Hampton Announces Emergency Radio Station Agreement
with Hampton University's WHOV 88.1

February 21, 2008

The City of Hampton recently signed an agreement with Hampton University's WHOV 88.1 FM to become the city's official emergency radio station. WHOV 88.1 FM will broadcast Hampton-exclusive information every 15 minutes during declared local emergencies.

"This is another example of our city's many partnerships with Hampton University and is an important step in offering Hampton citizens direct information from the city in the case of an emergency," said Mayor Ross Kearney. "During Hurricane Isabel, when there were long power outages, citizens relied heavily on the radio for updates. WHOV 88.1 FM will offer citizens an avenue to receive continuous up-to-date information regarding school closings, debris pickup, and sheltering information in Hampton."

"Hampton University and the City of Hampton have an exceptional working relationship," said HU President Dr. William R. Harvey. "We are pleased to partner with the City to offer the citizens of Hampton emergency information on WHOV 88.1 FM."

WHOV 88.1 FM will replace Hampton's previous emergency radio station, 1490AM. 1490AM served as the city's emergency station for three years until it was sold in 2007.

In addition to emergency updates, WHOV 88.1 FM will broadcast Hampton City Council meetings live the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month.

During a declared emergency, all Hampton citizens are encouraged to tune in to WHOV 88.1 FM, visit the city's website www.hampton.gov or call 311 (727-8311 outside of Hampton or from a mobile phone) for emergency information.