Bill Spry fulfills promise to listeners with the launch of a new radio channel in Butler County
In an exciting development for classic rock enthusiasts in Butler County, Bill Spry, owner of ClassX Radio, has acquired WHSS 89.5 FM, a heritage station that had been off the air for several months. Spry’s commitment to serving local communities and his passion for non-profit radio has led to the expansion of ClassX’s coverage, bridging the gap between Cincinnati and Lebanon. With the addition of WHSS, ClassX now offers a wider reach and a diverse range of programming for its loyal listeners.
A Heritage Station with a Rich History
WHSS 89.5 FM has a storied past, dating back to its establishment in May 1975 as a Hamilton High School class project. What began as periodic broadcasts evolved into a 24-hour station, owned initially by the Hamilton City Schools. The station’s programming encompassed classical and jazz music, public affairs discussions, and play-by-play sports broadcasts. In the 1980s and 1990s, WHSS transitioned to a popular music format, catering to the tastes of the local community.
A Change in Ownership
Live programming on WHSS came to an end in May 2010, prompting the Hamilton City Schools to sell the station to Sacred Heart Radio later that August. Sacred Heart Radio, a regional Catholic-centered station, aimed to expand its reach in northern Cincinnati. However, the 89.5 FM signal remained unused for several months until Bill Spry seized the opportunity to acquire it for ClassX Radio.
Simulcasting ClassX Radio Programming
Spry, the owner of Spryex Communications, approached Sacred Heart Radio and purchased the dormant 89.5 FM signal. ClassX Radio, a non-profit station, had faced the revocation of its license by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) due to non-use. By simulcasting ClassX programming on WHSS, Spry successfully met the FCC’s requirements just weeks before the deadline.
Expanding Coverage and Reaching New Audiences
The acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM has allowed ClassX Radio to extend its coverage beyond its existing channels, 88.9 FM and 89.1 FM. While 88.9 FM primarily serves western Hamilton County, and 89.1 FM caters to the Lebanon-Springboro areas in Warren County, WHSS fills the geographical gap between Cincinnati and Lebanon. This strategic move enables ClassX to reach new listeners in the northern Cincinnati area, providing them with the classic rock music they love.
A Commitment to Local Communities
ClassX Radio takes pride in its non-profit status and its dedication to serving local communities. With the addition of WHSS, Spry continues to fulfill his promise of providing local programming and supporting the communities he serves. ClassX Radio’s presence in various regions, including Covington, downtown Cincinnati, Erlanger, Florence, northern Hamilton County, and Hartsville, S.C., demonstrates its commitment to delivering quality content to diverse audiences.
Future Expansion Possibilities
When asked about the potential for acquiring additional radio stations, Spry expressed openness to the idea, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities for expansion. While staying true to its non-profit ethos, ClassX Radio remains committed to growing its reach and serving more communities in the future.
Conclusion:
With the acquisition of WHSS 89.5 FM, ClassX Radio has expanded its coverage and brought classic rock music to Butler County. Bill Spry’s dedication to non-profit radio and serving local communities has allowed him to fulfill the requests of loyal listeners and bridge the gap between Cincinnati and Lebanon. As ClassX continues to grow, there is a promise of more exciting developments on the horizon, ensuring that the spirit of local radio thrives in the digital age.
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