You could soon have a new radio station on your dial: 100.7 Ferndale Radio, but you have to help make it happen.
A non-profit organization, Underwood V Radio announced plans for low-power FM radio station 100.7 WFCB to launch inside the Rust Belt Market in downtown Ferndale by summer 2017.
“The idea started with four of my friends sitting on my front porch,” Underwood V President Michelle Mirowski said. “We all have radio experience and have a passion for it and wanted to bring something special to the community.”
"It's a perfect fit for Rust Belt Market," says Rust Belt co-owner Chris Best. "It was actually in our business plan to have a community radio station. We couldn't be more excited to make this happen."
The people behind Ferndale Radio plan to give the station an indie, college radio feel but people in Ferndale and parts of Royal Oak and Detroit won’t be able to listen if the group can’t raise the funds needed.
Ferndale Radio has begun a crowdfunding campaign to raise the $15,000 needed to put towards the purchase and installation of broadcast equipment, including an antenna and FM transmitter.
“This is a project five years in the making,” said Jeremy Olstyn, Ferndale Radio’s Director of Programming and Training. “It’s been a labor of love, and reaching this point in the process is exciting. With the support of the community, a unique radio station offering an alternative option on the FM dial is just months away.”
The fact the Ferndale Radio group was even able to score a low-power FM license is extremely rare. In 2013, the FCC opened a window for applications for just the third time in two decades.
“We were shocked when we got it,” said Mirowski. “We only have a few weeks left to raise the money so we hope people will share the same passion for radio, express and creativity that Ferndale is known for.”
Depending on the amount donated, people could earn a Ferndale Radio t-shirt, sticker or even get the chance to be a DJ on 100.7 during the broadcast.
To donate click here.
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