Join LBS Broadcast Selling Expert, Paul Weyland, for a high-impact webinar complete with actionable strategies to help you close fourth-quarter deals and carry momentum forward. We’ll explore proven techniques to attract holiday advertisers across Christmas, New Year's, and other key celebrations, as well as practical insights for driving both time-sensitive and long-term campaigns. Whether you’re boosting billings or building advertiser value, this session will equip you to lead with confidence and deliver results. Paul Weyland collaborates with local radio and television stations nationwide. He’s constantly dealing with local direct clients. You’ll come away from the session with fresh, great ideas that you can pitch immediately. As always, with Paul Weyland sessions, you can expect to be thoroughly entertained while learning and professionally growing. Since this is an LBS 2nd Tuesday Webinar, you already know you’ll gain practical, proven techniques you can apply immediately. Waiting until next quarter is not an option when tomorrow's results are on the line today! This webinar is offered to NYSBA members in good standing free of charge.   You may register here .

Earlier this year, NAB proposed a plan to mandate a hard date for the transition to Next Gen TV (ATSC 3.0).  The FCC put the proposal out for comment, and it immediately drew opposition from the usual entities.  NAB’s plan would involve two phases.  TV stations in the top 55 markets would transition by February 2028, and TV stations in the remaining markets would transition by February 2030.    Representatives from the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), National Cable Telecommunications Association, LPTV representatives, and a few “public interest” groups all opposed the plan.   We have heard all these arguments before when we transitioned from analog to digital services in 2009.  Bottom line, a successful transition to ATSC 3.0 is critical for the survival of local television stations.     Last week, NAB General Counsel Rick Kaplan published a succinct response to the ATSC critics.  Because of its importance, we are publishing the entire text of his blog.   “Another day, another reflexive, innovation-blocking  FCC filing  from the usual suspects – cable lobbyists, legacy advocacy groups and industry players who oppose anything that might strengthen free, over-the-air broadcasting or challenge the dominance of their own outdated business models. Their latest attack on ATSC 3.0 – the Next Gen TV broadcast standard already delivering improved video, immersive audio, innovative interactive features, and more – is as predictable as it is tired.  Let’s be clear: these groups aren’t protecting the public. They’re protecting their turf.  Their familiar talking points are still wrong:  1. “This will cost consumers too much.”   Here’s what’s really happening: broadcasters are working to preserve and strengthen free television for everyone, while our competitors are busy finding new ways to extract more money from viewers every month by diverting viewers to paid streaming services and apps they monetize. CTA, for one, uses faulty logic to suggest ATSC 3.0 tuners are responsible for an $80 price difference between TVs with Next Gen TV capability and those without, ignoring the fact that those models often include other premium features that drive up the cost. For example, many of the TVs that include Next Gen tuners also offer 8K video, higher-end display technologies, high refresh rates, and upgraded speakers. The manufacturers who are actively embracing ATSC 3.0 – many of whom are ironically “represented” by CTA – are delivering real value to consumers and helping to modernize free, over-the-air television. We should be celebrating this innovation, not undermining it.  2. “Innovation will suffer.”   To the contrary, innovation is happening, and it’s threatening those eager to protect their profits. ATSC 3.0 brings flexible, secure, IP-based broadcasting to viewers without the strings of Big Tech. The objections about digital rights management (DRM) are driven by fear of losing control, not genuine concern for open ecosystems. We also wonder if NCTA bothered to check with its members before joining a filing arguing that encryption is bad.  3. “Cable companies will suffer.”   Welcome to the 21st century. Pay-TV providers built their empires reselling broadcast television. Now they don’t want to invest in updates to stay current? Or are they afraid that a stronger over-the-air platform might allow more viewers to drop the costly monthly cable bill? As we know all too well, these companies simply do not want to pay for anything, whether it’s broadcasters’ signals, the spectrum it uses to compete with licensed users or – as everyone knows – actual customer service.  4. “Broadcasters will use the spectrum for other services.”   Exactly. And thank goodness.  Broadcasting is the only industry that has consistently done more with less spectrum, down from channels 2–69 before the DTV transition to channels 2–36 today, while also down-sizing our spectrum footprint in the 2 GHz, 3.7-4.2 GHz, 6 GHz, and 12 GHz bands. Contrast this with every other industry – including cable and CTA’s members – where they are routinely begging that the Federal Communications Commission grant them access to more spectrum.  Using what’s left to deliver public safety, datacasting, and educational services is a public good, not a scandal.  5. “Small broadcasters can’t afford this.”   Some smaller broadcasters need help, and we support that. That’s why NAB is not asking the FCC to require LPTV stations to upgrade and, in fact, has asked the FCC to allow non-commercial educational broadcasters more time to transition if needed. The answer isn’t to stall the entire industry. It’s to provide targeted support, not blanket inaction.   It’s also rich for massive pay-TV companies to suddenly be advocating on behalf of small broadcasters. The irony here is not lost on anyone.  The Bottom Line   Let’s stop pretending this rag-tag opposition speaks for the public. It’s not clear that NCTA or CTA know what the public interest is. Millions of television viewers are already enjoying the benefits of Next Gen TV. The people who actually produce and deliver local, free, over-the-air content – broadcasters — are united in support of completing the transition. It’s the only way to ensure broadcast TV remains available to everyone and resilient in a world of fast-moving tech and rising costs.  The future is here. Let’s finish the transition and stop letting yesterday’s gatekeepers block tomorrow’s platform.”  You can access Rick Kaplan's blog here .

It’s all happening at NAB Show New York, October 21–23 at the Javits Center.    Just announced: Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh, will keynote with a fireside chat on building superfans and monetizing content in today’s creator-driven world.   Also on tap: A full-day Creator Economy takeover All-new Sports Track with leagues, Tech and influencers Future of Journalism symposium featuring AI and automation 300+ exhibitors showcasing next-gen tools and tech.   Get on the pre-reg list now for early access when registration opens in July by clicking here .

A recent article in Radio Ink  reported on an important analysis published by the Katz Radio Group.  While radio is perceived to be low value compared to digital, the data says otherwise.  The article stated: “Marketers may be bullish on digital, but data again shows they are overlooking one of the strongest assets around. Despite ranking low in perceived effectiveness, radio delivers double the returns on investment, outperforming all other platforms but one. As reported by  Katz Radio Group , radio ranks at the bottom in perceived effectiveness among all media categories surveyed by Nielsen, with just 46% of marketers believing it’s a strong performer. However, when measured by actual average ROI, radio ranks second overall, delivering $2.00 for every advertising dollar spent.” The Katz Radio Group Report is worth reading.  You can see the report as reported in Radio Ink   here .

Inside Radio  recently reported on a new analysis of commuting patterns and listening patterns by Katz Media Group.   Bottom line, the increases in commuting are bringing radio listening along with them.   The article stated:      “With more people commuting, car usage is surging. This echoes earlier findings on rising traffic congestion in major metros, as downtown activity picks back up, Katz says. For radio, this means more time spent with a captive audience in the car, where it still reigns supreme. According to Edison Research’s Share of Ear, nine out of every 10 minutes of ad-supported audio listening in the car is spent with AM/FM radio. That dominance translates into a powerful scale for advertisers looking to connect with consumers who are alert, mobile and often ready to take action.” Returning to work will be important for radio as it rebounds.  You can see the analysis by Katz Media Group in Inside Radio   here .

The  “Big Beautiful Bill” reinstated the FCC’s ability to conduct spectrum auctions.  The FCC’s authority to conduct such auctions ended in 2023, but it is now reinstated through September 30, 2034. FCC Chairman Carr stated: “I want to extend my congratulations to President Trump and Congressional Republicans on securing this big win for the country. Restoring U.S. leadership in wireless is key to the nation’s economic and national security interests. And the One Big Beautiful Bill succeeds where past efforts failed. The legislation restores the FCC’s spectrum auction authority after it lapsed in 2023, and it does so by establishing a robust pipeline of spectrum for years to come. This will create jobs, encourage innovation, and expand high-speed connections to more Americans.” What does this mean for broadcasters?  For the past several years, the FCC has not been able to open new channels for broadcast stations because it lacked auction authority. Moreover, in the past few decades, the FCC auctioned UHF channels (37-69), originally used for television, and sold them for new wireless services.  We have also seen spectrum used for broadcast auxiliary services (BAS) and satellite services reassigned for non-broadcast related services.  The legislation requires the FCC and NTIA to identify 800 MHz of spectrum to be auctioned over the next eight years. You can see FCC Chairman Carr’s statement here . You can see FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty’s statement supporting the FCC’s renewed auction authority here .

Join us on July 17th at Noon EST for a Ten Minute Trainer Webinar hosted by communication expert Ryan Dearbone. "The Communication Code: Unlocking the Secret to Stronger Relationships" will cover how clear, confident communication is the key to stronger relationships, and we’ve got an opportunity to help you improve yours. In this dynamic session, communication expert Ryan Dearbone will share real-world strategies to: Improve how you connect with others Communicate with more clarity and purpose Build trust and navigate tough conversations This webinar is free for NYSBA members in good standing. Click here to register.

Once again, we will be hosting our “in-person” regional sales training in September.  The sessions will focus on   “Broadcasting Brilliance: Elevate Your Sales with AI and Human Expertise: Where Smart Technology Meets Smart Selling.”    These practical, forward-thinking sessions will be tailored for New York broadcast professionals. Explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the broadcast selling landscape. Discover cutting-edge strategies to harness AI and other tools that can optimize your outreach, enhance audience engagement through better creative for your ad messages, and drive revenue like never before. From crafting compelling ad campaigns and written communication to analyzing viewer data for maximum impact, these sessions will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to outshine the competition and bring value to your clients and station. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your sales approach and propel your success in the broadcasting arena! Sign up today and step into a future where innovation supports you in maximizing revenue building opportunities. Make this your moment to lead with confidence and sell smarter—because when smart technology meets smart selling, opportunity follows.   The sessions will feature Gary Moore, President and CEO of Insight Edge and Local Broadcast Sales (LBS). LBS is the nation's best independent sales training and business development platform for broadcaster sellers and leaders. Insight Edge, Inc. specializes in consulting and ad management focused on sales development and personality-based training and assessment. Gary has collaborated with over 4,000 media companies nationwide to develop leaders and sales teams, integrating traditional and digital media to boost revenue and market share. For eight years, Gary was the Co-Founder and Dean of the NYSBA Certified TV Sales School. Gary was pivotal in the digital integration of traditional media, including day-to-day contributions that led to realtor.com . Also, he engaged Gannett with the acquisition of automotive and real estate digital platforms. The sessions will run from 10 AM to 12 Noon at the following locations:   Buffalo  – Aloft Buffalo Downtown, 500 Pearl Street | Monday, September 22 Rochester  – The Strathallan Hotel, 550 East Avenue | Tuesday, September 23 Syracuse  – Embassy Suites by Hilton Syracuse Destiny USA, 311 Hiawatha Blvd. | Wednesday, September 24 Binghamton  – Binghamton Country Club, 1401 Robinson Hill Rd, Endwell | Thursday, September 25 Albany – Wolfert’s Roost Country Club, 120 Van Rensselaer Blvd. | Friday, September 26   Each session is followed by our “Excellence in Broadcasting and Serving New York” luncheons.  Those attending the training session are cordially invited to attend the luncheons.  The training sessions and luncheons are provided free of charge to NYSBA members in good standing. You can register for the training sessions and regional luncheons here .

The FCC issued a Notice of Illegal Pirate Operation to another property owner on Hill Avenue in the Bronx. This time, the illegal pirate station was operating on 91.3 FM. Once again, the Commission focused on the property owner. “Accordingly, you are hereby notified and warned that the FCC may issue a fine of up to $2,453,218 if, following the response period set forth below, we determine that you have continued to permit any individual or entity to engage in pirate radio broadcasting from the property that you own or manage. If you do not respond to this Notice, the FCC may nonetheless determine that, as a legal matter, you have sufficient knowledge of the above-referenced pirate radio activity to support enforcement action against you. Service of this Notice to you or your agent establishes the foundation, along with other evidence, that could lead to significant financial penalties.” In the Notice, the FCC asked the property owner to provide the name and contact information of the illegal pirate station operator.  We applaud the FCC’s continued efforts to eliminate illegal pirate radio stations.  Keep up the good work! You can see the FCC Notice here .

If making calls makes you hesitate, sweat, or stall, you’re not alone. But it’s time to stop letting doubt win. Join us LIVE on July 9th at noon EST for a game-changing session with sales expert Bryan Marriott. Whether you’re brand-new to sales or just in a slump, this session will help you reset and rewire your calling mindset. You’ll learn how to: Break through call anxiety and build real momentum Ditch the script and speak with confidence Handle rejection without losing your nerve Make calls that actually lead to conversations (and wins) Register here .

Radio Ink reported on an interesting report by Edison Research, which focused on the way Gen Z discovers new music.  The analysis found: “Gen Z listens to an average of 4 hours and 10 minutes of audio each day. Of that, AM/FM radio claims 16% of Gen Z’s total daily audio time, putting it in third place behind streaming music (42%) and YouTube (20%), but ahead of podcasts and SiriusXM combined.” What was most interesting is that listening levels among the youngest listeners tend to be the highest.  The article continued:  “While AM/FM radio may not lead audio consumption for Gen Z, an interesting turnaround is at play: 10% of 13–17-year-olds cite AM/FM radio as their top music discovery source. That figure is more than double the rate of 18–24-year-olds (4%), suggesting a generational uptick in radio’s influence among younger listeners.” The article shows that local radio continues to be well ahead of Spotify and similar services.  The article is worth reading. You can find the article in Radio Ink here .

The staff at NYSBA wishes you a happy 4th of July. Thank you for your continued support. Have a safe long weekend, broadcasters!

Last September, the FCC amended its rules to allow FM stations to conduct asymmetric sideband operations.  In other words, stations may operate sidebands using different power levels.  In its decision, the FCC concluded: “We therefore authorize digital FM stations, except stations operating on Channels 296 - 300, to originate digital transmissions at different power levels on the upper and lower digital sidebands without having to request experimental authorization, consistent with the requirements set forth herein. As further discussed below, a digital FM station need only notify us of asymmetric sideband operation by filing notification on Form 2100, Schedule 335-FM – FM Digital Notification (Schedule 335-FM) in the Bureau’s Licensing and Management System (LMS) database.” The FCC has now issued a compliance guideline to help stations that want to use this flexibility.  The guidelines cover: Objectives of the proceeding Compliance requirements Recordkeeping and reporting requirements Implementation date Internet links to FCC documents Stations looking to use asymmetric power on their sidebands should review this compliance document. You can access the FCC’s Compliance Guide here . You can access the FCC’s Report and Order permitting asymmetric sideband operations here .

The FCC has issued a Notice of Illegal Pirate Radio Broadcasting to a property owner in the Bronx.  The FCC’s Enforcement Bureau notified the property owner that an unlicensed radio station was operating from the property and broadcasting on 89.3 FM.  The FCC’s notice stated: “Accordingly, you are hereby notified and warned that the FCC may issue a fine of up to $2,453,218 if, following the response period set forth below, we determine that you have continued to permit any individual or entity to engage in pirate radio broadcasting from the property that you own or manage.” NYSBA applauds the FCC’s continued efforts to eliminate illegal pirate stations from New York.  We especially want to thank the engineers and professionals in the Region 1 Field Office for their continued efforts to locate illegal pirate radio operations.     You can see the FCC’s Notice of Illegal Pirate Radio Broadcasting here .

It’s no secret: today’s sales cycles are more complex than ever. And yet, 92% of sales professionals still miss the mark on the touchpoints needed to close deals. Why? Because dated sales tactics don’t cut it anymore. In this fast-paced, high-impact session, we’re flipping the script. You’ll discover how persistence becomes your secret weapon, decode the “Circle of Romance” to build connection and momentum, and lock down five must-do moves that will instantly strengthen your pipeline. This session is a MUST for sellers, sales managers, and station owners. Don’t miss out!   The webinar features Shannon Kinney, President of Dream Local Digital.  Kinney brings more than 30 years of experience in leadership roles developing scalable digital marketing strategies. She played a vital role in the development of such corporate giants as Cars.com , CareerBuilder.com , Knight Ridder Digital, LinkedIn, Google, eBay, and Microsoft until she founded Dream Local Digital. Since Dream Local Digital’s creation in 2009, Shannon has helped media companies transform their business model and supported thousands of SMBs to develop and execute marketing strategies designed to grow and scale their businesses.   This webinar is provided to NYSBA members in good standing free of charge.   Register here .

With Senate confirmation of new FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty, the FCC is wasting no time moving with Chairman Carr’s deregulatory agenda.  The first step will be the FCC’s proceeding to relax the National TV multiple ownership rules, which was first opened in 2017.  In its new Public Notice ,  the FCC stated: “In December 2017, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (National Cap NPRM) to seek comment on whether to retain, modify, or eliminate its rule limiting entities from owning or controlling broadcast television stations that, in the aggregate, reach more than 39% of the television audience households in the United States. The National Cap NPRM also sought comment on a component of the rule which provides a 50% discount to UHF stations for purposes of calculating compliance with the 39% audience reach cap, often referred to as the “UHF discount.” By reopening the record, the FCC anticipates a broad discussion of the national TV ownership rules, including the changes that have taken place in the media marketplace and the impact the rules have on local television stations.      This is an important proceeding.  Comments will be due 25 days after the Public Notice is published in the Federal Register.  The reply comments will be due 45 days after the date of publication.    You can access the FCC’s public notice here .

The New York Federal Reserve’s monthly report shows a continuing decline in service sector economic activity.  The report is based on a survey of business leaders in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey.  According to the June report: “Business activity in the region’s service sector continued to decline in June, according to firms responding to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Business Leaders Survey.  The survey’s headline business activity index edged up three points but held below zero at -13.2.  The business climate index remained firmly negative at -48.3, suggesting the business climate continued to be considerably worse than normal.  Employment edged slightly lower, and wage growth dropped to its slowest pace in more than four years.  Supply availability worsened significantly.  Input price increases picked up, while selling price increases were little changed.  Firms remained pessimistic about the outlook, though less so than in the prior couple of months.” Thus, while business activity in this sector has increased slightly, we are still well below normal. You can see the full report of the New York Federal Reserve here .

An interesting article in Media Post in Television News Daily reported on a TVB analysis focusing on linear TV as compared with other streaming services.  While Nielsen just released data indicating that streaming secured a larger viewing share than linear TV, a more important comparison is between platforms that advertise.  On this point, the Article notes a recent TVB analysis concluding linear TV has more viewing than other digital platforms that contain advertisements.  The article reported: “Despite a recently released Nielsen viewing measure that touts streaming dominance over linear, TVB -- the trade group representing legacy over-the-air linear TV stations -- says linear TV still tops streaming when it comes to viewing share of platforms/networks with advertising. TVB (formerly Television Bureau of Advertising) says that when looking at Nielsen’s Gauge May total day viewing results -- from only those streaming platforms/linear TV networks (broadcast and cable) that have advertising -- linear TV still commands a sizable share lead compared to streaming, at 55.1% vs. 41.1% for viewers two years of age and older.” This finding is important.  The key issue for your advertising clients is which platform provides the greatest viewing and best value.  That platform continues to be traditional linear television.   You can see the full article in Television News Daily Media Post   here .

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (H.R. 979) has obtained the support of a majority of members of the U.S. House of Representatives.  As of today, 227 members have signed on to cosponsor the bill.  The magic number of 218 to secure a majority was reached last week.  We are continuing our efforts to secure even more support.  As it now stands, 14 members of the New York delegation have cosponsored the bill.   Rep. Espaillat, Adriano [D-NY-13]    Rep. Garbarino, Andrew R. [R-NY-2] Rep. Gillen, Laura [D-NY-4] Rep. LaLota, Nick [R-NY-1] Rep. Langworthy, Nicholas A. [R-NY-23] Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17] Rep. Meng, Grace [D-NY-6] Rep. Morelle, Joseph D. [D-NY-25]           Rep. Nadler, Jerrold [D-NY-12]   Rep. Riley, Josh [D-NY-19]            Rep. Stefanik, Elise M. [R-NY-21] Rep. Suozzi, Thomas R. [D-NY-3] Rep. Tenney, Claudia [R-NY-24] Rep. Velázquez, Nydia M. [D-NY-7]   Minority Leader Sen. Schumer supports the bill in the Senate.  Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is also a cosponsor.  We are working hard to get 100% support from the New York delegation.   You can access H.R. 979 here .

As we have been reporting, we strongly opposed legislation in New York (S.1228C and A.606B), which would have required local stations to include a disclosure label on any advertisement that included a computer-generated character or synthetic performer.  Failure to include a disclosure could result in significant penalties.  Our concerns were summarized in previous articles.  We also launched a radio and TV campaign opposing the legislation. After a series of negotiations and long nights, we are happy to report that the legislation was amended significantly.  The amended version passed the Senate (S.8420A) last week and is being voted on in the Assembly (A.8887B) as we go to press.  Here are the important changes. Audio advertisements : Audio-only advertisements (radio & podcasts) are  completely exempt from the legislation. Video Advertisements: Liability on Creator, Not Stations Broadcasting Ads from Other Program Suppliers:  The obligation to include a disclosure for using a computer-generated “synthetic performer” rests solely with the creator or producer of the advertisement. Earlier versions of the legislation made local New York stations responsible for advertisements received from networks or other program suppliers, e.g., ads included in barter syndicated programs.  This presented stations with an impossible task of prescreening and placing disclosures on ads received from other program suppliers.  Under the new legislation, entities in the “distribution chain,” such as local television stations, have no obligation to insert a “synthetic performer” disclosure in these advertisements and are not liable if they lack a disclosure. If a TV station creates an ad for a commercial client, it will be responsible for including a disclosure label if it uses a computer-generated “synthetic performer.”   Therefore, local stations using new AI systems must insert a disclosure if there is a computer-generated human character and voice. Language Translations are Excluded :  Translating an ad from one language to another is not considered to be using a “synthetic performer.”  Content of Disclosure Left Up to Ad Creator: The legislation does not prescribe language for the disclosure.  At this point, the language used in the video disclosure is left up to the creator.  However, we expect the regulations to be adopted to implement the legislation that may try to mandate a specific label. Effective Date in 180 Days: The legislation gives stations time to adjust.  The law does not become effective 180 days after it is signed by the Governor and enacted into law.  This may take some time.   Overly Broad Definition of Synthetic Performer : The legislation adopts an extremely broad definition as to what constitutes a synthetic performer.  Simply stated, nearly every computer-generated image taking a human form would constitute a “synthetic performer” under the legislation.  With the exception of language translations, this would apply to modifications of an image.  In the extreme case, this could even apply to “cartoon characters” like “Mr. Clean.”  This includes not only the primary character in an advertisement, but computer-generated human images appearing in the background as well. Synthetic Characters are not Inherently Deceptive : The legislation adds a new provision to New York’s laws against false and deceptive advertising.  The legislation assumes “synthetic performers” are inherently deceptive.  This is certainly not the case.  From a consumer’s perspective, there is no difference between a human being dressed up to impersonate a character and a computer-generated image that achieves the same result.  The real issue is the truthfulness of what is being said in an advertisement, not whether the character making the statement is computer-generated or a real human, which reveals the true purpose of the legislation.  This is a labor bill, proposed by SAG, which is being presented as a consumer protection bill. The legislation will, at some point, move from the legislature to the Governor’s desk.  At this point, we are not sure when this will happen.  The major advertising agencies remain opposed to the legislation.  We expect there may be efforts to obtain a veto from the Governor, or at the least, seek additional modifications.  While not perfect, the legislation has come a long way.  We want to thank the stations that contacted members of the New York State Senate and Assembly.  We especially want to thank the radio and television stations that broadcast our PSA spots.  You really made a difference.    You can see the revised legislation here .