Interview with Ronald Allen "Ron" Pen, October 9, 2008

Interview Summary

Pen begins the interview by discussing his teaching career at the University of Kentucky. Following this, Pen talks of his students that were staff members at WRFL. The interviewee then shares his earliest memory of WRFL as a radio station, as well as its initial programming. Additionally, WRFL and its relationship to the University of Kentucky and students is also mentioned. Next, the educational value of WRFL to university students is assessed. Pen explains the importance of radio to communities and diverse groups of people as well. The types of people involved in WRFL are characterized, coupled with a brief discussion of the level of competition that WRFL faces today. Next, the interviewee examines the importance of Bluegrass music for Kentucky. Lastly, Pen highlights the unique essence of WRFL, along with his favorite WRFL moment.

Interview Keyword

WRFL Community Appalachia Diversity

Interview LC Subject

Broadcasting--Kentucky--History Lexington (Ky.) Radio Radio broadcasters--Interviews Radio--History Bluegrass music Professors Appalshop, Inc. University of Kentucky

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.