

ALL NEW EPISODES
• NOVA
• NATURE
• SECRETS OF THE DEAD NEW LOCAL PROGRAMS
• ASK THE DNR
• PRESSING MATTERS
• DESTINATION MICHIGAN
NATURE: SILVERBACK PREMIERES OCTOBER 27
Fall is here, bringing colder weather, changing leaves, and the delights of pumpkin spice lattes, caramel apples, and wagon rides. As you enjoy the crisp air and visits to cider mills, it’s also the perfect time to think about the future.
I’ve been your Major/Planned Giving Officer for over a year now, and I’ve been in fundraising for more than six and a half years. While I work with donors year-round in various ways to support the station, this month, we’re focusing on estate planning.
October 21-27, 2024, is National Estate Planning Awareness Week. Estate planning safeguards more than just finances; it protects what matters most. It ensures that your wishes are carried out regarding your finances and the distribution of your assets. Proper estate planning can also minimize the taxes your heirs will have to pay, allow you to continue supporting causes you care about—like WCMU—through planned gifts, endowments, or charitable trusts, and help you create your legacy.
We are profoundly grateful for your ongoing support of WCMU Public Media. Your contributions make it possible for us to continue delivering the high-quality programming and educational resources that our community relies on. Whether it’s trusted news coverage, quality evening programming, or engaging children’s content, your generosity ensures that WCMU remains a vital resource for all.
As we look ahead, your support will be more crucial than ever. We remain committed to providing the programs you love, and with your help, we can continue to grow and serve our community. This letter is a way for me to express gratitude and remind donors of their importance in supporting the station’s mission. We could not do it without you, and for that, we are so thankful!
THINK WEDNESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS in OCTOBER
Explore groundbreaking science, history, and wildlife with NOVA, Secrets of the Dead, and Nature. Dive into compelling stories that expand your mind every Wednesday night.
Think Wednesday on PBS brings you an evening of captivating programs that explore the wonders of our world and beyond. This month, don’t miss a special presentation of NOVA: The Solar System, where you’ll journey through the planets and uncover the mysteries of our celestial neighbors. Then, Secrets of the Dead reveals the untold story of Mozart’s Sister, shedding light on her remarkable yet overshadowed legacy. Finally, Nature presents Silverbacks, a close-up look at the powerful and endangered gorillas of Africa. Tune in for unforgettable programs of discovery, history, and nature.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 9, 10PM
Learn the untold story of Maria Anna Mozart, older sister to Wolfgang and a musical prodigy in her own right. Could she have helped write some of her famous brother’s earliest music?
NATURE: SILVERBACK BEGINS WED., OCT. 2, 9PM
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23, 8PM
Follow filmmaker Vianet Djenguet as he documents a grueling but vital mission to habituate a notoriously protective 450-pound silverback, in a last-ditch effort to save the critically endangered Eastern lowland gorillas from extinction.
Antiques Roadshow: Spooky & Kooky | OCT. 28, 9PM Nature: Dracula’s Hidden Kingdom | OCT. 30, 8PM Secrets of the Dead: Field of Vampires | OCT. 30, 10PM
See page 18 for PBS Kids Halloween Specials!
VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE
TUES, OCT. 1, 9PM
Watch the Vice Presidential debate for insights into key national issues. Citizen Nation delves into the power of civic engagement and the impact of every vote. Join John Leguizamo on VOCES America Historia as he uncovers the rich Latinx history of the U.S. Finally, Thursday nights feature Native America, exploring Indigenous cultures and histories.
TUESDAYS AT 9PM, STARTS OCT. 8
This four-part documentary series is an inspiring coming-of-age story that follows teenagers from across America as they face off in the nation’s premier civics competition. Culminating in a championship showdown in the nation’s capital, high school students with diverse personal and political backgrounds grapple with critical questions about democracy.
WEDNESDAY. OCT. 4 & 11, 9PM
The acclaimed PBS documentary series VOCES features the best of Latino arts, culture and history and shines a light on current issues that impact Latino Americans. Devoted to exploring the rich diversity of the Latino experience, VOCES presents new and established filmmakers and brings their powerful and illuminating stories to a national audience.
THURSDAYS AT 10PM, STARTS OCT. 10
This four-part Native-directed series reveals the beauty and power of today’s Indigenous world. Smashing stereotypes, it follows the brilliant engineers, bold politicians, and cutting-edge artists who draw upon Native tradition to build a better 21st century.
October brings fresh episodes of WCMU Public Media’s original programming, showcasing the best of Michigan and beyond. Ask the DNR returns with experts from the Department of Natural Resources answering your questions on outdoor activities, wildlife, and conservation. Pressing Matters dives into important stories impacting our region, featuring in-depth analysis and local perspectives. Meanwhile, Destination Michigan continues to explore the unique places and people that make the state special, offering viewers a new adventure this October.
THURSDAY, OCT. 3, 7PM
Join us on Thursday, October 3 at 7PM when Ask the DNR returns for an hour-long special. Join host and outdoor enthusiast Bob Garner when he asks YOUR questions of our expert panel. Chad Stewart, Deer Management Specialists, Joe Molnar, Traverse City Customer Service Center, and Mark Tonello, DNR Fisheries Biologist will join Bob to give answers to your questions LIVE!
FRIDAY, OCT. 25, 7PM
Understanding the issues and concerns voters have leading up the general election, plus managing invasive species in our waters on the next edition of Pressing Matters.
THURSDAY, OCT. 31, 9PM
On this episode of Destination Michigan, we’ll paddle our way down the scenic Crystal River in Glen Arbor and marvel at the phenomenal views. Then, we’ll satisfy your need for speed on the water when we chase the checkered flag at the boat racing school in Constantine. Next, it’s fun for everyone when we visit the Lewis Adventure Farm in New Era where we’ll pet animals, cruise down a slide, and sample tasty treats. Plus, we’ll get our thumbs green in Otsego County and discover the important role native plants play in your landscaping creations.
SATURDAY NIGHTS AT 11PM
Explore the best original music — including contemporary and traditional rock, blues, country, folk, soul and worldbeat — in uninterrupted full concerts recorded live in Austin, Texas.
OCT. 5 | OCT. 12 |
OCT. 19 | OCT. 26 |
Gary Clark Jr. / Black Pumas
Maggie Rogers / Gracie Abrams
Jacob Collier / Nickel Creek
Brittany Howard
Through the decades, the Kennedy Center has been at the forefront of reflecting America’s diverse performing arts culture. Each program is captured to match the unique style of the artists, connecting the television audience to these culture-maker’s perspectives, stories, and art.
OCT. 11, 10PM | OCT. 18, 10PM | Snarky Puppy Alonzo Kings’ Line Ballet
Émigré, FRIDAY, OCT. 25, 9PM
An international cast joins the New York Philharmonic for the American premiere of Emigre, a semi-staged oratorio that tells an unusual story of Jewish refugees during World War II. Following the Kristallnacht pogrom of 1938, to escape the looming Nazi threat, two brothers are sent halfway around the world to Shanghai. Otto cherishes his heritage, while Josef seeks a new path, and falls in love with Lina, a Chinese woman recovering from the loss of her mother in the Nanjing Massacre.
The acclaimed series returns with Professor Gates exploring the mysteries, surprises and revelations hidden in the family trees of popular figures. TUESDAYS AT 7:00 p.m.
Gathering of legends with all original performers singing their greatest jammin’ hits. Friday, June 7 at 8:30 p.m.
Vice Presidential Debate Live Coverage
NOVA: The Solar System Storm Worlds
Destination Michigan Under the Radar Michigan
VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos Threads in the American Tapestry
Midsomer Murders
The Stitcher Society, Part 2
Moonflower Murders on Masterpiece
Antiques Roadshow
Vintage Philadelphia
Citizen Nation Chasing Victory
NOVA: The Solar System Strange Worlds
Secrets of the Dead Returning to Babylon
Reagan: American Experience An American Crusade
VOCES
Mambo Legends: The Music Never Dies
Luna & Sophie Death on the Havel
Van Der Valk on Masterpiece Hope in Amsterdam, Part 2
POV In The Rearview (Continues to 11:30 p.m.)
Frontline
Secrets of the Dead Mozart’s Sister
Destination Michigan Under the Radar Michigan Native America From Caves to Cosmos
VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos Solidarity in a New Era
Midsomer Murders Happy Families, Part 2
Moonflower Murders on Masterpiece
Antiques Roadshow
Vintage Salt Lake City, 2020
Citizen Nation In The Fray
NOVA: The Solar System Volcano Worlds
Destination Michigan Under the Radar Michigan
The Art of Home: A Wind River Story
Midsomer Murders
Scarecrow Murders, Part 2
Moonflower Murders on Masterpiece
Antiques Roadshow
Vintage Los Angeles, 2020
Next at the Kennedy Center Snarky Puppy: The Family We Make
Luna & Sophie Taxi Driver
Van Der Valk on Masterpiece Secrets in Amsterdam, Part 1
POV Twice Colonized (Continues to 11:30 p.m.)
Frontline
Secrets of the Dead The Herculaneum Scrolls
Native America Nature to Nations
Next at the Kennedy Center Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet: Deep River (Continues to 11:30 p.m.)
Luna & Sophie Girl Without A Name
Van Der Valk on Masterpiece Secrets in Amsterdam, Part 2
POV Tokyo Uber Blues
Discover
The acclaimed series makes a return to Sunday nights on PBS. A historical drama for a modern audience, starring Mark Rylance & Damian Lewis. SUNDAY, OCT. 27, 10:00 p.m.
Citizen Nation The Hustle VOCES Latino Vote 2024
NOVA: The Solar System Icy Worlds
Destination Michigan Under the Radar Michigan
Great Performances Emigre
Midsomer Murders For Death Prepare, Part 2
Secrets of the Dead The Civil War’s Lost Massacre
Native America Cities of the Sky
Luna & Sophie Irina Marlow Murder Club on Masterpiece
Antiques Roadshow Kooky and Spooky
Citizen Nation Agree to Disagree
NOVA: The Solar System Wandering Worlds
Wolf Hall on Masterpiece
VOCES Our Texas, Our Vote
Frontline
Secrets of the Dead Field of Vampires
Destination Michigan Under the Radar Michigan Native America New World Rising
This October, PBS brings a special lineup of Saturday daytime cooking shows, featuring culinary experts and chefs from around the world. From classic recipes to innovative dishes, these shows offer inspiration and tips for every home cook. BAKING WITH JULIA AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN LIFE OF
PATI’S MEXICAN TABLE COOK’S COUNTRY LIDIA’S KITCHEN
CHRISTOPHER KIMBALL’S MILK STREET TELEVISION
The renowned cookbook author shares favorite recipes from her kitchen and the stories behind them.
TUESDAYS AT 7:00 p.m.
Saturdays & Sundays, 8:00 p.m.
Follow eight talented home cooks from different regions of the country as they compete weekly with their most memorable recipes.
Saturdays at 9:00 p.m.
Using his “wet-on-wet” technique, Bob paints natural scenes with bold strokes across the canvas, from cascading waterfalls to snowcovered forests.
Contact
Custom furniture-maker Tom McLaughlin turns design inspiration into easy-to-follow projects for woodworkers at every skill level.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23, 9:00 p.m.
Are
Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00 p.m.
Join Adventures with Purpose host Richard Bangs as we journey across the planet in search of ecological challenges and solutions.
Sundays at 7:00 p.m.
Host Georgia Pellegrini showcases unique people who are artisans and craftsmen, preserving the traditions of their cultures while pursuing their passions.
Learn the untold story of Maria Anna Mozart, older sister to Wolfgang and a musical prodigy in her own right.
SUNDAY, OCT. 13, 10:00 p.m.
NOVA Einstein’s Quantum Riddle
37th Hispanic Heritage Awards
Big Cats 24/7
Reagan: American Experience Lifeguard
VOCES
Mambo Legends: Music Never Dies
NOVA: The Solar System Storm Worlds
Roadtrip Nation Start Up
NOVA: The Solar System Storm Worlds
VOCES
Mambo Legends: Music Never Dies
Big Cats 24/7
Reagan: American Experience An American Crusade
Next At The Kennedy Center Snarky Puppy: The Family We Make
NOVA: The Solar System Strange Worlds
Roadtrip Nation Start Up
NOVA: The Solar System Strange Worlds
Next At The Kennedy Center
Snarky Puppy: The Family We Make
Big Cats 24/7
In Their Own Words Jimmy Carter
Next At The Kennedy Center Alonzo King’s Likes Ballet: Deep River
NOVA: The Solar System Volcano Worlds
Roadtrip Nation Start Up
Secrets of the Dead Jurassic Fortunes
American Masters A Song for Cesar
Wonders of Mexico
Chic Featuring Nile Rodgers Jazz A Vienne
Secrets of the Dead Returning to Babylon
Genius by Stephen Hawking
Secrets of the Dead Returning to Babylon
Chic Featuring Nile Rodgers Jazz A Vienne
Nature Super Cats: Extreme Lives
Jazz Music Awards 2023
Secrets of the Dead Mozart’s Sister
Genius by Stephen Hawking
Secrets of the Dead Mozart’s Sister
Jazz Music Awards 2023
Nature Pumas: Legends of the Ice Mountains
In Their Own Words Angela Merkel
Secrets of the Dead The Herculaneum Scrolls
Genius by Stephen Hawking
Great Performances at the Met
NOVA: The Solar System Volcano Worlds
Next At The Kennedy Center
Alonzo King’s Likes Ballet: Deep River
Nature Silverback
American Experience Roberto Clemente
Great Performances Emigre
NOVA: The Solar System Icy Worlds
Roadtrip Nation Start Up
NOVA: The Solar System Icy Worlds
Great Performances Emigre
Nature Dracula’s Hidden Kingdom
NATURE: DRACULA’S HIDDEN KINGDOM
Discover Transylvania, one of Europe’s last true wildernesses in central Romania. Home to wolves, lynxes, brown bears, bats and more THURSDAY, OCT. 31, 9:00 p.m.
Secrets of the Dead The Herculaneum Scrolls
Great Performances at the Met
Nature Gorilla
Never Drop The Ball
Secrets of the Dead
The Civil War’s Lost Massacre
Genius by Stephen Hawking
Secrets of the Dead
The Civil War’s Lost Massacre
Secrets of the Dead Field of Vampires
YOU ARE SMARTER THAN YOU THINK
In Genius by Stephen Hawking, Professor Stephen Hawking
challenges a selection of volunteers to think like the greatest geniuses in history and solve some of humanity’s most enduring questions.
MONDAY NIGHTS STARTING at 10PM
On the MICHIGAN LEARNING CHANNEL
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31
CAT IN THE HAT KNOWS A LOT ABOUT HALLOWEEN 9AM 9:30AM 10AM
ARTHUR AND THE HAUNTED TREEHOUSE
WILD KRATTS: CREEPY CREATURES
I will make a map of my neighborhood so I know which places to visit while I’m trick-or-treating.
My parents and I will talk about what to expect on Halloween night. We will draw a map of the neighborhood to plan our route. I will walk (not run) from house to house.
I will stay with an adult.
I will always make sure an adult is with me and will not run off on my own.
I will greet my neighbors.
When a neighbor answers the door, I will use the Halloween version of hello: “Trick or treat!” I will practice so I can say the words loudly and with confidence.
I will only take what I’m offered and say thank you.
I will express gratitude at every stop by saying “thank you” - even if I pick up a candy that I don’t like.
I will be a good neighbor.
I know my neighbors work hard to take care of their yards so I will make sure I walk along the walkways instead of on the grass.
If I have allergies and can’t have candy, I’ll look for a teal pumpkin! I will look for houses that have a teal pumpkin on their porch because that means that they are providing a non-food alternative.
I will wait to eat candy until my parents say it’s okay.
I know I have to ask an adult before I eat candy.
I will be a helper.
I will be happy to help with Halloween tasks like filling the candy tray and handing out candy with my parents.
“The programs we see and hear entertain us, but more importantly, they enrich our lives. We always learn something new whenever we tune into our favorite programs, as well as new ones.” -George and Carol Quarderer
“As mom’s sight continues to diminish and she’s in the second half of her nineties it’s hearing the familiarity of her PBS favorite shows that adds quality and joy and smiles to her life. That’s exactly why my mother, Bob and I continue to support WCMU.” -Beth Garner
“We support WCMU and Public Media because we want honest, accurate and truthful reporting as well as the quality programming on Public Television.” -Steve Ross
“We support WCMU for the quality and variety of its programming, and also for its dedication to local news reporting and arts programming. Mid-Michigan would be a poorer place without WCMU, so we are happy to contribute!”-Barb Ross
“WCMU is the most reliable, least one-sided news station around. “I love shows on both radio and TV. Some of my favorite programs are Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me, Cook’s Country, Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street and the nightly news programs.” -Rose Prasad
“The learning opportunities provided to children and adults are worth the investment in public media. Central Michigan University’s support of WCMU provides opportunities to the citizens of Michigan to stay up to date on the happenings of our state.”-David Justin and Mary Anne Evans-Justin
ALMA
Ballyhoo Books and Brew
Garr Tool
BAY CITY
Fabiano Brothers
Hell’s Half Mile/Bay Arts
BELLAIRE
Grass River Natural Area
BIG RAPIDS
Galloup Guitars
FLINT
Flint Institute of Arts
HARBOR SPRINGS
New York Restaurant
Perry Farm Village
LANSING
Elderley Instruments
MACKINAW CITY
Mackinac State
Historic Parks
MARQUETTE
Travel Marquette
MIDLAND
Alden B. Dow
Home & Studio
Chippewa Nature Center
Dow Credit Union
Eastman Party Store
Midland Area Community Foundation
MyMichigan Health
Rallye Import Automotive
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Midland
CMU Bookstore
CMU Libraries and Friends of the CMU Libraries
Greentree Co-op Grocery
Krapohl Ford Lincoln
Mt. Pleasant Area
Community Foundation
Mt. Pleasant Tire Service
NABET-CWA Local 412
Northwind Investments
Silverberg Fine Jewelers
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan University Theatre at Central Michigan University
Valet Auto Care
OKEMOS
Michigan Humanities
Ameriprise Financial Osborne/Klein
American Spoon
Blissfest Music Organization
Petoskey Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation
Reusch Jewelers
Spring & Porter Restaurant
Consumers Energy Foundation
Enbridge Energy Partners
Mercantile Bank
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Wheatland Music Organization
Decorative Stitch
TRAVERSE CITY
Morse Moving and Storage
UNIVERSITY CENTER
Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum For
CMU Bookstore
Central Michigan University
Bovee University Center
E. Preston #202 Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 (989) 774-7493
We’re grateful for your generous contributions, which have enabled WCMU to continue delivering the vital news, engaging stories, and important discussions you depend on. Your support has empowered us to maintain the high standards of journalism and to spotlight the local narratives that matter to our community. Together, we’ve ensured that our community stays informed and united, and we look forward to building on this success with your continued support.
Every Monday, join 1A for ‘If You Can Keep It,’ a series that moves beyond the election headlines to focus on the real stakes for people, the country, and our democracy. Each week, 1A examines crucial issues like campaign costs, immigration, election security, and climate change, providing a deeper understanding of the mechanics that shape our governance.
With ‘If You Can Keep It,’ you’re not just following the news – you’re engaging in the fundamentals of our future. Don’t miss a moment of this pivotal series as we approach one of the most significant elections in recent history. Engage, question, and realize the impact of every vote with 1A and ‘If You Can Keep It,’
LISTEN TO 1A WEEKDAYS 11AM - 1PM HOSTED BY JENN WHITE
• Asian View at 5:04
• StarDate at 5:19 & 7:47
• BBC Topline at 6:42 & 8:42
• Marketplace Morning Report at 6:51 & 8:51
• The Children’s Bookshelf Wednesday at 11:04 a.m.
at 1:31
• Central Focus Wednesdays at 4:44
• Birdnote at 2:31 • StarDate at 7:04 •
• Central Focus Thursdays at 8:45 The Moth Radio Hour
• Central Focus Fridays at 2:34
at 8:35
at 8:35
The Childern’s Bookshelf at 8:37
Wait Wait... Don’t Tell Me Left, Right & Center
It’s Been A Minute Reveal TED Radio Hour Throughline
Planet Money/ How I Built This CodeSwitch/ Life Kit
The Moth Radio Hour
This American Life The Pulse The Splendid Table
Bullseye Wait Wait... Don’t Tell Me
All Things Considered
at 5:35
Homespun American Routes
Folk Alley The Juke Joint
Acoustic Café
Destination Out
PERFORMANCE TODAY
Hosted by Fred Childs
Sunday thru Friday at 7 p.m.
Hosted by Michael Barone
Saturday at 1 p.m.
SYMPHONY CAST
Hosted by Steve Seel
Saturday at 7 p.m.
Mobile Device
WCMU Website
Smart Speakers
In Your Car
THURSDAY at 3 p.m. SUNDAY at 2 p.m. Dive into a sea of symphonies and sonatas, 24/7 on WCMU Classical
Learn how to listen to WCMU Classical at WCMU.org/listen Join WCMU for two live performances of the DSO on WCMU Classical in October!
October 11 at 10:40 a.m.: Works by Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Peter Tchaikovsky, and more.
October 18 at 10:40 a.m.: Benjamin Britten’s Four Sea Interludes, and works by Anna Clyne and Jean Sibelius.
Smart TVs LEARN MORE AT WCMU.ORG/LISTEN SCAN HERE TO LEARN HOW TO LISTEN
We are thrilled to introduce the newest addition to the WCMU news team, AJ Jones. As a general assignment reporter, AJ brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to journalism to WCMU.
AJ is a graduate of the University of Michigan – Dearborn and a native of Metro Detroit. While at Michigan Public, AJ reported on a range of significant topics, including the UAW strikes, campus protests over the war in Gaza, and critical updates on education, the economy, criminal justice, and environmental reporting. His reporting has aired statewide on the Michigan Public Radio Network, including here on WCMU.
Here at WCMU, AJ is eager to learn more about central and northern Michigan, and the issues that matter to you. He invites you to reach out with tips, stories, and insights at alvin.jones@cmich.edu.
Please join us in welcoming AJ to the WCMU family. And tune in to hear his reporting every day on Morning Edition, Here & Now and All Things Considered!
Ignite Your Weekend with ‘Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!’
Even as the world whirls in chaos, Peter Sagal and Bill Kurtis keep their cool. Tune into ‘Wait Wait,’ the hour-long quiz show that tests your knowledge with a comedic twist. The week’s news might spell disaster, but the laughs are always safe.
SATURDAYS @ 10AM
SUNDAYS @ 4PM
Discover how you can make a lasting impact through thoughtful giving. By including WCMU Public Media in your estate plans, you can help ensure that future generations continue to enjoy trusted news, educational content, and inspiring programs.
During Planned Giving Week, we invite you to explore the many ways you can make a difference. From bequests to charitable trusts, your contributions can shape the future of public media.
Whether you’re passionate about supporting quality journalism, children’s programming, or arts and culture, Planned Giving offers a unique opportunity to align your values with your legacy.
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