JOSEPH H. WILLIAMS TALLGRASS PRAIRIE PRESERVE
PG 04 PG 05 Executive Director Letter COO Letter
PG 06 PG 08 2024 By The Numbers History Of OETA
PG 09 PG 10 Mission • Vision • Values Statewide Value, Services & Impact
PG 12
14
Value: Excellence Value: Community Focus
PG 22 PG 28 Value: Education Values: Creativity • Diversity • Integrity PG 38
42 Value: Collaboration Budget
Dear Oklahomans,
As I reflect on 2024, I am filled with gratitude and pride. This year has been one of growth, innovation, and connection for OETA. As Oklahoma’s trusted public television network, we remain committed to our mission of informing, inspiring, and connecting communities across all 77 counties with high-quality educational programming and outreach initiatives.
Since joining OETA, it has been the capstone of my career to work alongside a dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of Oklahomans. Together, we have strengthened OETA’s foundation, modernized its physical and digital infrastructure, and expanded our reach to ensure access to essential programming and emergency services statewide.
Public television holds a unique and vital role in education, public safety, and civic engagement. I have seen firsthand how OETA’s programming helps young learners build strong foundations, delivers critical information during crises, and fosters lifelong learning for all. Knowing that our work impacts lives deeply has made my journey here immensely fulfilling.
As I prepare to retire in March 2025, I look back on my time at OETA with immense pride. Being the first woman to lead America’s most-watched PBS station has been an honor and a privilege. I am confident that OETA is well-positioned for the future, and I look forward to seeing it continue to thrive under new leadership.
Thank you for your unwavering support of OETA. Together, we have created something truly remarkable—an institution that connects, educates, and enriches the lives of all Oklahomans. I hope you will continue to champion this incredible organization for generations to come.
With deepest gratitude, Polly Anderson Executive Director, OETA
Dear Oklahomans,
At OETA, fiscal responsibility is at the heart of everything we do. In 2024, we carefully stewarded our resources to ensure that every dollar spent supported our mission to provide high-quality, accessible programming and services across the state. From leveraging smart vendor negotiations to completing critical upgrades, we maximized the impact of public and private funding.
This year, OETA successfully began the $3 million transmitter upgrade project, ensuring enhanced reliability and reach for years to come. We’ve also increased operational efficiency through strategic partnerships and cost-saving initiatives, allowing us to expand community programs without compromising quality.
Thank you for your trust and investment in OETA. Together, we’re building a sustainable future for public media in Oklahoma.
Sincerely,
Shawn Black Chief Operating Officer, OETA
7th
Most-watched PBS Station In The Nation
3000+ Oklahomans Attended OETA Community Events
5 Heartland Emmy Awards Won For Original Programming
100+ Early Childhood Education Providers Reached Through PBS KIDS EdCamps
Consistently Ranked Above The National Average In Both Whole Day And Primetime
129 Episodes of New Local Content Produced
93,361 New Users
41,510 Returning Users PBS Learning Media 2024
STATE REPTILE OF OKLAHOMA COLLARED LIZARD (MOUNTAIN BOOMER)
67.5 Million PBS KIDS Streams
1,405 Parents Across 8 Counties Benefited From Ready To Learn 2024 Initiatives
60+ Families Benefitted from 9 Library Partnerships Delivering Family and Community Learning Workshops 25% Growth For Digital Odyssey Subscriber Base
35,040 Hours Of Programming Delivered
800+ Children and Families Engaged In Educational workshops
10K Downloads of OETA Movie Club Podcast
Since its founding in 1953, the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA) has served as Oklahoma’s trusted source for educational and cultural programming. Created by visionary state legislation, OETA became the nation’s first state-sponsored educational television network. This bold move marked Oklahoma as a pioneer in public broadcasting, setting a precedent for the power of television to educate and connect communities.
OETA first aired on April 13, 1956, becoming the 20th educational television station in the U.S. and the second in the Southwest. Initially based at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, its programming consisted of 20 hours per week, featuring courses for school credit in partnership with the State Department of Education. With the addition of a Tulsa station in 1959 and expanded facilities in Oklahoma City by 1974, OETA became a cornerstone of public education and culture across the state.
In 1969, OETA became a proud member of PBS, gaining access to a rich variety of national programming while continuing to produce impactful local content. Over the years, OETA brought cherished programs like Sesame Street, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Masterpiece Theatre, and award-winning local productions like Oklahoma Passage into homes across the state.
By the 1980s, OETA was the most-watched statewide public television network in the nation, offering programming that informed, inspired, and entertained. Innovations continued with the launch of digital, high-definition broadcasts in 2003, allowing for expanded services and educational initiatives.
Today, OETA is the 7th most-watched PBS station in the nation and is supported by public appropriations, viewer pledges, and charitable giving. As a leader in public broadcasting, OETA continues to honor its proud legacy while embracing the future of public media.
OETA provides essential educational content and services that inform, inspire and connect Oklahomans to ideas and information that enrich our quality of life.
OETA will help create more knowledgeable, civically engaged, and productive citizens of Oklahoma.
Education
Encourage lifelong learning with continuous, equal access to quality content.
Community Focus
Serve and be accountable to Oklahomans.
Creativity
Encourage imagination, innovation and expression.
Excellence
Achieve the best quality results and be effective.
Integrity
Adhere to the highest standards of conduct, performance and fairness.
Diversity
Be inclusive in our workforce, services, and content.
Collaboration
Work with others to help Oklahomans thrive.
For over 70 years, OETA has been a vital part of Oklahoma, connecting and enriching communities through trusted educational programming, public media, and essential services. As the 7th most-watched PBS member station in the nation, more than 650,000 viewers tune into OETA on a weekly basis across all 77 counties.
From 2019 through 2024, OETA was the highest-rated PBS station in the nation. In 2022, we ranked fourth, and in 2023, we climbed to third. Most recently, in 2024, OETA proudly remained in the top 10, ranking as the 7th highest-rated PBS station in the country.
OETA delivers more than 35,000 hours of educational, cultural, and informational programming annually, including beloved shows like Sesame Street, NOVA, and Oklahoma News Report. The network also produces award-winning local series such as Back in Time and Gallery America, celebrating Oklahoma’s history and culture. In 2024, OETA engaged over 800 children and families through educational workshops and distributed thousands of free resources to support early learning.
OETA’s programming preserves and promotes Oklahoma’s heritage while addressing critical issues. The Black Frontier Towns series shed light on the history of Oklahoma’s 13 all-Black towns, reaching audiences statewide and sparking community discussions. The Ready to Learn initiative benefited over 1,400 parents and educators, while Oklahoma News Report delivered vital coverage of legislative updates and state news.
OETA reaches even the most remote areas of the state through its 18 transmitters, offering free over-theair broadcasts to ensure access for everyone, regardless of income or internet availability. Through PBS WARN (Warning, Alert, Response Network), OETA helps deliver Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs)—including severe weather warnings and AMBER alerts—straight to your mobile device, keeping you informed during critical situations.
Its digital platforms, such as the PBS App streaming service, PBS KIDS App, and website live streaming of OETA, PBS KIDS, World, Create, and NHK-WORLD Japan extend accessibility, allowing audiences to enjoy educational and cultural content anytime, anywhere.
PBS LearningMedia provides educators with a vast library of free, standardsaligned resources, including videos, lesson plans, and interactive tools, enhancing classroom learning and ensuring equitable access to high-quality educational materials statewide. And PBS KIDS delivers trusted, curriculumbased programming that supports early childhood development, fostering literacy, critical thinking, and socialemotional skills for children across all 77 Oklahoma counties.
OETA has demonstrated a strong commitment to engaging with Oklahomans through a variety of platforms, from growing viewership and interactive social media presence to hosting impactful community events.
In fiscal year 2024, OETA received $3 million in one-time funding to upgrade our network of transmitters. Thanks to smart vendor negotiations and bulk upgrade pricing, OETA is replacing all 14 low-power transmitters and all four high-powered transmitters across the state. This work is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2025, and will significantly improve the quality, reliability, and reach of our broadcasts.
In 2024, OETA hosted events attended by more than 3,000 guests, from documentary screenings to familyfocused educational activities. By actively listening to the needs and interests of the public, OETA is able to provide valuable resources and create high-quality inperson experiences that inform, inspire, and foster meaningful connections. This dedication ensures that OETA remains a vital resource for Oklahomans, strengthening relationships across the state while responding to the diverse needs of its audience.
From educational programming to historical storytelling and vital services, OETA remains an essential resource, fulfilling its mission to inform, inspire, and connect all Oklahomans.
Ways to Watch: Over-the-air via digital antenna, Cox Cable, DirecTV, Dish Network, AT&T, and other cable providers. Stream Anytime at OETA.tv/live, PBS App, PBS KIDS App, Spectrum digital cable, DirecTV Stream, YouTube TV, Local Now, Hulu + Live TV, Prime Video.
Channels: OETA, WORLD, Create, PBS KIDS, NHK-WORLD Japan
2024 marked a year of incredible recognition for OETA, with multiple productions earning prestigious accolades at the Heartland Regional Emmy Awards. These awards celebrate the best in local television, and OETA took home several honors for outstanding work.
Gallery America: The Deonna Marie Experience earned an Emmy for its powerful storytelling. The special chronicled the life of world-renowned opera singer Deonna Marie, who overcame a challenging childhood of neglect, abuse, and addiction to achieve musical success. Her inspiring journey of resilience and triumph was lauded for its emotional depth and impact.
Gallery America: Bobby Cornelson also won an Emmy, celebrating the quirky and beloved story of Bobby Cornelson, an Oklahoma artist whose spontaneous creation of “Joan Jett 4 Prez” on his garage became a roadside landmark. This feature captured the heart and humor of Oklahoma’s creative spirit.
Back In Time: Digging The Wagon Road was another standout, winning an Emmy for its exploration of Oklahoma’s rich history through the lens of amateur archaeologist Art Peters, who has spent decades uncovering remnants of the pioneer wagon road.
On the digital front, Aquí en Oklahoma, OETA’s Spanish-language series hosted by Luis Rendón, earned recognition
for its valuable contributions to local journalism, offering an important perspective on the state’s history, culture, and economy for Spanishspeaking Oklahomans.
Black Frontier Towns earned accolades for its in-depth exploration of Oklahoma’s historically Black towns, offering a rich and necessary narrative often overlooked in mainstream media.
Additionally, Oklahoma News Report’s Steve Shaw was inducted into his High School Hall of Fame, and Jason Doyle received the PRSA Clarus Award, further solidifying OETA’s commitment to excellence both on and off the screen.
OETA plays a crucial role in ensuring that emergency alerts reach all Oklahomans through PBS WARN (Warning, Alert, Response Network). This system delivers Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs), such as severe weather warnings and AMBER alerts, directly to mobile devices, ensuring that critical information is available in real-time.
OETA’s infrastructure ensures that, in case of disruptions like cyberattacks or internet failures, PBS WARN is a backup to deliver life-saving messages through FEMA, the National Weather Service, and local public safety departments.
PBS WARN covers Oklahoma and parts of Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri, demonstrating the power of public television to protect communities during emergencies. This system ensures that no corner of the region is left out when seconds matter most.
OETA’s extensive transmitter network surpasses the reach of commercial stations, guaranteeing that all Oklahomans, especially those in rural areas, receive critical emergency alerts via PBS WARN.
In 2023, OETA expanded its mission by introducing a Community Engagement Coordinator to strengthen relationships statewide and increase awareness of its educational and cultural resources. This role focused on fostering connections, hosting in-person events, and engaging families with public media.
Throughout 2023-24, the coordinator led diverse community events—workshops, panel discussions, screenings, and family gatherings—bringing OETA’s programming to life. In 2024, more than 3,000 participants had engaged with these initiatives, spanning urban and rural areas.
By taking public media beyond the screen, OETA continues bridging content and community impact, ensuring lifelong learning and cultural enrichment for all.
A successful screening event at the Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore attracted 113 attendees, engaging them in a lively discussion about Rogers’ enduring legacy. The event inspired conversations about incorporating his impactful story into local high school curriculums.
This Oklahoma City event honored female artists in the Western genre with an art show and panel discussion, drawing 59 attendees and engaging over 4,600 people on social media, celebrating creativity and contributions in Western art and storytelling.
An event in Oklahoma City focused on the Oklahoma poetry scene, featuring screenings of episodes about local poets Shaun Perkins and Barry Zimmerman. It attracted 46 attendees and generated strong engagement through social media and email promotions.
A partnership with the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Duncan brought Western-themed events, performances, and Back In Time screenings to the public, engaging families and providing an immersive experience in Oklahoma’s history.
Held at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum in Guthrie, this premiere screening attracted 89 attendees and included a thrilling reenactment, followed by a panel discussion on Oklahoma’s Western history.
OETA partnered with the Oklahoma City Zoo for a nature-filled adventure featuring PBS KIDS’ Nature Cat. Held at the newly remodeled Love’s Pachyderm building in Expedition Africa, the event welcomed 2,150 attendees who met Nature Cat, took photos, and enjoyed nature-themed crafts. Families explored the zoo’s exhibits, learning about conservation and wildlife. This free event was a great success, fostering learning and outdoor exploration.
Thank you so much to our wonderful friends at OETA and PBS KIDS for the very special screening of their new show, “Carl the Collector!” We love the show and can’t wait to see what happens next!
OETA partnered with Special Care for a meaningful event promoting inclusion and kindness. A crowd of 150 students with and without special needs, along with teachers and parents, gathered for a screening of Carl The Collector, a show teaching empathy and creativity.
OETA hosted a hands-on educational event at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum, where 75 middle school students explored aerospace careers through expert-led presentations and interactive sessions with 18 vendors. This initiative, part of OETA’s American Graduate program, highlighted career paths in aviation and helped students utilize the ICAP tool for future career planning.
I want to express my gratitude for the aviation career expo you put together for us. I was impressed with how thoroughly it was planned, and how everything worked together to create an engaging, educational, and inspiring experience. The panel discussions, interactive booths, open access to the museum and bingo game kept my students talking for days. They came away with new insights, excitement about aviation careers, and memories that will stay with them for years to come.
– Noel Suggs - Jenks Middle School Teacher
OETA and the Oklahoma Historical Society hosted a special screening of Back In Time: Haunted Heritage at the Oklahoma History Center. Just in time for Halloween, attendees enjoyed eerie tales from Oklahoma’s past, followed by a panel discussion featuring experts on folklore and paranormal activity. The free event drew strong community interest.
American Graduate is a longstanding public media initiative launched in 2011 to support young people in obtaining high school diplomas. Over time, it has expanded to include career exploration and workforce readiness efforts. OETA participated in the latest iteration, American Graduate: Jobs Explained, which highlights in-demand industries through live events and social media campaigns designed to encourage youth to pursue related career pathways.
Building on this foundation, OETA hosted a Career Exploration event aligned with Oklahoma’s workforce development goals. Featuring 18 aerospace industry leaders, the event engaged over 70 eighth graders, helping them complete their Individual Career Academic Plans (ICAP) and providing early exposure to one of the state’s fastest-growing industries. These efforts underscore OETA’s commitment to preparing Oklahoma’s youth for careers that drive economic growth and strengthen the state’s future workforce.
To support workforce preparation, OETA introduced an innovative model to enhance students’ experiences while exploring their career interests. This model provided rising high school freshmen with a visual roadmap tailored to the aerospace and aviation industry, encompassing:
• Job prospects and career pathways
• Financial aid resources
• Industry leadership opportunities
• Relevant educational institutions
• Social connections essential for success
The roadmap was designed to align with the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s Individual Career Academic Plan (ICAP) requirements, equipping students with tools to plan their future effectively.
By combining this career exploration tool with interactive live events, OETA empowered students to connect with opportunities in a dynamic field, ensuring they are better prepared for academic and professional success.
PBS LearningMedia serves as a comprehensive repository of educational resources, leveraging PBS’s vast library of shows, documentaries, and more. From 2019 – 2021, OETA grew platform users from 11,00 to 196,000. In 2024, the platform’s online presence grew by 37%, reflecting its increasing value to Oklahoma’s educators. Recent data highlights strong engagement with 93,361 new users, 41,510 returnees, and an average session duration of 4 minutes and 22 seconds, underscoring its role in dynamic, accessible education.
The PBS KIDS EdCamp plays a pivotal role in building strong relationships with Oklahoma’s early childhood community. In 2024, this innovative “unconference model” training reached over 100 early childhood education (ECE) providers across Oklahoma. Among surveyed participants, 96% reported gaining valuable knowledge to apply in their childcare homes or centers.
A notable highlight of these events was the introduction of a breakout room for native Spanish speakers, fostering collaboration and learning in a languageaffirming environment. This approach minimized barriers and encouraged greater participation. Partnerships with the Thrive Network expanded the program’s reach to educators in highneed areas, while ongoing collaborations with the Oklahoma Association for the Education of Young Children (OKAEYC) ensured the sustainability of these efforts. PBS KIDS EdCamps are now a recurring feature of both networks, underscoring their success and impact.
OETA Education also collaborates with libraries and organizations like the United Way and YMCA to provide enriching learning experiences for children and families. In 2024, OETA partnered with nine libraries to deliver Family and Community Learning (FCL) workshops across Oklahoma. These workshops have flourished, particularly in the southeast region of the state, benefiting over 60 families with activities centered on literacy, science inquiry, and the engineering design process.
FCL workshops utilize PBS KIDS programming to create unique learning opportunities where multigenerational families can learn, play, and collaborate. This approach fosters stronger community connections and instills a lifelong love of learning and confidence in participants. Through the FCL Cohort, OETA empowers libraries by providing educational resources, a proven learning model, and ongoing technical support to expand their capacity for future workshops. Over 75% of librarian facilitators reported that their involvement enabled them to offer new and improved programming in their communities, while 84% of surveyed parents said they would recommend OETA workshops to a friend.
In addition to workshops, OETA Education prioritizes direct community engagement. In 2024, the department participated in various events statewide, offering takehome activity kits, hands-on science experiments at local concerts, and valuable resources for new parents and children with special needs. These efforts reached over 800 children and families, underscoring OETA’s commitment to delivering engaging and impactful educational resources.
I appreciate your effort to teach and inform Oklahoma’s children and community through TV and this workshop.
-Ms. Anaya,
Mom of 3
OETA, through ESSER funding, partnered with Millwood Arts Academy to deliver Art Club, an afterschool and summer arts program addressing educational disparities worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Building on OETA’s Gallery America series, the program engaged 70 students in visual art, dance, music, and drama/theater, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Students connected personal experiences to their artistic projects, culminating in school-wide galleries and performances. Art Club provided a supportive space for self-expression and personal growth. Teachers and partners consistently highlighted the program’s transformative impact on students and school culture, emphasizing its role in fostering creativity, and positive connections.
OETA recognizes the importance of partnerships in expanding the reach and impact of its programs. By collaborating with state agencies, community organizations, and local networks, OETA ensures its initiatives address the diverse needs of Oklahoma residents. Key partnerships include the Oklahoma Department of Libraries, Oklahoma Department of Health, and the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, which enhance access to educational materials, and community-centered programming that address public health determinants.
Regional collaborations, such as with the Southern Oklahoma Library System, bring literacy and STEM workshops to underserved areas, while the Thrive Network supports home-based childcare providers with essential training. Partnerships with food companies further ensure Family and Community Learning workshops meet families’ basic needs, allowing participants to focus on learning. Committed to serving all 77 counties, OETA aims to expand its reach to support children, families, and educators statewide.
OETA is proud to create original programming that reflects Oklahoma’s unique history, culture, and stories, all made possible by the generous support of our viewers. Programs like Oklahoma News Report provide in-depth coverage of critical issues affecting communities statewide, while Gallery America highlights the vibrant arts and culture scene in Oklahoma, and Back in Time brings history to life through compelling storytelling.
OETA’s digital programs, such as the OETA Movie Club Podcast, delve into cinematic history, while Aquí en Oklahoma spotlights stories for the state’s Hispanic community. These programs align with OETA’s mission to inform, inspire, and connect Oklahomans by offering high-quality, educational, and entertaining content that resonates with our diverse communities. Viewer contributions ensure we can continue producing these impactful series for generations to come.
The Puppet Lady Oklahoma puppeteer
Joan McMillan opens the doors to her Eufaula playhouse, sharing her love for marionettes and her innovative use of historical puppets to teach Oklahoma history to students.
Romp: Become the Poem
Join Gallery America for an antiques road trip across Oklahoma, where we visit estate sales, quirky antique stores, and meet passionate collectors, like Daniel Mathis, whose home is a museum of treasures.
Meet Tulsa-based artist Megan Wimberley, who founded the Cowgirl Artists of America to highlight women in Western art. Wimberley’s striking paintings are just as bold as the colors she uses to capture the spirit of the American West.
In Locust Grove, Oklahoma, discover the Rural Oklahoma Museum of Poetry (ROMP), one of only two museums in the U.S. dedicated to poetry. Shaun Perkins’ passion for poetry shines through in her creation of this unique, interactive museum experience.
Mike Larsen: Why We Dance
Mike Larsen, a Chickasaw artist, reflects on his heritage and his journey to becoming one of the most respected contemporary artists in Oklahoma, using his work to celebrate his roots and his tribe’s history.
LAKE HEFNER LIGHTHOUSE
Unity in Color: The Artful Life of a New Mother
Ebony Iman Dallas’ powerful art blends her Somali and African heritage while exploring social justice, resilience, and unity. As a new mother, her work draws on the history of the Tulsa Race Massacre to inspire change and understanding.
Mason Drumm: Frame by Frame
Meet Mason Drumm, a stop-motion animator who took his childhood love for flipbooks and turned it into a thriving career. From national brands to TV networks, Mason’s work is all about bringing art to life, one frame at a time.
Multi-Sensory: My Name Is ‘Z’ Zonly Looman from Edmond is a true Renaissance man, weaving together his native heritage, pop art, and expressionism into his diverse body of work. His artistic endeavors also support global charities, including his work with the UN to provide housing for those in need.
Oklahoma’s beloved Will Rogers—known for his wit, wisdom, and charm— becomes the star of this episode, which explores how the “favorite son” became a media pioneer and trusted figure across the globe.
The Three Guardsmen
Meet the three legendary U.S. Marshals— Bill Tilghman, Heck Thomas, and Chris Madsen—who tamed Oklahoma and Indian Territory, battling criminals and paving the way for settlers in the Wild West. Their most famous confrontation is remembered as the biggest gun battle in the history of the West.
Haunted Heritage
Get ready for some spooky fun as Back in Time takes you on a journey to Oklahoma’s most haunted sites. From the eerie Spook Light to the whispering trees of the Parallel Forest and the ghostly presence at the Overholser Mansion in Oklahoma City, this episode explores the state’s rich (and chilling) folklore.
Oklahoma News Report, OETA’s award-winning, 60-minute weekly news program, delivers in-depth coverage of stories impacting Oklahomans. Each episode features five to six-minute segments on critical issues, including politics, education, agriculture, and the economy. During legislative sessions, a dedicated reporter provides comprehensive state Capitol coverage, detailing decisions shaping life across Oklahoma.
A hallmark of the program is the InDepth segment, a 15-minute exploration of major social topics influencing the state’s future. Featuring expert guests, these discussions tackle pressing matters like healthcare reform, education, climate change, and economic development, offering viewers nuanced insights and diverse perspectives.
Recently, Oklahoma News Report made headlines with a heartwarming story about an Oklahoma hotdog business that went viral. The segment—”Oklahoma Hotdog Business Still Booming After Photo of Owner Waiting by Door Goes Viral”— celebrated the dedication of a local entrepreneur. The story captivated audiences beyond the state, generating 96.8K hours of watch time on digital platforms. This powerful example of local storytelling led to a surge in business, proving the farreaching impact of compelling journalism.
The program’s digital reach continues to grow. In 2024 Oklahoma News Report earned 2,254 new YouTube subscribers and amassed 2.9 million views. Its 340 uploads collected 41.8K likes, 6,388 shares, and 3,146 comments, reflecting vibrant viewer engagement.
Additionally, Oklahoma News Report ranks among Tulsa’s top-rated Friday night programs, regularly placing in the local Top 10 at 7 p.m. This strong viewership highlights its connection with audiences seeking in-depth, thoughtful reporting.
In fact, ONR has consistently ranked at the top, including:
• July 5: #1 – The top and only local show in the Top 10
• June 21: #2 – A standout local program
• June 14: #2 – Another strong showing in the local rankings
• May 10: #1 – The #1 program of the night!
• April 26: #2 – A steady presence as a local program in the rankings
Combining quality journalism, engaging discussions, and a robust digital presence, Oklahoma News Report informs, inspires, and connects the Sooner State, celebrating triumphs and uncovering truths that matter most.
OETA is redefining digital engagement with a diverse array of initiatives that cater to every kind of content lover. Whether you’re a podcast enthusiast, a digital nomad, or a movie buff, OETA has something to spark your interest. From compelling series to unique cultural explorations, our digital offerings connect viewers to the heart of Oklahoma in new and exciting ways.
AQUÍ EN OKLAHOMA - OETA’s award-winning Digital First series, offers an engaging and insightful look at life in the Sooner State for its Spanish-speaking residents. Hosted by Venezuelan immigrant Luis Rendón, the series provides a deep dive into Oklahoma’s history, culture, and attractions— ensuring that the state’s largest minority group feels more connected to their home. Presented in Spanish with English subtitles, the series explores unique Oklahoma experiences, from the Catfish Noodling Tournament in Pauls Valley to the artistic vision of Native American artist Yolanda White Antelope. The show also spotlights educational opportunities like the OKCine Youth Film Institute, empowering Hispanic students through cinematography. With its rich storytelling and inclusive approach, Aquí en Oklahoma makes the state’s diverse heritage accessible to all.
BLACK FRONTIER TOWNS In February 2023, the Oklahoma News Report launched a year-long series spotlighting Oklahoma’s 13 historic Black towns, founded between 1865 and 1920. Airing monthly, each segment explored their rich history and legacy of resilience. The series concluded in February 2024, but its impact continues—Education and MarComm teams are developing Library Screening Kits and PBS LearningMedia lesson plans to preserve these stories.
DOWNTOWN TULSA
MOVIE CLUB PODCAST - Since its debut in 2021, the OETA Movie Club Podcast has become a must-listen for film lovers, offering an irresistible mix of classic movie deep dives and insider trivia. Hosted by the dynamic duo Robert Burch and Jeff Morava, the podcast takes fans behind the scenes of the beloved OETA Movie Club—a Saturday night tradition in Oklahoma for over 30 years. With 145 episodes and counting, the show dives deep into the classic films featured every week, unveiling little-known facts and fun anecdotes that only Robert Burch, with his encyclopedic movie knowledge, could uncover. In 2024, the podcast hit a milestone of 10,000 downloads, cementing its place as a fan favorite.
DIGITAL ODYSSEY - In 2022, OETA launched a digital version of its members-only magazine, Odyssey, offering interactive and engaging content, reducing paper use, and expanding its subscriber base to nearly 6,000 in 2024.
DIGITAL NEWSLETTER - OETA’s weekly digital newsletter connects with nearly 70,000 subscribers, delivering programming updates and encouraging greater engagement. Recent redesigns and campaigns have significantly boosted viewership, including promoting Think Wednesday and Sunday Dramas.
Through its digital platforms, OETA continues to connect Oklahomans with the heart of their state, offering educational content, community stories, and entertainment that resonates far beyond the television screen.
OETA continues to play a central role in producing and showcasing programs that reflect Oklahoma’s diverse culture, history, and people. From landmark documentaries to educational programming, OETA’s special productions highlight the stories that shape the state while expanding its reach to national audiences through strategic collaborations and broadcast partnerships.
OETA’s influence stretches far beyond Oklahoma, with powerful productions that resonate on a national level.
Tulsa Race Massacre: 100 Years Later aired in 8 states across 21 markets, reaching 40 channels and 96 telecasts. This documentary marks a century since the tragic Tulsa Race Massacre, offering a sobering reflection on racial violence, the scars it left behind, and the ongoing journey toward healing. Through intimate interviews and expert analysis, the program underscores the importance of acknowledgment, education, and justice in the pursuit of racial equity.
Back in Time: The Osage Murders – The Reign of Terror explores one of the darkest chapters in Oklahoma’s history—the systematic murders of the Osage people in the 1920s, driven by greed and corruption. The gripping documentary delves into the FBI’s investigation and the haunting aftermath of the killings, shedding light on a story of resilience and the pursuit of justice that remains relevant today.
In a more nostalgic vein, Where the Buffalo Roam aired in Illinois, bringing the story of the American buffalo to life. The documentary highlights the buffalo’s cultural significance to Native American tribes, its near extinction due to overhunting, and ongoing efforts to preserve these majestic creatures. It offers a unique perspective on the American West, connecting past and present with reverence and education.
The Lawrence Welk Show, one of the most iconic musical variety shows in television history, continues to be a national favorite. OETA’s repackaging and distribution of each episode brought this wholesome entertainment to 34 states, 119 markets, and 262 channels, with a staggering 14,181 telecasts. The show, which originally aired from 1951 to 1982, continues to enchant audiences with its champagne music, dance performances, and wide-ranging musical genres.
In addition to its national collaborations, OETA is deeply committed to showcasing independent content that captures the essence of Oklahoma’s history, culture, and people.
Battle of Honey Springs is a powerful documentary that immerses viewers in one of the most significant—and diverse—battles of the American Civil War.
Chilocco: Through the Years takes a poignant look at the Chilocco Indian Agricultural School.
Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence supports academic excellence in Oklahoma’s public schools.
Oklahoma Hall of Fame honors the state’s most accomplished individuals.
OETA’s special productions reflect its commitment to sharing the stories that matter to Oklahomans, continuing to educate, inspire, and celebrate the rich tapestry of life in Oklahoma, while extending its reach to a national audience eager to learn more about the state’s people, history, and culture.
OETA’s national channels continue to bring diverse programming to Oklahomans, offering unique perspectives on the world around us. Whether it’s exploring international news, diving into DIY projects, or discovering global cultures, OETA connects viewers with a wide range of informative and entertaining content.
WORLD Channel is all about humanizing the stories behind the headlines. With a focus on complex, thought-provoking issues, this channel brings viewers powerful documentaries and fact-based programming that shine a light on the conflicts, movements, and cultures that shape our world.
If you love “do-it-yourself” programming, Create is your go-to channel. Offering a variety of beloved public television series and specials from American Public Television, NETA, PBS, and other local public television stations across the country, Create TV covers everything from food and travel to home and garden, arts and crafts, and fitness.
In 2024, OETA expanded its programming lineup to include NHK WORLD-JAPAN, the English-language international service from Japan’s public broadcaster. With a focus on both Japanese and Asian perspectives, the channel brings an exciting range of programming, from hourly live international news from Tokyo and more than 30 bureaus worldwide to features on culture, food, travel, science, history, and technology.
With these national channels, OETA continues to bring a diverse array of programming to Oklahoma’s viewers.
2024 OPERATING EXPENSES
$9,860,944
Total Expenses
