MARCH/APRIL 2021
A WORD FROM OUR INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER, NANCY WORLIE
Can you believe it’s been a year since many of us began working remotely and experiencing limited moments of in-person connection? I sometimes still forget we can’t shake hands, and I miss hugging my friends. But I am grateful that over the months, we have found ways to stay connected with you, our loyal KPBS members. Whether it’s through our news, programming, virtual events, social media groups, or newsletters, the KPBS family has not wavered in its sense of community, albeit physically distanced. We have gathered for more than 40 virtual events ranging in topics from the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, white supremacy in the military, education and childcare challenges, what’s next for democracy, and so much more.
This spring, we will have opportunities to celebrate our community on TV through new seasons of “Crossing South” and “A Growing Passion.” And in May, the GI Film Festival returns, a personal favorite of mine. Doesn’t that feel like some semblance of normalcy is returning?
It is your support that allows us to continue to serve San Diego and Imperial Counties with trusted news and programming that keeps us connected even when we may be far apart. KPBS will continue to be there for you.
Thank you.
“Hemingway”
Ken Burns Explores the Life and Work of Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway is an iconic literary figure. He’s considered one of the greatest American writers and among the first to live and work at the treacherous nexus of art and celebrity. And now, he is the subject of an upcoming three-part, six-hour documentary directed by award-winning filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick (“The Vietnam War,” “Prohibition”).
“Hemingway” will explore the life and work of the legendary writer and his enduring influence on literature and culture. The series paints an intimate picture of Hemingway as a writer, but also as a man who was a deeply troubled and ultimately tragic figure.
Airs Monday through Wednesday, April 5–7 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
New Seasons of KPBS Local Favorites
Beginning in April, tune in to KPBS for brand-new seasons of local TV favorites “Crossing South” and “A Growing Passion.”
Jorge Meraz
“Crossing South”
On season ten of “Crossing South,” bilingual travel companion and host Jorge Meraz takes us on a journey around Baja California to learn about its unique culture and cuisine. In upcoming episodes, we meet glassblowing artists from Ensenada, try our hand at the fine art of chocolate making, and take a short musical lesson with professional concert pianists. The new season premieres Thursday, April 1 at 9:30 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Nan Sterman
“A Growing Passion”
And local gardening expert Nan Sterman returns to “A Growing Passion” to highlight new beautiful gardens and native habitats in our region. Join Nan as she looks at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the agricultural system, tours the San Diego Botanic Garden, and learns about “Pitaya”—also known as Dragon Fruit—a sour and refreshing fruit that has adapted well to southern California’s microclimate. All this and more on season eight of “A Growing Passion,” premiering Thursday, April 15 at 8:30 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
You can also watch “Crossing South,” “A Growing Passion,” and other local KPBS programs online at video.kpbs.org or by downloading the PBS video app.
New World War II Drama “Atlantic Crossing” Comes to “MASTERPIECE”
What happens when a princess steals the heart of the president of the United States? “Atlantic Crossing,” a brand-new “MASTERPIECE” series, tells a story based on the real-life relationship of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Norwegian Crown Princess Martha.
The series takes place during World War II and stars two-time Emmy nominee Kyle MacLachlan (“Twin Peaks”) and Swedish actress Sofia Helin. The binge-worthy eight-part series focuses on beautiful, politically astute Martha, who flees the Nazis with her three young children and lives under Roosevelt’s increasingly doting protection.
Premieres Sunday, April 4 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Sofia Helin
Gene Demby
Shereen Marisol Meraji
NPR’s Popular “Code Switch” Comes to KPBS Radio This Spring
For seven years, NPR’s “Code Switch” podcast has reached listeners around the world with its close look at race, identity, and culture. And last summer, following the global reckoning of racial injustice, the show’s popularity skyrocketed.
This spring, “Code Switch”—recently selected as Show of the Year by Apple Podcasts—will come to KPBS Radio as a weekly show! Hosted by Shereen Marisol Meraji and Gene Demby, “Code Switch” will continue to confront the topic of race, exploring how it impacts every part of society—from politics and pop culture to history, sports, and everything in between.
“Code Switch’s” debut date is TBD. Please check kpbs.org/radio/schedule for the latest information.
Enjoy New Episodes of “Finding Your Roots” on KPBS
Today’s most compelling personalities discover the surprising stories buried within their own families in the seventh season of the critically acclaimed PBS series “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.,” now airing on KPBS.
This season features Broadway greats Audra McDonald and Mandy Patinkin. Airing on April 27, the episode discovers the ancestors whose struggles laid the groundwork for the success of these two stars. Other notable celebrities featured this season are Andy Cohen, Glenn Close, NPR’s Nina Totenberg, and Jane Lynch.
Airs Tuesdays beginning April 13 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Audra McDonald
“Independent Lens: Philly DA”
“Independent Lens” Presents “Philly D.A.”
“Independent Lens” is America’s home for documentary film. And, this April, the show features a special eight-part series exploring the criminal justice system from the inside.
“Independent Lens: Philly D.A.,” follows civil rights attorney Larry Krasner as he leads a band of activists attempting to end mass incarceration by taking over the agency at its center: the district attorney’s office.
The series brings viewers inside the emotional, high-stakes work that Krasner and an ensemble of idealistic outsiders take on as they attempt to overhaul the justice system as we know it.
Tune in to “Independent Lens: Philly D.A.,” which premieres on April 20 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV. You can also catch up on the series anytime with KPBS Passport via the PBS video app.
Shakespeare and Beethoven Shine on “Great Performances”
This spring, you don’t need to travel farther than your couch to enjoy stunning performances! “Great Performances” returns in April with two special episodes featuring stirring performances of all-time greats.
On April 16 at 9:30 p.m., tune in for “Beethoven in Beijing,” a documentary about the Philadelphia Orchestra’s history-changing 1973 trip to China as cultural diplomats.
And Shakespeare is set to ballet with a special performance of “Romeo and Juliet.” The captivating performance by dancers from The Royal Ballet airs on April 23 at 9 p.m.
Airs Friday evenings on KPBS 2.
“Romeo and Juliet”
New KPBS Podcast Explores Culture, Creativity and Community
What comes to mind when you think of American culture? KPBS’ newest podcast “The Parker Edison Project” aims to answer that question by looking closely at what really makes a culture.
From food to music, style to sex, from fashion to film and so much more, host and co-creator Parker Edison digs deep with insightful conversations about creativity and community, all through the lens of Black America. The best part? Each episode starts with a thought-provoking talk and ends with a musical bang.
Listen at kpbs.org/podcasts/the-parker-edison-project or wherever you get your podcasts.
Sponsor Message
The Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank hosts its ninth annual Chefs, Cork & Craft Gala on Saturday, April 17, 2021. The event will benefit the Food Bank’s COVID-19 Hunger-Relief Response Programs which are currently serving an estimated 600,000 people per month in communities throughout San Diego County.
The evening gala will feature a virtual program that will include a silent online auction, a program highlighting the Food Bank’s mission in the community, and a live musical performance by the legendary Chris Norton. This year’s gala theme, A Return to Old Hollywood, will celebrate the glamour and grandeur of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
The Food Bank will announce detailed plans for the event nearer the event date which will be subject to health and safety protocols in effect at that time.
For tickets and information, visit www.SanDiegoFoodBank.org/Gala.
We Make Donating Your Vehicle Easy.
Imagine a life with less: Less stress, less debt, less clutter. If you have an extra car, truck, motorcycle, or other vehicle that gives you less than you deserve—donate it to KPBS! With free pickup and an easy process, you will be able to turn one less car into a lot more space, sanity, and hours of your favorite programs. Call 877-572-7227 or visit www.kpbs.org/car and we will arrange for free and convenient pickup.
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KPBS channel info—television
KPBS TV—15, Cox 1011, 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—radio
San Diego—89.5 FM, Calexico 97.7 FM