In late March, Christian Family Radio Staff visited our new Yakima translator site to replace a temporary support on the receive antenna and to set up Internet access for the equipment installed there.  Although it took a bit longer than we planned (these kinds of things seem to happen that way!), we were able to replace the “stiff arm” that keeps the antenna from turning sideways in strong winds.  This stiff arm is made of fiberglass to prevent it from interfering with the operation of the antenna.

Of course, the receive antenna is a vital part of the system that takes a very small signal from KOLU, over 66 miles away, and sends it to the receiver so that we can have a clear signal to broadcast.

Receive Antenna with new “stiff arm”

The difficulty came in working over 40 feet off the ground and reaching where the stiff arm connects to the base of the antenna.  The antenna had to be “swung” sideways to be able to work on it, which meant the translator was off the air while this was being done.

Once it was connected to the base of the antenna, the rest of the work went quickly and we were back on the air.  Since then, there have been several windstorms in the area, but the antenna continues to point the right direction, giving a clear signal to our Yakima and Upper Valley listeners.

It took another visit and the installation of a different piece of equipment than originally planned, but we now are able to access both the receiver and transmitter parts of the translator remotely.  This enables us to check up on the translator without making the long drive to the site, and will help us to keep the translator on the air as much as possible.

Thank you for your prayers and faithful support that has enabled us to extend the ministry of Christian Family Radio into the Yakima area.