Recently in Metro Detroit Category

AllAccess.com:

ALL ACCESS hears that CBS RADIO News WWJ-A/DETROIT PD GEORGEANN HERBERT has resigned from the station to launch her own business involving music. HERBERT's resume includes stops as OM at CBS RADIO News WBBM-A and the old Talk WMAQ-A/CHICAGO and reporter/producer/ND positions at WCHV-A and WWWV/CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA; WFIR-A and WPVR/ROANOKE; WRVA-A/RICHMOND; and WTAR-A and WLTY/NORFOLK. HERBERT's resignation will be effective MARCH 31st... Georgeann Herbert To Exit WWJ-A/Detroit (Fri, 3/12)

The other shoe drops in the previously-announced move of EDUCATIONAL MEDIA FOUNDATION's FM translator K279AZ/COTTAGE GROVE, MN to downtown MINNEAPOLIS, with the filing of a contract to swap the facility to CLEAR CHANNEL's AMFM BROADCASTING LICENSES, LLC in exchange for programming rights to the HD-2 multicast channel of CC's Urban AC WMXD (MIX 92.3)/DETROIT... Swap Gives CC Twin Cities Translator (Fri, 3/12)

The date has been set and preparations are being made for what promises to be THE must-attend media event in Detroit for the year 2010! A cast of half a dozen people who organized the last such gathering in 2005 have re-assembled and are planning a LAST BLAST Detroit Radio Reunion for Saturday September 25th. The exact location is being currently decided, but will likely be in the Novi area. The 2005 and 1998 events were at the Hilton (turned Sheraton) Hotel at 8 Mile and Haggerty in Novi.

A number of milestones are occurring this year. Among them are Specs Howard celebrating 40 years of the famous broadcasting school, now with the emphasis on the media arts. Hot and heavy rumors have also been circulating of a possible WSHJ-FM reunion of alumni from the famous Southfield High School station at 88.3. Radio Reunion organizers are hoping that gathering can be slated for Friday night the 24th so WSHJ staffers coming in for the Radio Reunion can attend the both events. In a tight economy, it just makes sense to schedule such gatherings on the same weekend so attendees only have to make one trip instead of two.

Organizers are planning to honor at least 3 people at the Detroit Radio Reunion: Dick Purtan, Specs Howard, and Sonny Eliot. Purtan, for his 45 years of entertaining us at WKNR, WXYZ, CKLW, WCZY/WKQI and WOMC. Howard, for his 40 years of running the famed school that bears his name in Southfield. Finally, Sonny Eliot who (later this year) celebrates his 90th birthday still doing weather on WWJ, which also turns 90 years old in August as the first station on the air in the USA.

The last Detroit radio reunion was held in late September of 2005, and although it drew just over 300, a number of people missed it for a variety of reasons, not the least of which was Hurricane Rita headed for the Texas coast. This year we are hoping for good weather and a great chance for hundreds of radio folks to come together one last time for a "group hug." According to our records, since the last get-together we've lost over 22 more of our friends. So, we thought we'd better hurry.

The reunion committee includes; Mike Seltzer, Millie Coffey, Jo-Jo Shutty-MacGregor, Terry Holmes, Dick Kernen, and Art Vuolo.

If you ever worked in any capacity at any station in southeastern Michigan or surrounding areas, please get in touch with Art Vuolo at artvuolo@aol.com so we can make sure that you're on the roster of those attending.

Since there is never enough time to visit at such affairs, an after-glow birthday party is also being planned by Art for the day after. So things should be hopping Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It will be a trifecta weekend for everyone! Please spread the word, via phone, e-mail, regular mail, Facebook, Twitter or smoke signals to anyone you feel should be at this event!

Keep watching DetroitRadioReunion.com for more information!

Community-targeted Politics & Life show shifts to WGPR

The Politics and Life talk Show, which began in 2008 on AM 1500 WLQV, has moved to FM on WGPR 107.5 where it is now heard Saturdays at Noon. Host and owner of the show Nina Calahan-James made her debut on WGPR along with political analyst/co-host Dalton Roberson Jr. on March 6th.

In 60 days, Calahan-James has expectations to increase the program to 2 hours from it's current 60 minutes. The program is a supported by volunteers and independently financed as a community out-reach on air production which was designed to enhance listeners knowledge of government, politics, and issues that impact daily living as well as motivating citizens to make better informed decisions. The talk show presents an innovative vibrant freshness of interviewing national and local political leaders.

Calahan-James has created three segments just for Detroit Public Schools students to participate in. A regular segment on the show, The Honor Student Showcase, will be hosted by Dexter Perry, Taylor Trammell, and Laniesha Evans, three seniors at Mumford High School along with Dustin Morris, a Journalism & Debate Club member from Cass Tech. The female students have been participating in the Detroit Free Press High School Journalism Program for two years. Trammell is the editor-in-chief and Evans is the managing editor of their high school paper, the Mumford Times. The Talk Show Honor Student Showcase program is open for two more teens to join the team.

On the new WGPR 107.5, the Politics & Life Talk show will create two new segments for the high school students. This first segment, the ABC's Accomplishments of Black Creativity will be hosted by Mumford senior Taylor Trammell. The second segment, 1000 DCD or 1000 Days to Change Detroit, will be co-hosted by high school senior student Dexter Perry, featuring Detroit City Council Members and Charter Commission members who will appear on the show. All students will present reports that are factual and informational as it relates to government, politics and the world in which they live. Students prepared for their radio debut by recording commercials which aired this week and recording segments at WGPR.

Reginald 'Reggie' Davis, a popular radio personality on Detroit's 102.7 WHTD-FM and now a Detroit Charter Commissioner, is currently negotiating with executive producer Calahan-James to join the talk show team and host a weekly segment related to the Detroit community life.

Check out previous versions of the program at http://www.PoliticsandLifeTalkShow.com.

Low power AM station on the air in Hamtramck

A new Part 15, low power, non-commercial AM radio station is broadcasting on 1610 from Hamtramck. Known as 'The Station', the stated mission "is to play, promote, and export Michigan music to the people of Earth."

Outside of the limited over-the-air listening range, tune in via the The Station's web site: station.hamtramckstar.com.

Detroit Free Press:

Fifty years ago Friday -- it was a wintry day in Detroit, with temperatures in the 20s -- fans for the first time heard Ernie Harwell describe Tigers baseball in his soft Southern drawl. At 1:25 p.m. on March 12, 1960, if you tuned to WWJ-AM (950) or WKMH-AM (1310), you would have caught the opening game of the Grapefruit League season from Lakeland, Fla. In the broadcast booth at Henley Field that day were Harwell, partner George Kell and engineer Howard Stitzel... Ernie's first call with Tigers hits 50 (Thu, 3/11)

Crain's Detroit Business:

Detroit Public Television mined little-known family foundations as part of its strategy to close out its recent $22 million capital campaign. "In addition to the larger foundations, we had to go to the indigenous population of family foundations, largely unknown," said WTVS-Channel 56 board Chairman Richard Rassel, who is director of global client relations at Detroit-based law firm Butzel Long P.C. Clover Technology L.L.C. founder George Riley, whose family foundation committed $5 million to Channel 56 and sold it its new, production-ready headquarters in Wixom, "is typical of that family foundation donor base that we all need to look at more closely as we go forward in these challenging times," Rassel said... Detroit Public Television tapped all sources for capital campaign (Tue, 3/9)

Detroit Free Press:

Oscar night was a big deal for ABC, whose telecast of the 82nd Annual Academy Awards drew some encouraging numbers. The biggest night in movies, hosted by Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin, drew 41.3 million total viewers to the Alphabet Network on Sunday. It was the largest audience since 2005, the year Clint Eastwood's "Million Dollar Baby" was the big winner, according to the Nielsen folks. Locally, WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) also had its biggest Oscar numbers in five years. About 927,000 metro Detroit viewers tuned in to watch Kathryn Bigelow become the first woman to win the best director prize... Oscars draw big ratings (Tue, 3/9)

Toledo radio watchers wait for changes to AM 1560, FM 100.9

In a story that's been excruciatingly slow to finalize, there have been some recent developments in a station swap between religious broadcaster CSN and Cumulus Media. Moving from Cumulus to CSN is AM daytimer WTOD 1560, which will replace CSN's FM translator that was heard on FM 100.7. That translator is now off the air, but is expected back on the air soon at FM 100.9. There's no certainty among radio watchers in Toledo as to what Cumulus will be airing on the translator ... speculation is either it will become part of 'The Ticket' (FM 106.5 / AM 1470) or rebroadcast 106.5's HD2 'The Zone' alternative rock format.

88.1 WBFH's Randy Carr recognized

The Board of Education of the Bloomfield Hills School District presented Randy Carr with the Support Staff Recognition Award at their regular meeting March 4 at the Gary M. Doyle Center in Bloomfield Hills. Carr is the Assistant Station Manager and Technical Director of the school district radio station WBFH 88.1 FM, also known as The Biff.

Candidates for this award must be nominated by at least two individuals, citing the exceptional personal qualities and work characteristics that make the person an outstanding employee who has made positive contributions to the District.

Carr has been the Assistant Station Manager at WBFH for 10 years. Before that, he worked in commercial radio for 30 years as an air personality and broadcast engineer at the following stations: WYCD, WKQI, WCZY, WAAM, WTKA, WCAR, WCXI and WVMO.

Carr supervises the station from 1-9 p.m. each school day. During that time, he assists the radio students as they perform on the air during their shows. He assists students when recording productions which air on the station. As Technical Director, he makes sure the hardware and software are working properly.

As a member of the WBFH management team with Station Manager Pete Bowers and Program Director/Remote Supervisor Ron Wittebols, Carr has helped make The Biff a well respected program in the state and the nation. WBFH was recently named the Michigan Association of Broadcasters 2010 High School Station of the Year, the sixth time in eight years receiving that honor. WBFH also has been named the Best High School Station in a national competition three times in the last four years.

Detroit News:

Carl Nielbock was a stranger in a new land. Listening to legendary radio personality Martha Jean "The Queen" Steinberg helped him persevere. The 24-year-old moved from Germany in 1984 to meet his father and connect with his African-American roots. Nielbock, whose mother is white and father is black, settled on the east side with his father. Their day began, like so many others in Detroit, by listening to Steinberg's radio show. "She was very inspirational. She eloquently explained the situation we find ourselves in," said Nielbock, 50. "She talked about how you can overcome problems and that you can make it despite all the adversity." Nielbock, an ironworks artisan, has worked since Steinberg's death in 2000 to honor her with a 16-foot statue on Belle Isle. He met with her daughters, Sandra and Trienere, last week to discuss efforts to raise $300,000 to complete the project... Building on legacy of Martha Jean 'The Queen' (Sat, 3/6)

AllAccess.com:

CLEAR CHANNEL Rhythmic AC WDTW (106.7 THE BEAT)/DETROIT has announced its 2010 SPRING BEATRAVE. The APRIL 24th show features STEVIE B., LISA LISA, C+C MUSIC FACTORY featuring FREEDOM WILLIAMS, ROB BASE, THE COVER GIRLS and SHANNON... BeatRave Set At 106.7 The Beat Of Detroit (Fri, 3/5)

Michigan Radio named Public Radio Station of the Year

Michigan Radio, the public radio service from the University of Michigan, has been named Public Radio Station of the Year for 2009 by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB). The award was announced Wednesday evening at the MAB's annual Great Lakes Broadcasting Conference in Lansing. This is the eighth time in nine years that Michigan Radio has been named Public Radio Station of the Year.

The Station of the Year recognition is based on total points that a station receives in various judging categories. Michigan Radio was recognized as Station of the Year in Group 2, which is for public radio stations with more than $2 million budget.

In addition to the Station of the Year award, Michigan Radio received a total of fourteen Broadcast Excellence Awards, including eight Best in Category awards and six Merit awards.

The ratings for Detroit NBC affiliate WDIV-TV Ch. 4's news and Olympics broadcasts beat the top ten markets nationwide and the station won handily in early evening news at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., late news at 11 p.m., and primetime coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics in the February 2010 Nielsen ratings period of the Detroit television market.

Local 4 News at 5 p.m. garnered an 8.3 household rating (RTG) and a 17 share (SHR) in the 5-6 p.m. time period (compared to WXYZ 6.7 RTG, 14 SHR and WJBK 5.2 RTG, 11 SHR). Local 4 News at 5 p.m. registered a significant growth of nearly 20% in household ratings over the previous year.

In the 6-6:30 p.m. time period, Local 4 News at 6 p.m. finished #1 in household ratings scoring a 10.1 household rating and an 19 share (compared to WXYZ 6.3 RTG, 12 SHR and WJBK 4.5 RTG, 9 SHR). In addition, Local 4 News at 6 p.m. won in the key demo market of adults ages 25-54. This signifies a 25% ratings growth over the previous year, while competitor WXYZ is down 6% household ratings year to year.

Local 4 News at 11 p.m., the perennial powerhouse of late news anchored by Carmen Harlan, Devin Scillian, Chuck Gaidica and Bernie Smilovitz, dominated all local newscasts with the highest ratings of news on any station, in any time-period. In February 2010, Local 4 News at 11 p.m. garnered a 10.3 household rating and a 19 share. (compared to WXYZ 7.4 RTG, 14 SHR, WJBK 10pm 7.8 RTG, 12 SHR, and WJBK 11pm M-F 4.9 RTG, 9 SHR). Local 4 News at 11 p.m. was the only late news to demonstrate growth, up another 17% in household ratings over the previous year. In addition, Local 4 News at 11 p.m. beat the late newscast of all NBC affiliates in the top 10 markets nationwide.

From the Opening Ceremony of 2010 Winter Olympics and throughout the 16 days of intense competition in Vancouver, WDIV averaged a 15.7 in household ratings and a 25 share (compared head-to-head to primetime programming on WXYZ 7.0 RTG, 11 SHR and WJBK 5.3 RTG, 8 SHR), up 35% in primetime household ratings and 39% in share over the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.

On Friday, February 12, WDIV's broadcast of the 2010 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony garnered a 21.1 household rating (RTG) and an 34 share (SHR) in the 7:30 p.m.-12:15 a.m. time period, up 34% from the 2008 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony in Beijing (15.7 HH RTG, 30 SHR), and up 76% in household rating from the 2006 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony in Turin (12.0 HH RTG, 20 SHR).

On Wednesday, February 17, as snowboarder Shaun White, speed skater Shani Davis and downhill skier Lindsey Vonn brought home Gold Medals for the U.S. team, WDIV garnered a 20.6 household rating and a 32 share, ranking #1 for household ratings over all NBC affiliates in the top ten markets nationwide.

In addition, on Sunday, February 28, while Team USA battled Team Canada, WDIV's broadcast of the Men's Hockey Gold Medal game finished just shy of Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins.

The WDIV programming lineup in other dayparts also fared well. The Ellen Degeneres Show (10-11 a.m.) was #1 and continues to lead in all key demographics. In the 4-5 p.m. time period, Local 4 News at 4 p.m. followed by Inside Edition with Deborah Norville virtually tied WXYZ's Oprah in households. And in the time period of 7-8 p.m., Wheel Of Fortune (11.2 HH RTG, 20 SHR) and Jeopardy (9.9 HH RTG, 17 SHR) are the top-rated shows, and continue to experience growth, up 14% in household ratings from the previous year.

Also in February, ClickOnDetroit.com, WDIV's local and national news, weather, sports and entertainment website, scored over 22.4 million page views, setting an all time record for page views in the month of February.

97.1 The Ticket to host free SportsFest on March 20

WXYT-FM 97.1 The Ticket, will present the "97.1 The Ticket SportsFest" - the ultimate metro Detroit sports fan appreciation event on Saturday, March 20 at The Rock Financial Showplace from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.. Admission is free. Parking is $5 per car. Details can be found at www.971theticket.com.

SportsFest will bring together fans and activities related to all four major local sports teams for a fun filled interactive day for sports lovers and families. 97.1 The Ticket, which can be heard on-air, online at www.971theticket.com and through mobile devices, will broadcast live from SportsFest beginning at 10 a.m. The event will showcase premier areas designated to each Detroit sports team (Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, Pistons) featuring youth clinics, pro shops, memorabilia displays, mascot appearances, sports courts, speed pitch machines, inflatables and more. Other show highlights include autograph sessions with current and former Detroit players, a Sports Pub to watch the college basketball tournament, roundtable discussions with Ticket personalities, contests, and a Minor Leagues area for the kids. 97.1's Ticket Chicks will be onsite along with the Detroit Pistons Dance Team Automotion.

"Detroit's sports fans are the most passionate and dedicated fans around. SportsFest was created as a one day free fan fest to recognize this passion and thank our listeners and fans," said Program Director Jimmy Powers.

Metromix Detroit

Who's ready to rock, girl? It's time for WRIF-FM (101.1)'s annual Rock Girl search for that special someone to represent the legendary Detroit powerhouse radio station at concerts, VIP events and even on the air... The winner of the competition will be rewarded with a $40,000 salary, a scholarship to Specs Howard School of Media Arts, rep the station at events and on air and more. A series of four casting calls over the next few weeks at local bars and establishments will celebrate the new crop of talent, familiarize themeselves with the station and its personalities and provide plenty of opportunities of fun to interact with the public and...party!... WRIF 2010 Rock Girl Search (Wed, 3/3)

Detroit News:

The 2010 Pistons Care Telethon will run throughout today, beginning with live radio and television broadcasts at The Palace of Auburn Hills and culminate with tonight's Pistons-Celtics game at 7:30 p.m., broadcast on Fox Sports Detroit and 97.1-FM, the Ticket. Proceeds from the telethon will benefit the Food Bank Council of Michigan to feed needy Michigan residents. TV viewers and radio listeners interested in donating can call (877) 499-2010 toll-free or donate online by visiting www.nba.com/pistons and clicking "Donate Now"... Pistons Telethon will help feed the needy (Tue, 3/2)

Jack Torry, whose book "Henderson's Light: Drinking, Driving and a Deadly Encounter" (Countinghouse Press, $25.95) detailed a tragic 1965 car crash that took the lives of three Birmingham Seaholm teens, including swim team star Roddy Henderson, will appear at 11:30 a.m. today on the Craig Fahle Show on Detroit Public Radio, WDET-FM (101.9). The Fahle show runs from 10 a.m. to noon... Author Jack Torry gives interview on WDET-FM (Tue, 3/2)

Broadcasting & Cable:

WDIV Detroit has been a pioneer in using Streambox's software-based encoder for IP-based newsgathering in both the Detroit area and internationally. The station relies on it instead of traditional microwave and satellite links to backhaul coverage for both TV newscasts and its Website. The NBC affiliate, owned by Post-Newsweek, has used Streambox to cover everything from a local long-distance yacht race to the aftermath of January's massive earthquake in Haiti, combining it with both wireless EVDO data cards and BGAN broadband satellite transmitters. This winter, WDIV took its use of the Streambox system one step further in an effort to improve its local severe-weather coverage. The station reached a deal with Michigan roadway authorities to place video-capable 3G smartphones loaded with Streambox software in 25 plow trucks... Streaming Snowplows Circle Detroit (Mon, 3/1)

Guest column by Bill Kalmar, former Director of the Michigan Quality Council

Congrats to Dick Purtan and his talented team for the $2.3 million raised in the 23rd annual Salvation Army Bed and Bread Radiothon! It was an exciting day as his legions of listeners and fans called in their pledges. We called our pledge in early and felt good all day as we heard the stories of how that money is assisting those less fortunate. And no one directs the all day activities better than Dick Purtan!

Money raised by the Radiothon will go a long way to feeding the over 5,000 people daily that the Bed and Bread trucks serve. In addition, two new trucks have been dedicated to Dick and Gail Purtan and Doc Andrews and Gene Taylor from money pledged by listeners. What a great honor for Dick and Gail and a wonderful legacy for Doc and Gene!

Dale Johnson of the Salvation Army mentioned that pledges would push the campaign "over the top" and callers did just that! And it happened because as the song says -- Dick Purtan "You're the top".

You're the top -
You're the louvre museum.
You're a melody from a symphony by strauss.
You're a bendel bonnet, a shakespeare sonnet, you're mickey mouse.
You're the nile - you're the tower of pisa.
You're the smile - on the mona lisa.
You're the top, you're mahatma ghandi.
You're the top - you are napoleon brandy.
You're the purple light of a summer night in spain.
You're the national gallery,
You're garbo's salary,
You're cellophane.
You are sublime, you're a salmon dinner.
You're the time - the time of the derby winner.

During the month of March I know that Dick and his Purtan's People will be featuring excerpts from the "Best of Purtan" and all of us are looking forward to that. But somehow I think once he retires and settles into a lifestyle of assisting charities and doing the work that is most dear to his heart, we will be exposed to more of the "Best of Purtan" because whatever it is he does, he does it BEST and the best is yet to come!

Congrats Dick on 45 years in radio and congrats on the accomplishments yet to be realized!

P.S. And yes I changed "turkey" to "salmon" in the lyrics!

Toledo Blade:

Even before cracking the November ratings book and crunching the newscast numbers, WNWO-TV, Channel 24, general manager Jon Skorburg had to know how his station fared. It's been the same every ratings period since Channel 24 began broadcasting nearly 45 years ago: WNWO is in last place in all competitive newscasts. One thousand: That's approximately how many viewers between the ages of 25-54, the prime advertising demographic, the Nielsens say tuned in to Channel 24 at 11 p.m. That's 22 times less than those who watch WTOL-TV, Channel 11, and 17 times less than those who tune in to WTVG-TV, Channel 13. In the average number of total viewers for that same newscast, WNWO was watched by 5,000 people, compared to 57,000 and 40,000 for WTOL and WTVG, respectively... Reshaping Toledo's Channel 24 (Sun, 2/28)

AnnArbor.com

WEMU (89.1-FM), the public radio station based at Eastern Michigan University, has announced new overnight programming starting Monday. Replacing the syndicated "Jazz with Bob Parlocha" will be a new national show with a broader musical focus called "Undercurrents." It includes jazz but also a variety of other genres. The full press release from WEMU: 89.1, WEMU, Eastern Michigan University's public radio station, will debut a new overnight music service beginning at 10 p.m. Monday, March 1. "Undercurrents," hosted by Peabody Award winner Greg McVicker, comes from RadioCamp LLC and distributed by Native Voice One: The Native American Radio Service, replaces the previous overnight program, the syndicated "Jazz with Bob Parlocha." "Undercurrents" is called "American music with a passport" and lives up to that claim with an intriguing, well-produced, expertly hosted, and very listenable mix of rock, blues, jazz, folk, native, Americana, funk, electronica, reggae, roots, world, dub, and alt country music" said WEMU's program director, Clark Smith... WEMU changing overnight programming with "Undercurrents" (Sun, 2/28)

A nice scene at Oakland Mall in Troy this evening just past 10 o'clock as Dick Purtan and crew put the wraps on their 23rd successful Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Club in Southeast Michigan. After the final tally of $2,339,440 was announced, Purtan spent several minutes shaking hands and chatting with the standing-room only crowd that had gathered at the mall for the duration of the 16-hour event.

Although the pledge tally fell about $60,000 short of their all-time record, the amount did surpass the $2.2 million raised in 2009.

Purtan is retiring from WOMC FM 104.3 on March 26th and this was his last Radiothon as host.

Detroit Free Press:

It's just a little bit after 10 a.m. and more than $580,000 has been raised at Dick Purtan's annual radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army. The scene at Oakland Mall today is filling up quickly with fans and longtime friends who share a sense of community with Purtan, who announced two weeks ago that he will retire his "Purtan's People" morning show March 26, the final bow of a nearly 45-year Motor City broadcasting career... Dick Purtan radiothon raises thousands (Fri, 2/26)

It will likely be an emotional scene today as Dick Purtan hosts his final radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army. "For me, this is the culmination of these past 23 years of work," Purtan told the Free Press of the Dick Purtan Radiothon, which has raised nearly $22 million for metro Detroit's homeless and hungry people. Purtan announced two weeks ago that he will retire his "Purtan's People" morning show March 26, the final bow of a nearly 45-year Motor City broadcasting career. The news of his retirement is sure to put an even brighter spotlight on his biggest annual event... Broadcasting legend Purtan to host final radiothon today (Fri, 2/26)

After nearly a decade of busting bad guys, bulldog Channel 7 investigative reporter Steve Wilson is losing his job. But he's not losing his sense of humor. "Isn't it ironic that Kwame Kilpatrick still has his job after I'm losing mine?" he observed wryly this week. "That will teach you a lesson in fairness." In a way, Wilson outlasted the man perceived to be his nemesis. Arriving just before Kilpatrick finished first in the 2001 mayoral primary, Wilson stuck around as chief investigative reporter at WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) well after Kilpatrick resigned as mayor, spent 99 days in jail and moved his family to Texas. That's cold comfort in a television market that just a few years ago bristled with investigative reporters. Wilson's imminent departure in what he characterized as a cost-cutting move, coupled with Scott Lewis' sign-off at WJBK-TV (Channel 2) in December and cutbacks in the investigative unit at WDIV-TV (Channel 4), show that one way local stations are dealing with financial pressures is by shrinking the high-impact -- but high-cost -- special project teams... Reporter Steve Wilson losing job at Channel 7 (Fri, 2/26)

Detroit News:

Steve Wilson, the dogged Channel 7 chief investigative reporter known for pursuing ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick for alleged misdeeds from Detroit to California, is being ousted, he said Thursday. "It's a business decision made by a corporate owner who is not in this community," Wilson told The Detroit News on Thursday night. He said he was given notice that his contract would not be renewed when it expires next month. Wilson also posted the news on DetroitYes.com, a popular local Web forum. "Simply put, Channel 7's corporate management in Cincinnati just does not see the value in continuing to invest in me and the work I do here in Detroit," he wrote on the forum. The award-winning reporter, who joined WXYZ in 2001, said he hopes to launch a nonprofit that would house an investigative reporting team producing items for other media outlets... Steve Wilson loses job as TV reporter at Ch. 7 (Fri, 2/26)

A Prairie Home Companion announces special musical guests for Detroit show

Michigan Radio and Olympia Entertainment will present a special live performance of A Prairie Home Companion, this Saturday, February 27. Host Garrison Keillor and special guests will take the stage at Detroit's historic Fox Theater for a live, national broadcast beginning at 5:45 pm.

Saturday's show will feature live performances by special musical guests, including blues and soul legend Bettye LaVette, Detroit singer and songwriter "Sir" Mack Rice, and gospel singers Jearlyn and Jevetta Steele. Host Garrison Keillor will weave local humor into the show and share his signature monologue, "The News From Lake Wobegon," with Detroit audiences, in addition to performing comic skits with the Prairie Home cast.

Bettye LaVette, who has been recording soul music since 1962, is best known for her 2005 album I've Got My Own Hell To Raise and Grammy-nominated 2007 album The Scene of the Crime. She has previously appeared on NPR's All Things Considered as well as Late Night with David Letterman, The Conan O'Brien Show, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

"Sir" Mack Rice has been a nationally prominent songwriter for over 50 years, and lives in the Detroit area. He has written compositions for artists including The Staple Singers, Eddie Floyd, Johnny Taylor, Rufus Thomas, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Busta Rhymes, and Ike and Tina Turner. Among his best known compositions are "Respect Yourself" and "Mustang Sally," a song he wrote and recorded, that gained even greater popularity after Wilson Pickett covered it in 1966.

A Prairie Home Companion is currently carried coast-to-coast on over 580 public radio stations, with a nationwide audience of over 4 million listeners. The show regularly airs across southern Michigan on Michigan Radio (91.7 FM in Ann Arbor & Detroit, 91.1 FM in Flint, 104.1 FM in West Michigan) Saturdays at 6:00 pm and is repeated Sundays at noon.

Flint Journal:

For the uninitiated, it might be hard to grasp exactly what "A Prairie Home Companion" is, and what makes it so popular. It's a throwback serial radio program, sure, but one that combines live theater, music, comedy and melodrama into an entertainment stew that works unbelievably well... Love 'Prairie Home Companion'? See it live Saturday in Detroit (Fri, 2/26)

Detroit News:

The 23rd Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army kicks off Friday at Oakland Mall. Because Purtan announced his retirement from radio earlier this month, all are hoping for a blowout, with more donations than usual. Over the years, the radiothon has raised more than $22 million for the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Club, which feeds the hungry and shelters the homeless in Detroit. "It's such an important program, so many people are fed off of it," Purtan told The News in an interview earlier this month. "It feeds, oh gosh, nearly 5,000 people a day, 365 days a year. It shelters 570 people (men, women and children) 365 days a year." Purtan's last day on the air on WOMC-FM (104.3) will be March 26. The radiothon will continue after that, but Purtan's involvement going forward is still being worked out... Purtan kicks off radiothon Friday (Thu, 2/25)

Detroit Free Press:

The 23rd Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon being held Friday to benefit the Salvation Army, will be the last for the WOMC-FM (104.3) radio personality before his retirement in March. The radiothon, which is being held in Troy at the Oakland Mall Center Court between 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., has raised nearly $22 million for The Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Program since its' launch in 1988... Purtan to host his last radiothon Friday (Thu, 2/25)

WDIV hires Gary Macko as new GSM

WDIV-TV Ch. 4 has announced the hiring of Gary Macko as General Sales Manager of WDIV Local 4, the flagship station of Post-Newsweek Stations, Inc. Macko, a veteran television general sales manager for over ten years at stations in New York and Tennessee, will assume the role in mid-March.

"We're thrilled to have Gary join the Local 4 team. He's just the right guy to take on this critical role," said Marla Drutz, WDIV Vice President and General Manager. "Gary's years of experience in the industry and enthusiastic leadership of our sales team will be a great benefit for all of our clients looking to create effective and innovative campaigns on-air and online."

Prior to joining WDIV, Macko served as general sales manager at WMC-TV, the NBC affiliate in Memphis, Tennessee, since 2001. Before that, Macko held the role of general sales manager at WKBW, the ABC affiliate in Buffalo, New York, and WTVH, the CBS affiliate in Syracuse, New York, where he had been promoted from the position of local sales manager.

Macko will oversee sales efforts for WDIV-TV's programming including Local 4 News at 5 and 6 p.m. and Local 4 News at 11 p.m. (the number one-rated newscast in Michigan and top NBC affiliate local newscast) and signature events including exclusive television coverage of the International Freedom Festival Fireworks, America's Thanksgiving Parade, and the Olympics.

AnnArbor.com:

The Federal Communications Commission recently granted WCBN-FM -- the University of Michigan's nearly 40-year-old, not-for-profit, student-run radio station -- the opportunity increase its power from 200 watts to 3,000 watts. But in order to take advantage of this, WCBN must purchase a new transmitter and antenna (the station has received quotes in the range of $20,000-$80,000 for each, plus the cost of installation), and the FCC has provided WCBN with a window of 3 years to make the change. To this end, WCBN is now seeking listener testimonials, which will be used to petition for support from the university and other student organization umbrella groups... U-M's student radio station, WCBN, seeks listener testimonials for funding petitions (Tue, 2/23)

Detroit's Downtown Hoedown sets 2010 dates

The 28th annual Downtown Hoedown has been set for May 14th - 16th and will once again be sponsored by country WYCD-FM 99.5 Detroit. The artist lineup will be revealed starting on March 12th. For details on what's been billed as the USA's largest free country music festival, visit www.wycd.com.

Crain's Detroit Business:

When yawning and bleary-eyed metro Detroiters begin their day on March 29, absent from their car radios for the first time in 45 years will be the voice of Dick Purtan. Known for his humor, charity work and trademark mustache, Purtan announced on Feb. 11 that he's retiring next month from oldies station WOMC-FM 104.3, ending a career that began more than 50 years ago. That includes on-air stints at different Detroit stations since 1965. Widely considered a pioneer of the modern morning radio format of comedy bits, chatter and music, and the recipient of nearly every imaginable award in the business, Purtan exits the industry at a time of immense change. Some of that change has been pressure from radio station managers and owners to talk and laugh less on air, and play more music instead... Dick Purtan leaves a changing industry (Sun, 2/21)

Detroit Free Press:

"Mojo in the Morning" is celebrating its 10th anniversary on WKQI-FM (95.5) this week. It's been a decade of jokes, phone scams, celebrity dirt and engaging interviews from the team that includes Mojo, Spike and homegrown cohost Shannon Murphy. The show, a consistent top 5 performer in the morning ratings race, might be best known for good times, but leader Mojo says the most gratifying thing about his involvement is its connection to the community. "Success was always the plan, but the coolest thing is interacting and working with our listeners through Time Team Detroit," Mojo said of the organization established to coordinate volunteer efforts and mobilize the show's listeners... Mojo's morning crew reaches a milestone (Sun, 2/21)

New York Times:

It was an instinctual move, honed through years of watching the Olympics on television. Tom August, a resident of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., changed channels to see what was on CBC, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. It's an option available to many American border cities like Detroit, Buffalo and Seattle, and a secret escape for Americans who do not want to watch NBC. But as August soon realized, that option was not available for the Vancouver Games. CTV, Canada's largest private broadcaster, won the rights to broadcast the Vancouver Games, and August's cable company does not carry it... Canadian TV Switch Displeases Americans (Sat, 2/20)

Detroit Free Press:

Paul Carey, who was Ernie Harwell's partner on Tigers broadcasts for 19 seasons, said it's "heartrending" to see Harwell deal with his terminal cancer. "He's the most gentle, the most tolerant, most patient man I've ever known," Carey said Friday morning at the Tigers' spring training camp. "He's just one of a kind. There will never be another Ernie." Carey said he has been talking to Harwell about once a week. Their most recent conversation was Monday... Ernie Harwell's ordeal saddens Paul Carey (Sat, 2/20)

Detroit Free Press:

CNN's Soledad O'Brien will lead a panel discussion at Ford Motor's 29th annual Black History Month Celebration on Friday. O'Brien will moderate a program titled "Voices of Communication: Shaping the Story of Black America." Also participating: syndicated radio personality Tom Joyner, Essence magazine's Angela Burt-Murray, TV One's Jonathan Rodgers and filmmaker David Wilson. WDIV-TV (Channel 4) anchor Rhonda Walker and state Sen. Martha Scott, D-Highland Park, will be honored for their community work at the event, which is open to the public... Ford Motor to salute Black History (Wed, 2/17)

Detroit News:

Jerry Hodak , the chief meteorologist for WXYZ-TV (Channel 7), and his former colleague, retired anchorman Bill Bonds, are being inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame recognizes reporters, editors, publishers, broadcasters, educators and others who have made outstanding contributions to the profession. Hodak and Bonds are part of the group's 25th anniversary class... Jerry Hodak, Bill Bonds to enter journalism Hall (Thu, 2/18)

Guest column by Bill Kalmar, former Director of the Michigan Quality Council

Country singers have a way of expressing their thoughts and views unlike any other artists. How else can we account for songs such as, I Guess I Had Your Leavin' Coming, or I Bought The Shoes That Just Walked Out On Me, or how about, If The Phone Doesn't Ring, It's Me. Rhett Akins had a hit a couple of years ago with a ditty titled, That Ain't My Truck. Here's a verse: "That ain't my shadow on her wall, Lord this don't look good at all, Cuz that's my girl -- my whole world... But that ain't my truck".

And while on the subject of trucks, every day thousands of our fellow citizens look for the distinctive red and white Salvation Army Bed and Bread trucks that traverse through the various neighborhoods of our community. These are people who through no fault of their own have become disenfranchised. Imagine, if you can, being hungry and homeless - especially during this coldest time of the year! It's a heartbreaking thought but unfortunately for many in our community it's a way of life.

Fortunately, the Bed and Bread trucks of The Salvation Army have become a lifeline for the underprivileged. Each day The Salvation Army Bed and Bread trucks serve nearly 5,000 meals on the streets of Detroit. In some cases, the cup of soup, sandwich, and perhaps a cookie, is the only sustenance some of our fellow citizens will receive for the entire day. And no matter the weather, the Bed and Bread trucks are there to provide what is a life saving meal for too many.

Most of us in the area have never seen the trucks and that is a good sign. It means that we are in the warm confines of our homes, gainfully employed, and have never experienced the trauma of life on the streets. Not seeing The Salvation Army Trucks means that our lives have not been impacted by the strains of unemployment or some tragedy not of our making. As such, I think it is incumbent upon us to assist those people who look for and see the Bed and Bread trucks everyday!

The country song may state that "it's not my truck", but I truly believe that the Salvation Army trucks belong to everyone in the community who want to assist those less fortunate. The Salvation Army trucks make no distinction to race, color or creed because the trucks provide nourishment to everyone! And, believe it or not, there are in fact people who have had the trucks in their lives and as a result of the assistance from The Salvation Army are now back on their feet and are contributing to the Bed and Bread campaign themselves.

How can we be a part of this tremendous movement? On Friday, February 26th from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Dick Purtan of 104.3 WOMC will be hosting his 23nd Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon live from the Oakland Mall to raise money for the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Club. To support this very worthwhile endeavor, you can become a member of The Bed and Bread Club by contributing just $120 (or just $10 a month), which will help feed one person in Detroit for a year. Or, for $240 (or $20 per month) you can help feed two people. And for that $240 donation you will receive a commemorative collectible plate signed by Dick Purtan.

Of course no donation will be refused and all are certainly welcome! Dick Purtan has been conducting this Radiothon for 22 years and because of his commitment and the generosity of the community, nearly $22 million has been raised for The Salvation Army's Bed And Bread Club. Last year's campaign raised more than $2.2 million!

If you have never seen the Bed and Bread trucks, consider yourself one of the lucky ones. However, we need the trucks to keep running for those less fortunate. And yes, I know that there are many worthwhile charities that need our support. But the Salvation Army campaign strikes at the very heart of our own community, so won't you somehow find it in your heart to contribute to The Bed and Bread Club? Just call (248) 307-1043 between now and February 26 and make your donation so that those who rely on the trucks will continue to see them everyday. Don't be the person in the song, If The Phone Doesn't Ring, It's Me. Dick Purtan and his team are waiting for your call! Make their phones ring!

And if you happen to pass one of the trucks on the road, give a wave knowing that your contribution is helping to provide a lifeline to many of our community's neediest citizens. And contrary to the country song, that truck belongs to all of us! I'll be doing my part - won't you join in too!

For more information on the 23rd Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon visit womc.com.

Online donations are also being accepted right now! Click to make your secure donation.

Be sure to become a fan of the Radiothon on Facebook: Dick Purtan Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army's Bed & Bread Club page

column written by Art Vuolo, Jr.

Frankly I'm getting tired of losing so many friends in radio. It's is one of the worst parts about getting older. James R. Marik, best known to radio people, as J. R. Nelson, was not a close friend, but we've known each other since first meeting in 1983 at this new station in the swampy Meadowlands of New Jersey. It was a Newark station called WVNJ at 100.3 FM, that had just undergone a complete makeover by Scott Shannon. It was now WHTZ Newark, New Jersey, New York and Connecticut's Hot Rockin', Flame-throwin' Z-100! I was there on the Friday after Thanksgiving in 1983, less than four months after the station signed on back on August 2nd. I even brought the legendary Joey Reynolds (now at WOR NYC) who Scott Shannon allowed to audition (on the air) for a job. It made for a great, and now priceless video. J. R. Nelson was part of that original staff. The video of him and Ross Brittain and Jonathan Bell (who's still at Z-100) all singing "Shout" by the Isley Brothers is still vivid in my mind.

J. R. Nelson died yesterday, February 16th from, what his partner Sue Peters felt was a heart attack. The Oak Harbor, OH native was only 60, and would have been 61 next month. He was going to lay down for a nap and fell on the bed. He had also been battling from bladder cancer. In recent years J. R. has been in Detroit as Director of Imaging and Creative Services at country WYCD-FM (99.5) and later at classic hits WOMC-FM (104.3) both owned by CBS Radio. He and Sue shared a home in Rochester Hills, in suburban Detroit.

J. R. Nelson had one of the best sets of pipes in the business. A distinctive voice that was immediately recognizable. He...and it, will surely be missed. I know that I will certainly be sending a DVD of that November 1983 video to Sue Peters. It may make her cry, but I know it will also make her smile.

Rest in peace JRN...you were among the best.

Reach Art Vuolo at artvuolo@aol.com or visit his web site at vuolovideo.com

AllAccess.com:

JIM MARIK (A.K.A. J-R NELSON) passed away in his sleep this afternoon after a three-year battle with cancer. J-R is probably best known for being part of the original Z100/NYC morning show with SCOTT SHANNON. He also ran his own voiceover service for years and most recently, worked at CBS RADIO/DETROIT... J-R Nelson Succumbs To Cancer (Tue, 2/16)

Fox Sports Net/Detroit updates Pistons schedule

During the course of the season, FOX Sports Detroit picked up two Detroit Pistons games that were originally scheduled to be nationally televised on ESPN - Dec. 9 vs. Philadelphia and March 21 at Cleveland. In exchange, two games have been removed from the local TV schedule - Feb. 27 at Golden State and March 13 at Atlanta. These games will not be available for local viewers.

The Pistons' schedule with TV availability can be viewed at www.foxsportsdetroit.com/pages/pistsonsschedule.

Two veteran Detroit-area radio personalities announced plans to move on from their current gigs on Facebook this morning:

Lisa Jesswein, morning show co-host at pop WDVD-FM 96.3 posted on her Facebook account the following-

I invite you to take joy in all that is new in your life. I have decided to leave the morning show on 96.3 WDVD to forge a new path. I am so very grateful to all who have followed me over the years, those who met me at WDVD and those who will continue to watch my progress. Where will I end up? Hmmm...stay tuned! :-)

Weekender Steve Black of rock WRIF-FM was less mysterious about his destination on his posting-

Time to announce my new job. Starting tomorrow I'm the Program Director at 103.9 The Fox in Flint. I will be on the air weekdays starting Wednesday. I will be finishing up my WRIF duties over the next couple of weeks. I'm excited to be going back to my hometown! I can't thank Doug Podell and Mark Pennington enough. They have taught me well. I'll have a new Fox FB page up on Monday. please friend us when you can.

Black grew up in Flushing and has been on Detroit radio for nearly 20 years at six different stations including WRIF. The Fox 103.9 is Cumulus Broadcasting's classic rock WRSR-FM Owosso/Flint.

Purtan retirement announcement gets lots of coverage

The Detroit media is not hesitating to provide coverage to yesterday's announcement that Dick Purtan has decided to retire from the daily radio grind next month. Some of the updated stories are below:

Detroit News:

Detroit radio icon Dick Purtan announced on his morning show Thursday that he's signing off after a long run as host of one of Detroit's top morning shows. His last "Purtan's People" radio program will be March 26. Purtan told his WOMC-FM (104.3) listeners that he and wife, Gail, decided over the two-week Christmas holiday that it was the right time to retire, almost 45 years after he came to Detroit to take the late-night shift at the hot pop music station WKNR-AM (1300) in May 1965... Dick Purtan: Time to retire after four decades on Detroit radio (Fri, 2/12)

Detroit Free Press:

After 45 years on the Motor City airwaves, it's the end of an era for Dick Purtan, known for his distinguished voice, signature moustache and warm-hearted humor. After 14 years on WOMC-FM (104.3) -- and almost 50 years since his Detroit market debut at WKNR-AM -- the legendary broadcaster said Thursday he'll step away from his morning-talk mic on March 26... After 45 years on Detroit airwaves, beloved radio host Dick Purtan will retire in March (Fri, 2/12)

The Oakland Press:

Dick Purtan's fans reacted quickly Thursday to the news he had decided to retire March 26 after 45 years in radio. "I'm holding several hundred messages here in my hands," said Purtan, one of the giants of Metro Detroit morning radio and host of the Oldies 104.3 WOMC Morning Show with Purtan's People... Radio legend Dick Purtan will retire (Fri, 2/12)

WXYZ-TV Ch. 7:

With Videos: Longtime Detroit radio personality Dick Purtan has announced he is retiring from the airwaves, effective March 26. Purtan told his listeners on his WOMC-FM radio program Thursday morning... Radio Legend Dick Purtan to Retire (Thu, 2/11)

WDIV-TV Ch. 4:

ClickonDetroit.com has several videos available... Search ClickonDetroit.com (Thu, 2/11)

WJBK-TV Ch. 2:

With Video: A Detroit broadcasting legend is calling it a career after almost a half-century of making us laugh. Dick Purtan has been a fixture on the radio dial for 45 years. His last day on WOMC is March 26... Dick Purtan Says He's Retiring in March (Thu, 2/11)

Also, please check out Art Vuolo's latest column here on Michiguide.com:

Dick Purtan hangs up the headphones

NBA's Detroit Pistons set to host 3rd Pistons Care Telethon

The Detroit Pistons plan to continue their tradition of giving back to their community by hosting a day-long telethon on TV, radio, and at the Palace of Auburn Hills on March 2nd. The press release:

The Detroit Pistons have announced that the 2010 Pistons Care Telethon benefiting Food Bank Council of Michigan will take place on Tuesday, Mar. 2. The team is devoting the entire day leading up to the Pistons' game against the Boston Celtics, including their in-arena presentation and game broadcasts, to raise money for FBCM. The telethon begins at 6 a.m. with live radio and television broadcasts at The Palace and runs throughout the day, culminating with Pistons-Celtics game at 7:30 p.m., broadcast on Fox Sports Detroit and 97.1 The Ticket.

As Michigan families struggle to weather the state's troubled economy, the demand on community food banks is higher than ever. This year's telethon benefiting FBCM will dedicate all proceeds to feed Michigan residents in critical need throughout the state. The FBCM also supports Michigan farmers by working with them to provide fresh produce to those in need. The team and entire Palace Sports & Entertainment organization is asking for the support of the Pistons community.

"The Food Bank Council of Michigan has the ability to stretch minimal donations into maximum efforts," said PS&E President and CEO Tom Wilson. "Just $10 feeds a family for a week; $100 provides a student a backpack that can be refilled throughout the school year and $200 feeds a senior for an entire year. We have the opportunity this year to do something great for our friends and neighbors right here in Michigan."

Donations can be made immediately by clicking here. Online donations will be accepted until March 2. Donors interested in participating on the day of the telethon will be provided a toll free number to call throughout the day. To learn about other fund-raising programs that allow individuals, businesses, schools or churches to get involved, please call the Pistons community relations department at 248-377-0100.

The FBCM provides statewide leadership to food banks in their efforts to alleviate hunger through the distribution of surplus food to those in need. FBCM gathers food and funds to help stock Michigan's food banks. The food is then distributed throughout the statewide food bank network. Millions of pounds of this food are surplus vegetables, fruits and other grocery items that, for one reason or another, cannot be sold. For more information, please visit www.fbcmich.org.

"It is always heartwarming to see a community come together to help one another," said Jane Marshall, executive director of the FBCM. "Michigan food banks are stretched beyond the limit and cannot keep food on their shelves to keep up with the increased demand. The financial disaster of Michigan is taking a toll on Michigan families, so we hope those who can donate help in some way."

In 2008, the Pistons became the first professional sports team in Detroit and in the NBA to present an entire home game as a charitable fundraiser. The 2009 Pistons Care Telethon benefiting Feed The Children raised more than $450,000 in pledges and helped to provide food and personal care items to 25,000 families across Michigan.

Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame adds five

The Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame recognizes reporters, editors, publishers, owners, photographers, broadcasters, educators and others who have made outstanding contributions to the profession. Since 1985 the Journalism Hall of Fame has continued the tradition of honoring journalists begun in 1952 by the Michigan Newspaper Hall of Fame.

The class of 2010 includes:

• Bill Bonds- iconic TV anchor at WXYZ-TV 7 and WJBK-TV 2 in Detroit
• Ron Dzwonkowski- Detroit Free Press associate editor and columnist
• Dawn Hertz - Media Lawyer with the firm Butzel-Long
• Jerry Hodak- Detroit TV reporter and anchor since 1965; currently the chief meteorologist at WXYZ-TV
• James Pooler- Detroit Free Press reporter

The Hall of Fame banquet is scheduled for Sunday, April 18, 2010, at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing. Contact Michigan State University's School of Journalism at 517-353-6430 for more information.

MLive.com / Associated Press:

Ernie Harwell will receive the Vin Scully Lifetime Achievement Award in Sports Broadcasting. The Hall of Fame broadcaster for the Detroit Tigers will receive the award on May 5 in New York. The 92-year-old Harwell was the voice of the Tigers from 1960-02. He said last September he has inoperable cancer, a month after surgery for an obstructed bile duct. He was honored with a tribute during a game at Comerica Park on Sept. 16. Harwell's 55-year career began in Atlanta in 1946. He moved two years later to the Brooklyn Dodgers. After stints with the New York Giants and Baltimore Orioles, he started his long association with the Tigers. Harwell was voted the 1981 Ford Frick Award for major contributions to baseball by the Hall of Fame. The Scully award is named for the longtime Dodgers broadcaster, who won the Frick Award in 1982. Scully helped form Fordham's radio station WFUV, which is the award's sponsor, and joined the Dodgers broadcast crew in 1950. Tigers' Ernie Harwell to receive Vin Scully Lifetime Achievement Award for broadcasting (Thu, 2/11)

column written by Art Vuolo, Jr.

No radio personality in Detroit radio history has been more iconic than Paul Richard Purtan, who along with J. P. McCarthy, is the longest running on-air talent on the Motor City radio dial. McCarthy joined WJR in the late fifties and (except for a brief stint at San Francisco's KGO) remained in the Fisher Building until his untimely death on August 16, 1995. In fact, when I was commissioned to produce a six hour documentary called "The History of Detroit Radio" in 1971, an entire chapter was devoted to "Detroit's Super Stars;" McCarthy and Dick Purtan!

Mr. Purtan, however, had a far more mobile career but, was always true to Detroit. I was familiar with Dick prior to his even coming to Motown. I heard him on top-40 legend WSAI (AM 1360) in Cincinnati, where he helped bring the Beatles to the Queen City. He was Paul Purtan in those years, following Dick Wagner. Back then, in the mid-1960's, stations just didn't put jocks with the same first or last name on the air back-to-back. So, when he arrived in Dearborn at WKNR, the well-remembered "Keener 13," he preceded Paul Cannon, so his real first name of Paul was dropped and he began using the name Dick, since his real middle name IS Richard. He was also clean-shaven in those early days as evidenced by this photo taken in the old WKNR production studio in the summer of 1965.

Dick arrived about the same time as a Kansas City DJ by the name of Rock Robbins...but that was too close to another big name in Detroit radio, Robin Seymour. So, Rock Robbins took the name of Scott Regan and he arrived at Keener 13 just prior to Purtan. Dick needed some promotion to counter Regan's "skateboard contest," and came up with the "picture contest." You needed to draw a picture of what you thought Purtan looked like. Well, I already had an 8 X 10 black and white photo of "Paul" Purtan from WSAI. So, I cheated and drew a darn good rendering of his likeness....but still didn't win the contest.

Dick started at Keener in the 10 pm till 1 am time slot and was truly outrageous. Dick is from Kenmore, NY a suburb of Buffalo. At first he was almost as crazy on the air as another Buffalo native (now in NYC) Joey Reynolds, but later turned out to be as smooth as still another Buffalonian by the name of Tom Shannon. Soon he segued to mornings at WKNR and become increasingly popular. This caught the attention of WBAL Radio 11 (1090 AM) in Baltimore to woo him to Maryland. That lasted less than two months. He used a "non-WBAL" word on the air when he said "guts." He also did a parody about Spiro Agnew, before he was VP of the United States. That didn't sit well with the brass inside the beltway.

So, soon after he left, the Dickster was back in town and spent the next ten years at WXYZ (AM 1270). Infact his program director for part of that run was James K. Davis, aka Big Jim Edwards from the Big 8 CKLW in 1970. Then in another odd twist of circumstances, Purtan wound up across the river in Canada at CKLW (where Davis/Edwards had been, just a few years before, as a Big 8 jock) working for well-remembered general manager Herb McCord. This was just at the tail-end of the "glory days" of CKLW as a Drake-style top-40 powerhouse.

Dick will also be remembered as one of the originators of the "put-on" phone calls, while over at CKLW, since rules about such pranks in Canada were less constrictive than those of our FCC. Personally I will never forget his phony call to the late Bob Ufer, UM's ultimate "homer announcer" offering him a job at ABC Sports! Also, how a clip from his show got my "radio on video" montage banned at a convention of the National Association of Broadcasters. All he did was hold up a pair of dark blue satin underwear briefs, a listener sent him for his birthday, with his first name embroidered on the fly! It was outrageously funny, but the NAB thought it was in bad taste and pulled the plug on the video. Thankfully, they are a lot more progressive today.

After years of cruising through the Detroit-Windsor tunnel, Dick flipped to the FM dial at WCZY-FM when it was called Z-95.5. Mid-stream in his tenure next to Mel Farr Ford (Ten Mile & Greenfield in Oak Park) the station changed call-letters to WKQI and was known as Q-95. When he finally felt he couldn't relate to the current hit music anymore, he made the move to "Fashionable Ferndale" the Detroit suburb that is home to CBS-owned WOMC-FM (104.3) which has morphed from a traditional oldies (late 50's, 60's & 70's) station to today's more prevalent classic hits fare (late 60's, 70's & 80's). It's been a 14 year run at WOMC, which (for the past 4 years) has also been the flagship station for University of Michigan Football. It's unsure how Purtan's departure might affect that relationship, but U-M equipment manager, and frequent Purtan guest on Tailgate Shows, Jon Falk, will miss him greatly.

Dick has won just about every award and honor one can achieve in a single lifetime from the NAB, the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, trade publications and civic and charitable organizations.

Tongues are already waggin' about who might succeed him. With a glut of out-of-work radio personalities the possibilities are bountiful. J.J. and Lynne and, recently hired for part-time at WOMC, Chris Edmonds and Stacy DuFord seem like a couple of strong candidates. Edmonds and DuFord are currently on Sunday's 10 a.m. till 2 p.m. at 104.3 FM.

Mr. Purtan is the father of six daughters, three of whom are in the broadcasting industry; Jennifer, Jackie, Jill, Joanne, Jessica and Julie. He's grandfather to seven grandchildren as well. I fondly recall videotaping daughter JoAnne's wedding in 1993. I stunned him and his wife Gail by (without their knowledge) getting most of the biggest names in Detroit TV news to congratulate JoAnne and Eric on their nuptials! I also remember him giving me more than I asked for in his compensating me for that video job. What a prince he is! Yup, he's one of the last of the truly "good guys" in radio.

Dan Mason, who runs CBS Radio, started out as a DJ, so he knows first hand, what a loss this is for WOMC...which stands for Wayne, Oakland & Macomb Counties, making up greater Detroit. But, in the fall I tell everyone that WOMC stands for Where Only Michigan Counts! CBS/Detroit VP & Market Manager Debbie Kenyon said, "No one has made more of an impact on Detroit radio than Dick Purtan. He's truly one-of-a-kind."

In late May of this year Dick would have been on the air in the Motor City for a remarkable 45 years! A celebration will no doubt mark the occasion and regarding that talk of another Detroit Radio Reunion, Dick emceed the last three such events, and according to local marketing executive and past reunion committee member, Mike Seltzer..."no one in Detroit can emcee like Dick."

Also his annual Salvation Army radiothon has raised over 2 million for the last couple of years which, in this economy, is incredible. He will do the annual event again on February 26th live from the Oakland Mall in Troy.

Purtan's wife Gail is an honest-to-God walking miracle who has survived both breast and ovarian cancer for the past 13 years! She is an incredible woman, and after 50 years of marriage they would like to enjoy the future together at their home in West Bloomfield and their get-a-way place in southwest Florida. Oh yeah, and he plans to do a lot of sleeping after that final show on March 26th.

Happy Retirement Richard from all of us in your "buddies and pals" club and all listeners whose lives you've touched since your arrival May 24, 1965. Good luck to our AM-FM-MC-DP...DICK PURTAN!

For more on the career of Dick Purtan, be sure to check out Keener13.com too!

Reach Art Vuolo at artvuolo@aol.com or visit his web site at vuolovideo.com

One of the biggest stories in Detroit morning radio history is breaking today with Dick Purtan's announcement that he's going to be retiring next month. This most certainly will be one of the biggest radio stories of the year and will likely have repercussions for any number of stations as the scramble begins to lure and/or maintain morning listeners as a new landscape takes shape in morning drive.

Here's hoping Mr. Purtan has a long and happy retirement!

Audio of today's announcement, courtesy of WOMC

Press release from CBS Radio Detroit:

Legendary Detroit radio personality and Hall of Fame broadcaster Dick Purtan today announced his retirement from CBS Radio Detroit's 104.3 WOMC. After 45 years on the air in Detroit, the last 14 hosting morning drive on WOMC, he will retire effective March 26, 2010.

Purtan, regarded as one of the country's most respected, revered and recognized air personalities, is an icon in radio broadcasting. During his long career he has been installed in both National Radio Halls of Fame, as well as the Michigan Broadcasters Hall of Fame and has won the coveted "Marconi" as the nation's top radio personality. Along with many other honors and awards, he earned a television Emmy in 1980 for his stellar performance emceeing the Detroit Emmy TV Awards television special and was selected to run as an Olympic Torch bearer in 2002.

Purtan's show is always topical and infused with intelligent comedy - taking listeners to the edge, but never "crossing the line". He is nationally recognized as the father of the original "Put-On Call" which has become a programming staple on many radio stations around the country. Surrounding himself with a cast of characters, both real and imaginary, he excels in what radio was meant to be - "theater of the mind." An equal opportunity satirist, Purtan has good-heartedly skewered everyone and everything in the public eye.

"I was trying to put off retirement until the Lions made it to the Superbowl," said Purtan, "but frankly, I've got to get some sleep."

He added, "It's been my honor to have been welcomed into the homes and lives of the people of Southeast Michigan for the part 45 years. It's been a ball... and besides all of the fun, I hope we've made a difference."

"Unfortunately, we are losing a legend," noted Debbie Kenyon, Vice President and Market Manager for CBS Radio in Detroit. "No one has made more of an impact on Detroit radio than Dick Purtan. He is truly one-of-a-kind. Millions of people have woken up to Dick's voice in the morning...his departure will leave a void I'm not sure anyone can fill."

Purtan's dedication and commitment extends beyond his morning show. The Detroit News recognized his charitable contributions by naming him a "Michiganian of the Year" in 1993. This past September he and his wife Gail were bestowed the honor of being "Goodfellows of the Year" by the Detroit Goodfellows Organization for their on-going commitment to charitable causes.

Throughout his career Purtan has helped many charitable organizations and countless people in need. His annual Radiothon for The Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Program has raised more than $22 million since 1988 to feed the homeless and hungry in the Metro Detroit area. This year's Radiothon will be held on Friday, February 26, at Oakland Mall in Troy from 6:00am-10:00pm and broadcast on WOMC and streamed live on www.womc.com. His Radiothon is the largest single day, single radio station fundraiser in the country.

He has also been active in fund raising for Ovarian Cancer Research at the Karmanos Cancer Center through the Gail Purtan Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, and has been an avid supporter of Children's Hospital among other charities in the Metro Detroit area.

Purtan's career path began in his hometown of Buffalo, N.Y. and included stays in Syracuse, N.Y.; Jacksonville, Fla. and Cincinnati, Ohio. While at the latter destination, he personally arranged for The Beatles to perform in Cincinnati during their first tour of America in 1964. He and Gail scraped together $2500 (their life savings) - and convinced four of his fellow jocks to do the same - to secure the Fab Four's performance. When they took to the stage, it was Purtan who introduced them. In 1965, he traveled north on I-75 for his first Detroit job at the legendary WKNR - Keener 13. In 1968, he was wooed to WBAL in Baltimore, where he did the morning show for five weeks before being fired to being "too wild for the town." A month later, he returned to morning radio in Detroit on WXYZ - 1270 where he stayed for 10 years. Then in 1978, he crossed the river to CKLW AM in Windsor, Canada., Four years later, he switched to the FM band (and shortened his commute) by moving to WCZY FM in Detroit - which later became WKQI. In 1996, he moved to WOMC, where he has been ever since.

Purtan and his wife Gail reside in West Bloomfield. Together they raised six daughters (Jennifer, Jackie, Jill, JoAnne, Jessica & Julie) and now boast seven grandchildren (five boys and two girls).

Detroit News:

After 45 years in Detroit, longtime air personality Dick Purtan called it a career this morning, announcing on his "Purtan's People" radio program that his last show will be March 26. Purtan told his WOMC-FM (104.3) listeners that he and wife Gail had decided over the two-week Christmas holiday that it was the right time to hang up the microphone, almost exactly 45 years since he first came to Detroit to take the late-night shift at WKNR-AM (1310) after being hired there in May 1965. "I must tell you, I've been blessed to do something I've loved and that I truly enjoy, but I have to be honest, I have been enjoying it less lately," Purtan noted... Dick Purtan is retiring from radio (Thu, 2/11)

Detroit Free Press:

In between weight-loss jokes and adult-contemporary radio hits, Dick Purtan announced early this morning on his radio show that he will be retiring after 45 years on Detroit airwaves. Purtan said the decision is something that he and his wife Gail have discussed for years, and that it was not easy to come to and that timing it was always going to be difficult, but after 14 years on CBS Radio's WOMC-FM (104.3), he'll step away from his morning-talk mic March 26... Radio legend Dick Purtan to sign off after 45 years (Thu, 2/11)

After 39 years in Detroit radio, preceded by stints in his hometown of Buffalo and Cincinnati, Dick Purtan enters broadcast Valhalla on Saturday night in Chicago. The morning mirthmaker will be inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame... Flashback: Dick Purtan on his career, inspiration (republished Thu, 2/11)

WDIV-TV Channel 4:

Detroit radio legend Dick Purtan announced moments ago he is retiring. Purtan has worked in radio for 45 years. He has hosted the morning show at WOMC since April 1996. He said he has loved the job with all his heart, but the passion is not there anymore. He said he will spend the next two months doing radio like he has been and then he looks forward to throwing away the alarm clock... Dick Purtan To Leave WOMC (Thu, 2/11)

WXYZ-TV Channel 7:

Longtime Detroit radio personality Dick Purtan has announced he is retiring from the airwaves, effective March 26. Purtan made the announcement on his WOMC-FM radio program Thursday morning. In making the announcement, he said "I was trying to put off retirement until the Lions made it to the Superbowl but frankly, I've got to get some sleep." Purtan also said "It's been my honor to have been welcomed into the homes and lives of the people of Southeast Michigan for the part 45 years. It's been a ball... and besides all of the fun, I hope we've made a difference." In addition to his on-air work, Purtan has work tirelessly for charity... Dick Purtan To Retire (Thu, 2/11)

WJBK-TV Channel 2:

One of Detroit's most popular radio hosts is calling it a career. Dick Purtan announced Thursday that he will retire this Spring. The longtime host of the morning show on 104.3 WOMC says his last day will be March 26... Dick Purtan Says He's Retiring in March (Thu, 2/11)

MLive.com:

Detroiters received some sad news this morning during their daily commutes -- longtime local radio host Dick Purtan announced he would be retiring in late March of this year. Purtan has been on the air in Detroit since 1965, first at Top 40s stations WKNR and WKQI before landing at WOMC, where he has been entertaining morning listeners since 1996... Detroit radio legend Dick Purtan announces plans to retire (Thu, 2/11)

Detroit Free Press:

It has been some 19 years since Paul Carey left the Tigers' radio booth. For almost a generation, Carey was the voice of the middle three innings during Tigers broadcasts. He also was Ernie Harwell's engineer and an owner of a pretty memorable voice in his own right. Carey worked at WJR for 35 years. At 81, he still loves the game, the team he covered and the state that produced him. Free Press sports writer Shawn Windsor recently caught up with Carey at his home in Rochester. Q: What have you been doing the last 19 years?... Radio voice Paul Carey: Life after the Tigers (Thu, 2/11)

WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) anchor Stephen Clark, Pete Misiak of WJR-AM (760), WJBK-TV (Channel 2) sports anchor Dan Miller and other local personalties are stepping away from their day gigs to share the stage in the Spotlight Players' presentation of Neil Simon's "Barefoot in the Park" ... WEMU-FM (89.1) is hosting a benefit Saturday at Ann Arbor's Northside Grill, where the station's personalities will wait on tables. All tips go to WEMU, a public station... Names and Faces (Thu, 2/11)

Detroit News:

Hockeytown loves the Winter Olympics. While NBC overspent for the rights to show competitive cold-weather sports and stands to lose a whopping $250 million as a result, Red Wings fans and the network's local affiliate, WDIV, will reap the rewards when the 2010 Vancouver Games begin Friday. And it doesn't matter Red Wings captain Nick Lidstrom will be playing for Sweden. The point is: He'll be playing ... For Olympic junkies who enjoyed seeing events live on the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. (CBC) in years past -- you're out of luck this year. The International Olympic Committee awarded the Canadian broadcasting rights to the 2010 Vancouver Games and 2012 Summer Olympics in London to CTV Inc. That means there is no longer continuous, live Olympic coverage on CBC for audiences in Michigan. CTV is not available in Michigan... WDIV stands to be a winner with NBC (Thu, 2/11)

WDIV set to air Our Journey To Haiti special

WDIV-TV will be presenting a one-of-kind television event, Our Journey To Haiti, which is scheduled to air Thursday, February 11 at 8 p.m. Local 4 News anchor Carmen Harlan and Good Health reporter Dr. Frank McGeorge are the only local television journalists to travel to Haiti to report on the devastation first hand. The program follows their life-changing journey with never-before-seen footage of heartache and hope in the wake of the devastating earthquake.

In Our Journey To Haiti, an all-new half-hour primetime special presentation, Carmen shares the video of her extraordinary and emotional reunion with her own relatives living in Port-au-Prince. Dr. McGeorge, an emergency room doctor at Detroit's Henry Ford Hospital, takes viewers along as he carries out his mission of saving lives treating the injured in a makeshift clinic.

Local 4 and Forgotten Harvest have partnered with other distinguished local organizations to launch Help 4 Haiti, a major relief effort that has already raised nearly one million dollars worth of total aid. Partnering with Walgreens, the Detroit Pistons, Project Medishare, Cross International, WJR, Detroit Media Partnership, TMT, Michigan Business and Professional Association, Michigan Food and Beverage Association and over 30 local urban and suburban churches, Help 4 Haiti is sending food, water and desperately needed medical supplies donated by metro Detroiters the hardest hit areas in Haiti.

Help 4 Haiti donations continue to be accepted through Local 4's website, ClickOnDetroit.com.

WJR's Smith all shook up in Chicago

WJR morning host Paul W. Smith is broadcasting live from the Chicago Auto Show during his program this week (5:30 - 9 a.m.) and had the added bonus this morning of being in the Windy City as a minor earthquake struck Illinois. No word if any coffee was spilled or not.

Detroit News:

Hockeytown loves the Winter Olympics. While NBC overspent for the rights to show competitive cold-weather sports and stands to lose a whopping $250 million as a result, Detroit Red Wings' fans and the network's local affiliate, WDIV-TV (Channel 4), will reap the rewards when the 2010 Winter Olympics begin Friday. And it doesn't matter that Red Wings captain Nicklas Lidstrom will be playing for Sweden. The point is: He'll be playing. "Locally, the Winter Olympics attracts a lot of eyeballs that might otherwise be watching cable sports," says Marla Drutz, WDIV's vice president and general manager. "There's a lot of value to advertisers and our viewers. After all, Metro Detroit loves a good hockey game." The Winter Olympics have long been a TV favorite locally, in part because people here tend to participate in and follow these sports. The same affinity, however, is not shared in states with warmer climes... Winter Olympics promises to be a boon for WDIV (Wed, 2/10)

AllAccess.com:

CRAWFORD BROADCASTING Christian WMUZ/DETROIT morning show "THE MORNING LIGHT" and host SHANNYN CALDWELL will hold the "FIFTH MORNING LIGHT JOY FLASH MOB" at the MIDTOWN WINTER BLAST in downtown DETROIT on FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12th. At a specified time and location, the song "JOY" by Gospel artist NIYOKI will begin to play and the group will begin to dance. "Our first JOY FLASH MOB was over 200 dancers and we've not yet had a group smaller than 100 people. That's a whole lot of joy," said CALDWELL... WMUZ Morning Show Plans 5th Joy Flash Mob (Wed, 2/10)

WWJ's THAW radiothon helps raise $316,000

Listeners to WWJ's AM 950 seventh annual radiothon to benefit The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) pledged over $316,000 during the event on Friday and Saturday. Those donations will translate to more than $600,000 in emergency utility assistance to low-to-moderate income individuals and families in Michigan.

An online auction continues through Thursday at 6 p.m.; visit and bid by clicking here.

Jay Towers slides back behind the mic

Clear Channel puts Jay Towers back to work behind a microphone, hiring him to host from 9am - 4pm on My106.1 in Philadelphia. He'll still be working here in Detroit on weekends too as part of the Fox 2 News team.

Detroit News:

Get ready to feel a slap across the face, Detroit, when PBS airs "Blueprint America: Beyond the Motor City ." The special, which airs at 10 tonight on WTVS-TV (Channel 56), opens with a light-rail director in Madrid talking about the importance of infrastructure before cutting to Detroit's infamous eyesore, Michigan Central Station. Producers also discuss how the Big Three hobbled public transportation in the area... PBS special rides Detroit's shortcomings (Mon, 2/8)

Detroit Free Press:

The Detroit Tigers announced their television schedule for this season: 156 games on Fox Sports Detroit, one on Fox Sports Plus and four on Fox. FSD also will air four spring-training games. The lone regular-season game without TV plans is April 7 at Kansas City, the second game of the year. The Tigers, Red Wings and Pistons all are scheduled to be in action at the same time, and the Wings are ticketed for FSD and the Pistons FS-Plus. The network is trying to determine whether it can also distribute the Tigers game... Tigers announce TV schedule, including four spring-training games (Mon, 2/8)

WDTW-FM adds Billy the Kidd

Adult rhythmic 106.7 The Beat, WDTW-FM, has added Billy the Kidd to its lineup for evenings starting on Monday. Kidd got his start in radio as an intern for Lisa Lisa - who herself signs on with The Beat for middays on Monday.

Detroit Free Press:

A half-hour documentary from the Detroit Free Press, "Rising from the Wreckage," is to broadcast on WWJ-TV (CBS Detroit) at 8:30 a.m. Sunday. It was produced in conjunction with an eight-part Free Press report published in December chronicling 18-months in which the auto industry nearly collapsed and two automakers were rescued by the federal government... Free Press documentary to air Sunday (Sat, 2/6)

7th WWJ Radiothon for THAW underway

CBS Radio/Detroit has kicked the first of their 2010 annual Radiothons with all-news WWJ AM 950 helping to raise money for The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) throughout today and up until noon tomorrow.

The 7th Annual WWJ Newsradio 950 Winter Survival Radiothon is on live from the MGM Grand Detroit to help raise much needed funds for THAW. THAW provides emergency utility assistance to help low-to-moderate income individuals and families in Michigan stay safe and warm during the winter season.

Live interviews with families that THAW has helped will air during the 31 hour Radiothon as will on-air check presentations from sponsors, on-site reporting, and much more. An on-site donation call center will be set up with volunteers taking phone pledges and online donations can be made at WWJ.com. Donors can also call (888) 579-4950.

Listeners are being encouraged to donate by on-air prompting, incentive programs, and other special Radiothon promotions. This year, you can join the 950 Club by donating $250 - you'll recieve a WWJ/THAW thermos to help warm you up this winter plus Mountain Country Coffee courtesy of Coffee Express. Another option is to join the Circle of Warmth Club by donating $1,000 to receive a free energy audit courtesy of Flame Heating, Cooling and Electrical. Additionally, listeners will be encouraged to bid on numerous items available through an Online Auction website.

The goal for this year's THAW Radiothon is $700,000.

On February 26th, look for CBS Radio/Detroit WOMC-FM 104.3 morning host Dick Purtan's 23rd annual Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Club from Oakland Mall in Troy. The Bed and Bread program brings food, shelter and services to people within our community and provides assistance to get them back on their feet. In December, CBS' WYCD hosted its 10th annual campaign to help raise money for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

AnnArbor.com:

Great news for fans of radio, jazz and/or nice people: Linda Yohn plans to be back on WEMU radio starting Monday after a roughly two-month absence. The longtime morning-show host and and program director at WEMU (89.1-FM), the public-radio station at Eastern Michigan University, took a leave of absence in early December to have a tumor removed from her lung... Linda Yohn returning to WEMU airwaves (Fri, 2/5)

Lisa Orlando (Lisa Lisa) returns to the airwaves on 106.7 Feb. 8

Good news for fans of party radio queen Lisa Lisa as she's returning full time to the airwaves of Detroit starting on Monday. She'll be heard from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on adult rhythmic WDTW-FM 106.7, The Beat.

Good news too for fans of The Beat as the station expands their efforts by adding a second hosted daypart - the Joe Show (Joe Rosati) currently holds down afternoon drive (3 - 7 p.m.). The station launched its latest format this past September.

As for Lisa Lisa, she's obviously happy to be back playing the music that keeps her many fans moving telling Michiguide.com, "I am sooo very excited to be joining the wonderful group of talent being assembled at The Beat! Our metro Detroit community has been so beat-down as of late and I look forward to bring some "feel good music" back!! As Fergie says, 'I'll be rockin' them beats'!!!"

WMUZ and WJR help raise funds for charity

WMUZ-FM 103.5 listeners working with Compassion International pledged over $85,000 on Monday for earthquake relief in Haiti. Compassion will use the funds raised to re-equip Compassions' local support infrastructure and provide food, water, shelter, medical and counseling services to victims. Up to 25% of the funds raised will be donated to partner with other ministries to meet needs that are beyond the scope of their program.

Visit wmuz.com for more information.

Detroiters once again proved that they are super supporters of the local community by raising over $22,000 last night at an event held at Art Van Furniture to benefit S.A.Y. Detroit ("Super All Year") Charity. Five hundred people came to hear Mitch Albom - best-selling author and popular radio and television broadcaster- speak about his best selling book Have a Little Faith and why he formed S.A.Y. Detroit Charity in 2006 during the Super Bowl to help the homeless in Detroit.

"With the power of the pen and microphone, Mr. Albom has brought voice to the voiceless," stated Gary Van Elslander, President of Art Van Furniture. "He has focused attention on the many Detroiters who are struggling everyday to meet the basic needs of shelter, food and medicine."

The evening began with Albom's live broadcast on WJR Newstalk 760 from the Art Van store in Warren where Mr. Van Elslander announced that they will match donations up to $10,000. Later Albom talked about the story behind his new nationally acclaimed book, and the progress of his important charity.

Pastor Henry Covington, the lead minister of I Am My Brother's Keeper church in Detroit, joined Albom to wrap up the event for open questioning. The church and minister served as an inspiration for Albom's new book.

Donations will continue to be accepted throughout the week. This marks one of the many charity events Art Van Furniture hosts throughout the year to benefit charities throughout Michigan during these tough times.

To learn more about Art Van Furniture's charitable efforts or to donate to S.A.Y. Detroit go to artvan.com.

WDIV's Dr. Frank McGeorge gets national ink for Haiti work

Yesterday's edition of USA Today featured Local 4 News Good Health reporter Dr. Frank McGeorge and recent trip to Haiti offer emergency medical assistance and report for Local 4:

Detroit emergency physician Frank McGeorge says nothing could have prepared him for what he saw in Haiti. Television doesn't do it any justice, says McGeorge, who flew there to help just days after the quake hit Jan. 12. "Unless you're there, you can't really see it, hear it or smell it. The experience is so immersive and painful," he says. Though it was his first time treating victims of a major catastrophe, even doctors seasoned in treating disaster victims say Haiti was unlike anything they've experienced before... U.S. doctors say Haiti stands out from other disasters (Tue, 2/2)

column written by Mike Austerman

Last week's news that the FCC is going to allow FM stations to increase their output power from 1% of their analog output to up to 10% prompted lots of coverage. It's a polarizing issue between those that continue to promote HD as the next big thing for free FM radio and those that think the idea continues to be a horrible mistake that just keeps getting worse.

Truth be told I don't know where I stand, as I can see both sides. I guess I tend to lean toward the technology -- at least for FM -- hoping that the addition of programming can help fill broadcast holes that wouldn't otherwise be served. A quick example: In Angola, Indiana pop WLKI FM 100.3 has recently added HD2 and HD3 programming, providing the area with a sports format (ESPN Radio) and a rock format. Maybe even more intriguing, both formats are also available to analog listeners via FM translators that were recently purchased and moved to Angola. If it weren't for HD, listeners wouldn't have those extra options.

The biggest argument against HD appears to be concerns over interference. If it turns the FM dial into the mess AM has become since HD has come online, this position will be validated. My guess is that many of the protests come from owners of 'rimshot' stations that rely on listeners from nearby larger markets to help keep their stations afloat. If listeners they have today get blocked by IBOC stations, it could very well impact whether or not some of these stations survive. Is this really what the FCC wants -- fewer voices on the airwaves?

In Detroit, the situation could be even worse should HD-caused interference affect stations from nearby southwestern Ontario, which has recently added a number of FMs. Most are just two clicks away on the dial from powerful Detroit FM's that could very well increase digital power and create much more interference in Canada. It'll be interesting to see what happens if/when the juice gets turned up on local HDs.

One thing I can say without hesitation though - if all of this is going to wind up being worth it, a lot more effort is going to be needed in programming the HD2 and HD3 stations to entice listeners to upgrade their radios.

On a personal note, I pheel compelled to mention a recent loss to the radio phamily. Listeners to Phlash Phelps' morning show (6am - noon ET) on SiriusXM's 60's on 6 understand the connection he had with his beloved beagle Clyde, who was probably one of the best traveled dogs of all time. Phlash and Clyde were best buds phor over 14 years and stuck together through numerous radio gigs and together got the chance to visit 48 states, 5 provinces of Canada, 2 U.S. territories, and Washington D.C. Unfortunately, Clyde didn't make it to see his 15th birthday which would have been in June as he died on Saturday.

Phlash intends to take Clyde's ashes to both Alaska and Hawaii to complete the 50 state tour.

Listeners to the Phlash Phelps Phunny Pharm grew used to hearing Clyde's bark and amazing ability to phind nearly any song request listeners might make. While much of satellite radio can be impersonal, Phlash's program is a refreshing difference. I'm certainly proud to be a Phan and send my condolences to Phlash.

If you feel compelled, reach out to Phlash c/o XM Satellite Radio, 1500 Eckington Place NE, Washington, DC 20002.

column written by Art Vuolo, Jr.

After a long dry-spell, it seems I have a number of observations to share with you, the many fans of what comes out of your radio speaker. So, get comfortable.

I dislike starting off with sad news, but the recent passing of James H. Quello hit me hard as I first met him up in his office at WJR in the 1960's. I remember saying to him, "Why not call the station Junior Radio with Senior Sound." I think he wanted to throw me out of the 22nd story of the Fisher Building! I last saw him up at Crystal Mountain Resort during a Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB) summer conference about 5 years ago. He was pushing 90 and looked sensational.

After his reign at WJR as general manager he moved on, eventually becoming one of the best remembered FCC commissioners ever. He was beloved in Washington, DC. Although maybe he wasn't "beloved" by Howard Stern, with whom he tangled in the 1990s. But I'll bet Howard respected him as a guy who'd earned his way up the ranks. He wasn't an Al Sikes-style bureaucrat (it was Sikes on whom Stern once wished cancer).

Current FCC Chair Julius Genachowski called him, "A role model to generations of FCC employees and advocates, for his decency, personal charm and commitment to his work."

NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith said, "We have lost an American original."

Jim Quello was one of a kind, the type of broadcaster you can read about in books, but perhaps never actually meet in person. I'm glad that I did.

Speaking of Mr. Stern, and I hate giving him more "ink" since that's what he's very good at doing, whenever he feels he's been off the "front page" for too long he starts tongues a waggin' with reports (that he starts) about leaving Sirius XM satellite radio and segueing back to terrestrial FM radio.

Ain't gonna happen.

It's all talk to help him renegotiate his deal with Sirius XM head honcho Mel Karmazin. The entire ploy is so obviously manipulative I don't know why the broadcast and print media can't see through it. Must have been a "slow news day" when this "news" broke.

I found the most hysterical part of this situation the offer from Clear Channel, the behemoth conglomerate that Stern hates, to have him work for them! That ain't gonna happen either.

Funniest photo was in a trade Tom Taylor edits called www.radio-info.com showing a picture of a Clear Channel executive, presumed to be CC radio boss John Hogan, with a bouquet of roses as a "peace offering" to the self-proclaimed King of All Media. Stern said, "I can't imagine the day where I would ever work for them again."

Stern and Bubba still have hard feelings about the way they left Clear Channel nearly six years ago.

Meanwhile Hogan emailed this statement to Business Week, "We clearly have the willingness and the financial wherewithal to consider high-profile talent such as Stern."

Of course any talks with him would be heavily lawyered so that he would have to deliver an FCC-friendly show. Again...ain't gonna happen. So to all who fell for this well orchestrated ploy, how could you all be so freakin' gullible?

In an unrelated story, we also just watched the left-leaning Air America Network go off the air, which will no doubt have Rush Limabuagh, Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck along with the rest gloating over this Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation filing - though some of the conservative talkers predicted this would happen in 2004, soon after Air America's March 31 launch. Insiders felt they didn't have enough experienced radio talent and management, though Al Franken was a pretty fast learner and Randi Rhodes is an obvious radio pro. Now, with talkers like Ed Schultz, Bill Press, Lionel, Stephanie Miller and Rhodes, there is no shortage of left-leaning progressive talk show talent.

The local twist to this story is AM 1310 WDTW. For longtime Detroit radio fans, we can remember when this now beleaguered frequency was once the number one station in the metro area as the legendary WKNR Keener 13 (by the way, radio enthusiasts can go into overload about this top 40 dynasty of the 1960's at www.keener13.com or at www.detroitradioflashbacks.net). Well now that Air America is history, this 5,000 watt signal emanating from those six towers along I-94 in Allen Park, might just start to gain a spot on one of your AM car radio buttons. Since most talk radio is decidedly right-wing conservative with an agenda attracting a largely Republican audience, it's nice to have an alternative offering a different point of view.

The new line-up on WDTW includes: Bill Press 6-9 am, Stephanie Miller 9-noon, Thom Hartman noon-3 pm, Ed Schultz 3-6 pm Replays of Bill Press & Stephanie Miller 6-10 pm, Alan Colmes 10 pm-1 am and Joey Reynolds 1 am-6 am. This schedule is not bad. Sadly, there are no LOCAL shows, it all comes via satellite and network syndication.

In a perfect world I would love to hear it over on the FM band at 106.7, now trying to re-invent itself as "The Beat of Detroit." Truthfully that frequency hasn't been a real winner since it was W4 Country, which vacated Labor Day weekend in 1999 and it became Alice 106.7. It was also known as The Drive, The Fox and now The Beat.

As mentioned in my last column we could really use a decent FM talker in this town. Some of these WDTW shows, mixed in with a liberal dose of local talent, could be a winner for Clear Channel, which owns these stations. Talk radio can be expensive, and nobody is spending money during these difficult economic times.

Aside from all of this, I am personally most thrilled with the addition of Joey Reynolds overnights at 1310 AM. Although I am right on the far west fringe of the highly directional night-time signal, I can still hear it at my house in Novi. Joey, who worked at WXYZ-AM (1270) in 1966 for a brief six months, is still remembered by many dedicated local radio fans. He was so outrageous in those days and cycled through 38 radio jobs throughout his checkered career.

He's also one of very few radio personalities enshrined into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland (one of the many cities he also once worked in).

Joey did an encore appearance as morning host for a couple of months in 1984 when local (but nationally known) consultant Gary Berkowitz brought him into WHYT-FM (96.3), now WDVD. His current home, for a remarkable 14+ years, is New York's WOR-AM (710) - the oldest station in New York and considered to be America's first talk station. Today, Joey does a variety talk show with little if any talk about political issues. He packs his studio nightly with comics, singers, actors and a plethora of entertainers. It's truly a different type of talk radio and will soon be even more unique as it will soon be a triple-cast on radio, NBC-TV 2 and on the Internet live from a street level showcase studio in Times Square!

Check out Joey's show either late at night or early in the morning. WDTW 1310 AM does not currently stream, but the New York flagship station does at www.wor710.com.

Where are they now?

Local country music fans will long remember Joe Wade Formicola at both W4 FM (106.7) and at WYCD-FM (99.5) and have wondered what he's doing today. Well, similar to Tom Shannon, who seemingly bounced back and forth between Detroit and Buffalo, Joe Wade ran a similar track between Detroit and Raleigh, NC and WRAL-FM. Now, the venerable favorite is following the advice of Horace (Go West Young Man...Go West) Greeley. In fact his destination won't be far from the town of Greeley, CO as Formicola pulls his snow shovel out of the attic and heads to Denver where he will work on their syndicated country format. The company is Dial Global (formerly Jones Radio) and it's where CKLW vet, and mostly recently at WOMC, Ted "The Bear" Richards worked doing mornings on their oldies format for over 15 years. The DG studios are in Englewood on the south side of Denver, so perhaps there will be less snow there. Joe Wade most recently was with WRSF in Nags Head, NC.

"Joe has a strong programming background and is a great jock," commented DG's EVP of Programming chief Beau Phillips.

It's nice to see one of the decent people catch a good break.

Brian Hatfield is another one of the early WYCD jocks who worked with Joe Wade - and Hatfield is STILL in North Carolina. He's from the Detroit area and has been doing very well for a number of years down in Asheville, NC as the afternoon jock and music director for WKSF-FM. So, he's not really working for Krispy Kreme Donuts.

The photo shows a sweet gift from Jason Aldean's record label to kick off his concert tour. After polishing off the box, Brian and his buddies were said to be more glazed than the donuts.

Speaking of food, I realize this is a radio column, but who in radio doesn't love to eat? I seriously want to put you wise to a phenomenal restaurant called Jordan's II in Romulus. It's on the eastside of Merriman Road just south of Van Borne, only 2 miles north of Metro Airport. The atmosphere is a C-, but both the food and the prices are an A+. Huge portions, excellent food and (as Crazy Eddie in NYC used to say) low prices that are insane. If you're making an airport run around mealtime this is the place to chow-down. Check it out.

A personal note to WXYT-FM/AM 97.1/1270 'The Ticket' big boss Tom Bigby and PD Jimmy Powers, who still seem to be messing with the morning show hosts. As I stated in my last column the combo of Bill, Sara and Stoney is sensational. Don't mess with it. Of course I'm NOT the program director, but I (like many of you) know when something good comes out of the radio speaker.

Lisa Orlando, as reported here in michiguide.com, has surfaced at 106.7 FM The Beat along with the Joe Show in the afternoon giving a bit of a human element to the otherwise music machine. She is best known as Lisa Lisa from WDRQ, WOMC, and WHYT. She has been making the rounds hasn't she?

Lastly, WDFN-AM (1130) home improvement host Murray Gula, heard mid-days on the weekend, should be streaming his program with video on the Internet by this weekend while he's on the air over the 50,000 watt sports station. He will be at the big Home Show at Novi's huge Rock Financial Center this weekend, January 30-31.

You can watch the remote broadcast on his web site: www.whocanbuildit.com.

Reach Art Vuolo at artvuolo@aol.com or visit his web site at vuolovideo.com

WDIV anchor Carmen Harlan to report from Haiti

WDIV-TV Local 4 News anchor Carmen Harlan will travel to Haiti to report on the devastation and despair in the wake of destructive earthquakes that have rocked the impoverished nation. Starting Thursday, January 28, Carmen's special reports will be featured on Local 4 News at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m.

"After seeing Dr. McGeorge's gut-wrenching reports from Haiti, it's now more clear than ever how desperately this country needs our help," said Harlan, who herself has relatives living on the island. "I'll be travelling there to bring you first-hand stories of personal heartache, and of undying hope."

Local 4's Good Health reporter Dr. Frank McGeorge, an emergency room doctor at Detroit's Henry Ford Hospital, recently returned from Haiti where, in addition to reporting on the conditions on Local 4 News, he carried out his mission of saving lives by treating the injured in a makeshift clinic.

"The devastation is just incredible, the amount of destruction was honestly more than I had expected having seen the news reports at home," said Dr. McGeorge. "We encountered a second wave of casualties, those who survived the initial quake, but whose injuries or infections continue to put their lives at risk. I'm glad to have been there and have be able to help in every way I could."

Local 4 and Forgotten Harvest have partnered with other distinguished local organizations to launch Help 4 Haiti, a major relief effort that has already raised over $600,000 worth of total aid. Partnering with Walgreens, the Detroit Pistons, Project Medishare, Cross International, WJR, Detroit Media Partnership, TMT, Michigan Business and Professional Association, Michigan Food and Beverage Association and over 30 local urban and suburban churches, Help 4 Haiti is sending food, water and desperately needed medical supplies donated by metro Detroiters the hardest hit areas in Haiti.

"Despite facing a dire economic crisis, the people and organizations of metro Detroit have once again proven that they will leap to the aid of others in need," said Russ Russell, Forgotten Harvest Chief Development Officer. "Forgotten Harvest is proud to be a part of the consortium of giving and will continue in its efforts to offer hope and sustenance to those less fortunate."

Help 4 Haiti monetary donations can be made now during Local 4 Newscasts by calling the WDIV phone bank at (313) 298-WDIV, or 24 hours a day by calling toll-free at (888) 332-7140. Online contributions can be made at www.forgottenharvest.org, or through links posted at ClickOnDetroit.com. In addition, household medical supply items purchased at nearly 100 metro Detroit Walgreens locations can be donated in the Help 4 Haiti drop box at each store.

WDTW AM's new lineup revealed

With the demise of Air America, talker WDTW AM 1310 has plugged in the Joey Reynolds show for overnights (1 - 6 a.m.) and airs a rebroadcast of the Bill Press program from 6 - 9 p.m., replacing the Ron Reagan Show.

An inquiry to the station on programming changes has not been replied to.

Veteran jock gets The Beat

Lisa Orlando, better known as Lisa Lisa, was been detected by listeners to adult rhythmic WDTW-FM 106.7 this past Sunday evening. No word from the Clear Channel camp if the assignment is permanent or what air shifts Orlando might be assigned to.

Lisa Lisa was last heard hosting weekends for WOMC-FM 104.3 and is best known for stints on WDRQ-FM 93.1 and what was then WHYT-FM 96.3.

Detroit Free Press:

When Dr. Frank McGeorge describes what it was like in Haiti last week, it's with the precision of a medical expert and the emotions of someone who's seen the earthquake-ravaged nation up close. The tent cities he saw didn't have many tents. "They consist largely of sticks that are stuck in the ground that are holding up a piece of string that is holding up a blanket, a sheet or some rags," he said Monday after returning to the United States ... McGeorge, an emergency room doctor at Henry Ford Hospital who covers health topics for WDIV-TV (Channel 4), arrived in Haiti late on Jan. 19 to do double-duty as a physician and reporter. Tim Pamplin, the Channel 4 photographer known for his NightCam segments, accompanied him... Assignment Haiti (Wed, 1/27)

MAB Says Goodbye to Former FCC Chairman and Michigan Broadcast Pioneer James H. Quello

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters sent out this release today on the death of James Quello:

It is with a heavy heart that the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB) announces the death of our friend, Michigan native, broadcast pioneer, MAB Past President and former FCC Chairman, James H. Quello. Quello died Sunday, January 24 surrounded by friends and family at his Alexandria, VA home after heart and kidney failure. He was 95.

Quello, a World War II Lieutenant and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army and a war hero, started his career in radio broadcasting immediately after returning from Europe in 1945. He worked in the promotions department at WXYZ-AM (Detroit) and two years later moved to rival station WJR-AM (Detroit). He later became Vice President and General Manager of WJR-AM in 1960.

Quello was one of the original MAB members. He supported and helped to build the association from a small group of radio managers looking for representation on legal issues to what it currently is today - a nationally-recognized association representing more than 300 Michigan radio and television stations. Jim served as president of the MAB in 1959 and credited the MAB, his colleagues and friends from Michigan for mounting a campaign to get him appointed to the FCC in 1974. He served there until 1997 when he retired. For eleven months in 1993, Quello was the Acting Chairman of the FCC. He was honored with the prestigious MAB Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993 and many other awards too numerous to mention is this brief article. You could always find our friend Jim attending MAB conferences - catching up with old Michigan broadcast friends during a reception or participating in a tennis match - Jim was one of us and we will miss him.

This past Friday, January 22, MAB President/CEO Karole White spoke briefly with Jim:

"Weak and frail he used his limited breath to be uplifting to me," said White. "He thanks his friends in the MAB, 'The Greatest Broadcasting Association in the States,' he said. I'm to tell everyone he loves them and good bye (from Jim)."

Funeral arrangements are pending.

WZZM-TV Grand Rapids:

James Henry Quello, a one-time broadcaster who served as an FCC commissioner for 24 years, and as acting FCC chairman in 1993, died today at age 95. Appointed to the FCC in 1974 by then President Richard Nixon, Quello, a Democrat, kept winning reappointments to the commission until 1998, when he retired. He was named acting chairman of the FCC in 1993, bridging the gap between the tenure of Republican Albert Sikes and Democratic appointee, Reed Hundt. Quello's initial appointment to the FCC sparked protests from consumer advocate Ralph Nader, who called the new commissioner "a pawn for broadcasters." Although his tenure as acting chairman of the FCC was brief, the New York Times described his tenure with the headline, "Temporary Chief Proves More Than a Fill-In." As an FCC commissioner, Quelo became known for his independent thinking. He championed the preservation of free universal television and he sat on the commission as it and the media transitioned into the Information Age, during a period of revolutionary technological change and the birth of the Internet... Michigan native and former Detroit Radio manager James Quello dies (Sun, 1/24)

Crain's Detroit Business:

Michigan's still-nebulous 2010 gubernatorial race situation -- along with a number of Congressional and state office races -- could see a spending explosion on broadcast media triggered by last week's U.S. Supreme Court decision that loosened some restrictions on corporate and nonprofit campaign advertising spending. Local television executives say it's too soon to estimate what financial impact the changes to the McCain-Feingold Act will have, but they do expect to see advertising revenue increases because of the court ruling and Michigan's wide-open election situation. "I don't know what impact it will have here. You'd have to have a very active crystal ball here to predict that," said Marla Drutz, vice president and general manager WDIV-Ch. 4, Detroit's NBC affiliate. "I think overall there's a lot of political activity. That does translate positively for media"... TV stations expect increase in political advertising from court ruling (Mon, 1/25)

Detroit Free Press:

Nearing the end of life's journey, all of us have a tendency to look back -- often with regret. It happened to me last week as I read the record of my grades at Emory University, rediscovering that I was not a good student. If that's not the understatement of the 21st Century, it's close. Like saying Marie Antoinette died of a sore throat or Brigham Young was a married man. I was a bad student because of majoring in everything except study. I was much too busy editing the Emory Wheel newspaper, misguiding my SAE fraternity and dancing life away. I was concentrating on being an entrepreneur -- a nicer way of saying a promoter or hustler. One of my ventures into such activity was my first foray into the world of music... Too busy hustling for study (Mon, 1/25)

...You never really know what you're gonna get - at least when it comes to programming on Detroit's HD subchannels.

Recent changes to the offerings on CBS Radio's WYCD-FM 99.5 and WOMC-FM 104.3 include the shifting of PhysicRadio (now called New Sky Radio) from WYCD-HD3 to WOMC-HD3 and the addition of MichiganSaver Radio to WYCD-HD3. Visitors to either station's web site wouldn't know this though as neither clearly makes mention of their HD3 offerings - but you can learn more at either MichiganSaver.com or www.newskyradio.com.

The idea behind MichiganSaver Radio is intriguing as a new way to tie advertisers and cost-conscious consumers together. CBS Radio Detroit provided the following info in a release:

Both the station (WYCD-FM 99.5-HD3) and website are designed with the cost-conscious consumer in mind. The MichiganSaver brand is 100% devoted to Michigan consumers and connects them to the best deals and cost savings available.

MichiganSaver.com is the first stop: a website where consumers can find ways to save money and make money, no matter how they like to shop. Among the programs offered at MichiganSaver.com are:


• Michigan Half Off, where consumers have the opportunity to purchase merchant or restaurant certificates and tickets at half price.

• Michigan Saver Classifieds, which allows consumers to post ads to sell goods they no longer need, or buy items from others.

• Michigan Saver Click-It Coupons are free-to-the-consumer money-saving coupons from local merchants that they can download and print on their home computers.

• SavingsAngel is a paid subscription service for the avid coupon clipper.

• GreenBack Street, an online shopping program that features hundreds of national and regional retail sites and offers a cash-back incentive to consumers who begin their shopping trip through the GreenBack Street portal.


MichiganSaver Radio ties all these programs together and helps consumers make the most of them. MichiganSaver Radio will air local and national news and will provide Michigan consumers with news they can use.

"MichiganSaver Radio is an exciting new radio station and website that will help consumers make the most of their money," noted Tim Roberts, Operations Manager of MichiganSaver Radio. "Our goal is to give our listeners one location with a variety of ways to save and stretch their hard earned dollars."

In addition, MichiganSaver Radio will air such shows as "Home Talk," "Car Clinic," "Garden Life," and "Computer America." These shows are provided through Business Talk Radio Network and will provide Michigan consumers with advice and info.

Another relatively new HD3 addition is on FM 103.5 where WMUZ now rebroadcasts its WRDT AM 560, providing an interference-free option for those with HD radios to hear that station. WMUZ's HD2 regularly features contemporary Christian music programming.

While the remainder of the HD2 offerings up and the dial don't appear to have changed formats of late, it's still somewhat surprising to observe the number of times when they are not functioning properly. In recent weeks, I've had several instances where WDTW-FM's country/rock HD2 channel is totally offline as well as not hearing any audio from gospel WMXD-HD2.

There are bright spots on the local HD2 lineup, including a WWJ AM simulcast on WXYT-FM 97.1 HD2, the smooth jazz format on WVMV-FM 98.7 HD2, and the longest running digital offerings in town, 94.7 WCSX-FM's Deep Trax and 101.1 WRIF-FM's Riff2.

Oldies fans can tune in to WOMC-HD2 and a more eclectic 'we play everything' format on WDRQ-FM 93.1 HD2. Pop music of various styles dominates on WKQI-FM 95.5 HD2, WDVD-FM 96.3 HD2, WNIC-FM 100.3 HD2, and WMGC-FM 105. HD2. Fans of classic Hip Hop can tune in to WJLB-FM 97.9 HD2. WYCD's HD2 features more of its country music format and WDET-FM's HD2 heavily features a variety of musical styles.

One of the biggest opportunities to market these stations is for the most part being missed - trying to find information on the vast majority of the HD2 and HD3 stations just isn't available easily from the respective stations' web sites. It seems hard that you'll succeed in convincing listeners on the product when it appears to be treated as nothing more than an afterthought. It's hard to understand what you're going to hear - and why you should listen without at least some sort of explanation.

Other opportunities could be for either WDRQ or WDVD to add sister station WJR as one of their HDs to catch those who might have trouble receiving interference-free reception of AM. And maybe for the other to work out a deal to rebroadcast the kids-targeted format of Radio Disney heard locally on WFDF AM 910 - but not listened to by many due to the station's poor reception and audio quality. WFDF rarely appears on any Arbitron reports with any market share despite a published report stating that Radio Disney continued to gain listeners in other parts of the country in 2009.

WOMC adds Edmonds and DuFord for Sunday duties

Nice of WOMC to at least give some part time opportunities to veteran jocks Chris Edmonds and Stacey DuFord who are now hosting 'Sunday Brunch' from 10 am - 2 pm on the classic hits outlet. The show schedule runs at least through July - each week the duo is scheduled to broadcast live from advertiser locations around Metro Detroit.

Edmonds was most recently morning host at WNIC and has a long career in metro Detroit. DuFord is probably best known as part of Jim Harper's morning team on WNIC and is now seen as a spokesperson for Belle Tire.

Lineup changes coming to WDTW AM

I've received no response yet to an inquiry to Clear Channel Detroit about what its plans are for filling the programming void left by this week's Chapter 7 bankruptcy and shutdown of Air America Media for its WDTW AM 1310. In addition to providing many hours of overnight and weekend programming for WDTW, Air America's Ron Reagan show had been heard weekdays from 6 - 9 pm as well as Rachel Maddow from 5 - 6 am.

WDTW AM is one of the area's least listened to stations with a 0.2 share and cume of just 40,400 listeners in the December portable people mover report from Arbitron. The station is plagued with poor reception across much of the northern and eastern areas of Metro Detroit.

Lansing State Journal:

Comcast Corp. reached a lawsuit settlement that will allow customers with analog television service to continue viewing public access channels without change. The Philadelphia, Pa.-based telecommunications company's Michigan region settled a lawsuit with three communities regarding access to public, education and government (PEG) channels. The parties will ask the U.S. District Court to dismiss the pending suit. Meridian Township, Bloomfield Township and the city of Dearborn sued Comcast in January 2008 to prevent it from digitizing public access channels. They alleged the move was discriminatory against the public access channels and would have required analog customers to purchase a digital-ready television or a digital converter box to view the channels. Comcast wanted to move the public access channels from the basic tier to digital channels in order to free up bandwidth for more services and high definition channels, said spokeswoman Mary Beth Halprin. In the settlement, Comcast agreed to continue offering existing public access channels in analog format on the $15.99-per-month limited basic tier until the company digitizes the entire tier or until the communities agree to digitize the channels... Comcast settles suit on access to public channels (Sat, 1/23)

Detroit News:

Cameraman Joe Conrad was inside a traffic helicopter as it swept over Interstate 696 in Oakland County preparing for its morning rush hour report. Suddenly a strange noise rocked the helicopter, signaling engine failure to the crew of three, but their fate was in one man's hands -- pilot Joel Alexander. "It was frightening, when that engine died," Conrad said. "But I had complete confidence in Joel. He is like the Sully Sullenberger of the helicopter world." Alexander is being credited with saving the lives of the crew and landing the helicopter safely on the eastern edge of Oakland County Community College's Orchard Ridge Campus just after 8 a.m. this morning... Traffic helicopter pilot's safe landing saved lives, crew says (Fri, 1/22)

WJR AM:

WJR's Jetcopter made an emergency landing at Oakland Community College this morning. Everyone on board is ok... WJR Jetcoper Makes Emergency Landing; Paul W. Smith and pilot Joel Alexander discuss the incident (Fri, 1/22)

WWJ AM:

An emergency landing for the WWJ-Metro Networks traffic chopper Friday morning. WWJ traffic reporter Bill Szumanski and others in the chopper had to land at Oakland Community College at 12 Mile and Orchard Lake roads in Farmington Hills because of an engine fire. Farmington Hills police say the chopper was at about 800 to 1,000 feet in the air when it lost power and had to land. An Oakland Community College officer told Farmington Hills police he saw flames coming from the engine before the chopper landed on the sidewalk near the college's parking lot. No injuries are reported... Traffic Chopper Makes Emergency Landing (Fri, 1/22)

WXYZ-TV:

Channel 7 joined forces with the American Red Cross to bring "Help for Haiti." Thanks to you we were able to raise more than $178,227.40 during our telethon... Help For Haiti Telethon Raises $178,227 (Wed, 1/20)

Detroit Free Press:

As a young man growing up in the projects of Royal Oak Township, a community just north of Detroit, I have memories of watching and listening to the sights and sounds of sports. It was the late 1950s and early '60s, and most of the sights and sounds came by way of the radio. We'd hear the words and sounds while our imagination provided the sights -- put them together and it was all good. The next-best thing to being there. Soon those magnificent radio voices that had been our front-row ticket to the world of sports gave way to television. On the local scene, names like Al Ackerman and Dave Diles fed us a solid diet of sports, and the smooth and melodic voice of Charlie Neal delivered sports to our living rooms... Van Patrick helped kids connect with Lions (Thu, 1/21)

WDIV and partners helping with Haiti relief effort

WDIV-TV Detroit, Local 4, has announced a major relief effort, Help 4 Haiti, to raise funds that will send food, water and desperately needed medical supplies to the tens of thousands of people and families suffering through devastating after effects of the destructive earthquake in Haiti. Partnering with Forgotten Harvest, the Detroit Pistons, WJR, Walgreens, Project Medishare, Cross International and over 30 local urban and suburban churches, WDIV-TV Local 4's Help 4 Haiti will bring supplies donated by metro Detroiters to the hardest hit areas in Haiti.

Dr. Frank McGeorge, Local 4 News Good Health reporter and emergency room doctor at Detroit's Henry Ford Hospital, is on his way to Haiti to provide medical assistance in the field. Beginning Wednesday, January 20, he will report from the scene during Local 4 News Morning, Local 4 News at 5pm and 6pm and Local 4 News at 11pm. Traveling along with Dr. McGeorge, Local 4 News photographer Tim Pamplin, also known as the Nightcam, will share sights and sounds of the relief effort with viewers here at home.

"First and foremost I sincerely hope I will be able to help the injured. My training in Emergency Medicine will be perfectly suited for the situation," said Dr. McGeorge. "I also believe there will be incredible value in translating through the eyes of a doctor reports that will help viewers understand the magnitude of the tragedy."

Help 4 Haiti monetary donations can be made during Local 4 Newscasts by calling the WDIV phone bank at (313) 298-WDIV, or 24 hours a day by calling toll-free at (888) 332-7140. Online contributions can be made through links posted at ClickOnDetroit.com. Beginning Friday, Jan. 22, suggested items purchased at over 150 metro Detroit Walgreens locations can be donated in the Help 4 Haiti drop box at each store.

Crain's Detroit Business:

A look at metro Detroit's transportation and infrastructure will be featured in a new PBS special called "Blueprint America: Beyond the Motor City." It will air at 10 p.m. Feb. 8 on Detroit Public Television, Channel 56. A private reception, screening and panel discussion are scheduled for next Wednesday at the Detroit Public Library's main branch, sponsored by the station and the Troy-based Kresge Foundation... PBS special makes case for Detroit transportation, infrastructure upgrades (Tue, 1/19)

column written by Art Vuolo, Jr.

It's been far too long since last I submitted a column to Michiguide.com, but I have a lot of news and a great deal of opinion about what is going on in the radio industry, which is getting stranger every day. Don't misread me, I still love radio with a deep passion, but the people in charge of running it have been making decisions which are, at least to me, not in the best interest of you, the listener, nor the people working in the radio business.

We might as well start with very late breaking news that you may have just read about, regarding broadcasts of college sports. Both WJR-AM (760) and Michigan State University have just announced that the current five year deal to broadcast MSU football and basketball, has been extended for the next ten years! This will keep the Green and White on "The Big Stick" until the year 2020, when (oddly enough) commercial radio celebrates its 100th anniversary. Both WWJ in Detroit and KDKA in Pittsburgh went on the air in August and November, respectively, that year.

This news is not good for University of Michigan supporters. Many Wolverine fans hoped that after this season when the five year contract, which was announced on October 13, 2005, would be expiring that the Maize & Blue would revert back to Michigan's most powerful AM station. Ain't gonna happen.

Meanwhile, Spartan fans are no doubt excited to keep their teams on the 50,000 watt blow-torch, but it's not all bad for long-suffering U-M fans who hope the 2010 season of college football will be better than the last two. WOMC-FM (104.3) will again have ALL of the Michigan games this fall, and with nearly 200,000 watts of boost, that's not such a bad deal. Games will also, in all probability, be carried on CKLW-AM (800) which reaches from Fort Wayne, IN to the far side of NE Ohio. However, locally the FM is the clearest and most consistent signal for the games. We like to think of WOMC as standing for Where Only Michigan Counts.

According to industry "experts" the two most popular and profitable formats in radio today are country and talk. Yet, in Southeastern Michigan we have only one of each. WYCD has re-claimed its sole lock on country music when WDTW-FM (106.7), when it was known as 'The Fox' gave up as a distant number two. WYCD's only competition comes from far outside the market with stations in Ann Arbor (W4 102.9 FM), Toledo (K-100 99.9 FM), Flint (WFBE 95.1 FM), Port Huron (WSAQ 107.1 FM) and Lansing (WITL 100.7 FM).

For talk, WJR is pretty much it. Sadly, this great station is roughly 70% syndicated programming, as are the great majority of talk stations nationally. WJR's only live and local shows are mornings with Paul W. Smith, followed by Frank Beckmann and later in the afternoon a couple of hours with Mitch Albom and a news feature with Lloyd Jackson.

FM talk is the new buzz and, in many cities, AM powerhouse stations have flipped over to FM. I do not expect that will happen at WJR, but in several cities it has. In Seattle KIRO flipped to FM, as did WIBC in Indianapolis and KTAR in Phoenix. We could certainly use an FM talk station (done properly) in the Motor City. WKRK-FM (97.1) was more successful than WOW-FM (WOWF 99.5) which didn't even last six months back in 1993.

Dedicated radio buffs will recall that the first FM talker in Detroit was WDRQ-FM (93.1) which premiered after Father's Day in late June of 1971. They were truly far ahead of their time. It lasted about 18 months and then flipped to the Top 40 hits format that frequency is probably best remembered for.

In the Garden State, New Jersey 101.5 FM garners ratings that any broadcasting company would envy. They dominate with no syndicated fare, all local programs and originating from the state capital in Trenton. They cater only to New Jersey...not Philadelphia and not New York and it works! Why can't something similar work in Detroit?

Bill Doyle and Jeff Deminski were two of the more popular personalities to work on FM talk radio locally, but 2009 was not a good year for the duo while at classic rocker WCSX-FM (94.7). It wasn't a good fit. It was the wrong station. Interestingly the Bob & Tom show (available throughout Michigan, but not in Detroit) is a funny, mostly talk, syndicated morning program that does work and mostly on classic rock FM's. D&D were on a station known to be "music-intensive" and listeners didn't seem to accept their all-talk in the morning format.

Prior to segueing over to 94.7 FM, the boys sat out a full year of unemployment due to a "non-compete" clause in their deal with CBS, which owns 97.1 FM. When music was being interjected on their WCSX program, the handwriting was on the wall. Listeners were unhappy with the lack of classic rock in the morning and operations boss Doug Podell tried appeasing the audience with at least "some" music. It obviously wasn't good enough and at the end of the year their contract was not renewed.

D&D built their largest fan-base as an afternoon drive program at WKRK and didn't like it when they were pushed into mornings, as the station began to evolve as an all-sports outlet. This is unfortunate because Deminski & Doyle are very good and they like Detroit. Hopefully some under-performing FM station will adapt a talk format and make them their first hire for afternoons. Oddly enough both Bill and Jeff came to Detroit from a very successful run in afternoon drive at NJ 101.5.

Another morning show alteration, since last we met, was at WXYT-FM/AM (97.1 The Ticket) when Jay Towers either left on his own or HIS contact was also not renewed. It depends on who you talk to. None-the-less, Bill McAllister and Sara were left "Tower-less" until sports radio guru Tom Bigby and Ticket PD Jimmy Powers decided to try out former WDFN-AM (1130) host Mike "Stoney" Stone. Gentlemen you've hit the jackpot! Don't change a thing. Stoney works! It is a programmers dream come true when chemistry in the studio happens. Well, it's happened and just say "thank you God" and leave it alone.

Jay Towers future is, to an extent, uncertain. He has left CBS Radio and is slated to work for Clear Channel Radio, an arch-rival to CBS, as a "morning show consultant." I will have been in radio 50 years by this summer, and I've never heard of such a position. He is also supposedly going to continue working at WJBK-TV Fox 2 doing weekend anchoring and reporting.

Over the holidays I was on the west coast and in Las Vegas for nearly three weeks. Don't be jealous, in San Diego I had to scrape ice off windshield and no they don't have scrapers in southern California rental cars. It seems that everyone "in touch with today" has an I-Phone or a Blackberry rather than just an ordinary cell phone. Since I felt a need to be "SoCal Cool" I stopped into the world's ONLY Blackberry store at 14 Mile and Orchard Lake Road in Farmington Hills and picked up a new Blackberry Tour. My I-Phone friends made me feel inferior but, soon I learned how to get nearly every radio station I like on this phone. Very cool.

If you have one of these type phones, you can tune into nearly any station you want by simply downloading a special program or application (app) and bingo...you are connected. Folks at the Blackberry store helped me with two excellent app's. All Clear Channel-owned stations can be listened to with I heart radio, and you can easily bookmark your favorites. Most other stations can be heard with Radio Companion by Nobex. Both have web sites and are easy to understand.

While out in L.A. I could instantly punch up WWJ or WJR and find out news and weather information back home. I always felt in touch. The three-hour time difference was a problem at times, but it seems somewhat supernatural hearing stations from Detroit or New York a couple of thousand miles away! Best of all, you can run the audio output of these cell phones, via a simple patch cord that has a mini-stereo pin plug at each end, right into the auxiliary jack on most new car radios. The audio quality (in stereo) that fills your car from your cell phone is phenomenal. It will dazzle your friends. No longer, even while driving, will you be limited by the range of an AM or FM radio signal.

This week while Southern California was being slammed with floods, mud slides, high winds and even tornadoes I felt as though I was right there again tuned to WWJ's CBS sister station NewsRadio 1070 KNX. I recall how during the 1989 San Francisco earthquake, WJR ran a simulcast of sister ABC station KGO in the Bay Area. Now, we can be instantly connected to anyplace a major news story or situation is occurring!

This technology is changing everything.

With a promise to not be so absent from this site in 2010, I want to end with an update on former Detroit radio personality Joey Ryan. Joey is still in rough shape, but he's hangin' in there at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. He truly enjoys hearing from old radio pals in Detroit. He even got a card from WOMC's Dick Purtan. Please send a get well card to him via his real name; Joseph Pietruska c/o Home for Vets, 3000 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. If more convenient, longtime friend Kenn Christopher of Plymouth, MI has set up an e-mail account for messages of encouragement. E-mail Joey at joeymrboogieryan@gmail.com.

Reach Art Vuolo at artvuolo@aol.com or visit his web site at vuolovideo.com

News/Talk WJR AM 760 Detroit and Michigan State University have extended their relationship for another 10 years, keeping WJR as the flagship station for MSU football and men's basketball through 2020. WJR became the flagship for those broadcasts in 2006 after previously doing so from 1963 to 1976.

"MSU's relationship with WJR is truly a partnership," MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon said in a university release. "It's more than broadcasting our sporting events. It's become a mutually reinforcing set of conversations in which we've been able to use the power of WJR and MSU together to promote prosperity in the region."

WJR President Mike Fezzey called it a "great partnership that encompasses athletics, academics and everything in between."

The extension was announced today on WJR's Paul W. Smith show.

Adult Contemporary WNIC FM 100.3 Detroit has added the syndicated Delilah program for evenings, displacing Joe Haze. It's the third go-round for Delilah on Detroit stations - her program had abbreviated runs on soft rockers WMGC FM 105.1 and what was WDMK FM 102.7 in years past but fell victim to either poor ratings or a format change.

Contemporary hits Channel 95-5's 'Mojo In the Morning' program adds some listeners in the desert with the announcement that KOHT FM in Tucson, AZ has picked up the program. It'll air live starting really early in the morning there - with the last two hours replayed for later risers.

It marks a return to the market for host Mojo, who hosted mornings at KRQQ before moving here in 2000.

KOHT ops manager Tim Roberts commented, "We couldn't be happier to welcome Mojo In the Morning back to Tucson! He has created a morning show dynasty in Detroit since 2000 and we believe that he and the team will take Hot 98.3 to the next level."

Mojo added, "I have deep family roots in Tucson and I'm excited to be back here on the radio. Spike, Shannon, and I look forward to helping Hot 98.3 listeners start their day!"

The Oakland Press:

Specs Howard is a name that is synonymous with broadcast arts. But the Southfield-based school is branching out even further into digital media arts in 2010, which will likely increase the school's enrollment and its revenue. It will be known as the Specs Howard School of Broadcasting and Media Arts once the school completes its digital media arts curriculum, most likely in May, said President Lisa Zahodne. The new name is already being promoted in radio advertisements that began this month. Like its graphics program, which was established in 2008, the digital media arts program will take 12 months for students to complete, requiring them to be in the classroom two days a week, and doing the rest of their work remotely and online the remainder of the week. The desire to add this new discipline is based on the demand for digital content from not just traditional media such as television and radio, but also from corporations that want to enhance their online profiles by using video, audio and other digital tools... Broadcasting school adds digital media curriculum (Sun, 1/17)

Auto Show hits high gear with TV, radio broadcasts of Charity Preview

Tonight is the official kickoff of the 2010 North American International Auto Show with the annual Charity Preview. It's always one of the most anticipated evenings for Metro Detroit, but especially so this year with all the attention on the auto industry this past year. It's always been a big night and a great place to be seen and heard.

If you can't be there in person, WDIV-TV 4 and WJR AM 760 have you covered on television and radio.

Starting at 7 p.m., Local 4 will take viewers inside the 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview party with a live 2-hour primetime special on a night when a backdrop of beautiful cars sets the scene to raise significant donations for local children's charities. 4 From The Floor: The 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview is hosted by Local 4's Carmen Harlan, Devin Scillian, Guy Gordon, Rhonda Walker, Chuck Gaidica, Rod Meloni and Heather Zara and will feature special appearances by stars of NBC's popular daytime drama Days Of Our Lives, Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe) and Shawn Christian (Daniel), Ross Matthews of The Jay Leno Show, and popular television actor Erik Estrada.

4 From The Floor: The 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview also includes interviews with top auto industry executives, a look at some of this year's most impressive vehicles, and the ultimate buyer's guide to purchasing a new car in these tough economic times with a review of models and features to suit a wide range of driving needs. Viewers will also have the chance to challenge their knowledge of car trivia when they play along with "Auto Jeopardy!" hosted by Alex Trebek.

WJR's Paul W. Smith will also broadcast the event live from the Ford Motor Company exhibit from 6:30pm-8pm. Expect timely guests and reports as the evening unfolds. WJR will also be on hand all next week for the following broadcasts: Saturday, January 16th and 23rd: 9am-11am - The CAR Show; Sunday, January 17th: Noon-2pm - The Handyman Show with Glenn Haege; and Monday, January 18th - Friday, January 22nd: 9am-Noon - The Frank Beckmann Show.

AllAccess.com:

RADIO ONE DETROIT OM MS. SMILEY checks in to update us on some changes that have taken place at Urban WHTD (HOT 102.7). Middayer SUGAR RAY is out. SHORTY DA PRINCE goes to nights and replaces BIG GREG, who moves to middays... Ch-Ch-Changes at Radio One Detroit (Fri, 1/15)

Crain's Detroit Business:

Bob Sliva will retire as vice president and general manager of Detroit ABC affiliate WXYZ-Channel 7 on April 1, he said today. Sliva, 59, replaced longtime Channel 7 veteran Grace Gilchrist in those roles on Jan. 1, 2008, when she retired. He turns 60 on April 1. "I've decided 35 years (in the TV business) is enough," he said. "I think I'm going to the beach for awhile." Sliva said he plans to spend time with his wife at a cabin they bought along Lake Huron near Port Sanilac... Bob Sliva, WXYZ-Channel 7 general manager, to retire April 1 (Wed, 1/13)

MediaWeek:

Detroit has had a front-row seat to the recession, suffering 17 percent unemployment in a state with the highest unemployment rate. Among the top 25 Nielsen markets, Detroit had the steepest drop in TV households at 1.9 percent. Still coping with the aftereffects, the city has laid the groundwork to transition from a market dependent primarily on the auto business to a more diverse economy. Attracting a number of businesses that can harness unemployed autoworkers and engineers, Detroit is working to attract renewable and alternative energy and medical technology companies. For example, a 320-acre Ford plant is being turned into a manufacturing park for renewable energy companies. The auto business is also strengthening, with Chrysler adding shifts and General Motors making a commitment to alternative energy. Advertising is beginning to return from such categories as auto, fast food, retail and, of course, political. With a governor's race gearing up, media outlets are expecting activity for the primaries in August, along with several statewide races and issue advertising around property and housing taxes. Newspapers took big hits in Detroit, making it one of the few markets that doesn't have daily delivery of a paper... Market Profile: Detroit (Sun, 1/10)

AllAccess.com:

CBS RADIO Top 40/Mainstream WVMV (98.7 AMP)/DETROIT has tapped morning dessert THE PUDDIN PLAYHOUSE as its new morning driver, coming in from CLEAR CHANNEL Top 40 WSNX/GRAND RAPIDS, (NET NEWS 1/5). PUDDIN starts today (1/11), as does BUCK HEAD (NET NEWS 1/8) for afternoons... Puddin Show Debuts In Mornings At 98.7 AMP Radio (Mon, 1/11)

AllAccess.com:

CBS RADIO Top 40/Mainstream WVMV (98.7 AMP)/DETROIT has named BUCK HEAD as its new afternoon-drive host. He starts on MONDAY, JANUARY 11th. BUCK HEAD's first on-air gig was 12 years ago at WFLZ/TAMPA. After stints in LAS VEGAS and KYSR/LOS ANGELES, where he did nights, BUCK HEAD came to DETROIT to host evenings for the launch of WKQI (CHANNEL 955). He next did mornings at KKRZ (Z100)/PORTLAND and WBZQ (B94)/PITTSBURGH. "BUCK is simply one of the best in the business," VP/Top 40 Programming and 98.7 AMP PD DOM THEODORE said. "There are very few Top 40 personalities in his league. His outrageous and unpredictable style, combined with his online expertise, and previous track record of ratings success in Detroit made him the obvious choice for PM Drive, and I'm thrilled to team back up with him at 98.7 AMP"... Buck Head Amps It Up In Detroit (Fri, 1/8)

WDIV gearing up for 2010 North American International Auto Show coverage

WDIV TV Detroit, Local 4, is again the official home of the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The most complete NAIAS coverage anywhere includes Auto Show Sneak Peek, a Local 4 primetime preview special, live Local 4 News broadcasts from the exhibit floor, live webcasts of the exciting new car reveals, daily newscast features throughout the media preview week and the public show, and 4 From The Floor: The 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview, a 2-hour live Local 4 primetime special from the Charity Preview event.

Starting with the hour-long primetime preview special on Friday, January 8 at 10 p.m., Auto Show Sneak Peek takes viewers behind the scenes at Cobo Center for an inside look at the hottest new cars you'll be driving now and in the future and the latest technology and gadgets to improve your ride. Hosted by Carmen Harlan, Devin Scillian and Guy Gordon and with special reports from Rhonda Walker and Rod Meloni, Auto Show Sneak Peek introduces you to top auto executives, including Susan Docherty, General Motors Western Region Manager, who has been regarded as the most powerful woman in the industry. Viewers will also have the chance to challenge their knowledge of car trivia when they play along with "Auto Jeopardy!" hosted by Alex Trebek.

On Monday, January 11 starting at 5 a.m., Local 4's "Car Guy", Guy Gordon, will have live reports from Cobo Center on Local 4 News Morning. Throughout the day as the "Car and Truck of the Year" winners are announced and exciting vehicle unveilings begin, Local 4 will bring viewers compelling live streaming video coverage on ClickOnDetroit.com. Also Monday, Local 4 News at 5pm and Local 4 News at 6pm will broadcast live from the exhibit floor, anchored on-site by Carmen Harlan, Devin Scillian, Chuck Gaidica and Bernie Smilovitz, highlighting the most talked about new vehicles and award winners with special reports from our automotive specialists Guy Gordon and Rod Meloni.

During the NAIAS media preview days (January 11-12), Local 4 will feature special segments each day on Local 4 News Morning, Local 4: First At 4pm, Local 4 News at 5pm, 6pm and the #1 late news in southeast Michigan, Local 4 News at 11pm. In addition, Monday through Friday January 11-15 Local 4 will broadcast a half-hour live webcast from the Auto Show daily at 12:30 p.m. only on ClickOnDetroit.com.

Then, it's one of Metro-Detroit's most anticipated nights, and the biggest black tie extravaganza in town. Friday, January 15 starting at 7 p.m., only Local 4 will take viewers inside the 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview party with a live 2-hour primetime special on a night when a backdrop of beautiful cars sets the scene to raise significant donations for local children's charities. 4 From The Floor: The 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview is hosted by Local 4's Carmen Harlan, Devin Scillian, Guy Gordon, Rhonda Walker, Chuck Gaidica, Rod Meloni and Heather Zara and will feature special appearances by stars of NBC's popular daytime drama Days Of Our Lives, Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe) and Shawn Christian (Daniel), as well as Ross Matthews of The Jay Leno Show.

4 From The Floor: The 2010 NAIAS Charity Preview also includes interviews with top auto industry executives, a look at some of this year's most impressive vehicles, and the ultimate buyer's guide to purchasing a new car in these tough economic times with a review of models and features to suit a wide range of driving needs.

In addition to NAIAS coverage on Local 4, the latest daily updates and exclusive stories from the show can be found in a special section on the station's website, ClickOnDetroit.com. The ClickOnDetroit Official Auto Show Guide will be filled with hundreds of photos of impressive vehicles on display, video highlights of the amazing reveals and important information for attending the show with maps of the exhibit floor, parking guides and live weather and traffic to plan your trip downtown.

Detroit Free Press:

The WKQI-FM (95.5) "Mojo in the Morning" radio team is going to protest the protestors outside Friday's arraignment of the accused underpants bomber. "If the whole world is going to be looking at Detroit we thought let's protest, too, but we have to make it the most nonsensical protest ever," co-host Spike told the Free Press this afternoon. The morning team will meet at 1 p.m. Friday in front of the Theodore Levin U.S. Courthouse for this special edition of Spike's "Protest" Street Scam, a regular prank bit he does on the air. Spike said he, Mojo and Shannon Murphy will carry signs like "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter," "Free Tiger Woods" and "Obama: Bring back 'Jon and Kate Plus 8.'" They're encouraging listeners to join them with posters of their own... Prank protest planned Friday by 'Mojo' radio team (Thu, 1/7)

AFTRA Detroit hosting a night with local sportscasters

AFTRA Detroit (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) is hosting an evening with some of the best known sports broadcasters in Southeast Michigan. They will share their stories and valuable tips on becoming a "player" in the competitive world of sports broadcasting.

Scheduled to appear are Ken Kal (Red Wings play-by-play), Mario Impemba (Tigers TV play-by-play), Jim Brandstatter (color commentator for the Lions and Michigan football), and Tony Ortiz (Detroit Lions reporter and WXYT-FM/WWJ personality).

The event will take place on Monday, January 25th , 2010 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Vangard Building, 23800 West Ten Mile Road, Suite 228 in Southfield, MI.

Cost is $5.00 for ANY union members (not just AFTRA) and students; $10 for those not in a union.

Seating is limited and these sportscasters have DECADES of experience between them - a great evening and a great crowd is expected so an RSVP is required: call (248) 228-3171.

FMQB.com

Tom Poleman, Senior Vice President of Programming for Clear Channel Radio, today announced the appointment of Jay Towers as Programming/Talent Consultant for the company. Towers will monitor and work with morning show talent by developing and refining morning show systems and talent coaching tools. He will report directly to Poleman. "We are thrilled to have Jay on board as we further develop our incredible morning show programming, making great radio even better. Jay's background and abilities are a perfect fit for us and we can't wait to see what he'll accomplish working along with our talented on-air personalities and program directors," said Poleman... Clear Channel Appoints Jay Towers Programming/Talent Consultant (Tue, 1/5)

Detroit News:

The confetti from New Year's Eve was barely swept up when Detroit radio executives started making changes in their morning shows. Almost exactly a year after debuting a "Deminski & Doyle" morning show, Greater Media, owners of classic rock WCSX-FM (94.7), pulled the plug on the duo and will put veteran afternoon jock Ken Calvert in the morning slot. The changes will take effect Monday... Deminski, Doyle out as Metro Detroit radio stations shuffle DJs (Tue, 1/5)

Detroit Free Press:

WCSX-FM (94.7) morning talk show "Deminski & Doyle" signed off for good Monday after a year on the classic rock station. Morning commuters heard the hosts, Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle, run through some of their favorite segments over the last year before announcing on air that this would be their last day... 'Deminski & Doyle' off 'CSX (Tue, 1/5)

Detroit Free Press:

Today, the WCSX-FM (94.7) morning talk show "Deminski & Doyle" signed off after a year with the classic rock station. Morning commuters heard hosts Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle run through some of their favorite segments over the last year before announcing on air -- before the 9 a.m. hour -- that this would be their last day. The cohosts told their listeners the split was amicable and encouraged fans to continue supporting and listening to WCSX. John Gallagher, market manager of Greater Media, the company that oversees Detroit stations WCSX, WRIF-FM (101.1) and WMGC-FM (105.1), confirmed the dismissals... Deminski and Doyle out at WCSX-FM (Mon, 1/4)

Detroit News:

Almost exactly a year after debuting a "Deminski & Doyle" morning show, Greater Media, owners of classic rock WCSX-FM (94.7), has pulled the plug on the duo and will put veteran afternoon jock Ken Calvert in the morning slot. The change will take effect Jan. 11. "They were on the air for a year, but we just never saw the ratings get to where we'd originally thought we would," said John Gallagher, Greater Media Detroit market manager. The duo's contract was for more than a year, "but there were different opportunities to come up with an amicable agreement to go our separate ways," Gallagher added. .. WCSX drops 'Deminski & Doyle' (Mon, 1/4)

Jay Towers has left "The Ticket" 97.1 FM's morning show "for a new adventure," although he isn't saying yet if that means a much-rumored jump to Clear Channel Detroit's 95.5-FM (WKQI). Towers posted on his Facebook page on Saturday that he'd left the station of his own volition, "after an amazing two years." He told The News that his new plans will be revealed shortly... Jay Towers exits 'Ticket' morning show (Mon, 1/4)

Crain's Detroit Business:

Almost a year to the day after returning to Detroit morning drive-time radio, Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle are gone from WCSX-FM 94.7, the station said in a press release this morning. They are being replaced local radio veteran Ken Calvert on Jan. 11. Station operations manager Doug Podell will fill Calvert's afternoon slot. The decision to end the show hinged on audience preference, said John Gallagher, market manager for station owner Greater Media Inc. "It's the audience telling us they want music in the morning," he said. Gallagher declined to offer details of the separation, including if there was a buyout... D&D out at WCSX; Ken Calvert named new morning host (Mon, 1/4)

WDET Launches 'STAR' Program to Support Arts and Culture in Detroit

WDET 101.9 FM has launched a new arts and culture initiative called the "STAR" program, an acronym for Support The Arts, to provide support to nonprofit cultural organizations in Southeast Michigan. Specifically, WDET's STAR program will spotlight, through free on-air promotion and announcements, two organizations each month that promote and nurture the artistic landscape of metro Detroit.

All nonprofit arts organizations can apply, but WDET will reserve opportunities for organizations with annual operating budgets of $500,000 or less. According to WDET General Manager J. Mikel Ellcessor, modest budgets typically prohibit small arts and cultural organizations from devoting substantial resources to marketing or public relations.

"Small arts-oriented nonprofits often rely solely on word-of-mouth to get their name out, depend on a dedicated repeat audience to fill seats at events, and find themselves continually operating at the margin in spite of the fact that the region's cultural community is highly diverse, very energized and of extraordinary quality," Ellcessor said.

He emphasized that these limitations, which are exacerbated by the inherent challenges in fundraising for the arts, make WDET's STAR program invaluable in helping cultural organizations reach a wider audience than otherwise would be possible.

Participating organizations will be selected by WDET staff from applications received online at www.wdet.org. WDET will work with the arts organization selected to craft on-air messages using 30-second spots, as well as longer, produced sonic pieces -- which use sound to help tell a story -- and a possible interview on WDET's Craig Fahle Show.

"WDET embraces its responsibility to encourage the knowledge and growth of metro Detroit's arts and cultural scene," Ellcessor added. "We want to make it easier for arts lovers and arts organizations to find each other."

It's not exactly shocking, but yet still somewhat surprising, that Classic Rock WCSX-FM 94.7 will have a new morning program as former hosts Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle announced that today's edition of their show will be the last one on 'CSX. The duo commented that the station will be refocusing on music in the mornings starting tomorrow.

WCSX later in the day announced that Ken Calvert would be moving to morning drive starting January 11th with Doug Podell returning on-air to fill Calvert's on-air afternoon slot.

"Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle are very talented talk hosts, and we appreciate their contributions to the station," said Podell in a release.

What's interesting is about the announcement is the opportunity for D&D to host what amounted to a farewell show - which is either a classy move by Greater Media / Detroit or a sign that the show might have a future at another of the company's radio stations either locally or in a market such as Boston or Philadelphia.

Deminski and Doyle lasted one year at WCSX. For most regular listeners of both the classic rock format and the Deminski and Doyle program on its former home in afternoon drive on WKRK-FM 97.1, it became apparent early on that neither was perfectly suited for each other and despite adjustments, ratings were mosttly disappointing.

Also this morning, Mike Stone is co-hosting the drive-time show at sports WXYT-FM 97.1 but no announcement has been made if the arrangement is permanent. Jay Towers is no longer with the station - his future radio plans also have not been revealed but they will involve Clear Channel.

The rumor mill has been cranked up to 'high' over the past week or so with information coming out that Jay Towers has exited as morning co-host at WXYT-FM 97.1 - info that Towers himself confirmed this morning during Fox 2's morning news program. Apparently he's been hired by the Clear Channel cluster locally - but the exact station he'll be heard on will remain a mystery for now.

Logical speculation is that he'll either land at WNIC 100.3, which might be planning to attempt to steal listeners from the recently popular WDVD 96.3, or at WDTW-FM 106.7, which last fall changed formats to rhythmic adult contemporary from country, and has yet to offer a full lineup of personalities.

Of course, speculation of a Towers landing at WNIC opens up a set of new questions - what happens to current morning host Kevin O'Neill for example ... and would the station change it's music to become more like WDVD?

Of course, there's also the possibility that there's something completely different brewing - could Dom Theodore have lured Channel 95-5's morning crew over to CBS Radio's new contemporary hits Amp Radio 98.7 and Clear Channel has hired Towers to backfill that position? Theodore worked with 'Mojo in the Morning' during his tenure at Clear Channel/Detroit before moving to CBS Radio.

Back at 97.1, Towers exit opens the door for changes there too -- will current co-host Bill McAllister remain and take on more responsibility along with Sara Foreacre and Tony Ortiz? Will newly the recently hired Mike Stone be tapped for mornings... or will the station decide to completely revamp its lineup? Right now there are many more questions than answers - but hopefully more information will be available after everyone resumes work tomorrow.

Once those morning dominoes fall into place... you can bet there will be more to fall. For instance, there still are many that question classic rock 94.7 WCSX's choice of bringing in Deminski and Doyle for morning drive - then proceeding to completely change the show's presentation. Are either D&D or WCSX happy with the current arrangement... and how long will it last?

One thing is certain - morning radio in Detroit will not start the same way in 2010 as it finished 2009.