Magazine
July 2026
BETA:
WEB-BASED
PLANNER MAGAZINE
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This web-based magazine is optimized for multiple devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and phones. We cannot possibly test all our viewers’ technologies, so we have aimed for as broad a workable “sweet spot” as possible. If you have difficulty with this web-based Planner, it is most likely due to the fact this magazine project and your technology do not work together. Please do not contact the station for this issue. If you are having technical difficulties on this webpage, go to our classic PDF Planners as an alternative, which are found and stored HERE.
Our effort here is to fill in another gap after state and federal budget cuts caused us to eliminate our printed magazine.
Lastly, on a positive note: necessity became the mother of invention in this regard and this magazine is in many ways better than both the printed version and the limits imposed in an online PDF!
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
~ Your PBS Michiana Planner Team
Featured in this Issue
LEGENDS OF MICHIANA
KURT STIVER
PBS
AMERICA AT 250
Table of Contents
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PBS NATIONAL
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LOCAL WNIT
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CREATE TV
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MEMBERSHIP CORNER
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SCHEDULES & HIGHLIGHTS
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PBS KIDS
LEGENDS OF MICHIANA:
KURT STIVER
Amanda Miller Kelley
President and General Manager
PBS Michiana - WNIT
July 2026
Friends—
I was looking through a box of old photos recently. Most of them were just regular moments: birthday parties, trips, family pictures. None of them seemed particularly historic. But as I got deeper in the box, I was reminded how quickly “history” stops being something that happened to other people. Given enough time, every life becomes part of the history of a family, or a community, or a nation.
That’s one of the things public media does best. We tell stories that connect us to our past, to our neighbors, and to the places we call home.
You’ll see that in this month’s cover story, celebrating Kurt Stiver and his legacy built on trust, kindness, and connection. He’s a reminder that the people who shape a community aren’t always the ones whose names appear in history books. They’re the people who invest in others, build relationships, and leave the world better than they found it.
That same spirit runs through our July schedule as America approaches its 250th anniversary. Frontier to Freedom explores Michigan’s role in America’s story, while Project 1812: A Symphony of Love brings history to life through the talents of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra. National specials including America - Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together and the annual favorite A Capitol Fourth round out a month of patriotic programming that asks us to remember where we’ve been and what we’ve built together.
Of course, July isn’t only about looking back. I’m so proud that PBS Michiana – WNIT will bring you the 2026 Fischoff Gold Medal Concert, showcasing remarkable musicians performing right here in our backyard. And for those who prefer to keep their eyes on the horizon, our Summer of Space programming explores the discoveries and possibilities that continue to expand our understanding of the universe.
No matter the story we’re sharing, the goal is the same: to better understand our world and our place in it.
Thank you for making all of this possible.
Amanda Miller Kelley
President & General Manager
WNIT
NATIONAL PBS CONTENT
Join PBS in commemorating the country’s 250th Anniversary with content exploring how the United States came together, showcasing its rich history, treasured artifacts, and performances and art that define America.
A Capitol Fourth 2026, America's national Independence Day celebration, will kick off the U.S. 250th anniversary weekend on Friday, July 3, 2026. The historic concert, held on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, will feature musical performances, the National Symphony Orchestra, and a grand fireworks display finale broadcast live from George Washington’s Mount Vernon.
Airs LIVE on 34.1 on JULY 3 at 8pm
and repeats at 9:30pm.
This July 4th, AMERICA MADE IN VIRGINIA: 250 YEARS TOGETHER celebrates the nation’s Semiquincentennial with a star-filled tribute set in the revolutionary capital of Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area. Blending live performance, music, historic interpretation, and large-scale visual spectacle to create an inspiring national event that connects the nation’s founding to the present day, the special is designed as a celebration and a unifying national moment.
Airs LIVE on 34.1 on JULY 4 at 8pm
and repeats at 9:30pm.
The American Revolution
Thirteen American colonies unite in rebellion, win an eight-year war to secure their independence, and establish a new form of government that would inspire democratic movements at home and around the globe. What begins as a political clash between colonists and the British government grows into a bloody struggle that will engage more than two dozen nations and forever change the world.
Airs all day on July 4 on 34.1
beginning at 7:30am
This Independence Day, PBS Books is proud to present the America250 Reading List—a curated literary journey that celebrates the path to American freedom and commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
As our nation prepares to mark 250 years of independence, we invite readers of all ages to reflect on the people, events, and ideals that forged the United States. This special reading list brings together compelling titles across three distinct genres—nonfiction, historical fiction, and children’s literature—to illuminate the courage, complexity, and conviction behind America’s founding.
Whether you’re revisiting the founding ideals of our democracy or discovering them for the first time, the America250 Reading List offers something for every reader. We hope these books spark thoughtful conversation, deeper understanding, and a renewed appreciation for the values that continue to shape our great nation.
Explore the full list here and join us in celebrating 250 years of the American spirit—through the power of books.
PBS Books is a multi-platform initiative celebrating the love of reading. PBS Books is dedicated to connecting books with audiences by engaging them in unique experiences to spark their curiosity and encourage a life-long love of reading and learning. Through social and digital engagement and live coverage of important literary events across the country, PBS Books celebrates books and writers and works to foster a passion for reading among public media viewers and listeners.
WNIT
LOCAL CONTENT
LEGENDS OF MICHIANA
Kurt Stiver
A legacy rooted in trust, kindness,
and genuine human connection
Airs Tuesday, July 30 at 8pm
Dr. Kurt Stiver is widely respected as a compassionate physician and dedicated community leader whose work has left a lasting mark on the region. Known for his commitment to patient care and advocacy for public health, Dr. Stiver has spent decades serving individuals and families with a focus on both medical excellence and human connection. Beyond his clinical work, he has been an active voice in improving healthcare access and supporting local initiatives that strengthen the South Bend community. His legacy reflects a deep belief in service, integrity, and the power of medicine to uplift lives.
A PBS Michiana Original Documentary
On TV
Saturdays @ 10:30 am ET (34.1)
& Mondays @ 7:00 pm ET (34.1)
Livestream (on those days and times) Here
Watch anytime Here
Proteins play a vital role in every aspect of life, including the food we eat. Indiana University Biochemistry Professor Shahir Rizk, co-author of The Color of North: The Molecular Language of Proteins and the Future of Life, joins April Lidinsky to explore how stories, creativity and food can deepen our understanding of the world around us.
Airs July 25 at 10:30am
July Episodes
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7.25.26
The Color of North
by Shahir S. Rizk and
Maggie M. Fink
with Shahir Rizk -
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7.18.26
The Stardust Road
by Hoagy Carmichael
with Bill Firstenberger -
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7.11.26
Acts of Forgiveness
by Maura Cheeks
with Dalila Huerta -
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7.4.26
The Art Thief
by Michael Finkel
with Tuck Langland
On TV
Wednesdays @ 7:00pm (34.1)
Sundays @ 1:30pm (34.1)
Livestream (on those days and times) Here
Watch anytime Here
Celebrating Child Safety with a Carnival!
Pulaski County held a Child Safety Carnival in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. The event featured family activities and educational resources to help keep children safe and supported.
The EdCounts Podcast explores the wide world of education through conversations with experts! Science, school choice, language, mental health, you name it - our goal is to help you learn about topics and trends that matter to you.
On TV
Thursdays @ 7pm (34.1)
Saturdays @ 5:30pm (34.1)
Livestream (on those days and times) Here
Watch anytime Here
Looking for the perfect summer day trip in Michiana? This week, the entire Experience Michiana team takes you on an ultimate all-access tour of the massive new Indiana Dinosaur Museum complex in South Bend! From prehistoric bones and wild buffalo to historic chocolate tours and incredible local eats, we are exploring everything this massive destination has to offer.
On TV
Sundays @ 9:00 am (34.1)
Wednesdays @ 7:30 pm (34.1)
Livestream (on those days and times) Here
Watch anytime Here
Crossroads highlights inspiring stories from across the Michiana region. It showcases unique individuals, organizations, nonprofits, and businesses that are making a meaningful, positive impact in their communities. Through these stories, Crossroads aims to inform, empower, and celebrate the people who are working to make a difference.
Every Wednesday, a group of volunteers opens the South Bend Bike Garage to the public, free of charge. They fix bikes, restore donated ones, and resell them to riders of all experience levels.
Always On 34.2
WNIT
Membership Corner
We have always appreciated and enjoyed programs on public television,
now more than ever. Thank you!
Susan and Robert - Milford, Indiana
An Evening with
Celtic Thunder
Thursday, September 24 at 7:30pm
Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
Shipshewana, Indiana
Over the years, Celtic Thunder has been home to some of the finest vocalists in the world, and An Intimate Evening with Celtic Thunder will see Emmet, Damian, Neil and Ronan perform some of Celtic Thunder's greatest songs and welcome some old friends along the way. Longtime fans will be thrilled to see their favorite voices come together, blending their talents in an atmosphere of warmth and nostalgia.
Exciting news for supporters of PBS Michiana – WNIT! A new PBS Michiana Member Portal is on the way, designed to make managing your membership easier and more convenient than ever. This secure, user-friendly platform will allow you to update your personal information, adjust your giving, track your donations, and access member benefits, all in one place.
Whether you’re a long-time sustainer or a new supporter, the online portal puts you in control. No more phone calls or paperwork, just quick, seamless access at your fingertips.
Stay tuned for more details as we prepare to launch this new tool, built to enhance your connection with WNIT and the programs you love.
Did you know that many employers sponsor matching gift programs to match charitable contributions made by their employees? Gifts from employees’ spouses and retirees may also qualify for a match.
PBS Michiana - WNIT has made it easy to find out
if your employer has a matching gift program.
To check if your employer
will match your gift to WNIT:
Happy Anniversary, Nicholas!
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Nicholas Ramirez, Jr.
Production Coordinator
Keys to the PBS Michiana - WNIT Mission by Nicholas Ramirez, Jr. (on the occasion of his 10th Anniversary with WNIT).Whenever someone asks how long I’ve been with PBS Michiana, my first response is usually, "Do you want the short answer or the long answer?" The short answer is 16 years total. The long answer? I spent two years here as a student, followed by four years as a full-time freelancer, and now, I am celebrating my 10th anniversary as a full-time staff member. Over the last decade, my role has evolved, but my love for bringing local stories to life and my appreciation for PBS's impact on this community haven't changed. To celebrate this milestone, I wanted to give you a look at my day-to-day work.
Here are a few of the "keys" to my job, the literal buttons, boards, and tools I use most days to fulfill our mission.
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Key 1
The Studio Light Board -
Setting the StageBefore a single camera rolls, everything depends on lighting. Stepping up to the light board allows me to set the physical mood and stage for our regional storytelling, panels, and local productions. It’s where we ensure our guests and hosts are literally shown in their best light.
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Key 2
The Control Room Switcher - Directing the ActionThis is where the high-energy, fast-paced magic happens. Managing the video switcher in the control room is all about in-the-moment thinking: switching camera angles, timing graphics, and ensuring all the moving pieces of a studio production flow together seamlessly in real time.
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Key 3
The Audio Board -
Finding the VoiceThey say you only notice television audio when it’s bad, which means a quiet day at this board is a huge win. Sitting at the audio console is all about precision. Balancing the microphone faders, riding the levels, and checking the batteries. It’s our job to ensure that every local leader, musical guest, and storyteller sounds crisp, clear, and perfectly mixed for your living room.
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Key 4
The Edit Desk –
Crafting the Final StoryWhile the studio is loud and collaborative, my desk is where all the noise comes together and forms a “melody.” This keyboard is my ultimate storyteller's tool. It’s where raw footage gets polished, and where content is shaped and optimized to meet our audience right where they are, whether on broadcast or digital platforms.
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Thank You
After a decade of full-time service, pushing these buttons has become second nature. But the excitement of pushing them to champion our community and share your stories? That never gets old. Thank you for watching, supporting, and being part of the journey with me!
Below are some more
topical photos from the
PBS Michiana - WNIT
Original Documentary
Thank you to Nicholas for the tour and being part of our story!
This article was brought to you by WNIT Nerd. You don't have to be a nerd to love PBS Michiana - WNIT, but there are a lot of us out there. This page is the place to learn nerd, speak nerd, and nerd out on any given topic within the PBS Michiana - WNIT ecosphere.
If you have any interesting WNIT archive-worthy stories, facts or photos from our 50+ year history, contact us!
Worth Watching
July
Frontier to Freedom
Thursday, July 2 at 10pm
Frontier to Freedom is a documentary feature film that unearths the rich and often overlooked history of Michigan, tracing its evolution from a vast, untamed wilderness inhabited by Indigenous peoples in 1600 to its emergence as the 26th State in 1837. Through a blend of expert interviews, archival imagery, animated maps, and stunning visuals, the film explores the region’s formative years, its history of war and conflict on the American frontier, and the complex socio-political forces that shaped its path to statehood.
The Legacy of 4-H
Tuesday, July 7 at 10pm
The Legacy of 4-H explores the origins of the nation’s largest youth organization, tracing its roots to the early 1900s. The documentary celebrates Jessie Field Shambaugh, known as the “Mother of 4-H,” and her lasting influence on youth education. Through history and reflection, the film shows how 4-H has empowered generations with skills, leadership, and a commitment to community.
Independent Lens:
Flood
Monday, July 13 at 10pm
Returning home to California’s Inland Empire, filmmaker Katy Scoggin seeks to reconnect with her estranged father who works as an elementary science teacher. He is the only evangelical left in the family, and as they face their differences on faith, family, and belonging, their journey becomes a portrait of empathy and resilience. Together, they find new ways to listen and bridge divides.
POV:
The Dating Game
Monday, July 20 at 10pm
In a country where eligible men outnumber women by 30 million, three perpetual bachelors join an intensive seven-day dating camp led by one of China’s most sought-after dating coaches in a last-ditch effort to find a girl and love.
Project 1812:
A Symphony of Love
Thursday, July 2 at 8pm
Project 1812: A Symphony of Love brings history to life through the talents of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra.
Arts @ IUSB: Philharmonic
Thursday, July 9 at 8pm
To make Indiana University at South Bend live productions more accessible, the Ernestine M. Raclin School of the Arts partnered with PBS Michiana - WNIT to create Arts@IU South Bend. The programing highlights the wide range of talent in the Raclin School of Arts. Enjoy performances from faculty, students, alumni, and guest artists!
2026 Fischoff
Gold Medal Concert
Thursday, July 9 at 9pm
Founded in 1973 in South Bend, Indiana, USA, the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition has grown to become the largest chamber music competition in the world, and one of the most prestigious classical music prizes attainable today. Each spring, hundreds of musicians apply to compete in the live rounds on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. Recorded live by PBS Michiana - WNIT.
Once Upon a Time
in Space
Tuesdays, July 14 – August 4 at 9pm
& Fridays, July 17 – August 7 at 11pm
Once Upon a Time in Space is a 4-part documentary miniseries co-produced by the BBC and PBS that chronicles the deeply human stories behind the race for space. The series explores everything from the dawn of NASA's Space Shuttle to modern-day lunar ambitions through intimate archives and astronaut interviews.
JFK:
American Experience
Part 1 - Thursday, July 16 at 8pm
Part 2 - Friday, July 17 at 9pm
Forever enshrined in myth by an assassin's bullet, Kennedy's presidency long defied objective appraisal. Recent assessments have revealed an administration long on promise and vigor, and somewhat lacking in tangible accomplishment. His proposals for a tax cut and civil rights legislation, however, promised significant gains in the months before his assassination. While maturation, as evidenced in the handling of the Cuban missile crisis, was apparent, the potential legacy of the New Frontier will forever be left to speculation.
Legends of Michiana:
Kurt Stiver
Thursday, July 30 at 8pm
Dr. Kurt Stiver is widely respected as a compassionate physician and dedicated community leader whose work has left a lasting mark on the region. Known for his commitment to patient care and advocacy for public health, Dr. Stiver has spent decades serving individuals and families with a focus on both medical excellence and human connection. Beyond his clinical work, he has been an active voice in improving healthcare access and supporting local initiatives that strengthen the South Bend community. His legacy reflects a deep belief in service, integrity, and the power of medicine to uplift lives.
America the Bountiful
Thursday, July 30 at 11pm
America the Bountiful takes viewers on a weekly journey into America’s heartland to learn about culture and find inspiration in the personal, emotionally moving chronicles of farmers, artisans, restauranteurs, and home cooks through the fare that they grow, produce, and eat. Host Capri Cafaro meets guests who share culturally diverse and untold food stories and traditions.
You can now review our events calendar for details on these
and many more education events.
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Kids Club members
a PBS Michiana Kids Club backpack with PBS Kids swag
a special treat from Chick-fil-A
free or discounted ticket offers to area children’s performances
early registration for PBS Michiana Kids Club events
an on-air birthday greeting during their birthday month
a birthday listing in the Planner
a PBS Kids birthday card and special birthday gift
and more!
ANYONE who donates $60 annually
can enroll their kids or grandkids.
Joining is easy!
CALL 574-675-9648, EXT. 311
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Elaina Gamble, Age 8
Lucy Mannor, Age 12
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Freyja Vandersloot, Age 10
Coming in August!
Atomic Cartoons’ new original special The Day You Begin is based on the New York Times bestselling picture book of the same name by MacArthur Fellow, National Book Award and Newbery Honor-winning author Jacqueline Woodson. The special follows kindergartners Angelina, Rigoberto, Minjin and Andre on their first day of school, and is told from each of their points of view to create an interconnecting narrative.
They each have different experiences in the same classroom, and throughout the course of the day at school, the kids learn what makes them unique and what connects them to others. With comedy and heart, The Day You Begin demystifies this universal experience for children and strives to inspire its viewers to celebrate their differences.
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