To the editor:

Dave Howard is aggrieved that Kansas Public Radio (KANU-FM) no longer carries the Metropolitan Opera. I assume that he is taking this posture as a supporter of public radio, either through a cash contribution or a donation of time during pledge drives. In that case, I’m sure that he is aware that contributors are always asked for their comments regarding programming and, I know for a fact, these comments are studied closely as programming decisions are made. He must also know that the amount of money a particular program generates during the pledge drive is taken as an indicator of listener interest.

Unfortunately, approximately 90 percent of the listening public does not fall in the category of listener member; they neither convey directly to radio personnel their listening preferences nor do they support the local station monetarily. Far too many listeners appear to feel that the “public” in their name means that KPR-KANU exists only to satisfy the public, which they do to a great extent, as well as the fact that the station is supported by the public. In this sense, the station reflects its listeners’ preferences.

Opera is not my hobby, nor is bluegrass, but I feel fortunate to have access to a station that tries to please as many of its listeners as it can given the realities of its financial situation. Perhaps Mr. Howard could drum up enough financial support to justify reinstating the Met, thereby rounding out the selections more to his liking.

Ruth Fine,

Lawrence