JULY/AUGUST 2024
A WORD FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER, DEANNA MACKEY
Are you like me and always on the hunt for a good book? There is something about summer that particularly lends itself to collecting new titles and rereading old favorites.
Earlier this year, we held a “pitch party” for “One Book, One San Diego” where we got the inside scoop on some of the hottest titles being nominated for the new season of One Book, “pitched” by a cast of special insiders, both national publishing representatives and San Diego independent booksellers. My list of books to read grew! Now we’re gearing up to announce the 2024 One Book selections later this summer. Launched in 2007, the One Book program encourages everyone in the San Diego and the Northern Baja region to read and discuss the same book. One Book is selected for four categories of readers: adults, teens, kids and Spanish. It is an amazing partnership, led by KPBS, with the San Diego Public Library, the San Diego County Library, San Diego State University, One Book Sin Fronteras and more than 30 others.
If you haven’t participated in One Book in the past, I hope you will join us this year.
‘Hotel Portofino’
Credit: Eagle Eye Drama Ltd.
Romance Awaits
Get ready for more drama set against the picturesque seaside town of Portofino. In Season 3, follow Bella Ainsworth as she continues her endeavor to make “Hotel Portofino” a success. Expect more intrigue, romance and challenges as Bella and Cecil, navigate their next steps amid the glamour of the Italian Riviera in the 1920s.
With stunning scenery and intriguing storylines, viewers will be drawn into the captivating atmosphere of this period drama. From unexpected twists to heartfelt moments, this season will enchant you and keep you coming back for more. Don’t miss out on the enticing adventures awaiting at “Hotel Portofino.”
Premieres Sunday, July 28, at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch this program live or stream with the PBS App.
KPBS Presents an Investigative Series
“Taking Cover,” a new seven-episode special investigative series, will air on KPBS Radio this summer. A blast that occurred in Fallujah, Iraq 20 years ago claimed the lives of three U.S. Marines and injured 12 more. This was the worst instance of alleged friendly fire involving U.S. Marines. Yet, the Pentagon lied about it and covered up the truth.
Hosted by NPR’s Steve Inskeep, “Taking Cover” features the reporting of NPR Pentagon correspondent Tom Bowman and Graham Smith of the NPR Investigations Desk. Together, they confront important questions about what is asked of young Americans sent off to war—and what is owed to their families and to the public in the wake of tragedy.
Seven one-hour specials airing Sundays, July 14 through August 25, at 2 p.m. Listen on KPBS Radio or stream live via the KPBS App or via KPBS On the Go: kpbs.org/kpbs-on-the-go.
Credit: Capitol Concerts
America’s Patriotic Birthday Bash
Celebrate Independence Day with “A Capitol Fourth.” Witness spectacular performances across musical genres in salute to our nation, its history and promise, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display set against the backdrop of Washington D.C.’s majestic skyline. This live event is an annual favorite, with millions of viewers tuning in nationwide, along with our troops around the world, to enjoy patriotic performances from the nation’s best and brightest talents.
Airs Thursday, July 4, at 8 p.m. and again at 9:30 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch this program live or stream with the PBS App.
Music Under the Stars
Experience the magic of classical music under the stars with “Great Performances: Vienna Philharmonic Summer Night Concert.” This enchanting event showcases the Vienna Philharmonic orchestra, conducted by maestro Andris Nelsons. Set amid the breathtaking gardens of Austria’s Imperial Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, the concert offers a mesmerizing fusion of music and majestic surroundings.
Premieres Friday, August 23, at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2 and again on Sunday, August 25, at 6 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch this program live or stream with the PBS App.
‘Foyle’s War’
The critically acclaimed British series “Foyle’s War” blends historical authenticity with gripping mysteries. Detective Christopher Foyle investigates domestic cases during World War II and the Cold War in London, while witnessing the social fabric of his coastal town crumble.
“Foyle’s War” returns to KPBS-TV on Thursday, August 1 and the PBS App will offer streaming for all four seasons.
‘Sister Boniface Mysteries’
‘Sister Boniface Mysteries’
Our beloved Vespa-driving, crime-solving Catholic nun “Sister Boniface Mysteries” is back. Her faith in forensics is only rivalled by her passion for investigation. With a little assistance from dashing DI Sam Gillespie and sleek Bermudan DS Felix Livingstone, she will locate any evidence that can be found.
“Sister Boniface Mysteries” airs Saturday nights on KPBS-TV beginning July 6.
‘Royal Flying Doctor Service’
‘Royal Flying Doctor Service’
Explore the Australian outback with Season 2 of the “Royal Flying Doctor Service,” a compelling drama series based on remarkable real-life stories. Watch these modern-day heroes navigate personal lives as turbulent and profound as the heart-stopping emergencies they treat.
Season 2 of “Royal Flying Doctor Service” airs Friday nights beginning July 5 on KPBS-TV or stream these programs with the PBS App.
KPBS steps into the heart of American democracy. Throughout the 2024 election cycle, we will keep you up to date on the most important issues facing San Diego and our country. From voting rights to the economy and the nation’s deep political divide, we’ll provide critical analysis, context and perspective leading up to Election Day and in the days that follow.
KPBS’ Voter Hub (kpbs.org/voterhub) offers comprehensive election coverage and an interactive ballot guide that contains all the information you need to make informed choices. To see democracy in action, tune in to “PBS News Hour” for coverage of the Republican and Democratic Party conventions. As the nation’s premier news program, “PBS News Hour” delivers unparalleled coverage of every speech, debate and development to help you separate fact from fiction.
“PBS News Hour” covers the Republican National Convention Monday, July 15–Thursday, July 18, at 5 p.m. on KPBS-TV and the Democratic National Convention Monday, August 19–Thursday, August 22, at 5 p.m. on KPBS-TV. Watch these programs live or stream with the PBS App.
Hometown Pride with San Diego’s Ken Kramer
“Ken Kramer’s About San Diego” is a collection of stories about the history and the people of the area we call home. Ranging from all over San Diego County, the stories often deal with little-known things about our past, and how they relate to places we see every day.
New episodes debuting in July and August will be available for early streaming Monday, July 1 and Thursday, August 1 with KPBS Passport in the PBS App, and will air on KPBS-TV on Thursdays, July 11 and August 8, at 8 p.m.
Do More with KPBS—Join the Producers Club!
KPBS Producers Club members give $1,200 or more each year to strengthen the impact of public broadcasting. Producers Club members are the station’s most invested and engaged supporters; they are our ambassadors and counselors. They enable KPBS to expand its vision of excellence, develop new programs, and serve our communities. More importantly, they provide foundational support that enables our growth today and into the future.
Members also enjoy many unique opportunities, including by-invitation-only events with on-air personalities, advance notice of upcoming projects and programs of special interest, behind-the-scenes station tours, and more.
To become a Producers Club member or to learn more visit kpbs.org/pc or contact Jared Blakeley at (619) 594-0851 or [email protected].
Did You Know? You can make a Producers Club–level gift through your IRA and have it qualify against your annual Required Minimum Distribution.
On Saturdays in July, KPBS Radio will present recorded broadcasts of the San Diego Opera’s 2023–24 season. The broadcasts will include “El Milagro del Recuerdo” in which the elegance of opera mingles with upbeat mariachi music to tell a touching story, followed by “Don Giovanni,” a story of passion and revenge, which is regarded as the ideal opera featuring Mozart’s magnificent music. Some of the best musical moments from Puccini’s extensive career can be heard in “Madama Butterfly,” a work of passionate, poignant and mysterious art.
Listen Saturdays, beginning July 13 through July 27, at 8 p.m. Stream live via the KPBS App and KPBS On the Go, kpbs.org/kpbs-on-the-go.
Uniting Through Reading
“One Book, One San Diego” is our region’s premier literary program, presented in partnership between KPBS and over 80 public libraries, service organizations and educational institutions.
Now in its 18th year, the purpose is to bring our community closer together through the shared experience of reading and discussing the same book. Each year, “One Book, One San Diego” features a selection for adults, teens, kids and one for Spanish language readers (One Book Sin Fronteras). The program brings together our community and encourages residents to join together in the shared experience of reading and discussions of the ideas raised in the featured books, and examination of how these ideas connect with our daily lives and local communities.
To Learn more, please visit https://www.kpbs.org/one-book-one-san-diego.
High-Stakes Drama
Prime Minister Robert Sutherland faces unprecedented obstacles to maintain control. Watch as he confronts a menacing rebellion from within his government and navigates protests, arms deals and corporate security entanglements. As crises mount, Sutherland grapples with tough decisions, questioning the very essence of power and sacrifice. “COBRA: Rebellion” promises intense drama and political intrigue, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges of leadership in a tumultuous world. Don’t miss out on the action-packed season as Sutherland’s government fights for stability amid rising tensions. Come see the thrilling saga unfold in “COBRA: Rebellion.”
Premieres Sunday, August 4, at 10 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Watch this program live or stream with the PBS App.
“COBRA: Rebellion”
Credit: BBC
The Golden Age of Tennis
“Gods of Tennis” an exciting documentary series that highlights iconic moments in tennis through the world-renowned Wimbledon Championships.
In 1975, Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe were competing to become Wimbledon champions—and away from the court, both are pioneers battling for social change on a global scale. Next, revisit the Wimbledon finals from the early 1980s, which were among the most memorable in men’s tennis history. Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe’s rivalry brings celebrity and chaos to the tennis court, with McEnroe frequently clashing with umpires and displaying explosive outbursts. Finally, we return to the 1990s, where Martina Navratilova competes against her famous rival, Chris Evert, America’s sweetheart. An intense competition and a search for acceptance culminate in a desire to be the greatest player to ever grace Centre Court.
“Gods of Tennis” tells the true stories of legendary tennis players through interviews and archival footage, offering firsthand accounts of pivotal moments in their careers.
Airs Tuesdays beginning July 23, at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Watch this program live or stream with the PBS App.
Sponsor Message
‘tick, tick…BOOM!’ Life Affirming • Upbeat • For Fans of Rent
Before he electrified the world with Rent, Jonathan Larson was a young man struggling to make his mark in the theater. While he waits tables and seeks his big break, the pressure to give it all up grows as Jon approaches his 30th birthday. Will he sell out to keep the lights on? Will he lose the love of his life? Will he finally write the soaring song that can change everything? And if he does, will anyone be there to see it?
Set in 1990 and scored by the music that redefined a genre, “tick, tick…BOOM!” cracks open the ticking-time-bomb world of creating theater to celebrate the power of finding your voice and holding on to a dream.
Don’t miss the inspiring musical The New York Times calls “Heart-grabbing.” Runs July 3– August 4, 2024.
Featuring AJ Rafael as Jon. AJ is an accomplished singer/songwriter who has amassed over 1 million subscribers on YouTube and 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify. https://www.cygnettheatre.com/
(619) 594-6983 or (888) 399-5727; [email protected]
Sign up for email newsletters and alerts:
kpbs.org/alerts
KPBS television and radio schedules:
kpbs.org/tv/schedule
kpbs.org/radio/schedule
Write to us:
5200 Campanile Drive
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA 92182-5400
KPBS channel info—television
KPBS-TV—15.1, Cox 11, Spectrum 1221
KPBS 2—15.2, Cox 811, Spectrum 1277
KPBS Create—15.3, Cox 816, Spectrum 1275
KPBS Kids—15.4, Cox 809, Spectrum 1276
KPBS channel info—HD radio
KPBS Radio—89.5 HD1, Calexico 97.7 FM
Classical San Diego—89.5 HD2
Donate Today!
You may think your car has had its final ride, but not all good things have to end! You can donate your car, truck, boat, or motorcycle to support KPBS. It’s easy. The tow is free, and we handle the process from start to finish. Call 877-572-7227 or visit kpbs.org/car to donate your vehicle today.