How did Placitas acquire its very own Public Radio Station?

December 14, 2024

Saturday, January 18, 2-4 pm

How did Placitas acquire its very own
Public Radio Station?

Saturday, January 18, 2 -4 pm: KUPR DJ, MC and star of stage and screen Keith Allen West will lead us through the history and the plans for 2025. (Rumors are he will come as The Phantom of the Opera). DJs and volunteers will also be present. Below are some teasers of what you will learn.

History: In 2013 the FCC opened a window for applications to operate a Low Power FM Radio Station. A group of Placitans met and found the idea interesting but challenging. Needs included a long-standing 501c3 applicant, understanding of technical requirements, money for equipment and software, a tower location for transmitter and antenna and a studio within line of sight of the antenna. Learn how an application was completed that lead to a Construction Permit in 2014. By spring 2015 they had a little money, equipment, software and a skeleton broadcast schedule. May 4, 2015 KUPR went on the air.

First 10 Years: Totally listener supported and volunteer powered, the station kept expanding. First, adding broadcasting hours, then streaming to the internet, moving into a larger space and more. Scores of volunteers, thousands of programming hours, dozens of live music events and countless hours of labor have gone into the story.

2025 Anniversary Year!

  • February 14, 6 pm: Dinner with Red Hot and Red, renowned Native American jazz trio, at La Estrella Event Center. Tickets on sale now at kupr.org.
  • March 1, 12:30 pm: Special screening of the film Convoy with Kris Kristofferson and Ali McGraw at The Guild Cinema in Nob Hill. Filmed in Placitas, Bernalillo and Algodones and beyond, it’s a classic western but with semi trucks.
  • March 16, 3-6 pm: St. Patrick’s Day Eve at Placitas Winery with traditional Irish music and food.
  • April 4, 4-7 pm “Ten years in the Bag”: Free open house at KUPR Studios with live music by Sandia Swing and Woolworth-style frito pies.
  • May 4, 2-5 pm: Anniversary Party  with Felix y los Gatos at Placitas Winery. One of the best party bands in New Mexico and a Placitas favorite, this event is not to be missed.
  • October 31, 6 pm: 5th Annual Gathering of Spirits at Placitas Winery.