The Spokane based non-profit organization, Oldies Preservation Society (OPS) has been notified by Eastern Washington University that they have accepted their offer of $510,000, plus $300,000 in publicity and advertising credit to purchase the University's non-commercial radio station, 89.5 KEWU. The ownership transition is pending a public comment period and regulatory approval from the Federal Communications Commission, which is expected to come later this year. OPS currently promotes oldies music though it's local broadcast on KOOL 107.1 FM, playing a large variety of music from the first three decades of rock n roll.
"The KOOL Oldies format is like a museum of great music from the 50s to the 80s, including vintage commercials & the catchy theme songs of old TV shows" said OPS Board Member Bob Anthony Fogal. "OPS plans to continue to serve our local community from 89.5FM as KEWU has done for nearly 75 years". "This is a huge victory for local broadcasting" said Keith Shipman, President of the Washington State Association of Broadcasters.
KEWU FM celebrated 75 years on the air as of April 7, 2025, the sale of KEWU will enable EWU to invest in opportunities that align with today's media landscape and the career goals of their students. Plans to continue an EWU station as a streaming-only option are under consideration, especially as it could showcase new student work. We reached out to OPS and we're told they weren't sure as of yet what will happen to their existing 107.1 FM frequency they will be vacating upon the approval of the sale from the FCC.
For more information on the Oldies Preservation Society, check their website at http://koolops.org
