Dierking Communications, Inc. is thrilled to announce a significant investment in our radio stations in north central Kansas, ensuring our ability to serve the communities in this region for many years to come.
This month, KD Country 94, also known as 94.1 KDNS-FM, celebrated its 30th anniversary of broadcasting. In April 1994, Herb and Ruby Hoeflicker, operating as the Hoeflicker Broadcasting Corporation, launched the station, playing mainstream country music from a studio located near the picturesque Waconda Lake in Glen Elder, Kan. In March 1999, the Waconda Broadcasting Corporation introduced sister-station Z-96.3 The Lake, also known as 96.3 KZDY-FM, playing enjoyable oldies. In the summer of 2006, Dierking Communications, Inc., owned and operated by Bruce Dierking, acquired both KDNS-FM and KZDY-FM, joining sister-stations KNDY AM & FM in Marysville, Kan., as well as KQNK AM & FM in Norton, Kan.
Over the past two years, Dierking Communications has made significant technological upgrades at our studio, led by General Manager Wade Gerstner. These upgrades include bringing the music programming for KD Country 94 in-house and enhancing the presentation of Z-96.3 The Lake, featuring adult contemporary artists from the 1980s to the present.
To commemorate 30 years of broadcasting, we have begun the installation of state-of-the-art GatesAir transmitters for both stations. These new transmitters will enhance the reliability of our signal and provide a clearer reception for listeners across our coverage area. Additionally, those living on the outskirts of our broadcast area will experience improved reception. While the work is being carried out at the transmitter site in Glen Elder, there may be instances when our broadcast signal is weak or temporarily off the air. However, listeners can still enjoy KD Country 94 and Z-96.3 The Lake through our live internet stream at KDCountry94.com and Z963thelake.com, as well as our free mobile apps for Android and iPhone.
Work is expected to be completed by the end of May, with transmitter work beginning with Z-96.3 The Lake first, before moving over to KD Country 94.
