KTIX: Oregon's Broadcast Beacon
A deep dive into the history, programming, and technical evolution of Pendleton's enduring radio voice.
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Station Overview
Station Identity
KTIX, broadcasting at 1240 AM, is known on-air as 103.1 The Outlaw. It is a radio station licensed to serve the community of Pendleton, Oregon, United States.
Ownership & License
The station is currently owned by Elkhorn Media Group, operating under the broadcast license held by EMG2, LLC. This ownership structure reflects a commitment to local broadcasting within the region.
Technical Specifications
KTIX operates on a frequency of 1240 kHz with a Class C license, transmitting at 800 watts of power (unlimited). Its transmitter coordinates are located at 45°41′06″N 118°51′17″W. A translator, K276GF, extends its reach on 103.1 FM in Pendleton.
Programming & Affiliations
Current Format
KTIX currently features a Classic Country music format, broadcast under the branding 103.1 The Outlaw. This format appeals to listeners seeking traditional country music hits.
Sports Broadcasting
The station has a significant history in sports radio. It previously affiliated with ESPN Radio and now carries programming from Fox Sports Radio. KTIX is also an affiliate for major professional and collegiate sports, including the Seattle Mariners (MLB), Portland Trail Blazers (NBA), Seattle Seahawks (NFL), and Oregon Ducks football.
Local Sports Coverage
Beyond professional and collegiate sports, KTIX actively engages with the local community by broadcasting high school football games. This includes select sporting events featuring the Pendleton High School Buckaroos, underscoring its commitment to local athletics.
Broadcast Facilities
Studio Operations
KTIX shares a modern studio facility with its sister stations, including KUMA (AM), KUMA-FM, and KWHT. This integrated facility is strategically located near the Western end of Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, facilitating efficient operations and content production.
Transmitter Evolution
The station's transmission infrastructure has evolved over time. The original tower, erected on South Hill in 1941, served KTIX for over six decades until 2002. A new tower has since been established near the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport. The historic original tower was later relocated to Cabbage Hill, east of Pendleton, for use by co-owned KUMA-FM.
Station History
Inception (KWRC)
The station commenced regular broadcast operations in May 1941, initially known as KWRC. It operated with 250 watts on the 1240 kHz frequency under the ownership of the Western Radio Corporation, a group led by V.P. Kenworthy.
Transition Years (KKID)
In 1959, the station's call sign was changed to KKID. By early 1961, authorization was granted by the FCC to increase daytime power to 1,000 watts, while nighttime power remained at 250 watts. Ownership transitioned through WSC Broadcasting Company of Oregon, Inc., and later Roderick Sound, Inc.
The KTIX Era
The call sign was updated to the current KTIX in 1964. Eastern Oregon Broadcasters, Inc., acquired the station and implemented a contemporary music format, which persisted throughout the 1970s. Subsequent ownership changes included Capps Broadcasting Group. The station reverted to a country music format in January 1980 before being sold to AgPal Broadcasting, Inc.
Modern Ownership
AgPal Broadcasting later sold the station back to Capps Broadcast Group (via KSRV, Inc.) in 1998. In a significant transition, Elkhorn Media Group acquired KTIX, along with nine other broadcast properties, in November 2017, continuing its legacy in the Pendleton market.
Notable Former Staff
Dave Donahue
A distinguished figure in radio, Dave Donahue, a 2000 inductee into the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame, began his career as a disc jockey in a country music format at KTIX in 1960. His early experience laid the foundation for a celebrated career.
Terry Herd
Terry Herd, the host of the nationally syndicated program Into the Blue and a four-time recipient of the International Bluegrass Music Association's Broadcaster of the Year Award, launched his influential bluegrass radio program in May 1992. His broadcasts were aired on KUMA and subsequently on KTIX before achieving national syndication.
External Resources
Public License Information
Access official documentation and technical details through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This includes the station's public file and detailed facility information available via the Licensing and Management System (LMS).
Listen Live
Tune into KTIX's live broadcast online. Visit the provided link to stream the station's programming in real-time, wherever you are.
Official Website
For more information about KTIX and its sister stations within the Elkhorn Media Group's Columbia Basin operations, please visit their official website.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional broadcast consulting advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding radio station operations, licensing, or technical specifications. Always refer to official FCC documentation and consult with qualified broadcast professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.