S4E24: Desert Communities Need Public Broadcasting Now

90 Miles from Needles: the Desert Protection Podcast

Episode Summary:

In this landmark 99th episode of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," Chris Clarke sets the stage for the upcoming 100th episode celebration, inviting listeners to join a special recording featuring prominent writers and activists. The episode examines the impact of a massive budget cut to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, exploring how this decision threatens the viability of many local public media outlets, particularly in rural and tribal areas. Chris discusses the slashing of $548 million in funding from the CPB by the Trump administration, grounding the issue in a broader context of how public media serves as a lifeline for communities during emergencies and supports local culture and education. As cuts disproportionately affect stations serving communities of color and Native American tribes, public radio faces an existential threat, underscoring the podcast's commitment to amplifying voices and stories in endangered desert regions.

Key Takeaways:

The "90 Miles from Needles" podcast has reached its 99th episode, with plans for an interactive 100th episode featuring special guests and a live public reading. The Trump administration has enacted devastating cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, eliminating $548 million in grants that support local radio and television stations. Rural and tribal radio stations, such as those in Arizona and New Mexico, face significant funding challenges, potentially losing up to 96% of their budgets. A call to action is issued to support public media and the podcast, highlighting the critical role of listener contributions in sustaining independent journalism and storytelling.

Notable Quotes:

"The difference between having cuts take away 20 to 96% of your budget and having them take away 4% is public support." — Chris Clarke
"We have just under 200 people who have supported 90 miles from Needles financially through the last three and a half years." — Chris Clarke
"Republican cuts to local public radio and TV stations are reckless, dangerous and put New Mexicans directly in harm's way." — Quoting Senator Martin Heinrich

Resources:

Adopt A Station: https://adoptastation.org
90 Miles from Needles - Official Website: https://90milesfromneedles.com
Support Portal: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate
Project Blue Updates: https://www.instagram.com/no_desert_data_center/?hl=en
100th Episode Zoom link: https://90milesfromneedles.com/100

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

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