TheBuzz
TheBuzz
Sometimes fallout
comes firstAs often happens prior to the release of radio or TV ratings, personnel changes have been announced or are being planned.
Veteran broadcaster and local entertainer Kimo Kahoano has been, as Cisco Systems would put it, subjected to "involuntarily attrition" after a four-year stint at New Wave Broadcasting LP.
He most recently served as morning host on 99.5 KORL FM with its soft rock island-style format, but started with the company when its station at 102.7 FM was converted to a country music format from classic soul. It is now called "Da Bomb," and plays urban-leaning contemporary hits.
"Radio used to be about bringing local music and local talent to the forefront," Kahoano said. "Now it's all about 'We'll play these songs because they're on our survey because they rate high.'"
Kahoano said he was told by station management "we're going to get rid of the local music because we feel that's the way to be successful," he said. "If they feel I'm unnecessary because I'm too local, that's a good one."
He did not have a contract and was not offered a severance package, he said.
The layoff was announced Friday, before yesterday's release of Arbitron ratings for the Honolulu market.
"I think everything happens for a reason in life," Kahoano said. "I'm trying to move forward to see what the next step is."
For now, he still serves as master of ceremonies for the Pleasant Hawaiian Hula Show in Waikiki, will host the half-time show at the Hula Bowl and does convention and other special shows with long-time TV co-host Carole Kai.
Kahoano's pre-New Wave resume includes on-air gigs at KCCN AM, KSSK AM, KCCN FM and KRTR FM.
Station officials were not available, but the Web site at korl995.com indicates the new morning guy is Joe Hart, followed by Laurie Ann Salomon, Program Director Mahlon Moore in the afternoons and "Jordan" in the evenings. There's also a photo of "Jamie" who does weekends, and "Otto Mation," and its program schedule as well.
New voice sought
Further up the dial at 105.9 KAHA FM, "Hawaii's Lava Rock" has taken out a free classified ad on at least one radio industry Web site.It's headlined "Hawaii for Free," and indicates the station is looking for a new voice to join its ranks. The ad continues, "If you're ready to kick some a-- and not get paid ..." then provides the mailing address for Program Director Marc Young. He does afternoon drive on the station, and was on the air, unable to take calls.
Erika Engle is a reporter with the Star-Bulletin.
Call 529-4302, fax 529-4750 or write to Erika Engle,
Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., No. 7-210,
Honolulu, HI 96813. She can also be reached
at: eengle@starbulletin.com