Grand Rapids’ Joy99 (WJQK) and JoyWorship (WPNW) have a new General Manager following the death of Les Lanser, who owned the stations for 43 years. Abbi Hess joined Lanser Broadcasting in 2016 and represents the third generation of the founding family.
Les Lanser died on July 30 at 91. He purchased what is now WPNW in 1983 and added WJQK three years later, before moving the FM station to a Contemporary Christian format in January 1987. Brad Lanser will continue in a leadership and ownership role, providing overall vision and guidance as the organization enters its next chapter.
Lanser Broadcasting has been family-owned and operated since 1983. Joy99 (WJQK) broadcasts at 99.3 FM, while JoyWorship (WPNW) simulcasts on 1260 AM and FM translators at 96.5 and 98.9, reaching listeners across Western Michigan.
Hess said, “I am the third generation of our family to be involved in running these stations, and I am honored to continue carrying on the mission and vision. It is a blessing to follow in the legacy that has been built here. Our commitment has not changed: bringing encouragement and the love of Jesus to this community, every day, on every signal we operate.”
