A ETSU volunteer group consisting of students, faculty and staff, working with community members and organizations are the force behind a weekly half-hour radio program, “Environmental News,” devoted to creating greater awareness of environmental issues in the region.
The program, which airs Sunday evenings, 6:30-7 p.m., on WETS-FM, the campus public radio station, and on WMMT in Whitesburg, Ky., has recently featured items on the eco-policies of both major United States presidential candidates, what to do if confronted by an angry black bear, and an update on the encroachment of a gravel quarry on the Roan highlands.
Students in the English department have become involved as part of a service-learning option in courses offered during the past two years.
Many have chosen to continue as volunteers, serving as writers and announcers for the program.
Their instructor, Dr. Kevin O’Donnell, joins them in those duties, as well as helping with production.
“I have learned a lot about producing a radio show just by being involved in one, but I’ve also learned about the political and societal implications of environmental decisions made each day,” student volunteer Kathy Hallen-beck said.
“I hope I can help in some way to raise awareness of others by taking a small part in the show.”
Josh Kinser, ETSU senior and a volunteer added,, “I would like to see more students involved; it is their land, their water, and this is their opportunity to have a voice while learning more about issues.”
Other English department personell offering their talents include Drs. Fred Waage, Tess Lloyd and Ted Olsen, who is also director of ETSU’s Appalachian, Scottish and Irish Studies program.
Olsen creates the “Green Songs” segments of the program, featuring American music about nature and the environment. ETSU’s Frosty Levy, biological sciences professor, has done many original investigative pieces related to the Cherokee National Forest.
Several community volunteers have been involved in the program over the years, including Don Sluder of Johnson City, who handles many of the announcing duties, Dean Whitworth, local activist and actor, and Elaine Walker, who contributes as a writer and announcer. Jane Ensign of Kingsport is executive producer.
“Environmental News” first aired in March 1993 as a 15 min-ute show under the guidance of founders Pete Zars, Jane Ensign, Kristen Zimet and Arthur Smith, a well-known “eco-warrior” and force behind the program until his death last December.
The program is sponsored by the State of Franklin Chapter of the Sierra Club and is affiliated with Cherokee Forest Voices, a local forest watchdog group.
Volunteers meet to produce and tape the show every Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Anyone who wishes to get involved with the environmental program call O’Donnell at 439-6679.

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