the

tication was fed to 284 independent radio stations, four major radio networks, and the three major television networks.

After nearly 30 years in Punxsutawney and years of broadcasting with his “radio voice,” the “Erhard era” ended with the announcement in January 1981 of the sale of radio stations WPME-AM and FM. The assets owned by the Erhards were transferred to a radio corporation that owned many local radio stations. To follow will be new owners, new call letters, and different station numbers. WPME became history in Punxsutawney, held in memory by many older residents who have known the Erhards and the radio programs of over 50 years ago.

A final chapter in Hometown will conclude the local radio experience with WECZ-AM and WPXZ-FM and more with “brand identity” of music to specialized and targeted audiences, XM radio, internet and “streaming.” • • •