FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ms. Lucie M. Houle
Public Information and Outreach Manager
WSBE Rhode Island PBS
50 Park Lane Providence, RI 02907
T: 401-222-3636, ext. 216
F: 401-222-3407
E: lhoule@ripbs.org

Alexandria, VA and Providence, RI (December 5, 2005) - PBS KIDS GO! celebrates the holiday season on December 16 with its first-ever "PBS KIDS GO! Winter Pop-Up-Palooza." The two-hour event includes the one-hour special, "Arthur's Perfect Christmas;" MAYA & MIGUEL's "Miguel's Wonderful Life;" and CYBERCHASE's "Starlight Night," with seasonal facts popping up on the screen throughout the block.

"Through PBS KIDS GO! Winter Pop-Up-Palooza, PBS is not only sharing some diverse cultural traditions with early elementary school kids, but also encouraging kids to think about the interactive questions on the screen and teaching them interesting facts in a fun, creative context," said John F. Wilson, Senior Vice President, Programming, PBS.

Throughout each episode, fun facts about holiday traditions, the winter season and other details related to the PBS KIDS GO! shows will pop-up on the screen to engage and entertain kids. For example, during ARTHUR, kids will find out the first place the sun rises on Christmas Day and in MAYA & MIGUEL, viewers will learn what "Nochebuena" means.

Facts are extended online with additional themed activities and games such as online polls and making holiday cards and recipes at pbskidsgo.org.

PBS KIDS GO! Winter Pop-Up-Palooza Episode Descriptions

ARTHUR

Arthur's Perfect Christmas

All of Arthur's friends celebrate Christmas differently and in fact, some don't celebrate Christmas at all. Will Arthur be able to handle a Christmas that's not quite like what he's used to? The stress of making Christmas perfect is getting to both Buster and his mom. Maybe what they need is a holiday all to themselves, "Baxter Day." Elwood City is a melting pot of holiday celebrations. There is Kwanza and Chanukah, some celebrate by feeding the homeless and some practice a traditional Swedish celebration. Arthur and his friends realize that the differences in celebrating are what make the holiday so special.

MAYA & MIGUEL

Miguel's Wonderful Life

It's Christmas, and the Santos family is getting ready for the festivities. Maya, in her enthusiasm, manages to mess things up for Miguel: she spills juice on his book report, volunteers him to hang a piñata in class (a task which makes him take a humiliating fall), volunteers him to wear a too-big Santa suit and follow her around wishing their neighbors happy holidays (his pants fall down in front of everyone), and smudges a painting he was making as a gift to his parents. Frustrated, Miguel angrily declares that he wishes he never had a sister. The next day, he awakens to find his wish has come true; Maya doesn't exist, and nobody's ever heard of her. Paco (who has inexplicably become incredibly articulate) follows him around, commenting as Miguel takes in how the world has changed. At first, it seems like all his Maya-made troubles are over... but then Miguel sees how the lack of Maya's influence has adversely affected the world: Maggie and Chrissy aren't friends because they had a difference of opinion (which Maya had previously helped them overcome), Mr. Nguyen isn't their teacher because he felt unappreciated (Maya had made him feel appreciated), Jimmy McCorkle became a bully, etc. Finally realizing how much worse everything is without Maya, Miguel regrets he ever made the wish, and wishes it all to be reversed. Poof! The world goes back to normal. Maya is back, Miguel's painting is still ruined, and Miguel couldn't be happier to have a twin sister.

CYBERCHASE

Starlight Night

It's Starlight Night, the annual holiday when all the stars in Cyberspace are refreshed for the New Year. But Hacker concocts a scheme to darken the stars of cyberspace forever. He sends Buzz and Delete to stop all production of the new star circuits and take inventor Archimedes away to the Northern Frontier. With the ceremony only hours away, the kids and Digit must find a simple way to make the complex circuits and rescue Archimedes - all before Hacker turns out the lights in cyberspace! If you can spot an easy problem inside a hard one, the simpler solution can help you solve the harder problem.

With a 360-degree approach towards learning and reaching children, PBS KIDS leverages the full spectrum of media and technology advancements as well as community to build knowledge, critical thinking, imagination and curiosity. PBS KIDS encourages children to interact as respectful citizens in a diverse society. By involving parents, teachers and caregivers as learning partners, PBS KIDS helps to empower children for success in school and in life.

About PBS KIDS

PBS KIDS is committed to providing the highest quality non-commercial content and learning environment for children across the country. Providing age-appropriate, diverse programming for kids, PBS KIDS' programs consistently earn more prestigious awards than any other broadcast or cable network. Only PBS KIDS has earned the unanimous endorsement of parents, children, industry leaders and teachers. With additional PBS resources to complement its programming, including PBS KIDS online (www.pbskids.org), PBS KIDS GO! (www.pbskidsgo.org), PBS Parents (www.pbsparents.org), PBS TeacherSource (www.pbsteachersource.org), PBS Ready To Learn services and literacy events across the country, PBS KIDS is providing the tools necessary for positive child development. PBS is a nonprofit media enterprise owned and operated by the nation's 348 public television stations, serving nearly 90 million people each week and reaching 99% of American homes.

Contact: Jill Corderman, PBS KIDS, 703.739.5788 / jcorderman@pbs.org

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (December 1, 2005) - Former broadcast executive Robert E. Fish has been named president and CEO of WSBE Rhode Island PBS. Fish, 60, assumes the position on January 1, replacing Susan L. Farmer, who retired in May 2004 after 17 years.

Fish was approved on November 16 by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island that owns and operates the public television station.

Sheldon S. Sollosy, chairman of the authority, said the group looked at several candidates before choosing Fish. "We were impressed by his experience," Sollosy said. "He's owned radio and TV stations, and we thought a new perspective for Rhode Island PBS would be a good thing."

Fish, a Warwick native and Bryant College graduate, had his first broadcast experience in sales at WPRO in Rhode Island and then WRKO in Boston. From 1984 to 1989, Fish was president and CEO of Federal Communications Corp, which owned WHJJ and WHJY in Rhode Island and two radio stations in Louisville, Kentucky. In 1989, Federal Communications sold the stations to Merv Griffin.

Fish formed an investment and consulting company, then got back into broadcasting in 1992 with the purchase of two radio stations in Phoenix. Fish sold those stations in late 1994, and became chairman of the U.S. Broadcast Group, which owned seven television stations in medium-sized markets.

In 1999, Fish temporarily left broadcasting and bought an auto dealership in Wakefield, Rhode Island, although he said his participation was more about providing the capital than selling cars. Having sold that business about 18 months ago, Fish said he was looking for a new challenge.

"Sixty is not very old these days, and when you have broadcasting in your blood, you always want to get back," he said.

Rhode Island PBS has 35 full-time employees and another six part-timers, with an annual budget of $3.6 million.

WSBE-TV Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (November 2, 2005) - Stunning works by several well-known local artists and popular favorites top this year’s collection of art to be sold in the Rhode Island PBS Arts Auction. The four-evening event is underway this week, November 2 through 4 from 7 to 11 p.m., and on Saturday, November 5 from 5 to 9 p.m. on channel 36 / RI cable channel 8 (check local listings in Massachusetts).

An original 28”x36” oil by Maxwell Mays donor valued at $6,000, and a 15” bronze sculpture by Mimi Sammis donor valued at $6,200, are among the exceptional pieces that will be auctioned off to benefit Rhode Island’s only public television station. An original oil by Richard Grosvenor, giclée and artist’s proof by Armand La Montagne, giclée by Richard Benjamin, Priscilla Cane, lithographs by Thomas Kinkade, and beautiful vases and bowls by Anchor Bend Glassworks, are just a few of the outstanding works of art available to the highest bidder.

Celebrity auctioneers appearing during the four-evening event include Dan Soules, Richard Conti, David O’Brien and Mary Hood. Auctioneers present items in each gallery; viewers bid on the items by calling the telephone number that appears on the television screen. Bidding moves at a fast pace, and tables are closed after items have been presented a second time. Newcomers to Rhode Island PBS televised auctions can obtain an Express Bid Number by calling 401-222-3636, x0.

The Rhode Island PBS Web site – www.RIpbs.org – features photographs of the Major and Special works of art. This year, the Web site also includes each night’s auction schedule, so viewers can see the day and hour their favorite items will come up for bid. More information about the 2005 Rhode Island PBS Arts Auction, including Pick-Up and Pay hours and directions to the station, is online at www.RIpbs.org.

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (October 31, 2005) - Everyday Happiness, a new six-part monthly television series, will air its second episode on Friday, November 18 at 7:30 pm on WSBE Rhode Island PBS, broadcast channel 36/RI cable channel 8. Produced by Hera Educational Foundation in Wakefield, the series focuses on several specific Rhode Island communities and their pursuit of happiness. The November 18 episode of Everyday Happiness looks at Rhode Island immigrants and happiness.

According to the 2000 census, Rhode Island has a total population of 1,048,319. Non-native born residents account for 11% of the population. Rhode Island immigrants are from: Latin America, 37%; Europe, 33%; Asia, 16%; Africa, 10%; North America, 3%; and Oceana, .3%.

In Everyday Happiness host Sandra Enos, associate professor of Sociology at Rhode Island College, leads a roundtable discussion with two scholars: Dr. Jon Lu of CCRI and Dr. Jose Itzigsohn of Brown. Dr. Lu explains the challenges of assimilation for Rhode Island immigrants, "You want to succeed, that means you have to integrate, merge, but you want to also preserve your multi-culturalism." Dr. Itzigsohn examines the tradeoffs immigrant communities face when pursuing the American dream, "The individualistic yardstick of achievement leads to the weakening of some forms of solidarity." Local Rhode Islanders from Senegal, Korea, the Azores, Italy, the Dominican Republic, China, Liberia, and Argentina share their recollections about leaving their country of birth, landing in Rhode Island, adjusting to a different culture, learning a new language…and pursuing happiness.

Everyday Happiness is produced by filmmaker Lisa Delmonico, a Providence-native and current resident, by Sandra Enos and by Hera Educational Foundation. Delmonico's short film Classical Differences was shown on Rhode Island PBS in January 2005. Her media art installation, Yellow Cottage Projections, using oral histories of former residents of the Rhode Island State Home and School, was presented on the grounds of the former orphanage in May 2005.

"Everyday Happiness" is made possible through major funding support from the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities, an independent state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (October 28, 2005) - With autumn leaves falling and a cool nip in the air, recapture the sweet sounds of summer with NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL 2005. The special premieres on Thursday, November 17, 2005, at 10 p.m. on WSBE Rhode Island PBS, broadcast channel 36 / RI cable channel 8 (Massachusetts cable subscribers, check local listings). Taped during the August 13-14 JVC Jazz Festival at Newport - the world's original jazz festival - NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL 2005 packs highlights of great performances into a one-hour program.

Every year since 1954, the festival hosts the biggest names in jazz and spotlights the hottest newcomers, performing on three seaside stages in Newport's historic Fort Adams State Park on scenic Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island. NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL 2005 includes performances by Wynton Marsalis, Patricia Barber, Dave Holland, Medeski Martin & Wood, and Joshua Redman.

NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL 2005 captures the sights as well as the sounds of the summer jazz celebration. With its focus on the music, this year's special gives viewers a real sense of the festival atmosphere, with scenes of the audience, the food, the vendors, and backstage shots intermingled with performance highlights.

NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL 2005 features these musicians performing the following selections (in order of appearance):

• Wynton Marsalis Quintet - "Skipping" and "Big Fat Hen"
• Patricia Barber Quartet - "Norwegian Wood"
• Dave Holland Big Band - "Upswing"
• Medeski Martin & Wood - "New Planet"
• Joshua Redman Elastic Band - "Sweet Nasty

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (October 25, 2005) - For four evenings beginning Wednesday, November 2, Rhode Island PBS will showcase original works of art donated by hundreds of artists and artisans of local, regional and national prominence, all to benefit Rhode Island’s only public television station. The Rhode Island PBS Arts Auction will air Wednesday, November 2 – 4, 2005, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday, November 5 from 5 – 9 p.m. on WSBE channel 36 / RI cable channel 8 (check local listings in Massachusetts).

Auction galleries feature drawings, etchings, giclee, photography, and oil, pastel and watercolor paintings, depicting a wide range of subjects and representing various art styles. Ceramics, blown glass, pottery, cast copper and masonry, jewelry, and wood crafts represent the tactile arts.

Newcomers to Rhode Island PBS televised auctions can obtain an Express Bid Number by calling 401-222-3636, x0. Auction proceeds support Rhode Island PBS programming. More information about the 2005 Rhode Island PBS Arts Auction is online at www.RIpbs.org.

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (October 14, 2005) - It's been said that when you incarcerate a woman, you imprison her family. More than 90% of Rhode Island women in prison have at least one child. These women will complete their sentences and return to the community. Currently, 1 of 120 women in Rhode Island is on probation or parole.

The success or failure of their reentry into society depends on many factors, including finding the right combination of transitional support to fulfill emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. Beyond these challenges that formerly incarcerated men and women face in common, there is a host of special issues and challenges that are unique to women, especially women with children.

Children need continuous care and support, so who fulfills the children's needs during their mother's incarceration? How does an incarcerated woman maintain a relevant place in her child's life throughout the months and years of her confinement? After her release from prison, how can the woman resume the role as her child's primary caregiver? Are there alternative ways to "punish" a lawbreaking mother that don't also punish her children?

These and other related issues will be the focus of a round table discussion hosted by the Roger Williams University School of Justice Studies on Wednesday, October 26 at 6 p.m. at the RWU Feinstein College of Arts and Sciences, Room 157, Bristol. The presentation is open to the public.

Assistant Professor Yolanda M. Scott, Ph.D., will facilitate the discussion. As a sociologist with a specialty in criminology and deviance, Dr. Scott has a broad understanding of incarceration and reentry issues, and is particularly interested in how these issues affect women.

Joining Dr. Scott in the discussion will be Theresa Foley, professional service coordinator at the DOC Women's Facility; Robyn Frye, site coordinator for Making Connections Providence and a prison minister; Don Laliberte, case manager with Project Bridge; and Anna Maria Raimondo from Transformation House, a residential facility for incarcerated women who are near the end of their sentences and preparing for reentry.

Part of the ongoing Reentry Media Outreach Initiative, this presentation is the collaborative effort of Rhode Island PBS, Making Connections Providence, Rhode Island Family Life Center, Rhode Island Department of Corrections, and the Roger Williams University School of Justice Studies. Initiative goals are to raise public awareness and to motivate and mobilize community action, to foster public safety and support healthy communities. This initiative is funded by a grant to Rhode Island PBS from Outreach Extensions, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, with additional support from the Roger Williams University School of Justice Studies.

Making Connections Providence, an Annie E. Casey Foundation initiative, works to strengthen the neighborhoods of Elmwood, South Providence and the West End by encouraging growth of local social networks. To support resident families and to help their children thrive, Making Connections Providence has developed core values, focus areas, improvement strategies and a unified team approach to addressing major issues facing neighborhood residents.

The Rhode Island Family Life Center (FLC) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to support and advocate for the reintegration of ex-offenders into the community. The organization's goals are to stabilize offenders returning to the community so that they are less likely to recidivate; to strengthen families to help offenders reintegrate and reconnect with their loved ones; and to remove barriers to reintegration for ex-offenders. The FLC's reentry program uses a holistic, family-based approach to support offenders as they prepare to leave prison, return home, and stabilize in the community. The FLC begins to work with clients while they are still incarcerated and then offers a one-stop center for them (and their families) as they reintegrate into the community.

The Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) contributes to public safety by maintaining a balanced correctional system of institutional and community programs which provide a range of control and rehabilitation options for criminal offenders.

Roger Williams University is a regional, liberal arts university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and sciences, architecture, business, construction management, education, engineering, historic preservation, justice studies, legal studies, public administration, visual arts studies, and law. The university enrolls more than 5,000 students at the main campus in Bristol, R.I., The Ralph R. Papitto School of Law, and at the Providence Metropolitan Center for Education and Law, and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (Wednesday, October 19, 2005) - On Thursday, OCTOBER 27, WSBE Rhode Island PBS (channel 36/RI cable channel 8) will broadcast the film P.O.V. 90 Miles and the local short video Mai: A Lesson in Courage, Passion, and Hope as part of the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities (RICH) - Rhode Island PBS film series In the Pursuit of Happiness: What is the American Dream? Throughout 2005, occurring once a month, RICH and Rhode Island PBS are presenting films that explore varied notions of the "American Dream." Collectively, the series reflects critically on this cultural ideal from several perspectives (the immigrant experience, gender, sexual orientation, class) and includes both historical and contemporary events or issues. Directly following each feature film is a winning selection from In the Pursuit of Happiness: What is the American Dream? Short Film Initiative 2005. This initiative offers local filmmakers the chance to produce short videos that explore the Rhode Island angle to these national stories. October's selected short is Mai: A Lesson in Courage, Passion, and Hope produced by RI filmmakers Maria and Scott Saracen of 3rd Story Productions.

October's feature documentary P.O.V. 90 Miles is a probing and thoughtful personal memoir that offers a rare glimpse into Cuba, a country as mythologized to Americans as the United States is to the rest of the world. Cuban-born Juan Carlos Zaldívar recounts the strange fate that brought him as a teenage communist to exile in Miami in 1980 during the dramatic Mariel boatlift. Zaldívar uses news clips, family photos and home movies to depict the emotional journey of an immigrant father and son struggling to understand the historical and individual forces shaping their relationships and identities in a new country.

As a local companion piece to the feature documentary, Rhode Island filmmakers Maria and Scott Saracen have produced the short documentary Mai: A Lesson in Courage, Passion, and Hope. This short explores Barrington resident Mai Donohue's journey from rural Vietnam to Rhode Island and her dream for a better life through education. Little did she know how elusive her dream would be, or the remarkable journey her life would take on the road to achieving her aspirations. Today, after decades of helping her two brothers and her six children obtain an education, Mai has finally taken her turn. "The more children I sent to college, the more I felt left out, left behind....I have a good life, a good home, a good husband, good children, but I want more. There's nothing wrong with it. So I went to college." Hers is an extraordinary lesson in courage, passion and hope.

The full line-up for the film series can be viewed online at www.ripbs.org/AmericanDream.html. RICH and Rhode Island PBS are thrilled to work together to combine the goals of their missions and bring thought-provoking programming to the Rhode Island public. Funding for this film series was provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities - We the People Initiative and the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities. For more information, please contact SueEllen Kroll, Program Officer at RICH at sue@rihumanities.org or by phone at (401) 273-2250.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (October 3, 2005) - World renowned Narragansett, Rhode Island, sculptor and painter Mimi Sammis is raising the bar on "how to" programming. Her new Rhode Island PBS series, Mimi's Art Studio, blends the worlds of fine art and instructional television as skillfully as she blends her paint colors. In the series, Mimi visits locations and people that serve as a source of inspiration and then returns to her studio to work. Along the way, Mimi deftly reveals the creative process, making fine art accessible to public television viewers. Mimi's Art Studio airs Sundays at 3 p.m. on WSBE Rhode Island PBS, broadcast channel 36 and RI cable channel 8.

An exciting feature of the series is Mimi's use of mixed media and painting techniques. In the first season of thirteen 30-minute episodes, Mimi will demonstrate acrylics, watercolors and pastels. Mimi shares the dynamic creative process within the "rules" of composition - style, design, establishing balance and interest. In an easy-listening, conversational tone, Sammis explains - and shows - how each painting has its own energy, an energy that both comes from the artist and further inspires the artist. From this synergy between art and artist evolves a work that can differ from the artist's original vision.

"In creating art - music, writing or painting - people get engrossed and feel peaceful," she says.

Calling the artist a "shape maker," Mimi explains color values and the interplay of light and shadow in her demonstrations. Through the program, viewers peer into the creative process, understanding the "why" behind the strokes. Mimi hopes this insight helps viewers develop and refine their own creative style.

Calling the artist a "shape maker," Mimi explains color values and the interplay of light and shadow in her demonstrations. Through the program, viewers peer into the creative process, understanding the "why" behind the strokes. Mimi hopes this insight helps viewers develop and refine their own creative style.

The second episode begins at the RISD Museum, local home to works of the great Masters. In the studio, Mimi begins a reproduction of Monet. Episode three concludes her two-part Monet demonstration.

Although the series features a prominent Rhode Island artist and showcases local sites, the series certainly offers wide appeal beyond the Rhode Island borders. The premiere season will be broadcast exclusively on WSBE, the program's distributor. Plans are currently under consideration to distribute the series nationally to other public television stations in 2006.

About the Artist Anne Mimi Sammis started her artistic career in the medium of watercolors. From landscape painting, she expanded her artistic vision to bronze sculptures. Her exuberant pieces range in size from 1-22 feet and incorporate fountains and moveable figures. Represented in more than 300 public and private collections world wide, her local permanent exhibits include Dance of Peace, towering 21-feet on the green at Narragansett Town Beach. Other public art works are exhibited at The Children's Museum, Women and Infants Hospital and the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery. In 2002, England's Queen Elizabeth unveiled Sammis's sculpture, He Has The Whole World in His Hands, a piece commissioned by the Archbishop of Canterbury to honor the queen's Golden Jubilee.

For more information about Mimi's Art Studio, contact Lucie Houle at Rhode Island PBS 401-222-3636 x216 or lhoule@ripbs.org. For more information about artist Mimi Sammis, visit www.mimisammis.com.

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (September 13, 2005) - As Steve Kass signs off the WPRO-AM weekday morning airwaves to begin a new career as communications director in Rhode Island Governor Donald Carcieri's administration later this month, he leaves another broadcast vacancy in his wake. Kass, longtime host of A Lively Experiment, the popular weekly political affairs program on WSBE Rhode Island PBS, will lead the discussion for the last time as host on September 15.

"We congratulate Steve and wish him success in his new position," said Rhode Island PBS Acting President and CEO David W. Piccerelli. "But our celebration for him is also mixed with sadness. We will miss him here at Rhode Island PBS."

A Lively Experiment, democracy with a Rhode Island accent, features spirited debate of a favorite local pastime, politics and government. For the show's entire 17-year run, Kass has hosted a changing panel of four guest news reporters and newsmakers - political scientists, pundits, elected officials, and Rhode Island personalities. The weekly feature, "Outrage of the Week," typifies the essence of the show's political commentary. Each guest is surveyed for his or her most significant issue in an eclectic compilation of failings and foibles, often by local officials. The program tapes Thursdays in the late afternoon and airs at 7:30 p.m., with re-broadcast the following Sunday at noon, on channel 36, RI cable channel 8; Massachusetts cable subscribers should check local cable listings.

Piccerelli said the public television station has put out an "open call" in search for a new host. Successful candidates must have on-air experience. Although members of the local media - radio, television, newspaper - with an interest in politics and political affairs are preferred, Piccerelli said the station will consider other qualified candidates. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and sample video tape to David Piccerelli, Rhode Island PBS, 50 Park Lane, Providence, RI 02907.

Piccerelli said that guest hosts will fill in until a suitable permanent host is named. "There's a lot of talent in this state, and there's no lack of political topics and issues to discuss. The show will continue without interruption," he said.

"We hope to have the process complete by the beginning of January, but we're prepared to carry it on until the right host can be found."

WSBE Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (June 3, 2005) - Huddled together, three children whisper to each other, hurrying to come to a consensus in as little as 15 seconds. One young voice speaks for the rest, sometimes with assurance, sometimes more tentatively. Breath held, they await the judges' decision.

In a day of excitement tempered by tense concentration, the 2005 trophy was awarded by Providence Mayor David Cicilline to the team from Webster Avenue Elementary School, who bested the field of twelve other teams of Providence fourth and fifth graders in the fourth annual VIPS Battle of the Books. Second place went to Pleasant View Elementary School, and third honors were awarded to Asa Messer Elementary School.

The competition, held at Rhode Island PBS studios on June 3, will air on Rhode Island PBS on Wednesday, June 8 at 2:00 p.m. and re-broadcast on Saturday, June 11 at 9:30 a.m. on channel 36/cable channel 8 (Massachusetts cable subscribers should check local listings). Sponsors Shaw's Supermarkets and Sovereign Bank awarded individual prizes to the top three winning teams, and distributed gift bags to all participating students.

Earlier this spring, the Volunteers In Providence Schools (VIPS) challenged the capital city's fourth and fifth graders to read a list of nine books, chosen by Providence public school librarians. Children then competed with their classmates in intramural contests for a chance to represent their school on a team of three participants and one alternate during the televised interscholastic competition.

"The goal is of Battle of the Books is to encourage reading, but more importantly, to enhance comprehension by having the children apply critical thinking and analytical skills to what they read," said VIPS Executive Director Terri Adelman.

During VIPS Battle of the Books, the teams answered round after round of thought-provoking questions and tie-breakers, in a quiz show format hosted by Karen Adams, award-winning anchor at Eyewitness News, WPRI/WNAC. Judges were Rhode Island State Senator Juan M. Pichardo; Stacey Jordan, Mayor's Special Assistant for Education in Providence; Sue Stenhouse, Deputy Director of Community Relations in the Governor's Office; and Kathy Branca, Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) coordinator for VIPS.

The thirteen participating schools included the 2004 champions Edmund W. Flynn Elementary School, plus Anthony Carnevale Elementary School, William D'Abate Elementary School, Mary E. Fogarty Elementary School, Charles Fortes Academy, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, Harry Kizirian Elementary School, Laurel Hill Elementary School, Alfred Lima Sr. Elementary School, Asa Messer Elementary School, Pleasant View Elementary School, Webster Avenue School, and Windmill Street Elementary School.

Volunteers In Providence Schools is a not for profit organization that provides free academic support services to academically needy students in Providence. The mainstay of the organization is its Tutor Placement program. VIPS places over 1,000 tutors annually to work with students one-on-one or in small groups.

WSBE-TV Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (April 21, 2005) - An estimated 4,000 Rhode Island men and women will be released from prison in 2005. The success or failure of their reentry into society depends on many factors, particularly finding the right combination of transitional support to fulfill emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.

These factors, as well as some of the public safety, financial and social impact reentry has on the community, will be the focus of a panel discussion presented by Rhode Island PBS on Thursday, April 28 at 6 p.m. in room 283 of the Ralph R. Papitto School of Law at Roger Williams University, Bristol. Panelists will be A.T. Wall, director of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections; Yolanda Scott, PhD, assistant professor at Roger Williams University; Sarah Gormley, discharge planner at the ACI through CCAP (Comprehensive Community Action Program); Judge Stephen Fortunato, Jr.; and Joe Buchanan, president of Project Basic and formerly incarcerated. Presented by Rhode Island PBS, the discussion will be moderated by Paul Zangari, host of Thirteenth State. The panel discussion is open to the public, and the audience is invited to participate.

Rhode Island PBS is working with Making Connections Providence, the Family Life Center, the Rhode Island Department of Corrections and Roger Williams University School of Justice Studies. The goals of the project are to raise public awareness and to motivate and mobilize community action, to foster public safety and support healthy communities. This project is funded by a grant to Rhode Island PBS from Outreach Extensions, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, with additional support from the Roger Williams University School of Justice Studies.

Last fall, Rhode Island PBS launched the first phase of the multi-year community outreach project, presenting five workshops on general reentry issues and specific obstacles faced by formerly incarcerated men. From the workshops emerged a clear picture of common obstacles to success.

Now as phase two begins, the project will target one identified barrier - the difficulty finding a job - through presentations to small groups of business leaders.

A second theme during phase two will be addressing issues affecting formerly incarcerated women and their families. Through its Ready To Learn program, Rhode Island PBS will hold two workshops for parents and caregivers of children who have a parent in prison.

A third element of phase two will bring together various faith-based groups to discuss, plan, and share resources among groups.

Throughout the year, Rhode Island PBS will broadcast documentaries that explore themes relevant to the outreach project:

WSBE-TV Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.

National PBS Meeting, Las Vegas, NV (April 11, 2005) - Following the official launch of PBS KIDS Sprout, the first-ever preschool digital channel and video-on-demand service, PBS today announced that 45 local PBS stations in the Top 60 DMAs will participate in the PBS KIDS Sprout Local Marketing Affiliation Program (LMAP) -- representing nearly 50 percent of U.S. television households. The marketing affiliate program provides stations with an integral local cross-promotional and marketing role in expanding the reach of PBS KIDS programming through PBS KIDS Sprout. The announcement was made at the PBS Showcase in Las Vegas, a national meeting of more than 770 public television leaders

PBS KIDS Sprout, created in partnership with Comcast, Sesame Workshop and HIT Entertainment, is brought to individual communities through their local cable operator, or via satellite, in association with PBS stations around the country. In addition to offering 24-hour access to signature PBS station programs in their communities, the new service offers long-term revenue potential to be invested back into further strengthening the local PBS stations' commercial-free children's blocks - PBS KIDS and PBS KIDS GO! - delivered to American households free and over-the-air. PBS local member stations continue to be the primary home to the educational programs that children love and parents trust

The stations participating in the Local Marketing Affiliation Program take a more active role in the partnership through cross-promotion activities with PBS KIDS Sprout and their local cable operator. Under the terms of the agreement, these PBS stations will broadcast FCC compliant on-air spots to build awareness of PBS KIDS Sprout. In addition, PBS KIDS Sprout will run cross-channel spots and print ads promoting the association with local PBS stations. One station in each market will also receive co-branding presence on the VOD menu user interface initially in Comcast markets, with other operators expected to follow. When the technology is available, participating stations will have the opportunity to insert local spots on PBS KIDS Sprout cross-promoting their station. All local PBS stations have the option to work with their local cable provider to coordinate community announcements and events around PBS KIDS Sprout.

"PBS KIDS Sprout provides a second home to some of the best-known and most-loved preschool television shows available at any time families want to watch them," said Wayne Godwin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, PBS. "The marketing initiative marks an unprecedented collaboration between local PBS stations' broadcast and cable systems making a powerful community impact that greatly benefits both partners and the viewers in each market. Having completed a successful first phase of this marketing initiative with a significant number of stations signing on, we look forward to opening up the program to more stations across the country."

"Comcast recognizes the importance and value of the relationship PBS stations have with their members, and we share a commitment to quality children's entertainment," said Amy Banse, Executive Vice President, Content Development, Comcast. "We are dedicated to making a successful local impact with PBS stations as a partner in presenting PBS KIDS Sprout to communities around the country."

In addition to the new PBS KIDS Sprout On Demand service that premiered on April 1, 2005, offering parents 24-hour access to the programs they trust most, a digital cable channel will launch this fall -- making PBS KIDS Sprout a great place for parents and their little ones to enjoy the wonders of early childhood any time they want.

Brought to viewers in association with local PBS stations, PBS KIDS Sprout On Demand now is available for no additional charge to digital cable customers in Comcast markets with VOD service, and will also be available in markets served by Insight Communications. The VOD service will offer 50 hours of programs a month, with twenty-five percent of the programs updated every two weeks, so families will always have a fresh selection of episodes to watch together. The new digital channel will launch this fall on Comcast, Insight Communications and DirecTV, and additional cable and satellite carriage will be announced later this year.

Among the popular and award-winning series that will be available anytime through PBS KIDS Sprout are Sesame Street®, Bob the Builder™, Barney & Friends™, Thomas & Friends™, Angelina Ballerina™. Sagwa: The Chinese Siamese Cat™, Caillou®, The Berenstain Bears™, Jay Jay the Jet Plane™, Teletubbies™, Dragon Tales™ and many others.

The stations participating in the Local Marketing Affiliation Program include:

PBS is a private, nonprofit media enterprise that serves the nation's 348 public noncommercial television stations, reaching nearly 90 million people each week through on-air and online content. Bringing diverse viewpoints to television and the Internet, PBS provides high-quality documentary and dramatic entertainment, and consistently dominates the most prestigious award competitions. PBS is the leading provider of educational materials for K-12 teachers, and offers a broad array of educational services for adult learners. PBS' premier kids' TV programming and Web site, PBS KIDS Online (pbskids.org), continue to be parents' and teachers' most trusted learning environments for children. More information about PBS is available at pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org Web sites on the Internet, averaging more than 30 million unique visits and 380 million page views per month in 2004. PBS is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.

Contacts:
Stephanie Aaronson, saaronson@pbs.org, 703-338-6986 (cell)
Jan McNamara, jmcnamara@pbs.org, 301-922-5490 (cell)

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (March 11, 2005) - Despite what they may say on Broadway, sometimes the show just can't go on.

Last Tuesday night's icy snow storm forced a change in programming at Rhode Island PBS. Volunteers from MetLife were scheduled to staff the telephone bank and receive calls from viewers who were voting on their favorite British comedy. However, the live broadcast event was postponed until March 15 at 7 p.m., in hopes that Mother Nature cooperates in allowing volunteers to arrive safely at the station and return home.

"Driving was treacherous around 6 p.m., and the forecast indicated it would only get worse while we were on the air," said Acting President David Piccerelli. In making the decision to postpone the special broadcast event, Piccerelli said the safety of the volunteers and staff was of utmost importance. "Although our fundraising is very important, too," he quickly added with a smile.

Brit-Coms & Ballots Night will include 15 minutes of clips from four British comedy series, including two available to Rhode Island PBS but not currently airing on the station's weekly Tuesday night Brit-com line-up. Viewers will have several opportunities to call in to vote for their favorite Brit-com. The four candidates are Waiting for God, Barbara, Vicar of Dibley, and Next of Kin. The two-hour comedy extravaganza will also include the two full-length final series episodes As Time Goes By.

"This is our third 'Brit-Coms & Ballots' event," said Kathryn Larsen, Rhode Island PBS programming director. "Our Brit-com fans love the variety, and the interactive element is very popular with our viewers." Larsen added that viewers appreciate playing an active role in the station's programming. She said that, unlike other television stations, "we actually listen to what viewers have to say and we respond. It's a fun way to communicate."

WSBE-TV Rhode Island PBS is owned and operated by the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority, a quasi-public agency of the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the Public Broadcasting Service. As Rhode Island's most accessible learning resource, Rhode Island PBS is dedicated to the principle of lifelong learning and broadcasts family-oriented programs that educate, inform, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut. For more information about the programs and services at Rhode Island PBS, visit www.RIpbs.org.