5/9 WAKE-UP CALL: Biden to Bibi..You're On Your Own

President Joe Biden said for the first time Wednesday he would halt some shipments of American weapons to Israel – which he acknowledged have been used to kill civilians in Gaza – if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu orders a major invasion of the city of Rafah. “Civilians have been killed in Gaza as a consequence of those bombs and other ways in which they go after population centers,” Biden told CNN’s Erin Burnett in an exclusive interview on “Erin Burnett OutFront,” referring to 2,000-pound bombs that Biden paused shipments of last week.

Biden in exclusive interview with OutFront: "I'm not supplying the weapons" if Israel goes into Rafah population centers. pic.twitter.com/RGSR13YnnF

— Erin Burnett OutFront (@OutFrontCNN) May 9, 2024

“I made it clear that if they go into Rafah – they haven’t gone in Rafah yet – if they go into Rafah, I’m not supplying the weapons that have been used historically to deal with Rafah, to deal with the cities – that deal with that problem,” Biden said.

➤BIDEN FIGHTS ECONOMIC PERCEPTIONS: Biden was speaking Wednesday in Racine, Wisconsin, where he’d just promoted new economic investments that could result in thousands of new jobs. In the CNN interview, he sought to reframe perceptions of the American economy, touting strong job growth and efforts to combat corporate greed while questioning surveys showing voters still pessimistic about the country’s direction. “We’ve already turned it around,” Biden said, responding to a question on whether, less than six months before Election Day, he was running short on time to improve his standing among Americans on his handling of the economy.

SAVAGE: CNN just aired the most brutal 2-minute takedown of Joe Biden’s Presidency during an interview with him as a reporter hurls rapid-fire reality checks to his FACE:

"Voters trust Trump more on the economy."

"Housing prices have doubled"

"Real income is down after… pic.twitter.com/OeJ4AE6BXa

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) May 8, 2024

Biden pointed to surveys showing many Americans view their own economic situation favorably, even as they look negatively on the nationwide economy. “The polling data has been wrong all along,” he said, questioning the effectiveness of phone surveys.

CNN asks Biden about his new nickname “Genocide Joe” pic.twitter.com/P9fMgfCsN9

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) May 9, 2024

FETTERMAN RIPS BIDEN: Biden must stop delaying arms sales to Israel . . . Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) stated that while President Joe Biden has been a strong supporter of Israel, the administration delaying arms sales to the country is wrong and the only conditions should be on Hamas and their enablers. "I don’t think we should be withholding any kind of munitions and I think, I said I think we need to send them immediately. Of course, Israel is in this kind of war and we — I have no conditions. I never have, and I can’t imagine I ever will,” he said.

WATCH: Fox’s @BritHume on Biden’s threat to halt weapons aid if Rafah is invaded: “Biden is trying to have it both ways” in Israel’s war with Hamas pic.twitter.com/UxSbiI83Eq

— TV News Now (@TVNewsNow) May 9, 2024

MTG FAILS:  The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday swiftly defeated an effort by firebrand Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene to remove fellow Republican Speaker Mike Johnson from his leadership role. Democrats joined Republicans in a 359-43 vote to protect Johnson's speakership, in a bid to avoid a replay of the chaos that occurred in October when Republicans ousted his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy. Greene's move represented a rare Republican defiance of presidential candidate Donald Trump, who in a social media post on Wednesday said it was "not the time" for Republicans to try to push out their own speaker.

BREAKING: Democrats joined Republicans in an overwhelming vote of 359-43 to defeat a motion by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene to remove House Speaker Mike Johnson from his leadership position. https://t.co/EOTLBIrq6a pic.twitter.com/qr9c0Dcew6

— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) May 8, 2024

"I appreciate the show of confidence from my colleagues to defeat this misguided effort," Johnson said following the vote. "Hopefully this is the end of the character assassination that has characterized the current Congress."

Earlier, standing flanked by fellow Republican Thomas Massie, Greene criticized Johnson for a string of compromises with Democrats, who hold a majority in the Senate. "Excuses like 'this is just how you have to govern in divided government' are pathetic, weak and unacceptable," Greene said of Johnson. "Even with our razor-thin Republican majority we could have at least secured the border."

Sony, Apollo Plan Paramount Break-Up

Sony Pictures Entertainment and private equity firm Apollo Global Management are planning to acquire Paramount Global for a whopping $26 billion. However, their intentions go beyond a simple acquisition. According to the New York Times, they intend to break up the company into different parts1. Here’s what we know so far:

The Breakup Plan: The CBS broadcast network, cable channels like MTV, and the Paramount Plus streaming service would be auctioned off. Paramount Pictures, known for blockbuster films like “The Godfather,” “Top Gun,” and the “Mission Impossible” franchise, would be combined with Sony’s existing business. Sony and Apollo are also likely to retain Paramount’s library of films and TV shows, along with the rights to well-known characters like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and SpongeBob SquarePants.  Interestingly, they haven’t yet shared this plan with Paramount or its advisers.

Changing of the Guard: Paramount has been under the control of the Redstone family for decades. Sumner Redstone, the media mogul, assembled the sprawling conglomerate through audacious deals. Shari Redstone, his daughter, championed a 2019 deal to reunite Paramount with CBS, and she remains Paramount’s controlling shareholder.  Sony and Apollo’s interest in acquiring Paramount represents a significant shift in the entertainment industry’s landscape.

Smartmoms Use A Number Of Smart Devices OnLine

The Edison Research Team notes we’ve turned the calendar page to May and that means it’s time for Moms and Media 2024. 

This year’s findings, pulled from Edison Research’s Infinite Dial series supported by Audacy, Cumulus Media and SiriusXM Media, continue to show U.S. Moms engaging heavily online and utilizing a variety of devices that play perfectly with the smartphone.

Smartphone ownership has reached practically full saturation among Moms (98%) but they are still acquiring new tech to get even more out of that necessary mobile device. In 2024, 47% of Moms reported owning a smartwatch compared to the 37% we saw in the 2023 report. Ownership of wireless earphones or headphones also saw an increase over last year, with 75% of Moms now owning them, up from 71%.

Smart devices, like watches and wireless earbuds, allow Moms to do even more with their smartphones, especially regarding their audio usage and consumption. 

Forty-three percent of Moms are weekly podcast listeners and additionally, 82% have listened to online audio in the last week. With wireless earphones, Moms can listen privately anywhere, which helps to create more listening opportunities.

Moms’ media habits reflect a heavy lean on the smartphone, which we have observed and tracked in our research for years. The very substantial 4 hours and 4 minutes that Moms average daily online is undoubtedly a result of having a smartphone at the ready. 

Another byproduct of smartphone ownership for Moms has been high social media consumption. This year, Edison states have 97% of Moms who currently use some type of social media, with 96% saying they have used it in the last week. Such commitment is made possible by the constant access a smartphone provides, where waiting for anything idly has been replaced with social media scrolling.

As the trends have shown, smartphones, along with all of their other tech devices, will continue to influence Moms’ media consumption and their engagement with online content.

TV Ratings: CBS Places 6 Shows In Top 10 Ranker

Continuing coverage of former President Donald Trump’s trial as well as the protests engulfing college campuses nationwide were the dominant stories of the week for the cable nets. 

As usual, Fox News led the pack during total day and primetime in both measured categories, and was also the only network not to experience any week-to-week declines. Meanwhile, MSNBC was the second most-watched cable network in total viewers, but fell to third place behind CNN in the advertiser-coveted Adults 25-54 demo.

TV Newser reports Nielsen live plus same-day data for the week of April 29 saw FNC average 2.004 million total viewers and 211,000 A25-54 viewers during primetime. Compared to the week prior the network was up in total viewers by +4% and by +9% in the demo. For total day viewing, the network averaged 1.306 million total viewers and 154,000 A25-54 viewers. That’s a gain of +3% in total viewers from the previous week, but a flat result in the demo.

Fox rose from third to second place in total primetime viewers among all basic cable networks, and remained in fifth place in the primetime demo. On the total day charts, the network retained its No. 1 position in total viewers, and remained stuck in third place in demo.

MSNBC’s primetime line-up averaged 1.195 million total viewers and 110,000 viewers in the A25-54 demo for the week. Placed alongside the previous week, that’s a tumble of -17% in both categories. MSNBC continued to rank as the No. 4 cable network in total primetime viewers, but dropped three spots to land in 18th place in the demo. During total day, it ranked behind Fox as the No. 2 network in total viewers and fell from seventh to ninth in the total day demo.

CNN’s primetime numbers averaged 594,000 in total viewers and 112,000 viewers in the A25-54 demo. That’s a total viewer drop of -23% and a demo drop of -10% compared to the previous week. CNN finished the week by falling four spots to land in ninth place in primetime with total viewers (tied with USA), while rising one spot in the demo to 17th place. For total day, the network remained static at No. 5 and No. 8 in total viewers and in the demo, respectively.

Fox had 11 out of the 15 most-watched cable news shows of the week, led by The Five (2.958 million viewers at 5 p.m. ET). MSNBC took the remaining four spots, led by Deadline: White House with Nicole Wallace at No. 7 (1.679 million viewers at 4 p.m. ET).

In the A25-54 demo, Fox News had 14 of the top 15 cable news shows with Gutfeld! topping the charts (308,000 viewers at 10 p.m. ET). MSNBC’s Deadline: White House nabbed the No. 15 spot (152,000 viewers at 4 p.m. ET).

Philly Radio: WPEN-FM Loses Two On-Air Personalities

Beasley Broadcast Group laid off 7% of its workforce this week, including two on-air personalities at Philadelphia sports talk radio station 97.5 The Fanatic (WPEN-FM).

The Philadelphia Business Journal reports Jennifer Scordo, a producer and on-air contributor to the Fanatic's afternoon drive show, and nighttime host Pat Egan are among several employees at local Beasley-owned stations impacted by the cuts. Sources said others caught up in the layoffs include two longtime producers and other behind-the-scenes staffers.

In addition, two veteran producers announced their retirements: 93.3 WMMR-FM creative director Kevin Gunn, who had been with the rock station since 1981, and Rhonda Hibbler, the Fanatic’s production director who was inducted into the Philadelphia Broadcasters Pioneers Hall of Fame last year.

Scordo has had an on-air producer role at the Fanatic during afternoon drive for three years, first succeeding Natalie Egenolf in that position with host Mike Missanelli and then continuing after Missanelli’s 2022 departure as part of what the station dubbed "The Greatest Show Ever?" with co-hosts Tyrone Johnson, Ricky Bottalico and Hunter Brody. She could be seen weekdays on a simulcast of the program that airs on NBC Sports Philadelphia.

Prior to joining The Fanatic, Scordo spent six years working on air for two other local Beasley stations — country station 92.5 WXTU-FM and classic rock station 102.9 WMGK-FM.

NY Times Posts Upbeat Results

New York Times beat estimates for first-quarter revenue and profit on Wednesday, as its bundled content offering attracted more subscribers to its website and app ahead of major sports events and the 2024 U.S. presidential elections.

Reuters reports the publisher of the New York Times newspaper has focused more on bundling its core news with other content ranging from podcasts to cooking recipes and games to attract readers and drive revenue growth.

The company reported revenue of $594 million, compared with analysts' estimates of $591.9 million, according to LSEG data. On an adjusted basis, it earned 31 cents per share, compared with the estimates of 20 cents.

Subscription revenue rose nearly 8% to $429 million, while revenue from digital-only products rose more than 13% on higher demand for its bundled and multiproduct offerings.

The company, however, added 210,000 digital-only subscribers in the first quarter, compared with 300,000 in the preceding three months.

Total advertising revenue for the quarter fell 2.4% to $103.7 million, despite a near 3% rise in digital ad sales, its biggest revenue generator.

Its sports-focused Athletic publication, however, reported a 33% jump in total revenue and an 18% rise in subscription revenue ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Marketers are moving away from print and towards digital and sports advertising to capture a younger and larger audience. New York Times reported a drop of about 10% in print advertising revenue and a 2% drop in subscription revenue for the business.

News Corp Misses Quarterly Revenue Estimates

 

Media conglomerate News Corp on Wednesday missed Wall Street estimates for third-quarter revenue, weighed down by a sluggish advertising market and lower physical book sales at its book publishing business.

Inflation and higher interest rates have impacted News Corp's businesses and dented its advertising sales, reports Reuters.

The company's News Media segment, which includes the New York Post, The Times, the Sunday Times, among others, came under pressure as marketers kept a tight leash on ad budgets in an uncertain economy.

News Corp, a part of media baron Rupert Murdoch's empire, said it has been reviewing the company's structure and that the "work is intense and ongoing."trading after the bell.

Revenue fell 1% to $2.42 billion in the quarter ended March 31, below estimates of $2.46 billion, according to Visible Alpha.

Revenue at the Dow Jones business grew 3% to $544 million, while revenue at its Digital Real Estate Services unit rose 7%, driven by strong performance at REA Group (REA.AX), opens new tab, which operates residential and commercial property websites in Australia.

The company's revenue at its book publishing segment fell 2% to $506 million.

Disney's TV Business Continues to Decline

Walt Disney's surprise profit in its streaming entertainment division was eclipsed by a drop in its traditional TV business and weaker box office, sending its stock tumbling 10%, on track for its deepest one-day drop in 17 months, Reuters reports.

Like other media companies, Disney has been trying to adapt to consumer migration from cable television to streaming entertainment, and had promised Wall Street that its streaming operation would become profitable by September.

The division has been losing money since Disney+ debuted in 2019 in a major push by the company to compete with Netflix.

However, revenue from the traditional television business declined 8% to $2.77 billion and operating profit fell 22% from a year ago.

That decline reflected lower ad revenue and the impact of Disney's new TV distribution deal with Charter Communications as the second-largest cable TV and broadband company dropped eight of Disney's cable networks.

Mike Eaby Named VP/EP Of Westwood One Sports

Cumulus Media has announced Mike Eaby’s promotion to Vice President/Executive Producer of Westwood One Sports. In his new role, Eaby will manage and oversee all Westwood One Sports multi-platform content and live event production. Eaby will assume his new responsibilities on May 15, reporting to Bruce Gilbert, Senior Vice President, Sports Content & Audience for Cumulus Media and Westwood One. 

He succeeds Howard Deneroff, who departs his position after more than 35 years with Westwood One Sports.

Pittsburgh Radio: KDKA AM/FM, MLB Pirates Extend Broadcast Deal

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Audacy Pittsburgh announced Wednesday the two parties have agreed to radio broadcast contract extension that will ensure 93.7 The Fan (KDKA-FM) will continue as the Pirates flagship radio station through the 2027 season. 

Audacy Pittsburgh will also continue to leverage the Pirates brand and game programming on its sister station KDKA News Radio (KDKA-AM) which is simulcast on 100.1 FM and 1020 AM, including the airing of all Pirates weekday afternoon games. 

“In Pittsburgh, there aren’t many traditions more engrained in our community than the Pirates on The Fan and KDKA,” said Michael Spacciapolli, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Pittsburgh. “We are honored to continue to tell the story of this team for many many years to come as they chase another World Series title for our city.”

“Our relationship with KDKA is like no other in sports,” said Travis Williams, Pittsburgh Pirates President. “Starting with the first baseball game to ever be broadcast, KDKA and the Pirates have been synonymous with each other.  We are thrilled that tradition will continue and be expanded upon across the cluster of Audacy Pittsburgh stations.”  

Catholic Broadcasters Have A Beef With FCC

A trio of Catholic radio networks has filed a petition against the FCC over new requirements that will soon mandate that all U.S. radio and television stations publish information about the race and gender of their employees, according to the Catholic News Agency.

In a 3-2 ruling in February, the commissioners of the FCC reinstated a requirement that radio stations must annually file a document, known as Form 395-B, that lists the race and gender of their employees.

Broadcasters are required to maintain a summary of publicly accessible information known as a public file, with varying requirements among the types of stations regarding what must be contained in the file.

The FCC had not required Form 395-B since 2004, following a 2001 ruling by the ​​U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

In an April 29 complaint filed with the FCC, three Catholic broadcasters — Ave Maria Radio, Armor of God Catholic Radio, and La Promesa Foundation — argued that the new regulations would “adversely affect them as well as all religious broadcasters generally.” 

The FCC in its February ruling introduced a mandate that stations must make the 395-B forms public, because “doing so will ensure maximum accuracy of the submitted data, is consistent with Congress’ goal to maximize the utility of the data an agency collects for the benefit of the public, allows us to produce the most useful reports possible for the benefit of Congress and the public, and allows for third-party testing of the accuracy of our data analyses.”

In their joint complaint, the radio stations argue that the new rule “would advance the interests of the LGBTQ lobby and would chill the religious freedoms … enshrined in the First Amendment of the federal Constitution.”

Mike Jones, vice president and general manager at Ave Maria Radio, called the FCC’s action “pernicious” and said that their attorney offered to file a complaint with the FCC on their behalf and on behalf of the other stations. 

The radio stations’ complaint also argues that the U.S. Supreme Court is expected to soon rule on two cases that could limit the FCC’s ability to make decisions, giving that power instead to Congress.

Bias Claims At NPR Discussed At Congressional Hearing

A hearing was held on Capitol Hill Wednesday to address accusations of ideological bias at NPR while considering its taxpayer-funded status. The discussion revolves around transparency, viewpoint discrimination, and the responsibility of publicly funded news organizations.

House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) delivered opening remarks during the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee hearing titled “Examining Accusations of Ideological Bias at NPR, a Taxpayer Funded News Entity”1. Here are the key points she raised:

First Amendment and Freedom of the Press: Chair Rodgers emphasized her support for the First Amendment and the freedom of the press. She quoted Thomas Jefferson, stating that our liberty depends on the freedom of the press. Every news outlet should be free to express viewpoints, even those she may disagree with.

Public Funding and Viewpoint Censorship: Rodgers expressed concern about NPR, a taxpayer-funded news organization, allegedly censoring viewpoints. She highlighted accusations from within NPR’s DC bureau regarding viewpoint discrimination.

Why should American tax dollars go to an institution like NPR that has consistently failed to be fair and engages in viewpoint discrimination? pic.twitter.com/SmQ4Wo0pkm

— CathyMcMorrisRodgers (@cathymcmorris) May 8, 2024

Despite receiving public funding, NPR reportedly mocked, ridiculed, and attacked taxpayers who fund the organization.

Uri Berliner’s Op-Ed: Uri Berliner, a 25-year veteran of NPR’s national news desk, wrote an op-ed describing a troubling culture within NPR. Berliner stated that an open-minded spirit no longer exists at NPR, leading to an audience that doesn’t reflect America. He criticized NPR for not admitting its reporting errors, particularly regarding the debunked Russia collusion story.

Avoiding Stories That Could Help President Trump: Berliner revealed that NPR did not want to report stories that could benefit President Trump’s chances in the 2020 Presidential Election. Even if these stories were true and important, NPR allegedly avoided them.

Radio History: May 9

➦In 1914...Clarence Eugene "Hank" Snow was born (Died at age 85 from heart failure – December 20, 1999). In a career that spanned more than 50 years, he recorded 140 albums and charted more than 85 singles on the Billboard country charts from 1950 until 1980. His number-one hits include the self-penned songs "I'm Moving On", "The Golden Rocket" and The Rhumba Boogie and famous versions of "I Don't Hurt Anymore", "Let Me Go, Lover!", "I've Been Everywhere", "Hello Love", as well as other top 10 hits.

Snow was an accomplished songwriter whose clear, baritone voice expressed a wide range of emotions including the joys of freedom and travel as well as the anguish of tortured love. His music was rooted in his beginnings in small-town Nova Scotia where, as a frail, 80-pound youngster, he endured extreme poverty, beatings and psychological abuse as well as physically punishing labour during the Great Depression. Through it all, his musically talented mother provided the emotional support he needed to pursue his dream of becoming a famous entertainer like his idol, the country star, Jimmie Rodgers.

Hank Snow

As a performer of traditional country music, Snow won numerous awards and is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

In March 1933, Snow wrote to Halifax radio station CHNS asking for an audition. The rejection letter he received only made him more determined and later that year he visited the station, was given an audition and hired to do a Saturday evening show that was advertised as "Clarence Snow and his Guitar."  Snow's audition with the Canadian division of RCA Victor in Montreal, Quebec, on October 29, 1936 led to the release of his first record with "The Prisoned Cowboy" coupled with "Lonesome Blue Yodel".[2] He signed with RCA Victor, recording for the label until 1981. A weekly CBC radio show brought him national recognition and, he began touring Canada until the late 1940s when American country music stations began playing his records.

Snow moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1949, and "Hank Snow, the Singing Ranger" (modified from his earlier nickname, the Yodeling Ranger), began recording for RCA Victor in the United States in 1949.

A regular at the Grand Ole Opry, in 1954 Snow persuaded the directors to allow a young Elvis Presley to appear on stage. Snow used Presley as his opening act and introduced him to Colonel Tom Parker. In August 1955, Snow and Parker formed the management team, Hank Snow Attractions. This partnership signed a management contract with Presley but before long, Snow was out and Parker had full control over the rock singer's career. Forty years after leaving Parker, Snow stated, "I have worked with several managers over the years and have had respect for them all except one. Tom Parker was the most egotistical, obnoxious human being I've ever had dealings with."

Alan Freed

➦In 1929...WJW-AM, Cleveland, Ohio signed-on.

The station was a staple of the Cleveland airwaves for more than 40 years under its original call letters of WJW.

The station was started in Mansfield, OH as WLBV sin 1926 under the ownership of John Weimer.  The call letters became WJW in 1928, reflecting his initials. He sold it in 1931 to Mansfield Broadcasting Association.

WJW moved to Akron in 1932.  William O’Neill purchased the station in 1943 and moved it to Cleveland.  The station moved from 1210 kHz to 850 kHz and increased its power to 5,000 watts.

During its history, WJW aired Alan Freed's "Moondog" rock'n'roll show.

O'Neil sold WJW on 17 Nov. 1954 to Storer Broadcasting, which teamed it with its local television operation, WXEL.  Storer dropped the ABC radio affiliation in 1957 to become independent, although the station later had a brief affiliation with NBC before becoming independent again.

During the 1960s the "Ed Fisher Show" was immensely popular during a 10-year run, as was the station's adult contemporary format of news, talk, and jazz. Sold to Erie Broadcasting in the fall of 1976, WJW began to highlight talk shows and adult popular music. It had begun separate FM programming in 1965 on a station that eventually passed into separate ownership as WGCL.

WJW was sold 1986 to Booth American Broadcasting, at which time it exchanged its long-familiar call letters for WRMR. In 1990 Booth sold the station to Independent Group Ltd., a local group that owned WDOK.

Today, the station's call sign is WKNR 850 AM and airs sportstalk. The station now has 50Kw-Day, 5Kw-Night.

➦In 1932...WFLA/WSUN, Clearwater, FL, tested first directional AM antenna.

Despite Revenue Decline During 3Q, Fox Shows Profit

 

Fox Corporation managed to swing to a profit in its fiscal third quarter, even though it faced challenges due to a slump in advertising revenue. The owner of Fox News Channel and the Fox broadcasting network said overall revenue fell to about $3.45 billion, compared to approximately $4.08 billion in the year-earlier period.

Here are the key points:

Revenue Comparison: Overall revenue fell to approximately $3.45 billion, compared to around $4.08 billion in the same period last year. The decline was partly due to the absence of last year’s Super Bowl broadcast.

Legal Setback and Boost in Affiliate Fees: Fox benefited from the lack of charges associated with a massive legal setback tied to Fox News Channel. Additionally, affiliate fees provided a boost.

Dominion Voting Systems Settlement:  In the previous quarter, Fox faced a significant loss of over $50 million due to a settlement of more than $787 million with Dominion Voting Systems. This settlement wiped out profit but did not recur in the current quarter.

Profit and Adjusted Earnings: Fox swung to a profit of $704 million in the most recent quarter. Adjusted earnings per share came to $1.09.

Advertising Revenue Decline: Ad revenue fell year over year due to the absence of the Super Bowl. Advertising revenues slipped to $939 million, compared with $1.56 billion reported in the year-earlier period.

NPR CEO Katherine Maher Ghosting House Hearing

National Public Radio (NPR) Chief Katherine Maher has declined an invitation to appear before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce amid a bias scandal. 

A spokesperson for NPR confirmed to Fox News Digital that Maher would not be appearing as requested before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, citing an all-day meeting with the organization's board of directors. 

Here are the key details:

Invitation Declined: Maher will not abide by the committee’s request to appear on Wednesday. NPR confirmed that Maher cited an all-day meeting with the organization’s board of directors as the reason for her absence12.

Board Meeting Importance: The board of directors meeting was previously scheduled and publicly posted. Maher, who has been CEO for only six weeks, considers this meeting crucial for reviewing challenges and opportunities facing NPR1.

Written Testimony: Although Maher won’t appear in person, she will provide written testimony to the committee1.

Committee Concerns: The House Energy & Commerce Committee is probing NPR and its leadership. Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers expressed concerns about NPR’s direction under past and present leadership1.

Republican Scrutiny: Republicans have scrutinized NPR following a scathing essay by a former senior editor. Maher has defended herself, arguing that critics took her past statements out of context.

Beasley Reports Revenue Dropped 5.9 Percent During 1Q

Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. today announced operating results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024.

Net revenue during the three months ended March 31, 2024 decreased 5.9% to $54.4 million, primarily reflecting a year-over-year decline in audio advertising and other revenue due to Beasley’s Wilmington station and esports divestitures as well as ongoing softness in the commercial advertising business, partially offset by growth in digital and political advertising revenue.

Beasley reported an operating loss of $1.1 million in the first quarter of 2024 compared to operating income of $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2023, largely reflecting the year-over-year decrease in net revenue.

Beasley reported net income of approximately $8,000, or $0.00 per diluted share, in the three months ended March 31, 2024, compared to a net loss of $3.5 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, in the three months ended March 31, 2023. The year-over-year improvement was primarily due to the $6.0 million gain on sale of an investment in Broadcast Music, Inc. holdings and lower interest expense.

Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP financial measure) was $0.7 million in the first quarter of 2024 compared to $2.6 million in the first quarter of 2023. The year-over-year decrease is primarily attributable to lower net revenue compared to the prior year period.

Caroline Beasley

Commenting on the financial results, Caroline Beasley, Chief Executive Officer, said, “Beasley continues to advance our core initiatives, which are focused on driving revenue and cash flow, including our digital transformation, revenue diversification and expense management initiatives. We expect digital to account for between 20% and 25% of total revenue in 2024, driven by the ongoing growth and success of our premium content creation and digital services. On the new business front, our dedicated sales teams are leveraging the tremendous audience reach and engagement of our platform to attract new advertisers.

“In summary, Beasley’s underlying fundamentals—mainly, our local audio and digital platforms and audience engagement—remain strong. We are proud of our teams’ steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional content and services to our listeners, advertisers, online users and sports fans, and remain confident that the actions we are taking to transform our company and strengthen our balance sheet, are laying the foundation for future growth and success.”

First Quarter 2024 Highlights

• Revenue from new customers grew 53% year over year
• Generated $548,000 in political revenue
• Local revenue, including digital packages sold locally, accounted for 69% of Total Revenue
• Digital revenue grew 10% year-over-year, or 20% year-over-year on a same station basis, to $11,000,000
• Digital revenue accounted for 20% of total company revenue
• 38% of our total audience listens via the company’s digital platforms

The Media Layoffs Just Won't Stop

In Boston...The Herald reports Country WKLB 102.5 DJ Jackson Blue, who has been a longtime staple on Boston radio stations, announced he was being let go by Beasley Media Group amid a rash of layoffs on Tuesday.

“So what’s going on? I just got fired,” Blue said in a social media video to his listeners. “People always told me forever: You’ve never made it in radio until you get fired for the first time — which means I finally have made it, you know, after being in Boston radio for 20-something years,” he said.

Jaybeau Jones

105.7 WROR’s Jaybeau Jones also announced that he was one of the Beasley employees being laid off. “It’s one of those hard days in radio where we are seeing friends let go. Well, today I am one of those friends,” Jones posted on social media. “After a wonderful 10 year run at WROR in Boston, ranking #2 adults I was part of the 7% and let go.

“I am happy to say I won’t be far away as you can hear me tonight and every night on SiriusXM 70s on 7,” he wrote, adding, “I will be looking for another fun opportunity to complement 70’s on 7.”

Beasley Media Group is cutting 7% of its workforce across the entire company. “We are realigning our core business operations to reflect the current economic conditions in order to best serve the needs of our valued audiences, advertisers, and shareholders into the future,” the company said in a statement on Tuesday.

Blue spent almost a decade hosting nights at KISS 108 before making the jump to HOT 96.9, where he did afternoons for a couple of years. Blue in his video announcing the layoff said he would make another video thanking everybody he worked with. “There are so many people I love, and that’s what might make me cry right now,” he added as he started to tear up.

Blue said he does not have a job lined up after his sudden departure from Beasley.

These layoffs at Beasley Media Group come after Audacy recently emerged from bankruptcy. Then the radio conglomerate announced “difficult but necessary” cuts. That included WEEI Patriots reporter Mike Kadlick being laid off by the company right before the NFL Draft. Then last week, WBZ NewsRadio 1030’s Kim Tunnicliffe said she was let go from the iHeartMedia station. WBUR recently announced that Boston’s NPR station is laying off seven employees and 24 others are taking buyouts. The layoffs and buyouts come weeks after the station on Commonwealth Avenue warned of possible job cuts.

In Philadelphia, both the Inquirer and Beasley Media had layoffs on Tuesday.

The News Guild of Greater Philadelphia said it was 'disgusted and enraged' after the Philadelphia Inquirer on Tuesday laid off five unionized employees just months after 32 others accepted a buyout package to avoid a similar fate.

The Phill Business Journal reports Diane Mastrull, a longtime Inquirer reporter and editor who is president of Local 38010 of the Communications Workers of America, informed members of the layoffs on Tuesday, noting in a memo that the cuts come less than a week after the newspaper announced a desire to have employees work more days in the office in the spirit of “collaboration, inclusion, and sense of urgency about our work.”

She said the five affected Guild members include four newsroom employees — two photographers, a photo editor and a sportswriter. The fifth is in the Inquirer's customer support center.

 The Beasley Media cuts went deeper, and included the departure of The Best Show Ever? co-host and producer Jen Scordo. Scordo was a WXTU anchor before sliding over to 97.5 when Natalie Egenolf left. 

Another on-air Fanatic host, who has not publicly announced the news, was let go later in the day. 

In addition, a number of longtime producers and behind the scenes folks were also laid off, part of a company-wide initiative to reduce the work force by 7%. 

Sources told Crossing Broad the Philly cuts included on air, sales, marketing, and production employees spanning the entirety of the cluster, which includes the Fanatic, 93.3 WMMR, 102.9 WMGK, WXTU, and 95.7 BEN FM. This follows a 24-month period that saw Beasley let go of Jamie Lynch, Hunter Brody, Paul Jaxon, Charlie Maxx, Eric Camille, and other behind-the-scenes employees.

Fox News Channel Continues To Lead CableTV

During the week of April 29 - May 5, FOX News Channel (FNC) continued to lead cable news across all categories, while seeing week-over-week increases across primetime and total day. 

Additionally, FNC led all of cable with total day viewers for the 17th consecutive week and surpassed ESPN with primetime viewers. 

In primetime (8-11 PM/ET), FNC earned 2 million viewers and 211,000 A25-54, commanding all of cable news in all categories. In total day (6 AM-6 AM/ET), FNC posted 1.3 million viewers and 154,000 in the 25-54 demo, outpacing all of cable with viewers. 

Notably, the network posted 80 of the top 100 cable news telecasts for the week. Compared to the prior week, FNC was up 4% with both total day viewers and primetime viewers, while CNN was down 14% in total day and 23% in primetime and MSNBC was down 13% in total day and 17% in primetime. 

Additionally, FNC led CNN and MSNBC combined with primetime viewership. The Five averaged 3 million viewers and 282,000 in the 25-54 demo, making it the most-watched show in cable news. At 6 PM/ET, Special Report with Bret Baier drew 2 million viewers and 199,000 in the 25-54 demo. The Ingraham Angle at 7 PM/ET scored 2.1 million viewers and 221,000 in the 25-54 demo. At 8 PM/ET, Jesse Watters Primetime was the most-watched primetime program in cable news, delivering 2.7 million viewers and 259,000 in the 25-54 demo. At 9 PM/ET, Hannity posted 2.5 million viewers and 286,000 with A25-54. At 11 PM/ET, FOX News @ Night secured 1.2 million viewers and 192,000 in the 25-54 demo.

At 10 PM/ET, FNC’s late-night offering Gutfeld! averaged 2,236,000 viewers and 308,000 in the 25-54 demo, making it the most-watched cable news program in the younger demo. Gutfeld! topped all of the broadcast competition with viewers outpacing CBS’ The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (1,966,000 P2+), ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! (1,491,000 P2+) and NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon (1,302,000 P2+).

ABC's GMA Ranks No. One In Total Viewers

“Good Morning America” ranked No. 1 in Total Viewers (2.788 million) for the week of April 29, 2024, based on Live + Same Day Data from Nielsen Media Research.

“GMA” (2.788 million, 493,000 and 327,000, respectively) beat “CBS Mornings” (2.168 million, 424,000 and 296,000, respectively) across the board: Total Viewers (+620,000), Adults 25-54 (+69,000) and Adults 18-49 (+31,000). “GMA” led “CBS Mornings” in Total Viewers and Adults 25-54 in all 32 weeks of the season and for the last 1,320 weeks overall — since w/o 1/18/99.

Season to date, “GMA” (2.930 million) is ranking as the No. 1 morning newscast in Total Viewers for the 12th straight year — since the 2012-2013 season. “GMA” is leading NBC’s “Today” (2.794 million) by 136,000 and “CBS Mornings” (2.235 million) by 695,000.

Emmy® Award-winning “GMA,” featuring the anchor team of Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos, Michael Strahan and chief meteorologist Ginger Zee, airs live Monday-Friday (7:00-9:00 a.m. EDT) on ABC. Simone Swink is the executive producer.

Source: The Nielsen Company, NTI Total Viewers, Adults 25-54 and Adults 18-49 Live + SD Current Week (w/o 4/29/24), Previous Week (w/o 4/22/24) and Year-Ago Week (w/o 4/24/23). Most Current Data Stream: 2023-2024 Season (9/25/23–5/5/24) and 2022-2023 Season (9/19/22–4/30/23). Beginning 8/31/20, national ratings also include Out of Home (OOH) viewing. Averages based on regular telecasts.

ESPN Has Record-Setting Prime Time Audience

April was a record-setting month for ESPN, as the network delivered its best April prime time audience on record, dating back more than 30 years. ESPN averaged 2.1 million viewers each night (8 – 11 p.m. ET), up 42% from the same month in 2023 and topping every April dating back to at least 1992. Narrowing in on P18-49 demo, ESPN was up 33% year-over-year.

In the same month, ESPN’s total day audience was its highest in 12 years, dating back to 2012, as ESPN averaged 781,000 viewers in any given hour. The impressive figure was up 23%. In the same Persons 18-49 demo, ESPN for the month was up 11%.

During its record-setting month, ESPN led the industry in sports viewing, more than doubling the percentage of the second-place network.

“April’s record viewership speaks to the power of premier content and fierce competition,” said Rosalyn Durant, ESPN Executive Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions “From the ceiling-shattering NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament to the NFL and WNBA Drafts, the NBA and NHL playoffs, and the MLB regular season, April was a sports fan’s dream.  The momentum continues in May, as we bring fans another month of must-see programming.”

ESPN’s strong April follows March, where the network was up year-over-year in primetime and total day. ESPN Digital was also No. 1 in the sports category for the 25th straight month.

Seattle Radio: Layoffs Force Line-Up Changes At KIRO, KTTH

Bonneville Seattle's KIRO Newsradio and AM 770 KTTH are adjusting their lineups following recent layoffs. Several reports indicate at least seven people have been laid off by the stations' owner, Bonneville International.

A notable change includes Shari Elliker's exit from KIRO's afternoon slot and Bryan Suits' departure from KTTH's morning show.

What are the changes at KIRO Radio?

At KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM:  afternoon co-host Shari Elliker departed as afternoon co-host alongside John Curley. Elliker, who brought her expertise to KIRO in December 2021, boasts an illustrious career, including stints as a traffic reporter and host in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., on several radio and TV stations. Curley addressed the changes on the radio show Tuesday.

Taking her place will be Jake Skorheim, who moves from the nighttime slot to join Curley in the afternoons. The night show is being removed altogether and replaced with CBS’ John Batchelor Show, according to several media reports.

What are the changes at 770 KTTH? Over at Conservative Talk 770 KTTH, morning host Bryan Suits departs. Suits, a familiar voice in Seattle radio, previously held positions at 710 KIRO and 570 KVI before returning to KTTH in 2022.

The morning show is being replaced by the syndicated Armstrong & Getty show in the 6-9 a.m. timeslot.

Additionally, the cluster bids farewell to traffic reporter Nate Connors, who brought two decades of experience to KIRO. Connors' departure marks the end of an era for the Classic Rock 102.5 KZOK alum, who made his mark both as a host and producer.'

Just a week ago, KUOW announced $2 million in cuts, including laying off eight staffers and ending its RadioActive youth program, reports Fox 13.

Christian Radio Sues Over Disparity in Streaming Costs

The website for 99.1 KLJY JOY FM in St. Louis features a scrolling playlist of its lineup of Christian pop music and a “listen now” button to tune in to the simulcast broadcast. But visitors may find that after a few hours of streaming artists like Lauren Daigle and Brandon Lake, the site may kick listeners  off.

Because of higher royalty costs, many noncommercial religious broadcasters are choosing to either limit the number of online listeners they allow at a time or simply not promote their online platforms at all. A new lawsuit from some of these broadcasters, including many Christian stations, claims that their royalty rate, which exceeds what other stations pay, is effectively a form of religious discrimination.

“The government is charging religious broadcasters a significantly higher rate,” said Rory Gray, with the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). “It suppresses religious speech in the public sphere.”

5/8 WAKE-UP CALL: Porn Star Testifies In Trump Trial

Porn star Stormy Daniels took the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's hush money trial and her testimony did not disappoint those who anticipated juicy revelations. Trump is on trial for 34 counts of falsifying business records. Prosecutors allege Trump covered up reimbursements paid to his former lawyer Michael Cohen, who was convicted of violating campaign finance law when paying Daniels $130,000 in 2016 to stay quiet about their 2006 alleged sexual encounter. While Trump has denied the allegation, Daniels' testimony about the July 2006 night provided plenty of details.

Stormy Daniels took the stand in Donald Trump's hush money trial, delivering a graphic testimony about her alleged sexual encounter with Trump. The judge also denied the defense's request for a mistrial. @AaronKatersky reports. https://t.co/XOBNP2RfOA pic.twitter.com/Hy2JghESnN

— World News Tonight (@ABCWorldNews) May 8, 2024

Judge Juan Merchan appeared upset that her testimony contained so much arguably irrelevant information, sustaining many of Trump lawyer Susan Necheles' frequent objections. The sexual encounter is at the heart of the case over whether the former president falsified business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to buy the adult-film star’s silence on the eve of the 2016 election. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee has denied the affair and any wrongdoing. He has said the office of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, a Democrat, charged him out of political spite. The trial was expected to resume Thursday with cross-examination of Daniels continuing.

➤ANOTHER TRIAL PP: A federal judge postponed indefinitely Tuesday the trial of former President Donald Trump on charges he hoarded classified documents after leaving the White House. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon ruled that finalizing a trial date without first resolving disputes about classified documents “would be imprudent and inconsistent” with preparations to present the case to a jury. Cannon had tentatively scheduled the trial to start May 20 but removed that date without setting a new one. She said she would set a new date that takes into account Trump’s right to a fair trial and the public’s right to the fair and efficient administration of justice. Deadlines for written arguments over the classified documents now run to July 22, pushing any trial off for months.

Israeli tanks moved across Gaza's southern border, seizing control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing on Egypt's border. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the latest cease-fire proposal amid increasing pressure from families of hostages for a deal. pic.twitter.com/et8PbaEnFR

— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) May 7, 2024

➤ISRAEL CONTROLS GAZA BORDER CROSSING:  Israeli forces took control of a key Gaza border crossing as cease-fire talks intensified. The operation at the Rafah entry point to Egypt followed Israeli warnings to civilians to evacuate and airstrikes against Hamas targets. 

Despite Pres. Biden pressuring Israel to hold off on a full-scale invasion, Israel has seized control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing. @marcusmoore reports on the Biden administration delaying shipments of ammunition to Israel. https://t.co/c1tESittqG pic.twitter.com/FWtuaX9rbH

— World News Tonight (@ABCWorldNews) May 8, 2024

More than one million people are sheltering in the southern Gaza city. Truce negotiations resumed in Cairo the day after Hamas reported agreeing to a pact that included the militant group exchanging hostages it abducted on Oct. 7 for Palestinian prisoners in Israel. But it added conditions that Israel hadn’t approved, such as Israel completely withdrawing from Gaza and ending the blockade on the enclave. The U.S.-designated terrorist organization offered amendments to yesterday’s proposal, American officials said. The Rafah campaign is widening the rift between Israel and the U.S.

Hamas is convinced they've won the 'PR war': Sen. John Fetterman https://t.co/YuRPX3pCIF #FoxNews

— Tom Benson (@Tombenson1) May 8, 2024

➤TIK TOK SUES U-S: TikTok sued the U.S. government over the constitutionality of a new law that forces a sale or ban of the social-media app. The suit seeks a court order preventing enforcement of the bipartisan measure that requires parent ByteDance to offload TikTok by mid-January. TikTok alleges that the law violates the platform’s and 170 million U.S. users’ right to free speech. Beijing-based ByteDance has said that it can’t and won’t sell its U.S. operations by the deadline. The law was borne of national security concerns because of the app’s Chinese ownership. TikTok says it has taken measures to safeguard user data and prevent Chinese government influence. The U.S. has long restricted foreign ownership of radio and television broadcasting.

➤UKRAINE CLAIMS Z PLOT FOILED: Ukraine said that it foiled a Russian plot to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelensky. The plan for what it said was Moscow’s latest attempt to kill Zelensky involved hitting his convoy with missiles and drones. Two of five agents involved were under the direction of Russia’s Federal Security Service, according to the Ukrainian Security Service. The Kremlin didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. With Moscow’s troops gaining ground in the east, Kyiv continues to recruit replacements for its depleted troops while awaiting new shipments of weaponry from the U.S. Next door, Vladimir Putin was inaugurated as Russia’s president for another six-year term.

Audacy Responds To Conservative Watchdog's Objection

 Audacy, undergoing Chapter 11 financial reorganization, is facing a challenge related to its change of ownership. Here are the key details:

Ownership Change and George Soros: Audacy seeks to alter its ownership structure, allowing liberal billionaire investor George Soros to acquire a stake in the company. The proposed change has drawn attention due to its implications.

Conservative Group’s Petition: The Media Research Center (MRC), led by Brent Bozell, filed a formal petition to the FCC. MRC objects to what it calls a “Soros shortcut” in the foreign ownership portion of the deal. Audacy’s restructuring plan allows completion while maintaining short-term compliance with foreign ownership limits until FCC approval for indirect foreign ownership of over 25% is secured. Bozell argues that this interim step lacks assurances against impermissible “control or influence” by foreign owners over radio stations.

Audacy’s Response:  Audacy dismisses MRC’s objection as “ill-informed” and an attempt to impede its reorganization. The company points out procedural flaws in Bozell’s petition: MRC failed to serve the petition on Audacy. The petition lacks specific allegations of injury or reasons why the application wouldn’t be in the public interest.

Audacy emphasizes that its prompt emergence from bankruptcy is crucial for station operation and competitiveness. The use of waivers aligns with precedent, and the FCC’s approval process addresses foreign ownership concerns.

Congressional Attention: Representative Chip Roy (R-TX) also raised concerns about Soros’ involvement in the reorganization. Roy urged a thorough review of the deal’s implications before approval.

Birmingham Radio: WZZK Taps Mike Sanders As PD

Mike Sanders has taken on the role of Program Director (PD) at Country 104.7 WZZK in Birmingham, Alabama. Let’s dive into the details:

Mike Sanders, also known as “Sandman”, is a seasoned radio professional with over 30 years of experience. He was previously associated with Midwest Communications’ WJXA (Mix 92.9) in Nashville, where he spent nearly five years as an air personality and talent coach.

Mike Sanders

New Role at WZZK: WZZK is a heritage country station, as the new Program Director, Sanders will be responsible for shaping the station’s programming content, music selection, and overall strategy. His expertise in programming and passion for WZZK and Birmingham make him a valuable addition to the team.

Previous Experience: Before joining WZZK, Mike Sanders served as the PD for three of Saga Communications stations in Clarksville, Tennessee. Notably, he was associated with Country “Beaver 100.3” WVVR from 2021 to 2023. Throughout his career, he has held on-air and programming roles in various markets, including Cookeville, Tennessee, Denver, Idaho Falls, Jacksonville, and Savannah.

Personal Connection: Sanders expressed his excitement about joining WZZK, stating, “WZZK has always been that beacon of light on the horizon for me, and now I have the privilege of being a part of it.” He considers it a full-circle radio moment, as his radio journey began at the University of Alabama.

Randy Chase, SummitMedia’s Executive Vice President of Programming, welcomed Mike Sanders to the WZZK team during this time of growth. His expertise and enthusiasm are expected to contribute significantly to the station’s success.

Denver Radio: Steve Leaving The Alice Morning Show

It’s the end of an era for listeners of the Denver radio station KALC Alice 105.9. Steve from the “Slacker and Steve” show is leaving.

On Monday, the popular DJ duo said they had a big announcement for listeners. While they initially joked that it wasn’t about Taylor Swift’s return to the Mile High City, they ultimately announced that Steve is leaving after 18 years, according to KDVR-TV Fox 31.

“The ‘Slacker and Steve’ show will no longer exist by the end of this week. Things behind the scenes have changed and we’ve come to a mutual decision. I think we’ve all decided it’s time for me to move on,” said Steve on Monday’s show.

During the announcement, Steve said he was grateful that he had the opportunity to say goodbye to listeners and clients before going off the air at the end of the week.

On the “Slacker and Steve” show bio, Steve is described as being the backbone of the show.

“The Slacker and Steve Show wouldn’t be what it is today if it weren’t for Steve, Slacker’s partner in crime. Steve, a self-proclaimed bachelor, cloaks himself with a tough exterior, but fans know that on the inside he’s just a big old softie. Steve is the yin to Slacker’s yang, taking innuendo to the edge; indulging the controversial side of conversation just far enough,” said the “Slacker and Steve Show” on its website.