The Detroit Public Television Blog

Digital Transition

2008-11-20T10:19:00.002-05:00

DTV…Now is the time

More and more calls are coming into DPTV Member Services from people who are still confused about the Digital Transition coming up on February 17, 2009.

First, realize that the change IS coming, like it or not. As of this posting you have 90 days to prepare, but don’t wait! It can take you up to 6 weeks to receive the discount coupons from the government for your digital box! If you haven’t already requested yours I’d suggest doing it now by calling 1-888-DTV-2009
(1-888-388-2009) or online at http://www.dtv2009.gov/ today. The number of coupons is limited and since the government is willing to give you $40 towards the converter (limit 2 per household), why not take advantage of it!

It’s true that if you watch through cable or satellite you don’t have to do anything. What about the TVs that you don’t have connected to the cable or satellite though? If they’re not newer digital (and I’ll bet they’re not or you’d have them hooked up!) they will need a box in order to receive ANY TV signals. The one in the basement, in the spare bedroom, in the kid’s room…don’t forget any TV that you use! Have a TV in your camper or RV or at your cottage? These will need to be digital or have a converter box too.

With the economy being as it is, one thing you need to remember too, if you’re considering cancelling cable or satellite to cut costs then you need to get a digital converter box for any older analog TV sets you have currently connected to that service. My family has been discussing the possibility of having to cancel our service if things continue as they are. We have two older TV sets in the house and have requested coupons so we can pick up converter boxes and have them on hand in case we do. The boxes don’t “expire” but the discount coupon does, 90 days after it’s mailed.

Why now? Can’t I wait?

The answer is sure, you can wait. Just remember that this change is happening for literally EVERY TV set in AMERICA all on the same day. The longer you wait, the longer you may HAVE to wait if you have questions or problems hooking up or getting your favorite channel as they will all be receiving calls from everyone who has chosen to wait.

A benefit of getting set up now is that you can use the current analog broadcast to help you to “fine tune” your antenna and box to get the most from your digital conversion. Digital signals are like the beam from a flashlight and many who have already converted have found that they need to re-adjust their antenna or even go so far as to move the placement of the TV in their homes to pick up their channels. Once the analog broadcast is gone, it will be simply trial and error. You won’t be able to switch back to analog and see what the picture looks like to see why you may be having problems with the digital channel. Taking the step to go digital now gives you the opportunity to use the old to help “fine tune” the new.

The best reason I can think of for not waiting is this: You will be receiving even more channels than you do now! When you are watching digital TV, Channel 56 now has available Channel 56.1 which is our High Definition channel, Channel 56.2 which is the digital version of our current analog broadcast and Channel 56.3 which is the Create channel for all cooking, travel, arts and crafts and home improvement shows all the time.
For more information about the Digital Transition you can visit http://www.dtv2009.gov/ , the DPTV website, or watch The ABCs of HDTV. You can also visit DTV Answers site for lots of easy to follow information.

The one thing to remember is…don’t wait! Get ready NOW and then sit back and enjoy the excellent picture and the peace of mind of knowing that you’re ready!

Pam Reynolds
DPTV Member Services

The Jewish Americans

2008-11-18T11:39:00.003-05:00

THE JEWISH AMERICANS, a three-part documentary series written and directed by the Emmy Award-winning filmmaker David Grubin, examines the struggle of a tiny minority to make its way into the American mainstream. While the story of Jewish life in America is emblematic of the American immigrant story, it is also a unique story of ongoing discrimination and stereotyping coupled with some of the most remarkable accomplishments in American history, the arts, commerce, science and academia.

The Documentary Follows 350 Years of Jewish American History, From the First Settlement in the 17th Century to the Present, and Explores the Experience of Immigration and Assimilation.

Tune in to all three parts of this program on Detroit Public Television; Sunday November 23rd at 2pm.

Video Your Vote

2008-11-06T09:55:00.004-05:00

Detroit Public Television and YouTube have joined forces for the Video Your Vote project. Tons of viewers just like you, filmed their voting experiences and uploaded the videos to our YouTube channel. Visit http://www.youtube.com/user/detroitpublictv to catch a glimpse of history in the making and review all the election day footage from the Video Your Vote project!

Frontline "Heat" - Tuesday October 21 9 p.m. - 11 p.m.

2008-10-21T10:24:00.014-04:00

Most of us are trying to “go green”, but it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the global scope of the issues of climate change. HEAT, a special two-hour FRONTLINE episode that reveals what businesses across the world are doing and not doing to protect the environment airs tonight at 9pm.

For years, big business - from oil and coal companies to electric utilities to car manufacturers - has resisted change to environmental policy and stifled the debate over climate change in America and around the globe. Now, facing rising pressure from governments, green groups and investors alike, big business is reshaping its approach to the environment.Correspondent Martin Smith investigates the ways that companies are repositioning to help them prosper in a radically changed world. Watch the trailer and don’t miss this special program Tuesday night at 9. Donate Now - Keep programs like this on the air! Tell your friends and family about this special. Tell a Friend

Get all the latest and let YOUR voice be heard

2008-10-02T15:48:00.006-04:00

You see and hear it everywhere. The elections this year are highly contested and are taking center stage in discussions throughout the state and the country. Where can you get the most information to make your decision? How can you let candidates, and everyone else, know what issues are most important to you? DPTV can help you with both!

Vice Presidential Candidates Debate Thursday 10/2
To get to know the Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates, DPTV is bringing you the debates live, uninterrupted and commercial free! Tonight, the greatly anticipated debate between the Vice Presidential candidates will be broadcast from St. Louis from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Catch every second and every expression as Biden and Palin debate the issues and explain why their party is the right choice for your vote.

The historic Presidential election isn’t the only decision you need to make this year though. There are many hotly contested state seats up for grabs this year as well. With plenty of coverage on the National election, how do you learn more about your LOCAL choices? The Great Debates is how! Sundays from 3 PM to 5: 30 PM DPTV is airing a series of debates between candidates for the State House of Representatives arguing their plans for Michigan and reasons why voters should send them to Lansing. This week, candidates from District 22, 33, 25, 24 and 20 are featured in 30 minute debates. Best of all, you can view all the Great Debates online at DPTV.org on-demand. Not sure of your District? All debates are listed in Archives and specify what area the district covers so you can watch just your district debate or watch them all to learn about all the candidates who want to win votes to serve in Lansing.

Looking for that one stop where you can see the debates, listen to what others are thinking and let others know what your important issues are? Look no further than the new MiVote site! This site is presented by DPTV and U of M Dearborn and is the perfect place to get updated on the issues both federal and state, get the latest on political news, debate your choice with others and even upload your own comments about the issues that matter to you most. With the deadline to register coming up on Monday, you can even find out how to register to vote so you’re ready for the election in November.

Lots of resources to help you become an informed voter and to make your voice heard as far as your major issues this election season. DPTV is happy to help bring you the information you need.

Pam Reynolds
DPTV Member Services

A Busy Week

2008-09-23T15:33:00.002-04:00

As reporter John Smyntek said in the September 21 edition of the Detroit Free Press, “Last week was a busy one at Detroit Public Television.” It was indeed. John reported that:

The Hudson Webber Foundation approved a grant of $300,000 to support the acquisition of a high-definition, digital production truck. The grant comes as Detroit Public TV aims to finish a $22-million capital campaign to complete its federally mandated conversion to digital technology. To date, the campaign has raised more than $17 million; the deadline is March 31.

PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger visited Detroit on September 18 to speak at the Detroit Economic Club and to help launch Channel 56's fall season at the annual PBS Premiere Night celebration and fund-raiser at the Detroit Athletic Club. Among the honorees for supporting public TV at that event were the Erb family, Lois Shaevsky, U.S. Rep. John Dingell, D-Dearborn, and the Masco Corp.

John also reported on “The Great Debates” a series on 20-25 debates, produced with The Center for Michigan, featuring candidates in selected races for the Michigan House of Representatives. The debates will air at 3 p.m. Sundays on Channel 56, with lots of alternative availability online at dptv.org.

Then there's mivote.org, a presidential election-oriented Web site run with help from the University of Michigan-Dearborn that gives students across the state a chance to talk about the John McCain-Barack Obama presidential race.

Of our election coverage, Smyntek said, “It's a bold attempt to shine the light on legislative races that don't get a lot of attention from the blood-and-guts local commercial TV news operations, which long ago shuttered their Lansing bureaus when consultants deemed political fare a turn-off.”

While we appreciate the good press coverage, what we really want is to hear from YOU. Go to MiVote.org and share your thoughts. Comment on this blog. Tell us what role Detroit Public TV plays in your life. A busy week – with our production crews hopping from one set to another – is good, but it’s even better when we know our efforts are meaningful and relevant to viewers like you. Let us know how we’re doing.

Dave Devereaux is VP, Communications for Detroit Public TV.

Laughing in the Rain

2008-09-12T10:00:00.003-04:00

Detroit Public TV lost a friend this week. His name was Scott Booth. I didn’t know him well, but he was a producer who created a lot of great work in our community and on Channel 56.

He was 44 and died from injuries in an accident that happened along Woodward Avenue. That’s the headline. I don’t know the back-story but I do know that when I worked with him he was fun, had a great laugh and a light approach to TV; which was key in shooting an episode of “Get Up Get Out” with me and Kelley at Red Oaks Waterpark – with a hundred kids – in a thunderstorm!

I haven’t seen him around lately, but I know many will miss him. He was one of us, and now he is gone. We were talking about Scott in the pledge studio last night and remembering some of the things that he worked on. Thinking about the randomness of things, it’s hard to know how to exactly put it into perspective, but that is always the work of those left behind.

Our live pledge programming last night went to 11 p.m. As I headed eagerly to the door, our volunteers from the Renaissance Festival hollered out to me to ask if I would take their picture on the pledge set. Of course I would. I snapped a couple shots with someone’s phone and then as one of the “wenches” was handing over her digital camera, she stopped.

“Oh, my battery is dead!”
She ran out of the room in her bodice and bonnet to retrieve a fresh one from her bag. As a minute or so passed I thought about getting out the door – I had just texted Wendy that I was going to be home in 30 minutes and now I was tracking behind. Finally, the “maiden” returned and we got a nice shot of Kelley and the Festival players in the studio.

When I finally got onto north 75, I could see a slow-down up ahead. Approaching Eight Mile Road I discovered the aftermath of multi-car accident. A couple cars off to the left; one in the center lane; two on the right shoulder and one upside down at the top of the embankment, resting against the overpass.

The police hadn’t arrived yet and a couple of people were still getting out of their cars; it was a bad scene. With his passing fresh in my mind, Scott was the first thing I thought of – him, and these random moments of panic and pain that sometimes seem unavoidable.

And then I thought about that minute. The minute I waited for someone to replace a battery that had stopped me from leaving a little sooner. The minute that I checked the time on my phone and chit-chatted with Kelley and the volunteers…now, I’m not saying I was going to be in that accident, but at that moment, I was sure glad I wasn’t.

So the randomness of things moves both ways; sometimes what seems like an obstacle is really an assist; things that might be hindering our progress are actually moving us forward, just at a little different pace. From the little I knew of Scott I think he got that. At least that’s how it seemed that day that he, Kelley I spent laughing in the rain – or maybe, thanks to Scott, we were laughing at it.

Fred Nahhat is Director of On-Air Fundraising and Co-host of “Get Up Get Out.”

STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER

2008-09-12T09:52:00.006-04:00

I’ll admit it. I was, am and forever will be, a Beatles fan. As a teenager, I was thrilled when I first heard “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and “She Loves You.” Compared to the folk music of the Kingston Trio or tunes like Millie Small’s “My Boy Lollipop,” the Beatles sounded sophisticated, electric and utterly original.

When you think about the pop groups then, each group had a “sound” and many of their songs sounded alike. Think Beach Boys or Jan and Dean or The Four Seasons. Is “Rag Doll” that much different from “Dawn?” But the Beatles… they were able to produce so many different complex tunes. From “Meet the Beatles” through “Rubber Soul” and “Revolver” to Sgt. Pepper, each album was filled with surprising, hook-heavy, original songs. I remember asking for a new Beatles album for Christmas one year, finding it hidden in a closet with other future presents, and sneaking it out to play it when the folks weren’t around. Not sure how I faked surprise about the open shrink wrap and worn down grooves when opening it on Christmas Day, but that was the depth of my obsession.
But enough about me.

Quench your Beatles thirst by watching “Rain: The Beatles Experience” now playing (8 pm, 9/17 and other times) during our membership drive on Detroit Public TV. “Rain” is a very cool, multi-media tribute to the Fab Four covering five periods from Beatlemania to Abbey Road. Check it out. I’ll be singing along and I hope you will be too.

Dave Devereaux is VP of Communications for Detroit Public TV

I’m not going to sleep!

2008-09-10T14:29:00.004-04:00

I love all the specials we air during fundraising time. Things you would never get to see anywhere else just “magically” appear and keep me busy with reminder emails and punching buttons to set another recording session on the DVR.

Tonight is a great example as DPTV airs a new special, Motor City Celebrities at 8 PM. This 1 hour special brings back great memories of TV in the Motor City as it reviews Kelly and Company, with John Kelly and Marilyn Turner. It also looks back at Lou Gordon. A must see for anyone who lived in Detroit during the 70’s.

Another new special starts at 9 PM as Great Performances remembers Luciano Pavarotti in Pavarotti, A Live in Seven Arias. This 2 hour special includes concert footage and interviews with Jose Carreras and Placido Domingo. I’m hoping that our WRCJ friends will join is for this one as well.

The great entertainment continues Thursday as “Ol’ Blue Eyes” Frank Sinatra: A M an and His Music is featured at 8 PM. This 1965 Emmy winning concert features so many favorites like I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Come Fly with Me, My Kind of Town and The Lady Is a Tramp. Sinatra fans won’t want to miss this!

A brand new special follows at 9:30 PM as DPTV brings Rain: The Beatles Experience to Detroit. This tribute group is amazing! Songs in the special include Hey, Jude, Yesterday, Revolution and Come Together. And you’ll want to watch the breaks for news of the just confirmed concert with Rain bringing this live show to Detroit!

Friday is a great night as well as Johnny Cash: A Man and His Vision is back by popular demand at 8 PM. This review of the Johnny Cash show features great show footage and performances.

Get ready for a unique experience Friday at 9 PM as DPTV brings you the first airing of Vox Lumiere: The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This creative mixed-media presentation puts a whole new twist to the 1923 silent film featuring Lon Chaney as the song and dance troupe Vox Lumiere (which means Voices of Light) add a rock score and act out and interact with the original film. Rocky Horror Picture Show fans will love this one, especially the live show feel to this!

Saturday, I just have one thing to say…60’s LIVE! 3 hours of nothing but the 60’s in a new telethon format shown LIVE nationwide! Join us for this exciting event with the Smothers Brothers, Michelle Phillips, Jackie DeShannon and Petula Clark, to name just a few. Special appearances also by Betty White, Ed Asner, Gavin McCloud, Chloris Leachman, Mike Farrell, Shelly Fabares and Vicki Lawrence! And the best thing…live and archival performances and celebs answering the phones to take your pledge! This all starts at 8 PM.

With all this excitement, I expect to be sleeping all day Sunday, but if you’re up there are lots of specials on all day Sunday as well. Check your Signal guide or our online schedule for details.

Pam Reynolds
DPTV Member Services

Reclaiming History

2008-08-21T14:40:00.005-04:00

I was watching “Book Notes” on CSPAN last night and they were airing an interview with Vincent Bugliosi about his book “Reclaiming History” on the Kennedy assassination. Aside from thinking that I needed to get a life, it reminded me of an old friend I hadn’t thought about in years.

His name was Al. He was in his 70s and he lived in an apartment complex where I was a van driver in college. His sisters Angela and Mary lived there too, a couple of buildings down. Aside from taking the bank deposit each day, it was my job to drive tenants along a fixed route in Birmingham and Troy – with stops at Perry Drugs; Farmer Jack and the theater – and for about a year, I drove Al and the other residents on their errands around town.

Long since retired, Al dressed each day as if he was still going to work at the IRS where he’d started after World War II: Suit. Shirt and tie, overcoat and a grey felt fedora. He appeared to be a buttoned-down type, but he was quick with a smile or quip or a cutting remark under his breath directed mostly at Angela who’d never let him get a word in edgewise – which was difficult enough for Al who had a terrible stutter.

He knew I was finishing school and he’d tell me stories about what it was like when he was starting out. He said he’d had been offered a job at a bank, but received his induction notice the very next day. “The man told me to come and see him when the war was over, and I did,” but by then, everything changed. Al served in the Navy during World War II and although he said he was proud of it, he told me frankly one day: “it ruined my life.”

He said he could speak just fine when he went in, but he became so shell-shocked by the constant bombing and shelling that he couldn’t talk, couldn’t sleep and certainly couldn’t take that job as a banker. And most regrettably, he said, it kept him from ever getting married.

One day, when I was helping him carry in his groceries, he pulled a copy of “Helter Skelter” off his bookshelf and said to me: “My nephew wrote this book.”

“Your nephew is Vincent Bugliosi?” I asked. And he said he was.

He opened the front cover and showed me the inscription: “To Uncle Al – Love Vincent.” For the next hour, Al spoke freely about how proud he was of Bugliosi; he talked about Charles Manson and Sharon Tate. He told me how Vincent had come to Detroit one time to appear on a TV show – and that he brought him to the studio and then took him to lunch.

But the thing I remember most about that conversation was that suddenly the old man’s stuttering had all but disappeared. No stammering, no fits and starts, no struggling to communicate – just the passion of an old Italian telling a story of his family with a twinkle in his eye.

After I finished college, I’d visit Al from time to time and we’d talk. But nothing ever matched the joy he’d shown that day bringing in his groceries and talking about the man he said was his nephew and made him so proud – the one who was now on TV talking about “Reclaiming History.” If only Al could have re-claimed his own.

Fred Nahhat is DPTV Director of On-Air Fundraising and Co-host of “Get Up Get Out.”

Classics, Classics, Classics

2008-08-20T15:18:00.009-04:00

Double your pleasure Wednesday on DPTV with a double dose of classic (and classy) women of comedy on American Masters. The first episode at 8 PM features one of the greatest female comedy talents ever, Lucille Ball! American Masters: Lucille Ball: Finding Lucy, an American Masters Special reviews the life and career of one of America’s favorite comedy greats. Show clips, interviews and lots of laughs in this 90 minute special. Just how popular was the I Love Lucy show? The show beat out Eisenhower’s first Inauguration in the ratings!

Wait! Don’t tune away yet. Wipe away those tears of laughter because you’ve got more comedy headed your way! Red heads rule on this Wednesday evening as the second American Masters of the evening brings you Carol Burnett: A Woman of Character at 9:30 PM. Two of my all time favorites back to back on DPTV! Can it get any better than this?

The classics continue on Friday when Chase Film Festival screens the George Cukor’s 1954 semi-musical remake of A Star is Born at 9 PM. This 3 hour film features James Mason and Judy Garland. Drunken waning movie star Norman Maine (James Mason) meets showgirl Esther Blodgett (Judy Garland) when he literally stumbles into her act one night. A friendship develops which blossoms into romance but tensions increase as Esther’s career takes off while Norman’s plummets.

Classic comedy and classic movies that the whole family can enjoy!

Pam Reynolds
DPTV Member Services

Support Detroit Public Televisions Capital Campaign

2008-08-15T23:30:00.001-04:00

I'm happy to announce that to date we have raised $16.5 million toward our Capital Campaign goal of $22 million! Thank you so much to everyone who made a contribution so far.
We're getting closer to the goal, but we still aren't there. Now I have an idea. The more people who participate in The Campaign for Detroit Public TV, the higher the chances are that we'll reach our goal. Think about how hundreds or thousands of gifts online can really add up!
So, here's the plan: please forward this message to 6 friends - what the heck, 20 friends - and let's all donate $20.
I believe we can reach that $22 million goal and ensure a future of great programming at this pivotal moment in Detroit history.
Donate $20 Now and help ensure the future of Detroit Public Television.
Thank You!

Motor City Madness

2008-08-14T09:47:00.004-04:00

Well, it’s that time again! Time for Detroit and the surrounding area to shine! Time to expect long delays getting around, and not because of construction. Time to “chill out”, to sit back, to crank up the volume and to reminisce. It’s time for the Woodward Dream Cruise!

Officially, the Dream Cruise takes place this Saturday but as anyone who lives in Pontiac, Ferndale, Berkley, Royal Oak and the surrounding communities can tell you, it’s been going on all week. Despite gas prices, cruisers have already been out in their classics and creating quite a buzz along Woodward. The closer we get to Saturday, the more classic cars you’ll see. Those lucky enough to live around the cruise area get to see the best the Motor City has offered. They also get to deal with the biggest headache, getting around over the weekend.

Big Boy is even turning the State Fair Grounds into the biggest “drive-in” restaurant on Saturday with carhop service and family picnic area. Talk about a “flashback” to the 50’s!

For those who don’t know, the “center” of the action is at the WoodNorth Center, located at Woodward and 13 Mile. Here, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of some of the classic cars up for auction on eBay and be right in the thick of the action.

This year SMART is not providing free bus service as they have in the past so if you like moving from area to area, you’d better plan on getting your exercise.

With everything that has been going on in Detroit over the last week or so, it’s nice to be able to focus on Detroit’s heyday and watch some of the great classics produced here on display as they slowly cruise up and down M-1.

Pam Reynolds
DPTV Member Services

Giveaways!

2008-08-14T08:01:00.003-04:00

Before summer ends, we thought it would be nice to give some tickets away to our loyal blog readers! So, here’s your chance to register for two giveaway drawings which take place on Monday, August 18.

Enter to win a family 4-pack to the Michigan State Fair or two tickets to the Corbin Bleu concert on Monday, August 25 at 7:00 PM.

Good luck and thanks for reading our blog!

READY FOR SCHOOL

2008-08-11T15:10:00.007-04:00

One of the joys of working at Detroit Public Television is the opportunity to be involved in TV productions that make you feel good. I was reminded of this the other day as we taped our yearly “Kids Club Ready for School Adventure.” It’s a pretty simple production, really; 25 five-year-olds come down to the studio to be interviewed by Fred and Kelley and learn a few tips about entering kindergarten. There’s Officer Gasiorek from the Royal Oak Police Department with help on crossing the street; Pediatrician Dr. Dorsey and Katie the Dietician with healthy hints; Miss Ruth to demystify riding the bus and an actual kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Cole, to show us around the classroom.

A highlight of the 30-minute show is when Kelley is introducing the videotape with Mrs. Cole with the roll cue of “Let’s go inside.” Spontaneously, one of the children hollered “OK!” and leapt from the set and ran right toward the camera. You can’t rehearse stuff like that, nor could you recreate the laughter and smiles that ensued in the studio. It was a gentle reminder that a little bit of child-like enthusiasm can brighten any day. It certainly brightened mine. Meet the children embarking on their Kindergarten adventures by tuning into WTVS Detroit Public TV at the times below. They’re old enough to become “ready to learn” but still young enough to teach us a lesson or two.

Kids Club Ready for School Adventure Airtimes:
Sunday, 8/24 at 9 am
Tuesday, 8/26 at 6:30 am
Friday, 8/29 at 12:30 pm
Monday, 9/1 at 12:30 pm
Friday, 9/5 at 5 pm

Dave Devereaux

Detroit Public TV Vice President of Communications

An Unexpected Discovery

2008-08-08T13:38:00.007-04:00

I was reading an article in the latest People magazine featuring America’s sweethearts and philanthropic darlings, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. As I skimmed through the article to my surprise I ran across this little tidbit:

On rumors Jolie watched "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" while on bed rest at the hospital: "I've never seen that show. I watched 'The War' by Ken Burns. I figured it would be the only chance I had to watch a 15-hour documentary."

I thought to myself, Angelina Jolie, mega star, activist, goodwill ambassador and poster girl for Generation X, watched a riveting and educational PBS documentary while awaiting the birth of her twins. I was very impressed by Ms. Jolie’s actions.

Kelly Johnson

The Detroit News

2008-08-07T11:00:00.009-04:00

All week, WTVS-TV (Channel 56), Detroit Public Television, has uniquely merged its pledge drive with PBS favorites like "Antiques Roadshow," "Nova" and "This Old House" to provide an in-depth look into the future of the station as it converts to digital programming. The pledge drive comes to an end tonight.

This unprecedented telethon approach is intended to inform viewers about the historic upgrades happening with the station while urging support for the final stages of local PBS affiliate's capital campaign.

With more than $16.5 million raised toward its $22-million goal, the viewer-supported station, which has been around for a half century, intends to complete its campaign by the end of 2008. The funds will finance the building of studios and technical facilities, and a production truck that will accommodate state-of-the-art productions from anywhere in Southeast Michigan. Another harbinger of change is the station's impending conversion to digital broadcasting, a federal mandate that will impact viewers when it takes effect in February.

Success in the campaign by Dec. 31 will permit the station to take advantage of a $1.25-million Kresge Foundation challenge grant announced earlier this year.

Additionally, challenge grants totaling more than $100,000 from businesses, community partners and individuals are helping to spur viewer contributions. Challenge grant partners include the Suburban Collection, Ferrous Process and Trading Company, Al Long Ford, Detroit Public TV employees, and the Skillman Foundation, the latter of which will be matching pledges tonight.

Mekeisha Madden Toby

It Keeps Getting Better!

2008-08-06T11:30:00.015-04:00

I try to keep up on what DPTV is doing on our website so I can help callers find what they’re looking for. There is a wealth of knowledge and information available with the click of a mouse at DPTV.org but even I was pleasantly surprised to find our newest addition to the site!

Ever wonder what the inside of your favorite station looks like? In conjunction with the Campaign for Detroit Public Television you’re being invited inside and can now take a virtual tour of the Riley Broadcast Center! We’ve posted the tour so you can “visit” the station without having to leave the comfort of your home. Even though I work at the Riley Broadcast Center, I was able to view areas that I’ve never seen and feel more a part of the station than ever.

I’ve been watching the Campaign updates each night and have adopted a part of the Riley Broadcast Center, as have all my co-workers. Dan talked last night about 100% participation by the Board of Directors and how important the station is to them and the Metro Detroit area. Tonight is the Employee challenge night. It will be revealed how DPTV employees feel about the campaign and the direction of the station. From what I’m seeing and the calls I’m getting with questions about processing online support, I’m anticipating that we’ll hear about a lot of new supporters to the Campaign, people who want to be a big part of Detroit Public Television.

My husband Phil is tickled to visit the Donor Wall of Recognition and see our names there as proud supporters of Detroit Public Television. He’s even extended his own challenge to his co-workers to get their names on the wall as well. I’m very surprised at how excited he is to get involved in his own way.

One program of special note this week is airing Thursday at 9PM. Because Minds Matter: George Riley profiles George Riley, the Detroit-area television pioneer and philanthropist from his start in the TV repair business and his move into early educational TV.

The Friday movie this week at 9 PM is Lust for Life. Anthony Quinn won a Supporting Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Paul Gauguin while Kirk Douglas expertly portrays the tortured artistic genius, Vincent Van Gogh.

Saturday on Mystery! Miss Marple is drawn into a new investigation when she’s contacted by the wife of a respectable colonel after a young dancer’s body is discovered in her husband’s library. Part 1 of 2 with the conclusion airing Saturday 8/16 at 9 PM.

Pam Reynolds
Member Services

S’More Music

2008-08-04T12:13:00.002-04:00

The house is quiet this week as Jesse is away at Church camp. It’s the highlight of his summer which I have a little bit of a problem with since I’m nowhere around! But since Jesus is involved, I guess I’ll let it slide.

It’s the same camp that I went to when I was growing up. My mom got us involved in music and ministry when we were very young and has said many times that it’s been the glue that kept our clan together all these years. Officially it’s “Choir Camp” but it’s much more than that. It’s praying and fishing and sailing and swimming, even Frisbee golf – something I guess they’ve added since I was a camper.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the Talent Show; a showcase of songs and skits from kids in grades fourth through 12th – and some of the counselors, too. It’s an eclectic mix of performances you might expect and some rather out of the ordinary turns like last year’s highlight of my nephew Clay burping the ABCs.

The one provision they do make for parents is opening up the mid-week festivities so that we can visit and watch at least some of the inspired moments unfold in this old YMCA Camp mess hall. The point of this review is less about “nailing it” and more about having the courage to stand up; to take your turn in the spotlight and feel what it’s like to be a performer.

Jesse played his guitar and sang “Stop and Stare,” by One Republic. It’s a brooding pop number that may be a bit advanced in its narrative for an 11-year-old, but he sang it well and more importantly for a shy kid, he looked his audience in the eye – at least I think he did from under all that hair.

Clay sang too, accompanied on guitar by his cousin Erica who also played solo and with her sister Melanie. Cousins Hunter and Ben and Josh appeared in a couple of performances along with the 70 or so other kids who’ve taken up residence for the week at Camp Ohiyesa.

But as the performances went on – amid squealing microphones, forgotten lines and inside jokes – it became clear that there were really two different audiences in the hall; the families that came to visit and the one that had been forming since Sunday afternoon. They cheered for one another; sang and danced together and raised each other up – and made the kind of bond you can only get by mixing religion, marshmallows and bug spray.

For all the pops songs, the dance routines and the silly one act plays, the point to all of this is to show our kids that each one of them has light to shine; to let them know that nobody’s going to laugh – that your mother might cry – and when you’re through, the applause that you hear is really the sound of us sticking together.

Fred Nahhat is DPTV Director of On-Air Fundraising and co-host of “Get Up, Get Out!”

Lunch with a Friend

2008-07-30T14:18:00.005-04:00

When I stumbled across an article the other day about Mister Rogers, it got me thinking of all the great lunches I spent with my childhood friend. I didn’t know him personally, but I felt like I did.

Sometimes my mom would allow me to have lunch in the living room so I could spend time with my television friend before I went down for a nap. She would pull a cushion from the sofa, center it in front of the television, cover it with a dish towel from the kitchen and place my lunch plate on it. There was peanut butter and grape jelly cut diagonally, a few slices of Swiss cheese, a small handful of pretzel sticks and a big glass of ice cold milk, which had to stay on the kitchen table. I would have to run into the kitchen and take a quick slug so as to not miss anything Mister Rogers was saying to me!

Me. Just me. When he spoke I truly believed he was speaking to me; he appeared on my TV set everyday just to talk to me and sing about what a special person I am. He played and talked with his puppet friends just like I did with my dolls. Visits to the crayon and marshmallow factories were some of the best field trips taken without leaving my living room. The stoplight in his kitchen helped me become a better back-seat driver as he reinforced green is go, red is stop.

Someone that I’ve never met or spoke to had the ability to entertain me, educate me and inspire me. That is pretty amazing. After lunch, heading off to nap wasn’t so bad; I was able to think about all that was shared during our time together and doze off with anticipation of what our next luncheon might bring.

What sparked a stroll down memory lane for you? Which television show do you find inspiring? Please share some of your favorite stories – you just might educate, entertain or inspire someone!

Michelle Gaisser - Manager, Special Events

Lifelines...

2008-07-30T13:48:00.008-04:00

Yes Mystery! fans, we know that Miss Marple was supposed to solve What Mrs. McGillicuddy Saw on July 26th. We also know that you’ve been hanging on that cliff and your fingernails are getting very weak and won’t hold you up much longer. Never fear…the conclusion will air this Saturday evening at 9 PM. This will push all scheduled episodes out by one week during the month of August. This is actually a blessing in disguise! Even though it means that The Body In The Library will air Part 1 on August 9th and Part 2 on August 16th. By bumping everything forward one week, the Miss Marple II: By The Pricking Of My Thumbs parts 1 and 2 will be postponed until October so you won’t be hanging from that cliff for over a month as you would have been.

Now that we’ve thrown a lifeline to our Mystery! viewers, let’s see what else we can uncover to entertain you over the next several days.

Tonight at 10 PM, Celine Dion takes the stage at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. A New Day even includes a beautiful duet with Celine and a virtual Frank Sinatra! This show was staged by Franco Dragone and is visually stunning in the Cirque de Soleil style against a huge screen.

Thursday night at 10 PM recalls the memories and experiences of the Korean War as veterans share their stories in Lest They Be Forgotten: Korea-The Forgotten War.

Tune in Friday at 9 PM as we kick off the Campaign for Detroit Public Television. This special campaign supports our transition to digital broadcasting and actually allows you to “adopt” a part of the station, truly making Detroit Public Television a part of your family and making you a part of the DPTV family.

The Campaign is followed at 9:30 PM by Hollywood Singing and Dancing: A Musical Treasure. Shirley Jones hosts this look back at Hollywood musicals including clips featuring Fred Astaire, Mickey Rooney, Judy Garland, Shirley Temple, Betty Grable, James Cagney, Frank Sinatra and Debbie Reynolds.

From the calls I’ve been receiving about our different “brain” programs, I know you won’t want to miss The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer’s on Sunday at 9:30 PM. This poignant and informative study of Alzheimer’s blends the personal stories of patients and their families with segments on the research into finding a cure or at least ways to slow the progression of the disease.

Pam Reynolds - Member Services

Touching the Past

2008-07-24T09:53:00.002-04:00

We took our vacation this week, spending some time at our family’s summer place on Lake Huron. While it’s great to travel to destinations undiscovered, our annual passage to Michigan’s Thumb is more about visiting familiar places with family and old friends.

Most of our time was spent on the water. After all it is time of the year when warm southerly breezes reveal a side of the lake that can only be seen in mid-July. With the elements receptive to our overtures, we went swimming and waterskiing, cruised the shoreline, and even explored the depths of the Great Lakes.

One afternoon, we sped a couple of miles north and tied off on the beach where my Aunt Joann used to live. We lost her last April along with a thousand family stories she loved to tell – many of which were mostly true. For a young boy, she was a terrific aunt. She lived in the county, had a creek in her yard and a boyfriend named Jim-Bob. And that was good enough for me.

As we walked down the dirt road and stood in front of her house, I told Jesse about the family reunions, the softball games and the hymns that filled the air there every summer. And as we turned to make our way back to the beach, you could almost hear the Methodists singing in her backyard.

When you travel by boat, there’s always something to see. There’s a shipwreck not far from where we go, 12 feet below the surface, about 300 yards off shore. It’s a schooner, lying bottom up, just as it has since 1913. It capsized during a storm that claimed dozens of other ships in what is known as the “Fresh Water Fury.”

And it is something of an attraction. We like to float above it and look down through the water. It never gets old. Neither does my asking other boaters “did you find any buried treasure?” Jesse and I go there whenever we need just a bit of an adventure. But this time, I upped the ante:

“Do you want to touch it?” I asked him.

“Do you?” he answered.

“I will if you will,” I said.

“You go first.” So I did. And then it was his turn. He unzipped his life jacket and dove down to the bottom. From the surface I could see him reach out and touch the keel of the ship that’s been submerged for almost a hundred years. And when he emerged from the water he had a look of both fear and excitement, as if time had brushed against his skin. And in a way, it had.

We touched the past this week as we visited old haunts and the angels and ghosts that we find there. And even though you can’t really go back, you can do your best to remember where you’ve been, the things you’ve done and the people you love; whether they’re here or in the hereafter.

Fred Nahhat is Director of On-Air Fundraising and co-host of “Get Up, Get Out”

Sign of the times…Relax!

2008-07-23T13:12:00.003-04:00

I couldn’t help but notice that the places I pass on my way to and from work are changing….a lot! Many of the places I’m used to seeing are closing earlier, opening later or simply closing their doors.

It’s kind of sad to see the neighborhood pharmacy that has been serving the community for over 50 years, with signs indicating they will be closing their doors for good on September 1st.

Restaurants that were open from 6 or 7 AM for breakfast to 11 PM or Midnight suddenly are closed one day a week or are opening now at 11 AM for lunch and closing by 8 PM.

Little unique stores that I always meant to make time to check out, have checked out themselves and now have a “for lease” sign in the window.

Things are getting tight for everyone in Southeast Michigan, as we all well know. Stress levels are up, free time is down and we’re all feeling as if we’re tied up in knots. We’ll make it through, as we have in the past, but dealing with it in the moment can really cause a lot of pain and worry.

Oh sure, there are new businesses moving into some of the locations being vacated. New signs are appearing for sure. Each one I’ve noticed, a total of 5 new signs on my 20 mile drive, have something in common. Each one is announcing the opening of a new business that will be in that location and each of those new businesses offers massage therapy. I guess it’s just a sign of the stressful times we’re experiencing when the newest businesses “in town”, the ones that are growing to include new locations, all have to do with helping us to get rid of the knots, the tension and the stress.

Hopefully, we will soon find that we no longer need a business devoted to helping us to de-stress. In the meantime, it’s good to know that when it’s just too much to bear, when you feel the need to “escape” you can do so just down the street with as many different “flavors” as you’d like. Traditional massage, therapeutic massage, Aromatherapy massage, Hot Stone massage, Reiki light touch or no-touch, yoga and meditation classes…you name it, it’s moving into your area to help you relax.

Like one of the new signs boasts: “Why Knots?”

Pam Reynolds
DPTV Member Services

Nonprofits create foundations for success

2008-07-21T14:00:00.017-04:00

We thought that you’d be interested in this commentary by DPTV General Manager Rich Homberg, which appeared in Detroit News on July 21st....

Nonprofits create foundations for success
Rich Homberg

In difficult times, it is easy to point to things that are going wrong. It is really time to identify the efforts that have traction or are gaining traction and figure out how to add to their momentum.
During the last three years, the dialogue in our region has turned to the critical need for cooperation, collaboration and the hard job of transforming Detroit. While many in government and business seek to lead change, I believe our strongest examples of true leadership are in our foundation community. Have you heard about the Dequindre Cut or looked at the work being done on the North End Project? The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and the Knight Foundation understand that green spaces and collaborative efforts will revitalize neighborhoods.

For a benchmark in cooperation, how about the $100 million New Economy Initiative, which includes 10 different foundations jointly tackling three different critical areas key to our growth? Especially significant here is that the Ford Foundation is back in Detroit in a strong way with its $25 million pledge to the initiative. Want to see tough-minded business basics in action? Watch Hudson-Webber go through your grant proposal, line by line, and try to answer their questions about your impact, effectiveness and efficiency. Talk to Mike Brennan about the way he has dramatically reshaped the United Way's priorities during the last three years with a process that has been open, inclusive and demanding. Is focus part of our challenge? Both the Skillman and Knight foundations are targeting specific geographic areas with projects that will improve the lives of children in Detroit --neighborhood by neighborhood. Strategic partnerships? Look at all that Richard Manoogian and the Masco Corporation Foundation have done to foster support for Detroit Institute of Arts, Sphinx Organization and other arts and human service initiatives. Preparedness? Nothing tests a nonprofit's readiness to achieve its goals better than a Capital Challenge Grant from Kresge. It can drive any nonprofit organization across Detroit to better understand its role in our region, raise new dollars from new and existing donors, and fulfill its mission into the future. A Kresge Challenge Grant strengthens nonprofit organizations, which in turn, enhances the quality of life in our region -- keys to attracting and retaining a superior work force.

Here's a challenge for all organizations. Attend a meeting with any of the major foundations in Detroit. You'll start on time, follow a strong agenda, answer tough questions and walk away knowing that the job will get done. How do you build momentum? Add your personal energy to a collaborative effort going on between two or more nonprofits or foundations that are making a difference. Maybe your efforts will be another spark to accelerate positive change in the communities in which we live.

______________________________________________________________

We welcome your comments and hope that you’ll spread the word about positive collaborations in Southeast Michigan. If we all share a story about this, perhaps we will put the need for greater collaboration at the top of the list of solutions!

Emmy Nominations

2008-07-17T13:15:00.009-04:00

PBS led the News and Documentary Emmy Nominations announced this week in New York with 38 – more than twice as many as the next closest programmer. ABC and CBS each received 17, NBC had 14. Among cable networks, The History Channel had 6, CNN had 5, Discovery Channel had 3, and MSNBC had 2.

Public Broadcasting is the place for people who are serious about journalism and documentaries. The public continues to depend on the nation's over-the-air broadcasters, and particularly the quality of Public Broadcasting. Keep tuning into these award winning programs for quality information; especially during this upcoming election season.