Bill Spry fulfills promise to listeners by bringing classic rock station to Butler County
In a bid to serve the loyal listeners of ClassX Radio, Bill Spry has made good on his promise to expand the coverage of his small classic rock station. By acquiring WHSS 89.5 FM, Spry has not only fulfilled the requests of his audience but also gained access to a heritage station with a rich broadcasting history. This move marks an exciting development for both ClassX Radio and the residents of Butler County.
A Heritage Station with a Rich History
WHSS 89.5 FM, which began broadcasting in May 1975, initially started as a Hamilton High School class with periodic broadcasts. Over time, it evolved into a 24-hour station, offering a diverse range of programming. Owned by the Hamilton City Schools for many years, WHSS featured classical and jazz music, public affairs discussions, and play-by-play sports broadcasts. In the 1980s and 1990s, it transitioned into a popular pop and rock music format.
A Change in Ownership and Format
In May 2010, live programming on WHSS came to an end, 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 in northern Cincinnati and had previously acquired WPFB 910 AM in Middletown in 2016. However, the 89.5 FM signal remained unused for several months, presenting an opportunity for Bill Spry and ClassX Radio.
Seizing the Opportunity
When Spry, the owner of Spryex Communications and ClassX Radio, learned that the 89.5 FM channel was not being utilized, he approached Sacred Heart Radio and purchased the station. Simulcasting ClassX Radio programming on WHSS 89.5 FM allowed Spry to meet the FCC’s requirement of broadcasting within 12 consecutive months to maintain the station’s license. With just four weeks to spare, ClassX Radio began reaching the northern Cincinnati area through WHSS.
Expanding Coverage and Reaching New Audiences
Prior to the acquisition of WHSS, Spryex Communications had two channels: 88.9 FM, primarily serving western Hamilton County, and 89.1 FM, catering to the Lebanon-Springboro areas in Warren County. The addition of WHSS 89.5 FM fills the gap between Cincinnati and Lebanon, enabling ClassX Radio to extend its reach to the northern Cincinnati area. Spry expressed his enthusiasm for expanding further if the opportunity arises, emphasizing that ClassX Radio’s mission is not solely driven by profit but by serving local communities.
A Non-Profit Radio Station with Local Focus
ClassX Radio distinguishes itself as a non-commercial, non-profit radio station that prioritizes community engagement. Spry takes pride in the fact that ClassX Radio is dedicated to serving local communities and providing a platform for local voices. With affiliates across different regions, including Covington, Erlanger, Florence, and Hartsville, ClassX Radio continues to connect with audiences beyond Butler County.
Conclusion:
The acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM by ClassX Radio marks an exciting milestone in the station’s expansion journey. Bill Spry’s commitment to his listeners has resulted in the fulfillment of their requests and the addition of a heritage station to the ClassX Radio network. With a focus on community and non-profit values, ClassX Radio continues to serve local audiences and explore opportunities for further growth. As the station expands its coverage, it remains dedicated to providing quality programming and supporting the communities it serves.
Leave a Reply