Over 6,000 WGTS 91.9 listeners got together for a trip down memory lane at the Third Day 30th Anniversary Tour. Fan favorite Zach Williams opened the show with some of his biggest hits. Then, Third Day spent close to two hours singing their most popular songs from the past three decades. It’s the first time in more than a decade that the original members of the band played together.

“The crowd almost never sat down. People of all ages were singing along with every word of every song,” said WGTS director of promotions and community engagement Ken Scribner.

“I don’t say this every night, but this might be my favorite stop on tour,” said Third Day lead singer Mac Powell.

In addition to the concert, listeners sponsored over 250 children through the ministry of World Vision, which helped sponsor the show.

The post WGTS 91.9 Welcomes Sold-Out Third Day Concert first appeared on CMB.

The post WGTS 91.9 Welcomes Sold-Out Third Day Concert appeared first on CMB.

Since joining Pillar Media in 2020, Stockman has guided programming initiatives that strengthened the organization’s mission of encouraging people into a growing relationship with Jesus through media.

“Matt’s leadership and expertise have made a lasting impact on our organization,” Executive Director Art Garza said. “While we never enjoy losing great talent, we’ve long known this entrepreneurial path was something he felt called toward. We’re grateful for his contributions and excited for his new consulting venture. Matt will always be part of our family, and we know this won’t be the last chapter we share together.”

Stockman is stepping away to focus full-time on expanding his consulting work serving nonprofit and Christian radio organizations nationwide.

“I’ve loved every moment of my time with Pillar Media,” Stockman said. “At every level, this team has been an absolute dream to work with, and I thank God for the privilege it has been to serve alongside each of them. I believe God has opened the door for this next chapter, and I look forward to using my experience and gifts to help other organizations make an impact for the Kingdom.”

Pillar Media will begin a search for its next chief programming officer. In the meantime, the organization remains focused on delivering encouraging, Christ-centered media that serves communities across five local markets, reaching over 1 million people a week.

To learn more about the opportunity and apply, visit pillarmedia.com.

The post Pillar Media Announces Leadership Transition as Chief Programming Officer Matt Stockman Pursues New Opportunity first appeared on CMB.

The post Pillar Media Announces Leadership Transition as Chief Programming Officer Matt Stockman Pursues New Opportunity appeared first on CMB.

Ronning has served FLR for 21 years, creating meaningful soundtracks for many listeners. “Family Life Radio has been my dream job,” Ronning said. “I have been given the opportunity of a lifetime which has allowed me to thrive in what God has called me to do. I am verry grateful and honored to have worked alongside so many talented people for the cause of Christ.”

Having strong leadership and passion for Christian music, Ronning significantly influenced the station’s sound and direction. “Bill has been a trusted colleague and dear friend for more than 30 years,” said Adam Bidell, chief broadcast officer for FLR. “His dedication has made a lasting impact, and he will be greatly missed. As he retires, we pray God blesses him and his family with joy and purpose in this next season.”

While he was a radio, television and film major at California State University, Northridge, Ronning’s broadcast career began in 1981 at Drake-Chenault Enterprises, a pioneering radio syndication company. After a brief stint at WRYO in Crystal River, Florida, he joined KAMB in Merced, California, where he spent 21 formative years rising from part-time on-air talent to morning show co-host and ultimately program director, honing his expertise and passion for music programming.

Ronning has long been part of the heart of Family Life Radio, both on and off the air. “Bill will be sorely missed, not only by Family Life Radio, but by the CCM industry,” said Chuck Tyler, program director for FLR. “We’ll miss him, but we know his Kingdom work will continue for many years to come.”

As he looks forward to his next chapter, Ronning reflected on the decision to retire. “After 44 years of programming Christian music and watching it mature into what it is today, it is with mixed feelings that I will be leaving it behind. At the same time, I have peace that I am following God’s direction. At this stage of life, it is time for me to spend more time with my wife Diane, our three kids and seven grandkids.”

Ronning’s last day with FLR will be August 28, 2026.

The post Bill Ronning to Retire from Family Life Radio first appeared on CMB.

The post Bill Ronning to Retire from Family Life Radio appeared first on CMB.

Under the terms of the agreement, WaterStone will acquire all outstanding shares of Salem Media common stock for $1.00 per share, representing approximately a 250% premium over Salem’s recent trading price.

Edward Atsinger III, Salem co-founder and board member, said finding the right long-term steward for the company was a priority. “For the last ten years the Atsinger and Epperson families have been looking for a successor that would continue to carry the torch of delivering quality Christian and conservative media into the next generation and beyond. When we met with WaterStone, some 24 months ago, we believed it was a divine appointment. WaterStone is deeply aligned with the vision we had when our families founded this company.”

The agreement follows a period of significant momentum for Salem across both broadcast and digital media. While much of the radio industry faced declining advertising revenue of -3.4% in the first quarter, according to Miller Kaplan, Salem posted positive local radio growth of +2.8%, excluding the impact of recently sold stations, outperforming broader industry trends by more than six percentage points through its strong programming, trusted talent, and longstanding relationships with ministries, advertisers, and audiences nationwide.

Salem has also continued expanding its national radio, streaming, and podcast platforms with one of the strongest lineups in conservative media, including voices such as Scott Jennings, Larry O’Connor, Alex Marlow, and Lara Trump, alongside many of the most influential personalities in Christian broadcasting like Greg Laurie, Sean McDowell, Becket Cook, and Kirby Kelly.

David Santrella, Chief Executive Officer of Salem Media, said the partnership was built around long-term alignment and a shared commitment to Salem’s mission. “WaterStone understands who we are and why Salem has mattered for over 50 years,” Santrella said. “This partnership will accelerate our ability to expand the reach of our mission for years to come.”

Over the last 18 months, Salem and WaterStone have worked together on several strategic initiatives tied to the company’s long-term growth and organizational vision. WaterStone’s previous preferred stock investments in Salem gave them 49.5% voting interest in the company.

Today, Salem remains one of the largest Christian and conservative multimedia companies in America, reaching millions of listeners, readers, viewers, and podcast consumers each month through its national radio network, streaming platforms, digital media brands, and publishing platforms.

Richard von Gnechten, Chairman of Salem Media’s Board of Directors and President of WaterStone, said the partnership reflects years of shared vision and alignment between the organizations. “This is about building on what makes Salem unique,” von Gnechten said. “Salem has spent decades earning the trust of listeners, ministries, advertisers, and audiences by staying true to its mission. WaterStone believes deeply in that mission and in the people behind it. This partnership gives Salem additional strength and long-term stability while creating new opportunities to expand its reach for the future – which is why we are making this investment.”

The transaction was unanimously approved by Salem’s Board of Directors and is expected to close in August 2026, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.

The post Salem Media to Be Acquired by WaterStone first appeared on CMB.

The post Salem Media to Be Acquired by WaterStone appeared first on CMB.

The annual event celebrates achievements in Christian music, honoring artists, songs, and performances across multiple categories. The awards also recognize standout contributions in film, television, books, sports, and digital media.

The awards show will take place live at the OPRY House on May 24 and will air exclusively on Trinity Broadcasting Network on May 29 at 7:30 p.m. ET. An encore presentation will air at 10 p.m. ET the same evening and again on June 5.

See the full list of nominees

The post 13th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Nominees Announced first appeared on CMB.

The post 13th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards Nominees Announced appeared first on CMB.

From signal expansions and station moves to fundraising efforts and team development, Sean has played a key role in shaping KLRC’s ministry and outreach. A celebration was held that highlighted the strong relationships and partnerships that have supported the journey along the way, including longtime colleague Mark Michael’s 20 years of service.

The post Sean Sawatzky Recognized for 30 Years of Service at KLRC first appeared on CMB.

The post Sean Sawatzky Recognized for 30 Years of Service at KLRC appeared first on CMB.

Through this partnership, HMG leveraged its multi-platform reach to connect its audience with the “One Week. One Nation. One Book.” movement. The initiative celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States by reconnecting the country with its spiritual foundations.

Partnership Highlights:

• National Awareness: Hope Media Group drove awareness across its radio networks and digital platforms, including KSBJ, WayFM, Vida Unida, and Worship 24/7, encouraging listeners to join the continuous 12-hour-a-day readings.
• Media Collaboration: HMG joined other media partners, including Great American Pureflix, which provided the national livestream for the event.
• Influential Participation: The reading featured notable figures such as actresses Candace Cameron Bure and Patricia Heaton, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Pastor Jack Graham contributing to the cover-to-cover marathon. Hope Media Group’s CEO Joe Paulo and his wife, Kelly, also participated in the reading.

Christians Engaged founder and President Bunni Pounds shared, “Hope Media Group was a critical partner as we accelerated the Word of God across our nation. With over 3 million video streams for America Reads the Bible, their generosity and giving of airtime to market this national moment cannot be underestimated. We are so thankful!”

Joe Paulo added, “What a significant way to commemorate our nation’s 250th birthday. We were honored to come alongside Christians Engaged for this powerful reminder – so vividly on display from our nation’s capital – that God’s Word is enduring, trustworthy, and declares hope for our future.”

The post Hope Media Group Partners with Christians Engaged to Support America Reads the Bible first appeared on CMB.

The post Hope Media Group Partners with Christians Engaged to Support America Reads the Bible appeared first on CMB.

Life 107.1 (KNWI – Des Moines) has promoted Mercedes Rich to Assistant Program Director, effective April 27. Mercedes will continue to host afternoons on Life 107.1.

Mercedes joined Life 107.1 in March 2025 as Creative Services Director, quickly becoming an integral part of the team. In her new role, she will take on expanded responsibilities on the programming side of the station.

“Mercedes is smart, hungry to learn, and passionate about Christian radio and its listeners,” said Taylor Hohulin, Life 107.1 Program Director. “She’s been a key part of this team from day one, and I’m excited to watch her step into this new role!”

“I can’t even begin to explain what a whirlwind this last year has been,” said Mercedes. “This team and this work are such a gift from God. I’m so excited to be working on the Programming side of things with Taylor. Can’t wait to see what God has in store as I am able to serve the listeners in this way.”

With Mercedes’s promotion, Life 107.1 is now seeking a Creative Services Director and On-Air Host. More information about this opening and the application process can be found at jobs.unwsp.edu.

Life 107.1 is a part of the Northwestern Media network of University of Northwestern – St. Paul.

The post Mercedes Rich Promoted to Assistant Program Director at Life 107.1 first appeared on CMB.

The post Mercedes Rich Promoted to Assistant Program Director at Life 107.1 appeared first on CMB.

Troy Kriechbaum, President and CEO of Encouragement Media Group, shared, “Several years ago, God put it on our heart to expand Fuzión to Dallas/Fort Worth to share the love of Jesus with the growing number of Hispanics. DFW is one of the most strategic markets in the country, serving as a major hub of Spanish media and spiritual influence, with the power to shape culture across the nation. We give glory to God for this incredible opportunity to share His love in the ‘heart language’ of Spanish through Fuzión in DFW!”

Brenda Águila, Vice President of Spanish Ministries for EMG, emphasized, “Our desire is to bring the hope of the Gospel, unite the Hispanic community across DFW and North Texas, and point hearts to Jesus Christ. Through heartfelt Christian music in Spanish coupled with inspiration from the Bible, Fuzión is a warm, welcoming home for Hispanics who need encouragement as we spread God’s blessings even further and unite more hearts in His love.”

With this addition of 94.5 KZMJ to the network, Fuzión will broadcast on 18 radio signals across the Southwest, with DFW as its flagship. Fuzión can also be heard on signals in Las Vegas, Southern California, Albuquerque and East Texas. Listeners will soon enjoy Fuzión on 94.5 in the DFW/North Texas area, and online at mifuzion.com, on the “Fuzion Radio” app, and through social media on Facebook and Instagram – @mifuzionradio.

Greg Guy of Tideline Partners served as the exclusive broker on this transaction representing EMG.

Fuzión is a ministry of Encouragement Media Group, celebrating 42 years of ministry, existing to glorify God by encouraging people, connecting our community and pointing people to Jesus Christ. EMG is a nationally-recognized leader in Christian media, winning a combined 12 Station of the Year awards from Christian Music Broadcasters and National Religious Broadcasters. The EMG platforms include Fuzión – featuring Spanish Christian music, KVNE (CCM), Lift Worship (worship), The Well (Bible teaching), Modo Vida (Spanish Bible teaching) and Evergreen (Christmas).

The post Fuzión Radio Brings the First Full-Power Spanish Christian Station to DFW first appeared on CMB.

The post Fuzión Radio Brings the First Full-Power Spanish Christian Station to DFW appeared first on CMB.

“Data tells you who’s listening. Audience intelligence tells you who matters and where to find more heavy users. DMR/Interactive has spent decades helping clients do exactly that. As our investments in AI-driven tools continue to expand, we’re able to deliver even greater impact,” said Bannon. “I’m honored to step into this role and looking forward to the road ahead.”

Bannon joined DMR/Interactive in December of 2019 as Vice President, Marketing Strategy and has helped shape the company’s strategic philosophy and client-focused approach during a period of significant change in media consumption, audience behavior and platform fragmentation. His leadership has helped clients navigate emerging technologies and new opportunities for engagement across channels.

Before joining DMR/Interactive, Bannon worked in sales for Cumulus Media. He also spent more than a decade as a program director and on-air talent for stations across the Midwest, including WGFB-FM in Rockford, IL and WXXB-FM in Lafayette, IN, now owned by Mid-West Family Broadcasting and Saga Communications, respectively. That combination of programming, sales and marketing experience gives Bannon a rare perspective on audience behavior, brand strategy and the forces reshaping the modern media landscape.

“Tony has been instrumental in helping us stay ahead of where the industry is going, while never losing sight of what matters most: delivering meaningful results for our clients,” said Andrew Curran, President and CEO of DMR/Interactive. “We love to promote from within. Tony brings strategic vision, deep industry knowledge and a genuine passion for innovation that make him the right leader for this next stage of growth.”

As Executive Vice President, Strategy and Growth, Bannon will focus on advancing DMR/Interactive’s long-term strategic priorities, identifying new business opportunities and helping clients grow audience and revenue through smart, integrated marketing.

“We have an outstanding team, strong client partnerships and a clear sense of purpose,” Bannon added.

Reach Tony at tbannon@dmrinteractive.com or 513-403-3066.

A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Bannon is based at DMR/Interactive’s offices in Covington, KY. He lives in Cincinnati with his wife and two daughters.

The post DMR/Interactive Elevates Tony Bannon to Executive Vice President, Strategy and Growth first appeared on CMB.

The post DMR/Interactive Elevates Tony Bannon to Executive Vice President, Strategy and Growth appeared first on CMB.