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.
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.
Covering droughts and extreme heat in their area, 
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.
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. 
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.
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.
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.
Ahead of Hurricane Elsa making landfall (later downgraded to a tropical storm), E.W. Scripps Company’s Fox affiliate WFTX-TV Cape Coral, Fla., 
Radio stations across Nashville in stayed on-air and broadcasting through emergency flooding during the end of March flooding.
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. 
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.
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.”
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.”
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. 
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.”
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 “
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 
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.
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 
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 
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 
Telemundo launched on August 8 
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.
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. 
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:
Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves wrote a 
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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 
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.
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. 
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 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.
Nexstar’s NBC affiliate WFLA-TV Tampa raised 
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 
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.
Three Notch Communication’s WAAO-FM Andalusia, Ala., 
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.”
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.
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.”
Curtis Media Group’s WPLW-FM and WWPL-FM Raleigh raised $7,000 for Hurricane relief during its “Carolina Cares: A Benefit Concert” on October 20.
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.
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.
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.
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. 
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.
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 
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.
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.
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.
Amaturo Sonoma Media Group’s KSRO-AM Santa Rosa played an integral role as 
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.
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.
Griffin Communication’s CBS affiliate KWTV Oklahoma City aired 
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.
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.
Raycom’s CBS affiliate KFVS-TV Cape Girardeau, Mo., Chief Meteorologist Grant Dade was 
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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’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’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 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 Media Group set up a 
Television broadcasters have 
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’s awareness campaign “
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 (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’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 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.
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 
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 
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.”
Beasley Media Group’s WXKB-FM, WJPT-FM, WWCN-FM, WRXKFM and WRXK-FM Fort Meyers, Fla., raised $31,483 on August 31 for the American Red Cross in a special live “Music Thon.” The event included local artists, hit music and special requests.
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.
Hearst’s ABC affiliate WCVB-TV Boston raised more than $500,000 in the “
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.
The Walt Disney Company and ABC-owned KTRK-TV Houston pledged $1 million to the Red Cross and matched employee donations.
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.
Scripps’ WTMJ-AM and WKTI-FM Milwaukee raised $69,000 on August 28 during a telethon for the American Red Cross.
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.
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 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.
TEGNA 
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 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.”
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 
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’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,” 
Hearst 
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.
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.”
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 
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."
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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, 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 
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.”
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.
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 
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."
Raycom’s NBC affiliate WECT Wilmington, N.C. 
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.
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.
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 
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 
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.
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, 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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.”
The Georgia Association of Broadcasters (GAB) shared information with 
As 
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.
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.”
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.
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 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.”
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 
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.
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 across the country held a variety of fundraisers after historic flooding devastated parts of southern Louisiana in August. CBS affiliate 
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’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 
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 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 (
Univision News reported from Orlando within hours of the Pulse shooting, providing coverage on television, radio and digital platforms. A special digital report "
Fond Du Lac Band’s WKLK-AM/FM and WMOZ-FM Coquet, Minn. was the “
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.”
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.
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 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.
A news crew from Griffin’s CBS affiliate KWTV Oklahoma City 
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:
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.
Broadcast television stations that 
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.
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.”
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.”
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’s Fox affiliate WVUE New Orleans led a group of stations in a March 16 
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.
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.”
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 
Gray’s CBS affiliate KNOE-TV Monroe, LA 
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 
Graham Media’s NBC affiliate WDIV Detroit aired an hour-long special, "
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 
At the NAB State Leadership Conference on February 23, Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) 
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 
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.
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.
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 
Baltimore Sun Reporter David Zurawik 
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 
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."
On January 22-23, 
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.
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.”
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.
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 
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 
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."
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 
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 
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.
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.
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."
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. 
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 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 
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.
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.
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. 
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 
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." 
According to 
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.
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 
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 
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."
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.
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 
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."
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.
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 
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 
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.’"
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 
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.
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 
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 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 
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.
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-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.
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.
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.
Tribune Broadcasting’s CW affiliate WPIX-TV New York aired several Hurricane Sandy specials in October and republished coverage 
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.
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.
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 
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.
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 
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.
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 
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 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’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.
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.
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’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 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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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-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-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.
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.
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."
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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, 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. 
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."
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 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."
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.
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 
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 
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’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.
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."
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. 
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 
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.
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 
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.
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 
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 
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.
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. 
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.
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 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-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."
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.
Cox Media’s WBLI-FM West Babylon, NY’s morning host Dana Dinato’s street was flooded and closed, but according to an 
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."
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 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 
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."
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.
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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.
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.
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 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 
Independently-owned WBOC-TV Salisbury, Maryland’s vice president and general manager, Craig Jahelka, told 
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 
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.
Fox’s WTXF-TV Philadelphia anchor Stephanie Esposito broadcast 
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.
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.
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. 
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.
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.
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."
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.
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 
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."
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.
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 
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.
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 
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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 (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 
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 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.
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 
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 
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. 
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 
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.
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-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.
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.
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.
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 
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.
The Walt Disney Company will donate $2 million to Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, giving half to the Red Cross and half to local organizations. The company will also match employee donations to many relief organizations.
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.
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s Baltimore/Washington D.C. cluster was busy during Hurricane Sandy. As operating manager Meg Stevens told 
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 