HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. (February 14, 2006) – KOCE-TV crews have traveled down to Mexico to explore the migration and mating patterns of the endangered gray whale. This colorful encounter is documented in an original feature length program, “The Friendly Whales of the San Ignacio Lagoon.” The program, currently in post-production, is slated to premier Monday, February 27, 2006 at 7:30 p.m. just ahead of the Festival of Whales in Dana Point, Calif.

Featuring exciting underwater footage and film taken by a crew of two from KOCE-TV’s small fishing boat positioned in the San Ignacio Lagoon of Mexico, “The Friendly Whales of the San Ignacio Lagoon” promises to be a visually stunning piece.

“KOCE-TV is proud to present special features such as ‘The Friendly Whales of the San Ignacio Lagoon,’” said Mel Rogers, president and general manager of KOCE-TV. “Programs like these are both fascinating and educational, and serve the mission of bringing the beauty and awe of nature into the homes of Orange County residents.”

50-Foot Long Whales, 550 Miles South of OC
Gray whales transit the California coastline by the hundreds on their way between the Bering Sea of Alaska and the coast of northern Mexico annually – one of the longest migrations of any mammal. Because gray whales swim slower than other whales and stay near shore in almost all parts of their range, they have traditionally been easy prey for whalers who have hunted them relentlessly, nearly to the point of extinction. The gray whale is currently recovering from over-harvesting, but is still classified as an endangered species by the World Conservation Union.

The Friendly Whales – Surfacing, Splashing and Baby-Making
“The Friendly Whales of the San Ignacio Lagoon” will observe the whales’ everyday activities which include surfacing, rolling, splashing and even spy-hopping, an activity where whales appear to be “standing” on their tails as they peer across the surface of the water. Also, if conditions are suitable, footage may even include actually reaching out and touching the whales, which have earned the nickname “the friendly whales.”

“’The Friendly Whales of the San Ignacio Lagoon’ presents a truly candid look at these fascinating animals as they give birth to and nurture their young in the warm waters of the San Ignacio Lagoon – one of the few remaining natural environments for whales to do so without interference by human development,” said Peter Murphy, executive producer of the program and KOCE director of corporate underwriting.

The program will premier on KOCE-TV and will then be offered via satellite to PBS stations across the nation. The program will re-broadcast on KOCE-TV throughout the month of March.

“The Friendly Whales of the San Ignacio Lagoon” has been made possible by the generous underwriting of the City of Dana Point, as well as CR & R Incorporated, SDGE/Sempra Energy, Vintage Partners, and Dana Wharf Sportsfishing.

About the City of Dana Point
Dana Point is coined as “The Whale Capitol of the West Coast.” During peak season (December through April), 40 to 50 whales pass by Dana Point everyday, making the Dana Point Harbor the best spot to whale watch in Southern California and a popular destination for winter vacationers.

The Dana Point Festival of Whales runs March 4 and 5, as well as March 11 and 12. More information can be obtained at www.festivalofwhales.org or by calling (888) 440-4309.

About KOCE-TV
KOCE-TV, one of the most watched PBS stations in America, has an estimated 4.5 million viewers* each month, and offers a mix of both local and national programs. In addition, KOCE Classroom serves more than half-a-million K-14 students. The winner of hundreds of awards including Emmys and Community Service Awards, KOCE continues to be a leading resource for education, culture and local issues in Southern California.  For more information, please visit www.koce.org.

Editor’s Note: Photos and/or interviews available by request.
*This figure was calculated by KOCE's program consultant and is based upon information obtained via PubTV Online.