CFMJ-AM

Radio Richmond Hill Ltd. was granted a licence by the CBC Board of Governors on June 21. The company was owned by John Graham, Stewart Coxford and a few other investors. Graham would be president of the company and manager of the station. Stephen Appleby would be the first program director.

Station CJRH went on the air the very day it was licensed, with the official launch on Canada’s birthday – July 1. CJRH broadcast on a frequency of 1300 kHz and had a power of 500 watts. The station only operated during daytime hours – sunrise to sunset. CJRH – with the “RH” representing Richmond Hill – was an independent station, having no network affiliation.

Studios and offices were located in what was once Richmond Hill’s Masonic Temple at 50 Yonge Street North. In addition to CJRH, the building now housed Mainprize Drug Store (on the first floor), doctor’s and other offices. The transmitting facilities were situated on Concession 1, Vaughan Township – Elgin Mills Sideroad at Yonge Street, near Richmond Hill. The station used a single tower and operated with a non-directional signal. The antenna was an old 1050 CHUM tower, modified to a height of 126 feet (130 feet in overall height).
Stan Larke hosted “Buckskin Bandwagon” over CJRH. 

CJRH applied for a change of frequency from 1300 to 1310 kHz and for a power increase from 500 watts (day only) to 1,000 watts day and 250 watts at night. The CBC Board of Governors deferred the application until it could be heard in conjunction with applications from Kitchener and Hamilton which would conflict. These applications were deferred following the board’s December 1957 meeting. 

In November, the Department of Transport denied CJRH’s request to change call letters to CJAY. DOT was concerned about confusion between CJAY and CKEY. 

CJRH received federal approval to move from 1300 to 1310 kHz and to change power from 500 watts daytime-only, to 1,000 watts day and 250 watts at night.

CJRH changed frequency from 1300 kHz to 1310 kHz and power increased from 250 watts (daytime only) to 1,000 watts during the day and 250 watts at night (full-time) on March 19. The station operated with different day and night directional patterns. The same transmitter site was used but the station now had two towers. 

Bob Crabbe joined the CJRH newsroom from CFCF in Montreal. Dan Doctor left CJRH (news director) for CKGM in Montreal. 

CJRH changed its call sign to CFGM on October 2. The “GM” in the calls: Greater Metro.

On October 12, power increased to 10,000 watts day and 2,500 watts night, using a single directional pattern. Four towers were now used at the site located about four miles southeast of Richmond Hill in Markham Township. 

Bob Crabbe left for CKEY. CHUM’s overnight man Bob Laine left that station for CFGM in March. He didn’t stay long, returning to CHUM overnights in May.

CFGM’s program line-up: Stu Kenney (6-10:30), Dave Donaldson (10:30-3), Jerry Bright (3-7), Continental Melodies (7-?).

CFGM became a full-time country and western music station on July 1 (CFGM Country Music 1310). The station had aired a variety of programming including ethnic shows. With the change to country, ethnic programming was cut back from five hours to two hours a day and those shows were totally gone from the schedule by November 1. CFGM was now Canada’s first full-time country music radio station.

John O. Graham applied to the Board of Broadcast Governors for an FM licence. The application was denied because he wanted a religious format. The government had a long standing policy against full-time religious broadcasting in Canada. CFGM’s application was opposed by CHFI-AM-FM. Among CHFI’s concerns – Radio Richmond Hill Ltd. had already reduced substantially the attention and service rendered by it on AM to Richmond Hill, Newmarket and other centres in York County…the area it was licensed to serve. CHFI was also concerned about the “paid religion” programming proposal.

CFGM was an independent station with no network affiliation.

John O. Graham was president of Radio Richmond Hill Ltd. while Stuart H. Coxford was manager of CFGM. Ken Foss was news and sports director while Brian Sawyer was chief engineer. Gordon Symons was program and promotions manager. 

Program Line-Up: Al Fisher (6-10:30), Don Daynard (10:30-2), Memory Music (2-4), Bob Bell (4-7), Wayne Moore (7-9:30), Country Spotlight (9:30-10), Country Music (10-12) and King Perry (12-6). Ken Foss was among those in the news department. 

John Travers Coleman joined CFGM as retail sales manager in October.

Radio Richmond Hill Ltd. became CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. on May 17. The company continued to be owned by John O. Graham, Stewart H. Coxford, Lois M. Graham and Elizabeth R. Coxford. 

Programming: Bob Livingstone (6-10), Don Daynard (10-2:30), Gary McColman (2:30-7), Joe Pyne (talk show, 7-8), Bob Livingstone (8-?). Other names: Ken Hodge and Al Fisher. 

John Graham and Stewart Coxford were now respectively president and vice president.

Dave Wright was named general manager. He had worked in the past at CFCF Montreal. He said CFGM would continue on as basically a country & western station, with expansion ahead in new techniques of news, public affairs and audience participation. CFGM was expecting to increase power to 50,000 watts next year.

CFGM received approval to increase power to 50,000 watts with the promise of at least one item of York County in each hourly newscast plus minimum of five minutes daily of York County news and an increase in public service programs to 7 1/2 hours per week with minimum of 2 hours devoted specifically to York County.

CFGM was given federal approval to move its transmitting plant to what would be Mississauga. The station would also increase power to 50,000 watts – day and night. CFGM would continue using the 1310 frequency but would have a severely limited and restricted signal, especially at night. It would be better than what existed with only 10,000 watts though. 

CFGM was on the verge of 50,000 watt operation. The target date had been moved up to January 1, 1969.

The station’s format was classified as contemporary country.

J. Dave Wright was general manager.

The increase in power to 50,000 watts took place August 26. CFGM was now using eleven 255 foot (overall height) towers from an antenna site located between Erin Mills and Streetsville, at the intersection of Base Line Road and Creditview Drive, Toronto Township, Peel County. The station broadcast with different day and night directional antenna patterns.

Ken Foss was news director. CFGM had a news staff of four, along with five stringers. There was one mobile unit to cover traffic and news. CFGM was the originator of Highway 400 air traffic reporting but now used the mobile unit and police reports to cover traffic. 

Ad: Now 50,000 watts – CFGM – The People Mover.

Peter May joined the news department. John O. Graham was president of CFGM.

On December 14, approval was given for the transfer of 10,856 common and 180 preferred shares of CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. from John Graham and Stewart Coxford to Allan Slaight Ltd. (Slaight Broadcasting Ltd.).

Slaight Broadcasting Ltd. (Allan Slaight) and partners took ownership of CFGM on January 13. 

Dan Ryan joined from CKFH.

Line-up: Frank Proctor (6-10), Bill Anderson (10-1), Jim Weir (1-4), music director Dave Johnson handled afternoon drive, Dan Ryan (was Gary Hart at CKFH) (7-11). Program director John Hart hosted “Phone Forum” from 11-midnight and voice-tracked the overnight show. Bill Anderson was new to the staff. He had been with CJCB in Sydney, N.S. 

On May 22, Slaight Broadcasting Ltd. and IWC Communications Ltd. were given federal approval to merge. Slaight controlled CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. and Radio CFOX Inc. IWC controlled Sarnia Broadcasting (1964) Ltd. The merger took place July 1. Slaight bought into IWC in 1970. CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. continued as a subsidiary of the new IWC Communications Ltd. 

Among the on-air names: Peter May (news) and Frank Proctor.

Allan Slaight purchased a 45% interest in the Global Television Network. 

John Loweth joined the announce staff. Other names: Bill Anderson (mid-days), Peter May (news) and Frank Proctor.

Program line-up: Jim Marshall (6-10), Dan Ryan (10-2), Dave Johnson (2-6), Stan Campbell (6-10), Ron Knight (talk, 10-?). Other names: Bob Barker and Frank Proctor. Bill Anderson had left for CFRB. Peter May hired J. Richard Miller from Guelph. He had no radio experience but wanted to be on the air. Greg Slaight then hired Miller to do mornings as Big Jim Marshall.

CFGM’s address changed from 50 Yonge Street North to 10254 Yonge Street. The station remained in the same building. This was simply a change in street numbering.

In a continuing effort to improve its signal, CFGM applied for a change of frequency, moving from 1310 to 1320 kHz. The CRTC approved this application. CFGM would continue to use the Mississauga transmitter site and a full-time power of 50,000 watts. The station’s licence was renewed at the same time as the frequency change application, and CFGM was told to strengthen local service to Richmond Hill and York County (Region).

Announcers included Bob MacAdorey (6-10 a.m.), Dan Ryan (10-2) and Dave Johnson (2-6 p.m.). Ron Knight hosted the late-night talk show. Frank Proctor took over the morning show. Newscasters included Richard Scott, and Kim Hesketh (sports).

CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. opened FM station CILQ-FM at Toronto.

Big Jim Marshall joined CFGM from CKLW in Windsor.

The application by Selkirk Holdings Ltd. to purchase three radio stations (CFGM Richmond Hill, CILQ-FM Toronto and CHOK Sarnia) owned by IWC Communications Ltd. was denied by the CRTC. The Commission noted that Selkirk was already one of the country’s largest broadcasting companies and said the sale by IWC of CILQ-FM, which went on the air only last May, would be premature. IWC had earlier received approval to sell CFOX in Montreal and its stake in the Global Television Network.

In February, CFGM moved to 1320 kHz. Different day and night directional patterns were used and power was 50,000 watts. The thirteen tower site was located at Creditview Road in Mississauga – the existing 1310 site). During the day, CFGM used four 400 foot towers. At night, nine 250 foot towers were used. The station invested over a million dollars in this project.

While extensively modifying its 50 kw plant at Mississauga to change from 1310 kHz to 1320 kHz, CFGM also built a new facility for CFTJ Cambridge so that station could move from 1320 kHz to 960 kHz. Research and development for the change of facilities took some five years, and involved three stations. Actual construction took two years, including the work for CFTJ. The logistical challenges in rebuilding the array and changing virtually all of the tower locations while keeping CFGM operating normally were considerable according to chief engineer Bruce Carnegie. He reported the results were most worthwhile, with coverage from the Woodstock-London area in the west to Belleville-Kingston in the east.

Allan Slaight purchased CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. (CFGM and CILQ-FM) from IWC Communications Ltd. (Slaight was an IWC shareholder). IWC Communications was renamed Radio IWC Ltd. following the sale of Slaight’s interest in the Global Television Network and IWC’s cable interests.

Mike McMan was now the morning man (6-10). He replaced Frank Proctor who left for CKTB St. Catharines. Proctor had been with CFGM for eight years. Newscasters included Peter May, Thomas O’Hare and John Elston.

Brian Barker joined CFGM from CKFH 1430.

On May 23, approval was granted for the transfer of 42.5% of Radio IWC Ltd. from Allpack Products ltd. and J. J. MacBean to J. Allan Slaight on behalf of a company to be incorporated (would become Slaight Communications Inc.). Before this approval, Slaight owned 13.8% of IWC. Slaight/IWC continued to own CFGM Broadcasting Ltd. but sold CHOK-AM in Sarnia.

On-air line-up: Mike McMan (6-10), Dan Ryan (10-2), Dave Johnson (2-6), and Stan Campbell (6-10). Ron Knight came on at 10 p.m. with his talk show. Weekend announcers included Big Jim Marshall, John Loweth, Gord Ambrose, Bill Kelly, Peter Darrell, Tom Russell, and Brian Barker. The news team included Pat McDermid, John Elston, Donna Murray, Peter May, and Dwight Smith (Sports). Mike McMan left for CJBK London, and was replaced by Brian Barker.

Former coach of the Argos, Leo Cahill joined CFGM to do sports commentaries. Ron Knight left CFGM to manager CKAN in Newmarket. Peter May was news director. 

On the air: Brian Barker, Dan Ryan, Dave Johnson, Stan Campbell, Gord Ambrose, Jim Marshall, Gary O’Brien (joined from CKOB Renfrew). The news team included: Phil Nolan, Gord Ambrose.

Long-time Toronto radio personality Dave Johnson died October 20. Jim Marshall took over the afternoon drive show.

Bob Johnson was named vice president and general manager of CFGM. He replaced Tony Viner who became executive vice president at Rogers Radio.

CFGM celebrated its 25th anniversary with a huge country music festival.

According to chief engineer Ron Heffler, CFGM had ordered a new Continental 317C-2 50kw transmitter. He said there were plans to put an extension on the now cramped transmitter building to make room for the new unit, the emergency generator and the standby RCA 10kw transmitter. At the studios, Ron installed a new McCurdy SS8650 console in MCR and rebuilt the old SS4400 unit and made it into the Production B console. 

Line-Up: Jim Marshall (6-10), Dan Ryan (10-2), Wayne Matthews (2-6 – joined in February), Brian Barker and Stan Campbell handled evenings and Gary O’Brien did overnights. John Loweth and Gord Ambrose were heard on weekends. 

John Donabie (10-2) and Jim Brady (2-6) joined the CFGM announce staff.

Despite the recent expansion done at the transmitter site, CFGM applied for a new home on the dial. It competed against Hamilton’s CHAM (1280) and Brampton’s CKMW (790) for 820 kHz. CFGM knew when it applied in 1976 to use 1320 kHz that the change would not produce the ideal signal, or allow the station to maximize its potential, but it was the only viable alternative available at the time. The move from 1310 to 1320 was an improvement. Over time though, growth around the Mississauga transmitter site had caused serious signal erosion. The increasing number of high rise buildings, installation of power lines in the area, and other detrimental factors had become a grave and ongoing concern for CFGM. The station claimed the problems were compounded at night, especially to the east, northeast and southeast parts of York Region. 

John Donabie became music director. Jim Marshall returned to hosting the morning show.

Allan Slaight changed the name of the company from IWC Radio to Slaight Investments.

Announcers included: Jim Marshall, Dan Ryan, John Donabie, Bill Kelly, Jim Brady, Jerry Samson, and Brian Barker. The news department included: Dan Turner, Pat McDermid, and Phil Noland.

On January 9, CFGM lost out to CHAM in Hamilton for a change of frequency to 820 kHz. CKMW Brampton had also applied for the channel. CFGM agreed with CRTC arguments that the move to 820 would increase its signal strength in Toronto but stated that its primary purpose was to improve service in York Region. The Commission invited CFGM to consult with the Department of Communications in finding other viable alternatives to resolve the existing technical difficulties. They noted that all three stations had major signal deficiencies but felt that 820 would be best used by CHAM. 

On November 14, the CRTC approved the sale of CFGM and CILQ by Slaight Communications Inc. to Westcom Radio Group Ltd. (WIC International Communications Ltd.). CFGM and Q107 were sold because Slaight had received approval to acquire Standard Broadcasting Corp. Ltd. Standard holdings included CFRB-AM and CKFM-FM in Toronto. Because of ownership restrictions, he would not have been able to own two English AM stations and two English FM stations in the same market. 

John Donabie left and was replaced by Ross Carlin. Donnie Burns was now heard on CFGM. Greg Slaight was general manager and Gary O’Brien was program director. 

Barry Triebell moved from retail sales manager to general sales manager. 

Jim Brady was now doing afternoons (2-6) at CFGM. Larry Solway returned to the Toronto airwaves to do a phone-in show at CFGM.

It was announced that CFGM would apply to the CRTC to change its frequency to 640 kHz. The frequency allowed for a maximum power of 25,000 watts day and night. CFGM proposed a transmitter location at Beamsville, in the Niagara peninsula. CKMW 790 in Brampton would also apply for 640. It should be noted that 640 was available when CFGM went after the 820 frequency. The station said it could not pursue 640 at that time because of the easements required from St. Catharines (CKTB 610) and Huntsville (CFBK 630). Since that time, CFGM had been successful in coming to terms with CKTB and CFBK and easements were granted where required. 

Since the application for 820 kHz, CFGM had told the CRTC of the extreme technical deficiencies of the existing 1320 signal. The station said there were numerous portions of the coverage area, both within the defined Toronto CMA and specific areas of York Region, where the 1320 signal was simply not listenable on a regular and ongoing basis. The situation had become even more extreme since then. CFGM also noted that with CHAM operating on 820 kHz, there was now an “out of town” country station with a better day and night signal in much of 1320’s primary coverage area than what CFGM could offer – and the format was introduced to the area by CFGM! CFGM was suffering from a decline in revenue and listenership. It stated it had an audience loss of 35% (total persons 7+) over the past three years. Operating profit had declined more than 38% in the past year, and future bookings and billings for the current year were more than 41% behind even the previous year’s dismal figures.

On October 2, CFGM won out over CKMW for the use of the 640 kHz frequency. Power would remain at 50,000 watts day and night. CFGM expected to double its potential daytime audience to three million within its 25 mV/m contour.

Announcers included Jim Marshall, Ross Carlin, Jim Brady, Gary O’Brien, Al Kingdon (joined from CKAN), Dan Ryan, Larry Solway (joined to host a talk show on September 22), Gord Ambrose. News: Teressa (traffic), Pat McDermid, Dan Turner, Ron Pollard, Peter May, Sue Hall, Gloria (traffic).

Terry Williams was appointed director of sales for CFGM and Q107.

The CRTC reaffirmed its approval of a change of frequency for CFGM, from 1320 kHz to 640 kHz. The Commission served notice on broadcasters that from now on it would expect applicants to advise local authorities of plans for building transmitter towers. CFGM planned to erect eight towers near Beamsville, across Lake Ontario from Toronto. Prior to the first hearing in June of 1986, the CRTC notice appeared only in the Richmond Hill newspaper, where CFGM’s studios were located. When the Commission approved CFGM’s application, a storm of protest from Niagara residents arose. The residents petitioned for a new hearing on the grounds they were not given adequate opportunity to make their views known.The federal cabinet then referred the decision back to the CRTC, and a second hearing was held March 3, 1987. CFGM replied to local concerns by noting that it would increase agricultural use of the 80-acre site to 97% by burying radials 18 to 24 inches and leasing the land to local producers; the towers would be slender and have only red aviation lights and not strobes; and recent land sales near the CKEY and CFTR sites indicated that transmitter sites did not reduce property values. Although the CRTC decision was confirmed, it would only take effect when CFGM had filed evidence that municipal zoning and land use requirements had been met, and would expire if not implemented by June 1, 1988. 

Jim Brady (afternoon drive) swapped shifts with Big Jim Marshall (morning drive). Brady was now morning man.

Peter Griffin joined November 16 to host the morning show. He had been at CFNY-FM and replaced Jim Marshall. Al Waksman joined the news department from CKAN. Newsman Pat McDermid left for CFNY-FM. Jim Brady left CFGM.

Ron Waksman joined CFGM news from CKAN Newmarket. He replaced Pat McDermid who left for CFNY-FM Brampton. 

Early in the year, chief engineer Ron Heffler reported that construction of the new transmitter site was underway. This followed confirmation from the CRTC on April 14 that it had received evidence from CFGM that the station had satisfied the zoning and land use requirements. Target date for the move to 640 kHz was set for September 1. The new antenna site would include eight towers and equipment for NRSC 10 kHz stereo. 

Abroyd Communications completed construction of CFGM’s eight 360 foot towers. The new towers incorporated LEC’s (lightning Dissipation Array) into the design to provide 100% protection against lightning. CFGM was expected to begin broadcasting from the new Beamsville transmitter site in mid-September.

CFGM began testing on 640 kHz in August. On September 16, at 6:40 p.m., the official switch from 1320 kHz to 640 kHz was made. CFGM began operating in stereo, using the Motorola C-Quam system. Power was 50,000 watts day and night, and a single directional antenna pattern was used. The antenna site was located in the Town of Lincoln (between Beamsville and Vineland Station), about 3 kilometres northeast of Beamsville, just off the QEW. Eight 360 foot (361 feet overall height or 110 meters) towers were used. With the move from 1320 to 640, CFGM added a potential audience of 3.5 million.

Christopher Grossman was appointed general sales manager for both CFGM and CILQ-FM. 

On-air: Ross Carlin (mornings), Al Kingdon (mid-days), Jim Marshall (afternoons), Brent Roy, Bob Privett, Nina Saunders, Gary O’Brien, Brian Barker and Larry Solway.

Nancy Brown became CFGM’s general sales manager, succeeding Barry Trebell.

Tom Tompkins was appointed CFGM’s program director.

Don Shafer was appointed president and general manager of CFGM / CILQ, and Christopher Grossman was named vice-president and director of sales. 

The news department included, Dave Trafford, Sue Hall, Ron Waksman, Bob Carr, Dave Spragge, John Gallagher (Sports), Doug Dirks, John Elston, Peter May, Dan Turner, Dave Kirkland (events). Traffic: Rob Valentine, Jayne Brown, Gloria Nicholls, Melissa.

Ross Carlin (mornings) left late in the year, and was replaced by Eric Hollo from CKAR Oshawa. Jim Marshall moved from afternoon drive to Weekends, and replaced by Colleen Troy in March. Brent Roy & Bob Privett left the station. Mike McMan returned to CFGM. Norm Murray left for CHUC in Cobourg. Doug Dirks (news) left for CKFM-FM and newsman Dan Turner moved to CHUM.

On February 26, the CRTC denied the application by Westcom Radio Group Ltd. to amend the licence for CFGM by relocating its studios from Yonge Street, Richmond Hill to Bloor Street East, Toronto. Westcom indicated that the relocation of its studios to Bloor Street East, the site of the studios of CILQ-FM, another station operated by Westcom, would allow CFGM to benefit from the human and physical resources of a joint operation, while retaining its individuality with respect to programming, news and marketing. In its assessment of the application, the Commission considered the impact that the relocation could have on the station’s orientation, and the likelihood of undue centralization of the licensee’s operations in Toronto. Having carefully considered the applicant’s arguments, the Commission was not convinced that CFGM would be able to ensure adequate coverage of Richmond Hill and York Region activities and to maintain its local involvement if this application were approved. 

CFGM on-air: Jim Brady (6-10), Al Kingdon (10-3), Colleen Troy (3-7), Mike McMan (7-12), Norm Murray / Nina Saunders (overnight). News: John Elston, Peter May, Dave Spragge, John Gallagher (sports), Dave Trafford, Nick Hallet, Dave Kirkland (Events)Traffic – Jane Browne, Melanie Curtis. Notes: Norm Murray returned from CHUC Cobourg. Jim Brady joined in early January and left in June, replaced by Eric Hollo. Brady was also consulting for a station in Dallas, so was flying back and forth between the two cities on the weekends. Former CFGM newsman Bob Crabb passed away September 29.

CFGM dropped its long-time country music format on June 29 at 5:00 p.m. At this time, a new Contemporary Hit station, CHOG “The HOG AM-6-40” was born. The “HOG” in the calls was chosen because Toronto was known to many locals as Hogtown. A brief history of CFGM was played before the changeover.

CHOG on-air: Pat Cochrane (5:30-9), Eric Hollo (9-12), Deanna Nason (12-3), Randy Taylor (3-7), Ken Coghlin (7-12). Overnight/weekends/swing: Adrian Bell, Jeff Chalmers, Tony Monaco, Norm Murray, Keith Elshaw, Mark Trafford. News: Donalee Williams, Charmain Mullen, David Spragge, John Gallagher (sports), Dave Trafford, J. Edward Stone (Al Kingdon), John Hesselink, Glen Stone, Paul Wainwright, Bob Carr, Bill Carroll. Traffic: Donna Saker, Melanie Curtis. Notes: Pat Cochrane joined from CJSB Ottawa. Randy Taylor and Deanna Nason had been at CKEY. Charmain Mullen joined from CFTR. Gary Aube was program director. 

Pete (PT) Taylor was named promotion director while Debra Svicki became assistant promotion director.

On January 16, the CRTC approved the applications by Westcom Radio Group Ltd. to amend the licences for CHOG Richmond Hill and CILQ-FM Toronto, by relocating their studios from Yonge Street, Richmond Hill and Bloor Street East, Toronto respectively, to a new location in North York. In 1990, the Commission denied Westcom’s proposal to relocate the studios of CHOG to Bloor Street East, Toronto because it was not convinced that CHOG would be able to ensure adequate coverage of Richmond Hill and York Region activities and maintain its local involvement. With respect to the latest applications, the Commission took into account the fact that the new location in North York was within CHOG’s primary coverage area and that Westcom intended to address the above-noted concerns by placing additional emphasis on surveillance, public service, fund-raising promotion, and available news in York Region. In addition, the Commission considered Westcom’s commitments to continue to operate broadcast studios in Richmond Hill at City Hall and to assign a reporter to cover York Region activities. Westcom also undertook to maintain the separate identity and personality of each station in the areas of programming, news and marketing. The Commission also noted Westcom’s contention that the relocation of both studios to a common site would result in a consolidation of operations and economic efficiencies which should benefit both stations. 

J. Edward Stone left for CKYC Toronto. Norm Murray left for CHTZ St. Catharines.

Westcom Radio Group finally consolidated its Toronto operations (CHOG/Q107 and the Rock Radio Network) in one facility. It was located in North York’s new Yonge-Norton Centre at 5255 Yonge Street. There was 21,500 square feet for the operations on the 14th and 15th floors of the new office building. The business and public areas of the facility were on the 14th floor while studios and production were on the 15th. The FM studio faced downtown Toronto while the AM faced its uptown and suburban audience. Auditronics 800 series on-air consoles were used in AM and FM control rooms. The move was completed in January. CILQ had been in the Hudson’s Bay Centre at Bloor and Yonge, while CFGM was at 10254 Yonge Street in Richmond Hill.

Rob Enders was director of engineering.

In June, CHOG shifted from youth oriented rock as “The Hog” to a mix of modern rock, pop and dance music as “AM 640, The New Beat of Toronto”. 

Pat Cochrane (mornings) left in July or August for CKIK-FM Calgary, replaced by Adrian Bell. Randy Taylor left in August for CHTZ-FM St. Catharines, replaced by Deanna Nason, who was replaced in mid-days by Tony Monaco. 

Elsie Zynos moved from the program director post at CHOG to the assistant PD position at CISS-FM. 

On-air: Adrian Bell (6-10), Tony Monaco (10-3), Deanna Nason (3-7), Ken Coghlin (7-11), Shelley Klink (11-12). Others: Gary Bell, Jeff Chalmers, Spaceman, B. J. Wilson. News: Donalee Williams, Kym Geddes, Kathleen Rankine, Dan Pollard, Dave Trafford, Bill Caroll, Marcia Leederman, John Hesselink, Donna Saker (traffic), Dave Kirkland (events).

Programming vice president Danny Kingsbury announced AM640 would pick up the Jesse (Dylan) & Gene (Valitis) morning show, dropped by CFTR 680 which had switched to all-news. The morning team had worked in the past for 640’s sister station Q107. Jesse & Gene (5:30 to 9) did their first show on June 21. Adrian Bell moved from mornings to mid-days. 

Tarzan Dan joined AM 640 on July 12 to handle afternoon drive. He had been at CFTR which had gone to all-news. Ken Caughlin remained in evenings, Deanna Nason left for CILQ-FM, Cat Spencer joined for weekends – from CFTR.

In August, Tony Monaco moved from noon-3 to weekends.

On September 7, AM 640 made the following changes to its schedule: Jesse & Gene (5:30-9), Bill Carroll (9-noon), automated music (12-1), Shelley Klink (1-2:30), automated music (2:30-3), Tarzan Dan (3-7), Kenny (evenings).

Frank Griffiths passed away at the age of 77 on April 7…the day he was to be inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

Announcers included: Jesse & Gene, Bill Carroll, Shelley Klink, Tarzan Dan, Spaceman, Maureen McCall, B.J. Wilson, Cat Spencer, Chris Eagle, Sue Johanson, Reiner Schwartz. News: Marcia Lederman, Donna Saker (traffic), Kathleen Rankine, John Hesselink (left for CFRB), John Gallagher (sports), Dave Trafford. 

John Gallagher left March 3. Evelyn Macko joined from CFTR on March 6.

AM640 signed a three year deal to carry Argo’s football. The games had been on CFRB. Mark Hebscher was named sports director of AM640 / Q107. He would also do play-by-play of Argonaut games. Hebscher had co-hosted “Sportsline” on the Global Television Network for the past eleven years. He joined 640 in June.

AM640 and morning man Jesse Dylan parted ways in the summer. Jane Hawtin joined Gene Valaitas as morning co-host. She had been with CFRB. Jane Hawtin’s daily one hour TV show (Jane Hawtin Live) from CHCH Hamilton was simulcast on AM640. It was added in the 1-2 p.m. slot as of August 28.

September 5 program line-up: Jane Hawtin & Gene Valaitis (5:30-9), Bill Carroll (9-12), Information Snack (12-1), Jane Hawtin Live (1-2), Horseman-Lederman (2-4), Tarzan Dan (4-7), Kenny Caughlin (7-10) and Shelley Klinck (10-1).

Tarzan did his last show on October 6. Ken Caughlin’s did his last show on October 10 (he went to CILQ-FM).

CHOG became known as “Talk 640” on October 11. The move completed a gradual trend toward talk radio. The station added “Talkline” with Roy Green from CHML Hamilton, several American shows from ESPN, and other national and local talk shows. One of the local programs was the “Marty & Avrum Restaurant Show”. Program director Danny Kinsbury called Marty & Avrum a couple of wacky restaurant critics. The new schedule: Jane Hawtin & Gene Valaitis (5:30-9), Roy Green (9-12), Fabulous Sports Babe (12-1), Jane Hawtin Live (1-2), Horseman-Lederman (2-4), Bill Carroll (4-7), Shelley Klinck (7-10), Jane Hawtin Live (10-11).

With the music gone from Talk 640, music director Debra Svicki moved over to sister station Q107, keeping the same title.

Frank Griffiths and Harold Roozen resigned as co-chairmen and as members of the executive committee at WIC Western International Communications. Edmund King, deputy chairman of Wood Gundy Inc., was the new chairman.

Gene Valaitis left in July for CILQ-FM. Later in the summer: Jane Hawtin moved to afternoon drive from mornings. Bill Carroll remained in mornings. In September, Steve Warden joined briefly for PM Drive and was then replaced by Bob Bratina. Larry Solway joined for evenings. 

The corporate name changed to WIC Radio Limited.

Murray Eldon joined Talk 640 as a sales rep and Blue Jays commentator. He had been the Jay’s booth announcer.

Emily Griffiths, president of Western Broadcasting and controlling shareholder of WIC, retired on the third anniversary of her husband Frank’s death. She said she had always intended to leave at age 75. Mrs. Griffiths remained with the company as chairman emeritus. She was succeeded on the board of directors by Edmondo Giacomelli.

Joe Zenobio was appointed vice president of finance for Talk640/Q107 (and ONtv Hamilton).

On-air: Bill Carroll (6-10), Larry Solway (10-1), Dr. Laura Schlessinger (1-4), Bob Bratina (4-7), Joan Rivers (7-9), Dr. Gabe Mirkin (9-11), Rhona (11-2). News: Michelle Monroe, Kym Geddes, Evelyn Macko, Dave Trafford, Scott Caldwell, Kathleen Rankine, Larry Silver. Notes: In April, the following weekend shows were dropped: David Chalk and Jeremy Cato. Bill Carroll left May 6 (eventually winding up at CFRB). Jane Hawtin left July 18. Dr. Laura moved over from 1050 CHUM in late August. Joan Rivers was added September 2. Bratina and Solway left in November.

New line-up as of November 17: Tom Rivers (6-9), Dr. Joy Browne (9-noon), Horseman-Lederman (12-2), Dr. Laura (2-5), Horseman-Lederman (5-6:30), Canada’s Business Report (6:30-7), Susan Powter / Dr. Gabe Mirkin (7-11) and Rhona (11-2).

Russ Le Blanc joined the on-air weekend line-up in the summer.

On May 26, WIC Radio Ltd. was granted a licence for a transitional digital radio undertaking to serve Toronto. The transmitter would be installed at the CN Tower and would employ the EUREKA-147 digital audio broadcasting system. CHOG would operate on 1465.024 MHz with effective isotropic radiated power of 5084 watts.

The Griffiths Family holdings in WIC Western Communications Ltd were sold, subject to CRTC approval, to Shaw Communications Inc. and CanWest Global Communications Corp.

Following months of negotiations, agreements were filed with the CRTC on the split of WIC assets between CanWest Global and Corus Radio Co. (formerly Shaw Radio Co.) and Shaw Communications.  WIC Radio, including CHOG-AM, became the property of Corus Radio. Co.  

On-Air: Tom Rivers (5-9), Dr. Joy Browne (9-noon), Karen Horsman & Marsha Lederman (noon-2), Dr. Laura (2-5), Horseman-Lederman (5-6:30), Canada’s Business Report with Ron Adams, Susan Poweter (7-10), Dr. Laura (10-11), Rhona Raskin (11-2), Art Bell (2-3), Stirling Faux (3-5). Weekends: Rich Elwood, Art Drysdale, Shell Busey, Jim Kenzie, Christine McPhee, Peter Weissbach, Paul Bates, Marty Galin & Avrum Rosensweig. Sports: Jim Lang, Andy Frost (Leafs), Jim Ralph (Leafs), Joe Bowen (Leafs), Bob Bratina (Argos). On-air Notes: Horsman went on maternity leave (never returned). Lederman took over 12-2 on her own, Dave Trafford & Gary Bell took over 5-6:30pm. Geddes left for CHUM, replaced by Larry Silver. Jim Lang joined for sports. Pat Fitzgerald joined for news. Weissbach joined for weekends. Busey was cancelled and Art Drysdale’s show was expanded to Home & Garden. Second Opinion health show added on weekends. Susan Powter cancelled and replaced by Joan Rivers 7-9. Dr. Gabe Mirkin on at 9.

Kim Geddes left Talk 640/Q107 news to take up anchor/reporter duties at CHUM.

On-air: Tom Rivers (5-9), Dr. Joy Browne (9-12), Marsha Lederman (12-2), Dr. Laura Schlessinger (2-5), Dave Trafford (5-6:30), Pat Bolland (Business), Joan Rivers (7-9), Dr. Gabe Mirkin (9-10), Dr. Laura (10-11), Rhona Raskin (11-2), ARt Bell (2-3), Stirling Faux (3-5). Weekends: Art Drysdale, Christine McPhee, Peter Warren, Paul Bates, Rich Elwell. News: Larry Silver, Jim Lang, Colleen Rusholme, Evelyn Macko, Kathleen Rankine, James MacPhee, Mike Farwell, Sandy Salerno, Ken Mann, John Anthony, Rob Haswell, Colleen Rusholme (Traffic), Jim Lang (Sports), Bob Bratina (Argos). 

New line-up as of September 7: Michael Coren (6-9), Dr. Laura (9-12), Dave Rutherford (12-2), Dr. Joy Browne (2-4), Marsha Lederman (4-7), Spider Jones (7-9), Dr. Laura (9-10), Focus On The Family (10-11), Those Old Radio Shows (11-12), Rhona Raskin (12-2), Art Bell (2-6). Leafs: Andy Frost, Jim Ralph, Joe Bowen, Dennis Beyak. Notes: Lederman took over 5-6:30 before Rivers joined. Faux dropped & Art Bell extended 2-5am. Rich Elwell weekend late-night show dropped, Art Bell from 12-6am. Ken Mann joined for news. Tom Rivers left Aug 9, replaced by Michael Coren who joined from CFRB Sept 7. Dave Rutherford added. Spider Jones joined from CJCL. 

Dave Trafford left Talk640 in March, for CFRB. He had been News Director and Assistant Program Director.

Talk640 announced that it had secured the rights to Toronto Maple Leafs Hockey through the 2003-2004 season.

CHOG became CFYI (still Talk 640) on November 15.

New WIC Western International Communications CEO was Peter Classon, who succeeded Thomas Peddie. Classon had served on WIC’s Board of directors but was probably best known as the former President/CEO of the BC Lions football club.

On-air: Larry Silver (5-9), Dr. Joy Browne (9-12), Dave Rutherford (12-2), Dr. Laura Schlessinger (2-4), Marsha Lederman (4-7), Spider Jones (7-9), Focus on the Family (9-9:30), Insight for Living (9:30-10), Those Old Radio Shows (10-11), Rhona Raskin (11-2), Art Bell (2-5). Traffic: Sandy Salerno, Brad Barker. Weekends: Don Andrews, Art Drysdale, Martin Wales, Live Audio Wrestling, Harold Segal, Paul Barecca, Marilyn Weston, Frank Abate, Peter Warren, Chris Reynolds, Alan Mayer, Christine McPhee. News: Evelyn Macko, James McPhee, Kathleen Rankin, Sandy Salerno, John Anthony, Rob Haswell, David Melbourne, Derrick Oliver, Chris Mavridis, Jim Lang (Sports). Leafs: Andy Frost, Jim Ralph, Joe Bowen, Dennis Beyak.

Line-up as of November: Larry Silver (5-9), Dr. Joy Browne (9-12), Dave Rutherford (12-3), Dr. Laura (3-6), Spider Jones (6-8), Mark Elliot’s People Helping People (8-10), Insight for Living (10-10:30), Those Old Radio Shows with Iain Grant (10:30-11), Rhona Raskin (11-2), Art Bell (2-5). Notes: Coren left January 4 and was replaced by Lederman and then Larry Silver. Iain Grant became program director, joining from CFRB. David Melbourne joined for news from CFTR. 20-20 news added. Derrick Oliver joined briefly for news from CKGL Kitchener, then left for CFTR. Peter Warren cancelled. John Dickie and Gene Valaitis returned briefly for fill-in talk. Live Audio Wrestling added – had been on CJCL. Argos football moved from 640 to CJCL. August: the station dropped all of its “doctor” programs except for Dr. Laura. Gone were Dr. Gabe Mirkin, Dr. Art Hister, the medical infomercials, and as of August 13, the locally produced Sunday show, “The Touch of Health” with Christine McPhee. Don Andrews joined for Saturday mornings in Aug. Also added to weekends: Mark Elliot’s “People Helping People”. Mike Segel replaced Art Bell in April. Chris Mavridis joined (news) in January from CFTR. Marsha Lederman did her last show on CFYI on October 20. She moved on to CBC Radio.

Stewart Meyers took on added duties as operations manager at CFYI as well as continuing on as Q107’s program director.

Corus gave the push to 11 on-air, news, sales and support staff at CFYI. Among those let go were news director James McPhee, morning host Larry Silver, sales rep Murray Eldon, news staffers Sandy Salerno, David Melbourne and Kathleen Rankin; Cathy Nicol in promotions, and Richard Levear, and Mark Elliott, host of “People Helping People”. Renee Roth was the new RSM at CFYI, promoted from account executive.

On April 23, at 6:40 a.m., CFYI “Talk 640” re-launched as “Mojo Radio” – the world’s first Talk Radio station for guys. 

On-Air – as of April 23: Humble & Fred (5-9:20), Ripkin! with Richard Peter Keith Loewen (9:20-12), Mojo Magazine with Mae Pauts (12-2), Definitely Derringer (2-3), Dirt Radio with Scruff Connors (3-4), Mike Stafford (4-7), Spider Jones (7-9), Sports (MLB, NFL, Leafs, Phantoms) (9-midnight), Mojo Sex Show with Rebecca Rosenblat (12-1), Art Bell (1-5). Weekends: Gary Bell, Jimmy Cauchon, Don Andrews. News: Evelyn Macko, Jim Lang, James McPhee, Sandy Salerno, David Melbourne, Kathleen Rainkine, Chris Mavridis. Notes: Format and line-up officially announced April 19. Schedule fully in place on April 23 at 6:40 a.m.. Program Director is Iain Grant. Spider Jones left for CFRB. No changes until April 20. Art Bell returned February 5 replacing Mike Siegel. On April 3, the following were let go: News Director James McPhee, morning host Larry Silver, newcasters Sandy Salerno, David Melbourne and Kathleen Rankin, and Mark Elliott, host of the “People Helping People” show. Humble & Fred’s CFNY morning show was simulcast on 640 starting the following day. This continued until April 20 when Mojo Radio premiered. Chris Mavridis left in November.

With the change to Mojo Radio in April, Russ Le Blanc was no longer part of the weekend programming line-up.

On November 1, CFYI became CFMJ (as in Mojo). 

In June it was announced that the noontime program “Leafs Lunch” would be cancelled and replaced with the Corus Network’s Charles Adler Show which would now run from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Former Leafs Lunch host Bill Watters would handle a sports show between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m., Adler’s old time slot.

There were a number of changes at Corus Entertainment related to its organization review to streamline decision-making and clarify roles and mandates. Among the changes: Reporting to Hal Blackadar, Executive Vice President and interim President of Corus Radio – Dave Farough, VP, Brands and Programming in Toronto (was GM at Corus Radio London) and Chris Pandoff, VP/GM, Corus Radio Toronto and Hamilton (was VP/GM for Corus Radio Toronto only but now added Hamilton duties held by Suzanne Carpenter). Lars Wunsche was now GSM, Corus Radio Toronto (was GM at CJDV-FM/CKBT-FM Kitchener).

In September, the Corus corporate headquarters and Corus Toronto radio stations moved to a new eight-storey, glass-clad, 482,000 square foot building on Toronto’s waterfront. Corus Quay was owned and managed by the City of Toronto’s arms-length real estate development company, Build Toronto, and named for its principal tenant, Corus Entertainment. The facility was located at 25 Dockside Drive in Toronto. 

Chris Pandoff became Executive Vice President and President of Corus Radio effective December 1, responsible for the radio stations and the division’s interactive arm. He succeeded Hal Blackadar, the interim President of Corus Radio, who announced his retirement earlier that year after four decades in broadcasting. Pandoff was most recently Vice President/General Manager of Corus Radio Toronto and Hamilton.

In December, Corus Entertainment announced the appointment of Suzanne Carpenter as general manager of the Corus Toronto radio stations, effective January 3, 2011. She had been vice president and general manager of Corus Radio Eastern Ontario, CHEX TV and CKWS TV, and prior to that, she was general manager, Corus Radio Hamilton. 

Talk Radio AM640 launched a new afternoon drive show (4:00 to 7:00 p.m.) with Arlene Bynon. Tina Trigiani assumed Bynon’s midday time slot from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bill Watters daily radio show was removed from the line-up at AM640. Jonas Siegel left for TSN Radio 1050. Dan Dunleavy joined AM640’s Toronto Maple Leaf broadcast team as of September 19. He had been with FAN 590 (CJCL). In his new role, Dunleavy would share play-by-play duties with Joe Bowen (including pre-season games), host all pre-game shows when the Maple Leafs were on home ice, as well as guest host on Leafs Breakfast. Other members of the Leafs broadcast team were Bill Watters, Jim Ralph and Andy Frost.

Former CFGM personality Bob Laine (Shlanger) passed away August 31. He worked at CFGM for a short time in 1962.

Suzanne Carpenter became GM at Corus Radio Toronto on January 3. She also retained her VP role at Corus Entertainment. Carpenter had been VP/GM, Corus Radio Eastern Ontario, CHEX-TV Peterborough and CKWS-TV Kingston. 

Michael Emmons became engineering remote coordinator for Corus Radio Toronto. Greg Brady left AM 640 for The Fan 590. He had done a 2-year stint as co-host of the Bill Watters Show on 640. Rob Johnston moved “upstairs” at Corus. He was now creative director at the centralized “Production Centre of Excellence” which served the company’s radio stations in Ontario. He had been creative director at Corus Radio Toronto. 

Suzanne Carpenter, vice president and general manager of Corus Radio Toronto also become responsible for Corus Radio Hamilton as of mid-August. Renee Roth was no longer sales manager at AM 640.

Lars Wunsche, director of sales for Corus Radio Toronto, added the Corus Hamilton cluster to his sales responsibilities. Hamilton GSM Carolyn Thorn would report to Wunsche.

Peter Solala became sales manager at Corus Radio Toronto September 1. He moved from Corus Interactive and Integrated Solutions, also at Corus Quay in Toronto, where he was director of sales.

Former AM640 talk host Larry Solway passed away January 9 at age 83. 

Jeff McArthur was added to the Talk640 schedule (2-4 p.m.) in August/September. He continued to host a 2-hour talk show on sister station CFPL-AM London but dropped his morning host duties at More 103.9 Woodstock/London.

In December, AM640 announced that Bill Carroll would be joining the station as the new afternoon drive (4-7 p.m.)host starting January 7, 2013. Bill would be on the air with Arlene Bynon. Bill would continue his top-rated Los Angeles-based talk show on KFI AM 640.

Talk 640 cut a deal with talker Bill Carroll of KFI Los Angeles to also do Toronto Afternoon Drive, which began January 7. He was paired in Toronto with Arlene Bynon. Carroll was a long-time host at CFRB and, up until a few weeks ago, did daily cameo chats with ‘RB’s afternoon driver, John Tory.

Stan Larke passed away in December at age 84. The long-time broadcaster worked at radio stations in Brampton, Richmond Hill, Toronto and Galt. 

Gord Harris, the Program Director of AM640 and head of Corus Radio’s News/Talk operations, retired at the end of August after 43 years in radio. He’d been with AM640 for ten years and was the senior PD for Corus Entertainment for the 12 years preceding that. Before moving to Toronto, Harris had been with CFPL and CJBK in London for a number of years. In the fall, AM 640 became available in HD via sister station CING 95.3 in Hamilton. CFMJ was using CING’s HD2 channel.

Paul Dorazio died in January at age 74. Known on the air as Paul Revere, he was a programmer and announcer at various locations, including St. John’s, Hamilton, Thunder Bay, Regina (CKRM) and the old CFGM. Former CFGM chief engineer Brian Sawyer also passed away in January, a month short of his 76th birthday. His career started out in 1962 at CHML and CHCH-TV Hamilton. He later worked at CFTO-TV and then CFGM. He owned his own engineering consultancy and also worked at the CBC’s engineering headquarters in Montréal.

In November, CFMJ changed its branding to Global News Radio 640 Toronto.

In December, the rebranded Global News Radio network in Ontario (CFMJ, CHML and CFPL) added Alex Pierson to its schedule, weeknights from 7-10 p.m. Charles Adler would follow Pierson, starting in January (2018). He was already being heard on CJOB Winnipeg, CHED Edmonton, CHQR Calgary and CKNW Vancouver.

On January 22, Corus Radio launched a new overnight talk show, The Shift with Drex. The four-hour show aired on CKNW Vancouver, CHQR Calgary, CHED Edmonton, CJOB Winnipeg, CFMJ Toronto, CHML Hamilton, and CFPL London. The four hour show was based at CKNW.

Gary “Spaceman” Bell died June 4. Bell was the long-time host of “A View From Space,” on Talk Radio AM 640. Corus Entertainment pulled the show in November after Bell delved into material that Corus deemed anti-Semitic. He was also known for his on-air work at CFTR-AM where he worked as a late night jock from the late 1970s to the early 90s. Prior to CFTR, Bell was at CKGM-AM Montreal.

Sandra Carusi died August 13. She had been a long-time Corus Toronto sales rep and hosted Inside Jokes on AM 640. Carusi joined Corus Toronto in 1999 as an account executive for CILQ, CFNY, CING and CFMJ.

Former CFGM newscaster Dan Turner passed away in September.