WKPR

WKPR is an AM radio station serving Kalamazoo, Michigan.

WKPR Kalamazoo began its broadcast life in 1960. An unusual result of the FCC hearing ahead of its creation was that two radio station license were granted at the same time. WKPR (1420 kHz), Kalamazoo, and WDOW (1440 kHz), a new service to Dowagiac. Both stations were constructed in 1960. They remained affiliates for many years. WKPR programming was a mix of Christian music and Bible teaching. WDOW programming was similar, but did have secular music segments at some times of day. In the late 1990s, WDOW (by then an AM/FM station) was sold, and by 2012, WDOW and WDOW-FM had different owners. At the same time, WKPR had been looking for a way to increase in power. This was not feasible at 1420 kHz. However, a substantial power increase would work at 1440 kHz. The engineers found that the former affiliate WDOW (1440 kHz) would need to be moved to Kalamazoo. Overtures were made to the owner of WDOW (1440 kHz). A sale agreement was made. Upon FCC approval, WKPR relinquished 1420 kHz and began broadcasting on 1440 kHz at the Kalamazoo location. Early in 2012, power went from 1000 watts to 2700 watts. Late in 2012, WKPR extended its programming further through the purchase and construction of an FM translator. The system was engineered so that the translator could be located at the WKPR site. The FM translator (w286au) located at 105.1 FM simulcasts 24 hours a day with WKPR. WKPR and its FM translator continues to offer Christian programming to the Kalamazoo Area. WKPR has always been a sister station to WFUR in Grand Rapids.