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Uncover the Stories That Matter on KBCS’s “Making Contact” Program

Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or you’re a longtime listener, 91.3 KBCS Regional News is committed to bringing you personal life experiences from all angles. That’s why we’re inspiring you with award winning programs like “Making Contact”, a unique blend of storytelling and critical analysis that tackles some of the most pressing social issues of our time. 

The image is a promotional graphic for the KBCS program “Making Contact.” It prominently features the KBCS 91.3 logo at the top, along with the Bellevue College logo. The text describes “Making Contact” as an award-winning public affairs program that delivers international news and spotlights solutions from everyday people. The show’s airtime is listed as 5 AM on Thursdays. The design includes a blue and green color scheme with a background pattern resembling a web or network, symbolizing connections. A microphone icon is included, representing the show’s focus on giving a voice to everyday people. This image serves as a promotional tool for the “Making Contact” program on KBCS.

Each week, we bring you voices from across the globe, sharing stories of real people and the challenges they face. 91.3 KBCS Regional News “Making Contact” is a weekly radio program that delves into social justice issues with depth and compassion. The show goes beyond the surface of the news to find the people whose lives are intertwined with significant social trends and events. From environmental struggles to human rights, “Making Contact” provides not just information, but insight and empathy. 

If “Making Contact” has made you think, feel, or take action, consider supporting KBCS. Your donations help keep programs like this on the air and ensure that important stories are heard.

The image shows a red keyboard key labeled “Donate” with a heart symbol next to it. A finger is poised to press the key. This image serves as a button; clicking it will take you to the KBCS Donate page at https://www.kbcs.fm/donate/. 

 

Introducing “This Way Out” Your Window to Global LGBTQ News and Culture

At 91.3 KBCS, we believe in the power of inclusive storytelling and the importance of amplifying voices from all corners of the globe. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce “This Way Out”, a pioneering radio magazine that has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ news, culture, and rights for over three decades.

The image is a promotional graphic for “This Way Out,” an international LGBTQ radio magazine broadcast on KBCS 91.3. The background features a gradient of bright, rainbow colors blending into each other, symbolizing LGBTQ+ pride. In the center-left, there’s a logo consisting of a triangle with a globe in the middle. The globe is filled with colorful sound waves representing the radio format and global reach. The text “This Way Out” is written in bold black letters above the logo. To the right, there is a white bubble with the text “The International LGBTQ Radio Magazine” in a stylized font, emphasizing the show’s global and inclusive nature. Below this, there is smaller text that reads “Tuesdays @ 5AM,” indicating the broadcast time. At the top of the image is the KBCS 91.3 logo, which is a rectangular green and brown box with white text. The Bellevue College logo is placed subtly at the bottom center of the image, showing affiliation with the institution. The design is colorful and dynamic, with clear, contrasting text that is easy to read. The use of rainbow colors and the globe emphasizes the show’s focus on LGBTQ+ issues from a global perspective.

“This Way Out” is more than a radio show; it’s a global voice for the LGBTQ+ community. It shares stories that matter. From the beginning, it has focused on LGBTQ+ issues worldwide, highlighting both struggles and successes.

Whether you’re catching it live or enjoying the encore broadcast, KBCS This Way Out fits seamlessly into your weekly routine, providing an informative and engaging experience that leaves you feeling more connected to the global LGBTQ+ community.

Each episode offers a powerful mix of content. The Global LGBTQ+ News Roundup keeps you informed on the latest headlines, legal changes, and political shifts. You’ll hear interviews with activists, artists, and leaders shaping LGBTQ+ culture. The show also features new films, books, music, and art from LGBTQ+ creators. Historical segments reflect on key moments in the LGBTQ+ movement, reminding us of the journey so far. Special features dive into topics like mental health and intersectionality, offering fresh insights into the challenges faced by the community.

Message From The GM – September 2024

Summers End, Givings Beginnings

Dear friends and supporters of KBCS,

I want to start by expressing my deepest gratitude to each of you. Your unwavering support over the years has been instrumental in our recent accomplishments. For instance, your contributions have enabled us to launch our noon-hour educational programming featuring structured and fact-checked debates, which has been well-received by our listeners. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and the positive impact it has had on our programming. Your support is not just a financial contribution, but a validation of our mission and a testament to its importance. Together, we are working towards a shared goal of providing quality radio programming to our community, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

As the days grow shorter, the cool fall air becomes more invigorating, the trees begin to drop their leaves slowly, and the wild geese begin their annual migration, I want to take this opportunity to update you on some of our recent accomplishments here at KBCS and thank you for your generous support of our outstanding radio programming as we enter this most beautiful harvest season of giving and thankfulness.

Over the past several years, your financial and moral support has been the driving force behind KBCS’s exciting new chapter of growth and possibilities. Your contributions have not only allowed us to upgrade our aging infrastructure but also to fully embrace the advanced technology that defines the transformative digital age of radio broadcasting. Your support is not just integral to our success but also the reason we can continue growing and innovating. You are not just supporters but integral parts of our journey, and your contributions have been the catalyst for our growth and innovation. Your support has made you an integral part of our success story, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

Your financial support and other funding sources for KBCS have allowed us to build up a healthy contingency fund into our operating budget. This now allows us to hire additional full-time staff members who will be instrumental in creating more diverse and engaging programming. Your contributions are not just numbers on a balance sheet; they are the lifeblood of our operations. Donations from our loyal listeners and old friends across Puget Sound and beyond comprise over 85% of our yearly operating budget—the most significant and dependable portion of our funding. None of what we do would be possible without the support of our listeners like you. Your contributions are not just appreciated, but they are crucial to our continued success. We hope we can continue to count on your support in the future.

Our annual on-air KBCS fall fundraising campaign begins this Friday, September 20th. It is not just our most important fundraising campaign of the year but a testament to our value in your participation. We eagerly await your involvement, as it is crucial to our success. We can’t wait to celebrate our long friendship with you with special events and new KBCS-branded fall merchandise as a token of our appreciation at various giving levels of your support.

For all our new friends who have recently discovered this community radio gem on the radio, we look forward to a long and rewarding partnership as we continue our focus on building a stronger community by giving a broadcast voice to those who often struggle to be heard, celebrating each other’s cultures and traditions, while continuing to uphold the treasured heritage and culture of the beautiful Pacific Northwest that we are privileged to call home or, for others, our home away from home on the radio.

Thank you for your continued friendship and support of true democracy in action on the air here in the greater Puget Sound for over fifty years. Your past support has been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for your ongoing commitment to our cause. We could not have come this far without you.

Dana Lee Buckingham,

KBCS General Manager and Executive Producer of News and Public Affairs Programming

The Outta Towners: The Legacy of Soul Music Lives On


91.3 KBCS Jalisa Bass The image shows Jalisa smiling warmly at the camera, wearing a pair of stylish, large, round glasses. Her hair is styled in a bun with a headband that has orange and brown accents. She is wearing a green shirt, and the background shows part of a cozy room with artwork visible on the wall. The soft lighting highlights her friendly and approachable demeanor.91.3 KBCS Operation Assistant, Jalisa Bass reporting a wild introduction.

Social anxiety often shapes how I engage with the world, though it hasn’t taken away from my experiences. Like many in Seattle, I find comfort in familiar spaces and music. Long before moving to Seattle, both always were a constant in my life. I embraced a wide range of genres—Ray Barretto’s jazz-infused “Summertime”, Tom Waits’ gritty “The Piano is Drinking”, and the reflective hip-hop of Ab-Soul & Zacari’s “Do Better”. Music, for me, has always been a way to connect with my environment, bringing balance and clarity to the chaos.

Crescent Moonlighting

September 8TH Sunday night began serendipitously. The Waxing Crescent Moon hung low, casting shadows that twisted unnervingly.  The shadows stretched across the pavement like dark tendrils. Cool air whispered of the encroaching fall and carrying with it a chill that would have normally unsettled me. Just down the strip, at the foot of the Cathedral, a man in faded brown dockers sat motionless. His only company was the low hum of global news on a crackling portable radio. The Sunset Tavern loomed with a gritty exterior. Its worn-down charm more ominous than inviting, yet it pulled me in. I found parking immediately, something almost unheard of in the city. Thus, I felt like an omen that this night would be special. Tonight, I wasn’t running from the fear but it was carrying me like a charged chariot, propelling me forward with a strange excitement. The city itself was holding its breath, preparing for something beyond the ordinary.

The Sunset Tavern & Neighbors

After paying $12.50 for my ticket at the door and receiving the warmest welcome from the host, I entered through The Sunset Tavern’s backdoor, which evoked the spirit of prohibition-era speakeasy. The dimly lit space was illuminated by small candles scattered across tables. A neon sign was glowing faintly in the background and the atmosphere hummed with anticipation. It wasn’t hard to see why this venue draws people in—it’s equal parts intimate and quirky, the perfect setting for a night of music that would stay with me long after.

The image shows a cozy, dimly lit area of a tavern, likely a booth seating section with a whimsical mural of a crescent moon with a face looking toward a small table. The wooden walls are adorned with framed photos and decorations, including a mounted fish. The lighting is warm, casting an inviting glow from small candles on the tables and bar. A door marked “HEAD” can be seen in the background. The overall ambiance reflects a nostalgic, quirky vibe with a blend of retro decor, making it an intimate space for gatherings. 91.3 KBCS Jalisa Bass

At the bar, I met my neighbors, Morgan Paris Lanza and Keely. The image shows three people smiling at the camera in a warmly lit venue. To the left is Jalisa, wearing large, reflective glasses. She has a bright smile, illuminated by the colorful lighting in the background. In the middle is Keely, radiating a joyful, carefree energy with her wide smile and casual, relaxed appearance. To the right is Morgan Paris Lanza, smiling confidently. Morgan is a talented musician known for her contributions to the local music scene. The lighting gives the scene a vibrant, intimate feel, capturing the camaraderie and fun of the evening. 91.3 KBCS Jalisa BassAs I sipped on a Lavender Soda, I couldn’t help but feel how saxophonist Tyler Rogers, blend jazz, rock, and pop into a sound that both honors Seattle’s rich musical history and paves its own path. I had never been so seduced by a saxophone before. That night, I felt something new. A deep connection between body and mind, brought to life by the captivating tones of a saxophone. It wasn’t just a performance; it was an intimate conversation in melody, filling the room with free love and revolution. The image features a saxophonist performing live on stage in a dimly lit venue. The musician, blurred slightly in motion, stands with a saxophone in hand, positioned near a microphone stand. He is in front of a striped black and white background with soft, ambient lighting. Two large stage speakers are visible in the foreground, emphasizing the live performance setting. The image conveys the energy of live music in an intimate, moody atmosphere.But it’s not just the sax that defines this band’s unique energy—it’s the rhythm section that keeps everything grounded and approachable.

The OuttaTowners


The image captures a live performance by The Outta Towners on stage. In the foreground is vocalist Savanna Woods, energetically singing into the microphone. She wears a headband and has long dreads, with her expressive gestures matching the intensity of her voice. Next to her is the saxophonist, playing alongside the band, bathed in stage lighting. Behind them, you can see part of the drum set and a Nord Stage 3 keyboard, as well as other instruments that contribute to the dynamic atmosphere. The blurred, vibrant lighting gives the scene a lively, electric energy, perfectly encapsulating the raw passion of their performance.

While the saxophone entranced me, the real revelation came after the show. I was so captivated by The OuttaTowners that I looked up their vocalist, Savanna Woods. To my surprise, I learned that she had been a standout on Season 20 of The Voice, even earning a spot on Kelly Clarkson’s team. It was hard to believe that I had just witnessed such talent in such an intimate setting. Woods’ voice— a reminiscence blending the soulful depth of Etta James with the raw power of Janis Joplin—pulled me out of my saxophone-induced haze, grounding me back in reality. Her voice is both powerful and vulnerable, breathing life into lyrics that carry the spirit of soul music’s legacy.

The image captures The Outta Towners bassist, Matthew Crissey, performing live on stage. Matthew is seen playing his bass guitar, wearing a casual outfit of a t-shirt, shorts, and a bucket hat, giving off a relaxed and approachable vibe. He stands slightly turned toward the band, deeply focused on his instrument. In the background, you can see other band members and equipment, including a laptop on a stand and additional instruments. The stage lighting is a mix of vibrant purples and greens, adding a dynamic energy to the scene and reflecting the laid-back yet powerful atmosphere of the performance.

Bassist Matthew Crissey lays down steady, soulful grooves that effortlessly hold the band together. His playing is subtle but powerful, always driving theThe image captures a moment from a live performance featuring The Outta Towners keyboardist, Jacob Martin. He is seated behind a Nord Stage 3 keyboard, deeply focused on playing, with a laptop set up in front of him. Jacob is wearing a colorful, tropical-print shirt and a red cap that reads “CONSPIRACY THEORIST.” The stage is lit with purples and reds, adding to the lively atmosphere of the performance. In the background, the drummer is partially visible, adding depth to the scene. The setting reflects the intimate, energetic vibe of the venue, with Jacob’s keyboard playing adding layers of warmth and complexity to the band’s sound. music forward. Meanwhile, Jacob Martin on keyboards brings warmth and complexity, seamlessly balancing lead melodies and support. His charisma shows in every note. In contrast, drummer Luca Cartner adds a crisp, versatile energy with his relaxed yet dynamic style, giving the band an approachable feel. Together, this rhythm section forms a solid foundation that not only supports but also elevates the sax and vocals. Ultimately, The Outta Towners create an emotional experience on stage, reminding the audience that the legacy of soul music continues with passion.

Good Night Ya’ll

In a world where musical genres blur and overlap, The OuttaTowners stand as true fusion artists. They show that music doesn’t need to be a perfect fairytale to connect with people—it just needs to be real. Their music brings people together in ways few others can.

 

The legacy of soul music lives on, and The OuttaTowners are proudly carrying that torch. If you don’t believe me, check out the video below. 

Looking forward to your comments Washington.

Signing Off,

91.3 KBCS Jalisa Bass

 

 

 

 

 

KBCS In-Studio with Ben Black

Jazz vocalist, composer, and activist Ben Black stopped by the KBCS studio to discuss his music and a fundraiser he organized this past August at the Royal Room for the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. It’s a wide-ranging and uplifting conversation accompanied by Ben’s own music!

Join the Conversations of today with The Thom Hartmann Program – 9AM Monday thru Friday

thom hartmann

Thom Hartmann Program

Get involved in today’s critical discussions on the Thom Hartmann program, broadcast LIVE on 91.3FM KBCS HD-1 from 9am to 12noon, Monday through Friday.

As “America’s #1 Progressive Radio Show,” Thom Hartmann delves into a dynamic mix of current topics, including insights on figures like Tim Walz and pivotal events leading up to Election Day 2024, while engaging with callers nationwide. Join Thom Hartmann and his guests, Monday through Friday, 9AM to 12 noon.

Call 202-808-9925 during the Thom Hartmann Program to activate on the conversations of today. Join the conversation in his chatroom. Access the KBCS Audio Archives on the Thom Hartmann Program page to catch up on past discussions and stay informed! 

 

Democracy Now! on KBCS since 1999

Since 1996, Democracy Now! has been a source of independent news with in depth interviews with breaking stories from often unheard voices in mainstream media.

KBCS has been broadcasting Democracy Now! since 1999 on at 8AM Mondays-Fridays. 

Be sure to tune in to Democracy Now! on KBCS 91.3 FM HD-1

Please consider making a financial contribution to support KBCS today!

Listen to KBCS Live

 

Democracy Now logo

Democracy Now

Happy Pride!

KBCS Pride Month feature programs and weekly additions.

KBCS Pride

KBCS PRIDE Happy 50th Seattle

As Operations Manager, I was proud to schedule some feature LGBTQIA+ programs during our 4am timeslot on Wednesdays through JUNE.  Links to the show archives and the actual production pages are available for review and listening below. 

Featured programs on KBCS

WED – June 5th – A Different Kind of Coming Out: A ‘Nancy’ Pride Special

Coming out means taking a risk and sharing something deeply personal with another person. In this hour-long episode of Nancy, the critically acclaimed podcast about the queer experience, hosts Tobin Low and Kathy Tu bring you three stories about different kinds of coming out. We hear from two gay men of different generations about what it’s like to disclose their HIV status, a young woman who tracks down the queer role model she didn’t know she needed, and a young man trying to save his father’s life, even if it means a painful confrontation.


WED – June 12th – America Learn Your History: What Happened Before Stonewall

“America, Learn Your History” began as a popular Instagram series by composer and professor Bobby Wooten. Join us for our first radio special: Stonewall often gets credit for the beginning of the gay liberation movement. But there was an earlier riot, at Compton’s Cafeteria in San Francisco, and it was started by a transwoman. Bobby’s guests include actor Tituss Burgess and historian Dr. Susan Stryker

WED – June 19th – Black, Queer & Free: Living at the intersection of Blackness and Queerness

Stories about the joys – and challenges- of living at the intersection of Blackness and Queerness

WED – June 26th – Beyond Stonewall: From Power to Pride

A conversation with Gary Bailey, Larry Kessler, Sue Katz, Michael Bronski, Stephanie Burt, and Maura Healey about the LGBTQ movement, looking back 50 years to the Stonewall Uprising.
 

THIS WAY OUT

Be sure to TUNE IN to the weekly broadcast of THIS WAY OUT – LGBTQ News and information Tuesdays at 5am. Excited to have this program in our regular line up for our listeners and the community.

LIVING ON EARTH
And tune in next week, we bring back Living On Earth Wednesdays at 4am on KBCS, the award-winning environmental news program delving into the leading issues affecting the world we inhabit. Hosted by Steve Curwood, Living On Earth.

My apologies, the follow-through on advance notice and marketing is not always timed effectively.  KBCS is planning and developi with the upcoming summer and new fiscal year to get ready for the Fall.  It is exciting and a challenge. 

Bellevue College has opportunities for job positions, a few at KBCSI Please check out BC Opportunities for more information. Thanks to all of our DJ Volunteers and student supporters and campus colleagues.

THANK YOU for all of your support.  KBCS is listener supported community radio. If you find value or inspiration in any of our programming, please activate on supporting KBCS today with a financial contribution. https://www.kbcs.fm/donate/

We are rounding the end of our fiscal year TODAY, June 30th. Help us reach our $65,000 goal by the end of this fiscal year.
Thank you again for your listenership and support.

Stay tuned for more from 91.3FM KBCS HD-1, a public service of Bellevue College

Stay proud, stay strong and take care.
– Gregory D’Elia, KBCS Operations Manager

KBCS Featured Program Playlists: 

 

 

Join KBCS at the 53rd Annual Northwest Folklife Festival

NOrthwest Folklife Promotional PosterJoin KBCS at the Northwest Folklife Festival, May 24 – 27 at Seattle Center. We are proud to be part of the Folklife Festival again this year and will be sponsoring the Fisher Green stage. 

We’ll have a table next to the stage and hope that you’ll come by and say hello and pick up some swag. Most of all, we hope you’ll spend some time at the Fisher Green stage with us listening to this year’s amazing line-up of musicians. 

This year the Fisher Green stage will host a wide variety of musical styles including Folk, Celtic, Blues, Taiko drumming, and much more. For a full look at the artists that will be at the Fisher Green stage and others at the Folklife Festival, check out the festival schedule here. The festival is free and open to the public, but donations are encouraged to ensure that the festival can continue for years to come. 

The Northwest Folklife Festival is a longstanding tradition in Seattle and an opportunity to discover new types of music, learn about other cultures, and come together with others in our community. Please join KBCS at the festival and can’t wait to see you there!

KBCS is Hiring

KBCS is hiring two part-time positions. A Broadcast Reporter/Producer and Morning Board Operator/Announcer. If you or someone you may know think you may be a good fit, apply today.

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