Industry News Bits 3-24-20
Christian Radio stations are adapting to the “work at home” model (pictured at left). WPER/Fredericksburg listener engagement director Alison Mayberry checked in with HisAir today, “Well, the world may be shutting down, but WPER is still inspiring listeners from our homes. Today, we are grateful for technology so we can pray together for our listeners and still meet and discuss everything that is going on in the world!”
Salem Radio Network talk show host Hugh Hewitt has agreed to terms on a contract extension, keeping him on the air through December of 2028. Hugh has been broadcasting for Salem since July of 2000, and currently airs his national program from 6am to 9am ET.
“I look forward to not only this fall’s presidential election but the next two presidential campaigns and all the news in between them as well,” Said Hewitt. “The past 20 years have been two decades of upheaval and crisis, a sudden devastating attack on America, of war and terror and now a pandemic, of hard fought elections and massive legislative and legal changes. It’s been a privilege to cover these breaking news events for three hours a day with the extraordinary team and guest list we have assembled and rely upon,” continued Hewitt.
Hewitt’s national footprint has grown to over 450 affiliates across the country, and is also seen on video simulcast on Townhall.com. Hewitt also appears regularly on NBC News programs like “Meet the Press,” and is a regular contributor to the Washington Post.
“Hugh has been a Salem stalwart since 2000,” Salem Media Group CEO Ed Atsinger said. “He’s one of the most respected voices in American media today, and as Salem continues to grow our national and international footprint, Hugh’s program remains a flagship show for the news/talk format which Salem helped pioneer. It’s a respected forum for all voices with an emphasis on free speech and religious liberty. Hugh has represented Salem on the national stage since the election of 2000, most visibly during Salem’s partnership with CNN during the 2016 debates, and we are delighted to assure he will be doing so not just in the course of the momentous choice before the country this fall, but also those that lie ahead in 2024 and 2028,” said Atsinger.
Earlier this week Kenny and Brittany from the Morning Journey on WRVL/Lynchburg (The Journey) started playing the occasional Christmas song during their show. Kenny, who is also Program Director, said “People need joy right now. Any kind of joy we can bring. What brings more joy than Jingle Bells!”
Listeners have responded with one caller saying that as she is homeschooling her kids, they have a “dance party” every time a Christmas song comes on.
Here’s a quick reminder that all Christian Radio stations are invited to participate in “A Day Of Hope” this Thursday, March 26th. The effort is being organized by KSBJ/Houston.
For 24 hours stations will pray for God’s heart of love, mercy and truth to dwell in us and show us how to face the challenges posed by the new coronavirus. Each hour, will focus prayer on a different aspect of this disease. Pastors, influencers and listeners will call in and lead us in corporate prayer, as well. Together, we will stand strong in faith, unite in prayer and remain grateful that we serve a God who listens. You can find a list of hourly prayer points to use at your station HERE. KSBJ PD Troy West has made imaging elements available for you to use on the air.
** If your station plans to participate please email ted@hisair.net
Prayer List:
Penny Galloway
Scott Jackson
Submit your station or label news HERE
