The New 93Q KKBQ staff is partying likes its Rodeo time!

The New 93Q KKBQ gets Country Music Association (CMA) and Marconi Award nominations

Some Houston radio stations might be sitting back looking at The New 93Q KKBQ, and to use the old When Harry Met Sally line saying, "I'll have what [they're] having."

That's because the Houston country station has been nominated for some big time stuff in the last months.

It's pretty rare for a radio station to get nominated for two Country Music Association (CMA) awards and a National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Marconi Award for Country Station of the Year award at the same time.

Congrats!

Here are more from releases they sent me:

The New 93Q gets nods for two prestigious award nominations from The Country Music Association

HOUSTON – (August 31, 2016) – Cox Media Group Houston announced today that the Country Music Association (CMA) has nominated KKBQ-FM, The New 93Q, as a finalist for two prestigious awards: Major Market Station of the Year and Major Market Personality of the Year
for The Q Morning Zoo with Tim Tuttle, Kevin Kline and Erica Rico.

“I'm extremely proud of the accomplishments by the entire team of The New 93Q,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. “Receiving a nomination in two categories is truly a reflection on the dedication of our radio stations to our listeners and our local communities.”

The CMA Broadcast Awards are among the most prestigious awards given out in the field of Country Radio. The CMA Award winners are chosen in three rounds of voting. Votes are cast by industry professional members of the Country Music Association – meaning Awards
winners are honored by their peers in the music industry.

"Today’s nomination represents the hard work and commitment of the entire 93Q team,” said Johnny Chiang, Cox Media Group Operations Manager. “Day in and day out, 93Q serves the Houston community by providing our dedicated listeners with top-rated country music, entertainment, personalities and talent. I want to thank all the staff here and in the Houston community whose passion for country music and radio makes The New 93Q a very special station.”

The 50 th Annual CMA Awards Show will be hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood and broadcast live on ABC-TV from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday, November 2 nd at 7pm.

Houston’s Country Music Station: The New 93Q nominated for prestigious Marconi Award for Country Station of the Year

HOUSTON – (July 26, 2016) – Cox Media Group Houston announced today that the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has nominated KKBQ-FM, The New 93Q, as a finalist for the prestigious Marconi Award for Country Station of the Year.

“I'm extremely proud of the accomplishments by the entire KKBQ team,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. “The Marconi is the radio industry’s Academy Award, so even being nominated is the highest of honors.”

Part of the selection process, entries must include innovative programming, revenue generation and station’s commitment to the community. Highlights also include audience involvement, promotion and how the station serves its audience.

"The 93Q team is the best in the business at delivering excellence in live and local content to our listeners,” said Johnny Chiang, Cox Media Group Operations Manager. “Today’s nomination represents the hard work and commitment of the entire team and I am proud to be a part of this team.”

The winners will be announced on Thursday, September 22, 2016 in Nashville, TN at the NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner & Show. The prestigious awards recognize radio's outstanding personalities and stations. Marconi finalists were selected by a task force of broadcasters, and the winners will be voted on by the NAB Marconi Radio Awards Selection Academy.

107.5-106.9 The Eagle turns 10 with big party

KGLK-FM, Houston’s Eagle, celebrates 10 years of rockin’ Houston this Saturday, May 25 th from 12pm to 7pm with a Birthday Brew Bash at No Label Brewing Company in Katy, Texas.

The party is open to the public and will feature giveaways and live music (2p – 5p) as a token of thanks to Houston. A brief ceremony will begin at 2pm hosted by the station’s core on-air talent: Dean + Rog, Jennifer Tyler, Scott Sparks and Maureen “Mo” Cooper.

“I’m very proud of the accomplishments we’ve made with The Eagle over the past 10 years. The station has had solid ratings from day one,” says Mark Krieschen, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group (CMG) Houston.

As of December 31 st , 2013, Houston’s Eagle effectively eliminated its direct format competitor, KKRW-FM The Arrow, which had been the heritage classic rock station for 20 years. By then, The Eagle had expanded to occupy two signals, 106.9-FM and 107.5-FM, creating the largest radio coverage area in Houston.

Krieschen states, “Classic rock continues to be one of the most popular music formats in radio; our core on-air talent makes The Eagle one of the most successful classic rock stations in the country.”

(This post taken from a release sent to me by Cox Media Group Houston)

93Q alerts you when your favorite song is playing with Q On Demand

You'll hear listener complaints that FM radio station's don't always keep up with technology, but some Houston radio stations are trying to change that.

Starting today, 93Q KKBQ is offering Q On Demand. The radio station's audience will have a chance to choose their favorite songs and get texted or emailed when they are coming on the air.

KKBQ's Cox Media Group owned sister station 107.5 The Eagle KGLK (and 106.9) has already been experimenting with another high tech way to reach out to the audience. The 3 o'clock pick me up turns the station over to the audience at 3pm. Listeners go to the station's site and pick music from an expanded list of songs.

Houston Cox Media Group Vice President/Market Manager Mark Krieschen tells mikemcguff.com that the company has been excited by the feedback from KGLK's 3pm segment and is looking forward to the reaction from KKBQ's new Q On Demand.

Krieschen tells me a Cox station in Tampa, WSUN 97X is programmed by the audience throughout the day.

The New 93Q KKBQ wins Marconi Award Station of the Year

Houston’s Country Music Station: The New 93Q wins prestigious Marconi Award for Station of the Year

Cox Media Group Houston’s station: KKBQ-FM/The New 93Q was named Country Station of the Year at the 2013 National Association of Broadcasters' Marconi Radio Awards.

This is the first time The New 93Q has been bestowed such an honor. The awards were announced Thursday night at the annual NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner & Show held during the Radio Show in Orlando, FL.

"This incredible honor is the culmination of hard work by the entire team at The New 93Q,” said CMG Houston Operations Manager Johnny Chiang. “I could not be more proud of the folks whose passion for country music, radio, and our community makes The New 93Q a very special radio station and an incredibly rewarding place to work."

The prestigious awards recognize radio's outstanding personalities and stations. Marconi finalists were selected by a task force of broadcasters, and the winners were voted on by the NAB Marconi Radio Awards Selection Academy. The votes were tabulated by an independent firm.

“I'm extremely proud of the accomplishments by the entire team of 93Q,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. “Winning radio's most prestigious award put an exclamation mark on our year!”

The passion KKBQ has for its listeners, talent, community and advertisers is the direct result of The New 93Q reining as Houston’s country music leader and the 1.3M Houstonians who tune in weekly.

(This post was taken from a Cox Media Group Houston press release)

93.7 The Beat Houston replaces 93.7 The Arrow KKRW

Classic Rocker 93.7 The Arrow KKRW is dead, The Beat KQBT takes over as Houston's newest urban station

So instead of Led Zeppelin's Houses of the Holy on 93.7, from now on you will probably hear Holy Grail by Jay-Z featuring Justin Timberlake. Just whatever you do, don't let Timberlake get near Reliant Stadium and Janet Jackson again!

That's because after 20 years, 93.7 The Arrow KKRW has flipped to an urban format with Beyonce as the first song. Fitting for Houston. 93.7 The Beat KQBT “H-Town’s Real Hip Hop and R&B” will target a heavy female audience with the likes of Rihanna, Jay Z, Drake, Chris Brown, Beyoncé and Miguel.

**************************
UPDATE
The Breakfast Club takes over 93.7 The Beat KQBT mornings

93.7 The Beat KQBT announced its lineup:
5am-9am The Breakfast Club
9am-2pm: UB Rodriguez
2pm-6pm: Rudy Rush
6pm-10pm: Devi Dev
10pm-2am: Chris Michaels

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

And the new station was taking swipes at market leader 97.9 The Box KBXX from the get go.

I was sent this 93.7 The Beat Houston logo
before the change - it appeared on IHeartRadio.

"93.7 The Beat is ready to write a new chapter in Houston radio history. We’re defining what real hip hop and R&B is," said Eddie Martiny, President and Market Manager, Clear Channel Media and Entertainment, Houston. "Many of the biggest stars in this format live in Houston, so to move the station in this direction was a natural choice. In addition, The Beat format will perfectly complement the five other radio stations in our cluster by making us more attractive and diverse to our advertising community."

The process started New Year's Eve day 2013 at 10am. As I blogged earlier, the station started playing a wide variety of music from Miley Cyrus, Eminem to Oingo Boingo with pre-recorded announcements heralding the end of The Arrow and that a new station would arrive at noon (SEE THE LAST THREE SONGS THE ARROW PLAYED).

"Is it just me or do the Led Zeppelin songs on 93.7 sound different today," KKRW program director Steve Fixx asked mikemcguff.com.

This means longtime Houston rock DJs like Colonel St. James and Steve Fixx of KLOL fame won't have a radio home. Same for morning show newcomer JC Corcoran and mid-day jock Kelly Ryan.

"In late July, just four months after I began the new job in Texas, corporate dropped a bomb, telling me they weren't hiring a producer or co-host to build a show here as we'd agreed," JC Corcoran posted on his Facebook page. "In October I began hearing loud rumors. Last night when we returned to Houston from Christmas break I got the call. Today, a classic rock station with a twenty-year heritage is no more. We've all been let go. The station will be "stunting" for the next few days before revealing the new format. I'd just been nominated for "Employee of the Quarter." Seriously. Next week I'll continue on with the ten-to-noon show on 590 The Man in St. Louis while we try and figure out what's next. Good riddance, 2013."

LISTEN TO THE OFFICIAL 12/31/2013 NOON CHANGE BELOW:


"I had a great run at The Arrow," Colonel St. James posted on Facebook the afternoon after the format flip. "I left Clear Channel on very good terms, and I really wouldn't mind going back to work for them, if the opportunity was right. For now, I'm looking for a new adventure, so if you hear of something, please contact me. Oh, and it doesn't necessarily have to be in radio. All I can say is, I wish my friends at Clear Channel the best of luck with their new station. I hope to back on the air soon, and with your continued support and prayers, and if it's His will, I shall be! Thank you all so very much! God bless and Happy New Year!"

RadioInsight reported Sunday that 937TheBeatHouston.com was registered by Clear Channel. But talk of 93.7 The Arrow's demise has been around for much longer.

The rumors all started back in November. All Access reported Houston could be getting a new urban radio station.

Speculation on a now defunct radio board began that classic rocker 93.7 The Arrow KKRW would be the station to flip formats - if the rumors were true. Semantics would be the reason for that. All Access used the word "targeting" which is why people thought "The Arrow" would be the one...talk about a bulls eye [insert rim shot] or a total miss [insert audience gasp].

While several radio sources told me they heard this rumor getting hotter and hotter, a Clear Channel Houston marketing representative told me back then that they were not "aware of" KKRW flipping to an urban format.

According to the newly minted Nielsen Audio's (replacing Arbitron) November 2013 Portable People Meter 12+ numbers, The Arrow ranks 17th with a 2.3 share. That's down from a 3.6 in July (cue radio pros telling me 12+ numbers don't mean anything but that's all I have access to). Classic Rock competitor 106.9/107.5 The Eagle KGLK came in at number 10 with a 3.7 share in November.

"It's a good move for KKRW," Vice President, Market Manager for Cox Media Group Mark Krieschen told mikemcguff.com after the format flip. "It makes sense for that station considering where they are at in the ratings and it is a big day for us (107.5 and 106.9 The Eagle). The strategy for our cluster began when we hired Dean and Rog."

The Cox Media Group later put The Eagle's signal on both 107.5 and 106.9 - killing off 106.9 The Zone - to improve the station's signal all across Houston.

"Lots of people thought we were crazy to make both of those moves and it worked out for us and we are happy about it," Krieschen told me.

Now, for those not in Houston, our market's top three stations usually include Radio One's 97.9 The Box KBXX and Magic 102 KMJQ. Those are two urban stations that seem entrenched in the top of the radio ratings and totally unchallenged.

"I guess it is game on," Radio One Regional Vice President Doug Abernethy told mikemcguff.com after the format change. "This is not the first time that we have had an assault on our company. We have withstood Hot 97, Power, jazz in addition to flank attacks. So we will enter this latest challenge battle tested. We take this as a compliment to our success. It is people that make or break a station and we have an all star line up of talented individuals in every phase of the urban game. Our company was built on a foundation of serving our community and being African American owned we won't lose focus of our solid foundation in which we built well branded urban stations in Houston."

Other companies have tried and failed to compete with Radio One's Houston urban stations. But Clear Channel owns KKRW, so that means you have an entire radio powerhouse behind this new Houston urban station.

People are asking why we need another urban station. If you think about this way, you have two stations at the top of the ratings for a sizable hip-hop loving audience. If Clear Channel pulls away just some of those listeners and gains new ones, then it will probably be doing better than it was with classic rock as the format.

This could be an interesting radio war. Stay tuned.

Official Clear Channel release:

Houston, Texas – December 31, 2013 – Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Houston announced today the launch of a new radio station, 93.7 The Beat, H-Town’s REAL Hip Hop and R&B, effective immediately.

93.7 The Beat will feature music from today's biggest artists including Kanye West, Drake, Chris Brown, J.Cole, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Houston’s own Beyonce and more. The Beat will give Houston listeners one of a kind access to up-close artist experiences, exclusive premieres, world-class on air personalities and opportunities to be part of bigger than life events and promotions.

"93.7 The Beat is ready to write a new chapter in Houston radio history. We’re defining what real hip hop and R&B is," said Eddie Martiny, President and Market Manager, Clear Channel Media and Entertainment, Houston. "Many of the biggest stars in this format live in Houston, so to move the station in this direction was a natural choice. In addition, The Beat format will perfectly complement the five other radio stations in our cluster by making us more attractive and diverse to our advertising community."

Fans can listen to 93.7 The Beat, via the station's website, www.937thebeathouston.com, as well as on iHeartRadio, Clear Channel's all-in-one digital radio service. iHeartRadio delivers everything listeners want in one free, fully-integrated service: instant access to more than 1,500 of the nation's most popular live broadcast and digital-only radio stations from 150 cities, plus user-created custom stations inspired by favorite artists and songs. iHeartRadio also offers listeners a "Perfect For" feature which allows users to choose from thousands of curated stations based on a range of moods and activities. New - iHeartRadio Talk feature offers on-demand listener-created talk content alongside popular news, celebrity and entertainment “audiosodes.” iHeartRadio Talk also features “Daily Pulse,” a customizable Talk channel featuring the most up-to-date news and culture highlights, to which users can add or remove content that is most important to them.

Follow 93.7 the Beat on Facebook: www.facebook.com/937thebeat
Follow 93.7 the Beat on Twitter: @937thebeat
Follow 93.7 the Beat on Instagram: @937thebeat

93.7 Houston call sign history according to Wikipedia.

KBNO - 12/1963 (the 1970 film Brewster McCloud featured an advertisement on a bus billboard)
KRLY - Fall 1974 (Disco 94, Love 94, Y94)
KLTR-FM - 3/20/1984 (Lite Rock 93.7)
KLTR - 3/2/1986 (K-Lite 93.7)
KKRW - 12/20/1993 (Arrow 93.7 70's Rock Hits, 93.7 The Arrow, Classic Rock 93.7 The Arrow, Houston's Classic Rock 93.7 The Arrow, Now With the Most Classic Rock... Guaranteed... 93.7 The Arrow)

*updated with new KQBT calls 1/21//2014

The New 93Q KKBQ wins Marconi Award for 2014 Major Market Station of the Year

The New 93Q wins prestigious Marconi Award for 2014 Major Market Station of the Year

Earlier this year, we saw 93Q KKBQ jump to number one in the ratings (12+) and now the Houston country music radio station receives some big honors.

Owner Cox Media Group announced The New 93Q was named 2014 Major Market Station of the Year at the 2014 National Association of Broadcasters' Marconi Radio Awards. The awards were announced Thursday night at the annual NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner & Show held during the Radio Show in Indianapolis, IN.

This is the first time The New 93Q has received an award of this magnitude according to the station.

"It's a great honor for our radio station, especially our employees to be recognized as best in class,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. "We are privileged to have the opportunity to entertain, inform, and inspire our listeners each day."

The awards recognize radio's outstanding on-air personalities and stations.

"This incredible honor is the culmination of hard work by the entire team at The New 93Q,” said CMG Houston Operations Manager Johnny Chiang. “I could not be more proud of the folks whose passion for country music, radio, and our community makes The New 93Q a very special radio station and an incredibly rewarding place to work."

The station adds that 1.3 million Houstonians tune into the station on a weekly basis.

Earlier this month, Cox Media Group Houston announced the Country Music Association (CMA) nominated KKBQ-FM as a finalist for two prestigious awards: Major Market Station of the Year and Major Market Personality of the Year for The Q Morning Zoo with Tim Tuttle, Kevin Kline and Erica Rico.

The 48th Annual CMA Awards Show will be hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood and broadcast live on ABC-TV from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday, November 5th at 7pm.

The New 93Q KKBQ finalist for Marconi Award

Houston’s Country Music Station - The New 93Q - Finalist for Prestigious Marconi Award for Legendary Station of the Year

HOUSTON – (July 16, 2018) – Cox Media Group Houston announced today that the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has chosen KKBQ-FM, The New 93Q, as a finalist for the prestigious Marconi Award for Legendary Station of the Year.

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized as a Marconi finalist, but when it’s for Legendary Station – that’s even more special,” says CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. “KKBQ super-serves our local communities, listeners and advertisers year in and year out. It’s a privilege to work with colleagues who put our community and clients first."

"This is the result of the hard work and commitment of the entire 93Q team,” said Johnny Chiang, Cox Media Group Houston Director of Operations. “93Q continually serves the Houston community by providing our fans with top-rated country music, entertainment, and personalities. I want to thank all my teammates and our dedicated listeners in Houston whose passion for country music and radio makes The New 93Q a very special station.”

The winners will be announced on Thursday, September 27, 2018 in Orlando, Florida at the NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner & Show. The acclaimed awards show recognizes stations and individuals for excellence and performance in radio.

About Cox Media Group
Cox Media Group is an integrated broadcasting, publishing and digital media company. The company’s operations currently include 14 broadcast television stations and one local cable channel, more than 60 radio stations, four daily newspapers and more than 80 digital sites. Additionally, CMG operates the National Advertising Platform businesses ofCoxReps – the country’s biggest television rep firm –Gamut, andVidea. The company also offers a full suite of local and regional advertising services through its Local Solutions and Ideabar businesses. CMG currently operates in more than 20 media markets and reaches approximately 52 million Americans weekly across all platforms, including more than 32 million TV viewers, more than 2.7 million newspaper readers, and nearly 15 million radio listeners. For more information about Cox Media Group, please check us out online at www.coxmediagroup.com.

(This post sent to me by Cox Media Group)

The New 93Q Wins CMA Award for Major Market Station of the Year 2018

Houston Country Music Station – KKBQ-FM – Wins Country Music Association Award for Major Market Station of the Year

HOUSTON – (October 15, 2018) – KKBQ-FM, The New 93Q, was named Major Market Station of the Year by the Country Music Association (CMA).

The station was informed of the win by a personal phone call from country superstar, Jason Aldean. The award will be presented at the 52 nd annual CMA Awards show, airing live on Wednesday, November 14 th on ABC TV at 7pm CST.

"It’s a tremendous honor to receive this distinguished award,” says Cox Media Group Houston VP and Market Manager, Mark Krieschen. "The CMA award is a true reflection of the KKBQ team’s dedication to our on-air product, the local communities we serve, our advertisers, employees and the country music industry."

This is the third consecutive CMA win for The New 93Q in this category – which stipulates that a station can only be eligible every other year. Previously, the station won Major Market Station of the Year in 2014 and 2016.

The CMA Awards Show annually recognizes outstanding achievement in the industry of country music. Nominees and winners are determined by the more than 7,400 industry professional members of the Country Music Association, which when established in 1958, became the first trade organization formed to promote an individual genre of music.

“Our third CMA Major Market Station of the Year Award. That is just surreal,” says Cox Media Group Houston Director of Operations Johnny Chiang. “This award belongs to our listeners, who drive us every day to serve our local community in the best way possible.”
The CMA is the station’s second major honor in 2018. Just last month, The New 93Q received the prestigious Marconi Award for Legendary Station of the Year by the National Association of Broadcasters.

About Cox Media Group
Cox Media Group is an integrated broadcasting, publishing, direct marketing and digital media company. The company’s operations include broadcast television stations, radio stations, daily newspapers and non-daily publications. Additionally, Cox Media Group operates the National Advertising Platform businesses of CoxReps, Gamut and Videa: and offers a full suite of local and regional advertising services through its Local Solutions and Ideabar businesses. For more information about Cox Media Group, please visit www.coxmediagroup.com.


(This post taken from a release sent to me by Cox Media Group Houston)

The New 93Q wins prestigious Marconi Award for 2016 Country Station of the Year

This is 3rd time The New 93Q KKBQ has received an award as significant as this

HOUSTON – September 23, 2016 – Cox Media Group Houston’s station: KKBQ-FM/The New 93Q was named 2016 Country Station of the Year at the 2016 National Association of Broadcasters' Marconi Radio Awards. This is 3rd time The New 93Q has received an award as significant as this. The awards were announced Thursday night at the annual NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner & Show held during the Radio Show in Nashville, TN.

"Accepting the Marconi on behalf of Cox Media Group and the entire team of KKBQ is truly an honor and privilege," said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. "The nomination and the win are true reflections of the kind of ‘radio’ KKBQ does each day: super-serving our audience, our advertisers, and the local community."

Established in 1989 and named after inventor and Nobel Prize winner Guglielmo Marconi, the NAB Marconi Radio Awards are given to radio stations and outstanding on-air personalities to recognize excellence in radio.

"This incredible honor is a reflection of the fantastic team we have at The New 93Q and the wonderful listeners who support us every single day,” said CMG Houston Operations Manager Johnny Chiang. “I could not be more proud of the passion our folks have for country music, radio, and our community makes The New 93Q a very special radio station and an incredibly rewarding place to work."

The passion KKBQ has for its listeners, talent, community and advertisers is the direct result of The New 93Q reining as Houston’s country music leader and the 1.1M Houstonians who tune in weekly.

(The following post was taken from a release sent to me by Cox Media Group)

107.5 The Eagle KGLK's ratings jump after taking over 106.9 The Zone

Monday night I tweeted the latest Houston radio ratings for the July period and I noticed one thing stuck out. Classic rocker 107.5 The Eagle KGLK jumped up in the ratings. The first thing thought was the simulcasting of the station on both the 107.5 and 106.9 frequencies. Last June, The Eagle took over 106.9 The Zone KHPT (formerly The Point).

 Looks like I'm not the only one who thought that.

 "We believe the increase in ratings is a direct result of the simulcast of the Eagle brand on 106.9 and 107.5," Mark Krieschen, Vice President/Market Manager Cox Media Group - Houston, told mikemcguff.com. "The two frequencies provide the largest coverage of any single radio station in southeast Texas. The response from listeners in the northern part of the city has been impressive."

 As I wrote in June, the theory is, now Cox can take the Lake Jackson frequency 107.5 and combine it with the Conroe frequency 106.9 to make The Eagle have a larger, more reliable coverage area. Obviously that plan had some merit. Now The Eagle can be heard clearly in the north and south of the Houston radio market.

 On the other side, you may look at the past few months' ratings before The Zone was zapped by The Eagle and notice that if you add the two stations' numbers together, you get about the same rating as the July one. My question is...is it better to have one station on two frequencies get a higher rating or two separate stations getting lower ratings.

 I don't know the economics behind that question. If I did, I'd be in broadcast sales making a lot of money and driving a luxury car. My radio mentor Frank Fallon always told me if you can fix it or sell it, you have a job in broadcasting. Those words make a ton of sense to me.

The combination of the frequencies also puts KGLK ahead of 93.7 The Arrow KKRW - the other (and longtime) classic rock station in Houston.

 In other news, Classical 91.7 KUHA (former Rice Radio KTRU) came out of hash marks in July to get a rating (under 1).

Houston radio stations raise over $420,000 for pediatric care

Over $420,000 Raised to Support Pediatric Care, Education and Research

HOUSTON – (January 4, 2018) – Cox Media Group Houston stations: The New 93Q, Country Legends 97.1 and 106.9 and 107.5 Houston’s Eagle helped Texas Children’s Hospital reach Houstonians via the airwaves to raise $420,375 during the 14th annual Radiothon from December 1 through 31, 2017.

The month-long campaign featured a Hero of the Day highlighting a different Texas Children’s Hospital patient every day on the radio stations. Funds raised benefit patient care, education, research at Texas Children’s Cancer Center.

“I’m humbled with the outpouring of support our listeners gave this year especially after the difficult year Houston experienced with Hurricane Harvey,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. “We are inspired by the courage of the children and their families every year and I’m so proud of our on-going commitment to Texas Children’s Hospital.”

"Our listeners demonstrated they have the biggest hearts in the world,” said Director of Operations Johnny Chiang. “After all they've done to help rebuild Houston after Hurricane Harvey, they stepped up once again and opened their hearts and wallets to help all those in need at Texas Children’s Hospital."

About Cox Media Group
Cox Media Group is an integrated broadcasting, publishing, direct marketing and digital media company. The company’s operations currently include 14 broadcast television stations and one local cable channel, more than 60 radio stations, seven daily newspapers and 11 non-daily publications; and more than 100 digital sites and services, like Rare.us, Clark.com, Dawg Nation, SEC Country, Hookem.com, Mundo Hispanico, Southern Kitchen and All22. Additionally, CMG operates the National Advertising Platform businesses of CoxReps - the country’s biggest television rep firm - Gamut, and Videa. CMG currently operates in more than 20 media markets and reaches approximately 52 million Americans weekly, including more than 31 million TV viewers, more than 3.5 million newspaper readers, and nearly 15 million radio listeners. For more information about Cox Media Group, please check us out online at www.coxmediagroup.com.

(This post taken from a release sent to me by Cox Media Group Houston)

AWRT Houston 2010 Gala and Star Awards

The Houston Chapter of American Women in Radio and Television awarded its Star Awards and here are the winners:

On Air Television Personality
Deborah Duncan KHOU

On Air Radio Personality
Roula Christie KRBE

Marketing or Promotions Director
Pam Kehoe CBS RADIO

Local Buyer
Chris Caldwell Briggs & Caldwell

Local Agency Support Staff
Charity Cain Love Advertising

Local Radio Account Executive
Carla Harrington CBS Radio

Local Radio Assistant Sales or Traffic
Lisa Keys KILT

Local Television Account Executive
Glenda Carmon KTRK

Local Television Assistant Sales or Traffic
Josie Jimenez Univision

Non-Traditional or Internet Sales Manager Radio or Television
Gina Messick CBS Radio

Radio Sales Manager
Sherry Dollar CBS Radio

Local or National Television Sales Manager
Gwen Anderson KTRK

General Sales or Director of Sales TV Manager
Harvey Saxer KIAH

Market Manager or Station Manager for Radio
Mark Krieschen Cox Radio

Market Manager or Station Manager for Television
Susan McEldoon KHOU

Community Affairs Director
Yolanda Green KIAH

Agency of the Year
BrivicMedia

AWRT Rising Star
Keshia Dupas KPRC

RELATED
Deborah Ferguson of NBC 5 KXAS wins Gracie Award

The New 93Q KKBQ wins CMA Major Market Station of the Year 2016

UPDATE OCTOBER 11, 2016
Q Morning Zoo's Erica Rico and Tim Tuttle secretly married for years

Houston’s Country Music Station: The New 93Q wins CMA Major Market Station of the Year 2016

HOUSTON – October 7, 2016 – Cox Media Group Houston’s, KKBQ-FM/The New 93Q has won Major Market Station of the Year for the 2016 Country Music Association Awards. This is the second time in the last three years The New 93Q has received a CMA Award.

"It’s a tremendous honor to receive this distinguished award,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. "The CMA award is a true reflection of KKBQ’s dedication to our on-air product, the local communities we serve, our advertisers, employees and the country music industry."

The CMA Broadcast Awards are among the most prestigious awards given out in the field of Country Radio. The categories are established by market size based on population as ranked by Nielsen Audio. Candidates for Station of the Year are judged on audio sample, ratings history, community involvement, and format leadership. The entries are judged by a panel of distinguished broadcast professionals, representing all market sizes and regions.

“CMA Major Market Station of the Year. That is just surreal,” said CMG Houston Director of Operations Johnny Chiang. “This award belongs to our listeners, who drive us every day to serve our local community in the best way possible!”

The passion KKBQ has for its listeners, talent, community and advertisers is the direct result of The New 93Q reigning as Houston’s country music leader and the 1.1 million Houstonians who tune in weekly.

The 50 th Annual CMA Awards Show will be hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood and broadcast live on ABC-TV from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on Wednesday, November 2 nd at 7pm.

RELATED
- New 93Q wins prestigious Marconi Award for 2016 Country Station of the Year
- The New 93Q KKBQ staff is partying likes its Rodeo time!

(The following post was taken from a release sent to me by Cox Media Group Houston)

UPDATE OCTOBER 11, 2016
Q Morning Zoo's Erica Rico and Tim Tuttle secretly married for years

Suzi Hanks exits 106.9-107.5 The Eagle

Mike McGuff, Suzi Hanks and John Harris after a taping of Hank's public affairs show FYI.

Suzi Hanks has exited The Dean and Rog Show on 106.9 and 107.5 The Eagle KGLK after nearly 17 years with the show as co-host, news anchor and producer.

In addition to Dean and Rog, Hanks was also the Public Affairs Director for Cox Media Group Houston where she hosted For Your Information (FYI) which aired on all of the company's Houston stations.

"Thank you so much to all my friends and listeners for reaching out to me recently," Hanks said on her personal Facebook account and gave mikemcguff.com permission to reprint here. "If you haven’t heard, my more than 20 years on Houston morning radio has come to a close. I am so grateful for you all and look forward to updating you soon on my next chapter in life. The possibilities are exciting!"

Mark Krieschen, VP/Market Manager of Cox Media Group - Houston, told mikemcguff.com that Hanks' contract expired this month and the company made a decision not to renew her agreement.

Hanks was with Cox Media Group for 10 years. Before CMG, she worked with the Dean and Rog Show at what was then Clear Channel's 93.7 The Arrow KKRW. She joined the long running Houston morning show in 2003.

Before working with Dean and Rog, Hanks was an award winning reporter for News Radio 740 KTRH for five years.

Prior to Houston, she worked her first radio job at KYCN in Wyoming.

Hanks actually started her broadcasting career in television as a reporter at KTWO Casper, Wyoming and KGWN Cheyenne, Wyoming. Her entry into the biz was through the NBC Page program working on shows like The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Days of Our Lives, Wheel of Fortune, Scrabble, Classic Concentration, Donahue, and Late Night with David Letterman.

She is a graduate of California State Long Beach.

In her spare time, Hanks has volunteered for Gulf Coast Big Brothers Big Sisters, Inc. where she was honored as Big Sister of the Year 2011.

She also reads for Taping for the Blind, Inc. Her efforts were featured by AP and NPR's All Things Considered.

According to The Eagle website, Producer Hoss is now producing the Dean and Rog show. UPDATE: Producer Hoss informed me he has been producing the show for the last three years.

Cox Media Group Houston Radio Stations Fundraiser for Harvey victims

Cox Media Group Houston (CMG) is helping Hurricane Harvey victims by partnering with the Houston Food Bank.

The New 93Q (KKBQ-FM), Country Legends 97.1 (KTHT-FM) and 106.9 & 107.5 Houston’s Eagle (KHPT-FM & KGLK-FM) will broadcast live from the Houston Food Bank on Monday, September 4th and Tuesday, September 5th to solicit donations and supplies from their audiences.

“I applaud every relief agency in the Houston area that is helping individuals and families with basic needs,” said CMG VP and Market Manager, Mark Krieschen. “We are proud to partner with the Houston Food Bank to help people affected by Harvey. Together, our efforts will provide food and supplies to our neighbors throughout our listening area who struggle to rebuild their lives.”

When: Monday, September 4 th from 10am – 7pm
Tuesday, September 5 th from 5am – 7pm

Where: Houston Food Bank
535 Portwall
Houston, TX 77029

On-line: http://cmgradiocares.com

“Getting the word out to the community on the most effective ways to help those impacted by Hurricane Harvey is crucial to recovery, and we appreciate Cox Media Group for helping to do just that, said President and CEO of Houston Food Bank, Brian Greene. “Their support and partnership, especially in this challenging time, will help so many of our neighbors in need. Together, we are stronger. Thanks, Cox Media Group!”

These items are most needed during disaster:

• Canned ready-to-eat items with pull tops: vegetables, fruit
• Protein in pouches or pull-top cans: tuna, beef stew, chili, canned chicken
• Peanut butter
• Snacks: granola bars, breakfast bars, etc.
• Toiletries
• Paper goods
• Diapers
• Cleaning supplies: mops, mop buckets, brooms, bleach wipes, bleach, garbage bags, bug spray

(This post taken from a release sent to me by Cox Media Group)

Houston Radio Broadcasters Band Together to Raise Funds for the Houston Food Bank

Houston, T.X. – September 6th, 2017 – Twenty-five Houston radio stations will simultaneously air a fundraiser to support the Houston Food Bank in order to feed those affected by Hurricane Harvey beginning Friday, September 8th and running through Sunday, September 10th. Houston Radio will run live and recorded promotional announcements asking for monetary donations to aid in Harvey relief efforts.

“Radio’s strength is rooted in its connection to the community, and Houstonians rely on Radio to inform, protect and nourish their spirits. Now, Houston Radio stations come together to literally nourish those harmed by Hurricane Harvey. So starts Houston’s recovery, with the power of its people – and Radio – behind it” said Oscar Rodriguez, President of the Texas Association of Broadcasters.

"Our amazing city has been devastated, but we have an abundance of pride and generosity...we're resilient...and we WILL bounce back" said Eddie Martiny, President, Houston Region, iHeartMedia Markets Group. The Houston Food Bank will provide food and supplies in the short term and for many months to come to residents in southeast Texas who will struggle to rebuild their lives. They will work closely with a network of partner agencies to ensure food is getting to those who need it most.

Mark Krieschen, Vice President of Cox Houston said, “The Cox Media Group team is proud to be working with our fellow Houston Radio broadcasters and the Houston Food Bank to help people affected by Harvey. Together, our efforts will provide food and supplies to our neighbors throughout our listening area.”

“Food is a basic need that will be in short supply for many for a long time” said Sarah Frazier, SVP/Market Manager for CBS Radio in Houston, “We all serve the same community and we need to be as impactful as possible, so it makes sense to start our joint efforts there.”

“The impact of Hurricane Harvey will be felt by many in our city for weeks and months, and in some cases years, to come. Univision Houston is proud to provide a platform for the Houston Food Bank to reach the Hispanic community as we all rally to rebuild our neighborhoods and provide relief to the families we serve,” said David Loving, President & General Manager of Univision Houston.

“Maybe the opportunity here is to show the rest of the country and the world that if we can come together during terrible tragedies, we can come together period…Houston Strong,” said Terri Thomas, Operations Manager/Program Director of Radio One Houston. Alex Cadelago, VP and Market Manager of Cumulus added, “Our first duty as broadcasters is to serve the community…we’re all wearing the same jersey for this cause.”

About Houston Radio:
Houston Radio stations reach 92% of all adults in Houston every week. Combined, they donate over $15 million dollars in cash and airtime annually through fundraisers and promoting non-profit events. During Hurricane Harvey they connected the citizens of Houston to each other and to the information they needed most. They are now focused on helping the citizens of Houston rebuild. They are #HoustonRadio and they are #HoustonStrong

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by CBS Radio Houston)

Cox Houston’s Alana Lujan named on Radio Ink's 2015 list of Future African-American leaders

Alana Lujan, Cox Media Group (CMG) General Sales Manager, is one of 20 honorees nationwide who were nominated by their leaders for their contributions in helping shape strategic change in the radio industry

Cox Media Group (CMG) Houston’s Alana Lujan is named to Radio Ink magazine’s 2015 list of Future African-American leaders. Lujan, General Sales Manager, is one of 20 honorees nationwide who were nominated by their leaders for their contributions in helping shape strategic change in the radio industry. Hundreds of
submissions were voted on by a panel of experienced managers from across the industry. Lujan joins Dawn Campbell of Orlando, FL in representing CMG.

“In her eight years in Houston, Alana has immersed herself in the community, with her co-workers, and our advertising clients, said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. “Alana exemplifies the very high standards and sterling reputation Cox Media Group strives to achieve in each of its operations; she is a rising star in our company.”

Lujan has been with CMG for nine years. Her career includes five years as Account Manager for KKBQ/KTHT, eight months at the Austin American-Statesman, one year as local sales manager and two years as general sales manager for the CMG Houston cluster. She is currently involved with the Media Classic, an annual charity golf tournament benefitting Advertising Education Foundation, Dreamfund, and The Houston Food Bank.

“I am honored to be chosen for this acknowledgement. I am passionate about our industry and truly enjoy what I do,” said Lujan. “I love coaching and developing my Account Managers to be successful by helping clients to grow their businesses.”

(This post was taken from a press release sent to me by Cox Media Group (CMG) Houston)

The New 93Q KKBQ nominated for Academy of Country Music Major Market Station of the Year

HOUSTON – (February 2, 2017) – Cox Media Group Houston announced today that the Academy of Country Music has nominated KKBQ-FM, The New 93Q, as a finalist for Radio Station of the Year – Major Market.

“To be recognized by the ACM for major market station of the year is a tremendous honor and a reflection of KKBQ’s dedication and commitment to our local communities and to country music,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen.

"This is the culmination of the years of hard work and commitment of the entire 93Q team,” said Johnny Chiang, Cox Media Group Operations Manager. “Day in and day out, 93Q serves the Houston community by providing our fans with top-rated country music, entertainment, and personalities.”

The winners will be announced during the ACM Party for a Cause event at The Joint on Saturday, April 1 in Las Vegas, NV.

About the Academy of Country Music Awards
The 52 nd Academy of Country Music Awards is dedicated to honoring and showcasing the biggest names and emerging talent in the country music industry. The show is produced for television by dick clark productions and will broadcast LIVE from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 2, 2017 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.

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Cox Houston stations raise over $625,000 for Texas Children’s Hospital

HOUSTON – (December 17, 2018) – Cox Media Group Houston stations: The New 93Q, Country Legends 97.1 and 106.9 & 107.5 Houston’s Eagle executed its 15 th Annual Radiothon on December 13th and 14th , generating $625,674 for the benefit of Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH).

“The outpouring of support our listeners give each year is immeasurable; this year was no different,” said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager, Mark Krieschen. “Our employees are inspired by the courage of the children, their families, and the professionals of TCH.”

The marathon broadcast featured interviews with TCH doctors, patients and their families - encouraging Houstonians to donate to TCH. Funds raised will directly benefit pediatric cancer research, patient care and education.

"Giving back to our community means more to everyone at CMG Houston than just about anything else we do. Our on-air talent and behind-the-scenes crew worked 30+ hours over two days, fighting through fatigue, tears, and pain, to help raise money for pediatric research and care,” said CMG Houston Director of Operations, Johnny Chiang. “Today, TCH patients and their families are a little better off because of my team, and there are no words to describe how proud I am of them.”

Dean & Rog celebrate 20 years in Houston

Mayor Turner Proclaims Friday, April 28th Dean & Rog Day

HOUSTON – April 25, 2017 – Cox Media Group Houston’s personalities Dean Myers and Roger Beaty will celebrate 20 years on the air in Houston on Friday, April 28, 2017. Mayor Sylvester Turner has proclaimed April 28, 2017 Dean & Rog Day in Houston and the proclamation will be presented to Dean & Rog during their morning show on Friday.

Dean & Rog came to Houston following stops in Flint, Michigan, Salt Lake City, Utah, Phoenix, Arizona and Denver. During their time in Houston, they have consistently been one of the top-ranked morning shows. Listeners have come to count on them for hilarious pranks, smart-aleck comments and the perfect balance of talk and music.

"Looking around the country, there are only a handful of major market morning shows with a 20 year track record in the same city. What Dean and Rog have accomplished today is quite remarkable," said CMG Houston VP and Market Manager Mark Krieschen. "The continued success of the show in morning drive-time is something you just don’t see anymore. We’re proud to have these guys on our team!”

Dean & Rog will have a live studio audience, special guests, games and local Classic Rock cover band The Slags performing live.