In December 1961 a new publication, the FM-Stereo Guide began publishing it's own schedule of radio programs in Philadelphia. Before the first issue even hit the stands, WFLN threatened to sue them. Billboard covered the spat, and the issue of a terse lawyer letter explaining that the guide has falsely claimed that WFLN is furnishing programming information to them. Ultimately the guide was to include information from 10 stations but not WFLN. They claimed that the FM Guide conveyed "a completely false impression to the public of the character of the magazine."
To our modern sensibilities, it seems like a gross over-reaction. But in the internet age, we have given up on the notion that the flow of information can be controlled. But there was no internet in the 1960s. While today no one would try to limit access to this kind of information. It's considered of basic utility. But back in the early 1960s, FM radio was the playground of audiophiles and this 48 page pamphlet was an income stream for the radio station. The leap to FM was no sure thing, and they were defending that investment prudently. For historical reference, and research purposes, I've scanned one issue. Read on.
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