WBOC began serving the Delmarva Peninsula 75 years ago as WBOC-AM radio. And now WBOC is returning to its radio roots. WBOC-TV Vice President & General Manager, Craig Jahelka, announced Thursday, Aug. 13, of the acquisition of WOLC 102.5 FM from Maranatha, Inc.
“We are humbled by the trust people on Delmarva put in us every day,” Jahelka said. “We’re dedicated to providing the best news, weather, information and entertainment available. With the addition of 102.5 FM we will be able to serve our audience and advertisers anytime and anywhere on Delmarva, even when they’re in their vehicles, on a boat or operating a combine.”
WBOC-AM, originally owned by Peninsula Broadcasting, signed on the air 75 years ago on Sept. 13, 1940, and expanded to television in July 1954. In 1980, current owner Thomas H. Draper, CEO & president of Draper Holdings, purchased the stations. Acquiring WOLC is also a return to radio for him.
“My start in broadcasting began in 1967 at WTHD in Milford,” Draper said. “I’ve come full circle with the addition of WOLC. The 50,000-watt signal can be heard across much of Delmarva and is a perfect fit for our family and our company.”
No decision has been made yet on a format for 102.5, but Jehelka said, “I can promise the station will reflect the WBOC brand, serving our family, friends and neighbors here on the peninsula.”
“There’s no doubt WBOC’s news, weather and sports information will be a vital part of this operation,” Jahelka added.
Radio operations will be housed in WBOC’s main building in Salisbury and located in space where the former WBOC-AM was located. Jahelka said additional staffers will be hired to operate WOLC.
“Our goal is to make it the best radio station on the Delmarva Peninsula,” Jahelka said.
For the full story and press release, go to WBOC.com.
