On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the Wisconsin news and progressive-talk radio network, Civic Media, announced that it would be expanding its footprint in Milwaukee with the acquisition of heritage radio station urban AC WNOV (860 AM), its corresponding FM translator W293CX at 106.5, and the weekly Milwaukee Courier newspaper, assuming responsibility for both operations on January 1, 2026.
The deal marks a significant transition for two of the city’s most enduring black-owned media institutions. WNOV was purchased in 1972 by Courier Communications Corporation under the leadership of Dr. Jerrel Jones, becoming the first black-owned radio station in Wisconsin, while the Milwaukee Courier has served the community continuously since 1964. Following more than five decades of family ownership — and the recent passing of Dr. Jones — the Jones family has entrusted Civic Media with continuing that legacy.
As part of the transition, current WNOV owner Mary Ellen Jones will serve as a consultant, with Jerrel Jones assisting on the newspaper side. Civic Media also named Dr. Robert “Biko” Baker as Operations Manager for both WNOV and the Courier. A longtime civic engagement leader, political commentator and former editor of The Source, Baker will oversee efforts to invest in journalism and programming that serve Milwaukee’s Black community.
“My parents built The Milwaukee Courier and WNOV to give Milwaukee’s black community a voice when few existed,” Mary Ellen Jones said. “Passing that responsibility forward was not taken lightly. Civic Media is committed to honoring that legacy while investing in the future of trusted media.”
Civic Media CEO Sage Weil called the acquisition both an opportunity and a responsibility. “These are trusted institutions with deep roots in Milwaukee,” Weil added. “Our role is to steward that legacy while investing in their future — modernizing operations, expanding digital reach, and ensuring they continue to serve the community with integrity.”
Earnestine Jones, widow of Dr. Jones, said the family is confident the mission will continue. “We believed that accurate information is powerful and our voices matter,” she commented. “As my family passes the torch to Civic Media, we do so with trust.”
Dr. Jerrel Jones founded the weekly Milwaukee Courier newspaper in 1964 and was its president and CEO for 61 years. Jones started the newspaper during the Civil Rights movement and the desegregation of Milwaukee’s schools, a critical time for Milwaukee Black residents to have a platform that reflected their views.
Jones’ Courier Communications bought WNOV in 1972, making it the first Black-owned radio station in Wisconsin and one of 30 in the United States, according to the station’s website. He expanded his media holdings in 2013 with the purchase of the Madison Times, a Black newspaper in Madison.
Jones died earlier this year at the age of 85.
Local host Earl Ingram said the move signals renewed energy for WNOV, while Civic Media Regional President Chris Moreau emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting the station and newspaper across broadcast, digital and print platforms. “We’re committed to providing the resources and infrastructure to help this team serve the community through broadcast, digital and print media,” he remarked.
Dr. Jerrel W. Jones: Web Photo
