Earthquakes And Radio

Earthquakes And Radio
www.radioheritage.net

WELLINGTON (Radio Heritage Foundation/Pacific Media Watch):
During the past month cities in both New Zealand and Japan in the Asia-Pacific
region have been shattered by terrible earthquakes..and people have been
reminded again how vital radio is to help survivors at these times.

Here at the Radio Heritage Foundation, a decision was made to put
normal operations on hold and closely monitor radio services in
Christchurch, New Zealand, after their killer quake on February 22.

Within a short time, it was concluded that existing services could not
provide local news and welfare programs because they could not get to
their studios [and still cannot a month later] or they had been
destroyed.

Radio Heritage Foundation's response was to organise the only available mobile radio studio
in the South Island to relocate to New Brighton in the hardest hit eastern
suburbs, and within 10 days of the idea, Radio New Brighton 102.1 FM
was broadcasting live and local 24/7 to some shattered communities.

"I'm delighted our board members from Australia, USA and the
Netherlands responded so fast to support this decision," said
foundation chairman David Ricquish.

"I've just returned from a hectic 9 days there with Chris Diack from
Classic Gold who shared our vision to bring a local radio station to
these people and has pulled together a team of volunteers with Aaron
Gardiner to bring hope back to people living in a city with a clouded
future after some 20 percent of the population self-evacuated.

"It's a long way from researching, writing and publishing stories
about other radio stations and people, the daily activities we do to
preserve our heritage for future generations. But this time we've
become part of the story ourselves, and we've been honored to do so.

"How long the station can continue we don't know. But with local
community and business support, the city may have a new local voice
as rebuilding lives, families and businesses slowly moves forward.

"In the meantime, our overheads have continued to grow, and we are now
about 45 days behind in meeting these expenses. If you're able to
help us get back on track before March 31, will you do so today?

"We need 22 people able to donate US$100 to bring us right up to date,
or US$50 will cover one of those 45 days we're behind.

"Please use the donation button today at www.radioheritage.net and
help secure our continued daily operations.

"There's a great connection between radio heritage and Radio New
Brighton...in 1937, the original 3ZB was set up in the area and
broadcast reassurance and welfare messages during the dark days of
WWII...and in 2011, Radio New Brighton continues this tradition
during these dark days post the killer earthquake of February 22.

"Radio has always served and will continue to do so, and your donation
of US$100 or US$50 today will help us record these moments for future
generations to understand.

"New Zealand residents who make a donation before March 31 are
eligible for one-third tax refunds on donations - NZ$150 will be
refunded NZ$50 for example."

ENDS

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