Bruce St. James Exits KTAR/Phoenix
• UPDATED: RAMP has confirmed that Phoenix radio fixture Bruce St. James has exited his position as 9am-noon host on Bonneville News-Talk KTAR News 92.3/Phoenix after a decade of service. His co-host, Pamela Hughes, a 17-year Bonneville veteran, has also exited.
“Nobody is owed a radio show, it is a privilege,” St. James wrote in a farewell message posted to Facebook. “I’ve spent 10 amazing years at KTAR, and today was my last show. There are far too many people to thank as nearly everyone who has worked here, or is still working here, have contributed to my personal and professional success. Suffice to say I will miss my daily ‘work family’ of Pamela, Steve, Bob and Tommy a lot.This show gave me a large and unique platform to discuss Arizona issues, highlight local heroes and champion causes and charities that are making an impact in the Valley. For that, I am truly grateful.”
St. James has enjoyed a lengthy tenure in the Phoenix market, most notably 13 years as PD of Rhythmic KKFR, followed by a brief stint programming CBS Radio Rhythmic KZON (101.5 JamZ) and Country KMLEuntil May 2010, when he made the transition to Talk radio and joined KTAR.
In closing, St. James quoted a radio truism when he said, “Radio years are like dog years — so that means I spent nearly 70 years at KTAR and that is amazing in and of itself.” He added, “Fear not! There is a new adventure ahead and I’ll save that announcement for a later date. Peace out, I’m headed to the boat!”
Looking ahead, Bruce will continue to pursue his successful racing career and can contacted (on the boat) at TheBruceStJames@gmail.com.
• On Friday afternoon, Bonneville Phoenix announced that Mike Broomhead will be joining KTAR News 92.3, crossing the street after a decade with iHeartMedia News Talk rival 550 KFYI. The Mike Broomhead Show debuts Feb. 24 and will run weekdays from 8am-noon, replacing St. James and Hughes. “I want to thank both Pamela and Bruce for their outstanding contributions, both personally and professionally,” said Ryan Hatch, VP of Programming for Bonneville Phoenix.
“We are extremely excited to add one of the most talented talk show hosts in the country to our powerful lineup,” said Scott Sutherland, SVP/Market Manager of Bonneville Phoenix. “Mike is a values-driven, influential thought leader who is committed to making a positive impact in our community, which is core to the KTAR mission.” Concurrent with Broomhead’s debut, Arizona’s Morning News with Jim Sharpe, Jayme West and Detour Dan will now roll from 5-8am.
