On Thursday, October 22, Idaho Public Television is doing something we’ve never done before: devoting an entire live evening to celebrating the local programs and Idaho stories at the heart of what we do.
From 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. on the Idaho Channel, viewers can enjoy two new premieres, live studio conversations, exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, and a preview of what’s ahead this season on our original series Outdoor Idaho and Idaho Experience.
But this special night goes beyond the premieres. For the first time, we’re creating an evening dedicated to taking viewers deeper into our local productions, with extended conversations with the people who make these programs and the Idahoans whose stories they tell.
You’ll hear stories that didn’t make it into the finished episodes, learn more about what happens behind the camera, and meet some of the people who bring these uniquely Idaho stories to life.
It’s a first-of-its-kind night for Idaho Public Television and we hope you’ll join us.
7:00 p.m. — “Ridin’ Trail” on Outdoor Idaho
The evening begins with the premiere of “Ridin’ Trail” on Outdoor Idaho, exploring the history of Honda trail bikes in Idaho. The story traces their impact back to Herb Uhl and the early Honda 50s and 90s, which opened new possibilities for exploring Idaho’s backcountry, and follows that legacy to the adventure riders still hitting the trail today.
As part of the live broadcast, Herb’s son, Mike Uhl, will join producer/director Andy Lawless for a special conversation about his father, his legacy, and the stories behind the episode.
8:00 p.m. — “Gridiron Innovations” on Idaho Experience
At 8:00 p.m., Idaho Experience premieres “Gridiron Innovations: The Kibbie Dome, The Minidome & the Blue.” The episode explores the Idaho ingenuity behind three distinctive sports landmarks: the University of Idaho’s Kibbie Dome, Idaho State University’s Minidome, and Boise State University’s famous blue turf.
Renowned sports journalist Tom Scott will join producer/director Eric Westrom in the studio to share stories and insights about these three uniquely Idaho innovations.
Go Behind the Scenes
Throughout the evening, viewers will get an exclusive look at what happens before a finished episode ever reaches the screen.
The directors behind both programs will share stories about the research, travel, filming, interviews, and many hours of work that go into producing local television. You’ll hear stories that didn’t make the final cut, see exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, and get a sneak peek at what’s coming next from Outdoor Idaho and Idaho Experience.
It’s a chance to experience not only the finished programs, but also the people, places, and work that bring Idaho’s stories to life.
Help Unlock a $25,000 Gift
The evening will also include a special opportunity for viewers to support Idaho Public Television.
If 100 donors make a gift between 6:00 p.m. and midnight on October 22, they will unlock a $25,000 gift made possible by the generous Hansberger Family Foundation.
Whether it’s your first gift or you’ve supported Idaho Public Television for years, every donor who participates during the challenge window helps move us closer to unlocking the full $25,000.
Any donation amount counts toward the goal.
Special thank-you gifts will also be available throughout the evening as another way for us to show our appreciation for your support.
Local programs like Outdoor Idaho and Idaho Experience preserve Idaho stories, explore our history and introduce viewers to the people and ideas shaping our state. On October 22, we’re celebrating that work with an evening devoted entirely to the stories of Idaho.
Tune in for two new premieres, special guests, exclusive stories you won’t hear anywhere else, and the opportunity to help unlock a $25,000 gift for Idaho Public Television.
Two Premieres. One Special Night.
Thursday, October 22
7:00–9:30 p.m.
LIVE on the Idaho Channel