http://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/ – American molecular biologist James Watson is best known as one of the co-discoverers of the structure of DNA. In 1962, Watson shared the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine with Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins Wilkins, who, with Rosalind Franklin, provided the data on which the structure was based. This documentary examines the molecular biologist’s life and impact on science.
Airs 1/2 at 10 p.m.
This documentary film traces Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s continuing fight for equality and provides an intimate and rare look inside the life of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Airs 1/3 at 10 p.m. (repeats 1/6 at 7 p.m.) (repeats 1/12 at 5 p.m.)
Celebrate American craftsmanship and the unsung artisans – stone carvers, stained glass artisans, metalsmiths, plasterers, stone masons, decorative painters and adobe workers – who create and preserve iconic buildings.
Airs Jan 1 at 5 a.m., Jan 6 at 3 p.m.
Personal Statement follows three high school seniors from Brooklyn intent on defying the odds for themselves and their classmates by becoming the very resource they don’t have for themselves: peer college counselors. An observational film, Personal Statement weaves together their individual struggles, family life, and highs and lows of the of their respective college application processes.
Airs 1/8 at 8 p.m., 1/9 at 12 a.m., 1/9 at 8 a.m., 1/9 at 2 p.m., 1/12 at 10 p.m., 1/13 at 2 a.m., 1/13 at 9 a.m. 1/13 at 5 p.m.
http://www.wcny.org/connect-ny/ – The award-winning monthly Connect NY offers lively insightful discussion, information and analysis on timely topics that affect the residents across the Empire State. Tackling those public affairs topics significant in the lives of New Yorkers across the state, we will explore personal experiences, important conflicts and tough issues unfolding at the state level through the lens of the stakeholders involved. As we gain the perspective of those in government, labor and environmental organizations, community leadership, law and business, this program aims to shed light on potential solutions to the complex problems New Yorkers seek to solve. A panel of leaders and experts lend their perspective in a dynamic discussion moderated by Susan Arbetter, WCNY’s Director Public Affairs and host of WCNY’s state-wide daily broadcast radio show The Capitol Pressroom.
Airs 12/27 at 6 p.m.
(1/90 minute program and 8/60 minute programs) – https://www.pbs.org/the-great-american-read/home/ – Examine the power, passion and joy of reading through the lens of America’s 100 best-loved books chosen by the public. The series features reflections from notable and everyday citizens, culminating in a vote to choose “America’s Best-Loved Book.” Airs Thursdays at 1 a.m. beginning 12/27.
https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/ – PBS’ premier science series helps viewers of all ages explore the science behind the headlines. Along the way, NOVA programs demystify science and technology and highlight the people involved in scientific pursuits.
Airs 12/26 at 9 p.m.
http://www.onenightinmarch.com/ – tells the story of a historic college basketball game that captured the national imagination, influenced a state and helped redefine a sport. Interviews, rare footage and archival photos transport viewers back to a tumultuous time in United States history, just as the Civil Rights movement began gaining momentum throughout the South. In the late 1950s and early ’60s, Mississippi State University’s powerhouse basketball program earned several conference titles and national rankings. Despite their success, the Bulldogs could not play in the NCAA national championship due to an unwritten rule prohibiting all- white Mississippi collegiate athletic teams from competing against integrated teams. Mississippi State’s president, its head basketball coach and their players ultimately risked their safety and their futures by defying this rule not to mention the governor and state legislature in pursuit of a national championship. This award-winning documentary recounts the 1962-1963 season and the events leading up to the team eventually playing in the tournament against the integrated Loyola University (Chicago) club. ONE NIGHT IN MARCH concludes with a return trip to Loyola, where the former players from those teams reunite and celebrate the landmark game they participated in 50 years earlier.
Airs 12/26 at 3:30 – 4 a.m.
This is the story of Rich Jordan, one of Michigan’s top high school basketball players in the 1960’s. As one of the only Jewish students hailing from the tiny town of Fennville, and with his ability to dunk a basketball despite his 5’7″ stature, Rich touched the lives of everyone he met. Fifty years after his final high school game, and with the original super 8 films depicting the games, Rich and his teammates tell his inspiring story in JordanVille.
Airs 12/26 at 3-3:30 a.m.
https://www.pbs.org/show/iconic-vision-john-parkinson-architect-los-angeles/ – The little-known story of an immigrant whose building designs came to define Los Angeles, as well as other cities across the country.
Airs 12/26 at 2-3 a.m.