ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT LEGACY-FUNDED CONTENT & INITIATIVES
Cover Image Mark Strand and Mark Anthony, Manterach Memorial Mural by Cyrus M. Running July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 KSMQ, Lakeland PBS, PBS North, Pioneer PBS, Prairie Public, Twin Cities PBS
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The six stations of the Minnesota Public Television Association (MPTA) harness the power of media to document, promote, and preserve the arts, culture, and history of our local Minnesota communities. As community-owned public media licensees, our members and donors support the unique stories of our regions, creating a collective tapestry of Minnesota.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
President’s Message........................................................ 4 MPTA Impact Infographic............................................... 6 Awards & Nominations .................................................... 8
Pioneer PBS Appleton/Worthington/Fergus Falls 800-726-3178 • pioneer.org
Lakeland PBS Bemidji/Brainerd 800-292-0922 • lptv.org
Station Reports
KSMQ. ...................................................................... 10 Lakeland PBS........................................................ 30 PBS North.............................................................. 54 Pioneer PBS........................................................... 84 Prairie Public....................................................... 102 Twin Cities PBS................................................... 120
By the Numbers............................................................ 150
Prairie Public Moorhead/Crookston 800-359-6900 • prairiepublic.org
Twin Cities PBS Minneapolis/St. Paul 651-222-1717 • tpt.org
KSMQ Austin 800-658-2539 • ksmq.org
PBS North Duluth/Hibbing 218-788-2837 • pbsnorth.org
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Message from the President of the MPTA
Dear Legacy Committee and Department of Administration Members:
Thank you for your continued support of the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, and for the trust placed in the Minnesota Public Television Association, MPTA, to be thoughtful and careful stewards of these resources. We truly value the opportunity to honor the purpose of the fund and remain dedicated to using these investments in ways that serve and connect Minnesotans to their arts, culture, and history. The outcomes shared in this report reflect our ongoing commitment to this important work. Because of your support, Legacy-funded programming consistently delivers public value. After watching local arts, culture, and history programs on public television, 94% of viewers learned something new, 94% described the content as trustworthy, and nearly nine in ten said it was relevant to their lives. Viewers also reported feeling more connected to their communities, learning about perspectives different from their own, and acting locally as a result. This funding fuels economic development and creative opportunities across Minnesota. During the 2024–2025 cycle, these projects supported 30 full-time jobs and 108 freelance and temporary positions. Community members featured in Legacy-funded programs reported increased visibility, new professional opportunities, and growing audiences. In total, 876.5 hours of Legacy-funded content aired statewide, reaching millions of Minnesotans through broadcast, streaming, and digital platforms. Across the state, Legacy support allows stations to reflect the unique voices and histories of their regions, from immigrant success stories in southern Minnesota to honoring hometown veterans. The MPTA documented overlooked history, engaged children and families through educational outreach, captured everyday life across the Northland, and amplifyed Minnesota’s music and creative community through statewide partnerships. The quality and impact of this work is reflected in significant regional and national recognition, including multiple Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® nominations and wins, a James Beard Media Award, and Telly Awards. Legacy funding ensures Minnesota’s stories are told by Minnesotans, for Minnesotans, building trust, strengthening communities, and preserving our shared heritage. We are grateful for your stewardship and continued commitment to this vital public investment. On behalf of all of us of the MPTA, Lakeland PBS (Bemidji), Pioneer PBS (Granite Falls), Twin Cities PBS (St. Paul/Minneapolis), Prairie Public (Moorhead-Fargo), KSMQ-TV (Austin) and WDSE·WRPT (Duluth), thank you for an amazing year of documenting our great state of Minnesota.
With sincere appreciation,
William G. Strusinski Legislative Consultant bill@libbylawoffice.com
Patricia Mester President of the MPTA President & General Manager of PBS North pmester@wdse.org
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2024 - 2025
LEGACY FUNDING
30 fueled economic development 108 freelance and temporary jobs full-time jobs Among community members who were featured in Legacy-funded programs... 75% 71% 54%
“I am an artist. The community support of the arts is very important. PBS has done a fantastic job of bringing cultural awareness to the public.”
“I think these programs remind us of where we come from as a community, invite us to look around and see neighbors and places in a new light.” “I love learning more about the state I live in.”
fostered learning 94% l earned about something new related to arts, culture, or history.
After watching local arts, culture, and history shows on public television…
87 educational materials created
have seen increased interest in their work
have seen increased
have had new opportunities
“It’s local!! It’s about the people in my neighborhood.”
followers on social media
locally and nationally
e
876.5 5+ million extended statewide + beyond
8 million 130 online views
“The quality of programming produced by [my station] is exceptional. I know I can trust [my station] to offer thoughtful, factual programming.”
Minnesotans can access MPTA content via broadcast
hours of Legacy-funded content were broadcast on MPTA stations
hours of Legacy-funded content is available for streaming
served our state
strengthened community
Viewers said their station’s local arts, culture, and history programming was ...
92%
trustworthy 94% 89%
After watching local arts, culture, and history shows on public television...
relevant to their interests or personal experience
entertaining
89% 82% 88%
felt more connected to their community.
took some form of action in their community.
learned about an experience or perspective different than their own.
Data from the 2025 Legacy audience and participant surveys
mptalegacymedia.org
AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS 2024 - 2025
PBS North
Held in Minnesota: Untold WWII POW Stories 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Documentary Historical Jacob Pavek 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Entertainment – Short Form Content Kilty as Charged 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Informational/Instructional Making Space for Art 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Arts/Entertainment – Short Form Content Music is For Everyone-Ross Sutter 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Informational/Instructional No Boundaries 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Arts/Entertainment – Short Form Content Nordic Echoes 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Special Event Coverage Ryan Rumpca: Capturing the Northern Spirit 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Environment/Science Steel, Salt, Crash and Salvage 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Documentary Historical
The Heart of Art 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Arts/Entertainment – Short Form Content
Wounded 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Military – Short or Long Form Content
Cold War Secrets of Northern Minnesota 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Documentary – Historical Racing For Honor 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Magazine Program
Prairie Public
Twin Cities PBS
Andy Hall, Photographer 2025 Bronze Telly Award Winner General – Information
Broadcast Wars 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Documentary – Historical Broadcast Wars 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Editor – Short or Long Form Content Four Strangers 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Historical/Cultural/Nostalgia – Short Form Content
Pioneer PBS
Cyrus M. Running Mural 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Historical/Cultural/Nostalgia – Short Form Content It’s Never Left Me 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Military – Short or Long Form Content John Olesen: Glassblowing 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Arts/Entertainment – Short Form Content
A Life in Motion: The Alec Majerus Story 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Documentary A Life Lived by Faith-Del Theilke 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Historical/Cultural/Nostalgic – Long Form Content Africontigbo: A Legacy of Dance 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Arts/Entertainment – Long Form Content Anything But Brushes 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Arts/Entertainment Communicating Beauty 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Entertainment – Long Form Content Driven to Excellence 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Lifestyle – Short Form Content
Relish 2025 James Beard Media Award Winner Lifestyle Visual Media
Kristi Swee Kuder, Fiber Artist 2025 Silver Telly Award Winner General – Motivational & Inspiring
Remember the Magic 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Historical/Cultural/Nostalgia – Long Form Content Stage 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Director – Short or Long Form Content Stage: From the Fire Your Smith is Forged 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Winner Arts/Entertainment – Long Form Content
Little Italy: Family is Everything 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Historical/Cultural/Nostalgia – Short Form Content Struggle & Success: Women in the Military 2025 Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Nominee Military – Short or Long Form Content
Vicky Radel, Mixed Media Artist 2025 Bronze Telly Award Winner General – Miscellaneous
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KSMQ
KSMQ Est. 1971 • ksmq.org Austin
IMPACT STORY
KSMQ & Legacy Funding Document Immigrant Success in the Heartland
KSMQ’s documentary, Home in the Heartland , featured four immigrants from four different parts of the world. From Panama, Thailand, Ecuador, and West Africa, they currently represent the Austin area, St. Charles, and Winona, which they now call home. Immigrant success stories are a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals who seek new opportunities in unfamiliar lands. Their drive to build a better life for themselves and their families fuels entrepreneurial ventures, contributing significantly to economic growth. Immigrants also enrich society by bringing diverse perspectives, skills, and traditions, cultivating innovation and cultural exchange. The impact of our support and fostering of immigrants within our communities makes a difference.
Legacy funding empowers KSMQ to create meaningful content that features musicians, poets, and artists in our communities, along with historic sites, people, and things. KSMQ nurtures each unique idea to explore the possible content, enriching the viewing experiences for all residents.
“I like that they cover sites, people and stories of our area. Living in Rochester, I like to see what is going on in other [places in] southern Minnesota.” – MPTA Legacy Survey Respondent
Enlightening our Communities
Raising Awareness
Inspiring Digital Short Stories
KSMQ brings awareness about veterans experiencing homelessness in Rochester, following two veterans who suffer from PTSD and the organizations that are finding and building places where they have security and a place to call home.
KSMQ continues to reach our digital viewers via KSMQ+ stories that keep you up-to-date on the latest happenings in our communities. We deliver arts from the historic Paramount Theater, cultural heritage from the Hormel Historic Home featuring the 12th annual crafting event, and history of a seminary ruins restoration. We nurture and engage to grow our online audiences.
At KSMQ, we develop programs like Off 90 to inform and educate our viewers about the rich culture within their communities. From showcasing art with one of the last glass etchers in the area, to a historical breakfast nook in an old bank building, we continue to unveil the arts, history, and cultural heritage of our region.
Sammy (guest)
Fairy (guest)
“Hello! Our library is interested in finding a copy of ‘Home in the Heartland’ on DVD for our patrons to check out. Is it, or will it be, available for purchase anywhere? Thanks for the help!” – Jill Veerkamp – St. Charles Public Library
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STORIES OF VETERANS AND IMMIGRANTS
Coming Home: A New Start for Minnesota Veterans
Premiere Date: November 8, 2025 Format: 1 x 30-minute documentary
Stories of Veterans and Immigrants. HF 1999 Article 4 Sec. 2 Subd. 6 (e) Public Television. $5,000,000 the first year and $4,500,000 the second year are to the Minnesota Public Television Association for production and acquisition grants according to Minnesota Statutes, section 129D.18. Of the amount in the first year, $1,000,000 is for producing Minnesota military and veterans’ history stories and unique immigrant stories from around the state.
Description
This documentary highlights the mission of the Minnesota Council for Veterans (MACV) and its tireless work to end veteran homelessness, with a focus on recent efforts in Rochester and southeastern Minnesota. The work of Veterans Empowered is also featured as they strive to increase awareness and knowledge of the social impact of untreated PTSD. We follow two veterans whose lives have been changed through the commitment of these two programs and their team of passionate veterans’ advocates who share with us their story and journey to finally having a place to call home.
Home in the Heartland: Immigrant Success in Southern Minnesota
Premiere Date: October 20, 2025 Format: 1 x 60-minute documentary
Impact
Description
This documentary features the unique stories of four immigrants in southern Minnesota, highlighting their journeys, accomplishments and successes in starting a new life in the United States. They graciously share their ups and downs, trials and tribulations, and all of those elements that have led them to fulfilling their American dream.
This documentary brings to light the current homeless veterans in Rochester, MN. We are hopeful that more people will become aware of the needs of our veterans, and the relevance of this problem throughout the state. There are so many that don’t have a place to call home, so we spoke with a few agencies that assist in placing our veterans through various programs. We hope to provoke people to be more proactive in our communities to provide our veterans stability, a sense of belonging, and to give back to them what they so freely gave with their service. They are our family members and our friends, and we should honor, respect, and assist as needed.
Impact
Our goal for this documentary was to enlighten our audiences and their communities of the positive stories of immigration in our region, showcasing the courage, dedication, and success of individuals striving to become all they can be. We show how local business, colleges and organizations can contribute by learning about who they are, what they can bring and add to our region. We hope to encourage immigrants to follow in the footsteps of these four individuals and to inspire continued support and fostering of immigrants within our communities. Events & Engagement KSMQ held a program preview engagement at one of the featured guests’ college in Austin. There were at least 50 participants and we had an introduction of the guests and a Q&A following.
Col. Wayne from Vets Empowered
Minnesota Council for Veterans participant
Home in the Heartland
Crew of guests and film crew at Riverland college
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KSMQ
Off 90 | Episode 1603 | June 1, 2025 We visit the Montgomery National Golf Course to hear from the owner, Greg McKush, about the course’s history and its curious theming. Next we head to Albert Lea to hear from Kiven Lukes and Molly Grimmius about Albert Lea Civic Music and their upcoming season. Finally, we travel to Austin to hear about the origins of disc golf in the city from some long-time players. Off 90 | Episode 1604 | June 8 , 2025 We travel to Lyle and hear from Russell & Teresa Slowinski as they tell us about Horse’n Around, their business that brings horse-drawn conveyances and pony rides to the people of southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. Next, we travel to Owatonna and hear from Edna Ringhofer, executive director of Healthy Seniors of Steele County, about their annual event, “Dancing with the Steele County Stars.” Finally, we travel to Hayfield to visit Dandelion Naturals, and hear from founder Michelle Hamilton about the various soap and healthy living products they produce. Off 90 | Episode 1605 | June 15, 2025 We visit the Mower County Fair and hear about the St. Olaf Diner. We also visit the Austin Special Olympics swim team and hear about their recent successes in the world of swimming. And finally, we travel to Owatonna to learn about the upcoming Extravaganza at the Village of Yesteryear. Off 90 | Episode 1606 | June 22, 2025 We visit the Aurora Diner at the Steele County Free Fair. We also hear from author Andrew Wood about his father’s work on the G-suit, a technological advancement that is in use by Air Force pilots to this day. Off 90 | Episode 1607 | June 29, 2025 We visit the Southern Minnesota Museum of Natural History and talk with the curator, Jim Pollard, about the museum’s purpose and what folks can expect to see on display. Next, we travel to the Sweet Adelines regional competition in Rochester to hear from event coordinator April Horne about the history of the organization; a few of the participants also give us their take on the competition. Finally, we visit a meeting of the Austin Ladies Floral Club and learn about their history as one of the oldest ladies’ clubs in the country. Off 90 | Episode 1608 | July 6, 2025 We travel to Le Roy to learn about a small business growing garlic for sale. Then we head over to New Ulm to learn about the Grand Center for Arts and Culture. And finally, we take a trip to Lanesboro and visit the Commonweal Theatre.
Off 90 | Episode 1609 | July 13, 2025 We travel to Albert Lea for the Eddie Cochran Car Show & Music Festival and hear from Stephanie Kibler, executive director of the History Center of Freeborn County, about the event. Next, we head to Byron where we learn about a dying art form from Carl Miller, one of the last glass etchers in the United States. And finally, we visit the Preston Veterans Home and hear from some of the residents about their historic pasts. Off 90 | Episode 1610 | July 20, 2025 We travel to Albert Lea to visit Moms Bread Company, a local bakery specializing in sourdough. Next, we head to Winona to check out their annual Steamboat Days festival. And finally, we visit the Breakfast Barn in Millville which is located in a historic building. Off 90 | Episode 1611 | July 27, 2025 We travel to Kasson for the first Dodge County Fix-It Clinic. Then, we take a step back in time and revisit the Wasioja Civil War reenactment, featured in 2013. And finally, we check out another feature from the past, visiting Niagara Cave, which was featured in 2015. Off 90 | Episode 1612 | August 3, 2025 We learn about a statewide competition that has its roots in Austin, hearing from participants, organizers, and the son of the founder. We also travel to the Mankato area to learn about a master gardener living in the area and see some of her flowers. Off 90 | Episode 1613 | August 10, 2025 We travel to Rochester and discover an opera company bringing this cultural experience to southeastern Minnesota. Then we return to Austin, where we learn about a local restaurant that has been a fixture of the community for sixty years.
STATION REPORT
Off 90
Premiere Date: May 18, 2025 Format: 13 x 30-minute episodes Description Get ready to hit the road! We are excited to bring you the best in arts, history, and culture from around our region of this amazing state. Some of this season’s features: we showcase a local dance competition, the dying art of glass etching, and visit a few of the county fairs’ sit-down diners that still exist after many, many years. Each episode takes us somewhere off Interstate 90, to showcase all that southern Minnesota offers.
Impact Off 90 episodes feature different forms of history and art, and highlight some different cultural pieces this season. We continue to engage our viewers by offering unique stories of the people, places, and things in this area. We continue to strive to reach new audiences by visiting several areas of southeast Minnesota to represent all different cultural aspects from their communities. Off 90 airs on our main channel and the MN Channel. Online audiences can access via our Facebook and YouTube channel, as well as PBS Passport and other streaming sources. Off 90 continues to be our most popular program, with comments coming in via renewals, calls, emails, and hits on our social media sources.
Distribution & Reach
Platform
Reach (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025)
Broadcast Streaming
7 episodes broadcast | 8 hours broadcast
7 episodes available | 3 hours available | 3,663 streams
Social Media
7 posts | 6,686 video views | 350 engagements
Episodes Off 90 | Episode 1601 | May 18, 2025
We visit the Austin Acres, where we hear from Jaimie Timm, curator at Mower County Historical Society, informing us about a historical government program designed to bring subsistence homesteading to Austin. Next, we head downtown in Austin to Vintage Vixen, where the owner, Annette Beasley, shows us the artistry and what’s needed for permanent makeup; and lastly, we hear from blacksmith Martin Pansch, an aluminum foundry, and an organ maker all right here in southern Minnesota! Off 90 | Episode 1602 | May 25, 2025
Mathmasters
We visit the Sola Fide Observatory and learn from Hormel Nature Center Outreach Naturalist Kelly Bahl about its history, as well as some of the celestial objects visible through its telescope. Next, we head to Albert Lea and board the Pelican Breeze II with First Mate Nancy Griener for a cruise around Albert Lea Lake! Finally, we take a trip to New Ulm, where Ted Marti, president of the August Schell Brewing Co., gives us the story behind the iconic Minnesota brewery.
Dancing with the Stars
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KSMQ
R-Town | Episode 2306 | November 8, 2024 R-Talk opens this week’s show with the Rochester branch of NAACP Love Wins community empowerment initiative. R-Spotlight takes us to LTS Brewing to hear about their social events to attend and participate in. Next is the R-Calendar, which features some fun activities to attend for the week, and finally on the R-Future segment, RCTC presents us with their gallery exhibition and some thoughts from students on the importance of voting. R-Town | Episode 2307 | November 15, 2024 R-Talk brings us the Rochester Downtown Alliance, which is all about small business associations, covering 44 blocks of what’s happening “downtown” events. R-Spotlight heads to the Rochester Public Library to learn about the programs they have for kids and adults. Next is the R-Calendar, which features some fun activities to attend for the week, and finally on the R-Future segment, RCTC features their women’s basketball team and students share some of their Thanksgiving traditions. R-Town | Episode 2308 | November 22, 2024 R-Talk opens this episode with the Gift of Life Transplant House as they celebrate their 40th anniversary. R-Spotlight brings us to the James Krom Natural Images Art Museum Gallery in the Mayo Clinic subway under the Marriott hotel, featuring various types and styles of the art they exhibit and sell. Next is the R-Calendar which features some fun activities to attend for the week, and finally, on the R-Future segment, RCTC features The Hive, which is all about tabletop gaming on campus. R-Town | Episode 2309 | January 3, 2025 R-Talk visits with the Barbershop Talk and Social Services program, which is all about the black community and how they talk about sports, events, and the literacy gap, building relationships while getting a haircut and bonding with the barbers. They also donate new shoes to assist with “you look good, you feel good” attitude. R-Spotlight takes us to learn about the new Rochester Symphony director and her visions for upcoming performances. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the week, and finally, on the R-Future segment, RCTC presents the FAST program, which stands for Facility and Service Technology — the club created from the program assists with some of the low-income areas to do furnace tune-ups, etc. R-Town | Episode 2310 | January 10, 2025 This week we visit Game Haven, featuring the Castle Con convention, a gaming extravaganza at the
Chateau Theater on R-Talk and how game-playing is changing from old school board games. We celebrate the Canadian Honkers restaurant on R-Spotlight, on their 40th anniversary. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the week, and finally, on the R-Future segment, RCTC features some snippets from their choir concert and we learn about e-sports. R-Town | Episode 2311 | January 17, 2025 We featured the Experience Rochester program Restaurant Week, with more than 30 participating restaurants showcasing the dynamic dining scene. R-Spotlight takes us to the SPARK Children’s Museum, featuring their winter event of sock skating. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the week, and this week we bring back a Spotlight favorite, LTS Brewing Company, learning about their upcoming events. R-Town | Episode 2312 | January 24, 2025 We visit with the Rochester winner of the 2024 Virginia McKnight Binger Heart of Community Honor on R-Talk, which is all about celebrating seven everyday champions from across the state whose compassion and contributions serve as the heartbeat of our communities, inspiring others to join in creating a more caring and connected state. Next, R-Spotlight teaches us about the Downtown Cottages which features a couple who spent 4 years navigating permits and processes to make their tiny cottages, and were built to cater to Rochester patient visitors and their families — a reality. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the week, and the R-Future segment is on a student of RCTC who’s a bone marrow donator and learn about her journey.
R-Town Premiere Date: October 4, 2024 Format: 20 x 30-minute episodes
Description
As one of the economic engines of the KSMQ viewing area, Rochester is brimming with business, cultural, and historical significance. What is Rochester talking about? Join host Nicole Nfonoyim- Hara each week as we take a trip to “R-Town.” Each episode features some of the arts and galleries, spotlights on businesses and cultural heritages, historic buildings, and fun things to do while in Rochester. We also showcase BIPOC organizations and the important programs they offer in Rochester.
Impact
Rochester is constantly growing and changing and is very community focused. R-Town highlights all of the vibrant art, culture and history of Rochester, with our purpose to engage, educate, and inspire viewers by showcasing local talent, historical events, cultural landmarks, and artistic endeavors. We actively post each episode on our YouTube channel, Facebook, and also on PBS Passport and multiple streaming outlets. Our viewers and members share the episodes, post comments, and often provide recommendations on people they think should be featured. We also showcase the unique cultural (BIPOC) businesses and organizations that are growing and expanding in the Rochester community.
Distribution & Reach
Platform
Reach (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025)
Broadcast
20 episodes broadcast | 20 hours broadcast
Streaming
20 episodes available | 10 hours available | 1,626 streams
Social Media
20 posts | 6,859 video views | 82 engagements
Episodes R-Town | Episode 2301 | October 4, 2024
R-Town | Episode 2304 | October 25, 2024 This week on R-Town, we will feature 2024 candidate roundtable City Council discussions with council members at-large Randy Schubring & Shaun Palm. R-Town | Episode 2305 | November 1, 2024 R-Talk features Rochester Public Schools Referendum, featuring Dr. Kent Pelek and Kanika Couchene addressing the issues in studio. Next we travel to Peace United Church for this week’s R-Spotlight to check out a practice session of Dracula: A Rock Musical, from Once and Future Classics, a local community theater. Next is the R-Calendar, which features some fun activities to attend for the week and finally on the R-Future segment, RCTC presents us with the fall theater production and the RCTC Choir.
This week on R-Town, we will feature 2024 candidate roundtable City Council discussions with Ward 2’2-Nick Miller and Tripp Welch Ward 4’s-Andy Friederichs and Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick. R-Town | Episode 2302 | October 11, 2024 This week on R-Town, we will feature 2024 candidate roundtable City Council discussions with Ward 4’s-Andy Friederichs & Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick. R-Town | Episode 2303 | October 18, 2024 This week on R-Town, we will feature 2024 candidate roundtable City Council discussions with Ward 6 -Dan Doering & Mark Schleusner.
R-Town | Episode 2313 | January 31, 2025 R-Talk this week is all about the Oraculi mentorship program, a local STEM program that aims to remove barriers to access STEM education and to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and scholars. We head to St. James For R-Spotlight, we head to St. Host Nicole and guest
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KSMQ
In Our Midst
James Coffee House, which is featuring teen karaoke night. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the upcoming week and the R-Future segment is all about spring semester goals and HIVE supply food shelf overview. R-Town | Episode 2314 | February 7, 2025 R-Talk learns about Wren Writing, an app/digital platform to help writers finally finish their book projects, developed by a local entrepreneur and writer. Founder Alira Coffman joins us to share the inspiration behind the app (only 3% of people who set out to write a book actually finish it), her own life as a writer, obstacles writers face, and how she hopes her app can help. R-Spotlight took us to the Little Miss Sunshine Spa, which focuses on girls age 3-15 who want to be a princesses pampering them with manicures and pedicures. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the upcoming week and the R-Future segment features some students sharing their dream jobs after graduation and Pride Club activities. R-Town | Episode 2315 | February 14, 2025 The Sound of Gospel Music event is featured on R-Talk this week celebrating Black History Month, presented by NAACP. R-Spotlights visits with Gretel Quinones, who is a dance instructor, an artist, and a martial arts teacher. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the upcoming week. R-Town | Episode 2316 | February 21, 2025 We visit the History Center of Olmsted County and their new director of education and interim executive director to discuss the future of the History Center and upcoming programs under her leadership on R-Talk. R-Spotlight talks with the Salt and Light Partners program, which provides emotional and spiritual support to the first responders in our community and shares all about their upcoming Hearts & Heroes Gala event. R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the upcoming week, and the R-Future segment features the new RCTC Student Senators and the MOCSI (Male of Color Scholars Initiative), which is a support group for men of color. R-Town | Episode 2317 | March 21, 2025 We visit the Channel One Food Bank EPICURE: One Bite at a Time on R-Talk, with Jessica Sundal filling us in about it. Next, we learn about the local chapter of Dance/USA with Eric Hoyer, who leads the weekly free dance sessions, supported by the RDA (Rochester Downtown Alliance), featured on R-Spotlight.
R-Calendar features some fun activities to attend for the upcoming week between segments, and next we head to RCTC to get the latest on the physics show and talk about the women’s basketball championship tournament on R-Future. R-Town | Episode 2318 | March 28, 2025 On this week’s episode, Nicole visits with Kristin Mannix about the OAKS Scholarship program at RCTC, which offers scholarships to support students who overcome significant adversity to have the opportunity to pursue a college education. These scholarships are nominated by, selected by, and funded by the Rochester community. R-Spotlight brings us the story about a transformative (large) donation made to the Ronald McDonald House and we see this week’s things to do on the R-Calendar. R-Town | Episode 2319 | April 4, 2025 R-Talk focuses on the North Broadway Park and Ride project with Mike Collins regarding some construction projects in the downtown area. We visit with former food truck vendors Willie and Nancy Rauen, who finally secured a permanent location for Indigo Acai Bowls, fulfilling their dream. We also head to the Rochester Public Library to learn about the programs they have for kids and adults. Weekly things to do on the R-calendar finished this episode off. R-Town | Episode 2320 | April 11, 2025 Nicole chats with Rochester’ first poet laureate, and recipient of the NEA grant, Jean Prokott, who explains what this is and how it affects the readers of Rochester on R-Talk. Next, we head to the Rochester Civic Theater to visit with the new creative director, Lindsey Dudos Williams, getting her perspective and learning about the upcoming production season. Next, we get the latest happenings to go do for the week on R-Calendar, and finally we learn about Phi Theta Kappa at RCTC on R-Future.
Premiere Date: August 1, 2025 Format: 12 varied length interstitials
Description
KSMQ showcases the creative talents of SE Minnesota area residents. Artists, writers, poets, storytellers, and musicians appear in each interstitial segment to broadcast between regularly scheduled programs. They are also shared via Facebook and our YouTube channel. Impact We have a wide variety of local talent in SE Minnesota and are fortunate enough to be able to showcase them in our viewing area. The interstitials being broadcast and placed on social media has really broadened their reach, so others can experience some of this wonderful talent in our area. It also increases the artists’ exposure to more than just their communities, but to all of our viewing area. We do hear from our members and viewers when they send a note, an e-mail asking who the artist was, and where can they see them again, as well as the hits we get on our social media pages.
Episodes In Our Midst | Episode 101 Elsie Lou Christanson sings “Cowboy Sweetheart,” accompanied by a guitarist. In Our Midst | Episode 102 Kaleb Braun Shulz performs his original song “Nightingale.” In Our Midst | Episode 103 Kaleb Braun Shulz plays guitar and sings his original song “One Arm Free.” In Our Midst | Episode 104 Kaleb Braun Shulz performs his original song “Vanilla Candle.” In Our Midst | Episode 105 Kara Karels sings “The Way Home,” while playing the guitar to her original song. In Our Midst | Episode 106 Mal Murphy performs her original song “Jesus is My Neighbor.” In Our Midst | Episode 107 Mal Murphy plays the guitar and sings to her song “Sugar.” In Our Midst | Episode 108 Nate Boots performs his original song “What Will I Do.”
In Our Midst | Episode 109 Nate Boots sings his original song “Minneapolis.”
Guitarist accompanying Elsie Lou
Host Danielle and guest
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KSMQ
Impact
In Our Midst | Episode 110 Sarah Lysne, short-story author of “Joy of Hero.” Read by Lisa Deyo. In Our Midst | Episode 111 Sarah Lysne, short-story author of “Joy of Smile.” Read by Lisa Deyo. In Our Midst | Episode 112 Sarah Lysne, short-story author of “Joy of Saying Nothing.” Read by Lisa Deyo. In Our Midst | Episode 113 Sarah Lysne, author of short story “Joy of Poets and Poetry.” Read by Lisa Deyo. In Our Midst | Episode 114 Sue Radloff playing the violin of “In the Finnish Woods.” In Our Midst | Episode 115 Sue Radloff plays the violin of “Dan’s Old Time Waltz.” In Our Midst | Episode 116 Sue Radloff delights us playing the violin of “Devil’s Dream.” In Our Midst | Episode 117 Kyle Schweihs reads numerous stories/poems from the “Austin Tree Stories” program.
KSMQ continues to explore and learn about the online and streaming possibilities for our programming. We are developing online platforms and content to provide a greater resource outside of broadcasting alone, becoming more visible to our current viewers and new audiences who watch online. People are changing their viewing habits, and we are changing with them to provide more streaming and platforms to watch.
Distribution & Reach
Platform
Reach (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025)
Broadcast
1 episode broadcast | 1 hour broadcast
Streaming
3 episodes available | 3 hours available | 1,026 streams
Social Media
11 posts | 7,771 video views | 319 engagements
Events & Engagement
KSMQ+ Studio hosted author Sarah Stonich and the Austin Community Newcomers Club for refreshments and further discussion of her book “Fishing.”
Episodes Reading for Life | Episode 4001 | July 17, 2024 “The Unbearable Lightness of Being” by Milan Kundra was discussed.
KSMQ+ | Episode 3002 | August 5, 2024 Music affects our lives in many ways, but did you know it actually has healing qualities when applied in a therapeutic setting? Music really can have an impact on physical and mental health issues with music therapy programs like the one offered by MacPhail. We learn all about it in this episode. KSMQ+ | Episode 3003 | September 16, 2024 Hormel Hometown Celebration Concert-We share the magical experience of the Hormel Hometown Celebration Concert for those who couldn’t attend, and for those who just want to relive the experience. This community concert benefits the hometown food security project. It is a family-friendly event for everyone to come out and enjoy. KSMQ+ | Episode 3004 | October 21, 2024 We visited Windy Willow Farms near Northfield to capture some amazing images of fun-filled, agra- education in action at this unique tourist farm. It’s all about bridging the gap between rural and urban areas to get people back to the farm. Four generations deep in 4-H, agriculture and education go hand in hand for this family. It’s 25 acres of fun, education, and animals.
In Our Midst - Tree Stories
In Our Midst - Sarah and Lisa
Julie Clinefelter for Reading for Life
Digital Platform and Audience Development
Reading for Life | Episode 4002 | January 8, 2025 Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston was discussed. This stream was also edited for broadcast on 3/10/2025
Premiere Date: July 17, 2024 Format: 3 x 60-minute livestream events; 12 x digital-first stories of varied lengths
Description
Reading for Life | Episode 4003 | May 6, 2025 “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley was discussed.
KSMQ developed online platforms and content that provide greater visibility to primarily on- line audiences. Each of these formats are to bring value and perspective with the hopes of getting more people engaged in our social media platforms. For those who want to hear another perspective on their favorite novels, to shorter stories that feature some art, history, and cultural heritage that is entertaining as well, these multi-media platforms offer something different from broadcast to on-line experiences.
KSMQ+ | Episode 3001 | July 15, 2024 Austin’s flood mitigation plan was put to the test following a series of intense, persistent rainstorms throughout the week. We spoke with city officials and residents about the progress this flood mitigation plan has made since 2004.
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KSMQ
KSMQ+ | Episode 3005 | December 19, 2024 We recently attended the 12th annual crafting event known as “A Handmade Christmas” and showcased some of the glorious items. This is held at the Homel Historic Home to celebrate and feature items and the decorated home for tours this Holiday season. KSMQ+ | Episode 3006 | February 5, 2025 Main Street Pinball is a new pinball arcade in Austin and we were in the house opening night for all the fun, in case you missed it! Two brothers and two friends wanted to bring back the good old days when these arcades were so popular in the past. Even a few of the games that began the gaming era: Pac-Man, Guitar Hero and a few others! KSMQ+ | Episode 3007 | February 28, 2025 Author Sarah Stonich is being featured for her book “Fishing” at the Sweet Reads Book Store in Austin, where reading enthusiasts gathered. She is a native Minnesotan and really wanted to feature all of the behind the scenes people, like the resort owners, the food truck drivers, etc. to feature the “real” people. We learn about the Austin Newcomers Club as well.
believed to have developed the idea for his famous Wild West Show in Lanesboro. There are many activities going on throughout the weekend celebration. KSMQ+ | Episode 3010 | August 8, 2025 Celebrating the Mower County Fairground was a no- brainer, as its first fair was in 1884, deemed a huge success. The Mower County Historical Society was formed in 1947 at the fair by a group of 52 farmers, dedicated to preserving the county’s history. We are here to show the fun as well, had by all! KSMQ+ | Episode 3011 | August 3, 2025 We are at the Austin Artworks Festival talking with a co-chair of the event, which is now in its 13th year. It was located the first few years in the old power plant, then relocated to the heart of downtown. Each year the artist exhibits grow and this year there were 70 exhibiting artists showcasing their work. There are even some live making pieces. There’re family fun things to do, food trucks, and an art tent where people can create items for themselves. KSMQ+ | Episode 3012 | August 29, 2025 Today we are at a bike trail in Austin for the state- wide high school mountain bike race. The Minnesota Cycling Association started this in 2012, to get kids on bikes-building strong minds, strong bodies and strong character through cycling. They almost had to cancel this year’s season opener, due to 5 inches of rainfall that week. Volunteers stepped up to modify a course for their use, so it carried on as planned.
Music Specials
Premiere Date: December 19, 2024 Format: 1 x 60-minute special; 2 x 30-minute specials
Description KSMQ continues to bring you some classic Holiday favorites, as well as original music performed by various musicians to celebrate the season. From choirs to solo performances, bands and groups, each brings something special to make your holiday full of cheer. This is an Austin Christmas and also Christmas at Assisi. Next, we were able to capture some original music at a weekend festival in our area, showcasing their talents.
Impact Our hopes are to reach the viewers who are unable to attend public concerts, providing this opportunity to see their family members, or friends. We also want the artists to receive greater recognition for their talents and we will continue to support them by showcasing this with our audiences in this viewing area. This is also for those who might not have heard the classics, to connect them with some of that cultural heritage from the past.
Distribution & Reach
Platform
Reach (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025)
Broadcast Streaming
2 episodes broadcast | 15 hours broadcast
2 episodes available | 1.5 hours available | 792 streams
Social Media
2 posts | 1,167 video views | 90 engagements
Episodes An Austin Christmas 2024 | 30-minute special | December 19, 2024 Every Minnesota community is home to people with a love for music. KSMQ continues its tradition of ringing in the holiday cheer with seasonal favorites from local musicians, with the KSMQ studio all decked out in holiday decor to celebrate this music tradition. Christmas at Assisi 2024 | 60-minute special | December 19, 2024 After a four-year hiatus, KSMQ proudly returns to Lourdes Chapel at Assisi Heights to present the beloved holiday tradition. This year’s theme, “A Mother’s Joy,” beautifully blends holiday classics performed by the Chorale Arts Ensemble in this concert production to inspire and delight audiences. KSMQ Presents: Minnesota Original Music Festival | 30-minute special | November 2, 2025 KSMQ attended the Minnesota Music Festival in Mankato this summer to record local artists who were featuring their own creative original music at a selected park where people were able to attend throughout the weekend.
Paramount Theater
KSMQ+ | Episode 3008 | April 22, 2025 The historic Paramount Theater in Austin is finally being renovated for a larger space and better handicapped accessibility. The theater was built in 1929, being the first movie palace in Austin, with a small stage and orchestra pit. We stopped in to have a peek at how it’s all coming together. KSMQ+ | Episode 3009 | August 2, 2025 Buffalo Bill Days in Lanesboro was our first attempt at a livestream. It started out a little rough but came together nicely. This long-running celebration pays homage to the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody, who is
Local musicians performing for An Austin Christmas
Austin Mountain Bike Team competition
Musicians performing at the MOM festival
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REPORT ON GRANTS TO PUBLIC TELEVISION IN SFY25
REPORT ON USE OF FUNDS FOR SFY25
For Period: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
For Period: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
3.303 LEGISLATIVE COORDINATING COMMISSION; CREATION AND ORGANIZATION; STAFF; DUTIES.
129D.18 GRANTS TO PUBLIC TELEVISION
Subd. 10 As soon as practicable or by January 15 of the applicable fiscal year, whichever comes first, a recipient of a direct appropriation from a fund covered under this section shall submit the information required and, when applicable, compile and submit the same information for any grant recipient or other subrecipient of funding: (i) the name of the project and a project description;(ii) the name, telephone number, members of the board or equivalent governing body, and e-mail address of the funding recipient and, when applicable, the Web site address where the public can directly access detailed information on the recipient’s receipt and use of money for the project; (iii) the amount and source of funding, including the fiscal year of the appropriation; (iv) the amount and source of any additional funding or leverage; (v) the duration of the project; (vi) the number of full-time equivalents funded under the project. For the purposes of this item, “full-time equivalent” means a position directly attributed to the receipt of money from one or more of the funds covered under this section, calculated as the total number of hours planned for the position divided by 2,088; (vii) the direct expenses and administration costs of the project… (ix) the entity acting as the fiscal agent or administering agency and a point of contact for additional information.
Article 4 Sec. 7 Subd. 4. Reporting. A public station receiving funds appropriated under this section must report annually by January 15 to the commissioner, the Legislative Coordinating Commission, and the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house of representatives committees and divisions having jurisdiction over arts and cultural heritage policy and finance regarding how the previous year’s grant funds were expended. In addition to all information required of each recipient of money from the arts and cultural heritage fund under section 3.303, subdivision 10, the report must contain specific information for each program produced and broadcast, including the cost of production, the number of stations broadcasting the program, estimated viewership, the number of hours of legacy program content available for streaming on websites, and other related measures. If the programs produced include educational material, the public station must report on these efforts.
# of Stations Broadcasting Program
Hours Available for Streaming
Educational Materials Created
Estimated Viewership
Project
Format
3.303, Subd. 10 Reporting Items
Recipient phone number
507-460-0284
Off 90
13 x 30 minute episodes
2
10,349
5.5
-
Names of board members
See below
R-Town
26 x 30 minute episodes
1
8,485
13
-
Recipient email address
suzi.stone@ksmq.org
Music Specials
1 x 60 min; 2 x 30 min
1
1,959
1.5
-
Website
www.ksmq.org | www.mptalegacymedia.org
Digital Platform & Audience Development
12 x varied length; 3 x 60 min
1
6,138
3
-
Amount, source, and fiscal year of the appropriation
$492,563 FY25 Main Grant and Special Project
Amount and source of additional funds
In Our Midst
12 x varied length
1
-
1.5
-
Duration of projects
7/1/2024 – 6/30/2025
Fiscal agent or administering agency
Department of Administration
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25
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