By Richard Smith
By Maggie Wright
Special to Independent Newsmedia
It is official. The Federal Communications Commission granted Jan. 23 to KSCW-LP its official license to broadcast as a low-power FM community radio station.
This is the result of more than four years of effort, and now the Sun City West Broadcast Club has a fully- functioning and licensed radio station rght in the heart of Sun City West.
From left, Ron Bevilacqua, Kurt Hauswirth and Keith Fowler set up a radio playlist for broadcast at KSCW-LP 103.1 FM, the radio station operated by the Sun City West Broadcast Club. The station was recently granted license to broadcast by the FCC.
The broadcast reaches Sun City West, Sun City, Sun City Grand, Corte Bella and parts of Peoria and Surprise. KSCW radio’s reach extends even further through its internet streaming arm at www. SunCityWestRadio.com. Not only does this Internet extension give KSCW radio and the Sun City West community worldwide exposure, but it also keeps the winter visitors abreast of their winter community when they are away for the summer.
The success of KSCW radio is due to a community effort — built from scratch by a core group of volunteer seniors. Interestingly, many of these senior volunteers did not have any previous radio experience, but instead they accomplished this feat by repurposing their skills from other backgrounds. This demonstrates the value of living in an adult community with many retired individuals donating their time and utilizing their skills from a broad array of experiences.
KSCW radio volunteers strive to provide a variety of music that the community likes, as well as to broadcast announcements and programs relating to local issues and events. Specifically, based on the results of a market research study that was conducted to determine what Sun City West residents wanted to hear on the radio, KSCW Radio offers a wide range of music, from golden oldie, soft rock and smooth jazz to gospel, country music and more. Homegrown music and talk shows have been added to the program roster, which can be found on the station’s program guide at www. SunCityWestRadio.com.
Community members who wish to share their opinion or get involved with the broadcast club can call 602-5381031, email suncitywestradio@ gmail.com drop by the radio studio 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Wednesday or Friday beginning March 1 at the Men’s Club, 13785 W. Meeker Blvd. The Sun City West Broadcast Club is planning a slew of fun social activities for 2017. The next club meeting is 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 22 in the Acacia Room at Palm Ridge Recreation Center, 13800 W. Deer Valley Road.
Visit www.broadcast.scwclubs. com or www.suncitywestradio. com.
Editor’s Note: Maggie Wright is Sun City West Broadcast Club public relations committee chairwoman.
