Dear Member,
   I’m looking forward to a great month of fantastic programming with you. As usual, Stan and Robin have brought us the best national programming, complemented by unusual programming from independent producers. We often hear that this mix of programming makes KRCB Television and Radio the best in public broadcasting in the Bay Area.

   The additional really unique element in our radio programming is an incredible team of volunteer hosts. Most of what you hear in the evenings and on the weekends are programs that have been developed by individuals who are passionate about local public radio. They come in week after week (in many cases, year after year!) to share that passion with you. The eclectic mix of music they share is often complemented by bits of “insider” information about the singer, the band or the songwriter.     Whatever you tune in for—jazz, roots, classical, Sonoma Spotlight, and so much more—know that KRCB’s volunteer programmers are dedicated to bringing you the best of the genre.  Give them a shout and let them know how much you appreciate everything they do for KRCB and the community.

Sincerely,

   April is, of course, our super duper Travel and Leisure Auction, as is clearly apparent from this Open Air. Mariah and her team have scoured the globe for great items for your bidding. As you see, you can view items on line now, and online bidding will be open on April 16.
   This auction is an important source of income for KRCB. Hundreds of volunteers and donors make this great event possible. Because so many items are available for online bidding, please send the word of the auction to your friends and family across the country. We are particularly reaching out to Canada this time ’round so send messages in that direction, too! Also, share your own great travel adventures at krcb.org/traveltalk, where you can upload your photos and videos as well.
   Have a great vacation or trip and support your PBS & NPR station at the same time.

Sincerely,

Nancy Dobbs, President and CEO

One of the little known programming services that your membership with KRCB supports is Learn to Read, an educational program  geared to adults who are learning to read. KRCB has aired this weekly television program—seen Mondays at 10:30 am—for more than 10 years. Reading is such a critical survival skill, and it is so often taken for granted. But for many among us that ability is not at all a given, and having the lessons available at home where one is spared public embarrassment is a gift your membership makes possible.

We have learned over the years that the program is also used by folks who are learning English for the first time, because it is a good, clear set of lessons in spoken and written English.

 In addition to Learn to Read,  KRCB Television airs GED on TV in both English (Tuesdays at 10:30 am) and Spanish (Thursdays at 10:30 am). Again, for those who were unable, for whatever reason, to finish their high school diploma, watching the lessons at home is a safe place to work towards that all-important diploma. Especially as Adult Schools are, unfortunately, losing funding, KRCB’s offering to the community of these three programs is critical.

Finding businesses that recognize the value of these important programs and will support their airing, is always an issue for us. If you are such a business person, willing to assist those in our community who could use a supportive hand, give Stan Marvin a call at 707-584-2010 and let him know you’re ready to help.

Dear Member,
   Here at the station we have been spending a lot of time lately working on the concept of expanding our service to our local communities. A friend of the station recently suggested an adjustment to the regular concept of “network.” We should conceive of ourselves not as a part of a network but rather as providing and creating a network among local groups, using our on-air and on-line capacities to accomplish this. Perhaps we use radio and television to introduce folks to on-line communities which form around a program or a local band or a shared issue, offering everyone a chance to meet up with folks of similar interests and concerns. Connecting audiences, if you will.
    We, as a community, might reap remarkable and unanticipated results: Do we re-learn the concept of community involvement and engagement; do we become a community of learners and doers; do we consciously and purposefully put our collective attention to making the North Bay the best possible community? Certainly food for thought in the world of new media.
   I believe that KRCB—as our locally owned, locally controlled, locally programmed media resource—is a key element in achieving this potential. We’re lucky to have it, thanks to you!

Sincerely, Nancy