Lesser-known radio show features passionate host

There are some interesting local radio shows out that only a few listeners might know about.

That's because they may air only occasionally on lesser-known radio stations.

One of these is the "Kevin Williams Show," which airs every fifth Saturday, 3-4 p.m., on KTKK ("K-Talk," AM-630). The next airing will be May 16.

"I talk about politics, food storage and education," Williams said. "I have a very objective show."

But that's just a sampling of the topics he covers on his show. "I have a passion for radio," he said. "My goal is to do full-time radio some day."

Williams graduated from Southern Utah University in communications but is not your typical radio host. He's blind.

How does he manage the radio control board? "I memorized the control board," he said, explaining that it was easier that trying to use Braille.

And the subject of blindness has cropped up on his show from time to time.

On one program he discussed hybrid cars, which are a danger to the visually impaired because they run so quietly. He's also examined the oddity of downtown Salt Lake City having audio signals to help the blind cross the street, while such signals don't exist in the suburbs, where more people live.

He also accepts calls from listeners. His May 16 program will feature an interview with a private-school owner from Cedar City.

Williams' show may not air very often, and it's on a small station, but he's excited about and devoted to radio. Who can say how far this passion will take him in broadcasting?

RADIO HAPPENINGS: Portia Early, formerly of KXRK ("X-96") now has a show on Utah Free Media, an online local radio station at www.utahfm.org, each Monday, from 3-6 p.m.

Her show began May 11 and features local and live music.

KXRK's annual "BASh" will be May 29, 3-11 p.m., at the USANA Amphitheater. Tickets are $20-$30. For more information, go to www.x96.com.

KZHT's "Z-Morning Zoo" now has live podcasts of past shows and interviews on the station Web site, zoo.971zht.com. Hear Frankie, Dangerboy and Jessica interview Paula Abdul and other celebrities. Or just listen to a past show. "Morning radio" isn't just in the morning anymore.

TWENTY YEARS AGO IN SALT LAKE RADIO: Jon Carter and Dan Bammes leave KRSP and switch to KLZX, but they can't go on the air until September, because of their "no compete" contract. … Richard Cano and Chris Kramer constitute the morning show on KKAT. … KBER holds "Bearfest '89" at Lagoon.

E-MAIL: lynn@desnews.com