Stingray is moving away from airing 24/7 news/talk programming on Kamloops, BC heritage station, CHNL.
The network says going forward the AM station will now broadcast a mix of music focused in the Classic Hits variety genre, as well as news, sports, and community information to ensure its long-term viability.
Stingray Radio President Steve Jones told Broadcast Dialogue that reports the entire newsroom has been laid off are incorrect. Four staff members were impacted in news and programming. Jones said CHNL will retain a three-person newsroom and continue to provide frequent local news updates.
“As a result of this difficult decision, some positions were impacted in news and programming,” said Jones. “Our remaining news team at Radio NL will continue to provide the most local newscasts throughout the day reflecting all that is important in our community.”
Jones refuted any suggestion the station is being shut down or sold.
“Over the past year, numerous AM radio stations have closed across Canada, and AM stations in smaller markets have been particularly challenged,” he said. “Stingray still believes in AM radio and in the role that Radio NL will continue to play as an important voice in the Kamloops community.”
Among staff announcing their departure was Brett Mineer, who had been a talk show host and producer with the station since 2018.
