Chronicle: Saga Communications Founder/CEO Ed Christian passed away Aug. 19 after a short illness. He was 78. The Detroit native started in radio in 1958. He served as VP/GM for AC WNIC/Detroit from 1974-1977 when it was purchased by Josephson Communications, where he rose to Pres. In 1986, Christian formed Saga Communications and purchased Josephson's six stations, which grew into Saga's now 114 stations across 27 markets, including two dozen Country stations. Christian has been the only leader throughout the company's history. He was honored by NAB as a Broadcast Pioneer in 2008 and then with its National Radio Award in 2009. Saga board member and former COO Warren Lada will serve as interim CEO. No word on services.