Friday, October 20, 2006

You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio

Okay, I won't get all preachy on you, but please consider the following:

CKCU FM has been broadcasting amazing community radio to the Ottawa region for 31 years.

It's home to the longest-running disco show in Canada.

It is run by over 200 volunteers and a few paid staff.

The very first song that came over the airwaves so long ago was "You turn me on, I'm a radio" by Joni Mitchell.

It supports Ottawa musicians, artists and writers by promoting and playing their work.

It trains anyone who has an interest in radio and wants to volunteer for free. You can learn to work a sound board, program a show, host, record and make documentaries in exchange for helping out at the station every now and then.

It runs a radio camp for kids, and has recently added one for teens and adults.

If you are writing a paper at 4 a.m. or simply can't sleep, you know there is someone at CKCU playing music just for you. Aah, the overnighter.

It is a goldmine of music, new and old, and will always have something on that you've never heard before.

It runs on a shoe-string budget, and barely squeaks by every year.

The moral of the story? Please, if you have anything to give, donate to CKCU FM. The annual funding drive started today, and they are in need of support. The drive runs until November 5, so give them a call (613-520-3920) or check them out online (www.ckcufm.com). Often if you donate $30 or more, you are eligible for a free CD or book. This varies by show, and your choices will change every day, but ask!

Now I head home in the frigid rain to make veggie burritos, drink wine and donate. Yeah, I can see you drooling. And I'll be posting some pictures soon, I promise.

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