The Christian radio landscape is undergoing a significant shift as 94.9 KLTY, along with six other contemporary Christian music stations across the United States, are set to change hands. The sale, valued at $80 million, involves the transfer of these stations from Salem Media Group to Educational Media Foundation (EMF), which operates K-LOVE and Air1. This transaction also includes a $10 million deal for marketing and advertising services. The sale aims to help Salem Media Group pay off its long-term debt, while EMF intends to expand its reach and impact on Christian music listeners. Local employees at KLTY face job losses due to this transition, leaving many feeling uncertain about their futures.

New Ownership Brings Uncertainty for North Texas Employees

The impending ownership change at 94.9 KLTY has left many local employees in limbo. The station, which began broadcasting in 1985, will now be managed by EMF. Long-time staff members, such as Mike Prendergast, who spent nearly two decades at the station, are among those losing their jobs. The transition has been particularly difficult for the morning show hosts, Bonnie Curry and Jeremiah Richardson, who expressed deep emotional ties to their audience. Despite the challenges, they remain hopeful that new opportunities will arise from this situation.

The sale of KLTY has sparked a wave of emotions within the community. Many employees have shared personal reflections on social media, highlighting both the joy and pain associated with their time at the station. Bonnie Curry, in particular, emphasized the importance of staying connected with listeners, even as the future remains unclear. Her message conveyed a sense of faith and resilience, reminding everyone that change can sometimes lead to unexpected blessings. The departure of these dedicated professionals marks the end of an era for the station, but it also opens the door to new possibilities under EMF's leadership.

Salem Media Group Exits Contemporary Christian Music Format

Salem Media Group’s decision to exit the Contemporary Christian Music format is part of a broader strategy to address financial challenges. Edward Atsinger, the executive chairman of Salem Media Group, explained that the sale would allow the company to eliminate all of its long-term debt. By divesting these assets, Salem aims to refocus its efforts on other areas of media. The choice of EMF as the buyer was strategic, given the organization’s reputation for delivering high-quality Christian content. This move is expected to benefit listeners by ensuring continued access to uplifting music and programming.

The sale of KLTY and the other stations reflects a larger trend in the media industry, where companies are constantly evaluating their portfolios to stay competitive. For Salem Media Group, this decision represents a significant step toward financial stability. Meanwhile, EMF’s acquisition expands its influence in the Christian radio market, positioning it as a dominant player. The transition also highlights the evolving nature of religious media, where organizations must adapt to changing listener preferences and economic conditions. As the deal moves forward, both companies are optimistic about the positive impact it will have on their respective missions and audiences.