Chalk Hill Educational Media, Inc.

LPFM Web Site Links

Although we are no longer the licensee of an LPFM station, we ran one for a bit over eight years.  In fact it (KZQX-LP) was one of the first five stations to be awarded a construction permit in Texas.  It proved to be quite successful.  In the Fall of 2009, the opportunity presented itself to purchase a nearby full power station and the LPFM was donated to another community based organization.   It continues today with new call letters - KXAL-LP - while the original format and call letters were assigned to the new full power station.  Things are going well for both, but life is quite different running a full power commercial station.

The FCC has proposed a new filing window to allow more LPFM stations to come on the air.  We are not sure when or if that will actually happen, but we'd encourage local community groups to explore the possibilities.  It can be a rewarding experience, but please, don't go into it for the money.  There isn't any, unless you stretch the FCC rules to the breaking point.  Monetary gain is not a good reason to sign on such a station. They are designed to provide a broadcast outlet for underserved listeners in your area.  what that means can vary from place to place, but it is unrealistic to start another country or rock station in a market where several already exist.  You won't win, and you are adding little to the social or cultural development of your community.  Instead, strive to do something different.  Maybe it is community affairs.  Maybe it is Jazz, Classical or in our case, Adult Standards. Maybe it is religious, or foreign language.  It just depends on your community.  In the right place, "All Polka" might even work.  The point is to strive to be different!

We will cheerfully and freely  give advice to aspiring LPFM broadcasters.  You may or may not like what you hear, but it will be based on nearly 10 years of actual hands on operation.  Just send me an email.

Good Luck!

Chuck Conrad
 

If you are interested in the Low Power FM Initiative to establish legal and responsible community radio, You may find these sites helpful:

• FCC LPFM Information:  Contains links to many useful government sites including details on LPFM service and a handy Channel Finder Program to see if a Low Power station is viable in your community.
   
• REC Networks LPFM search.  This site, and its associated pages is an invaluable source for doing a channel search and garnering basic information about the LPFM Radio Service. 
   
• Christian Coalition Community Broadcasters.  Definitely from a religious broadcaster point of view, but filled with useful information and an active discussion forum.
   
• NATIONAL LPFM APPLICANTS COMMITTEE
  Resource Center for those who plan to apply for LPFM Licenses to respond to Congress and Market conditions to ensure successful defense of LPFM.