We must continue to strive for excellence in journalism using the unique tools of our medium to be open to story possibilities, to ask the probing questions, and to take the time to convey those stories to our listeners In an era of consolidation among media and the loss of fellow radio broadcasters at all levels, public radio news people need to keep the competitive fires burning and not rest on the accomplishments of the past. We need to keep moving forward. We also need to remind people we exist. We can't forget those who don't listen to public radio and have never heard of it. On a more mundane level, funding is always a concern.
Radio is a portable, user-friendly medium.
We bring news and public affairs programming to people as they're waking up, in the shower, driving in their cars, cooking dinner, etc. Decades ago, there were those who thought radio would become obsolete because of television. The role of the Internet and other such technologies are raising that issue now. But as a medium, we continue to adapt and see the possibilities to expand our listenership and bring in new voices and perspectives. As long as people have ears and we continue to tell and listen to stories, I see a bright future for public radio.