http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/ http://www.eblah.com en http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1216515968/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1216515968/#num1

Edmontonians August ’08

I was totally thrilled to hear that the late Wes Montgomery is going to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame this coming September in Winnipeg.  Thanks to wonderful people like Jackie Rae Greening of CFCW this was made to happen.  Wes ‘owned’ the airwaves in Edmonton for many, many years, hosting mornings on CHED, K-LITE, and CFRN, with the last several years on country music radio CFCW.

I was fortunate to have known Wes from when I was ‘just a kid’ when he worked for my Dad at CHED in the 1960’s.  Nothing was sadder for me when we had to change the format on CFRN AM in the early 1990’s and I had to let this legend go from his morning shift.    Wes took it easy on me and we shook hands ‘as friends’ at that time, however he got the last laugh.

In his column in the Edmonton Sun that weekend Wes mentioned his ‘termination’  when he stated…

”I just got fired by my former bosses kid – I knew him when he just got out of his diapers.”  

Special!  

Good work JR.

This past month I was honoured to be part of a focus group for the Edmonton Oilers Hockey club.  This was just a week or so after the Daryl Katz takeover.  Ernie Pasemko and Frank Calder of Calder Bateman Advertising conducted the session, with input from people like me,  Don Metz, of Aquila Productions, Martin Salloum, of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, Ron Gilbertson of Economic Development Edmonton, among others.  

This was just one of ‘several’ gatherings to discuss the on going operation of the hockey team.  The sign of a great businesses is when they conduct research on a continuous basis to improve their product.  I think we’ll see the results of that on the ice this year.

Also with the Edmonton Oiler’s, I go back to the early 1980’s with GM Kevin Lowe when he was doing ‘sport-a-torials’ for a radio station I was running in town.  I must have taught him well because Kevin made ‘world wide headlines’ when he performed a half-hour verbal assault on Anaheim’s Brian Burke with Total Sports host Bob Stauffer on our sports station, Team 1260 early in July.

This was one of the most ‘entertaining’ half hours of radio that I’ve ever heard and it spurred a record number of phone calls and emails the following few days.  The NHL themselves even called to ask for a copy of the tape.

We are ‘so blessed’ with world class entertainment this summer in Edmonton.  I saw some ‘tremendous’ concerts this past month and many more are on the way.  As showcased a few months ago Pink Martini blew everybody away at the Winspear during the Jazzfest.  China Forbes (no relation) sang in six different languages and had a back up band that could ‘each’ carry the show by themselves.  Thanks for the tickets Rob Christie...I owe ya one.

Following that Mark Knopfler, formerly of Dire Straits, sold out the Jube in record time and put on one of those concerts where you spend most of the time with your eyes closed moving to his amazing guitar.  Jubillee President Katherine Huising invited me up to see the relatively new ‘private’ rooms that they now have available for corporate functions at the Jubilee.  Give her a call from more information.  

Then it was off to Rexall for the James Taylor concert.  Nothing like watching a veteran of the music industry work the crowd.  Both James and Mark enjoyed 4 and a half-star status in the newspapers the next day, which is a rarity for Edmonton critics to say the least.

Now the fun begins because we’re in ‘outdoor’ concert season and I hope that the past six to eight weeks of almost endless ‘precipitation’ is just about over so the Folk Festival; Big Valley Jamboree; the Edmonton Fringe Festival, and the Blues Festival can enjoy blue skys for their events.

There’s nothing like bad weather (and bad roads) to ruin a good summer – so fingers are crossed that these outstanding events get more than their fair share of sunshine so that the world class entertainment we have invited to town can take home positive stories of their experience in Festival City.  I'm going to catch night one of the Blues Fest - then hop a plane to Phoenix to see Dave Matthews Band.  

Finally, I’ve been ‘touring the city’ over the past several weeks talking to some of our great civic leaders along with 630 Ched’s Gord Whitehead and Debbie Walker.  We’ve spoken to people like Telus Dr. Bob Westbury, the United Way’s Anne Smith, and Quickcards Lyle Best, about an incredible new project that Santa’s Anonymous is currently working on.  

It’s not ‘official’ yet – but when it gets announced Santa’s Anonymous will go to a whole new level.  It’s an exciting project that will help this wonderful cause become even bigger and better.  Dad would be proud!

Lots of movement (or rumoured movement) in the Edmonton radio scene over the past few weeks - keep your eyes on Puget Sound cuz I'm sure most or all of these will be chronicled before the all important Fall book gets underway in September.

More to come…soon.










]]> Sat, 19 Jul 2008 21:06:08 Marty Forbes http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1214106396/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1214106396/#num1

       'Edmontonians' July 08


Being in the media for as long as I have been the number one question I get from people I run into on the streets is… “whatever happened to….”  

Last month on my Pugetsoundradio.com blog I put out the ‘ask’ to Edmontonian’s Elsewhere and received response literally from all around the globe.  

Staying with ‘family first’ my brother Gord Forbes, who spent 33 years with Corus Entertainment (and Moffat prior to that) is now the VP Business Development for the Vancouver Canucks.  Brother Gerry Forbes still holds down Mornings at Astral Media Radio’s CJAY 92 in Calgary.  Gerry worked with me on "The Bear" for a bit in the mid 1990’s.  Step Son Jeremy Paige, who worked in Red Deer, Lacombe, and Drumheller is now the Program Director for Astral Media Radio GP In Terrace, BC.

Some of the ‘original’ CHED guys from around 1954 (1080 CHED then) checked in including John Barton and John Dolan, now in Victoria and Calgary respectfully.  Both are still considered two of the top ‘voice talents’ in the business and are still active by voicing national commercials for radio and television.

Other long time CHED guys ‘elsewhere’ include Bob McCord, living in Laguna Beach, California and his pal Wayne Overland (Edmonton Journal) who has homes here in Edmonton as well as in Victoria and Phoenix.

Also in Phoenix, former CHED, Newcap big wig Al Anderson.

Checking in from “down under” – Matt Hawkins who worked in the Edmonton media from the early 60's to the mid-seventies at CHED, CHQT and then on to CFRN Radio/TV as the Municipal Affairs/Court reporter.  Matt retired to Nanaimo  and is currently visiting  his  kids in Australia until early November.

Another former Moffat GM Vern Traill still enjoys life in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.  Former Program Director in the hey dey of CHED Keith James Sr is also living on the coast and ‘back’ in radio after many years out of the business.

And yet another CHED GM, Roy Hennessey, is setting up shop in Vancouver as he launches a brand new radio station. Roy has been operating several media based businesses in Toronto for the past decade or so.

Another Moffat alumni is Ernie Mushtuk, who now owns ‘half of Edson” and many will remember Chuck Benson from his days running Yellowhead Broadcasting. Chuck is on the 'wet coast.'

Enjoying their retirement on the coast as well are folks like former ACCESS and CKUA big wigs Don Thomas and Jackie Rollins who emailed in from Parksville/Qualicom on the island.   I’ve been a pal of Don’s son Myke Thomas for many years.  Myke toiled at CJCA in the mid 1970’s and now is the Homes Editor for the Calgary Sun.

Kathy Kovacs checked in from Vancouver, reminding me of ‘several’ ex Edmontonians now working there – including the multi talented Dawn Chubai; Perry Solkowski; Kerri Adams, Robin Sticklee; and Kristie Gordon to name just a few.  Kristie, I understand, just announced her 'engagement.'

From Calgary, John Beaudin – ex K Lite.  From Los Angeles, Jeff Rechner, another ex-CHED guy now doing freelance voice work.

With one of the ‘best’ names ever, Mannie Bazunis (nephew of Ernie Afagahis) from CISN, also now on the coast and working for CTV.

More ex CTV – Kathryn McDonald and Peter Labardious now toil in Toronto,  Same for Michael Kuze, A Channels former weather man.  Roger Millions, another ex CTV, now works for Sportsnet out of Calgary.

Jim Davies, ex Edmonton Journal writer is ‘somewhere in Mexico’ and checks in with me about every two years.  Bob Remington, another great Journal scribe, calls Canmore home and writes freelance for the National Post.

Many others contacted me from the area too including Jim Archibald and Noreen Lodge, from CFRN; Jim Hockley from CFRN/CHQT, George “Jockey G” Kelso, Al Shaver, CFRN; and ex Nor Net owners Hugh McKinnon and Gene Daniels stay involved in the business from their west coast base as well.

In the interior of British Columbia, long time on air guy Nick Carter is still working in the business in Kamloops, BC.  Nick started in the Canadian Forces Radio Baden-Soellingen, West Germany in 1971; then worked evenings at CFRN-AM , CJCA and also a CHQT in the 1970’s

Former Telemedia boss Doug Shillington is also retired in the Vernon area.

From Los Angeles, Leslie Miller is now with ABC TV.  Leslie, of course, was a former CFRN TV anchor.  From Minneapolis, former CFRN TV Weatherman Ian Leonard; and from New York the ‘bespeckled’ Ashley Banfield;

From the original K-97, Al Murdoch is making a great living as a freelance voice talent in Vancouver;  as well ex GM, now multi licence holder on the west coast, Matthew McBride; and former K-97 Sales guy Wayne Keen was last sighted in Mexico;  

Former CISN Program Director Jerry Siemens was just in town from Vancouver to apply for a new FM for Patison Broacasting. Kelowna GM from Patison, Bruce Davis, was also here.  Another former Edmontonian, Jim McLaughlin fronted another application for a station as well.

Finally…checking in from Lloydminster, is Colleen Valentine who worked at several Edmonton stations throughout the 1990’s.

If I missed you…next time around.  

Finally, a great loss to the television industry with the passing of Gail McGregor in Vancouver.  Gail was a companion of my late father for several years and used to call herself my "almost" step mother.  She spent her entire life in the television industry, and spent many years at ITV (now Global), and CKVU in Vancouver.  Talented - creative - and simply one of the most fun people in the industry.  Gail, the Forbes family will miss you greatly as will the television industry in Western Canada.


Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear,
EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.
Contact
marty@edmontonians.com

                  


.
]]> Sat, 21 Jun 2008 23:46:36 Marty Forbes http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1211739082/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1211739082/#num1

'Edmontonians' June 08

When people ask you how long you’ve known somebody few answer “since birth.”   I can do that with Donna James (nee Warner) who is one of the most inspirational people I know.  Donna and I were born ‘across the alley’ from each other in the Highlands and have stayed in touch our entire lives through ‘media.’  

Donna was hugely successful as a member of "Three’s a Crowd" in the late 60’s, and enjoyed a fabulous career before Canadian Content was mandated on the radio.  A few years back Donna was ‘cancer challenged’ and took the disease ‘head on.’  This coming October Donna will chair The Speaking of Women’s Health Conference at the Shaw Conference Centre, a fund raising event with proceeds to The Lois Hole Hospital.    

Complete information is available at http://www.speakingofwomenshealth.com.   Please give it your support.  I can safely tell you ‘nobody’ works harder for the cause than somebody touched by it – and Donna is ‘that’ lady.

Edmonton is known across North America for ‘great’ summer music and arts festivals and that wonderful season is on the horizon once again.  

Here’s some thoughts and information on a few of the ‘best.’

The Edmonton Jazz Festival has been in financially difficulty for many years but this year some extra funding has helped them raise the bar and there are some tremendously talented world class jazz musicians coming in June, including Wynton Marsallis and the multi talented Molly Johnson.  If I can tip the Forbes hat on a group you might like to see – try Pink Martini.

The Edmonton Folk Festival is next, and this is yet another world class event that virtually sells out year after year.  Chris Isaac – Serena Ryder – Jakob Dylan, among others, will be attending this years fest.

Grab your tarp and get ready for another great year.  Pray for sunshine.

For country fans Big Valley Jamboree is once again lighting up Camrose and both Larry Werner and Glen Vinet are proud to bring us big Trace Adkins, fresh off his appearance on The Apprentice, Larry the Cable Guy (he’s a riot), Trisha Yearwood (Mrs. Garth Brooks), Randy Travis, among others, and of course our own Danny Hooper is the MC.  

If you’re NOT a country fan go for the visuals.  This is a virtual entire ‘small city’ and boy do they celebrate.

My all time summer favorite is Cam Hayden and partner Carol Dean’s Edmonton Bluesfest the third weekend at Hawrelak Park.  It’s hard to believe that this is the tenth anniversary of the event and Cam and Carol have brought back ‘the best of the past decade’ including the James Cotton Blues Band, Downchild, and 94 year old Pine Top Perkins who has ‘just’ released a new CD backed up with people like Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Vaughn.  

If you want to bump into me I’m the one sitting at the top of the hill – dead centre – groovin’ and suckin’ on a big cigar.  Buy your tickets early – as it’ll again be a fast sell out.  It’s the “only” festival with Motorcycle Parking ‘right at the front entrance” (*thanks Cam!) which is a bonus for two wheel enthusiasts like me and my riding buddy CBC's Karl Stark.  My real estate pal Gary Peruzzini in Phoenix is riding his Honda Gold Wing up 'just' for the festival - that's dedication.

You’ll run into some well known Edmontonians each and every year at Bluesfest, like city lawyer (and CFL Referee) Bud Steen; Waterloo Motors Randy Purvis; legendary CBC/CKUA announce Holger Peterson, and Joe FM’s Gary James.

If it isn’t music it’s theatre, and The Fringe Festival lights up Whyte Avenue, also in August, with a collage of live theatre, music, and street performances.

Not exactly a Festival but now a major summer staple in our city is Jim Haskins/Ken Knowles Edmonton Indy (formerly the Grand Prix of Edmonton) brought to us by Rexall and Northlands.  Among the big name drivers coming is the amazing five foot tall dynamo Danica Patrick, from Scottsdale, Arizona.

Media wise to wrap up the month, CHQT AM (Cool 880) is now known as I880 News.  This is an adventurous combination of news and information, with a large amount of listener based content, that has been built from the ground up by Doug Rutherford and the crew at Corus Radio.  This innovative format has been build with an ‘internet’ and ‘community’ combination in mind and will be utilizing the talents from 630 CHED as well as from a ‘brand new’ news and information staff.  

As well Newcap has attracted two new Programmers to their operations in James “Gruff” Grishnowski as Program Director for K-ROCK and Pat Cardinal as Operations Manager in the building.  Both Gruff and Pat have past experience in the Province, Gruff at The Goat in Lloydminster, Pat at the former Power 92.  

The CRTC will be holding their Edmonton FM meeting around press time so I won’t have any update or feedback on the applications for new licences until next month.  Formats promised include all Blues; all News; Triple A (Adult Album Alternative); ethnic; and Classic Hits/Variety by Leduc’s Marc Tanagi.

Let the games begin!

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear,
EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.
Contact
marty@edmontonians.com

                  

]]> Sun, 25 May 2008 14:11:22 Marty Forbes http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1208537955/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1208537955/#num1
         'Edmontonians'
            May  2008

I certainly never have a problem of drawing ‘writers blank’ when I stay as busy as I can during our ‘extended’ winter/spring in Edmonton.  

This last month, for example,  I covered the city ‘like a blanket’ and touched base with many top “Edmontonians.”
For instance.  Our radio stations hosts a series called “Lunch and Learn” often where we bring in guest experts to discuss their areas of expertise..  

I ‘borrowed’ the idea from the ex top guy  at the Royal Bank, Bill Bannister,  a few years ago when we worked together in the United Way of Northern Alberta.

In April, two days after the release of the Edmonton arena report,  Lyle Best spoke to
our group and outlined the many benefits of such an ‘entertainment’ complex.  

Past guest hosts in our series have included Jim Taylor from the Downtown Business Association,  Martin Salloum from the Edmonton Chamber,  Stephen Boyd from the Royal Alexander Hospital Foundation, Rick Carter, from Northlands – and we’ve enjoyed presentations from several other high level Edmontonians over the past two years.

This new arena/entertainment complex certainly will be debated for a good period of time in our city, however when you hear Lyle point out all the benefits I’m sure you’ll understand the many positive elements of the issue.

I ran into Lyle a few days later again at the Natalie Cole benefit. This man doesn’t sit still for ‘a minute’ and should be saluted for ALL that he does for our city.  Then I met the 'other Lyle" - Lyle Lovett at another Winspear Gala. This man defines the word "cool."

As well, I attended the Sorrentino’s “Garlic Festival” with my wife Kim.  We ran into several old pals, including 630 CHED’s legendary Bryan Hall and his wife Lillian.  Rob and Diane Christie are old veterans of this event.  Ed Plazier and former CFRN morning co-host Cynthia Charles also graced the evening.  

This past month (Mar/April) we lost ‘two of the good ones’ in the broadcasting business with the passing of Gary McGowan (ex K-97), and Gord Robson (ex-Corus).  Both contributed much to our industry.  Many of Edmonton’s behind the mic people were on  hand at the tributes held for Gary and Gord.  

Those included long time Corus CHED Cool people  Bob Layton, Chuck Chandler,  Keith James Jr., Jim Johnson,  Boyd Leader,  former Power 92 morning show staff like  the multi talented Randy Broadhead, Audie Lynds, Rogers Susan Reade,  and my  Astral Media co-workers Bryn Griffiths, Marc Stevenson, Len Theusen,  Rob Vavrek,  and several others.  Both gents will be missed greatly.   (There's also a big benefit for Gary McGowan on May 2nd - if you're reading this in Edmonton I know they'd appreciate your support.)

As hockey’s second season is well underway I think it’s appropriate to thank both Kevin Lowe and Coach Craig McTavish for the ‘entertainment’ this past season by the very young Edmonton Oilers Hockey club.  Sam Gagner, Andrew Cogliano, Dustin Penner, and Tom Gilbert (to name just a few) certainly took up the ‘mantle of responsibility’ with the injuries to our usual team leaders and the race to the playoffs was as fine a brand of hockey as we’ve seen here in many years.  

I had lunch with Oilers/Oil Kings big wig Stew McDonald during the month and was very proud to be part of Year One of the very successful Junior Edmonton Oil Kings too.  Can't wait for "Year two" - Tomas Vincour is my 'bet to make it big" player.

With the Oilers, to think with more than 325 ‘man games’ lost during the season to only miss the playoffs by “three points” is surely an amazing achievement.  

As we finally head into the ‘summer season’ we go into high gear for the many fund raising events this city is known for.  It’s hard supporting them all, as the price gets a little prohibitive, but often just a ‘donation’ to a cause is a way to get involved.

A couple of my favorites are on the horizon, with the 630 Ched Gary Draeger Memorial  Golf Tournament goes Friday, May 23rd at the Links in Spruce Grove – and the Edmonton Motorcycle Ride for Dad goes Friday, June 13th from the River Cree Resort & Casino.

Finally, I had a great catch-up lunch with Alberta Motion Picture Industry Association (AMPIA) big guy Allan Brooks this past month.  Allan and I used to bump into each other when he ran the television newsroom at CTV (then CFRN) here.   The AMPIA awards are on the horizon and these are very important awards in that they recognize some of the finest work in Alberta television and film.   Allan tells me that we’re one of the ‘lowest funded’ Provinces in Canada and that it’s really a ‘labour of love’ that Alberta Film producers use to motivate themselves.  I run into my cousin Doug Forbes, from time to time and he has  worked his entire life in movies and television, and he certainly is witness to that.    

I firmly believe Alberta can attract more ‘big’ projects with a healthy industry and certainly the quality we produce in this province can qualify as ‘world class’ with the proper funding.  There Allan.  Hope that helps.

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear,
EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.
Contact
marty@edmontonians.com



http://www.edmontonians.com











]]> Fri, 18 Apr 2008 12:59:15 Marty Forbes http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1207976601/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1207976601/#num1 Marty Forbes'
                                 'Edmontonians'

April 2008




One of the nice perks in the broadcast business is meeting some pretty interesting people. While I was running KISS FM in Vancouver in 1986, I agreed that the station would sponsor the first ever David Foster Foundation benefit in Victoria.

In case you didn’t know, David actually got his big break here in Edmonton in the late ‘60s, playing The Embers Night Club, then owned and run by Tommy Banks—now one of the hippest senators ever. Since then, David has gone on to in tons of Grammies, an Oscar or two. He’s worked with many of the biggest and best names in the music industry, and discovered remarkable talent.


                                     Marty and David Foster

It was a pleasure to touch base again at David’s media conference in Edmonton to announce his David Foster Foundation Benefit here in early September. What started as an annual celebrity baseball game with people like the late Sam Kinison, Ray Parker Jr., Olivia Newton John and Burt Bacharah has now evolved into the biggest fund raising event in music. A weekend of activities surrounds the blockbuster evening. David doesn’t preannounce who will entertain at these events but, if past benefits are an indication, we could see Madonna, Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Lionel Richie or Celine Dion.

There are no individual tickets. Tables are being purchased by Edmonton’s business community, starting at $15,000 and ranging up to $50,0000. Daryl Katz’ Rexall Group is the main sponsor—another salute to his Edmonton base—and most of our community leaders will be stepping up with support.

Telus bigwig Dr. Bob Westbury was in attendance, as were Don Metz from Aquilla Productions, Diane Young, formerly of the Stollery Children’s Hospital, James Stuart from The Bounce, Angus Watt of National Bank Financial and many other high profile folks. More details to follow. By the way, after several years in Edmonton radio, both at Corus and CHUM/CTV, James has left The Bounce to join CTV operation in Calgary.
He’s one of the good guys in the biz. In the blatant plug arena (Hey, when you’ve got your own monthly column, you gotta work
it!) I’m exceptionally proud of our Astral Media Radio Edmonton group for being nominated for six Canadian Music Week Awards.
This is an unprecedented amount for our cluster—we lead the entire country with this many awards. And the big news: The Bear won Rock Station of the Year… and Paul Brown, Yukon Jack and Gillian Foote won Morning Show of the Year. Because the CMW Awards are voted on by our peers in the radio and record business, they hold special meaning. It’s certainly nice to get continuos recognition for what you do on a day-to-day basis.

Heard from one of my multi-media friends: Seanna Collins is involved with "Babes Without Babes", which was formed in Edmonton in September 2004. It’s for women 35 and older who do not have children (maternal, adopted or step), and want to connect with other women living the same lifestyle. Seanna is one of the hardest working people in the broadcast field, with success as a morning radio co-host, television personality, and fundraiser. She’s heavily involved in the community. Further info on her group and how to join is at http://www.babeswithoutbabes.ca. Also touched base with another long time associate at Global TV and Magic FM. Mike Sobel got hold of me in regards to the launch of a new station in Calgary that was remarkably similar in format to one we launched here in 1981. Mike was among our original announcers at CJAX FM… which morphed into KING FM, Power 92 and now operates as the very successful JOE FM.

Nice to hear that Reg Milley has announced some new—and better—food services at Edmonton International Airport. Well… that’s what I asked for in my Edmontonians column in January. Not that I take any credit for the improvement. Reg and his team have been making our airport better for some time. I’m thrilled to hear this news, especially faculties in the international waiting area.

Finally, congrats to Premier Ed Stelmach and his Conservatives for their huge win in the provincial election. I know things aren’t perfect in Sunny Alberta but, if you travel as much as I do, you really appreciate living in the prosperity that we do.
Things back east and down south are not very rosy. We’re blessed with a level of economic certainty that is enviable… and I hope the momentum continues. Boom is better than bust.    

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear, EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.

Contact: email:
marty@edmontonians.com

http://www.edmontonians.com  

.]]> Sat, 12 Apr 2008 01:03:21 SAM http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1204430889/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1204430889/#num1 Marty Forbes "Edmontonians"
for March 2008



As I mentioned in last months’ column, I headed down to Phoenix for some R + R time, which included some great motorcycle riding, the Super Bowl and the FBR Phoenix Open Golf Championship. I traveled with my wife Kim, and our Team 1260 Sports Director Bryn Griffiths. Bryn got the two of us media accreditation so we didn’t have to pay the exorbitant prices that Joe Public did for some of these amazing events. Tickets for Super Bowl XLII were being scalped from about $2500 to $4000 each… Entry fee to the exclusive Playboy Party, $2,000… John Travolta and Snoop Dog’s party, $1500…

                                                          Kim and Marty Forbes

The NFL wives fashion show, $750. The biggest freebie was a live Counting Crows concert, followed by a major fireworks show that was held at Tempe Town, smack dab in the middle of the University area.

At the FBR Classic, they broke a one-day attendance record: 178,000 people. That would be like putting the population of Regina on a golf course. Sitting on the side of the famous 16th hole,—where the raucous crowd cheers and boos and the likes of The Press Gallery Bernie Robitaille and Pete Kozial held court—you could watch private jets landing at the Scottsdale airport virtually every two minutes.

These two events have a massive impact on the Phoenix economy, and projected to bring in approximately $400 million that week. Hotel rooms charged around $500 a night, with a four-night minimum. Taxi rides from Scottsdale to the Super Bowl and back set you back $125 so you can see it’s a rich man’s week.

By the way, as we continue to discuss Edmonton’s potential downtown arena—or, as I prefer to call it, the ‘entertainment complex’—it should be noted that Phoenix has four major league teams in the area including NFL, NHL, baseball and NBA franchises. Each has its own individual stadium.

The baseball stadium actually has a swimming pool behind the outfield wall. The $500-million NFL stadium, which is on university land, has a grass field that is on a moving tray. The field is moved out onto the parking area all week long to be maintained and then moved in to the stadium for NFL or university games. The roof not only opens but also can be adjusted sideways so that the sun doesn’t beat down on patrons during a game. The hockey arena has a fabulous centre court with tons of
restaurants, a stage for live bands, two hotels, a convention centre, shopping area, massive fountains, and probably the best sports bar I’ve ever seen.

The economic impact of these teams and their facilities is obviously huge to the city, and they say that the Super Bowl will, most likely, be awarded to Phoenix about every sixth or seventh year. Weather was described as ‘chilly’ at 60º F when I left Phoenix, and I stepped off the plane to minus 30 C. Ouch. Upon return I treated my daughter Lauren to a birthday dinner at Ruth’s Chris in the World Trade Centre Edmonton. If you haven’t been to this gem of a restaurant, you’re missing a fine experience. General Manager Brian Welsh and his staff know the meaning of first class—a truly wonderful place to spend an evening or do lunch.

During dinner we were talking about old friends, and the name Bobby Curtola popped into my mind. Kim worked with Bobby for several years. As we stepped out of the restaurant guess who we bumped into? Yup: Bobby’s just moved back to town after a few years in Halifax. He always has interesting opportunities on the go. I’ll update you on what he’s involved with now in a later column.

Last month I told you about the upcoming CRTC hearings for another FM licence in our city. The process is now closed and a few well-known local media types threw their hats into the fray this time around.
Don Kay has been working in media for many, many years, having toiled for my father at CHED early on in his career. Another Edmonton/Phoenix gentleman who has applied is John Yerxa. John owns and runs a well respected research company and is also a radio brat. His father, the late Hal Yerxa, was the owner of CFCW and CKRA.

As I run competitive properties here in town, I certainly have to be cautious with my thoughts; however as a columnist for Edmontonians, I think you can see where my allegiance would fall if the CRTC awards another licence. The hearing should be later this summer, with a decision in the fall, and potential on-air date about this time next year.

Finally, from my trip down south, I found out where our Alberta ducks go when they fly south for the winter.

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear, EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.
Contact
marty@edmontonians.com

http://www.edmontonians.com

]]> Sat, 1 Mar 2008 23:08:09 SAM http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1202502469/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1202502469/#num1 Marty Forbes "Edmontonians"
February 2008
        


The red hot Alberta economy has attracted interest from several broadcasters across the country as the CRTC has issued yet another call for more “new FM licences” in the City of Edmonton. The deadline has just passed and I think you’ll see anywhere between nine and 12 various applications presented. This on the heels of the four new radio stations the city got just over two years ago.
In a market where there are already 23 off-air signals, (inclusive of CKUA, CBC, CJSR, Satellite, Internet), I personally think we’ve reached the saturation point. However, most of these applicants think there is a niche format or two that the city might be interested in. Applications will be heard later this year.

Before I forget, I’d like to compliment my key Astral Media radio program directors Ryan Zimmerman at The Bear and Steve Moore at E Z Rock for placing first and second in the FM rankings in the Fall Bureau of Broadcast measurements’ ratings. That is quite an accomplishment in our highly competitive market. The #1 overall spot goes to Doug Rutherford’s Corus News Talk station 630 CHED on AM.

People stuff: Gord Whitehead is back behind the CHED mic after his shoulder operation.We’ll find out how well it really took when he tees off in the spring. Good to have one of the city’s best broadcasters back on the airwaves.And, the station’s long-running Santa’s Anonymous campaign was a huge success again this year, despite a very challenging time dealing with the tainted toy problems that have been well documented. Good work and congrats to Debbie Walker and her team.

Well-known media rep Bonni Clark has left her position at Northlands to join ex-media guy, Steve Hogle, at the Alberta Research Council.

There’s a lot happening on the local television scene: At CTV, Promotions Manager David Fisher tells me that Glenn Kubish was named news director in December, replacing Steve Hogle. As well, CTV Canada AM now has gone “Live Across Canada” and added more local daily Edmonton content on the weekday mornings, between 6 and 9 a.m.Web coverage is being increased with the arrival of Amanda Ferguson from the East, and a ramping-up behind the scenes with former Edmonton Journal guy Stewart Shaw. You’ll be seeing Amanda hosting a daily feature in the 6 o’clock news on interesting web stories.

Global General Manager Tim Spelliscy checks in with this update: Paul Ackerman took over as general sales manager in December. Paul is also known for his time at the former K-97, now K-Rock. One of his first hires is Holly Krueger, another long time radio lady and former K-Rock alumnus. Holly has been at the University of Alberta in the sports department for the past year or so.
And, Mark Jan Vrem, former Global Edmonton news director, has surfaced as interim news boss at the network’s Calgary station.
Global News anchor Lynda Steele’s book, Laptop Diaries, became a local best seller in November/December with the entire print run of 5000 copies sold out. I applaud her generosity and that of Richard McCallum who didn’t charge for the printing: 100 percent of the proceeds went to Edmonton Women’s Shelters.

Downtown at City TV, well known GM Craig Roskin informs me that Rogers is now fully operating the downtown station. The final game plan is not set yet; however, you’ll be seeing the new OMNI ethnic television station signing on some time this fall. The OMNI brand is available in several other markets, and will be evolving in Edmonton and Calgary over the next several months.
Gracing the hallways of City right now is my daughter Rayanne who is taking her NAIT practicum at the station.
Finally, a tip of the hat to the Edmonton Oil Kings—especially to Nick Wilson and Coach Steve Pleau—on an excellent launch of junior hockey in our city this season. For a first-year WHL team they presented an entertaining product featuring a group of up and coming hockey stars. They also just hosted the amazing Junior Prospects game to showcase the talents of the world’s best
17-year olds in front of more than 300 scouts prior to the upcoming NHL draft. Kudos’ to the entire Oilers/Oil King operation on a great start in the City of Champions.

I don’t want to gloat but… Kim and I headed south before the big chill hit Edmonton. Now, it’s off to Phoenix for the Superbowl. I live a blessed life.

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear,
EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.
Contact
marty@edmontonians.com



http://www.edmontonians.com ]]> Fri, 8 Feb 2008 15:27:49 SAM http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1195225960/ http://www.pugetsoundradio.com/forum/m-1195225960/#num1 Marty Forbes
"Edmontonians" Column - Nov 07
        

Kind of a potpourri of items related to media this month.  First off, one of my favourite Edmonton media people is Newcap’s Jackie Rae Greening—legendary in the country music field—CFCW and Big Earl—and one of the most awarded people in our industry. Not only is JR great at her job but she’s heavily involved in many great Canadian and international events that our city hosts. In fact, she did a great job as host committee president of the 2007 Ford World’s Men’s Curling Championships last April. If you get a chance to meet this laugh-a-minute lady, don’t miss the opportunity.

My wife Kim and I got an invite from the lovely Bonni Clark of Northlands to the Keith Urban concert in September. JR was in top form and had the suite in stitches most of the evening. Hey Bon… is Cowboy Poker coming back for the CFR? Make it happen.

Congratulations go out to general manager Randy Lemay for his promotion to “King of All Alberta” radio.  He’s now in charge of the many Newcap stations throughout the province. As well, my long time pal and former employee Terry Evans has made his return to K-Rock mornings after a 15-month hiatus. Gord Robson, ex of CHED and Newcap fame, is now full time afternoons on Cool 880 and is one of the best mentors in broadcast.

James Stuart’s Bounce staff are readying themselves for an ownership change that finds them under the direction of Lloyd Lewis and CTV Edmonton. Tim Weinberger, long time general sales manager of Global Edmonton has left the building and is thinking of new career goals.  I met Global’s zany weather lady Nicola Crosbie last month when she dropped by EZ Rock promoting the Dancing for Kids, a charity event which she most handily won. That girl had moves that had the judges in shock mode…especially The Sun’s Graham Hicks.

You might note there’s a new local TV channel by now.  At this writing, the search was still on for final placement on the dial, but keep your remote control hopping to find Crossroads Television System—CTS—which will bring a large variety of religious programming to Edmonton. I met the national sales and marketing director Glenn Stewart last month and bump into their local contact Marnie Stretch almost daily in the CTV building.

Long time radio and TV guy, Chuck Chandler is being ‘rebuilt’ with knee surgery, while another former CHED “Good Guy” Jay Hamilton is filling in for him.  Keith James Jr., yet another radio guy (CHED/CISN) just finished rebuilding his 1950’s Classic T-Bird from the ground up, and driving it back and forth to Virginia. It’s a beautiful beast built with love by one of my favourite people. Keith’s lovely lady Donna grew up literally across the alley from me in the Highlands. She was with the famed Three’s a Crowd group that gained international fame well before the CRTC instigated Canadian content regulations.

A number of locals made the final cut at the annual Canadian Association of Broadcasters Gold Ribbon Awards. 630 CHED’s Michelle Bowden does a tremendous job of her “Inside Story” feature and once again WON the Gold Ribbon in Ottawa.   Our own Paul Brown’s “Bear‘s Toughest Contest” was also nominated and, as mentioned last month, Edmontonians columnist Bruce Hogle, former CFRN news director, was inducted into the CAB Hall of Fame at this gala gathering.

And a wonderful goodbye and best wishes to long time Standard Radio Edmonton chief engineer Bruce Bedford on his retirement. Having wrapped up his career here, Bruce and Maureen are building a new home on the Left Coast. For those of you who don’t know, “engineers” keep radio and television stations on the air 24/7/365. They are arguably the hardest working people in media and seldom get their fair recognition for making on-air performers look and sound so good.

Finally, I wanted to send a big thank you out to the dedicated people at NAIT’s Radio and Television program. Patrick Galenza heads it up, and the instructors are all highly qualified media people who share their radio and television experience with young people trying to enter the broadcast business. My daughter Rayanne and stepson Jeremy have graduated, hoping to make their marks in TV and radio, respectively. If your offspring have similar aspirations, you can be assured that they’ll be taught by some of the best in the business.  NAIT, I’d also suggest, has one of the finest placement percentages in the broadcast industry—you watch/hear many of them on Edmonton, Toronto and Vancouver stations.

Have a great month. Support the United Way.

marty@edmontonians.com
http://www.edmontonians.com/

Marty Forbes is VP and general manager of The Bear, EZRock and The TEAM 1260 Sports Radio.
]]> Fri, 16 Nov 2007 10:12:40 Marty Forbes