**THE YEAR CLOSES, THE WORLD OPENS**
posted by Laura McKee
As 2010 draws to a close, I look back over the year at our many accomplishments as we step ahead into a bold new year. I like to think of these “accomplishments” as the return on your membership investment.
In an election year, AZPM was your trusted source that introduced you to many candidates and profiled the intricacies of every ballet proposition. Whether it was a local “In-Depth” segment on NPR, an interview on Arizona Illustrated, or a live debate — you knew AZPM was the place to turn for a candid exchange – giving you the resources you needed to make informed decisions.
We produced “Teachers’ Voices” on the radio as a part of Arizona Spotlight – highlighting a teacher, student, superintendent, business leader, elected official, or parent to capture the alchemy and professionalism of teaching. Classical KUAT-FM 90.5 brought you more community concerts than ever before, recording live performances around Southern Arizona and delivering them to you with the best seat in the house (or car).
AZPM began the 19th and final season of The Desert Speaks, brought you amazing science with WaveLengths and NOVA, honored veterans with Unforgettable: The Korean War, and delighted you with Great Performances, St. Paul Sunday, Masterpiece, Antiques Roadshow and many BritComs.
For youngsters, PBS-HD and PBS Kids premiered Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That, from the literary classics by Dr. Seuss. This series joined a stellar lineup of children’s programs already in our lineup including WordGirl, Curious George and of course, Sesame Street.
In the community, we brought Garrison Keillor and A Prairie Home Companion to Tucson for a live national broadcast, NPR’s Scott Simon to the Tucson Festival of Books (where we also featured Create TV in the Culinary Area), hosted library screenings with “Now Showing @ Your Library” and Independent Lens, and sponsored free children’s storytime at the UA Bookstore.
Our online presence is stronger than ever with a popular page on Facebook, news feeds on Twitter, and full length programs now provided on demand -- anytime and anywhere, with PlayPBS.
Many of these events lay the foundation for 2011 that will provide an increase in original production that work to deliver the best of Southern Arizona to you every day. As we implement our new strategic plan, your input is more important than ever. Please feel free to review our strategic plan here and give us your feedback.
While our accomplishments are gratifying, none of this would have been possible without your continued support. On behalf of all of us at AZPM, thank you. Please accept our very best wishes for the holiday season and in 2011.
Jack Gibson
