Reality TV is the topic of the next edition of "To the Best of My Knowledge," Penn State President Graham B. Spanier's monthly call-in show. Simulcast at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, on WPSU-FM, WPSX-TV and online at http://www.wpsu.psu.edu/ttbomk/ the show will feature Clay Calvert, associate professor of communications and law at Penn State and author of "Voyeur Nation;" and Matt Gould, a 1999 Penn State graduate and "star" of Spike TV's "The Joe Schmo Show." Joining the program via telephone will be Rick Balkey, better known as Rick Rockwell, the groom from "Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire?"
It's everywhere -- from the real-life courtroom dramas on Court TV to the tell-all daytime talk shows, to the very real police chases on "COPS!" But is reality TV just a fad or is it here to stay? Why have viewers become so intent on watching the intimate dramas of real life? And what impact have these reality TV programs had on the people who appear in them? Spanier and guests will talk about this popular form of modern entertainment, which dominates TV schedules and influences the content of television news and the public.
Viewers and listeners are encouraged to join the discussion by calling (800) 543-8242 during the one-hour broadcast. They can also contact Spanier and his guests during the program via e-mail sent to response@psu.edu. Internet users worldwide will be able to link to the program at http://www.wpsu.psu.edu/ttbomk/
"To the Best of My Knowledge" is a series designed to explore topics of national and local concern while allowing listeners the opportunity to communicate directly with the Penn State University president.
WPSX-TV currently broadcasts a 24-hour program schedule to 29 counties throughout Pennsylvania and southern New York. Member-supported WPSU-FM can be heard at 91.5 in Central Pennsylvania, 106.7 in Altoona, 90.1 in Northern Pennsylvania, 100.9 in Bradford, 95.1 in Treasure Lake, 104.7 in Clearfield, 92.3 in Huntingdon, and 92.1 in DuBois. WPSU-FM can also be heard online at http://wpsu.org