goodbye, Odyssey

Odyssey, my favorite station on Chicago Public Radio, was just axed due to funding decisions. I'm really pissed and upset. The decision sounds pretty final, but perhaps an outpouring of letters from listeners who appreciate good public programming will help? Please check out some of the shows for yourself (the show is great b/c of the wide range of ideas and topics discussed) and appeal to the powers that be by sending an email. Here's the message on the Odyssey webpage:

Dear Odyssey Listeners,

As you may have heard, the Chicago Public Radio Board of Directors has decided to cease funding for Odyssey. The program will end production on September 30, 2005.

Since its debut on January 5th, 1998, Odyssey has made many friends—too many to thank here. Most important to us, though, are our friends in the audience. You, the listeners, have been invaluable to the program. Your support and input (you've never been shy about letting us know what you think) have kept us on our toes and encouraged us to do our best. You prove that public radio is made great not by financial contributions, but by active engagement with the programming you hear. We want to thank you, and to say that it has been a pleasure making radio for you.

Without sounding too much like a lounge act, we want to remind you that we will be here through September, 2005. So stick around and keep listening. It's gonna be fun.

Thanks, and remember to tip your server.

Gretchen Helfrich