Cumulus Lawsuit Clear

Cumulus Broadcasting’s lawsuit against Clear Channel Communications is a sign that media outlets other than daily newspapers are also having a war in Northwest Arkansas.

On Monday, Sept. 30, at 1:30 p.m. the two sides will be heard in front of Washington County Judge William Storey regarding Cumulus’ request for a temporary restraining order against Clear Channel for the use of disc jockey J.R. Law’s voice on KKIX-FM.

Law worked for Cumulus’ KFAY-FM for about 18 months, but left the station citing it did not live up to its promises. Law had signed a non-compete agreement with Cumulus that stated he could not be employed by a radio station in Northwest Arkansas for six months after leaving Cumulus.

Law left KFAY about a month ago to work for Fort Smith’s KMAG-FM, another Clear Channel station. But his voice is occasionally broadcast on KKIX also, and that’s what Cumulus is upset about.

Tony Beringer, vice president and market manager at Clear Channel in Fayetteville, said, “KKIX is merely a product of a network. He is not employed up here. [Cumulus] is trying to prevent him from earning a living and feeding his family.”