Save KYMC Water Tower

Frequently Asked Questions

What Could Happen to KYMC?

The equipment and frequency could be leased out to another organization which would take over operation of the station. However, the station is more than just four call letters and a number.

Alternately, if the station "goes dark" and the YMCA cannot lease or transfer the license in one year, the license will be revoked by the FCC.

What Are Some Options For KYMC?

Preserving KYMC means keeping its current format alive and the same DJs, such as Matt Distelrath, involved with bringing West County great music. It also means that the same opportunities can exist for kids and teens to get involved with the radio and have their voices heard. Some options include:

  • Maryville College takes over the station, as it did in the late 80's, and keeps Mr. Distelrath as a program director
  • A donor or organization decides to sponsor KYMC
  • The format could go digital - instead of over the airwaves, KYMC could resurface as a streaming station, webcasting music all over the globe
  • A coalition of fans and investors could take over, raising money to replace older equipment

Why Should We Care?

KYMC plays music you can hear nowhere else in St. Louis. Children and teenagers have a chance to learn about radio and be heard. KYMC also offers a mobile DJ service and a summer radio camp for teens. With twenty-nine years on the air, KYMC is a St. Louis tradition.

Why Not a Pledge Drive?

The management of the West County YMCA, so far, has not been interested in donations.

What About the National YMCA?

Contacting the YMCA of the USA National Office, located in Chicago, will probably not help, as their site repeatedly states "Each YMCA is an independent organization, autonomous and separate from the YMCA of the USA" and "Each YMCA is separate and autonomous from the YMCA of the USA, and each YMCA makes its own decisions based on local community needs."