We have only one week to make a difference!  Please sign below by FEBRUARY 20, 2010.

Our great Evening Jazz Host, Len Pace will retire after 30 years of service and great jazz programming at 91.3 FM-WLRN, Miami. We congratulate him and thank him for sharing with us his love through music!

Unfortunately, however, WLRN is considering replacing Len with an automated jazz feed. This would mean no more live, organic interaction between our jazz community and local radio and its listeners. There will be no calling in to talk to Len, no local artist interviews, no direct support of local artist’s CD releases, and no on-air support of local jazz artist performances and announcements. And equally, we could risk the quality of our programming as local hosts definitely tend to be more adventurous and passionate, helping to expand our taste and expose us to vibrant new music.

As a South Florida jazz artist, I have directly experienced the support of WLRN. I have enjoyed knowing there is a local host entertaining us. That is what keeps public radio “public” and truly, “community-based.” For a difference of $7,000/year we might lose this vital voice in the South Florida jazz community.

I encourage you to please SIGN THIS PETITION by FEBRUARY 20.  It will be presented at Len's retirement party on February 21 at the School Board Auditorium as our collective gift to carry on a tradition that money cannot buy.

I also encourage you to become a member of WLRN or simply donate to the station to also show your support and appreciation of their great programming throughout the day.

If you would like to submit your own letter, I recommend the following contacts:

Dr. Solomon Stinson, Chair of the Dade Public School Board 305.995.1334 -sstinson@dadeschools.net

Mr. John La Bonia, General Manager for WLRN 305.995.1000 - jlabonia@wlrn.org

Mr. Rick Lewis, President of Friends of WLRN 305.350.7968 - rlewis@friendsofwlrn.org

As always, thank you for your support of Jazz in our community.

Warm Regards, Nicole Henry

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