LIBERTY, NY — WJFF Radio at 90.5FM is a 24-hour “listener-supported public radio station,” founded in 1990, and is a part of the NYS public radio exchange. There are two full-time and two-part time employees, and 117 volunteers, four of whom help in the office.

Originally located in Jeffersonville, the station recently took advantage of a generous donation and moved to a four-acre site in Liberty, formerly occupied by Catskill Harvest. It has converted from analog broadcasting to digital, and is now accessible online through a phone app or livestreaming. There is now a community room, housing three phone stations for call-in donations, and large enough for conferences and performances.

On July 26, there was a ribbon-cutting celebration to officially launch the new site. It was attended by local leaders, staff, volunteers and supporters. Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther spoke about her efforts in lobbying for the new building and helping to raise $150,000. She was also instrumental in raising a total of $4 million to benefit Sullivan County and surrounding areas. She goes on air to speak about her efforts to benefit the community and arouse public awareness. Aide Matt Phillips was also present.

Manager and program director Tim Bruno spoke about the combined efforts of his staff and volunteers in bringing about the fruition of the new site “only one year after groundbreaking,” and his role as steward of the station for the benefit of the public.

“This building is the physical manifestation of everyone’s efforts over the years to make it happen—from board members to community members to volunteers and staff. This is the representation of all that hard work, and it’s so great to be here and feel like we’ve accomplished something together. I’m so proud of all of us.” he said.

The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce was represented by its president and CEO Jaime Schmeiser, board member Marie Smith and Geri Neumann.

Sullivan County legislator Luis Alvarez, whose district includes Liberty, described his concerns for the Hispanic community and elections, and is on call to go on the air. George Kinne, president of Jeff Bank, came to show his support, as well as Liberty town supervisor Frank DeMayo. The Sullivan County Visitors’ Association, with 600 members including the station, was represented by its president and CEO Roberta Byron-Lockwood. And Dan Hust, Sullivan County director of communications, was also in attendance.

“We’re built a state-of-the-art radio station for all of those who listen now and for those who come after us. It’s not about me or us. It’s about the community. After all, public radio is for the public,” Bruno said.