ClassX Radio Expands Coverage with Acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM

Bill Spry fulfills promise to loyal listeners by bringing classic rock to Butler County

In a bid to serve the loyal fans of his small classic rock station, Bill Spry, the owner of Spryex Communications, has made good on his promise to expand coverage. Spry recently acquired WHSS 89.5 FM, a heritage station in Butler County, Ohio. This move allows ClassX Radio to reach the northern Cincinnati area, filling the gap between Cincinnati and Lebanon. The acquisition not only brings classic rock to a new audience but also highlights the commitment of local radio stations to their communities.

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, the station evolved into a 24-hour programming format, initially featuring classical and jazz music, public affairs shows, and play-by-play sports broadcasts. In the 1980s and 1990s, it transitioned into a pop and rock music format, becoming a beloved station in the region.

From School Ownership to Sacred Heart Radio

In May 2010, live programming on WHSS ended, and the station was sold to Sacred Heart Radio, a regional Catholic-centered radio station based in Newport, Kentucky. The sale allowed Sacred Heart Radio to expand its reach in northern Cincinnati. However, several months ago, Sacred Heart Radio took the 89.5 FM signal off the air, leaving it unused.

ClassX Radio Steps In

When Bill Spry heard that the WHSS channel was no longer being used, he saw an opportunity to expand his coverage. Spry approached Sacred Heart Radio and purchased the 89.5 FM signal. Simulcasting ClassX Radio programming on WHSS became a race against time, as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has a rule that revokes a station’s license if it doesn’t broadcast for 12 consecutive months. Spry managed to start simulcasting with just four weeks to spare.

Expanding Coverage and Reaching New Audiences

Spryex Communications, the parent company of ClassX Radio, previously had two channels: 88.9 FM, serving western Hamilton County, and 89.1 FM, serving the Lebanon-Springboro areas in Warren County. The acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM fills the gap between these two areas, allowing ClassX Radio to reach the northern Cincinnati audience. This expansion aligns with Spry’s commitment to serving local communities and providing non-commercial, non-profit radio programming.

A Non-Profit Radio Station with a Local Focus

ClassX Radio takes pride in being a non-profit station that prioritizes community service over financial gain. Bill Spry emphasizes that “It’s not all about money.” The station has already established affiliates in various communities, including Covington, Kentucky, downtown Cincinnati, Erlanger and Florence, Kentucky, northern Hamilton County, and Hartsville, South Carolina. Spry remains open to further opportunities for expansion, demonstrating his dedication to bringing local radio to more communities.

Conclusion:

The acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM by ClassX Radio marks a significant milestone in the station’s journey to expand coverage and reach new audiences. Bill Spry’s commitment to serving local communities shines through as he fulfills his promise to loyal listeners. By acquiring heritage stations like WHSS, ClassX Radio ensures that classic rock continues to have a place on the airwaves, bringing joy and nostalgia to listeners across Butler County and beyond. As ClassX Radio grows, it remains dedicated to its non-profit, community-focused mission, seeking to provide quality programming to local communities in an era dominated by commercial radio.


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