RANDY IS DANDY AT CLEAR CHANNEL

In a move that was widely rumor-mongered (most notably here), Randy Michaels has been named to the post of Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Radio, the combined radio entity which will be formed after the company's merger with AMFM becomes official later this year, by Clear Channel Communications Inc. COO Mark Mays. Michaels was previously President of Clear Channel Radio. He had his assistant e-mail to say he'd prefer his bio was not posted on hitsdailydouble.com.

In addition, current AMFM Radio Chairman/CEO Kenneth J. O'Keefe will join Michaels as President/COO.

Commenting on the announcement, Mays praised the "radio genius" of Michaels, the "operating and financial savvy" of O'Keefe, and the "ability of both to genuflect in my presence" as keys in making the appointments. "They make a formidable team that is unparalleled in the radio industry today. Under their combined leadership, we believe the radio division of Clear Channel will shatter industry records. And if not, we're all headed to dot-coms."

Michaels is a legendary radio executive who has worked in every position from control booth to CEO, and is known for his programming expertise, engineering prowess, relentless competitive spirit and ability to brew a mean cup of java. "I've been in radio all my life and there has never been a more exciting time in this industry. Clear Channel Radio, with the combined assets of AMFM, is an unmatchable--and unduplicted--collection of brands, marketing muscle and distribution assets. I'm looking forward to working with Kenny to shape the future of Clear Channel Radio once the AMFM deal is closed."

Said O'Keefe: "Clear Channel has distinguished itself through its long-term vision, superior operating results and financially astute, strategic acquisitions. Hey, did we buy Krispy Kreme yet?"

The San Antonio, TX-based Clear Channel now controls 874 radio and 19 television stations in the U.S. They also operate 550,000 outdoor advertising displays. The merger with AMFM will close sometime in the third quarter.