Simply put, this is by far, the #1 ranked aircheck on this site! Recorded sometime in the 1990s, here’s Mark Wallengren & Kim Amidon and their former wildly popular “Mark & Kim” morning show on KOST 103.5.
Judging from the comments posted about this recording, its clear that this morning team was perhaps the most popular in Southern California. Shortly after we posted this aircheck, Kim Amidon was let go by parent company Clear Channel Communications. The morning show has never been the same, but the listener comments continue posting even today, as this has become THE place for current and former listeners to vent.
Courtesy of contributor Robyn Watts!
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Thanks for your update on Kim, Mark. Having been affected “corporte downsizing” myself after years on their payroll, Kim has weighed heavy on my mind. Glad to hear she was provided a comfortable severence package and that she is happily pursuing something else, however that doesn’t mean we don’t miss her and hope the two of you can reunite on the airwaves!
Having cut Kim Amadon from the morning show was not a smart move. They are a terrific radio duo which is the reason I listened to the show along with many others. I now listen to other stations in the morning. I guess she was let go because she was the female. Typical and I am not a woman’s libber, just stating the facts.
You have lost alot of listeners to cut costs. Should of saved the costs in other areas.
Dumb Move !!!
I’m glad I found this website and read your response here. I was waiting for your response on my email address but you never responded. Your response on this website is good enough,I’m sure you have been bombarded with questions about Kim.
I was really shocked to hear what they did to her but listening to you alone on the show without Kim is not the same. You are such a good couple on air, the show is more lively, what can I say. It may take awhile before all of us forget what had happened and how good to hear both of you on the air. However, no matter how hard it is to think and listen that Kim will not going to be on the air with you, I will continue to listen on your morning show. Can I tell you something? I just don’t like to hear whoever is that girl giggling on the background when you say something funny or scarcastic statement, her giggle is so annoying! Sorry, maybe because I still want to hear Kim’s laughs on air and not that girl. Just let her know to keep it down. Give my regards to Kim. God bless the two of you and your families.
Like most of what I have been reading, I am very unhappy with the turn of events at KOST. I wrote before, and it didn’t seem to make anyone take notice. I will say it again. Mark alone, isn’t interesting enough to listen to. I don’t listen to KOST during the Christmas music because it is way too much and way too soon. When the holidays were over, and I listened to my radio/alarm clock in the mornings, I never heard a word from or about Kim. I had to do some searching, and found she is no longer part of the KOST family. What a waste. On her own, Kim was great. As part of a team, she kept Mark in touch with us enough to make if fun and interesting. On his own, I am glad that I listen to stories on CD instead of the radio. I won’t have to get attached to another group on another radio station, and be let down again. Way to go KOST, keep losing listeners and see where it gets you!!
It goes to show you that if Kim was let go in November – and we are still discussing this in February – it’s a subject that is not going to go easy into the night.
I think that it is great that Mark left a comment – but it’s very telling that the underlying theme amongst the posters here is that they no longer listen to the show.
I find Mark very personable and have tuned in from time to time since Kim’s departure – but I think that it will be a bad idea to pair him with someone else.
The backlash will be incredible. It will be interesting to see how all of this plays out.
I am glad that Kim was well compensated and that she is doing what she wants to do now. I firmly believe in my heart that she will come out on top.
Oh Kost – I will miss you terribly. Thanks for the memories.
Thank you Mark for you comments. I think it was very brave of you to comment for fear that you might take the wrath of KOST/Clearwater.
You are a good person with a nice family but you alone with Rodrigo and this Klaudia (with a K) just doesn’t cut it. The few seconds I do listen, the show sounds too scripted and you sound unhappy and unfocused/lost. I do not think it will work to hook you up with another person. I think that would just agitate people even more, especially the one’s that do not know what went down. I am sorry Mark, but I fear that your job is in jeapardy not matter how much you kiss KOST’s/Clearwater’s behinds. It is all about money for them.
A confession, I stopped listening full time a couple of years ago. Not your fault, having teenage children, my taste changed as they have force me to listen to their radio stations. But, “Mark and Kim” had a very loyal following and I really respect and appreciate that. I, myself listened for many, many years. You and Kim will always have a place in my heart.
Good luck Mark, even though I no longer listen, I am pulling for you.
p.s. KOST has way too many commericals. Another reason I stopped listening is I got tired of hearing the commercials that got slipped in with yours and Kim’s dialogs and the also teasers. It became too difficult (and way too early in the morning)to try to distinguish if you guys were sharing real life stories or scripting a commercial. For people who listen while driving to work, it is frustrating to hear a teaser on something that is coming up when you know you have to be in an office where you are not able to listen to the radio. Better to not know what you are missing.
I have been a long time listener to KOST and when I first heard Kim was gone I did cry! It was unbelieveable!! She was such a big part in the success of the station and then poof, you’re gone…I no longer listen to KOST. I’m now a KMVN/Rick Dees listener. Sorry Mark, miss you Kim.
Linda R.
Riverside, CA
Mark,
Thank you for leaving your commit. I have continued to listen to Kost because I do enjoy listening to you,I love the show but I have to say even though you are much fun to listen to, it is not the same without Kim. I just can’t stop missing the show the way it has been for years.
Why do good things have to be fixed when they are so good?? I will never understand the change what a big dissapointment still!!
Connie Brenner
Why doesn’t Kim herself comment on this blog. I’m sure she knows of it’s existence. Maybe it’s part of her severance pay arrangement that she should not discuss her terms or the reasons, she was let go.
I am really not sure what is going on with LA radio. When Charlie Tuna got the ax on K-BIG and brought in that ridiculous Valentine and changed everything to MyFM I just wasn’t feelin it. I was so dissapointed and sad.
But at least Mark and Kim were there. That team was a constant in a sea of ridiculousness. I am 34 years old and literaly grew up listeing them.
Now, that Kim is gone I am just PISSED. I am so fed up with Clear Channel that I am just going to listen to my I-POD.
SCREW IT. THE MAGIC IS GONE!!!!!!!!!!!!
KOST is just not the same without Kim! I, like numerous other listeners, have moved on to other radio stations. What a shame.
Although the comments by “Mark Wallengren” on Jan 29 seem sincere, for some reason I do not believe it is really him. Why would he refer to KOST as “Coast”? Seems like this person is trying to make the station sound like they did the fair thing, accomodate Kim while accomodating themselves… pretty fishy…
I’m hoping another station picks up the AC format because Clear Channel is burning a lot of bridges…
We us the word “Coast” because that’s how we pronounce it.
FYI…John! Kim never looked at her own email let alone bother to look at blogs. I’ll let her know about the blog that gets one post on the subject a week.
Kost,
What is going on?? The past few mornings you have 4 way conversations now including Stella! As much as I love listening to Mark I have had it and will be changing my morning station for a while Or forever. What you are all doing does not compare to the wonderful past mornings with Mark and Kim. Mark you are so much fun and I love listening to you but this is to much!!
Bye
KOST’s behavior towards Kim is not just disrespectful towards her, but is disrespectful to all of us who would be their audience.
Since my retirement I spend alot of time out of the state. I kept wondering when I tuned in to Kost whey I wasn’t hearing Kim’s voice. Today I after tuning in to Kost in my car radio, my curiousity got the better of me and I checked the internet for info, imagine my shock when I found that Kim was let go by those brilliant corporate minds who decide for us what we should enjoy listening too. I listening to Mark and Kim for the past twenty plus years. My alarm would wake me up to their voices and I enjoyed listening to them until I got to work, I felt like I was a part of their family. I agree with so many other listeners, the show is now boring and dying. This is one person who will no longer tune in to Kost Radio. Kim good luck and God speed.
You know, the whole staff was saddened by the loss of Kim as well as midday host Mike Sakellarides and Julie Kertes who was our Marketing Director when they were let go the next day. We had a great team. Still what saddens me more is to hear how many people will abandon those of us still working hard to keep the home fires burning. Mark works his tail off every day as does Karen Sharp. Mark has worked with a partner for 22 years and he’s still working on making the adjustment. I understand your frustration and anger, but if you give us time, you may come to like what you hear. Yes, there will most likely be a replacement for Kim. At this time I know not who it will be, and yes it won’t be the same, but you’ll get 110% from those of us on air at the Coast.
I too have been a loyal KOST listener for over 10 years and LOVED Mark and Kim. In November when we learned Kim was let go I decided to listen in for Mark and Rodrigo’s sake. It has been too awkward and even painful to listen to even for just a few minutes. The magic is gone and it is so obvious. I miss Kim’s laugh and antics so much. And, Stella stepping in, oh boy, she’s terrible. Sorry Stella but you should stick with your real job. In January I found KRTH101 and have come to laugh out loud again as I crawl down the 91 Fwy-Gary Bryan, Lisa Stanley, Super Sam and Timmy the Cabana Boy are a hoot together. Although we never really hear Tim. They just playfully pick on him. I recommnend other KOST listeners give them a try. They are endearing and FUNNY and I can’t believe how quickly I’ve connected with them. Charlie Tuna subs for them too when they are on vacation, so it’s like visiting with a dear and charming friend. Give them a listen and you’ll go back to cracking up again, especially with Gary’s Fickle Finger of Fate Award, and the daily poll questions. And, Lisa sounds so cute with her squeeky voice and Sam has a great laugh. I love it when Gary teases them and they give it right back. Great team!
Sorry Mark, it just isn’t working for me. After being a faithful listener for years I am sadly going to have to say good-bye. I no longer look forward to turning on the radio in my car and at work to listen to Mark and Kim. Now when I turn it on I here Mark and other anonymous voices trying to make the show work. Good Luck
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I find it somewhat disturbing that people can write off a station just because someone was let go. We all love Kim, but losing her in the morning doesn’t make the rest of the broadcast day sound any different. We still have an outstanding night show in Lovesongs on the Coast and the rest of us are working even harder to keep the station sounding as it always has. Mark gets in before dawn and most days doesn’t leave until 2 or 3 in the afternoon. I also have to wonder why people would take out their anger on assistant producer Klaudia. She was there before Kim and had NOTHING to do with Kim’s departure. As upset as we all were about losing Kim, I would like to point out that we lost other great people too in midday host Mike Sakellarides and marketing director Julie Kertes. As Mark pointed out, Kim is doing well, but not everyone made morning drive money and I worry about my friends Mike & Julie and Claudia Vine who was another promotions department casualty. They have families and their lives were affected negatively as well.
You can be upset by the departures of these fine people, but I feel it’s unfair to direct your anger at those left behind like Mark & Klaudia who had no say in the decision making process.
I was a long-time Mark and Kim listener back in the mid-late 80’s until I returned to my home state of Michigan in ‘93. You all should know that I found out about Kim’s departure in a regular feature in my local paper (The Oakland Press) that writes about Radio and Radio Broadcasting. What a disappointment. I fell in love in Southern California with Mark and Kim in the background. I still listen on line sometimes. KOST is still a good station with a lot of on-air talent, but there is a big gap in the mornings. I hope Clear Channel rethinks their poor move…
I hope that Kim and Mark will be reunited at a new radio station and call it the best of the new Mark and Kim good morning ahow and have all the listeners go on field trips to different theme parks, to different theatres to see different plays, and take the listeners to different museums and to different beaches during the summer and during the winter, I would to be the host putting together breakfast with Mark and Kim as well in Mark and Kim’s studio and cafe.
Bryan Simmons,
First and foremost thank you for posting. I haven’t been here posting in awhile – but saw your post and wanted to respond. I think what a lot of us are going through is the classis “grief cycle” where something traumatic happens and you go through anger, denial, sadness, and ultimately acceptance.
The firing of Kim hit all of us on some level or another in a personal way. For me it was the fact that she and I are both single mothers who are trying to make a living.
I think also too that for my family listening to KOST during the holidays has become a tradition and it was like celebrating the first holiday after a relative passes away. It’s hard, it’s difficult but ultimately you accept it.
I just feel that the way the whole situation was handled was poorly done and I believe that time will heal that. With that being said – when you have had loyal listeners for 20+ years they have the right to be upset.
I do agree however that calling people out by their names and comparing them to Kim simply isn’t appropriate. Claudia, Rodrigo and Stella are trying the best that they can – and they shouldn’t get the brunt of how we feel – but I think it is going to take awhile before all of this pans out.
Thanks again for posting and best of luck to you!
Rebecca,
Thank you for your words. And to all readers I apologize for the double posts. When my first post didn’t show up I wrote another. I just felt that these things needed to be said. I see these people every day and can tell you that they are good people who are doing tremendous work on the air and behind the scenes. I’m sure if Kim were to read all of these posts she would find it gratifying to have such support. I also feel that this just goes to show you that even in this day and age radio can still be a moving and intensely personal medium that creates a bond between the people on the air and the listeners on the other end. Thanks again,
Bryan
I am a long-time resident of SoCal and a long time listener of SoCal radio broadcasting. In the ’80s I enjoyed KROQ -Ramando and Blade and Poor Man…never really got into Kevin and Bean. I jumped stations to Mark and Kim in the 90s; I really enjoyed their chemistry. They also appeared to be having fun -together. I just learned of Kim’s firing and it sickens me. The duo represented a balanced approach to dealing with the daily grind of responsibilities and I truly was entertained during my commutes in the morning and I especially looked forward to the “celebrity round ups.” I tuned in briefly recently and Mark is struggling to keep my interest. He seems bitter and angry and it just is not FUN anymore. I bought XM and now just enjoy music – but I would give it up if Kim reunited with Mark. Do the right thing and bring Kim back!
To Brian, Mark and anyone else from KOST/Clearwater.
First, I have no doubt that Mark and the rest of the staff work very hard at their jobs. I work really hard at my job also. I get in at 8 am and leave sometimes as late as 8pm or later. The problem is I am not a DJ on the radio trying to make a morning commute more enjoyable for listeners. I am all about supporting people, but at what cost, a lousy morning commute so Mark can keep his job? Read the posts, they are true, Mark and Kim had a great chemistry and Mark alone just does not cut it. I am not denying that he isn’t trying hard but what he is trying is not working. Brian, if I was doing a service for you and was not cutting the mustard, you would move on also. And to say aside from the morning show that KOST is the same, I disagree. I stopped listening to KOST a while before Kim left. Too many commercials. I know that other stations have probably the same number of commercials but they have a way of hiding it better. One of the reasons I left is half of Mark and Kim’s show was them promoting something from a paid advertiser. I was finding it hard to distinguish what was a commercial as opposed to a real life experience. I do not like commercials. The other half of the show was them throwing out teasers for something that was going to happen after I arrived at work. Sometimes I did not have access to a radio. It was becoming too frustrating.
As far as Kim is concerned, it would be different if Kim left on her own free will. Brian, you are forgetting that Kim was let go, laid off, fired. Obviously KOST feels there is a void with her absence as they are looking for someone to replace her. If Kim/Mark are paid too much then I would suggest lowering their pay. My experience is that you do not get rid of people you need. I know others at your station were also affected and I feel bad for them. Ultimately, it is not up to the listeners to make things right for you and the others who work at your station. It is up to your management to listen to it’s audience. We are the ones that ultimately pay their check and yours. There are hundreds of posts out there from unsatisfied listeners.
I offer good luck to the people left at your station.
Wow…This was one long thread to read. I’ve been wondering for awhile what happen to Kim. Listening to Mark in the morning, while he is funny and great, missing another person on the show loses that dynamics.
It is like Bonnie and Clyde, but no Clyde. Or Three Stooges w/ Curly. It ain’t the same show after 25 years of history and building a long list of dedicated followers to KOST as the Mark and Kim show…
While this caused me to listen to KOST lesser than before now, the cut off point for me IF Karen Sharpe was to be let go. I’ve travel a lot in my days and listen to other people trying to do Love songs and dedication. Each time I listen to the radio in other states, I have to say, there can only be ONE love song channel and it has to be with Karen Sharp.
My hats off to Mark to man the fort and keep the channel running.
To Brian,
We all have had our say about the sad loss of Kim but after many months and only responses from you and Mark on her behalf I really feel betrayed. I can’t believe she can’t find the time for one…just one post to say hello and let us know she’s OK. (Believe me we would all be fine with the compensation package she received) She should
know by now how her fans feel and to totally ignore us is rude. I truly thought she would be more considerate. I’m so over the grief as I’m sure many listeners are as well. We just want to get on and find a new replacement. Who knows we might get lucky and have an even better Morning Show?
I’m still here with the Morning Show because of Mark as he is the best and I’m fortunate now to be able to hear him at lunch.
Let Kim know we want to hear from her and wish her
the very best.
I have listened to Mark & Kim for 15 years. Sorry, Mark, but without Kim, the show just isn’t the same. Unfortunately, no matter how hard the station looks to find a replacement for their “mistake”, it would be extremely difficult to find another person who would have that “chemistry” that the two of them had. The real problem with KOST is management. If they are too unaware of listeners’ needs to understand what is required to hold a good show together, I don’t think the management of KOST deserves listeners. This has nothing to do with Mark. He’s trying to salvage a huge mistake made by manageament & I’m sure it requires hard work and long hours. Management must realize they made a mistake because they are now looking for a replacement and/or attempting as I call it – “female background noise” (Stella & Claudia with a K).
The only thing that will salvage this show and the dignity of KOST is to hire Kim back.
I tune in periodically to see if I can stand to listen to the show, but cannot listen for long & must tune to other stations. Until the management eats pride, admits their mistake & Kim is back, I’ll continue listening to other radio stations.
I saw that the ratings came out a few days ago. Historically for the past 3-4 years KOST is in the top three during the end of the year because of the Christmas music being played. This year they came in 8th place.
I wonder if the ratings decline further whether or not the management will realize that they made a mistake.
Ratings and money do talk.
I miss Kim and wish as others do, that Kim would return to the 103.5 format. It is just not the same dynamic without her…(no fault of Mark’s)…Bad Mistake, Clear Channel…I will probably change stations in the near future.
Annie
I was not happy to see that Kim Amidon was no longer with the station. In my opinion Mark and Kim WERE KOST. I am glad to see that the Tuna man landed on his feet, he is also a radio icon, again, in my opinion.
Clear Channel has the right to do as they please, they own the station. I as there listener also have a right to listen or not and this includes their advertisers.
Good bye KOST….
I am a 25yr old Woman and I grew up listing to Mark and Kim every morning because it was the only show that my parents would listen to in the morning in the home and in the car. I contiuned to listen to the Mark and Kim show even after I moved out from under my parents “wing” When Kim was axed from Kost I stopped listening to Kost and went back to the music I normaly listen to “hard rock” the Mark and Kim show was the only radio show that wasn’t of the “norm” for me Im an “Manson” fan NOT a “Eric Clapton” fan, so it shows how much one person can change how some listens to their music in the morning when they dont even like the music being played on that station.
Great Job Kost and CC for axeing Kim
You lost myself and my family from listening to your programs.
Shocked is an understatement as to how I feel about Kim’s absence. Her calming and soothing voice reminded me of the time I used to live with my family and was a start to a great day. Sadly, KOST’s morning show is now broken and incomplete without Kim. Furthermore, Clear Channel does not seem to care or consider what the listeners think of their idiotic decision to let their best asset go. So I assume in addition to cutting costs, they also intended to cut off their audience. Your wish is my command. I will no longer listen to you mediocre station.
Daniela.
Lynne wrote a response to me back on April 15th, well actually to “Brian, Mark and anyone else from KOST/Clearwater”, so I felt that I should respond.
Actually it’s not Clearwater, but Clear Channel that owns our station.
Thank you for acknowledging that we’re working hard at our jobs.
I understand the normal frustrations that you’ve encountered. I wish I could change that, and or course I would LOVE to be able to give you all what you want. I’m still amazed at some of the posts here on Airchexx.com. Some are harsh and I’ll admit it hurts to read what some have written, especially when people put down Stella and Klaudia. I guess the put-downs of these two nice people could be considered collateral damage.
Still it does bother me, but it’s a free country and you can pretty much say what you want.
If only Kim wanted to do radio again, she does not and from all accounts is happy doing her own thing. We have to soldier on though and that’s what we’re doing. We now have another nice lady to work with Mark. She’s the product of a long and far reaching search and we think she’s going to do great. If some of our detractors give her a chance we think that she’ll grow on you. It’ll take time to mesh with Mark, but that’s nothing new as it took a while for Mark and Kim to fall into step with each other. I know, I was there. So if you give Kristen Cruz a chance you might just enjoy the show.
Now don’t get me wrong, it WOULD be great to have Kim back, and I never say never as I too was in her place when I was downsized in 2001, but I made it back, and you never know in the world of radio. That being said, I’m pulling for Kristen and Mark every morning.
Thank you for wishing us good luck Lynne, and I hope you’ll hold on a little longer to see what happens at the Coast! I know that Karen Sharp, Mark & Kristen, Cathi Parrish, Christine Martindale, Brien Tennis, Ted Ziegenbusch and the rest of those on staff, on and off air would really appreciate your support.
Thanks,
Bryan-KOST Afternoons
Thank you Bryan for posting. It means a lot for people here to know that you read these posts. I think all things take time. I haven’t listened to KOST on a regular basis since Kim left. I am glad that Kim is doing well and is happy and is doing what she wants to do. As in all good things – it has to come to an end. I will tune in and see if I like what I hear.
It really would be great to hear from Kim to see how she is doing … maybe someday she will post or do an interview.
Best of luck to you and continued success at Kost.
I was listening to the radio when Mark announced the sudden and unexpected departure of Kim from the show. I was shocked and angry…and felt helpless. I listen to the shows after the M& K hours, and it’s not really a reflection of Mark. As others have said, it is just not the same. It is especially disconcerting to not know the why…especially since a new person has been added. This person has a decidedly difficult place to be, because whatever she does…it’s not good enough…and her voice not pleasant to the ear. Please Kim tell us fans where you are and what’e you’re doing. The loss makes me feel sick to my stomach. God Bless, Marjie
I am very sorry that kost Has let Kim go. ( OUR YOU PEOPLE NUTS.?? KOST you are out of your mined) Do you have a brain in your head. Cut backs Cut backs. You will start to lose listeners with in time your radio station will fall mark my word.)You had a good thing going, you blew it. I love Kim she had a great voice. Kim and Mark went good together like glue for years, They were fun together. I enjoyed them both in the am on the way to work. Mark does not seem as happy as before. And whoever the new female you have she SUCKS. She trys to be like Kim. (HONEY YOU JUST DONT HAVE IT) Until Kim is back,and I dont blame her if she never comes back. Your radio station is off my radio. Done, Gone, No longer, BYE, BYE, KOST.
Kim good luck to you and your family.
It has really been bothering me that Kim hasn’t been on the air, and it was sort of a twilight zone as far as where she went. I am just not impressed by the show anymore, and it is because without Kim, there is no chemistry. I listen every once in awhile to see if she is back… it was a bad, bad move on the part of KOST. management not to renew her contract. Listen up – if it has been months, and you still have listeners missing Kim, and stating they will NOT listen and will boycott your advertisers, you need to rethink your position. Your business is all about personality & sales… GET KIM BACK!
I have started to listen to the Morning Show again. I tried several other stations but basically am waiting for the holidays to begin so I can listen to Christimas music. I miss Kim very much – what can I say? However, I feel that the show has been such a part of my life and morning routine that I missed it very much that I have decided to give it a try.
Does anyone know how Kim is doing? I am getting used to the hosts now. I really wish the best to station and hope that things go well.
Found this interesting article on Kim. Those loyal to her might be interested. I don’t listen ot Kost anymore.
http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/entertainment/columns/article_2011359.php
Thank you Lynne for posting that. I don’t think that Kim will ever come back – but it sounds like she is very happy with doing what she is doing. I wish her the best.
Dear Mark and/or Brian
As I was going back and reading all of these comments, I realized that I felt a lot of the same things when I discovered that Kim was no longer going to be on the air. I remember, as a 5-6 years old listening to Mark & Kim as my dad drove me to school. That was 20 years ago and I have been listening ever since.
I too, swore up and down that I wouldn’t listen to the morning show any more and take a stand. But the reality is, life is full of changes, and this is just another one that we will all adjust to. If in fact, Kim was unhappy then I hope she finds her calling in something that excites her. You spend most of your life at work, you should truly enjoy what you do. If the termination was against her wishes, than it’s just life’s way of helping you to take on something else. When one door closes, others open.
This morning as I listened to Mark and Kristen show, I suddenly wondered what Kim must be doing now. So I googled and found this story, which I had read last year shortly after her termination. I went back and read all of the comments and while I do feel sad that my favorite morning show is not the way it used to be, the only thing that is certain is that things change.
It’s really amazing how radio personalities can can impact our lives. These postings have been going on for just about a year now and they continue. I guess it’s like having a close friend with you day in and day out and someone else making the decision for them no longer to be with you…
Needless to say, as you pointed out Brian, the format for the rest of the day is just as it used to be and it’s nice to have some normalcy amongst all this change.
I also remember when Mark and Kim first started, it did take time for them to get into a groove, Mark and Kristen will get there…
I hope if either Mark or Brian checks this again, they will let Kim know that she has many well wishers out there and that we are eager to know how she is doing, whether it be via myspace or even through a comment on this article.
All the Best,
Sanika
sorry Bryan- I misspelled your name…
Sanika
I have been wondering for quite a while about what had happend to Kim. Thank you, Lynn, for the link to the OC Register’s article. It is good to know that Kim is doing well and that she is focusing on making a difference in a world that is in great need of people who will stand up to the companies, like Clearchannel, that promote inequality when it comes to age and gender. I have missed hearing Kim’s calming voice. She had a marvelous way of balancing Mark’s energy. They were a great team. I have listened to KOST for years, but this year without Kim has made me turn more often to other stations. Obviously, it was terrible judgement on Clearchannel’s part to let Kim go. I guess they didn’t realize what an impact it would have for the loyal listeners of the Mark and Kim Show. I wish Mark and his new co-host all the best, and I wish that whoever is making these decisions at Clearchannel would get a clue and give women equal pay. By the way, enough with the Hollywood Round Up baddies. Let’s hear about some of the good things celebrities are involved in. We need some uplifting voices in the media these days.
Please reconsider bringing Kim Amadon back. The show is not the same without her. We have tried to listen but can’t make the ajustment to the differences. We have been listening to Mark and the other girl but it’s not good. We are going to start listening to talk radio. We really miss THE MARK AND KIM SHOW. Please reconsider….Natalie & AL
i think that the people of Clear Channel who fired Kim Amidon, Mike Sackellarides, Mike Nolan are going to regret that they did what they did. these people are good people and theyre the ones who keep us awake in the mornings. theyre are the ones who got us to enjoy listening to kost 103.5 the reason why you fired kim was because Kristin offered a lower salary is just bullshit. i think u should think before u take action seriously. i am going to STOP listening to KOST 103.5 now and i will tell everyone i know to stop listening too. it is such a shame that you people of CLEAR CHANNEL rather think about making more money than think about capturing people’s hearts.
I no longer listen to kost. I used to listen to it every morninig on my way to work, not anymore. I cant stand the voice of the person replacing KIM. It just doesn’t work for me.
This is post #199 on the topic of Kim Amidon. I find it amazing that a year after her firing, people are still angry about it. Perhaps you listeners do have a right to be angry, but I’d ask all of you to read the OC REGISTER article that Lynne posted back in October (http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/entertainment/columns/article_2011359.php). Kim says she’s happy to be away from radio. Well, I can certainly understand that. Your webmaster ended his career last February. I really DON’T miss it, even though radio was all I wanted to do since I was 16. Gang, radio is not the same from a business perspective as it was even 10 years ago, although thats when the real change in attitude began.
What you all must understand is that perhaps more than most industries, radio broadcasting is hurt by a slow economy and rising costs especially now that the stock market has tanked. Advertising dollars are hard to get, investors are screaming for a lower bottom line and this coupled with continued consolidation of radio companies means there are fewer on air jobs and less pay to go around. You wouldn’t believe how many good radio people are out of work these days.
I would ask that people stop with the disparaging comments abut Mark Wallengren. We’ve had to delete a few of the comments because they were profanity filled, and we don’t want that on this site, and there’s no place for inappropriate behavior here. There’s also no reason why people should disrespect Mark. I posted something similar about 6 months ago and I guess nobody read it.
Lastly, thanks to you listeners who posted comments here, a google search for KOST finds this aircheck here on Airchexx.com at #3 in the rankings, right behind KOST 103.5’s official website. We’ve become the de-facto place for people to come discuss KOST, and we thank you for coming.
If anyone out there has an aircheck of Mark & Kim, or of KOST in general, please email steve@airchexx.com and I’ll make sure it appears on the site with generous credit to the contributor. Thanks in advance!
Everyone have a great day and enjoy the rest of Airchexx.com!
Steve West
I guess that makes me comment number 200. Thanks Steve for your great insight. I too think it is unfair for people to blame the radio personalities for decisions that the company is forced to make. I don’t think there is anyone that likes change. Kim had a wonderful run on the air. Maybe she is happy to retire…maybe not. However, being on air for that long on a morning show in LA is a wonderful honor. She was the first woman in LA radio to have her name on a morning show. She broke down a lot of doors for woman in radio.
With change there also is opportunity. Someone has had to take over once kim left. I just want to say I think Kristin has been very gracious in what must be a very hard position to come into. She has done a wonderful job. She isn’t Kim…but she is someone that has a wonderful opportunity because of what Kim did for woman in radio. I have read a few interviews of her and she is quick to say she isn’t trying to replace kim because that would be impossible. She even talks about growing up in LA and being a fan of the Mark and Kim show. It would be impossible to find a person to replace kim. But I think KOST did a pretty good job finding someone to begin a new era for the KOST morning show.
Kristin, I’m rooting to you. You’re doing a good job and I enjoy listening to you each morning.