HMW

SPORTS RADIO 610's MVP !!! - LM

2012-02-08T11:59:00.001-06:00

SPORTS RADIO 610 MVP!!!

Written By: LM

This article is actually one I am considering rolling out for all the stations but since this is Sports Radio 610 Week, I chose to begin with the "ratings leader".

Do a little exercise for me, write down all of the personalities, sports directors, program director, and producers employed by SR610. Now ask yourself, who is the one person SR610 cannot afford to lose?

Over the years, there have been so many changes at 610, some I support, some I hate but there has always been one catalyst driving the engine. Sports Radio 610 as constructed today can thank all of their success to Gavin Spittle. Yes, Gavin Spittle is the Most Valuable Player of 610.

Of the four PDs in this market Gavin is the most visible, most responsive, most innovative therefore comparing him against his peers is a "no brainer" and to compare to him to his subordinates or even Brian Purdy (his boss) is just as easy. The Sports Radio 610 train is not going to stop if Rich Lord, Josh Innes or Marc Vandermeer were to leave.

I really despised Gavin Spittle for a while because I did not like how he handled the Adam Wexler v Craig Shelton (urban legend) situation but over the years I have come to realize it's business. In a strange way, he is like a nice Napoleon. In other words he is very cordial but power hungry from what I have observed in addition to the way the personalities speak of him.

For the people who do not know the structure of Sports Radio 610, Gavin Spittle is the Program Director. He is pretty much the man. If there are new hires, changes or firings, chances are Gavin's hand-print is on it. You will very seldom hear him on the radio but if you attend some of their big events, you will see him on-site working the crowd being social.

I still say his biggest accomplishment was the ability to pull off Fan Fest. Fan Fest is the one day, SR610 remove all of their arrogance and show their fans how much they appreciate them. I love it and I think if you are a Houston sports fan, you should attend at least one. Fans of other stations who never attended a Fan Fest may read this and be like "big deal". Well that's just it, we are not talking about a sports bar or club venue we are talking Reliant Dome and Center, activities, all of your child hood stars, autographs, media, and most important of all free.

With the good, comes the real. Although Gavin is my MVP I really don't like the lazy way of trying to display they are "inclusive" with the weak promo of "we have added Terrence Harris and Ana Meagan to our staff". Really Gavin, that's not clever that's pandering. How about a "promo" of you hiring a minority or a female in a prime time slot hence John Lopez. The issue is not who you hire it's the obvious way of making a promo out of something small in the grand scheme and trying to make it a huge deal. The promo of Ana Megan and Terrence Harris is similar to the guy who says "I graduated high school" or "I take care of my kids" or "I never been to jail" and expecting a cookie. Jokingly, I would respect a promo of Gavin saying, "Unlike 790, I have hired a female and an African American, top that". No my friend you do not receive cheers for doing what I would consider what should be the norm in 2012.

OUT

CALL SCREENERS GONE WILD "SPORTS RADIO 610" - LM

2012-02-07T08:41:00.000-06:00

CALL SCREENERS GONE WILD "SPORTS RADIO 610"

Written By: LM

Change has come at Sports Radio 610. The standard Sports Talk formula use to be, host lay out a topic, host opens the phones up for calls, call screener take the callers take, and caller gets to agree or disagree with host. Some hosts even conduct their show in an open door policy fashion, meaning, call with any topic you like.

For the most part, that method still apply but Sports Radio 610's takes and analysis are so strong, you have to damn near perform "circus" acts to get beyond the call screener. Calling Sports Radio 610 these days during the week is similar to calling Jim Rome back in the days or trying to break in Fort Knox. SR610 call screeners want you to prove your worthiness of getting on the air. Below is an example of what you are likely to receive if you call 610.

Marc: I really like 70s Yacht Rock
JLO: I am not much of a Yacht Rock guy, but I love 80s Hairband
Marc: Lets reset this for people who have not heard but the Texans may have to match an Arian Foster offer from another team.
JLO: Yea that's unfortunate and what we are going to do on the other side is open the lines up for reaction
Screener: Sports Radio 610, name and side of town?
Caller: Lamont Mann, Mo City
Screener: What's your take?
Caller: Well I think the Texans made a mistake allowing the Foster situation to get to this point
Screener: Do you know the origin of Foster the Surname
Caller: I think England
Screener: How many D1 schools recruited Arian Foster
Caller: 4 maybe 5
Screener: Which 610 personality you like the most?
Caller: Captain Mickey
Screener: You sure you want to talk Sports?
Caller: On second thoughts, I want to talk about 70s Yacht Rock and I absolutely hate 80s hairbands
Screener: COOL, YOU ARE ON

I heard people complain about the call screeners before but I didn't think much of it until I experienced it for myself, Let me add, my experiences yes plural were a tad different than the above skit. In fact, the skit above is just that, a skit.

After my rude call screener experience, I called Craig Shelton and ask him is it possible these are renegade/rogue call screeners that Gavin Spittle is unaware of. Craig gave levity to my question by asking me, "Lamont from everything you know of Gavin, do you think it's possible Gavin don't know what's going on in his operation".

I don't even know where to begin, it would be one thing if SR610 were honestly screening callers for strong sports takes but it's almost like SR610 is screening people for weak sports take and strong "non sports" takes. There's a part of me that honestly believe Gavin Spittle is protecting his personalities sport's limitations. This is not only displayed via calls but check out their social media interaction, for example, lets use Marc Vandermeer. Go look at Marc's Twitter Timeline, it's very generic, it's a pure marketing tool. Then there is Rich Lord with no activity at all. Now listen to their shows and they are all to happy to read texts and sometimes reply. That's because it's a controlled environment. It reminds me of Craig Shelton asking Rich Lord, what's a basic 3.4 defense and Rich damn near wet his pants because he honestly did not know.

Back to the screeners because I seriously do not believe the hosts know what's going on with call screeners in most cases. I really don't know what's going on with SR610 Call screeners. Maybe, this is built into their everyday operations. All in all, The Texans have created a Monster. SR610 seen these inflated numbers and not only do the Program Director and personalities think they are "Rock Stars" but it has filtered down to the damn producers and call screeners.

As far as my situation with SR610 call screener, we will move that to the HMW Vault of urban legends. Is Sports Radio 610 still a Sports Talk Station? Once this question is honestly answered, less confusion there may be on my end.

OUT

THE EVOUTION OF A NATIONAL HOLIDAY: WHEN SPORTS CROSSED THE LINE - JEFF ROY - 2/5/2012

2012-02-05T06:17:00.018-06:00

THE EVOUTION OF A NATIONAL HOLIDAY: WHEN SPORTS CROSSED THE LINE

Written by: Jeff Roy

Date posted: 2/5/2012

Super Bowl XLVI, that’s 46 in Roman numerals, is today, February 5, 2012. The idea the count must be kept in a system that fell out of use during the Middle Ages is supposed to heighten the gladiatorial magnitude of the event. The system developed during the age of the Caesars had no symbol to represent zero. Too bad, because there really was an SB Zero.

What later became know as Super Bowl I, a 35-10 loss by the Kansas City Chiefs to the Green Bay Packers, was actually called the "AFL-NFL World Championship Game." Think of this as a starting point, position zero on the number line of the most transcendent sporting contest in America. Jets vs. Colts was the first meeting called “The Super Bowl” and the Chiefs vs.Vikings was labeled Super Bowl IV the following year.

No one took the American Football League or the competition seriously until Joe Willie Namath made good on his guarantee that Baltimore would be beaten. When Kansas City completely dominated the Vikings, the supremacy of the National Football League was no longer taken as gospel. The championship of professional football was starting to merit its “Super” designation.

From 1970-79, viewership nearly doubled from 40 million viewers to a peek of almost 80 million for Pittsburgh and Dallas in SB XIII. Their first meeting in SB X was when I noticed women wanted to see what all the commotion was about. A party organized by friends included as many females as males, but they were into the food and drink as much as the action. Most of them hadn’t watched a game all season, but knew this one was something special.

Two factors in particular were both cause and effect for the meteoric rise in its popularity. Advertisements and halftime performances became as much of the reason to watch as the game itself. Miller Lite spots and the Coke ad featuring "Mean Joe" Greene were some of the must-sees in the late 70’s. The “1984” introduction of the Macintosh was as much cultural statement as product promo, and set a standard that has yet to be equaled.

Until 1987, every halftime included some marching band accompanied by "Up With People" or possibly a “B” list celebrity like Carol Channing (Wiki links to follow). But that year George Burns and Mickey Rooney emceed a Disney production that engulfed the entire field. Over the next few years the acts became more contemporary, with New Kids on the Block, Gloria Estefan, and Michael Jackson appearing as the show took on a different dimension. Other than the 2002 tribute to 9/11, every genre from pop to hip-hop to country to classic rock has been represented to date.

The “wardrobe malfunction” in 2004 at Reliant Stadium led to a string of AARP acts that was broken by The Black Eyed Peas, Usher, and Slash last year. With middle-aged Madonna featured this coming Sunday, who knows what trend is to follow. But halftime is still a “can’t-be-missed” feature of the biggest TV happening of the year.

For an event very few will ever attend in person, most people watch from someone’s home or maybe a sports bar. So the pulled pork sliders, chili con queso, and marbled brownies have become the real focus of the day. Super Bowl Sunday is now recognized as the second biggest food holiday of the year, trailing only Thanksgiving. Based on sales, chips and dips are king, with chicken wings gaining in popularity. Surprisingly, more beer is sold prior to Halloween, so snacks of all kinds are the real money winner. I guess Lay’s gets a better return on their ad budget than Budweiser.

So what about this “line” that has supposedly been crossed? Look at how much can be said about everything but the matchup. Parade Magazine is not the sports section, so don’t expect to see Tom Brady and Eli Manning on its cover. It features the one thing everyone is interested in:

Most folks are into all-out partying, but how many are really tuned into the play-by-play? The majority is at a get-together where their team, if they have one, isn’t even playing. While the competitiveness of the game has greatly improved since the mid-90’s, the ratings were highest during the mid-80’s when NFC blowouts were the rule.

In fact, the number of viewers hovered around the 90 million mark until 2006, when they finally began an upward climb to a record of 111 million in 2011. Considering a 30-second spot costs $3.5M for this year’s spectacle, it takes a lot of eyes to justify that level of investment. The spots are sold out once again, but let’s compare ad rates vs. viewers.

In 1982, the first time the count passed 80 million, 30 seconds cost $324,800. Adjusted for inflation, these same ads should run $757,000 this year. The rates for 2012 represents an increase of 463%, while the number of people watching is only up 35% over the same period. This may not prove a thing about who’s actually paying attention to the game, but no one puts up that kind of money unless they are convinced their potential customers are glued to the commercials.

The real bonus is the after-buzz, when the best spots are water cooler talk and social media fodder across the land. Think of these ads as the kickoff of marketing campaigns from virtually every automaker, services like GoDaddy and E*Trade, the latest salvo in the never-ending battle between Pepsi and Coke for the hearts and minds of cola drinkers.

Think the impact of the ads is overstated? CBS presented its "Super Bowl’s Greatest Commercials" special for a 12th year on February 1. This is a Hall of Fame induction ceremony for the ad industry, an open acknowledgment the Super Bowl represents the biggest stage for their business. Whoops, my bad! For over a decade, the most widely employed marketing reference is the “The Big Game,” as the use of “Super Bowl” is reserved for NFL Properties under its strict licensing agreement. The very title is as well protected as Tim Tebow’s virginity. Such is the power of the brand itself.

This football game is more of an axis around which the staples of American life revolve: entertainment, marketing, and consumption. Three areas where we continue to lead the world. Our annual occasion to declare “We’re No.1!” with all the conviction such an extravaganza can justify.

Just when it became primarily a cultural as opposed to sporting attraction depends on what measure is used. If you had to pass a test just to watch the 46th edition, how many could correctly answer at least three of the following:

· Who are the coaches of each team?

· Outside of the quarterbacks, name at least one starter on both offense and defense for either team.

· Who did the opposing teams beat to make it in into “The Big Game?”

· Name the division each teams belongs to in their respective conferences.

· Bonus points: Who is David Tyree?

No doubt a strict set of criterion, as even the Pats defense left me guessing. But I venture to say a larger percentage could have passed a similar test in 1976 than now. The phenomenal growth of professional sports in the last 50 years is not a result of some parallel development of sports junkies. The decision to turn athletic events into an ADD-inducing multimedia onslaught, a place to see and be seen, draws an abundance of casual fans for whom the competition is just part of the experience and not the sole reason to attend.

In 2014, Super Bowl XLVIII will be held at MetLife Stadium in northern New Jersey; the first to be held outdoors in a wintry climate. More than a few whiners are fretting about inclement weather playing too big a role in the outcome. As if the game is so sacred that it should be hermetically sealed in a studio-like environment. And the participants, fans, and players alike should never have to contend with the primal conditions in which the American version of this sport was born. With a blizzard raging and the drifts rising it might be interesting to see how all the one-percenters who make up the bulk of the crowd would deal with the conditions. OMG, could the halftime show be cancelled?! For once, maybe the millions who tune in would be reminded this is first and foremost about football and not just an excuse for a party.

Carol Channing wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carol_Channing

Up With People wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Up_with_People

Nielsen ratings: http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2009/01/18/historical-super-bowl-tv-ratings/11044/

Super Bowl's Greatest Commercials: http://www.cbs.com/superbowl

Jeff Roy

HMW

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WHO HAD THE BEST SUPERBOWL INTERVIEWS ON RADIO ROW -LM

2012-02-04T12:07:00.002-06:00

WHO HAD THE BEST SUPERBOWL INTERVIEWS: RADIO ROW

Written By: LM

Houston Radio invaded Indianapolis in full force. Full disclosure; I only caught about 5 interviews live but thanks to technology I used our radio stations to listen to interviews. I am not as hyped for radio week as I use to be because Houston has an inferiority complex which leads the personalities to ask redundant questions to their guest about the Houston Texans. Newsflash, most of Houston do not care what "nationals" think or say about Houston. With that being said, the local radio I did catch, the theme was clear, everyone in Indy to a man just so happen to say "If Schaub was healthy, y'all would have been here". I am not saying it's a falsehood but telling me that is almost as confusing as Bob McNair in 2010 telling us "The owners at the owners' meetings think Texans are moving in the right direction", I believe we were 5 and 6 about to play the Ravens on Monday Night Football. Yes, Yes in hind site, the owners may have been right but I remember it was not what the fan base cared to hear at the time.

I am not sure if the media has keywords they have to use but I this week I heard the word amicable more than I have heard in my whole life and this is with me not listening as much I would normally listen. I heard the word amicable at least 8 times this week. Since this word was popular, I decided to dictionary it.

adjective

characterized by or showing goodwill; friendly; peaceable: anamicable settlement.

HMW is amicable?

My last thoughts "Radio Row" I wonder how other cities looked at how Houston 4 stations invaded Indy. I can only think of 1 or 2 other cities who would probably be able to send 4 Sports Talk Stations to Radio Row. Not only the other stations but I can only imagine how the guests felt sitting down at yet another Houston Sports station, it had to be awkward to say the least. I guess where I am going, If I'm BIG TIME SUPERSTAR MOGUL and I just did an interview with one Houston Sports Talk Station and I want to maximize my exposure am I really going to waste time on another? Prime Example, Adam Sandler trying to push a movie, is it really in His best interest to sit down at 4 Houston Sports Talk Station or hit 1 maybe 2 and move on to the next city? With that being said, BIG TIME SUPERSTAR MOGUL'S staff should be smart enough to maximize exposure by knowing the local city(s) of a particular genre with the most numbers.

INTERVIEWS

Without further-ado, got together with the HMW and asked what was there favorite interview on which station. The station is important if you are a newbe to sports talk because for the most part all of these guys interview the same people however the way questions are framed and the ability of the hosts to get the guests in a comfort zone speaks volumes. In addition to HMW, I also wanted to gauge the sports talk fans like myself.

CLICK TO LISTEN TO INTERVIEWS

Craig "Lesbian Craig" Shelton - HMW Founder/Host of THE CUT

Angelo "Cognitive" Lawford HMW Writer

Dhani Jones w/ Matt Jackson, Adam Wexler, & Lance Zierlein - BIG SHOW (790)

Lamont "LM" Mann HMW Writer

My favorite interview: SportsMK Smack Talking with Maurice Jones Drew on Matt Thomas

Mark Levy w/ Matt Thomas (790)
Solomon Wilcots w/Matt Thomas (790)
Warren Sapp w/ Travis Rodgers (1560)
Vanilla Ice w/ Mike Meltser and Brad Davies (610) "MAD RADIO"
Adam Sandler w/ Charlie Pallilo (790) (close to the end of show)
Larry Fitzgerald w/J&R (610)

*******************

Sports Talk Listeners

The_Jermaine - Shannon Sharpe w/Travis Rodgers (1560)
Sportsmk - SportsMK vs Maurice Jones Drew w/Matt Thomas (790)
atxhobogirl - Jay Mohr w/ Big Show (790)
TyMo214 - Tom Condon w/ Craig Shemon (1560)
bigron281 - Rich Eisen (not sure about the show/station)
art_jimenez - Jay Mohr w/Big Show (790)
Rob_in_Cypress - Arian Foster w/ J&R (610)

WRAP IT UP

First off, Mad props to all four stations representing on Radio Row.

On the surface, I have to say Sports Talk 790 may have had the biggest week. It seems to be a mild consensus of Jay Mohr being one of the best interviews. I think it had to do with Jay Mohr treating Matt Jackson like a scrub which Matt later explained it was all in fun. I can take that but as a man, no one can tell me to shut up, joking or not.

Some of you may be wondering "Why no 97.5 ESPN interviews"? Well it's simple, unless they have another website where the interviews are stored, I have no way of locating their interviews. Come on ESPN, we are in 2012, you are the biggest game ever and you cannot make the retrieval of your interviews more user friendly? Who knows, may be they have their interviews accessible via Facebook or some other tool but I was disappointed with the inability to retrieve their interviews.

Lastly, my respect for Matt Thomas went from nice to super. Matt Thomas took a call from SportsMK (fan), he explained Maurice Jones Drew may bump him. With Maurice Jones Drew in front of him, he allowed Sports MK to stay on the line and get out some smack with MJD. If this would have been (insert host name), they would have ejected SportsMK faster than you could say Tebow. The way Matt Thomas handle that particular situation was in one word, COOL.

OUT

LOCAL MEDIA AND ROCKETS ATTENDANCE "NON STORY" - LM

2012-01-29T19:38:00.001-06:00

LOCAL MEDIA AND ROCKETS ATTENDANCE "NON STORY"

Written By: LM

Only the trained eye could spot this but this is one of the topics I boldly tell the local media "get real". I would feel better if the media would come out and say, "this is a slow weak and we are just making the most of it" but when I hear Sports Radio 610 hosts make a topic of the Rockets attendance in January, it rings of lazy.

I was listening to the J& R show last week and the guys were asking the fans why are they not interested in the Rockets. I also her Mad Radio in addition to Paul Gallant on this very same issue. As I listened, I wondered to myself, can these guys really pull this off or will fans of Houston tell them to go "shove it".

REWIND

I will use Josh Innes and Rich Lord to debunk the Rockets attendance issue. I can remember listening to J&R back when the NBA lockout was lifted and this same show was saying how most fans do not get into basketball during the football season. I can distinctly remember Josh saying he do not get into basketball until after the football season. Was he wrong? No he was absolutely right, without any empirical data to support my argument, I think the Rockets attendance is clearly the norm. Most people I know truly do not get into NBA Basketball until after the All Star Game.

But what if I am wrong and data showed a steep decline in attendance? Well if that's the case it would be nice to have historical numbers to compare it too. I have not heard a single host in Houston tell me what the numbers were in 2010, 2009, 2008. In other words it would be really nice if attendance is a topic, the local media could cross compare it to prior years.

WRAP IT UP

I have been a Rocket fan all of my life and even in the glory years, I cannot ever recall the Rockets having a spectacular audience during football season. We are at the pinnacle of football season and we have hosts asking why the Rockets attendance is down.

I believe once the football season is over, the gradual interest of NBA basketball as a whole will increase. The funny part about this topic, based on the different takes I've heard all week, I was almost buying into the "Star Appeal" along with other reasons I heard levied.

Maybe there is some validity to the attendance but how can you have this conversation in Houston without including the recent success of the Texans or the NFL playoffs period. Rockets attendance becomes an issue if we are in April in the second or third slot and we are only getting 10K per game not in freaking January.

NON STORY

OUT

Email: hmw_lm@yahoo.com

RALPH COOPER, RACE CARD & THE ASTROS - LM

2012-01-26T09:35:00.001-06:00

ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

Written by: LM

Ralph and I come from the same stock better yet, we both are from Sunnyside and went to Evan E. Worthing High School. Ralph is much older than me and have seen more than I can dream of. Ralph Cooper has also built a base of followers. In terms of African American Sports, Ralph is pretty much your go to man locally. Like politics, agree or disagree with Ralph, if some influential wants to touch the masses of African Americans in the local sports landscape, Ralph Cooper is their man, That's cool.

DIFFERENT DAYS

Tuesday Ralph was joined by Craig Shelton and Vince Rashal. In normal fashion, Ralph went "edgy" by talking about race relations and the Astros. Ralph laid out the story of the day, Jim Crane announcing the new initiatives for the Astros but Ralph wanted to know why so few African Americans are on the Astros and the conversation morphed to African Americans interest in baseball period. Ralph made it perfectly clear he was not worried about anything else but Houston Astros.

Let me add, Ralph called me out during his monologue, asking what's my take but of course this would be the day I couldn't call. As I continued to listen, Craig probably did what everyone person with some knowledge of Astros organizational structure wanted to hear. Craig, brought up Tal Smith (former Astros President) and his tenure. Ralph defended Tal by saying he had teams with a lot of African Americans.

There it is, the discussion is laid out and we are about to have an old fashion race conversation.

Although I could not participate in the live conversation, I have a platform in which I can speak. From what I heard in the show, it seems as if Ralph is trying to say Astros do not have enough blacks for him but when asked about Tal Smith, he became apologetic or defensive, so to speak. Did Ralph just realize after Jim Crane took ownership the Astros had a small to almost no percentage of blacks? I will get back to the Tal v Jim Crane era.

Ralph's argument of less blacks on the Astros was flawed from the start in my opinion. Why in the hell would I care about black representation with the Astros when this is what I have seen all my life? I am no fool and I know the racial allegations levied on Jim Crane makes this topic somewhat interesting but I know Jim Crane or this new regime is doing anything different than the past regime. Now back to Tal, it was clearly evident during the show, Ralph has a relationship with Tal which blows the whole damn topic out of the water for me, charge up Tal, the man in charge for countless years. I feel it's wrong to wait til your "homeboy" who built the Astro's structure to depart then come at the new guy whom you do not have a relationship with. Is this becoming personal?

I understand Ralph to a degree but isn't this argument 5, 10, 15, or even 20 years late?

As far as blacks in baseball, I think this topic is so damn sensationalize in all media platforms. I am going to say this plain and simple, the sport is not sexy anymore. The game is too slow for me. I am not knocking those who gravitate to baseball and understand the intricacies of the game but it's not me. Ralph I cannot get mad at Caucasian people for blacks not liking baseball as much, I mean most blacks with physical prowess and the ability to make it in sports, wants to make money now. It's not feasible in most black people I know to make it to the Pros but oh yeah you have to play Minor Leagues to prove yourself. Most people I know wants to make money quick. It reminds me of a story of the kid from Las Vegas who dropped out school to pursue a GED in order to make it to the NBA quicker.

In addition to baseball, I don't like Nascar, Hockey, nor Soccer. From the little I know of Nascar, Hockey and Soccer, you can make a pretty good penny playing them too but we don't hear black advocates questioning the "black" interest. I wonder if there's a white sports personality boasting about the slim representation of whites in the NBA. Better yet, how would we feel if we heard something like that.

WRAP IT UP

Ralph has a very valid point about the Astros and African Americans but I question the timing. To be honest, I don't give a damn how the Astros run their organization, they lost me way before Jim Crane took over ownership. I can honestly say when it comes to the Astros I will dawn a cap or a jersey if they are doing well but the construction of the Astros or MLB does not surprise me.

As I conclude, everything is not racial and if the race is constantly thrown around without serious data and facts, it dilutes the struggle. Even if the Astros are employing racial tactics, what are you going to do about it? If you swing once, I will swing twice, I am with you if it's a valid fight but if it's a media massage, I can't get down with it. I am not trying to get down with the talking about it over hurt feelings because an organization did not pay homage to the Godfather.

OUT

1560 MORNING SHOW (SEAN AND JOHN) -LM

2012-01-25T09:21:00.000-06:00

1560 MORNING SHOW AND MARKET DYNAMICS:

Written By: LM

There are some interesting things on the rise in "morning talk" radio. On a local level, in terms of sports to entertainment ratio, I thought it was a done deal when Lance Zierlein moved to SportsTalk 790. In other words, while a listener of Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler on 790, I was a big fan of John Granato and Lance Zierlein on KGOW 1560. When Lance bolted to join Matt and Adam, I thought "welp, that's a done deal". Not so fast, grasshopper.

I remember it like it was yesterday only it was back in August. The day after Lance Zierlein wrote a post announcing his resignation from 1560, John Granato was on air almost doing an open mic with the fans remembering Lance's "best" moments. At the time, I can only imagine how John was feeling. Fans called with the good, but some fans also called and verbally ripped 1560 The Game for selling out to Corporate Pieces of Dung (CPOD).

Months after Lance's departure the Morning Show was getting by with "fill in hosts" such as: Sean Pendergast, Travis Rodgers, Richard Justice, and John Harris. I have been very vocal about the non-continuity at 1560, with the constant changing of schedules but during this particular stretch, it became a joke. It makes me wonder if Lance Zierlein gave them adequate time before his departure. The only way I can explain it is, if Lance thought of 1560TheGame as a "family" (he was with 1560 almost since it's inception and partnered with John for 14+ years), why leave them in a stinky situation. Without knowing exactly what happen as an observer of events, it do not appear Lance let them know in enough time in order to have a smooth transition however there's the other side, Lance could have very well let them know and 1560 dropped the ball.

In Houston mornings are pretty much (ratings):

Marc Vandermeer and John Lopez (610)
Mike and Mike in the Morning (97.5 FM)
The Big Show (790)
Sean Pendergast and John Granato (1560)

If Sean and John's Show catch fire, I wouldn't be surprise if they could put some strain on "The Big Show" numbers. I know "Gamers" may be thinking "if John and Lance couldn't how would Sean and John" . My rebuttal would be, the surge by 790 is by way of "Gamers", they are still fans of 1560 to their heart and if 1560 were to put something out worth a damn, "Gamers" will return home.

THE SHOW

As stated earlier, when 1560 was going through their merry-go-round of morning hosts, I was not interested. After about two months, 1560 made a decision, Sean Pendergast was to become the permanent fixture alongside of John Granato. Some can argue, all of the time spent substituting hosts was losing major ground in the midst of one of the best Houston Texans' runs. In other words, when Lance left, 1560 should have given the appearance of everything running smoothly by quickly sliding Sean Pendergast in. We don't have to over-think this, we do not like substitutes and we love continuity.

I like the 1560 Morning Show. I think Sean Pendergast is very knowledgeable and witty. As of now, I really can't pinpoint a weakness of Sean outside of not being a Texas/Houston native, but he has put work into this market long enough that his origin is almost a non-factor. I guess I can say another weakness would be is his gambling references. I think he goes to the gambling card too often and it would be cool if he took time to explain the lingo he's speaking of. As a guy who is familiar with "street life" and Las Vegas to a degree, some of the gambling lingo he talks about is even over my head. I would love to see him a take a moment every now and explain what some of the things he's talking about mean. No, he is not the only one in this market who utilizes the "gambling card", but if I am lost on some of it, I am pretty sure others are as well.

From what I have observed, Sean gets the most bang for the buck when he's alone. His development of topics are more fluent when he's alone and not interrupted by other show stakeholders.

John Granato is the comedian and this is not a jab, but I can't take John serious most of the times from his arsenal of pranks. John is basically the same as he were with Lance.

John Granato vs Doug Farrar?

Since when have you known John to go at a guest? Too funny, weekly contributor Doug Farrar join Sean and John as they were discussing possible places for Peyton Manning to land. Somewhere in the conversation Farrar opined that Peyton may not be a good fit for the Niners because Harbaugh wants a QB to run his system. John causally said "that's stupid", lol, well a pissy Doug took John's comments out of context and thought John was talking about him. John later explained he was talking about Harbaugh's decision in a hypothetical scenario to reject Peyton over a power trip. The next day, John stuck to his guns and did not apologize and I LOVE IT. Not sure if this was a joke but Dale (producer) said Farrar text him and expressed anger.

WRAP IT UP

I honestly stopped listening to the 1560 Morning Show because of the volume of interviews. The volume of interviews took away from the content in my opinion. There were way too many interviews for me to stay interested, but lately the interviews have been reduced and now I am listening again. Don't get me wrong, I am not knocking all interviews, but when you are conducting a high volume of interviews, it makes for bad radio.

There are still elements of 1560 I simply do not get and they are hit or miss with me, such as "Ling Ling and Gilbert". Some days it can make me chuckle, but most days I am wondering if I am the only person who thinks that this is not entertaining. In addition to, I have found myself changing the channel when they do "on the mobiles". It's not so much a bit, as it is audience participants trying to invoke themselves in the chemistry of the show. I applaud the fans' effort to a degree, but like everything else in life, too much of anything can be bad.

Now that I have got my gripes out of the way, if the 1560 Morning Show continues their current path, it could be a viable force in this market. All I ask, give me sports and make me laugh. I will not back down on my stance with the interviews, but I am willing to concede on what they are putting out there as entertainment because that's what they feel their listeners want.

All in all, Sean and John has given me another morning option. I can't listen to Marc Vandermeer and John Lopez because they are still feeding me milk when I need real food. I can't listen to "Mike and Mike" because I do not get down with "National Sports Talk". As it stands right now, it's a two-horse race between 790's "The Big Show" and 1560's Sean and John when it comes to the sports to entertainment ratio in the morning. I can say this much, when "The Big Show" goes to its hour-long stretch of "fart joke" humor, I instantly become an honorary "Gamer".

I think the stage is set between "The Big Show" and Sean and John. The next seven months (no Texans) will define one of these shows.

OUT

LM
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CRAIG SHELTON on w/LEMONT WILLIAMS (TV) "WHAT'S THE SCORE"

2012-01-24T18:38:00.001-06:00

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HOUSTON LOCAL PERSONALITIES SWAG METER (1.21.2012) - LM

2012-01-23T07:51:00.000-06:00

SWAG METER (1.21.2012)

I thought it would be pretty cool to look at local personalities, journalist and radios stations in a different way. Arbitron shows you collectively which station/shows are doing well but there are no public numbers to display personal likability. Thanks to social media websites like Twitter and Facebook, we can somewhat gauge the importance of an individual.

By no means is this scientific but it gives you a frame of mind what and who fans are digging. Given the space constraints, I have broken my samples into separate graphs in order to display everyone.

TIER 1

TIER 2

TIER 3

TIER 4

DATA SAMPLE

PERCENTAGE INCREASE (12.21- 1.21)

MILESTONES:

Lance Zierlein 11K
Allyson Footer 11k
Sean Pendergast 7K
Travis Rodgers 6K

Added

Brad Davies

LM aka SNOW BLACK

MAD RADIO AKA FUNERAL RADIO - LM

2012-01-18T08:30:00.000-06:00

MY TAKE ON MAD RADIO

Written By: LM

Although I have no contractual obligations nor any type of an affiliation with SportsRadio610, I have a keen interest on "MaD Radio" succeeding. I was the main proponent of dumping Jim Rome because I felt his craft was no longer getting the job done in Houston.

It was my belief that Jim Rome could be removed and anyone could be inserted locally and they would rack the numbers of Rome. The jury is out on the numbers, but in terms of the entertainment value, I may have been wrong. I think Gavin Spittle may have miscalculated with Mike Meltser and Brad Davies.

I have no beef with any of these guys, but their personalities simply do not get the job done. I could make the case that Matt Thomas' (SportsTalk 790) numbers may skyrocket when it's all said and done. I have been questioning myself if it has anything to do with their origins (not Houston nor Texas) and me not having that connection to them.

N.D. KALU

As I am writing this post, ND Kalu has only appeared on the show once. For those who do not know him, ND is not your "stats guy" nor is he just going to give you hard data as a former pro that's going to shock the world, but he's entertaining. Although the self-deprecating humor of ND gets to me, I have come to appreciate it for what it's worth - an entertainment piece. In other words, ND Kalu is needed on that show badly. Currently, his allotted time is Mondays and Fridays, but if Gavin doesn't make a change in that, it can get ugly. In my opinion, ND Kalu is the only thing about the show that makes me want to tune in.

J&R SHOW

Josh Innes is one of the few and maybe the only one in the media who will try to give the fans sincere "inside" to how media works. I am not saying Josh will give you a formal education in communications, but he makes an honest effort to tell you why certain things are the way they are. When Sports Radio 610 made the change, Josh was the only personality from 610 who tried to explain the move fully. Sure, most said that Jim Rome was not bringing in the numbers, but Josh took it a step further by saying that the "J&R Show" overall was doing well, but the 2 o'clock hour's numbers were not so good. Feeding off of the inertia of a local show "MaD" could possibly improve the 2 o'clock numbers.

Josh's idea is good in theory and I will be interested to see if it materializes, because I don't initially see the vision. As a professional radio listener, one of the things that irks me the most is the task of changing the dial. I'd rather stay put all day and listen, i.e., my past devotion to SR610. Premature as it may be, I can see Matt Thomas and Fred Faour/AJ Hoffman (ESPN 97.5) getting stronger from "MaD" radio.

BITS

This article is contradicting a lot of things I believe in terms of "good radio". One of the reasons I have gravitated towards John Granato/Sean Pendergast (1560 KGOW) and "The Big Show" (SportsTalk 790) is because these guys do not have a "bit" every 45 minutes. Good or bad, they actually trust their talents to intrigue the listeners. They are not using "fodder" to carry four or five hours of programming a show.

With that being said, "MaD Radio" may be one show that if new talent is not infused, I would be in favor of hearing "bits". If I have lost you on "bits", by HMW definition a "bit" is a useless segment that has nothing to do with sports with mediocre entertainment value, such as SR610's daily "celebrity birthday" bit on "The J&R Show". SportsRadio610 has mastered "bits" on both its "Morning Show" and J&R. Gavin Spittle may want to employ it with "MaD Radio", also.

Brad Davies

Tuesday, I was reminded of why I am not sold on Brad Davies. Brad Davies is beyond obnoxious, it's one thing when you are talking Barry Warner who know sports but Brad Davies is almost like John Lopez on steroids. I am not feeling how he aborts callers. Back in the ND and Brad After Dark Show I remember he was adamant about not taking calls, it was almost the running the joke. Then, I thought it was do to the nature of it being a weekend late show and they were afraid of the type of calls they would receive but hearing this guy in a "Prime Time" slot, it's almost the same. He is completely void of any type of dialogue with his callers but in all fairness, it's not only Brad Davies, that's the 610 culture. I really hate to generalize the whole station but there are only a few who will try to engage a caller, Josh Innes, ND Kalu, and Greg Koch but the rest, treat callers like "herded cattle". Back to Brad, when I hear him go into that arrogant want to be a "610 Baller" mode, I straight switch to The Big Show.

Mike Meltser

What can I say, he does his job. I feel Mike does his job however he lacks personality. I can trust Mike Melter's information, I never feel as if I have to double check his information. In terms of entertainment, the Mad is going against The Big Show (790), John and Sean (1560), Dylan Gwinn (790) and Matt Thomas (790), people we are talking about a time slot which is totally elastic. Mad Radio is probably in one of the most competitive time slots in Houston with many choices to choose from hence the elasticity.

WRAP IT UP

This article was hard to write because I think Mike Meltser is talented and I have no issues with Brad Davies, but from what I am hearing, the partnership is not enough to receive my full attention.

I guess I am spoil by the other stations (790,1560) in town but Sports Radio 610 seems to be the least interactive station in Houston. I am sure their talents will say "we read texts" but that is so damn controlled. It's almost as if 610 is too afraid to have an impromptu opinion. To be fair, Mike Meltser, Josh Innes and ND Kalu will address their "Twitter" questions but I have quickly picked up a pattern of Meltser "lol" after every tweet. I have more respect for "shows" who can communicate with their fans. All in all, in show, Mad Radio needs to do a better job on the social media front collectively.

I wish Gavin Spittle would have gone to a mix of not so bland and brought in some new talent. The acronym "MaD" stands for Mike and David and I understand the "wordplay", however, if I'm an "out-of-towner" by vehicle arriving in Orange, TX, traveling west and it's 9:30 am and 610 is running a promo for "MaD Radio", I would be expecting raw and crazy. When I hear "MaD Radio", it comes off as "Stoic" radio. The acronym of the show's name does not fit the product. Every now and then you get a spark of energy but it quickly return to "funeral" status.

One last point about "MaD Radio", the intro is very "soft". Although I am no longer a fan of Jim Rome, I must say his intro music is a staple and it gets you fired up. Craig Shelton and I were even talking about Dylan Gwinn's intro-music as being live. Instead of focusing on other stations, we can stay with the J&R Show with the "1, 2, 3 You Found it". I would suggest for Mad Radio to look into a high octane intro song.

When I learned of the news of Jim Rome, I sent Gavin Spittle an e-mail thanking him for the decision to go local, but I also said that I do not believe Brad and Mike is his end game. I truly believe Mad Radio is not set and Gavin will continually work on it to make it a decent product.

OUT

LM
HMW
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LOCAL MEDIA REALLY SPEAK FOR THE FANS? - LM

2012-01-12T08:43:00.000-06:00

Written by: LM

LOCAL MEDIA REALLY SPEAK FOR THE FANS?

This piece is short and to the point but it's actually a pet peeve of mind. First of all, when it comes to interviewing, I get more from local media than national media. It's my belief the local media is more in tuned with certain players unless we are talking "mega stars".

This year, the Houston Texans got major run with countless interviews all across the city, but I have picked up on a nugget. Is it me or when the local media asks local professionals an ""iffy" question, they always defer it to the fans? In case you are lost, it goes like this.

THE INTERVIEW

Local Personality: "Thanks for Joining the show Wade Phillips."
Wade Phillips: He drops a joke that's only funny to the media. "Butt Crack Stinks"
Local Personality: "Wade, we'd like to congratulate you on an awesome season. This team was ranked 30th defensively, and you have turned it around. You are a proven Defensive Coordinator and your record is second to none. Would you care to reflect on this season and what it took to turn this team around?"
Wade Phillips: He drops another dry joke that only the media thinks is funny. "Galleria traffic is exciting"
Local Personality: "Well Wade, I don't mean to be Debbie Downer but a lot of FANS are asking if.........".

Of course, my example is as far fetched as I can think while incorporating a recent story, but am I the only who gets pissed when the media diverts all of the hard questions to THE FANS? Of course they are too sophisticated to ask such a trivial question although they probably just wrapped up an hour-long discussion prior to their guest on the topic.

It would be easier for me to disclose the hosts who do not use this tactic than outing the ones who do. It's funny because a large portion of the media use this tactic of deferring to the fans when their is a controversial topic instead of asking the question "straight up". As a fan of sports, it just looks cowardly to see these personalities go to the "fan card" when asking hard questions.

On one hand, I like it because I know the media wouldn't even address it if they felt it was a dumb question, but on the other hand, I think it's a punk way to save face if the guest or his/her handlers thought it was a bad question. This is part of the reason I appreciate Mike Francesca (WFAN) controversial interview with Darrelle Revis (New Jets CB) following the Jets versus Dolphins. A lot of people thought his tactic was classless but he could have got away with it if he used the "Fan Card" tactic.

WRAP IT UP

All I am saying, I think it's "bush league" to bring on a local professional athlete and phrase the hard questions from the fans' point of view. As stated earlier, maybe it's me, but I have noticed an abundance of local personalities who will use this tactic. If you think about it, it's a "win-win" for the local host, he or she asked the hot topic question (which they really want to know) and the question is diverted to the "fan", if the guest takes offense to the question.

Funny how things occur, I wrote this article at the beginning of the week. Wednesday, during the change over between Dylan Gwinn and Matt Thomas, they were discussing this very topic in reference to Bobby Hebert's question to LSU's Head Coach Les Miles.

OUT

THE SPIRIT OF COMPETITION - ANGELO LAWFORD - 1/10/2011

2012-01-10T05:52:00.000-06:00

The Spirit of Competition

Written by: Angelo Lawford
Date posted: 1/10/2011

In reading Lamont Mann's commentary on the tension between sports talk hosts, Josh Innes and Lance Zierlein, on Twitter over this past holiday season, I noticed something said by Lance in response to the way the situation was handled from his perspective that caught my eye. He made reference to the fact of how he and John Granato did what they did and built what they built on SportsRadio610 during a time in which the city lacked a professional football team. I don't know if I am making a big deal about what caught my attention about that statement. Ten years of SportsRadio610 being the Houston Texans flagship station can make you forget that there wasn't always local football for us to discuss.

I just want to make a simple point and basically end that point with a question to and for the public in hopes that I can receive a little feedback. I am very curious about something. As we all know, football is the sports heartbeat of the city of Houston and state of Texas. So it is only fitting that once NFL football was given back to Houston, TX, that would drive the sports barometer as far as support and discussion goes. So as the Texans flagship station, it is only natural that SportsRadio610 would lead in sports talk ratings around the city even though many of the original flagship personalities from ten years ago have gone on to seek different professional local opportunities. Which really brings me to my point.

With Houston having four all-sports radio talk stations, I have to ask myself how can a city accommodate four stations that basically talk about the same things about sports? Why is that necessary? Four seems a bit excessive in my opinion. So I have to ask this question. IF the Houston Texans would have been a more competitive team early in the developmental process, would the radio personalities that were originally part of the flagship station radio team have sought out other local opportunities, if the Texans were actually good. Was a down Houston Texans organization the catalyst for people willing to make such a clean break from the flagship? It doesn't seem to make much professional sense to leave the radio home of the most important team in the city, unless that team is not very good. That is what I gather to be at least a part of the spirit of the competition between the local sports talk stations.

It seems that in a subtle way if not outright, the competing stations branded themselves as an unbiased option in Houston Texans discussion to separate themselves from the pack and most importantly, the flagship station. Therefore insinuating that the flagship station doesn't stray too far from the company line and usually tries to put the Houston Texans organization in the best light no matter the circumstances and results.

That radio competition model could only be realized by having the fact that the Texans hadn't been a good team in mind. So it just makes me wonder if the Texans had been a better team at an earlier stage in their ten year NFL life on the field, would Houston still be a four sports talk station town?

Angelo Lawford

HMW

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BRAD JORDAN AKA SCARFACE ON THE CUT

2012-01-08T18:42:00.000-06:00

WAY TO DO IT HOUSTON - GO TEXANS - LM

2012-01-08T11:47:00.001-06:00

Written By: LM

WAY TO DO IT HOUSTON - GO TEXANS

I attempted to write this article moments after the Texans game when I quickly realize my emotions would not allow me. I have been one of the most critical and avid fans of the Houston Texans but their first after the Bengals game, my fandom went from crazy to ludicrous.

As I recap, it hit me that it was not the game itself but the total atmosphere leading up to the game. For once it seems like media and fans were all on the same with support for our team. I did not attend the game but judging by the flurry of tailgate pics flowing in, I can only imagine what it was like.

I wanted to get a sense of the vibe via twitter by searching out Texans and Bengals. Before the game kicked off my Tweetdeck application crashed four times. The stream of tweets were running so fast I had to cancel one of the searches (Bengals). If that wasn't enough, I seen #GoTexans trending nationally and I tried to pull it up, my CPU came to a crawl. Saturday, the Houston Texans owned social media or at least Twitter.

Radio Stations

I have to give props to the local radio stations; earlier in the week, it was feeling as if their was no buzz but by Thursday, things quickly changed. Josh Innes and Greg Koch (J&R Show 610) kicked it off by calling a sports bar in Cincinnati getting the temperature of the city. They had some fun on the air with local with one local fan in particular telling Bengals owner Mike Brown to " Piss Off". Later in the show they learn of a Krogers Grocery Store in Sugarland that was selling "Go Bengals" tickets and effort ed to call the bakery. They were pretty ticked a store in Houston would be selling the enemies brand but they did make mention of Krogers' being headquartered in Cincinnati.

The Big Show jumped into action the next day. Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler (Big Show 790) during the show, they re-aired their interview with their national affiliate which is co-hosted by Artrell Hawkins former Cincinnati Bengal Defensive Back. Artrell was talking big smack and almost making Houston sound like a joke. I took offense to his take and immediately searched his twitter handle and threw some twitter jabs. Approximately twenty to thirty minutes passed and Artrell called Sports Talk 790 and cleared the air on where he stood in regards to the Texans because he felt his statements may have been taken out of context. The Big Show acknowledge they had nothing to do with the twitter beef but it was a few fans that took it upon themselves to tweet him. The best and weirdest part about Artrell Hawkins' call is when he alluded to not knowing Houston fans were that passionate about football. The Hawkins call was only a fraction of the fun as the remainder of 790's programming was almost exclusively dedicated to Smack Talk (both sides). For the most part, Texans ruled the airwaves but I was very surprise at the volume of Cincinnati callers who called in. Below is the call from Hawkins.

Artrell Hawkins Calls In 1-6-12: Artrell calls in after his twitter feed blows up from all our loyal listeners that heard Matt and Adam's visit on his show.

Friday, I was listening to Ralph Cooper (1430) and he was calling people house giving away tickets. He called one lady who damn near cried when he told her she was going to the game. Of course Ralph had stipulations on the give away, he required her to honk her horn and scream GO Texans when she got to the studio.

Sports Radio 610 Pre Game Show was probably one of the first times I can recall a radio program became visible. I was thoroughly impressed at the volume of celebrities who dropped by. It was almost like listening to the week of Super Bowl Radio Row. Freaking Sage Rosenfels stopped by and said his son asked to come see the Texans Playoff game for his Christmas present. I think just about every Sports Radio 610 got some air time as Brad Davies, John Lopez, and ND Kalu just played "Navigator". I was very jacked about Aaron Glenn's bold prediction of a ten point win (I called for a blow out) while everyone else were predicting a tight game. The Texans Pre Game Show felt like a reunion.

WRAP IT UP

BRAVO ZULU HOUSTON

LM aka Snow Black

HMW
Email: hmw_lm@yahoo.com
Twitter: HMW_CREEPS

MAD AT "MaD" RADIO - ANGELO LAWFORD - 1/6/2012

2012-01-06T06:45:00.004-06:00

MAD AT "MaD" RADIO

Written by: Angelo Lawford

Date posted: 1/6/2012

I am having a hard time digesting the new changes at SportsRadio610. It is not so much for the fact that I miss "The Jim Rome Show" more than I am confused by what they replaced "The Jim Rome Show" with.

It isn't even a knock on Brad Davies or Mike Meltser who now carry the burden of being the supposed local entertainment that SportsRadio610 and its radio consuming community so desperately needed and desired to have in order to compete with the other rival sports talk stations that have higher ratings with local hosts and topics compared to the nationally syndicated "Jim Rome Show", which was a fourteen-year staple of SportsRradio610.

"MaD" (aka "Meltser and Davies") Radio is what the powers that be at SportsRadio610 thought could bridge the ratings gap and level the playing field of that midday portion of the ratings game. Four days into the experiment, I can honestly say that I don't understand anything that has taken place within the last week as far as the decisions that were made to bring this venture to fruition.

Regardless of what you think about Jim Rome and "The Jim Rome Show", he has established himself to be an institution. Jim Rome has set the standard, which most sports talk radio hosts around the country follow. All you have to do is listen to any sports talk show and you can hear Jim Rome woven into the fabric of any generic show's DNA. So with that said, when you replace an institution and someone as iconic as Jim Rome, the replacement has to be as innovative as he was in my opinion. You can't replace something that is special with something that is rather ordinary.

MaD Radio?

I can't believe this is what the public really wants. What I am even more disappointed by is realizing that this move also limits the flow of information that we have access to via sports radio. I like having a national perspective of sports versus just local perspectives of our local sports community. How does it make sense to narrow your horizons in sports talk versus broadening them? I hope in other more meaningful outlets in life, the same rules don't apply. Nothing makes sense about suppressing your ability to be educated. If that is what the radio consuming public really wants, then so be it. But if that is the truth, then the consuming public has to be taken to task for demanding and begging to become somewhat narrow minded. But that could just be me.

What I have heard in four days of MaD Radio actually saddens me. I really do hate to be a critic since I don't have the pedigree to be able to tell others how they should be doing their jobs on the radio or behind the scenes in radio. But something just doesn't sit well with me personally about these latest events brought to us by the local sports talk leader. It seems like a move that was made out of desperation, which you wouldn't expect from the leader. It would make more sense if it were a move by a competitor. In the early stages of this experiment, SportsRadio610 has bitten their nose off to spite their face. But again, that is just my opinion.

Jim Rome "Clone"

I am interested to see what the local landscape will be like six months from now. Will Jim Rome have a new home locally? As the old adage says, you don't know what you had until it is gone. If Jim Rome should resurface in this Houston market, I would think he would be a force to be reckoned with once again. I still wish everyone involved with the changes all of the best. I would never want to see anyone in any capacity fail. So I personally extend my hope that the decision makers really did make the right and best decision. But as always, only time will tell.

Angelo Lawford

HMW

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JOSH INNES (610) vs LANCE ZIERLEIN (790) TWITTER FIGHT - LM

2012-01-05T07:57:00.001-06:00

JOSH INNES (610) vs LANCE ZIERLEIN (790) TWITTER FIGHT
Written By: LM aka SNOW BLACK

Before getting into my article, I thought it would be cool to get a word from both parties. Lance and Josh are strong in the market and their fans deserve a statement. Below are a series of questions I asked both guys and I thank them for replying.

JOSH INNES

1. Do you have a problem with Lance Zierlein?

I didn't. I have a problem with people who spread false information. I also have a problem with hypocrites and phonies.

2.. Any regrets in engaging in a twitter battle with another host?

I never regret telling people the truth. He attacked me. I responded.

3. Did you consider the $5,000 bet by Lance Zierlein.

If I had 5k laying around I'd be glad to do it. I'm broke.

4. Do you have a problem with Houston?

I honestly don't. I enjoy living here. I think it's a soft media market and the soft media market has produced soft talk radio. I question whether or not my style fits here. It's a unique market.

5. If given the chance to redo your image in Houston, would you do anything different?

I wouldn't. Why would I? I have to be me to be successful. I am honest on the air. I can't help what people think. I could be scared into being a phony. I could tell people what they want to hear. I don't believe in doing that. It's not fair to the audience to lie. It kills credibility. When people listen I want them to know that what I'm saying is what I believe.

6. Does it come off as Lance being envious of 610 for the ratings?

I don't want to discredit what he accomplished with Granato at 610. They were successful at the station and helped build it into the name brand that it is today. I don't claim to have created this name brand. I am glad to be part of it. I do question how successful they would be if they had to compete with 3 other sports stations.

Lance Zierlein

1. Do you have a problem with Josh Innes?

I have a problem with being called out on Twitter or on the air by another host that I haven't been talking about. Personally? I don't really know him so I don't have a problem with him.

2.. Any regrets in engaging in a twitter battle with another host?

To some extent, yes. I felt like it went on too long. There were some things that he said that I took exception to as he didn't seem to have his facts straight, but in the end, I probably need to carry myself in a more professional manner since there are people who follow me who have no interest in reading a "twitter battle".

3. Were you serious about the $5,000 bet with Josh? Would you really consider moving to the Drive Time slot to compete.

Absolutely. I have all the confidence in the world in my abilities and I would be more than happy to do that. Would my program director or GM be willing to allow me to do that? I don't know. I've been sold to advertisers as a morning host with a morning time slot and there are already hosts who work in the 2 PM (Matt Thomas) and 3-6 PM (Charlie Palillo) slots.

4. Is Josh an easy target being that most people dislike him?

I think so, but not because he is new in the market, but rather how he has carried himself. I don't think you can come into a market and not show the market or the town the proper level or respect. That would be true in any major city. I also think his willingness to broach topics other than sports probably gets some 610 listeners upset since that time slot has always been pretty no-nonsense regarding primarily sports talk. I don't have a problem with straying from just sports from time to time as you know. We all have lives outside of sports so I don't see a problem with it as long as it is done well.

5. How can you knock Josh and Rich's numbers when all stations to a degree are celebrating the Texans success in terms of ratings.

I don't knock their numbers. I just felt like he wasn't putting them into proper perspective. His numbers were way down before the lockout was lifted so I don't think it's smart to just hide behind current ratings. I also took exception to comments regarding whether or not I "existed" since my morning show isn't number 1. In this last book we were just a hair behind the 610 morning show so I would say that we have good traction and continue to build momentum as people find our new combination.

6. How do you feel about Josh's claim that you represent a time when there were less sports talk in Houston?

There were less stations, true. What he doesn't realize, however, is that sports talk as a 24 hour vehicle was still relatively new. We were BUILDING audiences and not trying to just maintain them. There were a ton of people in Houston who had never even heard of sports talk before they found us at 610. When I took over in the morning along with John Granato, we inherited a 1.2 rating and the station was 2.5 years old. Within a year, we had built that number into the high 2s and then into the 3.4 - 4.5 range. We were building as we went and creating a brand new set of listeners who are still listening today. A good analogy might be a restaurant. It is one thing to take over a successful restaurant and watch profits keep coming in and while you are the manager, but it is quite another to help open and grow it from scratch. That's not easy..... especially in a football town with no pro football and with the Rockets beginning to fade. Through all that, our numbers kept growing.

Thanks Josh and Lance for the timely responses

MY TAKE

Well this was eventually coming. With the changing dynamics in Houston Sports Talk Radio, it was only a matter of time before a ratings war would occur and would have thought Jim Rome's departure would have been the catalyst.

Listening to terrestrial radio is one thing but you get the "meat" on twitter. Who's to blame for this recent skirmish between Josh Innes and Lance Zierlein? Thursday, December 29, Josh Innes made a negative reference to another radio station during his show. If you were listening, no doubt he was talking about 790 but to be fair, he didn't mention them by name. A listener let lance know via Twitter therebye leading Lance to take a shot at Josh. Josh not being short of words replied and the fight began.

From there, the two guys exchanged tweets at each other taking a few jabs. Saturday, New Years Eve, they started up again. I am not sure what got into Lance but he raised the bar by challenging Josh Innes to a $5,000 bet if they were to go head to head in ratings. Lance alluded to being willing to move to the 2-6 hour to make this happen. Josh did not take him up on but tried to get clarity of the bet.

Although entertaining for a warm New Year's Eve while the big story was Texas A & M and Northwestern tearing up the field the Texan had to play on the following day, this was completely childish and weak. Both of these guys are members of the media who see each other from time to time around the city at various events, why finger each other when you can box it out? Ok, so I am a tad unorthodox in my ways of handling conflicts but if someone really had that much of a problem with me, it is what it is.

I believe Lance along with a lot of Houston fans are getting tired with Josh in particular throwing the ratings in their face every chance he can. With that being said, I cannot get mad at Josh, the object of the game is to crush the competition however you have to be willing to accept the backlash if you are coming at a popular personality.

I monitored the twitter beef and it was pretty one sided with the Sir Lance a Lots (Lance's crew) going after Josh. After about 2 hours with the majority of tweets (harsh) aimed at Josh, he finally pulled back before the language got way too vile.

What I take away from this twitter beef, an abundance of people seriously dislikes Josh Innes style. A while ago I can remember Craig Shelton telling Josh to "chill out". It is not in Josh's best interest to come into a city and build up a questionable image while knocking the city, it was only a matter of time, some in the city would would go at him. As far as Lance, it's not cool to hate on Josh because they are winning in the numbers, in my opinion. No matter how you parse this, it all comes back to the numbers. As long as Rich and Josh beat the competition and stations not even in their genre, you can't do nothing but accept it. The only way Lance can shut Josh's mouth is to beat them. All of the tweets and on air jabs in the world don't not mean a thing if you don't have the numbers to support the fight.

WRAP IT UP

I am the last person to tell another man to back down from a fight but I think Josh may have stepped into a hornet's nest. I would think a very controversial decision by Gavin Spittle (Program Director) to release Jim Rome and replace it by a new local show, the last thing he needs is negative sentiment aimed at SR610 as as a whole or individual talents. This sort of reminds me of sports cliches', "win with dignity", "act like you been there" etc etc. Big freaking deal you are winning, you don't hear Mike and Mike and Jim Rome saying they are kicking each others' ass. As hard as it is for me to give Rich credit, he's right, there's nothing cool in poking fun of your media peers. As far as HMW, hell this is cool, it's a story in line with what we do. Josh really asked if people knew Lance Zierlein exist? Although I think Lance is full of shit sometimes, I do realize he is very respected amongst his peers and to be frank, I think he stepped down a notch engaging in a fight.

As far as Lance, not cool to make yourself apart of Josh and Rich's success. Totally unnecessary to say J&Rs ratings somehow hinges on you going to AM time slot especially when you are not beating the guys you are currently going against. Not sure how many times Lance has to be told, his reputation speaks speaks for it's self, you do you. Lance is almost beginning to come off like a crackhead searching for that 610 "High" once enjoyed. Stop all the petty shit and grind. Instead of shooting at Josh, think of ways to beat them.

Follow Up

My article above was written immediately after the last engagement by the two and I didn't want to change anything because that's how it appeared to me, After conversing with both guys and receiving their it seems like much to do about nothing. It's obvious these guys have a certain amount of animosity towards each other. My advice to the two would be, if you didn't hear it for yourself to form your own opinion if a person is really coming at you, don't allow it to nest. As I received both guys responses and noticed both thought the other shot at them first, it rings to a whole bunch of "hear say". Unless it comes by way of HMW with audio, I wouldn't entertain it.

OUT

LM aka SNOW BLACK
Email: hmw_creep@yahoo.com

RALPH COOPER AND CRAIG SHELTON - SPORTS RAP

2012-01-03T19:09:00.000-06:00

HOUSTON'S TOP 20 SPORTS TALK PERSONALITIES OF 2011 - CRAIG SHELTON - 1/1/2012

2012-01-01T16:51:00.002-06:00

HOUSTON'S TOP 20 SPORTS TALK PERSONALITIES OF 2011

Written by: Craig Shelton
Date posted: 1/1/2012

When I first sat down to begin the process of determining my choices for Houston's Top 20 sports talk hosts for 2011, I went though a process of self-evaluation in regard to my own personal approach in scrutinizing those under consideration. Admittedly, when I initially began the process, my evaluations were laced with prejudices towards what I'll classify as "pet peeves" regarding what hosts did on air. But as I sat in the press box at the Texans/Raiders game at Reliant Stadium earlier this season, I was able to gain some clarity on how to evaluate our local sports talk hosts.

My criteria does include obvious attributes like overall knowledge; diction and delivery of content; overall entertainment value; presentation and preparation; caller and social network interactive content; as well as interview skills. Added to those areas of scrutiny, is what I determined to be the second most critical component to my process of evaluation.

"Overall entertainment value" is in my opinion the number one attribute in my process of determining Houston's Top 20 best sports talk hosts for 2011. The second most important component in my evaluation process is "determining how an individual sports talk host, performs in the 'role' he or she was cast in by their programmer".

Oddly enough, I was able to gain clarity as I sat in the Texans press box attempting to embed an acceptable resolution within my mind, in trying to understand what the hell I had just witnessed on the last play of the Texans loss to the Oakland Raiders in Week 5? (I still say Schaub could have made it!)

After watching Matt Schaub decide "not" to take the game into his own hands (or feet) and send the Raider bereaved party packing from Reliant Stadium on that eerie Sunday, it "punched me smack in the face!"

As I sat there ripping Schaub to shreds in my bullet points for my show, I realized my error in my method of scrutinizing Houston's sports talk hosts for my rankings.

Just as Matt Schaub could not be judged on what Mike Vick or Aaron Rodgers may have done it that situation, but rather on "his" attributes in the system he is given to work in, so should sports talk hosts be judged.

CONSIDER THIS?

Dan Mathews of SportsRadio610, is a good example to hopefully shed more clarity on my grading template.

Dan Mathews isn't a household name at this point in his young career, but he's off to a solid start. But if you were to take a closer look at all the tasks that Mathews navigates throughout a week of duties at SportsRadio610, his value increases immensely.

Dan Mathews excels in the role he's asked to play at SportsRadio610, a role the naked eye or ear of the average listener (and host) may just overlook.

David Nuno of 1560TheGame is another local host whose public appreciation probably isn't where it should be, due to him being used in a utility role with 1560 and Yahoo Radio.

Nuno has served in any number of on-air roles between 1560TheGame and Yahoo Radio, but It likely lessens his barometer of public appreciation in doing so. Well, in my format of evaluation, the Dan Mathews and David Nuno's of the world, get more of a fair shake in my evaluation process.

There's one other important component to my evaluation that should not be overlooked, so I saved it for last. I took into consideration the host's overall "impact" on the market as well. Meaning more than numbers generated in the Arbitron ratings format, I went looking for immeasurable attributes as well. I considered each host's contribution or impact on the local sports talk radio culture in the Year 2011. Rather that impact was "love 'em or hate 'em", if they were impactful, my format accounted for that intangible.

Do not underestimate the value of this component in my evaluation process! I hope this explanation of my grading template offers some clarification in my ranking process.

THE 2011 TOP 20 RANKINGS OF HOUSTON'S BEST SPORTS HOSTS

#1. Matt Thomas (SportsTalk790)
#2. Josh Innes (SR610)
#3. John Granato (1560/Yahoo)
#4. Lance Zierlein (SportsTalk790)
#5. Charlie Pallilo (SportsTalk790)

RANKINGS 1-5 COMMENTARY

The 1-5 rankings were by far the easiest for me to develop. The only struggle at all was some slight consideration to rate Lance Zierlein over John Granato. In the end, I felt Granato made a smoother transition after the breakup of he and Zierlein.

Granato was left for dead by many after he and Zierlein divorced, but Granato has sustained an entertaining product. Granato is great with sponsors and in delivering sponsor ads live.

Lance Zierlein has struggled to find his groove working in "The Big Show" format with Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler, but his overall talent is just too much of a force to keep out of the Top 5. In addition to Zierlein's raw talent, he's second to none in the market in delivering sponsor ads.

Charlie Pallilo is Charlie Pallilo, solid as they come. But the solo host format is a Jurassic concept in today's combative society in general. The fact that Pallilo has performed so well in such a dated format for this market, speaks volumes for his resume.

Josh Innes is a beast! The guy keeps it hot, love him or hate him. In fact, if not for his attacks on Houston and its listeners, he likely would have been #1. The fact that he hasn't figured that angle out, was enough for me to put Matt Thomas ahead of Innes in the final tally. You can't kill the client cause the customer is still always right when it comes down to it.

Matt Thomas is plain and simple the most entertaining sports talk host in Houston for 2011. Matt excels in his bedside mannerisms with the listeners, callers, and twitter followers. Thomas does a serviceable job delivering sponsor ads and is a gentleman and a true professional that should be acknowledged by his peers. (If he could just learn his route tree? #RouteTreeThomas)

#6. Sean Pendergast (1560/Yahoo)
#7. John Harris (1560)/Yahoo)
#8. Adam Wexler (SportsTalk790)
#9. Barry Warner (SR610)
#10. Mike Meltser (SR610)

RANKINGS 6-10 COMMENTARY

Developing the rankings for #6-10, was by far the toughest for me in this process. #10 Mike Meltser is a limitless talent assuming he becomes a bit less mechanical. His overall sports knowledge is excellent, as well as his diction, preparation, and delivery.

Love or hate "papa" aka Barry Warner, he's knowledgeable and not afraid to take an unpopular view and stick with it.

Adam Wexler and John Harris may be two guys I trust most for solid information. Both have limitations, and aren't suited for every work environment, but each is performing up to standard in their individual roles.

Sean Pendergast is another guy with an unlimited talent cache to draw from. Sean is knowledgeable, witty, and relatively balanced in his overall sports acumen. Sean is a rising star and may long-term find his niche in the national arena.

#11. Rich Lord (SR610)
#12. Dylan Gwinn (SportsTalk790)
#13. Marc Vandermeer (SR610)
#14. Brad Davies (SR610)
#15. David Nuno (1560/Yahoo)

RANKINGS 11-15 COMMENTARY

Rich Lord still appears to be in cruise control, but you can trust him to get you from point "a" to point "b", even if Josh Innes keeps grabbing the steering wheel. Rich's speaking voice is clean with elite diction that serves well as a sponsor representative. Rich is still driving the bus on the true biggest show in town!

Dylan Gwinn is the best example of the "impact" in the market I alluded to in my opening statements. He's not the most knowledgeable or best-prepared, but the guy moves the meter in his time slot. The Mighty Gwinn has dug in, and has done so in a climate where listeners are more acceptable to tabloid-like content. Gwinn is in as long as the local listener base remains in its present tolerance for unsubstantiated or laymen-like content. Gwinn is in Houston, and you have yourself to thank for that.

Marc Vandermeer and Brad Davies are kinda the same guy. Both have elite, clean deliveries. Both guys are safe ship navigators. Neither appears willing to give strong opinions, but Davies will offer up some meaningful angles on topics. Both are exemplary professionals that take on major roles in the Sunday production of the Houston Texans broadcasts. Two guys that are steady and safe within their assigned roles.

#16. Matt Jackson (SportsTalk790)
#17. ND Kalu (SR610)
#18. Greg Koch (SR610)
#19. John McClain (SR610)
#20. Brien Straw (SR610)

RANKINGS 16-20 COMMENTARY

I'll start this passage out with #20 Brien Straw. Obnoxious and agitating to state it plainly, best describes Mr. Straw. You won't know why you keep tuning in, but somehow you will, because he is always on the air. And that's where he qualified to make my ranking at #20. Straw is versatile and has been of great value under Gavin Spittles programming.

Generally speaking, it appears fans have soured on John McClain, by comparison to previous years. McClain was once a must-listen for most when he was on the air talking Texans football. It's my theory that John's popularity will always be directly connected to the success of the Texans. John's message doesn't really change, so if the Texans win, he'll be well received. If the Texans lose, he's a part of the "blame pool" as the team's beat writer.

Matt Jackson is serviceable in his role on "The Big Show" on SportsTalk790. Jackson does a good job interacting on the social network scene with listeners.

ND Kalu and Greg Koch of SportsRadio610, have both grown immensely in their roles as NFL specialists.

Kalu is surprisingly balanced outside of football, and has relevant content to add to NBA and NCAA basketball topics. Kalu has developed a welcomed knack of not sitting back and allowing uninformed hosts make ridiculous comments unchallenged. Kalu has also broadened his development into the realm of delivering solid sponsor ads. "So keep it gangsta folks, and get out there and eat some damned James Coney Island Hot Dogs".

Greg "Cookie" Koch is the ultimate common-sense analyst. Cookie won't go for the company line and is quick to integrate his layering skill set into a friendly, or not so friendly (Brein Straw) sports debate. Cookie is truly a "monster"! (Cheesy I know folks, but I couldn't resist.)

* HONORABLE MENTIONS

• Ralph Cooper:

Obviously there's a clear conflict of interest with Ralph Cooper and I working at the same station, so I omitted his name from these ratings. Obviously, with Ralph's resume of over three decades of service, his place is cemented in Houston's sports talk landscape. I'm stating the obvious, but the inclusion of Ralph Cooper in this ranking format would reshape the order of names listed.

• Marcus Coleman:

Again, an obvious conflict of interest with Marcus Coleman and I being co-hosts on KCOH (THE CUT), so I omitted him from my rankings.

Marcus Coleman is a former NFL defensive back with the NY Jets, Houston Texans, and Dallas Cowboys.

Marcus is growing as a talent in the Houston sports talk community who has a knack for honesty. Marcus will speak freely and honestly and isn't afraid to offer more than the "company line" that most athletes turned talk host normally fall back on. Marcus Coleman and former Green Bay Packer, Greg Koch of SportsRadio610, have similar qualities in their willingness to speak honestly.

• Max Edison & Jerome Solomon

Max Edison and Jerome Solomon are both sports writers for Houston print media sources. Both Edison and Solomon are seasoned on-air talents that make guest appearances around town, but have yet to land as regulars with a local station.

Max Edison writes for the Houston Defender, and is one of the most knowledgeable sports minds in the business. Edison is best known for his forwardness and brash combative delivery on radio. Edison has a deadly counter jab for any comment thrown at him, so get your facts straight when debating any sports topic with Max Edison.

Jerome Solomon writes for the Houston Chronicle, and has a solid reputation locally as an on-air talent. Solomon's critics will allude to his condescending delivery on air at times, but that's part of the draw for me personally. Solomon doesn't back down, regardless of the backlash targeting him or his opinions.

Both Max Edison and Jerome Solomon were omitted from my rankings mainly due to neither getting enough on-air time in my opinion to be gauged fairly. It's my opinion both are worthy of full time on-air opportunities in this market.

• A special acknowledgment to Adam Rapp, the host of SportsRappLive (@SPORTSRAPPLIVE) scheduled to air on SportsTalk790 in January 2012.

If I were to give an award for "Grinder Of The Year" or the "GTY" trophy for 2011, it would go to Adam Rapp. Adam has worked tirelessly over the past year on his underground/online sports talk show and it appears to be paying off. Congratulations to Adam Rapp and the SportsRappLive family! This is a full time talent just waiting to happen!

OTHER HOUSTON SPORTS TALK PERSONALITIES CONSIDERED:

LOCAL2SPORTS:
Adam Clanton

SPORTS RADIO 610:
Capt. Mickey Eastman
Joe Pogge
Shaun Bijani
Norm Miller
Joe O'Donnell
John Lopez
Nate Griffin
Paul Gallant

97 5 ESPN:
Carl Dukes
Fred Faour
Dave Tepper
Julie Takahoshi
AJ Hoffman
Anson Ainsworth
John Wessling

1560 THE GAME/YAHOO RADIO
Ken Hoffman
Brooke Bentley
Richard Justice
Travis Rodgers
Robert Neagli
Craig Shemon
Vince Rachal

On behalf of HoustonMediaWatch.Com, I'd like to wish all of Houston's sports media a safe and prosperous 2012.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Craig Shelton
HMW

Follow On Twitter @: http://www.Twitter.Com/LesbianCraig

Facebook Search: Craig Shelton & Hmw Shelton & Join Both Pages

JIM ROME GONE FISHING WITH KENNY SMITH - JO

2011-12-31T11:01:00.000-06:00

IS JIM ROME STILL A HOUSTON FAVORITE (ONE YEAR LATER)? - LM

2011-12-28T20:24:00.002-06:00

Written By: LM

12-28-2011

When Mike wrote about 1560 AM welcoming Travis Rodgers to the lineup, it got me to thinking. I can remember a few years ago when Jim Rome announced that Travis would no longer be a part of the team, I didn't think much of it because there was nothing to think about. Jim Rome was considered the "cream of the crop" in Houston. Fast forward, the dynamics have changed in Houston.

Everyone knows that Houston is Jim Rome's adopted city. On numerous occasions you will hear Rome say Houston was one of the first major markets that gave his show a chance and for that he is thankful. Back in the Travis Rodgers' era with Rome, Houston had less Sports Stations now we have four. In addition to, back in those days Jim Rome had Houston on lock from 11AM - 2PM. There is a change of atmosphere in Houston with regards to Jim Rome's Show.

The Jim Rome Show is SR610 AM National Show and as mentioned before everyone use to listen to it, but lately I have been hearing people say they don't listen to Rome anymore. I have also noticed when I am listening to Matt Thomas (790 AM) or Sean Pendergast (1560) fans are tuning in to their shows. I have heard everything from Rome is arrogant to it's dull to he only take calls that kiss his ass. I myself use to be a fan, but in the last two years I only listen during the Smack Off.

I stop listening faithfully after the Cablinasian's last Smack Off win. I did not like the fact that Sean "The Cablinasian" could not participate in later Smack Offs because of "radio loyalties". The Cablinasian is a current employee of Yahoo Sports Radio which is a competitor of the local affiliate which houses Jim Rome's Show. I don't listen because I prefer local programming over National. The minute other options became available, I stop listening to Rome. It's very hard for me to listen to National Shows because I don't feel I have a connection with them as I do with "local talk". Now my choices are Matt Thomas and Sean Pendergast.

ONE YEAR LATER

The above passage was written over a year ago with minor changes. At the time the article was written, I felt local competitors of Jim Rome would eventually benefit because people are not feeling Rome anymore in Houston. The only time I listen to Jim Rome currently, is when Houston in some form is being represented on his show: guest host, story, local players. I would not be surprised if Houston listeners habits are identical to mines.

Is Jim Rome's Show really bad or is it listeners naturally gravitate to local shows? The one personality who benefited from Jim Rome Houston decline is Matt Thomas (790). As mentioned with Jim Rome, does this mean Matt's shows is good or people prefer local? For what it's worth, I like Matt's Show.

As long as Sports Radio continue to air Rome in that time slot, we will continually hear people tune in to Matt Thomas.

WRAP IT UP

There are a couple interesting things I see at play here. It appears Gavin Spittle should probably consider moving Rome to overnights and close the deal with another local show in that slot. There is no surprise Sports Radio 610 is enjoying record ratings when over 75% of their programming is local in addition to the Texans being good. We all like to say 610's ratings are high because of the Texans but I am beginning to think that's an incomplete statement. Instead of only notating the Texans how about including the fact, if you are a Texan during football coupled with a good product, at any given point the majority of the time, you can turn on 610 and hear something about the Texans?

For the life of me, I do not understand what's so hard to understand about this. There is more than enough local talent to support all four stations in this town but three of the four stations want to continue this antiquated form of programming. They really believe local programming is a farce at nights and weekends, the people don't listen and meanwhile Sports Radio 610 is signing 10 year deals with the Texans.

Wow is all I can say, JIM ROME gone? Although I am not overly excited about MAD (Mike Meltser and Brad Davies), it is local therefore I will listen. All I have to say to Bryan Erickson, my letter to you just became a tad more tangible. QQ

David Barron: Houston Chronicle
Jim Rome Out/ Sports Radio 610 New Lineup

OUT

HMW

Blog Link: http://www.houstonmediawatch.com/
Email: hmw_lm@yahoo.com
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RALPH COOPER w/ CRAIG SHELTON & VINCE RASHAL 12.27.2011

2011-12-28T11:31:00.000-06:00

RALPH COOPER w/ CRAIG SHELTON & VINCE RASHAL 12.27.2011

FIVE DEADLY VENOMS OF LOCAL SPORTS TALK - LM

2011-12-25T14:46:00.003-06:00

FIVE DEADLY VENOMS OF LOCAL SPORTS TALK
Written by: LM aka SNOW BLACK

One of my favorite Kung Fu movies of all time is Five Deadly Venom. Centipede, Lizard, Snake, Toad, and Scorpion. As a kid back in the days, I would watch this movie in awe as all of these animals/characters were unique but possessed one common element, poison/venom figuratively.

Quite often, I am asked who's my favorite personality and I realized it's a permeable question because it changes with the climate of sports. At some points, my "favorite" could be going through a dry stretch or maybe I done bust their ass on HMW and they are acting shady. Therefore instead of outlining my favorite personality I want to look at the personalities in a different way.

As stated earlier my "favorite" changes like a stripper and panties so I am approaching this article like American cities. I have done some traveling in my time and what I have realized, there are five unique cities in America and all others are just that CITIES. Los Angeles, New York City, New Orleans, San Francisco and Albuquerque. If you ever had the chance to visit any of the five, you know you are in something different. In other words, your Houstons, Philadelphia, Seattles, Miams, Atlantas they may have their own culture but for the most part, there's really nothing to distinguish them apart for another city.

There is a reason Prince, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Nicki Minaj are so far off the charts in the "different" category, they want to separate themselves from the normal entertainers. The same mindset apply to radio personalities, non of these guys want to be defined as "the Norm". In my opinion it's one thing for a fan to label a person "the best", it's a lot more special to be labeled as unique. All of these guys work in a competitive environment and while favorite makes them feel good, unique personality makes them feel great.

A little disclaimer, just because you are unique, does not make you good. This is only my way of recognizing personalities by saying when I hear them I am not hearing the same old thing. Like them or not they bring an entertainment value to the table other personalities are not.

Dylan Gwinn (Sports Talk 790) - Snake

Let me begin by saying, I do not like Dylan's style. I think his whole style is crafted as an obnoxious fan. That's it in a nutshell. Dylan's obnoxious style is what catapulted him in this article. Dylan's show prep consist of listening to local radio stations and coming on air saying what he read on message boards when it's really other shows he's taking about. Dylan has a way of getting his audience upset thereby leaving Matt Thomas as the clean up man. Dylan is also unique in the fact, he is one of the few personalities people will call and openly voice their displeasure with him. What really makes Dylan unique, he's combative (if it's not HMW). Dylan approaches his show to battle.

Dylan is a very polarizing personality in Houston. Either you love him or you don't. There is no in-between when it comes to Dylan. I have learned when listening to Dylan, just remember this is only sports.

Lastly, and this is a good thing, he is unique because I believe he is the only veteran on air and I always have to give props for service.

Josh Innes (Sports Radio 610) - Centipede

Josh would be the example of me liking a personality in different climates. If you really think about it, although different, Josh and Dylan are very similar. Josh is the only other personality I hear fans calling in to openly criticize but Josh gets the edge because he knows radio. He know how to massage criticisms to his benefit and make fun of himself. In away I almost feel Josh do things on purpose so you can dislike him. His approach to the situation is, "anything for the bit" in other words, if being a jackass is going to net a larger share then lets go. When it comes to his "on air" persona, he simply do not have a filter and wants to push it to the limit.

We all know what really makes Josh Innes unique, it's the reputation he has built as being metro-sexual (and that's being nice). When he goes into the feminine side of Josh, this is the point I turn the dial. I don't give a crap about a man's sexuality but Josh has an uncanny way of pushing it on you as if he want you to flat out call him gay.

In addition to, he will go out of his way to pump this fabricated comparison between Louisiana v Texas in any and all capacity. If it's not the Saints, it's LSU, if it's not LSU, it's New Orleans. Those are valid comparisons, if you are a person who cares but this dude became weird to me when he compared natural disasters. Back in the day he would shoot callers down who brought up Hurricane Ike. I can recall several times Josh making the comment "Ike don't even compare to Katrina". You know something, this could be an article alone since my home was destroyed by Ike but I will not go there. With all of that being said, he entertains me and is learning to show a more normal side. I think he is wicked talented on radio and will try to destroy you if you are the competition. From all accounts, he comes off as a team player and tries to elevate those around him.

When I listen to Josh Innes, there is one entertainer who comes to mind, Andy Kaufmann. Andy was before his time and did not understand why people didn't find the humor in what he was doing but years later he is almost herald as a genius.

Lance Zierlein (Sports Talk 790) - Toad

In an earlier article I described Lance as the Wizard in Wizard of Oz and all of us are the scary group afraid to speak to him for his perceived wisdom (sports). I like Lance, you are not going to miss LZ when it comes to the nuts and bolts of sports. Although, he is a wiz of sports, I have found him some bullshit elements in his game and I believe his status in this city is so damn high, most don't even question it. I feel he is one of the only personalities in this city who draws on the fact he has sources and he goes to that well a little to often for my liking. My goodness every damn thing don't have to be sourced. I can't hate on his connection and it's impressive he have contacts but I think he use it too much.

Lets leave the realm of sports and venture into those parts which really makes him dynamic. Lance is Houston in terms of sports, there are not too many elements of sports in the City of Houston you are going to miss Lance on. He knows the city of Houston. However if the sports is not working, he can lean on his comedic talents (multiple personalities).

Lance is the opposite of Josh and Dylan, where they have accepted their roles as the villain, Lance actually wants to be liked. Not too many times I have heard Lance go out of his way to make a caller, tweeter, texter look like a jackass. While being different than Josh in one aspect, he's very similar Josh in another, Pop Culture. It's always fun to hear a person who can relate back to old and new school pop culture.

When I listen to Lance Zierlein, there are three characters I equate him to. Carrol Burnett, Martin Lawrence and Phil Hendrie. All three characters are beyond talented in leaving their zone to develop some of the most epic characters.

Barry Warner (Sports Radio 610) - Lizard

If you were on vacation and driving through Houston at 8pm and just by chance happen to be listening to Sports Radio 610, you would literally think you were in New York City. Barry Warner's voice reminds me of a NYC cabbies fresh off a hard whiskey binge with two packs of Marlboro reds. Barry probably has the most unique voice on the air.

Barry like Josh possess the trait of not allowing you to like him or coming off as an asshole but it's clearly by design. There are times I have called to agree with Barry and by the end of the call, I am left wondering "how in the f*** did that just turn into an argument". I say Barry's on air personality is by design because when you meet him, dude is energetic, engaging, and down to earth.

Barry Warner is one of the few personalities in this market who will actually ask the coaches and players "water cooler" questions. He has taken some heat for this in some instances but I like it because I don't care to hear "the norm".

This portion can't be written without mentioning his ability to pull some of the "Houston Favorites". Roger Clemens, Earl Campbell, Rudy T just to name a few. Chances are, other personalities in this market interviewed these very same people but what makes Barry's interviews so unique, they come off as intimate. When Barry is talking to these people, you almost get the feel they are friends in a bar. Barry actually know the people he interviews.

Ralph Cooper (KCOH 1430) - Scorpion

Well for one thing, hes black, aint too much of that in this market in a prime time slot. Seriously, outside of Carl Dukes, Ralph is literally a one man army. We are not talking the 70s, 80s which he worked in, we are talking 2011, only two black men on air in a regular role. One can look at this as an accomplishment for Ralph's duration or if you are like me, you think "this is pathetic, this is 2011". A city where 20% of the population is black, sports where it's more than 50% black and the radio "gods" still can't get it right.

Ralph is the only one in this market who take on Social Issues. I know it may rub some people the wrong way but he don't care. It's almost as if it's his duty not to allow people to forget exactly how bad things were in sports and not to take anything for granted that's afforded to you. I must admit, I get a tad upset when he plays on the old school versus new school card as if back in the days, his generation had more class than ours.

What really separates Ralph Cooper from any and every other talk show personality in Houston? In a time and market where everything is doggy, Ralph really wants to help people. It's one thing for a person to talk about what they did or planning to do, Ralph is the only one I know who goes out of his way for the youth. I personally know basketball players from the 80s and 90s who know Ralph not as a radio personality but "that dude who puts on the basketball tournament". I think of all personalities currently on the radio, he will likely be the most remembered because he touched many people on a personal level outside of radio.

Wrap it Up

There you have it, my five deadly venom aka five unique sports personalities in Houston. as stated earlier, I am tired of saying who's the best I would much rather identify those who separates themselves from.

I think my homeboy Craig Shelton could have been in this least but I neglected to include him for obvious reasons but you definitely not going to hear another personality in this town like him. Another personality who was on the outside looking in, Sean Pendergast, very professional, articulate, sports mind and don't act like he's above his audience.

FIVE DEADLY VENOM

OUT

LM aka Snow Black

HMW
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NFL REFEREE JEROME BOGER & CREW "COLOSSAL FAILURES" - LM

2011-12-23T19:14:00.000-06:00

Written By: Snow Black

12-23-2011

JACKASS JEROME

I am going to jump in head first, the NFL officiating of the Texans versus Colts Thursday Night was atrocious. I can take getting my ass beat, I mean I'm a Texan. What I cannot take is being jabbed by the refs. NFL Referee Jerome Boger, he is enemy number one and I don't care about letter of the law and rules. Jerome and his crew flat out determined the outcome of a win or loss. I just wanted to key on (2) plays in particular, the Chaon full nelson on Joseph and the Glover Quinn breathing on a Colt receiver. Below is the video.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON

As far as the Local Media, I don't know if there is an unspoken code of not calling officials out but I swear if I hear someone say "I am not the one to whine about officiating, BUT". Man what's the deal, y'all have eyeballs, y'all seen what America saw. It's nothing wrong with blowing a gasket on BS calls. You are not whining, in fact you may garner more love from your audience. All day Friday I listened to a media who tried everything in their person not to elaborate on the officiating determining the outcome of the game. Hear me out, they talked about officiating but it was like a sidebar when to me that was the main story. Man we are talking about a playoff bye and media trying to analyze the game when we were cheated. I am not singling anyone out because I understand professionals trying to conform to objectivity. I am not advocating anyone writing a letter to the NFL but man, they could have simply been a fan. All Thursday night I was retweeting National sports pundits echoing the officiating of the game.

Last but not least, I have been one of the loudest opponents of this new NFL officiating. I don't see how you tell 2 to 3 hundred pound barbarians to become tinkle bells. The Subjectivity in NFL officiating is making the game a football an event not a sport. It's almost like they are marketing this great game to females and men are a bonus.

OUT

LM aka SNOW BLACK

HOUSTON LOCAL PERSONALITIES SWAG METER (12.21.2011) - LM

2011-12-22T08:18:00.001-06:00

SWAG METER (12.21.2011)

TIER 2

TIER 3

TIER 4

DATA SAMPLE

PERCENTAGE INCREASE (11.25 - 12.21)

MILESTONES:

John Lopez 3K
Josh Innes 3K
Marc Vandermeer 4K
Sports Radio 610 4K
Jerome Solomon 5K
John McClain 26K

Removed

Richard Justice
Brian Straw
Charlie Pallilo

Added

Brooke Bentley

LM aka SNOW BLACK

LETTER TO SPORTS TALK 790 BRYAN ERICKSON (REALIGNMENT) - LM

2011-12-20T10:28:00.001-06:00

Dear Bryan and Al,

Of the four radio stations in Houston of the Sports Talk Format, 790 is the most sensitive. Instead of sitting with your lip poked out because HMW wrote about Matt Thomas "Route Tree",hear me out. Currently, my listening habits are geared towards 790 until the evenings when I switch to other stations but that's OK because I have came with solutions not only problems.

Since Lance's arrival I have been thinking if LZ alone would be enough to compete with 610, the answer is no; we do not need to look at the numbers. Bottom the addition of Lance while good is not enough, 790 has to dig deeper.

Here is my Sports Talk 790 reorganization. Move the Morning Show back to the standard time slot of 6-10a. I only say standard because that's what most fans in Houston are accustomed to. No need to get all cute with the 2 host for 1 hour, 3 host for 3 hours, etc etc. In addition to the standard time slot, reduce the Big Show by 1 person. I do not know who would be the sacrificial lamb but I do have a plan for that person. True, we have not seen a full year of the Big Show to call it a failure but we are talking about maximizing the station as a whole.

If the Morning Show is pushed back to 10AM, that would mean Dylan Gwinn's slot would return to 10-Noon however it wouldn't be manned by Dylan Gwinn but he shouldn't worry, no one gets the ax in this reorganization. This next move will require guts, but I would look to 1560 AM and bring in Sean Pendergast to man the fort from 10 -Noon (local). The inertia built by the Morning Show would be perfect for Sean to run with and we all know Sean is coming with energy and intellect. OK, I can fully understand not wanting to poach Sean but option B would be Jerome Solomon. Actually the case can be made to go after Jerome first but I'm no fool, Jerome just don't fit that demo Clear Channel seeks. I wouldn't mind hearing Jerome Solomon in a full time capacity and plus he knows his sports and he can relate to the urban music your station frequently bump back and guess what else? He's black. Honestly, Gwinn could remain in that slot because he's currently drawing the numbers but I think you get extra pop from Sean with the whole Jim Rome connection.

Matt Thomas Show, no need to mess with it. It's perfect and slotted right.

As far as Charlie Pallilo, I have been told by my friend Craig Shelton (1430 AM), Charlie prefers to work alone however in my reorganization, the one person from the Morning Show would be partnered up with Charlie. Charlie is a competent good personality but he alone can't go against Josh Innes and Rich Lord. I believe you need to fight fire with fire. If 610 is going to go old and young then you match wits and slide Matt Jackson in with Charlie. By Matt's own admission, he prefers to work afternoons-evenings. We know he has the experience in addition to being a contributor of decent numbers when partnered with Rich Lord (Drive Time Players). For those who say, the numbers are more of Rich than his co-host, I would have to disagree because the Robert Henslee failed. Of course I am basing this without the Texans success which contributes heavily to 610s numbers. As mentioned earlier, if Charlie still want to go at it "One deep", don't even bother because you can really get creative.

Dylan Gwinn is manning The Mighty After Dark, that show would be extended with the addition of the person cut by the Big Show. Again, you have to match wits, 610 has a controversial Barry Warner partnered with an emotional Shaun Bijani. Dylan and Matt Jackson would work to a degree but I don't think they would have the knowledge that Barry would bring in addition to the interviews Barry would yield but at least it leaves a local option.

This is my own selfish reorganization in attempt to get more local programming. In addition, I would really consider totally revamping the weekends. All in all, when 790 didn't nail the Texans to the contract, I think there should have been a contingency plan, you know like programming the weekends since 610 are broadcasting college and professional games hardly anyone in Houston care to hear. We want to hear personalities and I think 790 missed a prime opportunity to capitalize at the height of listening-ship. But hey, I am just a BLOGGER

OUT

Sincerely,

LM aka Snow Black

BARRY WARNER (610 AM) WELCOMES CRAIG SHELTON - VERY ODD COUPLE

2011-12-18T20:22:00.000-06:00

GOVERNOR RICK PERRY REMOVED THE CURSE FROM HOUSTON TEXANS - LM

2011-12-16T12:44:00.001-06:00

For the last couple of weeks, I have been trying wrap my head around the Texans. When I observe the Texans and the obstacles they are having to overcome, it simply do not make sense to me. Let me approach this another way, before the information/technology period suppose I was in the military away from and returned mid December. Without knowing their record, I ask my brother "how are the Texans" and he begin to layout everything that has happen to the Texans thus far, my following comment would be "we better do something in the draft".

Well over the last week I have taken my conspiracy theory to the "Gods", yes I am talking about the Big G. With all of this TIm Tebow miracles occurring it forced me to approach the Texans in a different way. I watched the Republican debate and seen Texas Governor say "he wants to pull a Tim Tebow in the Iowa Caucus" and that's when it hit me. Rick Perry remove the curse from Houston but now it's on him.

RELIANT STADIUM

Do anybody remember August 6. 2011, I do only because I got caught in the traffic. Governor Rick Perry and several members of the clergy conducted a prayer in Reliant Stadium. Early August Governor Rick Perry removed the curse from Houston Professional Football. I do not want to get all religious but according to the movie the Exorcist, once you cast out a demon from one vessel it hops in something else. The Curse of Houston Football jumped inside of Rick Perry's Campaign.How else do you explain the mistakes made by Rick Perry.

Chron.com Write Up on Prayer

All in all, I like to thank Gubner Perry for taking one for the team.

OUT

LM aka SNOW BLACK

THE LOCAL MEDIA THROUGH ARIAN FOSTERS EYES w/DAVID NUNO - LM

2011-12-14T18:03:00.000-06:00

No, Arian Foster is not a member of the CREEPS aka Houston Media Watch. With that being said, HMW should recruit him.

Tuesday evening, I was listening to David Nuno (1560 The Game) (6P), he was interviewing Houston Texans Tackle Duane Brown when suddenly another Texans made a surprised appearance. It was Houston Texans' Running Back Arian Foster. My guess is this was staged to a degree but it was entertaining. During the segment David asked Arian Foster to play "MEDIA" by asking Duane Brown questions.

ARIAN FOSTER AS "MEDIA GUY"

First of all, this was all "fun and games" but yet so important. HMW is not a fan of "SPORTS MEDIA GUY". Sports Media Guy has found away to transform sport to to any and everything but sport. Houston Media Guy will tell you in a minute that fans do not care about sports 24/7 they prefer fodder. As a Professional Listener, I am trained to listen to radio and make observations of what's being conveyed. Back to Arian, when Nuno passed the reins to Arian Foster to be Houston Media Guy, Arian literally asked Duane Brown 1 Sports related question before ambushing him with several personal non sports related questions I as a productive member of the society can give a damn about hearing, I don't give a damn about a professional player's IPOD or his/her political takes etc.

DAVID NUNO

ARIAN FOSTER AS MEDIA GUY

Backlink

I know this is only a bi-product of the "information" age but there is a reason my all time "GREATS": Hakeem, Irvin Johnson, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Bo Jackson, Larry Bird, Joe Montana, Barry Sanders, Earl Campbell and Roger Clemmons I still love to this day. During these guys playing career for the most part, they were not involved in all of the non sports crap.

Bottom Line, I don't care about non sport's information at all when I am tuned in to listen to sports. Prime example, I love Spencer Tillman takes but when he's on 1560 The Game, he is talking about football however when Spencer is on Fox News Cable Network he is talking about Political Policy.

All in all, I think sports talk is alienating one key friend, "sport". Arian Foster's quick skit pretty much outlined what most professional athletes think about the media who's covering them.

To current media, sports is secondary and non sports content is primary.

OUT

HMW

SPORTS RADIO 610's MVP !!! - LM

CALL SCREENERS GONE WILD "SPORTS RADIO 610" - LM

THE EVOUTION OF A NATIONAL HOLIDAY: WHEN SPORTS CROSSED THE LINE - JEFF ROY - 2/5/2012

WHO HAD THE BEST SUPERBOWL INTERVIEWS ON RADIO ROW -LM

am·i·ca·ble

Dhani Jones w/ Matt Jackson, Adam Wexler, & Lance Zierlein - BIG SHOW (790)

LOCAL MEDIA AND ROCKETS ATTENDANCE "NON STORY" - LM

RALPH COOPER, RACE CARD & THE ASTROS - LM

1560 MORNING SHOW (SEAN AND JOHN) -LM

CRAIG SHELTON on w/LEMONT WILLIAMS (TV) "WHAT'S THE SCORE"

HOUSTON LOCAL PERSONALITIES SWAG METER (1.21.2012) - LM

MAD RADIO AKA FUNERAL RADIO - LM

LOCAL MEDIA REALLY SPEAK FOR THE FANS? - LM

THE SPIRIT OF COMPETITION - ANGELO LAWFORD - 1/10/2011

BRAD JORDAN AKA SCARFACE ON THE CUT

WAY TO DO IT HOUSTON - GO TEXANS - LM

MAD AT "MaD" RADIO - ANGELO LAWFORD - 1/6/2012

JOSH INNES (610) vs LANCE ZIERLEIN (790) TWITTER FIGHT - LM

RALPH COOPER AND CRAIG SHELTON - SPORTS RAP

HOUSTON'S TOP 20 SPORTS TALK PERSONALITIES OF 2011 - CRAIG SHELTON - 1/1/2012

JIM ROME GONE FISHING WITH KENNY SMITH - JO

IS JIM ROME STILL A HOUSTON FAVORITE (ONE YEAR LATER)? - LM

RALPH COOPER w/ CRAIG SHELTON & VINCE RASHAL 12.27.2011

FIVE DEADLY VENOMS OF LOCAL SPORTS TALK - LM

NFL REFEREE JEROME BOGER & CREW "COLOSSAL FAILURES" - LM

HOUSTON LOCAL PERSONALITIES SWAG METER (12.21.2011) - LM

LETTER TO SPORTS TALK 790 BRYAN ERICKSON (REALIGNMENT) - LM

BARRY WARNER (610 AM) WELCOMES CRAIG SHELTON - VERY ODD COUPLE

GOVERNOR RICK PERRY REMOVED THE CURSE FROM HOUSTON TEXANS - LM

THE LOCAL MEDIA THROUGH ARIAN FOSTERS EYES w/DAVID NUNO - LM