WBFO 88.7 FM, the National Public Radio affiliate operated by UB, raised more than $160,000, its highest total ever, during its recently concluded Fall Membership Drive.

The $161,620 raised during the Oct. 19-26 fund drive included almost $37,000 pledged online, also a record amount, noted Joan Wilson, WBFO development director and co-leader of the Fall Membership Drive with Program Director David Benders.

Jennifer Roth, WBFO general manager, pointed out that two challenge grants helped the station reach its goal: $13,000 contributed by the WBFO Advisory Board toward a challenge grant to raise 130 memberships at $100 each, and $1,300 contributed by President William R. Greiner toward "The Lucky 13 Challenge" for 13 new members at $100 each.

"This was another 'best-ever' in WBFO's 41-year history-our most successful membership drive," said Roth. "We're thrilled by the outpouring of support and grateful to each and every listener who stepped forward with a contribution to keep WBFO strong and growing even stronger.

"It was a fabulous team effort-staff and volunteers and listeners-coming through for 'BFO."

Added Benders: "Western New York knows a good thing when they hear it, and we're thankful for the community's support. WBFO's combination of jazz, NPR and local news, and programming like 'This American Life' and 'Marketplace' strikes a chord and our community has responded."

Revenue obtained through fund raising comprises 56 percent of WBFO's operating budget, Roth noted, with membership contributions making up 38 percent and local business contributions 18 percent.