L.A.'s 'Playlist' Gives Way to EMF's Christian CHR 'Air1'

The Los Angeles market's "Jill 92.7" never quite caught on. So it became Adult Variety Hits "Playlist 92.7" -- but now that has also come to an end, as EMF (Educational Media Foundation) takes over under an LMA, airing its non-commercial Christian CHR "Air1" Radio, "The Positive Alternative" programming.on Amaturo Group’s three Southern California stations, all simulcasting on 92.7 FM. The three stations are KLST-FM, Fountain Valley; KLSI-FM, Thousand Oaks; and KLSN-FM, Adelanto. The stations all surround Los Angeles, together covering most of the market area. "Jill," using the slogan "We play everything," was similar to "Jack" but targeted female demographics. "Playlist" offered a more generalized version of the variety format. "Jill" had replaced AC "Lite 92.7" not long after KCBS-FM launched a "Jack FM" format. KLST-FM broadcasts to Orange County, KLSI-FM covers primarily the Conejo and Simi Valley areas, and KLSN-FM broadcasts to the Victor Valley area.

UPDATE Dec. 4: We now have the official word that EMF is buying the three stations. Some questioned why the LMA began before a sale was announced. Says EMF President and CEO Mike Novak, "Working with and getting to know Joe Amaturo has been a rewarding experience. We are looking forward to seeing lives impacted in a positive way." Amaturo adds, "Passing along my final broadcast properties through Mike Novak and Joe Miller of EMF which organization truly reflects their outlook on life, on doing good, and in a professional and kindly manner. Whether buying or selling, when dealing with people of integrity, all problems are more easily resolved and in that manner, achieve happy results for all concerned parties."

UPDATE Dec. 5: The EMF purchase of the three Amaturo 92.7 FM stations now reaches the FCC, and we learn that the price is $8,788,500. The filing reveals that's $2,138,500 cash, with the rest in a 10-year promissory note. The deal also includes a booster for KLST-FM in Malibu Vista.

And, as we originally reported, in an unrelated deal in Santa Barbara, EMF's "Air1" takes over 97.5 FM's programming, on what had been AC KRUZ-FM. EMF is obtaining the station from Cumulus in a trade for KXPC-FM, Lebanon, Oregon. The EMF programming begins before that deal is finalized, but when it is Cumulus will retain the KRUZ call letters.