In this guest commentary, Bob Young, manager of KNYO(LP) in Fort Bragg, Calif., provides an update to our February 2023 story “Having Lost Its Tree, KNYO Needs a New Radio Tower.” Comment on this or any article. Email [email protected].
The saga of the KNYO(LP) Ft. Bragg antenna continues with some unforeseen challenges and the support of the local community.
After the unfortunate event of the 70-foot bishop pine tree, along with the antenna, collapsing in January 2023, as documented in the Feb. 21, 2023 edition of Radio World, KNYO took swift action to acquire a Special Temporary Authorization (STA) from the FCC.
With the STA in hand, they proceeded to mount the antenna and coax onto a 25-foot mast as a temporary solution. However, their journey was far from over as they now faced the bureaucratic hurdles of installing an antenna in downtown Fort Bragg.
In early October, a thunderstorm passed through the area, leading to an unexpected loss of signal. The KNYO team immediately began troubleshooting the issue but realized they lacked the necessary equipment and expertise to pinpoint the problem accurately.
Fortunately, fate was on their side when they were contacted by Derek Hoyle, president of the Mendocino County Amateur Radio Communications Service (McARCS), who came to their aid. Accompanied by members Dennis, Bruce, Stan and Andy, the McARCS team conducted extensive testing to identify the root cause of the signal loss.
Through their thorough investigation, it was discovered that the lightning arrestor had sustained damage, and several connectors needed replacement. It appeared that a lightning strike and weather damage were to blame for the antenna malfunction.
With the necessary repairs completed, KNYO eagerly raised the 25-foot mast, and their signal was restored, putting them back on the air.
KNYO would like to specifically thank Derek, Dennis, Bruce, Stan, Andy and any other members of McARCS who had contributed their time, skills and expertise to help resolve their antenna issues. Also, thanks to Sean Keppeler, as well as the entire community of Ft. Bragg. KNYO would not have been able to overcome these challenges without the unwavering support they have received.
The KNYO Ft. Bragg antenna saga serves as a testament to the power of community and the generosity of individuals who come together in times of need. It also highlights the dedication and resilience of the KNYO team, who continue to navigate obstacles with determination and resourcefulness.
As they resume broadcasting, the station looks forward to providing their listeners with quality programming and staying connected with the community they hold dear.
