On Dec. 27, there will no longer be a place on the New York dial for Broadway standards. Disney has leased the New York station WQEW (1560 on the AM dial) for eight years from The New York Times Company and will change the station's format to children's programming.
WQEW took on the standards format in 1992. On Sundays, 7-8 PM, Bob Jones hosts a program of Broadway music. The station also broadcasts a show of the music of Frank Sinatra. The new format will feature top 40 songs, children's sports and commercials aimed at children.
WQEW host Jonathan Schwartz told the New York Times that the old format is currently searched for a new home. Talks are "ongoing and progressive," he said, adding that "people with money" are interested.
Disney will have the option to buy the station after eight years.
-- By Robert Simonson
