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National Association of Broadcasters

Stories About Disaster Relief and Recovery

Radio Provides A Lifeline during Hawaii Wildfires

Date Posted: 8/21/2023

Emergency experts recommend families keep a battery-operated radio as part of their emergency kits, because during disaster, broadcasting’s efficiency and resilience makes it a vital communications resource. "Radio has been the only lifeline and line of communication to the people of West Maui. For days there has been no power, no water, and no Internet service," Chuck Bergson, president and CEO, Pacific Media Group, told Radio Ink.

"It was frustrating in the early stages of the crisis because the local government officials did not fully understand the capabilities and importance of radio," he continued. "In the beginning, they were directing people to a website but that was useless because no one had internet."

"We hear their crying, their tears, their desperate pleas," Brandee Carvalho, host at Maui’s KISS radio, told Hawaii News Now. "It is real. It’s very real for me."

These radio stations came together to broadcast daily updates from local government as well as information on emergency supplies and evacuation shelters.

iHeart Honolulu Raises Funds for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 8/21/2023

The iHeartMedia Honolulu station group announced the #KokuaforMaui fundraiser to collect donations for the American Red Cross. "The people of Maui are our neighbors and iHeartMedia Honolulu is proud to do whatever we can to empower our ohana and friends on Maui to recover and rebuild in the face of what appears to be the deadliest natural disaster in Hawaii history," said Jamie Hyatt, senior vice president of Programming, iHeartMedia Honolulu.

Bonneville Foundation Kicks Off Fundraising Effort with $15,000 to Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 8/21/2023

Bonneville International announced a relief fundraiser for the Hawaii Community Foundation, kicking off the efforts with a $15,000 donation from the company’s foundation. "Bonneville International has always been deeply rooted in the communities it serves. With so many connections to the islands throughout the west, especially in the states our markets serve, Maui Strong is a testament to our commitment to stand by our neighbors in times of crisis," says Tanya Vea, president and COO, Bonneville International.

Hawaii Radio Stations Host Benefit Concert for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 8/21/2023

In the aftermath of the deadly Maui wildfires, Hawaii’s radio stations from different groups came together to host a benefit concert. The concert, called "Maui Ola: A Benefit Concert for Maui," was held on Sunday, August 20th at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu. Musicians and celebrities from across the islands performed at the concert, and 100% of the proceeds will go to four charities that are helping those affected by the wildfires.

Fox 10 Phoenix Reports on Saguaros Collapsing in Extreme Heat

Date Posted: 8/16/2023

Covering droughts and extreme heat in their area, Fox 10 Phoenix provided an in-depth report on the effects of these unprecedented conditions on the state’s iconic saguaro cacti. The saguaros are collapsing due to extreme heat and lack of moisture. The report consults local experts and explores the significance of the saguaros as a local symbol.

KHON Telethon Supports Maui Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 8/14/2023

Nexstar Media Group’s KHON 2 in Hawaii held the “Malama Maui” telethon on August 14, after devastating wildfires in Maui. The telethon raised $1,187,712 in donations to assist victims, followed by an additional $134,253 in donations from a telethon hosted by Nexstar’s KLAS Las Vegas, and a $20,000 donation from the Nexstar Media Charitable Foundation.

Cumulus Stations Raise Funds for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 6/10/2022

Cumulus Albuquerque stations held a drive to benefit The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services, providing emergency relief to people affected by the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon wildfires in New Mexico. Cumulus Albuquerque on-air personalities and promotions staff were on hand to collect donations of toiletries, clothing, baby items and certain non-perishable food items.

“We feel for the communities devastated by fires across our state and are honored to help get supplies to the people who need them most,” said Jeff Berry, vice president/market manager, Cumulus Albuquerque. “This is all possible because of our community partners and listeners, who have come together with our radio stations and team to get these products to impacted communities as quickly as possible.”

Cumulus Media Savannah Provides Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 5/4/2022

After a tornado in Bryan County, Ga., devastated several neighborhoods, destroyed at least 18 homes and left around 14,000 residents without power, Cumulus Media Savannah launched a relief drive.

Radio stations WEAS-FM, WTYB-FM, WJCL-FM, and WIXV-FM ran public service announcements on-air, online and on social media to drive donations of food and cash to first responders and residents whose homes were damaged by the tornado. They raised $5,000 and hundreds of meals from community partners Cici’s Pizza, Panera Bread, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Chicken Salad Chick, Krispy Kreme and Horne Law.

Radiothon Raises Funds for Those Impacted by Tonga Eruption, Tsunami

Date Posted: 2/7/2022

The #KokuaforTonga radiothon raised more than $28k for the American Red Cross, Pacific Islands Region, to aid those impacted by the recent eruption and tsunami in Tonga. #KokuaforTonga is a joint effort of iHeartMedia Honolulu and the Red Cross.

The Honolulu community came together to raise more than $20k in just the first 24 hours of #KokuaforTonga. In the following days, cash donations reached more than $28k to help provide urgent relief efforts.

Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Partners with Northport Mayor for Kentucky Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 12/21/2021

Northport, Alabama Mayor Bobby Herndon and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa partnered to raise funds and collect supplies to help the victims of the deadly, destructive tornadoes that tore through the state of Kentucky in December. Together they collected enough clothes, toys, food and hygiene products to fill five U-Haul trailers that were delivered to disaster areas Saturday.

Several local businesses donated supplies for the Kentucky relief drive. Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa radio stations also participated in the drive, broadcasting live from drop-off points and encouraging listeners to donate non-perishable goods to the effort. Representatives from Alt 101.7, 95.3 The Bear, 105.1 The Block and 92.9 WTUG were on site at Herndon’s surveying business all Friday afternoon to draw in donations.

WLX, WDXE and WKSR Radio Raise Funds for New Doppler Radar Site in Tennessee

Date Posted: 11/1/2021

When Lawrence County, Tenn., was struck by three unwarned tornadoes in February 2020, WLX, WDXE and WKSR Radio quickly began raising funds to build a new doppler radar site in Lawrenceburg. The National Weather Service radar over the area at the time did not detect the tornadoes because the twisters were below the radar beam. The stations quickly raised the more than $500,000 needed to build the site, and within months a new radar was in operation. Raising funds to build a new doppler radar site more capable of detecting dangerous tornados, WLX, WDXE and WKSR helped provide a crucial lifesaving service to the Lawrenceburg community. Read more.

‘Hurricane Station’ WWL Acts as a Lifeline to Powerless City

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

After Hurricane Ida left most of New Orleans without power, air conditioning and television, Audacy’s WWL AM/FM New Orleans, La., remained on the air and provided a reliable link between their listeners and the outside world. Known among locals as the “hurricane station,” 19 station employees moved into WWL’s studios the day before to ride out the storm and keep the station broadcasting 24 hours a day to cover the aftermath and provide support for residents in need. They slept on air mattresses, relied on a stockpile of snacks and nonperishable food and hosts worked double shifts, all in an effort to provide round-the-clock coverage. The station fielded thousands of calls from listeners with pleas for help, requests for information about loved ones and questions about general information like where to find gas. Many callers were listening in with old battery-powered radios. “This is one of those moments that just so accentuates the immediate intimate relationship between radio and listeners, and we are here for you,” said WWL host Scott “Scoot” Paisant.

WAFB Educates Viewers on Safe Generator Use During Hurricane Season

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

Gray Television’s CBS affiliate WAFB Baton Rouge, La., prepared their viewers for Hurricane Ida on August 27 by detailing the best practices for safe generator use. While generators can be useful in case of power outages, they also produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas that can kill without warning. Generators should always be placed outside of the home, more than 20 feet away from windows and doors and WAFB encouraged viewers to have a carbon monoxide detector in their homes.

iHeartMedia Houston Helps New Orleans Community

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

In response to Hurricane Ida, iHeartMedia Houston’s seven radio station cluster mobilized with the help of their listeners to fill and deploy dozens of trucks filled with donations for impacted communities. “The people of Houston are very close to the New Orleans community. They came to Houston after Hurricane Katrina and they came and helped us after our last horrible hurricane Harvey,” said Michael Berry, on-air personality in iHeartMedia Houston.

WDSU Urges Viewers to Limit Water Usage to Ease Sewer System Burden

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate WDSU New Orleans, La., urged viewers on September 1 to limit their water usage due to a loss of power at a majority of sewer pumping stations. The wastewater treatment plant, which serves the city’s east bank, was operating using emergency procedures after it lost backup power in the hurricane and vacuum trucks pumped out stations as they filled up, according to the Sewerage & Water Board. New Orleans residents were encouraged to take quick showers, not baths, and limit their use of laundry and dishwashing machines to reduce the burden on the sewer system.

KPEL-FM Highlights Donations for the “Love Truck”

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

On August 30, Townsquare Media’s KPEL-FM Breaux Bridge, La., highlighted donations for the “Love Truck” that were delivered to those affected by Hurricane Ida every morning through September 7. Donations of needed items such as water, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, batteries, nonperishable snacks and more were collected every day at Covenant Church in Lafayette until Labor Day and delivered to people who have had their homes and vehicles flooded or damaged and may be without electricity and cell service.

WNBC Informs Viewers How to Stay Safe in Flood Waters

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

As the remnants of Hurricane Ida produced historic flooding in the Northeast on September 1, triggering the first ever flash food emergency for northeast New Jersey and New York City, NBC-owned WNBC New York, N.Y., informed their viewers how to stay safe before, during and after a flood. The station explained the differences between watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service, emphasized the importance of obeying evacuation orders and avoiding walking or driving through flood waters and warned people to wear the appropriate gear to clean up after the storm and be aware of the risk of electrocution.

WFAN Details Broadcaster Rescue from Flooded Car

Date Posted: 9/14/2021

Audacy’s WFAN AM/FM New York City “Moose and Maggie” show broke the story on September 2 of the rescue of Yankees broadcaster John Sterling from his flooded car by fellow broadcaster Rickie Ricardo due to Hurricane Ida. Ricardo, who is the Spanish broadcast voice of the Yankees, was on his way home from the stadium when he received a call from a colleague about Sterling stuck in his car on a flooded street. Ricardo slowly made his way to where Sterling was on River Road in Edgewater after finally connecting on the phone due to spotty cell service and helped Sterling get out of the flooded car, wade through the water and into his car. It took about another hour to go half a mile to get to Sterling’s home and then an hour after that for Ricardo to make it to his home a mile away, but both were safe after the ordeal.

Louisiana Radio Goes Wall-to-Wall During Hurricane Ida

Date Posted: 8/30/2021

Radio stations across the New Orleans dial aired wall-to-wall storm coverage Sunday as Hurricane Ida lashed southeast Louisiana with storm surge, high winds and flooding rain. Throughout the day and into the night, broadcast crews, which have been through this numerous times – including 16 years ago to the day when Hurricane Katrina pummeled the region – worked with TV and news network partners to keep residents informed and safe from destructive winds and torrential rain.

Read the full story at InsideRadio.com.

WGNO Continues Broadcast Through Hurricane, Newsroom Damage

Date Posted: 8/30/2021

ABC affiliate WGNO-TV in New Orleans continued to broadcast despite damages to their building, the roof being torn from the newsroom and a staff evacuation in the midst of Hurricane Ida. The station continued to live-stream coverage of the storm, important safety reminders and initiatives.

WFTX-TV Interviews Emergency Manager Ahead of Hurricane Elsa

Date Posted: 7/27/2021

Ahead of Hurricane Elsa making landfall (later downgraded to a tropical storm), E.W. Scripps Company’s Fox affiliate WFTX-TV Cape Coral, Fla., interviewed Patrick Fuller, director, Charlotte County Emergency Management, on July 4 about the preparations for the storm, lessons learned from a previous direct hit from Hurricane Charley in 2004 and how to plan for the rest of hurricane season. Fuller encouraged viewers to be mindful of the threat of storm surge during hurricane season and to know what evacuation zone they reside in, as well as develop a disaster kit and plan for where to go in case of an evacuation.

Nashville Stations Lead Coverage Through Flood Emergency

Date Posted: 3/30/2021

Radio stations across Nashville in stayed on-air and broadcasting through emergency flooding during the end of March flooding.

“I am pleased that all five of our stations stayed on without any issues,” Cumulus Media VP and Nashville area manager Charlie Cook told Country Insider. “103.3 Country” WKDF, one of the cluster’s country stations along with “95.5 Nash Icon” WSM-FM, had a 15-second blip Saturday night that Cook says may or may not have been weather-related.

“Our engineering staff has worked hard over the last year to get the stations to a point where we are confident about their stability,” he said. “Because everything is being done remotely right now it is more difficult than just doing current information over song intros, so the jocks had to stay on top of the changing weather and get into the RVT system to keep the listeners informed, but they know the drill and I was pleased with their performances.”

iHeartMedia Atlanta and WGCL Provide Relief to Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 3/29/2021

iHeartMedia Atlanta stations partnered with local television station CBS affiliate WGCL-TV to collect water and toiletries over the weekend of March 28 to benefit the many tornado victims of Coweta county in the parking lot of the headquarters.

During the collection on Saturday, March 27, iHeartMedia Atlanta on-air personalities encouraged listeners to stop by the radio station with their donations.

WAPT’s Water Drive Distributes 1.1 Million Bottles of Water

Date Posted: 3/9/2021

In response to the ongoing water crisis, WAPT, Hearst’s ABC affiliate in Jackson, Miss., launched a water drive, collecting more than 1.1 million bottles. The water donations began distribution less than 24 hours later to metro families impacted by Jackson’s catastrophic loss of water.

The water crisis began during February’s historic ice storm and sub-zero temperatures, leaving a large portion of the city without water for nearly a month.

“It’s times like these that Mississippi generosity shines more than ever,” says Mike Neelly, WAPT’s general manager, “and our community surpassed all expectations with an incredible display of giving.”

KSAT San Antonio Highlights Agriculture Losses Due to Storm

Date Posted: 3/3/2021

Graham Media Group’s KSAT-TV San Antonio, Texas, highlighted on March 3 the estimated $605 million in agricultural losses due to the winter storm. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, the figure includes losses to the livestock and poultry industries, the cost of keeping animals warm and the animals that died due to the cold. Dr. David Anderson, the education agency’s livestock economist, said that cattle needed to eat in order to create the energy to stay warm. “More hay was put out, more feed put out, and (there is) more cost because of that,” Anderson said. He added that even though the losses will be costly to cattle and poultry producers, because Texas also has out-of-state suppliers, “oftentimes, storms like this cause some short-term market turmoil but really don’t result in higher prices for consumers at the grocery store.”

KTVT Fort Worth Warns Viewers About Unlicensed Contractors

Date Posted: 3/1/2021

CBS-owned KTVT Fort Worth, Texas, warned their viewers on March 1 against hiring unlicensed contractors to clean up the damage to their homes after the winter storm. Due to the disaster declaration issued by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, out-of-state and unlicensed contractors can obtain temporary registration and perform work on storm-damaged properties in the state. KTVT spoke with Mold Inspection Sciences Texas about the dangers of hiring unlicensed or unqualified contractors to handle mold assessment, remediation and material removal due to burst pipes. “We’ve seen this happen before,” said Mold Inspection Sciences Texas Chief Operating Officer Mike Marshall. “Six, eight, 12 months down the road, state-licensed mold assessors and remediators come back to find ‘fixed’ properties worse off than they were from the initial damage.”

Broadcaster Secure Life-Saving Information Access for Texas Families

Date Posted: 2/28/2021

The Broadcasters Foundation of America is providing emergency assistance to help ensure Texas families have access to life-saving information as the winter storm continues to impact the area.

The grants benefit broadcasters so they can broadcast through the power outages and grid failure. The information broadcasters disseminate during this time is critical to protect families and local people seeking assistance and guidance during the blizzard.

Houston Public Media Spotlights Water Crisis

Date Posted: 2/26/2021

University of Houston’s Houston Public Media reported on February 26 on those in the Houston area who were still without water a week after the winter storm. Some in Houston’s Fifth Ward still had burst water pipes in their homes that had not been fixed, forcing them to rely on borrowed water and bottled water to bathe, cook, drink, wash dishes, flush the toilet and brush teeth. After the storm that left more than 8 million under a boil water advisory, some communities had not been able to bounce back as quickly even when the notice was lifted, highlighting racial inequities. Volunteer Amatullah Contractor helped coordinate a food and water drive on February 25 in the historically Black neighborhood after seeing the extraordinary need when she dropped off a few cases of water earlier in the week. “People just started coming out of their homes because they saw people were gathering around me and they saw that I was holding a water case and they were like, ‘Hey, can we get a case, can we get a case, can we get some water,’” Contractor said. “And it was just like the worst feeling because I only had three cases in my car.”

KERA-FM Dallas Reports on Emergency Home Repair Program

Date Posted: 2/25/2021

North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA-FM Dallas, Texas, reported on February 25 about a program passed by the city council that will grant low-income Dallas residents up to $10,000 per household to repair home damage caused by the winter storm. The total funding available is $2 million, and eligible recipients must be homeowners within the city of Dallas and have experienced damage to their homes since February 11 when freezing temperatures occurred. Recipients must also earn at or below 80% of the area median income, which is about $60,000 for a household of four, according to the city. There is also lingering concern about raising awareness about the program for homeowners who do not have internet access. “My concern is that it is going to be very difficult to share this with equity,” council member Tennell Atkins said.

KTBC Austin Covers Severe Cold Weather

Date Posted: 2/23/2021

The employees at Fox-owned KTBC Austin, Texas, who were also dealing with no power or water, stayed in hotel rooms or at the station to continue providing news coverage to viewers. KTBC booked 15 hotel rooms and the engineering, operations and news departments had eight employees stay overnight at the station February 15-19, using the station’s emergency supply of bottled water and Meals Ready-To-Eat (MREs). Despite the conditions inside and outside of the facility, KTBC produced nine hours of news per day, along with five-minute news updates every 30 minutes between newscasts. They also carried three live press conferences daily on air and on social media. In between newscasts, the news teams shared the latest information in real time on social media.

TEGNA Texas Prepares for Storm

Date Posted: 2/22/2021

TEGNA Senior Vice President Brad Ramsey, president and general manager at ABC affiliate WFAA Dallas, Texas, spoke with TVSpy on Feb. 22 about their preparation for the winter weather. As senior vice president, Ramsey also oversees stations in 11 Texas markets. TEGNA stations cover 87% of households in the state and the station group has nearly 1,200 employees across Texas. “We knew in the middle of last week that this was going to be a historic Texas storm, and we were largely prepared for the storm itself. Our stations started booking hotel rooms last Friday and Saturday, for what we knew would be extended hotel stays near our stations,” said Ramsey. “What we were not prepared for, and what the entire state of Texas was not prepared for, was the rolling blackouts not rolling. It became clear Monday afternoon that they were simply blackouts. I would estimate that more than half of our 1,200 employees in Texas were without power at some point Monday and/or Tuesday, and a notable portion of them for 24-36 hours straight, or more…that’s when we realized we had more of a humanitarian crisis than a weather crisis.”

Ramsey discussed the storm prep meetings held at stations across the state, many of them including the chief meteorologists, and the effort to shift resources to digital content in anticipation of power outages. “On Tuesday, at the height of the power outages, we had nearly 4 million visitors to our websites across Texas. I think at least part of our success can be attributed to focusing just as much on the written word as we did on video, knowing that cell service was jammed in a lot of places and for many consumers it was easier to access text than video.” Ramsey said their top priority is keeping people safe in times of crisis, especially when it comes to their employees. “I tell our teams in times like this that no soundbite, no piece of video, no story is more important than their own well-being. If our people aren’t fed, warm and safe they can’t do their jobs. We were more so in the people business than the media business this week.”

Entercom Texas Radio Stations Fight to Stay On Air Amid Power Outages

Date Posted: 2/19/2021

Entercom Communications Corporation’s radio stations in Texas fought to stay on the air amid power outages due to the winter storm. At KRLD-FM Dallas, Brand Manager Gavin Spittle scrambled to relocate studio equipment and connect it into power generators on different floors of the station building. George Lindsey, morning show host at KILT-FM Houston, lost power at his home and stayed at the studio with his wife, working together to provide critical news and answer listener calls. Ten other employees joined Lindsey at the station for several nights, maintaining COVID-19 protocols and relying on the 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel for the generators. Entercom’s four stations in Austin, including KKMJ-FM and KAMX-FM, endured power outages when transmitters lost power and needed to switch to backup generators, leading to five or six 30-second bursts of dead air. The morning show at KAMX-FM often shifted focus from its normal entertainment news format to providing critical emergency information. “Our show is very entertainment-based, very relationship-driven. We reined back quite a few segments and focused more on what was happening,” said co-host Brad Booker. “Radio is still the number one way of getting content.”

KXAN Austin Investigates Power Bill Concerns

Date Posted: 2/19/2021

Nexstar Media Group’s NBC affiliate KXAN-TV Austin, Texas, investigated on February 19 viewer concerns about high electricity bills in the aftermath of the winter storms. Some viewers who just got their lights back on were already seeing warnings about high electricity bills even during the outages, and those who never lost power braced themselves for bills hundreds of dollars higher than normal. Investigative reporter Avery Travis reported on the different electric company providers and rate plans available to Texans, the difference between wholesale prices and retail prices and how energy consumption in the days before the storm and during peak times could also affect customers’ electric bills.

WVTM Raises $70,000 For Tornado Victims In Single Day

Date Posted: 2/3/2021

A local Birmingham, Ala. tv station raised more than $70,000 in a single day to help tornado victims recover and rebuild. Starting at 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 2, Hearst Television’s ABC affiliate WVTM-TV hosted a donor drive and presented live-cuts and coverage throughout the day to encourage the viewing area to participate.

“Central Alabamians are a generous group and as our neighbors mourn, heal, rebuild and recover, we know these funds will help those impacted by the tornado,” said WVTM-TV President and General Manager Susana Schuler. “In times of need the people of Alabama unite around each other and we truly want to thank our audience...for their generosity.”

KOBI and KOTI Provide Life-Saving Fire Coverage

Date Posted: 10/7/2020

California Oregon Broadcasting’s KOBI and KOTI Medford, Ore., provided life-saving coverage of the Almeda wildfires that destroyed over 2,600 residences and more than 180 businesses in September. They supplemented regular newscasts by continuously crawling the most current evacuation level information for residents in the areas being affected. During the fast-moving, devastating fire, they streamed a live view from their Sky Cam, accompanied by scanner audio from the local emergency services personnel. Local residents used this information source as they prepared to evacuate.

They also created an on-line resource guide that coordinated information for evacuees on where to stay, eat, and get needed supplies, and simultaneously to point generous community members to places to donate food, clothing, and necessities, as well as funds set up to help with urgent needs as well as short and long-term rebuilding. As of September 30th, this page had been accessed over 11,000 times by users.

“KOBI has been essential during all of these fires,” said viewer Randy McKay. “In Ashland, we were trapped on one side of the fire while my mom was on the other needing to be evacuated from harm’s way at her home in Talent and we could not reach her. It was panic-inducing. And when first the internet and then cellular communications failed, KOBI was the more reliable and constant source of information.”

“I survived by watching Facebook KOBI-TV because they kept a live feed of the video from the manor and live broadcast of the dispatch where I could hear all the evacuation notices and knew the direction the fire was headed,” said viewer Angalee O’Connor.

KSBW Raises Over $140,000 for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 9/22/2020

Hearst’s KSBW in Salinas, Calif., partnered with the American Red Cross of the Central Coast for a fundraiser on September 22 that raised nearly $141,000 to support wildfire relief efforts on California’s Central Coast. The station promoted the drive throughout the day, including during each edition of KSBW Action News 8. The CZU Lightning Complex fire, River fire, Carmel fire and Dolan fire destroyed nearly 1,600 structures and killed one person as they spread over close to 270,000 acres in Santa Cruz and Monterey County.

“We are honored to have partnered with the American Red Cross to help raise funds for our neighbors who were greatly affected by the wildfires,’” said General Manager Laura Williamson. “We extend our deepest gratitude to our viewers and community partners for joining us in this endeavor.”

WDSU Provides 660,000 Meals for Hurricane Laura Victims

Date Posted: 9/2/2020

Hearst’s WDSU New Orleans organized a telethon after Hurricane Laura hit on August 27. While the category 4 hurricane largely spared New Orleans, Hurricane Laura hit Louisiana’s coast of hard. The ensuing destruction forced many to evacuate to New Orleans. WDSU’s telethon resulted in 660,000 meals for local residents affected by the storm.

WAAO Supports Neighbors After Isaias

Date Posted: 9/1/2020

Three Notch Communication’s WAAO-FM and WAAO-TV Andalusia, Ala., reached out to their community over the air, as well as through WAAO social media platforms, requesting hurricane relief supplies and donations for the people of the Lake Charles, LA area last week after Hurricane Laura devastated communities there. Local law enforcement agencies got involved, as did the local Ford dealership which loaned a trailer to transport the supplies. Donations poured in at the Andalusia, Opp and Florala, Alabama, Police Departments, the Covington County Sheriff’s Office and to WAAO Studios.

Monday morning, Sheriff’s Posse Captain Joe Barton (who is also a Covington County Commissioner) and Posse member Frank Butts and his wife left for Louisiana with two trucks, trailers, fuel transfer tanks full of generator gas, diesel fuel, ice and cash to deliver these hurricane supplies to people in need. The residents were very grateful for what these supplies will do for them in their time of need. They were so thankful and humbled that a small community in Alabama would think of them in this trying time.

Iowa TV Stations Raise $207,000 for Derecho Relief

Date Posted: 8/27/2020

Iowa television stations rallied together on August 27 to raise $207,000 for relief efforts following a derecho that hit Eastern Iowa on August 10, destroying massive swaths of crops and wreaking havoc on local communities. Gray’s KCRG Cedar Rapids, Sinclair’s KGAN Cedar Rapids and Waterloo Quincy’s KWWL Waterloo coordinated the “Eastern Iowa United” day-long community fundraiser. The money will help relief efforts through the United Way of East Central Iowa, United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties, and the Cedar Valley United Way.

“Knowing we raised $207,000 to help so many in need today and for a long time to come, is why Local TV is so vital,” said KCRG VP and GM Thom Pritz. “I’m also so very proud of KCRG’s parent company, Gray Television, who stepped up with an impressive $25,000 donation to Eastern Iowa United and The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. “

“This is a prime example of the importance of local broadcasters to their communities,” Regional Vice President Jim McKernan added.

Connecticut Broadcasters Cover Isaias

Date Posted: 8/5/2020

Television and radio broadcasters in Connecticut provided extensive coverage of Isaias, beginning days before the storm made landfall. As the storm approached, stations interrupted regularly-scheduled programming to provide wall-to-wall coverage and activated the EAS system due to the threat of tornadoes. For most stations, the coverage contained little or no commercial inventory. Tropical storms are unusual in Connecticut, but broadcasters rose to the occasion to serve their communities, as always.

East Coast Radio Prepares for Isaias

Date Posted: 8/4/2020

As tropical storm Isaias approached the East Coast, radio stations began implementing preparedness plans. Entercom’s WLYF-FM and WMXJ-FM Miami launched a “Tracking the Tropics" resource page on their websites’ homepages that included links to the National Hurricane Center, to BH Media Group’s WPLG-TV and to Miami-Dade and Broward county government websites. WLYF and WMXJ also provided regular, live updates during the storm, while also reminding listeners to keep checking the “Tracking the Tropics” page.

WPTV Provides Live Coverage of Isaias While Working Remotely

Date Posted: 8/4/2020

Scripps’ WPTV West Palm Beach provided viewers with weather coverage of Isaias for more than 20 hours. The COVID-19 crisis caused WPTV to update the usual in-person all-hands-on-deck approach, including food planning and sleeping arrangements at the station. They directed, produced and edited stories remotely, while maintaining safe social distancing at all times. View coverage here.

Beasley Media Group Stations Prepare for the Storm

Date Posted: 8/4/2020

Beasley Media Group stations across the East Coast prepared extensively for Hurricane Isaias. They issued an overview by market of how stations were preparing for the storm and ensuring they provided continuous updates to communities in Wilmington, Del.; Fayetteville, N.C.; Augusta, Ga.; New Jersey; Philadelphia; Tampa; Ft. Myers, Fla., and Boston, Mass. All Beasley clusters monitored the storm closely, provided critical updates over the air and created dedicated pages on their digital platforms.

Tennessee Broadcasters Provide Lifeline Tornado Coverage

Date Posted: 4/20/2020

Radio and television stations provided lifeline coverage of tornadoes that touched down in Chattanooga on April 12. The EF-3 tornado reached winds of 145 miles an hour, killing two and causing significant damage to homes and businesses. Members of the community expressed their appreciation to broadcasters for their potentially life saving coverage. Watch video from the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters here.

TEGNA’s ‘Facts Not Fear’ Approach to Coronavirus

Date Posted: 2/28/2020

TEGNA stations are committed to a “Facts Not Fear” approach to reporting on the coronavirus outbreak, with a focus on providing context and perspective, while not downplaying the severity of the situation. TEGNA is paying close attention to the graphics stations use and encourages reporters to take the time needed to ensure they report accurate information. National and local fact-checking teams at TEGNA’s project Verify are focused on coronavirus misinformation and are creating accurate reports.

NBC affiliate KPNX aired a segment addressing rumors about how coronavirus might spread on international flights.

NBC affiliate KUSA Denver produced an 80-second video mission statement promising viewers that it will not “play on our fears and yours” with click-bait headlines. It also pledged not to “guess or speculate or assume,” but instead seek out multiple experts and vetted sources.

NBC affiliate KSDK St. Louis also aired a segment about TEGNA’s “Facts Not Fear” approach. The station offered a phone number so viewers can text questions about the coronavirus and receive answers from medical professionals.

“Our journalists and our news leaders are handling this with such care and such a commitment to help their communities,” said TEGNA VP of News Ellen Crooke. “They have a great sense of this is a duty to our country, to do this well and to do this properly.”

WVTM Raises $70,000 For Tornado Victims In Single Day

Date Posted: 2/3/2020

A local Birmingham, Ala. tv station raised more than $70,000 in a single day to help tornado victims recover and rebuild. Starting at 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 2, Hearst Television’s ABC affiliate WVTM-TV hosted a donor drive and presented live-cuts and coverage throughout the day to encourage the viewing area to participate.

“Central Alabamians are a generous group and as our neighbors mourn, heal, rebuild and recover, we know these funds will help those impacted by the tornado,” said WVTM-TV President and General Manager Susana Schuler. “In times of need the people of Alabama unite around each other and we truly want to thank our audience...for their generosity.”

Three Eagles Radio Covers Wildfire

Date Posted: 11/1/2019

Three Eagles Communications’ KBVC-FM Buena Vista, Colo., provided wall-to-wall coverage of the Decker wildfire in Salida, Colo., that began in September and burned for more than five weeks. The Decker fire spread over 8,118 acres. KBVC provided lifeline coverage, even as the fire forced three of the station’s four transmitters to alternate broadcast sites. “We at Heart of the Rockies Radio believe to be there at the time of need to relay important information in a timely and non-sensational manner is the cornerstone of being a true, live local radio station,” said a station promo. Listen to the full clip.

Telemundo Launches #LatinoStrong

Date Posted: 9/3/2019

Telemundo launched on August 8 “#LatinoStrong, Unidos Contra el Odio,” an on-air and digital initiative dedicated to supporting the Hispanic community in the U.S. following mass shootings in El Paso, TX, and Dayton, OH, on August 3. It includes “Profiles of Courage,” which shares stories and contributions of Hispanics across the country. Telemundo has partnered with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Communities Against Hate (CAH), The Leadership Conference Education Fund and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. CAH is a national initiative that encourages people to share stories of hate and provides access to legal and social services.

“As the Spanish-language network in the U.S. representing 60 million Latinos, it is our responsibility and commitment to U.S. Hispanics to provide support during these difficult times … We stand with all communities in promoting unity and eradicating acts of violence,” said Senior Vice President of Corporate and External Affairs Christina Kolbjornsen.

Univision Airs Special on El Paso Shooting

Date Posted: 9/2/2019

Univision aired on August 5 an hour-long news special, “Univision News Presents: Hispanics in the Crosshairs,” to address the El Paso massacre on August 3. Univision examined the anti-Hispanic manifesto attributed to the man who killed 22 people in a Walmart (reportedly targeting recent immigrants), the victims’ stories, the President’s comments and the gun control debate. Jorge Ramos and Patricia Janoit hosted the special, which also live streamed on Facebook, Periscope and YouTube.

WXIX Hosts Tornado Relief Telethon

Date Posted: 7/1/2019

Gray’s Fox affiliate WXIX Cincinnati raised $77,000 in a telethon held May 30 after a record 18 tornadoes touched down near Dayton on May 27. One tornado reached an estimated maximum wind speed of 170 mph making it an EF4, the second strongest on the enhanced Fujita scale.

“We wanted our neighbors to the north to know Cincinnati and Tri-State viewers were here to support them as they recover,” said Creative Services Director Dom Nardo.

Zimmer Broadcasting Airs Critical Tornado Coverage

Date Posted: 6/19/2019

Zimmer Radio’s nine stations provided ten hours critical wall-to-wall tornado coverage from late on May 22 through the morning of May 23. Coverage preempted all promotions and included calls from listeners and information from emergency personnel. The stations aired live press conferences with Jefferson City Police Department and a live call from Governor Parson. A listener shared this message:

“As a member of Mid Missouri, I wanted to take the time today to say thank you. In the minutes following the storms and tornado that struck Eldon and Jeff City areas, you all stopped normal operations to become the calm, responsible voice that people needed for help and reassurance.

You all acted like responsible journalists and reported facts and didn’t rush to report anything sensational or create an atmosphere of fear. You helped people and genuinely cared for the safety and well-being of those affected by this disaster. You put people before profit and are an example of how businesses and companies should operate.”

KOAM-TV Saves Lives During Tornado

Date Posted: 6/19/2019

Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves wrote a letter thanking Morgan Murphy Media’s CBS affiliate KOAM-TV Joplin, MO., for their “amazing coverage” of tornados that landed in late May 2019. "Their efforts to provide timely and accurate information to the public, without a doubt in my mind, allowed us to escape any serious injuries or deaths in our immediate area."

Cox Media Group Tulsa Rallies Behind Flood Victims

Date Posted: 6/1/2019

Cox Media’s Tulsa Cluster – KRMG-AM, KWEN-FM, KRAV-FM, and KJSR-FM – and Cox Media’s FOX affiliate KOKI-TV Tulsa partnered with the American Red Cross of Oklahoma to raise money for disaster relief efforts in the wake of tornadoes and historic flooding. In addition to the broadcast campaign to encourage online donations, all stations participated in a live, 13-hour fundraiser on May 30. All funds raised will be used to help Oklahomans impacted by the recent storms.

Local Stations Recognized for ‘First Informer’ Role in Wake of Disasters

Date Posted: 5/31/2019

Radio Ink published features on the roles of Zimmer Radio in Missouri and Cox Media Group in Ohio in informing their communities as they braced for devastating storms and tornadoes this May. The stories feature interviews with Zimmer Radio Missouri Operations Manager Thom Watts and Cox’s WHIO-AM/FM/TV Program Director Jeremy Ratliff that detail the stations’ preparedness and emergency procedures that allowed them to stay on the air and keep their listeners and viewers informed and safe.

Gray TV Stations Serve as Lifeline During Tornadoes

Date Posted: 5/30/2019

Gray Television’s FOX affiliate WBRC-TV, ABC affiliate WTVM-TV and NBC affiliates WSFA-TV and WALB-TV were among the local broadcasters that provided wall-to-wall coverage of the March tornadoes that killed 23 people in Lee County, Ala. Watch this video to get a behind-the-scenes look at the way Gray Television Stations alerted their community prior to, informed viewers during and provided support after the devastating storms.

KZKX Lincoln Raises over $60,000 for American Red Cross Flood Relief

Date Posted: 5/7/2019

Alpha Media’s KZKX-FM Lincoln, NE along with the Starlite Event Center, raised over $60,000 for American Red Cross Nebraska Flood Relief Campaign during a one-night benefit concert event near Wahoo, NE on March 29. The evening included a meal donated by Frontier Coop, a silent and live auction of donated items held by Sanderson Auctioneers, and entertainment from local bands Dylan Bloom, Bucka Ruse, and Sack of Lions. All funds raised were donated to the American Red Cross Nebraska Flood Relief Campaign. As the record severe flooding began to impact the state on March 14, KZKX air talent Coryelle Thomas suggested the Starlite Event Center would be an ideal location for a fundraising event. From there, the community stepped up and the result was an amazing evening of fun and outpouring of support

Broadcasters Raise Money for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 5/6/2019

On Sunday March 3rd, a series of several violent tornadoes impacted east Alabama and southwest Georgia. The storm claimed 23 lives in Lee County, Alabama and left a widespread trail of damage throughout Georgia. The next morning, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency in Grady, Harris, and Talbot counties.

Georgia broadcasters moved swiftly into action, fulfilling their roles as “first informers.” Chief Meteorologist David Kincaid of Gray Television’s ABC affiliate WTVM Columbus began warning viewers of the dangers of these storms on air Thursday.

After the storm had passed, news stations in Georgia and Alabama began working together to aid the victims of Sunday’s tragedy. Nexstar’s CBS affiliate WRBL Columbus partnered with Columbus Radio group, PMB Broadcasting for a day-long tornado relief campaign. They set up an online donation portal through the American Red Cross and two donation drop off locations. Together they raised $64,055 to help support the lives impacted by Sunday’s tornadoes.

WTVM also held a telethon on Wednesday with Gray Television and helped raise $327,000.

The tornadoes destroyed more than 1,000 homes and hundreds of people are currently homeless or displaced.

Nebraska Broadcasters Support Flood Relief

Date Posted: 4/1/2019

Broadcasters across Nebraska raised $442,000 during the “#NebraskaStrong Drive for Flood Relief,” held March 22 to support American Red Cross relief efforts following flooding that killed two and caused billions of dollars in damage. The Nebraska Broadcasters Association donated $20,000 to kick off the drive. Hearst’s ABC affiliate KETV Omaha and Gray Television donated $10,000 each, and Scripps’ CBS affiliate KMTV Omaha and Citadel’s KLKN Lincoln contributed $5,000 each. Governor Ricketts, First Lady Susanne Shore and Senators Deb Fischer and Ben Sasse fielded donor phone calls during the event.

“We tell stories that connect us and provide a pathway to help those in need throughout our viewer and listening areas, from all across Nebraska and into western Iowa,” said Chairperson of the NBA Board of Directors and KETV President / GM Ariel Roblin. “From lifesaving storm coverage to fundraising hundreds of thousands of dollars for relief and recovery, we come together for a stronger Nebraska.”

“Susanne and I also want to thank the Nebraska Broadcasters who have led this effort and done an incredible job of helping keep people safe throughout the flooding,” said Governor Ricketts.

Townsquare Tuscaloosa Holds Tornado Relief Drive

Date Posted: 4/1/2019

Townsquare Media’s WQRR-FM, WFFN-FM, WTUG-FM, WTBC-FM, WTUG-FM, WTSK-FM and WTID-FM Tuscaloosa held a ‘Tide for Tigers’ drive on March 4 – 12 to support tornado relief efforts. A truck-full of canned foods, bottled water, toiletries, diapers and cleaning supplies was delivered on March 13.

“Tuscaloosa knows all too well the pain a community feels as they start to recover from a storm such as this,” said Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Market President David DuBose. “We hope the supplies we deliver to Lee County Wednesday will alleviate some small part of that pain.”

NRG Cluster Aids Flood Victims

Date Posted: 3/31/2019

NRG Media’s Omaha cluster — in partnership with the Salvation Army — collected more than 160,000 bottles of water in a drive held March 15 – 16 to support victims of the recent extreme flooding.

“Nebraskans were in need, and our team knew we had to do something,” said Market Manager Mark Shecterle. “We committed our entire staff and resources to make this happen.”

Relief Efforts for Southern Tornados

Date Posted: 3/7/2019

Initial calculations show that stations raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for relief efforts. Online donations are still being accepted and totals continue to be tallied, but results include:

  • Gray Television stations raised a total of $323,500
  • Fox affiliate WBRC-TV Birmingham - $129,000
    NBC affiliate WSFA-TV Montgomery - $120,000
    NBC affiliate WAFF-TV Huntsville - $56,000
    ABC affiliate WTVM-TV Columbus, Ga., - $16,000
    CBS affiliate WTVY-TV Dothan - $3,000
  • Hearst’s NBC affiliate WVTM-TV Birmingham
  • Nexstar’s CBS affiliate WKRG Mobile ($29,000 raised)
  • Tribune’s CBS affiliate WHNT-TV Huntsville ($27,000 raised)
  • iHeartMedia Alabama radio stations
  • Marble City Media’s WFXO-FM Stewartville, WYEA-FM Sylacauga, WRFS-FM Rockford and WAUA-FM Waverly
  • Little Engine Broadcasting radio stations
Stations across the region also raised $566,000 for the the American Red Cross. Stations raised the totally directly during broadcast telethon held on March 7.

The Georgia Association of Broadcasters encouraged its member station to participate in the tornado relief efforts. Raycom’s ABC affiliate WTVM Columbus held a telethon on March 6 and Nexstar’s CBS affiliate WRBL and PMB Broadcasting in Columbus held fundraisers on March 7.

Alabama Broadcasters Support Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 3/6/2019

Broadcasters across Alabama partnered with the Alabama Broadcasters Association on a day-long roadblock on March 6 to support American Red Cross relief efforts following the devastating tornado in Lee County on March 4. The mile-wide tornado sustained 170 mph winds and killed 23 people. Participating stations include Hearst’s NBC affiliate WVTM Birmingham, Tribune’s CBS affiliate WHNT Huntsville, Gray’s Fox affiliate WBRC Birmingham and iHeartMedia radio stations. WVTM’s promotional plans include mentions in all newscasts, promotions at the top of each hour, an all-day crawl on air, expanded coverage of damage and relief efforts during the 11 am and 6 pm newscasts, and live-streaming on digital and social properties.

“We will come together for Alabama as a group on Wednesday, March 6th to raise money and collect needed items for those who’ve lost so much. Broadcasters are always there for the communities they serve and at times like these, we bring everyone together in a way like no other,” said President of the Alabama Broadcasters Association Sharon Tinsley.

First Informers Video: Hurricanes Florence, Michael

    View Video
Date Posted: 3/1/2019

NAB and the Broadcast Education Association presented the sixth installment in a powerful video series demonstrating the indispensable role that local radio and television broadcasters serve as “first informers” during times of emergency. The latest film focuses on broadcasters’ heroic response to Hurricane Florence and Hurricane Michael, which devasted the Carolinas, Florida Panhandle and other parts of the southeastern United States in September and October 2018. View the video here.

Pittsburgh Radio Supports Tree of Life

Date Posted: 12/6/2018

Entercom’s WBZZ-FM and WDSY-FM Pittsburgh hosted on December 2 “A Concert for Unity” to benefit the rebuilding of Tree of Life – Or L’Simcha Congregation. Eleven people died and several more were injured during a shooting at the synagogue on October 27.

“On behalf of our entire congregation, I wish to thank all who are involved in this amazing effort to support the rebuilding of our synagogue,” said Congregation President Samuel K. Schachner, Ph.D. “This proves that love truly is stronger than hate.”

KCRA and Hearst Raise $1.7 Million For Wildfire Victims

Date Posted: 12/6/2018

Hearst’s NBC affiliate KCRA and MyNetworkTV affiliate KQCA-TV Sacramento raised $1.25 million on November 12 to support the Camp Fire wildfire relief efforts. Hearst Corp. donated an additional $500,000. The deadliest fire in California history, the Camp Fire killed 42 people while scorching 125,000 acres and forcing 52,000 people to evacuate their homes. “Our hearts go out to those who lost their homes, property and most sadly, to those who lost loved ones,” said News Director Lori Waldon. “All day long, our phone lines were ringing off the hook. A big thank you to our viewers who reached out to help those in need.”

KRXQ-FM Helps Fire Victims

Date Posted: 12/1/2018

Entercom’s KRXQ-FM Sacramento collected donations on November 13 for families affected by the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. Items included baby food, diapers, clothing, and non-perishable food.

TEGNA Raises Money for Wildfire Victims

Date Posted: 12/1/2018

TEGNA recently launched a nationwide #CaliforniaGiving campaign. People can donate on station websites to assist wildfire relief efforts through a variety of nonprofits, including Jake’s Diapers, World Central Kitchen and California Fire Foundation.

In addition to providing extensive coverage of the fires, ABC affiliate KXTV Sacramento reporter Brandon Rittiman and photojournalist Pedro Garcia rescued four stranded dogs while covering the Camp Fire evacuations. Watch the rescue.

Broadcasters: A Lifeline During Hurricane Michael

Date Posted: 11/4/2018

Broadcasters in Florida and across the U.S. provided lifeline coverage before, during and after Hurricane Michael landed on October 10. It caused $8 billion in damage and killed 16 people in Florida and at least 10 in other states. Down power grids and severe damage to newsrooms did not stop coverage. Broadcasters aired more than 70,000 reports on Hurricane Michael, with stations breaking into scheduled programming as many as four times per hour. Radio provided more than 700 hours of coverage. Florida broadcasters aired more than 400 hours of hurricane coverage.

“Another familiar aspect is local radio and TV broadcasters were unsung heroes in their first informer roles and in the aftermath,” said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai.

Nexstar’s ABC affiliate WMBB Panama City and Gray’s NBC affiliate WJHG Panama City were knocked off the air but continued to provide local citizens with critical safety information. Gulf Coast State College’s WKGC-FM Panama City evacuated to a remote studio at the Bay County Emergency Operation Center. They remained there for at least two weeks, providing cleanup information and food and water locations.

“Part of the WKGC mission has always been to provide information before, during and after a storm,” said Station Manager Scott Kirkman.

Read more about how radio prepared for the storm and how networks covered Hurricane Michael.

WVTM Hosts Hurricane Relief Drive

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WVTM-TV Birmingham and the Central Alabama Chapter of the American Red Cross raised $21,000 in a 14-hour telethon on October 12 for Hurricane Michael relief. Wells Fargo donated $500,000 the American Red Cross during the 5 p.m. newscast.

WAAO-FM Collects Supplies

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

Three Notch Communication’s WAAO-FM Andalusia, Ala., collected supplies in October for Hurricane Michael relief efforts. Items delivered to rural Florida included emergency and cleaning supplies, toiletries, non-perishable food, water, coolers, charcoal, clothes, first aid kits, diapers, baby wipes, blankets, pillows, paper products, batteries, radios and cell phone chargers.

Nebraska Broadcasters Association Donates $5,000 to Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

The Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) donated $5,000 to the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFA) to support of broadcasters impacted by hurricanes Florence and Michael. “The lifesaving coverage that our colleagues provide in emergency situations is an integral part of broadcasters’ shared mission to always serve our communities,” said NBA Board Chair and GM of Hearst’s ABC affiliate KETV Omaha Ariel Roblin. “We are proud that this donation will provide needed resources for our fellow broadcasters who put themselves on the front line.”

WXIX Raises $45,000 for Hurricane Michael Relief

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

Raycom’s Fox affiliate WXIX Cincinnati raised $45,000 on October 15 for Hurricane Michael relief efforts. “While watching the unfolding story of Hurricane Michael, it became clear FOX19 NOW needed to become involved and send help to those suffering after the storm’s devastation,” said GM Debbie Bush.

WDSU Raises $45,000 for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 11/1/2018

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WDSU New Orleans and the Second Harvest Food raised $45,000 in the “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” telethon on October 12. The donations collected will provide food, water and cleaning supplies for those affected by Hurricane Michael. “This city knows how devastating it can be to lose everything,” said General Manager Joel Vilmenay, “WDSU is proud to help connect our community to the victims of Hurricane Michael.”

WGHP Holds 13-Hour Telethon, Raises $122K for Hurricane Florence Victims

Date Posted: 10/31/2018

Tribune’s Fox affiliate WGHP-TV High Point, N.C., raised $122,000 for hurricane relief efforts in a 13-hour telethon held September 19. “The Salvation Army is extremely blessed by our generous community and great partners like WGHP who helped us accomplish an amazing goal today,” said Captain Matt Hedgren of the Salvation Army.

WKOW Madison Aids Wisconsin Flood Victims

Date Posted: 10/3/2018

Quincy Media’s ABC affiliate WKOW-TV teamed up with the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross to hold a live telethon on September 6 that raised almost $130,000 for flood relief. During the devastation of Hurricane Florence in other areas of the country, flooding due to unprecedented rainfall caused widespread damage in South Central Wisconsin.

“This disaster hit us hard here at home, but our viewers and community organizations still stepped up to help their neighbors,” said WKOW News Director Ed Reams.

“Wisconsin Strong” Radiothon Helps Storm Victims

Date Posted: 10/3/2018

E. W. Scripps’ WTMJ-AM Milwaukee raised more than $40,000 for the American Red Cross during its “Wisconsin Strong – Storm Relief” radiothon on August 31 to aid victims impacted by historic flooding across Wisconsin. Sister station WKTI-FM assisted in the efforts. The money went to shelters, food and clean-up kits.

WCTI Covered Hurricane Florence Despite Flooded Building

Date Posted: 10/3/2018

Sinclair’s WCTI New Bern, N.C., showed creative dedication when their building flooded to continue providing news coverage of Hurricane Florence to their viewers. Without power, a building or studio, the station utilized Facebook to carry their coverage until the station got back on the air.

“We have a lot of young people here and I’m impressed by how well they’re taking it and how well they’re doing. They know they have a task,” said Sean Finn, WCTI’s creative services director.

Sinclair also partnered with The Salvation Army on the Stand Strong for the Carolinas Relief Fund and matched donations, totaling $100,000.

Broadcasters Step up During Hurricane Florence

Date Posted: 10/2/2018

Broadcasters were well prepared to provide wall-to-wall coverage of Hurricane Florence, which made landfall on the coast of North Carolina on September 14. The storm killed at least 23 people, with some areas receiving up to 30 inches of rain. Radio and television stations in the Carolinas ramped up coverage ahead of the storm, disseminating vital information around the clock.

Nearly one million more residents in the Charlotte, Greensboro and Raleigh areas of North Carolina tuned into local newscasts on broadcast TV stations the week Hurricane Florence approached the East Coast and made landfall in the Carolinas than the previous week, according to data from ratings measurement service Nielsen.

“These Nielsen ratings again highlight the critical ‘first informer’ role of local broadcasting during emergencies,” said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. “As we’ve seen time and again, communities across the country rely on their local radio and TV stations for timely and lifesaving information. We applaud broadcasters who were in the path of Hurricane Florence for their continuous efforts to inform listeners and viewers.”

Former FEMA administrator Craig Fugate tweeted: “Tracking #Florence? Keep a radio in your Disaster Kit. Why, you have cell phone right? Until cellular services goes out, happen to me during Hurricane #Irma. No power, no Wifi, no cellular data. Radio was my only source for news and updates.”

WISN-TV Raises $90K for Hurricane Florence Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

Hearst’s ABC affiliate WISN-TV Milwaukee raised $90,000 for hurricane relief efforts during a helpline held September 18 in partnership with the American Red Cross of Wisconsin. The money raised through this helpline will assist the Red Cross in providing shelter, food, supplies, and other forms of support.

“Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by Hurricane Florence. We’re all overcome with sadness to see the destruction that this has caused, yet deeply moved by the kindness displayed by our viewers,” said President and General Manager Jan Wade. “As the storms pass and the rebuilding begins, efforts like this helpline will empower Red Cross in their important mission.”

Local Stations Brace for Hurricane Florence

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

TV Technology detailed extensive preparations for Hurricane Florence’s from local stations at Morris Multimedia, Raycom, Sinclair and Community Broadcasters. Preparations included sandbagging station entry points, securing backup generators and antennas, and providing shelters for reporters. Read More.

“Our mission as local broadcasters is to be there for the duration for our communities,” Raycom Vice President of News Steve Ackerman said. “Standing on the beach in the middle of a Category 4 hurricane doesn’t necessarily provide anybody with useful information. But keeping our infrastructure in place and getting that mission critical information out does perform a real community service.”

At Capitol Broadcasting Company (CBC), preparations have been ongoing for more than a week, at both WILM in Wilmington and WRAL in Raleigh, N.C., says Peter Sockett, director of engineering and operations.

Testimonials From Local Residents Amid Florence

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

The Columbia Journalism Review highlighted the indispensable appeal of local weather reporters during the Hurricane Florence weather emergency, including several statements from local residents. Myrtle Beach resident Karen Goodwin evacuated with her eight-year-old granddaughter, who carried with her a WMBF kids’ hurricane tracker.

“We trust our local broadcasters because they’re a part of our community, they’re going through the storm, too,” said Goodwin. “They’re down-to-earth and tell it like it is.”

Ace & TJ Show Sets Up Hurricane Florence Relief Effort

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

Syndicated radio program “Ace & TJ” collected donations for Hurricane Florence relief efforts beginning September 17 through its “Radio Family Charity,” program. Ace & TJ’s show can be heard on WERO-FM Jacksonville, N.C., WHQC-FM Charlotte and WNOK-FM Columbia, S.C., through their app or on demand in Wilmington, N.C., Raleigh, Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charleston, S.C.

Sinclair Partners with Salvation Army to “Stand Strong for the Carolinas Relief Fund"

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

Sinclair Broadcast Group partnered with The Salvation Army on the Stand Strong for the Carolinas Relief Fund, which included a national Day of Giving on September 20. Sinclair matched $100,000. Sinclair provided viewers with continuous coverage on air and online of Hurricane Florence in multiple markets. After ABC affiliate WCTI New Bern, N.C., was forced to evacuate, they worked with ABC affiliate WPDE Myrtle Beach, S.C. to continue coverage. WPDE broadcast 54 hours of live, around-the-clock coverage.

“I want to thank New Bern’s WCTI team for doing an incredible job during this challenging time, showing a tireless effort to empower our viewers with continuous coverage and life-saving updates. As part of the Sinclair family, we are lucky to have access to a network of stations across the country that offer support in times of disaster,” said WCTI General Manager Matt Bowman.

iHeart Milwaukee Hosts Hurricane Relief Event

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

iHeartMedia Milwaukee partnered with Tribune’s Fox affiliate WITI-TV on a Hurricane Florence Disaster Relief Phone Bank on September 19 for the American Red Cross. “It’s great when multiple media outlets come together for the common good,” said iHeartMedia Market President Colleen Valkoun. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by Hurricane Florence and we’re happy to help support the mission of the American Red Cross.”

Cumulus in Charleston Prepares for Hurricane Florence

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

Cumulus Charleston, S.C. Market Manager Sherry Dollar spoke to All Access about their preparation, which began the week before and included strategies discussed at their annual “Crisis Team” meeting in June. This includes generators, extra fuel and redundant fiber and coaxial Internet backed up by LTE. The five-station cluster partnered with Sinclair’s ABC affiliate in Charleston to provide more coverage.

“Our responsibility as broadcasters is to keep the community informed,” Dollar said. “Being the lifeline for the community, the partnership extends community resources and ensures the necessary communication to get through the Hurricane and, just as important, post-event, to help get everyone back to where they need to be and community put back together.

Radio is personal. Radio is a friend. Radio has a way of prompting a feeling of being in a ’safe’ place. Radio reminds the community they are not alone – we are in the trenches with them. During a crisis that will almost ensure power outages Radio becomes even more important. Everyone needs information. No one wants to feel alone -- hearing that voice that you know so well and that you listen to daily has a calming effect. It’s like listening to a long-time friend that you trust.”

WBTV Raises $49,000 for Hurricane Florence Relief

Date Posted: 10/1/2018

Raycom media’s CBS affiliate WBTV partnered with the American Red Cross to amplify fundraising efforts to support families affected by Hurricane Florence in the Carolinas. Raising more than $49,000 in a single day telethon, the campaign is still bringing critical donations in.

Fox Donates $1 Million to Disaster Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 9/30/2018

21st Century Fox announced on August 22 it is donating $1 million to the American Red Cross and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, following the unprecedented natural disasters in 2017 and the deadly wildfires continuing to hit California. The funds support preparedness, relief, and recovery efforts for 2018. Fox will also raise awareness by airing related content during certain fall premieres.

Stations Break Major News During Duck Boat Disaster

Date Posted: 9/4/2018

Local broadcasters struck a delicate balance between breaking major news and remaining sensitive to a tragedy, as a duck boat sank in Branson, Mo., on July 19. The accident left 17 people dead, including 10 members of one family. RTDNA Executive Director Dan Shelley delved into how stations covered the tragedy and how station’s emergency plans aided decision making in this article.

Hearst’s KCRA and KQCA Raise $700K For Wildfire Victims

Date Posted: 8/1/2018

Heart’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV and MyNetworkTV affiliates Sacramento raised $700,000 for American Red Cross wildfire relief efforts in a day-long telethon held July 31. The deadly Carr Fire destroyed more than 1,000 Northern California homes and businesses. It is the ninth most destructive in California history.

WISC-TV Raises $160,000 Following Gas Leak

Date Posted: 7/27/2018

Morgan Murphy Media’s CBS affiliate WISC-TV Madison, Wis. raised $163,000 through an 18-hour telethon held July 18 for disaster relief efforts following a gas leak explosion. The July 10 explosion killed Sun Prairie Fire Department Capt. Cory Barr, injured others, displaced 58 people from their homes and affected 50 businesses, destroying five. Money was distributed to effected families and businesses as well as the Sun Prairie Emergency Food Pantry and local social services organization Sunshine Place.
“This is who we are,” said Morgan Murphy Media President and CEO Elizabeth Murphy Burns. “We are members of our communities and here to inform, entertain, but mostly to serve.”
“We were compelled to act, and the response was astonishing,” said Colin Benedict, vice president of news for Morgan Murphy Media and WISC news director. “So many people in our viewing area asked us what they could do to help, and we tried to serve as a connection to those in need.”

WPTV-TV Meteorologist Rides for Red Cross

Date Posted: 7/1/2018

Scripps’ NBC affiliate WPTV-TV West Palm Beach Chief Meteorologist Steve Weagle began his annual “Ride for the Red Cross” on June 4. For the 20th year, Weagle spent five days riding a bicycle across the entire market to mark the beginning of hurricane season and raise awareness of the Red Cross. He auctioned his bike after the ride, donating the money to local Red Cross chapters.

KSRO-AM Steps Up During Wildfire

Date Posted: 6/1/2018

Amaturo Sonoma Media Group’s KSRO-AM Santa Rosa played an integral role as first informers as wildfires ravished the community last October. Between midnight and 4 a.m., 43 people died and more than 10,000 homes and businesses were destroyed in Sonoma and Napa Counties. Early estimates had over 2,000 people missing. Every staff member in the cluster immediately joined KSRO’s four-person news team for commercial-free coverage across all five stations.

Cell towers melted and utilities crumbled, leaving residents with no electricity, TV or internet. Radio became the sole method of communication. KSRO was the community’s centerpiece for emergency information: FEMA, local fire teams, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s office, Red Cross and other emergency agencies set up remote facilities in the station and parking lot, as KSRO had continuous power via generator.

“All public service agencies KNEW that our airwaves were their quickest and best route to ‘get the word out’ [about] shelters, emergency services, fire-relief, missing persons contact center, etc.,” said KSRO President Michael O’Shea.

A feature length documentary film, “Urban Inferno, The Night Santa Rosa Burned,” was produced by local physician and documentarian Stephen Seager, who wanted to tell the story of that night. The film also chronicles how local radio played a life-saving role in that disaster.

Nexstar Stations Work Together to Cover Subtropical Storm Alberto

Date Posted: 6/1/2018

Nexstar’s FOX affiliate WZDX-TV Huntsville, Ala., sent their chief meteorologist, Maggie Dinizio, to their sister station, ABC affiliate WMBB-TV in Panama City, Fla., to assist in covering Subtropical storm Alberto. Dinizio helped with non-stop coverage to keep local viewers informed as Alberto came ashore in the Florida panhandle. While Dinizio was in Panama City, WZDX-TV meteorologist Jordan Dressman worked through his days off keeping Tennessee Valley viewers apprised of the possible impact Alberto might have as the storm headed north through the state.

KXDR-FM Helps Fill Sandbags Amid Floods

Date Posted: 5/24/2018

Cherry Creek Radio’s KXDR-FM Missoula, Mont., teamed up with Team Rubicon, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that utilizes the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams, to fill sand bags for residents of Missoula during a severe flood in early May. Additionally, KXDR-FM dedicated a part of their webpage to flood information, providing up-to-date evacuation orders, sandbag and shelter locations, road closures and emergency hotline information.

KWTV Provides Lifeline Coverage During Oklahoma Wildfires

Date Posted: 5/3/2018

Griffin Communication’s CBS affiliate KWTV Oklahoma City aired extensive coverage of deadly wildfires in April that burned close to 300,000 acres, destroying more than 100 homes and impacting thousands of families. “Our storm trackers and helicopter team were on the front lines, warning and helping residents while our weather and news teams provided countless hours of updates on air and online to assist with firefighting, evacuations and recovery,” said Vice President of Marketing Houston Hunt. “Through the power of television, we were able to tell stories and show video that explained just how horrible the situation was in Northwest Oklahoma with the rest of the state.”

KWTV produced and aired a telethon, “Healing the Heartland,” on April 24 that raised more than $160,000 to support the American Red Cross relief efforts. The telethon featured stories that showcased the fire’s impact and celebrated those who helped the community. KWTV utilized on air, online, social, radio and digital platforms to promote the fundraiser.

WGHP Raises Over $70K for Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 5/1/2018

Tribune’s Fox affiliate WGHP-TV High Point, N.C., raised $70,000 for tornado relief efforts in a telethon held April 18. The tornado on April 15 rocked Guilford and Rockingham and damaged or destroyed 1,000 homes and business. All money raised will be distributed by local Salvation Army chapters.

“We really appreciate what a great community citizen FOX8 is on an ongoing basis, but especially in this time of such great hurting in our community,” said Major Don Vick of the Salvation Army of Greensboro.

WFMY Telethons Raise $100K For Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 5/1/2018

TEGNA’s CBS affiliate WFMY-TV Greensboro, N.C., raised more than $100,000 for United Way tornado relief efforts with two telethons, held April 17 and 19. The EF-2 tornado that killed one person and destroyed homes touched down in the neighborhood of WFMY’s studios. In the days following the storm, WFMY continued to share stories of the storm’s impact and encourage donations of needed items.

“We’re humbled to be part of something bigger than us and all about our neighbors,” said General Manager Larry Audas.

KFVS Meteorologist Honored

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Date Posted: 3/1/2018

Raycom’s CBS affiliate KFVS-TV Cape Girardeau, Mo., Chief Meteorologist Grant Dade was honored on February 16 when the Missouri State Legislature adopted a special resolution honoring Dade for saving lives during a tornado on February 28, 2017. The EF4 tornado was more than a half mile wide and stayed on the ground for 50 miles, killing one person, destroying 40 homes and heavily damaging more than 100 more. Missouri State Representative Rick Francis presented Dade with a plaque at the site of homes that were destroyed. Grant met and spoke with some viewers. Comments include:

“…Your pinpoint accuracy of the devastating storm that hit Perry County saved lives. Families have told us your broadcast gave them the warning and time needed to seek shelter. Well done!” --Ken Baer, Perryville Mayor

“…the early warnings and predictions no doubt saved many lives! As a public servant, I greatly appreciate your dedication to saving lives and taking your profession serious!! Because of your excellent coverage my department was better able to protect our community follow the coverage.” --Chief James Humphreys, Jackson Police Department

“KFVS, you possibly saved my 15 year old son’s life.” ---Amy Hager, Perryville

“Our City Clerk has credited your team with saving the lives of her family members. Your coverage has been wonderful and you have helped us get the word out with everything from donations to volunteers.” --Brent Buerck, Perryville City Administrator

First Informers: Hurricane Harvey

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Date Posted: 3/1/2018

In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey struck the Gulf Coast, primarily the Houston area. As Harvey approached, radio and television broadcasters took to the airwaves to warn those in the storm’s path about the oncoming danger. During the storm, local broadcasters provided lifeline support as ’first informers,’ relaying emergency and disaster relief information. And after the skies cleared, radio and TV stations played a critical role in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of their hometown communities.

These feats of courage, dedication and generosity demonstrated by local radio and TV broadcasters are captured in this short film produced by Media Arts Professor Scott Hodgson and his students at the University of Oklahoma, and Chandra Clark, professor of Journalism and Creative Media, and her students at The University of Alabama.

First Informers: Hurricane Irma

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Date Posted: 3/1/2018

In September 2017, Hurricane Irma struck the southeastern United States. As Irma approached, radio and television broadcasters took to the airwaves to warn those in the storm’s path about the oncoming danger. During the storm, local broadcasters provided lifeline support as ’first informers,’ relaying emergency and disaster relief information. And after the skies cleared, radio and TV stations played a critical role in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of their hometown communities.

These feats of courage, dedication and generosity demonstrated by local radio and TV broadcasters are captured in this short film produced by Media Arts Professor Scott Hodgson and his students at the University of Oklahoma, and Chandra Clark, professor of Journalism and Creative Media at the University of Alabama.

Cumulus Radio Raises $500,000 for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 1/2/2018

Cumulus’ KFOG-FM, KGO-AM, KNBR-AM, KSAN-FM, KSFO-AM, and KTCT-AM San Francisco announced on January 2nd that they raised $500,000 for the Bay Area Fire Relief Fund, bringing much-needed relief to victims of the massive Northern California wildfires. The stations distributed $150,000 to the American Red Cross, Northern California Chapter; $150,000 to United Way Bay Area; and $200,000 to Redwood Empire Food Bank.

Broadcasters Cover California Wildfires

Date Posted: 12/6/2017

Wildfires devastated southern California in early December 2017, with fires spreading to about 31,000 acres in about nine hours. As the fires raged, local radio and television stations provided lifeline coverage of the event. “You could breathe that smoke coming through the air vents. You’d feel like if you were to cough you would be coughing ash,” Traffic Reporter Mark Kono of Tribune’s CW affiliate KTLA told The New York Times. “But if we can get the shot, we’ll do it.” The New York Times further described the harrowing experience of KTLA and Entercom’s KNX-AM reporters here.

NAB Delivers 10,000 Radios to Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

Date Posted: 11/6/2017

NAB’s Senior Manager of Public Service Suzie Raven recently traveled to Puerto Rico to help distribute 10,000 battery-operated radios to people in the hurricane-ravaged island and the Virgin Islands. Cellphone connections and Internet service are non-existent in many parts of Puerto Rico. Broadcast radio continues to connect people to critical information, weeks after Maria made landfall.

Donations from NAB, the National Alliance of State Broadcasters Associations (NASBA) and multiple U.S. radio companies covered the cost of the project. Logistical support was provided by Pat Roberts, head of the Florida Association of Broadcasters, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). More about the trip can be found in here.

Cox Media Group Supports Small Businesses After Irma

Date Posted: 10/21/2017

Cox Media Group (CMG) launched an initiative, “Cox Media Group Cares Tampa Bay” to help small businesses recover after Hurricane Irma. Many small businesses faced power outages, lost inventory, or closed for days. CMG stations are featuring local businesses each Saturday between October 21 and November 25 and providing free on-air, online and social media promotion throughout the week. The initiative will benefit 40 local small businesses with approximately $250,000 in promotional support.

“CMG understands local businesses are an important part of our communities,” said Keith Lawless, Vice President/General Manager for CMG Tampa. “The disruption from Hurricane Irma has greatly impacted these businesses. We are proud to help support them at a time when they need it most.”

KCRA Raises $900,000 for California Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 10/16/2017

Hearst’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV and MyNetworkTV affiliate KQCA-TV Sacramento raised more than $900,000 in support of the American Red Cross and its California wildfire relief efforts. Donations came in from thousands of callers and companies in a drive held October 16.

Cumulus Media San Francisco Raises $250,000 for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 10/13/2017

Cumulus Media San Francisco launched a text-to-donate wildfire relief fund benefiting Northern California on October 13. The six-station cluster, which includes KFOG-FM, KGO-AM, KNBR-AM, KSAN-FM, KSFO-AM and KNBR-AM, has raised over $250,000 with a goal of $500,000. In addition to the fund, the stations are holding collection events where listeners can donate gift cards and other needed supplies.

D.C. Radio Hosts Blood Drive for Vegas Victims

Date Posted: 10/11/2017

Cumulus Media’s WRQX-FM and WMAL-AM/FM Washington, D.C. and Inova Blood Donor Services hosted a “Vegas Victims’ Blood Drive” on October 11. “Distance doesn’t lessen the impact of what happened in Las Vegas,” said Program Director Rob Roberts. “This is our chance to help someone and it costs nothing but a little time. We’re proud to do our part.”

Lazer Broadcasting Raises $1 Million

Date Posted: 10/6/2017

Lazer Broadcasting’s listeners have donated close to $1 million for Mexico’s earthquake victims, relief for Sonoma County residents affected by the recent wildfires, and support for the hospitals of the Children’s Miracle Network. The company’s 9th annual Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon recently raised more than $750,000. “We are very grateful for all of our listeners’ and clients’ support in the Children’s Miracle Network,” CEO said Alfredo Plascencia. “And, with the unfortunate disasters this year, it really shows the unity of the Hispanic culture.”

Entercom Launhces Mexico Earthquake Relief Campaign

Date Posted: 10/6/2017

Entercom’s KRBQ-FM, KOIT-FM, KUFX-FM and KGMZ-FM San Francisco partnered with the Latino Community Foundation to raise money for relief efforts following the September 20 earthquakes in Mexico City. Entercom’s three-week campaign launched October 6 with a live broadcast. All four stations continued to raise funds online, with one hundred percent of proceeds going to local charities.

Beasley’s WBQT-FM Collects Items for Puerto Rico Relief

Date Posted: 10/1/2017

Beasley Media Group’s WBQT-FM Boston presented a free concert on October 1 featuring the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops, while collecting donations for Puerto Rico hurricane. During the event, four trucks were filled with items that included water, flashlights with batteries, first aid kits, baby formula, food, clothing and pet supplies.

Beasley Supports Las Vegas After Shooting

Date Posted: 10/1/2017

Beasley Media Group set up a GoFundMe page to provide financial support to the victims and families of the shooting at the Route 91Harvest Festival on October 1 in Las Vegas. During the shooting, 58 were killed and more than 500 injured. Beasley’s “Community of Caring” donated $5,000 and set the goal for the page at $1 million. KCYE-FM Las Vegas Morning Personality Mike West took this video at the event.

Broadcasters Raise $45 Million for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 9/29/2017

Television broadcasters have raised $45 million through on-air campaigns and direct donations for relief efforts supporting victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. This amount is based on publicly available fundraising totals, social media and information provided to NAB. In addition to fundraisers, broadcasters have collected food, bottles of water, clothing, hygiene products and other supplies. The estimate does not include fundraising totals for Hurricane Maria relief efforts, as many efforts are on-going.

The estimate includes $6 million from CBS owned-and-operated stations; $5.5 million from NBC; $4.4 million raised by Nexstar; $4.1 million from Hearst stations; $3.6 million from TEGNA, $2 million from Tribune. Millions more were raised by local radio stations, including $2.2 million from Cox-owned stations and $1 million from ICA radio.

"Local broadcasters served as ’first informers’ and saved countless lives as Harvey and Irma tore through Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and the Southeast," said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. "Now, our attention turns to the long recovery ahead. I’m so proud of the generosity and compassion shown by broadcasters who are helping rebuild and restore hurricane-ravaged communities."

WKAQ-FM Provides Lifeline Coverage During Hurricane Maria

Date Posted: 9/27/2017

NAB recently received Facebook message applauding Univision’s WKAQ-AM San Juan, P.R. for its lifesaving reporting and service to its community during Hurricane Maria. Jose M. Moret wrote, “Dear NAB, the island of Puerto Rico, my homeland, is currently surviving the horrific impact of hurricane Maria. As a Puertorrican residing in NJ, I feel powerless not knowing about my parents, siblings and extended family members. Through this difficult time, the live Facebook news streams from Jay Fonseca (@jayfonsecapr) and the WKAQ580 AM team are providing a truly significant contribution to the relief and coordination efforts in the island as well as distributing the latest news from the island to its population in and out of Puerto Rico. Please allow me via this note to send my public appreciation to the NAB and Jay Fonseca, an extraordinary broadcaster and humanitarian.”

Univision Helps Raise to $6.8 Million for Disaster Relief

Date Posted: 9/26/2017

Univision’s awareness campaign “Unidos por los Nuestros” raised $6.8 million to help those impacted by the recent natural disasters in Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Florida and Texas. Funds support efforts by the American Red Cross and other non-profit organizations. The two-day joint telecast of Liga MX soccer action across several networks raised $1.3 million out of the $6.8 million total.

Telemundo Raises $12.9 Million for Disaster Relief in Mexico, Puerto Rico, Texas, Florida

Date Posted: 9/24/2017

Telemundo has raised more than $12.9 million for American Red Cross relief efforts following natural disasters in Mexico, Puerto Rico, Texas, Florida and the Caribbean islands. Under the banner of “Todos Unidos” (All Together) the Telemundo Networks, plus Telemundo and NBC owned stations, raised $7.5 million through a telethon held September 24. The live broadcast produced from Miami, Mexico, New York, Puerto Rico, Houston and Los Angeles aired simultaneously across Telemundo stations. The group had already raised $5.5 million through multiple fundraising efforts following Hurricane Harvey. “Our stations are committed to helping communities have the news, information and resources they need to recover from the natural disasters that have affected so many, including our very own employees,” said Telemundo Station Group President Manuel Martinez.

Hurricane Telethon Raises $14 Million

Date Posted: 9/21/2017

The star-studded “Hand in Hand” telethon, held September 12 in New York, Los Angeles, Nashville and San Antonio, raised $14 million for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief through organizations such as the United Way and Save the Children. ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and Univision carried the program, which was also streamed online. Cumulus/Westwood One broadcast a full simulcast of the audio. Network morning personalities Matt Lauer, Norah O’Donnell and Michael Strahan stood before a satellite image of Irma to describe the devastation. An additional $30 million was donated during the hours that followed, bringing the total to $55 million.

Participating celebrities included Stevie Wonder, Usher, Blake Shelton, Justin Bieber, George Clooney, Barbra Streisand, Al Pacino, Dave Matthews, George Strait, Robert Earl Keen, Chris Stapleton, Miranda Lambert and Lyle Lovett. Darius Rucker, Brad Paisley, Demi Lovato and Cece Winans sang the Beatles’ "With a Little Help From My Friends." Jay Leno, Beyoncé, Will Smith and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson sent in taped pleas for support during the event.

WRAL-TV Collects 40,000 Pounds of Food

Date Posted: 9/20/2017

Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WRAL-TV Raleigh and the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina collected 42,000 pounds of food, cleaning and hygiene supplies on September 20 to support hurricane relief efforts at the Feeding Northeast Florida Food Bank in Jacksonville. “Helping people in need is in the DNA of Capitol Broadcasting,” said Vice President and General Manager Steven D. Hammel.

Stations Host Supply Drives and Promote Donations

Date Posted: 9/20/2017

The United Media of Indianapolis Network held a “Hoosiers Helping Houston” supply drive from September 7 – 9. The group includes Radio One Indianapolis, Entercom, Cumulus, Emmis, iHeartMedia, WFYI Public Media, Tribune Broadcasting, ABC, NBC, Gannett, Sarkes Tarzian, Lesea Broadcasting Network, Nextstar, Continental Broadcast Group, and The Indianapolis Business Journal.

Beasley Media Group’s six Charlotte stations - WSOC-FM, WNKS-FM, WKQC-FM, WPEG-FM, WBAV-FM, WBCN-FM - broadcast live on September 6 at a local Circle K to collect supplies for Hurricane Harvey relief. Supplies collected during "Truckloads for Texas" included bottled water, batteries, first aid supplies, formula, mosquito repellent, towels and toiletries.

Cox-owned Atlanta stations - WSB-AM/FM, WSRV-FM, WALR-FM, ABC affiliate WSB-TV - and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution filled 10 semi-trucks with 500,000 of bottles of water during the “Convoy of Care” initiative.

Over 30 Chicago stations simultaneously aired a :60 second spot in English and Spanish to promote the American Red Cross on August 30 at 4:29 p.m. “The Radio Broadcasters of Chicagoland are proud to unite as a group to help the people of Houston impacted by the devastating floods,” said Matt Scarano of the Illinois Broadcasters Association.

The Alabama Broadcasters Association (ABA) promoted a united effort for stations across the state to encourage donations on September 1. The ABA sent radio and television stations a list of suggested organizations to promote to their audience, along with a graphic for websites and for television stations to use on air.

Stations Respond Nationwide to Hurricane Harvey

Date Posted: 9/20/2017

Hurricane Harvey landed on the southeast coast of Texas on August 26, dumping more than 50 inches of rain in four days. Harvey dropped 19 trillion gallons of water, killing dozens and sending 30,000 people to emergency shelters. Radio and television stations across the country provided life-saving wall-to-wall emergency information and storm updates, with reporters risking their own safety to provide coverage. Broadcasters provided wall-to-wall coverage, with staff staying at flooded stations, sleeping in hotels and overcoming technical difficulties to stay on air and keep listeners informed. The FCC reported that as of mid-day on August 27, no TV station had been knocked off the air. Broadcasters also went to great lengths to raise millions of dollars for hurricane relief efforts.

"NAB salutes Texas and Gulf Coast broadcasters in the path of Hurricane Harvey who are devoting enormous resources to keeping people safe this weekend,” said NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. ”Local radio and TV stations play a unique role as first informers during emergency weather situations."

“Broadcasters and other news outlets have also played a critical role in conveying emergency information, and in some cases, even coordinating live, on-air rescues,” said FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai. “Everyone who is pitching in deserves our gratitude and support. We’re all in this together.”

In an interview with TEGNA’s CBS affiliate KHOU-TV Houston, Vice President Mike Pence said, “Well, first, let me thank you, and let me thank this station, and all the great local media that has been working, I know, around the clock, to get real time information to those that are struggling in the aftermath of landfall for Hurricane Harvey and now dealing with the historic flooding.”

“Radio is the ultimate connector,” Sarah Frazier of CBS Radio Houston told Radio Ink. “We’re connecting people to information and we’re connecting people to the relief efforts and, most importantly, to each other.”

Less than a week later, Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc on the Carribean Islands before hitting Florida’s west coast. The storm battered Fort Myers and Tampa, and also affected Miami and the Florida Keys. Hurricane Irma’s two landfalls on September 10 triggered evacuation orders for 5.6 million people, left more than 5.7 million people without power and caused flooding, plus scores of downed trees and power lines. Florida broadcasters took extensive precautions, including securing reserves of fuel and food, and provided wall-to-wall-coverage.

TEGNA Hosts Supply Drive for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 9/14/2017

TEGNA announced on September 14 an expansive hurricane relief initiative to support those in need of assistance following Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Hurricane Irma in Florida. Between September 15 – 30, 13 TEGNA stations across the U.S. are organizing supply collection events in their communities.

Beasley’s WYUU-FM Hosts Hurricane Maria

Date Posted: 9/13/2017

Beasley Media Group’s WYUU-FM Tampa partnered with Walmart for a Hurricane Relief Drive. The drive, held September 24 – 25, raised money to support Hurricane Maria relief efforts. CaringForPuertoRico.org provided cargo planes to deliver supplies directly to Puerto Rico.

WIS-TV Raises $40,000 for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 9/13/2017

Raycom’s NBC affiliate WIS-TV Columbia, S.C., raised $40,000 for the American Red Cross in a telethon held September 13 in partnership with Alpha Radio.

Detroit’s WDIV Raises $430,000 For Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 9/12/2017

Graham Media Group’s WDIV-TV Detroit raised almost $430,000 in a telethon on September 12 to benefit the American Red Cross relief efforts for Texas and Florida. “Television has the power to show in vivid images just how destructive a hurricane can be,” said General Manager Marla Drut.

Montana Television Network Raises Over $450,000 for Wildfire Relief Fund

Date Posted: 9/12/2017

Montana Television Network (MTN) stations across the state raised $450,838 to benefit the Montana Wildfire Relief Fund, launched September 12. The total includes an initial $50,000 in matching funds from the MTN and its parent company Cordillera Communications. MTN stations include KTVQ Billings, KBZK Bozeman, KXLF Butte, KRTV Great Falls, KBGF Great Falls, KTVH Helena, KXLH Helena, KAJ Kalispell and KPAX Missoula.

Hubbard Station Collects Diapers for Hurricane Victims

Date Posted: 9/11/2017

Hubbard’s KTMY-FM Minneapolis donated 215,000 diapers, blankets, baby clothes, and cash for the people affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The drive, held September 11 – 12, filled a 26-foot truck for the Texas Diaper Bank in San Antonio and the Miami Diaper Bank.

Radio Stations Support Irma Relief

Date Posted: 9/10/2017

Radio stations across the country supported Hurricane Irma and Harvey relief efforts. iHeartMedia’s KODA-FM Houston morning host Dana Tyson hosted displaced families in her home. Cox Media Group, iHeartMedia San Diego and Spanish Broadcasting System all collected supplies. Beasley’s WRBQ-FM Tampa boosted morale by sending an ice cream truck with supplies and treats. Fundraisers include Entercom’s "Neighbors 4 Neighbors," Beasley’s "Community Of Caring." The "iHeartRadio Presents: Support for Victims of the Hurricanes" aired on stations in 150 markets, featured interviews with flood victims and first responders, and encouraged listeners to donate to the American Red Cross.

Television Coverage of Hurricane Irma

Date Posted: 9/10/2017

Television stations providing extensive coverage include Raycom’s Fox affiliate WFLX-TV West Palm Beach and ABC affiliate WTVM-TV Columbus, Ga. WTVM encouraged viewers to tune in onair, online and on mobile for coverage, or to listen to the simulcast on iHeartMedia’s six stations in the market: WHAL-FM, WDAK-AM, WBFA-FM, WAGH-FM, WVRK-FM and WSTH-FM.

Other stations include Nexstar’s NBC affiliate WFLA-TV and MyNetworkTV affiliate WTTA-TV Tampa, NBC affiliate WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga., NBC affiliate WCBD-TV Charleston, CBS affiliate WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C., and CBS affiliate WSPA-TV and CW affiliate WYCW-TV Greenville, S.C. Sinclair stations include CBS affiliate WPEC-TV West Palm Beach, Fox affiliate WTGS-TV Savannah, Ga., MyNetworkTV affiliate WCIV Charleston, and ABC affiliate WPDE and CW affiliate WWMB Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“This is who we are,” Blake Russell, senior vice president of station operations at Nexstar, told TVTechnology. “We are supposed to be the voice of local communities. Like emergency responders we are running into the danger. We have to stay in the mix.”

Radio Coverage of Hurricane Irma

Date Posted: 9/10/2017

Beasley Media Group’s WRBQ-FM, WQYK-FM, WPBB-FM, WYUU-FM and WHFS-AM Tampa provided wall-to-wall coverage, including live cut-ins from Scripps’ ABC affiliate WFTS-TV. WYUU partnered with Telemundo’s WRMD-TV to air critical news in Spanish. Beasley’s WXKB-FM, WRXK-FM, WJPT-FM, WRXK-FM, WWCN-FM and WJBX-AM Fort Myers began providing hourly updates days before Irma landed. Coverage increased to every 20 minutes in the 10 hours before Irma landed, and included information on landfall, public shelters, preparedness and advisories from the National Weather Service and Emergency Management. Fort Myers stations partnered with Montclair Communications’ ABC affiliate WZVN-TV and Waterman Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WBBH-TV.

CBS Radio’s Miami stations, WKIS-FM, WPOW-FM and WQAM-AM, aired live coverage from CBS owned-and-operated WFOR-TV. A CBS spokesperson told Inside Radio that the radio group helped secure an exclusive interview with Vice President Mike Pence.

Entercom’s four Miami stations, including WLYF-FM, Spanish Broadcasting Systems in Miami and Key West, and Cox Media Group’s Florida stations provided wall-to-wall coverage. WLYF Miami morning host Julie Guy inspired a listener to hand out gift cards at an apartment complex without power and food. iHeartMedia’s nationally-syndicated morning hosts Kane and Elvis Duran pre-empted regular programs. Duran joined WHYI-FM hosts in the Miami studio for the hurricane.

WYUU-FM Host Stays On Air for 19 Hours

Date Posted: 9/10/2017

Beasley’s WYUU-FM Tampa midday host Nio Fernandez recognized a need for information in Spanish, so he broadcast in the Spanish language for 19 straight hours. Hundreds of listeners called in to talk about their experiences, such as seeing trees fall on cars, or to share information about stores that had water and supplies still in stock. Listeners who had been evacuated to neighboring states followed Beasley stations using mobile apps. Fernandez said callers told him, “If it wasn’t for you, we’d have no idea what’s going on there.”

Fort Myers Stations Provide Refuge

Date Posted: 9/10/2017

Montclair Communications’ ABC affiliate WZVN-TV Naples, Fla., and Waterman Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WBBH-TV Fort Myers, Fla., provided 65 hours of continuous coverage, with the combined newsroom staffs of 110 people, including eight meteorologists, working 12 hours on and 12 hours off. They became a refuge for staff members’ families and pets, serving hundreds of meals to the 236 people, 26 dogs, plus cats, reptiles and a Macaw. The guests, who ranged in age from 87 years old to two weeks, slept in mechanical rooms, the conference room and hallways. The eye of the hurricane passed directly over both the studios and their transmitter site, breaking a water main and crashing a tree onto a parked car. Both stations suffered minor service outages, but simulcasting ensured uninterrupted local coverage. The stations’ over-the-air signals served as a lifeline, as millions lost cable and satellite TV service. Station websites received nearly three million page views per day.

Cox Media Group Keeps Listeners Safe

Date Posted: 9/6/2017

Cox Media Group’s (CMG) stations in Houston, Miami, Tampa, Orlando and Jacksonville provided extensive original programming as Hurricane Harvey and Irma ravished Houston and parts of Florida. The stations aired critical updates on air and engaged listeners via social media. CMG stations also held supply drives, delivered ice in the sweltering heat, set up mobile charging stations and provided a variety of relief efforts. One listener tuned in to the radio at 2:23 a.m. after receiving a tornado alert on her phone. The roof blew off their house, but thanks the station for providing information that kept the family safe. “You guys saved our bacon,” said Orlando Segura & Annie Mimlitz, Fernandina Beach. Click here for more.

Sinclair Broadcast Group Raises $1.4 Million for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 9/1/2017

Sinclair Broadcast Group and its 173 television stations partnered with the Salvation Army to raise money for relief efforts. Sinclair stations launched a “Standing Strong for Texas” relief effort on September 1, raising $1.4 million. “In a time of crisis, the most important role of local television news is the communication of critical information to an audience in real time,” said President and CEO Chris Ripley. “We recognize how much people rely on their local television stations and that coverage doesn’t end once the storm is over. We are committed to helping these communities rebuild and to living our mission to alert, protect and empower our viewers.”

KRIS-TV and Cordillera Launch Relief Effort

Date Posted: 8/31/2017

Cordillera Communications’ NBC affiliate KRIS-TV Corpus Christi matched the first $50,000 raised in the “Give to The Gulf” drive, launched on August 31 for the Coastal Bend Disaster Recovery Group and the American Red Cross of Coastal Bend. The company raised $338,000. KRIS-TV received assistance from Cordillera’s NBC affiliate KVOA-TV Tucson, ABC affiliate KATC-TV Lafayette, La., NBC affiliate WLEX-TV Lexington, Ky., NBC affiliate KOAA Colorado Springs, NBC affiliate KSBY San Luis Obispo, and the company’s Montana Television Network stations. “At KRIS Communications, we care about our communities and strive to serve them every way we can, so we want to help our neighbors recover from this massive disaster,” said President and General Manager Greg McAlister.

WCVB Collects $500,000 for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 8/30/2017

Hearst’s ABC affiliate WCVB-TV Boston raised more than $500,000 in the “Relief Fund 5: Help for Houston” telethon held August 30 for the American Red Cross of Massachusetts. “When our community rallies to support a worthy cause, the results are always amazing,” said WCVB President and General Manager Bill Fine. “WCVB has always been dedicated to helping those in need, and everyone here at Channel 5 is so proud to have been a part of this telethon to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey.”

KPRC and Telemundo Houston Raise $4.2 Million

Date Posted: 8/30/2017

Graham Media Group’s NBC affiliate KPRC-TV and Telemundo Houston raised more than $4.2 million in a fundraiser held August 30-31 for the American Red Cross. Of this total, over $1 million came from individuals calling in pledges and nearly $270,000 came directly from Click2houston.com. Corporations pledged the rest. In addition, a Walmart representative visited the studio to present the Red Cross with $10 million.

Bobby Bones Show Raises $150,000 for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 8/28/2017

The Bobby Bones Show raised over $150,000 for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts through the sale of #PimpinJoy apparel and more than $50,000 for St. Jude’s during its fourth annual "Joy Week," which began August 28.

Raycom Stations Host Successful Fundraisers

Date Posted: 8/28/2017

Several Raycom stations held successful telethons for local Red Cross chapters. NBC affiliate WAVE-TV Louisville raised a total of $186,000 for hurricane relief through a variety of efforts, including on-air promotions, a web banner, PSAs and a telethon. Fox affiliate WXIX-TV Cincinnati raised $110,000 on August 28-29. CBS affiliate WCSC-TV Charleston raised $100,000 on August 31. NBC affiliate KCBD-TV Lubbock, Tx., raised $60,000 in the #WestTexasCares telethon. CBS affiliate KSLA-TV Shreveport, La., collected six truckloads of cleaning supplies and $17,000 on September 6. The Warrior Network, a group of airmen from Barksdale Air Force Base, joined the effort. CBS affiliate KOLD-TV Tucson raised $22,000 on August 28.

WBAL-TV’s “Telethon for Texas” Raises $484,000

Date Posted: 8/28/2017

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WBAL-TV Baltimore raised $484,000 in a telethon, held August 28-31, to raise money for American Red Cross relief efforts. “The results of our telethon have been overwhelming. WBAL-TV has been pleased to offer our viewers an outlet to help in the relief efforts aimed at Texas and the Gulf Coast,” said WBAL President and General Manager Dan Joerres

Quincy Stations Fundraise for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 8/28/2017

Quincy Media’s NBC affiliates KTIV-TV Sioux City, IA and KXLT-TV Rochester, Minn. raised over $150,000 in telethons for the American Red Cross. NBC affiliates WREX-TV Rockford, Ill., KWWL Waterloo, IA and stations in Peoria, Ill. partnered with the Salvation Army for on-going phone-a-thons to support relief efforts. Several Quincy stations worked with local grocers to drive Red Cross donations. ABC affiliate WKOW-TV Madison, Wis. raised $120,000 in a telethon for the American Red Cross.

“At every turn, multiple times in every newscast, live on the street, at every promotional avail, Quincy Media is leading literally millions to give what they can, and do what they can, for our neighbors in Texas who remain so desperately in need,” said Quincy Media CEO Ralph Oakley.

Meredith Stations Raise Over $1 Million

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

Meredith’s CBS affiliate KPHO-TV and Meredith-owned KTVK-TV Phoenix raised $1 million in a donation drive for the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.

Meredith’s CBS affiliate WFSB-TV Hartford, Conn., raised $53,000. The company’s CBS affiliate KMOV-TV St. Louis raised more than $100,000 in its fundraising efforts.

TEGNA Raises $2 Million for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

TEGNA raised $2 million in the first four days of its “Texas Cares” campaign for the American Red Cross Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. The TEGNA Foundation donated $100,000. All 46 stations participated. “Our stations in Texas are providing important, life-saving information and aid during this catastrophic storm,” said President and CEO Dave Lougee. “I am incredibly proud of the work our stations are doing to keep their communities informed and safe while providing help and relief to those who need it most.”

Tribune Raises $400,000 for Hurricane Relief

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

The Tribune Media Company Charitable Foundation donated $100,000 to the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund, administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation. Tribune stations collectively raised nearly $400,000 through grassroots fundraising in local markets, with many stations hosting phone banks and donation drives.

TEGNA’s CBS affiliate KHOU-TV Houston

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

TEGNA’s CBS affiliate KHOU-TV Houston reporter Brandi Smith stayed onair August 26 after the station was evacuated due to flooding. KHOU set up a makeshift studio on the second floor and continued to broadcast live. Smith and photographer Mario Sandoval remained in the field, transmitting live feeds on their own for about half an hour. Smith and Sandoval also alerted authorities to a trapped semi-truck driver, leading to his rescue. Sister station NBC affiliate KUSA-TV Denver quickly sent reporters to help. “Nothing is more valuable than your life and the lives of your family members, those you love, your friends,” Smith said. “We are doing the things we tell you not to do. We do it so that we can show you how bad the conditions are so you do not attempt them.”

Sinclair Covers Hurricane

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

“Our local newsrooms are equipped to respond for our viewers at a moment’s notice, providing images, sounds and most importantly emergency information to bring the story to our viewers, to help keep them aware and safe,” said Sinclair Vice President of News Scott Livingston. Sinclair dispatched crews from Amarillo, El Paso, Harlingen, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Pensacola, Mobile, Birmingham, Little Rock, West Palm Beach and Las Vegas.

ABC-owned KTRK-TV Reporter Helps Deliver Baby

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

ABC-owned KTRK-TV reporter Chauncy Glover assisted a woman in delivering her baby and transported her to Texas Women’s Hospital. KTRK reporter Steven Romo shared his emotional response after reporting live about a 33-year-old mother of two, found dead on a fence.

Radio’s Wall-to-Wall Coverage of Hurricane Harvey

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

All Access provided details on wall-to-wall coverage from Houston radio including Cox Media Group’s KGLK-FM, KKBQ-FM, and KTHT-FM; Cumulus’ KBRE-FM; and CBS Radio’s KILT-FM, KHMX-FM and KILT-AM/AM. Univision’s KLTN-FM, KOVE-FM, KAMA-FM and KQBU-FM covered the storm with a simulcast coverage from sister station KXLN-TV. Other radio stations that provided extensive coverage include:

Liberman Broadcasting‘s KJOJ-FM Freeport, Tex. simulcast from KTJM-FM Port Arthur, Tex.
Malkan Interactive‘s KEYS-AM, KZFM-FM and KKBA-FM Corpus Christi
American Family Radio’s KKWV-FM Aransas Pass and KAYK-FM Victoria
Urban One stations, including KMJQ-FM and KBXX-FM Houston
Westwood One News’ Dallas correspondent Alan Scaia did 33 custom live reports for affiliates in Texas and around the country

“In times like these we see the continued importance of radio being live and local to service the needs of listeners,” said Radio One Senior Vice President, Programming Jay Stevens.

Univison Provides Hurricane Coverage, Relief

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

The Univision Network and Univision Houston broadcast critical storm news around-the-clock and distributed live reports across radio, digital and social properties. They partnered with the Texas Diaper Bank, which provides diapers and wipes to babies, the elderly and disabled, and Catholic Charities, which supports direct assistance, home repair and health care services. Radio hosts deployed a caravan of donations from around the country.

iHeartMedia Provides Wall-to-wall Hurricane Coverage

Date Posted: 8/26/2017

iHeartMedia’s KTRH-AM Houston was “one of those stations you simply cannot turn off if you want to know exactly what’s going on in that area and how the local residents are feeling,” wrote Radio Ink. Corpus Christi stations KKTX-AM and KUNO-AM provided wall-to-wall coverage, with KSAB-FM and KMXR-FM, plus WKNN-FM Biloxi, Miss., broadcasting in English and Spanish. All 850 iHeartRadio station websites featured a call to action encouraging donations to the American Red Cross. Austin and San Antonio stations sent a semi-truck full of ice, water and fuel to Houston.

iHeartMedia Wisconsin Helps Flood Victims

Date Posted: 7/14/2017

iHeartMedia’s WISN-AM, WMIL-FM, WRIT-FM, WOKY-FM, WRNW-FM and WKKV-FM Milwaukee collected enough water on July 14 to fill five large semi-trucks for flood victims. Recent flash floods contaminated water wells, leaving residents without drinking water and electricity. “The iHeartMedia Milwaukee team and our listeners are committed to the people in the Milwaukee community. They saw their neighbors in need and jumped to action in a matter of hours,” said iHeartMedia Milwaukee Operations Manager Kerry Wolfe.

WCZY Radio Provides Critical Flood Coverage

Date Posted: 7/3/2017

Latitude Media’s WCZY-FM Mt. Pleasant, Mich., provided critical coverage as eight inches of rain flooded the area June 23 – 25, causing over $100 million in damage. WCZY provided information on the 130 roads that closed due as pavement crumbled beneath the water, in addition to broadcasting updates from the head of the emergency management team. On June 26, WCZY collected donations for the local American Red Cross chapter to assist people staying at a temporary shelter. “Although our staff is small, they really shined big for our community during this unprecedented crisis,” said Owner Bob Peters. “This is why local radio is so important to the communities we serve and why my wife and I are so proud to be local broadcasters.”

Eau Claire, Wis., Stations Provide Critical Tornado Coverage

Date Posted: 5/18/2017

Local television stations in Eau Claire, Wis., provided critical coverage during a May 13 tornado that killed one person, injured others and caused millions of dollars in damage. A trailer park was destroyed, leaving dozens without homes. Gray Television’s WEAU-TV Creative Service Director Andrew Felix offered TVNewsCheck an account of WEAU’s live warnings, three hours of nonstop coverage and promotions for a fundraiser held in the aftermath. One viewer later said, “I was watching you guys [at WEAU] faithfully there, and you kept saying to take cover, so I did.”

Quincy Media’s ABC affiliate WQOW-TV also provided continuous live coverage of the tornado onair and via social media. They reported live from the destroyed trailer park, aired a video of the tornado submitted by a viewer and produced a 30-minute prime time special after the storm. “We were pretty proud of it. We’re a small station, with a small staff,” News Director Dan Schillinger told TVNewsCheck. “But our team rose to the challenge of covering a disaster and performed like big-market pros.”

KAIT Provides Continuous Coverage of Storms and Flooding

Date Posted: 5/1/2017

Raycom Media’s KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark. provided in-depth coverage of severe storms and subsequent flooding that hit the area in early May. The station continued its weather coverage late into the evening, logging peak viewership at 1:00 a.m. A station representative commented “Hopefully we will not experience any severe storms in the future, but if we do, KAIT will be here for you. It’s the most important work we do."

Texas Stations Raise Over $200,000 for Victims of Severe Weather

Date Posted: 4/30/2017

Alpha Media East Texas partnered with TEGNA’s KYTX-TV and the “Tyler Morning Telegraph” to raise $211,660 for victims of severe storms that ravaged the area in late April. The “Texas Cares” initiative ensured every dollar collected went directly to the local Salvation Army. Alpha Media East Texas Market Manager Cary Camp commented, “We would like to thank all of our listeners who made this disaster relief fund drive a success. Helping those in need in our community is what radio is all about.”

WWBT-TV Honored by American Red Cross

Date Posted: 4/20/2017

Raycom Media’s NBC affiliate WWBT-TV Richmond, Va. was honored with the American Red Cross’s Good Neighbor Award on April 20. The station partners with the aid organization whenever emergencies strike the state. Also, American Red Cross employees often staff the station’s call center, making it possible for viewers to make donations. "It was humbling to meet and hear the stories of so many wonderful volunteers and people who truly care about our community. It was an honor to accept on the behalf of NBC12," said WWBT Marketing Director Brandon Seier.

KFVS Provides Life-Saving Tornado Coverage

Date Posted: 4/4/2017

Raycom’s CBS affiliate KFVS-TV Cape Girardeau, MO provided wall-to-wall coverage of a tornado that landed on February 28 and provided support in the aftermath. Damage occurred in the Missouri Bootheel and in Southern Illinois, with the worst damage occurring in Perryville, MO. Twelve people were injured. Approximately 40 homes were completely destroyed and more than 100 more were heavily damaged.

The next morning, KFVS began airing PSAs featuring our meteorologists on-location to promote Red Cross donations. KFVS also promoted the Heartland Cares Food Drive on March 3 - 5. More than six tons of food filled 25 pallets for the Southeast Missouri Foodbank and Salvation Army in Southern Illinois. “The immediate response was overwhelming, that our detailed and accurate coverage was the main reason there were no more injuries or deaths,” said Director of Marketing Paul Keener.

“…Your pinpoint accuracy of the devastating storm that hit Perry County saved lives. Families have told us your broadcast gave them the warning and time needed to seek shelter. Well done!”

--Ken Baer, Perryville Mayor

“I would like to give a huge shout out to KFVS12…Grant Dade and Brian McCormick did an outstanding job for many hours. Grant Dade was superb and the early warnings and predictions no doubt saved many lives! Thank you for your care, concern, and passion. As a public servant myself…I greatly appreciate your dedication to saving lives and taking your profession very serious!! Because of your excellent coverage my department and I were better able to protect our community, follow the coverage, and be ready for an immediate response. Kudos!"

--Chief James Humphreys, Jackson Police Department

“KFVS, you possibly saved my 15 year old son’s life. He received your weather alerts on his phone which prompted him to turn on KFVS weather. After seeing the tornado tracking, he sought shelter in a neighbor’s basement. Just as he reached their storm shelter, the tornado hit. Here is the ’after" picture of his dad’s home that he was in just minutes before the tornado blew through Perryville. Thank you KFVS!!!"

--Amy Hager, Perryville

Radio Serves Kansas During Wildfire

Date Posted: 3/31/2017

Ad Astra Per Aspera Broadcasting’s KSKU-FM, KXKU-FM, KNZS-FM and KWHK-FM Hutchinson, KS served its community as two large wildfires burned five thousand acres in two counties over nine days, beginning March 4. The fires caused 10,000 residents to evacuate, destroyed 11 homes, significantly damaged many more and burned nearly all vegetation in a state park. Ad Astra Radio’s continuous coverage included several live updates as firefighters stopped the flames from jumping a major highway. This would have threatened many more homes and an emergency shelter. In addition to regularly scheduled local news, the stations covered multiple press briefings live and provided hourly updates on the fire. They also promoted fundraising efforts coordinated by the United Way of Reno County and Hutchinson Community Foundation and two local school districts. The stations provided this crucial emergency information with only four people.

Radio and Television Serve Atlanta During Wildfires

Date Posted: 3/31/2017

Atlanta broadcasters, including Cox Media’s ABC affiliate WSB-TV, TEGNA’s NBC affiliate WXIA-TV, Meredith’s CBS affiliate WGCL-TV, Fox-owned WAGA-TV, Cox Media’s WSB-AM/FM, provided crucial coverage of a rush hour wildfire on March 30. The rush-hour fire caused a portion of one of the busiest sections of I-85 to collapse.

Georgia Broadcasters Recognized for Work During Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 2/13/2017

Georgia broadcasters, specifically those located near the coast, were personally recognized by Governor Nathan Deal, the Georgia House of Representatives and Senate for the critical role local stations played during Hurricane Matthew last fall. The recognition took place at a special event on January 25. “This recognition of broadcasters in Georgia is a great testimony to the role local broadcasters play in their community,” said a Georgia Association of Broadcasters spokesperson in a statement.

Raycom Stations Raise $587,000 for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 2/13/2017

Raycom’s NBC affiliates WALB-TV Albany, GA and WDAM-TV Hattiesburg, Miss. raised more than $585,000 for tornado relief. The EF-2 and EF-3 tornadoes that landed January 21 – 22 killed 16 people and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. WALB-TV and the American Red Cross raised $202,000 through the “Rise Up for Recovery – Give for South Georgia Tornado Relief” telethon, held February 2. WDAM-TV and the Greater Pinebelt Community Foundation raised $385,000 during the “Pine Belt Strong” telethon on February 1. NBC affiliate WLBT-TV Jackson, Miss.; ABC affiliate WLOX-TV Biloxi, Miss. and NBC affiliate WMC-TV Memphis joined the effort. “When our communities are in need, Raycom Media stations respond,” said Raycom Media President and CEO Pat LaPlatney. “Thanks to our amazing viewers and local partners, the people of Albany and Hattiesburg will rebuild, and WALB and WDAM will continue to serve those communities throughout the recovery.”

WIVK-FM Raises $815,000 for Smokey Mountain Wildfires

Date Posted: 1/11/2017

Cumulus Media’s WIVK-FM Knoxville raised $815,000 on December 5, in the 18-hour on-air and online #SmokyMtnStrong Radiothon benefiting victims of the Gatlinburg wildfires. All funds stayed in East Tennessee to support areas affected by the fires.

WALB Provides Critical Tornado Updates

Date Posted: 1/2/2017

Raycom’s NBC affiliate WALB-TV Albany, Ga. provided critical emergency information as eight tornados and two severe wind events hit seven South Georgia counties on January 2. The station also raised $187,000 for relief efforts in the "Rise Up for Recovery – Give for South Georgia Tornado Relief" telethon, held January 25. Winds reached 85 miles per hour, killing four people and felling at least 25,000 trees and 1,000 electric poles. Before the tornadoes hit, WALB’s "First Alert Weather Day" promos urged viewers to test generators, review emergency plans with their families and stock up on food, water and batteries. WALB staffers worked plenty of overtime, but still wanted to do more. Two shifts of volunteers spent the day helping clean yards, then returned to the station to complete their nightly news assignments.

About 38,000 people were without power and turned to WALB digital reports for days. WALB had 232,080 total video views the week of January 2, compared to 66,953 the week before. Many viewers thanked WALB for providing alerts in time for them to get into their safe room. WALB also received hundreds of phone calls seeking information. Some said they had trouble reaching city officials, but knew they could connect with newsroom staff. Examples of the storm coverage include these photos and this video .

WRAL-TV Delivers for Families After Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/27/2016

Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WRAL-TV Raleigh partnered with GoTriangle, the United Way and RDU International buses to deliver three buses and two vans filled with food and supplies on October 27 to families impacted by Hurricane Matthew in Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson and Johnston Counties. "We want to sincerely thank our amazing partners and generous community for your tremendous outpouring of support," said GoTriangle General Manager Jeff Mann. "Because of you there are many families in eastern North Carolina who will have food and other critical supplies immediately."

Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/24/2016

Hurricane Matthew swept through the southeast United States October 6-8 with winds topping 100 mph, affecting more than 20 million Americans and causing billions of dollars’ worth of damage. Two million residents of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina lost power and thousands were trapped in homes and cars. Local broadcast television and radio stations provided lifeline coverage during and after the storm, tracking Matthew’s path and providing information on outages, closures and shelters.

Graham Media Group’s WJXT Jacksonville, Fla. provides a great example of how local stations prepared viewers and listeners, issuing for residents in evacuation zones to leave. “We are committed to providing our viewers with information to keep them safe,” said WJXT’s Tracy Gaffney. KLOVE radio provided a dedicated feed to stations in dozens of towns and provided newscasts in Spanish.

Broadcasters in the Southeast received praise from listeners and viewers for their coverage of Hurricane Matthew. These e-mails were forwarded to Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH-TV in Orlando. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal publicly thanked a Savannah broadcaster for their around the clock, informative updates. Florida Governor Rick Scott also commended local stations for their coverage.

“Thanks to the work of first responders in partnership with “first informers” -- local television and radio broadcasters -- millions were safely evacuated,” said Jordan Wertleib, President, Hearst Television.

“Broadcasters have been heavily involved before in preparing people for a storm,” Florida Association of Broadcasters President Pat Roberts told Radio World. “They’ve been involved in the response during the storm and hopefully have saved lives by telling people what to do…Their job during disasters is to be there and speak to their community. Florida broadcasters take that very seriously.”

"The nonstop live coverage highlights the enduring importance of local media," said Brian Stelter of CNN.

View more great examples of broadcasters’ lifeline coverage of Hurricane Matthew.

WECT-TV Raises Funds in Wake of Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/21/2016

Raycom’s NBC affiliate WECT Wilmington, N.C. raised $50,000 on October 17 to support the local United Way chapter’s flood relief efforts. WECT aired 42 consecutive hours of coverage during the hurricane.

WYFF Raises $300,000 After Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/21/2016

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WYFF-TV Greenville, S.C. raised $300,000 for American Red Cross disaster relief in a 12-hour telethon on October 14. WYFF had also aired extensive weather tracking and breaking news coverage during and after Hurricane Matthew touched down.

Broadcasters Cover Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/21/2016

• E.W. Scripps’ NBC affiliate WPTV West Palm Beach: “Hurricane Matthew damage revealed as sun rises over South Florida
• Hearst’s ABC affiliate WPBF-TV West Palm Beach: “WPBF 25’s Sanika Dange braves brutal wind, rain in Jupiter
• Berkshire Hathaway’s ABC affiliate WPLG-TV Miami: “Hurricane Matthew moves closer toward Florida coast, downgraded to Category 3.” plus “Florida stations unfurl the red flags for Hurricane Matthew coverage”
• Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WLOS-TV: “’I might have made a mistake’: SC residents stay behind despite many warnings to evacuate”
• ABC-owned WABC NYC: “Hurricane Matthew Batters Florida Coast; 4 Dead as Over 1 Million Lose Power
• NBC-owned WRC-TV Washington, DC: “People Stranded in Hurricane: ’We Wish We Hadn’t Stayed’
• CBS-owned WCBS NYC: “Matthew gone but N.C. flooding, already bad, could get much worse
Florida TV Stations Brace for Hurricane Matthew’s Impact
Florida stations unfurl the red flags for Hurricane Matthew coverage
Keep Calm and Broadcast On: Broadcasters as Hurricane First Responders
• Watch video of several other local television stations’ live coverage, shared by TVNewsCheck.

WGHP Raises $26,000 in Hurricane Matthew Telethon

Date Posted: 10/21/2016

Tribune’s Fox affiliate WGHP Greensboro N.C. raised $26,000 in a 13-hour telethon for the Salvation Army following Hurricane Matthew. “We felt it was our responsibility to do what we could to help,” said General Manager Jim Himes.

Eastern N.C. Radio Hosts Hurricane Relief Telethon

Date Posted: 10/20/2016

Alpha Media’s WRNS, WERO-FM and KMYY-FM Washington, N.C. hosted a hurricane relief telethon on October 20. Gray Television’s NBC affiliate WITN also aired the event. Donations support the Salvation Army’s recovery efforts in eastern North Carolina, which included 21 mobile feeding kitchens.

WRAL-TV Raises $200,000 Following Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/20/2016

Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WRAL-TV Raleigh raised $178,000 in three hours following Hurricane Matthew. Additional fundraising efforts brought the total to more than $200,000 to benefit the American Red Cross Triangle Area Chapter, Salvation Army North and South Carolina, and NC Baptists On Mission (NCBM). View coverage of the flooding that followed Hurricane Matthew.

WECT Collects $50,000 for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 10/17/2016

Raycom’s NBC affiliate WECT Wilmington, N.C. raised $50,000 on October 17 to support the local United Way chapter’s flood relief efforts. WECT aired 42 consecutive hours of coverage during the hurricane.

WRAL-TV Raises $200,000 Following Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/13/2016

Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WRAL-TV Raleigh raised more than $200,000 for Hurricane Matthew flood relief efforts by the American Red Cross Triangle Area Chapter, Salvation Army North and South Carolina, and NC Baptists on Mission. View coverage of the flooding that followed the hurricane.

WGHP Raises $26,000 in Hurricane Matthew Telethon

Date Posted: 10/13/2016

Tribune’s Fox affiliate WGHP Greensboro N.C. raised $26,000 in a 13-hour telethon for the Salvation Army following Hurricane Matthew. “We felt it was our responsibility to do what we could to help,” said General Manager Jim Himes.

iHeartMedia Miami, WIOD Partner to Provide Continuous Storm Coverage

Date Posted: 10/8/2016

iHeartMedia Miami, iHeartMedia Latino and NewsRadio 610 WIOD provided coverage before, during and after Hurricane Matthew tore through Florida and up the East Coast. WIOD broadcast all related press conferences and added five hours of local programming as the storm headed toward the Florida coast. On October 6, all station employees and other programmers temporarily moved into the WIOD building in order to provide around-the-clock coverage. Additionally, the station updated breaking news alerts every hour in both English and Spanish, and partnered with NBC-owned WTVJ Miami and area meteorologists to provide the most up to date information.

Alpha Media Stays Live and Local During Hurricane Matthew

Date Posted: 10/8/2016

Alpha Media West Palm Beach stayed live throughout the course of Hurricane Matthew to provide important updates and information to its area listeners. In addition to constant weather updates, the stations aired conversations with community leaders and shared critical information, such as locations where listeners could obtain shelter or supplies. Alpha Media West Palm Beach Market Manager Elizabeth Hamma said the station is “a conduit of critical information for our listeners.”

Cumulus Charleston Prepares Ahead of Hurricane Season

Date Posted: 10/8/2016

Cumulus Charleston managers meet every June to prepare for Hurricane Season. They develop a plan that includes strategies for hurricane watches, warnings, evacuations and recovery. “We also have a plan on each Tower if damage is done for us to keep it on the air and remain live and local for the Charleston Community,” said Cumulus Charleston Market Manager Sherry Dollar. Communication during any emergency situation can be difficult, which is why Cumulus Charleston developed an opt-in text messaging alert system. The group also operates with an internal communication system to ensure all employees are kept up to date on the latest developments and are staying safe themselves.

CBS Radio Miami Tracks Storm, Provides Critical Information

Date Posted: 10/8/2016

With the threat of historic Hurricane Matthew barreling toward the Florida Coast, CBS Radio Miami (WKIS-FM, WPOW-FM, WQAM-AM) wasted no time in providing weather updates and critical evacuation information. “On-air and via social we are reminding listeners how to prepare before the storm – such as supply lists, family plan, securing your property/yard, pets and overall safety during and after the storm,” said CBS Radio Miami Vice President of Programming Rob Morris. The station cluster also manned communication lines to gather information from area residents. Additionally, the cluster worked closely with sister station WFOR-TV to ensure updates and information were shared with as many people as possible.

Simulcasting Allows South Florida Stations to Spread Critical Information

Date Posted: 10/8/2016

For Entercom Miami/Fort Lauderdale stations, simulcasting was a key component to a successful communication strategy during Hurricane Matthew. “We are devoting more time to simulcasting,” said Entercom Miami/Fort Lauderdale Director of Programming and Operations Rob Sidney. For example, talk-centered stations devoted programming to weather updates and information. Music stations interspersed local news, weather and traffic with locally-generated content, calls and preparation information.

Cox Media Jacksonville Utilizes Social to Keep Listeners Informed

Date Posted: 10/7/2016

Stations in the Cox Media Jacksonville cluster relied on their websites and social media platforms as an effective way to communicate important Hurricane Matthew updates to area residents. “We’re posting interactive maps to track the storm with layers that show local top flood zones and traffic issues,” said Cox Media Group’s Director of Branding and Programming Aaron Schachter. “Everything they could need is on our websites, and we make it easy to share as a resource to anyone looking for information. This is about using different ways to talk to and engage listeners.”

Georgia Radio Informs Listeners During Hermine

Date Posted: 9/26/2016

The Georgia Association of Broadcasters (GAB) shared information with Inside Radio on how Black Crow Media and Vidalia Communications served southern Georgia with “expert coverage” as Hurricane Hermine approached on September 1. Black Crow’s WVGA-FM Lakeland simulcast coverage on WWRQ-FM and WVLD-FM Valdosta and WKAA-FM Willacoochee. For 10 straight hours, they tracked the storm, took calls from listeners and city officials and shared information about shelters, safety tips and power outages. Vidalia Communications’ WTCQ-FM and WYUM-FM Vidalia combined resources to provide constant updates and information to listeners.

Baton Rouge Flooding

Date Posted: 9/8/2016

As historic flooding in Louisiana impacted at least 40,000 homes and claimed the lives of at least 13 people, local radio and television broadcasters provided remarkable lifeline news coverage around the clock. While other communications networks have failed, Louisiana’s broadcasters stayed on the air, even as many of them have lost their homes while reporting stories from the flooding. An example of broadcasters’ incredible coverage include this video from Raycom’s CBS affiliate WAFB of a group of men rescuing a drowning woman and her dog from a sinking car. The video has drawn tens of millions of views online and shed much-needed light on the plight of Louisianans.

Raycom Gets Stars For Louisiana Flood Relief Concert

Date Posted: 9/5/2016

Raycom Media’s Louisiana Rising: A Benefit Concert for Flood Relief on September 5 aired live across all Raycom stations, Sinclair stations in 26 markets and nationally on Bounce TV. Randy Jackson and Harry Connick Jr. headlined the event, which included performances from Hunter Hayes, New Orleans-based Better Than Ezra, Aaron Neville, Sonny Landreth, Chris Thomas King, MacKenzie Bourg, Luther Kent and Rockin’ Dopsie. “Our goal is to raise awareness, and more importantly, money, for the tens of thousands of people who need help to get back on their feet,” said Raycom President Pat LaPlatney.

WTHR Raises $200,000 for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 8/31/2016

Dispatch Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WTHR-TV Indianapolis raised $200,000 to assist Red Cross relief efforts following the August 24 tornado outbreak. Eight confirmed tornadoes across the state left more than 200 people homeless in Kokomo, damaged 1,000 homes and left thousands without power. Partners in the WTHR Cares Emergency Relief Network include Cumulus’ WFMS-FM, the Red Cross, St. Vincent Health, Kroger and FORUM Credit Union. WTHR provided seven hours of live coverage and created on-air promos, including one featuring former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. "Our team is committed to serving our community every day,” said WTHR President and General Manager Larry Delia. “We want to let people of Kokomo and Central Indiana know that WTHR truly cares and that we are here to help in times of need.”

KRGV Collects Money and Donations for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 8/29/2016

Manship Station’s ABC affiliate KRGV-TV Welasco, Tx. raised $74,000 on August 29 to support American Red Cross flood relief efforts in Louisiana. They also filled two semi-trucks with 150,000 pounds of water, cleaning materials, diapers and other supplies. “This is an awesome display of human kindness, of human graciousness for people they don’t even know [who] are suffering and need help,” said Mary McMinn of the American Red Cross.

WJBF Raises $20,000 for Red Cross

Date Posted: 8/23/2016

Media General’s ABC affiliate WJBF Augusta, Ga. raised $20,000 during a telethon held August 23 for Red Cross flood relief in Louisiana. WJBF gladly helped its neighbors, as more than 60,000 homes in Louisiana became unlivable.

Alpha Media Stations Raise Money for Louisiana Flood Victims

Date Posted: 8/22/2016

Alpha Media stations provided extensive coverage of the floods and encouraged listeners to donate to the American Red Cross. Portland Operations Manager Bruce Collins said, “We are honored and privileged as a media company to participate in helping the thousands of people in the Baton Rouge area who suffered from this catastrophic flooding event.” Biloxi, Miss. stations asked listeners and local businesses to donate relief supplies at the Gulfport City Hall or local fire station from August 15-16. Three semi-trucks were filled, far exceeding the goal of one truck. “Through Alpha’s outreach and radio networks, we were able to engage so many more people and had an abundance of volunteers and donations streaming in,” said City of Gulfport Public Information Officer Chris Vignes. “Some of the most memorable moments were listeners showing up with their own stories and donations.”

Radio Ink: Radio to the Rescue in Louisiana

Date Posted: 8/22/2016

According to the American Red Cross, the flood that devastated parts of Louisiana in August was the worst disaster since Hurricane Sandy four years ago. At least 13 lives were claimed and damage estimates are as high as $30 million. Radio Ink spoke with Guaranty Media General Manager Gordy Rush about the flood and how the company’s four stations in Baton Rouge covered the weather and relief efforts. Rush said, “Our team was relentless. James Gilmore, our country midday talent, who is also fighting stage 4 kidney cancer, produced 12 hours of Talk 107.3 programming over the weekend, then went to help another employee clean out his house after the flood water went down.”

WBRZ Provides 114 Hours of Live Coverage

Date Posted: 8/17/2016

Manship Station’s ABC affiliate WBRZ Baton Rouge, La. provided more than 114 hours of on-air coverage as the great flood dumped 4 trillion gallons of water on the Baton Rouge area. The WBRZ website featured live streams of the broadcast coverage, plus important safety information. The WBRZ.com team also reunited people who were separated from family members. “WBRZ’s entire organization answered the bell round after round and remains standing Louisiana Strong. Our employee’s dedication can’t adequately be expressed by words, but can be measured by the size of their hearts.” In the midst of a difficult summer in Baton Rouge, WBRZ “never lost sight of why we’re here: to be on your side - no matter what, and we won’t forget that, either," said Assistant News Director Trey Schmaltz.

WDSU-TV Holds Telethon After Historic Flood

Date Posted: 8/17/2016

Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate WDSU-TV New Orleans held a telethon on Wednesday, August 17 to raise funds and supplies for the Second Harvest Food Bank after historic flooding tore through the viewing area. Monetary donations from the telethon helped provide clean drinking water, food and cleaning supplies. More than $100,000 was raised.

Raycom Stations Assist with Flood Relief and Recovery

Date Posted: 8/17/2016

Raycom stations across the country held a variety of fundraisers after historic flooding devastated parts of southern Louisiana in August. CBS affiliate WAFB raised $55,000 for the Salvation Army and Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank on August 24. ABC affiliate WLOX-TV in Biloxi-Gulfport aired American Red Cross PSAs that encouraged viewers to donate $10 via text. In total, the PSAs aired more than 80 times and the effort collected $112,498. NBC affiliate WSFA-TV in Montgomery-Selma partnered with the American Red Cross to hold a flood relief drive on August 17. The drive ran from 10:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. and raised $50,000. NBC affiliate WAVE-TV Louisville held a 14-hour long telethon for the American Red Cross on August 16. In total, the station raised $43,066.60 for relief efforts.

KATC-TV Holds Telethon for Flood Victims

Date Posted: 8/17/2016

Cordillera Communications’ ABC affiliate KATC-TV Acadiana, La. raised $126,000 during the “Spirit of Acadiana Flood Relief Telethon" on Wednesday, August 17 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Funds were donated to those affected by historic flooding that ripped through the area that month. The telethon was held in conjunction with United Way.

Guaranty Broadcasting Covers Flood

Date Posted: 8/16/2016

Guaranty Broadcasting’s KNXX-FM, WBRP-FM, WDGL-FM, WNXX-FM and WTGE-FM Baton Rouge, La. provided 18 hours of live coverage of the floods that ravished the state. Louisiana State Police relied on radio to communicate with residents as other networks failed. “I just cannot thank you guys enough for getting the message out,” Gerard Landry, mayor of Denham Springs, La. said on WBRP-FM. “Our team was relentless,” General Manager Gordy Rush told Radio Ink. “James Gilmore, our country midday talent, who is also fighting stage 4 kidney cancer, produced 12 hours of Talk 107.3 programming over the weekend, then went to help another employee clean out his house after the flood water went down.”

Cumulus Cares for Louisiana

Date Posted: 8/16/2016

All Cumulus Stations across the country partnered with the United Way of Acadiana and United Way of Baton Rogue to raise funds for the flood victims. Every station website has a “Cumulus Cares” banner under the masthead to encourage donations. They aired PSA nationwide, for driving people to donate online. Here is an example from WGNI-FM Wilmington, N.C.

Hearst’s Baltimore Stations Partner with Ravens on Flood Relief

Date Posted: 8/16/2016

Hearst’s WBAL-AM, WIYY-FM and NBC affiliate WBAL-TV Baltimore provided viewers and listeners with crucial information as deadly flooding hit Ellicott City, MD on July 30. The flood killed two people and destroyed numerous residences and businesses. In the weeks following the storm, Hearst held several fundraisers. Hearst also partnered with the Baltimore Ravens on an “I Love EC” t-shirt to support Ellicott City. The stations sold out of their 700-shirt supply during the first fundraiser. Ravens players wore the shirts at an open practice and made 50 autographed shirts available for a raffle. As of August 16, Hearst sold over 3,600 t-shirts and raised $36,720.

St. Louis Stations Contribute to Flood Relief

Date Posted: 8/16/2016

Eighteen local radio and television stations in St. Louis joined together to raise funds for the Louisiana flood victims in partnership with the American Red Cross. During the first tragic days, more than 50 Red Cross and community shelters provided refuge for more than 10,000 people. A volunteer phone bank was open from August 22 – 28 for viewers and listeners to donate. Participating stations include Emmis-owned KSHE-FM, KNOU-FM, KPNT-FM and KFTK-FM; Hubbard’s WARH-FM; WIL-FM and WXOS-FM; CBS Radio’s KMOX-FM and KYKY-FM; Radio One’s WHHL-FM and KFUN-FM; iHeartRadio’s KSLZ-FM, KSD-FM, KLOU-FM, KMJM-FM, KKWD-FM and KATZ-AM. In two weeks, the collected efforts raised $192,150.48.

Louisiana Public Broadcasting Responds to Historic Flood

Date Posted: 8/16/2016

In response to historic flooding in southern Louisiana that resulted in thousands of destroyed homes and displaced individuals, Louisiana Public Broadcasting (LPB) immediately began to provide resources necessary for local viewers to stay informed and begin the relief and recovery process. LPB’s efforts included:

•Airing and live-streaming the Governor’s press conferences
•Producing a 90-minute fundraising special, “Education & Recovery: LPB Gives Back,” in which 100 percent of the proceeds will help replace school supplies
•Sharing news, stories, and resources with viewers, including ways to help children cope
•Creating a 2016 flood resource webpage: www.lpb.org/flood
•Collecting and disseminating supplies donated by public media
•Hosting an event in which teachers were invited to pick-up school supplies in LPB’s auditorium
•Setting up areas in temporary shelters where children could collect books from LPB’s Education Services Department
•Providing news coverage for “PBS NewsHour” and LPB’s “Louisiana: The State We’re In”
•Providing uplinks to news outlets nationwide for numerous in-studio guests
•Maintaining operations while state offices were closed

Bobby Bones Show Donates $85,000 to Flood Relief

Date Posted: 8/16/2016

The Bobby Bones Show donated $85,000 to the American Red Cross Louisiana flood relief effort after the show announced on August 16 that all proceeds from #PimpinJoy online merchandise sales would be donated. “The immensity of their support this past week has only served to prove that point, as friends rally around friends in a time of need, and that’s what our listeners have done,” said Bones.

Dallas Radio and TV Raise $167,000 for ‘Line of Duty’ Fund

Date Posted: 8/13/2016

CBS-owned KTVT Dallas, KTXA Fort Worth and CBS Radio Dallas/Fort Worth partnered with local Albertsons grocery stores to raise money in support of the police officers and their families affected by the July 7 shootings in Dallas. The effort provided $167,600 for the Dallas Foundation’s Line of Duty Fund.

WRAL-TV Creates “Unity” PSAs

Date Posted: 8/1/2016

Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WRAL-TV Raleigh produced a series of public service announcements (PSAs) to give voice to local teenagers following racially-charged shootings in Dallas, Minneapolis and Baton Rouge. The poignant :30 PSAs (Unity :30, Unity/Love :30 and Unity/One Word :30 ) and :60 PSA have the theme “Unity” and utilize local students. The PSAs aired at the end of several newscasts on WRAL-TV and on Capitol Broadcasting’s Fox affiliate WRAZ Raleigh.

Univision Provides Multi-Platform Coverage of Orlando Massacre

Date Posted: 7/24/2016

Univision News reported from Orlando within hours of the Pulse shooting, providing coverage on television, radio and digital platforms. A special digital report "49 víctimas del odio” (49 victims of hatred) launched on June 17. The exclusive report “Inside the house of Omar Mateen” was picked up by media organizations in the U.S. and all over the world, including in Italian and Dutch. Univision Puerto Rico aired the hour-and-a-half special “Unidos por Orlando” (United for Orlando) on June 17. Univision’s news magazine show produced “Aqui y Ahora” (Here & Now); “Terror en Orlando” (Terror in Orlando) on June 19 and “El Omar Que Yo Conoci” (The Omar I Knew) on June 24.

Radio Station is Lone Voice After Storm

Date Posted: 7/21/2016

Fond Du Lac Band’s WKLK-AM/FM and WMOZ-FM Coquet, Minn. was the “lone voice after the storm” on July 21. All three stations pre-empted programming to share information from emergency management services about cooling centers and downed power lines. They took nearly 500 listener calls with information, questions and messages for loved ones. “People were trying to get information, they had nowhere else to turn,” General Manager Kerry Rodd said. “One guy called us to try to get word to his sister, whose cell phone had died, saying ‘I want my sister to know that I’m bringing a generator so keep your freezer shut. It was exhilarating, gratifying and exhausting, but a great feeling to be able to serve the public that way.”

West Virginia Broadcasters Raise $334,000 for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 7/1/2016

West Virginia broadcasters raised $334,000 on July 1 in the “Rebuild West Virginia” telethon to support Red Cross relief efforts across West Virginia. Quincy Media’s NBC affiliate WVVA-TV Bluefield hosted the telethon, which aired on Gray’s NBC affiliate WSAZ-TV, Wither’s CBS affiliate WDTV Weston, Cunningham’s Fox affiliate WVAH-TV Charleston and Thomas Broadcasting’s ABC affiliate WOAY-TV Oak Hill. “West Virginia Broadcasters have always been at the forefront when it comes to serving our communities,” said West Virginia Broadcasters Association President Joe Parsons. “In the wake of the devastating floods that have impacted so many West Virginians, we want to use the power of radio and television to do all those that we can help those in need.”

Broadcasters Support Orlando Community Following Massacre

Date Posted: 6/19/2016

Radio Ink also reported on CBS Radio and Cox Media Group’s efforts in the week following the attack. CBS Radio’s WQMP-FM Orlando hosted a blood drive on June 13, also collecting donations of water, sports drinks and orange juice for blood donors. CBS Radio also worked with the city to plan and promote a candlelight vigil. Stations promoted and provided complete live coverage of local vigils across the country.

Cox Media Group’s Orlando stations broadcast and streamed on June 13 a two-hour roundtable discussion "Orlando Terror Attacks. Our City Reacts," during which on air hosts discussed the massacre and took calls from listeners. WWKA-FM and WRDQ-TV will host abenefit concert on June 21 for the City of Orlando’s OneOrlando Fund.

OTA Broadcasting’s MyNetworkTV affiliate KMIR-TV Palm Springs, Calif. invited the public to attend a special live event "Standing United," held June 17. The Palm Springs mayor, LGBT and Islamic officials, and other local faith and community leaders will participate in the event. "Standing United" will air with no commercial interruptions and stream live on KMIR.com and Facebook LIVE. "We heard the community loud and clear at Sunday night’s vigil in Palm Springs," said KMIR News Director David Reese. "They want to come together after this tragedy and KMIR News is committed to doing our part to make that happen."

Radio Provides Extensive Coverage of Unthinkable Terror Attack

Date Posted: 6/19/2016

Radio Ink and Inside Radio provided details on broadcast radio stations’ response to the tragedy. CBS Radio brought personnel from all of its morning shows to help WQMP-FM and WOMX-FM Orlando. As listeners asked how they could help, CBS provided information on where to donate blood.

Westwood One sent two reporters, Alan Scaia and Scott Kimbler, to Orlando on June 12 to cover the massacre. The station group quickly committed to keeping Scaia and Kimbler in Orlando all week to cover the aftermath and President Obama’s planned trip to Orlando on June 16.

iHeartMedia Orlando’s WFLA-FM, WXXL-FM, WJFF-FM and WYGM-AM preempted programming to air extensive news coverage produced by WFLA-FM and partners WOFL-TV and WESH-TV. "The LBGT community is well represented within our on-air talent and so there was poignancy to many of the talent exchanges," iHeartMedia’s Chris Kampmeier said. He added that radio has a unique ability to "allow and embrace listeners calling in to share their feelings and any direct knowledge of the situation they may have... They want to feel like they are part of the community and being on the radio and/or hearing those who are helps everyone feel connected and involved."

"Watching radio doing just that with its audience during such heartbreak these past few days was another reminder of the value of our storied industry and why radio talent matter," Cumulus and Westwood One Vice President Lori Lewis told All Access. "The Orlando radio market, along with cities across the country, shined in the darkest times."

"Where radio distinguishes itself and what truly spotlights its niche among all media is/was and will continue to be, its distinct ability to reach out, dig in and be part ’of’ the community," said Radio Ink Publisher Deborah Parenti.

Cox Media Group (CMG)’s Orlando stations WPYO-FM, WCFB-FM, WMMO-FM, WWKA-FM and WDBO-FM worked with CMG’s ABC affiliate WFTV to simulcast live coverage and provide reports to stations nationwide. Morning show hosts from all stations gathered at WDBO for an on-air roundtable discussion, allowing listeners to react while the news team gathered and distributed information. CMG Orlando staff members worked around the clock, providing 12 hours of wall-to-wall coverage on June 12.

"We knew that this story would capture the community, the state, and the nation and we wanted to provide a way for listeners to learn, share, and connect with each other and with our on-air team," said Operations Manager Drew Anderssen. "[We were] getting very diverse calls, most from concerned listeners who want to be able to contribute in some way to the needs of the community. Many are sharing their stories from loved ones and their families/friends."

“We are an extension of the community and we are here for our listeners to vent, cry and share their feelings,” WQMP-FM and WOMX-FM Program Director Dennis Martinez told Inside Radio.

Television Station Groups Unite to Cover Tragedy

Date Posted: 6/19/2016

TVSpy reported on television station groups collaborative efforts. Cox Media Group’s CBS affiliate WJAX-TV Jacksonville, ABC affiliate WSB-TV Atlanta, Fox affiliate WFXT Boston, CBS affiliate WHIO Dayton, and its Washington, D.C. bureau sent reporters, photographers and producers to support ABC affiliate WFTV Orlando.

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WESH Orlando was joined by team members from its Washington, D.C. bureau, ABC affiliate WPBF-TV West Palm Beach, plus NBC affiliates WBAL-TV Baltimore, WXII Winston-Salem, N.C., WYFF-TV Greenville, S.C., and WGAL Lancaster, Pa.

Fox-owned WOFL received support from stations in Tampa, Philadelphia and Chicago during wall-to-wall coverage from 6 a.m. to 11:40 p.m. on June 12. On June 13, WOFL focused on the police investigation and the effect on the community from 5 – 10 a.m. and in special hour-long newscasts at noon and 4 p.m.

It does give you pause for what this business is all about, which is providing a service and information to the public,” WOFL Vice President of News Jeff Zeller told Broadcasting & Cable.

Graham Media Group’s (GMC) NBC affiliate WDIV Detroit told TVSpy that all GMG stations made an effort to assist CBS affiliate WKMG Orlando, as the station provided wall-to-wall coverage. "Our hearts go out to the people of Orlando. WKMG is part of the Graham Media family and we all support each other," said WDIV General Manager Marla Drutz. "I can’t imagine what they and their viewers are going through."

Television Networks Provide Wall-to-Wall Coverage

Date Posted: 6/16/2016

Broadcasting & Cable provided details on network television coverage of the massacre. The television networks main anchors - CBS’s Scott Pelley, NBC’s Lester Holt and ABC’s David Muir also all flew to Orlando on June 12 to broadcast special evening newscasts. ABC sent six reporters to assist those already in Orlando, with NBC dedicating four reporters to the story. Charlie Rose and Gayle King of "CBS This Morning" also broadcast from Orlando. Coverage in the days that followed included special editions of "Dateline NBC" and ABC’s "20/20" that were devoted to the massacre.

Television Networks Provide Wall-to-Wall Coverage

Date Posted: 6/14/2016

Broadcasting & Cable provided details on network television coverage of the massacre. The television networks main anchors - CBS’s Scott Pelley, NBC’s Lester Holt and ABC’s David Muir also all flew to Orlando on June 12 to broadcast special evening newscasts. ABC sent six reporters to assist those already in Orlando, with NBC dedicateing four reporters to the story. Charlie Rose and Gayle King of "CBS This Morning" also broadcast from Orlando. Coverage in the days that followed included special editions of "Dateline NBC" and ABC’s "20/20" that were devoted to the massacre.

KHOU Raises $52,000 for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 6/7/2016

TEGNA’s CBS affiliate KHOU-TV Houston raised $52,000 for American Red Cross flood relief in a telethon held June 7 to support the hundreds of families who were displaced by recent flooding.

Radio Dubuque Staffers Honored for Heroism

Date Posted: 6/2/2016

Four Radio Dubuque staff members in Dubuque, IA - Lisa Bennett, Mike Callaghan, Josh Crowell, and Tim Lar - were honored for their heroism by the State Fire Marshall’s Office for helping evacuate Loras College’s Visitation Hall when it caught fire in March. Dubuque Fire Chief Rick Steines has no doubt that they saved lives. Loras College also presented Radio Dubuque with a proclamation from the Board of Regents. Radio Dubuque stations include KDTHA-AM, KATF-FM, KGRR-FM and WVRE-FM.

Alpha Helps Families Following Tornado

Date Posted: 5/25/2016

Alpha Media’s KSAL-AM/FM, KYEZ-FM, KSAJ-FM, KBLS-FM and KABI-AM Salina, Kan. organized a donation drive when a tornado leveled six houses and damaged 20 others on May 25. The stations contributed 50 insulated coolers and 50 bags of ice to residents without power, asking listeners to donate bottled water, coolers, ice and money. A local company provided 2,000 pounds of dry ice and 200 pairs of leather gloves. The relief effort “reinforced Alpha Media’s mission statement of why being live and local is important to our community,” said Alpha Media’s Promotions Director Danielle Norwood.

KWTV Crew Saves Man From Fire

Date Posted: 5/18/2016

A news crew from Griffin’s CBS affiliate KWTV Oklahoma City rescued a man stuck in a rapidly spreading Oklahoma wildfire on April 5. Val and Amy Castor were reporting on the fire when they saw county worker Jason Perks frantically attempting to remove his truck from a ditch. They continued filming as they urged him to hurry up and escape the fire. "I’ve seen a lot of fires. I’ve never seen a fire move as fast as this one did," Val Castor later said. "I’m thinking he’s going to be in trouble in just a minute if he didn’t get out of there ... my window of opportunity to go in there and get him was getting smaller and smaller." Perks freed himself and sprinted to the Castor’s truck. All three survived. Watch video.

Oklahoma Broadcasters Provide Lifeline Tornado Coverage

Date Posted: 5/11/2016

Local broadcasters provide lifeline emergency weather coverage as tornadoes touched down near Oklahoma City on May 9. The E4 tornadoes, with winds at 166 – 200 miles per hour, killed at least two people and destroyed multiple homes, barns and other structures. Below, here is a sample of the coverage from Oklahoma broadcasters:

  • Griffin’s CBS affiliate KWTV Oklahoma City provided critical updates as the tornado touched down near Elmore City, forming multiple vortices and spitting tennis ball-sized hail.
  • Tribune’s NBC affiliate KFOR-TV Oklahoma City produced a live blog as the tornado approached, emphasizing the need for viewers to “take your tornado precautions now.”
  • Hearst’s ABC affiliate KOCO-TV Oklahoma City caught two live videos of the tornadoes. Reporter Chris Sanner saw the tornado from a half mile away as he drove, allowing meteorologist Damon Lane to warn viewers of the approaching storm.
  • Gray Television’s CBS affiliate KXII-TV Ardmore captured footage of horses going airborne as the tornadoes spun through Murray County on May 10. Two horse ranches, both operated by the same family for more than 30 years, were wiped out by the storm. Several horses were injured.

Houston Stations Provide Critical Weather Updates

Date Posted: 4/21/2016

Cox Media Group Houston aired 42 hours of extensive coverage of a devastating flood that ripped through the area in April. Continuous weather, traffic and closings information helped keep local residents safe and in-the-know. Following the flood, the stations aired information regarding clean-up efforts.

KTRK Reporter Saves Man From Flooded Car

Date Posted: 4/12/2016

Broadcast television stations that shared video of their reports on the Houston floods with TVNewsCheck included TEGNA’s CBS affiliate KHOU-TV, Fox-owned KRIV, ABC-owned KTRK-TV, and Graham Media Group’s NBC affiliate KPRC-TV. KTRK Houston reporter Steve Campion helped a man to safety during the floods that submerged much of the Houston area on April 18. Campion was about to go live on-air when he noticed a car slowly sinking into nearby and a man crawling out of the door. He helped the man to safety seconds before the car became fully submerged. View video of the rescue.

KPRC Raises $670,000 for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 4/12/2016

Graham Media Group’s NBC affiliate KPRC-TV Houston extensively covered the historic flooding that hit the Houston metro area on April 18. In addition to the live broadcast, the station utilized Facebook Live, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and its website to get critical information to viewers on mandatory evacuations, traffic, property damage, relief efforts and casualties. KPRC also raised $670,000 during a phone bank for the American Red Cross hosted inside the station’s studios on April 19 – 20. KPRC partnered with Kroger grocery stores to continue accepting donations for the Red Cross. "It is our pleasure and our privilege to serve our community," said Promotions Director Mariah Gardner.

Radio Serves Houston During Floods

Date Posted: 4/12/2016

Local radio stations aired in-depth coverage and supported the Red Cross as 240 billion gallons of rain flooded Houston on April 18. Six people died in their cars and 1,200 people required rescuing. All Access reports that these stations included CBS Radio Houston, iHeartMedia’s KQBT-FM, Cumulus’ KRBE-FM and Cox Media’s KKBQ-FM and KGLK-FM. "We’ve been in ’taking care of our listeners’ mode for the last two mornings, and our team is meeting throughout the day today to plan a longer-term response to serve Houston as the city recovers," said Ty McFarland of independently-owned KSBJ-FM.

KCRG-TV Raises $22,000 for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 4/8/2016

Gray’s ABC affiliate KCRG-TV Cedar Rapids, IA raises almost $22,000 for the Red Cross on April 21. The telethon supports Red Cross’ recent efforts following wildfires, plus a program to distribute smoke detectors in nearby Waterloo.

Viewer Thanks KLKN for Life-Saving Coverage

Date Posted: 4/7/2016

Citadel’s ABC affiliate KLKN Lincoln, NE received the below note from a viewer, congratulating the station on its 20th anniversary and thanking the news and weather crew for life-saving tornado coverage.

“I watched the news and weather tonight as I always do early morning and evening. Congratulations on 20 years! I remember 1996 when you started out as my job at that time was close to your location. I also want to Thank You for your weather coverage at the time of the Hallam tornado. I lived in Hallam at the time of the tornado and our home was destroyed. We have rebuilt and live there now. I believe I survived because of your weather coverage. I know many Hallam folk say the same thing, that they watched channel 8 and knew to take cover. My daughter called me and told me to go to the basement and turn the TV to channel 8. I did what she said. I watched your weather broadcast and at the time I was even annoyed thinking I could not believe how you were making me so afraid of what was coming! I knew it was not normal and could not believe a tornado was coming. But, so glad you were telling us to do what you said and take cover! You did it right! People do not take the weather reports seriously!

Thank you so much for providing that serious weather broadcast and please continue to do that! Weather is not always warm and fuzzy! Thank God and Channel 8 that I am alive! You will always be my choice for my news and weather. I love Luke Dorris and his weather reports. He does a great job and I love it when he explains and teaches about the weather. Keep doing the great job you do. Keep us safe!

Thank you!”

WFBE-FM Raises $14,000 For Flint Kids

Date Posted: 4/4/2016

Cumulus’ WFBE-FM Flint raised $14,000 at a benefit on April 7 for Hurley Children’s Hospital and Hurley Children’s Clinic, to help kids exposed to lead from the city’s water. Wheelhouse recording artist Granger Smith and local artists Tegan Marie and Granger Smith performed for 850 listeners.

WIBW-AM Helps Local Ranches Following Wildfire

Date Posted: 4/4/2016

Alpha Media’s WIBW-AM Topeka, KS delivered 1,100 pounds of milk to a wildfire relief center four hours from its studio, following a devastating wildfire that started March 23 in northwest Oklahoma. Winds in excess of 40 mph pushed the fire into two Kansas counties, devastating 500 sq. miles of grazing land and injuring and killing cattle. Some of the calves’ mothers died or could not be found, causing an urgent need for milk. "These ranchers have been through a lot," said Alpha Media Market Manager Larry Riggins. "Helping those in need is part of our DNA at Alpha Media, and it was the right thing to do."

KBMT Raises $250,000 For Texas Flood Relief

Date Posted: 4/3/2016

TEGNA’s ABC affiliate KBMT Beaumont, Tx. led a state-wide donation drive on March 24 to support the American Red Cross flood relief efforts. TEGNA stations across Texas raised $250,000 during the “SETX Flood Relief: 12 Hours of Giving.”

WWL-TV Brings in $239,000 for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 4/3/2016

TEGNA’s CBS affiliate WWL-TV New Orleans helped raise $239,000 for the United Way following a February 24 tornado. WWL created a PSA on how to donate, which aired in almost all newscasts for two weeks. “Our neighbors have always supported us, and we in turn want to make sure we’re there for them,” said WWL General Manager Todd Smith. “It’s a promise we make every day, and it’s a part of what makes South Louisiana feel like a family.”

KTAL-TV Texarkana Nets $25,000 for Flooding

Date Posted: 4/2/2016

Nexstar’s NBC affiliate KTAL-TV Texarkana, TX raised $25,000 on March 18 in the ’6 Hours of Caring’ telethon to support flood relief efforts. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards joined the telethon to praise the community for pulling together.

Raycom Stations Provide Flood Relief

Date Posted: 4/2/2016

Raycom’s Fox affiliate WVUE New Orleans led a group of stations in a March 16 flood relief telethon after a week of historic rain and floods displaced hundreds of people. “It’s not only our duty as broadcasters to make sure our viewers are safe, either by warning them early of dangerous weather or keeping them informed as those storms move through our area, but after the storm passes, it is also our duty to help those around us who have been affected,” said WVUE General Manager Tim Ingram. Raycom stations that joined WVUE in raising $9,000 included CBS affiliate WAFB Baton Rouge; NBC affiliate KPLC Lake Charles; CBS affiliate KSLA Shreveport; NBC affiliate WDAM Hattiesburg MS; ABC affiliate WLOX Biloxi MS; and NBC affiliate WMC Memphis.

KSLA Informs Viewers During Spring Floods

Date Posted: 3/17/2016

Raycom Media’s KSLA-TV Shreveport helped keep viewers safe by providing extensive coverage of floods that ripped through the area in March. The station teamed up with the local American Red Cross and FEMA to collect donations help communicate with victims.

Viewers Thank KOTV for Tornado Coverage

Date Posted: 3/17/2016

Griffin’s CBS affiliate KOTV-TV Tulsa provided wall-to-wall coverage of tornadoes that hit the region on March 30. “Oklahomans unfortunately know severe weather all too well, but they again turned to local broadcasters to help protect their families,” said Marketing Manager Houston Hunt. “As part of our service to the community… Oklahoma’s Own News On 6/KOTV went into wall-to-wall coverage for four plus hours, while running no commercials, in order to keep our viewers safe, prepared and ahead of the storm... it is the right thing to do.”

The station received the following calls from viewers:

“Kellie Escue from Tilman WANTS TO THANK ALL NEWSON6 EMPLOYEES FOR THEIR EXCELLENT SERVICE LAST NIGHT DURING THE STORM!!! …She is very grateful for the continued excellent coverage of the storms last night."

"Viewer was very IMPRESSED with our storm coverage last night! She was terribly worried about [a loved one] and was afraid he was going to run out of gas. She loves our station and THANK YOU to everyone that worked so hard last night, it IS APPRECIATED!!!"

"Marilyn from Prairie Song said our station was the talk of her little town today. She said our helicopter pilots were MAGNIFICENT last night and should be awarded for their bravery and coverage. She also thanks the entire station for all of the hard work and dedication each individual gives here.”

Michigan Stations Raise $1.1 Million for Flint

Date Posted: 3/11/2016

Four NBC-affiliated television stations in Michigan - Graham Media Group’s WDIV Detroit, Sinclair’s WEYI-TV Flint, Gray Television’s WILX-TV Lansing and Media General’s WOOD-TV Grand Rapids raised $1.1 million in the “Flint Water Crisis: 4 Our Families” telethon on March 15. WDIV has aired extensive reports on the crisis. All proceeds will go to the Flint Child Health and Development Fund, which was established in January to help with things like education, nutrition and medical intervention.

KNOE-TV Monroe, LA Raised $172,000 for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 3/4/2016

Gray’s CBS affiliate KNOE-TV Monroe, LA provided extensive coverage for flood relief, after 24 inches of rain fell the week of March 7. Floods forced thousands of people to evacuate and closed schools, roads and bridges. The KNOE staff tirelessly covered the flooding. One news crew stayed on-air in wet clothes after their boat capsized. “We were completely submerged in flood water. In a matter of minutes, we went from covering the story to being a part of it,” said reporter Nicole Cross “But, I count it all joy – just a small price to pay to expose what the people here and in so many other parts of the ArkLaMiss are facing.”

WSNN-LD Provides Lifeline Coverage of Sarasota Tornado

Date Posted: 3/2/2016

Suncoast News Network’s WSNN Sarasota, Fla., provided lifeline coverage of tornados on Jan. 17 that killed two and caused widespread property damage. Meteorologists Justin Mosely, Cassie Nall and Joshua Rivas accurately predicted the storm’s development off the Gulf Coast, providing viewers with ample warning so they could prepare. WSNN provided more than nine hours of continuous live coverage. In the following weeks, WSNN covered rebuilding efforts, including Governor Rick Scott’s trip to Siesta Key. "Our viewers depend upon SNN," said President and General Manager Doug Barker. "They know when the weather turns bad, SNN will be there live and will stay live as long as conditions warrant." Read comments from appreciative viewers.

The Cromwell Group Delivers for Flint

Date Posted: 3/1/2016

The Cromwell Group’s Decatur, Ill. radio stations – WZUS-FM, WEJT-FM, WYDS-FM, WZNX-FM and WZUS-FM – and the Macon County Sheriff’s collected approximately 178,000 bottles of water for Flint on February 5. They filled seven semi-trucks. Watch video.

Rep. Frank Pallone Praises Broadcasters’ Heroic Work

Date Posted: 3/1/2016

At the NAB State Leadership Conference on February 23, Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) praised broadcasters’ "heroic work" in providing lifeline information during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, saying, "Their work — your work — saves countless lives." He specifically praised Greater Media’s WRAT-FM Point Pleasant for how quickly the edgy rock station switched to 24-hour news, becoming a vital information source. WRAT connected a listener to a family member who he hadn’t heard from for days. "WRAT had the privilege of broadcasting a family reunion that could not have happened without them," Pallone said. "And they did all this at the same time that the storm surge was inching closer to their station….To me that is what broadcasters are all about." Pallone recently proposed the SANDY Act to recognize the important role broadcasters play during emergencies and ensure that they get priority access to fuel for backup generators.

No Power, No Problem for KDVR Denver

Date Posted: 3/1/2016

Tribune’s Fox affiliate KDVR Denver did not let a power outage caused by high winds knock them off air shortly before the 5 p.m. newscast on February 18. The Denver Post said, "KDVR went old-school, just short of candelabras on the anchor desk." They posted photos and videos of the dark studio on social media, including one of Meteorologist Jennifer Broome holding a giant white board to substitute for digital graphics. "Power? Who needs power?" said one tweet.

WTVY Raises $32,000 for Flood Relief

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Gray Television’s CBS affiliate WTVY-TV Dothan, Ala., raised more than $32,000 for local flood relief efforts, following recent storms that ravaged the region.

WFAA Raises $400,000 for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Tegna’s ABC affiliate WFAA Dallas raised $400,000 for American Red Cross disaster relief efforts. The Dec. 26 tornado outbreak was deemed the deadliest outbreak to hit Dallas in 65 years, killing 13 people and destroying hundreds of homes. WFAA held a phone bank on Dec. 28, set up online donations and partnered with a local grocery store, Tom Thumb, for in-store donations.

KTUU Provides Lifeline Coverage of Earthquake

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Schurz’s NBC affiliate KTUU-TV Anchorage, Alaska, provided lifeline coverage of a 7.1 magnitude earthquake on Jan. 24. One viewer said, "Congratulations and THANK YOU for getting personnel on air as quickly as you folks did… you couldn’t have broadcast any sooner… a sense of panic set in when information was not available. Emergencies such as 7.1 or more demonstrate why there were advantages in the [broadcast] system." KTUU’s coverage can be found here and here.

WCBS and WLNY Use Special Equipment to Cover Jonas

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Broadcasting & Cable reported that CBS-owned WCBS-TV and WLNY-TV New York are the market’s only stations with a weather service on wheels, which delivers hyper-local weather data and images used on air. The stations also used bonded cellular technology in their Mobile 2 vehicles to provide a live stream of storm coverage to mobile devices.

The Baltimore Sun Praises Broadcasters’ Coverage

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Baltimore Sun Reporter David Zurawik praised broadcasters for their coverage of the blizzard. "What I did see was... a sense of public service... As it is every day, the role of the journalist is to give citizens reliable, vetted, accurate information that they can use to make good decisions about their lives. In a weather event like this, it can literally be life and death."

As Baltimore began to dig out from Winter Storm Jonas, Zurawik added, "[Broacasters were] providing a sense of shared experience and even community for some housebound viewers not particularly wired into social media. And I suspect some of those were among the residents who felt most threatened by this storm."

D.C. News Crews Go Above and Beyond

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

In addition to providing round-the-clock coverage, Tegna’s CBS affiliate WUSA crews helped Montgomery County, Md., residents dig out from under the snow. Watch video.

"It is absolutely ALL HANDS ON DECK here and the round the clock coverage has been underway online all week! I personally have brought a cot to the weather center just in case I don’t care to leave, but we have hotel rooms ready just up the street!" said Fox-owned WTTG Weather Anchor Susan Palka.

Broadcasting & Cable and TVSpy featured articles on the temendous storm coverage broadcasters provided.

WTOP-FM Values Broadcasters’ Role as a Lifeline

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

Hubbard Radio Group’s WTOP-FM booked hotel rooms for staff to ensure that the all-news station could provide important public safety, weather and traffic information. News Director Julia Ziegler said, "We see ourselves as a lifeline in emergency situations like this historic snowstorm... We become a megaphone for public officials to share life-saving information on every platform we operate: radio, web and social media. In addition, we make ourselves available to our audience via email and phone to answer people’s most important questions and sometimes just be an ear to listen. We take this responsibility seriously."

East Coast Broadcasters: A Lifeline During Blizzard

Date Posted: 2/16/2016

On January 22-23, Winter Storm Jonas brought record snowfall to the East Coast, with parts of New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. receiving more than two feet of snow.

Local radio and television broadcasters provided wall-to-wall coverage of the storm, delivering critical updates on weather patterns, road closures and emergency information to local residents. News crews and station staff members braved the elements during heavy snow falls and winds gusting at up to 40 miles per hour. They stayed at nearby hotels or set up cots at work to make sure their stations stayed on air.

The Television Bureau of Advertising (TVB)’s analysis of Nielsen data "reveals that local broadcast TV news was overwhelmingly preferred as the source for storm coverage over cable news during the blizzard on January 23, 2016."

TVNewsCheck shared a video from Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WJLA’s 56 hours of live coverage, captured by 24 crews.

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WBAL viewers thanked the station for providing critical updates. One viewer said: "I just want to give you and your news casters a HUGE SHOUT OUT!!! We can always count on you to be out there in the thick of things whether winter conditions or other news worthy conditions keeping us up to date and informed. Especially now. My heart goes out for all you guys out in this nasty night letting us know what to expect. Everyone forgets that without the news we would be in trouble. SO A BIG THANK YOU TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU!!"

WBRC Provides Severe Weather Alerts

Date Posted: 2/15/2016

Raycom’s Fox affiliate WBRC Birmingham declared February 2 a First Alert Weather Day. WBRC aired more than three hours of extended coverage of approaching severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, with no commercial breaks. The station reported on emergency plans, damage and storm shelter areas.

WGAL Provides Critical Blizzard Coverage

Date Posted: 2/1/2016

Hearst’s NBC affiliate WGAL-TV Harrisburg provided wall-to-wall coverage as Winter Storm Jonas dumped several feet of snow on Jan. 22-23. Nielsen data shows that WGAL averaged a 13.4 rating from 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Jan. 23. “I’m proud of the work our team did during the storm—under very difficult circumstances,” said General Manager John Humphries. “It’s gratifying to see these ratings and know the audience found our work helpful. It’s also humbling to know in a tough time so many people chose WGAL News 8 for the information they need to help keep their family safe.”

WFAA-TV Raises $68,000 for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 1/14/2016

Tegna’s ABC affiliate WFAA-TV Dallas raised more than $68,000 for the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund in less than three hours in a telethon held December 28. The money supports disaster relief efforts following a string of tornadoes on December 26 that killed 11 people and destroyed hundreds of homes. It was the deadliest tornado outbreak to hit North Texas in more than 65 years.

WATN-TV Raises $24,000 Following Tornado

Date Posted: 1/14/2016

Nexstar Broadcasting’s ABC affiliate WATN-TV Memphis raised $24,000 for the American Red Cross’ tornado relief efforts, in a telethon held December 30. The money raised will help more than 100 families affected by tornadoes that killed 18 people in Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi on December 23. Watch video.

CBS Dallas Raises $61,000 for Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 1/14/2016

CBS Dallas’ KTVT-TV and CBS-owned radio stations in Dallas raised $61,000 on December 28 to support the Salvation Army’s relief efforts, following tornadoes that devastated the area. During the tornado, CBS stations provided their viewers and listeners with this crucial life-line weather coverage.

Broadcasters Serve as Lifeline During South Carolina Historic Flood

Date Posted: 11/5/2015

On Oct. 7, a "thousand-year rain" event dumped 11 trillion gallons of water on South Carolina. The 26 inches of rain submerged entire towns and killed at least 17 people. Radio and television stations provided lifeline safety information on how to access water, power and shelter and updates on road closures and conditions. These stations include Alpha Media’s WWDM-FM, WARQ-FM, WMFX-FM and WHXT-FM Columbia; Cumulus Media’s WLXC-FM; Summit Media’s WJMZ-HD2 Greenville; Raycom Media’s CBS affiliate WCSC-TV Charleston and NBC affiliate WIS Columbia; Sinclair’s MyNetworkTV affiliate WCIV-TV Charleston; and Tegna’s CBS affiliate WLTX-TV Columbia.

WLTX-TV aired more than 101 hours of storm, rescue and relief coverage. WLTX hosted a phone bank for the Salvation Army Disaster Relief fund and another for residents to access safety information such as road closures. "People in the Hispanic community didn’t understand the boil water advisory and their children were getting sick because they drank the water. We were able to get the word out—in Spanish," said WLTX President and General Manager Rich O’Dell.

Stations Organize Epic S.C. Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 11/5/2015

Radio and television stations organized tremendous disaster relief initiatives in the wake of the flood. Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate WYFF-TV Greenville, S.C. raised more than $700,000 for the American Red Cross during a telethon on Oct. 7.

Greater Media’s WBT-AM/FM and WLNK-FM Charlotte, N.C. delivered 200,000 bottles of water on Oct. 8 (watch video).

Beasley Broadcasting held several drives, with the company’s Augusta, Ga. stations collecting 700,000 bottles of water and WNKS-FM Charlotte, N.C. bringing in an additional 250,000.

Alpha Media stations’ two-day radiothon raised $736,000.

Raycom Media’s NBC affiliate WIS-TV Columbia, S.C. raised $24,000 in a telethon on Oct. 8 (watch video via TVNewsCheck).

Syndicated radio host Bobby Bones and his band, The Raging Idiots, raised $82,000 at a benefit concert presented by iHeartMedia’s WEZL-FM Charleston. Access photos and audio here.

WLTX Columbia raised $141,000 in a telethon, which Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-2) acknowledged on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. His remarks are in the Congressional Record for Oct. 20, 2015.

Viewers, Red Cross Thank Broadcasters

Date Posted: 11/5/2015

WIS Columbia shared this letter from a viewer: "I would like to commend the entire WIS news team for the outstanding job they have done bringing the viewers of this state very crucial information during this historic natural disaster. We all are aware that many of the WIS news team went many hours and some of them days without sleep. They all continued to provide updated information in the very most professional manner. Your team’s unwavering dedication to getting the news out expeditiously undoubtedly saved lives and property. Your team’s dedication to this state is nothing short of heroic."
WYFF Greenville received this letter from Ann Wright, Executive Director of the Upstate SC Red Cross. It reads, in part: "There really aren’t enough words to express our sincere appreciation for the telethon you and your team conducted on October 7, 2015 to help with the floods... Thanks to you and the team at WYFF, we raised $830,519!
The power of your television reach and the mission of the Red Cross to provide immediate, emergency relief resulted in the most successful telethon in our area in recent years. In fact, we have now worked with you and WYFF since Hurricane Hugo, 25 years ago to hold eight telethons and raise $3,325,073. That is truly amazing.

Your willingness to do these telethons means that thousands of people received a hot meal, something to drink, a clean-up kit or a comfort kit filled with hygiene items and toys for children."

KCRA-TV Sacramento Telethon Nets $1.4 Million for Wildfire Relief

Date Posted: 10/19/2015

Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate KCRA-TV Sacramento, Calif., raised $1.4 million to support the Red Cross’ wildfire relief efforts during a telethon held September 15. KCRA posted this video, showing a four-year-old donating his birthday money to the firefighters. "I have enough toys," he said.

Katrina 10-Year Anniversary is Reminder of Broadcasting’s Vital Role

Date Posted: 9/3/2015

The 10-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina on Aug. 29 served as a reminder of the unique and vital role broadcasters play in times of emergencies. Many stations commemorated the anniversary with special programs. The Houston Chronicle and Britain’s BBC praised WWL-AM for staying on-air throughout the storm. Radio World provided technical details on how WWL-AM accomplished this. In reflecting on Katrina, iHeartMedia’s Bob Murphy told Inside Radio, “At that point, music, ratings and dollars are out the window. You realize how important your role is in the community. There is one focus: to serve the people that are depending on you.”

TV Raises $43,000 for Texas Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 7/17/2015

TEGNA Media’s ABC affiliate WFAA-TV Dallas led TEGNA stations in Texas in raising nearly $43,000 for the American Red Cross and Van Community Ministries for tornado relief in Van, TX. On May 10, 145 miles per hour winds killed two people, injured dozens and damaged 100 homes. WFAA launched the #LetsHelpVan campaign in six hours, distributing promo spots, social media materials and donation information to the participating TEGNA stations: ABC affiliates KVUE-TV Austin, KIII-TV Corpus Christi and KBMT-TV Beaumont; CBS affiliates KHOU-TV Houston, KENS-TV San Antonio, and KYTX-TV Nacogdoches; NBC affiliate KCEN-TV Temple; and Fox affiliate KXVA-TV Abilene.

KWTV-TV Crucial in Oklahoma City Tornado

Date Posted: 6/4/2015

Griffin Communication’s CBS affiliate KWTV-TV Oklahoma City went to wall-to-wall coverage from 2:35 - 11 p.m. on May 6, as a deadly tornado hit the area. KWTV-TV’s life-saving, severe weather information was also carried on Tyler Radio Group’s eight stations. At the height of the storm, almost 90% of households in the Oklahoma City market tuned in to weather coverage. "What could have turned into an unspeakable tragedy was partially avoided due to the warnings seen and heard from KWTV and other broadcast media in Oklahoma City," said Houston Hunt of Griffin Communications.

Radio and TV Aid Texas Tornado Vicitms

Date Posted: 6/4/2015

Gannett Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate KYTX-TV Tyler, TX partnered with Alpha Media’s four-station cluster in Tyler to help the victims of a tornado in Van, TX on May 10 that killed two people and injured dozens more. The stations become a dropoff point for food, clothing and cash donations. During power outages, local residents had relied heavily on radio for news and information about the storm. After the tornado passed, Alpha Media stations aired information about the dropoff points and told listeners: "We are asking you once again to help our fellow neighbors."

Central Texas and Oklahoma City Resdidents Rely on Broadcasters During Flood

Date Posted: 6/4/2015

After years of drought, parts of Texas and Oklahoma experienced historic rainfall that caused flooding, property destruction and power outages. More than 20 people died, as thousands of others evacuated their homes, were stranded in cars or slept in the Toyota Center after a Houston Rockets game. Local radio and television station staff braved the storm to provide lifeline news and weather to the community, raised money for flood relief and encouraged listeners and viewers to support the Red Cross.

iHeartMedia’s KASE-FM Austin, TX hosted a concert on June 3 featuring nationally syndicated radio talent Bobby Bones and his Raging Idiots band to raise money for the Central Texas Chapter of the Red Cross. "Bobby’s heart has always been in Austin, where The Bobby Bones Show got its start," said KASE-FM Program Director JT Bosch. "He wants to do anything and everything possible to help his friends and family here in the area rebuild their lives." Sinclair Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate KEYE-TV Austin raised more than $14,000 on May 27 for the American Red Cross of Central Texas.

Stations that aired wall-to-wall coverage included Gannett Broadcasting’s CBS affiliate KHOU-TV, CBS Radio’s KILT-AM/FM, iHeartMedia’s KTBZ-FM and KASE-FM Austin, Tyler Media Group’s KJKE-FM Oklahoma City, Cumulus Media’s WBAP-AM Houston and KLIF-AM Dallas, Graham Media’s NBC affiliate KPRC-TV Houston, Tribune Media’s CW affiliate KIAH-TV Houston, and Fox owned-and-operated KRIV-TV Houston. Click here to view video from KHOU-TV.

"Radio people get it," KTBZ-FM Program Director Elliot Wood told All Access. "In times like these, they shine. It is a great reminder that radio is an important part of the community."

Competitors Help Station After Plane Crash

Date Posted: 3/13/2015

Raycom Media’s NBC affiliate KCBD-TV Lubbock, Texas, was knocked off the air after a plane flew into a radio tower, killing the pilot. Nearby radio stations pitched in to ensure that KCBD-TV was back on-air within 12 hours.

Connecticut Radio Stations Help Residents Stay Informed About Winter Storms

Date Posted: 2/10/2015

Connecticut broadcasters, including Hall Communications owned stations WCTY-AM, WICH-AM, WKNL-FM, WNLC-FM, and WILI-AM/FM in Eastern Connecticut; CBS owned WTIC-AM Hartford and Osbrey Broadcasting Company owned WINY-AM Putnam pre-empted regular programming this winter to make sure residents across the state were informed about storm conditions. Areas of Connecticut were hit with up to 34” of snow as four storms hit the state in two weeks. Stations provided information from the Governor, updates from local officials, weather reports, information about road conditions and closings, plus safety tips during the storms. “Connecticut radio and TV stations have made it their priority to continue to inform residents across the state about what to expect, how to keep safe and what is going on as it happened,” said Connecticut Broadcasters Association President Michael Patrick Ryan. Click here for the full story from Radio World.

Stations Raise $218,000 for Mississippi Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 2/9/2015

Raycom Media stations NBC affiliate WDAM-TV Hattiesburg MS, NBC affiliate WLBT-TV Jackson MS, ABC affiliate WLOX-TV Biloxi MS and NBC affiliate WMC-TV Memphis, Tenn. raised $218,000 in a fundraiser held on Jan. 8. The fundraiser aids long-term recovery following the tornadoes on Dec. 23, 2014 through the Greater Pine Belt Community Foundation. The tornadoes that ripped through central Mississippi killed at least 5 people and destroyed more than 300 homes and businesses. With WDAM-TV leading the efforts, the three other Raycom media television stations assisted the efforts.

WHHL and WFUN Aid Rebuilding of Ferguson Community

Date Posted: 2/9/2015

Radio One’s WHHL-FM and WFUN-FM St. Louis hosted a radiothon on Martin Luther King Day- Jan. 19, 2015 - to help rebuild Ferguson. The Radiothon, hosted by film, television and radio personality Nick Cannon, benefitted businesses affected by the looting and fires that broke out in the aftermath of the grand jury’s decision not to indict police officer Darren Wilson for Michael Brown Jr.’s death. Each hour featured a different local celebrity or business leader encouraging listeners to make pledge. “Part of our mission statement as a company is we definitely strive to serve our community, not only with entertainment but also with information and inspiration,” said Radio One St. Louis Vice President and General Manager Gary Gunter.

Residents Tune-in to Local Television During Storm

Date Posted: 12/4/2014

The Buffalo Broadcasters Association reports that Gannett’s NBC WGRZ-TV provided non-stop coverage during the storm, pre-empting its schedule beginning early on Nov. 18. Morning hosts John Beard and Melissa Holmes were on-air for more than nine straight hours. LIN Television’s CBS affiliate WIVB-TV and E.W. Scripps’ ABC affiliate WKBW-TV aired storm coverage in place of regular morning news shows, and offered expanded news programming throughout the day. TV and radio stations also aired live news conferences featuring Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz.

Ratings soared for the early evening newscasts in Buffalo. WGRZ-TV, WIVB-TV and WKBW-TV had a combined rating of 37.9, which is equal to or greater than the ratings for many Buffalo Bills games this season. FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly said later, "I think when all broadcasters are put to the challenge, they step up and meet their obligations and the community needs. This time it was Buffalo that was challenged but I see that throughout the country through all kinds of crises that they face."

Buffalo Broadcasters: A Lifeline during Record Snow Fall

Date Posted: 12/4/2014

Last month, a lake-effect storm hit Buffalo, N.Y., with more than 60 inches of snow accumulation in one day. By the time the snow stopped falling, more than seven feet blanketed the area. Reports show that more than 140 people were trapped in vehicles and stranded for up to 30 hours on a 100 mile stretch of closed road. The storm claimed at least 12 lives.

During its fall, local radio and television broadcasters provided wall-to-wall coverage, delivering critical updates on weather patterns, road closures and emergency information to local residents.

FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly, a Buffalo native, praised area radio and TV stations for their coverage. "They kept powering through the storm, committing umpteen hours of airtime, and bringing in teams from other parts of the country, making sure they had troops to get out the information," he said. "I was very impressed also with their use of social media — not only were people listening and watching their broadcasts, they were also getting their information out as fast as they could on different media as best they could."

NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith said, "Time and again, broadcasters devote countless resources to provide vital emergency information that can’t be matched by any other communications service. Broadcasters’ response to the unprecedented snow storms that hit upstate New York is yet another example of the dedication of local radio and television stations to serve their communities during times of need."

Radio Connects Buffalo During Massive Snow Storm

Date Posted: 12/4/2014

According to Inside Radio, Entercom Communication’s WBEN-AM Buffalo pre-empted programming for wall-to-wall coverage, critical information and community support. "This is a dangerous situation for people south of Buffalo," host Larry Hunter said. "That’s why we’re going to be here all night for you." A woman named Liza and her 12-year-old daughter had been stranded in their car for 18 hours. They were cold, hungry and afraid. After host David Bellavia asked nearby listeners with snowmobiles to help, the two were rescued. "This is what talk radio is supposed to be about," Bellavia said. "Helping people." Another call came from a man trapped at a gas station with 30 others in an area unreachable for emergency vehicles.
Other radio stations with expanded coverage include Western NY Public Broadcasting Association’s WBFO-FM Buffalo. WBEN-AM sister station WLKK-FM carried WBEN-AM updates on-air and on social media. WBEN-AM’s social media posts included galleries of listeners’ storm pictures. One aerial photograph had 10,000 shares and 740,000 views. "It’s the old storm spotter thing taken to the social media level," Entercom-Buffalo operations manager Tim Wenger said. "It’s amazing the ways we reach people and they reach us."

KNIX-FM and KZZP-FM Phoenix Respond to Record Rainfall

Date Posted: 10/2/2014

iHeartMedia’s KNIX-FM and KZZP-FM Phoenix went live and local to keep residents informed during a record-breaking five-inch rainfall. The rain submerged vehicles and flooded major freeways, forcing some to close. Approximately 10,000 residents lost power. "The reminder for the staff is that in moments like these, our brands are never more relevant," VP/Programming Steve Goefferies told All Access. The storm stranded KZZP-FM morning personality JohnJay, who did part of his show via cellphone. After two hours, he escaped through his car window.

KWXX-FM Helps Hawaiians During and After Recent Hurricane

Date Posted: 9/8/2014

New West Broadcasting’s KWXX-FM Hilo, Hawaii, provided emergency information when Hurricane Iselle, which later was downgraded to a tropical storm, slammed into the Hawaiian Islands. KWXX-FM covered the severe weather event before, during and after its impact. In the wake of the hurricane, the station’s staff coordinated donations and delivered ice, water, food and supplies to some of the hardest to reach areas of Hawaii that were hit by the storm. Additionally, KWXX-FM worked with a local restaurant to serve food for locals in need and without power for more than five hours. Click here to listen to audio from one of KWXX-FM listeners who was aided by the station during the hurricane.

KCBS-AM, KGO-AM, KPIX-TV Respond After Overnight Earthquake

Date Posted: 9/8/2014

When a recent earthquake rocked Napa Valley and the broader San Francisco area overnight, radio broadcasters across the region quickly went into wall-to-wall coverage. CBS Radio’s KCBS-AM San Francisco aired uninterrupted reports with emergency information and developments, while Cumulus Media’s KGO-AM also went wall-to-wall with updates on the damage. TV broadcasters also quickly responded. The San Francisco Chronicle reports CBS-owned KPIX-TV San Francisco carried KCBS-AM coverage until the station could get reporters into the studio for a live broadcast and up to the Napa Valley where the earthquake was felt the strongest. ABC-owned KGO-TV San Francisco quickly brought in their news anchors to provide emergency updates and show images of the damage as it became available.

NYSBA President Tells of Broadcasters’ Life-Saving Activities

Date Posted: 7/9/2014

President of the New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) David Donovan described broadcasters’ response to the storm, "There is no doubt that the New York broadcast system continued to function and provide life-saving information during Hurricane Sandy. In many areas it was the only service available to connect the community with first responders." Donovan noted, "[New York’s broadcasters] are to be congratulated for their herculean efforts to keep the public informed."

KING-TV Hosts Prom for Oso Students Following Mudslides

Date Posted: 6/9/2014

Gannett Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate KING-TV Seattle was active in supporting local relief efforts in the wake of the Oso mudslides. The station’s efforts took a non-traditional turn when KING-TV learned that the local high school in Oso was having difficulty raising enough money to host their annual high school prom. KING-TV responded by hosting the Darrington High School prom. The station procured tuxedos, dresses, catering, décor, entertainment, photography, flowers and more. KING-TV made a memorable evening for Oso students and their community, which has experienced great tragedy in recent months.

KARK-TV, KLRT-TV Raise $200,000 for Tornado Recovery

Date Posted: 6/9/2014

Nexstar Broadcasting Group’s owned and affiliated television stations in Arkansas combined their local resources and staff to support the greater Little Rock community after severe storms and tornadoes tore through the region. Nexstar’s NBC affiliate KARK-TV and FOX affiliate KLRT-TV quickly set up a telethon to support the Salvation Army’s relief and recovery efforts in Arkansas. The tornado telethon aired on Nexstar and Mission Broadcasting stations in Little Rock and Fayetteville, Ark., and Monroe, La. The event raised more than $200,000 and proceeds helped purchase food, water and equipment for the Salvation Army’s mobile feeding units.

Arkansas Woman Praises Broadcasters for Saving Lives

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

A Perryville, Ark., resident, Evelyn Freeman, wrote in a letter to the editor of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, "I would like to commend all of our local television and radio stations for their news and weather-team broadcasters and for their care and concern for the residents of Arkansas during this last deadly tornado and thunderstorm outbreak. They had great concern in telling residents in the path of the tornado when to take cover, and I truly feel their actions helped save lives. May God bless all of you."

WEAR-TV to Collect Money for Victims of Recent Storms

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WEAR-TV Pensacola, Fla., is teaming up with the United Way and several local radio partners to raise money to help the victims of the recent storms. WEAR-TV’s staff will broadcast live from two local malls from 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. on May 9 to collect monetary donations from viewers and listeners. All the proceeds will be donated to the United Way.

Teacher Thanks God and WPMI-TV Meteorologist After Surviving Storm

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

A Brandon Elementary School teacher, Alicia Jenkins, thanked both God and her meteorologist friend, Derek Beasley, of Sinclair-owned WPMI-TV Mobile, Ala., for supporting her through the recent tornado in Brandon, Miss. "Those were the two who helped me through it," she said. "I’m just thankful I’m here." WPMI-TV’s chief meteorologist told The Clarion-Ledger he is also grateful. "He sees his purpose as warning people about the threat of bad weather." Click here to watch a clip of Jenkins’ remarks.

WAFF-TV Partners With Kroger to Collect Relief Funds

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

Raycom Media’s NBC affiliate WAFF-TV Huntsville, Ala., has teamed up with Kroger and the American Red Cross to help victims of the recent storm in northern Alabama. WAFF-TV is encouraging viewers to make monetary donations for the tornado relief efforts at the checkout counter at any local Kroger grocery store through May 10. All proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross. Click here to watch a sample promotional piece.

Broadcasters’ Commitment to ’First Informer’ Role

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

In response to comments from Senator Pryor and other officials, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith stated, "I join with public safety officials, elected representatives and countless Americans in thanking local radio and television broadcasters in the South for their remarkable efforts to keep citizens informed and safe during the killer tornadoes and devastating rains this [past] week. As we’ve seen time and again, broadcasters take seriously our role as ’first informers’ during emergency situations and are committed to using all our resources at our fingertips to keep people safe from harm."

Senator Pryor Applauds Broadcasters’ Lifeline Coverage

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

Senator Mark Pryor of Arkansas noted in a recent floor speech, "One of the underappreciated groups I want to mention--they probably don’t get enough notoriety, even though this may sound kind of silly--is the TV weather people. As soon as the storms were in the area, they broke from their normal broadcasting and they went with wall-to-wall coverage. I talked to so many folks in Mayflower, Vilonia, and other areas [of Arkansas] who said, ’Hey, we watched on TV, and we could see exactly where that storm was, and that is what saved us because we knew it was coming.’"

Mississippi Meteorologist Credited With Saving Many Lives

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

The Clarion-Ledger reports, "Many tornado-weary Tupelo [Miss.] residents credit their survival of the April 28 twister to Spain Family’s WTVA-TV Tupelo, Miss. Chief Meteorologist Matt Laubhan, whose urgent evacuation of the studio prompted many to take shelter at home, and which since has become a viral video on the Internet." The clip has been viewed over 1.2 million times. The newspaper quotes one resident who said, "Everyone is like, ’Matt Laubhan saved my life.’ Considering the severity of the damage, and the fact there was just one death, that’s a testament right there of the weather guy getting people prepared."

KSFY-TV Helps Save Lives With Severe Weather Coverage

Date Posted: 5/14/2014

Hoak Media-owned KSFY-TV in Sioux City, S.D. helped saved lives with its coverage of recent severe weather that swept through the South Dakota viewing area. KSFY-TV interrupted regularly scheduled programming to warn viewers of an approaching tornado and encourage them to seek shelter. A local Sioux City resident saw the weather coverage on KSFY-TV and called her granddaughter to warn her. The woman’s granddaughter and her family were able to get to safety before the tornado subsequently hit their house. Despite this lifesaving effort, several South Dakota residents called into the station to complain that they missed episodes of their regularly scheduled programming. In response to the complaints, KSFY-TV anchor, Nancy Naeve, went on air to appeal to viewers about the important role stations play in weather emergencies and the need to interrupt programming when lives are at stake. Click here to watch the video.

SR Broadcasting Hosts Radiothon for Mudslide Victims

Date Posted: 4/13/2014

SR Broadcasting’s KRKO-AM and KKXA-AM Everett, Wash., partnered with Coastal Community Bank to host the Oso Relief Simulcast, a live, commercial-free radiothon to raise money for those affected by the mudslides. During the four-hour broadcast from the Darrington Branch of Coastal Community Bank on March 31, more than $34,000 was raised, excluding the gift cards for gas and local grocery stores. More than $119,000 was collected at the branch that day. The broadcast also provided information about the long-term steps for recovery including dealing with bankruptcy and paying on-going mortgages.

KMPS-FM Hosts Benefit Concert, Raises $3,000 for Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 4/13/2014

CBS Radio’s KMPS-FM hosted an Oso Mudslide Relief Concert on April 1 to raise money for the relief efforts. The fundraiser offered several opportunities for listeners to donate to the relief effort. All funds raised will be paid directly to Casacade Valley Hospital Foundation for Oso Mudslide Victims. The benefit concert featured The Cadillac Three and local artist Jesse Taylor, and raised more than $3,000 for the Oso Strong campaign. Click here to watch video from the concert.

Sinclair Raises $225,000 During Mudslide Relief Telethon

Date Posted: 4/13/2014

Sinclair Broadcasting’s ABC affiliates KOMO-TV Seattle and KATU-TV Portland, Ore., partnered with the United Way of Snohomish County to host a telethon to raise money for landslide recovery efforts on March 27. All proceeds went to the United Way’s Recovery Fund for Mudslide Relief. The one-day event raised more than $225,000. Click here to watch video from the live broadcast.

KING-TV Joins Red Cross, US Bank to Support Mudslide Victims

Date Posted: 4/13/2014

Gannett Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate KING-TV Seattle has partnered with the American Red Cross and US Bank to collect donations for Northwest Response, a Red Cross fund that will help people affected by the Oso Mudslide. Contributions to the fund allow the Red Cross to provide food, water, medical supplies and shelter following the disaster and assist with the recovery efforts in the future.

KIRO-TV Encourages Viewers to Support Local Red Cross Efforts

Date Posted: 4/13/2014

Cox Media’s CBS affiliate KIRO-TV Seattle’s community service program, KIRO 7 Cares, has teamed up with the Snohomish County Red Cross to help people impacted by the tragic mudslide in Washington. KIRO-TV is encouraging viewers to make a monetary donation to the local Red Cross chapter, where workers are providing food and shelter to residents of Oso and surrounding communities, their families and first responders.

Atlanta Stations Provide A Lifeline to Snow-Stranded Listeners

Date Posted: 2/11/2014

Radio stations across Atlanta kept listeners informed after a rare winter storm stranded thousands of drivers on highways across the city. When cellphone service crashed, stations like Cumulus’s WYAY-FM, Cox Media’s WSB-FM, CBS Radio’s WVEE-FM and Clear Channel’s Atlanta cluster provided wall-to-wall storm coverage, with weather and traffic reports and live listener call-ins. On-air staff provided companionship and important emergency information to motorists throughout the night.

KBIM-FM Keeps Parents Informed After Local School Shooting

Date Posted: 2/11/2014

Noalmark Broadcasting’s KBIM-FM Roswell, N.M., kept area listeners informed when a local middle school was forced into lockdown for a school shooting. Within 21 minutes of the shooting, KBIM-FM had the Roswell police on air providing information to local parents and other listeners about the situation and where they could reunite with their children. KBIM-FM also used its Facebook account to share on-air information via social media.

Service to Community Award for Radio

Date Posted: 1/7/2014

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, one of the hardest-hitting natural disasters to strike the northeast, Hot 97’s Hip Hop Has Heart Foundation was in first place to respond to the overwhelming needs of the community. During the storm, Hot 97 broadcast steadily throughout the multiple power outages, providing for some the only connection to news and information. In the days following, Hot 97 ran continuous informational announcements providing critical information about disaster-relief locations and assistance. In addition to the broadcast efforts, the station’s team reached out to influential artists and public figures to provide relief to the community through fundraising and by traveling the tri-state to give out coffee, soup, blankets, clothing and other much needed items. Hot 97 raised $157,500 in pledges and donated items, and coordinated the efforts of approximately 250 volunteers.

CBS Stations in California Raise $700K for Typhoon Victims

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

CBS Television stations across California responded to the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines by partnering with CBS Radio, CBS Outdoor and the American Red Cross to raise awareness and funds for Typhoon Relief. Through efforts across California, CBS raised more than $700,000 for the Red Cross. CBS stations that participated included KCBS-TV, KCAL-TV and six CBS radio stations in Los Angeles; KPIX-TV, KBCW-TV and the CBS Radio cluster in San Francisco; and KOVR-TV, KMAX-TV and the CBS Radio cluster in Sacramento.

WGN-AM and WGN-TV Collect $503,000+ for Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

Tribune Broadcasting’s WGN-AM and WGN-TV Chicago partnered with the McCormick Foundation to host the Illinois Tornado Relief Day of Giving, a campaign to support nonprofit agencies that are providing disaster relief and recovery efforts to the Midwestern communities hit by the November tornado. While the initiative will continue through the end of the year, thus far the stations have collected more than $503,000. Click here to watch coverage of the campaign.

WSCR-AM Helps Tornado Victims During Holiday Season

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

CBS Radio’s WSCR-AM Chicago is hosting the fifth annual "Sporting the Spirit" holiday charity drive, this year shifting the focus to providing relief to those in the Midwest who were impacted by recent tornadoes. WSCR-AM set up drop-off sites across Chicago in late November for listeners to donate items that would help with the relief efforts. Beginning the first week of December, listeners will be encouraged to donate holiday gifts and children’s toys. The Sporting the Spirit drive will conclude at the end of December, when station staff will personally deliver the gifts to those in the impacted areas.

WBBM-AM Chicago Raises $2.1 Million For Red Cross

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

CBS-owned WBBM-AM Chicago raised more than $2.1 million during its Day of Giving campaign on December 3. Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Red Cross efforts to aid those affected by the typhoon in the Philippines and by disasters at home. "We were honored to assist in helping get aid to where it’s needed, both locally and around the world," said Marty Wilke, WBBM president and general manager.

NBC Washington Raises $25,000 for Typhoon Relief

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

NBC-owned WRC-TV Washington held a telethon on November 12 to raise money for typhoon relief in the Philippines. From 11 am to 7 p.m., viewers were encouraged to call in the station’s phone bank and pledge a donation to help the millions who need safe water, food and shelter in the Philippines. The telethon raised $25,000.

Hawaiian Broadcasters Host Fundraiser for Typhoon Victims

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

Broadcasters across Hawaii are teaming up to host "Kokua For The Philippines," a radio, television and Internet concert to benefit the victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. The concert will be held on December 15. Television stations that plan to air the event include KFVE-TV, KGMB-TV, KHNL-TV, KHON-TV, KIKU-TV and KITV-TV. Participating radio stations include KSSK-FM, KSSK-AM and KDNN-FM. The concert can be heard on many station’s websites and on the mobile app iHeartRadio.

KROQ-FM Raises $25,000 for Red Cross Relief in the Philippines

Date Posted: 12/6/2013

CBS Radio’s KROQ-FM Los Angeles teamed with the Red Cross to raise funds for typhoon relief in the Philippines. The station auctioned off ten pairs of Ultimate Experience Packages to its flagship holiday contest extravaganza, the 24th annual Almost Acoustic Christmas at the Shrine Auditorium. The auction raised in excess of $25,000 for the Red Cross.

WPIX-TV New York Honors Hurricane Sandy with Specials

Date Posted: 11/12/2013

Tribune Broadcasting’s CW affiliate WPIX-TV New York aired several Hurricane Sandy specials in October and republished coverage online. In "The First 36 Hours," WPIX-TV’s news crew discussed their experience being trapped by rising flood waters in Queens. WPIX-TV went on location in the hardest-hit areas on October 29, the one-year anniversary of Sandy, for "Still Standing: After Sandy." General Manager GM Eric Meyrowitz noted, "PIX11’s top priority is to serve our community, and we feel it is vital to provide continued support and highlight the issues and events that deeply affect the lives of our viewers."

Colorado Broadcasters Raise More Than $1.1 Million for Flood Victims

Date Posted: 10/4/2013

The Colorado Broadcasters Association partnered with its member broadcast stations and the Red Cross to host "Colorado Flood Relief," a live fundraiser to support the American Red Cross, the local Community Food Share, the Food Bank for Larimer County and the Weld Food Bank in their relief efforts. The stations that helped promote the fundraiser included Community Radio for Northern Colorado’s KUNC-FM, Gannett’s NBC affiliate KUSA-TV Denver, Scripps’s ABC affiliate KMGH-TV Denver, Gray Television’s CBS affiliate KKTV-TV Colorado Springs and its NBC affiliate KKCO-TV Grand Junction, News-Press Gazette’s ABC affiliate KJCT-TV Grand Junction, CBS-owned KCNC-TV Denver, Local TV-owned Fox affiliate KDVR-TV Denver, Tribune’s CW affiliate KWGN-TV Denver and Telemundo’s KDEN-TV Denver, among others. The Colorado Flood Relief fundraiser raised more than $1 million in one night for Coloradans in need.

WFMZ-TV Provides Emergency Storm Coverage Despite Losing Power for Five Days

Date Posted: 9/26/2013

Maranatha Broadcasting’s WFMZ-TV Allentown, Penn. provided round-the-clock storm coverage, remaining on-air using emergency generated power for five days. The station positioned crews throughout the community in advance so they could report on conditions. In anticipation of widespread power outages, anchors reminded viewers of various ways to get weather updates and encouraged the purchase of battery-operated TVs. WFMZ-TV also simulcast its coverage on local radio stations so that people without TVs could access emergency information.

KRGV-TV Raises Funds for Playground

Date Posted: 7/8/2013

Texas Station Builds New Playgrounds in Moore, OK Manship Stations’ KRGV-TV Weslaco, TX’s Project Playground raised $80,000 to replace two elementary school playgrounds in Moore, OK that were destroyed by the tornado. KRGV will also replace trees and include a memorial made by kids in Weslaco. "It is great the way our broadcaster community, radio and television, come together to help those in need," said General Manager John Kittleman.

Radio Unstopped by Colorado Fires

Date Posted: 7/8/2013

As the Black Forest Fire destroyed 360 homes and caused 38,000 people to evacuate Colorado Springs, Cumulus Media’s KCSF-AM, KATC-FM, KKFM-FM, KKMG-FM and KKPK-FM aired live reports, including cut-ins from KVOR-AM’s on-scene reporters, who continued reporting despite fire damage to a transmitter. "We are using our talent to connect evacuees with the help they need. Luckily, we have the resources of our KVOR-A News Team for extra news coverage," KATC’s Mike Dylan told All Access.

Bobby Bones Show Holds Online Auction for Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 7/8/2013

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s "Bobby Bones Show" raised $135,060 for the American Red Cross tornado relief effort. The show held an online auction that sold personal items, concert tickets and signed memorabilia donated by 60 country music stars. Country music labels Broken Bow/Stoney Creek Records, Black River Entertainment and Big Machine Label Group donated $5,000 each.

NY Station Raises Money After Flood

Date Posted: 7/8/2013

Smith Media’s WKTV Utica, NY raised over $187,000 through a telethon to benefit displaced residents and those whose homes and businesses were heavily damaged or destroyed by recent flooding in the Mohawk Valley and Utica. "Even viewers whose homes were damaged were calling in pledges," WKTV Station Manager Steve McMurray told TVNewsCheck. "I’m so proud of how Mohawk Valley residents stepped up to help tonight." The United Way of the Mohawk Valley and Greater Utica Area, a partner for the telethon, will distribute funds to agencies including the American Red Cross, The Salvation Army and Catholic Charities.

Entercom Donates Baseball Tickets to First Responders

Date Posted: 7/8/2013

Entercom’s WEEI-FM Boston donated 1,000 Red Sox tickets to first responders and others affected by the Boston Marathon bombing. "We are forever grateful for their heroism and hope this small gesture brings a smile to some faces across Boston," Entercom said in a statement. Tickets went to Boston police, fire and EMS workers; Boston Athletic Association; Dorchester, Arlington and Medford communities; Massachusetts State Police; Massachusetts National Guard and Boston area hospitals.

Local TV Shines During Wildfires

Date Posted: 7/8/2013

Denver’s KMGH-TV (Scripps Television), KCNC-TV (CBS Television) and KUSA-TV (Gannett) broadcast from dangerous areas near wildfires to convey news on mandatory evacuation areas and routes, actively burning areas, highway closures, wind direction and predicted lightning strikes. "Evacuation area boundaries, ’mandatory’ versus ’standby’ evacuation, wind direction and wind speed, humidity levels ... these details are literally a matter of life and death for our viewers," KCNC-TV’s Tim Wieland told the Denver Post.

Cumulus Raises Nearly $4 Million with Group-Wide Fundraising Campaign

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Cumulus radio’s 525 stations have donated at least $3.7 million for the victims of the Oklahoma tornado. The Cumulus fundraising efforts included a one-hour fundraising special on all 84 Cumulus country stations and support for the Healing in the Heartland benefit concert to aid victims through The United Way of Central Oklahoma.

Cumulus Raises Nearly $4 Million with Group-Wide Fundraising Campaign

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Cumulus radio’s 525 stations have donated at least $3.7 million for the victims of the Oklahoma tornado. The Cumulus fundraising efforts included a one-hour fundraising special on all 84 Cumulus country stations and support for the Healing in the Heartland benefit concert to aid victims through The United Way of Central Oklahoma.

Cox Enterprises Donates $1 Million to Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Cox Enterprises donated $1 million to relief efforts in Oklahoma, including a $500,000 donation to the American Red Cross and $500,000 of public service announcements and other in-kind support. "In this difficult time of recovery and rebuilding, our hearts go out to the families affected by the tornadoes," said Cox Oklahoma’s Percy Kirk. Cox’s local media properties in Tulsa are also hosting a series of fundraisers.

Hearst Stations Raise $1 Million for Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Hearst’s TV stations across the country have followed KOCO-TV Oklahoma City’s lead in raising money for relief efforts in Oklahoma. Since the storms, Hearst stations in Omaha, Kansas City, Sacramento, Baltimore and many other cities have raised $1 million and collected tons of emergency supplies. "The tragic tornado of Moore, Oklahoma is another reminder of the critical public service role of local broadcast television stations," said Hearst Television Inc. President Jordan Wertlieb.

Hearst Stations Raise $1 Million for Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Hearst’s TV stations across the country have followed KOCO-TV Oklahoma City’s lead in raising money for relief efforts in Oklahoma. Since the storms, Hearst stations in Omaha, Kansas City, Sacramento, Baltimore and many other cities have raised $1 million and collected tons of emergency supplies. "The tragic tornado of Moore, Oklahoma is another reminder of the critical public service role of local broadcast television stations," said Hearst Television Inc. President Jordan Wertlieb.

Cox Enterprises Donates $1 Million to Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Cox Enterprises donated $1 million to relief efforts in Oklahoma, including a $500,000 donation to the American Red Cross and $500,000 of public service announcements and other in-kind support. "In this difficult time of recovery and rebuilding, our hearts go out to the families affected by the tornadoes," said Cox Oklahoma’s Percy Kirk. Cox’s local media properties in Tulsa are also hosting a series of fundraisers.

NBC and Blake Shelton Help in the Heartland, Raising $6 Million for the United Way

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

NBC hosted the Healing in the Heartland benefit concert featuring Blake Shelton and special guests Miranda Lambert, Usher, Reba, Darius Ruker and others. The program also aired on Clear Channel and Cumulus stations across the country. The concert raised more than $6 million in pledges and ticket sales to help Oklahomans affected by the May 20 tornado. All proceeds went to the United Way of Central Oklahoma.

NBC and Blake Shelton Help in the Heartland, Raising $6 Million for the United Way

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

NBC hosted the Healing in the Heartland benefit concert featuring Blake Shelton and special guests Miranda Lambert, Usher, Reba, Darius Ruker and others. The program also aired on Clear Channel and Cumulus stations across the country. The concert raised more than $6 million in pledges and ticket sales to help Oklahomans affected by the May 20 tornado. All proceeds went to the United Way of Central Oklahoma.

Raycom Stations Raise More Than $100,000 and Collect Truckloads of Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

WSFA-TV, WAFB-TV, WBRC-TV Raise More Than $100,000 and Collect Truckloads of Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

WMC-TV

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Raycom Stations Raise More Than $100,000 and Collect Truckloads of Supplies

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

Raycom Stations Raise More Than $100,000 and Collect Truckloads of Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

Raycom Stations Raise More Than $100,000 and Collect Truckloads of Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

KAIT-TV Raises $100,000 and Collects Truckloads of Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

Raycom Stations Raise More Than $100,000 and Collect Truckloads of Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Several Raycom Media-owned television stations conducted relief efforts following the tornado. Stations donating to the American Red Cross include WSFA-TV Montgomery, Ala. ($50,232); WMC-TV Memphis ($36,000); WCSC-TV Charleston, S.C. ($10,000); WWBT Richmond, Va. (over $7,000); and KAIT-TV Jonesboro, Ark., organized a statewide telethon. WAFB-TV Birmingham, Ala., collected several storage unit’s full of supplies for the Salvation Army in its one day donation drive. WBRC-TV Birmingham collected 200,000 pounds of water for the Salvation Army. KOLD-TV Tucson, Ariz., filled two semi-trucks with supplies, to be distributed by World Care.

Centennial Broadcasting Contributes to Tornado Relief

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Centennial Broadcasting’s stations in Fredericksburg, Va., donated $1,001.50 during the stations’ Operation: Help Moore event. During the six-hour broadcast, listeners donated over 15,000 relief items and $1,176.50 in contributions. Centennial’s $1,001.50 donation was used to purchase children’s items such as playpens, baby formula, baby wipes, towels and pillows.

Premier Broadcasting Fills 53-Foot Truck with Relief Supplies

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Premier Broadcasting in Effengham, Ill., partnered with several local businesses to host the "More 4 Moore" campaign to collect emergency supplies for those affected by the tornadoes. Premier created a webpage for the campaign and included solicitations on their Facebook page. Listeners filled a 53-foot truck with donations for tornado victims.

Ponca City Radio Stations Raise $27,000 for Fellow Oklahomans

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Radio stations in Ponca City, Okla., including Team Radio’s KPNC-FM and KLOR-FM, raised $27,000 for the American Red Cross. Station owner Bill Coleman said a local girls dance group "emptied their checking account" to bring $1,100 to the stations’ donation "drive through," which received a total $11,000 in 11 hours. KPNC-FM and KLOR-FM promoted the generosity at Roosevelt Elementary, where students unanimously voted to spend their field trip and its $1,400 budget to purchase relief supplies. Coleman noted the town of 25,000 sent at least $27,000 and four truckloads of goods to Moore.

Stillwater Radio Collects $24,000 for Oklahoma Neighbors

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

In advance of Memorial Day, Stillwater Radio, which owns four-stations in Stillwater, Okla., hosted a radiothon that raised $24,000 in donations for tornado victims, including a $10,000 check from the radio group. All donations went to the local American Red Cross. Mary Ann White, the executive director of the American Red Corss noted, "no disaster ever will exceed the caring spirit of Oklahomans! From all of us at your American Red Cross, thank you for hosting the only Stillwater Radiothon for your local Red Cross Chapter."

Local Broadcasters as First Informers During Oklahoma Tornadoes

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Local broadcasters saved countless lives with continuous coverage and safety information as tornadoes ravaged Oklahoma. Oklahoma Broadcasters Association President Vance Harrison told Inside Radio that he is "proud to be a broadcaster," as "the experience of the weather forecasters saved countless lives in what will be the single largest tornado in our history." Griffin Communication’s KWTV captured images of the damage via helicopter 15 minutes after the tornado passed, beating rescuers to some areas and spurring the disaster to the top of the national news. "The live pictures and information, almost universally praised by viewers from afar who saw it online and on cable news channels, reminded some of the enduring value of local broadcasters at a time when apps and social networks tend to get more attention," Brian Stelter wrote in the New York Times. Oklahoma governor Mary Fallin thanked broadcasters in her post-storm press conference, saying, "the media has done a superb job over the last couple of days of keeping people informed about the current weather conditions, especially our weathermen and those that have been on the ground driving and calling and tracking the storm itself." Broadcasting & Cable’s John Eggerton wrote that she "essentially echoed a point that is made periodically whenever informing the public becomes not just a matter of FCC public interest obligations, but one of life and death."

Local Broadcasters as First Informers During Oklahoma Tornadoes

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Local broadcasters saved countless lives with continuous coverage and safety information as tornadoes ravaged Oklahoma. Oklahoma Broadcasters Association President Vance Harrison told Inside Radio that he is "proud to be a broadcaster," as "the experience of the weather forecasters saved countless lives in what will be the single largest tornado in our history." Griffin Communication’s KWTV captured images of the damage via helicopter 15 minutes after the tornado passed, beating rescuers to some areas and spurring the disaster to the top of the national news. "The live pictures and information, almost universally praised by viewers from afar who saw it online and on cable news channels, reminded some of the enduring value of local broadcasters at a time when apps and social networks tend to get more attention," Brian Stelter wrote in the New York Times. Oklahoma governor Mary Fallin thanked broadcasters in her post-storm press conference, saying, "the media has done a superb job over the last couple of days of keeping people informed about the current weather conditions, especially our weathermen and those that have been on the ground driving and calling and tracking the storm itself." Broadcasting & Cable’s John Eggerton wrote that she "essentially echoed a point that is made periodically whenever informing the public becomes not just a matter of FCC public interest obligations, but one of life and death."

ABC’s KABC-TV Los Angeles Raises $445,000 for Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

ABC-owned KABC-TV Los Angeles, with the Orange County and Los Angeles Chapters of the American Red Cross, raised $445,000 for Oklahoma tornado victims during The Tornado Relief Drive on May 22. The event featured several on-air personalities and collected $410,000 in one day, in addition to $35,000 in mail-in donations. "Time after time, we have seen the people of Southern California come together in a time of need, no matter where the need is, and we are grateful to them for their generosity," said Arnold J. Kleiner, president-GM of KABC-TV.

WTHR-TV Indianapolis Raises $60,000 for Oklahoma Victims

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Dispatch Broadcasting Group’s WTHR-TV Indianapolis hosted the "WTHR Cares: Oklahoma Tornado Relief" drive to provide donations to the American Red Cross. The effort raised more than $60,000 from viewers who donated online or at several locations throughout Central Indiana. "We are always amazed and grateful for the generosity of Hoosiers," said WTHR President-GM John Cardenas.

Terre Haute Radio and TV Stations Partner for Relief Effort

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Midwest Communications’ five stations in in Terre Haute, Ind., partnered with local NexStar-owned WTWO-TV for "Mission: Moore" to raise money for Oklahoma tornado victims. The 13-hour event collected enough supplies to fill a semi-truck and raised more than $26,000.

CBS Dallas / Fort Worth Continues to Raise Money

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

CBS-owned KTVT-TV Fort Worth and KLUV-FM Dallas partnered with the Dallas Cowboys and Albertsons Markets to raise money for tornado victims. The initial phone bank on May 16 raised more than $19,000 and a follow-up effort the next week added $45,000. Additional funds will be collected via online donations, mailed checks and the in-store donations through June 6.

CBS Philly Raises $225,000 During One-Day Relief Effort

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

CBS-owned stations in Philadelphia – KYW-TV, WPSG-TV, KYW-AM, WOGL-FM, WIP-AM/FM and WPHT-AM – raised more than $225,000 during "Operation Brotherly Love: Helping Moore." On-air talent and volunteers answered phones from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 23. All proceeds went to the American Red Cross. "Once again we are overwhelmed at the generosity of our viewers who always come through for their neighbors whether it’s locally, across the country or around the world," said the stations’ general manager, Jon Hitchcock.

Scripp’s WXYZ-TV Detroit’s Telethon Raises $85,000

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Scripps-owned WXYZ-TV Detroit partnered with the American Red Cross Southeastern Michigan Region to host a live telethon to raise money for Oklahoma disaster victims. The station’s viewers donated $85,000. "Once again, the entire WXYZ team and the Detroit community rose to the occasion and took action. Our ability to respond to this tragedy and mobilize our efforts in a matter of hours truly reflects the passion of this team – and this city," said WXYZ Station Manager Mike Murri.

WRAL-TV Raises $94,000 from North Carolina Viewers During Relief Telethon

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Capitol Broadcasting’s WRAL-TV Raleigh, N.C., raised $94,000 for the American Red Cross and Salvation Army tornado relief efforts. The Here to Help: Disaster Relief Telethon featured a commercial-free, primetime broadcast of the UNC School of the Arts’ award-winning production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s "Oklahoma!" with live cut-ins from the studio. The telethon was simulcast statewide on public television station UNC-EX. "This was a true partnership, a uniquely North Carolina way to help those families who are hurting in Oklahoma," said Steven D. Hammel of WRAL. "The results truly demonstrate the power of local television, both commercial and public, to be both lifelines in the moment of emergency and in the aftermath."

WDSU-TV New Orleans Raises $55,000 During Two-Night Campaign

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Hearst-owned WDSU-TV New Orleans partnered with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana for "Help For Oklahoma," a two-night, four-hour phone bank. For two nights, WDSU-TV committed all of its local commercial breaks between 6 and 8 p.m. to run on-air appeals for donations, and ran a continuous on-screen ticker with the phone number during regular programming. In total, the campaign raised $55,000 for vicitims of the Oklahoma tornadoes.

CBS’s KYKY-FM Raises $67,000 with 14-Hour Request-A-Thon

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

CBS Radio’s KYKY-FM St. Louis morning show, "Phillips and Company" raised more than $67,000 for the American Red Cross’s relief effort in Oklahoma. KYKY-FM held a 14-hour on-air request-a-thon playing listener requests for donations. The benefit raised $33,670 and a local business matched each donation.

WITI-TV Raises $125,000 for Tornado Victims

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Independently-owned WITI-TV Milwaukee worked with the American Red Cross to host three phone banks following the tornadoes in Moore, Okla. Over the course of those phone banks, WITI-TV’s viewers donated $125,000 to the Red Cross’s relief efforts.

Iowa Radio and TV Stations Raise $38,000 for Relief Efforts

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Young Broadcasting’s KWQC-TV Davenport, Iowa, raised more than $38,000 for the American Red Cross’ relief efforts in Moore, Okla. Six radio stations owned by the Clear Channel Radio Group partnered with KWQC-TV in requesting donations through broadcast and social media outlets. "The kindness of the Quad Cities never ceases to amaze me," said Ken Freedman, vice president and general manager of KWQC. Last fall, KWQC received similar levels of support in fundraising following Hurricane Sandy.

WPOW-FM Host Drives 80,000 Pounds of Supplies to Moore

Date Posted: 6/7/2013

Beasley Broadcast Group’s WPOW-FM Miami collected 80,000 pounds of supplies such as water, non-perishable food, baby supplies, pet supplies, electric wheelchairs, toiletries, rakes and shovels for tornado victims in Moore, Okla. During three days of live broadcasts, the station encouraged residents to write "messages of hope" on their donated items to add a personal touch. WPOW-FM afternoon host Africa traveled 27 hours from Miami to Moore with the two trucks that contained the 80,000 pounds of goods. The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Club provided 300 retired police officers as an escort on the journey, which WPOW-FM documented on-air and via social media.

Service to Community Award for Radio

Date Posted: 6/3/2013

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, one of the hardest-hitting natural disasters to strike the northeast, Hot 97’s Hip Hop Has Heart Foundation was in first place to respond to the overwhelming needs of the community. During the storm, Hot 97 broadcast steadily throughout the multiple power outages, providing for some the only connection to news and information. In the days following, Hot 97 ran continuous informational announcements providing critical information about disaster-relief locations and assistance. In addition to the broadcast efforts, the station’s team reached out to influential artists and public figures to provide relief to the community through fundraising and by traveling the tri-state to give out coffee, soup, blankets, clothing and other much needed items. Hot 97 raised $157,500 in pledges and donated items, and coordinated the efforts of approximately 250 volunteers.

Hearst Television Provides In-Depth Coverage and Support for Bostonians

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Hearst Television’s WCVB-TV Boston coverage reached two-thirds of Boston households during the capture of the Boston Marathon bombing suspect. In a broadcast editorial, WCVB-TV President and General Manager Bill Fine praised first responders, honored the wounded and their families and encouraged donations to One Fund Boston. Following the tragedy WCVB-TV promoted "’Boylston is Back" on-air, online and in an e-blast to 80,000 subscribers. The campaign encouraged residents to spend at least $25 on Boylston Street on April 27, as the mandatory ’city shutdown’ on April 19 cost an estimated $250 - $333 million.

Nation Tunes in to Local Coverage of Boston Marathon Tragedy

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

On Monday, April 15, two bombs exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, killing three and injuring more than 200 people. Local television and radio broadcasters provided outstanding wall-to-wall coverage. Politico reported that President Obama got his news from local Boston stations Sunbeam’s WHDH-TV and Hearst Television’s WCVB-TV. Rob Owen of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said coverage on Boston’s local stations was "largely professional, measured and superior to what the cable and [broadcast] networks had to offer... [T]he best coverage could be found on local TV in Boston, which was available online via Web streams." The Boston Herald praised broadcasters, noting that WHDH-TV’s Adam Williams reported on the air while the two suspects and police exchanged 200 rounds of gunfire.

Texas Stations Support Firefighters Hurt in Fertilizer Blast

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s WACO-FM Waco, TX organized an online auction of artist memorabilia to benefit the West, TX fire department, whose members were among the first responders to the explosion at the fertilizer plant that killed 12 and injured 200. CBS Radio’s Houston stations, including KILT-FM, held a relief effort at a grocery store that aimed to fill an 18-wheeler with bottled water, blankets, toiletries and non-perishable food.

Radio Is Boston Strong

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Radio united Boston after the Boston Marathon bombing. Entercom’s WEEI-FM distributed thousands of "Boston Strong" signs, which fans waved during a tribute at the Red Sox home game with the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park. Boston radio stations also observed a moment of silence on April 22 at 2:50 pm, the exact time when the bombs went off a week before. "As first informers in times of crisis, broadcasters want to take this opportunity to salute the first responders and the many unsung heroes who do so much during emergency situations," said NAB President Gordon Smith.

Greater Media Boston Donates to Victims and Area Stores

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Greater Media Boston suspended all on-air contesting for the week after the bombing, instead donating $8,000 of prize money to One Fund Boston. To support Mayor Menino’s "Boylston Strong" effort, the stations offered free roundtrip upper deck trolley rides to Boylston Street on April 28th. Greater Media’s Boston stations include WBQT-FM, WKLB-FM, WMJX-FM, WBOS-FM and WROR-FM.

Entercom’s Boston Stations Donate to Bomb Victims Fund

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Entercom, which owns WEEI-FM, WRKO-AM and WAAF-FM in Boston, donated $25,000 to One Fund Boston. WAAF-FM morning show host Greg Hill was holding a fundraiser for his foundation a few blocks from the finish line when the bombs exploded. His event raised $11,000, which he donated to the bombing victims. Here is a short interview with Hill featured in Radio Ink.

Kenny Chesney and WKLB-FM Spread the Love for Boston

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Kenny Chesney worked with Greater Media’s WKLB-FM Boston to provide prosthetics to amputees after the Boston Marathon bombings. He started the Spread the Love Fund with a sizable donation, including proceeds from downloaded single sales of "Spread The Love," so the Boston Medical Center can supply prosthetics, fittings, ongoing care and physical therapy. "It’s hard to imagine a world where taking your children to school, going to the movies, or witnessing something as iconic as the Boston Marathon is a dangerous thing to do," Chesney said. "For me, I want to help give these people as much of their lives back as possible."

Nation Tunes in to Local Coverage of Boston Marathon Tragedy

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

On Monday, April 15, two bombs exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, killing three and injuring more than 200 people. Local television and radio broadcasters provided outstanding wall-to-wall coverage. Politico reported that President Obama got his news from local Boston stations Sunbeam’s WHDH-TV and Hearst Television’s WCVB-TV. Rob Owen of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said coverage on Boston’s local stations was "largely professional, measured and superior to what the cable and [broadcast] networks had to offer... [T]he best coverage could be found on local TV in Boston, which was available online via Web streams." The Boston Herald praised broadcasters, noting that WHDH-TV’s Adam Williams reported on the air while the two suspects and police exchanged 200 rounds of gunfire.

Media General Stations Fundraise for Myrtle Beach Fire Victims

Date Posted: 5/10/2013

Media General’s WBTW-FM Myrtle Beach, SC and the American Red Cross raised $27,000 after a fire in Carolina Forest burned more than 100 condominiums, displacing 200 people. "The financial donations they’re giving to the Red Cross are wonderful to be able to give to our fire families. It will help them get back on their feet again, which is really important," said American Red Cross volunteer Judy Delsignore.

YMF Media’s New York Station Hosts Food Drive for Hurricane Sandy Victims

Date Posted: 3/1/2013

YMF Media’s WBLS-FM New York partnered with The Salvation Army and The Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company to hold a food drive for Hurricane Sandy victims on March 22 at several locations in New York and New Jersey. "WBLS is proud to partner with A&P and The Salvation Army to help people affected by Hurricane Sandy," said WBLS Vice President and General Manager Deon Levingston. "We have been on the front line of this recovery effort, and it’s our honor to conduct this food drive to support the community."

WXIX-TV Cincinnati Raised $119,000 for Red Cross

Date Posted: 3/15/2012

Raycom Media’s Fox affiliate WXIX-TV raised more than $119,000 for the Red Cross in March 2012. The all-day telethon supported long-term relief efforts for victims of the severe storms and deadly tornadoes to the Tri-state almost one week ago.

Nation Tunes in to Local Coverage of Boston Marathon Tragedy

On Monday, April 15, two bombs exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon, killing three and injuring more than 200 people. Local television and radio broadcasters provided outstanding wall-to-wall coverage. Politico reported that President Obama got his news from local Boston stations Sunbeam’s WHDH-TV and Hearst Television’s WCVB-TV. Rob Owen of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said coverage on Boston’s local stations was "largely professional, measured and superior to what the cable and [broadcast] networks had to offer... [T]he best coverage could be found on local TV in Boston, which was available online via Web streams." The The Boston Herald praised broadcasters, noting that WHDH-TV’s Adam Williams reported on the air while the two suspects and police exchanged 200 rounds of gunfire.

CBS Philly Hosts Red Cross Fundraiser

CBS Television’s Philadelphia stations KYW-TV/AM, WPSG-TV, WOGL-FM, WIP-AM/FM, WPHT-AM, plus CBSPhilly.com and CBS Outdoor, collaborated on "Operation Brotherly Love: Sandy’s Aftermath." On Nov. 2, volunteers, on-air personalities, the American Red Cross and partner Wawa staffed a phone bank. They took pledges for the American Red Cross Hurricane Sandy Response Fund at the top of every hour and in KYW-TV and WPSG-TV news segments. CBS stations created Operation Brotherly Love in 2001 after 9/11. The program has since raised $300,000 for Tsunami victims, over $1 million for Katrina victims and almost $1 million after the Haitian Earthquake.

Philly’s WCAU-TV Swiftly Sets Up Red Cross Phone Bank

CBS-owned WCAU-TV Philadelphia started a phone bank with the Red Cross and received 600 calls on Sunday alone, according to a spokeswoman. The station planned a day long "NBC10 Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund" for Monday, Nov. 5 to encourage viewers to donate to the Red Cross. WCAU-TV also promoted information on disaster relief, insurance information, commuter train updates and information on how to avoid Sandy-related scams.

New York Radio Stations Reach Sandy Victims

Emmis Communication’s WQHT-FM New York distributed blankets, clothing, HD Radios and health products to Hurricane Sandy victims through its Hip Hop Has Heart Foundation. Clear Channel told Inside Radio that its stations’ donation drives brought in two tons of goods in New York and 200,000 pounds in Connecticut. Morning host Elvis Duran’s spokesperson told All Access that he personally donated $30,000, on top of joining Clear Channel’s collection efforts. Cumulus Media’s WABC-AM/FM promoted drop off locations for donations, while Cumulus’s WPLJ-FM held a six-day donation drive and sold #savestatenisland t-shirts to benefit victims.

Fisher Communications Develops Multipronged Approach to Raise Japan Relief Funds

Fisher Communications Inc., in partnership with the Red Cross, launched a fundraising campaign to help the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan via Fisher’s television, radio and online media properties across six markets and all of the company’s online and mobile platforms. To date, the company has collected more than $550,000 in funds that will support the Red Cross’ relief work and other disaster management experts to continue to deliver food, shelter and emotional support to those in need in Japan. Randy Hutson, CEO of Seattle Red Cross said, "The fundraising effort launched between the Red Cross and Fisher Communications is one of the most successful I’ve seen during my time with the Red Cross. The idea was created and launched within days of the disaster and the amazing work of both Fisher’s staff and Red Cross volunteers made it happen! The multi-faceted nature of the campaign enabled us to reach people not only through television, but radio and the Internet, providing a lot of flexibility for the general public."

Fisher Communications Develops Multipronged Approach to Raise Japan Relief Funds

Fisher Communications Inc., in partnership with the Red Cross, launched a fundraising campaign to help the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan via Fisher’s television, radio and online media properties across six markets and all of the company’s online and mobile platforms. To date, the company has collected more than $550,000 in funds that will support the Red Cross’ relief work and other disaster management experts to continue to deliver food, shelter and emotional support to those in need in Japan. Randy Hutson, CEO of Seattle Red Cross said, "The fundraising effort launched between the Red Cross and Fisher Communications is one of the most successful I’ve seen during my time with the Red Cross. The idea was created and launched within days of the disaster and the amazing work of both Fisher’s staff and Red Cross volunteers made it happen! The multi-faceted nature of the campaign enabled us to reach people not only through television, but radio and the Internet, providing a lot of flexibility for the general public."

Fisher Communications Develops Multipronged Approach to Raise Japan Relief Funds

Fisher Communications Inc., in partnership with the Red Cross, launched a fundraising campaign to help the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan via Fisher’s television, radio and online media properties across six markets and all of the company’s online and mobile platforms. To date, the company has collected more than $550,000 in funds that will support the Red Cross’ relief work and other disaster management experts to continue to deliver food, shelter and emotional support to those in need in Japan. Randy Hutson, CEO of Seattle Red Cross said, "The fundraising effort launched between the Red Cross and Fisher Communications is one of the most successful I’ve seen during my time with the Red Cross. The idea was created and launched within days of the disaster and the amazing work of both Fisher’s staff and Red Cross volunteers made it happen! The multi-faceted nature of the campaign enabled us to reach people not only through television, but radio and the Internet, providing a lot of flexibility for the general public."

ABC Raises Nearly $17 Million for Hurricane Relief

ABC’s national "Day of Giving" raised nearly $17 million for Hurricane Sandy relief. Throughout the day on November 5, the network urged viewers to contribute to the American Red Cross to assist victims of the storm. Major contributors included ABC news personalities Barbara Walters and George Stephanopoulos and Dallas Mavericks owner and star of ABC’s "Shark Tank" Mark Cuban.

Cincinnati Broadcasters Provide Lifeline During Storm

Last week, as severe storms and tornadoes moved across the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky DMA, the area’s four local broadcast television stations were live on air, commercial free, until nearly 3 a.m. providing weather updates and information to keep their viewers safe. According to Nielsen, between 1 and 2:30 a.m. the four local stations had a combined household ratings of more than 30. To put that in context, more people were awake from 1 to 2:30 a.m. watching weather coverage provided by local broadcasters than would be watching a Sunday afternoon Bengals game. Scripps Television-owned WCPO-TV, Cincinnati’s ABC affiliate, had a household rating of more than 10 between 1 and 2:30 a.m., the second highest rated programming of the day only behind "Dancing With The Stars."

WJAR-TV Provides Hurricane Irene Relief

While residents in Providence, R.I. waited for the electricity to be restored in their homes after Irene cut off power to many in the state, Media General’s WJAR-TV Providence simulcast the audio portion of its newscast on Clear Channel’s WHJJ-AM Providence. The arrangement allowed locals to receive the TV stations’ round-the-clock coverage on battery-operated radio. According to WJAR-TV’s General Manager, Craig Jahelka, "This was yet another instance of local broadcasters working together to serve the public interest, protect lives and deliver emergency information in a time of life-threatening conditions."

Congressman Recognizes Zimmer Radio for Outstanding Tornado Coverage

Missouri Congressman Billy Long presented the Zimmer Radio Group with a copy of the Congressional Record from December 16, when he cited Zimmer Radio’s work following the May 22 tornado. NewsTalk KZRG-AM Joplin, Mo., and Zimmer Radio provided live 24-hour coverage for over a week following the deadly tornado in Missouri.

"It was just excruciating to drive down over here from Springfield and hear people call crying, panicked, looking for family members, didn’t know which end was up, didn’t know if their folks were alive, in a hospital, where they might be," said Long.

One KZRG-AM listener, Patricia Katopol, said the recognition was "absolutely well deserved. I listened online for days and was very impressed with the quality of programming – and the obvious concern and care that the broadcasters had for their fellow citizens – during the crisis."

ABC O&Os Report Record Online Traffic During Hurricane

ABC-owned WPVI-TV Philadelphia and WABC-TV New York City experienced record online traffic during Hurricane Sandy. WPVI-TV’s website included live streams, updates on disaster aid, power outages, school closings, photos and video. The station had 13.1 million page views (mobile and desktop) on Monday and 9 million on Sunday. WABC-TV hit a record 7 million page views on mobile and desktop on Monday with advice for communicating after the storm, information on the NYC subway restoration plan and a plethora of eyewitness photos and video from users. Both station’s apps entered the top ten free news apps for the iPhone during the storm.

ABC O&Os Report Record Online Traffic During Hurricane

ABC-owned WPVI-TV Philadelphia and WABC-TV New York City experienced record online traffic during Hurricane Sandy. WPVI-TV’s website included live streams, updates on disaster aid, power outages, school closings, photos and video. The station had 13.1 million page views (mobile and desktop) on Monday and 9 million on Sunday. WABC-TV hit a record 7 million page views on mobile and desktop on Monday with advice for communicating after the storm, information on the NYC subway restoration plan and a plethora of eyewitness photos and video from users. Both station’s apps entered the top ten free news apps for the iPhone during the storm.

Greater Media Philadelphia Stations Air Up-To-The-Minute Hurricane Coverage

Greater Media’s Philadelphia stations, WMMR-FM, WMGK-FM, WBEN-FM and WPEN-FM, kept local families informed and connected with up-to-the-minute Hurricane Sandy coverage. The stations’ on-air teams worked closely with local television station news and weather reporters to provide live updates throughout the storm. Additionally, Greater Media’s Philadelphia cluster took calls from area listeners and passed along useful information about road closures and safety alerts.

Canton Radio Cares Auction Raises Money and Donations

Five Canton, Ohio, stations held a joint radiothon and auction to aid Hurricane Sandy relief efforts: D A Peterson’s WDJQ-FM and WDPN-AM, Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s WYNT-FM and Next Media Group’s WHBC-FM/AM. According to Radio World, the stations raised over $17,000 for the Red Cross and collected five U-Haul trucks full of donations including clothing, diapers, blankets and food. After the radiothon, the five trucks caravanned to Long Island, where the National Guard unloaded and distributed the goods.

CBS Minnesota Collects $185,000+ for Red Cross Efforts

CBS-owned Minneapolis, Minn., stations WCCO-TV, WCCO-AM, KMNB-FM and KZJK-FM held a 13-hour fundraiser at the Mall of America on November 8 to support victims of Hurricane Sandy. All donations benefited the relief efforts coordinated by the America Red Cross. In total, the fundraiser raised more than $185,700.

Philly’s WCAU-TV Swiftly Sets Up Red Cross Phone Bank

ABC’s WPVI-TV Philadelphia sent a two-person team and a mobile generator to five Philadelphia and South Jersey towns without power. The "POWER by 6abc STATION" had a 500-amp generator with 60,000 watts of power with 25 20-amp circuits. This type of generator is generally used on movie and television production sets. "The POWER by 6abc STATIONS gave phones and laptops a charge, but more importantly, it boosted morale," WPVI-TV’s Michael Monsell told TVNewsCheck. "One young boy came out to play guitar for his neighbors while others just exchanged stories about their week. The sense of community that came from our charging stations was overwhelming." WPVI-TV also held a fundraiser to benefit the American Red Cross.

XIA-TV Helps Atlanta School Collect Supplies After Tornado

Gannett Broadcasting’s WXIA-TV Atlanta immediately answered Paulding County’s Poole Elementary School’s call for help after tornadoes destroyed part of the building, leaving a damaged roof and limited supplies for students. WXIA-TV broadcast live from the school and encouraged viewers to come by and drop off school supplies. Gannett Broadcasting donated $5,000 to Poole Elementary to assist the school in its recovery. Click here to see video from the event.

Greater Media-Owned East Coast Stations Support Locals in Need

Greater Media’s WDHA-FM and WMTR-AM Cedar Knolls, N.J., held donation drives with the American Red Cross for food and clothing and the Animal Response Commission to collect pet donations. Both stations created volunteer and donation webpages, providing information about ways to donate to relief efforts. Greater Media’s WJRZ-FM Manahawkin, New Jersey staff spent several days after the storm collecting donations for the Ocean County Hunger Relief and the Jersey Shore Animal Center. The Ocean County Hunger Relief coordinated with all the local shelters to deliver donated food.

St. Louis Station Provides Life Life Tornado Coverage

One year ago, a devastating tornado in Joplin, Mo. killed 161 people, destroyed buildings and tossed debris 70 miles. Radio delivered lifesaving information to citizens during the disaster and responded quickly to help rebuild Joplin.

Zimmer Radio’s KZRG-AM organized a Day of Unity to recognize the tornado’s anniversary. Nearly 6,000 people joined station staff for a 3.5-mile walk along the tornado’s path. Around 8,500 people, including Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, gathered in the rebuilt Cunningham Park to honor the 161 residents who died. Nationally syndicated radio and TV host Clark Howard covered the tornado live last year for a local television station; on the one year anniversary of the tornado, he broadcast from a Habitat for Humanity site in Joplin where he helped build a home. Cox Media’s KRMG-FM in nearby Tulsa, OK provided $35,000 to support the Habitat build. "As for Joplin, this build will take a while. But this town is coming back and as the walls go up, hope returns to the citizens of Joplin," said Howard.

Illinois Broadcasters Association Launches "Giving Tuesday"

The Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA) launched "Giving Tuesday," an effort supported by more than 200 radio and television stations across Illinois to benefit the American Red Cross’ Hurricane Sandy relief efforts and "future needs." The IBA Board of Directors passed a resolution to make November 27, "Giving Tuesday," a day of donations to support continued Red Cross relief efforts across Illinois.

New Jersey Station Aids Governor’s Hurricane Relief Fund

src="http://www.nab.org/documents/newsRoom/photos/LTSSandyRelief/christie.jpg" width="120" height="72" border="0" align="right" /> Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM Trenton, N.J., is collaborating with Governor Chris Christie and his wife Mary Pat on the couple’s Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief fund. The station is promoting the fund on-air and working with Christie and his wife to collect donations for the charity, which will help rebuild hard hit areas and aims to keep the money raised within the state.

Philly’s WCAU-TV Swiftly Sets Up Red Cross Phone Bank

Fox Television’s WTXF-TV Philadelphia and Greater Media’s WMMR-FM Philadelphia collected food and other supplies for Sandy victims at Xfinity Live!, a major entertainment and dining complex in Philadelphia. All donations were distributed by The Salvation Army. Collected items included bottled water, juice, snacks, wrapped snacks, batteries, toiletries and gift cards to Wal-Mart.

CBS Philadelphia Cluster Offers Tickets for Red Cross Donations

CBS Radio’s Philadelphia stations, including WIP-AM/FM, WPHT-AM, KYW-AM and WOGL-FM teamed up with concert promoter Live Nation to raise money for the American Red Cross. The CBS-owned stations provided a pair of tickets to the Bob Dylan/Mark Knopfler concert on November 19 to listeners who donated at least $20 to the American Red Cross.

Allbritton’s Harrisburg Station Helps Those Affected by Tragedy

Allbritton-owned WHTM-TV Harrisburg and Mission Central joined forces in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy to coordinate a drive to collect items for storm victims in New Jersey. Operation Sandy Relief raised over $30,000 in cash donations and more than 40,000 pounds of new items, including coats, blankets, socks, diapers, batteries and toys. "Viewers stepped up quickly and generously to help our neighbors in New Jersey," explained WHTM-TV President and General Manager Joe Lewin. "This is just one example of how our local community can work together to make a difference in the lives of those affected by tragedy."

WAWZ-FMPillar of Fire Station Distributes Gift Cards to Sandy Victims

Pillar of Fire-owned WAWZ-FM Zarephath, N.J.’s Station Manager Scott Taylor delivered gift cards to Staten Island churches to assist in Hurricane Sandy relief efforts during the holiday season. For the past two months, the station has been collecting gift cards and distributing them to their network of churches located in the areas hardest hit by the storm.

Long Island Host Refuses to Let Sandy Make Her Miss a Show

Cox Media’s WBLI-FM West Babylon, NY’s morning host Dana Dinato’s street was flooded and closed, but according to an All Access interview with WBLI-FM’s program director, Jeremy Rice, Dinato said, "’Screw that,’ and drove through the roadblocks to do a 5 and 11 a.m. [show]. It was a stellar show! The phoners were amazing." In the storm’s wake, WBLI-FM used its twitter page to keep listeners informed with emergency updates and locations for food, water and other supplies.

Clear Channel’s WHTZ-FM Receives Recognition for Coverage

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s WHTZ-FM received accolades in RadioInfo from radio consultant and Manhattan resident Walter Sabo: "Z-100 [WHTZ-FM] provided blocks of about 20-25 minutes of really important information, the stuff people need to know, followed by a top five song. Then when the song was over, they went right back into providing the information I needed for me and my family: transportation updates, health concerns, school and road closings, and safety guidance for another 20 minutes or so. It wasn’t long-winded, superfluous filler, but rather vital facts and stuff people could use."

Emmis’s WQHT-FM Donates Items to New York Area Shelters

Following the hurricane, Emmis-owned WQHT-FM New York delivered aid to victims of the storm throughout the metropolitan area. WQHT-FM delivered clothing, HD radios, blankets and other items to shelters in New York City, Long Island and New Jersey.

Townsquare Media’s New Jersey Stations Want to Restore the Shore

Townsquare Media’s South Jersey stations provided in-depth, live storm coverage and post storm updates. WENJ-FM anchors Mike Gill and Todd Ranck braved the storm to produce a live video from the New Jersey Shore, despite evacuations. Sister station WSJO-FM broadcast hurricane coverage and provided a live, interactive blog and Twitter feeds to connect with listeners during the storm. After Sandy passed, WENJ-FM continued to provide updates on possible water shortages, while WSJO-FM’s "Restore the Shore" effort helped to promote the relief efforts underway throughout the region.

Governor Christie Addresses WKXW-FM Listeners During Storm

Governor Chris Christie visited Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM Trenton after Hurricane Sandy made landfall in New Jersey. During WKXW-FM’s regular "Ask the Governor" segment, Christie told listeners that the state was taking a beating. The governor explained on Monday, "So far at least, a good portion of the state has been spared some of the worst of what we thought. But the Jersey Shore has really taken a beating, and is going to continue taking a beating tonight and into the evening."

NJBA President Says Broadcasters Were Superb During Sandy

The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) held the Celebrity Golf Tournament at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ to support broadcasters in need. More than 150 broadcasters and celebrities participated in the event, which raised more than $200,000. This year, the BFOA expects to distribute $700,000 in assistance. The Celebrity Golf Tournament is one of the Foundation’s biggest annual fundraisers.

AP Reporter Explains How NY Radio Served as a Lifeline

This video from a PBS Newshour interview between Judy Woodruff and the Associated Press’s Warren Levinson confirms David Donovan’s statement. At minute 10:45, Levinson says, "I was over by the big substation that went out on East 14th Street this morning. And people didn’t have television. They didn’t have Internet. And somebody had taken his big portable radio and put it on the second floor in his window when the governor was giving a briefing. And you had a knot of people, like a semicircle of people, standing around it listening for what’s the latest information."

NY Radio Stations Make It Work When Sandy Impacted Service

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s WALK-AM/FM operated from the Suffolk County Emergency Management Center after being forced to evacuate. AM stations affected by floods shifted news to FM stations or partnered with local TV stations, including CBS owned WINS-AM, New York Public Radio’s WNYC-AM and Radio Disney Group’s WEPN-AM/FM. Buckley Radio’s WOR-AM stayed on-air and partnered with WNBC-TV.

WTOP-FM Sees Huge Traffic on Station Website During Sandy

Hubbard’s WTOP-FM Washington was a key source of information before Sandy even came ashore. On Sunday before the storm, WTOP.com had over two million page views by 280,000 unique users looking for storm coverage. During the hurricane, on Monday, that number jumped to nearly three million page views from 335,000 unique users.

WJLA-TV Expands Storm Coverage to 24-Hour News Channel

Allbritton’s WJLA-TV Washington utilized its joint news operation, NewsChannel 8, the regional cable news channel, to provide 24-hour coverage of Hurricane Sandy. On WJLA-TV, the station provided weather cut-ins every half hour, extended the midday news to an hour and aired a special afternoon newscast. Extensive storm coverage was also available on WJLA-TV’s website.

Gannett’s WUSA-TV Goes Wall-To-Wall With Sandy Coverage

Gannett’s WUSA-TV provided wall-to-wall storm coverage and served as a huge support for a local family after their power went off during the hurricane. A viewer in Clifton, VA, whose husband Steve has ALS, wrote to WUSA-TV to ask for help. The power had gone off, and Steve, who, relies on a ventilator to breathe, was at great risk with only limited generator power. WUSA-TV went to the viewer’s home and helped them contact the local power company. With WUSA-TV’s support, the power was quickly turned on. Click here to watch video of the event.

All Hands on Deck: WBOC-TV GM Mans the Camera to Cover Sandy

Independently-owned WBOC-TV Salisbury, Maryland’s vice president and general manager, Craig Jahelka, told B&C that it was all hands on deck at his station when Sandy blew through the East Coast. Jahelka admitted even he manned the camera for a few hours during the storm. WBOC-TV partnered with Clear Channel Radio and Delmarva Public Radio to simulcast storm coverage on the radio. WBOC-TV, for the first time, provided continuous hurricane news on its smartphone app. Once the storm cleared, WBOC-TV also used the station’s helicopter to survey the damage. Details on road closures, Red Cross efforts and requests for volunteers can be found on the station’s special Sandy section of the website and on the smartphone app.

WRC-TV Taps Reporters to Cover Storm From Local Beaches

NBC-owned WRC-TV Washington provided local storm coverage from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m. on Monday before airing the first half hour of Today. WRC-TV returned to local coverage at 7:30 a.m. and remained on air through the late evening. Several of WRC-TV’s reporters broadcast live from nearby Delaware beaches, including reporter Wendy Rieger. Click here to watch video from Rieger’s coverage.

WTTG-TV Provides Round-The-Clock Hurricane News

Fox Television-owned WTTG-TV Washington broadcast wall-to-wall hurricane coverage on Monday beginning at 4 a.m. and into Tuesday. Crews were stationed in several low lying areas including Annapolis and Alexandria, and throughout the Washington metropolitan area.

Philadelphia Reporter Risked Dangerous Tides to Cover Sandy

Fox’s WTXF-TV Philadelphia anchor Stephanie Esposito broadcast live in Ocean City, NJ during high tide, as Hurricane Sandy came ashore. She covered the area despite evacuations caused by dangerous wires and dangerous debris floating in the floodwaters. WTFX-TV’s weather-related edition of Good Day Philadelphia included interviews with Mayor Michael Nutter, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett and Delaware Governor Jack Markell.

WTVY-TV Provide Crucial Information During Tornado

When a deadly tornado hit a high school and elementary school in Enterprise in March 2007, WTVY-TV in Dothan, Ala. diverted its news crews and reached the scene within 10 minutes of the twister touchdown. As a first informer, their live coverage was critical in keeping the community informed. In addition to providing information to parents on where to pick up their children when schools began closing earlier in the day, WTVY provided wall-to-wall coverage throughout the afternoon as the severe weather grew. Key information broadcast to viewers throughout the affected area included power outage notification and instructions on where to get water, how to volunteer and where to give blood. In the days following, the station provided extended coverage, including live broadcasts of visits from Gov. Bob Riley and President George W. Bush to the damaged area. In the aftermath, the station remained a main source of news about disaster relief efforts.

KABC-AM Hosts Wildfire Relief Fundraiser

When wildfires in the southern part of the state devastated more than a thousand homes and burned hundreds of thousands of acres, KABC-AM in Los Angeles, Calif., immediately responded to the crisis, partnering with sister station KLOS-FM and KABC-TV to organize the first media relief fundraiser. The "drive-by" event was held at three separate locations on one day. On-air personalities greeted and interviewed donors at their cars during the 14-hour live broadcast. The KABC Web site linked to all area Red Cross chapters and the National American Red Cross set up a special link on the KABC Web site so listeners could donate any time of day or night. Station staff gave 288 hours to the effort, which raised $4.5 million from individual and corporate sponsors for the victims of the fire. "As the first of our media partners to recognize the immediate need to help affected families, KABC served as the catalyst to jumpstart a series of collaborative fund drives," said Paul Schulz , chief executive officer of the Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles, in a letter to the station. "In addition to collecting funds, KABC played an integral role in helping us tell the Red Cross story, communicating to victims and the public." KABC was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.

WXII-TV Provides Lifesaving Information

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Chief meteorologist Lane Pope of WXII-TV in Salem, N.C., provided viewers with lifesaving information prior to tornadoes striking in the heart of the station’s viewing area. Two-and-a-half hours into broadcasting emergency weather warnings, the urgency in her voice was unmistakable. "If you’re in Clemmons, folks, this is headed for you. You need to find a safe place." Throughout the ordeal, WXII stayed on the air with16 hours of live severe weather coverage, which also was streamed online. As the storms passed, the station’s effort shifted from forecasting to damage assessment. Even before sunrise, the WXII news team was in neighborhoods broadcasting witness accounts of what had occurred. By marshaling additional resources from nearby WYFF-TV, the station was able to bring viewers live helicopter coverage of the aftermath. While it is impossible to put a number on the lives that were potentially saved, many people in the community have contacted the station with words of appreciation for providing information that ultimately got them to safety. Both Pope and the WXII news team were recognized by the Forsyth County Commissioners for their work in the face of the crisis. The commissioners praised Pope and other first responders for "their excellent and timely work on the evening of May 8, 2008, and the valuable role they play in protecting the lives of our citizens."

WGAN-AM Provides Critical Storm Coverage

On Patriot’s Day, when a storm led to flooding and the loss of power for 100,000 people, WGAN-AM in South Portland, Maine, provided its listeners with constant updates. The station sent its "Road Patrol" out into different counties to report back on conditions. Traffic reports were expanded and extended throughout the heavy downpour, as was news on flooding and emergency advisories. Extra staff came in to the station to answer calls and help ensure all information about closings was announced on air. As the station broadcast new information, it updated its Web site as well. "This kind of work is where radio is really important," said WGAN News Director Jeff Wade. "People lost power and needed a place to turn to." When the 24-hour storm subsided, WGAN focused its broadcasts on recovery efforts, directing listeners to resources for aid and providing information on road repairs.

KTTS-FM Airs Lifeline Storm Coverage

When a storm hit the area, leaving inches of ice on power lines and 300,000 people without power for days and even weeks,KTTS-FM in Springfield, Mo., was on the air throughout the ordeal. With listeners phoning in tips, the station was able to tell listeners where to get lanterns, batteries, emergency shelter, free food, candles, firewood, propane and gas cans, as well as hotline numbers for emergency management units and electric companies. When the station began hearing of a kerosene shortage and price-gouging, KTTS partnered with locally owned Preston Oil to send a tanker filled with kerosene on the road to areas hardest hit by the storm. Carloads of listeners went to the "kerosene caravan" for help. In addition to sending staff to the caravan stops, the news team tirelessly worked to get information from area utility companies and emergency management teams, while station engineers struggled to keep ice off the radio towers. The on-air personalities answered hundreds of phone calls and worked by flashlight and candlelight. The lifeline provided by the station is best articulated by its listeners. "Our twin babies and other four children huddled with us around the fireplace while we listed to your awesome up-to-date broadcasting about this storm," the Sawyer family wrote in a letter to the station. "KTTS kept us going … you, the on-air broadcasters, have brought listening to the radio down to an even more personal level. Thank you so much for everything you do every day as you continue to impact lives through the radio waves."

WXMA-FM Covers Derailed Train

When a train derailed in January 2007 causing one of the biggest railway fires in the state’s history, WXMA-FM in Louisville, Ky., immediately broke into programming with live reports. The 12 train cars involved in the wreck contained flammable liquid, gases and accelerant compounds, which created a hazardous fire visible from 2 miles away. Authorities shut down an 18-mile stretch of Interstate 65. During the emergency, the station interviewed representatives from the American Red Cross, police and eyewitnesses. On the days following, the morning show conducted five interviews with local Red Cross officials and used live talk to solicit donations to aid the relief effort. Headline articles were posted on the station’s Web site, as well as details on how to help. WXMA’s efforts resulted in more than a hundred people volunteering to help in the first days of the disaster and $70,000 in contributions.

Local Radio Airs Critical Emergency Information

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On August 18, 2007, when 17 inches of rain caused roads and bridges to collapse and rail and telephone services to shut down, KAGE-AM/FM, KWNO-AM/FM and KHME-FM in Winona, Minn., simulcast emergency reports throughout the night. When local emergency workers called at 10 p.m. to say Garvin Brook and Rush Creek were rising and shelters were being set up, the Winona Radio cluster began broadcasting evacuation information. The next morning, on-the-scene news reports from the flooded communities alerted listeners to the extent of the damage. Intensive news coverage, interviews and public service announcements continued for four months. The stations worked to inform those affected by the flood on where to get help, to recruit volunteers and to get the word out about applying for government aid programs. "FEMA and Homeland Security personnel came for so many interviews they had their own coffee cups at the studios," said owner Jerry Papenfuss. To date, the stations have aired more than 500 news stories related to the flood. Recovery in the area continues with the rebuilding of homes and businesses.

KCSR-AM Helps Erect Monument to Firefighter

Recently, KCSR-AM in Chadron, Neb., gave the proceeds raised from the "Dawes/ Sioux County Fire Video" they created to erect a monument to the fireman who helped keep their community safe in August 2006. The video involved a seven-month campaign, with heavy mentions during morning talk shows, press releases, anniversary news coverage, fire prevention broadcasts, online promotions and in-person talks about the station’s fire coverage. Back in 2006, when temperatures reached 108 degrees with humidity in the teens, fire broke out in King’s Canyon. As evacuations began, the radio station became a lifeline for the small community that only has a weekly newspaper. "All 12 employees at our station became news people," recalled station owner Dennis Brown. "We came to work Friday morning and didn’t leave until Monday night." The employees slept at the station, providing information around the clock. They went to each part of town to find out what people needed, then made on-air announcements and coordinated getting supplies to all areas. Photos posted on the station Web site helped the forest service get the equipment they needed sent in from another state. Although three houses were lost, there were no fatalities. "We did our job," said Brown. "And I’m not afraid to brag."

KWON-AM Provides Critical Assistance After Flood

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When summer rainfall totaled five times the average and resulted in record-breaking flooding, KWON-AM in Bartlesville, Okla., immediately began providing critical assistance to its town of 40,000. With homes and roads underwater, listeners needed up-to-date and immediate information. During the cresting flood waters, the news director, general manager and Web master camped out on the station floor, answering calls and providing continual updates. The station broadcast and rebroadcast road closures, emergency numbers and disaster resource information. When flood waters threatened to spilt the city in half, the KWON mobile unit parked on the side of the river opposite the studio so listeners could continue to receive news about both sides of Bartlesville. For more than a week, the Washington County Emergency Team, of which the station is a member, gathered to strategize relief efforts. The station let listeners know how to safely re-enter flooded buildings, clean up contaminated structures and where to get bottled water. Business closures and event cancellations were constantly updated. One woman said KWON broadcast information about the closure of her office before she received the corporate email. All on-air information was posted simultaneously on the station Web site, and the station produced a tutorial to help those who were not Internet savvy. KWON has earned the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters’ Non-Metro Station of the Year award four out of the last seven years and believes the coverage of the flood to be its "strongest moment."

KAST-AM Provides Community Lifeline During Hurricane

When hurricane-class winds slammed into the region, killing two and causing damage in excess of $25 million, KAST-AM in Astoria, Ore., provided a lifeline to its community. Two days prior, the station readied generators, set up broadcast redundancies and prepared its listeners with more than 40 hours of reporting about the storm to come. When the storm hit, KAST staff literally fought through the rain and high winds to keep the power on. The station established a 24-hour commercial-free rotation to ensure listeners would receive the latest information. As one of the few stations to remain on air, emergency response groups, government officials and public works employees all used KAST to communicate information about food, shelter, health needs, assistance and volunteer efforts. For days after the storm, the station was still broadcasting information and taking calls to help listeners learn about available aid. Weeks later, when the storm’s immediate effects had passed, KAST continued its storm recovery efforts by working with a local charity, The Wishing Tree. Hours of programming were dedicated to gathering food, toys and gifts to ensure children and families were still able to have Christmas after the storm. In total, KAST provided more than 285 hours of airtime to help its community prepare, survive and recover.

WYFF-TV Helps Community Mourn Loss of Life

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In October 2007, when a beach house fire claimed the lives of seven college students from the state, four of whom were from the immediate area, WYFF-TV in Greenville, S.C., immediately began airing information to help their community cope with the situation. Breaking news coverage started with aerial shots of the crisis and continued for a week with extended news coverage online. The station broadcast the University of South Carolina vigil services live to help viewers share in the grieving process. "The loss rocked the four mid-sized areas that our station covers," said WYFF President and General Manager Michael Hayes. Months after the fire, WYFF continues to provide information to help the community heal, including an exclusive interview with the parents of fire victim Lauren Mahon about their grieving process. WYFF was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Service to America Award winner in 2008.

KBRK-AM Collects Supplies for Neighboring Town

With the help of its listeners, KBRK-AM, Brookings, S.D., delivered much needed aid to the neighboring city of Aberdeen after an intense downpour brought more than 10 inches of rain and flooded the area. More than three-quarters of Aberdeen homes were affected, creating a high demand for cleaning supplies, rubber boots and jackets. KBRK quickly organized a flood bucket drive, airing 150 public service announcements asking listeners to help and listing needed items on the station’s Web site. Rising to the occasion, the community brought 250 flood buckets filled with supplies to the station’s parking lot. KBRK General Manger Cami Powers personally drove a moving truck filled with the donations to the Red Cross office in Aberdeen.

WEEN-AM and WLCT-FM Broadcast During Tornado

When tornados ripped through Macon County and killed 13 people in 2007, WEEN-AM and WLCT-FM of Lafayette, Tenn., quickly got back on the air and immediately began broadcasting emergency information that was instrumental in helping police, emergency officials and families in need of assistance. Because of the devastation, 90 people in the area were still unaccounted for three days after the tornados hit. At 8 a.m., the stations began reading the names of those missing, and two hours later, 80 were reunited with their families and friends. By 1 p.m., all 90 people had been found, saving emergency rescue crews and officials countless hours that could now be redirected toward recovery and other aid efforts. The quick work by the stations also saved the families from incredible stress and worry. According to Jill Green from the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters, "this wonderful effort by one of our long standing member stations makes us proud."

KING-TV Provides Coverage Through Devastating Storm

When a devastating windstorm battered the state, KING-TV in Seattle, Wash., was able to stay on the air, providing up-to-the-minute weather information, safety tips and emergency contact information for all its viewers. The windstorm was the state’s worst in 13 years, affecting 19 counties and causing tens of millions of dollars in damage to homes, parks, roads and businesses. Throughout the crisis, KING provided continuous coverage both on television and online. The station provided video of the damage and acted as an informational clearinghouse on where to seek relief, how to report damage and where to turn for aid. "When reporters and photographers are working in horrible winds with frigid temperatures, they know that what they’re doing is making a difference," said Pat Costello, vice president of news for KING.

KKMO-AM Helps Prepare Listeners for Earthquakes

With frequent earthquakes occurring in the Puget Sound area, KKMO-AM in Tacoma, Wash., a Spanish-language station, wanted to make sure people were prepared. The station partnered with the Red Cross to compile and distribute more than 300 earthquake survival kits to people in the Hispanic community. The Red Cross had some of the kit elements available, and the station worked with its contacts to secure the donation of the additional items needed. The kit included necessities for a family of four to get through several days in the event of a natural disaster. During the two-month campaign, the station aired broadcasts from several remotes related to the distribution of kits, as well as public service announcements and discussion segments about earthquake awareness and preparedness.

WDGG-FM Honors Firefighters, Victims of Fire

When an apartment building fire killed nine people and left hundreds of residents without belongings or a place to stay, WDGG-FM in Huntington, W.Va., organized a dinner that brought the community together to honor the firefighters who responded to the emergency and to raise money for the victims. The station worked with a local church to secure food and other items for the event, making it possible for 100 percent of the proceeds to go to those recovering from the crisis. "This is a small town not used to battling fires," said WDGG’s Mike Kirtner. "The community needed help, and we were able to provide it." The station started airing recorded promotions and live mentions of the fundraiser two days after the fire. Six-hundred community members, including the mayor, attended. At the dinner, 20 fire departments received a plaque thanking them for their service and more than $60,000 was raised for the victims of the fire.

KNOX-AM Provides Emergency Tornado Coverage

When a devastating tornado hit the neighboring community of Northwood on August 26, 2007, KNOX-AM in Grand Forks, N.D., was on the air giving emergency information and frequent news updates through the night. After the tornado, KNOX staff traveled by helicopter to report back on the disaster area. Efforts then turned to helping the community of Northwood recover. For nearly three weeks, KNOX was on location at various community hot spots around Grand Forks and East Grand Forks with their "Nickels for Northwood Ridgeline," asking listeners to throw spare change in the truck bed to raise disaster relief funds. KNOX also worked with area businesses, which donated a portion of their sales while the "Nickels for Norwood" vehicle was at their location. The event was supported with 500 30-second promotional spots, at least one live mention per hour each day of the relief drive, a two-hour live broadcast from each of the "Nickels for Northwood" locations and more than 110 staff hours. KNOX raised nearly $19,000 for the Northwood Relief Fund, one of the largest monetary donations made to the fund by a Grand Forks business. KNOX was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.

KLGT-FM and KBBS-AM Provide Crucial Storm News

It was a Memorial Day weekend that required 5,000 sandbags, and KLGT-FM and KBBS-AM in Buffalo, Wyo., broke from their format from evening to early morning to bring listeners continual information on the high waters and flooding. Through the stations, the county commissioner’s office, city planner and fire department got crucial flood warnings to the community. “They were instrumental in keeping the community advised,” said Fire Chief Wes Johnson. Additional staff came into the studio to help answer the deluge of calls from those needing aid. Listeners tuned in to the two stations knew where sandbag trucks making deliveries throughout the community were going to be at any given time. The stations kept contact with emergency responders to keep information up-to-date. “We coordinated with the fire chief all night,” said KLGT’s Smokey Wildeman. “It is really crucial to have the right information.”

KATV-TV Raises $480,000 for Tornado Relief

When disaster strikes, KATV-TV in Little Rock, Ark., activates its "Neighbor in Need" relief fund to help its community recover. Through public service announcements and news stories, KATV asks viewers to extend a helping hand to those hit hardest by the crisis at hand. The station uses its phone bank facilities to collect donations. Originally created to provide aid to those affected by Hurricane Katrina who relocated to Arkansas, the fund has been activated several times since 2005 in response to severe weather. In February 2008, storms wreaked havoc across the state, and the community responded by donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to the fund. When killer twisters touched down in April 2008, viewers once again gave generously to help their fellow Arkansans, and KATV kick-started the giving with a $5,000 donation of its own. In the past year alone, more than $480,000 has been raised for the fund, all of which was given to the local Red Cross to further its efforts to provide aid to those affected by the flooding and tornadoes.

KWWL-TV Waterloo Organizes Tornado Relief Fundraiser

When tornadoes devastated northeast Iowa in the spring of 2008, killing seven people and flattening hundreds of homes, KWWL-TV in Waterloo, Iowa, responded by organizing a "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" disaster relief drive. The one-day fundraiser began at 5 a.m. the day after the storm and by 10 p.m., Eastern Iowans had contributed more than $335,000 to help survivors in the aftermath. Donations poured in throughout the day by phone, online and "drive-through" style in the parking lot of the KWWL studio. A half-hour telethon special in the evening featured Gov. Chet Culver, who thanked the station for its fundraising efforts on the air. Money raised went to the Hawkeye Chapter of the American Red Cross, a lead organization in recovery efforts. "Pulling this off in less than 24 hours was a challenge, but the incredible response made all of the work worthwhile," said Jon Okerstrom, KWWL news director. "Storm survivors were coming up to our crews thanking them for what we were doing."

KAIT-TV Provides Lifeline Information During Tornado

When a series of deadly tornadoes hit the South on Super Tuesday, broadcasters across the region provided a lifeline to their viewers and listeners, including KAIT-TV in Jonesboro, Ark. The station started with breaking weather coverage before the tornados hit and brought in a satellite from Shreveport, La., so live coverage could continue for the days following the destruction. Across the state, 13 people lost their lives. Homes and buildings were devastated. Within 48 hours of the storm, KAIT teamed with Jonesboro radio stations KDXY-FM, KEGI-FM and KJBX-FM to get relief to those who needed it. In a single day, the stations rallied the community to donate 40 pickup trucks and four trailers worth of supplies. The minute a vehicle was filled, it left for delivery. The stations broadcast live cut-ins during the drive and raised an additional $30,000, which was given to the American Red Cross Tornado Relief Fund.

WNNJ-FM Provides Lifeline Storm Coverage

In a community where nearly seven out of every 10 residents commute out of the county for work, the up-to-date weather and road condition information provided by WNNJ-FM in Newton, N.J., is crucial. In late 2007, winter brought nearly a dozen snow days. Emergency generators, along with a team of dedicated engineers who fought off severe icing, kept the station on the air the entire time. When the station lost its heat, staff put on additional sweaters and continued to get information out about the status of the areas many two-lane roads and business and school closures. Local police, fire and emergency officials use the station to get needed information to all residents throughout the winter season.

KRMG-AM Provides Continuous Coverage During Severe Weather

When a December ice storm left more than a quarter of a million people without power, listeners tuned their battery-operated radios to KRMG-AM in Tulsa, Okla., which stayed on the air with five days of continuous weather coverage and updates. The station directed people where to get food and shelter. Interviews with emergency officials and leaders reminded Tulsans that help was on the way. Phones at the station rang nonstop with questions about necessities. Many callers needed firewood, and when KRMG was able to secure enough firewood, the station gave it away free. From a parking lot, station staff loaded wood by the armful into the cars of hundreds of families needing a means to heat their home. KRMG was honored with the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Community Service Award for its coverage and service during the 2007 storm.

WMC-TV Assist with Tornado Recovery

When dozens of viewers’ homes were hit by a tornado in February 2008, WMC-TV in Memphis, Tenn., stepped up to help the families recover from the storm. The morning after the catastrophic weather, WMC launched the "Action News 5 Helping Neighbors" fundraiser in partnership with the Mid-South Chapter of the American Red Cross. The campaign kicked off with a day-long event at two locations close to the damaged area with live cut-ins at the top and bottom of each hour. At the event, the station also provided free weather radio programming to protect viewers from future storms, a service WMC offers to local residents year-round at the station. News coverage and public service announcements helped raise awareness about the effort and directed the community to the Red Cross phone bank to make pledges. The effort raised thousands of dollars for local victims. A short four months later, when tornadoes hit the towns of Earle, Arkansas and New Albany, Mississippi, WMC-TV quickly organized efforts again, this time holding a one-hour telethon. The live special brought viewers the very personal and human side of the story, providing firsthand accounts of the destruction and interviews with the Red Cross about what was needed for recovery. Viewers were once again directly to the Red Cross phone bank where they generously gave to their neighbors.

Stations Provide Coverage of Hurricane Ike

Television and radio stations joined together to provide timely and lifesaving information as Hurricane Ike ravaged the Texas coast. KPRC-TV, KHOU-TV, KTRK-TV, KRIV-TV, KRBE-FM and KUHF-FM in Houston, Texas, provided crucial wall-to-wall storm coverage leading up to Ike and in the recovery phase following the devastation. Stations broadcast continuously throughout the week, with some staff working 12-hour shifts or more. In addition to working overtime, stations implemented new technology to report on location from the Galveston seawall during serious power outages. Storm coverage took precedent over stations’ regularly scheduled programming as the stations worked to keep Houstonians informed and safe. As people lost power, local radio stations picked up KHOU’s signal and continued its broadcast. KHOU reporters described the broadcast picture to listeners to make sure they knew what to expect as the hurricane picked up speed and made landfall. The stations’ Web sites also proved critical in keeping the community informed and provided a global audience with live streams of hurricane coverage.

KFGO-AM and WZFG-AM Stay on Air During Flood

When the water in the Red River rose past flood levels, KFGO-AM and WZFG-AM in Fargo, N.D. , became heroes to their local listeners. Determined to stay on the air, KFGO protected its facilities with sandbags and a newly built dike. Also remaining on air for a consecutive 24 hours, WZFG dropped regular programming to broadcast updates under FCC emergency rules. Through keeping their broadcast signal on throughout the disaster, the stations were able to provide listeners with lifesaving information.

WDSU-TV Acts as Lifeline During Hurricane Katrina

When the devastation of Hurricane Katrina shook the residents of Louisiana, WDSU-TV in New Orleans, La., took serious measures to ensure their community was as prepared as possible for future storms. When Hurricane Gustav made its way to the Gulf Coast, the station knew what to do. In preparation for the storm and in its aftermath, the station went commercial free with their coverage. President and General Manager, Joel Vilmenay, made the call because he still has staff working for him who has been there since Katrina hit three years ago and they have memories still fresh in their minds. One of the decisions WDSU made post Katrina was to permanently establish a bureau in Baton Rouge which acts as a secondary position for the station if it is needed. Still, as a precaution, the station rebuilt its transmitter platform at 27 feet above sea level to protect it from flood damage, equipped with a generator and fuel to run it for just over two weeks without the help of outside power. They also provided their staff with satellite phones, text-capable cell phones, spare tires, first-aid kits, food and water.

Alabma Stations Provides Lifeline Storm Coverage

The New York Times recognized one Birmingham station, Allbritton’s WBMA-TV, for its live coverage. The local ABC affiliate’s veteran Meteorologist James Spann covered the mile-wide tornado as it approached his viewing area. The Times noted that following the storm Spann received hundreds of comments on his Facebook page. One viewer wrote, "I have no doubt that you saved too many lives to count." New Vision Media-owned WIAT-TV’s chief meteorologist Mark Prater also covered the storm for Birmingham’s CBS affiliate. The Times reported Prater relied on traffic cameras and other video sources to keep his viewers informed as the twister plowed through parts of Alabama.
Some broadcasters used their online outlets to inform viewers. Garry Kelly, news director of Allbritton-owned WCFT-TV, the ABC affiliate in Tuscaloosa, Birmingham and Anniston said his station "did several reports via Skype, several where our reporter was in the field and literally did a live report through smart phone."

As power went out throughout the region, some television stations relied on local radio stations to continue covering the tornado. TVNewsCheck interviewed Sarkes Tarzian-owned WRCB-TV Chattanooga’s news director Derrall Stalvey who noted, "When the area started losing power, we were simulcasting on our radio partner WUSY-FM. That was how most people were getting information – battery-operated. That really saved a lot of lives."
Cox Broadcasting’s WAGG-AM, WBHK-FM, WENN-FM and WBHJ-FM Birmingham tracked the storm and stayed on the air throughout the night providing emergency info, opening phone lines, directing rescue teams to the injured, and helping to locate missing people. Cox stations carried live press conferences from Birmingham Mayor William Bell, Gov. Robert Bentley, state FEMA officials and Alabama Power Gas company representatives.
Local broadcasters’ severe weather reporting was so outstanding, Rep. Spencer Bachus, (AL-06), remarked, "I want to congratulate our TV and radio media because you saved many lives." Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley also relied on television broadcasts during the storm. Bentley’s spokeswoman Jennifer Ardis remarked that the governor used television weather radar and live camera feeds to issue storm warnings from the emergency operations center. On May 23, Gov. Bentley signed a commendation thanking Alabama broadcasters for the extensive coverage before, during and after the outbreak of storms that swept through the state.


Numerous stories from the Washington Examiner, The Wall Street Journal, Broadcasting & Cable, Radio Ink, The New York Times and TVNewsCheck discussed the influential role broadcasters played in covering the storm and assisting in the relief efforts in its wake. Additionally, a report from the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) provides a thorough summary of radio and television stations’ outstanding efforts across Alabama.
As communities recover and rebuild, Raycom stations in the affected areas have collectively embarked on a campaign titled Road to Recovery. Road to Recovery delivers critical information on air and online about how to find and provide disaster relief, including how to donate money, blood and other essentials to aid in recovery efforts; how to help children cope with disaster and contact information for local, state and federal agencies providing support.
In addition to providing extended news coverage WBRC-TV aired a special program to help parents talk to their kids about the disaster. The station also gave out 500 free Midland HH-50 portable weather radios to those in need and plans to distribute another thousand.
Media General’s WVTM-TV Birmingham teamed up with the United Way to host a 22-hour tornado relief telethon to support relief efforts for victims. Alabama’s United Way Tornado Relief Telethon raised more than $800,000 as 200 radio and TV stations, websites and other media outlets across the U.S. supported the effort.

Huntsville-based WAFF-TV’s Road to Recovery Valley Volunteer-a-Thon garnered more than 100,000 hours of volunteer time. General Manager Vanessa Oubre pointed out that although many people were unable to donate money, they were more than willing to donate their time to help with recovery and cleanup efforts. "The response to this campaign has been tremendous from our own station staff to community organizations throughout the area," said Oubre.
In addition to collecting nearly $300,000 for the Red Cross, WSFA-TV Montgomery partnered with Life South to collect 553 pints of blood (the equivalent of 1659 lives saved) and also raised $60,000 and more than 70,000 pounds of food for an area food bank.

Hawaii Stations Burn the Midnight Oil Covering the Islands’ Recent Tsunami

Earlier this month, the earthquake that hit the coast of Japan created a tsunami that threatened areas across the Pacific Ocean, and as far away as Hawaii. Throughout the tsunami, Honolulu broadcasters became round-the-clock news channels. Raycom Media’s NBC affiliate KHNL-TV, Hearst-Argyle’s ABC affiliate KITV-TV and Emmis Communications’ CBS affiliate KGMB extended their news coverage, providing constant live tsunami updates. Radio stations across Hawaii also provided wall-to-wall alerts. Throughout the tsunami, broadcasters demonstrated that in times of emergency no other medium delivers timely information as broadly, quickly and inexpensively as broadcasters.

KSL-AM Responds to Mine Collapse

When a mine collapsed in Crandall Canyon tragically taking the life of six miners and, ultimately, three rescue workers, KSL-AM in Salt Lake City, Utah, quickly responded to keep the community informed. Breaking news began on August 6, 2007, and went wall-to-wall through the evening. Reporters from both KSL radio and its sister television station were on the scene interviewing the mayor and emergency responders. The station also shuffled reporters to hospitals in Salt Lake City, as speculation grew on where potential survivors might be flown. As the crisis unfolded, station staff volunteered to work seven-day weeks, allowing for dozens of hours of special news programming, coverage of numerous news conferences during the search effort and nearly 80 additional newscasts. KSL staff continued to report from Emery County for weeks after the tragedy. KSL was a National Association of Broadcasters’ Crystal Award Finalist in 2008.

WJJR-FM Provides Coverage of Blackout

When a nor’easter left the area with all lights out, WJJR-FM in Rutland, Vt., provided its community a voice in the dark. The station broke from its regular format for three days, keeping the community up-to-date until power was restored to homes and businesses. The storm brought strong winds, snow and flooding, taking down thousands of trees and leaving power lines in the streets. WJJR advised listeners of drivable streets and where to get needed supplies, such as kerosene. The mayor, fire chief, police officers and utility companies gave live updates from the station and used airwaves to get safety information out to the public, such as how to avoid stepping on a live wire. Throughout the ordeal, calls came pouring in to the station. WJJR’s Terry Jay took one call from a woman who needed a generator for her husband’s oxygen tank. Within 40 minutes of airing the information, a listener with a generator was en route to her house bringing the power of radio into focus. "There was not one injury, and I think we had something to do with it," said Jay. "This is the reason why we got into radio in the first place."

Broadcasters Provide a Lifeline During Storms, Reach 30+ Rating with Coverage

Last week, as severe storms and tornadoes moved across the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky DMA, the area’s four local broadcast television stations were live on air, commercial free, until nearly 3 a.m. providing weather updates and information to keep their viewers safe. According to Nielsen, between 1 and 2:30 a.m. the four local stations had a combined household ratings of more than 30. To put that in context, more people were awake from 1 to 2:30 a.m. watching weather coverage provided by local broadcasters than would be watching a Sunday afternoon Bengals game. Scripps Television-owned WCPO-TV, Cincinnati’s ABC affiliate, had a household rating of more than 10 between 1 and 2:30 a.m., the second highest rated programming of the day only behind "Dancing With The Stars."

New West Broadcasting Raises $28,000 for Japan Disaster Relief

New West Broadcasting Corporation’s five Hawaii radio stations, KWXX-FM Hilo, KWXX-FM Kona, KNWB-FM Hilo, KMWB-FM Kona and KPUA-AM Hilo, hosted a 12-hour marathon broadcast that raised $28,000 for the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Relief effort. New West employees, along with volunteers from the American Red Cross, the local Waiakea High School and the broader community manned posts outside three KTA Super Stores from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. New West DJs broadcasted live from the grocery stores throughout the day encouraging Big Island residents and visitors to stop by to make a donation to the Relief Fund. "We are so grateful to the New West Broadcasting Corporation for their compassion in this time of great tragedy," said Coralie Chun Matayoshi, CEO American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter. "Their efforts in raising much needed funds for this effort will help us save lives and give hope to those in need."

KPYN-AM Helps Victims of Texas Wild Fires

Freed AM Corp.’s KPYN-AM Atlanta, Texas hosted a five-hour radiothon in September to raise money for victims of the Bear Creek, Texas fire that destroyed over 40,000 acres and 100 area homes. Donations were given to the Community Services of Northeast Texas and distributed to families through the American Red Cross.

WITN-TV Raises FundsFor Hurricane Victims

In North Carolina, Gray Television’s WITN-TV Greenville hosted a fundraiser in partnership with Inner Banks Media and the Red Cross to raise money for hurricane victims in the Greenville-New Bern-Washington region. With its partners, along with a generous donation from Wachovia/Wells Fargo, WITN-TV raised over $320,000 for North Carolina families.

WGNA-FM Raises $30,000 for Hurricane Victims

WGNA-FM Albany Morning Team quickly raised $30,000 for Irene victims. Townsquare Media’s WGNA-FM Albany morning hosts Sean McMaster and Richie Phillips held a 24 hour radiothon at a local mall in addition to collecting donations online. Despite a lack of corporate matching dollars, they raised more than $30,000, tripling the original goal, with contributions ranging in size from $1 to $2,500. WGNA-FM donated the money to the Red Cross of Northeastern New York to aid their effort in providing relief to victims of Hurricane Irene.

WIZM-AM Aids in Flood Recovery

When record flooding claimed lives and property, WIZM-AM in LaCrosse, Wis., organized a community fund drive, which generated more than $395,000 in individual and corporate donations in a single day. The station enlisted the help of all local radio, television and newspapers for the 12-hour event, which provided emergency assistance to area flood victims through the American Red Cross. Shortly after the flood hit, WIZM began airing announcements encouraging listeners to help. A heavy schedule of news stories and interviews highlighted the most urgent needs. On the day of the collection, WIZM personalities filled buckets with monetary donations from the community from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Three remotes featuring donors and volunteers aired every hour throughout the day. The next morning, the station conducted a follow-up interview with the local Red Cross. The relief funds provided shelter, food, water, clean-up supplies and comfort kits to those in need. WIZM was a 2008 National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Award winner.

WSOK-AM and WLVH-FM Hosts Radiothon After Explosion at a Refinery

When an explosion at a sugar refinery killed 13 people and injured 42 others, WSOK-AM and WLVH-FM in Savannah, Ga., held a radiothon to help the families affected by the tragedy. For the community-wide event, the station partnered with the United Way and invited community choirs, musical groups and pastors from all over the city take part. The six-hour live broadcast from St. John’s Baptist Church raised $11,000 for the victims’ families. "This is the way that a community comes together to show support and to show that we care about families that are going through tragedies,” said Gary Young, program director for WSOK and WLVH. “This is our way of giving back and being a part of their family and the entire community."

KZEW-FM and KYCN-AM Provides Information During School Lockdown

When a death threat forced the local high school and an adjacent elementary school to immediately go into lockdown, KZEW-FM and KYCN-AM in Wheatland, Wyo., became a main source of information for frightened parents. For four hours, the station gave continual updates and hosted the superintendent on air several times. Communication with school authorities allowed the stations to share detailed information on what steps were being taken to ensure the students’ safety. When the students were moved to another school to be released to their families, the stations played a key role in getting word to parents. “The stations were our best way of getting information out to the community that the kids were in lockdown,” said Stuart Nelson, superintendent of Platte County School District One. “They did a great job. They kept everybody from panicking.” KZEW was named Small Market Station of the Year by the Wyoming Association of Broadcasters.

KCCR-AM and KLXS-FM Provides Critical Weather Information to Listeners

In a year that brought blizzards, severe summer rains, flooding and storms, listeners relied upon KCCR-AM and KLXS-FM in Pierre, S.D., during times of severe weather. In June 2008, when a notable summer storm brought golf-ball-sized hail, 80-mile-an-hour winds and flooding, the stations broke from regular programming for five hours. On-air personalities Tony Mangan and D.T. Meyer provided crucial information, alerting listeners not to drive in the storm and sharing information from emergency responders. The stations updated their Web sites to reflect information as they received it. Both on the air and at a city commissioner meeting, Mayor Dennis Eisnach publicly thanked the stations for their work in the face of the storm. In a letter to Mangan and Meyer, Eisnach wrote, “I want to thank both of you for all you do for our community, from reporting emergencies to promoting events to educating the public.”

WSTC-AM and WNLK-AM Air Crucial Storm Information

When the first major snowstorm of winter 2007 hit, WSTC-AM and WNLK-AM in Norwalk, Conn., broadcast wall-to-wall coverage for seven hours. As soon as information about road, school and business closures came in, announcements were made on the air and posted on the station Web site. Live interviews were conducted with as many sources of information as possible, including local mayors, the governor and snow plow operators. Updates continued throughout the night, and the station broadcast information about clean-up progress and accident totals the next day during a three-hour live morning show. When a major spring storm brought heavy rains and flooding a few months later, the station responded with extensive coverage again. Situated in an area prone to flooding, listeners count on WSTC and WNLK when storms hit.

Three Dozen Raise $2M for Families Affected by Flooding

Across North Dakota, over thirty radio and television stations recently partnered to host the "Bring Back the Magic" radio and telethon. The statewide fundraiser benefitted flood victims in Minot who lost their homes and possessions when the Souris River overflowed its banks. Together the broadcast stations raised nearly $2 million in donations from listeners and viewers, local, small businesses and corporations.
In another event, Clear Channel’s KFGO-AM Fargo and its affiliated stations, KFYR-AM Bismark and KCJB-AM Minot, auctioned off 10 tickets to the Black Eyed Peas concert at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds. The auction raised more than $6,300 for the Minot Area Recovery Fund to benefit the 11,000 flood victims.

Broadcasters Help Commemorate 10th Anniversary of September 11

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) joined nonprofit organizations MyGoodDeed and the HandsOn Network, Clear Channel Radio and a host of other media organizations to promote the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance, striving to create the single largest day of charitable service in U.S. history. NAB helped to distribute the campaign’s public service announcements (PSAs) to its member broadcasters, while Clear Channel and other stations donated an estimated $15 million worth of free airtime for the spots. The PSAs encouraged viewers and listeners to spend the September 11th anniversary volunteering, reflecting and giving back to their communities.

LIN-Owned WISH-TV Raises $220K in Less Than 24 Hours

LIN Media’s WISH-TV Indianapolis covered the devastating tornadoes that swept through Southern Indiana on Friday, March 2. "The pictures and video in our Friday newscasts demonstrated something needed to be done to help Hoosiers in Southern Indiana," said Jeff White, WISH-TV president and general manager. Saturday morning WISH-TV went into action, launching the "Hoosiers Helping Hoosiers" on-air fund drive during the evening newscast. In less than 24 hours after the storm, viewers raised more than $200,000 for relief efforts.

Pledge Breaks Help Tribune’s WXIN-TV Raise $236K for Tornado

Tribune Broadcasting’s WXIN-TV Indianapolis inserted numerous tornado relief pledge breaks between programming on March 5. Throughout the day station talent and others encouraged viewers to donate to the Salvation Army with Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels lending his support to the cause. The telethon was a success, raising more than $236,000. Lee Rosenthal, WXIN-TV’s news director said the response was attributable to “the Hoosier spirit of compassion. We’re 90 miles away, but you wouldn’t have known it from the response." Click here to watch a video summary of the telethon.

WIBC-FM and WRTV-TV Sponsor Drive-Through Donation Event

Emmis Communications-owned WIBC-FM Indianapolis joined Scripps’ WRTV-TV Indianapolis to raise money for the Salvation Army Indiana division for tornado victims. On March 6, viewers and listeners donated nearly $46,000 during the 12-hour WIBC/RTV 6 Tornado Relief Drive.

Nexstar’s WTWO-TV Holds Day-Long Fundraiser

Nextstar Broadcasting’s WTWO-TV Terre Haute, Ind., aired a day-long telethon to raise funds for the Red Cross’ tornado relief effort. "This hit kind of close to home," said Tim Sanders, promotions director for WTWO-TV. "It could have been us." The telethon ran from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6 and raised more than $32,000. Wabash Valley Red Cross Executive Director Carol Stevens said the money raised will go to good use. "It really is going to help us to continue to do our sheltering operations and feeding and providing [tornado victims] with the kind of supplies they need for the cleanup efforts in their individual homes." A summary video of the telethon is available here.

WTHR-TV Finds Creative Ways to Raise Over Half a Million Dollars for Relief Efforts

Dispatch Broadcasting Group’s WTHR-TV Indianapolis headed a multipronged response to benefit those affected by the tornadoes. WTHR-TV opened a phone bank to accept donations thanks to the help of station volunteers and partners from the Red Cross, Kroger Grocery stores and St. Vincent Health. WTHR-TV turned the station parking lot into a collection point for commuters to drop off donations while Cumulus Media’s WFMS-FM Indianapolis broadcast live from the parking lot, encouraging listeners to come by the TV station and drop off donations. WTHR-TV also provided extended news coverage, hosted an Eyewitness News Tornado Special and held an event with the Indiana Pacers. In total, WTHR-TV’s efforts helped raise more than $575,660 as of the middle of March.

Emmis Radio Stations and WTHI-TV Employees Collect Cash for Storm Victims

Emmis Communication’s WTHI-FM and WWVR-FM Terre Haute, Ind., joined LIN Media’s WTHI-TV Terre Haute, Ind. for "Neighbors Helping Neighbors," a day dedicated to raising money for tornado relief. On March 6, employees from each station stood in front of their studios from 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., collecting money from people traveling by. The three stations raised $17,560 for the Red Cross.

KWCH-TV Uses Multi-Platform Approach in Tornado Coverage

KWCH-TV Uses Multi-Platform Approach in Tornado Coverage Shurz Communication-owned KWCH-TV Witchita’s Storm Team 12 sprang into action when numerous tornadoes touched down in Kansas on April 14. The station’s meteorologists cut into regular programming on KWCH-TV’s main channel and its digital multicast channel. The station then moved into 24.5 hours of continuous storm coverage with KWCH-TV’s team of storm chasers capturing the weather firsthand. KWCH-TV provided live updates throughout coverage of the storm and sent out more than 64,000 text messages to viewers who subscribe to storm alerts. The station also compiled information for the KWCH12 App for Android and iPhone as well as for the KWCH-TV website. Video of KWCH-TV’s multiplatform storm coverage is available here here.

WSET-TV Creates Storm Warning Program

Allbritton’s WSET-TV in Lynchburg, Va., produced a 30-minute special weather program titled "Storm Warning! Preparing for Tornado Season" in conjunction with Tornado Preparedness Day in Virginia. The program, hosted by Chief Meteorologist Sean Sublette, was dedicated to providing safety tips and other information to help viewers make the best possible decisions for their families in the event of severe weather. The program aired on WSET-TV twice, and was posted on WSET-TV’s website and used in several local classrooms.

Cox Stations Collect Supplies for Tornado Clean-up Efforts

When tornadoes ripped through parts of Oklahoma, broadcasters responded quickly to aid in the recovery efforts once the storm passed. Cox Media Group’s radio stations in Tulsa, KRMG-AM/FM, KRAV-FM, KWEN-FM and KJSR-FM, coordinated efforts to collect supplies for the recovery. Listeners donated batteries, gloves, trash bags, dust masks and other items for the clear-up efforts. All items were donated to the local Salvation Army chapter.

Lady Antebellum Visits Damaged High School

Capitol Records Nashville recording artists Lady Antebellum and JuJu Chang of ABC’s "Nightline" toured Henryville High School in southern Indiana. The school is currently under construction to repair devastation from recent tornadoes and will reopen this fall. The story aired on "Good Morning America," "World News Tonight with Diane Sawyer", "Nightline," ABC Radio and ABC affiliates across the country. Additional national and local media supporters aired content from the event throughout the week.

KOMO-TV Organizes Supply Drive After Devastating Flood

When flooding devastated a large area in the southwest portion of the state in December 2007, KOMO-TV in Seattle, Wash., quickly organized an emergency drive. The one-day event, for which the station partnered with the Salvation Army, lasted 17 hours and brought in $180,000 in relief supplies and monetary support. During the drive, the station broadcast live from the collection site. All of its news anchors were there, unloading cars that pulled up with donations. One woman drove up with animal feed and new blankets. She said her husband had died earlier that year, and she could think of no better way to spend the money that would have purchased his birthday and Christmas present than to help those now in need. It is a moment that has stayed in the minds and hearts of KOMO staff. A week after the emergency drive, the station broadcast a 30-minute news special about the flooding. At the end of the program, KOMO shared with its viewers that there was still a great need for donations and directed them on how to give. The news special raised an additional $46,000.

WAFF-TV Equips Homes with Weather Radios

With the help of WAFF-TV in Huntsville, Ala., homes throughout the northern part of the state are now equipped with weather radios. In the wake of tornados that touched down in the middle of the night in February 2008, the station made an initial donation of 200 programmed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association weather radios to families that were affected. The station had been promoting the importance of weather radios for almost two years and knew there was still a great need, especially in rural communities. To address the issue further, WAFF recruited the University of Alabama Huntsville Meteorology Club and the National Weather Service to help set up 19 weather radio programming events throughout its viewing area. The first radio programming events were in counties hit by the tornadoes. As the WAFF 48 Storm Team arrived, people were lined up with their radios waiting. In response to these events, companies began to purchase weather radios for employees and communities began stepping up to get weather radios into the hands of all residents. WAFF’s initial weather radio donation sparked an outpouring from individuals and businesses throughout the Heart of the Valley. In response, the station created the "WAFF 48 Storm Team Weather Radio Project." To date, it has provided 483 weather radios to families in need.

WWL-AM/FM Acts of Lifeline During Hurricane Gustav

In the face of Hurricane Gustav, which many feared would be worse than Hurricane Katrina, veteran broadcasters at WWL-AM/FM in New Orleans, La., stood equipped and ready to provide a lifeline of critical information to listeners. Although the studio endured winds greater than 50 mph, WWL never lost power thanks to emergency transmitter generators put in service prior to any power outages. Throughout the storm, the station not only broadcast from its studio, but also ran four remote broadcast locations. Station talent was placed at emergency operations centers in several parishes, providing local authorities a direct venue to communicate with their communities. These remote broadcast locations had real-life impact. For example, when a private levee in Braithwaite was threatened, WWL talk radio host John “Spud” McConnell made an on-air plea that rallied help and sandbags from nearby residents and businesses. The station remained a steady stream of accurate and potentially lifesaving information before, during and after the storm.

Kentucky Radio Stations Air Crucial Storm Information

When a snow and ice storm left hundreds of thousands in the dark and caused a statewide emergency declaration, radio stations WBIO-FM, WXCM-FM, WLME-FM, WKCM-AM and WVJS-AM in Owensboro, Ky., and WTJC-AM/FM in Tell City, Ind., powered on. Throughout the day and the night, the sister stations broke from all regular programming to get crucial information out to their listeners, many of whom had no power, no heat and no other means of getting emergency information. Phones at the stations began to ring; callers needing kerosene and generators got word out through the radio. The stations stayed on air continuously with updates until the crisis passed. “People will come up to me and thank us for being a lifeline, because there was no other way to get information," said Mike Chaney, news director for the seven stations. "When the power is out, you have radio."

KFGO-AM,WZFG-AM Stay on Air During Flood

When the water in the Red River rose past flood levels, KFGO-AM and WZFG-AM in Fargo, N.D., became heroes to their local listeners. Determined to stay on the air, KFGO protected its facilities with sandbags and a newly built dike. Also remaining on air for a consecutive 24 hours, WZFG dropped regular programming to broadcast updates under FCC emergency rules. Through keeping their broadcast signal on throughout the disaster, the stations were able to provide listeners with lifesaving information.

WDEV-AM/FM Provides Crucial Storm Coverage

Radio Vermont’s WDEV-AM/FM Waterbury was a lifeline for listeners as historic flooding threatened thousands. With the station running solely on backup generators, WDEV Radio’s News Director Eric Michaels gave his personal cell phone number to listeners, encouraging them to call or text in information about those who needed help. For more than 24 hours, Michaels and his team pre-empted regular programming to connect those in need with relief supplies and emergency information.

KUPL-FM Raises Relief Funds for Flood Victims

Alpha’s KUPL-FM Portland, Ore., morning personality Jake the Quake helped the relief effort after nearby Turner, Ore., was devastated by flooding. During a live broadcast from a local Safeway grocery store, Quake asked listeners to donate building supplies, non-perishable food items and cash. Due to the size of the town, Turner is not eligible for federal relief aid. "With your help, this town can bounce back and land on its feet once again," Jake said. Reader’s Digest kicked off the drive with a $1,000 grant. Listeners voted for Turner to receive an additional $50,000 grant through hundreds of visits to the Readers Digest Facebook page.

CBS’s Chicago Stations Make a Difference in Sandy’s Wake

CBS Chicago hosted a 13-hour radio-telethon to raise funds for the American Red Cross relief efforts. Red Cross volunteers joined CBS’s Chicago personalities at a phone bank at the downtown Chicago broadcast center. Participating stations included WBBM-AM, WCFS-FM, WSCR-AM, WXRT-FM, WBBM-FM, WUSN-FM, WJMK-FM and CBS affiliate WBBM-TV. Market Manager Rod Zimmerman noted, "It is our civic responsibility as broadcasters to do everything we can to help make a difference."

WAWZ-FMNew Jersey’s WAWZ-FM Supports Local Families and Churches

Pillar of Fire-owned WAWZ-FM Zarephath, New Jersey’s employees joined local churches in their ongoing relief efforts on Staten Island. Led by Business Manager Nancy Walter, the team was on-site on November 19 to serve food, sort and distribute clothing donations and offer encouragement to residents of hard-hit Midland Beach. Walter said, "We were shocked by the level of widespread devastation in the area and ongoing need...we were privileged to serve." WAWZ-FM has been receiving gift cards which it will distribute to its network of churches in hard-hit communities between Thanksgiving and Christmas to help families replace what they lost.

Cox Media Group Donates to Sandy Relief Efforts

Cox Media Group (CMG) donated $75,000 to New York City-area charities impacted by Hurricane Sandy, including local chapters of Habitat for Humanity. In Norwalk, Conn., Cox Media’s WEZN-FM, WPLR-FM and WFOX-FM donated to the Family & Children’s Agency. "Our donation will support a relief fund that will help them recoup the losses due to the storm and will directly benefit the programs that have been disrupted and which are vital to many people in Fairfield County," Manager Kristin Okesson said in a statement. On Long Island, WBAB-FM and WBLI-FM supported Island Harvest, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization. Parent company Cox Enterprises gave $100,000 to the American Red Cross. Cox’s employee relief fund has given $3 million in aid to more than 1,500 employees affected by hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires and other disasters since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

New York Times: After Hurricane Sandy, People Flock to Radio for Information

People living in the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Sandy tuned in to radio. Arbitron reported that from 7 p.m. to midnight on October 29, when Sandy first hit New Jersey, an average of more than one million people in the New York metro area were listening to the radio during any 15 minute period, a 70 percent increase over the same period in the week prior. The area in the Arbitron report consists of New York City, five counties in New York, nine counties in New Jersey and part of one county in Connecticut. Coastal area listenership exploded, with an increase of 367 percent in Stamford and Norwalk, Conn., 247 percent in Monmouth County and 195 percent in New Jersey’s Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties. The extensive storm coverage on a variety of formats highlights broadcast radio’s service to local communities. Sean Ross, a radio analyst in New Jersey, noted that "radio still has an authority that not every tweet has."

NBC’s Benefit Concert Draws $23 Million in Pledges

NBC’s benefit concert for Sandy victims raised nearly $23 million in donations to the American Red Cross. The hour-long event included performances by artists native to the areas hit hardest by Sandy, including Bruce Springsteen of New Jersey and Jon Bon Jovi and Billy Joel of Long Island. Sting, Christina Aguilera, Mary J. Blige, Tina Fey and Jon Stewart also participated in the benefit concert.

Media General Stations Aid Sandy Victims

Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Red Cross relief efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Red Cross donations throughout newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a 7 p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wanted to volunteer or donate money to relief efforts.

Media General Stations Aid Sandy Victims

Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Red Cross relief efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Red Cross donations throughout newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a 7 p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wanted to volunteer or donate money to relief efforts.

Media General Stations Aid Sandy Victims

Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Red Cross relief efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Red Cross donations throughout newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a 7 p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wanted to volunteer or donate money to relief efforts.

WFLA-TV Aids Sandy Victims

Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Red Cross relief efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Red Cross donations throughout newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a 7 p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wanted to volunteer or donate money to relief efforts.

WJBF-TV, WAGT-TV, WSAV-TV Aid Sandy Victims

Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Red Cross relief efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Red Cross donations throughout newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a 7 p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wanted to volunteer or donate money to relief efforts.

Media General Stations Aid Sandy Victims

Media General stations that held telethons to raise money for the American Red Cross relief efforts included WBTW-TV Myrtle Beach, S.C.; WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio ($27,000 raised); WFLA-TV Tampa, Fla. ($28,000 raised); WJBF-TV and WAGT-TV Augusta, Ga. ($15,000 raised); WJHL-TV Johnson City, Tenn. ($25,000 raised); WSAV-TV Savannah, Ga.; and WSPA-TV Spartanburg, S.C. WSAV-TV also ran a ticker promoting Red Cross donations throughout newscasts. WJAR-TV Providence, R.I., dedicated a 7 p.m. newscast to Sandy’s aftermath. The station replayed top stories that many viewers missed due to power outages and also fielded calls from viewers who wanted to volunteer or donate money to relief efforts.

KCRA-TV, KQCA-TV Sacramento Hold Sandy Disaster Relief Drive

Hearst-owned KCRA-TV and KQCA-TV Sacramento partnered with the Sacramento Sierra Chapter of the American Red Cross to host a disaster relief drive on November 2 to benefit areas impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The stations aired cut-ins throughout the day and solicited donations during the day’s newscasts. KCRA-KQCA President and General Manager Elliott Troshinsky told TVNewsCheck, "It is important that we do all we can to provide help to the communities devastated by this storm."

New York Times: After Hurricane Sandy, People Flock to Radio for Information

People living in the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Sandy tuned in to radio. Arbitron reported that from 7 p.m. to midnight on October 29, when Sandy first hit New Jersey, an average of more than one million people in the New York metro area were listening to the radio during any 15 minute period, a 70 percent increase over the same period in the week prior. The area in the Arbitron report consists of New York City, five counties in New York, nine counties in New Jersey and part of one county in Connecticut. Coastal area listenership exploded, with an increase of 367 percent in Stamford and Norwalk, Conn., 247 percent in Monmouth County and 195 percent in New Jersey’s Middlesex, Somerset and Union counties. The extensive storm coverage on a variety of formats highlights broadcast radio’s service to local communities. Sean Ross, a radio analyst in New Jersey, noted that "radio still has an authority that not every tweet has."

St. Louis Stations Serve Viewers With Round-the-Clock Storm Coverage

Last Friday, severe storms swept through the Midwest, bringing numerous tornadoes through the St. Louis metropolitan area. Luckily, the city’s four leading television stations, Belo-owned KMOV-TV, Gannett Broadcasting’s KSDK-TV, Local TV LLC-owned KTVI-TV and Tribune Broadcasting’s KPLR-TV St. Louis stepped up, pre-empted network programming, providing round-the-clock emergency weather coverage for viewers across St. Louis. KMOV-TV dispatched eight television trucks across the city on Friday night to deliver firsthand accounts of the severe weather that destroyed homes and property, cut power to thousands of local families and temporarily closed Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. KMOV-TV delivered emergency news coverage until 1:30 a.m. Saturday morning. KSDK-TV also had additional staff in the field during the storm, providing extended newscasts Friday and into Saturday. The station ran extended weather coverage during its Saturday evening news programs, as well. KTVI-TV aired a special tornado segment on Saturday evening between 7 and 9 p.m., in addition to their wall-to-wall coverage on Friday night. The program was simulcast on KPLR-TV. To read more about St. Louis television stations’ efforts throughout last week’s tornadoes click here.

Lexington Broadcasters Host Red Cross Telethon

The four commercial television stations in Lexington, Ky. – Cordillera Communications-owned WLEX-TV; Media General’s WTVQ-TV; Gray Television-owned WKYT-TV and Sinclair’s WDKY-TV – teamed up with the American Red Cross to host a telethon to raise money for victims of the storms, tornadoes and floods in Kentucky and other states. Each station promoted the drive during their newscasts and other programming. Winn Stephens, relief coordinator with the Red Cross in Lexington noted, "We wanted to make sure folks had an outlet to give to all of the victims of this recent string of deadly storms." Doug Hogan, news director at WTVQ-TV, said "We thought it would be nice if all the stations in town came together to make a difference… Helping storm victims is the only goal."

Emmis Stations Raised Over $25K for Fire Victims

Following the central Texas wildfires, Emmis Austin Radio raised over $25,000 for the Red Cross of Central Texas and collected three truckloads of much-needed supplies for the Catholic Diocese Charities of Central Texas. These donations added to a large delivery truck full of supplies collected earlier in the week from listeners of the Dudley and Bob Show on Emmis’ KLBJ-FM 93.7 to benefit the first responders and fire victims. Participating stations included: KLBJ-FM, KLBJ-AM, KGSR-FM, KBPA-FM and KGSR-FM.
News Radio KLBJ-FM also provided live continuous media coverage of the wildfires that tore through central Texas. KLBJ’s listeners called in throughout the night with firsthand accounts, which provided local residents with invaluable information regarding the fire’s path, damage, and relief efforts.

Hurricane Irene Releif: WPLR-FM New Haven, WEZN-FM Bridgeport, WSTC-AM Stanford and WNLK-AM Norwalk

Cox Media Group’s stations WPLR-FM New Haven, WEZN-FM Bridgeport, WSTC-AM Stanford and WNLK-AM Norwalk simulcast a program called "IRENE Aftermath," in which station talent joined together to interview local officials about the storm, answer listeners’ questions and provide important information in the hurricane’s wake. Guests on the program included Senator Joe Lieberman, Governer Malloy, several Connecticut mayors and state representatives, among others.

Double O Radio Stations Simulcast Radiothon in Wake of Disaster

Following the storm, eight Double O radio stations in Upstate New York simulcast a radiothon to raise money for the victims through the United Way of Delaware and Otsego County Disaster Relief fund. Double O listeners pledged $36,000 in donations, a huge success which George Wells, Double O’s regional manager says he has never seen before in his 30 years working in radio. Money raised during the radiothons is being used for food, shelter, prescription medications and back-to-school supplies by those impacted.

Greater Media Remembers "Those That Bravely Walk Into Harms Way"

Greater Media stations recognized the anniversary of September 11 with on-air remembrances of the victims and a salute to law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and "the brave Americans who made a difference when it mattered and continue to make a difference on a daily basis." In an Op-Ed in Radio Ink Magazine, Greater Media Chairman and CEO Peter Smyth noted, "We know that everyday men and women from every state in our country bear the scars and wounds of 9/11, some visible, many hidden from view. The least we can do is remember, honor them and continue to support those that bravely walk into harm’s way on a daily basis." The group’s websites also included links to local 9/11 tributes and regional charities.

WAVE-TV Raises $431,000 for Tornado Relief

Employees at Raycom Media’s WAVE-TV Louisville manned the phones during the "WAVE 3 Call to Help" telethon for families impacted by the tornadoes. Viewers generously responded to the call, pledging $431,300 during the drive. Additionally, WAVE-TV partnered with the local A. Arnold Moving Company who set up a large truck outside the station’s studios. Viewers were encouraged to drop off non-perishable food, paper products, toiletries, cleaning and first-aid supplies and volunteers from the local Salvation Army staffed the truck to collect the goods. Click here to watch how viewers hit the road and delivered their donations to WAVE-TV.

Kentucky Cares Telethon

Gray Television’s WKYT-TV Lexington joined a team of organizations including Clear Channel Radio, The Lexington-Herald Ledger, the American Red Cross and UK IMG Sports Marketing, among others, in hosting the "Kentucky Cares Telethon" for tornado victims. WKYT-TV opened its doors for volunteers to come in and answer donation calls. In total, the event raised $404,682 on March 5.

NBC Universal Holds Benefit Telethon

NBCUniversal held the "Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together" telethon on Friday, Nov. 2, on nine of its networks, including NBC. Today anchor Matt Lauer hosted the one-hour show which featured performances by Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera and others. In total, the "Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together" telethon raised more than $23 million in donations from viewers.

NBC Universal Holds Benefit Telethon

NBCUniversal held the "Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together" telethon on Friday, Nov. 2, on nine of its networks, including NBC. Today anchor Matt Lauer hosted the one-hour show which featured performances by Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera and others. In total, the "Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together" telethon raised more than $23 million in donations from viewers.

WVIT-TV Hartford Collects Donations for Local Organizations

NBC-owned WVIT-TV Hartford, Conn., held a storm relief drive on November 4 to benefit victims of Hurricane Sandy. WVIT-TV solicited donations of non-perishable food, personal care items, warm coats and cash during the drive. The items were distributed through the Connecticut Food Bank, Salvation Army and the American Red Cross.

KHNL-TV and KSSK-FM Respond to Island-Wide Blackout

Providing a light in the dark for residents on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, local Hawaiian television and radio stations KHNL-TV and KSSK-FM in Honolulu, Hawaii, responded to an island wide blackout. The late- December blackout not only knocked power out for residents, but also for local business, including the news stations. As KHNL dispatched news crews throughout the island to get information out to viewers on neighboring islands, KSSK radio announcers were the first to go on air at 6:30 p.m. to calm listeners, especially those listening in their cars as the immediate concern was alleviating dangerous driving situations. Additionally, KSSK took phone calls from worried listeners inquiring about the cause and duration of the blackout. KSSK simulcast its broadcast on its seven affiliated radio stations and stayed on air until power was restored at 2 a.m. the following morning. During the emergency broadcast, KSSK radio announcer Michael W. Perry told listeners, “For those of you who have never been through an island-wide power outage here, we have an interesting situation in that we are an island, to restate the obvious, and we can’t tap into anybody else’s grid and we’re on our own, which means we’re gonna have to go for it as best we can and gradually get everything on.”

WTAG-AM Provides Lifeline Storm Coverage

As hundreds of thousands of residents lost power due to a destructive ice storm, WTAG-AM in Paxton, Mass., became a lifeline for local residents. Despite losing power themselves, the station dropped its regularly scheduled programming and broadcast live throughout the entire disaster providing updates on the progress of utility companies, shelter information and useful contact numbers as some listeners were left without power for a week, suffering cold days and severe snow storms. In addition to providing lifesaving information, the station served as an outlet for listeners who wanted to call in to share the details of their personal ordeals or ask questions about the storm and recovery efforts. “All the personalities involved – George Brown, Jim Polito, Sherman Whitman, Jordan Levy, to name a few – maintained a level of respect, politeness and modesty through days of people calling in to ask for pertinent information,” said listener and local business owner Judith Tonelli-Brown. “In short, they provided a service like none I have ever heard of or imagined from a radio station.”

Radio Stations Encourage Residents to File Gulf Coast Claims

Northwest Florida radio broadcasters recently organized a half-hour radio program that updated listeners about the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) filing procedures in the wake of the BP Gulf Coast oil spill, including how to file initial claims and what to do if a claim has been denied. The project was organized by Dave Cobb, general manager of Sunshine Broadcasting. "The BP oil spill hurt the economy of Northwest Florida," he noted. "Radio stations have come together to promote the importance of filing and [if denied] refilling claims to Ken Feinberg’s GCCF organization." Many Northwest Florida radio stations also began a 60-day radio advertising campaign that encourages Floridians to file claims. Thus far, radio stations have donated $192,018 in airtime to this initiative.

WSET-TV Activates Tornado Lifeline

Further east, WSET-TV Lynchburg, Va., activated the "Heart of Virginia Tornado Lifeline" in response to the tornado disasters in Virginia and regions of North Carolina. The National Weather Service confirmed 15 twisters across the Commonwealth – with Washington and Halifax counties being hit the hardest.
Supply and donation collection points were set up at two Lynchburg Kroger stores and a Food Lion location in Danville. On-air personalities and other employees from within several departments at WSET-TV were at the collection points to help with the effort. Between the three locations, five pallets of supplies and more than $7,000 were collected.

WSET-TV Activates ’Heart of Virginia Tornado Lifeline’

WSET-TV Lynchburg, Va., activated the "Heart of Virginia Tornado Lifeline" in response to the tornado disasters in Virginia and regions of North Carolina. The National Weather Service confirmed 15 twisters across the Commonwealth – with Washington and Halifax counties being hit the hardest.
Supply and donation collection points were set up at two Lynchburg Kroger stores and a Food Lion location in Danville. On-air personalities and other employees from within several departments at WSET-TV were at the collection points to help with the effort. Between the three locations, five pallets of supplies and more than $7,000 were collected.

FOX NY Stations Use Satellite Trucks and a Chopper to Capture 100 Hours of Coverage

FOX Television’s WNYW-TV and WWOR-TV New York City partnered to produce 100 hours of coverage in four days, including video of an NYPD rooftop rescue. WNYW-TV Vice President and News Director Dianne Doctor told TVSpy that due to gas shortages and miles-long gas lines, WNYW-TV contracted out private suppliers of fuel to keep the station’s satellite trucks running. WNYW-TV shared helicopters with CBS’s WCBS-TV to broadcast pictures of the devastation and to enter inaccessible areas. Doctor described reporter Dan Bowen’s experience in Seaside. "He was heating up his soup on the engine of his truck, and he said it was the best food that he had had," Doctor said. "You just saw the resourcefulness and the capabilities of some of these people."

News Corp to Donate $1 Million to Recovery

News Corporation announced it will donate $1 million to help victims of Hurricane Sandy – $500,000 to the Mayor’s Fund for NYC and $500,000 for relief in New Jersey. The storm affected millions of people and, with the company’s global headquarters in New York City, had a direct impact on the communities within which many News Corporation employees live and work.

News Corp to Donate $1 Million to Recovery

News Corporation announced it will donate $1 million to help victims of Hurricane Sandy – $500,000 to the Mayor’s Fund for NYC and $500,000 for relief in New Jersey. The storm affected millions of people and, with the company’s global headquarters in New York City, had a direct impact on the communities within which many News Corporation employees live and work.

CBS to Donate $1 Million, Run PSAs, Match Employee Donations

CBS donated $1 million to the Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. The network also created a series of hurricane relief PSAs, which have begun running on-air. CBS CEO Leslie Moonves also announced the network will match employee contributions to the recovery efforts through the end of the year.

CBS to Donate $1 Million, Run PSAs, Match Employee Donations

CBS donated $1 million to the Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. The network also created a series of hurricane relief PSAs, which have begun running on-air. CBS CEO Leslie Moonves also announced the network will match employee contributions to the recovery efforts through the end of the year.

WITH-FM, WWDC-FM, WMZQ-FM Leverage Numerous Platforms for Storm Coverage

Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s Baltimore/Washington D.C. cluster was busy during Hurricane Sandy. As operating manager Meg Stevens told All Access, "All [the group’s] morning shows," including WITH-FM, WWDC-FM and WMZQ-FM, "started Monday morning setting the scene of what was about to happen and making sure listeners were prepared." The station’s coverage included interviews with NBC-owned WRC-TV Washington’s meteorologists, a dedicated Storm Watch webpage with preparation information and storm path coverage and Facebook and Twitter updates on stations’ pages." After the storm, Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s radio stations helped to provide "clean-up and power restoration information, road closure and flooding information and other travel info."

WBAL-TV Reporters Remind Viewers of Strong Winds’ Threat

Hearst-owned WBAL-TV Baltimore provided live coverage of the storm from the streets of Ocean City, Maryland on Monday night. During the live coverage, WBAL-TV reporter Lowell Melser and photographer Mac Finney were nearly hit by a piece of metal swept up by the strong winds. Despite the traumatic experience, Melser continued reporting live, while his co-anchor in the WBAL-TV studio, Deb Weiner, used the incident to remind viewers that the storm was very volatile and could instantly create strong winds. The station had prepared reporters with cash in case ATMs stopped, booked hotel rooms with generators for news personnel and gave satellite truck operators ropes to tie down their dishes. "Everybody left home on Saturday prepared to be gone for five to seven days," WBAL’s Michele Butt told TVNewsCheck. "You don’t stop covering the storm just because the sun comes out."

WMAR-TV Keeps Viewers in Baltimore Informed

Scripps’ WMAR-TV Baltimore streamed news online, provided local emergency alerts via the Storm Shield and Hurricane Tracker apps and explained the trajectory and tracking methods on its weather blog. Additional personnel from sister stations in markets including Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Tampa, Tulsa, Okla. and Phoenix helped with coverage.





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