Arkansans have many stories to tell and Arkansas PBS is proud to take part in sharing those stories. Because we're able to tell these stories, we’re excited to announce that we’ve earned a record 11 regional Emmy Award nominations from the Mid-America Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) for original and local productions! Winners will be announced Saturday, Oct. 25. Nominated productions may be viewed at myarpbs.org/awardnominated.
Arkansas PBS original productions receiving multiple nominations include:
This Arkansas PBS original production follows Arkansan Adam Riley of Fayetteville and Canadian Matty Clarke as they embark on a journey through uncharted waters, setting out to conquer the final grail of adventure: rowing over the top of Canada in handmade rowboats, a feat that would make them the first ever to cross the Northwest Passage, self-propelled, in a single season.
· Adam Riley, Matty Clarke – Photographer – Long Form or Short Form Content.
· Documentary – Cultural. Produced by Terrell Case, Eric White, Tracy Prince, Corey Womack, Adam Riley and Matty Clarke.
“Unveiled: Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash”
This Arkansas PBS original production explores the creation and installation of Arkansas' newest statues in the National Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol, as well as the enduring legacies of two of the state’s most iconic figures.
· Nathan Willis, Director – Long Form or Short Form Content.
· Documentary – Historical. Produced by Sajni Kumpuris, Nathan Willis and Courtney Pledger.
· Nathan Willis, Photographer – Long Form or Short Form Content.
· “Coach Rip” – Sports Story – Short Form Content. Coach Charles Ripley is an Arkansas basketball legend, taking the Parkview Patriots to five state championships from 1978 to 1995. But Coach Rip, as he was known to his players, was admired much more for his contributions off the court. Produced by Eric White.
· “Moment in the Sun” – Sports Story – Short Form Content. In the early 1990s, a remarkable chapter in Arkansas basketball history was about to unfold at Arkansas Tech University. Under the leadership of coach Joe Foley, the Golden Suns weren’t just chasing victories – they were building a program that inspired generations. This is the story of back-to-back national championships that did more than fill a trophy case – it created a legacy that continues to shape Arkansas basketball today. Produced by Shotaro Kanari.
· “Unified” – Human Interest – Short Form. Starting from scratch can be a struggle, but teamwork makes the dream work. Siloam Springs began the year with the first practice ever for their Special Olympics Unified Cheer team and took that collaboration all the way to the state finals. Produced by Eric White.
Arkansas PBS also received the following nominations:
· “Totality: Live Eclipse Across Arkansas” – Special Event Coverage – Live Production. According to NASA, a total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the Sun’s face. As the Great North American Eclipse of 2024 – a monumental celestial event more than 100 years in the making – spanned a complete arc across Arkansas, viewers worldwide were able to watch the full path via livestream. Produced by Anita Grote.
· “Celebrating Arkansas: Holiday Traditions – Spring/Summer” – Magazine Program. Host Mario Luna gets the scoop on Fourth of July fireworks with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, St. Patrick’s Day Parades and cardboard boat races. Produced by Bailey Sanders and Casey Sanders.
· “Arkansas Treasures” Season 2 Promo – Promotion – Program. Produced by Kevin Clark. Supporters from across the state bring their unique, antique and collectible treasures to be assessed by professional evaluators to learn their value and share their story.
HOW TO WATCH
You can watch these award-nominated Arkansas PBS original productions at watch.myarkansaspbs.org or at myarpbs.org/awardnominated.
The NATAS Mid-America chapter – which includes television markets primarily in Arkansas, Illinois and Missouri – will announce winners Saturday, Oct. 25.