February 7, 2002

Second BYU-Idaho radio station
features new name and new format

REXBURG, Idaho -- As cold temperatures permeate the Rexburg air, a new warmth can be found at 91.5 with radio station KBYR. A rebirth of sorts occurred in early January with a call sign change from what was previously known as KWBH.

"KBYR carries the brand of BYU-Idaho more clearly than the previous sign," says general manager James Clark. It was selected because of its close tie with KBYI, another station licensed to Brigham Young University-Idaho.

Signing on the air in 1994, KWBH was created as a practicum to serve students enrolled in specific communications classes. Pioneering efforts by many have forged the way for KBYR to be a highly successful station utilizing talented students eager to develop their broadcast skills.

"We’re pleased with the training we’ve been able to offer students through the years and look forward to providing more opportunities and practical experience," says Clark. "Students can do amazing things when the bar is raised, expectations explained and training is given."

KBYR offers an inspirational format with programming around the clock to the campus and Rexburg community. An entirely new playlist has been developed with additional songs coming online daily. Clark says there are approximately 600 songs now and adds, "We’ll keep on going until we reach about 1,200." The immediate goal of the station is to place songs in a rotation that remains fresh, to add the student component of highly-produced content relevant to the institution and its mission and to create an environment where execution of the product is technically superior.

"There are many choices available today in the world of media," says Clark. "With KBYR, we hope to create a safe haven where listeners can feel comfortable and never be surprised by objectionable or questionable content. We’re very excited with the direction this station is taking."