KCQA 99.5 FM, Virginia City, Nevada

The Ancient and Honorable Order of E Clampus Vitus

KCQA 99.5 FM, Virginia City, Nevada

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UPDATE: The application was denied due to “fatal errors,” foremost of which being that an officer of the corporation did not sign the application. It was signed by the intended station manager. We will reapply in the future.

We have completed a construction permit application with the FCC to run a Low-Power FM radio station from the ECV Hall in Virginia City, NV! The plan is to develop our own programming as well as to include other programs relevant to the E Clampus Vitus, the Comstock Lode, and Nevada history. Here is the statement of our educational mission:

Julia C Bulette Chapter 1864 E Clampus Vitus of Nevada
KCQA-FM Educational Mission Statement

Mission

E Clampus Vitus (ECV) is a fraternal organization with roots in the American West, particularly in the mining regions of Nevada and California. Our historical mission is a blend of humorous parody, historical preservation, and social camaraderie. Founded in the mid-19th century, the organization has gone through various periods of activity and dormancy. The Virginia City, Nevada, Chapter of ECV (#1864, after the year Nevada became a State) is the oldest chapter formed in Nevada and recently celebrated our 60th anniversary. The Chapter is named for Julia C Bulette, a courtesan who became an honorary firefighter, noted contributor to charity, and a fixture in the local community during the days of the enormous gold & silver strike known as the Comstock Lode.

Here are key aspects of the historical mission of E Clampus Vitus and our Chapter:

  1. Historical Preservation: The central mission of E Clampus Vitus is the preservation of Western history and folklore, especially during the Gold Rush era. For our Chapter, this is often centered on the history of the Comstock Lode. Members of our organization engage in historical research, erect plaques, and conduct ceremonies at sites of historical significance. Through these activities, we aim to ensure that the stories and contributions of those who played a role in the development of the American West are not forgotten.
  2. Humorous and Satirical Approach: E Clampus Vitus is known for our irreverent and humorous approach to history. We incorporate satire and parody into our rituals, ceremonies, and events. Members often adopt tongue-in-cheek titles and engage in playful, theatrical activities that are designed to entertain and lighten the atmosphere while still respecting the historical context.
  3. Camaraderie and Brotherhood: E Clampus Vitus fosters a sense of camaraderie among our members. The organization serves as a social club where individuals with an interest in Western history and a good sense of humor can come together. The camaraderie extends beyond local chapters, creating a network of like-minded individuals who share a passion for history and a commitment to preserving it in a lighthearted manner.
  4. Symbolism and Rituals: E Clampus Vitus incorporates symbols and rituals into our activities, often drawing on historical and mythical elements. The organization uses unique terminology and titles, adding a sense of mystery and tradition to our proceedings. Rituals and ceremonies may involve the dedication of historical markers, the initiation of new members, and the celebration of significant events in Western history.
  5. Community Involvement: While maintaining a focus on historical preservation, E Clampus Vitus also engages with the communities where our chapters are located. This involvement includes charitable activities, educational programs, and events that bring people together to celebrate local history. The Virginia City Chapter presents a scholarship annually to the valedictorian of Virginia City High School in the amount of $1,864.00.

It’s important to note that while E Clampus Vitus is an ancient and honorable historical society, we do not exemplify those virtues in the traditional, dour, dusty, academically reserved sense. Instead, we embrace a playful and unconventional approach to history, using humor as a means to engage with and celebrate the past. The organization’s historical mission is inseparable from its commitment to fostering a sense of fun and camaraderie among its members. Our call letters are derived from our slogan: Credo Quia Absurdum, which means “I believe it because it is absurd.”

Programming

Given the historical and humorous nature of E Clampus Vitus, KCQA-FM will produce a variety of entertaining and educational programs. Here are some concepts which we may bring to production:

  1. Historical Marker Spotlights: Given E Clampus Vitus’ commitment to historical markers, and our Chapter’s several dozen markers in and near Virginia City, our primary focus will be programs that explore and explain the significance of these markers and the subjects they describe. We will add our own unique touch of humor by presenting historical facts in a lively and entertaining manner.
  2. Interviews with Local Characters: We will conduct interviews with local historians, eccentric characters, and individuals with unique perspectives on Virginia City’s history. The approach to these interviews will contain a blend of respect for the historical context and the lighthearted, humorous style characteristic of E Clampus Vitus.
  3. Historical Comedy Shows: We can create comedic sketches or radio dramas that playfully reenact events from Virginia City’s past. These will incorporate humorous elements and exaggerated characters, staying true to E Clampus Vitus’ tradition of using humor to engage with history.
  4. Mystery Tours and Ghost Stories: Virginia City has a rich history with tales of the paranormal. We can develop programs that take listeners on virtual “mystery tours” of haunted locations, sharing ghost stories and legends associated with the area. E Clampus Vitus’ irreverent humor will add a unique twist to these spooky tales.
  5. Old-Time Radio Revival: We can embrace the nostalgia of old-time radio by producing programs that recreate the feel of vintage broadcasts. These could include period-appropriate music, commercials, and storytelling techniques while injecting E Clampus Vitus’ unique and irreverent brand of humor.
  6. Live Event Coverage: We will broadcast live coverage of E Clampus Vitus events and other Virginia City special events, historical reenactments, or community celebrations. This could include on-the-spot interviews, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and playful commentary on the festivities.
  7. Educational Segments with a Twist: We may develop short educational segments that explore various aspects of local history and Nevada history but present the information in a fun and engaging way. Use humor to make historical facts more memorable for listeners.
  8. Community Call-In Shows: We may host call-in shows where community members can share their own stories, memories, and experiences related to Virginia City. Encourage a lively and interactive atmosphere with a mix of serious and humorous discussions.

The goal of these programs will be to balance historical accuracy with a playful and entertaining tone that aligns with the mission of E Clampus Vitus and the specific local character of the Julia C Bulette Chapter 1864 in Virginia City. By infusing humor into our radio programs, the station can engage a broad audience and create a unique listening experience that reflects the spirit of the organization.

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