How Radio Can Organize A Community

Low-power FM licenses have signals that travel only 10-20 miles. But they are a powerful economic development and community organizing tool.

1 minute read

September 16, 2003, 1:00 PM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


" 'We thought of [the radio station] as a way to fight billionaire developers and corporations on a playing field that was not level,' says Shay. WRYR-LP identifies itself as the first radio station owned and operated by an environmental group. Amid a mix of gospel, jazz, and alternative music, the station runs programs dedicated to local and national environmental issues. WRYR-LP also offers coverage of county council meetings and local elections, with particular emphasis on land-use and zoning issues. The programs on the station feature local musicians and writers, and are hosted by local residents. 'We thought if we could celebrate our community, we would make it stronger,' says Shay."

Thanks to APA Planning News

Monday, September 15, 2003 in Columbia Journalism Review

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