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MAY/JUNE 2020

A WORD FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER, TOM KARLO

I think we can agree that, thus far, 2020 has been a year for the history books. In the first four months we brought you nonstop news coverage of COVID-19 on radio, TV, web and mobile app, and launched a statewide educational initiative to help our students keep learning during school closures. We had gavel-to-gavel coverage of the impeachment hearings and trial; we launched a brand-new Voter Guide to help inform you of the measures and candidates on your March 3rd ballot; and the news team produced countless local election stories. Through it all, I keep thinking that in our 60th year, I believe that now more than ever public media is a vital, trusted source of news and programming you rely on to connect you to your community. It is thanks to your support that we are able to provide thoughtful and thought-provoking storytelling and dig deep into issues that matter to you. Thank you.

Editor’s Note: Since going to press with the print version of KPBS Connections, there have been changes in programming as a results of COVID-19, and more changes are possible. For the latest information, please be sure to visit kpbs.org/tv/schedule and kpbs.org/radio/schedule.

“Grantchester”

“Grantchester” Returns for Season Five

This June, “Grantchester” returns to “MASTERPIECE” on the heels of an emotional end to season four.

The series last left us with Will Davenport confronting his family and a potential new relationship—and finally finding a way to stay in his position as vicar. Geordie figured out how to be a better father, and Leonard came to terms with what his future will hold.

Season five will pick up again in 1957 Cambridge, the year Prime Minister Harold Macmillan told the British people that they had “never had it so good.” But those who love “Grantchester” know that trouble is always around the corner … and this season promises to be no different!

Tune in for new crimes, new romances, and, as is typical in the village of Grantchester, new murders.

Premieres Sunday, June 14 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV.

Every contribution makes a difference.

“Asian Americans”

“Asian Americans” Explores the Fastest-Growing Ethnic Group in America

This May, KPBS will proudly share “Asian Americans,” a brand-new five-hour film series that will chronicle the contributions, cultures, and challenges of Asian Americans, the fastest-growing ethnic group in America.

Academy Award-nominated series producer Renee Tajima-Peña joined other talented, renowned filmmakers to create the series, which explores how Asian Americans have shaped our country’s history and identity.

It features expert perspectives and historical accounts to explore the impact of Asian Americans on America’s past, present, and future.

Airs Monday and Tuesday, May 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV.

2020 “National Memorial Day Concert”

KPBS is pleased to present the 2020 “National Memorial Day Concert”—one of PBS’ most beloved programs.

On the eve of Memorial Day, a star-studded lineup will grace the stage for what has become an American tradition, honoring the military service and sacrifice of all our men and women in uniform, their families at home, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Tune in for uplifting musical performances, documentary footage, and dramatic readings that will unite the country in remembrance and appreciation of those who have given their lives for our nation.

Premieres Sunday, May 24 at 8:00 p.m. with encore at 9:30 p.m. on KPBS-TV.

2020 “National Memorial Day Concert”

“Incoming” host Justin Hudnall.
Photo credit: Kinsee Morlan

“Incoming” is back on KPBS Radio!

“Incoming”—the public radio program that showcases the true stories of America’s military, told in their own words—returns for a new season on the air and as a podcast.

Featuring in-depth interviews and theatrical performances of our guests’ written stories, “Incoming” strives to exist as living proof to our veterans and veteran family listeners that they aren’t alone.

This season, playwright Delia Knight brings a beautiful duet of stories from the gripping perspective of the sister of a Marine; Allison Gill invites us into her alchemy of metabolizing trauma through comedy; and Army veteran Kayla Williams talks with us about serving in Iraq as the most forward-deployed woman of the war at that time.

Airs Fridays, beginning May 1 at 8 p.m. on KPBS Radio and at kpbs.org/podcasts/incoming.

“Expect a Miracle” Tells the Story of San Diego AIDS Hospice

KPBS-TV presents “Expect a Miracle,” the dual story of the AIDS crisis in San Diego and Fraternity House, the only hospice in North San Diego County that took in patients near death to give them a safe place to die with dignity and love.

The riveting film centers on a handful of everyday people who became heroes, caring for a marginalized and persecuted population in a time of heightened fear, misinformation, and mass rejection from their families, society, and the government. As science has progressed, Fraternity House now helps people with AIDS relearn how to live and to love.

Airs Tuesday, June 9 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV; also streaming anytime on the PBS Video App.

Lisa Lispsey visiting her uncle’s memorial brick at Fraternity House.
Photography Credit: Jon Hammond

George W. Bush

The Life and Career of George W. Bush

KPBS is thrilled to air “George W. Bush” from “American Experience,” a brand-new, two-part documentary on his life and career.

Featuring historians, journalists, and members of the President’s inner circle, the film presents in great detail key insights into our 43rd President’s rise to the Oval Office, his character, and the history he built during his time in office.

Premieres Monday and Tuesday, May 4 and 5 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Encore on Wednesdays June 10 and 17 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2.

Stay Connected at Home

Whether you’re looking for critical updates on COVID-19 or simply seeking a break from it all, NPR is available in your home with just a few easy-to-remember commands.

When you tell your smart speaker to “Play NPR” you’ll receive national news updates alongside reporting happening in your community from KPBS—right from home. Other popular smart speaker commands include …

“Play news from NPR” to hear our latest news briefing on demand, anytime.

“Play [podcast name]” to hear the most recent episode of any podcast, such as the new Coronavirus Daily and the new season of “Invisibilia.”

“Open the ‘Wait Wait’ quiz” for a break and a chance to win the “Wait Wait” voice of your choice on your voicemail.

We uncover stories that matter and bring them home. Whether you tune in for a quick update, trusted news, or get lost in your favorite podcast … storytelling is just a few words away.

Sponsor Message

In response to the current health and economic crisis, The San Diego Foundation and a coalition of philanthropy, government and business partners joined together to create the San Diego COVID-19 Community Response Fund. Working in close collaboration with regional leaders from all sectors, the Fund is rapidly deploying resources to local nonprofits to support San Diegans impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.

Whether it’s helping a single mother and her two children keep a roof over their heads, providing food and rental assistance to San Diegans who have lost their jobs, or giving low-income children the vital resources they need to continue their education from home, every dollar donated is making a difference.

The San Diego Foundation is a community foundation that maximizes the impact of your charitable giving. For more than 40 years, The Foundation and our donors have granted more than $1.2 billion to nonprofit organizations to grow a vibrant San Diego region. Visit SDFoundation.org/covid19 to learn more.

Did you know you can donate your vehicle to KPBS? Greg, a KPBS supporter, did just that!

“My mom and dad purchased a Mercedes in 2000, owned it for over 18 years, and truly loved it. Even when they purchased another brand-new Mercedes, a 2016 S-Class 550, they couldn’t bring themselves to get rid of their trusty old 2000. It needed some repairs that would cost more than the car was worth, so my dad and I agreed that the best course of action was to donate it. I love KPBS programming, so we agreed that KPBS would be a good group to donate the car to.”

– Greg, KPBS Supporter

To learn more about how to donate a vehicle to KPBS, visit kpbs.careasy.org orcall 877-KPBS-CAR.

KPBS Audience and Member Services:
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KPBS televison and radio schedules:
kpbs.org/tv/schedule
kpbs.org/radio/schedule

Write to us:
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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA 92182-5400

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