MD Radio: WBOC-TV To Acquire WOLC FM

WBOC, which began serving the Delmarva Peninsula 75 years ago as WBOC-AM radio, is returning to it roots with the acquisition of non-com Religious WOLC 102.5 FM from Maranatha, Inc. The purchase of the radio station, which is presently based out of Princess Anne, Md., was announced Thursday by WBOC-TV16 Vice President & General Manager Craig Jahelka.

"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.

WOLC 102.5 FM (50 Kw) Red=Local Coverage Area

“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.”

Jahelka said WBOC has retained the services of a firm that specializes in radio programming. He said that while no decision has been made yet on a format for 102.5, "I can promise the station will reflect the WBOC brand, serving our family, friends and neighbors here on the peninsula.”