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2009 in Radio: 2 Stations go Spanish, 1 goes Top 40--What Next?
Indie 103.1 went Spanish. 97.1 FM went Top 40. And last week Michael Schneider broke the news that "Movin 93.9" KMVN-FM will also flip to a Spanish format. Back in 2006 when 93.9 was KZLA, the country's biggest radio station, the owner decided to change it "to target young women with a new rhythmic format" and with Rick Dees manning the morning show, notes Schneider. "The switch, however, was a big bust. Listeners rejected the station -- which eventually dropped current songs and focused on more of an adult contemporary approach." Now that failed and come April 14th, Grupo Radio Centro will take control. As Pop & Hiss blogger Autumn Brown says, "the mausoleum for L.A. radio stations is getting awfully crowded this year."
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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