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(By Ron Stone) How did independent radio stations become repeaters for national syndication? Big broadcasters started pulling local programming almost immediately after consolidation in the 1990's, replacing it with national programming they created. The reason for this was clear. They paid horrendous multiples for stations and needed to cut cost and fast.

Emmis COO Pat Walsh informed his staff that WLIB-AM is transitioning to a daily gospel, inspiration, and information programming lineup that includes syndicated programming from AURN and Reach Media. As a result, five people have been let go.

Hubbard Salt Lake's KSL Newsradio and FM100.3 teamed up to produce an original Christmas show that is a nod to old-time radio and features performances from their hosts.

iHeartMedia New York’s 106.7 LITE FM's third annual “Hope for the Holidays Radiothon” raised over $1.2 to benefit Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone. Over the past three years, “Hope for the Holidays” has raised over $2,000,000 to benefit the hospital.

Beasley Media Group Philadelphia’s Country station, 92.5 XTU, raised $253,460 during the station’s annual St. Jude’s Radiothon. Personalities broadcast live for 13 hours to raise awareness for childhood cancer research and Keith Urban, Dan + Shay, Darius Rucker and Kelsea Ballerini called into the station.

Another big haul from iHeart for the kids. iHeartMedia's WMZQ-FM in Washington, D.C’s and WPOC-FM in Baltimore’s raised over $800,000 for Country Cares for St. Jude’s during their radiothons in December 2020.

For the 12th consecutive year, The River 95.3/WZRV hosted Camping for Hunger. The event brought in food and monetary donations to combat hunger the northern Shenandoah Valley.

The Saga Illini Radio Group stations Happiness for the Holidays event has exceeded its goal. The group was hoping for 2,000 cards, listeners in the area doubled that and more.

The Broadcast Education Association has received a one-million-dollar grant to endow and establish the Diana King Memorial Awards Fund of the Charles & Lucille King Family Foundation. The fund is in memory of the founder, President and Chair, Ms. Diana King.

The Old School 500, a 45-hour year-end music special for radio is being offered by Benztown. The show will showcase and count down the 500 greatest Old School hits.