Chamber News by Artis Stoebener, Executive Director
KMRN/KKWK is this week's Chamber veteran member. They are indeed "veteran" members as Cameron has enjoyed having a local radio station since the late 1960's when KMRN -AM was established on "the Hill" 4 miles south of Cameron.  After being granted a license in 1971, Cameron tuned in to 1360 AM during daylight hours to stay informed.  Lots of Cameron-oriented programming was offered, one of which featured the fondly remembered Dorothy Richey.  
The tradition continued when Shellby and Lori Hendee purchased the station in 1980.  It's sometimes easy to overlook the importance of having such a media presence in your community because KMRN has always been here for many of us.  We can't imagine life w/o it.  Clearly we depend on it for the latest local sports teams scores and of course, the weather.  Accurate weather is available through KMRN's own color weather radar along w/their partnership with the National Weather Service.
Imagine the great causes that local Radio-thons have helped get off the ground or keep going.  The Cameron Library, Clinco, and Camp Quality were certainly affected positively by them.  The Camp Quality radio-thon continues to this day.  In 1983, KMRN moved to the vast (15,000 sq. feet) exposition hall on south 69.  This area hosted farm and home shows as well as receptions, parties, and special events for over 10 years.  
KMRN relocated to Northland Mall in 1993 when an FM station at 100.1 (KKWK) was added.  In 1999, the new owners, Shepherd Broadcast Group, a family owned business from Moberly, relocated to its current facilities which are state of the art on East Platte Clay way just north of the Supercenter.  The stations are actively involved and enhanced by two toll - free telephone lines and the latest in computer technology.  Imagine "Bids for Bargains w/o that technology!  Their staff of 12 is exceptional as well, always willing to rework your advertising until it's exactly what you want.  They are similarly patient, assisting you when your company chooses to use their own employee's voice for the ad.  The professionals can record in one take.  We rookies need a bit more help.  
KMRN/KKWK is truly regional in concept and programming.  They broadcast over 200 local high school sporting events for 28 high schools.  They cover many local events ranging from July 4 celebrations to county fairs and festivals for the 22 county listening area.  KMRN/KKWK employs 12 professionals and host 10 audience participation shows each week.  The Chamber is always delighted to appear on "The Breakfast Club."  I'm always pleasantly surprised by the number of folks who mentioned hearing me on there every month.  Of course, Andrew Pulverenti always makes those radio interviews a relaxing experience, instead of one to dread.  KMRN/KKWK's goal is much like the Chamber's:  to help our clients grow and prosper, doing everything we can to help them be successful.  Rodney Harris is the station manager and can be reached at 632-6661.
The Chamber welcomes another new member, Divine Design Painting Company, owned and operated by Derek O. Bryan.  Fully insured, Derek specializes in both interior and exterior preservation and can be reached at 632-1880.  Nothing says spring like a fresh look for your home or business.  Derek and Divine Design Painting Co. give free estimates.  Cameron is truly blessed to have so much effort & support from so many folks.  Please continue to patronize all 160+ Chamber businesses that have made a dedicated effort to help Cameron be all it can be.  They appreciate your business