February 6, 2006
Prince George's Very First Radio Station Is 60 Years Old!
February 6, 2006 (Prince George, BC) - Prince George's Classic Rock, 99.3 The Drive is celebrating its 60th anniversary this99.3 The Drive Wednesday, February 8th. CKPG began broadcasting at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, February 8, 1946. The station changed positions on the dial from 1230 AM to 550 AM over the years and remained there until the spring of 2003 when Prince George's heritage station moved to the FM band and became 99.3 The Drive.
The original station began with a 250-watt transmitter with a staff of three, including: Cecil Elphicke, Managing Director; Jack Carbutt, Announcer; and Ray Tate, Engineer. It was the only radio station in the city for nearly 25 years and as former Mayor of the City, Jack Nicholson stated back in 1946, "CKPG will make us better and closer neighbours".
The station was the start for countless on air personalities, sales staff and many other talented people who have moved on. Well respected broadcasters like Brian "Frosty" Forst, Don Prentice, and the late Bob Harkins started their broadcast careers at the legendary station.
Throughout the month of February, Prince George's Classic Rock will honour the anniversary by featuring historical vignettes, including interviews and greetings from former personalities.
Beginning today, in association with Anne Louise Jewellers, 99.3 The Drive will present the $5,000 60th Anniversary Classic "Rock" Give-Away. Details on this exciting contest are found at www.993thedrive.com.
Over the years, ownership, people and programming has evolved, but the station's commitment to the community of Prince George hasn't. Today The Jim Pattison Broadcast Group in Prince George is home to 65 dedicated staff, who together work to produce award winning local programming. General Manager Ken Kilcullen says, "We're very proud of our history and association to BC's Northern Capital."
What started as a 250-watt AM station in the western frontier has grown to include 99.3 The Drive, 101.3 The River and PGTV. We would like to hear from former employees. Please contact Program Director Ron Polillo.
For more information, contact
Ron Polillo
Program Director
Tel: 250.960.1367
Email: rpolillo@ckpg.bc.ca
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