The end of an era: Boots and Bob sell radio stations to Lonestar Broadcasting Group.

Bob Haschke (left) and Boots Elliot.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

Bob Haschke and Boots Elliott are stepping away from their beloved radio stations, KSTV FM, KSTV AM, KYOX FM and KCOM AM.

Bob, Boots and their partner Justin McClure are selling their corporation - VilleCom LLC - to Lonestar Broadcasting Group, which will take over operations on June 1.

“What a run!” Boots told Beneath the Surface News.

“Bob and I were employees of these stations for a few years before we took over in the mid 1990s. It’s crazy to believe how fast it has gone.

“These stations helped us raise our kids, support our families and, hopefully, provided the correct stewardship this community deserves.”

The Lonestar Broadcasting Group is owned by Kenneth and Heidi Witt.

The couple have moved to the area and have retained the staff who handles day-to-day operations.

“We would not have sold to the Witts if we didn’t believe that they understood the responsibility laid at their feet,” Boots said.

“We believe we have created a media group that locals have certain expectations. It’s now their turn to take the reins and move forward.”

Bob and Boots will continue to be part of the radio stations in a reduced capacity.

Bob will continue as a consultant to the sales team and Boots will continue to broadcast the Yellow Jacket and Honeybee games.

“A mentor of mine once told me that when you turn out the lights at night, the greatest assets of the company go home,” Boots said.

“Bob and I completely agree.

“We could not have taken this group of stations to these heights without some very special people – and that is the staff that have propped us up in this incredible journey.”

Boots and Bob back in the day...