In Buffalo, New York an unrelenting blizzard over the Christmas holiday left thousands without power and killed dozens of people. Once again, local radio played a huge role in helping disseminate life-saving information.
WBEN Radio remained fully staffed during the crisis using its regular local hosts and news staffers to provide critical updates, broadcast emergency press conferences, and update its digital platforms on a regular basis.
WBEN Operations Manager Tim Wenger hosted a Christmas Day morning show with his wife Susan Rose from their home in Orchard Park.
Longtime WBEN news anchor Tom Puckett was forced to spend days at the radio station.
“A very snowy Merry Christmas to all…I’m in the WBEN newsroom this morning, stranded by the Blizzard of 22!” Puckett said.
A local restaurant donated food to WBEN employees who were stuck at the radio during the snowstorm.
“Best Christmas gift for the crew @WBEN as the dedicated staff gained access to the Sunshine Cafe!” Tim Wenger tweeted. “Eggs and bacon for all and a re-energized staff to bring you the information you need. @TheJoeBeamer.”
WBEN opened its phone lines for people stranded in their cars. Hosts and reporters are credited with serving as a lifeline to people and reconnecting them with their loved ones. On Christmas, a local nurse shared with listeners that she was trying to get to her local hospital to relieve some of her co-workers who had worked several straight days.
Learn more about WBEN’s round-the-clock storm coverage by clicking this link.
