Last month, CNN came to a settlement in a defamation trial with security contractor Zachary Young. It appears as if that was a win for the network.
Young had sued the network for claiming he was part of a black market helping refugees flee Afghanistan. After deliberations, the two sides came to an agreement to dismiss the case in exchange for the settlement.
According to the jury foreperson, they were prepared to award Young much more than that should it have been determined by the jury.
“The message the jury wanted to send was to not only CNN but to all media that the general public is fed up with fake news and partial truths,” Katy Svitenko told Variety. “Reporting must be unbiased, true, and complete.”
The eight-day high-profile trial rose in prominence throughout its duration as deposition made by the network’s stars and its high-level executives became public.
Five of the six jurors agreed from the beginning of the trial that CNN was liable for damages related to defamation. $5 million was awarded in compensatory damages from the juror before deciding on punitive damages. Before deliberating on punitive damages, CNN and Young had announced they had reached a settlement.
Svitenko said the juror was prepared to award millions more than Young settled for.
“However, my personal opinion is that it could have been up to $100 million,” she said. “It had to be high enough to actually punish CNN and to get the attention of other media outlets as well.”
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James Howard is iHeartMedia Senior Regional Vice President and Program Director for 103.5 KISS FM and Rock 95.5, Chicago.
Howard was honored by industry executives and programmers, placing 8th in Barrett Media’s Top 20 CHR/Top 40 Program Directors and 6th in the Top 20 Rock Program Directors.
Howard told me, “That was a nice acknowledgment. Honestly, it’s a job that doesn’t necessarily come with a lot of accolades, praise, or looks. Candidly, when something like this happens, I do take a second and appreciate it and think about all the really talented people around me who make something like this happen. So, it was neat.”
Earlier this week, we featured “The Fred Show,” which placed number 5 in The Top 20 CHR/Top 40 Shows. The show is based out of 103.5 KISS FM, and Howard is the show’s coach and Program Director. Howard has tremendous enthusiasm when it comes to talking about the show.
“I’m excited. That show is awesome. And we’re really fired up for the future with it. It’s something that we’ve been building for a long time. And I remember a couple of years ago Fred and I made a pitch to the hierarchy at iHeart and said, ‘Hey, we think we’ve got something here that’s going to be a great future option.’”
And we wanted to go bigger than just Chicago. We’ve got a team of people who feel like they represent all of America. I think some parts of the country don’t feel that way when they get media from certain locations.”
Howard got bitten by the radio bug at a young age while riding out a hurricane.
“I think the thing that got me interested in wanting to be in radio is I went through Hurricane Andrew in 1992 with my family. And the house halfway blew away while we were in it. The walls were there, but everything else was gone, like three-quarters of it.”
“It was crazy. But I remember during the process, we were hiding in a bathroom, and we had a radio on—WIOD 610. And they weren’t telling us barometer readings or wind speed—they were just telling us, hey, everything’s going to be okay. And I’ll never forget it. It was something that made us feel like it was going to be OK. I thought it would be worth it if I could do something like that as a career.”
I asked Howard if the lack of evening and overnight shifts would make it more difficult to develop the next Elvis, Seacrest, or Fred.
“What I would love for people to do is try it in spots where you can begin. There are mom-and-pop gigs out there, and there are certainly opportunities in places in some markets, including in the Midwest, like Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Traverse City, Michigan.”
“There are opportunities and those cities as real deals, but there are just not enough. So, really, the short answer is to learn how to connect with people using digital technology, podcasting, etc. You know, dive into music, just get experience however you can. For us, it’s getting people in the door through promotions. It’s the only way to smuggle them in. We’re literally smuggling in new people and then seeing what they’re good at and getting them to do different things.”
Getting people in the door can pay dividends.
“The perfect example is I had a night personality that I hired for my rock station here, WCHI. Her name is Maria Palmer, and I put her at night knowing that she full well had more talent than what she was doing at night.”
“I told her if you want to grow, you’re going to have to treat this show like a morning show. You have put in the time and effort and go through the pain points and all that kind of stuff and figure this out. And she did. For four years, she put the time and effort into her show and planned everything perfectly and with limited resources.”
“Now she’s in Morning Drive on the rock station four years later. And that night slot was the chance for her to figure it out. We still have enough of those spots. That’s a perfect place to make some mistakes. Right?”
Howard’s coaching technique looks at the bigger picture while offering his advice.
“When working with complete pros like this, and I remember this even working with Elliott Segal in D.C., I wasn’t going to teach Elliott how to do radio. I wasn’t going to teach him how to have connections with an audience.”
“And the same thing with Fred and the team they’re pros. For me, it’s just giving them information and different ideas just infusing different thought processes. Asking them to listen to the product or watch what they’re doing on socials differently.”
“I see it from a little bit of a distance. What do you think? And then, of course, I bring in other folks who are even less close to it than I am. And then they can give some opinions. So I’m really just a conduit of information.”
“I think about it being not dissimilar to a baseball manager. I can’t throw a 97-mile-an-hour fastball, but I can watch them do it. And I can tell when their mechanics are right and when it’s wrong. I can see it. OK, you’re over-rotating, and that’s why that thing’s doing it. Hey, try this.”
Howard enjoys the diversity of his cluster.
“That’s the other really great about this cluster. I have such a diverse group of people and brand offerings. Where I can have something as powerful as an Inspiration 1390 Gospel station and a rock station that gives away chainsaws on Friday, and I can oversee all of that with a straight face most of the time.”
“I have an awesome group of people. That’s what I think my biggest win moving here was. I didn’t know how great I was going to have it in terms of people I work with.”
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ESPN host Stephen A. Smith has been floated as a possible Democratic presidential candidate in 2028. He told 77 WABC host Sid Rosenberg there’s no chance that happens.
During an appearance on the 77 WABC morning show, Smith was asked about his prospects for joining what could potentially be a crowded field of Democratic hopefuls vying for the nation’s top office.
“It’d be crazy if I did it,” said Smith. “I’ve got a good life. Why the hell would I tarnish my life by getting into politics? I mean, first of all, it certainly can’t pay me the same. Secondly, I would need to curry favor with congressmen, senators, donors, everything like that. I’d be begging, most of the time, for support.
“Why do I need that when I can remain a pundit? I love what I do,” he continued. “I love talking politics as well as talking sports and what have you, please don’t get me wrong. But I gotta admit, it is flattering. It’s really, really funny. I don’t think for one second think I’m qualified or anything like that.”
Stephen A. Smith added that just because he isn’t going to enter the political arena doesn’t mean he believes he wouldn’t be good at it.
“If I really, really engaged and really stuck my nose in it and went after it — I’ll tell you this much — what I will say to you is that any of the people that they had in the polls for the Democratic Party at this moment in time, I believe I would beat them all.”
Sid Rosenberg agreed with that encapsulation, saying “I am with you 1000%.”
Some polls have shown Smith as garnering more than 2% of support from prospective 2028 voters.
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Two beloved NASCAR figures are teaming up to talk racing for SiriusXM. Seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson and ESPN’s Marty Smith will co-host Never Settle, a new NASCAR podcast that will debut on Feb. 12, just in time for Daytona. Johnson returns to NASCAR in the 84 car, a Toyota Camry XSE representing Legacy Motor Club.
The guys will discuss the headline stories in NASCAR, and will share anecdotes and perspectives gleaned from Jimmie’s many successful years competing on the track. Marty and Jimmie are promised to talk lifestyle matters, music, and more on the show as well, as only two lifelong friends can.
“It’s crazy that this podcast has finally come to life,” said Johnson. “Marty and I have known each other for 20 plus years and he is one of the all-time best storytellers out there. He’s also hilarious and the two of us have had a lot of fun together throughout the years. We’re excited to work with SiriusXM and we can’t wait to share some entertaining stories with listeners and have some great guests in their 2.0 version of life on the show with us. It’s going to be wild.”
For the uninitiated, Smith was originally hiredat ESPN to cover NASCAR when the network still had broadcasting rights to the sport. Once NASCAR left the network in 2014, Smith transitioned to college sports, where he’s found a new home. However, he still has a spot in his heart for talking racing, especially when it comes alongside a good friend.
“Jimmie and I have had so many great conversations through the years about life on the track and off it, and we’re thrilled to team up with SiriusXM to create a podcast that will invite listeners into those conversations with us,” said Smith. “From racing to fatherhood to business and more, we’re excited to get into it all, and hopefully we’ll enlighten and inspire some people along the way.”
Never Settle premieres Feb. 12 and will release every week on all major podcast platforms. New episodes will debut every Wednesday and the show will also air Wednesdays at 2 pm ET on the SiriusXM NASCAR Radio channel.
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In the modern world of sports gaming, the Fliff Sportsbook app stands out as a unique social betting platform that combines entertainment with the thrill of wagering. Rather than follow the traditional sportsbook model, Fliff offers an engaging play-for-fun experience, utilizing both “Fliff Coins” and “Fliff Cash” to redefine the way players interact with sports betting. This dual currency system allows users to participate without financial risk, providing a legal alternative in markets that restrict conventional betting.
Fliff’s emphasis on user experience is evident through its mobile app, which facilitates seamless navigation, interactive social features, and a comprehensive range of sports and betting markets, as highlighted in the review of Fliff Sportsbook. It’s this blend of legal compliance, user enjoyment, and innovative engagement strategies that sets Fliff apart in the competitive arena of online sports gaming.
A comprehensive review of Fliff Sportsbook’s virtual currency system
At the heart of the review of Fliff Sportsbook is its unique approach to virtual currency. The system distinguishes between “Fliff Coins”, which are used for purely recreational activities, and “Fliff Cash”, which can be redeemed for real prizes. This innovative model allows users to engage with the platform in a risk-free environment, fostering a community of players who are motivated by the social experience rather than financial gain. It’s a model that provides flexibility in how users participate, whether through earning via promotions or purchasing for immediate play.
Photo provided by BazoomGroup
Legal availability and compliance of Fliff Sportsbook
The legal landscape of sports betting often presents barriers, but Fliff operates under sweepstakes rules, making it accessible in a broader range of jurisdictions. This legality allows Fliff to offer real cash prizes in states where traditional sports betting is restricted. By adhering to social gaming regulations, Fliff provides a legitimate and attractive option for sports enthusiasts in these areas. The platform’s compliance is a testament to its commitment to providing both entertaining and legally sound betting options. For more information on the legal landscape of sports betting, you can visit the Sports Betting – NCAA.org.
User experience and app design of Fliff Sportsbook
Fliff Sportsbook’s mobile app is a standout feature, praised for its user-friendly design and ease of use. The app’s intuitive interface enhances the user experience, making it straightforward to navigate between sports markets and betting options. Unlike traditional desktop sportsbooks, Fliff’s app encourages social interaction through features like community leaderboards and sharing options, thereby fostering a lively and engaging atmosphere. Although some users prefer desktop access, the app’s superior functionality and community-centric design provide a compelling digital experience.
Exploring Fliff Sportsbook’s bonuses and promotions
Fliff’s commitment to enhancing user engagement is further reflected in its bonuses and promotional offerings. New users are welcomed with enticing bonuses that match initial purchases, while ongoing promotions and loyalty rewards, such as the XP system and referral bonuses, keep the audience engaged. These offers not only support user retention but also encourage frequent interaction with the platform, thereby creating a dynamic and rewarding environment for all participants.
Sports and betting markets available on Fliff Sportsbook
Fliff provides bettors with access to a variety of sports and betting markets, focusing mainly on major leagues. While some platforms offer a broader range, Fliff concentrates on delivering quality rather than quantity, ensuring that each sport covered includes a robust selection of betting options. This selection ensures that users have the opportunity to make diverse and strategic bets, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
ESPN made history last night, as over 40 of its African-American employees worked together to broadcast the company’s midweek NBA matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and Atlanta Hawks. Coverage was led by an all-Black staff in all key positions, including production, operations, transmission, social media, graphics, stats, commentators, and more.
Mark Jones and Richard Jefferson called the game with Lisa Salters providing sideline coverage. It was produced by the duo Rodney Vaughn and Paul Ervin. The former shared his excitement for the evening.
“I’m thrilled that this broadcast can inspire young people dreaming of a career in sports broadcasting while also bringing together so many talented industry professionals,” said Vaughn. “It feels like we are creating Black history in real time.”
According to Sports Business Journal, ESPN started developing the plan last spring, with executives saying the conversations developed organically. ESPN also partnered with Clark Atlanta University to give students of the university’s Mass Media program a behind-the-scenes look at ESPN’s mobile units on-site.
“The NBA is always a sport where 70-80% of the participants are African-American, at the table, calling the games on the sidelines, has always been a really good presence,” Vaughn added. “You’re going to see a lot of that history come to life.”
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Everyone knows The Joe Rogan Experience is a podcasting juggernaut. That’s evidenced by the latest Edison Research data that shows its finish in 2024.
The podcast from Joe Rogan unsurprisingly topped the list of the top 50 podcasts of the 2024 fourth quarter released by Edison Research.
Meanwhile, other shows from the news genre made appearances as well. Dateline NBC (6th), Pod Save America (10th), The Ben Shapiro Show (14th), The Tucker Carlson Show (17th), and The Dan Bongino Show (18th) all finished in the top 20.
Up First from NPR finished 24th, while The Megyn Kelly Show was 27th. The Ramsey Show finished 33rd, while 37th place belonged to the Shawn Ryan Show. Podcasts from Candace Owens (45th), Matt Walsh (46th) and Charlie Kirk (49th) rounded out those representing the news/talk format.
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Triton Digital has announced a new partnership with identity management and data collaboration platform Optable for user identity technology systems.
With the new partnership, premium audio publishers will be able to safeguard, administer, control, and govern their first-party identity data.
“User identity activation technology is revolutionizing the audio landscape, creating new ways for brands to reach audiences and publishers to enhance the listener experience,” said Triton Digital President and CEO John Rosso. “Triton Digital has always strived to create new opportunities for our partners through robust data. This integration further highlights our commitment to expanding and enhancing our ecosystem of solutions as publisher and advertiser needs evolve. The initial results are a positive sign of how this technology can change the landscape and see this as a first step toward additional improvements down the road.”
“Integrating Optable’s ID Switchboard with Triton’s Audio SSP gives iHeartMedia and other audio publishers an easy way to use their first-party data to activate identity solutions like UID 2.0 securely and seamlessly, all in one place,” added Bosko Milekic, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder of Optable. “This collaboration is a practical step forward for audio publishers, helping them securely scale their inventory’s addressability across different demand partners.”
The two companies first collaborated to bring user identity privacy framework for iHeartMedia. After the collaboration, iHeart saw a 26% increase in average daily spending from advertisers.
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The Fox 103.9 WRSR, Flint, MI, has named Roy Moore Program Director. A market veteran of 20 years, Moore returns to the station after taking time away to pursue other opportunities.
On Facebook, Moore posted, “I could not be happier to be returning to 103.9 The Fox. It’s home! It’s Rock ‘N’ Roll. Great listeners, fantastic customers, and advertisers make it special. To be back in a position to help this community in so many ways is truly satisfying.”
General Manager Bill Bailey added, “The experience Roy brings back to the market with his Classic Rock credentials is second to none. Roy is a passionate broadcaster who is dedicated to helping local businesses connect with our audience and fully leverage the opportunities in local radio. Welcome HOME, Roy.”
Moore will also host PM Drive beginning February 10
When choosing a state to call home, Ohio and Pennsylvania often come up in conversations about affordability, livability, and opportunities. Both states have their unique charms, strengths, and challenges.
In this article, we’ll break down key factors that can help you decide between Ohio and Pennsylvania. Whether it’s cost of living, job opportunities, or quality of life, this guide has you covered. If you’re planning a move, consider enlisting the help of a moving company to make your transition seamless.
Which State Offers Better Affordability?
Affordability is a major consideration for anyone deciding where to live. Ohio is widely regarded as one of the most affordable states in the U.S. Housing prices are significantly lower than the national average, making homeownership a realistic goal for many residents. Utility costs and groceries in Ohio are also comparatively inexpensive.
Pennsylvania, while slightly more expensive than Ohio, remains affordable, especially in rural areas and smaller towns. However, larger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh can drive up the cost of living. Pennsylvania also has a higher average property tax rate than Ohio, which might be a deciding factor for homeowners.
Housing
-Ohio: Median home price ~$211,000; affordable rents.
-Pennsylvania: Median home price ~$258,000; urban areas are pricier.
If affordability is your top priority, Ohio has a slight edge over Pennsylvania.
Job Opportunities and Economic Growth
Both Ohio and Pennsylvania boast diverse economies with opportunities across various sectors. Ohio’s economy is heavily rooted in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Cities like Columbus and Cleveland are seeing growth in tech and healthcare industries, offering promising prospects for professionals.
Pennsylvania, on the other hand, has a mix of traditional and modern industries. Philadelphia is a hub for finance, education, and healthcare, while Pittsburgh is known for its tech and robotics scene. Pennsylvania also benefits from its proximity to major East Coast markets, providing a competitive edge in certain industries.
Both states have robust job markets, but the choice depends on your field of expertise. Pennsylvania may appeal to those seeking opportunities in tech or finance, while Ohio offers steady growth in manufacturing and healthcare.
Education
For families and students, the quality of education can be a deciding factor. Ohio boasts several well-regarded public school systems and is home to prestigious universities like Ohio State University and Case Western Reserve University.
Pennsylvania offers a similar advantage with top-notch institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, and Penn State University. Public schools in Pennsylvania also tend to rank higher nationally compared to Ohio.
If access to elite educational institutions is important, Pennsylvania might have the upper hand.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in both Ohio and Pennsylvania. Ohio offers picturesque landscapes with its state parks, Lake Erie shoreline, and the scenic Hocking Hills region. It’s a haven for hiking, fishing, and camping.
Pennsylvania, known for its rolling hills and dense forests, has equally stunning outdoor options. The Pocono Mountains, Allegheny National Forest, and numerous historic trails offer endless opportunities for exploration. Pennsylvania’s natural beauty often feels more expansive, thanks to its larger size.
For sheer diversity of outdoor activities, Pennsylvania takes the lead. However, Ohio’s affordability makes it a great choice for budget-conscious nature lovers.
Photo Credit: Canva
Taxes
Taxes can make a big difference in your overall financial well-being. Ohio has a relatively low income tax rate compared to Pennsylvania. However, Pennsylvania boasts a flat income tax rate of 3.07%, which is one of the lowest in the country. Property taxes, as mentioned earlier, are generally higher in Pennsylvania.
Sales taxes in both states are comparable, though Ohio’s local sales tax rates can vary widely depending on the county.
Ohio’s lower property taxes make it more appealing for homeowners, but Pennsylvania’s flat income tax rate is hard to beat for high earners.
Cultural and Entertainment Options
For those who enjoy vibrant cultural scenes, both states offer plenty of options. Ohio’s cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati are known for their museums, theaters, and music scenes. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a must-visit for music lovers.
Pennsylvania, home to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, boasts a rich cultural history. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and numerous art galleries provide a mix of history and contemporary entertainment. Pennsylvania also has a thriving food scene, especially in cities like Philadelphia.
Pennsylvania’s deep historical roots and dynamic city life give it a slight edge over Ohio in cultural offerings.
Transportation and Accessibility
Ohio’s central location makes it an excellent base for road trips and travel. Major highways connect its cities, and it’s a manageable drive to other Midwestern hubs like Chicago and Detroit. Public transportation is decent in cities like Columbus but limited in rural areas.
Pennsylvania, being on the East Coast, offers better access to major cities like New York and Washington, D.C. Public transportation systems in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are more developed than in most Ohio cities.
If accessibility to East Coast cities is a priority, Pennsylvania is the clear winner.
Community and Lifestyle
Ohioans are known for their friendliness and strong sense of community, particularly in smaller towns. Life in Ohio often feels laid-back and centered around family.
Pennsylvania offers a more diverse lifestyle depending on where you live. Urban areas provide a fast-paced environment, while rural towns offer a quieter, community-focused lifestyle.
Both states have their charm, but Ohio is often seen as more family-oriented, while Pennsylvania offers greater lifestyle variety.
Weather and Climate
The climates in Ohio and Pennsylvania are similar, with cold winters and warm summers. However, Pennsylvania’s geography creates microclimates, meaning weather can vary significantly depending on the region. For instance, Philadelphia experiences milder winters than Pittsburgh.
Ohio’s flat terrain means winters can feel harsher, with more wind and snow. Summers, however, are pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Pennsylvania’s diverse geography makes its climate slightly more appealing, particularly in regions with milder winters.
Which State is Better to Live In?
Choosing between Ohio and Pennsylvania ultimately depends on your priorities. If affordability, a strong sense of community, and steady job opportunities appeal to you, Ohio might be the better choice.
On the other hand, if you value access to East Coast cities, cultural diversity, and a slightly more dynamic lifestyle, Pennsylvania could be your ideal home.
No matter which state you choose, relocating can be a daunting task. Hiring a professional moving company ensures a smooth transition and lets you focus on settling into your new home.
