To our wonderful listeners of Free Country 99.9 WFRE,
As we look ahead to 2026, we just want to pause and say thank you. Truly. You are the heart of this station, and we can’t thank you enough for being the most dedicated listeners in Frederick and for continuing to make WFRE #1 in the market for over 20 years. That kind of loyalty means everything to us, and we never take it for granted.
This coming year will bring some big changes, and one of the most emotional is the retirement of our legendary morning show host, Tom Whalen. WFRE will never be quite the same without his voice starting our mornings with the Free Country Wake Up Crew. He’s been part of your daily routine for decades, and part of the fabric of this station. While we’ll miss him deeply, we’re also excited for him as he enjoys a truly well-deserved break.
With change comes new beginnings, and 2026 is full of them. We’re excited to welcome a brand new morning show, “Andy and Emma in the Morning,” the husband-and-wife team waking you up from 5–10a. And don’t worry — Dianah Gibson, the other half of the Wake Up Crew, isn’t going anywhere… she’s just getting a little extra sleep before taking over middays from 10a–3p.
We’re also rolling out a brand new Live and Local afternoon show from 3–7p, keeping you company through the drive home. And as always, your friend Drew will be here to end your day with Free Country Nights from 7p–12a.
We truly believe this lineup will continue to make your days better — through listening, participating, laughing, and of course… winning. You’ll hear brand new bits throughout the day from all of our shows, and while the station may sound a little different at times, one thing won’t change: top-tier content and the country music you know and love.
And don’t worry — all your favorite WFRE traditions are still here. You’ll continue to see us out in the community at events like Kickin’ Up A Cure, the St. Jude Radiothon, Touch A Truck, Party in the Park, The Great Frederick Fair, Ladies Night, and so many more.
We hope you’ll keep listening, keep coming out to our events, keep hanging with us, and keep letting us know how we’re doing. Your support is what makes WFRE feel like more than a radio station — it makes it feel like home.
Here’s to new beginnings, familiar faces, and a truly great 2026.
We can’t wait to spend it with you.
❤️
Your friends at Free Country 99.9 WFRE