Alpha Broadcasting has flipped Rock 101.1 KUFO Portland, OR to a simulcast of sister News/Talk 750 KXL.
KUFO has felt the pinch in recent years from Clear Channel Classic Rock “105.9 The Brew” KFBW, Entercom Classic Rock 92.3 KGON and Modern Rock 94.7 KNRK and sister Sports “95.5 The Game” KXTG. Out with the shift is morning host Kidd Chris. His co-host Marconi Bologna was let go a few weeks ago.
“Today begins a new chapter in Portland radio as we bring the news and information heard on KXL to the FM dial at 101.1,†commented Alpha Broadcasting President/COO Bob Proffitt. “The future of news is on FM and we are excited to be the first to make the move. Alpha Broadcasting is committed to improving KXL’s reach and solidifying our position as the live and local leader in Portland radio, both on-air and online. With our robust news department, solid programming line-up and 85 years of heritage, we now offer our exclusive content on the powerful signal at 101.1 FM, exposing a whole new audience to the station and providing information to them as they’ve never heard it before…with the great fidelity of the FM signal. We have seen this trend growing across the country and are very excited to bring this incredible station to so many more radio listeners of Portland and Southwest Washington.â€
KUFO’s website features the following farewell message:
R.I.P 101 KUFO 12/29/89 – 3/15/11
We just wanted to take a moment to thank you, our devoted KUFO listeners, for 21 rockin’ years. You have listened and supported KUFO through 14 Rockfests, a variety of DJs, a couple of owners and countless events, large and small. We have appreciated your input over the years and continue to do so today.
KUFO is yet another of the former CBS owned Howard Stern affiliates unable to survive in the long-run following Stern’s departure in 2006.
According to FMQB: “As part of yesterday’s flip of KUFO/Portland to a News/Talk simulcast, the entire air staff has reportedly exited: morning team of Kidd Chris and Porkchop, PD/midday host Ditch, afternoon drive host Ricker and nighttimer Yukon.”