I shared a wonderful experience this evening with an entire hall of friends and neighbors. These were folks I have seen around town for years; at the market, the Horticultural Society or town hall meetings. Some I know well. Some I had met before. Some I met for the first time tonight. They were all lovely and welcoming. We packed boxes for Nevada County residents who are currently abroad, serving in the armed forces. I was able to meet families of local men and women and hear some of their stories.

Earlier in the day I ran into Joanna Robinson at Booktown Books where she was joining a friend for coffee. We took the opportunity to discuss the response of KVMR listeners to a request she made the previous Friday on the morning show. It was a simple request-guests at Hospitality House needed sleeping bags. Our listeners immediately responded when they learned of the need. They always do.

To many of us it seems so simple. A kind word and the reminder that someone is thinking about us, or the most basic necessities like food and shelter. But many in our community, whether they're temporarily away from home as in the case of our military, or simply homeless, don't have access to that which we take for granted.

I've noticed that an appreciation of the ability to learn of these needs and the chance to participate in providing assistance appears to be imbedded in the fiber of those who choose to support KVMR.

One of the greatest rewards of being on the board of KVMR Community Radio is the opportunity to participate and interact with local non-profit organizations on KVMR's behalf. There are hundreds of local, state, national and international not for- profit organizations who call Nevada County home. All of them have the opportunity to tell their story on KVMR's airwaves.

KVMR is truly the voice of the community. The airwaves are available to all, regardless of ethnic background, religious belief, sexual preference, gender or political affiliation.

When there is an event to be promoted, a fund raiser to be advertised, a group seeking support, news to be shared, a neighbor in need, or a flood ravaged New Orleans in crisis, KVMR provides the space to share the news and ask for help. KVMR listeners and supporters have jumped at the opportunity to provide whatever they are able to contribute.

KVMR: Official Nevada County Emergency Station

KVMR has been named as the official Nevada County Emergency Station, the place to tune in the event of emergency in Nevada County. We were chosen as we are the only station in western Nevada County with a live broadcaster in the booth 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week. We are the only station reaching both western Nevada County and the Truckee region. We are the only station able to provide immediate continuous coverage at anytime of the day or night.

When you go to bed with your radio tuned to 89.5 (or 105.1 in Truckee/Tahoe) you may rest assured that your radio/alarm clock will wake you with the latest in emergency news and information. All of the rest of the time we'll keep you up to date with what's happening around town as we continue to provide a place for all to share their upcoming events and any needs local non-profits may currently have.

By Joey Jordon, KVMR's Board President