Emmis Communications flagship WIBC-FM Indianapolis teamed up with Scripps’ WRTV-TV (ABC) to raise money and help speed relief to the victims of recent tornados in Southern Indiana. The broadcasters worked together to collect money for the Salvation Army Indiana Division.
The WIBC/RTV 6 Tornado Relief Drive took place in drive-thru fashion in downtown Indianapolis on Tuesday, March 6th, and nearly $46,000 in cash was collected during the 12-hour event. WIBC’s Terri Stacy is pictured receiving a check from an Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer.
In addition to the drive-thru event, the local community was also encouraged to drop off donations in Red Kettles at local area Jiffy Lube locations; on-line through both station websites; via text to give; or via the Salvation Army national phone line. Totals are still being counted from web, phone, and text; and Red Kettles will remain at Jiffy Lube throughout the week. .
RBR-TVBR has reported on several efforts by broadcasters to aid the tornado victims and those radio and TV stations were hailed by NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith. “NAB salutes the remarkable efforts of our broadcast colleagues in tornado-stricken areas of the country in recent days. Local stations have saved lives with breaking coverage of these emergency weather situations, and are leading the fundraising relief efforts to rebuild communities. These terrible tornadoes serve as a reminder that in an era of smartphones, iPads and Netflix, there is no substitute for the indispensable lifeline role of the local broadcaster,” Smith said.
