KRPS radio a force in the Four States

For nearly two decades, residents of the cities, towns and rural areas of the Four-State area have had a window to the world through KRPS, the public radio station at Pittsburg State University. National Public Radio news, BBC World Service and music that includes jazz, blues, classical, Celtic, folk and world, may be taken for granted in the major metropolitan centers, but these are offerings that Four-State listeners can find only at 89.9 on their FM dial. The powerful 100,000-watt KRPS signal reaches out in a circle from the station’s tower south of Pittsburg north past Pleasanton; south past Gravette, Ark., and Vinita and Bartlesville, Okla.; east into the farmlands of southwest Missouri; and west into the rolling hills past Fredonia.

General Manager Missi Kelly said she enjoys hearing from KRPS members, who make it clear how much the station means to them. For example, one listener wrote, “KRPS opens my mind and my heart.” Another put it simply, “Thanks Heavens for NPR!”

Because public radio is supported by its members, the station participates in two membership campaigns each year. The fall campaign is currently underway. A pledge of any size qualifies for a year membership. The membership drives are critical, Kelly said, because the station relies on its members for about 28 percent of its funding.

KRPS works hard to keep the lines of communication open with its members. For example, a recent change in the programming for the nightly 7-9 p.m. time slot took place after the station polled listeners. As a result, KRPS switched from classical music during that time to jazz.

Kelley said that while in-depth national and international news and commentary are important services provided by KRPS, the station also has a critical role to play in the region.

“In this time of so many news and entertainment options,” Kelly said, “it’s more important than ever for radio stations to take pride in their localism. KRPS is Public Radio for the Four States. There are so many unique and passionate people in this region. KRPS has a responsibility to play a significant role in helping celebrate those who set the region apart, and we’ll continue to do so with insightful, intelligent and well-produced local and national programming.”

KRPS broadcasts from the Baxter Broadcasting Center at 1501 S. Joplin on the PSU campus. The station operates with a full-time staff of seven, plus a support staff that includes office assistants, announcers, student interns and volunteers.

To learn more about KRPS, including its programming and how to become a member, visit the KRPS Web site at www.krps.org or call the station at 620-235-4288.

---Pitt State--