KSFI ("FM-100") has long been one of the premier adult contemporary radio stations in the Salt Lake market. But in the nation?
According to a study in AC Insider magazine, KSFI is fifth nationally among contemporary stations based on its overall ratings for the past year.
Mike Kinosian, who conducted the study, also found KSFI is one of the top-two performing AC stations when comparing quarter-hour listening shares only.
KSFI, developed by Simmons Media, was sold to Bonneville International Corp. last year. Other than an occasional reference to being a Bonneville station and a DJ change since KSFI changed hands, it appears to be as strong as ever.
BARBERI IN "CENTURY CLUB" — Tom Barberi of KALL (AM-700) is ranked as one of the "100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America — Class of 2004," according to the March issue of "Talkers Talk Magazine."
Criteria used for the list include ratings, longevity, uniqueness, potential, social impact, service, industry recognition and recognition by other media.
Barberi's listing reads: "Consistent performer in competitive Salt Lake City market. Eschews pack mentality."
This is the second time Barberi has been on the list. He said he's surprised about the ranking and very proud.
Barberi has been at KALL for 33 years. Although he may not have a top-10 ratings in the three main Arbitron age groups, Barberi has a steady core audience — and whether you like his style or not, he does sound different from other talk-show hosts.
KZHT (FM-97.1) has hired Holly for it's "Z-Morning Zoo" show. She joins Frankie, Dangerboy and "Lil' Joe" weekdays from 5:30-9 a.m.
A University of Utah graduate, she worked in marketing as an art director and graphic designer. She started her broadcasting career as a traffic reporter and eventually became a DJ.
She once won a Nickelodeon Television contest as "Kid DJ for the Day" and previously worked for KRDC (St. George) and Salt Lake's KNRS, KALL, KKAT and KISN. She replaces Mary, who left the show in February.
RADIO HAPPENINGS — KBYU (FM-89.1) will broadcast "About Shakespeare," a 13-part radio series beginning today and continuing through June 26 at 6:30 p.m. (Repeats will air Saturdays at 4:30 p.m.) The series, which was produced by the station, explores the writings of Britain's greatest writer. It will feature BYU faculty and other experts and is hosted by Sharon Swenson of the BYU department of theatre and media arts.
— KBYU will also feature the sounds of the Tabernacle and LDS Conference Center organs in the program, "Harmonies of Heaven: The LDS Organs," Saturday, April 3, noon and again on Thursday, April 29, 9 p.m. Host Mark Wait visits with Tabernacle organists John Longhurst, Richard Elliott and Clay Christiansen.
— KSOP (FM-104.3) presents a no-repeat song workday each Monday. However, if you do hear a song repeated, call the station and win $1,000.
— Shawn Stevens on KBEE hosts "The All-request Lunchtime Bee'stro" each weekday from noon-1 p.m. Send an e-mail to beestro@b987.com to request your favorite song.
E-mail: lynn@desnews.com