In 1989, as a result of the deregulation of the broadcast industry, it became possible to
consolidate the main studios with the other operations of the Catholic Communications
Network at the groups headquarters on Lantana Street in Corpus Christi. The John
G. and Marie Stella Kenedy Memorial Foundation granted KLUX funds to move the studios
as well as a boost in transmitter power from 3 kilowatts to 60 kilowatts,
effectively increasing the broadcast coverage area by 500%.
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Engineering Consultant, Dr. Fred Zellner, Standing next to the Transmitter site RF patch
panel and dummy load in the fall of 1989 prior to equipment testing |
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The project was no small feat, as it required intricate technical studies and showings to
convince the FCC to waive sections of its technical rules and grant the construction
permit to also move the transmitter. With the dedicated assistance of Dr. Fred Zellner,
a long time supporter of the broadcast interests of the Catholic Church in South Texas,
the daunting engineering studies were completed and the FCC granted the application
for changes.
At the same time, with the support of then Bishop Rene Gracida, the station revised its
on-air approach from a blocked, program length approach to its current "Easy
Listening" music and inspirational message format. The change was extremely
successful and catapulted the stations popularity to market prominence, allowing it to more effectively
compete for audience with local commercial stations. The messages of spirituality and
hope, mixed with the more recognized musical fare, were well received, mainly because the station
was not perceived as proselytizing or "pushing" Catholicism.
Instead, the messages were creatively incorporated in a seamless fashion into the musical
and other public service programming.
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Longtime morning show host
Gordon Clark
at the Console |
The Station continued to grow in popularity over the years, thanks to the help of
legendary broadcasters, such as the late Chuck McDowell and ever popular and
long time Corpus Christi broadcast veteran Gordon Clark, who commanded the
morning chair during the early days and well into the 90s.
