Roberts showcases the new system for cancellation and delays of schools, businesses and government offices; stresses the importance of coordination between the media, public and private sectors in keeping Rhode Islanders safe and informed
PROVIDENCE — With winter weather and school cancellations just around the corner, Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts showcased a new web-based system for cancellation and delays of schools, businesses and government offices. Station managers and officials from member news outlets of the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association joined Roberts to unveil the new system that streamlines communications between the media and the public and private sectors. Lt. Gov. Roberts hailed the new system as an effective communications tool that will keep Rhode Islanders safer and more informed.
“This new web-based cancellation and delay system will play an incredibly important role in sending out vital messages to broadcasters and the communities that they serve,” Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts said. “Coordination and communication between the media and the public and private sectors is crucial in keeping Rhode Islanders safe from and I want to commend the Rhode Island Broadcasters for spearheading this important project.”
The cancellation and delay program is a secure web-based system. Administrators of businesses, schools, and government offices will make notice of the cancellation/ delay/ dismissal on the Rhode Island Broadcasters website at www.ribroadcasters.com. The data will immediately be available in real time to all participating radio and television stations as well as on their websites. Businesses, schools, and government offices not yet participating in the new system are urged to contact the Rhode Island Broadcasters at www.ribroadcasters.com.
Rhode Islanders will also be able to register to receive notifications to their own cell phones, PDAs, and email addresses by logging onto their favorite radio or television website. Radio and television stations will also be running commercials on their stations notifying viewers and listeners of this option.
Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts was joined this afternoon by Barbara Haynes, President of RI Broadcasters and General Manager of Citadel Broadcasting; Jay Howell, General Manager of WPRI Fox Providence; Lisa Churchville, General Manager of WJAR NBC10; Bob Fish, CEO of Rhode Island PBS- WSBE Ch. 36; Lori Needham, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association; and John Pini, President of the Rhode Island Superintendents Association.
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