Media Matters: ABC Memo Reveals AAR Advertiser Blacklist

[Edgewater_Joe]

An internal ABC Radio Networks memo obtained by Media Matters for America, originally from a listener to The Peter B. Collins Show, indicates that nearly 100 ABC advertisers insist that their commercials be blacked out on Air America Radio affiliates. According to the memo, the adverstisers insist that "NONE of their commercials air during AIR AMERICA programming." Among the advertisers listed are Bank of America, Exxon Mobil, Federal Express, General Electric, McDonald's, Microsoft, Wal-Mart, and the U.S. Navy.

(Scanned memo at link.)

http://mediamatters.org/items/200610310008

[acmavm]

1. Criminals, tax evaders, and scum one and all.

[anotherdrew]

74. Well, I'm already boycotting all the piece of shit corporations anyway

screw them, I hope their shitty corps go bankrupt

[mom cat]

91. I think that I am too, but I can't read the whole list. Does anyone have a link

to the whole list?

[Laurab]

103. If you click on the link, to the left you can click and make the list bigger

I don't know if you already did that or not, but I could make them all out.

[mom cat]

114. Thanks. I just found another post that spelled them all out:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=364x2527944

[KittyWampus]

2. someone in GD wondered the subset of co's that won't advertise on AAR but will

allow ads on right wing radio.

[Laurab]

104. I wondered that, too

there might be a reasonable explanation for some of them, like not wanting to be affiliated with either one. I was kind of surprised by Microsoft, and a few others.

GE is on the list, and they're one of the top warmongering profit-makers, so that's not surprising, but I'd like to see a list of co's that won't advertise on RW shows, too. Especially the hate-mongering ones....well, I think they're all kind of hate mongering, but the most blatant, like rush limpball.

[Nickster]

3. Because they want to starve out AAR. If AAR can't get any ad dollars, then

they might not make it. The incompetent managment doesn't help things either.

[tridim]

That's illegal, right?

If not, it should be since it's possible for a large corporate advertiser with a political agenda to destroy a media outlet they don't agree with.

I'm guessing this blacklist is just one of many.

[daleo]

5. It seems like it would fall under restraint of trade

Or some such category of monopoly practice.

[rinsd]

19. How so?

Why would one be required to provide ad revenue for shows they do not wish to be associated with?

How is it restraint of trade to decline to advertise on a given network for a particular show?

Again, boycott the companies, let them know their decision is wrong but this practice is legal.

[daleo]

53. I think it is the maintenance of a list and the implied collusion

Deciding independently not to do something is ok, but once there is collusion (e.g. a list) that begins to look like a monopoly practice. Suppose a bunch of computer companies got together and said they wouldn't buy hard drives from Company X, for example, to drive them out of business. I don't think a consumer boycott is the same, because consumers don't usually have a conflict of interest.

All that being said, I guess the law is whatever a police force decides to enforce and whatever a judge decides to convict. The above is just my layman's opinion.

[rinsd]

54. You are mixing apples and oranges

The maintaining of a list by the networks is not necessarily an example of collusion.

You would be a poor business if you did not keep track of your advertisers wishes.

"Suppose a bunch of computer companies got together and said they wouldn't buy hard drives from Company X, for example, to drive them out of business."

That would be collusion. Still difficult to prove but you could act on it legally

"I don't think a consumer boycott is the same, because consumers don't usually have a conflict of interest."

But this is in essence a consumer boycott with no apparent organization. The companies are the consumers in this case. And even that is a shaky premise because a boycott implies organization which we have no proof of.

The thing I do suspect is that these companies for the most part do not advertise on political shows to avoid the various boycotts that creep up from time to time on both sides. Seriously why deal with angry phone calls from people because of the station you advertise on? What is the benefit of that?

[daleo]

55. I guess it depends if the companies on the list have seen the list

If it was an internal list at ABC, that would presumably just be a management tool ("remember not to air commercials by these companies who have requested that they not be on political shows"). If the companies got together to create the list ("lets all refuse to buy time on these shows, because they are highly political in a way we don't like") that would be another story, in my opinion.

It is notoriously difficult to prove this sort of thing, though, especially when the government itself is ideologically opposed to the radio network.

I don't agree that companies should be considered consumers in the sense of a consumer boycott. It would give them unlimited cover to collaborate and drive competitors out of business.

I doubt if you would ever see an anti-trust action undertaken by the Bush administration, regardless of the circumstances.

[rinsd]

58. Response

"If it was an internal list at ABC, that would presumably just be a management tool ("remember not to air commercials by these companies who have requested that they not be on political shows")."

That is what appears to be on its surface.

"If the companies got together to create the list ("lets all refuse to buy time on these shows, because they are highly political in a way we don't like") that would be another story, in my opinion."

I think it would be as well but the disparate nature of these companies and their fields makes that highly unlikely.

"It is notoriously difficult to prove this sort of thing, though, especially when the government itself is ideologically opposed to the radio network."

Very difficult.


"I don't agree that companies should be considered consumers in the sense of a consumer boycott. It would give them unlimited cover to collaborate and drive competitors out of business"

I agree with that but businesses can indeed be consumers. They just do not have the power to organize in such a fashion to boycott.

"I doubt if you would ever see an anti-trust action undertaken by the Bush administration, regardless of the circumstances."

How would you pursue anti-trust action and against whom would you do so?

[daleo]

67. The last comment was completely general

I really meant that I doubt you would ever see any anti-trust action by the Bush government under any circumstances whatsoever (leaving aside this example entirely).

[gaspee]

70. Good case in point...

Microsoft. Funny how the big anti-trust suit agasint microsoft back in in the late 90's, that the government won and was going to BREAK UP microsoft into different divisions, completely disappeared when the idiot son was appointed king.

Funny how that works, isn't it?

Always follow the money. Forget the religious wrong, forget the exagerated social divisions, FOLLOW THE MONEY!

[kestrel91316]

37. Any attorneys out there who care to weigh in on this?

[rinsd]

15. In what way could it possible be illegal?

Where is the right that one must have access to ad revenue?

By all means. boycott these companies and let them know your frustration with their decision but what thye have done is perfectly legal.

[tridim]

30. AAR salesperson calls an advertiser..

Advertiser says, "We'd love to advertise on AAR, but AAR is on a corporate blacklist, we can't advertise with you because of your progressive views".

Limpballs salesperson calls an advertiser.
Advertiser says, "Sure we'll advertise on your show! Where do we send the money?"

Again, how and why is that not illegal? At the very least it's horribly unfair.

Edit: Replace "AAR" with "Minority owned radio station" and it makes perfect sense.

[rinsd]

45. But your example is not what is happening

Your example would be a restraint of free trade.

At this point all we have are advertisers who have chosen not to advertise on AAR shows while purchasing a larger ad package. I am sure this is done with other shows like Howard Stern where the advertisier is not comfortable with the subject material.

To make a case for an actual blacklist and your example, you would have to prove that they acted in collusion to not advertise on AAR. To be honest, I doubt that is what happened.

If the advertiser said "we do not wish to advertise on your network because we are uncomfortable with your political views" that would be perfectly legal.

For instance take an example of internet advertising. Because I use google for advetising, should I also be required to use Microsoft's product? Even if I have some issues with Microsoft as a company?

Or another, should a blue company that does not wish to advertise on Rush be forced to do so because they signed a deal with Clear Channel for ad space?

"Edit: Replace "AAR" with "Minority owned radio station" and it makes perfect sense."

In a bigotry sense and again if the advertisers colluded, there would be problems. But saying that you do not wish to advertise on say a radio station that deals mostly with hi-hop, you would be a douche but as far as I know not in legal jeopardy.

What should be done is a letter should be composed with Randi and Al's ratings and sent to these companies explaining that it is the height of marketing stupidity to ignore a potential market just because you do not agree with the polticial views of the network that this market listens to.

[RaleighNCDUer]

81. You'd have to look to intent, I think.

If there were memos out there to the effect of "if enough of us deny them ad revenue, they will go under and we can destroy them and their message" then that would have a different intent than individual businesses trying to avoid controversial or perceived negative venues that could hurt their bottom line.

Frankly, I would think they would be leery of progressive radio because, IMO, progressives tend to be less susceptible to advertising that the general, non-thinking public. Progressives are aware of the message and the media, and don't tend to have the Pavlovian resoponse that advertisers like. Therefore, it wouldn't surprise me if they wanted to see AAR go under, so those airwave blocks could be populated by more corporate-friendly shows.

[tblue]

4. OK here's what we're gonna do. Post here ALL the AAR & affiliate advertisers

and we're gonna support them and let them know why.

On my local affiliate, we have

Ovaltine
Oreck vacuums
Sleep Number beds
Volkswagen

I'll think of more.

[Hepburn]

7. How freaking ironic...

...the makers of the "people's car" won't allow its commericals on the AAR. :eyes:

[ArbustoBuster]

12. I think tblue is saying...

...that Volkswagon does support AAR, not that they're keeping their commercials off AAR.

[NJCher]

14. correct me if I'm wrong

But isn't the poster saying VW airs on Air America?

Cher

[tblue]

16. NO NO! VW advertises on my station! Support them!

I'll seriously consider them next time I buy a car.

[mntleo2]

96. VW Advertises on Seattle's AAR Station Too n/t

Cat In Seattle

[Supersedeas]

29. sickening

[rfranklin]

62. Well, that was Hitler's idea for the Beetle....

It's origins are in the Nazi era. Though it did prove to be a great idea.

[Hepburn]

115. Looks like I misunderstood the info about VW...

...sorry...and thanks for setting me straight. Please excuse the Senior Moment I was having!

:hi:

Edit for typo ~~ another Senior Moment!

[Hugin]

23. The U.S. Army...

More specifically the "Stay in school program".

[eridani]

87. That vacuum sounds pretty good

Too bad my husband picked up a new one 3 years ago. I'll keep it in mind if ours breaks down.

[Cassandra]

6. I have always wondered why AAR had such a tiny list of ...

national advertisers. Since I don't usually listen to other radio stations, I didn't know exactly how it differed but since I've been tuning into ESPN radio when Keith is on, I have noticed the difference. Admittedly I'm not the normally desiable audience for the ads on a sports channel but you would think that some national advertisers would be interested in an educated audience. I guess profit is not all.

[Up2Late]

8. Why doesn't this surprise me?

Yet, do you think that AA listeners would have wanted to hear those commercial during one of their programs. I doubt it.

[Tarheel_Dem]

9. I can't believe Microsoft is on the list......

and Bank of America? Okay, what can we do about this? I bank with B.O.A.(credit card, checking, savings); I eat at Mickey Dee's; and I use FedEx quite frequently.

If they're trying to drive AAR from the airwaves, there has to be something we can do. I have a feeling that rightwing organizations have threatened these corporations to the point that they may be afraid to risk a boycott. I hope the hosts on AAR talk about this to their audiences.

[cui bono]

17. Well I'm no angel either but...

you shouldn't eat at Mickey D's for sooooo many reasons, not the least of which is your health and your taste buds! Does that stuff even qualify as food? :p

[Tarheel_Dem]

28. Been hooked on the special sauce for years......

It's the closest thing to the office other than Burger King (service really sucks). But I'll definitely have to reconsider.

[Cobalt Violet]

39. I bank at BoA.

I wrote them and told them they better have a good explaination. I will end all my accounts/credit cards.

[Chemical Bill]

46. Don't support any big national banks.

Put your money in a local bank or credit union.

Bill

[mntleo2]

98. Yeah I Use A Credit Union

...they are better anyway.

Cat In Seattle

[april]

90. I closed my account w BOA

I realized that they replaced the ATM w/ Diebold..told them that Diebold could not count the votes right how could they keep the money correctly!

[saracat]

10. Hmm, I have heard Walmart advertise on our local affiliate.I am certain of it because

I thought it was odd!

[skypilot]

11. kick

:kick:

[onehandle]

13. The Anti-Free Media Corporations that Blacklisted AAR.

Good for them.

Go back to Russia!

[corkhead]

18. Perfect, my new boycott list all in one convenient place

evil rotten bastards.:mad:

[Cult]

20. Pity, I liked some of these companies.

Well, no matter. I can avoid them from now on. Thank god Apple Computer isn't on that list, I'd have to shoot myself....

-E!

[qnr]

59. Well, as far as that goes, it would be interesting to see which ones do not

advertise on political shows/networks. It might not be strictly anti-AAR, if people are contemplating avoiding them.

[fasttense]

21. Well now I have to stop shopping at JC Penny and not eat at McDs

I will blacklist all those companies myself. And I will tell all my friends and family to not buy their products. It will be difficult but I like K-Mart better.

What is up with the US Navy? I gave them a good twenty years of my life. I think I will write the head of Recruiting.

Now I have to get rid of my HP printer and cancel my order for a dell laptop.

[cosmicdot]

51. speaking of JCPenney

posted at DU


OCTOBER 24, 2006


CONTACT: National Labor Committee


Child Labor Is Back: Children Again Sewing Clothing for Wal-Mart,
Hanes and Other U.S. Companies


NEW YORK - October 24 - The following was released today by the
National Labor Committee (NLC) on child labor:


An estimated 200 children, some 11 years old or even younger, are
sewing clothing for Hanes, Wal-Mart, J.C. Penney and Puma at the
Harvest Rich factory in Bangladesh.

The children report being routinely slapped and beaten, sometimes
falling down from exhaustion, forced to work 12 to 14 hours a day,
even some all-night, 19- to 20-hour shifts, often seven days a week,
for wages as low as 6 and a half cents an hour. The wages are so
wretchedly low that many of the child workers get up at 5 a.m. each
morning to brush their teeth using just their finger and ashes from
the fire, since they cannot afford a toothbrush or toothpaste.

The workers say that if they could earn just 36 cents an hour, they
could climb out of misery and into poverty, where they could live with
a modicum of decency.

In the month of September, the children had just one day off, and
before clothing shipments had to leave for the U.S., the workers were
often kept at the factory 95 to 110 hours a week. After being forced
to work a grueling all-night 19- to 20-hour shift, from 8 a.m. to 3 or
4 a.m. the following day, the children sleep on the factory floor for
two or three hours before being woken to start their next shift at 8
a.m. that same morning.

The child workers are beaten for falling behind in their production
goal, making mistakes or taking too long in the bathroom (which is
filthy, lacking even toilet paper, soap or towels).


~snip~

http://www.commondreams.org/news2006/1024-01.htm

[Cult]

22. I'm starting to write letters now.

Starting with the CEO of Hewlett-Packard.

http://www.hp.com/hpinfo/execteam/email/hurd/index.html

-E!

(edited to show my little note)

Dear Mr. Hurd

My name is Evan Davis, I've used HP devices for many years now, and have been impressed by the excellent quality of each. However, I must notify you that I am withdrawing all support for your company, as I have received a memo regarding the Air America advertising blackout.

Mr. Hurd, it's a shame that my buisness with your company should end this way, but I feel that these actions of your company are reprehensible. Buisness should not be political, and since HP has deemed it necessary to show their political beliefs this way, I feel I shall respond in kind.

Thank you for your time.

Evan Davis

[Tarheel_Dem]

31. good letter.....

:thumbsup:

[qnr]

60. It's a good one, but maybe that is their point. "business isn't political" - AAR is

unabashedly political. Do they advertise on political programs on other networks? I don't watch much TV or listen to much radio, so I don't have firsthand knowledge.

[Laurab]

105. I agree, even if no one else does

I'd find out first if they allow advertising on RW radio programs of similar natures, although I don't know if there are any, as I've never listened to a RW radio show. The ones I know about seem to be hate-mongering shows, and AAR is more of a reality-based, fact-based show, although it can become a little heated, it is not hate-mongering (Rush comes to mine).

If they just want to stay out of political ideologies, that's one thing, if they're actually boycotting AAR, that's quite another.

[cui bono]

24. Well we should write to ABC and those sponsors to let them know

we will boycott them for this practice. ABC could stnad up to them and say fine, then we don't take your ads at all, but I know that's just a pipe dream.

Damn, B of A just took over MBNA so now I have credit cards with them. :(

[cui bono]

25. I just notice the Navy is on there... can't have those damn libruls in the military!

Isn't the military supposed to not play politics? That one might be illegal... not that I want to listen to recruiting ads, just sayin'.

[jhuth at work]

26. This should be headline news! It is completely McCartyistic and wrong.

You bet I'll be sending e-mails to every company on that list.


Someone (I'm at work) should call the phone number on the memo.

[The Wielding Truth]

80. 212-735-1139 Hello,Nicole Lopezena? I have a question.

[gully]

27. A new and exciting form of McCarthyism?

How interesting. Fuckers!

[Kolesar]

32. We ought pick Microsoft as a "strike target" & buy OpenWindows

instead of their Office (R) suite of applications. Office is Microsoft's cash cow.

[Occulus]

73. Or you could

download linux.

[Cult]

110. Or...

Get a mac! I'm biased, though. I have the Apple logo tatooed on my left inner arm. And the on button on my right. I'm a geek!

-E!

[NewJeffCT]

112. It would be better to start with a small to mid-sized one

If you can effect a small to mid-sized company, you can gain momemtum and use it as an example/threat against a bigger company. "We forced this company with $500 million in revenue to change their ways. It's only a few more consumers we have to add to our list to affect your billion dollar company."

[Kolesar]

120. That was insightful and well considered

:hi:

[denverbill]

33. Is there a corresponding list for right-wing shows?

This wouldn't bother me if these companies also refused to advertise on Rush, Hannity, Savage, or the other right-wing shithead shows. I can understand a company not wanting to piss off either side, but if these guys are only boycotting AAR, that's a whole nuther story.

[LordLovesAWorkingMan]

63. There probably is.

It's sad that people are getting their panties in a bunch over this, but AAR is political and some corporations don't want to associate themselves with either end of the political spectrum.

Keep in mind that just because GE doesn't want to advertise on AAR, it doesn't mean that employees of GE don't listen to (and support) AAR!

We just got a look behind the sofa...no big deal, in my opinion.

[kath]

79. well, I'd be willing to bet that a lot of them are perfectly happy to advertise

on right wing hate radio. I wish we could find a list...

Here's a job for those with strong stomachs -- listen to Rush and other hate shows and write down who advertises there.

[jhain]

34. The Navy!!??

Good- that much less manipulative recruiting shit on the airwaves.

At least until next week. This will ALL change next Wednesday , of course.

[MamaBear]

35. Interesting that eHarmony is on the list.

It has spots running on the flagship station as of last evening; I heard one on the Rachel Maddow Show.

Perhaps this memo is BS?

[NYCGirl]

119. I've heard eHarmony ads on NYC's AAR all the time!

:shrug:

[ItsTheMediaStupid]

36. Is there a readable list posted anywhere?

I can't see the scanned list well enough to help me very much.

Edited for grammar.

[LiberalFighter]

108. Transposed list

Allstate
American Heart Association
Aventis
Avon (all brands)
Benix of America?
Bayer (All Products)
BMW Motorcycles
Carrier?
Chattam - Capsasin
Chattam - Gold Bond 1st Aid
Chattam - Gold Bond Foot Spray
Chattam - Phisoderm
Chattam - Selsun Salon
Chattam - Ultimate Heating Lotion
Cigne
Cingular
Clorox
Coke
Coty
Dean's Morningstar Foods
Dell
Denny's
Discovery Channel
EHarmony.com
Epson
Expedia.com
Exxon Mobil
Farmers Insurance
FedEx
Foot Action
Frito-Lay
GE
Gillete Venus
Goodyear
Heinekin/Amstel Light
Hershey's
Hewlett Packard
Home Depot
Hormel
Hyatt
Interstate Batteries
J C Penney
Johnson & Johnson (all brands)
Kohl's
Kraft Foods (all brands)
Levi's
Masterfoods USA (all brands)
McDonald's
Merial Frontline?
MGM
Michelin
Microsoft
Morningstar
National Cattleman's Beef
Nestle
Nissan
NYSE
Office Depot
Outdoor Life Network
P&G - Bounty
P&G - Febreeze
P&G - Iams Dog/Cat Foods
P&G - Pepto Bismo
Paramount (all)
Pepsi
Philip Morris
Pier 1 Imports
Red Lobster
Re/Max
REI Sporting Goods
Rent-way
Robert Hall
Schering Plough ESPYs
Schering Plough Tinactin
Sherwin Williams
Sony
State Farm
Toys R Us
Travelocity.com
True Value
United Healthcare
US Navy
USPS
Visa
Walgreens
Wal-Mart
Welch's
Wrigley
Wyeth

Lastly

Hewlett Packard

[kestrel91316]

38. (kestrel happily notes that Honda and Toyota are not on the list)

[aquart]

40. USPS??? United States Postal Service????????

Well, how petty are they?

McDonald's?

Frito-Lay is a Texas company.

I really need to see this list typed out, but I can't read all the names.

[sshan2525]

41. I will never spend another fucking nickel...............

at any of these companies. I will, however, tell as many people as I can and advise them not to patronize them. This could backfire on them big time if enough of us do this.

[Pab Sungenis]

42. I'm not sure, but

...most of those used to insist that they not be included in Limbaugh, Savage, or Ken Hamblin when I was at WOND.

I know McDonald's and Microsoft both had that order. Exxon/Mobil, BoA, FedEx, GE, and Wal-Mart never advertised with us while I was there.

[Qutzupalotl]

49. That puts this in better perspective.

I think some companies just don't want to be associated with anything controversial, whether that controversy is warranted or not.

Oreck, on the other hand, advertised on Limbaugh as well as AAR--playing both sides. I don't have a problem with that.

Welch's advertised on Limbaugh but NOT on AAR. That's not cool. Especially since their juice is so delicious.

[xxqqqzme]

125. Figures the guy who started welch's - Robert Welch

founded the john birch society right here in Orange County - one of the reason's Unca Walt put DisneyLand here - he & welch were buddies.

I'm surprised @ Morningstar & REI - who do they think buys their products?

[KansDem]

43. Usual suspects...

Bank of America, Exxon Mobil, Federal Express, General Electric, McDonald's, Microsoft, Wal-Mart, and the U.S. Navy.

The neo-con fascist agenda is alive and well...just not on AAR.

[progressoid]

44. The Discovery Channel, Pepsi, Microsoft....sheesh - cowards

[musiclawyer]

47. Get this to Keith O

[Edgewater_Joe]

48. Randi Could Be Fun Today!

And Brock's on with Franken tomorrow.

Think this'll be a topic?

[ramapo]

50. Outrage

Absolutely an outrage. Unf-ingbelievable.

[LordLovesAWorkingMan]

64. Why is this an outrage?

You have the right to guide your money wherever you want...why shouldn't corporations have the same right?

I don't see it. If they had an explicitly right-wing agenda, it would be one thing, but it looks like they don't want to appear political.

[Karla Marx]

52. My AAR affiliate is advertising an upcoming Dennis Miller comedy show...

...I guess they'll take money from anyone. Can't see too many AAR fans attending a Dennis Miller show. And I listen to WWRL in NYC.

[loves_dulcinea]

123. i would attend

to heckle.

[cosmicdot]

56. any advertise on politicians and/or political parties ...

but, not AAR?

to play-on Bill Clinton's 'it's the economy, stupid' ...

it's the corporatism which is at the root of so many issues








This post was sponsored by © ™ ® $ ¢, Incorporated.

[cobalt1999]

57. I need more information before going off half-cocked...

It sounds like these are just advertisers that already determined the audience/cost ratio wasn't worth it?

I could see Wal-mart and the Navy saying the cost and the lack of a favorable audience saying "we won't get our dollars worth advertising on AAR". That I understand. They are not in the business to provide charity, they just determining where to spend their advertising dollars in the most efficient way.

[qnr]

61. I agree. I personally don't see this so so much as an anti-AAR issue as one

of avoiding politics, and watching the bottom line.

[cobalt1999]

68. I doubt it's some nefarious plot to drive AAR out of business too.

My questions would be:

Do they advertise on RW radio shows?
If so, what are demographics and cost ratio comparison between AAR and RW radio?

IF AAR provides a better cost/potential consumer ratio and the advertisers STILL don't advertise, THEN get upset. However, I'm not starting any half baked boycotts based on the limited data provided.

[depakid]

69. Well, REI equipment is on that list

Do you think for one minute that the audience/cost ratio isn't worth it for that demographic?

Do you think for one minute that politics on the left would be of a concern for a company that promotes environmentalism?

No, this is ABC radio engaging in unfair business practices. I hope they get nailed for it- and I hope that if the Dems ever regain power, they'll use this as evidence to support breaking up the media conglomerates.

[cobalt1999]

71. I don't know.

Maybe there is a demographic but that's only half the equation...What is the cost? AAR may have the demographic but in what numbers and what is the cost/person? I don't know and the article didn't say.

How do you come to the conclusion ABC is engaging in unfair business practices? There isn't any real information in the link.

Maybe it's the logical scientist in me, but I certainly can't come to ANY conclusion. Most businesses would advertise on the Osama Bin Laden network if it would increase sales, so I don't see them avoiding AAR if there was a favorable cost/benefit.

Hey, I could be wrong, but there is going to have to be more data to prove it one way or another.

[yurbud]

121. at the very least, decouple media from other industries

one of the world's largest defense contractors shouldn't own the airwaves.

[bpeale]

116. personally ...

the companies on this list are known scumbags. why would you give them credit for being fair minded? i see this as their version of starving AAR out of business because that's just the kind of people they are. i won't spend my money with these jerks. you can if you want to.

[LTR]

65. There was a thread on this a few days ago, following Collins' show

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=364&topic_id=2501556

There's a link to the show there (White Rose Society has it).

I also did an edit, featuring just the segment:

http://z31.zupload.com/download.php?file=getfile&filepath=369

Also interesting to not that some of these advertisers do in fact sponsor Ed Schultz' show, so perhaps it's just an anti-AAR bias:

http://ltradio.blogspot.com/2006/10/internal-document-reveals-air-america.html

[mconvente]

66. If this isn't truth that all corporations are greedy reTHUGlican motherfuckers...

Then I don't know what else will suffice. What happened to all their bullshit about "we don't take a stand about the content of shows we advertise on" when we complained 2 years ago abuot advertisers on Clear Channel and right-wing talk radio. But, looksie here, we have exactly that - except they don't want to advertise on progressive radio. Yeah, nice... Fucking assholes.

[BulletproofLandshark]

72. I guess they don't advertise on progressive radio because

they don't want progressives to spend money on their products.

Duly noted.

[Evergreen Emerald]

75. I called several people at Bank of America

No one seems to know, but they will "get back to me." I don't expect much. I also sent a couple of letters to the media relations nationally and regionally.

[Evergreen Emerald]

89. I got a response from Bank of America:

"We appreciate you for bringing your business to Bank of America. As it relates to the story you brought to our attention, the company has not participated in nor can it authenticate the memo referenced on the Media Matters in America website. Furthermore, we do not buy national radio advertising, accept on XM Satellite Radio because of its baseball coverage and our sponsorship of Major League Baseball.

We hope this clears up any confusion, and we hope you continue to allow us to earn your business."

[darkism]

76. Kohl's? As in...

...Herb Kohl, the senior senator from Wisconsin?

The senior DEMOCRATIC senator from Wisconsin?

I'm with LordLovesAWorkingMan - some companies on this list are on there because they don't want to appear political. I'm not vested in this debate enough to do the research myself, but how many of these companies DO advertise during Rush or other conservative hate radio?

(And yes, before anyone mentions it, I realize that Kohl's is rated red by BuyBlue.org. Notice how much they (more accurately, one of the executives) gave - 2000 freaking dollars. Big deal - it doesn't mean they're a right-wing machine.)

[NewJeffCT]

113. Those "buy blue" lists are very deceptive

I think I remember seeing Wal-Mart as like 80% red and 20% blue with a total of like $100,000 in political donations. So, one might think, "oh, Wal-Mart is not that bad!"

However, behind the scenes, you have the multi-billion dollar Walton Foundation that gives a cool $100 million or so per year to various Right Wing causes. That does not show up on the lists because it is not a direct political donation.

The same with Richard Mellon Scaife. He donated money to Lieberman (and I'm guessing a few other "moderate" Dems) so he can claim he is bipartisan. But, behind the scenes, his Scaife Foundation has donated hundreds of millions over the past 30 years to Right Wing causes and think tanks.

[kaygore]

77. Why even bother to get worked up--We don't boycott

that's why these companies do this. Republicans do boycott and hold firm.

Look at how we got our panties in a bunch over ABC/Disney and "Path to 9/11" but we didn't carry any boycott out. Sure we had a lot of excuses, but we lack the will. At last we could have boycotted ABC's new shows if we were hooked on Lost, Gray's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives and the like. But, nooooo....we are a group who can rationalize anything.

At least the Republicans carry through on their threats.

Corporate America just laughs at us when we get all worked up over things they do. We are all thalk and no fangs.

[treestar]

78. Fascinating, why do these companies care?

Do they really think they are going to get hurt in the business sense if they advertise on AAR? Do they suppose freepers listen to AAR to see who advertises and then boycott them? They've got to be kidding or there must be another reason. McDonald's would never lose money for advertising on AAR. They would only extend their advertising to liberals, too. There is no reason a company like that can't advertise on both liberal and RW stations/programs. Do they really suppose they can be hurt economically by the freepers boycotting them?

Disney allows benefits to gay employee partners and the freepers haven't shut them down yet.

[niceypoo]

82. I bank with bank of america...

...if this is true then I bank with bank of america no longer (with a long nasty explaination letter).

[bagrman]

97. NEED A BETTER COPY TO WORK FROM

SOMEONE GET A BETTER SCAN OR COPY TO USE AS OUR DON'T BUY FROM LIST.

LATR
BAGRMAN

[OnionPatch]

83. Well, is anyone organizing a boycott?

Because I think one is called for here IF these same companies do advertise on Rush Limbaugh's show or Shawn Hannity's, etc.

Whether or not it's legal is not the question. The question is, are they purposely supporting right-wing radio with their advertising but not the other side? If so, I will never buy from them again, and will let them know regardless of whether or not anyone else boycotts. But I have been looking and hoping that someone will put together an online petition to sign and send to these companies. If I had a web page and the expertise, I'd do it myself, but I don't. :(

Anyone who thinks radio doesn't matter is kidding themselves. I mentioned in threads before that the reason our local AAR affiliate stopped airing AAR programming was because they could not get any ad revenue for those slots! In effect, our views are being censored from the public in this way. :mad:

[Melynn]

84. Somewhere Joe McCarthy is smiling

No wonder Air America has had money problems. I wonder if these companies were pressured by the administration.

[don954]

85. thank you right wingers! youve compiled yourselves into a very

convent list for ready boycotting! thanks! wish all right wingers made it this easy!

[MsMagnificent]

86. Are there any who boycott RW stations?

Conversely, I sure would support those companies! Two can play this game, y'know...

On edit: that list makes a nice little write-them-a-letter and boycott sheet.

[mom cat]

88. That is as good a list to start a boucott list as I have seen lately!

K&R and bookmarked and downloaded!

[davidlynch]

92. Fuck Them! This Is Now My "Don't Buy From" List

I swear I'll avoid their products and services like the plague.

[wholetruth00]

93. Can't wait to pay off my BOA credit card. Going topay off fast!

I don't buy Exxon Mobil, never use Federal Express, or Wal-Mart. Will stop buying mcDonald's and wish to hell that I had not bought any Microsoft products. Going to get a loptop but will go Apple all the way.

[kb9vrg]

94. My letters are out

I looked through the list and sent letters along the following lines to most of the folks here:

Tuesday, October 31, 2006

To: Andy House, Chief Marketing Officer
Sony Corporation of America
550 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10022

From: Me
Address Redacted


Re: Air America Advertising Blackout

Mr. House:

I’m a proud owner of several pieces of Sony equipment: two televisions, a DVD player, a stereo receiver, three MiniDisc units, a CD walkman, an AM/FM walkman, astereo cassette recorder, and a VCR. I’ve always appreciated the quality of your products and as a recognized resource for technology information in my family have always recommended your products over those of your competitors.

Unfortunately, I’d like to let you know that I am no longer recommending your products to my family, friends, and co-workers. You see, Mr. House, I’m also an avid progressive and supporter of Air America Radio. Truthfully, much of the programming I listen to on a daily basis is from Air America.

As you may know, there was an ABC Radio Networks memo that was widely circulated on the internet dated October 25, 2006 indicating that your company did not wish to have its commercials aired on any Air America affiliate. I have attached a copy of the letter for your reference.

Perhaps it’s because you don’t wish to appear political, and I can respect that, but to be honest, I’m sure you research will tell you that people of all incomes and political affiliations purchase your products.

Unfortunately, I am no longer one of them.

I’d appreciate a response explaining your company’s reasoning behind this decision.

Respectfully Yours,

Me.


Here are the addresses I used. All information was obtained from company websites or sites wherein the person identified was listed for 2006 with the appropriate title.

Andy House, Chief Marketing Officer
Sony Corporation of America
550 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10022

Steve Pacheco
Director of Advertising
FedEx
942 South Shady Grove Road
Memphis, TN 38120

Patrick McKenna
Director of Marketing Communications
BMW Of North America, LLC
300 Chestnut Ridge Road
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677

Cathy Lyons
Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
Hewlett-Packard Company
3000 Hanover Street
Palo Alto, CA 94304-1185

[bagrman]

117. 800) 523-4635 Hormel,, a smallish company.

Give them a call doesn't have to be a long call just call and waste their money it will get their attention.

Latr
Chris

[guyton]

95. but how many of these corps advertise on Fox?

I'm much more likely to boycott corporations that are on this list AND also advertise on Rush or Fox. Anyone have a list of advertisers on conservative shows?

[banana republican]

99. AAR advertisers in Seattle

http://am1090seattle.com/pages/17034.php

Come on folks give 'em the business....

[w4rma]

100. Which of these companies also air on FOX News, Rush, or other right-wing shows?

I will bet that all of them do.

[antonialee839]

101. I guess I'll have to re'up with AAR.

[Learning2Fly]

102. Christmas shopping is around the corner

so Toys 'R Us won't be seeing me this year. Also, I have a Pier I credit card that will be mailed back to their corporate headquarters in teeny tiny pieces.

[rocktivity]

106. We have to determine who on that list advertises for the right but not the left

Geez, I go away for four days and the place falls apart?

:headbang:
rocknation

[Vox_Reason]

107. A shot at transcribing the scanned memo

The critical question is this: Which of these companies advertise within fascist programming?


October 25, 2006

***FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION***
AIR AMERICA BLACKOUT
HEWLETT PACKARD

Dear Traffic Director

Please be advised that Hewlett Packard has purchased schedules with ABC Radio Networks between October 30th and December 24th 2006. Please make sure you blackout this advertiser on your station, as they do not wish to air on any Air America affiliates.

Please see below for a complete list of all advertisers requesting that NONE of their commercials air within AIR AMERICA programming.

Allstate
American Heart Association
Aventis
Avon (All brands)
Bank of America
Bayer (All products)
BMW Motorcycles
Carrier
Chattem - Capsasin
Chattem - Gold Bond 1st Aide
Chattem - Gold Bond Foot Powder
Chattem - Phisoderm
Chattem - Selsun Salon
Chattem - Ultimate Healing Lotion
Cigna
Cingular
Clorox
Coke
Coty
Dean's Morningstar Foods
Dell
Denny's
Discovery Channel
Eharmony.com
Epson
Expedia.com
Exxon Mobil
Farmers Insurance
FedEx
Foot Action
Frito-Lay
GE
Gillette Venus
Goodyear
Heineken/Amstel Light
Hershey's
Hewlett Packard
Home Depot
Hormel
Hyatt
Interstate Batteries
JC Penney
Johnson & Johnson (all brands)
Kohl's
Kraft Foods (all brands)
Levi's
Masterfoods (all brands)
McDonald's
Marial Frontline
MGM
Michelin
Microsoft
Morningstar
National Cattleman's Beef
Nestle
Nissan
NYSE
Office Depot
Outdoor Life Network
P&G - Bounty
P&G - Charmin
P&G - Febreeze
P&G - Iams Dog/Cat Foods
P&G - Pepto Bismol
Paramount (all)
Pepsi
Phillip Morris
Pier 1 Imports
Red Lobster
Re/Max
REI Sporting Goods
Rent-way
Robert Half
Schering Plough ESPYs
Schering Plough Tinactin
Sherwin Williams
Sony
State Farm
Toys R Us
Travelocity.com
True Value
United Healthcare
US Navy
USPS
Visa
Walgreens
Wal-Mart
Welch's
Wrigley
Wyeth

Placement of these spots may be found on your weekly ABC Radio Network commercial schedule.

We appreciate your assistance in communicating this request to everyone at your station involved in scheduling ABC Radio Network inventory. Please contact Nicole Loperena at [phone] with any questions.

Thank you for your cooperation.

[snot]

109. Wonder how they feel about Keith Olbermann? See

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=364x2532156

[Check12]

111. Travelocity just heard from me.

I sent them a link to the Media Matters page.

I told them I felt they were engaging in anti-american business practices, and I was going to make sure all my liberal friends heard about it.

Oh.. and Have a nice day.

[JPZenger]

118. Be Interesting to Compare to Limbaugh's Advertisers

Some companies might make an argument that they are non-partisan, and therefore don't want to advertise on any program that is strongly partisan on either side. What would be very interesting would be to compare this list to a list of companies that do advertise on Hannity and Squirrel, and on Limbaugh. That would prove who is really biased, vs. who is simply trying to avoid controversy.

The only major company I have heard advertise on Air America was Ford Motor Company, and that was only for a couple weeks.

It is no surprise that Kohl's is on there list. One of the top members of the Kohl's family is a GOP Senator, and the family has been leading the effort to eliminate the estate tax.

This boycott list also probably shows that AAR is a good bang for the advertising buck. If there are so many companies that won't advertise, then the ad rates are probably much lower than market rate for the number of listeners who can be reached.

[yurbud]

122. God damn it, now I got to write some letters... and change banks finally

fucking bank of america. their bounced check fees are too high anyway.

[rhett o rick]

124. Collusion !! I don't believe that all these companies independently decided

not to advertise on AAR. Looks to me like someone contacted them and coordinated their boycott of AAR.
Rovian. I would support an organized boycott. Have started writing letters and emails.

[rhett o rick]

126. Is there any proof that these companies wanted to be on this list?

I contacted a few and they all deny wanting to be on the list. It would not be such a bad trick for someone Rovian to fake this list to stir up trouble. I favor a boycott if warranted.
f