West Warwick and Westerly Are OUR TOWN Sites for 2016

When Rhode Island PBS put out the call in December for the next Our Town locations, residents from towns across the state stepped up. By the time the January 31 deadline arrived, it was clear that two towns had equally enthusiastic support.

"We are proud to announce that by popular decision, West Warwick and Westerly are the next locations for Our Town in 2016," said David W. Piccerelli, president of WSBE Rhode Island PBS. "We sincerely thank all those who submitted entries - community pride was clear - and we are thrilled about the winners." West Warwick will be featured in a documentary televised in September 2016, and Westerly will be featured in December 2016.

Piccerelli said enthusiasm has grown for the Our Town project - now in its third cycle - thanks to the fun and success of the first three projects. Our Town: Glocester, the first documentary in the series, debuted in December 2014, followed by Our Town: North Kingstown in September 2015 and Our Town: Portsmouth in December 2015. "The comments that we and the participants received in relation to each of these projects have been very inspiring. We're looking forward to building on that energy as we take the project now to West Warwick and Westerly."

YOUR VOICE, YOUR VISION 
Our Town is a community project wherein neighbors become filmmakers and tell the stories of Our Town. Part fund-raiser, part community builder, part historical and cultural documentary, and part "day-in-the-life" video scrapbook, Our Town shares with viewers the local legends, historical happenings, and backyard secrets of the particular town and its villages - untold or uncelebrated stories that capture the essence of the town.

"Our Town gives the community a platform to share stories and perspectives on the town in their own voices," Piccerelli said. "It's also a meaningful way for us to connect with our community."

YOU ARE THE STORYTELLER
Residents of West Warwick and Westerly are especially urged to participate, but one need not be a resident of the particular town - just have a great town story to tell. Planning meetings and a workshop lead up to two days allocated for filming. During the planning meetings, participants discuss and choose the subjects and locations they want to include in the documentary about their town.

"This kind of collaborative group project invites residents to be more involved with Rhode Island PBS, and with each other," said Jodi Mesolella, project director for Our Town, and director of membership and special projects at Rhode Island PBS. "The content is decided exclusively by the participants. They pick what will be in the film. If someone has an idea for a story, please come to the planning meeting and share it. We're looking forward to seeing what West Warwick and Westerly decide to do."

WHAT TO EXPECT 
In each town, Rhode Island PBS recruits up to 20 to 25 volunteers with video cameras. For this project, there are no restrictions as to age or experience and there is no cost or compensation to participate. For those with a story to tell but no camera to capture it, Rhode Island PBS has a camera to lend by appointment and with a security deposit, which is fully refunded when the camera is returned.

"We will offer guidance, technical advice and support to our volunteers, but this is definitely their story as told by them in the community," said Nicole Muri, Our Town project producer. Video recorded by the volunteers will be edited together by Rhode Island PBS to create a one-hour film of each town.

The first planning meeting in West Warwick will be in March, with the technical workshop for the volunteer filmmakers planned for early April. The deadline for video submission will be mid-June.

Westerly's first town planning meeting will be in August, with the technical workshop and filming deadline expected in September.

Although dates for shooting footage will be set, videographers need not wait, and are encouraged to shoot footage of any relevant event or storyline anytime up to the deadline for video submission.

INFORMATION
For information about joining the Rhode Island PBS Our Town project, and for details about meetings as the dates approach, visit ripbs.org/our-town/home, or call Jodi Mesolella (project director) at 401-222-3636, extension 209, Nicole Muri (producer) at extension 225, or email ourtown @ ripbs.org.

Focusing on You: Results of Our First Focus Group

Focusing on You

We asked viewers to join us at Rhode Island PBS for a focus group to have a facilitated conversation about Rhode Island PBS's brand recognition and the station's value in our community.

We had a great turn-out and guests had a behind the scenes tour of A Lively Experiment. Below are some of the things they told us while at the Station. 

If you would like to be on the invitation list for our next Focus group, please call Diane at 401-222-3636 x 0. 

Why do you watch Rhode Island PBS?

Diversity, Arts and Entertainment. You see stuff you can't see anywhere else and it's free.  What could be better than that? Rhode Island PBS has enriched my life since I was like 5 years old.

I like it because there are things I can watch with my son that are not loaded with violence.

The programs just suit me. 

It's much, much different than commercial television and much better if you ask me.

How do you know that you are watching Rhode Island PBS?

I know that I am watching Rhode Island PBS because I see the bird logo in the right hand corner of my screen.

I don't know the difference between Rhode Island PBS and WGBH when I am watching.

I know that I am watching Rhode Island PBS because I don't have cable, and your station is the only PBS station that I can get free of charge.

Why do you watch Rhode Island PBS versus another PBS Station?

I like to watch programming in my state when I can to support the local businesses and stations.  However, I flip around to find the programming I want.

I'm for the little guy-for the smaller businesses, for the small stations and there are people out there, like me, who are going to support you.

What value does Rhode Island PBS bring to the community?

I'm interested in local programming.  It's about a sense of community and I learn more about Rhode Island.  You feel like you are part of something.  I'm not just saying that because I am here.

What do you know about the history and funding of Rhode Island PBS?

I don't know anything about it.

You are no longer getting as much money from the State of Rhode Island.

I like that you are now independent.

Where in the World is Wizbee?

Summer is here, and that means more outdoor activities with family and friends. WSBE Rhode Island PBS, your local public television station, invites you to take us with you where ever you go this summer.

You're probably asking yourself, 'How can I take my public TV station with me on vacation?'


It's easy, really - take Wizbee, the WSBE bird! And then tell us, "Where in the World is Wizbee?"


Wizbee, named for the station's call letters, WSBE, is ready to accompany you anywhere - to the beach, the park, the zoo, the museum, the backyard cook out - every where you are,  Wizbee's with you!


Simply print and cut out Wizbee, attach with tape or glue to a popsicle stick or tongue depressor, grab your camera, and Wizbee is ready for a little wing-flapping or to pose for a close-up. We promise Wizbee will be the perfect pal - quiet, polite, and patient... no air- or car-sickness, no drink stops or bathroom breaks, and you'll never hear that haunting back-seat question, 'Are we there yet?'  


We invite you to share with us Wizbee's adventures with you. Take a picture with Wizbee - don't forget to include yourself in the shot - and let us know, "Where in the World is Wizbee?" Hint: Wizbee is particularly fond of local Ocean State and Bay state locations but, hey, it's a big world - you decide! 


Wizbee will be out and about through Columbus Day, so feel free to update your fun as often as you'd like.  You can email your electronic pictures in jpeg format to us here. Please include your name, home city/town, and where in the world the picture was taken. A few sentences about Wizbee's and your experience are also welcome. : )


Follow this blog for updates about where Wizbee is spotted, and check us out on Facebook. Anywhere that's most convenient, post your pictures and "vacation log" of Wizbee's adventures. Imaginative pictures may be included in Wizbee's video scrapbook. You'll also be entered into random drawings throughout the summer for cool summer fun prizes. More details to follow... 

We give you the wings - how you fly is up to you! So, Where in the World is Wizbee?  Why, Wizbee's with you! From everyone at WSBE, your local public television station, have a fun and safe summer. 

Rhode Island PBS Spring Auction - just around the corner!

Have you watched the Rhode Island PBS Spring Auction Preview Show yet? If not, here is the rest of the schedule, in the final days leading up to the televised auction on Wednesday through Saturday, May 4 - 7, starting at 7 PM nightly.

Preview Show on WSBE Rhode Island PBS 

04/24/11 11:30 p.m.

04/27/11 8:00 p.m.

04/28/11 2:30 p.m.

04/29/11 12:30 a.m. 

04/30/11 1:00 p.m. 

Preview Show on WSBE Learn

04/22/11 10:00 p.m.                            

04/22/11 1:30 a.m.                           

04/22/11 5:30 a.m.                                

04/23/11 2:30 a.m.                              

04/23/11 5:00 a.m.                              

04/24/11 2:00 a.m.                                

04/24/11 9:00 p.m.                                

04/25/11 4:00 a.m.                                

04/26/11 1:00 a.m.                                

04/29/11 8:30 p.m.                                

04/29/11 10:30 p.m.                                

04/30/11 3:30 a.m.                                 

04/30/11 5:30 a.m.                                

05/01/11 12:30 a.m.

05/01/11 2:30 a.m. 

All items will only be sold by bidding online at the Rhode Island PBS Spring Auction Web site, including the 2011 Toyota Prius, courtesy of your New England Toyota Dealer! You can inform viewers without computer or Internet access that they can call in during the televised auction, and volunteers will happily  record and enter the bids. Of course, there's also something exciting about watching the fun and organized chaos that takes place during a live televised event, so join us even with your laptop at your side.

Online bidding started Monday and continues until the final virtual gavel falls on Saturday night.

Andy Williams and Celtic Thunder: Christmas Past, Christmas Presents, and Christmas Future

December is chock full of Christmas specials, including Christmas episodes of regular series. In the beginning of the month, to thank our loyal supporters and encourage other viewers to become new members, WSBE proudly presents a number of nostalgic and contemporary musical specials.

Why is membership so important? Because all of that terrific, unique programming you enjoy all year on WSBE (programming you will not see on other PBS stations) is only made possible by your financial support directly to WSBE. Donations to any other PBS station do not benefit WSBE. We are all independently owned and operated, no matter how close we seem geographically.

If you become a member in December, you get two thank-you gifts (hence the "Christmas Presents" in this blog's title). Keep one or both for yourself or give to someone else: Christmas Lights DVD and a gold-tone snowflake ornament from Adornment by Campany & Thornton Fine Jewelry in South Kingstown.

On Monday, December 6 at 7:30 P.M., join us live in the studio (that's always fun!) as we present memories of Christmas Past:
 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS: THE BEST OF THE ANDY WILLIAMS CHRISTMAS SHOWS features classic clips of various Christmas specials from The Andy Williams Show. Filling homes with seasonal cheer, the specials became a cherished holiday family tradition. The digitally re-mastered production numbers are complete with magnificent sets and costumes and a cast of singers, dancers, and skaters. Quintessential moments include Williams’s solos of “Silent Night” and “Ave Maria,” as well as performances with his brothers for “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and with the Osmonds for “Silver Bells.” Interviews with Williams, and Bobby and Donny Osmond are interwoven with the show clips.

If you miss the first broadcast, look for re-broadcasts on Thursday, December 9 at noon, and Friday, December 10 just after midnight, at 12:30 A.M.

As for Christmas Future? Well, with such youth among the members of Celtic Thunder, I figure fans can look forward to years of future Christmas specials from these performers. *smile*

The heart-warming new CELTIC THUNDER CHRISTMAS features holiday standards such as “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Silent Night” as well as a few specially-written originals, “Going Home For Christmas," “Christmas Morning Donegal” and “Our First Christmas Together." Filmed in Poughkeepsie, NY, in front of a live audience, Irishmen Damian McGinty, Keith Harkin, Paul Byrom, Ryan Kelly, and Scotsman George Donaldson of Celtic Thunder bring together their affinity for a great popular song with outstanding live performances, pay homage to cherished holiday favorites. The show is a holiday celebration for all the family, performed with Celtic Thunder magic. CELTIC THUNDER CHRISTMAS airs after HAPPY HOLIDAYS: THE BEST OF THE ANDY WILLIAMS CHRISTMAS SHOWS special: Monday, December 6 at 9 P.M., with on Thursday, December 9 at 1:30 P.M., Friday, December 10 at 2 A.M. and 8:30 P.M.

There's a New 'Big Bird' at Rhode Island PBS!

PROVIDENCE, RI – (November 22, 2010) – David W. Piccerelli of Barrington, RI, has been named president and chief executive officer of WSBE Rhode Island PBS. Michael B. Isaacs, chairperson of the Rhode Island Public Telecommunications Authority (RIPTA), made the announcement after the board voted to approve Piccerelli's selection at its meeting on November 18. The Authority is the governing body that owns and operates WSBE and holds the broadcast license for its two channels: Rhode Island PBS (digital 36.1) and Learn (36.2).

"The board's unanimous decision demonstrates our confidence in David’s leadership," Isaacs said. "David has the right combination of management skill and business acumen, as well as a clear appreciation and enthusiasm for the station's mission. It's that balance of qualities that impressed the board, and will serve the station's best interests now and into the future."

Mr. Piccerelli joined WSBE in 1998, and was promoted to vice-president and chief financial officer in 2003. He has been serving as acting president since March, when the station's former president, Robert Fish, left the position on extended medical leave. Mr. Fish passed away in July.

Isaacs said the vacancy was advertised nationally. The Authority's search committee screened some 24 applicants – including a number from within the PBS system - interviewed candidates and narrowed the field. Isaacs noted that Mr. Piccerelli's familiarity and experience in the station's day to day management were advantages, but Isaacs said the board was most impressed by Piccerelli's competence and commitment. "David successfully demonstrated to the search committee and the board that he understands the station's important role in education, in the community, and in delivering uniquely Rhode Island programming and services to the residents of our state."

"I am honored to have been chosen," said Piccerelli. "My two predecessors were local broadcasting legends, who left indelible marks on the station," he said, referring to Susan L. Farmer, WSBE's president for 17 years, and Bob Fish, who was a commercial radio and television executive before joining the station in 2005.

"The broadcast media landscape continues to change rapidly," observes Piccerelli, who shepherded the station's complex multi-year $3.8 million conversion from analog to full digital broadcasting in 2009. "WSBE has been Rhode Island's source for educational media for 43 years. But it's not just about great television anymore. It's about expanding the traditional definition of education and moving existing programs and services in new directions – on-air, online, and in the community."

Piccerelli said the station's greatest limitation has only ever been financial, not a lack of innovative ideas and talent among the staff. "We've faced many obstacles and challenges over the years, and have always emerged stronger and better than before. I see enormous opportunity for expanding educational media on various platforms. I'm excited to lead WSBE into this developing frontier, while preserving our distinctly local identity," Piccerelli said.

A Rhode Island native and Barrington resident, David W. Piccerelli holds a BS in Accounting from Bryant University. Mr. Piccerelli serves on a number of professional public broadcasting committees and associations. Prior to joining WSBE, Mr. Piccerelli was vice president and manager of the mergers and acquisitions division at Centerbank in Waterbury, Connecticut. His previous position was vice president and corporate secretary at Capital Strategies Group, Inc., in Providence.

Mr. Piccerelli is also an avid golfer, and serves as treasurer on the board of the Brad Faxon Junior Golf Foundation, and president of Rhode Island Country Club.

Meet Red Green on Saturday afternoon at Greenville Ace Hardware

Meet Red Green!

Saturday, July 24

2 PM - 4 PM

Greenville Hardware

633 Putnam Pike (Rt. 44), Greenville, RI

Stock up on 3M Duct Tape and other handyman supplies, get an autograph, and have your picture taken with Red (bring your camera for a photo)! Lots of fun "in store" for you. Plus, the store's air conditioned, so don't sweat it.

Still don't have tickets for Red Green's Wit and Wisdom Tour? What are you waiting for? The show's at 8 PM on Saturday, July 24, at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (VMA) in Downcity Providence. Call 401-421-ARTS (401-421-2787).

"Learn 360" - coming to a classroom near you

The Providence Journal education columnist Julia Steiny took a tour around Learn 360, the multimedia-rich library of on-demand videos and lesson plans being offered to Rhode Island schools through WSBE Rhode Island PBS Education Services.

Here are some highlights of Julia's experience with this new classroom tool. To read her full column, click this link to the original post on projo.com.

Today, any school that still offers classes in “technology” or “computer skills” is so 20th century. Technology is an integral part of everyday life and almost all jobs. As such, it should be embedded into every student’s regular lessons and assignments...

But embedding technology in all subjects is not typical throughout Rhode Island. It should be...

...So for years, [Rhode Island PBS] has arranged group discounts for the state’s schools, with companies that supply teachers with just such libraries of Web-based educational materials. When their contract with their last vendor became prohibitively expensive, [Rhode Island PBS] switched to a similar service, “Learn 360,” whose mission includes remaining affordable to schools in lean times...

Every quarter, Learn 360 uploads new material to its “content database.” Currently, they have more than 8,300 digital videos, as well as speeches, images, articles and audio files...

...Teachers can integrate materials into podcasts, presentations, activities and even quizzes and tests. The software will automatically grade any test that is true or false or multiple choice. The teacher can also post an essay prompt. Kids can do the work at school, in a computer lab at the library, or at home....

Impressively, most of the clips, songs and even the still shots are mapped against Rhode Island’s own standards, the Grade Level Expectations... Among other things, it’s an easy, interesting way to become familiar with our standards.

To experiment with this service, log on to Learn 360 for a 30-day free trial. Or get a password from your school, if it’s already part of the Learn 360 group.

School administrators can sign up for the 2010-2011 academic year, or get more information about Learn 360 by calling Dr. Maria Velasquez, Rhode Island PBS education director, at 401-222-3636, ext. 365. The cost is $500 per year for public schools with more than 200 students, and for private and parochial schools; it costs less for small public schools.