Obviously, the arts are not the first issue that leaps to mind when one thinks of this year’s U.S. presidential race. But is it really necessary for both candidates to completely ignore such issues as arts education, federal support for artists and performers, and the future of the NEA? “I suppose you could try to dismiss arts issues as a tangential topic in a campaign where war, terrorism and the economy are the driving issues. But the arts touch our lives and those of our children daily. Can you honestly say the same about gay marriage?”
Tag: 10.17.04
Ratings vs. Tradition
Public radio’s ratings have a disturbing habit of plunging over the weekend, mainly because commuters make up a large chunk of the daily listenership. And in fact, most weekend shows on public stations fit into a distinctive mold: one-hour blocks focused on specific niche audiences, with an eye towards cultivating a narrow but loyal listenership. Minnesota Public Radio is trying to change the model with a heavily researched new program designed around short, “bite-sized” news items and features, the better to fit into the average listener’s hectic weekend schedule. But an angry backlash against the show is building among industry insiders who are decrying the “Wal-Marting” of public radio.
Is America’s Free Press In Danger?
From the FCC crackdown to judges who feel free to lock up reporters who refuse to reveal their sources, first amendment activists have had a lot to complain about this year. Frank Rich claims that such recent events make the Bush Administration the biggest threat to free expression since Nixon, and worries that much of the nation seems perfectly willing to accept censorship and outright media intimidation, so long as the resulting “news” coverage conforms to their political point of view.