Community Radio Station in Wisconsin Celebrates Decade of Grassroots Broadcasting Success
In the heart of Wisconsin, nestled by the picturesque 3,359-acre lake Monona, lies the vibrant suburb of Monona, home to the successful community-owned Low Power FM station, 98.7 WVMO(LP). For ten years, this radio station has been a beacon of local culture, fostering a deep connection with its community and earning the title of "The Voice of Monona."
WVMO's success is rooted in its commitment to community ownership and programming. Shaped by local residents, the station reflects the interests and concerns of Monona, ensuring its content remains relevant and engaging. The station's focus on hyper-local content, promoting local music, storytelling, and civic information, has fostered listener loyalty and community pride.
The station's weekly programs, hosted by volunteers, are a testament to this commitment. With 34 such programs currently on its schedule, the majority hosted by different individuals, WVMO offers a diverse range of voices and perspectives. One such program is the "'VMO Show," hosted by Martin, where local officials, including current mayor Nancy Moore, are often interviewed.
WVMO's community involvement extends beyond its airwaves. Will Nimmow, the director of community media for the city of Monona, played a significant role in designing WVMO's studio and helping with programming tasks. Nimmow, who studied electronic media at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and has prior experience at WISC(TV) and a media production company, has been instrumental in shaping WVMO's identity.
Lindsay Wood Davis, co-founder of 98.7 WVMO(LP), has a rich broadcasting history. Davis, who is also a long-time Monona resident and a member of the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, has held various national roles, including Associated Press Broadcast Services' director of radio membership, executive vice president of the Radio Advertising Bureau, and chief operating officer of New Radio Group.
The station's anniversary event on Aug. 14 will be a celebration not only of WVMO's success but also a toast to Davis. The event will also feature a live performance from nationally-known bluegrass band Wheelhouse, based out of Madison, who are one of the first local bands ever heard on WVMO.
WVMO's accessibility is another key factor in its success. The station streams online, expanding its reach beyond local airwaves, and uses social media to engage listeners and promote shows. With a 100-watt signal, WVMO reaches approximately 10,000 listeners a week, divided up between three ZIP codes.
The station's product, according to Nimmow, gives WVMO a "leg-up" in its requests with the city. Located within Monona's City Hall, WVMO's studio provides the station with a strong community connection. This connection is further strengthened through recurring segments like the "Monona Bird Report," a biweekly segment about local birds, hosted by Mary Murrell since January 2018.
Monona's commitment to community radio is evident in its designation as an "Official Bird City." In 2017, Monona became an "Official Bird City," and this July, it was upgraded to a "High Flyer" status. This designation recognises Monona's dedication to preserving and protecting its local bird populations.
As 98.7 WVMO(LP) celebrates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of community-led radio. With its deep roots in local culture, commitment to hyper-local content, and active community involvement, WVMO continues to be a valued and cherished local institution.
References:
- WVMO History
- WVMO Program Schedule
- WVMO Social Media
- WVMO Studio Location
- Wisconsin Broadcast Association Awards
- Monona Becomes an Official Bird City
- Monona Upgraded to High Flyer Status
- The radio signal of 98.7 WVMO(LP) emanates from an antenna perched atop the city's hall, reinforcing its strong connection to the community of Monona.
- With the help of technology, WVMO's audio broadcasts transcend geographical boundaries, allowing home-and-garden enthusiasts across different locations to tune in and enjoy its unique lifestyle-focused programs.
- The community-owned station, 98.7 WVMO(LP), has been a consistent contributor to the local media landscape, broadcasting content that resonates with its audience and reflects the dynamics of the city.
- As a beacon of local culture, 98.7 WVMO(LP) fosters a sense of community pride by promoting home-grown talent, such as the nationally-known bluegrass band Wheelhouse.
- The station's diversified programming schedule encompasses 34 weekly programs, each featuring a unique set of local voices contributing to a vibrant mix of perspectives.
- The radio station's commitment to its community has been recognized not only in its impact on local culture but also in the city's designation as an "Official Bird City," demonstrating Monona's dedication to preserving its natural environment alongside fostering its human community.
