KTAO ("KTAOS 101.9") is a solar-powered FM radio station licensed to serve Taos, New Mexico. The station is owned by Taos Communications Corporation. It airs an adult album alternative music format. The station was assigned the KTAO call letters by the Federal Communications Commission on October 6, 1986.
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Radio
History
KTAO's transmitter was in the town of Taos prior to 1991. Following FCC approval to increase to 1,200 watts, a new transmitter site was needed. A new transmitter was located at 10,800-foot Picuris Peak, which does not have grid power. According to former owner Brad Hockmeyer, solar power was the only option. The high-altitude location of its transmitter gives KTAO rimshot broadcast coverage from as far south as Albuquerque, New Mexico, and north into southern Colorado. This broadcast area is the largest of any solar-powered station in the world. On June 8, 2010, Brad Hockmeyer sold KTAO and the Solar Center to Katie Speirs, gaining controlling interest of KTAOS Solar Radio 101.9 FM, and the KTAOS Solar Center, a full bar, restaurant, and music venue attached to the operating radio station office building.
KTAO is the largest solar powered radio station in the United States.
Awards
New Mexico Broadcasters Association (2011)
NMBA Station of the Year
Public Service Announcement: "Holiday Shop Local Campaign"
Station Promotional Announcement: "Testimonial Campaign"
Complete Newscast: Paddy Mac in the Mornings
Single Topic News: Brad Hockmeyer interview with Tom Udall
30 Second Commercial: "Gay Pride Taos - Gayest Dog Wash EVER"
30 Second Commercial: "Taos Solar Music Festival 2010"
NonSports Talk Show: Paddy Mac in the Mornings Valentine's Day Matchmaking
Sports Talk Show: Tigerbeat
Best of Taos (2011)
Best DJ: Paddy Mac
Best Live Music Venue: The KTAOS Solar Center
Solar Powered Radio Station Video
Solar Center
The KTAO studio offices are located five miles north of the town of Taos in El Prado. Outside the studio and offices is a festival-style performance venue that includes a tent that allows KTAO to host events year-round. The site is located equidistant from Taos Ski Valley and the Historic Town Center, and beneath the tallest peak in New Mexico. The concert space adjoins the home of two radio stations, solar powered KTAOS 101.9 FM and Luna 103.7 FM. Food services are available to concert-goers.
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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