(w/o) Jazz90.1 is pleased to announce the largest donation of equipment in our 50-year history.
The station was gifted a new broadcast transmitter by Greece Community Broadcasting Inc. earlier this year.
The new transmitter – which replaced the failing transmitter purchased in 2004 – was installed and went on the air in May, thanks to the hard work of engineer Scott Fybush.
In 2004, Jazz90.1 increased its broadcast power to 15,000 watts. After years of fundraising, the station purchased a used Harris broadcast transmitter which had been used on top of The Empire State Building following the 9/11 terrorist attacks to bring a NYC radio station back on the air.
Since that time and after 20+ years of continuous operation, parts have become difficult to acquire, and the transmitter was deemed too costly to keep in operation.
Greece Community Broadcasting Inc. has been in existence since the early 1970’s. As a separate 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the group was formed to serve in an advisory and fundraising role for WGMC-FM. Over the years, they have generously donated equipment to assist with the operation of the station. They were also instrumental in helping Jazz90.1 raise funds in the early 2000’s for its “Power Up – Take Jazz Further” capital campaign.
“Greece Community Broadcasting Inc. has been committed since day one to ensure that WGMC-FM remains on the air serving not only the Greece, New York community, but listeners from around the world. The donation of this new broadcast transmitter will ensure that Jazz90.1 can head into its next 50 years stronger than ever,” said President Al Meilutis.
“We are honored and grateful to receive such a gift, as it would have taken us years to raise funds for this ourselves,” said Station Manager Rob Linton. “Thanks to the generosity of G.C.B. Inc. and their board members, we have a solid infrastructure to serve our listeners and members for many years to come.”
Although the transmitter is new, the station did not increase its power. Jazz90.1 WGMC-FM is presently at its maximum broadcast power. Due to our location and surrounding radio stations, Jazz90.1 will remain at 15,000 watts.