Madison WI Progressive Talk Station SAVED!

The Mic 92.1 WXXM-FM in Madison, Wisconsin will not be changing formats on January first after all. Owner Clear Channel Communications, yes those folksy people in San Antone, announced that due to listener protest the progressive talk format will continue.

The Mic had made good numbers and developed a strong core audience, but Clear Channel claimed that a switch to the more advertiser-friendly Fox Sports Radio would help lagging ad billings. Among the actions taken by listeners was to hustle up pledges from local advertisers to support the progressive format.

This is not the first progressive station saved by listeners. It CAN be done, despite continuing dire pronouncements to the contrary from largely conservative radio industry columnists and bloggers.

Associated Press:

Dec. 21, 2006, 4:48PM
Clear Channel Keeps Air America Station

By RYAN J. FOLEY Associated Press Writer
© 2006 The Associated Press

MADISON, Wis. — Clear Channel Radio says it will keep its Air America affiliate on the air instead of switching the progressive talk format to sports on Jan. 1.

Citing the overwhelming negative reaction to the planned change, the nation's no. 1 operator of radio stations said it would keep The Mic 92.1 FM on the air as a progressive talk station.

...

"We are overwhelmed by the recent outpouring of support for our progressive talk format from the public, some of our community leaders and some dedicated local advertisers," said Jeff Tyler, Clear Channel's market manager in Madison. "We deeply appreciate the local business leaders who are pledging their advertising support _ they are playing an enormous role in helping to keep progressive talk on the air in our community."