As Seen In the Reno Gazette Journal
The Public Broadcasting Service has recently been a target for reductions in federal funding. This should not be a surprise, as multiple studies have shown a more than 4-to-1 left-leaning bias in the PBS News Hour. Additionally, in 2023, a study found that congressional Republicans received 85% negative coverage on PBS’s flagship news program. This lack of balance in PBS’s news coverage is likely the cause of the defunding efforts.
Despite the overall support for PBS and the widely respected educational and cultural content, the cuts are likely. What does that mean for our local PBS station in Reno, and what can we do about it?
PBS Reno Is Not PBS National
PBS Reno is not PBS National. The national PBS news is less than 1% of the local PBS Reno broadcasting airtime. The remainder includes educational shows like “Sesame Street”, documentaries such as Ken Burns’ “The Civil War,” and cultural highlights like “Masterpiece Theatre.” Additionally, our PBS Reno offers extensive services and programs tailored to the needs of our local community.
Why Reno-Sparks Residents Should Support PBS Reno
Why Reno-Sparks residents should support PBS Reno: The content provided by our PBS Reno is nonpartisan and local. In addition to the educational and cultural programs mentioned above, the high-quality programming produced and delivered by PBS Reno to our community is valuable and deserves our support. Here are just a few examples:
- PBS Reno produces unique local shows, such as “Wild Nevada” and “artEffects,” featuring more than 170 segments on local artists.
- PBS Reno Kids, 24/7 non-commercial children’s programming; and PBS Reno Create, which focuses on cooking, travel, and hobbies.
- PBS Reno offers the Curiosity Classroom program, delivering 6,949 free in-school workshops in literacy, STEM, and robotics to 135,289 students in pre-K through 4th grade.
- PBS Reno organizes the annual Young Writers’ Contest for grades K–3, celebrating creativity through books, on-camera presentations, and a special event for winners.
- PBS Reno partners with Parent University, promotes Family Engagement Nights, and supports pre-K to kindergarten transition events.
PBS Reno Is A Vital Partner In Our Community
PBS Reno is also a vital partner in our community.
- PBS Reno partners with the Reno Phil, Classical Tahoe, Reno Chamber Orchestra, Reno Aces, UNR, TMCC, Western NV College, Children’s Cabinet, Food Bank, Boy Scouts, and dozens more to provide a voice and support for these organizations.
- PBS Reno provides local emergency and weather-related updates.
- PBS Reno has led the way with thousands of public service announcements encouraging families to ensure that their kids go to school — “Attendance Matters.”
To Maintain Our PBS Reno, We Must Fill the Federal Funding Gap
To maintain our PBS Reno, we must fill the federal funding gap. Fortunately, PBS Reno raises 83% of its $7.3 million operating budget locally. This leaves a 17% gap, or about $1.2 million, for the coming year. To retain the vital work PBS Reno does for our community and the more than 500,000 people locally who enjoy this free service, we all can do just a little more. Consider doubling your current support, or if you are not currently supporting PBS Reno, it may be time to step in and help.
By providing free educational resources, fostering creativity, and showcasing local talent, PBS Reno plays a crucial role in enriching the lives of residents in Reno-Sparks and the surrounding area. Supporting PBS Reno ensures the continuation of these impactful programs and services for the community. The difference between a good community and a great one is that everyone cares. Join me in caring about our local public broadcasting.
Mike Kazmierski is the executive director of Strengthen our Community.
Mike Kazmierski is the executive director of Strengthen our Community.
