WIP-AM in Philadelphia talk show host Mike Missanelli
"was suspended two days last week for criticizing Flyers
management," according to Tim Panaccio of the PHILADELPHIA
INQUIRER, who cites sources at the sports-talk radio
station. The suspension stemmed from a clause in the
station's contract to broadcast Flyers and 76ers games that
prohibits "personal attacks" on the teams, players or
management. But several WIP hosts said that the clause
"represents an attempt by the station," which is owned by
Infinity Broadcasting, a subsidiary of CBS, "to muzzle them
and is part of a broader effort by the Flyers to obtain
favorable coverage." WIP morning show host Angelo Cataldi:
"I am offended that the Flyers feel they can set the rules
on how WIP does talk radio. I am not about to allow them to
dictate how their rules apply to me." Panaccio notes that
"while it is not uncommon for such a no-criticism clause to
apply to game commentators, WIP hosts are rebelling at
extending it to their call-in talk programs." WIP GM Butch
Forster denied that the station was "engaging in censorship"
and said, "We allow our hosts to articulate their opinions."
Flyers COO Ron Ryan said that the clause was added to the
team's broadcasting agreement with the station in '98, after
WIP settled a lawsuit brought by the team over a report by
WIP employee and former host Craig Carton stating that
Flyers C Eric Lindros had missed a game because he was "hung
over." Flyers Chief Counsel Phil Weinberg, on what the
clause entails: "WIP will exhibit reasonable effort to
prevent their on-air talent from engaging in personal
attacks on our teams, players and management personnel."
One WIP host said, "CBS did this deal, not WIP. It's
amazing that a major television network would bow to the
Flyers." But Forster denied that CBS was involved and said
that "no one sold anyone out" (PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, 6/23).
