News Articles From Days Gone By

Stern stooge stiffs bars...faces jail.
(30 April 2009)
Captain Janks, a prominent member of Howard Stern's crew, has apparently been deceiving bar owners out of performance cash. Janks (a.k.a. Thomas Cipriano) has been sent to jail for accepting $350 in advances from bar owners for comedy appearances and never showing up. Cipriano had apparently been telling bar owners that, in exchange for a live appearance, he would promote the bars on the Howard Stern Sirius radio show. Saying he canceled his planned tour because of medical and personal issues, Cipriano said he would either reschedule or refund the money.    more>>


Sirius bites the poison pill.
(30 April 2009)
SiriusXM is planning to adopt a shareholder-rights plan to make hostile takeovers more difficult. The poison pill plan stipulates that if any entity buys 4.9 percent or more of the satcaster's outstanding shares without the approval of the board, a significant dilution in the voting and economic ownership of the investor would occur. The plan specifically exempts future acquisitions by Sirius savior Liberty Media. The move, yet to be approved by stockholders, is said to be a defense against organizations like EchoStar, which was looking at SiriusXM as a potential tax writeoff against future profits. Says Sirius boss Mel Karmazin, "Our net operating loss carry-forwards are an important asset of the company; an asset that we believe we should make every effort to protect."    more>>

iBiquity gets a new HD Radio partner.
(30 April 2009)
Quality and safety provider Intertek has announced a partnership with HD Radio purveyor iBiquity for the testing and certification of digital radio receivers. The HD Radio certification program requirements have been developed by iBiquity, which is using Intertek as a third-party, independent testing laboratory. Says Intertek Chief Exec Gregg Tiemann, "Intertek is proud to work with a leading edge technology company like iBiquity. Working with a like-minded company that is changing the face of radio is exciting and an honor."    more>>

WorldSpace eyes Web in India.
(29 April 2009)
Struggling international satcaster WorldSpace is trying to establish an online radio service in India. As is often the case on the subcontinent, the attempt is being delayed by India's Foreign Investment Promotion Board. The bankrupt WorldSpace is also attempting to convince regulators to accept its Hybrid radio service for vehicles and is awaiting a decision on whether or not digital radio broadcasts should be brought under the interconnection regulations that cover television channels.    more>>

Supremes say no to foul language!
(29 April 2009)
In a 5-to-4 decision, the United States Supreme Court has ruled that the Federal Communications Commission has the right to enforce its rule against the use of foul language on broadcast radio and television. The ruling originates from a fine levied by the FCC on Fox Television for remarks made by rock star Bono during the telecast of the 2003 Golden Globes Awards. The primary author of the decision was Justice Antonin Scalia, who wrote that the FCC "could reasonably conclude that the pervasiveness of foul language and the coarsening of public entertainment in other media such as cable, justify more stringent regulation of broadcast programs so as to give conscientious parents a relatively safe haven for their children." The decision does not apply to satellite radio.    more>>

Puerto Rico gets Sirius!
(29 April 2009)
In a sign that SiriusXM is ready to expand beyond the borders of the United States, the satcaster has filed an application to operate 20 repeaters at various locations throughout Puerto Rico. The application is only for repeaters in the 2320-2332.5 MHz band, specific to Sirius but not to XM service. This is not surprising since the Sirius satellite constllation can be expected to provide more coverage outside the continental U.S. It is thought that the move indicates that the satcaster is interested eventually in establishing service in Cuba.    more>>

It's time to get Sirius about iPhones.
(28 April 2009)
It's (almost) official. SiriusXM is releasing an iPhone application by the end of next month. Although basically tied to the auto industry, the satcaster is apparently moving into the retail market with the new app.     more>>

They want iPods!
(28 April 2009)
A recent survey by Jacobs Media finds that, aside from a basic AM/FM radio and a CD player, more new vehicle buyers want an iPod connection capability more than any other feature. The complete survey indicates that 87 percent want a radio, 82 percent want a CD player, 47 percent want an iPod port, 16 percent want satellite radio, 24 percent want GPS, 18 percent want a DVD player and 9 percent want HD Radio. Says Jacobs Media prez Fred Jacobs, "The automakers are struggling to generate sales in a challenging economic environment, but outside of Kia's new commercials for their Soul, iPod connectors are not in the sales proposition. It's a missed opportunity."    more>>

Liberty takes the shares.
(28 April 2009)
After loaning SiriusXM $530 million to bail it out of bankruptcy, John Malone's Liberty Media is opting for 1 million shares of the satcasters convertible perpetual preferred stock series B-1 and 11.5 million shares of its convertible perpetual preferred stock series B-2. The first phase of the original deal loaned SiriusXM $280 million. It bears interest at a rate of 15% and matures in December 2012. The second phase of the transaction provided an additional loan of $150 million with Liberty offering to purchase up to $100 million of the loans outstanding under XM's existing credit facilities. Liberty Media is also receiving seats on the SiriusXM board of directors proportionate to its new equity position in the company.    more>>

Serious Numbers for Sirius Investors
(27 April 2009)
SiriusXM is holding a conference call on 7 May to discuss its first quarter 2009 financial and operating results. The company is holding a conference call on that day at 8:00 AM (ET) to discuss the results and put the best possible spin on them. SiriusXM investors and those just looking for a few good laughs can access the call on the company website or via Sirius channel 126 and XM channel 90.    more>>

Eminem shows he's Sirius.
(24 April 2009)
Eminem (Marshall Bruce Mathers III) released his new single, "3 a.m." on Thursday after an interview with Angela Yee on SiriusXM's Shade 45 (Sirius 45, XM 66). The song promptly hit the web at 3:00 PM(ET) with lyrics mocking socialite Kim Kardashian. In the interview with Yee, Eminem named Lil Wayne, T.I. and Kanye West as several rappers he respects "in the game." The lyrics about Ms. Kardashian? How about "I can't quite remember when I had / That much fun with a half-pint of the Jack / My last Vic and a half / A flashlight up Kim Kardashian's ass."    more>>

Recession nabs NAB Show!
(23 April 2009)
The international recession is said to have beaten down attendance at last week's National Association of Broadcasters Show in Las Vegas. The NAB said that international attendance fell less than domestic attendance with international attendance falling by 17 percent. The reduction is said to have been expected. Observers put a good spin on the event anyway, saying that only the more serious attendees were present as many companies left their second-tier employees home. Said NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton, "We appreciate the strong support of both exhibitors and attendees who continue to make the NAB Show the most important annual event for the electronic media marketplace."    more>>

It's time to get Sirius about the NFL Draft
(23 April 2009)
In what must seem to be an event bigger than the games themselves, the NFL Draft is back...and SiriusXM will be providing complete coverage from New York's Radio City Music Hall. This Saturday, 25 April, the satcaster's NFL Radio (Sirius, XM channels 124) coverage starts at 3:00 PM(ET) with the first round. On Sunday, 26 April, coverage resumes at 10:00 AM(ET) with the first pick of the third round through Mr. Irrelevant. Team Sirius includes former Dallas Cowboys veep Gil Brandt, former NFL scout Pat Kirwan, former Bears defensive lineman Tim Ryan and Sirius NFL Radio broadcaster Adam Schein.     more>>

Sirius about Broadway
(23 April 2009)
Today's Kentertainment Report on SiriusXM features Patricia Resnick. Ms. Resnick will be discussing "9 to 5 The Musical," with Ken Kleiber on the "Frank DeCaro Show." Resnick, bookwriter of the new Broadway play as well as co-screenwriter of the film "9 to 5," will be discussing her latest Broadway project along with a new memoir she is currently writing. She's also the writer of "Straight Talk," a film featuring Ken Kleiber. The Frank DeCaro show starts today at noon (ET) on SiriusXM channel 109.    more>>

Stern's Beyonce Screech a Fake
(23 April 2009)
Imagine that! Howard Stern playing a fake recording! That's the word from Beyonce's dad Mathew Knowles, who said the recording of the singer screeching on NBC's Today Show last year wasn't real. The "King of All Media" played the track, said to be "what a cat sounds like when it's being strangled," on yeserday's Howard Stern Show on SiriusXM. Just for a few more yucks, Howard, Robin, Artie & Co. added some howling wolf sound effects.    more>>

NAVTEQ in HD
(20 April 2009)
Digital map and trafffic information proider NAVTEQ has announced the availability of dynamic content over HD Radio systems. In conjunction with the Broadcaster Traffic Consortium, NAVTEQ is now delivering traffic data to nearly 1,500 radio stations in 60 markets via HD Radio. "Delivering NAVTEQ dynamic content using HD Radio technoogy opens the door to a richer navigation experience. Today, it offers customers an innovative way to receive the broadest and most comprehensive dynamic content for delivery to drivers and pedestrians," said NAVTEQ executive vice president John MacLeod. "In conjunction with the Broadcaster Traffic Consortium's scalable and reliable HD Radio network, NAVTEQ is poised for continued expansion of dynamic content offerings and innovative business models benefiting customers and consumers."    more>>

For the Driver who Wants Everything
(17 April 2009)
Alpine has started shipping the long-awaited iXA-W404, its first touchscreen media head unit for cars. The device centers on a 4.3 inch touchscreen that allows users to navigate the media content of any dockable iPhone or iPod. HD Radio can be included as an option, as can satellite radio. It features a Bluetoot adapter, works with GPS and can even play video, thankfully only when the vehicle isn't moving. The base W404 is expected to sell for $550. HD Radio can be added for $230 and Bluetooth for $180.    more>>

XM's Animal Radio celebrates 400!
(17 April 2009)
Animal Radio, heard on America's Talk (XM 158), is celebrating its 400th show with Food Network's Chef Cat Cora, Rubes creator Leigh Rubin, actor Steven Lee of Law & Order, and best-selling author Michael Schaffer. Cora is currently working with the Humane Society of the United States. Lee is hosting HGTV's first "animal-related" show, Leader of the Pack. Schaffer is the author of "One Nation Under Dog: Adventures in the New World of Prozac-Popping Puppies, Dog-Park Politics, and Organic Pet Food." Animal Radio's special broadcast happens at noon (ET) tomorrow, 18 April and rebroadcasts on Sunday at 5:00 PM(ET).     more>>

U-Port now accepts ur iPod, ur iPhone or ur HD Radio.
(17 April 2009)
Onkyo's Universal Port, or U-Port, available with the TX-SR507 and TX-SR607 receivers, can now be used with both an iPhone or iPod and an HD Radio. Everything can be controlled with an Onkyo remote, even component video and an optional UP-HT1 HD Radio tuner. The HD Radio tuner display functions are visible on the receiver's front panel and remote. The UP-A1 should come out next month for $109. The UP-HT1 HD Radio is expected to be available in July for $159.    more>>

140 Strong and Counting
(16 April 2009)
HD Radio purveyor iBiquity has announced that it has licensed more than 140 companies to develop HD Radio receiver components and products. The last to enter the stable were A-MAX Technology, EnGIS Technologies and Harbor Light Technology. "These partners represent all the necessary facets of radio product development," says iBiquity COO Jeff Jury. "Together they reflect the global commitment to developing a growing range of HD Radio consumer electronics products."    more>>

A Sirius Summer Tour with Jimmy Buffett
(16 April 2009)
Jimmy Buffett is getting ready to kick off his Summerzcool tour tomorrow night...and it's all being spaced by SiriusXM on Radio Margaritaville (Sirius 31, XM 55). Starting at Atlanta's Lakewood Ampitheatre, the broadcasts feature pre-show parties, behind-the-scenes looks and interviews with Buffett and his Coral Reefer Band. "This year I've written quite a few new songs over the winter," says Buffett. "I wrote them to play on tour, and not necessarily for an album, but now we may put them on a record later this year. The songs cover everything from the festivals in the desert in Timbuktu, to the recession, to the optimistic outlook on the other side."    more>>

Will Livio make Sirius livid?
(16 April 2009)
There's a new device out there for listening to Internet radio. Produced by webcaster Pandora, Livio Radio is designed specifically to receive Pandora in any place where there's Wi-Fi or at least an Internet connection. It comes ready to use and even has the "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" buttons to teach Livio what songs to accept and reject, a capability familiar to anyone who has used Pandora. It sells for $150. Could this be the end for satellite radio? Not if you want to listen to it in your car.    more>>

AT&T still Crusin'
(16 April 2009)
AT&T's CruiseCast (see RUsirius.com story dated 26 March) continues to gather momentum. RaySat Broadcasting Corporation has announced that Intelsat has been contracted to deliver satellite capacity to deliver the cruisin' content. Forty two channels of satellite television are expected to be broadcast using Intelsat's Galaxy 25 satellite, located at 93 W. "We rely on Intelsat for the best combination of performance, value and affordability in satellite transmision services, which means our customers can be assured they're getting a top-quality presentation of entertainment every time they're in their cars watching the AT&T CruiseCast service," said Michael Granman, RBC Chief Operating Officer.     more>>

Sirius Hockey!
(15 April 2009)
Hockey fans rejoice! The Stanley Cup playoffs are here again and SiriusXM is providing complete coverage of every game. For XMers, the games are available on channels 204-209. Sirius subscribers with the "Best of XM" package will be able to hear the Stanley Cup games on Sirius channels 210-220. In addition to game broadcasts, fans can tune in 24/7 to NHL Home Ice (XM 204) for expert analysis and some cheap gags.    more>>

Sirius gets a raise!
(15 April 2009)
As it indicated it might do (see RUsirius.com story dated 27 February), Standard & Poor's has raised the corporate credit rating for SiriusXM to CCC+ from CCC. Said the company in a statement, "The ratings upgrade reflects our increased comfort with the company's near-term liquidity needs following the refinancing of its significant 2009 debt maturities largely to 2011, following Liberty Media Corp's recent $530 million investment in Sirius and its subsidiaries in the form of a loan and 40% equity interest." In other words, their happy.    more>>

Foxx apologizes
(15 April 2009)
In a story that appeared yesterday on RUsirius.com, it was reported that Jamie Foxx had insulted teen idol Miley Cyrus during an out-of-control rant on Sirius' Foxxhole. Now Foxx has apologized to Miley during last night's Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Said Foxx, "I so apologize to [Miley] and this is sincere. I am a comedian, and you guys know that whatever I say, I don't mean any of it. And sometimes, as comedians, as we do, we go a little bit too far."    more>>

WorldSpace Alive and Well...In India
(15 April 2009)
Forget the fact that international satcaster WorldSpace is filing for bankruptcy in the United States. It's still seeking to migrate to a new licensing regime in India. The company, in an official communique to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, said that it would divest 26 percent equity in favor of Indian equity investors within a five-year timeframe. The Indian government has offered a three-year deadline for the transfer. The company is currently providing 34 channels to the subcontinent.    more>>

Sirius welcomes Archbishop Dolan.
(15 April 2009)
As Cardinal Egan departs (see RUsirius.com story dated 1 April), Archbishop Dolan enters, and inherits a radio show. SiriusXM's Catholic Channel (Sirius159 ,XM 117) is presenting the first episode of "A Conversation with the Archbishop" at 1:00 PM(ET) tomorrow. Coverage of Dolan's installation mass as Archbishop of New York begins today at 12:30 PM(ET).     more>>

XM Canada cuts debt.
(14 April 2009)
XM Canada parent Canadian Satellite Radio says it has bought back $21.2(US) million of principal high yield debt for $4.6 (US) million. The move reduces interest costs. Says CSR chief financial officer Michael Washinushi, "This was an opportune time for us to take this action in support of that objective. As a result we have been able to reduce our long-term debt and debt servicing costs, strengthen our balance sheet and improve our overall financial future."    more>>

Is Foxx Sirius?
(14 April 2009)
Listeners to the Foxxhole (Sirius 106) may have been a little shocked by the tirade launched by Jamie Foxx at Miley Cyrus. The incident started when Cyrus pitched a fit at this year's Grammy's, saying "I'm gonna runt them," upon being denied access to Radiohead at the event. This prompted a response from Foxx, never wanting to let a crisis go to waste. Said Foxx on Sirius, "She's gonna ruin Radiohead's career? Make a sex tape and grow up. Get like Britney Spears and do some heroin. Do like Lindsay Lohan, start seeing a lesbian, and get some crack in your pipe; catch Chlamydia on a bicycle seat." There have apparently been no subsequent threats, accusations or lewd gestures.    more>>

Could reduced restrictions make Cuba Sirius?
(14 April 2009)
The easing of the U.S. relationship with Cuba could result in the expansion of the telecommunications industry, including satellite radio, to the island nation. Under the new rules, according to some officials, there is likely to be an explosion of new charter flights, gifts, money and American information...even Howard Stern. "All who embrace core democratic values long for a Cuba that respects the basic human, political and economic rights of all of its citizens," said White House press secretary Robert Gibbs. "President Obama believes the measure he has taken today will help make that goal a reality." Salsa and Sirius anyone?    more>>

Forty-two Million and Counting
(13 April 2009)
Forty-two million people are now listening to online radio at least once a week. That's the word from Arbitron and Edison Research, who indicate that the size of the online radio audience has doubled since 2005, when the number of happy hackers listening to their computers was estimated at 20 million. Included in the research include the growth of iPods and MP3 players, the impact of social networking and online video. The companies are expected to provide more details during a webinar on 16 April.    more>>

Sirius by the Book
(13 April 2009)
SiriusXM has announced that it is expanding Book Radio (Sirius 117, XM 163) to explore all sides of the book world and take listeners behind-the-scenes in the publishing business. The new programming starts this week with Pia Lindstrom Presents, a weekly interview show hosted by the movie and theater critic. Spacing mondays at 11:00 PM(ET) the program features guests from the world of books as well as film directors and producers. Book Radio is also launching its first live call-in show, Cover to Cover Live, every Tuesday at 3:00 PM(ET). Hosted by Kim Alexander and Maggie Linton, the program's upcoming guests include bestselling author David Baldacci and financial experts Jonathan Pond and Harrine Freeman.    more>>

Fantasy baseball gets Sirius.
(13 April 2009)
Fantasy baseball fans will be pleased to know that Fantasy 411 is now available every Friday night on SiriusXM's Home Plate Channel (Sirius210, XM 175). The show, which can also be accessed via MLB.com, provides insightful fantasy baseball analysis critical to the process of assembling teams and making trades during the course of the season. The show is hosted by Cory Schwartz, Corey Gottleib and Mike Siano, who notes, "Our only goal is to entertain, and while helping people win their leagues, the fact we have a blast while doing that is a bonus. We'll have guests from the world of baseball and fantasy sports so the gamut will be covered." The show is spaced every Friday at 6:00 PM(ET).    more>>

Pita Pit gets Sirius.
(13 April 2009)
Customers at Kingston, Ontario-based Pita Pit restaurants will find a pleasant surprise upon their next visit -- Sirius music. "Sirius will offer Pita Pit a simple solution for commercial-free music," says Pita Pit Director of Operations Chris Fountain. "Restaurant operators and their staff will now have more flexibility over the background music to create a better customized experience for customers."    more>>

Lucky 13 for HD Radio
(10 April 2009)
HD Radio purveyor iBiquity has announced that there are now a total of 13 vehicle brands with digital radio either currently in models or planned for future ones. The lucky thirteen are Audi, BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes, Mercury, MINI, Scion and Volvo.    more>>

Bubba does NASCAR.
(10 April 2009)
Bubba the Love Sponge, heard nationally on SiriusXM, will be the Grand Marshall for Aaron's 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series Race on 25 April. Held at Talladega Superspeedway, the 312-mile race is scheduled to be broadcast live on ABC and should be carried on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Sirius 128). "We are thrilled that Bubba will be giving the command to start the Aaron's 312," says Aaron Rents Chief Operating Officer Ken Butler. "Bubba's love of racing is very apparent and I believe his 'Bubba Army' fan base is a perfect fit for Aaron's and NASCAR."    more>>

Baseball comes to the iPhone.
(10 April 2009)
Still waiting for Major League Baseball to come to Sirius? Forget it! Throw away your satrad and get an iPhone. MLB has announced a "game changing" app for the iPhone that delivers live play-by-play broadcasts for every game. "MLB.com At Bat 2009" was developed exclusively for iPhone and iPod touch and should be available from the Apple App Store for $9.99. Play ball!    more>>

If you have a big HD Radio you don't need a BMW.
(9 April 2009)
Luxury automaker BMW has announced that it is planning to offer factory-installed HD Radio as a standard feature in its flagship 2009 Model Year 7 Series and 6 Series vehicles. "BMW continues to break new ground with HD Radio technology, reinforcing their commitment to providing a unique, enriching infotainment platform to current and future drivers," says HD Radio purveyor iBiquity COO Jeff Jury. "The decision to equip their flagship 7 Series and premium 6 Series with HD Radio systems as a standard feature illustrates their leadership role and dedication to their customers and we look forward to expanding our partnership in the near term."    more>>

Canadian Copyright Board settles royalty issue.
(9 April 2009)
The Canadian Copyright Board has issued a royalty decision for satellite radio. The decision calls for satcasters to pay 6.2% of their revenues for the use of music. "This is lower than the total equivalent rates of 7.1% set by the board, that conventional commercial radio stations pay to obtain similar licenses," says Copyright Board secretary general Claude Majeau. He noted that satellite radio operators pay 6.5% in the United States, a rate that is due to increase by 1.5% in three years.    more>>

ReachMD now on iPhone.
(9 April 2009)
What started out as a radio show on XM is now an iPhone app. ReachMD has been providing physicians with a weekly 15 minute continuing medical education (CME) class delivered by satellite radio, with listeners having the ability to take a test on their mobile phones. Now, thanks to the development of the iPhone, the entire process can take place via mobile phone. SiriusXM is no longer necessary. Says ReachMD CEO Gary Epstein, "The popularity of our iPhone app was astonishing to us. 50,000 people registered for ReachMD after downloading the application on their iPhone to begin using this CME." The comnpany is currently working on ReachMD apps for BlackBerrys and Google's Android-powered phones.     more>>

Canadian Satellite Radio sees more subscribers, bigger losses.
(9 April 2009)
Canadian Satellite Radio, parent company of XM Canada, said that it lost $20.8 million in the most recent quarter with an increase in revenue of nearly 40%. The company says it lost 43 cents per share for the quarter ended 28 February compared with a loss of 37 cents per share a year ago. They attributed the increase to a growth in subscribers. "XM Canada's business continues to grow by approximately 40% annually, despite the economic environment," says XM Canada prez Michael Moskowitz.     more>>

Twitter this!
(9 April 2009)
Sirius Howard Stern listeners can now have a look at what is going on behind the scenes by looking at the Twitter site. The "King of All Media" is now providing "online appearances" from Robin, Artie, Gary Dell'Abate, Baba Booey and the rest of the whole sick crew. All those looking for a cheap thrill and a quick yuk can check out the action at www.twitter.com/sternshow.    more>>

Land Rover goes HD!
(9 April 2009)
Land Rover is making factory-installed HD Radio avilable for its entire 2010 model year. "Land Rover customers expect their vehicles to be the most capable luxury SUVs in the world, both in terms of what they can do on the road and the experience they offer inside the cabin," says Land Rover North America veep for marketing Chris Marchland. "Certainly integrating HD Radio technology into our audio systems will add to the enjoyment our customers experience driving their Land Rovers." It may even help you forget your latest botched tennis match.    more>>

Mizrahi gets Sirius!
(8 April 2009)
Design and style icon Issac Mizrahi is launching a five-week series of live call-in shows on Martha Stewart Living Radio (Sirius 112, XM 157). Isaac Mizrahi: Tell Me Everything begins on 16 April and spaces at 7:00 PM(ET) every Thursday through 14 May. "Isaac Mizrahi's singular style and charisma are the perfect ingredients for producing great radio, and great radio is always in fashion," said Sirius President and Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein. "Sirius XM will allow Isaac the freedom to explore a variety of topics with the millions of fans he has now, and the new ones he'll soon reach on Martha Stewart Living Radio."    more>>

Can the iPod touch Sirius' market?
(8 April 2009)
Beginning this year, Apple is expected to ship a new iPhone and iPod Touch, both of which are expected to contain a new Broadcom BCM4329 chip that provides them with 802.11n wireless. This enables an enhanced Wi-Fi capability, enabling them to receive music and play it over a car stereo system. In addition, both devices may have Bluetooth audio, enabling anyone with a Bluetooth-enabled car stereo to play music from the new iPhone and the iPod Touch wirelessly. Does this mean the end of satellite radio?     more>>

Judah Friedlander gets Sirius.
(7 April 2009)
30 Rock star Judah Friedlander has been announced as the host of a new weekly, one-hour radio show every Wednesday. The show premieres on SiriusXM's Raw Dog Comedy Channel (Sirius 104, XM 150) and is expected to feature clips from recent stand-up shows as well as well as celebrity guests. Listeners will also be invited to call in with questions and comments.    more>>

William Jefferson case involves WorldSpace.
(7 April 2009)
As part of its bribery case against former Congressman William Jefferson (D-Louisiana), the Justice Department is reviewing evidence related to international satcaster WorldSpace. Apparently the company, through its CEO Noah Samara, signed a contract with Jefferson's wife, Andrea, for help in getting satellite transmission services approved in three African countries. Jefferson is then said to have used his congressional affiliation to seek meetings with officials in Western Africa, asking their support for WorldSpace and other business projects allegedly in return for bribes.     more>>

They're throwing the book at you!
(5 April 2009)
To help boost its sagging image, SiriusXM is turning to Book Radio. Starting on 14 April, Cover to Cover Live debuts on the channel with Maggie Linton and Kim Alexander. According to Linton, the show focuses on "iformation, sex, drugs, and rock and roll." Known to Kansas football icon John Riggins as "Margaret, " Linton is a personal friend of civil rights activist Julian Bond, whom she calls "J.B." Book Radio can be heard on XM channel 163.    more>>

HD Radio power boost being studied.
(3 April 2009)
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is launching yet another study on how to improve HD Radio coverage without interfering with analog FM. The study, being conducted by NPR Labs, is looking at how better to manage the HD signal. "There is a great deal of motivation on the part of everyone in the radio industry to solve this problem. I know, once the study is concluded, the desire would be to go to the FCC as quickly as possible with a widely supported industry recommendation," says an NPR spokeswoman.    more>>

Merger negotiations continue.
(3 April 2009)
Think all the discussions related to the merger between Sirius and XM are over? Think again! There are still several unresolved issues related to promises made by SiriusXM to the Federal Communications Commission to get te deal approved. Firsts of all, there is the issue of twelve channels being set aside for "Qualified Entities." These are entities defined by the FCC as being "majority-owned by persons who are African American, not of Hispanic origin, Asian or Pacific Islanders, American Indians or Alaskan Natives, or Hispanics." No such channels have, as of yet, been set aside. Then there is the issue of "public interest" channels." This issue has apparently been settled to the satisfaction of the FCC. The third issue is the availability of interoperable receivers that are capable of receiving both Sirius and XM. This promise is being fulfilled by the MiRGE, released in January. In addition to the promises made by the satcaster to the FCC there are FCC requirements that are currently being discussed. These are the mandatory inclusion of an HD Radio in each satrad and the interference between satellite radio transmissions and the Wireless Communications Services (WCS). The first requirement is being promoted by the National Association of Broadcasters. Neither requirement appears headed to a resolution anytime soon.     more>>

Radiochick the Podcaster!
(3 April 2009)
The Radiochick, Leslie Gold, is launching a podcast. Inspired by Adam Carolla (see RUsirius.com story dated 24 March), Gold is ready to take to the webwaves to expand her audience beyond SiriusXM and several terrestrial stations. "We were inspired by Adam Carolla, to be honest," says Gold. "Once we saw the success he was having reaching his traditioinal radio audience via podcast, and the freedom he was enjoying on his show, we felt we could do the same."    more>>

A Sirius Conversation with Egan
(1 April 2009)
Edward Cardinal Egan is retiring as Archbishop of New York this month and is commemorating the occasion with a special program on SiriusXM's Catholic Channel (Sirius 159, XM 117). The final program of the series "A Conversation with the Cardinal" is being spaced on 2 April, Egan's 77th birthday. "Appearing each week on The Catholic Channel for A Conversation with the Cardinal has not only been a splendid way to talk directly with people all across North America, but it has also been a great deal of fun," says Egan. "I'm grateful to the audience who have listened and asked so many interesting questions. Their comments and their support were tremendously inspiring and I will miss having the opportunity to be with them each week."     more>>

Jake & Ted get Sirius!
(1 April 2009)
To get ready for WrestleMania, The Hardcore Fantasy Show is featuring Jake "The Snake" Roberts and "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. The duo will be joining hosts Dave Golokhov and Corey Erdman to discuss the WWE's current roster, the WrestleMania 25 lineup, and share their predictions on the big event. "We are thrilled to be involved with The Hardcore Fantasy Show and these wrestling legends," says Burt the Hurt, co-owner of BSE Pro Wrestling. "Both Jake and Ted exemplify the tremendous knowledge and passion for the business that we at BSE Pro share." Hardcore Fantasy spaces Saturday at 1:00 PM(ET) on Hardcore Sports Radio (Sirius 98).    more>>