[1]
[2]

A look back to 2007

July to December

July Jambles

Cash 1700 shifts direction on August 1 to San Diego 1700 AM, and Mark Larson has been named as the new Program Director for the station at the top end of the AM dial.

Mark writes: “A funny thing happened to me on the way to Capitol Hill: I got an offer I couldn’t refuse. Visitors to [3] LarsonBlog.com have read about what’s gone on since I chose to leave KOGO in early June. Unhappy with the corporate-mandated switch from 12-3 p.m. to 6 to 8 p.m., I opted out for a variety of reasons. I really enjoyed my time there (and the local people), but it wasn’t what I signed up for.

“It became clear to me that deciding to leave KOGO was an opportunity to take some time to sort out all of the things on my to-do list. That meant assessing everything from whether I wanted to keep doing radio in its current out-of-town-corporate-controlled environment to expanding my own media services company and speakers agency (both have been doing increasingly well in recent years). I had also been considering running for Duncan Hunter’s seat in Congress.

“But as I’ve noted on my [4] Blog, it’s amazing to see what happens when you take a risk and step out into uncharted territory. Free agency is an wonderful thing, and people often reach out with opportunities that weren’t envisioned initially. Enter John Lynch, CEO of Broadcast Company of the Americas (owner of XX Sports 1090 and 105.7 and Cash 1700 AM). John and I worked together as part of the KFMB team in the mid 1970s and were also part of the San Diego Radio Broadcasters Association, where I was President for eight years. I have always appreciated his love for local-controlled radio, creativity, energy and entrepreneurial spirit. So it got my attention when he began asking me lots of “what if’s”. In the last couple of weeks the meetings got rolling, I agreed to do a consulting project for the stations then…well.. it just all came together and made sense… and I signed a four year deal. “We agreed to build a new station: San Diego 1700AM. “On August 1st, we’ll change from Cash 1700AM and I’ll begin a new live, local morning show from 5 to 9AM. San Diego-based Ray Lucia will continue to do 9 a.m. to noon. New local programming will soon be announced in the 12-3 p.m. slot, and a variety of San Diego and Southern California shows will air 3-6 p.m., including longtime financial expert Bill Holland. Additional programs will be added in coming weeks, along with enhanced news and information.

“We’re also creating a very strong partnership with XX Sports Radio, and cross-promoting beginning today. XX Sports reports will air on San Diego 1700, and among the things) I’m looking forward to will be a reuniting of yours truly with Ted Leitner (ala our KFMB days) for a regular morning update. I will also do commentaries on XX Sports Radio starting in August. For me, getting back together with the station that brings you Padres baseball is extra special, reminding me of the many years when we were together at KFMB. After my 31 years in San Diego, it sure seems like a natural fit.

William “Tayari” Howard Day in the city of San Diego. This honor was presented by Council President Pro Tem Tony Young this morning at The San Diego City Council Chambers office commemorating Tayari’s 35 years of broadcasting and community service.

Throughout his career, Tayari has helped raise over one million dollars for over 30 different non-profit organizations in San Diego. Over the last 21 years, he’s worked with several community street fairs including the Encanto Street Fair, the newly formed Imperial Fest in City Heights, The International Village Street Fair and he’s the co-founder of Operation K.I.D.S.

Tayari is one of the “Lites Out Lounge” hosts and can be heard Mondays through Wednesdays at 7:00 PM and Saturday mornings from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Smooth Jazz 98.1 KIFM.

On US 95.7’s Tony and Kris Morning show, former American Idol contestant Constantine Maroulis stopped by to talk about how American Idol helped launch his career. Constantine is now on The Bold and The Beautiful on CBS playing himself! He is also releasing an album later this month. While in studio, Constantine tried to teach Tony and Kris his signature “rock star” gaze.

San Diego 1700AM update: Program Director Mark Larson is making fast moves to build the new Broadcast Company of the Americas station. Not only will he be doing a new live, local 5 to 9 a.m. talk show, but he’s set to announce expanded news coverage from NBC Radio and the addition of Dennis Miller’s radio show.

KOGO is extending the try-outs for the 6 to 8 p.m. shift. The evening opening at the talk station happened when Mark Larson hung up his KOGO headphones. One thing that shouldn’t happen — that did — was to have Glenn Beck’s weekend show replayed last Monday night. Beck’s show is live from 6 to 9 a.m. and having a weekend replay is a head scratcher. What would be good, as KOGO has made a news-shift and talk commitment in September, have the early evening shift lined up soon. Hopefully, it’ll be live and local, not a syndicated host.

Gary Kelley ended his TV career at KGTV yesterday. In an email, Gary wrote: “Today is my last day at 10 News after 11 years. 9 1/2 of the last years bringing you the weather. For a native San Diegan it has been a dream come true. God bless you and your family and thank you for everything. I truly value you watching and hope to see you around town in our beautiful city of San Diego.” Gary radio history in San Diego includes KCBQ, B100, KPRI and KSON-FM. Gary is on-line at [5] The Kelley Co. Stay Tuned!

KOGO is changing morning drive time and appears to be dropping its news commitment to San Diego. Being added is Chip Franklin who is slated to hit the airwaves after Labor Day. The Baltimore Sun indicates that Chip will be doing a morning drive time talk show. (photo: Baltimore Sun Chiaki Kawajiri) “This is a tremendous, life-changing opportunity for me,” told the Baltimore Sun. He is leaving WBAL, 1090 AM, on Aug. 3. Chip tells SDRadio jokes about coming to San Diego and learning local sayings like “La Jolla”: “I can barely speak English… Look forward to meeting everyone… Thanks for the note-great site.”

Morning newscaster and utility man for Clear Channel in San Diego Dave Mason is leaving the San Diego complex on September 1. NTS Aircheck Today reported that Dave has started looking for his next radio opportunity.

His broadcast career in San Diego includes Kool 99.3, K-Joy 94.1, Mix 95.7 and continues to host the weekend Beatles show (live of course) on 101.5 KGB. Dave, in fact, was probably the only on air host to broadcast a live personal appearance on one station and ended on another as K-JOY moved frequency’s from 94.1 to 95.7 FM.

His vast background includes Pittsburgh’s WTAE and WHTX, WKRC Cincinnati and WBBF Rochester. Mason first joined then-Jacor Communications 16 years ago and remained with the the group when it merged with Clear Channel Communications. Dave told NTS Aircheck that he’s “never missed a day on the air” in all of those 16 years. “I think I should get a gold watch just for sick time served,” he told the on-line publication.

The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame has announced that Cliff Dumas will be included in the 2007 class. He has spent most of his working life in the country music industry. Cliff has amassed an incredible list of accolades including being named in 1990 by the CMA in Nashville, Radio Personality of the Year in all markets. He has been named Country Radio Personality of the Year by the CCMA, RPM Big Country Awards, and The Record for 18 years consecutively, and along with his wife Lisa, they were named Radio Personalities of the Year when they co-hosted the nationally syndicated program Canadian Country Countdown. In addition to his work with radio, Dumas has been “the voice” of CMT Canada for close to 15 years, wrote for the CCMA Awards show for 14 years, producing 4 of those years, and was “the voice” for 17 years. Cliff was part of the team that launched Toronto’s first Country FM station and has written over 20 network country TV programs including specials for Terri Clark, Paul Brandt and Anne Murray along with various projects for CMT and PBS.

760 KFMB-AM is presenting the 2007 Hannity Freedom Concert. The Hannity Freedom Concert is tonight in the Chula Vista amphitheater and features Montgomery Gentry with Lee Greenwood and Michael W. Smith. The event will also feature Freedom Alliance founder and honorary chairman LtCol Oliver L. North, (USMC) Ret., Newt Gingrich, Mark Levin, Rick Roberts and much more!

The Freedom Concert will honor our men and women in uniform and benefit the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund for the children of our military heroes who have been killed or permanently disabled in service to our country.

KFMB Station’s President and CEO, Ed Trimble, promotes Gina Landau as the Vice President/General Manager. Trimble, who had also been wearing the General Manager’s hat for the past month announces this move with a great deal of pride, excitement and relief.

“Throughout her twelve years at KFMB, Gina has done an excellent job and has been a major contributor in the successes of the radio stations. I am confident that Gina’s strong leadership ability and extensive knowledge of the radio broadcasting industry will combine to even further enhance the successes at both 760 KFMB and 100.7 JACK FM.”

Wes Poe, music director and on-air personality, has left KSON-FM. He told All Access he is “looking for new opportunities”. Wes’ record has been proven and can be reached at [6] wespoe@aol.com. Also on Wednesday, the Marconi Awards were announced by the NAB, and KSON-FM was nominated as Country Station of the Year.

Spanglish: Entravision’s Super Estrella 107.1-FM has added English-language hits to its current Contemporary Hits Radio (CHR) format. The station, based in Los Angeles, can also be heard on 107.1 FM from Fallbrook. Tapping the important Latino advertising market, KSSE is reaching more bilingual listeners.

August angst

September 9 is the date for the Third Annual Jazz 88 Ocean Beach Jazz Festival. It will be a day-long celebration of straight-ahead jazz and blues, caressed by the sun, against the background of the magnificent Pacific Ocean.

The lineup is stellar, starting with the Jazz 88 All-Star band, who bring a full sound to the stage and a musical camaraderie that comes from years of working together. The group includes by Jazz 88’s Percussive Profiles host Barry Farrar, Jr. on drums, trumpeter Steve Ebner, and tenor saxophonist Bob Campbell. the All Stars The rhythm section features one of San Diego finest pianists, Mikan Zlatkovich, as well as bassist Brian McConnell.

Broadcast Company of the America’s CEO John Lynch announced the addition of “New York” Myke Shelby to the lineup of the all new San Diego 1700 AM. “New York” Myke Shelby will begin on the Labor Day Holiday, Monday, September 3 from noon to 1 p.m.

San Diego 1700AM, a live and local news talk station for San Diego about San Diego formerly CASH 1700AM, debuted on August 1 and features Mark Larson mornings between 5 and 9 a.m.

“New York” Myke owns a San Diego motorcycle shop and ran for mayor of San Diego in 2005. An Air Force Vietnam veteran and Brooklyn native, New York Myke moved to San Diego in 1993 and has an extensive background in radio and television. He currently hosts “The New York Myke Show” on wsradio.com weekly. Mark Larson, program director and morning host said, “His name says “New York” but he’s all San Diego.

Leitner-Hamilton To Team Up For San Diego State Football Broadcasts In 2007
Broadcasting veterans in the booth on AM 600 KOGO

Aztec Sports Properties, a Learfield Sports’ property, and Clear Channel Broadcasting announced Thursday that Ted Leitner and Lee Hamilton will serve as the broadcast team for the upcoming 2007 San Diego State football season. The pair can be heard on AM 600 KOGO, the new radio home of Aztec athletics.

Leitner continues his role as play-by-play announcer, signing a five-year deal to remain as the voice of both Aztec football and men’s basketball. Hamilton will provide football color commentary this season, while working as on-air talent at both KOGO and AM 570 Radio in Los Angeles.

“It is very exciting to have two people of this caliber in the same booth at the same time,” said SDSU Director of Athletics Jeff Schemmel. “Aztec fans will benefit by having two of the premier announcers in San Diego calling our games.”

1360KLSD, celebrating its third year as a progressive talker in San Diego, was the scene of a very successful fan-driven rally to save the station. For sometime, the station was thought to be retooling, possibly for sports radio programming featuring SDSU Aztec sports programming and possibly ESPN Radio. As ear witnessed on the radio today, the listeners of the station told the staff and management that they want to progressive talk to stick around. Morning host Stacy Taylor emphasized that the proposed change had nothing to do with Program Director Cliff Albert nor was this a ploy by Clear Channel Communications in San Diego as a publicity stunt. (Pictured: Stacy with PD Cliff Albert at Monday’s rally) The rally was, as Stacy told the audience, all driven by grass roots listeners of the station. Coming by to show support for the station was Bree Walker, currently an LA-based host on KTLK and Air America. Also stopping by was San Diego City Attorney Mike Aguirre, along with KLSD host Jon Elliott.

KiFM is doing another concert by the ocean — in North County. “We are bringing Jazz at the Beach back to the Oceanside Pier Amphitheater on Sunday, September 23 from 3:30 p.m., until sunset.”

The show stars Boney James and Paul Taylor and KiFM hosts. See the [7] KiFM web site for more information. Tickets are on sale for the event — and the event will probably sell out as previous events have.

San Diego 1700’s Program Director and morning show host, Mark Larson has begun his regular commentaries on XX Sports Radio at 1090 AM and 105.7 FM. His features were very popular when he was on KOGO. The commentaries are heard on XX Sports Mondays and Fridays right before 3 p.m. Mark writes the time is 2:58 p.m.

Mark’s also just begun his 32nd year on San Diego radio, something unmatched in the current morning talk show battles, and he’s only 52!

World famous Cindy Spicer is hanging her invite mid-days at US 95.7. She’ll even take your request and serve the song up San Diego style. “The workday is so much more fun when you can have your country music along. Call me for requests weekdays from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at 858-570-1957 or send me an e-mail at cindy@us957.com,” Cindy writes at [8] US 95.7.

KOGO has adjusted the weekend schedule. Steve Yuhas doubles his talk show to two hours on Sunday. He kicks it off at 4 p.m. Starting at 6 is Rage Radio until the Drudge Report takes to the airwaves at 7 p.m. Steve deserves a second hour and here’s hoping station management gives him one more.

Tori Peck at KSON’s country morning show had a rough weekend: she was part of the San Diego’s Bachelorettes being auctioned off to benefit the Surfrider Foundation. Tori writes: “The things I get myself into!! It’s a great cause and I’m excited about my date package……a private helicopter ride around our beautiful city and dinner for two at 94th Aero squardron where our helicopter will drop us off.”

Pictured is Tori with last week’s Prognostic Pooch from the Helen Woodward Animal Center.

This morning, Cliff announced the morning show have named the lucky winner “Whirlybird Guy.” All in fun as the Surfrider Foundation raised money. Hear more with Cliff and Company at KSON.

AM 1700 is building the line up. Program Director and morning host Mark Larson writes: “Miller, Reagan, Neal Boortz (are) all in the lineup now. Mark adds that “Lars Larson is now 1-4AM overnight.” Lars was previously heard at 760 KFMB.

Mark indicates that his show will be expanding local news coverage, first and foremost in the 5-9AM spot. Starting next month, on coming Sept. 3 , San Diego’s own New York Myke will host a new, live and local show at noon.

Next week, Mark writes, Bob Filner, “as far left as I am right, will be our special correspondent in IRAQ!” Plus today, Mark had Bree Walker on. Bree has a Los Angeles based radio show and is also heard nationwide on Air America. Mark adds: “See how a compassionate conservative like yours truly reaches out to the lefties?”

Noted: San Diego’s own Shotgun Tom Kelly is part of the FOX line up. You can hear him do the voice over for [9] America’s Most Wanted. Not only is Shotgun involved, it also involves Tony Pepper.

With Lars Larson at AM 1700, KFMB-AM adds Phil Hendrie overnights.

Clear Channel Radio spent 1.2 million dollars so far this year on lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C. Perhaps the elected officials don’t know which station to turn too …..

Star 94.1’s Little Tommy Sablan writes about meeting Enrique Iglesias at the Jeff and Jer showgram. The recording star picked Tommy’s son, Eddie out of the throng of visitors. Tommy wrote, “The minute I met him outside in the parking lot, he shook my hand with respect and I could tell right there he was a real person and not a BIG TIME STAR doing a small little radio show. I especially respected him a lot after he took the time to talk with my little boy Eddie just out of the blue. He talked to Eddie about what he thought Eddie’s nationality was and about skateboarding and everything. Seal was really cool to Eddie too and I will never forget that, but for Enrique to have about 50 cute women in the hallway waiting for him and he picks Eddie out and hangs out with my son for a few minutes, it just made me realize how cool the dude really is!

Also: Tommy’s quest for walking and inviting listeners to join him paid off. Tommy commented on air that once the group reached 100, he’ll do a special bbq. The group reached 146 when Tommy made good on his promise. Over 100 walkers joined the producer of the showgram for a special bbq happened. More photos at [10] Jeff and Jer’s section at Star 94.1.

Hal Fishman, a Los Angeles TV news icon of more than 50 years, has died from colon cancer. The 75-year-old anchorman spent his career on L.A. television and was considered to be one of the longest-running news anchors in the nation. He was last scene on KTLA TV 5.

La Preciosa has left the San Diego market. Regional Mexican La Mejor is on 97.7 and 99.3 FM. 97.7 is running Tijuana spots and 99.3 is targeting San Diego. Both stations are programmed out of Mexico City.

I like Glenn Beck; he can be entertaining at times. What I don’t like is the non-decision by KOGO or their corporate headquarters bringing in another out of town program — that is 12-hours old. Glenn’s show airs live from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. (and can be heard live on XM and one Southern California station). What mystifies me is the drive to have a local host on the dominate station in the market. A few tried out, however despite feedback to the management at AM 600, up comes a 12-hour old show of Glenn Beck. Local issues have to wait until the next day. Sure, Glenn’s track record is good — and he has a successful CNN Headline program too. TV viewers watching his replay on CNN Headline will see topics covered in the radio show — updated.

With KOGO’s shift to all talk in September, and no major long form newscasts, it is disappointing that local voices cannot be heard when there was a veil promise of a San Diego talk show in the 6 to 8 p.m. slot. If you want local, it’s KCBQ’s Rick Amato on at 9 p.m., giving talk radio a local voice at 1170 AM.

Meanwhile, it’s a 12-hour old show of Glenn Beck with quality talent such as Dave Palet & Jeff Dotseth on the beach in the market. Dave and Jeff have better tans and know how to pronounce La Jolla.

KFMB station’s Vice President and General Manager, Gina Landau appoints Mike O’Reilly as the new Program Director for 100.7 Jack FM.

Landau, said: “Mike O’Reilly will be joining KFMB Stations as the next in a long line of exceptional Program Directors for 100.7 FM. Mike’s experience with the origin and growth of the JACK brand puts him in a rare league. His desire to take the reigns of another JACK, coinciding with our search is our luck indeed!”

O’Reilly has worked with JACK since the format’s American inception to the U.S., in 2004. He was the Program Director of KCJK in Kansas City. O’Reilly was one of the first program directors to take the format to #1 in 25-54 Adults; and, he assisted with the launch of the JACK brand at WJJK (Indianapolis).

Mark Larsonwas in at Cooperstown to see his pal, Tony Gwynn join the Hall of Fame. Mark writes from the road on Monday: “My oldest son Jeff and I spent the weekend here in Cooperstown, New York and attended several special events, thanks to Tony. One of the most amazing was at the Hall of Fame last night, at private reception (for members, family and invited guests) featuring the largest gathering of Hall of Famers (53) ever. Stars we had a chance to chat with (besides Tony and Cal) included Willy Mays, Ozzie Smith, Lou Brock, Dave Winfield and Reggie Jackson. Got some fun photos of Yogi Berra chowing down at the snack table, too. The Padres also know how to throw a great party.”

September Static

Shotgun Tom Kelly was named as Radio and Records Classic Hits Personality/Show of the Year. Congratulations Shotgun!

He has completed ten years at LA’s K-EARTH 101 and can be heard in the afternoon drive home in most of San Diego. Shotgun got his start in San Diego and was heard on KOGO, KCBQ and other stations in the market. His trademark style complements his hat — it’s legendary.

US 95.7’s Cindy Spicer is heading out and moving to Costa Rica. She and her husband will be calling the Central American country home. The midday host will be behind the mic until Wednesday, Oct. 10. Mike O’Brian has tapped her replacement and will be making an announcement soon.

Developing: Scot Tempesta says he was “fired” on Friday from KLSD. As quiet as the rumors about shifting programming were the past two weeks the roar on the streets today: AM 1360 is preparing to shift programming, most likely Monday, Oct. 15. A new set of call letters are expected to used.
The new programming has not been confirmed and is about three weeks away, according to station insiders.

Last weekend, AM stations could extend their digital broadcast day beyond local sunset. Locally, KOGO-AM is presently the only AM station with HDRadio. Scott Rice, Clear Channel San Diego’s Chief Operator, Staff Engineer, and Station Historian writes about the latest milestone for AM 600: “The greatest station in the history of broadcasting, AM 600 KOGO, is now HD all the time,” Scott said.

“The FCC approved night time HD and it became law (on) September 15th. KOGO of course has been on the cutting edge of broadcast technology since the very beginning in 1925 on the top of the U.S. Grant Hotel with the brand new Western Electric studios and transmitter. KOGO was the first commercial broadcast station in San Diego (as 1220 KFVW), KOGO was the first network affiliate in San Diego (NBC).”

Scott also researched that “KOGO-FM (94.1) was the first FM station in San Diego, KOGO was the first to broadcast in AM Stereo (the Kahn System), and now of course KOGO has become the first AM-HD (IBOC) in San Diego.”

IBOC is “In Band, On Channel” as the standard for HDRadio for U.S. radio stations.

Scott Fybush who has a passion for photographing transmitter sites, says that KOGO is also home to “KSON-FM 97.3 atop one tower and KLNV 106.5 atop the other.” KOGO’s AM design has the 5kw hugging the Pacific Coast. (Click on the map for a larger picture of the KOGO coverage pattern.)

Also noted: For the seventh consecutive year Scott Fybush presents, the Tower Site Calendar. It is ready to grace the walls of your office, rack room or transmitter shack - and Scott promises that the 2008 edition is better than ever!

Tower Site Calendar 2008 features 14 full-color, high-quality images of transmitter sites from coast (WGAN Portland) to coast (KAST Astoria, our cover model).

Visit [11] Fybush.com for ordering information. Order by October 1 to assure 2007 prices.

(KOGO tower photo courtesy of [12] Scott Fybush, All Rights Reserved and used with permission.)

(KOGO radio coverage map [13] Radio-Locator.com. KOGO antenna aerial map from [14] Google Earth.)

KyXy Cafe & HoS: Charlie Quinn Operations Manager of CBS Radio in San Diego announced that KyXy and Radio Sophie have launched their HD2 multicast. Charlie writes: “On Friday morning 9/14 at 6 a.m. KyXy and KSCF began broadcasting our HD2 formats.

“KyXy’s HD-2 station is called “The Cafe” and features an eclectic blend of coffee house music including contemporary pop to blues, reggae, ambient chill, even classic 40s and 50s vocalists like Sarah Vaughn, Bessie Smith and Cab Calloway.

“KSCF’s HD-2 station is “House of Sophie” targeting what internet radio considers one of it’s fastest growing subculture formats, Electronica. “H.O.S.” features the most popular product from 15 electronica subgroupings including Trance, Chillout, Hard Dance, Ambient, Pop Synth, etc. “H.O.S.” is mood sensitive making it both compatible at work and when it’s time to play.”

Both stations will be offered with the option of live streaming audio through their respective analog/HD-1 websites. The Cafe will be available at [15] KyXy.com, and HoS at [16] Radio Sophie.

San Diego 1700’s Mark Larson, in the middle of the issues every morning on the new talk station, was also in the middle of Emmy Weekend in LA. He emceed the Media Fellowship International “Awards Weekend Praise Brunch” at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The 9th annual gathering salutes people of faith in the media, and was attended by over 350 people, including several Emmy and Grammy winners, as well as Oscar nominees. It was the seventh time he’s emceed the special event. Also noted that Mark had on Councilmember Donna Frye who is trying broker a meeting between Mark and Congressman Bob Filner.

Radio icon, and a man who stated he only wanted to tell the truth, Fred Lewis has died at the age of 78. He was best known for his work on The Heart of San Diego and publicly said he was proud of the 653 interviews that were produced.

He was also the San Diego Gulls hockey team announcer in the 1960s. The San Diego Sports Arena also hired him as the public address announcer; and he was also the voice of the San Diego Rockets NBA team.

His radio ties are deep as he had a lasting mark at KSON, KGB-AM, KDEO, and KSDO. At 1130 KSDO, he was part of the original team that introduced a news-talk to the San Diego radio audience.

For fifteen years he was the sports director of KSDS Jazz 88. He also did a series of TV shows for Cox Cable.

The San Diego city council has declared that Sept. 18 as Fred Lewis Day. The docket can be read [17] here.

Shotgun Tom Kelly sends this gem of a photo in: “(from left to right) Ralph Evans, Bill Zoeller, past KOGO engineers and Jack Vincent past KCBQ engineer with Scott Rice in front of the old KOGO 5000 transmitter on Emerald Hills.

Scott Rice got two of the former KOGO engineers and one former KCBQ engineer together at the KOGO transmitter site on Emerald Hills. They all took a look at the old KOGO transmitter and told stories about their working on the old 5-kw watt transmitter.

Afternoon host at KOGO and the Radio Mayor of San Diego, Roger Hedgecock has joined the Speakers Group. The company is operated by Mark Larson Media Services. Roger is one of the 35-speakers that have extensive background in various topics.

Roger brings an impressive bio to the speakers group: He has received the Best Talk Show award for 2004, 2005 and 2006 and the 2002 and 2004 Excellence in Journalism award from the San Diego Press Club. He is constant in his beliefs and is one of the few local host behind the mic that can rally the listeners into action.

On the national front, Roger has received the Gold Medal for Broadcast Excellence at the New York International Radio Festival and the Silver Medal for International Radio Programming at the New York Festival for World Media. He has been twice nominated for the prestigious Marconi Award…and has been named one of the 100 Top Talk Show Hosts in America by Talkers Magazine for nine consecutive years. Roger has also filled in many times for Rush Limbaugh nationwide on the EIB network.

[18] As announced this week, Roger will start a nationwide Saturday broadcast from KOGO studios. Plans are in place to have a nationwide talk show in 2008.

Meanwhile over at 760 KFMB, Rick Roberts celebrated ten years in the San Diego market. When he first came to the market from the Metroplex in Texas, Rick started at KOGO. He’s still at it today at KFMB. As posted on the [19] 760KFMB website, “It’s a full decade of getting under people’s skin… A decade of pushing for the preservation of the United States and its constitution… A decade of protecting our kids… A decade of covering what others will not…”

Congratulations, Rick on ten years in San Diego.

October

This image, from NASA’s Earth Observatory web site, is of the fires in California and was captured at 1:55 p.m. U.S. Pacific on Monday. Places where MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spec- troradiometer) detected actively burning fires are outlined in red. Thick streamers of smoke unfurl over the Pacific Ocean. [20] Visit the page.

Radio coverage continues on Clear Channel’s seven San Diego stations: KOGO, KLSD, Channel 933, Star 94.1, 101.5KGB, US 95.7, and 105.3.
The Clear Channel studios experienced a power outage during the morning hours. Most stations stayed on the air with dead silence.

San Diego 1700 has been wall to wall with media partners at KUSI-TV. Mark Larson writes that the coverage was the “same with our sister stations XX Sportsradio 1090 and 105.7″ and will continue today. Mark adds: “We’re at the Manchester Grand Hyatt this morning broadcasting from the breakfast for hundreds of displaced families who are staying here in the hotel.” California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is expected to stop by.

KyXy did yeoman’s work with Sonny West, Kevin Dean, John Q. Lawrence and Susan DeVincent. Sister station Radio Sophie covered the fires as well.

Cliff and Company kept the home informed at KSON. FM 94/9 and KiFM were mixing music and information.

KPRi’s Madison and the station crew were behind the mic during the day.

Mt. Miguel, is the broadcast site for KLQV, KPBS FM and TV, KNSD-TV 39/HD40, KUSI, and KSWB-TV. As the Harris fire marched over the hill, note that the tower lights stay on — while KPBS-FM and TV were off the air. FM 94/9 donated their frequency to the public radio station — after all it is about the fires this week. Most of the stations have returned to the air. DirecTV viewers are getting KCET from Los Angeles until KPBS-TV is up and running.

Local alternative rock radio station 91X has moved their listener Halloween party and concert with hometown favorite Louis XIV to the San Diego House of Blues. Proceeds from ticket sales for the concert will be donated to the San Diego Foundation for Fire Relief Efforts.

The concert, scheduled for Tuesday, October 30, was originally to be at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. However, due to the recent wildfires and the Fairground’s service to evacuees, the event required a change in venue.

The San Diego House of Blues stepped in to host the concert in their main music hall, and waived facility fees allowing tickets sales to go to the firefighters.

Tickets for the concert cost $9.10 each. Admission for the all ages concert will be sold day of show only from the House of Blues Box Office at 1055 Fifth Ave starting at 10:00 A.M.

“This past week has been a challenge for everyone in San Diego, and a rock concert was the last thing on most people’s minds,” said 91X Program Director Phil Manning. “However, when House of Blues gave an opportunity to turn it into a fund raiser for the men and women fighting the fires, we couldn’t pass it up.”

“I think after all the recent stress we have endured as a city, now the concert might be a great way for people to smile and have fun again. Plus, they will be helping the firefighters which gives it a wonderful feeling.” said Manning.

91X is operated by Finest City Broadcasting, a privately held San Diego-based company founded in 2005. FCB also operates Z90.3 (XHTZ-FM) and Magic 92.5 (XHRM-FM).

Yesterday’s story that featured KOGO’s Lee Hacksaw Hamilton identified Jim Stone’s house being burnt. Reader Roger Otterson found the video that has Jim’s house safe and sound. View it at [21] NBC San Diego.

Hacksaw’s story will be in next week’s Time, and can be viewed [22] here.

With the week’s events nearly behind the county of San Diego, one of the best reports came from the advantage of Cal Walker. As he flew his plane over the county and reported on the tragic events of the fire, Cal had time to take photos.

Click on the picture for a larger viewing.

The fire advances over the county as the sun rises.

The wall of smoke is nearly the height as Cal’s plane.

US 95.7 names Delana Bennett to middays at the station. She’ll be bringing a boatload of magic to the time slot. Delana is a ten-year veteran of the airwaves in the San Diego market. She has been recently heard on the Jeff and Jer Showgram.

Delana fills the shoes that Cindy Spicer left. Cindy left the station and moved to Costa Rica with her husband. Delana polishes her boots and hangs her hat on Monday.

San Diego 1700’s Mark Larson reunites with his ol’ KFMB-days partner, Ted Leitner starting Monday. Ted is back on Larson on his morning show with sports-and-all-else-Ted reports at 8:15 a.m. Also: the afternoon show of Dennis Miller is expanding to three hours starting at 1 p.m., weekdays.

Clear Channel brass have yet to send out a press release, however several missteps have shown the line-up. Xtra Sports 1360 is expected to name Dave Palet and Jeff Dotseth as the morning drive. Then at 10 a.m., The Sports Page hosted by Josh Rosenberg hits the air for two hours. Josh will have the San Diego Union-Tribune’s Nick Canepa and Tim Sullivan join him.

At noon, Chris Ello takes the mic and talks all thing sports on the station. The cornerstone is Lee Hacksaw Hamilton at 3 p.m. It’ll be the Best 15 Minutes In Radio followed by the legendary show that Hacksaw does. After 7 p.m., the station should fill in the overnight hours with syndicated talk.

Earlier this week, a station memo was ‘accidentally’ sent to the Clear Channel staff in San Diego indicating the station would premiere next weekend. While the message was supposed to be recalled, copies hit the email system outside of the building. The actual date is slated for Thursday, Nov. 1.

The current programming for KLSD-AM 1360 is expected to find a home on Rock 105.3’s HDRadio broadcast on the HD3 multicast station.

Air America’s afternoon host Randi Rhodes was the subject of internet hyperboil this week. She was first tied to a potential hate crime when walking her dog. As the reports bubbled on the optic connections coast to coast, Jon Elliott reported that Randi’s mishap could have been a right-wing hate crime. The next day, Jon, who is based at KLSD set the record straight. Her tumble happened while walking her dog and there were no police blotters filled out. Randi missed a few days from her nationally syndicated show.

Sophie@103.7 is proud to support the Tenth Annual American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on Sunday, in Balboa Park.

Sophie@103.7 personality Cristy will broadcast live from 6am-8am. Subject matters will include interviews with event organizers, researchers, doctors, walk team captains/members as well as event participants.

The 2007 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of San Diego will be held on Sunday in Balboa Park. Registration is at 7:00am, official start is at 8:30am. For more information and to request a team leader kit, volunteer at the event, or to learn how to become a strides pace setter, visit RadioSophie.com.

Sign On San Diego did a soft launch of SignOn Radio in October.

The lineup for today:

8:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Dave Mason’s AM
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. - Charlie & Harrigan
11:00 - 1:00 p.m. - Clark & Copper
1:00 - 1:30 p.m. - Maynard’s Garage: Mark Maynard
1:30 - 2:00 p.m. - Shelf Life: Arthur Salm
2:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Fill in the Blank with George Varga
3:30 - 5:30 p.m. - Charlie & Harrigan
5:30 - 7:30 p.m. - Clark & Copper

The station manager is Dave Mason, the former host of Kool 99.3, and the KOGO morning show. Radio voices include: Charlie & Harrigan are Jack Woods and Paul Menard, famous for their pairing in San Diego radio history. Clark Anthony and Ken Copper take to the air at 11 a.m. Also in the works is Happy Hare Martin.

Ron James writes at the web site: “No other radio station, public or otherwise, can come close to the kind of local coverage SignOn Radio can provide. Our studios are located just a few yards from the newsroom of The San Diego Union-Tribune. What other station can boast a half-dozen veteran radio personalities and nearly three hundred seasoned journalists?

“The combination of entertainment, information and news is unparalleled in the radio industry. Our goal is to inform and entertain - bringing you not only the news makers but the keen analysis of the journalists who cover them. And when we’re not talking, we’re playing the best from San Diego musicians.

Visit [23] SignOnSanDiego.com/SignOnRadio for more information.

November Notes

101.5 KGB’s Dave, Shelly and Chainsaw present, “Who Wants Pi?” The annual Best Of CD is on sale at retailers across the county and will set you back $12.99

All proceeds from the sale of this CD go to the DSC Fund that helps San Diegans in need all year long.

“Who Wants Pi?” is available on line at [24] 101.5 KGB. Order a copy from the web site in case the store is out.

The purchase will also receive a limited edition DSC graphic T-shirt and a coupon for a pizza.

Radio is a Zoo: AM 540 has been many formats over the years, from all news, all traffic, jazz, classical, adult standard.

Tomorrow, the station from Baja California changes. again. Operated by Mount Wilson Broadcasting, owner Saul Levine will introduce legendary talk show host Michael Jackson to the San Diego market. You won’t be disappointed either.

A recipient of seven Television Emmys (and 13 nominations), Jackson has also been awarded six Golden Mikes, also known as Radio’s Oscar, Michael received two in January 2006 for outstanding achievement in radio broadcasting.

“My show meets and reflects the changing world of Los Angeles and California. Listeners will be meeting people from all walks of life: stars, artists, politicians, world leaders, educators, We’ll be speaking about everything and anything with everyone, and each day giving this weary and exciting world of ours a kick in its axis. We’ll be asking the tough and frequently ignored questions and together learning. My job is to entertain, enlighten and inform.”

Michael’s various honors include membership in the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, (the MBE), presented by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, along with being presented with the French Legion of Merit bestowed by President Mitterand. He has his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and an honorary Doctorate of Laws from Western School of Law.

The proposed line-up:
6 a.m. - Wall Street Journal Morning Edition
7 a.m. - Neal Boortz
9 a.m. - Michael Jackson
11 a.m. - Dr. Drew Pinsky
1 p.m. - Dr. Joy Browne
3 p.m. - Lars Larson
5 p.m. - Michael Jackson
7 p.m. - Larry King Live
8 p.m. - The Great American Songbook

Update: Saul Levine, President of the family owned and operated Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters, announced that beginning tomorrow, KGIL 1260 “News/Talk” will be simulcast on the company’s San Diego-based 540 AM.

“The combined signal strength enables us to reach over 15 million listeners across Southern California,” explains Levine. “We’re pleased to provide this full-service radio station featuring news, traffic, advice and diverse, balanced perspectives to the entire Southland.”

Jennifer writes: “Yep, I’ve moved.

After spending an amazing two years with Chris and Ruggy, the time came to make a change. With their blessings and support, I have accepted a job at a radio station that I have fallen in love with: Sophie.

While I will miss Chris and Rugs tremendously, I am crazy-excited about this opportunity to be a part of a station that cares so much about the same music I do. Check me out at my new home starting in December: 103.7 FM and www.radiosophie.com.

Love you, and thanks for your support of Cantore in the Morning. ..

San Diego I want to talk to you!. Xtra Sports 1360 hits the airwaves at 3 p.m. today (November 12) with the legendary Lee Hacksaw Hamilton returning the San Diego airwaves.

His show will kick off Xtra Sports 1360 in what has been the longest known station change in recent memory. As the rumbles started in August with the registration of the domain, the first day of broadcast was put off for various reasons. The format officially changes today.

Expect the entire Xtra Sports lineup with Lee today as he will re-introduce the legendary Xtra Sports moniker to the market. Starting Tuesday morning the entire lineup will be on hand starting at 6 a.m. The web site is [25] XtraSports1360.com. The station is running Fox Sports syndicated programming.

Jack Vincent, known for his days at KCBQ celebrated his 90th birthday last weekend. Shotgun Tom Kelly was the host at the time honored tradition of his Saturday night pool party.

Shotgun Tom with Neil Ross.

Former KPRI and KGTV-TV Gary Kelley, KCBQ, KOGO, KGB and now 101.1 KEARTH Shotgun Tom, Rich Brother Robbin and KyXy Gene Knight. They holding up a picture of when they were at KCBQ in San Diego. (Click on the photos for a larger image.)

Linda and Shotgun with birthday boy Jack. Kneeling with the cake is Melanie, Shotgun’s daughter.

Jack was the overnight voice at KCBQ from 1956 through 1968. He did his show from the KCBQ transmitter site in Santee, and also did the duty as the station engineer.

After more than a decade of service, KPBS News Director, Michael Marcotte, is leaving the San Diego public broadcasting organization in early November.

Marcotte was hired as news director in 1995 and implemented KPBS’ “beat system” for in-depth specialty reporting. He helped to spread the station’s journalistic effort from KPBS Radio to KPBS TV and later to the website KPBS.org. He also hosted the Friday edition of “Full Focus” on KPBS TV. Marcotte is credited with growing the news department at KPBS into the largest radio news staff in San Diego.

“We’ve built a strong team at KPBS,” said Marcotte. “I feel great about how far we’ve come. KPBS deserves credit for innovation on many fronts. I’m thankful for 12 years of learning and doing exciting work in San Diego. And I leave feeling confident about the station’s future.”

December Delights

The rock and roll fun for Cindy Pace ended last Friday as the mid-day talent at 101.5 KGB made an exit at the classic rocker.

Cindy, a long time veteran of the San Diego airwaves was also heard on 103.7 Planet FM. Her mid-day style brought an up beat energy to the station and always made the radio and phones “fun”.

Word on other dismissals are being verified with Clear Channel in San Diego.

Update: Jim Richards is on the classic rocker after the DSC signs off. He is on the air until 1 p.m. Then afternoon man Ditch takes the controls for six hours until 7 p.m.

The new sports station is entering its second month, and the sports day at Xtra Sports 1360 kicks off with Dave Palet and Jeff Dothseth. They have been teamed up at four stations: 760 KFMB, XESPN-AM 800, Free FM, and 1360 KLSD. They are not afraid to go the distance in their comments — and even poke fun at themselves.

As the web site for the station proclaims, “Not only do they have experience in the business, but gotten it all in San Diego. These two guys are friends as well as colleagues, so they enjoy working together and interacting with listeners. Added into the mix is their own irreverent “third wheel,” Mike Costa.”

US 95.7’s Tony and Kris received a phone call from country artist Garth Brooks last week. The country star is performing five concerts in the LA area with all proceeds benefiting the five victims from San Diego to Malibu. Hear the San Diego exclusive at [8] US 95.7’s web site. The concert sold out in minutes.