The Wake

This column is the first to result from the newly codified relationship between Radio K and The Wake. In this space, expect to see feature stories of all types from the Radio K news department, music reviews and discussion from the Radio K music department, and a university radio perspective on both the university and on radio.

In turn, Radio K is pleased to air “The Wake-Up,” which you can hear on Friday mornings at 8:45 each week that The Wake hits news stands. “The Wake-Up” is a five-minute news feature from The Wake.

This first column is an introduction to Radio K, in what has already been one of the more interesting years of its existence.

Radio K in 2005

Recently, the five-member administrative student service fees subcommittee tried to slash the budgets of several “U” groups, in an effort to reduce student fees, or, as some have called it, student “taxes.” The recommended $35,000 cut to Radio K — later revised to $25,000 — was overturned by Vice Provost Jerry Rinehart last week, putting Radio K in an exclusive club, the “Saved by Jerry Rinehart” club.

Radio K, along with the Twin Cities Student Unions and other groups, this year join club mascot The Wake in this prestigious honor. We not only hold the distinction of being targeted by the “shortsighted” (as Rinehart put it) committee, but we were also saved from irresponsible proposals at the last minute. Good thing, too. Radio K is so tightly budgeted that the proposed cut would have meant a 33% reduction in student managers, and an estimated 50% reduction in volunteer staff. Whew!

I mention this because Radio K is entering a critical stage of its existence, expanding its FM signal and developing new music and news programming. It is important to note how the progress and effort of the last half-decade, not to mention the potential of the next half-decade, was nearly squashed by just one person, an unabashed and vocal opponent of the station’s existence, and two others who simply voted with him. Even though we escaped with our skin intact, our part-time student staff and volunteers spent the better part of two months writing memos, sending emails, gathering support and attending hearings, while simultaneously trying to make great radio.

Now, more then ever before, it is a dangerous world for independent media, so in light of the recent obstacles, it is so encouraging that Radio K and The Wake are embarking on this venture together. Our listeners and readers can only benefit from the relationship.

-Mark LaCroix, Radio K Program Director

Radio K is currently in its spring “Powersurge,” its semiannual membership drive. Minimum donation is just $10. You get a Music Lover’s Card, good for discounts all over town, and a subscription to the Utne Reader for joining. Support Radio K by visiting radiok.org or by calling 612-626-ROCK. Listen to Radio K at 770am, sunup to sundown, and at 106.5fm from 4:30pm to 8am on weekdays, 24 hours on weekends.