April 23, 2008

Dear Listeners,

A new radio frequency has been proposed for Quebec that would make it impossible to hear VPR on 107.9 in much of the Eastern Townships. If approved by the CRTC, you would lose access to VPR as an English language public radio station. Your voice is essential in speaking out before April 30th.

» WHAT CAN I DO?

Call or write to the CRTC online to let them know you oppose this application. Due to the short deadline (4/30/08) please call or email rather than sending a letter via regular mail. Click here for instructions on how to file your complaint online immediately.

» WHO DOES THIS AFFECT?

Click to view a coverage map of the areas affected (pdf)

» WHY DO I NEED TO TAKE ACTION?

A new radio frequency has been proposed for eastern Quebec. This new frequency would make it impossible to hear VPR on 107.9 in a large portion of the Eastern Townships, as illustrated on this map.

If approved by the Canadian regulatory body, the CRTC, listeners in places like Hadley, Magog, Knowlton, Stanstead, and many other communities close to the Vermont border would lose access to VPR and NPR programming. Click here for detailed background information.

VPR has done everything it can within the Canadian regulatory process to object to this application.

But the most powerful voice is yours.

We're asking you to write or call the CRTC and let them know you do not want to lose VPR.

The deadline is April 30th, so it's important to act quickly.

Below is the address and phone number for the CRTC. Click here for a sample letter that you can personalize send to the CRTC online.

There are hundreds of loyal VPR listeners in the Eastern Townships. Your listenening and ongoing financial support has been an important part of VPR's success. We're counting on you now to help preserve VPR in your community.

Sincerely,

Mark Vogelzang
President & General Manager
Vermont Public Radio

How to File Your Complaint Online

Submitting your comments to the CRTC via the website form is the fastest, easiest way to register your opposition with the CRTC and to ensure it is received before the April 30, 2008 deadline. To do so, follow these instructions:

1. Click here for the CRTC email form: French | English

2. From the list provided, select Application "200803321 - 591991 B.C. Ltd.". Click "Next".

3. From the drop-down box, select "Opposition" and, in the comments box, type your reasons for opposing this application OR upload your own letter stating your opposition (click here for a sample letter that you can personalize and send). Click "Next".

4. From the drop-down box, indicate whether you do or do not want to appear at an Oral Public Hearing. Click "Next".

5. Provide your personal information, and click "Next" to complete the process.

6. Send a copy of your comments to 591991 B.C. Ltd.,

181 Bay Street
Suite 1630
Toronto, Ontario
M5J 2T3
Fax: 416-642-3779
E-Mail: sylvie.courtemanche@corusent.com

Additional CRTC Contact Information

By mail:

CRTC
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada, K1A 0N2
Please note: due to the April 30 deadline, we encourage you to phone or email the CRTC as those are the fastest methods.

CRTC Website

Questions for Vermont Public Radio
If you have questions about this issue, please call us or send us an email.