WJCT becoming home station of NPR series

Al Letson at WJCT announcement on Wednesday.

An award-winning, nationally-syndicated public radio show that got its start in Jacksonville is going to be staying in the River City.

State of the Re:Union, created by poet and playwright Al Letson, has told stories about communities around the country for more than four years.

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Letson's been working on the show in Jacksonville, but says he recently got offers from public radio stations around the country to move the show. Rather than leave town, WJCT will become the presenting sponsor for the national broadcasts.

"I thought about those offers a lot, but I really did not want to leave Jacksonville," Letson said. "This is my home. This is where my family is, and this is where I want to continue to grow."

Letson added that the new partnership will give State of the Re:Union stability so that it can continue into the future.

"With its focus on fostering dialog, furthering community and showcasing educational issues, State of the Re:Union reflects the values in WJCT's mission," said the station's CEO, Michael Boylan. "We are proud to take the lead in making this program possible, both for our local listeners and the vast listening audience across the U.S. That have come to enjoy the series."

WJCT, 89.9 FM, will air several episodes back-to-back on Aug. 3, starting at noon.