IOLA, Kan. – Ad Astra per Aspera Broadcasting, Inc. (Ad Astra Radio) announces the acquisition of 101.5 KIKS and 1370/99.3 KIOL from longtime owners Tom and Monica Norris, effective July 1, 2023. Ad Astra Radio owns and operates nine other radio stations in Kansas as well as Hutch Putt, a miniature golf course in Hutchinson.
Ad Astra Radio began in 1986 with one station and is now in its second generation as a family-owned business. With the addition of the 101.5 KIKS and 1370/99.3 KIOL, Ad Astra Radio will become the largest family-owned radio company with 11 stations across Kansas. For more information, go to www.adastraradio.com.
Tom and Monica moved to Iola in 2000 and officially took over ownership of KIKS and KIOL in 2007.
“If you listen to any of their stations or visit adastraradio.com you know instantly that they’re really big on doing local news, sports and community service.” Tom Norris said.
“After being the caretakers for 16 years, we’re very grateful we’re able to hand off KIKS and KIOL to excellent local broadcasters like Ad Astra Radio…and are excited that they’re allowing us both to stay on as part of their team.” Monica Norris added.
Oftentimes, things in life do come full circle. Years prior, the couple met while working for Ad Astra Radio in 1990.
“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Tom and Monica for over 30 years. They are great, professional broadcasters that are passionate about local radio,” Ad Astra Radio president Chris Shank said. “At Ad Astra Radio our motto is your Hometown Radio Stations. We have a great experienced staff dedicated to local radio. As Tom said, our stations are alive with local news, weather, and sports as well as great music. We look forward to continuing that with Iola Radio.”
Listeners in Allen County and Southeast Kansas will soon be able to access a new and improved www.iolaradio.com. The stations are also in the process of being added to the Ad Astra Radio app.
