November 2003

SYRACUSE — Phil Markert knows a thing or two about the history of broadcasting in Syracuse. That, along with his engaging style, makes him a perfect fit to lead a discussion with some of the other greats of Syracuse radio and television.

CANTON, OH — Less than two months into his new gig in Canton, Ohio, former 95X (WAQX) jock and program director Bob O’Dell is off to “pursue another opportunity.”   O’Dell, who exited 95X in August amid controversy regarding his support of local music, made the move to WRQK in early October. No word yet on

SYRACUSE — Both Y94FM (WYYY) and Lite 105.9 (WLTI) are billing themselves as the area’s “official holiday station” as each bumps up seasonal music into heavy rotation.  Y94FM flipped to all holiday music on Tuesday, while Lite 105.9 is playing about a 25% mix in with their regular playlist.  This is the third year in a

SYRACUSE — The Syracuse radio community and listeners alike showed up in huge numbers for the November 15th benefit for Jim O’Brien. The event, held at the Valley Legion Hall, raised over $25,000 through raffles, door prizes, and the sale of some WNDR related memorabilia.  O’Brien, who was a WNDR air personality for over 30

SYRACUSE — All Access is reporting that Scorch has been suspended from his duties at New Rock 105 ‘The Dog’ (WWDG) pending a review of some on-air obscenities.  Scorch is the Clear Channel active rocker’s afternoon air personality and music director. The station’s web site lists Dino as The Dog’s new afternoon guy.  Is Scorch gone for

All Access is reporting that Scorch has been suspended from his duties at New Rock 105 ‘The Dog’ (WWDG) pending a review of some on-air obscenities. Scorch is the Clear Channel active rocker’s afternoon air personality and music director. The station’s web site lists Dino as The Dog’s new afternoon guy. Is Scorch gone for

SYRACUSE — The word from New Rock 105 (WWDG) station management is that Scorch is in the dog house for playing the song “F— You, B— Me!” during his shift.

AUBURN, NY — Heather Lardeo, a 12-year-old Auburn resident, is off to Anaheim, California this weekend to compete with seven other contestants in a national singing competition sponsored by Radio Disney.

Rick Sommers, a part-time and weekend jock for New York City’s 106.7 Lite FM (WLTW), is leaving the station for graduate school and a return to stand-up comedy. Sommers began his radio career in the early 1980s at Ithaca’s WTKO as Ricky King. Rick’s brother is Syracuse radio veteran Peter King.

SYRACUSE — Jazz 88 (WAER) has relocated its studios and offices for the fourth time in its 56-year history. The new facilities are in Half Hall at the northeast corner of Euclid and Ostrom avenues. Lack of space at the station’s previous home in SU’s Newhouse building was the main reason for the move, that,