Wichita Radio: Journal Selling KFTI-FM To Non-Profit

Nonprofit Envision is buying KFTI 92.3 FM from Journal Broadcast Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Journal Communications, Inc.

The Classic Country station is being purchased by Envision Broadcast Network LLC, which is affiliated with Envision Inc., according to kansas.com. Envision Inc. is focused on programs and advocacy for people who are visually impaired.

Envision said it plans to use the station to broadcast “blind and visually impaired messaging while sharing its initiatives in a traditional radio station format.” That would include a morning show and other traditional radio programming, according to the release.

KFTI 92.3 FM (95Kw) 60dBu Coverage

“We are very excited to be adding a new dimension to our organization as we enter the world of broadcast communications,” Michael Monteferrante, CEO and president of Envision, said in a statement. “KFTI represents our latest success in diversifying our operations and strengthening our resources. We’re gaining a new revenue stream for funding our programs, new job opportunities for those we serve and a valuable communications vehicle through which we and other organizations can reach audiences. ...”

Journal Broadcast Group is required to divest one FM station in the Wichita area as a result of the announced deal between Journal Communications and E.W. Scripps Company, to comply with FCC’s ownership limits. As part of that transaction, Journal Broadcast Group’s TV and radio stations will become part of Scripps, and both companies’ newspaper operations will be spun off and then merge to form a new public company called Journal Media Group.

The sale of KFTI is contingent on FCC approval and is expected to be completed in 2015, according to kansas.com.

The current Classic Country format will evetnually wind-up on KLIO 1070 AM (10Kw-Day, 1Kw-Night).