I thought this might be of interest given the subject---since as one of you said---they are committing slow suicide. Something I have posted on a Folk DJlistserv. Though, sadly, I think they (NPR) are tending toward homogonization in the hopes of even more money---so much for the non profit organization. Hell, they even got rid of the "voice of their mornings"---even before he could celebrate a milestone anniversary ---his building the audience to what it now is (albeit no alone). Bob Edwards.

The posting is below:


> Just recently I was listening to a discussion on the local NPR (WNYC)
> station here in the metro NY area---The Brian Lehrer program--on the subject of how NPR is overwhelming the stations with their own programming becoming more commercial and mainstream along the way.   Most of the callers that responded to the discussion between Lehrer and a media consultant guest agreed---the only program that they singled out as being really worthwhile was On The Media (due to its independence and freedom of topics). While it is true that the All Things Considered, Morning Report, Weekend Ed. are surely excellent and popular with the public, they should only be considered
> part of a larger mix for the various local audiences. Sadly that is not the trend.
>
> WNYC is a perfect example---from a wonderful mix of talk, music, drama their slogan now is "Talk All Day---CLassical Music All Night."   The only saving grace with them is that so far they have not cancelled their 2 most erudite and interesting hosts of local discussion and arts programs.

They have, however, relegated their long time classical morning person (with a sardonic humor and great commentary to a Sat. 1 hr afternoon program---and Oscar Brand (the longest running folk program) to the A M outlet at some late Sat. evening hour---after much shuffling around.
>
> It only proves to me---and from what I hear by people turned off by
> commercial radio---that "community"/"university" radio is the only beacon in a sea of bland sameness and can highlight music and issues in a more diverse way.

Or---as Ronnie Gilbert said in an ID she gave me for our station (WFDU)---The Right Place On The Left Side of the Dial---that is where most of theseplaces are.


Bill Hahn
>