Neuhoff Family Limited Partnership, the parent company of Neuhoff Media-Springfield, LLC and Neuhoff Media-Bloomington, LLC has announced it has entered into an agreement to sell the assets of WFMB-AM/WFMB-FM, WCVS-FM, WXAJ-FM and Channel1450.com in Springfield and WBBE-FM, WWHX-FM and WIHN-FM in Bloomington to Woodward Communications, Inc.
This transaction marks the final sale of the divestiture as part of a strategic decision by the Neuhoff family to exit the broadcast industry after nearly 70 years, according to Julian Hickman and Makena Neuhoff, trustees of the Neuhoff family.
In the initial sale, effective Feb. 1, radio stations in Decatur and Danville were transferred to Champaign Multimedia Group.
Hickman commented, “This final sale is bittersweet for our family, reflecting both a proud legacy and an emotional farewell. Our grandfather, Roger Neuhoff, poured his heart into the broadcast industry since the mid-1950s. The stations have been a vital part of our family and community, and while we cherish the incredible journey, it is time to turn the page.”
Previously, Neuhoff Family Limited Partnership and its local companies owned and operated 24 broadcast signals, along with multiple digital platforms, in five radio markets across central Illinois and west central Indiana.
“We would like to thank the incredible teams of local broadcasters in Springfield and Bloomington. We will forever cherish the memories and the significant impact our stations had on the local communities,” said Makena Neuhoff.
Woodward Communications, Inc. is an employee-owned company based in Dubuque, Iowa. The company began in 1836 as the first newspaper in Iowa and has expanded to include eight radio stations plus newspapers, niche publications and publishing.
“I couldn’t be happier to transition these tremendous brands and talented, committed local broadcasters to the Woodward team. They share Neuhoff’s passion for localism and excellence,” said Neuhoff Media interim CEO Steve Wexler. “It’s been an honor to be part of this closing chapter in the proud Neuhoff broadcast journey,” added Wexler.
The timing of the announcement aligns with the formal filing of an ownership change application with the Federal Communications Commission.
Kalil & Co., Inc. acted as broker for the seller.
