Re: EAS

[Rob Landry <umar@nerodia.wcrb.com>]

On Tue, 12 Jan 1999, Bill O'Neill wrote:

> Just heard the WBZ initiated EAS test on WXRV (92.5, Haverhill) at
> 2:16 p.m., right over the music audio!  Something tells me that isn't
> the spirit of regs. that drive EAS!

On WCRB, it's very common for Required Monthly Tests to interrupt pieces
of music. The regulations say the tests can't be delayed more than 15
minutes, and many of WCRB's pieces of music are longer than that.  I've
complained to the FCC about it, and their response has been: tough shit --
The Rules are The Rules.

Incidentally, I recently heard that the program director of another
classical station, furious when the EAS box interrupted music while he was
listening, ordered the plug pulled on it. Screw the rules -- he wasn't
going to alienate his listeners for some stupid test.  And that, boys and
girls, was that.

WCRB, however, continues to air the tests. Our company has always been
very scrupulous about adhering to FCC rules and regulations.

Rob Landry
umar@nerodia.wcrb.com

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