OETA ‘Festival’ Pledge Drive Begins Tonight

By RITA SHERROW World Television Editor

The Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA) launches its annual “Festival” pledge drive at 7 p.m. tonight on KOED, channel 11.

The event, which raises funds the statewide TV network uses to purchase Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and syndicated programming, includes new shows and old favorites. It continues through March 18.

Scheduled are:

“Great Performances: Jerry Lee Lewis – Last Man Standing Live” featuring his hits with special guests Willie Nelson, Norah Jones, John Fogerty, Kris kristofferson, Ron Wood, Tom Jones, Chris Isaak, Don Henley, Merle Haggard and more. Airing at 9 p.m. March 5.

“Elvis Lives: The 25th Anniversary Concert,” a special which integrates recorded performances of the late entertainer with live musicians and singers on stage, including his original TCB band, backup singers and musical director. It airs at 7 p.m. March 13.

“Johnny Mathis: Wonderful, Wonderful! A 50th Anniversary Celebration,” with a concert performance, vintage TV clips and appearances by Andy Williams, Nancy Reagan and Deniece Williams. It airs at 9 p.m. March 12.

Favorites scheduled include: “The Best of Nature: 25 Years,” 7 p.m. Sunday (March 4); “Kenny Rogers: The Journey,” 7 p.m. March 7; and “The Oklahoma IRemember,” 5 p.m. Saturday (March 3).

The network’s on-air goal has not yet been decided.

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