker talent-spotted the unknown Elvis Presley, and skillfully maneuvered himself into position as his sole representative with control over much of his private life. Within months, he had won Presley a recording contract with the prestigious RCA Victor record label, made him a star with his first single Heartbreak Hotel, negotiated lucrative merchandising deals, made plans for TV appearances as well as a new career as an actor in film musicals.

➦In 1964... Pioneering radio deejay Alan Freed indicted by Federal Grand jury for income tax evasion. On January 23, 1986, Freed was part of the first group inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. In 1988, he was also posthumously inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame.  On December 10, 1991, Freed was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

➦In 1971...CBS announced the cancellation of The Ed Sullivan Show.

FCC's Carr Creates a Council on National Security

Brendan Carr, the Chairman of the FCC, has announced the establishment of a new Council for National Security within the agency. This move reflects Carr’s focus on strengthening the FCC’s role in addressing national security threats, particularly those emanating from foreign adversaries like the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The Council for National Security is designed to leverage the FCC’s full range of regulatory, investigatory, and enforcement powers to safeguard U.S. telecommunications infrastructure and technology ecosystem. Carr highlighted the "persistent and constant threat" from foreign actors, especially the CCP, who he says are actively seeking ways to breach U.S. networks, devices, and technologies. 

The council aims to counter these risks by focusing on:

• Telecom Supply Chain Security: Addressing vulnerabilities posed by equipment and services from entities deemed national security risks, such as Chinese telecom firms.
• Cybersecurity Threats: Responding to incidents like the Salt Typhoon hacks, a sophisticated espionage campaign linked to China that targeted U.S. telecom firms to intercept sensitive communications.
• Emerging Technology Competition: Ensuring U.S. leadership in areas like 6G, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and space technologies, where China is a significant rival.

The council will include representatives from eight FCC bureaus and offices, ensuring a broad, coordinated approach across the agency’s jurisdictions. Adam Chan, Carr’s National Security Counsel, has been appointed as the director of this new body, bringing expertise from his prior roles in national security law and policy, including work with the U.S. House Select Committee on Strategic Competition with China.

Carr’s initiative comes amid heightened concerns over Chinese influence in U.S. telecommunications. His tenure as FCC Chairman, which began in January 2025 following his appointment by President Donald Trump, has been marked by a strong stance against perceived threats from China. This includes his long-standing advocacy for banning TikTok over national security concerns and his efforts to block Chinese telecom companies like China Mobile from operating in the U.S. The recent Salt Typhoon cyberattacks, which compromised U.S. telecom networks and accessed sensitive data, likely accelerated the council’s creation.

Media Rights An Olympic Win For NBC Universal

Comcast, through its NBCUniversal division, has secured a significant deal with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to extend its media rights for broadcasting the Olympic Games in the United States through 2036. 

This agreement, valued at approximately $3 billion, was announced on March 13, 2025, and marks a continuation and expansion of Comcast’s long-standing relationship with the Olympics.

Key Details of the Deal

The deal extends Comcast’s existing media rights, which were previously set to expire after the 2032 Summer Olympics in Brisbane, Australia. It now includes the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah, and the 2036 Summer Olympics, the host city for which has not yet been determined.

Beyond simply retaining broadcast rights, the agreement elevates Comcast from a traditional media rights holder to a "strategic partner" of the IOC. This involves collaboration on various fronts, such as broadcast infrastructure, in-venue distribution of live TV coverage through Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), production support for the Olympic Video Player, and digital advertising opportunities in the U.S.

The Olympics will continue to be aired across NBCUniversal platforms, including the NBC broadcast network and the streaming service Peacock, ensuring wide accessibility for American viewers.

Cost: The $3 billion agreement reflects a modest increase from Comcast’s previous per-cycle payment of around $1.4 billion, bringing it to approximately $1.5 billion per Olympic cycle for the additional years (2033-2036). This investment underscores the value Comcast places on live sports content.

Olympic Movement Support: The IOC emphasizes that this deal contributes to the long-term financial stability of the Olympic Movement, with 90% of its revenue—amounting to millions daily—distributed to support athletes and sports organizations globally.

Live Sports Strategy: Comcast and NBCUniversal are doubling down on live sports to bolster their media portfolio, particularly to drive subscriptions to Peacock. The success of the 2024 Paris Olympics, which saw over 30 million viewers across NBC platforms and a record $1.2 billion in advertising revenue, highlights the potential of this strategy.

Historical Ties: NBC has been a key broadcaster of the Olympics since 1988 for the Summer Games and 2002 for the Winter Games. By 2036, NBCUniversal will have covered 25 Olympic Games, cementing its legacy as the primary U.S. Olympic broadcaster for nearly five decades.

IOC President Thomas Bach: Described the agreement as "groundbreaking," noting that it transcends traditional media rights deals by integrating Comcast’s innovative approach across linear TV, streaming, and digital platforms, enhancing the experience for fans and stakeholders.

Comcast CEO Brian Roberts: Emphasized the unique cultural and unifying power of the Olympics, highlighting how this partnership aligns with technological transformation and Comcast’s commitment to delivering exceptional content and support to the Olympic ecosystem.

Future Implications: The deal ensures that U.S. audiences will experience the Olympics through NBCUniversal’s lens for at least another decade, covering significant events like the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Games in Salt Lake City. The 2036 Summer Games’ host remains undecided, with speculation pointing to regions like the Middle East or India as potential candidates. 

Rachel Maddow's Rant at MSNBC Bosses Backfires

Rachel Maddow’s outburst at MSNBC executives seems to have misfired dramatically, with the network losing five million viewers in a steep 22 percent ratings drop. Since Donald Trump’s election victory, The Rachel Maddow Show has seen its audience shrink from 2.3 million to 1.8 million viewers.

The decline was even sharper among the coveted 25-54 age group, where Maddow lost 29 percent—nearly a third—of the demographic advertisers prioritize, according to Fox News Digital. In the first two months of 2025, her viewership fell by 24 percent compared to the same period last year, suggesting audiences are losing interest now that Joe Biden is out of office.

Rachel Maddow

Despite the downturn, Maddow’s show still topped its time slot last Friday and most nights last week, except for Tuesday, when President Trump’s address to Congress outperformed her. 

The ratings collapse follows Maddow’s heated on-air clash with MSNBC’s new head, Rebecca Kutler, over the removal of Joy Reid and other “non-white” primetime hosts. The $25 million-a-year anchor called the moves “disturbing,” pointing to the demotions of Katie Phang, who is Asian American, and Jonathan Capehart, who is Black. Both will stay at MSNBC but in lower-profile roles. Maddow also labeled Reid’s exit a “bad mistake,” warning that sidelining these hosts would damage the network.

Media outlet Puck noted the irony of Maddow’s critique, given her hefty salary could fund a significant expansion of MSNBC’s staff. The network is cutting 125 producers—many tied to Maddow’s show—though it plans to rehire 110 for reassignment. 

Rebecca Kutler

Typically, The Rachel Maddow Show draws about 2.1 million viewers nightly. Under a $25 million annual contract, Maddow hosts just once a week, on Mondays, after taking a $5 million pay cut from her previous $30 million salary—a sum that could cover the wages of roughly 250 production staff per episode. She’s currently committed to covering the first 100 days of Trump’s second term, set to revert to her one-night schedule in April.

Some media insiders suggest Maddow’s antics may be wearing thin with her bosses. Puck pointed out that Reid’s slot will be filled by a diverse trio—Symone Sanders, who is Black, and Alicia Menendez, who is Hispanic—yet Maddow overlooked this in her accusations of racial bias.

Puck, describes Maddow’s viewers as “elderly.” This implies the majority of her audience skews older, likely 55+ or even 65+, though no precise age breakdown is given. This older cohort appears more loyal, as the overall decline (22-24%) is less severe than the 25-54 drop (29%), suggesting younger viewers are driving the exodus. The 24 percent loss in early 2025 (relative to early 2024) reinforces a continuing downward trend, potentially tied to broader fatigue with Maddow’s style or content now that the political landscape has shifted.

CPB Sues FEMA For Freezing Authorized Funding

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which provides funding to PBS and NPR stations, sued the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency on Thursday to lift a freeze on funds meant to support the country's emergency alert system.

Reuters reports in a complaint filed in the Washington, D.C., federal court, FEMA put $38.3 million previously authorized for the alert service's Next Generation Warning System on hold without explanation last month.

The CPB said FEMA's "arbitrary and capricious" hold prevents it from seeking expense reimbursements under a $40 million grant awarded in 2022.

It said that leaves public stations around the country out of pocket for large sums, with more than $1.88 million needing to be reimbursed.

The hold "undermines the emergency alert system relied upon throughout the nation by millions of people whose only access to emergency information is through publicly-issued alerts by public broadcasting stations," the CPB said.

FEMA and the U.S. Department of Justice did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Emergency alerts can warn of bad weather such as flash floods and tornadoes, or provide alerts when children are abducted.

Congress created the CPB in 1967 to support public broadcasting. It received $535 million from the government in the latest fiscal year and distributes more than 70% to more than 1,500 local public radio and TV stations.

Some conservatives have long called to end its funding.

In a November editorial in the Wall Street Journal, Elon Musk, head of U.S. President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency, said DOGE target expenses "unauthorized by Congress or being used in ways that Congress never intended," including the $535 million CPB grant.