I am so proud of the work we are doing locally, especially in the area of local journalism. I'm sure you have heard our excellent reports on WHRV FM on important topics like the military, local government, education and the environment. Additionally, we've added other programs covering local issues, such as the new program Open Channel. Producers Gina Gambony, Jordan Christie and Barry Graham are crafting stories about the human experiences that make Hampton Roads such an interesting place. Be listening most Thursdays at 7:45 a.m. during Morning Edition and at 4:45 p.m. during All Things Considered. The stories are also available as a podcast at whro.org/openchannel.
Another excellent podcast you should listen to if you haven't already is The Secret War Of Willis Hodges. This investigative podcast uncovers previously unknown information about a network of free Black people who worked to help slaves escape from Princess Anne County in the years before the Civil War. It sheds new light on a figure of national importance from Virginia and describes the mechanics of the Underground Railroad in Hampton Roads. Visit whro.org/willishodges to binge all the episodes.
To continue producing local news content like the programs above, we are growing our newsroom. Local journalism has been disappearing from our region, but WHRO is perfectly poised to fill this critical community need. As the largest local media company in the market, with four TV stations and four radio stations, WHRO is already a trusted provider of in-depth news and cultural programming. Our reporters seek out the stories that impact you and your community. I'll be sharing more details of our newsroom expansion in the future, but keep an eye out as we post positions online for reporters and editors. We are seeking the best journalists in the region to add to our already outstanding news team. Your continued support of WHRO will help us ensure that we remain a source of high-quality, local journalism for years to come.
Another local offering that I'm excited to see return this year is the Out of the Box: Emerging Artist Series on Thursday nights at the Sandler Center. These unique after-work concerts are free and open to the public. Doors open for each performance at 6 p.m. Join Paul Shugrue to hear some of the region's best local artists. See the full lineup at whro.org/events.
Lastly, we have some great television programs lined up for this month. From Independent Lens comes Owned: A Tale of Two Americas, an exposé on how the American housing policy market has been manipulated for years in discriminatory ways. American Masters celebrates legendary singer Marian Anderson (February 8, 9 p.m.). And nature lovers will enjoy Penguins: Meet the Family, a unique celebration of one of Earth's most iconic and beloved birds, featuring all 17 species of penguins in footage for the first time ever (February 9, 8 p.m.) as well as American Horses, that explores the history of the uniquely American horse breeds that helped shape our nation (February 23, 8 p.m.).
It's an exciting time to be working in public media, and I'm so thankful for your continued support. Take care!
Bert Schmidt President & Chief Executive Officer