Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Nielsen: TV Viewing Hits 12-Month High In January


TV viewing in the U.S. reached a 12-month high in January 2026, rising 3.7% from December, according to Nielsen's Gauge report. The surge was driven by strong sports programming, returning broadcast dramas, a 9% jump in cable viewership, and cold weather keeping people indoors.


Cable posted the largest monthly gain among platforms, climbing to 21.1% (or 21.2% in some reports) of total TV time. Sports viewing on cable surged 49% month-over-month, fueled by ESPN's coverage of the College Football Playoffs, including quarterfinals, semifinals, and the championship, which drove an 82% increase in ESPN's viewing. Cable news rose 13%, boosted by an active news cycle, with Fox News up 17% and CNN up 29%. ESPN and Fox News each captured 2.2% of total TV usage, combining for 21% of cable viewing.

Broadcast viewing increased 4.2% to 21.5% of total TV time. NFL games dominated, claiming the top 15 broadcast telecasts and accounting for 30% of the category's viewership. Broadcast dramas jumped 24%, led by ABC's "High Potential" as the most-watched drama. Broadcast news gained 10%, headlined by ABC's "World News Tonight."

Streaming held a leading 47% share of TV viewing (slightly down from December's record 47.5%), with time spent up 2.7% month-over-month. YouTube led with 12.5% share. Netflix posted its strongest month yet at 8.8% share (up 1% from December) and topped streaming programs for the second straight month with "Stranger Things" amassing 15.4 billion viewing minutes.

Other streaming highlights:

WBD To Reopen Deal Talks With Paramount Skydance


Warner Bros. Discovery announced Tuesday it will reopen limited deal talks with Paramount Skydance, creating the potential for a renewed bidding contest with its preferred partner, Netflix.

Netflix has granted Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) a seven-day waiver, ending February 23, 2026, to engage with Paramount and seek its "best and final" offer, addressing remaining deficiencies in Paramount's proposal. WBD's board continues to unanimously recommend the Netflix merger and has scheduled a special shareholder vote on that deal for March 20.

Paramount, pursuing a hostile all-cash acquisition of the entire WBD company (including cable networks like CNN and TNT), recently sweetened its tender offer. A senior Paramount representative orally indicated willingness to raise the bid to $31 per WBD share from the current $30 if talks resume. 

Paramount has also committed to covering the $2.8 billion termination fee WBD would owe Netflix if the Netflix deal collapses, plus a "ticking fee" of 25 cents per share per quarter starting in January 2027 if its transaction delays.

Good Morning! Let's Check The Pulse for Tuesday, Feb 17


Radio Broadcasting

Regulatory and Ownership Discussions:  The FCC continues its periodic review of broadcast ownership rules, with recent Senate Commerce Committee hearings (early February) focusing on media ownership in the digital age. Testimony from NAB leaders and others debated potential relaxation of limits, including national TV caps (relevant to broader consolidation discussions) and local radio rules unchanged for decades amid streaming competition. No final actions occurred in mid-February, but the ongoing process could lead to changes allowing more flexibility for radio groups. Other FCC updates include minor operational tweaks, such as FRN update requirements and foreign ownership codifications.

Formats:  "Yacht Rock" has emerged as a breakout format trend in early 2026, blending classic soft rock with modern appeal on several stations. Yacht Rock refers to a retroactively named genre of smooth, polished soft rock from the late 1970s and early 1980s. It features glossy production, breezy vocals, sophisticated arrangements (often with jazz and disco influences), and laid-back grooves that evoke images of leisurely sailing on a yacht in sunny Southern California waters. The term originated from a satirical 2005 YouTube comedy series called Yacht Rock, which poked fun at the era's "smooth" music scene. Read More: HERE

Media Industry

Streaming and Digital Media Momentum:  Streaming platforms are accelerating growth, with forecasts showing robust ad revenue and sports rights investments. Roku projected strong 2026 platform revenue (~$4.89 billion, up 18%) driven by ad-supported streaming shifts and expectations to exceed 100 million streaming households. Streamers are poised to spend $14.2 billion on sports rights in 2026 (up from $13.2 billion in 2025), with Amazon Prime Video leading. Netflix and others emphasize ad-tier expansion, while global content spend rises modestly (streaming up ~6% to $101 billion). Broader trends include AI fatigue, journalist-led independent platforms (e.g., Substack), and trust concerns around undisclosed AI content.

Advertising and Broader Industry Trends:  U.S. ad markets show resilience, with political/midterm election spending and events like the World Cup providing tailwinds. Analysts highlight programmatic growth across TV/audio/commerce media, AI-driven personalization, and hybrid models. Pharma marketing discussions (e.g., around RFK Jr.'s HHS role and potential ad restrictions) reflect policy intersections with media. Entertainment faces labor talk preparations and consolidation speculation (e.g., Warner Bros. Discovery reassessing Paramount merger dynamics amid bids).

U-S News
  • Trump Administration Foreign Policy Moves:  Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized strong U.S. support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán during a visit to Budapest, calling Orbán's success vital to American interests ahead of Hungary's tight elections. Rubio highlighted close ties between Trump and Orbán.
  • President Trump criticized a clean energy agreement between California Governor Gavin Newsom and the United Kingdom as "inappropriate," slamming direct dealings with a Democratic governor.
  • Domestic Incidents and Crime: A deadly shooting at a Rhode Island ice skating rink during a high school hockey game killed at least two people (reports vary on exact toll), described as targeted. Police responded to chaos with players and fans fleeing.
  • In Georgia, an undocumented immigrant allegedly caused a fatal car crash while fleeing ICE agents, killing a public school teacher (Dr. Linda Davis). The incident has fueled immigration enforcement debates.
  • Ongoing developments in the Nancy Guthrie disappearance case, including family members cleared as suspects and new details from authorities.

Report: CNN's Anderson Cooper To Exit CBS' 60-Minutes


Anderson Cooper, one of television's most prominent journalists, is leaving CBS News's "60 Minutes" after nearly 20 years as a correspondent, citing a desire to prioritize time with his young children.

The 58-year-old anchor announced the departure on Monday, stating it will occur after the current season ends. "Being a correspondent at 60 Minutes has been one of the great honors of my career," Cooper said. 

"For nearly twenty years, I’ve been able to balance my jobs at CNN and CBS, but I have little kids now and I want to spend as much time with them as possible, while they still want to spend time with me."

He will continue his full-time roles at CNN, including anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360," hosting "The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper," and his podcast "All There Is with Anderson Cooper."

CBS News expressed appreciation for his contributions and left the door open for a potential return. 

"We’re grateful to him for dedicating so much of his life to this broadcast, and understand the importance of spending more time with family," the network said. "60 Minutes will be here if he ever wants to return."

Cooper's exit comes amid broader changes and reported turmoil at CBS News under new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, who began her role in October and is pushing for an overhaul to attract audiences across formats. Weiss has described the previous broadcast-focused strategy as unsustainable, stating in a recent staff town hall that clinging to it would leave the network "toast."

CBS Pulls Interview From Colbert Broadcast


The FCC's renewed enforcement of the Equal Time rule—prompted by Chairman Brendan Carr—led CBS to pull a planned interview with Texas State Rep. James Talarico (D), a Democratic Senate candidate, from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert's broadcast.

Instead, LateNighter.com reports the full sit-down was posted to the show's YouTube channel, though Colbert was barred from sharing the link or a QR code on air.

During Monday night's episode, Colbert defied CBS lawyers' warnings not to discuss the matter and openly criticized the decision.

He explained that network lawyers directly instructed the show not to air Talarico, nor even mention the cancellation, citing the Equal Time rule. This FCC regulation requires broadcasters to offer equal opportunities to opposing candidates if one appears (outside bona fide news exemptions).Colbert mocked the rule as the FCC's "most time-honored" after the Super Bowl nipple ban and recapped Carr's January letter questioning exemptions for talk shows he claimed were "motivated by partisan purposes.

"In response, Colbert accused Carr—the Trump-appointed FCC chair—of partisan bias himself, quipping "FCC you" and calling the move an attempt to "Dutch oven" America's airwaves while silencing Trump critics.

Judge Sets Response Deadlines In Cumulus, Nielsen Lawsuit


A federal judge in New York has set a briefing schedule advancing the high-stakes legal clash between Cumulus Media and Nielsen, centering on Nielsen's counterclaims that Cumulus improperly shared its confidential radio ratings data with competitor Eastlan Ratings.

U.S. District Judge Jeannette A. Vargas has issued the scheduling order in the Southern District of New York, establishing deadlines for Cumulus to respond to Nielsen's February 2 counterclaims. 

Nielsen accuses Cumulus of breaching their 2023–2025 Services Agreement by disclosing proprietary ratings data to Eastlan in early 2025, and seeks damages, declaratory relief, and an injunction barring further sharing or use. Cumulus must file its response—including any motion to dismiss—by March 4. 

Apple Upgrade Podcasts To Take on YouTube and Spotify


Apple on Monday announced a major update to Apple Podcasts, introducing an integrated video podcast experience this spring that allows seamless switching between audio and video in the same feed, supports picture-in-picture, offline downloads, full-screen horizontal viewing, and dynamic video ad insertion for creators.

The enhancement uses Apple's HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) protocol for adaptive playback and better in-app controls. It positions Apple Podcasts to better compete with video-heavy platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Netflix, amid rising video podcast consumption—about 37% of people over age 12 watch them monthly, per Edison Research.

Creators gain new monetization options through dynamic video ads (including host-read spots) via participating hosting providers and ad networks. Apple will not charge creators or hosts for distribution but will take an impression-based fee from ad networks for HLS-delivered ads, starting later this year.Launch partners include Acast, Amazon-owned ART19, Triton’s Omny Studio, and SiriusXM.

“Twenty years ago, Apple helped take podcasting mainstream by adding podcasts to iTunes, and more than a decade ago, we introduced the dedicated Apple Podcasts app,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services. 

Don Lemon Gains Subscribers, Followers


The arrest of former CNN anchor Don Lemon by federal authorities has dramatically benefit his and his independent media presence. 

In the nearly two weeks since his January 30, 2026, arrest, Lemon has gained more than 300,000 new followers on Instagram, added 140,000 subscribers to his YouTube channel, and seen his Substack newsletter surge by 73% to exceed 140,000 total subscribers—many of them paid members at $8/month in what he calls “Lemon Nation.”

The surge stems from widespread backlash against the Trump administration's prosecution, which many view as an attack on press freedom. Lemon, now an independent journalist, was charged with federal offenses—including conspiracy to interfere with religious rights and violating laws protecting access to houses of worship—after covering and livestreaming an anti-ICE protest that disrupted a service at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, on January 18. 

Former NPR Host Sues Google Over AI Voice

David Greene

Former NPR host David Greene is suing Google, alleging the company's AI tool NotebookLM illegally replicated his distinctive voice for its synthetic male podcast host without his permission or compensation.

The lawsuit, filed January 23, 2026, in Santa Clara County Superior Court, California, claims Google violated his right of publicity and other laws by mimicking his delivery, cadence, intonation, persona, and even filler words like "uh" in the Audio Overviews feature—which generates podcast-style discussions from uploaded documents.

Greene, who co-hosted NPR's Morning Edition for about a decade until 2022 and now hosts the podcast Left, Right & Center on SoCal's KCRW (an NPR member station), said he was "completely freaked out" after discovering the resemblance in fall 2024. Friends, family, former colleagues, and listeners flooded him with messages—emails and texts—asking if he had licensed his voice to Google, with one former coworker emailing to confirm because it "sounds very much like you."

He described the similarity as "uncanny" and emphasized that his voice, built over decades of acclaimed radio work, is central to his professional identity and brand. Greene stressed he is not an "anti-AI activist" but called the unauthorized use "very weird" and troubling, amounting to exploitation of his identity. He seeks unspecified damages and an injunction to halt further use of the voice.

Google has denied the allegations, calling them baseless. A company spokesperson stated the male voice in NotebookLM's Audio Overviews is based on a paid professional actor hired by Google, not derived from Greene or any unauthorized source.

The case highlights growing debates over AI voice synthesis, training data ethics, right of publicity, and whether stylistic mimicry (without direct sampling) constitutes infringement, amid similar high-profile suits involving AI and creators or celebrities. No lawsuit involves NPR itself.

South Bend Radio: Tommy Bickham Joins WNDV For Mornings


Sound Management CHR “U93” (WNDV-FM 92.9) in South Bend, Indiana, has named veteran Midwest radio personality Tommy Bickham as its new morning show host.

Bickham succeeds longtime morning host Tim Bayless, who is relocating to Florida after 11 years at the station. Bickham and Bayless are co-hosting together through Bayless' final show on February 25.

News Media Remains Active In Tucson


The media circus in Tucson surrounding the Nancy Guthrie case has been intense and chaotic, transforming a normally quiet, upscale Catalina Foothills neighborhood into a frenzy of national and international attention.

Picture this: satellite trucks, news vans, and camera crews lined up for blocks along the street leading to Nancy Guthrie's home, turning a peaceful desert suburb—known for its spaced-out houses, long driveways, gates, and cactus-filled landscapes—into something resembling a major crime scene spectacle. 

Reporters, producers, photographers, and even independent journalists or YouTubers camped out 24/7, live-streaming updates, conducting stand-ups, and jostling for the latest soundbites or glimpses of law enforcement activity. Some described it outright as a "literal circus," with equipment everywhere, people milling about, and occasional bizarre moments (like someone reportedly having a pizza delivered right to the front door of the property).

FL Radio: MARC Radio Purchases Lakeland Cluster


MARC Radio Group continues to significantly expand its presence in Florida by acquiring a cluster of radio stations in the Lakeland-Winter Haven market from Hall Communications.

The deal includes :
  • Country formatted WPCV-FM (97.5 "97 Country") — a heritage station with strong coverage from near Tampa to Sanford, an award-winning morning show, and a loyal audience. MARC has stated it will retain the successful country format, with Chief Revenue Officer Scott Miller noting, "You don't mess with success."
  • Adult Hits WONN (1230 "MAX") and its FM translators W296CS (107.1) and W240DB (95.9).
  • Talk formatted WLKF-AM (1430) (note: the current FM translator at 96.7 is not included in the deal).
The transaction is expected to close in May, subject to approval by the FCC.  This acquisition comes just days after MARC announced another major purchase: five stations along Florida's I-95 corridor (including markets from the Space Coast to the Treasure Coast, such as Vero Beach-area outlets in AC, adult hits, country, and news/talk formats), further strengthening the privately owned company's statewide footprint.

MI Radio: FCC Calls Sovereign Communications For Fees Non-Payment


A Michigan radio broadcaster, Sovereign Communications, LLC, faces potential revocation of licenses for its seven stations after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued an "Order to Pay or Show Cause".

The FCC's Media Bureau and Office of Managing Director initiated revocation proceedings due to $37,250.51 in unpaid regulatory fees, plus penalties, interest, and administrative costs, spanning fiscal years 2021 through 2024 (with some sources noting gaps like 2022 possibly partial or misstated in summaries, but the total balance is confirmed).Sovereign has 60 days from the order's release (until mid-April 2026) to either:Pay the full amount (or apply an existing $9,200+ overpayment credit toward it), or demonstrate why the fees are inapplicable, should be waived, deferred, or otherwise excused.

Failure to comply could result in the FCC revoking the licenses for all seven stations in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.The affected stations include:
  • In Sault Ste. Marie: Rock 101 WSUE (101.3 FM), CHR “99.5 Yes FM” WYSS (99.5 FM), News Talk 1400 WKNW (1400 AM), and soft AC WSOO (1230 AM).
  • In Newberry: Classic hits “Oldies 93” WNBY-FM (93.9 FM) and country WNBY (1450 AM).
  • In Pickford: “Country 105” WMKD (105.5 FM).The largest portions of the debt tie to the FM stations, with over $9,500 owed for WSUE, and more than $7,000 each for WYSS and WMKD; smaller amounts apply to the AM facilities.

Yacht Rock: The Adult Contemporary Format Evolves


Yacht Rock refers to a retroactively named genre of smooth, polished soft rock from the late 1970s and early 1980s. It features glossy production, breezy vocals, sophisticated arrangements (often with jazz and disco influences), and laid-back grooves that evoke images of leisurely sailing on a yacht in sunny Southern California waters. 

The term originated from a satirical 2005 YouTube comedy series called Yacht Rock, which poked fun at the era's "smooth" music scene.

Core artists and examples include:
  • Steely Dan (e.g., "Do It Again," "Peg")
  • Christopher Cross ("Sailing," "Ride Like the Wind")
  • Michael McDonald (Doobie Brothers era and solo, like "What a Fool Believes")
  • Toto, Kenny Loggins, Boz Scaggs, Hall & Oates, Ambrosia, and one-hit wonders like Robbie Dupree ("Steal Away") or Player ("Baby Come Back")
It's music that's melodic, relaxing, and radio-friendly—think sophisticated hooks without heavy distortion or aggression.

Why the 2026 Breakout on Radio?  The genre has enjoyed a long, slow resurgence since the mid-2010s:
  • SiriusXM has had a dedicated Yacht Rock Radio channel (Channel 15) for years, playing 24/7 smooth soft rock hits.
  • iHeartRadio offers a similar streaming station.

Live acts like Yacht Rock Revue continue touring successfully, and social media (TikTok, Instagram) keeps introducing the sound to younger listeners.  But in early 2026, it crossed over into full-time local FM/AM formats, which is new and noteworthy. 

Key launches include:
  • KZOT (Yacht Rock 1180) in Omaha, Nebraska — spun off from weekend programming on an Adult Hits sister station, going full Yacht Rock.
  • WINX-FM (94.3 Dockside Radio) on Maryland’s Eastern Shore — blending Yacht Rock with Jimmy Buffett-style trop-rock and coastal country for a "beach town" vibe.
  • At least one or two others flipped around New Year's, creating a mini-wave of stations embracing the format.
This comes as classic hits stations shift toward 1990s music, leaving a gap for 1970s/early 1980s soft rock. Yacht Rock fills that niche with nostalgic appeal for older listeners while feeling fresh and escapist for others—especially post-pandemic vibes favoring chill, feel-good sounds.

CRB's Humanitarian Award To Honor Jelly Roll


Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has announced that Jelly Roll has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Artist Humanitarian Award. This recognition honors the triple Grammy-winning artist's profound and authentic dedication to addiction recovery, mental health advocacy, and community support, efforts that extend well beyond his chart-topping music career.

The award will be presented during the Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2026, scheduled for March 18-20 in Nashville.

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, has become a leading voice in these areas through personal initiatives and direct action. His work includes raising significant funds—such as $500,000 for ACM Lifting Lives—and making substantial donations, including $250,000 to establish a recording studio for teenagers at the Davidson County Juvenile Detention Center. He has also announced plans to develop a 100-acre free rehabilitation campus offering programs ranging from traditional 28-day recovery support to intensive mental health therapy and community-building opportunities for those in long-term recovery. 

Additionally, he has served as a co-chair for initiatives like Mobilize Recovery's Campus Surge and frequently visits prisons and juvenile facilities to share messages of hope, redemption, and breaking cycles of addiction.

Established in 1990, the Artist Humanitarian Award celebrates country artists whose philanthropic contributions have meaningfully enhanced the impact and effectiveness of the causes they champion. Past honorees include prominent names such as Eric Church, Luke Combs, Kane Brown, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, and Carrie Underwood.

This year's selection underscores Jelly Roll's unique ability to leverage his platform and personal experiences to drive real change, making him a fitting addition to the award's distinguished legacy.

Radio History: Feb 17


➦In 1908...Walter Lanier "Red" Barber born (died October 22, 1992 at age 82).  Barber was a sports commentator, nicknamed "The Ol' Redhead", was primarily identified with radio broadcasts of Major League Baseball, calling play-by-play across four decades with the Cincinnati Reds (1934–1938), Brooklyn Dodgers (1939–1953), and New York Yankees (1954–1966). Like his fellow sports pioneer Mel Allen, Barber also gained a niche calling college and professional American football in his primary market of New York City.

Red Barber 1934
Barber was born in Columbus, Mississippi. The family moved to Sanford, Florida in 1929, and at the age of 21, he hitchhiked to Gainesville and enrolled at the University of Florida, majoring in education. It was there in January 1930 that Barber got his start in broadcasting.

An agriculture professor had been scheduled to appear on WRUF, the university radio station, to read a scholarly paper over the air. When the professor's absence was discovered minutes before the broadcast was to begin, Barber, who working as a janitor, was called in as a substitute. It was thus that the future sportscaster's first gig was reading "Certain Aspects of Bovine Obstetrics". After those few minutes in front of a microphone, Barber decided to switch careers. He became WRUF's director and chief announcer and covered Florida football games that autumn. Then he dropped out of school to focus on his radio work. After four more years at WRUF he landed a job broadcasting the Cincinnati Reds on WLW and WSAI when Powel Crosley, Jr., purchased the team in 1934.

Joe Kearns
➦In 1947...The US government’s Voice of America began shortwave transmissions to the Soviet Union.  It targeted the Soviet citizens in Russia under the pretext of countering "more harmful instances of Soviet propaganda directed against American leaders and policies". The Soviet Union responded by initiating electronic jamming of VOA broadcasts on April 24, 1949.

➦In 1962...actor Joseph Kearns, one of bigtime radio’s busiest regulars, best remembered as Mr. Wilson in TV’s Dennis the Menace, died after a cerebral hemorrhage at age 55.   He was The Man in Black in the early years of CBS Radio’s ‘Suspense,’ and played Ed the security guard for Jack Benny’s underground vault.  Kearns joined the staff of radio station KSL in Salt Lake City in 1930 remaining there until 1936 when he moved to Los Angeles, where found regular work in network radio.

➦In 1972...after getting their hands on some stolen tapes Los Angeles radio station KDAY played two unreleased Rolling Stones songs non-stop for 18 hours. The outraged Stones got a cease-and-desist court order the next day. The tapes were stolden from the home of producer Marshall Chess home.

➦In 1979…after five years airing locally on Minnesota Public Radio, Garrison Keillor‘s variety show “A Prairie Home Companion” was first broadcast nationally as part of NPR’s “Folk Festival America.”  It's first local radio broadcast on Minnesota Public Radio in 1974.

➦In 1991…Radio Personality Gary Gears died from a heart attack at age 46.

Gary Gears AFVN 1968
Gary Gears may have had one of the best voices of all. According to Jeff Roteman's WLS Tribute website, The "Big G" joined WLS in 1971 after a brief stop at WCFL. Gary started at the Big 89 doing the 1-5 am overnight shift. By 1972, Gary had moved to middays working 9 til 12 noon replacing Joel Sebastian. In 1973, Gary was replaced by J.J. Jeffrey.

Gary Gears spent time at the legendary KOIL in Omaha before joining and serving in the US Armed Services. Gary was heard on AFVN radio in Vietnam. After his time in the service, Gary went to KQV in Pittsburgh from Minneapolis St Paul. After leaving Pittsburgh , Gary spent most of his career in Chicago at legendary stations WCFL, WLS and many others including  WDAI, WIND, WJEZ, WJJD, WKQX, WMAQ and WRQX.  He also spent time at CHUM in Toronto.

Monday, February 16, 2026

TFN: Savannah Guthrie Steps Away From TODAY


Savannah Guthrie will remain off the "Today" show for the foreseeable future as the desperate search for her 84-year-old mother, Nancy Guthrie, continues into its 15th day with no resolution or arrests.

The "Today" co-anchor, 54, is staying in Tucson, Arizona, to support the ongoing investigation into her mother's disappearance, which authorities are treating as a kidnapping. Nancy Guthrie was last seen at her home in the Catalina Foothills area on Jan. 31, 2026, and was reported missing the next day after failing to appear for a planned church service. 

Investigators believe she was taken against her will in the early morning hours of Feb. 1, with evidence including doorbell camera footage showing a masked suspect wearing an Ozark Trail backpack, bloodstains confirmed to be hers, and DNA recovered from her property belonging to someone not in close contact with her or her family.

Meanwhile, Investigators now believe that the abduction of 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie was likely the result of a botched burglary rather than a premeditated kidnapping, according to sources close to the case. An unnamed insider in the investigation told AZFamily that the incident appears to have been a burglary that went wrong. Experts who analyzed doorbell camera footage in recent days had already indicated it did not look like a planned abduction. The same source added that there is a widespread belief among investigators that Nancy Guthrie may still be alive. The search for the Tucson-area resident has entered its 15th day, with authorities awaiting results from multiple DNA tests, including from a vehicle towed in connection to the case.

MLB's Changing RSN Model To Impact Talks With Players Union


The accelerating collapse of Major League Baseball's regional sports network (RSN) model is delivering major short-term revenue losses for many teams, often in the tens of millions of dollars, and will heavily influence upcoming labor negotiations between MLB and the Players Association.

All nine MLB clubs previously partnered with FanDuel Sports Network (operated by cash-strapped Main Street Sports Group) have terminated their deals amid missed rights payments and the company's financial distress. Eight teams, the Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, Tampa Bay Rays, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Angels have shifted to MLB's in-house media operation, which handles local game production and distribution (often via streaming on the MLB app, with some local cable arrangements).

Newsmax CEO Threatens To Sue The FCC


Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy has threatened to sue the FCC if it raises or eliminates the national television broadcast ownership cap to allow major mergers like the proposed Nexstar-Tegna deal.

The 39% cap , a long-standing rule set by Congress that limits any single company from owning TV stations reaching more than 39% of U.S. households, is at the center of the dispute. Ruddy, testifying before the Senate Commerce Committee last week, called any FCC attempt to bypass or change this limit a "blatant violation of congressional law." 

He stated he is "prepared to litigate the matter," arguing it would enable massive consolidation, reduce competition, threaten viewpoint diversity, and allow a few corporations to dominate local news.The threat stems from ongoing FCC considerations under Trump-appointed Chair Brendan Carr, amid pressure for the $6.2 billion Nexstar-Tegna merger, which would exceed the cap and create the largest U.S. TV station group. 

Remaining WaPo Staffers Said To Be Demoralized


Washington Post publisher and CEO Will Lewis resigned abruptly on February 7, just three days after the newspaper announced devastating layoffs cutting about one-third of its staff (more than 300 journalists). His exit capped a tumultuous two-year tenure marked by financial struggles, controversial initiatives, and widespread newsroom anger.

The layoffs eliminated the entire sports section, photography staff, and significant portions of local D.C./metro and international coverage. 

Former executive editor Marty Baron described it as one of the "darkest days" in the Post's history, while the Washington Post Guild called Lewis's legacy the "attempted destruction of a great American journalism institution."

Lewis's final days were described in Puck News as "more cowardly and craven than even the newsroom imagined." 

Report: FBI Gathered Intel On 1,000 Journalists


A confidential January 2026 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report has revealed that the FBI conducted warrantless "assessments" on more than 1,000 individuals and groups, including dozens of journalists and news media members, over 100 religious organizations and leaders, and more than 500 public officials and political candidates, often without any evidence of criminal wrongdoing.

These assessments, a low-level investigative tool that requires no factual predicate or warrant, spanned 2018 to 2024 (covering parts of both the Trump and Biden administrations). They allowed the FBI to use methods such as physical surveillance, confidential informants, subpoenas to electronic communications services, and purchased data to gather intelligence on Americans not accused of crimes.

The report, obtained exclusively by Racket News and described as closely guarded (with instructions to destroy after use), highlights that of roughly 127,000 total assessments opened and closed in that period, only about 14% advanced to full investigations. Critics describe the practice as fishing expeditions that risk infringing on First Amendment protections.

R.I.P.: Jerry Kennedy, Nashville Guitarist, Iconic Record Producer

Jerry Kennedy (1940-2026)

Jerry Kennedy, the influential Nashville guitarist, record producer, and executive whose signature guitar work and productions shaped countless country and crossover hits in the 1960s and 1970s, died February 11, 2026, in hospice care in Franklin, Tennessee. He was 85. 

His death from congestive heart failure was confirmed by his son, Gordon Kennedy.

Kennedy's iconic contributions included the memorable opening riff on Roy Orbison's "Oh, Pretty Woman" (1964), the twangy intro to Tammy Wynette's "Stand By Your Man" (1968), and the distinctive dobro on Jeannie C. Riley's "Harper Valley P.T.A." (1968). 

As a top session player in Nashville's A-Team, he also played on Elvis Presley's "Good Luck Charm" (1962), Bob Dylan's Blonde on Blonde album (1966), and numerous other classics.

As a producer and Mercury Records' Nashville head from 1969 to 1984, Kennedy launched and guided major careers. He produced Roger Miller's breakthrough smashes like "Dang Me" (1964), "Chug-a-Lug," and the Grammy-winning "King of the Road" (1965). He transformed Jerry Lee Lewis's career with country hits such as "Another Place, Another Time" (1968) and "What's Made Milwaukee Famous (Has Made a Loser Out of Me)" (1968). Kennedy also produced Tom T. Hall's string of #1s, including "A Week in a Country Jail" (1970), "The Year That Clayton Delaney Died" (1971), "(Old Dogs, Children and) Watermelon Wine" (1973), and "I Love" (1974); Reba McEntire's early #1 "Can't Even Get the Blues" (1983); Johnny Rodriguez's debut "Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through)" (1972); and multiple albums for The Statler Brothers.


Born August 10, 1940, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Kennedy grew up performing on the Louisiana Hayride and moved to Nashville in 1960. He earned four Grammy Awards as a producer, was an inaugural inductee into the Musicians Hall of Fame (with its theater named in his honor), and later co-founded JK Productions in 1984. His legacy endures through his influence on the Nashville Sound and his sons—Gordon, Bryan, and Shelby—all active in music.

Vatican OKs Beatification of R/TV Pioneer Fulton Sheen


The Vatican has once again approved the beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, the renowned U.S. radio and television evangelist whose journey toward sainthood was previously stalled by a prolonged legal dispute over his remains and later by questions regarding his handling of clergy sexual abuse cases during his time as bishop.

Following a thorough six-year investigation into those concerns, the Vatican's Dicastery for the Causes of Saints has cleared the path forward. The Diocese of Peoria announced on February 9, 2026, that the beatification—originally planned for Peoria, Illinois—can now proceed as intended.

No specific date for the ceremony, which would declare Sheen "Blessed" and represent the final major step before potential canonization, has been set yet. Diocese officials are coordinating with the Vatican to finalize details.

The Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV. Sheen, a pioneering broadcaster who brought Catholic teachings to millions in the mid-20th century, was declared Venerable in 2012, and a miracle attributed to his intercession was approved in 2019.

Good Morning! Let's Check The Pulse for Monday, Feb 16

 


Radio Broadcasting

FCC's Upcoming Open Commission Meeting Agenda:  Wednesday includes key items for radio-related services, which features proposals directly tied to radio broadcasting. Notably: A Public Notice seeking comment on limiting applications (proposed cap of 10 per entity) and eligibility rules for the upcoming 2026 filing window for new Noncommercial Educational (NCE) reserved band FM translator stations (Channels 201-220). This is the first-ever such window for new NCE reserved band FM translators, which could expand coverage for noncommercial stations but with restrictions to prevent filing abuses. This directly affects FM translator growth, often used by both commercial and noncommercial broadcasters to extend signals. Other agenda items like 900 MHz band reforms (for broadband/private wireless) and intercarrier compensation changes could indirectly influence radio operations through spectrum and interconnection rules.

Media Industry

Intensifying Debate Over Broadcast Media Ownership Rules:  The national television ownership cap (limiting one entity to reaching no more than 39% of U.S. TV households) remains a flashpoint. A recent Senate Commerce Committee hearing (early February) featured testimony from NAB President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt arguing that outdated rules hinder local broadcasters' ability to compete with streaming giants and Big Tech, invest in journalism, and sustain operations. NAB continues pushing FCC Chairman Brendan Carr to lift or relax the cap, especially amid potential mergers like Nexstar/TEGNA that could exceed it. Critics (including some cable/news voices) defend the rule for preserving competition and diversity. This directly impacts TV broadcasters' consolidation prospects, local news viability, and retransmission consent negotiations.

Political Pressure on Tech Platforms and News Aggregation:  Apple News faces escalating scrutiny from Trump administration officials pushing for more "MAGA-sympathetic" content in its app, ending a perceived "honeymoon" period. This highlights broader tensions between Big Tech media distributors and political influences, raising questions about algorithmic curation, content moderation, and potential antitrust or regulatory responses. Related digital media stories include Meta's reported plans for facial-recognition in smart glasses and ongoing AI/privacy settlements (e.g., Oracle).

U-S News

Europeans Push Back Against U.S. Claims of 'Civilizational Erasure:  EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas strongly rejected recent U.S. assertions (including from Trump administration figures) that Europe faces cultural or civilizational decline due to policies or external influences. This comes amid tensions at the Munich Security Conference, where Secretary of State Marco Rubio struck a somewhat reassuring but firm tone on reshaping trans-Atlantic relations. The debate highlights strains in U.S.-Europe alliances, with Kallas calling out "fashionable euro-bashing" and emphasizing global respect for European values.

Concerns Over Growing Autocracy in the U.S.:  Scholars and analysts express deepening worries that the country has slid toward autocracy. or may already be there, following a year of Trump administration actions. NPR reports highlight erosion of democratic norms, including expanded executive powers, immigration crackdowns, and reduced oversight, fueling national debate on the state of American democracy.

Tyler Reddick wins the Daytona 500 in dramatic fashion: Tyler Reddick delivered a thrilling, chaotic victory in the season-opening NASCAR Cup Series race at Daytona International Speedway. Driving for Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing team, Reddick pulled off a buzzer-beater move on the final lap to secure the win—marking a major milestone for Jordan in NASCAR. This has been celebrated as a "buzzer beater befitting of his boss" across major outlets.

Reports: WBD Considers Reopening Talks With Paramount+


Warner Bros. Discovery is considering reopening merger talks with Paramount Skydance, according to reports from Bloomberg, The New York Times, Variety, and other sources.

The company's board is weighing whether to re-engage after Paramount submitted an amended, sweetened bid last week. This comes despite Warner Bros. Discovery's existing agreement to sell its studios and streaming business (including Warner Bros. Pictures, HBO, and Max) to Netflix.

Key details on the deals:
  • In December 2025, Warner Bros. Discovery agreed to a deal with Netflix valued at about $83 billion enterprise value (around $72 billion equity), with the latest amendment making it all-cash at $27.75 per share (subject to adjustments). This involves spinning off WBD's cable networks as "Discovery Global" separately.
  • Paramount Skydance has pursued a full acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery for $30 per share all-cash, valuing it at around $108 billion including debt. Its latest offer (the ninth in the saga) did not raise the per-share price but added sweeteners: covering WBD's $2.8 billion termination fee to Netflix if the Netflix deal ends, plus a "ticking fee" of about 25 cents per share quarterly (roughly $650 million per quarter) starting in 2027 until closing, signaling confidence in quick regulatory approval.

FCC Commissioners Differ On Broadcast Ownership


FCC Commissioners Olivia Trusty (Republican) and Anna M. Gomez (Democrat) have expressed sharply differing views on the FCC's ongoing review and potential relaxation of broadcast ownership rules. These rules limit how many radio and TV stations (or national reach) a single entity can own, aiming to promote competition, localism, viewpoint diversity, and prevent excessive media consolidation.

The FCC is in the midst of its 2022 Quadrennial Regulatory Review (required every four years under the Telecommunications Act of 1996), examining rules like local radio ownership caps (e.g., limits on stations per owner in a market), local TV ownership limits, the national TV audience reach cap (currently 39% of U.S. households), and the dual network rule. Broadcasters often argue for deregulation to better compete with streaming giants and digital platforms amid declining ad revenue.


Commissioner Olivia Trusty's Position:  Trusty supports modernizing (and likely easing or removing) these outdated rules to help broadcasters stay competitive. She emphasizes empowering local stations to attract viewers, generate revenue, and reinvest in newsgathering and operations. In a February 2026 Brookings event and other statements, she described the FCC's efforts as creating a "dynamic, vibrant, and competitive" media ecosystem that supports local news without unnecessary regulatory barriers. She views deregulation as a way to boost competition rather than hinder it.


Commissioner Anna M. Gomez's Position:  Gomez, the lone Democrat on the Commission, strongly opposes broad deregulation and consolidation. She warns that fewer owners lead to fewer independent voices, reduced local perspectives, and diminished editorial diversity—ultimately harming consumers and communities. In speeches (e.g., at the State of the Net Conference in February 2026) and statements, she compares potential outcomes to the "hollowing out" of local newspapers through consolidation, cost-cutting, and distant decision-making.

She argues for targeted, market-specific policies to address streaming competition and ad revenue shifts without sacrificing local ownership or public interest goals. Gomez stresses that the 39% national TV ownership cap is statutory law (set by Congress), not something the FCC can simply waive. She has expressed concerns that large media companies, dependent on FCC approvals, face pressure to align content with regulatory favor, and that consolidation could exacerbate declines in local journalism.

NAB Show 2026 AI Focused For Radio


Artificial intelligence will dominate discussions at NAB Show 2026, the broadcast industry's premier event, as organizers unveil programming heavily focused on AI's transformative impact on radio operations, programming, and monetization for AM/FM stations—especially in smaller and medium markets.

The Small and Medium Market Radio Forum, now rescheduled to Sunday, April 19 to align with the arrival of the broader broadcast community, kicks off with a dedicated AI panel. 

Titled around how artificial intelligence is reshaping station operations in markets 51 and beyond, the session will be moderated by Julie Koehn, President of Lenawee Broadcasting Company and Southeast Michigan Media. Panelists include Sun Sachs, SVP of Digital Products at Townsquare Media, and David Oxenford, media attorney at Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP.

Following the AI-focused opener, the forum transitions to peer-driven roundtables tailored specifically for smaller-market operators. 

Americans And News: It's Complicated


Americans have a complicated, often conflicted relationship with the news, according to a major new study from the Pew Research Center's Pew-Knight Initiative. While most U.S. adults view staying informed as a vital civic duty—especially for making informed voting decisions—many simultaneously feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information, skeptical of sources, and highly selective in what they consume.

The survey of 3,560 U.S. adults (conducted December 8–14, 2025) reveals a core tension: Eight-in-ten Americans believe people have a responsibility to be informed when voting, yet far fewer see regularly following the news as extremely or very important in everyday life. About half say they can remain adequately informed even without actively seeking out news.


News consumption habits split evenly between active and passive approaches. Roughly equal shares of adults report that they mostly seek out news intentionally versus letting it come to them incidentally (through social media, notifications, or conversations). This reflects the modern reality where information floods in from digital platforms, often whether people want it or not.

ASCAP Claims Record Payouts


ASCAP reported record-breaking financial results for 2025, collecting $1.945 billion in revenue—an increase of $110 million, or 6.0%, over 2024—and making $1.759 billion available for royalty distributions to its songwriter, composer, and publisher members, up $63 million, or 3.7%.

This marks the highest revenue and royalty distributions in ASCAP's history.

ASCAP operates debt-free with the lowest overhead rate among U.S. performing rights organizations at 10%, returning 90 cents of every dollar collected to members as royalties without charging commissions or taking profits. As the only major U.S. PRO not owned by private equity or outside investors, its members are the sole beneficiaries of this growth.

Radio History: Feb 16


➦In 1901...American musician, songwriter, singer and orchestra leader Wayne King was born in Savanna, IL.

In early radio of the 1920`s his band was featured in half-hour`remote` broadcasts from Chicago`s Aragon Ballroom.  In the 1930`s he was heard on the networks in weekly half-hour broadcasts for Lady Esther cosmetics, a line he is credited with popularizing.  In the mid-40`s he was a summer replacement for the Jack Benny and Jimmy Durante programs.  The saxophonist and bandleader died July 16, 1985 at age 84.

Charlie McCarthy, Edgar Bergen

➦In 1903...American actor, comedian and radio performer, Edgar Bergen was born (died September 30, 1978 at age 75).    With his little wooden ‘sidekicks’ Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd, he delighted audiences for decades.  He had a featured Sunday evening show first on NBC and then on CBS Radio from 1937 to 1955.  He died in his sleep following a performance in Las Vegas Oct 1 1978 at age 75. He was also the father of actress Candice Bergen.

➦In 1922...WDAF (now Sports KCSP)  was started by the Kansas City Star. The official starting date is open to dispute, because the Star's broadcasting activities pre-dated WDAF.

On February 16, 1922, the Star used WOQ, the station of the Western Radio Company, to broadcast what the newspaper described as a "wireless telephone concert". The Star had just constructed radio studios at its building at 18th and Grand. In that evening's newspaper, the program appeared on the front page:

Courtesy of route56.com

The Star adopted the WDAF call letters May 16, 1922. WDAF bounced around various frequencies, traveling to 750, 730, 680, 820 and 810 kHz. WDAF moved to 610 kHz in 1928, splitting time with station WOQ. WDAF joined the NBC radio network before moving to 610 kHz, running both Red & Blue programs up until 1930, when they became a primary NBC Red affiliate.

It also had become the westernmost affiliate of the NBC Red Network. WDAF retained its NBC affiliation well into the 1960s.

WDAF changed its call letters KCSP on September 23, 2003, after moving the longtime country music format to the FM. Entercom still maintains the WDAF-FM call letters at 106.5. Today KCSP airs Sports Talk.

➦In 1929...KGIO changed call letters to KID-AM in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

The station was first licensed under the call letters KGIO, and began broadcasting on December 3, 1928 on a frequency of 1320 kHz.  On February 16, 1929, the call was changed to KID, and the station began broadcasting under this call.  The station had moved to 1350 kHz by 1942 (likely in the March 29, 1941 changes, pursuant to the North American Radio Broadcasting Agreement, that saw many stations raise frequency by 10 to 30 kHz), where it stayed for several years.  In 1950, the station changed from 1350 to its current 590 kHz frequency.

Today the station is owned by Townsquare Media and airs a News/Talk format at 590 AM.

Sonny & Cher
➦In 1935...Salvatore Phillip "Sonny" Bono born (died in a skiing accident January 5, 1998 at age 62).  A talented songwriter and astute businessman, the multi-talented Sonny was, was, if not a great singer, then definitely an entertainer … I Got You Babe, Baby Don’t Go, The Beat Goes On. On TV, he co-starred in The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour.  After show biz he became mayor of Palm Springs, CA, then a U.S. Congressman.