Interview with Jay David Blanton,

Interview Summary

Blanton begins the interview by introducing himself and his current job. Following this, Blanton describes his work with the Kentucky Kernel student newspaper, and his interactions with co-worker Kathleen "Kakie" Urch, one of the principal founders of WRFL. Next, the interviewee examines some of the obstacles that occurred when WRFL was being established. Then, Blanton explains what the political climate of the university was like in the 1980s. The small, but vibrant leftist tradition of the university is explored, as well as a brief overview of notable WRFL alumni from its early days. Another founder of WRFL, Theo Monroe, and his role in getting WRFL on the air is also considered. Additionally, Blanton shares the reaction of the university's administration to WRFL. How WRFL serves as an educational tool to students is then described. Blanton concludes the interview by comparing the hierarchies of WRFL and the Kentucky Kernel respectively, and details the benefits of WRFL to the university.

Interview Keyword

Kentucky Kernel (newspaper) WRFL Kakie Urch Theo Monroe Newspapers

Interview LC Subject

Broadcasting--Kentucky--History Lexington (Ky.). Radio Radio broadcasters--Interviews University of Kentucky Administration Radio--History

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.