Civic Media to Acquire WNOV 860, Milwaukee Courier

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 | 3:16pm CT

Civic Media

Civic Media has agreed to acquire heritage Urban News/Talk WNOV (860/106.5) in Milwaukee along with the weekly Milwaukee Courier newspaper, assuming responsibility for station programming and newspaper publication on January 1.

As part of the transition, current WNOV owner Mary Ellen Jones will serve as a consultant, while Jerrel Jones will assist with the newspaper's transition. Civic Media also named Dr. Robert "Biko" Baker as Operations Manager for both properties, where he will oversee efforts to invest in journalism and programming serving Milwaukee's Black community. Baker is a civic engagement leader, political commentator, and former editor of The Source, with extensive experience in digital and community-focused initiatives.

WNOV was purchased in 1972 by Courier Communications Corporation, led by Dr. Jerrel Jones, becoming the first Black-owned radio station in Wisconsin and one of a small number nationwide at the time. The Milwaukee Courier has been published continuously since 1964 and has long served as a trusted voice in Milwaukee's Black community.

The transaction follows more than five decades of family ownership and the recent passing of Dr. Jones. The Jones family said it is entrusting Civic Media with continuing the legacy of service, journalism, and community connection established by the station and newspaper.

"My parents built The Milwaukee Courier and WNOV to give Milwaukee's Black community a voice when few existed," said Mary Ellen Jones. "Passing that responsibility forward was not taken lightly. Civic Media is committed to honoring that legacy while investing in the future of trusted media."

Civic Media CEO Sage Weil said the acquisition represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. "These are trusted institutions with deep roots in Milwaukee, and our role is to steward that legacy while investing in their future-modernizing operations, expanding digital reach, and ensuring they continue to serve the community with integrity," Weil said. He added that Civic Media, founded in 2022 as a public benefit corporation, is focused on supporting democracy through local journalism.

Earnestine Jones, widow of Dr. Jones, said the family believes Civic Media will continue the mission of providing accurate information and community representation. Jerrel Jones, who will consult on the Courier's digital transformation, said it was important to the family that both institutions continue to inform and uplift the community.

Earl Ingram, a longtime community member and host on Civic Media, said the transition marks a new chapter for WNOV, combining long-standing station staples with new voices. Chris Moreau, Civic Media Regional President for Southern Wisconsin, said the company is committed to providing the resources needed to support WNOV and the Milwaukee Courier across broadcast, digital, and print platforms.