Oregon Experience: "The Art Makers" Premieres on May 22

Last modified on May 13, 2008 02:25 PM

Modern art is an old story in Oregon -- about 100 years old, by some accounts.

These days, active and diverse art scenes flourish throughout the state. Oregon's art-friendly reputation extends nationally and beyond. But all this has been a long time in the making. "The Art Makers," a new episode of OPB's Oregon Experience series, explores the art and the artists that paved the way. Tune in to Oregon Public Broadcasting on May 22 at 9pm and see the state of the arts in Oregon in a whole new light.

The arts in Oregon are alive and seemingly everywhere. The state boasts thousands of accomplished artists and hundreds of art galleries -- about 80 in Portland alone. Publications tout the big city's "exploding" art scene, and even small towns now have their own gallery walks, studio-tour weekends and seasonal art fairs.

But not too many years ago, touring Portland's art galleries on "First Thursdays" would have been unimaginable. For starters, Portland didn't have any galleries.

How did Oregon come to be such an art-friendly place?

"The Art Makers" presents a story rich with colorful characters and many wonderful paintings. Meet some of the artists, past and present, who've influenced the state's art scene, including:

Harry Wentz -- Hired to the new Portland Art Museum School in 1910, Wentz encouraged countless students to paint traditional subjects with fresh, modernistic techniques.

C.S. Price -- This onetime illustrator of Western magazines evolved his painting into uncharted expressionist and abstract territory. He inspired others to follow before passing away in 1950.

Louis Bunce -- His bold mural for the Portland Airport opened a hornet's nest of public opinion. But Oregonians acknowledged that modern art had "arrived," and Bunce became a celebrity.

"The Art Makers" features interviews with painters Lucinda Parker, George Johanson, Jack McLarty and the late Mike Russo. Dozens of archival photos and nearly 150 older paintings help tell their stories. And it all leads up to the arts in present-day Oregon, which surely owe much of their vitality to those "oldtimers" and the art they made.

Everybody's Art – An Oregon Art Beat Special - Premieres May 22 at 8pm

Last modified on May 7, 2008 09:48 AM

What do you think about public art? From Portlandia in Portland, bronze sculptures in Joseph, whale bones in Newport, and art on our college campuses, we're surrounded by art in public places. We walk or drive past it, love it or ignore it -- but did you know that we all own thousands of pieces of art? Our tax dollars have commissioned them, and each one impacts the visual landscape of Oregon.

But how do we think about this public art, and do we value it? And what does it add to our communities, our culture and our state? "Everybody's Art," a half-hour Oregon Art Beat special, takes a look at the topic, from artists who work with committees to create public art, to communities impacted by installing art, as well as a look back at the history of our "Percent for Art" legislation from the late 1970s. "Everybody's Art" is airing on the stations of Oregon Public Broadcasting on Thursday, May 22 at 8pm (and Sunday, May 25 at 2am and 6pm).

Frank Boyden is an internationally known ceramic artist and sculptor. Brad Rude is two decades younger, with years of experience in foundry work and metal sculpture. The two are collaborating on a commission for TriMet, which provides public transportation to the Portland metro area. Their groundbreaking interactive installation, designed for five towns served by TriMet's new suburban rail line, is the first of its kind in the nation. Because they're creating art paid for with public funds, a committee is involved in every step of their creative process. During "Everybody's Art," an Oregon Art Beat special, we follow Frank and Brad from their initial meetings through design and construction through the final approval of their work. Can innovative art come from a process that involves so much committee input? The two artists think so, and we follow them from their studios, to committee meetings, and back again as they work towards their delivery deadline.

"Everybody's Art" also takes a look at public art around the state, paid for with public funds and privately sponsored, and explores the role of art in building community in urban and rural settings.

"Everybody's Art" visits the eastern Oregon town of Vale where ranchers drive pickup trucks past huge, historic murals on downtown buildings to explore the question of whether public art has helped stimulate a projected economic boom for this tiny community.

We take a tour of Portland's public-art collection with Eloise Damrosch, executive director of Portland's Regional Arts and Cultural Council (RACC), and artist Victor Maldonado, as they discuss the impact of public art in a city, as well as the challenges of maintaining a public art collection.

We explore the 30-year history of Oregon's Percent for Art legislation and examine the impact it's had on the state's art collection and artists in the state, as well as hear from people who think that no government money should be spent to subsidize art.

At the Oregon Art Beat Web site, viewers are encouraged to get involved in the public art process. Log on to see Frank and Brad's installation and provide feedback. Also learn how to join a committee, attend a neighborhood meeting and critique a public art proposal.

Video clips of the stories featured on "Everybody's Art," as well as archived Art Beat stories, can be viewed online immediately following the broadcast at www.opb.org/artbeat/.

It's an engaging look at something that affects all of us, every day. After all, in Oregon, public art is "Everybody's Art."

Oregon Experience: "Lola G. Baldwin" Premieres May 15

Last modified on May 5, 2008 11:25 AM

On April 1, 1908 Lola Greene Baldwin was sworn in to perform police service for the city of Portland and became the nation's first policewoman. The next installment in Oregon Public Broadcasting's Oregon Experience series examines the life and work of Detective Baldwin who made it her mission to crusade for the moral and physical welfare of young, single working girls and prevent them from being lured into lives of prostitution and crime. Tune in to the stations of OPB on Thursday, May 15 at 9pm.

Baldwin was born in Elmyra, New York in 1860. She dropped out of high school to support herself and two sisters when her father died unexpectedly. She would go on to earn a teaching certificate and taught school in Nebraska where she met and married dry goods merchant LeGrand Baldwin. After the birth of her two sons, Lola got involved in social work, volunteering at homes for unwed mothers and prisoner's aid societies.

In 1904, the Baldwin family moved to Portland where Lola was appointed supervisor of the local chapter of the Traveler's Aid Society organized to help protect young women coming to Portland in search of jobs during the 1905 Exposition.

During the fair, Baldwin reported helping more than 1,600 young women find safe lodging and employment. She was so successful she later convinced Portland's City Council to fund her position under the police department's jurisdiction. That required a civil service exam, and when she passed, Lola Baldwin was sworn in as the nation's first municipally paid policewoman.

Other cities around the country noticed Portland's grand experiment with women police. Baldwin was instrumental in helping Tacoma, Seattle and other cities set up their own Women's Protective Divisions. After 14 years of service she retired in 1922 but continued to lobby fiercely for equal benefits for women police. Lola Greene Baldwin died in 1957 at the age of 97. She pioneered a new profession for female cops and her legacy lives on in the thousands of women who followed in her footsteps.

Oregon Public Broadcasting Receives 16 Emmy Nominations

Last modified on April 22, 2008 09:35 AM

Oregon Public Broadcasting has been nominated for 16 Northwest Regional Emmy Awards by the Northwest Chapter of the National Academy of Televison Arts and Sciences.

Oregon Experience received 11 nominations. Oregon Field Guide was nominated in four categories. Oregon Art Beat also received a nomination. Winners will be announced at the June 7 banquet in Seattle. The Northwest Chapter serves television professionals in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska and Montana.

OPB’s nominations:

Arts/Entertainment - Program Special
OPB-TV, "Oregon Art Beat Episode # 901"; Jessica Martin, executive producer

Historic/Cultural - Program/Special
OPB-TV, "Beervana"; Beth Harrington, Producer/Director/Writer

Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: The Beach Bill"; Nadine Jelsing, producer/writer; Bruce Barrow, editor

Informational/Instructional - Program/Special
Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Field Guide"; Steve Amen, executive producer

Informational/Instructional - Feature/Segment
"Oregon Field Guide: Quagga Invasion"; Ed Jahn, producer; Todd Sonflieth, videographer; Nick Fisher, videographer

Human Interest - Program Feature/Segment
OPB - "Oregon Field Guide: Toad Crossing"; Vince Patton, producer

Documentary - Cultural/Historical
Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: Oregon at War"; Eric Cain, producer/writer; Lisa Suinn Kallem, editor

Promotion - Program - Campaign
Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon at War"; Kami Horton, producer

Individual Achievement - Director
Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Canyoneering"; Ed Jahn, director

Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: Oregon at War"; Eric Cain, director

Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: Beatrice Morrow Cannady"; Nadine Jelsing, director

Writer - Program
Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: Bill Bowerman" Nadine Jelsing, writer

Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: The Braceros"; Eric Cain, writer

Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: Oregon at War"; Eric Cain, writer

Editor - Program
Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: William Gladstone Steel"; Lisa Suinn Kallem, editor

Oregon Public Broadcasting, "Oregon Experience: Oregon at War"; Lisa Suinn Kallem, editor

The Silent Invasion: OPB Special Kicks Off Statewide Campaign to Tackle the Threat of Invasive Species

Last modified on April 8, 2008 09:03 AM

The Silent Invasion: An Oregon Field Guide special presentation premieres April 22, 2008 at 8pm.

Something troubling is taking place in Oregon. Strange exotic plants and animals are showing up in places where they don't belong. Every day, more arrive. They come by airplane, by boats, by trucks, in handbags and suitcases. They come from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and all corners of the globe.

"Ecosystems are completely changing, things that we grew up with are no longer. They're disappearing off the landscape and being replaced by things that are coming in from other countries ... and very quietly, so we don't notice it."-- Jim Gores, Oregon Fish and Wildlife

Feral pigs, bullfrogs, starlings and nutria driving out Oregon's native wildlife. English ivy smothering Forest Park. Purple loosestrife taking over Oak's Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Spartina eating away at the oyster industry of Willapa Bay in Washington. The Silent Invasion: An Oregon Field Guide Special takes a look at the invaders lurking across our borders and showing up around our state. It introduces the people fighting to protect Oregon and our way of life. Tune in on Earth Day, April 22 at 8pm on the stations of Oregon Public Broadcasting to learn more about this problem and what can be done to stop the invasion.

"The Silent Invasion is a highly unusual undertaking for OPB. We've done many documentaries about environmental problems but nothing like this," said Jeff Douglas, executive vice president and station manager. "The usual sides in environmental stories don't appear. Invasive species are an equal-opportunity threat to our environment and our economy … to the Oregon we all love. Ranchers know it. Birders know it. It's not an issue that divides liberals from conservatives or urban versus rural. We all care about Oregon and we can all make a difference."

The documentary illustrates how invasive species are changing our environment. One story takes viewers to the Oregon/Idaho border where yellow star thistle is wreaking havoc on the grasslands. A family ranch in Hells Canyon, passed down through the decades, has been so decimated by the weed the ranch may be worthless to the next generation.

And solutions to invasive species aren't easy to come by. In one case an exotic fish was brought in to eradicate an invasive weed taking over Devils Lake near Lincoln City. The new fish destroyed the weed, then began devouring native plants as well, upsetting the food chain and spurring a dangerous bacterial growth.

And then there's the quagga mussel. Brought to the Great Lakes in the ballast water of a ship from the Caspian Sea in the '80s, they multiplied out of control, causing an economic and environmental catastrophe. Then, in 2007, quaggas hitched a ride on an unwashed boat to Lake Mead some 2,000 miles away. Now fish hatcheries have been shut down and Hoover Dam itself is threatened as quaggas clog water intakes and turbines. Could Oregon be invaded next? Every boat entering Oregon waters is a potential risk to everything from Oregon's dams to wild salmon.

Narrated by SOLV's Jack McGowan, The Silent Invasion documents the economic consequences to the social and environmental costs of invasive species. But it also highlights success stories and points viewers toward action they can take.

STOP THE INVASION -- An unprecedented statewide campaign to protect Oregon from invasive species

"The broadcast of The Silent Invasion on April 22 is not the end of the OPB program -- it's the beginning of a campaign to Stop The Invasion," said Douglas. "It's a campaign that involves OPB's partners -- SOLV, The Nature Conservancy, Oregon Invasive Species Council, the City of Portland, Portland State University, Oregon Sea Grant, Oregon State University and -- most of all – our citizens."

"This campaign truly represents the highest level of collaboration amongst government, nonprofit and private entities in Oregon," said Governor Kulongoski. "This is an excellent example of what can happen when people work together to leverage resources to make a difference to Oregon's native fish and wildlife resources, economy, and quality of life."

Volunteers take action
Following the broadcast of the silent Invasion, SOLV and OPB will kick off a massive statewide volunteer effort to remove invasive species and restore Oregon's native environment. Learn how you can join any of the hundreds of invasive species weed eradications or native landscape restorations by searching the calendar of events at opb.org/silentinvasion.

A Web site to help protect Oregon from invasive species

The Silent Invasion Web site is the place to go to find out how you can take action in your community or right in your own backyard. The Invasive Species Hot Line is a tool designed to help Oregonians report invasive species outbreaks. The "GardenSmart Oregon" guide, developed in association with The Nature Conservancy, Portland BES, Oregon Sea Grant and the Oregon Association of Nurseries, highlights which plants are most likely to cause problems in yards along with several suggested alternative plants that are unlikely to escape into the natural environment. Visit the OPB Web site to find out how to download or order a hard copy of the GardenSmart guide.

Join in the fight
"We want the end of the series to mark the beginning of the ongoing effort to detect, slow down or even prevent future invasions," said OPB's Douglas.

Log on to opb.org/silentinvasion to find out how to become involved. And be sure to watch The Silent Invasion: An Oregon Field Guide Special on Earth Day, Thursday, April 22 at 8pm. The program rebroadcasts on Thursday, April 24 at 2am and 8pm and Sunday, April 27 at 2am and 6pm.

Video Archive
Want to know more about some of the plants, animals and insects threatening the state's most pristine environments? Throughout the year, Field Guide is airing episodes on invasive species, documenting the destruction they're causing our environment. A video archive of these episodes is available to stream anytime at opb.org/silentinvasion.

Financial Aid For College 2008: A Live Call-In Program Airs February 27 on OPB

Last modified on February 25, 2008 03:24 PM

For parents, teachers and the college-bound, Oregon Public Broadcasting presents Financial Aid for College, a live, half-hour special airing Wednesday, February 27 at 9pm.

Every year, the cost of college tuition goes up. New students must be ever more resourceful in finding ways to pay for their education. Financial Aid for College is designed to help families of all economic backgrounds and students of all ages. Hosted by OPB's Steve Amen, the program features a panel of financial aid experts who provide crucial loan and grant information, and offer advice on the college application process. This year's experts are Kathy Goff, senior financial aid coordinator at Portland State University and Dan Preston, dean of Enrollment Services at Linfield College.

New for 2008 is the Oregon Opportunity Grant's Shared Responsibility Model which allows more Oregonians to receive access to higher education, including middle-income families through a structure that calculates funding available from the federal government and family resources when determining aid available to pay for college. If all of the available resources do not add up to enough to cover the cost, the state will help fill the gap through the Oregon Opportunity Grant.

Viewers can call financial aid counselors toll-free during the broadcast and have their questions answered in English or Spanish.

Financial Aid for College is a cooperative project of the Oregon Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, Oregon Student Assistance Commission (OSAC) and Oregon Public Broadcasting.

OPB Launches Production of Native American Multi-Media Documentary

Last modified on December 19, 2007 01:32 PM

Oregon Public Broadcasting in association with Painted Sky proudly announces a new documentary currently in production, For the Generations: Native American Story and Performance.

Part performance-based, part unblinking slice-of-life, the documentary will air in Spring 2009 and profile the behind-the-scenes stories of the artists and the endeavor by Painted Sky to bring together the all-star cast to one stage. The trials, obstacles, triumphs and foibles of this effort will be captured as it happens -- weaving a narrative through the performances that will lend grit and personality to the beautiful artistry showcased.

Artists set to be profiled in the documentary include pop-diva, "Urban Indian," Jana; soulful R&B crooner Jaynez, hip-hop poetess Wayquay, Painted Sky's own Northstar dancers and a host of others. "These remarkable performers have the uncanny ability to transcend genres," said OPB’s Sean Hutchinson, producer of the documentary. "Though they all weave their tribal heritage in and out of their music and dance, their performances have appeal that extends beyond what might be too easily classified as ‘Native American' music."

"Thanks to OPB and the other sponsors for providing an opportunity for a national audience to experience Native music, while getting a glimpse of the life and times of our artists," said Arlie Neskahi, co-president of Painted Sky Incorporated, Navajo Nation.

A grant from the Spirit Mountain Community fund, in part, has made the documentary possible. "As a tribal foundation, it is an honor to partner with Painted Sky and other funders to promote Native American arts and culture. As a terminated tribe, we know the value of honoring our culture to perpetuate our tribal history," said Fund Director Shelley Hanson. Fund-raising efforts continue in hopes of bringing all the artists together for a benefit performance in 2008.

Much of the focus of the documentary will be centered on the outreach these performers do and their work with native youth. "A person like Jana really shines a light on a pathway to success and presents a model for kids by which they might become an artist or doctor or astronaut -- whatever they can conceive for themselves -- and not be daunted by some bleak odds," Hutchinson said.

The For the Generations Web site, which will be launched at a later date, will offer a social networking component to provide a forum for collaboration, appreciation and growth of cotemporary Native American music and centuries of heritage. With so much of the Native tradition finding its basis in non-textual media, emergent Internet technologies provide a unique opportunity for archiving history, building community and leveraging the future by engaging youth in a safe and enriching online environment.

Additional support is provided by: University of Oregon; Portland State University's Native American and Student and Community Center; Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission; Native American Youth & Family Center; Native American Music Awards and the American Indian College Fund. In addition, The City of Portland (Tom Potter) and The State of Oregon (Kulongoski) have endorsed the project.

Oregon Experience: "The Beach Bill" Premieres November 12

Last modified on November 1, 2007 12:05 PM

In 1967 Governor Tom McCall signed the Beach Bill with great fanfare, granting the public recreational access to the dry sands of Oregon's beaches. The next episode in the Oregon Experience series, "The Beach Bill," looks at this landmark legislation and how it set the stage for other breakthrough environmental legislation. Tune in to the stations of Oregon Public Broadcasting on Monday, November 12 at 9pm.

The fight to protect Oregon's beaches from private development and "No Trespassing" signs began around 1913 when Governor Oswald West designated Oregon’s tidelands -- the wet sand portion of the beach -- as a public highway.

But in the 1960s, private developers along the coast began challenging the law saying that, in fact, the dry sand portion of the beach belonged to the upland owners. And, therefore, they could do whatever they wanted with the land -- including putting up barricades to keep the public off their portion of the beach.

What ensued was a fight to save Oregon's beaches for public recreational use -- all the way to the vegetation line. The battle erupted into the hottest issue of the 1967 legislative session.

Using archival footage of Governor Tom McCall, State Treasurer Bob Straub and many others, this documentary illuminates the events and issues that led to the Beach Bill, and tells the stories of people who worked for its passage.

It is a story of conviction, passion and the vision to save the beaches of Oregon for future generations.

Oregon Experience: "Beervana" Premieres November 5

Last modified on October 23, 2007 01:19 PM

Beer brewing has a long, colorful history in Oregon. Today, Portland is known as the beer capital of the world.

Oregonians have long been enthusiastic about their beer. In 1852, beer came to the Northwest when Henry Saxer opened the Liberty Brewery at the corner of First and Davis in downtown Portland. Many came in Saxer's wake -- most notably fellow German immigrant, Henry Weinhard -- to quench the thirsts of loggers, miners, fishermen and farmers who would build the region. The next installment of Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Oregon Experience series looks at the history of beer brewing in the state and at the vibrant craft beer industry that exists today. Tune in to the stations of OPB on Monday, November 5 at 9pm to find out about how the adventurous tastes of Oregonians inspired a micro-brewing movement.

It's the craft beer of Oregon -- made locally, recognized worldwide -- that contributes significantly to the state’s economy and fuels a vibrant social culture in the form of numerous brew pubs. With its clean water, hops and barley production, Oregon is fertile ground for the beer industry. And with a population willing to try a range of styles and categories of beer, it’s no wonder that Portland, with more breweries than anywhere -- including Germany -- is now considered the beer capital of the world. With ingenuity and determination, the industry survived the temperance movement and prohibition, and now pumps over $2 billion into the state’s economy.

This documentary tells the story of this industry through compelling and amusing anecdotes from the fascinating characters of the Oregon beer community.

About Oregon Experience
Oregon Experience is an exciting new history series on OPB TV that brings to life fascinating stories that help us understand who we are and that reinforce our shared identity as Oregonians. The series, co-produced by the Oregon Historical Society and OPB, takes advantage of the extensive film, video and stills from the archives of OHS and OPB, and draws upon the expertise of OHS researchers and historians. Each half-hour show features captivating characters -- both familiar and forgotten -- who have played key roles in building our state into the unique place we call home. Funding for Oregon Experience is provided in part by Ann & Bill Swindells Charitable Trust, James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation and Oregon Cultural Trust.

OPB Premieres Oregon Experience: "Oregon at War" in September

Last modified on September 13, 2007 10:43 AM

World War II changed the face of Oregon.

The war's onset found Oregonians still reeling from the Great Depression. But four years later, the state emerged from the conflict with a thriving economy and a fast-growing urban sector. Oregon had evolved very quickly, and there'd be no turning back.

Tens of thousands of young Oregon men -- many of whom had never before strayed far from hometowns -- had now traveled the globe. They had seen a wider world and, in many cases, sights too horrific to describe.

Countless Oregon women had worked throughout the war at jobs once off-limits to their gender. The state now had thousands of new African-American residents. And for the first time, Hispanic workers dominated the agricultural labor force.

This special Oregon Experience: "Oregon at War," airing Thursday, September 27 at 9pm on the stations of Oregon Public Broadcasting, explores what happened during those war years through the stories of 17 Oregonians who remember them. Some of these people served in the military: an Air Force pilot from Baker City who was shot down over China; a logger from Scotts Mills who served as a medic in the bloody battles for New Guinea; a crop-science major from OSU who manned a landing craft in the invasion of Normandy; and twin brothers from Portland who both fought in the Battle of the Bulge and were both captured by the Germans.

On the home front, we meet two Portland-born Oregonians whose families were forced to leave their homes, sell their belongings and live confined behind barbed wire; a Forest Service ranger who responded to the Japanese balloon-bomb killings; a buckaroo who broke wild horses for the U.S. Army Cavalry; a woman who came to Oregon for the wartime work -- and for the right to sit wherever she wanted on the bus; and another woman who, as a teenage girl in a town of young military men, jitterbugged her way through the war.

At the Oregon at War Web site, other video stories are posted and people can share their World War II experiences and explore submissions from Oregon and around the country.

OPB's "Oregon Art Beat" Receives Governor's Arts Award

Last modified on July 19, 2007 08:26 AM

Oregon Art Beat, Oregon Public Broadcasting's Emmy-award winning weekly television series profiling local artists, is one of eight recipients of this year's Oregon Arts Commission Governor's Arts Awards.

Jessica Martin, executive producer and KC Cowan, host, accepted the award on behalf of OPB at last night's ceremony in Salem.

"It is a tremendous honor to be among this year's esteemed recipients for this prestigious recognition," said Martin, executive producer of Oregon Art Beat. Since Spring 2000, Art Beat has produced over 600 segments profiling hundreds of artists, musicians and artisans from Oregon and southern Washington.

"The purpose of our show is to introduce people to the arts and cultural events happening in the community," said Martin. "We know we've accomplished our mission if, after watching the show, viewers get involved."

The summer re-broadcast of audience favorites, determined by vote, show how enthusiastically involved Art Beat viewers are. Top vote getters include Leroy Setziol, Lillian Pitt, Pat Courtney Gold and Henk Pander (previous Governor's Arts Award recipients), as well as Polly's Cake's, the Carousel Museum in Hood River, Stolen Sweets and Lucinda Parker.

In addition to the weekly television series, Oregon Art Beat developed, with funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Beat at School, an online collection of over 100 lesson plans with video clips and related resources designed for K-12 classroom use. "We believe that the arts are an important part of learning and expressing what you think," said Martin. "Being a part of Oregon Art Beat is its own reward if it leads to more people getting involved in the cultural life of their community."

"This award, along with Governor Kulongoski's advocacy for greater financial support for Oregon's cultural community, further illustrate the state's affirmation of the important role the arts play in the vibrancy of our state," said OPB President Steve Bass. "We have profound gratitude for this recognition and support."

Legislative Funding for Oregon Public Broadcasting Will Assure Digital Television Service for Rural Oregon

Last modified on June 27, 2007 11:22 AM

Last-minute bills include $3 million for OPB

Oregon Public Broadcasting is one step closer to installing digital transmission equipment in rural Oregon after the State Legislature today approved $3 million in capital funding in last-minute budget bills.

These new transmission facilities will ensure the continuation of OPB programming for more than 200,000 residents outside the major Portland metropolitan area, along with continuation of an emergency alert broadcast system that reaches throughout the state.

Under a federal government mandate OPB must turn off all full-power analog transmitters on February 17, 2009. At that time, the majority of those who rely on over-the-air broadcast television will need to either acquire a digital converter box in order to receive digital signals on analog television sets or purchase a digital television set. Find out more about watching digital broadcasts

Oregonians in many parts of the state -- particularly the coast, the Gorge, eastern and central Oregon -- rely on an extensive network of analog translators to receive public television service. These translators operate only in the analog system, requiring significant digital upgrades in order to maintain service after February 17, 2009.

"Many of the thousands of Oregonians who live in rural areas consider OPB to be a lifeline service, bringing them news and information, educational programming for children, and providing a connection to the rest of the state. The leadership of Governor Kulongoski and members of the legislature ensures that public broadcasting service in rural Oregon will be available for years to come," said OPB President Steve Bass.

Conversion of the network of analog translators will provide viewers in rural areas the same level of service currently enjoyed in Oregon's more urban areas. OPB currently offers four programming services on its digital transmission network, including high-definition programs, OPB analog simulcast (scheduled to begin early July), OPB Create and the Oregon Channel (a programming service offered in partnership with Legislative Media and the Oregon University System that provides legislative coverage and other public affairs programming).

Bass said substantial credit for this success goes to Governor Ted Kulongoski, who included funding for OPB in his recommended budget, as well as legislative leaders including Senator Betsy Johnson; Representative Mary Nolan, House co-chair of the Joint Ways and Means Committee; Senate President Peter Courtney; House Speaker Jeff Merkley; and Senator Kurt Schrader, Senate co-chair of the Joint Ways and Means Committee.

Bass said appreciation also goes to hundreds of Oregonians who championed the cause by writing letters, opinion pieces and columns in support of the legislative funding.

OPB will work in partnership with Southern Oregon Public Television to convert all statewide analog television translators to digital starting this summer. The legislative funding did not include operating funds to run the translators network.

Oregon Public Broadcasting to Distribute Islam vs. Islamists: Voices from the Muslim Center

Last modified on May 23, 2007 01:09 PM

Oregon Public Broadcasting today announced that it will distribute Islam vs. Islamists: Voices from the Muslim Center to public television stations under an agreement reached between The Corporation for Public Broadcasting and Oregon Public Broadcasting.

"Islam vs. Islamists addresses very difficult issues," said Steve Bass, president and CEO of Oregon Public Broadcasting. "We are pleased to facilitate a dialogue on one of the central issues in the world today in conjunction with the broadcast."

"As stewards of the investment in public broadcasting, this fulfills our responsibility to the taxpayer," said Patricia Harrison, president and CEO of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

OPB Hires New Producers

Last modified on April 4, 2007 01:06 PM

Oregon Public Broadcasting has hired two new producers, Vince Patton and Katrina Sarson, to work on local productions including Oregon Field Guide, Oregon Art Beat and Oregon Experience.

For the past six years, Patton has been the environmental reporter for KGW TV. His work has been honored with four regional Emmys and one of his documentary reports won first place in the nation from the Society of Environmental Journalists. Patton will begin working with OPB on April 16.

Katrina Sarson comes to OPB after about 10 years as an Emmy-award winning freelance producer, primarily working on programs for HGTV and the Food Network. But she has some PBS roots as well, producing the Parenting Works! series for KQED. She has a keen interest in childhood education and a master's degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Sarson's first day at OPB will be April 10.

OPB Names Martin Executive Producer of Oregon Art Beat

Last modified on March 20, 2007 02:50 PM

Oregon Public Broadcasting has named Jessica Martin executive producer of Oregon Art Beat. Martin has served as a writer and producer for OPB since joining the organization in 1987.

Her extensive repertoire includes four years covering outdoor subjects for Oregon Field Guide and producing stories from accordion players to violinists for Oregon Art Beat. She also produced the historical documentary Rose City Remembered for which she won a regional Emmy.

Martin's Emmy-nominated Growing Up And Growing Old: Caring For Our Parents evolved into The Way Home documentary, which won a Freddy at the International Health and Medical Media Awards. She also received the Helen Hayes Award for best all-around production.

Prior to joining OPB she worked in radio (KWJJ/KJIB), and commercial television (KOIN TV, Portland's CBS affiliate). She is a graduate of the University of Oregon in film, broadcasting and writing.

OPB Launches Expanded News Web Site

Last modified on March 12, 2007 03:24 PM

Oregon Public Broadcasting, one of the most respected sources of news, has just enhanced its coverage with the launch of an expanded news Web site at opbnews.org.

"OPB's expanded news site is the first of many steps designed to elevate our attention and commitment to news on the Web," said Morgan Holm, vice president of News & Public Affairs. "It offers more local and regional news from a wider variety of sources, along with an online discussion forum."

"News and information programs on radio and television have large and loyal audiences on OPB. Many more OPB listeners and viewers now want access to news and information on their schedule and wherever they may be," said Steve Bass, president and CEO. "Putting more of OPB's respected and trusted program content onto the Web allows us to provide a public service that goes well beyond the geographic boundaries of television and radio signals, as well as the time limitations of radio and television program schedules."

Visitors to opbnews.org can get the latest local, state, national and international news, and traffic reports. In addition, a range of streamed and downloadable programming is available, including a library of episodes of FRONTLINE. In addition, podcasts or audio downloads of many of OPB's most popular radio programming is available, including a daily online-only program featuring news and information from around Oregon, southwest Washington and the region.

Another new feature is the "Town Square" online discussion forum, where Web users can post comments and engage in civil discourse about major issues impacting the Northwest. "Whether the conversation is taking place in Washington, D.C., in our state and local governments, or with your next-door neighbor, people are seeking ways to constructively address and move forward on issues as diverse as the damming of Celilo Falls, the Beacon Bill, school funding and global warming, to name a few," said Lynne Pollard, vice president of Interactive Web. " 'With Town Square,' our goal is to create an online community dedicated to exploring the challenges we face and the options and opportunities for change."

The site will continue to evolve, Holm explained, adding that a news staff person will be assigned to file material primarily for the online news page. "We anticipate more original reporting, photography and in-depth news coverage unique to opbnews.org and complementary to our broadcast news efforts," he said.

OPB's Oregon Experience Profiles William Steel, the "Father of Crater Lake"

Last modified on February 13, 2007 12:08 PM

William Gladstone Steel was one of Oregon's most active mountaineers and advocates for national parks and forest conservation in the Pacific Northwest. He is best known as the father of Crater Lake National Park and the founder of the Mazamas, the West Coast's oldest continual mountaineering club. The next episode of Oregon Experience examines the life of this complex and sometimes controversial man. Tune in to the stations of Oregon Public Broadcasting on Monday, February 19 at 9pm.

He was born in 1854 in Ohio, where his parents ran an underground railroad stop. They eventually moved to Kansas and then to Portland. It was in Kansas that Steel claims to have first read about Crater Lake in a newspaper used to wrap his lunch. He vowed then to see it, and 15 years later finally did.

So awestruck by what he saw, he made it his life's mission to preserve the lake as a national park. He was dedicated, passionate and annoying. After 17 years of hard work, Steel's efforts paid off. On May 22, 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt signed the bill making Crater Lake a national park. But once the park was established, Steel felt it had to be developed in order for people to enjoy it. He pushed for better roads, secured financing for a grand lodge and even wanted to build a bridge to Wizard Island in Crater Lake.

Despite his ideas for development, he was also a dedicated conservationist. Steel was one of the original founders of the Mazamas. In 1894 an advertisement was placed in local papers inviting interested, serious mountaineers to join the charter climb. More than 300 people encamped on the flanks of Mt. Hood on July 18. By 8am the next day, the first climbing party reached the summit, followed by the rest of the 193 men and women who were able to summit that day.

William Gladstone Steel was complex and controversial and an important force for preserving the Cascade Range as we know it today.

About Oregon Experience
Oregon Experience is an exciting new history series on OPB TV that brings to life fascinating stories that help us understand who we are and that reinforce our shared identity as Oregonians. The series, co-produced by the Oregon Historical Society and Oregon Public Broadcasting, takes advantage of the extensive film, video and stills from the archives of OHS and OPB, and draws upon the expertise of OHS researchers and historians. Each half-hour show features captivating characters -- both familiar and forgotten -- who have played key roles in building our state into the unique place we call home.

Funding for Oregon Experience is provided in part by Ann & Bill Swindells Charitable Trust, James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, Robert C. and Nani S. Warren Foundation and Oregon Cultural Trust.

OPB's "Meth: The Oregon Front" Honored at NETA 2007

Last modified on February 1, 2007 09:24 AM

The National Educational Telecommunications Association (NETA) honored 23 public television licensees with awards last Friday in Norfolk, VA. Oregon Public Broadcasting's Meth: The Oregon Front was named the best outreach campaign based on a national project. The judges praised its well-constructed organization, its clear, forceful presentation, and its creative innovation, calling it a model for other stations to emulate. The program was developed as a local follow-up to FRONTLINE: The Meth Epidemic which was produced in partnership with OPB, The Oregonian and FRONTLINE.

PBS president Paula Kerger emceed the ceremony. Vermont Public Television's president and NETA board chair John King presented trophies to 38 projects in the areas of program production, promotion, outreach and instructional media.

The NETA Awards are annual recognition of member-produced excellence in public broadcasting, a tradition established 40 years ago by the pioneering Southern Educational Communications Association.

NETA is a professional association founded in 1997 to serve public television licensees and affiliated educational organizations. The organization has members in 44 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. NETA is headquartered in Columbia, SC.

See www.netaonline.org/ for additional information on NETA.

OPB Program Updates Progress on Oregon's Meth Problems

Last modified on January 17, 2007 10:11 AM

A year ago, Frontline: The Meth Epidemic, produced in partnership by OPB, Frontline and The Oregonian, explored the growing methamphetamine epidemic in Oregon and across the nation. This award-winning documentary and the OPB panel discussion that followed it, Meth: The Oregon Front, sprung from a series by The Oregonian's Steve Suo.

A lot has changed in the last year. Suo has continued to break stories on the changing international meth trade. New laws approved by Congress and the Oregon Legislature have had substantial impacts on the purity and price of meth on the street. But the drug remains readily available and devastating to those who become addicted to it.

On Tuesday, January 23 at 9pm OPB will rebroadcast Frontline: The Meth Epidemic. Immediately following at 10pm, OPB will update its local exploration of what methamphetamine has done to Oregon in Meth: The Oregon Front 2007. Three of the experts featured in the original Frontline program will update their unique perspectives on meth.

Joining OPB's Colin Fogarty for the discussion are: The Oregonian's Steve Suo who will discuss how new laws are hampering meth cartels in Mexico, but may allow Chinese gangs to fill the gap; Rob Bovett of the Oregon Narcotics Enforcement Association will describe how Oregon has seen the steepest decline in meth lab seizures, due in part to the strictest controls on the meth precursor, pseudoephedrine; and Rita Sullivan, therapist and administrator at OnTrack in Medford, will speak about how that progress hasn't ended the epidemic.

More information about the meth problem in Oregon including resources, links to articles, video streaming of Meth: The Oregon Front 2007 and a special radio feature by Colin Fogarty on Oregon Considered Tuesday, January 23 at 4:30pm will be available online at opb.org/meth/ after the programs air.

Oregon Public Broadcasting Announces Debut of the Oregon Channel Providing Coverage of the Legislative Session

Last modified on January 3, 2007 01:32 PM

Now that the elections are over, here's your chance to see your elected officials at work. Gavel-to-gavel television coverage of the Oregon Legislature is set to hit the airwaves on January 8. A pilot project conducted by Oregon Public Broadcasting, the Oregon Legislature and Southern Oregon Public Television will test the concept of a 24/7 "Oregon Channel" to broaden public access to state government and public affairs events.

Additional programming will come from the Oregon University System and the Oregon Public Affairs Network as well as OPB's own productions.

"It is important that OPB, the most-trusted media resource in the state, step forward with this service that gives citizens more insight into the issues impacting us all," said Steve Bass, president and CEO of OPB. "This new channel is a perfect example of OPB striving to fulfill our mission of giving voice to the community and connecting all Oregonians. "

"For the first time ever, Oregonians will have a television channel dedicated solely to covering the legislature and state government. This new Oregon Channel will be a good resource for Oregonians to learn more about their government," said Senate President Peter Courtney (D-Salem/Gervais/Woodburn).

"The Oregon Channel is one of the only practical means for many Oregonians to actually see what goes on in Salem," said Karen Minnis (R-Wood Village). "The channel is the next step in Oregon's history of open government and it will make us more accessible to those we serve."

The Oregon Channel pilot will launch on January 8, 2007, the Opening Day of the next legislative session. The channel will include unedited coverage of legislative floor sessions, committee hearings, Capitol news conferences, and other state government and public affairs events. The pilot project will conclude at the end of the legislative session, at which point the channel will be evaluated to determine the feasibility of establishing a permanent Oregon Channel statewide. Similar channels have been successfully launched in other states and the partners are eager to test the concept in Oregon.

The Oregon Channel will be broadcast on digital television channels available in most of the state's largest cities served by OPB and SOPTV. Since digital television technology is still in transition, access to the channel during the pilot period will be limited primarily to digital cable subscribers and households equipped with a digital television tuner. Information about how and where to tune in is available on OPB's Oregon Channel Web page or www.oregonchannel.org where visitors can access streaming video feeds of the channel, a program schedule and an online survey that will be used to help evaluate the pilot project.

The pilot project will cost approximately $150,000, and will be funded by the Legislative Administration office. All of the project partners are contributing equipment and staff time for the project.

OPB Co-Production Honored for Journalistic Excellence in Covering Drug and Alcohol Problems

Last modified on November 29, 2006 10:17 AM

FRONTLINE: The Meth Epidemic, a co-production of Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB), The Oregonian and WGBH (Boston), has just received the prestigious Nancy Dickerson Whitehead Award, honoring journalists who have "demonstrated the highest standards of reporting on drug issues." The award was presented to producer Carl Byker at a ceremony in New York City earlier this month.

The hour-long documentary, inspired by a series of articles by award-winning Oregonian reporter Steve Suo, examined the meth crisis in and beyond Oregon. OPB expanded upon this work with a series of programs on OPB TV, OPB Radio and the Internet tracking the impact of meth on individuals, families and communities, and what is being done to combat the problem.

The Nancy Dickerson Whitehead Award was the first in the nation to recognize excellence in reporting on drug and alcohol problems.

"This is a huge honor for this documentary to be acknowledged with such a prestigious award by people who know the human cost of meth addiction," said Steve Bass, president and CEO of Oregon Public Broadcasting. "We're pleased that through this type of reporting we have been able to play a part in bringing awareness to the severity of the problem and helping affect changes in laws that make it harder for meth dealers to obtain this drug. And we began a dialogue in our community that continues today to assist those in trouble because of this terrible drug."

FRONTLINE: The Meth Epidemic will be rebroadcast on OPB TV on January 30 at 9pm.

About the Nancy Dickerson Whitehead Award
During her long and distinguished career as a broadcast journalist, Nancy Dickerson Whitehead reported on many critical social concerns, including the nation's problems with drug and alcohol abuse. Her thoughtful analysis increased public understanding of these complex issues and reflected her own deep commitment to finding more effective answers. As a member of the Board of Directors of Drug Strategies, a nonprofit research institute in Washington, D.C., she worked to develop programs and policies to reduce substance abuse.

These awards honor Nancy Dickerson Whitehead's efforts to improve media coverage of drug issues. The awards are given annually to two journalists, one from print media and one from broadcast (radio or television), who have demonstrated the highest standards of reporting on drug issues.

Oregon Experience Premieres October 23 at 9pm

Last modified on October 24, 2006 04:33 PM

Oregon Experience is an exciting new history series on OPB TV that brings to life fascinating stories that help us understand who we are and that reinforce our shared identity as Oregonians. The series, co-produced by the Oregon Historical Society (OHS) and Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB), takes advantage of the extensive film, video and stills from the archives of OHS and OPB, and draws upon the expertise of OHS researchers and historians. Beginning this month, each half-hour show features captivating characters -- both familiar and forgotten -- who have played key roles in building our state into the unique place we call home.

Premiering Monday, October 23 at 9pm is the story of Abigail Scott Duniway, a plain-talking farmer's wife who was largely responsible for Oregon women having the right to vote since 1912 -- eight years before a constitutional amendment gave suffrage to women throughout the country. On October 30 at 9pm, "Reub Long's Oregon Desert" visits the dry, desolate Fort Rock Valley where for more than a century, settlers have tried -- and most have failed -- to earn a living. But they left behind some fascinating history and wonderful stories. Bill Bowerman, legendary University of Oregon track coach and Nike co-founder, Sam Hill who dared to dream a highway through the Columbia Gorge and others will be featured in upcoming episodes.

Abigail Scott Duniway
She was born in 1834 in Illinois and traveled West across the plains in a covered wagon settling in Lafayette. Abigail married a rancher and soon found herself cooking, sewing and laundering for her family and the hired hands as well. Through a series of accidents and bad luck, her husband lost the farm and was unable to work -- so Abigail became the family breadwinner. They moved to Portland in 1871 and Abigail embraced the fight for women's rights -- even inviting suffragist Susan B. Anthony to visit Oregon. Together they toured the Northwest organizing support for voting rights.

An avid writer, she confronted the injustice and inequality of women in her 20 novels and hundreds of stories, essays and poems, delivered countless public lectures, and founded one of the regions most influential newspapers, The New Northwest, to keep important issues in the public eye.

Oregon Experience unveils the forgotten life of Abigail Scott Duniway with excerpts from her diary and colorful quotes from her lectures. She actively campaigned for national suffrage and equal rights for all women until her death in 1915.

The program will be rebroadcast on Friday, October 27 at 10:30pm and Sunday, October 29 at 1:30pm.

Funding for Oregon Experience is provided in part by Ann & Bill Swindells Charitable Trust, Oregon Cultural Trust and James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation.

OPB's High-Definition TV Crosses the Cascades

Last modified on October 9, 2006 12:50 PM

Digital Television Upgrade Promises New Public Service for Oregon

Oregon Public Broadcasting began transmitting high-definition television programs to viewers in Central Oregon this week with the completion of the installation of a new digital antenna for KOAB-DT/channel 11 in Bend. The new antenna atop Awbrey Butte brings digital television to a rapidly growing Oregon community and completes the upgrade of OPB's five digital transmitters. But the signal offers much more than just a better picture for Central Oregon residents.

OPB's new digital capability also holds the promise of a sophisticated emergency communications network that could serve even the most remote corners of the state.

Unlike the analog signal beamed to a standard television set, digital TV signals can transmit multiple streams of data and pictures simultaneously. While viewers with digital sets watch OPB's regular programming in downtown Bend, for example, crews battling a forest fire in the Cascades could receive real-time satellite imagery and data on the fire on the same broadcast signal.

"OPB's all-digital signal could be the backbone of a state-of-the-art emergency system," said OPB President Steve Bass. "We have the ability to provide police, firefighters and emergency relief crews with the information they need sent directly to cell phones, computers and specialized receivers in the field."

The technology - called "datacasting" - is already in use in some other cities and states. Bass is among those who tested the technology for emergency services last year while still at Nashville Public Television in Tennessee.

"We still have a ways to go here in Oregon," Bass added.

With completion of the installation of the digital antenna in Bend, all of OPB's primary stations now carry the digital signal to the most-populated parts of Oregon. However much of the state is served by smaller "translators" that broadcast in areas where mountains or coastlines block the larger transmitter's signals. These translators have yet to be converted to digital.

A federal government mandate requiring OPB and all other broadcasters nationwide to turn off the analog television system in February 2009 provides a dilemma: Either OPB's network of 41 translators must be converted to digital operation or they must be shut off. The mandate puts viewers in large parts of Oregon - east of the Cascades and along the coast, for example - at risk of losing their television service altogether.

"Those are precisely the parts of Oregon that stand to benefit the most from OPB's digital signal," said Oregon Senator Betsy Johnson, D-Scappoose. "OPB alone has the ability to offer equal access to both urban and rural Oregon with high-quality arts and education programs and to serve emergency responders as well," she said.

Bass estimates the digital translator upgrade will cost $5.5 million. "It's a small price for an exponential increase in possible services all across the state," he said. "As the state's primary operation center for the Emergency Alert and Amber Alert systems, the digital conversion of OPB's translator network will provide unparalleled opportunities to enhance the safety of Oregon's citizens. Just the potential to develop a tsunami alert system on the Oregon coast makes the investment look worthwhile to property owners there," Bass said.

"Through OPB, people throughout the state have equal access to information and educational opportunities," said Oregon Representative Greg Smith, R-Heppner. "OPB now has the potential to make communities around Oregon safer and better prepared."

A State of Oregon appropriation in 2001 and contributions from individuals, foundations and corporations provided the $22 million required to meet the federal requirement to convert OPB's major transmitters. To date, no funding has been secured for the translator upgrades.

Over 1.5 million Oregonians tune in or log on to OPB's television, radio and Internet services every week. OPB has one of the highest per capita membership totals of public broadcasting stations nationwide. OPB already serves as the hub of operations for the state's Emergency Broadcast and Amber Alert system.

OPB Documentary Wins a CINE Golden Eagle Award

Last modified on July 12, 2006 09:53 AM

The Three Rabbis, a film produced by Oregon Public Broadcasting, has just been selected to receive a CINE Golden Eagle Award in the Documentary/People and Places category. The Golden Eagle is a national recognition of excellence in documentary and other informational film and video production. The project automatically becomes a nominee for the CINE Special Jury Award, which is presented to the best film in its category.

The Three Rabbis recounts the story of three devoted and passionate Portland Rabbis (Rabbi Geller, Rabbi Rose and Rabbi Stampfer) who played a pivotal role in the growth and emergence of Portland's Jewish community over the last 50 years. It premiered on OPB TV last October. Jessica Martin, writer and producer of The Three Rabbis, said, "It is a tremendous honor to have worked on this project and for it to be recognized by those in our industry with this prestigious award. It is also exciting that we'll be competing for the Special Jury Award with a number of notable films including Martin Scorsese's film No Direction Home: Bob Dylan.

George Page, Creator and Host of Nature, Succumbs to Cancer

Last modified on June 30, 2006 10:37 AM

George Page, whose rich voice and infectious enthusiasm for the natural world made him one of public television's most popular personalities as on-air host of the weekly series Nature, succumbed to cancer on June 28, in Equinunk, PA. He was 71.

Mr. Page's journalism and broadcasting career spanned more than 50 years, but he was best known as the creator and voice of the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning wildlife and natural history series, produced for PBS by Thirteen/WNET New York. The series debuted in 1982 and will mark its 25th season on the air this coming fall.

Mr. Page introduced and narrated each episode of Nature, until an illness prompted his retirement from television in 1998. He then devoted his time to the completion of a book, "Inside the Animal Mind," which explored the latest research and findings about animal intelligence and self-awareness. The well-received book became the basis of a three-part miniseries of the same name, broadcast on Nature in January of 2000.

During his 26 years at Thirteen/WNET, Mr. Page also served as director of science and natural history programming, and was responsible for such notable series as Travels, The Brain (also a Peabody winner), The Mind, and Medicine at the Crossroads.

OPB Digital Television Comes to Bend Area

Last modified on July 21, 2006 09:07 AM

Installation of Oregon Public Broadcasting's new digital television antenna in Bend will take place in July. Work is scheduled for completion by the end of the month.

During the installation process, service to BendBroadband customers (in Bend, Redmond and Sisters) should not be affected. Crestview cable service, serving Prineville and Madras, may be affected; however La Pine will lose cable and off-air service for this period. Viewers with satellite service will not be affected. And viewers with antenna-only reception in Bend and the immediate area should continue to receive OPB TV via a lower power signal. Those with antenna-only reception in Prineville should be able to receive the OPB TV signal on channel 16. In addition, Sunriver will lose the Chambers Cable signal and the OPB TV off-air signal. Those served by BendBroadband should not lose service.

OPB Radio service will operate on lower power while the installers are working, but OPB Radio service should be relatively unaffected.

A temporary antenna has been providing limited DTV service to the Bend area since last summer. The new antenna installation was scheduled for completion last July but experienced delays due to manufacturing issues and subsequent shortages of materials being diverted to the areas damaged by hurricane Katrina and then winter weather conditions. OPB apologizes for any inconvenience and thanks viewers and listeners for their patience during this time.

An OPB Original Production, Who Will Govern Oregon?, Airs May 6 at 7pm on OPB TV

Last modified on April 21, 2006 03:29 PM

Oregon voters face an important decision this year: Who will govern the state next? Oregon Public Broadcasting presents intimate conversations with each of the six major candidates in the May 16 primary election for governor. Tune in to the stations of OPB TV on May 6 from 7 to 8pm (rebroadcast May 7 at 1pm) and learn more about the candidates' values and what makes them tick.

OPB's Christy George and Colin Fogarty pulled the candidates off the campaign trail for a quiet interlude to bring viewers a fresh glimpse of these men. The three Democrats: incumbent Governor Ted Kulongoski, former State Treasurer Jim Hill and Lane County Commissioner Pete Sorenson; and the three Republicans: State Senator Jason Atkinson, former Oregon Republican Party Chairman Kevin Mannix and former Portland Public School Board Chairman Ron Saxton, answer questions such as "When is it appropriate for a governor to defy a president?" And "What is the most surprising thing about you that most people don't know?"

Tune in to OPB Radio's Oregon Territory on Friday, May 5 from 4:30 to 5pm to hear the candidates answer additional questions.

And after the May 7 broadcast, viewers can log on to opb.org and hear each candidate's full answers to all the questions posed them.

MUSTARD PANCAKES, Produced in Association with OPB, Wins Spring 2006 Parents' Choice Gold Award

Last modified on March 27, 2006 08:52 AM

MUSTARD PANCAKES, the celebrated live-action, public television preschool series produced by Mustard Pancakes Productions Inc in association with Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB), has won a Spring 2006 Parents' Choice Gold Award for Outstanding Television Programming for ages 3-6.

Established in 1978, Parents' Choice is the nation's oldest non-profit guide to quality children's media and toys. The Foundation's purpose is to search out and recommend products that help kids grow - imaginatively, physically, morally and mentally - and that are fun, safe and socially sound. Parents' Choice reviews books, toys, music, television, software, videogames, Web sites and magazines for children and families of all achievements and backgrounds.

Reviewing children's materials since 1978, the Parents' Choice Awards program honors the best material for children: books, toys, music and storytelling, magazines, software, videogames, television and Web sites. Parents' Choice Foundation's panels of educators, scientists, performing artists, librarians, parents - and kids themselves - identify the very best products for children of different ages and backgrounds, and of varied skill and interest levels.

Said Joel Wertman, executive producer of MUSTARD PANCAKES, "As producers of the show and parents ourselves, we are extremely honored to receive the Gold Parents' Choice Award. We appreciate this significant recognition by the Parents' Choice Foundation, an organization we hold in high esteem. Since its establishment, Parents' Choice has been focused on its mandate to identify and promote excellence in children's entertainment. While developing MUSTARD PANCAKES, our objective was to create a series that embraces the whole child - a program that inspires children to discover the world around them and to learn the values that will help them become successful, creative and responsible adults."

Entering its second season, MUSTARD PANCAKES is a public television children's series for 3- to 6-year-olds, featuring the loveable and funny Courtney Campbell - a gifted storyteller, songwriter, guitarist and comedienne known to children for her musical performances and her family of fun-loving puppets. The live action series celebrates the joy of childhood through the power of music, storytelling and appealing characters, and invites viewers into a world where characters support each other's growth and work together to overcome the day-to-day challenges that all children face.

Executive producers of MUSTARD PANCAKES are Joel Wertman and Liza Perel. MUSTARD PANCAKES was created by Joel Wertman and Courtney Campbell with the creative involvement of a number of award-winning veteran public television puppeteers, writers, musical composers and consultants from perennial favorites such as "Caillou," "Dragon Tales," "Sagwa," "Sesame Street," "Seven Little Monsters," "Noddy" and "The Big Comfy Couch."

MUSTARD PANCAKES is produced by Mustard Pancakes Productions Inc. in association with Oregon Public Broadcasting and distributed by American Public Television (APT). The series made its television debut in July 2005.

Oregon Public Broadcasting Receives Two Telly Awards

Last modified on March 7, 2006 12:09 PM

Oregon Public Broadcasting has received the prestigious Silver Telly Award for its documentary The Three Rabbis and a Bronze Telly Award for The Oregon Story: Rethinking the Forests.

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional and cable TV commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. Winners and finalists represent the best work of the most respected advertising agencies, production companies, television stations, cable operators and corporate video departments in the world. With over a quarter-of-a-century history of recognizing creative excellence, the Telly Awards is a widely known and highly respected international competition.

The Three Rabbis, which recounts the story of three devoted and passionate Portland Rabbis who played a pivotal role in the growth and emergence of Portland's Jewish community over the last 50 years, aired on OPB TV last October. Jessica Martin, writer and producer of The Three Rabbis, said, "It is a tremendous honor to have worked on this project and for it to be recognized by those in our industry with one of the most sought-after awards."

Kate McMahon was associate producer on the project and Gloria Feves Hammer, a Portland educator and driving force behind the production, served as coordinating producer.

A prestigious judging panel of over 25 accomplished industry professionals, each a past Winner of a Silver Telly, the top honor, upholds the historical standard of excellence that Telly represents. Judges evaluate entries to recognize distinction in creative work; entries do not compete against each other - rather, entries are judged against a high standard of merit. Less than 10 percent of entries are chosen as Winners of the highest honor, a Silver Telly.

The Oregon Story: Rethinking the Forests is part of The Oregon Story series that explores Oregon's ever-changing social, cultural and economic relationships with the land. The Oregon Story: Rethinking the Forests, which aired on OPB TV last November, ventured outside the usual arguments to find new voices with fresh perspectives on the present forest gridlock in Oregon and presented some different ways to view the problems. Eric Cain produced and directed the documentary.

History Detectives Calling for Story Ideas

Last modified on February 9, 2006 01:57 PM

The fourth season of the popular OPB-produced series History Detectives will begin in June and the detectives are looking for more mysteries to solve.

Combining the latest forensic technology with old-fashioned, pavement-pounding detective work, History Detectives lifts the lid on intriguing artifacts and objects, family legends and local folklore in cities and small towns across America.

Do you have a mystery that fits into the big events of America's history? All you need is an object and a good story around it! To submit your story, go to www.pbs.org/historydetectives, call 503-244-9900 ext. 2118 or write to History Detectives, c/o Oregon Public Broadcasting, 7140 SW Macadam Ave., Portland, OR 97219.

OPB Programs Focus on the Meth Epidemic

Last modified on February 1, 2006 01:54 PM

OPB, Frontline and The Oregonian Co-Production to Examine the Meth Epidemic in Oregon

Speed. Meth. Glass. On the street, methamphetamine has many names. What started as a fad among West Coast motorcycle gangs in the 1970s has spread across the United States. The drug is now more potent, and more destructive, than at any time in the past decade. To explore this issue that has had a devastating effect on many Oregonians' lives, Oregon Public Broadcasting and The Oregonian have teamed up to produce a documentary for the PBS Frontline series that examines the meth crisis in and beyond Oregon. OPB will expand upon this work with a series of programs on OPB TV, OPB Radio and OPB.org that track the impact of meth on individuals, families and communities, and what is being done to combat the problem.

"This is a problem that started here and has spread across the nation," said Steve Bass, president and CEO of OPB. "The bad news is that Oregon has been dealing with this epidemic for a long time. The good news is, that because of our experience, we have a lot of knowledge about the problem. Frontline provided us with the opportunity to produce an important program to share with our local audience and the entire nation. It takes stock of where we are in this crisis, what we've learned and how we're making headway," said Bass. "We'll also serve our local audience by using all our resources - television, radio and the Web - as a catalyst to find solutions to this serious problem."

The Frontline documentary was inspired by a series of articles by award-winning Oregonian reporter Steve Suo. Suo and a number of Oregonians contribute to the Frontline documentary, "The Meth Epidemic," airing Tuesday, February 14 at 9pm nationally on PBS stations. Immediately following at 10pm, OPB's Colin Fogarty will host Meth: The Oregon Front, a roundtable discussion about Oregon's meth crisis. (Frontline rebroadcasts on Thursday, February 16 at 3am and 9pm and Meth: The Oregon Front at 4am and 10pm.)

Frontline: The Meth Epidemic
Twenty years ago, methamphetamine abuse started in the Western United States, but began spreading rapidly into the Midwest. Now the drug has reached the East Coast. "Meth has made a steady march across the United States," said The Oregonian's Steve Suo. "Right now you have Mexican methamphetamine flooding in through Atlanta, and from there [it] fans out both south and north." The discovery of meth labs in states from Maine to Florida foreshadows a new crisis on the East Coast: "They can expect to see increased car theft, increased identity theft, ... domestic violence, child neglect, drug overdoses and just a lot of mayhem," said Suo. Indeed, statistics show that meth can trigger a surge in other crimes: In Oregon, a staggering 85 percent of property crime, as well as a majority of muggings, car thefts and identity thefts, have been linked to the drug.

The number of meth addicts is skyrocketing: With 1.5 million addicts in the U.S. alone and millions more around the world, the United Nations calls meth the most abused hard drug on earth. This program investigates America's addiction to meth and exposes the inherent conflict between the illegal drug trade and the legitimate three-billion-dollar cold remedy business.

Meth: The Oregon Front on OPB TV
Following Frontline at 10pm, OPB's Colin Fogarty will host Meth: The Oregon Front, a roundtable discussion about Oregon's meth crisis. Some of the Oregonians interviewed by Frontline, as well as other experts, will be in OPB's studio to explore why meth is such a problem in Oregon and learn what Oregon leaders are doing to find solutions. Participants in the discussion include Steve Suo from The Oregonian, Rob Bovett of the Oregon Narcotics Enforcement Association (Newport), Bret King of the Multnomah County Sheriff's office and Jay Wurscher, State Alcohol and Drug Services coordinator. Support for this broadcast comes from the Ford Family Foundation, the Northwest Health Foundation and Kaiser Permanente.

OPB Radio to Air Meth Series
Four radio commentaries from people in Oregon whose lives have been affected by meth in distinct ways will air February 6-9 on Morning Edition (3-9am) and Oregon Considered (4:30pm). In addition, OPB's Christy George will host a special Oregon Territory on February 10 at 4:30pm devoted entirely to Oregon's meth crisis.

OPB Web Site and Online Forum
Each panelist from Meth: The Oregon Front will present an essay on the OPB Web site introducing themselves and their perspective on meth as it relates to them both professionally and personally. Additionally, visitors to the OPB Web site (opb.org/meth/) can submit questions and comments that will be considered for discussion on Meth: The Oregon Front.

The Web site will also feature material from OPB Radio and TV programs and provide additional resources about meth.

"The Meth Epidemic" is a Frontline co-production with Oregon Public Broadcasting in association with The Oregonian. The producer, director and writer is Carl Byker, whose work includes The New Heroes and The Great War for PBS. The executive producer for OPB is David Davis. The executive in charge for OPB is Jack Galmiche. Frontline is produced by WGBH Boston and is broadcast nationwide on PBS. The executive producer for Frontline is David Fanning.

Oregon Public Broadcasting Launches Its First Digital Multicast Channel

Last modified on January 31, 2006 09:31 AM

On January 9, 2006 Oregon Public Broadcasting will launch a new 24-hour channel that will feature OPB productions, national news and talk programs and some of public television's most popular lifestyle and how-to programs. OPB CREATE is OPB's first multicast channel and second channel on its digital transmitters and represents the next step into the digital future. OPB CREATE will also be distributed by Comcast on digital channel 210 available to Comcast digital cable television audiences from Eugene to Vancouver, and on Clear Creek Telephone and TeleVision in Oregon City on digital cable channel 162. This dynamic new service will provide viewers with more flexibility, more choices and greater convenience to watch their favorite public television programs and find new ones.

Weeknights from 6pm-12am OPB CREATE will air BBC World News, Oregon Art Beat, Smart Gardening, Oregon Field Guide, Charlie Rose, The NewsHour, Tavis Smiley and the Nightly Business Report. In addition each week OPB CREATE in partnership with American Public Television will feature 22 high-profile series and specials in its daytime, weekend and overnight schedule. The channel's do-it-yourself genres will include viewers' favorite public television series and specials on cooking, renovating, painting, crafts, travel, gardening and other interests. Current titles range from Rick Steves' Europe Classics to Caprial & John's Kitchen and America's Test Kitchen to P. Allen Smith's Garden Home and Scrapbook Memories. The full schedule for OPB CREATE is available on the OPB Web site.

"OPB CREATE recognizes a commitment to our supporters who contributed to our digital conversion, enabling us to provide added public broadcasting programs through our increased digital channel capacity," said Tom Doggett, OPB vice president of TV Programming. "It gives us an opportunity to serve new and wider audiences. We will also be able to offer our traditional OPB TV viewers more options to watch their favorite programs as well as other public broadcasting programs not available on our normal schedule such as Tavis Smiley, Jacques Pepin, For Your House and more," he said.

Support and funding for OPB CREATE is provided, in part, through contributions to the OPB Capital Campaign which is helping raise the millions of dollars necessary to convert to the mandated digital broadcast system by 2009, and by a grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) through its Digital Services Fund.

New TV Translator in North Coast of Oregon

Last modified on January 31, 2006 09:31 AM

On October 12, OPB turned on a new TV translator service on the North Coast area. The signal can be seen on Channel 23, and the translator itself is located just North of the Columbia river near Chinook, Washington.

The new signal will serve the Astoria/ Seaside/ Gearhart, etc., areas, as well as most of Long Beach Peninsula in Washington.

Antenna Installation to Affect Bend Service

Last modified on January 31, 2006 09:31 AM

UPDATE: September 23, 2005 The delivery of OPB's new digital antenna for the Bend area has been delayed, therefore we do not have a definite installation date at this time. We will post information as we learn more about the delivery date.

During the installation, a temporary antenna will provide limited service for the Bend area. If you are a cable viewer in Bend or Redmond, your service should not be affected. However, most other areas will experience impaired or no service. Radio service should be unaffected except for minor interruptions during construction.

We apologize for any inconvenience. Rest assured, we will get the work done and be back on the air at full strength as soon as possible. Please check back at opb.org or call Audience Services at 888-293-1982 for the latest construction updates.

Thank you for your patience and support.

New Children's Series Airs Weekdays on OPB TV

Last modified on January 31, 2006 09:31 AM

Preschoolers will be singing a new tune when MUSTARD PANCAKES enters OPB's weekday lineup beginning Monday, June 6 at 10:30am.

This new children's series for 3-6 year olds features singer/storyteller Courtney Campbell and her fun-loving and inquisitive brood of puppet friends Oogleberry Ink Dog, Tiny Tina Ten Toes, Mo and Mr. D.

In each program, the MUSTARD PANCAKES family invites its young audience into their home to learn from the experiences of the characters through the magic of storytelling and the joy of song. The issues that are raised in MUSTARD PANCAKES are gleaned from the same issues that kids are dealing with on a daily basis, ranging from the emotional, such as sharing and caring, to the practical, such as practicing and tenacity. By combining story, song and experience, MUSTARD PANCAKES actively and thoughtfully engages children in the process of learning.

MUSTARD PANCAKES airs weekdays at 10:30am and Saturdays at 7:30am on OPB.

We'd like to hear what you think of this new series! Please email your comments about MUSTARD PANCAKES to mustardpancakes@opb.org.