HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released two $100,000 grants-in-aid to KZOO and KNDI radio stations to be used to install emergency generators at the two stations so they can broadcast emergency messages to non-English speaking residents and visitors.

KZOO (1210 AM) is able to broadcast messages in Japanese, while KNDI (1270 AM) can provide emergency instructions in eleven languages to people in Hawaii who do not speak or understand English.

"Access to timely and accurate information is a key component of protecting public safety during an emergency," said Governor Lingle. "These grants will help to ensure that language is not a barrier in the event of a crisis, and enhance our overall disaster preparedness efforts," Lingle said in a news release.

"This is a great opportunity for the Japanese language community that relies on KZOO for vital news and information related to their daily lives," said Robyn Furuya, general manager, Radio Station KZOO. "KZOO has served the Japanese community in Hawaii for the past 45 years, therefore we feel a deep commitment to our listeners to be able to provide timely information in an emergency situation. The generator will enable KZOO to continue broadcasting to the Japanese residents and tourists in the State of Hawaii in the event of an emergency or natural disaster," Furuya said, according to the news release. .