Indiana RadioWatch: March 3, 2011

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Northeast

After just over two years, Federated Media's N-T/WOWO (1190am, Fort Wayne) and Sports/WKJG (1380am, Fort Wayne) OM Dan Mandis exits next week for Denver, Colorado, where he will program to Clear Channel's KHOW and KKZN. Mr. Mandis returns to Colorado, where he was the Director of AM Programming and Operations for Citadel Broadcasting in Colorado Springs, before moving to WOWO.

Kingdom of God, Inc. receives two LPTV CP's for Channels 34 and 39, both licensed to Fort Wayne.

Northwest

Mark Allen exits Artistic Media Partners/Lafayette for Lexington, Kentucky. There, Mr. Allen now programs and handle afternoons at WLXX.

From the TV screen: NYC-based Landover 2 LLC has its LPTV applications dismissed for Channels 18 and 38 in Delphi. Waldorf, Maryland-based Alma Corp. receives four LPTV CP's for Channels 30, 33, 39, and 49, all licensed to Wolcott. Sunrise, Florida-based DTV America II, LLC receives five LPTV CP's for Channels 16, 22, 23, 31, and 35, all licensed to Lafayette.

Eastcentral

Hoosier AM/FM's Oldies-Sports WBAT (1400am, Marion) adds the Dial Global syndicated program "Your Next Job."

Hoosier AM/FM News Director Khristopher Lee will exit soon, after about five years with the group. Please see the employment ad for this job in our "Employment Opportunities" section below.

From our "Radio with Pictures" department: Sunrise, Florida-based DTV America II, LLC receives a LPTV CP for Channel 22, licensed to Marion.

Central

An important correction to our Tom Carnegie story: It was WOWO/Fort Wayne PD Eldon Campbell that gave Carl Kenagy his on air name of Tom Carnegie. After their time at WOWO, Mr. Campbell and Mr. Carnegie crossed paths again at Indianapolis' WFBM radio and TV. Mr. Campbell was GM and Mr. Carnegie was Sports Director.

Speaking of Tom Carnegie, we did not know about the Tom Carnegie bobblehead doll, which is available at http://www.tomcarnegie.com/. A portion of the sales goes to Mr. Carnegie's family.

On Tuesday 22 February, Emmis added N-T WIBC (93.1fm, Indianapolis) News Director Stacy Thorne Conrad. Ms. Conrad had a 14 year career at LIN Television CBS affiliate WISH-TV (Channel 8, Indianapolis), where she ended as Assistant News Director, followed by a year in the Advertising/PR industry, before her move to Emmis' Monument Circle studios.

Also at Emmis, they shift from Traffic.com to Metro Traffic. Also at Emmis, they shift from Traffic.com to Metro Traffic. However, Emmis is using their air personalities for traffic reports.

After nearly fifteen years as MD and in middays, Entercom's Hot AC/WZPL (99.5fm, Greenfield) DJ Dave Decker exits. Also, "Hunter" leaves his afternoon airshift to concentrate on imaging, promotions, social media, and production. Finally, Ryan Seacrest adds an hour (now 10:00am until 2:00PM), and weekender Nikki temporarily takes Hunter's afternoon shift.

An Indianapolis TV veteran passes away. Ray Bredemann passed away Monday 14 February at age 60. Mr. Bredemann worked for McGraw-Hill Broadcasting's ABC affiliate WRTV (Channel 6, Indianapolis) for over 30 years (for the last 11 years, as the nighttime Assignment Editor). He was also a producer at one point.

Westcentral

Emmis' Country/WTHI-FM (99.9fm, Terre Haute) replaces the syndicated "Retro Country" with a locally hosted C&W show, hosted by Rick Rhodes. Mr. Rhodes doubles as an overnight producer for WTHI-TV, and worked at WACF-FM when they aired a country format.

A tip of the IRW cap to Emmis' Country/WTHI-FM (99.9fm, Terre Haute) PD Barry Kent, for his induction into the Country DJ Hall of fame. Mr. Kent has been in the radio business for 43 years; the last 28 at WTHI.

We are starting to see signs of life from the former Mike Rice/Contemporary Media stations. The FCC grants a CP for 640am, Terre Haute to Southfield, Michigan-based Birach Broadcasting Corp. The CP calls for 250 watts, non-directional, from the former then-WBOW 640AM site on US-41 in Terre Haute. The FCC hasn't decided the fate of Mr. Rice's other former stations: 1230AM and 107.5FM.

Southeast

Wagon Wheel Broadcasting GM Michael Shields exits for the GM spot at Salem's KDOW and KFAX in San Francisco, California.

Southcentral

A former Paoli station owner passes away. Virginia King died on Wednesday 16 February at the age of 90. Along with her husband, Mrs. King started and owned WVAK (in 1963) and WVAK-FM (in 1972) (today's WSEZ(AM) and WUME-FM, which Blair Trask now owns).

The Cromwell Group/Tell City stations move to new broadcast studios in the German American Bank on Main Street in Tell City.

Southwest

Jacob Newkirk at The Evansville Courier and Press mentions that Raycom NBC affiliate WFIE-TV (Channel 14, Evansville) will add local newscasts in HD this summer. Once complete, WFIE will have a new HD news set and a new control room.

Radio Spotlight

This week, we sit down with Nigel.

Name: Nigel Laskowski
Job Title(s): On-air Personality
Station(s): WWVR (before that, in reverse order: KLBJ-FM, WNOU, WRZX, WGRL and WXIR)
Market: Terre Haute
Owner: Emmis Communications

Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?

The internet...and coffee.

If you had such a thing as a "typical day," please tell us about yours?

I'm commuting an hour to Terre Haute now so my day usually starts around 7am, on the road by 8 and in the office by 9. I like to get at least two to three blog posts up on my website http://www.nigelnow.com/ and my station's site http://www.1055theriver.com/ by Noon. I jot down everything I want to mention during my show and spend most of the time on the web looking for more stories and any audio that might compliment my show. I also record a daily podcast with our night guy Scott Steele before I go on the air at 2pm. I'm off the air at 6 and home with the wife around 7... beer in hand by 7:01.

On your show, who has been the most memorable guest?

I was in L.A. for the Grammys a few years ago and Slash sits down at my broadcast booth. The guy was my hero when I was younger and I was still a huge fan so when he sat down I was blown away. He had a red solo cup full of Jack Daniels and he was smoking a cigarette (which I'm sure the folks at the Staples Center weren't happy about, but what were they going to do? It was Slash). The best part was he was totally cool and down to earth... great interview.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love being in a creative environment. And since it's a rock format it allows me to be a little more edgy and aggressive on the air which can be a lot of fun. My boss Ed Zeppelin let's me get away with a lot... probably more than he should!

What has been your biggest career accomplishment?

I have a lot that I'm proud of. Great ratings books and being able to sustain a career in an industry I love are just a couple... but having the respect of my peers is something I'm completely proud of.

What has been your most memorable moment on the air?

I had made a comedy/tribute song for Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee. He was live in studio and we played it for him and he loved it... laughed his rear end off and fist bumped me and asked for a copy.

Who are your mentor(s)?

Most of my mentors I met while I was at X103 (WRZX)...As a young broadcaster who ate/slept/breathed radio, working in the 6161 Fall Creek studios was an amazing experience. Scott Jameson, Michael Young, Adam Ritz, Ace Cosby, Gunner and Jimmy 'Mad Dog' Matis were all mentors in some way for me.

Who were your early DJ or radio station influences? (Perhaps what lead you to "catch the radio bug."?)

Q95 (WFBQ) was a huge influence. Bob and Tom and Chick McGee were the reason I got into radio. Watching Howard Stern when he used to be on late night cable access in Indy was another huge reason for the radio bug.

Who's your favorite air personality that isn't working with you?

Sludge at KDKB in Phoenix...I used to listen to him when driving up to Chicago on Q101 and Rock 105 and remember thinking, "this guy is so good... how can I get to that level of talent??"

What book have you read that has taught you the most about the radio business?

Howard Stern's "Private Parts"

This week in Indiana Radio History

If there's something we need to add to the "calendar," please let us know. As this information strictly from our archives, and because we are human and errors do sometimes occur, please e-mail us if this information is not correct!

Sunday 27 February: In 1948, 100.3fm, then-Rushville signs on. The allocation moved since then (twice) and is now in the Cincinnati, Ohio market. In 2003, 91.1fm, Hope signed on, where it's still WYGS.

Tuesday 1 March: In 1993, 96.9fm, Bremen signs on. Today it's WHPZ. In 2000, Terre Haute's WJSH (1300am) flipped formats from Oldies to Sports. Also, sister WSDM (1130am) flipped from Gospel to Sports. In 2002, Fort Wayne's then-WWWD (96.3fm) flipped formats to Country to CHR, later (briefly) becoming WHTD. Finally, in 2003, South Bend's WUBU (106.3fm) flipped formats from Urban AC to Smooth Jazz.

Friday 4 March: In 1993, 92.3fm, Fort Wayne signs on, and it remains WFWI.

Saturday 5 March: In 1984, 1180am, Evansville signs on. Today it's WGAB.

Sunday 6 March: In 1997, 107.5fm, Evansville signs on, and it remains WABX.

Monday 7 March: In 1983, Bob and Tom debut on WFBQ/Indianapolis. In 2002, Ralph Miller, who helped start Crawfordsville's WCVL(AM) dies.

Tuesday 8 March: In 2005, Fort Wayne's WPTA-TV and WISE-TV merge operations.

Friday 11 March: In 1949 (also on a Friday), 1370am, Bloomington signs on. Today it's WGCL. In 2008, 88.3fm, Muncie signs on. Today, it's WKMV.

Saturday 12 March: In 1991, the tower for Frankfort's WSHW fell. In 2001, Fort Wayne's WEJE (96.3fm) flipped formats from Alternative to Country, becoming WWWD.

Employment Opportunities

Experienced Electronic equipment repair person needed: A company near the Castleton area in Indianapolis is looking for an experienced component level repair person with skills in soldering surface mount PCBs and analog troubleshooting. Approximately 2 hours per week or as needed. Experience in soldering & soldering on surface mount printed circuit boards as well as experience in component level analog troubleshooting needed. Willing to work short hours or on as needed basis. Please contact Bill Miller at Tieline Technology for additional information: miller at tieline dot com or 317.845.8000 (317.913.6915 fax). Tieline Technology is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Indianapolis' WRTV, an ABC Television Network affiliate seeking strong leader with demonstrated record of transforming delivery of news content. The ideal candidate will have experience motivating, teaching and mentoring a diverse newsroom. He or she must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Responsible for day-to-day operations of television newsroom and website content, budgeting and hiring of news staff and maintenance of journalistic and legal standards. Qualifications: A minimum five years experience managing newsrooms with demonstrated skills as a strong leader, teacher and motivator. The qualified candidate must have achieved a baccalaureate of higher degree in journalism or related field or equivalent related experience. Apply Online: http://www.mcgraw-hill.com/careers

WRTV, an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D. All employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of the application process which includes a pre-employment drug test.

Heritage Classic Rock Station 107.5 WABX is looking for its next Midday Star. This person must also serve as the Full-Time Promotions Director for CHR Giant Hot 96 WSTO and WABX. This requires an organized, dedicated Team-Player that loves radio and has respect for our listeners and our clients. Send your resume and aircheck to Rusty James at rjames at southcentralmedia dot com. South Central Media is an equal opportunity employer.

Northeast Indiana Public Radio in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is searching for a part-time "Morning Edition" host. Announcing, along with editing of local newscasts. Internet skills necessary, along with ability to multi-task. Must be familiar with pubradio style and format. On-air experience required. Familiarity with local market preferred. Familiarity with AudioVault a plus. Submit resume/cover letter/references, with demo if possible, to: manager at nipr dot fm. Northeast Indiana Public Radio, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

Are you a casualty of recent cutbacks in radio news operations? South Central Media's Evansville, Indiana market leader WIKY values talented news people and we want to talk to you if: you have at least two years news experience, you are a news junkie, you want to be part of a highly successful team that works hard and has high expectations, you have strong writing and on-air presence, and you understand and embrace that digital is an important part of our future. We are a nationally recognized news operation in a great quality of life market. Family owned and operated for over 65 years - But this is no Mom and Pop operation: We offer excellent benefits, a great place to live, work and raise a family. If you are interested in working at a place where talent can thrive and grow email us today. Resume and air check to: newsroomjobs at wiky dot com. South Central Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No phone calls please.

Backyard Broadcasting is looking for on air talent for its Muncie radio stations: 104.9 WERK, 93.5 and 96.7 MAX. It's Radio - you should KNOW the required "skills!" High school degree required, post secondary preferred. Benefits: Salary plus company pays portion of heath insurance, with dental available and 401k program also available. Need a multiple-hat wearing Radio person. You will need to have technical as well as communication skills that are effective both inside and outside our building. Classic Rock and Oldies format knowledge is a must. Tape and resume by mail or email. Steve Lindell, PD, Backyard Broadcasting, 800 East 29th Street, Muncie, IN 47302. 765.288.4403 ext 122 or steve.lindell at bybradio dot com. Backyard Broadcasting is an EOE.

Make babies in Fort Wayne! Come to Fort Wayne, Indiana, make a baby and program the legendary WOWO brand. Not necessarily in that order. Parent Magazine ranks Fort Wayne second in the Best Places to Raise a Baby. Forbes.com ranks Fort Wayne high among Best Places to Work and Live. Fort Wayne placed 13th in "Cost of Doing business" and 10th in "Cost of Living." Additionally, according to Consultant, Dave Gifford, Federated Media is one of the few companies in the radio business "worth working for" (Radio Ink magazine, May 9, 2005). Do you understand the role news, weather and traffic play in the building and maintenance of a news talk brand? Can you identify and recruit talented people from all walks of life regardless of their experience? In a crowded market place can you produce and nurture a morning show that gets noticed? Do you have examples of really good branding, marketing, imaging, promotion and community involvement projects that you conceived and executed? Can you take the results of research, develop a strategic plan and implement it? Do you understand the value and the role of profit and what it takes to produce a healthy bottom line? Do you understand the relationship between social marketing and ratings? Recent Program Directors have used WOWO as a launching pad to gigs in Phoenix and most recently Denver. Federated Media is a product driven company and is looking for the next Operations Manager of legendary News Talk 1190 WOWO and sister station 1380 ESPN radio and their digital brands. This is not a "fixer upper". According to Eastlan ratings with an A12+ 14 share and 100,000+ cume WOWO is tops in the market. WOWO also has the highest cume audience and double digit AQH share among Adults 25-54 in all of the prime dayparts. You will have all of the tools you need to achieve anticipated growth including a promotional budget and the consulting services of Greg Moceri. Preferred candidates will know how to host a talk show on short notice, anchor a newscast, know Next Gen and have a sense of humor. This is a great opportunity for an APD or News Director who wants a shot at the PD chair. Regardless of experience if you feel you have the talent and can prove it to us we want to hear from you. Federated Media is an equal opportunity employer. Please e-mail your resume and a brief note describing what Content is King means to you to: Mark DePrez, General Manager, WMEE/WOWO/ESPN 1380/K-105, makebabies at federatedmedia dot com. If you want to be really ambitious air check the station and send me your thoughts.

NO DISC JOCKEYS! This is not a 'foot in the door so I can weasel my way into a different position' opportunity. This is a 100% News position for a 4 station cluster in the Muncie-Marion, IN market. We are the news authority for 6 counties in Central and Eastern Indiana and deliver live & local news on all four of our stations in both Morning and Afternoon Drive. Your job is to cover local events both over the phone and in person, attend meetings like city council, county commissioners, school board, etc., monitor police and fire, and generally look for local and regional stories wherever they can be found. Additionally, you will anchor afternoon news with both live and pre-recorded newscasts and weather forecasts. This is not a 9-5 by any means but is a full-time, rewarding, and exciting position with an excellent benefits package and competitive pay. If you're a news-hound and are excited to find and write the stories, send your letter of interest, resume, and short mp3 of a newscast to raceindy at gmail dot com. Looking to move quickly - someone in Indiana or surrounding states is preferred as there is no relocation $$!

Hoosier AM/FM is EOE.

South-Central Indiana's heritage country station, WKKG, is looking for an experienced sales associate to join our professional marketing team. Ideal candidates will be motivated to create and build strong relationships with clients from a seasoned account list. Only self starters seeking to be the very best need apply. You'll receive a competitive compensation package including salary, plus commission, health and life insurance benefits and 401(k). Send resume and cover letter to Personnel, White River Broadcasting Company; P.O. Box 1789; Columbus, IN 47202-1789 or jobs at wkkg dot com. EOE.

The Flagship Stations for Purdue Sports in Lafayette, Indiana are looking for a General Sales Manager who exceeds in local direct sales. Responsibilities include overall sales management, setting and obtaining sales goals, marketing, promotions, hiring, training and long term planning. If you have three or more years of sales management experience and would enjoy working closely with the Purdue University, this position might be right for you! Qualified candidates should send resume to: Arthur A. Angotti III, 3824 South 18th Street, Lafayette, IN 47909 Email: arthur at artisticradio dot com. Artistic Media Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Brothers Broadcasting, a family owned regional broadcasting company in Rensselaer Indiana, half way between Chicago and Indianapolis is looking for a part-time production assistant. The ideal candidate should have some on-air experience and be familiar with Adobe Audition and Simian. Interested candidates should email their demos to Chris Locken at 977production at gmail dot com. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Brothers Broadcasting is and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Traffic Reporters Wanted - Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. Part time & fill-in traffic reporters, for Indianapolis & Fort Wayne. Must be available for early morning and afternoon/early evening. Prior experience a plus. EOE M/F E-mail MP3 Aircheck & Resume to: chicago_jobsat westwoodone dot com or Metro Networks, 161 N. Clark St. Suite 1300, Chicago, IL 60601.

That's all for this issue. Thank you for your continued support.

=============== Indiana RadioWatch ===============

(c) 2011, Blaine E. Thompson

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Indiana RadioWatch is produced weekly. Subscriptions are free. To subscribe, send an e-mail to irw@well.com asking to be added. Indiana RadioWatch is archived after publication on the Indiana Radio Archive at http://www.indianaradio.net. Submissions of any nature are welcomed by e-mail, FAX, or postal mail. Employment opportunities are posted as is, so please proofread. Employment opportunities are only posted when received from a credible source (usually the owner, GM, or PD of a station).

Finally, we thank you for your continued support.

=============== Indiana RadioWatch ===============

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