CCU: No timetable for Lowry's return; no talks with Mel

Speaking at a Deutsche Bank Securities Media Conference in New York, Clear Channel CFO Randall Mays said his father, founder and CEO Lowry Mays, is on the mend from his recent brain surgery (5/4/04 RBR Daily Epaper #87), but there's no timetable for his return to his job. Randall Mays also parried a question from analyst Drew Marcus, praising Mel Karmazin, but saying there have been no talks by Clear Channel with the former Viacom President.

"The good news is he's moved out of the hospital and he's into a physical rehabilitation clinic, which he calls boot camp - - which is about what it's like...they work him very hard," Randall said of Lowry. "We got him set up on a wireless laptop yesterday, so for all of you who'll start getting emails from him, you'll now know that that's what he's doing with his free time."

Asked about a timeframe for Lowry's return, Randall said there was none. "I think we're just going to have to take that on a day-by-day basis. Obviously, Lowry is doing well and he hopes to be back soon, but I couldn't give a specific timetable at this point," he said.

With all sorts of rumors floating around about Karmazin's future, Marcus asked "Is there any role for Mel Karmazin at Clear Channel?"

"I have no idea. Mel's obviouslyw a great, great talent. He is probably one of the most passionate people in our industry and I think we're always looking for great people to enlarge your organization - - but we haven't talked to Mel," Randall Mays replied.