Happy Leap Year! Depending on which set of folklore you go by, this is either an especially lucky or a particularly unlucky time. I tend toward optimism, so I’m going with lucky. If you need a little persuading, let me share with you some things I think might make us all feel a bit luckier this month.
First, for our little viewers, there’s a new addition to the weekday lineup. Lyla in the Loop debuts on February 5. The little ones in your life are going to love Lyla and her quirky sidekick Stu, who use creativity and critical thinking to solve the everyday problems that pop up around the neighborhood. This new series continues the longstanding tradition of PBS KIDS programs that entertain, teach, and respect children, while fulfilling our promise to parents that content will always be age-appropriate and noncommercial.
And later this month, we’ll celebrate gospel music. First, on February 9, enjoy a one-hour musical special with some of the biggest names in gospel, pop, and R&B. The following week, Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. brings us GOSPEL, a four-hour exploration and celebration of the rich history of the genre. Few musical traditions are as emotional evocative, exuding so much joy, grief, wisdom, and hope. Tune in for the interviews with dozens of faith leaders, singers, and scholars on the history and influence of the genre, and stay for the powerful musical performances.
But the thing that will have me feeling the luckiest this Leap Day is…you. Your support makes every day brighter for me, and all the other OPT viewers across our region. Thank you!
Rachel Knight
General Manager