PA Radio: WCNS Latrobe Drops N/T For A/C

Latrobe-based AM radio station WCNS 1480 announced Friday a change in its programming format from talk to adult contemporary music, branding as Lite Favorites 1480 WCNS.

The move comes as Laurel Highlands Total Communications — the parent company of LHTC Media, the station's owner — anticipates FCC approval for W247CX translator FM sister station at 97.3 FM that would simulcast the AM station.

W247CX 97.3 FM (90 watts)

According to General Manager Brandon Kail, WCNS will continue to air coverage of Greater Latrobe High School football and basketball as well as Saint Vincent College football and basketball.

“We'll continue to have local news updates,” Kail said in a press release, adding that the station's “weekend talk blocks will continue as will the Sunday church services we broadcast.”

Kail explained the new music format, geared to those 45 and older, features songs spanning five decades, back to the 1970s — from artists like Adele, Celine Dion and Billy Joel.

The talk format that had aired on WCNS can be heard on PA Talk 98.7 FM, which simulcasts WAVL 910 AM in Apollo, PA.

WCNS 140 AM (500 watts-D, 1 Kw-N)

In June, the company finalized acquisition of several stations in the Morgantown/Fairmont area of West Virginia, including WZST-FM, the flagship station for West Virginia University sports; WRLF-FM, a classic rock station; WMMN-AM, a Fox Sports affiliate; and WTCS-AM.

“Our goal is to have four FM frequencies in Morgantown,” Kail said.