➦In 1897...British patent No. 12,039 (1897) "Improvements in Transmitting Electrical impulses and Signals, and in Apparatus therefor", was granted to a 22-year-old Marconi.
As a boy he took a keen interest in physical and electrical science and studied the works of Maxwell, Hertz, Righi, Lodge and others. In 1895 he began laboratory experiments at his father’s country estate at Pontecchio where he succeeded in sending wireless signals over a distance of one and a half miles.
In 1896 Marconi took his apparatus to England where he was introduced to Mr. (later Sir) William Preece, Engineer-in-Chief of the Post Office, and later that year was granted the world’s first patent for a system of wireless telegraphy.
The apparatus that Marconi possessed at that time was similar to that of one in 1882 by A. E. Dolbear, of Tufts College, which used a spark coil generator and a carbon granular rectifier for reception. A plaque on the outside of BT Centre commemorates Marconi's first public transmission of wireless signals from that site. A series of demonstrations for the British government followed—by March 1897, Marconi had transmitted Morse code signals over a distance of about 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) across Salisbury Plain. On 13 May 1897, Marconi sent the world's first ever wireless communication over open sea.
➦In 1950...Karen Anne Carpenter born (Died - February 4, 1983 at age 32). She was a singer and drummer who was part of the duo the Carpenters alongside her brother Richard. She was praised for her contralto vocals, and her drumming abilities were viewed positively by other musicians and critics.
Carpenter was born in New Haven, Connecticut, and moved to Downey, California, in 1963 with her family. She began to study the drums in high school, and joined the Long Beach State choir after graduating. After several years of touring and recording, the Carpenters were signed to A&M Records in 1969, achieving commercial and critical success throughout the 1970s. Initially, Carpenter was the band's full-time drummer, but gradually took the role of frontwoman as drumming was reduced to a handful of live showcases or tracks on albums.
Carpenter had the eating disorder anorexia nervosa, which was little-known at the time, and was briefly married in the early 1980s. She died at age 32 from heart failure caused by complications related to her illness; her death led to increased visibility and awareness of eating disorders. Her work continues to attract praise, including being listed among Rolling Stone's 100 greatest singers of all time.
➦In 1963..The Four Seasons became the first group to score three consecutive No. 1 hits in the US with “Walk Like A Man”. Interestingly, the recording session for this song was interrupted by smoke and water seeping into the studio due to a fire in the room above.
➦In 1974....Super WCFL 1000 AM Chicago Survey From March 2, 1974
➦In 1983…Sony and Philips introduced their jointly-developed compact disc system. Within a decade of the CD’s introduction, vinyl records had virtually disappeared from stores. The compact disc is an evolution of LaserDisc technology, where a focused laser beam is used that enables the high information density required for high-quality digital audio signals.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has refrained from issuing an apology following a fiery confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump during a meeting in the Oval Office, but he remains optimistic about repairing their strained relationship.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Zelenskyy expressed confidence that the deep ties between the Ukrainian and American people would ultimately overshadow the tense exchange that unfolded on Friday at the White House.
The highly publicized clash, which also involved Vice President JD Vance, occurred during Zelenskyy’s visit to the United States—a trip prompted by Trump’s announcement that peace negotiations to resolve the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia were nearing completion. What began as a diplomatic engagement quickly escalated into a shouting match witnessed by viewers worldwide, laying bare the frustrations and differing perspectives between the leaders.
Fox News chief political anchor Bret Baier pressed Zelenskyy on the fallout during an exclusive sit-down on Friday’s “Special Report.”
President @ZelenskyyUa thanks the US and Americans for their support of Ukraine + his response to President Trump saying he disrespected him and the Vice President and whether he owes an apology to President Trump-- #SpecialReportpic.twitter.com/eDKL6JKuqF
“Mr. President, do you think your relationship with Donald Trump—President Trump—after today can be salvaged?” Baier asked. Zelenskyy’s response was measured yet resolute. “Yes, of course, because it’s relations more than two presidents,” he said. “It’s the historical relations, strong relations between our people, and that’s why I always began… to thank your people from our people.” He emphasized his gratitude not only to Trump and Congress but, above all, to the American public, crediting them with helping “save our people.” Zelenskyy underscored his desire to preserve the robust partnership between the two nations, adding, “We wanted very much to have all these strong relations, and where it counted, we will have it.”
When pressed about the specifics of the heated exchange, Zelenskyy avoided assigning blame, saying, “I’m not sure that we did something bad.” However, he acknowledged that the altercation was “bad for both sides.” Reflecting on the incident, he stressed the importance of clarity and mutual understanding in maintaining the alliance. “I just want to be honest, and I just want our partners to understand the situation correctly, and I want to understand everything correctly,” he explained. “That’s about us not to lose our friendship.”
The confrontation reportedly stemmed from a sharp exchange over diplomacy and the war’s toll on Ukraine. During the White House meeting, Vice President Vance advocated for a U.S.-led diplomatic effort to secure peace between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy, in turn, attempted to steer the conversation toward Russia’s actions since 2014 and the history of diplomatic efforts—a line of questioning that drew a pointed rebuke from Vance.
“Mr. President, with respect, I think it’s disrespectful for you to come into the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media,” Vance interjected. “Right now, you guys are going around and forcing conscripts to the front lines because you have manpower problems. You should be thanking the president for trying to bring an end to this conflict.” The remarks highlighted the tension between Ukraine’s dire wartime realities and the U.S. administration’s push for a resolution.
President Donald Trump’s rejection of a critical demand from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy set the stage for a fiery public clash during a White House press event on Friday, riveting global audiences and exposing deep fissures between the two leaders. With cameras rolling and reporters poised, Trump and Vice President JD Vance openly rebuked Zelenskyy, a stark contrast to the smoother press appearances Trump had earlier that week with other world leaders.
Sources close to Zelenskyy revealed that the Trump administration had pitched a minerals-for-security deal in private talks, offering Ukraine access to its rare earth resources in exchange for bolstered U.S. support. But the proposal came with a glaring omission: no firm security guarantees to shield Ukraine from another Russian assault. For months, Zelenskyy had insisted that any mineral pact hinged on such protections, a stance he’d reiterated loudly ahead of his Washington trip. When Trump’s team presented a deal lacking teeth, Zelenskyy flat-out refused, igniting Trump and Vance’s ire, according to an insider.
The Oval Office event unraveled swiftly. Barely minutes into the Q&A, the leaders traded barbs in a heated exchange that blindsided aides and left officials scrambling to piece together the meltdown. Trump, flanked by Vance, accused Zelenskyy of ingratitude, pointing to billions in U.S. aid already funneled to Kyiv. Zelenskyy shot back, framing the deal as a hollow gesture that left Ukraine exposed. “We cannot just sign an agreement without any substantial guarantees,” a Ukrainian defense advisor later told Fox News Digital. “It’s not going to work. It’s just going to reward the aggressor—Russia walks away emboldened.”
Body language spoke volumes: Trump’s clipped responses and Zelenskyy’s steely gaze underscored a rift that had been brewing over Ukraine’s strategic leverage and Trump’s push to prioritize American economic wins, like securing mineral rights, over Kyiv’s battlefield needs.
Behind the scenes: Ukrainian officials fumed that the U.S. proposal seemed more a transactional grab than a partnership. “This wasn’t about alliance—it was about exploitation,” one source close to Zelenskyy’s team vented. Trump’s camp, meanwhile, saw Zelenskyy’s defiance as a slap at American generosity, especially with midterm optics in play and MAGA voters wary of endless foreign commitments. The public blowup, raw and unfiltered, laid bare the stakes: Ukraine’s survival versus Trump’s deal-making swagger, with no clear winner—just a stunned world watching the fallout.
New FCC Chairman Brendan Carr is vowing fairness as the agency probes CBS for alleged bias, part of a wider crackdown on broadcast media.
In a Policyband interview this week, Carr promised CBS a “fair shake,” slamming the Biden admin’s FCC for allegedly weaponizing power against foes like Elon Musk while fast-tracking allies like George Soros.
Carr’s reigniting investigations into CBS, ABC, and NBC—canned by ex-Chair Jessica Rosenworcel in December 2024—after reviving complaints about distorted 2024 election coverage. Rosenworcel, a Biden pick, had axed those plus a Fox News case; Carr reopened the first three for public comment, leaving Fox’s settled.
The CBS probe, sparked by the Center for American Rights, claims 60 Minutes skewed a Kamala Harris interview to boost Democrats—CBS denies it.
Carr’s transparency push contrasts with his jab at Biden’s FCC, which he says gave Soros’ 2024 Audacy buy a pass but hit Musk with probes and an $800 million loss. “Musk got targeted; Soros got shortcuts,” he told Policyband.
Carr pitches this as neutral governance, not vengeance, despite echoing Trump’s media gripes. “We’re done with weaponization—allies got perks, dissenters got punished,” he said, aiming to quiet critics who loved Fox scrutiny but now cry foul.
Kristin Donnelly, executive producer of CNN’s “The Source With Kaitlan Collins,” is leaving the network, citing “brutal” hours that wore her down, per Oliver Darcy’s Status newsletter.
A seasoned producer from NBC News and CNN since 2017, her sudden exit stunned colleagues.
It hits as Kaitlan Collins balances her $3 million-a-year gig as primetime anchor and chief White House correspondent—a combo CNN’s cost-cutting boss Mark Thompson may want to shift, eyeing her return to DC post-Trump’s win to cover the administration, given her lukewarm anchor ratings.
Donnelly, key to launching “The Source” in 2023, flagged the grueling schedule in a Thursday note to staff. Her departure adds to CNN’s woes amid sinking ratings, leadership shakeups, and fierce competition from Fox, MSNBC, and digital players.
Last week, Collins’ show led CNN’s primetime in the 25-54 demo with 119,000 viewers but trailed Fox’s “Hannity” and MSNBC’s Maddow.
David Johansen, the pioneering singer-songwriter who spearheaded glam rock and punk as the lead of the New York Dolls, passed away yesterday at his Staten Island residence. He was 75.
Last month, Johansen disclosed his battle with Stage 4 cancer, a brain tumor, and a fractured back. He launched a fundraising effort via the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund to help cover medical expenses, noting, “Asking for help isn’t my nature, but this is a critical situation.”
Johansen’s versatility spanned genres like blues and calypso, with his peak commercial success coming in the late 1980s and early ’90s as Buster Poindexter, his flamboyant, pompadour-sporting lounge persona. However, his most enduring influence stemmed from the 1970s with the New York Dolls—a group of lipstick-clad rebels obsessed with gritty riffs and fierce women—shaping punk, heavy metal, and alternative music.
Among those influenced was Morrissey of the Smiths, who, at 13 in Manchester, England, caught a 1973 BBC broadcast of the Dolls performing “Jet Boy.” That chaotic display struck him as his “first real emotional experience,” as recounted in Nina Antonia’s 1998 book, “The New York Dolls: Too Much Too Soon.” Morrissey later led the band’s U.K. fan club.
The Dolls were infamous for pushing boundaries, particularly with their cross-dressing flair. “The Dolls share a Max Factor lipstick before hitting the stage, like other bands might share a joint,” Ed McCormack observed in a 1972 Rolling Stone piece.
“We wore some wild stuff,” Johansen reflected in the 1987 intro to Buster Poindexter’s “Hot Hot Hot” video. “Those L.A. metal bands don’t own the idea of raiding their moms’ wardrobes.”
Born David Roger Johansen on January 9, 1950, on Staten Island, he was the third of six siblings. His mother, Helen (Cullen) Johansen, worked as a librarian, while his father, Gunvold Johansen, sold life insurance after a past life as a Norwegian opera singer.
In 1964, Johansen was ousted from St. Peter’s Boys School. “They figured out I wasn’t their guy,” he told Will Hermes for the 2011 book, “Love Goes to Buildings on Fire: Five Years in New York That Changed Music Forever.” He graduated from Port Richmond High School in 1967.
Post-graduation, Johansen immersed himself in New York’s avant-garde underworld, orbiting Andy Warhol’s Factory, Max’s Kansas City, and Charles Ludlam’s Ridiculous Theater Company.
During iHeartMedia's Thursday earnings call, CEO Bob Pittman dedicated significant time to championing the enduring strength and potential of the company's broadcast radio division. Pittman, expressed unwavering confidence in radio as a vital growth engine for iHeartMedia, firmly rejecting any notions that it represents a declining industry.
"Broadcast radio remains a resilient and thriving medium," Pittman asserted.
"Today, it boasts a larger audience than it did two decades ago—a remarkable feat in an era where traditional media has faced substantial challenges. While broadcast and cable television viewership have significantly diminished, and print media has seen its readership all but evaporate, broadcast radio has not only held its ground but continues to attract robust listenership."
Bob Pittman
Pittman emphasized that this sustained audience strength positions iHeartMedia to capitalize on new opportunities for expanding radio revenue streams. He highlighted the company’s proactive efforts to integrate its traditional radio offerings with modern advertising technologies, signaling an innovative approach to monetizing its assets.
"As a testament to our forward-thinking strategy and tangible progress, I’m thrilled to share a significant development," Pittman announced. "Starting in March of this year, iHeartMedia’s broadcast radio inventory will be accessible through major digital advertising platforms, including Yahoo’s Demand-Side Platform (DSP) and Google’s Display & Video 360 (DV360). This integration will enable digital buyers to purchase our radio inventory programmatically, alongside other cutting-edge advertising options like Connected TV (CTV). This move marks a pivotal early step in aligning our broadcast radio assets with the evolving preferences of digital advertisers, unlocking the potential for iHeartMedia’s radio portfolio to tap into the rapidly expanding digital and programmatic advertising ecosystem."
Pittman’s remarks underscored his vision of bridging the gap between traditional radio and the digital marketplace, a strategy aimed at ensuring the medium remains competitive and relevant in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. By making radio inventory available through programmatic channels, iHeartMedia aims to attract a broader pool of advertisers who prioritize flexibility and data-driven buying methods.
Notably absent from Pittman’s commentary during the investor call was any mention of a recent letter he received from Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr. Earlier in the week, Carr had reached out to iHeartMedia with pointed questions regarding the company’s practices around artist compensation. In his letter, Carr raised concerns about whether iHeartMedia—and potentially other broadcasters—might be engaging in arrangements where artists are pressured to perform at station-sponsored events or festivals without payment, in exchange for increased or more favorable airplay. The FCC Chairman’s inquiry reflects growing scrutiny over the intersection of radio promotion and fair compensation in the music industry.
Shari Redstone, Paramount’s controlling shareholder, recently urged her board to resolve a legal spat with President Trump, who sued CBS News over an allegedly doctored Kamala Harris interview.
Trump claims deception; CBS calls it baseless.
At a board meeting this month, Redstone pushed for mediation to end the months-long clash, her first clear stance to the full board, per two sources cited by DealBook’s Lauren Hirsch and The New York Times’ Ben Mullin.
CBS News and “60 Minutes” staff fiercely resist settling, while Paramount’s $8 billion Skydance merger hangs under FCC review.
Some execs see a settlement greasing the merger’s wheels; others fear it looks like a bribe—Trump says they’re unrelated. Redstone’s statement sidestepped Skydance but flagged the lawsuit’s business toll, stepping back from daily talks.
Paramount’s now tapped a mediator, risking optics of caving to Trump amid Disney’s $15 million and Meta’s $25 million White House settlements. Inside CBS, backlash brews, and Redstone’s focus seems locked on sealing Skydance, navigating a vengeful Trump era where, as UPenn’s Jill Fisch told DealBook, corporations face tricky political crosshairs.
Mainstream media has hyped up supposed voter backlash against President Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), with headlines from the New York Times, CBS, and NBC painting a picture of furious Republicans turning on their own.
Clips of Georgia Rep. Rich McCormick’s town hall went viral, with outlets like The Daily Beast calling it a “mega-backlash.”
But the reality?
The Daily Mail US reports these protests are less grassroots and more orchestrated—by partisan Democrats and left-wing groups like Indivisible and MoveOn.org, both tied to George Soros’ Open Society Foundation.
These organizations, flush with millions in federal funds, face cuts if DOGE succeeds in slashing waste.
Take Maggie Goldman, a CBS-quoted “concerned voter” at McCormick’s event—she’s a former Buttigieg organizer and Harris donor. Many attendees weren’t even from his district.
Soros-linked NGOs, like the East-West Management Institute raking in $31.2 million in USAID grants last year alone, are now under scrutiny. The media’s playing along, but the pitchforks might just be Soros-funded props.
Fox Corp has tapped ex-Apple TV+ exec Pete Distad as CEO of its new subscription streaming service, set to rival Netflix and Disney+ by late 2025, the Murdoch-led company announced Thursday.
Pete Distad
Distad, who spent a decade at Apple’s streaming arm and helped launch Hulu, recently headed the now-scrapped Venu sports streaming project with Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros Discovery, derailed by legal snags.
With viewers ditching cable—where Fox thrives—for streaming, the company’s been a latecomer to the subscription game, leaning instead on ad-supported Tubi, which boasts 97 million monthly users, a third aged 18-34.
Distad will oversee the unnamed platform, reporting to Tubi Media Group CEO Paul Cheesbrough, and bundle Fox’s sports, news, and brands, per CEO Lachlan Murdoch’s Q2 earnings remarks.
Jeff Bezos’ push to steer The Washington Post’s opinion section toward libertarian “personal liberties” and “free markets” has sparked a fresh wave of cancellations, with over 75,000 digital subscribers ditching the paper, per NPR.
This follows a late October uproar when Bezos axed a Kamala Harris endorsement, prompting 300,000—12% of digital subscribers—to bolt by Election Day.
Despite reeling in 400,000 new subscribers at cut rates, the Post still saw a net loss of hundreds of thousands.
The latest shift led opinions editor David Shipley to quit after failing to sway Bezos, while newsroom vets like David Maraniss and ex-exec Marty Baron slammed it as “craven.”
A spiked Erik Wemple column criticizing the move underscored internal strife. Bezos, unapologetic, told staff via X that the paper’s future lies in focused ideology, not broad opinion, claiming it boosts credibility. Exec editor Matt Murray insists news coverage won’t bend, but skepticism festers as the privately held Post stays mum on the chaos.
CBS News anchor Gayle King has ignited outrage by accepting a $300,000 freebie—a spot on Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin rocket—despite her network’s strict no-gifts policy.
She’ll join Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sanchez and Katy Perry for what’s hyped as the first all-female space flight.
Critics, including Status newsletter owner and ex-CNN analyst Oliver Darcy, call it a blatant conflict of interest, questioning who at CBS approved it. Liberals on Bluesky piled on, slamming King for palling around with Bezos, a Trump-supporting billionaire who recently nixed a Kamala Harris endorsement at his Washington Post and pushed it to lean Trump-friendly.
Reactions range from disappointment—“Gayle, do better”—to vitriol, with some swearing off CBS or wishing death on the crew. Others highlighted the absurdity: free space trips while kids lack school lunches. One NPR commenter raged, “F*ck Katy Perry and Gayle King for enabling this fascist Jeff Bezos.”
The Daily Mail reports the backlash hits as CBS News already grapples with shaky ratings.
Former New York Democratic Governor David Patterson joins 77WABC for Left vs. Right along with host James Flippin. Left vs The Right is a riveting debate every Saturday, from 4pm-5pm, of who’s right, who’s wrong, and where is the common-sense solution that brings both sides together for progress and unity. Patterson and Flippin battle the political, social, and economic differences, ultimately landing on common sense and the truth in every situation.
David Patterson
“I have known David for many years. He is a common-sense politician, with the ability to make insightful observations about national and local politics,” stated John Catsimatidis, Owner of Red Apple Media and 77WABC Radio. “David represents the Democratic perspective with a level-head and a focus on finding the common ground that unites us and moves us forward. Our listeners already know David. His entrée to a regularly scheduled co-host of Left vs. Right will be a welcome addition to our listeners.”
Patterson is a regular guest on 77WABC Radio, including on The Cats Roundtable with John Catsimatidis, Cats & Cosby with Catsimatidis and Rita Cosby, and Sid in The Morning with Sid Rosenberg. Patterson began his radio career as a substitute host for John Gambling on WOR, eventually becoming host of the WOR afternoon drive show.
Patterson is the first legally blind person to serve as governor of a U.S. state, and the first African American governor of New York. He also served as a New York State Senator, rising to the position of Senate Minority Leader. He was also Chair of the New York Democratic Party.
CBS and Audacy have expanded their multiyear partnership, adding over 36 podcasts to their exclusive sales and distribution deal.
The agreement, building on their 2022 CBS Sports podcast collaboration, now includes shows from CBS Entertainment, Media Ventures, News, and Studios. Notable titles like “48 Hours,” “Survivor” companion “On Fire with Jeff Probst,” and “The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert” are now available on the Audacy app and major platforms.
Audacy, which operates over 230 radio stations and podcast ventures like Pineapple Street Studios, sees this as a boost to its premium content offerings despite its recent Chapter 11 filing and CEO transition.
NBC News will feature extensive live special coverage of President Trump’s address to Congress and the Democratic response across broadcast television, streaming and digital on Tuesday, March 4, from the nation’s capital.
NBC Nightly News anchor and managing editor Lester Holt and TODAY co-anchor and NBC News chief legal correspondent Savannah Guthrie will anchor special coverage beginning at 9 p.m. across NBC, NBC News NOW and NBCNews.com.
NBC News’ team on the ground will be dispatched across key locations, including NBC News chief Capitol Hill correspondent Ryan Nobles reporting from the House Chamber, NBC News Capitol Hill correspondent Julie Tsirkin from the U.S. Capitol, NBC News chief White House correspondent Peter Alexander and NBC News senior White House correspondent Gabe Gutierrez from the White House, along with NBC News White House correspondent Vaughn Hillyard.
Ahead of the address on Tuesday, Holt will anchor a special edition of NBC Nightly News live from Washington, D.C.
At 8 p.m. ET, Top Story anchor and NBC News senior national correspondent Tom Llamas and Hallie Jackson NOW anchor and NBC News senior Washington correspondent Hallie Jackson will anchor streaming coverage ahead of Trump’s speech on NBC News NOW.
NBC News NOW will simulcast NBC News’ special report, anchored by Holt and Guthrie, during the address.
Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker will anchor live post-speech analysis on NBC News NOW beginning at 11 p.m.Ahead of the joint session, Welker, Jackson and Llamas will anchor special editions of Meet the Press NOW, Hallie Jackson NOW and Top Story with Tom Llamas, respectively, live from Washington, D.C.
News reporters Sahil Kapur, Scott Wong and Jonathan Allen will report from Capitol Hill for NBCNews.com. NBCNews.com and the NBC News app will feature an up-to-the-minute live blog of Trump’s address and the Democratic response, featuring live updates and analysis from NBC News’ team of anchors, correspondents and reporters on the ground.
The FCC has launched a significant crackdown on unauthorized radio broadcasters in the Miami area, proposing fines totaling nearly $400,000 under the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement Act (PIRATE Act). This enforcement initiative targets so-called "pirate radio" operators whose illegal transmissions pose a threat to the integrity of licensed stations, potentially disrupting commercial broadcasts and critical public safety communications, such as emergency alerts.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr underscored the agency’s firm stance against these illicit operations. "The FCC will not tolerate unlicensed radio broadcasting. It’s that simple," Carr declared in a statement.
"Licensed radio stations have invested significant time, resources, and effort into building their operations. They serve as vital lifelines for the public, delivering news, entertainment, and, in some cases, life-saving warnings during emergencies. Pirate radio operators flout the law, undermine these essential services, and create unnecessary risks for communities." Carr’s comments reflect the FCC’s broader mission to protect the airwaves and ensure that legal broadcasters can operate without interference.
The most substantial penalty in this enforcement sweep is a proposed fine of $325,322 levied against Abdias Datis, a repeat offender accused of running an unauthorized station on 91.7 MHz, branded as Unique FM, in Miami, Florida. FCC agents conducted extensive investigations, tracing the rogue signal on multiple occasions—first in March and November 2024, and again in January 2025—to a single-family home on NW 147th Street in Miami. During their monitoring, agents confirmed the station’s identity as Unique FM, noting that the operator used the on-air moniker "DJ AJ," an alias the FCC has linked to Datis. The size of the fine reflects Datis’s history of violations and the persistent nature of his illegal broadcasts, which have continued despite prior warnings.
In a separate but equally troubling case, the FCC has proposed a $60,000 fine against Aaron Streeter for operating an unauthorized station on 89.1 MHz, known as Da Pound FM, in Miami Gardens, Florida. The investigation began in March 2024, when agents pinpointed the illegal signal to a residence featuring a conspicuous FM antenna in the backyard. Initially, Streeter cooperated with authorities, agreeing to shut down the operation. However, on January 8, 2025, FCC agents detected Da Pound FM back on the air, broadcasting once again from the same location. This resumption of illegal activity prompted the agency to escalate its response with the proposed penalty.
These fines, issued as Notices of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture (NALs), represent formal allegations rather than final judgments. Under FCC procedures, both Datis and Streeter now have the opportunity to respond, presenting evidence or legal arguments to contest the charges. The agency will carefully review all submissions before determining whether to uphold, adjust, or dismiss the penalties. This process underscores the FCC’s commitment to balancing enforcement with due process, ensuring that accused parties can address the allegations leveled against them.
A beloved broadcasting icon in South Bend has officially signed off, marking the end of an era in local radio. Jack Reichert, the legendary voice of WNSN Sunny 101.5, has announced his retirement, bringing his remarkable decades-long career to a triumphant close this week.
For more than ten years, Jack shared the airwaves with WSBT 22’s Morning Anchor, Bob Montgomery, who joined him on Wednesday’s morning show for a heartfelt farewell. The two reflected on Jack’s storied career, reminisced about their time together, and discussed what lies ahead for the retiring radio star. Their conversation painted a vivid picture of a man whose humor, quick wit, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the South Bend community.
Jack Reichert’s journey in broadcasting began nearly five decades ago, in the summer of 1975, when he first stepped into the world of radio at WRBR in Mishawaka. Since joining Sunny 101.5 in 1987, he has been a constant presence, rising before dawn to craft the station into what it is today—one of the most cherished and top-performing radio stations in the region. His distinctive style and engaging personality have resonated with listeners, even without the immediate feedback that live audiences provide. “That’s the thing about radio,” Jack mused during the show. “You have no idea. But when you call in—because, you know, I played back a lot of phone calls—you realize, I gotta keep doing this. I think I’m doing okay.”
Known for his sharp humor and infectious charm, Jack has a knack for connecting with people, a talent that shines through even in the solitary confines of a radio booth. His retirement plans reflect that same warmth and relatability. “The first thing I’m gonna do is go visit friends I haven’t seen in years,” he shared with a chuckle. “I’ve already contacted half of them. They said, ‘Let me know when you’re coming so I gotta warn my wife.’” While he’s eager to reconnect with old pals, Jack assures fans he’s not leaving South Bend. Instead, he looks forward to spending his newfound free time with his family—especially his grandchildren—and hitting the golf course as often as possible.
When asked what he’ll miss most about his time on the air, Jack’s answer was simple yet profound. “It’s just the camaraderie I had with people by doing this—whatever this thing I did,” he said. “I was hoping that it would sell, and it did, and I got lucky.” That humility, paired with his undeniable talent, has been the cornerstone of his success, turning a hopeful venture into a legacy that has entertained and uplifted the South Bend area for generations.
As Jack Reichert steps away from the microphone, his influence on local radio will not soon be forgotten. From his early days at WRBR to his transformative tenure at Sunny 101.5, he has been more than just a voice—he’s been a friend to countless listeners, a steady presence in their mornings, and a true legend in the world of broadcasting.
➦In 1893...Nikola Tesla gave the first public demonstration of radio in St. Louis, although he had presented his work prior to this behind closed doors. Tesla first demonstrated wireless transmissions during a lecture in 1891. Just days before the St. Louis presentation, Tesla addressed the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, on February 23, 1893, describing in detail the principles of early radio communication.
Nikola Tesla
Tesla presented the fundamentals of radio in 1893 during his public presentation, "On Light and Other High Frequency Phenomena." Afterward, the principle of radio communication--sending signals through space to receivers--was widely publicized from Tesla's experiments and demonstrations.
Even before the development of the vacuum tube, Tesla’s descriptions contained all the elements that were later incorporated into radio systems. He initially experimented with magnetic receivers, unlike the coherers (detecting devices consisting of tubes filled with iron filings which had been invented by Temistocle Calzecchi-Onesti in 1884) used by Guglielmo Marconi and other early experimenters.
Radio offers another example of Tesla’s work receiving minimal or no long-term public acknowledgement. While Marconi is often credited with inventing the radio, this presentation by Tesla was recalled in courts several years later in invalidating Marconi patents.
Indeed, it, among other facts, pushed the United States Supreme Court in the 1943 case of Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company of America vs. the United States to state that "it is now held that in the important advance upon his basic patent Marconi did nothing that had not already been seen and disclosed."
To be true, what Tesla demonstrated had more scientific interest than practical use, but he believed that by taking the “Tesla oscillator,” grounding one side of it, and connecting the other to an insulated body of a large surface, it would be possible to transmit electric oscillations a great distance and to communicate intelligence in this way to other oscillators.
In 1898 at the Electrical Exhibition in New York, Tesla would successfully demonstrate a radio-controlled boat. For that work, he was awarded US patent No. 613,809 for a "Method of and Apparatus for Controlling Mechanism of Moving Vessels or Vehicles." Between 1895 and 1897, Tesla received wireless signals transmitted via short distances in his lectures. He transmitted over medium ranges during presentations made between 1897 and 1910.
➦In 1904...Alton Glenn Miller, the man whose name is synonymous with the big band era of the 1940’s, was born in Clarinda, Iowa (Died: December 15, 1944 at age 40).
He was the best-selling recording artist from 1939 to 1943, leading one of the best-known big bands. Miller's recordings include "In the Mood", "Moonlight Serenade", "Pennsylvania 6-5000", "Chattanooga Choo Choo", "A String of Pearls", "At Last", "(I've Got a Gal In) Kalamazoo", "American Patrol", "Tuxedo Junction", "Elmer's Tune", and "Little Brown Jug".
In just four years Glenn Miller scored 16 number-one records and 69 top ten hits—more than Elvis Presley (38 top 10s) and the Beatles (33 top 10s) did in their careers. While he was traveling to entertain U.S. troops in France during World War II, Miller's aircraft disappeared in bad weather over the English Channel.
➦In 1914...Sportscaster Harry Caray born (real name Harry Christopher Carabina..died from a heart attack just shy of his 84th birthday February 18, 1998). He covered five Major League Baseball teams, beginning with 25 years of calling the games of the St. Louis Cardinals with two of these years also spent calling games for the St. Louis Browns.
After a year working for the Oakland Athletics and eleven years with the Chicago White Sox, Caray spent the last sixteen years of his career as the announcer for the Chicago Cubs.
Caray caught his break when he landed the job with the Cardinals in 1945 and, according to several histories of the franchise, proved as expert at selling the sponsor's beer as he'd been in selling the Cardinals on KMOX.
In 1982 he began 15 years of calling the Cubs games on superstation WGN which won him a national following.
➦In 1928...KGFJ Los Angles went on-air 1926. And on this date it became the first radio station in the United States to adopt a 24-hour broadcast schedule. Today, the station is known as KYPA 1230 AM and airs Korean-language programming.
➦In 1932...radio’s first great effort of on-the-spot news coverage began as NBC and CBS radio rushed to Hopewell, NJ to cover the kidnapping of the Charles and Anne Lindbergh baby.
➦In 1932...one of daytime radio’s comedic gems Easy Aces written by and starring Goodman Ace with his ditzy wife Jane, moved from local Chicago exposure to the full CBS network, three times a week. It would delight audiences on that schedule for much of the next 15 years.
➦In 1937..This ad appeared in Broadcasting magazine...
KOY was the first radio station in the state of Arizona, signing on in 1921 as Amateur Radio station 6BBH on 360 meters (833 kHz). Earl Nielsen was the holder of the 6BBH call sign (there were no country prefixes for hams prior to 1928). At that time, broadcasting by ham radio operators was legal.
In 1922, the station received its broadcast license, under the Nielsen Radio & Sporting Goods Company business name, with the callsign KFCB. While the KFCB call letters were sequentially assigned, the station adopted the slogan "Kind Friends Come Back" to match the callsign.
A Phoenix teenager and radio enthusiast named Barry Goldwater was one of the new station's first employees.
When the AM broadcast band was opened in 1923 by the Department of Commerce, KFCB moved around the dial, as did many stations at the time. It was on 1260, 1230, 1310, and 1390 before moving to its long-time home of 550 kHz in 1940. KFCB became KOY on February 8, 1929.
From 1932 to 1949, KOY was the CBS Radio Network affiliate for the Phoenix area.
In 1936, Earl Nielsen sold KOY to Prairie Farmer, dba Salt River Valley Broadcasting Company. He remained Station Manager for a couple of years. Prairie Farmer was the owner of WLS radio in Chicago at the time.
➦In 1941...The National Life and Accident Insurance Company, owners of WSM-AM , became the first commercial broadcaster in the U.S. to receive an FM license from the FCC in 1941. Originally known as W47NV, the station operated for about 10 years, until NL&AI realized that few area households had FM radio receivers and that its commercial potential was lacking. NL&AI shut down WSM-FM in 1951 and returned the license to the FCC.
iHeartMedia reported a notable uptick in its podcasting revenue for the fourth quarter, reaching $139.6 million. The figure reflects a year-over-year increase of approximately 6 percent, driven by heightened advertiser interest. However, the company also faced rising operating expenses, largely attributed to escalating content costs and profit-sharing agreements tied to its podcasting ventures.
The media giant posted total revenue of $1.118 billion for the quarter, marking a solid 4.8 percent rise compared to the same period in the previous year.
During the earnings discussion, Chief Financial Officer Rich Bressler highlighted a significant milestone: iHeart’s net debt stood at $4.52 billion, which he proudly described as “the lowest net debt position in the history of our company,” signaling improved financial health amid its ongoing transformation.
A key topic on the earnings call was the growing buzz around video podcasts—a format that rivals like Spotify are heavily investing in and that YouTube boasts attracts 1 billion users.
Bank of America analyst Jessica Reif Ehrlich pressed iHeart CEO Bob Pittman on the company’s strategy in this space, especially as some consumers shift their attention toward visual media. Pittman offered a measured perspective: “There’s a lot of talk about video podcasting. Clearly, YouTube would love everything to be video podcasting,” he said.
In a surprising move amid swirling rumors of leadership upheaval, CBS News has tapped Tom Cibrowski, a seasoned television veteran with an impressive 25-year tenure at ABC News, as its new No. 2 executive.
Cibrowski steps into the role of president and executive editor, succeeding Adrienne Roark, who recently departed as CBS News president of newsgathering to join Tegna earlier this month. The appointment, announced on Thursday by the network’s embattled president and CEO, Wendy McMahon, comes at a tumultuous time for the Tiffany Network, with insiders speculating that McMahon herself may be on the brink of an unceremonious exit.
Cibrowski’s appointment marks a significant shift for CBS News. Unlike Roark, whose focus was primarily on newsgathering, Cibrowski’s expanded portfolio encompasses oversight of all CBS News programs, as well as the network’s newsgathering and reporting divisions. His extensive experience includes a standout stint as executive producer of ABC’s “Good Morning America,” where he orchestrated the show’s ascent past NBC’s “Today” in the fiercely competitive morning ratings race.
In a memo to staff, McMahon praised Cibrowski’s credentials, writing, “Everything he does is marked by a deep understanding of the news landscape, and he is committed to telling stories with impact, integrity, and fairness.” A former ABC colleague echoed this sentiment, describing him as “a pro, solid, stable, no mistakes.” Another source, familiar with both McMahon and Cibrowski from their overlapping time at ABC, suggested that McMahon “trusts him” and may see him as a key ally in her efforts to stabilize CBS News—and perhaps salvage her own precarious position.
McMahon’s leadership has come under intense scrutiny in recent months, fueled by a series of high-profile missteps that have rattled the network.
Chief among them is the controversial overhaul of “CBS Evening News,” where she replaced veteran anchor Norah O’Donnell with lesser-known, cost-effective co-anchors John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois. The revamped format, which pivoted away from traditional news delivery to emphasize longer, “60 Minutes-style” features, has proven a resounding failure. Ratings have plummeted week after week, and the show’s producers have struggled to adapt during major breaking news events, leaving the broadcast noticeably off-balance. In response to the backlash, the network has attempted a course correction, rejiggering the program to prioritize breaking news and analysis—a move that has done little to stem the tide of criticism.
The chaos at CBS News unfolds against the backdrop of a looming merger between Paramount Global, the network’s parent company, and Skydance Media, a deal expected to close this year.
Michael LaRosa, a seasoned political operative who served as press secretary to First Lady Jill Biden for years, has pulled back the curtain on the inner workings of the Biden administration, shedding light on how aides meticulously shielded President Joe Biden from press scrutiny, dismissed troubling polls, and navigated what some have branded a “cover-up” of his declining health. These revelations come as part of a broader reckoning in Washington, where the 2024 election fallout has sparked a fierce blame game—and LaRosa’s candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the tension and tactics that defined Biden’s final campaign.
Michael LaRosa
For months, if not years, the Washington media seemed bewitched by an unspoken pact, reluctant to fully confront the evident signs of Joe Biden’s physical and mental decline. Whatever force—be it loyalty, fear, or inertia—kept that story under wraps, it has now shattered. The same journalists who once sidestepped the president’s faltering condition are now abuzz with anticipation for Original Sin, an upcoming book by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’s Alex Thompson. Promising an “unflinching and explosive” dissection of Biden’s doomed reelection bid, the book vows to expose how the campaign pressed forward “despite evidence of his serious decline—amid desperate efforts to hide the extent of that deterioration.” The narrative has struck a nerve, amplifying whispers that aides engaged in a deliberate effort to obscure the truth from the public.
This shift has also sparked soul-searching among Biden’s former confidants, many of whom are now wrestling with their roles in the unfolding saga. In a recent interview with Puck’s Tara Palmeri, LaRosa—who departed the White House in 2022 after years as a trusted Biden family spokesperson—offered an unvarnished take on the so-called “cover-up” and the administration’s handling of the president’s image.
Fox News anchor Bret Baier brushed off a barbed critique from former NBC political director Chuck Todd, who had questioned Baier’s journalistic integrity and suggested his relevance in the media landscape has faded. Mediaite reports the exchange underscores a simmering rivalry between two prominent figures in political broadcasting, each representing distinct eras and approaches to the craft.
Todd, once a fixture at NBC and the longtime moderator of Meet the Press, didn’t hold back in his assessment of Baier. “I thought he really actually cared about being a journalist first and wanting to walk that line,” Todd remarked recently, reflecting on Baier’s career. “And now he just wants to have tee time with the president.” The jab painted Baier as having drifted from the principled pursuit of truth into a cozy, access-driven orbit—an accusation that implies he’s traded credibility for proximity to power, a cardinal sin in the eyes of traditional journalism purists.
The comments landed under the spotlight during an interview at Semafor’s Trust in News: A National Summit, where media critic Ben Smith pressed Baier to respond.
.@BretBaier responds to comments from @chucktodd: "I don't know what promoted Chuck to do that. I have an interview to do with the U.K. Prime Minister today. So, I don't know what he's doing." pic.twitter.com/t4gCYSF1T3
Unfazed, Baier took the high road—or at least sidestepped the mudslinging—with a cool, dismissive retort.
Todd’s swipe comes against the backdrop of his own shifting fortunes. Earlier this year, after nearly two decades at NBC, he stepped away from the network that had long been his professional home. His departure from Meet the Press, where he’d helmed the Sunday political talk show circuit with a data-driven, insider’s lens, marked the end of an era for the veteran analyst. Since then, Todd has transitioned into a less visible role, contributing to NBC as a political commentator and occasional podcast voice, leaving some to wonder if his critique of Baier carries a tinge of projection—or envy—from a figure adjusting to life outside the anchor chair.
The dust-up reflects broader fault lines in today’s media world, where accusations of bias, access, and authenticity are flung freely between old-guard stalwarts and cable-news titans. Todd’s “tee time” barb aims at Baier’s perceived coziness with political elites—a charge that’s dogged Fox News broadly—but Baier’s shrug-off suggests he’s less concerned with winning the approval of his peers than with keeping his show in the conversation. As Todd fades from the daily grind and Baier presses on with world leaders in tow, the clash offers a snapshot of two paths diverging: one looking back with a critical eye, the other charging ahead, relevance be damned.
Edison Research is set to unveil the latest installment of its acclaimed study, The Infinite Dial 2025, during a live webinar scheduled for Thursday, March 20, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time. This annual report, a cornerstone of digital media research since 1998, offers an in-depth exploration of how consumers across the United States engage with various forms of digital media.
The study is proudly supported by major industry players, including Audacy, Cumulus Media, and SiriusXM Media, reflecting its significance to the audio and media sectors.
For over two decades, The Infinite Dial has served as a vital resource, meticulously charting the evolution of key trends in digital media consumption. From the rise of streaming audio and the explosion of podcasting to the enduring presence of traditional radio, the adoption of smart audio devices, and the influence of social media, the study captures the shifting habits of American audiences. Its comprehensive benchmark data has become indispensable for a wide range of stakeholders—content creators, media companies, advertising agencies, and investors alike—offering actionable insights into the ever-changing landscape of consumer behavior.
This year’s presentation will be led by Edison Research Vice President Megan Lazovick, who will dive into the 2025 findings and highlight the most significant developments in digital media usage. Joining her is a distinguished special guest, James Cridland, the Editor of Podnews and a veteran with 35 years of experience in the audio industry. Cridland’s participation promises to enrich the discussion with his expert analysis and a broader global perspective on the trends shaping digital audio consumption worldwide.
The webinar is designed to appeal to a diverse audience, including industry professionals, media analysts, and anyone curious about the dynamic world of digital audio. Whether you’re a broadcaster, a marketer, a podcaster, or simply an observer of media trends, this event offers a front-row seat to understanding where the industry is headed. Registration is now open, and those interested in attending can secure their spot by clicking here.
NBC News is working on a new subscription service designed specifically for people who watch videos on their phones.
Cesar Condé, the head of NBCUniversal News Group, shared the news at a Semafor summit in Washington on Thursday. While he didn’t give many details, Condé mentioned that the service is aiming for a launch in the last few months of the year and will work alongside NBC’s other streaming options, like NBC News Now and Today All Day.
Cesar Conde
This new service is being built with mobile users in mind and will offer around 24 live streams in both English and Spanish. It’ll also include on-demand shows like Meet the Press, Today, Nightly News, and Dateline, plus access to NBC News’ podcast library.
NBC News isn’t alone in this move—CNN is also creating a subscription video service aimed at younger viewers. Back in January, CNN’s boss, Mark Thompson, announced their plans, describing it as a fresh way for digital subscribers worldwide to watch CNN’s news programming on any device they prefer.
With younger audiences flocking to platforms like TikTok and YouTube, traditional TV news companies are trying to catch up. Condé highlighted NBC News as a major provider of high-quality video content and said this new service would build on that strength, though he kept further details under wraps.
Cumulus Media has announced it has introduced a new weekday on-air lineup on Albuquerque Top 40 station, 93.3 The Q (KOBQ-FM) that blends familiar voices with fresh energy.
Leah Black returns to co-host the station’s new morning show with Carlos Duran, Program Director and 20-year on-air personality at 93.3 The Q. The morning show, “Wake Up with Carlos D and Leah Black,” airs Monday through Friday from 6:00am-10:00am. Early in her career, Black co-hosted mornings on the station when it aired as 93.3 KOB-FM and also hosted afternoons.
Also joining the 93.3 The Q on-air lineup is Janae Martinez, who hosts Afternoon Drive on the station, airing weekdays from 2:00pm-6:00pm. Martinez previously co-hosted Albuquerque’s number one afternoon show with Duran, and brings her vibrant energy and deep connection with the audience to her new role at 93.3 The Q.
Jeff Berry, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Albuquerque, said: “These additions reflect Cumulus Media’s commitment to delivering fresh, engaging, and high-quality local content to our listeners. Carlos D and Leah Black’s new show brings a dynamic and exciting energy to mornings, while Janae Martinez’s return ensures that our afternoons remain a powerful connection point for Albuquerque. Together, this team represents the very best of Albuquerque radio.”
Carlos Duran said: “Leah is not only a fantastic broadcaster but also a great friend. Watching her growth beyond the mic has been incredible, and I’m thrilled to have her back at 93.3 The Q. Our chemistry and shared love for this city will make this new show something truly special for our listeners.”
Leah Black commented: “I’ve known Carlos for decades and have always admired his ability to connect with listeners. Teaming up with him to wake up the Duke City is a true dream. We already know each other so well, and I think that creates a natural and entertaining dynamic that listeners will love. Carlos and I share a common desire to laugh and have fun, and we can’t wait to bring everyone along for the ride.”
Janae Martinez remarked: “As a proud Burqueña, I’m absolutely over the moon to be back at my favorite station—the one I’ve always called home! This is a full-circle moment that fills me with so much joy and gratitude. There’s nothing like connecting with my community right here in Albuquerque, and it feels amazing to be back where I truly belong. Let’s create new memories together and make afternoons on 93.3 The Q unforgettable!”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt unleashed a blistering attack on New York Times reporter Peter Baker, branding him a “left-wing stenographer” after he drew a provocative parallel between President Trump’s media policies and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s authoritarian crackdown on press freedoms.
The fiery confrontation erupted during a tense exchange sparked by Baker’s questioning of the Trump administration’s bold move to seize control of the White House press pool and bar Associated Press reporters from key access points, including the Oval Office and Air Force One.
Baker, a seasoned journalist with decades of experience, including a stint as a Moscow correspondent during the early years of Putin’s regime, took to X on Tuesday to air his concerns. In a pointed post, he likened the White House’s actions to the Kremlin’s playbook, writing, “Having served as a Moscow correspondent in the early days of Putin’s reign, this reminds me of how the Kremlin took over its own press pool and made sure that only compliant journalists were given access.” His comparison framed the administration’s decision as a dangerous step toward stifling dissent and curating a compliant media corps, echoing tactics he’d witnessed firsthand in Russia.
Leavitt, the 27-year-old press secretary known for her sharp tongue and unapologetic style, wasted no time in firing back. “Give me a break, Peter,” she wrote, dismissing his critique as overblown theatrics.
“Moments after you tweeted this, the President invited journalists into the Oval and took questions for nearly an hour. Your hysterical reaction to our long overdue and much-needed change to an outdated organization is precisely why we made it.” Her retort painted Baker’s alarm as not just premature but willfully blind to the administration’s openness, casting the press pool shakeup as a necessary correction to a broken system rather than a power grab.
But Leavitt didn’t stop there. She pivoted to a personal broadside, taking aim at Baker and what she portrayed as a broader rot within the media establishment. “The era when self-styled journalists—really just left-wing stenographers like yourself—could unilaterally control the narrative and decide who gets to ask what questions is long gone,” she declared.
Her words bristled with contempt, framing Baker as a relic of a bygone time when, in her view, ideologically driven reporters masquerading as impartial observers held unchecked sway over public discourse.
