WMKB is a commercial FM radio station broadcasting on 102.9 MHz and licensed to Earlville, Illinois, United States. The station serves the northern Illinois market, covering communities such as Mendota, La Salle, Amboy, and surrounding areas.
Technical parameters
- Effective radiated power (ERP): 2,150 watts
- Height above average terrain (HAAT): 170 metres (560 ft)
- FCC facility ID: 88204
- Station class: A
Ownership
WMKB is owned by KM Communications, a broadcasting company that holds the station’s license through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Programming format
The station currently airs an automated classic‑rock music format. Throughout its history, WMKB has undergone several format changes:
- 2003–2012: Launched on February 3, 2003 with a classic‑rock format.
- January 2, 2012: Switched to a regional Mexican format branded “102.9 Mex Mix.”
- 2020–2021: Experienced an extended period of dead air following a severe thunderstorm in November 2020; the transmitter remained off until April 1, 2021.
- Early 2022: Briefly returned with NowMedia network programming, featuring Spanish news/talk and overnight oldies music, but spent most of 2022 silent.
- January 10, 2023: Resumed a regular broadcast schedule.
- September 29, 2023: Filed an application to remain silent for an extended period.
- Late 2023–early 2024: After nearly a year off‑air, the station resumed broadcasting with its classic‑rock format.
Regulatory status
The FCC has extended WMKB’s license through December 1, 2028. As of late 2023, the station applied for authority to remain silent pending operational decisions.
References
- Federal Communications Commission licensing records (Facility ID 88204).
- Broadcasting & Cable Yearbook (2010) listing technical specifications.
- Radio Insight report on format change (January 4, 2012).
- Historical FCC FM Query data and public inspection files.