Bill Spry fulfills promise to listeners by bringing classic rock to Butler County
In a move that delighted loyal listeners, Bill Spry, the owner of ClassX Radio, has made good on his promise to expand the coverage of his small classic rock station. Spry recently acquired WHSS 89.5 FM, a heritage station in Butler County, Ohio. This acquisition allows ClassX Radio to reach the northern Cincinnati area, bridging the gap between Cincinnati and Lebanon. The move not only fulfills the requests of many listeners but also highlights Spry’s commitment to serving local communities and providing quality programming.
A Heritage Station with a Rich History:
WHSS 89.5 FM has a rich history that dates back to May 1975 when it began as a Hamilton High School class project with periodic broadcasts. Over the years, it evolved into a 24-hour station with a diverse range of programming, including classical and jazz music, public affairs, and play-by-play sports broadcasts. In the 1980s and 1990s, the station adopted a pop and rock music format, becoming a beloved source of entertainment for many in the area.
The Transition and Sale to Sacred Heart Radio:
Live programming on WHSS ended in May 2010, and the station was subsequently sold to Sacred Heart Radio in August of that year. Sacred Heart Radio, a regional Catholic-centered station, aimed to expand its reach into the northern Cincinnati area. However, Sacred Heart Radio eventually took the 89.5 FM signal off the air, leaving it unused for several months.
ClassX Radio Steps In:
When Bill Spry learned that the WHSS 89.5 FM signal was not being utilized, he saw an opportunity to expand his station’s coverage. Spry approached Sacred Heart Radio and purchased the channel, allowing him to simulcast ClassX Radio programming. This acquisition came just in time, as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was on the verge of revoking the license due to non-use. Spry was able to begin simulcasting with only four weeks to spare, ensuring that listeners in the Butler County area could finally enjoy the classic rock they had long requested.
Expanding Coverage and Serving Local Communities:
With the addition of WHSS 89.5 FM, ClassX Radio now has a stronger presence in the northern Cincinnati area. Prior to the acquisition, Spryex Communications, the parent company of ClassX Radio, operated two channels: 88.9 FM, serving western Hamilton County, and 89.1 FM, serving the Lebanon-Springboro areas in Warren County. The new channel fills the gap between these two regions, allowing ClassX Radio to reach a wider audience.
Spry emphasizes that ClassX Radio is a non-profit station and prides itself on serving local communities. The station’s expansion into Butler County is a testament to its commitment to providing quality programming and catering to the preferences of its listeners. Spry also expressed openness to acquiring additional radio stations in the future, should the opportunity arise.
Conclusion:
Bill Spry’s acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM marks a significant milestone for ClassX Radio and its listeners in Butler County. By fulfilling their requests for classic rock programming, Spry demonstrates his dedication to serving local communities and providing quality entertainment. The expansion into the northern Cincinnati area not only enhances the station’s coverage but also strengthens its mission to deliver non-profit radio programming that puts the interests of the listeners first. As ClassX Radio continues to grow, it remains a shining example of a local station making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
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