In 1988, several Minnesota TV executives announced plans to create a TV network. It never happened, but it marked the start of a tumultuous period for some of the stations involved.
Author: Jon Ellis
Weekly Log: Duluth ND Returns, DeRusha Trades WCCO’s
This week’s developments include longtime Duluth journalist Steve Goodspeed returning to the news director’s office and Jason DeRusha changing WCCO’s.
Data Dump: The Largest Upper Midwest Cities Without Full-Power Licenses
Four of Minnesota’s ten most-populated cities have no full power radio or TV licenses, though being a “community of license” is largely symbolic.
MPR Receives $56 Million Gift to Support Classical Programming
Minnesota Public Radio has announced the receipt of a $56 million cash gift to support Classical music programming.
Ask NorthPine: How Are Radio Markets Defined?
A reader asks how radio markets are defined. Information is not publicly released, but some data does occasionally come out in FCC filings.
Newsroom Notes: Tips for Getting Your Event or Cause Covered on TV News
Over my years working in TV newsroom, I noticed things that work and things that don’t work when businesses and organizations are trying to get coverage.
FCC Monitor: Tegna Info Request; FM’s Go Silent in Grand Marais, Waukesha
Additional information is being sought about the proposed sale of Tegna. Meanwhile, two FM stations have gone off the air and another is now at greatly reduced power.
Off Topic: Back When I Played Daft Punk and TLC on Public Radio
In the late 1990s, huge dance, hip-hop, and R&B hits weren’t being played on Duluth-Superior radio. I was determined to do something about it even if my delivery was more AC than CHR.
Broadcast History: The Innovative UHF Era That Created MST3K
In the 1980s, three upstart UHF stations battled for the attention of Twin Cities TV viewers. Their struggles led to some innovative programming and strategies that continue today.
Weekly Log: Numerous Departures as Summer Begins; Fundraiser in Lincoln
At least seven Upper Midwest news anchors and on-air personalities departed or announced their departures in the last week. Several new hires were announced.