A producer at Pacifica radio outlet KPFA in Berkeley sent me this amusing Xtranormal skit, which works out his feelings about a proposal to hold a big “community party” at the station.
I’m not sure what the status of that idea is, and obviously the discussion is referential to the recent troubles at the station. But I think the piece is more properly considered in general terms that would apply to any such venue.
To what extent should a public radio station (from a listener supported pirate version through an NPR affiliate) function as a community center? To what extent should it, to use the Federal Communications Commission’s term, operate as an “anchor institution,” properly tasked with many functions besides broadcasting?
And what are the upsides and downsides of the community center approach?
I don’t know. I’m just asking.
