Why those PBS telethons are important

The New York Times reported that the phenomenal PBS newscast "NewsHour with Jim Lehrer" is experiencing some of its most difficult financial times right now. With corporate sponsorship harder to come by, the aging Lehrer, 74, won't speak about a potential replacement to anchor the show.

NewsHour is not the only PBS show mentioned. Some of my personal favorites such as "Nova" and "Antiques Roadshow" have found they must experiment with new types of funding models, since corporate sponsors want to know more about audience and use these sponsorships as marketing tools rather than solely philanthropically.

My aunt used to volunteer in Iowa answering phones during the PBS telethon, and I remember being excited about seeing her on TV. I no longer have that giddiness about seeing someone I know on television, I know how it works now, I am gaining a better understanding of why those telethons are so important. Supporting the broadcasting that isn't tailored to attract advertisers rather than educate may become a necessity in the future, especially if public television refuses to lower itself to the depths of traditional networks. I mean, there can only be one OC Tree Hill 90210, right?

Check out Jim in Charlie Rose's greenroom: