by Josh Swan
CKLN’s new slogan, “the above ground underground,” fits well.
The alternative radio station’s new location on the second floor of Ryerson’s Student Campus Centre is the station’s first above-ground home since it began broadcasting in 1979.
Last Thursday, staff and listeners celebrated the new location by holding tours and an open house.
Mike Phillips has been working at CKLN since he moved to Toronto from Victoria four years ago.
“When I got here … I was horrified to find (CKLN) surviving on string and ceiling wax,” Phillips, 64, told a packed second floor of the SCC. He said staff were stressed and equipment was failing. But Phillips said with the station in its new home, things are getting better.
“We’ve actually got a studio that works,” he said. “We are moving towards a point where we can survive, where we are safe.”
A brick wall of donors was unveiled at the event. Longtime listener Colin Martin bought the first brick during a CKLN fundraising drive last year.
“This (station) is a voice for the voiceless. We cannot let it go the way of the dinosaur,” said Martin. “I enjoy each and every program I listen to…CKLN is a home away from home for me.”
CKLN kicks off fundFEST, its annual fundraising drive, Oct. 21. The goal is to rasie $100,000 by Oct. 31. Check out Ckln.fm for more info.
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