Group wants to put local community talent on the airwaves

For the first time in more than 14 years, the Federal Communications Commission is offering organizations with educational missions an opportunity to apply for a full-power FM station.

Travis Rice, a member of the nonprofit group Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, said it is time Reno had a community radio station that can reflect its culture. He said PLAN is working to take advantage of the opportunity to apply for a new, noncommercial radio frequency in Reno.

Organizer Ireri Rivas said PLAN is hoping to bring new music, news, art and culture over the airwaves.

"I feel that there's a need for people to feel like they own their media and what they're being fed," Rivas said. "To say that the local media isn't doing that is to go too far, but I think there's a need for a more hands-on approach."

PLAN must raise $5,000. The group's first fundraiser was held on Friday at the Green Room, where there was cover charge to see performances by Laura Gibson, Divine Cacophony, MC Fernie Fresh and others.

"What is happening at the Green Room is changing Reno," Rice said.

Armando Laguna, 30, of Reno said he looks forward to hearing quality local music every weekend at the Green Room.

Jared Hirshland, 25, of Reno said he's tired of hearing the same popular hits on the radio and said he hopes to hear greater diversity on a new radio station.

"It's either Lynyrd Skynyrd or My Chemical Romance on the radio," Hirshland said. "It's kind of sad. If you listen to the same stuff over and over again, you get left behind."

Rivas said PLAN is taking the lead on the application process but is open to collaboration, so more local voices can be heard.

"PLAN will not be the only one running the show, so we're looking to get more community groups and individuals to help," Rivas said.

Rice said PLAN sought involvement by Rainshadow Community Charter High School, which teaches multimedia production, civic involvement and current events. The radio station would be able to broadcast stories and music the students produce.

Patrick "Mojo" Rogers, 41, of Reno said it is important to support local bands that create music that is relevant to Reno by playing them on the airwaves and in live venues. He said much radio music reflects what record labels want to promote.

"We want culture in this town, and this is where it starts," Rogers said.

Musicians also look for inspiration in new music. The top

40 songs in any genre don't cut it for many performers who are looking to discover a new sound.

Ernie Upton, also known by his stage name MC Fernie Fresh, said in his hometown of Sacramento it has four community radio stations which broadcast a wide variety of music ranging from polka to gangster rap.

"It's stuff you couldn't find on your own, which is why I like it," Upton said.

Upton, in turn, inspired other musicians. Chris Hunziker of Switzerland, who raps freestyle in his home country, said he came to the venue to study and enjoy MC Fernie Fresh's style.

"I have to learn from these guys," Hunziker said.

Rice said the nonprofit status of the radio station will make it easier to keep overhead low, which can keep advertising costs low and make it possible to promote community events that would not be heard on commercial stations.

"It's a great way to organize a community and bring people together," Rice said.

To get in touch with PLAN and help with their radio effort call (775) 348-7557.