But over the latest year, fall 1998 to fall 1999, the less obedient stations KPFA and WBAI grew about as fast as the Houston station in average audience. Altogether, the five stations added 33 percent to their average audience during that year and 9 percent to their cumes. In time spent listening, the audience of standout WBAI spent 36 percent more time with it last fall than in fall 1998. Though the board took criticism stoically, two members said they're resigning before their terms expire. These days, Pacifica is embattled at every turn.
Several lawsuits are pending.
Some 40 stringers are striking against Pacifica Network News in protest of the dirty-laundry policy. Some 20 stations are carrying the substitute instead. In Santa Barbara, Calif., KCSB cancelled PNN in support of the stringers' strike. The Landau appeal was hardly a ringing defense of Pacifica. To Current's home page .