Date Posted: 1/27/2025
KCRW and the R&S Kayne Foundation held a public information panel and Q-and-A session for families and individuals returning to homes within the immediate vicinity of the fires in Southern California.
Date Posted: 1/10/2024
Audacy Los Angeles station KROQ hosted the 32nd annual Almost Acoustic Christmas concert to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Featuring The Offspring, Garbage, Portugal The Man, Bleachers and more, the show raised $87,552. “KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas once again put an exclamation mark on the end of the year for the Alternative music community,” Jeff Federman, regional president, Audacy Southern California, said. “Thank you to the incredible loyal fans in Southern California and beyond for making this event a success year after year.”
Date Posted: 11/28/2023
Cumulus-owned KMJ in Fresno, Calif., raised $620,000 for the Central California Food Bank during KMJ’s 10th Annual Feeding Families Fund Drive. In the last decade, KMJ’s Feeding Families Fund Drive has raised a total of over $4.4 Million to help feed area families in need through the Central California Food Bank. “Every year this event gets bigger, and every year KMJ listeners respond with jaw-dropping generosity. Our very special thanks to the Musson family at Gar Bennett for their always unbelievable support and 50% match, which puts this drive over the top every year,” said Patty Hixson, regional vice president and market manager, Cumulus Fresno.
Date Posted: 10/13/2023
This Hispanic Heritage Month TEGNA’s CBS 8 in San Diego is “highlighting the people and organizations in our community that are making a difference.” One of those organizations is the Cesar Chavez Service Clubs, which have been helping build leaders in the community for over 20 years. They have also promoted Hispanic-owned businesses as part of their Shop Local 2023 campaign.
Date Posted: 10/17/2022
Fresno, Calif.’s Cumulus-owned KMJ NOW helped raise $656,000 for the Central California Food Bank during the 2022 Feeding Families Fund Drive.
“We are honored and grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of support for the 2022 Feeding Families Fund Drive,” said Karen Musson, managing partner, Gar Bennett, who sponsored the drive. “The generosity of Valley donors through this drive is truly amazing and gives hope to families, seniors and children struggling with food insecurity.”
Date Posted: 3/4/2022
NBC owned-and-operated KNTV San Francisco kicked off a six-part streaming investigative series, “Saving San Francisco,” exploring solutions to deep-rooted issues plaguing the city. The series delves into poverty, crime, homelessness and mental health, problems that can be found in nearly every community across the country.
“’Saving San Francisco’ is the latest in our series of investigations that explore systemic problems in the Bay Area and that offer possible solutions,” says Stephanie Adrouny, KNTV’s VP of news. “The beautiful city of San Francisco has changed drastically over the last few years and we want to contribute to a discussion that will spark change that leads to improving the quality of life for people in San Francisco and the Bay Area.”
Date Posted: 10/13/2021
CUMULUS’s KMJ-FM Fresno recently teamed up with a local agriculture company to raise money for the Central California Food Bank through the "2021 Feeding Families Fund Drive".
Even in the midst of a pandemic, KMJ listeners came through with amazing generosity, donating more than $250,000 to help their neighbors struggling with food insecurity and hunger, which was matched for a total of $506,647 in donations.
Date Posted: 7/27/2021
News-Press & Gazette Company’s ABC affiliate KESQ-TV Palm Springs, Calif., educated their viewers on July 10 about the importance of air conditioning maintenance in order to keep units running all summer, especially during heat waves when air conditioning is a key safety measure. The station interviewed Sebouh Arslanian, owner of AC Blue Conditioning and Heating, who recommended setting thermostats at 79 degrees or higher to keep the unit from overworking, changing the air filter regularly and getting the unit checked by a professional at least once a year to avoid potential damage in the future.
Date Posted: 2/16/2021
Entercom Communications Corporation’s KCBS Radio San Francisco, Calif., discussed the issue of vaccine efficacy during its “Ask an Expert” segment on February 16. Dr. Cody Meissner, professor of pediatrics at Tufts Medical Center and member of the FDA advisory panel on vaccines, answered submitted questions from listeners and discussed the different reported efficacy rate of the Johnson & Johnson one-dose vaccine compared to the two-dose Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Currently under the FDA approval process, Johnson & Johnson reported its one-dose vaccine is 66% protective against moderate to severe cases of COVID-19, compared to Pfizer’s 95% and Moderna’s 94% reported efficacy. "We’re seeing differences reported in the efficacy of different vaccines. But I think the very important point to remember is what we care most about is preventing severe illness, severe complications that result in intensive care admission or death, and I think all of the vaccines that are available are remarkably effective, they’re close to 100 percent in reducing death,” said Dr. Meissner. “All of these vaccines that have been evaluated so far show equal efficacy in preventing very severe disease.”
Date Posted: 1/13/2021
Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV Sacramento investigated the insurrection at the Capitol and conducted interviews with Congress to inform their coverage of the event. Following the attack at the U.S. Capitol, broadcasters spoke with U.S. Reps. John Garamendi, Josh Harder and Ami Bera, who jointly represent the viewing area. The station’s unbiased reporting also featured statements from all other Members of Congress who represent California.
During the interviews, the Congresspeople offered a first-hand account of the day and offered context and comfort to address misinformation being spread about the attack.
Date Posted: 12/14/2020
Alpha Media’s KBAY-FM and KEZR-FM San Jose, Calif., held their annual Holiday Toy Drive on the weekend of December 6 to benefit foster children in Santa Clara County and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).
"We set a very specific goal this year to get a gift for every one of the 600 foster children currently being served by Child Advocates of Silicon Valley," said the stations’ Content Director
Dave Numme.
Listeners donated more than $13,800 worth of toys and additional $4500 to fund the CASA program in Santa Clara County.
Date Posted: 12/5/2020
CUMULUS Media’s Shreveport cluster raised $52,000 for stations’ annual radiothon on December 3 and 4 to benefit Shriners’ Hospital for Children. The KMJJ-FM, KQHN-FM and KRMD-FM radiothon is currently in its second year, and encouraged listeners to donate over the two day period. Children from the hospital
"To be able to partner with such an
amazing and special organization like Shriners Hospital for Children is so important and meaningful to us. We thank our listeners and sponsors for stepping up to help local kids through their generous donations and support," said Jay Michaels, operations manager of CUMULUS Shreveport.
Date Posted: 9/22/2020
Hearst’s KSBW in Salinas, Calif., partnered with the American Red Cross of the Central Coast for a fundraiser on September 22 that raised nearly $141,000 to support wildfire relief efforts on California’s Central Coast. The station promoted the drive throughout the day, including during each edition of KSBW Action News 8. The CZU Lightning Complex fire, River fire, Carmel fire and Dolan fire destroyed nearly 1,600 structures and killed one person as they spread over close to 270,000 acres in Santa Cruz and Monterey County.
“We are honored to have partnered with the American Red Cross to help raise funds for our neighbors who were greatly affected by the wildfires,’” said General Manager Laura Williamson.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to our viewers and community partners for joining us in this endeavor.”
Date Posted: 9/10/2020
Nexstar Broadcasting’s will began broadcasting Fox affiliate KTXL-TV Sacramento’s weekly public affairs program, “Inside California Politics,” on all stations across the state on September 13. The program provides local viewers with concentrated coverage of state, local and national issues, with interviews and original reporting.
“Since it was launched last February in Sacramento, Inside California Politics has developed a loyal following and provided local viewers with up-to-the-minute reporting and a fresh perspective on national, state, and local political issues,” said Tim Busch, president of Nexstar Broadcasting. “Expanding this programming to all of the state’s other major markets is another demonstration of Nexstar’s commitment to providing innovative and impactful local content to the communities we serve.”
Date Posted: 7/30/2020
NBC Bay Area – KNTV – has launched a one-stop shop for reporting and resources related to racial equality. The station has also produced three shows in its “Race in America: The Conversation Continues" we have produced, airing 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. to engage the people of the San Francisco Bay Area in conversation.
Date Posted: 5/5/2020
ABC owned and operated KGO-TV San Francisco aired a one-hour virtual town hall hosted by anchors Ama Daetz and Jobina Fortson on April 30. Morning anchor Kumasi Aaron took audience questions live on Facebook throughout the show. The show focused on addressing the impact disparity of COVID-19 in the African-American community.
Date Posted: 4/26/2020
KCRA Raises $846,000 in Virtual Food Drive Hearst’s NBC affiliate KCRA announced on April 26 that raised more than $846,000 for the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services during a virtual food drive to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services will be able to provide 4.2 million meals with the funds.
Date Posted: 4/21/2020
Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate KSBW-TV Salinas, Calif., raised a record $528,000 on April 20 during a day-long telethon for local food banks. The total is the largest amount raised in a single day by the station.
“Local broadcasters have the unique ability to respond quickly and reach the entire community in a time of crisis. We are honored we can be of service to the Central Coast each day,” said KSBW President and General Manager Joseph W. Heston.
Date Posted: 4/20/2020
Fox owned-and-operated KTVU-TV San Francisco launched televised lessons with San Francisco Unified School District to provide an hour-long education resource for young children engaged in distance learning due to COVID-19. The educational programming will be available in English, Spanish and Cantonese, and provide social-emotional learning opportunities in addition to academic.
“Our first priority as a local news station is to serve the community. KTVU is proud of this partnership which enables us to use our news platform to aid SFUSD in their noble efforts to find unique ways to provide access to critical educational materials for all,” said Mellynda Hartel, senior vice president and general manager of KTVU.
Date Posted: 4/14/2020
iHeartMedia’s KIIS-FM Los Angeles is hosting a “Virtual Prom” on May 1 live on the station’s YouTube channel. The event will feature morning personality Ryan Seacrest and DJs Joe Jonas, Dylan Francis and Loud Luxury. The show will be rebroadcast on air and on the iHeartRadio app later that evening.
Date Posted: 4/2/2020
ABC owned-and-operated KGO-TV San Francisco aired a special town hall, “”Race and Coronavirus: A Bay Area Conversation" on April 2 to confront hate crimes against Asian Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. Viewers were encouraged to submit questions for the interactive town hall. The panel featured experts and prominent members of the Asian American community, including professors from Stanford University, San Francisco State University, Santa Clara county government and the California State Assembly.
Date Posted: 4/1/2020
Bonneville stations in the San Francisco area created "We Got This Bay Area" in late March to shine a light on local businesses who are open for business providing delivery or take out. The stations are promoting businesses through social media and have developed a living list to provide a handy resource for those looking to support community businesses.
Date Posted: 4/1/2020
Bonneville’s KHTK-FM Sacramento, Calif., has teamed up with local partners to deliver nutritionist approved “Ready to Eat” bags to home-bound seniors who are in self-isolation due to COVID-19. The station is promoting the program on social media and encouraging listeners donate funds if possible and nominate seniors who need meals delivered.
Date Posted: 3/26/2020
L.A. radio stations provide continuous information on the COVID-19 pandemic. Listeners also turn to their favorite local stations to feel connected to their communities, as people are working from home and schools are closed.
“What people are looking for even more than music to comfort them is connection, and that’s what they get from the voices and the personalities they know,” said Judy McAlpine, president of USC-owned KUSC-FM.
“Our station motto is ‘Live and Local,’ and that’s what we’re doing,” said Isabel Gonzalez, content and brand director for the Meruelo Group’s KLLI-FM Los Angeles.
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Date Posted: 3/26/2020
iHeartMedia’s KRRL-FM Los Angeles is connecting those in need of services and supplies due to the COVID-19 pandemic with local businesses, non-profits and individuals able to help. The service, set up as a hotline number for people to call, provides essentials like hand sanitizer, toilet paper, medical supplies and even crisis counseling.
"The Cruz Show has recruited some amazing people for our on and off-air efforts, from doctors and therapists to comedians to lift spirits, we are using our airtime to inform, educate and uplift our listeners through this highly disruptive crisis," said Executive Producer Jeff Garcia.
Date Posted: 2/28/2020
Meruelo Media Group’s KLOS-FM Los Angeles raised more than $1 million during the “95.5 KLOS St. Jude Rocks Radiothon,” held February 27 – 28. Hosts from sister stations KPWR-FM, KLLI-FM and KDAY-FM joined in the live broadcast.
“This event once again proves that when it comes to mobilizing a community - nothing is as compelling as radio,” said Meruelo Media President Otto Padron.
Date Posted: 2/22/2020
Momentum Broadcasting’s KJUG-FM, KIOO-FM, KCRZ-FM, and KVMI-FM Porterville, Calif., raised $22,000 on February 21 – 22 after the local library was hit by arson the previous week. Station staff sold t-shirts to raise money to support of the families of the two firefighters who died in the blaze.
“This is the real face of radio, in the community, making connections, and a difference everyone can see, hear, and feel,” said GM Bill Lynch.
Date Posted: 2/20/2020
Fox-owned KTTV Los Angeles held a televised town hall on USC’s campus featuring Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg on February 20, the day after a Democratic presidential debate. Mayor Buttigieg answered questions on issues such as diversity and his midwestern roots. Watch the full town hall, check out KTTV’s behind-the-scenes conversation or listen to audio in podcast form.
Date Posted: 2/1/2020
Cumulus’ KGO-AM San Francisco launched The Morning Show With Nikki Medoro on March 2. The new, locally-produced show replaces the nationally syndicated “Armstrong and Getty Show.”
“Her upbeat and engaging personality makes her the perfect fit to take over mornings on KGO,” said Market Manager Doug Harvill. “She’ll team with veteran news anchor Bret Burkhart to deliver an entertaining, informative, and interactive morning show.”
Date Posted: 1/23/2020
iHeartMedia’s KOST-FM Los Angeles raised over $320,000 to benefit Children’s Hospital Los Angeles during its fourth annual “Giving Tuesday Radiothon,” held on December 3. The 12-hour radiothon, hosted by on-air personality Ellen K, included support from Jamie Lee Curtis, Jonas Brothers, LA Dodgers player Justin Turner, film director and producer Nigel Lythgoe, and Santa Claus. Over the last four years, KOST-FM has helped to raise over $600,000 to benefit CHLA.
Date Posted: 1/3/2020
Cumulus-owned KNBR-AM/FM San Francisco raised over $125,000 with the San Francisco 49ers during the third annual 49ers Foundation Holiday Sports Auction on December 3 and 4. The two-day charity auction was broadcast live and featured 49ers memorabilia and on-air appearances by current 49ers players.
KNBR has partnered with the 49ers Foundation on the auction for three consecutive years, raising more than $300,000 since its inception in 2017. The money raised supports Bay Area youth sports initiatives.
Date Posted: 12/20/2019
NBC-owned KNTV San Francisco produced a five-part investigative series, “Derailed,” that exposes how the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system has become one of the most dangerous in the country. The BART system, which with 723 trains, 122 miles of track and 48 stations, sees more than 420,000 rides every day. Violent crime on BART has more than doubled in recent years. KNTV’s Investigative unit spent months recording on BART trains, interviewing passengers, questioning top BART officials, and analyzing thousands of crime records to discover what has happened to the once well-respected system.
Date Posted: 12/7/2019
Spanish Broadcasting System’s KRZZ-FM San Francisco raised over $490,796 during the 11th annual “La Raza Radiothon” on December 6 and 7 for the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital.
“From the radio leadership to the DJ’s energy to the social media coordination, the success of the event was only made possible by the hard work and dedication from each staff member,” said General Manager Christian De La Cruz. “One hundred percent of the money raised will go back to helping the patients and families at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in Oakland and allow us to care for all children in the Bay Area, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.”
Date Posted: 12/6/2019
KSBW-TV, Hearst’s dual NBC-ABC affiliate in Salinas, Calif., collected $168,820, plus 6,971 pounds of food and 4,855 new toys during its 33rd annual “Share Your Holiday” event, held December 6. KSBW held the event in partnership with the Salvation Army and is part of its Project CommUNITY initiative.
Date Posted: 12/5/2019
Entercom’s KFRG-FM and KXFG-FM Loma Linda, Calif., raised $303,500 to aid the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital during its 19th annual “Stater Bros. Charities K-FROGGERS 4 Kids Radiothon,” held December 4. Proceeds will be used for improvements to rooms, including beds, televisions, sleeper chairs for parents and more. In 19 years, they have raised $6.7 million.
“I am proud of our station’s efforts to work with the hospital to fight against pediatric cancer in our community,” said SVP and Market Manager Michael Valenzuela. “Both my son and K-FROG’s on-air host Heather’s daughter have been treated at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and it is an honor to be able to give back to an institution that means so much to our families.”
Date Posted: 12/3/2019
Bonneville’s KOIT-FM San Francisco raised $110,783 to assist children in the Bay Area on Giving Tuesday, December 3. The donations collected during the second 2nd annual “Cares For Kids Radiothon” benefit UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals, part of the Children’s Miracle Network.
Date Posted: 11/29/2019
American General Media’s KERN-AM Bakersfield, Calif., and host Ralph Bailey presented Honor Flight Kern County with a check for $29,200 to help send 14 local veterans to Washington, D.C., where they will visit memorials honoring their service. The check was presented on Veteran’s Day, November 11.
"Serving our community by engaging our listeners to support such a worthwhile cause is an essential part of all of our radio brands, but especially KERN Radio, as it has been an outlet for news and local concerns of Kern County since 1932,” said Regional Director of Ops and Programming Bob Lewis.
Date Posted: 11/1/2019
Listeners across Los Angeles tuned into local radio for updates as wildfires spread across the region, with one starting on October 24 and another beginning in the early morning hours of October 28. As of October 30, more than 600 acres burned and thousands evacuated their homes. The fire destroyed 12 homes and damaged five more. Local radio stations, including Entercom’s KNX-AM and iHeartMedia’s KFI-AM and KEIB-AM, aired critical safety information, evacuation instructions and interviews with local officials. All three stations saw a sharp uptick in listenership during their coverage. Radio Ink spoke with KNX Program Director Ken Charles in detail about the station’s around-the-clock coverage.
“They are committed to not only telling the story but doing whatever it takes to get the information out to our audience to help save lives,” said Charles.
Date Posted: 10/17/2019
ABC-owned KGO San Francisco and Hearst’s dual NBC-ABC affiliate KSBW Salinas aired special programs on October 17 to mark the 30th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake. The 6.9 magnitude earthquake killed 63 people, caused billions in damage, and altered California’s coastline.
KGO’s commercial-free documentary, “The Earthquake Effect,” featured a never-before-seen aerial view of the entire Hayward Fault using exclusive mapping technology. Experts discussed the impact that a similar earthquake would have today and urged viewers to be prepared.
KSBW’s special newscast, “Loma Prieta: 30 Years Later,” featured seldom-seen footage from that day, including video of KSBW’s live coverage. It also included new interviews from survivors and the stories of first responders.
Date Posted: 2/6/2019
NBC-owned KNTV San Francisco aired a documentary on January 12 about a sex abuse scandal at Presentation High, a private Catholic girl’s school. “Not Words but Deeds” explores allegations that the school covered up nearly 30 years of sexual abuse, with at least 10 alleged victims and seven teachers or staff members accused. KNTV’s Vicky Nguyen was the first to break the story.
“If it weren’t for our investigative team’s reporting, many of these allegations may have never come to light,” said News Director Stephanie Adrouny.
Date Posted: 12/19/2018
iHeartMedia’s KGB-FM, KHTS-FM, KIOZ-FM, KLSD-AM, KMYI-FM, KOGO-AM, and KSSX-FM San Diego raised $263,000 for Rady Children’s Hospital in a radiothon held December 12 - 13.
Date Posted: 12/19/2018
Entercom’s KFRG-FM Riverside, Calif., raised $321,000 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital in its 17th annual “K-FROGGERS 4 Kids Radiothon” on December 5. In total, KFRG has raised $6.7 million to support hospital room improvements, including new beds and sleeper chairs for parents.
Date Posted: 12/19/2018
Hearst’s NBC/ABC affiliate KSBW Salinas, Calif., collected 489 pounds of food, 5,129 toys, and $184,000 in its “Share Your Holiday” event on December 7. In 32 years, KSBW has raised $2.1 million.
Date Posted: 12/6/2018
Hearst’s NBC affiliate KCRA and MyNetworkTV affiliate KQCA-TV Sacramento raised $1.25 million on November 12 to support the Camp Fire wildfire relief efforts. Hearst Corp. donated an additional $500,000. The deadliest fire in California history, the Camp Fire killed 42 people while scorching 125,000 acres and forcing 52,000 people to evacuate their homes. “Our hearts go out to those who lost their homes, property and most sadly, to those who lost loved ones,” said News Director Lori Waldon. “All day long, our phone lines were ringing off the hook. A big thank you to our viewers who reached out to help those in need.”
Date Posted: 12/1/2018
Salem Media’s KRLA-AM Los Angeles partnered with the California Highway Patrol for annual “CHiPs for Kids” toy drive. More than 200 toys and $500 in cash and gift cards were collected.
Date Posted: 12/1/2018
Entercom’s KRXQ-FM Sacramento collected donations on November 13 for families affected by the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. Items included baby food, diapers, clothing, and non-perishable food.
Date Posted: 11/1/2018
Univision-owned KMEX-TV Los Angeles interns created the “Vota Conmigo” (Vote with Me) campaign to increase nonpartisan voter participation in the midterm elections. Univision has adopted the message – that voting together can foster a greater sense of engagement and community - as part of its national campaign to increase Hispanic voter participation.
Date Posted: 10/31/2018
Salem Media’s KTIE-AM “590 the Answer” Los Angeles hosted an “Ask the Candidates” forum on October 10, featuring candidates running for various local offices. Participants included Secretary of State Mark Meuser, Controller Kostantantinos Roditis, Treasurer Candidate Greg Conlon, Congress Candidate Sean Flynn, Kimberlin Brown, Congress candidate Tim Donnelly, Assembly candidates Bill Essayli and Henry Nickel, and Chad Bianco.
Date Posted: 9/30/2018
21st Century Fox announced on August 22 it is donating $1 million to the American Red Cross and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, following the unprecedented natural disasters in 2017 and the deadly wildfires continuing to hit California. The funds support preparedness, relief, and recovery efforts for 2018. Fox will also raise awareness by airing related content during certain fall premieres.
Date Posted: 8/1/2018
Salem Media Group’s KRLA-AM Los Angeles and the Rose Bowl Legacy foundation hosted its second annual “Military Spouse – Day of Pampering” on July 1. They worked with the Bob Hope USO to select 30 military spouses from across Southern California, representing all divisions of the military. The ladies received manicures, massages and a yoga session as well as a gift bag with leggings, jewelry, sunscreen and a KRLA-branded fan.
Date Posted: 8/1/2018
Hearst’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV Sacramento won a Murrow Award in the “Overall Excellence” category for Large Market Television. KCRA provided top-notch coverage of critical events, including the California wildfires and subsequent recovery efforts, emergency conditions at a local power plant and the Las Vegas massacre. They also investigated health hazards at the Sacramento courthouse and high amounts of lead found in water at a local school.
“KCRA 3 has been committed to providing our viewers with the most comprehensive news coverage for more than 60 years,” said President and General Manager Elliott Troshinsky.
Date Posted: 8/1/2018
Heart’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV and MyNetworkTV affiliates Sacramento raised $700,000 for American Red Cross wildfire relief efforts in a day-long telethon held July 31. The deadly Carr Fire destroyed more than 1,000 Northern California homes and businesses. It is the ninth most destructive in California history.
Date Posted: 7/1/2018
Salem Media’s KRLA-AM Los Angeles hosted a crowd of 650 people at its “Ask the Candidate” forum on May 24 at the Nixon Presidential Library. Each of the 32 political candidates in attendance was given a table, where they distributed campaign information to attendees on the various races in which they were participating. Morning show hosts Jennifer Horn and Brian Whitman directed the on-stage program, giving candidates an additional platform. Salem aims to “directly connect listeners with local politicians, giving them a voice in the process!”
Date Posted: 6/30/2018
TEGNA’s ABC affiliate KXTV Sacramento earned its fourth consecutive John Swett Award from the California Teachers Association (CTA) for its “Teacher of the Month” campaign. The award honors individuals, publications, websites, television and radio stations for their outstanding reporting on public education. “The John Swett Award reflects our commitment to quality journalism and our support of this community’s educators,” said General Manager Risa Omega.
Date Posted: 6/1/2018
Amaturo Sonoma Media Group’s KSRO-AM Santa Rosa played an integral role as first informers as wildfires ravished the community last October. Between midnight and 4 a.m., 43 people died and more than 10,000 homes and businesses were destroyed in Sonoma and Napa Counties. Early estimates had over 2,000 people missing. Every staff member in the cluster immediately joined KSRO’s four-person news team for commercial-free coverage across all five stations.
Cell towers melted and utilities crumbled, leaving residents with no electricity, TV or internet. Radio became the sole method of communication. KSRO was the community’s centerpiece for emergency information: FEMA, local fire teams, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s office, Red Cross and other emergency agencies set up remote facilities in the station and parking lot, as KSRO had continuous power via generator.
“All public service agencies KNEW that our airwaves were their quickest and best route to ‘get the word out’ [about] shelters, emergency services, fire-relief, missing persons contact center, etc.,” said KSRO President Michael O’Shea.
A feature length documentary film, “Urban Inferno, The Night Santa Rosa Burned,” was produced by local physician and documentarian Stephen Seager, who wanted to tell the story of that night. The film also chronicles how local radio played a life-saving role in that disaster.
Date Posted: 6/1/2018
Bonneville-operated KBLX-FM San Francisco’s morning “Dream Team” rallied behind local resident LaDonald Griffin and his six children when his wife was killed in March by a drunk driver while visiting family in Jacksonville, Fla. KBLX-FM broadcast live from a local café from 5 – 10 a.m. on May 17, asking listeners to donate to their GOFUNDME account, or provide clothing, gift cards and non-perishable items.
Date Posted: 6/1/2018
Salem Media Group’s KKFS-FM Sacramento collected over 10,000 items in April during their annual drive to gather clothes, shoes, toys, books, personal care items and cash for WEAVE *Women Escaping Violent Environments). The donations arrived at their final locations in time for Mother’s Day. Many listeners who donated expressed their deep appreciation for WEAVE and the free services they provide.
Date Posted: 4/30/2018
Raycom Media’s KSLA-TV launched their year-long partnership with the MLK Health Center and Pharmacy by sponsoring a clinic day at the center on April 24. The station’s participation included a $1,000 donation, air-time to promote the clinic day and an all-day newscast live from the event. The clinic day resulted in the center dispensing $19,000 worth of healthcare and prescriptions to those in need.
MLK Health is a local, grass-roots non-profit that offers free healthcare and prescriptions to families who do not qualify for Medicaid and cannot afford health insurance. The center operates solely on donations.
Date Posted: 4/23/2018
Tribune’s FOX affiliate KSWB-TV San Diego expanded its10 p.m. newscast from 60 to 90 minutes, beginning April 23.
“In 2008, Fox 5 launched 32 hours of local news in San Diego, and in less than 10 years we’ve grown to deliver 56.5 hours of news a week, the most hours of local news in the San Diego market,” said Rich Goldner, KSWB’s vice president and news director. “This expansion reaffirms our pledge to serve our community with the best in local news.”
Date Posted: 4/1/2018
KJLH created the Women’s Health Expo to address the high rates of obesity, heart disease and breast cancer in the African American community. The expo is a daylong interactive event that gives thousands of women access to medical professionals, free health screenings, and vital information needed to maintain a productive and healthy life. For some of the women in the community, the expo is their only opportunity to receive free mammograms, diabetes and blood pressure screenings, and HIV/AIDS testing. The Women’s Health Expo was created 18 years ago in a small church as a resource for women to receive proper health care and has grown to host thousands of women in the Los Angeles and Long Beach Convention Centers.
Date Posted: 3/17/2018
Salem Media Group’s KKFS-FM Sacramento raised $13,000 for Blue Heart International on March 17th during its Ladies Night event, attended by 1,300 women. The sixth consecutive sold-out Ladies Night Out event included inspirational music from recording artist Plumb, comedy by Amy Barnes, food, a photo booth and other vendors. Missy McCall from Blue Heart International spoke about the organization’s efforts to rescue and find homes for trafficked women in Sacramento and surrounding areas.
Date Posted: 2/26/2018
Scripps’ ABC affiliate KGTV-TV San Diego raised more than $1 million, enough for more than four million meals, in a month-long drive held last December. KGTV’s fifth annual “Month of a Million Meals” was held in partnership with Feeding San Diego. “We are so impressed with the generosity of San Diegans,” said General Manager Joel Davis. “They gave so much we more than quadrupled the original goal.”
Date Posted: 1/20/2018
Salem Media Group’s KKLA-FM Los Angeles hosted its third annual “99.5 KKLA Health Fair” in Pasadena on January 20. Over 800 people attended this free event, which included breakfast, healthy snacks, goodie bags, free health screenings, seminars and workshops. This year’s event also featured live fitness demonstrations and cooking classes. The 30 health, wellness and fitness vendors included Huntington Hospital, Humana and United HealthCare.
Date Posted: 1/2/2018
Cumulus’ KFOG-FM, KGO-AM, KNBR-AM, KSAN-FM, KSFO-AM, and KTCT-AM San Francisco announced on January 2nd that they raised $500,000 for the Bay Area Fire Relief Fund, bringing much-needed relief to victims of the massive Northern California wildfires. The stations distributed $150,000 to the American Red Cross, Northern California Chapter; $150,000 to United Way Bay Area; and $200,000 to Redwood Empire Food Bank.
Date Posted: 12/6/2017
Wildfires devastated southern California in early December 2017, with fires spreading to about 31,000 acres in about nine hours. As the fires raged, local radio and television stations provided lifeline coverage of the event. “You could breathe that smoke coming through the air vents. You’d feel like if you were to cough you would be coughing ash,” Traffic Reporter Mark Kono of Tribune’s CW affiliate KTLA told The New York Times. “But if we can get the shot, we’ll do it.” The New York Times further described the harrowing experience of KTLA and Entercom’s KNX-AM reporters here.
Date Posted: 10/16/2017
Hearst’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV and MyNetworkTV affiliate KQCA-TV Sacramento raised more than $900,000 in support of the American Red Cross and its California wildfire relief efforts. Donations came in from thousands of callers and companies in a drive held October 16.
Date Posted: 10/13/2017
Cumulus Media San Francisco launched a text-to-donate wildfire relief fund benefiting Northern California on October 13. The six-station cluster, which includes KFOG-FM, KGO-AM, KNBR-AM, KSAN-FM, KSFO-AM and KNBR-AM, has raised over $250,000 with a goal of $500,000. In addition to the fund, the stations are holding collection events where listeners can donate gift cards and other needed supplies.
Date Posted: 10/6/2017
Lazer Broadcasting’s listeners have donated close to $1 million for Mexico’s earthquake victims, relief for Sonoma County residents affected by the recent wildfires, and support for the hospitals of the Children’s Miracle Network. The company’s 9th annual Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon recently raised more than $750,000. “We are very grateful for all of our listeners’ and clients’ support in the Children’s Miracle Network,” CEO said Alfredo Plascencia. “And, with the unfortunate disasters this year, it really shows the unity of the Hispanic culture.”
Date Posted: 10/6/2017
Entercom’s KRBQ-FM, KOIT-FM, KUFX-FM and KGMZ-FM San Francisco partnered with the Latino Community Foundation to raise money for relief efforts following the September 20 earthquakes in Mexico City. Entercom’s three-week campaign launched October 6 with a live broadcast. All four stations continued to raise funds online, with one hundred percent of proceeds going to local charities.
Date Posted: 8/24/2017
Fox-owned KTVU San Francisco’s investigation, “Mental Hospital Hell” exposed deplorable conditions at the John George Psychiatric Hospital. Hidden camera videos showed patients sleeping and eating on the floor, moaning and crying out for help. The 2016 investigation led to the hospital director’s resignation, the hiring of more staff and a state investigation into reports of violence. Recently, KTVU Executive Producer Simone Aponte, Anchor Ken Wayne, Photographer Videographer Tony Hodrick and News Editor Ron Acker received the American Legion’s Fourth Estate Award for Excellence in Journalism.
Date Posted: 7/4/2017
Salem Media Group’s KRLA-AM Los Angeles partnered with Rose Bowl Legacy on the first “Military Spouse Day of Pampering” on July 4. Twenty women were selected from community nominations and from various local military support groups to attend the day of pampering in the Rose Bowl suites. The ladies received gift bags with lotions, free passes to any show at the Alex Theater, passes to tour the Battleship Iowa, hair products and a yoga mat.
Date Posted: 3/31/2017
Salem Media Group’s KFSH-FM Los Angeles recently received information about Lexi, a local girl in need of a heart transplant. KFSH shared Lexi’s story on-air and via social media. KFSH’s “The Fish Cares Team” also participated in a community event to raise money and support Lexi. Station personnel were thrilled to find out that Lexi will receive a new heart.
Date Posted: 1/27/2017
ABC Radio recently launched a weekly podcast called “No Limits with Rebecca Jarvis.” Jarvis speaks with women in Hollywood, business, technology, fashion, comedy, food, sports and startups about their accomplishments. The first three episodes feature Arianna Huffington; co-founder and former editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post; Wende Zomnir, founding partner of Urban Decay Cosmetics; and actress Danielle Brooks. “Rebecca Jarvis’ No Limits podcast lets listeners learn how success is achieved, whether in business or life, by focusing on a remarkable group of women who inspire and inform with humor and candor,” said ABC Radio Vice President Steve Jones.
Date Posted: 12/28/2016
Hearst’s NBC affiliate KSBW Salinas, Calif. collected a record 15,000 pounds of food and $177,000 in the “Share Your Holiday” drive, held December 9. This was the event’s 30th year.
Date Posted: 11/22/2016
iHeartMedia’s KFI-AM Los Angeles radio talk show host Tim Conway Junior touched the life of 11-year-old caller Jack Chavez. Jack, who lost his father three years ago, called the show because his dad listened when he went in for dialysis. When Jack mentioned spending his birthday with his mom in the hospital because of his congenital heart disease, Conway set up a GoFundMe page to send him to Disney World for his birthday. Within a week, they raised more than $34,000. Besides the birthday of a lifetime, the money will help pay off bills and help Jack go to college, which is something his father always wanted for him.
Date Posted: 11/1/2016
RM Broadcasting’s KPLM-FM Palm Springs, Calif. raised more than $77,000 during its two-day Radiothon on November 1-2. .for Coachella Valley fourth-graders. The money will purchase 400 bicycles, which will be distributed to local students on December 11 along with 400 helmets purchased by Walter Clark Legal Group. Local schools nominated students to receive a bike based on the student’s needs, efforts, sportsmanship, and respect for self, family, teachers and community.
Date Posted: 10/22/2016
News-Press & Gazette’s CBS affiliate KION Monterey Gonzales P.D. promoted the Gonzales Police Department’s participation in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on October 22. The initiative fights prescription drug abuse by removing expired or unused prescription drugs from circulation.
Date Posted: 8/4/2016
Emmis’ KPWR-FM Los Angeles station host J Cruz hosted an open dialogue to address recent violence that has erupted throughout the country. Cruz said, “We wanted to provide a safe place for our listeners to get answers to their questions and give them a platform to discuss what could be done.” Special guests included Rapper The Game, America’s Got Talent host Nick Cannon, KPWR-FM host Yesi Ortiz, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, #BlackLivesMatter organizer and Cal State LA professor Dr. Melina Abdullah and LA Journalist Wendy Carrillo. Rapper The Game, performed a spoken word poem that he wrote with his son that specifically addresses the challenges facing young African Americans. Watch a performance of the poem here.
Date Posted: 7/14/2016
CBS owned-and-operated KOVR-TV Sacramento investigated why grocery store recycling centers were vanishing from the local area. The investigation found that plastic and aluminum prices are falling and with state subsidies not covering the shortfall, more recyclers may close.
Date Posted: 7/14/2016
NBC’s owned-and-operated KNBC-TV Los Angeles investigated valet services that were parking cars at meters, loading zones and emergency lanes instead of rented space lots. The investigation also found that many of the valet companies did not have the required permits to park cars, and some individual valets hadn’t undergone the required background checks to see if they have criminal records and clean driving records.
Date Posted: 7/7/2016
Cumulus Media’s KNBR San Francisco partnered with City National Bank to host “Dinner with a Legend,” a dinner reception with Bay Area sports legends and proceeds benefiting TLC for Kids Sports. TLC is a community outreach program aimed at improving youth sports fields throughout the greater Bay Area so that every child can play on a safe and handicap-accessible field. KNBR hosts three of these events per year. Past legends include Will Clark, Mike Krukow & Duane Kuiper, Jerry West, and Ronnie Lott.
Date Posted: 6/1/2016
ABC-owned KFSN-TV Fresno, Calif. aired “Safe From Scams: Protecting kids from identity theft.” The piece highlights a case of an eight-year-old girl whose social security number was stolen, but her parents did not realize it until she turned 18. By then, she was $15,000 in debt and could not qualify for student loans. It took the family a year to clear her credit.
Date Posted: 6/1/2016
CBS-owned KCBS-TV Los Angeles sparked legislated action after showing that deceased voters cast ballots. Investigative reporter David Goldstein uncovered 265 dead voters in Southern California, of which 215 are in LA County. KCBS showed lawmakers how the station matched voting records from the Secretary of State’s office with death records from the Social Security Administration.
Date Posted: 5/26/2016
CBS Radio’s KCBS-AM San Francisco won the Society of Professional Journalists’ Sigma Delta Chi Award for Best Investigative Reporting in Radio for the five-part series “Unholy Water.” Reporter Doug Sovern exposed the San Francisco Archdiocese for installing an illegal plumbing system at St. Mary’s Cathedral, which poured water on homeless people at night (despite historic droughts) to keep them from sleeping in the cathedral doorways. Sovern’s investigation resulted in action from city building officials and the Archdiocese, who transferred the Bishop to another parish and created new programs for the homeless. The LA Times, Washington Post, BBC and Al Jazeera picked up the story. “We have a sacred trust from the public, and a powerful platform with which to fulfill that trust,” Sovern told Radio Ink. “We were able to shine the spotlight on wrongdoing and get it stopped. That is always the best reward of all.”
Date Posted: 5/12/2016
NBC-owned KNBC-TV Los Angeles investigated how some international airlines may be placing profits over the safety and well-being of their passengers. KNBC reporter Randy Mac found that a Turkish airline failed to provide a refund or work with a Los Angeles resident who wanted to re-book his flight to the Middle East and not stop in Turkey due to State Department travel warnings. In response, a Turkish Air representative told Mac that such warnings do not create a general valid grounds for re-booking or making any other travel arrangements for travelling passengers.
Date Posted: 4/8/2016
Media General’s MyNetworkTV KRON-TV San Francisco will launch a one-hour newscast every night at 10 p.m., starting May 16. KRON will hire additional newsroom staff as part of the expansion. “We are committed to being ‘The Bay Area’s News Station’ and providing this additional coverage is both an important and exciting opportunity,” said Vice President and General Manager Ashley Messina.
Date Posted: 4/4/2016
Three debates for San Diego mayoral candidates have been planned for incumbent Kevin Faulconer, Democrat Ed Harris and Independent Lori Saldaña. The debates are scheduled for April 12 on Univision’s KBNT, May 23 on McKinnon Broadcasting-owned KUSI-TV, and June 3 on NBC-owned KNSD.
Date Posted: 4/4/2016
Hearst’s WBAL-AM and NBC affiliate WBAL-TV Baltimore will simulcast an hour-long debate between six Democratic candidates competing for Baltimore mayor on April 12. The debate will also be streamed live. “WBAL-TV is committed to making sure our viewers are able to make an informed decision at the polls during this important election year,” said General Manager Dan Joerres.
Date Posted: 4/4/2016
iHeartMedia’s KOST-FM Los Angeles’ morning show host Ellen K is partnering with Thrive Causemetics to offer women undergoing cancer treatment complimentary makeovers. KOST-FM’s “Meaningful Makeovers” campaign launched with seven-year old Taylor, who has Ewing’s sarcoma and wants to become a pop singer. KOST-FM’s Meaningful Makeover Squad provided make-up and styling for Taylor’s Parenting OC cover shoot. Taylor joined Ellen K on-air on April 9 to talk about her journey and to premiere her song. “We are thrilled to join KOST and Ellen K in providing our products and makeovers to these women,” said Thrive Causemetics Founder and CEO Karissa Bodner. “This partnership allows us to expand our impact and help more women feel good during such a difficult time.”
Date Posted: 3/5/2016
OTA Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate KMIR Palm Springs, Calif. will add a 4:30 newscast, beginning March 29. “’Where the News Comes First,’ is not just a slogan, it’s our commitment to the Coachella Valley,” said VP and General Manager Gene Steinberg. “By adding a 4:30pm newscast, we’ll be bringing our viewers the latest breaking news in a timelier manner.”
Date Posted: 3/1/2016
NBC’s KNBC-TV Los Angeles aired "Life Connected: Black History Month" on February 13, featuring lesser-known aspects of black history, a Compton-born rapper who teaches kids to read and the story of the first African-American rocket scientist. KNBC also produced public service announcements (PSAs) on Black History Month.
Date Posted: 2/16/2016
CBS-owned KCBS-TV, KCAL-TV and KNX-AM were honored on Jan. 23 with a dozen Golden Mike Awards from the Radio and Television News Association of Southern California, recognizing excellence in local broadcast journalism. KCBS won for David Goldstein’s investigation into water waste at federal facilities and a feature on a California Highway Patrol officer who was hit by a car while on duty. KCAL won for a feature about military veterans finding refuge in caring for sick and injured birds. KNX-AM earned five Golden Mikes for breaking news coverage of an officer-involved shooting and regular features, such as KNX Afternoon News, KNX Traffic on the 5s and KNX Money Hour.
Date Posted: 2/15/2016
Entercom’s KDND-FM Sacramento changed its name to “Sawyer FM” on February 18, in honor of a nine-year-old with terminal cancer. Sawyer loved listening to morning show hosts Gavin, Katie and Jason, but was too sick to visit. KDND played his favorite songs and aired personal messages from artists like Flow Rider. “If we could make him smile just for a little bit, it feels so so good,” Katie said.
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
Hearst’s NBC affiliate KSBW Salinas, Calif. raised a record $177,000, plus 10,000 pounds of food and 7,000 toys, during its 29th annual "KSBW Share Your Holiday" campaign, held December 11.
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
Alpha Media’s KKIQ-FM and KKDV-FM Pleasonton, Calif., collected 1,200 new, unwrapped toys for Sleep Train Foster Kids during the "Wayne Coy’s Toys Radiothon" on December 11, hosted by morning show host Wayne Coy. "This is a great example of ’Live and Local’ radio," said Alpha Media’s Phil D’Angelo. "I couldn’t be prouder of our staff and our community that came together to support Sleep Train’s Foster Kids program."
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
Cumulus Media’s KMJ-AM Fresno, Calif., helped local cancer patient Wilson Odom, whose car had been stolen from his home on November 29. The car was his only means to get to his cancer treaments and was the only transportation for his wife and seven children and grandchildren. Listener Glynn Ward had recently bought a car when morning hosts Matt Otstot and Blake Taylor shared the story on November 30. Instead of selling her old car, she brought it to KMJ for them to donate. Tears streamed down Odom’s cheeks when KMJ delivered the car.
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
E.W. Scripps’ ABC affiliate KGTV San Diego collected 100,000 meals on December 1 in a phone bank for the "Month of a Million Meals" campaign, which runs until December 31. KGTV will host another phone bank on December 15. The drive is coordinated in partnership with Live Well San Diego, Feeding America San Diego and software company ESET. KGTV promoted the drive with the social media hashtag #feedingsandiego. (Watch video.)
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
NBC’s KNTV San Francisco sent news teams to Israel to learn about how they handle water shortages. News segments aired Nov. 2. “Not many TV stations have the vision, let alone the budget, to send an investigative team half way around the world in the hopes of finding solutions to a major problem plaguing its region and, the entire state,” said TVNewsCheck’s Paul Greely.
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
NBC-owned KNBC-TV Los Angeles revealed a cover-up of radioactive waste and toxic chemicals that endangered thousands of kids at a camp. Families claim that camp staff and board members covered up evidence for 65 years. Workers told KNBC’s investigative team that they were ordered to secretly release radioactive gases into the wind. Watch part one and part two of the investigation.
Date Posted: 1/14/2016
Cumulus’ KFOG-FM San Francisco donated $200,000 to Bay Area Food Banks on Nov. 12, which came from the proceeds of last year’s "Live From the Archives 2,." a benefit CD featuring singles from current rock artists. KFOG’s CDs are the biggest single fundraiser for these Bay Area Food Banks: Alameda County Community Food Bank; Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano; Napa Valley Food Bank; Redwood Empire Food Bank; San Francisco-Marin Food Bank; and Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. On Nov. 6, KFOG released its 22nd annual benefit CD "Live from the Archives 22," featuring Train, Michael Franti and Cage the Elephant.
Date Posted: 11/5/2015
NBC owned KNTV-TV San Francisco was honored with a national Emmy Award in the outstanding regional news story category for its investigative series "Inside Sysco: Exposing North America’s Food Sheds." Sysco is the world’s largest food distributor, with annual sales of $48 billion and customers that include schools, hospitals and restaurants all over the world. After KNTV’s investigation exposed Sysco for storing food in unrefrigerated storage sheds, the company was forced to settle a consumer protection lawsuit in California for almost $20 million. (Watch video via TVNewsCheck).
Date Posted: 11/5/2015
Hearst-owned NBC affiliate KCRA-TV Sacramento investigated the slow response time of Mather VA Hospital. Surveillance video shows a local veteran on the ground in pain outside of the emergency room. No one from the hospital came to help, even as his wife pounds on the door. Following the news segment, the hospital fixed the emergency call button and camera feed. (Watch video).
Date Posted: 10/19/2015
Cumulus Media’s KMJ-AM/FM Fresno, Calif., hosted a food drive on August 25 - September 1 that raised more than $73,000 for a local food bank. The station also collected 1,055 lbs. of canned food, 2,810 lbs. of potatoes and 1,000 lbs. of frozen turkeys. Listen to an audio clip from the station broadcast.
Date Posted: 10/19/2015
Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV Sacramento, Calif., raised $1.4 million to support the Red Cross’ wildfire relief efforts during a telethon held September 15. KCRA posted this video, showing a four-year-old donating his birthday money to the firefighters. "I have enough toys," he said.
Date Posted: 9/14/2015
Cumulus Media’s KLOS-FM Los Angeles was recognized by the Los Angeles City Council when the group declared Aug. 8 “95.5 KLOS ‘80s Rock Day.” L.A. City Council President Herb Wesson presented the official proclamation on The Heidi and Frank Show on Aug. 5. “A warm congratulations to KLOS for withstanding the test of time and remaining the preferred rock and roll station for millions of rock music fans,” said Wesson.
Date Posted: 6/4/2015
CBS Radio’s KNX-AM Los Angeles hosted a special series Graduating to Broke on May 14, with two reports an hour from 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. KNX-AM examined the rising, often prohibitive cost of education from pre-school to advanced degrees. As the average college graduate incurs about $30,000 in loans, some experts believe student debt could cause the country’s next financial crisis. Topics included: How competition to get kids into top schools raises costs, whether high-end universities are worth it, why a college education in some countries is free, how today’s kids are asked to bring supplies because schools can’t afford materials, and why a college degree no longer guarantees a good job.
Date Posted: 6/4/2015
Cumulus Media’s KSFO-AM San Francisco raised $136,000 over Memorial Day weekend for the Fisher House Foundation, which provides no-cost housing and support for families of wounded warriors while they receive treatment at military and VA hospitals. The KSFO Morning Show’s live broadcast from the Palo Alto Fisher House on May 22 featured interviews with soldiers and their families who have used Fisher House services. In the past five years, KSFO has raised more than $600,000 for Fisher House.
Date Posted: 3/13/2015
ABC owned-and-operated KGO-TV San Francisco recently aired investigative reports on the Covered California health care program. Thousands of people who signed up for the program last year reported that they could not find a doctor to care for them under their new plan. The California Department of Managed Health Care is now investigating complaints.
Date Posted: 1/20/2015
CBS Radio KNX-AM Los Angeles hosted its 26th Annual CHiPS for KIDS holiday gift drive. From November 28 through Christmas Eve, the community collected new, unwrapped toys for children and teens. Watch the kick-off video here.
Date Posted: 1/20/2015
FOX affiliate KMPH and CW’s affiliate KFRE Fresno, CA partnered Les Schwab for the largest toy drive in the Fresno Valley. They partnered with Poverello House and Transitions Children’s Services to provide gifts for children in need.
Date Posted: 1/20/2015
Lincoln Financial Media’s KSON-FM San Diego, Calif. Annual Cards for Troops set a goal of collecting 10,000 holiday cards for military members stationed abroad. The far surpassed that goal and collected a total of 30,000 cards. The United States Organization, Inc., (USO) a nonprofit that works to benefit troops and their families, distributed the cards. Watch the video here.
Date Posted: 1/13/2015
Hearst Television-owned NBC affiliate KSBW Salinas, Calif. hosted its annual Share Your Holiday drive to benefit the Salvation Army. KSBW collected $161,000 (30 percent more than in 2013), in addition to 10,000 pounds of food and 1,000 toys. "We are humbled by the generosity of our viewers," said KSBW General Manager Joseph Heston. "It’s one thing to profess to want to help others and it’s quite another to step up and actually get it done.”
Date Posted: 12/4/2014
iHeartMedia’s KLAC-AM Los Angeles raised over $170,000 in under 10 hours during its 7th annual Paralyzed Veterans of America Radiothon. Since its inception, the event has raised close to $1 million.
Date Posted: 12/3/2014
Bonneville’s KOIT-FM San Francisco raised $110,783 to assist children in the Bay Area on Giving Tuesday, December 3. The donations collected during the second 2nd annual “Cares For Kids Radiothon” to benefit UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals, part of the Children’s Miracle Network.
Date Posted: 11/20/2014
Salem Communications hosted listener rallies in Dallas, Los Angeles and Chicago to encourage voters to cast their ballots. The rallies were hosted by KSKY-AM Dallas on Oct. 18; KRLA-AM Glendale, Calif. on Oct. 19 (Townhall 2014); and WIND-AM Elk Grove Village, Ill., on Oct. 24-25.
Date Posted: 11/20/2014
NBC owned-and-operated KNTV-TV San Jose, Calif., hosted a debate on Oct. 17 between incumbent U.S. Representative Mike Honda and Democrat Ro Khanna. Honda and Khanna ran in California’s 17th Congressional District.
Date Posted: 10/2/2014
CBS-owned and operated KCAL-TV Los Angeles aired a debate on September 4 between Gov. Jerry Brown and challenger Neel Kashkari. Ratings data indicated it had 83,000 total viewers, surpassing popular shows "Modern Family," "The Simpsons" and "Two and a Half Men."
Date Posted: 10/2/2014
Telemundo is hosting a series of Spanish-language debates in September and October leading up to gubernatorial elections in several states. "We believe it is fundamentally important for our Spanish-language viewers and the Hispanic communities we serve across the country to be actively involved in the discussions that are taking place this election season," said Telemundo Station Group President Manuel Martinez. The debate series and other initiatives on Telemundo-owned stations include:
Date Posted: 9/8/2014
Univision Radio and El Salvador Foundation partnered for a successful Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway event in Winnetka, Calif. on August 9. Univision Radio helped distribute more than 2,000 backpacks and other school supplies to community members and their families.
Date Posted: 9/8/2014
Univision Radio’s KLUV-FM Glendale, Calif., on-air personality Nataly Valenzuela joined the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures mobile dental van in Pico Rivera, Calif. on August 12 to encourage good dental habits at a young age. As part of the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, volunteer dental professionals provided children ages 1-12 with free dental screenings, an oral care "report card" and a take-home kit containing learning materials and Colgate products.
Date Posted: 9/8/2014
When a recent earthquake rocked Napa Valley and the broader San Francisco area overnight, radio broadcasters across the region quickly went into wall-to-wall coverage. CBS Radio’s KCBS-AM San Francisco aired uninterrupted reports with emergency information and developments, while Cumulus Media’s KGO-AM also went wall-to-wall with updates on the damage. TV broadcasters also quickly responded. The San Francisco Chronicle reports CBS-owned KPIX-TV San Francisco carried KCBS-AM coverage until the station could get reporters into the studio for a live broadcast and up to the Napa Valley where the earthquake was felt the strongest. ABC-owned KGO-TV San Francisco quickly brought in their news anchors to provide emergency updates and show images of the damage as it became available.
Date Posted: 8/12/2014
Clear Channel’s KFBK-AM Sacramento recently invited the candidates running for California’s gubernatorial seat to each host the station’s morning talk program. California’s Republican nominee for the seat, Neel Kashkai, accepted the invitation and took calls from local listeners for three hours. KFBK-AM’s Vice President of Programming Ken Charles said the station is waiting to hear back from the Democratic incumbent, Governor Jerry Brown.
Date Posted: 8/11/2014
Univision’s KUVS-TV Sacramento held its annual blood drive, Día de Donar Sangre, in three locations across California on June 6 to benefit BloodSource and the Delta Blood Bank. KUVS-TV provided live coverage throughout the day to drive awareness in the community about the need for blood transfusions and the benefits for transfusion recipients. In total, 2,400 individuals visited one of the three drives to donate blood in Sacramento, Stockton and Modesto.
Date Posted: 6/9/2014
Cumulus Media’s KSFO-AM San Francisco’s morning show with Brian Sussman and Katie Green and weekend talent, Spencer Hughes and Ethan Bearman, held a live broadcast from the Fisher House in Palo Alto during Memorial Day weekend. The three-day fundraiser featured interviews with U.S. military personnel and their families who benefit from the Fisher House Foundation’s services. Throughout the weekend, KSFO-AM raised $111,000 for the organization which supports American veterans, active military and their families.
Date Posted: 5/14/2014
After recognizing the challenges of its listeners in Southern California, Clear Channel’s KHHT-FM staff made a commitment to rebuild, renew and restore their special connection with the local community in 2013. The station’s goal was to go above and beyond audience’s expectations and to serve them with resources that would effectively improve their quality of life through education, information and innovation. KHHT-FM achieved its aim, earning the station a 2014 NAB Crystal Radio Award. Aside from conducting informative, engaging discussions and events on topics that ranged from home ownership and foreclosure recovery to local entrepreneurship and scholarship opportunities, KHHT-FM also contributed thousands of volunteer hours to meaningful charities and dedicated hundreds of valuable on-air programming hours to PSAs for various nonprofit organizations.
Date Posted: 4/13/2014
Univision Los Angeles visited the University of Southern California on March 5 to host the second Feria Prosperidad (Prosperity Fair). An estimated 4,500 people participated in the 55 workshops and seminars that covered topics including financial planning, saving to buy a home and steps to start a small business. Anchor Alejandro Mendoza also co-hosted a town hall discussion with financial expert Julie Stav. Univision Los Angeles later hosted Feria Prosperidad at Cal State University, San Bernardino, on March 22 for a gathering of 2,000 people.
Date Posted: 2/11/2014
Univision Radio Fresno, in partnership with Walgreens, hosted a day of health and fitness for area listeners. At the event, Univision distributed free flu shots and encouraged attendees to stay healthy by exercising in many fun ways like taking a walk or ice-skating at the local mall. In total, 250 flu vaccines were administered during the event at no cost to participants.
Date Posted: 1/10/2014
Univision Los Angeles and the Women’s Leadership Council in LA hosted a two-week suit drive to benefit Homeboy Industries, an organization that is helping young men and women re-enter society and fulfill their motto of "Jobs Not Jails." The campaign collected 1,090 garments and accessories for men and women. These items will provide Homeboy Industries’ trainees with the proper attire for interviews, school enrollment and social occasions. Homeboy Industries serves high-risk, formerly gang-involved men and women with a continuum of free services and programs. It also operates seven social enterprises that serve as job-training sites.
Date Posted: 12/6/2013
CBS Television stations across California responded to the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines by partnering with CBS Radio, CBS Outdoor and the American Red Cross to raise awareness and funds for Typhoon Relief. Through efforts across California, CBS raised more than $700,000 for the Red Cross. CBS stations that participated included KCBS-TV, KCAL-TV and six CBS radio stations in Los Angeles; KPIX-TV, KBCW-TV and the CBS Radio cluster in San Francisco; and KOVR-TV, KMAX-TV and the CBS Radio cluster in Sacramento.
Date Posted: 12/6/2013
CBS Radio’s KROQ-FM Los Angeles teamed with the Red Cross to raise funds for typhoon relief in the Philippines. The station auctioned off ten pairs of Ultimate Experience Packages to its flagship holiday contest extravaganza, the 24th annual Almost Acoustic Christmas at the Shrine Auditorium. The auction raised in excess of $25,000 for the Red Cross.
Date Posted: 11/12/2013
Univision’s KMEX-TV Los Angeles kicked off the fifth annual Univision Education Week 2013 with "Feria de Educación." More than 30,000 people took part in the 40 educational workshops and seminars on topics including planning for college, financial aid opportunities and money-saving tips for college. In addition, KMEX-TV hosted two town halls on the Affordable Care Act and Immigration Reform.
Date Posted: 7/8/2013
Emmis Communication’s KPWR-FM Burbank, CA received California’s Small Business Volunteer Program of the Year. Its All-Star Basketball Team raises approximately $400,000 per year ($2 million to date) for Los Angeles area public schools through the games it plays with high school basketball teams. The schools determine the entrance fee, which averages $3-$10, and keep the proceeds. In-game entertainment has included surprise performances from recording artists such as Justin Bieber and Chris Brown. KPWR-FM staff and celebrity guests volunteer 3,000 hours per year to plan and execute the All-Star Basketball Team’s 80 games at 80 different venues.
Date Posted: 6/7/2013
Hearst-owned KCRA-TV and KQCA-TV Sacramento raised more than $365,000 during its Oklahoma Tornado Relief Drive. The stations aired coverage of the relief efforts and solicited viewer donations during newscasts. The American Red Cross provided a hotline and text-to-give campaign to receive donations. "Sacramento may be hundreds of miles from Oklahoma, but the devastation and the stories of heroism touched us all," said Lori Waldon, KCRA news director. "We are overwhelmed by the viewer response and generosity to our Oklahoma Tornado Relief Drive."
Date Posted: 6/7/2013
ABC-owned KABC-TV Los Angeles, with the Orange County and Los Angeles Chapters of the American Red Cross, raised $445,000 for Oklahoma tornado victims during The Tornado Relief Drive on May 22. The event featured several on-air personalities and collected $410,000 in one day, in addition to $35,000 in mail-in donations. "Time after time, we have seen the people of Southern California come together in a time of need, no matter where the need is, and we are grateful to them for their generosity," said Arnold J. Kleiner, president-GM of KABC-TV.
Date Posted: 5/10/2013
The E.W. Scripps Company’s KERO-TV and KZKC-TV Bakersfield, CA collected 41,550 pounds of food during the Stuff the Bus Food Drive, setting an event record. The event garnered 37,778 pounds last year and about 35,000 pounds in 2011. All donations benefit the Community Action Partnership of Kern Food Bank. Local radio stations aired PSAs and broadcast live from the event.
Date Posted: 5/10/2013
CBS Radio’s KROQ-FM Los Angeles’ Host Gene "Bean" Baxter, station engineer Scott Mason and KROQ listeners participated in the "Donate Life Run/Walk" on April 27th as "Team Bean." Bean donated his kidney to Scott last November after the organ failed. Bean set a team goal to raise $350,000 for the OneLegacy Foundation, which ensures more people receive successful transplants in less time and honors the organ and tissue donors.
Newport Television’s KPGE-TV Fresno is gearing up for its second annual CBS47 On Your Side Collection Drive & Book Sale benefiting 35 Fresno County libraries. Viewers will be invited to drive to the station to drop off new and used books on August 8. After the collection drive, a public book sale will be held to raise money for the local libraries. Proceeds will benefit the libraries’ reading and literacy programs. Last year KPGE-TV reporters and anchors broadcast live outside the station and received nearly 180,000 books.
Radio Disney recently announced its stations, which are located in 31 markets, will work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for its first annual Back to School Drive. The Disney stations will host local events through September 15 and encourage attendees to donate school supplies, particularly pre-packaged pens, pencils, markers, crayons and chalk, which will be provided to local Boys & Girls Clubs.
Cumulus Media’s KLOS-FM Los Angeles held the 31st Annual Blood Drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. KLOS-FM’s drive is believed to be the nation’s largest media supported blood donation event, with five counties and 25 sites. KLOS-FM collected 9,681 blood products. "Our reserves were depleted, and we were facing challenges brought on by a national summer shortage,” said Red Cross/Southern California CEO Cliff Numark. “The Red Cross appreciates the thousands of KLOS listeners and donors who participated in this life-saving effort.”
ABC-owned KFSN-TV Fresno held the 25th Annual Pint for Pint Blood Drive this month. KFSN-TV anchors and reporters broadcast live from the Jenny Eller Donor Center in Northwest Fresno for two days as blood donors came to donate a pint of their blood and in turn, earn a spint of free ice cream. Since the program started 25 years ago, 23,427 donors have participated. Donations go to the Central California Blood Center, which is the sole provider of blood and blood products for 31 local hospitals.
"The Simpsons" creator Matt Groening donated $500,000 to the University of California, Los Angeles. The artist and creator of the long-running animated FOX series will be the namesake of the Matt Groening Chair in Animation at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. The endowment will "allow visiting master artists to teach classes" and "bring working professionals with wide-ranging expertise" to work with students. Matt gives an annual gift of $50,000 to UCLA to support students who create short animated films with socially conscious themes.
Lincoln Financial Media’s KSON-FM San Diego hosted a blood drive to benefit the San Diego Blood Bank. The first 97 donors received a free ski lift ticket. All donors could opt for a free bone marrow test.
"Donating blood is that one more gift that people can give this holiday season that will really make a difference in someone’s life," said Lynn Stedd, San Diego Blood Bank spokesperson. "We appreciate KSON for helping us spread the word about the importance of giving blood on a regular basis."
CBS Radio’s KCBS-AM and KFRC-FM San Francisco, with sponsor CSE Insurance, staged a cooking competition to raise money for firefighters. Three teams led by celebrity chefs competed at Lafitte Restaurant.
CSE and the Los Angeles Fireman’s Credit Union and Firefighter Insurance Services donated $10,000 to the California Fire Foundation and Fire Family Foundation on behalf of the winners and $2,000 in the name of the runners-up.
CBS-owned KCBS-AM’s "Foodie Chap" and CBS’s KPIX-TV host Liam Mayclem emceed the event. State Senators Mark Leno and Leland Yee attended.
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s Los Angeles stations, KIIS-FM and MYFM-FM, announced Coldplay will perform live at a special iHeartRadio Benefit Concert on February 8 to support two local charities, A Place Called Home and Youth Mentoring Connection. “It’s a special scenario for the Los Angeles radio stations and iHeartRadio to have an opportunity to collaborate with Coldplay to support the work of two great local organizations that directly impact the LA community,” said Senior VP of Programming, John Ivey. “Coldplay in this intimate setting will be an amazing experience for the audience, plus concert-goers will be helping support LA’s at-risk youth.” A Place Called Home is a safe haven in South Central Los Angeles where underserved youth are empowered to take ownership of the quality and direction of their lives through programs in education, arts and well-being; and are inspired to make a meaningful difference in their community and the world. Additionally, Youth Mentoring Connection awakens at-risk youth to their power, unique gifts and purpose by matching them with caring adult mentors and placing that “match” within a structured group dynamic that provides the resources youth need to reach productive, conscious adulthood.
Bringing together its community in the true holiday spirit, KSBW-TV in Salinas, Calif., partnered with The Salvation Army for its 23rd annual “Share Your Holiday” telethon. The seven-hour live-broadcast fundraiser is a celebration; local musicians perform, school children are interviewed on the air, and neighbors drop off food, toys, clothing and blankets for those less fortunate. This year, cash donations surpassed $100,000 for the fifth year in a row, and more than 18,000 pounds of food and 7,000 new toys were collected at six drop-off locations throughout the area. “The need for ‘Share Your Holiday’ this year was greater than ever, and our Central Coast viewers came through once again. To me, this exemplifies the best of what local television can do: We can only present the message and ask for support; it is our loyal viewers who hear of the need and rally to respond to help the Salvation Army aid local families in need,” said General Manager Joseph Heston, who agreed to shave off his mustache during the telethon in exchange for an anonymous $10,000 donation to The Salvation Army.
When Annie Leinen, a local firefighter’s wife, was suddenly diagnosed with stage 4 cancer while pregnant with her third child, KOLA-FM and KCAL-FM in Redlands, Calif., worked to support her family in any way possible. Together with the Redlands Professional Firefighters Association, the stations hosted a 13-hour on-air fundraiser to help pay for treatment, much of which was not covered by insurance. At the event, which raised nearly $60,000, station personalities and firefighters handed out T-shirts, ribbons and buttons in exchange for donations. In the months following the event, baby Colton was born 12 weeks premature, and tragically, Leinen passed away two months later. Throughout the heartbreak, the stations continued to ask listeners to band together and support the family. Through a dedicated page on the stations’ Web sites, the community is able to donate funds and leave messages of support, which has led to an unbelievable outpouring that is still underway.
To make sure those in need had a meal on Thanksgiving Day, KDUV-FM in Visalia, Calif., hosted its annual “T-Shirts for Turkeys” drive. To get listeners involved, the station gave away a KDUV T-shirt for each frozen turkey donated. By the end of the campaign, more than 300 birds had been collected and distributed to missions throughout the San Joaquin Valley for their community Thanksgiving meals. In addition to a heavy schedule of recorded and live announcements about the effort, KDUV teamed up with recording artists, such as Kutless, Natalie Grant and Jeremy Camp, to set up donation sites in tandem with live concerts. The station got word out through e-mail blasts, Facebook and Twitter, and station personalities broadcast live from the events. In addition to the frozen turkey donations made by listeners, KDUV made a cash donation to The Salvation Army to help provide additional meals on Thanksgiving Day. As part of its commitment to the community, KDUV donates 10 percent of its earnings annually to charity.
Keeping Southern California families fed, KFI-AM in Los Angeles, Calif., conducted its annual Operation Feed our Families Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army. The 17-hour event raised more than 46,000 pounds of food and $122,000 in cash donations. The collected items were distributed to families down on their luck throughout the 2008 holiday season. The station’s on-air personalities took shifts hosting the radiothon and the station continued to accept donations once the radio drive ended in hopes to collect even more donations.
Spreading holiday cheer, KGO-AM in San Francisco, Calif., asked listeners to participate in its “Believe” campaign by sending in letters and emails to the “KGO Radio Santa” about themselves or someone they knew who was struggling to buy something they needed and couldn’t afford. Throughout the month of December, the station’s KGO Radio Santa responded to these letters by giving gifts of up to $1,000, which included keeping the power on for a single mom and her five children by paying their electric bill, helping a mother to visit her son in the military before he was deployed and providing a woman with a co-payment for her cancer treatment. "These folks would have gone without this season because the resources are just not there for them," said KGO Programming Director and Santa Jack Swanson. "KGO Radio feels unbelievably fortunate to be able to give back in this way."
KFRG-FM in San Bernardino, Calif., helped provide local fourth graders in need with 1,100 brand new bikes. Teachers from San Bernardino, Riverside, Inyo and Mono counties nominated students in need who were considered outstanding classroom role models. The bike donations were part of the seventh annual Slater Bros. Charities and KFRG-FM radiothon, held every year to elicit donations from radio listeners to benefit the local children’s hospital. With every $200 donation that a radio listener made, a new bike was donated to a deserving fourth grade student. The students received the bikes at an event held at the city’s baseball stadium where friends and family watched as the fourth graders ran onto the field to get their new bikes.
At the third annual "Pat’s Run," KBAY-FM in San Jose, Calif., and a crowd of 6,000 celebrated the life of Pat Tillman, an NFL player who left the game to serve our country and was killed in Afghanistan. Each year, the event pays tribute to the Army Ranger, while raising money for the Pat Tillman Foundation, a nonprofit started by Tillman’s family and friends to inspire people to make positive changes in themselves and the world. The station starts promotions for the race six weeks beforehand, and each year, participation has grown. This year, the station also aired a live remote from the Almanden Valley prior to event day, where listeners were able to register for the race. The general manager and several on-air personalities ran the course, and the "Sam and Lissa Morning Show" helped kick off the festivities. By the time the final participates crossed the 42-yardline of Pat Tillman Stadium at Leland High School, where a young Tillman took the field, $200,000 had been raised for San Jose students accepted into the foundation’s Leadership Through Action program, which aims to help exceptional scholars develop leadership skills.
Whether it’s a tip on how to wear a bike helmet properly or encouragement to stand up and tell the truth, KUSI-TV in San Diego, Calif., has dedicated a regular public service announcement (PSA) series to its youngest audience. The station’s "Tips for Kids" campaign provides advice on an array of topics and airs each Saturday during the station’s children’s programming. In addition to tips featuring KUSI news anchors and reporters, this year the station gave kids the opportunity to share tips with their fellow youngsters by inviting all first- through sixth-grade teachers in the county to write PSAs with their classes. Morning meteorologist Renee Kohn, accompanied by a camera person, visited each school to record the announcements. During these classroom visits, the children also appeared live on "Good Morning San Diego," where they were able to pass along their tips to the many adults tuned in throughout the viewing area.
Southern California beaches received a pre-summertime "Big Beach Clean-up" thanks to KBIG-FM in Burbank, Calif. The station organized a three-beach cleaning effort to pick up trash littering the coastline. Inspired by a desire to take responsibility for the environment and make local beaches a safe place for children to play, the station ran 15-second announcements starting two weeks prior to the event and gave live mentions during its morning show. KBIG committed more than 30 hours to the project, highlighted it on the station’s Web site, dedicated a Web page for volunteers to sign up, and sent information about the clean-up in the station’s weekly newsletter, which reaches more than 33,000 listeners. The station focused efforts on the well-known Huntington State Beach, Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve and Alamitos Beach, where in addition to picking up garbage, volunteers collected bottles and cans for recycling. KBIG was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.
KTSF-TV in San Francisco, Calif., produced public service announcements (PSAs) in five languages to inform new immigrant job seekers about Upwardly Global, a non-profit organization that helps immigrants find professional jobs. The PSAs, which are airing in Arabic, Tagalog, English, Cantonese and Mandarin, are broadcast nine times each week to the 1.4 million Asian-Americans throughout 10 Bay Area counties KTSF serves. Upwardly Global has seen a direct correlation between the number of applicants for its services and the station’s on-air support. "The challenge is getting word out to this group that we are here to help," said Outreach Coordinator of Upwardly Global Francie Genz. "The airing of the announcements during different ethnic programming has dramatically helped." The station has committed to a year-long campaign in support of Upwardly Global’s effort to help immigrant professionals rebuild their careers.
Twenty-five school music programs were the focus of the week-long "Save School Music Week" produced and sponsored by classical music station KDFC-FM in San Francisco, Calif. The annual effort includes a series of classical commuter concerts where youth ensembles perform a variety of works in high-traffic areas. The concerts help kick off a week of on-air encouragement for listeners to support school music programs throughout the Bay Area. The station dedicates 60-second promotional announcements, live mentions, live testimonials and a page on the station Web site to the campaign. For its 2008 effort, KDFC also hosted a listener contest where twice each day for five days the 12th caller won the opportunity to designate a school music program as the recipient of a $1,500 donation from KDFC. In total, the station gave $15,000 to 10 school programs. "Save School Music Week" is just one of several KDFC programs that support local music and arts programs. The station’s efforts also have helped support the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art as well as programs featuring the nation’s top young classical musicians.
In a year that proved difficult for the coastal search and rescue teams, which were called out for water rescues more times than in any previous year, KOZT-FM in Fort Bragg, Calif., did its part to improve safety by airing a series of advisories on fishing, diving and beach activity dangers. The mini-programs were produced in partnership with the Ocean Safety Coalition and aired four times a day during tourist, abalone and sport fishing seasons. KOZT provided the segments to other radio stations at no charge. In a related safety-awareness effort, the station was a sponsor of a community "Disaster Preparedness Day," where station staff, first responders and personnel from county emergency services invited listeners to learn how to prepare and cope with natural disasters. In addition to promoting the event with public service announcements, the station aired remote broadcast segments and updates from the event throughout the day. More than 500 people took home newly developed emergency plans and skills to keep their families safe in the case of an emergency. KOZT was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.
To give in-depth coverage to green issues in the bay area, KGO-AM in San Francisco, Calif., launched "Tune In To Your Planet." The ongoing reports have covered the California water crisis, "environmental cops" tasked with enforcing pollution laws in the area, local firms offering bonuses to employees who purchase hybrid cars, a new ocean research center in Monterey and San Francisco’s plan to put more green taxis on the streets. As part of the initiative, the station also brought the color of the holiday season in focus with its second "Green Christmas" series, which explored earth-friendly ways to celebrate. Energy efficient lighting, green gifts and tree recycling were among the highlights of the series. Taking its efforts beyond reporting, KGO plans to become the first major broadcast media outlet in the state to harness the power of the sun. Solar panels are being installed by its broadcast tower. Listeners have been invited to celebrate the progress through a "solar blog" on the station’s Web site, where podcasts of "Tune In To Your Planet" are also available. KGO was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.
More than 6,000 students were "Rowdy About Reading" last year thanks to KUZZ-FM of Bakersfield, California. The community-wide, three-month program promotes literacy and teamwork for area elementary school children. The station was able to help recruit 250 teachers, athletes from Cal State University of Bakersfield (CSUB) and its own on-air personalities to visit classrooms to discuss the important benefits of literacy and reading. In the program, students competed for prizes from the CSUB Spirit Store, and the classroom that read the most books had the opportunity to join KUZZ in the station’s suite at Rabobank Arena for a CSUB basketball game. The program, which grew 15 percent from the year before, received heavy on-air promotional support and hours of staff work. KUZZ was awarded the National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Radio Award in 2008.
When wildfires in the southern part of the state devastated more than a thousand homes and burned hundreds of thousands of acres, KABC-AM in Los Angeles, Calif., immediately responded to the crisis, partnering with sister station KLOS-FM and KABC-TV to organize the first media relief fundraiser. The "drive-by" event was held at three separate locations on one day. On-air personalities greeted and interviewed donors at their cars during the 14-hour live broadcast. The KABC Web site linked to all area Red Cross chapters and the National American Red Cross set up a special link on the KABC Web site so listeners could donate any time of day or night. Station staff gave 288 hours to the effort, which raised $4.5 million from individual and corporate sponsors for the victims of the fire. "As the first of our media partners to recognize the immediate need to help affected families, KABC served as the catalyst to jumpstart a series of collaborative fund drives," said Paul Schulz , chief executive officer of the Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles, in a letter to the station. "In addition to collecting funds, KABC played an integral role in helping us tell the Red Cross story, communicating to victims and the public." KABC was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.
For the third year, KYXY-FM in San Diego, Calif., broadcast live from the local American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk” in Balboa Park. More than 18,000 people gathered that Sunday morning, raising $1.5 million in funds for the treatment, prevention, early detection and research of breast cancer. The event was promoted during the previous 30 days with 200 recorded and live promotional announcements; four inclusions in KYXY’s e-newsletter, which reaches a subscription base of 30,000 readers; and two live interviews with organizers and team captains the week before the walk. The two-hour live on-site broadcast aired during the station’s public affairs program “Concerning San Diego.” KYXY was honored by the American Cancer Society with a Media Circle of Hope award in 2007.
For two decades, KCRA-TV in Sacramento, Calif. has inspired children to help those in need with its "KCRA 3 Kids Can" food drive. From mid-October to mid-November each year, students from 400 elementary, junior high and senior high schools engage in a friendly competition to see who can collect the most non-perishable food items. The food donated serves more than 40 food banks and community service agencies in 13 counties. The station begins its support with announcements inviting schools to participate, which is followed by reminders to the community to donate. An all-day kick-off event is hosted by KCRA anchors, reporters and meteorologists, and includes a one-hour live broadcast. Throughout the month-long campaign, news coverage spotlights kids who have gone above and beyond. Each year, the kid-powered effort stocks the shelves of area food banks for as long as six months. In 2007, the "KCRA 3 Kids Can" drive provided 810,000 meals.
Morning show hosts Mark and Brian from KLOS-FM in Los Angeles, Calif., have been helping homeless animals find permanent addresses for the past decade with their annual pet adoption event. The day of the 2007 "Mark & Brian Pet Adoption," a six-hour remote from the Long Beach Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals allowed KLOS on-air personalities to interview new pet parents and encourage other listeners to come and adopt. In addition, the event provided information on good pet care and raised funds for the KLOS Spay and Neuter Fund through merchandise sales, including pet emergency kits and "Mark & Brian" pet and people bandanas. During the five weeks leading up to adoption day, the station aired more than 450 public service announcements. During the "Mark & Brian Show," pet experts were interviewed, and listeners who had adopted at previous adoption events called in to encourage others to do the same. The station’s public affairs show "Spotlight on the Community" featured a one-hour special with the director of the SPCA Los Angeles. The hard work paid off. The event reached its goal of helping alleviate shelter overcrowding when more than 300 cats, dogs, kittens and puppies went home with new families and $10,000 was raised for the KLOS Spay & Neuter Fund.
Clear Channel’s Fresno, Calif. soft rock station KSOF-FM and country station KHGE-FM collected celebrity autographed bras for an auction held on October 21. The station has already collected autographed bras from Maroon 5, Bret Michaels, and Michael Buble and more. The auction will benefit the Susan G Komen Foundation, an organization which supports education and research related to breast cancer.
Fisher Communications Inc., in partnership with the Red Cross, launched a fundraising campaign to help the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan via Fisher’s television, radio and online media properties across six markets and all of the company’s online and mobile platforms. To date, the company has collected more than $550,000 in funds that will support the Red Cross’ relief work and other disaster management experts to continue to deliver food, shelter and emotional support to those in need in Japan. Randy Hutson, CEO of Seattle Red Cross said, "The fundraising effort launched between the Red Cross and Fisher Communications is one of the most successful I’ve seen during my time with the Red Cross. The idea was created and launched within days of the disaster and the amazing work of both Fisher’s staff and Red Cross volunteers made it happen! The multi-faceted nature of the campaign enabled us to reach people not only through television, but radio and the Internet, providing a lot of flexibility for the general public."
McKinnon Broadcasting-owned KUSI-TV San Diego, Calif., recently launched an outreach initiative to address drug abuse and the addictive prescription medication, Oxycontin. In 2007, 5.2 million kids reported using prescription drugs, while most of their parents were unaware. To combat this growing number, KUSI-TV developed a series of reports and a two-hour news special that explored the ways Oxycontin hurts individuals, families and communities. Station anchors, Allen Denton and Sandra Maas, hosted the eye-opening documentary which included numerous personal testimonials, a live help line for viewers and information for parents and teens to obtain help in fighting addiction.
Clear Channel’s Fresno, California soft rock station KSOF 98.9-FM and country station KHGE 102.9-FM are collecting celebrity autographed bras for an auction they will hold on October 21. The station has already collected autographed bras from Maroon 5, Bret Michaels, and Michael Buble and more. The auction will benefit the Susan G Komen Foundation, an organization which supports education and research related to breast cancer.
Entravision Communications Corporation raised $1,242,032.40 during its 3rd annual "Para los Ninos" radiothon hosted by the company’s leading Spanish-language radio networks, La Tricolor, Jose, Super Estrella, Que Pasa, Maria and El Gato. Funds were donated to 13 Children’s Miracle Network hospitals in Entravision radio stations’ local markets. "Children’s Miracle Network is very fortunate to have the support of Entravision," said CMN’s Vice President Joe Trevino. "[T]heir efforts allow us to continue to provide the very best care to sick and injured children."
Hearst Television-owned NBC affiliate KSBW Salinas, Calif. hosted its annual Share Your Holiday drive to benefit the Salvation Army. KSBW collected $161,000 (30 percent more than in 2013), in addition to 10,000 pounds of food and 1,000 toys. "We are humbled by the generosity of our viewers," said KSBW General Manager Joseph Heston. "It’s one thing to profess to want to help others and it’s quite another to step up and actually get it done.”
Cowles California Media Company’s KION-TV offered all candidates in national, state and local races, to record one minute of unedited airtime to speak directly to voters. More than 100 candidates’ segments appeared during the highest rated prime time newscasts. KION-TV brought in local elections officials to answer viewer questions about voting, in English and Spanish. The station also created a special section of its website for candidates to explain their positions and promoted it heavily on air. Anchors moderated debates using viewer-submitted questions. KION-TV aired more than two dozen in depth reports on election-related topics and provided fact checks of candidate statements based on questions from viewers.
Newport Television’s KGPE-TV Fresno, Calif., partnered with Walgreens to provide 1,120 free flu shots worth almost $45,000 to viewers."It was a record day," said Robert Guillen, Walgreens district manager in Fresno. KGPE promoted the drive, covered it live and sent personalities to greet viewers. Guillen and Walgreens staff complimented the television staff’s organization, dedication and results.
ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC and some cable channels will air a live, commercial-free telethon on September 7th for Stand Up to Cancer (SU2C). One hundred percent of the $180 million pledged in previous telethons benefits cancer research. Gwyneth Paltrow will replace Laura Ziskin as executive producer. Ziskin, who produced the first three "Spider-Man" movies, lost a seven-year battle with breast cancer in 2011.
"This broadcast has become a global call-to-action for all those touched by cancer," Paltrow said. "Like so many people, I know what it’s like to lose a family member to this disease, and I’m honored to stand up in my father’s memory."
Hearst-owned KCRA-TV and KQCA-TV Sacramento partnered with the Sacramento Sierra Chapter of the American Red Cross to host a disaster relief drive on November 2 to benefit areas impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The stations aired cut-ins throughout the day and solicited donations during the day’s newscasts. KCRA-KQCA President and General Manager Elliott Troshinsky told TVNewsCheck, "It is important that we do all we can to provide help to the communities devastated by this storm."
During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, XEWW-AM in Burbank, Calif., launched a campaign to raise awareness within the Hispanic community. On the air, the Spanish-language talk radio station aired several interviews with cancer survivors and health experts, including Esther McDowell, spokesperson for the Office of Women’s Health. XEWW also dedicated significant time to answer questions from its community about breast cancer during “Cita con el Doctor,” a regular health topic show hosted by Elmer Huerta, M.D., the first ever Latino president of the American Cancer Association. In addition to its on-air support, the station had a presence at events in the community, such as the el Consulado Mexicano Health Fair, where women received free mammograms and the station distributed prizes to attendees.
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s KLAC-AM Los Angeles raised $135,000 during its 5th annual "Help a Hero" radiothon. The seven-hour, commercial-free broadcast and online auction set a station record. Proceeds benefited the Paralyzed Veterans of America, which provides rehab, access to medical services, job training and continuing research to find a cure for paralysis.
CBS Radio’s KFRG-FM San Bernardino and KXFG-FM Sun City raised over $305,000 in the 11th Annual "K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon" to benefit the pediatric cancer unit at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital in Riverside, CA. The stations have raised $4 million for the hospital in 11 years.
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