This is what I sent them:

Hello,
When I first heard the news that WETA was reinstating classical music, I was ecstatic! Then I found out that part of the package was the cancellation of the Mary Cliff show and her dismissal. Then my ecstacy turned to rage.

How raw can someone be! Her show is the last folk music show in the DC metro area, and she has been on the air for 30 some years. She is an essential part of the folk community, and she was close to retirement, anyway. I cannot think of a worse disservice to the community or to an employee than what you did.

Furthermore, I must protest the cancellation of Prairie Home Companion, Cartalk,and Sunday Morning Edition.

From your decision-making process, I can only conclude that the "public" in public radio is just a ruse, and that you expect us to accept whatever programming whim crosses your mind without so much as a whimper.

I am here to tell you that the audience you have dissed is a MAJOR contribution source, and that we will not take this lying down. And if you think the folk community should be dismissed so casually, just look at what shows PBS runs when THEY are asking for money. One of their big producers is the long show featuring all the folk music icons that we know and love. Ask them if they bring in the bacon, if
you think we don't matter!

I would like to reward you for reinstating classical music. But I cannot, since you also cancelled Traditions, and of course, the other three shows, too. No donations from me, and I will spread the word as far and wide as I can with my keyboard and computer. Phooey on you for making these decisions without input from your funders!

Please respond to this email with a non-form letter. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Saul Goldberg