In Stern-est tones

WONDER no more about where one of Howard Stern’s audience went [“Trying to Corral Stern’s Lost Herd,” by Martin Miller, April 11]. As a 20-year listener, I tuned in because, good or bad, I never knew what he would say. Then too, when his humor didn’t interest me, I still stayed to the end because he might do a great interview next. When Stern got the Sirius deal, he committed the cardinal sin. He got boring. I knew what he was going to rant on about and he did, day after day, hour after hour. It became apparent early on he was beating the drums for his next gig, and selling it relentlessly. On his current boss’ dime. It wasn’t that I was cheap. I’d have paid to not listen. He’s been replaced with books on tape ... or I give Adam Carolla a try. I’m dating others but not making a commitment.

TARA ROTH MADDEN

San Clemente

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THERE is no mystery to where the Stern legions went. We didn’t go anywhere. We are stuck with crappy radio. Aside from NPR, Stern has the only show worth listening to. However, like most Stern fans, I am firmly ensconced in the middle class. With increased costs of energy, gas, food, healthcare, the uncertainty of retirement, the skyrocketing cost of state universities, the shaky job market, and the astronomical cost of housing, the minimal cost of decent radio service is simply beyond the family budget. Howard had to make the jump to satellite because of the insane social policies of a GOP-controlled FCC. The irony is that many of his fans cannot afford to follow.

BRANDON BITTNER

Royersford, Pa.