So I went to the save KLSD rally this morning. It was gratifying to see so many committed people trying to let Clear Channel know how they felt. It was good to hear Bree Walker and my friend Marjorie Cohn speak, although I found it a little disappointing that my representative, Susan Davis, did not appear to be there (but to be fair, she has been more than a little disappointing to Democrats since her vote on the war funding).
After the rally, I saw what Stacy Taylor would likely refer to as couple of "sub-suits" come down from the Clear Channel building, and talk to some members of the Progressive Damocrats Club. They had some interesting stuff to say.
Specifically, here are the numbers the sub-suits gave us that explain the possible format change for KLSD:
The station has supposedly never made a profit in its 4 years as an Air America affiliate. It brings in money, just not enough.
So how much is enough? Apparently, it takes about $5 million in ad revenue for Clear Channel management to be satisfied with station performance. CS's top market performer, KGO (Wingnut Central - the home of Roger Hedgecock) brings in about $10 million.
Currently, KLSD is bringing in about $1.4 million per year, so it needs to be bringing in about $3.6 million more. That works out to $300,000 per month, or $10,000 per day.
I have no reason to doubt the figures, as the executives appeared genuinely interested in explaining management's position. $10,000 per day more in ad revenue will keep KLSD progressive, and not turn it into the market's third sports station.
For my part, I try to support the station's advertisers, and I shall continue to do so. I will begin to ask some of my major business contacts (such as my bank) to consider advertising on KLSD. As people were saying this morning: "Liberals buy stuff." I guess we have to show the business community it's true.