Entries in Metro Detroit Category

News/Talk WJR-AM 760 today announced changes to its afternoon and evening programming line up effective Monday, January 9th:

“We are pleased to announce that the Mitch Albom Show will continue to anchor afternoon drive from a new time 5-7pm,” says Mike Fezzey, WJR President & General Manager. “This enables WJR to continue the 10 year tradition of bringing the Mitch Albom Show to you live in the afternoon. This also allows Mitch the time to address other demands of his career while continuing a show that we at WJR and Mitch are both proud of.” In addition, Albom will also continue to bring “Monday Sports Albom” each Monday from 7-8pm.

Sean Hannity moves from his evening tape-delayed slot to cover 3-5pm, allowing listeners the opportunity to receive their daily dose of national and international news at an earlier time and also the chance to listen and interact with Sean Hannity live.

Following the Mitch Albom Show Tuesday thru Friday, WJR's news department will present “The Big Story” hosted by WJR's Lloyd Jackson. The hour long segment will recap top stories from the day as well as important interviews heard earlier in the day on WJR. Dr. Laura will fill the 8-11pm time slot, followed by a new voice to WJR, Mark Levin from 11pm-1am. Levin, a frequent guest and substitute host on the Hannity Show, is one of America's preeminent conservative commentators and constitutional lawyers.

Effective Monday, January 9th the WJR weekday programming line up will be as follows:

5:30-9am: Paul W. Smith Show
9-11:30am: Frank Beckmann Show
11:30-Noon: Paul Harvey
Noon-3pm: Rush Limbaugh
3-5pm: Sean Hannity
5-7pm: Mitch Albom Show
7-8pm (Monday): Sports Albom
7-8pm (Tu-Fri): The Big Story
8-11pm: Dr. Laura
11-1am: Mark Levin
1-5am: Midnight Trucking Network
5-5:30am: Morning News Center

All Access:

WKQI And Tic Tak Part Company: TIC TAK & THE FREAKSHOW -- featuring STICK & LIMPY -- have vacated the night slot at CLEAR CHANNEL Top 40 WKQI (CHANNEL 95-5)/DETROIT. (Tue 1/3)

Classic Rock Riders Get Ready To Roll Into 2006

What do you get when you bring together a group Classic Rock fans who also share a passion for motorcycles? Say hello to The WCSX Classic Rock Riders…a group of Classic Rock WCSX-FM 94.7 listeners who love the feel of the road under their wheels, the wind in their faces and of course Classic Rock!

Who can join? Anyone who loves motorcycles! Antique, Standard, Sport, Tour, Cruiser, Chopper or Scooters…All brands of bikes are welcome. The WCSX Classic Rock Riders also believe that while they are having fun, they can help out the community. That's why there is a $9.47 membership fee which benefits The Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan.

Throughout the year, the group will hold “Bike Nights” that will give members the chance to cruise, gather, party and win some great prizes. There will also be a “cyber home” located on the 94.7 WCSX web site (www.wcsx.com) that will provide information on Classic Rock Riders bike nights, rides, news, and a listing of many other great events happening in around town. Members will receive information via email on upcoming events.

To join in on all the fun, visit the WCSX booth at The 25th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Show, January 6th – 8th, 2006 at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi or head to www.wcsx.com to download a membership application and become one of the “Founding Fathers and Mothers” of the WCSX Classic Rock Riders.

Mix 92.3 to present Super Bowl Gospel Celebration Concert

WMXD-FM 92.3 has announced a radio sponsorship of the Superbowl Gospel Celebration “An Evening of Inspiration”, bringing gospel to the biggest game on earth for one sensational night in the Gospel Music Capital of the World, the City of Detroit, during Super Bowl XL. With an evening of inspirational music, soul-stirring testimonies from NFL players and surprise guests, the concert kicks-off Super Bowl Weekend at the Masonic Temple on Friday, February 3, 2006, at 7:45 p.m.

The seventh annual event will feature award-winning, singing sensation Patti LaBelle, who will serenade the audience with some gospel favorites and a few inspirational tunes of her own. Sharing the stage alongside Patti LaBelle are some of the hottest artists in gospel, including the Winans, Mary Mary, The Clark Sisters, and Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Choir and more. “We are excited to be apart of this incredible night celebrating gospel music. Some of the industry's most recognized talent will be performing on one stage. This event promises to be a memorable one!” said Jamillah Muhammad, WMXD program director.

“The 2006 event is going to be sensational,” says Melanie Few, concert founder and manager, and owner of Results Inc., an Atlanta-based marketing and entertainment agency. “We have taken this event to another level. Our show promises to once again be a true highlight of Super Bowl weekend with inspirational music and testimonies. The audience will be wowed with this soul-stirring, star-studded event.”

Tickets are $45-$75 and available at all Ticket Master locations or by phone at (248) 645-6566 or TicketMaster.com. (A nonrefundable service fee will apply). For more information on the 2006 Super Bowl Gospel Celebration, including artists, event history, media credentials, and sponsor promotions and opportunities visit www.superbowlgospelcelebration.com or www.mix923fm.com.

In its seventh year, The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration evolved from Christian NFL players wanting an inspirational, family-oriented event during Super Bowl Weekend. The event, a part of the NFL Concert Series, has drawn thousands and has proven to be one of the most attended events during Super Bowl Weekend. Each year, the gospel concert features the industries top artists joined by several current and former Christian NFL players. In the past, NFL greats Antwaan Randle El, Cris Carter, Curtis Martin, Kurt Warner, Michael Barrow, Troy Vincent, Qadry Ismail, Aneas Williams, Deion Sanders, Quincy Carter, LeVar Arrington Bryan Scott and more (just to name a few) have given their time to the event. Players share their testimonies and inspirational messages with the audience.

Page France on WDET's "In Sound" this Saturday

On Saturday January 7 at 10 PM, "In Sound" with host Jon Moshier, will air a studio A performance and interview with the band Page France and give away a signed copy of their new CD "Hello, Dear Wind". The Baltimore-based band released their second CD late last year on Fall Records. "In Sound" with Jon Moshier, a 3-hour exploration of creative sounds with a focus on new music, airs Saturday nights from 9 PM - Midnight on WDET-FM 101.9.

Rob Walker exits Clear Channel/Ann Arbor

Rob Walker, operations director for Clear Channel's 4 station Ann Arbor cluster (AAA WQKL-FM, Country WWWW-FM, Sports WTKA-AM, and Talk WLBY-AM) has exited and is headed to Seattle, WA. Walker was also serving as an on-air personality at WQKL as well as program director for W4 Country. In Seattle, Walker takes on afternoon drive and the assistant program director job at Country KKWF-FM.

Lessenberry ends public radio show

After only a few months, Jack Lessenberry's daily show on Michigan Radio (WUOM-FM 91.7 Ann Arbor / WFUM-FM 91.1 Flint / WVGR-FM 104.1 Grand Rapids) has ended. Lessenberry will continue as a contributor to Michigan radio with commentaries and interviews. His former 1-2pm timeslot is now filled with the NPR program 'Day to Day'.

Detroit News:

Free FM's big rollout of the three post-Howard Stern morning hosts happened Tuesday, and while there will undoubtedly be no Stern-sized fines from the FCC, neither was the world set on fire by wit or originality. WRIF-FM (101.1)'s Drew and Mike, Detroit morning kings, have probably lost no sleep. Stern left a gaping hole in CBS (formerly Infinity) Radio's morning schedule when he jumped to the putatively censor-free Sirius Satellite Radio, where he starts on Monday. How big a hole? It's taken three hosts to fill his shoes. Rocker David Lee Roth is now heard on Stern's East Coast stations, and comedian Adam Corolla has taken the West Coast, while Rover, a popular Cleveland morning host, was given the Midwest, including Detroit's WKRK-FM (97.1)... Stern replacement Rover practically plays dead in local debut (Wed 1/4)

Every place she shows up, she's an answer to a question: "Whatever happened to Amyre Makupson?" The question that's been occupying her these past few years runs a little deeper: What will happen to Amyre Makupson? What will become, ultimately, of us all? You? Me? Adolf Hitler? Makupson's brother who died too young? And in those last two cases, has it happened already? She doesn't know. That's why the title of her book is an inquiry and not a declaration -- "So What's Next?" Makupson, 56, the former WKBD-TV (Channel 50) news anchor, put the question to 22 people, then tucked the answers into 152 self-published pages... Makupson makes new life for herself with book on death (Wed 1/4)

Detroit Free Press:

If New Year's Eve was Dick Clark's TV swan song, how sweet it was. In Detroit, the ABC telecast of "Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve" from 11:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. on WXYZ-TV (Channel 7), featuring Ryan Seacrest and Hilary Duff, scored a 14.3 rating and 29% share. That vanquished the competition on Fox (WJBK-TV, Channel 2), where Regis Philbin scored a 3.6 rating and 7 share, and on NBC (WDIV-TV, Channel 4), where Carson Daly's effort spotlighting Mary J. Blige scored a 6.8 and 13 share... Clark tops in Detroit (Wed 1/4)

Back to the future for WLEN

WLEN-FM 103.9 Adrian reunited Jerry Hayes and Steve Barkway for the station's 5-9am morning drive slot on January 2nd- a position they held from Sept 2003 - Sept 2004. At that time, Hayes left to pursue a career outside of broadcasting and Barkway worked with two different co-hosts between and now.

"Mornings with Jerry and Steve" captured the MAB Merit Award for Broadcast Team in 2004 with a show heavy on local news, sports, and information as well as music and humor.

It's Maui Time!

It's the 20th anniversary for Active Rock WRIF-FM's longest running promotion, “Maui Time”. For the past 20 years, The Riff's afternoon drive legend Arthur Penhallow has belted out the phrase “It's Maui Time!” over the airwaves. Those three winning words have sent hundreds of listeners to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii for a week of fun in the sun. This year, to commemorate the anniversary, WRIF will send 20 listeners and their guests on the trip, this year to take place March 26 - April 1.

Beginning today, Monday January 9th, listeners will be encouraged to wait for Art to say those infamous words “It's Maui Time”! When they do, caller 34 at (313) 298-WRIF will win a trip for two. In addition, WRIF will host 8 “Maui Parties” at various pubs and restaurants throughout Detroit. Listeners will also be able to sign up for the “Unfair Internet Advantage” at the WRIF website at www.wrif.com to receive clues via e-mail on when to listen.

The contest is open to Michigan residents 21 years of age and older. For official contest rules, log on to www.wrif.com.

WDET programming notes

* The Sheila Landis Trio featuring guitarist Rick Matle, percussionist Dennis Sheridan and special guest jazz master Wendell Harrison (saxophone/clarinet) will perform live on Sunday, January 15 on WDET 101.9FM during the W. Kim Heron Program (Sundays 8-10pm). This live performance is part of the Rebirth Inc./WDET FM Live Radio Concert Series.

Sheila Landis has been performing her unique style of jazz, Latin and Blues since 1973. Her current schedule has her performing at Michigan's most prestigious festivals, concert venues and nightclubs. Clearly one of the area's finest vocalists, Sheila has been chosen as the "Outstanding Jazz Vocalist" by The Detroit Music Awards on seven occasions including 2001, 2002 and 2003. Her catalog of recorded work on her own SheLan Records has received extensive airplay in local, national and international markets.

* Detroit Public Radio will offer gavel-to-gavel coverage of the nomination of Judge Samuel A. Alito Jr. to be an Associate
Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States via a special webcast at at wdetfm.org. The Senate hearings are scheduled to begin Monday, January 9, and WDET will provide live coverage hosted by NPR's Neal Conan and Nina Totenberg for as long as the hearings last. Log on to wdetfm.org for complete coverage of this historic event.

In addition, WDET 101.9FM - Detroit Public Radio will broadcast an evening wrap-up of the day's nomination events from 7pm to 8pm, hosted by NPR's Linda Wertheimer.

New York Times:

When the public radio station in Detroit canceled some local music shows and replaced them with nationally syndicated talk and news programs, it probably expected some complaints from listeners. What it got was a lawsuit asking for their pledge money back. A group of listeners to WDET-FM in Detroit filed a class-action lawsuit against the station on Dec. 19, claiming fraud and breach of contract. The Detroit Free Press reported that seven plaintiffs filed for damages after contributing to the station's last on-air fund-raising pledge drive, which ended in October. Station managers announced the new schedule on Dec. 13. The listeners claim that they were tricked into contributing money for programs that the station already planned to cancel... Public Radio Listeners Want Their Money Back (Mon 1/9)

Detroit News:

WDIV-Local 4 plans to pull out all stops for the 2006 North American International Auto Show, says Steve Wasserman, the station's vice president and general manager. "This clearly is the biggest event in Detroit in any given year," Wasserman says. In addition to live coverage from Cobo Center during the morning, afternoon and evening news through Jan. 15, Metro Detroit's official auto show station will feature... Local 4 cameras will be everywhere at Auto Show (Sat 1/7)

How low can he go? Or more precisely, how low will Howard Stern go, when his edgy, stripper-filled, entertaining, but often tasteless morning show moves to the Sirius Satellite Radio airwaves this Monday. After all, it's almost totally up to Stern what he says or does on his new show. It's even up to the self-professed "king of all media" what time he ends his show every day, if at all. Stern has been beating the drum for 18 months about his departure from the strictures of FCC-regulated FM radio for the thus far (until and unless Congress steps in) unregulated world of satellite radio... Howard Stern is ready to talk dirty Monday on Sirius (Sat 1/7)

Flint Journal:

The bad: Nate Landesman and Alicia Bennett have to move their September wedding to March. The good: The entire thing - to the tune of up to $100,000 - will cost them nothing. Landesman of Grand Blanc and Bennett of Swartz Creek found out Friday they won Channel 7 (WXYZ)'s Dream Wedding 2006 contest. Their entire ceremony and preparation will be filmed and turned into a one-hour special to air on the channel in March... Dream comes true: TV station to pick up wedding tab (Sun 1/8)

The Listening Room Returns

Chris Felcyn's popular Sunday morning show, with his unique mix of music, commentary and humor, will return return to the Detroit airwaves from 10am to Noon beginning January 15th on Classical/Jazz WRCJ-FM 90.9. Felcyn was a long time staff member at WDET-FM 101.9 where he hosted The Listening Room before moving to WRCJ this past fall to take over middays role during the station's daytime classical hours.

Also of note at WRCJ: 90.9 FM will help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth Wolfgang Mozart with live concert performances from Salzburg on January 25, 26 and 27. More details will be provided on WRCJ in the coming days.

Michigan's Amber Alert receives grant from AT&T

The technology used to disseminate Amber Alerts in Michigan will receive a much-needed upgrade thanks to a $77,000 grant from AT&T Michigan. AT&T Michigan President Gail Torreano joined representatives from the Michigan State Police and the Michigan Association of Broadcasters to announce the enhancements at the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing.

"A missing child is every parent's worst nightmare," said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "I applaud the commitment of AT&T Michigan to partner with law enforcement and the Michigan Association of Broadcasters to expand and upgrade our Amber Alert system to help keep our children safe" ... Press release from the Michigan Assocation of Broadcasters

WJR maintains big presence at Auto Show

News-Talk WJR-AM 760 will provide several live broadcasts of its programming from the upcoming North American International Auto Show at Cobo Hall in Detroit. WJR live broadcasts from the Ford Division display are scheduled to be heard at the following times:

* Friday, Jan. 13th, 6:30-8pm: WJR Special Charity Preview Broadcast with Paul W. Smith
* Saturday, Jan. 14th and Jan 21st, 9am-Noon: The Car Show
* Sunday, Jan. 15th, 9am-Noon: The Real Estate Insiders; Noon-3pm: Home Improvement
* Monday, Jan. 16th - Friday, Jan. 20th, 9am-11:30am: Frank Beckmann Show
* Sunday, January 22nd, Noon-3pm: Home Improvement

WJR's Paul W. Smith also broadcast his morning program from the Auto Show preview days all this week.

Group to protest WDET changes in front of Cobo Hall during Auto Show Charity Preview

SaveDetroitRadio.com is organizing a protest demonstration against WDET owner Wayne State University over the station's recent programming lineup changes in the hope that management might reconsider some of the changes. From SaveDetroitRadio.com:

WDET-- Where's OUR Music? Last chance to save free-form radio- Detroit, you must speak now! We, the Public, are deeply disappointed in Wayne State University's decision to stop the broadcast of all community programming and local daytime music on WDET, 101.9 FM, Detroit Public Radio ... Please join us for a 2 hour Protest Rally on Friday January 13 at 6pm at the corner of Jefferson and Washington, across the street from Cobo Hall, during the North American International Auto Show. We want everyone to know that Wayne State University is Anti-Music! Dress Warm & Bring protest signs for the Rally...

The Daily Oakland Press:

Making fun of a person with a disability, especially someone as prominent as Dick Clark, is no laughing matter and is raising a cry of foul play in the disability community. The program director for "John and the Gator," a WXYT-AM (1270) sports talk show, Monday said cohost John Lund was verbally reprimanded for repeatedly playing a doctored tape of Clark, whose speech is impaired as a result of a stroke, as Clark counted down to the New Year in Times Square on Dec. 31. The tape of Clark's voice had him saying numbers, such as "8, 10, 6, 5, 9," in a confusing manner and reflecting the impaired speech pattern of someone who has had a severe stroke. It was played so often on the show, which airs from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., that Lund's partner, Scott "The Gator" Anderson, told his partner to leave the subject alone and move on to another topic... Disability community not laughing at radio show (Tue 1/10)

Detroit Free Press:

The new Howard Stern satellite radio show began Monday with all the expected hoopla. He put to rest rumors that he married his longtime girlfriend, model Beth Ostrosky -- in a comment complete with a federally banned expletive. "I am not married. It's a nice feeling that we get along great. We're very happy and I don't want to (expletive) it up," said Stern, who is finally free of government decency laws on Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. (Channel 100). Stern has promised everything from stripper poles to live sex on his new show. Yet he maintained his show was more about ideas. Cursing, he said, would be part of the natural progression of speech... Stern embraces freedom on, off air (Tue 1/10)

Remember Lila Lazarus, who left a job as health reporter and part-time anchor on Post-Newsweek's WDIV-TV (Channel 4) last September? Remember how the station bade her farewell and quoted her as saying she wanted to "explore new frontiers?" Well, starting in March, she'll be exploring the studios at Fox's WJBK-TV (Channel 2). Lazarus will coanchor the 11 a.m. weekday newscast with Sherry Margolis and share the lifestyle and health beat with Deena Centofanti. Lazarus spent a decade at WDIV-TV. Her March startup at WJBK indicates that she was merely waiting out a non-compete clause in her Channel 4 pact... It's 2-by-4 for Lazarus (Thu 1/12)

Let's get a few things straight about how we refer to our freeways. When was the last time you told someone you took the Reuther, instead of calling it I-696, or suggested that the way to the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is to take any combination of freeways that lead to the Chrysler (I-75), and then its downtown-bound I-375 spur to West Jefferson? Maybe you're one of the minority who knows offhand that the main road to Metro Airport is a highway partially known as the Detroit Industrial Freeway. Most of us recognize it only as I-94. You get the drift. Our freeways have names and numbers, but they're not always readily interchangeable... Just call most freeways by the numbers (Thu 1/12)

The Breakfast House downtown should be jumpin' this morning when nationally syndicated radio star Steve Harvey does his show from there on WMXD-FM (92.3). And who could blame Harvey and the Clear Channel-owned station brass if they popped some bubbly to celebrate Thursday's release of the Arbitron radio ratings for 2005's final quarter? The R&B classic station surged to a tie for No. 1 overall with ABC-owned WJR-AM. And the station was No. 1 overall with a 6.6 percentage chunk, up 1.9 from last quarter. But more important for today's broadcast, Harvey beat the station's departed syndicated morning show -- Tom Joyner, now on WDMK-FM, 105.9 -- 5.9 to 4.0 among all listeners and 6.7 to 4.5 among listeners in the key age 25-54 demographic... Happy ratings news for Detroit visitor WMXD'S Harvey (Fri 1/13)

Detroit News:

For his first show in the brave new, uncensored frontier of satellite radio, Howard Stern swore a bit and played X-rated voicemails made by a TV announcer, but there were no strippers, only putative lesbians, and he was uncharacteristically subdued for a man finally set free from the censors he so abhors. At the stroke of 6 a.m., the audio heartbeats that subscription-based Sirius Satellite Radio had been playing on its Howard Channel 100 gave way to the majestic sounds of Richard Strauss' "Also Sprach Zarathustra" (aka the "2001: A Space Odyssey" theme). In Stern style, the music was accompanied by the sound of melodic farting. "Join the revolution" and Stern's hotline number, "1-888-(rude word for a body part)" flashed on the blue Sirius radio screen. According to Stern, that cheeky hotline number is yet another insult intended for the FCC, since on terrestrial radio he was repeatedly fined for saying the word... Howard Stern unleashed in satellite radio debut (Tue 1/10)

Lila Lazarus is back. But the TV journalist, known for the health coverage appealing to the 25-52-year-old female demographic broadcast news loves so much, has switched stations. This time around, Lazarus will be bringing her mega-watt smile to Fox's WJBK-TV (Channel 2), where she will co-anchor the "Live at 11 a.m." morning newscast with Sherry Margolis. She begins the gig in March. Local news fans and gadflies may remember Lazarus waving goodbye after 10 years at WDIV-TV Local 4. She co-anchored the noon news in addition to reporting "Lila's Good Health" features before leaving back in September to pursue "new adventures" in life... Lila Lazarus returns to the air, but on Fox 2 (Thu 1/12)

There's a reason why a growing number of Detroiters are feeling a huge void, and it's not just the loss of music they mourn. In many ways, it's a whole identity. A month ago, the powers-that-be at WDET-FM (101.9) -- and it's not just one person -- abruptly canceled the weekday music shows, firing public radio pillars Judy Adams and Martin Bandyke. The station replaced the eclectic music programming that crossed all genres and decades with nationally syndicated talk and news shows from National Public Radio, oddly enough, duplicating what can be already heard with just a turn of the dial to WUOM-FM (91.7), the public-radio station based in Ann Arbor. The abrupt move has spawned a lawsuit instituted by listeners asking for their pledge-money back, as well as an organized protest group that is staging a second rally at 6 p.m. Friday night across the street from Cobo Center during the 2006 North American International Auto Show charity preview... Change at WDET will injure Detroit's cultural future (Thu 1/12)

Steve Harvey, superstar. The "king of comedy" scored big in the fall morning show ratings, causing Clear Channel-owned WMXD-FM (92.3) to rocket up in the morning show rankings (for those age 12 and up) from No. 13 in the summer to No. 3, tied with Dick Purtan and Purtan's People on CBS's oldies WOMC-FM (104.3). The local radio ratings for the fall, Sept. 22--Dec. 14, were released Thursday by Arbitron. CBS's WWJ-AM (950) maintained its solid No. 2 ranking in the morning anchored by Joe Donovan and Roberta Jasina, and WRIF-FM 's (101.1) Drew and Mike are puffing safely on their smoking patio at the top of the morning show heap, improving their 8.2 share in the summer to an 8.7 share in the fall. On the down side, Radio One-owned WDMK-FM (105.9)'s Tom Joyner morning show slipped from ranking No. 5 in the market to No. 8, but that's still markedly better than the station's pre-Joyner ranking of No. 17 a year ago... WMXD moves up in the a.m. with Harvey (Fri 1/13)

Billboard Radio Monitor:

Clear Channel/New Orleans OM Don Gosselin, who joined that cluster in November from Clear Channel/Toledo, Ohio, is heading back north to become PD for the company's AC WNIC Detroit. He replaces Darren Davis, who moved to the Windy City late last year as regional VP of programming for the Chicago Trading Zone and OM for AC WLIT and smooth jazz WNUA. Gosselin previously worked with Davis, who also served as regional VP of programming for the Detroit Trading Zone, when Gosselin was PD for AC WRVF (the River) and heritage rock WIOT in Toledo. The decision to leave New Orleans and the rebuilding effort there was difficult, Gosselin tells Billboard Radio Monitor, but Davis convinced him it was the right move... Clear Channel Vet Named WNIC PD (Tue 1/10)

Radio & Records:

Less than two months after taking over as OM of Clear Channel's New Orleans cluster, Don Gosselin is heading to Detroit to take the role of PD of co-owned AC WNIC. The position has been open since Darren Davis transferred to Clear Channel's Chicago cluster for the role of RVP and WLIT & WNUA/Chicago OM. Gosselin tells R&R, "It's going to be extremely difficult to leave here, especially after such a short period of time working with such a great group of people"... Don Gosselin To Program WNIC/Detroit (Wed 1/11)

Fall radio ratings (12+):

* Detroit

* Toledo

* South Bend

All Access:

WDVD's Blaine & Lisa Pay Tribute To Brad & Angelina: ABC RADIO Hot AC WDVD/DETROIT, MI's morning show with BLAINE & LISA came up with a great bit to pay tribute to ANGELINA JOLIE and BRAD PITT on the news that the couple are now expecting a baby. To hear the audio, click here. (Thu 1/12)

Broadcasting & Cable:

Nielsen Media Research launched its new electronic ratings system in Detroit and Dallas-Fort Worth one week ago and the ratings company says early results for its Local People Meter (LPM) system shows increases in TV viewing in both markets. The two are the latest top 10 markets to adopt the new ratings system. Since November, Nielsen has been tracking LPM data alongside the traditional paper diary and set-top meter system. On Jan. 5, the two markets converted exclusively to LPMs. Nielsen increased the sample in Detroit from 410 households to 622 and raised the Dallas-Fort Worth pool from 420 to 612. In both markets, daytime and late fringe showed the biggest gains under LPM measurement... LPMs Boost Ratings in Detroit, Dallas (Thu 1/12)

WDET to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with special programming

Detroit Public Radio will be celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. throughout the coming weekend (January 14-15) and on Monday, January 16, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Listeners are invited to tune in on Saturday, January 14 for a special edition of Folks Like Us with Matt Watroba (11am - 2pm) that will feature "Carry It On: the life and musical legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." Matt Watroba will devote the entire program to exploring the music of the Civil Rights movement and the philosophy and teachings of Dr. King. Joining Matt Watroba live in the studio will be folk singer and political activist Charlie King. "Putting this show together put me back in touch with both the power of Dr. King's words and the amazing body of music that grew up around it," Watroba said. "I was moved putting it together and I hope listeners will be moved when they hear it."

On Sunday, January 15, Robert Jones, host of Deep River (1 - 3pm) will explore the spirituals that wove their way through the Underground Railroad and became staples of the Civil Rights movement as they were adapted and changed. These songs became the glue that held the movement together and the spark that fueled the marches and the meetings. Later that day, WDET music host W. Kim Heron (8 - 10pm), will play music from an English tribute to Dr. King entitled "Let Freedom Ring!" by saxophonist Denys Baptiste featuring narration by the Nigerian writer Ben Okri.

On Monday, January 16, WDET News will broadcast a recording of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream" speech that was recorded in Detroit on June 23, 1963. The legendary speech will air at 8:30am (during Morning Edition) and will run in its entirety (about 30 minutes). "We're proud to be able to honor Dr. King's legacy with special programming," said Allen Mazurek, WDET interim program director. "We should all remain inspired by his work, and the efforts of civil rights leaders both in Detroit and around the world." Listeners can get more details on this and all of WDET's programming at the station's website: wdetfm.org.

WRIF to presents the 2006 Sabrina Black Benefit

Active Rock WRIF-FM 101.1 has announced The 2006 Sabrina Black Benefit which will take place at the Emerald Ballroom, located in downtown Mount Clemens on Thursday, February 16th 2006. Sabrina, the wife of WRIF weekend jock Steve Black and former news reporter for Sports WDFN-AM 1130, was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2000 and has undergone numerous chemotherapy and radiation treatments as well as two bone marrow transplants. Despite all the treatments, the cancer has moved and expanded throughout the years. Due to these extensive treatments, Sabrina has also had to deal with heart failure, ammo, low blood pressure and graft versus host disease. The couple continues to remain hopeful, as Sabrina has overcome several seemingly insurmountable obstacles throughout the ordeal.

Headlining the event is Flask, featuring Kenny Olsen, a former guitarist for Kid Rock. In addition, the night will feature live music from Dave Edwards & The Look, Brian Schram Band, Ray Street Park, Paper Street Saints and Dirty Americans.

Doors will open at 7pm and admission will be $10 at the door. There will also be a silent auction and a raffle, featuring autographed rock memorabilia from Ted Nugent, Disturbed, The Deftones, Three Doors Down and more. In addition, sports memorabilia will be available for auction from the Pistons, Red Wings, Tigers, and the Lions. All proceeds from the night will go to the Sabrina Black Fund.

The Riff's “Big Daddy” Arthur P. will start the night by broadcasting live from Johnny G's restaurant, directly next door to the Emerald Ballroom from 3pm to 7pm. Following Art will be WRIF's night jock, Meltdown, live from the Emerald from 7pm to midnight. Also, The Riff's “Doc of Rock”, Doug Podell will emcee the event.

Detroit Free Press:

Feb. 24 has been set as the date for Dick Purtan's Salvation Army radiothon on WOMC-FM (104.3) to help the organization's Bed & Bread food and shelter program for area needy people. Purtan and his morning show gang will be on the air for 16 hours starting at 6 a.m. from center court at Oakland Mall. The goal: to beat last year's mark of $1,723,088, which appears to be a one-day national fund-raising record for radio. Since 1988, the Purtan radiothon has raised more than $10.5 million for the Bed & Bread program. Expect live performances by local musicians and comedians, and interviews with celebrities, sports figures, politicians, business leaders and metro area children who came up with creative ways to collect money on behalf of their classrooms or schools. Details at www.womc.com... Purtan sets radiothon date (Mon 1/16)

Detroit News:

Howard Stern has now broadcast for a full week on Sirius Satellite Radio, and despite all the media hoopla, the world as we know it spins on in the starry cosmos. It might be a good time for us to point out that in Detroit (and several other markets, such as Minneapolis), Stern was not the king of all media. The fall Arbitron ratings released Thursday showed that in the overall 12 plus age group, even with Stern's show, his Detroit station WKRK-FM (97.1) ranked only No. 15 in the market, with a 2.7 share. He did best in the 18-54 age group, ranking No. 5, but that still lagged behind WRIF-FM's Drew and Mike (No. 1), WKQI-FM's Mojo in the Morning (No. 2), WJLB-FM's Serch in the Morning (No. 3) and WMXD-FM's Steve Harvey show (No. 4). So as the book closes on this first week of Stern unleashed and uncensored, how has life changed as we know it?... Stern gets through his first week on Sirius (Sat 1/14)

All Access:

Clear Channel Ann Arbor Names Three New PD's: CLEAR CHANNEL Country WWWW/ANN ARBOR, MI morning man BRIAN "BUBBA" COWAN adds PD stripes in addition to his current duties. Concurrently, CC ANN ARBOR AAA sister WQKL names BRAD SAVAGE for PD duties. SAVAGE comes to WQKL from CLEAR CHANNEL Alternative WMAD/MADISON, WI where he was also PD. Later in the afternoon, it was announced that Sports WTKA-A PD RYAN MAGUIRE has been named PD of crosshall sister Progressive Talker WLBY-A. MAGUIRE will continue to program WTKA-A.

Tic Tak Gets Kissed ... OK, Just Smooched: A zillion folks reported that former CLEAR CHANNEL WKQI (CHANNEL 95.5)/DETROIT night dude TIC TAK & THE FREAK SHOW made a SUNDAY cameo last night (1/15) on sister Top 40 WKSC (KISS 103.5)/CHICAGO, touching off all sorts of rumors. Well, inside sources tell ALL ACCESS it was nothing more than the available MR. TIC TAK sticking his hand up for the available shift.

Detroit HD FM Radio gets a big content boost

As part of broadcasters' plan to promote high definition radio, members of the HD Digital Radio Alliance have announced plans for secondary streams on more than 250 of thier stations- several of which have already hit the air, with the rest following in the days ahead. The alliance includes major radio companies Clear Channel, CBS, Greater Media, ABC/Disney, Bonneville, and Emmis.

Here are the announced HD2 streams announced for Detroit stations involved with the alliance:

Clear Channel's WMXD-FM 92.3- Gospel
ABC/Disney's WDRQ-FM 93.1- no plans announced
Greater Media's WCSX-FM 94.7- Deep Trax (Classic Rock)
Clear Channel's WKQI-FM 95.5- New Top 40
ABC/Disney's WDVD-FM 96.3- no plans announced
CBS's WKRK-FM 97.1- News
Clear Channel's WJLB-FM 97.9- Classic Hip Hop
CBS's WVMV-FM 98.7- Traditional Jazz
CBS's WYCD-FM 99.5- Future Country
Clear Channel's WNIC-FM 100.3- AC Ballads and Love Songs
Greater Media's WRIF-FM 101.1- Riff2 (Local Rock/Hip Hop)
Crawford Broadcasting's WMUZ-FM 103.5- Hot Christian AC
CBS's WOMC-FM 104.3- History of Rock & Roll
Greater Media's WMGC-FM 105.1- More Magic (Soft AC days, Classical overnights)
Clear Channel's WDTW-FM 106.7- Live Rock

The stations above will also broadcast thier primary formats on their main HD stream. Greater Media's WCSX, WRIF, and WMGC have been operating and promoting their HD2 streams since late last summer.

The other major FM stations in town, CIMX-FM 88.7, WRCJ-FM 90.9, WUOM-FM 91.7, CIDR-FM 93.9, WDET-FM 101.9, WHTD-FM 102.7, WDMK-FM 105.9, and WGPR-FM 107.5 have not announced plans for secondary streams and several have not launched any secondary digital services. WDMK does offer an HD broadcast of its regular programs. As CIMX and CIDR are based in Canada, they will not be involved, for now at least, in the In Band On Channel (IBOC) digital system that the FCC has approved for US stations.

WMUZ had been simulcasting the programming of religious WRDT-AM 560 on its HD2 channel since it came live in July 2005 and went to All-Christmas music during the past holiday season. WMUZ HD2 is now Hot Christian AC, a spunkier version of what airs on the 'regular' WMUZ. Crawford also plans on bringing WEXL-AM 1340 online with daytime HD programming by early summer 2006.

If you're interesting in hearing all this new programming-- good luck. HD radios have not become popular items in stores quite yet but the HD Radio Alliance hopes that the availability of programming will increase consumer interest and demand for HD sets.

Detroit News:

Get ready -- in the next two to three days there will be an assortment of new channels on your "free" radio airwaves, all part of a push to bring more variety to bored FM listeners. On Wednesday, the HD Digital Radio Alliance revealed which markets would begin broadcasting part of some 264 new "HD2" multicast channels first. Detroit is one market that will receive some of them. Radio's top-12 markets are part of the first wave, in addition to Seattle, Baltimore, Cincinnati and 13 others. "Listeners will now have even more local choices of new and diverse programming," said Peter Ferrara, president and CEO of the HD Digital Radio Alliance. "I think a lot of people are going to want an HD Radio for their car, home and office." Of course, Detroit already has a number of HD2 stations, if you've got a high-definition radio and can hear them... Detroit chosen to ride first wave of HD radio (Thu 1/19)

For more than a year now, radio programmers have been obsessed with the iPod. They've been launching iPod Shuffle-like formats such as "Jack" ("Doug" here in Detroit), some stations give away iPods in promotions, while others decry the popular audio players as death to their industry. That wary attitude may change a bit as Apple announced a revolutionary device at the Macworld conference: an iPod Radio Remote, retailing for $49. The remote allows you to both control your iPod from afar -- if it's in your backpack, say -- but it also lets you listen to your favorite FM radio station... Remote turns iPod into FM radio (Fri 1/20)

Detroit Free Press:

"Four and 26 to go, Chauncey on the sideline, lobs to Rasheed, Rasheed turns and faces, FIRES OFF THE GLASS AND HE HIT IT! COUNT THAT BABY AND A FOUL!" In his 30th NBA season, with more than 2,600 games under his belt as the voice of the Pistons, George Blaha's up-tempo and unique play-by-play calls have thrilled fans since the days a once-struggling franchise sometimes hosted 4,000 diehards at Cobo Arena. "I agree with people who tell me they like George's broadcasts because they're never boring. He can make a preseason contest sound like Game 7 of the NBA Finals," said Joe Abramson, in his 23rd season as Blaha's home game statistician. "He also does it without damaging the integrity of the game, because as George will tell you, he's not the show, the players are." Blaha, 61, was raised in Iowa until moving to Grayling at age 13... 30 seasons of George Blaha (Wed 1/18)

Dick Purtan will be hosting the morning show on CBS Radio-owned oldies station WOMC-FM (104.3) for five more years. At the pact's completion, his Detroit career would pass the 45-year mark. Quipped Purtan: "The people have spoken, but I've decided to sign a new contract anyway." Purtan's longtime attorney, Henry Baskin, confirmed the new deal Thursday morning, but he declined to specify a salary figure. It's generally believed that Purtan set the standard for Detroit radio salaries, with an annual paycheck of about $4 million. However, Purtan's senior career status -- he's in his late 60s -- and radio's economic problems could mean that he may have settled for less. As part of the deal, Baskin said, CBS agreed to make a $50,000 donation to the Gail Purtan Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. It's named after Purtan's wife, who has survived several treatment regimens since 1997... Dick Purtan signs for 5 more years on WOMC (Fri 1/20)

FSN Detroit to present “Homecoming Week” Jan. 22-28

In the days before Super Bowl hoopla in the Motor City kicks into full gear, FSN Detroit presents its own week of big events as the region's wintertime teams combine for eight games in seven days from Jan. 22-28, all in front of hometown fans. Dubbed “Homecoming Week”, it includes three Pistons games, three Red Wings games and a CCHA doubleheader.

Here's the day-by-day lineup for “Homecoming Week” on FSN Detroit:

* Sun Jan 22, Pistons vs. Houston Rockets – 5:30 PM
* Mon Jan 23, Red Wings vs. Nashville Predators – 7:00 PM
* Tue Jan 24, Red Wings vs. Nashville Predators – 7:00 PM
* Wed Jan 25, Pistons vs. Milwaukee Bucks – 7:00 PM
* Thu Jan 26, Red Wings vs. Vancouver Canucks – 7:00 PM
* Fri Jan 27, Pistons vs. Memphis Grizzlies – 7:30 PM
* Sat Jan 28, CCHA: Northern Michigan at Western Michigan – 4:30 PM
* Sat Jan 28, CCHA: Michigan vs. Michigan State @ JLA Detroit– 7:30 PM

Radio and Records:

United Stations Radio Networks inks a multiyear pact with Mort Crim Communications to provide sales, affiliate relations and distribution for Crim's daily short-form programs, "News You Care About," "Second Thoughts" and "American Spirit." Crim, a 35-year veteran broadcaster, is the voice of all three products, which currently air on more than 700 affiliates nationwide. USRN Signs New Deal With Mort Crim Communications (Thu 1/19)

All Access

WDVD's Blaine & Lisa Interview Rod Marinelli: ABC RADIO Hot AC WDVD/DETROIT, MI's morning show with BLAINE & LISA interviewed new LIONS coach ROD MARINELLI this morning and talked about everything from what part of town they plan to live in, to the teams plans for Quarterback JOEY HARRINGTON. MARINELLI told the morning show, "...I want to have a chance to sit down and visit with him. I want to get the Offensive Coordinator in place. That's the thing I like to start with first..."

Dispute Arrises Over Three Mort Crim Programs: Just a day after USRN announced a deal whereby they entered into a long-term marketing agreement with MORT CRIM COMMUNICATIONS, INC. (see NET NEWS 1/19), CRIM's previous distributor, LIFESTYLE TALKRADIO NETWORK, is notifying all CRIM affilates that LIFESTYLE will continue to produce the CRIM-related "SECOND THOUGHTS," "AMERICAN SPIRIT," and "NEWS YOU CARE ABOUT" features with regular CRIM fill-in host, DAVID WEISS, stepping up as full-time host/head writer. For their part, CRIM and USRN are planning produce three new shows to replace "SECOND THOUGHTS," "AMERICAN SPIRIT," and "NEW YOU CARE ABOUT" (the new shows will be called "MORT CRIM--ONE MOMENT PLEASE," "MORT CRIM--STORIES FROM THE USA," and "MORT CRIM--NEWS YOU'LL TALK ABOUT," respectively). Both sides maintain that they own the rights to the three disputed shows, and both sides are vowing legal action in the wake of the dispute.

JJ & Lynne Host 28 Hour Radiothon January 26th & 27th

This Thursday, January 26th at 6am until Friday, January 27th, at 10am, 94.7 WCSX's Classic Rock Morning Show hosts Jim Johnson and Lynne Woodison (JJ & Lynne) will take over the station's airwaves for the 15th Annual WCSX Radiothon. For 28 consecutive hours, JJ & Lynne will broadcast live from the center court at Oakland Mall in Troy to raise money and awareness for the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan (CLF). This long running fundraiser has to date raised over raised $2,500,000 for the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan.

Listeners will have a chance to bid on a large array of items during the on-air auction and onsite at a special silent auction including:
* Lunch with Chris Chelios
* OverEasy backyard concert and broadcast with JB Davies and The Milroys
* Tickets to the Sports Illustrated Super Bowl Party
* Tickets to the Playboy Super Bowl Party
…and much more!

CLF of Michigan is a statewide organization that provides information, financial assistance and support for adults and children affected by leukemia, lymphoma, and other related blood disorders. The WCSX Radiothon is one of the major sources of revenue for the foundation.

New Podcast Focuses On Local Talent

Combining a unique blend of acoustic Classic Rock and releases from emerging area musicians, 94.7 WCSX's OverEasy has been a Motor City weekend radio staple for over 15 years. Continuing the commitment to local music, 94.7 WCSX will now present The OverEasy Podcasts, 30 minute “music shows” focusing on the many talented independent musicians living and working in and around Michigan whose music captures the spirit of the OverEasy program. OverEasy Podcasts will be free for music fans to download via the WCSX web site at www.wcsx.com. Right now, WCSX is accepting submissions of music by independent artists who own their material. Complete details on the submission requirements can be found online at www.wcsx.com/overeasy.

The 94.7 WCSX OverEasy Podcasts will be posted and available for download approximately twice a month. Artists who have been selected for inclusion will be notified via email.

Glenn Haege to give away exotic vacations during the Ultimate Home Show

Home improvement guru Glenn Haege has announced another great reason for homeowners to visit The Ultimate Home Show at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in February, free trips to exotic Mazatlan, Mexito during the “Great Escape Giveaway” promotion. America's Master Handyman continues his tradition of hosting quality intimate home shows at no cost to area homeowners where they can visit with home improvement experts as they discuss hundreds of money-saving products and services.

Both parking and admission for The Ultimate Home Show are free. Show times will be:

• Friday, February 10th from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Saturday, February 11th from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday, February 12th from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

This annual show attracts Glenn Haege fans from all over Michigan and northeast Ohio who come to visit Glenn, listen to his live nationwide broadcast and to get FREE expert advice from him and the show's exhibitors. Over 50 exhibitors will be on site to answer home improvement questions, ranging from cabinets, to heating and cooling, to roofing and it is all free. For more information about the show visit www.wdfn.com or call (248) 324-2017.

Show Special Events – February 10 - 12, 2006:

* Glenn Haege Live! – Glenn will be broadcasting from the show live on WDFN 1130-AM from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon on Saturday and Sunday.

* “Great Escape Giveaway” – Show attendees can win an exotic seven-day trip to Mazatlan, Mexico plus other fabulous prizes such as gift certificates for Lucido Fine Jewelry. Entry forms are available in the January/February issue of Spree Magazine, the February issue of Save-On Everything and advertisements in the Detroit News and Oakland Press. Drawings will be held at The Ultimate Home Show on Saturday, February 11th and Sunday, February 12th at 2:00 p.m. both days. All Entry Forms must be placed in the drawing bin by 1:55 p.m. on both days. Visit www.wdfn.com for complete details and rules.

* Free Antique Appraisals - Knightsbridge Antique Mall will offer free appraisals for all attendees on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

* Free Scrap booking Demonstrations – The Scrapbook Zone from Farmington Hills will offer free scrap booking demonstrations for all attendees on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

* Free Prizes – Show attendees can also participate in enter-to-win contests during the entire show at WDFN's Promotions Booth located inside the exhibit area. Exhibitors and sponsors are donating free prizes all weekend long.

Detroit Free Press:

Detroit music scene-ster and former WDET-FM (101.9) personality Martin Bandyke will be back on the radio hereabouts regularly and soon, the Free Press has learned. What station? Expect word next week and a show launch the week after... Bandyke plans airwaves return (Sat 1/21)

If you have cable TV, like two-thirds of the country, you likely get a bundle of 50 or more stations, of which, research shows, a typical household will watch only 17 with any regularity. So why do you have to pay for the rest? Congress, with apparently nothing more important to do after screwing up Medicare and yelling at baseball players for using steroids, is looking into this. Don't be surprised if, like so many things in which Washington meddles, cable ends up costing you more for less as a result... Channel Changers (Sun 1/22)

All Access:

Ex-WDET's Martin Bandyke Joins WQKL For Mornings: CLEAR CHANNEL AAA WQKL/ANN ARBOR hires MARTIN BANDYKE for mornings, effective JANUARY 30th. BANDYKE spent 22 years at Noncomm AAA WDET/DETROIT, which recently flipped to News/Talk. WQKL GM BOB BOLAK said, "We started to talk with MARTIN several years ago when he was at WDET. MARTIN has a reputation in this region, and in the music industry, as a foremost music expert. A key attribute to the Adult Alternative radio format are hosts that are musicologists and can share new music and new artists with our listeners. When MARTIN became available several weeks ago, we moved as swiftly as possible to get him back on the airwaves." (Mon 1/23)

Dom Gets CC RVPP Stripes: ALL ACCESS hears that CLEAR CHANNEL/DETROIT OM and Top 40 WKQI (CHANNEL 955)/DETROIT PD DOM THEODORE has been promoted to Regional VP/Programming. He will retain his CC/DETROIT OM and WKQI PD duties. (Mon 1/23)

Radio Ink:

Following up on Friday's United Stations/Mort Crim story, we heard separately from Crim and Lifestyle TalkRadio EVP Jeff Weber. Weber wrote: "Our company owns the features names 'Second Thoughts,' 'American Spirit' and 'News You Care About.' We have every intention of maintaining these segments and in fact continue to syndicate them across the country. Veteran radio personality David Weiss, Mort's permanent substitute host, will now voice the features ... From Mort Crim to his affiliates: "You have been loyal to me and my programming over the years, and I trust you'll want to air my new programs. "I recently exercised my option to terminate my relationship with LifeStyle TalkRadio Network. In response, LifeStyle stopped distributing my programs and started offering cloned versions in which I had no involvement. "You were then threatened by the Lifestyle TalkRadio Network that your station could be
in a “potentially dangerous legal position” by airing my new features. THIS IS NOT THE CASE and here's why... It's Crim Vs. Weber In "Title Match" (Mon 1/23)

Mix 92.3 to give away Super Bowl tickets tomorrow

Adult Urban WMXD-FM 92.3 has teamed up with Sam's Club have and the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration to give away a pair of Super Bowl XL game tickets to a lucky listener, compliments of Sam's Club. Tomorrow, Saturday, January 28th, from 12 noon to 3pm, Mix 92.3 will broadcast live from the Sam's Club at 31720 Gratiot Avenue in Roseville to give one lucky person two tickets to the Super Bowl on February 5th. The winner will walk away with a pair of tickets by the end of the broadcast. In making sure everyone can take part in the festivities, Sam's Club will provide complimentary guest passes for admittance into the store so the general public can participate along with Sam's Club members. In addition to the Super Bowl game tickets, patrons will have an opportunity to meet Detroit Lions defensive end Cory Redding and wide receiver, Eddie Drummond. Plus top Detroit gospel artists, The Triumph Choir - Chris Jones & High Praise, will perform spiritual and uplifting songs throughout the broadcast.

Mix 92.3's morning show, “The Steve Harvey Morning Show”, will return to Detroit from Monday, January 30th, 2006 through Wednesday, February 1, 2006. Steve Harvey and his morning show co-hosts, Jacque Reid of BET News, and comedian Nephew Tommy received a “red-carpet” welcome in Detroit over a week ago. They are coming back to help kick off Super Bowl week in Detroit. The Steve Harvey Morning Show will broadcast live from WMXD's studios in downtown Detroit on Monday and Wednesday from 6a-10a.m. On Tuesday, the general public can join them as they broadcast live from Fishbone's Rhythm Kitchen Café, 400 Monroe Street in Detroit from 6a-10am.

Kicking off “big game” week, Detroiters can party with Harvey at the “Big Time, Big Game All Star Bash,” on Tuesday, January 31st at the International Marketplace Ballroom located inside the Atheneum Suites Hotel – 1000 Brush Avenue in Greektown Detroit, Michigan, from 9p-2am. The party will include an all-star fashion show featuring fashions from the best of Steve Harvey's clothing line, with Steve Harvey himself emceeing. Tickets range from $150-$200 and include an open bar, complimentary food and free valet parking. For ticket information, visit www.davisevents.com or www.mix923fm.com.

Ann Arbor News:

Motown's loss is Ann Arbor's gain. Martin Bandyke, for 22 years a fixture at public radio station WDET in Detroit, will take over the 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Monday-Friday slot at Ann Arbor station WQKL (107.1 FM) beginning Monday. Listeners can expect music in keeping with the station's "adult album alternative'' format, as well as background information about the music and artists being played. "Martin has a reputation in this region, and in the music industry, as a foremost music expert," said station General Manager Bob Bolak "A key attribute to the ... format are hosts that are musicologists and can share new music and new artists with our listeners." Bandyke graduated from the University of Michigan in 1976 with a bachelor of arts degree in radio, television and film. Raised in Dearborn and currently living in Harper Woods, Bandyke said he plans to move to Washtenaw County soon. "I can't wait to get started," Bandyke said about his upcoming gig... Bandyke to DJ at local station (Tue 1/24)

Detroit Free Press:

There you go. As reported here Saturday, 22-year WDET-FM (101.9) music host Martin Bandyke has new work. Starting Monday, Bandyke will join Ann Arbor's Clear Channel-owned WQKL-FM (107.1) as host of its Monday-Friday 6-10 a.m. morning show. The station's music mix is close to the artists he played on WDET: KT Tunstall, Death Cab for Cutie and Madeleine Peyroux with mainstream artists like Dave Matthews, U2 and Coldplay. WDET dropped Bandyke's and Judy Adams' weekday shows in December for news and information. It restored weekend music shows aimed at specific genres... Eclectic beat goes on (Tue 1/24)

Bye-bye, UPN and WB. Hello, CW. The broadcast television industry was hit with a major consolidation Tuesday when CBS Corp. and Warner Bros. Entertainment announced their intent to form a new network, called the CW. It is expected to be launched in the fall. CW will be made up in part of current programming on UPN (which is controlled by CBS) and Warner's WB network. UPN and WB have relatively low ratings but do well with niche audiences. The CW's most likely strategy? Becoming a single point for reaching younger eyes with hipper programming and providing stronger, more unified competition for old guard CBS, ABC, NBC and Fox. The CW will offer its best programming from 8-10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7-10 p.m. Sundays. Also part of the deal is a 5-hour Saturday morning animation block aimed at kids. What about Detroit? The CW signed 10-year affiliation agreements with CBS's owned-and-operated UPN affiliates including Detroit's WKBD-TV (Channel 50). Left without any network affiliation after September will be WDWB-TV (Channel 20), which is in the process of being sold by Granite Broadcasting to AM Media Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Washington-based ACON Investments LLC, a privately held investing firm. Channel 20 is the primary broadcast TV carrier of the Detroit Pistons... Secondary TV networks to merge (Wed 1/25)

Shaken up: Radio One's WCHB-AM (1200) talk lineup. Mildred Gaddis remains at 6-10 a.m. weekdays, but the station will add national talkers Michael Eric Dyson, the Rev. Al Sharpton and "Two Live Stews" to fill 10 a.m. -7 p.m... Names and Faces (Thu 1/26)

Detroit News:

The WB and UPN, which have for years been floundering in fifth and sixth place, will shut down and become one network come fall, the companies announced Tuesday. The new network will be called the CW, in honor of CBS Corp., which owns UPN, and Warner Bros., a unit of Time Warner Inc., which owns most of the WB network. The WB is 11 years old, and UPN is 10. It will be a 50-50 partnership between Warner Bros. and CBS. Locally, the soon-to-be-former WDWB Channel 20, a k a WB 20, will have no network affiliation; the CW network will be carried on WKBD-TV Channel 50, the soon-to-be former UPN 50. "We don't know what the new lineup will be, but viewers can expect that the best shows from both networks will be on the CW," said Shaun McDonald, vice president and general manager at WKBD and WWJ-TV, the local CBS affiliate... WB, UPN plan to merge networks for fall as the CW (Wed 1/25)

There's finally a confirmed date for the change in WCHB-AM's (1200) daytime programming that Radio One has been signaling since last year. Starting Monday, the Radio One-owned station will begin airing daytime content from the new African-American-centered talk network that Radio One developed in conjunction with Tom Joyner's Reach Media. Mildred Gaddis will still broadcast "Inside Detroit" from 6 to 10 a.m. daily on 'CHB, but "Up Front with Karen Dumas," from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; "Your Voice with Angelo Henderson," from 3 to 6 p.m.; and Ellis Liddell's personal finance program, from 6 to 7 p.m., will be taken off the daytime schedule to make way for the talk network... New lineup for Radio One's WCHB starts Monday (Wed 1/25)

The Super Bowl is always held at a neutral site, but ABC/ESPN uberhost Mike Tirico considers himself to have home-field advantage. Tirico, who lives in Ann Arbor with his wife and two kids, is noticeably excited to play a significant role in ABC's Super Bowl coverage. He will broadcast from a set located on the turf at Ford Field, working in ABC's 3 1/2 hours of pregame show. Tirico also hopes to have a role in the postgame, perhaps handing the gleaming trophy to the winner ... The 2005 fall radio ratings book recently came out, and it revealed the competition between the sports-talk radio stations might be on for real. WXYT 1270 claimed victory, for the first time, by beating WDFN 1130. WXYT had an average rating of 3.4 to WDFN's 3.1 in the key male 25-54 demographic. In the sports-talk world, men 25-54 are the target, for advertisers and programming. WDFN led the 2005 summer book with a 5.63 average to WXYT's 2.06. Rich Homberg, WXYT's general manager, was more than happy to claim victory. "I think it's our genius talent, extraordinary programming and decent management," Homberg said, only semi-joking... Tirico's message: Quit whining, Detroit is super (Thu 1/26)

How much Super Bowl madness can one city take? Downtown Detroit will be awash in air personalities who usually beam their shows from the suburb. Channel 95.5 (WKQI-FM, 95.5) will be broadcasting next week from three parties; Thursday's Pepsi Smash at the State Theatre with Kanye West ; Friday's P. Diddy Cashmere Party at the Elysium Lounge downtown; and Saturday at the Shady Records aftermath concert at the State Theatre, with Eminem. The station's Mojo in the Morning also has a "Celebrity Challenge" contest going: Listeners try to get a celebrity to call in to the show and ask for tickets on their behalf ... Elsewhere on the dial, WOMC-FM (104.3)'s Dick Purtan and Purtan's People will leave their usual Ferndale home to broadcast live Monday through Friday of Super Bowl week from 5 to 10 a.m. from an atrium in the Renaissance Center. Tom Ryan will also be ensconced at the RenCen for his 3-7 p.m. show all week. WRIF-FM's (101.1) Doug Podell and Arthur Penhallow will temporarily vacate Greater Media's mediaplex in leafy Ferndale to broadcast from Detroit's Hockeytown Café from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. Both WRIF and sister station WCSX-FM (94.7) will also be broadcasting live from downtown's Winter Blast next Thursday through Saturday afternoon, and Sunday morning as well before the big game. Game? What game... Super Bowl XL hype strikes the radio dial (Thu 1/26)

All Access:

Bigtime "Big Game" Mojo At WKQI/Detroit
With the Super Bo.. er, "Big Game" coming to DETROIT next weekend, the MOJO IN THE MORNING SHOW at CLEAR CHANNEL Top 40 WKQI (CHANNEL 95.5) is plugged in to the many festivities surrounding the event. MOJO IN THE MORNING team member SPIKE checks in with ALL ACCESS to run down his very busy week! "We're broadcasting from three parties: KANYE WEST and NICKELBACK on THURSDAY, P. DIDDY on FRIDAY and EMINEM on SATURDAY," said SPIKE. "(Co-host) KYRA and I will represent the morning show at additional parties throughout the week. We are bowling in the PISTONS charity event and we are celebrity bartenders at the UNITED WAY charity event. We are the only morning show currently giving away game tickets, and more than one pair! We are planning a cool event that will pit national celebs vs. local celebs at a secret location, and we have been invited down to be on the JIMMY KIMMEL SHOW next THURSDAY!" MOJO will also be hosting vignettes to run on LOCAL 4 TV over the next two weeks. Lots of celebrity visits are being planned for the show, and of course, some very sneaky, evil game-related Street Scams and Phone Scams will undoubtedly happen!

WJR to offer live broadcasts this weekend from the Novi Home Improvement Show this weekend

Saturday, January 28, 2006: Noon-2PM, Home Improvement
Sunday, January 29, 2006: 9AM-Noon, The Real Estate Insiders and from Noon-3PM, Home Improvement

WDET programming highlights

Ed Gordon, Emmy-award winning journalist and host of NPR's "News & Notes with Ed Gordon" will be broadcasting his daily national program from WDET's midtown Detroit studios January 30 - February 1. Gordon, a Detroit native, discusses political issues and has conversations with newsmakers, world leaders and celebrities. WDET - Detroit Public Radio is pleased to be hosting one of NPR's finest programs. News & Notes with Ed Gordon airs weekdays from 10am to 11am.

Swimming in the same indie-pop pool as Elliott Smith, Badly Drawn Boy and Nick Drake, Jacksonville native Ashton Allen is making a big splash with his rainy-day songs. Allen is on a promotional tour promoting his debut album "Dewdrops" and stops by the Liz Copeland Program to perform in WDET's Studio A. This performance will air Wednesday night/Thursday morning Feb. 2. Alternate Take with Liz Copeland airs weeknights from midnight to 5am on WDET.

Low stops by the WDET studios for a session with WDET music host Jon Moshier, airing Saturday evening February 4th in the 10pm hour. Consisting of the husband / wife team of drummer Mimi Parker and singer-guitarist Alan Sparhawk along with bassist Zak Sally, Low is considered a so-called "slowcore" band known for it's delicate, slow, moody tunes. Low is in concert along with His Name Is Alive at the Magic Stick on Monday, January 30th. In Sound with Jon Moshier airs Saturday evenings from 9pm to midnight.

Jazz concert pianist, composer, performer & recording artist James Tatum performs live on Destination Jazz: The Ed Love Program on Thursday, February 2nd in the 7pm hour. James Tatum is one of the jazz world's most distinguished stars but is also recognized for his involvement and dedication in jazz education. Tatum has been involved with music education and jazz education in the Wayne County Community College District, Oakland University and in the Detroit Public School System for the past 32 years. Tatum brings his latest project, The James Tatum Trio Plus to WDET and Studio A for a live performance on the Ed Love program featuring James Tatum on piano, Deblon Jackson on flute, Greg Cook on string bass and James Wendell Robinson on drums. Destination Jazz: The Ed Love Program airs weeknights from 7pm to midnight.

Visit www.wdetfm.org for more info.

WCSX Radiothon helps raise over $210,000

94.7 WCSX Classic Rock Morning Show hosts Jim Johnson and Lynne Woodison (JJ & Lynne) wrapped up their 28 Hour Radiothon on Friday the 27th of January with the announcement that over $210,000 had been raised to benefit The Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan. The long running fundraiser has to date raised over raised $2.7 million for the CLF of Michigan.

Now, they turn their attention to the selection of the fourth JJ & Lynne's Stone Soup Project vehicle. You can help choose the car or truck that willbe restored and modified (“restified”) by visiting www.wcsx.com and voting on JJ & Lynne's Stone Soup page. The vehicle will then be raffled off with the proceeds also going to Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan, a statewide organization that provides information, financial assistance and support for adults and children affected by leukemia, lymphoma, and other related blood disorders. The WCSX Radiothon is one of the major sources of revenue for the foundation.

99.5 WYCD Hosts “Clint Black Tie Affair” For St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Detroit's Country station, 99.5 WYCD and Al Long Ford in Warren are teaming together for a fundraising event with Country Superstar Clint Black at the Melting Pot Restaurant in Troy, MI on Thursday, February 9th. The event, dubbed the “Clint Black Tie Affair” will be raising monies to help fight childhood cancer with the ALSAC St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, one of the world's foremost cancer research hospitals. Detroit native and worldwide entertainer Danny Thomas founded the hospital with the theme, “No child should die in the dawn of life”. “Each year Detroit's 99.5 WYCD raises funds for the hospital, and this year we've added a new exciting and fun event to help the kids”, said WYCD Program Director Tim Roberts. “Clint Black is a huge artist in our format and he's been very generous to devote an evening to helping these kids”, added WYCD Morning Host Doctor Don Carpenter. “The staff and management of the Melting Pot in Troy have been wonderful supporters of the children of St. Jude and are absolutely great to allow us to have this event at their world famous restaurant.”

Tickets for the Clint Black Tie Affair can be purchased for $100 per plate through WYCD, from 9:00am-5:00pm weekdays at 26555 Evergreen, Suite 675, Southfield, MI 48076. A limited number of tickets can also be won by stopping by Al Long Ford, at 13711 E. 8 Mile Rd. in Warren. “The staff at Al Long Ford have been tremendously supportive of our fundraising efforts”, said WYCD PD Tim Roberts. The Melting Pot restaurant in Troy is renowned for their fondue style dinners, located at 888 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 119.

Detroit Free Press:

Two years ago, Jimmy Kimmel and Detroit went through a rough patch. It was more of a spend-the-night-on-the-couch thing than a bitter divorce. And Kimmel did what a guy in the doghouse is supposed to do. He apologized once, then twice, for joking during a 2004 NBA Finals game half-time segment that the city would be burned down if the Pistons won. Now he's going the extra step and bringing us candy and flowers, so to speak. Starting Tuesday, ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is doing a week of broadcasts from the downtown Gem Theatre, including a special Super Bowl Sunday show that's part of ABC's post-game lineup. The shows will be taped around 7 p.m. and feature guests like Jessica Alba and the region's own Kid Rock. WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) plans to air them at 11:35 p.m., a half-hour earlier than usual, to give more local residents a chance to watch... Jimmy Kimmel ♥ Detroit (Sun 1/29)

Detroit News:

National and local broadcasters will be covering the Big Game from every angle at various Detroit venues. All locations are open to the public, with the exception of Ford Field and Centaur. Here's where many of the broadcasters will be: ABC Sports will be headquartered all week at Ford Field, 2000 Brush St. ESPN will be stationed at three locations for various broadcasts and events all week. One stop is the upscale lounge Centaur, 2233 Park Ave., where ESPN the Magazine has its private all-access venue with eight floors of VIP treatment. At the Town Pump Tavern, 100 W. Montcalm St., which is kitty-corner to Centaur, there will be athlete appearances and gaming competitions and the venue is open to the public. Meanwhile, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN News and ESPN's "Cold Pizza" will broadcast from the GM Wintergarden, 400 Renaissance Center... TV coverage blankets Detroit for Super Bowl week (Sun 1/29)

If you can't be at Ford Field for the Super Bowl, radio's got you covered. The game itself will be broadcast in Metro Detroit, starting with the pregame show at 6 p.m. on CBS's WXYT-AM (1270). It will also be heard on 575 stations nationally via the Westwood One / CBS Radio network. Some 120 countries will be able to tune in, as well as U.S. ships at sea (through the American Forces Radio and Television Service). The pay service Sirius Satellite Radio's NFL Radio, channel 124, will broadcast live from Detroit all week in the Renaissance Center's Radio Row. The channel also will be streamed live, free, on the NFL's official game site, www.superbowl.com. Meanwhile, Detroit native Ed Gordon, host of NPR's "News & Notes with Ed Gordon," will broadcast his show from 10-11 a.m. Monday through Wednesday from the studios of WDET-FM (101.9)... Radio dial will be spinning with sound of Super Bowl (Sun 1/29)

Bob Woodruff has always been a fighter. Whether it was on the soccer field or in the courtroom, he always knew how to get the job done. Friends and colleagues hope that fighting spirit will help the ABC co-anchor battle back from serious head injuries he suffered early Sunday after a roadside bomb exploded near his vehicle while he was covering the war in Iraq... Metro Detroit rallies around ABC's Woodruff (Mon 1/30)

Oakland Press:

Dedicated, brilliant, compassionate and devoted. The words used by close friends and people in the journalism business to describe ABC "World News Tonight" coanchor Bob Woodruff, a Bloomfield Township native, give a reflection of his work ethic in Iraq, where he was critically injured Sunday morning in the line of duty. Woodruff, a 1979 Cranbrook Schools graduate, suffered head injuries and broken bones when the Iraqi army vehicle he was traveling in was hit by an explosive device... Anchor hurt in Iraq is Oakland native (Mon 1/30)

WKRK-FM to add 'Real Money' middays

Jim Cramer, host of CNBC's “Mad Money” and markets commentator for TheStreet.com, will bring his one-hour radio show, Jim Cramer's Real Money, to eight CBS Radio stations across the country, including WKRK-FM 97.1 Detroit, beginning February 13th. The one-hour weekday program will be broadcast live from 1-2 PM Eastern- right in the middle of the 11 AM - 3 PM timeslot currenly occupied by Jay Towers and Michelle McKormick (Motor City Middays) on WKRK.

CBS Radio Chairman and CEO Joel Hollander announced that Cramer's program will also debut on WFNY-FM (New York), KNX-AM (Los Angeles), WCKG-FM (Chicago), KIKK-AM (Houston), WHFS-FM (Baltimore), KDKA-AM (Pittsburgh), and KCMD-AM (Portland). The consumer-based show will focus on how to save and invest wisely in the market, as well as examine companies large and small to assess their investment potential. Listeners will be able to interact with Cramer on-air throughout the program. David Hall, Vice President of Programming of CBS Radio's KNX-AM and KFWB-AM in Los Angeles, will serve as Executive Producer. Hall previously served as the Executive Producer of Cramer's nationally syndicated radio show when it first debuted. Additionally, Westwood One will exclusively distribute the program to all non-CBS Radio stations nationwide.

“Jim Cramer is one of if not ‘the' most entertaining financial expert in the business,” said Hollander. “His is a personality that combines wit, wisdom and unreserved enthusiasm. Couple that with some of the best advice ever heard on the radio and we have what will no doubt be one of the most talked about shows on the dial.”

“We have brought dozens of high profile on-air talent to CBS Radio in the past several months consistently enhancing the lineups on our talk and music stations,” said Rob Barnett, President of Programming, CBS Radio. “It's an honor to have him join our already outstanding roster.”

Added Cramer, “I look forward to working with CBS Radio and welcome the opportunity to do a live show during market hours where I can give my perspective on the market as it unfolds.

Detroit News:

The steady murmur coming from the bowels of the Renaissance Center on Monday could mean just one thing: The media has arrived. Thousands of reporters from around the nation are descending upon Detroit to cover the Super Bowl. Ground zero was the bottom of the Wintergarden atrium, where dozens of radio and television stations began a week's worth of broadcasts Monday. In a few days, the atrium promises to turn into a wall of sound with a smash-mouth melody as sports talk shows wrestle with each other and callers over minutia surrounding the game. The circus atmosphere will get a boost during Media Day today as players from both teams are asked the same questions dozens of times by a horde of reporters who, last year, included a puppet, B-list celebrities and a man dressed as the Joker... Sports' greatest gabfest fills RenCen air (Tue 1/31)

In between the commercials, ABC is airing a football game Sunday evening. And while the Steelers and Seahawks have just two weeks to prepare for Super Bowl XL, crews from ABC Sports have spent nearly a year planning every aspect of the country's most elaborate, splashy annual television event. "This is America's biggest show, and the whole world watches," said Fred Gaudelli, producer of ABC's Super Bowl broadcast. "You're starting with the largest audience imaginable." So ABC has assembled one of the largest remote broadcast operations imaginable to pull it off. The network has brought more than 400 people to Detroit for the Super Bowl, compared to about 120 for a regular-season "Monday Night Football" game... ABC assembles army of techies to broadcast Big Game (Tue 1/31)

The parent company of sports radio station WDFN-AM (1130) has settled a federal age discrimination lawsuit brought by a 48-year-old applicant who was passed over in favor of a younger, less-experienced producer. Clear Channel Broadcasting settled the suit for an undisclosed sum -- and U.S. District Judge Gerald E. Rosen agreed to dismiss the suit Jan. 18, court records show. "The parties have resolved their dispute. It's not going to change anything about the station's operations," Maurice Jenkins, a Detroit lawyer for the company, said Friday... WDFN parent company settles with rejected applicant (Wed 2/1)

Detroit Free Press:

The Wild Man of Wall Street Radio, Jim Cramer, is crossing the border and going live starting Feb. 13. Detroit's WKRK-FM (97.1, Live Talk) will air his raucous, from-the-lip and from-the-hip Wall Street show "Real Money" live from 1-2 p.m. weekdays... WKRK gets Cramer (Wed 2/1)

ABC's “Jimmy Kimmel Show” officials were in meetings with Comcast and ABC corporate interests Wednesday afternoon trying to figure out a way to avoid an audience snafu that marred the show's Detroit debut Tuesday night. Possible options? A nearby auxiliary viewing facility. Prize handouts for those who can't get in. A chance to meet with Kimmel and other guests outside the actual broadcast setting. Even a second nightly performance — expensive due to broadcast union requirements... 'Kimmel' ratings soar; ticket crisis looms tonight (Wed 2/1)

Seattle Post-Intelligencer:

Chris Visser was here two decades ago when this bit of zaniness started. He watched it grow. He and a handful of other visionaries cupped their hands around it and nurtured its spark to a flame... Want Super Bowl frenzy? Try Radio Row (Tue 1/31)

Radio and Records:

Former WKQI/Detroit night guy Tic Tak and his Freak Show land in afternoons at WKSC/Chicago. No lives were lost, as the airstaff compresses their shifts to accommodate his arrival. (Tue 1/31)

All Access:

CC/Detroit's Dave Pugh Transitions to D.C. as RVP: ALL ACCESS has learned the CLEAR CHANNEL RVP/MICHIGAN DAVE PUGH is headed to CLEAR CHANNEL/D.C. as RVP/WASHINGTON Region. Look for an official announcement, soon. No word on his replacement, yet.

Zonjic honored with two nominations, named host Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards

WVMV-FM 98.7 morning host and jazz flutist Alexander Zonjic has been nominated for two Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards and will reprise his role as host of the second annual competition to be held April 7 in Mississauga, Ontario at the Living Arts Centre near Toronto. Zonjic's nominations are for Best Wind Instrumentalist and for Broadcaster of the Year. Winners will be determined through on-line voting and by a panel of industry professionals. To vote, fans should visit www.canadiansmoothjazzawards.com. Voting is now open to an international audience.

Zonjic was raised and still lives in Windsor, Ontario. He performs in 100 concerts a year, is creative director for five summer music festivals and is part owner of the jazz supper club Seldom Blues. “It was a pleasure kicking off last year's inaugural ceremony and I am excited to be asked back to host this year's event,” said Zonjic.

Flint Journal:

While most of the world's media is hunkered down for Super Bowl XL at the media center in the General Motors Renaissance Center and Ford Field, Flint's WJRT (Channel 12) is holed up nearby at the Hotel Pontchartrain. The station, which is owned and operated by the network broadcasting Sunday's game, has been broadcasting its 4, 5, 6... Local TV and radio broadcasting from Detroit (Fri 2/3)

Bender named Market Manager of the Year at Radio Wayne Awards

Greater Media, Inc. has announced Senior Vice President/Regional General Manager Tom Bender has been named “Market Manager of the Year” at the 2006 Radio Wayne Awards. The honor was announced during a special breakfast hosted by the Radio Advertising Bureau at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dallas, Texas on Friday, February 3rd, 2006. “We are very proud of Tom's outstanding accomplishments. His passion, dedication, leadership and vision have made Greater Media's Detroit-based operation the outstanding organization it is today,” said Peter Smyth, President and CEO of Greater Media, Inc.

Bender joined Greater Media in November 1986. He was promoted to the position of Vice President in 1988 and Senior Vice President in 1994.
“It is truly a privilege to be chosen to receive this special award. I would like to thank Peter Smyth, John Bordes and the entire Greater Media Detroit family for giving me the opportunity to receive this special honor,” said Bender.

The Awards were founded in 1992 by Radio Ink Magazine to recognize those outstanding salespeople, managers, and broadcasters who personify the best in Radio. The awards were named in honor of the late “Radio” Wayne Cornils who served as the Executive Vice President of the Radio Advertising Bureau and the Senior VP/Radio at the National Association of Broadcasters. Cornils spent his entire career promoting the radio industry's inherent values to broadcasters, advertisers, and listeners.

Greater Media, Incorporated is the parent company of 19 AM and FM radio stations located in the Boston, Detroit, Philadelphia and New Jersey markets. In addition, it owns a modern printing plant and a group of weekly newspapers in central New Jersey; as well as several telecommunications towers throughout the United States.

Citadel and Disney finalize radio deal

Transaction results in sale of Detroit stations News-Talk WJR-AM 760, Adult Hits WDRQ-FM 93.1, and Hot Adult Contemporary WDVD-FM 96.3. The Detroit Radio Disney station, WFDF-AM 910, will continue under the ownership of Disney.

* In a $2.7 billion deal announced today, 22 ABC Radio stations and the ABC Radio Networks will be combined with Citadel Broadcasting to create a group that will own 243 radio stations in over 50 markets. The newly combined company, to be named Citadel Communications, will be led by current Citadel CEO Farid Suleman. Through a 10-year licensing agreement, Citadel will deliver ABC News radio programming, but ABC parent Disney will continue to distribute ABC News content in other formats such as broadband, wireless and satellite. ESPN Radio and Radio Disney are not included in the deal. Citadel, ABC announce merger (Mon 2/6)

* Citadel Purchases Most Of ABC/Disney's Radio Assets: The WALT DISNEY CO. and CITADEL BROADCASTING have approved a definitive agreement to combine ABC RADIO -- which includes 22 radio stations and the ABC RADIO NETWORKS -- with CITADEL BROADCASTING. The newly-combined company, to be named CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS, will be the third largest radio group in the U.S. "Our ABC RADIO business represents a premier set of assets that have been exceptionally well-managed. ABC RADIO and CITADEL are a strong strategic fit that will create one of the country's largest radio station groups," said DISNEY CO. Pres. and CEO ROBERT IGER. "With this merger we have a unique opportunity to offer DISNEY shareholders ownership in a new radio leader that will be well positioned for long-term success."

CITADEL CEO FARID SULEMAN will be CEO and lead the management team of the new company. "By joining forces to form CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS, our new company can continue to deliver on CITADEL's impressive record of success as well as pursue many exciting growth initiatives in the future," said SULEMAN. "We look forward to welcoming our talented new colleagues at ABC RADIO who have a long history of strong market performance, and are eager to work together to integrate ABC's top-notch assets into our new strategically enhanced radio group."

As mentioned, the merger includes the ABC RADIO NETWORKS, which create and distribute programming to more than 4,000 affiliates. The programming includes syndicated radio programs such as PAUL HARVEY NEWS AND COMMENT, THE SEAN HANNITY SHOW, and THE TOM JOYNER MORNING SHOW, as well as 24/7 music formats. Additionally, through an exclusive 10-year licensing agreement, CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS will deliver ABC NEWS RADIO programming to terrestrial radio stations. DISNEY will continue to retain rights to deliver ABC News content in other formats such as broadband, wireless and satellite.

After the transaction, CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS will be comprised of 177 FM stations and 66 AM stations, in addition to the ABC RADIO NETWORKS. As part of the transaction, 14 FM and 8 AM ABC radio stations in nine major markets, including NEW YORK, LOS ANGELES, CHICAGO, SAN FRANCISCO and DALLAS, will join CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS. ESPN RADIO and RADIO DISNEY are not included in the transaction.

Following the completion of the merger, DISNEY shareholders will own approximately 52% of CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS, and DISNEY will retain $1.4 to $1.65 billion in cash depending on the market price of CITADEL BROADCASTING at the time of closing. CITADEL shareholders will own the remaining 48% of the combined company. Valued at approximately $2.7 billion, the deal is expected to be completed by the end of the year, subject to regulatory approvals. All Access.com (Mon 2/6)

* Disney to merge ABC Radio Network, Citadel (Associated Press, Mon 2/6)

The 5th Annual “Women Who Make Magic®” Awards

Magic 105.1 (WMGC-FM), home of Jim Harper & The Magic Morning Show, is kicking off the 5th Annual “Women Who Make Magic®” Awards. Magic 105.1, along with Kroger, Health Alliance Plan (HAP) and Wright & Filippis, is proud to accept nominations for “Women Who Make Magic®.” Do you know a woman who has made some magic in your world? Please send your nominating stories to:

Women Who Make Magic®
Magic 105.1FM
One Radio Plaza
Detroit, MI 48220

You can also e-mail your nomination to: women@detroitmagic.com. Please include a photo of your “Magical” nominee!

Every Friday morning through May, Jim Harper & The Magic Morning Show will recognize two amazing “Women Who Make Magic.” Each nominee will receive two tickets to attend the Women Who Make Magic® Awards Banquet at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom in Warren and a $50 Kroger gift card. The 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards Banquet and Dinner will be held on Thursday, June 12th at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom on 14 Mile in Warren. More details, including ticket information, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Red Wings, U.S. Hockey star Chris Chelios shines under the FSN Detroit “Spotlight”

The latest installment of FSN Detroit's Spotlight profiles Detroit Red Wings defenseman, U.S. Olympic team captain and future Hall of Famer Chris Chelios. Spotlight: Chris Chelios airs Sunday, February 12 at 10:00 PM (or immediately after ACC basketball) and is repeated Monday, January 13 at 7:00 & 10:00 PM. The episode is narrated by FSN's Red Wings analyst Mickey Redmond. Spotlight is a series of original half-hour programs profiling some of the region's prominent sports personalities. Each episode combines the perspectives of the person profiled along with fresh and historical footage to tell the story.

From humble beginnings to success at every stop – NCAA champion, Olympic medalist and captain, Norris Trophy winner, Stanley Cup champion – Chelios is arguably the best American-born player ever. Spotlight examines how Chelios acquired his signature toughness and beat the odds to reach his hockey dreams. The show also addresses how Chelios, once an arch villain to Red Wings fans, made the transformation to becoming an entrenched Detroiter, where he is raising his family and operating as a successful restaurateur. In addition to Chelios, others appearing in the episode include Detroit teammate Niklas Lidstrom and Red Wings general manager Ken Holland.

All Access.com

Big Boy In Da Hizzouse At WKQI: CLEAR CHANNEL/MICHIGAN Regional VP/Programming DOM THEODORE has announced the arrival of "BIG BOY" as the new night show on WKQI (CHANNEL 955)/DETROIT effective immediately. BIG BOY, which seems like a nom de aire, is inbound from FLINN Top 40 WHBQ/MEMPHIS, where he did nights. (Mon 2/6)

'JR to broadcast from Chicago Auto Show

Morning host Paul W. Smith will broadcast his 6-9 AM morning show
live from the 2006 Chicago Auto Show at the McCormick Place.

Detroit Free Press:

Detroit radio stations news-talk WJR-AM (760), we-play-everything WDRQ-FM (93.1) and modern hits WDVD-FM (96.3) will move from the Disney Co.'s ABC Radio Network to a renamed Citadel Communications in a $2.7-billion deal long rumored and finally announced Monday. Citadel already owns 17 stations in Saginaw, Flint, Lansing and Grand Rapids. All three stations are expected to continue with their current formats -- WJR was tied for the top spot among listeners age 12 and over and will become the flagship for Michigan State University sports starting this fall -- as the deal is finalized. Officials from the Detroit stations and air personalities declined to comment; corporate executives were unavailable Monday... Citadel to get 3 ABC radio stations (Tue 2/7)

To be honored: Five Michigan TV veterans at the Michigan Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 19th Annual Silver Circle Awards Luncheon, set for noon Feb. 26 at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. Those to be feted are: Frank Biondo, a 35-year veteran sound mixer for WTVS-TV (Channel 56); Steve Garagiola, WDIV-TV (Channel 4) anchor and reporter; James Gaver, program director at WFUM-TV in Flint; Lee Van Ameyde, co-news anchor at WZZM-TV in Grand Rapids and Fran Victor, one of the creators of "Good Afternoon Detroit" on WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) back in the 1980s... Names and Faces (Fri 2/10)

Detroit News:

"ABC World News Tonight" anchor Bob Woodruff, who grew up in Bloomfield Township, is still sedated but is making progress from injuries he suffered from a bomb attack while covering the Iraq war last month. Woodruff, 44, and his cameraman, Doug Vogt, 46, were wounded Jan. 29 when a roadside bomb exploded near the vehicle they were traveling in near Taji, 12 miles north of Baghdad. Woodruff suffered injuries to his upper body, face, neck and shoulder... News anchor Bob Woodruff continues healing (Wed 2/7)

The long-awaited ownership change for ABC/Disney's 22 top-drawer radio stations, including Detroit's WJR-AM (760), went through earlier this week, pending FCC approval of course, as current owner ABC/Disney merged with Citadel Broadcasting to form a new company, Citadel Communications . It's a complicated deal involving stock and cash, and, to confuse you even further, essentially the company is still majority-owned by Disney shareholders. Many of the stations involved are flamethrower, historic AM stations such as WJR, including WLS-AM Chicago, WABC-AM New York and KGO-AM San Francisco. Locally, WDVD-FM (96.3) and Doug FM, WDRQ-FM (93.1), are also part of the deal... New co-owners for Great Voice of the Great Lakes (Thu 2/9)

Torino, Italy, is approximately 4,200 miles from Detroit, but WDIV-TV (Local 4) is doing its best to bring the Olympics home. Local 4 begins its coverage of the Winter Games today with live broadcasts throughout the day from Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit. The coverage begins early with Local 4 News Today (5-7 a.m.). Guy Gordon and traffic reporter Beth McLeod will be joined by three-time Olympic figure skater Todd Eldredge and members of the Detroit Skating Club. The station also will broadcast its noon and evening broadcasts from Campus Martius, site of last weekend's Motown Winter Blast. Local 4 will continue to broadcast many of its Olympic Zone specials (Monday-Saturday, 7:30-8 p.m.) from Campus Martius through Feb. 26... From Campus Martius, Local 4 will enhance Olympic coverage (Fri 2/10)

The Uncommon Sense:

Last year, an institution that was part of the Flint area for eighty-three years, broadened its reach and shifted its target audience toward Detroit. Flint's first radio station, WFDF, now better known as Radio Disney broadcasting on the AM dial at 910 kHz, moved its transmitting facilities from its long time Burton location at the corner of Bristol and Howe, to newer larger transmitting facilities near Carleton in Monroe County, southwest of Detroit. While the station has applied to change its city of license from Flint to the Detroit suburb of Farmington Hills, the legal station ID at the top of the hour is still “WFDF, Flint/Detroit”... Goodbye, WFDF (Feb 2006)

All Access:

Rover's Screener Draws FBI Scrutiny: The FBI was called out when CBS syndicated morning man ROVER's phone screener DJ JAZZY JIM said he wouldn't be going to DETROIT for the SUPER BOWL with the rest of the show's crew because he was afraid of a terrorist attack. The comment caught the ear of the FBI's SUPER BOWL operations team, which sent agents to ROVER's WCKG/CHICAGO studio to talk to JIM. After a 90 minute interrogationm, the agents concluded that JIM had no actual knowledge of any attack; nevertheless, JIM did not goto DETROIT for the game.

WYCD Raises $802,812 for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Detroit's 99.5 WYCD ended a two-day Radiothon this weekend by raising $802,812 for cancer research for the ALSAC St. Jude's Children's Hospital. The two-day Radiothon was hosted live at Metro Detroit's Oakland Mall and featured live memorable segments with Clint Black and Hal Ketchum, as well as a WYCD auction featuring Gretchen Wilson and Kenny Chesney autographed guitars and a “living room concert” with Josh Turner. “I'm absolutely thrilled with the WYCD listeners response”, said WYCD Program Director Tim Roberts. “You can see how much people in Detroit truly care, when they pour out their hearts for children like they have in the last few days”. “We really began this year's event very strong with the All New Dr. Don Show and finished even stronger with Edwards and Lee in the afternoon and the whole WYCD team in the final two hours including Mike Scott and Jyl Forsyth” added Roberts.

This year's WYCD event also featured a unique side event with Clint Black called the Clint Black Tie Affair at the Melting Pot in Troy. “WYCD teamed with a national St. Jude restaurant sponsor The Melting Pot in Troy for a $100 per plate exclusive dining and concert experience. Clint Black was extremely generous with his time and gave his Detroit fans a special, intimate acoustic performance. “It was an awesome and inspiring event”, stated ALSAC St. Jude Detroit Rep Beth Campbell. “WYCD's air staff really reached a new level with this year's St. Jude Radiothon, raising $300,000 more than the previous year.”

Detroit Free Press:

A former country radio DJ who won a $10.6-million jury verdict last year in a lawsuit resulting from alleged job discrimination and a perfume allergy, only to see it reduced to $814,000 in December by the trial judge, got some of the judgment restored Tuesday. At the behest of Erin Weber's lawyer, U.S. District Judge George Steeh increased damages to $1.2 million and awarded Weber $423,807 for attorney fees and court costs. She has 14 days to accept the award, or Steeh will grant Infinity Broadcasting Corp.'s request for a new trial... Judge adds to cash for ex-DJ in perfume suit (Wed 2/8)

Friday was the last day on WWJ-AM (950) for ex-TV newscaster, media producer and Free Press columnist Mort Crim. He recently changed broadcast syndicators. Crim noted in an e-mail that CBS-owned WWJ was unable to carry his daily newscast and a couple of other products in addition to his "Second Thoughts" commentaries. He's hopeful of finding another Detroit carrier... Mort Crim does WWJ swan song (Sat 2/11)

Airing: From 5 a.m. Friday through noon Saturday, the 3rd Annual Winter Survival Radiothon on WWJ-AM (950) from the new downtown YMCA at 1401 Broadway. Organizers hope to raise more than $500,000 to help needy people pay energy bills. Details at www.thawfund.org. Names and Faces (Mon 2/13)

WDET welcomes back volunteers for Spring Fundraiser

WDET-FM 101.9, Detroit Public Radio, is inviting volunteers to help answer phones for the station's upcoming spring pledge drive. WDET had long depended on volunteers during pledge drive periods until the fall of 2004, when a switch was made to have phone calls answered by a professional answering service. WDET's new general manager feels strongly about the role of volunteers in pubic broadcasting. "Volunteers infuse a unique energy into pledge drives and other station activities that, frankly, we've missed over the last 18 months at Detroit Public Radio," says WDET General Manager Michael Coleman. "We're looking forward to welcoming back many old friends and meeting lots of new ones during this spring's membership drive."

WDET's on-air portion of the spring pledge drive takes place Friday,
March 31 through Thursday, April 13. Individuals and groups who are
interested in volunteering can get more information and sign up by
calling 313-577-4550 or going to the station's website at wdetfm.org.

Crain's Detroit Business

Local television advertisers are re-evaluating their purchasing decisions in the wake of early results from “people meters,” a new digital rating system rolled out in the Detroit market on Jan. 5 by Nielsen Media Research. Niche channels or networks like ESPN2 and Bravo were the winners in the sweeps period that ended Feb. 1. Traditional broadcast channels saw combined ratings declines of 15 percent or more in many time slots and across many demographics — though they still have the most viewers... Meters a new yardstick (Mon 2/13)

Good deeds don't go unnoticed, especially if you're Gov. Jennifer Granholm and it's an election year. Granholm is appearing in radio ads for DTE Energy Co. and Consumers Energy Co., as part of an effort to raise awareness of assistance available to utility customers struggling with high heating bills ... So, is there someone secretly living in the WJR suite of offices high up in the golden tower of the Fisher Building? Arbitron Ratings seems to think so. A letter addressed to “Resident,” at WJR's address recently ended up on president and general manager Michael Fezzey's desk... Utilities: Using Granholm in ads not political (Mon 2/13)

All Access:

Salem-Yinger Detroit-Cincy Swap Closes: The swap/sale that gives SALEM a second DETROIT AM has closed, with SALEM getting Religion WLQV-A/DETROIT from JON YINGER's CHRISTIAN BROADCASTING SYSTEM in exchange for Religion WTSJ-A and Talk WBOB-A/CINCINNATI plus $6.7 million. WBOB has been leased to DUSTY RHODES and BRIAN KAUFFMAN and is now airing an Oldies format as WDJO; YINGER has applied for new WCVX calls for WTSJ. JOHN PIERCE served as exclusive broker on both the sale and WBOB lease. (Mon 2/13)

Ann Arbor News:

Ann Arbor area Comcast cable viewers may have noticed that Channel 22, which carries programming from the University of Michigan, has a new look and name. The Michigan Channel, which debuted Jan. 30, builds on its predecessors, Michigan TV2 and UMTV, offering expanded coverage of events occurring on campus and adding new programming from national research universities. The channel will air the most current U-M fare in prime time, and recent "best of" material during the afternoon. Michigan Channel adds expanded coverage of U-M events, programs (Sun 2/12)

Radio & Records:

In September 2005 Salem agreed to trade WBOB-AM & WTSJ-AM/Cincinnati and pay $6.7 million for Christian Broadcasting System's Christian Talk & Teaching WLQV/Detroit. The deal has now closed, and as a result Salem gains a second AM in Detroit; it already owns WDTK in the market... Salem Closes On Detroit AM (Mon 2/13)

2005 Broadcast Excellence Award Winners Announced

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters has announced the winners of the 2005 MAB Broadcast Excellence Awards. For the list, please click here.

Detroit Free Press:

Sometimes change is subtle -- like last spring, when Jerod Swallow, ice dance director at the Detroit Skating Club, noticed two fresh faces suddenly appearing on the folders of his students' training logs. "For years, kids always collected pictures of skaters like Michelle Kwan and Sasha Cohen," Swallow said. "But after the world championships last spring, Tanith and Ben were being pasted right next to them." Sometimes change is drastic... TORINO 2006: Sizzling Canton skaters dance into world's heart (Fri 2/17)

Detroit News:

If you're one of the few, the brave, the techno-geeky, and you own a high-definition radio, you know what that means. You may be in the forefront of the latest radio technology, but it's like having a crystal set in the early days of the 20th century. Your co-workers persist in thinking you're talking about satellite radio, you spin the dial desperately seeking HD-2 stations, and there are the inevitable little glitches of first-generation technology. One issue some listeners are having with the Boston Acoustics HD Receptor radio is that if they live in a distant suburb, it's sometimes harder to tune in to the Detroit stations than with a cheap old (analog) radio... Although HD is the latest in technology, there are a few hiccups (Thu 2/16)

All Access:

Til Levesque Named CC/Detroit Market Manager: Following CLEAR CHANNEL RVP/MICHIGAN DAVE PUGH's transition to WASHINGTON D.C. as that region's RVP (see NET NEWS 2/2), word has come down that CLEAR CHANNEL/DETROIT Dir./Sales TIL LEVESQUE has been tapped as Market Manager of the MOTOR CITY cluster, which includes Classic Rock WDTW, Sports WDFN-A, Talk WDTW-A, Urban AC WMXD, Urban WJLB, Top 40 WKQI, and AC WNIC. (Wed 2/15)

Flint Journal

Two veteran Flint broadcasters will be honored in separate ceremonies in the coming weeks. Les Root, a 50-year radio newsman known for his straightforward style, will be inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame on April 22 in East Lansing. Jim Gaver, program director for WFUM (Channel 28) since its inception in 1980, has been chosen for the Michigan chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences' Silver Circle Award. He'll get it in a ceremony on Feb. 26 in Birmingham... Local broadcasters to receive statewide honors (Wed 2/15)

Dave Barber has battled mayors, weathered legal storms, feuded with his bosses and railed against anyone with whom he didn't agree. Come March 13, he will take on Providence, R.I. The colorful talk show host was expected this morning to announce his move to Providence's WPRO-AM on his WWCK-AM (1570) radio show... Dave Barber putting his mouth where opportunity is: Providence, R.I. (Fri 2/18)

WDTW-FM sponsors Movie Marathon

Rock WDTW-FM 106.7 The Drive along with The Rainbow Connection and Emagine Theatres in Canton, 39535 Ford Road in Canton, will present the Movies for Wishes 2006 Movie Marathon beginning at 10 AM on Friday February 24th. The event will help generate money for The Rainbow Connection to help grant wishes of terminally ill children in the Detroit area. The Movies for Wishes Marathon 2006 will run for 24 straight hours.

Listeners can help raise money by gathering pledges for The Rainbow Connection and join 106.7 The Drive for 24 hours of the latest movie releases, unlimited popcorn and pop, dinner on Friday, breakfast on Saturday and a chance to win prizes for the most pledges collected. For details on how to participate, call The Rainbow Connection at (248) 601-9474, ext. 11. The station is asking for you to help them help some very special kids.

Detroit Free Press:

On deck: From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, live from Oakland Mall, the 19th Annual WOMC-FM (104.3) Dick Purtan Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Program. Donations can be made at www.womc.com or by calling 248-307-1043 during the show. Donors who pledge $120 per year ($10 per month) become members of the Bed and Bread Club... Names and Faces (Mon 2/20)

Flint Journal:

Coming soon to a TV near you: another blue screen. ABC affiliate WJRT (Channel 12) has received federal approval to block most duplicate programming from WXYZ (Channel 7), Detroit's ABC station, on the Comcast and Charter Communications cable systems in Genesee County. The maneuver is known as a nonduplication agreement. It blocks network shows carried on WXYZ, such as "Lost" and "Desperate Housewives," leaving subscribers with only one option for ABC programs - WJRT. It does not affect local shows, including newscasts, and most syndicated programming carried by the Detroit station... Channel 12 forcing cable systems to block WXYZ (Sat 2/18)

WJR goes boating

WJR-AM 760 morning host Paul W. Smith broadcasts his morning program live tomorrow 6-9 AM (Tuesday 2/21) from the 48th Annual Detroit Boat Show at the Cobo Conference/Exhibition Center. Spring is coming!

Detroit Public TV to produce the 9th Annual Sphinx Competition Finals Concert in HDTV

For the first time, the inspiring sights and sounds of the February 11th Sphinx Competition Finals Concert are being produced by Detroit Public Television in high definition widescreen television for a broadcast special scheduled to air on at 10 p.m. February 27th on WTVS Channel 56 and HD digital channel 56.1. The nationally-acclaimed competition for young African American and Latino classical music string players culminated in The Finals Concert at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit, where the top three finalists of the Senior Division competed, accompanied by the Sphinx Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Chelsea Tipton II.

The 9th Annual Sphinx Competition Finals Concert, a one-hour broadcast special, features six times greater picture clarity than an analog production, along with brilliant sound. “Viewers will be able to see and hear the entire orchestra more clearly,” said Jeff Forster, Detroit Public TV vice president of production. “We used eight cameras, including one in the orchestra and one suspended above the audience. The microphone placement was superb.”

In addition to the first-ever HD broadcast of the Sphinx Finals Concert, the program is also scheduled to air on February 26 at noon on 90.9 WRCJ-FM, a listener supported classical and jazz radio station operated by Detroit Public Television and licensed to Detroit Public Schools.

WMXD to present a 'red carpet screening for new Steve Harvey movie

Adult Urban WMXD-FM, Mix 92.3, along with the “King of Comedy”, morning show host Steve Harvey, will present a red carpet premiere screening of Steve Harvey's newest film project, Don't Trip He Ain't Through With Me Yet! The station is inviting the city of Detroit to laugh, dress up, and attend a premiere screening that is sure to leave you refreshed as well as thrilled. In his first live performance since The Original Kings of Comedy, he is cleaning up his act for church folk. This once in a lifetime performance was recorded at the Mega Fest Conference, hosted by Bishop T.D. Jakes, in Atlanta, Georgia and is designed with the Christian audience in mind.

Harvey will open up his new movie to the Detroit metro area “Hollywood style” starting at 6:30pm on Tuesday, March 14, 2006, at AMC Star Southfield 20 Theater (formerly Star Theatre Southfield). It's an evening of glamour and glitz, lights, camera and action. You can expect a crowd of listeners, VIP guests, and more.

Over 700 guests will have an opportunity to see the movie prior to its release on Friday, March 17th. The movie screening is free; however, listeners must tune into Mix 92.3 to win passes for this exclusive advance movie screening or visit any of its sponsor locations to pick up movie passes. For more information, visit www.mix923fm.com or www.steveharvey.com.

Detroit News:

The funniest thing happened when U.S. Olympic ice dancers and Canton Township residents Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto finished their skate during Sunday's competition. The pair was sitting on a bench waiting for their marks when Belbin looked into the camera and said, "Hi, Drew and Mike! Hi, Grandma!" Apparently Belbin and Agosto are huge fans of "Drew & Mike," WRIF-FM's (101.1) top-rated morning show and have been listening to podcasts of the show in Torino. Last week, Belbin sent an e-mail out of the blue to say hi to the radio jocks. It's now turned into a full-fledged pen-pal situation, culminating in Belbin, giving an Olympic shout-out to the pair on live international TV... Olympic duo stun 'Drew & Mike' (Tue 2/21)

What is the most overplayed song on the radio right now? I'd put my vote in for "Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac. Think about it, this song gets airplay across several formats; classic rock, adult contemporary and oldies. If it wasn't bad enough that oldies stations like WOMC-FM (104.3) have moved away from the early '60s and more deeply in to the '70s (forget the '50s, that decade doesn't exist on nonsatellite radio), now stations like Windsor's CKWW-AM (580) that used to play big band/pop standards, have dumped a lot of the older music in favor of hitmakers from the '70s like Fleetwood Mac and John Denver... Songs from '70s, '80s are new oldies (Thu 2/23)

Detroit Free Press:

Fox TV unveiled My Network TV on Wednesday. It's a new programming service for stations being orphaned in September by not being able to align with the new CW after the UPN and the WB networks go away. Most likely Detroit landing place? WDWB-TV (Channel 20). "It's one of the options," Channel 20 chief Sarah Norat-Phillips said Wednesday... Names and Faces (Thu 2/23)

Notes from WDET-FM

* WDET Introduces New Weekly Cultural Spotlight: The new feature has been will air every Friday during Morning Edition at 6:50am and 9:50am. Celeste Headlee, WDET's arts and culture reporter, will produce the feature for each Friday's broadcast. Listeners can expect to hear information and interviews about important cultural events taking place in metropolitan Detroit each week. As a companion to the on-air feature, a more detailed list of area events will be available on the WDET website at wdetfm.org. "Adding this new feature to one of our most popular programs gives us a greater opportunity to serve the community," said Allen Mazurek, WDET program director. "We're glad to be able to showcase the wealth of important cultural events going on in Detroit."

This new weekly feature is the first installment of WDET's commitment to expand local arts and culture coverage. Beginning in April, WDET will begin airing a one-hour weekly cultural affairs program hosted by Celeste Headlee that will focus on events and issues and feature interviews, discussions and perspectives with area cultural leaders and organizations. It will be paired with another one-hour weekly live music and performance program produced by Jon Moshier, host of "in sound," that will feature performances by local, national and international artists. Cultural organizations are encouraged to submit information about their events to the WDET via email at event@wdetfm.org.

* WDET'S Klinefelter and Headlee recognized by Michigan Association of Broadcasters: WDET has announced that two staff reporters have been honored by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB). Quinn Klinefelter won the MAB's "Best Feature" award for "Danica" - a profile of celebrated female Indy Car driver Danica Patrick. Celeste Headlee received a MAB merit award in the "Series" category for her piece, "People Mover" - a five-part series examining the public art at each of Detroit's People Mover stations.

Headlee was also selected as one of this year's recipients of the USC Annenberg/Getty Arts Jounalism Fellowship Program. Only six journalists from around the world are selected, and WDET's Celeste Headlee is the only broadcast journalist named in this year's group. Funded by a grant from the J. Paul Getty Trust, the USC Annenberg/Getty Arts Fellowship, now in its fifth year, seeks to establish a new standard of excellence in arts and culture coverage. The program's philosophy is guided by a core belief in first-hand encounters with artists, arts administrators and journalism colleagues.

"These are great honors for both the reporters and our entire news department," said Joan Silvi, WDET News Director. "It fortifies our commitment to work hard and serve the Detroit community with the best possible local news coverage."

All Access:

Bon Jovi Grand Prize Winner Selected: BON JOVI, in association with AEG LIVE, XM SATELLITE RADIO, and WDVD/DETROIT, MI today announced the JODY RAFFOUL BAND as the winner of BON JOVI'S "HAVE A NICE GIG" competition. The DETROIT band was selected by JON BON JOVI and RICHIE SAMBORA as the Grand Prize Winners for a demo deal and opening slot for BON JOVI's GIANTS STADIUM concert this summer.

Ann Arbor News:

If you're looking for a typical morning radio show that's heavy with jokes, lame banter and the same old pop tunes played over and over again, then don't look to Martin Bandyke, the new morning host on Ann Arbor radio station 107.1 FM. He's just not that kind of guy. On Bandyke's program, you'd have a better chance hearing music from acts such as Richard Thompson, Ray Davies, Neil Young, Sarah Harmer and Duncan Sheik than the latest from Britney Spears. "We will do our utmost not to insult the intelligence of our listeners, and fight inanity on the air,'' Bandyke vowed recently, after his first week on the job... Fighting on-air inanity (Mon 2/27)

Grammy winner Bolcom to be featured on WQKL Ann Arbor

Adult Alternative WQKL-FM 107.1 Ann Arbor morning host Martin Bandyke will interview Ann Arbor and University of Michigan composer William Bolcom next Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 8am. Bolcom will be speaking about the four Grammy Awards he recently won for the recording of his epic composition "Songs of Innocence and of Experience," released on the Naxos label. The Martin Bandyke Morning Program is heard weekdays from 6-10am on Ann Arbor's 107one.

Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon raises $1,808,440 in 16 hours for Salvation Army Bed & Bread Program

OLDIES 104.3 WOMC and The Salvation Army in metro Detroit joined forces again this year setting another one-day, national radio fundraising record as WOMC listeners and sponsors helped raise $1,808,440 in 16 hours to feed and shelter Detroit's homeless and hungry. Last year's total was $1,723,088.

The 19th Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon was broadcast live on Friday, February 24, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Oakland Mall in Troy, Michigan. Donations benefited The Salvation Army Bed and Bread Program which provides hot meals, shelter and counseling to the homeless, hungry and destitute in Detroit. An average of 7,000 meals are served each day to those in need via the Bed & Bread trucks which make stops in metro Detroit's most depressed areas. In addition, 1,700 men, women and children receive shelter every night.

“This community never ceases to amaze me,” says Purtan. “To think that after answering the call to help support victims of Katrina, that the people of metro Detroit would donate in record numbers and surpass last year's Radiothon total is simply overwhelming. We can all feel a tremendous amount of satisfaction knowing that the money raised will help thousands of needy people not just today, but every single day of for the next year. It's a true testament to the caring spirit of the people of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan.”

This all-day event included Dick Purtan and Purtan's People interviewing celebrities, sports figures, comedians, political and business leaders, and metro area children who organized creative ways to collect money on behalf of their classrooms or schools.

“WOMC is proud of our longstanding relationship with The Salvation Army and feel privileged to be able to make a difference in the city of Detroit,” says Kevin Murphy, WOMC Senior Vice President/General Manager. “We know that our success is solely based on the incredible support we receive from our loyal listeners and valued clients to whom we are eternally grateful.”

Since 1988, the Dick Purtan Radiothon has raised more than $12,031,528 million for the Bed and Bread Program, including this year's record total of over $1.8 million.

Riff2 celebrates The Metro Times Blowout with a “Blowout” weekend

In honor of this weekend's “Metro Times Blowout,” Hamtramck's huge local music festival, WRIF's HD channel, Riff 2, will play music from Blowout Artists all weekend long. The “Blowout Weekend” will begin Friday, March 3rd at 8:00 a.m. and continue all weekend through Sunday night. RIFF2 will feature music from local favorites like: Broadzilla, The Hard Lessons, The Sights, Paper Street Saints, Grande Nationals, Gore Gore Girls and more.

“With Hamtramck being the musical epicenter for the weekend, we figured we should showcase some of the great local talent that Detroit has to offer,” said RIFF2's Mark Pennington. “The RIFF2 staff is loading up on Paczkis in celebration of this event.”

101 WRIF debuted RIFF2, a special HD Radio side channel, at the end of July 2005 with the unveiling of the HD radio broadcast. Both stations transmit a digital signal that provides CD quality sound and has the ability to display more text information than a traditional radio. Fans can listen to RIFF2 through special HD radio receivers available in tabletop and auto receiver models now or by simply logging on to www.riff2.com.

RIFF 2 is already making its mark with a special “made in Detroit" mix of alternative and indie rock, hip hop, punk and the best from today's Detroit music scene. By embracing local and unsigned bands RIFF2 breaks the rules of traditional radio and offers a true alternative music choice. WRIF2 is a new execution of the WRIF tradition that the next generation of Detroit music lovers can grow up with and will look to for “their” music.

Ann Arbor News:

The University of Michigan Department of Public Safety confirmed Thursday that an investigation into operations at the university's public radio and television service is under way. DPS spokeswoman Diane Brown said she could not disclose the nature of the investigation or what role it might have played in the resignation Wednesday of the director of Michigan Public Media, the umbrella organization that covers WUOM, 91.7, affiliated radio stations in Flint and Grand Rapids, Michigan Television and the Michigan Channel, which carries U-M programming on the local cable system. "DPS is conducting a criminal investigation into the operations at the radio station, but I can't comment any further at this time," Brown said... WUOM facing criminal probe (Fri 3/3)

The free-speech rights of controversial Ann Arbor radio personality Thayrone were violated when he was fired in April 2003 by WEMU, a state Court of Appeals panel has ruled. "The Bone Conduction Music Show'' - which aired on WEMU (89.1 FM), the public radio station at Eastern Michigan University, for 17 years - left the station under disputed circumstances. Thayrone, whose legal name is Theron Ethan Hughes III, said the program was canceled because he voiced support for President Bush and the war in Iraq on his show. The station said the show was axed due to Hughes' refusal to run National Public Radio news updates. The 15-page decision, dated Feb. 28 and including excerpts from the broadcast in question, came on a 2-1 vote by a panel of the Michigan Court of Appeals. Judges David H. Sawyer and Stephen J. Borrello wrote that WEMU violated Hughes' rights because existing laws clearly establish "that a public employer could not terminate an employee based on the employee's exercise of his First Amendment right to speak regarding matters of public concern"... Thayrone's rights violated, court says (Thu 3/2)

Donovan Reynolds, coordinator of the University of Michigan's public radio and television services, has resigned effective Wednesday. Reynolds was director of Michigan Public Media, the umbrella organization that covers WUOM, 91.7-FM; affiliated radio stations in Flint and Grand Rapids; Michigan Television, the public-TV channel that broadcasts as WFUM from Flint; and the Michigan Channel, which carries U-M programming on the local Comcast cable system. The news was confirmed by Julie Peterson, U-M spokeswoman, who offered no explanation for his departure. Reynolds did not respond to messages left on his home answering machine Wednesday... Public radio's Reynolds quits (Thu 3/2)

WRIF presents “Riff Rock Girl” search

The “WRIF Rock Girl” search officially commences Saturday, March 4th at 3pm as hopeful candidates will converge at Gameworks inside Great Lakes Crossing. WRIF on-air personalities Doug Podell, Scott Randall and Anne Carlini will personally interview the women to find out why they consider themselves to be a good candidate for The WRIF Rock Girl. Those interested in participating must attend one of the casting calls to be considered. Bring a photo and bio / resume.

Tomorrow's is the first in a series of three casting calls. The others will be held at Andiamo / Second City in Novi on March 13 from 6p-10p and Oakland Mall on March 18 from 10a-2p. After the three casting calls, 32 women will be selected to go on to the semifinals where WRIF listeners will vote for their favorite contestants online at www.wrif.com. At the end of the contest, one lucky woman will have the opportunity to represent WRIF for one year. As the WRIF ambassador, she'll attend concerts, VIP parties and events. She'll also receive a $30,000 salary, an ad in Stuff Magazine, a 1-year lease on a new car and she'll star in a WRIF commercial. The contest is open to Michigan residents 21 years of age and older- for official contest rules log on to www.wrif.com.

TheAutoChannel.com

The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) and News/Talk 760 WJR have teamed up to develop a new radio program that celebrates the auto industry and the individuals working to keep it successful. The one hour show, named "In the Driver's Seat," will be heard at 6 p.m. Sundays beginning March 5, 2006. The announcement was made today by WJR President & General Manager Mike Fezzey. Each show will feature three segments: automotive retailing/auto dealer community; manufacturers and Tier One suppliers; and auto shows and events. Hosted by industry veterans Rod Alberts and Joe Rohatynski, the first show will be recorded and produced today at the 76th Annual Geneva Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland... News/Talk 760 WJR Launches Weekly Auto Industry Radio Talk Show (Thu 3/2)

Detroit Free Press:

"Fred Thompson ... goooooooood day!" That's the way it's looking at ABC Radio. The network -- WJR-AM (760) is the Detroit purveyor -- has signed the actor and former U.S. senator as special program host and senior analyst. The Republican from Tennessee is perhaps best known for his role as District Attorney Arthur Branch on television's "Law & Order." He will be based at ABC Radio's Washington, D.C., bureau... Fred Thompson will back up Harvey (Tue 2/28)

Soft rocker WNIC ended up on top of the Detroit radio heap in Tuesday's Arbitrend ratings report for November, December and January. Why? The residual effect of playing all holiday music during November and December will last for another month in the drop-the-oldest-month counting practice... Echos of the holiday make WNIC No. 1, Arbitron radio ratings (Wed 3/1)

Here, by key time period, are Detroit results from Nielsen Media Research's February period, which ended Wednesday. It's one of four months when ratings are used to set ad rates... Nielsen February TV ratings (Fri 3/2)

Detroit News:

Like jilted lovers throwing each other's clothes out the window, CBS Radio (formerly Infinity) and Howard Stern have taken the gloves off and are openly brawling over his departure from free, "terrestrial" radio to Sirius Satellite Radio earlier this year. On Tuesday, CBS filed suit against Stern, his company One Twelve Inc., his agent Don Buchwald, his agent's firm and Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. for "multiple breaches of contract, misappropriation and unjust enrichment," in a 43-page complaint. CBS charges, among other things, that while under contract to CBS, Stern concealed the fact that he would benefit financially if certain Sirius subscriber targets were met, while he promoted the satellite company on the air... CBS sues Stern and company over Sirius deal (Wed 3/1)

Some readers have e-mailed that they're anxiously awaiting Bob Dylan's much-ballyhooed debut as a radio host on XM Satellite Radio . But they'll have to wait a bit longer now. The show is still happening, but instead of premiering in March, Dylan will now be making his radio debut presenting a weekly one-hour show on XM channel 40 starting in May ... The sad news of the Detroit church shootings on Sunday prompted Mildred Gaddis , host of "Inside Detroit" on WCHB-AM (1200), to raise $30,000 from her listeners on behalf of Victoria Davis , who was widowed when her husband, Alarie Davis, was shot and killed while trying to help his wife from being carjacked by a gunman... Bob Dylan postpones his debut on XM Satellite Radio to May (Thu 3/2)

Flint Journal:

I have joined the satellite radio revolution. This comes as no small surprise to my friends, who laugh at my refusal to own a cellphone. I didn't do it because of Howard Stern's jump to Sirius Satellite Radio in January, though the King of All Media's departure from old-fashioned analog, or terrestrial, radio after 20 years certainly gave satellite a boost... Sounds from the sky (Thu 3/2)

WDET introduces on-demand streaming of popular music programs

WDET-FM 101.9, Detroit Public Radio, has announced that on-demand streaming of its popular music programs is now available at its website, www.wdetfm.org. This new feature allows listeners to hear WDET's music programs at their convenience and means they never have to miss one of their favorite shows. The service archives all music programs from the previous seven days, which makes the previous five programs of weekday music hosts Ed Love and Liz Copeland available on-line in addition to the previous programs of weekend hosts like Matt Watroba, Larry McDaniel, Chuck Horn, Robert Jones, Ralph Valdez and others. WDET believed the benefits of this service to its listeners was well worth the financial investment in new technology necessary to make it a reality.

"We're extremely proud of the outstanding music programs produced at
WDET, and by making them available on-demand, more people will have the opportunity to hear them," said Allen Mazurek, WDET Program Director. "This new feature is another step in expanding our service to listeners."

Whether listeners want jazz during the day, electronica at lunchtime,
or bluegrass on a Monday morning, they can decide what to listen to at the time of their choice. All of WDET's music programs are now available on-demand along with WDET local news features and NPR news, at the station's website.

Detroit Free Press:

The University of Michigan is investigating the school's public radio and TV stations after the recent departure of two key staffers. U-M administrators and the campus police department said they have launched investigations of Michigan Public Media, the umbrella organization for Michigan Radio (operating as WUOM-FM, 91.7), Michigan Television, the Flint-based public TV channel broadcasting as WFUM-TV (Channel 28), and the Michigan Channel, a cable affiliate... U-M radio station probed (Sat 3/4)

At 1 p.m. today on Detroit's WKRK-FM (97.1), stock market tub-thumper and TV wildman Jim Cramer launches his new live weekday radio hour on CBS Radio talk affiliates nationwide. The goal? Threefold... Stock market guru to debut on WKRK (Mon 3/6)

All Access:

Brown Rises To Dir./Sales For CC/Ann Arbor: CLEAR CHANNEL/ANN ARBOR, MI GSM SHANNON BROWN has been upped to Dir./Sales for the cluster. "In the past two years, SHANNON has done a great job rebuilding our sales team and helping the team elevate to an even higher level of customer service," said GM BOB BOLAK.

Detroit Free Press:

The former director of the University of Michigan's public radio and TV stations said Monday he blew the whistle on suspicious business practices at the stations, spurring criminal and internal probes. Donovan Reynolds, who resigned Wednesday from his job as director of Michigan Public Media, said when he learned in November of "suspicious business practices," he reported it to U-M administrators and the U-M Department of Public Safety... Ex U-M stations chief calls practices suspicious (Tue 3/7)

DJ's book could be a film- Peter C. Cavanaugh, a big noise on the radio in Flint back in the rockin' late '60s and early '70s, wrote a book about his experiences called "Local DJ." PCC says he has signed film option rights to Kathleen Glynn and her new production company, Blue Lake Entertainment... Names and Faces (Wed 3/8)

Detroit News:

Steve Harvey, who presides over the WMXD-FM (92.3) morning show, is flying in to Detroit on Tuesday to appear at a red-carpet premiere of his new movie "Don't Trip, He Ain't Through With Me Yet ," a recording of a performance he did at the Mega Fest Conference in Atlanta, hosted by Bishop T.D. Jakes. The film is Harvey's first since "The Original Kings of Comedy," but, apparently, in his new movie, Harvey's cleaned up his act considerably for the church folk. The film, due for general release on Friday, starts at 6:30 p.m. at the AMC Star Southfield 20, with Detroit glitterati such as Anita Baker set to attend. Some 700 fans will get to see the film, but only through WMXD giveaways... Steve Harvey coming to town Tuesday (Thu 3/9)

WDET programming notes

This Sunday night, March 12 at 8pm on the W. Kim Heron Program, Detroit native Alex Harding performs live from WDET's Studio A. The quartet includes: bass clarinet, baritone saxophonist Alex Harding featuring bassist Marion Hayden, pianist Ken Cox, and drummer Billy Higgins. The performance is part of the Detroit Rebirth Radio Concert Series. The W. Kim Heron Program airs Sunday nights from 8pm to 10pm on WDET-FM 101.9 and at wdetfm.org.

Also Sunday, March 12, WDET's Ralph Valdez interviews film maker Rupert Murray who's controversial new documentary 'Unknown White Male' - about a friend struggling with amnesia - explores issues of identity, rebirth and memory. The second hour of The Ralph Valdez Program will spotlight local musicians taking part in the annual WDET Benefit at 313.Jac March 16-18 in support of WDET's Spring On-Air Fundraiser, which begins March 31. The Ralph Valdez Program airs Sunday evenings from 10pm to midnight.

Michigan Radio issues release to listeners addressing investigation

You may have heard news reports about Michigan Radio. The University of Michigan is conducting a full review of the radio station as a result of concerns raised by former Director of Broadcasting Donovan Reynolds in November of 2005. As a public radio station, we are committed to serve the community through our news and information service. Our mission is to act with the utmost integrity at all times. We are able to fulfill our public mission because of the engagement, the support, and the trust of our members and underwriters... A Letter To Our Listeners And Members (Wed 3/8)

Haege named to “Talkers 250” list

Glenn Haege, host of the nationally syndicated radio program “The Handyman Show with Glenn Haege” has been named to the “Talkers 250” list, the 250 most important radio talk show hosts in America, by Talkers Magazine. Haege is one of only three radio talk show hosts in the “Home Talk” category, which includes home maintenance, improvement, gardening and economics. This is Haege's ninth consecutive year being named on this prestigious list.

The list is compiled from over 5,000 radio talk show hosts across the country considered by the Talkers editorial board. When evaluating candidates, editors look at courage, effort, impact, longevity, potential, rating, recognition, revenue, service, talent and uniqueness. The list took on a new format this year, from the “Heavy Hundred” to “Talkers 250” to reflect the industry's expansion and to include more stations, participants, format genres and technological platforms.

“It is a great testament to the quality of our radio program, and listeners, to again be included on the list of the most important radio hosts in America. We must be doing something right by delivering ‘clear and concise, how-to advice' all across the country,” stated Haege.

Haege has more than 30 years experience in the home improvement industry and his radio show, “The Handyman Show with Glenn Haege” is nationally syndicated by Troy, Mich. based Handyman Productions, LLC, and can be heard on more than 160 radio stations nationwide. In addition, Haege is the author of 11 home improvement books and writes two columns each week for The Detroit News.

AllAccess.com:

Serch Exits WJLB/Detroit Morning Show: CLEAR CHANNEL Urban WJLB (FM98)/DETROIT morning show host SERCH, who was once part of the rap duo 3RD BASS, has exited. The other two players in the morning show, CO CO and FOOLISH will remain in place. (Fri 3/10)

Fox Sports Net Detroit to broadcast 112-game regular season Tigers' games

FSN's comprehensive coverage of the Detroit Tigers in 2006 is highlighted by a network-record 112 regular season telecasts, including at least one game from every series on the team's schedule. Regular season telecasts begin with the April 3 season opener at the Kansas City Royals. FSN Detroit also has the April 10 home opener against the defending World Champion Chicago White Sox. FSN provides the only regional television coverage of the Tigers at spring training, originating two Grapefruit League contests in Lakeland, FL: Thursday, March 16 vs. the New York Yankees and Monday, March 27 against the defending National League champion Houston Astros.

Mario Impemba returns for his fifth season as FSN Detroit's play-by-play announcer, joined for the fourth consecutive year by analyst Rod Allen. This marks the ninth year for Tigers telecasts on FSN Detroit, which earned a 2005 Michigan Emmy for “Best Sports Play by Play”. In addition to the road and home openers, here are other highlights of FSN Detroit's Tigers regular-season telecast schedule in 2006:

• At least one telecast from each of the 52 series on the Tigers schedule.
• 50 games against their Central Division counterparts – Chicago White Sox (15), Minnesota Twins (13), Cleveland Indians (12), Kansas City Royals (10).
• A total of 12 telecasts featuring the perennial powers of the AL East – New York Yankees (6), Boston Red Sox (6).
• A strong lineup of 15 inter-league contests including games against the Cincinnati Reds (3), Chicago Cubs (2), Milwaukee Brewers (2), St. Louis Cardinals (3), Houston Astros (2) and Pittsburgh Pirates (3).
• Holiday telecasts on Memorial Day, May 29 vs. New York Yankees and Independence Day, July 4 at Oakland Athletics.
• The Tigers final game of the season, Oct. 1 vs. Kansas City.

A one-hour Tigers Season Preview special premieres Saturday, April 1 at 6:00 PM. Most regular season telecasts are preceded by the 30-minue Tigers Pregame, hosted by John Keating. The Emmy-winning Tigers Weekly returns April 8 and airs most Saturdays throughout the season at 11:30 AM. The Tigers also are covered nightly on the Detroit Sports Report at 10:00 PM or immediately after the game. Following FSN Tigers telecasts, DSR goes into post-game show mode with highlights, analysis, manager Jim Leyland's media session and player reaction. And, FSN's profile series Spotlight will have episodes featuring Tigers personalities during the course of the season.

FSN Detroit's coverage of the Tigers goes to 3.2 million cable and satellite homes throughout Michigan and portions of Northwest Ohio and Northern Indiana.

Magic 105.1's first-ever bowling party is coming to Canton

WMGC-FM, Magic 105.1, has announced its “Magic Bowling Party” scheduled for Saturday, March 18th at Super Bowl Lanes in Canton. The event will be hosted by many of Magic's personalities- Cyndy Canty, Mitzi Miles and Linda Lanci will host the first bowling session that goes from 1-3pm. Jim Harper, Jim Paolucci, Mike Bradley and Fay Samona will host the second bowling session which lasts from 3-5pm.

Listeners can win a spot for themselves and three guests to attend one of the two bowling sessions taking place at the “Magic Bowling Party” by listening to WMGC or visiting the station's web site at detroitmagic.com. There will be door prizes and special contests, as well as food, soft drinks and fun for all.

Detroit Free Press:

Steve Harvey was a little nervous. The comic actor and radio show host had decided to come clean. Harvey was on the verge of making a significant change in his life, and even though he's a public figure, he didn't exactly want to do it in a public way. For two decades, he had been known for delivering foul-mouthed, hilarious dialogues on life, including many in the smash comedy concert film "The Original Kings of Comedy." But he was ready to switch gears, become closer to God and do away with his otherwise un-Christian-like devices. He decided he wanted to become a better man... Steve Harvey is the new Mr. Clean (Sun 3/12)

A pool table and Persian rugs given to a former salesman for the University of Michigan's public radio and television stations as performance bonuses last year are among the things U-M police and administrators are investigating in a criminal probe of the stations' fund-raising, a lawyer for the man said Sunday. Meals provided to staff members and a Christmas party at a local restaurant are also part of the probe, said Tom Moors, an attorney for Jeremy Nordquist, an account executive who sold airtime and was fired from Michigan Public Media in January. The meals and the merchandise were provided in exchange for announcements on the station, he said. Nordquist, who is appealing his firing, and his supervisor, Justin Ebright, development director for Michigan Radio, have both been questioned by police, according to their attorneys. Ebright left the station in November after eight years... U-M radio, TV subject of probe (Mon 3/13)

Detroit Free Press:

A new way to get your favorite radio stations has quietly been going on the air in Detroit. Not only does it feature crystal-clear quality -- FM stations sound like CDs, AM stations sound like FM -- but it also includes second channels featuring everything from local artists to deep tracks. And it's not satellite radio. It's free, high-definition radio, or HD radio. All you need to get it is a special receiver... Digital Life: HD the future of free radio (Tue 3/14)

WXYZ-TV news anchor Frank Turner is asking people to pray for divine intervention to sway Channel 7 to allow him to host a religious radio show on Christian WEXL-AM (1340). Turner bills himself as "America's First Evangelical Anchorman" on www.frankturner.org, a site devoted to his off-camera religious pursuits. There, he wrote that WEXL has reserved a weekday time slot of 10 a.m. to noon. "The only problem," he continued, "has been securing a letter of release from WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) acknowledging an exception to our contractual agreement that will allow our daily radio ministry to be broadcast... Turner asks help toward evangelism (Tue 3/14)

Getting their shot: Coco and Foolish, on Clear Channel's WJLB-FM (97.9) morning show. The station parted company with morning show main man MC Serch last week, and Coco and Foolish will get a tryout. Station officials said they couldn't discuss Serch's departure, but a source who requested anonymity said the departure was not a contract nonrenewal issue... Names and Faces (Tue 3/14)

The Federal Communications Commission proposed an indecency fine of $3.6 million against CBS, its owned and operated stations including Detroit's WWJ-TV (Channel 62) and affiliates Wednesday. At fault was a "Without a Trace" episode that aired in December 2004. It was cited because of graphic depiction of "teenage boys and girls participating in a sexual orgy." Also, the FCC rejected an appeal by CBS, and upheld its $550,000 fine against 20 of the network's stations for the Janet Jackson "wardrobe malfunction" at the Super Bowl two years ago... FCC proposes fine for CBS (Thu 3/16)

The sedate, urbane world of public broadcasting was rattled Thursday as prosecutors charged three former employees of Michigan Public Media with illegally accepting golf club memberships, Persian rugs, airline tickets and massages in exchange for on-air considerations at the state's top public radio station. Each of the men -- current WDET-FM general manager Michael Coleman, Jeremy Nordquist and Justin Ebright -- was charged by Washtenaw County prosecutors in Ann Arbor with embezzlement of under $20,000 while working at Michigan Public Media-controlled WUOM-FM (91.7). Each could face up to five years in prison if convicted... Scandal shakes public radio (Fri 3/17)

Michael Coleman, the embattled general manager of Detroit Public Radio, told the Free Press today that he didn't take food, alcohol, airline tickets and hotel rooms in exchange for on-air acknowledgements while he worked for the University of Michigan's public radio and television stations. Coleman was one of three former Michigan Public Media employees charged Thursday in Ann Arbor on one count of embezzlement under $20,000. He faces a maximum of five years in prison if convicted. He may also be required to pay a fine of $10,000 or three times the amount of the alleged embezzlement, according to court records... Detroit Public Radio's general manager says he's innocent (Fri 3/17)

Detroit News:

Turner wants jobs at WEXL and WXYZ: WXYZ-TV Channel 7 anchorman Frank Turner wants viewers and fans to pray that his employers will allow him to host a morning program on WEXL-AM (1340), a Christian station. The plea for prayer can be found on Turner's religious Web site, www.frankturner.org. On it, Turner says the only thing stopping him from spreading the ministry as "America's First Evangelical Anchorman" is a letter of release from WXYZ... Newsmakers (Tue 3/14)

The news had been percolating through channels for a week that veteran Detroit radio executive Steve Schram was being considered for Donovan Reynolds' job as director of Michigan Public Media at the University of Michigan. Finally on Wednesday, U-M made it official. Schram was named interim director effective immediately, replacing Reynolds, who departed March 1. His hiring brings stability as U-M tries to move past the recent dust-up over fundraising irregularities at WUOM-FM... Interim U-M media boss named (Thu 3/16)

A government crackdown on indecent programming resulted in a proposed fine of $3.6 million against dozens of CBS stations and affiliates on Wednesday -- a record penalty from the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC said an episode of the CBS crime drama "Without a Trace" that aired in December 2004 was indecent. It cited the graphic depiction of "teenage boys and girls participating in a sexual orgy." CBS said it strongly disagrees with the FCC's finding. The program "featured an important and socially relevant storyline warning parents to exercise greater supervision of their teenage children. The program was not unduly graphic or explicit," the network said in a statement... CBS fined $3.6M for alleged indecent programs (Thu 3/16)

The head of public radio in Detroit was charged with embezzlement Thursday, accused of accepting money, airline tickets and lodging while he worked as deputy director of a radio station owned and operated by the University of Michigan. Michael Coleman, general manager of Wayne State University's WDET-FM, was charged in 14A District Court in Ann Arbor with one felony count of embezzlement while at his former job at Michigan Public Media's WUOM-FM (91.7). He could face five years in prison, a fine of $10,000 or three times the amount embezzled, whichever is more... WDET chief faces embezzling charges (Fri 3/17)

You can believe this and take it to the bank: Steve Harvey is coming clean. Yes, the veteran standup comedian, one of the "Original Kings of Comedy," known for his uproarious blue jokes and hilarious takes on life, says he's strengthening his relationship with God, praying daily and reading his Bible. He's also working really hard to stop cursing in his comedy shticks. The 49-year-old, who's also a syndicated morning radio show host heard locally on WMXD-FM (Mix, 92.3), says the change came when he pondered these questions: "What does it profit a man to gain the whole word and lose his soul? What is it all about?... Harvey cleans up comedy routine (Fri 3/17)

Ann Arbor News:

The criminal investigation into University of Michigan public radio station WUOM involves the station's fundraising and whether employees improperly received gifts from businesses mentioned on air, said an attorney representing a former employee questioned by police. Dan Geherin, the attorney for Justin Ebright, the station's former development director, confirmed Monday that Ebright was recently interviewed by investigators with the University of Michigan Department of Public Safety... WUOM probe checks gifts, fundraising (Tue 3/14)

Just two weeks before a key fundraising drive, Michigan Radio officials are hoping to minimize the fallout from revelations Thursday that three former employees took gifts ranging from airline tickets to golf club memberships in exchange for on-air mention on the popular public radio station heard across the state. Officials at the University of Michigan-operated station said they will keep the public's support by relying on the service's reputation for quality programming and by a quick response to criminal charges that exposed glaring weaknesses in financial reporting and oversight... Ex-WUOM staffers charged (Fri 3/17)

The next step isn't yet clear following a recent state appeals court decision regarding the firing of outspoken WEMU radio personality Thayrone in 2003. The decision, announced earlier this month, overturned a June 2003 ruling by Washtenaw County Circuit Court Judge Timothy P. Connors, who had dismissed the DJ's lawsuit against the station. Now, Eastern Michigan University could appeal the reinstatement of the suit to the Michigan Supreme Court; however, the case will more likely return to Washtenaw County for further proceedings - likely a trial... WEMU weighing options in Thayrone case (Fri 3/17)

All Access:

PD Maguire Takes Afternoons At WTKA/Ann Arbor
CLEAR CHANNEL Sports WTKA-A/ANN ARBOR afternoon host DENNIS FITHIAN exits, and PD RYAN MAGUIRE is taking over the afternoon show 3-6p beginning MONDAY (3/20). 6-7p will feature a new show, "IN CASE YOU MISSED IT," a replay of the station's best interviews and guests from the rest of the day hosted by Exec. Producer JOSH VERNIER. MAGUIRE will continue to oversee programming and operations at WTKA and sister Talk WLBY-A. (Fri 3/17)

Michigan Boys Basketball Finals Saturday on FSN Detroit

FSN Detroit's coverage of Michigan high school championship events continues Saturday, March 25 with regional coverage of all four games in the 2006 MHSAA Boys Basketball Finals from the Breslin Center in East Lansing. This marks the ninth consecutive year the boys finals have aired on FSN Detroit. Play-by-play announcers are Fred McLeod (Class D & C) and John Keating (Class A & B). Game analysts are Greg Kelser (Class D & C) and Tim McCormick (Class A & B). Shireen Saski is the sideline reporter for all games.

Here is the lineup of the 2006 MHSAA Boys Basketball Finals on FSN Detroit. The participating teams are determined after semifinal action on Thursday and Friday, March 23-24:

MHSAA Boys Basketball Finals – Saturday, March 25
Class D: 10:00 AM, LIVE (Fred McLeod, Greg Kelser, Shireen Saski)
Class C: 12:00 PM, LIVE (McLeod, Kelser, Saski)
Class A: 4:00 PM, LIVE (John Keating, Tim McCormick, Saski)
Class B: 8:00 PM, LIVE (Keating, McCormick, Saski)
Following the Class B game, FSN presents a special edition of the Detroit Sports Report – DSR: Basketball Finals Recap, a 30-minute show comprising highlights, interviews and analysis from all four state championship contests.

Alexander Zonjic performs in concert fundraisers

No stranger to supporting good causes, jazz flutist Alexander Zonjic has been involved in a number of fundraisers over the years. Here are some upcoming events and recognition for service that Zonjic recently received:

Two great bands, Alexander Zonjic & Friends and saxophonist Warren Hill and his band, will perform for one great cause on Sunday, April 9 in a concert to benefit Smooth Jazz V98.7's Fund the Music program. The 7:30 p.m. show takes place at The Roostertail in Detroit. Tickets are $30 and available on-line at https://roostertail.com/tickets/. Fund the Music supports music education in select metro Detroit area schools. Studies show that there are many benefits to children learning music in schools. It enhances reading and math skills - not to mention building self-esteem, appreciation of music, building teamwork and more. Gently used musical instruments and donations are also being collected. Smooth Jazz V98.7 is working in conjunction with Communities In Schools (CIS), an organization that will assist in facilitating the program with the schools.

Alexander Zonjic has begun preparations for the tenth annual concert for the Windsor Downtown Mission. It will be held May 13 at the Capital Theatre in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, which is Alexander's hometown and current residence. The Windsor Downtown Mission feeds the homeless, offers them spiritual and moral support, provides health care, referrals, clothing and employment support.

Zonjic was recently named a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International-District 6400, which covers Southeastern Michigan and Southwestern Ontario. Zonjic was recognized for his work in performing and producing the Piper's Holiday Concerts held last December in Dearborn, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario to benefit the Children of the Dump in Nicaragua. The concerts raised a total of $35,000 for the Hope and Relief Fund which supports a Catholic mission in Chinandega, Nicaragua. The money helps families in need and several schools. Paul Harris was the founder of Rotary International. In attendance was Dearborn Mayor Michael Guido.

Alexander Zonjic performs in about 100 concerts a year and is the host of a popular weekday morning radio show on Smooth Jazz V98.7 WVMV. He is also artistic director of several music festivals and is part owner of the award-winning jazz supper club “Seldom Blues.” His current CD bears the same name as his restaurant and his second single “Sweat” is being heard nationwide.

Detroit Free Press:

More public radio furor for WDET-FM (101.9), which this week saw general manager Michael Coleman charged with embezzlement during his run at Ann Arbor's WUOM-FM (91.7). The band Los Lobos has expressed its desire through its manager not to honor the agreement it made with WDET to appear at a fund-raising performance in May. It's an apparent protest over WDET's daytime switch from music to talk... Los Lobos reneges on gig (Sat 3/18)

Detroit News:

In the annals of scandals, the current mess at WUOM-FM (91.7) -- the Ann Arbor public radio station -- is penny ante-gate. But in the hearts and minds of public radio listeners -- many of whom support the Ann Arbor station with pledges followed by real dollars -- the news is more shocking than Howard Stern's dirty jokes from the ozone. That's because public radio is a haven, an on-air retreat from mean-spirited tricks, loud rants, Top 40 music and the consciously un-civil. Outside of Canada, where else might you hear complete sentences spoken in English with implied punctuation, delivered in a tone of congenial refinement? In the world of public radio, rationality is strived for, if not always attained, and delivered -- here's the key part -- virtually free of mercenary concerns... Ann Arbor public radio scandal tests loyalty of sponsors (Sun 3/19)

After 6 years of battling Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Sabrina Black passed away last night at the home she and her husband, Steve shared in Clawson.

Sabrina, a former Detroit radio personality and the wife of WRIF's weekend jock, Steve Black, was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2000 and had undergone numerous chemotherapy and radiation treatments as well as two bone marrow transplants. Over the course of the last couple of weeks, Sabrina's condition worsened and she finally succumbed to the cancer last night, surrounded by her loving husband and her two cats. Sabrina was best known for her work as a sports update reporter at WDFN-AM 1130.

Steve Black commented, "It is with great sadness that I'm announcing the loss of my amazing wife Sabrina. Sabrina battled cancer for more than 6 years, but died at home in our bed at 9pm on Monday, March 20th. I'll admit that the last several days were difficult for her and she continued the fight to her last breath. I feel very lucky, of all the billions of people in the world, God choose me to love Sabrina and help her cross from this world to the next. We are both proud of what we accomplished as a couple, we had the chance over the last few weeks to look back and we did everything right. We had time to look through our photographs, talk and laugh before she became bed ridden. Her last four days were very difficult and she fought as hard as she possibly could. It is comforting to know that we did not waste one single day in our nine years together."

Sabrina's memorial service is open to the public this Saturday, March 25th between noon and 5pm at Gramer Funeral Home, located at 705 N. Main Street in Clawson.

Contributions can be still made to the Sabrina Black Fund to continue her fight, along with many others, against leukemia and lymphoma. The hope is that some day, the fund will be able to pay 100% of the medical bills of a cancer patient. To make a donation, send a check or money order payable to "The Sabrina Black Fund" to WDFN, Sabrina Black Fund, 27675 Halsted Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48331.

Detroit News:

Sabrina Black is gone, but her sunglasses are still on the table, and for now, they are enough for her husband to cling to. She died Monday night at home in Clawson, and when Steve Black woke up Tuesday, "I was so hesitant that this houseful of memories would be crippling." Instead, he saw the photos and trinkets and all the driftwood washed ashore in nine years together, "and everywhere I look, I find joy." It's only right, and only fair. Sabrina, 35, a former disc jockey and WDFN-AM (1130) sports reporter, fought Hodgkin's lymphoma with more spirit and more smiles for more years than even her husband thought possible... Sabrina Black's spirited battle (Wed 3/22)

Bloomfield Hills WBFH 88.1 scores numerous MAB awards

Bloomfield Hills School District radio broadcasting students won six first place awards, five second place awards and five third place awards from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB) at their annual conference held Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at the Lansing Center. The MAB received 527 entries from 34 schools for their annual High School and College Broadcast Awards competition. WBFH students won 16 of the 25 awards given out in the high school radio division, including first place in six of the eight categories.

Andover senior Ryan Fishman won three individual awards: 1st Place, Public Service Announcement; 1st Place, Promotional Announcement; 3rd Place (tie), Sportscast/Play by Play. Andover senior Erin Kashawlic won three awards: 1st Place, Sports Public Service Announcement; 2nd Place, Radio Air Check; 2nd Place, Public Service Announcement. Andover senior George Tunis won two awards: 2nd Place (tie), Sports Public Service Announcement; 2nd Place, Talk Show with Andover senior P.J. Wascher. Andover junior Wade Fink won two awards: 2nd Place Sportscast/Play by Play; 3rd Place, Promotional Announcement. Lahser senior Rachel Fishman won 1st Place, Newscast. Andover senior Jake Neher, Andover senior Nick Gallick, and Andover junior Kevin Qian won 1st Place, Talk Show. Lahser senior Valenta Bedford won 3rd Place (tie), Sports Public Service Announcement. Andover senior Lauren Edelman won 3rd Place, Public Service Announcement.

Six WBFH students won 1st Place in the Large Group category: Ryan Fishman, Rachel Fishman, Tunis, Kashawlic, Fink and Edelman. Four WBFH students won 3rd Place in the Large Group category: Neher, Qian, Wascher, and Andover senior Marco Myerson.

Due to the number of awards won by WBFH students, WBFH was named the 2006 MAB High School Station of the Year and received a gold record award from BMI. This was the fourth year in a row that WBFH won or tied for MAB Station of the Year. Station Manager Pete Bowers and Assistant Manager/Chief Engineer Randy Carr accepted the Station of the Year Award on behalf of their award-winning students.

WBFH Operations Manager Ryan Fishman was pleased with the performance of the Biff students this year compared to last year: "We won three more total awards and one more 1st Place this year which is impressive." Motivational speaker Ron Bachman gave the keynote address at the awards luncheon.WBFH, also known as The Biff, is a non-commercial, educational radio station broadcasting at 88.1 on the FM dial or online at www.wbfh.fm.

AM 580 Serves “The Blue Plate Special” as part of the Midday Café

CKWW-AM 580, Motor City Favorites, has announced a brand new feature airing weekdays at Noon called “The Blue Plate Special” The feature kicks off the Midday Café Show and will feature 5 songs- all with the same theme. Upcoming specials include “Elton John songs”, “Sunny Songs” and “4-Letter Words” (songs with four letters in the title!) just to name a few. Wayne Stevens presents “The Blue Plate Special” as part of the Midday Café, weekdays following the Noon news on AM 580, Motor City Favorites.

WMGC to host “Magic 80's Prom Dance Party” in April

Magic 105.1 (WMGC-FM) will hold its “80's Prom Dance Party” at Laurel Manor in Livonia on Saturday, April 22nd, 2006. It will be a memorable event, complete with fantastic hors d'oeuvres, plenty of dancing, a photo booth and live music from That 80's Band. To fully enhance the “Magic 80's Prom Dance Party” experience, there will be a Prom King and Queen, 80's Idol Contest and much more! The only way in is to win- Listeners cannot purchase tickets to this “bodacious” 80's event. The Magic 80's Prom Dance Party is sponsored by Walsh College, Empire Today, English Gardens, Laurel Manor and Magic 105.1FM.

Detroit News:

Lots of folks wrote at different times last year to squawk about Tigers games and their sabbatical leave from local "free" television, which had been Channel 50's province until contract talks fizzled early in 2005. They were assured -- it might have been my mistake -- that 2006 would see a return to normal. Channel 50 would, no doubt, be back in the Tigers telecast business. The Tigers, after all, had a duty to their non-cable audience to make at least 25 games a year available, especially when there were plenty of senior citizens on fixed incomes who depended on Channel 50 to sate their Detroit baseball appetites... Tigers dropped the ball -- no 'free' game telecasts (Tue 3/21)

Video may have killed the radio star, but AM and FM radio stations are not yielding to the satellite challenge without a fight. Even as Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio strive to convince consumers to pay for a service they have received for free since its inception, the nation's broadcast radio stations are rolling out new digital technology that delivers better audio quality, less interference and a host of new features. Twenty-three Detroit-area radio stations already offer the new technology, known as HD radio, and the industry is lobbying aggressively to get automakers to offer HD radios in their cars and trucks... HD radio in driver's seat (Wed 3/22)

Detroit Free Press:

Channel 20 gets a network: Granite Broadcasting's TV20 (now WDWB, but destined to change call letters in the fall with the demise of the WB Network) has been signed as a new MyNetworkTV affiliate debuting Sept. 5. MyNetworkTV will launch with new scripted primetime drama series... Names and Faces (Thu 3/23)

Ann Arbor News:

Thayrone is out, but the doctor - Dr. Laura, that is - is in at WAAM (1600 AM), Ann Arbor's talk radio station. The change was effective Monday. Besides axing "On the Edge," Thayrone's personality-driven afternoon talk show, the station has dropped his Sunday night "Bone Conduction Music Show" as well. The decision was made at the corporate level, said Bob Hamilton, a national radio consultant who said he is now the station's acting general manager. Stephen Ames, who had been station manager and vice president, was let go Tuesday... WAAM drops Thayrone from lineup (Wed 3/22)

WDET programming notes

BBC's "World Have Your Say" coming to Detroit March 30:
One of Public WDET-FM's 101.9 newest programs, the BBC's "World Have Your Say" will be coming to Detroit on Thursday, March 30 as part of an American tour. The program will be broadcasting from the famous Motown Museum on W. Grand Blvd. WDET's own Quinn Klinefelter, who regularly contributes to the BBC, will be a part of this special broadcast. Listeners who would like to be part of the studio audience and join in the conversation can get more information at the station's website at wdetfm.org. Other cities on the BBC's American tour next week include New Orleans, New York, Atlanta and Washington DC. The BBC's "World Have Your Say" airs weekdays from 1pm to 2pm on WDET 101.9FM and at wdetfm.org.

WDET News recognized by Michigan Associated Press with 7 awards, Detroit Public Radio Honored With General Excellence Award For 5th Straight Year-
The Michigan Associated Press has recognized WDET Detroit Public Radio as the best non-commercial radio station in Michigan with this year's "General Excellence" award in addition to six other recognitions. This is the fifth consecutive year that WDET has received the "General Excellence" award. The complete list of awards given to WDET by the Michigan AP is:

* General Excellence - WDET
* Best Newscast - Morning Edition 1/12/05 Craig Fahle.
* Best Spot News - WDIV Shooting - Quinn Klinefelter and Jerome Vaughn
* Best Hard News - Rosa Parks Funeral - Jerome Vaughn
* Best Feature - Barenaked Shakespeare - Celeste Headlee
* Best Sports Feature - All Star Work - Jerome Vaughn
* Honorable Mention Sports Feature - Danica - Quinn Klinefelter

"To be recognized by the Michigan Associated Press is a tremendous honor," said Joan Silvi, WDET News Director. "We're proud of the hard work and persistence of our entire news staff to provide in-depth coverage of Detroit area news and events to our community. We strive to do our very best each and every day, and these awards remind us how important our local news service is to our listeners."

Chicago Sun-Times

Kevin O'Neill, afternoon personality at WNIC-FM in Detroit, begins double duty Monday when he signs on as afternoon host at WLIT-FM (93.9), via recorded voice tracks. Both adult-contemporary stations are owned by Clear Channel Radio. At Lite FM, O'Neill succeeds Dave Hilton, who'll concentrate full time on his job as production director. O'Neill is the second host from WNIC to be added to Lite FM by Darren Davis, regional vice president of programming for Clear Channel Radio. Davis, who doubles as program director of Lite FM, previously tapped WNIC morning man Chris Edmonds for the added role of overnight host here... Robert Feder column

All Access:

Kevin O'Neill To Host Afternoons At WLIT/Chicago: CLEAR CHANNEL AC WLIT/CHICAGO has obtained the afternoon drive services of sister AC WNIC/DETROIT afternoon host KEVIN O'NEILL. O'NEILL, who will be voicetracking the show from DETROIT, replaces afternoon host DAVE HILTON, who steps down to focus on his Production Dir. duties for the station. "KEVIN has been atop the ratings in the DETROIT market for over 25 years at AC, Hot AC, and CHR stations. He's a genuinely wonderful guy, and is honestly one of the hardest-working talents I've had the pleasure of working with in my career," said DARREN DAVIS, RVP/Programming for the CHICAGO TRADING ZONE and OM/PD for WLIT. "Radio is a true labor of love for KEVIN, and he will be a great addition to WLIT." Remarking on DAVE HILTON, DAVIS noted, "DAVE has done a great job holding down the fort in PM drive for many years, and we'll still hear him doing much of our vacation fill-in work and some weekend shifts." (Fri 3/24)

Dave Shand Named Morning Co-Host At WTKA-/Ann Arbor:
CLEAR CHANNEL Sports WTKA-A/ANN ARBOR, MI has named DAVE SHAND the station's new morning co-host, effective MONDAY (3/27). SHAND, who recently served as co-host of WTKA-A's SUNDAY morning program "OFF THE FIELD," will join morning host MIKE WICKETT for "MORNINGS WITH MIKE AND DAVE." (Fri 3/24)

Ann Arbor News:

They've come in steadily, a few dozen e-mails and phone calls, all asking the same question. What happened to Dennis Fithian? Why, after 11 years, did he suddenly disappear from the afternoon radio airwaves on all-sports WTKA-AM (1050) after the March 14 show?... Fithian will be missed; Radio host's 'every-fan' approach a hit with listeners

Detroit News:

State legislation that would let AT&T Inc. circumvent local franchising requirements as it rolls out Internet-based television service in Michigan could cut communities' revenue and deprive some families of cable TV. A pair of bills, one introduced last week in the state House and another in the Senate earlier in the month, would put the Secretary of State's office in charge of overseeing cable providers rather than local officials... Pair of bills could limit access to cable television (Mon 3/27)

Support for Detroit's new Classical and Jazz radio station faces first major test with 90.9 WRCJ Member Drive

The long-awaited return of classical music and mainstream jazz to Detroit radio has been trumpeted since August 2005 by many fans of 90.9 WRCJ-FM. Now, the area's new public radio station will present its first major membership drive and get a clear indication whether listeners who appreciate the sounds will provide their financial support. Beginning Friday, March 31 and continuing through Friday, April 7, 90.9 WRCJ program hosts and special guests will ask those listeners to make contributions to the non-profit, listener supported station, which is licensed to Detroit Public Schools and operated by Detroit Public Television.

Although the station has made limited fundraising appeals during its eight months as a daytime classical and nighttime jazz format, the spring drive will be the initial attempt to generate contributions through a campaign of live on-air pledging. Daytime classical hosts Dave Wagner, Chris Felcyn and Ann Delisi will welcome special guests to encourage support. Nighttime hosts Tony Mowod and Bob Parlocha will urge Detroit area jazz lovers to contribute. “We are eager to discover whether our growing and devoted audience will make financial commitments to 90.9 WRCJ,” said Bob Scott, WRCJ station manager. “Start-up funding from The Kresge Foundation made this collaboration between Detroit Public Schools and Detroit Public Television a reality, but it is our listeners who ultimately will determine the long-term viability of our classical and mainstream jazz format.”

Tax-deductible contributions to WRCJ may be made by calling 1-866-909-WRCJ or online at wrcj909fm.org. Since its debut, WRCJ has featured the works of many local, national and international musicians, and showcased the events and recordings of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Sphinx Organization, and many other local performers and cultural organizations. From its studios in the Detroit School of Arts in the heart of Detroit's cultural center, 90.9 WRCJ is also providing internships for high school students, which are made possible through a grant from the Whitney Fund through the Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan.

WWJ Newstime wins AP 2005-06 Broadcast Excellence Awards

The Associated Press recently announced the winners of the 2005-2006 Broadcast Excellence Awards. WWJ, Newsradio 950, received the Overall Excellence award in addition to winning 8 'Best' awards in the following categories: Newscast, Spot News, Hard News, Reporting, Investigative Reporting, Natural Sound, Sportscast, and Sports Feature. The awards will be presented at the AP Awards Ceremony in Southfield on April 8, 2006.

Detroit News:

Even when a hometown team opens its baseball schedule on the road, Opening Day is a merry date for fans who view that first pitch of the season the way Bill Gates saw his first laptop. Promise and potential are unlimited heading into the inaugural ballgame. Thanks to a recent, high-tech invention called television, fans can hunker inside their living rooms on a chilly April day or evening, saddle up to the sofa, pour a beverage of their choice and slurp up some baseball as tulips poke through the soil. Unless, of course, you follow baseball in Detroit in 2006. Barring some kind of deal this week with TV20 -- which is possible -- the Tigers will be on radio, only, when their 2006 season opens Monday in Kansas City (Please note, this information is incorrect-- Fox Sports Net has previously scheduled and will carry the opening day game from Kansas City)... TV schedule is Tigers' first error (Tue 3/28)

All Access:

Detroit's Eli Zaret Launches Sports Feature: Veteran DETROIT sportscaster ELI ZARET launches a two-minute syndicated sports segment, "SMART SPORTS," which will air on four DETROIT stations. The segment will air on MONDAY and FRIDAY mornings at 7:55a on CBS Sports WXYT-A and Talk WKRK (LIVE 97.1 FREE FM) and CLEAR CHANNEL Sports WDFN-A and Talk WDTW-A, and on MONDAY and THURSDAY afternoons at 5:55p on WDFN, WXYT, and WDTW. (Tue 3/28)

WQKL To Begin Webcasting: CLEAR CHANNEL AAA WQKL/ANN ARBOR, MI announced today that the station will begin a webcast this THURSDAY (3/30) at 12:01a. The webcast, dubbed the "107one World Service," will be a live, real-time stream of the station's programming, 24 hours a day. Listeners will be able to visit the station's website at www.annarbors107one.com and follow the links to listen on a computer. (Tue 3/28)

Radio and Records:

Dave Shand joins Mike Wickett in mornings at WTKA-AM/Ann Arbor, MI. Shand was previously the co-host of the station's Sunday morning Off The Field program. (Tue 3/28)

Greater Media, Inc. Marks 50 Years in Broadcasting

Greater Media, Inc. (GMI), owner of Rock WRIF-FM 101.1, Classic Rock 94.7, and WMGC-FM 105.1 in Detroit, will officially mark 50 years in broadcasting on Friday, March 31st, 2006. Owned by the Bordes family, the company was originally founded on March 31, 1956 by Yale classmates Peter A. Bordes and Joseph Rosenmiller. Greater Media, Inc. is considered to be one of the largest and few remaining privately-held broadcast companies in America. GMI's corporate headquarters are located in Braintree, Massachusetts.

From the ownership of a single radio station in Southbridge, Massachusetts, Greater Media steadily and quietly built a broad-based combination of successful communications companies, spanning America from coast to coast. By the 1980's, Greater Media's business included radio, cable television, printing, publishing, and telecommunications operations. In 1999, the company sold its cable business in order to focus more exclusively on its radio and newspaper operations. Today, Greater Media is the parent company of 19 AM and FM radio stations in Boston, Detroit, Philadelphia and New Jersey; a modern printing plant and a group of weekly newspapers in central New Jersey; and several telecommunications towers throughout the United States.

"I am proud of the achievements of our company over the past years," said John Bordes, Greater Media's Chairman of the Board. "My brother wanted the company to remain independent and locally based. Lee Bordes, Peter Smyth and I are going to do exactly that. We look forward to growing Greater Media in the coming years. We believe passionately in the radio business."

"Greater Media is the culmination of Peter Bordes' life's work. Peter believed passionately in the strength of locally based, creative broadcasting that serves the needs of the community,” said Peter Smyth, President and CEO of Greater Media. He added, “In the coming years, Greater Media will continue to be among the first broadcasters to embrace new technologies and new methods of communicating with our listeners and advertisers. We know that is what Mr. Bordes would want us to be doing."

Detroit Winter Phase II ratings released

WNIC remains on top in the 12+ ratings, but the remainder of the top 10 spots shuffles dramatically. See the ratings at Radio and Records, discuss 'em on the Michigan Radio & TV Buzzboard.

WMGC announces first-ever wine testing event

WMGC-FM, Magic 105.1, will hold its first-ever Wine Tasting Event from 7-10pm on Friday, April 7th, 2006 at the Marble & Granite Gallery on Telegraph Rd. (between 8 and 9 Mile Roads) in Southfield. The event will feature hors d'oeuvres over 10 types of wines that will be showcased with experts on-hand to educate attendees about the specific types featured at the event. Additionally, there will be a silent auction with proceeds benefiting the American Heart Association. The event will be hosted by the Magic Morning Show's Linda Lanci and other Magic 105.1 personalities. Listeners will not be able to purchase tickets to this event- instead they will have to listen to the station for details on how to win entry.

Detroit Free Press:

Tuesday's monthly Arbitrend radio report card for December, January and February shows Santa Claus continued to deliver for soft-rocker WNIC-FM. Still buoyed by high numbers for its December holiday music, it clung to the No. 1 position among all listeners 12 and older. But the end is near -- the December numbers get factored out next month. There are plenty of interesting numbers throughout this report. Country WYCD-FM surged to No. 2 overall and to No 3 in the key age 25-54 demographic. That's the station's highest ranking in eons... Holiday feeling lingers at WNIC (Wed 3/29)

Detroit News:

The Tigers decided Tuesday to end negotiations with TV20, which stood to televise a package of "free" TV games similar to the block of telecasts that once aired on Channel 50. "We were notified today by the Tigers that they opted not to move forward with our proposal," said Sarah Norat-Phillips, TV20 general manager. "I hate saying all is lost, but they're not pursuing our option"... Tigers, TV20 break off talks (Wed 3/29)

Detroit News:

Friday begins spring fundraising for public radio stations WDET-FM ( 101.9), WUOM-FM (91.7) and WRCJ-FM (90.9), and it's going to be anything but a routine few weeks, for any of them. WRCJ is entering its first fundraiser ever, and classical music fans who've been clamoring for their favorite format since the demise of classical radio in Detroit back in the late '90s will need to pony up some cash if they like WRCJ's daytime classical, nighttime and weekend jazz mix... Radio stations set for spring fundraisers (Thu 3/30)

All Access:

WDFN/Detroit Adds "The Ottoman Sports Empire": CLEAR CHANNEL Sports WDFN-A/DETROIT gives update anchor/reporter ROB OTTO his own weekend show. "THE OTTOMAN SPORTS EMPIRE" launches APRIL 2 with KANSAS CITY STAR columnist (and former WHB-A and KSCP-A/KANSAS CITY host) JASON WHITLOCK and USA TODAY columnist CHRISTINE BRENNAN guesting on the opening installment. (Thu 3/30)

Detroit News:

When Channel 7 fired news anchor Frank Turner in 1998, it followed revelations of crack cocaine addiction and thousands of dollars in telephone sex line charges. Now Turner's lifestyle choices have the anchor and the TV station going to the mat again -- but the circumstances could not be more different. Turner, a born-again Christian who returned to the 5 p.m. anchor desk in 2000 a changed man, has filed a complaint against WXYZ-TV with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for refusing him permission to host an evangelical radio program in his spare time... TV anchor's choice: God or Ch. 7 job (Fri 3/31)

Detroit Free Press:

Frank Turner's contract to anchor the news at WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) expires at year's end, the station says. And the likelihood he'll continue much beyond that has been clouded by his new Equal Opportunity Commission filing against the station for enforcing its exclusive contract for his broadcast services. Turner, who embraced evangelical Christianity after well-publicized cocaine and phone porn scandals in the late 1990s, wants to launch a two-hour weekday show on Christian broadcaster WEXL-AM (1340)... Turner pushing Channel 7 to allow his radio evangelism (Fri 3/31)

Flint Journal:

Michigan Public Radio got some good news for a change recently when it was named one of the best public radio stations in the state by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters. The Ann Arbor-based station, WUOM (91.7), which simulcasts in Flint as WFUM (91.1), earned the designation after winning eight 2005 Broadcast Excellence Awards from the MAB... Michigan Public Radio earns eight awards of excellence (Fri 3/31)

Detroit News:

When Deborah Tate joined the Federal Communications Commission in January, she knew her responsibilities would be vast, from reviewing corporate mergers to shepherding small towns into the digital age. But she wasn't quite prepared for all the swearing, violence and sex. "I'm not sure that it ever dawned on me that when I was appointed or sworn in that I -- the FCC commissioners -- would actually watch all of these" TV and radio shows named in indecency complaints, she said. Tate and her fellow commissioners agree it is an issue of great public concern... Guardians of decency (Sun 4/2)

Obituary: Richard A. Femmel may have changed jobs, but in his soul, he was always a shoe-leather reporter who preferred the facts to the sensational and didn't sleep until the story was put to bed. A founding member of the Detroit Press Club and nationally recognized broadcaster, Mr. Femmel was known for his intellectual curiosity, serious mind and level head. In 1964 and 1965, he won the National Headliners Award for the nation's most outstanding television editorials... WXYZ anchor focused on the facts (Sun 4/2)

CKWW set to debut Sunday morning Oldies program

CKWW AM 580, Motor City Favorites, has announced a new show coming to its weekend line-up. “The Sunday Morning Oldies Show” is set to premiere this Sunday, April 9th at 10 AM. The two hour locally produced program will feature great oldies from the 50's and 60's, with some early 70's mixed in as well. It will be hosted by AM 580's Charlie O'Brien. Weekly features will include a Top 3 countdown from this week in history – highlighting past music charts from CKLW, Keener 13 and WXYZ - along with listener requests and stories behind the hits.

Charlie O'Brien brings a wealth of musical knowledge from the Motor City's music scene as a former “CKLW-Big 8” jock. He also hosts the AM 580 Morning Show heard weekdays. The Sunday Morning Oldies Show will air every Sunday from 10 AM to 12 Noon following Elvis Only! at 9 AM.

Detroit News:

The Appliance Doctor's wife once asked him to drill a few little holes alongside a window so she could hang a curtain rod. "When I was through," Joe Gagnon says, "I could have stuck my head in there. I had to hire a handyman to patch it up and repaint it." Along the same line, "I'm great at screwing up plumbing," he says. "If I touch a faucet, it starts leaking." So what the heck is he doing hosting a radio show called "Ask the Handyman"? Gagnon, 64, has been asking himself that question a lot lately -- and as of Monday, he's not hosting it anymore... Appliance Doctor gets a new practice on Ann Arbor radio (Wed 4/5)

Detroit News:

CBS's Detroit music stations are rolling out online streaming this month, so get your headphones plugged into your work computer. As of this past Monday, you could go to www.wvmv.com and hear Smooth Jazz WVMV-FM (98.7) by clicking and listening online. Friday, country station WYCD-FM (99.5) will inaugurate its online stream at www.wycd.com with a special in-studio interview with the group Rascal Flatts at 6 p.m. with hosts Edwards & Lee... Detroit's CBS stations offer online streaming (Thu 4/6)

All Access.com

Mojo In The Morning Talks To Kim Mathers; Eminem Responds: CLEAR CHANNEL Top 40 WKQI (CHANNEL 95-5)/DETROIT's "MOJO IN THE MORNING" scored an exclusive interview with EMINEM's wife, KIM MATHERS, this morning. In the interview, KIM shares exclusive insight into the couple and their problems, which lead to yesterday's announcement that the rapper had filed for his second divorce from KIM just 82 days after the couple remarried. For audio and more, click here.

UPDATE: Following the interview, the station received the following email, which they claim was sent by EMINEM himself. "The details surrounding both my marriage and subsequent filing for divorce are private and I had hoped to keep them that way for the sake of my family. However, a few of Kim's statements in the interview this morning need to be addressed. First, her allegations regarding my status post-rehab are both untrue and unfortunate. Second, she was aware that I was filing for divorce. We both tried to give our marriage another chance and quickly realized that a wedding doesn't fix the underlying problems." (Thu 4/7)

Detroit Free Press:

Honored: WDIV-TV (Channel 4) reporter and former Free Press scribe M.L. Elrick at Thursday's Wayne State University Journalism Day luncheon. He received a WSU Journalist of the Year award for his reportage on city government and mayoral shenanigans. Tim Kiska, WWJ-AM (950) News radio producer, was journalist of the year for his perceptive analysis of mayoral voting returns and his book: "From Soupy to Nuts," the history of Detroit television ... Kim Mathers said Thursday that husband Eminem's (Marshall Mathers III) divorce filing on Wednesday left her surprised -- 82 days into their second marital go-round. Taking to the air Thursday morning on WKQI-FM (95.5), Kim Mathers said she hoped they'd get counseling. Instead, an attorney greeted her at her door, serving the divorce papers... Names and Faces (Fri 4/7)

Now that Katie Couric is going to the "CBS Evening News" and Meredith Vieira was named Thursday as her NBC "Today" show replacement, what happens next? Let's speculate. How will Vieira do on "Today"? The 52-year-old cohost of "The View" and host of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" should be a whiz at the fluff stuff. She's also comfy with hard news... Viera vs. Couric: 'View' cohost can shine in new role (Fri 4/7)

Detroit News:

A day after being served with divorce papers by hip-hop superstar Eminem, Kimberley Mathers called into WKQI-FM's (95.5) "Mojo in the Morning" show and gave her side of the story. She alleged Eminem is again struggling with drug addiction and said she hasn't talked to him in more than a month. She said he left their home a month and a half ago and "comes around once a week" to see their kids... Kim tells her side to Mojo (Fri 4/7)

The current shakeup on morning network news continued Thursday with Meredith Vieira's announcement that she will co-anchor NBC's "Today." Vieira -- best known for her work as the voice of reason for the past nine years on ABC's "The View" and as the host of the syndicated game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" -- made the announcement on "The View" to resounding applause from the audience. According to the Washington Post, Vieira landed a $40 million, multiyear deal with NBC. Katie Couric, 49, who shaped the No. 1-rated "Today" with her bubbly personality and trademark smile for 15 years, announced Wednesday that she will be heading to anchor the "CBS Evening News" and report segments on "60 Minutes." Her helm as a CBS anchor marks the first time a woman has anchored solo on broadcast primetime news... Pundits see success for Vieira (Fri 4/7)

Katie Couric has yet to deliver her first CBS newscast and questions are already swirling as to whether or not she can make it as the first woman in history to solely anchor a network news broadcast. The trademark smile that made Couric a household name for 15 years on NBC's "Today" show could work against her when it comes to delivering hard-hitting news, some television analysts and broadcast journalists said Wednesday. Others contend she is the radical change network news needs... Can Katie cut it? (Thu 4/6)

Ann Arbor News:

Local public radio stations WUOM and WEMU are preparing to wrap up their spring fundraisers this weekend in an unusually difficult climate, but still enjoying strong support from the community - and even the competition. The listener-supported broadcasting outlets of the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University face challenges this year from not only the economy but also, in WUOM's case, criminal charges against former employees. The appeals for support are scheduled to wrap up tonight at 8 for WUOM (91.7 FM) and at 4 p.m. Saturday for WEMU (89.1 FM)... NPR stations wrap up drives (Fri 4/7)

Detroit News:

Katie Couric's decision to leave NBC's "Today" for the meatier, primetime solo anchor gig at CBS has created a lot of opportunities, and not just for her replacement Meredith Vieira. This is also a time, broadcast experts say, that ABC's No. 2 sunrise show "Good Morning America" could steal the top spot in the ratings. Meanwhile, scuttlebutt is surrounding Vieira's old digs, ABC's "The View," where producers are rumored to be seriously talking to actress Patricia Heaton ("Everybody Loves Raymond") as a possible Vieira replacement... Tomorrow may be brighter for ABC (Sat 4/8)

WJR programming notes:

On Monday, April 10th from 9-11:30 AM the Frank Beckmann Show will broadcast live from Coaches Corner located in Harmonie Park for the Detroit Tigers Opening Day 2006. Then on Wednesday and Thursday, April 12-13 from 6-9AM the Paul W. Smith Show will broadcast live from the 2006 New York International Auto Show.

Detroit Free Press:

They're tired of static. They're tired of the morning DJs. They hate commercials. They're tired of the same songs, played over and over and over. These are some of the reasons folks in metro Detroit give for why they decided to plunk down $13 a month for satellite radio... Find your frequency: Satellite radio services promise the stars, portability and channels galore (Mon 4/10)

The Oakland Press:

Cable rates have risen 86 percent in the past 10 years and 40 percent in the past five years, increases that are raising the call for more competition to help moderate prices and give consumers choices. There is a full court press by regional telephone companies on both national and state levels to allow them easy entry into the cable market. A set of state bills allowing AT&T to provide cable service to Michigan markets has been introduced and would bring that competition. But foes of the bill say it would also bring less local control and less local money and would "cherry-pick" only the prime customers. Prime customers are considered to be those in more affluent areas who tend to load up on services and to pay their bills on time... The high cost of cable (Sun 4/9)

Flint Journal:

Ask Jack Frost how important a community-minded radio station can be to its listeners, and he'll offer up the endorsement he got last month during his show on Kettering University's WKUF-FM (94.3). A woman who had just been released from Genesee County Jail called Frost crying in gratitude because she and other inmates were able feel connected to Flint by listening to Frost (real name: Cleven Williams) play hip-hop and R&B made by local artists every afternoon... Our airwaves (Sun 4/9)

All Access:

WTKA/Ann Arbor Renews U. Of Michigan Sports Deal: The UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN and HOST COMMUNICATIONS renew their deal with CLEAR CHANNEL Sports WTKA-A/ANN ARBOR, meaning that the WOLVERINES' football, men's and women's basketball, hockey, and some baseball games will continue to air on the station. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. (Mon 4/10)

Detroit News:

Russ Parr, whose syndicated morning show was dropped by Radio One's WHTD-FM (102.7), aka Hot 102.7, last July, is returning to the station's 6-10 a.m. slot as of this Thursday. "Due to popular demand, he'll be starting on Thursday morning," said vice president and general manager Carol Lawrence-Dobrusin. "We're thrilled to have him back. He was a staple on our station for five years, and he was missed and we're confident that the Russ Parr morning show will be great for Hot 102.7"... Popular demand brings Russ Parr back to airwaves (Tue 4/11)

Detroit Free Press:

The spring fund-raiser for the University of Michigan's public radio stations raised more than $766,000 -- 14% ahead of last year's total -- despite felony embezzlement charges pending against three former employees and a shaky economy. Listeners contributed the lion's share, more than $563,000, during the two-week drive that ended Friday, station manager Jon Hoban said Monday. "The charges do not appear to have hurt us," Hoban said. "We got notes from people with their checks telling us not to worry, they continued to support us"... Michigan Radio drive unhurt by charges against ex-staff (Tue 4/11)

Detroit Free Press:

Back: Syndicated-from-Washington Russ Parr, mornings on Radio One-owned WHTD-FM (102.7), starting Thursday. Parr, now aligned with Radio One stablemate Tom Joyner (mornings on WDMK-FM, 105.9), was broomed from 105.9 for low ratings back when the station played hip-hop instead of R&B... Names and Faces (Wed 4/12)

Ann Arbor News:

Although larger questions about the direction of the University of Michigan's sports radio package remain unanswered, local listeners will be able to dial into Michigan football games on a familiar spot this fall: WTKA-AM (1050). The Ann Arbor-based all-sports station announced it has renewed its agreement with the university's broadcast partner, Host Communications, to be an affiliate for Michigan football and men's basketball. WTKA will carry Michigan hockey, women's basketball and select baseball and softball games, as well. "This means everything to us. It's our identity,'' said WTKA program director Ryan Maguire"... WTKA remains affiliate for U-M (Wed 4/12)

Detroit News

The head of Detroit's public radio station WDET will stand trial on an embezzlement charge, an Ann Arbor judge declared Wednesday after a preliminary examination. Michael Coleman pleaded not guilty to charges of illegally accepting meals and other perks while he was deputy director of Michigan Public Media, the parent of the University of Michigan's radio and TV stations, including Ann Arbor's WUOM. He left the group in the summer to join WDET. Prosecution witness Keith Gordon Orr said Coleman accepted free food and drink from Ann Arbor's Aut Bar in partial payment for on-air mentions of the bistro... Radio exec to be tried over perks (Thu 4/13)

It's been a busy few weeks for the Mojo in the Morning crew on WKQI -FM (95.5), as they've found themselves at the vortex of not one, but two international music stories; first with their exclusive interview with Kim Mathers last Thursday. Mathers phoned into the show about being served with divorce papers from her now-estranged husband Eminem . Then, just two days ago, Mojo talked with friends and associates about the shootings at the CCC Club on Detroit's northeast side that left rapper Proof dead and Army veteran Keith Bender in critical condition. But it's not over yet... WKQI works its Mojo this month (Thu 4/13)

Detroit Free Press:

The former development director for the University of Michigan's public radio pleaded guilty Wednesday to embezzlement for taking merchandise such as a lawn sprinkler system, a Persian rug and a golf membership while working at the stations. As part of the deal, a charge of conspiracy to embezzle was dropped against Justin Ebright, 35, of Whitmore Lake in exchange for his testimony against two former coworkers. At the end of a 4-hour preliminary exam, those men -- Michael Coleman, now general manager for WDET-FM (101.9) in Detroit, and Jeremy Nordquist, 28, of Saline -- were bound over for trial on embezzlement charges by Washtenaw County District Judge John Collins... U-M radio employee pleads guilty (Thu 4/13)

Ann Arbor News:

The practice of accepting free meals and tickets to various events was rampant at WUOM and its affiliates, according to the attorney for one of three former employees accused of trading on-air mentions on the popular public radio station for gifts worth tens of thousands of dollars. Attorney Tom Moors said several other employees at Michigan Public Media, including station managers and organization leaders, also received personal benefits in the form of meals, tickets to Detroit Tiger games, concerts, museums, and local theaters. "The exact thing was going on from top to bottom,'' Moors said before the start of a preliminary court hearing Wednesday... Reynolds testifies at embezzlement hearing (Thu 4/13)

Ann Arbor street personality Shakey Jake Woods is about to be a radio star, thanks to a segment on the show "Weekend America,'' which airs from 2-4 p.m. Saturday on WUOM (91.7 FM). The piece was produced and submitted by Jennifer Guerra, one of the winners in a "Weekend America'' story competition. Guerra, a U-M graduate, is a weekend host-arts and culture producer with Michigan Radio... Radio show to air piece about Shakey Jake (Thu 4/13)

Metro Times:

When the watchdogs at the Center for Media and Democracy released a report last week naming TV stations around the country that had used prepackaged "reports" produced by corporations, News Hits did some clicking at the nonprofit's Web site (prwatch.org) to see if any locals made the list. And, sure enough, there was one Detroit station that made the list of losers. Turns out WJBK-Fox 2 had broadcast two of what industry types call "video news releases," or VNRs. On Jan. 26, 2006, a report on the dangers of tykes surfing the Web was built around a clip created by a public relations firm on behalf of NetTrekker, a company that makes "child safe" Internet search engines... Foxy takes (Wed 4/12)

Clay Walker, Terri Clark & Josh Gracin Headline the 2006 Downtown Hoedown

Country music fans from around the country will head down to Hart Plaza in Downtown Detroit May 19-21st for the 24th Annual 99.5 WYCD Downtown Hoedown featuring an unprecedented 22 national country star acts including Clay Walker, Tracy Byrd, Terri Clark, Westland, MI native Josh Gracin, plus rising cutting edge stars like Miranda Lambert, Josh Turner, Jack Ingram, Jamey Johnson, and Keith Anderson. Local talent will include The Forbes Brothers, Derringer, Redhill, Jill Jack, and The Wrenfields. The Metro Detroit Ford Dealers, Budweiser, Comcast and Pure Romance sponsor the WYCD Downtown Hoedown and the concert proceeds will benefit the Detroit Parks and Recreation Department.

WYCD Program Director Tim Roberts commented, “This WYCD Downtown Hoedown continues our long tradition of bringing the latest in Country Music to over one millions fans in the heart of the Motor City. We appreciate the continued support and partnership with the City of Detroit while providing WYCD Country fans and tourists a world class entertainment event downtown for 3 big days.”

This year's WYCD Downtown Hoedown will be presented by Wasserman Media Group's WMG Events, a leading Los Angeles based event producer and Detroit Winterblast DirectorJon Witz. “We're excited to be collaborating with the City of Detroit, the Department of Parks and Recreation and WYCD in presenting the Downtown Hoedown. As the world's largest free concert, the Downtown Hoedown brings Detroit country music fans a wide spectrum of the best country entertainment in one fantastic setting. We look forward to producing a terrific event,” said WMG Events President, Eli Lande.

The Downtown Hoedown began in 1983 with Hank Williams, Jr., Tanya Tucker, The Kendalls, Brenda Lee and Mel Tillis. Since then, Hart Plaza has seen Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, the Dixie Chicks, Montgomery Gentry, Rascal Flatts, Gretchen Wilson, Big & Rich and more perform at the Hoedown.

WYCD's Downtown Hoedown is free to the public May 19th, 20th and 21st. For complete event details, log on to www.wycdhoedown.com.

'Rif Rock Girl Exotic 8 Party coming up tomorrow, April 15

The “WRIF Rock Girl Search” continues as the “Sexy 16” become the “Exotic 8” this Saturday, April 15 at the Royal Oak Music Theater. This is the second in a series of three WRIF Rock Girl events. WRIF will begin the night by featuring the top 16 contestants, who have been selected through Round One of WRIF's online voting at www.wrif.com. Drew and Mike of WRIF's morning show will host the event, naming the top 8 contestants from Round Two of voting. Those contestants will become known as “The Exotic 8”

Once the “Exotic 8” have been named, WRIF will host a series of contests to feature their talents and get the crowd ready for Round 3 (the final round) of voting, which will begin on Monday, April 17. There will also be live music from local favorites Shipwreck Union. Doors are at 8pm and admission is free. The next and final WRIF Rock girl event will be held at the Emerald Theater in downtown Mt. Clemens. There, the “Exotic 8” will be pared down to the “Fabulous 4” and through a panel of celebrity judges; one woman will be named “WRIF Rock Girl”!

The winner will have the opportunity to represent WRIF for one year. As the WRIF ambassador, she'll attend concerts, VIP parties and events. She'll also receive a $30,000 salary, an ad in Stuff Magazine, a 1-year lease on a new car and she'll star in a WRIF commercial. The contest is open to Michigan residents 21 years of age and older. For official contest rules log on to www.wrif.com.

FSN Detroit has added the following game to its 2006 Tigers television schedule:

Friday, April 21: Tigers at Seattle Mariners, 10:00 PM (pregame show 9:30)

This is the first of several revisions to the Tigers telecast schedule that will be finalized early next week. That revised schedule also will include the 15 games to be televised on WDWB-TV20 starting in June.

Detroit Free Press:

Internet time will soon be the new prime time. The Net and on-demand digital recording services like TiVo have taught us that we can now take control over when and where and how we make our entertainment selections and that advertising need not be a part of them unless we so choose. There are new names for all this... Options put the hurt on TV ads (Fri 4/14)

Detroit's public radio station, WDET finished the on-air portion of their spring fund drive with more than $432,000 in listener donations, slightly ahead of their revised target of $420,000, membership manager Tim Burke said Friday. The announcement comes two days after Michael Coleman, the station's general manager, was ordered to stand trial on an embezzlement charge in Washtenaw County, for allegedly taking food and alcohol in exchange for on-air announcements while he worked at the University of Michigan's public radio and television stations, which include WUOM. (91.7-FM). He has denied any wrongdoing. Although WDET had set a target of $600,000 for the spring fund drive, Burke said he was pleased by the last minute show of support... WDET finishes on-air fund drive at $432,000, ahead of revised target (Fri 4/14)

Detroit News:

I f that wasn't DIRECTV calling my house the other night, who was it? DIRECTV is probably even more curious than I am, but unfortunately, I can't do a great deal to help unravel the mystery. I don't speak Spanish ... Sometimes knowing your audience means knowing you can make fun of it. Alexander Zonjic hosted the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards last weekend, and early on, he asked 1,200 people in a concert hall in suburban Toronto if they recalled what Robin Williams said about their home and native land... Now, telephone sales pitches take Spanish to say no (Fri 4/14)

Flint Journal:

Today will be "Silent Friday" for Owosso radio station WOAP-AM (1080). But it might be temporary. The station was to go off the air at 8 p.m. today, according to Wayne Milks, a board operator at the station, which broadcasts religious programming. But it may be only a temporary silence, according to a representative of WCAR-AM (1090), WOAP's sister station in Garden City. The stations are part of Michigan Catholic Radio, owned by 1090 Investments of Troy. "It's temporarily ceasing broadcast," said the woman, who identified herself only as Janice. "We're kind of restructuring programming and reorganizing," she said. "The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) granted a temporary cease broadcasting (permit). We don't know how long we will have before they have to sign back on"... Catholic radio station goes silent to reorganize, restructure (Fri 4/14)

When TV's WNEM (Channel 5) and WSMH (Channel 66) announced their new news partnership late Monday, effectively ending the latter's 3 1/2-year venture into producing its own newscasts, my first thought was to follow the money. Think about it. Fox66 can continue to have a daily news presence from 10-11 nightly without having to pay for news anchors, camera people or even cameras. It can go back to the way it was before it invested in its own news show in 2003 and still make money from that one hour a night. Meredith Corp.'s Channel 5 can devote considerably more resources - including anchors Sam Merrill and Katie O'Mara - to the new "TV5 News at 10 p.m. on Fox66" (say that three times), which debuts April 24, than Fox66 owner Sinclair Broadcast Group did... Channel 5, Fox 66 news partnership is win-win for both stations (Fri 4/14)

Detroit News:

The Downtown Hoedown, a springtime fixture in Detroit's Hart Plaza for 23 years, will go on this year (May 19-21) with new promoters, Wasserman Media Group of Los Angeles and Arts Beats & Eats promoter Jon Witz, although its future was less than secure only a few months ago. Michael Watts, who promoted the Hoedown for the last nine years and worked with the festival for 22 of its 24 years, said Thursday that his verbal contract with the Detroit Recreation Department to produce this year's festival was canceled. He said he was "forced out" of the event by the hosting radio station, WYCD-FM (99.5)... Promoter hitch won't derail popular Hoedown (Sat 4/15)

Detroit Free Press:

Debuting: "Eye on Style," at 7 tonight on CBS Detroit (WWJ-TV, Channel 62). Hosted by Dana Kushkin, the monthly show will look at metro Detroit's retail, lifestyle and beauty scenes... Names and Faces (Sat 4/15)

Revised Tigers TV schedule announced

FSN Detroit Telecast Slate Revamped with 13 New Games- First of 15 Over-the-Air Games on TV20 is June 1 vs. Yankees

The Detroit Tigers 2006 television schedule has been revised, including 15 games to be televised on WDWB-TV20 Detroit. Among the 15 games in the TV20 package, 13 were originally on the FSN Detroit telecast schedule. Those 13 games have been replaced on the FSN slate. In all, there are 127 Tigers games on television this season. The 15 games airing on TV20 will be produced by FSN Detroit, including its Tigers announcers Mario Impemba and Rod Allen.

Following is a rundown of the Tigers TV schedule changes and additions:

Games on TV20:
Thu. June 1 vs. N.Y. Yankees 7:05
Sat. June 3 vs. Boston 7:05
Thu. June 8 at Chicago White Sox 8:05
Sat. June 17 at Chicago Cubs 4:05
Sat. June 24 vs. St. Louis 7:05
Fri. June 30 at Pittsburgh 7:05
Thu. July 13 vs. Kansas City 7:05
Sat. July 22 vs. Oakland 7:05
Sat. July 29 at Minnesota 7:10
Thu. Aug. 3 at Tampa Bay 7:15
Sat. Aug. 5 vs. Cleveland 7:05
Fri. Aug. 11 at Chicago White Sox 8:35
Sat. Aug. 19 vs. Texas 7:05
Sat. Aug. 26 at Cleveland 7:05
Sat. Sept. 2 vs. L.A. Angels 7:05

Games Added to FSN:
Fri. April 21 at Seattle 10:05
Tue. May 2 vs. Kansas City 7:05
Sun. May 14 at Cleveland 1:05
Mon. June 12 vs. Tampa Bay 7:05
Fri. July 7 at Seattle 10:05
Sun. July 16 vs. Kansas City 1:05
Mon. July 31 at Tampa Bay 7:15
Tue. Aug. 1 at Tampa Bay 7:15
Mon. Aug. 7 vs. Minnesota 7:05
Thu. Aug. 17 vs. Texas 7:05
Sun. Aug. 27 at Cleveland 1:05
Mon. Sept. 4 vs. Seattle 1:05
Sat. Sept. 16 vs. Baltimore 7:05

The complete Tigers 2006 schedule can be viewed / printed by clicking here. (pdf format)

Detroit News:

Country stars Terri Clark, Westland's own Josh Gracin, Clay Walker and Tracy Byrd will headline this year's Downtown Hoedown, set for Hart Plaza on May 19-21. Some of the up-and-coming, young country talent booked for the festival includes Miranda Lambert, Josh Turner, Jack Ingram, Jamey Johnson and Keith Anderson... Hoedown to get down with Terri Clark, Clay Walker (Mon 4/17)

Kalamazoo Gazette:

The practice of accepting free meals and tickets to various events was rampant at the National Public Radio station based in Ann Arbor, according to the attorney for one of three former employees accused of trading on-air mentions for gifts worth tens of thousands of dollars. Attorney Tom Moors said several other employees at Michigan Public Media, including station managers and organization leaders, also received personal benefits in the form of meals and tickets to Detroit Tigers games, concerts, museums and local theaters... Taking gifts rampant at radio station, lawyer says (Mon 4/17)

Red Wings playoffs 1st round TV Schedule set

The schedule and TV coverage for the Detroit Red Wings first round playoff series against the Edmonton Oilers has been announced:

Game 1: Friday April 21, WJBK Fox 2 Detroit, CBC, OLN, 7:00 PM
Game 2: Sunday April 23, NBC (WDIV Ch. 4 Detroit), CBC, 1:00 PM
Game 3: Tuesday April 25, Fox Sports Net Detroit, CBC, OLN, 10:00 PM
Game 4: Thursday April 27, Fox Sports Net Detroit, CBC, OLN, 9:30 PM
Game 5*: Saturday April 29, NBC (WDIV), CBC, 3:00 PM
Game 6*: Monday May 1, Fox Sports Net Detroit, CBC, OLN, TBD
Game 7*: Wednesday May 3, Fox Sports Net Detroit, CBC, OLN, 7:00 PM

(* if necessary) Games on OLN subject to blackout restrictions

WDET to air documentary series on cancer

Detroit Public Radio has announced that it will air "Walking Through The Storm," a four-part documentary series that explores what cancer survivors can teach us all about hope and quality of life. The series was written and produced for public radio by David Freudberg and will air on WDET on April 23 and April 30 from 11am to 1pm. Each part of the series looks at a different facet of the survivor experience.

Among the many voices taking part in the series, listeners will hear from Dr. Susan Gardin, who counsels pediatric cancer patients in Detroit; Dr. Herbert Benson, President, Harvard University Mind/Body Institute; Robert Schimmel, cancer survivor and comedian; Dr. Andrew Weil, medical author; Dr. David Rosenthal, former President of American Cancer Society; and Hal Ackerman, cancer survivor and UCLA film professor.

Details of each of the four parts of this series and specific air time is detailed below:

Part 1: Journey for Recovery (airs Sunday, April 23 from 11am to 12pm): Cancer patients confront their fears - real and imagined; and a scientific look at how attitude affects health. How mind/body techniques can diminish cancer pain; and the therapeutic effects of keeping a personal diary.

Part 2: Humor and Health (airs April 23 from 12pm to 1pm): Hear professional comedians who are cancer survivors and learn the health benefits of humor and laughter. Playwrights who've used the stage for humor and poignant insight about their journeys through illness.

Part 3: The Will to Live (airs Sunday, April 30 from 11am to 12pm): In powerful dialogues with other patients, authentic connections emerge when people face their mortality. Physician Rachel Naomi Remen counsels patients drawing from her own bout with a life-threatening illness.

Part 4: The Power of Belief (airs Sunday, April 30 from 12pm to 1pm): Whether
or not people of faith, cancer patients go deeply into themselves to ponder their lives. A rabbi whose daughter died of cancer teaches martial arts to young patients, helping them find inner strength.

Detroit Free Press:

The former director of the University of Michigan's public radio and TV stations received more than $108,000 in exchange for his resignation and cooperation in a criminal probe of the stations, according to documents obtained by the Free Press. Donovan Reynolds, 55, also agreed not to bring legal action against U-M for age discrimination in exchange for the severance, the equivalent of nine months' salary, the records obtained under the state's Freedom of Information Act show. The settlement was paid out of the $9.4-million budget of Michigan Public Media, the stations' umbrella organization... Ex-chief paid in radio scandal (Wed 4/19)

All Access:

89X 15th Birthday Bash Happens June 18th: CHUM LTD. Alternative CIMX (89X)/DETROIT celebrates its "89X 15TH BIRTHDAY BASH" on JUNE 18th at the STATE THEATRE. 89X announced the line-up this afternoon (4/18) will be DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL, HAWTHORNE HEIGHTS, AFI, YEAH YEAH YEAHS, GUSTER, MINLESS SELF INDULGENCE, WE ARE SCIENTISTS, SAY ANYTHING, ASHES OF SOMA, LOVE ARCADE, and BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH. (Tue 4/18)

Beck Adds More Affiliates: PREMIERE's GLENN BECK adds two new weekday affiliates, KBLU-A/YUMA,AZ and KKSA-A/SAN ANGELO, TX. Adding BECK's weekend edition: WAAM-A/ANN ARBOR, KFTK/ST. LOUIS, WJNO-A/WEST PALM BEACH, KSCB-A/LIBERAL, KS, and KBLU. (Tue 4/18)

Supertalk 1560/Toledo Adds Michigan Football: CUMULUS Talk WTOD-A (SUPERTALK 1560)/TOLEDO adds UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN football under a new 3 year deal. Sister Sports WLQR-A (1470 THE TICKET) already carries OHIO STATE football, which should make things interesting in the CUMULUS/TOLEDO hallways when the two bitter rivals meet this FALL. (Wed 4/19)

Pistons playoffs 1st round TV Schedule set

The schedule and TV coverage for the Detroit Red Wings first round playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks has been announced:

Game 1: Sunday April 23, Fox Sports Net Detroit and TNT, 7:00 PM
Game 2: Wednesday April 26, WDWB Ch. 20 Detroit and NBATV, 7:30 PM
Game 3: Saturday April 29, Ch. 20 and ESPN, 9:00 PM
Game 4: Monday May 1, Ch. 20 and TNT, TBD
Game 5*: Wednesday May 3, Ch. 20, TBD
Game 6*: Friday May 5, Ch. 20, TBD
Game 7*: Sunday May 7, Ch. 20, TBD

(* if necessary)

Sunday's Tigers-Mariners Game to be simulcast on FSN Detroit and WDWB-TV 20

Due to Pistons' playoff basketball coverage, the television coverage of this Sunday's Detroit Tigers-Seattle Mariners game will be simulcast on FSN Detroit and WDWB-TV20. Game time is 4:00 PM. FSN will have the Tigers pregame show at 3:30. If the Tigers game is still in progress after 6:30 PM, coverage will continue through conclusion on TV20. Meanwhile, FSN viewers will be shifted to coverage of the Pistons-Milwaukee Bucks playoff game, which will include Tigers-Mariners updates.

Detroit Free Press:

In the words of WRIF-FM (101.1) broadcast immortal Arthur Penhallow--BAAAAAABY! Offspring are springing out all over. Let's start with the locals: WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) reporter-anchor Christy McDonald and hubby WDFN-AM (1130) morning man Jamie Samuelsen have welcomed a son, Joshua Thomas Samuelsen... McDonald, Samuelsen have a boy (Thu 4/20)

Detroit News:

Make sure your TV remote has fresh batteries for the playoffs. And stretch your channel-changing thumb to prevent cramping or carpal tunnel syndrome. The Pistons, and especially the Wings, will be all over the place, starting Friday. The Wings' first-round matchup with Edmonton equals TV-viewing riches. The Wings will be on FSN Detroit, NBC, OLN, Channel 2 and CBC in the first round, meaning there shouldn't be a problem finding a channel ... Airwave oddities: Two odd things happened in local radioland over the last week, leaving some scratching their heads: WDFN's Rob Otto had former WDFN mid-morning host Brandon Tierney as a guest on his April 16 show. Tierney calmly ripped the station and morning show hosts Jamie Samuelsen and Greg Brady ... WXYT station honcho Rich Homberg denies this job listing is current, but it was up on cbsradio.com until Tuesday afternoon. And I have the printout of the help-wanted ad. His station was advertising for experienced on-air talent, with at least five years morning show experience in a major market... Wings, Pistons games will be all over the dial (Thu 4/20)

Ann Arbor News:

The plug has been pulled on Johnny Danger's Depot Town Radio. The unlicensed, Ypsilanti-based "pirate'' station that could be heard at 89.5 FM, was shut down this week, reportedly by the Federal Communications Commission. The low-power station began broadcasting in January and could only be picked up in the Depot Town area and south to about I-94. "It was the best thing that ever happened to Depot Town. ... Everybody loved it,'' said Linda French, owner of Sidetrack restaurant. "Part of the fun was trying to figure out where it was being broadcast from. It wasn't like they were interfering with anybody... 'Pirate' radio in Ypsilanti is scuttled (Thu 4/20)

Fischer to offer analysis for WXYT

Sidelined Red Wings' defenseman Jiri Fischer will offer his analysis of the Wings playoff run for Sports WXYT-AM (1270) beginning with Sunday's Game 2 against Edmonton. Fischer will be contributing to WXYT's local pregame coverage throughout the playoffs.

Fischer has been sidelined since November when he was struck with a heart ailment during a game against the Nashville Predators at Joe Louis Arena.

Detroit News:

Gene Schabath was watching the Red Wings' game the other night in Sterling Heights while he talked on the phone with his son Matt, who was watching the game on the same cable station in Houston. Well into the third period against the Dallas Stars, Matt interrupted their conversation with a whoop and a huzzah, in honor of the Wings' first goal. "What the heck are you talking about?" said his loving dad. "They didn't score"... Houston knows first: Why Macomb gets dad gets delayed TV feed (Fri 4/21)

Ann Arbor News:

Whether or not local radio DJ Thayrone's lawsuit against WEMU, the public broadcasting station at Eastern Michigan University, has enough merit to go to trial may be decided by the Michigan Supreme Court. Kenneth McKanders, legal counsel for EMU, said Thursday that the university has decided to appeal a Feb. 28 decision by a Michigan appeals court panel that reinstated Theron Hughes' wrongful dismissal suit against the station. Hughes, who goes by the on-air name Thayrone, was host of "The Bone Conduction Music Show'' for 17 years on WEMU (89.1 FM) before being fired in 2003... EMU appeals case of fired DJ (Fri 4/21)

2nd Annual Big Show for the Big Cure Bowlathon

Sports WXYT-AM 1270 afternoon hosts Art Regner and Doug Karsch will be hosting their 2nd annual bowlathon to promote prostate cancer research beginning Thursday April 27 at 2:00 PM and running 28 hours thru Friday afternoon at Lucky Strike Lanes at Fountain Walk in Novi. Proceeds from the "Big Show for the Big Cure" will benefit the Heny Ford Vattikuti Urology Institute.

For a small donation of $12.70 you can enjoy two games of bowling (shoe rental included) plus take part in many activities including live bands, silent auctions brought to you by Detroit Sports Gallery, celebrity guests, free PSA screenings and much more. In addition, there will be a Red Wings Playoff Viewing Party Thursday, April 27th at 9:30pm. There will be 6 Big Screens with the game on and Art will be doing his pre-game LIVE from Lucky Strike Lanes.

This year there will also be an on-line auction where listeners can bid on some fantastic prizes. On-line bidding starts today and will run until Monday, May 1st at 2pm. Visit the WXYT home page at www.1270sports.com for more information.

Smith to sub for Limbaugh

News-Talk WJR-AM morning man Paul W. Smith will fill in for nationally syndicated talk host Rush Limbaugh tomorrow (April 25th) from noon-3pm EDT.

Station makes announcements and lists accomplishments for 2006

WOMC-FM 104.3 announced today that the heritage Detroit radio station has a new name, “Motor City's 104.3 WOMC.” The station had been known as “Oldies 104.3 WOMC” since 1989. The word “Oldies” has traditionally meant music of the 1950s to many people and WOMC has actually never been a ‘50s-only' based radio station. “We are proud of our heritage in the Motor City and ‘Oldies' seems too limiting for what WOMC is overall,” says Steve Allan, WOMC Program Director.

WOMC will continue to play music of the 1960s and 1970s by artists such as: The Beatles, Rolling Stones, the great performers from the Motown era like the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, 4 Tops, plus Eagles, Elton John and Fleetwood Mac. “WOMC remains a top, personality-driven radio station with Dick Purtan in the mornings and market veteran Tom Ryan anchoring the ride home. As many other stations have done in different markets, this is not a format change, we are just dropping the word ‘Oldies' to better reflect the evolution of our product,” commented Allan.

In making this announcement, Vice President/General Manager Kevin Murphy says, “This is a natural progression for an ‘Oldies' station. Along with our new logo, our new positioning statement is ‘Dick Purtan Mornings and The Hits You Loved Growing Up.'”

The other major announcements for WOMC this year are: Dick Purtan, who recently signed a five-year contract, is being inducted into the National Association of Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Plus, listeners can now hear WOMC live on their computers at www.womc.com through audio streaming; and, WOMC is now heard in HD Radio. “This is the perfect time for us to introduce our new name and to celebrate some huge accomplishments for WOMC,” says Murphy.

Dick Purtan and Purtan's People have been on WOMC for 10 years, since April 15, 1996. His five-year deal is a testament to his staying power in Detroit and strong connection with his thousands of loyal listeners. He will be inducted into the NAB Radio Hall of Fame on April 25, 2006, joining such radio legends as: Casey Kasem, Paul Harvey and Orson Wells; entertainers Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and George Burns; and Presidents Herbert Hoover and Ronald Regan. Dick Purtan is the only Detroit-based radio personality to be inducted into this prestigious Hall of Fame.

Listeners may now sign up for the Purtan's People email club at www.womc.com to hear the radio station anytime from their computers. Streaming has been one of the most requested features by listeners through telephone calls and emails to WOMC.

CBS Radio has implemented HD Radio technology developed by iBiquity Digital at many of its radio stations across the country including Motor City's 104.3 WOMC. HD Radio technology transmits digital audio and data alongside existing AM and FM analog signals, allowing listeners with HD Radio compatible receivers to enjoy crystal-clear digital sound and reception - AM sounds like FM; and FM sounds like a CD. The technology also provides listeners a variety of desired information such as song titles, artist names, traffic updates, weather forecasts, sports scores, and more.

Rick Bloom to broadcast daily stock market updates on Michigan Radio Network affiliates

Rick Bloom, the host of the Rick Bloom Show on WDTK-AM 1400 in Detroit and a financial columnist for the Oakland Press, will begin airing twice-daily business reports on Michigan Radio Network (MRN) affiliates throughout the state beginning Monday, May 1, 2006. The business updates will be heard daily before the stock market opens and after the market close.

Bloom, a recipient of Worth Magazine's “Top 250 Financial Planners”, will provide daily commentary on the stock market and economic conditions, financial planning tips and other business news that impacts Michiganders. He is an attorney and a CPA, and is a partner in Bloom Asset Management, Inc. in Farmington Hills.

“I look forward to doing these business updates each day, and I plan to make these segments more than just a standard stock market update,” Bloom said. “I pride myself in talking in simple terms about the stock market and finance, and I will relate changes in the market and economy to the listeners daily lives."

The Lansing-based Michigan Radio Network provides news and sports information to more than 60 radio stations throughout the state. The network will distribute two separate one-minute reports from Rick Bloom to its affiliates each business day. MRN News Director Rob Baykian said he looks forward to adding Bloom to the network's program line-up. “We're excited to have a highly respected business analyst such as Rick Bloom on the Michigan Radio Network,” said Baykian. “Rick provides us with an exclusive product that focuses on Michigan stocks and other business news.”

For a list of MRN affiliates, go to www.michiganradionetwork.com.

Alexander Zonjic to perform in Mother's Day weekend concert to benefit homeless in Canada

For the tenth year, flutist and Smooth Jazz WVMV-FM 98.7 morning host Alexander Zonjic will be performing a charity concert for the Windsor Downtown Mission to benefit the homeless on Mother's Day weekend, Saturday, May 13. The Mission feeds the homeless, offers them spiritual and moral support, provides health care, referrals, clothing, and employment support.

The concert will feature Alexander Zonjic & Friends with special guests guitarist Ken Navarro and vocalist Thornetta Davis. It takes place at the Capital Theatre in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for children, $20 for adults and $45 for preferred seating.

“The Windsor Downtown Mission does good work and I am especially eager to help out a good cause in my hometown,” said Zonjic. For more information and tickets, call the Windsor Downtown Mission at (519) 973-5573.

Radio & Records:

The legendary host of WOMC (Motor City 104.3)/Detroit's morning show gave NAB Radio Luncheon attendees a good laugh today, as Purtan was inducted into the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame at NAB2006. For 40 years Purtan has given belly laughs to his loyal isteners throughout Michigan, northern Ohio and southwestern Ontario with comedic commentary and topical wit. Accompanying him in accepting the honor was his 94-year-old father, Paul Purtan; his wife, Gail; and his six daughters and their husbands... Dick Purtan Inducted Into NAB Hall of Fame (Wed 4/26)

Detroit Free Press:

Michigan's media world just got a powerful new partnership. Effective Friday, May 5, the Detroit Free Press – the state's most read newspaper – and WDIV-TV Local 4 -- Michigan's oldest and best known television station – will share reporting resources in print, over the air and on the Internet... Free Press, WDIV announce new partnership (Wed 4/26)

Radio and Records:

What's hot in Detroit radio? Urban, Country, News, and Contemporary Hits. The 12+ numbers have Adult Urban WMXD on top, followed by a three-way tie for second between Urban WJLB, News WWJ, and Country WYCD. Next was CHR WQKI. Cooling off was Soft Rocker WNIC, which was expected as all the inflated numbers from its Christmas marathon got dropped, and not so hot were Rock WDTW-FM, Variety Hits WDRQ, and News-Talk WJR - those three stations suffered the biggest age 12+ audience erosions when compared to the Fall '05 book. Sports WDFN pushed back ahead of rival WXYT in the winter- especially in the key male demographics... Winter 2006 Detroit Ratings (Thu 4/27)

Detroit News:

The trend in the past year for oldies stations to totally go away hasn't hit Detroit -- yet. But it may be happening in a much more subtle way at WOMC-FM (104.3). Chalk it up to Dick Purtan's enduring popularity that WOMC hasn't entirely changed its format; otherwise it probably would have gone the way of so many other CBS oldies stations by now ... Get your Mojo phone scams: Now available at mojointhemorning.com, and at all Post Bar locations starting Monday is "Mojo in the Morning Phone Scams Vol. Eight"... WOMC is not such an 'oldie' anymore (Thu 4/27)

Detroit Free Press:

Purtan's a hall of a guy: Hall of fame-ing it a second time Tuesday night in Las Vegas was WOMC-FM (104.3) morning host Dick Purtan. This time, Purtan was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasting Hall of Fame before a crowd that included his 94-year-old dad Paul ... On sale: WKQI-FM's (95.5) "Phone Scams Vol. 8" by its Mojo in the Morning crew. There's a CD-release party 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Post Bar, 22065 Michigan in Dearborn... Names and Faces (Thu 4/27)

Michigan's media world is about to get a powerful new partnership. Starting May 5, the Detroit Free Press, Michigan's most-read newspaper, and WDIV-TV, Michigan's oldest, best-known station, will share reporting resources in print, over the air and on the Internet... Free Press, Local 4 join news forces, plan Michigan polling (Thu 4/27)

WRIF selects 'Rock Girl'

Rock WRIF FM 101.1 has announced the winner of its 2006 “WRIF Rock Girl” competition – Lisa W. Lisa made it through three rounds of online voting and the scrutiny of 3 judges at the station's live event last night at the Emerald Theater in Mt. Clemens to be crowned with the title of WRIF Rock Girl.

Through the online voting campaign, the girls were whittled down from 32 to 16 to 8. The “Fabulous Four” were announced at the event last night with the help of emcees, Trudi Daniels, Arthur Penhallow, and Karen Newman. Thena panel of celebrity judges that included Stuff Magazine Cover model Joanna Krupa, Red Wing Alumni Lee Norwood and John Rogin with Pontiac / GMC made the final decision. After a series of questions and a “show us your style” fashion show, Lisa W. was crowned “2006 WRIF Rock Girl” by reigning Rock Girl, Karen Newman.

In addition to the title of WRIF Rock Girl, Lisa will receive a $30,000 salary, a two year lease on a new Pontiac Solstice, and she'll be featured in a WRIF ad in the July issue of Stuff Magazine. WRIF program director, Doug Podell commented, “I'm very pleased with the choice the judges made. Lisa is outgoing, she's a great speaker, she's personable and she likes to rock…what more could we ask for in a WRIF Rock Girl?"

Detroit News:

The final Arbitron radio ratings for winter 2006 were released Thursday, and it's good news for "all news all the time," not so good news for syndicated talk shows or morning hosts with canine monikers. In the morning, WWJ-AM's (950) Joe Donovan and Roberta Jasina chugged past WRIF-FM's (101.1) Drew and Mike to hit the No. 1 spot. Drew and Mike have been a powerhouse for 'RIF for the past decade, with their mix of snarky conversation drawn from the day's headlines, lots of sports talk and irreverent interviews... New radio ratings dial into news, country, and hip-hop (Fri 4/28)

Detroit Free Press:

Radio's first-quarter report card arrived from Arbitron on Thursday, and there was plenty of joy to spread around. Claiming the overall title this quarter -- after tying for it in 2005's fourth quarter -- was R&B player WMXD. The win came largely as a result of Steve Harvey, its powerhouse syndicated morning personality. Then there's country WYCD, which finished in a tie for second, largely because of a surge by its re-energized and restaffed Dr. Don Carpenter morning show... R&B, country head radio pack (Fri 4/28)

WJR's Smith to hit the road

Starting Monday, May 1st and all next week from 5:30-9 AM, WJR morning host Paul W. Smith will be making visits across the state for live remote broadcasts of his program. Smith will highlight various vacation destinations for listeners planning their summer travels around Michigan in addition to discussing local business and government in each location.

The scheduled stops include:
Mon. 5/1: Great Lakes Maritime Center, Port Huron
Tue. 5/2: The Mountain Grand Lodge At Boyne Mountain, Boyne Falls
Wed. 5/3: Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
Thu. 5/4: Shanty Creek Resort & Club, Bellaire
Fri. 5/5: Doubletree Hotel, Bay City

Detroit Free Press:

WJLB-FM's tricked-out, red 2005 Dodge Magnum was stolen Thursday morning from the staff parking lot at Detroit's Osborn High School. It happened while station DJ the Bushman was inside giving a career day speech... WJLB-FM's hot ride disappears (Sat 4/29)

New events added to Downtown Hoedown

World's Largest Free Country Concert- May 19-21, 2006 in Downtown Detroit

Country WYCD-FM 99.5 has added new and improved events for the 2006 WYCD Downtown Hoedown. In addition to the great music all weekend long there will also be a VIP area called the WYCD Roadhouse and a gaming area called GameRiot.

The WYCD Roadhouse will cost $25 per day and will have a “Country Bar” feel with a VIP section of seating on the side of the main stage, specialty food and private bar and bathroom, pool tables, dart boards, a VIP patio with a river view and outdoor seating and local music throughout the weekend. The local talent includes: Sarah Lenore, Tony Phillips, The Orbitsuns, Dani Marine, The Hummingbirds, Jen Cass, Hunter Brucks, Company of Strangers, Horse Cave Trio, and Annie Capps. By purchasing a ticket to the WYCD Roadhouse, you'll also have the chance to meet some of the artists performing at this year's Hoedown. Tickets for the WYCD Roadhouse will go on-sale Friday, May 5th at 10am ONLY at www.wycdhoedown.com.

Nesquick GameRiot is the largest traveling video game event and competition in the world and will be on-site at the Hoedown for the entire weekend. GameRiot gives you the chance to play the hottest and most highly anticipated sports, action and racing titles on more thank 70 state-of-the-art gaming stations with the newest screen technologies and a killer sound system. GameRiot also features “MTV2 head-to-head dog fight” competitions, a huge assortment of prizes, the hottest DJ tracks, and lots of cool giveaways for everyone.

These great attractions add to a music line-up that includes Clay Walker, Josh Gracin, Terri Clark, Sammy Kershaw, Tracy Byrd and many more. For a complete list of artists and events, log on to www.wycdhoedown.com.

Detroit News:

Channel 7 news anchor Frank Turner, the reformed crack and telephone sex addict whose story of personal salvation through Christ has split Metro Detroit into camps of admirers and skeptics, has sued his station in federal court for religious discrimination. Turner, whose six-figure contract gives the station exclusive rights to his talents, alleges WXYZ-TV is violating his civil rights by refusing him permission to host an evangelical radio program in his spare time... Anchor Turner sues Ch. 7 (Tue 5/2)

Detroit Free Press:

On sale: By WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) anchorman Erik Smith, the Huron River Press of Ann Arbor book "From the Heart," based on Smith's video vignettes of the same name. Proceeds will benefit Camp Mak-A-Dream and the no-cost summer camp experience it provides for children and young adults struggling with cancer ... Noory's book, Bell's move: Nationally syndicated radio talk show host and Detroit native George Noory of "Coast to Coast AM" (1 a.m. on CKLW-AM, 800 and WAAM-AM, 1600) has a new book titled "Worker in the Light"... Names and Faces (Mon 5/1)

All Access:

Report: CBS, Clear Channel Sports Stations Included In Cell Phone Service: CBS and CLEAR CHANNEL are providing some of their sports station streams for a mobile phone streaming package through SPRINT. The WALL STREET JOURNAL reports that SPRINT's MSPOT package will include streams from CBS' WFAN-A/NEW YORK, WIP-A/PHILADELPHIA, and WSCR-A (THE SCORE)/CHICAGO to the $5.95/month service, which already includes SPORTING NEWS RADIO and other material, while CLEAR CHANNEL is providing WDFN-A/DETROIT, KBME-A/HOUSTON, WTEM-A/WASHINGTON, and five others to the service. CLEAR CHANNEL has been working with MOTOROLA on a separate deal to provide 75 stations for a mobile phone service, iRADIO, to launch later this year, while CNS has partnered with NOKIA and HP in the VISUAL RADIO service that pairs an FM tuner with on-screen graphics.

WCSX rolls out 'new' billboards

Classic Rock WCSX is putting up billboards across town featuring classic photos of its jocks and artists. Each of the photos has a story behind it -- for more,
visit wcsx.com.

All Access:

WTKA/Ann Arbor Teams With Ufer Fund: CLEAR CHANNEL Sports WTKA-A/ANN ARBOR is partnering with the BOB UFER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND for a series of broadcasts to help the organization raise funds for scholarships for UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN student-athletes. The first event will have PD RYAN MAGUIRE do his afternoon show from the site of the banquet for the 59th annual BOB UFER QUARTERBACK CLUB honors MONDAY (5/8), followed by a series of four vintage UFER broadcasts as "THROWBACK SATURDAYS." UFER, the legendary voice of the WOLVERINES, died in 1981 after 45 years of broadcasting the school's football games. (Tue 5/2)

Mix 92.3's Steve Harvey morning show to visit local high school on Friday

The Steve Harvey Morning Show recently conducted a contest for high school students, encouraging them to vote for their school to win Steve Harvey as their “Principal for a Day”. The local winning high school with the most votes was Detroit's Mumford High School. On Friday, May 5th, the Steve Harvey Morning Show will visit Mumford at 11am for a special pep rally. Students will receive positive words and “stay in school” encouragements from Steve Harvey along with co-hosts, Nephew Tommy and Jacque Reid. National recording artist and cast member of the current stage play running in Detroit, “My Sweet Potato Pie” - Genuwine, will also make a special surprise visit at the school.

WDET to launch two new local programs May 7th

Detroit Public Radio to provide platform for cultural affairs and live performance

WDET-FM (101.9) will introduce listeners to two new local arts programs on Sunday, May 7th with premier broadcasts of Front Row Center (11am - noon) and Live From Studio A (noon - 1pm). Both programs are elements in WDET's commitment to showcase metropolitan Detroit's rich and diverse cultural life.

Front Row Center is hosted and produced by WDET's award-winning arts and culture reporter Celeste Headlee. The show will focus on all aspects of cultural affairs and include interviews, conversations, performances, feature reports and more. Listeners can expect to hear about cultural events from the mainstream to the obscure, as well as important issues that impact the cultural life of our community. The first program on May 7 will feature the baseball exhibit at the Henry Ford, an interview with Dick Clark of the Society of American Baseball Research about the Negro Leagues and a conversation with art collector Dr. Walter Evans about the African American Art Exhibit currently at the DIA. Front Row Center will air each Sunday morning from 11am to noon.

Live From Studio A is hosted and produced by WDET music host Jon Moshier and continues the long tradition of live music performances at Detroit Public Radio. WDET's live music studio, Studio A, is one of the largest live music studios at any radio station in the Midwest. WDET
prides itself on its national reputation for outstanding live music production and Live From Studio A will utilize the station's many resources. Listeners can expect to hear a variety of national,
international and local artists who perform in Studio A. The first program on May 7 will feature performances by acclaimed singer-songwriter Beth Orton and Ann Arbor based local favorite Nomo. Live From Studio A will air each Sunday afternoon from noon to 1pm.

"Programs like these are part of our commitment to serve the community with a premier public radio service," said Allen Mazurek, WDET Program Director. "Introducing listeners to artists and events and celebrating the cultural life of Detroit are an important part of what we do at Detroit Public Radio."

Detroit News:

If you're driving down the Lodge and see the new WCSX-FM (94.7) billboard featuring rock stars schmoozing with the station's jocks (sporting a lot of hair, 1970s eyeglasses, etc.), you're not having an acid flashback. Rather, the station is ballyhooing its veteran staff's history in Detroit, where they not only play the music but know a lot of the musicians... WCSX billboards sell its experience (Thu 5/4)

AllAccess.com:

WDVD Gives Away "Pain For Pistons Tickets": This morning (5/5), ABC Hot AC WDVD/DETROIT, MI's BLAINE & LISA had no trouble finding four PISTON FANS to volunteer to come into the studio and get a chest or back wax. Winner TIM TOM of LINCOLN PARK, MI endured the torture and walked away victorious with a pair of round two PISTONS playoff tickets! (Fri 5/5)

Explosions Cancel Goo Goo Dolls Detroit Show: A freak power line failure caused explosions and a power outage in downtown DETROIT yesterday, resulting in the cancellation of ABC Hot AC WDVD/DETROIT's GOO GOO DOLLS concert at the EMERALD THEATRE. Miraculously, nobody was injured in the series of blasts that sent manhole covers soaring and caused flames to shoot out of the street. A vehicle was damaged, and a cloth gazebo outside of a building was shredded, according to the DETROIT NEWS. SHAWN DEALEY, a drum tech for the GOO GOO DOLLS, found himself ten feet away from an exploding manhole. He told the DETROIT NEWS, "I felt it, and then I heard the big explosion. I then headed back to the theater to get everyone out." The concert had to be cancelled, as power had to be turned off in the entire area to stop the explosions and repair the cable. WDVD PD RON HARRELL summed up the entire situation: "Nutty man." (Fri 5/5)

Drive through job fair coming May 31

Radio One Detroit (Urban WHTD-FM 102.7, Adult Urban WDMK-FM 105.9, News/Talk WCHB-AM 1200) and Art Van Furniture will be hosting a 'Drive Through Job Fair' on Wednesday May 31st at two Detroit area Art Van locations:

- From 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at 22555 Greenfield, Southfield, MI 48075, phone (248) 569-3770
- From 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at 13855 E. Eight Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089, phone (586) 779-9530

On air personalities from Radio One's three Detroit stations will be on hand at both locations giving out information and applications for employment opportunities at many area companies - including Art Van.

Gospel duo Mary-Mary to perform live at Mother's Day brunch

Clear Channel Adult Urban WMXD-FM 92.3 and Urban WJLB-FM 97.9 will once again pay tribute to Detroit's mothers with their annual brunch and a live performance at the Hyatt Regency in Dearborn on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 14th. Hosted by Mix 92.3's Frankie Darcell, FM98's Kris Kelley, and hip-hop balladeer Jaheim, it will be a day of celebrating Mothers and all they do throughout the year.

With the release of the self-titled “Mary Mary”, the Grammy-winning, platinum-selling gospel duo is beginning a new chapter in an already remarkable career. One listen to Mary Mary and you'll immediately see that Erica and Tina are spreading their wings musically, embracing new influences and stretching the boundaries, so there are plenty of surprises. This is a chance for mothers and their families to experience the powerful sound and lyrics of Mary Mary in person.

Our moms are in for a special treat with co-host Jaheim in attendance. Jaheim is a multi-talented artist, most famous for his R&B vocals. He has also rapped, modeled and acted, as has also appeared in Source and other hip-hop publications.

In celebration of the Mother's Day Brunch, realcheaphouse.com, Bretlin Home Mortgage, the Michigan Chronicle, and Michigan Front Page are presenting area moms with a chance to be mortgage free to an entire year! Mothers can simply log on to realcheaphouse.com or pick up a Michigan Chronicle or Michigan Front Page for an entry form, and describe in 200 words or less, why they or the mother in their life deserves to be mortgage free! The winner will be announced live on both MIX 92.3 & FM 98 WJLB as well as be invited to the brunch. The contest deadline is Wednesday, May 10th. Adding more excitement to the Mother's Day Brunch is Funjet Vacations who will be giving away a 3-day/4-night trip for two to Las Vegas at the event.

Tickets are $60 for adults and $30 for children under 12 for this very special Mother's Day Brunch and can be purchased on-line at www.mix923fm.com or www.fm98wjlb.com. Tickets can also be purchased in person with cash or money order at the WMXD and WJLB studios located in Suite 633 of the Penobscot Building at 645 Griswold Avenue in downtown Detroit.

5th Annual “Women Who Make Magic®” Awards coming to Warren June 12th

The 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner will be held on Monday, June 12th at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom on 14 Mile in Warren.

Jordan Knight, formerly of New Kids on the Block, has been confirmed as the evening's entertainment. As frequent lead vocalist for New Kids On The Block, Jordan Knight toured the world's stages, belting out a pop-R&B rap hybrid that climbed to the Top 20 ten times in half as many years, sparked a revolution in merchandising, and endeared five young men to millions of crazed fans.

Tickets are $35 and may be purchased at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom Box Office in Warren or by calling 586-268-3200. A portion of the ticket sales will go to a Metro Detroit women's charity.

Detroit Free Press:

Time to jump in the Wayback Machine one more time to note the publication of Gordon Castelnero's new softcover, "TV Land -- Detroit" (University of Michigan Press, $22.95). It's the second major recent opus about '50s- and '60s-era Detroit local television, following Tim Kiska's "From Soupy to Nuts!" out last year... Look back at Detroit TV (Mon 5/8)

All Access:

CKLW Vet Dave Shafer Passes:
ALL ACCESS is sorry to report that former CKLW-A (THE BIG 8) DETROIT personality of the 60s, 70s and 80s, DAVE SHAFER has passed away (5/7) from complications with sinus surgery. A mass will be held in his honor at 11a, TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2006 at PRINCE OF PEACE CATHOLIC CHURCH, SUN CITY CENTER, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION. An additional memorial service will be held in on MAY 23rd at LYNCH & SONS, 1368 N. Crooks, CLAWSON, MI. There will be a visitation from 11a-1p, followed by a 1p memorial service. For more info, call (248) 435-0660. Again, in lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION. (Mon 5/8)

Jim Miller Joins MSU Spartans Radio Crew:
As the MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS move to WJR-A/DETROIT for football coverage this FALL, former SPARTANS and pro QB JIM MILLER will join the broadcast crew as color analyst alongside longtime play-by-play voice GEORGE BLAHA. Former SPARTANS center JASON STRAYHORN will serve as sideline reporter for MSU games, and MIKE KAMIN is returning as studio host. The broadcasts will air on WJR and a network of over 30 stations statewide.

'CSX offering up Free Gas Fridays

Classic Rock WCSX-FM (94.7) and the Metro Detroit Ford Dealers have announced a free gas promotion that is scheduled to run each Friday through the summer months.

Each Friday, metro Detroiters already weary of high gas prices can join WCSX as they visit Metro Detroit Ford dealerships each week for a 'Free Gas Friday' party. During each two-hour event, consumers will have a chance to win $100 in free gas every 10 minutes- for a minimum of $1,200 in gas that will be given away at each event. Events are scheduled through September 15th.

This week, folks looking to fill up their tanks should join WCSX at these Free Gas Friday events:

May 12th: 10am to noon- Blackwell Ford at 41001 Plymouth Rd in Plymouth
May 12th: 3pm to 5pm- Bill Brown Ford at 32222 Plymouth Rd in Livonia

The complete schedule of Free Gas Friday parties can be found at www.wcsx.com.

WVMV to broadcast Zonjic's Mother's Day charity concert

Alexander Zonjic's charity concert for the Windsor Downtown Mission will be broadcast by Smooth Jazz WVMV-FM (98.7) on Sunday May 14, Mother's Day, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Segments of the concert will also be available a week later as a podcast. For details visit the radio station's website, www.wvmv.com.

The actual concert takes place the night before. The performance will feature Alexander Zonjic & Friends with special guests guitarist Ken Navarro and vocalist Thornetta Davis . It takes place at the Capitol Theatre in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 13. “The Windsor Downtown Mission does good work and I am especially eager to help out a good cause in my hometown,” said Zonjic. “This is my ten year anniversary concert for the Mission.”

The Windsor Downtown Mission feeds the homeless, offers them spiritual and moral support, provides health care, referrals, clothing and employment support. For more information visit www.downtownmission.com. Tickets are $15 for children, $20 for adults and $45 for preferred seating. Call the Windsor Downtown Mission at (519) 973-5573 or call the Capitol Theatre box office at (519) 253-7729.

WCSX offering podcasts of weekend OverEasy programs

94.7 WCSX matches the mood weekend mornings with the lighter side of Classic Rock on OverEasy, hosted by Pam Rossi. In response to myriad requests, the station is making the first in a series of free OverEasy Podcasts available. These downloads, featuring original music from emerging local musicians, are available at not charge to music fans for download via the WCSX web site at www.wcsx.com.

There are currently five OverEasy Podcasts available, with many more in the works for release in the near future. Each podcast gives listeners around 30 minutes of the music that has made OverEasy a favorite in the Motor City for almost two decades.

WCSX is accepting submissions of music by independent artists who own their material. Complete details on the submission requirements can be found online at www.wcsx.com/overeasy.

WDET documentary explores rise and influence of Arab Media

Detroit Public Radio WDET-FM (101.9) will present a special one-hour documentary, "24/7: The Rise and Influence of Arab Media "on Sunday, May 14 at 6pm. This is a new public radio documentary hosted by David Brancaccio (host and editor of the PBS weekly series "NOW") that examines the dramatic expansion of open media in the Arab world and its impact on the United States, the Middle East and the rest of the world. The dramatic expansion of the open media in the Arab world is changing the political landscape of the region. For better or worse, the Internet and scores of pan-Arab radio stations and satellite television channels are fostering the free flow of information and opinion in ways unthinkable two decades ago. "24/7: The Rise and Influence of Arab Media" looks at this phenomenon with a wide range of political and media experts.

WDET also takes part in a special panel discussion to further explore the issues raised in "24/7" - panelists include WDET reporter Quinn Klinefelter, photographer Antonin Kratochivil, and Ghida Fakhry of Al Jazeera International. The evening also includes the opening for the inaugural showing of the photography exhibit "24/7: The Modern Arab World." The photo exhibition preview and reception is May 18 from 5 to 7pm followed by the presentation and panel discussion from 7 to 9pm. The Arab American National Museum is located at 13624 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn. For information or to RSVP for the event call (313) 624-0200.

Keener13.com:

Another significant page in Detroit radio history turned over the weekend with the passing of Dave Shafer. From his laid back performance as Jack the Bellboy on WJBK, to his long tenure at CKLW, Dave was one of the reassuring voices that many Detroiters turned to for entertainment and information. Dave's son Terry told us that his father's radio career started in Dover, Delaware. From there, he moved south to Tucson, Arizona, where he met future Detroit co-worker Marc Avery. When Avery relocated to the Motor City, he was soon on the phone to his friend enticing him to come along. The station was WJBK... Remebering Dave Shafer

Detroit News:

Former Detroit air personality Dave Shafer, whose voice and name are well-known from his stint as a jock at CKLW-AM (800), died Sunday in Florida of complications from outpatient surgery. He was 73. Shafer was probably best known as one of the original Big 8 jocks during the Windsor station's fabled tenure as the flame-throwing 1960s musical powerhouse of the Midwest. CKLW was big and loud, and the voices like Shafer's that introduced the music were memorable even in the 30 seconds they had in between records... Radio jock helped voice the Big 8 (Tue 5/9)

Detroit Free Press:

WJR did its final Michigan football game more than four months ago. Its last U-M basketball broadcast came more than four weeks ago. While the Detroit radio powerhouse has a secure future hosting Michigan State starting this fall, the Wolverines still are completing their radio landing. Insiders say contracts are nearly complete and will feature a number of unusual components. Still to be decided is who will be the football announcers. At issue is the status of Frank Beckmann, who has done U-M football play-by-play since 1981... Beckmann's status still unresolved (Sun 5/7)

WDIV-TV:

The WJLB promotions vehicle was found on Monday night in pieces. The $68,000 Dodge Magnum was inside a garage on Alcoy Street in northeast Detroit completely stripped down. The doors were removed. Windows were smashed and graffiti was painted over it, Local 4 reported... WJLB vehicle found in pieces (Tue 5/9)

Detroit Free Press:

Can Whoopi Goldberg succeed where, say, David Lee Roth failed? Listen up. Clear Channel and its Premiere Radio Networks arms have signed the comic actress to host "Wake Up With Whoopi," a new weekday morning radio show, starting July 31... Whoopi Goldberg gets radio gig (Wed 5/10)

Detroit News:

Whoopi wants you to 'Wake Up' with her: Whoopi Goldberg has signed a deal with Clear Channel radio to host a live, syndicated morning talk show called "Wake Up With Whoopi." The show debuts July 31; no word yet on if it will air in Detroit... Newsmakers (Wed 5/10)

Good girls buckle up. But guiding children and, especially teens, to goodness, or any responsible behavior -- well, that's tricky. Popular culture often screams louder than parents and teachers. Unlike the 80 percent of teens who, research shows, pay no heed to seat belts or laws governing their use, the students at Mercy High School in Farmington Hills -- 98 percent of them -- are contest-winning bucklers. Or would-be bucklers. Almost the entire student body signed a pledge ("I commit to always wear my seat belt") sponsored by Takata Corp. and WKQI-FM (95.5)... The prize that wasn't: Mercy High School takes a stand (Thu 5/11)

What do you do if you're XM Satellite Radio and you want Bob Dylan to host a radio show? First, you have to track the once-reclusive rock poet down. Figure on spending a few years doing that until you luck out and find an acquaintance of Dylan's business manager. After several years of pelting him with offers, some dialogue ensues, and finally, a deal... Dylan's show is a tribute to radio's past (Thu 5/11)

Radio & Records:

WMXD LSM Jeff Luckoff has been promoted to GSM at Clear Channel/Detroit's Urban AC WMXD & Urban WJLB. Meanwhile, WKQI LSM Allyson Hillman has been named GSM of CHR/Pop WKQI & AC WNIC... Luckoff; Hillman New Clear Channel/Detroit GSMs (Thu 5/11)

WRIF announces 2006 Harleyfest

Amid a sea of rumors that WRIF's annual motorcycle festival has been canceled due to uncertainty at Freedom Hill, the station is pleased to announce the return of the Motor City Harley Davidson Harleyfest! This summer, 101 WRIF, Molson and Motor City Harley-Davidson® will once again join together to celebrate the 8th Annual Harley Fest to benefit the Karmanos Cancer Institute. It all happens on Saturday, June 17th at Freedom Hill in Sterling Heights. Each year, over 25,000 Metro Detroiters come out for a full day of music, bikes and more as the station strives to raise money for a great cause. Over the past seven years HarleyFest helped raise over $260,000 for various charities, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Karmanos Cancer Institute.

The festivities begin on the morning of Saturday, June 17th with a special Harley-Davidson “Ride For Hope” from Motor City Harley-Davidson®, located at 34900 Grand River Ave. in Farmington Hills to Freedom Hill. Last year's ride drew over 1,200 participants spanning several miles and 2006 is gearing up to be even bigger. Sign-up begins at 9am with the ride leaving for Harley Fest at 11am sharp with a police escort. Riders are asked to pay $25 per person to participate in the ride which provides them with a special Harley-Davidson / Karmanos collector's pin, parking fees for Harley Fest and a donation to Karmanos Cancer Institute. For more information on the ride call Motor City Harley-Davidson® at (248) 473-7433.

Harley Fest is an exciting all-day event that will gather Harley-Davidson® fans from all over as they come together to celebrate great music, great food and great bikes. All bikes are welcome as the party kicks off at 11am on Saturday, June 17, 2005 at Freedom Hill Park, located at Metro Parkway and Schoenherr in Sterling Heights. Admission to the festival in the park is always free and will again feature a live music stage featuring some of Detroit's hottest local bands including 50 Cent Headrush, Radiocraft, Government Honey, Redline, Mindcandy, PHX, Brian Schram Band, Inviting the Crash, Dirty Americans, Shipwreck Union, Jocaine and Rockstar. There will also be a “Best of Bike” show for prizes in various categories, a vendor village featuring everything from clothes and jewelry to airbrush artists, lots of delicious food and drink, live auctions featuring autographed memorabilia, a day-long live broadcast by WRIF and much more.

The activities will reach a highlight at 3:30pm as 101 previously qualified WRIF winners will gather to see which one of them will drive away with the ultimate Harley-Davidson® prize….a Harley-Davidson® 1200R Roadster bike and a two year lease on a Ford F-150XLT. The RIFF will be qualifying listeners to win keys for this exciting giveaway on the air, at Harley Fest parties around the city as well as by picking up an entry form at the Harley Fest display at participating Farmer Jack locations.

For more details on Harley Fest 2005 log on to WRIF's website at www.wrif.com.

Detroit Free Press:

Wayne State University-owned public radio station WDET-FM (101.9) is jettisoning four staffers effective June 10. General Manager Michael Coleman said Thursday "the staff became larger than the need to support it." He insisted it was not a direct result of spring fund-raising that raised $432,000, more than the adjusted target of $420,000 but far from the original goal of $600,000... WDET fires 4 as its ratings fall (Fri 5/12)

AllAccess.com:

Live 97.1 Free FM/Detroit, Deminski and Doyle Win "Best" Honors In Paper's Poll
Congratulations to CBS Talk WKRK (LIVE 97.1 FREE FM)/DETROIT for first-place finishes for Best Overall Radio Station and Best Radio Show in the DETROIT NEWS' annual "MICHIGAN'S BEST" readers' poll. JEFF DEMINSKI and BILL DOYLE, the station's afternoon show, took top honors this year behind DOYLE's slightly over-enthusiastic (and occasionally full-contact) "PASSWORD" playing. The paper's poll received votes from over 100,000 MICHIGAN residents. (Fri 5/12)

Detroit Free Press:

Returning: To Metro Traffic's reports on WWJ-AM (950) this Sunday, veteran voice Terry T. Brown with live remotes from Eastern Market as part of the Flower Day festivities ... Performing: Flutist and WVMV-FM (98.7) morning host Alexander Zonjic, in a concert featuring classical music in the first half and smooth jazz in the second half at 8 p.m. Saturday at Christ Church Cranbrook, 470 Church, at Cranbrook and Lone Pine roads in Bloomfield Hills... Names and Faces (Mon 5/15)

Detroit News:

It has been seven months since 50,000-watt WJR dropped its significant radio bomb, announcing it was cutting Michigan football and basketball in order to carry Michigan State football and basketball for the next five years. Officials at Michigan, whose football games had been on WJR since 1976, were shocked by the announcement, claiming they had been dealing in good faith with the management at Detroit's mega-station. Now it appears Michigan's radio deals are falling into place and could be announced sometime this week... U-M scattered on the radio (Tue 5/16)

Radio & Records:

The HD Digital Radio Alliance announced this morning that Los Angeles electronics retailer Ken Crane; Detroit retailer Mickey Shorr; as well as Harvey and Electronics Expo in the Tri-State Area ... All the new campaigns will be similar to those launched by ABC Warehouse, and retailers Tweeters and Crutchfield.com in April, with custom-made commercials running on alliance radio stations... Local, Regional Retailers Debut HD Radio Campaigns, RadioShack Joins National Rollout Of HD Radio Receivers (Mon 5/15)

Clear Channel-owned Rock WDTW-FM (106.7), known as “The Drive,” has dumped the format and the entire air staff in a move that stunned the DJ's at a mandatory meeting today at 11 a.m. VP/Programming Dom Theodore said “it was one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make.” Insiders felt the station was “under-performing” and a change was necessary. At noon, the station ran a pre-recorded announcement from legendary TV news anchor Bill Bonds stating that they were “building a brand new radio station” and letting you, the listeners choose the music. The “stunting” went on for two hours and then at 2 p.m. WDTW-FM began to play a very wide spectrum of music while management figures out exactly what they are going to do on the 106.7 FM frequency. The range is from rap to rock to pop and country. Listeners can vote at www.1067needshelp.com.

This was the most sweeping change at this spot on the dial since the former W-4 Country (WWWW-FM) was changed into a format known as Alice @ 106.7 back on September 1st of 1999. This gave WYCD-FM (99.5) exclusivity in the country music format that it has enjoyed for nearly seven years. Interestingly this is all happening just before this weekends WYCD-sponsored Downtown Hoedown in Hart Plaza. The W-4 call-letters are currently on a station also owned by Clear Channel at 102.9 FM out in Ann Arbor.

There will be much more regarding this abrupt alteration on the local radio dial in the ON THE RADIO column in the feature section of this Sunday's Oakland Press.

Radio & Records:

At noon today, Clear Channel blew up underperforming Classic Rocker WDTW (106.7 The Drive)/Detroit and is currently letting the listeners steer the ship. Hopefully there are no icebergs dead ahead. In a unique re-branding effort, Clear Channel has set up a website... WDTW (The Drive)/Detroit Spins Out, Hits The Wall

Billboard Radio Monitor

Clear Channel classic rock WDTW Detroit is giving listeners the opportunity to restructure the struggling station, which scored a 1.6 share in the Winter 2006 Arbtiron ratings... Classic Rock WDTW Detroit Demands Format Shift?

AllAccess.com

WDTW/Detroit's "The Drive" Is Pulled Over: Who is steering CLEAR CHANNEL Classic Rock/Classic Hits WDTW (106.7 THE DRIVE)/DETROIT? As of this moment apparently it's the listeners. ALL ACCESS hears that the air staff has been let go and the station is stunting with everything from GARTH BROOKS to BARRY MANILOW. The voice of former DETROIT newsman BILL BONDS is instructing listeners to got to www.1067needshelp.com to make requests and "build your own radio station." Speculation points to Country as well as News/Talk, but with BECK currently streaming from the site at press time, anything is possible.

InsideRadio.com

1067NeedsHelp.com... That's the newest website in Detroit radio, as Clear Channel blows up classic rock WDTW (the onetime “Alice”) and stunts with music ranging from Beastie Boys and the Stones to Shania Twain and hometown fave Eminem...

Crain's Detroit Business:

Michael Coleman, general manager of WDET 101.9 FM and former deputy director of Ann Arbor-based Michigan Public Media pleaded no contest Thursday at a pretrial hearing in Ann Arbor to misdemeanor embezzlement of less than $200, according to an employee of Washtenaw County Circuit Court... WDET general manager pleads no contest to misdemeanor embezzlement charge (Thu 5/18)

Detroit News:

The year's fastest-selling artist is neither a bling-sporting rapper nor a scantily clad diva. Rather, that title belongs to male country-pop trio Rascal Flatts, whose fourth album, "Me & My Gang," sold a mighty 722,000 copies its first week in stores last month. The album spent three weeks at No. 1 on Billboard's albums chart, and after six weeks has sold more than 1.4 million copies... Gone country (Wed 5/17)

It's been a while since Detroit Public Radio WDET-FM (101.9 ) could celebrate any good news, but it came last Friday along with the torrential rains: More people listened to WDET this winter than last fall, according to Arbitron. That means the station has more listeners now than before the controversial programming changes put through by station manager Michael Coleman in mid-December... NPR gives WDET-FM a boost (Thu 5/18)

Detroit Free Press:

Lend a helping hand: To WMGC-FM (105.1) afternoon personality Jim Paolucci and his ex-wife Theresa, who is battling liver cancer and associated medical bills. He is throwing a fund-raiser 2-8 p.m. Sunday at the Manhattan Club in Novi ... Tigger lands radio gig: Big Tigger (Darian Morgan), the former WJLB-FM (97.9) morning man who cohosts BET's top-rated "106 & Park," is the inadvertent beneficiary of a tawdry New York urban radio showdown... Names and Faces (Wed 5/17)

Good-bye to the rock hits format that propelled -- oops, wrong word -- WDTW-FM (106.7, The Drive) to a tie for 19th place in the ratings. And in its place, welcome...? Well, promotion-happy Clear Channel Detroit would like to have you think listeners will help them build a station from the ground up... FM 106.7 changing, but to what? (Thu 5/18)

Detroit News:

The head of Detroit's public radio station WDET pleaded no contest Thursday to an embezzlement charge stemming from his former post at Michigan Public Media in Ann Arbor. Michael Coleman made the plea at a pretrial hearing in Ann Arbor, said Kevin Piotrowski, WDET public relations and promotion director. Coleman is charged with one count of misdemeanor embezzlement of at least $1,000 and less than $20,000 for allegedly illegally accepting meals and other perks while he was deputy director of Michigan Public Media, the parent of the University of Michigan's radio and TV stations, including Ann Arbor's WUOM. He left the group last summer to join WDET... Radio executive pleads no contest (Fri 5/19)

It never loses its intrigue and, as a result, the Downtown Hoedown remains one of the biggest free attractions of each summer festival season. "Young Country" WYCD-FM (99.5) presents this year's spectacle, the 24th presentation of the annual event, this weekend at Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit. The lineup includes classic acts such as the Kentucky Headhunters, shooting stars such as Canada's Terri Clark and alt-country rockers the Wrenfields, and rising stars such as Miranda Lambert, Josh Turner and Jack Ingram... Hart Plaza is set for a country collision (Fri 5/19)

Detroit Free Press:

Battle's on for TV awards- The Michigan Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences handed out its nominations for local TV excellence Wednesday night. A full list is at www.mi-nta.org. But among the more interesting contests will be the battle for best investigative report series, where the nominees include Steve Wilson's WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) piece on Detroit first lady Carlita Kilpatrick's election year city-paid SUV lease and Scott Lewis' WJBK-TV (Channel 2) expose of former City Councilman Alonzo Bates... Name and Faces (Fri 5/19)

Country music, afflicted with an epidemic of suburban good manners just a few years ago, is playing rough again. Gretchen Wilson led the let's-get-real rebellion in 2004 with her hit "Redneck Woman," and now airwaves and iPods are crackling with tunes from artists who seem hell-bent on making the polite popsters of a few years back blush and cringe. A rowdy pack of them is heading for this weekend's Downtown Hoedown, a showcase for Music Row's fresh faces since 1983... C'mon down!: This year's Downtown Hoedown singers are rowdy, rough and ready for a good time (Fri 5/19)

Ann Arbor News:

The former second in command at WUOM's parent organization pleaded no contest Thursday to a reduced misdemeanor charge as part of a criminal probe into allegations employees at the popular public radio station misappropriated gifts traded by sponsors in exchange for on-air mentions. Michael Coleman, the former deputy director of the University of Michigan's public radio and television operations, faces up to 93 days in jail and $500 fine when he is sentenced June 22 for embezzlement under $200... Ex WUOM exec enters plea (Fri 5/19)

At 3:00 this afternoon, FM 106.7 Detroit returned to a Country music format, after having abandoned it for nearly 7 years for Rock. Prior to September 1st 1999, country was heard at 106.7 for nearly 20 years- at one point in its history W4 Country was the top rated station overall in Detroit. In June 1993, WYCD-FM 99.5, Young Country, arrived during one the genres peak in popularity and nearly immediately put pressure on W4 in both ratings and revenue. After 6 years, WYCD claimed the crown when W4 abruptly switched to a 'Rock Hits' format titled Alice 106.7.

Despite several tweaks to the rock format on WLLC/WDTW since then, the station never fully caught on with listeners. WDTW-FM placed 19th overall in the winter ratings book with a 1.5 share. WYCD has benefited from a resurgence in the country format - it was tied for 2nd overall in the last book. Owner Clear Channel on Tuesday fired the staff of 'The Drive' and began stunting, asking listeners to vote on the station's new format. The next task for listeners to name the station -- is there much doubt that the new name will be W4 Country?

The WWWW call sign was moved from Detroit to Ann Arbor in October 2000 when FM 102.9 changed its format from rock to country and resurrected the W4 Country name. Both 102.9 and 106.7 are owned by Clear Channel. W4 Country / Ann Arbor was that city's highest-rated commercial music station according the Fall 2005 ratings.

The return to a country format at 106.7 is well timed. This weekend is the Downtown Hoedown, the world's largest country music festival, sponsored now by WYCD but once sponsored by the old W4 Country. You can bet the battle for listeners between the two stations will be on in full force this weekend!

Billboard Radio Monitor

It may be known for the Motown sound, but Detroit has two country stations again. On the heels of a stunt that involved asking listeners what they wanted the new format to be, Clear Channel classic hits WDTW (106.7 the Drive) Detroit flips to country. The station is soliciting a new name from listeners at www.1067needshelp.com, where a stream of the new station can also be heard. Interestingly, former country station WWWW (W4) was heard on the 106.7 FM frequency up until 1999... Detroit gets second country station (Fri 5/19)

Inside Radio

Clear Channel returns country to the 106.7 frequency after more than five years of being "Alice" and then "Drive" - and they're asking listeners to help choose the new call letters for the current WDTW-FM, using the www.1067needshelp.com website... Detroit gets a country battle (Fri 5/19)

Radio and Records:

Clear Channel's Classic Rock WDTW-FM (The Drive)/Detroit flipped to Country at 3pm ET this afternoon. Regional VP/Programming & OM Dom Theodore is directing the transition, with Drive PD John Trapane staying on as interim PD. Trapane's background includes Country radio and records stops at KKBQ/Houston, KILT & KIKK/Houston, Giant/Reprise and Dreamcatcher... Clear Channel/Detroit Flips 106.7 To Country (Fri 5/19)

Detroit Free Press

To the surprise of almost no one in the radio business, Clear Channel's FM 106.7 went to country music at 3 p.m. Friday on the very weekend established CBS country power WYCD-FM (99.5) had its signature sponsorship event, the Downtown Hoedown... FM 106.7? Sounds like country now (Sat 5/20)

Wayne State University appears to be sticking with Michael Coleman, general manager of WDET-FM (101.9), after he pleaded no contest to a reduced embezzlement charge Thursday. "We are looking forward to continuing the momentum we are seeing at WDET under Michael's leadership," Louis Lessem, WSU's interim executive vice president, said in a statement after the court appearance... WDET-FM exec pleads no contest, keeps job (Sat 5/20)

106.7 becomes the Fox

Newly launched country station 106.7 Detroit has taken the name 'The Fox' to identify itself, rejecting the conventional wisdom that suggested a reborn W4 Country at 106.7. Interestingly, 'The Fox' was the name of the last music format on 99.5 before that station switched to news/talk and then to country WYCD-FM in 1993. The person that 'killed the fox' on 99.5 during its stunting in December 1992? Dr. Don Carpenter as 'Cowboy Hugh' . Dr. Don currently holds down mornings on 'YCD and will now have his chance to kill yet another "fox".

DetroitRadioFlashbacks.net has preserved an aircheck of the end of the 'Fox' on 99.5 --
Click here to listen

Before 'The Fox' on 99.5, there was another attempt at a radio station named 'The Fox'. This one was at 93.9 FM in the 1980s when that station attempted to move its Top 40 format from AM 800 but was not allowed to do so by Canadian broadcast authorities. The Fox on 93.9 lasted only a few short weeks, and for only 4 hours each day- 2 each in morning and afternoon drive.

One has to wonder if Clear Channel Detroit has 'outfoxed' itself with this name selection....

Detroit News:

That 1067needshelp.com campaign to pick a new format for the struggling rock station at 106.7 FM ended at 3 p.m. Friday as the station segued from a line of Big & Rich's "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy" into "Hell Yeah (Turn it Up)" by Montgomery Gentry. A voice intoned, "Now the mission is to name your station. Vote to name your new country radio station." Since the Drive used to be country station WWWW-FM years ago, one has to wonder will the Drive's owner, Clear Channel, try to borrow back those call letters from its Ann Arbor station?... WDTW-FM 'The Drive' changes format to country (Mon 5/22)

Detroit Free Press:

Helping out: WDIV-TV Local 4 morning coanchor Rhonda Walker. Walker, who has also established her own program for girls -- Girls into Women through her charity, the Rhonda Walker Foundation ... Moving: Beginning June 3, Lou Perry to Ann Arbor's AirAmerica Liberal Radio Station WLBY-AM (1290) from crosstown WAAM-AM (1600)... Names and Faces (Mon 5/22)

Ann Arbor News:

Sister Ann Shields adjusts a wireless headset and arranges a Bible and a set of notes on a table in front of her. In the next 75 minutes, she'll record five "Food for the Journey'' programs at WDEO (990 AM), the Catholic radio station at Domino's Farms. In late April, Shields recorded program number 3,000. As a Catholic evangelist, she's also traveled around the world, invited to speak at conference after conference. But Shields, 67, calls herself a reluctant evangelist... Radio show part of sister's gentle Catholic evangelism (Mon 5/22)

U-M Football takes over WTKA Ann Arbor for 12-Hour Radiothon June 7

The University of Michigan Football Team will take over Sports Talk WTKA AM 1050 Ann Arbor for a 12-hour Radiothon on Wednesday, June 7th, to raise funds and awareness for the U-M C.S. Mott Children's Hospital's capital campaign.

From 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Michigan coaches, including Head Coach Lloyd Carr, players and former players will host the Radiothon, answering football questions and encouraging people to donate to Mott. The event will also feature medical experts and patients from Mott Hospital. Listeners can pledge that day by calling (734) 302-8100 or visit www.wtka.com to learn more. Pledges of $100 or more will receive an autographed Michigan poster.

Zonjic wins 2 Detroit Music Awards

Jazz flutist Alexander Zonjic won two Detroit Music Awards for Outstanding Jazz Instrumentalist and Outstanding Modern Jazz Artist at the Motor City Music Foundation's awards ceremony on Thursday, May 18th. “It is an honor to be recognized for something I love to do. I get a lot of inspiration from Detroit's enthusiastic audiences and the Motor City's rich music history,” said Zonjic.

In addition to performing 100 concerts a year and serving as artistic director of five summer music festivals, Zonjic is the morning weekday host on Smooth Jazz V.98.7 (WVMV-FM) in Detroit. Zonjic's latest CD is “Seldom Blues,” named for the award-winning jazz supper club he owns with his partners. Zonjic serves as the club's entertainment director.

The Motor City Music Foundation honors Detroit area musicians working on national, regional and local levels and to promote music that is being made in the Detroit metropolitan area. The awards ceremony also featured recognition for other Detroit-based musicians including Alice Cooper, Kem, Eminem, Stevie Wonder, White Stripes and Madonna.

For a complete list of the 2006 Detroit Music Awards, visit their web site at www.detroitmusicawards.com.

WDET enjoys better ratings

Public WDET FM 101.9 has experienced an increase in listeners since it introduced new programming in December 2005. According to The Arbitron Company, which tracks radio listenership, Detroit Public Radio had a net gain of 11,400 listeners from January through March, 2006 compared to the previous rating period of Fall 2005. WDET's audience numbers were also up across other measurements, including Average Quarter Hour (AQH), Time Spent Listening (TSL), and AQH Share.

Listening for National Public Radio's signature news magazines Morning Edition (5-10am) and All Things Considered (4-7pm) increased for every hour those programs air. Other notable increases in audience include the expanded hours of Destination Jazz: The Ed Love Program (10pm -midnight), Weekend Edition Saturday (8-10am), Weekend Edition Sunday (8-10am), and a number of the weekend music programs.

"This latest audience information is encouraging," said Michael Coleman, WDET General Manager. "There was a trend of audience loss with every ratings report for almost two years. The challenge continues to be about how we address that issue while providing programming that serves the community and is financially sustainable. These ratings numbers validate some programming choices we made."

The Winter 2006 Survey (Monday - Sunday / 6am - Midnight / Persons
12yrs +) compared to Fall 2005:

Metro AQH: 8400 (+1100 from Fall 2005)
Metro AQH Share: 1.5 (up from 1.3 in Fall 2005)
Metro Cume: 161,000 (up 11,400 from Fall 2005)
Avg. Time Spent Listening: 6.6 Hours (up ½ hour from Fall 2005)
Source: The Arbitron Company

"Typically it takes a few ratings periods to see any real impact of programming changes," said Allen Mazurek, WDET Program Director. "This period reflects a span of time that only includes our new programming, so seeing these audience increases in this report is very positive."

GM Michael Coleman recently pleaded no contest to embezzlement charges filed against him while working for WUOM-FM 91.7 Ann Arbor, his employer prior to moving to WDET last year. His sentencing in Washtenaw County is scheduled for June 22nd. As part of his plea, Coleman agreed to pay U-M $3,500 in restitution. Penalties for misdemeanor embezzlement can include up to 93 days of jail time and/or up to $500 in fines. WDET also recently announced that it will part ways with six employees, five of them full-time, as of June.

WJR to broadcast live from the 2006 Detroit Regional Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference

News/Talk WJR AM 760 plans to bring live coverage from the 2006 Detroit Regional Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference on June 1st and 2nd. WJR listeners can tune in to hear a Who's Who of guests as Paul W. Smith (5:30am-9am) and Frank Beckmann (9am-11:30am) broadcast live on Thursday, June 1st and Friday, June 2nd from the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.

Then, join Paul W. Smith live as he hosts the "Big Five" on Friday, June 2nd at a special time from 1PM-2:30PM. Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Macomb County Commission Chair Nancy White and Windsor, Ontario Mayor Eddie Francis will participate in this lively, topical, roundtable discussion, surrounding significant issues facing the area.

Mick Collins To Host New Show On WDET

Legendary Detroit Musician To Host Saturday Night Music Program On Detroit Public Radio beginning June 3rd

Detroit Public Radio WDET FM 101.9 will welcome renowned musician Mick Collins to the WDET microphones with a new program, "Night Train," that debuts on Saturday, June 3 from 7pm to 9pm. For music fans worldwide, Collins' work with The Gories, The Dirtbombs and other projects is the epitome of Detroit's rock and roll spirit. Collins brings his expansive knowledge of all genres and eras of music to WDET for the weekly musical journey, "Night Train."

According to Collins, "Using the metaphor of a train journey, the basic idea behind the show is to give listeners four musical 'destinations,' some familiar and others not so familiar, consisting or either a genre or an artist (i.e., 'Tonight's destinations: Exotica, Pere Ubu, Joe Williams, or Roberta Flack'), or a specific place and time (e.g. 'Detroit, 1961', or 'Philadelphia, 1971'), or even a concept ('Freedom Music' or 'Southern big-horn funk bands')."

Collins has been a fan of WDET for decades and credits many WDET music hosts past and present with helping him expand his musical knowledge and interests. His two-hour weekly program "Night Train" (Saturdays 7pm- 9pm) celebrates the long tradition of inspired, one-of-a-kind music programming on Detroit Public Radio.

"When we were looking for a Saturday night host, I thought about WDET's long history of opening its doors to musicians and artists of all types and letting them explore their musical interests in ways thatgo beyond what they do in a recording studio or concert stage," said Allen Mazurek, WDET Program Director. "Because of his musical interests, and given his place in Detroit's music history, Mick's was one of the first names that came to mind."

Radio and Records:

The top 5 stations in for the first Spring radio ratings trend were Urban Adult WMXD, Contemporary Hits WKQI, Country WYCD, News WWJ, and Urban WJLB... Complete 12+ ratings trend

Detroit News:

Evidence of ignorance about the African-American experience, or just plain evidence of ignorance? I lean toward option B, but I'm a suburban white guy. Emery King, the former Channel 4 news anchor who told the story, sees it the other way. King has said virtually nothing publicly since he was bounced by WDIV-TV in March 2005... Ex-WDIV anchor Emery King talks on his own terms (Wed 5/24)

Frank Beckmann's wait is over. He will return as radio play-by-play announcer for Michigan football. Michigan football will be carried on CKLW 800, a Canadian 50,000-watt station, and simultaneously on WOMC 104.3. Details of the deal will be announced today at a news conference. "I am just absolutely thrilled," said Beckman, who has been the radio announcer for the Wolverines since 1981. "How do I phrase these last six months? I've been anxious, on edge, all the things you can think of -- name your adjective -- out of fear I wasn't going to do Michigan football any longer. During the wait, I realized how important Michigan football is to me"... U-M radio deal done; announcers will stay (Thu 5/25)

Detroit Free Press:

Michigan will announce today that Wolverines football will be broadcast simultaneously this fall on WOMC-FM (104.3) and CKLW-AM (800). The school will also keep the longtime team of Frank Beckmann (play-by-play) and Jim Brandstatter (analyst)... WOMC, CKLW will air Michigan football this fall (Thu 5/25)

The good news? The May sweeps period ended at midnight Wednesday. So what set the bar for controversy? Try WXYZ-TV's (Channel 7) Steve Wilson's four-part piece mostly on Warren-based Financial Services of America (FSA). Wilson, with inferences to legal defense muscle that hinders probers, hidden cameras during sales pitches, an interview that was cut short by CEO Richard David James and hyperbole ... The big story of this month's Arbitrend radio ratings report card? Try Clear Channel's hit player WKQI-FM, best known to listeners as Channel 955. Its Mojo in the Morning surged 1.3 points to beat out the longtime age 18-34 demographic leader, Drew Lane and Mike Clark on Greater Media's WRIF... Wilson sweeps up indignation / WKQI gets the gold star this month (Thu 5/25)

A Detroit TV station decided Wednesday morning not to run an ad that strongly criticizes America's unions. The Free Press reported Wednesday that Fox 2 (WJBK-TV) would run the ad during the "Fox 2 News Morning" show. According to Erica Keane, a spokeswoman for Fox television stations in New York, a station representative at Fox had approved the commercial by the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Union Facts, then the general manager at the local Fox affiliate, Jeff Murri, decided against running it Wednesday morning... WJBK-TV doesn't run ad against unions (Thu 5/25)

Ann Arbor News:

It took seven months, but the University of Michigan football team finally found a flagship home on the radio dial. Two of them, actually. Beginning this fall, Michigan's games will be simulcast by the Windsor, Ontario, news-talk station CKLW-AM (800) and Detroit's WOMC-FM (104.3) as part of a four-year contract negotiated by Host Communications, the Michigan athletic department's broadcast partner. Michigan also will retain its veteran announcing team of play-by-play man Frank Beckmann and color analyst Jim Brandstatter... U-M finds 2 homes on the radio dial (Thu 5/25)

Detroit News:

WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) says in documents filed in federal court that it has tried to accommodate the religious beliefs of anchorman Frank Turner, and the station denies it has discriminated against him. To allow Turner to host a religious radio program would be too economically harmful to the station, Channel 7 said in response to a lawsuit filed by Turner... Channel 7 answers discrimination suit (Fri 5/26)

Detroit Free Press:

Here, by key time period, are Detroit results from Nielsen Media Research's May ratings period, which ended Wednesday... Nielsen May TV ratings (Fri 5/26)

Sitting in a radio studio doesn't seem like the most comfortable place for Bill Martin. But considering the past eight months he has had, the Michigan athletic director's wide smile Thursday morning told much more than his words. Just a week after getting approval from the Board of Regents for his Michigan Stadium expansion plan, Martin sat in the WOMC-FM (104.3) Ferndale studios and announced Michigan also had completed a five-year radio pact for its major sports... U-M's Martin pleased with radio deal (Fri 5/26)

Detroit News:

The month isn't over yet, but the local news race is, and the May Sweeps ratings reveal that each local station earned bragging rights of some sort. Let's start with mornings... No clear leader in local news (Mon 5/29)

Detroit Free Press:

Nothing to do today? Wrong. JJ & Lynne's Stone Soup Project, a charity classic car restoration now in its fourth year, is building a Stone Soup Nailhead (named after the custom-built 425 Buick Nailhead engine in the truck) and needs your input. The truck is the first non-car effort for the WCSX-FM (94.7) duo of Jim Johnson and Lynne Woodison... Vote on paint job for charity truck (Mon 5/29)

Proceeds of 5th Annual “Women Who Make Magic®” Awards to benefit HAVEN

The 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner will be held on Monday, June 12th, at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom on 14 Mile in Warren. Doors open at 6:30pm and the event starts at 7pm sharp. Tickets are $35 and may be purchased at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom Box Office in Warren or by calling 586-268-3200. This year's entertainment comes from former New Kids on The Block member, Jordan Knight. The 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards program is sponsored by HAP, Kroger, Wright & Filippis, Gordon Chevrolet, Walsh College and Andiamo Italia in Warren.

A portion of ticket sales for the 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner will go to HAVEN. HAVEN's mission is to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault through treatment and prevention services throughout Oakland County and surrounding communities.

HAVEN was founded in 1975 as the first and only sexual assault counseling center in Oakland County. In 1977 HAVEN broadened services to include domestic violence services. Today all of HAVEN's programs provide specialized, comprehensive services in the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault. HAVEN's support services include: 24 Hour Crisis and Support Line, Residential Program, Advocacy Program, START (Safe Therapeutic Assault Response Team).

In addition to donating money from the ticket sales, there will be a 50/50 auction at the 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner to help raise funds for HAVEN.

WRIF to select one couple to “Get Hitched at Harleyfest” by Penhallow

Active Rock WRIF-FM 101.1 Detroit afternoon drive host for over 35 years, “Big Daddy” Arthur Penhallow, will host a wedding ceremony this summer that one lucky couple will not soon forget: a biker wedding at Motor City Harley Davidson's Harleyfest 2006. Over the next two weeks, WRIF will encourage listeners to sign on to the station's website at www.wrif.com and tell us their love story and why they should be chosen as the couple who will “Get hitched at Harleyfest”.

Their wedding day on June 17th, 2006, will begin with a front of the line spot for their motorcycle(s) in the “Ride for Hope”, benefiting Karmanos Cancer Institute, which will depart from Motor City Harley Davidson at 11am. They will ride with over 1,200 participants to this year's Motor City Harley Davidson Harleyfest at Freedom Hill. After a day of enjoying great live music, food and festivities, the couple will be married amongst a sea of motorcycles, with Arthur Penhallow to preside over their service. In addition, the couple will receive wedding bands, flowers for the ceremony, a photographer and a reception dinner for themselves and 20 friends to take place at Harleyfest. They'll also win a gift voucher for a honeymoon in Las Vegas.

Harley Fest is an all-day event that will gather Harley-Davidson® fans from all over as they come together to celebrate great music, great food and great bikes. All bikes are welcome as the party kicks off at 11am on Saturday, June 17, 2006 at Freedom Hill Park, located at Metro Parkway and Schoenherr in Sterling Heights. Admission to the festival in the park is always free and will again feature a live music stage with some of Detroit's hottest local bands.

For more details on Harley Fest 2006 and the “Get Hitched at Harleyfest” contest, log on to wrif.com.

Lou Perry joins Ann Arbor's WLBY-AM 1290

Beginning June 3rd, Lou Perry joins Ann Arbor's Air America Liberal Radio Station WLBY-AM 1290. Most recently Lou was a highly rated Talk Show Host at cross-town WAAM-AM. Prior radio experience includes WABC-AM Radio, New York and WJR-AM Radio, Detroit. The Saturday program live and local at 9 AM and is focused on the Ann Arbor Area. Special and informative guests that affect life in Washtenaw County. “I call the program Logic Radio; I live for why not -- not, what if", comments Perry. The show will feature local guests, local topics, local laughs and plenty of other local information.

Detroit News:

A man has been arrested for the theft of the WJLB 97.9 FM DaimlerChrysler Magnum. Detroit Police arrested a suspect recently after receiving a tip through Crime Stoppers. The radio station had offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest... Man arrested in the WJLB DCX Magnum theft (Tue 5/30)

All Access:

Trapane Named PD At WDTW: As ALL ACCESS hinted, CLEAR CHANNEL Country WDTW (106.7 THE FOX)/DETROIT has named JOHN TRAPANE as PD. TRAPANE held the same position at the Classic Rock format the station had before flipping to Country earlier this month (5/19). Previously, TRAPANE worked at HOUSTON Country stations KIKK-FM, KILT and KKBQ as well as doing promotion for GIANT and DREAMCATCHER RECORDS in NASHVILLE.

WDTW Looking To Hire: As ALL ACCESS reported last week, CLEAR CHANNEL Classic Hits WDTW/DETROIT changed formats to Country per the listeners requests. Known now as THE NEW 106.7 THE FOX, the station is seeking a full staff. If you are interested send your package to 24765 Halsted Dr. Farmington Hills, MI 48331 or email johntrapane@clearchannel.com. No phone calls please.

Maxine Michaels Exits WGPR/Detroit: WGPR INC. Urban AC WGPR (RHYTHM 107.5)/DETROIT has terminated veteran MOTOR CITY midday air-personality MAXINE MICHAELS, claiming she was unable or refused to follow the format. No official word yet on her replacement.

WRIF's “Drew & Mike” to hold a 3-Point Shot Contest to see the Pistons in Miami for Game 6

Active Rock WRIF-FM's (101.1) morning show hosts Drew & Mike will send one lucky winner and a guest to Miami tomorrow night to watch the Pistons battle the Heat in game 6 of the Eastern Conference playoffs. The morning show duo will give the trip away through a 3-Point shot contest tomorrow at the WRIF studios. Throughout the show today ten listeners will be qualified on-air to join the morning show tomorrow, June 2 at 7am to participate in the contest. The contestant, or their pre-selected “ringer,” who scores the most points in a series of two rounds will leave the station and head directly to the airport for their flight to Miami.

This is the third consecutive year that Drew & Mike have held this contest, with the help of sponsor, Rock Financial, sending listeners to Pistons playoff games in San Antonio, Los Angeles and now Miami. The winner and guest will also receive a blue Pistons “away” jersey to wear at the game. “We intend to throw some blue into the white out in that Miami Crowd”, says Drew Lane, WRIF morning show host.

MIX92.3 and Habitat For Humanity team up to collect home goods for better homes in Detroit

Spring cleaning is here and Habitat For Humanity and Adult Urban WMXD-FM (92.3) are coming together to collect your items! MIX92.3 is helping to restore our community with Habitat for Humanity “ReStore Detroit”. On Saturday, June 3, 2006, join MIX92.3 at Steve's Soul Food, 8443 Grand River, Detroit, as the station broadcasts live from noon-7p.m. collecting gently used home furnishings, air conditioners, appliances, building materials, tool, and any other home goods. All items donated will be re-sold at affordable prices at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore Detroit, in effort to help eliminate sub-standard housing in our community. Habitat for Humanity ReStore Detroit will be on site to collect all donated items and also schedule to pick up large and heavy appliances, and home furnishings. All donated items are tax-deductible. Steve's Soul Food will offer 10% discounts to individuals who make a donation.

It's a united effort to help “ReStore Detroit”... won't you join the effort?

Magic 105.1's 2005-2006 “Teacher of the Year” is Chosen

WMGC-FM / Magic 105.1's “Teacher of the Year” program culminated today with an awards presentation live on the air with Jim Harper & The Magic Morning Show. Every Friday, starting on September 12, 2005, Jim Harper read one letter nominating a special teacher from Metro Detroit to be “Teacher of the Year.” After 38 weeks of nominations, Cathy Keeler of Hazel Park High School was chosen as the winner of the awards program. She was invited to come in as a “finalist” this morning. Little did she know, she was the winner and was awarded $5,000.

Detroit News:

It's either ironic or cosmically fitting that WDET-FM (101.9) 's newest music host, Mick Collins of the Dirtbombs , hasn't listened to a lot of radio in the last few years. "It's not because I don't want to," said Collins with a laugh. "It's not for want of trying, but the antenna on my house blew down, so I can't pick up any radio there at all. And my car has an electrical short so the radio only plays occasionally"... Get ready to ride 'Night Train' (Thu 6/1)

Detroit Free Press:

Next week could provide the next bit of news in the Frank Turner vs. WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) soap opera. When last we tuned in, news anchorman Turner was pursuing an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sanction against the station for refusing to let him out of a contract exclusivity clause that would prohibit him from doing a two-hour weekday religious radio show on WEXL-AM (1340) in line with his avocation as a Christian evangelist... Stay turned for 'As the Anchorman Turn(er)s' (Thu 6/1)

The Opie and Anthony Show to be broadcast 6:00 – 9:00 am

WXYT AM 1270 Detroit today announced the debut of the Opie and Anthony Show beginning Monday, June 5. The three-hour program will be heard in Detroit from 6:00 - 9:00 AM. The new weekday line-up on 1270 XYT will be as follows:

The Opie and Anthony Show from 6:00 – 9:00 AM
Sports Inferno with Mike Valenti and Terry Foster from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Wetzel and The Gator with Yahoo Sports' Dan Wetzel and Scott “The Gator” Anderson from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
The Big Show with Doug Karsch and Art Regner from 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

According to WXYT VP/GM Rich Homberg, “Opie and Anthony are flat out the hottest radio show in the country. The opportunity to bring them to Detroit is huge. This show will be a game-changer for both WXYT and the AM dial.”

“We are thrilled to have this new power hitting line up. Opie and Anthony are one of the best morning radio shows in the country,” said XYT Program Director Dan Zampillo. “They are the perfect lead in to the best sports talk in Detroit.”

Opie (Gregg Hughes) and Anthony (Anthony Cumia) returned to CBS RADIO in April 2006 and can currently be heard on FREE FM stations in New York (92.3 WFNY-FM), Dallas (105.3 KLLI-FM), and Philadelphia (94.1 WYSP-FM), WBCN-FM 104.1 in Boston, 93.7 K-ROCK in Pittsburgh (WRKZ-FM), 92.3 K-ROCK in Cleveland (WXRK-FM) and 103.1 THE BUZZ in West Palm Beach (WPBZ-FM). The Opie and Anthony Show originates from the WFNY-FM studio in New York and a simulcast of the show is also broadcast on XM.

Since October 2004, Opie and Anthony have been heard exclusively on XM. Prior to that, their show was broadcast by more than 20 radio stations across the country, including CBS RADIO's WNEW-FM, the show's flagship station in New York. Hughes and Cumia first teamed up in 1994 hosting an evening program for WBAB-FM in Long Island, N.Y. In early 1995, the duo moved to WAAF-FM in Worcester, Mass., where they began hosting “The Opie and Anthony Show” in the afternoons and became one of the Boston market's most popular radio shows.

John Lund, WXYT's former morning co-host, is no longer with the station.

All Access:

O&A "Virus" Spreads To Detroit, Columbus, Rochester: OPIE AND ANTHONY "spread the virus" with the addition of three more markets on top of the previously-announced WJFK (FREE FM 106.7 WJFK)/WASHINGTON addition: Sports WXYT-A/DETROIT adds the show for mornings, while Alternative WZNE (THE ZONE 94.1)/ROCHESTER (2-5p), and Rock WAZU/COLUMBUS (3-6p) will carry the show on a delayed-tape basis. The three new additions will start O&A on MONDAY (6/5), while WJFK launches the show on JUNE 26. WAZU previously carried the show in its earlier WESTWOOD ONE syndication incarnation before the team was removed from the air over the "SEX FOR SAM" incident. At WXYT, O&A replace JOHN LUND and SCOTT "THE GATOR" ANDERSON in mornings. LUND has reportedly left the station, while ANDERSON will move to a new shift, which LANSINGSPORTSRAGE.COM reports will be 1-4p paired with DAN WETZEL. "THE SPORTS INFERNO" moves up an hour to 9a-1p and "THE BIG SHOW" drops an hour to run 4-7p to make room.

Detroit News:

As of Monday, you won't have to pay XM Satellite Radio to hear shock jocks Opie and Anthony in the morning. In an agreement with XM, four more CBS stations are picking up the three-hour show, including sports station WXYT-AM (1270) in Detroit. Opie and Anthony will debut on WXYT 6-9 a.m. Monday... Opie and Anthony hit Detroit airwaves (Sat 6/3)

Detroit Free Press:

Opie & Anthony, the New York-based radio shock jocks who were banished from terrestrial radio after a stunt involving a couple allegedly having sex in St. Patrick's Cathedral in 2002, continue their amazing career comeback on Detroit radio Monday... Shock jocks land spot on WXYT (Sat 6/3)

The Spartan Podcast - Paul W. Smith & Mike Fezzey

News/Talk WJR-AM (760) Detroit - the Great Voice of the Great Lakes - and Michigan State University are partners again and the reborn partnership is the subject of a Spartan Podcast today.

Morning host Paul W. Smith (5:30 - 9:00 AM) is WJR's most recognized voice and talks about how he always knew from his days growing up in Monroe, Michigan that he wanted to be in radio. He tells us how his WJR career began and how he loves coming to work every day.

WJR president and general manager Mike Fezzey tells us how the WJR/MSU deal came about and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the radio industry.

This Spartan Podcast is hosted by MSU communications manager Russ White.

Hear the Show (18 Minutes, 10 MB mp3): spartanpodcast.com/?p=137

Greater Media's Raphael named among radio's Most Influential Women

Greater Media, Inc. announces Heidi Raphael, Director of Corporate Communication, has been named among the 50 Most Influential Women in Radio by Radio Ink Magazine. The selection process is based on individuals who are making a difference in the radio industry.

“I am honored to be named among such an incredible list of individuals in the broadcasting field. I am extremely grateful to Peter Smyth, Tom Bender and all the wonderful people at Greater Media and the industry at large who I have the privilege of working with on a daily basis,” said Raphael.

Raphael has been with Greater Media for the past ten years. She served as the Marketing Director of legendary active rock station WRIF-FM for five years. Raphael was subsequently promoted to Group Marketing Director and New Business Development Director of Greater Media's Detroit-based properties. She was later promoted to Director of Corporate Communications for Greater Media, Inc. in 2005.

Raphael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Medaille College in Buffalo, New York and Master of Arts degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix. She is a past vice president of American Women in Radio & Television's (AWRT) Nashville-based chapter and is a member of the Broadcast Education Association (BEA).

Detroit Free Press:

Hosting: Michigan Radio, the public radio service of the University of Michigan (WUOM-FM, 91.7) preview screenings of the movie "A Prairie Home Companion" at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids. They're free but open to Michigan Radio members only... Names and Faces (Mon 6/5)

Detroit News:

WXYZ-TV Channel 7's morning news anchor Eric Smith has a new book out. Inspired by "From the Heart," his short segments on various unsung heroes in and around Metro Detroit, Smith wrote a book of the same name for Huron River Press. The book, a best-of-the-best, is cool, but it's the author, a popular TV personality and journalist, who draws you in. A native Detroiter, Smith has been at WXYZ for 44 years. His warm, signature rosy-cheeked smile, snow-white Caesar haircut and pierced ear are all part of his disarming charm... WXYZ's Smith writes 'From the Heart' (Wed 6/7)

We love the '00s. The '90s are nice. The '70s are OK, and '60s music is very good. We love '50s R&B. But '80s music all those synthesizers and bad perms, it's truly a baffling format for anyone who didn't graduate from high school between 1980-89 ... Political office seekers in Washtenaw County can have their message heard, thanks to a WEMU-FM (89.1) feature, "Soapbox Summer," that returns in time for the 2006 primaries ... WDET streaming includes archive- If you forgot to tune in to Mick Collins' new music show "Night Train" on WDET-FM (101.9) last Saturday, you can tune in anytime online at wdetfm .org, where there's not only a live stream, but also an archive of past programs... Sirius revists '80s with best prom song (Thu 6/8)

Detroit Free Press:

The way John Trapane tells it, more than 110,000 e-mails, e-votes and voice mails are doing his job for him. Trapane is the program director of WDTW-FM (106.7), which became Detroit's newest country radio station May 26. He and the Clear Channel Communication ownership say they've relied heavily on e-input from listeners in changing the station from a slumping-in-the-ratings rock hits player... 106.7 FM's new format is listeners' choice (Thu 6/8)

Ann Arbor News:

The yellow-and-white striped hospitality tent outside the WTKA-AM (1050) studios, and yellow balloons - imprinted with the message M Go Blue - tied to the entrance of the building offered clues to what was happening inside. It was Wednesday morning, and WTKA program director Ryan Maguire held a wireless microphone and had just finished conducting an interview in a hallway with Laurie Carr. In the studio, Carr's husband, University of Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr, was busy with hosts Mike Wickett and Dave Shand, catching up with former players who called in to the radiothon... Athletes help net $40,110 on WTKA (Thu 6/8)

Mix 92.3 and Oakland Mall to presents a “Gospel Challenge”

In celebration of Black Music Month, Adult Urban WMXD-FM 92.3 and Oakland Mall are looking for the hottest choirs in the Detroit metro area to participate in the “Gospel Challenge” on Saturday, June 17th at Oakland Mall in Troy. Hosted by Grammy Award winner and host of the #1 rated Sunday morning gospel show, “Rhythm & Praise” Marvin Winans; the challenge is open to choir groups of all ages.

Interested groups must submit their demo CDs or videos to MIX92.3 for pre-selection process by email to WMXDPromotions@clearchannel.com, or by mail or in person at the MIX92.3 Studio, 645 Griswold Avenue, #633, Detroit, Michigan, 48226. Select choir groups will compete, Saturday, June 17th, at Oakland Mall in Center Court, from Noon-2pm, for their chance to win $500 in Oakland Mall gift certificates and other prizes. Special guest judges will include Vanessa Bell Armstrong among others who will determine the winning group of the 2006 “Gospel Challenge”.

Oakland Mall and MIX92.3 are encouraging everyone to come out and take part in celebrating Black Music Month. Patrons will have an opportunity to register to win an Apple iPod, various music CDs, Beans & Cornbread gift certificates, and more.

Eastern Market spices up Detroit with BBQ competition in July

It is the All Star of BBQ...the Homerun of Grilling Knowledge…the Big Daddy of Secret Spices, and the Masters of the Grill. Call it what you may, the Sizzle-N-Sauce BBQ Competition held July 8-9, 2006 will put one out of the park

Save the date for July 8-9, 2006 when over twenty-five contestants will release the sweetest smelling BBQ aromas at the 2nd Annual “Sizzle-N-Sauce” over Eastern Market for three pork, beef, & chicken stuffed days of BBQ heaven, where contestants will eat, sleep, and live to win cash prizes and trophies. Masters of the grill and folks wanting to enjoy the competitors finest BBQ, will descend on Eastern Market July 8 & 9 for a serious competition guaranteed to be seriously fun. Expected attendance at the event promised more than 20,000 BBQ lovers from around the globe who will gather to testify about the tasty delights of special sauces, rubs, ribs, and much more during the weekend.

The Main Stage is set with world-class musical entertainment on both Saturday and Sunday. The outstanding lineup of performers and entertainers will include the R&B sounds of Streetcorner and Larry Lee & Back In The Day, the jazz sounds of The Edge and the all-female group Straight Ahead, a Motown review by Horizon, Blues favorites by Bons Temps Roulle, and a very exciting blues show by Da Blooze Brothers. On-air personalities from both 100.3 WNIC-FM and MIX 92.3-FM will also make appearances during the weekend.

Admission to “Sizzle-N-Sauce” is absolutely FREE and a variety of BBQ menu items will be available for purchase to feed the entire family.

For more information about the event, visit www.sizzlensauce.com or call (248) 324-5424. Limited sponsorship opportunities for this year's event also remain available. Sizzle-N-Sauce sponsors will have amazing contact and sales opportunities at this wonderful and exciting food and entertainment event at Eastern Market.

Zappa featured on WDET on Sunday June 11

The music of Frank Zappa is explored in a conversation with his son Dweezil Zappa on Sunday's (June 11th) Ralph Valdez Program on Public WDET-FM 101.9. The show airs from 10pm - midnight. Dweezil Zappa is touring with ex-Zappa band mates in a show coming to The Meadow Brook Music Festival this week called 'Zappa Plays Zappa'.

Prolific American composer, guitarist, singer, film maker, social critic and satirist Frank Zappa continues to be an important and influential artist even after his death in 1993, with work spanning virtually every musical genre (including avant-garde, big band, blues, contemporary classical, doo-wop, electronic music, funk, hard rock,
jazz, jazz fusion, musique concrète, pop, progressive rock, proto-rap, reggae, rock, ska, and world music), and often noted for his intense blend of high art, low humor, general absurdity and modern vaudeville theatrics.

There will also be tickets given away for the latest multi media performance from Detroit playwright Ron Allen entitled "The Aboriginal Treatment Center,"described as "an examination of the archetypical Black man's mind." As always, other arts and culture information and a wide variety of "rummage sale records", music new and old, from around Detroit and around the world will also be explored.

WDET now offers "music on demand" - a special feature on WDET's website homepage at www.wdetfm.org which allows you to listen to archived shows at your leisure.

Last chance tickets available for WMGC banquet

The 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner is just around the corner! It will be held this Monday, June 12th, at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom on 14 Mile in Warren. Doors open at 6:30pm and the event begins at 7pm sharp. Tickets are still available! They are $35 and may be purchased at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom Box Office in Warren or by calling 586-268-3200. The event is hosted by Adult Contemporary WMGC-FM 105.1 Detroit.

This year's entertainment comes from former New Kids on The Block member, Jordan Knight! Knight, formerly of New Kids on the Block, will be evening's entertainment. A portion of ticket sales for the 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner will go to HAVEN. HAVEN's mission is to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault through treatment and prevention services throughout Oakland County and surrounding communities. HAVEN was founded in 1975 as the first and only sexual assault counseling center in Oakland County. In 1977 HAVEN broadened services to include domestic violence services. Today all of HAVEN's programs provide specialized, comprehensive services in the areas of domestic violence and sexual assault.

In addition to donating money from the ticket sales, there will be a 50/50 auction at the 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards® Banquet and Dinner to help raise funds for HAVEN.

8th Annual V98.7 Smooth Jazzfest set for June 23-25

WVMV-FM's (98.7) 8th Annual Smooth Jazzfest will be held June 23-25 in Southfield, on the Green in front of the Southfield Civic Center (just south of I-696 off of Evergreen).

For a run down of the lineup of artists scheduled to appear, visit the station's web site at www.wvmv.com. Tickets are available at the Southfield Civic Center and all Ticketmaster locations, Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 248-645-6666. Daily Tickets are set for $30/$40 and a weekend pass will go for $75/$105 along with the usual Ticketmaster service charges on each order.

Gates will open at 4:00pm on Friday, 2:30pm on Saturday and Sunday and performances will start approximately 1 hour after the gate opens. Smooth Jazzfest is a rain or shine event and no cans, bottles, liquid or glass containers, coolers, picnic baskets, beach umbrellas, tents, video or sound recording devices, strollers or pets allowed. Concessions will be available at the event. Blankets, tarps and low beach chairs are fine for lawn seating.

MIX92.3 to present “Meeting of the Minds” for the future of our city and children

Adult Urban WMXD-FM (92.3) will present “Meeting of the Minds”, a progressive Town Hall meeting with the Detroit Board of Education, and the community it serves, on Wednesday, June 14th, at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 East Warren, Detroit, Michigan, from 6 - 9 p.m.

Led by MIX92.3's Frankie Darcell, “Meeting of the Minds” is an opportunity for the community to address concerns with the Detroit Public Schools, in an attempt to resolve issues facings our community and the future of our children. Confirmed panelists include: Doctor Jimmy Womack – President of the Board of Education; William Coleman – Superintendent for DPS; Helen Moore – long standing activist for children; Attorney Paula Johnson – Chair of the Contract Procurement Committee; and others. The program will broadcast live from 7 - 8 p.m. on WMXD. Doors open at 5:30 p.m and the Town Hall Meeting is schedued to begin promptly at 6 p.m.

“It's now time for the Detroit Public School and the community to get on one accord to work for the best interest of our children,” said Frankie Darcell, host of MIX92.3's Mid-Day MIX, heard Monday through Friday, from 10a.m. to 3p.m.

Anyone interested in attending must RSVP in advance by emailing FrankieDarcell@clearchannel.com.

Detroit Free Press:

Nominated: WEMU-FM (89.1), Eastern Michigan University's public radio station, as Jazz Station of the Year in a Major Market by JazzWeek Magazine readers ... Scheduled: The Gospel Challenge from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at Oakland Mall in Troy. Hosted by Grammy winner and host of WMXD-FM's (92.3) "Rhythm & Praise" the Rev. Marvin Winans, the challenge is open to choir groups of all ages... Names and Faces (Mon 6/12)

FMQB:

ABC News Radio has added WDRQ (Doug FM)/Detroit to the list of stations now carrying its ABC FM News service ... "We have seen - especially over the past year - how radio is unmatched in its ability to deliver news and information to listeners in times of crisis," said WDRQ PD Ron Harrell. "We are pleased to provide ABC FM News so that FM music listeners in Detroit will have a source for the latest news headlines of the day"... http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=229323 (Mon 6/12)

All Access:

Kat Jensen To Middays At KKMG:
CLEAR CHANNEL Top 40 WKQI (CHANNEL 95-5)/DETROIT weekend/swinger, and former CC Top 40 WVKS/TOLEDO Promotion Dir. KAT JENSEN takes middays at CITADEL Top 40 KKMG (98.9 MAGIC-FM)/COLORADO SPRINGS, beginning JUNE 28th. (Mon 6/12)

Detroit News:

Question Mark says his name is written on Mars. He won't tell how or why, but as any sensible person might suspect, Stephen King had something to do with it. Also as a sensible person might suspect, Question Mark is not your average rock 'n' roll icon. At heart, he is the same kid who put together ?& the Mysterians with four other guys from the Saginaw Valley and recorded one of the best singles ever to hit a turntable... Online radio host is one mysterious Question Mark (Mon 6/12)

Lack of access to quality health care. Failing public schools. A disproportionate number of African Americans incarcerated in America's prisons. These are just a few of the issues confronting many of America's poor and black communities, says PBS talk show host and author Tavis Smiley. On Friday, Smiley will wrap up his five-month, 20-city national "The Covenant with Black America" tour in Detroit at a town hall meeting at Greater Grace Temple... Smiley tour stops in Detroit for town hall (Tue 6/13)

Catholic Social Services to honor Ken Calvert

Classic Rock WCSX-FM 94.7 afternoon host Ken Calvert has been making Detroiters laugh, on and off the air, for more than 25 years but he takes helping the community very seriously. In recognition of his public and personal support, Catholic Social Services of Oakland County will honor Calvert with the Leonard R. Jagels Award at their annual meeting to be held at 6:30 pm in the Dining Hall on the campus of the Orchard Lake Schools on June 21st.

Over the past five years, Calvert has served as emcee and auctioneer at the agency's Spring Gala fund raisers and hosted an event produced by WCSX, “KC's Comedy for a Cause.” His efforts have raised over $50,000 for the agency.

A graduate of Brother Rice High School, Calvert has been a long supporter of Catholic Social Services. In his true comedic style, Calvert had many people to thank, “I would like to start by thanking all the nuns that made grade school fly by. I've often said, for example, that a meeting with my boss or a root canal often seems longer than the third grade. And the priests who recognized my talent as an altar boy and insisted I accompany them to Holy Sepulcher for a graveside service thus forcing me to miss precious classroom time. And I'd be remiss if I didn't thank the Irish Christian Brothers of Brother Rice HS, especially Brother Kelly. The doctors are now confident that I will regain 100% use and feeling of the knuckles on both hands. In all seriousness, this is a great honor and I can assure you that my deceased parents are extremely proud as they look down and I accept this with great humility.”

As the recipient of the Leonard R. Jagels Award, Calvert is being recognized for his commitment to Catholic Social Services' mission: Through its professional services and outreach programs, Catholic Social Services of Oakland County strengthens families, protects children and cares for the elderly, serving all regardless of race or creed. In its 60 year history, the agency has provided counseling services, adoption and foster care, adult day care, programs for pregnant and parenting teens, and outreach to Hispanic families. Len Jagels, for whom the award is named, was the executive director of Catholic Social Services from 1957 to 1983.

WRIF names HarleyFest wedding winners

Jennifer Koski and Tim Cerda of Ferndale have been named the winners of WRIF's “Get Hitched at HarleyFest” contest. Over the course of a two-week campaign, WRIF received a total of 75 online entries from couples hoping to “Get Hitched at HarleyFest.” The entries were narrowed down to 10 finalists, based on their stories. The 10 finalists were then invited to Waterfall Jewelers for the chance to win. Eight total couples showed up and after choosing the package containing the $1,000 gift certificate to Waterfall Jewelers, Jennifer and Tim won the prize.

Jennifer and Tim's prize includes a ceremony at HarleyFest, June 17th at 4:30pm, presided over by WRIF's afternoon drive host, Arthur P, a $1,000 shopping spree at Waterfall Jewelers, flowers for the ceremony, a photographer and a reception dinner for themselves and 20 friends to take place at HarleyFest. They'll also win a gift voucher for a honeymoon in Las Vegas!

HarleyFest is an exciting all-day event that will gather Harley-Davidson® fans from all over as they come together to celebrate great music, great food and great bikes. All bikes are welcome as the party kicks off at 11am on Saturday, June 17, 2006 at Freedom Hill Park, located at Metro Parkway and Schoenherr in Sterling Heights. Admission to the festival in the park is always free and will again feature a live music stage with some of Detroit's hottest local bands including 50 Cent Headrush, Radiocraft, Government Honey, Redline, Mindcandy, PHX, Brian Schram Band, Inviting the Crash, Dirty Americans, Shipwreck Union, Jocaine and Rockstar.

For more details on HarleyFest 2006 and the “Get Hitched at HarleyFest” contest, log on to WRIF's website at www.wrif.com.

Detroit News:

His name is well known to classic rhythm and blues buffs, but Andre Williams, aka the "Black Godfather," has been off the mainstream radar for decades. But his sizzling-hot singles in the '50s were no less than a precursor of rap ... After some initial make-nice comments about respecting the competition, it sounds like Clear Channel's new country station, The Fox, WDTW-FM (106.7), is on the warpath... 'Black Godfather' is alive and well on XM (Thu 6/15)

AllAccess.com:

Dom Theodore Named WKSC/Chicago Programming Consultant:
SHOCKER! CLEAR CHANNEL/CHICAGO Trading Zone RVP/Programming DARREN DAVIS announces that CC/MICHIGAN RVP/Programming and Top 40 WKQI (CHANNEL 95-5)/DETROIT PD DOM THEODORE has been named Programming Consultant for Top 40 WKSC (KISS 103.5)/CHICAGO, replacing STEVE PERUN. THEODORE will work closely with new WKSC PD RICK GILLETTE (NET NEWS 6/13). (Wed 6/14)

WMXD free gas giveaway this morning

Adult Urban WMXD FM 92.3 has given away free gas each summer for the last 3 years, and will do it again this summer. MIX92.3's Free Gas Fridays will kick off this morning, and the station will be doubling the offer. Listeners are encouraged to tune in to The Steve Harvey Morning Show at 7 and 9 a.m. to hear the gas station locations- the first 92 cars to arrive will receive $9.23 worth of free gas.

“This year's increase in gas prices has made this event even more relevant than in years past. Free Gas Fridays is another way MIX92.3 enjoys serving our community,” said Jamillah A. Muhammad, WMXD program director.

Detroit News:

Alternative rock has undergone quite a stylistic transformation since 1991, from the flannels and torn jeans worn by Pearl Jam and Nirvana to the mascara and eyeliner favored by bands such as AFI and the Killers. But through it all, CIMX-FM (88.7) -- known to the masses as 89X -- has been there to chronicle "the best new rock first," as the station's tagline has promised its listeners over the years... Birthday time for 89X! (Fri 6/16)

Ann Arbor News:

A second audit of Michigan Public Media, which was rocked earlier this year by a criminal probe into the actions of three former employees, found no further wrongdoing but uncovered a host of sloppy management practices. In a summary made public this week, University of Michigan auditors faulted Michigan Public Media, the parent organization of public radio station WUOM, for inadequate oversight of its business operations and its "tone at the top.'' "The operation lacks clear operational policies and procedures, and roles and responsibilities have not been sufficiently defined or monitored,'' the audit stated... U-M public media faulted; New audit finds no new wrongdoing, but criticizes management (Fri 6/16)

WYCD'S Grunwald Heads to the Amazon for Haven of Oakland County

On Friday, June 16th, Country WYCD FM's (99.5) Grunwald from the Dr. Don Morning Show headed to the Amazon Jungle in South America to help raise money for Haven of Oakland County. David Hall of Rock Financial offered to send 99.5 WYCD'S Grunwald to several exotic locations with a one-way ticket. WYCD listeners then voted via the station's web site on where to send him. Grunwald will start in Manaus Brazil and then have to beg, borrow, cheat his way back home in time for his air-shift on Friday June 23rd.

For every mile traveled by Grunwald, Haven of Oakland County receives $1.00. So if he travels 3,000 miles, Haven receives $3000 dollars…Courtesy of David Hall & Rock Financial. Grunwald will be equipped with $99.50 in his pocket, a phone & a digital camera so he can document his travels & the listeners can keep track also.

Among many of the charities that Grunwald donates his time for, Haven of Oakland County holds a special place, and is why he is attempting this journey. The sole beneficiary of this great event, Haven of Oakland County is a non Profit organization that helps rid households & the community of violence.

Seger speaks with WCSX about new album

Legendary rocker Bob Seger played in The Ken Calvert Casual Classic Golf Outing earlier today and had a chat on air about his upcoming album "Face the Promise", due to be released on September 12th. It's Seger's first studio album in 11 years and has already created a buzz among fans of the Hall of Fame rocker. The seven minute discussion with Calvert and WCSX midday host Karen Savelly is posted on the station's website for you to download and listen at www.wcsx.com.

Jim Harper & Crew to launch summer at the Detroit Zoo

Soft Rock WMGC-FM Detroit, Magic 105.1, will spend the first official day of summer 2006 at the Detroit Zoo's newest exhibit, The Australian Outback Adventure. This exhibit allows visitors to get an up close and personal view of the Red Kangaroo in their natural habitat. The exhibit trail is lined by 21-inch high cables on each side, which allow the 16 kangaroos to roam free within The Australian Outback Adventure yard.

The event, hosted by Jim Harper & The entire Magic Morning Show, officially takes place from noon to 2pm on Wednesday, June 21st and is open to the public. The Detroit Zoo is open from 10am to 5pm daily. The first 150 kids who “jump” into the Magic 105.1FM “Kangaroo Kid Zone” will receive a very special limited edition Detroit Zoo/Magic 105.1 t-shirt. In addition, parents who attend will receive a free “Bloomin' Onion” gift certificate good at all Metro Detroit Outback Steakhouses (while supplies last).

But "mate", there's more! Metro Detroit kids will want to “jump” into the fun in the “Kangaroo Kids Zone” activities area, featuring the popular Magic Game Show and hosted by Jim Harper & The entire Magic Morning Show. Kids will play for fun prizes like outback hats as they're asked Zoo related questions. What Kid Doesn't Like to Color? Magic 105.1FM will provide kangaroo pictures and crayons for kids to color. They will then be featured on display in the designated Magic 105.1FM area. Two face painters will also be on hand to put cute kangaroos on all kids' cheeks. On the way out… after this fun-filled two hours, kids and parents will be encouraged to sign up to win a fabulous dinner for their family at the Outback Steakhouse.

Admission to the Detroit Zoo is $11.00 for adults ages 13 years to 61 years old; $7.00 for children ages 2 to 12 years old; $9.00 for seniors ages 62 years and older and free for children under 2 years old. Parking is $5.00 for cars/vans and $8.00 for buses.

Detroit News:

When their identity has been stolen, the rental car company overcharges them or the landscaper runs off with their money, Metro Detroiters turn to the Call Bill for Action Team. You see the fruits of his labor weeknights on the 5 p.m. WXYZ (Channel 7) news. But standing in the shadows behind the consumer advocate is a team of about 50 volunteers who answer the telephones and make calls to solve lingering problems... Got a problem? Bill's your man (Mon 6/19)

Detroit Free Press:

Here's another twist in WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) news anchor Frank Turner's attempt to launch a radio career as a weekday evangelist despite exclusivity clauses in his TV contract that Channel 7 maintains prohibit such activity. Turner attorney Jeffrey Wilson filed a request for a preliminary injunction in U.S. District Court late Friday to allow Turner to proceed with a 9:30 a.m.-noon weekday show on WEXL-AM (1340)... Channel 7's Turner seeks injunction so he can proceed with radio show (Tue 6/20)

Flint Journal:

With its varying styles, alternative music has often been difficult to categorize, but it usually depicts music that is south of the mainstream. For 15 years, Windsor-based CIMX-FM (88.7), better known as 89X, has helped develop some of today's largest rock acts by giving them their first bits of airplay. It was no surprise, then, that the station's celebrated its independent spirit Sunday at the 15th annual 89X Birthday Bash by featuring many of those artists on stages at Detroit's State Theatre, Fox Theatre and an outdoor stage on Woodward Avenue... 89X's 15th birthday show bigger, better (Mon 6/19)

WDFN giving away gasoline

Sports WDFN AM (1130) is doing its part to ease the pinch at the pump with its Free Gas Frenzy. During the months of June, July, and August WDFN will hook up one lucky person with free gas for a month.

During the last two weeks of each month WDFN will encourage listeners to qualify both on-air and in person at nine Red Wing Shoes stores throughout Metro Detroit. Registering is easy...all you have to do is listen Monday through Friday to Jamie & Brady from 6 to 9am, Sean Baligian from 9a to 12p and Stoney & Wojo from 3 to 6pm for the cue to call and be the 11th caller at 313-298-1130 to qualify or go into any Red Wing Shoes store and fill out an entry form.

Free gas qualifiers will be put in a grand prize drawing at the end of each month where one person will win free gas for a month valued at $500. The grand prize winners will be announced live on the air. Runner up winners will also win free gas…literally…when they walk away with cans of beans and more.

Detroit Free Press:

The Big Ten will announce today that it is about to enter into the television business, forming its own network that will launch in 2007. The Chicago Tribune, citing anonymous sources, reported the conference also will announce the ABC/ESPN family will remain the exclusive carrier of some of its signature events. The current deal, set to expire in June 2007, is said to be worth up to $50 million per year. That means ABC/ESPN will continue to get all the choicest cuts like Michigan-Ohio State football... Big Ten forms TV network (Wed 6/21)

They handed out the local Emmys the other evening in Novi. And because the local academy charges for entries and some stations subsidize those efforts while others don't, it's not exactly a totally fair measure of local TV excellence. That said, here's who got statues in some of the high-visibility categories... And the Emmy's go to... (Wed 6/21)

Detroit News:

It looks like WWJ-TV Channel 62 has its mind on fashion. The local CBS affiliate is kicking off a new series called "Eye on Style" that debuts this weekend. The show is slated to give Metro Detroiters an inside look at fashion, beauty, fitness and the area's most talked about events. Interviews with local stylists, designers and personal trainers are supposed to provide viewers with tips on the latest trends, including what's hot in cities such as New York and Los Angeles... WWJ-TV has its 'Eye on Style' (Wed 6/21)

MLive.com/AP:

The Big Ten Conference will create its own cable channel to showcase its athletic and academic programs and has reached new broadcast and cable deals with ABC Sports and ESPN, the conference announced Wednesday. The new channel — which will be created in partnership with Fox Cable Networks — is expected to launch in August 2007, the Park Ridge, Ill.-based league said in a news release. The league also announced it has reached a new 10-year agreement with ABC and ESPN for coverage of football, men's and women's basketball and volleyball... Big Ten announces new TV contract, creation of new cable channel (Wed 6/21)

Radio & Records:

Spring Phase II ratings (Wed 6/21)

Detroit News:

If you want to hear the Dixie Chicks, don't tune in to Detroit's new station, the Fox -- WDTW-FM (106.7). The Clear Channel-owned station, which "chose" its new country format by polling listeners, won't be playing the Dixie Chicks' new album "Taking the Long Way" -- the No. 2 album in the United States this week, according to Billboard -- after conducting a poll. Well, actually two polls. The Dixie Chicks drew flak last year when lead singer Natalie Maines criticized President Bush and the war in Iraq from a stage in London. WDTW program director John Trapane explains that he'd been getting hammered with e-mails from both Dixie Chicks fans and foes, and he decided to do something about it... Dixie Chicks get boot from country station (Thu 6/22)

Alexander Zonjic is a busy guy. The jazz and classical flutist performs frequently in the metro area, records under the Telarc label, is the artistic director for five major local music festivals, and is the morning host at Smooth Jazz WVMV-FM (V98.7). But that's not all, folks. Zonjic also is a partner in Seldom Blues restaurant, along with Frank Taylor, Jerry Nottage and Robert Porcher... Get to know: Alexander Zonjic (Thu 6/22)

The Big Ten has hatched a ground-breaking approach to nationally televising its intercollegiate athletic contests while maintaining a strong tie with two networks -- ABC and ESPN -- that have such a stranglehold in sports broadcasting. Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany unveiled on Wednesday a 20-year agreement with Fox Cable Networks to launch a 24-hour Big Ten Channel that will carry a number of football and men's basketball games beginning in August 2007. It also will carry nonrevenue sports, coaches shows and nonsports programming... Big Ten announces it own cable channel (Thu 6/22)

Detroit Free Press:

One of the bigger stories of Wednesday's Arbitrend monthly report card on metro-area radio listening may be at the bottom of the top 20. Sports-talker WXYT-AM slipped back into the top 20, largely on the power of its 3.3 score among all listeners for 7 p.m.-midnight, mostly for Tigers baseball... Tigers fever heats up local radio ratings (Thu 6/22)

The Big Ten sent ripple through college sports Wednesday. The conference announced its plans to create a nationally distributed television network, as well as a 10-year extension with ABC/ESPN to air football and men's basketball games. "It is a destination for Big Ten fans throughout the country," conference commissioner Jim Delany said of the new channel... TV channel will be 'destination' for Big Ten fans (Thu 6/22)

WCSX To Spotlight Local Talent

Continuing a commitment to local music, Classic Rock 94.7 WCSX is proud to offer local bands and musicians the opportunity to perform during The GM Renaissance Center's Rockin' on the Riverfront free concert series.

This summer long series takes place on the scenic Riverfront Plaza located on the Detroit River behind the Renaissance Center on Friday afternoons and evenings through August 18th. Performers in this amazing concert line up include Dickey Betts & Great Southern and The Romantics.

Right now, WCSX is accepting submissions from local bands for possible inclusion in the series. Musicians selected will perform 45 minute sets and be included on the WCSX web site (www.wcsx.com), press releases and event communications distributed throughout the GM Renaissance Center.

Submissions for consideration will be accepted via email at feedback@wcsx.com and at

94.7 WCSX
Local Band Search
One Radio Plaza
Ferndale Michigan 48220

Please include CD or mp3, bio, references and contact information.

Detroit Free Press:

A former public radio director was sentenced to probation Thursday for his part in an embezzlement scandal that shook the University of Michigan's stations this year. Michael Coleman, former deputy director at U-M's public radio and television stations, including WUOM-FM (91.7), was sentenced in Washtenaw County Circuit Court to 2 years' probation and ordered to pay $3,500 in restitution... Radio exec gets probation (Fri 6/23)

Ann Arbor News:

Michael Coleman, former deputy director of Michigan Public Media, was sentenced to probation Thursday for his involvement in an embezzlement case that shook up management of the public radio and television stations operated by the University of Michigan. In Washtenaw County Circuit Court Thursday, Coleman, 40, of Ypsilanti Township, was placed on two years of probation and must pay $3,500 in restitution to his former employer for misusing in-kind trade agreements... Ex-media official gets probation (Fri 6/23)

MLive.com/AP:

A judge on Friday scheduled a Sept. 13 trial for a man charged with shooting a former employee of television station WDIV in the entryway to the NBC affiliate's downtown office. Epifanio Rivas Jr., 27, of Detroit, is charged with assault with intent to murder, assault with intent to cause great bodily harm, felonious assault and using a gun in a felony in the April 15, 2005, shooting of John Owens... Trial date set in Detroit TV station shooting (Fri 6/23)

WJR, WWJ make staff changes

All News WWJ AM 950 has released overnight anchor Brad Bianchi. According to the Detroit Free Press, Bianchi may have been let go because of unauthorized airing of commercials.

News-Talk WJR AM 760 has dropped weekend home improvement guru Murray Gula from the lineup.

Detroit News:

WJBK-TV ( Channel 2) and FSN Detroit reigned supreme at the Michigan Emmy Awards this year. The Michigan Chapter of the National Association of Television Arts and Sciences bestowed WJBK with 13 Emmys and FSN Detroit with nine earlier this month. WJBK got nods in the Investigative Reports Single Story and Arts and Entertainment categories, among others, while FSN Detroit's Emmys included ones for Station Excellence, Sports News Feature and Sports Program Feature Segment. WDIV-TV (Channel 4) grabbed eight Emmys, and WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) won seven... WJBK-TV, FSN rule with Emmy wins (Wed 6/28)

Detroit Free Press:

Oh, my. Radio know-it-all Rush Limbaugh's (noon-3 p.m. weekdays WJR-AM, 760) deal could be in trouble with prosecutors in a long-running prescription fraud case after authorities found a bottle of the erectile dysfunction drug Viagra in his bag at Palm Beach International Airport. Why? The prescription was not in his name ... Paul W. Smith will sit in for Limbaugh Monday... Viagra bust could imperil plea deal (Wed 6/28)

Radio & Records:

WRCL/Flint, MI Promotions Director/afternoon jock Ced Lover heads to Radio One/Detroit's Marketing & Promotions Department... Street Talk (Wed 6/28)