SYLACAUGA, Ala. – When Congress passed the Omnibus Appropriations Act last week, it recognized the critical role that radio and television stations play during times of crisis. And that’s especially good news.
The bill, signed by President Trump on March 23, officially designed broadcasters as “first responders”, meaning that we are now permitted and entitled to access crisis areas, both for reporting and for maintaining station operations in disaster situations. We also have access to help from FEMA (for example, if we needed generator fuel), which was previously restricted to traditional first responders.
As demonstrated last year through hurricanes and tornadoes, broadcasters play a critical role in ensuring public safety and dissemination of critical information before, during, and after disasters. We are excited that RadioAlabama’s stations and SylacaugaNews.com are now among America’s official first responders, which will allow us to continue providing the best possible news and information to the communities we are licensed and privileged to serve.
We’ve continued to make significant investments in the very best technology and, just over the last few months, in extensive backup generator systems at multiple origination and transmission sites for our six stations. We want to make absolutely sure we remain on the air and able to keep people in East Central Alabama informed — especially when unreliable cellular- and internet-based technologies are overwhelmed or otherwise unavailable. Make sure fresh batteries are always available for your flashlights and portable radios!
Lee Perryman
President & Chief Executive Officer
RadioAlabama/Marble City Media LLC
Yea!106.5 & WYEA!1290 – 98.3 Fox FM – 105.1 WRFS – 96.3 & 1050 WLMA – SylacaugaNews.com