|
|
Indiana RadioWatch
Serving Hoosier Broadcasters Since 1998
14 February 2022
|
Good Evening:
Let's start this issue with an advertorial.
The pandemic has created many changes and disruptions. We have been told that SAFE AT HOME is one of the best ways to ensure social distancing, even as the state tries to reopen. Yet with fewer people in their cars, radio listening has INCREASED in many markets.
Between on-air ratings and online streaming metrics, the proof is undeniable: people are yearning for local information, delivered by people they know, like and trust. Another lesson from safe distancing: whether radio or TV, consumers empathize with anchors, reporters and entertainers working from locations other than their studios.
That is where VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER™ can help. Current economic interruptions make it difficult for local stations to provide the kind of quality information and talent that consumers and advertisers' demand. And now, your biggest competition is most likely their cell phone!
Why does my station even need local news?
Research shows that the not-so-secret ingredient to radio success is content that is 'local, local, local'. However, economic pressures have forced many stations to rely on only a national news network, eliminate a news presence all together ceding local information to other technologies. Whether you have a Music Station focusing primarily on drive-time updates, or a News/Talk format demanding round-the-clock updates, relevant local information is a critical key to keeping your audience. Markets with electronic ratings measurement have found that their news and information segments are among the highest-rated minutes of the hour. This, in turn, adds value to news sponsorships.
Why should I outsource my station's news?
For too many radio operations, recent events have made it more challenging to justify the cost of even one full-time news staffer. But when you share the cost with other stations, everybody has better quality at far less expense. Each VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER™ anchor has years of industry experience and your anchor (or anchors if you like) will be exclusive to your stations. Plus, they sound like they are part of your staff.
How can you know what's going on in my market?
Of course, VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER™ can do the normal beat calls and web site checks. We also get on relevant email and fax distribution lists for your station. In a Corona world, we've seen that technology makes it simple for virtually every staffer to work from outside the building. In many situations, traffic and billing is handled somewhere else, and now you can have a larger sounding newsroom and not worry about all the issues that go along with a local hire.
Want to learn more?
Go to virtualnewscenter.com or call CEO Joel Dearing at 877-470-6397 to learn how VIRTUAL NEWS CENTER™ can help you.
Let's begin today's column with an obituary that touches broadcasters across Indiana. Jeremy Ruck, PE, died in mid-December from COVID-19. Mr. Ruck performed both engineering and consulting work for many Indiana radio and TV stations. He was only 50 years old. As someone mentioned to me, Mr. Ruck was the de facto successor to RF consulting engineer Don Markley, PE, who passed away in 2009. Here's the complete obituary.
Northeast
On Friday, Samantha Myers co-hosted her last early morning newscast and anchored her last Noon newscast on Gray Television's ABC affiliate/WPTA-TV (Channel 21, Fort Wayne). Ms. Myers joined WPTA in 2020, after being a reporter at FOX affiliate WXIN-TV (Channel 59, Indianapolis) and CBS affiliate WTTV-TV (Channel 4, Bloomington)/WTTK-TV (Channel 29, Kokomo). Ms. Myers announced on Twitter that she will be leaving the TV news business. Starting this morning, Tony Benton, Jr. moves from anchoring 'ABC21's' weekend morning newscasts to co-anchor of ABC21 Morning News, alongside Kayla Stewart and meteorologist Nick Marusiak. Also, weekend meteorologist Matthew Bullock exits and will become the weekend meteorologist at Gray sister station WMBF-TV in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Speaking of WPTA, they will soon roll out a new local newscast option. Debuting on Monday February 21, the nightly 7:00pm half hour-long local newscast on ABC21 will be anchored by Tom Powell, Brien McElhatten, along with Chief Meteorologist Matt Leach. Mr. Powell moves over to ABC21 from nearly six years as weekday evening co-anchor on Fort Wayne's NBC (Channel 21.2) alongside Linda Jackson.
As for Fort Wayne's NBC, starting today, morning anchor Julian Teekaram moves to evenings and joins Linda Jackson on the evening and late-night weekday local newscasts. Ms. Teekaram joined 'Fort Wayne's NBC News Today' in 2018 and was a reporter for the stations before that.
Nexstar CBS affiliate/WANE-TV (Channel 15, Fort Wayne) welcomes Charles Benberry as weekend reporter. The University of Indianapolis alum last worked in Indianapolis for Emmis Communications, and for sister Nexstar FOX affiliate WXIN-TV (Channel 59, Indianapolis).
Also, at WANE-TV, they promoted one, and will say goodbye to two. Weekday morning reporter Breann Boswell earns a promotion to Monday through Wednesday afternoon reporter (for their 5pm and 6pm local newscasts), along with anchoring First News Weekend. Next up, producer Alivia Crist exits and will join Nexstar's FOX affiliate WXIN-TV (Channel 59, Indianapolis) as their 6:00am morning show producer. Finally, reporter Britt Salay will exit WANE-TV on February 25.
Elijah Collins joins as a sports anchor and reporter for Heartland Media's FOX affiliate/WFFT-TV (Channel 55, Fort Wayne). Mr. Collins last worked as a reporter for KFBB-TV in Great Falls, Montana. Finally, WFFT rolls out a new website design.
Northwest
Purdue University's WBAA(AM)/W290CM (920am, West Lafayette; 105.9fm, Lafayette) and WBAA-FM (101.3fm; West Lafayette) Content Director Dr. Greg Kostraba exits and joins KBAQ (K-BACH) in Phoenix, Arizona as a classical music announcer. Dr. Kostraba worked at the WBAA radio stations for 18 years.
Kankakee Valley Broadcasting restructures their ownership with a $149,270 deal for George and Della Mammarella to buy out their partners. Kankakee Valley Broadcasting owns News/WKVI and AC/WKVI-FM (1520am, 99.3fm, both Knox), and Classic Hits/WYMR (98.3fm, Culver).
Eastcentral
Where Are They Now? Former WQLK (96.1fm) PD Phil O'Reilly now programs and does mornings at KYCK in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Central
Circle City Broadcasting's CW affiliate/WISH-TV (Channel 8, Indianapolis) weekend evening meteorologist David James retired after last night's newscast, capping a 40+ year career. In 1980, Mr. James started at WRTV (Channel 6, Indianapolis).
FOX affiliate WXIN-TV (Channel 59, Indianapolis) and CBS affiliate WTTV-TV (Channel 4, Bloomington)/WTTK-TV (Channel 29, Kokomo) welcomes dayside Executive Producer Janice O'Shea. Ms. O'Shea last worked for Allen Media Broadcasting's CBS affiliate/WLFI-TV (Channel 18, Lafayette) as Executive Producer and Assignment Manager.
Emmis' Country/WLHK (97.1fm, Shelbyville) welcomes Joey Tack to mornings, alongside Mindy Winkler ('Joey and Mindy'). Mr. Tack last programmed and did middays at KNCI in Sacramento, California, and he is also '97.1 Hank FM' Assistant Program Director.
Matthew Fultz joins TEGNA's NBC affiliate/WTHR-TV (Channel 13, Indianapolis) as a weekend morning anchor and reporter. Mr. Fultz just finished working as a reporter for 3 years at WTVR-TV in Richmond, Virginia.
Where Are They Now? Former WISH-TV Managing Editor Loni Blandford will soon move within Nexstar. She's currently the News Director for WDTN-TV in Dayton, Ohio, and will move into a senior corporate recruiter role for parent Nexstar Media Group.
Southeast
Larry Hembree's Daisy Holdings, Inc. will sell Classic Country/WKLO (96.9fm, Hardinsburg) to Kelly Trask’s Diamond Shores Broadcasting for $337,000. Diamond Shores has operated WKLO under a time brokerage agreement since the beginning of 2021. Hembree will credit $50,000 in paid fees to Diamond Shores.
Southcentral
Dave Keister's Mid-America Radio Group at one time owned 32 stations across four states, but his first station was in Martinsville. Now, Martinsville will name a portion of a new road after the late station owner, who died in April 2020. West Southview Drive from Indiana 39 to Burton Lane will be named Keister Way. Mr. Keister named WCBK after his father Clemence Bruce Keister, and the WCBK studios are at Burton Lane.
Southwest
Cause 4 Paws Inc. moves their Oldies/WBED-LP (99.3fm, Bedford) to 90.1fm which is a new class A signal. This is one of the new stations granted by the FCC after their recent non-commercial filing period. Since WBED became a Class A, they had to either surrender or divest the LPFM, and they surrendered it to the FCC. WBED features Mike Shannon and his wife Deb in mornings. Here's the WBED website.
For nearly 14 years, Steve Burger served as VP/Radio, leading Tri State Public Media NPR affiliate WNIN-FM (88.3fm, Evansville). Mr. Burger retired at the end of 2021, but remains an advisor to their ¿Qué Pasa, Midwest? bilingual content initiative. Before joining WNIN, Mr. Burger was Director of New Media for Evansville's NBC affiliate WFIE-TV (Channel 14).
In 2011, Gene Kuntz began leading the Jasper on the Air radio stations: Regional Mexican/WITZ(AM) (990am, Jasper) and translator W256DA (99.1fm, Jasper), AC/WITZ-FM (104.7fm, Jasper), and Country/WQKZ (98.5fm, Ferdinand). Later this year, he will step down from that role. Mr. Kuntz joined WITZ in early 1977, doing nights.
Gunnar Consol joins as weekend meteorologist for Allen Media's CBS and FOX affiliates/WEVV-TV (Channel 44, Evansville). Mr. Consol last worked in Zanesville, Ohio as a weekend meteorologist for WHIZ-TV. Mr. Consol graduated last year from Plymouth State University.
Employment Opportunities
----------
Legendary Midwest News/Talk station, WOWO 1190 AM & 107-5 FM is searching for its next great News Director.
Preferred candidates should have a strong understanding of local news reporting, a background in news programming and experience as a news anchor; the capability of great news writing, presentation, and on-air execution; an ability to work well with others and lead a news team with ethics and integrity, while holding others accountable as we strive to bring local news issues, current events, and politics to the WOWO Land. Digital integration is a must!
WOWO is a top-rated station in Fort Wayne with a storied heritage as one of America’s last bastions of independent ownership. You will have all the tools you need to achieve anticipated growth.
The candidate we chose will be joining the Fort Wayne Morning News Team as News Anchor from 5am-9am, so you will need the ability to work those hours. We welcome all applicants, regardless of experience but WOWO is a Legacy Radio station, previous Marconi Winner and 2021 Winner of The IBA Spectrum Award for Station Of The Year, so our standards are high.
If you feel you have the talent and can prove it to us, we want to hear from you. Confidentiality assured. E-mail resume and all relevant materials to ragz@federatedmedia.com
Federated Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
----------
Radio Forecast Network, a nationwide network that provides weather forecasts for stations in the United States, Canada and the British Virgin Islands is currently looking for announcers to read forecasts and sponsor information. Most lists are between 11 and 18 stations and will fit your availability. You will need a computer, microphone, and audio editing software. Working for RFN, you earn trade dollars to buy the things you need personally, or for business purposes if you own a business. Choose from the member lists and marketplace ads found in the trade exchanges we deal with. This list of businesses (some of which may be in your area) who are members, are paid in trade exchange dollars through organized barter exchanges. It's a great way to stay connected with the radio industry, and to earn some extra money in your free time. For more information, click this link.
----------
Kensington Digital Media is seeking an experienced professional to join our team as a News and Content Director.
Our stations include 107.3 WRSW, Willie 103.5, News Now Warsaw 1480-AM & 99.7 FM (all in Indiana), and Hippie Radio 94.5 and 100.7 WHIN 1010 AM (in Tennessee); in addition to a highly visited news website. The position is based in Warsaw, IN.
Duties include gathering and preparing daily news, anchoring live newscasts on air, producing locally based public affairs programming and other news related vignettes throughout the day. Applicants should also be interested in attending local news worthy events. A strong understanding of social media and online presence is also requested.
Equal Opportunity Employer. Send resume, writing samples and audio mp3 of newscasts/news reporting (if available) to Operations Manager Kris Lake at klake@kensington.media.
----------
WKKG Indiana Country has an outstanding opening in our advertising sales department. This opportunity provides excellent income for the right person. The 'right person' will possess incredible sales and marketing skill-sets, have the ability to help clients achieve their business goals and had previous outside sales experience. If you can sell, we can teach you the power of local radio. This position offers an excellent compensation package including salary, plus commission, health and life insurance benefits and 401(k).
Send your resume and cover letter to WKKG Radio; Attention General Manager; P.O. Box 1789; Columbus, IN 47202.
White River Broadcasting is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
----------
A Full-time position for Office Manager for Henson Media, is available in Henderson, Kentucky. Henson Media owns and operates radio stations, WSON-AM, and WREF-FM.
Primary duties to include:
• Collaborate with General Manager on promotions and help sales team
• Process advertising orders and subsequent billing, including co-op billing
• Handle Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable
• Process all aspects of Payroll and associated Tax Payments
• Help create and comply with budgets
• Generate P & L’s and other Budget Reports
• File Quarterly and Annual Rights and Royalties Reports and payments
• Process and Upload Reports to FCC website, as required by the FCC
• Maintain accurate records
• Organize and type Community Announcements and Obituaries
• Update station website
• Purchase Office Supplies
• Possible on-air with voicing production
• General Secretarial duties, including answering phone, greeting visitors, and filing
Qualified candidate must be upbeat and capable of working in a team-oriented environment. Candidate must also be organized, detail oriented, self-motivated, and able to multi-task. Knowledge of digital media is helpful. Radio experience as well as experience with Marketron DeltaFlex, and QuickBooks are a plus. Please send resume and salary requirements to darlene@wsonradio.com and to edhenson1@bellsouth.net. Henson Media of Henderson County, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
----------
If you enjoy making someone’s day and spreading positive vibes first thing in the morning, this position has your name on it! Hot AC Z92.5 in Kokomo, IN has an immediate opening for a morning show co-host and Director of Digital Content for the cluster. You’ll become part of 'Z-Breakfast' on one of the top stations in the market. Each morning you’ll be responsible for producing compelling and engaging content for both on-air and online platforms. You’ll share positivity with our listeners each day and just have fun! We take our mission of 'Turn Up The Feel Good' very seriously. Life’s too short not to laugh and just feel awesome! In addition to being part of a dynamic morning duo, you’ll also take lead on our digital platforms for all three stations in the cluster, which includes an Active Rock and Sports station. Skills? Time behind the microphone preferably as part of an on-air team, production, creative writing, website maintenance, creating social media content (beyond just posting or reposting), blogging, podcasting, and working with graphics. We’re looking for someone to lead us into the future. If this gets you excited, please email MP3 samples (no cloud links please) of on-air work along with any podcasting or production audio. Included in your package should be a cover letter and samples of social media engagement that you’ve custom generated. Send material to our Operations Manager, Stevie Riggs: stevie@rock985.com. Hoosier AM/FM is an EOE.
----------
WITZ FM, WQKZ FM and WITZ AM 990 & 99.1 FM Radio Juan in Jasper, Indiana has an opening for a full-time account executive. You will be taking over an established client list. Sales and marketing will be the main focus of this position but if you have other related broadcast experience, it would be helpful. Copy writing and production skills are important. You must be a motivated self-starter and understand the importance of building and maintaining client relationships. Social media and website sales will also be part of this position. We will train the right person. Our stations are members of the Indiana Broadcasters Association with full access to Local Broadcast Sales P1 Training. If you’re looking for a great opportunity with an award winning radio station that’s been a major part of the local community since 1948 then send your resume to Gene Kuntz, P.O. Box 167, Jasper, IN 47546 or email gkuntz@witzamfm.com. Jasper On The Air is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
----------
WNAP, The Buzzard, seeks the right person or people for our stations as we develop Underwriting Sales. Our format is a fun Oldies presentation with sarcasm and tongue in cheek delivery. Our stations include: 56-year-old 990 WNAP Muncie and translator 101.5 W268BJ; WNAP-FM 88.1 Morristown, Indiana; 91.7 W219DO Edinburgh, Indiana, and WNPP Cole Indiana.
This is an outside position. Cities to be served include Muncie, Indianapolis, Greenfield, Shelbyville, Rushville, Anderson, Noblesville, and many others. If you have a history in customer service and want to help us grow, contact Martin Hensley at hensleym31@aol.com. New Beginnings Movement, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
----------
A locally owned, multi-station cluster in a historic community is seeking a News/Sports Director interested in informing listeners in multiple counties who depend on the stations to be their primary news source. Additionally, the candidate will have a passion to do high school sports play-by-play. You'll even work with the Miami (OH) Sports Network providing scoreboard updates on G101-3.
If you are looking for a community to call home, send your materials demonstrating your talent in news writing and delivery as well as your play-by-play skills to rickduncan@g1013.com
Whitewater Broadcasting is an EOE and encourages the hiring of females and minorities.
----------
Are you a salesperson with a positive attitude who hates to lose? Our Kokomo and Marion radio groups both have immediate openings for our next multi-media sales superstars! We're looking for team players who are a whiz with technology, and previous sales experience, a knack for developing new business and creativity are all a plus. If a competitive salary plus commission, benefits, and extras get your attention, contact us today! Hoosier AM/FM, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace. Please send resume to Joel Pyle at jpyle@star1069fm.com
----------
Locally owned and operated WGCL (98.7 and AM 1370) and Rock 96-1 The Quarry are looking for both full-time and part-time account executives to help develop commercial, non-traditional, and digital revenue. Successful candidates:
• Have had success in selling their particular industry
• Possess a solid work ethic and are self-motivated
• Understand what it takes to develop and nurture mutually beneficial business relationships
In this non-corporate, Bloomington-based position, you'll help local businesses grow through the power of advertising on WGCL, Rock 96-1 The Quarry, and WTTS (92.3). You'll also have the opportunity to sell a vast array of digital products through our new ST Digital arm. Whether you're looking for a full-time career or a part-time opportunity, we will craft and customize the right scenario for the right candidate.
Send an introductory email along with your resume to dmyers@wgclradio.com. Sarkes Tarzian, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
----------
That's all for this issue. Thank you for your continued support.
=============== Indiana RadioWatch ===============
Indiana RadioWatch is (c) 2022, Blaine E. Thompson
Indiana RadioWatch may not be reproduced, transmitted, or distributed in any way, shape, or form without the permission of the copyright holder (Thompson, above)
Indiana RadioWatch subscriptions are free. To subscribe, send an e-mail to irw@well.com and we'll add you. After publication, we archive Indiana RadioWatch on the Indiana Radio Archive at indianaradio.net. Please e-mail us your news stories and employment opportunities.
=============== Indiana RadioWatch ===============
|
|
|
|
|
