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DCRTV Mailbag - June 21 to June 25, 2007
Latest messages listed first.....
\/ June 25 Messages \/
With so much in terms of movies and TV shows being filmed in and around Baltimore ( John Waters, The Wire, Homicide: Life On the Street, etc.... ) had me wondering. Have there been any TV shows filmed in Virginia? Movies? I can think of only two films made in Virginia, strangely both involving amusement parks and both from the 70s. "Rollercoaster" at Kings Dominion and The Death of Ocean View Park down in Norfolk. Over the years I heard a variety of reasons why there isn't much in the way of filming done in Virginia ranging to politics to a lack of "big cities" in Virginia. Hey Virginia Beach has a population of over 400,000 that sounds like a big city to me, then again Virginia Beach doesnt really have a "downtown" unlike most other cities. A friend of mine once told me that Virginia really doesnt like much in the way of filming of TV shows/movies within its borders. Somehow I find that very hard to believe. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: That new "Evan Almighty" film was filmed in Crozet VA, near Charlottesville. I believe the 1997 film "The Apostle" starring Robert Duval was also filmed in Virginia. I think a few civil war movies, like maybe "Gods And Generals," have been filmed in the Old Dominion. There are lots of Washington DC-based films that make use of locations in Northern Virginia, the most recent being "Breach" with Ryan Phillipe, which has some scenes of that big communications tower at Tysons Corner. Dulles Airport, also in Virginia, is in many films, including some of those "Airport" movies. Those scenes of the Jody Foster character's childhood in the Midwest in the film "Contact" were actually filmed in Herndon. Also, Richmond is occasionally used as a cheap substitute for location scenes in some flicks. That old Hitchcock film "Marnie" has scenes set in Middleburg, and I assume they were filmed on location. Parts of "Borat" were filmed in Southern Virginia. I'm pretty sure that Virginia, like most other states, does its best to encourage film companies to come here. Why not. It brings revenue to the state.....
Dave, I was not sure if you had this one. This shows the panel for WCBM-FM too (WWMXnow) This was from the old Music Fair Road site, now gone.. (6/25/07)I hear from sources on the scene that George Michael and his entourage stormed out of the Emmy Awards when he did not win the "Best Sports Anchor" Emmy. Once again proof he is a real horse's ass. Classy move, dude. (6/25/07)
I wonder how the people that donated money to WGTS are feeling right now. WGTS had solicited donations from the public to buy new equipment...a new transmitter...and a move to a new tower. What do they tell the people that have donated? That they are SOL? My guess - is you'll be seeing some lawsuits from the people that donated to WGTS - should they flip formats. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: That happens all the time. How do folks who donated bucks to WETA-FM last year, when it was news and talk, feel now that it's flipped to classical music? You make your donation and you take your chances.....
Dear Dave...thank you for allowing me to wish a happy birthday to everyone at WMZQ....20 years ago this august I had the great pleasure of breaking into radio on WMZQ...working with two of the greatest ever..Jim London and Mary Ball...lets not forget the one and only Gordon Barnes doing the weather....happy birthday MZQ....thanks for giving me a career.....Rich "da coach" Gilgallon (6/25/07)
Congrats to Waldorf, Maryland!...... You're new proud owner of a Liberty University FM translator on 104.7! Enjoy! :-) (6/25/07)
Apparently it's Liberty University Day at the FCC...... More shout outs to Newport News, Chantilly, and Aquia Harbor Virginia for your new Liberty U FM stations! Enjoy! :-) (6/25/07)
Dave, the website www.laradio.com submitted by Bill Powers contains a great feature called "Where Are They Now?" A similar feature for DC radio personalities might be a very interesting addition for your site. (6/25/07)
Since this is a site that thrives on nit-picking, I'll go ahead and point out that Brian Eno--while definitely a modern composer--ain't American. Born in Suffolk, UK, I believe. However, I have to admit that I'm very much enjoying the recent spate of posts from Genghis Cohen. Well done, sir! (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Dead finks don't talk.....
Very interesting stuff today about Free/fm's being flipped. The Free/fm in San Diego, according to information we all got on Friday, was supposed to switch to "103.7 K-Surf" and be 60s and 70s oldies. That was just a ruse though to throw off the competition. If you want to see the whole article on it, log on to www.laradio.com as one source to read about it. The part that bothers me about the switch is all the deceit involved, but now San Diego just has another Jack clone. Bill Powers, back in L.A. (6/25/07)
Snyder needs more than the dough. He needs non-profit status (all jokes aside about the Redskins or Johnny Rockets performance). Otherwise, private wealthy individuals and businesses o're the land would be offering large sums for non-comm frequencies left and right. If he has a 501c3 foundation, it could buy WGTS, if it can show sufficient ability to run the station. Flipping it to Salem or any group would almost assuredly have the FCC on him in a jiff. License transfer of non-comms is a very complicated process, though easier if an established non-comm broadcaster is taking over the station. Even then, the public can really jam things up. Currently, Minnesota Public Radio is in its third year of running the classical station formerly owned by St. Olaf's College in nearby Northfield. There are still threats of lawsuits over trusts that funded the station, and the president - a capable administrator with a good record - is gone. (6/25/07)
Sirius has a frequency finder courtesy of Recnet.com… fmchannel.sirius.com For your zip it says… 1) 98.1, 2) 96.7, 3) 98.3, 4) 102.9, 5) 106.3... (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Hey, while driving around Northern Virginia I can sometimes get Richmond TVR on 98.1, a Hagerstown station on 96.7, Winchester's Kiss on 98.3, and country from southern MD on 102.9. It seems to be that 87.9 would be the best freak for my 20191 Zip.....
Regarding anonymous’ prayerful conjuring of the ‘Salem – 91.9 – sale of WAVA’ issue (and his curiosity as to my viewpoint on the matter), I would say that one needs to look at Salem’s track record in its recent station transactions to gain some insight as to what degree they would be interested in WGTS. I’d say probably not at all. Salem recently sold Baltimore’s 1230 AM to the Peter & John Radio Fellowship. P&J also owns 95.1 WRBS. In spite of numerous offers received in the past decade from secular groups, Salem chose a ministry-based broadcaster when they finally sold the former WITH. Based on that history, I am confident that Salem is receiving significant overtures from Mr. Snyder (and other secular companies) to sell WAVA…but overtures are all they’ll likely ever be. With all due to respect to the owner of Washington’s football team and his broadcast organization, I see little if any success coming from their efforts, regardless of round robin station deals, players to be named later, or any other way Triple X seeks to configure or sweeten the offer. With further due respect to anonymous’ observations, a company such as Salem may be corporate in its business structure, but if true ministry is their focus in operating WAVA, then they take that responsibility as being to the Lord and His message more so than the pursuit of lucre. After all, why should they concern themselves with a zealous pursuit of money? The Lord owns the ‘cattle on a thousand hills’ and everything is His anyway. Bob Mathers – Seattle, Washington (6/25/07)
to the poster who wrote, "Yeah, that's a real big scoop by Dave Feldman. WTF? Feldman's also the nimrod who did a recent package about the calamity of men and women using a different-sized softball in co-ed leagues when, in fact, the different balls have been used nationally for 15 years. He's also the guy who tries to get one of his harem into sporting events without a ticket or press pass. What a tool" You are a moron, get a life. When was the last time you broke a story like Tiger's baby? Yes it's a HUGE deal because now Tiger will play in the tournament at Congressional. As for the softball story, who says it was Feldman's story idea? So until you have something sensible to say, shut your trap. (6/25/07)
'WMAL hosts treat disagreeing callers badly, calling them names and using the volume and cut off buttons to the host's advantage" - when did Don and Mike switch to 'MAL? (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Hey, now that Don doesn't appear to be so obsessed with his ratings and/or internet postings about him, it seems to be a better show. Doncha think? More laid back and free-flowing.....
According to news reports, come July Virginia will implement a bunch of DMV based fees for bad drivers. If you're convicted of reckless driving (20 miles over the speed limit) or drunk driving, or driving on a suspended license, you'll have to pay up to $3000 in DMV fees IN ADDITION to your traffic infraction fines. The kicker is - these Virginia DMV fees apply ONLY (!!!) to legal residents of Virginia. They don't apply to illegal aliens, who technically don't have an address in the state, even if they reside there. Has WMAL started hyping this? If not, it's going to make a lot of Virginia damn mad at their idiot legistators!!! - Matt in Woodbridge (6/25/07)
Despite all the hoopla, WETA-FM is a disaster in its' present incarnation as a classical music station. The selections are boring, repetitive and shallow. "New" composers (particularly American post 1920's) are given practically no airtime, and what's aired seems to be chosen on the basis of being able to fit in-between announcements. Somebody there definitely has a Gershwin fetish, as that's all there seems to be worth playing of US composers in their estimation. I've certainly heard better on WQXR and WFMT, New York and Chicago's private sector classical music staions. Hell, I've heard better on Princeton and University of New Mexico's college FM'ers (which both broadcast at least half of their 24 hour day in classical). We're living in a new golden age of American composers; would it kill the de-facto NPR "flag-ship" to run some Phillip Glass, Steve Reich, John Adams or Brian Eno every now and then? GMS in its heyday of the 1990's routinely broadcasts of newly commissioned works, something that WETA might consider. Genghis Cohen (6/25/07)
Dan Snyder would have the same results Salem would have in trying to buy a non-comm. Why would it be easier for Snyder than Salem to buy 91.9? I think your original thought about WETA (or possibly WAMU) buying it would be much more likely. Some other possibilities: Georgetown or DCU might want to get back in the radio game, Maryland abandons 88.1 for 91.9, GW starts up a station, or we get C-Span Radio 2. Barring that, there are doznes of non-comm religious operators with deep pockets to purchase the station. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: As long as Dan Snyder's got the dough, he could buy 91.9 if Columbia Union College is willing to sell. Now, where Snyder would get into trouble is when he'd try putting commercial sports programming on the non-commercially-licensed station. It would be easier for Salem to put religious programming on a non-commercial station - just witness the plethora of religious stations currently operating with non-comm licenses in between 88 and 92 FM. Take a drive out to Winchester. I can't see Georgetown or UDC getting back into the radio game, but what about Baltimore public radio outlet WYPR moving into the DC market? Haven't they said they wanted to do that? Hmmm.....
Does anyone have any info on the HD radio company Radiosophy? I unfortunately bought one of their radios. It took them 2 months to ship it; it turned out to be a worthless piece of junk that stopped working after an hour. I sent it back, and never got a refund. Now they're not answering their phones. I was hoping for some semblance of customer service before filing a claim with Visa... (6/25/07)
Dave, Salem would not buy WGTS - FM, since it's frequency is on the noncommercial band side of the spectrum. Maybe WETA would. Don't forget from 91.9 and below are noncommercial frequency allocations. Kevin (6/25/07)
Dave's response: I know that. Doesn't religious Salem have any non-commercial licenses anywhere? They probably do. OK. How about this. Dan Snyder buys 91.9 and "gives" it to Salem along with 92.7, 94.3, and 730 in exchange for 105.1. Dan would get an "inside the Beltway" stick for the Redskins and Triple X, and Salem would get four area radio stations - three commercials ops and one non-comm. Giving it five signals in total, with 780. Salem would keep the contemporary Christian music format on 91.9, but it would slap its "Fish" brand on it. Hmmm.....
What's up with WYRE (810)? I noticed Saturday that they had dropped KHZ and were back to Spanish. Still Spanish today. The KHZtv.com web site is still as broken as ever. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: My guess is that the KHZ tunes are aired when 810 has unsold airtime among its broked Spanish programming.....
"Hello all. I am a new subscriber to XM radio....Can anyone suggest a decent FM dial position to use? I've tried several, and am satisfied with none of them. Thanks in advance" I am in Calvert co. and I find setting that best works for me is 88.5 or 88.9 depending on if the solar storms do not bother my car! (6/25/07)
Dave's response: However, you could turn a corner and have Diane Rehm come blasting in in the middle of Left Of Center. Scary.....
(Dave's response: Yeah, you're right. Golly! That one article has changed my whole view of the Post's coverage of local radio. Get real, buddy. As for the Post and its wonderous and accurate coverage of local radio, check out my 6/23 Rant.....) Sounds like someone has a problem saying, "I was wrong". You need to "get real" and cut back on the biased reporting. Maybe then, organizations like the Post will give you the respect and attribution you crave. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Ha ha ha. You're funny. Is this Dan Steinberg?
(As for the Post and its wonderous and accurate coverage of local radio, check out my 6/23 Rant). Which one!!!??? Since May 29th, you have written 11 out of 15 rants about the Washington Post and/or the Washington Post Radio. WOW... (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Yup! I'm insane.....
Sumpin' funny's up with WMAL's signal the last week or so. Going up I-270, it's definitely not as strong as it used to be. At first I thought they might be running on nighttime power in the daytime, but it also sounds like it's being directionally nulled -- nowhere near as much as WCBM is in the Germantown area, but still noticeable. Anyone know if this is part of the station's 10 kW "upgrade"? KOF (6/25/07)
"Dave's response: Salem could buy 91.9 for WAVA and Dan Snyder could then buy 105.1. Or Snyder could buy 91.9 and give it to Salem and then pay Salem for 105.1. Whatever. You'll recall, when UDC was selling jazz WDCU 90.1 back in the 1990s, Salem was one of the bidders. The station went to C-SPAN, instead....." I'm not sure this is the whole story, Dave. Wasn't Salem's bid *successful*, but then wasn't the company pressured by anti-religious .... oh, excuse me, "pro public broadcasting" ... zealots to give back the frequency for a "public" purpose? I'm no big fan of Christian radio, and I *am* a fan of C-SPAN radio, so no great loss in my book. But if Salem was spat upon during the 90.1 sale, do you *really* think the company would go to that well again for 91.9? Or is 91.9 outside the boundary of the "public" portion of the FM spectrum? If so, I'm sure Salem wouldn't hear a single complaint about any purchase plans. Ha! Christian (6/25/07)
(From the front page...In Sunday's Washington Post, Marc "The Listener" Fisher looks at the return of classical music on WETA-FM...While Fisher notes that WETA-FM flipped from non-commercial news talk to classical in January with the demise of Bonneville's commercial classical WGMS, he neglects to mention that the move was most likely orchestrated with the blessing of his employer, the Washington Post, which runs commercial news talk Washington Post Radio with Bonneville.....) This story makes no sense. From what I remember, Bonneville worked with WETA to give them their classical format because they were getting out (Jim Allison was announced at WETA as their new PD, the Bonneville folks and the WETA folks doing a presser together, Bonneville donating their music library to WETA, etc... if I remember correctly). looking back, now we know that this move was made because they wanted to sell 104.1. The Post has nothing to do with this. From people I know at Bonneville, the programming partnership they have with the Post is just that...a partnership...and the Post doesn't have any ownership (and thus decision making power) in Bonneville. Hard to imagine Bruce Reese calling anyone at the Post to get their blessing to this, or any other, move-Takoma Tommy (6/25/07)
Yeah, that's a real big scoop by Dave Feldman. WTF? Feldman's also the nimrod who did a recent package about the calamity of men and women using a different-sized softball in co-ed leagues when, in fact, the different balls have been used nationally for 15 years. He's also the guy who tries to get one of his harem into sporting events without a ticket or press pass. What a tool. (6/25/07)
Roddy Freeman says “I have to disagree with the person who posted that demographics shouldn’t matter to public broadcasters. Some public stations are incredibly aggressive in competing for ad business under the guise of “supported by.”” Roddy, just because some public stations do things this way doesn’t mean they SHOULD be doing it. Public broadcasting wasn’t created to compete with commercial broadcasters in the advertising business, and Congress (& the FCC) never intended underwriting to become “advertising-by-another-name.” If public broadcasters aren’t careful, they’re going to sell themselves out of existence. When it becomes obvious to everyone—or at least to the politicians—that there is no difference, then it’s a short leap to converting all those non-com licenses into commercial licenses. Tell us again why these stations are getting our tax money? (6/25/07)
Who honestly gives a shit that feldman "broke" a story involving tiger having a baby? That's one of the dumbest things I've read on this website. Jim williams, come on man, don't you have anything else to write about, that really isn't a big deal. (6/25/07)
Dave, Garry Williams will be joining CSN's Chick Hernandez the week long coverage of the Tiger Woods golf event. "Tee Time at the AT&T National" debuts Monday, July 2, from 7-7:30 p.m., and will air each night throughout the week following SportsNite at 6:30 p.m. Comcast SportsNet's Chick Hernandez and University of Maryland men's basketball coach and avid golfer, Gary Williams, will host the 30-minute live show with interviews and analysis immediately following each day's round. More Tiger news, FOX 5 Sports Director Dave Feldman was the first in the market to break the news that Tiger was a new dad. Feldman beat the other stations in town by over five hours and even had it before Tiger's own web site posted the news at 9pm. Feldman posted it to the FOX5 web site at 3pm last Monday and then had the full story at 5pm on FOX 5 news at 5. www.examiner.com... All part of my Monday column. Cheers, Jim (6/25/07)
For using XM or Sirius radios' FM transmitters, I find 93.5 to be the best. The frequency is assigned to Ibiquity in Columbia for testing, and I don't think they do much testing these days. The nearest stations to that frequency are 93.1, WPOC in Baltimore and 93.9, WKYS in Washington, so it should be open all up and down the corridor. Radio Locator (radio-locator.com) has a service to find the best open frequencies by Zip code. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Just punched in my Zip (20191) and got 106.7. Hmmm. But seriously folks. Best 87.9 and 104.5. Good 92.9, 95.9, 96.7, 97.7, 98.1, 98.3, 101.7, 102.9. OK 92.7, 93.5, 101.9, 102.1. As for the latter batch, I don't think 92.7 would be good because Winchester's 92.5 is very strong at my location, and I get decent reception of Baltimore's WLIF on 101.9.....
I have to disagree with the person who posted that demographics shouldn’t matter to public broadcasters. Some public stations are incredibly aggressive in competing for ad business under the guise of “supported by.” The stations might sell only :15’s, and the FCC puts restrictions on what “underwriters” can say though the FCC has given stations more leeway since government funding was decreased. Public station ratings are not reported in the Arbitron data that commercial stations receive. However, Arbitron does measure public station listening, and public stations that subscribe have access to their ratings. A number of them are very competitive in certain demos. I can speak from experience as a media buyer that public stations vigorously compete for ad business. On another subject, I’d love for WMUC to move to 91.9, but frankly, would the U. of MD really spend the kind of dollars needed to purchase WGTS, especially for a station whose main purpose is giving students experience? Roddy Freeman (6/25/07)
Re: "...first station to broadcast Wiccan services and Satanic Rituals..." Don't worry, that doesn't work either. L. Ron Hubbard (6/25/07)
40 years ago today - On June 25, 1967, "All You Need Is Love" was first performed by The Beatles on the BBC program "Our World", the first ever live global television link. The program was broadcast via satellite to 26 countries and watched by 350 million people. The BBC had commissioned the Beatles to write a song for the UK's contribution to the international broadcast. www.youtube.com (6/25/07)
Someone wrote:". . . because the younger audience is the audience of product buyers. They need the bedroom suite, the new car, the dinette set, the steak knives. Anybody over 40 already has these things or has already permanently aligned themselves with brand names." Hmm. I'm in my mid-60s, have substantially more assets; have at least as much income (adjusted for inflation) as I had 30 years ago; with a paid-off mortgage have far more spendable income than my mid-30s child; just bought my most expensive new car ever; and am looking to make substantial home improvements, buy new furniture, travel more, and reconsider my investments. I know numerous people with a similar situation. But since we're older than 54 and listen mostly to classical music or older popular music that does not appeal to the younger set, no radio station or its advertisers seem to want our money. I think someone is missing a big opportunity, but that's their loss. (6/25/07)
Dave...surprised to see the article about Baisden in the Post this weekend. According to you, the Post doesn't cover the "programming side" of the Urban stations. This feature-type article should make you reconsider your subjective bashing and questioning of the Post (both the radio and print versions). JC (6/25/07)
Dave's response: Yeah, you're right. Golly! That one article has changed my whole view of the Post's coverage of local radio. Get real, buddy. As for the Post and its wonderous and accurate coverage of local radio, check out my 6/23 Rant.....
Where are all the WMUC 88.1 whiners regarding FM 91.9 being for sale ? Shouldn't The University of Maryland be #1 on the list of potential buyers for a radio station considering that they are about to LOSE theirs after WYPR upgrades its signal? The university is, of course, serious about supporting WMUC, right? Yeah right. I'll believe it when I see it. (6/25/07)
Dave's response: We don't know - maybe UMD is a bidder for 91.9. What's funny. I've been putting together station lists for our new NYC/Philly and Boston/Providence news pages and all those northeastern cities have loads of college radio. Something that we just don't have here in DC, despite all the cool schools in the region. Georgetown and UDC both owned and sold 90.1. GW and GMU - nothing on the broadcast band. AU and Howard - mainstream stations not for students. Maryland - a weak station about to get displaced. Sad.....
I don't disagree that Paul Mittermaier (Mittermeyer? I have no idea how to spell it) is a better broadcaster than Stan Charles - I suspect Stan would have a real problem finding a radio job in any market other than Baltimore - but Paul's not on the Orioles' coverage because he simply doesn't have the baseball chops required. Give him his due on football and even hockey, but baseball's not his thing, and his commentary on baseball is far too non-specific, shoot-from-the-hip to be taken seriously. (6/25/07)
It means a lot to me that Silvie in Waldorf agrees with me that the WMAL hosts need to get their heads out of their a$$e$! Further, I appreciate Silvie backing me up on Empire Carpet having the best jingle ever. See you at lunch at the Golden Corral. (6/25/07)
/\ June 25 Messages /\
\/ June 24 Messages \/
re: "If the Frequently Corrupt Commission had any cojones (or brains), they’d either fine or start yanking licenses of some of these so-called non-commercial broadcasters." Um, except that those so-called non-commercial broadcasters are doing exactly what Congress told them to do when the Congress started taking their money away. (6/24/07)
Quote: "I am glad Sylvie in Waldorf agrees with me that WMAL hosts treat disagreeing callers badly, calling them names and using the volume and cut off buttons to the host's advantage." I have no idea what you are talking about here. This is coming from left field (literally) because I have said nothing of the sort. I said, in a short sentence in my post of 6/22, that WMAL hosts put on liberal callers first on top of the call list because they want to argue with them, instead of arguing with someone who has a like-minded analysis of the subject, who are a dime a dozen. Read my post again and please do not put words in my mouth. I never said that WMAL hosts treated disagreeing callers badly. What you said that I stated was a mouthful that did not come out of my mouth. And please, get your head out of your a$$. -Silvie in Waldorf- (6/24/07)
to new xm subscriber in d.c. 90.3 in baltimore 107.1 i've had xm for 2 yrs this is what i use (6/24/07)
"[Classical music] has been dropped by many public radio stations because it attracts an increasely older demographic..." Okay. So what? Public radio exists to serve the public. That would include young listeners and old listeners. Public radio putatively does not advertise, hence there are no advertisers to please, demographics are irrelevant, and, as long as there are listeners, the format can be anything. Of course, public radio is run by executives who reflexively go for the younger audience, because the younger audience is the audience of product buyers. They need the bedroom suite, the new car, the dinette set, the steak knives. Anybody over 40 already has these things or has already permanently aligned themselves with brand names. These are the rules. That's how advertisers are assured of getting the biggest bang for their buck. But in public radio, il n'a fait rien. Do I have to come over there with a two-by-four and convince ya? (6/24/07)
"In Sunday's Washington Post (page N7, not on website), Marc "The Listener" Fisher looks at the return of classical music on WETA-FM." Is this the article? Not credited to Fisher, but it is on N7. www.washingtonpost.com... This part is odd "And he says the station will move to a greater variety of pieces as it builds its CD library from 4,000 discs to more than 50,000 in the coming months." Are they not counting records? I thought they got WGMS's library and still had their own previous collection. (6/24/07)
anonymous's "prayerful" attack on Salem not withstanding, I dont see the two stations as competitive. WAVA is a christian talk station. WGTS is not. Here in the western suburbs I think WPER is more of a competitor. Just my opinion as a listener. You want nutjob radio theories, here's one. SALEM buys WGTS, moves WAVA to 91.9 and sells 105.1 to the Danny. (6/24/07)
Dave's response: Great minds think alike. I just suggested that in my Dave's response to the message below.....
After prayerfully considering my earlier comments about the rumored sale of WGTS (perhaps to Dan Snyder), there are a few thoughts about this situation that came to mind while I was in church this morning. First, who would benefit from the sale of WGTS? While it’s obvious that Columbia Union College would directly benefit financially, they might not be alone. For instance, with 91.9 going to a format other than Contemporary Christian, Salem’s WAVA would be able to knock-off not only a cume competitor, it would also eliminate a radio voice that runs counter their brand of politically ultra-conservative Evangelical Christianity. (Columbia Union College is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church; an institution, which some Protestant Christians feel, is non-scriptural.) Now, if you’! re thinking, “Why would a Christian broadcasting corporation want to silence another Christian broadcaster?” you’re entitled to do so. But, it’s easy. Salem is far from being a “Christian broadcasting corporation”! It is a “broadcasting corporation” that is run with as much concern for the bottom-line as Citadel, Cheap Channel, etc.! Besides Conservative Christian stations, Salem also runs sports talkers, and conservative political talkers. Also, think about this: A business strategy proven successful since the first two times of Christ is, “if you can’t be better than your competition”, buy ‘em out and shut ‘em down”! Second, who would have the political or creative wherewithal to either find a way around the FCC’s non-commercial mandate for 88.1-91.9 or get it overturned entirely? Dan Snyder immediately comes to mind. One possible scenario he could present is the pressing need for a sports talk station in this region with a viable €! œaround the Beltway” signal in a market that has long been FM domina nt. And, absent anyone selling such a viable commercial signal, Triple X offers to trade the rim-shots they currently have to Columbia Union College (Along with lots of cash!) for 91.9 and asks for either outright scrapping of the 88.1-91.9 non-commercial mandate (The current FCC loves the concept of “Abundant availability of alternative media sources…” as an argument…). Or failing that, a singular re-assignment of 91.9 in Bethesda from non-commercial to commercial. In the past, the FCC has allowed non-commercial broadcasters to sell their facilities to a commercial broadcaster where the “consideration” has included the facilities of another station. Usually this has been where a commercial UHF station in the same market has bought a non-commercial VHF TV station. I know this happened in Nashville, TN. Perhaps elsewhere as well. IMHO, the third possibility would be GWETA buying WGTS and flipping it WGMS. While it makes creative sense, it doesn’t from a ! revenue sense. A non-commercial broadcaster is not necessarily a “not-for-profit” broadcaster. Indeed, all the FCC says is that certain frequencies or channels are to be “non-commercial” with nothing mandating “non-profit”! As one involved for many years at a leadership level with perhaps the most respected non-profit in the nation, I can tell you that a non-profit’s sources of revenue are nowhere as diverse as that of a ‘for profit” company! Thus, for a significant increase in expenses, there would be at best only an incremental increase in revenue to cover it. In other words, you’d be turning a “surplus generator” into a “deficit generator”! So, I seriously doubt a GWETA purchase of WGMS. Folks, this one’s going to get interesting. I’d also like to see Bob Mathers’ take on it! (6/24/07)
Dave's response: Salem could buy 91.9 for WAVA and Dan Snyder could then buy 105.1. Or Snyder could buy 91.9 and give it to Salem and then pay Salem for 105.1. Whatever. You'll recall, when UDC was selling jazz WDCU 90.1 back in the 1990s, Salem was one of the bidders. The station went to C-SPAN, instead.....
Hello all. I am a new subscriber to XM radio....Can anyone suggest a decent FM dial position to use? I've tried several, and am satisfied with none of them. Thanks in advance. (6/24/07)
From the "Who Cares?" Dept: WETA had a CP for a 50K signal as WETW on 91.9 in Leonardtown, MD @ the WKIK 1370 site back in the mid 1990's. Later changed to a 20K'er w/ the tower to be visible from the Koppel/Bradlee-Quinn compounds in Drayden except the NIMBYS KO'd the plan and WETA dropped it. Now, WGTS comes in quite well. Larry-in-Leonardtown (6/24/07)
Has anyone noticed that the guy who reads the commercials every other minute on NPR is the same guy who reads the forecasts on NOAA weather radio??? 88.5 and 162.55 mHz, all the time. Check it out. (6/24/07)
Dave's response: Has anyone noticed that the guy who narrates the "Frontline" documentaries on PBS is the same guy who did the narration in the wonderful movie (now out on DVD) "Little Children" with Kate Winslet?
Sorry. Stan the Fan on WJFK-AM (Infinity) is still awful but Paul Mittermyer on Press Box Live Sunday is fantastic. Why isn't this guy on WHFS O's coverage? He knows his stuff and doesn't say 'AH!' all the time! (6/24/07)
Dave, I agree w/you. If Dan Snyder can come up with a way to legally do commercial sports on 91.9, he’ll buy it and do it! 91.9 has a much better signal than either of the rim-shots Bonneville was trying to peddle him. And, he knows it. Furthermore, I’ve never seen the difference between a paid spot on WTOP or WGMS (when that classical giant still existed) vs. the “underwriting” or “made possible by” announcements on WAMU or WETA. And, of course look at what the Petroleum Broadcasting Service (A term I first heard used by Dr. Glen Thomas at Mary Washington College back in the late 1970’s…) has done for ages, first showing still and then animated corporate logos, and now expanding to commercials and infomercials. I have nothing against a simple announcement of the name of an und! erwriter at the beginning or end of a program. And, on TV, just a plain text listing of the underwriter –no logos! But, above all else: No “commercials”! If the Frequently Corrupt Commission had any cojones (or brains), they’d either fine or start yanking licenses of some of these so-called non-commercial broadcasters. But, that’s not a part of the Bush administration’s politically correct agenda. Another FCC joke I saw last weekend was WUSA running of some “Animal Planet-type” of programming last Saturday afternoon in 480p on their 9.2 channel instead of the usual radar. To add insult to injury, instead of commercial breaks, they ran a canned announcement stating that the programming was solely to meet their “Educational/Instructional” programming commitment with the FCC, with a mention of the FCC public file BS. What a sick and perverted joke! How many cable systems carry the digital sub-channels of the local off-airs? And, for that matter, how many people (other than myself) were watching this program? The on ly way I found it was during one of my scans of the “digital spectrum” to see what’s out there on my Sony CRT digital receiver w/a 2-bay bowtie aimed towards Tenleytown. It used to be non-entertainment programming was relegated to 3 AM on a Sunday morning. Now, I guess all you have to do is bury it on an unknown sub-channel that nobody knows about! (6/24/07)
Dave's response: Yeah, Dan Snyder may be rich and powerful, but he can't change FCC regulations. All US radio stations between 88.0 FM and 92.0 FM - including WGTS 91.9 - are non-commercial operations. So, what's Snyder going to do? Run the Redskins games with all the ads and promotional mentions cut out? No way, Jose.....
You write: "DCRTV hears that Takoma Park's Columbia Union College is considering the sale of "family friendly" contemporary Christian music WGTS (91.9 FM). We're told that there are numerous bids for the station, with the most financially attractive being one from a "non-Christian source."" You also write: "Clear Channel has just transferred two Frederick stations its owns - news talk WFMD (930 AM) and country WFRE (99.9 FM) - to an "Aloha" station trust, along with 69 other stations nationwide, in order to complete the sale of the San Antonio-based company. We're told that WFMD and WFRE will likely be sold in the coming months..." Could Snyder be looking to add either of these proiperties to the Red Zebra empire? (6/24/07)
Dave's response: I don't think so. First, 91.9 has a non-commercial license so it would be impossible for Dan Snyder to run commercial sports programming on the station. And, second, 930 and 99.9 are in Frederick. If he bought the signals, he would still lack the "big kahuna" - an inside the beltway signal. Yeah, buying the Frederick stations would certainly expand the reach of Triple X, but it still wouldn't give him a better signal in places like DC, Arlington, and Bethesda - where he needs one. In my opinion, the most likely buyer of 91.9 would be WETA, which could use the signal to restore the talk and news programming that got eliminated with the flip of WETA-FM, 90.9, to classical back in January. Who else would Columbia Union College refer to as "non-Christian" but "lefty" public radio? Or, maybe WETA could put the news and talk back on 90.9 and make 91.9 classical WGMS, with the classical calls currently being "warehoused" on WETA-FM's Hagerstown relay. That's what I'd do if I was running WETA.....
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And the Citadel plot thickens, typo #2 or ?.... www.citadelbroadcasting.com... By the way, Citadel didn't make the same mistake with WRQX 107.3. Hmmm. (6/23/07)
Silvie in Waldorf, I have to compliment you on your photo as you are an extremely attractive young lady! And I mean that with the most genuine level of respect as I'm more than old enough to be your Father. How lucky the folks in Southern Maryland are to see your pretty face on a regular basis. Sincerely, Rusty Gibson (6/23/07)
Is Citadel planning to move WMAL to 105.9 or is this notation on their website just a typo? www.citadelbroadcasting.com (6/23/07)
Dave's response: "Dial:105.9." Hmmm.....
My gut feeling on hearing this news is Dan Snyder is going to buy WGTS. He wanted WAVA, but Salem didn't want to sell; therefore, this is the second-best thing. He wants a station quickly for Redskins game coverage, not trusting ClearChannel or Infinity to broadcast what he wants the stations to play. Coming right after the rejection of the Zoning Board for a 22-kw 730 frequency, it sounds like one of his business counter-moves. My daughter will hate this. She loves WGTS and its sound, and WGTS doesn't have all the political talk Salem has, nor the sponsored ministry broadcasts.--GAB in the Airless Cubicle (6/23/07)
Dave's response: WGTS has a "non-commercial" license. But if Channel 26 can get away with running paid "infomercials" with its "non-comm" license, I bet Dan could find a way to run "advertisements," too.....
At last! Proof that WMAL's Chris Plante and Silvie in Waldorf are not the same person! Silvie (left) and Chris (right). Photo taken on Sat., 6/23. (6/23/07)Re: The sale of WGTS... At church today, I heard someone say that the group that's bidding the highest is BlackMass, Ltd., from Manassas Park and Laurel. It will be known as "DarkSide 91.9" and, on one hand, makes me sad for the people who like it now. On the other hand, it will be the first station to broadcast Wiccan services and Satanic Rituals. We are a vastly underserved, yet growing population that deserves at least one voice on the airwaves. A Druid group is also offering to buy some block time on the weekends, adjacent to Ric Edelman. Cross your fingers, charms and tannis amulets! Louis Cypher (6/23/07)
Dave's response: Hey, I have friends who are Wiccan and they'd be deeply insulted if you compared them to anything "Satanic".....
It's a tragedy to read about the proposed sale of WGTS. John Konrad and his staff have done an incredible job of making a "real" radio station - and having it make money for the college. Before I worked for John a few years back, I wasn't even a practicing Christian. Sure - I was a "member" of a church, but that was about it. Working for him - and his staff changed my life in too many ways to count. He really turned my life around - at a time when I needed it. Plus, I learned never to talk about the "magic 8 ball" on that station. Life lesson learned. I hope the bid of his staff prevails and keeps the current WGTS on the air. (6/23/07)
Dave's response: Anyone know who might be interested in buying them? Will keep all sources confidential.....
Why is it that nearly a year after Comcast took over bankrupt Adelphia, the WAPO Sunday TV Guide magazine still shows Adelphia as a cable provider in its cable guide? Can they really be that far behind. (6/23/07)
Dave's response: Some things, like whether Brit Hume's name is spelled right, are important to the Post. Other things, like local radio station formats and the ownership of area cable TV systems, aren't. Selective accuracy......
Dear RCL, you may know who I am, but then again you may not. On the other hand, no one (save Dave Hughes) knows who YOU are. But that's okay, it is the philosophy we are addressing and not the person, so please do not take it personal, sir. Or, ma'am...not sure. In reading your post, you walk a mighty fine line, partner on that 'free speech' issue. Regardless of what WMAL says, or Alan Colmes says, or Limbaugh, or Randi Rhodes, they say what they say, WHERE they say it, because the folks who own the stations and networks decide what to program without guv'mint jumping in and 'regulating' them. The way many people see the issue, all sides of the debate are given access to the airwaves to propulgate their opinions. The listeners decide if either liberal or conservative viewpoints are of interest. Judging from the ratings and the shrinking away from the stations who still air liberal talk formats, the listeners have indeed decided. Oh, a couple more things. You may recall that when Limbaugh first got on the air in '88-'89, Larry King was doing weekly daytime talk on the Mutual Network and had tons of stations cleared for his program, based on his dominant overnight show heard for years across the USA. Mr. King's daytime radio show was slanted to the liberal side. When Limbaugh picked up steam with his conservative 'voice of the people/dittohead' format, King couldn't compete and quickly abandoned radio to go to TV on CNN. Ah, them golden oldies! Finally, you mentioned Hugh Hewitt as the head of Salem regarding his campaign against John Kerry. Please refer to the following link www.salem.cc and discover that Hewitt is not the head of Salem. What he was and continues to be is simply another conservative leaning talk show host...who like many of his contemporaries...called it right on 'Ol' Swiftboat'. - The LCR (6/23/07)
Dear Jazz Fan: Check out the featured artists line-up for the week ahead on the best jazz show in town by clicking here... jazzradiodc.com. Thanks, Carl David (6/23/07)
So when did FOX5 start doing "shout outs" on their newscasts?..For the past couple of nights, the anchors have been making statements such as "Dupont Circle, Hyattsville, Fairfax", you're going to want to see this next story. And "We're serving Northwest, Laurel, Silver Spring"..When I first heard it, I thought the next story was going to be about something that happened in those areas..Guess they're just trying to be witty. (6/23/07)
Ain't "fat ass" a trademarked verbal crutch of Mike O'Meara's? Where do you find these retarded stones? (6/23/07)
If a doctor developed a cure for cancer, would NBC pay him $1M for an interview and would anyone make that "appointment television?" Lordy. Paris Hilton is today's Lady Di. By contrast, though, Miss Spencer was pretty. And her intelligence and compassion for "the little folk" were above average. Miss Hilton is famous for being rich and famous and for behaving like a spoiled brat. She endangers the public each time she gets inebriated behind the wheel of her expensive car. Eccch. In other news: Pat Garrett is THE MAN. None better. (6/23/07)
RE: WXTR 730, RED ZEBRA & [ " I guess that's what you do following the reported rejection of the plan from Loudoun County zoning officials... " ]........ AND you discover you've just purchased the Brooklyn Bridge and cannot extend it to England. :-) (6/23/07)
HI DAVE! My Wife and I had been fans of your site when we lived in Virginia years back. We left for a few years, came back and only to find Radio in this town even harder to listen to. We used to be huge fans of 94.7 even back in the WLITE days 20 years ago? . One question we have, anyone know where long time midday host Paula Kasey is now? She was on 94.7 for many years and then went to OLDIES 100 (before they really went downhill, man are they terrible these days) My wife had been in email contact with her for a while and we knew she had married an Australian man but we have lost touch and wasn't sure if she moved to the Land Down Under or if she is still on the air somewhere? She was a class act. A rare great sense of humor that most women have none in this market (even men)Great voice, Personality and a huge knowledge of music. How come the same old boring announcers just stick around? And the good ones move on? Is it the market? Just too bland and dull to sustain the good talent? And switching to the terrible tv women in this market, does anyone else find the mute button when the Victory Nissan commercials come on? That women is the WORST!!! I'd rather hear nails on a chaulkboard! She would certainly make me buy from their competitors! Bob & Pam back in Vienna (6/23/07)
Dave's response: You've never heard Hot 99.5's Vibegrrl. Her voice is like taking a Taser hit right up your nose.....
I am glad Sylvie in Waldorf agrees with me that WMAL hosts treat disagreeing callers badly, calling them names and using the volume and cut off buttons to the host's advantage. I now know Sylvie concurs that most WMAL hosts enjoy picking fights and spreading misinformation instead of having a constructive two way dialogue and presenting information back and forth. BTW, Andy and Grandy don't even put callers on the air; they have a comment line that is edited, and the comments put on the air are allowed only about six seconds each-not enough time to leave anything but a soundbite and hope that it even gets on the air. Sylvie, you are a great American for acknowledging how badly non agreeing callers are treated on WMAL. BTW, Sean had discredited Dr. Hammisfaar on over a dozen times claiming that he could save Terri Shiavo because he examined her and knew a procedure to get her out of a coma. Has Sean ever admitted the Dr. nominated himself for a Nobel Prize in Medicine, and his ability to collect medical insurance in Florida was stripped because of fraud and questionable medical treatments? Has Sean acknowledged when the Dr. examined Terri, and said he could save her, she was already brain dead like dozens of other doctors had already concluded? Where is Jeff Gannon, "a terrific White House Bureau Chief" (as Sean called him), when you need him. (6/23/07)
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To answer the trivia question about the last song played on WMOD: It was 'New World Coming' by Cass Elliot ("There's a New World Coming / And it's just around the bend / There's a new world coming / This one's coming to an end..."). And for added bonus points, the first song played on WMZQ was "Are You Ready for the Country" by Waylon Jennings. (6/22/07)
LCR, I think I have a pretty good idea of who you are (there is only one person that frequents this board, obsessed with this idea that socialism is somehow still prevalent in our society)…also, your note on Bolshevism is off the mark. I did not say in any way that I want the government or anyone else, for that matter to balance programming by having an equal amount of Air America as opposed to Rush, or whomever. I never said that. I am saying that as the conservatives who own and control most of the stations in this country, they decide what gets put on the air and what the public hears. Fine, but it is also quite obvious as many posters have noted that these stations are by and large being used for a specific political purpose that goes beyond someone having an opinion (note the earlier discussion re: Grandy/Andy’s use of the GOP bullet points, the same ones I hear other conservative talkers use word for word). The stations and their people are being used as tools. It does go both ways. My thought is that I wonder how does this serve the public on the public airwaves. Conservative talk radio does not speak common sense as much as LCR would like to have you think. They do not provide facts unless they reinforce the conservative message. Facts and figures can be played with and manipulated (note the XM/Sirius war that goes on here all the time). By the way, Salem’s head, Hugh Hewitt made it very plain back in 2004 that his stated goal was to “defeat John Kerry.” Some Christian message that is. I want to see how this debate shakes out. The RCL (6/22/07)
AllAccess reports tonight that Frederick's WFMD and WFRE among the stations Clear Channel is sending off to a trust, presumably to be sold to another operator. If they really do intend to sell all those sticks, maybe Danny Snyder can sniff around that giant 99.9 signal? Here's a plan for Red Zebra - add it to 92.7, 94.3 and the still-limited-to-lightbulb-night-power 730. Package up all four stations and sell them to someone, then buy WBIG. Heh! Oh, does anyone else find it funny that Young Mr. Snyder's broadcast arm is still named (indirectly) after a man who has now left the operation? (6/22/07)
Dave's response: We did report a while back that the two Frederick stations were being put in a trust, whatever that means. The Redskins were on WFRE 99.9 last season. Anyone know if they'll be there again this season, with carriage on CC's WBIG 100.3.....
All WMAL hosts (local & non-local) put liberal callers on the top of the call list... they talk to them first because they want and have someone to argue with... the notion that Hannity, Levin and the others don't do this is erroneous... even Core does it... and Plante encourages it! -Silvie in Waldorf- (6/22/07)
From Wikipedia about Big O & Duke: On Tuesday, June 19th 2007 the show was canceled. The cancellation was disguised as "a big announcement" several weeks prior to the final broadcast. The last segment of The Big O and Dukes show featured Intern Dan playing the Big O and Dukes intro song on his guitar with all the cast members and loyal listeners singing along. Chad Dukes then thanked all former cast members, listeners and The Auto Financing Network for supporting their show. A timpani was then played and a montage of the shows greatest moments was played set to Don't Stop Beleivin' by the band Journey akin to the series finale of The Sopranos, which had aired only a week before the shows cancellation. The show is set to return on June 29th broadcasting from the radio station WJFK in Washington D.C. (6/22/07)
Dave's response: Weekday evenings?
RCL’s commentary (The discussion over recent findings…) is rather stereotypical of frustrated and socialist-thinking folk who wish that somehow, some way…the USA could be just a little more Bolshevik in the way it regulates radio stations. Well comrade, it is not surprising that you would target a company like Salem specifically. After all, previous posts from your domain have left no stone unturned in attempts to slam Christian radio formats in general, and Salem in particular. C’mon, loosen up RCL. If a station wishes to broadcast right-wing talk, or scriptures from the Holy Bible, it is the station’s prerogative. Or liberal talk if that is what they want to format. Your words seem to advocate that the US government limit conservative (or Christian) talk radio and/or balance out that format by requiring more stations to showcase the Air America/left wing programming. You ‘feel’ that way because you would (if you could) stifle and more preferably eliminate conservative and of course, Christian programming. Gee RCL, whatever happened to ‘freedom of speech’? Why has Air America failed? It resonates ideology more than truth. Why has conservative talk radio thrived? Because the hosts in large measure speak common sense and provide the American people with facts that wake up the populace, a development that tends to stand in the way of advancing the liberal ‘agenda’. Folks aren’t stupid. BTW, I do agree with you on one thing. Salem is not broadcasting for ratings or revenue, because the message IS the motivation. Now there you go, a Christian broadcasting group that’s not in it for the money. Signed (for purposes of palindroming), The LCR. (6/22/07)
("He may have the President's "job" but his approval rating is crap") Yes - but we can't fire that idiot. A PD could get rid of Pat Garrett if they wanted to. But, no - they keep him for this distinctive sound. Duh. Sour grapes... (6/22/07)
Trivia question: On the anniversary of WMZQ's debut, does anyone remember the last song the station played as WMOD? I remember it well.... (6/22/07)
WOW!!! Back-to-back mailbag entries from both PLB & ANG. Can't wait for the next batch from Granny, TX and all the rest of one man's multiple personalities. BTW - Having the "job" means that he's working but says nothing product quality. Take George Bush (PLEASE!!!). He may have the President's "job" but his approval rating is crap. (6/22/07)
Memo to Chris Berry, WMAL: As far as I can tell, when listening to NPR, they cover news stories more thoroughly than WMAL does. NPR also doesn't get "news" from Republican Talking Points like WMAL does. Example 1, NPR never ran the story that Nancy Pelosi wanted a 747 from the Air Force on call to take her from DC to San Francisco. WMAL's Chris Core ran with it on two separate days constantly quoting the Republican "Talking Points" that were faxed to him from the RNC. Andy & Grandy also made many references to Ms. Pelosi's request on their morning show. The problem is that the story wasn't true. As we all know the story was fabricated by a certain Republican Senator who finally admitted he knew nothing about it when confronted by his hometown newspaper. Even Tony Snow scolded a reporter who asked about it and said the story was an "unfair attack" on the Speaker. Example 2, NPR never ran a story of Pelosi's involvement in getting dock improvements in San Francisco that would positively affect her real estate holdings "right next door." WMAL's Andy and Grandy constantly reported on this "corruption" until it was revealed her closest real estate holdings to the project were a mile and a half away. Has Chris Core or anyone at WMAL ever acknowledged a story they ran with turned out to be false or misleading? NPR, on the other hand, encourages open debate and dedicates a portion of the week on ATC and ME to corrections, clarifications, and listener comments that are more than sound bites like "Fire up the bus, Andy!" Also, listener disagreement on WMAL is met with the harshest visceral allowed on the radio. Have you ever heard someone call in and disagree with Mark Levin? Mark spouts off so much acerbic name calling at the caller it is enough to make you think Mark is going to pop a blood vessel and that he needs a serious mental health check up. Does NPR ever call elected officials vitriolic names like WMAL hosts do? Oh, by the way Mr Berry, All Things Considered and Morning Edition on NPR are considered "News organizations" by every other legitimate news organization in the country; Rush's show, and Sean's show, (and I would assume, the second tier like Core, Levin, and the Salem/TRN talk shows) by Rush's own admission, are NOT news; they are "entertainment." You and I were in the same room and heard Rush say "don't get your news solely from talk radio." Exactly. Sivie in Waldorf is a great American. (6/22/07)
The discussion over the recent findings, re: talk radio's disparity in viewpoints and opinions is most interesting. While the right may try to toss off the findings as just so much propaganda, as usual, there's a lot of talk but no facts to back up any arguments against it. Ed Schultz made a very interesting point on his show today: this is not market driven. The market is set and dictated by those who own the stations and control their content. And as we've seen, regardless of format or genre, owners and operators tend to program without having a clue as to what the listeners want. Since most stations are owned by radio groups that are conservative in their nature and politics, they want what confirms their ideas on the air, even if progressive, liberal or middle-way talkers prove in some markets that they're wanted, have something to say and bring in money. I don't believe that bringing back the Fairness Doctrine is the answer to the situation. It is not enforceable, and there are ways to skirt it, which will be enacted by the owners, whatever their political/social leanings. But the thing is: these stations belong to the public, hence the term public airwaves. If all a station does is broadcast right-wing talk with no alternative or opposing viewpoint, is that proper use of the public airwaves? If a station just runs Air America, is that proper? In the end, those who listen and those who choose to advertise should dictate a station's movements. Yet, as we've seen with some companies, such as Salem, ratings and revenue mean nothing when you are obsessed with a message. The RCL (6/22/07)
What might the "big Countdown" be on the Big O and Dukes site??? 7 days till……. www.bigoanddukes.com (6/22/07)
Just a shout-out to you, Dave, in the midst of all the nonsense. You run a hell of a site, Brownie (obligatory GWB bashing comment). A lot of similar operations (they'll remain nameless, but let's just say one of them covers New York Radio) specifically exclude posted comments that don't follow the party line of "all liberal, all the time". Now, you make no bones about being pretty much to the left of center; you also don't censor those of us who aren't. I'm about as far right as you can get without having to surrender my Bar Mitzvah certificate; although we're diametrically opposed philosophically, I respect what you're doing here enormously. I'm in favor of open and unlimited debate about these kinds of things that affect us every day (especially the freedom of the press and the airwaves). If it's a choice between turning the dial or sacrificing freedom of expression, for the love of God exercise a little adult judgement rather than asking the government, or the church, or big business to do it for you. Don't let the government take away the kind of freedom of thought and expression that 99% of the rest of the world world wishes they had because you can't be inconvenienced to act like a grown-up. The more we can discuss these issues, the more I honestly believe the philosophies which represent my particular ideological bent appear as the more reasonable of the alternatives. You provide a really valuable forum for that kind of debate, and that's why I've decided to break down and go to the donation section. Now, if you could just do something about the poor grammar skills of those damned liberals…. Genghis Cohen, working for the weekend in cool and windy Prince William County (6/22/07)
Dave's response: Awww schucks! Thanks.....
To the Pat Garrett attacker. Pat is one of the best Station Imaging guys in the business. He is far from a puker. He's also a really nice guy. If he's so bad in your eyes, why don't you contact the 100 plus stations he provides VO work to, and steal his clients? Oh, and try signing your name. PLB:0) (6/22/07)
Who is this boffo that's doing all the evaluating of Pat Garret's work? Barfy....doesn't sound natural, pukey...I suppose you think or thought "The Greaseman" sounded normal....or Johnny Walker, or Don Geronimo...c'mon ass-hole get off the soapbox..Pat must have taken some of your client list, so you decided to "piss" on him. ANG (6/22/07)
WMAL GM Chris Berry’s idiotic notion that public radio is liberal shows once again that if you’re far enough to the right, everything else looks left. (6/22/07)
So there’s a rumor going around that NBC News is paying $1 million for the first post-jail interview with Paris Hilton: www.nypost.com. That little crybaby is the last person that needs $1 million. If this is indeed true, I will never watch NBC again…ever. Imagine how this makes fine folks like IJ Hudson, Susan Kidd and George Michael feel. Sheesh… Brian in Fairfax (6/22/07)
Dave's response: Oh, the $1M for Paris is an "investment." It will boost the ratings of "Today" so that higher ad rates can be charged. As repulsive as the offer is - people will watch.....
The applicant (Red Zebra) actually requested the dismissal of the WXTR upgrade application on June 18, see Public Notice Comment. Everett W. svartifoss2.fcc.gov... svartifoss2.fcc.gov... (6/22/07)
Dave's response: I guess that's what you do following the reported rejection of the plan from Loudoun County zoning officials.....
Although not disputing his voice-over successes, I am constantly reminded of how unnatural he sounds on WJZ-TV and WTOP Radio. I can't help but cringe whenever I hear him intro WJZ's Eyewitness News as "EYEWITNESS NOOSE" in that over-processed announcer voice. Sounding bigger-than-life is one thing. Vocal barfing is another. (6/22/07)
Dear Big O & Dukes, please stay in Phoenix. We don't need anymore no talent dj's in this area. We have enough already. Although it has been fun to watch a lot of the Free FM stations around the country sink and flip format. Good job CBS. WJFK has a 1.5 share 12 plus & WHFS had a 1.7 share 12 plus in the winter book. Suits don't understand compelling radio. They understand how to rip off their clients with value added weekend blitz sales packages. BTW, to the person who wrote,"RE: Tony K making fun of the SUV lobbying ads... Yes they are horrible, insulting, and ineffective. But its VERY unprofessional to bash them on the air given that the advertisers pay your salary by buying air time." That's the attitude that killed radio. That attitude tells salespeople they run the station. There was a time when programming & sales went hand in hand. You put good dj's on the air, they got ratings, the salespeople sold. But cluster mentality killed the need for ratings and killed radio. Thanks. (6/22/07)
I see the GM of WMAL made a stupid mistake and ceded an erroneous point to the self-proclaimed "progressives": his quote, "many people consider public radio if not liberal, then certainly in the category of 'progressive'" says that there is some form of "liberal-lite" that we shall now call "progressive". This is a term with great connotations, but if it means tried-and-found-unworkable ideas like those put forth by the dictionary guy in an earlier Mailbag post, the dictionary definition and related connotations do not apply. Neither does the dictionary definition of "conservative" apply to the ideas saddled with that particular term, but people opposed love the connotations. The bottom line of the "progressive" group's report is still, 'we want a select group of individuals who agree with us to decide what you will hear', and that idea is far from progressive (dictionary definition). (6/22/07)
Pat Garrett a puker? Not by any stretch. Oh, BTW moron - he is STILL on WTOP...going strong for 10 years or so now? Oh, let's not forget he was/is on WCBS, WLIF, WWMX, WKYS...and countless others. (6/22/07)
Dave, at one time was there two Country Stations. (6/22/07)
Dave's response: Up until the mid-1980s, we had country on WXRA 105.9 and WPIK 730 with the infamous Gary Dee doing mornings. WXRA then became classic rock WCXR with 730 going to nostalgic WRMR and then to soul oldies WCPT, which station officials then rudely (and quite off the record) jested that the calls stood for "Colored Peoples' Tunes".....
If the XM apologist wants the cold, hard numbers, they are readily availably from both companies' 10-K's. For example, in the 1st Q of 2007, SIRI added roughly 555,000 new subscribers, XM, about 284,000, or a roughly 2-1 margain. Kinda funny how the last gasp of defense of XM is "yeah, but Radio Shack only sells Sirius." XM also has better OEM deals with GM, Toyota and Honda, who I would imagine, sell a helluva lot more merchandise than Radio Shack. (6/22/07)
Although most of us who post on boards like this value the anonymity provided, it also allows for no-talents, wannabes & jealous SOBs to take shots at people who are successful at radio. Case in point, today’s posting “"area voice-over great Pat Garrett" Huh ? Isn't this the same guy who sounded like he was throwing up when he was doing WTOP 1500's promotions? I'd hire him to do commercials for nausea medicine, but in the business those folks are called "pewkers" or "vomit voice." Listeners like them as much as stomach flu.” Those of us who know and work with Pat acknowledge him as one of the top VO guys in the industry and recognize that the call-letters of the stations on his resume represent a Dream Career for radio voice talents: NYC’s Q104.3, LA’s KBIG, Chicago’s WBBM-FM, Philly’s WDAS, Houston’s KILT—and, oh yeah, WTOP. And, now back on Bmore radio at Mix 106.5 + his work at WJZ-TV. Hey, he’s a “Local Boy Makes Good” story. We’re proud of him. So save the jealousy crap. (6/22/07)
I just heard the 10:45 sports on WTOP, and it was apparently a tape from yesterday morning. Tigers sweep the Nats, Trembley's first win, O's vs. SD this afternoon, O'Malley quits Wizards--all Thursday stories. Jeff Barron (6/22/07)
With Big O and Dukes returning to the area and Free FM going out the door, how long will it be untill 105.7 WHFS - FreeFM returns to music? This is a national trend of CBS stations bringing back rock radio from the ill-conceived FreeFM format. WJFK: you're next. KeninLinthicum (6/22/07)
Radio Shack: Dave (& others) I hope you got either the Acurian amplified speakers [$25 per pair] or bare 25W/channel amplifier [$16]. They are very high quality for the price. They have been on close-out for 10% of original price. Why? They don't have any normal audio input, they just work from a digital signal over powerline - and the digital senders sold out long ago. Thus these are orphans. BUT, the bare amplifier can be modified to accept line audio input to the "Line Out" by just unplugging the internal connection to the receiver board. No wire cutting nor soldering. The amplified speaker mod is harder. Unplug that wire from the receiver board. Leave it plugged into the back panel slide switch. Solder it to a stereo jack which you must mount on the back panel. The panel seems to be made of "indistructium" it is so hard to drill. (6/22/07)
big o and dukes landing in Detroit? www.live971freefm.com? Ethan (6/22/07)
Dave's response: Hell, put 'em on JFK-FM's evenings. It can't get much worse.....
"area voice-over great Pat Garrett" Huh ? Isn't this the same guy who sounded like he was throwing up when he was doing WTOP 1500's promotions? I'd hire him to do commercials for nausea medicine, but in the business those folks are called "pewkers" or "vomit voice." Listeners like them as much as stomach flu. (6/22/07)
Dan Snyder was quoted as saying that if that girl's family sues Six Flags, she won't have a leg to stand on. Just kidding. (6/22/07)
Just as a note to the FMQB article relating to Sirius selling more than XM, one of the retailers that was tracked was Radio Shack and they only sell Sirius units. Customers that shop there (who still shops there anyway?) only have the option to get Sirius. (6/22/07)
Dave's response: I only go to Radio Shack when I need an audio or TV cable.....
"and to you Don and Mike naysayers maybe you just have a retarded sense of humor..." Yes, the majority of the metro area must be retarded because they are not entertained by these bloated has beens. Truly, someone who finds them funny should be careful disparaging others sense of humor. People in retarded glass houses should not throw retarded stones. How about that, fat ass? (6/22/07)
Happy Birthday WMZQ! I was there when the switch was made at the old studios on Wisconsin Ave. Diane Kepley, WTOP (6/22/07)
Dave, So WMZQ is 30 years old now. I was in the area in '77 when they started. I am retired Navy and was at the Naval Hospital at Bethesda at the time. I am surprised that the format has lasted as long as it has with WMZQ. The real difference that I see between now and when they started is that the quality of the content is not what it once was. I use to enjoy listening to them and was quite happy until Ben and Brian came on the air. Their humor seemed rude to me and they just didn't settle well with me. Perhaps I am getting old enough to be a bit set in my ways. Oh Well ... Life goes on. BTW....I am really enjoying listening to The Globe. That station is like a breath of fresh air. -- Jeff (6/22/07)
Dave's response: I agree with you about The Globe. No, not a perfect station, but one of the better rockers the DC area has ever heard.....
What a coincidence ..Sirius has outperformed XM for 21 months, basically the exact amount of time that Howard has been on. I guess he's irrelevent. Meanwhile, Mainelli fragged O*A on his way out the door at KROCK (6/22/07)
That picture on front page of WaPo Thursday of Miss Hilary's coven sent a shiver up my spine. Not a single warlock amongst them. If elected will Miss Hilary launch the most insidous attack upon mankind ever seen on the planet. That'll tighten your sphincter.......and to you Don and Mike naysayers maybe you just have a retarded sense of humor, but if you have a retarded sense of humor you probably wouldn't be able to tell. If the Don and Mike upset you so why not listen to Cerf and his wonderful tuneage, it's very cool.......and btws, I'm a freaking idiot no way YOUR THE FREAKIN' IDIOT! So there, put that in your bong and smoke it. (6/22/07)
Holy cow! I'd heard Dan "666Flags" Snyder would cut you off at the knees if you crossed him, but THIS is ridiculous... -MontCo (6/22/07)
Speaking of birthdays, congratulations also to WMZQ, which debuted thirty years ago today, on June 22, 1977. Happy Birthday, WMZQ! (6/22/07)
Dave's response: What's funny is that I remember that day! On summer break from JMU, I was driving the van to and from the Reston Sheraton and Dulles. And when there were no passengers in the van, I was allowed to crank up the radio. And oldies 98.7 WMOD was one of my favorite stations. Imagine my surprise this morning, 30 years ago, not being a country music fan.....
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\/ June 21 Messages \/
OUCH! MORE BAD NEWS FOR DANNY SNYDER....... The FCC just kicked poor Dannyboy today! The huge WXTR AM 730 signal upgrade app just got rejected and dismissed by the FCC today. That means Dannyboy is stuck with the current signal situation on the stations he owns unless he buys another property. Maybe now we know why Zier got the boot afterall, his smoke and mirrors engineering prowess! HAha! :-) (6/21/07)
RE: Tony K making fun of the SUV lobbying ads... Yes they are horrible, insulting, and ineffective. But its VERY unprofessional to bash them on the air given that the advertisers pay your salary by buying air time. Why on earth would you bite the hand that feeds you , especially on WTWP which is lucky it has ANY advertisers at all considering its impact in the market (0)...and its ratings: ( a smidge above 0)?. Grow up, Tony. (6/21/07)
Way to go Dan Cohen! Early “buzz” on his documentary has been extraordinary and certainly, it’s a worthy project to rally around! Thanks for the link and the heads-up! (6/21/07)
Let's take advantage of a slow news day to wish an early "Happy 60th Birthday" to Washington's Channel-4... incidentally, the only DC TV station with the same owner since its debut on June 27th, 1947. Read two articles about the station's start at
dcmemories.com and dcmemories.com. A third article which highlights the station's second anniversary clears-up a question that was bounced around the Mailbag recently: dcmemories.com. According to WaPost columnist Sonia Stein, "At one point (before Channel-4's Wardman Park digs were ready) some telecasting was done from the WRC studios on 14th st. (at the old Translux Bldg.)" (6/21/07)Holy shit! Of all of the garbage that I have EVER heard on radio, listening to Don and Mike today was without, the worst ever. Two sweaty fat asses talking about people parking their cars? Really, can anyone say that they are even trying at this point? You fluffy pricks should pay people to listen to you. (6/21/07)
Heard a blast from the past last Sunday on WPOC. Former WAVA PD (and constant Don and Mike target) Smokey Rivers guest hosting The Country Top 40 syndicated countdown. Seems he's gone country in the DFW market these days. Tom (6/21/07)
Dave did Murdoch pee in your cheerios? This guy gives money to anyone that he views may support his business interests. I know for sure he's given money to Hillary and if I was not so lazy I would look up to see the detail of his other offerings. You need to find some other reason to hate him. Also its laughable that people think Fox is so far right. Please. With all the viewing and listening you libs here claim you do to fox and other perceived enemies, it would be as obvious as the pimple on your nose that are about as balanced as things come. Transmitted via my embedded Blackberry in my Escalade with the AC on full and the windows down. (6/21/07)
Dave's response: You know what makes me the most angry with Fox News these days? How little "play" they are giving to those brave US troops who die in Iraq. I realize that Roger Ailes and Brit Hume are good friends of W, and want to make him look as good as possible, but to barely mention the troop sacrifies in this war is really shameful. 14 more today! So sad. Especially, when Fox clowns like John Gibson and Geraldo get orgasmic when Paris Hilton farts. Everyone I know thinks of Fox as a credibility-lite joke of a "news" channel. Ratings? Yeah, sure. Respect? Are you kidding?
Dave, First I thought Pat Garett was 92 Q's v/o guy, there can't be two of the same voice in the market?...Second the problem at CBS is Jack-FM eats into 101.9 Lite-FM's playlist to some degree and is probably taking away to some extent the younger core of their audiance. I guess it may not matter because they are all owned by the same company but there is a lot of crossover. It does makes sense for Mix to go CHR and for 101.9 Lite-FM to a get a little hotter, but not crazy hot. Some of Beyonce's work can be classified as R&B which can fit on an A/C. I am of the belief if carefully done, you can have an A/C/Hot A/C mix. The problem is, does that then make it too much like Jack-FM...Love Shack does not belong on an A/C station, a Hot A/C yes and on Jack-FM yes...When it comes to the 80s, the rock/retro & some pop songs get played on Hot A/C and the pop/soft rock songs get played on the A/C...Also, CHR has not worked in this town since B104 went off the air, why will it work now?...Maybe though the consultants and Phillips are allowing Kidd to make Mix CHR and give him more than one or two books to see if CHR can again work here. (6/21/07)
rule #31 from the Don & Mike How To Get Your Radio Ratings Up book, Talk endlessly about all the crusty old radio engineers who've worked with you at your stations. Wake me up before i go go. HY (6/21/07)
I just got home from work and have been thinking about the Stephen Hunter issue off and on all day. There is a justifiable lawsuit here that goes to the core of freedom of expression. Along with the responsibility to be able to report objectively, I don't think Hunter gets himself in a jam here unless perhaps he's reviewing a Michael Moore or Al Gore film, and the Washington Post absolutely has no right whatsoever to warn him not to contribute to any cause, religion, political party, PAC or issue oriented non-profit with a registered lobbyist. If there can be obvious connections between previous employers such as MSNBC's Chris Matthews and Tip O'Neill, or in Hunter's case perhaps the late Jack Valenti of the MPAA being a former Kennedy/Johnson staffer as it relates to Hunter's film connections, then the Washington Post has very little room to request or even infer that it's employees refrain from political contributions. Further, as it goes to air talent/newspersons/broadcast staff, there has always been an understanding that AFTRA/SAG, IBEW, NABET and the Teamsters make huge donations and even lend endorsements to Democratic candidates who are pro-labor...and where do you think those donations come from? Why the union dues of it's members, of course! You can't tell me, even between the two coastal production centers, that all union members in the entertainment industry are Democrats. I suggest Mr. Hunter seek legal advice immediately and slam The Washington Post with a giant civil rights lawsuit. - Disgusted in DC (6/21/07)
(The funniest think about Tony K is that he'll say something as if his opinion counts for something. Who cares if he thinks WPL is unwatchable?). Great point! He should be like other successful radio personalities who never give their opinion. Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hanity, Howard Stern, Don and Mike. You know what you call a radio "personality" who doesn't give their opinion "as if it counts"? An unemployed, ex-radio personality who never got any ratings. (6/21/07)
(RE: "Journos Write Checks To Politicos - 6/21 - Channel 5/WTTG anchor Laura Evans and Washington Post film critic Stephen Hunter make an MSNBC list of journalists who've given bucks to political causes. Evans to a Democrat, Hunter to the GOP.....") Wow check out the link for Evans (www.msnbc.msn.com). She's doing the old Texas Two Step and is not very comfortable being put on the spot. Kind of odd since it's not anything illegal. (6/21/07)
Dave's response: The problem when you buy a new house is not knowing the defects, which all houses have. Once you know the defects, then you can judge the house. Likewise, the problem with journalism is not knowing the biases of the journalist, which all journalists have. I have no problem with a journalist giving money to a political organization. But they should be up front and admit it. I do have a problem with journalists pretending that they're "fair and balanced" when they're not. Oh, if I was Laura Evans I wouldn't want it known to my employer, righty Rupert Murdoch, that I had given dough to an evil rotten "Dim-ocrat".....
("Kinda bipolar emotionally." Oh, is THAT why Tony K. always writes some of his paragraphs in italics, like he's having a conversation with himself! ) Excuse me, KOF, but maybe what Tony really has is multiple personalities, don't you think? Perhaps he can form a Bandwagon with them. KOF (6/21/07)
RE: Just heard an ad on WTNT for "Maxiderm" which promises "male enhancement in three to five seconds". That's fine as long as your actually a "male" (6/21/07)
I'm waiting to hear the vocal condemnations of the Washington Post for forcing their employees into political correctness by threatening them for contributing to impure and incorrect political organizations. If Fox had done this, the shrieks and investigations would be a hailstorm by now. I'm still waiting….Still waiting…Buehler? Buehler? Yeah, thought so. Liberals are in favor of free speech as long as it's speech they can agree with. Genghis Cohen, sick of the "business as usual" hypocrisy of Big Business, Big Media and Big Religion and waiting so he can get back home to mild and moderately tolerant Prince William County. (6/21/07)
Just heard an ad on WTNT for "Maxiderm" which promises "male enhancement in three to five seconds". Hell, a picture of Jessica Alba does the same thing for me. Dan H (6/21/07)
Tony k is still bitter he got ripped by his paper for his aweful Monday night football telecasts … the guy is just an angry old man who feels his opinion matters. When will people around here realize he’s not that good or important. I happen to like WPL, they have solid guest most shows, good panelists like mike wise, ivan carter, Jason lancanfora. Do you even think tony has watched the show? Do you think he’s a little angry he’s not on the show? He sees his fellow writers getting face time and doing well, so he’s angry and bitter as usual, the guy is a joke. They even have an asst producer blog the show from time to time and they even mention tony as being the #1 fan of the show --- www.comcastsportsnet.com does tony ever mention his boy marc sterne regularly appears on WPL? KORNHEISER IS SUCH A JERK, AT LEAST WATCH THE SHOW FIRST BEFORE YOU TRASH IT TONY !!! (6/21/07)
Dave observes/asks: “Even though I'm a lefty, I hate the term "progressive" when it refers to lefty radio talk. I mean, I guess you should then start calling WMAL "regressive" talk. Actually, that’s not a bad label. Here’s the scoop. “Progressive” means (dictionary definition) “to advance; to move forward.” And that’s a working definition of liberal (Democratic Party) ideology, too. It’s also a well-established political term—dating back more than 100 years in the United States—and relates to populism, or a focus on the needs of the common people and a more equitable distribution of wealth & power. So it’s not just a phrase Lefty Radio just made up. Dave also says: “Ditto with "progressive rock." What's that?” Same deal: “to advance; to move forward.” In other words, Not The Same Old Stuff. Conservatives, on the other hand, are dedicated to preserving the status quo—by dictionary definition “focused on maintaining the existing order and to resist or oppose change.” The rich like things just the way they are, and want to keep it that way. In fact, if they can un-do some of those wealth-sharing devices like the progressive tax system, Social Security & the public school system, better yet! So, yes, “regressive” is an appropriate tag for the Big 630. (6/21/07)
The funniest think about Tony K is that he'll say something as if his opinion counts for something. Who cares if he thinks WPL is unwatchable? All I know is he's not on it, and that's just fine. He's got the biggest ego in the DC media market. I hope someone cuts him down to size, and soon. (6/21/07)
Dave's response: Tony is really rather conflicted about his employer. One minute, he's praising the rag or one of its writers to the hilt. And the next he's savagely trashing something about it. Kinda bi-polar emotionally, if you ask me. I picture him like a male Joan Crawford in real life. "No wire hangers in the Washington Post newsroom coat closet - EVER!!!!!!"
Ouch....I remember when O&A were touting and rim sucking John Mainelli when he was bashing Stern. My, my... how times have changed, when the shoe is on the other foot. (6/21/07)
Does anyone know where to get a good, used 360 Systems Instant Replay? Please contact me at jillnado@hotmail.com. THANKS! (6/21/07)
According to a report by MSNBC the Washington Post told film critic Stephen Hunter never to contribute to the Republican Party again after they found out he gave $250 to the National Republican Congressional Committee in June 2004. "That is indeed my donation, probably an unwise idea," Hunter said. "A couple of years afterward, I was called aside by someone in management and told not to do it again. And being an obedient boy, I didn't do it again." www.msnbc.msn.com (6/21/07)
Dave's response: I don't care if Stephen Hunter supports the GOP, just keep him and his dreadful drone off WaPo Radio.....
Job Openings-SW Virginia: Director of Engineering-Blue Ridge Public Television, minimum 5 yr experience in digital environment, SBE certification, strong technical skills, proficient IT skills, responsible for 6 full time high power transmitters, budgeting. Full job description at blueridgepbs.com. Resumeand cover letter to jobs@blueridgepbs.com... Program Director-WROV-FM Roanoke (The Rock of Virginia) Minimum AA degree required www.alex.vec.virginia.com (showing $50,000) or clearcareers.clearchannel.com.... News Anchor-Roanoke Degree in Journalism required, minimum salary $40,000 dreardon@fox2127.com... I will note that this area has a much lower cost of living, and a slower, more relaxed lifestyle. Tom Conroy (6/21/07)
Regarding MIX 106.5, Lite-FM and JACK-FM, who can really classify what they are anyway? They probably already share 30-40% of each others playlist. Look, I know they don't have "records" anymore, and I'm and old f*rt, but I have this vision of some 18 year old blonde intern going down the hallway with a mail cart, taking the copy of "Love Shack", Augustana's "Boston", and "Waitin' on the World To Change" from studio to studio so that is is sure to get played at least once a day on each station. CBS Baltimore has been, and continues to be a complete mess, but who cares, since they're makin' $$$ (6/21/07)
Love that report from the people that call themselves "progressive" (no one else would). What's the mantra we always hear when someone complains about other radio formats? 'If people weren't listening, we wouldn't be broadcasting it.' But the self-proclaimed progressive types always think they know what's best for everyone else, because they think everyone else is just too stupid to know what they want. Bottom line: file the report under SOS. (6/21/07)
Dave's response: Even though I'm a lefty, I hate the term "progressive" when it refers to lefty radio talk. I mean, I guess you should then start calling WMAL "regressive" talk. Ditto with "progressive rock." What's that?
I'm confused. Why does Rupert Murdoch want to buy Pacman Jones? Isn't he always in trouble? (6/21/07)
Regarding those SUV owners of america ads now running on local DC radio, is any SUV owner out there a member of this group? How much are the dues? Must be pretty hefty to finance all those ads. - Jeff S (6/21/07)
“liberal talk radio has its on network and ... oh yeah, they went broke. No Listeners. Maybe if they had something to say, someone might listen.” Exactly! There are plenty of outlets for left view programming (Air America, Jones, Colmes) but it has very limited appeal. That has nothing to do with “ownership diversity.” It has everything to do with content. I occasionally listen to some of the left view programming and I can’t take more than 5 minutes of it. Are they really going to force stations to carry more programming that people have no desire to listen to? It’s about limiting the amount of airtime for conservative radio. If you have any doubts, click on the link and the title of the report is “The Right Wing Domination Of Talk Radio And How To End It.” If you can’t beat them and their message, limit them with regulation. Can anyone say with a straight face that the left would be pushing the fairness doctrine if talk radio were overwhelmingly liberal? How ironic that a group like this includes the term “Free Speech” in their name. (6/21/07)
Here's a shining example of the kind of ideas terrestrial radio should have, and exactly why Internet radio will die on July 15: "The Vowel Movement Weekend". community.loudcity.com. I think it's supposed to be fart humor between songs or something... I might check it out after Tony K today. (6/21/07)
You should look into the people meter story at www.radioandrecords.com they are coming to our area... I think.. Next year. BIG variation in some stations' ratings. Could be revolutionary... It appears EVERYBODY'S cume will go up... as many more people listen to radio than are reflected in filled out diaries. I suspect radio revenue will sky-rocket because national clients pay on cume, not share. (6/21/07)
Rick (King) is a gentle soul. There was never any AFTRA/NABET conflict when dealing with him. He always treated we disk jerkey's with respect. I don't know anything about Ricks personal life. I was a hell raiser in those days and Rick was a member of the early to bed, early to rise brigade. (6/21/07)
Let us take a moment to review the supposed business success stories of Mr. Danny Snyder. He bought the Redskins and has done a great job building the revenue through sky box rentals and selling sponsorships everywhere at the stadium. On the field, he has hired and fired Shottenheimer prematurely and Spurrier who had no idea what he was doing, but was paid the most in the NFL. Danny bought Six Flags which has gone in the tank and hired Marc Shapiro from ESPN to run it further into the ground. Snyder then created Red Zebra Broadcasting which he is way upside down on and no one can even hear. He hired Bennett Zier and in less than a year just about everyone was fired including Zier and the Chairman of the Board. It seems that Danny could not understand why the company was not an instant success despite the terrible signal situation. The signals were "great at his house". Then, the boy wonder worked a deal with Tom Cruise who is way past his prime just so he could sit in his luxury box and ride bikes with him in Georgetown. Snyder admitted that he paid way to much for Johnny Rockets two weeks after he bought the company. This week he bought Dick Clark Productions and his first move was to hire his current sales manager for the Redskins to run the company. He has been with the Redskins less than a year because the last guy was fired. Oh and by the way, not that Danny cares, but the team has stunk since he took over. (6/21/07)
EXCLUSIVE: PITTS HARASSER LINKED TO THE WASHINGTON TIMES reddingnewsreview.com (6/21/07)
A truly wonderful thing happened on tonight's O'Reilly Factor on television, a high school kid ate Bill O'Reilly's lunch. The story is about some teachers in Boulder, Colorado and what they said concerning drugs and sex to some high school students. O'Reilly has been ranting the last couple of days that teachers or advisors had advocated using Ecstasy, and spoke to the kids about various sexual lifestyles. I certainly don't all the ins and outs of this story, and I haven't read a transcript, all I know is O'Reilly's claims. Because he wants to seem fair, O'Reilly had on his show two students from the school in question, with opposing viewpoints on the issue. It so happened the student who was in support of what the teachers and faculty had said was a very bright kid and well prepared, and most importantly not intimidated. O'Reilly sensing that if he treated his teenage guests like an ogre or with a heavy hand would look poorly, gave them extra leeway to make their points. The one kid ran with the opportunity and proceeded to put the specific quote O'Reilly had been using concerning Ecstasy in a larger context by reading from the transcript of what was acutally said. O'Reilly became completely befuddled and went into blather mode, because it was clear that if the kid's statement was true, it actually showed that O'Reilly was using the quote out of context. The kid then proceeded to quote O'Reilly from his book for kids, which further weakened O'Reilly's argument. Then O'Reilly tried to put him off, by insinuating he had made up the quote or was misusing the quote from the O'Reilly Factor For Kids, then told the kid that he should read his book, to which the student answered "I have." The production was a little off as they were trying to give O'Reilly the last word, but they left the kid's mike open just long enough to let him answer "I Have," as Billbo was trying salvage one moment in a thorough trouncing. But, the humiliation was complete as the kid even got in the last word. It was a thing of beauty,and I became so elated I pulled my own finger. O'Reilly stuck between a rock and a hard place with a high schooler putting him in his place. I like O'Reilly, he entertains me like an organ grinder with a monkey, but we must appreciate when an underdog takes down a major league blowhard with every advantage. An Unnamed Poster (6/21/07)
This mailbag has gone to shit. Grammer, grammar, sentance, sentence, what was The Gentries (spelling off? who cares) only hit? This must end now. What happened to important things such as arguing whether or not Don and Mike suck or if Howard is better then (spelling) Opie and Antny? Instead we have a con artist and boars (again spelling) stuck in the past over who the fuck cares. Where are the debates on the hottest, male and female, news personalities or what happened to oldies radio (don't care). Where is the breaking news and I mean real breaking news? Tracey Neale to adopt? Don't care. Kim Martucci is tall? Great. I saw her at Double T in Frederick and notice her go into the toilet passing my table. When I left, I said nothing. It doesn't matter. She is only a person. Where are they now? Let them be. Keep bitching about the crap on radio and television. That is the core of the mailbag. Just stop the human interest and remember when segments. That is why Katie Couric's ratings are in the toilet plus the fact that she is a lousy reader. God bless and go with Christ. Bryslock (6/21/07)
So some liberal group has decided that talk radio is too conservative. What a bunch of crap. Well lets see, liberal talk radio has its on network and ... oh yeah, they went broke. No Listeners. Maybe if they had something to say, someone might listen. (6/21/07)
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