Radio Free Silver!
Regime Change Radio for Southwest New Mexico.

RFS is a one hour talk show that airs on KNFT 950am M-F from 9-10am.  RFS brings alternative, liberal, and progressive viewpoints to this region and features local and call-in guests that speak on a variety
of topics from the Iraq war, the upcoming election, environment,
health, domestic violence, water issues and beyond.

I've received thanks and compliments from many for my efforts as host
of the show but I consider it primarily a voice for our community of
peace and justice, rather than a vehicle for myself.

But RFS is in jeopardy. 

According to my conversation with Matt Runnels, owner of the station, all the advertisers on KNFT have asked not to have their commercials run during RFS and shifted to other programs, thereby eliminating it's financial underpinnings.  I have been informed that unless alternate sponsors are signed up, the last show will be Thursday 15 July.

The question before us is does the show have enough value for this
community to take action in it's support?

We are all familiar with the dynamics of a small town and the "pragmatic" approach that is necessary to co-exist with a majority that holds opposing views.  I could think of a number of businesses that I could approach that might feel that radio advertising was worthwhile and affordable as well as being sympathetic to the show and valuing it's continued presence.  But is this the best model?  In a town that has polarized elements, can small businesses afford to run the risk of placing themselves in a harsh public debate when their livelihoods depend on "getting along?"  I'm reticent to place them in that position.

However, there is another model that could insure the show's continued
existence - listener support.  The station has informed me that four
sponsors running ads daily on RFS would be sufficient financial
support to keep the show running.  That would be 4 sponsors times
approximately $150 dollars a month or $600.00 monthly.  If a listener
base exists that could produce that figure on an ongoing basis, the
show could continue.  I spoke with our friend John Fridinger, knowing
that his email list reaches more than 600 people.  If everyone on his
list contributed $1 a month that would cover the cost of the show.  Or
200 people at $3 or twelve at $50 or any combination.  Listener support would immunize the show from reticent sponsors and hostile listeners while insuring its integrity.

Shortly before the opportunity arose to start the show, at a Grant
County Peace Coalition meeting we were discussing the problem of "preaching to the converted."  Radio is a unique medium for reaching the greatest number of people and the talk show format is one that lends itself to getting an idea across.  With that in mind, I decided to take the offer and host the show with the hope that it would indeed reach beyond "the choir" and bring important information and perspectives to the many that are poorly informed but making up their minds about the important issues that are before us all. If the peace and justice community wishes to continue a presence in the "marketplace of ideas" in this region, RFS is an ideal vehicle.

Before closing, I would like to add that Matt Runnels, owner of KNFT,
has been very supportive and enthusiastic about the show.  The finances are an understandable problem that a business owner cannot
ignore and if we can provide the financial base, I am confident that
Matt will continue to encourage and support our efforts.  Likewise I
wish to thank all the guests that have contributed to the show and GC
Peace Coalition for their support and encouragement.

If you've heard the show and enjoy it, if you think that in one of the most crucial election years in our history that our community's voice must be heard by the larger community, if you're outside our community but would like to support the larger implications of a show like RFS, or if you feel that we should stand tall and not simply back down under a little pressure, reply to the address below and give a dollar figure that you would be comfortable to commit to. A couple dozen folks at $25 each would do it. Think of it as a gift to the future.

Time is of the essence here.  We are facing a deadline of Thursday 15
July - 1 week. But don't wait til the last day. The sooner the better.

Thanks,

Kyle Johnson
Radio Free Silver!
rfs@signalpeak.net

Click here for Rapid Response of RFS supporters!