Richmond Radio

Radio Home Graffiti Board Graffiti Board Archives

Richmond Radio Graffiti Board Archives Page 1 (12/22/00 - 1/13/01) Lark, I got into radio because of the show you did with McKee and Beck back in the day. I grew up in this town and had never heard good radio before. Then the Jeffs showed up and really dragged Richmond Va. radio kicking and screaming into the new dawn of entertaining local radio. Before them it was only the music. WGOE etc.. But they introduced the concept of fun, creativity, you'll never know what's going to happen next, fun, fun, interesting, compelling and it all came from a couple of guys down the block. Talented entertainers right here in our town making morning pop art each day. Wow! I wanted to do that. So I got into radio and I'm not quite as creative, quick and funny as McKee or nearly as good in the studio as Beck, but I love the medium. If they ruin the good local stuff and bring in guys who doing it somewhere else and beaming it back here, we all lose. The thrill was having it baked fresh each morning right here. I know McKee can keep serving up good stuff piping hot every AM, but it's the principal: they've killed the good angel. They've taken the heart out of the warmest medium. Damn them. Oh, great to hear you're happy Lark. That makes one of us. Lurker Bob USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 23:46:04 (EST) Hello "Not Until I Stop..." Thank you for asking, I'm very well and quite happy. In fact Sheri Blanks was by the other day and she said she never saw me "look better." What she meant was no stress, and relaxed. I'm having a terrific time catching up on something called a life. I don't miss working in the current environment, but miss what it used to be. I'm glad to be away from the backbiting, and those who are your friends when it's conveninent for them. We won't get into that, as it would give credence to those who don't deserve it. Mmm, a high level sales dog comes to mind on that one, but let's move on. I plan to do some volunteer work with the adult literacy program and perhaps with Children's Hospital. These are two causes I've always wanted to work with, but time in the past did not permit. I'm happy, having great quality time with my husband whom I rarely saw for the past two years and just enjoying things. If the right situation were to come along in a major market, and it was good for at least a year, I'd consider the "commuter marriage thing" again. We handled it well while I was working in NYC and if it's worth it, we'll handle it again. Until then, I'm making the most of my time and savoring every bit of it. Beck has the right idea. He knows he's talented and has a tremendous amount to offer. Life is too short to stress over this sudden inconvenience, but it is the nature of the beast...and what a beast radio has become. I wish everyone well, as I'm sure things will only get better for them. When CC came in and fired me in '92 from XL, I wound up in NYC less than three months later. All in all, it was a blessing, as this latest venture is too. Everyone, keep rockin'! Lark Logan USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 23:16:59 (EST) Really Good Article on WVGO and Richmond Radio... to see the url better here it is again: http://www.richmond.com/output.cfm?ID=3113 .... No Radio Guru USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 22:00:58 (EST) Hey "Stuck in the Past"...I think you hit the nail on the head once or twice, but missed a couple times also...yes there are some people in Richmond who like listening to the same old, same old...what's popular or has been popular...but don't put all the blame on the listeners of Richmond radio...coorporations, i.e. Clear Channel, have been the cuase for the lack of variety and new artists being played on radio airwaves...anyone out there remember the radio station at 106.5 FM before COOL or THE BUZZ...oh yeah, thats right, 106.5 WVGO FM...known for their extensive playlists and new music...but they too were bought out by the big boys, and eventually had their demise at the hands of then 104.7 THE BUZZ...THE BUZZ specialized in alternative rock, but rememeber Mike Hsu, all the local music THE BUZZ collected during its run, he gave it to the radio station at U of R...plus they brought up and coming acts to Richmond...it's not the listeners fault, listeners are at the mercy of the Coorporate Radio Stations and if they don't like it they either can turn it off and listen to nothing or carry all their CD's with them...simply put, Richmond needs LOCALLY owned radio stations with LOCALLY known talent........ok, I'm off my soap box now...but for more on WVGO, check out this online article from richmond.com... http://www.richmond.com/output.cfm?ID=3113 ...and if anyone else has any insight into WVGO or even WBZU, THE BUZZ, please share... No Radio Guru USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 21:46:41 (EST) It's not about the music. It's not even about the people of Richmond or listeners in ANY market. It's about why we got into radio, what we loved about it, and how today's RADIO sucks in comparison. Yesterday's listener is no different than today's listener; They want to hear a song and/or they want to win something. It's apparent that you missed the point. Listen to the veterans... but YOU will never get it.... because YOU were NEVER there.... were you.........? Brian Lee <brianlee@skyaudio.com> Fort Myers, Fl USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 21:34:41 (EST) No Radio Guru, There has been a giant void in Richmond Radio for a long long time. And unfortunately it is due to the people of Richmond. People stuck on tradition not willing to listen to new music. Don't get me wrong, I love classic rock. I have tons of it in my cd library. But that's just it, I OWN ALL THAT STUFF!! I want to listen to the radio for things I don't already have. Now I'll be the first to admit that there is a lot of new bands on the radio now who's music isn't worth the plastic that the CD is made of, but there is a ton of new bands that blow the charts away in other markets. But here it's got to be Skynard or Bad Company or Zepplin. I'm moving next week to Florida. I grew up here in Richmond, but I won't be looking back. Come on people. Even Motorola decided not to build there plants here because the work force in Richmond was way to inadequate. (Translation: Richmond is full of Dumb toothless rednecks)That is who the radio stations are trying to appeal to. Tiered of being stuck in the past USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 21:10:23 (EST) After I left the production director position at B103.7 in 1993 to strike out on my own in voice work and production in my home state of Florida, I have pined away for the legendary capitol city's rich radio heritage.... Q94, B103.7, XL102 and so-on. CC has already started to chomp away at what made these stations heritage.... Let's face it folks, the federal government has dumped toxic waste into our radio oasis, by letting CC and others take 'em all over, and all but remove the signal from the airwaves. Radio, as we know it, is almost finished. For those of us who have lived, worked and played on radio in the days of cart, record and reel... when hitting the post felt orgasmic, and the words, "voice-track" had never been uttered, might as well get the box of cassettes out of the closet, drink a few beers, and remember the days of old. Because, my friends.. The fat lady is taking a breath. I don't talk to you all that much, but I remember you all, miss you, and my heart goes out to all of you. And Lisa, I've always wanted you. Brian Lee <brianlee@skyaudio.com> Fort Myers, Fl USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 21:02:49 (EST) Wow! I never expected THIS level of participation when I started this board. But I'm glad it's happening. I've learned quite a lot about the Richmond market over the past week, just from reading these posts. This is some of the most interesting reading going these days. About those speculations ... I think CC would be crazy to mess with Q and change it to KISS, that station has been going for almost 30 years now (and almost all of that in the top 5), that's a lot to just throw away. XL changing to The Edge, that would probably tick off a *lot* of the loyal listeners they have now (not that getting rid of Jeff Beck and Ric Maybee didn't...). They would be flushing all of the listener's loyalties right down the drain, kinda like what they did at WRVA...ok, maybe it could happen :) If all of that did happen, then it would be cool to see the other movements mentioned here happen. However, Johnboy and Billy at a station called "The Edge"?, I don't think that would happen, I know that JB&B do country and classic rock formats; does classic rock fit a "Edge" station? ("This is Johnboy on The Edge!!" just doesn't sound right to me...) I'm not familiar with what an Edge format is like, but I assume it is similar to what XL is now. -Your humble web master... Robert <radio@rmonet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 19:18:08 (EST) Ok "Not until I stop...", I may have gone a bit too far looking into my crystal ball...I'll give this to you, Classic Rock 96.5 THE PLANET will most likely not sway from its current format...I was just dreaming a little bit...If you haven't notice from my previous postings, I am a supporter of Modern Rock in Richmond, including LOCAL artists like Fighting Gravity, Pat McGee Band, Closure...it's key for them to get airplay in their HOMETOWN...Melissa Ruggieri of the Richmond Times-Dispatch wrote an article a few years ago when 106.5 THE BUZZ was sent to radio heaven...in that article she made two key points I think need to be stated again...The frequency 106.5 FM was a high power frequency for Richmond and a station like THE BUZZ couldn't survive at a high power frequency...but a Modern Rock Station (i.e. like Y101) at a lower frequency was needed in Richmond...Y101 has done a descent job bringing up and coming acts to Richmond...without a station to do that, bands such as Closure are stranded in getting their music out to a bigger audience...so, if THE PLANET stays Classic Rock, fine...but if Y101 is silenced, then once again there will be a void on the Richmond airwaves...........I must say THE PLANET would have one incredible line with Jeff & Jeff, Dick Hungate, Rik Maybee, and Jay Smack........and the same over at B103...Wicker in the Morning, Lisa McKay, Jon Barry, and Sherri Blanks...two killer lineups CC would have a tough time challenging.....................Hope my "what if's" don't cause any stress...just a little bit of my imagination going wild for a few moments.... No Radio Guru USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 19:17:09 (EST) Reading all of this is depressing. When I get together with all of you at the Soden Awards I really miss being in the business, but that's only one night of the year. Seeing what's going on serves to remind me of why I got out. Who'd have guessed that local broadcasting would be going the way of the ribbon mike and vaccuum tubes, but it is. As for the non-compete clause (and I know this will sound like ancient history, and to those of you who weren't around in the 60s and 70s, it IS ancient history), WRVA fired Harry Wood (their 6-10 man, when the station had music) and the next day he landed at WTVR doing AM/FM and TV news. I was on the air when he did the 5PM cast as Harry Wood. At 5:30, he was using the air name Harry Arthur. The lawyers called just that quick and threatened to make it stick. Of course, with Harry's voice, he could have used the name Kermit the Frog. He was one in a million. Doug Riddell <railroaddoug@erols.com> Richmond, Va USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 19:03:31 (EST) Re What If # 2... What have you been smoking and how can I get some? Some of what you say will come true. The Kiss thing, Lisa and Wicker back at B, Jeff and Jeff returning in glory to the Planet... but!!! I don't see the Planet diluting it's niche, i.e., Classic Rock to add and new music. That's what screw XL's pooch. It would be amazing to see Jeff and Jeff followed by Rik, and if they insist, Hungate and then perhaps Jay Smack. Man, what a powerhouse station that would be. All local competing against the alien monolith who burned every bridge in town. This is a small place, and even the listeners are smart enough to know who are the good guys and who are the bad guys. Take heart and remember, the best is yet to come. I also agree with my former co-worker, Beck, in many ways his old pal McKee is in a worse place, having to suffer the indignities of working for scumbags both foreign and domestic ( I mean in the building and out of the building ) But I also worked with McKee and he's the most resourceful person working in radio in this town, if anybody can not only take it and turn it into his advantage, but give it too, it'll be him. I only hope they let him call the show anything but Jeff and Jeff. That has to be emabarassing to call the show something that it no longer is. Nice to see Lark Logan posting. She was a co-worker at one time too, hope she's well. Oh well, my son needs a ride to the movies, so I have to go. not until I stop getting it in the butt USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 17:53:20 (EST) Rita, in many ways you are correct - it is a job. But it is also our livelihood. And when that is taken away unfairly and unjustly, without warning or reason, or due to politics or personalities or whatever the unfair case may be - it hurts. And when your passion turns into pain, it hurts even more. Would you not expect a nurse NOT to complain or voice her disgust if a hospital fired her becuase the CEO didn't like her voice? Of course you would. So voicing an opinion doesn't mean we are obsessed, it means we are human and in many cases, we are hurt. I would think you would know that. When your passion also controls your paycheck, it's serious business and warrants some of the conversations that have been taking place here. And yes, it is business, but business is controlled by people, some of whom read this page. And you can't tell me the employees of those other companies you named didn't groan a little. The head certainly understands the theories, but the heart hurts from the emotions attached. And when we lose our emotions, we need to get out of this business alltogether - then we are no better than the automated equipment and syndication so many people fuss about. We are then just a machine. Been There USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 17:18:34 (EST) Okay, I will respectfully bow out then. No legal eagle USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 17:09:24 (EST) Re: No Eagle I have seen it happen. Been There USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:57:21 (EST) ooops. I meant to say "employers" can fire at will. No legal eagle USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:51:09 (EST) You are correct in that employees can fire at will in this state, but I can't believe there's a court in this land that would honor the non-compete after the empolyer terminated the relationship. The court is going tosay, sorry, you need to move out of this town if you want to work in your trade? I've never seen that happen before, and while I'm not saying it's impossible, I find it hard to fathom. No legal eagle USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:50:17 (EST) Re: Non-compete clauses. Yes, some companies can and do enforce non-competes even when they fire you or "ask" you to resign. While VA may be a right to work state, that pretty much applies to unions, meaning you don't have to be a union member to work in a coal mine, etc. Virginia is also an at-will employment state, which means, according to state code, an "Employer may terminate any employee at any time for any or no reason." That means, no warnings, no reasons, no nothing. It is totally stacked in the favor of the employer. The only time this does not apply is if there is a case of federal discrmination - i.e. race, gender, etc. Otherwise, firing in Virginia is all fair game and you have no legal recourse. Sometimes a contract can help, but not always. Suing is not an easy as you may think and the Virginia law doesn't protect the employee. Other markets have known this for a long time. Frankly, it's amazing that Richmond's turn-over rate hasn't been greater. I think all of the changes now are a big deal to everybody becuase no one here has ever seen anything like it, but in other markets, it's all quite common. It may not be right, but it's common. Been There USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:41:50 (EST) Some more WHAT IF'S?...(Thanks to Robb Hoffman, I must agree with some of the things he saw in his crystal ball...but let me add a few of my own also...).... Say Good-bye to WRVQ Q94...And hello to KISS 94.5 FM...CC fires another Jeff...This time Jeff Wicker and replaces him with Rick Dees...Jason Paige lucks out and remains midday man(as long as he can put up with the CC bureaucracy)...right now afternoons at KISS are fuzzy...Madman Pually Maddison gets the green light and continues the teenie bopper Top 8 at 8 and Pauly's Personals... CC scraps XL102...Now here comes 102 THE EDGE...Richmonders turn on their radio dial in the morning, and what is this...John Boy and Billy have moved up the dial...Where's Jeff McKee?...patience, his future will be known soon...Middays at THE EDGE now belong to cyberman Jay Philpott...Tara Hunter keeps her afternoon gig, only traveling along Basie Rd to be able to collect a paycheck...Nights are no longer local also, with Kramer and Twitch clogging the airwaves til 10 PM when Loveline yacks about those who are confused are their sexual needs... WRCL Cool 106.5FM, WTVR-FM Lite 98 change nothing...NewsRadio 1140 WRVA...besides Tim Timberlake, no one likes...Tim Timberlake begns to wonder if he should take a 6 month vacation... then get a new animal sidekick, Willard the Weasel and join former WRVA talker Jim Jacobs...Hot Talks ratings go through the roof, while WRVA's Don Bloomsquist is left sitting in the empty Church Hill studio wondering why he left Charlotte...over at SportsRadio AM 910, no more ESPN...Fox Sports takes over the airwaves... Oh the Radio Gods must have been looking out for WKLR and WMXB... Having been given the ax by Cheap Channel, Jeff Wicker follows his Q colleague, Lisa McKay to B103...Wicker takes over the morning slot...two fresh new voices are found to join him...middays (and PD) are Lisa McKay's...veteran DJ, and B103 icon, Jon Barry continues his afternoon drive...adios Charlie Padgent...Sherri Blanks takes over nights... Having quit XL, Jeff McKee rejoins his partner in morning crime, Jeff Beck at ROCK 96.5 THE PLANET...Jeff and Jeff mornings back on the air...The Planet gets another XLer in Jay Smack to do middays, brings THE BUZZ flavor to the PLANET...Rik Maybee, he becomes the afternoon man at THE PLANET...Modern Rock is added to the Classic Rock, that's why the "Classic" is dropped...evenings are fuzzy at the moment, but gone is the computer and an actual person is DJing nights... Much to the dismay of MODERN ROCK supporters, Y101 is sent packing the same way THE BUZZ was...however Main Quad/another fringe station hears the cries of Y101 listeners and brings a Modern Rock station back to the area...Y101 switches and become HITZ 101 FM, specializing in 80's music... Finally Radio One has enough with country and turns 105.7 THE RIVER into...well, not sure, but K95 has country to itself... Back to REALITY now...if any of this occurs, well hey...all we can hope for is that the dusts settles and Cheap Channel gets a pack of wild dogs attacking it... No Radio Guru USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:40:45 (EST) Hiya Ms. Bodine.. Good to see you! WE MISS YOU! Bring Back Susan B! USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:32:17 (EST) I believe that non-compete clauses would only affect those who left the station on their own accords. I don't believe they could enforce that contract if they fired the employee. AND, Virginia is also a right to work state, so I'm not sure that the non-compete clauses would actually hold up in court. I might be wrong about that. BUT, I do know that they can't enforce it if they fire you. That's like making you sign a contract saying when we fire you, you can't work in this town. Not a legal eagle USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:30:31 (EST) The thing is, even though radio is everybody's passion, it is, after all, just a job. The same thing happened to the staffs when Hannaford bought Safeway...then Kroger bought Hannaford...the same thing happened when Wachovia took over Central Fidelity. At C & P when it became Verizon.....when American takes over TWA... it's business. Nobody at Clear Channel had it out for Lisa...or Beck, or Rik (okay, maybe for Rik. They don't have it out for anybody, because they don't know anybody, and don't CARE to know anybody. It's business. If it ever comes full circle again, if the FCC ever figures out they made a major mistake with their deregulation, and only a couple of stations per market are owned by one company...THEN it will be about art...and taste...and eating, sleeping and breathing radio. Until then, just do your job, go home and enjoy your family. Betty Bodine <betybodine@aol.com> USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:29:54 (EST) What about the infamous Non-Compete clauses Cheap Channel supposedly made everyone sign? Wouldn't that make it impossible for any former Cheap Channel employee to work within a 50 mile area of the home facility? I remember they gave John Anderson absolute hell when he went to Classich hits a while back, or was that just Linda Forum? Viva USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:24:08 (EST) Oh yeah, I forgot to note that the new Chicago Kiss is owned by none other than Cheap Channels! And they're both CHRs! Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:09:14 (EST) OK I was wrong, it's Matt Nichols. Mystery solved. Anyway, it's great to hear from Jeff and Lisa after Cheap Channel fired them. Lisa nor Jeff didn't seem bitter at all; they know that there will be better days for them and Rik. I can see the whole 94.5 Kiss FM thing coming, it's time to face the music. Also for people that think two Kiss can't co-exist, listen to this. Chicago's 92 Kiss FM (owned by Big City) is now up against ex-Jammin Oldies WUBT-FM Kiss 103.5 FM. Could the same thing happen here? Only time will tell... Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> Richmond, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 16:06:59 (EST) Love the what if stuff. So much to think about. Right now, John Boy and Billy are doing very well for the Planet. Jeff and Jeff would do as well or better on a Classic Rock station where they wouldn't have to do the nasty b.s. that I know they've been forced to do by outside influences. They were born to be on Classic Rock. The Planet is a Classic Rock station, their bread and butter is their music, not Nascar. Given the chance, the Jeffs would be monsters over there. There's no one anywhere in the country that knows that music or could work that format as well as those guys. Right now, all the Planet has to offer up on the streets is Hungate. Ever meet the guy? Combine J & J on a Classic Rocker with their ability to be local and hit the streets and the Planet wins big time. John Boy and Billy on XL? We'll just have to wait and see. Why not? That way Clear Channel can realize their dream of having no living breathing people in town to annoy them. It would certainly make their Christmas party easier to arrange. If all this science fiction ever happens the winners will be the Planet - hands down, take my word for it, I was born and raised here, been a radio groupie since I was 7, and a radio peon since I was 18. J and J get on the Planet and it will be the glory days again for them. JB and B on XL? Only time will tell. As if any of us posting here have ever had a clue what the big boys want to do. As far as Lisa at B. Lisa could program anything a geiger counter and it would make money. As far as the other what if's - it's almost too much for my small head to digest. Let me ponder on it for awhile. All that being said, nice post Beck, a class act. As Beck said, I'm sure the other Jeff will continue to do great work given the limited amount of support he's getting. Sometimes it sounds like he's been stranded on a desert island. Imagine that show with as many hands on board as John Boy and Billy. Where's Woody when you need him? I'm an engineering geek and frankly the suits have no idea how to make their high tech stuff run, so I feel pretty secure, but I will say this, just like Rob, I believe this bad kharma will be translated into bad business decisions and come back to bite the clear channel ass. At least that's my new year's wish. not until I'm fired USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 15:41:11 (EST) I know I'd enjoy the irony if all of the Cheap Channel costcutting comes back to bite them -- as it enriches their market competitors... So let me idly take a few rumors, guesses, thoughts, and musings to create these scenarios [PLEASE NOTE - THESE ARE NOT RUMORS, JUST "WHAT IFs"]... imagine with me... Jeff & Jeff doing mornings on the Planet, which invigorates the station's ratings enough that Cox decides to go back to a locally-broadcast night shift instead of Propheteering... Lisa McKay as PD/middays on B103, where they mix in selected CHR/pop into the CHR/Adult format to widen the audience, Sheri Blanks shifts to evenings, but I can't see their new morning show in my crystal ball... while XL goes to all voice-track/syndicated with John Boy & Billy leading the way... Q flips to "Kiss 94.5" (buying the name from Radio One instead of suing) with a syndicated morning show (and possibly also going all voicetracked)... Radio One gives up on country, and takes the 105.7 frequency to either the rumored "Urban Talk", or maybe a younger-skewing CHurban... Cox flips WDYL (and WARV, which it LMAs from Honolulu Broadcasting) to '80's oldies, or really goes on a limb and either goes for an FM hot-talk format with Howard Stern mornings or picks up ESPN Radio (see next item) and goes for talk/sports... WRNL drops its mishmash of ESPN and other syndie sports for Clear Channel-syndicated Fox Sports Radio and cuts Al Coleman back to 5-8am to make room for FOX's 8am-noon Tony Bruno show... WRVA continues to chop away at local content outside mornings... the FCC finally allows transmitter upgrades at the 4M stations, allowing WLEE and WVNZ a chance to compete in the market... nothing changes at Main Quad, where WJZV and WBBT are pulling just enough ratings to make their advertisers dance... and the fringe-area stations like WWUZ and WBBC continue to fill format holes that aren't "profitable" for the corporate monoliths. :) At least, I know I'd have something to listen to all the time if this happened... :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 15:07:03 (EST) Has anybody seen some of the newspaper ads WRVA has been running lately? Like the one in the RTD about Dr. Laura that says WRVA is "your station for MORALITY"!!?? AS IF! Excuse me, but has Carla Cash been so quickly forgotten? Let us not forget that for years at WRVA, Carla was known around the country as the "Martyr of Morality" and even had a segment on her show called the "Morality Minute?" And don't forget about the way WRVA and the whole Clear Channel Richmond gang treated her. It was like they all did everything they could to stiffle her. How dare WRVA do what they did and then try to cash in (no punn intended) on the whole morality thing after what they did to Carla. And look what they have done now to Lou Dean - like that's moral behavior treating him to terribly. And look at some of the shows they have been running - Phil Hendrie and Lionel and Allen Price are not exactly what I would call moral. Now Carla is gone and it is our loss. Look, I am no prude. Forget about agreeing with her. Nobody agreed with her all the time - and nobody agrees with Rush all the time either. The point is she was a good talent that was local. It's all about the talent, not a popularity contest. And her ratings were tops from what I understand. She was the only one like her around. Good for her for going on and getting a national gig on Fox News. And why doesn't the RTD write something about that?! I mean I think she still lives around here. They seem to want to talk about all the victims of the Clear Channel massacres, but they don't talk about anybody who has risen above it? Harry USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 13:31:52 (EST) I was trying to avoid jumping into all this, but now that two people have tried to pin the "walking encyclopedia" moniker on me I guess I'll have to speak up. I've lived here 95% of my life and been at various stations since 1970. I know much of the market history and where a lot of the bodies are buried, but I am not "walking encyclopedia." Frankly, I can't believe more people haven't figured out who it is. It was pretty apparent from his first few posts and then he gave enough information about himself to make his identity obvious. But why should I spoil the fun and give it away? I'm enjoying reading all the guesses (except the ones with my name in them). By the way W.E., you've got some of your facts wrong about the history of the 103.7 frequency. I know because I was working there in the luxurious trailer-studios at the base of the tower at the time. As long as I'm here I should mention that Lisa McKay is one of the sweetest and most generous people I have had the pleasure to have known in this cutthroat business. If you only know about her radio work you're missing the best parts of the story because she has also devoted a tremendous amount of her time and effort to saving, housing and finding homes for stray and abused dogs. I've also seen her be very generous to people who needed help, and sometimes she's been taken advantage of. Of course, I've managed to piss her off a few times and gotten my share of memos, but that was just her job. I can't think of a PD I've ever worked for that I didn't manage to annoy on a regular basis. I've worked with/for a lot of people who deserved to lose their jobs and she wasn't one of them. But she's taking this thing in a professional, upbeat way. When I got blown out of my full-time gig at Q by Bill Thomas in 1980 it turned out to be the beginning of better things. I don't think for a minute that Lisa won't make it happen for her the same way. She'll be fine. I don't know Jeff Beck and Rik Mabee very well, just enough to say "Hi" in the hall outside the studios and I don't know if they even know who I am. But it was apparent that they were both talented, well respected professionals that knew their jobs and gave their best to XL for many years. But, as many of us have learned, those qualities don't seem to matter much when it comes to keeping a job in radio now. I wish both of them the best and hope they'll find a place where their abilities will be given the appreciation they deserve. Bob Somers <audimg@aol.com> Richmond, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 13:15:26 (EST) First of all, on behalf of myself and my partner, thanks for all the kind words posted on this site the past week. While I can't add anything to all of the speculation, I will say thay my goal is to stay in Richmond and hopefully stay in radio and or production. I'm really not in a position to comment negatively on Clear Channel. . .I will leave that to all of you. They did what they thought they needed to do. It's unfortunate they felt they had to break up a team that has been doing some great radio for almost 11 years together. Who knows, maybe I will be able to work again with my friend Jeff Mckee. Radio being the unique industry that it is, that would certainly not be out of the question. But for now, don't cry for me, I'll do just fine. Actually, McKee is in a tougher spot than I am - He still has to put together a show for Monday, a task I'm sure he'll accomplish with his usual flair. I must say he is probably the most brilliant radio professional I've had the pleasure to work with. And while it may not have always been a "pleasure", we always worked hard and gave it the best we had. I'm sure he will continue to do that. As for me. . . know of any good jobs???? E-mail me. Thanks jb Jeff Beck <jeffbeck102@hotmail.com> USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 12:19:38 (EST) Thanks to Rob giving a lot of Richmond radio people an outlet for frustrations, fears, concerns and the opportunity for all of us to feel sort of like we're part of the same family. So what's next for Richmond radio? I think we'll see many changes this year. Clear Channel's cost-cutting across the nation is just beginning in their attempt to bolster their anemic stock price. Locally, Q may morph into Kiss and I can't even offer a guess as to what's gonna happen to XL except that John Boy and Billy may eventually end up there while Jeff and Jeff may reunite on The Planet. (Beck was reportedly seen at the Cox complex this week as was Lisa). The rumour for Radio One is that The River will flip to Urban Talk, whatever that is. When Cox takes over WDYL you can kiss the "Alternative" format goodbye. That format, even when well executed like The Buzz, will never see ratings success in Richmond and it's a real bitch for AE's to sell, much less collect past due accounts. Lite 98 may see direct competition this year for the first time. It could come from the new Goochland station or it could come from Cox when they blow up Y101. I think it's a race to see who gets on the air with another soft AC first. Of course, all of this is speculation on my part. A final note: Walking Encyclopedia has to be Matt Nichols. Does anyone else know of someone who's as full of usless trivia as he is? radiodog richmond, va USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 09:04:59 (EST) Hey, I too have been disillusioned by what has happened here at 3245 Basie Road. Rik Maybee was and is a guy I look up to and respect, Jeff Beck was a good guy and Lisa McKay, my god the woman is a goddess. I can't help but wonder what else is in store, I know that working in big corporate radio is risky. But at the same sense it seems too be a crime to make a living anymore. I am tired of the suits sucking the life out of what should be the most unique and exciting job ever. I have dreamed of working here for a long time, I got my shot and it was a blast, until all this started coming down, I'm still here, but for how long? I intend to not fit in or kiss ass, to hell with these mongoloid suits and their mergers and buyouts, put them in front of a board and see how fast they break a sweat or try to keep their cool if something goes wrong or keep their show fresh every airshift. Money talks? We do too. Damn syndication, here's a novel idea..... use LOCAL TALENT!!! Weird idea I know, but there are some who would love a shot. Instead of being painted into a corner and doing nothing else. Rik, you are the man, good luck in all you do, Beck, I know you'll be just fine, and Lisa, I hardly knew you or talked with you, but you were held in the utmost highest regard from my conversations with the other Q jocks. Good luck. And to all those suits, try to realize we are the stitching of this business (or were), put your wallets away and just listen to us sometime. Sorry I can't, gotta pay the bills Richmond, Va USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 08:44:45 (EST) This message board is suddenly becoming very star-laden... :) all of a sudden, I'm feeling starstruck. I guess the only one missing from the current Richmond Cheap Channel massacre is Jeff Beck. Anyway, I just wanted to note that if you follow the DC Radio and TV website at http://www.dcrtv.com, you'll be able to read about the current Washington Cheap Channel massacre. And from scattered bits and pieces at other boards, you get the idea that there are, indeed, similar massacres going on in many Cheap Channel clusters. My question is this... has Cheap Channel overextended itself, bought too much too fast, and now is in a position of having to cut the budget due to the collapse of dot.com advertising? Anyway... shortly, I'm off to check out the "Big Boys Toy Show" *and* the "MarketPro Computer Show" at the old Fairgrounds... I'll be one of the many fanboys ogling the WWF's Lita... :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 08:03:01 (EST) Hey hey, It's Lisa McKay. Thanks for all the graffitti wall love! I'm very grateful for a long and for the most part fun run at Q. I've had the opportunity to both learn from the best and train some of the most talented youngsters, most of which have careers which have far eclipsed mine. I'm also grateful for being able to use the 94.5 airwaves to place about 3,000 homeless pets in loving homes via paws pause and raise over $350,000 for make a wish which granted 700 wishes for the kids with the 12 hours of christmas. No regrets! And I'm having a blast checking out all the world has to offer and so far my dogs are still on premium dog chow so all is well in my world. Love, Lisa lisa mcaky <lisamckay@aol.com> richmond, va USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 07:04:46 (EST) To Radio Pro and Avenger (Arthur).. You really think Walking Encyclopedia is Somers? Well, it's not. It's NOT his style at all. Keep guessing. LMAO USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 03:27:25 (EST) I am also a former Clear Channel Employee... Before the AM/FM merge went through I worked the Charlottesville "cluster." I can speak from my heart when I say I know how it feels to be told due to the "budget we can't afford you any longer"! I find that what has happen in Richmond is just a continuation to what has been going on all over the country for Clear Channel Stations everywhere! My prayers are with Lisa/Jeff and Rik ... and anyone else who had been "let go" from a Clear Channel Station that did nothing but their job and what they where told to do! I worked with each one of you. I would still be proud to work with you again tomorrow with the love and compassion that I had when I was there at Q-94 before I was let go. (Yes, I have worked for Clear Channel more than once, will I go down that road again ... they say never say never but I have a problem thinking about being fired for a third time by the same company!) I am proud to say that I work for the Free Lance Star in Fredericksburg, VA. The are a family owned business that have no intention to selling out to this "who has the most toys wins game"! This family cares about the people that work here! This is how I feel, if you treat your people right they will stand by you and with you in the ratings periods and want to make the station the best damn station in the market! I have worked with many of the people that post comments on this board! Some of them I still am in contact with, others have left the Richmond area and I would love to play catch up sometime! In closing I just want to say this, there is something bigger and better for you Lisa/Jeff and Rik! I am sorry for the pain that you have to go through to get there but I promise you once you get there you will be glad when this is all behind you! Good Luck, God Bless you and your families and your dogs too Lisa! Miss you all stay in touch if you can! Thanks Kirby for letting me know about this Graffiti Board... And to the "Boys" "Hot Damn!" Live Life and Laugh! Dee Stevens WYSK, Fredericksburg, VA **Not Ashamed to say my name or view my opinion about Clear Channel and the rotten way they have of treating "their own!"** Dee Stevens <Blulightz2@aol.com> Fredericksburg, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 01:06:56 (EST) Oh yeah, I forgot this.... THE ALL NEW KISS 94.5...TODAY'S HIT MUSIC...NOT JUST SOME OF IT! Coming to a radio near you! Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 00:49:56 (EST) I know Bob Summers is Mr. "Walking Encyclopedia" I know it. Clear Channel is a b*tch. They fired a longtime Q jock, a great midday jock, and a guy who basically (with the other Jeff) was XL. I mean besides the "Richmond's Rock Station" tag, it was "Jeff and Jeff Mornings-XL102". What's next, Wicker on his way out for Rick Dees on Q. Anything could happen with Clear Channel as they continue to kill Richmond's radio heritage. Damn you, Cheap Channel, for you will kill anything with a good rep. Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 00:43:13 (EST) I'll give you one more thing to add to the legendary status of the team that Clear Channel tore asunder. Sometime last summer, Jeff and Jeff were awarded their third consecutive " Best Morning Show in Virginia " by the VAB. I don't know if anyone even knows about that. I know they've won that award at least 4 or 5 times. Richmond should have been proud of their native sons but again, I'm not sure it was ever made public. I'd add Shane ( the top 40 years ) to the legend list. Hungate's been around for a long time but I just can't bring myself to include him in that list. He'd make the Legend in his own Mind list. I'd put Bevins there. He deserves it. He's carved a career that most of us would envy and most of us have tried for and failed. By the way, I'm a sales pig who now has to explain to my clients why my legendary morning show was ripped apart by my corporate brain trust. I'm sure McKee can handle the load and I honestly don't expect more changes in that area, but it is hard to explain to a car dealer or a small agency why something I've been touting as solid suddenly has a hole in it. Also, thanks to BT for turning me on to this spot. Very cool. How about legendary sales guys? Know of any? please no names USA - Saturday, January 13, 2001 at 00:20:08 (EST) Okay. From a creativity point of view, plus the ability to be versitile, I'd go with Jeff and Jeff. I recall shows that had nothing to do with dumbass humor that truly moved me. Had the hair on the back of my neck standing on end. They took chances and would be silly one day and interview a death row inmate the next. When the shit hit the fan and there was a war, a disaster, a national crisis they'd switch gears and reveal their humanity. McKee can interview anybody with the best of them. I don't think they steal from anybody, their stuff is of their own invention. They came to town strangers, made themselves an essential part of Richmond and made their bits an essential part of Richmond. I was here their first few years and I recall all of Richmond stopping to listen to Spelling with Chuck. Regardless of format, there isn't a person under 50 in this town who hasn't heard and enjoyed their calls of the day. Those prank calls hold up to anyone's anywhere. The way they can go to the edge and yet not offend Richmond's sensibilities show an ability to read the market that dozens of others who have come and gone failed to recognize. I also think that if you listen with an open mind you'll hear very intelligent men communicating and entertaining. Now we have to make that itelligent man because for no apparent reason, corporate america has trashed a piece of art. Mabye that's my rock bias coming through. I hear Bevins on MXB, it was a pleasant, friendly show at best. Maybe I'm ranking creativity, versitility and intelligence more highly than Bill's most obvious assets. As I think this through, simply being there for people, day in day out for a good portion of their lives could qualify a broadcaster as a legend. So I'll bend more for Bill but say that Jeff and Jeff combined that long lasting quality with a higher degree of talent. I also believe that they could do his kind of show but he could never do theirs. Other legends? Obviously Alden. And then you have to ask the question...in who's minds? Other broadcasters or the publics? Is a legend defined by simply defying the pitfalls of our business and staying on the air for a long time? Then add Rik Maybee, Kirby, Betty Bodine, Lou Dean and Tim. My bottom line for legendary status would be a combination of talent that would work in any market size combined with durability. In my mind's eye and through my perspective, which in only about 13 years in and out of this town, the pickings are slim. What about you guys? btw, my wife wants me off this damn thing and into bed so I'll see you again some other time. If we weren't so afraid of outing ourselves, it would be fun to get together for a vokda tonic. whatever USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 23:57:11 (EST) Whatever/Gaga, who would YOU consider Richmond radio legends? I'm curious. Hot Damn USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 23:27:44 (EST) "Whatever" just so you know, Bill Bevins hasn't called Lite 98 home all his career. Before Lite 98, he woke Richmond up on WMXB B103.7 and before that, well I'm not quite sure. You don't need to be funny to be good. But you do need to be good to be funny, and Richmond's longtime DJ's like Bill Bevins, Jeff and Jeff, Tim Timberlake, Betty Bodine have/(had) a following becuase they are/were good at what they do (or did) and Richmonders enjoy(ed) listening to them. Richmond radio will never be the same without these people. We should thank them and the other DJ's who have remained in Richmond for such a long time. Thanks to them!!!! No Radio Guru USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 23:10:34 (EST) Walking Encyclopedia = Bob Summers? No Radio Pro USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 22:55:30 (EST) Dude, you call Bevins a legend? Just because a guy can keep a job doesn't make him a legend. He gives good time and temp? Give me some realistic analysis that pinpoints some memorable highs in his career. Tell me about that great show he did in.... never mind. The guy's rode the crest of a lite station and just hasn't blown it. If I sound jealous maybe I am. I have better pipes. I can be as warm and fuzzy. Part of this business is just dumb luck. He's no legend. Give me memorable moments, shows that you'll always recall, great long lasting bits, some evidence of creativity, Bevins a legend? I'm still waiting for evidence of any of those things. To my ears Cheap Channel just split up the best shot at legendary jocks. At least as I look back on their equally long career here in town I can remember things they did. Bevins, hey, he said " Mornin' Y'all " really good last June 14. Not bitter, just jealous whatever USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 22:53:27 (EST) Personal to Radio Ga-Ga:Well,whoever I am,I never wanted to "make" it in radio,I just wanted to DO radio.And I DID do it,for quite awhile.And I STILL do it on the weekends,What is your definition of "making it"?I never had any desire to go to NY,LA, & the like,and as far as "making it in Richmond Radio" well,years ago I had a full time job with a Top 10 FM station that went to #1.(I will never take credit for getting that particular station to number 1,but I was working there at the time it happened)I think I "made" it in my mind.I had certain goals & things I wanted to do & I did most of them.I hit my mountaintop so to speak.I never wanted to become a legend like Bill Bevins.Look,not everybody who gets into politics wants to be President Of The United States.We all have out little personal goals,some guys just want to be on a board of supervisors or city manager.Now to the gossip part.Have you seen me spread any real damaging gossip on this thing,have I said somebody is sleeping with somebody,or somebody does drugs,or somebody is a crook,no not at all.(and I do not count myself among the chorus of Clear Channel rippers,either)I've always indicated those are just my OPINIONS.As far as knowing everything,I never said I did.I know a lot about Richmond,but I'm sure people like Kirby Carmicheal or Lou Dean know a hell of lot more.Okay,Gaga,are you one of the following?Dave Reynolds,Mike Rivers,Dave Jasper,Bill James,Chuck Morgan,Or maybe Gary Robbins.We're waiting! walking encyclopedia USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 22:27:55 (EST) Clear Channel may say that dwindling ratings effected revenue and caused them to make cuts. 2 points: 1. Most of the decling ratings were due to bad management decisions forced on programmers. If there's anyone who should be blamed for slipping ratings, it's not the ones who were let go, it's the ones who let them go. 2. All around the country there is blood on the floors of Clear Channel buildings, successful Clear Channel stations have had the same executions. Word to anyone who might read this that still has a job and a contract. Hang in there, we don't blame you for keeping your day ( or morning ) job. Don't give in to those bastards. Love this site, it's funny, we probably all know each other but don't or didn't have the balls to say these things to one another face to face. It's too late for me, but I still care. Rik, like everyone's said, take a deep breath and smile, you'll be okay. Beck, just find a way to do what you excell at and you'll make a buck and won't have the stress that probably caused you to get sick in the first place. Lisa, you, more than anyone will land on your feel asap. To my brethren who still remain at that black hole on Basie, Tara, just go in to work, do your job and go home to your family and cash your paycheck. Fuck 'em. Johnny, I know you do what you do because you love it. You're my hero. Jeff McKee, they may take Beck away from you, but they can't take away the skill that make you the most gifted, intelligent and funny guy this town has ever had speak into a mike. I grew up listening to you, I got into this stupid business because I wanted to be like you, don't do something stupid and let the meanies win. Take heart people, I wish we could have a party or all meet at a bar somewhere. Anyone out there have any ideas? mr inside now on the outside USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 20:37:56 (EST) True radio gypsy here. I've been in this business for over 25 years. Been to the bigs, been to the smalls, got a gig in the medium and due to family have to keep it, but oh my god, do I want to spew to someone in a suit. Busting up the Jeffs was the last straw. Let's just say that I've been close enough to the situation and because of several trips to this town, close enough in context and perspective to know that those guys were Richmond radio. Local, loyal, talented and unique. I know for a fact that as each regime came to town they tinkered and toyed and took the Jeffs away from doing what they do best and still they thrived because of their inate talent and drive. Beck is gone and McKee has all the talent and drive in the world and if left alone, can still be the class of the market, but there has to be a hole in his soul. Don't want to sound gay but it's almost as if some corporation came in and removed the man's wife. He can still do his job, but his partner, his support system, is gone. Why? An invisible monster with a game plan based solely on the bottom line trimmed the fat. In this case, they didn't trim the fat, they cut out one guy's heart and stabbed the other guy in the back. I hope this doesn't blow my cover, but I watched part of McKee's show the other morning through the plate glass window. To the world, it sounded like a very good show, but I had to wonder how this guy can summon up whatever it takes to keep on going while his brother lies dead on the side of the road. A true pro, motivated by pride, talent and, like me, the need to take care of his family. To us in the business these aren't " radio personalities " they're flesh and blood people using their god given talents to earn a living. I think McKee can survive and prosper, he's that good, but it'll be a hollow victory for him. If they just leave it like it is with no give and take and laughter in the studio, it will sound empty, like Seinfeld without the laugh track. Something will be missing. But you know clear channel won't pay to fill that room, they'll just let the guy twist in the wind. In many regards, Beck got the better of the deal. He'll find something and the pressure and bad vibes will be gone. Rik was a strange duck, but that's what made him a singular personality. He was on the air in Richmond for something like 20 years. Canning him and spliting up the Jeffs is tantamount to going down to Monument Avenue and knocking down the statues with a bulldozer and putting in gas stations, just to make the median strip more profitable. There comes a time when too much profit and not enough care for the community will bite someone in their corporate posterior. If there's any smart programmers who have a say in what their station's do, they'll find a way to at least reunite the Jeffs The good will and good shows would generate income for years to come, and isn't that what the suits think it's all about. Last thought: anybody else out there having trouble sleeping lately? I honestly don't think there's anything any of us can do. But look at this, in a way like Lark put it, it's a holocaust. First they came for the mid day guys, then the overnighters, then the morning guys and programmers. Then there was no one left. There's no way to fight back, but I think this site is, if nothing else, a good opportunity for therapy, especially for some of us part timers who don't have benefits and can't afford a shrink. Hang in there Becker, you'll land on your feet. Keep doing what you do McKee, who you are and the things you do so well have become part of who some of us are after all these years and we need you and what you do as much as you need us. Rik, don't let what the bad guys did undermine your self esteem or sense of worth, you're a gem. Lisa, I never worked for you but you seemed to be a class act and that is beyond a rare commodity at 3425 Basie Road these days. Final thought. As I stated when I began this post, I've been in almost every type of market, I know a talent when I hear one. I always wondered why the Jeffs didn't take their act to a larger market, make the big bucks and syndicate. Maybe this is the push they need to do something like that. Let's all wear a symbolic black armband for our fallen comrads. God, I wish I had the balls to post my name by my kids need the extra income. want to remain employed USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 20:21:09 (EST) Rik sued Clear Channel when they first took over. As did Gretchen Hart. They both won, but Gretchen accumulated a large paper trail in a short amount of time. She was let go soon after the suit. Anyone know where she is now? Rik did the unthinkable, took on a major company and WON! Corporate has had an axe to grind with him ever since. I hope he lands on his feet very soon. I agree with Leigh, Jeff Mckee must know something's up right now. Personal opinion? They want him to quit so they don't have to pay out his contract. Prediction? Lassman won't be getting the 'PD of the Year' award any time soon. Insider USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 20:17:31 (EST) I'm checking in from work, so a short thought for now... what if we have completely missed something here? Lark's gone from the Planet (that shift is Propheteered), Sheri Blanks was moved to B103, they probably know they're about to lose their morning show... forget WMXB or WDYL switching to '80's oldies... can you say "96.5 The Planet: The Best of the '80's"? Why not... Cox can afford to let the station drift a bit until they line up a new staff... and to all the current and former Richmond Radio folks finding their way here... HI from a longtime radio fan and wannabe. :) Although looking at the state of radio now, maybe I'm sorta glad I didn't make it. :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 18:58:26 (EST) I'm very disappointed about the break-up of XL-102's Jeff & Jeff. I worked with them from '89 until '92 and Clear Channel showed up with the great radio holocost. There were times when we fought like cats and dogs, but when it counted the three of us were always united (you had to be with Paul Shugrue as "PD") and always presented a united front. Over the summer I had a chance to catch up with McKee and told him one day down the line, I'd really like to work with he and Beck again. As I look back at that time when Bob Neumann was the PD, I think those were the best times for XL in the morning and they amount to the very FEW great experiences I've had in radio. The others being at KISS-108/Boston and Q-104.3/New York. My days at the Planet, especially the last year and a half are not worth mentioning nor remembering. May they have a great time with Prophet and their cyberjock. It's very sad to see what radio has become and makes me glad I'm no longer in that madding crowd. However to see a great talent like Rik Maybee displaced and Jeff Beck truly makes me angry. Beck is a production god and will certainly go onto bigger and better things...maybe his own thing. I wish the best for him. Rik Maybee was always a class act and a font of musical knowledge. His loss is Clear Channels and one day that will be made evident. I also wish good things for him as he deserves better. Lark Logan <nyn8tv@hotmail.com> USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 17:57:44 (EST) Hey everyone, I DO WORK FOR CLEAR CHANNEL. At least I do right now. The ax hasn't fallen my way yet. But I'm not making any long term plans either. I'm the over night guy on XL102. A friend recently pointed this page out to me and I have to say I find it very interesting. Lots of the rumors and speculations are pretty much the same that the staff has. That's right the staff has only speculations also. We don't know any more than you do about what's going to happen. We are so mis informed about the most simple things. For example, I work every night on air and I was never told about this new contest we have going on to give away trips to the super bowl. I finally learned about it when I saw a commercial for it on TV!! Now how silly is that. Our web site says that 3 Doors Down is coming to Richmond. None of us know anything about it. Leigh says it best in her posting. This is the worst company to work for. My problem is that if I land another job in a different market, I can't afford to move out of town. Hell, I have a nephew working at McDonald's making more money than I do. So if I want to stay in radio I have to just bend over. Gotta tell you though, You can only screw a man so much before he starts to bleed. What can you do about any of this? I wish I could tell you. People will still listen even if it is just a computer running the show. Just know that NONE of us are happy. NONE of us like what's going on here. and NONE of us are safe. We are just sitting ducks. If some one in management sees this I'll probably loose my job. But you know, I'm tired of worrying about it. No one is paying me enough to be silent. Johnny Young <Metalfile@WRXL.com> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 17:47:11 (EST) How many of the people who post on this site have ever taken the time to express their opinions to the STATIONS they're talking about? If you're not heard, your wants won't be addressed and lame programming will continue. Speak up and there might be some hope. Merely changing the station is not always the loudest statement. Call somebody, write a letter, help! on the inside USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 16:58:45 (EST) As a former Clear Channel employee I would like to add a few things. First, when all of the stations merged together the writing was on the wall that there would be budget cut backs. Sad but true! So I was one of the ones that quit before the ax appeared. I should say one of the at least 20 that quit-by the way the paper misquoted that number-I think that total as of now is around 30. But the way this company has proceeded with firing all of these people is what really gets me. How on earth could you possibly feel comfortable working there at this point in time. With a negative environment like that how do they expect people to produce to the best of their ability. The people who are left must feel like a sitting duck. With leaders at the station either being fired or quitting, what happens to their staff? Breaking up a morning team-what is that all about-doesn't look good to me. Does Clear Channel even care-my guess would be no due to my personal experience. My heart goes out to Lisa, Jeff & Rik and all of the others who have suffered. There is more to it than loosing them at the mike-these people have homes, families & even health conditions. The only thing I can say to try to turn this negative into a positive is...I will quote a friend "At least they don't have to work for those people anymore". If anyone asks me 20 years from now to name the worst company that I ever worked for it will hands down be Clear Channel. The only thing positive that I can say in direct regards to that is I did make some great friends there that I will have forever. Leigh Eubank <l.eubank@rir.com> USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 16:03:20 (EST) Hint Hint?...The past two postings by those who "can't say" appear to have some insight into the changes mentioned by others that may occur at Q94 and XL102. If Lisa McKay was fighting the inevitable at Q, then are we about to get Kiss 94.5 FM with Wicker in the Morning being scrapped for Rick Dees? (Wicker's morning crew has dwindled lately...gone are Betty Bodine; her replacement Nicki West, who moved back to NC; Travis Dillon; and Skip "The Intern")...Then over at XL, is 102 The Edge about to become reality? Will John Boy and Billy be snatched from "96.5 The Planet" and get placed into the now 'Jeff and "fired" Jeff' in the morning slot?...if anyone has some insight into all this chaos, please share it...finally, off this entirely, Richmond Radio Legend Lou Dean is retiring this week...online article can be found here: http://www.msnbc.com/local/wwbt/343735.asp ... No Radio Guru USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 15:30:01 (EST) Just got turned on to the sight. I too work in radio in Richmond and I want to come to Beck's defense. He always took the time to show me a trick or two in the production room and I found him to be a gentleman. I can't believe they would split those guys. I used to watch them work together and McKee would direct but Beck made the technical magic happen. What fools those suits at Clear Channel are. I'm a minimum wage part timer so they won't mess with me. It's just that one day I hoped to be like either Jeff and now I see that no one no matter how talented is safe. If that's the case, then by what standards are these decisions being made. I'm sure Beck will land on his feet. I too found Jeff McKee to be a nice guy but I also know that he's passionate about what he does and may be very hurt by the destruction of his team. I hope he's okay. One more thing. Yes, Lisa was a strict boss, but she was kind and compassionate and took very special care of those who needed it. Screw those scumbags, they've hurt some very special people. I can't say either USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 15:01:50 (EST) I've worked at 4 stations in Richmond and I agree that the changes that have taken place lately are heartbreaking. Lisa McKay was a stern taskmaster but she knew what she was doing. Chalk this one up to political infighting. I think she may have been let go after fighting the inevitable changes that will shortly be forthcoming at the Q. Rick Maybe was a victim of his time slot. Cheap Channel's motto should be " why pay more than we have to? " Hey, the guy said 6 sentences an hour. They developed a 40 million dollar process so that they can save 30 thousand dollars in mid days. This said, he is a talented guy and it's a shame he's out of the biz. What else? Oh, Jeff and Jeff. I've worked in the building where those guys worked for years. It's true that McKey was the heart, soul and brains of the team and it was his efforts and talents that made them successful, but Beck is a very talented production guru and there's a lot to be said for staying with the two guys you grew up with in your home town. I don't think that the show will suffer with Beck's departure, but breaking up the Jeffs just brings home the point that this is a harsh, cold business. It's like forcing two brothers to fight on opposite sides in a war. I feel for Beck but I also feel for McKey. He's be okay but I'm sure his heart is broken. Whenver I worked with him he was a great guy who took the time to talk and teach little peons like me. Good luck to both of the Jeffs, after all those glory days giving this town a homegrown show to be proud of, it's a shame. Can't Say USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 14:39:04 (EST) Don't Thank me Betty, Thank Bob Somers he turned me on to this Page. Kirby Carmichael <NJ455@AOL.com> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 14:20:52 (EST) Wow, how long has THIS page been going? Thanks, Kirby, for the heads up on it. I was thinking I was missing radio, guess I retired at a good time! Betty Betty Bodine <betybodine@aol.com> Richmond, Va USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 14:05:35 (EST) The best thing we can do as radio *fans* is encourage people to listen to stations that use local talent instead of voice-tracking and syndication... so XL102 is now off my presets (between Jay Crackpott and the night team of Phlegm & Wretch, how can XL even be called a "local" station anymore?), although while dialflipping this morning I heard them call the morning show "Jeff & Jeff" days after firing half the title... when Q94 starts voice-tracking (if they haven't already), they're gone (and just wait, since his name was invoked, until Cheap Channel's order to terminate overnight jocks means Kirby's job won't exist -- that's going to cause a firestorm)... basically, don't listen to Cheap Channel stations, don't encourage your friends to, and hope that some of your friends are Arbitron households... notice we're not saying anything bad about Radio One and the local broadcasters (4M, Main Quad) -- THEY CARE ABOUT RADIO and understand that you can have both good radio and good profits... Cheap Channel's greed will be their downfall one day... anyway, sorry I'm rambling. :) Final point: someone like me, who wanted to get back into radio by pulling a weekend gig or two -- we're totally screwed in the New Radio Millennium... stations will either voice-track weekends, load up on syndicated programming, or simply run jockless. And they know people will listen, because they don't think they can do anything about it. When are the licenses up for our local stations, anyway? It might be fun to challenge a Cheap Channel license renewal or two, just to irritate them... :) OK, I'll stop rambling now... :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 10:50:05 (EST) XL 102's new mid-day guy is a cyberjock. He'll be voice-tracking WRXL in addition to WLOL, Minneapolis from his home station KZPS, Dallas. radiodog richmond, va USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 09:14:03 (EST) Can any one tell me what happened to Jocks, Terry Young, Lee Michaels and Sonny Caan from the Richmond area during the late 70's? Thanks. Bman Barny Pickles <Bman@iname.com> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 07:45:10 (EST) Kirby Carmichael keeps me up to date on what's going on in Richmond. I find it terrible sad that a great radio station as Q94 and a great radio town as Richmond, should have to suffer at the hands of an outlaw mentality of greed. Corey Deitz <coreydeitz@usa.net> Little Rock, AR USA - Friday, January 12, 2001 at 03:49:34 (EST) The URL isn't mine, but I think it sums up how most people are starting to perceive Cheap Channel Communications. :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 12:34:57 (EST) Sorry for the double post. I wanted to correct a typo and it showed up anyway! Oops! Viva USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 08:50:32 (EST) Clear Channel and Cox are no doubt paying homage to the Prophet/Profit God as their money continues to roll in at the expense of good, live, local talent. There will be an 8th level added to Dante's Inferno just for them. May congress get a grip and give radio back to the private sector! Viva USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 08:49:10 (EST) Clear Channel and Cox no doubt are paying homage to the Prophet/Profit god as their money continues to roll in at the expense of good, live talent. They'll be an 8th circle added to Dante's inferno just for them! Viva USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 08:47:01 (EST) Whoops - typo below. Should read "Beck's health insurance cost too much", not "McKee's". :) I should NEVER post before noon. Rob Hoffmann USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 07:59:00 (EST) From the Times-Disgrace article on the firings at Basie Road... "'Change is inevitable in radio,' said XL program director John Lassman. 'Part of this was budgetary.'" (end quote)... OK... *Part* was because Cheap Channel is too cheap to pay what 15-20 year veterans of radio should be paid... part is probably because McKee's health insurance cost too much... part is probably because McKay and Maybee told the corporate pencil-pushers where to shove their plans for the stations in 2001 :)... and none of it has anything to do with the listeners, because Cheap Channel knows they're sheep and will listen to anyone as long as they get their fix of Britney and Christina on Q or the 5 millionth replay of "Enter Sandman" on XL... and since John Boy & Billy are a Premiere Network property, I'd say it's a slam dunk they'll wind up on a Cheap Channel station as soon as CC can murder enough witnesses to do it... about the only thing we can hope for is that this happens in enough markets that Congress steps in to re-regulate radio (when the Democrats, as always happens at mid-term of a Republican presidency, take over Congress in January 2003)... I'd love to see Cheap Channel forced by law to sell off a few hundred stations for pennies on the dollar... :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 07:56:55 (EST) Hey radio GAGA, I think you underestimate the attraction of gossip with Richmond radio personalities (and Charlottesville/ Winchester,Fredricksburg/Norfolk/Roanoke personalities as well.) Aren't you on this board LOOKING for gossip? I guess we can add your name to the list. I have a pretty good idea who you are, but for the sake of argument why don't you give us the same clues Walking Encyclopedia has? for the record, I think he's Scott Stevens. Hot Damn USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 05:33:16 (EST) OK people. Here's some food for thought. Time to start some rumors. Let's look at what's going on with the great God's of Clear Channel. They are getting rid of all the higher salery people. Why? Is it so the CC executives can afford caviar to spread all over their high priced hookers? Or is it so they can afford to buy out higher profile contracts? Take into consideration that "The Planet" has been a giant thorn in CC's side ever since they signed on. It just so happens that John Boy and Billy's contract is up for renual. Do you think it could be a possibility that CC plans on signing those redneck idiots for XL? I hope Jeff Mckey isn't fealing like he dodged any bullets. God help us if JB and Billy end up on XL. But then again it dosen't matter too much to me because XL realy sucks right now. They were doing so well untill this Lassman character was hiered. Now it's just old warmed over crap on the air. I mean God knows we need to hear Bad Company for the 50,000th time. I give up I'm sticking to internet radio!! Hate Clear Channel Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 01:28:54 (EST) Here's my guess on who Mr.Encyclopedia is....Let me see could it be Matt Nichols?? Who else spends all of his time spreading gossip? Do us all a favor leave the business!!! Get over the fact that you NEVER made it in Richmond and quit acting like you know everything!!! Grow up and learn to keep your mouth shut!!!! Radio GAGA USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 22:48:04 (EST) Hummmm...budgetary reasons led to Lisa McKay, Jeff Beck, and Rik Maybee being let go from Q and XL...first question has to do with Jeff Beck...Jeff and Jeff on XL was one of the most popular morning shows in Richmond, and now what?...maybe it's just me, but getting rid of half of a popular duo isn't the wisest thing to do...if anyone has any insight into this, please fill me in...second, who's going to replace Lisa McKay at Q?...are there anymore shake ups not revealed yet that are going to take place?(Jeff Wicker still going to be the morning guy at Q?)...finally, is there any news on Jackie and Bender's replacement at B103?...thanks for trying to answer any of these questions... No Radio Guru USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 21:52:49 (EST) To the ones who responded to my email,your guess on my true ID is correct.As far as Q94 turning into Kiss.Let me ask you,if you were Clear Channel,would YOU want to get into a legal fight with the premere minority owned outlet and have it show up in the national trades,all over market 56,I really don't think they want THAT kind of publicity,not for Richmond,wouldn't be worth it.WRVQ is not a lost cause,I think it's just a matter of nip & tuck.Let me point out the ratings have been better the last couple of years,so Lisa must've learned a few things during her tenue.I'm intrested to see how she applies her 8 years of programming knowlege at her next station(and believe me guys there WILL be a next station for her).Hey,I have heard Tidewater oldies outlet WVKL(95.7) flipped to Urban A/C in the last couple of days.I think that will benefit Cool 106.5 in Richmond & The Shark 102.5 out of Nags Head.I wonder if anybody in Tidewater will pick up the oldies flag? walking encyclopedia USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 20:19:27 (EST) It's a shame Clear Channel or shall I say Cheap Channel has let Jeff Beck go. FMQB says Jeff McKee will continue to host the AM show, but those two have synched up so well. Unlike most teams who are hired together, the Jeffs did not work together prior to XL. It took a while, but they became a good tandem. Jeff Beck is incredibly talented especially in the area of production. I have a feeling something bigger and better will come along for him. Better if he starts his own imaging business and be his own boss. It's CC's loss. I'm amazed about Rik Maybee being let go as well. He's a walking encylopedia of music and was such a mainstay. Radio has truly become a rabid beast...so much like the hateful character of Media. Here's to better things down the road. Viva USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2001 at 09:02:20 (EST) You're right Rob, CC is going after every small company that is using the Kiss moniker, and every compaqny using the Edge moniker is next. Radio One is not what I'd call small, but it isn't CC sort of large. The only company CC doesn't seem to want to dicker with is CBS, and I'm sure it's a money/lawyer issue. I wouldn't be surprised to see Q94 flip to Kiss 94 and XL102 flip to 102 the Edge. There is a reason CC has purchased the franchise on these names... Hot Damn USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 22:23:35 (EST) I know about Kiss 104.7, guys... but keep in mind that Cheap Channel just stole the "Kiss" name in Omaha, Nebraska from an established country station by claiming copyright protection on the word "Kiss" as a radio identifier. Yeah, that's our Cheap Channel - if you can't compete on the air, compete in court. I figure they go after the Kiss name here Real Soon Now... why stop when they're ahead? But seriously, things had been so static at the top of the Richmond ratings chart that a shakeup or two were inevitable... I am surprised it happened BEFORE the Fall book came out, though... Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 21:17:00 (EST) Hi I am Joey Spencer better known as Spencer Stevens when I worked at WREJ 1540 am and 104.7 Kiss FM. I have been reading this page for quite a while now and I am very surprized by what I hear. I agree with many of the commnets that I hear and I wanted to tell you my feelings on the subject. I have worked for Radio One and 4m Communications and I have seen people come and go. It is very sad to see people who by the way have families lose their jobs. My heart goes out to you. Hey I look at it this way, It is their loss and someone elses gain, just look at Jim Jacobs. WRVA's loss is WLEE's gain. By the way I would hope that you would look seriouly at some of our gospel stations in town. I worked at am 1540 WREJ in the afternoons for 3 years. Gospel music stations do not get the respect they derserve. I will give you an example I think one of the last ratings books had WREJ at number 14 in the market. That made it the 2nd most listened to am station in the market behind WRVA. That has to account for something but it does not beacuse I guess people in Richmond only listen to fm right. WRONG!! Check out this format people it is blowing up across the country. Raleigh NC, Norfolk Va, Columbia SC, and some other markets already have fm gospel sations and I know the raleigh on at 103.9fm made to number 1 in the ratings beeting WQOK 97.5 without trying to hard. Wake up people. The other gospel stations arr 1590 WFTH which is satellite most of the time(the Light) which is based in Atlanta. Also there is 1240 am WGCV. AM 1540 has a 10,000 signal and is blessed. check them out. You won't be sorry and by the way it is owned by 4m communications. Jim Jacobs I think is stil the operations manager. By the way I think the KISS name at 104.7 is exclusive> I may be wrong See ya Joey Spencer <joey00574@cs.com> Richmond , Va USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 21:13:32 (EST) I really don't think CC wil turn Q94 into Kiss.One very good reason is that Radio One has got the "KISS" logo all locked up with Kiss 104.7,and they are doing very well,and I think Radio One would fight that tooth & nail if CC tried.Besides,they have an very valuable frachise with Q94 and it would be silly to kill it for something that's already got another image in this market.From what I've been able to observe,the Kiss franchising has occured in markets where CC didn't have a good CHR presence & on stations that were really sucking eggs in other formats(if you want to find an example of that kind of station in Richmond,I would cite 105.7.)And,it should be noted,CC has serveral CHR stations in other markets not using the Kiss Logo and doing very well(Tampa,Oklahoma City,New York for instance).By the way,how many people caught 70's WLEE jock Terry Young auditioning on Dance Hits 107.3 a couple of weeks ago.From what I've heard,it was a sympathy audition,Javier Hernandez has got that gig locked up.Hey Rob,If you know my real ID email it to me on my anon email---Jocksaver4you@yahoo.com.and I'll tell you if you were right. walking encyclopedia USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 20:13:35 (EST) I am no radio guru, but...what's up with Q94?...I'm not in Richmond at the moment, so all this is news to me...Lisa McKay out? when did this happen?...and doesn't Richmond already have a Kiss station (i.e. Kiss 104.7 FM, is this still around?)...Q94 becoming Kiss 94.5?, someone explain what the difference would be with this happening...and may I again make known: RICHMOND NEEDS A MODERN ROCK RADIO STATION...keep Y101 right where it is...add the 80's music to B103 along with it's Modern Rock slant and you will have one great station with A LOT OF VARIETY. Radio Listeners like variety, not the same few songs every two to three hours. (on last thought...to jump start itself, maybe Dance Hit 107 (107.3 FM) should hired Lisa McKay to have a big name on its airwaves...just a thought) No Radio Guru USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 19:00:50 (EST) What "Hot Damn" said is going to be very prophetic. No matter that Q94 draws decent ratings for the Richmond market... no matter that there is exactly NO interest in a "Kiss" format in the market... Cheap Channel doesn't believe in fitting its programming to the market... they'd rather try to fit the market to their programming. On that note, I would expect AM910 to flip from ESPN to FOX Radio (syndicated by Cheap Channel's Premiere Radio subsidiary) this year, as well as seeing "Kiss 94.5" arrive. Cox will still flip one station to '80's oldies -- the comment that it might be a WARV/WDYL simulcast makes sense. All of which will leave the Richmond area ripe for XM Satellite Radio to market. :) 2001 is starting to look velly interesssssting... Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 18:40:32 (EST) Why would you say Lisa was NOT a leader? Because she didn't hire you? Your post shows you know very little about how clear channel operates. The days of your beloved Super Q are long gone. The only reason you still recall them is because Lisa McKay had the wisdom to keep Shotgun John, Bob Sommers and Bobalou happy. Hell, forget Super Q now, start thinking Super Kiss. Mark my words. The boss jocks you love will be gone very soon. Lisa kept that station what it was despite the environment. It's a shame she's gone. Super Kiss, coming soon to a Super station near you Richmond. Hot damn USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 18:27:17 (EST) First let me say that I don't revel in the fact that ANYONE loses a job. It's just not a laughing matter. That having been said... Maybe now the days of old will return with some leadership of some kind. Lisa McKay was NOT a leader, and the days of Forem/McKay have finally closed. Maybe now we, the listeners of Richmond, can have our beloved Super-Q back! Q9ti4 Richmond, Va USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 18:08:22 (EST) I remember the bumper sticker sniffing story very well. Somebody from the Henrico County school system sent a letter to XL102's General Manager (Greg Pearson) complaining that some students were sniffing XL bumper stickers and were "exhibiting signs of strange behavior and the like." Having zero money for any kind of station promotion, we took the ball and ran with it. I did the "Bumper Sticker Sniffing Test" during my afternoon drive show. To tell you the truth, after sniffing approximately 20 bumper stickers during the 4 hour shift, I did catch a little buzz. Steve Forrest <steve.forrest@cox.com> Richmond, VA USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 14:11:55 (EST) Not bad... Cheap Channel has now chased Brian Illes out of XL and Lisa McKay out of the Q... not to mention all the changes at Moorefield... WILL THE LAST ONE TO LEAVE RICHMOND RADIO PLEASE TURN OUT THE LIGHTS? :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 08:05:48 (EST) Lisa McKay out of Q94? Say it ain't so!!!! I'm sure this multitalented lady will have her choice of job offers, I just hate to see her exit the Q. She is one of a kind, and I cringe to think of how low and how quickly that station will sink without her guidance, as the Clear Channel sharks swim closer and closer. I worked there when it was fun, and even when it wasn't, Lisa made it fun. Such a sad day it is. VA Radiopro USA - Tuesday, January 09, 2001 at 05:13:53 (EST) Does anyone remember the infamous "bumper sticker sniffing" news stories about WRXL in the late 1970's? RadioBoy Richmond, VA USA - Monday, January 08, 2001 at 05:33:08 (EST) WOBR, in its AAA format as Beach 95, died for one reason, and one reason only: an owner, who decided an old-line format with Kenny and Dolly would be better. She was proven wrong, by the station having tanked. Fortunately for her, crosstown rivals became able to buy each other, or she would have lost it all. The format itself was left open for WVOD to cash in, and it seems to be doing well. There was always room for a rock station to flourish down there; good to see WOBR capitalizing on it. Todd Mitchell <toddmitchell@y93.fm> Bismarck, ND USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 15:37:31 (EST) I've been told that Honnolulu Broadcasting who brought 100.3 WARV Petersburg is just holding company for Cox.My guess it will be used as a simulcast for whatever they put on 101.1(I'd recomend simulcasting 1380 because it's reception in the Tri-Cities has always been lousy)I believe the reason Radio One is keeping Country on 105.7 is that it's probably making money.I think they are going after clients who want to do country but can't afford K95,and stressing the upper level demo's that businesses LOVE to hear.I've seen station's with lousy ratings make money for years for any number of strange reasons.Back in the 80's ,WOBR-FM Nags Head(now a straight ahead classic rock station)made money for years playing a very strange mix of pop & rock music(Example:Bobby McFerrin into the Grateful Dead into The Partland Brothers(anybody remember THEM?)into the Beatles into Dan Fogelberg.)I think the reason THEY made money was because they were the first station on the air down there(about 1970)and the sales & managmenmt had been there for years and were very intrenched in the local community(what I've heard,that's called the "Howdy! George"approach to selling).But it caught up with them in the mid 90's when the competition started to increase & started polishing up their act.They were eventually brought up by the local country station and switched to classic rock.Go figure! walking encyclopedia USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 12:32:15 (EST) I am recusing myself from the Search for Walking Encyclopedia's Name... I received an anonymous Email tip and it wouldn't seem fair to use it. :) Other stuff... I always thought consultants had no credibility in radio unless they had trashed the ratings of at least 5 stations as PD or GM before going into consultancy... (going over my notes of stuff I wanted to ask before) does anyone know who the company is that's buying WARV from Radio One and what they're going to do with a signal that doesn't reach the James River?... any idea when the FCC might move on the requests for signal upgrades from the 4M stations (WLEE 910, WVNZ 1320) because I would like to be able to listen to Richmond Renegades road games without having to be chained to my PC?... and back to Radio One, for how long can an urban-leaning company like them put up with country music on The River? :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 11:47:16 (EST) Yes, I noticed that about WRVA. They have just gone too far from their roots too fast. As a previous message states, the roots are dead... It's just a matter of time. I'm sure that's what the consultants recommended. Also, I heard James St. James definition of a consultant the other day, I just gotta post it here: "A consultant is a guy that knows 50 ways to make love, but doesn't know any women". About WMXB... they never did call themselves "Mix 103" or anything similar, they went straight from "EZ-104" to B103.7. I do remember that they changed their calls from WEZS to WMXB within a few weeks of "Mix 106" (WVMX) coming on the air in the late 80's, and the people at Mix 106 were upset because they thought B103 was trying to "steal their thunder". Robert <radio@rmonet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 11:25:09 (EST) On the suject of WRVA,have you noticed that they DID dropped the provocative Phil Hendrie Show(from LA) and replaced it with with the "Faith & Values" based Ian Punnett(he's out of Atlanta).Must be a sign ! walking edncyclopedia USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 09:52:12 (EST) Today is Carla Cash's birthday. Harry USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 19:01:40 (EST) So "Walking" works at 106.5 Cool Radio but isn't Scott Stevens... :) here's where I wish I listened to 106.5 Cool Radio... :) and, changing subjects, when will Cheap Channel be satisfied that it has trashed WRVA's reputation enough? WRVA used to have a Richmond identity... now it's just another generic conservative talker. Too bad. Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 16:47:53 (EST) Another clue to my true ID.Before the Amfm/CC merger I spent a LOT of time at Moorefield.Now that the merger's over,I don't.But I'm still in Radio.Lesse if THAT jogs anybody's memory cell(folks, the answer is right under your nose)By the way,speaking of Channel 6,I've noticed that new reporter Tonya St.Romain,is she HOT or what?(I think out hots Sherri Blanks) walking encyclopedia USA - Saturday, January 06, 2001 at 14:06:22 (EST) My Bad...I botched two statements in that long message...here's what I meant to say...Modern Rock listeners in Richmond DIDN'T take not having The Buzz in Richmond lightly...and...in Norfolf, it should be 93.7 The Coast (not 97.3 The Coast)... No Radio Guru USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 19:09:40 (EST) Just a quick note...WTVR-TV News 6...the website posted is incorrect...WTVR's website is www.wtvr.com or www.richmond.com ... No Radio Guru USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 18:42:59 (EST) Here we go again Richmond...if what has been said becomes reality, Richmond Radio will sink to an even further level than it presently is at...Since B103 shifted it's format to include bands such as Creed, MatchBox Twenty, and even Pat McGee, it has been the number one station preset on my radio... if you have listened over the past few months, they have expanded their playlist to include older, but still popular, music, which has been a good thing!!!(more variety, new concept, but that's what listners like!)...why does Richmond need a third station to play music a la Top 40...Dance Hits 107, the new station at 107.3 FM is already on the air challenging Q94...secondly, if Richmond goes back to having to rely upon XL102 for is modern rock, well my radio at least will never be turned on again to Richmond Stations. 106.5 The Buzz (aka 104.7 The Buzz, WBZU) was a GREAT Station in Richmond and when the plug was pulled on that, Richmond suffered for more than two years without a Modern Rock Station. Now that Y101, 101.1 FM WDYL, has filled the viod, to see it killed and replaced with 80's music would be a tragedy. When The Buzz was replaced with Cool 106.5(Oldies), it was taken lightly by the listeners of WBZU. Listeners were vocal with their desires to have a modern rock station in Richmond...now that there is one here, LEAVE IT. It's frequency isn't that strong so it doesn't have the range 106.5FM has, one reason for the shift from The Buzz to Oldies. RICHMOND NEEDS A MODERN ROCK STATION. B103, when the Buzz signed off (which at the time, B103 was owned by AM/FM which also bought The Buzz, then scrapped it) changed it's slogan to "Richmond's Mondern Music" and began to play some of the songs The Buzz had been playing. Now if B103 moves back to being A LA Q94 and Y101 is killed for '80s music, then once again a key element of music in Richmond will be off the air. Sorry, but XL102 just doesn't do Modern Rock justice on it's airwaves. If all this occurs, maybe the folks down in Norfolk at 96X (WROX, 96.1), 97.3 The Coast, and 94.9 The Point, who sure would get my radio tuned to their stations, will increase their power inorder for us up here in Richmond to hear Modern Rock more often. ... oh and last but not least, at first I thought Walking Encyclopedia was Scott Stevens...I was wrong...I then thought it could be Jon Barry from WMXB B103, since he had info on a possible format change at B103 and the being acquired Cox station Y101, but then read that the person was not heard that frequently on air...so here's another try, Gerret Chester (and I probably mispelled his name), but I know he once worked with Bill Bevins on B103.7 on the morning show before Bill Bevins left and Mike McCarthy took over the AM spot at B103.7. (I must add this as a post script; since Bill Bevins left WMXB B103.7 for WTVR-FM Lite 98, B103.7 has gone through Mike McCarthy in the Morning, Mo and Sally in the Morning, and just recently Jackie and Bender Mornings. Yet look at Bill Bevins, HOME GROWN Talent still around and thriving on air at Lite 98. Local isn't such a bad thing.) No Radio Guru USA - Friday, January 05, 2001 at 01:34:20 (EST) Oh man... hey, "Walking", were you in a position to hear my tapes at B103? If you were, care to send a private comment or two to the Email below (after your identity is revealed, naturally)...? Anyway, it seems we agree about the future of WDYL once Cox gets their hands on it. And I suppose a lot of what happens to B103 depends on who Cox brings in to run it. I don't have any more guesses as to who "Walking" is... :) [waving white flag] Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 21:51:23 (EST) All this "golden days" talk got me remembering ... I became "radio-conscious" around the end of the "golden years" of Richmond radio (the mid to late 70's, when I was about 14). I remember listening to WGOE and thinking how outrageous some the things they did were, and also how stupid some of it was. I have heard that someone from the old GOE was writing a book about their days there, haven't heard of any publication date though. Also, back in around 1980 Q-94 was kinda sorta abandoning their top 40 in favor of more AOR type music, I suppose in an effort to compete with XL. That was in the days when those two took pot shots at each other almost daily. Nothing like that could happen now. That was the sort of thing that made radio interesting... you never knew what you might hear (especially on WGOE) and the "Q" was just as likely to play Led Zeppelin or Lynyrd Skynyrd as XL. Bobba-Lew came in to Q and made the switch back to Top 40, and that's pretty much where they have stayed. One other cool memory ... back in 1987 Q-94 had a class reunion weekend when they brought back almost every jock that ever worked there and gave them each an hour or so to do whatever they wanted. I got almost that whole weekend on tape, some on reel, some on cassette. I will say this about Mr. Encyclopedia, he's probably not as well known to the general public as Scott Stevens or Bill Bevins, but you have heard him on the radio. I don't work in the radio business and I admit that I never would have guessed who it is. Robert <radio@rmonet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 20:30:46 (EST) No I am not Scott Stevens.I don't think Cox will screw with B103 too much,I think they may move it back to a more mainstream approach like they had in the early & mid nineties(in other words hello Insync & Gloria Estephan&,goodbye Creed & Pat McGhee),they've got a franchise with that station.I think you will see an all 80's format come to the newly purchased Y101.Even though Alternative has a good following in Richmond,it's also been proven that it's not a profitable format for this town(in other words:N-O C-A-R D-E-A-L-E-R-S!!!)and all 80's is the current "Hot" format,and I know Cox will jump on an unclaimed frachise if they can,especially if it's aiming after older demos.Personal to Rob:I think one of the reasons you didn't get the weekend gig was that Bender has a champagne appetite &only beer money talent to chose from in Richmond and had been spoiled by the talent pools in Pittsburg(in other words,if you didn't sound like you should be in New York tommorow,forget it).Okay,clue to my identity,I WAS involved in the Clear Channel/AMFM/Cox debacle,right in the middle of it,and I survived.And I've been at EVERY Broadcasters Hall of Fame since the first one since 1993.Okay let's see if that jogs anybody's memory. Walking Encyclopedia USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 18:57:40 (EST) "No Guru" used my guess... I think "Walking" is Scott Stevens. As to "VA Radiopro", WMXB is Cox, not Clear Channel. I stand by my prediction that either "B" or WDYL will flip to '80's oldies by spring. And I guess I missed a lot by moving to Richmond after all those cool radio stations passed on... Anyone have any word on B103's search for a new morning show? They better move fast... interim morning shows tend to lose listeners who want to check out someone else's "real thing" for a day or two... not that Ozone's doing a bad job, just that as long as he keeps referring to himself as the "fill-in" guy, some listeners will sample elsewhere. :) [Necessary disclaimer: I auditioned for a weekend gig with "B" last spring and didn't get it. I still follow them more closely than most Richmond stations.] :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 18:15:42 (EST) I find it interesting all the upheavel going on in Richmond and beyond right now. It seems the heritage stations haven't completely fallen prey to voicetracking, but the situation at MXB is VERY interesting, as well as the WJJS Lynchburg scenario. Both stations are in search of key dayparts. I wonder if Clear Channel will take the opportunity to take one or the other 'KISS'. It would work at B if they once again leaned AC and gave up the fight against RVQ. It would most certainly work as a CHR in Lynchburg. Thoughts? VA Radiopro USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 15:32:55 (EST) Two guesses on who "Walking Encyclopedia is: Scott Stevens, since he did traffic for WKLR, WMXB, WHKH, and WRCL when they all were under AM/FM's control a year or so ago(plus he was night host on WRCL at the time) ... or possibly Bill Bevins. He has worked in Richmond radio for quite a long time, including WXMB and now WTVR-FM ... With Clear Channel, AM/FM, and Cox all either merging/swapping stations etc. over the past year or so, these are two pretty good guesses I think ... on a totally different subject, I'm sorry to say that the new guy WMXB B103 has doing nights just isn't cutting it. B103 definitely has a lot of work cut out for them to rebuild a staff that is hurting at the moment. Besides Jon Barry and the recent dial changer Sherri Blanks, B103 needs something to liven up it's airwaves. (Sorry to see Jackie and Bender leave, especially since they promoted local Richmond bands on their show, who get little if any support from other Richmond Radio stations. Pat McGee's new album was played on stations in North Carolina before it was played here in Richmond, and now only so far B103 has started playing "Rebecca" every once in a while. Rarely if ever is Fighting Gravity given airtime. And up and coming local band, Closure, only was given exposure on Jackie and Bender's show. Maybe those of you working on the Richmond radio scene will look into Closure, www.closure-online.com, and add them to your playlist...hint hint Y101, XL102, B103, Q94. Same goes for Pat Mcgee and Fighting Gravity and all the other local richmond bands who need support from their hometown!!!!) No Radio Guru USA - Thursday, January 04, 2001 at 01:14:32 (EST) For Rob.Lesse if I can answer your question.Golden Age Of Radio in Richmond?I would say we are talking from about 1958 up until around 1980.1958 was the year 1480/WLEE went Top 40 which propelled them into DOMINENCE all the way until 1972 when WRVA-FM changed calls & format to Richmond's First Top 40 FM station WRVQ and pretty much pulled the rug out from under them.Thru the 60's WLEE had all sorts of Top 40 competition,WLLY(which got changed by a WLEE obtained court order to WEET)WEZL,later becoming Top 40 WGOE(which in 1970 became Richmond's FIRST Album Rock station,and by most standards,still is considered the best one we ever had,if they had been on FM instead of AM they would still be around.)WENZ,WMBG(which later adopted the calls of it's TV sister station WTVR,but at one time called themselves W-M-Beatle-G,)even fringe markets tried to get into the Top 40 act,WHAP Hopewell,WSSV Petersburg,and short lived WIVE Ashland & WIKI Chester(which there is an Urban Legend that the KKK knocked down their tower because of the R&B nature of thier programming,& burned a cross in their backyard)and WPVA Petersburg.In the late 60's the Top 40 competition narrowed to WLEE,WTVR(by then calling themselves "Request Radio"),and WGOE.Plus WSSV Petersburg & WHAP Hopewell.Later by 1972,WTVR & WGOE had dropped out of the format,WHAP had gone soft A/C,and the Main CHR stations were WRVQ,WLEE,& in the Tri-Cities WSSV.there were some failed experiments,Like MOR WRNL attempting to do Top 40 with mor jocks(Picture Jim Jacobs trying to sound like Paul Madison).In 1974,East Listening WRXL switched to automated Top 40 as XL102(yes friends they did not start out as a straight ahead rock station,they were automated Top 40 playing Captain & Tennille & Bo Donaldson & the Heywoods,But they DID give Top 40 audiences a different alternative to the talk filled format of the other stations,and I know people who built their singles collections by taping the multi-song no talk segmnts on XL back then).PLUS,it is legend that when WRVQ would get a bad copy of a single,they would "lift" it off the air at XL(Remember they were crostown competitors back then).in 1975 XL started adding "live" segment here and there consisting of more "album rock" segments,which increased in frequency until in 1977 the station evolved into the Live XL we know today.Plus,and I'll have to relate this in another post,the infamous "Led Zeppelin on Christmas Eve"prank in 1976 was the height irreverence that went on in this town around that time.Some of the talent that got started thru this period include Harvey Hudson,Jess Duboy,Ron Brandon,Chuck Deel,Dick Reus,Tom Ogburn,Doug Riddell,Bill James,Shane,Jay August,The late Ken Booton,Terry Jordan,Bob Canada,Bob Summers,Bob Louis,Terry Young,Jim King,Bob McNeil,Tim Watts,Ralph"Dr.Rock"Wimmer,Ron Bates,Russ Brown,David Lee Micheals,Mike Ogburn,Barbara Barri,John Barry,Kevin Conners.Many Others.In my opinion,it all kind of ended in 80 or 81 when the big companies started investing in radio and "consulted" programming became the norm,plus the demise of AM as a viable medium for music.I hope that answers your question. Walking Encyclopedia USA - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at 22:45:39 (EST) Wow. I have an idea of a guess as to who Mr. Encyclopedia (or can I be on a first-name basis and call you "Walking"?) *may* be. But I haven't listened to a lot of stations over the 6 1/2 years I've lived here, and I'm probably wrong. So instead of guessing a name, I'll just wonder out loud if Walking had to choose between stations split by the Cheap Channel-AMFM-Cox shakeout last year... :) Did WMXB ever use the "MX" as an excuse to be "Mix 103"? If not, I'd be amazed... every other "MX" call in the USA has been a "Mix" station at some point, it seems. Finally, a question to Walking and everyone else who's been in town longer than me. Was there a "Golden Age" of Richmond radio, and by how much did I miss it?? :) Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at 21:11:13 (EST) Answering Arthur:No,I'm not scared.If somebody in the know reveals it here,I'll confirm it.I just want to see if any REAL radio people are looking at this site(Robert & a radio co-worker of mine who looks at this site know who I am)If you don't know who I am you ain't a radio guy.I'll give you a clue okay.WKHK,WCDX,WMXB,WRCL,WTVR-FM,&WKLR are stations I've called home at one time or another since 1977.Proof I'm an enclyclopedia:Did you know that at one time 990 & 1320 had thier towers on islands in The James River(Chased out by the massive 1972 floods).Did you know that back in 1969,70,71,& 72,WTVR-AM(1380,now WVBB)was a Top 40 station that employed up & coming talents Bob-A-Lou,Bob Summers,Terry Young?Plus a guy who in the 80's became the last Program Director at WNBC/New York(and the guy who had to fire Howard Stern)Dale Parsons.(he wasn't Pig Vomit,that was the guy before him)96.5 has had the following call letters since it first came on,WBCI,WQKS,WQSF,WDCK,WLEE-FM,& WKLR.The 99.3 frequency came on the air in 1967 as WSSV-FM simulcasting it's then AM/CHR format sister station WSSV/AM(now gospel WGCV).In 1973 it went automated easy listening as WPLZ(music to please,that's where the "PLZ" came from,believe it or not).In 1979 it went Automated Top 40 as "99-Z-FM".In Feb. of 1981 it went Urban as "Magic 99"(and went straight from nothing to 4th place in it's first full Arbitron).103.7 came the air in 1961 as WFMV doing classical,in 1969 it changed calls to WEZS & added a nighttime "progressive rock show" called "Veronica Lake".In 1971 it dumped the Classical & Rock programming and went Easy Listening as Easy 103FM.In 1982 it went Soft AC as EZ104 FM(how many folks out there remember "Four in a Row"?In 1987 the calls were changed to WMXB but the format remained unchanged.In 1990 the format went to uptempo Hot A/C,in 1996 it went to it's present Modern A/C format.And lastly,here are all the Richmond Station's Steve Leonard has appeared on,WHAP/Hopewell,WSSV/Petersburg,The "Original"1480 WLEE(he did Part-time there in 1979 & 1980.Betcha didn't know THAT did you?)WGOE/Richmond(known at the time as GO-16,now gospel WFTH),WEZS/WMXB,WVGO/Oldies 104.7(now Kiss 104),1320 WLEE,and WRCL.Okay,is there anybody out there who has figured out who this is? Walking Encyclopedia USA - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at 19:30:30 (EST) I was in Pennsylvania for Christmas and was able to tune in WRVA to see if Richmond was getting the predicted snow. Alan Price was having a show based on speculating who might be a closet gay. He was encouraging callers to speculate on who might be a surprise gay. Is this what talk radio has come to on the once mighty WRVA? I guess management should be complimented for finding someone who makes Jim Jacobs look like a Mensa intellectual. I suppose there is a demographic that includes rednecks who are longing to get in touch with their "inner adolescent", and finds it entertaining to throw off the shackles of maturity and human dignity. The best thing this guy could do for the conservative political/social movement is to join the ACLU, DNC, and become a flaming yellow dog liberal (or just shut up). Jerry Lund, where are you! Some suggestions for future shows: 1. Celebrity "Pull My Finger" - guess the WRVA on-air personality by the pitch, tone and volume of their flatulence. 2. Nose picking bonanza - flicking for distance. 3. It Pays To Enrich Your Word Power - compile a exhaustive list of nicknames for the female and male anatomy. 4. New contest - belch the alphabet. WRVA is done. It is like a tree with dead roots - only a matter of time until the leaves fall and the tree topples. Don USA - Wednesday, January 03, 2001 at 17:27:14 (EST) Hey Walking Encyclopedia...c'mon are you just plain scared to give out your friggin' name! Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Monday, January 01, 2001 at 22:17:26 (EST) Well,I'll hold back my ID and see if anybody figure's it out(if you have spent any amount of time in this market my true ID is known amoung the veterans.)On the subject of the Beat,nobody has mentioned that Kyla Thomas former AM co-host,Midday Jock,& Promo Dir is now doing traffic reports fot the Cox stations.Is she F/T or P/T for Cox?If she's p/t & holding her breath for another F/T position in this market,somebody needs to tell her LOOK ELSEWHERE(as not in Richmond)!This town's radio stations are VERY provincial,the only possiblity is that they may offer her something @ B103,The Planet,or soon to be purchased Y101.Message to Kyla:This town eats people,trust me,I know what I'm talking about.Don't let it eat you,Rebecca figured that out and split.Oh,I have some more intresting news,guess who has packed his bags & moved back to his old homestead in Kentucky----GARY MICHEALS!!!(I wonder if Little Texas has any frachises down there?).Well folks,have happy new year. Walking Encyclopedia USA - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 10:59:01 (EST) The T-D had a great article about Main Quad's two stations here, WBBT and WJZV. Billy's morning show is alright, but if he had a crew, it would be even better. Hey Walking Encyclopedia, next time you post, give us a full background about yourself. Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Saturday, December 30, 2000 at 02:00:28 (EST) I agree with Rob, "Just say no" to national morning shows ... they should be local. And as for Sherri Blanks, we all know the definition of a consultant, "those who can't do, consult". The press releases that Carla Cash sends me states that she is now employed by Main Quad Communications. They don't say what she does and I've not heard her on the radio. And yes, the "walking encyclopedia" is legit, I've talked to him and know who it is, if he wants to give his name, I'll let him do it. Finally.. I'm glad to see the activity here. I guess it would have started sooner if I hadn't broken the script. Oh well, live and learn. Happy New Year!! Robert <radio@rmonet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 15:57:56 (EST) Well, since you're a "walking encyclopedia", do you know your own name? Or you've gone so far to take legal action to change your name to the Walking Encyclopedia. Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 01:32:03 (EST) Personal to Arthur.If you don't know who I am you either don't work in the Richmond Radio Biz,or if you did we never crossed paths,and nobody you ever worked with knew me.By the way,I remember an Art who once worked at K95,if you are he you do know me.Anybody with legs in this town knows me.P.S--Did anybody catch Sherry Blanks'comment about her displacment from The Planet to B103 on her TV6 Late Night Movie Show last Saturday Night?I heard her say "the Planet consultant said I sounded too much like a Valley Girl".Well,Sherry,I don't agree with that.Maybe a white female Barry White possibly.I always thought she had a real mature "bedroom voice".Wouldn't YOU want to go the bedroom with Sherri? walking encyclopedia USA - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 19:00:27 (EST) GREAT to see Carla Cash, formerly of WRVA, on national tv on the Fox News Channel. I think she's been on a several times this last year and if I'm not mistaken, three times this month alone. Richmond lost a jewel when we lost her. Let's figure out a way to get her back. Harry Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 18:42:03 (EST) GREAT to see Carla Cash, formerly of WRVA, on national tv on the Fox News Channel. I think she's been on a several times this last year and if I'm not mistaken, three times this month alone. Richmond lost a jewel when we lost her. Let's figure out a way to get her back. Harry Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 18:33:10 (EST) God no... the last thing we need are any more syndicated morning shows. Morning shows should be local, not national. Then again, so should radio... but Cheap Channel and Cox don't agree with me, and they have the money to buy radio stations where I don't, so what do I know? :) Rob Hoffmann Richmond, VA USA - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 18:24:55 (EST) (Before I get into my subject, who the hell does this walking encyclopedia come from?) Do anyone think Q should get rid of Wicker and switch to Rick Dees In The Morning? I've heard the West Coast version, and it's hilarious. I've heard a little of the East Coast version, it sucked (at 5am). But by 8am, it was hot. So what does anyone else think? Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 02:15:45 (EST) There is a grass-roots movement afoot to stop the Cheap... er... Clear Channel juggernaut by simply turning off Cheap Channel-owned stations. Why? They're firing ALL their overnight DJs (they're not the only ones, Cox is voicetracking the Planet at night, too) and they are generally big and evil. Anyway, to read about it, hit http://members.aol.com/N0UIHEric/TurnOffClearChannel.html. Cheap... er... Clear Channel stations in Richmond are: XL102, Q94, 106.5 Cool FM, Lite 98, Newsradio 1140, and Sports Radio 910. If I missed one, let me know. :) Rob Rob Hoffmann <robster@primenet.com> Richmond, VA USA - Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 23:57:32 (EST) Let the word be put forth to all who are humble.You thought I wouldn't find it,BUT I DID!You can run, but you cannot hide because THE WALKING RADIO ENCYCLOPEDIA OF RICHMOND has seen this site & this page.May The Ghost of Elvis & Alden have mercy on ALL your souls!!! Walking Encyclopedia USA - Tuesday, December 26, 2000 at 20:12:36 (EST) That Dance Hits 107 station is so confused. They claim not to be an oldies station, but from 6am-7pm they play 75% oldies! During the night show, it's mainly CHR/Rhythmic. They also carries PRN's Ellen K. Rhythm Countdown as well. Arthur <Theavenger5838@yahoo.com> RICHMOND, VA USA - Friday, December 22, 2000 at 04:48:57 (EST) Cool page!!! Rob USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 12:55:10 (EST)

Send web page comments to webmaster.