UNB Saint John’s on-campus radio station, Local FM, is launching a week-long fundraising campaign from March 24th to March 30th, kicking off at 1pm. Read more to learn about what Local FM offers on campus, its rich history, and the people behind it. 

Bailey Young/The Baron

Local FM has operated from the UNB Saint John campus as a licensed broadcaster since 2001, catering to the Saint John community at large as well as the university itself. Its origins, however, tell the story of a little university radio club in the 1970s with a broadcasting radius comparable to the campus’s parking lot today—an issue that has since been vastly improved, with the frequency of Local FM now covering much of the city.  

With a variety of shows catering to many audiences, including classical music, metal, spoken word, and even video game soundtracks, Local FM represents some truly diverse programming.  

"Obviously, the people listening to our poetry show aren’t the same as the ones tuning into the metal show," Local FM’s Station Manager, Brandon Logan, shared their thoughts on the variety of Local FM’s programming. The discussion made it clear that each show has its own audience, and that’s a large part of what makes it unique. 

This year’s fundraiser, the first in many years, aims to raise $1,000 to replace the station’s aging computer.  

"The current computer is confirmed to be over five years old, possibly much older. It’s slowing down, and if it freezes during an episode, it can cause silence on air, which is a major issue." Brandon explained.  

Throughout the fundraiser week, hosts will be putting in extra hours, and some programs will feature special extended editions. An in-person event is also planned at Haven Music Hall on Union Street, a queer-owned venue that has become a gathering space for local artists and musicians. Attendees can pick up the newly launched Queercus zine and take part in an open mic night.  

"The zine is completely free," Brandon said. "It includes important resources, like a list of gender-neutral bathrooms in the city and ways to access local support services." 

As a non-profit, Local FM relies heavily on community support to stay on the air.  All funds raised during the weeklong campaign will go directly back into the station or the greater community, including the printing costs of the Queercus zine. Brandon emphasized during the interview, “We (Local FM) are a community place. Community is our focus. Our name is literally Local FM, which I think is very important.” 

Bailey Young/The Baron

For those interested in contributing, donations can be made online through Local FM’s website, and anyone interested in joining the station with their very own show can submit program proposals. The Local FM station is located on the second floor of the Thomas J. Condon Student Centre, just down the hall from the Baron’s own office. 

The fundraising week kicks off on Monday, March 24th at 1 p.m., and the Local FM team welcomes visitors to drop by the station to have a look around. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of their impressive wall-to-wall CD collection! 

"I’ll be here all week, and the door will be open," Brandon said. "If people want to see exactly where their money is going, they’re more than welcome to come in and take a look." 

If you’re interested in learning more about Local FM, you can visit their website at localfm.ca, email the station manager Brandon Logan using manager@cfmh.ca, or tune in live at 107.3FM. Don’t have access to an FM radio, but still want to tune in? You can download Radiogram on Android or in the App Store to listen live over the internet.