Broadcasting (Oct 1931-Dec 1932)

Denial of Booster To CBS Explained Ultimate Quota Increase Held Obstacle by Commission REASONS for its denial, by three to two vote, of the CBS application for an experimental booster station in Washington to be linked with WABC, New York key, were set forth by the Federal Radio Commission in its formal statement of facts made public Dec. 4. The statement represented the views of Chairman Saltzman, Vice Chairman Sykes and Commissioner Starbuck, Commissioners Robinson and Lafount having dissented. The Commission held that granting of the application would not increase the quotas for either New York or the District of Columbia, since radio facilities employed in experimental use are not so chargeable. It said, however, that should the proposed operation demonstrate the practicability of employing synchronized boosters, it would be necessary either to discontinue the operation, under the quota regulations, or to authorize the operation regularly. The grounds for decision were enumerated by the Commission as follows: "1. Washington, D. C, and surrounding area, now receive good radio broadcasting service from a number of existing stations. The programs now received include many of the same chain programs which are proposed to be offered by the applicant in this same area, and there does not appear to be a need in that area for additional radio service. "2. The operation of the proposed station would deprive those persons residing m an area of 3,000 square miles near Washington of the service now received from WABC during evening hours. Although this present service from WABC in that area is not entirely satisfactory, the signal »IZ8 S"bjf^ t0 fadinS' 14 does not appear m this record that more satisfactory service is rendered throughout this area by any other existing radio broadcasting stations. "3 Although the authorization requested is for experimental purposes it appears from this record that the proposed project is contemplated by the applicant as an experiment only insofar as it would demonstrate the practicability of the intended synchronous operation of two broadcasting stations. The evidence adduced m this record clearly indicates that the entire plan is regarded by the applicant as a commercial enterprise and business expedient. The granting of an experimental authorization for the construction of a radio station to be operated as a purely commercial venture would be inconsistent with the proper application of the standard of public interest, convenience and/or necessity. "4. In the event the proposed project were authorized and the operation proved practical it would be necessary to authorize any subsequent operation upon a regular basis as distinguished from an experimental basis, and such procedure would involve an increase in the radio broadcasting facilities of either the District of Columbia (in the event the main studio of the proposed station were located therein) or the state of New York. In either case the granting of such authority would violate the provisions of Section 9 of the Radio Act of 1927, as amended by the act approved March 28, 1928, in that the state of New York or the District of Columbia would be assigned more than Burning Anything? "THIS IS KQV, in Pittsburgh. Are you burning anything?" Thus does Fullerton T. McClough, KQV announcer, greet his audience in the "Blue Chasers" program every morning at 11:15. At ever}7 opportunity during the one-hour program, he reiterates the statement. The idea was born from a mass of mail suggesting that the radio would be a good medium to remind housewives of this frequent lapse. Another radio station has its announcers make the frequent statement: "Think of your neighbors. Turn down the set. The other fellow will appreciate your kindness." their respective quotas of radio broadcasting facilities. No showing whatever is made in this record which would permit of an order requiring the forfeiture of any existing radio facilities. "5. Station WABC, New York City, is now licensed for the use of 25 kw. regular and 25 kw. experimental power. Should the requested facilities be considered as an addition to WABC the granting of this application on an experimental basis would increase the assigned experimental power of that station by 250 watts. If granted on a regular basis the assigned regular power of WABC would be increased by 250 watts. In either case a violation of General Order 42 would result in that WABC would then be assigned in excess of 25 kw. regular and 25 kw. experimental power." Radio Commission Budget is $431,360 AN APPROPRIATION of $431,360 for the Federal Radio Commission to defray its estimated operating expenses for the fiscal year 1933, which begins next July 1, was recommended by President Hoover in his annual budget message to Congress, made public Dec. 9. While the figure shows a decrease of $34,020 compared with the current fiscal appropriation, it actually is an increase of $11,165 over that appropriation because of the rent item for Commission offices. The President explained that the 1932 appropriation of $465,380 included an item of $45,185 for rental of quarters. This, however, is omitted in the 1933 estimate and is included in the estimate for appropriations for Public Buildings and Public Parks of the national capital, which has taken over the handling of rents for independent establishments. The increased appropriation of $11,165 would enable the Commission to add one engineer and four clerks to its personnel. For the Radio Division of the Department of Commerce, an estimate of $508,500 is made by the President, representing a reduction of $48,200 compared with the appropriation for the current fiscal year. "Non-recurring equipment items in 1932 amounting to $17,000 and reduced needs for field personnel have permitted a reduction of $48,200 for the Radio Division," the President reported. At Your Service to Combine Perfect Acoustics with Beautiful Interiors MANY stations have found the USG Sound Control Service especially helpful to them in correcting faulty acoustics and in insulating against disturbing noises. The beautiful new studio of WHK at Cleveland is typical. Individual studios are isolated by the USG System of Sound Insulation and walls and ceilings are treated with Acoustone Tile. Without obligation, one of our Sound Control Engineers will gladly consult with you. He will tell you what treatment is needed in your studio — the installation of one of our many materials for absorbing sound or the insulation of floors, walls, ceilings, doors or machinery. Some of the many other stations where our service has solved acoustical problems follow: WBRC, WNAC, WBEN, WDOD, KYW, WJKS, WBBM, WMAQ, WENR, NBC (Chicago and New York), WCFL, WHFC, WCHI, KMBC, WIBA, WCCO, WMCA, KQV, KWK, KMOX, KLX, WBZ, WWVA, WTAG, WGAO. For an appointment with a USG Engineer, or for UsS further information please address the y^-"v United States Gypsum Company, Dept. {^J B-12, 300 W. Adams St., Chicago. United States Gypsum Co. Sound Control Service KMBC 'First in the Heart of America" Now Becomes a Key Station of the Columbia Network Adding— Prestige Listener Interest Value Midland Broadcasting Co. Pickwick Hotel Kansas City,Mo. Page 28 BROADCASTING • December 15, 1931