National Public Radio (NPR) Customer Service Issues

I am concerned that NPR is not covering the current events in Peru during the elections. It is important to acknowledge that Latino and Hispanic are not races, and instead, the term "Spanish speaking people" should be used. Please consider this perspective. Thank you for taking the time to address this matter. Hopefully, this message will reach the appropriate individuals at NPR. - N.W.

Dear NPR, I am a listener of VPR in Burlington, VT. I have noticed that in your reporting on immigration from Mexico to the United States, your news anchors and reporters often mention "migrants" who have crossed the border "illegally" in large numbers. There seems to be a lack of explanation on how such a high volume of migrants could cross the border illegally at well-monitored checkpoints. While there may be instances where migrants cross illegally using deceptive methods, the sheer quantity of people crossing in this way without detection seems implausible. It is crucial to remember that individuals have the legal right under international law to seek asylum at a border and must be processed accordingly. Therefore, those seeking asylum through official channels are not breaking the law by crossing the border. I urge you to incorporate these important points into your future newscasts to provide a more balanced understanding of the issue. Thank you for your attention to this concern. Best regards, Peter Hoffmann

I used to be a big fan of NPR but since returning from China, I've noticed a decline in balanced, fact-based reporting, including NPR. The recent coverage of Brett Kavanaugh was biased, portraying him negatively without considering all the facts. The lack of accountability for those making accusations is concerning. NPR's reporting appears biased, and the organization's integrity is in question. I would like to address my concerns with Jarl Mohn directly. NPR needs to re-evaluate its approach to reporting and ensure it remains neutral and factual.

Central Maine Power continues to disappoint us, their customers in the Moose River Valley. They are now planning to compromise our region to provide power to Massachusetts. The people in Jackman, Moose River, Dennistown, Long Pond, Enchanted, Spencer, West Forks, Moxie, and Caratunk are concerned about the impact on our environment, economy, and way of life. We love our area and want to raise awareness about the proposed corridor that could harm the wilderness we value. We, the community, are coming together to oppose this project that threatens our home. We are seeking support to stop this from happening. The project may be promoted as green, but the reality is different. Our voices need to be heard. Together, we can make a difference and protect our land for future generations.

I recently listened to a fascinating segment by Nancy Wilson on Miles Davis' musical history, and it was truly mind-blowing! Any Miles Davis enthusiast would love to have this in their collection. The presentation by Nancy Wilson was exceptional. After reaching out to the local Portland station, I discovered that the segment is available to the public through them. I now turn to you as my final option to obtain a copy of at least the first broadcasted session. Being an avid Miles Davis collector since hearing his "Round About Midnight" album, I am eager to add this to my collection. Kindly assist me in obtaining the first session narrated by Nancy Wilson.

I am trying to identify the artist and song played on Wy sounds around 8:32 am on Dec 30, [redacted]. The song was possibly titled "Nobody Rides the Railroad Anymore" by an artist that sounded like Michael Batdorf. I have been unsuccessful in finding a contact number to reach the DJ on air directly after the song for this information. I would greatly appreciate any assistance in determining the artist. You can contact me via call, text, or email. - Anne M. [redacted]

On a Sunday, or perhaps it was on Feb 1st or 2nd, I listened to a program discussing various stories about Chinese businesses and other venues that had stolen intellectual property. The host of the program asked for listener experiences on this topic. Regrettably, I do not recall the host's name or the program title. Nevertheless, I'd like to share my own experience. I run a business called Talkpower: A Panic Clinic for Public Speaking. For years, I traveled to Beijing, China to conduct my unique Neural Scientific Workshops at a public speaking school. Over three years, I visited China every three months to lead my workshops for Chinese businesspeople. I developed a close relationship with the Chinese family that owned the school. However, they recently relocated to Canada and without my knowledge, registered their company under the name Talkpower International. When they visited New York, I confronted them about appropriating my business name. Despite my concerns, they did not acknowledge any wrongdoing, which deeply hurt me. I sought legal advice, but was told I could not take action because their school was registered in Canada. After grappling with this betrayal and subsequent illness, I reluctantly accepted the situation. Unexpectedly, three months ago, they reached out to inform me that they would cease using my name. I was taken aback by their defensive response and refusal to admit to appropriating a name I had used for over 25 years.

I am seeking legal assistance for a family member who is being involuntarily given drugs at the women's prison in Gig Washington. The drug "Ability" is affecting her cognitive abilities, causing memory issues and a foggy mindset. My wife, the inmate, has developed a severe skin rash on both arms due to these drugs, which I have photographic evidence of. The prison's use of these drugs is harmful, and my wife wishes to stop taking them. I am having trouble finding a lawyer to help with this situation. Any guidance would be much appreciated. -Robert Dorcy. [redacted]

I have been a loyal listener to your station for over 30 years, but I am deeply troubled by the use of the term "Persian" in a racist manner, especially during the spring season. The celebration of the new year that is often promoted on your station does not belong to just one group of people, and it is offensive to label it as the "Persian New Year". The people who identify as Persian today are not necessarily true Persians and their actions can be considered racist and prejudiced. There is a history of discrimination and degrading attitudes towards various ethnic groups in Iran, such as Arabs, Baluchis, Kurds, Mazandaranis, Azerbaijanis, and Turkmen, which is unacceptable. Despite bringing up this issue several times to your attention in the past, it has been consistently ignored. Therefore, I plan to escalate this matter to national TV stations. I urge you to address this racist behavior and take immediate action to stop the use of offensive language. Sincerely, Naser Alamdari

On 5/16/20, I have been advocating for NPR Radio to consider airing Mr. Harvey Stauffer's "Blues Revue Show" nationally, following the cancellation of the Chicago Blues Festival due to the pandemic. The absence of the festival has left many Blues fans in Chicago disappointed. I believe broadcasting Ole' Harve's show, which airs on NPR station WVPE.org in Elkhart, Indiana every Saturday and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM E.S.T., would uplift the spirits of Blues enthusiasts. Despite multiple emails to the NPR Talent Department with this proposition, I have yet to receive a response. In light of the current situation, I’ve penned a poem titled "WE ARE STRONGER THAN THIS" to reflect on our resilience during these challenging times. Namaste, Peter Wehle.

I am concerned about the perceived bias in a government-funded organization like NPR. The handling of news related to democrats involved in controversial situations, such as Hunter Biden, feels one-sided. NPR dismissing the Hunter Biden story as Russian misinformation without thorough fact-checking seems concerning. The way they report news appears to lean heavily towards supporting the DNC, feeling more like propaganda than objective journalism. Perhaps reconsidering NPR's funding could prompt a more balanced and unbiased approach to reporting news.

I am reaching out because in your coverage this morning (Dec. 26, [redacted]), you discussed the case of Lisa Montgomery, a woman on death row for a terrible crime involving the murder of a friend and theft of her unborn child. I am concerned that your story did not mention the severe physical and sexual abuse Lisa endured from childhood, including being sold to men, forced into a hysterectomy, and suffering immense trauma that impacted her mental health. Experts argue that her severe mental illness should exempt her from the death penalty. Lisa and her legal team are advocating for life in prison without parole. Failing to provide this background information in your reporting does a disservice to Lisa Montgomery, denying her humanity and potentially justifying a harsh punishment she may not deserve.

I contributed $[redacted] to NPR last year, approximately $35 monthly. I aimed to lessen my donation to $10 a month for [redacted]. Despite calling the Development Dept five times and leaving messages, no one responded or returned my calls. I also emailed giving@npr multiple times with no response since Feb 5. I now wish to cease all donations due to my frustration. Kindly acknowledge my request to discontinue my automatic donations. Andrea Barron From: Andrea Barron Sent: Friday, February 5, [redacted] 1:47 PM To: NPR Development Subject: FW: PLEASE RESPOND --- VERY DISAPPOINTED IN NPR RE: Your [redacted] Tax Acknowledgment Importance: High Hello, I previously reached out and received no response. Despite leaving voice messages, I have not heard back. Disappointed in NPR's lack of communication. Still waiting for a reply. Andrea Barron From: Andrea Barron Sent: Monday, February 1, [redacted] 10:33 AM To: NPR Development Subject: PLEASE RESPOND --- RE: Your [redacted] Tax Acknowledgment Dear NPR Development, I donated $[redacted] last year and wish to donate $10 monthly this year. Kindly confirm receipt and set up the new amount. Thank You, Andrea Barron

An unidentified female, possibly Nora Rahm, on NPR News radio at 12:03 AM on July 17, [redacted] (not Tamara Keith), mentioned the inappropriate and unprofessional alteration of the word "administration" to "Biden ministration." This trend on NPR is spreading and needs to be addressed. While I respect the freedom of speech, allowing this distortion of English is concerning. I suggest that all NPR staff members have a reminder to say "Obama administration" and "Biden administration" near their microphones. This issue is not only with NPR, but it seems to be a widespread problem across all networks due to news directors turning a blind eye. The mispronunciation of "president" is another example of this trend. It's time for NPR and other networks to pay attention to the correct usage of the English language.

I believe the news coverage is biased and lacks a platform for feedback. While discussions on supporting child credits and low-income citizens are prevalent, there is a lack of dialogue involving the needs of single elderly individuals, the middle/upper middle class, and issues like the SALT tax. The tax burden on this demographic, particularly those making $200k to $300k per year, is increasing substantially, potentially leading to a society reliant on government aid and benefiting the wealthy. Concerns about taxation, retirement benefits, healthcare expenses, and property taxes for seniors are valid but often overlooked. The current system seems structured to deplete savings and push the elderly to sell their homes. There appears to be a lack of focus on senior citizens in recent political proposals, with no clear benefits outlined for them. This perspective, highlighted during the pandemic, has led some individuals, including myself, to shift towards conservative leanings due to perceived neglect by the Democrats. A more balanced representation of both viewpoints is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.

Windsor Johnston's slanted portrayal of the positions taken by Kyrsten Sinema and Joe Manchin, who are described as "centrist" or "moderate" Democrats. The use of subjective language in NPR news reporting should not be accepted. News reporters must strive for impartiality. They should refrain from using biased words. Sinema and Manchin's actions are not in line with the majority of elected Representatives, suggesting they are not truly at the center or reflective of the broader Democratic population. It is essential for journalists to present the news objectively without injecting personal opinions. The focus should be on presenting the plain facts without unnecessary embellishment. Maintaining impartiality is key for NPR's credibility.

I hope you find the following important. We, by your definition, are affluent, suburban, mostly (but not exclusively) white moms who listen to our state's NPR station. At a recent meeting, we discussed the story of an NPR representative who was "worried" about equity, diversity, and the racial makeup of NPR employees and staff. We were greatly offended by these statements - what difference should that make? Now, at another meeting, we discussed the Supreme Court report of someone not wearing a mask when asked, which was confirmed to be false by judges and the Chief Justice. Here is what we decided: We will no longer send any money to our state's NPR stations and we are going to write to demand a refund of the money we have already sent them. Thank you for informing us how much you do not value your (former) supporters.

I hope NPR will consider the following as important. We, as affluent suburban moms who primarily listen to our state's NPR station, were offended by recent discussions about equity and diversity among NPR employees. We found it unnecessary. Also, a false report about a Supreme Court justice not wearing a mask further disappointed us. As a result, we have collectively decided to cease all financial contributions to our state's NPR stations. We will be contacting them to request a refund of any previous donations. We no longer wish to support NPR. Thank you for the insight into your lack of appreciation for your former supporters. No response is needed from NPR as we have already made the decision to permanently withdraw our financial support. Goodbye and continue to "be woke".

I am an 81-year-old who studied under Buckminster Fuller at Southern Illinois University in [redacted]. I was involved in building the first geodesic dome on Earth, giving me knowledge about domes. I recalled a conversation with a key figure regarding the Chernobyl disaster "fix" that wouldn't work due to seams leaking radiation. I proposed a solution involving constructing a [redacted]-meter geodesic dome to contain the spread of radiation with innovative carbon fiber triangles. Engineers in Huntsville, Al., recognized me as "The Dome Guy" and discussed this as the only viable solution. I urge for this idea to reach Nina Totenberg as it offers a quicker and cost-effective resolution compared to the ineffective current approach. It's time to think creatively and implement a real solution to this Earthly issue.

I am part of the Mitchell Linden civic association, representing over [redacted] families. An issue impacting [redacted],[redacted] families in New York City is the introduction of Local Law 97 by the city council to reduce carbon emissions. Complying with this law is financially unfeasible for our 50s-built co-ops and could bankrupt many of the [redacted],[redacted] affordable housing units. Our property valued at $42 million requires $62 million in upgrades per our engineer's assessment, leading to financial hardship. We are hosting a meeting on August 15 and seek NPR's involvement or insight. I regularly listen to NPR and recently heard a story about the city's homeless crisis, realizing the additional burdens of this legislation. I have supported public radio for over 25 years and believe in your commitment to such important issues. Contact me at [redacted] or [redacted]. Your help on this matter is greatly appreciated. Thank you, Marilyn B.