NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
A WORD FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER, TOM KARLO
“What are you listening to?” I am hearing this question more as people turn to podcasts. I always respond with a recommendation from KPBS, and we have added a lot of new, exciting content in recent weeks.
“Rad Scientist” host Margot Wohl was inspired by racial injustice protests, and put together a new season that centers on Black scientists. This season, the scientists discuss their work as well as how racism has impacted their scientific journey.
Have you had a chance to listen to our new podcast “Port of Entry?” From KPBS and PRX, “Port of Entry” tells the stories of love, hope, struggle, and survival from people whose lives are shaped by the border wall.
And last but not least, “Cinema Junkie” recently celebrated its 200th episode milestone. Beth Accomando, host and KPBS arts reporter, is a podcast pioneer for us. “Cinema Junkie” satisfies your celluloid addiction.
I am proud of the work we are doing to be a trusted source of exceptional content. I am thankful for you—our members and dedicated partners—who help us achieve this every single day. Thank you for your support, and I wish you a safe and wonderful holiday season.
KPBS Brings Broadway to You
Enjoy magnificent theater productions right in the comfort of your home with “Great Performances: Best of Broadway!” This month, the series will bring four incredible productions to you on Friday evenings in November and the following Sunday afternoon.
On November 6, watch Tony Award-winning actor James Corden star as Francis Henshall in the comedy “One Man, Two Guvnors.”
On November 13, watch “Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles,” a special in-depth documentary that tells the timeless story of Fiddler on the Roof. The project explores the reach and depth of the show, highlighting the many ways in which it spans across generations and cultures.
On November 20, watch “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn,” the dazzling 2016 Tony-nominated musical that tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of Broadway—as well as his fiancé and dance partner—to settle down at an old farmhouse in Connecticut.
And on November 27, you won’t want to miss “Lea Salonga in Concert.” Captured in peak performance with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Tony Award-winner Lea Salonga performs the beloved songs she made famous throughout her Broadway career.
“One Man, Two Guvnors” and “Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn” air at 8 p.m., and “Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles” and “Lea Salonga in Concert” air at 9 p.m. on KPBS-2 and all air the following Sunday at noon on KPBS-TV.
Storytelling Shows That Offer a New Perspective
Isn’t it interesting to see the world through the eyes of another? And after a divisive political season, that might be just what we all need. On the dynamic programs “Snap Judgment” and “The Moth Radio Hour,” you’ll do just that.
Hosted by Glynn Washington and now in its 10th year, the “Snap Judgment” radio show puts stories to a beat for a cinematic, dramatic and raw storytelling experience. Spend only a few minutes with the program and you’ll be transported and captivated by its emotional and powerful tales.
And, on “The Moth Radio Hour,” you’ll hear humorous, heartbreaking, poignant, and unscripted true stories told live on stage. The show is so relatable, honest, and funny that you may find yourself retelling and relaying the stories you hear to your friends and family members.
Listen to “The Moth Radio Hour” on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and “Snap Judgment” on Saturdays at 8 p.m. on KPBS Radio. Visit kpbs.org/radio for links to each show’s website to get host biographies, information about podcasts, and more.
Preserving Truth and Freedom in the Philippines on “FRONTLINE: A Thousand Cuts”
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is on a horrifying mission. He will not stop until he erodes democracy, effectively promotes disinformation campaigns, and strangles the country’s free press.
As chronicled in the brand-new, Sundance-selected film “A Thousand Cuts,” journalist Maria Ressa puts her life on the line to defend the truth and democracy that Filipinos deserve. She questions Duterte’s determination to strip his country of its freedoms and incite fear and conformity among his people.
Produced, written, and directed by Ramona S. Diaz, the film simply cannot be missed.
Tuesday, November 17 at 10 p.m. on KPBS-TV
“Rise of the Nazis” Explores How Germany Fell Into the Hands of Fascists
How, exactly, did Adolf Hitler rise to power as the Führer?
Join KPBS on an in-depth exploration of Nazi Germany on “Rise of the Nazis.” The three-episode series is told through the eyes of Hitler’s inner circle, those who paved his way to power and those who tried to stop him.
From political scheming to the breach and dismantling of democracy, the series asks important questions: How did Germany fall into the hands of fascists? And what warning signs, decisions, and judgments could have stopped Hitler and changed the course of history?
Tuesdays, November 10, 17, and 24 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV
Politics, Charisma, and Secrets on “MASTERPIECE: Roadkill”
If you enjoy political dramas, you’ll love the brand-new thriller “Roadkill” on “MASTERPIECE.”
Hugh Laurie (House) stars as Peter Laurence, a self-made, charismatic politician who has racked up many enemies. As his personal revelations spiral, he is shamelessly untroubled by guilt or remorse, expertly walking a high wire between glory and catastrophe as he seeks to further his own agenda while others plot to bring him down. However, events show just how hard it is, for both an individual and a country, to leave the past behind. With enemies so close to home, can Peter Laurence ever outrun his own secrets to win the ultimate prize?
Sundays, November 1-22 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV
“NOVA: Saving Notre-Dame”
Nine grueling, intense hours. That’s how long firefighters worked to save Notre-Dame cathedral after its roof erupted into flames and engulfed the structure. While firefighters saved much of the cathedral, Paris came close to losing eight centuries of history.
“NOVA: Saving Notre-Dame” explores how engineers and scientists are performing the dangerous and daunting task of protecting and rebuilding the landmark. Join researchers, scientists, and other experts as they explain the painstaking process of repairing the stained-glass windows, the ceiling’s original limestone, and more.
Wednesday, November 25 at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV
“Santa’s Wild Home”
Two New “Nature” Programs to Watch
“Nature” is always here to take you to new lands and introduce you to the world’s most interesting animals.
On “Nature’s Primates,” you’ll follow a two-year expedition across the globe to get to know this dynamic group of mammals. From their use of tools to their ability to self-medicate, swim, hunt and form friendships, primates are fascinating to study. Join us to learn more about the other species in the order of animals that are our close kin.
And on “Nature’s Santa’s Wild Home,” you’ll get an intimate look into life in Lapland, the fabled land of Santa Claus and actual home of tenacious wildlife like reindeer, wolverines, brown bears, and more.
“Primates” airs Wednesdays, November 4-18 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV
“Santa’s Wild Home” airs Wednesday, November 25 at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV
Tune in to KPBS this Holiday Season
Spend Christmas Day with “Call the Midwife”
It’s December 1965, and Nonnatus House is abuzz with holiday cheer. But their traditional Christmas celebrations are derailed when Sister Monica Joan is rushed to the hospital and Trixie is horrified to receive a subscription to the Marriage Bureau as a holiday gift. The Circus arrives in Poplar, and a deeply moving birth reminds us why we keep coming back for more “Call the Midwife” season after season.
“Call the Midwife” Holiday Special airs on December 25 at 9:00 p.m.
End 2020 With a Special Celebration of America’s Resilience
Join KPBS for “United in Song: A Celebration of America’s Resilience”—an evening of powerful performances to unite and celebrate our country. The special will affirm our commitment to come together as Americans through the arts. Featuring a special performance by Denyce Graves, the 90-minute concert and fireworks finale will take place at historic Mount Vernon and serve as a moving tribute to our collective American fortitude.
“United in Song: A Celebration of America’s Resilience” airs on December 31 at 8 p.m.
End 2020 With a Special Celebration of America’s Resilience
Join KPBS for “United in Song: A Celebration of America’s Resilience”—an evening of powerful performances to unite and celebrate our country. The special will affirm our commitment to come together as Americans through the arts. Featuring a special performance by Denyce Graves, the 90-minute concert and fireworks finale will take place at historic Mount Vernon and serve as a moving tribute to our collective American fortitude.
“United in Song: A Celebration of America’s Resilience” airs on December 31 at 8 p.m.
Many Ways to Give
Make a Year-End Gift
We know that this has been a financially difficult year for so many of our viewers and listeners. As you consider your charitable year-end giving, you may want to consider the many ways you can support KPBS without making a cash gift.
When you make a gift from a Donor Advised Fund at a local community foundation or charitable financial institution, you can utilize charitable funds you have already set aside.
You can make a gift with your IRA by designating a portion of your annual distribution to KPBS. When you do, you can receive tax benefits on that income.
Gifts of appreciated stock or mutual funds are also a great way to maximize your investments and bypass possible capital gains, allowing you to save your cash for other important things.
And, did you know that through the CARES act, you can deduct up to $300 in 2020 for charitable cash gifts, even if you don’t itemize and you take the standard deduction.
There are many ways to make a year-end gift and receive tax benefits while supporting the KPBS programming and news that you depend on and love.
We would love to talk to you about any of these options and others. Please contact Alex Kim, Interim Associate General Manager of Development & Grants, at (619) 594-7822 or at [email protected] with any questions you may have.
Vehicle Donation
Working from home? If so, you’re probably driving less often—so maybe it’s time to say goodbye to the car you’re not using anymore and donate it to KPBS. We’ll handle the pickup and the sale of your unwanted vehicle, then send you all the tax documents you’ll need for the donation. We accept cars, trucks, boats, and even RVs. Donating is easy. To learn more, call 877-572-7227 or give online at www.kpbs.org/car.
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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