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Until recently, a pair of FM radio stations serving Las Vegas with “rimshot” signals had better coverage of St. George, Utah, than much of Southern Nevada. Now, thanks to an agreement with GeoBroadcast Solutions, these two facilities are poised to increase their listener base — and potentially their revenue — thanks to improved coverage of the nation’s No. 32 radio market.

 

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German network operators Uplink Network and Divicon Media Holdings announced merger plans at the end of February 2024. Under the merger, the two companies’ broadcasting operations, as well as radio technology and audio services, will be combined under the Uplink brand.

Together Uplink and Divicon operate more than 1,200 FM transmitters and nine DAB+ multiplexes with more than 70 DAB+ programs, along with a private 5G network, across some 700 locations. Terms of the merger were not disclosed, but the combined company is expected to generate more than €55 million in 2024. The companies will maintain a staff of 85 with locations in Düsseldorf, Berlin, Frankfurt am Main, and Leipzig.

“The merger of the two companies enables us to keep the costs of operating the broadcast network stable over the long term while increasing quality,” stated Michael Radomski, founder and managing partner of the Uplink Gruppe. “With today’s step, we see ourselves more than ever in a position to find long-term solutions for the transformation of terrestrial broadcasting in Germany together with German broadcasters.”

Joseph Bugovics, partner of Divicon Media Holding and founder and managing partner of the Uplink Gruppe, noted that both companies had played a major role in growing terrestrial radio in Germany. “I am pleased that Divicon Media Holding was able to help shape this crucial stage and that a new chapter is now being opened by merging under the umbrella of the Uplink Gruppe.”

Uplink Network was founded in 2013 and Divicon a year later.

[Read more business news from Radio World.]

The post Uplink, Divicon Media Announce Merger appeared first on Radio World.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Baltimore-headquartered broadcast TV station owner and ATSC 3.0 champion Sinclair Inc. has partnered with the nation’s leading children’s literacy non-profit organization to launch a nationwide campaign that seeks to create awareness around children’s literacy challenges.

Sinclair Cares: Supporting Children’s Literacy sees the company led by CEO Chris Ripley link up with Reading Is Fundamental (RIF). To help get books into the hands of children across the U.S., a virtual book drive is being promoted. A $4 donation can help get a new book to a child in the nation’s most under-resourced communities.

“A recent study conducted by the National Institute for Literacy found that twenty percent of Americans read below the level needed to earn a living wage,” said Rob Weisbord, Chief Operating Officer and President of Local Media at Sinclair. “Our goal is to help ensure all children can become proficient readers, improving their future, and helping them to reach their full potential.”

The children’s literacy campaign will run across March, which is National Reading Month, and will be supported through public service campaigns across Sinclair’s television stations.

For the next two weeks, on-air talent from Sinclair’s local stations across the U.S. will be reading to students in schools and libraries in their respective markets in support of an associated “Read Across America” effort.

Additionally, Sinclair and RIF will team up to produce content to air on Sinclair-owned stations throughout March. Sinclair will also produce a 30-minute special to raise awareness around the issue. This broadcast will focus on the state of children’s literacy in the U.S., and feature interviews from RIF executives, literacy experts, educators and local students. The broadcast window for this special is March 21-March 31.

Sinclair’s TV stations will also stream a 60-minute version of the special on their respective websites.

National Assessment of Educational Progress scores for 2022 show that one in three children entering kindergarten lack the basic skills they need to learn to read, while two-thirds of U.S fourth graders do not read at grade level.

While the pandemic had much to do with current educational attainment levels of American youth, RIF dates to 1966 and has provided nearly 430 million books and reading resources to over 160 million children.

As Sinclair Inc. encourages support and awareness across its TV channels, the Sinclair Cares: Supporting Children’s Literacy campaign will also be supported by a $25,000 donation from the company.

For more information on Sinclair Cares: Supporting Children’s Literacy or to make a donation to the virtual book fair, please visit https://sinclaircares.com/.

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Media consumption and ratings firm Comscore has scored a new, comprehensive multi-year agreement on cross-platform audience measurement with the broadcast TV station ownership group led by Lynn Beall and CEO Dave Lougee.

The fresh agreement with TEGNA “will extend its relationship with TEGNA as a key measurement partner” in all of the company’s markets, “providing it with critical measurement metrics across its local TV, major affiliate, and digital businesses.”

Key to the new pact is that TEGNA will have “a complete view of audiences” — linear, CTV, and digital —as they help advertisers optimize their campaigns.

Financial terms of the agreement were not announced.

TEGNA owns 64 local news brands in 51 markets, including its flagship CBS affiliate, WUSA9 in the National Capital Region. It is also the owner of more NBC affiliates than any other station group, with key stations in markets ranging from Buffalo to Phoenix.

Comscore CEO Jon Carpenter said, “The combination of our local linear TV data and our ross-platform solutions will help TEGNA measure the value of their content and deliver outsized value for their advertisers across linear and digital. We’re excited to begin this latest phase of our partnership.”

Beall, who serves as TEGNA’s EVP and Chief Operating Officer for Media Operations, added, “Expanding our partnership with Comscore will offer us deeper insights through digital and qualitative data, enriching cross-platform solutions for our valued advertising partners. We look forward to partnering with our clients to deliver their targeted audiences across any platform with precision and effectiveness to grow their business.”

 

— With reporting by Adam R Jacobson in Boca Raton, Fla.

With retransmission consent and carriage fee agreements topics that have captured the attention of the FCC in recent weeks, many tales of “blackouts” caused by impasses between broadcast TV station owners seeking fair compensation from MVPDs who profit from the distribution of their channels have been shared.

Now, Gray Television is spreading the word that it has surpassed “a major retrans renewal milestone.” How so? It reached new carriage agreements without any disruption to viewers.

Gray, which trades on the NYSE as “GTN,” successfully completed renewals of retransmission consent agreements representing more than 70% of its total subscriber footprint among cable, satellite, and telco multichannel video programming distributors, or “traditional MVPDs,” in its current three-year retransmission renewal cycle.

This began with the renewal of agreements with three of the largest traditional MVPDs in the first quarter of 2023, Gray shared on Monday (3/4).

“Consistent with Gray’s history of retransmission renewal negotiations since the early 1990s, these negotiations, while often difficult and always complex, were all conducted without any disruption to consumers,” Gray SVP of Government Relations and Distribution Rob Folliard said. “We sincerely appreciate the cooperative, constructive efforts of our MVPD partners in this renewal cycle.”

Gray EVP and Chief Legal and Development Officer Kevin Latek added, “As a testament to the value of the live, local news and sports content that Gray’s stations provide, we have reached this retrans renewal milestone on rates and other terms that met our budgets and that will allow our stations to continue making considerable investments to expand local news and sports for the benefit of the local communities where our employees and these MVPDs’ employees live and work.”

Based on the successful negotiations with traditional MVPDs to date, Gray currently anticipates that it will complete its current renewal cycle by reaching new deals with a small number of cable operators serving less than 30% of its remaining traditional MVPD subscriber base, primarily during the second half of this year, the company said. Thereafter, Gray’s next renewal cycle will begin in the first quarter of 2026.

Gray television stations serve 114 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36% of U.S. television households.

For 17 years, he was associated with ZGS Broadcasting, and in 2018 joined NBCUniversal Local as it assumed ownership of the company’s Telemundo-affiliated stations.  In March 2023, this longtime Hispanic marketing and media pro exited as General Manager of the Telemundo-flagged stations in Fort Myers-Naples and Tampa-St. Petersburg.

Now, one year later, he’s resurfaced as General Sales Manager for two FMs that superserve Tampa Bay’s Hispanic listening audience, owned by Beasley Media Group.

Now GSM of WLLD “Wild 94.1,” a hip-hop station, and Latin Contemporary Pop sibling WYUU “Máxima 92.5” in the Tampa market is Jayme Ribeiro Neto.

Neto’s first day is Monday (3/4). In his new role, he will oversee the sales operations of both stations in the market.

“It’s important for Tampa Beasley to hire the best people to lead the only Multicultural Media Cluster in the Tampa Bay area,” said Beasley/Tampa VP/Market Manager Ron deCastro, whom Neto reports to. “I am excited to add Jayme as he brings a wealth of Multicultural and general market knowledge. He also is dedicated to seeking out, training, and retaining the best team in the area. We are happy to have him join such amazing brands.”

Neto added, “I am thrilled to embark on this new and exciting journey with Beasley Media Group. I look forward to leveraging my market experience and passion for media to contribute to the success of our clients and partners.”

Neto was an intern for MTV Internaciónal when he joined ZGS in 2001, taking a role as a marketing and public relations coordinator for its Washington, D.C., station, WZDC-TV. In 2007, he would rise to the role of GM of WRMD-TV in Tampa, and assumed Fort Myers duties following the purchase of WWDT in the market by NBCUniversal.

It is being billed as the first streaming sports channel of its kind in the city that’s home to the National Football League’s Jaguars and the “world’s largest outdoor cocktail party” each time the Georgia Bulldogs face the Florida Gators.

And, the offering comes courtesy of Cox Media Group.

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This document amends the Table of FM Allotments, of the Federal Communications Commission's (Commission) rules, by allotting FM Channel 296A at Lihue, Hawaii, as the community's sixth local service and FM Channel 236C3 at Princeville, Hawaii, as the community's first local service. The staff engineering analysis indicates that Channel 296A at Lihue can be allotted consistent with the minimum distance separation requirements of the Commission's rules with a site restriction of 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) north of the community at reference coordinates 22-00-00 NL and 159-21-00 WL and Channel 236C3 at Princeville can be allotted consistent with the minimum distance separation requirements of the Commission's rules with no site restriction at reference coordinates 22-12-00 NL and 159-30-00 WL.

This document amends the Table of FM Allotments, of the Federal Communications Commission's (Commission) rules, by allotting FM Channels 264A at Koloa, Hawaii, and 224C3 at Waimea, Hawaii, as the communities' first local service. The staff engineering analysis indicates that Channel 264A at Koloa can be allotted consistent with the minimum distance separation requirements of the Commission's rules with a site restriction of 8.3 kilometers (5.2 miles) northwest of the community at reference coordinates are 21-58-24 NL and 159-29-45 WL and Channel 224C3 at Waimea can be allotted consistent with the minimum distance separation requirements of the Commission's rules with no site restriction at reference coordinates are 22-02-00 NL and 159-38-00 WL.

This document amends the Table of FM Allotments, of the Federal Communications Commission's (Commission) rules, by allotting FM Channels 280A at Puhi, Hawaii, and 298C3 at Kekaha, Hawaii, as the communities' first local service. The staff engineering analysis indicates that Channel 280A at Puhi can be allotted consistent with the minimum distance separation requirements of the Commission's rules with a site restriction of 10.8 kilometers (6.7 miles) west of the community at reference coordinates are 21-58-24 NL and 159-29-45 WL and Channel 298C3 at Kekaha can be allotted consistent with the minimum distance separation requirements of the Commission's rules with no site restriction at reference coordinates are 22-02-00 NL and 159-38-00 WL.

An example of DAB+ field measurements showing multipath and interference effects (Photo courtesy WorldDAB)

During 2023, new DAB+ trial services launched in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. To support the spread of the digital radio technology, WorldDAB introduced a new report on suggested guidelines for DAB+ trial services.

The guide covers multiple aspects that have proven effective in previous DAB+ trials including motivation, stakeholder engagement, regulatory and licensing issues, equipment considerations, network and reception testing, and how to conclude field trials. The guide was released during the 2024 ABU Digital Broadcasting Symposium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“When radio stakeholders become interested in establishing DAB+ digital radio, they want to explore DAB+ features and capabilities and understand the process to establish DAB+ as a full-scale national broadcasting system,” stated WorldDAB Project Director Bernie O’Neill. “One of the best ways to undertake these initial steps is to establish an on-air field trial and this new guide is designed to help them successfully take these first steps which inform the final system design.”

The guide describes trials as a key step in laying the groundwork for a future rollout and full implementation of DAB. It also notes the importance of being able to explore different aspects of the technology for different stakeholders, for example, listeners and broadcasters may care more about audio quality while network operators and regulators may focus more on capacity and interference.

The new factsheet, “DAB+ Digital Radio: A Guide to a Successful Field Trial,” joins a number of other free resources offered by WorldDAB to support the launch and operation of DAB+ services, including the 118-page e-book “Establishing DAB Digital Broadcast Radio,” available in both English and French.

The post DAB+ Field Trial Guidance Released appeared first on Radio World.

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On January 22, via Instagram, the management of the venerable Alternative radio brand serving Columbus, Ohio as “CD” informed the public that it would “remain a part of the central Ohio community” in some way — despite the end of its over-the-air broadcasts via an FM translator tied to WXGT-AM.

Now, a local TV station has confirmed the building housing the “CD” radio studios and offices — and the Big Room Bar — is on the market.

WCMH-4, owned by Nexstar Media Group, says real estate agent Doug Tenenbaum put the building on the market at owner Randy Malloy‘s request. Zoning allows for a new building or add-on that can be up to six stories high, and Tenenbaum believes that’s enticing for developers.

And, a new radio station and/or bar could be run out of the facility even after the sale, Tenenbaum told WCMH-4.

Malloy is seeking $2 million for the facility. He acquired it in 2013 for $400,000.

At present, WWCD Radio is internet-only. It originated at 101.1 MHz and later shifted to 102.5 MHz before taking up the FM translator at 92.9 MHz fed by WXGT-AM.

The 92.9 MHz frequency in Columbus is currently home to “93X,” which is operated by a group not affiliated with Malloy.

Earlier this week, the President/CEO of Texas Public Radio (TPR), which operates seven noncommercial radio stations across the San Antonio region, was hospitalized due to complications from colon cancer.

On Thursday, it became known that she has been shifted to Hospice care.

“TPR must share the difficult news that President/CEO Joyce Slocum was hospitalized this weekend due to complications from a recurrence of her colon cancer, and has now transitioned to hospice care,” a statement from TPR and her family reads. “Her family and the TPR staff are grateful for the outpouring of support and love for Joyce.”

TPR’s Board of Directors has named Vice President of Development Rebecca Caven as the  organization’s interim CEO.

Slocum, 66, joined TPR in 2014. Earlier in her career, she served as EVP/Global Legal and Business Affairs and General Counsel for HIT Entertainment, a producer and distributor of high-quality children’s entertainment products. She began her career in the private practice of law, and then served as both a legal and business adviser during 10 years at 7-Eleven, Inc.

The Media Bureau has cancelled a proposed fine handed to the licensee of a low-powered FM station serving the Oregon metropolis that is “dedicated to playing under-heard Rock music from around the globe.”

KVRN-LPFM 101.5, and sibling facility KYQT-LPFM, are known across the Portland, Ore., market as “Cavern.FM.”

KVRN’s facility, with 50 watts, serves a portion of the eastern neighborhoods between Powellhurst-Gilbert and the city of Gresham; KYQT’s signal contour covers Beaverton and areas west of the Oregon Zoo and downtown Portland.

On January 11, KVRN owner Cascade Community Radio was handed a $1,500 fine for its failure to timely file a license renewal application.

Cascade responded, pleading that it is in able to pay such a forfeiture. It supplied documentation illustrating how the $1,500 forfeiture would create a financial hardship for the small community-focused station.

Audio Division Chief Al Shuldiner agreed, and cancelled the fine. Instead, Cascade was admonished for its tardiness.

 

Television is the most important influencer at all stages of the purchase funnel, and holds true across all key age groups and ethnicities.

That’s a key conclusion from the TVB’s just-released 2024 Purchase Funnel Study, conducted by GfK for the association.

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Media industry financial analyst Brian Wieser, today at the helm of his own Madison & Wall advisory firm, has combed through the quarterly results of every major distributor of video content. But, rather than focus on net income and revenue, Wieser examined the total spending by consumers on all video, including traditional pay TV services, physical video media, streaming video and theatrical video.

His conclusion? There’s been a “significant slowdown” from the growth rates seen in 2021 and 2022, making 2023 look a lot like the growth seen across the 2010s.

 

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By Rosemary Ravinal
Special to Radio + Television Business Report

Words have a tremendous impact on this world. Some people say their hearts have been touched by words. Others say their hearts have been broken. For this year’s Friendship Day (also known as Valentine’s Day), I’m inspired to explore how words carry the weight of our emotions and intentions, and how they influence others and build relationships in your work and personal lives.

After I recently gave a talk about the “Power of Words to Drive Innovation” at the Briyah Institute, a friend and communications professional noted the irony behind the saying: “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.”

It’s funny how the 19th-century phase “sticks” in memory. Why does it downplay the impact of verbal abuse?

The proverb conveys the idea that physical injuries caused by objects like sticks and stones can be painful, but verbal insults or negative words cannot cause emotional harm. It’s often used to encourage resilience in the face of verbal or emotional attacks, suggesting that you shouldn’t let hurtful words have a lasting impact on your well-being. It’s just the opposite. We know that slurs, verbal bullying, and name-calling can have a profound effect on a person’s psyche. Words can indeed be more painful than sticks and stones.

Words spoken in anger can inflict deep wounds on relationships. Hurtful words can linger in the minds of others long after the anger has subsided, leaving wounds that never heal. The adage, “Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret,” holds a profound truth. There’s great wisdom in restraint and keeping silent when anger takes hold.

There are approximately 170,000 words in current use in the English language, yet we may use just 20,000 in a lifetime. By expanding your vocabulary, you can find new words to express how you feel and deepen your interpersonal relationships.

Let’s explore the transformative power of words in the context of relationships in all facets of your life.

1. Build bridges of understanding.

Effective communication is the bedrock of any healthy relationship. Words that convey love, support, and understanding can strengthen the bonds between individuals. Expressing appreciation, validation, and encouragement creates an environment where both partners feel seen and valued. The same applies when communicating with your team, partners, associates, bosses, and clients.

2. Use words of affirmation.

The concept of love languages was introduced by Dr. Gary Chapman in his book “The Five Love Languages,” published in 1992. According to Chapman, people express and receive love in different ways, and understanding these “love languages” can improve communication and relationships. Words of Affirmation is one of the love languages. This involves expressing affection through spoken words, compliments, encouragement, and verbal affirmations.

3. Give constructive feedback.

One of my favorite coaching techniques is the feedback sandwich. The idea is to sandwich constructive criticism between positive feedback to make the overall message more palatable and create a more balanced and supportive conversation. Criticism delivered poorly can be a motivation killer. A balance of clear and specific words, encouragement, and respect for the individual can make feedback a positive experience for everyone.

4. Be impeccable with your words.

Being “impeccable with your word” is one of the four agreements outlined in the book “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. It’s a guide to personal freedom and spiritual enlightenment based on ancient Toltec wisdom. In the context of the agreement, being impeccable with your words means using them thoughtfully and responsibly. It means being true to your word. Say only what you mean and avoid using words to speak against yourself or others. Refrain from spreading rumors, gossip, or engaging in negative talk about others. This not only affects the person being talked about but also reflects on your integrity.

 

Words can inspire. Words can destroy. Building awareness of the impact of your words promotes harmony, kindness, and truth. It’s a commitment to mindful and responsible communication, recognizing the power that words hold in shaping your reality and the world around you.

 

Contact Rosemary Ravinal for details on public speaking training programs or one-on-one coaching services in any of the following areas, in both English and Spanish:

• Public Speaking
• Media Readiness
• Presentation Skills

info@rosemaryravinal.com