Northwest Public Broadcasting Gifted a New Radio Station
Northwest Public Broadcasting (NWPB) has received a significant in-kind gift and grant from the Sleeping Lady Foundation.
The gift includes the FCC license for KOHO 101.1 FM, as well as studio and broadcast equipment, tower facilities, and a long-term low-cost lease for studio and office space in Wenatchee. This investment allows NWPB to explore, develop, and implement local programming options.
The gift also enables NWPB to expand its content offerings and enhance its services in the Wenatchee area. With the addition of a local host and program director, NWPB aims to provide high-quality programming consistently to the residents of Wenatchee and surrounding areas.
This partnership reflects NWPB’s commitment to serving the community and providing real-world experience for Murrow students at Washington State University.
Gift Details
Overview of the gift
Northwest Public Broadcasting (NWPB) recently received a significant in-kind gift and grant from the Sleeping Lady Foundation. This gift includes the FCC license for KOHO 101.1 FM, which covers a large area in the Wenatchee Valley and surrounding areas.
In addition to the license, the gift also includes studio equipment, broadcast equipment, tower facilities, and a long-term low-cost lease for studio and office space in Wenatchee. The Sleeping Lady Foundation also provided a seed grant to allow NWPB to explore, develop, and implement local programming options.
Inclusions in the gift
The gift from the Sleeping Lady Foundation to NWPB includes the following:
- FCC license for KOHO 101.1 FM
- Studio equipment
- Broadcast equipment
- Tower facilities
- Long-term low-cost lease for studio and office space in Wenatchee
- Seed grant for exploring, developing, and implementing local programming options
Partnership with Sleeping Lady Foundation
Beginnings of the partnership
The partnership between NWPB and the Sleeping Lady Foundation began in April 2022 with a program and services agreement. As part of this agreement, NWPB broadcasted their KJEM student-run jazz programming originating in Pullman. This initial partnership laid the foundation for further collaboration and the expansion of NWPB’s content offerings.
Expansion of content offerings
The partnership between NWPB and the Sleeping Lady Foundation has resulted in the expansion of NWPB’s content offerings.
Through the gift, NWPB can complement its existing news and classical music/news services in the Wenatchee area by expanding the distribution of its KJEM Jazz service. Additionally, a local host and program director will be added to enhance the local programming and provide a more personalized experience for listeners.
Benefits of the Gift
Increased programming for residents of Wenatchee and surrounding areas
One of the key benefits of the gift from the Sleeping Lady Foundation is the increased programming it will bring to the residents of Wenatchee and the surrounding areas. With the additional resources and support provided by the gift, NWPB will be able to deliver high-quality programming more consistently, meeting the demand for community radio in the region.
Real-world experience for Murrow students
NWPB, as a community service of the Edward R. Murrow College at Washington State University, has always been committed to providing real-world experience for Murrow students. The generous gift from the Sleeping Lady Foundation will further enhance the opportunities for Murrow students to gain practical experience working for a news organization. This hands-on experience will prepare them for successful careers in the media industry.
Enthusiasm from Dean Bruce Pinkleton
Dean’s statement on the gift
Dean Bruce Pinkleton of the Murrow College expressed his enthusiasm about the latest development for NWPB. He highlighted how the gift will enable NWPB to serve the residents of Wenatchee and the surrounding areas with more high-quality programming consistently. Dean Pinkleton emphasized that this is a win for the region’s residents and for NWPB as an organization dedicated to delivering impactful content.
Expansion of NWPB Services
Complementing current news and music services
The gift from the Sleeping Lady Foundation will serve as a complement to NWPB’s existing news and music services in the Wenatchee area. By expanding the distribution of its KJEM Jazz service and introducing a local host and program director, NWPB aims to provide a more diverse range of content to cater to the preferences and interests of the local audience.
Introducing local hosts and program director
As part of the expansion of NWPB’s services, a local host and program director will be brought on board. This addition will not only personalize the listening experience for the audience but will also ensure that the programming reflects the local community’s needs and interests. The introduction of local hosts will create a stronger connection between NWPB and its listeners.
Sleeping Lady Foundation’s Award
In honor of Harriet Bullitt
The award from the Sleeping Lady Foundation is being made in honor of Harriet Bullitt, who has played a significant role in the broadcasting industry. Bullitt’s mother, Dorothy, was a pioneer in the industry, building King Broadcasting into a major player in TV and radio along the West Coast. By naming the award in Harriet Bullitt’s name, the Sleeping Lady Foundation pays tribute to her commitment to local media and community radio.
Alignment with NWPB values
Beth Stipe, the president of the Sleeping Lady Foundation Board of Directors, emphasized the alignment of values between NWPB and the foundation. Both organizations share a commitment to inspiring and educating citizens to enhance their communities.
This shared vision creates a strong foundation for the partnership and ensures that Bullitt’s passion for local media and community radio remains a vital part of life in North Central Washington.
General Manager’s Excitement
Opportunity to expand content offerings
Cara Williams Fry, the general manager of NWPB, expressed excitement about the gift from the Sleeping Lady Foundation. Williams Fry sees this as an opportunity to expand the content offerings provided by NWPB and to better serve the long-time listeners and supporters in Wenatchee. The additional resources and support from the foundation will enable NWPB to create hyper-local content and address the specific needs of the local audience.
Partnership with Sleeping Lady Foundation
Williams Fry also highlighted the positive partnership with the Sleeping Lady Foundation and their shared focus on putting the community first. The foundation’s commitment to community values and their understanding of NWPB’s mission make them an ideal partner. The collaboration between NWPB and the Sleeping Lady Foundation will ensure that their content offerings continue to reflect and serve the local community effectively.
Search for a Partner
Sleeping Lady Foundation’s search for a partner
The Board of the Sleeping Lady Foundation initiated a search for a partner to build on and preserve Harriet Bullitt’s KOHO legacy. Their search led them to NWPB, and the partnership began with a program and services agreement in April 2022. The initial agreement paved the way for further collaboration and the development of a strong base for community radio, featuring alternative genres like jazz and local news and events.
Partnership with NWPB
The partnership with NWPB emerged as the ideal fit for the Sleeping Lady Foundation’s goals and vision. The alignment of values, shared commitment to the community, and NWPB’s track record in providing high-quality programming made them a strong partner for the foundation. The partnership offers an exciting opportunity to bring the Sleeping Lady Foundation’s goals and the legacy of Harriet Bullitt to life through the expansion of NWPB’s content offerings.
Media Contacts
Contacts for Northwest Public Broadcasting and Sleeping Lady Foundation
For media inquiries or further information, please contact the following representatives:
Northwest Public Broadcasting:
- Joleen Laue – jlaue@wsu.edu
Sleeping Lady Foundation:
- Deborah Hartl – dhartl@sleepinglady.com
Career Expo at WSU
Opportunity for students to interact with employers
Washington State University (WSU) is hosting a career expo, providing students system-wide with the opportunity to interact with over 125 employers. The expo, scheduled for February 5, 6, and 13, will offer both in-person and virtual options for students to engage with potential employers. This event aims to bridge the gap between students and employers, facilitating meaningful connections and opening doors to future career opportunities.
In-person and virtual options
Recognizing the importance of flexibility, WSU’s career expo will offer both in-person and virtual options for students. This hybrid approach caters to the diverse needs and preferences of students, ensuring that they can participate in the expo regardless of their location or circumstances. The virtual platform will provide a convenient and accessible avenue for students to engage with employers, creating a seamless experience for all participants.
In conclusion, the generous gift from the Sleeping Lady Foundation to Northwest Public Broadcasting opens up exciting opportunities for the organization and the communities it serves. With expanded programming, real-world experience for students, and a commitment to local media, this partnership will have a lasting impact.
The alignment of values, enthusiasm from key stakeholders, and dedication to community-focused content will ensure the continued success of NWPB and its mission to inspire and educate citizens.
