APTS engages search firm for Lawson successor

Public TV's lobbying unit, the Association of Public Television Stations, said today it expects to hire a new president by September. The Boston-based search firm of Issacson, Miller, which specializes in nonprofit leadership posts, will conduct a nationwide hunt. Jane Gruenebaum, a onetime congressional staffer who was executive director of the League of Women Voters and c.o.o. of the Center for Policy Alternatives, is heading the search, working with Gail Gregory. In March, John Lawson left APTS after leading it for seven years.

Three Webby nominations for NPR Music

This year's slate of Webby nominees includes thirteen different public broadcasting websites and mobile services, as well as PBS Kids Sprout, the pubTV- affiliated digital channel. NPR Music's Project Song received three nominations in the online film and video division, and Frontline/World received three. Nominees in the Web division include Seattle music station KEXP, World Without Oil, and political coverage on NPR.org. Voting for the Webby People's Voice Awards closes on May 1; winners will be announced May 6.

Mr. McFeely: Behind the Music

A documentary about David Newell, who played Mr. McFeely on Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood and continues to makes in-character appearances 40 years later, premieres tomorrow in Pittsburgh. The doc, made on $4,000 by a 26-year-old who forged a friendship with Newell three years ago, follows the speedy delivery man--in and out of costume--through a summer of engagements, including one on a Mr. Rogers' replica set in Baltimore.

Adobe's new video player

Adobe has released its new, free Flash-based video player, which includes content from PBS and the Bay Area's KQED. Viewers can stream or download video, and they can watch while online or offline. The current business model relies on ads attached to videos, but Adobe may develop other models, such as paying to download or rent, reports CNET. Other content partners include CBS, MTV and Scripps Networks.