Inuvik (Jan 22/07) - For all the talk about the Internet being the world's leading information technology, it doesn't appear to have replaced AM radio in some parts of the NWT.

Joanna Snowshoe reads announcements over CBQM radio in Fort McPherson. She is one of the many volunteers keeping AM radio alive in small communities of the Beaufort Delta. - Philippe Morin/NNSL photo

In communities of Fort McPherson, Paulatuk and Ulukhaktok/Holman, low-tech broadcasting continues to thrive, with community stations broadcasting on a shoestring budget.

Residents say it keeps people informed, allows community figures to speak on the airwaves, and can even reach hunters out on the land - which is something not even a Blackberry or wireless internet connection can boast.

In Fort McPherson, local AM station CBQM celebrated 25 years of broadcasting in December.

Sgt. Merle Carpenter said police have a regularly scheduled show on Tuesday mornings.

"In regards to an emergency situation, it's a good way to reach the community and let people know what's needed," he said, using the example of a missing-person search.

"I know the elders rely on the radio quite a bit."

One longtime volunteer, respected community elder Mary Teya, said she has good memories of the station going back to 1981.

"I don't volunteer as much these days, but I always enjoyed it," she said.

In Holman, the radio station even helps promote traditional language.

Community Language Program Officer Emily Kudlak said the Tuhangnarvik Radio Show has been playing on the airwaves since 2001.

It features two hosts which banter back and forth in Inuinnaqtun, and the program includes natural conversations, impromptu dialogue, and of course, laughter.

"It exposes people to the old language," she said.

While the AM band might be the common choice for community stations across Canada, Paulatuk's station broadcasts at 107.1FM.

As he took a break from community announcements, host Larry Ruben said the station is geared exclusively to the requests of its audience, which is the town of about 300.

"You probably wouldn't hear us a mile and a quarter out of town," he said.

But as Ruben explains, it is this local focus - the fact that birthday greetings can be passed on the air, or mayor Ray Ruben can candidly explain what's going on before a council meeting - that makes the station so unique.

"We also play requests every day," he added jovially, when asked why the station was popular.