The Back Page: multiple changes at northern Michigan's big three radio ownership groups

 Northern Michigan Radio Landscape

- Three major companies dominate Northern Michigan radio: MacDonald Garber Broadcasting, Midwestern Broadcasting, and Black Diamond Broadcasting.

- These companies have undergone significant changes in programming and personnel recently.

- The radio industry faces challenges from satellite radio and streaming services, necessitating adaptation to listener preferences.

MacDonald Garber Broadcasting Changes

- 96.7 WLXV in Cadillac returned to simulcasting AC Lite 96 (WLXT 96.3 Petoskey) due to tower damage from a major ice storm.

- The change raises questions about the permanence of 96.7's format, previously Country 'The Bull'.

- Tower reconstruction is a lengthy process requiring FCC approval and engineering expertise.

Midwestern Broadcasting Developments

- 1310 AM WCCW, formerly Classic Country WTCM Gold, rebranded as '1310 The Ticket' to join the 97.1 Detroit statewide sports network.

- The station faces a challenge as 'The Ticket' name is already used by MacDonald Garber stations in other areas.

- 1310 AM is currently a daytime-only operation due to a lost transmitter site, impacting its future viability.

Black Diamond Broadcasting Adjustments

- Classic Rock 'The Bear' introduced new midday and afternoon hosts, Dave Barr and Guy Dark.

- Rock 105 and 95.5 adjusted its schedule, extending Cartman's morning show and adding a syndicated night show from Canadian Greg Beharrell.

- The syndicated Greg Beharrell show is criticized for its canned, non-local content, reflecting a low-budget approach.

Radio Industry Challenges and Listener Engagement

- Radio stations are criticized for being cheap and not prioritizing listener preferences, leading to declining ratings.

- The rise of digital platforms like Spotify and online streams provides significant competition to traditional radio.

- Understanding listener engagement now involves website visits and online stream data, beyond traditional Nielsen ratings.

Howard Stern's Reduced Schedule

- Howard Stern announced a reduced work schedule, broadcasting only on Mondays and Tuesdays.

- His decision is attributed to prioritizing his health as he approaches 72 years old.

- The change means he will only be working six hours a week, three hours per show.