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 Show #1119Return to index of stories... |
This show is 26:26. the rundown indicates an intro we taped to leadin to the Buster program. that was on a separate tape. |
| Hello/Intro Return to index of stories... |
Hello, I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this special edition of New Hampshire Outlook. In the next hour we're going to take a look at the controversy surrounding an episode of the children's animated series "Postcards from Buster." The controversy has raised issues of parental discretion, diversity, the role of Public Television and the First Amendment. Buster is seen here on NHPTV and other public television stations around the country. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy involves one program, not the whole series. The U-S Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode in which Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. PBS pulled the program from the lineup. But the producers made it available to stations around the country. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. That's why it's airing tonight. We'll be back in half an hour to talk about the controversy. You may want to set your recorders if you haven't already. It's time for Sugartime and Postcards from Buster. |
| Intro Buster Return to index of stories... |
Hello again everyone. I'm Beth Carroll. What is suitable television viewing for children? That's one of the questions being raised around an episode of the PBS animated children's series "Postcards from Buster." Buster is seen here on NHPTV and other public television stations around the country. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy began after it was learned Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. The U-S Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode and PBS pulled the program from the series lineup. But the producer made the program available to stations around the country. Each individual station made choices based on local needs. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. |
| Intro Parents Return to index of stories... |
Joining us now to talk about some of the parental concerns. Heidi Webster, Elementary School Principal of Atkinson Academy, and a parent. Stephanie Osborne--- who is a mother of three from Dover. |
| Parental Discretion Return to index of stories... |
A big issue here is Parental Discretion. Having seen this program, would you RECOMMEND other parents show it to their children? Why or why not? ### |
| FS safe haven Return to index of stories... |
New Hampshire Public Television received hundreds of e-mails and phone calls from viewers on this issue. Most were in favor of airing the episode. However, One viewer wrote, "PBS has been our only true "safe haven" on television for our children. My child has no idea what homosexuality is and would be truly confused by a family with two mommies. Also, learning about it for the first time from one of his favorite TV shows is NOT the appropriate venue for this delicate topic." Q STEPHANIE: do you agree? Q HEIDI: How does a parent choose what is "AGE-Appropriate subject matter for their child? ## |
| FS diversity Return to index of stories... |
Here's another viewer comment regarding diversity. "Postcards from Buster presents a variety of differing belief systems. The belief that children can be raised in a loving, stable family of two mothers should not be treated differently. Not showing the episode of "Sugartime!" would betray the mission of showcasing diversity by rendering invisible an entire class of people." That sentiment was echoed by many, including a member of a two mom household who said she'd like her daughter to have opportunities to see families like her own. Q HEIDI: Did the episode-- as billed -- promote diversity? Q STEPHANIE: Some aruge that Children already know there are families of all shapes, sizes and flavors. That's the way the world is, and to pretend otherwise is a disservice to them. You don't prescribe to that philosophy? |
| FS trust Return to index of stories... |
One viewer wrote to NHPTV saying: "In promoting Buster the Bunny, you have departed the pedestal of trust upon which I had placed channel 11. Showing unorthodox lifestyles is not what I call "family entertainment." Q Stephanie: What is acceptable family entertainment? Q Heidi: The show's target audience is elementary school-age children. Some critics contend HOMOSEXUALITY is NOT appropriate subject matter for children's programming. |
| FS Who Decides 1 Return to index of stories... |
Many parents wrote to us saying if anything, the Buster episode is a "Teachable moment" for them. As one viewer put it: "I don't believe it should be left to the Secretary of Education to decide what is or is not appropriate for our children to see on television. While not everybody approves of same sex couples raising children, showing that scenario on television should not, in and of itself, be regarded as offensive. If anything, it gives parents a basis for a discussion with their children of whatever their points of view are on that issue." Q Agree or Disagree? |
| FS not notice Return to index of stories... |
We asked a Merrimack psychologist for his opinion on the program's impact on children. He went right to the source and did an unscientific survey of young viewers. Dr. Ben Garber showed the program to fifteen, 5-year olds. He followed up with some basic questions about what they saw and remembered. He also asked them to draw some pictures. He says the children projected their own experiences onto the program. All enjoyed the episode and none mentioned the fact the children had two moms. His finding echo the comments of one mom who said: "My children are young enough, frankly, that I doubt they would have noticed anything especially "different" about the episode. And isn't that the point?" Q Heidi: is that the point? Are adults bringing too much emotion to this issue? |
| FS overhyped Return to index of stories... |
Is too much being made of the Buster controversy? One viewer says emphatically, yes: "the criticism of it is greatly overhyped. Besides, children need to understand that other children live in diverse family situations and that that is part of the world that they are growing up in." Q Stephanie: How do you plan to teach your children about diversity? |
| Intro Keene State Return to index of stories... |
Heidi Webster and Stephanie Osbourne thanks for sharing your perspective. "The Sugartime episode" -- has certainly been a lightening rod. One mother told us the Buster controversy goes beyond parental discretion. She said: "People have a right to choose whether to see this episode or not. It is not your role to be censor!" Many viewers wrote to us concerned about the ROLE of public television and the first amendment. That happens to be a subject of study for students on several college campuses this semester. Phil Vaughn brings us that story from Keene State College. |
| Intro First Return to index of stories... |
Joining us now to talk about the first amendment: Professor Mark Timney from Keene State College and Professor Kristen D. Nevious, Director of the Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication at Franklin Pierce College. Welcome. Q PROF NEVIOUS: Let's start with you. Do you or your students see the Buster controversy as a First Amendment issue? |
| First Amendment Return to index of stories... |
We received a lot of viewer e-mail on the airing of the Buster episode. Here's one that speaks to the issue of free speech: "Ms. Spelling is certainly entitled to her view and opinions, and she is also entitled to make them public. But I do NOT believe that she is entitled to force PBS to support her viewpoint with everything that is broadcast. If it comes to that, then there is no democracy, and there is no free speech." Q Professor TIMNEY: Is this a free speech issue? Q PROF NEVIOUS: If the US Department of Education is FUNDING a program or series, can they not decide what IS and is NOT appropriate? Q PROF TIMNEY: Is this a case of The Dept of Ed using the "POWER of the government PURSE" to influence content in public broadcasting programs?? Q BETH: Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants was attacked as promoting homosexuality in a video promoting tolerance. It's different because NICKELODEON is a commercial network. ** PROF NEVIOUS: Do CRITICS wield more Power over PBS -- since it receives a part of its operating budget from TAX dollars?? Q PROF TIMNEY: Gay characters are increasingly visible on prime-time television, but are still TABOO in children's programming. ** WHY is there such an uproar when it comes to the issue of Sexual Identity? ** The Buster controversy over 2 Lesbian Couples SURFACED even before the program aired. Q PROF NEVIOUS: Some say: Janet Jackson's breast is so-o-o-o 2004. The latest weapon in the culture wars is an animated bunny. What does that say about our society? Q Will this national dialogue that the Buster controversy sparked -- be a good thing in the long run??? Q The F-C-C's standards on INDECENCY kicked-in after the Janet Jackson breast-baring debacle at the Superbowl. Penalties and fines were hiked as a result. ** Safe to say these standards have made broadcasters and producers nervous? Q PROF NEVIOUS: Does Spelling letter violate freedom of expression -- as some have suggested? ### PROF. NEVIOUS AND TIMNEY THANKS Q Has TV gone too far? More than half of Americans believe the FCC should be stricter in controlling sex and violence on television, Q Q It generated so much controversy -- it seemed like a great opportunity to air the show at a time when families could tape it -- and start a dialogue on the issue that sparked the controversy? Spellings complaint: public funds are being used to promote alternative lifestyles |
| Web Pointer Return to index of stories... |
If you'd like to share your opinion about the controversy surrounding the Buster episode just log onto our website, nhptv.org/outlook and tell us what's on your mind. |
| Goodnight Return to index of stories... |
That concludes our program. Thanks for watching. I'm Beth Carroll. We'll see you next time. |
| Tonight 10:00 Return to index of stories... |
Tonight on New Hampshire Outlook the controversy over an episode of "Postcards from Buster." Watch the program and hear from parents and educators beginning tonight at 10:00 only on New Hampshire Public Television. |
| wednesday at 10 Return to index of stories... |
Tonight on New Hampshire Outlook What civil and military leaders from Russia learned about emergency preparedness and homeland security during a visit to the state. Tonight at 10:00 only on New Hampshire Public Television. |
| Buster Setup Return to index of stories... |
Buster is seen here on NHPTV and other public television stations around the country. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy began after it was learned Buster visits a young girl in Vermont with two moms. The U-S Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the series and PBS pulled the program from the lineup. But the program still existed and stations around the country were faced with a choice whether or not to air it. NHPTV wanted parents to choose and so aired the episode here on Tuesday night. |
| key: family/ marriage Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 03/22/05 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:46 minutes Hello, I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this special edition of New Hampshire Outlook. In the next hour we're going to take a look at the controversy surrounding an episode of the children's animated series "Postcards from Buster." The controversy has raised issues of parental discretion, diversity, the role of Public Television and the First Amendment. Buster is seen here on NHPTV and other public television stations around the country. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy involves one program, not the whole series. The U.S. Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode in which Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. PBS pulled the program from the lineup. But the producers made it available to stations around the country. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy began after it was learned Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. The U.S. Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode and PBS pulled the program from the series lineup. But the producer made the program available to stations around the country. Each individual station made choices based on local needs. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. Joining us now to talk about some of the parental concerns. Heidi Webster, Elementary School Principal of Atkinson Academy, and a parent. Stephanie Osborne who is a mother of three from Dover PRODUCER/REPORTER: NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Heidi Webster\Atkinson Academy Principal, Stephanie Osborne\Paren |
| key: media Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 03/22/05 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:46 minutes Hello, I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this special edition of New Hampshire Outlook. In the next hour we're going to take a look at the controversy surrounding an episode of the children's animated series "Postcards from Buster." The controversy has raised issues of parental discretion, diversity, the role of Public Television and the First Amendment. Buster is seen here on NHPTV and other public television stations around the country. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy involves one program, not the whole series. The U.S. Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode in which Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. PBS pulled the program from the lineup. But the producers made it available to stations around the country. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy began after it was learned Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. The U.S. Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode and PBS pulled the program from the series lineup. But the producer made the program available to stations around the country. Each individual station made choices based on local needs. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. Joining us now to talk about some of the parental concerns. Heidi Webster, Elementary School Principal of Atkinson Academy, and a parent. Stephanie Osborne who is a mother of three from Dover PRODUCER/REPORTER: NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Heidi Webster\Atkinson Academy Principal, Stephanie Osborne\Paren |
| key: Youth Return to index of stories... |
NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTLOOK Air Date/Time: 03/22/05 HOST: Beth Carroll Length: 26:46 minutes Hello, I'm Beth Carroll. Welcome to this special edition of New Hampshire Outlook. In the next hour we're going to take a look at the controversy surrounding an episode of the children's animated series "Postcards from Buster." The controversy has raised issues of parental discretion, diversity, the role of Public Television and the First Amendment. Buster is seen here on NHPTV and other public television stations around the country. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy involves one program, not the whole series. The U.S. Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode in which Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. PBS pulled the program from the lineup. But the producers made it available to stations around the country. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. The program features an animated rabbit who travels America with his father and meets young people from all walks of life. The controversy began after it was learned Buster visits a young girl with two moms in Vermont. The U.S. Secretary of Education threatened to pull funding of the episode and PBS pulled the program from the series lineup. But the producer made the program available to stations around the country. Each individual station made choices based on local needs. NHPTV decided parents should have an opportunity to watch the episode and decide for themselves whether or not to show it to their children. Joining us now to talk about some of the parental concerns. Heidi Webster, Elementary School Principal of Atkinson Academy, and a parent. Stephanie Osborne who is a mother of three from Dover PRODUCER/REPORTER: NAME OF PARTICIPANTS: Heidi Webster\Atkinson Academy Principal, Stephanie Osborne\Paren |
| key: UNH Return to index of stories... |
No UNH stories |
| WEB PROMO Return to index of stories... |
Tonight on New Hampshire Outlook. . Tonight at 10pm on New Hampshire Public Television. |
| Post Show Log Return to index of stories... |
Tuesday, March 22, 2005: We pretaped this program Monday. We started late because there were a large number of graphics that needed to be proofed & changed. We also had two different in-studio conversations. We stopped the show briefly to swap guests in/out of the studio. We had to correct one error within the program after the show. We also had to tape the leadin to the Buster program. We taped the promo and finished everything shortly after 6:30pm. Since we taped this show Monday we pretaped a "summer" show tonight. We started around 4:30pm. The tape ran out that we used to record on so we had to stop. Becky will have to marry them all together now in edit. DIRECTOR LOG: The only thing I remember from that day we pretaped April 15th show early since we taped Tuesday show on Monday. And the record tape was too short. It was 15 minutes long. So we did the show in pieces and recut it together on Wednesday. It is fine |
| Voice Overs Return to index of stories... |
Tuesday March 22 Coming up, the controversy surrounding an episode of the children's show "Postcards from Buster." I'm BC New Hampshire Outlook is next. Wednesday March 23 Coming Up. Civil and military leaders from Russia talk homeland security in New Hampshire. I"M BC NH Outlook is Next. Thursday March 24 Coming Up: "Made in NH" -- with a look at Rod's Pawz, a local producer of dog treats. I'm BC -- New Hampshire Outlook is next. Friday March 25 Coming up: Journalists from around the state discuss the week's top stories. New Hampshire Outlook is next. |
| web briefs Return to index of stories... |
Coming up on NH Outlook March 21 - 25, 2005 Monday, March 21 NH Outlook will not be seen tonight so that NHPTV may bring you its final evening of special membership drive programs. Please watch and pledge your support to keep programs like NH Outlook going strong. Tuesday, March 22 Postcards from Buster: Sugartime! In this special one-hour edition, NH Outlook takes a look at the much-discussed children's animated series "Postcards from Buster." The controversy has raised issues of parental discretion, diversity, the role of Public Television and the First Amendment. We will begin the hour by viewing the episode so parents can make up their own minds about whether to allow their children to watch. Then, Beth Carroll will be joined in studio by parents and educators to discuss the controversy. www.pbskids.org/buster/ Wednesday, March 23 Homeland Security Tour A few weeks after President Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged greater cooperation between the United States and Russia, a high level Russian delegation came to New Hampshire to pursue that goal. During their visit, the Russian officials exchanged views and advice on emergency preparedness and homeland security. Producer Richard Ager spent two days with the group and reports on their visits to the statehouse, the Newcastle coast guard station and the Seabrook nuclear plant. One of the agencies visited by the Russian delegation was the Coast Guard www.uscg.mil/d1/units/gruport/staportsnh/ station in Newcastle. The station is part of the Coast Guard's marine safety office for northern New England which has its headquarters in Portland, Maine. Producer Richard Ager spent a day with the servicemen and women at the Newcastle station and shows us how their mission has greatly changed over the past few years. Thursday, March 24 New BIA President; Art & Economic Development; Made in NH The Business and Industry Association is a good place to turn if you want to get the pulse of New Hampshire's business community. The B.I.A. is a business advocacy group representing some 400 NH companies, that employ 80,000 workers and contribute nearly five billion dollars annually to the state's economy. The new President and CEO of the B.I.A. joins NH Outlook host Beth Carroll in-studio to talk about some of the challenges facing New Hampshire businesses. www.bianh.org A tapestry weaver and native of New Hampshire explores ways to combine art and economic development. After spending some time in California learning tapestry, Patryc Wiggins returned to her hometown and started working on a tapestry that told the history of Guild, a small mill village outside Newport where she grew up. The tapestry led to her efforts to revitalize the community through art. Recently when the 135 year old Door Woolen Mill closed its doors, Wiggins began to see connections between traditional economic development, the mill history, art, and culture in the community. Chip Neal has the story of Patryc Wiggins and the Guild Institute. www.guildinstitute.org We begin our new series "Made in NH" where we will profile companies and individuals producing goods here in the Granite State. We kick off the series with a look at Rod's Pawz, www.rodspawz.com a local producer of organic homemade dog treats. Friday, March 25 Friday Edition Journalists from around the state discuss the week's top stories. Guests tba. |
| website Return to index of stories... |
For information on our program, and links to our guests and interviews, visit our web site at nhptv.org. You can see and hear streaming video of our broadcasts. We want to know what's on your mind. Join our discussion forum and tell us what you're thinking. If you have a story idea or comment on our program, click the feedback button. Or, call us at 800-639-2721. |