PEGASYS providing public access radio

By Robert Barron Staff Writer

August 22, 2006 12:36 am

— In the early days of radio, local stations provided their own programming featuring local entertainment.
That possibility is available now with an offering from Enid PEGASYS (Public Educational Governmental Access System) public access radio. The possibility always has been available, but until recently has not been used.
Now a PEGASYS member has begun broadcasting “George FM,” providing continuous music over the audio portion of PEGASYS. The audio airs on channel 19 behind the bulletin board and on channel 11 during non-programming times, said Wendy Quarles, PEGASYS executive director.
The program also will offer public affairs programs and public service announcements, but time is available for anyone. The current program “George FM” is on the air 24 hours a day and anyone can insert their program, she said.
“It’s hard to do live radio on it. New programs have to be prerecorded so we can put them in,” Quarles said.
The producer is liable for all content and copyright. Any music performed must have authorization of the author or composer through BMA or ASCAP or other organizations representing them. Original material could be done, however, she said.
“Any type of programming is all right, as long as it is non-commercial. You could do interviews, music, or even radio shows that are in the public domain; story time or a local talk show,” she said.
Quarles said the format also would be good for local bands or singing groups, if they perform their own material.
To put a program on PEGASYS public access radio an individual must be a member of PEGASYS.