FCC Moves to Revoke Licenses of Sovereign Communications

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 16, 2026 | 10:06pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission has launched a license revocation proceeding against Sovereign Communications, LLC, the Sault Ste. Marie, MI-based broadcaster led by William C. Gleich, who is professionally known as Bill Curtis, and his business partner Tim Sabean.

In an Order to Pay or Show Cause adopted and released February 13, 2026 (DA 26-156), the FCC directs Sovereign to either pay outstanding regulatory fees or explain why the payment should be waived or deferred.

The proceeding covers seven stations: WKNW-AM and WSUE-FM in Sault Ste. Marie; WNBY-AM and WNBY-FM in Newberry; WYSS-FM in Sault Ste. Marie; WMKD-FM in Pickford; and WSOO-AM in Sault Ste. Marie.

According to the FCC, Sovereign failed to pay or fully pay regulatory fees for fiscal years 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The Commission's records show a total outstanding balance of $37,250.51, including late-payment penalties, interest and administrative costs, with additional interest continuing to accrue until the debt is paid.

The Commission has ordered Sovereign to remit full payment within 60 calendar days of the Order's release date or to show cause why the fees are inapplicable or should be waived or deferred. The Order warns that failure to respond within the specified time frame could result in revocation of the stations' licenses.

The FCC also noted that Sovereign has an overpayment of $9,240.33 on the referred debts and may request that amount be applied to reduce the delinquent balance.

Sovereign Communications has operated the stations for more than 15 years after acquiring them from Northern Star Broadcasting. The outcome of the proceeding will determine whether the group can retain its licenses or faces potential revocation if the debt remains unresolved.