Later this fall, we will mark our second year of broadcasting as KZSM 104.1 LPFM. We were already reaching listeners all over the world through our 24/7 live stream over KZSM.org, but expanding to the radio dial added new listeners and drew us into the venerable traditions of terrestrial radio.
Most importantly, with the broadcast license came a critical responsibility. Painfully aware of the need for communication in emergencies after the devastating flood of 1998, the city of San Marcos first applied for and eventually acquired the broadcast license that they later gave to us. We now operate the EAS (Emergency Alert System) and will provide crucial information in the event of emergencies.
Right now, KZSM 104.1 LPFM broadcasts at very low power. Why? because a more powerful signal would technically be interfering with a station in Wimberley that unfortunately shares the 104.1 MHz frequency. The Federal Communications Commission requires KZSM to broadcast from at least 15 miles away from that station to avoid interference. To broadcast at maximum power, we must move our radio transmitter and antenna from the roof of our studio at 216 North Guadalupe to a new tower.
We have located a tower and are arranging the move right now. Once the move is complete, you’ll no longer be losing that live performance by your favorite local artist to a blast of static as you drive away from downtown. And for emergencies, our signal will reach farther into the flood plains of the San Marcos and Blanco Rivers.
Our programming will still originate from our downtown studio, but our signal will emanate from the tower. To produce that powerful new signal, we will need new equipment and rent for our space on the tower. So we need you to help us Power the Tower!
Join us this Tuesday, Sept. 16 from 6-9 p.m. on the lawn of the Hays County Courthouse, 111 East San Antonio St., for our first Power the Tower celebration, featuring live music, food, vendors, games and prizes. This free event features performances by Kali Rose KB, Justin James Bridges, Will Riley, Westcoast Bang’n, Echo Page and E. Z. Maldonado of Loose Screws and Rusty Hearts. You can donate to score a limited edition Power the Tower t-shirt or bumper sticker. Every dollar will help to extend the many voices of KZSM, your True Community Radio Station, into new territory.
