The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded more than a quarter million dollars to Radio Boise to buy broadcasting equipment, including a transmitter, an antenna and studio gear. The grant brings this community closer to the reality of a local, independent, noncommercial radio station.

Jeff Abrams, Radio Boise executive director, aims to start broadcasting — at 89.9 on your FM radio dial — as early as next spring.

One catch: Radio Boise has to raise money to get the money: $75,000 in local matching dollars.
Radio Boise will also require donations of up to $150,000 for their first year operating expenses, but the Department of Commerce grant is a huge step forward, Abrams said, and, after a rigorous application process, an affirmation of Radio Boise's hard work to get established. 

Abrams and Radio Boise supporters are planning a big fundraising event in December, and the station’s fundraising committee is focusing on raising the local match.

In the meantime, Abrams welcomes donations, new volunteers, and program proposals.

You should also check out the station online for more info and, until the day when 89.9 is officially fired up, listen via webcast.

Listened in myself on Saturday, and admit I was impressed with the”Sounds of Soul” program mix: Calexico, Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup, Celph Titled and Arcade Fire among others...and no ads!