102.5 FM The Bone is making lineup changes following the announcement that the "Bubba the Love Sponge Show" will no longer be aired on the station. Bubba (Todd Clem) is off the air in this market, and the change takes place immediately.
No reason was given other than the standard "different direction" line.
What it means is some serious reshuffling of the lineup, but The Bone seems to have its ducks in a row in that regard. The station's strongest remaining asset, Mike Calta, brings his popular show into the early morning to fill Bubba's now-vacant slot. Calta's experience, synergy with his team and significant following should make for a relatively-smooth transition.
Taking Calta's afternoon drive time slot is Drew Garabo, whose "In Your Face" program seems well-suited to fill that opening. Garabo's brash, unapologetic stance with callers should provide enough fireworks to keep things interesting. Shannon Burke takes Garabo's old slot, and the "Bone Daily Rewind Show" takes over Burke's slot (which he didn't have very long, anyway). The BDRS features local comedians Maurice Jovan and Johnny B riffing on the topics already covered by The Bone's previous programs, as well as new content of their own.
Everyone seems to fit well in their new spots but, as always, listeners will dictate the success or failure of any change. Meanwhile, Bubba's still available for his fans on Orlando and Ocala stations. Expect the lineup changes at The Bone to take effect Sept. 2.
