WISN-AM host apologizes for racial slur
CC Radio/WISN-AM Milwaukee conservative talker Mark Belling formally apologized for using a racial slur on the air, after a week of sarcasm-laced apologies. He used the word wetback, a derogatory term to describe illegal Mexican immigrants, on his 10/27 show.
"I will try to grow and be a better person based on the lessons my terrible mistake has taught me. I am truly sorry," Belling wrote in a seven-paragraph apology to listeners and "tens of thousands of Hispanic and Latin Americans in the metropolitan Milwaukee area."
300 protesters demonstrated Friday at the station and asked advertisers to abandon his show. It has aired on the station for 15 years and regularly tops the ratings, especially in Men 25-54.
Belling blamed his bungled handling of the incident on his own arrogance. He told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he alone is responsible. CC Radio also apologized Friday.
"It's clearly offensive and shouldn't be used in any context, whatever class of Hispanic immigrant that you're talking about," Belling said.
WSJ Radio Network adding weekends
The Wall Street Journal Radio Network announced that "The Wall Street Journal This Morning" will expand to weekends beginning 1/8/05.
Michael Wallace, a veteran of The Wall Street Journal Radio Network newsroom and current host of the weekday "Wall Street Journal This Morning," also will anchor "The Wall Street Journal This Weekend." Cheryl Simone-Miller, who recently joined the Journal from all-news WINS-AM NY also will appear on the program. In addition, the show will also will have original material appropriate for Saturdays and Sundays, including:
* "Weekend Adviser"--a look at great movies, DVDs, music and books.
* "Takeoffs and Landings"-exclusive travel news, deals and tips.
* "Home Front"--an update on buying and selling, design ideas and gear for your home.
* "Stocks to Watch"-a segment devoted to stocks likely to move up-or down-in the week ahead.
Plus, news on autos, fitness, health, career-planning news and portfolio update ideas.
Crystal deadline is Feb. 1
If your radio station wants recognition for exceptional year-round community service in 2004, the deadline to enter the NAB's annual Crystal Radio Awards has been set for February 1, 2005. Crystal finalists and winners will be chosen by judges from both radio and community service organizations.
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