Gospel music event boosts radio station

Sounds of gospel music filled the air near Cape Community Church on Saturday. More than 10 acts from around the area performed during an all-day Gospel Jubilee to benefit KMHM 104.1 radio station in Marble Hill, Mo.

Event coordinator Robin McCollough said she had noticed the gospel station had reduced live programming, and during an in-studio visit she asked a disc jockey about the changes. After discovering there was a lack of funds to help produce live programs, she wanted to help.

"I felt compelled to do a benefit," McCollough said.

After learning that gospel groups The Rivermen and Golden Road Quartet had also expressed interest in a fundraiser for the station, the idea started becoming a reality.

McCollough and 25 other volunteers organized an all-day musical benefit with The Rivermen and Golden Road Quartet, along with The Lawlesses, In His Name, Rose of Sharon, New Beginnings and several local performers.

Soloist Melissa Colyer of Jackson said being able to sing and support a good cause prompted her performance.

"My grandmother goes to Cape Community Church, and she asked me to perform. This is something I want to support. I really enjoy singing anywhere I can," she said.

Audience members were also there to support the radio station and enjoy the music.

In addition to live music, there were food stands, door prizes, games and a balloonist.

If this year's event is a success, McCollough said, the jubilee will become an annual event. Although final numbers are not yet available, she said she would like to raise at least $2,000 for the station.

WMHM traffic manager and disc jockey Sheila Kirkpatrick said this was the first time a benefit was organized for the station. Kirkpatrick said the station planned on purchasing several small items with money generated from the fundraiser.

"We need a guest mic, some new chairs and lots of little things," Kirkpatrick said.

Currently the primary source of revenue for the station is advertising.

WMHM is in Marble Hill and has a staff of four. The station's broadcast areas include Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Piedmont, Dexter and Ste. Genevieve, as well as parts of Illinois.