Columns
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
honoring public radio in april, all year long
All Iowans, regardless of age can appreciate National Public Radio (NPR), which has provided us all with programming that has challenged and refreshed Americans by deepening our understanding and appreciation of events, ideas, and cultures. In April, Public Radio Recognition Month, we should pause and recognize 38 years of distinct and valuable broadcasting.
Some 33 million Americans tune into public radio programming across more than 800 public radio stations, providing popular programming including ‘Morning Edition’, ‘All Things Considered’, ‘A Prairie Home Companion’ and ‘This American Life.’ I appreciate NPR’s value and commitment to community-based, balanced, and fact-based journalism.
Across America, family and friends still gather around the radio to listen to NPR programming. I mean, who needs caffeine in the morning when you can listen to ‘Morning Edition’, as I do every day driving to work. On Saturday evenings, my wife Ruth and I tune into ‘Prairie Home Companion’.
I am especially grateful for Iowa public radio’s diverse programs including ‘Backtracks’, ‘The Exchange’, and ‘Java Blend’. Thanks to Iowa public radio, across the state you and I can find programming that is both entertaining and informative. Iowa public radio has met the needs of Iowans by providing locally licensed, locally staffed, and locally tailored programming since 2004.When I am on the go, Iowa public radio has become my go-to place for local news and events.
From music, to news, to a good story, public radio has something for everybody. NPR has always been a great car ride companion for me, and I hope the next time you and your friends and family go on a trip, you bring public radio along for the ride.
