Radio Groups Come Together to Form United Radio Broadcasters of New Orleans

Clear Channel Communications website ^ | 9/2/05 | Clear Channel Communications, Entrecom

[bigbob]

Clear Channel, Entercom and Local Independent Stations Combine Resources to Provide Continuous Information to New Orleans and the Surrounding Area

New Orleans, LA – September 2, 2005 – In response to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the radio groups serving New Orleans and the surrounding area have come together to form the United Radio Broadcasters of New Orleans. The United Radio Broadcasters of New Orleans is a joint effort to provide the region with the most complete, reliable and consistent radio broadcast of emergency recovery and relief information. It is comprised of stations operated by Clear Channel Radio (NYSE: CCU), Entercom Communications (NYSE: ETM) and independent stations 1470 KLCL in Lake Charles and 1290 KJEF in Jennings. The collaboration features Entercom's WWL-AM 870, enhanced by the resources of the other Entercom and Clear Channel stations in the region. The Louisiana Network out of Baton Rouge is also providing important facilities support.

An estimated 15 stations are combining programming and engineering resources that began airing the same broadcast at 10:00 p.m. Central Time last night. Programming consists of continuous news, information and coverage of local relief efforts, and will include live feeds from street reporters and interviews and updates from local officials and relief coordinators. A toll-free 800 number will allow listeners to call in with their experiences, eyewitness reports and questions. In addition, the stations will share a helicopter to transport engineers to transmitter sites and assist in the evacuation of employees as needed.

“Given the state of New Orleans, we believe it is critical for the community to have the most current and accurate information available,” said John Hogan, President and CEO of Clear Channel Radio. “Radio is best positioned to provide this service and by coming together and pooling our resources we will be able to provide the community with news, updates and a connection with the outside world.”

David J. Field, President and Chief Executive Officer at Entercom Communications, commented: "The people of New Orleans are now, more than ever, depending on radio to keep them informed and connected. Our staff at WWL-AM has provided a vital lifeline of critical news and information to the community throughout the storm and its unfortunate aftermath. We are combining our resources with our radio colleagues to enhance our collective service and support to the people of New Orleans as they struggle to cope with this horrific tragedy." Independent broadcasters in the region interested in joining this important effort should call 225.231.1860.

Streamed broadcasting from the United Radio Broadcasters of New Orleans is available at http://ccri.eonstreams.com/ccri_la_batonrouge_wskr_am.asf. This link can also be accessed via StormAid.com, an online hurricane relief resource operated by Clear Channel.

[bigbob]

International shortwave station WHRI is also rebroadcasting the United Radio Broadcasters programming, see http://www.wwl.com/Article.asp?id=114239 for times and frequencies. Great example of business competitors joining forces to serve the people of New Orleans, wherever they may be.

[No Longer Free State]

Too little, too late. Where was this coalition when it was the time to urge folks to evacuate the city BEFORE it was under water?

[capt. norm]

WWL is one heck of a "blowtorch". Their 50,000 watt signal is stronger here in Panama City, FL than some of the local stations.