On January 2, 2013, Seattle became the latest in a string of progressive cities to inexplicably lose its only progressive talk station when KPTK AM1090 was switched to an all sports format.
What's a progressive radio enthusiast to do?
1. Stay silent
2. Bitch, whine and carry on
OR
3. Speak out, get feisty and bring progressive radio BACK to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
(OK ... so we’re doing BOTH 2 & 3)
Read more after the oddly alluring orange radio signal!
The change didn't happen without a fight. Two separate petition drives attracted almost 10,000 signatures, and a group of progressives banded together in the belief that progressive radio belongs on the free public airwaves (and beyond!).
Progressive Radio Northwest (PRNW) is a team of volunteers bringing progressive talk radio back to the Pacific Northwest.
Our mission is to:
-- Catalyze an invigorated platform to return strong-signal progressive talk to the greater Seattle area, and
-- Promote progressive programming on the free public airwaves and digital technologies.
In the last few months, PRNW has created a website, www.progressiveradionorthwest.org, sponsored free community forums on progressive radio, and reached out to area progressives and groups.
Progressive Radio ... the Next Frontier
We’re exploring several options, from creating a community owned station to taking over an existing frequency. We envision a station that features the inimitable insight and entertainment of Stephanie Miller, Ed Schultz, Thom Hartmann, Norman Goldman, Randi Rhodes, the Ring of Fire team and other national names, as well as stellar regional talent and a lively, ongoing discussion of local issues and community concerns.
Our main goal for 2014 is to develop a viable, creative, forward-looking business model that will match the community-building power of a terrestrial station with the exponential reach of streaming and complementary technologies.
"How can I help?" you ask ...
It's essential that we SHOW potential investors and advertisers that the Greater Puget Sound has the critical progressive mass to robustly support a progressive talk station.
Can you help spread the word about:
"Party On For Progressive Radio"
featuring national progressive talk show host Norman Goldman
-- A Festive Reunion for AM1090 Listeners
-- A Rally to Celebrate the Future of Progressive Talk in the Pacific Northwest
-- A Shout Out to AM1090 Advertisers
Saturday, January 18, 7:00 to 9:30 pm
Impact Hub Seattle
Click here for event details and to buy tickets.
PS ... we would also welcome any referrals you can provide to Seattle area progressive groups you think would be interested in our efforts, as well as suggestions you have for filling out the progressive radio resources section of the website.
Thank you for your time and (always) Party On!