n this coming Monday, October 29th., if all goes according to plan, a radio station which has been doing an excellent job of providing the people of the Los Angeles area with fine classical music, will be switching call-sign and format to News/Talk, AM 1260. Sounds simple enough, but taking on a much respected call-sign from the past, KGIL, requires a lot of preparation. Physically, it means rebuilding the studios, retraining some of the staff, changing the furniture in order to accommodate the guests, re-introducing the company to potential sponsors, installing equipment and a lot more behind the scenes, including some of the funniest dialogue I have ever heard, as we tested the new microphones, 'phone systems and even installing the "cut button". If what happened yesterday had been broadcast, live, we would either have proven the effectiveness of the editing powers of the technicians, or we'd all be looking for a new job. It is proving to be exciting for all of us. Gradually names are being released as the talent is signed up: Larry King, Dr. Joy Brown are just two of several I'm looking forward to working with.
There is so much to talk about and all of a sudden my 'phones have started ringing all day with potential guests and suggestions for topics. Nothing will be off the table as a topic and all points of view will be welcomed. No holds barred.
Either on Sunday, or possibly Monday, the Los Angeles Times will, I'm told, have a story about what to expect. I don't know if it augers well or not, but when their superb photographer turned up at the studio (which is still in a state of disrepair), he spilled a cup of coffee over my pants. Oh well. His pictures looked fine. He said the photos looked damp good.
One of the first surprises is the number of sponsors and potential sponsors who are already in conversation with the sales department. A surprise because they are talking about a radio format that starts with a zero rating.
If you detect an enthusiasm in my writing it is because it's a new beginning for me. As I said to Saul Levine, who owns this and a few other stations, at this moment I hope this will be my last job - I'd like it to run for a long time.
My task, and I look forward to the challenge, is to eat into the Limbaugh and O'Reilley audience in the morning. We know what they are going to say - they've said it over and over. (I'll be on from 9 - 11am), then to counter Ken and John during the replay of the morning show from 5.00 to 7.00pm. They are extremely talented broadcasters. That would be a stimulating challenge. I am also excited about the prospect of a face-off with the lower rated Larry Elder.
If you can, tune in starting Monday; it'll be filled with goofs, errors, failings, typical first day pains. Then, if you and I (and the technicians) survive that, would you try Tuesday and the rest of the week.