It is ironic that the college with the oldest radio station in Florida has a big population of students who are unaware that such a station even exists, but unfortunately this is the case at Rollins. For those who were unaware, Rollins is host of 91.5 WPRK, “The best in basement radio.” Its first broadcast was on Dec. 10, 1952, when then- President Eisenhower made an announcement to the nearby Florida community.
Although the station may not be broadcast oft en by students at Rollins, it has a large following within a 30-mile radius of the Orlando/Winter Park community. Some of WPRK’s DJs are from this community and have been DJing with the station for over 20 years.
WPRK even attempted the world record for having the longest consecutive on-air DJ session by DJ Dave Plotkin, at 110 hours. The non-profit station also contributes to the community by hosting shows at venues such as Hard Rock Live Orlando, and having local and traveling bands come by the station for interviews and performances.
Despite the involvement of outside volunteers, WPRK remains a completely student-run organization. The director staff comprises all Rollins students who make most of the station’s decisions. One of the coolest and most unique characteristics of WPRK is that it is non-commercial and does not have to follow the pressures that a corporate radio station might experience. It prides itself on playing a huge variety of genres, ranging from folk, indie, reggae, dubstep and everything in between.
WPRK has a show and a DJ for everyone. One of the most popular shows is DJ Justice’s show on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m., where he oft en talks about issues from the LGBT community. Fellow Rollins student BJ Neller ’11 plays new music, ranging from electronic jazz; dubstep; house; electro hip hop; and other styles from 3 to 5 p.m. on Fridays.
One of newest additions to the station’s line-up is Holt student Leah Puzzo’s show on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, which consists of alternative and experimental music. Assistant Station Manager Casey Korge ’13 plays indie music on Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Korge loves call-ins and playing requests from listeners. She says, “I work for WPRK because it is an amazing opportunity to connect with and serve the Orlando community through something I am very passionate about: music.”
Working with WPRK is a great way to get involved on campus and in the Orlando community, not to mention it is a way to receive great opportunities to meet amazing people and musicians. If you are interested, come to one of the WPRK team meetings on Thursdays at 1 p.m. For more information, e-mail lsilvestri@rollins.edu or bneller@rollins.edu, or at least turn the radio “left of the dial” and tune in to hear your fellow Rollins students and some fantastic music.
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