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FCC Issues Urgent Cyber-Security Alert to Broadcasters
Last Friday (1/30), the FCC issued a Public Notice strongly urging broadcasters to implement immediate cybersecurity protections after a rise in ransomware attacks on small and mid-size communications companies. This is not a routine advisory. The FCC is making clear that stations are expected to follow recognized cybersecurity best practices and that certain incidents may trigger mandatory reporting to federal authorities.
Read MoreWXYZ Wins Prestigious duPont-Columbia Award For Investigation Into Traveling Troubled Cops
A years-long investigation by WXYZ-TV (Detroit) detailing how troubled police officers were able to find new badges throughout Michigan has been honored with the duPont-Columbia Award, the highest honor in broadcast journalism. The series of reports documented how problem officers were able to find refuge in neighboring departments, frequently leaving scandal, criminal charges and lawsuits in their wake.
Read MoreIn Memoriam: Ismael Ahmed
This past week, Wayne State University’s WDET-FM (Detroit) shared the sad news of the passing of Ismael Ahmed, the longtime host of This Island Earth and a beloved voice on the station. Ahmed passed away this last Saturday (1/31). He was 78. In a story posted on its website, the station noted that “Ismael was more than a broadcaster — he was a tireless advocate for culture, community, and justice, and his work touched generations across Detroit and beyond.”
Read MoreNoncommercial Broadcasters Looking for FM Translators – A Window to File for New Translators is Coming Soon
The announcement of the coming window came by a draft Public Notice to be considered by the Commissioners at their next monthly open meeting on February 18. The Notice to be considered at the February meeting would instruct the Media Bureau to open a window for the filing of new translators in the reserved band, reserved for use by noncommercial licensees (including Low Power FM stations).
Read MoreWWJ’s 23rd Annual Winter Survival Radiothon for THAW raises $276,774!
This past Thursday (1/29), Audacy’s WWJ-AM (Detroit) held is 23rd Annual Radiothon for THAW, The Heat and Warmth Fund. This year the effort raised $276,774 to bring warmth for Michigan families in need.
Read MoreWXYZ & WMYD General Manager Mike Murri Named Board Chair for Visit Detroit
“I am honored to serve as the Chair of the Visit Detroit Board of Directors,” said Murri. “Momentum has never been higher in the Detroit region, and we have a window of opportunity to capitalize even more. I want to thank Claude Molinari, his team, and the entire Board for entrusting me with this leadership role. I can’t wait to get started.”
Read MoreMBC to Open Nominations for 2026 Radio Hall Of Fame This Sunday
The Museum of Broadcast Communications announces that the Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee will accept suggestions for 2026 nominees beginning Sunday, February 1, 2026, through Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST.
Read MoreFebruary 2026 Regulatory Dates for Broadcasters – EEO Reports; ATSC 3.0 and Earth Station Rulemaking Comment Deadlines; Class A, LPTV, and TV Translator Rules Effective Dates; Political Windows; and More (If the Government Does Not Shut Down)
While most of the country is currently frozen, February promises to heat up with several regulatory dates and deadlines broadcasters need to be aware of. But the possibility of another federal government shutdown looms.
Read MoreFCC Issues Public Notice on Equal Opportunities for Appearances on Non-News Programs
FCC Washington Counsel David Oxenford reports that the FCC Media Bureau has issued a Public Notice to provide “guidance” on the application of the political broadcasting “equal opportunity” rule – in particular, the application of the “bona fide news” exemption to late night and daytime talk shows. Although the rule applies equally to radio and television stations, the PN focuses on television programming.
Read MoreMichigan Public Names Kate Furby PhD as Senior Environment Reporter
Michigan Public (Ann Arbor) News Director Vincent Duffy has announced that Kate Furby, PhD has joined the station as the Senior Environment Reporter, covering science and the environment for the state’s largest public radio station.
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