Radio listeners in northwest Arkansas will wake up without a familiar voice tomorrow morning.

 

KURM Radio Owner Kermit Womack, known to listeners as "The Colonel" retired today after more than seven decades in broadcasting, and nearly 45 years running his own station.  Womack, who will turn 90 in September, says health issues were the primary reason for the decision.  In addition to his own retirement, Womack also signed off the station he and his son, current U.S. Congressman Steve Womack, started in 1979.  Steve says the effect of closing the station will be profound.

 

During KURM's last day, hundreds of people throughout northwest Arkansas and the surrounding area stopped by or called the radio station including numerous politicians, business executives, former employees and just regular listeners.  KGGF's James Copeland had the chance to speak with The Colonel, who had some kind words about The Mighty 690.

 

While the station is now silent, it's currently listed for sale at $2.5 million and can remain off the air for up to a year before the license expires.  Womack says he hopes someone will buy the station and continue his "community involvement" format that includes programs such as "Dial-a-Trade" and "Party Line" which have some similarities to KGGF's "Open Line."  The final sign-off message from The Colonel is available HERE.