My Request For An Interview With Jess Luther

I’m dusting off my journalistic skills. I’ve decided to go to the top. I sent an e-mail to Jess Luther, the Acting General Manager of KWMU, on Monday morning, August 24th. Short and to the point:

“Hey Jess!

Would I be able to set up an interview with you about the transition? 

Brad Hildebrand”

I got a reply in just a few hours. Here’s what Jess sent back to me.

“Hi Brad,

Thank you for your interest in St. Louis Public Radio’s future operational independence. The University of Missouri and our advisory board, the Friends of KWMU, are negotiating the terms of the agreement to convey ownership to the board. STLPR’s mission will not change. We are focused on producing accurate local journalism that creates a more inspired and engaged public. I don’t have additional information to offer in an interview at this time.

Thank you,
Jess”

Sounds like corporate speak to me. Answer, but don’t answer. And after 18 months they’re still “negotiating” the terms of the agreement? I followed up with:

“Hey Jess,

So no financial terms? Is UM giving the assets of the stations (licenses, equipment, etc.) to Friends of KWMU? Or will the assets be purchased by the Friends of KWMU? If so, what price and terms. And does this include WQUB and KMST?”

No reply.

Is this secrecy? Or it is just “Hey buddy, leave us alone. We’re St. Louis Public Radio and you’re not.” I will wait a few days and try again for an interview. Maybe she’ll appreciate my tenacity. After all, St. Louis Public Radio is home to excellent independent local journalism. But remember. STLPR is not the only one who is “focused on producing accurate local journalism that creates a more inspired and engaged public.” I’m doing my best to get to the bottom of this story.

PHOTO CREDIT: I took it off of the STLPR.org website