 Featuring a simulcast of the AM station and then later a beautiful music format, it was soon renamed WSAQ, and adopted a country music format in spring 1982.In 1999, original owner John Wismer died, and both WHLS and WSAQ were sold to Liggett Communications as part of Wismer's estate.Liggett also acquired then competitor Hanson Communications, owner of 1590 WHLX, 1380 WPHM, and 96.9 WBTI.