Wednesday, September 4 is the day listeners of CJNU Nostalgia Radio have been waiting for.
That’s the day the Winnipeg based community radio station will move from 107.9 on the FM dial in Winnipeg, to 93.7. It will also mark the official start of broadcasting via a brand new 500-watt transmitter on the top of 55 Nassau, as Winnipeg’s newest fully licensed 24-hour radio station.
The news, announced by the directors, volunteers, and members of CJNU, Nostalgia Unlimited, confirmed that test broadcasting is already underway on 93.7, with continuous music and brief announcements on the new frequency. The tests are showing a greatly improved signal, especially in areas of Winnipeg where reception has been less than ideal on 107.9 FM.
In addition to the improved signal, the most notable change will be an end to the ‘dark days’ where CJNU had to be off the air slightly more than once a month under terms of permits from Industry Canada. Other than that, it will be pretty much business as usual when the switchover is finalized next Wednesday, September 4th.
In their announcement, CJNU directors allayed any fears of their listeners that the station’s format may change. “The same great easy listening music will continue, introduced by your favourite program hosts,” reads the announcement. “We will also present regular news and sports updates, brought to you by our community partners at the Winnipeg Foundation, as well as other special programming.”
CJNU will also continue to reflect and promote many worthwhile nonprofit organizations through their host sponsorship program. This includes live broadcasts from venues like the Stroke Recovery Association and Variety, the Children’s Charity. September’s host sponsor will be Kiwanis Chateau, a unique 55 Plus housing alternative in downtown Winnipeg.
The launch at 93.7 FM, as a fully licensed radio station, is the realization of what began in 2006 as a dream in the minds of a small group of hardworking volunteers. It has included a number of experienced broadcasters, led by the late Garry Robertson, who will sadly not be there when they throw the switch on September 4th.
For full details on how to become a member of the Nostalgia Broadcasting Cooperative, a CJNU advertising partner, or a volunteer in the exciting world of community radio, visit the CJNU website.