KISU-FM 91.1 to launch fundraising drive

For more than seven years, regular on-air fundraising pledge drives have been absent from the airwaves of KISU-FM 91.1, which is broadcast from Idaho State University in Pocatello. But as of Wednesday, Oct. 25, that will all change. That is the day KISU will launch the first of two regular on-air pledge drives each fiscal year.

Station general manager Jerry Miller says it’s a long-awaited change.

 “For years we’ve relied almost exclusively on ISU student fees to cover our operating expenses,” Miller said. “Being a technology-based operation, we’ve seen those operating costs go up every year, and put more pressure on student’s pocketbooks along the way. Now, with the approval of ISU President Dr. Arthur Vailas, KISU is entering a new era.”

KISU’s fall drive will run during the last seven days of October, culminating on Halloween. Miller says they’re hoping that KISU has proven its value to listeners in east Idaho over the past seven years.

“This station, thanks to the work of a lot of dedicated students who’ve worked here over the years, has become special,” Miller said. “It’s more than just your average public radio station with classical or jazz music formats. We’ve gone from zero hours to nearly 30 hours of local programming every week, and much of it is pretty darn good stuff. I’m extremely proud of the wide range of programming available on KISU, offering the finest programs that public radio can offer, as well as great local shows and ISU women’s sports broadcasts. I hope the eastern Idaho community feels the same way and supports us in this pledge drive.”

Miller also says listeners interested in volunteering to help during next week’s drive could contact him directly at 282-2688, or by e-mail at milljerr@isu.edu.