As you have seen over the past several weeks, inspired by the epic 2009 PBS documentary from Ken Burns entitled “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea,” my family and I have taken up the challenge of visiting — and extolling the virtues of — the national treasures which form the heart of the film… and of America itself. This is the final week of our travels, and while our 2012 time in Yellowstone and Grand Teton has ended, like Mark Twain, the experiences are now integral aspects of us all, which we shall each continue to fathom forever. We will actually be making our way through the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri, and spending time exploring caves and waterways that form the backdrop of some of Mr. Twain’s most wonderful tales. Entering these adventures, as privileged as I felt, I did not dare hope to experience revelations, but in truth, the knowledge we are gaining of people and places is already priceless to me. To say the least, I encourage you to follow these trails, or those you come across which inspire you the most.
Half the Sky: Thanks for the Documentary
Thankfully, the Half the Sky Movement is well underway tonight, continuing a vital quest to turn oppression into opportunity for women worldwide. The Movement’s documentary begins its two-night engagement on PBS about an hour from now on the U.S. East Coast. Produced for PBS’s Independent Lens by Show of Force, the film is based on … Read moreHalf the Sky: Thanks for the Documentary
From producer Marc N. Weiss and two-time Academy Award-winning director Barbara Kopple, whose credits also include “Harlan County, U.S.A.,” “American Dreams” and “Shut Up and Sing,” comes “Gun Fight,” premiering tonight (Wednesday, April 13) on HBO. Blending archival and original footage, “Gun Fight” investigates the complex issues surrounding gun violence in America, and the seemingly intractable debate about what to do about it. To me personally, this is truly Must See TV. Here’s what a few others are saying about it.