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DCRTV Mailbag - January 12 to January 12, 2005
Latest messages listed first.....
\/ January 12 Messages \/
READ THIS! Hey regarding HFS and people feeling let down, lets collectively conduct an experiment. Here’s my hypothesis: The FCC is a useless body that fails to meet its mandate of serving the public interest. Infinity holds the WHFS license based on the premise of serving the community, which in theory is what all licensees must do, because AS WE ALL KNOW, it is THE PUBLIC that OWNS THE AIRWAVES. LOL! Now, as members of the community, WE along with the FCC (yeah right), are obligated to hold the licensee to that tenant. Now, has Infinity met this “public service” obligation or failed in it with this format flip? That’s for the community to decide. How do you express your belief that that license holder has failed to serve the community? In theory, you complain to the FCC. THAT’S MY PROPOSED EXPERIMENT! Let’s complain to the FCC. Infinity radio has failed to serve the community that granted its license by abandoning a format in favor of another for the exclusive goal of maximizing profit. Sure sounds like negligence to me! A Corporation turning its back on the community that it was entrusted to serve! IT’S UNAMERICAN! PULL THE LICENSE! Watch how effectively the FCC ignores your complaints through inaction. Wait, SAY THAT YOU SAW A SPANISH TITTY ON 99.1 EL SOL! So it’s not a visual medium, just say it anyway. THEN sit back and watch the FCC LEAP INTO ACTION! Seriously. It’ll be funny. We can all post our experiences about filing a complaint with the FCC on DCRTV. When’s the last time anyone here filed a complaint with the FCC? Why the hell not? Make em work. Here’s the url: www.fcc.gov. Seriously, like 9 people wrote in about Janet Jackson’s tit and look at how ridiculously far that went. Surely we can get more than 9 people to complain to Mr. Daddy Boy “I’m still having fun” Powell. randy in dc (1/12/05)
Wow, the race has really heated up as to which area Infinity empty suit will be fired first. I was thinking Dave Labrozzi was a lock with all of his bonehead Baltimore changes and tanking ratings, but it looks like DC's Michael Hughes has really upped the ante. Look for 99.1 to completely to disappear in the Baltimore ratings book, probably below WNAV 1430 or WTTR 1470 and probably drop in DC too! I think we have a winner for bonehead move of 2005 already! Congrats. HAha! (1/12/05)
Several posters have noted that El Zol is playing regionalized Spanish music that probably will appeal to only a small percentage of that 8.8% Hispanic community in the DC area. With that logic, I just can't believe Infinity will get any better numbers with this format than they were getting with 'HFS. Boneheaded moves like these are why XM and Sirius are gonna kick terresrtrial radio's ass in the next couple of years (sorry for repeating myself from the other day) - - - Larry in Luray (1/12/05)
you people suck. bring back the REAL hfs. no one wants to listen to ElZol... bring back WHFS. you people did a really stupid thing. hfs was extremely popular and you've outraged many people. morons. -bc (1/12/05)
A few things about the HFS thing---to HFS--HAHA--you should have seen it coming! To 98 ROCK-Grow the hell up. Thier victory party was a little over board---Mickey should be hung from 99.'s tower, like a pinata. Also, now that 98 Rock is the only game in town--they dont really have to improve...which is terrible. They seriously need to focus on music for PM drive, and ditch the dipshit duo that is on. There were a few factors that played in this flop, and I wont list them to avoid a long drawn out argument--but I'm sure the HFS loyal listeners are popping thier pimples in angst over this one. I'm sure there are a few listeners out there trying to drown themselves in bongwater.....Oh well---I guess we are stuck with the POS we call "98 ROCK" (1/12/05)
so what will Jen from whfs do now??? She was kinda cute but some say kinda bitchy, don't know for sure but she was alright to listen too... and she got canned from 98 rock before all this huh?? maybe she is a bitch ... if you know what she's gonna do, repsond please (1/12/05)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE... Somalia Tsunami Relief Radio-Thon... Radio One has teamed up with World Hope International to hold a 12 hour radio-thon to benefit relief efforts in Somalia due to damage caused by droughts and the recent tsunami tragedy. Listeners will be able to call in or go on the web to donate money for Somalia. Radio One CEO, Alfred Liggins will kick off the radio-thon with a $25,000 donation on behalf of Radio One. Mr. Liggins says “ Not many people are aware that Somalia was also severely affected by the Tsunami. Relief efforts are even more difficult there because of the lack of development and other circumstances. We are happy to do our part to aid the people of the world whose lives were forever changed by the Tsunami.” When: King Day, Monday Jan. 17th... Time: 6a – 6pm... How to Donate: 1-888-466-4673 or log on to www.worldhope.net. All Donations are tax deductible. The radio-thon will take place on Radio One Stations in 21 cities. Atlanta, Augusta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dallas, Dayton, Detroit, Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Louisville, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Raleigh, Richmond, St. Louis, Washington DC. (1/12/05)
I'm stunned at today's "flip" at WHFS. I've enjoyed the Junkies for a year or more. Hope they get back online elsewhere very soon. Anyone know how to reach the Junks? Kevin (1/12/05)
A few things..... Sad day for radio anytime heritage calls like WHFS go by the wayside, as one poster put it earlier, hopefully Infinity will have the decency to give them up. Also, it never fails to amaze me how anyone that has switched to Sirius or XM uses every opportunity they get to act like a five year old and with a new toy. Good for you guys on getting your new play thing! I know you guys are still punching up free radio, what else would you have to bitch about? It makes me think back to the early days of cable T.V. and the spoiled little brat down the street bragging about his new 13 channel set up....no wonder no one wanted to play with him. ...and Dick er, I mean Frank, maybe you should try smoking a little pot to kinda take the edge off. Your Republican rage is what undermines your credibility. You sound like a high school kid with a typewriter....woof woof? Klondoy (1/12/05)
One question... this consultant said he wants to reach these 10% of the population that are not being served? Well, how about when you reach them, send back the 5% who are illegal aliens. HFS was a crappy station anyways, proving it with their low ratings. It's all for the better that they serve these 10% of upstanding tax paying citizens. At least you'll be top in the market now! (1/12/05)
Another station I used to listen to before I got XM dies. No biggie. I don't even miss Don and Mike anymore. Satellite radio rules! (1/12/05)
Dear FrankMiester; Shut. Up. You don't leave your real name, all you do is spew hatred. Get a punching bag. And go away. You are messed up! (1/12/05)
I have been a devout listener of the HFS radio station since I could barely talk. I am shocked and extremely disappointed in Infinity's choice to take HFS off the air. They say that 10% of the surrounding population is not being served, but what about the other 90%, many of which listened to and enjoyed HFS? What's going to happen to the hfstival that thousands of hfs listeners and non-listeners attend? It angers me that a popular radio station is replaced by a radio station that is not even directed to our country's majority population or in our language. I don't speak Spanish, I don't like Latino music, and I want my HFS back! Angrily yours, Cecilia (1/12/05)
Dave's newsblurb says WHFS "evolved into a mainstream alternative rock outlet..." What a perfect explanation of why WHFS failed. Z in MD (1/12/05)
Man!! When I was on my way home from work just now, and heard Don & Mike talk about HFS biting the dust, I thought they were just goofing. Myself, a longtime DC resident, now living in Pittsburgh was floored just now when I logged on to find out that D&M weren't goofing this time. It's a sad day indeed...I'll be the first to admit that I wasn't a regular listener of the station when I lived there, but HFS provided a breath of fresh air when I got bored listening to DC101 or 98Rock ... I always found something different and new everytime I tuned in, and through HFS, I personally broadend my music tastes. R.I.P. to a legend!! In response to Jay's message further down the page about Infinity qualifying listeners for a prize in the midst of a format change, here's another entry into that journal. Not too long ago, we had a long time Top-40 (WBZZ aka B-94) station here in Pittsburgh dump their music in favor of Howard Stern and rock and roll....Three weeks prior to the format switch, the staion here (now known as 93.7 K-ROCK) was in the middle of a "american idol" type contest where contestants auditioned to be picked as the new B-94 air personality and given their own show on the weekends...They were down to the finals, and in the finals, each of the remaining contestants was given a one-hour block of airtime as thier final audition...Just a few days before the winner was to be announced, the GM of B-94 told the entire airstaff that they were being let go, and at 9am that morning, Howard Stern was going on the air and Rock and Roll would be played afterward. As a side note, every TV station in town had a camera crew at the station to film the format switch for the noon news. DT from PGH (1/12/05)
I stumbled across your site in search of where I can find Guvir Dinza now days. I know she's been gone from channel 9 and I thought she was now at Fox. Do you happen to know? Thanks, Lori (1/12/05)
Dave's response: She anchors mornings on Channel 5.....
BRING HFS BACK, WHO NEEDS F*CKING SPANISH MUSIC?1?!!??!?! U DON'T KNOW WHAT YOUR DOING! (1/12/05)
AS AN ENGLISH SPEAKING AMERICAN I BELIEVE WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO GET ANSWERS. ----- You HAVE your answer...one station in the Washington metro has gone to a new format. That YOU don't like the format is irrelevant. This station no longer programs to you. It happens all the time in radio, and has happened more than once in the past year in this area. This time, it was a station you listened to. By the way, the next time you happen to be in Los Angeles, scan the dial and listen to the Vietnamese stations out there. I believe there are three or four of them... Bob K (1/12/05)
What the f*ck!! What am I supposed to listen to know, all me and my friends listened to was HFS and the junkies. We took a school poll at Madison HS in Vienna, VA and HFS was at the top of radio stations listened to, on top of DC101, its top competitor in the area. I have a couple of questions: What is next for HFS? Will they move? Are the rumors true about the junkies moving to WJFK? And the most important question is what is going to happen with HFStival, is it going to continue or is it as dead as the station? Please reply, me and my friends are anxious for a response. Elvis (17, Vienna, VA) (1/12/05)
I found your HFS tribute site because I was looking for WHFS's website. I turned on the car today with the radio on and spanish music was playing on 99.1! I thought maybe it was a joke, so I listened for another song ... well you know the rest. I can't find any info. on the web about what happened. Do you have any information to share? local listener since 1980's (1/12/05)
WHFS 99.1 FM is dead. no more. gone. No warning, no notification, just GONE. Yesterday they were talking contests and round-the-world trips, today they are playing Salsa. No explanation, no notification, just flipping salsa music and spanish DJs. It's a crime against humanity I tell you. (1/12/05)
To Rick in Fredericksburg... who cares what Katie Couric reports? She still has the best set of legs in television, and is a pleasure to grovel over every single morning! (1/12/05)
Anyone who listened to WHFS a week ago knows that they just "auctioned" off a bunch of stuff to raise money for Tsunami relief including things like having WHFS broadcast from your house for a day and passes to all of the WHFS-sponsored shows in 2005. Boy, those aren't worth much now, are they!! (1/12/05)
It's interesting that I will actually listen to the new 99.1, El Zol. Besides the empty minded quick scan to see if they play something decent or the occassional Junkies show, I have not tuned in for at least 6 months. RIP HFS. While I couldn't really listen the past couple of years, this might actually be worse. TL (1/12/05)
Hell with 98YCR in York switching and now HFS - I have 2 presets to change! I too agree that at one time there were too many, but now there's too few! (1/12/05)
Poor Jen from HFS - she got fired from 98 Rock and then took a job at HFS only to have that station go down! Poor girl needs to go back to the mid-west! Dukes needs to go back to work at the UPS Store since him & Big O don't have a slot any more! And poor Virgin who came back from NYC to get THIS! Matty got out just in time (he moved to be with his wife, I beleive). I hope the Junkies can take Brett and CK with them where ever they move! Damn this SUCKS! But Gina Crash, Tim Allen, Rob Timm, ....... must be having a round of drinks! L ongtime HFS listener from Baltimore (1/12/05)
I agree with Rachel La Russo. I, as a hispanic male, do not like too much of the salsa, or the merengue, which all of the spanish speaking radio stations play. I listen to 98 rock, 94.7, even the now defunct WHFS. I don't listen to the spanish radio, simply because it is too much of Central American music, too much salsa. The only spanish radio station that I have saved on my dial, as of today, is 99.1, when it "was" WHFS. I can only hope that the new 99.1 mixes it up a little. By the way, "The Sun" in spanish is El Sol, not El Zol. (1/12/04)
Well, I have not been able to get to a radio since this morning, so I have been unable to listen to El Zol. For the first time in weeks, I listened to the Junkies briefly. I even heard part of a commercial where Jen (I don't know which shift she works) said that she would be broadcasting from their other studio in DC today/tonight. I have not been a fan of HFS since Gina Crash left. Oh well, RIP HFS. TL (1/12/05)
Frank Aherns, D&M's favorite Post reporter is holding a live online discussion about HFS that started at 4:30. In his opening note, it said he'd be on for an hour. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: It's at discuss.washingtonpost.com.....
Dave: Do we get to wear a Fez at Fez-Tival? I love those hats! (1/12/05)
Actually, I left out one little line in posting the "birdman" link. Should work now. www.thebirdman.org. Frank (1/12/05)
I was one of the people who plunked down more than $1,000 to get to be the "5th Junkie" for a day. I will be very persistent in getting my money back, or I will be calling a lawyer. (1/12/05)
I heard a rumor today that DC101fm will soon broadcast Al Jazzerra radio to appeal to the many Middle Eastern’s now residing in the Metro/DC area. The Arrow – 94.7fm will soon also be changing their format to Turkish talk and 97.1 WASH fm will reformat to Russian Rap! Greg (1/12/05)
The junkies website is still up it is just being slammed. Their website was never part of WHFS.com. They pay for it's up keep them selves. -Adam (1/12/05)
What? 'HFS español? No kidding. Guess it's just as well; everybody's been saying for so long how much the station had deteriorated since its glory days in the '70s and '80s. So they just decided to put it and us out of our collective misery. Whatever. Maybe it's better this way. On a related topic: Although the language barrier can be frustrating to deal with, Hispanics have just as much a right to be here as the rest of us do. Imagine if the shoe were on the other foot, and you were in a Latino country and became the object of someone's hate because you don't have brown skin and don't know Spanish. Ree, do us a favor, will ya? Go back to your redneck white supremist group and stay out of our neck of the woods. Jeff (1/12/05)
hey dave, what happened when hfs pulled the plug at noon? did they announce anything? give a farewell? or did they just start speaking/playin spanish? (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Very unceremonial. We have the audio clip on our Front Page newsblurb.....
the truth about the HFS debacle is that HFS hired the Junkies to save the station but the donkees couldn't pull it. Their ratings were strugglicious. Hurtings! Put it in the book! (1/12/05)
to WHFS.......chi-chi get OFF the yeyo! Pauly (1/12/05)
'HFS- The stunt comes true!! Oh well, now I can stop posting comments at this site excusing Lisa's inability to boost the station's ratings. It's sad that the end has arrived and that the DC market is now down to one currents-based rock station. Mark O. (1/12/05)
Rumor has it, that Don and Mike are learning spanish during the day... (1/12/05)
I was just wondering; now that HFS (my favorite radio station!!!!) is dead, where are listeners in D.C. supposed to listen to LoveLine? Or is it gone too? *~Laura George (Age 17)~* (1/12/05)
Just some "assorted thoughts". To the cowardly poster (wouldn't leave his/her/its name) who called me, "The Dick"...let me just say that I have several possible nicknames I could throw at you, but for now you can just suck my..dictionary is what you use to look up words! And you can kiss my...asteroids was one of my favorite classic video games! LOL! And that buffoon who accused me of "pot-shotting" Davey boy's mother, I say to you that your parents' biggest mistake was having you! Take THAT pot-shot, you little pothead! And yes, Dave can run this motherfucking website however he wants..I knew this shit. But damn, for him to alienate at least HALF (including "moi") of his readership with his constant attacks on the right, well that's just too damn much. Sure, 'tis all peachies and cream for liberal pukes like him and his little minions (those criticizing me) to talk badly 'bout the right, but when us "righties" give it back to 'em (to let 'em know how it feels right Dave)..then we're called "hate mongers", or whatthefuckever. BULL FUCKING SHIT. At least W, even if he isn't "perfect" in every which way (I'll even admit that), has no trouble keeping his little "Richard" in his pants while serving US proudly! And as far as Dave saying that the poster who was printed above my "great message" and myself both must have a love for WMAL...welp, it's funny that Dave listens to the station probably more than several right-wingers in the metroplex! I guess he's just trying to provide more fodder for this website, by listening to the righties speak and waxing so eloquent on his "hate" for them! Plus he also must be trying to find more sponsors he needs to boycott, eh? I hope almost EVERY business of necessity (grocers, hospitals, banks, dry cleaners, computers, etc.) will buy time on 'MAL; will Dave end up going into sheer panic mode? I guess auto dealers should still not advertise on 630, so Dave can at least feel okay about driving the fuck outta dodge! Then maybe I will take over this site, and bring some much-needed OBJECTIVITY to it! WOOF! WOOF! -The FRANKMEISTER (1/12/05)
Wow...I agree with Jason's post....my stomach just dropped. We all, at some point, held HFS up to a pedestal...whether it was the progressive rock days, the newfound modern rock time of the 80s, the time it was actually a successful alternative station in the 90's or the current format now (hey, a friend of mine that's in high school is bummed that he'll go to no more HFStivals). Mark me down for the late 90s. I was in high school and HFS was THE station. So, as many have already said, R.I.P. HFS. I'll remember you for commercial free hours at 8, noon and 5, the Darth Vader Building, Wes' "Modern Wreck" Traffic Reports, the classy Gina Crash and the legendary Johnny Riggs. (By the way, Dave, DCRTV.com was THE go-to site ...I sent the link to each one of my friends I broke the news to).--Nick from Rockville and Boston (1/12/05)
from junkiesradio.com: On Thursday morning, the Junkies and 99.1 WHFS raised over $25,000 for a Tsunami Relief Fund benefiting the American Red Cross.Throughout their show, the Junkies auctioned off one-of-a-kind items ranging from backstage passes to HFStival 2005 ............... Boy I'd be PISSED if I bid and won tickets to all or WHFS 2005 concerts! That would SUCK!!!!!! (1/12/05)
I have very mixed emotions about the demise of HFS. Haven't listened regularly in years, but hearing their sign-off playing Jeff Buckley's "Last Goodbye" reminded me of my teen years when I *did* listen all the time. Neci's overnight show will be especially missed, with her daily "get the dred out" reggae segment. (1/12/05)
While Infinity certainly has the right to do with it's station what it wants, making a complete change in format, with no notice whatsoever beforehand, totally disrespects the history of the station, those that contributed to it over the years (and continue to do so today), and the loyal listeners in the DC/Baltimore area, many of whom (like myself) grew up listening to the station. If this isn't testament to the importance of satellite radio and a damning statement about the monopolization of the airwaves, I don't know what is. (1/12/05)
I've been screaming for the past two years that this market should have a full signal FM go Spanish, but leave it to Clueless Hughes, ie Michael "Wha Happen'd" Hughes to flip HFS instead of ARW. ARW has nothing going for it anymore, and HFS while sharing lastplace in the ratings with ARW at least had the Festival. HEY INFINTY EXECS IN NEW YORK!!!! WHY HAVEN"T YOU FIRED THIS GUY YET???? (1/12/05)
Dave, This Russ Parr guy from WKYS-Radio in DC is in Atlanta this week holding it down and causing a stir in the Ryan Cameron saga, Cameron is the # 1 morning host for 18-34 demo here and quit after not agreeing on a contract with Radio One. We got a radio fiasco here. Some Atlantans can't stand Russ Parr's howling every morning here. Send your readers to the AJC's www.accessatlanta.com and click the Radio talk section. This is THE SOUTH and Parr is not appealing to them here.By the way, how could Infinity kill WHFS????? Are they NUTS??? What about the HFS festival. I guess we are now gonna have a Fiesta festival.Crack open the Salsa and Tacos! Any Spanish activists can send me hate mail if they want at kemi@keminications.com. Shout out to Broadcasting Inst of MD and WBAL-Radio and TV staff who trained me in this biz called News. It's 76 degrees in the ATL today. Kemi Lane, www.Keminications.com Atlanta's Media News (1/12/05)
So now that a fraction of 10% of our popuation may be moderately satisfied, what are those of us who like alternative rock to do? Do you foresee WHFS popping back up on another frequency? It's hard for me to believe that a 40+ year old company would shut 'er down just like that. Then again, I admittedly don't understand this business. Is it likely that a new station could either emerge to play alt rock? Or, is there any chance that an existing station may change its format to fill this suddenly open void? Or...is the alt rock community not large enough to warrant alternative options (no pun) in the DC area? Thanks, Rick (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Hmmm. Might be an opportunity for Z104 to pick up a few listeners.....
Here's the official answer I was looking for: "I actually called our news desk on Saturday and said: 'I know that we have this tsunami going on , and--and all these people, but is it true that they broke up?'" -Katie Couric on Monday's "Today" show, telling People mag Managing Editor Larry Hackett about her reaction to the Brad Pitt-Jennifer Aniston separation. Am I alone in being appalled Couric's shallowness? She's a 48-year old widow with kids, f'r crissakes! Even my 15-year old daughter is so over Brad! How can one watch her deliver a serious news story now, and not imagine she's got, like, Ben Affleck, Matt Damon and Colin Farrell posters in her room, and spends her evening firing off giggly IMs to her girlfriends? And of course, counting her million+ dollar salary. Pedalman 550 (1/12/05)
Listened to the signoff - Jeff Buckley's "Last Goodbye" followed by static is becoming a trend. Did anyone catch the last hour's worth of tracks? Well...ever willing to gain a new listener, I'd like to announce the availability of Altrok Radio, the web radio stream salvaged from the broken wreckage of WHTG-FM 106.3 in central New Jersey. Since its inception, it's been an oasis for refugees from station demises all over the country - it helped pick up the slack when WOXY went dark for a few months (Mike Edwards and I keep in touch) and it's currently filling in the gaps for WLIR listeners until they get their stream up and running. (And, though this isn't for publication, it's worth noting that former WHFS PD Michael Butcher's voice graces half the IDs; he's also apparently been pleased with the station's progress.) There's a few official descriptions of the station, but you may just want to take a listen: www.altrok.com. If you think it sounds worthwhile, let your readers know... -Sean Carolan, Editor, Altrok.com & Altrok Radio (1/12/05)
I must agree with the guy who says he's glad he got Sirius. I have XM, and it's now the only way to go. There is now NO reason to listen to regular FM radio. No matter who complained, I liked HFS, and loved the Junkies. BYE BYE FM. Great move Infinity. Switch to a format that only 8.8% of the market will ever listen to. I am done. FM is finished for me. Thank god for XM. Anyone who doesn't have it yet, get one. Send infinity a message. -Sean in Harpers Ferry (1/12/05)
WHFS's flip to Spanish is a great move. Sure, it's gonna piss a lot of people off (think Felix Grant's departure from WMAL), but, economically, it was the best thing to do. The DC area is now heavily Hispanic. Like it or not; there are plenty of 'em. Before today's switch, there was no city-grade FM doing Spanish. There is a huge Hispanic buying market. Selling it won't be difficult. The Hispanic market is an advertising pie all to itself. El Zol now competes with the Mega stations, none of which have a signal. Remember, it's not aesthetics anymore--it's bucks. WHFS was down in the ratings and not making budget. There will be more format changes before the spring book. (1/12/05)
who got drunk and went nutz - ya had the market cornered! who lost thier brain cells !!!!!!!!! man looks like DC 101 ! so much for HFS the hottest thing around ... who is the one who went nutZZZZZ ! (1/12/05)
Oh well, it's not like HFS had been a cutting edge station for the past decade. Now can we get RNR a decent signal, one that reaches further west than Annapolis Mall? (1/12/05)
To the person who mentioned that WHFS was still qualifying people for a trip this morning... well that doesn't surprise me. It's typical of Infinity Broadcasting. Infinity Broadcasting did the same thing here in Hartford back in 2001. At 5PM on March 16 of that year they flipped Dancin' Oldies Z-93.7 to Hip-Hop Hot 93.7 and that morning Z-93.7 was still quaifying people for a trip. Jay in Southington, CT (1/12/05)
It's interesting that I will actually listen to the new 99.1, El Zol. Besides the empty minded quick scan to see if they play something decent or the occassional Junkies show, I have not tuned in for at least 6 months. RIP HFS. While I couldn't really listen the past couple of years, this might actually be worse. TL (1/12/05)
Farewell to 99.1 HFS. Over the decades a great station on both frequencies, then an obvious station in decline over the past few years. Between the ratings and the lawsuits over the "mishaps" at past HFS'tivals, it is no wonder to me that Infinity wanted to be RID of that Albatross around the corporate neck for a long time now. Good luck to El Lol, but here is something to ponder. Could it all be a stunting JOKE? We all know what L O L now stands for in computer geek speak. Wouldn't that be a pisser, and the biggest practical joke launched in years and the New York suits are having a great big belly laugh at the market ? In the late 70's when I worked as a Paramedic in the DC Fire Dept, and lived at PG Station 32 Allentown Road, the company president was so much of an original 102.3 fan, the he hung a rug that he somehow got out of the old studios on the wall in the rec room of the firehouse. I wonder if it is still there today, and if so, I'm sure that it is draped in black bunting even as we speak. Scott Fitzgerald (1/12/05)
When was the last time WHFS had a 2 share? The point is that they have been irrelevant since the mid-90s. Any guesses as to where the fault lies? I know I have an idea. Mark in Asiandale. (1/12/05)
Gary in Randallstown is so right - WARX's playlist has BIG & QSR beat all to hell. Everyday there's a "Wow, I haven't heard that since the Nixon administration!" moment. Very well consulted by any measure. A better signal in Balto would be great. Also, please don't anyone confuse Frank Herzog with a real baseball play-by-play guy. He's fine on football and hoops, but baseball is not his thing. Baseball is not something a broadcaster can just "pick up" somewhere. Guys like Pollin and Czaben show that to their audience every day. If you didn't grow up as a fan, you're not going to suddenly "get it." The anchors on Comcast SportsNet fall into the same category. That's why they always bring in outside people whenever there's a baseball issue. TV-wise, the best DC has to offer is George Michael, whose passion for the game is palpable. The others are just reading wire copy. It's too bad that the best baseball writer in town - Tim Kurkjian - is doing ESPN. (1/12/05)
In other Infinity news, I just noticed that "Best Of Miles and Thrill" is now listed on WJFK-FM's weekend schedule as running from 3-5pm on Sundays. How long has this been the case? Also, James Brown's show is nowhere to be seen on the WJFK program listings. -jason (1/12/05)
Dave's response: I like James Brown. But his sports talk show is a HUGE mistake for 106.7 at 11 AM. A great way to chase away the post-Stern audience.....
Now that HFS has gone espanish, I'm even more glad I got Sirius. As of today, there's even less to listen to on 'regular' radio. For those of you contemplating it, get it. (1/12/05)
RE: "HELLO ,I'M WONDERING WHY I HAVE SOME STUPID SPANISH JUNK ON MY RADIO , IN AMERICA!!!!! OR BETTER YET WHERE DID THE ALTERNATIVE MUSIC MOVE TOO?????" Dear Mr. Tarded, I think you mean "move to." One O instead of two. But please, feel free to call others stupid. I'm as white as they come and my english-speaking, American-born, Mexican girlfriend and I listen to spanish language music all the time. People like you REE deteriorate America far worse than any radio station. (1/12/05)
Dear DCRTV, I’m sure you have been receiving tons of mail regarding the switch from HFS to El Zol. I hope you will take my email into equal consideration. First of all, I would like to commend you on attempting to reach the Latino community, an under-represented people despite their large and growing population in the United States. It is definitely time for mainstream, popular American culture to embrace Latin American elements of culture and music. However, I must now speak for fans of the former WHFS radio station. The sudden, drastic change in music has come to a nasty shock to HFS listeners, and everyone that I know is upset by this. I feel it’s safe to say that my friends and I are not the only ones who share this opinion. I honestly believe that El Zol will not attract as many listeners as HFS did, for two reasons: 1. Latin American music consists of many, many genres. The types of music that have been selected to play on El Zol are not among the most popular, generally speaking. Though the selected genres are authentically Central American/Caribbean, the general population (and especially the younger generations) do not necessarily listen to them. From my experiences, and from those of friends who are from/have lived in Central American countries, rock is probably the most-listened to genre of music. They love North American rock, as well as Latin American rock (called “Rock en Español”). Thus, it is probable that El Zol will lose its North American English-speaking listeners as well as many Spanish-speakers. 2. Those who do prefer to listen to music like merengue and bachata tune into 92.7/94.3 “La Mega.” This station is very popular, and I believe that El Zol would have a very hard time trying to compete with La Mega. They hold festivals, sponsor concerts, and do a lot of advertising. La Mega also has sister stations in Miami and Los Angeles, I believe. Something else that I should point out is that, although the vast majority of Latinos in the DC area come from Central America and Mexico, there are also large numbers of Latinos from South America. Perhaps aiming at a broader audience would be worthwhile. Plus, some of the most popular Latin American genres of music do not come from Central America—which can include: rock from countries like Argentina and Mexico (Argentina is famous for its rock en español), Brazilian music (which is in Portuguese), reggae from Jamaica (which is in English), and the newest Latin craze from Puerto Rico, reggaeton. Even English stations like Hot 99.5 are playing reggaeton. If you go to any Latin club in DC, you will hear more pop, reggaeton, hip-hop en español, and salsa than anything else. Also, by completely switching to Spanish, you are encouraging ostracism between the English-speaking community and the Spanish-speaking community. Many people speak both languages. This ultimately keeps the two communities apart, when music should be about transcending languages and cultures, especially in a modern, multi-racial society such as the one we live in. I would now like to make a suggestion: Perhaps a good idea would be to go back to rock, but also to incorporate Latin American music, thus creating a mix. This would re-attract former HFS fans, as well as open the door to the Latino community, and attract a larger audience than HFS previously did. Spanish-speakers will still listen to La Mega, but El Zol could allure the same people. Despite the popularity of rock en español, La Mega does not play it as often as it does other genres. El Zol should go back to rock, and add rock en español to its play list. This would please both communities, as well as introduce English-speakers to the world of rock in Spanish. It’s all rock, and they will like it. El Zol could be the first station to represent both communities equally, playing a blend of English and Spanish rock. That would truly be innovative, original, and profitable. I would like to thank you for taking the time to read my email and for taking my points into consideration. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this. Regards, Rachel La Russo (1/12/05)
www.junkiesradio.com - still up and running BUT very SLOW!!!!! The site is run by the guys and not the station so it shouldn't go down - but I'd like to see some info on where they'll be tomorrow! (1/12/05)
Dave's response: DCRTV is getting a huge spike in traffic today, too.....
I strongly suspect we will see WHFS arise again on another frequency. As was pointed out in a previous post, station management gave the Junkies passes to furture HFS events to auction for tsunami relief. It would be a blunder of extraordinary bad taste and ineptitude to do that if the whole station was going to be blown out in a few days. Additionally, all HFS imaging has mentioned Washington and NOT mentioned Baltimore for several months, perhaps as far back as the time Infinity shook hands with Spanish Broadcasting System. So, I would not be surprised to see 94.7 and/or 106.7 sporting different calls soon (the irony of having Cerphe and Weasal associated with "WHFS" again is not lost on me). Regards, Dave Loudin (1/12/05)
Dave's response: There's always hope. But it quickly goes away - being aware of Infinity's dismal track record with rock radio. Witness how it ran NYC's heritage rock WNEW into the ground.....
I hadn't listened to HFS in years, but that doesn't help the gut-wrenching I felt when I saw that the station is no longer. At first I was hoping this was an early April Fools from DCRTV. At least this makes me grateful for two things: 1) My SIRIUS radio (Channel 22 "1st Wave", classic alternative 24/7 commercial-free) 2) I've moved to Rhode Island and will be spared the potential of catching El Zol on a station scan. Good Bye 'HFS! (Now will Infinity have the decency to change the call letters?) Matt L. (1/12/05)
Infinity is a pack of shallow, greed-mongering weasels who would sell their own grandmother for 20 dollars. WHFS, while it had certainly become more commercial than it had been in the past (even in the 90s) still served a very important market, and had a loyal following. No offense to any Latin people who may be happy by this switch, but I personally am shocked that in our nation's capital, a station with a 30-year history would just be shoved aside for a Spanish-language station. I will also miss the Junkies. I had never gotten into any morning show before them, and listened to them religiously. This move by Infinity makes it very clear to me that what passes for American 'culture' has already been bought and sold a hundred times over, that media is simply commodity. To me this is the death knell for broadcast radio; it will never be the same to me. (1/12/05)
Hey Pedalman, who cares? Take the bumper sticker and shove it up your ass. What has that post got to do with radio, television or pertinence, Dave? (1/12/05)
Uggg.... By now, I am sure that you know that HFS is now a Spanish station… Man o man o man. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Loved Don "Johnny Patriot" Geronimo's comments today on the loss of yet another English language radio station in the DC area.....
I've been mourning the loss of HFS for about a decade. Today means nothing. BTW, I made the mistake of clicking on Dave's link to Radio and Records and found a big ad for Tammy Bruce staring back at me. I'll be having nightmares for weeks. Thanks, Dave. Howie (still listening to WTMD) (1/12/05)
Re: WHFS.... Do they have to continue paying the Junkies contract or are they done? Since it is Infinity, are they still contracted? What does this mean for DC 101s impending Spanish Flip? Are these two stations going to compete, not in rock, but in Spanish? Could that possibly happen? DC is definitely lacking good radio stations, and people wonder why satellite radio is getting bigger... (1/12/05)
Dave's response: I think they'll get paid in Mexican pesos for the remainder of their contract.....
Its funny how we heard how well HFS' bills despite their low ratings, especially in DC. Of course the signal helped but bottom line Infinity clearly feels they can make more money in the 25-54 Hispanic Demo than the 16-19 year olds they were going after or who were the only ones listening, okay I am overstating that a bit but you get the point. Clearly they were not billing as well as the suits thought but what perplexes me is putting this format on such a powerful stick. This is a little bit of a risk I would have to think. I would have thought they would have put it on 94.7 or on 106.7 and move 106.7 programming to 94.7. How can they put the Junkies on midday's when we are being told that Infinity is putting the hammer on WJFK-FM that they are bound to run O'Reilly midday's because he is with Westwood One and they want him to have a presence in DC especially since no Baltimore station carries him? I think it would be a good move if they put the Junkies on midday's. Most likely depending on what the edict from Infinity is on who WJFK-FM, Live 105, WYSP, etc have to run in the morning after Stern leaves-local or national will depend on whether D&M go to mornings or the Sports Junkies. -Michael (ESRTV) (1/12/05)
Wow... you ever go on a website and bash a show or a station, but then when it actually disappears your stomach drops. I'm gonna miss HFS, many an hour spent listening to that. More importantly, many a hot girl showed up for the HFStival, and I guess that is no more unless it becomes the HFS-carnivale! While I still think the Junks have long since been the great show they once were, I don't want them gone either, so I welcome them back wherever, as long as R&F or The Hideout aren't bothered. What scares me is this may be a larger coup attempt on 'JFK as maybe they'll put the Junkies back on there and re-launch the station as all sports, which would ruin, RUIN my day. I may mock Donnie G, but admittedly I don't want to see that show go anywhere either... here's hoping to this being the biggest, stupidest, most moronic radio stunt of all time and the Junkies will be back tomorrow doing the 'Los Junkiones' show. - Jason (1/12/05)
Dave's response: What's Spanish for "junkie"? I'll have to ask El Jefe.....
Except for "Subterranean w/ Zoltar" on Saturday nights, I gave up on 'HFS years ago. It's about time Infinity did something with the station, although I presonally would've preferred a switch to a CHR/dance format. My favorite 'HFS years were the early '90s when Bob Waugh & Rob Timm did mornings, Damien did middays, Weasel did afternoons, Katherine did evenings, & Aq did late evenings. Neci has always done overnights as long as I can remember! I guess she needs to find work elsewhere now. I'll always remember Damien & Weasel stumbling through announcing my name when I won 10 CDs at an 'HFS sponsored concert in Baltimore circa 1993. Oh, "Doctor Demento" used to be on Sunday nights after midnight too! RIP, 'HFS... - Greg from Beltsville (1/12/05)
No more Junkies website as of 2:10pm. buh-bye!!! I was thinking the same about WHFS staff being gathered and told about the changes as the PD was flipping the switch to radio en español. I did not hear any sarcastic remarks from the junkies this morning, and they did not sound mad, my guess, they were caught by surprise, ironically enough, just like a Tsunami. Maybe this is their tsunami. As a hispanic guy, I am glad that there is finally a radio with strong signal to reach the hispanic population. Emmanuel. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Yeah, I just clicked on the Junks' "Daily Hottie" on the right side of the DCRTV Mailbag and nothing happened. Maybe their site's still up, but just overloaded. Hmmm.....
Hey - I just saw your webpage and --- why the hell is WHFS now a hispanic station and no one's heard anything about this???????????? Thought you might know. ~Leah (1/12/05)
To the long time vets of WHFS thanks for the great entertainment through the years the best to all of you.....and funny how it seems, did XM advertise their baseball jobs......... huh no... can the FCC come down on them for that? (1/12/05)
HELLO ,I'M WONDERING WHY I HAVE SOME STUPID SPANISH JUNK ON MY RADIO , IN AMERICA!!!!! OR BETTER YET WHERE DID THE ALTERNATIVE MUSIC MOVE TOO?????AS AN ENGLISH SPEAKING AMERICAN I BELIEVE WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO GET ANSWERS. PEOPLE IN BALTIMORE AND D.C IF THEY WANT TO LISTEN TO SPANISH MUSIC FINE BUT DO IT IN A SPANISH SPEAKING COUNTRY!!!!!! THANKS FOR HELPING TO DETERIORATE AMERICA ANGRY LISTENER!!!!!!! REE (1/12/05)
I guess I get to figure out what station will replace my HFS preset now. It used to be I didn't have enough presets for stations I wanted to hear, now I have extra ones with nothing for them. I wish they would have put a Top 40/CHR on 99.1 instead of Spanish, doesn't 92.1 (or whatever freq. the Spanish station is on) already cover the same area almost?? On a happier note, I heard Big Don O'Brien give DCRTV a good plug this morning on WINX. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Mega's Spanish WBZS/WBPS is on 92.7 in Prince Frederick, which covers the eastern DC metro and southern Baltimore areas, and on 94.3 in Warrenton, which covers the western DC metro.....
WHAT THE H*LL HAS HAPPENED TO WHFS? SINCE WHEN DID THE STATION GO SPANISH? WHAT A BIG BIG BIG MISTAKE!! (1/12/05)
Dave's response: It took the plunge at noon.....
Anyone looking forward to the ZOL-Feztivel at RFK this year?!? Anyone hear who is performing?!? (1/12/05)
Dave's response: How about a WJFK-FM "Fez-Tival." That would be cool.....
With a half-million Hispanic Origin residents in the DC metro (and another 50,000 or so in the Baltimore market), we're probably overdue to have one of the Big Sticks to go after the demo and snatch all the money from the little guys who pioneered the format, locally. Still, from an Anglo perspective, it's hard to imagine that this is the optimum use of this great signal. Also hard to fathom how Infinity managed to piss away such a strong & longheld perception (in DC, at least) of WHFS as the cool, avant garde, cutting edge rocker. Are they really that inept? Or have we gotten to the point where the market for rock is too small to fool with anymore? (1/12/04)
Dave's response: How about this - Nassau buys Spanish rimshots 92.7 and 94.3 from Mega and flips them to adult album alternative.....
Too bad DC101 didn't switch to all Spanish. Elliot has used up his 15 minutes and Doni is a cheap sounding, well nevermind.......Buh-bye HFS! (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Hey, it might still happen.....
I was about to write to the mailbag and ask why I was hearing Spanish language programming on 99.1, but after looking at your front page I now know the answer. UFB!!!!!! XM, here I come. (1/12/05)
The junkies website was up as of 1:15pm. I wrote an e-mail asking what would happen to them? so far, no answer. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: What I'd do. Put the Junks on WJFK-FM from 11 AM to 3 PM. Then, when Stern leaves, put them back in evenings, move Don and Mike to morning drive and Ron and Fez to afternoon drive. Or something like that.....
i just called infinity broadcasting and as of 12:00, noon 1/12/05 HFS is "just gone" the format is now spanish music. So long old friend. Erin Glennon (1/12/05)
When the country ran Red in November, I went to one of those websites where one can create their own unique bumper stickers for a reasonable price. So I created one, in Repbulican Red that reads: BUSH'S AMERICA: THE MORON MAJORITY. I rode around for a week in Fredericksburg, where I live, and only got the stink-eye from one obvious Red Stater. You could tell by the NASCAR stickers on his Plymouth Reliant, his scraggly little whiskers and his Southern States logo cap. My usually rebellious wife, who hails from California, finally removed it for fear of vehicle damage in the Food Lion parking lot. Anybody out there got the agates to put one on their ride? Reply with your e-mail. I double-dog dare ya! Pedalman 550 (1/12/05)
From a VERY reliable source, the Junkies will be returning to WJFK-FM. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Any word on the timeslot?
Regarding the HFS flip to El Zol, I wonder how much of this the jocks really knew. I have a feeling they called everyone in at Noon & told them. As early as this morning, they were still giving away prizes on the Junkies, and qualifying people for a trip. During the Junkies' tsnuami relief effort/auction, they gave out passes to people who bid high enough for backstage passes to the HFSFestival & "HFS All Access Passes" to get into every show HFS did. Seems to me if HFS had told the airstaff that they were going to flip, they would have backed-off on handing out prizes. I for one would be PISSED if I had plopped over $1,000 for one of the "HFS All Access Passes" & now the station's gone. I'd sue. What an f-ing joke spanish stations are. Now I have to find something to replace "Preset #2" on my car stereo. (1/12/05)
Does anyone know why WBAL doesn't want Jim Hunter back? I guess it wouldn't matter anyway because he does most of the television games anyway. If they get rid of Hunter they should get rid of Joe Angel as well. Someone asked about Mel Procter the other day, well he is now the radio play-by-play voice of the Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA. (1/12/05)
Dave: I was shocked to read that WBAL wants to part ways with Jim Hunter. Could that be really true? Jim Hunter was the one who replaced Jon Miller when the heinous act of Peter Angelos chased Jon Miller out of Baltimore. Now the big question is how can we replace Jim Hunter with Jon Miller. Well I can dream, can't I? Marshall E. Feldman (1/12/05)
Get on Netflix and order the following: 'Waiting For Guffman,' 'Best In Show,' 'This is Spinal Tap,' and 'A Mighty Wind.' All are Chris Guest creations, most using an ensemble cast of Second City alums, and a definitive example of the gestalt created when one puts a group of highly talented comedic actors in the same room. Most of the really funny stuff in those movies is pure ad lib. Another great director, Robert Altman uses a similar technique to get one-of-a-kind moments for his movies. Burns a lot of film, but you are rewarded with stuff you could have never scripted. That, IMHO, is what filmmaking is all about. And while you're on Netflix, try finding old SNL shows from the early 80's when Guest and Martin Short were in the troupe. They did some precursor film pieces that I imagine led to the brilliant examples of pure filmmaking listed above. Pedalman 550 (1/12/05)
Regarding your front page post about Tom Davis and Phil Wood being back together again, actually they've been on WJFK-AM for quite a while now, at least since last Winter. They've aired after the now defunct Ken Rosenthal Show, from 12:00 - 3:00 except when there was a conflict with Navy Football broadcasts. And while I'm certainly not a big Jim Hunter fan, he's still head and shoulders above Joe Angel. Still don't know why they brought him back. Doug in Bel Air (1/12/05)
Rob Tim and Bob Waugh have been talking about what WHFS was and what the flip to (sic) Spanish means in the world of DC radio. A very cool show and a big kudos for the trip down memory lane. It is indeed a sad day for DC radio. (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Sadly, I won't miss WHFS. I gave up on it years ago. Musically, it's XM for me - XMU, Fred, Lucy, Ethel.....
I wish to thank the poster who responded with a confirmation of the Katie Couric ejaculation on the Today show Monday the 10th. My point, though, was not get confirmation on the Hollyweird break-up, but to point out how facile Couric has become by admitting that, while the ".. tsunami was, like really bad, when I heard about Brad and Jennifer, I just had to call the newsdesk." I inferred that she thought the violent death of 150,000 people paled in comparision to two actors breaking up. I guess in the final analysis, it's the Lowest Common Denominator which will decide the importance of global events. What's next, I'm pissed because the mudslide caused my dad to divert the money he was going to spend on my new Hummer to rebuilding our house? Book me a flight to Canada. Pedalman 550 (1/12/05)
To "The Frank": You should consider changing your first name to Richard. Then you can sign yourself (all together now...) "The Dick" (1/12/05)
I bet Robb Timm is having a bit of a chuckle right now. The end of an era indeed. Farewell WHFS...you indeed were legendary at one point in time. Now you're just a laughing stock. Who knew radio stations could carry the "has-been" title. (1/12/05)
Hey! Anybody remember Tom Terrell from the WHFS "Sunday Reggae Splashdown"? I recently heard him as commentator on NPR! His story was about a reggae boxed set now available. It was great to hear from Terrell. Back in the '80's, we'd put his show straight from the radio onto cassette, spots and all, just to hook onto his groove. He really know how to put a show together, and give a true lesson in the musicological history of reggae and associated genres. Pedalman 550 (1/12/05)
RE: WHFS going Spanish What are going to be the ripple effects of this arbitrary, bone headed move? Even FM radio in Mexico City have better music than the narrowcast of tropical music Who is going to actually pick up the alternative rock format now? DC 101 is not alternative. (1/12/05)
Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh may be among the group of idiots referenced, but I'm going to go out on a limb and declare that these idiots know how to spell 'endearing'. Anyone heard any good radio lately? (1/12/05)
Turn on HFS (1/12/05)
Hola! Donde esta HFS? HAHAHAH (1/12/05)
I think HFS is actually finally dead...Check out whfs.com. (1/12/05)
Hello, Do you have any idea what is going on at WHFS???? The station seems to have gone Latin in the middle of programming!!! I tried to call HFS, but there was no answer. Please help with any info you can!! phill (1/12/05)
Turn on WHFS, all new spanish station. Crazy!! (1/12/05)
It's true!!! I an in SHOCK! WHFS is now SPANISH!! Holy S***! (1/12/05)
RE: 99.1 WHFS--I just tried going to their website--and this is what I got: "While trying to retrieve the URL: www.elzol991.comindex_mp.php... The following error was encountered: Unable to determine IP address from host name for unknown server name". El Zol, huh? Sounds spanish to me.....hmmmmm......... (1/12/05)
January 12, 2005 - INFINITY BROADCASTING LAUNCHES SPANISH-LANGUAGE STATION IN WASHINGTON, D.C. - "El Zol" 99.1 FM To Feature A Mix Of Salsa, Merengue and Bachata..... Infinity Broadcasting announced today the launch of a new Spanish-language radio station in Washington, D.C. "El Zol" 99.1 WHFS-FM will play a current hit blend of Caribbean and Central American dance music and is targeted to adults 25-54. The station launched today at 12:00 Noon. Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. served as a consultant to and advised Infinity on the reformatting of the station. Infinity previously announced a joint strategic alliance with SBS in October 2004 which included an equity interest in the largest Hispanic-controlled radio broadcasting company in the United States. "We have made clear our desire to expand into this burgeoning market and believe this move marks an important step in our commitment to Spanish radio," said Joel Hollander, President and Chief Operating Officer, Infinity Broadcasting. "There exists a tremendous opportunity for Infinity to launch a Spanish-language format in Washington, D.C. where almost 10% of the population is not being directly served. El Zol will be the most powerful Spanish radio station in the area and will provide listeners with the music, entertainment and information relevant to the many segments of the Latino culture." The Hispanic population in Washington, D.C. has grown more than 25% in the last four years to an excess of 400,000, and is expected to continue to be the fastest growing segment of the metro area in the coming years. During the station's initial launch phase, El Zol will play hits from such artists as Juan Luis Guerra, Marc Anthony, Hermanos Rosario, Monchy Y Alexandra, and Victor Manuelle, among others. On-air personalities will be announced at a later date. Infinity is one of the largest major-market radio operators in the United States, with stations covering the news, modern rock, oldies, country, FM talk, classic rock and urban formats, among others. A division of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIAB), Infinity operates 183 radio stations, the majority of which are in the nation's top 50 markets and reach more than 70 million listeners a week. Additionally, Infinity is home to 29 of the country's leading sports franchises amongst MLB, the NFL, the NBA and the NHL. (1/12/05)
My dear Dave, May I say that you are about to get a mention in the hometown paper the AJC, our Atlanta Journal Constitution. What was I thinking when I started to blog media news in Atlanta and also fill prescriptions on the side. As you know my Keminications media site was inspired by your site DCRTV and on the day I left Baltimore 8/2/03, I told you I will be doing the same when I got here. I am the sole person reporting this kind of news here and have captured the market. Even Charlotte NC, TV gave me a mention. Mary Booth Thomas, a real estate editor at the AJC interviewed me yesterday 1/11/05 and sent a photographer here Saturday to take pics of me and the kids. The feature is a Living section piece which has the theme of how I am a full time pharmacist and part time reporter blogging three major sites from my home office providing these free news services to Atlanta. www.ATLcelebritynews.com, www.healthlanta.com and Keminications. The first question on the one hour interview was : WHAT OR WHO INSPIRED YOU TO DO KEMINICATIONS? My answer was a guy called Dave Hughes who created DCRTV.com blogging media news in the DC/Baltimore area. I told her to give you all my props in this article! FYI, I live in Conyers, GA and the site also caught the attention of the Rockdale Citizen which is the local surburb paper www.rockdalecitizen.net. Type "Kemi" in the archives and you will find the 12/15/04 article they wrote. Log on to AJC.com on 1/22/05 real estate section and I will physically mail you a hard copy too. We are getting ready for our first anniversary party too. LOVE YOU DAVE and Keep up the good work!!!!!! Kemi Lane , Managing Editor, MultipleTalent Online Media (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Cool.....
In reply to Paul's statement that Dan Rather is somehow ethically challenged because he thinks the Guard story still has "legs", I don't see the connection. CBS screwed up a valid report by using shoddy supporting evidence. Heads rolled. That doesn't mean that the report in totality, Ben Barnes etc., is invalid. The story should still have legs. It's just that someone else other than CBS will have to be gutsy enough, or payola-free enough, to investigate. BTW, how come Jeff Greenfield and Chris Vlasto never walked the plank at ABC for their shoddy Clinton reporting? And no one walks the plank for the stuff made up at Faux News everyday. Howie (1/12/05)
Yes, 98 Rock has been streaming live for about 3 months, now. Emmanuel. (1/12/05)
OK, Any truth to something I heard today that today was the Junkies last show because WHFS is going all Spanish and that the Junkies are returning to WJFK mid days? Sounds like BS I know, but I heard it from a good "inside " source. James (1/12/05)
Scott (Tower Geek) Fybush observes "But the biggie, spacing-wise, is WJFK-FM. It's only 77.2 km from WARX to WJFK-FM, against a spacing requirement of 169 km. If that's a pre-1964 grandfathered short-spacing - and I'm not entirely sure that it is, since I don't think 106.7 was on that early - WARX can't increase the amount of interference between it and WJFK-FM no matter where it moves. There's also a short-spacing to the north, with WCPP 106.7 in Hershey PA. I'm pretty sure that one *is* pre-1964. Lots of tricky engineering here." There may be even more to the story, since WARX operated with Class A power (3-kw) from the AM stick down in Hagerstown for many years--until 10 or 15 years ago. If I remember correctly, when WARX moved to the mountaintop, I think they negotiated a deal with Hershey (and JFK???) to operate without any kind of mutual protection. Might be something on the books, somewhere. Anyway, ARX was the last of the 3 to kick up to full Class B operation. (1/12/05)
If WTEM gets the Nationals (both the name of the team and the logo are terrible, by the way) and 1260 is getting rid of sports, what happens to the contractual obligations to broadcast the Wizards and Capitals (when they start up again)? If Abe and Ted were smart, they would take their teams somewhere else. They are horribly treated by Clear Channel and WTEM anyway. (1/12/05)
Re: Whahappened?...NOT "Best in Show" but "Mighty Wind". (1/12/05)
Wasn't "Whahappened?" actually from "A Mighty Wind"???? (1/12/05)
"Whahappened?" is from "A Mighty Wind," not "Best in Show." Both are Christopher Guest mockumentaries and both a very, very funny. Guy in Frederick. (1/12/05)
As it pertains to Michael "wha happen'd" Hughes, A very annoying manager in a pretty crappy company. (1/12/05)
QUOTING #1: "The "whahappened?" reference is from "Best in Show." Actually, I'm pretty sure this is from a similar movie by the same filmmakers, "A Mighty Wind." QUOTING #2: Paul in Montgomery County calls himself "The Silent Majority". Yeesh, if that's the silent majority, I shudder to think what the loud, shrill majority would be like... (1/12/05)
The poster with the info on the phrase "whahappened?" got it almost all right, except for the movie title: it was from "A Mighty Wind", not "Best in Show". Willard's funniest line in "Best of Show" was something like, "to think that in some countries these dogs are eaten..." (1/12/05)
All your facts are correct, except the name of the movie. The movie was "A Mighty Wind", not "Best In Show" as stated in your post. Andrew Fauver (1/12/05)
The last time I heard anything about Stacey Williams was when she was doing afternoon traffic on WRQX. I haven't heard her for awhile. Is she ok or has she had a recurrence of cancer? I wish her well and good health. Thanks JH (1/12/05)
Hey Dave: FYI....98 Rock is streaming online again, not sure for how long but I just noticed. I want to say that they ceased their stream back in 2002? Also, my stomach dropped when I read your WBAL/Orioles update last night. Maybe its a personal issue at the station, but Jim Hunter is hands down the best play-by-play sportscaster in the area (especially now that Herzog is gone)....inept replacement Joe Angel can't even compare. I'm hoping that the Orioles are pushing for Hunter to remain, though if these rumblings hold true, perhaps he will be moved permanently to television, which really just blows since baseball is really a radio sport. -Nick from Rockville & Boston (1/12/05)
"About 10 years ago Lisa Willis also worked at Fox 45 any news about her thank you, roger leidner " Roger, I was told by someone at the time that she had left the business completely to concentrate on other interests. I believe she wanted to concentrate on being a painter. However, when I moved here to Grand Bahama, my local TV stations were in Miami/Ft Lauderdale, and I noticed her name on the Channel 10 reporter board. I visited the website, but she had left already and there were no further details. She was very pleasant, did a lot of running, quite a bit of charity work, I believe, and I noticed that she sometimes read the news in bare feet! Steve Davies (1/12/05)
It is kind of hard to show respect to a guy who starts a conversation, or in this MAILBAG post, calling someone chump and shithead, right "The Frank"? It is funny how Republicans, or lets call it conservatives like you do "The Frank", tend to become very cocky in these times when our "dear" president is a republican, right? I wish I had heard what indearing Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, and these other idiots were saying on their respective shows while Clinton was our President. Hmmm, that will have been a real treat, right "The Frank"? Just blame it on the liberals, right, "The Frank"? (1/12/05)
To: the Frank...hey, you spewed a bunch of hatred, directed at Dave. What's up with you? It's a free country, he's the owner of this site, he can express any opinions he'd like and that's that! You assume that ANYONE that reads and participates on this site can be swayed by Dave's opinions, c'mon. Add to that, Pot-shotting his mother, now THAT's low.PLB:0) (1/12/05)
Dave's response: "Pot-shotting" my mother? Oooookay.....
(RE: Can anyone confirm the following: On Monday's (1/10/05) Today show, sometime around the 7:30 to 8:00 o'clock hour, Katie Couric had some Hollywood type on the show to talk about Brad and Jennifer Pitt breaking up....) CONFIRMED! I heard it myself while I was getting ready for work yesterday morning! She even said she called the NBC news desk to see if the break-up was true! She, as many in the "real world", were shocked to see this almost normal and very down-to-earth Hollywood A list couple split and just couldn't believe it. She also made mention that she would go on vacation with "someone she's just broke up with" referring to Brad & Jen on vaca with best friends Courtney and David (and little Coco) over New Years. (1/12/05)
Ron Smith and Armstrong Williams-ethical twins separated at birth? Howie (1/12/05)
Print this, dickweed. - 'AIR AMERICA' RATINGS TURBULENCE IN NY CITY: Surprising many observers who expected it to shine during election season, all-liberal upstart WLIB (1190 AM) -- base station for Al Franken and Janeane Garofalo -- actually headed south, shedding 15% of its summer audience to finish fall at 24th place in just-released ARBITRONS... (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Thank you mjapr@aol.com.....
The Frank: I bet you were first in line to buy the O' Reilly Welcome Mat. His site has a NEW special item. Just for his ''biggest supporters.'' It's the ''Factor Hammer It Home Dildo.'' It even has his picture on it. AND if ya squeeze it, it says, ''What say you, sir?'' It must be fun to sit around and listen on the radio and watch a clown who tries to pass himself off as Super Catholic and he fighting for ''the little guy'' while every thing he spews can easily be called into question. Personally, I think the only thing O'Reilly cares about is his ''little guy.'' Paul (1/12/05)
The "whahappened?" reference is from "Best in Show." Fred Willard's character claims to have made that phase famous in a defunct sitcom. Very annoying character in a pretty funny movie. (1/12/05)
So the Gnats will be on WTEM. Only the eldest among us will remember that the old Senators were nicknamed the "Nats" .... and that the Pogo comic strip lampooned their incompetence the "Gnats". (1/12/05)
hey dave, As far as I know 'Beer Radio" is not on 105.7 in Baltimore I wish it was. Jones Radio will see to it that we are on another station. Big Don O'Brien (1/12/05)
How on earth is it possible for WJFK 106.7 or whoever to take Kevin Kiley, who I've always thought was great, and Ken Mease, the first of the big talents to be unceremoniously screwed by Channel 9, and create a piece of junk like "Man To Man"? I'd be happy to listen to the two of them with the occasional guest, but whose bright idea was it to stick them in a bar where the drunks are so loud Kiley/Mease have to scream to be heard above the din? Last time I heard Kiley he was stuck with marble-mouth Rich "The Coach" Gilgalen; now he has to broadcast from some greasy spoon, shoved into a corner booth with the Loud Family. Sometimes it just doesn't pay to be talented. On another topic: "Marlboro Country" was actually performed by Charlie Pickett and The Eggs. Its on their album "Cowboy Junkie Augogo," and I haven't seen a copy in about 1000 years. Please keep an eye out for "Torpedo" by Havana Let's Go; that's my 102.3 lost 45. Dave In Sterling. (1/12/05)
Does anyone remember WMOD-FM's Essex on Sunday nights in the late '60's? Used to get a good signal on the Fisher 700T with a Radio Shack deep-fringe VHF/UHF/FM antenna from Lexington Park. (1/12/05)
The WARX move might be a positive move to the oldies market on the west side of Baltimore if they keep the same format. We receive it loud and clear in Randallstown and moving it closer to Baltimore might give WQSR a run for their money in the oldies market. WARX's play list is bigger and better than WQSR's monotonous 100 song play list. Ken Merson's oldies knowledge and talent could be put to much better use at a station like WARX! Gary in Randallstown. (1/12/05)
Hi Dave--a couple of things--first your response to my post re A. Williams "Dave's response: Well, I'm not alone is "digging at" Williams' "integrity" these days. What's funny is that if Williams was a lefty commentator and had taken money from the Clinton adminstration, Rush Limbaugh would be screaming bloody murder. But his silence is absolutely deafening. Hmmm....." Dave, please. Don't pee on my leg and tell me its raining. According to all media sources, Rather still thinks that the story( Bush's) has legs. Dave, no one has ever questioned Williams' integrity until the charge was made, and he IMMEDIATELY owned up to it. THAT IS THE DIFFERENCE!!!!!! Having said that, I won't assume that in a reverse situation as you described, that a Lib commentator would not be forthcoming immediately as well. Dave, I WILL admit that I wondered to myself how Clintoon was gonna last for eight years without "getting some strange" (I apologize Ladies--I am showing my age)---but Dave, you do NOT have to be a Repub, or a Conservative, to tell the truth when you're caught-(I think that the REAL problem is that you guys have NEVER gotten over Viet Nam or Nixon)--so how about ditching the sarcasm?! Even SNL this last Sat. nite saw no problem with lampooning GWB's choice of Condi Rice to replace Powell as Sec. of State, joking that "once you go Black...." and they didn't have the balls to finish the cliche. Dave, when you guys realize at some point that YOU are hurt by your words, and NOT "us" (Limbaugh, etc.), then you can go onto being a member of the honest, loyal oppposition. In the meantime, what was funny 30 years ago just doesn't do it anymore. I keep telling you to treat yourself, and us, better--you deserve it, and so do we. The Silent Majority, NOT a Jerry Falwell clone, just trying to engage you in earnest debate, I remain humbly--(well, sort of) Paul in Montgomery County (1/12/05)
Dave's response: Hey Paul, met "The Frank" (message below). Sounds like you two have a lot in common, like a love for WMAL.....
"Dildocam?!" Dave, whassamatter chump..uh, "chum?" Still pissed at the election that O-HIGH-O (round in middle, high both ends LOL) "stole" (yeah right) from you? Dammit to hell you liberal fascist shithead, I haven't even fucking bothered to post here in several months and even wonder if I should strain my eyes to peruse this ongoing "I hate Bush, Rush and O'Reilly, et.al." site, so disguised as a "radio/TV" site! Sure, I love checking out the posts whenever I can actually find nuggets of INFORMATION, in-between all the WMAL diatribes; the Rush ad hominems; the O'Reilly sucks statements; the Bush is worst president ever dronings...etc. I know I had told you some while back I would kinda put the reins on "slamming" your injections (!!!) of personal hatred (opinions, I guess), but do you REALLY expect for people to take you seriously when you act like this on a website that seemingly is for the discussion of broadcasting-related issues, not for the incessant spewing of your tired old wise-ass cracks out the wazoola! You keep saying, "No hate mail, please!" after some of your juvenile comments, but when other posters make "personal attacks" you threaten to cut 'em off the mailbag (not post their message), or try no less to act as the "Great Mediator" to try to bring about "peace." PUH-LEASE!!! You just simply need to put a sock in it, sir. Oh by the way, I'm sorry for the passing of your mother..but heck I'd like to think she instilled some respect and tolerance for others in you? I hope so, but I guess you kinda "outgrew" that when you started up this website? Or did you gradually get "meaner" as you realized over time that your homeboy Clinton would not be allowed more than 2 terms, and "W" would be in charge? And by the way, I'm probably more tolerant of others (even as a "cornservative") than you may think; yes, I'm pissing all over you now (figuratively), but it's only 'cause you're using this site as a tool to promote and encourage hatred and intolerance for anyone that doesn't believe the way you do..politically or whatever. If you want my respect (even if I disagree with your views), why not at least call this site something like, "DCRTV and IH8REPUGS" (I hate Republicans); at least that way your website name will more adequately reflect what the site is "really" all about! Stop pretending this site ain't about spreading discord and simply "dissin" any and all that's opposed to your "healthy liberal" way 'o thinking, okay? And yes, I know you said this is your site and you'll do whatever you want. Yes, but also don't be surprised if you don't happen to make any shit of a "living" off it, especially considering I'll never send you a freaking red CENT with this shit perpetuating like it is. Call me a "moocher", but that's the way it is. -The Frank (1/12/05)
Dave, your headline about the Nats and WTEM should read "O's lose powerful signaled DC radio affiliate, the mother of all MLB anti-trust lawsuits pending!" WTEM might have an iffy signal in northern VA, but it has a great signal in the Maryland DC suburbs, day AND night, daytime even to Baltimore quite well. I wonder if Angelos is holding out on the WBAL contract while dangling it to Infinity Baltimore (WJFK 1300 or another Infinity station) to keep Infinity from bidding seriously on the Nats deal. Angelos may be quiet, but believe me, a LOT is going on unbeknownst to us all. Should be interesting in the next couple weeks. (1/12/05)
My apologies for neglecting to sign the posting of 1/3. My most profuse apologies for neglecting to mention the name of Larry Cooley. In the early/mid 60s, Larry Cooley figured prominently in many (most?) of the shenanigans that occurred in that venerable old building. Larry and I hung together for some time, until I left the area to take an announcing job in New England. Larry and I also worked across the street from WINX, at the Board of Education. The trio was completed by Mike Henley, who played piano with the local group, The Hangmen." Sam Sacko got Pierre Eaton to let me read the news, weather and sports during Sam's show. I got the experience, and Sam got to spend more time on the phone with those ladies who had the beehive hairdos. Eventually, Pierre gave me a regular weekend show. After a time, I moved up the road to work at WHMC for Nick Chaconas. I think I still hold two records from WHMC. One: I think I worked for Nick longer than anyone else, and... Two: I believe I was fired by Nick more times than anyone else. Oh.., that recording studio on the first floor at WINX saw a lot of interesting action too. The stories I could tell. Chris Telladira (1/12/05)
Can someone tell me who's responsible for the "whahappened?" expression that I've heard on the Don & Mike show as well as recently in the DCRTV mailbag?..Is it Chris Rock or who??..A couple of friends of mine & I have been trying to figure this out for weeks.. (1/12/05)
The relaxed spacing rules apply to stations that were on the air before the current rules took effect in 1964 and which have remained continuously short-spaced (under the 1964 rules) ever since. WARX, WWMX and WRQX were all on the air before 1964 - but they aren't short-spaced. Second-adjacent class B stations have to be at least 74 km apart. It's 84.6 km to WWMX from WARX, 76.3 km to WRQX. Any move WARX makes has to respect the spacing rules - either remaining 74 km from both or using a directional antenna to protect the contours of WWMX and WRQX. (WARX would have been better off if it *had* been short-spaced; pre-1964 short-spaced second- and third- adjacents have absolutely NO spacing limitations, which is how 97.5 from Trenton NJ is about to become a Philly signal.) But the biggie, spacing-wise, is WJFK-FM. It's only 77.2 km from WARX to WJFK-FM, against a spacing requirement of 169 km. If that's a pre-1964 grandfathered short-spacing - and I'm not entirely sure that it is, since I don't think 106.7 was on that early - WARX can't increase the amount of interference between it and WJFK-FM no matter where it moves. There's also a short-spacing to the north, with WCPP 106.7 in Hershey PA. I'm pretty sure that one *is* pre-1964. Lots of tricky engineering here. I'm sure Nassau knows what it's doing, but I can't quite piece it all together myself just yet. - Tower Geek Fybush (1/12/05)
That seals the deal for me. With WTEM getting the Washington Nationals I'm going to pony up the money for XM Radio. I know that XM will relay all the home team flagship broadcasts, but I'll be damned if I'm going to contribute another second of my precious life to listening to a Clear Channel station that won't upgrade it's ground radials and signal to be a truly city grade station. Or spend another dollar on advertisers from a station that refuses to produce decent caliber local programming instead of just flipping the bird (satellite) most of the day. I consider WTEM to be a "lost frequency" along with AMs that have gone multilingual or dark. You can find me with an XM MyFi or SkyFi2 tuned into the away team broadcasts when the Nats are out of town and parked in front of the TV or in the stands when they're at home. The smartest thing XM's Hugh Panero could have done is broken ground and signed XM as the first satellite based flagship of a MLB team and let the affiliates take the XM origination feed. After all, the Nationals and XM are both right here in DC & it would have been 1000 times better than whatever piss poor "high school game on a phone line" quality sideshow WTEM will be sending out. Hey BZ, do us all a favor and throw yourself out with the first pitch. Talk about a high and tight ass! (1/12/05)
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