Iowa State students have many different mediums in which they can receive news and entertainment, but only one radio station is run by the students and for the students.

However, its future may be in jeopardy.

After debates at two Inter-Residence Hall Association meetings regarding KURE (88.5 FM) radio station’s funding, the IRHA internal affairs committee announced it was going to lobby to zero fund the station.

IRHA currently funds 60 percent of KURE’s operating costs, and GSB picks up the other 40 percent.

The argument made by some IRHA members was that students living in the residence halls were getting hit twice in helping to fund the radio station — once with IRHA dues and another time with GSB student activity fees.

This sounds like a valid argument, since KURE is the only student organization that receives funding from both IRHA and GSB.

One mistake KURE made is by having all of its funding come from only two sources.

IRHA President Ben Chamberlain said he doesn’t like KURE’s current funding situation, but he also doesn’t want it to die.

What should be done to keep the radio station on the air?

First, KURE needs to look into getting money from other sources, such as state grants.

Even if GSB is willing to completely fund KURE, it should not rely upon funding from only one source because the next year, GSB may get members on its finance committee who don’t like the station.

Second, IRHA should re-evaluate lobbying to zero fund KURE. IRHA members need to look at the benefits the station provides for students living in the residence halls and all ISU students.

Not only does KURE provide students with the opportunity to mold their communication and broadcasting skills, but it also gives them managerial experience.

When an organization like KURE gives back to the students, it is definitely something the Department of Residence, IRHA, GSB and the university should want to keep around for years to come.

KURE’s fate should not solely be in the hands of IRHA and GSB, but it also should not be dropped from their hands.