2007-The Year In Review

January 2007

New Year - New Home For John Boy And Billy   1-2-07
John Boy & Billy and The Big Show have turned up on WKRO-FM 93.1. Their show had been carried on WHTQ-FM 96.5. The present morning crew of Kingbird will move to afternoon drive and Stephanie will take over from 10 AM-3 PM. Pete Michaels, will be joining John Boy & Billy in the mornings!

Don Gould To Join WINS-AM 1010 New York    1-2-07
CFLRadio has heard from our radio friend Don Gould. He writes; "I just wanted you to know that I'm going back into the business after being semi-retired for two years.  The "semi" part was that we moved from New York City to NE Pennsylvania, and there wasn't anything around here for me to do other than play golf.  However, despite still living here, I've returned to New York radio anchoring the weekend morning sports for WINS Radio.

New Year At O-Rock   1-2-07
At WOCL-FM 105.9, Jody and Scott leave their night slot to take the afternoon drive slot. Former morning sidekick Mel Taylor will slide from afternoons back to her night time position. Mel's afternoon partner Bobby Smith will be concentrating on his duties as program director.

WTIR Flips To R&B/Gospel    1-4-07
 The husband and wife team of Cleo "Primetime" Sears and B. B. Sears will head up the new broadcast team at  WTIR-AM 1300. The new format will be Rhythm and Blues and Gospel. 

New Morning Show On WNDB    1-5-07
Dave Laing will be taking a behind the scenes roll on the new morning show coming to WNDB-AM 1150. "Wake Up Daytona" begins Monday morning, January 8, 2007, from  6AM until 9AM with new host Doug Kosarek.

Format Change At WINT-AM  1-10-07
Clear Channel owned WINT-AM 1560 is changing formats from "Music of Your Life" to "Scott Shannon's True Oldies Channel". Along with the new format, Larry Brewer will join the morning show later this month. 

CSB Coming To Orlando  1-15-07
Nationally known hands-on broadcast education school Connecticut School of Broadcasting will offer its first courses in Orlando on March 26, 2007. Chris Kampmeier, director of programming for Clear Channel radio stations in Orlando and Melbourne says: "For a market of our size, it's surprising that we don't have a full-time broadcasting school."

University Of Florida Station GM Says By Bye Gators  1-18-07
WUFT-FM 89.1, WJUF-FM 90.1, and WUFT-TV-DT General Manager Rick Lehner has announced he will be leaving after thirty years. Lehner will join the National Educational  Television Association as Vice President of Operations.

The Marc Bernier Show Starts Year 17  1-19-07
It was back on January 22, 1990 that Marc Bernier came to WNDB-AM 1150 in Daytona Beach. CFLRadio offers our congratulations.

Mornings Belong To WMGF  1-25-07
The Orlando Sentinel's Scott Maxwell is reporting the number one morning show in Orlando is WMGF-FM 107.7's "family friendly" duo of Dave Collins and Leslye Gayle. They have been number 1 in the mornings,  4 out of the last  5 ratings periods.
WDBO-AM 580's veteran Jim Turner, Doc and Johnny with Grace on WXXL-FM 106.7 follow the "Magic 107.7" duo. "The Fiasco" on WJRR-FM 101.1 has made tremendous strides in the ratings.  Pat Lynch, Taco Bob, Launa and CJ have jumped from 14th to fifth place. Read more on the ratings where we take a closer look.

Mix Morning Team Ink New Deal   1-31-07
 The morning duo of Scott and Erica on WOMX-FM 105.1 have signed a new contract that will keep them on the CBS owned station until the year 2011. 
A bit of history of Scott and Erica
October 29, 1990 Erica Lee joins the "MIX 105.1" morning show from Metro Traffic Services.
January 3, 1991 Scott McKenzie is named the new morning show host. He is first introduced to his newscaster, Erica Lee. This is the beginning of the "Scott and Erica Show". 

Doc Holliday Has Left the Building  3-5-07
Scott Maxwell is reporting that half of the Doc and Johnny Morning Show on WXXL-FM 106.7 has decided it was time to move on. Doc Holliday has submitted a letter of resignation to Clear Channel's Chris Kampmeier. Here's the link to Scott's column. Taking Names with Scott Maxwell
You can read the full transcript of the Representative Rick Keller's Salute to the Doc and Johnny Show's 15th anniversary on June 07, 2005

Johnny Magic Signs New Deal With WXXL  3-7-07
Johnny Magic, former partner of Doc Holliday, on WXXL-FM 106.7 signed a new two year deal with Clear Channel on Monday.

More On Doc Holliday's Exit  3-7-07
Doc Holliday who resigned from the Doc and Johnny Morning Show on WXXL-FM 106.7 has told Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel that he plans to stay in Orlando. He will call the games for the Orlando Predators and will likely do some work for Orlando's new indoor soccer league, as well as doing voice-over work. He even mused that radio may, again be part of his future. 

From Rhythmic to Mainstream CHR - WBVD-FM 95.1 Flips   3-13-07
 Central Florida Radio legend and program director at WLRQ-FM 99.3, Michael W. Lowe has let us know that WBVD-FM 95.1, known as "95-1, The Beat,” will flip from its Rhythmic CHR to Mainstream CHR at 6am Wednesday, March 14th.  The new “Kiss 95.1” will see only one staff change.  M.J. Kelli (coming over from WFLZ-FM, Tampa) will take over the wake-up duties, replacing Stick (from WXXL-FM 106.7).  Another XL-staffer, Jana, holds down mid-days , PD Brian “B-Rock” Richardson handles PM Drive, “Wingnut" keeps his top-rated night show, and Brian Lee handles the 11pm-3am shift.

Alex Diaz Wins Ugly Betty Contest   3-14-07
WXXL FM 106.7 morning show producer Alex Diaz has won the "Ugly Betty, a Face Made for Radio Deejay Contest."  Alex beat contestants from 22 competing radio stations nationwide.  Alex will get a trip to Hollywood to visit the set of "Ugly Betty." For all the "Ugly details" visit WFTV.com.

New PD For XL 106.7   3-17-07
 Michael Bryan will take over as Program Director at WXXL-FM 106.7 beginning April 10. Michael comes to Orlando by way of  Norfolk, VA and WNVZ-FM, where he was PD and afternoon personality.

Michael Baisden Joins Star 94.5  3-20-07
 WCFB-FM 94.5 has welcomed syndicated Michael Baisden to the 3PM-7PM slot. Eric "Hollywood" Davis moves to Fridays from 7pm to midnight and Sundays 4pm-7pm.

Ms. B Is Back  3-20-07
Ms. B, (Leslie Brewington), is back on the air at  WCFB-FM 94.5, Saturdays from 11AM to 4PM. Ms. B was part of the "102 Jamz" Wake-Up Posse at WJHM-FM 101.9 with Paco Lopez and Brandi Shannon from 1996 to 2000.   

Carole Nelson Changes Time Slots   3-21-07
 WMEL-AM 920  has moved the Carole Nelson show from the 10AM slot to the 2PM to 3PM. Carole and her former WFTV partner Danny Treanor will be together on Carole's program this Friday at  2PM. If you don't live within the broadcast reach of WMEL, they do stream their broadcast. Here's the link; http://www.920wmel.com

Dennis Miller Debut Today  3-26-07
 Comedian/Political Commentator/Author Dennis Miller joins the lineup on WORL-AM 660 today at 10AM. 

New PD For WKTK  3-26-07
WKTK-FM 98.5, Gainesville-Ocala program director, Bruce Cherry is gone. He will be replaced by Greg Southard who will also take over afternoons.

Michael Saunders Named Program Director At 102 Jamz   3-30-07
Michael Saunders, a veteran programmer will become the new Program Director, effective April 2 at WJHM-FM 101.9.  He replaces Stevie DeMann, who left in February.  Saunders was the PD of Clear Channel's Urban WWPR-FM 105.1 "Power 105.1"  in New York. 

WKTO Moves To 88.9  3-31-07
Randy Henry lets us know that WKTO-FM has moved to 88.9 from 88.7. This will allow them to broadcast at full power of 29,000 watts.

Eddie Hubbard Dies After Car Accident  3-31-07
Eddie Hubbard died March 26 after he and wife, were involved in an accident. Eddie was a veteran Chicago broadcaster eventually moving to Dallas and joining the ABC Radio Satellite Music Network. The "Stardust" format was carried by WHOO-AM 990 from 1993 until Disney took over in 2001.  


April  2007


WDBO Wins Another Murrow Award   4-2-07
WDBO-AM 580 has won the 2007 Radio and Television News Directors Association Edward R. Murrow Regional Award for spot news. The station won for team coverage of the fire at Gatorland Nov. 6.


The Imus Issue Sparks Hard Feelings In Orlando   4-12-07
WTKS-FM 104.1's Shannon Burke Show ended early Wednesday after Soul Brother Kevin stormed out of the studio during a debate on the Don Imus issue. After the argument Burke continued the show before he left the studio thirty minutes early. As of this morning Shannon and Kevin are back on the air.  Scott Maxwell has the full story here.


Rama Communications Fined $15,000    4-12-07
After a yearlong review,  Orlando-based Rama Communications Inc., owners of WTIR-AM 1300 in Cocoa Beach has lost an appeal to the Federal Communications Commission to reduce a $15,000 fine. The company was fined for failing to maintain emergency alert system equipment and failing to maintain security around its antenna on the radio station property. Inspectors visited the studios in January of 2006 after two complaints.  They discovered an entrance gate to the station's antenna field was torn down and the required additional fencing around the antenna itself had not been installed.  It was also noted that the emergency alert system had been installed, but the wiring had been removed.  The FCC also found that the logbook for the equipment had not been maintained.


PD Goes To Work For PD   4-13-07
Brian Scott, the Program Director for  WLKF-AM 1340 Lakeland and  WONN-AM 1230 in Winter Haven is leaving broadcasting after 15 years, for a career in law enforcement.


"The Voice of Deland" Passes On   4-23-07
Donald V. Ammon, died April 9, 2007, in Port Orange. Mr. Ammon retired as a program manager for radio stations WOOO-AM 1310, WJBS-AM 1490, WDLF-AM 1490 and WETO-AM 1490 all in Deland. He was 80 years old. Born in Donora, Pa., he moved to this area in 1955 from Pittsburgh. He attended Ashland University and the University of Akron, both in Ohio, and Stetson University. Don was also a past president of The Shoestring Theater in Lake Helen was also the person who wrote the theater's newsletter and frequently worked as an actor and director.


New Local Voice Takes Over For Imus   4-23-07
 WAMT-AM 1190 has replaced the fired Don Imus and "Imus In The Morning " with a local voice. "No Kidding" with Scott Kid will air from 7AM until 9AM on WAMT after Mancow which starts at 6AM.


Remember WORJ?  4-30-07
Lee Arnold of WORJ-FM 107.7, has announced he now has an Internet radio station at www.worj.com.  Lee states "It's my idea of what the station would sound like musically if it was still on the air in Orlando." He's looking for feedback as well.


May  2007


WXXL Morning Show Looses Another Host  5-3-07
Scott Maxwell is reporting in the Orlando Sentinel that the morning show at WXXL-FM 106.7 has lost another co host of the morning show. Grace Vasquez is the second member of the troop to say see ya! to XL106.7. Scott is hinting something is in the works for Doc and Grace, together again. Stay tuned...


WHOO Gets Approval For Power Increase    5-9-07
Genesis Communications received the go ahead from the FCC for Program Test Authority to increase the daytime power to 19KW for WHOO-AM 1080. "With this upgrade, WHOO paired with our 50KW WIXC 1060 in Melbourne, brings to central Florida the most powerful coverage of any Sports Radio stations in the Orlando-Melbourne area.  Our advertisers and listeners benefit greatly with this one-two punch in signals" said Kelley McGrath, Executive Vice President for Genesis Communications, Inc.  


30 Year Veteran Let Go From WLOQ   5-11-07
WLOQ-FM 103.1 has let go the veteran overnight man Joe Francis. Joe had been holding down the overnights from midnight until 5:30AM starting back in 1986. Word is the overnights now will be automated. 


NAACP Calls For Talk Host Firing  5-31-07
 Big John, the former Volusia County Council member, now afternoon talk host at WELE-AM 1380 has been accused of making a racist comment about Daytona Beach mayoral hopeful Dwayne Taylor. WELE owner Doug Wilhite issued a statement saying  "Big John's statement about mayoral candidate Commissioner Dwayne Taylor was in poor taste, but it was not racist." Cynthia Slater, president of the Volusia County-Daytona Beach Branch of the National Association of Colored People said;  "He (John) used a comment which is hurtful and inappropriate," said . "Monkey, history shows, has been directed as a disparaging remark toward African-Americans." 


June 2007

WELE Demands Apology  6-1-07
Doug Wilhite, the president of Wings Communications, said in an on-air statement on WELE-AM 1380 that NAACP spokeswoman Cynthia Slater misspoke by calling Big John a racist.  "In our society, to label someone as a racist is serious business,"  Wilhite said.  "It should be reserved for the Imuses of the world who truly do have a racist mindset.  Big John clearly does not."   Ms. Slater refused to apologize, saying there was no need.  "I do know what he said on the radio, and what he said was racist," she said Thursday night. "I don't need to apologize to Big John."


More On Big John  6-2-07
The Daytona Beach NAACP leaders have been joined by the Daytona Beach Black Clergy Alliance to pressure sponsors of "Big Talk with Big John" to have radio host Big John fired. The groups also plans to contact the Federal Communications Commission. Big John (his legal name) appeared Friday night on the "Hannity and Colmes" Fox News show to talk about his remarks. John said he's received many messages of support.  Doug Wilhite, president of Wings Communications, which owns WELE-AM 1380 is continuing efforts to get either the Rev. Al Sharpton or Rev. Jesse Jackson here to mediate the situation.  Wilhite issued an apology to anyone who was offended, calling John's remark "in poor taste," but "not racist."


Changes At  O-Rock?  6-18-07
WOCL-FM 105.9's Scott of the Jody and Scott Show is now solo on O-Rock in the afternoon. We'll be updating this info as it becomes available.


News From The Beach   6-21-07
WSBB-AM 1230, now known as "1230 The Beach" playing oldies has named George Winslow as General Manager after Tony Welch exits.  In other station news Cadillac Jack Stevens will join the line-up at WSBB.  Beginning July 9,  Jack will be manning the afternoon drive slot from 4-7PM.  Kris Earl Philips is the morning man heard from 6-10AM. 


Dick Sollom Passes    6-29-07
Rick (Saylor) Morgan let me know about Dick Sollom's passing.  
Richard G. "Dick" Sollom passed away June 1, 2007 at age 67.  Dick was born April 3, 1940 in Grand Forks, ND. He moved to Orlando in 1974. He served in the U.S. Army, worked in radio as part of the team of Rick and Dick. Dick is survived by his sister, Shirley Foster and, her husband Porter L. Foster, Jr. of North Dakota. 


July 2007

Carole Nelson Returns To WMEL  7-4-07
 After re-negotiations with WMEL-AM 920,  Carole Nelson will be returning to the air waves from noon to 1PM each week day.  The new time slot will allow Carole to do more remote broadcasts. 


Johnny Magic Gets A New Partner  7-5-07
Jayde joins the Johnny Magic Morning show on WXXL-FM 106.7


Jill Strada Exits Power 95.3  7-6-07
WPYO-FM 95.3 Program Director/Music Director Jill Strada is on the move to the Big Apple and "Hot 97" WQHT-FM New York City as Assistant Program Director/Music Director


Follow-up File: Big John Seeks To Reconcile   7-9-07
 Jerry Kenney sent a note to remind me that Big John made a statement of reconciliation to end the controversy back in June. In a statement Big said;  "While I do not apologize for my views of the mayoral candidate, have now been enlightened and seek to reconcile with all African-Americans who may have been offended by my remarks."  John said that, at the time, he was unaware of the history of degrading comments comparing black people with primates and how it would be especially hurtful to older blacks. He learned this lesson in recent private discussion with Bethune-Cookman University President Trudie Kibbe Reed and Harry Burney, an entertainer who grew up in Daytona Beach. "We didn't ask him to make an apology," Burney said. "But we asked for statement of reconciliation to the people in our community, who are just stunned by the 'monkey' metaphor. It's just not something we're comfortable with. It's driving wedge in the community that doesn't need to be there."


Stronger Signals For Two Genesis Stations  7-25-07
WHOO-AM 1080 recently received a power increase to 19,000 watts and WIXC-AM 1060 recently received a power upgrade to 50,000 watts. Both stations are owned and operated by Genesis Communications, Inc.  Genesis also owns WHBO-1470 AM "SportsRadio 1470AM" and WWBA-AM 1040 "NewsTalk 1040AM" in Tampa, and "TalkRadio"  WAMT-AM 1190 in Orlando.


Jim Turner Celebrates 35 Years At WDBO  7-26-07
 WDBO-AM 580's morning man Jim Turner will be celebrating his 35th year with the station. Jim began at WDBO as the afternoon personality and moved to mornings after Perry Moore left the station. The anniversary show begins at 5AM and audio and video will be broadcast on wdbo.com.


Brady Ackerman Goes Solo  7-26-07
 Brady has served as co-host to the "Terry Bowden-Brady Ackerman Show" since this past December and will now host the show himself. The program airs form 3 to 6PM Monday through Friday on both WHOO-AM 1080 and WIXC-AM 1060. Terry Bowden is leaving the area to join FSU as an observer to the football program. Terry will still be heard on WHOO-WIXC twice weekly as college football commentator during the Ackerman Show. Terry also will continue as a radio analyst for Westwood One college football games.
Brady is a former Gator running back and is a college football analyst for Sun Sports Television Network. Brady also co-hosts Arena Football League games for the Sun Sports Network. Brady brings many years of experience in radio to the ESPN affiliated stations.


K92 Drops Moore  7-28-07
Thanks to John Knott for this info. 
Melissa  Moore is the latest radio casualty. WWKA-FM 92.3 has let the female voice of the morning show go. Moore joined the station in the summer of 2000. The firing came as a shock, but station management said "they want to take the show in a different direction."  Ellis B. Feaster and Mark "Skid" Lavin will continue in the mornings.


Fred Klein Passes  7-29-07
 Barbara Barri has informed us of the death of Fred Klein. Fred has supplied loads of information, pictures and great stories to this website. Read about his day as a "nude model" at WLOF-AM 950, as Sean King, his very funny tale of his time at WCKS-FM 101.1 as well as great photos from "CK101"  and  photos and memories of WKKO-AM 860. We will have more details as they become available. To hear air checks of Fred you can got to ReelRadio.


Relive Those Golden Days Of WORJ  7-31-07
Join Orlando's WORJ-FM 107.7's original Program Director and DJ, Lee Arnold this Thursday (August 2, 2007) at 3:00 PM EDT for Gary Wright on The Southern Progressive Radio Network Live from BeeJay Recording Studios. Originally broadcast on WORJ on August 5th, 1975.  32 years ago almost to the day!  Listen here www.worj.com.


August  2007

Richard Ryan has been "Comin' Home" For 5 Years     8-1-07
 WLBE-AM 790 in Leesburg will celebrate another anniversary on Saturday. "Comin' Home" with Richard Ryan which airs at  1PM, will be celebrating his 5th year on the air. Ryan interviews local as well as national celebrities. The anniversary show, airing Saturday,  will include a montage of some of his past interviews. Ryan's wife  Marianne is the executive producer of the program.

Bye Bye Black Bean     8-13-07
 I really wish I had some insight in the parting of company between Clear Channel's WTKS-FM 104.1 and "Blackbean" (Carlos Navarro), but I don't. The folks at CC and the Monsters are all very tight lipped. As soon as we know you'll know. Stay tuned...

Gene Burns Celebrates 40 Years As A Talk Show Host    8-14-07
Gene Burns, who spent over 14 years in Orlando, will celebrate forty years as a talk show host. This is in fact his 45th year in the broadcast industry, today at KGO-AM 810 in San Francisco. KGO will present a special broadcast this afternoon from 2 pm until 4 pm (PDT) honoring the man and his accomplishment. Gene started in news at WWHG-FM 105.3 in Hornell, New York. For more on Gene read an Interview with Radio Phenomenon Gene Burns.

WMMB Drops Duncan  8-15-07
Clear Channel owned WMMB-AM 1240 has let morning show host Scott Duncan go. CC says they want to take the morning show in a different direction. That direction looks back to their previous morning host. WMMB has announced that Bill Mick who hosted mornings before leaving for California two years ago will take over the mornings once again. Before starting at WMMB-AM, Mick hosted a morning show on WMEL-AM 920.

WWBC To Increase Power    8-15-07
Thanks to Paul Walker  for letting us know that WWBC-AM 1510 in Cocoa will be increasing power. From Paul's email; "I heard from their owner, and they tested their 50KW for a month while doing a proof of performance on their 50KW Directional Antenna Pattern. The FCC has given them Program Test Authority to go to 23KW until final approval for 50KW is made. From 750W on one tower to 50KW on two towers, not bad.. the two tower pattern is very tight, to protect 1520 WHIM in Apopka."

Rick Weinkauf Retires     8-20-07
WLOQ Radio, Orlando Leisure Magazine, and CEO Magazine announced the retirement of Vice President/General Manager, Rick Weinkauf.  Rick has spent 40 years in the broadcasting field, 29 of those years here in Central Florida at WBJW-FM 105.1 (BJ105), WOMX-FM 105.1 (MIX 105.1) and the last 7 years at WLOQ-FM 103.1 (Smooth Jazz 103.1), and the magazine division of Gross Communications Corporation.  Rick is in the process of searching for his next challenge, and improving his golf handicap.  Rick has been married for 43 years and has two grown children and one grandson living in Orlando.

Ellis B. Feaster Leaves the Morning Show     8-23-07
Ellis B. Feaster is the latest casualty at WWKA-FM 92.3. What direction will K92 go? We'll have to wait and see. Stay tuned...

The Gator Country Radio Show Is Back    8-27-07
ESPN Radio 900, WMOP-AM 900 Ocala and ESPN Radio 1230 WGGG-AM 1230 Gainesville, will be broadcasting sports talk with a decidedly Gator slant. Beginning  Wednesday, Aug 29, 2007 Gator Country Radio will be heard from 8AM-10AM Monday through Friday. The show will be hosted by Mark McLeod.

Drew And Crew Collecting CDs and DVDs    8-31-07
To show support to our men and women serving in Iraq, starting at 11:00am this morning Drew Garabo of The Morning After Show  on WOCL-FM 105.9 will be at Daytona Mitsubishi collecting CDs and DVDs to be taken to Iraq and hand delivered to our men and women in uniform by the one and only Bret Michaels of the band Poison! Bret is going to do a special concert in a few weeks for our troops in Iraq and he wants to deliver as many CDs and DVDs as he can to our soldiers.


September  2007


Doc Turns Country Jock   9-6-07
"K92FM" WWKA-FM 92.3 has found a new morning show host.  Doc Holliday (Jeff Duncan) former morning co-host of the Doc and Johnny Morning Show on WXXL-FM 106.7 will take over the morning hosting duties on Monday, September 10.  Skid the Producer will join Doc. Can Grace be far behind?

95.3 Names New PD    9-7-07
CBS owned WPYO-FM 95.3 has named Stevie DeMann as Program Director, effective September 10. He will replace  Jill Strada, who moved to New York's WQHT-FM in July as Assistant Program Director/Music Director. Stevie had been Program Director at  Cox owned WJHM-FM 101.9 since May, 2001. 

Silent Rob Heads To Philly    9-10-07
"The Morning After Show" on WOCL-FM 105.9 is shy one co-host today as Silent Rob (Rob Calvert) will be leaving O-Rock 105.9 to take a position at WMGK-FM 102.9 with the John DeBella Morning Show starting on October 1.


WFIT Equipment Damaged   9-12-07
WFIT-FM 89.5 suffered equipment damage after a backup caused three inches of diluted sewage to spill onto the radio station's floor on Tuesday. They may need to find a new home, away from the freshman dorms where the problem occurred. 


Olsen On Law On The Air For 20 Years   9-15-07
Attorney Tom Olsen began in 1986 as a guest on the Lynn Levine hosted program on WKIS-AM 740 called "At Your Service". Tom made many appearances with Lynn and was soon offered his own program. "Olsen on Law" moved from WKIS to WDBO-AM 580 in 1994. Tom is heard Saturdays and Sundays from Noon-1pm on WDBO.


Bobby Mitchell Celebrates 15 Years At K92FM   9-21-07
On September 23 Bobby Mitchell will celebrate his 15th anniversary at the same station, which is no small feat in the radio business. Bobby joined WWKA-FM 92.3 in 1992. 

Shadow In His 17th Year at K92FM     9-21-07
Not to take away anything from Bobby Mitchell, but another K92 host, Shadow is now in his 16th year at K92. His first stint was in 1982-1983, as Rod Grant and then returning in 1992.  Shadow has been on Orlando radio since 1982 making him one of the few personalities to still be heard on Central Florida air waves.

October 2007
Rozzie Franco Joins WDBO     10-1-07
As I was listening to WDBO-AM 580 over the weekend, I heard a familiar voice. The "cub reporter" from WNDB-AM 1150, Rozzie Franco, has joined the staff of WDBO as a part-timer. Good luck Roz. 


George Crossley Is Back  10-12-07
George Crossley has returned to the Orlando air waves as host of "The People Power Hour" Saturdays, 2PM-3PM on WAMT-AM 1190. George is the current president of the Central Florida chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union. I remember he and Clive Thomas having some of the most heated arguments over the Central Florida showing of the movie "The Last Temptation of Christ'. 


Radio Voice Of High School Football Dead At 47  10-15-07
WIXC-AM 1060 broadcaster Keith Lippert, died of a heart attack on Friday night just hours before he was to broadcast a high school football game. Lippert was known as "the radio voice of high school football in Brevard County." The game featured Space Coast High at Melbourne High. Lippert, was 47. He also hosted  "Friday Night Locker Room with Keith Lippert".  He was treated at the scene and then transported to Holmes Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday at a location to be announced. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations toward a scholarship it is creating for aspiring sports radio broadcasters. Funeral arrangements are being handed by Wiley-Baxley Funeral Home in Rockledge. There will be a service for Keith on Saturday, October 20, at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home (1200 S. U.S. 1) in Rockledge at 10:00 a.m.


Melissa Missing No Moore   10-16-07
Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel reports that former WWKA-FM 92.3 morning co-host Melissa Moore has taken an offer from Hubbard Broadcasting's KSTP-FM 94.5 "KS95" in Minneapolis. She will be co-host of the morning show with their morning man Greg Thunder. She will be introduced to Minnesota on November 5.


Dunaway Departs WJHM  10-16-07
DJ Kaye Dunaway of  WJHM-FM 101.9 is no longer with the station. She joined WJHM-FM 101.9 in May of 2006.

Bob Mervine Passes    10-18-07
Orlando Business Journal Staff Writer Bob Mervine died Wednesday October 17, 2007, after a brief hospitalization at Florida Hospital Altamonte. Mervine, 60, covered hospitality and tourism and media for OBJ since joining the staff full time in August 2001. Prior to that time, Mervine worked as a publicist for Walt Disney World and for The Villages. He previously worked as a broadcast journalist as well. In the years he was with OBJ, Mervine won a number of regional and state awards, including a Society of Professional Journalists Green Eyeshade award, as well as being part of the OBJ team that won a Society of American Business Editors and Writers award for the 2004 hurricane coverage and its impact on local businesses. "We are greatly saddened at the news of Bob's death, but want to thank all those in the community who phoned or e-mailed during his hospitalization," says Editor Cindy Barth. "We always knew Bob was a well-known figure about town, and we know he will be sorely missed by all those who had the opportunity to meet and to know him." A memorial service and tribute to Mervine will be held Sunday, Oct. 21, from 2-4 p.m. at The Peabody Hotel, 9801 International Drive. Attendees are asked to remember him by wearing Hawaiian shirts to the service.

Ken Marks Moved To Vice President/General Manager     10-19-07
Gross Communications owners of WLOQ-FM 103.1 announce 12 year veteran Ken Marks has assumed the position of VP/GM. Marks succeeds Rick Weinkauf, who announced his retirement after 40 years in broadcasting. Beginning November 1, Marks will oversee WLOQ-FM 103.1 as well as the company's publications Orlando Leisure Magazine and CEO Magazine. During Marks' 12 years with the company, he has served as a Marketing Consultant, National Sales Manager, Local Sales Manager and Director of Sales.

More Moves At WLOQ   10-19-07
Jennifer Rabaja, who has recently carried the title of Local Sales Manager, will now assume all local sales management responsibilities for WLOQ-FM 103.1. 

Changes, Changes and More Changes   10-23-07
Damon Free, Music Director and night time jock at WAOA-FM 107.1 has left the Melbourne station. WBVD-FM 95.1, Melbourne, Program Director Michael Bryan, who also programs WXXL-FM 106.7 Orlando, takes on an oversight role as brand manager. Program Director Nick Sanders is leaving 
WPOI-FM 101.5 "The Point" in Tampa as  on October 31, after Cox Radio eliminated his position. He joined the station in 1999 as Program Director/Morning host when it was Rhythmic Oldies WFJO-FM 101.5. You might remember Nick from his time at WOMX-FM 105.1.

Doc and Grace Together Again   10-25-07
Looks like the "K92 Morning Crew" is complete now. Grace (Vasquez) has joined Doc and Skid on the morning show at WWKA-FM 92.3.


Matthew Bronson Named GM   10-25-07
WMEL-AM 920 President has announced Matthew Bronson will become the General Manager for "The Talk To Me Station." In making the announcement WMEL founder John Harper said; "Matthew has the experience, drive and knowledge of the local market that we are looking for at WMEL to take us to the next level in broadcasting talk, news and sports along the Space and Treasure Coasts."


Here Come The Ratings   10-26-07
Orlando
1. WPYO-FM 95.3   2. WDBO-AM 580 (t) WMGF-FM 107.7 (t) WPOZ-FM 88.3  5. WCFB-FM 94.5  
 6. WJHM-FM 101.9  (t) WWKA-FM 92.3   8. WMMO-FM 98.9   9. WRUM-FM 100.3   10. WLOQ-FM 103.1 (t) WXXL-FM 106.7   12. WTKS-FM 104.1  13. WOMX-FM 105.1    14. WJRR-FM 101.1   15. WMFE-FM 90.7  16. WHTQ-FM 96.5   17. WFLF-AM 540   18. WNUE-FM 98.1   19. WPCV-FM 97.5   20. WOCL-FM 105.9   21. WQTM-AM 740   22. WEUS-AM 810  23. WRLZ-AM 1270   24. WTLN-AM 950   
25. WRMQ-AM 1140 (t) WUCF-FM 89.9   27. WOKB-AM 1600   28. WHOO-AM 1080 (t) WLAA-AM 1680  
(t) (Tampa's) WPOI-FM 101.5  31. WDYZ-AM 990 

Gainesville-Ocala
1. WOGK-FM 93.7  2. WSKY-FM 97.3   3. WNDD-FM 95.5   4. WTMG-FM 101.3   5. WKTK-FM 98.5 (t)  WTRS-FM 102.3  7. WRUF-FM 103.7   8. WMFQ-FM 92.9   9. WYKS-FM 105.3  10. WJHM-FM 101.9   
11. WCFB-FM 94.5   12. WRZN-AM 720 13. WOCL-FM 105.9   14. WXXL-FM 106.7   15. WKZY-FM 106.9  16. WMGF-FM 107.7   17. WTMN-AM 1430  (t) WXJZ-FM 100.9 19. WBXY-FM 99.5 (t) WDUV-FM 105.5  
(t) WDVH-AM 980 (t) WRUF-AM 850  23. WHHZ-FM 100.5 (t) WOCA-AM 1370 (t) WRGO-FM 102.7 
26. WMOP-AM 900 (t) WRUM-FM 100.3 (t) WVLG-AM 640  29. WIFL-FM 104.3 (t) WOMX-FM 105.1


Happy Anniversary!   10-27-07
Erica Lee celebrates her 17th year on the air at WOMX-FM 105.1 on Monday, October 29. Congratulations Ms. Lee.


"O-Rock 105.9" Celebrates Seven Years   10-31-07
Today marks the seventh anniversary of WOCL-FM 105.9 as "O-Rock". 105.9 has a long history in Central Florida Radio history. The station originated as WDLF-FM 105.9. We have the entire history of the frequency beginning here.


November 2007


Erica Lee  and "Locks of Love"   11-3-07
MyFox Orlando has a great story about Erica Lee from the Scott and Erica Show on WOMX-FM 105.1. Erica is grieving the loss of her best friend Emily Berry who died Nov. 1, 2007 of ovarian cancer. See the story here. MyFox Orlando


Look,  Up In The Sky...     11-9-07
 Ron Bison former WWKA-FM 92.3 morning host was heard this morning doing the traffic reports on WDBO-AM 580's Central Florida's Morning News with Jim Turner.

Changes at the Hit Kicker    11-10-07
Veteran air personality and program director Ted Turner at WHKR-FM 102.7  has signed off for the last time. According to Breuse Hickman at Florida Today Ted will turn his attention to a Palm Bay business he owns with another WHKR personality, Doc Holiday (not the Doc at WWKA-FM 92.3). 

One Less Pirate    11-10-07
Eric DeNiro has been let go by Cumulus and "The Pirate" WSJZ-FM 95.9. DeNiro began with Cumulus 13 years ago at WAOA-FM 107.1.

Two Produce No More   11-13-07
Clear Channel has said it was due to budget cuts when they let Shannon Burke Show producer "Steadman" go from WTKS-FM 104.1. Now  Zack Skyler is the latest casualty of the producer purge. CBS Radio and Zack couldn't come to terms on a new contract. Zack was a producer for the WOMX-FM 105.1 "Scott and Erica Morning Show".

More Changes at Clear Channel    11-15-07
Afternoon host at WMGF-FM 107.7, Brenda Matthews explains what happened to her in the latest moves at CC Orlando.
"After 11 years working for this company, 3 radio stations - WSHE/Cool 100/Magic 107, and 8 years at Magic alone, and great numbers - not to toot my own horn, but what the heck - I've more often than not, been the #1 Mid-day personality in Orlando, and often with the largest share in Orlando no matter the day part, Clear Channel is doing some serious downsizing, and yes...I'm one of the cuts.  Across the country the company is 'reducing the body count', I was told. I'm clearly a poster girl for working hard and doing more than what's been asked.  I've done the above, well represented my 'family' station, did what was asked of me and more.  I voicetrack 3 other Clear Channel stations too. (Melbourne and Tallahassee, FL, and El Paso, TX) and my situation clearly shows you that nothing is sacred now days...no job is safe, not only in radio, but in the current business climate in this country.  Great numbers, great track record, etc., really doesn't mean a thing anymore - it doesn't make your job 'secure.'  You used to get a gold watch for good service. I had the choice of being severanced, or staying on to voice track my mid day shift Magic at a greatly reduced rate.  I also was under a time limit pressure to make my decision. I've decided, for now, to stay.  The company is now going to set me up in my home studio, so I won't have to be in the office daily, and I'll be able to pursue other 'avenues' now, since I'll have more time on my hands. Change is the only consistency in life...and maybe this will be a good thing in the long run...I'll be working for myself...sorta. Disappointing?  Extremely.  Devastating?  No - I have my 'big girl panties' on. If anyone would like to be in touch, I'm at BMVoicetracking@aol.com.

It's Beginning To Sound A Lot Like Christmas  11-23-07
Looking for Christmas music?  WMGF-FM 107.7 and WLRQ-FM 99.3 as well as WROD-AM 1340 are all broadcasting Christmas music through Christmas day. 


More Shake Ups At Clear Channel    11-27-07
Clear Channel Radio's Total Traffic Network (CCTTN) while expanding in some markets, it's Orlando division is being consolidated in to the Tampa office. What does this mean? Well it means more lay-offs at CC Orlando. Those affected include; Robin Cole, Doug Stewart, Brian Fritz, Greg Cain, Rebecca Gifford, Doug Stewart, Graig Cain as well as part-timers Michelle Betancort, Natasha Betancort, Russ Ross, Jacqueline Vaituulala, David Buffa and Debra Thibodeau. 
Kevin Baldinger retains his position as  Operations Manager and will remain based here and will perform traffic reports for morning and afternoon drive for the Orlando stations.


Zack Skyler Lands On His Feet   11-27-07
Zack Skyler former producer for Scott and Erica on WOMX-FM 105.1 is headed to Minneapolis to become the producer for former WWKA-FM 92.3 morning co-host, Melissa Moore, at KSTP-FM 94.5 "KS95".


WNUE-FM 98.1 Sold   11-30-07
Entravision Communications Corporation announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Spanish-language station WNUE-FM 98.1 from Mega Communications for approximately $24 million. Entravision will begin operating the station on December 1, 2007 pursuant to a local marketing agreement between Entravision and Mega Communications.


December 2007


Happy Birthday!    12-2-07
Gene Burns who spent 14 years at WKIS-AM 740 (now at KGO-AM 810, San Francisco) celebrates his 67th birthday on Monday, December 3. Happy Birthday Gene!

 Pat Campbell Gone From WFLF   12-3-07
WFLF-AM 540 has let morning man Pat Campbell go. He was replaced this morning by sports talker Dan Sileo, who is also heard in AM drive on Clear Channel's WQTM-AM 740. Pat's producer Alex Decker has been shown the door as well.

 Oops!   12-3-07
We left out another station that is playing all Christmas music. WPOZ-FM 88.3 is playing Christmas music as well as WMGF-FM 107.7, WLRQ-FM 99.3 and WROD-AM 1340 through Christmas day. 

 More Moves At Clear Channel Orlando   12-4-07
Producer and side-kick for the Dan Sileo Show, "Simon" (David Like) was let go today by CC Orlando. Simon has been with Clear Channel for eleven years. 
We are also hearing that Ralph Irvin the acting Program Director, (after the dismissal of twelve-year Program Director Mark Daniels in 2006), will be leaving WQTM.

 Big Changes For WFLF and WQTM    12-4-07
WFLF-AM 540 will become a hybrid station of News/Talk/Sports. Already gone is Pat Campbell, replaced by Dan Sileo's sports themed morning show. By the end of the month "The Finish Line" with Jerry O'Neill, The Shot Doctor and producer Mike Tuck now on WQTM-AM 740 will move over to WFLF-AM 540 in the 6PM-9PM time slot, replacing Mike Gallagher.
At WQTM-AM 740, before the year ends, you will be hearing Clear Channel's Mexican Variety Music Network "La Presciosa". The service targets Spanish-dominant Latinos aged 18 to 54 featuring Spanish hits from the 1970s through the 1990s.

Speaking Of Changes   12-5-07
WAMT-AM 1190 has added 2 new programs to their morning line-up. "Wake ups" are now handled by Bobbie DePew. The show is heard Monday thru Friday from 7AM until 9AM with  “Decades of beautiful music” along with traffic, news, and weather. The other new program on WAMT is called  "Back 2 Reality" with co-hosts Eric and Holly. 
Now that WQTM-AM 740 is headed to (Clear Channel owned) Mexican Variety Music Network "La Presciosa",
WHOO-AM 1080 "Sportsradio AM1080" is now the only ALL sports station in Central Florida . Genesis Communications continues to support local, regional, and national sports…from preps to the pros. 

 Checking In   12-6-07
I was curious about some of the casualties of the Clear Channel purge. I checked in with Simon, Bud Hedinger and 
Pat Campbell. Here are their responses.

 Simon From The Dan Sileo Show
"I plan on continuing my freelance work that I've done over the past 5 years with the Orlando Magic and the past 10 years with Walt Disney World. I've got 3 irons in the fire right now and I'm hoping one or more of those opportunities come to fruition..."

 Bud Hedinger
 "I've been told it's status quo for Rush, Glenn and me. Business as usual on 540WFLA from 9am to 6pm each day."

 Pat Campbell
 You can keep up with Pat on his blog at PC540. We'll be adding Pat's bio in the next few days. Stay tuned...

 Fritz, Dickerman and Vito
 Brian Fritz, Dickerman, and Vito DeNucci co-hosts of Between the Ropes on WQTM-AM 740 announced on last nights show that the format change is coming and they are not sure where their show will be broadcast. Stay tuned. 


Scott and Erica Best Of 2007   12-10-07
The Scott and Erica Show on WOMX-FM 105.1  will be airing the best of their 2007 shows on Friday morning, December 14.

Monsters Telethon/Radiothon To Help The Mustard Seed   12-11-07
The Monsters in the Morning on WTKS-FM 104.1 will be holding their annual fundraiser for the Mustard Seed, on Friday December 14. You can catch the broadcast via Brighthouse cable in Orlando, on the air at WTKS-FM 104.1 as well as video on the Internet at Monsters.FM. One highlight of the show will be many local TV weather folks singing "Let it Snow." The telethon airs Friday from 6AM to 11AM.


Monsters Read CFLRadio   12-13-07
This morning on WTKS-FM 104.1 on the Monsters In The Morning show. The discussion turned to Russ Wheeler and
"Dirty Jim" quoted from our page on Russ. Pete Forgione also hosted the "Dialing For Dollars Movie" on channel 9. As for the question of the local "Bozo the Clown", that was none other than Alan Rock.
Here's the audio from this morning.

Happy Birthday!  12-31-07
Happy Birthday to Reagan Smith. He celebrates the new year and his birthday tomorrow, January 1. Happy Birthday Reagan!

Still Missing Pat Campbell?  12-31-07
Former WFLF-AM 540 morning show host Pat Campbell be on Fox & Friends on New Year's Day. He will be doing two segments along with Bob Beckel at 7:15AM Eastern. 

Bucs Playoff Games Go To 104.1   12-31-07
With the flip of WQTM-AM 740 to "La Preciosa" and Tampa Bay Bucs fans wanting to listen to the playoff games, you will have to tune to WTKS-FM 104.1.

Lots Of Changes For 2008  12-29-07
The most dramatic change will take place tonight-December 29.  WQTM-AM 740 "The Team" becomes WQTM-AM 740 "La Preciosa" after the Liberty Bowl game broadcast pitting UCF and Mississippi State. Marc Daniels will do the play-by-play, Gary Parris the color commentary and Jerry O'Neill the sideline reporting. If you are looking for Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Orlando Predators games will have to tune into other stations after Dec. 30.  Stay tuned here for the latest updates. 

WJRR-FM 101.1's Launa Phillips will be back from vacation this coming week and will be covering a different shift.
 
Radio and Records is reporting that WMEL-AM 920 in Melbourne, has been sold to Divine Mercy Communications Inc. Plans call for a Catholic radio format to replace the news/talk station.

New Smyrna Beach oldies station WSBB-AM 1230 "The Beach" has been sold. Closing should occur in around 90 days, after FCC  approval.

Genesis Adds Senior VP Sports Business Development Position   12-28-07
Veteran Sports marketing executive Steven Baltimore has been hired by Genesis Communications to develop sales and marketing for its Florida ESPN radio stations.  Baltimore most recently held the position of President/Owner of Brighton Media for the past 5 years. Brighton partnered sports publications with major companies in advertising and marketing. Baltimore also spent 10 years in radio and television with CBS, Hearst Argyle and Paxson Communications in various sales management positions.  

Like Old Times  12-27-07
If you've been listening to The Central Florida Morning News on WDBO-AM 580 this week, you have heard some familiar voices. Of course you would have had to be around CFLRadio for a while. Sitting in for Jim Turner this week is Rob Newton and sitting in for Officer Jim and handling traffic duties is the K92 former morning man Ron Bison. 
Between The Ropes Farewell...For Now   12-26-07
Tonight Brian Fritz, Dickerman, and Vito DeNucci, will host the last Between The Ropes show on WQTM-AM 740 at 10PM. We will let you know if they will move to another station so stay tuned... 

Relive Those Thrilling Days Of Yesteryear...   12-25-07
Lee Arnold of WORJ-FM 107.7 and now of worj.com has lined up a special Christmas treat. Beginning around 1 PM (Eastern) he'll be running 3 Specials. First up Chicago, Next-The Beatles and then a 90 minute Led Zeppelin special. 

WESH-TV GM Bill Bauman Retires    12-19-07
What does that have to do with Central Florida Radio? Well before Bill's move to TV he was a "radio guy". Read about Bill here; Bill Bauman Biography

540 Schedule   12-17-07
The new WFLF-AM 540 schedule will be as follows;  5AM "Wall Street Journal This Morning",  6AM "The Dan Sileo Show" ,  9AM "The Glenn Beck Program",  Noon Rush Limbaugh,  3PM Bud Hedinger,  6PM "The Finish Line",  9PM Mike McCollum and 11PM-5AM "Coast To Coast George Noory".
Gators remain on 540…Predators may be in the future…UCF contract under discussion Bucs may go to another station in the CC cluster.


Monsters Telethon/Radiothon Raises Funds   12-15-07
Russ Rollins said the Monsters in the Morning Radiothon/Telethon that was broadcast via WTKS-FM 104.1 and Brighthouse cable raised more than $18,000 for the Mustard Seed.
Speaking of the Monster Radiothon/Telethon, "Dirty Jim" proved he is the Goat Roping Champion of Palatka by roping a goat, live on the air in 3 tries. Just between you and me, he looked as surprised as anyone. 


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