Nov-Dec 2024 Connect Magazine

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2024

PBS News VOTE 2024: Election Coverage

Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 6 p.m.

Joy: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir

Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m.

Balancing Act with John Katko Watch Fridays at 8:30 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Learn More on Page 40

Single-Port Robotic Surgery: EXPERIENCE MATTERS

As the region’s leader in robotic-assisted surgery Crouse Health is the only area hospital to offer the latest, minimally invasive technique for prostate surgery using a single, small incision. The da Vinci SP system uses advanced technology designed for access to tissue in the body with greater precision and enhanced mobility.

A pioneer in robotic-assisted surgery, urologist Po Lam, MD, is the first and only surgeon in the region to utilize the da Vinci Single Port robotic system for prostate removal. His experience with the SP system places him in the top tier* of robotic surgeons in the U.S. using this innovative technology.

*Intuitive Surgical

See interview with Po Lam, MD, and SP patient Dan Cannucciari: crouse.org/ RoboticsSinglePort

Ask your physician if Single Port robotic surgery is appropriate for you.

CONNECT MAGAZINE

Publisher Mitch Gelman

Editor

Lauren Easton

Photographers

Eric Hayden

Francis Tavino

VP, Philanthropy

Shannon Hanrahan

Executive Editor Amanda Hayden

Graphic Designer Alexis Cleveland

Director, Media Sales, Underwriting and Corporate Sponsorship

Ed Molloy

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Chair Michael Humphrey

Vice-Chair

Francisco Suárez

Treasurer Greg Fedele

Secretary Hanka Grabovica

Members

Shanelle Benson-Dawson

Michael D'Eredita

Diane Gayeski

Thomas Griffith

Jon Jensen

Peter G. King

Don McPherson

Maria Murray

Tere Paniagua

Deryn Pomeroy

Vijay Srinivas

Colleen Viggiano

Directors

Ronald A. Teplitsky

Robert J. Daino

Broadcast and Education Center 415 W. Fayette St. Syracuse, NY 13204

Phone: (315) 453-2424

Fax: (315) 451-8824

Email: wcny.online@wcny.org Website: wcny.org

Postmaster: Send address changes to 415 W. Fayette St. Syracuse, NY 13204

WCNY

(ISSN 1541-261X) is

President's Letter

There’s a lot of talk on television these days, but the question I often hear is, who are they talking to?

In a media landscape polarized by extreme viewpoints on The Right and on The Left, is anyone speaking to The Center?

That is what led us to develop a new show that speaks, in a lighthearted and entertaining way, to the old Reagan-Clinton middle, which may still represent a majority across the country.

“Balancing Act with John Katko,” hosted by the former Congressman from Camillus who earned a reputation for working across the aisle, aims to bring balance to discussions on divisive political issues—while adding a touch of fun along the way.

Katko will serve as the ringmaster, guiding viewers through the circus of D.C. politics. “Balancing Act” will feature engaging, circus-themed segments:

• Tightrope: A focused portrayal of a hot-button issue of the day.

• Center Ring: An insightful interview with a key newsmaker.

• Did You Know? A fun exploration of political history.

• The Trapeze: An attempt to facilitate civility among two opposing guests.

• Next Week in Washington: A sneak peek at upcoming political land mines.

• Clowning Around: Comedian Moody McCarthy’s take on recent political news.

During his four terms in Congress, Katko was ranked among the most bipartisan representatives by The Lugar Center at Georgetown University. When reflecting on a time when politics worked in Washington, he recalls when House Speaker Tip O’Neill and Senate Majority Leader Howard Baker could share a laugh and strike a deal. With “Balancing Act,” Katko aims to explore whether any common ground remains in today’s political landscape.

At WCNY, we’ll be watching closely! We are eager to see if “Balancing Act” can play at least a small part in helping to make compromise cool, again. Thank you for staying tuned.

(USPS

CNY Holiday Entertaining Guide

This time of year brings people from all over to Central New York to spend time with family and friends. While hosting can be enjoyable, it can also be stressful to prepare everything and plan an itinerary. If visitors will be staying with you, check out this guide for entertaining during the holidays!

Around Central New York

There is so much to do in our region during the holidays. Don’t miss out on the exciting events happening!

Disney On Ice

Disney On Ice is bringing its hit show “Into the Magic” to Upstate Medical Arena at the Oncenter War Memorial. This marvelous ice skating show brings beloved characters to life right before your eyes. With classic songs and reimagined stories from numerous films, this show can be enjoyed by the whole family!

515 Montgomery St, Syracuse, NY 13202 Dec. 26-29; performance times vary by day

*Information is subject to change as events approach.

Did You Know?

“Jingle Bells” was originally written for Thanksgiving in 1857, but it has since become one of the most recognizable Christmas songs, played during the holiday season worldwide.

Holiday Shopping Spree

The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail’s Holiday Shopping Spree is back and better than ever! Now in its 30th year, the event invites you to indulge while shopping for others. Travel the trail at your own pace, collecting souvenirs along the way and enjoying wine tastings from a variety of participating wineries.

4565 NY-414, Romulus, NY 14541 Nov. 23 & 24 and Dec. 7 & 8 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Jungle Bells: Holiday Lights Display

Visit the Animal Adventure Park this year to experience the largest lights display in the area! With nearly 2 million lights, immersive exhibits, animal feeding areas, dozens of photo opportunities, concessions, and more, this local event attracts crowds of all ages eager to bask in the holiday cheer.

85 Martin Hill Rd, Harpursville, NY 13787 Nov. 8-Dec. 28, Thursdays–Sundays from 4-8 p.m.

Night Market at SKY Armory

Spend your evening eating, drinking, and shopping at this annual event hosted by SKY Armory! At Night Market, enjoy live music performed by local musicians, bistro-style food, cocktails, wine, and craft beer while browsing the booths at this eclectic pop-up market.

351 S Clinton St, Syracuse, NY 13202 Saturday, Nov. 30 from 3-9 p.m.

At Home

If you’re in the mood for a cozy day indoors, these activities are perfect for you!

Cranberry Tequila Cocktail

Combine cranberry juice, lime juice, tequila, simple syrup, and a splash of seltzer water for a deliciously festive drink! This recipe is perfect for sharing with your guests this holiday season.

Holiday Garland

Gingerbread House

Easy Gingerbread Cookies Makes 16-18 Cookies

These cookies, made with Jell-O butterscotch pudding mix, are easy to prepare and fun to decorate!

Ingredients

Create your own winter wonderland with this festive gingerbread house recipe! Design and construct your structures, then decorate them with icing to make stunning (and delicious!) centerpieces.

Looking for a lovely holiday craft to decorate your home? Create a fun and easy garland that brings out the holiday spirit! It’s perfect for hanging above a mantel or adorning your tree.

Leaf Napkin Rings

Get the kids involved in the Thanksgiving festivities with this Leaf Napkin Ring DIY. Your children will create masterpieces that are sure to tie your Thanksgiving feast together!

Get kids excited for Hanukkah by inviting them to create their very own menorah using pasta! This craft is appealing to children of all ages, is relatively easy to make, and allows for plenty of creativity.

• 1 package Jell-O butterscotch pudding mix (not instant)

• 3/4 cup margarine

• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 2-1/4 cups flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 3 teaspoons ground ginger

• 1-1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Cream pudding mix with margarine and brown sugar.

3. Add egg and blend well.

4. In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients and blend into pudding mixture.

5. Chill dough until firm for about 10 minutes.

6. Roll out on floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut with cookie cutters.

7. Place on greased cookie sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

8. Cool on a wire rack and decorate as desired.

WCNY's monthly Foodie-guide looks at the best of PBS food content, recipes, cooking videos, and more!

Sign up today at wcny.org.

Pasta Menorah

One Broadcaster, Four Channels

WCNY’s four digital channels can be viewed for free across Central New York.

Local WCNY Highlights

Balancing Act with John Katko Watch Fridays at 8:30 p.m. on WCNY-TV In the circus that is politics, this fastpaced and entertaining half-hour political talk show, hosted by former Congressman John Katko, features both Republican and Democrat perspectives—a rarity in today’s divided media landscape.

CONNECT NY: Domestic Violence

Premieres Monday, Nov. 25 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Host David Lombardo will lead a roundtable discussion on addressing domestic violence, exploring its forms, prevalence, efforts to promote positive masculinity, and available services for survivors.

Horns and Harmonies

Premieres Saturday, Dec. 21 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV

"Horns and Harmonies" features festive performances by Syracuse University's Brass Ensemble and the Spirit of Syracuse Chorus, with Bruce Paulsen, on-air host of WCNY Classic FM, serving as emcee, and pianist Jon Bergman.

November Highlights

Great Performances: Land of Gold

Watch Friday, Nov. 1 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Explore Peter Sellars' San Francisco Opera production of John Adams' "Girls of the Golden West" and go behind the scenes with cast members Julia Bullock, J'Nai Bridges, and others.

Featured Program

Joy: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir

Premieres Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square join Broadway's Michael Maliakel and "Downton Abbey's" Lesley Nicol for "Joy: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir," a spirited and heartwarming Christmas special. Filmed before a live audience at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, "Joy" will uplift your spirits with stirring renditions of classic and popular Christmas music, along with a true story about French novelist, poet, and dramatist Victor Hugo at Christmastime.

December Highlights

Lucy Worsley's Holmes vs. Doyle (Three-Part Series)

Watch Sunday, Dec. 8 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Lucy Worsley explores why author Arthur Conan Doyle came to despise the character that made him rich and famous—Sherlock Holmes.

PBS News VOTE 2024: Election Coverage

Watch Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Tune in for live coverage of the 2024 presidential and congressional elections, co-anchored by Amna Nawaz and Geoff Bennett, featuring analysis and results from the PBS News Hour team.

Nature: San Diego—America’s Wildest City

Watch Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Experience San Diego's vibrant biodiversity alongside its 3.3 million residents. From grebes' intricate rituals to orcas' thrilling hunts, witness nature's resilience and beauty amid urban sprawl.

American Experience: American Coup—

Wilmington 1898

Watch Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Discover the little-known story of a deadly race massacre and insurrection in North Carolina's largest city the only coup d'état in U.S. history.

Leonardo da Vinci (Two-Part Series)

Watch Monday, Nov. 18 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Explore the life and work of 15th-century polymath

Leonardo da Vinci in this two-part, four-hour documentary, directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon.

Lidia Celebrates America: Changemakers

Watch Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Follow Lidia Bastianich across America as she meets chefs, farmers, and entrepreneurs working to transform not only what is available but how Americans think about food for the future.

NOVA: Lost Tombs of Notre Dame

Watch Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV

After the devastating 2019 fire at Notre Dame, two mysterious sarcophagi were discovered under the cathedral’s stone floor. Who is buried in them, and what secrets might they hold?

Purdue 90 th Anniversary Christmas Show

Watch Saturday, Dec. 21 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Join the talented ensembles of Purdue Musical Organizations as they perform beloved holiday favorites in the stunning Elliott Hall of Music at Purdue University.

Mary Berry's Highland Christmas

Watch Monday, Dec. 23 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Join Mary Berry as she travels to her mother’s homeland, Scotland, where she is joined by friends to prepare indulgent Christmas dishes that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season.

Call the Midwife: Holiday Special

Watch Wednesday, Dec. 25 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Join the dedicated midwives of London's Nonnatus House as they welcome the festive season with heartwarming deliveries and captivating drama in this annual Christmas special.

Next at the Kennedy Center: Sara Bareilles— New Year's Eve with the National Symphony Orchestra & Friends

Watch Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Enjoy an enchanting evening of song and celebration in this year's New Year's Eve special.

Honoring Our Nation's Veterans

Sponsored by:

Salute to Service 2024: A Veterans Day Celebration

Watch Friday, Nov. 8 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV

This heartfelt special honors our nation's heroes, past and present, celebrating the enduring spirit and unity their service brings to America.

Honor Flight Syracuse: Mission 21

Watch Sunday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Join us in honoring our nation's veterans as we welcome home the men and women of Honor Flight: Mission 21. Learn more about the program and its recognition of their service.

Music & Might: An International Military Spectacular

Watch Monday, Nov. 11 at 9 p.m. on WCNY-TV

The film features groups from the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, along with 500 performers from five nations.

Independent Lens: Make Peace or Die—Honor the Fallen

Watch Monday, Nov. 11 at 10 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Discover how Marine veteran Anthony Marquez has made it his mission to reconnect with Gold Star families of the fallen.

Exploring the History of Transportation

Sponsored by:

Floating Ideas: How the Erie Canal Helped

Shape America

Watch Saturday, Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

This documentary examines the spread of ideas along the Erie Canal, with a focus on women's rights, suffrage, and the fight for social justice.

Moving San Francisco

Watch Saturday, Nov. 9 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

"Moving San Francisco" reveals eye-opening stories that link the city's transit history to the challenges faced by modern cities today, hosted by author and historian Gary Kamiya.

The Unforgettable Augustus Post

Watch Saturday, Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Experience the remarkable life of Augustus Post, a daring pioneer who helped steer America through a revolution in transportation in the early 20th century.

Real Rail Adventures: Switzerland

Watch Saturday, Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. on WCNY-TV

Join host Jeff Wilson as he explores the engineering marvels and scenic routes of the Swiss rail system, celebrating its iconic trains and breathtaking landscapes.

Showcase your community’s transportation history with a Pomeroy Foundation marker!

From bridges and railroads to aviation landmarks, communities are invited to spotlight their local transportation history with fullyfunded historical markers.

Get started today! Visit wgpfoundation.org to learn more about our Historic Transportation grant program.

November WCNY Daytime Schedule

December WCNY Daytime Schedule

November Create Weekly Schedule

Food, travel, home & garden, arts & crafts, fitness, and other lifestyle interests.

MON Legacy List with Matt Paxton

TUE GardenFit J Schwanke's Life in Bloom Quilting Arts

The Best of Sewing with Nancy Paint This with Jerry Yarnell This Old House Ask This Old House Dining with the Chef Fit to Eat Wild Travels Islands Without Cars Rick Steves' Europe The Best of the Joy of Painting

Painting and Travel with Roger & Sarah Bansemer Garage with Steve Butler J Schwanke's Life in Bloom

Steven Raichlen's Project Fire

Steven Raichlen's Project Smoke

Fly Brother with Ernest White II

Joseph Rosendo's Steppin' Out

WED Start Up Yndi Yoga Fit 2 Stitch The Joy of Painting with Nicholas Hankins Classic Woodworking Yndi Yoga Cook's Country America's Test Kitchen Weekends with Yankee Outside: Beyond the Lens

THU Conscious Living Yoga in Practice Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting

Sketching with Kath Macaulay

Woodshop

in Practice

for All with Buki Elegbede Christopher Kimball's Milk Street Television Bare Feet with Mickela Mallozzi Joseph Rosendo's Steppin' Out FRI Growing a Greener World Family Plot: Gardening in the Mid-South

Best of Sewing with Nancy Paint This with Jerry Yarnell This Old House

This Old House

Days, Drinks, Dishes & Destinations

Test Kitchen Cycle Around Japan Highlights Samantha Brown's Places to Love

November WORLD Weekly Schedule

November Programming Schedule

See pg. 12 for WCNY

and

KIDS programming. Visit wcny.org for up-to-date programming.

NOVA: Building Stuff— Reach It! Washington Week with The Atlantic

Next at the Kennedy Center: Embracing Duality—Modern Indigenous Culture

in Taos: The Mabel Dodge Luhan Story

Howards End on MASTERPIECE: Episode Three

Howards End on MASTERPIECE: Episode Four, Series Finale

Wolf Hall on MASTERPIECE: Episode Five ACL Presents: 23rd Annual Americana Honors

Howards End on MASTERPIECE: Episode Three

IN & AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK

Homer Men and Boys Store Homer, NY

Homer Men and Boys Store is a family-owned clothing and footwear store that has been providing quality name-brand merchandise at discounted prices since 1951. Located in Homer, NY, the store has a sister location, Roland’s Men and Boys, in Skaneateles, NY. Both stores are certified as WomanOwned Businesses by New York State, the City of Syracuse, and the City of New York.

Cazenovia Jewelry

Cazenovia, NY & Fayetteville, NY

Cazenovia Jewelry is a family-owned business offering a wide variety of exquisite pieces, ranging from classic to modern styles. With convenient online shopping options, you can browse and purchase jewelry from the comfort of your home. Our extensive collection includes designer pieces as well as one-of-a-kind items. Shop with us today and experience the difference!

CENTRAL NEW YORK

December Programming Schedule

See pg. 12 for

Lucy Worsley's Holmes vs. Doyle: Shadows and Sleuths
Berry's
Antiques Roadshow: Junk in the
Too Hot to Handel: The Gospel Messiah
Worsley's
Michael Lawrence, Enrolled Agent

Skaneateles, New York

A clear blue lake, alongside a vibrant downtown filled with unique shops and restaurants, combines for a one-of-a-kind, relaxing experience.

Skaneateles

A visitor’s paradise any time of year.

A lakeside village filled with shoppes, great restaurants, an award-winning spa, and year-round swimming.

For a FREE visitor’s guide, contact the Skaneateles Chamber! (315) 685-0552 • www.skaneateles.com

TOP 40

Rank

Composer Piece

1 Gershwin, George Rhapsody in Blue

2 Holst, Gustav The Planets

3 Dvorak, Antonin Symphony No. 9 "From the New World"

4 Beethoven, Ludwig van Symphony No. 9

5 Smetana, Bedrich Ma Vlast - Vltava (The Moldau)

6 Mussorgsky, Modest Pictures at an Exhibition (Ravel Orchestration)

7 Rachmaninoff, Sergei Concerto No. 2 for Piano and Orchestra

8 Barber, Samuel Adagio for Strings

9 Beethoven, Ludwig van Symphony No. 6, "Pastoral''

10 Sibelius, Jean Finlandia

11 Vivaldi, Antonio The Four Seasons

12 Copland, Aaron Fanfare for the Common Man

13 Orff, Carl Carmina Burana

14 Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus Eine Kleine Nachtmusik

15 Bach, Johann Sebastian Toccata and Fugue in D minor

16 Bernstein, Leonard Overture to "Candide"

17 Gershwin, George An American in Paris

18 Satie, Erik Trois Gymnopedies

19 Vaughan Williams, Ralph Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis

20 Saint-Saens, Camille Symphony No. 3, "Organ"

21 Handel, George Friederich Water Music

22 Shostakovich, Dmitri Symphony No. 5

23 Beethoven, Ludwig van Piano Sonata "Moonlight"

24 Price, Florence Dances in the Canebrakes

25 Debussy, Claude La Mer

26 Brahms, Johannes Symphony No. 1

27 Part, Arvo Spiegel im Spiegel

28 Wagner, Richard Ride of the Valkyries

29 Hummel, Johann Nepomuk Trumpet Concerto

30 Bruch, Max Violin Concerto

31 Berlioz, Hector Symphonie Fantastique

32 Brahms, Johannes Violin Concerto, Op. 77

33 Schubert, Franz Symphony No. 8 (Unfinished)

34 Glass, Philip Suite from The Hours

35 Adams, John Short Ride in a Fast Machine

36 Hovhaness, Alan Symphony No. 2 "Mysterious Mountain"

37 Greig, Edvard Piano Concerto in A minor

38 Strauss II, Johann The Blue Danube

39 Bizet, Georges Carmen Suites

40 Bach, Johann Sebastian Chaconne from Violin Partita No. 2, BWV 1004

41 Rossini, Gioachino The Barber of Seville (Overture)

42 Lauridsen, Morten O Magnum Mysterium

Liner Notes

There is a lot happening on WCNY Radio. In the last issue, we announced the launch of Pulso Central, the region’s first and only Spanish-language radio station. We are happy to share that Pulso Central is on the air and going strong, offering a mix of new local programming, music from local host DJ Lorenz, and content from national Spanish-language network Radio Bilingüe. Find out more and listen live at pulsocentral.com.

With Pulso Central now available over the air on WCNYHD2, many of you have called and written asking how you can listen to WCNY Oldies HD. Have no fear, Oldies remains available and can be streamed on the WCNY website. Simply visit wcny.org, click the old-fashioned microphone icon at the bottom of any page, and choose “Oldies” to listen 24 hours a day.

Did you catch the Classic FM Top 42 Listener Favorites during the countdown? Yes, the top 42—we had a threeway tie for No. 40! The complete listing is available on the left of this page. If you’re wondering why you might want to keep that list handy, it also doubles as a gift list. What better way to celebrate holidays and special occasions than with the gift of music for your friends and family?

Since we’re talking about gift lists, we have great music to share with you throughout the holidays. On Thanksgiving Day, enjoy Classic FM specials as you gather around the table with loved ones. On Saturday, Dec. 7 at 1 p.m., the live broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera return. We’ll continue the annual Christmas tradition of “Nine Lessons and Carols” from King’s College, Cambridge on Christmas Eve, followed by “Classic Choices Live” on Christmas morning. December wraps up with more specials for Hanukkah, and of course, we’ll kick off 2025 with the annual broadcast of the “New Year’s Concert” live from Vienna.

Last but not least, don’t miss “Bill Knowlton’s Annual Bluegrass Ramble Christmas Card,” airing on both Classic FM and WCNY Community FM. And speaking of Community FM, be sure to check out the high-quality, original local programming available on the station, with new shows added each month. Listen live, or visit wcny.org/communityfm to enjoy any of this great content on-demand.

The great programming on Classic FM, Community FM, Oldies, and Pulso Central is made possible by your generous ongoing support. Because of you, we can share great music and local content every day!

Classic FM Weekly Schedule

Adam Fine
Diane Jones Bruce Paulsen Marie Lamb Spencer Phillips Bill Knowlton
Battaglia Joey Nigro
Rayhill

Community FM Weekly Schedule

programming, produced for and by Central New Yorkers.

Meet the WCNY Community FM Hosts

Tom Walters & Maggie Foster

Tom Walters and Maggie Foster are the co-hosts of “Check It Out” on Community FM. In “real life,” both work for the Onondaga County Public Libraries: Tom as Director of Communications and Maggie as Programming and Outreach Coordinator.

On “Check It Out,” they form a dynamic duo of fun, as they entertain their way through describing the terrific programs, services, and activities available for children at our public libraries. The show anchors an hour of children’s programming every Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 11 a.m. on Community FM.

Listen to “Check It Out,” and any of our other original local radio programs live or on-demand at wcny.org/communityfm.

Ramble
with Leo Rayhill Jazz Network

Bousquet Holstein is Proud to Support WCNY & Community FM.

Listen to “Built to Serve” Live or On-Demand at wcny.org/communityfm.

We strive to understand your business and your individual objectives and offer the legal experience to help you achieve them.

THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH?

ell, we hope so! You know, they say politics resembles a three-ring circus, so a show that aims to bring you both sides of the issues may seem a little “freaky” these days—and that’s why it’s a perfect fit!

Do you find yourself tuning into the news and political debate shows while anxiously checking your blood pressure? Many media outlets have retreated to partisan corners, leaving viewers searching for something fresh and engaging.

Enter “Balancing Act with John Katko,” the show that aims to bring viewers back to the political conversation with real insights and meaningful discussions on the important political stories of the day—minus the bombast.

This half-hour spectacle kicks off with “The Tightrope,” where the former Congressman, ranked one of the most bipartisan, walks the fine line of an issue between Left and Right—without a safety net!

As he enters “The Center Ring,” he’ll chat with a newsmaker about the issue, ensuring that the discussion remains steady and that you get the unvarnished truth.

For history buffs, Katko presents “Did You Know?,” a fun and enlightening look at political history, packed with surprising facts you might not be aware of—yet!

Looking up high, or just at your TV, you won’t want to miss “The Trapeze,” where two guests from opposing sides of an issue will swing into a lively discussion and debate. They may even find some common ground along the way—ground, of course, something that actual trapeze artists aren’t too fond of finding!

We’ll also preview what’s happening “Next Week in Washington” from an insider’s perspective. And to round things out, comedian Moody McCarthy will send you off laughing with “Clowning Around,” where he offers his hilarious take on the lighter side of the week’s news.

So, put away that blood pressure monitor, grab some popcorn, and remember: in the circus that is politics, there’s always a “Balancing Act”—and this one’s on WCNY!

John Katko

WCNY's 10th Annual Taste of Fame Culinary Fundraising Experience

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS!

THANK YOU TO OUR SILENT AUCTION DONORS!

• Bonefish Grill

• California Closets - Syracuse

• DuFore's for Diamonds

• Drumlins Country Club

• Hearth & Home of Syracuse

• Ithaca Guitar Works Musical Instrument Store

• Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars

• MacKenzie-Childs

• Meyda Lighting

• Mike’s TV, Appliances and Power Equipment

• National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum

• National Carpet & Flooring

• R&G Furniture dba Ethan Allen

• Robert Trent Jones Golf Course at Cornell University

• Vince's Gourmet Imports

View and download photos from the evening at wcny.org/tasteoffame.

Meals | Catering | Cakes

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Established in 2000, Heart ‘n Hand Bakery is a family-run business founded by the Parrs, starting with homemade pies and handcrafted gifts. Over the years, it has grown into a full-scale bakery offering pies, cookies, an assortment of baked goods, jams, cheese, and dip mixes. The homemade pies are freshly baked and ready to enjoy, with seasonal favorites like Strawberry Rhubarb and Coconut Cream in the spring, Blueberry and Mixed Berry in the summer, and Apple, Pumpkin, and Concord Grape in the fall, alongside many other varieties.

Heart ‘n Hand Bakery also offers takeand-bake pot pies, including Chicken, Turkey, Beef, and specialty options. Located in Skaneateles, NY, the bakery is open Wednesday through Saturday, with hours that vary by season.

Provided by Heart 'n Hand Bakery Visit meals2GO.com or download our app and order today

Daniel O’Donnell Live in Syracuse

Don’t miss your chance to see Daniel O’Donnell live at the Oncenter on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. Daniel is one of the bestloved artists of our time and has had a remarkable career. He is the only artist in the world to score a hit on the UK album charts every year for the past 27 years, outshining icons like Michael Jackson, Madonna, U2, and the Rolling Stones.

Daniel burst into superstar-dom in the U.S. and Canada back in 2002 with his first-ever PBS special, “The Daniel O’Donnell Show.” This marked the beginning of a special relationship between Daniel and PBS that has lasted for over 20 years.

Since that first airing, Daniel has produced 15 more specials. It is Daniel’s belief that fans, throughout his time on PBS, have brought him to where he is today, standing beside him and making his career a success (as did fans in the UK and Ireland before that), and he will be forever grateful to each and every one of them.

Tickets, which include a meet and greet with Daniel prior to the show, are $150 per pair. Please call Katherine Keeney at 315.551.6838 or email katherine.keeney@wcny.org for tickets or more information.

By supporting WCNY, donors actively contribute to our ongoing efforts to inspire, educate, and entertain audiences of all ages.

Thank You for Joining Us for the 2024 Leadership Society Appreciation Event!

We extend our deepest thanks to our Leadership Society members who joined us for our annual Appreciation Event on September 26 at the WCNY-TV Studios.

The evening was a wonderful opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy delicious food, and gain insights from J. Daniel Pluff of WCNY’s “On the Money.” Most importantly, it allowed us to express our gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication of our Leadership Society members.

Interested in becoming a member of the WCNY Leadership Society?

Please contact Meghan Murphy directly at meghan.murphy@wcny. org or 315.385.7312, or visit wcny.org/leadershipsociety.

Leadership Giving Senior Director Meghan Murphy (left), Carole Valesky (middle), and Joseph Valesky (right).
William G. Pomeroy (left), Founder & Trustee of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, and Mitch Gelman (right), President & CEO of WCNY.

End-of-Year Giving

As the year draws to a close, WCNY invites you to consider the lasting impact of end-of-year giving, including gifts from an IRA or a QCD, and the importance of estate planning.

During this season of reflection and anticipation for a new year, individuals have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by including WCNY in their year-end gifts and estate plans. Such contributions are pivotal in sustaining our mission to engage, educate, and entertain a diverse audience through quality content. IRA and QCD gifts provide donors with the opportunity to support causes they are passionate about while also reducing their taxable income. With the deadline for year-end giving around the corner, WCNY is encouraging you to explore these giving options and make a lasting impact in our community.

While many of us are considering the gifts we give, it’s also a perfect time to think about the kind of legacy we want to leave. By including WCNY in your planning, you’re not just making a donation; you’re investing in a tradition of lifelong learning and ensuring that future generations have access to programming that enlightens and empowers.

WCNY appreciates gifts of all sizes, and each contribution is instrumental in shaping the future of our programming and outreach initiatives. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the generosity of our community to continue our work, which includes educational services, engaging cultural programming, and initiatives that make a difference in the lives of our viewers and listeners.

Those interested in making a year-end gift or including WCNY in their estate planning are encouraged to contact Katherine Keeney at katherine.keeney@wcny. org or 315.551.6838. We are happy to provide more information and assist with the process of creating a legacy that resonates with the values and vision of our donors.

As the year comes to an end, we thank our community for its unwavering support and look forward to another year of delivering programs that inspire and educate. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact in our community and beyond.

Find the perfect shows to enjoy while staying warm and avoiding the blustery weather outside!

The Caverns Sessions: Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Music Theory

Available Thursday, Nov. 7 on Passport

Hailed as a “musician’s musician,” Alvin Youngblood Hart has earned praise from legends like Bob Dylan and guitar virtuosos such as Gary Moore and Mick Taylor. Born in 1963, his nomadic upbringing influenced his eclectic musical journey.

Call the Midwife: Holiday Special, Seasons 10-13

Available Monday, Nov. 25 on Passport

Catch up on the last four “Call the Midwife” holiday specials before the Season 14 premiere! Relive the heartwarming stories, celebrate the festive spirit, and get reacquainted with your favorite characters ahead of the new episode!

The Sketch Artist, Season 3

Available Friday, Dec. 6 on Passport

Eve fights to rebuild her relationship with William as the unit investigates a string of disturbing crimes, including Bernard’s kidnapping and the return of a serial killer. From Walter Presents, in French with English subtitles.

Nature: Lions of the Skeleton Coast

Available Thursday, Dec. 12 on Passport

Lion researcher Dr. Philip Stander follows three orphaned desert lion cubs as they navigate the brutal Skeleton Coast of Namibia, Africa. Watch the lion cubs learn to adapt, hunt, and defy the odds of survival in this vast desert territory.

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:

As the only area hospital to be named a Best Regional Hospital 10 years in a row, we’re not just raising the bar, we’re setting it.

With the most High Performing designations, you’re getting first-class care from a team that always puts you first.* Because here, being #1 is more than a ranking — it’s the standard.

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