Today, I received an email in my junk email account that WBT had fired afternoon drive time host Jeff Katz.  In the Charlotte area, we have had only one news talk-station until recently and Jeff Katz was the local conservative voice for thousands of listeners.  According to the WBT press release, he is being replaced with late night host Tara Servatius.  No reason was provided for the sudden change. 

I'm disappointed to see Jeff Katz go.  He was a strong advocate for common sense, conservative values, and he was on the side of local REALTOR issues.  During the previous election cycle, Katz devoted a few shows to rallying against the real estate transfer tax.  He also was not afraid to ask the tough questions we all were thinking when the Charlotte Observer ran a series about a local builder who's homes were foreclosing. 

Katz was our local Limbaugh but unlike Rush, you could call in and debate.  Getting through to Rush is a science that few have mastered.  Whenever I had time and a topic arose I felt needed my opinion, I would call in and felt as if I was chatting with an old friend.  I guess that type of "smart" radio isn't what WBT is all about? 

I don't get Keith Larson or the phenomenon of Tara Servatius as neither should be on a station this powerful.  WMAL released it's long time personality Chris Core, who was far and away more talented than either of these two.  Keith's style is hard to follow unless you're a loyal listener as he will spend entire shows on mindlessness.  The former pitchman for a national fast food chain never stops pitching, a trait that is downright irritating.  Who knew that 2 for 2 would make a career?

Tara's style is very slow.  Don't get me wrong: no one is more prepared on the radio but she has ZERO personality to back it up.  Paint drying has more personality.  I always assumed the station had Tara on at night to help its listeners sleep more soundly through the night.  Now, my concern is that her dry style will result in untold numbers of car accidents during her 3-6pm show.

John Hancock is still a favorite and so is John Wilson's The Wilson Show. 

I guess the only bright spot is that Charlotte now has another news-talk radio, 1220 WDYT.  While still in its infantcy, WDYT has some of the best personalities on the radio locally including Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity, and Dennis Miller.  AM 960 WTRU has even started broadcasting the Dave Ramsey Show during the afternoon drive time, which I will be tuning into from now on. 

Thank you Jeff Katz for your work for the military, for your support of local first responders, and for children with Special Needs.  May you land somewhere you will be appreciated and you can flourish. 

...and if its not here in town, need a REALTOR?

Jonathan Osman

Charlotte NC Homes