CIND-FM, Indie 88, Toronto
Rock 95 Broadcasting Ltd.
| Station | Year | Freq. | Power | Owner/Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CIND-FM | 2013 | 88.1 | 532 | Rock 95 Broadcasting Ltd. |
2012
On September 11, The CRTC approved the application by Rock 95 Broadcasting Ltd. for a licence to operate a new commercial FM station in Toronto. The station would broadcast on 88.1 MHz (channel 201A) with an average effective radiated power of 532 watts (maximum ERP of 875 watts with an effective height of antenna above average terrain of 328.4 metres). It would offer an Indie format with a target audience of adults 18-49 years (core: adults 18-34 years). The licence would expire August 31, 2019.
2013
CIND-FM broadcast a music stream online from the day it was licenced until July 25 when it was announced the station would launch on July 31 at 12 noon. During this period in July, Indie 88 (“Giving Great Music A Home”) began stunting on-air with a constant loop of Rick Astley’s song, “Never Gonna Give You Up”. July 31 was to be a soft launch of the station with the official opening date set for September 3. CIND-FM used the frequency formerly occupied by CKLN-FM. Rock 95 Broadcasting Ltd. was the owner of stations Rock 95 and 107.5 Kool FM in Barrie.
Megan Bingley was general manager. Adam Thompson was program director. Long-time CFNY-FM music director and personality Alan Cross was a music counsellor and consultant for the new station, and Raina Douris was music director and afternoon host.
Indie 88 launched July 31 at 12:00 p.m. The first song was Arcade Fire’s “Ready to Start.”
Studios and offices were at 31R Atlantic Avenue in Toronto’s Liberty Village.
On November 1, the CRTC approved the application by Rock 95 Broadcasting Ltd. to increase the average ERP of CIND-FM from 532 to 2,100 watts (maximum ERP increasing from 875 watts to 4,000 watts) and to decrease the effective height of antenna above average terrain from 328.4 to 281 metres.
On December 1, Indie88 officially increased power to provide a better signal across the GTA.
2017
In October, Indie88 laid off four staff members: Christina Fitzgerald (PD), Morgan Sheppard (promotions), and digital staffers Ryan Parker and Danielle Subject. Fitzgerald remained in her position until Rogers Kingston PD Ian March assumed the role later in the year.
2018
In June, the CRTC turned down a request from Indie 88 to increase the station’s power from 4,000 to 12,000 watts and increase its antenna height. The commission said CIND failed to demonstrate a compelling economic or technical need.
2019
Dave Bookman passed away at the age of 58 on May 21. Bookman joined CFNY-FM in 1991. Over his 21 years at CFNY, Bookman hosted The Indie Hour and later did afternoon drive. He joined Indie88 in 2013.
On June 14, the CRTC approved CIND’s application to increase power from 4,000 to 12,000 watts. EHAAT would rise from 281 to 298 metres.
The story continues elsewhere…
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