WLCO-AM Sold to Smile FM

Townsquare Media has filed an application to transfer the license of WLCO-AM (Lapeer) to group operator Smile FM, based in Imlay City.  The application was filed on September 14.  The proposed Assignee (Smile FM) is also applying to convert the station to noncommercial/educational classification.  WLCO is a 5kw daytimer on 1530 kHz with a two-tower directional antenna.

The station signed on in November of 1962 at WTHM.  This is the first AM acquisition for Smile FM,  which owns 20 non-commercial FM stations, primarily in Michigan.  It has also a pending application to acquire another FM in Arkansas and was awarded permits for two new FMs, one in Michigan, another in Tennessee during the recent auction.