The non-profit organization has diversified its offerings, presenting a mix of 20th-century nostalgia on 105.7 FM and WTHA-FM 88.1. This unique format encompasses music from the 1920s and 1930s, big band, the early blues, rock ‘n’ roll, country, soul, polka, and more, extending its reach beyond the greater Philadelphia region currently served by WRDV-FM 89.3 in Hatboro, eastern Montgomery County; 107.3 in Philadelphia; 97.1 in Bensalem, lower Bucks County; and 91.7 in Bristol and Levittown, lower Bucks County.
President of the Bux-Mont Educational Radio Association, Charles Loughery, expressed that they considered these areas part of the Delaware Valley and thus welcomed the expansion.
Radio Delaware Valley has a rich history, originating from the Centennial School District in Bucks County in 1979 when it was known as WCSD 89.3. By 1980, Loughery, a communication student at the time, had transformed it into a non-profit organization. The station has grown over the years, evolving from a membership organization to being governed by a Board of Trustees.
General Manager Fred Rice highlighted the station’s commitment to offering unique music formats and avoiding the “tried and true formats” often found on radio. Unlike most stations, RDV DJs have the freedom to choose their own music, leading to a mix of old and new sounds.
Moreover, the station is involved in training individuals aspiring to have careers in broadcasting. It also features public affairs programming, a community bulletin board promoting local nonprofit events, and broadcasts area church services on Sundays from 7 a.m. to noon.
Radio Delaware Valley has expanded its reach through streaming, with listeners tuning in from various parts of the world, including England, Germany, and Florida, as well as travelers to the Jersey Shore.
The station’s funding is primarily derived from its annual fund drive and contributions from business and corporate sponsors. It continues to attract a diverse listener base, including millennials in their 20s and 30s who are devoted to the station.
Radio Delaware Valley will hold its annual fund drive from October 15 to November 4, and an open house is scheduled for Saturday, November 11, from noon to 4 p.m. at its studio located at 126 S. York Road in Hatboro.
About Radio Delaware Valley:
Radio Delaware Valley is a non-commercial, educational, public radio station operated by the Bux-Mont Educational Radio Association, a nonprofit organization. It can be heard on WRDV 89.3 FM in Warminster, PA, 107.3 FM in Philadelphia, PA, 97.1 FM in Bensalem, PA, 105.7 FM in Lansdale, PA, WLBS 91.7 FM in Bristol-Levittown, PA, and on WTHA 88.1 FM in Berlin, NJ.
