A life close to nature inspires this couple to support Nebraska’s public radio and television programming.
Tom Stalder and Eileen Rock look out from their sunlit kitchen window at a quiet creek, bordered by graceful oak trees and sweet-smelling lilacs.
They both grew up in the country, Tom near Falls City and Eileen in Iowa, so after living 20 years in Lincoln, they were glad to return to familiar open spaces on their property near Brainard.
“Our recreation time is being out in the woods, tending to our large garden and birding. Being outdoors is good for the soul,” said Eileen.
Both retired physicians, the two met as students at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Tom introduced Eileen to public radio. “I discovered public radio during medical school while I was driving home for the holidays. I was amazed by the news coverage and discussions,” he said.
They enjoyed public radio during residencies in Maine and started watching PBS News Hour, NATURE and NOVA when they returned to Lincoln and settled into their careers. “Our three sons watched Sesame Street, and we all watched The Red Green Show together,” said Eileen. “On the way to the kids’ events, we’d listen to Car Talk and the weekend programs.”
Tom and Eileen began supporting Nebraska Public Media with donations to spring and fall radio drives, then transitioned to matching donations as Trailblazers. They donated to the recent renovation of the Ron Hull Studio and upon the recommendation of a financial advisor, started making charitable contributions from their individual retirement accounts.
“It was very easy to fill out the paperwork and our advisor takes care of all the details for us,” said Tom.
Eileen says supporting public media makes her happy and provides a sense of pride and ownership. “It’s a privilege to make sure it’s available for our kids and grandkids, and everyone else. It’s an important resource.”
In the winter, Tom and Eileen bake pizzas for family and friends in a wood burning pizza oven in their kitchen. Tom harvests acorns and buckeyes, starts little seedlings and gives them away. Eileen germinates tiny plants and shares their summer bounty. It’s generosity that extends to public media.
“Years ago, we decided we wanted to do our fair share,” said Eileen.