SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2025
Big Cats 24/7, Season 2
Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 8 p.m.
The Gold on MASTERPIECE
Sunday, Oct. 5 at 10 p.m.
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LEARN MORE ON PAGE 6
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CONNECT MAGAZINE
Publisher Mitch Gelman
Executive Editor
Amanda Hayden
Editor Lauren Easton
Graphic Designer
Alexis Cleveland
Photographers
Eric Hayden
Francis Tavino
VP, Philanthropy
Shannon Hanrahan
VP, Sales & Marketing
Rich Ezzo
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chair Michael Humphrey
Vice-Chair Francisco Suárez
Michael D'Eredita
Diane Gayeski
Thomas Griffith
Jon Jensen
Peter G. King
Don McPherson
Daniel Mera
Maria Murray
Tere Paniagua
Treasurer Greg Fedele
Secretary Hanka Grabovica
Deryn Pomeroy
Vijay Srinivas Colleen Viggiano
Directors Emeriti Shiu-Kai Chin Robert Daino Evelyn Ingram Ronald A. Teplitsky
Robert J. Daino
Broadcast and Education Center 415 W. Fayette St. Syracuse, NY 13204
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© 2025 WCNY CONNECT Magazine (USPS 863060) (ISSN 1541-261X) is published bimonthly by The Public Broadcasting Council of Central New York, Inc. dba WCNY. All rights reserved. Subscription is a benefit of paid membership, covered by membership dues.
President's Letter
I watched, as many of you did, while the United States Senate and House of Representatives struggled to listen with open minds as they considered whether to fund public media. In the end, the vote to defund the Corporation of Public Broadcasting fell almost entirely along partisan lines, with Republicans voting en masse to cut PBS and NPR support and Democrats vainly trying to maintain funding.
As disappointing as the result was, what concerns me even more was the clear inability to listen—the fact that our political leaders talked at one another, not with one another, throughout this months-long legislative process.
With your help, we know that WCNY will continue the vital work it does to serve our communities in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.
One of the key parts of our commitment is to help facilitate a truly constructive, bipartisan conversation across our region and the nation.
“Balancing Act with John Katko,” a show produced here at WCNY with former Congressman John Katko as its host, aims to tame the circus that has become two-party politics. This month, “Balancing Act” will be distributed weekly to more than 80 percent of the U.S. viewing audience through the WORLD channel and selected PBS stations in red, blue, and purple states.
In a media landscape polarized by extreme viewpoints, “Balancing Act” seeks to provide a centrist perspective, striving to bring balance to discussions on divisive political issues—while adding a touch of fun along the way. Katko earned top ratings from the Lugar Center at Georgetown University for his bipartisan record in Congress and was an active member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, a group of Democratic and Republican lawmakers committed to compromise and co-sponsoring legislation.
The show will feature a diverse range of guests, including members of Congress, authors, entertainers, professors, and other notable voices, as it explores how to reach consensus in a divided country.
Public media, like our nation, stands at a moment of consequence but also of opportunity. At WCNY, we remain committed to engaging viewers, broadening the range of civil discourse, and reminding people of the value of listening and speaking to one another with respect once again.
Mitch Gelman President & CEO of WCNY
DEFUNDED, NOT DEFEATED:
Moving Forward After the Senate Decision
The federal government has voted to eliminate previously approved funding for public media.
As a result, federal support for WCNY has been cut, representing a loss of more than $1.3 million annually, or about 20% of our budget.
That’s the bad news.
The good news is that WCNY serves more than 500,000 households across Central New York and the Mohawk Valley, and we are resilient—thanks to the strength of our community and our partners.
More than a decade ago, WCNY began developing new, creative, and serviceoriented sources of revenue. Today, these include educational initiatives like Enterprise America, an experiential fiscal literacy program for middle schoolers supported by city and sponsor funding, and the WCNY Entertainment Academy, a grant-funded film and production training program for adults that offers a direct path to union membership and job placement.
Thanks to the success of these programs and others, like facility rentals and video production services for local hospitals, companies, and nonprofits, WCNY is not facing a shutdown.
But we can’t absorb a 20% cut without consequences.
This funding loss is a direct threat to the local programs and services that define our mission and serve our region every day.
For lifelong education and entertainment, Bob and I think it is vitally important to support Public Broadcasting. We rely on PBS programming, particularly the Create channel, “NOVA,” “Masterpiece Mystery,” and the balanced coverage provided by “PBS NewsHour.” Ever since moving to Central New York in 1998, our favorite radio station has been WCNY Classic FM. After I retired, I began volunteering at WCNY, and the staff always make me feel like a valued member of their team. WCNY is an integral part of our lives.”
– Anita and Robert L. Wagner, Solvay
Here’s what’s at stake right now:
• Classic FM is one of the few remaining non-commercial, locally hosted classical music stations in the country. This funding cut threatens our ability to bring you expertly curated classical music, hosted by local voices who know and love this community.
• Documentaries and special programs that shine a light on critical issues, from the health of our lakes and forests to policing and justice, to the lived experiences of caregivers, families navigating end-of-life decisions, and neighbors facing homelessness.
• Stories that often go unheard, such as regional inclusive sports coverage and powerful tributes to our communities’ veterans.
• Free, educational, and commercial-free children’s programming that helps young minds grow throughout Central New York.
• Special programming from trusted global sources like the BBC and American Public Television (APT), which WCNY must pay for a la carte.
• These cuts also mean that an untold number of future programs will not be made. Important issues will go unreported. Vital stories will go untold.
These cuts also mean that future programs may not be made. Important issues may go unreported. Vital stories may go untold.
This is not just about losing specific programs. It is about what happens when we lose the power to tell our own stories.
When local voices are silenced, we don’t just lose programming.
We lose enrichment . We lose learning
We lose connection. We lose opportunity
We lose ourselves.
But you can prevent that.
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Your support today can help replace the funding our government has chosen to withdraw. You can keep WCNY strong. You can put the public back in public media. Your investment ensures continued access to trusted culture, journalism, education, and civic connection.
[Include a CNY reach map]
If every member gave just $5 more per month, we could:
• Sustain Classic FM and its local hosts
• Produce more in-depth local documentaries
• Expand free educational content for children
• Tell more untold stories from our region
For less than the cost of a cup of coffee each month, you can protect everything WCNY brings to Central New York.
Visit wcny.org/protect to help preserve WCNY’s independent, non-commercial service that informs and uplifts the region we proudly call home.
Shannon Hanrahan VP of Philanthropy
One Broadcaster, Four Channels
WCNY’s four digital channels can be viewed for free across Central New York.
Local WCNY Highlights
Ivory Tower
Watch Thursdays & Fridays at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV
"Ivory Tower" is a weekly roundtable discussion focusing on news and events from the perspective of academicians across Central New York. The show is hosted by David Chanatry, Professor of Journalism at Utica University.
Balancing Act with John Katko Watch Fridays at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV
“Balancing Act with John Katko” returns with weekly episodes that walk the tightrope of the nation’s most divisive political issues. Host John Katko brings competing voices into the same ring for balanced debate and real efforts to find the common ground.
CONNECT NY: Public Transportation Watch Monday, Sept. 29 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Host David Lombardo explores the state of alternatives to personal cars in Upstate New York. We'll highlight investments in public transportation, efforts to promote bicycling, and the future of walkable communities.
September Highlights October Highlights
Local 1196: A Steelworkers Strike
Monday, Sept. 1 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Set against the backdrop of a town struggling with poverty and a politically divided nation, this film follows striking steelworkers who had long relied on ATI for steady employment, often referring their own children to work there.
Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect
Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Explore the life and legacy of the nation’s first African American Supreme Court justice, Thurgood Marshall, from his work with the NAACP to his 1967 appointment to the nation’s highest court.
Big Cats 24/7, Season 2
Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Season two returns to the Okavango Delta, Botswana, to follow the lives of lions, cheetahs, and leopards. With extraordinary access to a rarely visited area, the Big Cat 24/7 team works together to follow the cats’ lives around the clock.
Sacred Planet with Gulnaz Khan (Four-Part Series)
Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Examine the impact of climate change on sacred places worldwide with journalist Gulnaz Khan and meet faith leaders applying ancient wisdom and resilience to confront the crisis with hope and action.
NOVA: Human (Five-Part Series)
Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Around 300,000 years ago, Homo sapiens emerged in Africa—one of at least seven human species alive at the time. Today, we are the only surviving human species, and our impact on the planet is undeniable. How did this happen? How did we become… us?
American Experience: Hard Hat Riot
Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Revisit New York in 1970, when student protestors against the Vietnam War violently clashed with construction workers, ushering in a new political and cultural divide that would redefine the American political landscape.
Maigret on MASTERPIECE (Six-Part Series)
Sunday, Oct. 5 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Meet Chief Inspector Maigret as he solves Paris’ most complex crimes using unorthodox methods and a fierce sense of justice. To prevail, he must outwit the city’s most ruthless criminals while confronting his own troubled past.
Secrets of the Dead: The Rise & Fall of the Colosseum
Wednesday, Oct. 8 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Discover the rise and fall of ancient Rome through its greatest icon, the Colosseum. A marvel of engineering and a symbol of power, the arena showcased Rome’s wealth, ambition, and ultimately its decline.
American Masters: Marlee Matlin—Not Alone Anymore
Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 9:30 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Explore the life and career of actress Marlee Matlin, whose meteoric rise began in 1987 when she became the first Deaf actor to win an Academy Award for her role in "Children of a Lesser God."
Independent Lens: Ratified
Monday, Oct. 20 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
"Ratified" brings the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to life through Virginia’s pivotal ratification battle. Led by Black women and a diverse coalition, the film explores the fight to enshrine gender equality in the U.S. Constitution.
Nature: Walrus—Life on Thin Ice
Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Join scientist Kirk Johnson as he travels across the Arctic to explore the hidden world of the walrus. From their ancient origins to their cultural significance and uncertain future, he reveals how these giants have adapted for centuries.
American Experience: Kissinger (Two-Part Series)
Monday, Oct. 27 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Explore the legacy of Henry Kissinger, the influential and controversial diplomat who shaped U.S. foreign policy under six presidents and embodied the contradictions of American diplomacy in the 20th century.
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Featured Program
The Gold on MASTERPIECE (Six-Part Series)
Premieres Sunday, Oct. 5 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
On November 26, 1983, six armed men broke into the Brink’s-Mat security depot near London’s Heathrow Airport and inadvertently stumbled across gold bullion worth £26 million—the disposal of which sparked a vast international money laundering operation and left controversy and murder in its wake. Inspired by extensive research and interviews with those involved, "The Gold" is a pulsating dramatization that journeys into a 1980s world awash with cheap money and loosened morals to tell this extraordinary and epic story in its entirety for the first time.
Celebrate your community’s iconic local or regional dish! Apply for a grant-funded Hungry for History® marker from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation.
Visit wgpfoundation.org or call (315) 913-4060 to learn about program guidelines, eligibility and how to apply.
Feldmeier
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month on WCNY-TV
Sponsored by:
Velvet, Season 2
Thursday, Sept. 18 at 10:30 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Season 2 begins as Alberto returns from his honeymoon with Cristina, only to discover that his scheming brother-in-law, Enrique, has unexpectedly seized control of Velvet. From Walter Presents, in Spanish with English subtitles.
VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos
Saturday, Sept. 20 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Join actor John Leguizamo on a quest to uncover Latino and Latina heroes and shine a light on their often overlooked contributions, exploring both famous and forgotten stories from Latino history.
38th Hispanic Heritage Awards
Friday, Sept. 26 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Join the Hispanic Heritage Foundation as it celebrates Latino history and culture and inducts the newest class of Hispanic Heritage Award honorees, featuring performances by some of the biggest names in Latin music.
Finding Your Roots: Latin Roots
Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Henry Louis Gates Jr. traces the family trees of musician Rubén Blades and journalist Natalie Morales, uncovering stories from across Latin America. Along the way, both guests discover long-hidden secrets their ancestors tried to keep buried.
American Masters: A Song for César
Saturday, Oct. 11 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Explore the remarkable life and enduring legacy of César Chávez, the influential civil rights activist and labor leader who used music to unite and inspire workers during the United Farm Workers’ historic fight for better conditions.
POV: Hummingbirds
Saturday, Oct. 11 at 9:30 p.m. on WCNY-TV
Meet Bordertown best friends Silvia and Beba as they make the most of one final summer together while facing uncertain futures. This coming-of-age story celebrates the power of friendship and joy as acts of survival and resistance.
September WCNY Daytime Schedule
October WCNY Daytime Schedule
Karen LaMonte (American, born 1967),
Lucent
Karen LaMonte. Photo: Martin Polak.
September Create Weekly Schedule
MON Legacy List with Matt Paxton
TUE GardenFit
WED Legacy List with Matt Paxton
THU America the Bountiful
FRI Modern Pioneering with Georgia Pellegrini
SAT Classical Stretch: By Essentrics
Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting
J Schwanke's Life in Bloom It's Sew Easy
Yndi Yoga Fit 2 Stitch
Yoga in Practice
Family Plot: Gardening in the Mid-South
Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting
The Best of Sewing with Nancy
Yndi Yoga Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting
SUN Happy Yoga with Sarah Starr It's Sew Easy
Painting and Travel with Roger & Sarah Bansemer
Paint This with Jerry Yarnell
The Joy of Painting with Nicholas Hankins
Pocket Sketching with Kath Macaulay
Painting and Travel with Roger & Sarah Bansemer
Canvasing the World with Sean Diediker
and Travel with Roger & Sarah Bansemer
This Old House
Ask This Old House
J Schwanke's Life in Bloom
Yndi Yoga
Yoga in Practice
Ask This Old House
Ask This Old House This Old House
Dining with the Chef Fresh Glass
Pati's Mexican Table George Hirsch Lifestyle
Cook's Country America's Test Kitchen
Steven Raichlen's Project Fire
Healthful Indian Flavors with Alamelu
Christopher Kimball's Milk Street Television
America's Test Kitchen
Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas Weekends with Yankee
Family Travel with Colleen Kelly
The Daytripper
Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi/ View Finders
Joseph Rosendo's Travelscope
Samantha Brown's Places to Love
Joseph Rosendo's Travelscope
Cycle Around Japan Highlights Samantha Brown's Places to Love
Growing a Greener World GardenSMART Various
Rick Steves' Europe
The Best of the Joy of Painting
Plot: Gardening in the Mid-South
September WORLD Weekly Schedule
September/October PBS KIDS Weekly Schedule
September Programming Schedule
See pages 14-18 for WCNY daytime, Create, WORLD, and PBS KIDS programming. Visit wcny.org for up-to-date programming.
Sacred Planet with Gulnaz Khan: The Heart of the World Firing Line with Margaret Hoover Antiques
Planet with Gulnaz Khan:
Flanders & Friends
Detectives
The Lawrence Welk Show: Famous Themes
Me More with Kelly Corrigan: Steve Kerr
Lantern, Rusty Patio Set
Becoming Frida Kahlo: A Star is Born
VOCES American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos— Solidarity in a New Era
Knocks: Winning Financial Journeys
October Programming Schedule
See pages 14-18 for WCNY daytime, Create, WORLD, and PBS KIDS programming. Visit wcny.org for up-to-date programming.
James
MEET THE HUNTER FAMILY:
Dad, Al Hunter
Voiced by Al Roker
Mom, Dot Hunter
Voiced by Holly Robinson Peete
Sister, Corky
Voiced by Kapri Ladd
Brother, Benny
Voiced by Lorenzo Ross
Neighbor, Ms. Joyce
Voiced by Sheryl Lee Ralph
Grandfather, Wallace Reed Hunter
Voiced by LeVar Burton
Don’t miss the premiere on Monday, Sept. 8 at 7:30 a.m. on WCNY-TV!
PBS KIDS' NEW ANIMATED FORECAST FOR FUN, LEARNING, AND ADVENTURE!
Get ready to chase clouds, decode climate clues, and brave the elements with “Weather Hunters,” a brand-new animated series from PBS KIDS® designed for children in grades K–2. Created by Emmy-winning weatherman and “Today” show host Al Roker, the series combines fun storytelling with STEM-based learning to spark curiosity about the world around us.
Each 22-minute episode follows 8-year-old Lily Hunter, a weather whiz and budding “weather detective,” and her close-knit family as they explore all kinds of weather, from rain, snow, and fog to thunder, lightning, and hurricanes. As the Hunters investigate the elements, young viewers are encouraged to ask questions, collect data, and discover how weather affects their homes, neighborhoods, and the planet.
Lily, voiced by Tandi Fomukong, is at the heart of every adventure. With her natural curiosity and boundless enthusiasm, she teams up with her supportive family to explore the science of weather, solve weather mysteries, and share vital information that helps their community and the planet. Whether they are tracking a snowstorm, explaining the science behind thunder, or delivering local forecasts, the Hunters are always on the case.
From sunny skies to swirling storms, “Weather Hunters” encourages environmental awareness, scientific thinking, and a lifelong love of learning with plenty of fun along the way.
James
MusicEducator
AWAR AWARD D
Congratulations to the 2024-25 Music Educator Award Honorees!
Sept. 2024 Honoree
Danielle Rausa
Cicero-North Syracuse High School
Oct. 2024 Honoree
Stephen Salem Liverpool High School
Nov. 2024 Honoree
Holly McCoy Henninger High School
Jan. 2025 Honoree
Joanna Kufs
Moravia Central School District
Feb. 2025 Honoree
Veronica Mainville Central Square School District
March 2025 Honoree
Liz Buell
Onondaga Hill Middle School
April 2025 Honoree
Brian Franco
Skaneateles High School
May 2025 Honoree
Stephanie Almeter
Fulton Junior High School
May 2025 Honoree
Carrie Foster
Fulton Junior High School
Liner Notes
We’ve had our ups and downs over the past few months. It’s been wonderful to chat with so many of you at the Bluegrass Ramble Picnic and the Syracuse Orchestra Summer Concerts. You’ll be seeing more of us soon, at the Syracuse Orchestra September Soirée on September 10 and the Canine Jamboree on September 20 (we’ll be walking dogs again for the Adoptable Dog Parade!).
Those were some of the wonderful “ups.” But we’ve had some “downs” as well, mainly due to the financial challenges brought on by the federal funding cuts. We want to give a special and heartfelt thank you to our listeners and members who have stepped up in recent weeks to provide additional support. Your generosity is helping ensure that WCNY Radio remains vital and continues to fill your days with music. Because of you, we’ve made great progress, but there’s still a long way to go. So, if you’ve been on the fence, please know that a contribution, as little as $5 per month, goes a long way toward keeping WCNY Radio with you all day, every day.
What else makes September so busy? In addition to our time out in the community, we’re preparing for the Classic FM Top 40 Listener Favorite Countdown. Tune in from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day beginning Monday, September 1, as we count down your favorites from Number 40 to Number 1. The full Top 40 list will be posted on our website once the countdown ends and will also appear in the November/December issue of CONNECT.
Nominate a music educator today at wcny.org/musiceducator.
The start of the school year also kicks off a new season for the Music Educator Awards. We’ll begin with a special audio broadcast of the WCNY-TV special “Our Teachers, Our Future: The 2024-25 Classic FM Music Educator Awards,” airing on Classic FM on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 4 at 8:30 a.m., and Friday, Sept. 5 at noon.
If you know a music educator who is making a difference the lives of their students, let us know! Fill out a nomination form on wcny.org/musiceducator. We look forward to another inspiring year of honoring these exceptional educators!
On October 1, we’ll welcome guest host Rita Paniagua for the Hispanic Heritage Month Special on Classic FM, Community FM, and a Spanish-language version on Pulso Central.
And of course, host Bruce Paulsen returns for his annual Halloween program, “The Concert Howl,” on Saturday, November 1. It’s a ghoulishly delightful night of “boo”-tiful music!
You can hear Classic FM, Community FM, Oldies, and Pulso Central anytime, anywhere. Go to wcny.org/radio to listen live and learn how to tune in via TuneIn and Alexa.
Thank you, as always, for listening to and supporting WCNY Radio!
Diane Jones Classic FM Program Manager Host/Producer of Feminine
Fusion
Classic FM Weekly Schedule
Central New York’s only classical music station.
Adam Fine
Diane Jones Bruce Paulsen Marie Lamb
Spencer Phillips Bill Knowlton
Jim Battaglia Joey Nigro Leo Rayhill
Setting the stage
FOR REGIONAL THEATRE IN CENTRAL NEW YORK.
THE HELLO GIRLS
September 10 – 28, 2025
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY PETER MILLS,
BOOK BY PETER MILLS AND CARA REICHEL
A heroic new musical about connection in a time of conflict.
THE 39 STEPS
October 22 – November 9, 2025
ADAPTED BY PATRICK BARLOW
A Hitchcock spoof with hair-raising hijinks.
A CHRISTMAS STORY
November 25 – December 28, 2025 BY PHILIP GRECIAN
The beloved holiday film, live onstage!
RELENTLESS
February 4 – 22, 2026
BY RAE BINSTOCK
A knockout new play about loyalty and legacy.
JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE
March 11 – 22, 2026
BY AUGUST WILSON
August Wilson’s mystical and heartbreaking masterpiece.
DISNEY’S FROZEN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL
May 13 – June 21, 2026
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY KRISTEN ANDERSON LOPEZ AND ROBERT LOPEZ, BOOK BY JENNIFER LEE
Sisterhood, stirring songs, and spectacular adventure.
315.443.3275
SYRACUSESTAGE.ORG
CAST MEMBERS IN THE SYRACUSE STAGE PRODUCTION OF “SENSE AND SENSIBILITY.” APRIL 23 - MAY 11, 2025.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month on Pulso Central
We are proud to celebrate the first anniversary of Pulso Central, Central New York’s first Spanish radio station, which began broadcasting on September 15, 2024. In just one year, its vibrant blend of Latin music and news has fostered a strong sense of community across the 19 counties it serves.
Supported by local organizations, community leaders, and Syracuse University faculty and students, Pulso Central has become the heartbeat of Spanish-speaking audiences throughout Central New York and the Mohawk Valley. Here’s to a year of impact—and many more to come—filled with music, connection, and cultural pride!
Rita Paniagua, one of the many founders of Pulso Central, leaders in Syracuse, and co-host of “Sabor Latino.”
Hispanic Heritage Month began as a weeklong celebration in 1968, established by President Lyndon Johnson. Thanks in part to the efforts of U.S. Representative Esteban Torres, it
was later expanded into a month-long observance. In 1988, National Hispanic Heritage Month was officially enacted.
From September 15 to October 15, we honor the rich heritage, culture, and countless contributions of the Hispanic community. Join us in celebrating the remarkable individuals who continue to shape and strengthen our nation.
In celebration of this special month, we’re honored to highlight Latino trailblazers from the past and present, both local and national, who have made significant contributions to our community in film, theater, sports, music, politics, science, and more.
Don’t miss the Hispanic Heritage Month Special airing on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. on Pulso Central.
Stephanie Gonzales Rawlings
Pulso Central Broadcasting Producer
HISTORICAL FIGURES
César Chávez
César Chávez was a trailblazing civil rights leader who helped transform the lives of farmworkers across America. From leading the Delano grape strike to securing fair wages, better working conditions, and access to health care, his legacy continues to inspire. ¡Sí se puede!
Ellen Ochoa
Ellen Ochoa joined NASA as a research engineer in 1988 and became an astronaut just two years later. In 1993, she made history as the first Hispanic American woman in space during a mission to study Earth’s ozone layer. She flew three more missions and later became the first Hispanic director of the Johnson Space Center.
LOCAL FIGURES
Bethaida “Bea” Gonzalez
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lin-Manuel Miranda revolutionized Broadway with “Hamilton,” reimagining American history through voices once left out. A Tony, Pulitzer, and Oscar winner, he’s also a passionate advocate for Puerto Rico—using his platform to inspire, uplift, and drive change.
MariaLourde Fallace broke barriers as the first Latina to lead a Syracuse city department, serving as head of the Commission for Women. She empowered youth through mentorship and launched SUNY Upstate’s “Medical Spanish” program, helping future doctors better serve Hispanic communities.
Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Syracuse, Bea González was the first in her family to earn a high school diploma. She went on to earn degrees from SUNY Binghamton and Syracuse University, breaking barriers in education and public service. González served on the Syracuse School Board, led the Common Council, and later
Suzette Melendez
Suzette Meléndez is a distinguished professor at Syracuse University’s College of Law, specializing in family law. A passionate advocate for women, children, and multicultural communities, she is a powerful voice for justice and inclusion both in and beyond the classroom.
MariaLourde Fallace
Community FM Weekly Schedule
Community-oriented programming, produced for and by Central New Yorkers.
STREAM LIVE OR ON-DEMAND AT WCNY.ORG/COMMUNITYFM
Community FM Feature
Check It Out
It’s 3rd and goal—who do you call to run your library book into the endzone? None other than this week’s Check It Outguest, former NFL running back and proud Betts Branch alum, Latavius Murray.
The Onondaga Central grad stopped by to chat with Yona and Tom about growing up at Betts, books that remind him of his dad, reading with his five kids, and leading the charge on the new Jon Diaz Community Center. Don’t miss this fun and heartfelt episode!
Listen to “Check It Out” and our other local podcasts at wcny.org/communityfm.
Bill Knowlton’s Bluegrass Ramble
with Leo Rayhill Jazz Network
Autumn Bucket List
Fall is in full swing across Central New York, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. From lively outdoor festivals and thrilling hayrides to actionpacked sporting events, there’s something for everyone. Explore these must-do activities to make the most of your fall bucket list!
Did You Know?
Early pumpkin pies were made by baking a mixture of spices, milk, and honey inside a hollowed-out pumpkin, which acted as the “crust.”
Alanna Manning Public Relations & Social Media Intern
Attend a Fall Festival
What better way to enjoy the season than by attending a festival dedicated to it? With numerous events happening across the region, you’re sure to find live music, local vendors, and plenty of delicious fall-themed food and drinks.
Hancock Harvest Festival
20 East Main Street, Hancock, NY 13783
Experience Fall Foliage
LaFayette Apple Festival
2444 Tully Farms Road, LaFayette, NY 13084
One of the best parts of the season? The changing leaves! As the foliage shifts from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, landscapes across the region become a feast for the eyes. Head to a scenic spot, keep an eye out for the stunning colors of fall, and don’t forget to snap a photo to capture the moment.
High Vista Nature Preserve
7556 Vincent Hill Road, Homer, NY 13077
Immerse Yourself in Sports
Fall River Cruises
7439 Hillside Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Get ready for fall sports! Whether it’s college, semipro, or professional, New York has it all. So throw on your jersey, prep your favorite tailgate recipes, and have a blast cheering on your team. Can’t make it to a game? Dive into sports history at one of New York’s many sports museums.
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
25 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326
Navigate a Corn Maze
Syracuse University
900 S Crouse Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13244
Think you have what it takes to conquer the twists and turns of a corn maze? Test your skills at a local farm! Will you split up from your group and race to the finish, or stick together and brave the winding paths as a united front? Either way, it’s a fun fall tradition that’s perfect for all ages.
Long Acre Farms
1342 Eddy Road, Macedon, NY 14502
Stoughton Farm 10898 NY-38, Newark Valley, NY 13811
National Estate Planning Awareness Week
National Estate Planning Awareness Week is observed each year during the third week of October. It’s a reminder that planning for the future is one of the most important and compassionate things you can do for your loved ones and the causes you care about.
According to research, more than half of American adults do not have a will or estate plan in place. While estate planning can feel overwhelming or even unnecessary for those not approaching retirement, the truth is that everyone—regardless of age, wealth, or life stage—benefits from having a plan. Estate plans help you ensure that your wishes are honored, your loved ones are protected, and your legacy is preserved.
As you consider your future, we invite you to reflect on the impact you can make by including WCNY in your estate plans.
Why Consider WCNY in Your Legacy Planning?
For over 60 years, WCNY has brought meaningful programming, lifelong learning, and trusted public media to Central New York and beyond. From PBS classics and groundbreaking documentaries to educational resources and local productions, WCNY informs, educates, and inspires.
A legacy gift—such as a bequest in your will, a gift of life insurance, or a charitable trust— ensures that WCNY can continue its mission for generations to come. These gifts cost nothing during your lifetime and offer a powerful way to make a lasting difference.
Benefits of Estate Planning
• Protect your loved ones with clear instructions and reduced legal complications
• Avoid unnecessary taxes or expenses with smart financial planning
• Support the causes you believe in through thoughtful charitable giving
• Gain peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored
How to Get Started
If you haven’t created an estate plan—or if it’s been a while since you reviewed it—now is the perfect time. Speak with a qualified attorney or financial advisor to explore your options. If you’re interested in learning how your legacy can support WCNY, we’re happy to talk with you in confidence and with no obligation.
To learn more about National Estate Planning Awareness Week or to notify WCNY of your intentions, contact Katherine Keeney at 315.551.6838, katherine.keeney@wcny.org, or visit wcny.org/other-ways-to-give.
The process is simple, but your support lives well into the future.
Katherine Keeney Manager, Membership Legacy & Giving
A Conversation with Jacques Pépin
Spend the Afternoon with Jacques Pepin on Friday, November 7 from 1:30-3 p.m. Join us for an exclusive 90-minute virtual conversation with the legendary chef Jacques Pépin, moderated by a special guest. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear stories, insights, and reflections from one of the most beloved figures in the culinary world.
Participants who donate $120 or more will receive:
• A 90-minute live Zoom event with Jacques Pépin and moderator on November 7, 2025
• One hardcover copy of Jacques’ brand-new book, “The Art of Jacques Pépin,” shipped to your door
• A Zoom link for live participation in the event
• A recording link to rewatch the event for 90 days following the live session
For information or to register, please contact Katherine Keeney katherine. keeney@wcny.org or call 315.551.6838.
Katerine Keeney Manager, Membership Legacy & Giving
Christmas Market River Cruise on the Danube with Lynn Elmhirst
Join Canadian travel journalist Lynn Elmhirst and the host of “World’s Greatest Cruises*” along with members of WCNY as we embark on an 11-day luxury, Danube River Christmas Markets Cruise embarking from Munich, Germany December 14-21, 2025. Once aboard the intimate 5-Star ship, sit back, relax, and soak up the festive atmosphere in Europe during visits to the Christmas Markets along the Danube River.
Get a one-of-a-kind chance to be part of the filming of Season 4 of this award-winning travel TV series that will air on WCNY next year, enjoy exclusive experiences just for members of WCNY, and support your PBS station!
For the full itinerary and information on how to book your cabin, contact Katherine Keeney at 315.551.6838 or katherine.keeney@wcny.org.
*”World’s Greatest Cruises,” the only cruise travel TV series on public television in the USA and Canada, winner of 2 Gold Telly Awards for Travel TV in 2025.
Katherine Keeney Manager, Membership Legacy & Giving
R AI S ED SUST AI N AB LY WI TH IN T EG RITY
Experience the rewarding journey of American lamb consumption, where each mouthful brings flavor and nourishment while contributing to sustainable agriculture and thriving farming communities nationwide. With its rich taste and nutritional benefits, lamb offers endless possibilities for culinary exploration. Savor the flavor of American Lamb, knowing your choice makes a difference.
Utica
Syracuse Seneca Falls Cortland Liverpool Cicero
As the leaves fall, settle in and stream your favorite PBS shows, or discover something new to cozy up with. Watch anytime, anywhere with PBS Passport.
NOVA: Revolutionary War Weapons
Available Thursday, July 3 on Passport
Work in progress
Archaeologists and historians uncover the true stories of innovation, skill, and strategy that shaped the outcomes of pivotal battles. Take a close-up look at the powerful—and sometimes ingenious—weapons that helped the colonies secure victory in the war.
Iconic America: Our Symbols and Stories with David Rubenstein—
The Statue of Liberty
Available Friday, July 11 on Passport
This episode explores the evolving meaning of the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of a “nation of immigrants,” and how it reflects both our values and our conflicts— from abolition and women’s suffrage to the treatment of refugees.
Concord’s Secret History
Available Friday, Aug. 1 on Passport
The documentary reveals a long-suppressed secret, set in Concord, Massachusetts—the birthplace of the American Revolution. While Concord is often celebrated for its role in the fight for freedom, few are aware of the untold stories that extend beyond its borders.
Great Performances: Kiss Me, Kate
Available Saturday, Aug. 9 on Passport
It’s a 2024 revival of “Kiss Me, Kate” at London’s Barbican Theatre. A love letter to the theater blending Shakespeare with backstage romance, the show was the crowning achievement of Porter’s celebrated career and featured a score brimming with enduring hits.
Watch PBS and WCNY shows, Anytime and Anywhere!
Support your local station and get extended access to your favorite PBS shows & films. Learn more at wcny.org/passport.
Watch WCNY Passport shows on PBS.org or using the PBS App, available on the following platforms:
