Hello, I'm Dr. Jerold Gruebel, President of your public television station.

We entered spring with a $400,000 shortfall of funds, which could result in hours of program service to be cut, and some of your favorite programs may have to be dropped from a shortened line-up.

From the beginning of this long recession to date, your station has lost state funding, and nearly $1 million in private foundation grants and trust contributions.

So, we come to you, to help the station make it through the summer months.  I'm pleased to say that thanks to your support, we have raised the first $100,000 of the amount needed.

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting tells us that we are underperforming with regards to membership.  Nationally, 10% of public television viewers support their station generously.  Here in western and central Illinois, and northeast Missouri, it is 6%...WE FALL WAY SHORT!  It will take 2,000 more viewers to step forward.

If you're already a member, please consider an additional gift.

Between Decatur and Hannibal, and including those of you in Springfield, Jacksonville, Macomb and Quincy, and all points in between I know we can grow our membership.

Every gift is important to keep us going and to protect Big Bird.

Pledge online, mail in your checks without delay, or call now.  If you call after hours,

please leave your name, the amount of your pledge and your telephone number

and address, and we will call you back to complete your pledge.

Thank you.