LOCAL RADIO
KZSM 104.1 FM has long been a lifeline for the San Marcos creative community. From broadcasting the first radio play of aspiring singer-songwriters to offering small businesses and local event organizers a way to reach their neighbors, the station has served as a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. But today, that very platform is in jeopardy — and the community is stepping up.
In response to urgent funding needs, local volunteers are organizing a grassroots campaign to raise awareness and support for the station. The event, dubbed the “Bucket Brigade,” will take place on Friday, July 18, from 12 to 3 p.m. at the intersection of SH-21 and SH80 and again on Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wonder World Drive and Hunter Road. Supporters will stand at these busy intersections with donation buckets and signs, encouraging passersby to scan a QR code or drop in some loose change. It all adds up. The goal is to help save the station one dollar at a time.
The Bucket Brigade serves as a lead-in to a larger celebration on Saturday night: the KZSM Sock Hop Fundraiser, held from 6 to 10 p.m. at the VFW Hall, 1701 Hunter Road. Featuring live music by John Michael & the Retro Cats, a best-dressed contest, food, a raffle, and plenty of dancing, the event invites the community to come together in support of the station in true San Marcos style.
Melissa Doss, one of the Bucket Brigade organizers and founder of the Lonely Hearts Art Club, sees this moment as a crucial one for those who’ve benefited from KZSM’s support over the years.
“If you’re a musician who got your first airplay on KZSM, if you’ve ever promoted your event, your nonprofit or your business through this station — it’s time to give back,” she said. “This station has been the glue that holds our creative community together.”
Station board president Jeremy Garrett has echoed that sentiment in recent weeks, emphasizing that KZSM has always prioritized local voices, homegrown talent and community connection over commercial programming. Volunteers, not paid staff, keep the station running. Its survival depends on donations, community partnerships and the willingness of people to stand up for what it represents.
The Bucket Brigade is open to anyone who wants to participate — no signup required. Those interested can simply show up at either location, or reach out to Doss on Instagram at @lonelyheartsartclub.
“We’ll bring the signs, the buckets, and the playlists,” she said. “Just bring your heart.”
For more information on the station or to make a direct donation, visit kzsm.org.
