Contributing writer for The Canyon Weekly
A large donation by Freres Lumber has covered the funds needed to replace KYAC Community Radio’s Emergency Alert System.
The Lyons-based company gave the Mill City radio station $3,000 toward purchase of the new EAS that will meet Federal Communications Commission’s requirements. The FCC changed the equipment necessary for all AM and FM radio stations to broadcast public emergency alerts.
“Our current emergency alert system is 11 years old and is not able to be updated,” said Ken Cartwright, KYAC station manager. “As with many radio stations, there was no choice but to replace the old equipment with a new system.”
Cartright said the donation came at a time when the station’s reserve funds were almost depleted. To cover the approximately $3,500 cost of the required equipment, KYAC reached out to listeners during its recent pledge drive for this funding.
“Pledge drives are usually for operating and administrative costs for the station,” Cartwright said. “Thanks to local supporters, the pledge drive raised sufficient funds to meet several months of operating expenses and some funding for the new equipment.”
With time running out to meet FCC regulations, Cartwright reached out to Freres Lumber for added help to buy the EAS upgrade.
On Feb. 28, Tyler Freres presented Jeff Keto, treasurer of Santiam Hearts to Arts and KYAC Community Radio in Mill City, with the donation needed to replace the EAS by deadline.
“It should be noted that several other donors offered to help fund this special piece of equipment, if needed, after Freres had offered their help,” Cartwright said. “Thanks go to Focus Heating and Construction and all the others, including the listeners and supporters of KYAC, for their offers to help.”
Any extra funds donated for the EAS equipment will be held in reserve for future equipment needs, Cartwright said.
KYAC is funded by donations from listeners, some underwriters, and private and public grants. For more information, call 503-897-6397 or visit Santiam Hearts to Arts on Facebook.
