Chris Byrnes – ByrnesMedia
By now the experts say that 80% of those resolutions we all made around New Years
Eve have been broken. Chances are you’re not going to the gym more regularly, you haven’t quit smoking and you are not spending more time with friends and family. But if one of your goals was to increase your knowledge or advance your career in 2011, there is an opportunity to do that in early March at the Canadian Music Week conference (CMW) in Toronto. This is year number 29 for what some feel is the best radio conference in Canada.
Aside from being a great place to network and meet old friends, the learning opportunities this year are better than ever. CMW runs from March 9-13 and is held at The Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto. Neil Dixon and his team have put together sessions that will help broadcasters in any sized markets, so chances are you’ll come away from this conference with pages of actionable ideas. There are six panels that I think are well worth attending this year:
Ross Davies will lead a panel discussing the state of Terrestrial Radio today and where it’s heading in this new digital and social media world. (Thursday 10 – 11:30am Concert Hall)
Fred Jacobs will talk about how the mobile phenomenon has changed consumers’ listening habits. Jacobs has talked to thousands of consumers and has some amazing information about the way smart phones are both helping and hindering radio listening. (Thursday 2:30-3:30pm Salon A)
If you’re looking for promotional ideas, Peter Diemer from Media Marketing has gathered together some of the brightest minds in broadcasting, who will share their thoughts on how promotions should be executed now and in the future. (Saturday 5-6pm Salon A)
Morning shows,and PD’s who coach them, will want to attend the morning show tune-up session. Mike O’Mally and Tommy Kramer will share 50 great ideas in 50 minutes to keep your morning show sounding fresh and help create content that connects with your target audience. (Friday 10-10:50am Salon A)
Learn the finer points of creating an online personality and widening your reach across the key social media platforms as Steve Jones and his panel give you a plain and simple “how to” for setting the right tone and identity on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and Linked in. (Friday 11-Noon Salon A)
You can hear the leaders of broadcasting companies, including Paul Ski from Rogers, Rob Steel from Newcap, Christopher Grossman from Haliburton, Bill Evanov and others share their vision on radio and where they see it going in the next few years. (Friday 2:30pm -3:30pm Concert Hall)
For those who don’t overdo it too much on the Friday night, at 8:30am on Saturday CMW brings back what may be the best breakfast of your career. Kickstart your day at this round-table breakfast session that puts you face-to-face over coffee with elite radio consultants and programmers from across North America. Each table hosts a PD, GM, consultant or CRTC luminary. You’re getting them up close and personal for 20 minutes each (Saturday 9am – 11am Library)
If this is your first CMW, here are some tips that will help you. Scope out the sessions you want to attend before the conference, make sure you know where each meeting room is located. Show up early to the session, if possible, as the good sessions fill up fast. Also, sit as close to the front as possible, as sometimes the sound is not great. It’s also a good idea to stay in the hotel so you ditch the conference bag (travel light) and also grab a rest between sessions. Take lots of notes, bring lots of business cards, and know that sometimes the best learning sessions happen in the bars or restaurants after the sessions, where radio people gather to network and share ideas.
The cost is $200 for students and $745 for others. That includes the Keynote from Melissa Etheridge and Sammy Hager, but tickets to the Gala Dinner and the Crystal Awards luncheon are extra. More info at www.cmw.net.
Greg Diamond – ByrnesMedia
A client station of ByrnesMedia that I consult was recently smacked by the CBSC for playing the unedited version of Dire Straits’ “Money For Nothing”… you might have heard about it. Wherever you happened to be on the planet, as it turns out. Okay, on the off chance you are unaware of the situation, a listener in Newfoundland objected to the use of the word “faggot” in the song.
This is now the fourth time I’ve written my thoughts about this. The first three got deleted after proofreading – too caustic! “Assume the lotus position and let the emotion drain away, Greg.” I really did like my “Canadian BS Council” line, though.
I haven’t agreed with every ruling the CBSC has handed down in the past, but I truly do believe the men and women on the various panels have largely done very good work. Let’s face it, though, nobody bats 1.000.
Here’s the decision.
The Atlantic Regional Panel examined the complaint under the following provisions of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters’ (CAB) Code of Ethics and Equitable Portrayal Code:
CAB Code of Ethics, Clause 2 – Human Rights
Recognizing that every person has the right to full and equal recognition and to enjoy certain fundamental rights and freedoms, broadcasters shall ensure that their programming contains no abusive or unduly discriminatory material or comment which is based on matters of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status or physical or mental disability.
CAB Equitable Portrayal Code, Clause 2 – Human Rights
Recognizing that every person has the right to the full enjoyment of certain fundamental rights and freedoms, broadcasters shall ensure that their programming contains no abusive or unduly discriminatory material or comment which is based on matters of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status or physical or mental disability.
CAB Equitable Portrayal Code, Clause 7 – Degrading Material
Broadcasters shall avoid the airing of degrading material, whether reflected in words, sounds, images or by other means, which is based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status or physical or mental disability.
CAB Equitable Portrayal Code, Clause 9 – Language and Terminology
Broadcasters shall be sensitive to, and avoid, the usage of derogatory or inappropriate language or terminology in references to individuals or groups based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status or physical or mental disability.
[…]
b) It is understood that language and terminology evolve over time. Some language and terminology may be inappropriate when used with respect to identifiable groups on the basis of their race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status or physical or mental disability. Broadcasters shall remain vigilant with respect to the evolving appropriateness or inappropriateness of particular words and phrases, keeping in mind prevailing community standards.
CAB Equitable Portrayal Code, Clause 10 – Contextual Considerations
Broadcasts may fairly include material that would otherwise appear to breach one of the foregoing provisions in the following contextual circumstances:
a) Legitimate artistic usage: Individuals who are themselves bigoted or intolerant may be part of a fictional or non-fictional program, provided that the program is not itself abusive or unduly discriminatory.
The Panel Adjudicators read all of the correspondence and listened to the challenged broadcast of the song. The Panel concludes that CHOZ-FM breached Clause 2 of the CAB Code of Ethics, and Clauses 2 and 7 of the Equitable Portrayal Code. The Panel also found that CHOZ-FM breached Clause 9 of the Equitable Portrayal Code and that Clause 10(a) of that Code did not relieve CHOZ-FM of those breaches.
The very last sentence is the arguing point here. The panel concluded “that Clause 10(a) of that Code did not relieve CHOZ-FM of those breaches.” So, they felt the song does not portray “Individuals who are themselves bigoted or intolerant…” It should be noted that the decision was actually preceded with the lyrics of the entire song. Maybe I’m naïve, but I have a great deal of trouble understanding how anyone could not see that the context is in complete compliance with Clause 10(a). In fact, the lyrics are pretty obvious. The LGBT community is not being ridiculed; instead it’s bigots themselves that are being made fun of – I think most people have had a clear understanding of what the song has been about over the 25+ years it’s been played. As such, I feel strongly that Clause 10(a) was not applied properly in this instance and if it had, it would have also trumped the argument that the term is no longer accepted.
Before citing past decisions to validate their ruling, the point was made that “The CBSC has long established the principle that songs broadcast on the airwaves are as subject to the provisions of the CBSC-administered Codes as any other broadcast content.” Fair enough. I’m curious, though, as to why every example given was for spoken word content that was aired either minimally or just once. No previous musical precedent was given. The problem here, as I see it, is that to say both a song and a comedy skit or morning show bit are apples is, at best, taking an easy way out, or, at worst, just wrong. By not taking into consideration the number of times the song was played in its unedited version and they, without complaint, is to disregard the will of the whole at the behest of the one.
The biggest sticking point I’ve always had with the CBSC revolves around the ‘single-complaint-dictates’ mandate. I appreciate that laws are created largely on such a basis, but don’t you think it’s time we put a little realism back into our self-regulating body and reexamine at what point the CBSC is actually called to action? How about a percentage of cume? As it stands now, the single complaint accounted for around .00002% of OZ-FM’s central market circulation. That just doesn’t strike me as fair. What if we instituted a .1% threshold? In this case, it would have taken just under 50 complaints to call the CBSC to action. Whatever figure is derived at, the point is that we should at least discuss a more reasonable trigger point. If people really want something changed, then historically they band together to do so. It’s called a petition. Heck, from time to time it’s even called an election.
The other problem I have with the CBSC at present is the lack of an appeal mechanism. I was also slightly taken aback when Ronald Cohen, the CBSC’s National Chair replied that an appeals process would be “cumbersome”. So, if I’m to understand that correctly, the reason a station can’t cry foul is because it’s too much work? It seems to me that if a decision is made that could potentially impact the whole of society, then it’s only fair that the same governing body should be able to uphold its ruling through further examination. If, by chance, a mistake has been made, don’t we owe to everybody to reexamine it and if necessary make corrections? As of right now, that’s just not a possibility – too bad.
I was also bewildered by Mr. Cohen’s response to the mounting criticism of the ruling. When asked about it, he responded “The number of complaints is irrelevant…” Now, let’s backtrack a bit. It took only one person to create this turmoil, but the CBSC continues to refuse to reopen the file no matter how many people come out against it. That’s a naked double standard, plain and simple and if that’s not reason enough to review their processes, then I don’t know what is.
If a complaint needs to be formally lodged before action is taken, then I’m thinking I’ll send one in. “Dear Mr. CBSC Member. I recently heard the edited version of Dire Straits’ “Money For Nothing” on my local radio station, CXXX-FM. I take great offense to this rendering of what I consider to be a timeless classic. Therefore, I would like to lodge a complaint based on discrimination towards artistic expression. Songwriters are being unduly preyed upon by the Canadian radio industry and these egregious acts must be forced to cease immediately. Yours humbly, Greg Diamond.”
Okay, I’m getting slightly acerbic again, so let’s bring this to a close.
I firmly believe that should the CBSC fail to take another look at this decision and at least consider the views of those countless individuals that do not agree, then an atmosphere of arrogance has settled upon it and in doing so leaves it in a state of disassociation and disrepute. A review is not only warranted, but is simply the right thing to do.
HOLD THE PRESSES!
The CRTC issued the following release on the morning of Friday, January 21st:
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission today wrote to the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council (CBSC) asking it to review its determination that the unedited version of the song “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits was inappropriate for Canadian radio. On January 12, 2011, the CBSC’s Atlantic Regional Panel found that the use of a derogatory word in the song breached broadcast codes.
The CBSC’s decision has elicited a strong public reaction and created uncertainty for private radio stations across the country. The Commission has received over 250 letters from Canadians, most of which questioned the decision. These letters have been forwarded to the CBSC.
Given the exceptional nature of this situation, the Commission has asked the CBSC to appoint a panel with a national composition to review the complaints regarding the Dire Straits’ song as well as its original decision.
The Commission expects that the council will seek further comments from the public on the matter. Furthermore, the CBSC should take into consideration all relevant factors, including:
- the context of the particular wording in the song’s theme and intended message
- the age and origin of the song and the performance date
- the prominence of the contested word and the use of that word over time, and
I didn’t see that one coming, but the Commission has received so much feedback on this that they really had no choice but to reopen things for the CBSC.
Here’s hoping they get it right the second time.
- the length of time and frequency that it has been playing on the radio.
Feb 1-28 “Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month”: An opportunity to return stolen shopping carts, milk crates, bread trays and ice cream baskets to supermarkets and avoid the increased food prices that these thefts cause. Call Anthony A. Dinolfo 815-463-9136.
Feb 1-28 “Weddings Month”: Wedding season is getting into high gear, and your station can generate awareness and revenue. Call the Assn of Bridal Consultants 860-355-7000, email info@bridalassn.com. Web www.bridalassn.com
Feb 1-28 “International Boost Self-Esteem Month”: Focus on the importance of nurturing and cultivating self-esteem to beat the winter blahs. Call Valla Dana Fotiades 863-875-0759. email artreuman@verizon.net.
Feb 1-28 “Plant the Seeds of Greatness Month”: If you are unhappy with your career, use these next 28 days to put to use your own unique prosperity and plant the seeds for your new career. Call Lorrie Walters Marsiglio 630-584-9368.
Feb 1-28 “Time Management Month”: Time for renewing those best-laid plans; breaking open those new calendars that have yet to be opened, and reevaluating and reprioritizing harried, out-of-balance lives – making specific commitments to balance them. Call Sylvia Henderson 301-260-1538. email sylvia@springboardtraining.com. Web: www.springboardtraining.com.
Feb 1-28 “Spunky Old Broads Month”: A celebration for all women over 50 who are interested in living a regret-free life. Call Gayle Carson 305-534-8846, email Gayle@spunkyoldbroad.com. See www.spunkyoldbroad.com.
Feb 1 “Junior Achievement Month”: Junior Achievement students in Canada participate in experiential learning programs to discover free enterprise, understand business and economics and develop their entrepreneurial and leadership skills. See www.jacan.org.
Feb 1 “Working Naked Day”: A day for all those who are working from home “naked” – stripped of the resources that millions take for granted in the traditional corporate workplace.
Feb 2 “Groundhog Day” If the groundhog comes out of his hole and sees his shadow, we’re in for another 6 weeks of winter. Call Woodstock, the town where Bill Murray filmed Groundhog Day 815-338-2436 or e-mail chamber@stans.com. Also check out Wiarton Willie – Canada’s leading weather prognosticator Phone:(519) 534-1400 or e-mail admin@wiarton-willie.org.
Feb 2 “Groundhog Job Shadow Day”: 12th annual. Students spend part of the day in the workplace “shadowing” an employee as he or she goes through a normal day on the job. Call 1-800-373-3174 for a kit. Email info@jobshadow.org. See www.jobshadow.org.
Feb 3 “Chinese New Year”: Traditional Chinese lunar year 4708 begins at sunset on the day of the second new moon following winter solstice. Begins the year of the Rabbit.
Feb 4-13 “Ontario Winter Carnival Bon Soo”: Sault Ste. Marie, ON. One of Canada’s largest winter carnivals. Call Donna Gregg 866-899-1607, email mrbonsoo@bonsoo.on.ca or see www.bonsoo.on.ca.
Feb 4-20 “Winterlude”: Ottawa, ON. Annual celebration of Canadian winter. Call 613-239-5000 or 800-465-1867. Web www.capcan.ca/winterlude.
Feb 5-11 “Dump your Significant Jerk Week”: With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, there’s no time to waste. If you’re in a loser relationship, it’s time to cut the cord. So call Marcus P. Meleton for ideas at 949-413-3052, email mm@sharkbaitpress.com. Web www.sharkbaitpress.com.
Feb 7 “Super Bowl XLV”: Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX. Call 212-450-2000. Web: www.nfl.com.
Feb 8 “Safer Internet Day”: To promote safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially among children. See www.saferinternet.org.
Feb 8 “New Mexico: Extraterrestrial Culture Day”: A day to celebrate and honour all past, present and future extraterrestrial visitors in ways to enhance relationships among all citizens of the cosmos, known and unknown. Annually the second Thursday of February in New Mexico.
Feb 8 “Laugh and Get Rich Day”: When people laugh they are more effective, stay in the same job longer and tend to remember things better, according to Rick Segel. Phone: 781-272-9995 or e-mail rick@ricksegel.com
Feb 12 “Darwin Day”: International celebration of science and humanity. Call the Institute for Humanist Studies 518-432-7820. email info@darwinday.org. see www.humaniststudies.org.
Feb 13 “Man Day”: A day for celebration by friends, family and associates of the men of the world. Annually, the Sunday before Valentine’s Day. Call C. Daniel Rhodes 205-908-6781, email rhodan@charter.net.
Feb 13-19 “International Flirting Week”: Recognizing the role it plays in the lives of singles seeking a mate, couples looking to sustain their love and those simply exchanging a playful glance with a stranger, acquaintance or colleague. Call Robin Newman 516-773-0911, email robin@lovecoach.com. Web www.lovecoach.com.
Feb 14 “Valentine’s Day”: The oldest “Valentine” in existence was made in the 1400’s and is in the British Museum. Paper Valentines were exchanged in Europe where they were given in place of Valentine gifts. St Valentine was a priest and physician who was beaten and beheaded on the Flaminian Way in Rome on this day in 269AD.
Feb 21-25 “Read Me Week”: National and local celebrities and other volunteers read in classrooms wearing readable clothing with school-appropriate messages. For info call 615-834-7323. See www.bookem-kids.org.
Feb 22 “World Thinking Day/Founders Day”: Birth date of both Lord and Lady Baden-Powell, founders of Boy Scouts and Girl Guides. Don’t be surprised to see members of these organizations in uniform today at school and work.
Feb 24 “Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day”: The engineering community is asked to reach more than one million girls and encourage them to pursue the fields that lead to engineering careers. Call Natl Engineers Week Headquarters 703-684-2852. email eweek@nspe.org. web www.eweek.org/site/news/eweek/girlsday.shtml.
Feb 26 “Open That Bottle Night”: 12th annual. A night to finally drink that bottle of wine that you’ve been saving for a special occasion that never seems to come. Email Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher of the Wall Street Journal at wine@wsj.com.