Radio Station Receives Grant to Expand Weekend Jazz Programs

Pennsylvania College of Technology recently began implementing a grant to expand weekend jazz programming on the college's radio station, WPTC 88.1 FM.

The $1,272 grant provided by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts through its regional arts funding partnership, Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts not only allows for the radio station to offer a full day of jazz music on Saturdays (adding to the full day of jazz already offered on Sundays), but also provides money for community public-affairs programming, which will be produced and aired this spring.

The expanded jazz programming began the weekend of Jan. 6, which was also the beginning of National Radio Month. According to President Eisenhower in 1958: "This celebration provides an opportunity to call attention to the vital role that radio plays in the daily life of the national community. As a channel for public service, radio contributes much to the American people through programs of news, education and entertainment."

Forty-nine years later, radio programs offer the public the same benefits. WPTC carries jazz music on weekends and during summer and semester breaks, but on weekdays during the academic year, it provides hands-on experience for students. Managed by students in the mass media communication major, WPTC has a staff of approximately 50, including students from other majors and community volunteers.

While honing their skills, the students play modern rock music and produce news and event programming about Penn College and the Williamsport community. Broadcasts are heard on radio, through a live stream on the Internet, and through speakers along the campus' Susquehanna Street Mall.

When students are not in the booth, volunteer DJs from the Williamsport area often fill the schedule with varied, unique programming, ranging from "Lost Radio," which honors the "Lost" television series, to "The Sandman Show," hosted by local record producer Terrence Cuff. Both have attracted fans from around the world.

For more information about the academic programs offered by the School of Integrated Studies at Penn College, call (570) 327-4521, send e-mail or visit on the Web.