Radio History: April 6

 ➦In 1892...Lowell Jackson Thomas born (Died at age 89 – August 29, 1981).  He was a writer, actor, broadcaster, and traveler, best remembered for publicizing T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia). He was also involved in promoting the Cinerama widescreen system.

In 1930, he became a broadcaster with the CBS Radio network, delivering a nightly news and commentary program. After two years, he switched to the NBC Radio network but returned to CBS in 1947. In contrast to today's practices, Thomas was not an employee of either NBC News or CBS News. Prior to 1947, he was employed by the broadcast's sponsor Sunoco. He returned to CBS to take advantage of lower capital-gains tax rates, establishing an independent company to produce the broadcast which he sold to CBS. He hosted the first-ever television news broadcast in 1939 and the first regularly scheduled television news broadcast (even though it was just a camera simulcast of his radio broadcast) beginning on February 21, 1940 over local station W2XBS (now WNBC) New York. It is not known whether all or some of the radio/TV simulcasts were carried by the two other television stations capable of being fed programs by W2XBS at the time, which were W2XB (now WRGB) Schenectady and W3XE (now KYW-TV) Philadelphia.

In the summer of 1940, Thomas anchored the first live telecast of a political convention, the 1940 Republican National Convention which was fed from Philadelphia to W2XBS and on to W2XB. Reportedly, Thomas wasn't even in Philadelphia, instead anchoring the broadcast from a New York studio and merely identifying speakers who addressed the convention.

The television news simulcast was a short-lived venture for him, and he favored radio. Indeed, it was over radio that he presented and commented upon the news for four decades until his retirement in 1976, the longest radio career of anyone in his day (a record later surpassed by Paul Harvey). His signature sign-on was "Good evening, everybody" and his sign-off "So long, until tomorrow," phrases that he would use in titling his two volumes of memoirs.

➦In 1931...Little Orphan Annie debuted on the NBC Radio Network.  Annie was based on the daily American comic strip created by Harold Gray and syndicated by the Tribune Media Services. The strip took its name from the 1885 poem "Little Orphant Annie" by James Whitcomb Riley, and made its debut on August 5, 1924, in the New York Daily News.

The plot follows the wide-ranging adventures of Annie, her dog Sandy and her benefactor Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks. Secondary characters include Punjab, the Asp and Mr. Am. The strip attracted adult readers with political commentary that targeted (among other things) organized labor, the New Deal and communism.

The strip's popularity declined over the years; it was running in only 20 newspapers when it was cancelled on June 13, 2010.

➦In 1945...'This is Your FBI' debuted on ABC radio as a weekly 30-minute police drama. Frank Lovejoy served as narrator over the following eight years.

➦In 1984...One of the most influential Top 40 stations in the world in the 1960s and 1970s Windsor’s iconic rock radio station CKLW (The Big 8 ) switched format to Adult Standards, branding as ‘The Music of Your Life.’

Trump Extends TikTok Deadline for 75 Days

President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for TikTok to continue operating in the United States by an additional 75 days. 

The decision marks the second time he has delayed the enforcement of a federal law aimed at banning the popular short-form video app unless its China-based parent company, ByteDance, divests its U.S. operations to an American buyer. 

The initial deadline, set by a law signed by former President Joe Biden in April 2024, required ByteDance to sell TikTok by January 19, 2025, or face a nationwide ban due to national security concerns. On his first day in office, January 20, 2025, Trump signed an executive order granting a 75-day reprieve, pushing the deadline to April 5, 2025. With that deadline approaching, he announced a further extension on April 4, 2025, giving ByteDance until mid-June 2025 to finalize a deal.

Trump shared the announcement on his Truth Social platform, stating that his administration has been working diligently to "save TikTok" and has made "tremendous progress" toward a deal. He emphasized that the extension was necessary to ensure all approvals are secured, expressing a desire to avoid TikTok "going dark" in the U.S., where it boasts over 170 million users. 

The move comes amid ongoing negotiations with potential U.S. buyers, though no specific buyer has been confirmed. Trump has suggested that his recently imposed 34% tariffs on Chinese goods could pressure China into approving a sale, a tactic he views as a powerful economic tool for national security and trade balance.

The original law allows the president to grant a one-time 90-day extension if significant progress toward a divestiture is demonstrated, but Trump’s actions—first a 75-day delay in January and now another 75 days—have raised questions about their legal grounding. Some experts argue that his extensions fall into a "gray area," as the law is technically in effect, and his orders may simply reflect a choice not to enforce it rather than a formal extension. 

The Music Industry Will Be Impacted By Trump Tariffs

The Trump administration’s tariff policy, aimed at revitalizing U.S. manufacturing, has introduced significant changes that are rippling through various sectors, including the U.S. music industry. 

The policies reflects a broader "America First" agenda, leveraging tariffs to encourage domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign imports. While the intent is to bring manufacturing jobs back to American soil, the music industry—spanning instrument manufacturing, vinyl production, and live events—is experiencing both immediate effects and bracing for potential long-term consequences.

The policy’s cornerstone involves imposing tariffs on imported goods, with recent actions including a minimum 10% tariff on all trade partners, a 25% tariff on foreign-made automobiles, and additional levies on countries with which the U.S. has trade deficits, announced around April 2, 2025. 

For the music industry, this translates into higher costs for imported materials and products critical to its ecosystem. For example, many musical instruments, such as electric guitars, rely on components sourced from countries like China and Mexico. Posts on X and industry analyses suggest that companies like Fender are facing increased operating costs—estimated at $20 to $25 million—due to tariffs on parts from these regions, even for guitars assembled in the U.S. This has led to credit rating downgrades for Fender, signaling financial strain that could push prices higher for consumers or force companies to rethink supply chains.

Vinyl records, a resurgent medium in the music market, are another area of impact. The U.S. music industry, already navigating post-pandemic supply chain challenges, faces rising costs for vinyl production as tariffs increase the price of imported raw materials and finished products. Industry voices, like Thirty Tigers’ David Macias, have warned of vinyl albums potentially reaching $35 each, turning a once-accessible format into a luxury item amid broader economic pressures. The American Association of Independent Music has noted that the Berman Amendment might shield some imports like phonographs from regulation, but this offers little relief for the broader cost increases affecting labels and retailers.

Live music is also feeling the squeeze. Tariffs threaten to reduce tourism and international artist bookings, as retaliatory measures from trading partners could deter foreign visitors who fuel events like festivals.

Looking ahead, the future consequences hinge on how these tariffs evolve and whether they achieve their manufacturing goals. Proponents argue that incentivizing domestic production could eventually bolster U.S.-based instrument makers or vinyl pressing plants, echoing successes like steel industry investments during Trump’s first term. However, critics point to historical data—like the net loss of manufacturing jobs from 2018-2019 tariffs—suggesting that higher input costs and retaliation often outweigh gains. 

The ripple effects are already tangible: higher costs for gear, records, and potentially fewer live shows. 

Cincy Radio: Thomas Brennaman 'Nervous' Over New 700 WLW Gig

Thom Brennaman is gearing up for a full-time return Monday to radio broadcasting, admitting to feeling "really nervous" about the gig. But his jitters aren’t about what folks might think of him stepping into the 700 WLW weekday morning drive-time slot—some 4 1/2 years after a hot-mic slip-up derailed his gig as the Cincinnati Reds’ TV voice—or even about the chance of another on-air flub. He’s owned that mistake, learned from it, and moved on, according to The Cincinnati Enquirer.

At 61, Brennaman’s nerves stem from tackling a fresh career hurdle: his first talk show after years of play-by-play on TV and radio. And he’s doing it at WLW, the station where his dad, Marty, cemented his legacy calling Reds games. He’s following in the footsteps of local radio heavyweights like Jim Scott and Mike McConnell, after his final sign-off Friday. That’s a big shadow to step out from, and Brennaman’s eager to prove he’s up to it, signing a three-year deal with WLW while still calling college football and basketball for the CW Network.

🚨WATCH🚨 Mike McConnell’s final send off .

Thank You Mike.

Listen to his full final show :https://t.co/mP6Ktzmn6O pic.twitter.com/AGKIkpmUzX

— 700WLW (@700wlw) April 4, 2025

“We landed in Cincinnati when I was 10 because of my dad,” Brennaman states. “I’ve been tied to WLW, through family or my own work, for 51 of my 61 years. This station’s a big deal. I just hope I can measure up to the folks who’ve sat in this chair before me.”

Brennaman’s a smart pick for iHeartMedia's WLW. According to the Enquirer's Jason Williams, Brennaman is driven, still sharp as ever, and brings a versatile edge with a solid grasp of local and national politics. 

Replacing Mike McConnell, Brennaman’s nerves also hint at his gratitude for a second chance he wasn’t sure he’d get.

FCC's Carr Insists He's Not Retaliating Against Media Critics

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has publicly denied allegations that he is leveraging the FCC to retaliate against media outlets critical of President Donald Trump, asserting that such claims have been "mischaracterized." 

This statement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Carr's actions since he assumed the chairmanship. Critics, including media watchdogs and Democratic lawmakers, have expressed concern that Carr, a vocal Trump ally who authored the FCC chapter in the conservative Project 2025 blueprint, might use the agency’s authority to target broadcasters perceived as unfavorable to Trump.

The controversy stems from Carr’s swift moves in his first week as chairman, including reviving complaints against CBS, ABC, and NBC—networks Trump has frequently criticized—for alleged bias. For instance, Carr reinstated a probe into CBS over its "60 Minutes" interview with Kamala Harris, which Trump claimed was selectively edited to favor her. Similar actions against ABC and NBC followed, while a complaint against Fox News was notably left dismissed. These decisions have fueled accusations that Carr is weaponizing the FCC to settle political scores, especially given Trump’s past threats to revoke licenses from networks he dislikes.

In response, Carr has maintained that his actions are about enforcing the FCC’s public interest mandate, not political retribution. 

He has argued that broadcasters, who use public airwaves, must operate fairly, and he’s pointed to public distrust in media—echoing a sentiment from a Jeff Bezos op-ed—as justification for his focus. In a statement to Reuters in March 2025, Carr insisted the CBS investigation remains "active and ongoing," rejecting calls from some conservative groups to drop it, who feared setting a precedent for future regulatory overreach. He’s also emphasized that his goal is to ensure equal application of rules, not to punish specific viewpoints, though skeptics like Free Press Action’s Craig Aaron argue Carr’s selective targeting belies his free-speech warrior image.

Carr’s defenders, including Trump, who called him a “warrior for Free Speech,” say he’s addressing long-standing conservative grievances about media bias. However, critics, including FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez, warn that his approach risks infringing on First Amendment protections, accusing him of cherry-picking cases to align with Trump’s agenda.

Trump Admin Stalls On Funding For RFE

The Trump administration has continued to withhold congressionally approved funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), a news network founded to counter Soviet propaganda, despite a judge’s order to keep it running. Facing a March 2025 executive order to cut "non-statutory" spending, RFE/RL sued the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) after it threatened to end grants. 

On March 25, Judge Royce Lamberth issued a restraining order, ruling the cuts unlawful, and the USAGM released $7.5 million but has since delayed April’s $12 million, forcing staff furloughs and program cuts. USAGM head Kari Lake cites oversight concerns, but critics argue this defies Congress and weakens U.S. influence abroad as RFE/RL fights to survive.

Kari Lake

This delay has forced RFE/RL to furlough staff and cut programming, straining its operations across Europe and Asia, where its journalists—five of whom are currently jailed in autocratic nations—face significant risks to deliver independent reporting. RFE/RL’s general counsel, Benjamin Herman, emphasized the urgency, stating, “Our journalists… rely on the timely disbursement of these congressionally appropriated funds.” The network’s president, Stephen Capus, has vowed to remain in court until all funds are released, highlighting the broader stakes: abandoning RFE/RL could cede influence to adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran, who have long targeted its operations.

Kari Lake, in a statement, justified the delay as an effort to enhance oversight and curb alleged "waste, fraud, and abuse" among USAGM grantees, though she provided no specific evidence. Critics, including lawmakers and rights advocates, argue this stance defies both Congress’s "power of the purse" and Lamberth’s order, potentially undermining U.S. soft power at a time of heightened global competition.

Meanwhile, sister outlets like VOA, a federal agency directly employing government staff, remain silenced—replaced by music—while RFA faces similar funding cuts, with 75% of its U.S.-based staff furloughed.

Milwaukee Radio: Brian Noonan Out At N/T WTMJ

Brian Noonan, a familiar voice at WTMJ 620 AM since 2015, has parted ways with the Good Karma Brands-owned station. Noonan, who most recently co-hosted the early afternoon program "Spanning the State," shared the news of his departure on Facebook last weekend.

Brian Noonan

In his March 30 post, Noonan wrote, "After my show on Friday, I was told I was being 'sun downed' at Newsradio 620 WTMJ, which simply put, means I was let go. It’s a harsh but common reality in the radio world. I’m still reeling and not entirely sure of all the reasons, but I’m thankful for the chance to have been part of this storied station in different roles for over ten years."

Prior to his time at WTMJ-AM, Noonan spent nearly 15 years as a radio personality at WGN-AM in Chicago.

For the time being, it appears Brey will take the reins of "Spanning the State" alone. The show, which was introduced as part of a major lineup overhaul at WTMJ-AM in February 2024, airs weekdays from 1 to 3 p.m.

Atlanta Radio: MLB Braves Sign 12-Year Extension With The Fan

The MLB Atlanta Braves Friday solidified their long-term radio presence by signing a 12-year extension with WCNN (680 The Fan AM/93.7 FM), ensuring that all regular-season games will continue to be broadcast in Atlanta through at least the 2036 season. 

This deal extends a partnership that has been a cornerstone of Braves fandom since 680 The Fan became the team’s flagship station in 2008, following a stint with WGST and earlier affiliations dating back to the team’s arrival in Atlanta in 1966. The agreement underscores the Braves’ commitment to maintaining a strong local radio presence, a medium that remains vital for fans, especially during the team’s recent resurgence as a perennial contender, including their 2021 World Series title.

WCNN, owned by Dickey Broadcasting Company, will air every regular-season game—typically 162 per year, barring schedule changes—along with postseason contests, depending on MLB’s national broadcast agreements. 

Complementing this flagship deal is the Braves Radio Network, widely regarded as the largest in professional sports. Spanning over 170 affiliate stations across Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and parts of North Carolina and Florida, the network ensures that Braves baseball reaches millions of listeners throughout the Southeast. 

This radio deal aligns with the Braves’ broader 2025 media strategy, which includes a TV partnership with FanDuel Sports Network for all regionally available games, a direct-to-consumer streaming option, and a separate agreement with Gray Media for 15 over-the-air broadcasts. Together, these efforts ensure accessibility across platforms, but the WCNN extension reaffirms radio’s enduring role in connecting with fans, especially those on the road or in rural areas where TV or internet access might lag. The Braves Radio Network’s reach, paired with the 680 The Fan app’s digital convenience, positions the team to maintain its status as a Southeast sports juggernaut well into the next decade.

S-F Radio: KNBR and MLB Giants Announce Broadcast Extension

Cumulus Media’s KNBR The Sports Leader announces that it has signed a multi-year extension with the San Francisco Giants as the Major League Baseball powerhouse’s flagship radio station. KNBR has been the official radio broadcast home for the Giants since 1979. The longstanding partnership between KNBR and the Giants has delivered live game broadcasts with some of the most monumental events in Giants history, called by legendary broadcasters Jon Miller, Dave Flemming, Mike Krukow, and Duane Kuiper, pre-game and post-game shows and off-season programming including Giants’ Hot Stove.

 

Larry Baer, San Francisco Giants President and CEO, said: “We are excited to continue our incredible partnership with KNBR, and thrilled KNBR remains our flagship station for Giants fans at least through the 2028 season. Led by the best broadcast team in all of Major League Baseball, KNBR offers our fans unique and insightful coverage not only throughout the season but the entire year.”

 

Larry Blumhagen, Regional Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus San Francisco/Los Angeles, commented: “All of us at KNBR are elated to know we are committed having Giants baseball through our 50th year together in 2028. We look forward to providing Giants fans with gameday coverage on all our platforms from AM/FM to streaming.”

 

Mike Hohler, Program Director, KNBR, remarked: “Growing up listening to Giants baseball on KNBR, I have vivid memories of childhood summer days spent listening to Hank Greenwald paint the picture of Will Clark hitting a ball into the upper deck at Candlestick Park. It means a great deal to me to be at the helm of KNBR when signing an extension that keeps these two legendary brands together through the 50th year of our partnership. It's a proud moment for me not only as the Program Director for KNBR, but as a lifelong Giants fan."

TV Ratings: Downs and Ups Of Women's Basketball

The 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament has shown a notable shift in TV ratings through the Elite Eight, reflecting both a decline from the exceptional 2024 season and sustained growth compared to earlier years. 

The tournament has averaged 967,000 viewers across its first four rounds, according to data compiled by Sports Media Watch. This figure represents a 31% decrease from the 1.4 million average at the same point in 2024, a year marked by unprecedented viewership driven largely by the "Caitlin Clark effect." 

However, it also marks a 47% increase over the 2023 tournament’s average at this stage, underscoring that interest in women’s college basketball remains robust even without last year’s record-breaking momentum.

The 2024 tournament set a high bar, culminating in a championship game between South Carolina and Iowa that averaged 18.9 million viewers, peaking at 24.1 million, making it the most-watched basketball game—college or professional—since 2019. That year’s Elite Eight averaged 6.2 million viewers, buoyed by marquee matchups like Iowa vs. LSU (12.3 million), a rematch of the 2023 final. In contrast, the 2025 Elite Eight averaged 2.9 million viewers, a 53% drop from 2024’s 6.2 million but a 34% rise from 2023’s 2.2 million, positioning it as the second-most-watched Elite Eight on record. Key games this year included UCLA vs. LSU (3.4 million) and South Carolina vs. Duke (3.1 million), both on ABC, showing that while viewership has cooled, it still outpaces pre-2024 norms.

Several factors explain these trends. The 2024 surge was fueled by Caitlin Clark, whose historic scoring and Iowa’s deep runs drew massive audiences—her games alone averaged over 10 million viewers across the tournament. Her departure to the WNBA, alongside stars like Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, left a void in 2025. 

The broader context shows women’s basketball sustaining its upward trajectory. The 2025 Sweet 16 averaged 1.7 million viewers, down 29% from 2024’s 2.4 million but up 39% from 2023’s 1.2 million, making it the second-most-watched Sweet 16 ever. Regular-season ratings also reflect growth, with ESPN reporting a 3% increase over 2024 and a 41% jump from 2022-23, the highest since 2008-09. Networks like ABC and ESPN have capitalized on this, with games like Texas vs. Tennessee (2.9 million) and Notre Dame vs. TCU (2.5 million) on ABC driving viewership. Posts on X and industry analyses suggest that while 2025 won’t match 2024’s peaks, the sport’s “floor” has risen significantly, supported by new stars and increased media exposure.

 South Carolina and Connecticut will face each other in the championship game Sunday (3 pm ET, ABC). On the men's side, the Final Four begins tomorrow, with the Florida Gators taking on the Auburn Tigers (6:09 pm ET, ABC) and the Houston Cougars taking on the Duke Blue Devils (8:49 pm ET, ABC). 

Bruce Springsteen To Release Seven 'Lost' Albums

Bruce Springsteen announced yesterday the upcoming release of “Tracks II: The Lost Albums,” a box set featuring seven previously unreleased albums, including 83 songs—74 of them never heard before. Spanning recordings from 1983 to 2018, the collection includes material that was fully recorded but ultimately shelved. The album, a follow-up to his 1998 “Tracks” box set, is set for release June 27.

Springsteen, often called "The Boss," is known for his gritty voice, anthemic rock, and themes of working-class life. He rose to fame with the 1975 breakthrough album “Born to Run” and has since released 21 studio albums, including “Born in the USA,” which produced seven top 10 US singles—among them its often-misinterpreted title track.

The 75-year-old has sold more than 140 million records worldwide and performed thousands of live shows, including marathon concerts lasting up to four hours. He has won 20 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Tony Award, and was inducted into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1999.

R.I.P.: Mimi Griswold, Longtime CNY Radio Personality

(1957-2025)

Longtime Syracuse area radio personality Mary "Mimi" Griswold, 67, died Thursday. 

Born on June 30, 1957, in Brockton, Massachusetts, she eventually settled in the Central New York area, though the Cape was never far from her heart.

A graduate of Syracuse University, Mimi spent more than 25 years in the radio industry at Galaxy Media. She was a pioneer for women in the industry and mentored many young women throughout the years.

As an on-air host and program director, Mimi's fierce passion for music touched the lives of Central New Yorkers. For decades, her mainly acoustic, highly eclectic "Blue Moon Café" radio show on TK99 and WOUR was a part of the Sunday morning routine for listeners far and wide. She cherished the connections and community that came along with it.

When the mics turned off, you would find Mimi on a "right turn only" road trip, conjuring up a new hobby, sipping a cup of coffee in nature, working on the family's passion project "Queen V's Bees" or taking her kayak on an adventure to the Adirondacks.

Radio History: April 5

➦In 1922…KOB-AM Albuquerque, New Mexico signed-on.

Ralph Goddard

The station was founded at the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts in Las Cruces (now New Mexico State University) by Ralph Willis Goddard, and began broadcasting tests in 1919 under the call letters 5XD. On April 5, 1922 the station began regular operation as KOB, a callsign which had belonged to marine radio aboard the Princess Anne before its February 2, 1920 shipwreck on Rockaway Shoals, Long Island.  New Mexico A&M sold the station after Goddard was electrocuted while adjusting the transmitter on December 31, 1928. In 1933 the station moved to Albuquerque, and was later bought by the Albuquerque Journal.

In 1948, Tom Pepperday, owner and publisher of the Journal, signed on KOB-TV, the first television station between the Mississippi River and the West Coast. The stations passed to Time-Life in 1952 and to Hubbard Broadcasting in 1957. Hubbard Broadcasting sold the radio stations in 1986. In order to trade on the well-known KOB calls, the new owners simply added an extra "K" to the radio station's call letters.

KOB was involved in a 38-year-long dispute with New York City station WABC (originally WJZ) over the use of the 770 kHz frequency. KOB was moved there from 1030 to make room for WBZ in Boston. While the Federal Communications Commission requested that WJZ install a directional antenna to allow the stations to interoperate over large areas, the station refused to comply, encroaching on the range KOB was intended to cover. Only after reaching the U.S. Supreme Court was the issue settled, when the FCC assigned KOB to a new license class. KKOB and WABC became sister stations when Citadel Broadcasting purchased ABC Radio in 2007; Citadel merged with Cumulus Media on September 16, 2011.

➦In 1922…WDZ-AM, Decatur, Illinois signed-on.

WDZ started in the office of the James Bush grain elevator in Tuscola, Illinois. The original call sign was 9JR and the original intent of the station was to broadcast grain reports, making it the first radio station to do so. The station later started mixing some music in with the grain reports.

The radio station's power was increased to 1000 watts in 1939 with a new 252-foot (77 m) tower. During that time, WDZ used remote broadcasts that was unique for a rural station. The station started the use of remote broadcasting equipment which included a truck called, the "WDZ 'White Relay Truck"', equipped with a 100-watt transmitter to relay broadcasts from area locations, and some two-watt, battery operated transmitters that could be worn on the backs of assistants when a program originated from remote sites.   The station was on 1020 kHz in 1941, but changed to 1050 kHz, and has remained there since.

1050 kHz has been a Mexican Clear Channel since 1941 (was a U.S. Clear Channel before 1941), and U.S. operations on Mexican Clear Channels was restricted to 1,000 watts and to daytime operations, only, until the "Rio" treaty took effect in the late 1980s (before 1941, 1020 kHz was a U.S. Clear Channel and that, too, was restricted). After "Rio" took effect, it was a simple matter for WDZ to add night operations with as little as 250 watts, and today the station is indeed operating with its pre-"Rio" maximum daytime power and its post-"Rio" minimum nighttime power. Anything more than 1,000 watts days and 250 watts nights very likely would require installation of a directional antenna system at great capital expense. WDZ is diplexed (i.e., it uses the very same vertical radiator) with co-owned WSOY.

WDZ Performer's Studio

In 1949, the station moved from Tuscola to Decatur.   The relocation of WDZ from Tuscola to the west and to Decatur greatly facilitated the eventual allocation of a station on 1080 kHz in Oak Lawn, suburban Chicago, IL.

WDZ Transmitter Studio

On March 31, 2008, the station switched to a sports radio format as part of the Fox Sports Radio network. Within a year the station switched programming from Fox Sports Radio to ESPN Radio.

WDZ and its sister stations WCZQ 105.5 FM Monticello and WDZQ 95.1 FM, 1340 WSOY 1340 AM and WSOY 102.9 FM Decatur, were sold to Neuhoff Media in February 2009.

Today, WDZ 1050 AM, powers with 1000 Kw-Day, 250 watts Night. and airs ESPN Sports.

➦In 1927...The NBC Orange Network started distributing programs. Also known as the NBC Pacific Coast network it was a National Broadcasting Company radio network in the western United States from 1927 to 1936, before two-way broadcast-quality communications circuits reached the West to relay the larger NBC Red Network and NBC Blue Network.

The Orange Network had its own production and performance staffs on the West Coast. In addition to producing original West Coast works, the Orange Network also had duplicate productions of many eastern shows until the end of 1928. In December 1928, a single broadcast-quality line was completed to San Francisco, and the Orange Network could then carry eastern programming directly, but only one program at a time; from then until 1936, Orange Network fed some programs from Red and some from Blue.

In 1936, a second broadcast-quality circuit was completed, this time to Los Angeles. This circuit also allowed the direction of amplification to be reversed in under 15 seconds, allowing Los Angeles, with its easy access to talent during the Golden Age of Hollywood, to feed broadcast-quality sound to the eastern networks as well. With the opening of the second circuit, the need for the Orange Network disappeared, and the stations on the old Orange Network became the Pacific Coast Red Network, fed by KPO (AM), except KGO (AM), which itself fed a new Western Blue Network made up of stations on the short-lived former NBC Gold Network.

➦In 1958...the first Greatest Hits album ever , Johnny’s Greatest Hits, featuring Johnny Mathis on Columbia Records, made it onto the Billboard LP chart for the first time. The album remained on the charts for 490 weeks.

➦In 1982…Record World magazine ended publication after 36-years. It was one of the three main music industry trade magazines in the United States, along with Billboard and Cash Box. It was founded in 1946 under the name Music Vendor, but in 1964 it was changed to Record World, under the ownership of Sid Parnes and Bob Austin. It ceased publication on April 10, 1982.

Surprise! Iger Drops-In On ABC News Editorial Meeting

file photo

Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger made an unexpected appearance at ABC News’ daily editorial meeting in New York City on Thursday, where he voiced serious concerns about President Donald Trump’s newly enacted “Liberation Day” tariffs. According to Oliver Darcy’s Status newsletter, Iger warned of the potential fallout not only for Disney but for the broader U.S. economy.

The Wrap reports Iger told staffers that shifting overseas manufacturing to the U.S. on short notice is unfeasible and emphasized that the public largely misunderstands how tariffs function. Anonymous attendees interpreted this as a nudge for ABC News to better educate its audience on the issue.

The visit followed Trump’s signing of an executive order on Wednesday, which introduced sweeping tariffs targeting over 180 countries and U.S. trade partners. Trump hailed the move as “Liberation Day,” though economists and industry figures, including Hollywood executives, are increasingly apprehensive about its consequences.

Throughout the closed-door discussion, Iger remained actively engaged, offering candid insights, per Darcy’s account. He expressed particular worry about Disney’s cruise division, noting that two new ships under construction could face higher steel costs, potentially forcing the company to cut back on investments. On the topic of relocating production, Iger pointed out the logistical challenges, citing the thousands of specialized workers—such as those at Apple’s Foxconn facilities in China—who would need to be replaced and retrained in the U.S.

Iger’s presence at the meeting suggests growing unease with the Trump administration’s policies, a sentiment echoed by Thursday’s market reaction: the U.S. stock market saw its sharpest decline since 2020. The tariffs are set to roll out in phases, starting with a 10% levy on all countries this Saturday, followed by steeper, tailored tariffs on nations with significant U.S. trade deficits beginning April 9.

Local Radio Remains A Top 5 Advertising Platform

Local radio continues to maintain a strong presence in the U.S. advertising landscape, securing its position as the fifth-largest advertising medium within the $171 billion local ad marketplace, as reported by BIA Advisory Services.

This ranking highlights radio's enduring relevance amid a rapidly evolving media environment, where it competes with both traditional and digital platforms for advertising dollars.

According to BIA's latest U.S. Local Advertising Forecast for 2025, local radio is projected to generate $12.3 billion in advertising revenue, encompassing both over-the-air (OTA) and digital channels. This figure reflects a slight adjustment from 2024 estimates, with a forecasted decline of 4.9% year-over-year when including political spending, and a 6% drop for OTA revenue alone. Despite this dip, radio’s ability to hold its top-five spot underscores its resilience and adaptability, particularly as it integrates digital innovations with its traditional broadcasting strengths.

The forecast points to significant growth in digital radio ad spending, driven by key sectors such as financial services, insurance, and quick-service restaurants (QSRs), each expected to invest over $95 million in 2025. Hospitals are also emerging as a notable spender in local radio advertising, reflecting the medium's appeal to diverse industries seeking to connect with local audiences. This blend of traditional and digital revenue streams enables radio to remain a vital tool for advertisers, especially in rural and remote communities where it retains strong cultural and practical relevance.

BIA Advisory Services emphasizes that local radio's transformation—merging compelling content with digital capabilities—positions it to offer unique value to advertisers. This adaptability ensures it continues to compete effectively within the broader $171 billion local advertising marketplace, trailing only larger mediums like digital ads, television, direct mail, and newspapers, though the exact rankings of the top four are not specified in the provided context.

Forecast: YouTube To Become World’s Largest Media Company

YouTube is poised to overtake Disney as the world’s largest media company by revenue in 2025, a remarkable milestone for a platform that began just 20 years ago. 

According to a recent report by MoffettNathanson analyst Michael Nathanson, YouTube generated $54.2 billion in revenue in 2024, trailing Disney’s media revenue (excluding its parks and experiences divisions) by just $5.5 billion, with Disney at $59.7 billion. Nathanson predicts that YouTube’s growth trajectory will see it surpass Disney by the end of 2025, earning it the title of the “new king of all media.”

This projection hinges on YouTube’s explosive growth across multiple revenue streams: advertising, subscriptions, and its virtual MVPD service, YouTube TV. 

In 2024, YouTube’s ad revenue hit $36.15 billion, up 15% year-over-year, with a record-breaking $10.5 billion in Q4 alone. Subscription services like YouTube Premium and YouTube Music, boasting over 125 million global subscribers as of March 2025, contributed an estimated $18.1 billion in “other revenue.” YouTube TV, with over 8 million subscribers despite a price hike from $73 to $83 per month in December 2024, further bolsters its earnings. Nathanson forecasts that by 2027, YouTube could reach over $75 billion in annual revenue, driven by continued subscriber growth and enhanced monetization.

Fox News Has Best Quarter Ever on YouTube

Americans continue to rely on Fox News for information and analysis across multiple platforms.

Fox News finished the first quarter of 2025 with over one billion video views on YouTube for its best quarter in history, according to Emplifi.

Fox News finished the historic quarter as the No. 1 news brand on YouTube with a staggering 1.2 billion views. It was the second consecutive quarter that Fox News finished atop the news competitive set, surpassing the nearest competitor, MSNBC’s 945 million views, by 26%. 

CNN managed only 489 million views, while NBC News delivered 391 million views, ABC News followed with 357 million views and CBS News trailed with only 172 million views.

Fox News finished No. 1 with a 26% increase compared to the fourth quarter of 2024, which was previously the best quarter the network ever had on YouTube.

Fox Business also secured 326 million YouTube views in the first quarter compared to just under 90 million for CNBC and under 30 million for Bloomberg. As a result, Fox Business has finished No. 1 among the business news competitive set for the 13th straight quarter, according to Shareablee.

Fox News Digital finished 2024 as the top news brand with multiplatform views and minutes while seeing yearly growth across all metrics, according to Comscore. The momentum has carried over to 2025 as Fox News Digital dominated the news-heavy month of February, finishing as the No. 1 news brand in multiplatform views and minutes.

The digital success comes as Fox News Channel had the highest-rated quarter among weekday total viewers in cable news history during the first quarter of 2025, also topping broadcast competition in key measurables along the way. 

Consumers Rush To Make Pricey Purchases

Would you pay $2,300 for an iPhone?

U.S. consumers have been increasingly motivated to make expensive purchases ahead of anticipated price hikes driven by President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs, which were enacted via an executive order on Wednesday. These tariffs, set to impose a 10% levy on imports from all countries starting Saturday, followed by higher reciprocal tariffs on nations with significant U.S. trade deficits beginning April 9, 2025, have sparked a rush to buy big-ticket items before costs rise.

This consumer behavior is particularly evident in the automotive sector. In the first quarter of 2025, U.S. auto sales surged, with buyers snapping up pickup trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles. The looming tariffs, expected to increase vehicle prices by thousands of dollars due to their reliance on imported parts and materials, have driven this preemptive spending. Consumers are acting on expert advice to purchase now rather than face steeper prices later, a sentiment echoed across various industries reliant on overseas manufacturing.

The rush to make purchases

The tariff − the highest U.S. tariff on any country − is raising the specter of steep price hikes on goods imported from China, including Apple iPhones.

Most of the 200 million iPhones Apple produces each year are made in China. Of the consumer goods affected by the 54% tariff, iPhones could take the biggest hit from the sharp hike. 

Apple, which commands high profit margins, would have to either absorb the costs and pass them onto investors or raise prices and pass them on to consumers. If Apple were to do the latter, consumers could see prices jump as much as 43%, analysts estimated Thursday. 

Even the cheapest new iPhone – the iPhone 16e – would see a big jump in price from $600 to $858 – a risky strategy when inflation-weary consumers are reeling from high prices and cutting back on pricey purchases. 

Some consumers are “doom spending”. The current wave of pricey purchases reflects a strategic move to beat tariff-induced inflation. However, not all are participating; many Americans, frustrated by prices already 19% above pre-pandemic levels as of early 2024, are trading down to cheaper alternatives or cutting back on non-essentials.

Sactown Radio: Tom Sullivan To Step Away From Daily Show

Tom Sullivan, a veteran talk radio host, is stepping down from his daily afternoon show on iHeartMedia’s NewsRadio KFBK in Sacramento, where he has been a mainstay for over four decades.

 His final broadcast is scheduled for Friday, May 30, 2025, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career and for the station. Sullivan’s show, airing weekdays from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET, has also been nationally syndicated through Talk Media Network, reaching listeners across multiple markets.

Sullivan began his broadcasting career at KFBK in 1980, initially as a financial editor, and became the station’s top-rated talk host by July 1998. Known for his smart, opinionated, and inclusive style, he built a loyal audience in Sacramento while expanding his reach nationally. 

In 2007, he relocated to New York to join Fox Business Network as an anchor and Fox News Talk Radio for syndication, continuing his KFBK show remotely. After leaving Fox in 2017, he partnered with Talk Media Network to maintain his syndicated presence, originating from KFBK (1530 AM and 93.1 FM). 

His career highlights include being named to Talkers magazine’s Heavy Hundred, a nomination for Radio & Records News/Talk Personality of the Year, and years as a fill-in host for Rush Limbaugh’s program.

His retirement announcement came on April 2, 2025, framed as a “semi-retirement” by KFBK, suggesting he’s not fully exiting the media landscape. Sullivan, now in his mid-70s, plans to shift focus to a new podcast, allowing him to stay connected with listeners in a less demanding format.

Influential Columnist Exits WaPo

Eugene Robinson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, announced his departure from The Washington Post on April 3, 2025, after 45 years with the newspaper, citing a “significant shift” in the paper’s mission under its billionaire owner, Jeff Bezos. 

Robinson’s exit is the latest in a series of high-profile resignations triggered by Bezos’ recent changes to the Post’s opinion section, which he outlined in February 2025. Bezos declared that the section would focus exclusively on defending “personal liberties and free markets,” excluding viewpoints that oppose these principles—a move that has stirred controversy and prompted a broader exodus of veteran staffers.

Robinson, who joined The Washington Post in 1980 and began writing for the opinion pages in 2005, expressed his decision in an email to colleagues, stating, “The announced ‘significant shift’ in our section’s mission has spurred me to decide that it’s time for my next chapter.” He wished the paper well, adding, “I won’t be a stranger, and I’ll be reading your unparalleled work every single day.” 

His departure follows a career that included roles as a city hall reporter, foreign correspondent, and assistant managing editor, culminating in a 2009 Pulitzer Prize for his commentary on Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign. Beyond the Post, Robinson has been a prominent political analyst on NBC News and MSNBC, often critiquing President Donald Trump, whom he once called a “weak, narcissistic man” and accused of trampling the Constitution.

The changes have also impacted the Post’s readership, with over 75,000 digital subscribers canceling in the 48 hours following Bezos’ initial announcement, though the paper later reported gaining 400,000 new subscribers. Robinson had hinted at his unease earlier, telling MSNBC’s Morning Joe in February that the shift was a “fork-in-the-road moment” for many staffers, as it deviated from the independent journalism they signed up for.

FCC Commissioners Taking Active Role At NAB Show

Commissioners Anna Gomez and Nathan Simington of the FCC are set to lead significant policy discussions at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show 2025, taking place April 5–9 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Their appearances highlight the FCC’s engagement with pressing regulatory and technological issues facing the broadcast industry.

Anna Gomez, a Democratic commissioner sworn in September 2023, will host a Q&A session on Monday, April 7, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. in room W219 as part of the Broadcast Management Track. 

Anna Gomez

Known for her outspoken advocacy on diversity, fairness, and consumer protection in broadcasting, Gomez brings over 30 years of experience in communications law and policy. Her recent public stances include criticizing FCC Chairman Brendan Carr’s rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and calling an investigation into CBS News politically motivated. 

At the NAB Show, her session, moderated by Wall Street Journal reporter Joe Flint, will likely cover regulatory priorities, the challenges and opportunities for broadcasters in today’s media landscape, and her push against government overreach in media affairs. Given her background—12 years at the FCC, including as Deputy Chief of the International Bureau, and leadership roles at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)—expect her to emphasize digital equity, broadband access, and the FCC’s role in serving the public.

Nathan Simington, a Republican commissioner confirmed in 2020, will deliver keynote remarks on Tuesday, April 8, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Theater 2 (room W2631) during the session “Overcoming Hurdles to Full ATSC 3.0 Deployment.” 

CRS Accepting Applications For 2026 Agenda Committee

Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) is currently accepting applications for the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2026 Agenda Committee.

The volunteer team plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational programming for CRS 2026, an annual event that serves as a key gathering for country music and radio industry professionals. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 18, 2025, and the seminar itself is scheduled to take place March 18–20, 2026, in Nashville.

The CRS Agenda Committee is composed of industry volunteers from various sectors, including country radio, streaming services, and the broader music industry. Their primary responsibility is to design and plan the educational content—such as panels, sessions, and discussions—that will address the evolving needs and trends in country radio and music. This includes tackling topics like programming, digital innovation, streaming, and industry challenges, ensuring the seminar remains a vital resource for professionals seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.

Leading the 2026 Agenda Committee is Chair Shelley Hargis from BMG/BBR Music Group, who brings continuity from her role in previous years. She is joined by Co-Vice Chairs Krista Hayes-Pruitt, also of BMG/BBR Music Group, and Kevin Callahan, Programming Executive at Pamal Broadcasting, with Callahan stepping into the leadership team this year. Their combined expertise spans label operations and radio programming, promising a balanced perspective in curating the agenda.

Applicants must commit to attending in-person planning meetings in Nashville from July 21–23, 2025, at the Virgin Hotel, as well as the full CRS 2026 event in March. While committee members receive free registration for the seminar, they are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses.

Mother's Day Coming. So Is Edison's Women's Audio Report

Edison Research, in collaboration with SiriusXM Media, is set to release the Women's Audio Report, a detailed study focusing on women's audio consumption habits in the United States. 

The report will be unveiled through a two-part webinar series scheduled for April 15 and April 29, 2025, at 2 PM ET. The initiative reflects Edison Research's ongoing commitment to exploring audio trends and listener behaviors, particularly within specific demographic groups. 

The webinars will provide insights into key aspects of how women engage with audio content, including listener demographics, content preferences, discovery habits, and their interaction with advertising. The presentations will be led by Megan Lazovick, Vice President at Edison Research, and Melissa Paris, Vice President of Sales Research at SiriusXM Media, offering a blend of research expertise and industry perspective.

Expanding on the significance of this report, it’s worth noting that women represent a substantial portion of audio consumers, yet their specific preferences and behaviors are not always fully understood or highlighted in broader industry analyses. The report is expected to cover how women discover audio content, whether through podcasts, music streaming, or spoken-word formats like audiobooks and radio. 

It may also explore how factors such as age, lifestyle, or cultural background shape their choices. Additionally, the inclusion of advertising engagement suggests the study will offer practical insights for marketers looking to reach female audiences more effectively through audio channels.

The decision to present the findings in a two-part webinar series indicates a depth of data that goes beyond a single report. The first session on April 15 might focus on foundational findings—demographics and consumption patterns—while the second on April 29 could delve into more nuanced topics like content preferences or actionable takeaways for the industry. 

As streaming platforms, podcasts, and smart speakers continue to grow, companies are eager to refine their approaches to different listener groups. The Women's Audio Report could reveal shifts in how women use audio compared to men or highlight emerging trends, such as the rise of female-driven podcast genres like true crime or wellness. For SiriusXM Media, a partner in this project, the findings could inform programming and advertising strategies across its vast network, which includes satellite radio and streaming services.

Social Media Flack Still Aimed At CBS, Lesley Stahl

Lesley Stahl, a journalist from 60 Minutes, is receiving criticism for her interview with Keith Siegel, a former Hamas hostage, as social media users express outrage, claiming she showed sympathy toward the terrorist organization.

Stahl faced online condemnation after questioning Siegel about whether Hamas intentionally starved him or simply lacked food to provide. "Do you think they starved you because or they just didn’t have food?" she asked Siegel, following his account of how his captors grew harsher after his wife, Aviva, was freed.

I can't believe my eyes. Lesley Stahl had the audacity to ask a Jewish hostage, who was tortured and starved by Hamas, if Hamas really meant to starve him or if they just didn't have enough food.

Is this a joke? How the hell can she even ask him that?pic.twitter.com/utofSTtbk8

— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) March 31, 2025

Siegel, who endured 484 days in captivity, responded, "No, I think they starved me, and they would often eat in front of me and not offer me food."

Multiple pro-Israel X accounts have highlighted the interaction, accusing Stahl of justifying the actions of the Islamic terrorists. The "Jew Fight Back account" posted, "Shame on 60 Minutes. Shame on CBS. And shame on every apologist who still can’t admit that Hamas is pure evil."

Ari Hoffman, a conservative journalist, also weighed in, stating, "Lesley Stahl & CBS should be ashamed of themselves. Throughout the interviews with the released hostages, Stahl used Hamas data & talking points... She should ask the Nazis if they meant to starve the Jews in the Holocaust or didn't have enough aid."