Description

In a relatively short history, Public Radio in Hampton Roads, Virginia has emerged as a most important cultural and educational asset to the urban community. The dynamic growth of the Hampton Roads urban infrastructure is the result of several political, economic, and cultural factors. Public Radio has been one of these factors and has served as a catalyst for change and growth in the community. This study focuses upon Public Radio stations WHRO-FM and WHRV-FM and the elements, which brought about their historical development. The study concludes with several findings,including: WHRO-FM and WHRV-FM are model Public Broadcasting entities and provide a key resource for urban development; the stations provide urban amplification of issues and education by broadcasting news and public affairs programs which are significant to the Hampton Roads region; Public Radio stations WHRO-FM and WHRV-FM have had a dramatic impact upon the growth and emergence of cultural arts related functions in Southeastern Virginia.