There is only one radio station where shows like “In Da Mixx,” “Gospel Essence,” “Who’s Partying” and “Polish Heritage” come together. WVOF 88.5 is composed of roughly 300 students, members of the community and alumni hosting over 50 shows ranging from contemporary, rock and urban.
“Our show is very loosely spirited. We have fun with it,” said Rick Briamonte ’03, co-host of Fairfield’s only live sports talk show, “Rick and The Rainman.” Both he and his co-host, Mike Rupp ’03, have been a part of WVOF since their junior year and have continued to be a part of the radio station as alumni. “We love the feeling of knowing that we are entertaining someone. We get many calls from listeners,” said Briamonte.
“Getting a radio show is very easy,” said Program Director Ben Manchak ’05. “There are no requirements.” WVOF offers training in the new web studio, which is a fully functioning FM broadcast station that airs on the website.
“We provide the best programming on the FM station. It has become very competitive,” said Station Manager Nick Mercadante ’04.
Over the past three years, since the station’s move from Regis Hall to the Barone Campus Center, the directors have worked on organizing the on- air schedule.
“On weekdays, we have a blocking format. In the morning we have contemporary and light music, in the afternoon we have rock, which is mostly independent, and on the evenings we have urban, mostly hip-hop,” said Mercadante. “The weekends are very eclectic. We try to incorporate many cultural programs.”
In addition to providing radio shows, WVOF works with local and national bands to offer concerts. The station recently kicked off the first ever Battle of the Bands with Sacred Heart. Auditions were held and each Thursday night until May 6th bands from Fairfield and Sacred Heart will contend at Angus Steak House for the top three prizes of a paid gig and dinner for ten people. Marketing Director Kristine Poplawski ’04 hopes that the event will “expand fan base and promote the bands.”
Tonight WVOF is sponsoring Ted Leo and the Pharmacists at the Levee. The last album the band release was Hearts of Oak. They are currently on tour playing new songs and are hitting the recording studio in May. A free event for students, doors open at 6:30 and drink specials will be offered.
“National bands are starting to come to us, asking us if they can play here,” said Mercadante. “I’m amazed on how much the station has changed over the years and how many people have gotten involved. It has made an impact on the campus.”
WVOF holds monthly meetings at 6 p.m. on Thursday nights, and new members are always welcome.
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