The events of the weekend of February 20 and 21 focused national attention on Kalamazoo. Unfortunately, the shootings brought the kind of notoriety that no one desires. But when news of this nature does break and needs to be told, I am pleased that WMUK News is there to respond. Most importantly, I was proud that this national news story was told by and/or with the help and input of those who live here in our community- our WMUK News Staff.
In the wake of the shootings, WMUK filed five stories for use on NPR newscasts on Sunday, February 21 and Monday, February 22. WMUK worked with Michigan Public Radio Network (MPRN) Bureau Chief Rick Pluta in creating interviews and features about the incident for All Things Considered, Morning Edition, and other national public radio network programs.
WMUK staff also interviewed WMU President John Dunn at the station Sunday afternoon to address student complaints about a lack of warning about the shootings via the university's alert system. WMUK News staff members also spoke to WMU students about this issue.
WMUK had several stories related to the shooting on Monday, February 22, including coverage of a church vigil the previous night and the arraignment of the accused shooter. Additional coverage was provided on our website and through social media.
Coverage of this tragedy involved the entire WMUK news staff. This incident vividly demonstrated the value of our news staff's service to our audience and its capability when a crisis occurs. I continue to remind our listeners that WMUK is the only locally owned news source in our community. At a time when other news sources in Kalamazoo have decreased or moved away, the importance of WMUK News' competent staff and coverage has been dramatically underscored by recent events
