Topic: Disaster Relief and Recovery
When tornados ripped through Macon County and killed 13 people in 2007, WEEN-AM and WLCT-FM of Lafayette, Tenn., quickly got back on the air and immediately began broadcasting emergency information that was instrumental in helping police, emergency officials and families in need of assistance. Because of the devastation, 90 people in the area were still unaccounted for three days after the tornados hit. At 8 a.m., the stations began reading the names of those missing, and two hours later, 80 were reunited with their families and friends. By 1 p.m., all 90 people had been found, saving emergency rescue crews and officials countless hours that could now be redirected toward recovery and other aid efforts. The quick work by the stations also saved the families from incredible stress and worry. According to Jill Green from the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters, "this wonderful effort by one of our long standing member stations makes us proud."
Read more stories on Disaster Relief and Recovery »
More than 2.47 million American jobs depend on broadcasting, and the local broadcast radio and television industry - and the businesses that depend on it - generate $1.17 trillion annually for the nation's economy.
This site is brought to you by the National Association of Broadcasters. We advocate for the nation's radio and television broadcasters.
