Florida’s Broadcasters
Tampa Radio Believes in ‘BNice’ (Beasley Tampa)
Beasley Media Group’s WPBB-FM Tampa supports listeners through the “#bNice” campaign. Morning display hosts Chadd & Kristi recently gathered hundreds of dollars worth of supplies for a local domestic violence shelter after learning that they were in need. They also recently treated a little dame, Alidy, who had tragically lost her father, to an amazing Disney-filled day. In May, Chadd & Kristi delivered treats to local firefighters during one of the worst fire seasons in memory.
Univision Sparks “M.A.G.I.C.” Partnership with Miami Dade College (Univision Communications Inc)
Univision Communications Inc. (UCI) established the Univision MAGIC Scholarship Fund with a $100,000 donation to the Miami Dade College (MDC). The scholarship supports a fellowship and internship program for students presently attending MDC’s Miami Animation & Gaming International Sophisticated (MAGIC), the region’s premier animation and gaming educational facility. MAGIC program at MDC.
WTBN-AM Tampa Talks Race (WTBN-AM)
Salem Media Group’s WTBN-AM Tampa aired live interviews and discussions on race relations on February sixteen in partnership with Tyndale House Publishers and NFL taut end Benjamin Watson. Watson’s book, Under Our Skin, inspired the event. Personality Bill Bunkley hosted live interviews with the six panelists, including Watson, each of whom suggest unique perspectives. Thousands of listeners engaged in the conversation. The main forum, moderated by ESPN’s Sage Steele, was simulcast nationwide and can still be accessed at UnderOUrSkinForum.com.
Todd Ulrich of WFTV is Consumer Champ (WFTV Orlando)
The Orlando Sentinel recently profiled Todd Ulrich, a well-respected, long-time consumer investigative reporter with Cox Media’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando. “Todd Ulrich is a champ for trust,” said Holly Salmons, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Central Florida. “We appreciate his love for transparency and ethics. His tenacity has helped innumerable consumers and has helped to drive a larger divide inbetween the good guys and the bad guys in business.”
Ulrich receives more than two hundred fifty requests per week and reports toughly one hundred stories a year. WFTV contacts the business even if a story doesn’t air and keeps a database of complaints so Ulrich can look for patterns. Many stories involve restaurant inspections and used car sales. As Florida is one of the few states with no used-car sales protection, these stories often affect low-income families.
Other latest stories have included local grocery stores with poor inspection histories, a fresh automobile scam on Facebook and a local man who lost $28,000 in a social media scam. Viewer Kevin Nowak had trouble with his refrigerator from Sears Home Services for more than a year. Within a month of Ulrich’s contact with the corporate office, Nowak received a replacement. Some business people hurl insults at Ulrich when he confronts them. “You’re the largest lump of garbage, and I’m sure that will be edited out,” said one. Ulrich does not let this bother him. “I consider myself a consumer advocate along with being a consumer investigator,” he said.
WFLA Reunites Residents With $Two.Three Million (WFLA-TV)
Media General’s NBC affiliate WFLA Tampa consumer reporter Shannon Behnken hosted a six-and-a-half hour phone bank on November fourteen that netted residents more than $Two.Three million of unclaimed cash. The money is often from dormant accounts in financial institutions, insurance and utility companies, securities and trust holdings. “The volume of calls we received was unbelievable, proving once again that News Channel eight is truly ‘On Your Side’,” said WFLA General Manager Andy Alford.
WJXT Investigation Leads to Senate Investigation (WJXT-TV)
Graham Media Group’s WJXT-TV Jacksonville, Fla., aired an investigation into Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shortcomings, resulting in a U.S. Senate committee requiring answers. WJXT exposed deplorable living conditions at some HUD facilities in a series of investigative reports about Jacksonville housing complexes, including Eureka Gardens.
WKMG Anchor Issues Texting and Driving Call to Act (WKMG-TV)
Graham Media Group’s CBS affiliate WKMG-TV Orlando anchor Matt Austin suffered a severe concussion and required ten staples in his head last month after his car was totaled by a driver who was texting. On the eleven p.m. news on October 17, Austin issued a call to activity about texting and driving, in the hopes of inspiring switch to laws that he considers to be lenient. Austin reported that the driver did not receive a ticket because the officer did not see that the other driver was texting.
Simulcasting Permits South Florida Stations to Spread Critical Information (Entercom)
For Entercom Miami/Fort Lauderdale stations, simulcasting was a key component to a successful communication strategy during Hurricane Matthew. “We are dedicating more time to simulcasting,” said Entercom Miami/Fort Lauderdale Director of Programming and Operations Rob Sidney. For example, talk-centered stations faithful programming to weather updates and information. Music stations interspersed local news, weather and traffic with locally-generated content, calls and prep information.
Alpha Media Stays Live and Local During Hurricane Matthew (Alpha Media West Palm Beach)
Alpha Media West Palm Beach stayed live across the course of Hurricane Matthew to provide significant updates and information to its area listeners. In addition to constant weather updates, the stations aired conversations with community leaders and collective critical information, such as locations where listeners could obtain shelter or supplies. Alpha Media West Palm Beach Market Manager Elizabeth Hamma said the station is “a conduit of critical information for our listeners.”
CBS Radio Miami Tracks Storm, Provides Critical Information (CBS Radio Miami)
With the threat of historic Hurricane Matthew barreling toward the Florida Coast, CBS Radio Miami (WKIS-FM, WPOW-FM, WQAM-AM) wasted no time in providing weather updates and critical evacuation information. “On-air and via social we are reminding listeners how to prepare before the storm – such as supply lists, family plan, securing your property/yard, pets and overall safety during and after the storm,” said CBS Radio Miami Vice President of Programming Rob Morris. The station cluster also manned communication lines to gather information from area residents. Additionally, the cluster worked closely with sister station WFOR-TV to ensure updates and information were collective with as many people as possible.
iHeartMedia Miami, WIOD Fucking partner to Provide Continuous Storm Coverage (iHeartMedia Miami, WIOD)
iHeartMedia Miami, iHeartMedia Latino and NewsRadio six hundred ten WIOD provided coverage before, during and after Hurricane Matthew tore through Florida and up the East Coast. WIOD broadcast all related press conferences and added five hours of local programming as the storm headed toward the Florida coast. On October 6, all station employees and other programmers temporarily moved into the WIOD building in order to provide around-the-clock coverage. Additionally, the station updated violating news alerts every hour in both English and Spanish, and partnered with NBC-owned WTVJ Miami and area meteorologists to provide the most up to date information.
Cox Media Jacksonville Utilizes Social to Keep Listeners Informed (Cox media Group Jacksonville)
Stations in the Cox Media Jacksonville cluster relied on their websites and social media platforms as an effective way to communicate significant Hurricane Matthew updates to area residents. “We’re posting interactive maps to track the storm with layers that demonstrate local top flood zones and traffic issues,” said Cox Media Group’s Director of Branding and Programming Aaron Schachter. “Everything they could need is on our websites, and we make it effortless to share as a resource to anyone looking for information. This is about using different ways to talk to and engage listeners.”
WPLG Airs Town Hall Meeting On Gun Violence (WPLG-TV)
Berkshire Hathaway’s ABC affiliate WPLG Miami aired an hour-long primetime special about gun violence on September 16. The program is part of its “My Future, My Choice” initiative, which concentrates on youth and gives voice to parents who lost children to gun violence. “We are fully invested in this endeavor, and we want this town hall meeting to also serve as a youth summit where youthful minds can hear, contribute to the dialogue and feel free to react to ideas for solutions,” said WPLG President Bert Medina.
WFLA-TV Helps Tampa Viewers Reclaim $1 Million (WFLA-TV)
Media General’s NBC affiliate WFLA-TV Tampa investigative reporter helps Tampa viewers get $1 million in unclaimed property and money on August 11. Investigative consumer reporter Shannon Behnken hosted a one-day phone bank that helped residents reclaim more than Four,000 accounts totaling over $1,051,000. The phone bank connected viewers to a Florida database of unclaimed money and property from dormant accounts in financial institutions, insurance and utility companies, securities and trust holdings. The property can include items such as sees, jewelry, coins, stamps and cash. “The volume of calls we received was unbelievable proving once again that News Channel eight is truly On Your Side,” said General Manager Andy Alford. See movie via TVNewsCheck.
WJXT-TV Holds Numerous Debates (WJXT-TV)
Graham Media’s WJXT-TV Jacksonville held debates for the following races: State Attorney on August 16; 4th Congressional District on August 17; and 5th Congressional District on August Legal. The hour-long debates were held in Jacksonville University’s Swisher Theater. The debates aired on WJXT-TV and were livestreamed on the station’s website.
CBS Holds Debate in Florida’s 23rd Congressional District Race (WFOR)
CBS owned-and-operated WFOR Miami held a debate inbetween incumbent Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Tim Canova in the race for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District on August 14. The hour-long debate was broadcast live during the station’s “Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede” program. It will likely be the only race debate before the August thirty election.
Univision Provides Multi-Platform Coverage of Orlando Massacre (Univision Orlando)
Univision News reported from Orlando within hours of the Pulse shooting, providing coverage on television, radio and digital platforms. A special digital report “49 vнctimas del odio” (49 victims of hatred) launched on June 17. The sensational report “Inside the house of Omar Mateen” was picked up by media organizations in the U.S. and all over the world, including in Italian and Dutch. Univision Puerto Rico aired the hour-and-a-half special “Unidos por Orlando” (United for Orlando) on June 17. Univision’s news magazine demonstrate produced “Aqui y Ahora” (Here & Now); “Terror en Orlando” (Terror in Orlando) on June nineteen and “El Omar Que Yo Conoci” (The Omar I Knew) on June 24.
WFTV Investigates Hidden License Plates (WFTV)
Cox Media’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando investigated fresh ways drivers are hiding license plates from traffic cameras. Each year, thousands of dollars in fines are lost to drivers who hide their plates.
WFTV Investigates Attorney General’s Involvement In Crimson Light Ticket (WFTV-TV)
Cox Media Group’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando investigated Attorney general Pam Bondi’s involvement in a local crimson light camera case. A local driver, who is fighting a crimson light camera ticket, said he was shocked when the highest law enforcement official in the state took an interest in his case. But court documents obtained by the station demonstrate that, in part, the motivation for Bondi is money. The 9th Circuit has already ruled in previous cases that companies can’t substitute cities and counties. The question: Can drivers use that as a defense to get tickets threw? And, if they can, how much money does the state stand to lose?
WFTV Investigates Area School’s Background Check Process (WFTV-TV)
Cox Media Group’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando investigated area school’s background check process after a high school coach was arrested on a drug charge. The coach failed to disclose his criminal history years ago on his employment application, and was recently accused of running a multistate drug ring. The district didn’t catch the issue until after the coach, Benjamin Jenkins, was permitted on the field and in classrooms after failing to disclose a misdemeanor drug arrest on his two thousand fourteen application, and no background check was performed.
WFTX-TV Investigates Beach Water Quality (WFTX-TV)
E.W. Scripp’s Fox affiliate WFTX-TV Fort Myers, Fla. investigated beach water quality after bacteria and potentially toxic algae began plaguing local waterways. The problem, likely sparked by Lake Okeechobee water releases, is gaining national attention, but the solutions to the problems remain in brief supply.
Television Station Groups Unite to Cover Tragedy (Broadcast Television)
TVSpy reported on television station groups collaborative efforts. Cox Media Group’s CBS affiliate WJAX-TV Jacksonville, ABC affiliate WSB-TV Atlanta, Fox affiliate WFXT Boston, CBS affiliate WHIO Dayton, and its Washington, D.C. bureau sent reporters, photographers and producers to support ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando.
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH Orlando was joined by team members from its Washington, D.C. bureau, ABC affiliate WPBF-TV West Palm Beach, plus NBC affiliates WBAL-TV Baltimore, WXII Winston-Salem, N.C., WYFF-TV Greenville, S.C., and WGAL Lancaster, Pa.
Fox-owned WOFL received support from stations in Tampa, Philadelphia and Chicago during wall-to-wall coverage from six a.m. to 11:40 p.m. on June 12. On June 13, WOFL focused on the police investigation and the effect on the community from five – ten a.m. and in special hour-long newscasts at noon and four p.m.
It does give you pause for what this business is all about, which is providing a service and information to the public,” WOFL Vice President of News Jeff Zeller told Broadcasting & Cable.
Graham Media Group’s (GMC) NBC affiliate WDIV Detroit told TVSpy that all GMG stations made an effort to assist CBS affiliate WKMG Orlando, as the station provided wall-to-wall coverage. “Our hearts go out to the people of Orlando. WKMG is part of the Graham Media family and we all support each other,” said WDIV General Manager Marla Drutz. “I can’t imagine what they and their viewers are going through.”
Radio Provides Extensive Coverage of Unthinkable Terror Attack (Broadcast Radio)
Radio Ink and Inwards Radio provided details on broadcast radio stations’ response to the tragedy. CBS Radio brought personnel from all of its morning shows to help WQMP-FM and WOMX-FM Orlando. As listeners asked how they could help, CBS provided information on where to donate blood.
Westwood One sent two reporters, Alan Scaia and Scott Kimbler, to Orlando on June twelve to cover the massacre. The station group quickly committed to keeping Scaia and Kimbler in Orlando all week to cover the aftermath and President Obama’s planned excursion to Orlando on June 16.
iHeartMedia Orlando’s WFLA-FM, WXXL-FM, WJFF-FM and WYGM-AM preempted programming to air extensive news coverage produced by WFLA-FM and playmates WOFL-TV and WESH-TV. “The LBGT community is well represented within our on-air talent and so there was poignancy to many of the talent exchanges,” iHeartMedia’s Chris Kampmeier said. He added that radio has a unique capability to “permit and embrace listeners calling in to share their feelings and any direct skill of the situation they may have. They want to feel like they are part of the community and being on the radio and/or hearing those who are helps everyone feel connected and involved.”
“Watching radio doing just that with its audience during such heartbreak these past few days was another reminder of the value of our storied industry and why radio talent matter,” Cumulus and Westwood One Vice President Lori Lewis told All Access. “The Orlando radio market, along with cities across the country, shined in the darkest times.”
“Where radio distinguishes itself and what truly spotlights its niche among all media is/was and will proceed to be, its distinct capability to reach out, dig in and be part ’of’ the community,” said Radio Ink Publisher Deborah Parenti.
Cox Media Group (CMG)’s Orlando stations WPYO-FM, WCFB-FM, WMMO-FM, WWKA-FM and WDBO-FM worked with CMG’s ABC affiliate WFTV to simulcast live coverage and provide reports to stations nationwide. Morning display hosts from all stations gathered at WDBO for an on-air roundtable discussion, permitting listeners to react while the news team gathered and distributed information. CMG Orlando staff members worked around the clock, providing twelve hours of wall-to-wall coverage on June 12.
“We knew that this story would capture the community, the state, and the nation and we desired to provide a way for listeners to learn, share, and connect with each other and with our on-air team,” said Operations Manager Drew Anderssen. “[We were] getting very diverse calls, most from worried listeners who want to be able to contribute in some way to the needs of the community. Many are sharing their stories from loved ones and their families/friends.”
“We are an extension of the community and we are here for our listeners to vent, sob and share their feelings,” WQMP-FM and WOMX-FM Program Director Dennis Martinez told Inwards Radio.
Broadcasters Support Orlando Community Following Massacre (Broadcast)
Radio Ink also reported on CBS Radio and Cox Media Group’s efforts in the week following the attack. CBS Radio’s WQMP-FM Orlando hosted a blood drive on June 13, also collecting donations of water, sports drinks and orange juice for blood donors. CBS Radio also worked with the city to plan and promote a candlelight vigil. Stations promoted and provided finish live coverage of local vigils across the country.
Cox Media Group’s Orlando stations broadcast and streamed on June thirteen a two-hour roundtable discussion “Orlando Terror Attacks. Our City Reacts,” during which on air hosts discussed the massacre and took calls from listeners. WWKA-FM and WRDQ-TV will host abenefit concert on June twenty one for the City of Orlando’s OneOrlando Fund.
OTA Broadcasting’s MyNetworkTV affiliate KMIR-TV Palm Springs, Calif. invited the public to attend a special live event “Standing United,” held June 17. The Palm Springs mayor, LGBT and Islamic officials, and other local faith and community leaders will participate in the event. “Standing United” will air with no commercial interruptions and stream live on KMIR.com and Facebook LIVE. “We heard the community noisy and clear at Sunday night’s vigil in Palm Springs,” said KMIR News Director David Reese. “They want to come together after this tragedy and KMIR News is committed to doing our part to make that happen.”
Television Networks Provide Wall-to-Wall Coverage (Television Networks)
Broadcasting & Cable provided details on network television coverage of the massacre. The television networks main anchors – CBS’s Scott Pelley, NBC’s Lester Holt and ABC’s David Muir also all flew to Orlando on June twelve to broadcast special evening newscasts. ABC sent six reporters to assist those already in Orlando, with NBC dedicating four reporters to the story. Charlie Rose and Gayle King of “CBS This Morning” also broadcast from Orlando. Coverage in the days that followed included special editions of “Dateline NBC” and ABC’s “20/20” that were dedicated to the massacre.
Television Networks Provide Wall-to-Wall Coverage (Television Networks)
Broadcasting & Cable provided details on network television coverage of the massacre. The television networks main anchors – CBS’s Scott Pelley, NBC’s Lester Holt and ABC’s David Muir also all flew to Orlando on June twelve to broadcast special evening newscasts. ABC sent six reporters to assist those already in Orlando, with NBC dedicateing four reporters to the story. Charlie Rose and Gayle King of “CBS This Morning” also broadcast from Orlando. Coverage in the days that followed included special editions of “Dateline NBC” and ABC’s “20/20” that were loyal to the massacre.
WESH-TV Coverage of Orlando Massacre (WESH-TV)
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH-TV Daytona Beach supplemented its wall-to-wall coverage with live violating news coverage with Spanish captioning on its sister station, Estrella TV Orlando during primetime on June 12. This live coverage was distributed to Hearst’s Spanish stations in Sacramento, Tampa, Albuquerque and Monterey.
WFTV Investigates Contractor Accused of Deceiving Consumers (WFTV)
Cox Media Group’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando exposed a contractor for deceiving consumers. After viewer Bessie Hudson claimed McMurphy Fencing collected $Two,000 for a fresh fence but did not supply, WFTV found seven other families had the same issue. When reporter Todd Ulrich contacted McMurphy, he promised a total refund for Hudson. It never came. Ulrich found that McMurphy Fences illegally uses a different company’s address in legal documents. Thanks to WFTV, Florida’s Attorney General sued McMurphy for unfair and deceptive trade. The police later charged him with grand theft and fraud.
WHPT-FM Supports Kids With Cancer (WHPT-FM)
Cox Media Group’s WHPT-FM Tampa Bay afternoon host Drew Garabo threw a party on June four for children battling cancer. At the event, he introduced an iPad to twelve of the kids. The party concluded WHPT’s “Apple a Day” program in May. Morning host Mike Calta also helped raise over $13,000 through his showcase. “Children should have to worry about what movie game they want to play, or how to ace a test, not about fighting for their life. I’m hoping that we can help them keep their mind occupied at such a challenging time,” Garabo said.
WPLG Investigates Failed Bullying Policies (WPLG-TV)
Berkshire Hathaway’s ABC Affiliate WPLG-TV Miami aired an investigation by reporter Bob Norman into the Broward County Public School System’s failed bullying policies. WPLG also exposed Dillard High School’s inactivity in addressing the repeated bullying and alarming physical and spoken attacks on students targeted by gangs of classmates.
WPBF Studies Advances in Transportation Technology (WPBF-TV)
Hearst Television’s ABC affiliate WPBF-TV West Palm Beach, Fla. aired “WPBF Investigates: Planes, Trains and Automobiles” on May 12. The report investigates cutting-edge technology that is improving the way we operate transportation. Learn more here.
WINK-TV Uncovers Hookup Offenders (WINK-TV)
Fort Meyer’s Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate WINK-TV Ft. Meyers, Fla. conducted an investigation that found at least thirteen offenders who were not following the state law requiring them to register their internet information and social media accounts with their local sheriff’s office. The station’s work led to criminal investigations headed by the county.
WLTV Honors Outstanding Local High School Students (WLTV)
Univision-owned WLTV Miami honored ten local high school seniors with its 19th annual “Orgullo de Nuestra Juventud” (Pride of our Youth) award, introduced at a lunch on May Five. Six students received awards for academic excellence and community service, while the other four were recognized for academic growth. The students received college scholarships and bounty cards to help with expenses.
WFLA Tampa Expands Midday News (WFLA-TV)
Media General’s NBC affiliate WFLA Tampa, will be expanding its local news coverage with a fresh one-hour midday newscast at eleven a.m. beginning on June 13. Meteorologist Leigh Spann will join co-anchors Stacie Schaible and Gene Ramirez.
WFTV Investigates Bacteria in Lagoons (WFTV-TV)
Cox Media Group’s WFTV-TV Orlando aired an investigative story on May one in which reporter Christopher Heath highlighted the fact that scientists from Florida Atlantic University have discovered a fresh link inbetween people’s exposure to a deadly bacteria in Florida lagoons and estuaries known as Vibrio and their consumption or treating of raw and uncooked fish or shellfish.
WJXT Event Provides Free Dental Treatment to Two,900 People (WJXT)
Graham Media Group’s WJXT Jacksonville, Fla. partnered with the Florida Dental Association on a free clinic that provided over Five,000 dental procedures to Two,900 patients on April twenty two – 23. The services, valued at $Two.7 million, included fillings, examinations, extractions, root cavern therapy, children’s care and cleanings. People began to line up two days prior to the event. “The capability of WJXT to get the word out and reach the dentally underserved was absolutely astonishing as witnessed by the tremendous turnout of dental patients on both days,” said Dr. Roger Robinson, an event organizer.
WTVJ Fucking partners With YMCA to Prevent Drowning (WTVJ-TV)
NBC-owned WTVJ-TV Miami partnered with the YMCA of South Florida on a week-long “Swim Week” series, which aired April 18–22. The series addressed the high rate of drowning for children junior than 14. “We hope that our viewers benefit from the information our series will provide so in the end, no one has to suffer from more drowning tragedies,” said General Manager Larry Olevitch. The series highlights stories of families affected by drowning and YMCA resources available to viewers. The YMCA’s mobile aquatic team travels to local communities across the summer to suggest free swim lessons.
Cox Celebrates Earth Day (Cox Media Group)
CMG Orlando Radio and Cox Events held “Keep Winter Park Beautiful’s Earth Day in the Park” on April Ten. The event included yoga, sustainability projects, tree giveaways and seedling plantings.
WLTV Launches Sunday Public Affairs Showcase (WLTV)
Univision-owned WLTV Miami debuted a fresh Sunday morning public affairs showcase, “Al Punto Florida,” on April 24. The hour-long program features politicians, newsmakers and celebrities discussing issues that affect the Hispanic community in Central and South Florida. The show’s premiere featured an off the hook interview with former Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio; a segment on the influence of the Hispanic vote in Florida; and analysis of the two thousand sixteen Miami-Dade County mayoral race.
WOFL Now Airs Six Hours of Local News Each Morning (WOFL)
Fox-owned WOFL-TV Orlando expanded its morning weekday local newscast to begin at four a.m., kicking off April 25. The station now offers six hours of local news from four to ten a.m. each weekday, bringing the weekly total to fifty three hours.
Cox Media Group Cleans Up Local Waterway (Cox Media Group)
Cox Media Group Orlando hosted the two thousand sixteen team Cox Orlando Sea Cleanup with American Rivers and Keep Seminole Beautiful on March 12. The cleanup was held at Wekiva island in Longwood, Fla. Cox employees picked up almost 1,000 pounds of trash.
WSNN-LD Provides Lifeline Coverage of Sarasota Tornado (WSNN)
Suncoast News Network’s WSNN Sarasota, Fla., provided lifeline coverage of tornados on Jan. Seventeen that killed two and caused widespread property harm. Meteorologists Justin Mosely, Cassie Nall and Joshua Rivas accurately predicted the storm’s development off the Gulf Coast, providing viewers with ample warning so they could prepare. WSNN provided more than nine hours of continuous live coverage. In the following weeks, WSNN covered rebuilding efforts, including Governor Rick Scott’s excursion to Siesta Key. “Our viewers depend upon SNN,” said President and General Manager Doug Barker. “They know when the weather turns bad, SNN will be there live and will stay live as long as conditions warrant.” Read comments from appreciative viewers.
WESH Celebrates Black History Month (WESH-TV)
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH Orlando highlighted and honored local black Central Floridians who have made significant contributions to the community.
WJXT Investigates City Waste (WJXT-TV)
Graham Media Group’s WJXT-TV Jacksonville, Fla. aired an investigative report on February eight displaying that the city was ready to write off millions of dollars of municipal property found to be missing or stolen over the past several years. WJXT analyzed a list of hundreds of missing or stolen city equipment from June two thousand fourteen to July 1, two thousand fifteen that included courthouse movie systems, ice machines, breathalyzers, and even bullet proof shields. The purchase prices of the items on the list totaled $1.Two million. One week after the report aired, fresh legislation was introduced to the council authorizing the director of finance to delete all unaccountable items from their books from two thousand ten to 2016.
WESH-TV Investigates Medicine Problems (WESH-TV)
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH-TV Daytona Beach, Fla. conducted an 11-month investigation into a rule intended to curb drug manhandle in Florida that prevented dying patients from getting ache medication their doctors had lawfully prescribed. The investigation coerced switch at pharmacies and in Florida’s capitol.
Radio Hosts Participates in Baby Basics Walking Challenge (WXKB-FM)
On-air personality Joe Winner of Beasley’s WXKB-FM Cape Coral, Fla. participated in the 7th Annual Baby Basics Walking Challenge, which raises money to buy diapers for babies in low-income families whose parents are working but not receiving federal or state assistance. These event raised enough to purchase 120,000 diapers.
WJXT Uncovers Unsafe Living Conditions (WJXT)
Graham Media possessed WJXT Jacksonville exposed unsafe conditions at the Eureka Gardens Apartments, including crumbling staircases, mold and gas leasks. WJXT brought attention to residents’ frustration, which they voiced when the elaborate passed a Department of Housing and Urban Development inspection. Eureka Gardens’ possessor subsequently announced plans for major switches.
Telemundo Invests in Local Initiatives (Telemundo)
The Miami Herald recently highlighted Telemundo Station Group’s local initiatives, including the addition of nine “Telemundo Responde” investigative units. The unit has recovered more than $Trio.Five million for consumers by investigating local businesses such as auto mechanics and tax agencies. The annual telethon for the Miami-based Liga Contra el Cбncer (League Against Cancer) generates most of the organization’s yearly budget. “We want to be the station that violates news and covers weather for our audience,” said Telemundo Station Group President Manuel Martinez. “We have a specific relationship with our audience, because if you’re not one hundred percent fluent in English, you come to us every day for your entertainment and information.
WTSP Tampa Investigates Political Influence (WTSP)
Tegna’s CBS affiliate WTSP St. Petersburg, Fla. aired “The Gatekeeper,” a newscast and 6,000-word online story with links to public records and online-only movies based on reporter Noah Pransky’s year-long investigation into private public relations consultant Beth Leytham. Pransky found evidence that Leytham may be skirting lobbying registration laws. Her clients include Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan. After the story broke, a city council member called for a review of Tampa’s lobbying rules. The county administrator asked the sheriff to review the award of a $1.35 million contract to one of Leytham’s clients, who used her as a subcontractor.
WWSB-TV Launches seven p.m. Newscast (WWSB-TV)
WKMG-TV Adds four p.m. Newscast (WKMG-TV)
Graham Media Group’s CBS affiliate WKMG-TV Orlando will suggest a four p.m. newscast embarking Sept. 7. The station announced the extra newscast on social media and during regular newscasts. It will feature anchors Julie Broughton, Matt Austin, Lisa Bell and Ginger Gadsden and Chief Meteorologist Tom Sorrells.
Cox Orlando Hosts Discussion With Police (Cox Orlando)
Cox Media Group Orlando hosted “Unity in the Community: Law Enforcement in Central Florida” on June Ten. WDBO-FM Orlando’s Joe Kelley and WCFB-FM Daytona Beach’s Monica May moderated the panel, which aired and streamed live on both stations. Experts discussed local law enforcement’s role in the community and answered listeners’ questions. Panelists included Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings, Orlando Police Chief John Mina, Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith, former Chief Judge Belvin Perry and Executive Director of Crimeline Barb Bergin.
WSCV-TV Nets $Four Million for Cancer Research (WSCV-TV)
NBC’s Telemundo affiliate WSCV-TV Miami raised $Four.1 million during a telethon for La Liga Contra el Cancer, bringing the event’s 17-year total to $60 million. La Liga Contra el Cancer provides free medical screenings and treatments. “As we budge into our 31st year, we remain committed to our audience as providers of journalistic excellence in our newscasts, as a preferred provider of entertainment and as a major supporter of efforts on behalf of our community,” WSCV President Jorge Carballo told TVNewsCheck.
WDBO-FM Orlando Hosts Discuss Domestic Violence (WDBO-FM)
Cox Media Group’s WDBO-FM Orlando aired a one-hour special, Awareness & Activity: Domestic Violence on May 6. The program discussed how every minute, twenty people are victims of intimate fucking partner violence and about twenty five percent of all women will practice domestic violence at some point. The panel included Belvin Perry, Former Chief Judge, who presided over the Casey Anthony murder trial; Jeff Ashton, Florida’s Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney and prosecution team member in the Casey Anthony trial; and several experts from the law and social services fields. The program aired live on WDBO-FM and streamed online on Cox Media Group’s five Orlando radio stations: WDBO-FM, WWKA-FM, WCFB-FM, WMMO-FM and WPYO-FM.
Jacksonville Debate Airs on Radio, TV (Jacksonville Radio, TV Broadcasters)
Bayshore Television’s CBS affiliate WJAX-TV Jacksonville hosted a debate on May six inbetween candidates for Jacksonville mayor, incumbent Alvin Brown and Republican challenger Lenny Curry. Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM Jacksonville also broadcast the event.
Florida Association of Broadcasters Makes Presidential Forum Available (Florida Association of Broadcasters)
The Florida Association of Broadcasters provided a satellite uplink for local and national stations to cover the Economic Summit on June 2nd. During the event, Florida Governor Rick Scott hosted prospective two thousand sixteen Republican Presidential candidates, who each had thirty minutes to discuss their views on jobs and economic growth. Morning speakers included Scott, Florida Senator Marco Rubio, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, former Texas Governor Rick Perry and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker. The afternoon program featured Fresh Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and former Florida Governor Jeb Pubic hair. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Kentucky Senator Rand Paul declined the invitation.
WESH-TV Meteorologists Tony Mainolfi and Amy Sweezey Bolster ’Read to Me’ Campaign (WESH-TV)
Hearst Television wielded NBC Affiliate WESH-TV Daytona Beach, Fla. meteorologists Tony Mainolfi and Amy Sweezey worked to promote national “Read to Me” literacy campaign, which urges adults to read to children. In addition, the two meteorologists encouraged local actors to volunteer for BookPALS, or Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools.
WLLD Hosts Fucktoy Drive for Nonprofit, The Children’s Home (WLLD)
Beasley Broadcast Group’s WLLD-FM Tampa raised $12,254 and three hundred five bicycles in its third annual fucktoy drive benefiting The Children’s Home. The Children’s Home serves manhandled and abandoned children and their families through therapeutic and traditional foster homes, in addition to supporting relative care-givers. In just three years Orlando’s Fucktoy Drive has raised over $22,000 in bounty card and cash donations, 1,100 bicycles and thousands of fucktoys.
Univision Hosts Its Fourth Annual Education Week (Univision)
Univision’s Education Week 2014, held Oct. Four – eleven across its one hundred twenty eight radio and TV stations and its multimedia platforms, included on-air segments; phone banks that answered more than Three,000 questions from viewers; and online college fairs. More than Two,000 viewers attended a free education fair in San Antonio on Oct. Four, which included exhibits and sessions on scholarships, financial aid, career planning and bilingual education. WLTV Miami’s Education Week events included “Camino a la Universidad,” a workshop that educated 11th grade students and their parents on the steps needed for a college education; its 13th annual “Club de Libros 23,” a Parent Academy with sessions on enrollment, financial aid and scholarships; and phone banks for questions on education.
Florida Gubernatorial Candidate Debates Air on Local Stations (Local Broadcasters)
Charlie Crist and Rick Scott, candidates for Florida governor, met in three debates: Oct. Ten on Spanish-language Telemundo; Oct. Fifteen on CBS owned-and-operated WFOR-TV Miami; and Oct. Twenty one on Graham Media Group owned-and-operated WJXT Jacksonville. Univision’s owned-and-operated WLTV-TV Miami and WAQI-AM Miami hosted a debate on Oct. Twenty one inbetween Carlos Curbelo and Joe Garcia, candidates for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
WFOR-TV Miami Commits Air Time for Political Debates (WFOR-TV)
CBS Television owned-and-operated stations produced and aired debates across the country:
- KTXA Dallas, Oct. Five, Governor [Greg Abbott, Wendy Davis]; Lt. Governor [Dan Patrick, Leticia Van de Putte]
WFTS Tampa Reunites Missing Boy With Family (WFTS)
Scripps’ ABC affiliate WFTS Tampa reunited a missing boy with his family. Paul Ezekiel Fagan, who has a mild learning disability, was last seen playing in his front yard on September 25. WFTS anchor Cameron Polom witnessed a child fitting his description after a press conference on his disappearance the next day. After confirming the child was Paul, Polom brought him home. Click here to witness Paul’s emotional reunion with his grandmother and father.
NFL Domestic Violence Issues Spark Initiatives at WFTS Tampa (WFTS)
Broadcasters ramping up domestic violence initiatives through special news reports, telethons and tributes to victims following latest NFL incidents include E. W. Scripps’ WEWS Cleveland, WFTS Tampa and Raycom’s Honolulu stations, CBS affiliate KGMB and NBC affiliate KHNL, according to Broadcasting & Cable. In addition, Capitol Broadcasting launched the “eNOughNC” campaign, with WRAL-TV and WRAZ-TV Raleigh, NC producing two PSAs that debuted during an NFL game featuring Ray Rice’s former team, the Ravens, and ran on WILM Wilmington and Capitol radio stations. “eNOughNC” provides education on how to break the domestic violence cycle.
WSCV Miami Hosts Spanish-Language Gubernatorial Debates in Several States (WSCV)
Telemundo is hosting a series of Spanish-language debates in September and October leading up to gubernatorial elections in several states. “We believe it is fundamentally significant for our Spanish-language viewers and the Hispanic communities we serve across the country to be actively involved in the discussions that are taking place this election season,” said Telemundo Station Group President Manuel Martinez. The debate series and other initiatives on Telemundo-owned stations include:
- California, September Four: KVEA Burbank, PBS affiliate KQED San Francisco and the Los Angeles Times hosted a debate inbetween incumbent Gov. Jerry Brown and challenger Neel Kashkari, which also aired on KNSO Fresno, KSTS San Jose and KUNA Palm Springs.
WXKB-FM Distributes Thousands of Back-to-School Items (WXKB-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting’s WXKB-FM Estero, Fla., recently partnered with Lipman Produce to sponsor a backpack giveaway event. WXKB-FM collected more than 1,200 backpacks, three hundred bike helmets, Two,000 pounds of food, fifty free haircuts and much more, all of which were donated to students across Southwestern Florida.
Univision Radio Miami Supports Local Children’s Shelter (Univision Radio Miami)
For two weeks during July, the employees of Univision Radio’s Miami stations collected almost $500 and several boxes of food and non-perishable items for the children of His House Children’s Home located in Miramar, Fl. His House Children’s Home is a private, nonprofit, faith-based group that provides residential care for manhandled, abandoned and neglected children in a home-like setting. The radio stations assisted the organization, which is permanently receiving and supporting children in need of help.
President Calls on Broadcasters to Spread Climate Message (Broadcaters)
President Barack Obama recently invited eight weather broadcasters to the White House to help raise awareness of the National Climate Assessment, a fresh report that explains how the heating climate is causing dramatic switches across the United States. The Fresh York Times reports, “Polls showcase that local television weathercasters are among the most trusted media figures.” Broadcasters who were invited included NBC’s Al Roker, and meteorologists from Gannett Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate WLTX-TV Columbia, S.C., and NBC-owned WTVJ-TV Miami.
WLTV-TV Honors Outstanding Miami High School Students (WLTV-TV)
Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami honored ten outstanding South Florida high school students with its 17th annual Papa John’s Pizza Orgullo de Nuestra Juventud (Pride of our Youth) Awards. The awards luncheon was hosted by WLTV-TV news anchor Alina Mayo Azze. Six of the ten students were recognized for academic excellence and outstanding commitment to civic duty. The four other students were recognized with the Academic Achievement Award for demonstrating academic growth and overcoming setbacks in their private life. The students were awarded scholarships by Papa John’s Pizza, and Miami-Dade College suggested each student free tuition if they chose to pursue their university education there.
WFOR-TV to Hold Florida Gubernatorial Debate on Oct. Fifteen (WFOR-TV)
CBS Television’s WFOR-TV Miami announced it will produce and broadcast a statewide televised debate for the major candidates running in the Florida governor’s race later this fall. The hour-long debate is slated to air from seven a.m. to eight p.m. on October 15, and will be held at Broward College’s Davie Campus. The debate will be broadcast on ten other stations across the state, including Hearst’s ABC affiliate WPBF-TV.
WLTV-TV Promotes Univision Education Campaign (WLTV-TV)
Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami has visited more than eighteen schools and participated at several events as part of the Pequeсos y Valiosos (Youthfull and Valuable) campaign, which raises awareness among parents about the importance of actively interacting with their children every day, from birth through the pre-school years, in order to help them learn. During these school visits, education reporter Maria Fernanda Lopez has read to the children and facilitated workshops for their parents. The campaign invites parents and families to make a pledge to engage with their kids for at least fifteen minutes each day, without interruption.
WPOW-FM Gives Bullied Boy the Royal Treatment (WPOW-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting Group’s WPOW-FM Miami recently held an anti-bullying rally for a local nine-year-old boy after learning of his fights at school. WPOW-FM staff reached out to local sponsors to give the student, Osmany Franco, the royal treatment on his way into school. He drove in a convertible to Redland Elementary School and was joined by WPOW-FM’s morning showcase host “Big Al,” the Miami Marlins team van, and a police escort. Osmany, who suffers from developmental issues, will also receive VIP seats to a future Miami Fever game, and will participate in the halftime free throw contest.
WEAR-TV to Collect Money for Victims of Latest Storms (WEAR-TV)
Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WEAR-TV Pensacola, Fla., is teaming up with the United Way and several local radio playmates to raise money to help the victims of the latest storms. WEAR-TV’s staff will broadcast live from two local malls from five a.m. – seven p.m. on May nine to collect monetary donations from viewers and listeners. All the proceeds will be donated to the United Way.
WTSP-TV to Host Florida Gubernatorial Debate on Oct. Seven (WTSP-TV)
Gannett’s CBS affiliate WTSP-TV St. Petersburg, Fla., announced it has partnered with the Tampa Bay Times and the University of South Florida (USF) to present a statewide, televised gubernatorial debate on October 7. The debate will broadcast live on CBS stations across Florida, and Gannett’s NBC affiliate WTLV-TV in Jacksonville. The event will be held in the USF Music Concert Hall before an audience of five hundred guests.
WPTV-TV Launches Campaign to Raise Autism Awareness (WPTV-TV)
Scripps’s NBC affiliate WPTV-TV Palm Beach, Fla., launched an Influence five campaign, to raise awareness of autism. WPTV-TV assembled an advisory panel of parents, educators and autism advocates to guide the station’s on-air and online coverage, which airs every Wednesday in a special segment during the six pm newscast and on weekend mornings. The ongoing campaign will also include four phone banks for viewers to call in and ask questions, four primetime specials and a special autism website. Click here to witness movies from the Influence five campaign.
WLTV-TV Miami-Fort Lauderdale (WLTV-TV)
As part of Univision Educaciуn, Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami-Fort Lauderdale launched its fourth year of “Camino a la Universidad” (Road to the University), a series of workshops that pairs exceptional students with professional adults who assist students and motivate them to reach their individual, educational and professional goals. The program concentrates on those students who have the desire and abilities to succeed, but whom also need extra support to reach their potential. The informational sessions feature inspirational speakers that will provide college and career planning advice to help the students via their college application process.
WIIS-FM Recognizes Key West Nonprofits and Volunteers with Weekly Awards (WIIS-FM)
Independently-owned WIIS-FM Key West, Fla., has partnered with the local Community Foundation of the Florida Keys to launch the “Nonprofit and Volunteer of the Week Awards.” Each week the Foundation selects a worthy local nonprofit and an outstanding volunteer, and WIIS-FM mentions that person and the organization on air numerous times across the week. The winners get on-air recognition, a framed certificate and a bounty certificate to a local restaurant.
WFTS Wins Service to Community Award for Television (WFTS)
Addressing head-on a significant problem in the Tampa Bay area specifically and in the country as a entire, WFTS launched a six week Taking Act Against Domestic Violence campaign aimed at heightening awareness, educating viewers and inspiring victims of manhandle through the stories of survivors. The campaign featured weekly news stories, PSAs, in-studio interviews with local advocates and a one hour commercial-free primetime special that helped raise approximately $230,000. Included in every element of the campaign, the statewide Domestic Violence Hotline spotted a seventy seven percent increase in calls during the six weeks alone. Not stopping there, WFTS reached out to teenagers with a 16-page special edition on Teenage Dating Manhandle, produced with the Tampa Bay Times Newspaper and Education Program. This edition was distributed to more than 150,000 high school students and made available online. WFTS also put a spotlight on workplace violence, hosting a Domestic Violence in the Workplace Seminar. Amid numerous public appearances for domestic violence community events, the collection of supplies for domestic violence shelters, a dedicated year-round website page with links and resources and a Facebook page, WFTS has created a lifeline for many suffering in the shadow of domestic manhandle. What began out as a campaign to better the community has ended up a campaign that saves lives.
WLTV-TV Miami Celebrates Univision’s Education Week two thousand thirteen (WLTV-TV)
Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami organized many events during Univision’s Education Week two thousand thirteen to inform parents and prepare students for higher education. WLTV-TV held an education town hall moderated by reporter Sandra Peebles to discuss the college application process. The station also kicked off its 12th annual “Club de Libros 23” in which WLTV-TV’s education reporter, Maria Fernandez Lopez, visits schools every week and reads with students.
WFTS-TV Tampa Takes Activity to Fight Domestic Violence (WFTS-TV)
Scripps Television’s ABC affiliate WFTS-TV Tampa partnered with the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence on its two thousand thirteen Taking Act Against Domestic Violence Campaign. The six-week campaign featured weekly news stories, PSAs, interviews with local advocates, a free community event and an hour-long, commercial-free, primetime special. All campaign elements displayed the statewide domestic violence hotline phone number.
Univision’s WLTV-TV Makes Strides During National Citizenship Day (WLTV-TV)
To support National Citizenship Day on September 17, Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami partnered with the Florida International University Law Department’s citizenship clinic, Hispanic Unity of Florida, Read2Succeed and Catholic Legal Services to provide guidance on the naturalization process and help with the N-400 application. WLTV-TV hosted local workshops to encourage legal permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship during National Citizenship Week. In addition, WLTV-TV hosted a phone bank, fielding more than Two,000 calls with questions related to citizenship. As a result, more than three hundred applications were processed and extra workshops are being scheduled to assist the rest of the viewers that called into the station.
WSCV-TV Miami Cancer Telethon Raises $Four.Five Million (WSCV-TV)
Peg Broadcasting’s WSCV-TV Miami raised $Four.Five million for the Liga Contra el Cancer (League Against Cancer), which offers free screenings and cancer treatment to low-income patients. “This annual telethon raises the funds . [so] the organization can proceed to provide the medical services and specialized care that will save so many lives in our community,” Jorge Carballo, president-GM, told TVNewsCheck. The telethon was dedicated to the memory of salsa performer Celia Cruz, a major supporter of Liga Contra el Cancer.
WPOW-FM Host Drives 80,000 Pounds of Supplies to Moore (WPOW-FM)
Beasley Broadcast Group’s WPOW-FM Miami collected 80,000 pounds of supplies such as water, non-perishable food, baby supplies, pet supplies, electrical wheelchairs, toiletries, rakes and shovels for tornado victims in Moore, Okla. During three days of live broadcasts, the station encouraged residents to write “messages of hope” on their donated items to add a private touch. WPOW-FM afternoon host Africa traveled twenty seven hours from Miami to Moore with the two trucks that contained the 80,000 pounds of goods. The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Club provided three hundred retired police officers as an escort on the journey, which WPOW-FM documented on-air and via social media.
WZNS-FM Helps Make Prom a Night to Recall (WZNS-FM)
Cumulus Media’s WZNS-FM Fort Walton Beach, Fla., donated prom dresses to one hundred eleven teenagers at seventeen local high schools whose families could not afford to buy prom dresses. Many of the four hundred fifty dresses available to the damsels, worth more than $22,000, were fresh and still had the original tags. WZNS-FM fucking partners with a local mall, which provides store space and dressing rooms. A local dry cleaner, which donates its services. For the past nine years, the campaign has served youthfull people from families affected by the Recession, displacement by Hurricane Katrina and depleted savings from medical bills.
WTKS-FM Host Connects Missing Orlando Boy With His Family (WTKS-FM)
Clear Channel-owned WTKS-FM Orlando’s “The Bucket Demonstrate” helped reunite a mentally disabled 13-year-old boy after he wandered away from the residential facility in which he lives. The boy’s stepfather called WTKS-FM and asked for help to get the word out about his missing son. WTKS-FM posted the boy’s picture and information online. Within two hours, the boy was spotted by a listener and reunited with his family.
Beasley’s WXKB-FM Fucking partners With American Cancer Society (WXKB-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting Group’s WXKB-FM Estero, Fla., has partnered with American Cancer Society to promote the Relay for Life Fort Myers Beach and raise money for the Society. WXKB-FM is holding an online auction, and all proceeds will go to the local American Cancer Society. WXKB-FM is also urging listeners to form a Relay for Life Team to fundraise for the Society. The Relay will take place on April 13.
WKMG-TV Orlando, WJXT-TV Jacksonville, WPLG-TV Miami Suggest Free Airtime (WKMG-TV, WJXT-TV, WPLG-TV)
Candidates for the two thousand twelve elections will be eligible for free airtime and free Web-time in the thirty days preceding the general elections. Post-Newsweek stations will suggest free airtime on its television stations in the battleground states of Texas, Florida and Michigan: WDIV-TV Detroit; KPRC-TV Houston; WPLG-TV Miami; WKMG-TV Orlando; WJXT-TV Jacksonville; and KSAT-TV San Antonio. In addition to the presidential race, each state has significant senatorial and congressional races.
“The two thousand twelve elections are of critical importance, both locally and nationally. Our responsibility as news and public affairs leaders is to ensure that candidates and voters have a platform for rigorous public discussion and debate,” said a station representative.
WCKT-FM Raises Over $287,000 for Children’s Hospital in Florida (WCKT-FM)
Clear Channel’s WCKT-FM Ft. Meyers, Fla., raised over $287,000 during their 10th annual “Helping Kids with Cancer” radiothon to benefit Children’s Hospital at Lee Memorial Health System. All proceeds from the event’s record-breaking total went to the Barbara’s Friends fund, which helps pack treatment and educational needs so pediatric oncology patients do not have to travel far for care.
NBC’s WTVJ-TV Miami Broadcast Senatorial Debate (WTVJ-TV)
NBC-owned WTVJ-TV Miami televised a Florida senatorial debate on October 17, featuring incumbent Bill Nelson and Republican challenger Connie Mack. The debate was part of “Decision 2012: Before You Vote” and was produced by the partnership with Leadership Florida and the Florida Press Association. All eleven television markets in Florida broadcast the debate live.
WFLA-TV Aids Sandy Victims (WFLA-TV)
Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Crimson Cross ease efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Crimson Cross donations via newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a seven p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who desired to volunteer or donate money to ease efforts.
WHIF-FM Palatka, Florida Holds Candidate Forums (WHIF-FM)
Independently-owned WHIF-FM Palatka, Florida held candidate forums with all the local candidates in the primary and general elections and made the audio available online. The station also hosted discussions to explain various amendments on the ballot.
WESH-TV Orlando Airs Special Political Program in Advance of Election Day (WESH-TV)
Hearst Broadcasting’s WESH-TV Orlando aired a 30-minute daily political program “Commitment 2012: Extra” from Oct. Eight through Election Day. The demonstrate included live conversations and debates with local candidates, election news and campaign developments. The program was an extension of Hearst’s “Commitment 2012,” which offers at least twelve minutes of political news per weekday. “WESH two News has always taken our role gravely when it comes to informing and educating our viewers before they head to the ballot box,” Bob Longo, WESH news director, told Broadcasting & Cable. “This significant election season, we’re providing viewers an even greater chance to learn about the candidates asking for their votes and the issues so significant to our community.”
NBC News and Telemundo Fucking partner on Election Coverage (NBC News)
NBC News will fucking partner with Telemundo to cover the presidential election. “Decision 2012” will include joint monthly polls, coverage of the campaigns and conventions and events focused on the role of the Hispanic vote, estimated at twenty two million eligible voters. The partnership provides Telemundo access to NBC News’ political content and gives NBC News the benefit of Telemundo’s expertise in the Hispanic community. “This parnership will permit Telemundo and NBC News to suggest news in both languages, reaffirming our deep commitment to inform and empower our community,” said Emilio Romano, president of Telemundo Media. NBC News Senior Vice President Alexandra Wallace will oversee the effort.
NBC News Hosts GOP Debate (NBC News)
Four GOP candidates – Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum and Ron Paul – participated in a debate sponsored by NBC News, the Tampa Bay Times, The National Journal and the Florida Council of 100. It was the very first of two debates focused on the Florida GOP primary.
The event was aired live on the NBC television network and was also streamed live on nbcpolitics.com, nationaljournal.com, and tampabay.com. Telemundo’s live broadcast featured simultaneous Spanish-language translation.
WSUA-AM Miami Talks Politics In two thousand twelve (WSUA-AM)
El Dorado Broadcasters Spanish Talk WSUA-AM Miami will embark the fresh year with a greater emphasis on political coverage through a fresh weekly showcase “Caracol Decision 2012”. The showcase will air live every Tuesday from 8-9 p.m. until election night and will be hosted by veteran news journalist Yoly Cuello, who has covered the last four elections for Radio Caracol. The coverage will include sensational interviews with local, state, and national candidates from both parties, top political experts, and discussions among listeners on topics that are significant to them.
WMOR-TV Offers Showcase Tickets to Military Families (WMOR-TV)
Hearst Corporation’s WMOR-TV Tampa and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey donated tickets to military families at MacDill Air Force base in Tampa as part of the station’s annual Hometown Heroes promotion. WMOR’s Hometown Heroes permits deployed military personnel to provide holiday greetings to loved ones in the Tampa Bay area.
Beasley’s WXKB-FM Collects School Supplies for Fort Myers’ Kids (WXKB-FM)
Beasley-owned WXKB-FM Cape Coral, Fla. recently delivered two pallets of school supplies to the Collier County School district to kick off the fresh academic year. The station’s “Big Mama and The Wild Bunch” staff partnered with Pepsi to collect an assortment of supplies including pencils, pens, markers, crayons and notebooks for area students in need. Together WXKB-FM and Pepsi constructed a house made out of soda cans in the parking lot of a local Wal-Mart. The radio team broadcasted live from inwards the house for four-and-a-half days. In total, the “Big Mama and The Wild Bunch” team collected more than $Ten,000 worth of school supplies. The station also adopted forty three students from the Manhandle Council Treatment Center. Each of the forty three kids received a fresh clothing for their very first day of school and supplies for the academic year.
Radio Stations Encourage Residents to File Gulf Coast Claims (Florida Radio Stations)
Northwest Florida radio broadcasters recently organized a half-hour radio program that updated listeners about the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) filing procedures in the wake of the BP Gulf Coast oil spill, including how to file initial claims and what to do if a claim has been denied. The project was organized by Dave Cobb, general manager of Sunshine Broadcasting. “The BP oil spill hurt the economy of Northwest Florida,” he noted. “Radio stations have come together to promote the importance of filing and [if denied] refilling claims to Ken Feinberg’s GCCF organization.” Many Northwest Florida radio stations also began a 60-day radio advertising campaign that encourages Floridians to file claims. Thus far, radio stations have donated $192,018 in airtime to this initiative.
John Walsh Joins WWNN-AM on the Hunt for Florida’s Most Wished (WWNN-AM o)
Beasley Broadcast Group-owned WWNN-AM Boca Raton, Fla., broadcasts a weekly community-minded radio display, “All Points Bulletin with Sheriff Al Lamberti.” During the program the Broward County, Fla., Sheriff speaks with law enforcement experts about local crime trends and issues. To date, the showcase – which debuted February two thousand ten – has been directly responsible for the capture of eight fugitives and has profiled more than seventy extra criminals. Recently, WWNN-AM welcomed “America’s Most Dreamed” host John Walsh who contributed to the “You’re on Our List” segment of the demonstrate, which is dedicated to apprehending South Florida’s most wished criminals.
WPOZ-FM, WMYZ-FM , WHYZ-FM Launch “Ellis and Tyler’s Dash for Health” (WPOZ-FM, WMYZ-FM , WHYZ-FM)
Fresh Year’s resolutions to eat right and work out are always lighter to keep with a little encouragement, which is why WPOZ-FM, WMYZ-FM and WHYZ-FM in Orlando, Fla., commenced “Ellis and Tyler’s Dash for Health.” The stations’ morning demonstrate team, Ellis Feaster and Tyler McKenzie, invited listeners to join an eight-week wellness initiative, with an ultimate aim of getting both themselves and their fans healthier. Each weekday, local health experts went on the air to give helpful advice about everything from eliminating high-fat foods from the dinner table to finding a balance inbetween family, work and a healthier lifestyle. In addition, weekly emails containing tips and practical recipe ideas were sent to participants, and free “Dash for Health” exercise classes were suggested at area YMCAs. “We feel this is an amazing chance to join with the community to learn how to make healthier lifestyle switches a priority in 2009,” said McKenzie.
WOKV-AM/FM Hob Nob two thousand eleven Provides Access to Jacksonville’s Political (WOKV-AM/FM)
Cox Media Group’s WOKV-AM/FM Jacksonville, Fla., held Hob Nob 2011, an sensational event for local Floridians to meet and greet almost all of the major candidates running in the area’s spring elections. More than seven hundred people, including leaders from business and government, attended the March ten gathering and cast ballots in a straw poll. Twenty-nine candidates were represented with tables at Hob Nob, and several made appearances with their supporters. WOKV-AM/FM reporters covered the event and gathered special audio with key candidates for Jacksonville mayor and sheriff. Hob Nob two thousand eleven was an excellent chance for Jacksonville residents to learn more about the politicians running for elected office and served as a forum for discussing the key issues affecting area residents.
WPOW-FM Raises $50,000 to Help Family with Funeral for Three Kids (WPOW-FM)
When Lazaro ’’DJ Laz’’ Mendez of WPOW-FM Miami, Fla., heard that a local family was fighting to pay for funeral services after their three children were tragically killed in a car accident, he went to the airwaves. During five hours of broadcast, Mendez brought the community together, raising more than $50,000 for a decent burial. Many listeners called in to share their own stories of loss and remembrance, and others came to the station to give in-person donations, including children who brought in their piggybanks.
WPOZ-FM Hosts Free Health Expo (WPOZ-FM)
WPOZ-FM in Altamonte Springs, Fla., provided expectant moms and parents of youthful children with free health and safety information at its 2nd annual “Little Ears Expo.” The expo featured informational booths covering such topics as CPR, parenting technologies, insurance and financial planning, children’s fashions, scrap booking, car-seat demos and more. Attendees also had the chance to learn about preschool options, health, nutrition and behavioral patterns of youthfull children. In addition to visiting various booths, expectant mothers in their 2nd and third trimesters received a free live 4-D ultrasound at the expo. Via the day, experts also delivered seminars on pediatric very first aid, what to expect in a baby’s very first year, breast feeding and pool safety.
WLYF-FM Co-Sponsors “Walk for the Animals” (WLYF-FM)
More than Four,000 pet owners and their wagging best friends showcased up on a Saturday morning in February to participate in the local “Walk for the Animals,” a fundraising event cosponsored by WLYF-FM in Miami, Fla., every year. The event raised $195,000 for the Humane Society of Greater Miami in 2007, a forty two percent increase from 2006. Talent from WLYF hosts the walk and live updates air every hour. In the weeks leading up to the fundraiser, the station uses live and recorded announcements to invite its listeners to join the “LITE FM Paws Patrol” team or create their own. The station Web site lists information and acts as a gateway for the registration process. “Thanks to the airing of public service announcements, live mentions and deejay endorsements before the event, we can ensure that more than Trio,000 people join our efforts. At the event, WLYF puts on a demonstrate and ensures that everyone has a memorable time,” said Emily Marquez-Dulin, the executive director of the Humane Society of Greater Miami. “This event could not be what it is without WLYF.”
WMOR-TV “Pool Patrol” Initiative Addresses the Dangers of Drowning – (WMOR-TV)
Drowning is the number one cause of death for youthfull children in Florida. To help reduce that number, WMOR-TV in Tampa Bay, Fla., embarked its “Pool Patrol” initiative. The station has run hundreds of catches sight of covering four different topics: pool safety and what to do in case of an emergency; swim safety and the benefit of swim classes; securing pool areas with decent fencing and alarms; and the importance of “Water Watchers” supervising all children junior than fourteen when near a pool. The station doesn’t stop at the microphone. It also prints and distributes 20,000 water safety activity books through the Pinellas County Health Department and member agencies of the Hillsborough County Water Safety Team, which includes a broad diversity of civic, community and public health groups. “We feel these books are a valuable asset for informing children and their caregivers about staying safe in and around water,” wrote Kathy Moes of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County in a letter to the station. “Thank you so much for producing this valuable community resource.”
WFLA-TV Produces and Airs Six PSAs for United Way (WFLA-TV)
In support of the United Way, WFLA-TV in Tampa, Fla., volunteered its talent and time to produce a series of six public service announcements. The station rounded up community leaders and local celebrities to inspire viewers to “Live United.” The mayors of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia are among those featured in the catches sight of. To augment the reach of the campaign, the station left its logos and branding off the announcements and distributed them to television stations across the Bay. All six announcements are receiving airtime on WFLA. “Simply put, without WFLA’s contribution of creative talent, production and airtime the United Way of Tampa Bay would have not been able to reach our community stakeholders with any degree of influence or frequency,” said Douglas Arnold, vice president of marketing and communications for United Way of Tampa Bay. “WFLA demonstrates the highest level of community service to the people of Tampa Bay and resumes to provide United Way support that truly makes a difference in our regional operations.”
WPBF-TV Airs Lifeline Hurricane Information (WPBF-TV)
Situated in the path of Atlantic hurricanes and located in the state hit by the most tornadoes each year, WPBF-TV in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., has a commitment to preparing and protecting the people in its community when severe weather menaces. The station produces an annual hurricane special and devotes a special series to protecting families, pets and property in the face of a storm during newscasts. A “Hurricane Homepage,” which includes an interactive radar map to track weather activity and a Hurricane and Storm Survival Guide, makes up a comprehensive section of the station Web site. Viewers are invited to meet the WPBF Weather Very first meteorologists in person to discuss the latest in hurricane protection and awareness at three major hurricane expos each year. In addition, the Weather Very first team goes into the classroom and in front of groups to talk about severe weather and how to stay safe via the year.
WJXT-TV’s “Take It to Heart” Campaign Highlights Heart Disease for Women (WJXT-TV)
WJXT-TV in Jacksonville, Fla., partnered with the Baker-Gilmour Cardiovascular Institute to help alert its female viewers about the threat of heart disease, which kills more American women than all cancers combined. Since the “Take It to Heart” campaign began in 2003, free screening events have been a cornerstone in the program’s outreach efforts to the community. The two thousand seven event provided cholesterol and blood glucose testing as well as blood pressure measurements to more than 1,700 people. WJXT aired live coverage across the day, and the mayor of Jacksonville proclaimed February seven as “Take It to Heart Day.” News stories and public service announcements support the campaign, as well as billboard messages. Businesses are invited to bring “Take It to Heart” to their employees by distributing risk awareness sheets and other materials developed for the campaign. To date, twenty businesses have participated. The program has been recognized with several awards, including a state award from the American Heart Association and a Wellness Council Award for workplace health. In 2008, the screening event grew to include three local hospitals in three counties within the station’s broadcast area.
WMXJ-FM Fundraiser Nets $30,000 for Families of Officers (WMXJ-FM)
When two police officers lost their lives in the line of duty, WMXJ-FM in Miami, Fla. organized a benefit concert to support the families left behind. The “Cop Rock two thousand seven Friday Night H.O.P. (Help Our Police)” event starred Chuck Negron and the Classic Rock All Starlets at an outdoor venue. In addition to raising awareness of the violence that law enforcement faces to keep neighborhoods safe, ticket sales and donations brought in $30,000, which was spilt inbetween the Miami-Dade County chapter of The Police Officer’s Assistant Trust and the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County. During the two weeks prior to the event, the station aired two interviews with the bands during its morning demonstrate, more than one hundred public service announcements and pre-recorded promotional catches sight of and more than one hundred live mentions. Station talent emceed the concert and the station donated three hundred thirty six staff hours in total to make “Cop Rock” a success. A five-hour live broadcast of the concert permitted listeners via the community to partake.
WQYK-AM/FM Raises $327,000 for St. Jude (WQYK-AM/FM)
Raising awareness and funds to help children fight cancer and other catastrophic illnesses comes effortless to WQYK-AM/FM in Tampa, Fla. The stations held their annual “St. Jude Kids Radiothon,” a two-day event that included live broadcasts, music and on-air personalities discussing how even petite donations add up to make a big difference in the lives of those affected by pediatric cancer. This year, the station’s efforts raised $327,000. The money helps provide medical treatment to children who come to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital from the instant area, as well as nationally. The stations’ 19-year total for the radiothon tops $Five.Five million. Operations Manager Mike Culotta says the effort is a success because “everybody at the station works together as a team.” The radiothon is part of the thousands of minutes WQYK provides to local charities, community projects and awareness campaigns each year.
WSUN-FM Releases “Green Room CD Project” to Support Environment – (WSUN-FM)
WSUN-FM in St. Petersburg, Fla., uses its “Green Room” to record live spectacles of major and local artists. These in-studio spectacles are released in an annual 97X Green Room CD, with all net proceeds going to an environmentally minded charity, most recently the Nature Conservancy, which has protected 1.Two million acres of natural grounds in Florida and goes up the Florida Reef Resilience Program. The “Green Room CD Project” raises critical awareness of the benefiting organizations. Promotions for the most recently released volume as well as CD inserts include information on the Nature Conservancy and steer listeners on how to get involved. More than 15,000 copies have been sold to date, and 97X Green Room volumes have consistently been the number one selling rock disc in Tampa during the very first week of sales. In a related effort, WSUN is working with the Ocean Conservancy to recruit volunteers for the organization’s annual coastal clean up. A Memorial Day benefit concert organized by WSUN raised $6,000 for the Ocean Conservancy, doubling its budget for this year’s clean up; recyclables that were placed in bins set up at the concert are being converted into material that will be used to make sweaters for children. “I’m a native Floridian. The environment is what we live for,” said WSUN on-air personality Shark. “As a radio station, we can get people involved with conservancy and raise awareness about organizations doing good in the area.”
Local Broadcasters Host Citizenship Campaign (WLTV-TV, WAMR-FM, WRTO-FM, WAQI-AM and WQBA-AM/)
A year-long, comprehensive campaign launched by WLTV-TV in Miami, Fla., together with radio stations WAMR-FM, WRTO-FM, WAQI-AM and WQBA-AM, was pivotal in getting citizenship information to the 600,000 permanent legal residents in the area. The “Ya es Hora ЎCiudadnia!” (It’s Time Citizenship Campaign) promoted nationalization through public service announcements, special editions of public affairs programming, call-in phone banks that permitted residents to ask questions and extensive information on the stations’ Web sites. The stations also promoted citizenship centers and hosted citizenship application events across South Florida. In addition, the radio stations broadcast a series of interviews with legal experts and top immigration lawyers, which permitted listeners to call-in questions. The campaign was timed to encourage legal residents to apply for citizenship before a planned sixty nine percent naturalization fee hike was implemented by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. “It is critical that permanent legal residents in South Florida have all the relevant facts to make timely citizenship decisions,” said Enrique Teutelo, an anchor for WLTV who regularly covers the real-life stories of immigrants.
WKMG-TV Launch Get Out the Vote Campaign (WKMG-TV)
To make viewers aware of their option to vote by absentee ballot, WKMG-TV in Orlando, Fla., teamed with the League of Women Voters for a “Stay at Home and Be Counted” campaign. In the month leading up to Florida’s presidential primary, the station broadcast public service announcements (PSAs) hundreds of times demonstrating the ease of voting by mail. The four station-produced announcements featured WKMG’s top anchors voting on their schedule and in the privacy of their own homes. Viewers were directed to the League’s Web site for details on ordering absentee ballots within the seven counties covered in the station’s viewing area. In production and airtime, WKMG donated $75,000 worth of services to the campaign. Absentee ballot requests were up three hundred percent when compared to the two thousand four primary elections, and the League credits the campaign with the results; similar efforts are being recommended across the country. To proceed this voter momentum into the general election, WKMG has partnered with the League for a “Central Florida Movie Challenge.” High school students, film and college students, and the community at large have been asked to create 30-second PSAs about how their votes count. For each of the three categories, the top movies will be posted on the station’s Web sites so viewers can vote for their favorites. The winning catches sight of will be played for a two-week rotation to inspire those in the Sunshine State to get out and vote.
WYCT-FM Hand-delivers 14,000 “Letters from Home” to Troops (WYCT-FM)
Part of a close-knit military town, WYCT-FM in Pensacola, Fla., adopted local Naval Reserve Battalion eleven before it shipped out to Kuwait. Days before the sailors’ departure, a squad from the station went out to the base and recorded live interviews with these plucky studs and women. On the day of their departure, the station gave the sailors a send off and provided box lunches. During Thanksgiving, WYCT’s morning display host Dana Cervantes went to visit the battalion overseas and hand-delivered 14,000 “Letters from Home.” The station also linked up with WEAR-TV to air private messages from the sailors via satellite for family members back in the United States. WYCT’s efforts will proceed until the battalion arrives back home securely. The station has made a commitment to make sure these boys and women know how much their community and country care. WYCT was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.
WQBA-AM Organizes Town Hall Meeting (WQBA-AM)
For the listeners of WQBA-AM in Coral Gables, Fla., budget cuts in higher education was a top issue last year, so the station took act and organized a town hall meeting. The community wished to discuss the effects the cuts would have on the quality and availability of community colleges in South Florida. The forum suggested students and educators the chance to address elected officials and college presidents about how the loss in funding would influence the quality of available education. WQBA’s Oscar Haza and Bernadette Pardo moderated the event. The community was invited to join through promotional announcements via the week prior. Live cut-ins during the meeting broadened the reach of the discussion. Station staff contributed seventy five hours to the event. WQBA organizes regular town hall meetings as a venue for area residents to discuss issues facing their communities and neighborhoods.
WXKB-FM Fort Myers Awarded for Commitment to Community (WXKB-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting-owned WXKB-FM Fort Myers’ morning showcase, “Big Mama & The Wild Bund” were recently awarded the key to the City of Naples from Mayor John Sorey for the team’s commitment to the local community. The proclamation mentioned WXFB-FM’s efforts to raise money for the American Cancer Society and the local Little League and to collect supplies for area schools and clothes for children in the Manhandle Council Treatment Center.
WTLV-TV and WJXX-TV “Pal Check” Program Concentrates on Breast Cancer Awareness (WTLV-TV, WJXX-TV)
“Pal Check,” a program developed by WTLV-TV and WJXX-TV in Jacksonville, Fla., in partnership with Baptist Medical Center, is helping women find breast cancer early, when it is easiest to treat. Every 12th day of the month, the stations run stories during the morning, early evening and late-night newscasts, reminding women to perform breast self-exams and encouraging them find a mate who will remind them as well. To highlight the importance of the program, the stations run a monthly feature story about a person who credits finding her breast cancer to “Pal Check.” To date, two hundred eighty five local women and studs have contacted the station to say “Acquaintance Check” saved their lives. The program was implemented by Jeannie Blaylock, an award-winning anchor whose enthusiasm and dedication to the mission of educating women on the value of early detection has remained one of the program’s greatest strengths since its inception sixteen years ago. Blaylock resumes to speak to groups around the community about the importance of breast self-exams. More than two million free “Acquaintance Check” kits have been distributed to women via the globe, and the program has been duplicated in more than fifty U.S. cities.
For more examples of how Florida’s local radio and TV broadcasters are serving every local community, please contact the Florida Association of Broadcasters .
Broadcast Public Service
Florida’s Broadcasters
Tampa Radio Believes in ‘BNice’ (Beasley Tampa)
Beasley Media Group’s WPBB-FM Tampa supports listeners through the “#bNice” campaign. Morning showcase hosts Chadd & Kristi recently gathered hundreds of dollars worth of supplies for a local domestic violence shelter after learning that they were in need. They also recently treated a little chick, Alidy, who had tragically lost her father, to an amazing Disney-filled day. In May, Chadd & Kristi delivered treats to local firefighters during one of the worst fire seasons in memory.
Univision Sparks “M.A.G.I.C.” Partnership with Miami Dade College (Univision Communications Inc)
Univision Communications Inc. (UCI) established the Univision MAGIC Scholarship Fund with a $100,000 donation to the Miami Dade College (MDC). The scholarship supports a fellowship and internship program for students presently attending MDC’s Miami Animation & Gaming International Elaborate (MAGIC), the region’s premier animation and gaming educational facility. MAGIC program at MDC.
WTBN-AM Tampa Talks Race (WTBN-AM)
Salem Media Group’s WTBN-AM Tampa aired live interviews and discussions on race relations on February sixteen in partnership with Tyndale House Publishers and NFL taut end Benjamin Watson. Watson’s book, Under Our Skin, inspired the event. Personality Bill Bunkley hosted live interviews with the six panelists, including Watson, each of whom suggest unique perspectives. Thousands of listeners engaged in the conversation. The main forum, moderated by ESPN’s Sage Steele, was simulcast nationwide and can still be accessed at UnderOUrSkinForum.com.
Todd Ulrich of WFTV is Consumer Champ (WFTV Orlando)
The Orlando Sentinel recently profiled Todd Ulrich, a well-respected, long-time consumer investigative reporter with Cox Media’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando. “Todd Ulrich is a champ for trust,” said Holly Salmons, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Central Florida. “We appreciate his love for transparency and ethics. His tenacity has helped uncountable consumers and has helped to drive a larger divide inbetween the good guys and the bad guys in business.”
Ulrich receives more than two hundred fifty requests per week and reports harshly one hundred stories a year. WFTV contacts the business even if a story doesn’t air and keeps a database of complaints so Ulrich can look for patterns. Many stories involve restaurant inspections and used car sales. As Florida is one of the few states with no used-car sales protection, these stories often affect low-income families.
Other latest stories have included local grocery stores with poor inspection histories, a fresh automobile scam on Facebook and a local man who lost $28,000 in a social media scam. Viewer Kevin Nowak had trouble with his refrigerator from Sears Home Services for more than a year. Within a month of Ulrich’s contact with the corporate office, Nowak received a replacement. Some business people hurl insults at Ulrich when he confronts them. “You’re the thickest chunk of garbage, and I’m sure that will be edited out,” said one. Ulrich does not let this bother him. “I consider myself a consumer advocate along with being a consumer investigator,” he said.
WFLA Reunites Residents With $Two.Three Million (WFLA-TV)
Media General’s NBC affiliate WFLA Tampa consumer reporter Shannon Behnken hosted a six-and-a-half hour phone bank on November fourteen that netted residents more than $Two.Three million of unclaimed cash. The money is often from dormant accounts in financial institutions, insurance and utility companies, securities and trust holdings. “The volume of calls we received was unbelievable, proving once again that News Channel eight is truly ‘On Your Side’,” said WFLA General Manager Andy Alford.
WJXT Investigation Leads to Senate Investigation (WJXT-TV)
Graham Media Group’s WJXT-TV Jacksonville, Fla., aired an investigation into Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shortcomings, resulting in a U.S. Senate committee requiring answers. WJXT exposed deplorable living conditions at some HUD facilities in a series of investigative reports about Jacksonville housing complexes, including Eureka Gardens.
WKMG Anchor Issues Texting and Driving Call to Act (WKMG-TV)
Graham Media Group’s CBS affiliate WKMG-TV Orlando anchor Matt Austin suffered a severe concussion and required ten staples in his head last month after his car was totaled by a driver who was texting. On the eleven p.m. news on October 17, Austin issued a call to activity about texting and driving, in the hopes of inspiring switch to laws that he considers to be lenient. Austin reported that the driver did not receive a ticket because the officer did not see that the other driver was texting.
Simulcasting Permits South Florida Stations to Spread Critical Information (Entercom)
For Entercom Miami/Fort Lauderdale stations, simulcasting was a key component to a successful communication strategy during Hurricane Matthew. “We are dedicating more time to simulcasting,” said Entercom Miami/Fort Lauderdale Director of Programming and Operations Rob Sidney. For example, talk-centered stations loyal programming to weather updates and information. Music stations interspersed local news, weather and traffic with locally-generated content, calls and prep information.
Alpha Media Stays Live and Local During Hurricane Matthew (Alpha Media West Palm Beach)
Alpha Media West Palm Beach stayed live across the course of Hurricane Matthew to provide significant updates and information to its area listeners. In addition to constant weather updates, the stations aired conversations with community leaders and collective critical information, such as locations where listeners could obtain shelter or supplies. Alpha Media West Palm Beach Market Manager Elizabeth Hamma said the station is “a conduit of critical information for our listeners.”
CBS Radio Miami Tracks Storm, Provides Critical Information (CBS Radio Miami)
With the threat of historic Hurricane Matthew barreling toward the Florida Coast, CBS Radio Miami (WKIS-FM, WPOW-FM, WQAM-AM) wasted no time in providing weather updates and critical evacuation information. “On-air and via social we are reminding listeners how to prepare before the storm – such as supply lists, family plan, securing your property/yard, pets and overall safety during and after the storm,” said CBS Radio Miami Vice President of Programming Rob Morris. The station cluster also manned communication lines to gather information from area residents. Additionally, the cluster worked closely with sister station WFOR-TV to ensure updates and information were collective with as many people as possible.
iHeartMedia Miami, WIOD Fucking partner to Provide Continuous Storm Coverage (iHeartMedia Miami, WIOD)
iHeartMedia Miami, iHeartMedia Latino and NewsRadio six hundred ten WIOD provided coverage before, during and after Hurricane Matthew tore through Florida and up the East Coast. WIOD broadcast all related press conferences and added five hours of local programming as the storm headed toward the Florida coast. On October 6, all station employees and other programmers temporarily moved into the WIOD building in order to provide around-the-clock coverage. Additionally, the station updated cracking news alerts every hour in both English and Spanish, and partnered with NBC-owned WTVJ Miami and area meteorologists to provide the most up to date information.
Cox Media Jacksonville Utilizes Social to Keep Listeners Informed (Cox media Group Jacksonville)
Stations in the Cox Media Jacksonville cluster relied on their websites and social media platforms as an effective way to communicate significant Hurricane Matthew updates to area residents. “We’re posting interactive maps to track the storm with layers that showcase local top flood zones and traffic issues,” said Cox Media Group’s Director of Branding and Programming Aaron Schachter. “Everything they could need is on our websites, and we make it effortless to share as a resource to anyone looking for information. This is about using different ways to talk to and engage listeners.”
WPLG Airs Town Hall Meeting On Gun Violence (WPLG-TV)
Berkshire Hathaway’s ABC affiliate WPLG Miami aired an hour-long primetime special about gun violence on September 16. The program is part of its “My Future, My Choice” initiative, which concentrates on youth and gives voice to parents who lost children to gun violence. “We are fully invested in this endeavor, and we want this town hall meeting to also serve as a youth summit where youthful minds can hear, contribute to the dialogue and feel free to react to ideas for solutions,” said WPLG President Bert Medina.
WFLA-TV Helps Tampa Viewers Reclaim $1 Million (WFLA-TV)
Media General’s NBC affiliate WFLA-TV Tampa investigative reporter helps Tampa viewers get $1 million in unclaimed property and money on August 11. Investigative consumer reporter Shannon Behnken hosted a one-day phone bank that helped residents reclaim more than Four,000 accounts totaling over $1,051,000. The phone bank connected viewers to a Florida database of unclaimed money and property from dormant accounts in financial institutions, insurance and utility companies, securities and trust holdings. The property can include items such as observes, jewelry, coins, stamps and cash. “The volume of calls we received was unbelievable proving once again that News Channel eight is truly On Your Side,” said General Manager Andy Alford. Witness movie via TVNewsCheck.
WJXT-TV Holds Numerous Debates (WJXT-TV)
Graham Media’s WJXT-TV Jacksonville held debates for the following races: State Attorney on August 16; 4th Congressional District on August 17; and 5th Congressional District on August Eighteen. The hour-long debates were held in Jacksonville University’s Swisher Theater. The debates aired on WJXT-TV and were livestreamed on the station’s website.
CBS Holds Debate in Florida’s 23rd Congressional District Race (WFOR)
CBS owned-and-operated WFOR Miami held a debate inbetween incumbent Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Tim Canova in the race for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District on August 14. The hour-long debate was broadcast live during the station’s “Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede” program. It will likely be the only race debate before the August thirty election.
Univision Provides Multi-Platform Coverage of Orlando Massacre (Univision Orlando)
Univision News reported from Orlando within hours of the Pulse shooting, providing coverage on television, radio and digital platforms. A special digital report “49 vнctimas del odio” (49 victims of hatred) launched on June 17. The off the hook report “Inside the house of Omar Mateen” was picked up by media organizations in the U.S. and all over the world, including in Italian and Dutch. Univision Puerto Rico aired the hour-and-a-half special “Unidos por Orlando” (United for Orlando) on June 17. Univision’s news magazine display produced “Aqui y Ahora” (Here & Now); “Terror en Orlando” (Terror in Orlando) on June nineteen and “El Omar Que Yo Conoci” (The Omar I Knew) on June 24.
WFTV Investigates Hidden License Plates (WFTV)
Cox Media’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando investigated fresh ways drivers are hiding license plates from traffic cameras. Each year, thousands of dollars in fines are lost to drivers who hide their plates.
WFTV Investigates Attorney General’s Involvement In Crimson Light Ticket (WFTV-TV)
Cox Media Group’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando investigated Attorney general Pam Bondi’s involvement in a local crimson light camera case. A local driver, who is fighting a crimson light camera ticket, said he was shocked when the highest law enforcement official in the state took an interest in his case. But court documents obtained by the station display that, in part, the motivation for Bondi is money. The 9th Circuit has already ruled in previous cases that companies can’t substitute cities and counties. The question: Can drivers use that as a defense to get tickets threw? And, if they can, how much money does the state stand to lose?
WFTV Investigates Area School’s Background Check Process (WFTV-TV)
Cox Media Group’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando investigated area school’s background check process after a high school coach was arrested on a drug charge. The coach failed to disclose his criminal history years ago on his employment application, and was recently accused of running a multistate drug ring. The district didn’t catch the issue until after the coach, Benjamin Jenkins, was permitted on the field and in classrooms after failing to disclose a misdemeanor drug arrest on his two thousand fourteen application, and no background check was performed.
WFTX-TV Investigates Beach Water Quality (WFTX-TV)
E.W. Scripp’s Fox affiliate WFTX-TV Fort Myers, Fla. investigated beach water quality after bacteria and potentially toxic algae began plaguing local waterways. The problem, likely sparked by Lake Okeechobee water releases, is gaining national attention, but the solutions to the problems remain in brief supply.
Television Station Groups Unite to Cover Tragedy (Broadcast Television)
TVSpy reported on television station groups collaborative efforts. Cox Media Group’s CBS affiliate WJAX-TV Jacksonville, ABC affiliate WSB-TV Atlanta, Fox affiliate WFXT Boston, CBS affiliate WHIO Dayton, and its Washington, D.C. bureau sent reporters, photographers and producers to support ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando.
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH Orlando was joined by team members from its Washington, D.C. bureau, ABC affiliate WPBF-TV West Palm Beach, plus NBC affiliates WBAL-TV Baltimore, WXII Winston-Salem, N.C., WYFF-TV Greenville, S.C., and WGAL Lancaster, Pa.
Fox-owned WOFL received support from stations in Tampa, Philadelphia and Chicago during wall-to-wall coverage from six a.m. to 11:40 p.m. on June 12. On June 13, WOFL focused on the police investigation and the effect on the community from five – ten a.m. and in special hour-long newscasts at noon and four p.m.
It does give you pause for what this business is all about, which is providing a service and information to the public,” WOFL Vice President of News Jeff Zeller told Broadcasting & Cable.
Graham Media Group’s (GMC) NBC affiliate WDIV Detroit told TVSpy that all GMG stations made an effort to assist CBS affiliate WKMG Orlando, as the station provided wall-to-wall coverage. “Our hearts go out to the people of Orlando. WKMG is part of the Graham Media family and we all support each other,” said WDIV General Manager Marla Drutz. “I can’t imagine what they and their viewers are going through.”
Radio Provides Extensive Coverage of Unthinkable Terror Attack (Broadcast Radio)
Radio Ink and Inwards Radio provided details on broadcast radio stations’ response to the tragedy. CBS Radio brought personnel from all of its morning shows to help WQMP-FM and WOMX-FM Orlando. As listeners asked how they could help, CBS provided information on where to donate blood.
Westwood One sent two reporters, Alan Scaia and Scott Kimbler, to Orlando on June twelve to cover the massacre. The station group quickly committed to keeping Scaia and Kimbler in Orlando all week to cover the aftermath and President Obama’s planned journey to Orlando on June 16.
iHeartMedia Orlando’s WFLA-FM, WXXL-FM, WJFF-FM and WYGM-AM preempted programming to air extensive news coverage produced by WFLA-FM and fucking partners WOFL-TV and WESH-TV. “The LBGT community is well represented within our on-air talent and so there was poignancy to many of the talent exchanges,” iHeartMedia’s Chris Kampmeier said. He added that radio has a unique capability to “permit and embrace listeners calling in to share their feelings and any direct skill of the situation they may have. They want to feel like they are part of the community and being on the radio and/or hearing those who are helps everyone feel connected and involved.”
“Watching radio doing just that with its audience during such heartbreak these past few days was another reminder of the value of our storied industry and why radio talent matter,” Cumulus and Westwood One Vice President Lori Lewis told All Access. “The Orlando radio market, along with cities across the country, shined in the darkest times.”
“Where radio distinguishes itself and what truly spotlights its niche among all media is/was and will proceed to be, its distinct capability to reach out, dig in and be part ’of’ the community,” said Radio Ink Publisher Deborah Parenti.
Cox Media Group (CMG)’s Orlando stations WPYO-FM, WCFB-FM, WMMO-FM, WWKA-FM and WDBO-FM worked with CMG’s ABC affiliate WFTV to simulcast live coverage and provide reports to stations nationwide. Morning display hosts from all stations gathered at WDBO for an on-air roundtable discussion, permitting listeners to react while the news team gathered and distributed information. CMG Orlando staff members worked around the clock, providing twelve hours of wall-to-wall coverage on June 12.
“We knew that this story would capture the community, the state, and the nation and we dreamed to provide a way for listeners to learn, share, and connect with each other and with our on-air team,” said Operations Manager Drew Anderssen. “[We were] getting very diverse calls, most from worried listeners who want to be able to contribute in some way to the needs of the community. Many are sharing their stories from loved ones and their families/friends.”
“We are an extension of the community and we are here for our listeners to vent, sob and share their feelings,” WQMP-FM and WOMX-FM Program Director Dennis Martinez told Inwards Radio.
Broadcasters Support Orlando Community Following Massacre (Broadcast)
Radio Ink also reported on CBS Radio and Cox Media Group’s efforts in the week following the attack. CBS Radio’s WQMP-FM Orlando hosted a blood drive on June 13, also collecting donations of water, sports drinks and orange juice for blood donors. CBS Radio also worked with the city to plan and promote a candlelight vigil. Stations promoted and provided accomplish live coverage of local vigils across the country.
Cox Media Group’s Orlando stations broadcast and streamed on June thirteen a two-hour roundtable discussion “Orlando Terror Attacks. Our City Reacts,” during which on air hosts discussed the massacre and took calls from listeners. WWKA-FM and WRDQ-TV will host abenefit concert on June twenty one for the City of Orlando’s OneOrlando Fund.
OTA Broadcasting’s MyNetworkTV affiliate KMIR-TV Palm Springs, Calif. invited the public to attend a special live event “Standing United,” held June 17. The Palm Springs mayor, LGBT and Islamic officials, and other local faith and community leaders will participate in the event. “Standing United” will air with no commercial interruptions and stream live on KMIR.com and Facebook LIVE. “We heard the community noisy and clear at Sunday night’s vigil in Palm Springs,” said KMIR News Director David Reese. “They want to come together after this tragedy and KMIR News is committed to doing our part to make that happen.”
Television Networks Provide Wall-to-Wall Coverage (Television Networks)
Broadcasting & Cable provided details on network television coverage of the massacre. The television networks main anchors – CBS’s Scott Pelley, NBC’s Lester Holt and ABC’s David Muir also all flew to Orlando on June twelve to broadcast special evening newscasts. ABC sent six reporters to assist those already in Orlando, with NBC dedicating four reporters to the story. Charlie Rose and Gayle King of “CBS This Morning” also broadcast from Orlando. Coverage in the days that followed included special editions of “Dateline NBC” and ABC’s “20/20” that were loyal to the massacre.
Television Networks Provide Wall-to-Wall Coverage (Television Networks)
Broadcasting & Cable provided details on network television coverage of the massacre. The television networks main anchors – CBS’s Scott Pelley, NBC’s Lester Holt and ABC’s David Muir also all flew to Orlando on June twelve to broadcast special evening newscasts. ABC sent six reporters to assist those already in Orlando, with NBC dedicateing four reporters to the story. Charlie Rose and Gayle King of “CBS This Morning” also broadcast from Orlando. Coverage in the days that followed included special editions of “Dateline NBC” and ABC’s “20/20” that were faithful to the massacre.
WESH-TV Coverage of Orlando Massacre (WESH-TV)
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH-TV Daytona Beach supplemented its wall-to-wall coverage with live violating news coverage with Spanish captioning on its sister station, Estrella TV Orlando during primetime on June 12. This live coverage was distributed to Hearst’s Spanish stations in Sacramento, Tampa, Albuquerque and Monterey.
WFTV Investigates Contractor Accused of Deceiving Consumers (WFTV)
Cox Media Group’s ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando exposed a contractor for deceiving consumers. After viewer Bessie Hudson claimed McMurphy Fencing collected $Two,000 for a fresh fence but did not produce, WFTV found seven other families had the same issue. When reporter Todd Ulrich contacted McMurphy, he promised a total refund for Hudson. It never came. Ulrich found that McMurphy Fences illegally uses a different company’s address in legal documents. Thanks to WFTV, Florida’s Attorney General sued McMurphy for unfair and deceptive trade. The police later charged him with grand theft and fraud.
WHPT-FM Supports Kids With Cancer (WHPT-FM)
Cox Media Group’s WHPT-FM Tampa Bay afternoon host Drew Garabo threw a party on June four for children battling cancer. At the event, he introduced an iPad to twelve of the kids. The party concluded WHPT’s “Apple a Day” program in May. Morning host Mike Calta also helped raise over $13,000 through his showcase. “Children should have to worry about what movie game they want to play, or how to ace a test, not about fighting for their life. I’m hoping that we can help them keep their mind occupied at such a challenging time,” Garabo said.
WPLG Investigates Failed Bullying Policies (WPLG-TV)
Berkshire Hathaway’s ABC Affiliate WPLG-TV Miami aired an investigation by reporter Bob Norman into the Broward County Public School System’s failed bullying policies. WPLG also exposed Dillard High School’s inactivity in addressing the repeated bullying and alarming physical and spoken attacks on students targeted by gangs of classmates.
WPBF Probes Advances in Transportation Technology (WPBF-TV)
Hearst Television’s ABC affiliate WPBF-TV West Palm Beach, Fla. aired “WPBF Investigates: Planes, Trains and Automobiles” on May 12. The report examines cutting-edge technology that is improving the way we operate transportation. Learn more here.
WINK-TV Uncovers Hookup Offenders (WINK-TV)
Fort Meyer’s Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate WINK-TV Ft. Meyers, Fla. conducted an investigation that found at least thirteen offenders who were not following the state law requiring them to register their internet information and social media accounts with their local sheriff’s office. The station’s work led to criminal investigations headed by the county.
WLTV Honors Outstanding Local High School Students (WLTV)
Univision-owned WLTV Miami honored ten local high school seniors with its 19th annual “Orgullo de Nuestra Juventud” (Pride of our Youth) award, introduced at a lunch on May Five. Six students received awards for academic excellence and community service, while the other four were recognized for academic growth. The students received college scholarships and bounty cards to help with expenses.
WFLA Tampa Expands Midday News (WFLA-TV)
Media General’s NBC affiliate WFLA Tampa, will be expanding its local news coverage with a fresh one-hour midday newscast at eleven a.m. beginning on June 13. Meteorologist Leigh Spann will join co-anchors Stacie Schaible and Gene Ramirez.
WFTV Investigates Bacteria in Lagoons (WFTV-TV)
Cox Media Group’s WFTV-TV Orlando aired an investigative story on May one in which reporter Christopher Heath highlighted the fact that scientists from Florida Atlantic University have discovered a fresh link inbetween people’s exposure to a deadly bacteria in Florida lagoons and estuaries known as Vibrio and their consumption or treating of raw and uncooked fish or shellfish.
WJXT Event Provides Free Dental Treatment to Two,900 People (WJXT)
Graham Media Group’s WJXT Jacksonville, Fla. partnered with the Florida Dental Association on a free clinic that provided over Five,000 dental procedures to Two,900 patients on April twenty two – 23. The services, valued at $Two.7 million, included fillings, examinations, extractions, root hallway therapy, children’s care and cleanings. People began to line up two days prior to the event. “The capability of WJXT to get the word out and reach the dentally underserved was absolutely astonishing as witnessed by the tremendous turnout of dental patients on both days,” said Dr. Roger Robinson, an event organizer.
WTVJ Playmates With YMCA to Prevent Drowning (WTVJ-TV)
NBC-owned WTVJ-TV Miami partnered with the YMCA of South Florida on a week-long “Swim Week” series, which aired April 18–22. The series addressed the high rate of drowning for children junior than 14. “We hope that our viewers benefit from the information our series will provide so in the end, no one has to suffer from more drowning tragedies,” said General Manager Larry Olevitch. The series highlights stories of families affected by drowning and YMCA resources available to viewers. The YMCA’s mobile aquatic team travels to local communities via the summer to suggest free swim lessons.
Cox Celebrates Earth Day (Cox Media Group)
CMG Orlando Radio and Cox Events held “Keep Winter Park Beautiful’s Earth Day in the Park” on April Ten. The event included yoga, sustainability projects, tree giveaways and seedling plantings.
WLTV Launches Sunday Public Affairs Showcase (WLTV)
Univision-owned WLTV Miami debuted a fresh Sunday morning public affairs display, “Al Punto Florida,” on April 24. The hour-long program features politicians, newsmakers and celebrities discussing issues that affect the Hispanic community in Central and South Florida. The show’s premiere featured an off the hook interview with former Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio; a segment on the influence of the Hispanic vote in Florida; and analysis of the two thousand sixteen Miami-Dade County mayoral race.
WOFL Now Airs Six Hours of Local News Each Morning (WOFL)
Fox-owned WOFL-TV Orlando expanded its morning weekday local newscast to begin at four a.m., embarking April 25. The station now offers six hours of local news from four to ten a.m. each weekday, bringing the weekly total to fifty three hours.
Cox Media Group Cleans Up Local Waterway (Cox Media Group)
Cox Media Group Orlando hosted the two thousand sixteen team Cox Orlando Sea Cleanup with American Rivers and Keep Seminole Beautiful on March 12. The cleanup was held at Wekiva island in Longwood, Fla. Cox employees picked up almost 1,000 pounds of trash.
WSNN-LD Provides Lifeline Coverage of Sarasota Tornado (WSNN)
Suncoast News Network’s WSNN Sarasota, Fla., provided lifeline coverage of tornados on Jan. Seventeen that killed two and caused widespread property harm. Meteorologists Justin Mosely, Cassie Nall and Joshua Rivas accurately predicted the storm’s development off the Gulf Coast, providing viewers with ample warning so they could prepare. WSNN provided more than nine hours of continuous live coverage. In the following weeks, WSNN covered rebuilding efforts, including Governor Rick Scott’s tour to Siesta Key. “Our viewers depend upon SNN,” said President and General Manager Doug Barker. “They know when the weather turns bad, SNN will be there live and will stay live as long as conditions warrant.” Read comments from appreciative viewers.
WESH Celebrates Black History Month (WESH-TV)
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH Orlando highlighted and honored local black Central Floridians who have made significant contributions to the community.
WJXT Investigates City Waste (WJXT-TV)
Graham Media Group’s WJXT-TV Jacksonville, Fla. aired an investigative report on February eight showcasing that the city was ready to write off millions of dollars of municipal property found to be missing or stolen over the past several years. WJXT analyzed a list of hundreds of missing or stolen city equipment from June two thousand fourteen to July 1, two thousand fifteen that included courthouse movie systems, ice machines, breathalyzers, and even bullet proof shields. The purchase prices of the items on the list totaled $1.Two million. One week after the report aired, fresh legislation was introduced to the council authorizing the director of finance to delete all unaccountable items from their books from two thousand ten to 2016.
WESH-TV Investigates Medicine Problems (WESH-TV)
Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH-TV Daytona Beach, Fla. conducted an 11-month investigation into a rule intended to curb drug manhandle in Florida that prevented dying patients from getting ache medication their doctors had lawfully prescribed. The investigation compelled switch at pharmacies and in Florida’s capitol.
Radio Hosts Participates in Baby Basics Walking Challenge (WXKB-FM)
On-air personality Joe Winner of Beasley’s WXKB-FM Cape Coral, Fla. participated in the 7th Annual Baby Basics Walking Challenge, which raises money to buy diapers for babies in low-income families whose parents are working but not receiving federal or state assistance. These event raised enough to purchase 120,000 diapers.
WJXT Uncovers Unsafe Living Conditions (WJXT)
Graham Media possessed WJXT Jacksonville exposed unsafe conditions at the Eureka Gardens Apartments, including crumbling staircases, mold and gas leasks. WJXT brought attention to residents’ frustration, which they voiced when the complicated passed a Department of Housing and Urban Development inspection. Eureka Gardens’ proprietor subsequently announced plans for major switches.
Telemundo Invests in Local Initiatives (Telemundo)
The Miami Herald recently highlighted Telemundo Station Group’s local initiatives, including the addition of nine “Telemundo Responde” investigative units. The unit has recovered more than $Three.Five million for consumers by investigating local businesses such as auto mechanics and tax agencies. The annual telethon for the Miami-based Liga Contra el Cбncer (League Against Cancer) generates most of the organization’s yearly budget. “We want to be the station that cracks news and covers weather for our audience,” said Telemundo Station Group President Manuel Martinez. “We have a specific relationship with our audience, because if you’re not one hundred percent fluent in English, you come to us every day for your entertainment and information.
WTSP Tampa Investigates Political Influence (WTSP)
Tegna’s CBS affiliate WTSP St. Petersburg, Fla. aired “The Gatekeeper,” a newscast and 6,000-word online story with links to public records and online-only movies based on reporter Noah Pransky’s year-long investigation into private public relations consultant Beth Leytham. Pransky found evidence that Leytham may be skirting lobbying registration laws. Her clients include Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan. After the story broke, a city council member called for a review of Tampa’s lobbying rules. The county administrator asked the sheriff to review the award of a $1.35 million contract to one of Leytham’s clients, who used her as a subcontractor.
WWSB-TV Launches seven p.m. Newscast (WWSB-TV)
WKMG-TV Adds four p.m. Newscast (WKMG-TV)
Graham Media Group’s CBS affiliate WKMG-TV Orlando will suggest a four p.m. newscast embarking Sept. 7. The station announced the extra newscast on social media and during regular newscasts. It will feature anchors Julie Broughton, Matt Austin, Lisa Bell and Ginger Gadsden and Chief Meteorologist Tom Sorrells.
Cox Orlando Hosts Discussion With Police (Cox Orlando)
Cox Media Group Orlando hosted “Unity in the Community: Law Enforcement in Central Florida” on June Ten. WDBO-FM Orlando’s Joe Kelley and WCFB-FM Daytona Beach’s Monica May moderated the panel, which aired and streamed live on both stations. Experts discussed local law enforcement’s role in the community and answered listeners’ questions. Panelists included Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings, Orlando Police Chief John Mina, Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith, former Chief Judge Belvin Perry and Executive Director of Crimeline Barb Bergin.
WSCV-TV Nets $Four Million for Cancer Research (WSCV-TV)
NBC’s Telemundo affiliate WSCV-TV Miami raised $Four.1 million during a telethon for La Liga Contra el Cancer, bringing the event’s 17-year total to $60 million. La Liga Contra el Cancer provides free medical screenings and treatments. “As we stir into our 31st year, we remain committed to our audience as providers of journalistic excellence in our newscasts, as a preferred provider of entertainment and as a major supporter of efforts on behalf of our community,” WSCV President Jorge Carballo told TVNewsCheck.
WDBO-FM Orlando Hosts Discuss Domestic Violence (WDBO-FM)
Cox Media Group’s WDBO-FM Orlando aired a one-hour special, Awareness & Act: Domestic Violence on May 6. The program discussed how every minute, twenty people are victims of intimate fucking partner violence and about twenty five percent of all women will practice domestic violence at some point. The panel included Belvin Perry, Former Chief Judge, who presided over the Casey Anthony murder trial; Jeff Ashton, Florida’s Ninth Judicial Circuit State Attorney and prosecution team member in the Casey Anthony trial; and several experts from the law and social services fields. The program aired live on WDBO-FM and streamed online on Cox Media Group’s five Orlando radio stations: WDBO-FM, WWKA-FM, WCFB-FM, WMMO-FM and WPYO-FM.
Jacksonville Debate Airs on Radio, TV (Jacksonville Radio, TV Broadcasters)
Bayshore Television’s CBS affiliate WJAX-TV Jacksonville hosted a debate on May six inbetween candidates for Jacksonville mayor, incumbent Alvin Brown and Republican challenger Lenny Curry. Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM Jacksonville also broadcast the event.
Florida Association of Broadcasters Makes Presidential Forum Available (Florida Association of Broadcasters)
The Florida Association of Broadcasters provided a satellite uplink for local and national stations to cover the Economic Summit on June 2nd. During the event, Florida Governor Rick Scott hosted prospective two thousand sixteen Republican Presidential candidates, who each had thirty minutes to discuss their views on jobs and economic growth. Morning speakers included Scott, Florida Senator Marco Rubio, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, former Texas Governor Rick Perry and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker. The afternoon program featured Fresh Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and former Florida Governor Jeb Pubic hair. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Kentucky Senator Rand Paul declined the invitation.
WESH-TV Meteorologists Tony Mainolfi and Amy Sweezey Bolster ’Read to Me’ Campaign (WESH-TV)
Hearst Television possessed NBC Affiliate WESH-TV Daytona Beach, Fla. meteorologists Tony Mainolfi and Amy Sweezey worked to promote national “Read to Me” literacy campaign, which urges adults to read to children. In addition, the two meteorologists encouraged local actors to volunteer for BookPALS, or Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools.
WLLD Hosts Fucktoy Drive for Nonprofit, The Children’s Home (WLLD)
Beasley Broadcast Group’s WLLD-FM Tampa raised $12,254 and three hundred five bicycles in its third annual fucktoy drive benefiting The Children’s Home. The Children’s Home serves manhandled and abandoned children and their families through therapeutic and traditional foster homes, in addition to supporting relative care-givers. In just three years Orlando’s Fucktoy Drive has raised over $22,000 in bounty card and cash donations, 1,100 bicycles and thousands of fucktoys.
Univision Hosts Its Fourth Annual Education Week (Univision)
Univision’s Education Week 2014, held Oct. Four – eleven across its one hundred twenty eight radio and TV stations and its multimedia platforms, included on-air segments; phone banks that answered more than Three,000 questions from viewers; and online college fairs. More than Two,000 viewers attended a free education fair in San Antonio on Oct. Four, which included exhibits and sessions on scholarships, financial aid, career planning and bilingual education. WLTV Miami’s Education Week events included “Camino a la Universidad,” a workshop that educated 11th grade students and their parents on the steps needed for a college education; its 13th annual “Club de Libros 23,” a Parent Academy with sessions on enrollment, financial aid and scholarships; and phone banks for questions on education.
Florida Gubernatorial Candidate Debates Air on Local Stations (Local Broadcasters)
Charlie Crist and Rick Scott, candidates for Florida governor, met in three debates: Oct. Ten on Spanish-language Telemundo; Oct. Fifteen on CBS owned-and-operated WFOR-TV Miami; and Oct. Twenty one on Graham Media Group owned-and-operated WJXT Jacksonville. Univision’s owned-and-operated WLTV-TV Miami and WAQI-AM Miami hosted a debate on Oct. Twenty one inbetween Carlos Curbelo and Joe Garcia, candidates for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
WFOR-TV Miami Commits Air Time for Political Debates (WFOR-TV)
CBS Television owned-and-operated stations produced and aired debates across the country:
- KTXA Dallas, Oct. Five, Governor [Greg Abbott, Wendy Davis]; Lt. Governor [Dan Patrick, Leticia Van de Putte]
WFTS Tampa Reunites Missing Boy With Family (WFTS)
Scripps’ ABC affiliate WFTS Tampa reunited a missing boy with his family. Paul Ezekiel Fagan, who has a mild learning disability, was last seen playing in his front yard on September 25. WFTS anchor Cameron Polom witnessed a child fitting his description after a press conference on his disappearance the next day. After confirming the child was Paul, Polom brought him home. Click here to observe Paul’s emotional reunion with his grandmother and father.
NFL Domestic Violence Issues Spark Initiatives at WFTS Tampa (WFTS)
Broadcasters ramping up domestic violence initiatives through special news reports, telethons and tributes to victims following latest NFL incidents include E. W. Scripps’ WEWS Cleveland, WFTS Tampa and Raycom’s Honolulu stations, CBS affiliate KGMB and NBC affiliate KHNL, according to Broadcasting & Cable. In addition, Capitol Broadcasting launched the “eNOughNC” campaign, with WRAL-TV and WRAZ-TV Raleigh, NC producing two PSAs that debuted during an NFL game featuring Ray Rice’s former team, the Ravens, and ran on WILM Wilmington and Capitol radio stations. “eNOughNC” provides education on how to break the domestic violence cycle.
WSCV Miami Hosts Spanish-Language Gubernatorial Debates in Several States (WSCV)
Telemundo is hosting a series of Spanish-language debates in September and October leading up to gubernatorial elections in several states. “We believe it is fundamentally significant for our Spanish-language viewers and the Hispanic communities we serve across the country to be actively involved in the discussions that are taking place this election season,” said Telemundo Station Group President Manuel Martinez. The debate series and other initiatives on Telemundo-owned stations include:
- California, September Four: KVEA Burbank, PBS affiliate KQED San Francisco and the Los Angeles Times hosted a debate inbetween incumbent Gov. Jerry Brown and challenger Neel Kashkari, which also aired on KNSO Fresno, KSTS San Jose and KUNA Palm Springs.
WXKB-FM Distributes Thousands of Back-to-School Items (WXKB-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting’s WXKB-FM Estero, Fla., recently partnered with Lipman Produce to sponsor a backpack giveaway event. WXKB-FM collected more than 1,200 backpacks, three hundred bike helmets, Two,000 pounds of food, fifty free haircuts and much more, all of which were donated to students across Southwestern Florida.
Univision Radio Miami Supports Local Children’s Shelter (Univision Radio Miami)
For two weeks during July, the employees of Univision Radio’s Miami stations collected almost $500 and several boxes of food and non-perishable items for the children of His House Children’s Home located in Miramar, Fl. His House Children’s Home is a private, nonprofit, faith-based group that provides residential care for manhandled, abandoned and neglected children in a home-like setting. The radio stations assisted the organization, which is permanently receiving and supporting children in need of help.
President Calls on Broadcasters to Spread Climate Message (Broadcaters)
President Barack Obama recently invited eight weather broadcasters to the White House to help raise awareness of the National Climate Assessment, a fresh report that explains how the heating climate is causing dramatic switches across the United States. The Fresh York Times reports, “Polls demonstrate that local television weathercasters are among the most trusted media figures.” Broadcasters who were invited included NBC’s Al Roker, and meteorologists from Gannett Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate WLTX-TV Columbia, S.C., and NBC-owned WTVJ-TV Miami.
WLTV-TV Honors Outstanding Miami High School Students (WLTV-TV)
Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami honored ten outstanding South Florida high school students with its 17th annual Papa John’s Pizza Orgullo de Nuestra Juventud (Pride of our Youth) Awards. The awards luncheon was hosted by WLTV-TV news anchor Alina Mayo Azze. Six of the ten students were recognized for academic excellence and outstanding commitment to civic duty. The four other students were recognized with the Academic Achievement Award for demonstrating academic growth and overcoming setbacks in their private life. The students were awarded scholarships by Papa John’s Pizza, and Miami-Dade College suggested each student free tuition if they chose to pursue their university education there.
WFOR-TV to Hold Florida Gubernatorial Debate on Oct. Fifteen (WFOR-TV)
CBS Television’s WFOR-TV Miami announced it will produce and broadcast a statewide televised debate for the major candidates running in the Florida governor’s race later this fall. The hour-long debate is slated to air from seven a.m. to eight p.m. on October 15, and will be held at Broward College’s Davie Campus. The debate will be broadcast on ten other stations across the state, including Hearst’s ABC affiliate WPBF-TV.
WLTV-TV Promotes Univision Education Campaign (WLTV-TV)
Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami has visited more than eighteen schools and participated at several events as part of the Pequeсos y Valiosos (Youthful and Valuable) campaign, which raises awareness among parents about the importance of actively interacting with their children every day, from birth through the pre-school years, in order to help them learn. During these school visits, education reporter Maria Fernanda Lopez has read to the children and facilitated workshops for their parents. The campaign invites parents and families to make a pledge to engage with their kids for at least fifteen minutes each day, without interruption.
WPOW-FM Gives Bullied Boy the Royal Treatment (WPOW-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting Group’s WPOW-FM Miami recently held an anti-bullying rally for a local nine-year-old boy after learning of his fights at school. WPOW-FM staff reached out to local sponsors to give the student, Osmany Franco, the royal treatment on his way into school. He drove in a convertible to Redland Elementary School and was joined by WPOW-FM’s morning demonstrate host “Big Al,” the Miami Marlins team van, and a police escort. Osmany, who suffers from developmental issues, will also receive VIP seats to a future Miami Fever game, and will participate in the halftime free throw contest.
WEAR-TV to Collect Money for Victims of Latest Storms (WEAR-TV)
Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WEAR-TV Pensacola, Fla., is teaming up with the United Way and several local radio playmates to raise money to help the victims of the latest storms. WEAR-TV’s staff will broadcast live from two local malls from five a.m. – seven p.m. on May nine to collect monetary donations from viewers and listeners. All the proceeds will be donated to the United Way.
WTSP-TV to Host Florida Gubernatorial Debate on Oct. Seven (WTSP-TV)
Gannett’s CBS affiliate WTSP-TV St. Petersburg, Fla., announced it has partnered with the Tampa Bay Times and the University of South Florida (USF) to present a statewide, televised gubernatorial debate on October 7. The debate will broadcast live on CBS stations across Florida, and Gannett’s NBC affiliate WTLV-TV in Jacksonville. The event will be held in the USF Music Concert Hall before an audience of five hundred guests.
WPTV-TV Launches Campaign to Raise Autism Awareness (WPTV-TV)
Scripps’s NBC affiliate WPTV-TV Palm Beach, Fla., launched an Influence five campaign, to raise awareness of autism. WPTV-TV assembled an advisory panel of parents, educators and autism advocates to guide the station’s on-air and online coverage, which airs every Wednesday in a special segment during the six pm newscast and on weekend mornings. The ongoing campaign will also include four phone banks for viewers to call in and ask questions, four primetime specials and a special autism website. Click here to witness movies from the Influence five campaign.
WLTV-TV Miami-Fort Lauderdale (WLTV-TV)
As part of Univision Educaciуn, Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami-Fort Lauderdale launched its fourth year of “Camino a la Universidad” (Road to the University), a series of workshops that pairs exceptional students with professional adults who assist students and motivate them to reach their private, educational and professional goals. The program concentrates on those students who have the desire and abilities to succeed, but whom also need extra support to reach their potential. The informational sessions feature inspirational speakers that will provide college and career planning advice to help the students across their college application process.
WIIS-FM Recognizes Key West Nonprofits and Volunteers with Weekly Awards (WIIS-FM)
Independently-owned WIIS-FM Key West, Fla., has partnered with the local Community Foundation of the Florida Keys to launch the “Nonprofit and Volunteer of the Week Awards.” Each week the Foundation selects a worthy local nonprofit and an outstanding volunteer, and WIIS-FM mentions that person and the organization on air numerous times across the week. The winners get on-air recognition, a framed certificate and a bounty certificate to a local restaurant.
WFTS Wins Service to Community Award for Television (WFTS)
Addressing head-on a significant problem in the Tampa Bay area specifically and in the country as a entire, WFTS launched a six week Taking Activity Against Domestic Violence campaign aimed at heightening awareness, educating viewers and inspiring victims of manhandle through the stories of survivors. The campaign featured weekly news stories, PSAs, in-studio interviews with local advocates and a one hour commercial-free primetime special that helped raise approximately $230,000. Included in every element of the campaign, the statewide Domestic Violence Hotline witnessed a seventy seven percent increase in calls during the six weeks alone. Not stopping there, WFTS reached out to teenagers with a 16-page special edition on Teenage Dating Manhandle, produced with the Tampa Bay Times Newspaper and Education Program. This edition was distributed to more than 150,000 high school students and made available online. WFTS also put a spotlight on workplace violence, hosting a Domestic Violence in the Workplace Seminar. Amid numerous public appearances for domestic violence community events, the collection of supplies for domestic violence shelters, a dedicated year-round website page with links and resources and a Facebook page, WFTS has created a lifeline for many suffering in the shadow of domestic manhandle. What began out as a campaign to better the community has ended up a campaign that saves lives.
WLTV-TV Miami Celebrates Univision’s Education Week two thousand thirteen (WLTV-TV)
Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami organized many events during Univision’s Education Week two thousand thirteen to inform parents and prepare students for higher education. WLTV-TV held an education town hall moderated by reporter Sandra Peebles to discuss the college application process. The station also kicked off its 12th annual “Club de Libros 23” in which WLTV-TV’s education reporter, Maria Fernandez Lopez, visits schools every week and reads with students.
WFTS-TV Tampa Takes Act to Fight Domestic Violence (WFTS-TV)
Scripps Television’s ABC affiliate WFTS-TV Tampa partnered with the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence on its two thousand thirteen Taking Act Against Domestic Violence Campaign. The six-week campaign featured weekly news stories, PSAs, interviews with local advocates, a free community event and an hour-long, commercial-free, primetime special. All campaign elements displayed the statewide domestic violence hotline phone number.
Univision’s WLTV-TV Makes Strides During National Citizenship Day (WLTV-TV)
To support National Citizenship Day on September 17, Univision’s WLTV-TV Miami partnered with the Florida International University Law Department’s citizenship clinic, Hispanic Unity of Florida, Read2Succeed and Catholic Legal Services to provide guidance on the naturalization process and help with the N-400 application. WLTV-TV hosted local workshops to encourage legal permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship during National Citizenship Week. In addition, WLTV-TV hosted a phone bank, fielding more than Two,000 calls with questions related to citizenship. As a result, more than three hundred applications were processed and extra workshops are being scheduled to assist the rest of the viewers that called into the station.
WSCV-TV Miami Cancer Telethon Raises $Four.Five Million (WSCV-TV)
Peg Broadcasting’s WSCV-TV Miami raised $Four.Five million for the Liga Contra el Cancer (League Against Cancer), which offers free screenings and cancer treatment to low-income patients. “This annual telethon raises the funds . [so] the organization can proceed to provide the medical services and specialized care that will save so many lives in our community,” Jorge Carballo, president-GM, told TVNewsCheck. The telethon was dedicated to the memory of salsa performer Celia Cruz, a major supporter of Liga Contra el Cancer.
WPOW-FM Host Drives 80,000 Pounds of Supplies to Moore (WPOW-FM)
Beasley Broadcast Group’s WPOW-FM Miami collected 80,000 pounds of supplies such as water, non-perishable food, baby supplies, pet supplies, electrical wheelchairs, toiletries, rakes and shovels for tornado victims in Moore, Okla. During three days of live broadcasts, the station encouraged residents to write “messages of hope” on their donated items to add a individual touch. WPOW-FM afternoon host Africa traveled twenty seven hours from Miami to Moore with the two trucks that contained the 80,000 pounds of goods. The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Club provided three hundred retired police officers as an escort on the journey, which WPOW-FM documented on-air and via social media.
WZNS-FM Helps Make Prom a Night to Reminisce (WZNS-FM)
Cumulus Media’s WZNS-FM Fort Walton Beach, Fla., donated prom dresses to one hundred eleven teenagers at seventeen local high schools whose families could not afford to buy prom dresses. Many of the four hundred fifty dresses available to the women, worth more than $22,000, were fresh and still had the original tags. WZNS-FM playmates with a local mall, which provides store space and dressing rooms. A local dry cleaner, which donates its services. For the past nine years, the campaign has served youthfull people from families affected by the Recession, displacement by Hurricane Katrina and depleted savings from medical bills.
WTKS-FM Host Connects Missing Orlando Boy With His Family (WTKS-FM)
Clear Channel-owned WTKS-FM Orlando’s “The Bucket Demonstrate” helped reunite a mentally disabled 13-year-old boy after he wandered away from the residential facility in which he lives. The boy’s stepfather called WTKS-FM and asked for help to get the word out about his missing son. WTKS-FM posted the boy’s picture and information online. Within two hours, the boy was spotted by a listener and reunited with his family.
Beasley’s WXKB-FM Fucking partners With American Cancer Society (WXKB-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting Group’s WXKB-FM Estero, Fla., has partnered with American Cancer Society to promote the Relay for Life Fort Myers Beach and raise money for the Society. WXKB-FM is holding an online auction, and all proceeds will go to the local American Cancer Society. WXKB-FM is also urging listeners to form a Relay for Life Team to fundraise for the Society. The Relay will take place on April 13.
WKMG-TV Orlando, WJXT-TV Jacksonville, WPLG-TV Miami Suggest Free Airtime (WKMG-TV, WJXT-TV, WPLG-TV)
Candidates for the two thousand twelve elections will be eligible for free airtime and free Web-time in the thirty days preceding the general elections. Post-Newsweek stations will suggest free airtime on its television stations in the battleground states of Texas, Florida and Michigan: WDIV-TV Detroit; KPRC-TV Houston; WPLG-TV Miami; WKMG-TV Orlando; WJXT-TV Jacksonville; and KSAT-TV San Antonio. In addition to the presidential race, each state has significant senatorial and congressional races.
“The two thousand twelve elections are of critical importance, both locally and nationally. Our responsibility as news and public affairs leaders is to ensure that candidates and voters have a platform for rigorous public discussion and debate,” said a station representative.
WCKT-FM Raises Over $287,000 for Children’s Hospital in Florida (WCKT-FM)
Clear Channel’s WCKT-FM Ft. Meyers, Fla., raised over $287,000 during their 10th annual “Helping Kids with Cancer” radiothon to benefit Children’s Hospital at Lee Memorial Health System. All proceeds from the event’s record-breaking total went to the Barbara’s Friends fund, which helps pack treatment and educational needs so pediatric oncology patients do not have to travel far for care.
NBC’s WTVJ-TV Miami Broadcast Senatorial Debate (WTVJ-TV)
NBC-owned WTVJ-TV Miami televised a Florida senatorial debate on October 17, featuring incumbent Bill Nelson and Republican challenger Connie Mack. The debate was part of “Decision 2012: Before You Vote” and was produced by the partnership with Leadership Florida and the Florida Press Association. All eleven television markets in Florida broadcast the debate live.
WFLA-TV Aids Sandy Victims (WFLA-TV)
Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Crimson Cross ease efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Crimson Cross donations via newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a seven p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wished to volunteer or donate money to ease efforts.
WHIF-FM Palatka, Florida Holds Candidate Forums (WHIF-FM)
Independently-owned WHIF-FM Palatka, Florida held candidate forums with all the local candidates in the primary and general elections and made the audio available online. The station also hosted discussions to explain various amendments on the ballot.
WESH-TV Orlando Airs Special Political Program in Advance of Election Day (WESH-TV)
Hearst Broadcasting’s WESH-TV Orlando aired a 30-minute daily political program “Commitment 2012: Extra” from Oct. Eight through Election Day. The demonstrate included live conversations and debates with local candidates, election news and campaign developments. The program was an extension of Hearst’s “Commitment 2012,” which offers at least twelve minutes of political news per weekday. “WESH two News has always taken our role gravely when it comes to informing and educating our viewers before they head to the ballot box,” Bob Longo, WESH news director, told Broadcasting & Cable. “This significant election season, we’re providing viewers an even greater chance to learn about the candidates asking for their votes and the issues so significant to our community.”
NBC News and Telemundo Fucking partner on Election Coverage (NBC News)
NBC News will fucking partner with Telemundo to cover the presidential election. “Decision 2012” will include joint monthly polls, coverage of the campaigns and conventions and events focused on the role of the Hispanic vote, estimated at twenty two million eligible voters. The partnership provides Telemundo access to NBC News’ political content and gives NBC News the benefit of Telemundo’s expertise in the Hispanic community. “This parnership will permit Telemundo and NBC News to suggest news in both languages, reaffirming our deep commitment to inform and empower our community,” said Emilio Romano, president of Telemundo Media. NBC News Senior Vice President Alexandra Wallace will oversee the effort.
NBC News Hosts GOP Debate (NBC News)
Four GOP candidates – Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum and Ron Paul – participated in a debate sponsored by NBC News, the Tampa Bay Times, The National Journal and the Florida Council of 100. It was the very first of two debates focused on the Florida GOP primary.
The event was aired live on the NBC television network and was also streamed live on nbcpolitics.com, nationaljournal.com, and tampabay.com. Telemundo’s live broadcast featured simultaneous Spanish-language translation.
WSUA-AM Miami Talks Politics In two thousand twelve (WSUA-AM)
El Dorado Broadcasters Spanish Talk WSUA-AM Miami will embark the fresh year with a greater emphasis on political coverage through a fresh weekly showcase “Caracol Decision 2012”. The showcase will air live every Tuesday from 8-9 p.m. until election night and will be hosted by veteran news journalist Yoly Cuello, who has covered the last four elections for Radio Caracol. The coverage will include off the hook interviews with local, state, and national candidates from both parties, top political experts, and discussions among listeners on topics that are significant to them.
WMOR-TV Offers Demonstrate Tickets to Military Families (WMOR-TV)
Hearst Corporation’s WMOR-TV Tampa and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey donated tickets to military families at MacDill Air Force base in Tampa as part of the station’s annual Hometown Heroes promotion. WMOR’s Hometown Heroes permits deployed military personnel to provide holiday greetings to loved ones in the Tampa Bay area.
Beasley’s WXKB-FM Collects School Supplies for Fort Myers’ Kids (WXKB-FM)
Beasley-owned WXKB-FM Cape Coral, Fla. recently delivered two pallets of school supplies to the Collier County School district to kick off the fresh academic year. The station’s “Big Mama and The Wild Bunch” staff partnered with Pepsi to collect an assortment of supplies including pencils, pens, markers, crayons and notebooks for area students in need. Together WXKB-FM and Pepsi constructed a house made out of soda cans in the parking lot of a local Wal-Mart. The radio squad broadcasted live from inwards the house for four-and-a-half days. In total, the “Big Mama and The Wild Bunch” team collected more than $Ten,000 worth of school supplies. The station also adopted forty three students from the Manhandle Council Treatment Center. Each of the forty three kids received a fresh clothing for their very first day of school and supplies for the academic year.
Radio Stations Encourage Residents to File Gulf Coast Claims (Florida Radio Stations)
Northwest Florida radio broadcasters recently organized a half-hour radio program that updated listeners about the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) filing procedures in the wake of the BP Gulf Coast oil spill, including how to file initial claims and what to do if a claim has been denied. The project was organized by Dave Cobb, general manager of Sunshine Broadcasting. “The BP oil spill hurt the economy of Northwest Florida,” he noted. “Radio stations have come together to promote the importance of filing and [if denied] refilling claims to Ken Feinberg’s GCCF organization.” Many Northwest Florida radio stations also began a 60-day radio advertising campaign that encourages Floridians to file claims. Thus far, radio stations have donated $192,018 in airtime to this initiative.
John Walsh Joins WWNN-AM on the Hunt for Florida’s Most Wished (WWNN-AM o)
Beasley Broadcast Group-owned WWNN-AM Boca Raton, Fla., broadcasts a weekly community-minded radio showcase, “All Points Bulletin with Sheriff Al Lamberti.” During the program the Broward County, Fla., Sheriff speaks with law enforcement experts about local crime trends and issues. To date, the showcase – which debuted February two thousand ten – has been directly responsible for the capture of eight fugitives and has profiled more than seventy extra criminals. Recently, WWNN-AM welcomed “America’s Most Desired” host John Walsh who contributed to the “You’re on Our List” segment of the display, which is dedicated to apprehending South Florida’s most wished criminals.
WPOZ-FM, WMYZ-FM , WHYZ-FM Launch “Ellis and Tyler’s Dash for Health” (WPOZ-FM, WMYZ-FM , WHYZ-FM)
Fresh Year’s resolutions to eat right and work out are always lighter to keep with a little encouragement, which is why WPOZ-FM, WMYZ-FM and WHYZ-FM in Orlando, Fla., embarked “Ellis and Tyler’s Dash for Health.” The stations’ morning demonstrate team, Ellis Feaster and Tyler McKenzie, invited listeners to join an eight-week wellness initiative, with an ultimate purpose of getting both themselves and their fans healthier. Each weekday, local health experts went on the air to give helpful advice about everything from eliminating high-fat foods from the dinner table to finding a balance inbetween family, work and a healthier lifestyle. In addition, weekly emails containing tips and practical recipe ideas were sent to participants, and free “Dash for Health” exercise classes were suggested at area YMCAs. “We feel this is an amazing chance to join with the community to learn how to make healthier lifestyle switches a priority in 2009,” said McKenzie.
WOKV-AM/FM Hob Nob two thousand eleven Provides Access to Jacksonville’s Political (WOKV-AM/FM)
Cox Media Group’s WOKV-AM/FM Jacksonville, Fla., held Hob Nob 2011, an special event for local Floridians to meet and greet almost all of the major candidates running in the area’s spring elections. More than seven hundred people, including leaders from business and government, attended the March ten gathering and cast ballots in a straw poll. Twenty-nine candidates were represented with tables at Hob Nob, and several made appearances with their supporters. WOKV-AM/FM reporters covered the event and gathered special audio with key candidates for Jacksonville mayor and sheriff. Hob Nob two thousand eleven was an excellent chance for Jacksonville residents to learn more about the politicians running for elected office and served as a forum for discussing the key issues affecting area residents.
WPOW-FM Raises $50,000 to Help Family with Funeral for Three Kids (WPOW-FM)
When Lazaro ’’DJ Laz’’ Mendez of WPOW-FM Miami, Fla., heard that a local family was fighting to pay for funeral services after their three children were tragically killed in a car accident, he went to the airwaves. During five hours of broadcast, Mendez brought the community together, raising more than $50,000 for a decent burial. Many listeners called in to share their own stories of loss and remembrance, and others came to the station to give in-person donations, including children who brought in their piggybanks.
WPOZ-FM Hosts Free Health Expo (WPOZ-FM)
WPOZ-FM in Altamonte Springs, Fla., provided expectant moms and parents of youthful children with free health and safety information at its 2nd annual “Little Ears Expo.” The expo featured informational booths covering such topics as CPR, parenting technics, insurance and financial planning, children’s fashions, scrap booking, car-seat demos and more. Attendees also had the chance to learn about preschool options, health, nutrition and behavioral patterns of youthful children. In addition to visiting various booths, expectant mothers in their 2nd and third trimesters received a free live 4-D ultrasound at the expo. Across the day, experts also delivered seminars on pediatric very first aid, what to expect in a baby’s very first year, breast feeding and pool safety.
WLYF-FM Co-Sponsors “Walk for the Animals” (WLYF-FM)
More than Four,000 pet owners and their wagging best friends showcased up on a Saturday morning in February to participate in the local “Walk for the Animals,” a fundraising event cosponsored by WLYF-FM in Miami, Fla., every year. The event raised $195,000 for the Humane Society of Greater Miami in 2007, a forty two percent increase from 2006. Talent from WLYF hosts the walk and live updates air every hour. In the weeks leading up to the fundraiser, the station uses live and recorded announcements to invite its listeners to join the “LITE FM Paws Patrol” team or create their own. The station Web site lists information and acts as a gateway for the registration process. “Thanks to the airing of public service announcements, live mentions and deejay endorsements before the event, we can ensure that more than Three,000 people join our efforts. At the event, WLYF puts on a display and ensures that everyone has a memorable time,” said Emily Marquez-Dulin, the executive director of the Humane Society of Greater Miami. “This event could not be what it is without WLYF.”
WMOR-TV “Pool Patrol” Initiative Addresses the Dangers of Drowning – (WMOR-TV)
Drowning is the number one cause of death for youthful children in Florida. To help reduce that number, WMOR-TV in Tampa Bay, Fla., began its “Pool Patrol” initiative. The station has run hundreds of catches sight of covering four different topics: pool safety and what to do in case of an emergency; swim safety and the benefit of swim classes; securing pool areas with decent fencing and alarms; and the importance of “Water Watchers” supervising all children junior than fourteen when near a pool. The station doesn’t stop at the microphone. It also prints and distributes 20,000 water safety activity books through the Pinellas County Health Department and member agencies of the Hillsborough County Water Safety Team, which includes a broad diversity of civic, community and public health groups. “We feel these books are a valuable asset for informing children and their caregivers about staying safe in and around water,” wrote Kathy Moes of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County in a letter to the station. “Thank you so much for producing this valuable community resource.”
WFLA-TV Produces and Airs Six PSAs for United Way (WFLA-TV)
In support of the United Way, WFLA-TV in Tampa, Fla., volunteered its talent and time to produce a series of six public service announcements. The station rounded up community leaders and local celebrities to inspire viewers to “Live United.” The mayors of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater and Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia are among those featured in the catches sight of. To augment the reach of the campaign, the station left its logos and branding off the announcements and distributed them to television stations across the Bay. All six announcements are receiving airtime on WFLA. “Simply put, without WFLA’s contribution of creative talent, production and airtime the United Way of Tampa Bay would have not been able to reach our community stakeholders with any degree of influence or frequency,” said Douglas Arnold, vice president of marketing and communications for United Way of Tampa Bay. “WFLA demonstrates the highest level of community service to the people of Tampa Bay and resumes to provide United Way support that truly makes a difference in our regional operations.”
WPBF-TV Airs Lifeline Hurricane Information (WPBF-TV)
Situated in the path of Atlantic hurricanes and located in the state hit by the most tornadoes each year, WPBF-TV in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., has a commitment to preparing and protecting the people in its community when severe weather menaces. The station produces an annual hurricane special and devotes a special series to protecting families, pets and property in the face of a storm during newscasts. A “Hurricane Homepage,” which includes an interactive radar map to track weather activity and a Hurricane and Storm Survival Guide, makes up a comprehensive section of the station Web site. Viewers are invited to meet the WPBF Weather Very first meteorologists in person to discuss the latest in hurricane protection and awareness at three major hurricane expos each year. In addition, the Weather Very first team goes into the classroom and in front of groups to talk about severe weather and how to stay safe via the year.
WJXT-TV’s “Take It to Heart” Campaign Highlights Heart Disease for Women (WJXT-TV)
WJXT-TV in Jacksonville, Fla., partnered with the Baker-Gilmour Cardiovascular Institute to help alert its female viewers about the threat of heart disease, which kills more American women than all cancers combined. Since the “Take It to Heart” campaign began in 2003, free screening events have been a cornerstone in the program’s outreach efforts to the community. The two thousand seven event provided cholesterol and blood glucose testing as well as blood pressure measurements to more than 1,700 people. WJXT aired live coverage across the day, and the mayor of Jacksonville proclaimed February seven as “Take It to Heart Day.” News stories and public service announcements support the campaign, as well as billboard messages. Businesses are invited to bring “Take It to Heart” to their employees by distributing risk awareness sheets and other materials developed for the campaign. To date, twenty businesses have participated. The program has been recognized with several awards, including a state award from the American Heart Association and a Wellness Council Award for workplace health. In 2008, the screening event grew to include three local hospitals in three counties within the station’s broadcast area.
WMXJ-FM Fundraiser Nets $30,000 for Families of Officers (WMXJ-FM)
When two police officers lost their lives in the line of duty, WMXJ-FM in Miami, Fla. organized a benefit concert to support the families left behind. The “Cop Rock two thousand seven Friday Night H.O.P. (Help Our Police)” event starred Chuck Negron and the Classic Rock All Starlets at an outdoor venue. In addition to raising awareness of the violence that law enforcement faces to keep neighborhoods safe, ticket sales and donations brought in $30,000, which was spilt inbetween the Miami-Dade County chapter of The Police Officer’s Assistant Trust and the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County. During the two weeks prior to the event, the station aired two interviews with the bands during its morning display, more than one hundred public service announcements and pre-recorded promotional catches sight of and more than one hundred live mentions. Station talent emceed the concert and the station donated three hundred thirty six staff hours in total to make “Cop Rock” a success. A five-hour live broadcast of the concert permitted listeners across the community to partake.
WQYK-AM/FM Raises $327,000 for St. Jude (WQYK-AM/FM)
Raising awareness and funds to help children fight cancer and other catastrophic illnesses comes effortless to WQYK-AM/FM in Tampa, Fla. The stations held their annual “St. Jude Kids Radiothon,” a two-day event that included live broadcasts, music and on-air personalities discussing how even petite donations add up to make a big difference in the lives of those affected by pediatric cancer. This year, the station’s efforts raised $327,000. The money helps provide medical treatment to children who come to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital from the instant area, as well as nationally. The stations’ 19-year total for the radiothon tops $Five.Five million. Operations Manager Mike Culotta says the effort is a success because “everybody at the station works together as a team.” The radiothon is part of the thousands of minutes WQYK provides to local charities, community projects and awareness campaigns each year.
WSUN-FM Releases “Green Room CD Project” to Support Environment – (WSUN-FM)
WSUN-FM in St. Petersburg, Fla., uses its “Green Room” to record live spectacles of major and local artists. These in-studio spectacles are released in an annual 97X Green Room CD, with all net proceeds going to an environmentally minded charity, most recently the Nature Conservancy, which has protected 1.Two million acres of natural grounds in Florida and goes up the Florida Reef Resilience Program. The “Green Room CD Project” raises critical awareness of the benefiting organizations. Promotions for the most recently released volume as well as CD inserts include information on the Nature Conservancy and steer listeners on how to get involved. More than 15,000 copies have been sold to date, and 97X Green Room volumes have consistently been the number one selling rock disc in Tampa during the very first week of sales. In a related effort, WSUN is working with the Ocean Conservancy to recruit volunteers for the organization’s annual coastal clean up. A Memorial Day benefit concert organized by WSUN raised $6,000 for the Ocean Conservancy, doubling its budget for this year’s clean up; recyclables that were placed in bins set up at the concert are being converted into material that will be used to make sweaters for children. “I’m a native Floridian. The environment is what we live for,” said WSUN on-air personality Shark. “As a radio station, we can get people involved with conservancy and raise awareness about organizations doing good in the area.”
Local Broadcasters Host Citizenship Campaign (WLTV-TV, WAMR-FM, WRTO-FM, WAQI-AM and WQBA-AM/)
A year-long, comprehensive campaign launched by WLTV-TV in Miami, Fla., together with radio stations WAMR-FM, WRTO-FM, WAQI-AM and WQBA-AM, was pivotal in getting citizenship information to the 600,000 permanent legal residents in the area. The “Ya es Hora ЎCiudadnia!” (It’s Time Citizenship Campaign) promoted nationalization through public service announcements, special editions of public affairs programming, call-in phone banks that permitted residents to ask questions and extensive information on the stations’ Web sites. The stations also promoted citizenship centers and hosted citizenship application events across South Florida. In addition, the radio stations broadcast a series of interviews with legal experts and top immigration lawyers, which permitted listeners to call-in questions. The campaign was timed to encourage legal residents to apply for citizenship before a planned sixty nine percent naturalization fee hike was implemented by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. “It is critical that permanent legal residents in South Florida have all the relevant facts to make timely citizenship decisions,” said Enrique Teutelo, an anchor for WLTV who regularly covers the real-life stories of immigrants.
WKMG-TV Launch Get Out the Vote Campaign (WKMG-TV)
To make viewers aware of their option to vote by absentee ballot, WKMG-TV in Orlando, Fla., teamed with the League of Women Voters for a “Stay at Home and Be Counted” campaign. In the month leading up to Florida’s presidential primary, the station broadcast public service announcements (PSAs) hundreds of times displaying the ease of voting by mail. The four station-produced announcements featured WKMG’s top anchors voting on their schedule and in the privacy of their own homes. Viewers were directed to the League’s Web site for details on ordering absentee ballots within the seven counties covered in the station’s viewing area. In production and airtime, WKMG donated $75,000 worth of services to the campaign. Absentee ballot requests were up three hundred percent when compared to the two thousand four primary elections, and the League credits the campaign with the results; similar efforts are being recommended across the country. To proceed this voter momentum into the general election, WKMG has partnered with the League for a “Central Florida Movie Challenge.” High school students, film and college students, and the community at large have been asked to create 30-second PSAs about how their votes count. For each of the three categories, the top movies will be posted on the station’s Web sites so viewers can vote for their favorites. The winning catches sight of will be played for a two-week rotation to inspire those in the Sunshine State to get out and vote.
WYCT-FM Hand-delivers 14,000 “Letters from Home” to Troops (WYCT-FM)
Part of a close-knit military town, WYCT-FM in Pensacola, Fla., adopted local Naval Reserve Battalion eleven before it shipped out to Kuwait. Days before the sailors’ departure, a team from the station went out to the base and recorded live interviews with these courageous boys and women. On the day of their departure, the station gave the sailors a send off and provided box lunches. During Thanksgiving, WYCT’s morning demonstrate host Dana Cervantes went to visit the battalion overseas and hand-delivered 14,000 “Letters from Home.” The station also linked up with WEAR-TV to air private messages from the sailors via satellite for family members back in the United States. WYCT’s efforts will proceed until the battalion arrives back home securely. The station has made a commitment to make sure these guys and women know how much their community and country care. WYCT was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.
WQBA-AM Organizes Town Hall Meeting (WQBA-AM)
For the listeners of WQBA-AM in Coral Gables, Fla., budget cuts in higher education was a top issue last year, so the station took act and organized a town hall meeting. The community wished to discuss the effects the cuts would have on the quality and availability of community colleges in South Florida. The forum suggested students and educators the chance to address elected officials and college presidents about how the loss in funding would influence the quality of available education. WQBA’s Oscar Haza and Bernadette Pardo moderated the event. The community was invited to join through promotional announcements across the week prior. Live cut-ins during the meeting broadened the reach of the discussion. Station staff contributed seventy five hours to the event. WQBA organizes regular town hall meetings as a venue for area residents to discuss issues facing their communities and neighborhoods.
WXKB-FM Fort Myers Awarded for Commitment to Community (WXKB-FM)
Beasley Broadcasting-owned WXKB-FM Fort Myers’ morning display, “Big Mama & The Wild Bund” were recently awarded the key to the City of Naples from Mayor John Sorey for the team’s commitment to the local community. The proclamation mentioned WXFB-FM’s efforts to raise money for the American Cancer Society and the local Little League and to collect supplies for area schools and clothes for children in the Manhandle Council Treatment Center.
WTLV-TV and WJXX-TV “Mate Check” Program Concentrates on Breast Cancer Awareness (WTLV-TV, WJXX-TV)
“Pal Check,” a program developed by WTLV-TV and WJXX-TV in Jacksonville, Fla., in partnership with Baptist Medical Center, is helping women find breast cancer early, when it is easiest to treat. Every 12th day of the month, the stations run stories during the morning, early evening and late-night newscasts, reminding women to perform breast self-exams and encouraging them find a acquaintance who will remind them as well. To highlight the importance of the program, the stations run a monthly feature story about a person who credits finding her breast cancer to “Acquaintance Check.” To date, two hundred eighty five local women and fellows have contacted the station to say “Acquaintance Check” saved their lives. The program was implemented by Jeannie Blaylock, an award-winning anchor whose enthusiasm and dedication to the mission of educating women on the value of early detection has remained one of the program’s greatest strengths since its inception sixteen years ago. Blaylock resumes to speak to groups around the community about the importance of breast self-exams. More than two million free “Pal Check” kits have been distributed to women across the globe, and the program has been duplicated in more than fifty U.S. cities.
For more examples of how Florida’s local radio and TV broadcasters are serving every local community, please contact the Florida Association of Broadcasters .