Tuesday, November 29, 2011: Was it really 50 years ago that KERA went on air pioneering the type of programming that’s the mainstay of today’s Discovery Channel, History Channel and so many others?
It was indeed a time when black-and-white TV was being replaced by its colorful cousin with the help of such shows as “Bonanza.” It was a time when Eddie Barker at KRLD-CH. 4 was at the main face in local television news. It was a time before Dallas would be in the world spotlight for the death of a president.
But the late Ralph Rogers, who was the PBS Board of Governors’ first chairman, and a young Bob Wilson, who became KERA’s first chief exec, felt television could be more than a source of entertainment. It could provide intelligent programming for all ages.
To celebrate its 50 years of bringing that vision into reality, Event Chair Melissa Fetter and Honorary Chair Ruth Altshuler have arranged for an evening of cocktails, a seated dinner and “an exciting multimedia presentation showcasing the station’s history with appearances by Jim Lehrer, Cokie Roberts and Scott Simon.” It will take place at the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre with Bob Ray Sanders and Krys Boyd serving as co-hosts.
Only regret? Wish Ralph were still here to enjoy his 50-year-old baby.
Jonnie England says
I love that you used that photo of Ralph Rodgers and Big Bird! What an amazing visionary man he was. And like you, I wish he was still around to see his baby celebrate 50 years. Thanks for a great memory of an unforgettable human being.