There’s always a debate in American culture over the idea of “grassroots.”\u00a0 What does it mean to be directly supported by a community?<\/p>\n
Is there really a foundation of support for one political cause or another cultural institution?<\/p>\n
How can you tell how real that website is?\u00a0 Or that glossy brochure you get in the mail?<\/p>\n
North Country Public Radio doesn’t have that problem.\u00a0 When you turn on your radio, or go online, you can see how real we are.<\/p>\n
You find stories and music and ideas from your neighbors.\u00a0 You hear hosts and reporters who live here, rooted in this extraordinary place.<\/p>\n
And then, when pledge time comes round, you hear just how deep those grassroots go.<\/p>\n
If the phones ring, it’s a vote, an affirmation, a win for this experiment that we’re all undertaking together.<\/p>\n
Every thank-you that we offer up reflects one more person, taking up part of the load, adding their credibility, their spirit.<\/p>\n
Do I think it’s important for In Box readers to pledge as well?\u00a0 Absolutely.<\/p>\n
Frankly, I worry that the new on-line component of NCPR’s mission won’t be supported.<\/p>\n
Of all the experiments we undertake, this blog is one of the most experimental.\u00a0 A lot of people read it, but will they contribute?<\/p>\n
Will you be as real as we try to be?<\/p>\n
The cool thing is that any amount of support means a huge amount to us.\u00a0 $10?\u00a0 $20?<\/p>\n
If we get just ten pledges at that level today, mentioning the In Box, I’ll be overjoyed.<\/p>\n