The announcement that four foundations had decided to withdraw their hold on WDUQ has left me with questions.
“The group worked hard for a month to determine how the radio station would add value to the original project in relation to the cost. What we in the foundations group have determined is that we are not enough along in that analysis and in our solicitation of community input, and will not be by July 2.” In published reports and in an interview with WDUQ, representatives of the foundation effort said the group was looking to find ways to grow journalism in the region at a time when many news outlets are facing financial difficulties. "
Did the foundations have difficulty getting input? Did the foundations find the problem too broad to come up with a solution for WDUQ? Did the foundations underestimate the complexity of the issue?
Saving in-depth journalism is an issue that goes beyond public media with interest coming from many parties. The Knight Commission has some interesting analysis and thought on this issue. Recently there was an interesting Article in the Atlantic about Google's ventures into saving journalism.
Saving WDUQ as an NPR station would help in keeping the community informed. There are no other NPR news outlets serving the Pittsburgh market. Saving WDUQ as an NPR station is only a part of the answer.
Did the foundations want to answer something much broader? If so, I have to agree two months is much too short a time frame. Getting started...trying something to keep the public informed can begin anytime.
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