dcrtv.com - Mailbag - December 23 to December 31, 2009

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DCRTV Mailbag - December 23 to December 31, 2009

Latest messages listed first.....
\/ December 31 Messages \/

RE: "Oh, that's just icky...".... I have a long running policy of not responding to people who say "icky, iggy, or thingy", but HAPPY NEW YEAR! :-) (12/31/09)

Look at the head of hair on young Norm Lewis, from around the :30 point. (Courtesy: Tom of NW.) (12/31/09)

May Dave and all the mailbaggers (even the fussy ones) have a happy and prosperous new year. Hey, let's party like it's 1949 www.otrcat.com Robert, Arlington (12/31/09)

Chad Dukes without LaVar Burton? That's a show I would watch. What channel is it on? I used to love every year around holiday season when Drab would go to the Holodeck and reenact the story about "the routine". It was an annual release from my lack of need for inspiration, to quote the great, great, Andre Agassi. I like the cut of your jib, Dre. Let's break bread sometime. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/31/09)

Now Michael Calderone is reporting in Politico that “When the Washington Times announced sweeping changes earlier this month that will result in a relaunched newspaper next week, management said that TheConservatives.com, the newish right-wing opinion site considered a key to the paper’s identity, would be expanded in the process. Now it has been killed — along with the paper’s sports section, which will be published for the last time New Year’s Day. But there was no announcement of either development — the sports desk had to send out word about its demise in a Twitter feed.” politico.com (12/31/09)

Washington Post food critic Tom "Sietsema of this" wrote "shame on you if you don't celebrate the occasion with the crab risotto or milk-fed chicken gilded with truffle butter beneath a light coat of crumbs." I'm just sayin'. I'll have mine Quentin Crispy. Shame on those who wish death on Rush, or don't recognize his weight loss. At least you should wish he dies on one of his trips to visit the troops in Afghanistan. Donate to Fisher House much? No, I suppose not. I do, however, want to send over a large plate of lupus with my compliments to Katy Weymouth, Girl Publisher. The Style section is some sort of prom night ladies room disaster. It's as if they tried to make it as disorganized as possible. I do note that DCRTV has not reported Rush's new 400 million contract, including a 100 million signing bonus. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/31/09)

An interview featuring Stan Lebar, the Lunar TV Camera Creator who died this week. (Yes... I know the audio is out-of-sync.) (12/31/09)

thought I'd give you the heads up on more cuts at TWT. Tom Lobianco, a reporter... was one of a few axed this afternoon. (12/31/09)

(Re: I have to admit it but Thank God Chad Dukes is still at WJFK. The Sports Junkies of course have always made my morning great and still do and now Lavar and Dukes make my drive home great.) I like 106.7 The Fan a lot, including Mike Wise Show but can they PLEASE do something about the endless roll of CMP Mobile.com commercials “Hey business owners, consumers are inundated with marketing messages and suffering from marketing fatigue…” (12/31/09)

“Dave, I saw on another website that the TWT-backed political website, TheConservatives.com, has shut down.” Roger that: “Internet Explorer cannot display the webpage” is all one gets at TheConservatives.com. So much for the “ascendency of conservatism that we’ve been hearing about. (12/31/09)

Hey Dave! Just to let you know The "True Oldies" affiliate, 850WREF in Ridgefield,CT. has switched to a new online streamer! The audio quality is just marginal! Sure the stuff they used from Surfernet had the occasional codec problem but it made my Sony Surround sound "rock and roll"! Songs like "Good Times" by Chic would make my speakers "smoke"!!!!! Why would any station want to fix something that doesn't need fixing! Of all the stations that stream Scott Shannon's stations I found 850WREF did the best. Now the audio is marginal and it the sound levels are real low!!!!! I want them to bring back "surfernet!"!!!!!!!!! Dang it! Alvin... Update on 850 WREF's Streaming of the True Oldies Channel! The audio levels have just been adjusted. Now it's as loud as before! Now after running the network spots they run an announcement saying "we are now in a commercial break" when they don't have any of their own spots to run. I want the other streaming service back!!!! Alvin (12/31/09)

Dear Mr. Hughes, I have to agree with you on the Rush Limbaugh issue. I detest the man, but I wouldn't wish death on him. A nice embarrasing end to his career and struggling to find work that would feed his massive ego would be far more amusing. And I'm kind of disappointed in Bob Carpenter being back. He can call a good game and you can do worse in the play-by-play department, but he's too much of a homer. His bias against opposing teams and fans can muddle his otherwise skillful abilities. Sincerely, James (12/31/09)

Dave, I saw on another website that the TWT-backed political website, TheConservatives.com, has shut down. Howie (12/31/09)

How good was the Lavar Arrington Show on Monday with out him? Chad and Drab sounded like a well informed professional duo. I am dreading today! Lavar without Chad...... Maybe Drab can hold him up. (12/31/09)

(QUOTE) Sinclair's WNUV CW 54 is still ... out of sync ... When running 720p video, the station is virtually unwatchable unless you're Michael J. Fox. (END QUOTE) Oh, that's just icky... (12/31/09)

From The Horse’s Mouth: On LOCAL WASHINGTON RADIO STATION WMAL’s opening for “Rush Limbaugh Show” for Thursday, December 31st, guest host Walter Williams reports that Rush is “continues to rest”, had a “comfortable night” and is getting “good medical attention”. Williams says Rush will have a “complete” examination (they will find that he has a big heart, but we already knew that) and that listeners can get updates at Rush’s web site. Sorry to disappoint you David Corn that Rush is doing well, but I’m disappointed, however, in you my old friend for this tone: www.politico.com... www.mediabistro.com Mother Jones Washington Editor David Corn reacted to Henry's play-by-play of news regarding Limbaugh, writing, "Any other tweets coming in on Rush other than those from Ed Henry?" At another point, he appeared to be tweaking the CNN White House correspondent, asking,"Where's Ed Henry? It's been 15 minutes since he's Twittered." Speak of the devil. In chimed Henry with another Limbaugh report. Corn closed the evening off with this: "Signing off for the evening. Good luck, Ed Henry. Rush, you've slimed me in the past. But, I suppose, good luck to you, too." (12/31/09)

Dave's response: Ah, "a big heart," or heart enlargement, is a sign of serious heart disease. Not a good thing. Oh, wouldn't it be great if Obama, who is also vacationing in Hawaii, paid the laid-up Limbaugh a visit. That'd be kinda cool, in fact.....

END OF YEAR UPDATE: Sinclair's WNUV CW 54 is still skipping out of sync audio/video now for over 6 months running. Their SD signal is fine and their HD signal is fine too when not running 720p programming. When running 720p video, the station is virtually unwatchable unless you're Michael J. Fox. Basically, the primetime CW lineup is unwatchable in HD or over the air. At what point does the FCC fine them and how can I complain? (12/31/09)

Dave, I just read Bob Carpenter’s blog on MASN’s website, and he indicated that he just signed a new contract a few weeks ago to keep calling the Nats games. Thanks! Dave (12/31/09)

Hey Paul, just wanted to let you know that we've added some new items to our show Facebook page. Be sure to go check those out! - John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR (12/31/09)

"...but it is when this website has posted half a dozen or so stories through the year that the company was teetering on bankruptcy when in reality it was just wishful thinking..." No, it was reporting based on the information available at the time. I've read plenty of bad news here about stations/persons I like, and I never think Dave has "an agenda". Howie (12/31/09)

RE: Rush - Must be scary getting sick in a foreign country... I am pretty sure Hawaii is part of the "57" United States (according to Obama). Unfortunately this Obama gaffe did not make the list of MSNBC's Top Political Lines of the Decade (See Dave, I made it media related!!!) msnbc.com (12/31/09)

What may be especially interesting concerning the timing of Rush’s hospitalization (even though it’s a total coincidence) is that Clear Channel is set to launch new “Rush Radio” FM stations in Raleigh/Durham and neighboring Greensboro/Winston-Salem (both top-50 markets) over the holiday weekend. (In both cases, CC decided several months ago to not renew its deals with the show’s long-time AM affiliates, which are owned by the regional company Curtis Media.) Also, to answer the person who was wondering about “Strictly Global”, the schedule on the MHz site suggests that it’ll be back starting this Friday night (New Year’s Day). As always, thanks! EJM (12/31/09)

No Howie, its not necessary news when someone stays a float and runs a business through tough times...but it is when this website has posted half a dozen or so stories through the year that the company was teetering on bankruptcy when in reality it was just wishful thinking. Another bad news story that everyone wanted to have happen...sort of like the Rush story. Just quoting the NY Post or Times of course...no reason to hold anyone accountable other than the source, right? (12/31/09)

RE: Rush - Must be scary getting sick in a foreign country... (12/31/09)

Evidently, Fox 45 Baltimore intends to conduct its nightly interviews with the rapidly disintegrating Washington Times about the paper's next day coverage if so much as a custodian is left to be interviewed. Bob A. in Pikesville, MD. (12/31/09)

Wow Rush, THAT's the mysterious "friend" President O'Bama left the golf course abruptly to see? Who woulda thunk it? AHAHAHAHAha! :-) (12/31/09)

Note to :) : It isn't exactly news when a company DOESN'T go bankrupt. I guess Dave was supposed to put a big banner on the site, "CC NOT BANKRUPT TODAY!" Why, it must be a lefty cconspiracy not to mention it constantly! BTW, I'm not going bankrupt today, either. So, both me and CC are having a much better 2009 than TWT. Howie (12/31/09)

While everyone is gleefully jumping up and down on Limbaughs coffin...or at least his chest...comes this from RBR www.rbr.com. RBR-TVBR observation: Whatever else you might say about the people at Clear Channel HQ in San Antonio, they certainly do know their way around Wall Street. Any speculation that CCU would be following Citadel Broadcasting into Chapter 11 is now pretty much dead. I didn't see this reported on DCRTV, did I miss it? :) (12/31/09)

Rush's ER doctor did a pretty thorough examination on him following his health scare. The doc handed Rush a flask and said, "Drink this down in one fast gulp." So Rush did, gagged and nearly threw up. "What the hell was in that stuff, doc?" And the physician answered, "It was bullshit; you were down a quart." (12/31/09)

Excerpts from my post of March 1st, 2009 to DCRTV: "For the first time yesterday, I actually began to feel sorry for...Rush Limbaugh. One couldn't help but notice that Limbaugh appeared to weigh more than 300 pounds....if no action is taken, it's unlikely he'll make it to 65." Eating your radio sponsor's mammoth steaks, losing and gaining 50 or more pounds each year, smoking ten cigars a day, drinking hard liquor, abusing prescription drugs and combining that with a stressful lifestyle (three marriages and about to go for number four) is a recipe for an early demise. It's amazing and sad that so many people who have the money and means to prevent this, just jump off the cliff anyway. Happy New Year, everyone. ACH (12/31/09)

While I'm repulsed by the anti-intellectual demagoguery practiced by Limbaugh and his colleagues, I'm equally repulsed by the claim that Limbaugh's heart troubles are karmic justice. That's almost like Falwell and Robertson's hateful "You made this happen" rant after 9/11. (12/31/09)

Dave's response: While I've never been a fan of Limbaugh, I've never wished anything as nasty as a painful death on him. No, I'd be satisfied with something just really embarrassing like a giant boil on the end of his nose or maybe his voice getting an octave higher, and going somewhat girly. Maybe an attack of the farts during one of his shows. Or getting caught by TMZ in bed with Matt Drudge.....

James, I couldn't have said it any better! Exception:(Not mine) but very clever: "Puke away Bucko" (See, the two capital letters are his initials! How remarkably clever!)BTW, you won't see any other names. Welcome to my world?????? PLB (12/31/09)

I knew it had to happen, but I'm sorry to see WTRI will be back on the air. I was enjoying picking up WWKB most of the day. Hopefully, the programming will be good for the locals. Howie (12/31/09)

Dave's response: It'll always be WKBW to me.....

Re: "If Rush Limbaugh succumbs to heart disease, he'll get exactly as good as he gave." Wow, so Rush Limbaugh deserves DEATH for his opinion and efforts to entertain his audience? Wow. Can't imagine what folks like Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, Ted Kennedy (who actually killed someone) deserve then since they have/had the power to implement their twisted world view.... Seriously, are we really at a point where we wish DEATH on people we disagree with? A very sad state. And Collings/PLB, please get in a room together or knock it off. PLB, it's not worth your time as you have nothing to prove; Collings, you're coming across as a sniveling, self-important wannabe who has way too much time to over-intellectualize and nit-pick. And for the record, I enjoy satcasts, broadcasts and webcasts. Bob in Forest Hill (12/31/09)

Joe K… Thanks for the great pictures of your Dad’s last morning at NPR. Carl Kassell is one of the best and his voice will be missed. As a freshman at UNC in Chapel Hill the first thing I heard was that its radio station, WUNC, was put on the air by your Dad and one of the Kuralt brothers. The university bought a Gates “Yard” console for the station (so named because it was three feet wide and only inches high… a very small board). Carl’s picture hung on the wall in that dark basement along with that of Charles Kuralt and Ben Mast. From its humble origins in the damp musty basement of Swain Hall as a student project, WUNC has grown into a powerful state-wide radio and television network. Carl is fondly remembered at WUNC although venerable Swain Hall is all but gone as a radio-TV center along with Carolina’s degree in Radio, Television and Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. Tom Gauger (12/31/09)

(From DCRV's Classified Ads:) Assistant Station Manager/Program Director - Local, community-minded station in search of individual for Assistant Manager/Program Director position. Individual will host morning show, conduct interviews, be responsible for supervising and scheduling staff, in-person appearances, production, planning of promotions, etc. Applicant must have previous radio department managing experience and be familiar with western suburban Baltimore metro market area. Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits. Email resume, air check and salary requirements to jobs@wttr.com. EOE M/F (12/31/09)

(regarding a previous post) "Dave I'm sure you've seen this: Rush in hospital. Can't wait to see the classy comments about him in this forum." I guess it's true: If you live long enough, you'll get to see just about everything. Now the right wing whackjobs are lecturing people on "class". If Rush Limbaugh succumbs to heart disease, he'll get exactly as good as he gave. If his dittoheads don't like it, that's just too goddamned bad! The fat bastard should've figured on the 'what-goes-around-comes-around' factor during all the years he was running his mouth and taking great delight in bashing people. He can roast in Hell forever, for all I care! (12/31/09)

A wish for a splendid New Year comes from my heart to all (yes, ALL) of my fellow "Mailbaggers" despite this recent wave of juvenile bickering. B/T/W, my Dad can beat up your Dad! Have fun everyone, Rusty Gibson WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/31/09)

Dear Mr. Collings, Mr. Bicknell is correct in stating "YOU DON'T GET IT". Who are you to question Mr. Bicknell? This Mailbag does not exist for you to take shots at a man with a longer resume than you. To use a cliche, it is Mr. Bicknell's world and we're just living in it. To use a professional wrestling reference (Which I'm sure you watch, Mr. Collings), you have spit in the face of the veteran grappler/reigning champion when you refused Mr. Bicknell's apology. As such, you garnered the wrath of the crowd. As you bask in the attention of the masses via their catcalls, you open yourself to attacks from the senior Bicknell as he reaches into his tights (I'm guessing a singlet with matching headgear) for a set of brass knuckles or perhaps a folding chair conveniently left under the ring apron. Perhaps you did not read an earlier post of mine where I stated that this Mailbag exists for Mr. Bicknell. When Mr. Bicknell sends in an anonymous post to Dave asking for the feuding to stop, and Dave so pleads publicly, you should do so. And when Mr. Bicknell breaks that silence between the two of you by taking shots at you, you are not suppose to respond. This is Mr. Bicknell's forum. He expects you to take snide criticism from him without directing any at him. I know this is hard for you to wrap your head around, Mr. Collings, but Mr. Bicknell is not to be questioned. When he says that he "will not post again on this subject" and continues to do so, you are not to point out that contradiction. When he notes in an interview that "talk is boring" and then says that he has no problem with all the other programs on your station (Which includes talk shows) or has hosted a talk show himself, that makes perfect sense to everyone else here that knows their place. Get in line, Mr. Collings. There is nothing wrong with Mr. Bicknell (Under one of his many nom de plumes (Look it up)) stating things like "You are a WEB announcer with an audience of family and friends only…get it WEB," or "As for relavency…webtalk….not radio…webtalk," then later talks about that same forum with comments like "..I too am a webber and soon will have four radio stations I'm WEBBING on," "For God's sake most of the FM and AM stations are webbing..it's a way of life," or giving us definitions of "webbers" that shift like sand dunes or snow (I would guess that Mr. Bicknell's dictionary would come with hourly updates), you are not to find anything unusual about that. It is not your role to question the almighty Bicknell. When you wake up and read this, Mr. Collings, ask yourself how you can make Mr. Bicknell's life better. That is why you are here on Earth. Until you have a resume as lenghty as Mr. Bicknell's or get paid as lavishly as this Mailbag's Grand Leader, you have no right to speak your mind. The world revolves around Mr. Bicknell. Also referencing a previous post, I guess we can add "LOL", "No Identification necessary", "No name necessary!", and (If memory serves) "Puke away Bucko" (See, the two capital letters are his initials! How remarkably clever!) as other identities for Mr. Bicknell. If this were a drinking game, he'd have us hammered before the ball dropped in Times Square. Sincerely, James or No Emoticons Necessary. (12/31/09)

Let the hater’s speculation/celebration begin: “Report: Rush Limbaugh taken to Hawaii hospital. HONOLULU (AP) - Conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh was taken to a hospital with chest pains on Wednesday, a Honolulu television station reported. Paramedics responded to a call at 2:41 p.m. from the Kahala Hotel and Resort where Limbaugh is vacationing, KITV reported. The station, citing unnamed sources, said the 58-year-old Limbaugh was taken to The Queens Medical Center in serious condition.” Sound’s like Walter Williamns will be subbing next week as well. (12/31/09)

Dave's response: Hmmm. He and Obama pick the same place to vacation.....

Just heard on the news that Rush Limbaugh was admitted to a hospital in Hawaii with chest pains. (12/31/09)

Dave I'm sure you've seen this: Rush in hospital www.politico.com... Can't wait to see the classy comments about him in this forum. (12/31/09)

Dave, Obviously, you have to read the mailbag submissions. Since you do, can you sort them? How about a new mailbag called "Playpen" so you can cordon off all the assinine messages from...well, you know which ones. Or, how about titling the messages with one word like "Tech" or "Ratings" or "Business" or "Silvie" so I don't waste my time on items that I have no interest in. Thanks and have the greatest New Year Ever! John (12/31/09)

Thank you Mr.Santo (whom I don't know) for the kind words. It's GRIFFITHS, btw. I am, indeed launching a new web site- www.TommyGriffiths.com, which should be up and cranking by New Year's Day. Look for my ad on DCRTV. It is not a Podcast, but a collection of my material from over the years. I am actively seeking to host a large market morning show with the help of my agent, yet the process has been very slow. A few opportunities have presented themselves, and hopefully after the 1st of the year things will start popping. Sincerely, Tommy Griffiths. A quick aside- I have followed this site over the last few months and the vicious attacks and vituperative characterizations of local media personalities are uncalled for, unnecessary, and FUNNY AS SH*T! Keep it up. Tommy Griffiths (12/31/09)

"Kind of nasty for channel 9 to treat her (Kim Martucci) so bad right when she got married and at Christmas time too!" Anybody at 9 will tell you that firing employees near Christmas is an annual tradition, least as long as Pat'n'Al are running the 'show'... (12/31/09)

Dave's response: Isn't today her birthday?

If the fat bastard croaks, it wouldn't bother me! A Honolulu television station, KITV,reported that the conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh was taken to a Hawaii hospital Wednesday with chest pains. nytimes.com (12/31/09)

/\ December 31 Messages /\

\/ December 30 Messages \/

To the gentleman responding to the response of the K&R show. Did you REALLY get all of that out of my response to you? You may need another hobby, because analyzing isn’t for you. You reply shows you haven’t heard our show. We usually run three hours on a good day, but mostly because of Wizards game 1.5 to 2 hours. In radio, we tend to talk “Hot Topics” and if you think Im going to give the listeners something other than GOOD radio while Im on for that little bit of time we are on the air; you sir would be mistaken. Ex. Bring up Nats. Phone lines are dead. Bring up Wiz. Phone lines are dead. Bring up DC United and the phone lines light up with people telling us to stop talking DC United. Sir I invite you to really listen, because if YOU would like to discuss topics YOU sir may call in and I will personally stop talking about whatever and address the Nats and DC United. As for Hockey. Re-Read good man. I am the Hockey Expert and we do talk Caps. . Rock P.S. Thanks for listening and you are probably right Sir. We probably do suck. Just not as bad as 980…when you can hear it. (CK is going to kick my ass for this.) (12/30/09)

Dave… Sorry to have to correct your math, but even with the departure of Kim Martucci from WUSA, there’s been only one “weather personality” left at that station since Tony Pann left: Howard Bernstein. Topper Shutt should be honest enough (and thankful) to realize that if Gannett had offered Doug Hill the bucks he’s worth, Topper likely wouldn’t be “Chief Meteorologist” at WUSA. Ahhh… Gannett and their meteorologists! If Cosmos had only offered Jim Gandy what he was worth (instead of Gannett), not only would Angie Goff likely still be commuting to 1111 Bull Street (Home of the “Lorena Bobbitt Memorial Tower”), but WUSA’s weather presentations might’ve looked much better. More “major market”, if you will. After all, isn’t Columbia, SC the 79th market while D.C. is the 9th market? By comparison, before landing at WRC, didn’t Bob Ryan previously work at WNBC, in market #1? Howard Bernstein is WUSA’s best hope to take that station back to major market status. That is, unless he gets hired away by either WTTG, WJLA, or WRC as Gannett’s corporate ship has the ever re-arranging deck chairs still approaching the waterline. (12/30/09)

I saw on your site that Tommy Griffith who left Tommy and Rumble's Show in Hampton Roads is starting a web site. Is he podcasting? He's as talented and even more talented than most of the people on the air in DC. Has he quit broadcasting? If not, he should be on the radio here (DC). Brian Santo, Virginia Beach/Woodbridge monthly commuter (12/30/09)

On the subs: IMHO the only good subs are: for Hannity and Levin: Mark Simone (why he doesn't have his own national show is beyond me) and of course the beloved Chris Plante. Tom Marr makes me want to stick a screwdriver in my ears to make the noise stop. The only Rush subs worth a sh#t are former DC'er Mark Davis and Walter Williams. I can't stand Mark Stein or Jason whomever out of MN. I also agree about Hannity whoring his shows and concerts. He has some good interviews but him alone makes me flip to Jerry Doyle. Doyle's actually very good if you give him half a chance. (12/30/09)

Dave I don't understand how 1580 AM runs the top of hour news from washington times Radio in fact when it goes local at 5 past or whatever the reporter is still from times radio, Apparently WTNT doesn't care about it or doesn't have a solid exclusive agreement. Dave you should investigate. John T. Henneman (12/30/09)

Dave's response: There are two separate deals. WTNT 570 carries the Washington Times' morning show. And WHFS 1580 carries the Times' hourly newscasts.....

(From DCRTV's Classified Ads:) Effective: 12/30/2009 - Hiring Manager: Polly Sherard - ABC 7-TV/WJLA in Washington DC has an opening for an experienced Account Executive. New direct business development while juggling multiple sales initiatives must be your strength. The right candidate will bring strong communication and presentation skills, experience in revenue development for the internet, and the personal drive and passion to be #1. We'll provide all the tools you need to become a sales star. A minimum of 2 years successful television sales experience is required. Send cover letter and resume to HR@wjla.com No Phone Calls Please! (12/30/09)

Has Frederick Thomas/MHZ canned the music video show Strictly Global? Don't think it's been on lately Friday nor Saturday nights? Is it possible that channel 9 might show the door to Topper and Howie too and bring in cheaper young'uns? And man how yeller can that sport's gal's hair be? happy news year everybody www.youtube.com (12/30/09)

I have to admit it but Thank God Chad Dukes is still at WJFK. The Sports Junkies of course have always made my morning great and still do and now Lavar and Dukes make my drive home great. James for Centreville (12/30/09)

RE: "Otherwise: stick with Rush, Laura and Mark: good people with great subs." Laura and the words good people do not belong in the same sentence. Now, Mark Stein (sp?) hosting for Rush was great. As for Sean, all he does is plug his tv show, his concerts and ramble....he does not deserve pm drive, if you ask me. (12/30/09)

Thanks for checking out our show Facebook page, Paul! Be sure to check back from time to time for updates! It warms my heart to know that you're so rattled by me that you're scouring the internet for dirt. Happy hunting! - John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR (12/30/09)

I'd just like to point out ... looking pretty good over here. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/30/09)

It's Stephen, dickhead. Not Stephan, not John. (12/30/09)

Dave, Happy New Year to you....and thank you for continuing to provide great information about the local broadcast community. It's good reading for me each and every day. Best to you, Bob (12/30/09)

Dave's response: Thanks Bob!

RE: WTRI - Gentleman don't you think your laims to 1520's coverage area are a little exaggerated? Case in point according to radio-locator.com your city grade signal doesn't extend as far east as Reston, VA. Given that a station like that on a 4 digit frequency it isn't gonna be generally received outside your city grade coverage untill after 8:30am. Even starting around 2 hours before local sunset your station will not be too audible in areas outside your city grade coverage. Inside the city of Washington the only listeners that will want to tune you in will be die hard Dxer's using Select Antenna boosters. Good luck! (12/30/09)

*Stephan, try signing your real name. Or, how about an email address John? (So few sign their real names, mine is Glib) (12/30/09)

Just some stirring blog posts about our friend Mr. Collings: 1-The reviews for The Other Guys Show are in - "Classless, totally CLASSLESS 2-John would kill for 15 listeners, and he knows where you live. 3-If you don't listen to us, then how do you know what we're saying about you? This is really classy WEBBING??? (12/30/09)

To the "friend" of PLB...If you aren't brave enough to sign your long, nonsensical post...Then everything you've said means absolutely nothing. Keep that in mind next time you feel the need to help a sinking "friend". *Stephen in Reston (12/30/09)

WTHU should just gobble up WCTN 950 to into their news combo too John T. Henneman (12/30/09)

Dave's response: WTHU is a station that licenses its radio shows for the Frederick market. With the potential 1520 acquisition, they'll be reaching a chunk of the Washington radio market, too. I can't imagine that WTNT is going to sit still and let a Frederick station air the Washington Times morning show on its "turf".....

Dear Santa, Will you bring me Fox5's Sara Simmons next year for Christmas? HOT woman. Paul (12/30/09)

While we're at it, here's the young, dapper Carl Kasell at WAVA. (12/30/09)

Dave, I totally agree with you. You`re absolutely right. Why do you think it was that Management at Channel 9 WUSA didn`t renew Kim Martucci`s contact? Was it for financial reasons? Are they trying to save money by replacing her with someone they can pay less money to? Is that their angle? I just don`t understand it. I was stunned when I found out. I think it`s a terrible mistake for them to release Kim Martucci. Kim Martucci is one of the best employees they have ever had in my opinion. Thank You Dave for all the time and hard work you put into dcrtv.com. It`s one of my favorite sites on the internet. Regards, Chris in Reston (12/30/09)

Dave's response: I think that's all it was - a budget cut. Rather than have four personalities on 9's weather staff (Tony, Topper, Howard, and Kim), two'll be just fine (Topper and Howard).....

Chad Dukes didn't go behind fucking Oscar Santana's back in attempts to further his career at the expense of the Big O. Think about it numb nuts, do you really believe the Big O was unaware of the station flip that was hovering over their heads since the moment they came back to Fairfax? Of course he was, they both were! Oscar was fired and Chad was kept around because Dukes knows about sports and Oscar does not. It is as simple as that. And I know for a fact that Oscar was aware of the situation and what Chad was going to do once the station flipped because they fucking talked about it ON AIR for an entire week before JFK became The Fan. Chad and LaVar were discussing the topic of Jerry Gray interviewing for Jim Zorn's position behind his back, which is nothing like what happened with Chad and Oscar. If WJFK remained a "guy talk" station and Chad interviewed for another talk show without Oscar even knowing about it.....then maybe you'd have a point. You're a fucking moron for comparing the two and quite frankly it's people with mentalities like yourself that are killing talk radio nationwide. (12/30/09)

(regarding a previous post) "Did anybody notice NPR's retiring news anchor Carl Kassel was the voiceover announcer for the Kennedy Center Honors broadcast on CBS Tuesday night?" It was driving me crazy! I recognized the voice and knew that I knew it, but I just could not place it. Had his name not appeared in the credits at the end of the show, I probably would have asked the Mailbaggers about who it was. (12/30/09)

I wouldn't count on THU simulcasting on TRI. (12/30/09)

Coming soon to a TV near you, 3D broadcasts! It's in the Examiner: www.examiner.com (12/30/09)

From www.wthu.org - "BIG NEWS COMING!!!!!! WTHU HAS AN EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT JUST OVER THE HORIZON!!! WE WILL BE EXPANDING OUR SIGNAL TO INCLUDE WTRI 1520 AM IN BRUNSWICK MD WITH A WHOPPING 17,000 WATT SIGNAL THAT WILL BROADCAST TO ALL OF CENTRAL MARYLAND, NORTHERN VA., THE PANHANDLE OF WVA. & SOUTH CENTRAL PA. STAY TUNED FOR OUR EXCITING NEW YEAR PROGRAM LAUNCH AND ADDITION OF OUR NEW STATION - MONDAY JANUARY 5, 2010" (12/30/09)

Nothing says Merry Christmas & Happy New Year better than selling a radio station to yourself and getting assigned an FCC license fcc.gov... fcc.gov... for a radio station you never intend to build transmitting facilities for (for 10 YEARS RUNNING!). Happy New Year WAMS 1600 AM Dover and WXXY Broadcasting, ooops, now K5 Broadcasting. Don't worry, the FCC looks forward to getting your new Special Temporary Authority request from your new phony company to broadcast from a chicken shack with all the joy of not broadcasting to your licensed coverage area has to offer and promise you another STA gift soon. Peace and be well. -- Signed lovingly, Your diligent at the watch FCC & DCRTV Tech Guru Dave Loudin. :-) (12/30/09)

Dear Dave: To Rusty Gibson, the answer is "yes!" Carl Kasell is my Dad, who gave his last newscast today. Dave, I've included a few pics from this morning at the NPR studios, including the big celebration afterwards. Lots of current and former NPR employees there, including my good friend Max from Mild Western Arlington County. Also heard the feature on him on this morning's "Morning Edition," including the radio jingle for his morning program in our hometown radio station WGBR (one of the first memories that I have). For someone who retired, he'll still be busy. My Dad will be a goodwill ambassador for NPR, will still appear on "Wait, Wait...", and was heard last night as the announcer for the Kennedy Center Honors that was broadcast on CBS. And, yes, he was the house announcer: for the past three years he has performed that duty at the Kennedy Center dressed up in black tie. The commercial spots you heard were recorded afterwards in a studio. Needless to say our family is very happy for and proud of him and everything he's done. This is something he very much has earned. Again, Dave, a great site! Happy New Year everybody! Sincerely, Joe Kasell (12/30/09)

The situation between Fox and Time-Warner makes me think of model railroading on “The Addams Family”: A train wreck waiting to happen. This time, it’s Fox which stands to lose. And, Rupert strikes me as a very poor, sore, and indeed vindictive loser. However, there’s always a chance that the Fox O&O’s where T-W has systems have more reliable reception than WTTG does locally. (Proving that UHF is not the universal panacea for the ills of ATSC.) and viewership will not be lost. Or, perhaps Fox will subsidize antenna installations (and I don’t mean rabbit ears or loops) in T-W areas as an effort at revenge? Who knows, this could all turn out to be more intelligent entertainment than anything currently available on Fox! -Unsigned Corporate Suit (12/30/09)

On the Big Lavar and Dukes Show I heard Chad talking about the coach interviews and how it's back stabbing and would anyone want to work with a guy who went behind his colleagues back to keep a job in this economy...hm Chad haven't you done this to Oscar twice in your career, (loosely termed)? Once to work with Ed Norris, and now Lavar? Sure I'm listening because I like Lavar, but Chad you are a scumbag, leech, wannabe. I hope second fiddle is all you ever hope to be because you're never going any further up the ladder. (12/30/09)

Long-time reader. First-time contributor. This Bicknell-Collings feud is going too far. It’s getting boring and petty and I’m tired of seeing space wasted on this forum. It appears to me that this whole thing started with Collings misinterpreting (or taking out of context) Paul’s comments, for Tom Gavin (and, subsequently, for Rusty), concerning webcasting. Paul Bicknell is a legend in this market. As Davy Jones, he was part of ,what I’m sure that most of us will concede was, the golden age of Top 40 radio. Music was big, and so were the DJs. But they weren’t just “disc jockeys”, in the original sense of the term. They were entertainers. They injected enthusiasm and a “big”, upbeat sound that seemed “larger than life”. In fact, they provided the soundtrack for some of the best times of our lives. Paul is a pro and has certain standards, and may be concerned that live personality radio no longer exists in that same sense. The talent just isn’t there. In the ‘60s, you had to be the cream of the crop to make it on the air. Now, with the web, anybody can do a show. But is that, necessarily, a bad thing? I’ve known Paul for 35 years. I happen to know that he encourages webcasting as a leading edge medium, not only for veteran broadcasters but, for those, who might not otherwise, have a forum to express themselves. As Paul says, webcasting has become in integral part of the business. In no way, when Paul coined the term "WEBBERS", did he infer anything derogatory, If it currently has any negative connotation, it’s only because of the deprecation that Collings has attached to it. When Collings callously insulted one of these WEBBERS, with a childish comment, Paul took offense and posted his thoughts on it, and it has snowballed from there. Collings clearly came out with a chip on his shoulder and guns blazing, accusing Paul of “having disdain for the next generation of broadcasters”. From experience, I can tell you that that couldn’t be further from the truth. Paul is always eager with advice and willing to take someone “under his wing” and mentor him or her. Collings is clearly disrespectful of a man who helped build this market. But did Paul overreact? Perhaps, but as Collings has continued to drag this thread through the past few weeks, he has painted a picture of Paul that is just not fair or accurate.. Paul’s mistake was to even acknowledge Collings, respond to him (and his insecurities), and sink to his level. Collings just needs to move on and take care of his own business. Paul offered a public apology for his part, but Collings will only accept it conditionally. And an apology is generally an act of humility. How does that translate to being pompous, in Collings’ mind? Who is John Collings? When (and if) he ever puts together anything that closely resembles the body of work that Paul has, then he can talk. Paul paid his dues. Paul doesn’t promote himself as a “legend”, as Collings purports. He doesn’t have to. (12/30/09)

Dave is NPR's Chris Kasell related to our long time fellow "MailBagger Joe Kasell? Rusty Gibson (12/30/09)

Happy Holiday's!!! There will be more lacrosse than ever offered this season on the ESPN family of networks with a heavy dose of local teams from the Baltimore area, Maryland, Georgetown and Virginia. WMAR will again work with ESPN to cover a number of big games with the Baltimore area teams. www.washingtonexaminer.com... Cheers, Jim (12/30/09)

To: John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR. Unlike many other readers of DCRTV, I haven't really tired of reading your posts. You have as much right as PLB (who has a really great resume and track record) to have an opinion about webcasting. I research trends, and the outlook facing free radio, webcasting, and free TV is bleak. I looked on the WEBR website and found your show, but it is not on at a good time for me to click-in. Just for the sake of curiosity for me and many DCRTV readers, could you post a short MP3? I couldn't find a description of the format of your show on the WEBR site. I wish you and Paul would make-up, and have a useful discussion about webcasting. Paul, like many of us who have supported our families by broadcasting, tend to look down on webcasting as a medium for a professional to make money. There are, of course, many reasons to work free. Ed Graham (12/30/09)

The response on the Kevin and Rock show demonstrates what is wrong with the mindset of all too many sports talk show hosts in this market. They don't talk Nats because they were bad last season and are not playing right now (never mind all the player moves they are making). They don't talk Wiz because they have nothing to add and the team is bad. They claim to talk Caps but one of the hosts apparently knows nothing about hockey. DC United is beneath them, apparently. Of course, the fact that the Redskins suck doesn't stop them from talking about the Skins. What we are left with is a show that specializes in Redskins talk and leaves fans of all the other local sports out. Sound familiar? (12/30/09)

Marsha, Marsha, Marsha: Silvie, Silvie, Silvie. What DO you do when your icons are out (maybe actually spend time with your dozen or so kids you Octomom, you)? You could just listen to poor Chris Plante predictably scream at each and every fool who calls with any kind of accent (funny but sad) just for the hell of it or you could wise up and listen to some of the very good guest hosts subbing for Rush, Laura, and Levin. Why you would bother to listen to that self-loathing Jew Savage is beyond me: he’s a creep, just like Bill O’Smelly. As for Sean: he’s a bit too much the prima donna, but acceptable. Otherwise: stick with Rush, Laura and Mark: good people with great subs. (12/30/09)

The demise of the Wash Times Sports section is a very bad thing.. It was a better sports section than the Post in many ways, with experience reporters and columnists. And much better coverage of teams like the Nats, Caps and Wizards, in my view. Putting aside sports, I hope the Times continues in some fashion as an alternative news source in this city. You don't have to agree with a newspaper's editorials all the time to regard it is a positive that those views are expressed. DC as a one newspaper town would be terrible and, frankly, the Post may not be that far behind the Times.................... (12/30/09)

Dave, Incredible show last night on Shirlington's WETA of a program from Arlington's PBS, produced by Boston's WGBH. (Gosh, attribution is getting complicated around here.) It was the big 2 hour "What Darwin Didn't Know." Modern scientific advances just add more and more evidence to prove his theories. The photography and graphics were excellent. It is tough to provide pictures for a story like this. The animation of the double helix got a little repetitive but, overall, the storytelling was top-notch! When it comes around again, don't miss it! John (12/30/09)

PLB/John Collings: Have either of you seeked on-air employment with "Radio Disney"? Your respective levels of maturity, as exhibited on this forum, would indicate that each of you would seem to be great for the target audience of that network. (12/30/09)

RE: WAGE... Since they are both owned by the same people (& there were recent FCC apps to make their ownership identical), I'm still left scratching my head as to why WBIS 1190 is still on the air at very low power, yet the more powerful 5000 watt WAGE 1200 is dark. And before someone says WBIS is a 10,000 watt station, let me remind, WBIS has no permanent transmitter site and hasn't for years. They're operating at low power from another station's tower. I can barely get WBIS in Baltimore anymore. I just can't figure out the economics of taking WAGE dark instead of WBIS. WAGE has a transmitter site. The only thing I can think is that possibly that land has been put up for sale in order to finance the project? Btw, here's WAGE's proposed site near Redskins Park, it looks like the land has been cleared and is ready to go (click on the satellite and zoom in) maps.google.com... They are telling the FCC that zoning is still the holdup, but I suspect money is more the issue in reality. (12/30/09)

From a B/W post: "And the worst of the worst, Washington's monopoly traffic info provider, Metro Traffic." That's not true. There are three competing traffic providers: Metro, Clear Channel's Total Traffic and Traffic.com. The latter two are investing heavily in technology and serve many clients other than radio and TV stations. Then there's WTOP's Bob Marbourg, possibly the best traffic reporter in town, still working directly for and at WTOP. (12/30/09)

4 Leaving 4, Including Crenshaw's Producer - Resignations or layoffs? (12/30/09)

FOX5 has chosen to have Tony Perkins and Gurvir anchor the 9am broadcast..Talk about a train wreck..With all due respect, Gurvir is NOT good at doing ad lib and her interview skills are lacking significantly..And cardboard Perkins just adds to the comedy of errors.. (12/30/09)

I would also suggest WAGE AM 1200 going silent as a top local radio news stories of the year. On August 2, 2009, WAGE fell silent due to "tough economic conditions" and an ongoing attempt to move the station to AM 1190 and up the power to 50,000 watts. The station first went on the air in 1958. While the station covered local news throughout its history, the music format changed changed over the years, going from classical music, to easy listening music, to country, to light rock and pop. It switched to syndicated programming in 2007 just two years after being purchased by New World Radio, Inc. (12/30/09)

Dave's response: Good point. However, it's AM. If almost nobody listens to AM, at least in the DC market, does it really matter?

Let's not weep for Kim Martucci. Now she's free to take that tryout with the Mystics. The power forward slot is open--go Kim! ACH (12/30/09)

Dave's response: Or do a screen test for "Avatar 2".....

1050 AM: pls update your traffic report. At 7:30 this morning the report stated "this evening". (12/30/09)

To the gentlemen who posted: (“With all due respect to the Kevin and Rock show promo, I tuned in a few times and it IS the SOS. Maximum Redskins and little or no Caps, Nats, Wiz, DC United. You can keep it. (12/29/09)”) I figured I’d respond in kind as I noticed not many Radio folks do: The Nats? It’s Football Season & What was their Record again? The Wiz? We tend to come on after games their post game, so what really can we add to a team doing so poorly that you don’t already know? The Caps? You’d be wrong. We talk Caps whenever possible. In fact I know more about the Caps than my partner AND IM THE BLACK GUY. Finally The United. Really? I had to chuckle when I read that. You sound like a Producer we know (is that you). If you have listened a few times, I doubt you listened from opening to close. And with “all due respect”, to say we sound like anyone else on our station ………but Happy New Year to you sir. But as I mentioned, every show aint for everybody. However thanks for listening. Rock p.s. We always invite ANYONE to call in and bring up what they’d like ANYTIME during the show. Even the United. I better stop now, or someone may consider this a promo too. (12/30/09)

Ready to feel older than coal? The Charlie Daniels song "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" celebrated its 30th birthday in 2009. Bet that devil could whip Johnny's ass today with a one-string cigar box fiddle. (12/30/09)

Just an alert for u at around 12:02 (AM) wjz fm sportstalk during dan patrick show suffered an outage its just noisy sound coming from the radio (12/30/09)

HD Subchannels are the innovative advantage of iBiquity's HD Radio. CBS Radio has a great, new idea in broadcasting out-of-market sports radio on HD subchannels. Even so, I still think it's amazing how iBiquity did not include subchannels in their original HD Radio IBOC specification (it's true!!). The subchannels of HD Radio will be the extreme value-add for HD Radio--just look at WIAD, WAMU, and WCSP. Those stupid commercials for HD Radio need to emphasize the subchannel feature, or maybe iBiquity doesn't do that because they're embarrassed they didn't think of subchannels when they originally proposed HD Radio? -Chainsman (12/30/09)

Did anybody notice NPR's retiring news anchor Carl Kassel was the voiceover announcer for the Kennedy Center Honors broadcast on CBS Tuesday night? He wasn't the announcer for the house. He did the commercial sponsorship announcements. (12/30/09)

/\ December 30 Messages /\

\/ December 29 Messages \/

("all except Chris Plante. He's on the job all week long and Thank God for that"...) Yes, Silvie. Thank God. Thank God the AFTRA contract didn't find it in their heart to give Chris the 3.4 hours accrued for every 3 weeks worked to have time off since his "tenure" started. We can all listen to blowhards like him and Jeffery T. Kuhner on WTNT. 6 hours of local blowhardism on local radio. Joy! (12/29/09)

Allen "Rocky" Lane (born Harry Leonard Albershart) provided Mister Ed's voice. He died October 27, 1973. He was also a B-movie Western actor and is mentioned in the Statler Brothers song, “Whatever Happened to Randolph Scott?”. The horse that portrayed Ed, was Bamboo Harvester. He went to Horse Heaven in either 1970 or 1979. (12/29/09)

Quote: "Hey WTNT: How long is Michael Savage going to be on vacation?" Everyone is out on holiday vacations through Monday the 4th - Ingraham, Beck, Limbaugh, Hannity, Levin, Savage, Mancow, Grandy & Andy - all except Chris Plante. He's on the job all week long and Thank God for that. -Silvie- (12/29/09)

Michael Alan Weiner, of the Weiner Nation will be back after the first of the year (12/29/09)

SOC Ron and Fez recap the arts for the first decade of the century www.ronfez.net... Along with the passing of Arnold Stang last week another notable Hollywood star passed away. One Connie Hines, Wilbur's wife on Mister Ed. Been seeing Mister Ed quite a bit in the last few months on the THIS movie channel on still free 50.2 over the air. Boy, Wilbur's wife had quite a figure did she ever do Playboy way back? I thought the on air relationship between wilbur and his wife changed after the Catherine The Great episode. Is the actor who played Mister Ed still alive?Adios, La Martucci, shirley she can hook up with a Weather Channel or weather.com etc., etc., just keep the shtick on the down low. Kind of nasty for channel 9 to treat her so bad right when she got married and at Christmas time too! Suraee Chinn oy bay And notice how she looks at the camera from the side when she anchors maybe she can also start doing the Susanna Hoffs thing with the eyes? Morning folks with what seems inordinate time off. Steve cheveny, andrae Rowan, Brain Van Der Graff more? (12/29/09)

With all due respect to the Kevin and Rock show promo, I tuned in a few times and it IS the SOS. Maximum Redskins and little or no Caps, Nats, Wiz, DC United. You can keep it. (12/29/09)

I was watching Kim Martucci's weathercast today and was wondering why she looked so sad...now I know. (12/29/09)

Dave's response: Awwww. Those Gannett bastards!!!!

Interesting to hear Al Michaels talk about the Caps on the Redskins-Cowboys Sunday Night football game. He said he saw much Ovechkin jerseys around town than Redskins jerseys and they did a shot of someone holding a let's go Caps sign at the Skins game. Nice to see the Caps get some nationwide love. Funny how Michaels sensed what was going on just from a visit while we still have the local talking heads like Pollin and Sheehan who don't get it...... (12/29/09)

Hey WTNT: How long is Michael Savage going to be on vacation? (12/29/09)

Dave, The Washington Post has removed another minor feature - the Sunday Samurai Sudoku puzzle in the Comics section. The Post used to have a decent games and puzzles section. Now, that feature is worse than what is provided in the free Express and Examiner. Also, I found it funny that the Home Edition of the Washington Post stated that the Carolina Panthers defeated the Washington Capitals last night 6-3 in the Sports section. I didn't know that a football team could skate and shoot so well! Given the amount of features removed from the Post this year and the quality of the stories, it's better to pick up the free Express daily paper. The stories are relatively the same and the Friday Express has the Samurai Sudoku puzzle. I'm now seriously considering dropping my subscription which I've had for 14 years. I must be stupid for keeping my subscription this long. Does the Post even care if I drop my subscription? I doubt it. Doug in Franklin Farm (12/29/09)

(regarding the possible demise of Free TV) The British system uses license fees on TVs to fund the non-commercial BBC. In a nation of some 61 million people, that model seems to work. In fact, over the years, dozens of quality programs there are imported in their original form (mostly to PBS) and in adapted forms, to commercial U.S. stations. Of the latter, just a few that come to mind are: "All In The Family" (Till Death Us Do Part), "Sanford & Son" (Steptoe & Son), and "The Office". At this point, it probably wouldn't be possible to scrap the current U.S. system and switch to the British model - mainly since here, we are "fee/tax-averse" and, "quality-averse," as well. (12/29/09)

Dave's response: I don't think a "license fee" on TV sets over here to support a public-based TV network would work. And if you've read the British press over the years, there are a lot of people over there who don't like the system and the programming the BBC offers. The American system of NOT having a government-backed TV network has worked well. It's not perfect, but there is plenty of quality American TV. It might a take a bit of work to find it among the sludge in our 300+ channel universe, but it's there.....

Props to Shawn in DC (you're not the ex-Dag Nasty vocalist by any chance?) for signing his posts. Genghis Cohen also signed, but then went on to talking about "loading mags" which is like the stupidest strategy in the world. Keep posting that on the internet and see how it works out for you. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/29/09)

Kind thanks to you Paul for your touching scripture. I'll keep that in mind when we finally do meet someday soon. Once again, you've allowed your anger dictate yet another post. You're now casting stones on me because I don't get paid? So, in essence you're casting stones on people like Rusty Gibson, Mike Fitzgerald, Paul Porzio, and countless others who do the exact same thing I do. The exact same thing and not make a penny from it. And spare me your broken record mentality about how they are not like me because of this, that, or the other. Considering you've openly claimed here that you don't know me, nor ever listened to my show, you really are not an authority to speak on anything pertaining to how I do things versus others in my same field. You harp that your peers have openly praised you here in the mailbag? How can we be so sure those were really the people the signatures claimed them to be? Afterall, Paul, you've already been outed on this site as a person who uses multiple names. Perhaps those peers praising you were nothing more than your feeble attempts to save face after being repetedly torn to shreds by me and my peers. What's that, you say? I've not had any of my peers mention me? I believe if you scroll back to just yesterday, you'll see one Rusty Gibson mention me in a positive way. I know you recall that post. His mere mention of my name got you going to the point where you felt compelled to attack me again. Much like back in the day when you were on the air, Paul, you're losing your edge. May I suggest taking more time between responses to me? And sure, you keep saying you're finished responding. But I know you're not. Your ego won't allow you to not respond. You'll respond, Paul. And I'll be right here to expose you a little bit more as the bitter, old man that you are. And, unlike you Paul, I'll sign my name to my post. I'm not going to hide behind anonymity because readers are tired of our battle. Can't say I blame them. -John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR (12/29/09)

Good windy day, all - In a month we'll have our next Q&A Cafe at the Ritz Georgetown. The guest is NBC's Chris Hansen, host of the groundbreaking and controversial "To Catch A Predator" series. For reservations, please call 202.912.4110. The fee is $50, all inclusive of soft beverages, food, tax and tip. Valet parking is available for a discounted $10. Seating begins at noon. We hope to see you there. On New York Social Diary today I reflect on the columns I've written this year and name some "best" and "most" of what I've seen and done among that crop. www.nysocialdiary.com.... I'm wishing you what we all need: a Happy New Year. Carol (12/29/09)

The NFL has screwed DC area Cowboys/Eagle fans for the 2nd straight year. Sunday's game has been moved to 4:15, when the Redskins are at the Chargers. (12/29/09)

From what I've seen and heard, there is absolutely nothing young in regards to PLB. *Michael in NW* (12/29/09)

Regarding the WAMS poster here in the mailbag…is Willie Gaylord (“Wake Up With Willie”) the same Willie from WCHE in West Chester? He allowed me, as a 15 year old, to hang out at the 250 watt daytimer and gave me my first on-air work. Quite a mentor to many in the business. (12/29/09)

PLB AND Collings- PLEASE meet in a parking lot somewhere and duke it out. Let it drop! E-mail each other directly and stay out of the mailbag. It's between the two of you. Everyone else here wants to talk about something other than you. My God, you both are like two young bucks that can't be adult enough to just walk away! Enough! (12/29/09)

Hi Dave, On January 30, 2010, I have committed to grin and "bear" it for the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland in honor of my Aunt Marilyn by taking a chilly dip into the Chesapeake Bay alongside about 10,000 other warm-hearted people. Yes, it's as cold as you'll ever be, but so worth it when you see what this means to these very special athletes. I have set a personal fundraising goal, and I need your help to reach it! So no, I'm not asking you to take the Plunge alongside, but instead, I am asking if you will make a donation to Special Olympics Maryland on behalf of me taking the 2009 MSP Plunge. Any amount would be appreciated... It all goes to a wonderful cause, and every little bit gets me that much closer to my goal. If you want to learn more about this wacky winter event, visit www.plungemd.com to find out all the chilly details. Think warm thoughts for me at January 30th approaches. I will do my best to "Be the Bear" and make my supporters proud! Thank you!!! Michael Hughes (12/29/09)

The following description on DCRTV is somewhat inaccurate: (PBS Producer Slams Pledge Drives - 12/29 - David Fanning, founding executive producer of "Frontline" for Arlington-based PBS, says it's "shameful" the way some public stations use pledge drives to market products for local sponsors. More at uscannenberg.org.....) Fanning works for "Frontline", which is produced by WGBH, in Boston. Fanning does not directly work for Arlington-based PBS. (12/29/09)

Dave's response: I think it reads OK. WGBH produces the program "for" PBS. Right?

I dont want to sound alarmist or anything, but is what I am hearing on WURA 920-AM Dumfries the actual format, and no longer the product of on-air transmitter testing? Because if so, they may as well just plow the towers under now. As testing goes, it's amusing to listen to. If they are on the air full-bore, may God help us all. (12/29/09)

Dear Mr. Collings THE SENILITY PRAYER: Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked anyway, The good fortune to run into the ones I do, and The eyesight to tell the difference. (12/29/09)

Mr. Collings latest snippet: (You disrespected my medium, my format, and my show) My response: 2 out of three ain’t bad. You are trying to bully your way into being the big kid on the block and you’re failing miserably. This is truly the end of our conversation, and you’re right I don’t like you. Be sure I don’t feel intimidated. At least when I worked the industry I was paid for what I did and had great mentors that appreciated my work ethic, my determination and my brains. You have none of what was just mentioned. Go ahead post your rebuttal. I won’t be following up as you play with your newest toy. I like the way you told us all that you noticed that my peers do comment. Haven’t seen any posts from your peers, they’re embarrassed. No name necessary! (12/29/09)

Penismighty = Sideshow Bob. Enough already and that goes for PLB, WEBR and Etc. (12/29/09)

(Everyone knows you don't like me, Paul. But simply put, the only reason you don't like me has nothing to do with Tom Gavin, web radio, or anyone's career. You don't like me for the simple reason that I crossed you. And keep crossing you.) Dave, do these people have pictures of you or something? Make 'em stop. (Shawn in DC) (12/29/09)

(From DCRTV's Classified Ads:) Fast-growing music website, Consequence of Sound (consequenceofsound.net), that’s targeted at the “Y Generation” seeks an experienced commission-based Online Media Sales Representative with Agency relationships. CoS is averaging 20,000 to 30,000 readers per day; has more than 45 (mostly college-aged) volunteer editors, writers and photographers; promotes and sponsors festivals, including Lollapalooza (Chicago) and South by Southwest (Austin); and has been featured in / on BBC.co.uk, CBS Radio, Chicago-Sun Times, Filter Magazine, The Huffington Post, LA Weekly, MTV.com, The New Yorker, Spin and USA Today. If interested, please contact Alex Young at alexyoung@consequenceofsound.net. (12/29/09)

The end of broadcast TV - Stumbled across this and thought you might be interested... yahoo.com (12/29/09)

Professional political slimester Karl Rove, seen carping daily on Fox, just announced he's divorcing his second wife, Darby. Score another for the party of family values and hypocrisy. One more Karl and you're right up there with Rush Limbaugh and Rudy Giuliani! No word as to whether or not the separation happened because (reportedly) actor Randy Quaid accused the pudgy politico of hitting on his wife! ACH (12/29/09)

Re:1059 sounding better. Dave - - any idea on how they are doing in their target demographics (Men's 25-54 or Men's 18-49)? I wonder if there has been improvement over the True Oldies incarnation. (12/29/09)

Everyone knows you don't like me, Paul. But simply put, the only reason you don't like me has nothing to do with Tom Gavin, web radio, or anyone's career. You don't like me for the simple reason that I crossed you. And keep crossing you. For years you've bullied and terrorized this mailbag with your fleet of pseudonyms and rants and raves about God only knows what. Someone disagrees with you or questions you, you attack with fancy words and messages of support from "people" in your past. Your massive ego actually has you believing this is your playground, and if someone crosses you, you attack. I, though, won't go down, Paul. This isn't your playground, this is everyone's playground. Your pals and big words don't scare or impress me. You disrespected my medium, my format, and my show. You've listened. And I now feel sorry for your Mom's grave, God rest her soul, that is if she has actually passed. You suddenly now consider yourself a webber? Welcome aboard, there is plenty of room. But now you're a hypocrite too. Now you want to be lumped in with those of us who do what we do for the fun and love of radio? I seem to recall many moons ago that you slammed me (and those other "webbers") because we don't get paid for what we do. Newsflash, Paul, it's not about the money. It's about entertainment, plain and simple. That's something you'll never understand. Because to you, it's about money and fame. And your ego exposes that. We're not beneath you, Paul. In fact, the webbers are lightyears above you. And incidently, please let us all know when you'll be appearing on a WEBR show. I know my entire crew would love to drop in that day and shake your hand. Afterall, you are a local radio legend. -John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR (12/29/09)

Please, Dave, please, as a New Year's resolution for DCRTV, no more PLB/Collings/Rusty diatribes and Penis filibusters. These truly are the worst of the worst. (Shawn in DC) (12/29/09)

MLB4, I also hope CBS goes “Personality Oldies”, preferably D.C.-focused on 94.7 as that stick is underperforming. I don’t see a “D.C./Baltimore-focused” station happening because of the differences between the two markets. As for “El Zol”, CBS is too smart to move it to the heart of GOP conservatism, namely Virginia. As much sense as such a move makes commercially, it would be a corporate political nightmare were the GOP ever to re-gain political power. Speaking of politics, I saw a nice one-sided piece on WTOP’s website about the battle between Fox and Time-Warner over “pay for play”. Quoting Rupert Murdoch talking about “quality programming” would be as consistent as quoting Yugo’s CEO talking about quality luxury cars. By not exploiting their strengths over cable since day one and being emasculated by ATSC, broadcast TV has sealed the beginning of its own demise. Murdoch’s and Sinclair’s “Pay for Play” ideas have one serious flaw: They presume a majority (if not everyone) will gladly pay their price. Given today’s economy, I don’t see that happening. Traditional broadcasters who aggressively pursue a mixed fee/advertising revenue mix are going to find themselves shut-out of the marketplace because if just one major cable operator says “no”, the others will follow. Yes, the signal(s) will get pulled and people may bitch to Congress. But, without those viewers cable provides reliably (more so than ATSC over the air for most), those ad dollars will also go elsewhere. The TV broadcasters are on a very slippery slope. Pity they don’t realize that their monopolies are over. No longer must they compete against each other, but against other media. And, not necessarily ad-supported ones. Broadcasters (I’m including radio here, as well.) need to realize that we are no longer the only game in town. The ones that “get it” will adapt and thrive. Those that don’t risk finding their studio sites redeveloped into office condos and transmitter sites becoming townhouse neighborhoods. –Unsigned Corporate Suit (12/29/09)

Dave: A small suggestion: how about designating one day a week for the airing of these little bitchfests? "Whinefest Wednesday?" "Finger-Pointing Friday"? I mean, one day out of seven should be sufficient for ongoing pillow fights between the tapioca-eating seniors and the basement-dwelling podcasters. You could even set up a time -- something that works AFTER morning crafts class for the seniors and BEFORE the afternoon Spongebob marathon for the podcasters. Sheesh. Sincerely, TMU. P.S.: remember -- if you feel the need to ANNOUNCE that you're taking the high road/doing the right thing, it really does take away from whatever you're doing. (12/29/09)

The full link for the info on LCD burn in is www.techlore.com (12/29/09)

Every time I think it might be safe to come back to the Mailbag, the uber-schmuck PenisMightier renders it unreadable. For the love of God and all that's holy, get comfy in your bean bag down in your Mom's basement and end it already! I'll even pay for the bullet, oven time or flexible plastic hose to hook up to the exhaust of your 97 Honda clown car destined for future ownership by 12 illegals. Just freakin' go away; greater literacy and wit was hung at Nuremberg. Genghis Cohen, loading up the mags for the coming battle in cold and windy Prince William County... (12/29/09)

Allen Stanford, accused of swindling seven billion dollars from investors, got a big wet kiss from Republican Congressman Pete Sessions after Stanford's arrest back in February. Congressman Sessions wrote “I love you, and believe in you,” in a recently released email. Congressman Sessions last year denied even knowing Mr. Sanford even though they went yachting together in Antigua. The connection to DCRTV is Allen Stanford advertised his fraudulent financial investment services on Sean Hannity’s radio show last year, even after Mr. Stanford fled the country after criminal indictments. When Mr. Stanford was on the lam, Sean went as far as to call on the air Stanford and his partners “My good friends,” and urge his listeners to call Stanford Gold and Bullion, open up an account, and "tell them Sean Hannity sent you." After Stanford was bought back to the US with handcuffs, Sean Hannity made no effort to warn Hannity listeners that opened accounts to not send Stanford checks, because Stanford was operating a ponzi scheme. Why would Sean not come clean and warn his audience about losing money to a fraud he earlier endorsed? Because Sean Hannity is an a$$hole. Sean Hannity’s fraud and propaganda can be heard on WMAL. Get your freedom concert tickets at Hannity.com. (12/29/09)

Rusty, You're memory is better than mine when it comes to the John Kennally stuff. I do remember him interviewing the late Charlie Eckman a time or two before the broadcasts. Eckman would tell all those great old time NBA and ACC stories. I loved "Go, Orioles, Go!" but haven't ever found a copy of it either. I think they even used to play it at the Stadium whenever a player hit a home run. I'm pretty sure the song disappeared after 1967. Howie (12/29/09)

To the reader that asked about burn in on LCDs here is a link to an article that discusses the problem. www.techlore.com. The bottom line is that LCDs are less susceptible to burn in than CRTs or plasmas. if I understand you correctly you only occasionally leave it on for long periods so the risk is slight. (12/29/09)

Free TV going away? earthlink.net... Don't get smug and think it can't happen. Just two generations ago barber shops were rolling along just fine, then along came the Beatles... (12/29/09)

“Is it true that Kim Martucci is being let go at WUSA?” Yes, it’s true as she was offered a big (we do mean big) time job replacing the old one as the new corporate logo for this company: wikipedia.org (12/29/09)

I have a different problem I think is related to this Comcast DTV switch. It seems like Comcast is constantly doing testing on the channels they moved and I think they are possibly damaging my LCD TV. What happens is I fall asleep with the TV on and when I wake up my LCD TV is either frozen on a static image from the channel it was on or there's a black screen. The only thing I can do to get the LCD to work after that is unplug it for a second and plug it back in. Then everything is fine. At first, I thought maybe there was something wrong with my TV of course, but it's brand new. Then I realized, it only happens on these channels that Comcast moved to digital and was running a message saying I needed to get a converter box. All the other channels, analog and DTV channels seem fine. It's only the ones Comcast is screwing around with. Of course my TV with a Comcast In Demand box is fine. My question is, will a static image repeatedly on my LCD all night long damage my LCD permanently with screen burn in? Even if not, I don't like Comcast zapping my TV overnight with their testing and this is a shitty way to treat paying customers that have been with them for over 20 years. I could just go up to Comcast and get a box, but at the moment I'm kinda pissed at what's happening to my new TV and thinking I might just wait for FIOS to come to my area and then tell them to screw off. Has anyone else had this problem? (12/29/09)

Ian Punnett, on the old Art Bell show tonight, stood in the door when some global douche effer rambled on about how the NSA put him in the Peace Corps and then he worked at the World Bank overthrowing governments. God, I love banging college girls. That's why I go to "actions". That's good pelt. Ian Punnett nutted up and stood tall tonight, basically calling his guest a lunatic who was making stuff up. I didn't get the douche's name, just some Clarke Kissenger trench-coat wearer who likes college-age pelt. Ladies, take heed. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/29/09)

Frankly, I'm puzzled. The latest outrage from ThePenIs is his use of the word "fag". A week or two ago, he suggested that to advance in radio, someone should get a "colored" partner. Why do you allow such offensive things to be posted here? (12/29/09)

Dave's response: I thought he was using the British slang for a cigarette.....

Regarding going TVless. The quality of broadcast radio and television has declined because broadcast went mass market and participants entered a race to the bottom. When commercial TV broadcasting began sixty years ago, the few TV sets were owned by the wealthy. People with enough dough-re-mi to buy a set could also fund education and maintain routine contact with educated, literate people. Programming was targeted at that demographic. The producers assumed a certain sophistication on the part of the viewer. There were few channels. A license to broadcast TV was a license to print money. With the advent of cable, air time became abundant. The law of supply and demand dicates an oversupply dictates reduced profits. Reduced profits causes pressure to reduce production costs. Maury Povich titilates with programs that ask the burning question, "Which of youse guys is the father of my baby?" NBC programs Leno in a strip to eliminate the cost of scripted dramas. Legions tune in to see who is gonna be voted off the island. Cheap to produce. Gets results. Advertisers are pleased. Can you say Four Hours of The TODAY Show daily? Radio is a story of greedy excess and consolidation consented to (in response to industry pressure) by Congress and the FCC. Too much sameness. Pay for a consultant. Don't pay for talent. Not even somebody paid to monitor transmissions. Astounding! Still, there are things of value on broadcast. You can't beat WTOP and the bona fide news channels for (unfeigned) breaking news. PBS is still plugging away producing valuable documentaries, children's programming, and the PBS NewsHour, Frontline, and Nova. (12/29/09)

Snippet: (Paul. Hate the game. Times change. Get over it. So, at the risk of sounding pompeous and overbearing, you want to apologize to me? Call my show and do it. You know, the same show that you attempt to run down, yet have listened to. The same show you keep crying to Dave Hughes about when I plug it here in this forum. Want to apologize, Paul? Call my show and apologize like the legend you say you are. -John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR) Comment: John, I am amazed at your pompous attitude. I have no grudge against WEBBERS..I too am a webber and soon will have four radio stations I'm WEBBING on. Stay tuned. You are in my estimation the epitomy of pomposity *(or insecurity). You have no idea what I am, what I'm about or what I think.. I was truly making an effort at just ending this WEB thing. For God's sake most of the FM and AM stations are webbing..it's a way of life. You, on the other hand are the reason most WEBBERS should be embarrassed. YOU DON'T GET IT. You're the only webber I really don't like and I've never even met you. By the way I (on my Mothers grave) have never listened to you, and know if I did I'd get exactly what I thought. Stop begging for a call from me, it won't happen. You. are a webber, I actually took the time to try and end your ass-hole perspectives, you jerk, you came back with STUPIDITY. Now about the other WEBBERS on WEBR, the rest of the WEBR crew are dedicated broadcasters not even getting involved in your childish cravings.. As for the "wrath of the vetrans"...we talk...don't doubt that for a minute. Again, I told you I'm sorry I overreacted to the Tom Gavin insult. I am truly sorry for that. The rest of your bullshit can hang where the sun don't shine. No Identification necessary. (12/29/09)

Sum Yum Guy wrote: "I don't mind doing guys if they have cash to spend. Hey now, I actually found the Chrismus Eve podcast of the Mike O'Mirror show kinda funny, that internet Tommy is a hoot. Oscar Santana said that Katie Powers had lived in the same apartment building in Adams Morgan for the last 2 years. But this mistener seems to recall last fall 2008 that a big deal was made out of renovations taking place at Ms. Powers apartment and Buzzito had offered to let her stay at his place for a few days. Then I believe she ended up moving from her apartment. I must have be listening to hard to the show back then. Could it be possible that O'Mirror actually created a bit? And say why was Ms. Powers pretty much awol during the last few months of the wjfk version of the O'Mirror show. aw shucks." Awww, toodledouche. It was Glover Park, not Adams Morgan (I think we all know the joke), where Oscar was often fingered(!) as the suspicious latino lurking around the building. He began with a 6 month lease. "Mistener" of course is radiogodsforum slang for "a fag who will take it any which-way" or, alternatively, "some dumb scum-sucker who can't get even one fact right." "why was Ms. Powers pretty much awol " Car crash. Eff off. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/29/09)

The launch clock will start in two days. No DJ-bashing, no Don and or Mike comparisons that get run into the ground- just SOLID funny radio- www.TommyGriffiths.com is coming soon! (12/29/09)

2 Rules In The Mailbag:: One, if your talent, NO PROMOTING YOUR SHOW - buy a damn display ad from Dave, Two, NO RE-POSTING the SAME repetitive post - just like ASSHOLE MLB4 [mustlickballs?] did on 12/26 & then now. AHHHHH (12/29/09)

Im not above self promotion at all but I will try to keep this short. We(The Kevin & Rock Show) are new on the scene and Im personally not afraid to tell all your faithful mailbaggers to check us out on CBS Radio’s 106.7 The Fan. We will be the first LIVE show on New Years Day at 5.30pm. Usually we are on the weekends at different time slots, but our current listeners follow us whenever we are on. I have read this site for a while and I’d say MANY of your readers are intelligent enough to know when they are hearing good programming and when they aren’t. But again, every show isn’t for every listener. I’d say tune in and personally tell us what you think. If you are looking for “old time” radio this is not the show for you. If you are looking for Stats and Heavy Hitting Athletes who give you cliché answers, we are not the show for you. If you are looking for the same stuff you hear now. You definitely don’t want to tune us in. However if you want a TRUE Fan Perspective and not a lot of Fluff with a lot of fun mixed in, we might be something you can get addicted to. If not? You can change the station or keep listening and write here and tell the other Mailbag readers how “lame” we are. Im not as sensitive as many other in the industry, so I can take it, chuckle and keep on moving. After all, what separates The Kevin and Rock Show from all others? We have day jobs just like those who listen to us. Kev’s a Fireman and I am in Marketing. Thus my shameless Self Promotion here. Without further blabbing: Why pitch ourselves when I can just let your readers decide for themselves. Check us out if you dare. If you don’t……Your wives might. www.kevinandrockshow.com (12/29/09)

Roger was an institution in small Delaware. -- Roger Holmes Age 86, a local radio personality and public servant, passed away Saturday November 26, 2009.... Born Milton Roger Holmes, Jr., in 1923 in Westmont, NJ, he graduated from Collingswood High in 1941. In 1943, he enlisted in the Army Signal Corps. During WW11, he landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day+3. Roger returned from the war with a Welsh bride, Joan, and enrolled at Temple University on the GI Bill. While there, he was instrumental in bringing the campus radio station to the airways of Philadelphia as station manager in WRTI's early days. After receiving his BA at Temple, Roger hosted WDEL's "Musical Clock", was a DJ and newsman at WSRS in Cleveland, and returned to Wilmington to begin what was to be his longest stint in radio on WAMS from 1957-1969. This was a time of transition in radio. He started out playing the music of artists like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley and ended his time at WAMS playing artists like Diana Ross and The Beatles. He will be fondly remembered as the host of WAMS' Saturday morning's "Roger's Record Room" where he played the Top 40 Countdown. Roger hand compiled the Top 40 list from area record stores' sales figures (this was before computers) and then distributed it at the "sock hops" he conducted at fire halls and schools throughout New Castle County, Elkton, MD and across the bridge in southern NJ. As Operations Manager at WAMS, he also mentored younger disc jockeys who went on to careers in other markets such as Miami, Nashville and Philadelphia. After WAMS, he was an announcer at WNRK in Newark, had a show again on WDEL, and served as a weekend DJ at WIP in Philadelphia in the 1970's. Switching gears, he served as Management Assistant to Wilmington's Mayor Harry Haskell, making an impact on the community with his strong belief in civil rights for all. From 1974-1994 Roger served as the Chief Deputy Register of Chancery for New Castle County. After having two daughters, Roger and his first wife divorced in 1978. Roger later met Joan Robinson. They were happily married from 1987 until her passing in 2007. The past 15 years Roger was host of "In a Mist", a Sunday night Big Band/Swing show on WVUD, the radio station of The University of Delaware. Roger's listeners were now from all over the country, thanks to the internet. He loved his colleagues, his listeners, and above all the music. Roger is survived by his daughters, Wendy Eshleman of Lancaster, PA and Karen Pocius of Factoryville, PA; and two grandchildren, Nicolette Pocius of Towns-ville, Australia and Matthew Eshleman of Ithaca, NY. Also surviving are his sister-in law Martha Holmes of Collingswood, NJ and her children, Roger's niece Susan and nephew Jeff; nieces Joanne, Diane and Kris; and brother-in-law Charles and sister-in-law Mary Luley of Cincinnati. OH and their extended family. His first wife, Lilian Joan Holmes of Manheim, PA also survives. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am Wednesday December 30, 2009 at the CHANDLER FUNERAL HOME, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington where friends may call from 10-11am. Interment will be private. Contributions in Roger's memory may be made to The Southern Poverty Law Center, PO Box 548, Montgomery, AL 36177-9621 or The National WW11 Museum, 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 attn: Tribute Gift. Contributions would also be welcomed at WVUD, Perkins Student Center, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716. The family would also like to thank the caring staff of both Shipley Manor and St Francis Hospital. His stays in both places were very brief, but Roger's last days were made as comfortable as possible by the staffs' expert care, loving support, compassion, and encouraging humor. Bless you a all... (12/29/09)

/\ December 29 Messages /\

\/ December 28 Messages \/

Dave, count me in with those who agree with your statement about how many people would benefit if TV was removed from their lives actually a good many of folks are doing that right now...many in the younger generation. Of course I am not saying that everyone under 30 hates TV but it's hard to overlook the fact that there are many of people under the age of 30 today simply do not watch TV much less own a set. Hell many of them don't even listen to the radio. My brother teaches at a college near Buffalo and he has told me many of times, very very few of his students "do TV or radio", now whether or not its because of the quality of today's TV & radio why they don't watch or listen or because it's the "in thing" to say TV and radio sucks, I guess one can debate that but none-the-less there is no shortage of those who really couldn't care less if one of their local stations would throw in towel and go dark, like what Philly's WKBS did so many years ago. Because of this that is why I always laugh when I hear about such and such network trying to reach that "very important younger demographic". How can a TV network or a radio station reach a group of people when many of them don't even watch or listen in the first place? (12/28/09)

In a perfect world, everyone would be reading literature & poetry, & getting their news from respected newspapers and organizations daily, but let's face reality here. Most poor and elderly (and most people in general) rely on local TV stations and cable news & weather channels to get most important news & alerts and the cable companies are going to remove them all from Lifeline cable TV with a waiver from the FCC. When I told my elderly parents they were going to lose local channels, news, weather & sports from cable TV if they didn't do something, they told they'd gotten a letter from Comcast, but they don't understand it. They think they can just go out and buy a new HDTV set and that'll fix one room or that the government coupon converter they got for another TV fixes it. I keep saying to them, NO, NO, NO, that won't work, but they're elderly, they refuse to pay Comcast any more money and my Mom barely knows how to use the TV remote she has now. They already had 2 other elderly people tell them that was the solution! I'm begging them not to get new TVs. What the FCC is doing is overturning its previous must-carry rule and basically giving out more corporate welfare, not to mention it's a complete disservice to public safety and the equivalent of a bait and switch for anyone who bought a Clear QAM Cable-Ready HDTV set or various other equipment. The FCC should be forcing ClearQAM or something equivalent on the industry just as a matter of public safety and the FTC should be investigating all of the cable companies, FIOS, & the satellite companies for this. Is this largely unreported FCC waiver to huge media corporations the Obama Payoff for the favorable media coverage he got during the election? If not, it certainly looks like it because it's anti-poor, anti-elderly, & anti-consumer. If this were a Bush decision, oh my god, just imagine the outrage. (12/28/09)

See Bicknell, you still don't get it, do you? The Tom Gavin comment is a mere afterthought at this point. My issue with you is your utter disrespect of the very medium on which I produce my show. Your long history in the industry has apparently given you a superiority complex that forces you to look down on people like myself who produce a show on the web. You've termed people like myself "webbers", and while I personally take no offense to that label, you clearly intend it in a negative connotation towards people who do what I do. Your webber vs. WEBBER argument has been nothing more than you attempting to cover your own butt against the possible wrath of the veterans in the very same medium you keep berating. While I do respect your long history in the industry, I do feel that that same history has elevated your ego to elevations that no one can even fathom to reach. Your overall "grumpy" demeanor on this very site only supports what I've claimed all along, that you have an utter disdain for the next generation of broadcasters and the mediums in which the produce. Is it because it's easier in today's age for people like me to get behind the microphone and do what you did for so many years? Is it because my generation can take classes to have the ability to do a show, where you had to give blood, sweat, and tears for extended periods of time in the hopes that maybe you'd make it big one day?Don't hate the player, Paul. Hate the game. Times change. Get over it. So, at the risk of sounding pompeous and overbearing, you want to apologize to me? Call my show and do it. You know, the same show that you attempt to run down, yet have listened to. The same show you keep crying to Dave Hughes about when I plug it here in this forum. Want to apologize, Paul? Call my show and apologize like the legend you say you are. -John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR (12/28/09)

Regarding Kathie Lee Gifford gaining weight, I think she just wears very tight clothes that are obviously a few sizes too small..So, that just accentuates her boobs. (12/28/09)

Don Geronimo is sounding great on WCBS-FM. Let's hope this is a trial run for a format flip for one of the CBS properties here in DC. This format could work in this area if it weren't simply a plug in and play jukebox ipod like Citadel did with 105.9. This is not how people remembered the format presented years ago and the lack of personality on classic hits/oldies stations anymore is the real reason why the format is tanking in some markets. That ego-fest known as Mr. Shannon's True Oldies Channel stinks in smaller markets and just sounded outright cheap in a major one. Its fine for a tiny AM write off station in market #142, but not here on a major market FM! My take on CBS in the area would be personality driven oldies/classic hits on 99.1 marketed to Baltimore AND Washington led by Don G and the Merson Person, Espanol on 106.7 (a no-brainer here one would think), bring back W-Lite on 94.7 (smooth jazz weekends, really soft a/c during the week), spin one of the Citadel stations to WHFS - more than likely 105.9. Shift WPGC to more of a hit based rhythmic leaning a/c geared to PG County - think part Jam'n 99.5 from a few years back mixed with Majic 102.3 - keep Donnie and put Albie Dee back on PGC. Let the kids have WKYS. Oh, and donate 1580 to somebody - nothing they put on there is going to work. I think we can all predict that at least one of CBS' stations will flip here this year. MLB4 (12/28/09)

Is it true that Kim Martucci is being let go at WUSA? (12/28/09)

SOC Steve Czaban blogs goodbye to his Faux Sports Radio listeners. czabe.blogspot.com... Btws, when does the contract for Czaban with the Sports Reporters come to an end? I think he would be fine on Duh Fan. I don't mind retreading folks if they have talent and not trying to create something out of not much with something like the Levar Arrington show. Man that Chad Dukes sounds like he's bailing the water out of the dingy everyday. George Michael interviews Wwwwwoooooo Ric Flair www.youtube.com... Did Susan Kidd ever get back in the tv anchor business? And Mr. Perfect been gone for a few years now ain't he? And re: Cheap Seats talking about George being paid by the Dreadskins. Does that apply to Czarniak and Hellie today? I figure probably since channel 4 has all them Dreadskin produced tv shows. La Martucci sighting this morning on channel 9 morning news. Is she at the end of her contract and management at channel 9 is just dumping on her too make her go away? Interesting dynamics I must say. Goff on the rise with her blogs and anchoring the news(she needs to work on pronouncing "cognitve") and La Martucci strangely disappearing from the airwaves. And the new traffic gal at channel 9, enough with the tight pants already try a skirt. Hey now, I actually found the Chrismus Eve podcast of the Mike O'Mirror show kinda funny, that internet Tommy is a hoot. Oscar Santana said that Katie Powers had lived in the same apartment building in Adams Morgan for the last 2 years. But this mistener seems to recall last fall 2008 that a big deal was made out of renovations taking place at Ms. Powers apartment and Buzzito had offered to let her stay at his place for a few days. Then I believe she ended up moving from her apartment. I must have be listening to hard to the show back then. Could it be possible that O'Mirror actually created a bit? And say why was Ms. Powers pretty much awol during the last few months of the wjfk version of the O'Mirror show. aw shucks. And in conclusion, after listening to Baltimorons The Jack 102.7 over the last month I'd say a definte change in music with a heavier emphasis on the heavy metal/hard rock stuff bummer I liked the pop and new wave of the 80's do you think tom bodet should take over for Garrison keillor? Is joe biden spending the holidays making sure no one has used the stimulus money in an illegal way? (12/28/09)

I've watched this rediculous war of words between me and John Collings/John. I've decided to do the right thing. This whole thing started over a public email referring to Tom Gavin and his evidently upsetting body odor, I was being sensitive when I took umbrage with it and posted in his defense. I just don't think it's fair to "dis" people with challenges. That's all there was to it. Unfortunately it grew into an ugly and rather rude discourse between me and John. I am posting this to end this stupid boring exchange here in the mailbag. John or Mr. Collings, I sincerely apologize for letting it get out of hand. I hope you can accept my public apology It's just that. I am sensitive to those that are challenged and allowed my anger to get the best of me. To fellow mailbaggers, sorry to have bored you with this, and will not post again on this subject. PLB/Davy Jones>:) (12/28/09)

Come on Dave...Two posts back to back from Bicknell? Really? (12/28/09)

Dave's response: I guess he didn't want me to post the one immediately below. Oh well, it's already up. Gosh, it's getting mighty confusing moderating the feud between you old radio dudes. I give up.....

Dave, Dave, Dave, Collings is at it again….he is one pain in my ass. I don’t hate him……. I just don’t like him…LOL(Snippet)”We do the best we can every week to put on quality programming, regardless of the haters, of whom I will not mention. -John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR(end snippet) (12/28/09)

Gee, I thought no one was allowed to plug their shows on DCRTV???? I guess that doesn’t include John Collings????? Is he priviledged? (12/28/09)

Dave's response: I'll often let people plug their shows on the Mailbag. Not to excess, mind you.....

(RE: "Dave's response: Honestly, I believe that removing the television would be a improvement in many people's lives. How many unemployed DC area women living in poverty spend their days glued to court/tabloid shows on 5 and 20? Most American commercial television is, simply-put, mind-rotting garbage. Our children would be better served by reading books, and parentally carefully-chosen DVDs of science/educational programs and movies, combined with limited internet access.....") Amen, Dave! Amen! (12/28/09)

Dave's response: One of my neighbors has a TV, but no cable or antenna. She lets her 10-year-old watch DVDs that she approves of or play video games that she approves of. She also lets him occasionally access the web via Wifi. He seems to be a really smart kid despite the fact that he couldn't watch that "Saw" movie marathon on SyFy like his friends did on Christmas weekend.....

Thanks Rusty for the kind words in regards to our show on WEBR. We do the best we can every week to put on quality programming, regardless of the haters, of whom I will not mention. -John Collings - The Other Guys Show - WEBR (12/28/09)

Hey "Howie." Do you remember John Kennely's Oriole pregame show called "Baseball Contact" (as opposed to the other WJZ "Contact" show that ran in those days. There was also "Locker Room" which had live interviews with Oriole players. B/T/W, I'm still looking for a copy of the "Go Orioles Go' song that played during the intro of every telecast (they even had the "cartoon" bird "flying across the screen. I think it was the voice of Chuck Thompson that did the intro narrative. Not long ago I watched a film called"Little Big League" which featured former O's broadcaster John Gordon. John was only in the O's booth for 1970. He was an excitable guy (much like Tom Marr was when he teamed with Jon Miller (an old friend of mine). Rusty Gibson WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/28/09)

I don't think WRC gave George Michael's death the coverage it richly deserved. He was a Washington sports legend right up there with Glenn Brenner. The least they should have done or should do soon is a round table with his Redskins Reports colleagues, Michael Wilbon, Sonny Jorgenson and John Riggins. George left as an anchor because he didn't want his staff to be laid off and take pay cuts he didn't take. That showed class. I don't know if he was too sick to work in 2007 and that's why he quit entirely or if WRC made another of it's brilliant cost cutting moves and laid him off. Redskins Report is sorely miss. Dan Helle and Lindsay Czarniak are good but not George Michael good. (12/28/09)

Enjoyed the PLB interview with Lee Shephard. (12/28/09)

Glad to see DCRTV Dave's comments on must carry. Where do people get the idea that companies need to provide free services? If people are so concerned about it, start a non-profit, raise money and pay for the poor and eldery to get cable. Stop asking the rate payers to pay for others who don't pay. Oh and George Bush isn't President anymore, find a new boogey man. (12/28/09)

Entertainment purposes aside the loss of local stations means citizens,especially the elderly, will lose coverage of weather,emergencies,community issues,etc by people familiar with the area and its particular details. Maryland weather and weather emergencies are best handled by Maryland meteorologists. I would venture to say the same for other states with different geographies and terrains. Piped in news content will be only highlights and generic reports. That the FCC would allow this farce shows that,more and more, if you are not prosperous you do not matter in the least. This passive/aggressive 'weeding of the poor' effect by government,big business and those who were fortunate enough(Yes Fortunate-not all those in poverty are stupid,lazy or addicted to dope) to allow a life of new technologies and pampering products is the same as walking past a rape or leaning on a life preserver as someone goes under. Donnie in New Moscow (12/28/09)

How much extra delay will there be on the Lavar/Chad show? Dallas beats the Skins like an L.A. speeder and Lavar's restaurant closed. I smell a LOT of calls deleted (12/28/09)

Bob A., What I remember about John Kennally was that he hosted the pre and post game studio show for the Orioles' channel 13 broadcasts. These shows were not unlike the things cable nets do today minus the live interviews from the ballpark. I don't remember seeing anything similar on Senators' broadcasts from the same era, although I could be mistaken. I was heartbroken when John was replaced by Nick Charles. Howie (12/28/09)

James the other hosts I had in mind are as follows:Mike Fitzgerald ("FitzGrass" - Fri 1-3) Jim Burke ("UK Swings," Sun 6 8). The Big G "KRadio Flashback" Sun 8 - 10), Paul Porzio "Eclectic Hours" Sun 10:00 - Non) Tray Bouche "Morning Mix" Fri 8 - 11) Steve Ruddell (not currently with a radio show but does a FANTASTIC show on Channel 10 called "1600", and even "Mr. Collings" ("The Other Guys" Fri 11 - Midnight). Matthew Moore "Psychedelic Circus" (Sat 10-Midnight There are plenty of others there most certainly deserve mention. Sadly we lost our only WEBR radio sports show when Jim Ward left the area. There's even a Pro Wrestling show called "Falls Count Everywhere". Give us a listen sometime or better yet come down to the station and put in for a show of your own.We are all freeform producers not restricted by corporate playlists. Very simply put, we truly love the industry. Peace, Rusty Gibson WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/28/09)

When will Davy Jones' appearance on WEBR be? Just wondering. (12/28/09)

RE: [ " Dave's response: Even basic cable is not a god-given right. You have to pay for it. If cable companies want to make sure that only people who pay for basic cable can get it, I have no problem with that. Don't like that? Go put up an antenna and watch for free. " ]......... I'm confused, is George W. Bush running DCRTV now? Why do you think BluRay is dying Dave? Egregious copy protection & encryption & difficulty in playing DVDs on computers, etc. The same kinds of hassles that music customers have already rejected on iTUNES, Amazon & on commercial CDs are now being applied to Cable TV & satellite. The reason this FCC cable TV "waiver" ruling is bad is because there IS NO OTHER UNENCRYPTED FAIR USE OPTION. And the FCC ruling pretty much kills the FCC Must Carry rule for local TV stations to poor & elderly people. Do you think an elderly person is going to be putting an antenna back up on their roof? I think not. IT'S PAY FOR CLUNKY BOXES ALL OVER YOUR HOUSE OR GO F YOURSELF IF YOU WANT LOCAL TV NOW. Many paying customers will lose channels and poor & elderly people w/ lifeline cable TV will lose local channels during the worst recession since WWII without paying more money to greedy corporations. If that's not an FCC governmental disgrace, I don't know what is. Not to mention, the "waivers" pretty much make all the "Cable-Ready TV" marketing over the years nothing but a scam and false advertising. It even makes DVD recorders obsolete, as well as VCRs and media PCs. It's nothing but a mad corporate media power grab over control of content via the flawed DMCA law and violates the general Fair Use provision that most consumers expect for music & video content. We're getting to the point where Fair Use and DMCA are completely at odds with each other. I hope that consumer rights groups fight this or sue to stop it or complain to Congress or the FCC. I wouldn't even be surprised if there's a class action lawsuit against the TV & device manufacturers, although the 9 dollars the average person would probably get from that would only pay for 2 months of the Comcast converter box or 2 TVs for 1 month! HAHA No other option is left except OTA + antenna and the FCC already screwed that up as most DTV stations don't have the same coverage areas as previously, so consumers are screwed across the board and the cable TV companies know it. If the cable companies want to stop cable theft, they have plenty of technologies and techniques to do that without this mess. This is an epic fail for the FCC in my opinion, but corporate America, all the big media & news organizations, President Obama, the new "change" FCC, and even now DCRTV Dave Hughes thinks this is a good corporate thing. Go figure. (12/28/09)

Dave's response: Honestly, I believe that removing the television would be a improvement in many people's lives. How many unemployed DC area women living in poverty spend their days glued to court/tabloid shows on 5 and 20? Most American commercial television is, simply-put, mind-rotting garbage. Our children would be better served by reading books, and parentally carefully-chosen DVDs of science/educational programs and movies, combined with limited internet access.....

Currently the funeral mass is being held for ABC7's Jim Clarke. He will be buried at Quantico Cemetary (12/28/09)

Mike in Fairfax ... I don't know what you are on to put you in your fantasy pontification world... but find me the RX for it, please. WTEM had the story on the air BEFORE NBC4... George's own employer had it! Why was ESPN 980 "scrambling" and why did they have on syndicated programming?? So they didn't have to just "throw on" someone who sounded idiotic - they waited... and put on their "A players"... like Kornheiser. That's the way pros handle a story, Mike. (12/28/09)

Is it my lustful imagination or has Today’s Kathy Lee Gifford on LOCAL WASHINGTON TV STATION WRC gained a few bust sizes: she looks like about a 44 D these days! Va-va-vooooom: Frank must be happier when he’s high on Viagra. (12/28/09)

Dear Mr. Gibson, When I posted my comments, I was talking specifically about the sports scene on TV back then, but you are right to draw it out further to other aspects of local broadcasting. Jim Vance is a name that automatically comes to mind with me as well. And, certainly, I remember hearing Y.D.B. on WTOP, too. With your experience at WEBR, what other DJs at that station should we be aware of. I'm honestly interested to find out. Sincerely, James (12/28/09)

Re: "Does anyone remember ex Channel 13 Sports Director The Late John Kennely?" I was pretty young at the time, but he was the first sportscaster of whom I have any recollection, but only that he used to give out a "Good guy White Hat award" or some such thing after each Orioles game. And that he was sponsored by Ezrine Tires, whose jingle I still remember. "When it comes to tires, all the wisest buyers, come to Ezrine Tires, for tires they require..." Maybe someone can add to or correct this mid to late 60s childhood recollection, and perhaps remind me of the second verse of that Ezrine song. Bob A. in Pikesville, MD. (12/28/09)

There should be no surprise that the Obama admin. would let the must carry rule slide. You have to remember that DTV and release of spectrum for other more valuable uses began under Clinton/Gore. This administration made it clear early on that it had no use for ancient analog methods of distribution such as terrestrial OTA radio and TV. Too bad if the poor can't get their TV, this administration only wants stuff they can track (your consumption of content ), tax (the connections that deliver the content) and auction (the spectrum if th3 content-connection is via RF). You really thought Obama would help the poor? No wonder Bush smiles in recent photos. (12/28/09)

Dave's response: Yeah, that's what the poor want - their chunk of the DTV spectrum! More important than jobs, food, clothing, shelter, and health care? Yeah, right.....

I see Steve Doocy's son is reporting for Fox now...I wonder how he got the gig? Nepotism rocks! Anyway, he looks like a smug douche just like his dad...lol (12/28/09)

Dave, I am hearing Kirk McKewen back in 98 Rock this morning, think he is filling in for Amelia. It sounds like he is doing comedy at 98 Rocks New Years Eve event. Do you know what's going on? Is 105.9 the Edge Ok with this? Very curious, thanks, Hugh (12/28/09)

Dave's response: Yeah, we reported that last week. And it's being done with 105.9's blessing. I guess since the two stations are in different markets, they don't see themselves as direct competitors.....

"Radio DJ Schizophrenia has been called a cruel disease, one that impairs life greatly in a degenerative fashion, altering emotions and various abilities to reason greatly." -Hmmm...looks as if the mailbag has suddenly become the jokebag...and a poor one at that. (12/28/09)

James, the company of great voices around here remains solid in my humble opinion. Just because certain individuals have chosen not be on the air at this time certainly does not mean the active ones are less than stellar. Personally, I feel that the greatest on air voice in history Johnny Dark is not accessible locally on "regular radio" does not mean we don't have superstars in waiting. I am extremely thankful that I was able to listen and learn from Johnny while he was active around here. There are MORE than a handful of others I could name. Folks like Jim Vance and Doreen over at WRC as Jim is a DC icon. You were right on in your mention of Frank Herzog. You see the "Corporate Suits" (as opposed to the "Unsigned") corporate suits are in total control of the respective futures of these folks. Hell I had even grown accustomed to hearing "Y.D.B." on WTOP for a period of time. Don't you think it's about time for someone to speak up on behalf of these folks before they "fly away"? Which is part of what this forum represents. Do you agree Dave? I mean we even have a number of worthy candidates at WEBR Sorry to ramble on but my grandfather used to say I vaccinated with a phonograph needle. Rusty Gibson, WEBR/Radio Fairfax (12/28/09)

Now that I think about it, I am kind of pissed about the LaVar situation. He would always talk about "being a good guy" and he really had me sold that he had a moral compass. So, the way restaurant closed, shows he is full of shit or something. He better have a good explanation, or my respect for him is gone. I hope those employees get paid -- Otherwise, I have a feeling they will be showing up at WJFK! (12/28/09)

As predicted, Enberg was terrible, constantly having to correct himself or being corrected. Oh, and contrary to the Deadskins fan, the Ravens are still playoff bound. But, I guess when you know your team is out of it by week 5, you stop following the standings! LMAO (12/28/09)

If Tony Kornheiser’s to be believed, WTEM hadn’t intended to run any local programming last Thursday and he was solely responsible for the decision to go wall-to-wall with reaction to the breaking news of George Michael's passing starting shortly after noon. Apparently Red Zebra had decided to give its entire on-air staff the day off and Kornheiser was enroute to the beach when he tuned in 980 and noticed that the syndicated ESPN Radio hosts weren’t talking much about this story - so he turned his car around and headed straight for the station where he spent nearly three hours reminiscing about the legendary Channel 4 anchor with Andy Pollin and the usual inner circle guests (Feinstein, Wilbon, Aldrich, etc.). Perhaps he fancies himself the sports equivalent of Walter Cronkite reacting to word that John F. Kennedy had been shot and rushing to get CBS News on the air, but it’s reasonable to suppose that Pollin (who's very good at this big event type programming) would have seen fit to put together some sort of tribute show even if Kornheiser had never shown up. The larger point is that 980 allowed itself to be caught off guard and forced to scramble while (by contrast) its competitor 106.7 The Fan had planned to stay local all day long regardless of whether huge news broke. The Junkies were in best-of mode but Bill Rohland and Liz Drabek co-hosted Mike Wise’s program (with Wise calling in to discuss Michael) followed by Brian Mitchell and Holden Kushner filling in for Arrington and Dukes, and (with one notable exception) the parade of guests on WJFK was at least as good as WTEM‘s. Kornheiser did provide some interesting anecdotes from his years of association with King George on shows like "Full Court Press", but his adamant refusal to field calls was a factor getting in the way of the station’s coverage (it wasn’t until after he’d left and been replaced by Doc Walker that they finally went to the phones for reaction from listeners). The one questionable guest on 106.7 was NFL Players Association official DeMaurice Smith who named “Lynn Czarnetzky” as a local sports anchor likely to carry on the Michael legacy. Mitchell and Kushner should have probably ended the interview right then and there - anyone who botches Lindsay Czarniak’s name that badly doesn’t deserve to stay on the air. Over on the TV side, it was disappointing that Channel 7 chose to devote only about a minute to this story on Thursday’s 6 PM newscast. Inasmuch as Gordon Peterson, Maureen Bunyan and Doug Hill all worked with the late, great Glenn Brenner at Channel 9 back in the day, you’d assume they have some appreciation for what Michael meant to the DC area and could have lobbied their bosses for a bit more coverage than that. Mike, Fairfax (12/28/09)

Radio DJ Schizophrenia has been called a cruel disease, one that impairs life greatly in a degenerative fashion, altering emotions and various abilities to reason greatly. This unfortunate disease is quite common, effecting about one to two percent of the World's DJ population. Which is why watching Mike Sorce in his twilight radio years try to justify his latest career move as positive and "humbling" is beyond painful. Radio DJ Schizophrenia is a complex disease which lacks central characteristics. It is thought to almost be considered a compilation of multiple related disorders - like a fucked-up personal & radio career. With the DCRTV couch firmly in place and Kenny Rodgers 'Gambler' playing in the background, time for Sorce to be reminded that there is no cure for this common, debilitating disease, only treatments that, in his case, calls for him to just walk away. Radio DJ Schizophrenia is a difficult disease that many former relevant jocks chose to hide, which simply adds to the industry & societal stigma that only causes more pain to those that suffer from it and their on-line "friends" and enabling family. CBS Management laughing aside, please tell Sorce that he is NOW & in the future, more likely to be outfitted with a radio straight-jacket than expect ANY MEANINGFUL INDUSTRY RESPECT like George Michael or a limo ride from Dan Mason. If he wasn't going to outfit him with CAREER PRIDE, at least Santa should have given Sorce a Ham Radio set-up to go with his new headphones. AHHHHHHHH (12/28/09)

Famous 56 WFIL George Michael Salute page is up www.famous56.com... John T. Henneman (12/28/09)

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\/ December 27 Messages \/

Dave, why does The Fan keep bringing back all of these ex-WTEM re-treads (like Scott Jackson, Earl Force, etc.,? Can't these guys get other jobs in other markets, or are they that pathethic that The Fan has to offer them these fill-in spots. Move on with your lives! Even that no-talent Liz Drabick just replicates the same exact news updates as 980 does now. Maybe if The Fan wanted to separate themselves from the pack, they would not copy the same exact format, shows, and programming that 980 uses. Not a sermon, just a thought. (12/27/09)

The whiny Ravens fan shouldn't laugh too hard, given that his or her team was beaten today by a mediocre Steelers team and probably knocked out of the playoffs. (12/27/09)

"Local girl done good" Amy Robach is anchoring the NBC Evening News..I think it's only a matter of time before she gets to sit in the "big chair" permanently..Any predictions on how long before that will happen? (12/27/09)

To the previous poster asking about former TV3 Winchester anchor/reporter Katie Killen - she is now at WLOS-TV Channel 13 in Asheville, NC. No bio yet, but her picture has been posted. Al McGilvray (12/27/09)

What's the latest on funeral arrangements for George Michael? (12/27/09)

Remember a few months ago when a web page appeared called "The Truth About Sima Senior", a local response to Sima Birach Sr.s accusations and interview on Inside Radio? The page appears to now be gone. The Internet Archives site also cannot find it. Too bad, it was a hilarious read. (12/27/09)

(regarding a previous post) "The sooner people stop swooning over politicians promises, the better off we will all be." YES! Let's start with Sarah Palin. And, I think it's high time that the hypnotized rightwing masses also stop swooning over the corpse of Ronald Reagan. (12/27/09)

Sorry to rain on a parade, but Donnie G spins oldies: BFD! I was a huge D&M fan, but him spinning records (or playing CD's) is meaningless. I listened to them because Don and Mike were funny. I liked them as talk show hosts or "personalities", not music DJ's. If I want music, that's why God and Steve Jobs invented the Ipod. (12/27/09)

Commenting on someone who is all bent that Obama is allowing the FCC to abandon the must carry rule, all I have to say is did you really think he mean all this hope and change stuff? The only person you can trust is yourself. The sooner people stop swooning over politicians promises,the better off we will all be. Porter F Jervis (12/27/09)

Wow: one would expect instead of a simple link to an AP story DRUDGE to be using the old flashing siren with the new report of a Nigerian passenger on the same Amsterdam to Detroit flight acting dicey: locked himself in the plane’s bathroom for an hour. In the old days, that would mean he was snorting coke: these days it means who knows what -- bad airline food or a terrorist attack? (12/27/09)

To Unsigned Corporate Suit: Okay..I punched up 48.1..no soap..no signal! But this brings up a question: I seem to recall reading here in this mailbag that a digital television (or a digital converter box..which is what I am using)..would read the channel as "channel 4..or "4.1"..is this correct? Also want to thank Burt from Denton MD. for helping me to know that I didn't just "dream" that I heard George Michael on some Orioles broadcasts! I would have loved to have seen the tribute that channel 4 did! But unless the reception is really good sometime, guess I can pretty much forget about receiving NBC-4 as it just isn't coming in at my location..although I think maybe I did pick it up late one night; can't remember if it was before or after the digital switch! Tom in Denton, MD (12/27/09)

If you were a sports fan (Even if you didn't care for the DC/Balmer teams) living in the area during the 1980's, the local news was a blessing of talent. George Michael on 4, Glenn Brenner and James Brown on 9, and Frank Herzog on 7. How many media markets (Even the bigger ones), could boast that much talent and entertainment. It's a shame that Mr. Michael has joined Mr. Brenner in passing. Mercifully, we still have class acts like Mr. Herzog (I'll admit tolistening to WTOP, in part, to hear the voice that Larry Michael took from us) and Mr. Brown. Let's savor these highly respected men while we can. We'll never have that era back, but it was sure something. Sincerely, James (12/27/09)

Dick Enberg makes tons of mistakes. I used to love him, but he needs to retire in my opinion, so I don't think it's a whiny complaint. The Steelers/Ravens game should have gotten the #2 CBS crew being an almost national telecast. Obviously I ticked off a disgruntled and depressed Jets or Deadskins fan. Eat your morning crow & good luck next year! LMAO (12/27/09)

Update: The FCC is now giving out waivers to Cablevision and Time Warner too in addition to Comcast to encrypt all LOCAL TV stations. It looks like the must carry rule is officially dead as well as cable ready TV sets. engadget.com... And yet I've read nothing about these "waivers" and you won't see this FCC news about giving them out to huge cable corporations anywhere, no media outlet would risk the wrath of losing the cable operators' huge advertising buys, including DCRTV. It's just unbelievable how this got unreported. The FCC's anti-consumer actions also pretty much destroys the myth that Republicans are the party of big business and Democrats are the party of the poor & middle class. If this were Bush, it would be expected. Where's Obama's "change" at the FCC? They're just doing the same damn thing, rubberstamping approvals for huge corporations at the expense of the general public and we're paying the price tag. What's going to happen to poor people and elderly on "lifeline" cable? What kind of lifeline is it when all the news channels, locals, & weather channels are gone & all they are stuck with is community/public access channels & QVC & Home Shopping Network? What an utter disgrace this FCC "waiver" decision is. This waiver will ultimately cost consumers at least hundreds of thousands of dollars if not millions because the cable companies are only giving out the boxes for free for a limited time. It's like giving out free crack to somebody, getting them hooked, then taking all their money. And yet no one will ever read or hear about it except on tech sites which the cable companies do not advertise on & possibly the DCRTV mailbag. Well maybe. Even this post might get lost in the trash folder, who knows. Nothing surprises me anymore. (12/27/09)

Dave's response: Even basic cable is not a god-given right. You have to pay for it. If cable companies want to make sure that only people who pay for basic cable can get it, I have no problem with that. Don't like that? Go put up an antenna and watch for free.....

Dan Fouts is one of the best analysts calling football games. Which actually means the Ravens aren't getting dissed at all. Geez, Ravens fans are such whiny cocksuckers. Stop looking at the supposed stature of PBP guys and think about the other guy in the booth, or, you know, just STFU and enjoy the game. There's nothing worse than a whiny ass football fan, especially in Baltimore. (12/27/09)

Baltimore Ravens get dissed again. Just noticed CBS didn't give the Ravens at Steelers game with big playoff implications either of their top 2 announcing teams for today's game on CBS even though the game is going to be seen in most of the country as well. Instead, they sent their #2 team to Indy vs. Jets, which will be seen in much less of the country, not to mention the Jets are going to get crushed unless Peyton sits for the whole game or breaks a leg. What's up with that? (12/27/09)

THE END OF CABLE-READY TV SETS PART 5...... The dirty little secrets of COMCAST's "Project Cavalry" and a recent FCC ruling. www.silicondust.com... This details what's even more disgusting about encryption of cable TV channels, the DMCA law, digital content protection in general and a recent FCC ruling. If you don't rent a box from COMCAST for every TV or device in your home, not only will you lose all the regular cable channels soon, there's more bad news. Most people assume the FCC's must carry rules require the locals' coverage, but that's no longer true since the DTV conversion due to the FCC giving COMCAST a waiver. YOU WILL ALSO SOON LOSE ALL YOUR HD LOCALS ON COMCAST CABLE! Yes, this means WMAR-DT, WRC-DT, WTTG-DT, WJLA-DT, WUSA-DT, WBAL-DT, WJZ-DT, WBFF-DT, etc. will soon all be gone without paying COMCAST EXTRA for each TV in your home! And even those using a QAM equipped DTV converter box on an old NTSC TV set from the DTV Coupon program will also lose their HD cable locals (I know the program was technically ONLY for OTA TV, but most people don't realize that). So if you thought you were still going to be able to watch your local network station HD channels on a spare bedroom or kitchen Cable-Ready HDTV that's Clear QAM capable after the COMCAST DTV switch, you thought wrong. Comcast won't comment on this to The Washington Post, but they definitely have been given the OK by the FCC to encrypt practically everything soon including locals, in essence rendering every new HDTV set at BEST BUY virtually useless on its own for any HDTV reception but OTA w/ an antenna. And if you have a brand new media PC with a QAM tuner card or DVR? Once again, virtually useless on its own. Am I the only person who thinks this is beyond crazy and anti-consumer if not illegal? I personally think it should be illegal to sell an HDTV set as Cable-Ready when soon, no such TV or tuner device will work that way ever again on any TV service in the U.S. Just think how many HDTV sets & tuner devices were falsely advertised & sold in the last 5-10 years as "Cable-Ready". FCC, Congress, are you listening? Class Action lawyers? Hello! The startling irony in all of this is that free over the air TV will soon give you a better picture in high definition than paying COMCAST for limited basic! Is that crazy or what? All of this will happen some time in 2010 if it hasn't already started in your COMCAST area. Enjoy. Or contact your Congressman or the FCC or COMCAST and complain. (12/27/09)

The holiday gift that just won't stop giving...... The Baltimore Sun's David Zurawik / Z on TV + Jon & Kate + 8 baltimoresun.com... Somebody please make it stop! (12/27/09)

Here's a link to the New York Times obituary of Percy Sutton. www.nytimes.com... One of his companies, Inner City Broadcasting, owned WLIB-AM in NYC, which was the original flagship station of Air America Radio, when it launched in 2004. (12/27/09)

Listened to Don G this evening on WCBS FM NYC. He is great, maybe little bit rusty, but it's great to hear this superb radio talent and entertainer on the radio again. He knows how to do that excitement, talk over lead in to a song, right up to the second... Keep it up Man :) Robert, Arlington (12/27/09)

I'm not overly impressed with WJFK. Arrington's show is terrible and Wise doesn't do much for me. The Junkies are old news. BUT there are two things that the station should get props for: local programming in the weekday evenings when there are no games and local programming on weekends. Even though some of the local weekend hosts are pretty lame, it is still better than listening to the syndicated sports junk that ESPN 980 runs. (12/27/09)

/\ December 27 Messages /\

\/ December 26 Messages \/

He is pretty bad on CBS FM. Maybe really bad. Glad I am not the PD at ome trying to relax hearing his weak stuff. Are you listening Dave? Even your bud Jack Diamond sounds about 100% more professional and polished. Pig Latin on the radio? A falling silo accident at a barn staff meeting so he can get a regular slot? In New York? Are you kidding? Happy New Year, better luck with mentoring some of the other locals. LG (12/26/09)

Dave I am listening on line to Don on WCBS-FM and he is just the way I remember him from WPGC. He just mentioned George Michael. Wouldn't it be great to have back on around here on a great Oldie station like WCBS-FM? Thanks, Ron in Annapolis (12/26/09)

Dave what is Urban Hits AMP is it a Urban/Top 40 combo format I do not understand Is It like CHR/pop? (12/26/09)

Dave's response: It's this.....

''How sad and pathetic''. The only real sad and pathetic thing is YOU looking for said ''radio gods'' dogs pictures on Twitter. If you really thought it was ''sad and pathetic'', YOU wouldn't go looking for it. You...are...a...Fucking....MORON! Paul (12/26/09)

From the mind of SOC. CCChhiiiCCCCAAAAAGGGGGOOOOOOOOOO! RIP (12/26/09)

ch-ch-ch-CHANGES!!!!! 94.7 WIAD Bethesda.....HFS Ninety Four Seven HD2?!??!??!!!! Did I ..HEAR that correctly? HFS? Not HFS2?? You...magnificent Klingon bastards ....you .. said H....F....S.....!!!!!!!!!! OK back to Earth. WTF is going on over there? Would CBS change the TGB calls to WIAD just to change again to WHFS? Or is this a prep for slapping the golden letters on another stick all thier own? Is the insanity of the double 0s dying with the decade? Could the collective CBS FM IQ now be higher than 05? Was an exec visited by the ghosts of HFS past? Tribbles? Doctor Who? The spectre of Jake Einstein? All I can say for sure is when I heard those call minus the 'Junior' numeral I felt like a whole BUNCH of freaks!!!!!!!!!! I can only hope this is a sign of good things to come for MD/DC FM radio. Evolve991 in...anticipation... (12/26/09)

Dave's response: We DC radio listeners certainly deserve something good to happen in early 2010. Gawd, I hope so. CBS could flip the WHFS calls from 1580 to 94.7 and give DC its own AAAer, a la CBS's WXRT in Chicago. And then make 95.5 WIAD, urban hits Amp, and put the WPGC calls on 99.1 as classic R&B and smooth jazz. Hmmmm.....

(Mailbag Snippet: (I believe someone else here said that there needs to be a rule that people in this forum cannot plug their own shows. As such, I read Mr. Bicknell mention the fact that he will be appearing on WEBR soon. Mr.Bicknell did not mention HIS show. He mentioned he would be appearing on WEBR. Note: He also appeared on OTP and that was posted in the mailbag and NOT by him. I also note many posts about appreances and shows from others in the mailbag? Someone PARANOID??? I can't wait to find out where Mr. Bicknell will be APPEARING??? (12/26/09)

The great, but not-yet-late Frank Luber in '65 from his CAO days. (12/26/09)

Dave, I too grew up in Philly with George. Go to famous56.com and you can find old airchecks of him and all the Boss Jocks. I crossed paths with him too...I did some freelance editing at 4 in News but never approahced him. Also, would see him at lockerroom stuff or pressers...he was TOUGH and had some Barnum in him. D (12/26/09)

Dave's response: I didn't actually grow up in Philly, but over in the New Jersey suburbs.....

what is up with espn 980. That has to be one of the most unaware operations I have ever heard. Besides the fact that their EAS tests always interrupt programming - and no one notices - this morning was a CF ofmassive proportions. At 10:54 they ended some fantasy sports show and went directly to dead air for 6 minutes! The automation system kicked in at 11:00 but there was nothing in between. Whoever is overseeing the operations of that station is obviously unaware of, well, operations. These are simple, basic issues that any second year broadcast school student would know how to solve. Way to pay attention to details, boys. (12/26/09)

How often over the past 50 days or so did we have to choke down the song "Last Christmas" by WHAM? Did you know that, because of melodic similarities with Barry Manilow's "Can't Smile Without You", WHAM agreed out-of-court to donate the first year's royalties of that song to "Band Aid"? It was on Wikipedia, so it's gotta be true ... -g-... (12/26/09)

Geronimo:: Mike Sorce, when your sorry, washed-up, long holiday weekend commute into NYC self sits down tonight to fill-in for legendary jock Joe Causi, answer us this one question, HOW DOES OUR ASS TASTE NOW - ASS? CBS Radio Management. AHHHHHHH (12/26/09)

Quote: "If that former radio god posts one more picture of his dopey dog on his Twitter page I think I'm gonna puke. How sad and pathetic." . . . Gee, unless I'm missing something, no one is forcing you to look at those pictures OR even to read said twitter page. How sad and pathetic that YOU find it necessary to even make such a comment. Puke away Bucko. (12/26/09)

IF SOMEONE'S GOING TO HATE, AT LEAST HE SHOULD GET HIS SPELLING STRAIGHT (AND HIS GRAMMAR, TOO.) How many errors can **you** find? "Worst - Jim Handley WRC is boring. Tony Perkins trying to anchor news at WTTG. He is terrible at it... The weekend weather guy WJLA Steve Rudin who always sounds like he has rehearsed a script word for word. Needs to loosen up. Time for Bob Ryan to retire. The Lindsey high school like kid doing sports at WTTG. Brian Bolter WTTG too sensationalized. Will Thomas and his giggling. WTTG's Maureen Umen pronounces words wrong"....." (12/26/09)

If that former radio god posts one more picture of his dopey dog on his Twitter page I think I'm gonna puke. How sad and pathetic. (12/26/09)

To Johnny Dark, thanks for the kind words. I can remember listening to you for many years on WCAO and later on when you worked at Oldies 100 and WQSR. How i wish you were on the air and still playing those oldies. My most vivid memory of you came late on a Saturday morning, I think it was the spring of 1963 or 1964 when you announced that there had been an escalator accident at Memorial Stadium. This involved a group of safety patrol youngsters and my sister was at the game. We all were frantic that day until my sister arrived safely home early that evening. With no cell phones and our attempts to try to get information stymied, all we could do was wait. Thanks Johnny for all the great tunes and memories. When i heard that George Michael had passed, i felt much the same way as I did when Glenn Brenner passed. DC Sports TV will never be the same. I still remember watching Channel 9 news one Saturday night and wondering why Gordon Petersen was anchoring the news that night. When he announced that Glenn Brenner had an inoperable tumor, I woke my wife up to tell her the news. Glenn and George were truly the best in DC! Burt in Denton (12/26/09)

Reading, watching, and listening to all this material on George Michael (A true legend in this area) has brought back thoughts of the late, great Glenn Brenner. Can anyone mention a greater era in local evening news sports broadcasting in D.C. or any other media market than what we were treated to? I need some clarification here from others on the Mailbag. I believe someone else here said that there needs to be a rule that people in this forum cannot plug their own shows. As such, I read Mr. Bicknell mention the fact that he will be appearing on WEBR soon. Is this a violation of the informal rule? Or, is does this rule not apply because this Mailbag is all about Mr. Bicknell? If the rule does apply, will we all be treated to some of his other personas on this Mailbag? And since he will be appearing on WEBR, will this make him, dare I say it? Or perhaps visually post it? Yes...a.... (12/26/09)

Some vintage George Michael clips off youtube... (12/26/09)

A thanks go out to the great Johnny Dark and others for correcting me as I erroneously reported Frank Luber's demise. I stand corrected gang. Oh well, open mouth insert foot! Rusty Gibson, WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/26/09)

/\ December 26 Messages /\

\/ December 25 Messages \/

Rusty Gibson referred to "the late" Frank Luber on Channel 13. Frank, I'm glad to say is above ground and a part of the morning team on WCBM. Has been for a number of years. A tip of my cap to Burt in Denton for remembering George Michael on Baltimore Orioles broadcasts. He was a top-rated jock in Philly then and took his vacation time off to fill in for vacationing Oriole broadcasters....Speaking of George, although he loved his sports career, he never lost his passion for the "oldies." When I was on WBIG-FM at night, the "warm line" would light up occasionally and there would be George driving home and listening to us. One particular night, he called right after I played a Jack Scott goodie called "Goodbye Baby." His comment was "I know that one isn't in the regular rotation. It's so good to hear it again." George brought "passion" to everything he did. He will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family.....Johnny Dark (12/25/09)

Rusty, It's Frank Luber, not Luebber, and ole Frank is still with us. He and Sean Casey have been doing the morning show on WCBM for many years. JohnnyuinHanover,Pa. (12/25/09)

Dave- I had the great honor to do the audio for the last 20 years of The George Michael Sports Machine, as well as Redskins Report and Full Court Press. I use the word "honor" because George expected the highest production values possible from everyone who worked on the crew...and in turn... his expectations made us all better at our craft...and give 110% on each and every broadcast. He was a hard taskmaster, to be sure. He would not hestitate to critique your work, bad or good...and he would hold us accountable for less than stellar performances. But what a gift this was for those of us who took great pride in our careers. George knew production. He knew audio. You could not fake it. You could not lean back and be anything less than serious about the final product. But George was a kind and generous co-worker and friend, as well. He was generous to a fault, often without fanfare. He greeted everyone in the building with a genuine air of sincerity...from building maintenance staff to interns to clerical workers. And he cared... truly cared. When George asked how you were doing...he meant it...he wanted to know. After every Sports Machine, George would come out of the studio...drop off the wireless mics in the audio booth.. and say..."Cole, pretty good show, huh?" Or "Cole...THAT was a goooooood one!" I miss those moments. I miss the utter exhilaration of knowing how people waited every Sunday to tune in to George's special brand of sports television. I miss the unexpected moments when George would drop by the audio room just to (in his words) "shoot the sh...." Ask about the wife and kids. George was bigger than life...a true icon. No doubt about THAT. You knew George was in your presence...whether he walked into a room...or into your home every week. Thank you, George, for touching us all. For Pat, Michelle, and the family, may you find comfort and peace at this difficult time. Coleman Clarke (12/25/09)

Does anyone remember ex Channel 13 Sports Director The Late John Kennely? Well, MLB Channel has been airing KenBurns' brilliant Documentary "Baseball" all day. And John provided some comments about The Cubs And ChiSox. I think he headed for Chicago shortly after he left WJZ. I'm told that he was canned partly because his suits and ties were filthy while on camera. I can still recall the 'EyewitnessNews" team of John, Jerry Turner, George Baughman and Meteorologist Jim Smith Their CityBeat reporter was the late Frank Leubber and Investigative Reporter Christopher Gaul. (who I think was British). OK, and another Christmas Funny; What is the difference between snowmen and Snow Women? A- Snowballs. I'm sure everyone was waiting for that! RustyGiibson, WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/25/09)

Hey Dave,been a fan of your site since 2003.I just wanted to say thanks for all the inside info,and dirt.with that said... Merry Xmas Bro :] (12/25/09)

Dave's response: Thanks.....

Sorry to hear about the passing of George Michael, certainly a sports icon.not just in DC - but nationally as well. I too remember his tribute to the late Glenn Brenner. Those two were the very best, I doubt there will ever be anyone as good as they were covering and reporting sports. And to Tom in Denton, I believe George did some fill in work for the Orioles in the 1970s. Merry Christmas to Dave and to all who read this column. Burt in Denton (12/25/09)

Soon, I will once again be appearing on WEBR...it's in the works. Stand-by...It will be a very interesting and rewarding experience. PLB/Davy Jones. (12/25/09)

LeVar also stiffed all his employees on their last checks 2 days before Christmas. Stay classy, LeVar. Asshole. Paul (12/25/09)

That having been said, it's the internet and therefore don't mean much. I can do the good will toward men (and the ladies too, always pet the sweaty stuff - D.L. Roth) thing too. WTNT AM 570 has a pretty good show today, it's not all the saccharine junk you've heard a million times before. And the Bob Dylan album is really quite good. Mad props to the Pope-tipper !! It's too good for that Hitler Youth bastard. Never forget. I did love him as Cliff on Cheers though. ---- ThePenIsMightier (12/25/09)

First & foremost: Merry Fucking Christmas DCRTV Dave! Great coverage of GM and I think Bruce The Hugger actually beat both you AND Andy & Grandaddy to the punch about his demise on his radio show, BRUCE PLAYS ALL THE HITS ALL THE TIME. And Silvie: are you out there in the terrestrial radio sphere sweet cheeks? You must be jones’ in what with WMAL playing corny Christmas songs all day in lieu of your heroes. Maybe chime in that Chris Plante is the ADOPTED son of Bill Plante as he’s said many times (who needs Wiki when you have a memory). And Lindsay looked very hot in Mourning Black and said nothing but good things about her old boss & MENTOR, GM. Then there’s this LTE in today’s WAPOO: www.washingtonpost.com (12/25/09)

Merry X-mas, DCRTVLand. Now that the day has finally arrived, hopefully we can be relieved from those dreadful and horribly animated CGI commercials for WASH-FM's all X-mas tunes programming. The music that everybody agrees sucks after you've heard the same songs 10 times in one day. (12/25/09)

I prefer the 11s log and music over 50s. Bob Fairfax (12/25/09)

From the Borough of Hanover in the beautiful Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas. JohnnyuinHanover,Pa. P.S. I tuned in Fox 43 this morning to watch the news and they were also showing the fireplace. (12/25/09)

sorry to hear about the passing of george..dc icon (12/25/09)

Re: "Inquiring minds want to know if Chris Plante is related to CBS News' Bill Plante?" Ever heard of Wikipedia? I'm sure you-know-who will just HAVE to chime in on this one. (12/25/09)

Apparently, WDCW 50 wasn't the only station running a continuous Yule log this year. It appears WBAL 11 has produced their own continuous Yule Log video this year and it ran all Christmas Eve night and today on WBAL 11.2. What's funny is that it shows gifts by the fireplace and then zooms into the fireplace, but one of the toys is a toy SkyTeam 11 chopper! I guess they had a toy model helicopter painted with their colors and logo of the new chopper. :-) You only seem a glimpse of it in the beginning and then just the Yule log as it zooms past the presents and stockings and just shows the fire. I don't remember if they did that last year. (12/25/09)

Dave's response: Channel 50 always sent out a nice Christmas card to media whores (like me). Nothing this year. Either they hate me (like almost everyone else in the corporate media biz) or they're cutting back because of their parent Tribune Company's bankruptcy. Hmmm. Oh, I hear that Channel 13 did a "yule log" this morning using some of Marty Bass's old toupes as fuel for the fire. Rimshot.....

(12/25/09)

Anyone know why Santa has no children? A: Because he only comes once a year and that's down the chimney. Just a little holiday humor. Happy Christmas all! Rusty Gibson, WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/25/09)

Dave's response: I was wondering what all that white, sticky stuff was in my fireplace this morning.....

Great interview with Larry Kane and more on George Michael's days in philly www.kyw1060.com... John T. Henneman (12/25/09)

Merry Christmas, Dave and all the Mailbaggers...as Tiny Tim said (before he became famous for singing "Tiptoe Through the Tulips"), God bless us, everyone! -- Bobbie (12/25/09)

Merry Christmas Dave: I want to simply say "great job" on the George Michael coverage..You're a true pro!! Yesterday, I listened to various segments on ESPN980 and except for two-three guests, all I heard were people saying how George had the biggest staff, paid the highest salaries, and was given whatever he wanted. Gee, sounded like plenty of sour grapes coming from Haber and especially Doc. By 2pm, I stopped listening for the day because the over-tones were getting clear. Andy Pollin was as phony as can be and there's no secret George and Andy didn't get along because Andy's mouth got him in trouble..when talking to Len Shapiro or other newspapers about how he really felt about George. Funny, Doc's lucky to have a job in radio/TV and should have thanked George 10-times over for giving him the opportunity when he retired from the Redskins...that really didn't come across the airwaves as well yesterday. I only met George a few times, through mutual friends, but he always took time to ask what I did for a living and was professional...and that's the key, he was a pro. There are very few people left in this media market who are pros!!! (12/25/09)

Here's a link to an article the story behind the decision to bring George Michael WABC Radio in 1974 - complete with some later audio of him there. www.musicradio77.com... This link shows a behind-the-scenes look at George Michael in 1978, at WABC. www.musicradio77.com (12/25/09)

I was too young to really remember, but I grew up hearing "King" George Michael on WFIL in Philly. When my family moved to the DC area, there was George Michael. He will be missed. Legend is not overdoing it when talking about Mr. Michael in this area. And did I see someone use "Merry Christmas" and "bull-s***" [editing added] in the same sentence here? Stay classy, dcrtv.com Mailbag! Let me try it without the profanity. Merry Christmas, everyone. Enjoy these joyous times with your family and friends. That wasn't so hard. Sincerely, James (12/25/09)

Inquiring minds want to know if Chris Plante is related to CBS News' Bill Plante? (12/25/09)

From Flatsky and myself to you and your family, I wish you the Merriest of Christmases and the Happiest and most blessed of New Years. :) (12/25/09)

PEACE-PLB/DAVY JONES (12/25/09)

("Dave, in recent weeks, quite a few posters have noted that ThePenIs brings only ... content to the Mailbag. Now we learn that he is also a liar. Why do you allow his [magnificence] ... up the DCRTV Mailbag? A growing number of folks have even let you know recently that ... ThePenIs may well affect their future [...]. Why do you allow this liar and fool on here?") I have edited your post, Johni An0nymosayswhat, for the sake of concision, a concept it would behoove you to explore (and I also just bought you 20 points on the SAT verbal). Brevity is the soul of lingerie, after all. What's your name again? Speaking of brevity, the break from middle-school is over soon, isn't it? Bit of advice? Keep your distance from the wrestling coach, you're the kind he likes to target. Now, "liar" is a harsh word. I know what I heard, apparently you don't. I sense a Wikipedia editor calling "original research." ---ThePenIsMightier (12/25/09)

Great job of being first, so timely and on top of this news story this (yesterday) morning. I was monitoring and it took other local media outlets at least 30-60 minutes before having this same news. It's too bad Mike Wise was off today, because he actually worked with George (as did I as a production assistant), and The Fan had to put that baby-voiced, condescending, be-atch, Liz Drabick on the air today. George was a real chore to work for, to put it nicely, but he was a master at the craft. Peace! (12/25/09)

Yule log? It's on channel 50 from 8AM ~ 10AM. www.dc50tv.com... Oh, and I'm sorry to see George Michael pass as well. I used to listen to WFIL "Famous 56" on my AM box, as a kid in the suburbs of Philly, back in the 60's. (12/25/09)

/\ December 25 Messages /\

\/ December 24 Messages \/

And Merry Christmas to you too, Mr. Bicknell. Don't forget that you are always welcome on our web based radio show. --John Collings/WEBR (12/24/09)

For Tom in Denton, MD: If you looking for WRC on channel 4, you’ll be sadly disappointed. They’ve been on channel 48 exclusively since the “transition”. The RF carrier should come in just fine at your location. As for getting a stable viewable data stream at any location… Good Luck! In all fairness, WRC-DT is one of the less unreliable ATSC signals at my location, with about 10 dropouts in an average five minute period. –Unsigned Corporate Suit (12/24/09)

I wrote the original email slamming WRC's "Daily Connection" today. Wouldn't you know, about 10 minutes into the show they ran a crawl across the top of the screen saying "This Show was Previously Recorded." The truth came out! I guess they were getting an earful from the public which prompted them to run the crawl. It all makes sense, as I'd seen the show once before with Jim Handly as one of the anchors, then, all of a sudden, he was "off today" when the 4:00 news came on! Still, they could have thrown today's tape away and done a tribute to King George. I remember the day Glenn Brenner passed away, at much too young of an age, and WUSA devoted pretty much their entire evening news block to him. I still remember Ken Mease breaking down on the set and being coforted by Gordon Peterson. George's death is the end of a great era. It used to be that I didn't care for him much, but he grew on me and it was obvious that was very passionate about what he did and it showed. In closing, here is one my favorite George Michael moments. RIP George - you will be missed. -BG (12/24/09)

Hello Dave, I saw one of your e-mail posts that was slamming Lindsey Czarniack and Jim Handly because of their cavalier attitude on the 3pm Daily Connection program today. I used to be a director at WRC and worked on The Sports Machine and knew George well. I copied the post and sent it to my friend Wendy Rieger. She responds to me that they had actually taped that show tuesday night before the news of George's death. Can you believe they taped a so-called news program that is assumed by the viewer to be live! So don't hate the players, hate the game of television, it no longer resembles the game i signed up for. (12/24/09)

If I don't forget, will try and see if I can get NBC-4 to come in for me here on the eastern shore as I would imagine they'll do another tribute to George on the eleven o'clock news. But I very seldom have been able to pick up channel 4 since it went "digital!" Tom in Denton, MD. (12/24/09)

Was quite saddened to hear about the passing of George Michael..With it being said that he had been battling cancer for 2 yrs, I'm supposing that may have been a contributing factor in his decision to retire back in 2007..Can't imagine him wanting the viewing audience watch him possibly lose weight and look sickly (if indeed that happened) on the air..I truly enjoyed the Redskins Report and was quite disappointed to see it cancelled...Such a loss...And Dave, with all due respect, is it really that important to you to claim to have broken this news first?..I really don't care who breaks a story..Especially in this case.. (12/24/09)

(regarding a previous post) "WMAL's Grandy and Andy broke the news of George Michael's death before you did. Sorry, I know that must "really, really, really" get to you." Dave, in recent weeks, quite a few posters have noted that ThePenIs brings only inane, idiotic, rambling, irrelevant, pointless and offensive content to the Mailbag. Now we learn that he is also a liar. Why do you allow his crap to clog up the DCRTV Mailbag? A growing number of folks have even let you know recently that the inclusion of these asinine rants of ThePenIs may well affect their future financial support and whether or not they'll even continue visiting your otherwise fine site. Why do you allow this liar and fool on here? (12/24/09)

A highlight of the Christmas season last year was the airing of classic radio shows with a holiday theme on WHFC. These comedies and dramas are a nice alternative to the usual holiday music. Here's the link to listen: www.whfc911.org (12/24/09)

Dave, WMAL's Grandy and Andy broke the news of George Michael's death before you did. Sorry, I know that must "really, really, really" get to you. On the bright side, his only plans for tomorrow involved Chinese food. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/24/09)

Dave's response: I listened to G&A this morning and they didn't.....

The moving piece of George on tonight's news brought a tear. How lucky we all were to have had him as part of our lives. One of the snippets mentioned the name of one of his former lieutenants (Scott Clarke), Anyone know where he is now? Merry "Ho-Ho" all. Rusty Gibson, PROUDLY a "webber", WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/24/09)

The George Michael approach: "I've always tried to live by what is really a football saying: 'The measure of any man's greatness has to be determined by the degree of his commitment to excellence in his field'". (Closing of his last show at WFIL Radio in Philadelphia on September 6 1974...before starting at WABC in New York three days later...before coming to WRC in 1980.) I was the radio tech at the console across the WFIL control room glass from him. Some of the staff from Channel 4 have been saying that he was very demanding...and he was....but he was more demanding of himself. "Excellence" wasn't a "some of the time" concept...it was ALL the time. And if you committed to excellence while working for him – as several of his sports staff have said – it was magical. It was a privilege to work with him. (12/24/09)

Having spent 27 years on the air in Washington,,,WMZQ (2 tours),,,WBIG (then Oldies-100),,,WGAY and WASH,,,I remember that each first day at a new gig would include a congratulatory phone call from George Michael. I was always moved by what a thoughtful and downright nice thing that was to do from someone I had only met on a few professional occasions.---Jim London (12/24/09)

George Michael was a giant in tv sports broadcasting. When he and Brenner went head to head, it was our version of Magic against Bird or Ovie against Crosby. Redskins Report was the best local sports show I've ever seen bar none. And ESPN owes everything to Michael's Sports Machine. We were lucky to have him here. (12/24/09)

Listening to George Michael airchecks .One thing is sure from his arrival to WFIL in 1966 to his last days at WRC George remained through the decades committed to excellence. His airchecks are masterpieces and a tribute to the Golden era of Rock Radio. Take a listen to George in 1966 then in his final show on WFIL .He grew with every broadcast www.famous56.com... RIP George. John T. Henneman (12/24/09)

I never met George Michael, but he sent me a "Thank You" note and an autographed photo once. Early on, in his tenure at WRC, the station set up a phone number for viewers to call and get sports results. George mentioned it a lot on the air, but viewers didn't always write down the number, so they called "411" to get it. I was a directory assistance operator for C&P Telephone then, but in an early example of poor planning at WRC, nobody had bothered to have the phone number listed as "Sports Phone" (or whatever the hell they called it). So when people would call "411" for the number, it wasn't in our records for us to give it to them. I sent George a letter about this and pretty soon, the number was correctly listed with directory assistance - and George sent me a note of thanks and a photo. Stations these days, are often sloppy in how they execute programs and promotions, but the personal touch that George showed is rare - if not altogether gone. And speaking of screw-ups -- right before George Michael hit town, the Washington Post printed a blurb about it, using his full name. I don't remember what it was, but the DCRTV poster who often shares vintage newspapers articles here, will probably be able to find it. (12/24/09)

(12/24/09)

I just punched in Fresh 947 and caught Ken Merson. Sounds as if CBS is serious about turning the station a winner. Hope so. (12/24/09)

Dave said: "it is kinda funny that the mighty Post and its staff of highly paid "journalists" just simply can't acknowledge that it got beat on a huge local news story this morning by a one-man website." Is it any wonder why they're losing readership? At least you can sleep at night, Dave. Also, I just watched a moving tribute on NBC4 to Mr. Michael -- his relationship with Jim Vance was amazing... I laughed for 10 whole minutes after watching the piece. Rest In Peace, Sir. -Silvie- (12/24/09)

Dave's response: I saw some of that, too. You get the feeling that it isn't just George Michael's death, but also the death of an entire type of full-service local TV news. There will be no more George Michaels and 20-person local station sports departments in the future TV news business. That's the sad, cold truth. An era is over.....

I love the "goodwill" on the site during this time of year. We've lost a true legend that contributed to Television, Radio and the creation of GREAT sports presentations not only in DC, but nationwide. George was a true one of a kind and I'm proud to have known him. Also I saw the angry post from the tenacious Mr. Collings. Your interpretation of my feelings regarding Rusty (Gibson) and his abilities as a "webber" were so twisted it's actually a shame. Evidently you can't get me out of your sick mind. As for me, I'd actually forgotten you even existed. Mr.Collings,post away. Dave, if you waste your time with this any longer on your site you're wasting everybody's time and space.Merry Christmas Mr. Collings, and I do mean that, bury the bull-shit-PLB/Davy Jones (12/24/09)

Elliot Segal used to call George Michael whenever he had a question, mostly just to torment George. In November 2006, Elliot spoke with George about his retirement from WRC. Oddly enough, George also commented about his November 2005 horseback riding accident in which he was severely injured. George said he, "Saw the other side and wasn't afraid." Audio: eitmfans.blogspot.com... RIP George Michael! -- Josh (12/24/09)

TO ALL MEDIA: Do the right thing during your broadcasts and give DCRTV credit for breaking the news of George Michael's death! Thank you. -Silvie- (12/24/09)

Dave's response: I don't mean to harp on it, but it is kinda funny that the mighty Post and its staff of highly paid "journalists" just can't acknowledge that they got beat on a huge local news story this morning by a one-man website. I really really really get under their skin and they can't stand it.....

Dave, Read your piece on George Michael?, I grew up on WFIL in philly as well. Then along came WMMR and , 98.1 (I think). Terry "motor mouth".... Thanks for stirring the great memories of Philly radio. (12/24/09)

Dave's response: That's George in the lower right, in ever so "mod" orange and yellow. A WFIL "boss jocks" photo from 1969-ish (below).....

To Joi-Marie at dc-fab: you two bit attention whore. Congratulations! While you managed to find out that yet another WJFK host had a restaurant go belly up (must be a requirement to host on WJFK afternoons), Dave Hughes has been busy breaking REAL news about the passing of the legend George Michael, someone that you wouldn't be worthy of wiping his nose, let alone being 1/100000000000th the broadcaster. Spending 20 seconds on that abortion of a site of yours leads me to say you are just ditzy enough to be a poor man's Tyra Banks. Please be sure to tell us when Lavar and Dukes take the next step and are podcasting from their living room. (12/24/09)

I remember George Michael’s tribute to Glenn Brenner after Glenn’s passing. And now, we’ve lost George, as well. Like others have said, God Bless You, George. But, I’d also like to thank George’s family for sharing him with us for so many years. I can easily imagine George saying after being welcomed to Heaven by Glenn Brenner, “Glenn, good to see you again old buddy. You should see what we added in D.C. since you left! No, it’s better than that baseball team that moved from Montreal. It’s… DCRTV!” Indeed a very sad day in Washington radio and television. But, rather than mourn George’s passing, let’s go to the DVD files and celebrate George’s life instead. –Unsigned Corporate Suit (12/24/09)

I never watch WRC's "Daily Connection" at 3:00 because I'm usually at work, but I tuned in today fully expecting a tribute to the great George Michael. Nope. Jim Handly and Lindasay Czarniak (the one who owes her career to George) were just having a good ol' time, standing there perky as hell and laughing as the show opened, at which point they led off with a story about last-minute holiday shopping. How classless. Boo to NBC4 on this one. (12/24/09)

Condolences go out to the family of George Michael. Very few can be considered more of a DC legend than George. Some of my fondest off-field Redskins memories centered around George Michael and The Redskins Report, which in my opinion was a show that was ahead of it's time. You will be missed George. Your appearances on Elliot and Don & Mike only make it that much harder to say goodbye. Now, on to regular business. One Paul Bicknell and his comment directed at Rusty Gibson. "Best Webber"? Coming from you, Bicknell....that's translated to mean "You're on a meaningless medium, but you're the best of all the no talents who broadcast on that medium". Very nice backhanded comment. You detest anyone who does a web based show. You've clearly exhibited that in this very forum on countless occasions. Stop with your normal condensending BS. -John Collings/WEBR (12/24/09)

I was listening to WASH-FM coming home from work today when Maureen McLain announced a little bit after 1 PM that George Michael had died. I have nothing but warm and fond memories about this Washington, DC sportscasting giant. His "Sports Machine" was the go-to show to watch on Sunday nights, especially during football season. He brought us "up close and personal" with his interviews with legendary and contemporary sports figures. And Saturdays were filled with lively debates about the Redskins, Bullets/Wizards, Capitals and other subjects on his "Redskins Report" and "Full Court Press" programs. He also had bit parts in movies such as "Silence Of The Lambs" and "8 Seconds", during which he recreated his interview with Lane Frost (portrayed in the film by Luke Perry) that was conducted just moments before Frost's fatal bull ride. George and Jim Vance had a strong working relationship and friendship that showed during the newscasts on NBC4, much in the same way Glenn Brenner and Gordon Peterson did at Channel 9 during the 1980's. I doubt if we will ever see that kind of camaraderie in this town again (or in any market, to say the least) with all the budget cuts, more commercial time and emphasis on sensationalism in today's newscasts, but George Michael's influence can be seen today at ESPN, Comcast SportsNet and other broadcasting and broadband outlets all over the country and around the world. One of the last times I heard George was an interview he did with Mike Wise over the summer on WJFK-FM (106.7 The Fan). I hope they have a podcast of that interview available for download. Rest in Peace, George. Thank you for being part of our lives here in Washington. Abe Pollin, Jack Kent Cooke and Glenn Brenner are welcoming you to sports heaven. (12/24/09)

Interesting comments about the sadly late George Michael and his KBTR/KBTV Denver days. Interesting had George Michael been a success in Denver chances are he would be unknown to anyone along the east coast today, much less at WRC-TV and WABC radio since Denver then as well as now just like Phoenix and Salt Lake City was more/less a stepping stone for anyone who is on his/her way to the west coast markets such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle. I believe the long time popular LA radio team of Lohman & Barkely had got their start in Denver at KIMN and does the names of Dave Pratt, Hollywood Henderson, Danny Davis or Carlos Amsezcua ring a bell to anyone in DC or Baltimore? Doubt it !! I think Cleveland's Paxton Mills could had bridge the gap between the East & West coasts since Paxton was a very big name in Denver as well as Cleveland for so many years but drugs, drink and bipolar disorder more/less killed Paxton's career in Denver radio and sadly his life too, actually the Denver Post/Rocky Mountain News sometime ago did a story about Paxton's last days and it wasn't pretty. Anyway George Michael's lack of success in Denver may very well could had been the best thing to have happened to George Michael. RIP George !!!! (12/24/09)

What a shock @ George Michael. We went to the same dentist. He was having something done and wasn't in the best of moods that day. I introduced myself to him explaining that my father had worked at NBC for 50 plus years. He said are you Mac Mcgarry's son which I answered yes. He then went on to tell me how much he liked IT'S ACADEMIC because he couldn't get all of the questions right. Unless they were sports related of course. I'LL be wearing my Sports machine jacket thinking about you George. Mark McGARRY (12/24/09)

I am deeply saddened by today's news. And I'm also a bit disturbed by your inappropriate bragging/obsession with the fact that you broke the story. This moment is about a wonderful local broadcaster. I love you site and love your work, but I think you need to take a few steps back and look at exactly how your reactions and commentary have come across to us this morning. Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and my love and sympathy to the family, Adam in Annapolis (12/24/09)

I'm shocked and saddened over the passing of George Michael. As a kid, I used to enjoy watching the sports report on the 6 O'clock news with my dad. I loved watching George and Jim Vance go at it. It was always enjoyable to watch. I also remember the time where George reamed the Olympic committee for the equestrian events in the Olympics. He was so passionate in that speech and it showed how much he care for horses. This city has lost a true talent. My thoughts are with George's wife and family. (12/24/09)

WJZ 13 in Baltimore actually covered the George Michael story during their noon news (no, they didn't credit DCRTV either, but we know how CBS Baltimore feels about DCRTV so there was no chance of that happening). But I guess they felt compelled to run the story because The Sports Machine was syndicated to WJZ 13 for many years way back, so he is sorta well known in Baltimore, unlike say Glenn Brenner or other DC sportscasters besides maybe Johnny Holiday. I have to admit, I am kind of surprised his cancer was kept so private for so long without much of a news leak, especially after leaving WRC 4. But The Washington Post referring to DCRTV.com as "This site" is beyond ridiculous. Doesn't that even violate their own standard journalistic rules on accrediting known & public sources? If it were say TMZ.com, wouldn't The Post have mentioned the website name? Anyway, that's I guess not as important at this time. Condolences to his family. Another area local news icon is gone. -- Joe in Essex :-( (12/24/09)

Music radio 77 has a tribute to George Michael www.musicradio77.com... John T. Henneman (12/24/09)

George Michael's passing drew some national attention as ESPN.com, WCBS and WFAN all mentioned him in their sports headlines. AOL.com also wrote a brief story on him. (12/24/09)

IMDB (internet movie database) mentioned George Michael's passing. He played himself in the rodeo movie " 8 seconds" as well as appear in "Tin Cup". (12/24/09)

I'm sure everyone has their own special memories of George Michael. My favorite memory is his playing of "Run for the Roses" by Dan Fogelberg every year on channel 4 during the weekend of the Kentucky Derby, accompanied by film of beautiful horses dancing along to the music. Because of his love of horses, I think George would be pleased that someone enjoys this memory...I missed seeing it this year. He was missed after he left channel 4, and now he will be missed forever. -- Bobbie (12/24/09)

Hi Dave, George Michael worked at KBTR in Denver (not KIMN or KTLK), and in the early 70's he was firmly in charge of nights at WFIL (radio) in Philadelphia. If he ever appeared to television in Denver, it would have to have been on KBTV-Channel 9, which was co-owned and co-located with KBTR. When he took the gig in Philly, I rode with him to Stapleton Airport, and drove his car back to town so that his wife could pick it up later. I asked him if he was nervous about heading east, and he said, "Major league city, man, that's where you want to work. Go for a major league city". (Which Denver was not, at the time.) George was "major league" in every sense of the word - attitude, work ethic, promotion and people skills. He wanted his work product to be excellent so that listeners and viewers could get the most enjoyment out of it. Those of us who worked with him back in the day have lost a colleague who was a friend, a role model, and a giver of good advice. R I P, George - you are permanently in our hearts, and we'll never forget you. Dan O'Neil, Sales Manager 1430 WNAV (12/24/09)

''Ladies and gentlemen, let me explain what's going on. Don and Mike are on thin ice. So they brought me in. Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce you to smooth, relaxing, Power 105''. Then George Michael blasted into Steppenwolf's Born to be Wild. George Michael, I'll miss you. I thank you. You WILL be missed. RIP to a true original. Paul (12/24/09)

R.I.P. George Michael (12/24/09)

I am very sad to hear about the passing of George Michael. My wife called to tell me about it and I was stunned. When I got laid off from Red Zebra 2 years ago, George was one of the first people to call and check on me. It's not like we were great friends or even worked directly together. We met only a few times and he was always nice to me. Dave, please keep us informed about funeral arrangements. Cameron Gray (12/24/09)

I grew up watching channel 4 with Jim, Bob, Arch and George. Its the only news where the anchors seems like friends as well as colleges. The way they all interacted with each other was great and funny on many of the broadcasts. I hated when George left. The News 4 team and George were like family with each broadcast they did. I don't like admitting this, but I actually cried when I read the news of his death. (12/24/09)

Sad to hear about George Michael. He was a class act. May he R.I.P. Heard the news on WMAL - Austin Hill mentioned it right before 11am. -Silvie- (12/24/09)

Plenty of George Michael POW POW ........POWER at WFIL Famous 56 Philadelphia , www.famous56.com... John T. Henneman (12/24/09)

DC Sports is missing an icon. Condolences to his family - such a sad time to suffer a loss. (12/24/09)

Legendary is a word that is loosely thrown around but for George it's not enough. GOD Bless you George, heaven awaits (12/24/09)

I was so sorry to hear that. I heard him give a talk at the Friendship Heights Center a few months ago. I just left it. He basically gave a little talk but he really just answered questions. (12/24/09)

RIP King George! (12/24/09)

Another example of the Times getting ready to go down the tubes is the reporting on the death of George Michael. Because the sports department is on the verge of being let go, there is no one to write about Michael. A metro editor had to piece together something and use official statements, instead of getting any original comments. Furthermore, they were way behind every other local outlet in reporting this. (12/24/09)

Based on what I read on your web site, WRNR-AM in Martinsburg had the story on at 9:55am, just as our talkshow was signing off. We gave DCRTV attribution. Albert J. McGilvray, News Director, TalkRadio WRNR-AM 740 (12/24/09)

Dave's response: Thanks Al.....

ESPN 980's Tony Kornheiser will be doing a Special Show celebrating the life and work of George Michael today at 12 noon on ESPN 980. Also,Andy Pollin will be doing a Special Retrospective on the life of George Michael at 4pm today on ESPN 980. (12/24/09)

Am sorry to hear of the passing of George Michael! I remember reading some of the criticisms..but to me, he was a good sportscaster! But my first memories of George go back to when he was on WFIL (I'm mostly a "country music" fan..but he made "top 40" music fun to listen to! I think (for me anyway)..the thing that made George so good was the fact that he always sounded like he was having such a big time when he was on the air; it was like he was truly glad to be there! I don't know if it's still there, but on the "Reel Radio" page, there were (and probably still are)..airchecks from a 1996 reunion that I think was aired on WOGL-FM; George was a part of that..and he came across as if he were just "lovin" it! It is my belief that, if you're doing something (and really enjoy what you're doing)..that comes across; this, in turn, causes the listener to "get into" what you're doing! My condolences to George Michael's family (never knew the man personally)..but this time of year has to be an awful time to lose a loved one! George, RIP! Tom Kaufman Denton, MD.... P.S. Am I remembering right..or did George Michael do a little bit of "play-by-play" work for the Orioles on radio sometime during the seventies? (12/24/09)

Re: "Dave's response: George was the kinda guy who would call you at 6 AM to bitch about something you put on your site. Just gotta love him....." A major, long-time talent in local media passes after battling cancer, and this is all you have? To make it about you and your site, and imply the guy's a jerk? Classless. Bob (12/24/09)

Dave's response: Bob, pay attention. I loved (!) the guy. But, yeah, he was one to complain when you didn't get it the way he wanted it.....

George Michael was an amazing guy, both on and off camera. One night in 1984 or so, a few of us (18 year old guys) were at the 7-11 on River Road, our hangout, probably drunk and/or stoned, playing video games late one night. In walks George Michael to buy a pack of cigarettes. We were HUGE wrestling fans at the time and George Michael was the only sportscaster that showed rasslin' highlights. We said hi and started chatting with him. He stayed there and chatted for a good 10 minutes with us. Most 'media personalities' would have brushed by us like we were nothing. Also even though I'm a diehard Dallas fan his Redskins Report was mandatory viewing for me. Thanks George! (12/24/09)

Come on, Dave...You asleep at the wheel...lol...Lavar's restaurant is closed...And employees may not have been PAID. dcfab.thefabempire.com (12/24/09)

WAMU - Just heard DCRTV credited with the George Michael story. Congrats - the big time.(12/24/09)

Dave's response: Bless 'em.....

George Michael was a first-class Top 40 announcer; if you've ever heard his WABC tribute program for Elvis Presley the night he died in 1977, you know what I'm talking about. And as a TV sportscaster, he took Warner Wolf's "let's go to the videotape" concept to a higher level. The industry, and the D.C. area, will miss him. -- Vincent in Triangle (12/24/09)

Sadly, tragically on the Eve of Christ's birth, Channel 4 news tonight, I'm sure will be one of the most personally moving and touching newscasters in the station's history. I expect the entire "A-Team" to be there and for it to be a memorial to George, much how Channel 9 paid tribute to Glenn. None of us can imagine what Jim Vance will say, and possibly do tonight, the same for Doreen and those who were closest to him. Realistically, there is no other news story for Channel 4 to cover on any of its local show's today. The initial tribute, put together on the rush I'm sure, at 11 AM, couldn't help buy bring tears to the eyes of everyone watching it. George was a legend, one of a kind and will always be missed. (12/24/09)

Sad to hear about George Michael. I am pretty sure George Michael at one time did radio and TV in Denver. I am pretty sure he was at either KIMN-AM and.or KTLK-AM and I am 99% sure he did sports for a few weeks at Denver's KMGH channel 7 way way way way back in the early 70's. I assume George Michael didn't like the Mile High City since over the years I never once heard him talk about his so-called Denver days as it always DC, Philly and New York but I can't recall George Michael ever talking about his days in Denver. (12/24/09)

NBC4 has posted a video tribute to George Michaels, which they shown on the 11am newscast this morning. www.nbcwashington.com (12/24/09)

Man, could you imagine the stories George Michael and Glenn Brenner are swapping right now? It puts a little damper on the holiday, but Merry Christmas to all of DCRTVland - - - - - Larry in Luray (12/24/09)

A few years ago he survived falling from a horse, but sadly couldn't beat cancer. I used to watch him and Sony predict who win the Sunday Football games on Friday evening newscast. He will be missed.

Fans and colleagues of the late George Michael can now join the "RIP George Michael" group on Facebook: www.facebook.com (12/24/09)

Sad :-( He made sports reporting enjoyable to watch for even the non-sports minded people like me (12/24/09)

R I P GEORGE MICHAEL WE WILL MISS YOU (12/24/09)

washingtonpost.com - "Sportscaster George Michael Dies - This site is reporting the death of Washington sportscaster George Michael, saying he died today at age 70 from cancer. Michael anchored the sports desk at WRC (Channel 4) from 1980 to 2007. What are your memories of Michael?" (12/24/09)

Dave's response: I'm going to change DCRTV's name to "This Site." Man.....

I am truly at a loss for words. George Michael…love him or hate him, a true professional. God Bless him and family. PLB (12/24/09)

Dave's response: George was the kinda guy who would call you at 6 AM to bitch about something you put on your site. Just gotta love him.....

my deepest condolences to the entire channel 4 family on the loss of George Michael. I was at Channel 9 when Glenn died, the loss of a friend/co-worker like that is just devestating. Also, my I offer my deepest condolences to all of his family. (12/24/09)

For WXPN Fans: Once again host Robert Drake is doing a 24 hour Christmas Eve marathon playing an eclectic mix of holiday music from all genres. You can tune in over the air or stream it from the web. Bob Fairfax (12/24/09)

I have to agree that WJZ used to be a great Baltimore station but despite thier stance they have lost that local feel. I'm not knocking any of the personalities but the staff of yesteryear was above ordinary. A very tough act to follow and I think CBS has done as well filling those shoes as they have in making local radio worth listening to. Eyewitness News seems to be excellent graphics framing intense blurbs about what they'll be covering after the commercial break sandwiched in between ads for Hunt Valley and Towsons high end car dealers,stores,etc....mostly where no working grunt will ever go...followed by blurbs about blips of news tidbits following commercials...WJZ13 You're NOT The One!! Donnie in WBALTV News territory (12/24/09)

Rusty, I saw your post….it actually made me laugh out loud!!! Calling yourself a “webber” in your case is a good thing. To me you’re the BEST WEBBER. Best wishes, warm thoughts and God Bless. Stay strong. “Life is Good”. PLB/Davy Jones (12/24/09)

A tough loss for the Michaels family on Christmas Eve. He leaves quite a legacy. Rest in Peace. Al McGilvray (12/24/09)

To Joe In essex WJZ has fallen off In my opinion talent wise in the last 15 years that has helped WBAL tie them as well. At one time WJZ had Jerry Turner,Al Sanders,Richard Sher,Oparh,Randy Blair,Gayle Gardner,Nick Charles a very powerful lineup for what at the time was a Top 20 tv market. Also People are talking and Square Off those days are long gone. WJZ and WMAR have had major loss of viewers since 1991 where WBAL ratings until the Jay Leno debut had almost the same ratings for there newscast in 2009 verses 1991.WJZ is not the regional (Baltimore/D.C.) powerhouse that it was in the late 1970s,1980s,and early 90s. (12/24/09)

Wishing all a happy holiday weekend and a very good New Year! Carol www.nysocialdiary.com (12/24/09)

(Dave's response: Wasn't Jesus actually born in the springtime? And isn't the Christmas holiday in December because it's based on the old Roman holiday Saturanalia, and on Pagan celebrations of lengthening daylight after the shortest day of the year (in the northern hemisphere) on 12/21? Whatever. Gee, I hope the Fox News Police don't haul me away for questioning things. Merry Christmas anyway.....) Except for the actual birth all birthdays are a commemoration of the event.Those folks born on the Leap Year day celebrate their birthday on another day. And yes, do expect the Fox News Police and their minions to be after you soon. After all, these are the same "Christians" that are fighting tooth and nail to keep poor sick babies and their parents from having access to a doctor and medical treatment. Merry Christmas to all - Old Fogey from Olney (12/24/09)

To Carl in Olney: Prior to Jerry Turner's arrival on Television Hill in 1962, WJZ 13's news was mired in third place in a town that had three major network newscasts. People forget that even in 1971, WBAL 11 was #1, WMAR 2 was #2 and WJZ 13 #3. If I recall correctly, WMAR 2 was the first Baltimore TV station to actually do local news with help from the then co-owned Baltimore Sun and was #1 before WBAL's ACTION NEWS took off and became popular (WBAL was owned by the rival now defunct newspaper The Baltimore News American). However by 1973, WJZ 13 with Jerry Turner, Al Sanders, Bob Turk, and Nick Charles were a runaway hit at #1 and stayed there through the 70s/80s and even after Jerry Turner was gone in the 1990s. Only in the last decade has WBAL come back to tie or beat WJZ in ratings. WJZ's run of being #1 by such a wide margin for 30+ years (both WBAL & WMAR were always a distant 2nd/3rd) is almost unprecedented in all of local TV news in the U.S.. -- Joe in Essex (12/24/09)

A sincere and heartfelt wish to my fellow "Mailbaggers" is extended today for a Merry Christmas. Just remember it's Someone's birthday tomorrow. And thanks for welcoming me back to the fold (despite the fact that I'm a "webber") after being away for a while. Peace, Rusty Gibson WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/24/09)

Dave's response: Wasn't Jesus actually born in the springtime? And isn't the Christmas holiday in December because it's based on the old Roman holiday Saturanalia, and on Pagan celebrations of lengthening daylight after the shortest day of the year (in the northern hemisphere) on 12/21? Whatever. Gee, I hope the Fox News Police don't haul me away for questioning things. Merry Christmas anyway.....

on the story about his retirement: Carl Kasell To Stay Busy After Retirement - Every time Mr Kasell opens his mic, does nobody here really hear nothing but "This is Carl Kasell at the WAVA all-news Anchor Desk" ? (12/24/09)

Driving up to Connecticut for the holiday, listened to 660 WFAN in New York and heard sports talk radio as it should be, knowledgeable, informative, edgy, and all different sports. Our sports talk stations suffer by far in comparison. (Shawn in DC) (12/24/09)

Merry Christmas to all on DCRTV! And, may 2010 be better than 2009 was. -Unsigned Corporate Suit (12/24/09)

Dave's response: It's been a very good year for DCRTV. Everything's up! An nice erection in traffic. A solid boner year, despite the recession! Lotsa scoops! A whole shitload of cool gossip. And still getting completely ignored by the bureaucratic boobs at the WaPo - definitely a tribute to this one-man site's constant humilation of them. Ha ha ha. Oh, here's DCRTV's "touching" Christmas card for 2009 (right). Super happy Christmas, everyone.....

past due Brian was filling in Tues/Wed... From All Access: Wilson Fills In For Smerconish... Veteran talker and CLEAR CHANNEL Talk WSPD-A/TOLEDO afternoon host and PD BRIAN WILSON is filling in for MICHAEL SMERCONISH TODAY and TOMORROW on the latter’s DIAL GLOBAL syndicated show. (12/24/09)

/\ December 24 Messages /\

\/ December 23 Messages \/

SOC You ever noticed Julie Wrights facial expression at the end of one of her traffic reports? Seems to go from happy to grimace within a split second. I kinda expected WJFK duh Edge to dump on Maryland sports. They constantly doing pre game show on WJFK but moving broadcast of game over to Duh Fresh 94.7. I bet more folks listen to Maryland BB games than the Le Bullets. But I'll take guess that Le Bullets are paying WJFK more? And wha' happened to Dave Johnson Wiz play by play he seems to have adopted the style of doing play by play way over the top, which sadly is the style these days. Not everything is a momentous play is it? Any word on what happens to Tom Lavarro come January with Wash Times dropping sports? And will never read a Gary Arnold column no more. I enjoy his old movie column on sundays. And what 'bout the comics, no more B.C.? What ever happened to all them analog to digital tv converters, is there a big warehouse somewhere, can't find them in stores no more. Merry Christmas everyone. John Prine video.aol.co.uk... Mary Tyler Moore show tinyurl.com (12/23/09)

Besides Arnold Stang, we lost another member of TV history today with the passing of Connie Hines who played Alan Young's wife on "Mr. ED". I can remember back in the late 80's when Mr. ED was shown quite a bit on then WFTY channel 50 ( remember those two WFTY sales reps Al & Ann..The "A" Team" promos ? ). I am not sure if it was WFTY or Nick at Nite ( they were airing Mr. ED at the time as well ), who brought Connie Hines and Alan Young to Tysons Corner around 1990 for some public appearance. I can also remember seeing the surprised look on the faces of the crowd when Alan & Connie were introduced since according to many trivia books at the time both Hines & Young HATED doing Mr. Ed and considered the show nothing more than a steady paycheck and thats it. Actually both Connie Hines and Alan Young denied ever saying those words, not only in Young's book but even when both actors were interviewed during the Nick@Nite run of Mr. Ed. Come to think of it I believe both Hines & Young were hoping to be involved with that Mr. Ed big screen remake that was in the planning stage some years back ( the movie I assume never did get past that so-called planning stage ). Anyway today in the obits I read about Connie Hines, many of them still featued her so-called "steady paycheck" quote desipte Connie saying otherwise. I guess thats hardly a surprise, when Soupy Sales passed on ealier this year I read at least two obits online that said that Soupy was a big star at NYC's WNEW-TV...AND WTTG even though Soupy was never seen on our local channel 5. Also several years back when Bob McAllister died I can remember reading a number of obits at the time that said McAllister's Wonderama was seen only on NYC's WNEW-TV and nowhere else. Hmmmmmm was I dreaming seeing Bob on WTTG every Sunday morning back in the 70's doing that snake can game? Ah..don't think so !!! (12/23/09)

Once upon a time on WMAL’s Mark Levin Show, one could have easily gotten the impression that among Levin’s so-called “backbenchers” he railed about was a certain Chris Plante. Now tonight, Chris has Planted himself as a substitute for Levin: what gives? And why is Chris Plante essentially re-doing the very show he already did at 9:00 AM this morning? Inquiring minds wanna know: maybe Silvie has the answer. (12/23/09)

Hey Dave, Just to follow up on your power hike item, WUSA cranked up its output to 52kw yesterday, so people can rescan and check those antennas again! (12/23/09)

Ive really been enjoying Brian Mitchell on WJFK in the morning this week.. Is there a chance we could hear Brian & Riggo soon? (12/23/09)

2 things: 1) It is now a scientific fact that one cannot turn on 105.9 or 100.3 w/o hearing the Steve Miller Band. 2) Chad Dukes is an ass and should be taken off the radio. Never yell at your callers dude. Youve just lost a listener. If I were your PD, youd be done. (12/23/09)

John in Baltimore, thanks for the kind words. As Carl Bernstein used to say when he was going to swing clubs attended by foreign intelligence agents, "the Czech is in the male." And it's not that they're thin-skinned, it's that a mommy-skin-suit really doesn't add much warmth... you really want to go full Brocktoon for that, but what's done is done, in split-levels, ramblers, and Cape Cods all around the DC area. --- ThePenIsMightier (12/23/09)

Speaking of Arnold Stang, and this will show my age, but back in the early 1950s, on the only station at the time licensed in the State of New Jersey, WATV,Channel 13, in Newark (now, of course, WNET), Arnold Stang did a kiddie show for 6 months around 1955 as a long-term substitute for--get this--Morrie Amsterdam, who eventually returned after, I think, a long illness. They had an audience of little kids in the bleachers, but being only about 4 years old at the time, that's all I can remember. I do remember that the station's picture were so bad that when a cartoon was shown, the previous scene of the studio with the kids was burned onto the camera and showed as a shadow on the screen. This was not the fault of our TV: it was your typical RCA B&W (what else was there?) 17" screen in a beautiful mahogony cabinet, hard-to-read channel numbers from 2-13 with a big space when you went around from 13 back to 2 (it looked like the spinner on a children's board game) complete with frequency adjustment and your conventional vertical and horizontal tuning knobs to get those magnets just right, with a rooftop antenna in Brooklyn; there was no burn-in from the cartoon because the picture changed so much. Anyway by 1959 or so, WATV was just a memory and static, and NYC had only 6 TV stations for a number of years. A commercial station did return to Lucky 13 (WNTA, which showed, incredibly, a tropical fishtank for half the day with quiet music in the background), then it became a public station (WNDT, which became WNET after the Public TV Boys "spoke to" a smaller-city station about giving up those call letters). At that point, Los Angeles became again, and remained until the HDTV final switch, the TV market with the largest number of commercial VHF stations in the US (2,4,5,7,9,11,13). Why is it that in both cities, Commercial Channel 13 was always the bottom of the bottom? Just like WATV in New York/Newark, in LA, KCOP-13 was always the least of the least. Even when all the other "non-network" stations had 1-hour news at 10 PM, KCOP-13 had a half-hour. I was so accustomed to that that I was flabbergasted that Channel 13 in Baltimore was and still is the top dog. Anyway, Merry Xmas to all who celebrate it, and a pleasant weekend to all others. -- Carl in Olney (12/23/09)

An interesting message regarding E. Howard Hunt and the "Big Event." As Mr. Hunt was said by some to have been one of the "3 Tramps" being escorted from the railroad area in Dealy Plaza. Another has been reported to have been Charles Harrelson (actor Woody Harrelson's father) who had served Prison time for murder. That whole "JFK" thing has always intrigued me. Though I've always wondered who had the most to gain. LBJ? Rusty Gibson, WEBR/RadioFairfax (12/23/09)

Hey Dave, Are the polls for BW 2009 open until the 31st? (12/23/09)

Dave's response: I'll probably keep it running through New Years Day weekend.....

Speaking of the “exact” travel times, they have this in Columbus, Ohio, too. Posted on the electronic signs before you get I-270, which is their beltway. I think I saw it in Salt Lake City over the summer too. Of course, it IS more effective in places where the main interstate still takes you through the city, so you have an option when you look at the time on the board. Driving through the heart of DC is NOT an option since they never built I-95, and took the money for Metro. Charles in Winchester (12/23/09)

Funny, I see responses to my comments about Elliot being knocked to the sidelines in an earllier e mail and Kane's numbers being up, but I don't see the e mail posted. How do people reply to a post that wasn't posted? Maybe because I blasted Dave's scary obsession with Don and Mike and he doesn't like that? Come on. These guys are off the air and will stay that way. Let it go man, and move on. Oh and with reference to Kane's diary number being poor as opposed to ppm. PPM is essentially objective and reports what the listener hears, not what s/he says they listen to. No more people voting for their favorites. (12/23/09)

Great, just what we need. Another talking Redskins head on local sports radio. And Mitchell SUCKS! He's a blowhard who provides no real insight whatsoever. Koken would be a good addition to WJFK though because it would give them some hockey credibility. As for Jackson, I thought he had a pretty good gig in Charlotte? (12/23/09)

"Don't think for a second that Elliott has been kicked to he sidelines at Clear Channell. Elliott is still #1 in Men 18-34 . . ." WRONG! Elliot may still have that spot some weeks, but the Junkies are taking that spot in many weeks too. You wouldn't know that, though, since DCRTV Dave tends to downplay the demo numbers whenever the Junkies pull out a number one in a given week. For some reason, his hate of all things WJFK and CBS Radio has now spread to the Junkies, who I would argue are the only show with some originality left in the DC area. He has spent this week using his Twitter to spread false rumors that they should be "worried" that JFK is testing out BMitch and others in their time slot. He'll say he is just kidding, but we know he makes his living spreading false rumors and innuendo without any factual basis. As we saw a couple of weeks ago, he'll even tolerate racism if it targets WJFK. (12/23/09)

Dave's response: Very funny.....

You know I've been saying this for the past year regarding re-cycled sportstalk talent in our market. Well, here we go again! My ongoing point was and has been, people like the CBS suits and Bruce Gilbert only know of re-using talent that's never brought any ratings. I like Brian Mitchell and he's the best football X's and O's analyst in the market. He can talk and doesn't bring Doc Walker-type street talk to the airwaves. Yes, he deserves a show. However, what doesn't work is using Koken or Scott Jackson to produce audience appeal. Al's politically correct nature is so insulting and Scott still has marbles in his mouth...I don't understand how these radio execs. keep their jobs. Currently, there's an abundance of unemployed sportstalk talent in the marketplace and I guess there's no one in our market who cares to open their eyes and bring some fresh blood to the DC airwaves. Until these station owners wake-up and realize there's been some very poor decision making going-on at the top level, nothing's going to change. (12/23/09)

WMAR 2 seeks to upgrade its DTV signal too... fcc.gov (12/23/09)

I heard this call on CSPAN radio yesterday. www.huffingtonpost.com... A caller to Washington Journal asks Republican Senator Barraso how hard he prayed for Senator Byrd to die. Funny stuff. Every once in a while you get really funny call on Washington Journal. A few months ago on WJ a caller said ”I just saw on Fox News that Obama’s high speed rail plans are designed to transport old people to FEMA camps to die.” Interesting that these great political soundbites are never on Grandy and Andy’s “Say that again.” Speaking of Grandy & Andy, with all their bashing of ACORN, and telling us ACORN was under “Federal Investigation,” did they report on this story foxnews.com? Washington Journal, live from their North Capitol Street Studio, can bee seen each morning on C-SPAN or heard on 90.1 FM in the DC area. Grandy and Andy can be heard on WMAL misinforming the public each weekday morning. Chris Plante, oh never mind. Now, Regarding Jeff Kuhner, he is a “writer” as well? I was taught to never use the word “this” as a noun, not in writing, not in speech. Did Jeff miss that day in English 101? (12/23/09)

Perhaps the last interview with Arnold Stang... (12/23/09)

The 2009 Call for Entries is now available online. Go to www.capitalemmys.tv for the standard rules, category names and numbers, entry form and official label. ALL ENTRIES FOR THE 2009 EMMY AWARDS MUST BE SUBMITTED ONLINE! A downloadable PDF of the Call is provided along with a secure site for your online credit card payment. ONLY online submissions will be accepted. All entries for the 2009 Emmy Awards MUST be submitted on DVD-R (minus R). Rules for labeling can be found in the Call. Questions or concerns about rules and categories? Email mmcclellan@masnsports.com or call 410-547-3085 or Email sean.mcgarvy@foxtv.com or call 202-895-3261. Questions on how to use the Emmy Express Station Dashboard for those organizations paying for an keeping track of multiple entries? General questions about membership, payment or shipping? Email capitalemmys@aol.com or call 301-587-3993. DEADLINE for submissions is Friday, January 22, 2010 at 7pm. (12/23/09)

Speaking of police calls - "Wonderful WINOOOOOO" - 1750 on your AM dial, just above the police calls, kids!!! Hey baby, what's happenin'?? (12/23/09)

I've never heard of Jeffrey T. Kunher before, but he should invest in Spellcheck and a proofreader before putting out a "press release". (12/23/09)

Do you think that The Fan will squeeze Brian Mitchell in, or are they looking to replace someone? The most logical thing would seem to cut an hour from Wize and Arrington and run BMitch between the two....how about that for sticking it to Danny boy? BMitch and Smoking Al from 1-4 directly competing with John Thompson....will be fun to watch unfold. (12/23/09)

www.toptalkradio.com - Breaking, Talk Radio News story, Talk Radio unleashes "The Atomic Bomb for Liberalism" Jeff Kuhner... During the coarse of Jeff Kuhner's radio program which originally aired December 4th responding to a routine call MR. Kuhner dispensed a long anticipated major announcement to his growing audience. He proclaimed "We are planning on getting this show nationally syndicated, this is the next step...with the help of all the wonderful supporters and listeners this show will expand from Washington D.C. This is the plan we have with the Washington times and with the people here at WTNT we are going to grow this...I knocked off Ed Schultz that liberal hack, who used to be in this slot 12 to 3 here in D.C. I am determined to chase him in market after market after market across this entire country. I will not rest until I have literally captured every market from that man. Because our dear conservative values are the values that I believe represent those of the majority of the American people. It's about time those values got a hearing not just here in Washington, but everywhere". This is great news for the "Kuhner revolutionaries" who are out of the WTNT broadcast market listening over the internet. Moreover better news for the health of our beloved country starved for the appearance of a Churhillian figure and voice that can so effectively expose and battle the thuggish totalitarian hijacking of our government. This is a classic Good vs.evil match and would pay to hear Jeffrey tear Schultz to shreds in a broadcasted debate someday and hear Liberal Ed's reaction when Jeff squashes each of his markets. There is little doubt Kuhner will not only knock off his menacing "mental midget" rival Ed Schultz once syndicated, but most likely make it to the top 10 list in all of Talk radio in a matter of months. Then ultimately reaching the summit swiftly dethroning Rush himself in a couple of years. Currently Jeff juggles his roles as president of the Edmund Burke Institute , a Washington think tank, columnists for the Washington Times, primary fill in host for the Savage Nation and as most recently behind the helm of his newly launched Radio show in D.C. It will be an interesting ride for this Canadian born American Patriot. It appears on air Jeff takes no prisoners and is a natural at squeezing off plenty of precision placed rounds and truth bombs directly into the dark heart of Liberalism 3 hours a day. A.K.A "The Last Honest Man in Washington" Jeffrey T. Kunher airs 12 to 3 Weekdays on WTNT www.talk570.com (12/23/09)

Don't think for a second that Elliott has been kicked to he sidelines at Clear Channell. Elliott is still #1 in Men 18-34 while Kane is #1 in Women 18-34. Both are in the top 5 in 25-54. Clear Channel loves that. As for Kane, Clear Channell knows the recipe: let him talk some and make sure he plays music. When they added more music to his show, his ratings went up. Kane does well, but does not get much respect in the building. It is widely known that he fakes a lot of his signature bits and is riding the wave of a very popular format. Elliott has been in the building for a decade and continues to do well from diary to PPM. Kane was not doing well in diary, so that has also kept him from gaining respect in the building. Let me be clear, I hate them both. I'm just around it all day. If you want to see a Clear Channell manager freak out, just mention "Fresh FM is flipping to top 40". (12/23/09)

A Franklin antenna is an intriguing thought, but its a lot costlier to build and maintain than a simple vertical. There is a tuning coil 1/2-way up the stick and a huge nitrogen-filled capacitor at the base to properly tune the mutha. That'd be a toughie to justify if you were an AM standalone "up near the police calls" as Imus would say. (12/23/09)

"WFED's niche format in 36th place on a frequency that deserves much better" Um........ it is 15th or better in revenues, and revenues, not ratings, are the ultimate goal. Radio is a business, folks. (12/23/09)

Re: Chicago traffic reports....(I marvel at how much specific, usable information is provided in their "traffic and weather together every 10 minutes." What you get there is exact travel times for every major artery in each report. Don't we deserve traffic reporting that's on par with "the Second City.") Rick, you are partially correct. And you don't even need a radio station to get that info. It is posted on automated billboards on all the major highways. That's because the city, the state and Cook County invested in a network of sensors bullt into the roads that gives the highway department actual travel times. DC has nothing like that because government has not invested in information infrastructure. Any reporting on "exact travel times" for DC area routes would be a pure guess. The credit does not go to Chicago radio stations for good traffric reports, it goes to local and state government investing in intelligent transportation systems. (12/23/09)

RE: The passing of Arnold Stang. Yet another of his claims to fame is that he co-starred with Arnold Schwarznegger in the “classic” epic, “Hercules in New York,” the big guy’s first commercial movie. If memory serves, the Gubernator’s voice was dubbed because his Austrian accent was so thick that his English was unintelligible (unlike now, right?). The future governor of California - who’da thunk it! Arnold Stang is also remembered for his commercials back in the ‘60's (?) for Chunky candy bars - “Chunky - what a chunka chawklate!” Mike from Frederick, home of the Dashboard DX Society, all wearing black today and chowing down on a Chunky in his honor. (12/23/09)

RE: [ " Maybe you, ThePenIs and Joe in Essex should all get together and start your own little blog and then comment on one another posts. " ]..... Don't be so bitter David Zurawik and don't worry, we have future plans for you to write about. Signed, Jon & Kate + 8 :-) (12/23/09)

Dave, Having a rental car for a few weeks, I'm in serious XM withdrawl, and so I'm jumping around the presets of (gasp) DC's airwaves. At about 9:30 I gritted my teeth and plonked on WJFK. To my very pleasant surprise, Scott Jackson, Brian Mitchell, and Al Koken were doing a very listenable show. I had expected to endure 180 seconds (the lenght of the spot set I was avoiding) of the Sports Turds, but instead of the sophomoric screaming of frustrated dumb jocks, I got good local radio. I'm sure it's just a Christmas present, but I'd surely listen to these 3 in AM drive, as soon as Czaban's show is gone for Stephen A. Stiff. Why do PD's still think that a loud-mouthed, load-mouthed zoo crew is a ratings bonanza? Are you listening CBS? Oh, sorry, I must have been dreaming. Frank in Arlington (12/23/09)

Dave, I'm probably the 50th person to mention this, but "Dancing in the Streets" is a great Van Halen remake, and it's on the band's "Diver Down" album. Don't diss VH! Also, I still like 105.9 when they stick to VH and harder-edged bands. Wish I didn't hear the Stones, etc. Some great music, but stuff I've heard a million times and can hear any hour on BIG 100. Christian (12/23/09)

Any idea why WFLS 93.3 was broadcasting on 105.9 this morning? It was parallel to 93.3 so don’t know if it was from a mixing product or what. This was around 7:00am and was loud and clear in Chantilly. Double-checked two cars and both showed the same signal. (12/23/09)

Dave's response: Strange! Just checked 105.9 and it's playing David Lee Roth's "Dancin' In The Street." Ugh. DLR did just one cool song, Van Halen's "Jump." That's it.....

most love we have EVER gotten from Reliable Source washingtonpost.com (12/23/09)

Dave's response: It's a shame that WTOP didn't have the Salahis sneek into their "Ask The Governor" program yesterday with Obama calling in. It might have gotten front page placement in the WaPo's Style section, instead of just the "RS" column on page 2.....

www.charlotteobserver.com - this story will make you realize the business isn't worth putting your life on the line for anymore...what a fall from grace...oooofah! (12/23/09)

Re: President Obama calling WTOP. Refreshing to have a president who is actually away of what is going on around him, ie; traffic in No. Va. As far as calling Grandy? The only reason I would call him is to find out where my room on the Lido deck was located. (12/23/09)

(regarding a previous post) Dear "John in Baltimore": There's only one problem with your love letter about ThePenIs -- his posts aren't funny. They are mostly stupid, irrelevant and pointless. I have gotten more coherent communication from toothless street people on cheap wine. Maybe you, ThePenIs and Joe in Essex should all get together and start your own little blog and then comment on one another posts. The three of you come off as misunderstood, put upon outcasts, so it should work out to be a cozy little arrangement for you all. (12/23/09)

What's most interesting about the Baltimore TV numbers is not that WJZ & WBAL were almost tied for 1st place most of the day, that's the norm. The surprise was that WMAR 2's continuous coverage all day long paid off as they came in #3 ahead of WBFF FOX 45 and beat FOX 45 even between 5pm-7pm, when FOX 45 ran their "special" coverage. (12/23/09)

A great way to celebrate the holidays, benefit a charity, & save 1 of the last big historic palace movie theaters all wrapped up in one... www.baltimoresun.com... "A Christmas Carol" & "It's a Wonderful Life" on the historic Senator Theater's big screen. (12/23/09)

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