RadioInsight has reported (7/24) that Midwest Family Broadcasting has flipped its WQLQ-FM (Benton Harbor/South Bend) from CHR to Alternative. The publication notes that station, positioned as “The Alternative”, is “spotlighting artists including The Killers, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Weezer, and Pearl Jam.”
The FCC this week issued a Public Notice announcing the effective date of certain portions of the FCC Order released in June adopting changes to its requirements that broadcasters obtain certifications from buyers of program time on their stations that the sponsors are not foreign governments or agents of those governments.
Tegna’s WZZM-TV (Grand Rapids) has announced the hiring of Michigan Native Tanner Holbrook at its new reporter/morning anchor. Holbrook is a native of southwest Michigan, hailing from Coldwater. He grew up watching Grand Rapids television and is excited to return to his home market.
WNMU-FM (Marquette) Morning Host/News Director Nicole Walton is highlighted this week in Northern Michigan University’s “Northern Today.” Walton, who has over two decades of experience at the station, started at the station as a student employee while pursuing an English degree.
Moody Radio announced the appointment of Dodd Morris as station manager of the organization’s WGNB-FM (Grand Rapids). A familiar voice to listeners in Grand Rapids, Morris served as director of operations and the evening host at WCSG-FM (Grand Rapids) before coming to Moody Radio. He was at WCSG and Cornerstone University for over 35 years.
WKAR Public Media has announced that it is holding an open casting call for children ages 9 to 13 for season eleven of Curious Crew, the award-winning television show featuring inquisitive kids exploring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics!
During our newsletter break for the 4th of July, your MAB learned of three stations with format adjustments here in Michigan. In Grand Rapids, Townsquare Media has rebranded Classic Hits 98.7 WFGR-FM as “98.7 The Grand.”
WGHN-FM (Grand Haven) Morning Host Mary Ellen Murphy has announced the launch of the station’s “Coast Guard Barbie™” Campaign. Murphy, opened up about her journey with Barbie Millicent Rogers™ (her real name) during her cancer treatment last year in a heartfelt conversation with WGHN’s Jesse Bruce.
Latitude Media (Mt. Pleasant) has announced the addition of two talented individuals to its esteemed broadcast team at My1043 WCZY, Buck92 WMMI, and My Michigan Podcasts. Joe Walters joins the morning show on My1043 WCZY alongside Lizz G, bringing over a decade of experience in radio and a deep connection to the local community. Additionally, Kyle Sandel steps into the role of Sports Director.
The MAB is sad to pass along the news that former Grand Rapids market radio and television engineer Larry Kozal, Jr. passed away June 29 at the age of 81. Kozal was born October 1, 1942, grew up in Muskegon. In 1965 he received his B.A. degree from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids.