Woodward Expands Springfield Presence with Mid-West Deal

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, November 14, 2024

Woodward Communications

Woodward Communications Inc. (WCI) has agreed to acquire four stations from Mid-West Family in Springfield, IL. The acquisition includes WNNS-FM, WQLZ-FM, WMAY-FM and WMAY-AM, expanding WCI's presence in Springfield, where it recently purchased four stations from Neuhoff Media. The acquisition of the Neuhoff stations -- WXAJ-FM, WFMB-FM, WCVS-FM and WFMB-AM -- was finalized on October 1.

WCI President and CEO Tom Woodward expressed excitement about integrating Mid-West Family's established brands, stating that WCI plans to consolidate operations at Mid-West Family's existing facilities. Woodward highlighted the benefits of creating operational synergies for staff clients, and the local community.

To meet FCC ownership regulations, WCI will divest WCVS-FM. Kevin O'Dea, who currently manages WCI's Springfield operations and brings decades of industry experience will remain as Market Manager. O'Dea's connection to Springfield radio dates back to 1978 with Mid-West Family's WMAY-AM, and he was recently honored as the Illinois Broadcaster Association's 2024 "Broadcaster of the Year."

In addition to the Springfield expansion, WCI plans to divest two recently acquired Bloomington, IL stations, WIHN and WWHX, and has signed a Local Marketing Agreement (LMA) with Great Plains Media to manage operations for WBBE. Great Plains Media, which owns three stations in Bloomington, will manage the WBBE station.

WCI cited the divestitures and the Bloomington LMA as part of its strategy to consolidate resources in the Springfield market. The completion of these transactions, including FCC approvals, is expected soon. WCI was advised on the acquisitions and divestitures by Greg Guy of Tideline Partners, while Mid-West Family was represented by Bob Heymann Jr. of Media Services Group - Chicago.