NAB CEO Gordon Smith told Radio Ink on Monday that broadcasting’s importance is only magnified during moments of national tragedy. He saluted both radio and TV stations across the country trying to make sense of the “unspeakable massacre” that took place in Orlando.
On Monday, Cox Media Group brought some of its most popular Orlando air talent together for a unique roundtable discussion about the incident. The company both broadcast and live streamed the 2-hour event in which the hosts discussed what took place in their community, and took calls from all their listeners. The panel discussion, called “Orlando Terror Attacks. Our City Reacts,” was simulcast on all six Cox stations in the market.
The panel included Joe Kelley from WDBO as host and moderator, AJ and Ashley from K92.3 WWKA, the Obie and Lil Shawn Morning Show from Power 95.3 WPYO, Monica May – Star 94.5 WCFB, Denise Ryan – 98.9 WMMO, and Brian Kilmeade, host of Fox & Friends on Fox News Channel and host of Kilmeade & Friends on Fox News Radio.
CBS was also taking care of its listeners following the terror attack. The company brought in all of its morning shows, from all stations, to work together. Chad Pitt for AMP was on the air by 9 a.m. with Dana Taylor from Mix 105.1. As people called to ask how they could help, they were directed to One Blood to donate blood, which was a big need. CBS Radio also worked with the city and police to make sure they were getting the most up-to-date information out. Also on Monday, CBS Radio set up a blood drive that started at 8 a.m. in the station parking lot, and the stations are working with the city on a candlelight vigil which will take place in the next couple days.