June 3, 2010

Michigan Radio Expanding Local News Coverage On-The-Air and Online

Station to create new Investigative Reporting Project

Dear listeners,

I'd like to make you aware of some exciting changes taking place at Michigan Radio. In the upcoming weeks, we will begin expanding our local news coverage, devoting more resources to investigative reporting, and greatly enhancing our online news content. These changes are based on your feedback, listener research we've conducted, and changes taking place to the media landscape all across the country. Here are some of the things you can expect to hear and see.

Beginning the week of June 7, Rebecca Williams takes over as the new host of The Environment Report. As part of that change, the program will shift to a greater focus on covering environmental issues directly affecting Michigan and the Great Lakes region. Tune in to Michigan Radio on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:55 am and 5:45 pm to hear the new sound of The Environment Report.

Lester Graham, the former host of The Environment Report, is moving into a new role heading up Michigan Radio's new investigative reporting project. His focus will be on uncovering stories related to government, education, the economy and other areas that may not be getting the attention they deserve, and make sure that the appropriate organizations and people are held accountable. If there are issues you think need a closer look, e-mail us your suggestions here.

Lastly, we're looking to augment the news and information you can find online at michiganradio.org. Over the coming months, you'll start seeing a redesign of our website, to include greater local, state and national news content, along with more audio, video, and photo slide shows related to the stories you hear on Michigan Radio.

We're looking forward to providing you with more of the news and information you've asked for!

Best regards,

Tamar Charney
Program Director