KXOJ/Tulsa morning show host Craig West has launched his own show prep serviced designed specifically for formats trying to "keep it clean" for listeners. The service, called Clean Start Radio is open for a one-week free-trial beginning Wednesday, March 25th through Tuesday March 31st. "Over the years I've become increasingly tired of throwing out 75% or more of the show prep I would get from other services " says Craig, "So I'm putting one together that I myself would want to use, and hopefully you as well!"

BITS: EMF Broadcasting and Family Life Broadcasting do a station swap with KFRI/Stanton, TX (AIR1) and $175,000 and KFLB/Odessa... Jason Hurst joins KDUV/Visalia as air personality...  (3/24)

Chambers Flat, Australia, has a new Christian radio station. Vision Chambers Flat 87.6 FM went on the air March 19, and is the 350th relay station for the Vision Radio Network, the national broadcasting arm of United Christian Broadcasters (UCB) Australia. ‘’We’re excited to be able to extend our coverage into Chambers Flat and give everyone the opportunity to experience a really different radio choice,’’ says Vision’s chief executive officer Ian Worby. ‘’Our aim is to bring hope and encouragement to our listeners though a mix of contemporary music and positive talk programs. Vision offers the best Christian music from Australia and overseas in an adult contemporary format as well as bringing practical talk on real life issues from our team and respected international speakers. Vision is about ‘Connecting Faith to Life’.

For a full list of the stations, visit http://www.ucb.com.au  (3/20)

The FCC has issued a $20,000 notice of apparent liability to Power Radio Corp., licensee of  KXPW-LP/Georgetown, TX, (Power FM 106.7) saying the station "willfully and repeatedly broadcast prohibited advertisements."  The FCC received a complaint in 2003 that KXPW was broadcasting prohibited underwriting announcements, and sent an inquiry to Power Radio. It then received further allegations that the station had aired underwriting announcements in 2004.

WLFS/Savannah (His Radio 91.9)  part of the His Radio Network, recently upgraded its signal to reach Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Bluffton and Ridgeland, SC. They also began broadcasting in HD and added His Radio Z HD-2 and His Radio Praise HD-3. Power has been increased from 6kw to 23.5kw.  (3/19)

“Inspired”, a new syndicated radio program hosted by 25-year industry veteran “Smilin’ Tom” Fridley gives Christian radio listeners and artists the opportunity to share their stories on the air. “Inspired showcases the best CCM songs and the stories that mean so much to our listeners, as told by the artists and the listeners,” said Fridley.  “It’s two hours of compelling, engaging, heart-warming radio.”

“Smilin’ Tom” Fridley has been a top-rated air talent, music director, and program director in Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh, Columbus, Buffalo, and more.  The Station Aid Radio Solutions team has over 20 years of radio production experience. If interested in hearing an “Inspired” demo go to www.inspiredradioshow.com . (3/18)

KKCM/Tulsa Update: KKCM PD Chris Kelly checks in with HisAir.Net, "Regretfully, Josh Bentley and Rebecca Bennett (our morning show) are looking for their next opportunity. They are two very talented people. I'm staying as PD of the web stream and getting back the PD chair of our Classic Rock station, KJSR. Dave Weston has always done double duty as the morning guy at our Hot AC, KRAV and then afternoons at Spirit. So he still is with the cluster and will be the voice of the station on the web."  Rebecca can reached at reba.bennett@gmail.com
and Josh at Josh.bentley@yahoo.com.  (3/17)

Global Food Crisis Awareness Day raised $3.1 million from donations of 27,000 listeners from over 1000 Christian radio stations that participated. Some highlights of the day include the following:

Salem Communications Corporation announced results for 4th Quarter 2008 results

--  Total revenue decreased 6.3% to $54.8 million from $58.5 million;
--  Operating expenses, including impairment of goodwill and indefinite-
    lived assets, increased 93.4% to $95.9 million from $49.6 million;
--  Operating loss from continued operations was $41.1 million for the
    quarter as compared to operating income of $8.8 million in the prior year;
--  Net loss was $30.6 million, or $1.29 net loss per share, compared to
    net income of $0.2 million, or $0.01 net income per diluted share;
--  EBITDA was a loss of $32.6 million for the quarter as compared to
    earnings of $11.6 million in the prior year;
--  Adjusted EBITDA increased 16.2% to $15.8 million from $13.6 million;


Broadcast 

--  Net broadcast revenue decreased 8.6% to $47.1 million from $51.6
    million;
--  Station operating income ("SOI") increased 1.3% to $18.2 million from
    $18.0 million;
--  Same station net broadcast revenue decreased 8.7% to $44.9 million
    from $49.2 million;
--  Same station SOI increased 3.4% to $17.9 million from $17.3 million;
--  Same station SOI margin increased to 39.9% from 35.3%;

(3/13)

WFHM/Cleveland (95.5 The Fish) will launched AlternaFISH on Saturday, March 21st. AlternaFISH is Cleveland's answer to a positive rock show for the younger generation and can be heard Saturday and Sunday night's from 9pm-midnight. Music requests can be sent to: alternafish@955thefish.com. (3/12)

Nearly 1,000 Christian radio stations across the United States joined Compassion International to raise awareness about the global food crisis today (3/11).  As part of Global Food Crisis Awareness Day, child sponsorship ministry Compassion International and radio partners want people to know that the economic crisis has not only devastated the stock and job market, but also the ability for the world’s poor to obtain food.

WAY-FM Chief Operating Officer Lloyd Parker has announced the promotion of BJ O’Neal to Regional Business Development Director. O’Neal will coordinate underwriting efforts for all WAY-FM properties in the state of Florida. O’Neal was previously Senior Business Development Director for WAY-FM in West Palm Beach. Parker stated, “BJ is such a professional and he has a wonderful gift of sharing his methods and ideas with others. I look forward to seeing what he can do to help all our Florida stations grow their business income.” (3/11)

Vision Narangba (87.8 FM) went on the air March 4 and is the 347th relay station in Australia’s fast-growing national Christian radio network.  ‘’We’re excited to be able to extend our coverage into Narangba and give everyone the opportunity to experience a really different radio choice,’’ says Vision’s chief executive officer Ian Worby. ‘‘Our aim is to bring hope and encouragement to our listeners though a mix of contemporary music and positive talk programs. ‘’Vision offers the best Christian music from Australia and overseas in an adult contemporary format as well as bringing practical talk on real life issues from our team and respected international speakers. Vision is about ‘Connecting Faith to Life’.’  (3/11)

The Texas Associated Press Broadcasters Awards recently gave Honorable Mention in the Best Newscast category to Sharon Geiger, KCBI/Dallas Senior News Director and Chris Howell, KCBI Reporter and Midday News Anchor.  Ms. Geiger, along with Bernie McPartland, KCBI Production Director, also won First Place in the Best Actuality/Production category for “Uniting with Union University”.  KCBI has a full service news department and is the flagship station of the Criswell News Network. According to Sharon Geiger, Senior News Director,  “Our goal as a department is to do work that serves our listeners and honors and glorifies our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  We’re thankful for the recognition, and I’m proud of Chris Howell, Bernie McPartland and the entire KCBI News Department for the hard work they do each day.” (3/9)

Former KLTY/Dallas PD Chuck Finney checks in with HisAir.Net. "I wish every PD had the chance sometime in his life to work with a team like the one at KLTY. John P, Big Mike, Frank, Starlene, Perri, Bonnie, Tony, Andi, John H, John B, Click, Ron, Shawn, Laurie, Marc and Dave - y'all are the BEST! Chuck T, Mike G, Max, Dave, Bret, Melody, Len, Vance and Mike B - I couldn't be prouder of the work you're doing at the Fishes. Thank you! Joe, thank you for your awesome leadership of the Salem Radio stations. What an amazing seven years! I'll cherish the experiences and will miss the Salem family. We're looking forward to what God has for us next."  Due to Salem Communications downsizing Finney's position as National PD for the "Fish" stations was eliminated. Mike Pendergast is now PD at KLTY. (3/5)

Changes coming down at WBSN/New Orleans (Lifesongs 89.1) as MD/morning personality Libby Krimsier announces she is getting married,  and relocating to Seattle. She will be voice-tracking a shift for WBSN from Seattle and can still be reached at libby@lifesongs.com. Her last day is March 20th. PD Tom Krimsier will handle the music. (3/5)

Christian radio industry veterans Joe Battaglia, President of Renaissance  Communications, and John Frost, a partner in Goodratings Strategic Services, announce the formation of a new, jointly owned company Battaglia-Frost Creative Productions, Inc.  According to a joint statement by Battaglia and Frost, the new entity exists to introduce a new wave of great communicators to Christian radio, and create compelling programming elements and shows that are a level above what individual stations could do on their own. 

Both Battaglia and Frost will continue with their respective companies, Battaglia with Renaissance and Frost with Alan Mason of Goodratings in working with dozens of the nation’s leading Christian music stations. (3/5)

NewReleaseTuesday.com (NRT) announces the first Christian music application for Apple’s iPhone and iPod Touch. Dubbed “NRT Mobile,” the application is available now as a free download through Apple’s iTunes Store. It brings the largest and most up-to-date Christian music and entertainment database directly to the iPhone and iPod Touch. “This is a huge jump forward for Christian music,” states NRT founder, Kevin McNeese. “We’ve created a free mobile resource that takes advantage of the advanced and interactive capabilities of the user interface for the iPhone and iPod Touch. NRT Mobile provides access to a database that is actively managed by over 14,000 Christian music fans, containing thousands of artists, albums and tens of thousands of song lyrics.”

In addition to Christian artist and album information, NRT Mobile also indexes over 10,000 album reviews written by NRT staff and members of NRT. Users will also have mobile access to the site’s robust new release schedule promoting new releases each week, upcoming releases and archived releases dating back to the early 1970’s. (3/5)

In the face of a struggling economy, KVTT/Dallas (91.7 The Truth), a 33-year 100,000 watt Dallas based non-profit Christian radio station ministry serving the Metroplex, recently appealed to its listening audience with its’ own financial emergency. The staff at 91.7 suspended its’ normal programming for a full day on February 19 and hit the air waves to seek donations to reach a $200,000 mortgage payment that was due by the end of the month!  Over $100,000 was raised in just 13 hours.  And in the eleventh hour, on February 27, after several hundred credit card donations, checks and cash contributions were tallied, the station reached its goal and met the $200,000 shortfall.  “We know that God’s economy supersedes that of the nation’s economic perspective.  God showed Himself to be faithful to this station as we broadcast the Gospel message.” said Doug Price, General Manager of 91.7 The Truth. (3/5)

KDUV-FM Visalia/Fresno’s Shannon Steele has kicked off a weeklong challenge to raise awareness for Compassion International’s Global Food Crisis Day on March 11^th.  She’ll be living on $2 a day for food…and the kindness of strangers.  Listeners are being asked to get involved in the challenge by praying for the Global Food Crisis Day and taking action to give.  Steele says this week is meant to remind us how blessed we are and how easy it is to give:  “ I’ve come to terms with how hard I had to work to ONLY spend $14 on food for this next week, while millions around this world have less than that to survive on for a month! And it’s amazing to realize that the same $14 I’ve spent on food for the week can feed one child in a poverty stricken area for a month!  You can follow Shannon’s blog for updates each day:  http://kduvlive.com/shannon/   (3/4)

Bruce Barrows is in place at WNWC/Madison (Life 102.5), WI as Program Director and morning show co-host with Ann Manion. (3/4)

Compassion International and nearly 1,000 Christian radio stations will dedicate one day of broadcast on March 11, 2009, to help children around the world who have been affected by The Global Food Crisis. “I have been fighting poverty for more than 30 years,” said Wess Stafford, president and CEO of Compassion International.  “Throughout that time I have never seen the potential for devastation that I see in the current Global Food Crisis.”   While the United States continues to reel from the stock market’s plunge and the credit crisis, there are severe worldwide consequences to America’s economic woes that have been almost entirely ignored by the media. Compassion International is calling on Christian radio and ministry broadcasters to join in a global effort to set aside one broadcast day in 2009, March 11^th, Global Food Crisis Day, to bring awareness to this urgent need. 

Compassion is uniquely positioned to provide immediate relief by transferring funds through their existing infrastructure and ensuring that those that need help most are helped first.  Radio stations interested in participating on March 11^th can go to: http://www.compassion.com/global-food-crisis/forradio.html  (3/4)

KCFY/Yuma PD/Morning guy Sheldon Vicks is hanging up his head phones and taking on a new adventure as the Marketing & Entertainment Director for the Yuma Fun Factory, a miniature golf and water park which will house a 5,000 seat concert arena. "After many prayers and long talks with my family, it was the best decision for me to make. Vicks' last day at KCFY will be this Friday March 6th. Vicks won't be completely hanging up his head phones though, he will be making his services available for radio/TV voice/voice tracking and imaging out of his home state of the art home studio. If you would like a demo reach out to him at SheldonVicksProductions@yahoo.com or.....  www.sheldonvicksproductions.com which  he will launch April 1st. (3/2)

BITS: Congrats to WDBX/Chattanooga (J103) PD Jason McKay on the birth of a baby boy (Cooper) Thursday 2/26...  On March 2, KCBI/Dallas will launch an on-air project to bring Christian radio to Sweden... James Dobson has resigned as chairman of Focus on the Family but will continue to host Focus on the Family's flagship radio program, write a monthly newsletter and speak out on moral issues...  (2/27)

Keith Leitch, President of KORB/Santa Rosa, CA (Broken FM) checks in with HisAir.Net.  Keith says the new station went on the air January 15 with a CHR/Rock format. "We actually applied for and acquired the five FM translators in advance of acquiring a main station. Our main station in Hopland, California, was acquired from Educational Media Foundation (KLOVE).  We traded three permits in Juneau, Alaska, for the one permit in Hopland."  While waiting for a main station, they were able to rebroadcast other Christian stations on their translators. The FCC granted the move of Hopland 88.7 to the Hopland Baptist Church on December 31st, 2008. This enabled them to sign the station on January 15, 2009.  Keith adds, "immediately afterwards, Santa Rosa Christian School invited us to move the station to their campus at the Wells Fargo Center in Santa Rosa.  On February 13, 2009, the FCC granted a main studio waiver to locate the main studio of KORB at SRCS.  The studio for KORB is just a few feet away from where the original KLOVE studio started." Broken FM covers about 300,000 people in the Northern San Francisco Bay area and 100,000 people in the Monterey peninsula area. Audio stream is available on their website: Broken FM (2/23)

An unknown person hacked into WHLP/Valparaiso, IN (Calvary Radio Network) Internet-based phone system and used it to make more than 1,900 calls fishing for credit card information.  station Manager James Motshagen learned the business's phone number was being misused when someone called the station around 10 p.m. Tuesday to ask why the number was on his caller ID.  Motshagen immediately knew which phone extension was vulnerable and stopped the leak. With a background in information technology, he was able to determine when the security system likely was compromised and for how long, during the two days the hackers had access. Recipients of the calls heard a recorded message saying their credit card had been compromised and asking them to enter their card number and expiration date, according to the police report. It is unknown how many people provided their credit card information to the culprits. Motshagen explained that anyone who uses an Internet-based phone system -- and most larger businesses do -- can be vulnerable.  (2/20)

BITS: KLVV/Ponca City APD Dale Best exits the station for morning co-host/promotions director at KDUV/Visalia... Salem Radio Network's nationally syndicated talk hosts are going on a nationwide multi-city tour to coincide with the first 100 days of President Obama's administration... American Forces Network (AFN) in Riverside is looking for a director of radio programming apply online at http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov and search "radio. (2/20)

The nominations are in for the 40th Annual Dove Awards, which honor the best in Christian and gospel music. Topping the list of nominees this year is current three-time Male Vocalist of the Year Chris Tomlin, with seven total nominations including Artist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year for "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)." Natalie Grant and newcomer Francesca Battistelli each received five nominations, as did Casting Crowns.  For a complete list go here.

The doors for ministry are quietly closing over Russia. Missionary visas for many evangelical ministries working in Russia are not being renewed. Even Trans World Radio's (TWR) licenses to broadcast in Russia are being denied and last year TWR lost over 700 radio stations broadcasting across 13 time zones. But when God closes one door, He opens another. From Tartu Estonia, TWR will be partnering with Tartu Family Radio to upgrade their 100 kw AM transmitter to 200 kw giving TWR the ability to reach Moscow, St Petersburg and Kiev with a grade A signal. 

If your station would like to join in partnering with TWR so that Russians will have the opportunity to hear about Jesus, contact John Summerville, TWR Director of Radio Station Partnerships at 919-460-3795 or jsummerville@twr.org. Click here to read more about this project.  (2/18)

WBSN/New Orleans (LifeSongs 89.1) celebrated 30 years of Christian broadcasting in the New Orleans area this month. Leading up to the big event, LifeSongs flashed back to each of the 30 years, starting in 1979. They highlighted music and trends from each year. On the actual birthday, (2/5) LifeSongs staff and listeners celebrated with prizes and King Cake. (2/18)

Salem Communications announced today its preliminary results for the fourth quarter of 2008 ending December 31.  Total revenue is estimated to decrease 6.3% to $54.8 million.  Operating expenses before gain or loss on disposal of assets and impairments are estimated to decrease 14.7% to $38.9 million. Impairment of long-lived assets is expected to be approximately $53 million; and,  adjusted EBITDA is estimated to increase 16.2% to $15.8 million from $13.6 million. (2/18)

BITS: The Gospel Music Channel senior director of music industry development Alvin Williams becomes senior director of music, talent and acquisitions, he joined the cable music channel in 2004... KPOS/Lubbock flipped formats yesterday (2/16) from Christian Rock to God’s Country. KPOS is owned by EMF... The Streets Of Gold radio program has launched a newly revamped website at:  www.streetsofgoldradio.com . (2/17)

SoundExchange and the NAB reached a comprehensive agreement on Internet streaming rates for local radio stations that simulcast programming over the Internet or that create new stand-alone Internet stations. The agreement provides discounts on previously-set rates for 2009 and 2010 and establishes rates for 2011-2015, providing stations with an enhanced ability to serve listeners through online platforms. Additionally, NAB has reached separate agreements with individual record label groups that waive certain statutory format restrictions allowing, for example, certain artists to be played more often during a four hour period.

The agreement was reached under the authority of the Webcaster Settlement Act of 2008 (H.R. 7080) and covers simulcasts over the Internet of all copyrighted commercially-released musical performances.

"Because of the explosive growth of music on the Internet, this is good news for everyone involved in music - from artists to labels to broadcasters and to fans," said John Simson, Executive Director of SoundExchange. "It provides radio stations more opportunity to grow their on-line businesses in a stable business environment. Furthermore, it gives artists and copyright holders the opportunity to have more of their music played, while being fairly compensated, in more places as radio services expand their offerings on the Internet."

"Today's announcement provides local radio stations with the ability to enhance their local service with an online component, boosting listeners' access to music, local news and information," said NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton. "By ensuring the continued viability of Internet streaming for America's radio stations, today's agreement further strengthens the relationship between free, local radio and our 235 million weekly listeners."

Under the agreement, rates for simulcasts or web channels operated by local radio stations are reduced in 2009 and 2010 by approximately 16 percent, then gradually increase through 2015 - from $0.0015 per streamed sound recording in 2009 to $0.0025 per stream by 2015.

By entering this agreement, SoundExchange and the NAB provide business certainty for broadcasters, artists and copyright holders as they explore and invest in the new possibilities the Internet provides to bring music to its many fans. (2/16)

"The fairness doctrine has a tremendous potential for constraining free speech, but hate crimes (legislation) has the potential of criminalizing it," said NRB President Frank Wright at the convention that wrapped up last week in Nashville. "In the short run, the fairness doctrine has the immediate threat of being applied to Christian broadcasters and to the church in a very deleterious way. Hate crimes legislation, if that is enacted, will evolve over time and bleed over into speech and have a negative effect, but not right away. The fairness doctrine will have a negative impact the day it is implemented."  He said he expects religious broadcasters, largely Christian, to be particularly hard hit because of the doctrine's requirement for so-called "balance." If an opposing view must be found for every matter of controversy, Christian broadcasters could find themselves in the unenviable and untenable position of seeking out other religious viewpoints – Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist or atheist – to counter what ministers of the Gospel say on the air. 

"And we have a personal concern," according to Wright. "The only radio station that ever lost its license under the fairness doctrine regime was a Christian radio station in Red Lion, Pa. We are only responding now to the statements the Democrats themselves are making."  The NRB represents 1,400 organizations, including large ministries and TV and radio stations, is "girding itself for a major battle over broadcasting freedoms," and is prepared to go to court, lobby Congress, or take its message to the public.  "We have talked before about many of these issues, but now, with the shift in the political landscape, I think these same things have a much higher probability of being enacted or at least having legislation and hearings and debates, and on the regulation side at the FCC," said Wright.  (2/13)

At the National Religious Broadcasters convention last week in Nashville, NRB senior vice president and general counsel, Craig Parshall, said The public is more skeptical of institutions and closely scrutinizes where they're putting their money in these sour economic times.  "When you look at Madoff, the Wall Street situation and even Grassley, we're well aware we have to be called to a higher standard of accountability," Parshall said. "The average family is struggling. They have to choose whether to keep donating or not. They're going to want to see transparency."

The president of HCJB Global, Wayne Pederson, says the radio ministry now has an estimated seven million mostly-Muslim listeners in North Africa and the Middle East. Pederson says the Arab world is full of "lost people who need Jesus, and they're getting tired of a message of hate and are looking for a message of love." He says that through HCJB radio broadcasts, the gospel is penetrating Muslim societies -- so much that entire households, and in some cases entire villages, are converting to Christianity. "When Jesus came, He didn't just preach. He healed. And so we want to do both -- preach on the radio and heal through our healthcare. People in that part of the world are coming to Christ as households, as communities. Entire villages are coming to Christ together," he notes.  Pederson joined HJCB  in Nov. 2008 as was previously VP at Moody broadcasting. (2/13)

UPDATE: WBDX/Chattanooga (J103) PD/mornings Jason McKay is back home recovering from surgery last week in Nashville. The good news is Jason’s lymph nodes were not cancerous so he is considered cancer free and will not even have to do chemo. They will monitor him very close for the next few years though. Just before Christmas Jason was diagnosed with testicular cancer and has been blogging the entire experience on the station website. I addition Jason's wife Brittany is expecting a baby by the end of February.  (2/11)

Congratulations to , RTN (Radio Training Network) founder and president Jim Campbell who celebrates 20 years of ministry, music, and missions this year. Jim as nonored at the RTN manager’s meeting.  (2/11)

An emergency generator bound for installation at KWFC/Springfield, MO was stolen Sunday. According to GM Gary Longstaff the $16,000 natural gas-powered generator and a large trailer that also was stolen were paid for with listener donations.  “The theft is an obvious setback, but we’ll move forward with the project,” Longstaff said. “With our current economy, it’s a difficult time to have these additional expenses forced upon this ministry.”  (2/11)

GMA Music Week registration for all GMA members has been cut to $299 and will stay at the amount thru April 6th. This is the lowest GMA Week registration rate in over a decade. “GMA understands the tremendous financial pressures we are all facing during this time of economic difficulties in our industry and our country, and we don’t want that to be an obstacle that will prevent someone from attending GMA Music Week" said GMA CEO John Styll. “We believe it is so important to engage together so that together we might take stock of trends affecting our industry, explore better ways to do our jobs and discover the new and rising artists that will take our music into the future.”  Mark your calendar for April 18-22.  Click here to register. (2/11)

WAY-FM Media Group is reaching listeners in a new way with the introduction of Radiolicious®, a free downloadable player for iPhone® or iPod Touch® users. As Radiolicious subscribers, WAY-FM owned and operated stations can stream live audio and Web content while offering a forum for two-way communication – exciting capabilities that will expand the local listener base and opportunities for mobile awareness advertising. “WAY-FM is committed to reaching our listeners where they are,” said Dan Gross, WAY-FM New Media Director. “Mobile technologies like Apple's iPhone represent an innovative direction for broadcast media, and WAY-FM is excited to be partnering with Radiolicious as part of our new media strategy, which includes reaching out to mobile listeners.”  (2/11)

WFSH/Atlanta (104.7 The Fish) presents Valentine’s Vows on Saturday, February 14, 2009.  Fifty (50) couples will renew their wedding vows in the snow at the base of Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park in a special ceremony starting at 2:00pm.  The ceremony will feature performances by artists John Waller and Jonny Diaz.  A small reception will follow at the Magnolia Room in the Crossroads area of the park.  During the reception, couples and their guests will be treated to wedding cake and a small concert by John Waller.  All couples attending will receive a copy of the movie Fireproof on DVD.  (2/11)

WTKI/Huntsville (Pro Talk 1450) has gone dark because of current economic conditions. The station's last day on the air was Jan. 30, according to former station manager Scott Blakely. "The company was just trying to figure out a way to save some cash," Blakely said. "It's tough all around in the broadcast industry. SRN (the Salem, N.C., Radio Network) cut employees by 5 percent and Clear Channel is also cutting back. WTKI was purchased by The Christian Voice of Central Ohio Inc., in 2007 from local owners David Barnhart and Daniel Skinner of Mountain Mist Media for a reported $475,000. The format was changed from ESPN and other sports to "Pro Talk" featuring religious and other news talk shows.  (2/5)

Yesterday was Dick Marsh's last day at Salem Music Network and WFFH/Nashville ( 94 FM The FISH) as his position as Director of PR/promotions was eliminated due to budget cuts. Dick was with Salem six and half years and says , " It is a sad truth that to cut cost you have to do some tough moves, but I understand. The folks at Salem have been great to me. The team at 94 FM The FISH & Solid Gospel 105 have been a joy to work with. I only wish the very best for them." Dick will continue his PR/Promotions/Marketing business under The Marsh Group and is open to any consulting, projects, even a real job. reach out to him at dick@themarshgroup.com cell 615-714-3918. (2/3)

Former founder and CEO of EMF Broadcasting, Dick Jenkins checks in with HisAir.Net and reports he is now doing some business and radio consulting for a few clients and continuing to look for a full-time opportunity/challenge. “Radio is in a unique state right now. Stations are being offered for sale at ridiculously low prices, but there are NO buyers, because the venture capital markets and banks are not lending right now. I worry about some of the broadcast networks that are highly leveraged. Nobody’s missed an interest payment yet, but as the economy keeps softening, I predict we’ll see some major networks in default.”  Tim Moore (Audience Development Group) and I are currently looking at some situations to see if there might be some ‘turnaround’ opportunities. I don’t know where my next assignment will be yet - and I continue to pray – but waiting on God is hard for a type “A” personality like me! Dick exited EMF last September and can be reached at dickjenkinsbiz@gmail.com.  (2/3)  

WCQR/Gray, TN has promoted Assistant Program Director Brian Sumner to PD. Brian continues in his role as Co-Host of “Breakfast Radio” along with Mike Perry. Brian joined WCQR as the assistant to the Program Director and Morning Show Co-Host during the summer of 2008.  Since the departure of former Program Director Chalmer Harper, Brian has been serving as the interim PD in his place. WCQR GM Mike Perry said, “I am so excited to announce Brian as our Program Director.  During his time here he has proven to have the skills and knowledge to lead our station and most importantly, shown me that he has a real heart for ministry and serving others.  He will do a great job and the listeners of WCQR will benefit greatly.”  (2/3)

WJCR/Upton, KY remains off the air today after getting hit by the massive ice storm which affected most of the state of Kentucky. WJCR has been down since Tue, Jan. 27 at about 2:30pm and has not had power since.  Station Manager Gary Richardson adds, "WJCR is a 100,000 watt station, but our transmitter and studios are located in the country west of Upton, Ky.  Due to the great distance we are not on the priority list to get our power back on. We won't know the extent of the damage until we get power.  We think our tower is OK. This was the worst ice storm in memory of anyone here. There were almost one-half million without power across the state at one time.'  The state of KY. has been declared a disaster area by Governor Breashear. You can reach out to Gary at garywjcr@yahoo.com.  (2/2)

Rev. Tom Gray joins WRNF/Selma as Public Relations Associate. The station is owned by the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago.  Gray’s new job is a part-time position and he will continue to serve full-time as pastor of Reformed Presbyterian Church. Gray will also cover local news, Public Affairs, and human interest stories for the station. Rob Moore, Station Manager of WRNF, said, “we are excited to have Brother Tom as part of our team” “It has long been our desire to tell the positive news and things that are happening in the Selma area on our stations including WRNF when we were in the planning stages of building this station,” Moore stated. (2/2)

EMF adds to it's station list with the purchase of WNWT/Rossford and WNKL/Wauseon, OH,  from Cornerstone Church for $2.8 million.  With the purchase EMF will own 241 stations nation wide. (2/2)

Salem Communications has announced that all full and part-time employees salaries will be cut by 5% starting next week. In addition some executives pay is being reduced by 10%. According to Salem VP/general counsel Christopher Henderson. "Like all radio groups, we are cutting costs to improve the bottom line," he says.

BITS: WMIT/Black Mountain GM Jim Kirkland is now Director of Radio for Billy Graham Evangelistic Association while Director of Finance and Administration Alice Knighten is now GM... Phil Stacey has signed with reunion records... Nashville Publicity Group has a new location, 5016 Spedale Court, Suite 394 Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174 (phone & Fax remain same)... (1/30)

The financial crisis is not stopping Christian radio operators from moving forward. Mike Wilson, general manager of WCVK/Bowling Green, plans to build three new radio stations at $50,000 each. The nonprofit station is developing a capital campaign to raise money for the project. “It’s probably a seven-, eight-month process of developing a major gifts campaign,” Wilson said. “That is the longest and most difficult part.” Still, Wilson hopes to start construction at the end of this year.  WCVK operates two stations, one in Bowling Green and one in Owensboro.

Wilson decided to construct three new stations after receiving several requests from listeners who wanted a station in their community. When the FCC opened a 30-day window to apply for broadcast station permits, Wilson jumped at the chance to reach out to those people. “We’re looking to do what we can do and broaden our reach,” he said. “Any organization’s goal is to change lives for the better.”

Wilson hopes to raise $200,000 to cover the stations’ construction and operating expenses. In fact, each station’s expenses depend on listener and business donations, which have poured in despite the economy. This past December was “the best December we ever had,” Wilson said. Before Thanksgiving, the station was $3,000 under budget. After Wilson shared the station’s plight with donors, the money flooded in. The station collected about $24,000 during December.

“One thing I’ve come to realize, even in the downturn of the economy, people who have the capacity still give, and philanthropy has gone up every year,” he said. “Especially people of means, they see it as a responsibility for them because they have been blessed with wealth.” (1/28)

The His Radio Network expanded its coverage effective  January, 26^th at 3:30 pm in the Charleston, SC market with the purchase of Clear Channel’s WALC, a full power station at 100.5 FM. The network has been broadcasting through three translators in the Charleston area over the past seven years. According to General Manager, Allen Henderson, “This has been a long journey to take Charleston to full power.  The response since sign on has been tremendous!”   (1/27)

Family Life Network (FLN) expands with the construction of WCIM/ Shenandoah, PA (91.5 FM)... EMF is buying silent KMRL/Buras, LA, including a permit to got from Class A to Class C and closer to New Orleans...  WLFJ /Greenville-Spartanburg (HIS RADIO) can now be heard on 100.5 WALC//Charleston...  (1/26)

Donations are being taken for funeral and other related expenses to help the Rebecca McClelland, the surviving wife of WCRJ/Jacksonville air personality Ron McClelland, who passed away last week. Ron collapsed during a basketball game on a station sponsored cruise and could not be revived.  Ron and Rebecca did not have life insurance. If you would like to help with the funeral and expenses, please visit any Bank Of America and ask for:  Account for Ron and Rebecca McClelland ending in #8678 or  mail a check made out to:  Ron and Rebecca McClelland Fund , P.O. Box 551379 , Jacksonville, FL 32255.  (1/26)

The American Family Radio (AFR) network recently revamped the format on a majority of its stations to focus more on news and informational programming. The switch from a music-driven format to the new "AFR Talk" lineup made its debut earlier this month. Tim Wildmon, president of American Family Radio, says there was a need for more Christian-based news and information. "With our apologies to music fans, you can get music in many different places," he notes. "You can get music on the Internet, you can get music on CDs, but you can't get this kind of news and information that we're going to be offering live daily." Wildmon expects the new format to be a valuable tool for concerned Christians as the new Obama administration takes hold in Washington. We anticipate some major public policy debates with the Obama administration. I'm sure he's going to do a lot of things right," he concludes. "But on matters of family policy, morality, and life issues, [the American Family Association] anticipates some very difficult fights with the Obama administration -- and we need the troops to be educated and informed, and then to act when the time comes."  (1/26)

February 1, 2009 will mark the first anniversary of Trans World Radio's (TWR) broadcasts from their new 100,000-watt transmitter in Benin, West Africa. The Benin station is very busy, with more than 40 programs per week being aired in some 20 languages. (1/26)

Hope For The Heart's late-night live 2-hour call-in counseling program called Hope In The Night has begun airing on AFR Talk, a network of nearly 130 radio outlets.  "Hope In The Night" will be an integral part of the AFR Talk format and will be carried on a network of powerful FM radio facilities in cities and communities representing 30 states," stated Burt Perrault, Hope For nThe Heart's Director of Broadcast Ministry. "The total number of Hope In The Night affiliates will increase from 119 outlets to 250, with minimal impact to the ministry's media budget." (1/26)

Family Life Network (FLN) has appointed Natalie Thomas Host of its Mid-day radio show airing each weekday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.  Along with her on-air responsibilities, Thomas will create original material for the show by mixing comedy, weekly buzz, and interactive content around syndicated Bible teaching programs. Thomas most recently served as on-air personality for American Family Radio (AFR) in Tupelo, Mississippi.  There she hosted the Mid-day radio show, produced audio for network promos, and wrote sponsorship and promotional material.  Thomas previously worked as production director and morning show host for WGCF/Paducah, KY, WDXR/Paducah, and WWWQ/Glasgow, KY. “Bringing Natalie on board presents exciting opportunities for the ministry,” said Rick Snavely, President of Family Life.  “Her broad background in audio production, copywriting, voice work, and drama will certainly enhance our ability to create fresh and creative radio material.  We’re fortunate to have her at the network.”  (1/22)

United Christian Broadcasters (UCB) has announced it is just weeks away from broadcasting Christian radio on DAB digital radio in Northern Ireland.    Following a successful fundraising campaign, the charity expects to begin broadcasting in Northern Ireland on 30 January.  “This is a pretty incredible time for UCB”, said Gary Hoogvliet, UCB’s Director of Broadcasting.  “On a weekly basis, we receive hundreds of e-mails from people letting us know how much they’re being encouraged and stretched by what they hear on UCB and it’s great that in troubling times, we’re able to point people to a greater hope. “We’re looking forward to broadcasting in Northern Ireland too.  We know many people have waited for this for a long time, so we’re excited that this is finally becoming a reality.”
 
UCB already broadcasts on DAB digital radio to most major cities in England and Wales and after Northern Ireland, hopes to continue to expand coverage across the UK.  (1/20)

WCRM/Charlotte (New Life 91.9) is trying some alternatives to layoffs in order for it's ten employees to keep their jobs. The station depends on donations from listeners. But due to the economy, donations are down 30 percent.  As layoffs looked unavoidable, the staff has agreed to either work one day a month without pay, or donate a day's pay back to the station. They said they agreed in hopes of helping everyone keep their jobs.  WCRM GM Joe Paulo says " We took the approach that rather than one or two people suffering a lot and being laid off, let's share the pain." Paulo said he'll continue this approach until the economy improves and donations pick up again. T o read more and watch the video on Charlotte TV station WSOC click here..  (1/19)

Family Life Network (FLN) has added Sonny Delfyette as the new co-host of its morning show joining Denny Brownlee. Mornings with Sonny and Denny, wairs weekdays 6:00 am to 9:00 am.  In addition to his on-air responsibilities, Delfyette will actively create, develop and produce original content for the show.  With nearly 30 years of radio experience, Delfyette joins Family Life from The Mo’Nique Show— a nationally syndicated radio program currently carried on eight stations, three in the top ten markets of Philadelphia, Detroit, and Washington, DC.  The Mo’Nique Show also ran in Los Angeles when Delfyette co-hosted the program. Prior to that, Delfyette did airshifts at WJMZ/Greenville, WVKL/Norfolk, KPRS/Kansas City, and WWIN/Baltimore. “We are delighted to have Sonny join the morning show team,” said Rick Snavely, President of Family Life.  “Sonny has impressive experience in hosting successful morning shows in a range of markets and radio formats.  He’s also shown great chemistry with his co-host, Denny Brownlee, since being on the air together.  We’re hopeful and encouraged that Sonny and Denny will take FLN’s morning show to the next level.”  (1/19)

Ron McClelland, part time air personality and a member of the "Family Friendly Morning Show" with Theresa Ross at WCRJ/Jacksonville (88.1 The Promise) passed away suddenly on Sunday. Ron, also a member of the group "Storyside B" started out volunteering his time at the station and had just started working on a part time basis at WCRJ. Ron and his wife, Rebecca, had joined the WCRJ staff and listeners on the "Promise Cruise" when he collapsed playing basketball and went home to be with the Lord. Click here for story and video.  (1/19)

EMF is purchasing WGUY/Dexter (102.1) and WFZX/Searsport (101.7) (both serve the Bangor Market) from Blueberry Broadcasting who has spun off the two stations to comply with market limits. With the additions EMF will is now at a portfolio of 245 O&Os nationwide. (1/19)

MOVEMENT: WIBI/Carlinville, Il recently purchased a translator station at 93.7 in Effingham, IL and is currently conducting an interference study... Tamara Moore named National Promotion Manager at Tooth & Nail Records and BEC Recordings...   Trans World Radio (TWR) officially names Dr. Emmanuel D. Mbennah as its new International Director for Africa... Tom Hosmer is doing underwriting at SAU Radio Spring Arbor, MI  (1/19)

Next week on The ‘Family Friendly Morning Show with Doug & Kim as Kim goes solo with the help of several visiting ‘Guest Hosts’. Monday, January 19^th , is Matt Maher (‘Your Grace Is Enough’). Tuesday, it’s Christian Comedian, Chonda Pierce from 7-9 AM. Thursday, Kim has long-time guest host favorite, Tammy Trent. The ‘Family Friendly Morning Show with Doug & Kim’ are in their sixth year and is heard nationally on over 80 plus radio stations. Fed live on Salem Music Network’s ‘Today’s Christian Music’ and heard in middle Tennessee on WFFH/Nashville (94 FM The FISH). (1/15)

WPOZ/Orlando (Z88.3) knows that getting healthy is the number one New Year’s resolution each year, but realistically more will fail than succeed.  This year, Ellis and Tyler from the Z88.3 Morning Show want to change that by providing listeners the tools and encouragement needed to follow through with their goals. Ellis and Tyler’s Dash for Health is an 8 week initiative where listeners are invited to join either Team Ellis or Team Tyler through the station’s website.
 
“We feel this is an amazing opportunity to join with the community to learn how to make healthier lifestyle changes a priority in 2009,” said Tyler McKenzie of the Z88.3 Morning Show. “I’ve had the desire, but not the tools to do this for a long time,” added Ellis B. Feaster, “And it’s so exciting to see the response we’ve been receiving.”  (1/15)

WAWZ/New York (STAR 99.1) presents an option to all of the bad news you keep hearing on the economy, etc.. When you lose hope in the world, where do you turn? At least 7,000 people will be turning to their faith and their belief in God at the Prudential Center on January 23^rd, 2009. Chris Tomlin is bringing his “Hello Love” tour to Newark, NJ to perform songs about that “thing” that so many people are looking for. The concert is taking place in Newark, NJ, the site of racial riots in the 1960’s. Contemporary Christian, Caucasian artist Chris Tomlin will be taking the stage with Gospel, African American artist Israel Houghton that evening celebrating the great strides we can make together in racial relations by coming together to worship. (1/15)

KTSY/Boise listeners rang in the New Year as over 600 people got together to ring in 2009 at KTSY's first ever New Year's Eve Party. Highlights of the night included laser-tag, mini-golf, go-karts, video games and live music. The best part of all, however, was that the party was for a great cause. Those who brought food for the local Boise Rescue Mission received additional tokens good for many of the attractions during the night.  Almost 400 pounds of food was collected, much of it brought children and teenagers. The night ended with a live countdown and celebration complete with party favors and a balloon drop at midnight. (1/15)

Positive Alternative Radio, Inc (Joy FM) morning show, The Morning JoyRide with Daniel, Candi, & Melody conducted a live open forum with Bill Gaither on Thursday’s show. The hosts called a vacationing Gaither to discuss the changes in the Gaither Vocal Band lineup and to hear directly from the source of this week’s major news. You can listen to the audio clip on demand at www.joyfm.org where the mp3 audio is archived. In the interview, Gaither spends time talking about the departure of Guy Penrod and Marsh Hall and the impact they have made on the life of the group; he also speaks to the technical nature of which artist will sing what parts in the new lineup, now consisting of Wes Hampton, Mark Lowry, David Phelps, Michael English, and himself. (1/15)

Christian Talk AM 630 KCIS/Seattle debuted The Huckabee Report Monday, January 12th, 2009.  The four-minute commentary airs twice daily at 7:55 a.m. and 2:55 p.m.  KCIS Program Director, Mark Holland shares, “This is a major coup for KCIS to land The Huckabee Report.  We are thrilled to offer a segment that is both enlightening and entertaining while adding an occasional smile to our listener’s faces.  Mike Huckabee is not afraid to be bold about sharing practical reasons why his faith is relevant, especially in today’s world.” (1/13)

WPAR-WRXT/Roanoke-Lynchburg (Spirit FM) morning personality Dave Clark has promoted to Program Director. (1/13)

WAY-FM and World Vision announce a national tour featuring Matthew West and Sanctus Real, with special guest Jason Gray. The tour will kick off January 28 in Charleston, SC and will travel to a total of 12 WAY-FM radio markets, finishing up in Denver, CO on February 20. Steve Quant, Director of Media Acquisition for World Vision stated, "I'm always amazed at the generosity of God's people. Audiences in these twelve cities will not only enjoy a night of powerful music, but will also fuel World Vision's efforts by forever changing lives of children all over the globe." The tour is a component of the partnership between the two organizations that began last summer. Lloyd Parker, WAY-FM Chief Operating Officer noted, “The tour was designed to bring the outstanding ministry of World Vision to the local station level. Working with key WAY-FM artists like Sanctus Real and Matthew West will give a great evening of music to our listeners.”  (1/13)

New Christian station KTDV/State Center, IA (91.9 The Dove) went on the Friday 1/9. KTDV is a member of the KDAO family of stations which originates from the KDAO studio in Marshalltown, IA. The station features program Christian AC. Mark Osmundson, general manager of the KDAO stations, noted this is the only full power Christian station in town. Local programming will be phased in as feedback is provided from listeners but there are already a few local shows in place on the station.

KSGN/Riverside PD Bryan O'Neal checks with some great news from the Riverside PPM Fall 2008 quarterly. In Women 35-54, KSGN ranks 3rd with a 5.1 share!  Mornings ranks 3rd (5.7), middays is 3rd (6.4), afternoons is 4th (4.9), and nights ranks 6th (4.0).  If you rank only the Inland Empire stations, KSGN ranks #2 in this demo!   KSGN ranks 3^rd in Women 25-54 of all Inland Empire stations!   (1/12)

Listeners across the U.S. gave nearly $370,000 to “WAY-2-Give,” the first-ever national fundraising campaign for WAY-FM Media Group, which included targeted direct mail plus a two day on-air fundraising event on almost all of its stations. “We needed to try something new this year, so we put together a unique and integrated campaign combining direct mail and online giving with a national fundraising opportunity,” explains Senior Vice President Dusty Rhodes.  “Considering how everyone is feeling the affects of this economy, WAY-FM is deeply grateful to its donors for helping us at this time.” On-air messaging for “WAY-2-Give” was unique in that it asked listeners to stand in the gap for other donors who had to curtail donations to the ministry because of the declining economy. Brant Hansen, Donna Cruz, Jeff Connell along with Wally of Total Axxess served as the main air talents for this two day event.  Denver’s WAY-FM conducted its own separate event a week earlier, contributing to the overall total raised. (1/8)

WMIT/Black Mountain (106.9 The Light) was recently named small-market “Radio Station of the Year” by Radio and Records Magazine for the second year in a row.  “This acknowledgement from our peers is a high honor. It’s a credit to our team and their dedication to serve with excellence,” said Executive Director Jim Kirkland. “Our number one goal remains the same: may all we do and who we are be used of God to impact lives with the message of Jesus, through both music and The Word. The ability to serve Him is an award with true meaning!”  (1/8)

Former KKSP/Little Rock (Spirit 93.3) PD/Morning Show host Don Burns has accepted the PD position at KXGM/Cedar Rapids (89.1 The Spirit) starting this coming Monday Jan 12. Don will do a live and local morning show with plans to add morning dayparts in the future. (1/7)

New station CKJJ/Bancroft is on the air running final tests at 103.5 and will re-broadcast United Christian Broadcasters (UCB).  UCB is a worldwide network of radio stations that originated in Auckland, New Zealand, and has expanded its broadcast range to 27 nations. It came it Canada in 2003, and Belleville was its first stop, says GM Garry Quinn.  “Technically, we are an adult contemporary station, our target audience, falling between the ages of 24 to 55,” says Quinn.

MOVEMENT: Tiffany Rood joins KCFY/Yuma, AZ for nights... Troy Klein returns to KVMV/McAllen as Promotions/Community Relations Director... Geoff Pinkus joins Salem's WIND/Chicago for live overnights... WNCT/Greenville exits the format... KWRD/Dallas GM Peter Thomson exits the station for FamilyNet TV and Radio... Lead guitarist Jody Davis has re-joined Inpop group The Newsboys...  (1/5)

KHZR/KPVR/St. Louis (JOY-FM) announced it's Project: JOY for January, a free trip for a JOY-FM listener to visit a brand new Compassion International project in Guatemala.  This is the same project that JOY-FM listeners fully sponsored in December with it's Christmas With Compassion event.  Although JOY-FM had set aside 12 hours to meet the goal of 150 children sponsored, that goal was met in less than 3 hours.  With such an overwhelming response, the support drive continued and sponsored over 400 children that day.  The stations' annual mission trip will head to the project in August. (1/5)

WORQ/Green Bay (Q90FM) Director of Broadcast Operations Jim Kid Raider tells HisAir.Net, "I am proud to announce that our Listeners have once again come thru for us!  Our Twice a year Q-Drive (Sharathon) goal has been met! Plus additional monies for our Hopenet Ministry have come in! Thanks to ALL!  (1/5)

Pam from the morning show at KTIS/Minneapolis leaves Tuesday Jan 6 for Belize and a visit to several KTIS supported Christian radio stations. Pam says "We’re going to teach radio workshops because many of their mostly volunteer staff have had no formal radio training.  I’m very excited and request your prayer support for safe travel, health and God’s inspiration for all of us."  Learn more about My Refuge Radio at http://www.myrefugebelize.org/radio.htm. (1/5)

KDUV/Visalia APD Shannon Steele has been promoted to the Program Director role, effective January 5th replacing the exiting Joe Croft. Shannon joined KDUV in 2001 coming from WDJC/Birmingham. Croft served as KDUV PD for more than a decade and will remain at the station in a part time role as he pursues a nursing degree.  (1/2)

WCVK/Bowling Green PD Susan Woodard checks in with HisAir.Net. "We are praising God for recent ratings!  With 18 stations making the "local" list in our over-saturated small market, Spring 2008 Arbitron shows WCVK as #1 in TSL and #3 for AQH (4.3), both for Women 25-54!  That TSL for weekdays 6a-Midnight is 8.7 -- God is so good! (1/2)

American Family Radio (AFR) has launched a new AFR Talk format flipping a number of it's current AC and CHR music stations to the new format. According to AFR President Tim Wildmon, “American Family Radio is making a change in format for many of our stations beginning with the New Year. We are introducing AFR Talk. This format will feature a mix of excellent live talk radio programs as well as some of the very best Bible teaching programs available. This change in format is in keeping with our mission of getting truthful information out to the Christian community so we can be the salt and light that Jesus commands his followers to be. We realize some of our listeners are going to miss the music they have become accustomed to hearing. However, we think it is in the overall best interest of our ministry to change to this new news/talk/teaching format." Michael Reagan recently joined the AFR talk line-up. (1/2)