Bethesda Christian Broadcasting has flipped Christian CHR “97.9 The Point” KTPT Rapid City SD to Christian Worship “97.9 The Breeze“.
With the move, BCB is integrating some of KTPT’s former programming into sister “Power 107.1” KSLT. The syndicated Wally Show will move from mornings on KTPT to nights on KSLT.
The following letter was posted on the KTPT site to explain the changes:
Since 1984, when KSLT first signed on the air, contemporary Christian music has been a part of the airwaves across the Black Hills and beyond. Our style of music was barely known in this area in the mid 80’s, but soon caught on and even helped to birth the Hills Alive Festival 30 years ago. Bethesda Christian Broadcasting (BCB) was formed and up until 1996 KSLT was the only Black Hills station operated in by BCB. In 1996 BCB purchased the radio station known as KLMP. KLMP broadcasted a mixture of inspirational music along with teaching and preaching programs. In 2004 BCB obtained a license for a third station and began what is known today as 97.9 The Point. For eleven years, 97.9 The Point has offered a format of music geared toward a younger audience. Although it was a great outreach, 97.9 The Point was never able to achieve a level of funding necessary to cover its expenses. With that said, we want to thank everyone who has invested their time, talent and finances to bring us this far.
After much prayer and consideration, the time has come for a new and exciting change for 97.9. Although the ministry of The Point will be greatly missed, we know it served a purpose for its time. Now it is time for something fresh, or should I say refreshing! 97.9 will become 97.9 The Breeze this Monday, January 4th, 2016. 97.9 The Breeze will be a great source of refreshment to help you get through your day. 97.9 The Breeze will be a blend of contemporary worship music, plus songs that will help you go deeper in your faith. The new format will be music that we believe can lift you out of your circumstances by directing your focus on the mighty God we serve. We think you will be refreshingly surprised. Visit 979thebreeze.com starting Monday to find out more.
Over the past few months much reshaping of the music played on KSLT has been taking place. A mix of the music that was being heard on 97.9 The Point has moved to KSLT. If you have been a listener of The Point we invite you to give 107.1 KSLT a try. If you are a fan of the Wally Show on 97.9 The Point we are excited to let you know Wally is moving to KSLT as well and will be broadcast weekday evenings from 7 to 11pm.
Just as in 1984 when this all began, much prayer has been put into these changes. Change is not always easy, but we are excited about the future and about the potential for reaching more people with the Message of Christ through these radio stations. You, our ministry partners will play a big part in the success of these stations. For over 30 years we have relied greatly on the generosity of our listeners for financial support. We could not have made it this far without you, nor could we move ahead without your continued support.
Please continue in prayer with us as we go through this transition. As always if you any questions or concerns please feel free to contact General Manager Tom Schoenstedt at 605-342-6822, or by email to toms@bcbradio.org.
Exciting times are ahead, it’s great to have you a part of it.
