The previous frequency of 101.5MHz was just under 10 watts, while the new frequency of 107.3 MHz is 23 watts, giving the station a broader range, said Centerville School Superintendent Gary Smiga, announcing the change at the July 27, school board meeting at the high school.
The Federal Communications Commission forced the station to give up its frequency to Radio One Inc., which filed an application in 2007 to move its Urbana country-music radio station, WKSW-FM 101.7, to Enon and take over the 101.5 FM radio frequency in the Dayton area. That threatened to knock Centerville off the air because it hadn’t found any other available frequencies.
Radio One said in 2007 it would work with Centerville to find a new frequency and in the end got them a new antenna, a new transmitter and receiver and equipment resources, Smiga said.
The transition was quick, Smiga said. After going off the air July 27, it was back operating on its new frequency three hours later, he said.
The station first went on the air in the fall of 1971 and is one of the oldest student-operated radio systems, Smiga said. The student-run station was started at Magsig at a frequency of 91.9 and was later moved to the high school.
“We’re going to just get better,” Smiga said.
The public can receive emergency notifications by tuning to WCWT 107.3-FM during a storm or other emergency, Smiga said, as the station can remain on the air with generator capability and give out information on where people can seek shelter and help.
Tricia Rapoch, who teaches broadcast management at the high school, said after the meeting, the students have received tremendous support and help from an advisory board of local adults who volunteer their time to help students with on-air work. A rebuilt master control, which they’re working on, the switch of frequencies, and their supportive advisory board will all help make better broadcasting, she said.
Besides emergency broadcast possibilities for the Centerville and Washington Twp. area, the student-run radio station is part of a career-education class, and broadcasts Centerville Elks football, soccer, basketball, hockey, baseball and other student activities.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2341 or kullmer@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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