Under the Big Sky, the Emmy Award-Winning storytelling series from the Montana Television Network, has received a $40,000 grant from the Greater Montana Foundation to continue to bring stories about life in Montana to audiences.
The series premiered in February 2017 and recently finished production on its seventh episode. The quarterly program combines cinematic visuals and first-person storytelling to highlight stories that make Montana a more compelling place to live.
“We are particularly pleased to receive this grant,” series Executive Producer Shawn Newton says. “The Greater Montana Foundation continues to support and encourage quality broadcasting in our state and our team works hard to deliver high-quality stories to our audience. I think it is a perfect match.”
Founded by pioneer broadcaster Ed Craney in 1958, the Greater Montana Foundation provides grants to improve the quality of communications on important issues through electronic media. Grants also support students in TV and radio at the state’s Universities. GMF offers awards for excellence and continuing professional development for Montana broadcaster, reflecting Mr. Craney’s emphasis on commercial broadcasting. More information is available at www.greatermontana.org .
“KXLF our MTN Butte affiliate was founded by Ed Craney in 1953 and was the first television station to broadcast in Montana.” Vice-President of Operations for E.W. Scripps Jon Saunders says. “Our entire organization is pleased the GMF, also founded by Craney, has allowed us to honor that heritage in this way and we are grateful for their support.”
In June, Under the Big Skyearned recognition in three categories at the NW Regional Emmy Awards:Historic/Cultural - Program for “Under the Big Sky - Episode 5”, Arts/Entertainment - Program Feature/Segment for “Live from The Divide” and individual craft award for series cinematographer Matthew Wheat in the Photographer – Program category.
Filming for the upcoming season of Under the Big Sky begins early next month with a new episode slated for release later this Fall. All of their current stories are available for free on their website,
www.underthebigsky.com
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