The Return of Possum Radio, Pt. 3

Hi friends! 

I know so many of you have been anticipating the next step for Possum Radio. When I'm out in the community representing the station (and even sometimes when I'm not), I'm asked some variation of, "So where's the radio station going to be?" or "When are you all getting out of that RV?" 

I'm so pleased to report that we finally have a solid plan to share with you, with a big update first and foremost: thanks to generous support from the Appalshop Board, we have been able to start Phase I of construction on our new studio space at 253 Main Street in downtown Whitesburg, with an expected completion date of early November. 

That's right– even as Appalshop as an organization is considering big questions about it's future, including where we will build the organization's headquarters, we also remain committed to a Whitesburg presence. 

WMMT is here to stay in Whitesburg. It was always part of our vision, even day 1 after the 2022 historic flood, to remain here. It is clear to me that WMMT's legend and history has been forged with this town's influences and particular quirks, that there is no Non-Industrial Giant in the Mountains without Whitesburg, and we know that it's important to honor that history. I'll have more to say about this construction here shortly but first... 

It's YOUR turn. Our 2024 Fall FUN Drive is starting today, September 18, and runs through to next Friday, September 27. That's 10 full days to reflect on all the reasons why you love WMMT! RSVP to our Facebook event, where we'll be posting daily updates with expected programing and fundraising goal updates.We're very excited to revamp a classic Robert Gipe design: One Nation, Underpaid, with Soupbeans and Cornbread for All. Check it out. 

In addition to our three levels of one-time gifts, there is also an opportunity for YOU to leave your mark on WMMT. If you choose to donate $500 or more during this Fall FUN Drive to support our studio buildout, we'll dedicate the space to you and will include all donors at this level (or whomever you choose to memorialize) on the outer entrance walls. We welcome individual donors as well as organizations that would like to give at this level. Questions? Email [email protected]. 

You can find more information on all gift levels at wmmt.org/donate. I hope you consider making a one-time gift to support the station's transition this Fall, and I know there are 40 volunteers and staff members who would thank you greatly. Now, back to the update. 

Our renovated 2006 Winnebago, lovingly dubbed the Possum Den, has been an impressively reliable mid-term solution, but I know I can speak for several volunteers and our staff when I say that we are thrilled to consider the 900 square feet of space that Phase I will afford us. Right now, the space is three rooms: 

Listening Space + Music Library – DJs will be empowered to use our music library and audio production tools to bring you better radio. This will also serve as a primary community-building space and resource for volunteers, along with WMMT’s open-air offices outside of the space. 

Main Studio – This will be the space used for the majority of our broadcast operations. It will be equipped with a custom-built broadcast desk, four microphones, all broadcast essentials, and more space for physical media shelving. 

Studio B – This will be the space that will further strengthen our audio capabilities and DJ programming. This will be used as a multifunctional space for the time being, including recording podcasts, interviews, etc., but can also be used to provide a distinct space for musical acts when they come to visit. The space will be properly outfitted to allow for the DJ on air to switch audio sources from the main studio, meaning that they can seamlessly transition their broadcast operations to allow for a smooth, live music experience. 

Phase II, once funded, will bring us another version of the Bill Monroe Room (in honor of the engineering and technical equipment space at Appalshop's former headquarters), another auxiliary Studio C that will be outfitted to record podcasts as well as encourage more audio production, and plenty of private office space for staff. This second wave of construction will also likely include a window looking out from the DJ booth onto Main Street. Imagine walking to Summit City or the Courthouse and seeing well-loved volunteers like Sarahlachia, Rich Kirby, or DJ Katy Ray bringing you Possum Radio LIVE and in action. That's a future I'm excited for! 

After that, the Possum Den will be available to come to festivals to broadcast and interact with our listenership, as well as providing us with an emergency broadcast solution if the rivers rise again. 

Otherwise, we have great momentum right now, implementing several processes and tools to improve the DJ experience. We've trained 10 volunteers this summer during our annual training, as well as started to find ways to get our DJs involved not just in paying freelance opportunities with the station, but also with media projects generally at Appalshop. As we head into the fall and winter, staff is excited to slow down, focus on the physical space transition, but also plan for another great Spring and Summer in 2025. 

Thank you for reading this far! Even with all the trials and tributations during my time in this role, there's no place else I'd rather be. If you've stuck by us, I know you can appreciate the sentiment. 

Thank you, 

Teddy Wimer

WMMT General Manager