WPLJ’s Expiration Date: May 31

• UPDATED: We all knew this day was coming; we just didn’t know exactly when — until now — this morning, Cumulus Media’s WPLJ/New York announced the expiration date of a legendary 48-year run — Friday, May 31 will be the station’s final day as the station we have known for five decades, as it prepares for its sale and transfer to Christian broadcaster Educational Media Foundation (EMF).

WPLJ posted the news to Twitter (which is rapidly filling up with memories posted by listeners and many former employees), accompanied by a promo that said, “The rumors you’ve been hearing are true — as hard as it is to believe, WPLJ will be going away on Friday, May 31. The format and personalities you’ve come to love over the years will no longer broadcast on 95.5. Forty-eight years ago, this iconic radio station signed on the air. We can’t help but think of all the music, the personalities, the concerts, the prizes, all the fun we had. We had a great time together, and we will never forget those times. The coming weeks will bring the end, and over the years we made some incredible memories. And we’re so glad that we became the best of friends, we never took your friendship or loyalty for granted, and we will be forever grateful. From all of us at 95.5 PLJ, thank you for listening.”

• We understand that Hot AC sister WRQX (Mix 107.3)/Washington, which is also in the process of being sold to EMF, will soldier on for a while longer as it awaits its 30-day notice prior to the closing.