An interesting article appeared in last Saturday's Press concerning KVNI's shift to a larger sports format and eliminating its oldies music.

For many years, the station aired their unique "doo-woppin' oldies" show along with morning shows, commentaries and plenty of sports. There was consistent strong support for the music - doo-wop songs were played frequently positive comments were aired and the station broadcasted, "We don't just play old songs like other stations." The "doo-woppin' oldies" show was superb. Along with the other shows and sports, KVNI offered an excellent mix of entertainment well-supported by all.

About a year ago, something strange happened. A new DJ took over, a subtle change in title was made to reflect "doo-wop AND oldies," and the good doo-wop songs that received so much public acclaim were no longer included in the program. From that point on, the station just played old songs like most other oldies stations, which of course resulted in diminished audience interest. Recently the station manager has apparently discovered this fact and so he decided, rather than restoring what worked fine, the program will be eliminated.

How often it is that someone new comes on board and, to justify their existence, makes changes to good programs. Even if the changes don't work, their egos won't let them return to the original successes.

ROGER RYAN

Coeur d'Alene