Milwaukee Radio: iHM Flips WRNW From CHR To Sports

iHeartMedia/Milwaukee announced today the debut of the new WRNW 97.3 The Game, Sports Talk That Rocks.

97.3 The Game will broadcast the latest local and national sports news and feature some of the most recognized and respected names and voices in Milwaukee sports. The program lineup will include Drew Olson, former Brewers beat writer and Milwaukee radio host; Ted Davis, the voice of the Milwaukee Bucks; Dan Needles, Sports Director at WISN-TV; Dario Melendez from Fox Sports Wisconsin; Bob Brainerd from Spectrum Sports; Kevin Brandt (KB), longtime Milwaukee morning show personality; and Mike Heller, veteran Wisconsin broadcaster and a voice of Wisconsin Badger sports.

“Sports talk in Milwaukee is about to change,” said Tim Scott, Program Director for 97.3 The Game and The BIG 1070 AM in Madison. “Milwaukee is more than just a great sports town and 97.3 The Game will reflect that.”

97.3 THE GAME will be Milwaukee’s exclusive FM home for University of Wisconsin Badgers sports play by play as well as the NFL postseason and Super Bowl 53.

97.3 The Game will be paired with sister station The Big 920 AM which will feature Mike Lucas in the Morning, national sports hosts Dan Patrick, Colin Cowherd, Rich Eisen and FOX Sports Radio. The Big 920 AM will also continue to be the home for the Milwaukee Admirals, NFL, NCAA tournament, High School sports and NASCAR. University of Wisconsin sports will be featured on both 97.3 The Game and The Big 920 AM including football, men’s basketball, and hockey.

WRNW 97.3 FM (15.5 Kw) Red=54dBu Coverage Area

Full Programming Lineup:

• Drew and KB 6 a.m. – 10 a.m.
• The Crossover with Dan Needles and Ted Davis 10 a.m. – Noon
• The Double Team with Dario Melendez and Bob Brainerd Noon – 2 p.m.
• The Mike Heller Show 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

The switch comes less than a month after Good Karma Brands, the new owner of WTMJ 620 AM and WKTI 94.5 FM, flipped the latter from country music to all-sports. Since Nov. 1, WKTI has been rebranded as ESPN FM, simulcasting programming airing on Good Karma's other Milwaukee radio station, all-sports WAUK 540 AM.

The Game makes six Milwaukee radio stations dominated by sports content (including WTMJ, which carries Brewers, Packers and Bucks games along with nighttime sports talk). Also in the mix are WOKY-AM (920), also owned by iHeart, and WSSP-AM (1250).

Seacrest, Harvey Among Highest-Paid TV Talk Hosts

Judge Judy

For the first year ever, Judy Sheindlin—more commonly known as Judge Judy—reigns supreme not only in her own courtroom, but also across all of television. According to the latest Forbes list of Highest-Pair Talk Show Hosts, she pocketed $147 million pretax last year out-earning all others.

The sharp-talking daytime judge takes the top spot thanks to her even sharper deal-making skills: Last year she sold the rights to her Judge Judy’s 5,200-episode library, as well as future episodes of the show, to CBS for an estimated $100 million. Between that paycheck and the $47 million she gets for hosting Judge Judy and producing Hot Bench, Sheindlin took in triple her typical annual paycheck. With that added to her bank account, she also became 48th-richest self-made woman in America, with a net worth of $400 million.

While nighttime cable news hosts like Tucker Carlson and Rachel Maddow may get more media attention, daytime broadcast series boast the eyeballs—and thus pay the big money.

Ryan Seacrest

Steve Harvey

Judge Judy consistently garners more than 10 million daily viewers in its 23rd season, while Dr. Phil, hosted by Phil McGraw, garners nearly 4 million viewers. To compare, Fox News’ Sean Hannity only averages 3.3 million, while MSNBC’s Maddow averages 2.9 million. 

Because it takes so long to build such a loyal, large audience, it isn’t surprising that the list of Highest-Paid Talk Show Hosts does not vary much year-to-year. Still, new gigs can lead to a pretty big cash jump. Ryan Seacrest, who hosts Live with Kelly and Ryan, saw his earnings leap from $58 million to $74 million this year thanks to his eight-figure check for hosting the revived American Idol.  DeGeneres’ income also climbed thanks to a $20 million check from Netflix for a single stand-up special.

The Top Five Highest-Paid Talk Hosts Are:

1. Judy Sheindlin: $147,000,000
2. Ellen DeGeneres: $87,500,000
3. Dr. Phil McGraw: $77,500,000
4. Ryan Seacrest: $74,000,000
5. Steve Harvey: $44,000,000

Columbia SC Radio: Robyn Simone To Program WLXC

Robyn Simone

Cumulus Media announces that it has appointed radio programming professional Robyn Simone as Program Director for Urban AC radio station WLXC KISS 103.1 FM in Columbia, SC.

Simone’s 15-year radio broadcasting career includes 10 years with Radio One (Urban One) as Assistant Program Director/Radio Personality in markets including Detroit, MI, and Cleveland, OH. The appointment is effective December 10, 2018.

Rick Prusator, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Media-Columbia, said: “After a long search, we have found the perfect person to lead KISS 103.1 in Columbia and take the station to the next level. Robyn Simone has the leadership and on-air skills we need, plus she has local experience and ties to Columbia that give her a deep understanding of the market and our listeners.”

WLXC 103.1 FM (6 Kw) Red=60dBu Coverage Area

Simone said: 'I'm humbled and thankful for the opportunity to be back in Columbia, SC. I'm even more thrilled with the new journey I'm taking with Cumulus. Coming from one heritage station to another, community is very important and I plan to embrace the wonderful city of Columbia. I'm excited to work with the KISS 103.1 family and I look forward to much success.”

Trump Proposes USA TV Network

President Trump on Monday suggested the government start its own television network as he voiced frustration with the way CNN in particular has covered his administration, according to The Hill.

"Throughout the world, CNN has a powerful voice portraying the United States in an unfair and false way. Something has to be done, including the possibility of the United States starting our own Worldwide Network to show the World the way we really are, GREAT!" Trump wrote on Twitter.

Voice of America (VOA) has existed since 1942 and receives funding from Congress. The network's broadcasts are streamed in the U.S. and internationally.

While CNN doesn’t do great in the United States based on ratings, outside of the U.S. they have very little competition. Throughout the world, CNN has a powerful voice portraying the United States in an unfair....

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 26, 2018

Trump's background in television prior to entering politics led to reports during the 2016 presidential campaign that he would start his own television network if he lost to Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

He has in recent months ratcheted up his attacks against the press, labeling some outlets and reporters "enemies of the people."

Trump has had a contentious relationship with CNN in particular since hitting the campaign trail in 2015. Chants of "CNN sucks" are commonplace at the president's campaign rallies.

The White House earlier this month revoked CNN correspondent Jim Acosta's press credentials following a heated press conference with Trump.

CNN and Acosta sued the administration for violating the reporter's First and Fifth Amendment rights, and a federal judge ordered the White House to restore his credentials.

'Last Man Standing' Syndie Ratings Soar

Two months into the fall season and syndicated TV shows -- like those of broadcast network TV programming -- are showing few, if any, gains.

From September 3 through November 11, industry leader “Judge Judy,” from CBS Television Distribution, is showing flat results versus the same period the year before, averaging 9.83 million Nielsen-measured total viewers.

CBS’ “Wheel of Fortune” -- the second-ranked overall syndicated show -- is up 1% to 9.43 million. The “Wheel” companion game show “Jeopardy” is next, down 1% to 9.13 million. In fourth place overall, “Family Feud,” distributed by Twentieth Television, is off 4% to 9.09 million.

Warner Bros.' “The Big Bang Theory” remains in its top spot among off-network sitcoms at 6.57 million, down 11% versus the same two-month period of a year ago.

Rocketing up the ranks in the off-network area is “Last Man Standing,” boosted by its revival this season on the Fox network with new first-run episodes in prime time. The show, distributed by Twentieth Television, is up a big 43% to 3.2 million viewers. The show was previously on ABC.

CBS’ “Inside Edition” has moved up the ranks as the top entertainment magazine show, edging past the network's “Entertainment Tonight. “Inside Edition” is 1% higher to 4.26 million viewers; “Entertainment Tonight” is down 6% to 4.16 million viewers.

Big talk shows are all down as well.

CBS’ “Dr. Phil" lost 16% to 3.89 million viewers; Warner Bros’ “Ellen Degeneres” fell 6% to 2.89 million, while Disney-ABC Domestic Television’s “Live with Kelly & Ryan” gave up 6% to 2.85 million.

Baltimore Radio: WBAL-AM Adds FM-Translator Simulcast

Newsradio WBAL 1090 AM in Blatimore has launched an FM simulcast on translator W268BA FM 101.5.

“While WBAL Radio will continue to serve Maryland at 1090AM with our powerful 50,000 watt signal, our new FM signal at 101.5 is a monumental advancement for the region’s most influential radio station,” according to Cary Pahigian, the station’s President and General Manager. “FM 101.5, along with our popular mobile app, will help WBAL connect with significantly more listeners. WBAL is now available on every available broadcast, mobile and digital platform.”

W268BA 101.5 FM (50 watts) Red=60dBu Coverage Area

WBAL will continue to be carried on WIYY 97.9 FM HD2. Listeners can also hear the station’s programming on WBAL.com, the WBAL mobile app, Amazon Alexa, Google Home and TuneIn.com.

Founded in 1925, WBAL is among the nation’s most honored news radio stations. It’s received several regional Edward R. Murrow awards, and three national Murrow awards for its news coverage. Since 1935, WBAL has been owned by Hearst.

WBAL 1090 AM (50 Kw, DA-N) Red=Daytime 2 mV/m contour

Hearst Television owns and operates local television and radio stations. Including WBAL, 98 Rock and WBAL-TV 11, its stations serve 26 markets across 39 states reaching over 21 million U.S. television households.

Sheridan Broadcasting Names Leroy Jones Jr As President

Leroy Jones Jr.

Pittsburgh-based Sheridan Broadcasting Corporation has announced the appointment of  25-year political vet Leroy Jones Jr. President of Sheridan Radio and Digital.

In this new role, Jones will oversee development of new digital, video, mobile and social media content. Previously, Jones served as a legislative aide in the Senate and Congress and worked for the D.C. publication The Hill before a stint in the White House during the Clinton administration.

COO Ron Davenport Jr. said, "We are excited that Leroy has taken on this expanded role with Sheridan Broadcasting Corp. Leroy is committed to serving as the guiding force behind our new digital video and audio platform, which will include independently and originally created content for Sheridan. Additionally, he will be helping us explore possible joint ventures and partnerships, and maximize relationships with our sponsor brands and listening and viewing audiences. Everyone who knows Leroy or who comes in contact with him understands it is his passion and commitment to getting the job done that will ensure the vitality and continued success of our company."

Jones added, "I'm thrilled to be taking this new role with SBC during such a transformative period. I can't think of a more exciting professional opportunity to tackle. SBC has a rich history and amazing brands, and I look forward to being a vital team member by equipping this company to compete throughout the remainder of this century."

Sheridan Broadcasting Corp. (SBC) is one of the nation's oldest Black broadcasters and has been in operation since 1972.

Knoxville Radio: Kimberly Parker New GSM For Country WIVK

Kimberly Parker

Cumulus Media announces that it has appointed media sales professional Kimberly Parker as General Sales Manager for WIVK 107.7 FM  in Knoxville, TN. Parker was previously VP of Advertising for the Las Vegas Media Group.

Ken Salyer, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Media-Knoxville, said: “We are delighted to have Kimberly join our team. She has an extensive background in advertising and marketing, and has successfully led media sales organizations across the country. Her leadership style, Knoxville roots and history at WIVK make her an ideal candidate to lead our sales team.”

Parker said: “It’s great to be back in Knoxville. This is my home. I know the wonderful history and significance of WIVK in East Tennessee and I am honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to work with this talented and well-established staff.”

Parker, proud mother of two sons and a Vol for life, added: “I look forward to networking with local businesses and community leaders as we continue to extend the WIVK brand through traditional and digital platforms.”

NBC To Reduce Ad Load

NBCUniversal plans further commercial load cuts and less reliance on “legacy” measurement, reports MediaPost.

“Our industry faces an exciting inflection point, we must go even further,” says Linda Yaccarino, chairman of advertising and client partnerships, NBCUniversal, in an end-of-year memo sent to staffers.

In March, NBC said it would reduce its prime-time commercial ad loads by 10% across its networks and its average length of commercial breaks by 20%.

Linda Yaccarino

“People love our premium content and trust our family of networks. We must honor their experience as we design better ways to engage with brands. That’s why we’ll continue to reduce time and clutter and expand Prime Pods across the portfolio.”

This season, NBC started one-minute Prime Pods, which began airing in the 50 top shows on NBCU’s broadcast and cable networks this season.

Also, Yaccarino says: “We’re going to lessen our reliance on legacy measurement. Instead, we’ll continue to invest in measurement that focuses on audiences and business outcomes, including scaling CFlight across our entire portfolio.”

CFlight was introduced last season. It expands NBC’s guarantees in covering advertisers’ entire campaigns on its platforms -- beyond standard industry metrics of C3 or C7, the average minute commercial ratings plus three or seven days of time-shifted viewing.

NBC will continue to build advertiser platforms for “mass reach and targeted audiences,” part of its effort in starting ROI programs for direct-to-consumer businesses.

Bay Area Radio: Former KGO Host Missing After Driving Off In Rental

Former KGO-810 radio broadcaster Ray Taliaferro, who remains missing after last being seen Nov. 10 in Paducah, Kentucky, drove away from his wife in a rental car, a new report says.

According to mercurynews.com, Taliaferro and his wife of six months were in Kentucky looking at property she had inherited, KRON-4 reported. His wife told police that at one point she turned around and Taliaferro had driven off in their rental car. Various reports said he was last seen six hours later and 12 miles away in Paducah, talking to the manager of the Mellow Mushroom pizza restaurant, part of an Atlanta-based chain.

Both the Massac County Sheriff’s Department in Illinois, which is leading the missing-person investigation, and the Paducah City Police Department told this news organization that they are continuing to search for the longtime San Francisco resident.



Here are some things to know about Taliaferro and the search for him:

• A family spokesperson confirmed that Taliaferro still has a residence in San Francisco but is currently living in Illinois.
• As of Sunday, Taliaferro’s son, Raphael, told this news outlet that he had been in touch with authorities but had no updates by the end of the weekend.
• Former KGO colleague Brian Copeland tweeted that “Ray has been battling dementia for a while so he may not be certain where he is.”
• He had served as president of the San Francisco Arts Commission, Leukemia Society and the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP.
• KGO colleague John Rothman told this newspaper that “millions of people spent the night with Ray Taliaferro Monday through Friday 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. You couldn’t miss Ray Taliaferro. His wonderful commitment to human rights, his wonderful commitment to San Francisco and his wonderful commitment to people.”
• KRON-4 called him a “legend,” and KGO Radio host Pat Thursday said that Taliaferro had “a heart of gold.”
• In 1967, he became the nation’s first black talk-show host for a major market radio station, at KNEW AM 910.
• He was inducted into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame in 2011.
• Taliaferro joined KGO Radio in 1977 and co-hosted KGO-TV’s AM Weekend program.

Charleston Radio: Z93 Jamz D-J Found Dead

UPDATE 11/28/18 9:00: Charleston Radio: Z93.3 FM Host Apparent Murder Victim. Click Here for updated posting.


Original Posting...

Deputies in Beaufort County, SC  are investigating the discovery of a body was found in Sunday morning.

Nathaniel Scott Jr.

Emergency services responded to a report of a man shot in a wooded area shortly after 4:00 a.m.

When deputies arrived, they located the gunshot victim, secured the area and checked on the condition of the gunshot victim and confirmed he was dead.

The Beaufort County Coroner's Office later identified the gunshot victim as 28-year-old Nathaniel Scott Jr., who is known to DJ for North Charleston radio station WWWZ Z93 Jamz.

Otherwise known as “DJ Tough Love”, he hosted a Saturday night mix on the station.

An autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday