10 Questions with ... Dave Hovel

NAME:Dave Hovel TITLE:Programming/Operations/Nights STATION:WXCY MARKET:Wilmington, DE COMPANY:Delmarva Broadcasting Company BORN:Baltimore, MD RAISED:Bel Air, MD

1) What was your first job in radio?

My first job was on Bay Country B 103 (WBEY) on Maryland's Eastern Shore. I did overnights and it was fun.

Early influences? Uncle Johnny on Q-107 (WRQX), that man proved to me that you could have fun on the radio. Ken Merson, all over Baltimore radio, but I remember the WCBM days most, Big Tom Winston, Hot Hits K-106, Pete Michaels, Hot Hits K-106.

2) Of all the skills that you've gained as a programmer, which area are you NOT as strong as you would like to be?

Delegating. I am a hands on guy and do not like to let go.

3) With the advent of Satellite Radio affect our biz? Explain!

It is another option. In my market, I am not sure the Satellite affects in this format. The folks at Sirius are doing a good job. WXCY is local and with other products out there, it makes us work harder to be even more local, every hour of everyday.

4) What do you like best about your job?

The ability to make changes as we go. Our upper management team is a great guide, but I like being able to adjust and grow the radio station.

Least? Honestly, sales. I like my paycheck, but I waste a lot of time putting together sales oriented programming. I liked the old days, spots and move on with life.

5) What can we be doing with our station's web sites to better our stations as a whole?

Streaming! It is important to the success of radio. Our websites need to be an extension of the radio station. The net is still so new, we need to keep working on ways to evolve the website and the radio station.

6) Who are your programming mentors?

Keith Hill. Been working with him for 10+ years and a great guide to keeping me on track.

7) In your opinion, what is the greatest song ever that never made it as a hit?

"Hillbilly Rap" by the Bellamy Brothers. (I am old)

8) Favorite artist that you have met?

Brad Paisley, he is the most down to earth guy I ever chatted with.

9) What's the biggest record that you completely missed on?

Well, this one opens a lot of doors. Recently, I was wayyyyy late on adding Jake Owen, "Startin' with Me."

10) Most surprising record of the past 12 months?

"Alyssa Lies" by Jason Michael Carroll. This song came out of nowhere with phones and reaction.

1) Do you read everything? Books, Magazines, etc. Nothing? What's your favorite reading material?

TV Guide. I map out my week when the new one arrives. (I am definitely not a book reader; I wait till the movie comes out)

2) Do you have Musical Guilty Pleasures?

I listen to new jingle packages when they arrive for all formats. (It's true)

3) You are on a desert island...what 5 CDs are in you portable disc player?

Can I pick music channels and have an hour of each? Sirius Hits One, New Country 60 and The Beat (all on Sirius). (I have never listened to a whole CD by choice; I am a hit music kind of guy).

4) Describe your favorite meal?

Steamed Maryland Blue Crabs and a Natty Boh (or 6). I am a Maryland guy.