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Current Mailbag - Mailbag Archive Index - DCRTV Front Page - Support DCRTV DCRTV Mailbag - December 12 to December 16, 2004 Latest messages listed first..... \/ December 16 Messages \/ The person that wrote negative things about Stacy Lynn is totally wrong. She is truly a great talent and person. It's Infinity's loss..... (12/16/04) Good Lord, Merry Friggin Christmas. Seems the more time that goes by the more Mix is trying to become the old 102.7 WXYV. I hear Greg Valentine on the air. I saw Josh Speigel having a meeting with Jason Kidd, Now bring back that asswipe Dakota, and Albie Dee and you have once again created a crappy station that sounds like ass and wont last long. (Come on Back in the day they had "Barbie Girl" on 75 spins a week) that was like once every 45 minutes. Keep it up, please. All of us who dont work for Infinity thank you for laying off your personel. Keep digging your graves, the deeper you dig them, the sooner you'll need them. Erik Zink was a good guy, yeah he wore no shoes in the studio but is that a reason to get rid of the guy. Keep up the crappy work! -K (12/16/04) WMET is beating the local bushes for help. Wonder why they didn't run an ad in the DCRTV Classifieds? Anyway, here's the ad from ALLACCESS.COM: Calling All DC-Area Board Ops! Washington's new voice in talk radio, 1160 WMET, is looking for qualified board operators to fill future full and part-time positions at our state-of-the-art downtown studios. Do you have one to two years of experience running an audio console? Do you keep up on the news, love to make hosts and advertisers happy, and live in the DC area? If so, rush your cover letter and resume to jobs@1160wmet.com. No phone calls or faxes, please. 1160 WMET is an equal opportunity employer. (12/16/04) CNN reports on rumors that Apple may be working on a deal with Sirius Satellite Radio to bring satellite radio service to the iPod. Technical hurdles include the difficulty of integrating the Sirius chip set into a device as small as an iPod, but both companies could benefit from such a deal in both publicity and sales. Speculation is that a deal could be announced as soon as the Consumer Electronics Show or at Macworld Expo, both coming up in early January. Sirius, which has been making big moves to try to catch rival XM Satellite Radio, already grabbed headlines by hiring shock-jock Howard Stern and could make waves again by a deal with Apple, the market leader in portable music players. (12/16/04) M.G. I couldn't agree with you more!! Tamara Nelson was a class act and I know she's going to fall on her feet. She's a pro. I'm "okay" with Stacey Lynn getting fired, but that not really the answer to Mix's woes. Firing Stacey was liking putting a band aid over a bullet hole. That entire show needs to go. Same with "That Sports Guy." Steve was better than Paul, but both need to play a smaller market and pay their dues. (12/16/04) Finally... WMAL catches the election wave and takes off like a bat out of hell in the latest trend with numbers that are most definitely records for the recent past -- especially 25-54. Tip o' the hat to Randall and Chris, who can now hold their heads up high in meetings with the other ABC managers who've been doing just as well. (12/16/04) Is it just me or does Michael from ESRTV get on other people's nerves as well? I really enjoy reading your mailbag section, but every time I come across one of his "speculations" it makes me want to hurl. Why can he just not stick to the facts? Does anyone really care what he "thinks" is going on??? He adds very little to your product and comes across as nothing more than a pompous representation of our industry. He should stick to the facts and people might eventually respect him more! Happy Holidays! Scott In PA (12/16/04) Hey Nathan, you should serve those 9-inch Hebrew Nationals with some --- BAM! ---- Dijon mustard. Wonderful flavor! You can also kick it up another notch with some Essence, too. Bon Apetite, Emeril (12/16/04) Infinity suits have been smokin the mistletoe, but to hear that Mark Thoner got fired...yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. I'm shocked, however, about Tamara Nelson - she was awesome in her time slot with Greg Carpenter. Stacy Lynn on the other hand was whiny and just loved the attention aspect of the job. Infinity needs to put Matt Tacka on WLIF in the afternoon slot and find a funny outgoing gal to sit with Greg in the morning....and not Kristie McIntyre! M.G. (12/16/04) "a police transport vehicle is no longer referred to as a 'paddy wagon'... When is this area going to wake up?" Not too soon, from the looks of things. Maybe you should call Joe Madison on WOL and tell him how racially insensitive he is. From an 8/10/04 interview with him in www.blackelectorate.com : "When you are handcuffed and put in a paddy wagon taken to a jail cell, fingerprinted and booked, and have to pay bail to get out, or spend the night, people will ask the question, why did Charlie Rangel get arrested, why did Bobby Rush get arrested?" I'm sure the Black Eagle will understand and embrace your position on 'police PRISONER transport vehicles' (didn't 'police transport vehicles' used to be 'cop cars'?). (12/16/04) Saw this in All Access today: SUSQUEHANA AC WARM/YORK, PA PD/morning co-host KELLY WEST has officially exited the company. Kelly has been with WARM for over 16 years with morning co-host Rick, they were the longest running morning show in Central PA. Hmm, wonder if she is going to afternoons on WLIF? Probably not but just a thought. -Michael (ESRTV) (12/16/04) "Infinity is run by idiotic clowns." ------- And your point is...? Bob K (12/16/04) Not surprised by the firings at Infinty/Baltimore. They've probably just wrapped budgets for 2005 and needed to make some cuts. I'm most surprised Tamara Nelson got axed. She's one of the nicest people I've ever worked with and a damn fine talent. Stofberg seemed to know his stuff, so that's not surprising since Infinity usually keeps the mediocre. Didn't know Lynn or Zink so I can't speak of them. I am very surprised that Mark Thoner was let go. He's been there forever, is a complete waste of space and he has zero social skills. They'll all be replaced with talent from out of the market making half the money. Happy Holidays from Infinity....Hail Satan! (12/16/04) I said it the day he started at Infinity Baltimore, and I'll say it again: Labrozzi is the devil. And Jason Kidd is his Keanu Reeves. - Anonymous (12/16/04) TO THE REDNECK JACKASS WHOSE CRACKHEADED MOTHER CONCEIVED YOU FROM A STRANGER'S JIZZ, I take issue with your anti-semitic remarks, you small -phalliced piece of horse defacation . After you brush your tooth, you can knish my tuchas, and then you can suck my 9" Hebrew National. If you bite, I'm going to pound the living kishka out of you, you fat piece of dreck. Oye Vey's me, Nathan (12/16/04) I remember reading a column once in a trade magazine from a radio employee commenting on a colleague being fired on Thanksgiving Day. This was perhaps 15 years ago, so I'm fuzzy on the details. But being fired on Thanksgiving Day is really low... Bob K (12/16/04) Your silence on this is deafening Dave? Come on, I know this doesn’t fit with your rather biased vision of the FCC as a prude nanny but it’s only fair that you report the news – isn’t it? www.chron.com (12/16/04) Dave's response: Yadda yadda yadda. Snore. You know, I am getting sick of reporting on Michael Powell and his silly FCC...... As the President of a Homeowners Association in Fairfax County, I can tell you how the rule about satellite dishes was explained to me by our lawyer. Remember the history, cable companies were pressuring HOAs to not allow satellite dishes for "aesthetic" reasons. The Supreme Court stepped in and made the correct decision. HOAs can not restrict satellite dishes of with a diameter of less than a pizza box (12 or 16 inches or something like that) attached to the roof (except in historic neighborhoods etc) I, being the "live and let live" kind of President, - and having the Dish Network myself - do not pay too much attention to the matter. But, I see what my and other HOAs are facing. In my neighborhood several people in my neighborhood have 4 or 6 dishes, mounted on their roofs as well as their neighbor's roofs. Also, when the roof gets filled up, certain people start mounting them on fences - their own and not their own! Also, one neighbor had a satellite dish that must have been 5 feet in diameter. When I asked him about it, he mentioned the Supreme Court ruling. I eventually won the argument and he removed it - but not without a lot of attorneys fees on the HOAs part. I get a lot of complaints about satellite dishes. I wish people would mount one or two of the darn things discretely on their own roof and be done with it. (12/16/04) Here's what I think everybody is missing in the DC baseball discussion. While it's true enough that Williams "made a deal" with baseball, even the dumbest third-grader would have known that he didn't have final authority. He chose to keep some of the more troublesome details away from the public and the others who would have to sign off on it. That's very clearly his fault, both for doing it in the dark and for failing to include enough other people in the initial stages to make sure that he was going to come up with a deal that would pass muster. Both he and MLB are idiots for assuming otherwise. The mayor doesn't have the authority to bind the city to anything, and that's common knowlege. The secondary discussion that's going around about the tax issue is worthwhile. The city is a mess, and if they can tax businesses for a stadium they can sure as hell tax them for schools and other more pressing needs. If it's an either/or choice, I don't think there's any contest. Yes, the stadium might attract more investment to the city. But, MLB and its participants are more than capable of bankrolling that stadium. Public financing does nothing but add value to the team when it comes time to sell, and all that added value is going to wind up in the pockets of MLB and/or the team owner. And BTW, kudos to WTOP's suits. Yesterday on "Ask WTOP" somebody asked them about putting baseball on WTOP, and the answer was not just no, but hell no. And that's the way it should be. (12/16/04) I did see the "back and forth" with Jim Vance and George Michael..That's one reason why I like looking at NBC4 team @ 6pm & 11pm. The chemistry is great, they can be funny, and when they get into disagreements, you can tell that the banter isn't staged. I can't say that about any other news team in town.. (12/16/04) Even if I could get a dish, I couldn't anyway, because my condo unit faces to the east and north. So there. Jeff (12/16/04) WeatherNet 4 run by WRC-TV 4 in Washington needs to update its site. The extended forecast for the past few days has remained the same ----this is irresponsible especially in light of the discussion of impossible weather doom this weekend. Get with it News 4! Update your extended forecast. (12/16/04) Hi Dave-Thanks for providing a forum for local media. MLB, the mayor, and the DC Council may seem off-topic, so here's the obligatory media connection: I missed the exchange between Jim Vance and George Michael on channel 4. Sorry I did. There are big and small observations to make from the 11th hour exchange between MLB and DC, specifically councilwoman Linda Cropp. One minor observation I've made is how different men and women are-in so many ways. Men understand deals. Men understand bets. When you lose a bet, you pay. When you shake on a deal, you've got a deal. Now, it may not be the best deal you could have made, but that's moot. A deal, after all, is a deal. Besides, if it was good enough to make in the first place, you're probably going to benefit to some degree in the end. Was this the best deal DC could have made with MLB? Perhaps not. Will DC benefit from this deal? I'll argue that it will. For openers, it moves forward an opportunity to revitalize a dung heap section of town which, if it becomes attractive enough, may prompt more of DC's rising class to locate there and stay on the tax rolls instead of migrating to Maryland and Virginia, as is the current model. Furthermore, as any well digger knows, sometimes you have to prime the pump before you hit. I am not going to fault Linda Cropp for her ambitions to be mayor or, less cynically, to stand up for popular opinion in the District (short-sighted as it might be). What I fault her for is for her attempt to change the conditions of a deal after it was already made. When arguments are put forth that not enough women are in business leadership roles, there is outrage. Let's see some outrage now to condemn Linda Cropp for doing a very unmanly thing. (NOTE: Now that this has been written, you can swing at ME and call me every name in the book if you want, but you will not be addressing the point, minor as it is, that has been made.) WV (12/16/04) Wow, I am really shocked at most of the cuts at Infinity. Mark Thoner has been at WLIF for a long time. I guess its ratings or maybe a high salary not justifying the ratings but he had to have done something right to be there so long, I thought he fit in just fine and was perfect for the station. Tamara has been apart of things for a long time, I remember her on Mike McCarthy in the morning on the old Mix 106.5 starting back in the late 80s when it was an A/C station and then most recently they moved her over to WLIF. WLIF is so music intensive in the morning it seems they didn't use her too much in the show except for new which I guess they will use Matt Tacka for now. I can't speak to Stacy Lynn. I am shocked about Steve Stoffberg too, he was a big part of the Ravens pre and post game and I thought the better of the two and more knowledgeable. I wonder if they will throw in Bill Roland for that show in the future. I guess we shall see. It would be nice if they had fired them after the holidays but hopefully Infinity will at least have given them a nice severance pay. -Michael (ESRTV) (12/16/04) The comment from DC Chair Linda Cropp regarding baseball in DC and all she "cares about is her constituents" pretty much says it all about why DC is a dying city. People and businesses have been moving out in droves from the city for years because the city is run by a bunch of clowns. Most of the radio stations have moved. Most of the advertising agencies have moved. Most of the car dealers have moved. All of these businesses used to be located in DC. Cropp's constituents would move to if they could afford it. The schools, roads, trash collection, snow removal all are disasters when compared to any of the bordering counties. The idea is attract people back in to the District with baseball and the tax dollars will come. I was born in DC. I grew up in DC. My parents and grandparents grew up in DC. We used to be proud to say we were from Washington just like all of the businesses that moved. DC is a nothing more than a joke and they want Statehood? (12/16/04) OK, because I live out here in the provinces where we don't get Fox 45 on our cable, what's the big deal with Jennifer DesMarais? Every time there is a discussion about her departure, you can hear wailing from the Jennifer admirers all over the Baltimore area. Am I missing out on something? Guy in Frederick (12/16/04) Dave's response: I guess you have to be a heterosexual male to "get it"..... When a company is generating the kind of enormous cashflow/profit that Infinity produces, it can afford to make staffing adjustments at sometime other than mid-December. For whatever its worth, the flip side is that achievement of calendar-year goals (or failure to reach them) may not come into focus until the very end. Investors prefer to see companies start the year with a clean slate--prepared to be profitable. The fact that Christmas also comes at the end of the year is kind of an unfortunate coincidence. Yeah, I know--cold, hard free-enterprise capitalism--the American Way. As employees we tend to forget that employment is a business transaction. If they stop paying you, you'll stop showing up. It ain't recreation. But to return to my softer side, Infinity makes so damn much money that they could afford not to act like such A-holes. (12/16/04) Go to www.1300WJFK.com and look at the top banner. It now just shows Paul Mittermeier standing alone with the show being called “The Sports Guy”. However if you click the picture it currently takes you to the old “Those Sports Guys” page with Stofberg still listed. (12/16/04) The events of the past couple of days involving the city council and the stadium financing debacle are far from surprising. And they want home rule? Since the 70s, council meetings have resembled episodes of "Amos 'n Andy." This is like telling someone you're gonna lend them $100, then, when they come to pick up the money...you tell them you only have $50! I'm gonna take my kids to a ball game in Anacostia? When DC allows concealed handgun carry! First things first. Even the "underprivileged" in Anacostia know the deal won't benefit them one iota...and couldn't care less where a stadium is built! My guess: It won't happen. Good! Let 'em pine somewhere else! For PDC5000-8>>> (did i do that right?): add the NAACP to your "offensive" list. (12/16/04) Infinity is run by idiotic clowns. (12/16/04) As for the Redskins name; what I've heard is that the team was originally the Boston Braves and played in the then Boston Braves baseball team's stadium. But a falling out between the baseball and football teams led the football team to start playing in Fenway Park, home of the Boston RED sox. The team name was changed to resemble the Red Sox name while keeping with the Indian theme. When the team moved to DC, they kept their Fenway name. (12/16/04) in response to the person refering to the placement of antennas or satellites on townhouses. If your community is a condo you will have to comply with the rules and regulations of the condominium. The association that I belong to only permits antennas or dishes to be strapped to fireplace chimneys. This way it will not damage the roof or siding of the house which is owned by the association not the individual homeowner. The basic meaning of a condo is you pay for the right to live in a unit you don't own any physical piece of land. Barry J. Campbell (12/16/04) Someone earlier wrote, "If it's a house or townhouse that you own, nobody can stop you from putting a dish wherever you want on the property. The FCC made it clear years ago that homeowners' associations aren't supposed to interfere with the placement of antennas, be they off-air or satellite." This declaration is not, I repeat, NOT, entirely correct. If your home or neighborhood is registered historic, like mine is, you cannot have antennas or dishes visible from the street. In my neighborhood, my home faces the wrong way for a dish, and I don't have a long enough back yard to get a good line of sight to the Southwest heavens, so, I have to use cable while those across the street can subscribe to satellite. Chris in "historic but facing the wrong side," Arlington (12/16/04) "Re: REDSKINS. Just change the logo to a potato...problem solved. You can all thank me later." You could also change the logo to a kidney bean. I'm sure kidney beans have been adverstised at least once on air in DC radio history! (Just to bring it back to broadcasting.) Bob in Dale City (12/16/04) The infinity suits are such dirtbags. Not only are they firing high quality people, with decades of combined experience, but they KEEP all their metrosexual, no talent hacks...*cough KIDD....*cough...JON B.....*cough MEDLOCK. How about you fire that frosted-hair, "I'm 37 going on 18!" posse, who individually most likely make more than all those fired combined, but collectively do less for that cluster than the receptionist does. Keep feeding inward on yourselves Infinity, eventually there will nothing left to eat. (12/16/04) Regarding Infinity and their poor choice to can people over the holidays, not sure if that is just Infinity. I can’t tell you how many firms I either worked for or knew people who did, where the bloody ax would fall just in time for Christmas. John in Springfield (12/16/04) The Post candy-coats the reality while The Sun practically hammers the last nail in the coffin with the headline.... "D.C. baseball team is ordered to shut down immediately!" On the TV side, WBAL-11 seemed to enjoy the story much more than the other Baltimore stations (it was earlier in their newscast also). I guess that's because it's an immediate winfall saved for WBAL radio/Hearst-Argyle maybe? I dunno, but their coverage sure seemed a bit too giddy. As for WFED 1050 carrying the Nationals one season? Well, no, probably more likely WOR or WFAN from The Meadowlands or WNIS or WGH from Norfolk! What a bummer. (12/16/04) I tip my hat to Jim Vance. The DC City Council is filled with a bunch of hypocrites, liars and political wannabes and the Mayor is a buffoon. DC does not deserve a baseball team. Let 'em go somewhere else!! Paul (12/16/04) I fully agree in that Infinity has no shame. It's especially difficult when one of those talented broadcasters is a good friend. Hey Joe, how about "Feliz, No More Job". Joyce Conroy (WHFC) (12/16/04) There is also the theory that all of those Braves/Indians/Redskins teams originally from the Boston area (including Danny's Boys and the Atlanta Braves) got their nicknames as an homage to the Sons of Liberty who took part in the Boston Tea Party, painting themselves up as Indians before sneaking aboard the British ships and dumping the tea into Boston Harbor. If that's true, then all this hoohah is misguided, since those men did have red (dyed) skin and performed as patriots. Of course, that pass would not extend to teams that didn't originate in Boston. LOCAL MEDIA TIE-IN -- the Braves will play in Washington April 20/21...any movement from CSN on the TV rights situation? --rw (12/16/04) The name Redskin comes from the actual color of some of Native American skin. Most of the Native American I had seen in person was in the upper Midwest and there skin color was Tan. I saw some Native Americans in Las Vegas (off the strip) and their skin color was very close to red, the same color as Georgia clay. It hit me like a ton of bricks, that’s why they are called Redskins. In my opinion the word is offensive. If I sit her and type Bitch that doesn’t seem very offensive but if I walked up to your Mother, Wife, or sister and called her a bitch wouldn’t that be offensive. Some people say they are only words but they sting a bit more when those words are aimed at you. (12/16/04) Regarding the poster who mentioned the stuff about "Indian" coming from a "en Dios" being turned into Indian, the Straight Dope covered this in depth: www.straightdope.com. - Justin (12/16/04) Did anyone else just catch the LEGITIMATE argument between Jim Vantz & George Michael on Channel 4's 11:00 news? They were really, really going at it about the Nationals baseball team. Michael started out by saying that there was a deal that was broken. Vantz acted all upset about that, and when asked, Vantz says "I don't like being stuck up, that's all", referring to the deal by the Mayor with Major League Baseball. They started into it, and Vantz finally starts pounding his fist on the console yelling that the Council has the right to overrule the Mayor if it was a bad deal. And I know they play a lot, but this was for real. Even Bob Ryan sitting there (they went to a 4-wide shot by then) starts yelling "Time Out". I really thought Vantz was going to get up & smack Michael. Almost scary. But fun to watch! (12/16/04) This is off topic, but just an odd thought for a possible investigation by one of DC's TV stations or The Post... Is it possible Peter Angelos's name might show up in political donation records of Councilwoman Cropp? I wonder. Very suspicious. By the way, the Baltimore TV stations are practically gleeful with holiday cheer reporting this story. hehe (12/16/04) Hey, how about we all get together and go visit INFINITY SCROOGE Dave Labrozi and sing him some Christmas carols since he is so in the holiday spirit this year! You know, like that classic tune "Happy Holidays! YOUR FIRED!" What a low class piece o' $#@&* -- Joe in Essex (12/16/04) PEANUTS ALERT -- The Peanuts Christmas special will be rebroadcast on Channel 7, Thursday Dec. 16 at 8 pm. Enjoy; this atheist will. PDC5000 8=====> (12/16/04) You know what I find offensive? The United Negro College Fund. On the media front, good for Jim Vance for telling the truth about baseball (and, implicitly about "Mayor"... darn, I'm drawing a blank, what's his name.. Anthony something? Not the airconditioning guy, right? I miss the NightOwl). Jim, Santa will put a valium or two in your stocking. PDC5000 8====> (12/16/04) /\ December 16 Messages /\ \/ December 15 Messages \/ My mornings won't be the same without Jennifer DesMarais. Hell, I'd pay a subscription fee if they could keep her there! M in Bmore (12/15/04) First off it's Weary in Western Maryland (can't call it W. MD anymore). Second--Hating? If posting on this board equals hate--then I'm posting in the wrong place and so are scads of other gentle folk. There have been an interesting series of events regarding the Rahdio Gawds over the last week. Just putting some coincidentals in a row, eh? If you think that's hate, I got a better place to put that Tater! FYI out here in the boonies we don't have the privilege of listening to the Boyz freely. I typically have to filter through chop from 106.7 in Harrisburg, PA, and 106.9 in Hagerstown. But Listen I do, because I think the pair are some of the more talented people on radio. I liken them to Bob & Ray (down to the Murcheson Lead organ music that Don or Robbay came up with to play under their bits). Can't keep up--try being a radiophile. Sorry you don't get it... Fed up (with you) in Finksburg. (12/15/04) Two weeks before Christmas? Class acts those Infinity suits. Unbelievable (12/15/04) Hey Dave, At this time, I would like to take the opportunity to thank Frank Lidinsky, the Chairperson of the Committee to Honor Buddy Deane along with my fellow members of the Executive Committee that include "Madison" James DeWald, Bob Mathers and Lee Rzepecki who so generously gave of their time on the project to have Buddy Deane inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Unfortunately, Buddy was not among the inductees for 2005; however, many will attest that he truly supported and helped to further the careers of several budding rock and roll artists that have prospered like Brenda Lee and Lou Christie. This also holds true for not only Buddy but many of our broadcast veterans, i.e. Johnny Dark, etc. To Scrooge in Manchester: Be careful of the Ghost of Christmas Past. He looks like Sister Bertha. God Bless everyone. Joyce Conroy (WHFC) (12/15/04) RE: ""bloodbath" at Infinity Baltimore"....... Oh please, pretty please, tell me that empty suit anti-local/Baltimore Dave Labrozi is going to be the FIRST to go!!!!!!! Please, oh pretty please!!!!!! (12/15/04) Re the name "Redskins". I read some years ago that the term originated in the upper part of the 13 colonies and referred to the practice of some tribes (Iroquis, Syracuse, etc.) to paint their bodies red before going on the warpath. As such, the word "Redskin" referred to the paint, not the race. True? Maybe, maybe not. I also read in the same pub that the name "Indian" did not refer to the native population being part of the Indes, but derived from a comment Christopher Columbus made to Queen Isabella upon his return. When asked by Her Majesty to describe the people, he called them "The People In God." I don't know the full Spanish translation, but the last two words were translated "en Dios". That phrase evolved into the word "Indios," and was Anglicized into "Indian." That's what I read, but I don't know the veracity of it. (12/15/04) Did you hear Jim Vance on the WNBC-4 11 o'clock broadcast last night? Concerning George Michael's panicked report that major league baseball might not move to Washington because the DC city council passed a new funding bill about the financing of the stadium, he said, "fine, let them go screw somebody us". Beautiful, well done, Jim. Way beyond the usual inane news anchor - sportcaster chit chat we hear. Mike Pool (12/15/04) Don't know if it's still the case, but for a long time Jim Vance on Channel 4 wouldn't say "Redskins". He would only refer to them on the air as "Washington's football team". This was as recent as a couple of years ago, could still be the case today. (12/15/04) Re the Hunter's Brook arson fires: Fire Investigators Search For Blue Van; Witness: Truck Was Towing Trailer... "'There was a dark-colored van coming down the hill,' (a witness) said. 'I saw a person driving who appeared to have an Abraham Lincoln-type of beard, but I couldn't point the man out in a lineup, I didn't get that good of a look at him.' www.nbc4.com... Quick, Rush! Arrest Robert Bork! (12/15/04) Dave's response: Remember in the sniper case a few years back how everyone was looking for a white van. When the snipers were driving a dark colored sedan..... “Yamakas (Sp?) day instead of Hat day, and no games scheduled on Saturday.” Nice try, but it’s “yarmulkes.” More correctly, the Hebrew is “kippot,” plural of “kippah.” And if they serve Hebrew Nationals at the ballpark, I’d even root for the Washington “Kikes”! Your friendly, neighborhood Jewish mother (12/15/04) Jeff wrote, "...my development in G-Town won't let you install dishes..." What kind of development? If it's an apartment or condo, then it may be difficult or impossible to get a southwest-facing location for your dish, and you won't be allowed to attach it to the outside of the building though you could place it on a terrace if available. If it's a house or townhouse that you own, nobody can stop you from putting a dish wherever you want on the property. The FCC made it clear years ago that homeowners' associations aren't supposed to interfere with the placement of antennas, be they off-air or satellite. (12/15/04) Heynow, Dave-- Rushbaugh wrong? Automotive Degreaser used as accelerant in those fires? Rush must be all GUNKED up!!!!! Hey--if they'd just put a tater on them helmets we could stop all this jawin' about redskins. Groaners R US! (12/15/04) regarding "Why can't we change the name to the Washington Jew Boys? That is not a demeaning term. Washington or Jew or Boy are not offensive terms. The syllable structure would not alter the fight song either." I'd be all in favor of it as a new team name, but since it would only serve to prove the point that Redskins was acceptable we'd have to use it for a new Washington Sports Team, Perhaps the new baseball team. ALthough I think "Hebrews" would roll off the tongue better. Hebrew National Could be the team sponsor, I love a good kosher dog while I'm at the park. Yamakas (Sp?) day instead of Hat day, and no games scheduled on Saturday. (12/15/04) Re: Response to Worried in Western Maryland- the ratings have been up throughout the year. Why have they got to #2 in the 12+ demographic now? I mean at least give some facts without mindless hating. Tim, Gaithersburg (12/15/04) It looks like WCEI 96.7 Cambridge has gotten FCC approval to move their transmitter north, pushing their signal better into the Baltimore market and making Annapolis part of their local coverage area. --Joe in Essex (12/15/04) Here's a question to ponder: Will the Washington Nationals be able to gain any kind of radio flagship stronger than a WFED should its stint in town be reduced to one lame duck season? It would make no sense for WTEM to drop the Orioles in favor of a one year Nats layover. Everett W. (12/15/04) Dave's response: Ahhh, is it too late for the Nats to move over to Virginia? We want 'em..... Redskins, Braves...Beavers....Apaches....who cares? This is America, the silly things we fight about are exactly that SILLY! Since Politically Correct has come about, we're a bunch of whining, apologetic and whimpering individuals afraid to stand up to our own rights and privilges. To be quite honest, I think that's a shame. PLB:0) (12/15/04) Re: REDSKINS. Just change the logo to a potato...problem solved. You can all thank me later. (12/15/04) Don't get me started about the morals of Jack Kent Cooke, whose wife became pregnant against his wishes and who considered legal action to force her to end the pregnancy so he could avoid paternity (he lost on both counts). There were calls to name a road after his child rather than himself, to remind the old selfish fool it was NOT all about him. You think I believe a survey he would conduct? (12/15/04) The ban on using the term "Redskins" was also banned at that time on sister station WASH-FM. This policy was implemented by then General Manager Michael Douglas. On a side note, another one of Mr. Douglas' infamous station policies during his reign was to require all on-air radio personnel at both stations to wear neckties during the regular business week. (12/15/04) The big question now is, which big media company is going to invest tons of money into a shortlived 1 year DC Baseball Exhibition season broadcast? Hell, The Nationals might end up being broadcast on 42 watt WFED 1050 now, that is if they don't end up in northern NJ before Jan. 1! HAha! As for the Redskins name... Just because someone or some political group says a word is offensive or derogatory does not make it law or even true. Yes Redskin refers to color of skin and Red sox refers to color of sox. But comparing the "N" word to Redskins is silly, misguided, and dangerous. When is the last time you've heard anyone even use the term redskin in any way outside of the team itself, let alone derogatory against an American Indian or anyone for that matter (excluding Cowboys/Ravens fans)? If every group, person, agenda has it's way, eventually you won't have free speech to say nearly anything in this country and everyone will be in "sensitivity training" indefinitely. Finally, If you use your OWN logic and apply it to some of the old baseball Negro league team names (a recent topic in DC), some would probably have to be banned by today's standards for their connotations. And those were CREATED by African Americans! DOH! (12/15/04) How 'bout this? Keep the Redskins name but get rid of its association with Native Americans. Remember "shirts and skins" football, where one team plays with their shirts on but the other goes topless? So "Redskin" COULD symbolically refer to the latter. The new team logo could, for instance, consist of a big muscular guy flexing his arm/muscle in the foreground, his chest is red from sunburn and his red face suggests meanness/hate/anger toward his opponent and a determination to win. It doesn't even have to show him bare-chested; that would probably be construed by many as gay. Maybe you think that's stretching things but just think of the idea rather than precisely how to do it. Wouldn't that be a good compromise? Only a few changes would need to be made to the "Hail to the Redskins" lyrics, and they could also change the call letters of WFED to WRED and make it the Skins' flagship station. Besides, there's nothing going on in the federal government on weekends anyway. Jeff (12/15/04) Dave's response: How about the Washington Reds (apologies to Cincinnati), a la commies..... Watching Saturday Night Live on Channel 4 on Dec. 11th, am I right that Colin Farrell said, "I'm not sh*tting you" during the close? Does it matter that he said it at 1:00 a.m.? Think anything will come of it from the FCC? Brings to my mind when castmember Charles Rocket got fired for dropping an F bomb in an SNL close. (12/15/04) Two things – Enough already on this Redskins name business. Danny IS NOT going to change the name no matter what all of you PC people want. But let’s say he did entertain the idea, what would the team be called? The Beltway Backups, The Federals (I think that has been used before), the JKC’s (for Jack Kent Cook, probably not), the 25’s (as in how much you are charged to park near the stadium) or best yet and very PC, the football team near Landover Mall. Now something on-topic, I have been listening on and off the WFED and they sound, as least to me, very much like Bloomberg’s WBBR in NYC in terms of pacing and to a degree content, not a bad thing I might add. Bill R. (12/15/04) I just read that Rudi Bahktiar is leaving CNN (not voluntarily) and heading to FOX. (12/15/04) Dave's response: Yawn..... Dave, if WMAL did an "Ask WMAL" call-in show, you might be the only person who cared enough to call. You are obsessed with a station you profess to dislike. Me thinks the moderator dost protesteth too much. (12/15/04) Dave's response: I think I'd have some company..... The use of the term" Redskins" was banned about 15 years ago by WTOP. This lasted about 4 or 5 months until WTOP was sold and purchased by Evergreen Media. WTOP took a stance and was killed in the press and by the local advertising community. The late Jack Kent Cooke commissioned a study which was submitted to WTOP as evidence that the term "Redskins" was not deemed offensive by the Native American community. At the same time WTOP commissioned a study which produced results to the contrary. The management of WTOP was way ahead of their time with the decision to ban the term. Picking a fight with the Redskins in Washington was indeed a risky proposition and we will never know how the decision would have played out if the station was not sold. The media is just as guilty as the football team for profiting from the name. (12/15/04) Re: Tony Kornheiser (Sportstalk 980) and Baseball in DC. There have been a lot of instant reactions by print and electronic media that baseball in DC is dead. Have to give credit to Tony Kornheiser for taking the more rational, and perhaps the more accurate, view that this deal can still get done. Hopefully, the statements expected today from Mayor Williams and Major League Baseball will be as measured. Jim, Alexandria (12/15/04) I'm almost certain that IF Washington didn't have a team and was in line for a NEW franchise, "REDSKINS" would not even be considered as a possible team nickname... And it wouldn't be due to political correctness either... so, what makes a name more acceptable after the fact? Realize that back in a time when this name was adopted as the team's nickname, African-Americans were called: (you fill in the non-"politically correct" name) Just 'cuz our parents were insensitive doesn't mean they were right! (12/15/04) Not a radio/tv issue but since everyone is talking about offensive nicknames: Why even have team nicknames in the first place? With the exception of cities with two teams (New York) they should just ban all these stupid nickhames. In Spain and England you have soccer teams names Real Madrid, Barcelona, Arsenal, Liverpool and not the Real Madrid Marauders, Barcelona Bombers, Arsenal Avalanche or Liverpool Lizards. Anyone know of any cool Jazz joints in Utah? Of course this will never happen as there is too much to be made merchandising gear to fans. Best DC team name hands down though is D.C. United. (12/15/04) Right on. The mailbag is now a place where we can talk about sales managers and their marriages. Finally Dave is going to let this forum turn into a place where posters can rip apart the private lives of non-personalities at radio stations. Should we start with Mrs. Bennett Zier? Mrs. Jim Robinson? Mrs. Joel Oxley? You should be embarrassed Dave. -- Mrs. Jeff Hedges (12/15/04) Isn't it amazing how similarly bad things come in twos. Last week my mom (the 81-year-old who recently stopped listening to righty WMAL, remember?) decided to get DirecTV and throw Comcast out. She said she'd be saving about $20 a month and be able to watch more channels than she currently receives. Yesterday the installation man came to her house. Later that day she called me at work and said "I changed my mind. The guy said I have too many large trees and the only obstruction-free place they could put the dish is in the far corner of the back yard, but then they'd have to run a wire about 100 feet to the house from there, and doing that would be too expensive." I said, Why don't you just have it installed on the roof, which is above the trees? She said "I don't want a hole dug in my roof. It might start leaking later." That was the deal-breaker. You know, my development in G-Town won't let you install dishes and I was really looking forward to her getting one and seeing firsthand the resulting improvement (translation: fool around with it every reasonable chance I get!). But she withdrew at the eleventh hour. I take that as a bad omen, people. Mom killed her only opportunity to get DirecTV. We're not getting baseball in D.C. You heard it here first. Jeff (12/15/04) About 980. yes it it refereshing that they have done two local shows this week in the morning. However, I disagree with Greg from Sportsfan. Mike & Mike seem to be a pretty good show. Don't get me wrong, I would love a local only sports radio. I travel monthly to Philadelphia, and 610 WIP is far superior to 980, IMHO. But most of ESPN radio that has been heard in this area, except for that guy that replaced Kornheiser's slot, has been good. If 980 can not support a local only show, then M&M do just fine. TL (12/15/04) Dave, NPR did a story on WFED this moring: www.npr.org. jm (12/15/04) OK your in depth analysis has swayed my thinking on the Redskins name thing. Lets go ahead and change it. AND while we're at it. My friend William absolutely despises being called Bill, as he sees it, his name is William and likes that better, so we'd better rename the Buffalo Bill's because it offends him, and I'm sure some other Williams spanning the country. AND we should also rename the oriole's because even though it's the state bird of md, it SOUNDS and awfull lot like OREO which is a disparaging name for people of white and African American Descent, now i'd like to Address the Wizards, who in recent memory changed their name from the Bullets (Which Implied Violence ) Wizardry and Witchcraft is VERY offensive to Catholics and Christians and since the Christian faith is in the majority in this country, we can't go offending the majority, so they'll need to change their name too. Greenbay is next on the list, Packers is sometimes a derogatory term for Homosexuals, as are the Pirates, sorry Pittsburg you're going to halve to be more creativeas well. Next on sportscall we have the Denver Bronco's, the Bronco is also a type of Ford, and Chevy country despises Ford, we mustnt' offend Chevy Drivers. The Saints, are also offensive as not all religions recognize saints, the Muslim world must certainly be offended we should change theire name too as well as the Padres for that matter. YAnkees are offensive to southerners, Patriots are offensive to illegal aliens, Mets or Metropolitans are offensive to those in rural areas. On second thought, why don't we all just keep whats offensive to ourselves, and try to move this country forward instead of Bitching and Moaning about every little thing. (12/15/04) "That has nothing to with broadcasting and continues a time-worn argument. The Washington “Redskins” do not demean Native Americans in any way. " It has everything to do with broadcasting since we hear the games on local station WJFK and pregame shows on WTEM. We also hear "Hail to the Redskins" over and over on the radio. Why can't we change the name to the Washington Jew Boys? That is not a demeaning term. Washington or Jew or Boy are not offensive terms. The syllable structure would not alter the fight song either. Perhaps the Washington Negores would reflect the demographic makeup of D.C. If the term Redskins offends Indians, it is offensive. (12/15/04) To the "sensitive" Native American? Since when has the Redskin team ever humiliated our Native Americans? You know this is America, you know there is almost nothing left that is considered "free speech" the POLITICALLY CORRECT, have destroyed our sense of humor, our pride, our very freedoms to say almost anything. I say HAIL TO THE REDSKINS.I'm certain too, that any NATIVE AMERICAN worth (his or her)-PC salt feels the same way. Even if you are a Native American, if you don't like the way we feel about our REDSKINS...leave, go ANYWHERE, but leave. (12/15/04) Dear "Offended by the Redskins Name"... First of all this is a forum about radio and television. So I already question your intelligence. It's time for people to stop being offended by words. Words are merely a collection of letters (on paper) and sound (when spoken) a word has no malice it is simply a thing. It is PEOPLE that use words to hurt, and imply meaning on these words. Take the "N" word for example, it's perfectly ok for African American people to use it because there is no malice behind it when they use it. ARE YOU UNDERSTANDING? If Washington's football team were comprised of nothing but Native Americans and local sportscasters demeaningly referred to them as "Redskins" then yes that would be offensive for sure. However, I don't believe there are any Native Americans on the team at all. Are you a Native American? are you even more than 25% Native American, I'm guessing your probably not, I'm guessing your simply a rabble rouser who is never more content than when stirring up controversy. While I'm on a roll, can we please stop all this "African" "Native" "Latin" "Asian" American Classifications of people, we are ALL Americans. This country is about unity.. UNITED States. Definining ourselves this way does nothing but cause divisiveness. Thankyou and God Bless (12/15/04) I think SportsTalk 980 is a joke, and Andy Pollin is its flat punchline. But I have to give credit where its due, and this morning's public forum on the baseball mess that went down last night was a great listen and did a solid service to the D.C. sports community in covering this evolving story. It just goes to show that when you come strong with the local content -- which means taking a vacation from Kobe v. Karl and other tedious national stories -- good things happen. As one of the callers alluded: Between the Redskins show on Monday and this show on Wednesday, there were actually two mornings this week in which one could listen to WTEM and not dry heave. Greg Wyshynski, SportsFan Magazine (12/15/04) Dear Santa: Please make sure our Dave gets and EXTRA LARGE HOLIDAY GIFT from everyone, and I mean everyone to support this outstanding radio/tv site and Dave's year round hard work deserves every penny. P.S. Santa, on your way back to the Pole, be sure and stop by for a little liquid refreshment Christmas Cheer and don't forget to pick up the ever lovely Joyce C, Tom C and the even more lovely Scotty F and K E E P T H E M, at least for a year. I'll get all three a broadcast school application and they can officially start "The former part timers/board operators" club. I could not make it thru the day without their "pearls of wisdom" radio consulting advise. Poor souls, legends in their own mind. Heard Joyce's alleged oldies show on that college radio station and Ken Merson, Jack Edwards, Goldy and Johnny Dark...you have NOTHING to worry about. I love her shameless self promotion. One more quickie Santa...if Clear Channel buys The Bay, maybe they can shift Scotty (30 years and still going strong) to their sister station -Heaven 600, God knows he too could use a few prayers. Gotta run, please support Dave today, NOW with a very special donation. I am. Hum Bug, Scrooge in Manchester. (12/15/04) Dave's response: Awww, shucks..... Nobody CARES what a junior Washington Post television reporter thinks of the Redskins name. That's the point. And the name isn't offensive to American Indians, as demonstrated by a recent University of Pennsylvania poll which found 90% of Native Americans polled support the name. It's a clear case of the patronizing p.c. crowd telling people what they think they should be offended by rather than what they are offended by. But keep on frothing at the mouth p.c.ers. It is quite entertaining. (12/15/04) Has Donny G. done his "Hamburger James" story yet? I used to love listening to that every year. Guy in Frederick (12/15/04) Just listened to the WTOP's top dogs answering listeners' questions about the operation of the station ("Ask The..." at 10 AM on Wednesday). Great! Now, how about the same thing from the brass at WMAL? How about it Chris Berry and Randall Bloomquist? - DCRTV Dave (12/15/04) ..I thought that the Mailbag was normally moderated, and that you'd blow up the post if you didn't want it as a matter of course. To provide Radio/TV content, I should have added that I guess I can stop wondering about who will be doing the radio play-by-play for the new team, and if it would be on AM (where baseball belongs). Sorry again, not trying to crank you. I do like the site. Radio Bear (12/15/04) Dave's response: I will often let the occasional off-topic post through. But I do have to put my foot down when I start to get tens of off-topic messages..... Regarding Doni of D&M Bashing Ms. Hughes, Michael Todd's Response? "Wha' Happened" - How can Michael "Wha Happene'd" Hughes be expected to manage multi-million dollar major market radio stations when he can't even manage his own wife? Maybe he'll put Jeff "Drop the Rate" Hedges in charge of his marriage as well. Hedges marrital history resembles his sales philosophy... All sizzle no steak. (12/15/04) Dave's response: Now now now. Can't we all just get along..... Once upon a time in a place called Washington there was a man named Marion Barry. Marion Barry hated another man named Tony Williams, who was also called The Mayor. One day, Marion Barry said, "I hate Tony Williams so much, I will run for City Council! Someday, they will have to stop calling Tony Williams 'The Mayor'." And so he did. And the people in a place called Ward 8 voted for him. Soon people will have to call Marion Barry "City Councilor." But he really wanted them to call him "Mr. Mayor." So he watched and waited. But there was also a woman named Linda Cropp, and no one really knew who she was. She wanted people to know who she was. So she said, "I will pretend to support Tony Williams." What she really wanted was for people to call her The Mayor. Then everyone would know who she was. But if people were going to call her The Mayor, then she would have to find a way to get them to stop calling Tony Williams The Mayor, because there can only be one Mayor. But there are many people called City Councilor, and Linda Cropp was in charge of all of them. Suddenly, Linda Cropp had an Idea. So, one night, she waited and waited until it got dark, and then she undid a promise about something called Public Financing that Tony Williams had made to some men who were going to come and play baseball in Washington. Tony Williams had worked for a very long time to make a deal with the people who play baseball. Linda Cropp hated the thing called Public Financing. Linda Cropp told everyone that she didn't hate Tony Williams and that she was only protecting the people who lived in Washington, and who vote for The Mayor. She said that she was Only Doing Her Job. So, the very next morning, Tony Williams woke up and said "Ow, my head hurts." Another man named Tom Boswell woke up and was very unhappy. He said "Ow, my head hurts." He gets paid to write things down for everyone else to read, after they pay 35 cents. So he wrote down all about how unhappy he was, because of the woman named Linda Cropp. People in Washington paid their 35 cents, and read about how unhappy the man was. Another man named Bug Selig was also unhappy, but he was not available for comment. And everyone in Washington knew what that meant. Nobody would be coming to Washington to play baseball in the summertime. And somewhere, in a place kind of far away called Baltimore, a very evil man called Peter Angelos was laughing, because now, more than ever, Peter Angelos loved Public Financing. And he found that he kind of liked Linda Cropp, too. (12/15/04) Dave's response: Warning. This is a local radio/TV/media forum. Please keep posts on-topic or I'll have to start trashing stuff (again)..... Here's a clue for the folks so embedded inside the beltway that they don't have any idea how really offensive the term "Redskins" is.......it describes the color of someones SKIN! Where else could anyone get away with this? Tradition doesn't mean anything when an entire group of people is offended. Go ANYWHERE else in this country....Canada and South America...and you will find how outraged people are that here...ironically enough in the capital of the free world,our NFL mascot devalues an entire race of people...indigenous to this land! No, the team names, Braves, Chiefs, Warriors etc do not do that...ONLY Redskins! The smug argument ..."but they've always been called the Redskins.." just doesn't fly anymore in a so called "intelligent" community or anywhere! We evolve....we don't use the term...darkies, coloreds, negros anymore.....a police transport vehicle is no longer referred to as a "paddy wagon". The Poolesville High School team changed it's mascot from the Indians....again...NOT an offensive term. When is this area going to wake up? (12/15/04) In regard to a question about Route 81 Radio, I understand a few months ago that they were in the process of acquiring a few additional stations, and may have already done so by now. I syndicated with a station Lloyd Roach owned back in the 80's and know him well enought to believe that he is willing to take chances but at the same time is a savy businessman. Most of the stations are in PA and NY state. Tom Conroy (12/15/04) Just when you thought it was safe! I had begun to notice little improvements in the WARW morning show: The “Charlie Sheen” and “Tom Brokaw” bits had disappeared, and I was hearing very little from “Mr. Announcer Man.” I thought I’d heard the last of the gay baseball play-by-play, as well, and had just said something about it to my husband this morning, when—lo, and behold!--a new edition of same came across the airwaves. Evidently, Max Dugan is listening, but with only one ear. (12/15/04) Please! Don’t start a another thread comparing “Redskins” with the plainly pejorative term “N*ggers.” That has nothing to with broadcasting and continues a time-worn argument. The Washington “Redskins” do not demean Native Americans in any way. (12/15/04) Rush said DICK! haloscan.com... BUT WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN??????? (12/15/04) Dear DC, Sorry it's been so long. Yes, the harbor is still off the table, but we'll trade you Merriweather for the Nissan Pavilion (minus the traffic of course). No, we don't want to trade mayors just yet, but that might be negotiable in the near future. We might want to trade newspapers to solve our inferiority complex, although that would probably not be an improvement for either city. We will definately trade some of our assisted living folks for your Redskins coaching staff though. I hear they drive automobiles better. All in all, you'll have to come up with a better deal though, you know, like with Major League baseball. Ooops. Cheer up, you have a wild new circus in town. They have the best clowns in the biz. I think it's called the DC City Council or something like that. Oh the laughs. We wish ours was so funny. But, oh, our baseball team is also off the table. Sorry. Love, Baltimore (12/15/04) Message to Joe from Essex, Monady the Sea Monster is not rolling in his grave. In fact he's alive and well, is rolling around in a pretty nice Mercedes. (12/15/04) I met Czaban, very briefly, two or three times, and he seemed to be the stereotypical sports talker: a tough guy on the air and a milquetoast in person. He was a nice enough guy, but all he wanted to know was if I loved his show. The fact that I was a working reporter covering the same event never really phased his needling for compliments. I don't know what his politics are and I don't want to know. His rhetorical stumbling when he tried to defend Steve Kerr's use of the term "Chinaman" in reference to NBA player Yao Ming-in essence Czaban declared it was OK to use the term because when he was a kid it was a compliment, because China had a lot of rice (???), and besides, who can keep track of what's offensive nowadays?-was quite revealing. Oh well-typical Cracker. No offense. I'm using the term in a complimentary way, because Caucasians have, um...have so many crackers. Dave In Sterling. (12/15/04) Uh, perhaps Lisa de Moraes has *personal* reasons for disliking the Redskins name? Is that allowed? Why is it okay for Washington's NFL team to be called "Redskins" and not "N*ggers"? Yeah, yeah, you know the N-word is very offensive and hateful and none of you would ever use it yourselves, blah, blah.... But, somehow, "Redskins", a word very offensive and hateful towards American Indians, is okay. Because it is *valuable*? As a *brand name*? Do you have any idea how incredibly stupid that is? (12/15/04) To "Weary in Western MD" - Yes, the D&M end of the book thing IS getting very old. The book ends this week, the trends will be out on Thursday, and D&M are looking for ANYTHING to attract attention to a show that has slipped in the ratings over the past few months. They should go on vacation, for a long, long time, and see whether anyone truly cares or misses them. (12/15/04) /\ December 15 Messages /\ \/ December 14 Messages \/ To the Czaban basher: sorry guy, I have no clue why he left Chicago or even if he really worked there. But getting fired from radio stations is hardly an uncommon occurence now is it? And stop with the p.c nonsense. Czaban isn't racist, that's just your code for saying you don't agree with his politics. That's apparent. (12/14/04) "Sorry to pop your reader's collective bubbles, but you guys can't blame Michael 'Todd' Hughes for the mismanagement of Infinity DC. He was demoted from Head Honcho of the area to GM of WARW and WJFK a month or two ago, so he's really only responsible for the mismanagement of those stations, not the entire cluster" Wait, so you mean that in the span of "a month or two" DC Infinity went to crap? Possible, but I don't think anyone meant that it just went to crap. It's been crap for many years, except for WJFK-FM weekdays. Many people have complained about the Arrow. Don't defend Michael Hughes if you can't back it up better than that. TL (12/14/04) OK Dave, it's a bit--right? D&M talking about going to satellite today. Don dissing boss' wife yesterday. Fallout at party Saturday. Robbay and Furniture Guys Saturday Afternoon (Didn't sound like infomercial--not pushing product, aaaannnnddddd...). Enough ammo for a serious conspiracy theory. But, of course, it's all a bit. D & M will go on vuhCAshun over xmas & leave us all wondering, right? Dave--what did you know and when did you know it. Signed Weary in Western MD. (12/14/04) Dave's response: Hmmm..... Re: "Hey... anyone know anything about Route 81 Radio? Are they making money yet? What about those guys at the top, Lloyd, Gavin and co.?" Tom Gavin owns radio stations now? ROOOOOOOOOOOOARRRRRRR!!! Tom, spell "profitability"... (12/14/04) Didn't Bennett Zier do an "Ask the boss" kind of show a few years back? Didn't he promise to come back on and do it again? (12/14/04) Dave's response: Yes. On WTEM. And he supported Phil Wood, who was promptly canned..... Captain Chesapeake & Moandy the Sea Monster just rolled over in their graves......... I guess this is only a technicality, but it still seems sort of sad.... Chesapeake Television will be no more soon. The original company (that of course is owned by Sinclair) that started WBFF channel 45 and all those great cheesy local TV shows and news will soon be officially retired & transfered to Sinclair Communications along with the 3 other TV stations originally purchased by WBFF way way back, pending FCC approval. -- Joe in Essex (12/14/04) Dave's response: Can't forget movie host Bill LeFevre and newsman Ernie Boston in his red blazer..... WTMD Seeks Membership Director TOWSON, MD (2004-12-09) The successful candidate should be well versed in all aspects of individual giving and relationship building. Responsibilities: Organize and execute listener-based fundraising efforts, including but not limited to on-air fund drives and direct-mail campaigns; work with programming and development departments to create events and promotions that enhance the station's identity and revenue; supervise onsite presence at venues and concerts; track relationships with major donors and work with TU Foundation to process incoming donations. Hours may vary based on fund drives and special events.Requirements: Bachelor's degree; three years of related experience, preferably in public radio; and MS Office, Internet, and presentation proficiency. Prefer experience with Public Radio Membership Software. Business and music industry contacts a plus. Most important is a passion for independent radio and great music in Baltimore. Excellent customer service attitude will take WTMD to the next level. Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits: Full university benefits include excellent health, life insurance, and retirement plans; tuition remission; and 22 days of annual leave, 14 holidays, personal and sick days. To Apply: Submit a resume with cover letter stating Title, Vacancy #E-365-04 and contact information of three employer references to TU Human Resources; 8000 York Road; Towson, MD 21252 (fax 410-704-2891). The selection process will begin immediately. Copyright 2004, WTMD www.wtmd.org (12/14/04) Does anyone know whatever happened to Kelly Swoop on ABC2 in Baltimore? She was doing the mornings with Jamie Costello and had a baby but she has been on maternity leave way to long. Just curious. Thanks, Dave in Laurel (12/14/04) Sorry to pop your reader's collective bubbles, but you guys can't blame Michael 'Todd' Hughes for the mismanagement of Infinity DC. He was demoted from Head Honcho of the area to GM of WARW and WJFK a month or two ago, so he's really only responsible for the mismanagement of those stations, not the entire cluster. Don't believe me? Call and ask. Hey, it'd be fun to call and ask when the new trend comes out. I'm sure he'd love to share what a great job he's doing with the turnaround on Arrow. (12/14/04) Where did I say anything about Czaban's politics in my last post? Czaban is racist. His comments about DC United's Barra Brava hispanic fans picking up trash in the RFK parking lot and his what he thinks is funny Black and White versions of Disneyland aren't edgy. It's him being an ass. If this is what you want to listen to, that's cool. WTEM ran one bozo out of town a few years ago (Chuck Booms). If he keeps it up, Czaban will be next. You still never answered my question about why Czaban was run out of Chicago. (12/14/04) Much of the WARW sales staff went missing at the WABA luncheon last week, it's my understanding for the second year in a row....could it be that Todd "Michael" Hughes is afraid his sales staff would be networking for a new job somewhere else in 2005? Seems like it. (12/14/04) Just clicked the Listen Live link on the Washington Business Radio website and heard what seemed to be techies setting up equipment. There are worse things than dead air. -- Chester in Ballston (12/14/04) I saw the following in All Access, I just want to wish Brian (former B104 and Jammin 99-5 jock) congratulations. -Michael (ESRTV) - CLEAR CHANNEL Urban AC WDAS/PHILADELPHIA announced today that BRIAN CARTER and DAVE SANBORN are reuniting as "CARTER AND SANDBORN" to return to the PHILLY airwaves as a morning team. The duo, who last worked the PHILLY wake-up scene at sister Urban WUSL (POWER 99), are replacing THE TOM JOYNER MORNING SHOW, which has been heavily rumored to be heading to RADIO ONE's crosstown Urban AC move in WPPZ (soon to be WRNB). Most recently, DAVE SANBORN has been working at crosshall sister Smooth Jazz WJJZ, while CARTER has been doing his thing for XM since 2001, hosting a morning show on the service's Urban Oldies stream. (12/14/04) ("I only heard part of Don's rant regarding his boss's wife at ....How did the story end?...") It ended like this "Blah blah blah, I'm the wonderful Don Geronimo, Blah blah blah, I have an ego the size of DC, Blah blah blah, I do the most boring show on radio now, but I really love myself". And I didn't even hear it!!! (12/14/04) Hey... anyone know anything about Route 81 Radio? Are they making money yet? What about those guys at the top, Lloyd, Gavin and co.? (12/14/04) I have to agree with Joe in Essex. Who give's a rat's ass about what some obnoxious t.v. writer thinks about the Redskins name. Everybody knows it's not changing. Danny Boy Snyder knows the value of a marketing dollar and no businessman with at least half a brain would change a 72 year old brand name. But it IS fun to see how the name Washington Redskins makes the p.c. crowd foam at the mouth. (12/14/04) Michael Graham wrote "we all agree that the soldiers who have been the victims of Iraqi terrorist violence (I think you call them “the true patriots, the Minute Men”) deserve our support." Michael Graham has never met a Republican talking point he didn't love, and get wrong. Hint; Those fighting us in Iraq are not all Iraqi, not even close. It is one of the real problems over there. To claim or infer they are, and /or to label them all Iraqi, is just spreading misinformation. But hey, Michael Graham has proven once again he has to resort to black and white thinking because he doesn't wish to even try and comprehend complex situations. (12/14/04) Regarding Hillary Howard, I happened to turn on to WJLA's early morning news coverage on Monday also and the anchor went to Hillary who was on camera reporting. I'm another long time Channel 9 viewer- going back to Don Richard's "Esso Report"- who has made the switch to WJLA. But I find myself going back to 9 when I catch the 11 pm newscast. David in Hyattsville. (12/14/04) Oh, so now we find out the truth. The Czaban basher doesn't like him because he doesn't agree with his politics. Got it. (12/14/04) No Comment or analysis needed. www.homestarrunner.com. Bruce Kelly, XM Satellite Radio (12/14/04) Dave, I just called WYCR and left a message with the PD, WYCR has indeed flipped according to the secretary. I did find it really strange to hear Nights in White Satin from the Moody Blues on a CHR station but I thought it was a flashback or something. I heard the Real Davy Crockett come on and I am sad to see 98 YCR flip, I thought they always did well in the ratings and they had a great variety of music for CHR, a nice balance. But I bet they feel like they can make more money with that format. Until Mix 106-5 changed recently, YCR was the only CHR I listened to. But you know what its almost 2005, 5 years before oldies stations go to 70s & 80s and I think they are getting a head start on the 25-54 demo. I am almost 25 (oh man, scary thought) and the 80s music even though I was a little kid is what I listened to and I know a lot of my friends like that Classic Hits/Rock from the 70s and the retro 80s rock and pop. The 70s and 80s formats are the next thing to come to radio, just a prediction but it seems logical. -Michael (ESRTV) (12/14/04) It's beginning to sound a lot like Christmas radio.indymedia.org (mp3) (12/14/04) I was quite surprised to read the 12/6 edition of "Front Page" and the radio rumor about Clear Channel being the "most likely candidate to acquire it (us) .. " I wasn't going to write you in response, but after thinking about it for a couple of days, I decided to pass on some factual information to you and your readers. There might be a little confusion out there, as it is true Shamrock Communications, a division of Times-Shamrock Inc. is selling a radio station, but it is WTTR-AM not WZBA-FM. WTTR-AM, licensed to Westminster, MD, doesn't fit the long term plans of the parent company and is under agreement to be purchased by Sajak Broadcasting (yes that Sajak !!) and should close within the next couple of weeks. WZBA-FM, on the other hand, has continued to grow and is now a serious "player" in the Baltimore market. In fact, no radio station in Baltimore has grown as much as The Bay over the last several years, and Times-Shamrock is reaping the rewards of a well thought out, over twenty year relationship with the readers, listeners, and advertisers of Baltimore. The company will focus its resources on WZBA-FM and The City Paper- one of the most successful alternative newspapers in the country. In fact, as we head into 2005 and beyond, it would be important to note that Times-Shamrock is looking to increase its holdings in Baltimore. (12/14/04) Dave's response: DCRTV did report about the sale of WTTR-AM to Pat Sajak. Thanks for the info, but there are rumors from reliable sources that CC might be picking up ZBA. Just reporting what I hear..... Congratulations to Mike McMearty. A good guy working for a good news operation where people actually like each other. (12/14/04) So now that Ch. 9 television has completely weaned me off, I punched around this morning trying to find something watchable. WOW, Channel 11 !!! Mindy Basara and Sarah Caldwell. Both have that rare combination of skillfully telling a story AND being attractive. Very nice to wake up to and highly recommended. (12/14/04) According to Matt Koons of sprtv, CHR/Pop station 98.5 WYCR in York, PA has just flipped to classic rock, calling itself "The Peak 98.5; York's Classic Hits." Its website reflects the change: www.thepeak985.com. (12/14/04) I only heard part of Don's rant regarding his boss's wife at the Christmas party..I only made it to the part when the boss's wife came over to him and said that she was in trouble..How did the story end?.. (12/14/04) "Dear Scott Peterson, I am sorry that you murdered your wife and unborn child...Fox News division was able to achieve stunning ratings and record profits." --- Yeah, thanks for messing up the family's Christmas again, Cousin Scotty. Don't expect anything from me or Uncle Gordie this year, ya doink. - Al Peterson, Washington DC. (12/14/04) Dave's response: I'm working on a Fox News version of "A Christmas Carol" with Greta Van Susteren. She'll be visited by the ghosts of Laci, unborn Connor, and Scott (after his execution)..... WOW...a full 45 minutes in a training course?!?! I can't believe that! A FULL 45 MINUTES!!!!??!!! How will you ever manage? ...and you say all Howard does is bitch and moan? (12/14/04) Dave's response: To hell with Howard. Nothing was more funny than listening to Don Geronimo yesterday talk about how he backed out of his garage - with the garage door down! I agree with the poster about Howard Stren--I am a Part time employee at Infinity, and now I have to take time out of my ALREADY busy schedule and take a BS indeceny test......You---in the 80s IN THE PAST Howard was great--but much like everyone that is power hungry--all he does is bitch and moan and groan. Because of him--all other broadcasters have to pay. I honestly feel Howard is NOT WORTH the monthly fees, let along FREE radio for his CRAP show. (12/14/04) Hillary Howard did a report on WJLA on Monday 12/13/04. She was not on camera, but did a piece on a car accident on the noon news. It was great to know she's still around! We are another family that has switched from WUSA to WJLA and oh so glad we did! (12/14/04) You know, I'm not even a Redskins fan, in fact I'm the exact opposite, but just reading The Post's Lisa de Moraes refuse to type their name in her stupid "I'm a Desperate B!+¢# Housewife" column and instead type "[wildly inappropriate local football team's name]" over and over made me mad. Is that the ONLY local angle she could come up with for that story? A political correctness angle? Geesh. Maybe if she took time out from her wacko leftist Barbara Streisandesque political correctness BS agenda, she'd actually have time to write about LOCAL TV & RADIO every now and then! Hey Dave, how are those Post radio listings these days? Do they still show the stations/times for The Shadow and The Green Hornet? Thank god it's winter. The Post and The Sun make for great fireplace kindling. :-) Joe in Essex (12/14/04) Hey Steve Czaban's agent, tell us what happened to your radio god in Chicago.....Botton line is he got canned in both places and hopefully he's on his way out here too. The guy is a racist jerk who does not belong in radio. (12/14/04) Michael Graham shouldn't hold his breath hoping that Michael Moore will give to the Fisher House Foundation. I'm sure Mr. Moore is too busy laughing at the dead and wounded soldiers to consider giving anything to any foundation that supports them and their families. (12/14/04) The 11/29 DCRTV Front Page reported that Tavis Smiley is ending his relationship with NPR. Yet the NPR.ORG Jobs page notes that an assistant producer for the Smiley show is being sought, effective Dec 8. You may want to hold off on faxing that resume in... (12/14/04) Thanks Howard Stern - You prick. Because of your relentless rants against the FCC, the rest of the overworked employees at Infinity Broadcasting will have to take a 45 minute "Consent Decree" training course to make sure we don't say anything that will border on your trash. Get out of radio now. Go to satellite. It's just like on-line porn. Pay $9.99 a month for unlimited downloads. Good Riddence Ugly. You've screwed our business into the ground. (12/14/04) /\ December 14 Messages /\ \/ December 13 Messages \/ Regarding Czaban: I hardly think going to a bigger market, not to mention a syndicated FOX show, is getting thrown out of Charlotte.............But I'll tell you what, why don't you and Mike in Fairfax sit in your rocking chairs together while swapping stories about seeing Babe Ruth play. (12/13/04) Not exactly local, but . . . the hilarious Homestar Runner website has an accurate take on the state of radio today, through the eyes of "Strong Bad": www.homestarrunner.com (Flash required) Cygnus (12/13/04) Now that political season is ovewr and every radio and TV station is done playing those animations from JibJab (This Land is Your Land etc), take a look at what the company is actually famous for! www.jibjab.com (12/13/04) Just got back from Chicago, had a great time, its a great town and I definitely would like to go back. Its amazing everywhere I go I run into some radio or TV people. I ran into the WGN-TV crew who had their Christmas party at Hi-Tops across from Wrigley Field. What a great group of people and man they can party, there is no question. One of the people I talked to actually has a ton of family in Annapolis, small world. I didn't get to listen to the radio as much as I wanted but I was impressed by the fact that there are two sports stations, a good variety of stations-format. Dick Biondi is still going strong in Chicago on their oldies station at night. I was also impressed by the imaging at a lot of their stations compared to Baltimore, especially on the CHRs. I look forward to getting back in July. Hey its good though to be back in good old Baltimore. -Michael (ESRTV) (12/13/04) I see Allison Seymour is back on mornings on Fox5. So, wonder what this means for Gurvir?..She sure seemed to be quite comfortable anchoring each morning..Maybe she'll just do the Sunday Morning programs now. Who knows..Oh, just also saw Malini Bawaa doing a report..Where's she been?.. (12/13/04) I have been listening to WNST all day via the internet and I am glad someone posted the f-bomb on WNST because I swear I was going crazy or all that alcohol from my Chicago trip this past weekend had killed all my brain cells. Yes some guy finished up his call saying he saw Nasty Nestor and his wife at the game or something and the guy said if he had the chance he would like to...mix in the f%^&& bomb and well you can figure out what he said about him and Nasty's wife. I was shocked! The host Rob Long who was filling in for Bob Haynie just went to the next caller like nothing happened. -Michael (ESRTV) (12/13/04) To "too lazy to google" Why don't you google this..Dave is busy, and puts a lot of work into this site. Like any pro..he's got more to do than "babysit" someone too lazy to look up a mailing address. www.yellowpages.com. He, a better idea, Information for that specific city...C'mon!!!! (12/13/04) Dave, Have you heard anything about Celeste Clark over at MIX 107.3. She's been missing for about three weeks now, has been replaced middays by Amy Page and her shop steward duties are now being handled by Jimmy Alexander. Any idea for what's going on? Thanks. (12/13/04) Dave's response: Anybody know? Did anyone hear on WNST--in the 12 o'clock hour---someone droped the F Bomb today.....it's sad that Nasty doesn't have a delay... (12/13/04) "This is the second letter I am sending you." I'm with you and your understandable lack of patience, Dave. Anyone can find the phone number or address to ANYTHING these days unless you're either incredibly lazy or completely non-resourceful. Look it up writer and while you're at it, Google "this". (12/13/04) Dave's response: Ha ha ha..... (Regarding a previous message: Corporate, Clear Channel, 200 Basse Road, San Antonio, TX 78209..... Phone 1-210-822-2828..... Investor Relations Randy Palmer 1-210-822-2828 randypalmer@clearchannel.com..... Internal Communications Diane Warren 1-210-822-2828 Email Internal Communications..... External Communications Lisa Dollinger 1-210-822-2828 lisacdollinger@clearchannel.com (12/13/04) "Keep Kathleen at 5:00, and groom Alison to replace her when the time is right." A nice thought, but I have a feeling that Allison will be scooped up by one of the cable news nets sooner rather than later, unless she gets a prime-time seat on 7. (12/13/04) Speaking of CSN, when will they stop pretending to give equal play to all of the region's major sports teams? The disparity in coverage between the Redskins and Ravens is almost comical, as you can see tonight when Monday Nite Live (essentially a 90-minute infomercial for the Redskins) comes on, followed by Doc Walker's "interviewmercial" program. And don't get me started on Tony McGee's Redskins show . . . Heck, go to their web site right now (midatlantic.comcastsportsnet.com) and you will find that the lead story is not about the local team in playoff contention that won yesterday, but about another team, out of playoff contention, that lost. What gives, CSN? Of course, all of this would be completely forgiveable if CSN did not promote itself as a regional sports netowork. They should just cut to the chase (and be far more honest) and call themselves "Comcast Sportsnet D.C." and get it over with. Guy in Frederick. (12/13/04) Dave sez; "But the folks in the "red states" do take a royal sh*t if they hear the word "sh*t" come through the speakers on their TV sets." Note that the whackadoos suing Walmart over lyrics in a record bought there are from blue-state Maryland. And that the two FCC commissioners who get most wound up over indecency, Copps and Adelstein, are Democrats. And that Kerry -not Bush!- voted to increase FCC indecency fines to a half-million dollars per *!!@!. And that... aww, f*ckit. This is a recording. (12/13/04) Dave's response: Yeah, but they're from a very red part of a blue state..... February is when 700AM signs off at 5:45pm. If I were Washington Biz, I'd be more concerned about the present 4:45 and January 5:15 signoffs and WLW bombing in underneath. During December, 700 goes off the air before most of DC's workforce gets in their car and tries to tune in. I realy want to hear how they handle it this afternoon. (12/13/04) Somebody forgot the golden rule that you must follow when mentioning anything about CSN. "Chick" is always the news. --Mr. Wonder. (12/13/04) Dave, here is the information about how to contact Clear Channel, www.clearchannel.com, if our friend would have done a simple Google search...... (12/13/04) Re: ABC7 delaying "Desparate Housewives" for the Redskins last night, I noticed that back on Sun. Nov. 7th, ABC2 in Baltimore simulcasted ESPN's coverage of the Ravens game that night, but was allowed to air that day's "DH" episode at 5:30pm! ABC2 probably lucked out getting ABC's permission for the early start time, because whatever sports event aired that Sunday afternoon ended at 5:30pm. ABC2 did, however, have to pre-empt ABC's "World News Sunday", which they normally air at 6pm. I was somewhat surprised though, given some of the content of the show, that ABC2 was allowed to air it so early in the evening. -Greg from Beltsville (12/13/04) Dave, In case you missed this in today's Washington Times (item about WMAL, Michael Graham and Michael Moore about halfway down) K.J. www.washtimes.com (12/13/04) What an interesting statement: "Once again it is time to explain that the business model of commercial broadcasting has little to do with what people say they want to hear on the radio or watch on the TV. Commercial broadcasting has an obligation under law to serve the public interest." How does that work? Commercial broadcasting must "serve the public interest," but that doesn't mean it should broadcast "what people say they want to hear...or watch"? So we get TV and radio that somebody else declares we really need? Who makes that decision? Shouldn't the public be involved in deciding what's in the public interest? Seems like we had this conversation before...y'know, before it turned out that the decisions about what we all get to watch and listen to are being made by about a dozen anti-everything activists and about a dozen of their pals over at the FCC. Dave In Sterling. (12/13/04) This is the second request that I am sending you. I was hoping that you would know either the phone number to the main office/headquarters to Clear Channel Communications located in Texas or at least maybe the address so that I can send them a letter. Can you help? (12/13/04) Dave's response: Gee, I don't happen to have that on the tip of my tongue. Hey, pick up the phone and call information. Or Google it. Sheesh..... Re: "Mike in Fairfax's rantings about Steve Czaban are getting rather tiresome. It is apparant that Mike prefers "old fart" sportstalk radio of the Tony Kornheiser ilk. Fine Mike, you listen to Kornheiser while you sit in your rocking chair and reflect upon how baseball has changed since the 1930's. . I'll listen to Czaban, who is edgy, outspoken and is by far and away the best host on WTEM."---You forgot to sign this Sincerely Steve's agent...Sheesh. I agree with you Mike, Czaban stinks. There's a reason why he was run out of Chicago and Charlotte. (12/13/04) If I were advertising on 700 AM based primarily on their coverage map, you bet I would be pretty darned mad at such a deception. I hope sales kits and or rate cards do not go out the door like that. (12/13/04) Dave's response: What kinda coverage is Washington Business Radio gonna get at 5:45 PM (in the winter darkness) on "DC's" AM 700 with Cincinnati's WLW blasting in underneath? Hmmm..... To John Dunleavy: I have the Delphi XM SkyFi receiver, and am using it with the portable SkyFi Audio System (basically, a boom box) at home. I also bought the vehicle adapter kit for my car, leaving the installation to the Best Buy store where I made the purchase. Best Buy did a great job on the installation and the unit works perfectly. Eventually, I will purchase the home kit for use with my home stereo. As Dave mentioned, if you have a lot of trees, it could be an issue. As for the car, I haven't had any. I was also pleasantly surprised to see it work within the parking decks at Tyson's Corner mall. Bottom line is no matter what configuration you choose, I think you'll be very happy with the programming. Sincerely, Joe Kasell (12/13/04) Dave's response: I love progressive rock. And XM has four or five cool channels - all non-commercial. It's a musical heaven..... I heard on Imus in the Morning last week that longtime Cleveland sports talk show host Pete Franklin died. I think he also worked in NY for a little bit when WFAN was launched. I used to listen to his show at night on 3WE in Cleveland. Dude was great! (12/13/04) Actually, that is WGOP, errr, WDMV's actual coverage map, but, and a very big BUT, it's their fringe reception area, meaning only half the people inside that line can actually receive the station most of the day. They've cleverly photo-shopped out their actual local coverage area within that line which is mostly around Frederick! And most of the DC area falls within their distant signal area only (also photo-shopped out). Apparently, the 20,000watt upgrade is dead and instead they've decided to play with your mind into believing it actually happened! HAha. --Joe in Essex (12/13/04) Just picked up on the fact that WCBS-AM/New York is now streaming live on the Net, I believe making it the first Infinity station to do so except for the select few exclusively available to AOL subscribers. Hopefully other Infinity stations will follow, it's long overdue ! (Go to wcbs880.com/listenlive ) Mark O. (12/13/04) Mike in Fairfax's rantings about Steve Czaban are getting rather tiresome. It is apparant that Mike prefers "old fart" sportstalk radio of the Tony Kornheiser ilk. Fine Mike, you listen to Kornheiser while you sit in your rocking chair and reflect upon how baseball has changed since the 1930's. . I'll listen to Czaban, who is edgy, outspoken and is by far and away the best host on WTEM. (12/13/04) That job is posted for the news8 side. Alex is the newsdirector for 8 and the current anchor, Angela is very miserable and isn't afraid to tell folks that. (12/13/04) story.news.yahoo.com - Please check out this story about the Mormon Church. It's ironic that the Mormon Church is in the communications business with Bonneville, but apparantly doesn't believe in freedom of speech. (12/13/04) re: "Hollywood screwed DC": That's interesting considering how much Disney would LOVE to own WJLA. I'd say it was more like The Mouse screwing Ol' Joe. (12/13/04) Re: "Still, one can imagine a world in which there was more variety on air." Such a world exists. It is called satellite radio (XM/Sirius). You pay pennies a day directly, there is no sponsor choosing the music and interrupting it with 30 minutes of commercials per hour. So far they cannot afford much in the way of non-sponsored talk - you mostly get the various "ordinary radio" news and sports channels. (12/13/04) What? No Best/Worst this year? (12/13/04) Dave's response: Lately, I've been really busy with family matters. Just keeping the Mailbag and Front Page updated has been taking all of my DCRTV-related time. We will have our annual "Best Of-Worst Of" feature, but it'll take place during the last week of the year - between Christmas and New Years. It's coming. Stay tuned..... If not previously posted, Desperate Housewives aired around 12:30 last night.. (12/13/04) Hey Dave, got another fantastic book as a gift. Check out "Baltimore Sounds" compiled, written and edited by Joe Vaccarino. It's hard to find books about local pop musicians and their recordings, and this is definitely a must have if you love music and radio. Joe features groups like the Peppermint Rainbow, Tommy Vann and the Echoes..later Tommy Vann and the Professionals, Appaloosa, Paper Cup, the handsome Ronnie Dove, Pen Lucy and the list goes on and on. There is also a section in the back about Baltimore radio, television, clubs and organizations. In the write-ups about the recording artists, it is mentioned several times how local radio played a part in the careers of the various groups, i.e. Appaloosa's song "All Night My Friend" was included on the 1978 WKTK LP and the group Kashmir's song "Texas City" was included in "The 98 Rock Album" and "WKTK" albums. Of course, the radio section mentions fellow DCRTV posters Scott Fitzgerald (100.7 Da Bay) and his stints at WITH and WLPL. No pictures of Ed Graham (Shucks!!), but it mentions that Ed did a stint as one time station manager of WBJC. There are several pictures of the late, great Hot Rod and his memorable career at WITH (VOSA!) and handsome Joe Pachino of WWLG spinning discs at Overlea Hall. Tom and I didn't make it this time as we are still waiting to be discovered Help us Andy Warhol !!. God Bless everyone and I will keep preaching about creativity in commercial and non-commercial radio to any one who will listen. Joyce Conroy (WHFC). (12/13/04) Does anyone really tune into the type of "Business Radio" that prevails in the DC/Balt area? From this new 700 AM out to WBIS, any schmuck with $250 dollars to blow can have his own "Business Radio" program. Any ex-broker, banker, tax preparer or real estate salesman who can put a simple sentance together seems to have his own "get rich quick" radio show. The only exception seems to be the guys at DC's own "Motley Fool" & CBS Marketwatch. Even CNBC's Jim Kramer sounds like he's a tout for his friends who own public companies. I'd like to hear Lou Dobbs, Ron Insana and even Neil Cavuto do long-form business radio programs, along with some solid Bloomberg & CBS Marketwatch updates each hour. Not these idiots who are just trying to sell some stock indexing computer program with red lights and green lights that flash next to the stock symbol, or want you to send them money for a kit that shows you how to buy real estate with no money down. Whatever happened to credibility? Whatever happened to programmers who could mix a little entertainment in with their news & information without coming off like buffoons? Whatever happened to good solid radio? BTW...good luck to the new WFED. Federal News Radio is the kind of credible niche information programming that has success written all over it. Congratulations to Farley and Wolfe and Lilly and Morris and Causey and the rest of the FNR crew. (12/13/04) Dave's response: Hey, maybe Farley and company could buy a few more area AMers and do business news radio..... I can't believe all of these anonymous people are complaining about "Desperate Housewives" not airing. Washington is a football town, get over it. The cable rates are ridiculous now a days. Besides, isn't professional sports supposed to be free? That is what "rabbit ears" were invented for. Mike in Arlington (12/13/04) Frank Herzog was on the Redskins pregame on Comcast Sports Net with Chick Hernandez and Brian Mitchell. Could this be a permanent gig? CSN would be making a huge mistake if they didn't sign Frank to a deal, and include him on the post-game show as well. I read somewhere that Laurie Dhue of Fox News is 6 foot 3. Can this be verified? (12/13/04) I hate when radio carries TV audio. Radio is radio. It's that simple. But the corporate culture doesn't care. They say, "We don't have to pay talent, just a board op. Or, hmmm, automate the whole thing." Damn corporate culture. Long live "real" radio. (12/13/04) From the WJLA website (I don't know if this job is for WJLA or NC8)... Available: 12/08/2004... Department: NEWS... Hiring Manager: Alex Likowski... POSITION SUMMARY: ABC7/NewsChannel 8 is seeking a Morning Anchor to collect, analyze, prepare and deliver information about newsworthy events. Morning needs to know how to write/edit scripts and perform daily on-air presentation of newscasts. Also serving as a member of the morning show team, along with the weathercaster and traffic reporter. QUALIFICATIONS: Candidate must have excellent writing and interpersonal skills, and be able to work very early morning hours. A minimum of five years newscasting experience is required. Send resume and tape. (12/13/04) Once again it is time to explain that the business model of commercial broadcasting has little to do with what people say they want to hear on the radio or watch on the TV. Commercial broadcasting has an obligation under law to serve the public interest. That obligation has faded away in contrast to the bigger obligation that broadcast property mangers have to broadcast property owners to turn a profit at the end of each quarter. Revenue comes to broadcasters from advertisers (not listeners). He that pays the piper gets to call the tune. What advertisers want is rapt attention to their messages by people who are able and willing and likely to part with their money. If those people want to listen to or watch crap, who are we, who prefer something else, to advise broadcasters to mend their ways? It's not personal. It's not even a matter of taste. It's just good business. Still, one can imagine a world in which there was more variety on air. (12/13/04) Washington Business Radio better get in as fast a report as they can on 700 WGDOMPV: their entire program block will run from 4:00 to the 4:45 legal signoff. Also, check out the coverage map towards the bottom of washingtonbusinessradio.com - they are using the projected coverage if 700 went to 20 kW as they had hoped for 3 years ago. C'mon, at its current power output, 700 AM barely hits the Mixing Bowl, let alone cruises south a good 20 miles past Fredericksburg! What a load of bollocks! (12/13/04) I think Alison Starling is the hottest babe on Washington area news. I would love to see her at 5pm. However, I think it would be wrong to do that at the expense of Kathleen Matthews -- a beloved figure in the area. Keep Kathleen at 5:00, and groom Alison to replace her when the time is right. (12/13/04) If Steve Czaban is indeed moving from evenings to morning drive time on Fox Sports Radio, it's appropriate that he'll be competing with Howard Stern. A woman called his show last Friday to discuss a legitimate sports topic and was rewarded with the on-air equivalent of sexual harassment. Before the conversation had gotten very far, Czaban abruptly asked her what she was wearing. The caller was clearly flustered and things deteriorated from there. How anyone with a modicum of decency could find this entertaining is beyond me, but apparently it's not only condoned but encouraged by the suits at Fox. Unless this was a canned bit with the woman a willing participant (which I doubt), there's absolutely no defense for ambushing her in that way on national radio. Within minutes, another caller gave Czbaban an earful for his disgusting display. Why they even allowed him on the air is a mystery (perhaps the screener was asleep at the wheel), but not the slightest hint of an apology or explanation was offered. There's no question that sports talk radio in general is much coarser and crasser today than ten or fifteen years ago, but Czaban redefines the word 'distasteful' with his constant celebrations of gambling, pornography and all things sordid or grotesque. Hopefully, WTEM won't discard the far more classy Mike & Mike show in order to accommodate his impending morning zoo act. Mike, Fairfax (12/13/04) It appears the business radio is only between 4 and 6 pm. Program Guide: Listeners in the national capital region please tune to 700AM for Market Close Live Monday-Friday 4-6p eastern. Listen Live Worldwide at Washington Business Radio Online. (12/13/04) /\ December 13 Messages /\ \/ December 12 Messages \/ Dave - Ref. the ABC Redskins vs Desperate Housewives debacle. I would just like to say how nice it is to live south of DC (I am in Stafford county). As well as the DC affiliates we get the Richmond ABC and CBS channels (WTVR and WRIC) on Adelphia cable so we get the best of both worlds. We get to see the Redskins lose and flip it over at 9 for the weekly fix of Desperate Housewives. (12/12/04) Dave's response: Well, most of the immediate DC area can get Baltimore's ABC station, WMAR, via an antenna..... I was checking the current link you have for AM1050 www.washingtonbusinessradio.com. The site is saying that Business Talk Radio www.businesstalkradio.net is moving to WDMV AM700 Monday afternoon at 4PM. The website fails to make it clear if the new format will be in effect for the full broadcast day or just from 4PM on. No mention of Greaseman, BTW. dcradio700.com is still online and still indicating that Greaseman runs from sign-on to 2PM daily (4:45PM weekends). - Benjamin Elliott. (12/12/04) Hey people! Let's eliminate the "f'n" the "f*ing" and all the other cussing as we get closer to Christmas. It's tough to stop using curse words but for some of us this is a sacred season and the negativity and cursing should stop just for the next couple weeks. I know this is a forum for gripes, but, can we get a grip? Can't we all just GET ALONG? -Rodney King (12/12/04) For the love of God - how many times are we going to stare at a picture of J.J. Solomon in the mailbag? Can I send in a picture of D.D. Bernstein to show tomorrow? (12/12/04) Whoever posted the note here starting with “Would everyone please stop pissing on WMAL…” is absolutely right. Times have changed and the market along with it. However, I still believe strongly that there is a place for a full-service MOR station, something that is totally missing in Washington. With Washington’s demographics, such a station could be profitable if well run and the on-air talent wasn’t making six-figure salaries. The other, more bothersome point is that it would take years of work before the station started making money. Tom Gauger (12/12/04) "Also, on another note, if I heard it correctly, at the end of Saturday Night Live last night, Colin Farrell said "sh--t". I'm thinking that I did hear it correctly because after he said it, one of the cast members' eyes got so big in a "I can't believe he said that" expression..Anyone else see that?..If true, wonder if NBC will be fined..." --- NBC probably won't be fined, because indecency is allowed over the broadcast airwaves during the hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m, when "children are not likely to be watching or listening." Obscenity is still banned, but I don't think a single s-bomb would qualify under the definition. A court or the FCC can find something obscene if it finds: 1. That the average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the work, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest; AND 2. That the work depicts or describes in a patently offensive way, as measured by contemporary community standards, sexual conduct specifically defined by the applicable law; AND 3. That a reasonable person would find that the work, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political and scientific value. As vague a standard as that may be, I don't think a single s-bomb applies. -Ari (12/12/04) RE: 1260/Fox NFL pregame. Fox sports radio has been sending affiliates the 12 noon - 1pm show since the season started. Local affiliates usually screw it up cause the clock is different than the normal fox spots radio hour...at least the local affiliate here doesn't get it right. But then, who's listening? (12/12/04) Hey Dave-- Didn't see anything on your site--maybe I missed it--but what was up with JFK-FM Saturday afternoon. The Furniture Guys, Joe & Ed, produced by Robbay! I'd forgotten how funny those two are--is this a trial balloon, or something entirely new. Beat the holy hell out of the Wedding show!!! DC market, including D&M, better watch out if they get this two on a regular basis. They did very little shtick on furniture--took a few very lame phone calls, but shot jokes out rapid fire. Very nice on my drive from Fredneck west. (12/12/04) Dave's response: You mean you want me to report on f*cking infomercials? Sheesh..... AM 1260, is broadcasting, FOX NFL SUNDAY, with James Brown. But i want to no, WHY?????? (12/12/04) Dave, The Kathleen Matthews/Alison Starling post intrigues me. Is it from a reliable source, in your judgment? One would think that an insider would know that "Alison" has but one "L". I hope WJLA doesn't dump 30-year veteran Kathleen. Alison is the future, but don't jump the gun. (12/12/04) Dave's response: I have no idea whether the source of that message is "reliable"..... The post re: Kathleen Mathews leaving ABC7, fact or speculation?..Also, on another note, if I heard it correctly, at the end of Saturday Night Live last night, Colin Farrell said "sh--t". I'm thinking that I did hear it correctly because after he said it, one of the cast members' eyes got so big in a "I can't believe he said that" expression..Anyone else see that?..If true, wonder if NBC will be fined.. (12/12/04) Dave's response: Our troops are fighing in Iraq without enough protective gear and almost nobody gives a sh*t. But the folks in the "red states" do take a royal sh*t if they hear the word "sh*t" come through the speakers on their TV sets. Ahhh, America. A nutty place - or what? Forgive me. I must have overdosed on Russert this morning. And, please, no hate mail from you Murdochians. I accept your condemnation..... Would everyone please stop pissing on WMAL for dropping a lame Christmas Eve concert?! When was the last time any of you LISTENED to the radio on a holiday anyway?? Guys, radio stations don't operate for a bunch of 55+ geeks who play would-be program directors from their home computers. Commercial radio stations owned by publicly traded companies operate for the people they'd like to attract... and the people who buy time. It's NOT done for you. All due respect to Tom Gauger, and the wonderful concerts he put on in the past -- in that era, the target demographic of the radio station cared about and enjoyed those kinds of promotions. WMAL is NOT the same station it once was; it CANNOT be. Lament Madison Avenue, not the smart people who operate a very profitable radio station by providing quality local news and provocative talk programming to hundreds of thousands of devoted listeners whose demographics continue to improve. (12/12/04) Yeah, it's hard to believe people get so worked up over a song that some like and some don't. Maybe the singer turned them down for dates or something................... (12/12/04) Enough about "Christmas Eve In Washington" (bleccchhhh)....how 'bout those twisted Christmas tunes on 98 Rock? Sometime last week on KML I heard a song called "Hanukah", done to the tune of OutKast's "Hey Ya". And "Essex Wonderland" is a hoot too. (12/12/04) Dave in Sterling: "Weasel afternoon"????????? Good God man, short memory for a 43 year old. To Dave: " I've lived in the DC area almost 33 years. Where's "Christmas In Herndon"?" Where's 'Herndon'? Look at a map... most places people say are in Herndon, aren't. "Christmas Eve in Washington" is fine, like a fine wine, lemon-lime, Larry Fine. Just take the time. Dave: it's only local by association, but what about errors in my favorite (really) liberal t.v. show, the West Wing? The only tollbooths that take pennies are in Illinois (or Indiana, I don't remember)... what about the Dulles toll road? Fort Myer is suddenly in Maryland and not Virginia? The president going to and from Camp David by CAR?????!!!!! And he certainly took a roundabout route to the National Cathedral for Mrs. Landingham's funeral. C'mon, everybody play!!! PDC5000 8====> (12/12/04) Regarding WJLA’s programming Sunday night: Channel 7 agreed to carry the Redskins game long before Desperate Housewives existed. For the second time this year, WJLA *begged* ABC to allow the station to air Desperate Housewives early from 7-8p. ABC denied the request. ABC said they have a policy of not allowing their affiliates to preempt one network show for another, so WJLA could either run the normally scheduled “America’s Funniest Home Videos” or nothing at all. WJLA chose to air a pre-game show instead. WJLA also requested that ABC allow Desperate Housewives to be seen in its normal time (9-10p) on sister station Newschannel 8. ABC also denied that request claiming that they do not allow network shows to be moved to cable. ABC’s Hypocrisy is that they are allowing WPVI in Philadelphia to do *exactly* what WJLA asked for in Washington: run Desperate Housewives early. The difference? WPVI is Owned and Operated by ABC in Hollywood. WJLA is locally owned (Albritton) In a nutshell: Hollywood screwed DC. (12/12/04) Has Dr. Sarcofiguy stopped his gig as host of the SpookyMovie on Falls Church Government access channel in Fairfax County? He had Hillybillies in a Haunted Mansion" on a couple weeks a go. horible movie but what cast Basil Rathbone, John Carradine, Ferlin Husky, Sonny James and the simply scrumptious Joi Lansing. If it's over I will miss those cheezy movies on Friday nights. Say anyone know if the Book 'n Card store in Merrifield for I'm guessing 30 years moved or closed up shop? (12/12/04) To Dave In Sterling: Lighten up, dude. It's only a SONG. Talk about being thin-skinned. Now there's two mailbaggers who need to get a life. And a Merry f'n Christmas to you too, Dave. Geesh. (12/12/04) Note to “TJ” who remembered playing “Peter and the Wolf” at a WMAL Christmas at the Kennedy Center Show. I have many strong memories of the incredible music program in the Northern Virginia High Schools. The young men and women in those bands (Madison, Edison, Ft. Hunt, Woodson, Fairfax and many more) who played those concerts at the Kennedy Center, Ford’s Theater, shopping center malls, outdoors in parks and anywhere we could find a space, were the finest young musicians I’ve ever heard. We were scared together; they, perhaps at dealing with a music score in Russian… and me, worried that I was going to screw up something. (Being in front of 65 musicians who know what they are doing is terrifying!) I’m flattered that one of them, “TJ,” who wrote to this site, remembers our music-making together. Applause must also go to band conductors such as Jeff Bianchi at Madison and others an aging radio guy can’t always remember. I’m also thankful to Andy Ockershausen who strongly supported WMAL’s relationship with the high school music programs, and Bob Bowen, WMAL’s Sales Manager in those days who rounded up some first class sponsors of those remote broadcasts. And one of these days, let’s talk about the finest musical organization in the land, the United States Air Force Band and the Singing Sergeants, when they were led by the legendary Arnald Gabriel. WMAL broadcast many of their concerts, and all of us at WMAL were thrilled to appear with them. Tom Gauger (12/12/04) Wrong again. I've lived in the DC area my entire life. There is nothing in "Christmas Eve In Washington" that rings true of the area. REM's "Don't Go Back To Rockville," yes. "The Washington Post March," yes. Growing Up Different and Switchblade at the Wax Museum, yes and yes. Harden & Weaver mornings, Weasel afternoons, and Count Gore D'Evil at night, yep yep, yep. The Tastee 29 in Fairfax, the Brookside Tavern in PG County, and the Occoquan Inn, three very big yes's. Yes, it's only been 43 years, but it's enough for me to know that "Christmas Eve In Washington" doesn't cut it. Sorry that's so hard to believe. Dave In Sterling. (12/12/04) Ah yes, another nice move by good ole WMAL as they continue to spiral downward, downward, downward....pulling the plug on Christmas Eve at the Kennedy Center, are they serious. Look for another station to grab the event, and make it even better. Tom Gauger was great as a host, same goes for the multi talented Johnny Holliday singing every year with his Daughter Maura, and John Lyon, who also acted as emcee. and performed each year. I for one will miss it!!! I would think many readers to this sight feel the same as I do. It was a wonderful family show, that showcased WMAL as a family station, make that one time family station. DK (12/12/04) In case you didn't make it to the Jam session at Cab Calloway..check this out.. KISS 101.7's DOUG BANKS JAM SESSION... .J. SOLOMON is pictured with Mario and KISS 101.7 Crew 12.9.04 from left to right DJ GQ (KISS), Mellie Mell (Kiss night jock), me (Kiss Afternoon Jock), Mario, Tony Q (KISS Owner and GM). J.J. on KISS 101.7... Your Afternoon Personality (who can DJ too!)... Hit up the request line (302) 622-WJKS (9557)... J.J. IS ON KISS Monday - Friday from 2:00pm - 6:00pm... and on Saturday Morning from 8:00am-12:00 noon... www.JJONKISS1017.com... www.JJSOLOMON.com... www.KISS1017.com... AIM: JJONKISS1017... email: JJONKISS1017@aol.com (12/12/04) /\ December 12 Messages /\ Jump to the Mailbag Archive Index.....