Des Moines KXNO fires 3 hosts

HuffPost tipster D.J. alerts us to this profanity-laced argument that was heard live on the air during a commercial break of a Des Moines radio show. Apparently the mics were still hot as the station cut to commercials, and what transpired was unfortunate. The Des Moines Register reports:

Listeners of Des Moines sports radio station KXNO heard a profane argument between broadcasters Marty Tirrell and Larry Cotlar on Friday morning that included Tirrell's use of the "F-word" at least a dozen times.

The argument -- apparently over media credentials used during last week's Iowa high school boys' basketball tournament -- took place just moments before the beginning of an NCAA basketball preview show.

I guess they're kind of lucky to an extent they still have their D-League gigs:

DES MOINES, Iowa - Two fired Des Moines sports radio hosts will be kept on as broadcasters for the NBA D-League's Iowa Energy -- whose games are broadcast on the same station that dismissed them.

Morning host Larry Cotlar, his co-host Geoff Conn and afternoon host Marty Tirrell were fired by KXNO on Wednesday after a profanity-laced tirade was accidentally broadcast over the air last week.

The Energy says that Tirrell will continue to be the team's play-by-play announcer. The team also says Cotlar will remain as the color commentator and that Conn will continue his duties as the team's public address announcer.

The team says it made the moves in the spirit of reconciliation and after thoughtful consideration and deliberation.

Here's Cotlar's statement following the incident:

Larry Cotlar's Statement On Termination From KXNO

Larry Cotlar Staff Writer

March 25, 2009

I am saddened and deeply disappointed with Clear Channel's decision to terminate my employment after all my years of service over an unfortunate incident which I did not initiate nor had any knowledge was being broadcast over the airwaves. I sincerely apologize to any listeners who may have been offended by what they heard over the air last Friday morning.

I want to thank my many loyal listeners, friends and colleagues who have supported me during the difficult time and throughout my eight wonderful years at KXNO Radio.

Way to be a stand up guy...

First rule in radio... always assume the mic is live.