Call for Support - 88.1 FM WESU

submitted by WESU FM Radio:

88.1 FM WESU CALLS ON LISTENERS TO GIVE THE GIFT OF WESU THIS HOLIDAY SEASON MARKING 70th YEAR OF SERVICE

Wesleyan University's non-commercial college and community

radio station, 88.1FM WESU, the same station that broadcasts EYE ON THE AIR, the companion radio show to this news blog, calls on listeners to give the gift of WESU this holiday season during The Fifth Annual WESU Holiday Pledge Drive. This year's drive will take place November 30th through the end of live programming on December 13th.

The goal for this year's 2 week drive is to raise $20,000 in listener support to sustain operating expenses throughout the coming year. As Wesleyan university struggles to close a budget gap this fiscal year, WESU faces more pressure than ever to become a self sustaining community service.

With our 70th Anniversary year coming to a close, WESU is in the final stages of fulfilling a construction permit from the FCC to increase our power from 1,500 to 6,000 watts (ERP). This upgrade will nearly double our potential listening audience from approximately 500,000 to 1,000,000 people. Our antenna has been delivered and the installation is poised to begin upon completion of our pledge drive, weather pending.

Financial support during this pledge drive will help ensure that WESU continues to grow and operate as a creative vehicle for partnership between the Wesleyan University community, the people of the greater Connecticut River Valley, and beyond. Donations will directly benefit WESU and help to ensure local, community-based programs and alternative news and music continue to have a home on the radio dial.

WESU boasts a diverse schedule offering a wide variety of free form creative musical programming including Jazz, Soul, Blues, Rock, Caribbean, Hip Hop, Experimental, Electronic, Gospel, Oldies, Latin music, and much more.

In addition to the plethora of music programming, WESU also offers a robust public affairs line-up including programs from National Public Radio, Pacifica, and other independent and local alternative news consortiums.

To show your support for WESU, please donate now at www.wesufm.org, or call 860-685-7700 during the drive and make a pledge. Online pledges are conveniently processed immediately, they prevent clerical errors, and they are more eco-friendly since there is no paper involved. All donations are tax deductible.