Aggregator

.

.

Eliminates the termination dates in sections 76.64(l) and 76.65(f) of the Commission's rules, to conform to the Television Viewer Protection Act of 2019

.

.

Apogee has updated its MetaRecorder iOS app with the release of V2.2. The audio recording app for iPhone and iPad offers linked recording, tagging and organizing of audio on up to four iOS devices.

New to this version is the ability for all Apogee products, including Symphony Desktop, to unlock MetaRecorder on iPhone, iPad and iPad Pro. Additionally the link feature that was ‘broken’ by iOS 14 has been fixed, and there have been additional ‘general bug fixes.’

[Check Out More Products at Radio World’s Products Section]

Apogee MetaRecorder is a two-channel audio recording app for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch with features to support a variety of workflows. Audio is recorded at up to 24-bit/96 kHz in WAV or CAF format. Users can connect an Apogee audio interface or Sennheiser ClipMic digital or MKE 2 digital lavalier mic for a professional quality input signal, and adjust hardware input gain and DSP (Sennheiser only) from MetaRecorder.

MetaRecorder features compatibility with Timecode Systems’ UltraSync BLUE module as an in-app purchase. When enabled, MetaRecorder receives timecode via Bluetooth and embeds it into the audio file metadata. This is intended to simplify synchronization of audio and video files in Final Cut Pro (or another NLE).

The app is available in the Apple app store with a free edition that allows in-app purchases to the full version ($4.99), full version with multidevice support ($14.99) and other upgrades.

Info: https://apogeedigital.com

 

The post Apogee MetaRecorder Updated With V2.2 appeared first on Radio World.

The North American Broadcasters Association has rolled out some security/cybersecurity recommendations for broadcasters working in a studio and out in the field.

The recommendations were generated by the NABA-TC Cybersecurity Subcommittee, which is chaired by engineer John Lee.

“A year or so ago, I was presenting the work of TC Cybersecurity Subcommittee to the board, and there was a specific request from a board member to look at cybersecurity for personnel working in the field,” he said. “There is a lot of information available online on how journalists and their crews can remain cybersecure even when working on stories in hostile physical or political environments. [But] to the best of my knowledge, no broadcast union had to this point formally issued cybersecurity recommendations in this regard. [So] this will hopefully prove to be helpful to our journalists and field personnel,” he said, adding that the recommendations apply to both TV, radio and web journalists.

[Read: Public Warning Cited as Greatest Cyber-risk]

The in-house recommendations released by NABA include installing antivirus, antimalware or endpoint malware detection tools, and employing a password manager to generate and store strong, complex, unique passwords. The organization suggests enabling multifactor authentication for all accounts by using a code generator like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator or Duo.

When it comes to software, only use licensed software and check with the IT team before deploying an unknown software tool.

When out in the field, the organization suggests setting up threat modeling for all journalists that work in the field. Threat modeling involves considering what possible threats might present themselves, how likely those threats are to manifest and what steps can be taken to counter a risk.

The organization tells broadcasters to consider providing a smartphone or laptop that can be used specifically for travel; such a device would most likely have limited data stored on it. NABA also suggests that reporters keep essential devices on their person — don’t leave computers in a hotel room or check them in luggage.

A smart but simple step: sign out of applications that store sensitive or confidential data before you leave on assignment, which is particularly important in high-risk situations where the authorities may compel a reporter to turn over a device for examination. And consider using VPN connections at all times when connecting through the Internet in the field.

Here is the complete list of suggestions from the NABA. Broadcasters should also take advantage of additional security guidance by organizations like Freedom of the Press Foundation and Committee to Protect Journalists.

 

The post Steps to Keeping Safety in the Studio and On the Road appeared first on Radio World.

The ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; along with the lead Republican member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband; and the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security; have teamed for the introduction of legislation that would require the FCC and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to update a memorandum of understanding that governs biannual meetings between the agencies to conduct joint spectrum planning.

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

The General Sales Manager for Beasley Media Group‘s Detroit radio station group has been elevated to the role of Director of Sales.

It’s a rise for a woman whose career has heavily involved Classic Rock WCSX, Rocker WRIF, and before that the Motor City stations now owned by Audacy.

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

Radio World friend David Antoine is heading back to an old stomping ground, WBGO(FM), Newark, N.J. Previously ending his time there as chief engineer, he returns to be chief technology officer.

[Read: Antoine Builds on a Sound Education]

Through a four-decade career Antoine has also been at WBLS(FM), WLIB(AM), WOR(AM), WQHT(FM), WRKS(FM), WNCN(FM), WQXR(FM) and WQEW(AM). He has also served as the director of broadcast IT for Westwood One’s network distribution & technical operations center.

He was most recently a radio broadcast engineer with equipment maker Lawo. In addition he is a member of the Society of Broadcast Engineers and holds SBE certifications CBRE and CBNT.

 

The post Antoine Returns to WBGO appeared first on Radio World.

In November 2013, a veteran of Interep with time at Katz Radio Group and MacGavren Guild was promoted after 3 1/2 years as GSM, of a group of stations serving New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley.

Today, Bruce Feniger remains in command of the Pamal Broadcasting stations, including two 50kw heritage FMs that continue to command large audiences. In this exclusive conversation, Feniger shares on the latest InFOCUS Podcast, presented by dot.FM, how Pamal has carved a niche within the nation’s No. 1 DMA — and attracts advertisers and consumers in ways New York City-based radio and TV stations can’t.

Listen to “The InFOCUS Podcast: Bruce Feniger, Pamal Broadcasting” on Spreaker.

Streamline Publishing’s Radio Ink and Podcast Business Journal this July are taking you to Podcasting School.

The first person anyone who is serious about making money podcasting calls is Podcasting Hall of Famer Dave Jackson. He created The School of Podcasting.

Jackson began podcasting in 2005, and his weekly School of Podcasting show now has over 2.8 million downloads.

He’s helped thousands of aspiring podcasters plan, launch, and grow their podcasts. If you’re serious about podcasting, you’ve either spent time with Jackson, taken his courses, or packed a room to see him speak.

Jackson is also the author of Profit from Your Podcast: Proven Strategies to Turn Listeners into a Livelihood. In July, during our three-day virtual podcast conference, Jackson is going to tell you how to turn listeners into a livelihood.

On Wednesday, July 14 Dave Jackson joins our virtual podcasting conference, How to Make Real Money Podcasting, where he’ll tell us everything he knows about how YOU can make REAL money podcasting.

 

REGISTER for our virtual podcasting conference July 13-15 HERE

TITLE SPONSOR PARTICIPATING SPONSORS

Subscribe to Dave Jackson’s podcasts HERE. Reach out to Dave Jackson at schoolofpodcasting@gmail.com

His Allen Media Broadcasting had been rumored to be a front-runner in the race to win ownership of 10 television stations Gray Television agreed to sell in order to receive regulatory approval of its merger with Quincy Media, Inc.

It’s now official: Allen Media is the buyer.

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

LOS ANGELES — Cross-platform and connected TV advertising opportunities just got another boost, thanks to a “unique” strategic partnership that’s been forged between television set maker VIZIO and Verizon Media.

BE SURE TO FOLLOW RBR+TVBR ON TWITTER!

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

Early in the pandemic, Comcast shares were “dragged down by NBCU’s cyclicality,” MoffettNathanson Senior Analyst Craig Moffett notes. When they began to rally last November, it wasn’t because the market began to focus on the cable assets.

Rather, Moffett concludes, “it was because the market was searching for more cyclical exposure and was playing the re-opening trade. It was all about the theme parks.”

What does Moffett say now? “Talk about the tail wagging the dog. Now it’s time for the Cable side’s star turn.”

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

TORONTO — One of Canada’s biggest communications companies has forged a strategic alliance with an advanced ad tech company designed to leverage its platform, enabling it to deliver “a proprietary omni-channel demand-side platform (DSP)” for advertisers.

BE SURE TO CONNECT WITH RBR+TVBR ON FACEBOOK 

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

MIAMI — In between songs from Wisin & Yandel, Prince Royce and J. Balvin, Enrique Santos was conversing with his local listeners on iHeartMedia‘s reggaetón-fueled Spanish Contemporary WZTU-FM “Tú 94.9.”

Among the topics shared on Wednesday’s program, “Do you tell your partner when someone flirts with you?” and “My co-worker asked me to be his lover.”

The bits are heard nationally, on a Spanish-language syndicated morning show originating from WZTU. That will continue, along with Santos’ other corporate duties for iHeartMedia, thanks to a new contract.

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

The owner of NewsNation, former Tribune stations such as KTLA-5 in Los Angeles and WGN-9 in Chicago, and key legacy properties including KOIN-6 in Portland, Ore., is rewarding its shareholders with a hefty quarterly cash dividend.

Nexstar Media Group’s Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.70 per share of its Class A common stock.

The dividend is payable on Friday, May 28, to shareholders of record on Friday, May 14.

It’s a testament to the strong performance in 2021 for NXST, which opened Thursday’s trading on the Nasdaq GlobalSelect market at $150.56.

With a $160.37 finish on St. Patrick’s Day, Nexstar shares are in a range that’s higher than they’ve ever seen. As the year started, NXST was at $107.83. One year ago, with pandemic concerns plaguing media stocks, NXST was at $66.60.

Now, it bears a 1-year target price of $166.61.

You’re welcome, Georgia voters.

Meredith Local Media enjoyed a particularly strong fiscal Q3, with the first three months of 2021 yielding a healthy increase in core advertising, along with a surprising influx of political ad dollars resulting from two runoff races in the Peach State that received national recognition — and financial support.

THE NEW RBR+TVBR LINKEDIN PAGE IS NOW ACTIVE! JOIN IN THE CONVERSATION

Please Login to view this premium content. (Not a member? Join Today!)

Compliance is the keyword.

It has now been three years since all U.S. radio stations were required to establish an online public file or OPIF and move their paper files to the online portal set up by the Federal Communications Commission.

Since that deadline, it has become apparent that many licensees were not maintaining their files correctly. The FCC has drawn attention to this as station licenses come up for renewal, announcing a series of consent decrees in which owners large and small acknowledge that they failed to comply. 

The commission has been lenient; these agreements involve no financial penalty and the commission acknowledged the impact of the pandemic. But the decrees require immediate steps be taken to address deficiencies, put best practices in place to ensure compliance and report back to the FCC.

Concern and diligence

Properly maintaining the OPIF, political file and the quarterly issues and programs lists are of upmost importance as stations in 20 states have their license renewal cycle this year, and lack of compliance can cause the commission at minimum to put an application on hold.

Frank Montero

“With it being moved online and accessible by all, the public inspection file has gone from a randomly maintained annoyance to an important aspect of station compliance,” said Frank Montero of the law firm Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth. 

“Licensees are learning that they can no longer just check the ‘Yes’ [compliance] box on the license renewal.”

While the recent consent decrees have not involved monetary penalties, failure to comply with these rules can indeed be costly, said Cary Tepper of Tepper Law Firm.

“On occasion, multiple public file deficiencies have resulted not only in fines, but in license renewals being processed slowly, or in a couple of cases, short-term renewals issued,” he said.

“Instead of an eight-year renewal, you get a one-year renewal with the order to clean up your act and prove to the FCC that you’re going to remain compliant. It’s created a lot of concern for some clients, but also made others more diligent.”

Cary Tepper with puppy Ava

To avoid issues or delays in the renewal process, stations should consider hiring an attorney to conduct an external audit of their OPIF.

Tepper and Montero said the most common trouble spots are with the political file or the quarterly issues and programs lists. Montero said this may be because these items “do not involve information that is automatically uploaded by the FCC.”

Montero said, “For your political file, we tell clients that even if they had no contact with political candidates during election season, they may want to place a memo in the political file.” He said this will let the FCC know that the station is aware of the requirements and that a lack of information does not indicate neglect.

In the event that stations find that their quarterly issues and programs list are deficient or there are other areas in the file that need revisions, Tepper recommends including a special exhibit during the license renewal process.

This will indicate that while “preparing the license renewal application, the station had its public file audited and found X, Y and Z needed to be fixed so fixed it before filing the renewal application,” Tepper said.

 “Normally, when the [FCC] staff sees that you are self-monitoring and fixing it, they don’t make an issue out of it.” 

He said many stations don’t realize that their remote programming can be included in the quarterly issues and programs list as “responsive programming.”

“People don’t think in terms of the complete picture of ‘What have we done that qualifies?’” He noted that many stations broadcast live from local and charitable events but overlook these events when considering what to include in the quarterly reports. He said these may be documented in an attachment. 

Best practices

Both attorneys stressed the importance of uploading any OPIF documents on or before the required deadline. 

Montero recommended that stations assign an employee or staffer who is specifically responsible to make sure the file is kept current. 

Indeed the recent FCC settlements typically include stipulations that the offending company designate a senior manager to serve as a compliance officer, someone who reports directly to the CEO or senior officer; establish a compliance manual; and set up a staff training program.

Tepper said the FCC website provides public file information about what documents need to be included in the public and political files. 

“If you have any doubt, just throw every political document in there,” Tepper said. “Even if you’re not sure what should be there, they’re not going to fine you or fault you for having too much in the public file.” 

Even though the online filing requirement was issued three years ago, some stations still have insufficiencies or have simply not set up their OPIF.

Tepper said some minority-owned stations may be missing important communication from the FCC because of language issues. Montero said many smaller stations may not be aware of requirements and updates because they don’t have the luxury of a FCC law firm.

Montero said good information is available from state broadcast associations, FCC resources, past articles in Radio World, YouTube training videos and blog articles.

State association websites often provide training materials, webinars and contact information for people who can assist smaller stations and provide education and training on compliance issues. 

Participation in the Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program also provides a connection to a local expert who conducts an FCC-style inspection of the public file and station operations. While the certificate of completion from these programs does not free a station from FCC scrutiny, an ABIP inspection is an excellent way to identify any problems before the commission does.

Watch a webcast demo of the FCC’s online public inspection file interface at https://tinyurl.com/rw-opif.

The author is station manager of REV 89 | KTSC(FM) in the Department of Media Communication, Colorado State University Pueblo.

The post The FCC Can See Your Public File appeared first on Radio World.