Franklin Broadcasting Corporation (WLQM-FM & WLQM-AM) has a rich, family history of providing unduplicated, quality “local” radio for the Western Tidewater, Greater Hampton Roads and Northeastern North Carolina market since 1956.           

In 1956, Thomas F. Clark also purchased WYSR and began three generations of local, family ownership. For the next 30 years, the Franklin - Southampton market was served by AM 1250-WYSR, operating with 1,000 watts from sunrise to sunset. Thomas Clark retired in 1977 and his son Pete Clark assumed General Manager responsibilities.  

In 1988, Pete Clark signed on Western Tidewater's FM station at 101.7 and changed the call letters of both stations to WLQM.  After Thomas Clark's death in the early 90’S, ownership passed to Pete.  In 1999, WLQM-AM ceased simulcasting the FM’S programming and launched a separate, full-service, 24-hour format of Urban Gospel, calling itself: AM 1250 "The Light”.  

In 1991, Pete's son, Michael Clark, joined the staff at Franklin Broadcasting Corporation and in 2000 assumed the role of General Manager. At the time of Pete's death in 2006, Micheal was appointed Vice President - General Manager and assumed co-ownership of FBC along with is mother, Brenda Clark. 

Today, both stations proudly remain under the same local family management and ownership for a third generation!

Michael Clark at the old WLQM studios in the old Belo Shopping Center - 1996

Take a look at some more photos of the WLQM Family: