KBTL

KBTL (88.1 FM) is a radio station broadcasting a College Radio format.^[1] Licensed to El Dorado, Kansas, USA, the station serves the Wichita area. The station is currently owned by Butler County Community College.^[2] The initial license was granted in 2001, although unlicensed programming (microwatt AM) began as early as 1999. Programming included eclectic shows by students in the Radio-TV-Film program broadcast live (10am-10pm M-F) with satellite programming from WCPE Wake Forest during off hours. In addition, all Butler Community College football, men's basketball and women's basketball games have been broadcast by students in the Sports Media program.

The early years were under the direction of Lance Hayes (director of King Kung Fu produced in Wichita) until his retirement in 2009. In August 2009, Dr. Keith West became faculty advisor and General Manager. A major overhaul of the station since 2009 has included new equipment from microphones to antenna, a locally programmed automation/assist system to increase diversity of programming 24/7 and an increase in community affairs/news programming. In August 2010, the station was renamed from All-Amateur Radio to Butler Radio with the introduction of G-Bear, a Grizzly bear butler in purple and gold tux (Butler Community College mascott is the Grizzly).

KBTL-FM and the Radio-TV-Film program have won more awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters than any other 2-year colleges in Kansas, and have tied or won more awards than many Kansas 4-year institutions. Plans are to continue to increase information programming, introduce regular audio drama and comedy performances, and establish a podcast/stream programming option in the coming months (as of June 2011).

References

External links

• Query the FCC's FM station database for KBTL
• Radio-Locator information on KBTL
• Query Nielsen Audio's FM station database for KBTL