In a state where the “Kevin Bacon’s Six Degrees of Separation” theory is really only two or three degrees, keeping good news under wraps in Rhode Island is a tough job. We know a guy. You know the same guy. His name is Bill Rappleye, and this talented guy is joining a growing list of talented and seasoned news professionals moving to WSBE Rhode Island PBS.
Later this year, the public media station embarks on a fresh approach to regional news delivery: a balanced, reflective television news magazine that delves into important local stories, reaching beyond the evening news headlines.
“We are just thrilled to welcome Bill to the Rhode Island PBS family,” said station President David W. Piccerelli. “Bill’s keen insight and tenacity in pursuit of the story are legendary.”
With positions in New York and Boston early in his career, Bill spent close to 18 years as a political reporter at WJAR NBC10. For 16 of those years, Bill hosted 10 News Conference. He earned awards and nominations along the way for his coverage of the Rhode Island State House and Washington, D.C.
In his new role as a senior investigative journalist on the Rhode Island PBS news show, Bill will apply his acumen and fairness to crafting powerful stories about local issues.
Initial concepts for the weekly news magazine, still in development, include in-depth investigative reports, as well as profiles of the newsmakers behind the headlines. Editions may include several short documentaries on a range of subjects or explore the various angles on the same topic.
“We are excited to develop this program and we are hiring the best people to help us build it. Bill Rappleye is an integral part of the team that will bring our vision to life,” Mr. Piccerelli added.
“This is a great opportunity to combine my experience in this market with the reputation Rhode Island PBS has cultivated for featuring local perspectives on important issues. I look forward to this new chapter.”
About Rhode Island PBS
WSBE Rhode Island PBS is operated by the Rhode Island PBS Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. WSBE Rhode Island PBS is a viewer-supported member of the PBS network of public broadcasting stations, and uses the power of noncommercial media to educate, engage, enrich, inspire, and entertain viewers of all ages in Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut since 1967. WSBE-TV delivers content on two channels: Rhode Island PBS (digital 36.1), and Learn (digital 36.2). For more information about programs at WSBE, visit www.ripbs.org.
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