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Ratings RFP draws strong response.
Cumulus says response has been "extremely encouraging" as more than a dozen research firms have submitted plans for creating a new small-market ratings service. Cumulus announced last month it was dropping Arbitron in markets 100+ as it looked for a non-diary alternative.
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Positive read from Clear Channel investors.
Despite a cut in Bain Capital and THL Partner's offer from $19.5 to $17.9 billion, Clear Channel's stock moved higher today. The agreement between Clear Channel, the equity firms and the banks also solidifies funding. Two-thirds of shareholders will need to give their approval, and an "equity stub" allows them to keep up to 30% of the company could lead to many "yes" votes.
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D&R nabs ESPN stations.
Interep's D&R Radio Sales has signed an agreement with ESPN Radio to become the national rep firm for its stations in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, and Pittsburgh. The stations had been repped by ABC Radio Sales, which was dissolved when Citadel shifted all its stations to Katz.
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WTAM keeps playing ball with The Cavs.
"NewsRadio WTAM 1100" signs a five-year contract extension for the radio broadcast rights to keep airing the Cleveland Cavaliers through the 2012-2013 season. The NBA team's been on WTAM for more than 30 years. Now in his 37th season, Joe Tait will continue to
call games.
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The new timeline: September target.
No date has been set for a required special shareholders' meeting yet, although all parties expect a closing to occur by the end of September. But after months of delays, the players are giving themselves a three-month cushion extending the drop-dead date for the deal to December 31. Read the CC press release HERE.
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NTR expected to grow by 25% this year.
Marketing communications agency TMPG says clients continue to become more appreciative of non-traditional radio advertising. CEO Michael Valentino predicts a “spike” in non-traditional revenue this year as stations become “more aggressive” with their digital campaigns and advertisers “realize the flexibility” of radio.
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A “second generation” of HD2 rolls out.
HD Digital Radio Alliance members are unveiling a series of HD2 format changes aimed at making digital radio multicasts edgier and more creative, a move that it hopes will create buzz and attract listeners. CEO Peter Ferrara says stations must "motivate" listeners to upgrade to HD. In today's Inside Radio, read how some stations are using HD2 to help their main station.
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Alliance cross-promotes HD-only channels.
The ten HD Digital Radio Alliance broadcasters are creating an online station guide to help listeners find all multicast channels in their market – including those from competitors. Alliance EVP Dianne Warren says research shows if people can find out what's on, it'll "inspire them" to buy an HD receiver.
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A conversation with Lou Dobbs.
