You are currently viewing Black Power 96 Radio reflects on 2024; kicks off 2025 with a call for community support in February Fund Drive

Black Power 96 Radio reflects on 2024; kicks off 2025 with a call for community support in February Fund Drive

As February begins, Black Power 96 Radio remains committed to empowering the African community in the St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay area and beyond.

This month brings exciting events and programming while also highlighting the need for continued support to sustain the station’s critical work.

The February Fund Drive is underway, calling on listeners to help raise funds to keep Black Power 96.3 FM on the air.

A highlight of the drive will be the Gospel Benefit Concert: For the Love of Jesus on Saturday, Feb. 15 at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church, located at 2580 12th Ave S in St. Petersburg.

Doors open at 4:00 p.m., and the show begins at 5:00 p.m., featuring performances by Natasha Cash, Reverend Fleming Tarver and the Original Florida Spiritualaires. Tickets are available at BlackPower96.org/Gospel or by visiting the station.

Why We Need Your Support

Support for Black Power 96 FM is more important than ever.

Funds raised during the February Fund Drive will be used for:

  • Emergency Alert System (EAS) equipment updates to meet FCC requirements.
  • Covering operational costs to keep the station live and thriving
  • Legal costs for the station’s ongoing federal lawsuit demanding that the Pinellas County Commission restore the $100,000 in federal COVID relief funds for which the station qualified.

Competition from new commercial station

A new commercial radio station is attempting to encroach on Black Power 96’s audience with a classic R&B format that was once only heard in St. Pete on 96.3.

They brand themselves as “the people’s station,” but it’s just another corporate-controlled conglomerate looking to make money off of African talent.

They try to copy Black Power 96’s style, but this commercial station offers no platform for community voices or grassroots connections.

Black Power 96 Radio’s listeners have expressed their appreciation for the station’s unwavering dedication.

A local listener noted, “BP96 isn’t just a station— it’s a lifeline. They were there for us during the hurricanes, and they’re here every day, giving us news, music, and a voice.”

Another Black Power 96 Radio supporter shared, “This station is more than entertainment; it’s empowerment. They’re fighting for us when no one else will.”

Listener support is critical as the station faces ongoing challenges, including gentrification and external competition.

Contribute to the Fund Drive at BlackPower96.org/Donate.

Looking Ahead to 2025

In 2025, Black Power 96 Radio plans to expand its programming to address health, wealth and empowerment for the African community, launch media training workshops for youth and adults, host more community events, and continue advocacy efforts against colonialism.

The station remains steadfast in its mission to amplify African voices and foster community empowerment.

As we celebrate our achievements and look forward to the future, we need your help. Support Black Power 96 FM by donating, attending events, and spreading the word.

Together, we can ensure that this vital community resource not only survives but thrives.

And as you’ll hear the station manager, the world’s best blind DJ, Eddie Maultsby say, “We’re not just explaining the world, but changing it!”

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