FCC: Broadcasters “Fall Far Short”
of Serving Local Needs

WHAV Seeks Leaders to Serve on New Advisory Board WHAV is seeking seven to nine volunteers to serve on its new Community Advisory Board. The board will meet quarterly to discuss important community needs, provide feedback and offer suggestions about how WHAV’s programming might address identified issues. Those wishing to serve should reflect a cross-section of the community, perform as an ambassador for the station, be willing to attend quarterly meetings and serve a one-year term, which may be renewed. While comments and suggestions will receive highest consideration, the board will have no authority over the management or operation of the station. There is no financial compensation.   Those interested should submit a letter outlining their interests and a resume to: WHAV 189 Ward Hill Avenue Ward Hill, MA 01835 Or via e-mail to [email protected]. Thank you for your support of community radio!

Nearly five years ago, WHAV began serving local audiences via the Web and area cable television stations. At the time, WHAV management said the station is a vitally important step toward reversing years of reduced media commitment to local communities.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the agency charged with regulating the nation’s radio and television stations, now agrees. After studying “Localism in Broadcasting,” the commission concluded:

“…commenters have raised serious concerns that broadcasters’ efforts, as a general matter, fall far short from what they should be. Specifically, the record indicates that many stations do not engage in the necessary public dialogue as to community needs and interests and that members of the public are not fully aware of the local issue-responsive programming that their local stations have aired.”

The FCC is expected to act soon on its “Report on Broadcast Localism and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.” According to the report, “These proposed changes are intended to promote localism by providing viewers and listeners greater access to locally responsive programming including, but not limited to, local news and public affairs matter.”

WHAV long ago expressed its raison d’être: “Consolidation of the media in recent years has failed to serve the public interest. Harmful effects include reduced program choice; shrinking playlists; decreased diversity of voices; increased advertising costs; the decline of locally based public affairs, news and other content; and lost jobs.”

In issuing its proposals the FCC effectively endorsed WHAV’s local approach. The FCC is considering requiring broadcasters to locate main studios within the local communities so that they are “part of the neighborhood,” “provide some locally-oriented programming” and “convene permanent advisory boards comprised of local officials and other community leaders, to periodically advise them of local needs and issues, and seek comment on the matter.”

WHAV has built the newest and most modern studios in the Merrimack Valley and airs locally oriented programs every hour, 24-hours-a-day. Although WHAV’s owner, Xelocast, frequently consults community leaders, management agrees a community advisory board is a logical step in ascertaining public needs.

WHAV is looking for volunteers to serve on its Community Advisory Board. Seven to nine members, serving one-year terms, will meet quarterly to determine how WHAV may best serve area communities.  See the box, above right, for more information.

Beat the Recession; Grow with Low-Cost Sponsorships of Local Programs

Karen McDowell, public affairs director

Here’s a great opportunity to reach loyal WHAV listeners tuning in on the Internet, over a number of cable television stations across the Valley and on
AM 1640.

Sponsor News, Weather or Community Spotlight for only $78 a week – about half the lowest prices of other area stations.

A 13-week sponsorship includes:

• 10, 30-second commercials weekly!

• Opening and closing announcements (20 more promotional announcements about your business)

• FREE Bonus commercials (as time permits)

• FREE Directory listing at WHAV.net with link

Greater discounts are available to those who choose optional 26- or 52-week advertising plans.

Low priced with the economy in mind, sponsorships provide an opportunity for your business to grow while your competitors are cutting back. Studies prove that those who continue to market during downturns enjoy greater market share in the long run.

To place your order, call (978) 374-2111 and ask for Teddie Sarmanian, or complete the secure online form here .

Music Charts

(Listed alphabetically by performer)

Sara Bareilles, Love Song
Natasha Bedingfield, Pocketful of Sunshine
Coldplay, Viva La Vida
David Cook, The Time Of My Life
Enya, Trains and Winter Rains
Leona Lewis, Better in Time
Sarah McLachlan, U Want Me
O.A.R., Shattered (Turn The Car Around)
OneRepublic, Stop and Stare 
James Taylor, It’s Growing

WHAV November Listener Picks

ABBA, Take A Chance
The Beatles, We Can Work It Out
Jonny Cymbal, Mr. Bass Man
The Eagles, Witchy Woman
The Flying Machine, Smile A Little Smile For Me
Hall and Oates, Sara Smile
Janis Ian, At Seventeen
Linda Ronstadt, Blue Bayou
Sister Sledge, We Are Family
Zager & Evans, In the Year 2525

What’s your favorite?  Complete the Listen & Win form or call (978) 374-2111 with your favorites and be entered to win free stereo headphones .

Employment Opportunity

Break Into e-Media Sales

Xelocast, the region’s pioneer Internet radio group, seeks full-time, highly motivated advertising sales account executives. Part-time candidates will be considered. Prior sales experience is preferred. Excellent commission rate plus benefits including a 401(k) plan with company match.

Xelocast is an equal opportunity employer. Send letter and resume to Xelocast, c/o WHAV, 189 Ward Hill Avenue, Ward Hill, MA 01835 or via e- mail to [email protected]. No telephone calls please.