Piece Comment

Review of Tejidos Culturales 12-Japanese-American Community in the Valley


Interesting information about a troubling time in our history. This piece is part 12 in a 13-part series, apparently focusing on the origins of various ethnic communities in the Alamosa, Colorado community. I would have appreciated more information about the series, either in a written description or in the "intro" of the show.

I assume that the producer/host Sarah Parker is a volunteer. That being the case, this is an impressive effort, especially in the context of a series of 13 shows.

Sarah is a soft-spoken yet earnest and expressive host, obviously interested and engaged in the subject matter. So much so that, at the end of the program she offers a statement of opinion and exhortation that in light of today's climate of terrorism, "we must be sure that this never happens again." Stations that use the piece should be aware of this variation of seeming journalistic objectivity

As with many programs posted to PRX, this piece has a very local or regional focus. It will be difficult for stations outside Alamosa or the Southwest region to find a use for it.

As can be expected in volunteer community radio, the program suffers from some technical problems such as issues with audio levels and the quality of telephone interview segments. I enjoyed the use of music under the voice tracks but it is sometimes very soft and nearly inaudible.

For those willing to overlook it's weaknesses, this is a program that has much valuable information and food for thought resulting from the personal stories of the people who were interviewed here.