Indiana RadioWatch: August 7, 2013

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Northeast

The FCC approves the West Noble School Corp. donation of WNRL-LP (105.9fm, Ligonier) to the Centro Evangelistico Ebenezer Church in Ligonier. Now, the church must have WNRL back on the air before September 8, or the FCC says the license will disappear.

Eastcentral

One of Ball State's legendary Radio and TV professors passed away. Dr. Darrell E. Wible passed away on Sunday at age 88.

In 1949, Dr. Wible began his broadcasting career at WBIW in Bedford and moved on two years later to Terre Haute and the sports director job at WBOW (then on 1230am).

Dr. Wible later moved to WTHI in Terre Haute, working through the sports director, news director and director of radio.

In 1955, Dr. Wible began broadcasting from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway; the first time Terre Haute radio heard a broadcast from the legendary automobile track.

Dr. Wible received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University and joined Ball State University as the first faculty member in its new Center for Radio, Television, and Motion Pictures. Dr. Wible and David Letterman (who singled out Dr. Wible as someone who positively influenced his broadcasting career) worked to create the Letterman Telecommunications Scholarship in 1985. In 1986, Dr. Wible wrote and produced The Burton Story, a documentary about WLBC founder Don Burton. In 1989, Dr. Wible created WCRD, a student run and carrier current radio station (now broadcast on WWHI 91.3fm, Muncie). Dr. Wible retired from Ball State in 1999. In September 2003, the Indiana Broadcasters Pioneers Hall of Fame inducted Dr. Wible. In 2008, former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels presented The Sagamore of the Wabash award to Dr. Wible.

Funeral services will be Monday August 12 at 11am at The Central Christian Church, 4950 Wabash Ave., Terre Haute, IN 47803. Calling is 10am until 11am, Monday, at the church.

Westcentral

Congratulations to Dr. Jeff McCall and the entire staff at DePauw University's AAA/WGRE (91.5fm, Greencastle). The Princeton Review ranked WGRE second place "Best College Radio Station." For the past nine years, The Princeton Review ranked WGRE #4 or higher. Dr. McCall tells IRW that approximately 200 DePauw students work at WGRE each semester.

Southwest

Western Kentucky University N-T/WKYU (88.9fm Bowling Green, Kentucky) simulcasts its programming on several radio stations, including WKPB (89.5fm, Henderson, Kentucky), as "WKU Public Radio." Their Music Director Lee Scott retires after thirty years (thirty years!) as Music Director. Also, the network remodels its schedule by dropping Marketplace Money and Sunday Baroque. Replacement programming are repeats of "This American Life" and "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!" During the week, WKPB slots "The Takeaway" from 12pm until 1pm and "Here and Now" from 1pm until 3pm.

Radio Spotlight

Name: Gene Kuntz
Job Title(s): GM
Station(s): WITZ(AM), WITZ-FM, WQKZ-FM
Market(s): Jasper
Owner: Japser on the Air, Inc.

Who were your early DJ or radio station influences? (Perhaps what lead you to "catch the radio bug."?)

Growing up in Brookville, Indiana I listened to Larry Lujack, Don Imus and John "Records" Landecker on WLS on my car radio. Fred Heckman from WIBC and Jim Scott at WSAI in Cincinnati were also influencers.

If you had such a thing as a "typical day," please tell us about yours?

Really there are no typical days in radio. I usually arrive about 7:30am and check emails and get ready for appointments. In addition to being GM I also still service the accounts I had when I was Sales & Operations Manager. I sell, write and record copy and even do live remotes on occasion. I check both AM and FM transmitters daily since they are on-sight making sure everything is working properly. Lots of questions to answer all day long from the rest of the staff.

Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?

The support of my wife and staff.

How did you first get started at WITZ and WQKZ?

When I graduated from Vincennes University in 1975 I worked for a few months in Greencastle, Indiana at WXTA. I moved to WAMW and WFML in Washington, Indiana where I worked for a year and 3 months. A fellow student at V.U. was working at WITZ and asked me to apply for the job. 36 years later I'm still here. Started out as 7PM-Midnight announcer, moved to PD then Sales & Operations Manager, before becoming GM after the death of my boss and mentor Earl Metzger.

How have WITZ and WQKZ grown under your leadership?

We put WQKZ on the air 15 years ago as a brand new station. Earl told me to take it and run with it, and that's what I did. We keep everything extremely local covering local high school sports and local news. Sales are good. We finished the fiscal year ahead of last year and have done so for the last two years that I have been GM. I handled a lot of the day-to-day duties when I was Sales Mgr. & Operations Manager, so I was familiar with equipment and sales. The other GM duties took a little time to get adjusted to.

How would you describe the role of WITZ and WQKZ in Japser?

Our listeners depend on us for local news and information and we donate thousands of dollars of public service time each year to non-profit organizations to help promote their fundraising events. Our listeners are very loyal and we appreciate them.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Every day is different. We just completed a complete studio remodel for WITZ-FM and we did it in a week. We also just began streaming. Those two projects have been very exciting for me and the staff. It's very gratifying to see the staff embrace the new changes.

What makes you a unique GM?

I think the fact that I have been here for 36 years coming from an announcer to PD then Sales & Operations Manager, and finally GM gives me a very strong feel for our local community. I am only as good as my staff, which has also been here for many, many years. It's very gratifying not to have to follow up when asking someone to do something. I know it will be done correctly the first time.

What makes your radio market unique?

I think we are like many other small markets. Our community is very progressive and has always done well even during downturns in the economy. We have a very strong manufacturing base in addition to farming. Our local community is also very giving to local charities and fundraising. If you ask they will give.

What was your last radio job?

Before coming to WITZ in 1978, I worked at WAMW and WFML in Washington, Indiana.

What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?

If you didn't know me you might be surprised to know that I am a huge deer and turkey hunter. I also like to fish and love the outdoors.

What's the best advice you'd give to those wanting to get into radio?

If you don't have the passion for it, do something else. It's not about the money!

What's the most important issue in radio today?

Staying on top of changing technology and acquiring new, especially younger listeners.

What's your biggest pet peeve in radio?

In all markets most stations sound the same. There's no creativity by the announcers anymore. I think much of that has been taken away by management or consultants who have made creative personalities into card readers of 10 in a row! Be unique, serve the community and stand out and you will succeed.

Where do you see the radio industry five years from now?

Still being confused on how to take advantage of new technology but I do believe radio will always be strong if we remain local!

Employment Opportunities

WZZY Winchester, Indiana is looking for our next Morning Show host. Not only will you be the morning "voice" of our A/C station but through your work and interaction within the community you'll also be the "face" of the station as well. Plus you'll VT evenings on our winning Adult Top 40 sister FM and do plenty of remotes and appearances on both stations. Even if you've never done Mornings before send along your best. Our former host has been with us for 13 years so we believe in longevity and loyalty. Send along an on-air sample (please keep it short) and resume to rickduncan at g1013 dot com. Or you can mail it to 2301 W. main St. Richmond, IN 47374. Whitewater Broadcasting is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

LIN Media is in search of a Chief Engineer for their Indianapolis market which includes the primary and secondary channels of WISH-TV and WNDY. The Chief Engineer will be instrumental to the current and future operation of the stations and the overall facility, which also includes a centralized master control hub for other LIN stations. Candidates must have experience managing a television broadcast engineering department with a large news operation. A strong background in RF technology, digital, broadcast equipment and IT is required. Other key responsibilities include: Managing all technical equipment: Cameras, servers, transmitters, fleet vehicles, towers, IT equipment. Working with News, and other departments regarding equipment problems as well as taking into account needs both immediate and future. Managing a technical team who can support the Chief Engineer in executing his or her duties. Preparing the market's capital and technical operating budgets. Executing all capital purchases and projects for the market. Developing and directing the implementation of corporate strategic equipment plans, projects, programs, and systems. In times of technical and/or operational crisis, managing and guiding other station employees to a successful outcome, while protecting personnel and hardware. To apply for the above position, send resume to General Manager, at careers at wishtv dot com. No phone calls please. WISH TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO/M-F.

WBCL Radio Network is looking for an energetic, organized and creative person to join the ministry team as Promotions Director. This position will be responsible for supervising and overseeing promotional efforts, contests, interns and volunteers. Person will: work closely with the Development Director to implement strategic promotions that can increase revenue and listenership to WBCL; needs a proven track record in promotions and community involvement; passion for and experience with social media; on-air experience a plus! Details on responsibilities and qualifications listed at wbcl.org. Send resume to Personnel Director, WBCL Radio Network, 1115 W. Rudisill Blvd. Fort Wayne IN 46807 or email to employment at wbcl dot org No phone calls, please. Taylor University Broadcasting, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

89.1 WBOI and 94.1 WBNI public radio in Fort Wayne seeks a Business Development Specialist to secure financial support for our stations. Duties include: prospecting potential program underwriters, preparing proposals for underwriting and event sponsorship, and writing copy to satisfy client needs, FCC regulations and station policies. In collaboration with the General Manager, annual goals will be set for underwriting and sponsorship, as well as monthly targets and weekly activity levels for meeting goals. This position will also assist with on-air fundraising and community promotional activities. The successful candidate will be a self-starter with a track record of developing new business and a demonstrated ability to work independently. College degree or comparable experience, computer literacy, valid driver's license and dependable transportation required. Knowledge of public radio and an understanding of and commitment to its values are highly desirable. Position is salaried, non-commission. Send resume and cover letter to: gmpd at nipr dot fm. No calls, please. Open until filled. WBOI and WBNI are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

WFYI Public Media is accepting applications for a Multi-Platform News/Public Affairs Content Manager. This full time job reports to VP of Interactive Media and Content Strategy. This position is responsible for the creation of policies, practices and the placement of public affairs content on WFYI's multiple content platforms from internal departments and external content providers. Those platforms include wfyi.org (and other future mobile platforms), radio and television. This position will also generate ideas and produce original content for those platforms. You will: Manage the flow of news and public affairs content from internal WFYI departments onto wfyi.org, FM 90.1 and channel 20, manage the flow of content from external sources onto wfyi.org from national organizations including NPR, PBS, and AP, manage the flow of news and public affairs content from local WFYI content partners, develop strong working relationships with relevant WFYI editorial staff and actively participate in creating online elements for special features or packages, assist in oversight of user generated content and communities, including blogs, comments and other opportunities for WFYI visitors to share their views about the topics we cover, design and produce multimedia feature coverage, taking projects from conceptualization to research and development, through pre-production, production, post-production, delivery, evaluation and final report, provide suggestions for home page treatment of material and assist in planning and producing special coverage and live events, work with internal staff to improve the organization's skills for creating interactive content, and conduct Web/Mobile audience research, identify and track key metrics such as traditional pageviews, social media engagement and streaming media to help evaluate the traffic growth and usage of WFYI.org. Qualifications include a college degree, extensive Journalism or news background, knowledge of public media preferred, demonstrated excellence in best practices for writing for the web, editing, copy-editing and headline-writing, good user interface/experience sensibility; able to communicate design/feature ideas to a Web designer or Web developer, and you must have excellent communication skills, and a customer service attitude. To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Human Resources, WFYI Public Media, 1630 Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-1429 on or before August 15, 2013 or email hr at wfyi dot org. Please, no telephone calls or walk-ins. Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting, Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

WFYI Public Media is accepting applications for a Director of Membership. Duties: Responsible to the Vice President of Development for directing the annual giving membership program ($3M revenue budget) including on-air pledge drives, direct mail and telemarketing programs, and for supervising related personnel. Provides leadership to 5 FTE and the Community Ambassador outbound telefundraising program. Specifically responsible for maximizing net revenue for WFYI by: Providing direction and leadership in managing the day-to-day operations of annual giving membership efforts. Directly supervising Membership staff including three managers: On-Air Development, Direct Mail and Telemarketing. Managing online & email, vehicle donation and online auction programs. Analyzing data and information to create successful membership strategies and objectives based upon industry best practices and benchmarks. Preparing annual budgets for membership department. Setting goals for membership solicitation activities such as on-air drives, direct mail, telemarketing, email and other campaigns relating to acquisition, renewal and additional gift revenue. Cooperating with other development & organizational leaders to ensure effective and efficient overall fund raising activities. Assisting in planning and executing cultivation activities and events.

Qualifications: Graduate of four-year, accredited college or university. Must have broad range of experience in fund raising for a minimum of 5 years, preferably in public media. Must have extensive knowledge and experience in personnel management, and working with complex relational databases. Must possess excellent written and oral communications skills. Must be able to deal with internal & external constituents in a professional and courteous manner. The successful candidate will exhibit characteristics of innovation and positive motivational leadership.

To apply, please email cover letter WITH SALARY REQUIREMENTS and resume to: Human Resources, WFYI Public Media, 1630 Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-1429 or email hr at wfyi dot org.

WFYI Public Media is accepting applications for a Community Engagement Coordinator (Temporary, 35 hours a week through January 2014). Reports to Vice President of Community Engagement. Duties: Initiate, support, and assist in planning and evaluating the community engagement strategy, including the American Graduate initiative, interactive PBS Education products, cross-platform education content, Indy Talks, and the Spirit and Place Festival. Help strengthen and support collaborations and partnerships to advance station goals for community engagement. Engage in the planning and execution of special events and conferences. Assist in the gathering and curating of content for the web to meet the online engagement strategy goals. Assist with the planning, content development, and execution of social media strategies. Participate in internal team and station meetings, to plan, promote, create, and secure funds to advance station goals. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: College degree and at least one year experience in a non-profit, collaborative environment. Adept in social media and web skills. Passion for public media. Excellent written, oral, and team communication skills, including attention to detail. Ability to participate in multiple projects and partnerships in a changing environment. Possess strong computer skills, including Office, Excel, and web-based interactive software and applications. Possess initiative, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Hours are weekdays, along with flexible hours during special events and promotional activities. Weekend hours sometimes necessary. To apply, please send cover letter, resume and minimum salary requirements to Human Resources, WFYI Public Media, 1630 Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202-1429 or email hr at wfyi dot org.

Do you like bats, bourbon and basketball?? If so, keep reading. Newly formed Summit Media Group's Louisville cluster is on the hunt for the nation's best talent. We need a morning personality/imaging director for top rated 107-7 The Eagle, Louisville's Classic Hits (WSFR). Prepare to be all live, all local and ready to work - show prep, creative content, production, appearances, social media, concerts and more expected. Main focus on live mornings and imaging. Must be willing to accept coaching. 3 to 5 years on-air experience preferred. Experience imaging Classic Hits, Classic Rock, Hot AC a plus. Excellent pay, benefits and resources. Summit Media Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Send packages to: loujobs at summitmediacorp dot com.

Hoosier AM/FM is seeking an experienced media Account Executive to join the sales team of our four-station cluster in Muncie-Marion, IN. This person will be responsible for prospecting and developing new business as well as growing and maintaining existing accounts. A positive attitude and excellent verbal and written communications skills are a must. This is a full time position. Hoosier AM/FM offers a competitive compensation package including Medical, Dental, Paid Vacations. Minimum education level is High School diploma or equivalent. Resume and letter of introduction are to be sent to indianaradiojobs at yahoo dot com. Hoosier AM/FM is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

That's all for this issue. Thank you for your continued support.

Blaine Thompson
Indiana RadioWatch

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