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Your Letters Archive: Letters prior to 1/1/07Home Humidity Suggestions 12/4/06 I would like to offer an alternative to Amy Ivy's advice for increasing humidity in our homes in the winter. Instead of rushing out to buy another plastic gadget that uses electricity (in this case, a humidifier), why not hang your laundry inside the house to dry? You'll not only eliminate the need for an energy consuming dryer, but you will also humidify your home. A pot of water on our woodstove and moisture from the laundry, (as well as Amy's other suggestion of putting houseplants on top of pebbles and water) works well for us all winter long. Katherine Brown, Keene, NY Ill-usaged 11/9/06 As Morning Edition asked for comments on English usage, please recommend to your "language police" that presenters stop using the term 'precipitously' for "suddenly," or "without further ado." This means extremely steeply, as in a drop from a cliff-top. The correct term is "precipitately." Both terms would of course play havoc with Carl Cassel's upper plate! Music through the Night Too Strident 11/3/06 I work late, sleep late. Turning in anytime after 1 a.m., I prefer to be lulled by the dulcet tones of Valerie Koehler(?) than shaken by the strident marching orders of Mr Jacobsen. Could the producer of this small-hours classical space pay more attention to a listener's somnolent mood? Ian Brookes, Kingston ON Finding NCPR Online 10/30/06 NCPR!!! I miss you so much! I am originaly from Potsdam, but I am now living in Central IL (I have been away for 2 years). I just started streaming NCPR from my computer last week and I feel whole again. You have great programing and reporting, THANK YOU! Esther Dubrovsky, Normal, IL Blue Helmets began with Canada 10/28/06 I am not shocked, but cannot shake being appalled at yet another example of American and British arrogance - or is it ignorance? - as heard on Weekend Edition Saturday 28 October, in Scott Simons' discussion with the 'jolly good fellow', Urquhart, on the subject of establishment of the UN peace-keeping operation on the Suez Canal in 1956. The discussants got so wrapped up in their nations' roles at Suez, that they made no mention of Lester Pearson, the originator of that operation, the first such performed by the UN. Pearson, then Canada's UN ambassador, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of this. Urquhart's claim to have organized the blue helmets for this operation pales beside Pearson's origination of UN peace-keeping operations. Ian Brookes, Kingston ON Fundraiser Kudos 10/22/06 Congratulations on a succcessful fund campaign! We were tuned in til the happy end. So impressed with how all you folks maintained your enthusiasm thruout the wk. You're a fabulous group. You make our ADK lives better and so well informed. Thank You for being out there! Carol Morrison, Old Forge Propaganda by omission, and repetition 10/12/06 In repeated discussions this week on NPR of the first American arrested for treason since WW2, and on and on... Could we please update the background of this story? NPR states, there have been many other terrorist charges brought against many other Americans. PLEASE rephrase or add, not one conviction has resulted under the new laws, not one. This veil of propaganda by omission, and repetition, could not better serve the Bush administrations agenda of instilling fear and surrender in our nation. This week PBS has done a story exposing the fear and government terror levied against many, including two Muslims in Lodi California, who were charged with terrorism and never found guilty of anything close to terrorism. NPR, just keeps repeating that many others were "charged with terrorism." The use of "charged" with the crime "terrorism," seems very similar to the effective old school use of: "Sadam" and "9-11", "Sadam" and "mushroom cloud." This type of overt propaganda is not acceptable, is poisoning the well of facts needed in our democracy and is an insult to your listeners. Stuart McLean a Treat 9/29/06 What a treat to hear the voice of Stuart McClean of the Vinyl Cafe on NCPR. We are long-time fans of this show on CBC, but often miss it as it airs Saturday mornings, when so much is going on. Wednesdays at 1 will be NCPR time now. For those who have not tried this show, do so. Good music, stories with humor and heart, and an easy relaxed style. Cliff Westerling , Potsdam, Moore's Hill Photo of the Day: Iwo Jima no circus 9/1/06 My heart sank coldly reading the caption to today's photo 9/01/06. Iwo Jima was no circus. I did not expect such insensitivity from my favorite station. Rosalyn Smith, NYC and Lake Titus Photo of the Day in poor taste 8/31/06 Is this station insensitive to the plight of animals in circuses? Have you read the recent statement by the Potsdam Humane Society regarding cruel treatment of circus animals? perhaps before you post a photo of the day (and compare it to the flag raising on Iwo Jima) you should visit the websites listed in the Humane Society's recent letter. Very poor taste! Frederick, Canton Great Sunday line-up 8/28/06 I listen to and am a member of all 3 of the public radio stations I receive in Plattsburgh. Your Sunday midday lineup is MUST listening for me. When I'm away I would like to pick up the podcast of This American Life and Selected Shorts. Maomi Bradshaw, Plattsburgh Ed. You can subscribe to the This American Life podcast and download editions of Selected Shorts at audible.com. Up Beat, off Point and Where's Dick? 8/15/06 Been listening to the station call-in, thanks for that! I grew up in the Brasher Falls area, been a listener for quite a few years. I now live in Fredericksburg VA and I listen to the station all day long at work on the web. It keeps me connected to home (and makes me miss it quite a bit!). I just wanted to say thank you so much for all the hard work and effort you put in to give us this great source of information. A few comments/questions...First, LOVE the Beat Authority!! It is a great kick off to the weekend, very fun. Second, what happened to Dick Gordon after The Connection was cancelled? Is he on a new show, and if so, any chance of trying it out. I do like the topics of On Point, but Tom Ashbrook has a more abrasive style than Dick, whom I enjoyed very much. Thank you so much again, Adrienne Pike, Fredericksburg, Va Ed. Dick Gordon has a new program, The Story, at WUNC, North Carolina Public Radio. A national distribution deal is under discussion and program director Jackie Sauter is keeping an eye on it for possible broadcast on NCPR. Keep the Local Programming 8/10/06 In response to the latest Listening Post (about the Ask the Station call-in, ed.) I would like to say that your locally-produced programs are the reason I listen to NCPR over the local NPR affilliate. I also like the laid-back attitude that the on-air staff has - they do a professional job but don't take themselves too seriously and seem to really enjoy their work. Keep the local programming - I can find all the news I don't want to hear everywhere else. John Doty, Westford, Vermont Missing the Newsletter 7/19/06 I was heartsick to read that we will no longer be receiving NCPR newsletters. For those of us who can't listen much--the Malone transmitter doesn't come in to my desk at work--the newsletter kept us in touch with what was going on at the station. I feel a connection to the station; it was a lifeline when I was travelling the gravel roads alone, doing home visits for years. It kept my mind busy as I folded unending piles of laundry and chased cows who decided to be "on the road again". I'd come home from work, and sit right down with the newsletter. I don't know where I would get the same information on the website. If it is legitimately to save paper, does that mean we won't be receiving paper and envelopes for fundraising? I love the website; but am a reader; and feel cut off from the station already. Jill Vaughan, Moira "Suspicion" Loosely Defined 7/18/06 II listened in disbelief to your All Before Five article about the Coast Guard requesting Americans to watch for suspicious people on the St. Lawrence River. The most astounding statements concerned the definition, or should I say lack of definition, of "suspicious" activity; which, if one followed the advice of the Coast Guard, was ludicrously loosely defined. Equally heart warming was the Coast Guard's contention that a more clear definition was not possible because information about suspicious activity previously collected was "classified." Shades of the "Hitler Youth"-- we are going to have the "Bush Old-timers" keeping us in line. Ken Hall, DeKalb Kudos for Regional News 7/13/06 Just wanted to make a quick note that I enjoy listening to NCPR and especially the 8 o'clock hour for regional news and the interactivity of the hosts. My hometown NPR stations is WRVO and they do a great job but there are some programs that you carry that they don't and I enjoy those. Keep up the great work. It also makes me feel that I am in the Adirondacks instead of 5 minutes outside of Syracuse. Patrick Dunn, Jamesville No Kudos for Local Weather 7/10/06 HI we spend a lot of time in the adirondacks during the summer and listen to NCPR daily. The programming is excellent, with the exception of the weather reports or lack of. One of the most important pieces to know while you are vacationing is accurante and complete weather forcasts so hikes, paddles, etc. can be planned. We find your weather reports cursory at best, and then normally only cover one day. We listen to WAMC at home and at 12:15 they have a complete forcast for a number of days. This would be an example of a format that I would hope you would consider. Thank you for your attention. Alan O'Mara, Catskill Majority of New Yorkers Support Tax-free Reservation Sales 6/27/06 In spite of a recent Zogby poll that indicated 68% of New York State residents do not support efforts to stop the Native sale of fuel and tobacco free of state taxes to non-natives, the state legislature and all of the would-be governors seem hell bent on destroying the economic base of all the native communities in New York. The ironic part is that revenue leakage to reservation sales is paltry by comparison to losses to New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Ohio. Another irony is that all states, including New York, work diligently to attract out-of-state purchasers to buy products in one state for use and consumption in their own state, yet fail to see the hypocrisy in targeting the destruction of reservation sales. John Kane, Plattsburgh Comment on Gay Marriage Ban Amendment Commentary 6/9/06 Ellen, I listened to your commentary regarding the current attempt by conservatives to legislate our marital preferences by invoking law. Nice job. I couldn't agree more. Perhaps we are all more alike than we realize. I read a book before the last presidential election by Anthony Read titled "The Devil's Disciples". It gave me a chill. Perhaps it will do the same for you. Best regards as always, Reynold Hubbard, St. Regis Falls Online Homesick Cure 5/15/06 Today I am officially homesick. I was looking for internet radio stations and today it struck me to see if NCPR had a live stream. One year ago I moved from Saranac Lake all the way to Dallas, Texas, and tuning into your station brought back a flood of fond memories and emotions that I hadn't felt in a while. I am glad to have this connection to home. Steve Williams, Denton, Texas Not Just North Countyisms 5/11/06 I heard today a caller from Antwerp identify two unusual usages in the area, 'youse' and 'chimbley'. The first is common on both sides of the St. Lawrence (e.g. in Prescott on the Canadian side) and probably dates from the settlement of the late 18th century. The latter is an archaism from England (you'll find it, for instance) in Dickens. What, I suspect, will become very clear as you proceed with your series on local usages, is that the St. Lawrence river is an artificial barrier created really by the building of the Seaway (still hated by locals on this side of the border) and the termination of most of the ferries and reinforced by current security paranoia. Roger Blockley, Kemptville, Ontario New Member Wants Ottawa Signal 3/22/06 I have just (today) joined NCPR, which I listen to while driving to and from work at Carleton University in Ottawa. What I hear is far superior to anything I can get from CBC. My only gripe is that as I approach the south end of Ottawa (the real city not the fields and marshes that constitute about 90% of what is now called Ottawa) I lose the signal. Maybe Radio Bob can do something about that. Roger Blockley, Kemptville, Ontario Kudos from Eastern Europe 3/17/06 I like your programs and especially your orientation that you support people with various impairments and that you read books to communities. Music is very good during the night and day, choice of music as well--choice of music is sometimes educational too, sound quality is very good. Keep up with your good work. I am glad that you are socially responsible. Vedran Vucic, Belgrade "Get a little Crazy" with Regional Music 3/8/06 I think that NCPR, as a local and regional station, should give much more attention to local and regional musicians, and be a little more adventurous, and less risk-averse in their airing of music. Of course, we are able to hear different music, and better music than what can be generally found on commercial radio, but far too often it seems as though the same sorts of filters infect Public Radio, and the most original and interesting material (some of which is being made in our own back yard) falls victim to the gatekeepers (yes, public radio has it's own gatekeepers both at the local and national levels). Most of the very best stuff never gets that stamp of approval. Let's decentralize, think community, and get a little crazy once in a while. Larry McGory, Potsdam Rumsfeld Blames the Messenger 3/8/06 Regarding the NPR story headed "Rumsfeld Sees Potential for Civil War" on March 7 and his consequential blaming the media for overly negative reporting on civilian casualties, it strikes me that Rumsfeld is attempting to kill the messenger with his comments attacking the credibility of the press in general. In the on-air fundraising segment during the 6 pm news, Ellen made reference to talking as an NPR board member with the CEO of NPR regarding a meeting wtih NPR reporters in the Middle East and their reiterating that the situation in Iraq, according to Ellen, is far worse than is being reported. I took Ellen's comments to mean that if anything, the press is being conservative in attempting to inform listeners as to the potential threat of civil war. That being said, I would hope Ellen as an NPR board member would forcibly request some type of rebuttal from NPR regarding their journalistic credibility and accuracy in the reporting from Iraq. Further, I believe it would be helpful for NPR to reiterate the basis for Mr. Rumsfeld's credibility and ethical standard, given his lack of concern about treatment of prisoners, ignoring the Geneva Conventions and protocols, and inability to provide troops with adequate protective armor. David Duff, Macomb Oscar Coverage Kudos (not!) 3/6/06 I enjoyed your review of the Oscars this morning and your enthusiasm for 36 Mafia and their glorification of prostitution by their song, "It's Hard For a Pimp". It takes Public Radio to support profane, struggling thugs like 36 Mafia. Keep up the good work! Randall Cornelison, Philadelphia NCPR: One of a Kind 3/6/06 When we moved from this area 16 years ago, one of the things I missed most was NCPR. I missed the sense of community that it offered, along with the one-of-a-kind music in the afternoon! I listened and supported Public Radio where we lived in Ohio, but never felt the same way about the station. Upon our return to the North Country six years ago, the first thing I did was tune into NCPR - it truly was a welcome home! Lori MacIntosh, Waddington Notional Grid? 2/23/06 After hearing Brian Mann's interview with the spokesman from National Grid on NG's tepid response to the windstorm, I had just one question: "When did National Grid learn the levee's had been breached?" Bob Dickie, Cadyville The Return of Bob? 2/20/06 I see that Bob Edwards has a 2-hour long show called Bob Edwards Weekend that is being produced by PRI and XM Radio, and marketed to Public Radio stations. Any chance that it will be picked up by NCPR? I'd love to hear it. Bethany Usher, Canton Too Much Religion 2/10/06 I very much enjoy listening to your station, but I don't like your recent emphasis on religious topics and programs. Joan Lalonde, Potsdam NPR Already Chooses Between the Good and Bad in Business 1/27/06 I was interested in the fact that several people asked the same question I had about NPR accepting sponsorship from Wal-Mart. I had asked you about it some time ago, and shouldn't have been surprised that Mr. Stern [NPR Chief Operating Officer in a recent NCPR Call-in, ed.] gave the same response that you had; that NPR is not going to decide between the "good guys" and "bad guys" of business. But you do, right? I believe that you told me that NPR does not accept sponsorship from liquor or tobacco companies, how about casinos, brothels? And there must be others that NPR would not associate with. I believe that, for example, the casinos and brothels may have a less negative effect on our society (or at least on my life) than Wal-Mart does. In spite of this I still think that NCPR is the best radio I have ever heard. Keep up the good work. Armond Spencer, Potsdam NPR Soft-Pedals Serious News 1/26/06 Unfortunately I missed most of this morning's call-in show with the NPR representative--I heard only the last 10 minutes. I have no idea of the tone of earlies calls. I had hoped to call up and complain about NPR's apparent abandonment of serious news. Over the last week I've listened with increasing frustration to soft-hearted reports on heaven, mothers and daughters, football, and collard greens (cooked, OMG, in olive oil!!!), with astonishingly slight coverage of iraq (a *war*), Bush's illegal spying (*spying*), Darfur, etc. In fact, of the few serious reports on the NSA disaster, most have featured Republican apologists. Even the coverage of New Orleans, which is extensive, seems to emphasize the 'human interest' story rather than anything remotely 'political.' The ads for Weekend Edition seem to flaunt all of this--the show is relaxing, silly, comforting, a respite from the week's rush. Many of us would agree that this country is collapsing into a horror-show of lies and authoritarianism. It's depressing and pathetic that NPR doesn't seem interested in covering any of it. Nat, Underhill VT Try Diane Rehm 1/26/06 I want to second the motion made a few minutes ago on the call-in show with the COO of NPR...I REALLY want to have Diane Rehm on your program schedule. Kathy Clarke, Lake George Jamming? 1/26/06 I found it very curious that the only time I had reception problems was when you mentioned that you were trying to arrange with a station in North Carolina for a program other than On Point. It was if it was "jammed." The reception has been totally clear ever since? Any thoughts on that? Mary Henry, Raquette Lake Our spiffy new digital transmitter responds to power fluctuations by switching over to generator power. When that happens, there is a short (30 seconds or less) burst of static. That happened twice during the Thursday am call-in. Our apologies--we are working to shorten or eliminate that delay. To our knowledge, Tom Ashbrook of On Point and WBUR Boston have no direct control over the local power grid or the NPR satellite. Ed. Yay Cafe! 1/25/06 An old adage, maybe something my Grandmother once said, says to not say something negative without something positive to say also. With this in mind, I would like to say the The Vinyl Cafe is a great addition to NCPR's program lineup. Paul, Canton Play More Music 1/24/06 Please explain what I as a listener have gained with the inclusion of All Before Five in your daily programming. Same old news, different time; not to mention 15 minutes lost on the already too short music programs - Stop talking Bob, Jackie, and play more music!!! Paul, Canton Canadian Election Analysis Lacking 1/18/06 Your piece about the current Canadian election campaign featuring Prof. Thacker was the most ridiculous explanation of why the Liberals are going down in flames. Why was there absolutely no mention of all the corruption scandals? It is amazing that someone claiming to be an expert on Canadian politics failed to mention AdScam even in passing. Is is that hard for you to equate Liberal with Corrupt? Another reason why our tax dollars should not support such biased reporting. Douglas Yu, Plattsburgh Impeachment Silence is "Defining" 1/14/06 The "silence is defining" as they say! I looked over the NPR news searches and nothing on the growing movement to impeach Bush. No matter how small the chance (given the media blackout), the movement is large and growing, and has behind it patriots who fear the growing loss of civil rights and Liberty. Do we have to wait until 2008 to hear more than one sentence spoken on NPR on the subject? I am so very disappointed to the point of correctly declaring the NPR system: negligent, blatantly censored, and complicit in furthering the illusion that your listeners are informed. The last one is what really pisses me off and contributes to ill will amongst the fast growing number of ex-listeners, ex-contributors and the outspoken anti-NPR community. Evolve or perish. The future neocon cut backs to NPR are sure to come as government, corporate and private debts, debts largely financed by communist third world nations (China), reach astronomical and unsustainable levels. We cannot afford to wait for the "news." Richard Paolillo, West Stockholm Canadian Kudos, with Orthodontic Caveat 1/11/06 As a Canadian listener in Kingston, Ontario, I want to say how glad I am that during the CBC staff lock-out of late last year, I listened to NPR from Canton NY, and was impressed to find how relevant, judicious, and balanced your programming is, and am now a regular listener most of the day. But I also have to say, as a crotchety old retired academic, how annoying I find that news-reader's voice from Washington, Carl Kassel. Maybe you have a mandate to represent on staff all sectors of the listening population, including those with loose-fitting upper dentures. But the good of the greatest number is better served if people so afflicted are tasked with other jobs than reading the national news! Thanks! Ian Brookes, Kingston, ON New Years Eve with Ellen & Guy "A Blast"! 1/2/06 Just got to tell you that was a blast. We had three generations of the family from five to seventy-five here and we all listened from 8 to nearly 1 am. A great mix and a great community feeling. Alan McLeod , Kingston, ON Schorr Misses Impeachment Moves 12/25/05 Daniel Schorr needs to update his commentary: There IS a call for Censure and Impeachment for Bush and Cheney. On December 24, 2005 newscast, Daniel Schorr was reviewing the weeks news and reported that despite domestic spying on American citizens, torture approved, civil right questioned finally being raised, "There was no impeachment moves against Mr. Bush." Mr. Shore who holds high status at NPR as senior news commentator, needs to update this assertion. Several years ago former Attorney Ramsey Clark formally drafted articles of impeachment. His call for impeachment is widely available on the net. Congressman Conyers of Michigan, was investigating impeachment through his constituents a year or so ago, and on December 20, 2005 launched three articles of censure and impeachment for both Mr. Bush and Cheney. Press release below is from Conyers official website: http://www.house.gov/conyers/Censure_PR.htm CONYERS RELEASES REPORT ON MISCONDUCT OF BUSH ADMINISTRATION CONCERNING IRAQ WAR My Conyers has also said, NPR, please update Mr. Schorr and report on this important development both in commentaries and as news stories. Richard Paolillo, West StockholmA Franklin Manor Christmas 12/14/05 I fell in love with the Sunday holiday reading of A Franklin Manor Christmas. Is this book able to be purchased yet? I would really enjoy a copy of my own to share with my nieces and nephews. As a lover of the Adirondacks and the magic that takes place there, this story is beyond beautiful! Thank you for adding some Christmas magic to my home through the radio. Tammy Ronas-Slate, Philadelphia A Franklin Manor Christmas is not available in print yet, but you can listen to, or download a copy of Paul Willcott's reading of the story in the UpNorth Concert Hall, Ed. Holocaust Denial: NPR Spotlight Too Dim 12/14/05 I thought that, as much as possible under the circumstances, i.e., interviewing Mr. Naji, an Iranian journalist, about the latest holocaust denial statements of Iranian President Ahmadinejad, Mr. Inskeep did a balanced job. The interview turned predictably clinical and political, as was to be expected with the given cast of characters. Yet at it's root, this is not a clinical or political issue. The very sad fact of the reality of the holocaust, with it's six million Jewish victims is beyond debate. (The Nazi's were very good at record-keeping; I am well aware that not ALL the victims were Jews, just most of them; being a Jew was, however, sufficient provocation alone for murder; and, about 25% of the victims were children..) As the war ended a little over 60 years ago, the eye-witnesses will soon all be gone. Regardless, there are still literally millions of pieces of physical evidence to corroborate this horrific stain on human history, as well as the living children and grandchildren of both victims and eye-witnesses. There is a whole generation for whom this period of history is being relegated to just another chapter in a history book. It cannot be assumed that blatantly political, antisemetic, inflammatory rhetoric is universally recognized for the nonsense that it is. Therefore, when a head of state with a world-forum propagates a big lie over and over (i.e., holocaust denial), it then becomes the responsibility of others (such as NPR) with an equally potent forum to shine the spotlight of truth clearly and brightly. What is most disappointing is how dim NPR's spotlight is. President Ahmadinejad isn't even throwing a shadow. Up your wattage. Don, Saranac Lake Up Beat! 12/7/05 just a quick note to let you know that I think The Beat Authority is the freshest thing to come along on radio up here (I live across the Lake in Charlotte) in a long, long time. I like Radio Bob's program, too, but the BA exposes me to more great music that I would probably otherwise never hear. I love the Spanish lingo, too. I'm nowhere near as fluent as the host, but it helps keep me sharp on what I do know and remember. Rick Brokaw, Charlotte VT Best on the Block 11/22/05 I have just moved back to the Glens Falls area, after spending 5 years in Indianapolis, IN, where there was a great public radio station. I have been struggling with the Albany and Vermont stations because they do not broadcast any of my favorite shows during the day. I have just discovered that you do have some great daytime programming. Thank you. Your station is the one I will support financially. Kathy Clarke, Lake George Don't Move The Folk Show 11/18/05 I miss listening to The Folk Show (on the Internet) on Friday afternoon! It was great company as I would try to wrap things up at work, and transition to the weekend. Thanks, Mike, I've really enjoyed your show. Gayle Barton, Bennington, VT String Fever "Doth Tame the Savage Breast" 11/17/05 I've got a whole new appreciation for that song you just played, "Single Girl," as I walk my colicky three-month-old around the house. He quieted down to listen to that one with me though! Thanks for a great show. It reminds me of the show I had for a few years out in California. I miss it, but it's nice to be able to hear someone else doing it here. All the best, Erica Andrus, St. Albans, VT Loves story on Music for a Monday 11/16/05 Monday afternoon I had to make a quick trip 'home'...out of the ADK and downstate to the Soutern Tier area. I was able to listen to Music for a Monday to nearly Alder Creek or Barnville and enjoyed listening to the story told by the CBC storyteller--It made me laugh, just when I needed a little levity! David Knapp, Paul Smiths On Point Shows Bias 10/26/05 Once again I need to comment on the On Point broadcast. I find this show to be very offensive at times. Today's show (Wednesday, Oct 26th at 10 am) was about the personal losses in the Iraq War. Those interviewed were from families who had lost loved ones. Many of them (it seemed to be the majority) told about how those who died from their family believed in the mission in Iraq and were proud to serve our country in this way. Then, at the end of the program, an editorial was aired that blamed the entire war effort on the current administration and ignored the feelings and ideas expressed by the majority of the callers. If I had been one of those callers, I would have been grossly offended. The editorial completely missed the point of what these people, who have made a supreme sacrifice, expressed. It offended me. This is not the first time On Point has used their air time to promote a political agenda. What is this show about anyway? If it is just an anti-administration, pro-liberal point of view show, then it should clearly state that at the start of every show. Appreciates Hunting Story Online 10/24/05 My name is Paul Nadeau and I have just listened to the commentary presented on this website pertaining to hunting and it's traditions in the North Country. I really enjoyed the broadcast. I too grew up in Tupper Lake and knew John Quinn and members of his immediate family. In fact his father was a high school science teacher of mine and I was sad to hear of his passing. I also lost my father but at a much younger age. Time will heal the pain. As a teenager I can recall John bagging a buck across the lake from the village where we resided. In fact I can safely say that hearing of his success that day helped trigger in me a deep rooted desire to hunt whitetail deer. To this day I still have that hunger and have had some hunting success living in Vermont. I also have tried to instill the hunting tradition in my family but have not had the same success that John has had. I am still holding out hope. My son's are 22 and 20 years of age. In the broadcast I believe someone had stated that if you harvest a deer "it's a bonus". I couldn't agree with that statement more. It was very well stated, you see "I get it" as I'm sure most hunters do. It is really not about the deer kill but more about the thrill of the chase and the hunanity that is abtained throughout the process and via ALL your fellow hunters. I too have concerns regarding the dwindling numbers of young hunters and am also concerned for the future of hunting and those traditional values lost therein. Growing up in Tupper Lake in the 60's life was very hard at times, but in general we lived in a much simpler time. As a society we took this for granted. Having lived in Vermont over the past 25 plus years and having been raised in the Adirondacks I feel that I have a good sense of the problem at hand. I do believe that our youth today have different pressures on them that we did not have when we were young and that their free time is at a premium considering all of the modern conviences and distractions. I look at this problem a little bit differently based on my life experiences than probably most hunters, but am always interested in hearing everyones views on this matter. Interstingly enough I only hear the same old same old opinions that seem to reasonate as if it were a broken record.
Just for a second, lets just look at this problem intraspectively and look at it for what it is and stop blaming everything and everyone else and clean up our own house first before we start solving problems with hunting that have nothing to do with solidifying the traditions that come from within the sport. Hunters as well meaning as they may sound, are basically selfish by nature when it comes to bagging that buck. I am no different. The proof is in the pudding one might say. I say this because everytime I discuss these hunting problems with my hunting counterparts, hardly anyone ever mentions LAND POSTING and those self centered, selfish character traits that in my opinion are at the root cause for the demise of our great ourdoors adventure. Any HUNTER who owns or leases private property that restricts the use of said property for the same purposes because they are not in the same "circle of trust" is only being hypocritical in their intent and are only thowing up smoke screens. This clearly demonstates to me that hunting is only for me and not for you. Let's face it, land today is at a premium. Even in the Adirondacks real estate and real property have pricing pressures on them that were not there many years ago. I am writing this long comment in hopes of envoking emotions that will open up dialogue and bring to the forefront those issues that should be addressed first by the hunting community before we can expect to change the mind set of the non - hunting forum. Recently the State of New York has purchased outright land and conservation easements from timber companies within the Adirondack Park. I believe that if the state uses this oppurtunity constructively for purposes of mananged forest harvasting and keeps hunting access open indefinitely to the public, this will help preserve those hunting traditions we hold so dear. We must find a way to ensure that hunting access is available to everyone and not just the affluent or well connected. Paul Nadeau, Moretown VT p.s. Private property rights in this country in my opinion are not up for discussion. The framers of our constitution made this clear. We must however think outside the box and create a community for hunting that is accessable to all. Take care of hunting and the tradition will take care of itself. Jazz and Giggles 10/23/05 This is the only radio station I listen to when I go to camp. I love to listen to the jazz on Saturday nights. Sometimes you have some weird talk shows, but I giggle sometimes. Overall I think you have a great broadcast! Joe Thayer, Blue Mountain Lake Lost that lovin' feeling 10/18/05 You lost all your sex appeal when you dropped Dick Gordon and The Connection. judging by the number of letters in defense of his show, it would seem that many of your listener sponsors have little input into what is broadcast on "their" public radio. the replacement show is so bland and innocuous, good for the dying patient. r.i.p. A. Stinson, Alexandria On Point on target 10/18/05 I'm not sure what type of feedback you've received re: the switch from The Connection to On Point. Personally, I am thrilled! I used to be a big fan of The Connection when Christopher Lydon was host - but was increasingly disappointed and bored with the show under Dick Gordon. Now, with On Point on the air, I feel as if we've made a semi-return back to the Lydon days - which is great! Michael Connett, Burlington VT Off Beat 10/15/05 Please bring back Mike Alzo's Folk Show [to 3-5 pm Friday]. The Beat Authority is better suited to Friday night. Sorry, but muy bien is mal noticias. Phillip, Aiston APA: Time to Go 10/15/05 Re: The APA decision to limit public comment--I think it is about time for the APA to be disbanded. Turn stewardship of the park over to the Forest Service and the DEC where it belongs. The APA has always had and still does have way too much power. It looks as if they intend to broaden that power by muzzling the people they work for, the taxpayers. Therein lies the problem, the APA has never recognized their true bosses. They believe they answer to no one. Time to shut it down. Ron Hubbard, St. Regis Falls Change is Difficult 10/14/05 I miss The Connection but am learning to really enjoy On Point. I too long for some classical music programming during the day. Some 25 years ago when I first moved here, that kind of programing is what drew me to the station. Whatever you do, please don't take Speaking of Faith off the air. I deal with Thursday if I must, but I can't tell you how many times Krista Tippet's gentle and thoughtful interviews have lifted me out of the doldrums. Patrici Lennox, Potsdam Scheduling Pains 10/9/05 You could not help losing The Connection, and I am probably the only person in your listening area that wants classical music programming during the daytime schedule (thank God for my CDs, but to put Tavis Smiley in Krista Tippet's spot is too much! Color me disappointed and in pain! Bill Hart, Canton Up Beat and Connett, Too! 10/9/05 David Sommerstein debuts The Beat Connection and Paul Connett returns. My public radio station is heaven. Kathleen, DeKalb Up Beat! 10/8/05 I'm writing to express my deep appreciation for and joy in listening to yesterday's The Beat Authority. What a fantastic addition to the NCPR line-up, and what a great way to spend a Friday afternoon! My wife and I are both NCPR contributors and we are thrilled that we are helping to support such a program. Kevin Sanderson-Doughty, Lowville Up Beat! 10/5/05 Thanks for the new show The Beat Authority. As much as I like Mike Alzo's Folk Show, something a little more upbeat is going to bring 5 pm on a lot more quickly! Thanks too for all the new programming. Whether we agree with it or not, it's good to know NCPR is listening and responsive. Mike Erickson, Brant Lake NY Don't Move Folk Show 10/4/05 Don't move the Folk Show to Friday night. It is one of the best afternoon music shows you air. Besides already having a show for music from around the world, The Beat Authority seems better suited to Friday evening dance parties. Certainly it is more on the mark for Friday night than the Folk Show. Why not put The Beat Authority Friday night? Matt Scafidi-McGuire, Canton NY Don't Move Folk Show 10/3/05 I strongly disfavor the pending move of The Folk Show from Friday afternoon to Friday night. Friday nights frequently involve socializing and other events such that I am unlikely to listen to Mike's show. This is truly unfortunate as it is my favorite musical programming and I listen every week. Worse yet, I don't share David's enthusiasm and presentation of the music that will replace Mike's show on Friday afternoons. Greg LeRoy, Hinesburg, VT Missed Connection 9/9/05 I am saddened by the loss of The Connection. It was by far my favorite radio program. Dick Gordon is wonderful and it is tragic that he will no longer be heard on NCPR. I live in Burlington, VT, but support NCPR more generously than VPR because of Mr. Gordon's show. Unfortunately, this may change the love I've had for NCPR. Martine L. Gulick, Burlington, VT Move American Routes 8/20/05 A suggestion: move American Routes (a terrific program) to Sunday 6-8 pm and either get rid of or move the folk music show (sorry can't remember the title [Mountain Stage, ed.]) to Saturday afternoon. The folk music show features one well known singer but, unfortunately, the rest of the program then contains mediocre preformers or first time singers. It's not a quality program. At present American Routes is hidden on a date and time that's hard to listen to. Sunday evening would be much, much better. John Barthelme, Canton Bring on Diane Rehm 8/14/05 I would like to suggest that rather than pick up the WBUR replacement program On Point, that NCPR broadcast Diane Rehm from WAMU. It plays from 10AM-12 also, and covers national current events with top experts in the appropriate fields. R. Curley, Ballston Lake Bring Back Dick Gordon 8/9/05 I,too, am profoundly upset that The Connection has been cancelled. Dick Gordon's interview style and ability to capture the "humannous" of news captivated me. I looked forward to the radio time spent with Mr. Gordon. I would often put on 2 radios so that when I walked to another room I could still hear the broadcast. His shows were so well researched and complex in nature. His knowledge of the subject / people background was so very impressive to me and added to the intelligence and insight shown in the programming. I truly hope that Connection listeners will create a protest that will result in getting his show bought by another radio station. Hopefully, the quality of this show will not be lost. Katherine Williams, Durham NC Dick Gordon "Bobbed" 8/9/05 The Connection was one of the most independent and thoughful programs on radio. I didn't like the intro music byte, but that's all I didn't like about this show. Something is wrong with public radio, not the least of which is that we have a meddling Congress that cannot but intimidate when it negotiates funding for public television and radio. WBUR should be ashamed. Maybe they can hire Bob Edwards to make amends. (Incidentally, a friend and I have started using the term "bobbed" to mean someone who got fired for no good reason.) Looks like Dick Gordon got bobbed. Emmett Hoops, Saranac Lake WBUR "Charming" 8/9/05 My guess is that The Connection was cancelled because NPR is moving more towards being a liberal, reactionary mouthpiece. Tom Ashbrook, the liberal wienie that he is, seems more suited for the position than the non-partisan and unbiased Mr. Gordon. While the job of the interviewer is to provide a forum for exchange of ideas and smooth the transition between a podium and a public space, Ashbrook and his yes-man from Atlantic monthly regularly bully their guests and impose their own demented world-view. Gordon knows why he was fired: he didn't want to tow the party line. He didn't want to be pro-or-against the war, pro-or-against Bush e.t.c. He is the ultimatte mulatto: too white for the liberals, too black for conservatives. The listeners get what they deserve preachers in the church and snake-charmers on the radio. Boooboo Gabor, Brookline, MA Lost The Connection 8/8/05 What a shock to turn the dial to The Connection and to find the program has been pulled. There are few programs I listen to on a regular basis but Dick Gordon's intelligent, stimulating and wonderfully varied presentations were ones I hated to miss. There are so few programs (are there any?) of The Connection's calibre that it boggles the mind that it, of all talk programs, should be cancelled. Neither does it bode well for NPR in its requests for funding. A very disappointed and, I might add, angry would be listener. Lost The Connection 8/6/05 I am profoundly upset that Dick Gordon's show The Connection is being cancelled, and I can't imagine that the fiscal reasons that have been given by Mr. Fiedler and the rating reasons that have been stated by Ms. Sterling are even remotely true. Could Dick Gordon and his colleagues cost WBUR (his home station) so much that they can afford to lose one of NPR's best syndicated talk show hosts? I've always been an avid supporter of public radio, and contribute what little money I am able to support it. I am starting to consider abandoning my listening to WBUR and listening to WGBH instead, based on the fact that they have let this fabulous man and talk show host go. I just read an article in the BostonPhoenix newspaper (Aug. 5th, 2005) by Mark Jurkowitz shedding light on Dick Gordon's plight, and I think WBUR (and by dint of association) all NPR carrying stations who have also broadcast Dick Gordon's show for years will only be harmed in the longrun. He is one of the me dia's bright lights. He is intelligent, kind, sensitive, diplomatic, fair, witty, and quite frankly, as good--if not better than any talk show host on public radio that I can think of. Dick Gordon's show being cancelled is a real tragedy, especially for his most loyal listeners. I have grown to think of him as a "family friend" of sorts (on an auditory level, of course), and look forward to each and every show he produces. Alas. I hope he reads this comment, because he is beloved by many listeners, especially myself! L. Merl, Brookline, MA Lost The Connection 8/5/05 Why is Dick Gordon's show being canceled REALLY. Cost cutting measures is simply not a good enough explanation. He is the best interviewer on the air. VERY dismayed. Erica Heilman, South Hero VT The Connection's cancellation is dismaying news. Is there a chance that it will be picked up elsewhere and we'll hear it again? The August 5 issue of the Boston Phoenix, quotes fired Connection host Dick Gordon" "I have about 4000 theories for the cancellation of the show," Gordon says. But he acknowledges that he can’t be sure which, if any, are accurate. The author goes on to speculate: "Budgetary concerns could certainly be involved. There’s also WBUR’s expressed desire to focus more on local journalism. With The Connection, Here and Now, and On Point, it can be argued that the station has too many topical interview and information shows. One theory is that The Connection was elbowed out of the way by On Point, hosted by Tom Ashbrook, and that the station was eager to move On Point out of its 7 pm slot, perhaps because Chris Lydon [the original Connection host] has recently returned to the airwaves with a show on rival WGBH-FM in that same time period." Complete article. NCPR Online Lost The Connection 8/4/05 Why is The Connection being cancelled? It is one of the reasons I listen to NCPR. Has Public Radio bowed to political pressure? Start a campaign to save it! Virginia Glover, Brockville ON I was extremely disappointed to learn that The Connection with Dick Gordon was being discontinued this Friday. It has been one of my favorite programs on NCPR--is there anything you can do to continue the program? Jim Marlatt, Keene Valley WBUR Boston, the station that produced The Connection, had developed a whopping budget deficit under its previous manager. The cancellation of The Connection is said to be in response to WBUR's fiscal crisis and appears to be unrelated to any national political considerations. NCPR Online For the Department of Faux Pas 6/29/05 Dear Ellen: I was listening to you speak yesterday afternoon (today is Jun 29) and I was aghast to hear you tell your listeners that Friday, July 1 is Canada's "Independence Day." Canada never left the fold of the British Empire, and in fact, we accepted all the outcasted loyalists from the US when the rebels (we think of the rebels as the wayward sister... hahaha) were chased out of the country. In fact, we have an active Governor General who is the figurehead of our country, representing the throne of England. July 1 is our celebration of the anniversary of the coming together of a number of provinces to join into a national confederation. I just thought you should be made aware of your faux pas as I am sure that I an not by any means the only Canadian listener to NCPR. By the way, my wife is from Canton, from one of the older families in the area. Not Alone 6/13/05 I check north country [public radio] now every day and today I listened to Brittany LaBrake describe life after foster care. Brittany, I don't know if you'll ever see this, but you're not alone. I moved into my own apartment at 16 while going to school and I know right now you feel like it's never going to end and things are never going to get better and you just feel trapped, but it isn't always going to be so. When you're young and you move out on your own it's diffcult as hell, especially since there's no real help for kids in St. Lawernce County, and you feel like you have no one who understands your frustrations. I tell you I went the party route and made a lot of mistakes with my own apartment at 16, but things can get better if you make them. I also learned family is what you make it and blood is not always thicker than water. I'm married now with 2 great kids, a decent job and decent place to live--it can be done. Brittany just keep trying and you'll get where you want to be, just remember the best person for you to count on, for you to get it done, is you. And you're not alone. Rebecca Rushlow, Potsdam Poor Kids 6/08/05 BRAD PITT IS WORRIED ABOUT THE POOR KIDS IN AFRICA AND WHAT ABOUT THE AMERICAN KIDS WHO ARE HOMELESS? WHAT CAN WE DO AS A COUNTRY FOR OUR PEOPLE AND THE POVERTY HERE? Anne, Imlay City, Michigan Jerks 4/01/05 My comment on trout fishing or any fishing for that matter - One jerk at the end on the line waiting for another jerk. ENJOY! Denise, North River Who's Biased? 3/30/05 NPR does a fair job in reporting both sides of the big issues affecting us in these troubling times. People on the far right seem to think NPR is "liberally biased," but it is my feeling that they feel this way because they listen to so much "poopoo" on stations like Fox News that is TRULY biased toward the right and they hear a truly unbiased news source and feel it's "liberally biased." I do feel that more needs to be done to expose the right wing's absolutely incomprehensible disdain for the truth. I heard on The Connection the other day a vile member of congress compare the Terri Shiavo feeding tube tragedy to the Holocaust. How is it that this person is allowed to say something so incredibly offensive and not get called on it. Poor souls who are in the situation that Terri Shiavo is in have their feeding tubes removed DAILY. Overwhelmingly the public agrees that government officials should not be involved in this wrenching decisions. Why give these wackos a forum for such nonsense????? Deborah Cleary, Peru Evidence Outweighs Balance 3/30/05 Regarding balance: as important as it is, I think that more essential, is the evidence that is asserted to support the "balanced" report. So, more in-depth fact-based examination of issues is necessary in order for the listener to critically form his/her opinions. For an educated and thinking public, that's the mission of public media. Thank you NPR and NCPR for "no-spin" reporting. Lenore Zaunere, Hermon Thanks, I Think 3/30/05 You guys and gals, well, I know it's the gals who run and rule the place...but anyhow, you make the North Country the sweet sweet Paradise it is. The only thing that is missing is Lamar on the radio in the morning. Thank you again and if I had a pot to piss in, I'd leave it to you in my will. Keep it up, I listen from afar just to hear your voices and your programming. P.S. Ellen Rocco is still the sexiest woman in radio. The brains! The looks! The checkered past!! Ah, mercy. Ok carry on. Elizabeth von der Ah, Seattle Dick Gordon an "Education" 3/4/05 I am a relative newcomer to the public raido crowd. I must say
that I enjoy listening everyday. I got to give prop's to Dick
Gordon with The Connection. He really has the ability to
relate and convey to the audience that he is genuinly interested
in what the guest and listeners are talking about. My favorite
part is when he cuts off the caller or guest and says that he
has to go to a commerical break. I honestly believe that I have
been educated on so many diffrent levels. Annoyingly Underserved 2/7/05 I've always been a vocal if not financial supporter of Public Radio, and wherever I’ve lived, I've been one of those folks who have always turned people on to their local public radio station - but I've had it. The media landscape is widening, and more and more I leave NCPR's increasing conservative and irrelevant shows (like The Connection and Talk of the Nation) for Democracy Now!, Air America, and other stations that are playing more serious shows that are less driven by the corporate and conservative echo chamber. I think it's time NCPR revised it's schedule to reflect a more Independent Radio stance - or you may find yourselves more and more irrelevant. On the positive side - your 8 O'Clock Hour is a good start. In hope and with regards, John Warren, Chestertown (annoyingly unserved by NCPR, WAMC, and VPR, though we’ll never have our own radio because they already have a lock on our market – such as it is)
Keeping in Touch Online 1/8/05 NCPR allows local information, important to me, to travel many miles and always up-to-date. I love this and hope to return home someday with more knowledge, due to the participation of so many people. I love NNY and my heart will always be with everyone there. Peace, love and prosperity to all. Paul Cutler, Falmouth, VA In praise of Radio Bob 12/29/04 I drive from Tupper Lake to Saratoga Springs most Wednesdays between 3:30 and 5 pm. I love the music that Bob plays and wonder where he gets it all from. If you could see me changing between your repeaters and stations as I make the journey, as your station fades from one area to another, it is quite amusing. I manage to "hold the station" all the way to exit 20 on the Northway south, and then it fades completely. You need a stronger, higher-wattage station. Love Bob's program. Tony Hobson, Wilton
Can't Fly on One Wing 12/21/04 Thank you so much for your great station. As the corporate media streches to control its right wing agenda, it's good to know there's an alternative in upstate NY. Larry Dwyer, Denville NJ Wants Democracy Now! 12/20/04 It seems to me that NCPR and Democracy Now!, the alternative media source for those seeking the truth would be a natural partnership. What are the chances of this station ever broadcasting such a program? I for one, would be really interested. Thanks for the great programming! George Donahue, Saranac Lake Hijacking Morality 11/12/04 Most of the American media is helping the right wing hijack the word “Morality.” I commend Brain Mann for his article this morning in which he considers another side of the concept of morality. I was first made aware of the wash of “morality” at a Lions Club dinner, when another Lion asked me what I thought of President Bush winning with voters who cared about morality. I was surprised at that use of the word, but then became aware that it was all over--in the papers, on TV, even on NPR. It seems for those who claim this interpretation of the election that morality ends six inches from the crotch. Gay marriage and abortion are the main issues claimed by these “morality” voters. “Protection of the family” is just code words, as it has been since the “Defense of Marriage Act,” for anti-gay, anti abortion feelings. Brian Mann rightly connected morality with wider issues, specifically the war in Iraq. But it has more facets. Those who oppose abortion have not spoken of wider issues besides their wish to outlaw it. One of those issues is the probability that women would again go to back-alley abortionists if they couldn’t afford to go to a country which allows abortion. That’s what was happening before Rowe v. Wade. The rich could fly to an overseas site, have their abortions safely, and return home after a “vacation.” One of the things the Supreme Court addressed at the time of Roe v. Wade was this discrepancy of protection for women of different classes. Another issue involves the children which would be born, if, indeed, all abortion were to be stopped. I don’t hear these “morality” claimers offering to raise the children that would be born to women who couldn’t take care of them. And I hear many of these same people working against, as the current administration has, birth control in other parts of the world. How moral is it to force a woman to carry to term and support for a lifetime a child which she is not equipped to raise? Is it moral to require a gay or lesbian person to go without visits from their closest partner when they are hospitalized? Is it moral to cut these partners out of any consideration of the treatment of their beloved? Until those who claim “morality” can raise their eyes from the center of their fixation, and look the rest of us in the eye, and give some answers to these, and many other, concerns, I will not concede them that title. Ted Tate, Star Lake NY Rushing on Fresh Air 10/29/04
Very grateful for Terri Gross' interview with Josh Rushing. What
a loss for the world that Mr. Rushing is no longer employed in
his capacity as a journalist with the military. Loved his style,
thought process, sincerity and intelligence.
Trudy, Jay, NY Project Censored 9/28/04 Project Censored needs to be covered in the main news programs: All Things Considered etc. Corporate news is, and or needs to be, made irrelevant; they have almost total national saturation by six or so conglomerates. The media today are: right wing, control the language, crush dissent, pro business, glorify war, and do not serve the public in any meaningful way. The question is: Is NPR corporate or “alternative,” quality, investigative, relevant and independent? The press and journalists, when negligent in their vital and constitutionally protected role of maintaining an informed citizenry, is a direct treat to our democracy, liberty and freedom. This is not a new idea. You have the responsibility, the duty. If not, then drop the word “public” and stop taking money from your listeners. I have personally spoken to dozens and dozens of listeners and ex-listeners, and they all agree that the NPR of 20-25 years ago was much more relevant, investigative and deserved/derived support from listeners. The Internet, cable, satellite are blowing you out of the water. Get Democracy Now! and make yourself relevant once again. My call, and the call of dozens and dozens of people, is for Democracy Now! (DN). Your management, and station representatives have resisted this call for many reasons (although, an average of three stations enlist for DN per week). NCPR reasons stated for not having DN for news are: “Advocacy journalism, poor quality and left wing.” You have said if you carry such a left wing show, you would have to balance it with a right wing show and this would lead to “ping pong” journalism. Go for it! Give this to us; it would be an enormous improvement over the middle of the road dribble that now poses as news. Try it for a few months and put it to a vote. NCPR has added two BBC programs: The 5-6 AM BBC show marginally passes as news (tailored for American audiences and not true BBC) but the evening show is dribble and entertainment, not news. As far as quality, yes DN has had a few bad days or poor phone connections to un-embedded journalists (30 have died in this war alone mostly at the hands of US troops) reporting first hand accounts of the wars. Wars, to remind you, that are funded with borrowed taxpayer dollars, and fought with the blood of our son’s and daughters, friends and neighbors. Enclosed is an article from Syracuse New Times, 9-15-04: Ten Important Stories the National Media Ignored. NPR needs to do these stories, not during “day” shows, but as part of the evening and morning news so that “The People” working/commuting/busy can hear what they’re not hearing from “The Press.” CC: NPR and NCPR Richard Paolillo, West Stockholm, NY Odyssey Hits No Homer (8/23/04) That Odyssey show is awful. It's a show-off contest on how intelligent the host Gretchen Helfrich is. You would do well to cancel it from your lineup. Jeff Rose, New York City Home Home on the Web (8/11/04) I am in Jochiwon, South Korea teaching English. I live in Massena and enjoy NCPR. I have been using my computer to listen while I am here. It is the only link I have to US news. I turn it on in the AM my time which is evening your time and listen to the news. I also listen in the evening before and after dinner and the evening class. I am very glad you are available on the Internet. Joan Westcott, Jochiwon, South Korea McGreevey Report Shows Bias (8/13/04) Yesterday I was listening to the news on NPR when the report came on about the New Jersey governor resigning. Throughout the few minutes of the report, the affiliation of the governor was never mentioned. I assumed he was a Democrat, since it was NPR reporting and if he were a Republican, it would have been mentioned in the very beginning because of the tawdry details. Then the report mentioned something about the Kerry campaign's concern, and I figured McGreevey was a Democrat. Your media bias is obvious and obnoxious. You insult all people with your bias. Let the people think for themselves. Barb Hawley, Los Angeles Willcott Incites Liberal Pride (7/29/04) Paul Willcot was able to put into words what I have felt for a long time. I greatly appreciate his commentary today on what it really means to someone who is, and proud to be, a "liberal." I cringe when I'm called unpatriotic if I don't fall lock-step behind the extreme Right's ultraconservative views. I have been so frustrated in being painted as unAmerican because I believe in freedom of religion (separation of church and state), freedom of the press, freedom of speech, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. If one were to read the United States Constitution and study history, they would find that being a liberal is soooo American! Mark Kurtz, Saranac Lake Willcott Incites Property Destruction (7/29/04) Please let me know when you decide to be an unbiased source of news. The commentary on being a liberal in this morning's 8 O'Clock Hour made me want to destroy my radio. Thats it for me and NCPR. Matthew Whelan, West Potsdam Is NPR Worth the Price? (7/19/04) I with perhaps other silent NCPR listeners have wondered if NPR is actually worth what seems the exorbitant costs of its often poorly done and extremely biased programs. I for one am sick to death of the Dick Gordon hour from WBUR. I also am not fond of much of Morning Edition and many of the fluffy fillers NPR uses. What is unique about NCPR is its local station personalities, who come across to me not as faceless, masked broadcasting professions. Rather, many of you come to me in impression as friendly, just plain folks. Think how much great, unique local programming and music you could offer by dumping 80 percent of NPR and doing things the old fashioned way. Gary, Highgate Springs, VT War Dialog Should Include All (7/15/04) Thanks, Ellen, for the report this morning from the Army War College. Though it was gratifying to hear that attendees shared my feelings toward our involvement in Iraq, the report was important in a much more fundamental way: it reminds us all that engagement in dialog with ALL members of our community is essential to ensure the exchange of ideas in the messy marketplaces of Democracy. We, outside of the military, need to be reminded that, though soldiers follow orders by necessity, they do not do so without opinion or understanding of issues. An important story to run when Fort Drum listeners need to be included in this dialog. With false patriotism used divisively in an election year, an important story for us all. Stephen Horne, Paul Smiths Reagan Funeral Last Straw (6/15/04) I've stopped listening to NCPR (in particular) and in NPR (in general). A week ago Monday, as one of the gushing reporters was going on and on about Reagan and His Wonderful Funeral, I decided to turn NPR OFF. Not just for the program, but for the long term.
By Tuesday, I'd reprogrammed my three radios - I wake up to Classical Vermont in the morning, have Classical Vermont at dinner, and have calculated that the ads there are no worse than the pledge drives (which I actually listened to ! Imagine--pledge drives are better than the average news coverage ! NPR is really hurting.) In one sense, I'm sorry that I don't listen anymore. But honestly, I'm happier gone. It was nice while it lasted, but it's time to move on. Ciao ... Steve Cavrak, Burlington VT
NPR Should Resist Pressure to "Simplify" 6/11/04 It has been my considered opinion, reached over years of thinking about the issue, that the assertion that there is "liberal bias" in the journalistic community, and for that matter in the academic community, is simply the result of advanced education and scholarship. Journalists are students of the subjects they write about. And the fact is that the more one studies problems, as journalists and academics do, the more one comes to realize that there are seldom simple answers to things, that issues often present themselves in shades of grey, rather than the simpler black and white which many (though not all) political and social conservatives seem to prefer. Thus, to most conservatives, the journalist students of complex political, social and public policy issues appear to be "liberal" in that they come to know too much about the subject to present simple answers. Sorry folks, but many things are much more complex and difficult to comprehend than simplistic ideolog ies would like. I hasten to add that there are sophisticated, knowledgeable conservatives to be found, in the general public, in journalism and in academia, but one usually finds they tend to work more strongly from an ideological base, a moralistic base often, which may govern their conclusions in the face of many of the complex issues which we face in a pluralistic and increasingly international world. I think the fundamental difference between liberals and conservatives is in their thinking methodology. Liberals tend to be empirical, building ther conclusions from observed and collected facts (inductive thinkers if you will). Conservatives usually work downward from first principles, fitting facts as they find them into a previously established and often fervently held principle or attitude. The current presidential administration in its considerations and actions on foreign policy issues proceeds in just such a way. The press, empirically inclined often objects, calling these policy makers on what seems to the journalistic mind decision making which flies in the face of well known facts, or too quickly in the face of profound complexities. Such journalists cry foul when they see that ideology will govern despite inconvenient information to the contrary. On social issues like gay marriage or abortion, again the conservative approaching the issue from a moral perspective may be deeply upset the the journalist (or academic) who points out that there may be other perspectives on the issue based on their observations of social realities which may not fit into an ideal picture which one might prefer. Abortion can be seen as murder, but in some cases other realities intrude, like pregnancies resulting from war rapes, or pregnancies which will proceed (based on medical evidence) to threaten the life of the mother. Obviously abortion is a complex issue, and the decisions we sometimes have to make are often not as clear cut as we fervently would like. Gay marriage is another social issue which escapes straightforward understanding. Homosexuality is a social reality, and apparently always has been, though managed in different societies and times in different ways. In our society at this time gay, lesbian and bi-sexual people exist with varying degrees of social acceptance. Their social and sexual needs and preferences are just as real as those of the "straight" community, and would seem under our civic sense of law to have equal rights. If marriage is seen as both a civil as well as a religious role in our society, why isn't it under our republican system of government to be available to all citizens? Thank you for this opportunity. I have often felt that thoughtful journalism needs to have a place within the spectrum of available media choices. Certainly the conservative has ample media sourcs to read, listen and watch. Let us remember to keep the channels open to thorough, thoughtful and detailed news coverage. Call it liberal if you will, but also call it responsible. NPR has provided for the last thirty five or so years a clarion voice on the radio which delves into issues with appropriate depth and consideration. This is a necessary alternative if we are to continue a society free in our thinking as well as in other ways. NPR should resist the pressures, funding and otherwise, that would have them trim their wicks and modify their conclusions to more closely accord with established social and governmental entities which see open thinking as threatening to society. Richard Lunt, Potsdam, NY
NPR " losing its critical perspective" 6/11/04 When you can hear on Public Radio that Ronald Reagan was "the most popular president of the modern era," which is simply not true, you begin to suspect that Public Radio is these days less & less public and more & more corporate. (According to the polls, Bill Clinton was the most popular president of the modern era, but you'd never know that from the recent coverage in the media, including NPR. Commercial media is saturated with right-of-center political views. I don't expect NPR to take on the task of counterbalancing this rightward tilt, I'd like to be able to expect real balance. The Pew study suggests that NPR has been co-opted by the dominant political paradigm. We have a situation where the most extreme right-wing views can be presented as falling within the mainstream, while at the same time the mildest liberal views are cast as radical, anti-American, etc. Though I am a decades-long financial supporter of NPR, I am increasingly tuning out. I get most of my political news & commentary from the internet these days. Now, NCPR's local programming is just fine. The station serves its diverse communities very well, I think. Less & less of what comes from the national network, though, is distinguishable from the media haze that comes through television & commercial radio. NPR is quickly losing its critical perspective. Joseph Duemer, South Colton
Where the Fairness Doctrine Went 6/6/04 I don't know if this qualifies as a post, but as it relates to the Fairness Doctrine and the recent passing of Ronald Reagan, I quote William Rivers Pitt from a recent editorial: http://www.truthout.org/docs_04/060704A.shtml " ...Mainstream media journalism today is a shameful joke because of Reagan's deregulation policies. Once upon a time, the Fairness Doctrine ensured that the information we receive - information vital to the ability of the people to govern in the manner intended - came from a wide variety of sources and perspectives. Reagan's policies annihilated the Fairness Doctrine, opening the door for a few mega-corporations to gather journalism unto themselves. Today, Reagan's old bosses at General Electric own three of the most-watched news channels. This company profits from every war we fight, but somehow is trusted to tell the truths of war. Thus, the myths are sold to us.
NPR: Liberal But Never Biased 6/6/04 I believe public radio tends to be very public. I realize that is not specific, so let me clarify. Public radio seems to appeal to a range of people and they seem often to be active in a variety of ways. I find public radio avoids the mainstream and I think that is good. I don't want to hear the newest rock song on public radio, instead I want to hear a Bach aria or a Etta James blues song. I think that the elitisst moniker comes from the constant admonition to think seriously about the music or commentary you hear on NPR. And yes, I think NPR is liberal but never biased. ATC constantly makes me think. Maybe if we hear Rush Limbough on NPR, that would cure NPR of its leftist leanings. But the great thing about NPR is that there is a place for him on NPR. So that possibly is my point, NPR is as inclusive as our society. With all its warts and blemishes, with all its flowers and beautiful sunrises, NPR is America. This is more meaningful because I listen from Japan. God(dess) bless the U.S.A. and keep NPR broadcasting! Kenneth Knodle, Potsdam (via Okinawa)
Plea for Better Balance 6/6/04 I certainly have no use for the likes of Rush Limbaugh, but find that NPR does tend to have a definite tilt to the left. The Connection, and All Things Considered/Morning Edition both look this way from my point of view. I am not a Pollyanna, and realize that we have serious issues with which to deal. At the same time, I do not think it appropriate to focus so completely on the negative side of events. Is there a radio counterpart to people like George Will? As one simple example, the frequent association made between the present adminikstration and its refusal to endorse the Kyoto Treaty seldom, if ever, mentions that the treaty was negotiated during the previous administration, and was rejected 95-0 by the senate. Air pollution and greenhouse gases are an important issue, but not necessarily a partisan one. And, the third world pays little attention to such issues. We need to do our part, but so does everyone else. My plea is for better balance. Ed Milner, Olmstedville, NY
Responding to Dvorkin: Media Bias Liberal, But Not Leftist 6/5/04 Come on Jeff. What NPR calls left is liberal on social issues, conservative on economic--although I'll admit that's an opinion I picked up on NPR, so it's not a firewall. I ask, why don't we hear from Noam Chomsky, for example? Maybe he's too abrasive, but you know, there are lots of real lefties that aren't. The laudable goals might really be laudable if you were to expand the "whole country" to the "whole world," and I think anyone would say your broadcast content would change a lot. I know your job is to take on all comers, but you don't want to slide too far from ombudsman to apologist. NPR takes up a space similar to the Democrats, the platform doesn't stand alone. It's only value is rooted in contrast to Republicans. Having said that, I think that yes, media in general has a liberal bias, but not a left bias. Liberals believe that we can regulate capitalism into something that won't destroy all we hold dear. Personally, I believe that running out of oil will have a much more positive effect than any political move the majority of our culture could ever codify. To many self interested porkers at the trough. It's going to be a hard wave to stay on, but the post petroleum beach could be very beautiful for the ones who make it. Mike Owen, Pierrepont
FCC Should Reinstate Fairness Doctrine 6/3/04 The basic problem is not whether this or that radio source (including NPR) is conservative or liberal. It is that, taken overall, radio does not provide politically-balanced information, and it currently has an overwhelming conservative bias. The root of this difficulty can be traced back to the demise of the so-called fairness doctrine, which required provision of equal air time for responsible proponents of opposing views. The FCC needs to reinstate this doctrine for both radio & television. David N. Carson, Long Lake
Hopes NPR Will Live Up to Goals 6/3/04 Thanks for posting this issue on your site. It would certainly have been easier to let it exist elsewhere in cyber space and say nothing here. While the results of the study are discouraging, still public radio has a unique mission to serve the citizens of this country that for-profit media conglomerates do not. For that reason, it's my hope that NPR will diligently live up to its goals. Jason King, Medford, MA
NPR Still Better than Most Media Outlets 6/3/04 Yes, you skew to the male perspective, and no, you do not cover enough international news. But compared to most American commercial radio, television, and print media, NPR still provides a relatively thorough and thoughtful news coverage & commentary as befits a "responsible media." And good jazz as well ;) Xu Xi, Morrisonville, NY NPR Needs More Liberal Voices to Balance Other Media 6/3/04 In general, NPR is less right wing than the networks. However, NPR, especially on the issue of SSM (same-sex marriage, ed.), adhers down the line, to the right-wing perspective. NPR needs many more liberal viewpoints to serve as a counter to the unremitting stream of conservative voices found in other broadcast media. Barry Bley, Macomb Looks Forward to Homecoming (5/20/04) I just want to say how thrilled I will be when the 41st Engineering Battalion/B. Co. returns from Bagram, Afghanistan later this month. My son, a medic with this company will be returning to Fort Drum and later to his family in Arkansas. I wish I knew when they were scheduled to arrive at Fort Drum, so maybe it will be on the news. I would love to be there but it is so expensive and I can't afford it, but at least he will be on US soil. Thank God. I know he will be thrilled to see his five-year-old daughter as soon as he gets to come home. Ann Brietz, Harrisburg, AR Hassig No "Hero" (5/4/04) Donald Hassig "Folk Hero"--please. I think perhaps "public enemy no. 1" would be more appropriate. The economy in the North Country is not stagnant, it is CRUMBLING before our very eyes. This self-proclaimed "hero" has had a hand in attempting to thwart ANY industrial progress in this region. I would be able to take his "anti-smokestack" views a lot easier if I didn't see him on television rail about air pollution and then get into his automobile and drive off. Oh, let me not forget--FREE healthcare, and FREE education. NY is the most heavily taxed state in the union. Does Mr. Hassig plan on chanting his way to these ends or does he plan on taxing me into poverty? Mr. Hassig and his brother are two of the most selfish, self-serving characters I have ever seen, and anyone who gives them any recognition only feeds their childish desire to get attention. Walter Relling, Lisbon TOTN "Tiresome" (4/26/04) I read recently that listeners to NPR had fewer misconceptions concerning Iraq than other network listeners. However, listening to Neal Conan's Talk of the Nation is tiresome. He seems to deliberately have conservative "Think Tankers" on regularly with opinions supporting the Bush administartion's continued occupation of Iraq. An alternative radio source, Democracy Now!, may be heard through the web at http://www.democracynow.org/. I suggest, in addition to NPR, listener's tune in this program for greater perspective. Gary, Highgate Springs, VT Speaking of Faith (and Dean) (4/5/04) Speaking of Faith makes me very uncomfortable. I went to Sunday school. I don't want to hear Bible stories nor comparisons of everyday life to the Bible. As Howard Dean said, we don't talk about faith in the North. I have my beliefs that encompass far more than Christianity. I'd like not to have that program on, though for what it is, it is interesting. Still, not a subject I want to hear. I think you can fill the time with other programs of general interest. How about the history of Lake Champlain and the Revolutionary War and War of 1812? Jill Martin, Richmond VT Cartoon Undermines Morale (4/8/04) Your editorial cartoon on April 8th was extremely tacky. Don’t you liberals realize that idiotic cartoons as such only serve to undermine the morale of U.S. troops? Heck, I should know better; your extreme hatred for President Bush does serious damage to your judgment. Craig, Lawrenceville Fast One Now Will Later be Slow (3/28/04) When I heard that programming was going to be preempted for the 9-11 hearings, I knew that the commission was packed with people who were personally responsible for the drafting of "homeland security" policy and therefore didn't expect any signifigant light to be shed on the questions they were charged with investigating. What I believe was to be learned--that is important--is that even when honest and forthright testimony is given, what it reveals about our nation is worse than the terrorist attacts: not only were these people incapable of preventing the horrors of 9-11, but that we will do the wrong thing again. In two days of question and answer I didn't hear a single Republican or Democrat ask for any information that would suggest that no one has ever bombed anyone into peace. I put it up to a national personality that reflects an imperial nation; we must dominate. Just as racism, sexism and homophobia are an embedded birthrigh of all Americans, so is nationalism, deadly violence, and the belief that one person can save us from these blights. This makes the teachings of Osama Bin-Laden, George Bush and John Kerry of equal value. We cannot coexist. Fortunately, for the world and eventually us, it won't matter much longer. Estimates indicate China will equal the US demand for oil by 2008. If the implications of this are not entirely obvious, check out this site: http://www.lifeaftertheoilcrash.net/ Have fun, for the fast one now will later be slow--and love to all who try to do something for the world. Mike Owen, Pierrepont Will Miss Bob Edwards(3/26/04) I am dismayed that Bob Edwards will be leaving Morning Edition. Please encourage the people who made this decision to reconsider! Marilyn Riotto, Lake Clear Enough Blame to Go Around (3/26/04) I was glad for the opportunity to listen to some of the two-day broadcast of the 9/11 investigation. I felt that at times it was very political. The questions asked by the Democratic and Republican members of the commission often reflected their political stance. I was impressed by the apology given by Richard Clarke to the families and friends of the victims. However, I have noted in subsequent interviews on news programs, members of the Bush administration have gone out of their way to say either clearly, or imply by their answers, that they were not responsible for 9/11. There is enough blame to go around to the current and past administrations--perhaps no one could have done anything to prevent the attacks. My question is: What has our governmennt done to prevent the larger world from thinking the US is a bully who wants to change any adminstration around the world if it does not agree with our kind/type of govenment? What has our government done to prevent armed conflicts with peaceful methods-- helping to end poverty and hunger around the world? What is our fear of taking world problems to the UN? But I digress; I did hear discussion that was valuable, if only to raise my concerns and fears, even further, for this country. Peggy Sperling, Ogdensburg North Country Bones (3/25/04) Some dear soul signed me up to receive The Listening Post and what a treat it is to see and hear. I haven't lived in |
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