By 1808Delaware
As reported in RadioInsight, listeners in Delaware and Columbus may have noticed a significant change on their dials this week. ICS Communications’ radio stations — 1580 WXGT and Delaware’s 1550 WQCD, along with their 92.9 FM translators — have once again switched formats, continuing a rprogramming changes over the last 12 months.
From Oldies to “Rumba”: A Quick Flip
On Tuesday, ICS Communications dropped its Oldies format, “My 92.9,” and unveiled a new Spanish Tropical sound under the temporary brand “Rumba.” This format change marks the beginning of a new local marketing agreement (LMA) with Spanish-language programming consultant Daniel Melendez, who brings deep experience in the Central Ohio Hispanic radio scene.
A Temporary Beat Before a Familiar Return
While “Rumba” offers a vibrant mix of Latin rhythms, the station’s owners have announced that it’s only a temporary stop. On April 1, both stations will flip to Regional Mexican under the name “La Grande 92.9.”
That name might sound familiar to longtime listeners. “La Grande” was once the flagship brand for Spanish-language station WWLG 102.5 FM in Baltimore, Ohio, until its operator, Radio One, ended the format last fall in favor of running “Mega 103.1” WVKO-FM. Now, “La Grande” is poised for a comeback — this time, with Daniel Melendez at the helm once again.
Melendez previously programmed WVKO-FM under its former operator TSJ Media, giving him a strong connection to both the brand and the audience it serves.
A Broader Trend in Local Radio
The reemergence of “La Grande” is part of a broader shift in local radio, as stations seek to serve diverse and underserved communities in an ever-fragmenting media landscape. For the Hispanic community in Delaware and Columbus, the return of this trusted voice on the airwaves is likely to be a welcome one.
