Finger Lakes Radio Group Purchased by Digital Entrepreneur - After 23 Years, Ownership Changes, but Commitment to Serving Local Communities Carries On

After more than 23 years of ownership, Finger Lakes Radio Group owner Alan Bishop has entered into a definitive agreement to transfer ownership of the company to Scott Swanson, a fellow entrepreneur and digital media veteran. The deal puts the Finger Lakes region’s most respected broadcast operations under the control of a veteran digital media veteran with a passion and track record of helping small businesses succeed through media and advertising.

The transaction includes seven radio stations — WNYR, WLLW, WFLK, WAUB, WGVA, WFLR, and WCGR — along with FLX Digital and FingerLakesDailyNews.com, which together serve the communities of Geneva, Canandaigua, Seneca Falls, Penn Yan, Auburn, and surrounding areas.

Bishop said the decision was guided by a desire to find the right long-term steward for the stations, their employees, and the communities they serve.

“This company has always been about local connection and local trust,” Bishop said. “Scott understands the role these stations play in people’s daily lives, and he understands what it takes to operate a strong local media business. I’m confident this is the right next chapter.”

Incoming operator Scott Swanson emphasized continuity, not change, as the defining principle of the transition.

“This is already a strong operation with deep roots in the community,” Swanson said. “My job isn’t to reinvent it — it’s to support the people who make it work, protect what makes it special, and help ensure it remains strong for decades to come.”

Swanson noted that radio remains uniquely positioned to serve local audiences and businesses.

“Radio reaches people in real time, through voices they know and trust,” he said. “That trust is hard-earned, and it’s incredibly valuable — especially for local businesses trying to connect with their customers in a meaningful way.”

He added that Finger Lakes Radio Group stood out during his evaluation of multiple ownership groups.

“This was the most disciplined and well-run local media operation I encountered,” Swanson said. “That doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a direct reflection of Alan’s leadership and commitment to fostering community.”

As part of the transition, Frank Lischak has been promoted to General Manager and will continue to oversee day-to-day operations, including sales, programming, and community engagement.

“The stations will continue to be run by the same team, with the same local focus,” Swanson said. “That’s essential.”

The acquisition includes the group’s studios, offices, and broadcast facilities, along with the transmission infrastructure that enables reliable coverage across the Finger Lakes region.

The transaction is expected to close following customary regulatory approvals. Pending approval by the Federal Communications Commission, TOTIB Media will operate the stations under a time brokerage agreement beginning January 1, 2026. Financial terms were not disclosed.

About Scott Swanson

Scott Swanson is a media and advertising operator with experience in broadcast, digital media, and marketing. He has worked with both national and local businesses on media strategy and advertising effectiveness and has held leadership roles in media and technology companies. A dedicated husband, father of two and veteran, Scott served as a U.S. Navy submarine sonar technician.