Perspectives Show

Also podcast weekly.

Archive of Previous Years

 

December 31, 2011

This week Perspectives presents its annual New Year's program. Two of America's finest journalists look back at 2011, and ahead to 2012. New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker explores the Empire State, including the first year of Andrew Cuomo as Governor. How has Cuomo changed Albany? What has he achieved? What still remains undone as a new year begins? New York Daily News Washington Bureau Chief Tom DeFrank then examines America in 2011-12. How healthy is President Obama politically? Is Mitt Romney the almost certain Republican nominee? To what extent will the economy decide the Presidential election? This week, Perspectives turns the page with the help of two esteemed guests in their field.

December 24, 2011

Every year Perspectives devotes an entire program to the state of the medium America knows and loves -- radio. This week's guest's name is synonymous with the electronic media -- Bruce DuMont, the nephew of Allen B. DuMont, inventor of the cathode ray tube and founder of the DuMont Television Network. Bruce DuMont is syndicated and XM Radio host of the series Beyond the Beltway and president and founder of the Museum of Broadcast Commmunications and the National Radio Hall of Fame. Recently, the Museum opened its 62,000-square foot building in downtown Chicago. DuMont discusses the new Museum; the current health of radio; which programming is in vogue; and the newest inductees into the National Radio Hall of Fame -- including broadcaster Graham McNamee, the shows Suspense, Gangbusters, and The Great Gildersleeve, and sports announcer-turned-U.S. President Ronald Reagan. Why does radio still thrive? Is it still a movable feast, and why? What will the medium be like a decade from now? This week, radio, with Bruce DuMont, on Perspectives.

December 17, 2011

This week Perspectives examines noise. One guest, Thomas Gibbons, President of the Rochester, New York, Hearing and Speech Center, discusses noise's volume -- its effect, ubiquity, and damage. He compares workplace and recreational noise, noting how each can lessen hearing, and details the Center's new initiative, "Too Loud?" The program's other guest details the noise of money talking. In a stunning decision, perhaps baseball's greatest slugger, Albert Pujols, recently left the world champion St. Louis Cardinals for another club because of -- money. Noted writer Rob Rains, author of the new book Wild Cards: The St. Louis Cardinals Stunning 2011 Championship Season, explores what Pujols' decision says about our culture. This week, noise, on Perspectives.

December 10, 2011

This week Perspectives explores local and New York State politics, as it last did early this fall. Bob McCarthy, Buffalo News political columnist and reporter, discusses what the recent election of a Democrat as Erie County Executive means. Is the Niagara Frontier returning to Democratic dominance? Then, Upstate New York radio host, activist, and former U.S. Congressional candidate Bill Nojay details the old adage that "money is the mother's milk of politics." Is that still true? If so, which 2012 Presidential candidates will benefit? This week, politics with two experts, on Perspectives.

December 3, 2011

This week Perspectives begins a recurring series, "I Didn't Know that!" American polling arose in the 1930s. According to a number of polling firms, including Gallup and Harris, the most effective U.S. major-party acceptance speech since then was Richard Nixon's at the 1968 Republican Convention in Miami. It converted millions of viewers, swelled his lead over Democratic candidate Hubert Humphrey, and was crucial to Nixon's narrow victory in November. William F. Gavin contributed vitally to Nixon's speech, especially the candidate's moving autobiographical passage. This week he explores the speech's impact, Nixon as a public figure, and why he thought that politics is "poetry, not prose." Gavin also wrote for Ronald Reagan, and recalls The Great Communicator's ability to do "needlework" on a speech, editing, then persuading. Gavin describes "mahogany Republican prose," why GOP national leaders tend to communicate less well than Democrats', and his new book, published by Michigan State University Press: Speechwright: An Insider's Take on Political Rhetoric. This week, the man who helped write what polling terms the most effective U.S. political acceptance speech of our time, as the series "I Didn't Know That!" debuts on Perspectives.

November 26, 2011

To many in the Northeast United States and beyond, major college athletics mean Penn State and Syracuse Universities. This week Perspectives examines the issue of sexual abuse that has cast a cloud over both. At Penn State, iconic football coach Joe Paterno was fired in the wake of a long-time assistant coach being charged with sexually abusing at least eight young boys from 1994 to 2009. At Syracuse, an assistant to legendary basketball coach Jim Boeheim has been placed on administrative leave after being accused by two S.U. ex-ball boys of molesting them. Scott Pitoniak is an award-winning columnist, magna cum laude Syracuse University graduate, and author of 14 books, including the new Color Him Orange: The Jim Boeheim Story. Pitoniak examines the two colleges, compares the scandals' differences and similarities, and explores Paterno and Boeheim. This week, Perspectives discusses two famed coaches, two investigations, and the issue of sexual abuse.

November 19, 2011

The great Jackie Gleason used to say, "A little traveling music." This week Perspectives emulates The Great One, exploring travel in and around Upstate New York. First, well-known broadcaster Mike O'Brian, the "Getaway Guy" on YNN TV Rochester, New York, discusses his book, The Getaway Guy: Road Trip Getaways With Mike O'Brian -- fifty one-day trips that listeners and their families can enjoy. Then, famed pollster John Zogby, founder of Zogby International Inc., located in his home town of Utica, New York, details Upstate New York's quality of life: why people live here, why they visit here, what the region has to offer. This week, travel in and around Upstate New York, on Perspectives.

November 12, 2011

Every year Perspectives devotes an entire program to the state of the medium America knows and loves -- radio. This week's guest's name is synonymous with the electronic media -- Bruce DuMont, the nephew of Allen B. DuMont, inventor of the cathode ray tube and founder of the DuMont Television Network. Bruce DuMont is syndicated and XM Radio host of the series Beyond the Beltway and president and founder of the Museum of Broadcast Commmunications and the National Radio Hall of Fame. This past week the Museum opened its 62,000-square foot building in downtown Chicago. DuMont discusses the new Museum; the health of radio today; which programming is in vogue; and who was recently inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame -- including broadcaster Graham McNamee, the shows Suspense, Gangbusters, and The Great Gildersleeve, and sports announcer-turned-U.S. President Ronald Reagan. Why does radio still thrive? Is it still a movable feast, and why? What will the medium be like a decade from now? This week, radio as it was, is, and perhaps may be: Bruce DuMont, on Perspectives."

November 5, 2011

This week Perspectives presents a preview of coming attractions. George Conboy is President of Brighton Securities in Brighton, New York, a suburb of Rochester. He examines the future of the economy nationally and in Upstate New York. Will unemployment rise, or fall? Why is business reluctant to hire and invest? Are policies in Washington, D.C., and Albany helping, or hurting, the economy? Jill Terreri is the political reporter for Gannett's Rochester Democrat & Chronicle newspaper. She previews the Nov. 8 election for Monroe County Executive between incumbent Republican Maggie Brooks and Brighton, New York, Supervisor Sandra Frankel. Who seems ahead? What are the key issues? What is each campaign's strategy? Are there larger political currents that may affect the result? This week, coming attractions, on Perspectives.

October 29, 2011

This week Perspectives details hopefully many happy returns.  Mark Peterson, President and CEO of Greater Rochester Enterprise, discusses recent New York State Department of Labor statistics showing the Rochester area to be Upstate's job engine. Dr. Noreen Boje, Doctor of Education, Speech-Language Pathologist, and Director of Speech Operations, Rochester Hearing and Speech Center, details the Center's new program "Talk, Read, Succeed" that encourages parents to read and talk to and with their children. Ed Healy heads marketing for the group Visit Buffalo Niagara. He recalls the enormous success of Buffalo's recent National Preservation Conference, sponsored by the Washington, D.C.-based National Trust for Historic Preservation, including a look at the number of visitors, dollars spent, and events open to the public -- and how Buffalo now intends to build on the Conference beginnings. This week, hopefully many happy returns, on Perspectives.

October 22, 2011

This week Perspectives celebrates an annual tradition: an entire hour discussing America with America's pre-eminent independent pollster, John Zogby. Founder of the Utica, New York, polling firm Zogby International, Mr. Zogby will detail in particular the 2012 Presidential election to occur a year from now. Is President Obama the underdog against a generic Republican? How closely is his fate tied to the faltering economy? What are Obama's strengths and weaknesses? What kind of a campaign will the President wage? Mr. Zogby will also look at the Republicans. Is former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney a done deal as the GOP nominee? To what extent have his debate performances this year helped? Will conservatives accept Romney's past liberal policies? Finally, what about alternatives? Is Texas Governor Rick Perry still a serious candidate? Does businessman Herman Cain have a political organization to compete? For the program's entire hour America's best-known pollster will discuss an already fascinating campaign. This week: John Zogby, on Perspectives."

October 15, 2011

This week Perspectives devotes its entire hour to an extraordinary conference coming to Western New York -- the October 19-22 National Preservation Conference, sponsored by the prestigious Washington, D.C.-based National Trust for Historic Preservation, to be held in Buffalo. Dr. Frank Kowsky, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of the State University of New York at Buffalo, discusses why this conference was awarded to the Queen City. In particular, he examines the city's nonpareil architectural heritage forged by such pioneers as Frederick Olmstead, Henry Hobson Richardson, Louis Sullivan, and Frank Lloyd Wright -- to The New York Times, "Buffalo's untold beauty." Then, Henry McCartney, Executive Director of Preservation Buffalo Niagara, details the conference itself -- the buildings and neighborhoods involved, regional events in Rochester, Chautauqua, and Niagara-on-the-Lake, the volunteerism of the Buffalo community, the role played by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, how people can still register, and what the conference will mean to Western New York. This week, the National Preservation Conference, on Perspectives.

October 8, 2011

This week Perspectives continues a series on professions begun last year. Bob Wolff, America's longest-running radio and television sportscaster, discusses broadcasting. The author of the new book, Bob Wolff's Complete Guide to Sportscasting: How to Make It With or Without Talent, Emmy Award recipient, and only man to air the title game in this Nation's four main professional sports describes how to start on radio/TV, market yourself, and avoid obstacles along the way. Author and critic Bill Kauffman, called "The Sage of Batavia," New York, by Gore Vidal, examines the field of writing: what makes a writer, and whether you have to dumb- and deviance-down to succeed. Kauffman details his nine books, most recently Bye Bye, Miss American Empire; explores the great literary tradition of Upstate New York; suggests how the computer has changed writing; and etches the craft's artistic and economic pros and cons. This week: the series on professions continues on Perspectives.

October 1, 2011

This week Perspectives explores the theme of decisions. Dr. Carol Long is the Provost of the State University of New York at Geneseo in Geneseo, New York. She examines the differences between a small and large liberal arts college, and which may best fit a particular student and family. The Rochester Democrat & Chronicle newspaper columnist and reporter Jim Mandelaro details the relationship between baseball's Minnesota Twins and Rochester Red Wings -- and if the Red Wings will continue as Minnesota's Triple-affiliate when their contract expires next year. Bob McCarthy is the political reporter and columnist of the Buffalo News. He looks at how and why voters are deciding, the impact of President Obama on Western New York politics, and how this fall's Erie County Executive race stands. This week, decisions, on Perspectives.

September 24, 2011

This week Perspectives explores a fascinating and crucial autumn for perhaps Western New York's most popular sports teams. Michael Harrington is an award-winning Buffalo News columnist. He details the great expectations for hockey's Buffalo Sabres as they begin their regular-season. What difference has new owner Terry Pegula made on and off the ice? Can the Sabres win their first Stanley Cup? How will the new relationship between them and their top affiliate, the Rochester Americans, affect each team? Scott Pitoniak is a best-selling author and columnist. He examines Syracuse University's shocking decision to leave the Big East athletic conference for the Atlantic Coast Conference. How will Syracuse rebuild its football program in a predominantly basketball conference? Why are the Orange leaving a conference they helped found in 1979? What does this say about the state of college athletics today? John Wawrow is a reporter and columnist for Associated Press. He discusses the surprising 2-0 start of football's Buffalo Bills. Are they for real, or a mirage after the Bills' 11-year desert of not making the playoffs? Should Bills fans rejoice, or beware? What are the team's pros, and cons? This week, a crucial fall for perhaps Western New York's most popular sports teams, on Perspectives.

September 17, 2011

This week Perspectives analyzes national, especially Presidential, politics. Jerry Zremski, the Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News, examines what President Obama has going for, and against, him in his bid for re-election. Will Congress pass the President's new $477 billion jobs program work. If it does, will the program work? Can Obama reverse the economic downturn -- and, thus, erosion in his polling support? Bill Nojay is an Upstate New York radio talk show host and Republican activist. He details the GOP field, asking who, if anyone, can unseat a sitting President. Is Mitt Romney still the Republican front-runner? Is Rick Perry for real, or a flash in the pan? If Romney and Perry each fail, which declared or undeclared candidate might fill the breach? This week, national politics on Perspectives.

September 10, 2011

This week, as school begins, Perspectives examines the written word of the printed page. Newspapers are often said to be in decline. Two journalists suggest how papers can survive an increasingly unfriendly world. Paul Mrozek is an award-winning staff writer of the Batavia Evening News, located in Batavia, New York, between Rochester and Buffalo. He discusses what newspapers must do to compete in an electronic world. Kevin Frisch is managing editor and columnist for Messenger-Post Media, including the Canandaigua, New York, Daily Messenger, and ten weekly newspapers in the Rochester area. He also writes a column for GateHouse Media's two hundred papers. Frisch details how if all politics is local, as Tip O'Neill said, much of today's news is interactive and local. This week, what newspapers must do to thrive -- indeed, survive -- on Perspectives.

September 3, 2011

This week Perspectives presents its annual Labor Day salute to work. The first guest, Karen Smith-Bogart, formerly among the Eastman Kodak Company's top women executives, is now a small businesswoman in Southern California. She discusses starting a company, the importance of education, business return on investment, and how government policy can spur initiative. The program's second guest, Kent Gardner, is President and Chief Economist for Upstate New York's Center for Governmental Research. He details current unemployment, the need to stabilize spending, what President Obama should propose in his upcoming nationally televised speech on the economy, and why if work is so crucial to the American Dream, it has become so hard to find. This week, a Labor Day salute to work, on Perspectives.

August 27, 2011

This week Perspectives continues its series on occupations -- professions -- careers. Molly Smith Metzler, 33, is among America's leading young playwrights, her works including Training Wisteria, Close Up Space, and current Elemano Pea. She discusses her trainng at the State University of New York at Geneseo, Boston University, and the Julliard School; how she structures plot, dialogue, and persona; and what theater-goers expect in a play. Ted O'Brien is among Western New York's leading lawyers: also, former Monroe County Democratic chairman and minority chairman, Monroe County Legislature. He explores what the law means to him; what it was like growing up in a family of nearly twenty lawyers; how the legal profession has changed; and why today lawyers are both admired and attacked. This week: playwrights and lawyers, on Perspectives.

August 20, 2011

This week Perspectives explores a timeless literary tradition: the art form of anthology. Les Pickel is the editor of numerous anthologies and Associate Publisher of Warner Books. He explains what anthology is, how fiction and nonfiction differ, and how the art form works. Andrew Blauner heads Blauner Books and edited the anthology Coach: 25 Writers Reflect on People Who Made a Difference. Its contributors included such writers as George Plimpton, Pat Conroy, and Frank Deford. Blauner discusses how to choose an anthology's contributors so that they complement one another. Otto Penzler founded the Mysterious Press, wrote The Encyclopedia of Detection, and has edited the annual Best American Mystery Series Stories of the Year. The listener will hear him define what comprises a best-of-fiction book. This week: the anthology, on Perspectives.

August 13, 2011

If Virginia is the Mother of Presidents, New York State is the Mother of First Ladies. Recently, Perspectives examined three New Yorkers who became First Ladies. This week it explores the other three. Vanity Fair Magazine's Sally Bedell Smith recalls Jacqueline Kennedy. Pamela Reeves of Scripps Howard details Barbara Bush, the wife of one U.S. President and mother of another. Finally, in one of the last interviews he gave before his death, a long-time aide to President Reagan, Michael Deaver, discusses his good friend Nancy Reagan. This week: New Yorkers who became American First Ladies, on Perspectives.

July 30, 2011

This week Perspectives examines the professional well-balanced life, using two authors as example. Paul Dickson is the author of 57 nonfiction books, most on American English language and popular culture, including Sputnik, Dwight Eisenhower, and Cold War history. His newest book is the third edition of the Dickson Baseball Dictionary: The Definitive Work on the Language of Baseball, termed by the Wall Street Journal "a staggering piece of scholarship." Dickson examines how language links America. Michael Bohn is the author of numerous books on subjects from golf to terrorism, a career Naval intelligence officer, aide to Presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan, and former director of the White House Situation Room. Bohn will discuss his book, "Nerve Center: Inside the Situation Room," and to what extent TV, film, and print have accurately portrayed one of the White House's most famous locales. This week: the professional well-balanced life, on Perspectives.

July 23, 2011

This week Perspectives devotes an entire hour to the economy, its guest perhaps Upstate New York's finest business reporter and columnist, the Buffalo News' David Robinson. He discusses, among other things, the Federal debate over raising the debt ceiling, America's and New York State's unemployment rate, the alarming lack of teenage jobs, regional and national economic development, tax hikes v. spending cuts, the Empire State's new property tax cap, and differences and similarities in President Obama's and Governor Andrew Cuomo's governing philosophy. This week: the issue about which most Americans care most -- the economy, on Perspectives.

July 16, 2011

If Virginia is the mother of Presidents, New York is the mother of American First Ladies. This week's Perspectives looks at three. Dan Preston, editor of James Monroe's papers, recalls Elizabeth Monroe, more popular in France than in the United States. Vassar College educator Rebecca Edwards examines Francis Cleveland, becoming First Lady at age 22. Finally, David Roosevelt, author of the book Grandmere, about his grandmother, Eleanor Roosevelt, remembers the woman who held her position longer than any First Lady and revolutionized the job. This week, the first in a series on U.S. First Ladies from the Empire State, on Perspectives.

July 9, 2011

This week Perspectives explores recommended reading for the summer and beyond. Award-winning columnist and author Scott Pitoniak will soon release two biographies of Upstate New York household names: Syracuse University basketball coach Jim Boeheim and long-time Rochester resident and former major-league baseball pitcher Johnny Antonelli. Pitoniak discusses what he's learned about each. Then Bob Rich, Chairman of Rich Products Corporation, headquartered in Buffalo, details the new book, The Right Angle: Tales From a Sporting Life, which recounts his fascinating career in Western New York sports. Among other things, Rich recounts fishing and friendship with former President George H.W. Bush, buying and selling the hockey Sabres, pioneering naming rights to the football Bills' then-80,000-seat stadium, the filmed-in-Buffalo movie The Natural, creating the baseball Bisons' park Pilot Field, and Rich's crusade to bring major league baseball to the Queen City. This week, recommended reading, on Perspectives.

July 2, 2011

This week Perspectives explores the end of New York State's 2010-11 Legislative session, which ended with a property tax cap, legalized gay marriage, and controversy. Political activist and radio talk host Bill Nojay explores what allowing gays and lesbians to wed -- same-sex marriage -- means to the Empire State. Then, New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker, named the State's leading political reporter, examines Albany's session overall. Did Governor Andrew Cuomo achieve what he asked the Legislature to do? If so, what does that mean to Cuomo politically and New York economically? This week, a look at a crucial Legislative session, on Perspectives.

June 25, 2011

This week Perspectives explores movers and shakers, dreamers and thinkers: people who helped change Upstate New York -- and helped Upstate change the world. Nora Bredes heads the Susan B. Anthony Center of Women's Leadership at the University of Rochester. She discusses Anthony's role in enhancing women's dignity and opportunity. Longtime curator Kathy Connor of the George Eastman House in Rochester discusses the father of photography's pioneering zeal. Catherine Clinton, the author of the acclaimed book Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom, details Tubman's life, courage, and effect on America's commitment to equality. This week: Upstate New Yorkers who made a difference, on Perspectives.

June 18, 2011

This week Perspectives explores celebrities from Upstate New York. As a child, Irving Crain, growing up in Livingston County, south of Rochester, got a toy billiards table. Scholar Mike Shamos explains how Crain's love of pool made him a memorable adult. Sober or playing drunk, actor Foster Brooks was unforgettable. Former The Buffalo News media critic Tony Violanti details a Buffalo Original. Finally, music author and historian Charles Mancuso recalls a wondrous cab: Rochester's grand artist, Cab Calloway. This week, Upstate New York celebrities, on Perspectives.

June 11, 2011

The great Jackie Gleason used to say, "A little traveling music." This week Perspectives emulates The Great One, exploring travel in and around Upstate New York. First, well-known broadcaster Mike O'Brian, the "Getaway Guy" on YNN TV Rochester, New York, discusses his book: "The Getaway Guy: Road Trip Getaways with Mike O'Brian" -- fifty one-day trips that listeners and their families can enjoy. Then, famed pollster John Zogby, President and CEO of Zogby International, located in his home town of Utica, New York, details Upstate New York's quality of life: why people live here, why they visit here, what the region has to offer. This week, travel in and around Upstate New York, on Perspectives.

June 4, 2011

This week Perspectives details several things common to Western New York. Hank Greenwald grew up in the Rochester suburb of Brighton, graduated from Syracuse University, and became a famed sportscaster for, among other teams, baseball's Yankees, A's, and Giants. Returning to the region to be inducted into the Brighton Alumni Hall of Fame, Greenwald discusses which sports Western New York follows, and why. Kevin Oklobzija is reporter and columnist for the Rochester, New York Democrat & Chronicle newspaper. He details the possible purchase and takeover of the American Hockey League Rochester Americans by the National Hockey League Buffalo Sabres. How likely is this event, and by when? This week, Western New York, on Perspectives.

May 28, 2011

This week Perspectives explores quality. First, Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy etches the recent New York State 26th Congressional District special election to replace Republican Chris Lee, who resigned earlier this year. What does Democrat Kathy Hochul's stunning election mean? Did Republicans snatch defeat from the jaws of victory? Will the issue of Medicare reform, crucial to Hochul's victory, now be debated across the land? Then New York Times columnist and best-selling author George Vecsey details his new book on an American icon: Stan Musial: An American Life. Musial was born in western Pennsylvania, was especially beloved in cities with a large Polish populace like Buffalo, and brilliantly played with the Rochester Red Wings before joining the major league St. Louis Cardinals in 1941. He also came to love Upstate New York's Cooperstown, where The Man entered the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1969. Recently, President Obama gave Musial the Medal of Freedom -- America's highest civilian award. Vecsey looks at Musial's professional and personal quality -- and why he is underappreciated by the celebrity-crazed culture of today. This week, quality, on Perspectives.

May 21, 2011

This week Perspectives examines the 2011 anniversaries of two major American Presidents. Marc Schulman is the primary editor of the world's largest history web site and author of a new book, JFK History Maker -- a 50th Year Retrospective. He recalls the impact of President Kennedy's January 20, 1961 inaugural address -- and why JFK's life and legacy fascinate us still. Jeffrey Koch, Professor of Political Science at the State University of New York at Geneseo, is an expert on the Presidency. He looks at the aftermath of the February 6 100th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's birth, examining why one critic calls Reagan a "folklore President." In particular, Dr. Koch explores why Reagan affects both major political parties seven years after his death. This week: anniversaries of two major U.S. Presidents, on Perspectives.

May 14, 2011

This week Perspectives looks at Western New York and national politics. On May 24, a special election will be held to choose Chris Lee's successor in New York State's 26th Congressional District. Buffalo News political writer and columnist Bob McCarthy discusses a fascinating three-person race in the usually Republican district among the GOP's Jane Corwin, Democrat Kathy Hochul, and Ted Party candidate Jack Davis. Then, Tom DeFrank, New York Daily News Washington Bureau chief, explores national events of the past few weeks: Osama bin Laden's death; President Obama's role; its effect on the 2012 Presidential race; and which Republicans are preparing to challenge him, including Mitt Romney, who recently gave a major speech on health care. This week, politics, on Perspectives.

May 7, 2011

This week Perspectives continues its series on occupations -- careers. First, the show explores medicine with John Buckley, M. D. of the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. Dr. Buckley is a well-respected primary care physician -- once called a general practitioner. He asks whether doctors know best; what questions patients should ask them; and what medical conditions most threaten life's longevity and quality. The show then discusses politicians; whether they do the people's business, or give them the business. Guest Tom Brede is the former Press Secretary to United States Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada. Recently he returned from Washington to his native Western New York to work in public affairs for the public relations firm Eric Mower and Associates. Mr. Brede examines what kind of person should enter politics; how the profession has changed in the last several decades; and whether most politicians are worthy of the middle class. This week: doctors and lawyers, on Perspectives.

April 30, 2011

This week Perspectives continues its series on occupations -- professions -- careers. Molly Smith Metzler, 33, is among America's leading young playwrights, her works including Training Wisteria, Close Up Space, and current Elemano Pea. She discusses her training at the State of University of New York at Geneseo, Boston University, and the Julliard School; how she structures plot, dialogue, and persona; and what theater-goers expect in a play. Ted O'Brien is among Western New York's leading lawyers: also, former Monroe County Democratic chairman and minority chairman, Monroe County legislature. He explores what the law means to him; what it was like growing up in a family of nearly twenty lawyers; how the legal profession has changed; and why today lawyers are both admired and attacked. This week: playwrights and lawyers, on Perspectives.

April 23, 2011

This week Perspectives begins a series on professions -- occupations -- careers. Bob Wolff, America's longest-running radio and television sportscaster, discusses broadcasting. The author of the new book, Bob Wolff's Complete Guide to Sportscasting: How to Make It With or Without Talent, Emmy Award recipient, and only man to air the title game in this Nation's four main professional sports describes how to start on radio/TV, market yourself, and avoid obstacles along the way. Author and critic Bill Kauffman, called "The Sage of Batavia," New York, by Gore Vidal, examines the field of writing: what makes a writer, and whether you have to dumb- and deviance-down to succeed. Kauffman details his nine books, most recently Bye Bye, Miss American Empire; explores the great literary tradition of Upstate New York; suggests how the computer has changed writing; and etches the craft's artistic and economic pros and cons. This week: a new series on professions, on Perspectives.

April 16, 2011

This week Perspectives presents its annual opening month salute to baseball. Leonard Cassuto, Professor of English at Fordham University, is the co-editor of a new book, The Cambridge Companion to Baseball, which author and former pitcher Jim Bouton says "packs the [sport's] entire history into one book." Then, Rochester Democrat & Chronicle reporter and columnist Jim Mandelaro examines the history and future of Western New York's Triple-A flagship teams: the Rochester Red Wings and Buffalo Bisons. At a time when baseball seems in trouble nationally, why is New York an exception to the rule? This week: baseball returns, on Perspectives.

April 9, 2011

This week Perspectives explores what's happening to the economy. Fred Dicker is the state editor and award-winning columnist of the New York Post. He examines New York Governor Andrew Cuomo's first three months in office. Having enacted a budget to close New York's $10 billion deficit without new fees or taxes. will Cuomo now campaign for a 2 percent property tax cap to ease the tax crippling Upstate's economy? David Robinson is the business writer and columnist for the Buffalo News. He explores the pros and cons of Western New York low-paying jobs. How does the region raise wages, while at the same time convincing business to stay and other businesses to relocate in the Empire State? This week, what's happening to the economy, on Perspectives.

April 2, 2011

This week Perspectives explores the state of Upstate New York. Benjamin Wachs is a columnist for GateHouse Media, including Rochester, New York's Messenger-Post Newspapers. He examines this week's surprisingly close election for Mayor of Rochester between Democratic Party candidate Tom Richards and Working Families and Independent parties nominee Bill Johnson. Robert Scardamalia is former chief demographer for New York State's Department of Economic Development. He details the 2010 findings recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau, looking at, among other things, Upstate's loss of population, with special emphasis on Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. This week: the state of Upstate New York, on Perspectives.

March 26, 2011

This week Perspectives explores teaching, speaking, and politics. Caroline Tucker is the political reporter for Rochester, New York's CBS Television affiliate WROC. She details the March 29 special election for Mayor of Rochester, including the two leading candidates: Democratic Party nominee Tom Richards and the Working Families and Independent parties' nominee William Johnson. The next guest is William Cook, Distinguished Teaching Professor of History at the State University of New York at Geneseo. He will detail how the classroom and speech affect politics, which political orators he especially admires, the state of today's political culture, and the lessons he learned from once running for U.S. Congress. This week: teaching, speaking, and politics on Perspectives.

March 19, 2011

This week Perspectives takes its annual look at sports. T.S. Eliot called April "the cruelest month." For a sports fan, March may be the busiest month. To discuss it, the series spends the hour with award-winning columnist and best-selling author Scott Pitoniak, who has written books on many of March's leading sports events. Pitoniak explores college basketball's March Madness, including Syracuse University; baseball's spring training; the Buffalo Sabres pursuit of a National Hockey League playoff berth; why Western New York shows little interest in pro basketball; and the Buffalo Bills, the upcoming National Football League player draft, and the possibility of losing the 2011-2012 season to a lockout. This week: no matter what your sport, Perspectives has a show for you.

 

March 12, 2011

This week Perspectives examines a single subject through the prism of a single authority, as it has previously with John Zogby on polling; Joseph Crangle, the Democratic Party; and Bill Johnson, urban policy, among others. This week's subject: politics. Guest: Bob McCarthy, longtime Buffalo News political reporter and columnist, named among New York State's ten most influential journalists. McCarthy has covered six New York Governors, attended ten national conventions, and been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. He critiques each of these Governors, discusses races like Hillary Clinton's 2000 U.S. Senate campaign, explores why a new statewide poll says New Yorkers expect the quality of life to get worse, and details Governor Andrew Cuomo's pledge to erase a $10 billion budget deficit without raising fees or taxes. This week: politics, with Bob McCarthy, on Perspectives.

 

March 5, 2011

This week Perspectives looks ahead. First, Dr. James Pierson, President of the William E. Simon Foundation and a Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, discusses his opinion column in The Wall Street Journal on the difference in college curricula between Harvard and Columbia: literally, two schools of thought adopted by virtually every college and university in the country. Then, Dr. W. Bradford Wilcox, Director of the National Marriage Project and Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Virginia, details how America's working class is drifting from a middle class with which it was once synonymous: less stable, more dysfunctional, less affluent, and less religious. This week: two vital issues for ourselves and our children, on Perspectives.

 

February 26, 2011

This week Perspectives devotes the entire hour to a friend listeners know and love: radio. Bruce DuMont's last name is synonymous with electronic media, his uncle having developed the cathode ray tube and founded the DuMont Television Network, a post-World War II industry pioneer. In the last thirty years Bruce DuMont has begun the weekly syndicated radio series Beyond the Beltway, opened the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago, and founded its National Radio Hall of Fame -- the world's only such shrine. Within the next year the Museum will open its new headquarters. DuMont discusses radio's future, a present dominated by political talk and niche programming, and a past from Graham McNamee to Jack Benny and Bob Hope that one writer called "the kingdom of art." This week, radio, on Perspectives.

 

February 19, 2011

This week Perspectives examines things going badly. Kevin Oklobzija is the hockey writer and columnist of the Rochester, New York, Democrat & Chronicle newspaper. He suggests why the American Hockey League Rochester Americans' health is as bad as the once-parent National Hockey League Buffalo Sabres' is fine. Bob McCarthy is the political reporter and columnist of the Buffalo News newspaper. He examines the stunning fall of New York's 26th District now-former Congressman Chris Lee. What does Lee's scandal say about Western New York, 24/7 public scrutiny, the role of the Internet, and the state of politics today? This week: Things going badly, on Perspectives.

 

February 12, 2011

This week Perspectives addresses two challenges: one abroad, the other in Upstate New York. First, University of Rochester Professor of Religion Emil Homerin addresses the crisis in Egypt: what the protest means to the Middle East, the American economy, and U.S. foreign policy. Dr. Homerin is an expert on Islam and Arabic Literature and has lived and worked in Egypt for a large part of the last thirty years. Then, Buffalo News reporter and columnist Mike Harrington discusses a more local challenge: Buffalo Sabres owner Tom Golisano's recent sale of the hockey franchise to businessman Terry Pegula for $189 million. Mr. Harrington explores the ownership change's likely impact on and off the ice as the Sabres try to further regionalize their appeal and win their first Stanley Cup. This week, challenges, on Perspectives.

February 5, 2011

This week Perspectives devotes its entire hour to a conversation with William Johnson, the former three-term 1994-2005 Mayor of Rochester, New York, who hopes to become its future Mayor. Johnson will tell why he is running for his old job; what he thinks of the upcoming March 29 Special Election in Rochester; how Western New York compares to the region he first came to in 1972; and whether politicians anywhere are worthy of the electorate. Johnson is currently the Distinguished Professor of Public Policy and Coordinator, Urban and Community Studies, at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Hear him this week on Perspectives.

 

January 29, 2011

This week Perspectives examines the contemporary anniversaries of two major American Presidents. Marc Schulman is the primary editor of the world's largest history web site and author of a new work, JFK History Maker -- a 50th Year Retrospective. He recalls the impact of President Kennedy's January 20, 1961 Inaugural address -- and why JFK's life and legacy fascinate us still. Jeffrey Koch, Professor of Political Science at the State University of New York at Geneseo, is an expert on the Presidency. He looks at the February 6 100th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's birth, examining why one critic calls Reagan a "folklore President." In particular, Dr. Koch explores why Reagan affects both major political parties seven years after his death. This week: anniversaries of two major U.S. Presidents, on Perspectives.

January 22, 2011 This week we are airing different shows in Rochester and Buffalo.

Rochester:

This week Perspectives examines a new and disturbing study of America's most literate cities, ranking the culture and resources for reading in the Nation's largest 75 metropolitan areas with population over 225,000, including Buffalo, New York. The report asks not whether people can read, but if they do. The answer: less and less. Ernest Balajthy, Professor of Education and Program Director, Reading and Literacy, at the State University of New York at Geneseo, details the extent and causes of our decline in reading.  Then Randi Minetor, among Upstate New York's most prolific authors with 26 books, including soon-to-be-released works on bird watching and hiking in the Hudson River Valley, suggests what being reading-challenged costs individually and as a culture. This week on WXXI, why we're reading less, on Perspectives.

Buffalo:

This week Perspectives examines the 465,000-student and nearly three-million alumni State University of New York educational system, with particular emphasis on its specialized nature, financial status, and rising pressure on the middle class. Our guest for the entire hour is SUNY at Geneseo's President since 1995, Christopher Dahl, also a Professor of English and one of the Nation's leading Victorian scholars. Dahl heads what the New York Times calls "the most selective of all of SUNY's comprehensive colleges" and what is often termed "New York's public Ivy." He examines the SUNY system's goals of equality, quality, affordability, and autonomy -- and the Public Higher Educational Empowerment and Innovation Act before the New York State Legislature, which Dahl seems crucial to the future of the entire system. This week on WNED, the State University of New York, on Perspectives.

January 15, 2011

This week Perspectives examines a new and disturbing study of America's most literate cities, ranking the culture and resources for reading in the Nation's largest 75 metropolitan areas with population over 225,000, including Buffalo, New York. The report asks not whether people can read, but if they do. The answer: less and less. Ernest Balajthy, Professor of Education and Program Director, Reading and Literacy, at the State University of New York at Geneseo, details the extent and causes of our decline in reading.  Then Randi Minetor, among Upstate New York's most prolific writers, the author of 26 books, including soon-to-be-released works on bird watching and hiking in the Hudson River Valley, suggests what being reading-challenged costs individually and as a culture. This week, why we're reading less, on Perspectives.

January 8, 2011

This week Perspectives examines New York State's 56th and newest Governor, Andrew Cuomo. This past week Cuomo gave his Inaugural speech and his State of the State address. First, John Zogby, President and CEO of Zogby International and often termed America's leading pollster, examines the attitudes of the Empire State electorate as Cuomo takes office. Then, David Robinson, business writer and columnist of the Buffalo News, explores how Cuomo intends to cut a $10 billion deficit, revive New York's ailing economy, and change the State's business-unfriendly reputation. This week: The State of New York State, on Perspectives.

 

January 1, 2011

This week Perspectives celebrates Happy New Year by looking ahead to 2011. First, the show examines Western New York, with Ted O'Brien, former Monroe County Democratic Party chairman, now minority leader, the Monroe County Legislature. Topics include Rochester, N.Y.'s upcoming Special Election for Mayor, Buffalo's attempt to transform downtown, Upstate New York's economy, and Andrew Cuomo's January 1 inaugural as New York Governor. Then, Jerry Zremski, Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News, examines the Nation, including its unemployment rate, Congress' recent lame-duck session, President Obama's political status, the state of the Democratic Party, and Republican Party policies and leadership. This week: a look ahead to 2011 on Perspectives.

December 25, 2010

This week Perspectives examines democracy: how we elect public officials, and why. First, Buffalo News political reporter and columnist Bob McCarthy recalls some of Buffalo's 62 Mayors, including Grover Cleveland, Jimmy Griffin, and today's Byron Brown. How have they differed, and been alike? Then, Western New York political activist and radio talk host Bill Nojay examines the controversy over how Rochester's new Mayor should be elected: a special spring 2011 election, or fall 2011 primary and general election. In particular, he discusses Tom Richards, Rochester's Deputy Mayor and likely successor to Mayor Robert Duffy, about to become New York's Lieutenant Governor. This week, democracy on Perspectives.

 

December 18, 2010

This week Perspectives provides a political look ahead at New York State and the Nation in 2011. First, Fred Dicker, New York Post columnist and state editor, examines Andrew Cuomo's new senior staff -- and whether the Governor-elect will emulate former President Nixon's trip to China in 1972, using his liberal bona fides to deflect spending cut criticism as Nixon used his anti-Communist past to lessen barbs about the trek. Tom DeFrank, Washington Bureau Chief of the New York Daily News, will then address the recent tax compromise between President Obama and the Republican Congressional leadership -- and what if signifies politically and economically for the next two years.  This week, a look ahead, on Perspectives.

December 11, 2010

More than any month, December means nostalgia: hanging the Christmas tree, buying presents, attending parties with friends, year after year. This week, in nostalgia's greatest month, Perspectives explores nostalgia's greatest medium: radio. Steven Darnall hosts the radio series Those Were the Days and publishes the magazine Nostalgia Digest. He evokes the wireless's formative years and stars, from Graham McNamee and Jack Benny through Burns and Allen and Edward R. Murrow.  John Lewis has acted on television, in film, and in the theatre, also hosting the Internet radio show Sportscaster Chronicles. He details his new book, Radio Master: The Life and Times of Sports Broadcasting Great Ted Husing, recalling one of radio's leading broadcasters of the 1920s through '50s. This week: Nostalgia, on Perspectives.

 

December 4, 2010

This week Perspectives discusses the theme of help. Dr. Amit Batabyal, Professor of Economics at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Upstate New York, explores a new survey by the Brookings Institute that etches the alarming growth of suburban poverty in America -- and how the public and private sectors can help. Then, Kenneth Adams, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Business Council of New York State and a member of Andrew Cuomo's Transition Team on Economic Development and Labor issues, suggests what the Governor-Elect can do to aid Upstate New York's economy. This week: Help, on Perspectives.

 

November 27, 2010

This week Perspectives examines the 465,000-student and nearly three-million alumni State University of New York educational system, with particular emphasis on its specialized nature, financial status, and rising pressure on the middle class. Our guest for the entire hour is SUNY at Geneseo's President since 1995, Christopher Dahl, also a Professor of English and one of the Nation's leading Victorian scholars. Dahl heads what the New York Times calls "the most selective of all of SUNY's comprehensive colleges" and what is often termed "New York's public Ivy." He examines the SUNY system's goals of equality, quality, affordability, and autonomy -- and the Public Higher Educational Empowerment and Innovation Act before the New York State Legislature, which Dahl seems crucial to the future of the entire system. This week, the State University of New York, on Perspectives.

 

November 20, 2010

In Woody Allen's film Zelig, a fictional person is at or near great events of his time. This week Perspectives spends an hour with a real person who has helped shape some of the great subjects of our time. Duncan Moore is the Vice Provost and Area Coordinator of Entrepreneurship, Rudolph Hilda Kingslake Professor of Optical Engineering, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, and Professor of Business Administration at the University of Rochester. Dr. Moore details issues that he has confronted in the White House, academe, at NASA, and in business from optics and aging to the Internet and Upstate New York economic development. This week: subjects that affect us greatly, through a life that has helped shape them daily. Join us on Perspectives.

November 13, 2010

Last week Perspectives examined Election Day 2010: who won and lost, and why. This week the program eyes the other side of the off-year election. Doug Gamble has been an Orange County Register columnist and humor writer for, among others, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Mitt Romney, Bob Dole, and Bob Hope. He looks at why, amid a Republican Party nationwide sweep, Democrats won every statewide California office. Ted O'Brien is former Monroe County, New York, Democratic Party chairman and now a county Democratic legislator. He looks at why his party won every statewide office in the Empire State and the role of GOP Gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino in harming Republican momentum. This week: Election Day's other side, on Perspectives.

November 6, 2010

This week Perspectives replays Election Day 2010: a look back, then ahead. In New York State, Democrats won every statewide office: Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller, and both United States Senate seats. Talk show host and Western New York political activist Bill Nojay examines why Democrats prevailed despite the Nation's Republican Party tide. Jerry Zeremski is Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News. He details why Republicans made massive gains in the U.S. House of Representatives -- and what this might augur for President Obama and the 2012 Presidential election. This week: a memorable election, on Perspectives.

October 30, 2010 (Re-air) Please note that the podcast audio is the same as 14 Aug 2010

This week Perspectives recalls the legendary career of Mitch Miller: born, Rochester, New York, July 4, 1911; died, recently, at 99; conductor, musician, producer, the man who revolutionized the recording industry, discovered Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, and Patti Page, and made Sing Along With Mitch a 1960s network TV institution. Bonnie Boyd is Professor of Flute at the Eastman School of Music, from which Miller graduated in 1932. She recalls her fellow Eastman graduate, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra musician, colleague, and friend. Tom Hampson is among Upstate New York's leading musical authorities and host, WXXI AM and FM Radio's From The Jazz Cellar, heard each Saturday and Sunday evening. He examines how Miller transcended genre and medium, became what Bennett called "the first real producer," and emerged as a megapopular recording and television star. This week, Mitch Miller's extraordinary life, on Perspectives.

October 21, 2010

This week Perspectives explores A Bridge Too Far, to use the title of a 1970s movie about World War II. Donne Esmonde, a Buffalo News columnist, details what he deems the missing link in Buffalo's waterfront development: a bridge over the Buffalo River Channel to improve today's almost non-existent access. He terms it a bridge of necessity, not a bridge too far. Scott Pitoniak, a columnist, WROC TV Rochester football Bills analyst, and author of 14 books, discusses whether it is premature to think that Upstate New York college football, especially Syracuse University, has turned the corner. At 19, entrepreneur Tim Archetko opened a restaurant, Otto Tomotto's, in the Rochester suburb of Victor. Given the economy, some thought he might soon jump from a bridge. Instead, the now-26-year-old owner and executive chef discusses his thriving creation -- and the restaurant business as a whole. This week, A Bridge Too Far, on Perspectives.

October 16, 2010

This week Perspectives spends its entire hour with America's pre-eminent pollster, John Zogby, President and CEO of Zogby International and author of the best-selling book, The Way We'll Be. Zogby will discuss the theme of "on the eve." First, he examines the upcoming 2010 Election. Are Republicans headed for a landslide? Is President Obama a Democratic asset, or liability? Is the Tea Party a GOP boom, or bust? Which New York and national candidates are likely to win, and why? Zogby then recalls the eve of a one-year anniversary: His Western New York visit last fall with the legendary and since deceased Manute Bol to raise funds for starving, unschooled, and often orphaned children in Bol's native war-torn Sudan. Zogby will recall the late pro basketball star and humanitarian, describe his heroism, and tell how Bol's mission endures of building 41 schools for children now without a classroom using sticks and rocks to write under the shade. This week: "On the eve" with America's leading pollster on Perspectives.

October 9, 2010

Perhaps no time is as chockablock with sports as October. This week Perspectives examines three sports from the month's madding crowd. Dr. Lee Miringoff is Director of the Marist College poll, which recently released a survey of America's attitude toward college and professional football. He answers which is more popular, where, and why. Joe Castiglione is the long-time radio Voice of the Boston Red Sox. He explores the state of baseball, the need to lure younger fans, how the Red Sox became baseball's 2010 Medical Center, and whether the archrival New York Yankees can win their twenty-eighth World Series. Finally, Rochester, New York Democrat & Chronicle hockey writer and columnist Kevin Oklobzija salutes the National Hockey League's 2010-11 season, opening this week. Can the NHL build on hockey's great 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics? Can the Buffalo Sabres finally win their first Stanley Cup? If April is the cruelest month, October is arguably sports' greatest month. This week, on Perspectives.

October 2, 2010

This week Perspectives examines New York State's Upstate/Downstate divide, magnified by the Gubernatorial election between Democrat Andrew Cuomo and Republican Carl Paladino. The Buffalo News political reporter and columnist Bob McCarthy explores how Paladino, from Buffalo, hopes to win a decisive Upstate majority and thus stage an upset. Fred Siegel, Scholar in Residence at St. Francis College in Brooklyn and Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, details how the Empire State's two parts differ, and what that augurs for its government, the economy, and culture. This week: Upstate/Downstate, on Perspectives.

September 25, 2010

This week Perspectives explores Election Day: five weeks and counting. National Democratic Party consultant Hank Schoenkopf examines the fraying, if not crumbling, of President Obama's 2008 coalition. Then New York conservative activist and talk host Bill Nojay details the crumbling influence of the Empire State's Republican establishment, as shown by Carl Paladino's stunning rout of Rick Lazio in the recent GOP gubernatorial primary. This week's program discusses the scarcity of white hats in a political season of discontent, on Perspectives.

September 18, 2010

This week Perspectives eyes a look ahead. First, Dr. James Piereson, President of the William E. Simon Foundation and a Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, discusses his recent opinion column in The Wall Street Journal on the difference in college curricula between Harvard and Columbia: literally, two schools of thought adopted by virtually every college and university in the country. Then, Dr. W. Bradford Wilcox, Director of the National Marriage Project and Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Virginia, details how America's working class is drifting from a middle class with which it was once synonymous: less stable, more dysfunctional, less affluent, and less religious. This week: two vital issues for ourselves and our children, on Perspectives.

September 11, 2010

This week Perspectives examines Election Day 2010, barely seven weeks away. Bob McCarthy, political reporter and columnist for the Buffalo News, details various Western New York races and President Obama's influence on Democratic Party popularity. Fred Dicker, New York Post columnist and state editor, looks ahead to the Tuesday, September 14 Republican Party primary for New York Governor. Who will win: Rick Lazio or Carl Paladino? Jerry Zremski is the Buffalo News Washington Bureau Chief. He suggests national factors at play, exploring whether the GOP can win the U.S. Senate and/or House of Representatives. This week: local, statewide, and national politics on Perspectives.

September 4, 2010

In the week that America's combat mission ended in Iraq, Perspectives salutes America's fighting men and women -- indeed, military personnel, families, and veterans. Sean Wilenz is Professor of History at Princeton University, director of its program in American Studies, and author or editor of many books. He discusses America winning the unwinnable: the Revolutionary War. Edward Bonekemper is Professor of Military History at Muhlenberg College and a Civil War scholar. He details his book, A Victor, not a Butcher: Ulysses S. Grant's Overlooked Military Genius, about how Grant outgeneraled Robert E. Lee. Our final segment features the Professor of National Security Affairs at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. Douglas Porch talks about his book, The Path to Victory: The Mediterranean Theater in World War II. In a special week, Perspectives dedicates this program to special men and women.

August 28, 2010

This week Perspectives examines people who grew up within the series' listening area, then left, and may or may not return. Hank Greenwald was raised in the Rochester, New York, suburb of Brighton, attended Syracuse University, and became a nationally known sportscaster for, among others, baseball's Yankees, Giants, and A's. He speaks from his home in San Francisco. Doug Gamble was born in Montreal, moved to Hamilton and Toronto, Ontario, and in 1980 relocated to Southern California, becoming a writer for Ronald Reagan, Bob Hope, and Phyllis Diller. From Carmel, Gamble discusses how today's Canada more resembles 1980 America than does today's USA. Meghan Wier grew up in the Rochester suburb of Fairport, attended Ithaca College, formed an Upstate New York web design development company, then became a professional business blogger in South Carolina. Why did they leave? What would it take for them to return home? This week, on Perspectives.

August 21, 2010

This week Perspectives devotes the entire hour to a friend listeners know and love: Radio. Bruce DuMont's last name is synonymous with electronic media, his uncle having developed the cathode ray tube and founded the DuMont Television Network, a post-World War II industry pioneer. In the last thirty years Bruce DuMont has begun the syndicated weekly radio series, Beyond the Beltway, opened the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago, and founded its National Radio Hall of Fame -- the world's only such shrine. Next year the Museum will open its new headquarters. DuMont discusses radio's future, present dominated by political talk and niche programming, and a past from Graham McNamee to Jack Benny and Bob Hope that one writer called "the kingdom of art." This week, radio, on Perspectives.

August 14, 2010

This week Perspectives recalls the legendary career of Mitch Miller: born, Rochester, New York, July 4, 1911; died, recently, at 99; conductor, musician, producer, the man who revolutionized the recording industry, discovered Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney, and Patti Page, and made Sing Along With Mitch a 1960s network TV institution. Bonnie Boyd is Professor of Flute at the Eastman School of Music, from which Miller graduated in 1932. She recalls her fellow Eastman graduate, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra musician, colleague, and friend. Tom Hampson is among Upstate New York's leading musical authorities and host, WXXI AM and FM Radio's From The Jazz Cellar, heard each Saturday and Sunday evening. He examines how Miller transcended genre and medium, became what Bennett called "the first real producer," and emerged as a megapopular recording and television star. This week, Mitch Miller's extraordinary life, on Perspectives.

August 7, 2010

This week Perspectives examines intriguing books for August as Americans hit the beach, road, and backyard. Mark Bauerline is Professor of English at Emory University and director of a National Endowment for the Arts report on reading, or lack thereof. He discusses his book, published by Penguin: The Dumbest Generation: How the Digital Age Stupefies Young Americans and Jeopardizes Our Future. Roxanne Orgill is the author of a book about a 1930s and '40s America when radio was king: Dream Lucky, published by Smithsonian Books under the rubric Harper Collins. She recalls an age when the culture literally swung. Fifty-two years ago the New York Giants and Baltimore Colts played a National Football League title game that began professional football's coming of age as Big-Game America. Author Mark Bowdoin details his book, published by Atlantic Monthly Press: The Best Game Ever: The Birth of the Modern NFL. This week, suggested reading, on Perspectives.

July 31, 2010

This week Perspectives sings a little traveling music: Travel within and just beyond the Empire State. Mike O'Brian is YNN Television Rochester, New York's "Getaway Guy." He details his new book, The Getaway Guy: Road Trip Getaways with Mike O'Brian. 50 Fun-Filled Getaways in and around New York State from Jamestown's Lucy-Desi Museum via Buffalo's Naval and Military Park to Watkins Glen, Cooperstown, and Saratoga Springs. On September 19-24, visitors from 18 countries will travel to Rochester for the 23rd annual World Canals Conference. Chairman Thomas Grasso examines the conference's three objectives: using canals to spur economic development; revitalizing the waterfront; and utilizing the nonpareil legacy of New York's Erie Canal. As Jackie Gleason would say, "And away we go!" This week, travel, on Perspectives.

July 24, 2010

This week Perspectives presents something it hasn't in the seven-year history of the series: the verbatim rebroadcast of a past program. A week ago the show featured a segment on the Buffalo Bills, including its 1960s quarterback, Jack Kemp. Afterward numerous listeners contacted us to ask if we could reair a program originally broadcast upon Kemp's death in May 2009. The broadcast explores Kemp's two careers. Columnist and author Scott Pitoniak recalls Kemp's gritty leadership of the two-time 1960s American Football League champion Bills. Then, Kemp's close friend, Bills teammate, and former Erie County Executive Edward Rutkowski details his rise from Western New York Congressman to one of America's leading political figures: a rarity in today's politics, a healer, not hater. This week, at listeners' request: A salute to Jack Kemp, 1935-2009, on Perspectives.

July 17, 2010

This week Perspectives presents its annual summer look at sport. Scott Pitoniak is perhaps Rochester, New York's, most decorated sportswriter: author of 13 books, longtime former Gannett News Service columnist, and reporter covering the Buffalo Bills since 1985. He discusses his new book, Buffalo Bills Football Vault: The First 50 Seasons 1960-2009, a coffee-table type book which explores the Bills' good, bad, ugly, and above all, fascinating history. Sports editor of the St. Louis Globe-Democrat.com, Rob Rains has written 28 books, including with or about Mark McGwire, Jack Buck, and Ozzie Smith. Rains details his new novel, The Curse: Cubs! Cubs Win! Or Do They? about the beloved Chicago Cubs, whose last world title was in 1908. The show will also examine the state of baseball, the World Cup, and Lebron James's NBA signing. All this, on this week's Perspectives.

July 10, 2010

This week Perspectives devotes the entire show to the economy: Is it moving forward, stuck in neutral, or careering in reverse? Two writers for the Buffalo News examine employment statistics, economic growth, consumer confidence in the Obama Administration, and the possibility of a "double-dip" recession, among other issues. Bob McCarthy, News political reporter and columnist, explores whether the state of the economy will hurt the Democratic Party locally and nationally. David Robinson, the newspaper's economics reporter and columnist, details why lower unemployment, a "lagging indicator," so far has not followed economic recovery. This week, "It's the economy, stupid!" on Perspectives.

July 3, 2010

This week Perspectives salutes three movers and shakers, dreamers and doers, who helped change Upstate New York -- and helped Upstate change the world. Nora Bredes heads the Susan B. Anthony Center of Women's Leadership at the University of Rochester. She details Anthony, who pioneered, among many other things, equal pay for equal work, eight-hour work day, and women's right to vote.  Kathy Connor is the curator, George Eastman Collection of the George Eastman House in Rochester, New York. She recalls Eastman, the father of modern photography, who called it "a mirror with a memory." Catherine Clinton is the author of numerous books, including Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom." She explores Tubman, who helped rescue Southern slaves, remove them to safety, and was called during her life the most famous American woman in the world. This week: Upstate New York movers and shakers, on Perspectives.

June 26, 2010

This week Perspectives examines a timeless theme: What character is, and does. Historian Harry Turtledove, author of the acclaimed book about the Civil War, Fort Pillow, recalls what Abraham Lincoln faced as the 16th President prepared to issue the Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves. Author and Theodore Roosevelt scholar Edward Renahan details TR's life based on right, wrong, and being "in the arena," especially his Bull Moose third-party attempt in 1912 to win the Presidency. Douglas Porch is an historian, author of numerous books, and affiliated with the Naval Center in Monterey, California. He explores Great Britain's gallantry in World War II: alone, besieged, and inspired by Winston Churchill's leadership, winning the Battle of Britain against Nazi Germany -- and helping to save the Free World. This week, character, on Perspectives.

June 19, 2010

This week Perspectives celebrates an American Original: Samuel Langhorne Clemens -- Mark Twain. This year marks a trilogy of anniversaries: the 175th year of Twain's birth; 100th, death; and 125th, release of the classic Huckleberry Finn. In particular, the program examines his longstanding ties to Upstate New York, where Twain lived most of his final forty years and is buried. Barbara Snedecor is Director of the Center for Mark Twain Studies in Elmira, New York. She details the Center, its resources, attractions, lure to scholars, and why Twain so loved the Southern Tier. Michael Kiskis, perhaps America's leading Twain scholar, is the Leonard Tydings Grant Professor of American Literature at Elmira College. He recalls Clemens' extraordinary life -- and voluminous body of work. This week, Mark Twain, on Perspectives.

June 12, 2010

This Saturday, June 12, former President George H.W. Bush turns 86 years old. On his birthday, Perspectives recalls the man whose foreign policy President Obama says he admires. Roman Popaduick is former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, now Executive Director of the George Bush Presidential Library Foundation, and author of the book, The Leadership of George Bush: An Insider's View of the 41st President. The show will devote the entire hour to Bush's Presidency, including the dissolution of the Soviet Union, fall of the Berlin Wall, collapse of Communism, reunification of Germany, and Gulf War to rid Kuwait of Saddam Hussein. It will also recall Bush's "No new taxes" pledge, domestic agenda, loss to Bill Clinton in the 1992 Presidential campaign, later friendship with Clinton, and Obama's view of his foreign policy.  All on this week's Perspectives.

June 5, 2010

This week Perspectives examines digital's role in the transformation of the photographic industry -- and how its lessons can be applied to today's Internet transformation of the news industry. Our guest for the entire hour is a man who lived through the former, and now studies and comments upon the latter: Mike Benard, 1993-2006 Director of Communications and Public Affairs and Vice President of the Eastman Kodak Company -- and now involved as a speaker and discussion leader with the American Press Institute and International Newsmedia Marketing Association. This week, what print journalism can learn from photography, termed by George Eastman "a mirror with a memory." All on Perspectives."

May 29, 2010

This week Perspectives looks at Western New York, New York State, and national politics. Bob McCarthy, columnist of the Buffalo News, examines President Obama's recent trip to Buffalo. What was it designed to do? Is Obama's presence a help, or hindrance, to Democrats in the region? Fred Dicker is the New York Post columnist and State Editor. He explores Andrew Cuomo's official candidacy for Governor, announced this week. What are the presumptive Democratic candidate's strengths and weaknesses? Can any Republican be remotely competitive against him? Tom DeFrank is the Washington Bureau Chief of the New York Daily News. He details the national political landscape. Is the reemergence of illegal immigration as an issue a plus for the Republicans, or Democrats? Why did the state of Arizona recently pass immigration legislation? Politics, on this week's Perspectives.

May 22, 2010

This week Perspectives explores the senses of hearing, seeing, and smelling. Dr. James Willey is the esteemed composer and Distinguished Teaching Professor of Music Emeritus at the State University of New York at Geneseo. He compares teaching and composing; if you compose with the heart and/or brain; and what musical forms have affected his career. Dr. Kathryn White is Managing Director, Low Vision Services, at the Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired. She examines its history; link to Goodwill Industries International; Reachout Radio; and diseases like glaucoma. Walter Nelson is Agriculture and Horticulture Program Leader of the Cornell Cooperative Extension. As spring blooms, he details how and when to plant, prune, and mow; what flowers are especially popular in Upstate New York; and the services provided by his regional institution. This week, the senses of hearing, seeing, and smelling on Perspectives.

May 15, 2010

This week Perspectives explores three sides of print journalism. Melissa Chesse, Associate Professor of the Magazine Department at the Newhouse School at Syracuse University, details the state of the American magazine: today's special-interest niche v. yesterday's general-interest audience. Lee Capulla, Dean of the Jandoli School of Journalism and Mass Communication at St. Bonaventure University, examines newspapers: where they're headed; how they should adapt; and what the printed page can do that television cannot. Finally, Rick Wolff, author, WFAN New York talk host, and Vice President and Executive Editor of Warner Books, looks at the the book's strengths and weaknesses: How has the market changed? Do major publishers have a near-monopoly?  Are readers better off than, say, a quarter-century ago? This week: print journalism, on Perspectives.

May 8, 2010

This week Perspectives details two great American liberal rhetoricians: Franklin Roosevelt of New York and Adlai Stevenson of Illinois -- the former four times winning the Presidency; the latter, losing twice. William Leuchtenburg, Distinguished Professor of History Emeritus at the University of North Carolina, is arguably the Nation's leading Roosevelt scholar. He examines FDR's nonpareil ability to make Presidential language personal and persuasive. Like Leuchtenburg, David Greenberg is the author of numerous books: also, Professor of History, Journalism, and Media Studies at Rutgers University. He details how Stevenson used rhetoric to move millions -- but was not able to defeat rhetorically-challenged Dwight Eisenhower in the 1952 or 1956 Presidential campaign. In the near future, Perspectives will devote an entire show to President Obama's language. This week, it etches two skilled liberal predecessors.

May 1, 2010

This week Perspectives puts a new twist on the term town/gown: how gown, a college education, affects town, a graduate's career. David Turner, a 1972 graduate of the State University of New York at Geneseo, is Managing Director, Head of Private Equity, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. He explores how public education helped forged his rise. Ed Randall is an ESPN TV/Radio and Sirius XM Satellite Voice, long-time host of Ed Randall's Talking Baseball, and recently-named New York Yankees post-game TV announcer. He etches his education at Fordham University, a private religious college. Kenneth Adams, a Middlebury College graduate, former head of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, and now President and CEO of the Business Council of New York State, recalls the effect of his private school education. This week: town/gown, from all perspectives, on Perspectives.

April 24, 2010

This week Perspectives examines a major problem getting worse: New York State's property tax. Kent Gardner is President of the Western New York-based Center for Governmental Research. He details property tax's burden: incredibly, Western New York boasts America's highest 16 counties in terms of tax based on the percentage of home value. George Convoy is President of the area's Brighton Securities, a leading financial investment firm. He examines the effect of New York's tax structure, especially its
property tax, on people's capacity to buy and sell a home. An old baseball adage said of Washington, "First in war, first in peace, and last in the American League." This week's program examines a State that is first in property taxes, and increasingly trailing in ability to pay. All on Perspectives.

April 17, 2010

As economic malaise continues to cloak New York State, this week's Perspectives examines how the Empire State has reacted to past economic crises. David Schreve is an economic historian and former Professor of History at the University of Virginia. He recalls the Depression and how 1929-33 New York Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt responded. Fred Siegel is an historian, writer for publications including The Wall Street Journal, and author of numerous books including a biography of Rudolph Giuliani. He discusses the New York City of the mid-1970s, almost going bankrupt, and how that contributed to a nearly insolvent State. All on this week's Perspectives.

April 10, 2010

This week Perspectives presents a grand slam, touchdown, he shoots, he scores program, addressing three things at the front of Western New York's sports parade. Pete Weber is the former Voice of the National Hockey League Buffalo Sabres, now equally popular as TV broadcaster of the Nashville Predators. He etches the upcoming postseason playoffs, and whether the Sabres can win their first Stanley Cup. Scott Pitoniak is an award-winning columnist and author of 14 books, including this summer's hailing the fiftieth anniversary of football's Buffalo Bills. He details the upcoming National Football League draft, suggesting whom the Bills should draft: quarterback Jimmy Clausen of Notre Dame. Jim Mandelaro is the award-winning Rochester, New York, Democrat & Chronicle columnist and co-author, with Pitoniak, of the new book Silver Seasons and a New Frontier: The Story of the Rochester Red Wings, published by Syracuse University Press. He celebrates the opening of the baseball season, asking if Upstate New York's most popular team, the New York Yankees, can win their 28th World Series. All on this week's Perspectives.

April 3, 2010

This week Perspectives devotes its entire hour to a month that changed, perhaps saved, America: April 1865. Gary Gallagher, Professor of the History of the Civil War at the University of Virginia, recalls the four-year conflict that preceded it. Donald Miller, Professor of History at Lafayette University, etches the month that forged the war's close. Jay Winik, author of the best-selling book April 1865: The Month That Saved America and frequent contributor to television's History Channel, suggests how the month changed us, then and now. T.S. Eliot said that April "is the cruelest month." This week Perspectives recalls an April that remains unforgettable.

March 27, 2010

Recently Perspectives has devoted several shows to larger-than-life New Yorkers: the way we were. This week it devotes the entire hour to the way we are. Our guest is the author of The Way We'll Be: The Zogby Report on the Transformation of the American Dream -- John Zogby, America's pre-eminent pollster and President and CEO of Zogby International, located in his home town of Utica, New York. NBC's Tom Brokaw says, "John Zogby always knows the pulse of America." Zogby will discuss that pulse politically, domestically, and internationally. How do Americans regard President Obama? Does either party grasp the middle class? What is the health of U.S. peacemaking in the Middle East? How has the health care debate changed America at home? This week, the man who regularly examines America shares his findings with us, on Perspectives.

March 20, 2010

This week Perspectives continues its look at larger-than-life New Yorkers. Raised in Brooklyn, Shirley Chisholm became a New York City educator, New York State legislator, first black woman elected to the U.S. Congress, then first black candidate for U.S. President in 1972. Her Congressional successor, Edolphus Towns, representing New York's Tenth District, recalls a true pioneer for her race and sex. Robert Kennedy was a crime-busting lawyer, 1961-64 Attorney General, 1965-68 New York U.S. Senator, and might-have-been President. Jeff Shesol is a former Speechwriter to former President Bill Clinton, now member of the West Wing Writers, and author of several books, including the widely-praised book Mutual Contempt about the animus between Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson. He etches Kennedy the person and politician; RFK's 1968 Presidential campaign and assassination; and answers the question, "What kind of a President would Kennedy have been -- and what does he mean today?" This week, two extraordinary New Yorkers -- on Perspectives.

March 13, 2010

In a still larger-than-life Empire State, this week's Perspectives explores two larger-than-life New Yorkers. Mario Cuomo was New York's only three-term Democratic Governor, a man The Boston Globe called "America's most gifted philosopher-politician." Two guests -- Sandy Frucher, former aide and President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Stock Exchange and the distinguished New York Post columnist and State Editor Fred Dicker -- recall the presence who said you govern with prose but campaign with poetry. Ethel Merman was an authentic legend, nonpareil Voice, and for decades Broadway's brightest star. Said Irving Berlin: "You'd better not write a bad lyric for Merman because people'll hear it in the second balcony." Producer, lyricist, and musical historian John Kenrick remembers the incomparable Merm. This week: larger-than-life New Yorkers on Perspectives.

March 6, 2010

This week Perspectives explores celebrities from Upstate New York. As a child, Irving Crain of Livonia, New York, near Rochester, got a toy billiards table. A love of pool made Crain a memorable adult. His life is profiled by Mike Shamos, curator, Billboard Achieve, a non-profit Pittsburgh organization, and Distinguished Career Professor, School of Computer Science, at Carnegie-Mellon University. Sober or playing drunk, television actor Foster Brooks was unforgettable. Former Buffalo News critic Tony Violanti, entertainment critic of the Ocala, Florida, Star-Banner, examines a life largely forged by Buffalo. Cab Calloway was born in Rochester in 1907. The great pioneer and showman is profiled by the musical historian Charles Mancuso, author of numerous books including Music And the Underdog. This week, Upstate New York celebrities, on Perspectives.

February 27, 2010

This week Perspectives addresses issues of concern to Western -- indeed, Upstate -- New York. Recently, David Paterson formally announced his candidacy for a full term as Empire State Governor. New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker examines Paterson's odds. Americans have done surprisingly well at the 2010 Winter Olympics Games in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Buffalo News sportswriter Bucky Gleason reports from the Olympics site, citing reasons for U.S. excellence and asking if they're permanent. Finally, diabetes is a cruel and confusing disease. Sally Norquist, certified diabetes educator at Rochester, New York's Highland Hospital's Diabetes Health Source explores what the disease is -- and how we can combat it. This week, important Upstate issues, on Perspectives.

February 20, 2010

This week Perspectives explores a timeless literary tradition: the art form of anthology. Les Pickel is the editor of numerous anthologies and Associate Publisher of Warner Books. He explains what anthology is, how fiction and nonfiction differ, and how the art form works. Andrew Blauner heads Blauner Books and edited the anthology Coach: 25 Writers Reflect on People Who Made a Difference. Its contributors included such writers as George Plimpton, Pat Conroy, and Frank Deford. Blauner discusses how to choose an anthology's contributors so that they complement one another. Otto Penzler founded the Mysterious Press, wrote The Encyclopedia of Detection, and has edited the annual Best American Mystery Series Stories of the Year. The listener will hear him define what comprises a best-of-fiction book. This week: the anthology, on Perspectives.

February 13, 2010

This week Perspectives examines issues that affect children. Stephen Cook is Assistant Professor, General Pediatrics, at Golisano Children's Hospital in Rochester, New York. He explores the burgeoning issue of childhood obesity: What causes it? How can we stem its growth? Richard Whitmire is the author of the new book, Why Boys Fail: Saving Our Sons From an Educational System That's Leaving Them Behind. Why are boys falling behind in reading and writing skill? How can we reverse a troubling gender gap? Rick Wolff is an author, WFAN Radio New York talk host, and what Sports Illustrated terms "America's leading expert on sportsparenting." He describes how parents often act like juveniles: insulting, even attacking, coaches and friends of their own children. This week, issues affecting kids, on Perspectives.

February 6, 2010

This week Perspectives explores The Generation Gap: how people of different ages are alike and different. Dr. Sarah Atkinson is Medical Director of Upstate New York's Finger Lakes Clinical Research. She examines people of elementary through college age. What are they taught v., say, a quarter- and half-century ago? What is the effect? Dr. Robert Wuthnow is Professor of Sociology at Princeton University: also, author of numerous acclaimed books, including After the Boomers. He describes generations from World War II through Baby Boomer to today's. How have their values and priorities changed, for better and/or worse? This week, The Generation Gap on Perspectives.

January 30, 2010

This week Perspectives explores debate. Buffalo News Washington Bureau Chief and columnist Jerry Zremski debates the effect of President Obama's recent State of the Union address. Will it U-turn his Presidency, easing Obama's winter of discontent? On the eve of the Indianapolis-New Orleans Super Bowl, award-winning columnist and author of 13 books Scott Pitoniak debates whether football is America's favorite sport -- and/or New York State's. George Cook is Executive Professor of Marketing and Psychology at the University of Rochester's Simon School of Business. He details New York Governor David Paterson's current proposal to let grocery, convenience, and other food stores sell wine: until now, a privilege reserved only for liquor stores. This week, Perspectives surveys debate.

January 23, 2010

This week Perspectives examines the innovation of faith, hope, and charity. Faith: In 1988, HOK Sport architectural firm designed Buffalo's then-Pilot Field. Now the firm, renamed Populous, has built the new park of the Rochester Red Wings' parent club, the Minnesota Twins. Senior principal Earl Santee describes how. Hope: On January 28, Dr. Robert Atkinson, founder and President of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation in Washington, D.C. will speak at a seminar at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He previews how Western New York can forge an innovation economy. Charity: The State University of New York at Geneseo is known as one of America's leading public colleges. President Christopher Dahl details a pioneering mission that may make it among the most compassionate, too. For four years SUNY at Geneseo students and local Livingston County residents have traveled at their own expense to Biloxi, Mississippi, to help repair homes still ravaged by 2005's Hurricane Katrina. This week, on Perspectives.

January 14, 2010

This week Perspectives previews 2010. First, Buffalo News business reporter David Robinson analyzes the state of Western New York's economy. Where is it weak, and strong? How can small business, in particular, revive? Next, the program features Joseph Spector, reporter for Albany, New York's Gannett Newspapers, exploring what polling data calls the dysfunctional state of Empire State government. Who will win races for Governor, each U.S. Senate seat, New York's Congressional delegation, and the State Senate and Assembly? Finally, Thomas DeFrank is Washington Bureau Chief  of the New York Daily News. He previews Barack Obama's upcoming State of the Union address. Having plunged  in most national polls since taking office, how can the President begin his comeback and what will it rest upon? All this on this week's Perspectives."

January 9, 2010

This week Perspectives explores three issues that concern each New Yorker. 
E.J. McMahon, Executive Director of the Empire Center for New York State Policy, discusses taxes, especially property taxes, and his Center's new report on how to cut $30 billion from the State deficit. Steve McLaughlin is meteorologist of the National Weather Service in Buffalo. He examines whether January, not April, is the cruelest weather month, and the influence of the "Lake Effect" on Western New York. Robert Gerace is Adjunct Professor, Counter Terrorism, in the College of Civil Engineering and Environmental Management at Rochester Institute of Technology. He details the current state of airline and airport security and whether America is safe or not, and why. This week, on Perspectives.

January 2, 2010

This week Perspectives looks at careers: how they differ, and are alike. Peter King is a nationally-known CBS Radio News correspondent. He discusses covering events from NASA's Columbia accident to Hurricane Katrina to the Super Bowl and Michael Jackson's death. Joseph Rulison is managing director/market manager for Rochester, New York's J.P. Morgan private wealth management. He explores how to make and keep money in a difficult regional and national economy. Finally, Buffalo's Kevin Dillon is New York State Supreme Court Justice. He examines the law: defense lawyer v. district attorney; who should enter the legal field; and what traits are essential to succeed.

December 26, 2009

This week's Perspectives looks back at 2009. Buffalo News columnist Bob McCarthy explores the biggest, best, and worst Western New York stories. New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker examines New York State, including its capital: Just when you thought things couldn't get more dysfunctional, they did. Brian Tumulty of the Washington Bureau of Gannett News Service looks at the national landscape, especially spending, taxes, health care, and Barack Obama's falling polls. A look back at 2009 on this week's Perspectives."

December 19, 2009

This week Perspectives examines character. Martin Medhurst is a Baylor University scholar and editor of The Rhetoric and Religion book series. Exploring a Pew Forum poll on Religion in Public Life, he examines the extent to which America uses faith as a guide to life. Mike Isenberg is a Fox Television Emmy Award-winning producer. He discusses his book, The Longest Year, in which his family relied on character to confront adversity: the approaching death of his father. Nicholas DiFonzo is Professor of Psychology at the Rochester Institute of technology and author of the book, The Watercooler Effect. He ponders the fall from grace of golfer Tiger Woods -- and why character counts. All in this week's Perspectives.

December 12, 2009

This week Perspectives focuses upon turning the corner. Recently, the Labor Department announced a drop in the U.S. unemployment rate from 10.2 to 10 percent. David Robinson, economics writer for the Buffalo News, explores whether the national economy has turned the corner. A new Siena Research Institute poll details the attitude of New York State residents toward the economy. Director Douglass Lonnstrom explains whether the Empire State is showing consumer confidence -- and if not, why. Pete Weber once broadcast the Buffalo Bills, Bisons, and Sabres. Now Voice of the National Hockey League Nashville Predators, he examines Sabres goalie Ryan Miller, Western New York's growing interest in the team, and whether the Sabres have turned the corner toward their first Stanley Cup. All on this week's Perspectives.

December 5, 2009

If Virginia is the Mother of Presidents, New York is the Mother of First Ladies. This week Perspectives completes its look at the eight U.S. First Ladies born in the Empire State, focusing on three. Author and Vanity Fair writer Sally Bedell Smith discusses the grace and courage of Jacqueline Kennedy, who entered the White House at age 31. Pamela Reeves, biographer and Associate Editor of Scripps-Howard Media, explores America's perceived grandmere Barbara Bush, the wife of one President and mother of another. Finally, in an interview he gave Perspectives host Curt Smith not long before his death, Michael Deaver, former aide to President Ronald Reagan, recalls his good friend Nancy Reagan. In particular, Deaver details how Mrs. Reagan's image changed during and after her husband's Presidency. This week, on Perspectives.

November 28, 2009

To celebrate Thanksgiving, Perspectives hails things we should be thankful for.  Matthew Silverman discusses resilience, embodied by the hero of every dog that is under: the 40th anniversary of the 1969 New York Mets' stunning world championship. Silverman's new book, The Miracle Has Landed, recalls The Amazin' Story of How the 1969 Mets Shocked the World. This year marks another anniversary: 1939's legendary film Gone With The Wind. Author Sally Tippett Rains discusses abundance, the lack of which the movie poignantly portrays. Her new book examines the novel of the same name: The Making of a Masterpiece: The True Story of Margaret Mitchell's Gone With The Wind. Finally, this Thanksgiving celebrates the second chance. In the Buffalo Bills' 50th year, Associated Press sportswriter John Wawrow explores new hope for Upstate New York's favorite football team: coach Dick Jauron's firing, temporary new coach Percy Fewell's hiring, and what owner Ralph Wilson is likely to do to restore the Bills to competitive status. This week, things to be thankful for on Perspectives.

November 21, 2009

If Virginia is the Mother of Presidents, New York State is the Mother of First Ladies. This week Perspectives begins a series on American First Ladies born in the Empire State. Dan Preston is editor of the James Monroe Papers at the Monroe Museum in Virginia. He recalls Elizabeth Monroe, arguably more popular in France than America. Vassar College educator and author Rebecca Edwards remembers the megapopular Francis Cleveland, America's youngest-ever First Lady at the age of 22. Finally, David Roosevelt, author of the book Grandmere, explores his grandmother, the inimitable Eleanor Roosevelt, who held her job longer -- and changed it more -- than any First Lady had, or likely will. This week: American First Ladies born in New York, on Perspectives.

November 14, 2009

Barack Obama has said he admires the foreign policy of former President George H.W. Bush. This week Perspectives uses a new insider's book to examine arguably America's last nonpartisan President. Roman Popadiuk was Bush's Deputy Assistant, Deputy Assistant for Foreign Affairs, and the first U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine. His book, The Leadership of George Bush: An Insider's View of the 41st President, is among the first intimate looks at Bush the President and man. Among the events discussed: the fall of the Berlin Wall, Communism's decline, the Soviet Union's collapse, the invasion of Kuwait to defeat Saddam Hussein, the 1992 election, Bush's domestic agenda, and to what extent time has altered America's and the world's view of his Administration. This week, on Perspectives.

November 7, 2009

This week Perspectives examines trauma. Dr. Lawrence Aber is Professor of Applied Psychology and Public Policy at New York University: also, chair, its Institute for Human Development and Social Change. He addresses the varieties and effects of childhood trauma, as he will at a November 12 symposium at Rochester's Mt. Hope Family Center. Wendell Cox, co-author of a revealing new Empire Center for New York State Policy study, explores the trauma of New York State losing both income and population. Finally, Jerry Zremski, Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News, examines which political party should feel traumatized after the recent local, state, and national election, and why. This week, trauma, on Perspectives.

October 31, 2009

This week Perspectives explores "what happens when." Scott Pitoniak is one of America's finest sportswriters. He examines what happens when you change jobs in a given field: in the award-winning Pitoniak's case, from Gannett Company columnist to prolific author and internet columnist. Dr. Ernest Balajthy is Professor of Education and Program Director, Reading and Literacy, at the State University of New York at Geneseo. He dissects a new report in Futurist Magazine on how much Americans don't read.  Finally, John Zogby is the President and CEO of Zogby International: arguably America's most famed pollster. He tells the amazing story of joining former pro basketball star Manute Bol's heroic effort to build 41 schools for children in Manute's native war-torn Sudan. This week: "What happens when," on Perspectives.

October 24, 2009

This week Perspectives examines three famed generals who helped the United States win World War II. Kip Muir, historian at Virginia Military Institute, recalls "Blood and Guts," the theatric and controversial George S. Patton. Author and historian Michael Schallert recounts the flamboyant and eloquent Douglas MacArthur, who famously said "I shall return," and did. Samuel Brenner of Brown University details Dwight D. Eisenhower, five-star General, head of the 1944 "Operation Overlord" invasion of Europe, and future United States President. Three extraordinary men, leading America to victory in the world's first global war: this week, on Perspectives.

October 17, 2009

This week Perspecives explores "What next?" Buffalo News columnist Bob McCarthy explores why and how Buffalo, New York, downtown development is singing a nautical theme, including a Bass Pro Shop. Western New York commentator and political activist Bill Nojay discusses why any development theme for neighboring Rochester has proved elusive. Finally, Thomas Hahn, Professor of English, University of Rochester, etches how "what next?" can involve a rear-view mirror: an upcoming October 22-25 Flower City conference on the legendary character Robin Hood. This week, "What next?" on Perspectives."

October 10, 2009

This week Perspectives examines behavior: acting heroically, and abysmally. First, famed historian Arthur Herman discusses his dual biography of two heroic men: Gandhi and Churchill: The Epic Rivalry That Destroyed an Empire and Forged Our Age, published by Random House. Then, historian Fred Siegel, Visiting Professor at St. Francis College and contributing writer to the Manhattan Institute's City Journal, details New York State government acting abysmally in its capitol. Albany. This week, contrasting behavior, on Perspectives."

October 2, 2009

This week Perspectives examines character: what it is, and does. Historian Harry Turtledove, author of numerous books, including Fort Pillow, recalls the challenge Abraham Lincoln faced as he prepared to free slaves in the Civil War. Edward Renehan, author and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Association in Oyster Bay, New York, describes TR's valiant third-party attempt in 1912 to win the Presidency. Douglas Porch, historian and author of many books, details Great Britain's finest hour: the island nation fighting Nazi Germany alone in 1940-41 -- and ultimately, helping to save the Free World. All on this week's Perspectives.

September 26, 2009

This week Perspectives explores corruption: its different kinds, and which are on the rise. Richard Rosenbaum is former Chairman of Monroe County's and New York State's Republican Party, and author of the new book, No Room For Democracy: Thr Triumph Of Ego Over Common Sense. He discusses among, other things, whether some Democrats are corrupt to support taxpayer-funding of the controversial group ACORN: The Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now. Ted O'Brien is the former Chairman of Monroe County's Democratic Party and now Monroe County legislator. He suggests why noncompetitive political districts abet corruption, and what alleged police corruption in Greece, New York, might say about the Republican Party. This week, corruption on Perspectives.

September 19, 2009

This week Perspectives examines the family: more exactly, three aspects we might not usually consider. Carroll Doherty, Associate Director, Pew Research Center for the People and the Press, examines whether senior citizens are turning against President Obama's health care proposal. Tony Silvia, Professor, Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, explores the issue of nepotism, having written a new book Fathers and Sons In Baseball Broadcasting. Finally, Greg Franklin, an adoption lawyer and member, American Academy of Adoption, examines global and domestic adoption, what is involved with each, and what prospective adoption parents should keep in mind. This week, the family, on Perspectives.

September 12, 2009

This week Perspectives explores a variety of careers. Peter King of CBS Radio News is among America's finest broadcast journalists. He details covering events from NASA and Space Shuttle flights to Hurricane Katrina. Kevin Dillon of Buffalo is New York State Supreme Court Justice. He examines what it takes to succeed in the law, including traits needed to be a district attorney and defense counselor. Joseph Rulison is Managing Director/Market Manager for J. P. Morgan Private Wealth Management in Rochester. He suggests what it takes to make and expand wealth in a difficult economy. This week, careers, on Perspectives.

September 5, 2009

This week Perspectives hosts a Labor Day weekend salute to the work ethic. Neal Johnson is President and Chief Executive Officer of the New York State Special Olympics. He details how it began, what it does, and how it embodies working for a higher cause. Karen Smith-Bogart was once Senior Vice-President at the Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York. Now a small businesswoman in California, she discusses the start-up company, what skills an entrepreneur should have, and how education can complement work. Kent Gardner is President of Western New York's Center for Governmental Research. Among other issues, he explores whether the Empire State's fiscal policies reward, or penalize, those who toil and aspire. This week: the work ethic, on Perspectives.

August 29, 2009

This week Perspectives examines September's song of politics. Bob McCarthy, long-time political columnist of the Buffalo News, explores if the political landscape has changed enough to make the Republican Party successful in Western New York. Fred Dicker, political columnist and state editor of the New York Post, asks whether Governor David Paterson, his approval rating in the 20s, has passed the political point of no return. Jerry Zremski is the News' Washington Bureau Chief. He looks at the ongoing debate over health care. How has President Obama's falling popularity affected the dialogue? What is at stake, politically and economically? Which major party has more to gain, or lose? All on this week's Perspectives.

August 22, 2009

Historically, the Governor of New York State strides a national stage, crowded with precedent and superlative. This week Perspectives examines three Governors who changed the Empire State. Franklin D. Roosevelt led America's then-most populous state from 1929-33. Professor Bernard Bellush of the City University of New York etches how FDR presaged in Albany the New Deal he later brought to Washington. From 1943-55, Thomas E. Dewey gave New York a pioneering 486-mile Thruway, State University of New York, first state civil rights legislation, and yearly balanced budget. Richard Norton, author of Thomas E. Dewey and His Times, tells how. As 1959-74 Governor, Nelson A. Rockefeller swelled New York spending, taxes, business regulation, and government influence. His counsel, Robert Douglass, explores why -- and to what effect.  This week, three Governors who changed New York State on Perspectives.

August 15, 2009

The Bible tells of a prodigal son who leaves his family, then later surprisingly returns. This week's Perspectives etches three sons and daughters raised in the series' listening area who have left and may or may not return. Meghan Wier grew up in Western New York, helped found a local web design development company, then became a professional business blogger in South Carolina. Raised in Hamilton and Toronto, Doug Gamble moved to Southern California 29 years ago, becoming a columnist, lyricist, and writer for Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bob Hope, and Phyllis Diller. He explores reasons for possibly returning to Southern Ontario. Hank Greenwald grew up in the Rochester suburb of Brighton, graduated from Syracuse University, then became a nationally-known sportscaster. A long-time San Francisco resident, he notes differences among games he has broadcast, and places he has lived. All on this week's Perspectives.

August 8, 2009

This week Perspectives examines quality. It begins with Ted O'Brien, former Democratic Party chairman of New York's Monroe County. Now a County legislator, O'Brien talks about today's quality of political life. Jim Ranney is News Director of WNED, Buffalo's National Public Radio affiliate. He discusses radio trends and programming -- and why some broadcasters feel they have to fall to meet their audience, not asking the audience to rise to meet them. Finally, Kevin Doran is Rochester's WROC-TV CBS affiliate news anchor. He recalls the recently deceased Walter Cronkite: particularly, how Cronkite showed that a broadcaster can respect his audience -- and still keep his audience.  Quality, on this week's Perspectives.

July 25, 2009

Last year, "Perspectives" examined how to build a baseball park, home, and mall. This week it etches how to build inside: to cope. Dr. Suzanne Sachnowitz is the author of "Til Death: A Story of Survival and Renewal." She explores coping with ultimate tragedy: the death of a spouse. Rebecca Hagelin, the author of the book "Home Invasion: Protecting Your Family in a Culture That's Gone Stark-Raving Mad," suggests how a family can nurture self-denial, work, responsibility, and courtesy.  One of author Christina Hoff Sommers's most noted books is "One Nation Under Therapy." She argues that therapy can be a ladder -- but, more often, a crutch. This week: Coping, on "Perspectives."

July 18, 2009

This week "Perspectives" three cases of betrayal. In 1957, two baseball teams left New York for California, breaking the hearts of millions of people in New York City and Upstate New York. The Huffington Post columnist Robert E. Murphy discusses his new book, "After Many A Summer: The Passing of the Giants and Dodgers and a Golden Age In New York Baseball."  This week Republican Senators on the Senate Judiciary Committee questioned President Obama's Supreme Court nominee, Sonia Sotomayor. Political pollster and consultant Fritz Wenzel explores how they did.  Has the GOP betrayed, or kept faith with, its electorate? The madness of the last month in Albany, New York, has astounded those who thought they had seen it all -- and hadn't. Fred Dicker is columnist and state editor of the New York Post. He etches the plots and counterplots of New York Senate Democrats to keep their majority -- and Republicans to seize it. This week: Betrayal, on "Perspectives."

July 11, 2009

This week "Perspectives" conducts its annual tour of varied cultural and historical sites in and near New York State. Jim Mossgraber is Chief Operating Officer of the Genesee Country Village and Museum in Mumford, New York, between Buffalo and Rochester. He explores how telling biography can enhance American history. Dave Kaplan is Director of the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center in Montclair, New Jersey. He explains how amid U.S. economic trouble, a one-man shrine can arise and thrive. Libby Nord is Creative Director of the Lucy-Desi Museum in Jamestown, New York, the home town of the late Lucille Ball. She discusses how the Museum and Playhouse honor Lucy and Desi Arnaz -- the Queen of Comedy and television pioneer, respectively, who gave the world I Love Lucy. All on this week's "Perspectives."

July 4, 2009

As newspapers slash or eliminate book reviews, this week's "Perspectives" tries to fill the void. Noted sports author Rob Rains examines "Tony LaRussa: Man On a Mission" -- perhaps baseball's best and most misunderstood manager. A new religious study portrays an America overwhelmingly Christian -- but liberal Protestantism in freefall.  Syndicated columnist William Murchinson discusses his new book: "Mortal Follies: Episcopalianism and the Crisis of Mainline Christianity." Burt Solomon is a long-time correspondent for National Journal. His new book on America's 32nd President is perhaps relevant to the 44th: "FDR vs. the Constitution: The Court Packing Fight and the Triumph of Democracy." Solomon etches what Barack Obama might learn from Franklin D. Roosevelt. All on this week's "Perspectives."

June 27, 2009

This week Perspectives celebrates summer's start with summer reading. Mike Isenberg is Emmy Award-winning Fox TV coordinating producer and author of The Longest Year: One Family's Journey of Life, Death, and Love.  He tells how his family responded to his dad's fatal prognosis of pancreatic cancer. Jayson Stark, ESPN.com senior baseball writer and frequent ESPN TV contributor, is the author of Worth the Wait:  Tales of the 2008 Phillies. He explores what sports can mean to any title-winning town. Randi Minetor has written 23 travel guides in the last four years, most about national parks and national historic sites. She details how to brave such a heavy writing load -- and what New York State historic sites have to offer.  Reading, on this week's Perspectives."

June 20, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines the art form of teaching. Brian Brooks is the Principal of Walt Disney Elementary School in the Rochester, New York, suburb of Gates-Chili. He looks at the ideal teacher, and the priorities of elementary school students. James Williams is Superintendent of the Buffalo, New York, Public Schools. He details how teaching high school students has changed since Williams' career began forty years ago. Dennis Showers is Professor of Education at the State University of New York at Geneseo. He explores the attributes needed today to teach college students. This week: Teaching, on "Perspectives."

June 13, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines the past as prologue, recalling how New York State reacted to two economic crises: one similar to, the other greater than, the current downturn.  Economic historian, former University of Virginia Professor, and former Congressional candidate David Schreve retrieves the early 1930s Depression -- and how then-New York Governor Franklin Roosevelt vigorously responded.  Noted biographer and City College of New York historian Fred Siegel details a more recent crisis: the stagnant mid-1970s, when the Empire State and its largest city nearly went belly-up.  Today, with New York in even worse economic shape, Siegel suggests what lessons we should learn.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

June 6, 2009

This week "Perspectives" explores life's two certainties: death and taxes.  Art Wheaton is Industry Education Specialist at the Buffalo office of Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations.  He discusses an event that not long ago would have seemed unthinkable:  General Motors, dying as we know it -- bankrupt, at age 101.  Jay Gallagher is Gannett News Service Albany Bureau Chief and columnist.  He details how soaring New York State property taxes, exacerbated by sales and income tax, are taking a sledgehammer to the great middle class.  This week, death and taxes on "Perspectives."

May 30, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines the state of each major political party.  Fritz Wenzel is a veteran journalist, former aide to famed pollster John Zogby, and now a Republican consultant and head of the opinion firm Wenzel Strategies.  He explores the incredibly shrinking Republican Party -- or is it?  Out of power in New York State and the Nation, is the GOP out of gas? Hank Schoenkopf is one of America's leading Democratic consultants.  He discusses if the Obama Administration can help the Democrats make their getting that is good even better.  Albany and Washington, D.C. are now one-party cities.  Can a popular President make the U.S. in essence a one-party country?  This week, politics on "Perspectives."

May 23, 2009

This week "Perspectives" links yesterday, today, and tomorrow.  Thomas Grasso, President of the Canal Society of New York State, conjectures what might have happened if the early-19th Century Erie Canal had bypassed Buffalo and Rochester, as it nearly did.  Burt Nadler, Director of the Career Center at the University of Rochester, describes the effect of the recession on 2009 college graduates -- and the world they will encounter.  Finally, Bill Nojay, former Chairman of the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority, examines a crucial upcoming decision for the state's third-largest city:  Whether to build a $230 million downtown Renaissance Square.  Yesterday, today, and tomorrow on this week's "Perspectives."

May 16, 2009

This week "Perspectives" explores history.  Jeff Shesol is a former Speechwriter to President Clinton, member of the West Wing Writers Group, and author of the book  "Mutual Contempt: Lyndon Johnson, Robert Kennedy, and The Feud That Defined a Decade."  He discusses how memorable speech lines from Patrick Henry to Barack Obama have shaped American history, as shown in the new book, "The Final Four of Everything."  George Borelli is a former long-time political writer and columnist for the Buffalo Courier-Express and News.  He explores how Western New York history changed in the four decades (1950s to '90s) he covered politics.  Jim Mossgraber is the Chief Operating Officer for the Genesee Country Village and Museum in Mumford, New York, between Buffalo and Rochester.  He discusses the challenges historic institutions face amid America's economic downturn.  History, on this week's "Perspectives."

May 9, 2009

This week "Perspectives" salutes Jack Kemp, 1935-2009: athlete, politician, household name, family man.  Kemp, 73, died last week of cancer.  First, Scott Pitoniak, award-winning columnist and author of many books about the Buffalo Bills, recalls the talented, fearless 1960s quarterback of the two-time title-winning Bills.  Next, Kemp is remembered by his ex-teammate and political aide, former Erie County Executive, and close friend Ed Rutkowski.  Rutkowski examines Kemp's riveting political career:  nine-term Western New York Congressman, father of supply-side economics, 1988 Presidential candidate, 1989-93 Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and 1996 Republican Vice-Presidential nominee.  This week, we remember Jack Kemp, on "Perspectives."

May 2, 2009

This week "Perspectives" explores the food of New York State.  Patrick Hooker, New York State Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, discuses the importance of food safety. Alexa Gifford, Executive Director of the New York Wine and Culinary Center, details how good wine can make food taste even more superb. Art Rogers, owner and executive chef of "Lento," a leading Upstate New York restaurant, examines why buying local means eating better. All on this week's "Perspectives."

April 25, 2009

As newspapers slash or eliminate book reviews, this week's "Perspectives" picks up the torch.  Noted sports author Rob Rains examines "Tony LaRussa:  Man on a Mission" -- perhaps baseball's best and most misunderstood manager:  genius and/or martinet?.  A new religious study portrays an America overwhelmingly Christian -- but liberal Protestantism in freefall.  Syndicated columnist William Murchinson discusses his new book:  "Mortal Follies:  Episcopalianism and the Crisis of Mainline Christianity."  Burt Solomon is a long-time correspondent for National Journal.  His new book on America's 32nd President is perhaps relevant to the 44th:  "FDR vs. the Constitution: The Court Packing Fight and the Triumph of Democracy."  Solomon etches what Barack Obama might learn from Franklin D. Roosevelt.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

April 18, 2009

This week "Perspectives" describes April showers: several things that currently rain on Upstate New York's parade.  Bob McCarthy, the popular columnist of the Buffalo News, examines the Empire State's increasingly dysfunctional Democrat and Republican politics.  Pete Weber is the former Voice of the National Hockey League Buffalo Sabres and currently Nashville Predators.  With the Sabres and American Hockey League Rochester Americans missing the playoffs, he notes how hard it is to be a hockey fan, now that April's here.  Ronald Rochon is Dean of Buffalo State College's School of Education and Associate Vice-President of Teacher Education. He details the Center for Excellence in Urban and Rural Education.  Its goal:  Help students who are often overlooked.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

April 11, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines teaching:  the art form, and art.  Brian Brooks is the Principal of Walt Disney Elementary School in the Rochester, New York, suburb of Gates-Chili.  Among other things, he discusses Francis Xavier's phrase, "Give me a child until he is seven, and you may have him afterward."  James A. Williams, who in 1970 began a career as a teacher, counselor, administrator, and author, is the Superintendent of the Buffalo, New York, public schools.  He details how teaching high school students has changed.  Finally, Dennis Showers, Professor of Education at the State University of New York at Geneseo's School of Education, suggests what is required to become a truly gifted college teacher.  This week, teaching, on "Perspectives."

April 4, 2009

This week "Perspectives" celebrates the opening of a new baseball season by recalling two of its greatest legends: each, born outside New York State; both, becoming institutions within it.  For decades, Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees announcer Red Barber, born in Mississippi, was heard in every Upstate New York burg.  Barber's later role on National Public Radio cemented his legacy.  Pat Hughes, radio Voice of the Chicago Cubs, recalls a man impossible to forget.  Born in Missouri, Yogi Berra lived the American Dream: an immigrants' son, then Yankees player and manager, and ultimately perhaps America's most quoted personality.  Allen Barra, contributing writer to The Wall Street Journal, details his new book, Yogi Berra:  Enternal Yankee, describing baseball's most beloved man.  Join us as we salute the 2009 season by hailing Red Barber and Yogi Berra on "Perspectives." 

March 28, 2009

This week "Perspectives" asks whether New York State is becoming California. Joe Mathews is Los Angeles Times contributing editor, political biographer, and Irvine Senior Fellow at the New America Foundation.  He explores what California may portend socially and culturally.  Fred Dicker, New York Post columnist and state editor, examines the striking political parallels between the bicoastal now- and once- most populous states.  Finally, E.J. McMahon, Director of the Empire Center for New York State Policy and Senior Fellow, Manhattan Institute, asks what economic lessons California teaches -- and whether the Empire State is learning them.  Even California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger proclaims his state "close to fallling off the cliff."  Is New York State following its policies -- and fate?  All on this week's "Perspectives."

March 21, 2009

This week "Perspectives" recalls how New York State has reacted to past economic crises -- specifically, in this show, the Great Depression and mid-1970s.  David Shreve is an economics historian, past candidate for United States Congress, and former Professor of History at the University of Virginia.  He relates how Franklin Roosevelt, then Governor, responded to the Depression, auguring many of the programs FDR later brought to the Presidency. Fred Siegel is the Professor of History at The Cooper Union in New York City, frequent contributor to the Wall Street Journal and New York Post, among others, and author of four books, including Giuliani, New York City, and the Genius of American Life.  He details the mid-1970s fiscal crisis that almost bankrupted New York City and ravaged New York State.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

March 14, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines events and personalities that may change Western New York.  Bill Nojay, former Chairman of the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority, explores whether Rochester should build a downtown Renaissance Square and/or a multi-modal transportation center? Cathy Woodruff, reporter for the Albany Times-Union newspaper, details a proposed high speed and/or light rail train between Buffalo and New York City.  John Wawrow, a sportswriter for Associated Press, relates the Buffalo Bills' surprising signing of controversial receiver Terrell Owens.  Why was he signed? What are the potential pros and cons?  All on this week's "Perspectives."

March 7, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines reading, writing, and arithematic.  Joseph Flaherty is founder and president of the Rochester, New York, Writers and Books, among Upstate New York's leading literary groups.  He details the state of reading in America. Bill Kauffman is author of eight books, including the current "Forgotten Founder, Drunken Prophet:  The Life of Luther Martin."  He explores the craft of writing.  Charles Brown heads the Rochester Area Colleges Center for Excellence in Math and Science, a group of 19 post-secondary educational institutions in West and Central New York.  He asks whether America is proficient in math and science.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

February 28, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines news up-close and personal in Western New York.  Peter Iglinski is Executive Producer of News and Public Affairs at WXXI Radio in Rochester.  Among other things, he talks about what news means to the listener -- and area.  Jim Ranney is News Director of WNED Buffalo.  He discusses the role of news in the Niagara Frontier -- and how Buffalo has abided the last-year loss of Jimmy Griffin, Tim Russert, and recent airplane crash victims.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

February 21, 2009

This week "Perspectives" examines the concept of rebirth.  Scott Hetsko, WROC CBS-TV Rochester Meteorologist, explores why February and early March weather is so volatile:  65 degrees one day: snow, the next.  Josh Whetzel is play-by-play broadcaster of baseball's Rochester Red Wings and basketball's University of Buffalo Bulls.  He suggests why, especially in the frigid Northeast, the coming of baseball -- the summer sport -- denotes the rebirth of spring.  Brock Yates, a resident of Wyoming, New York, between Buffalo and Rochester, is the legendary Car & Driver Magazine editor, author, screenwriter, racer, and television commentator.  He details how the auto industry hopes to be reborn -- and what challenges confront it.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

February 14, 2009

This week "Perspectives" continues its recurrent series on United States Senators from the Empire State. Joseph Mercucio, president, National Political Services, Inc., is among America's leading political consultants. He addresses the career of liberal Republican Jacob Javits, U.S.Senator 1957-81. George Marlin is former New York City Conservative Party Mayoral nominee; former executive director of the New York and New Jersey Port Authority; and author and leading conservative activist.  He recalls James Buckley,U.S. Senator 1971-77, especially Buckley's historic 1970 upset victory as Conservative Party candidate that augured Richard Nixon's landslide 1972 Presidential victory.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

February 7, 2009

This week Perspectives explores three well-known New Yorkers in the news. Nearly half-a-century after her death, Eleanor Roosevelt still looms large in the Empire State's consciousness. Scholar Allida Black, Editor of the Eleanor Roosevelt Papers at George Washington University in Washington, examines the woman Adlai Stevenson called "First Lady of the World."  David Paterson has been New York's Governor less than a year.  Gannett News columnist and Capital Bureau Chief Jay Gallagher examines the man who created a firestorm by recently naming Kirsten Gillibrand Hillary Clinton's successor as New York's Junior U.S. Senator.  Finally, Brian Tumulty, reporter in Gannett's Washington Bureau, explains what the new Senator and former U.S. Congresswoman brings to her office: strengths and weaknesses, past record and future potential, and why she was chosen over other candidates.  All on this week's Perspectives.

January 31, 2009

This week Perspectives examines two noted United States Senators from New York State.  First, the program recalls 1959-65 Senator Kenneth B. Keating with Upstate conservative activist Bill Nojay, who once ran for Keating's U.S. Congressional seat. Then, author and former Presidential speechwriter Jeff Shesol explores the man who succeeded Keating in the Senate from 1965-1968, former Attorney General and 1968 Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy. Join us on Perspectives for a look at two public figures whose legacy endures.

January 24, 2009

This week Perspectives details the state of New York State's economy.  Robert Ward, Deputy Director of the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government in Albany, examines the Empire State's economic strengths and weaknesses.  Fred Dicker, New York Post columnist and State Editor, explores what the State Assembly and Senate are doing to help the economy -- or not.  Jim Milroy is Assistant Vice President for Budget and Governmental Relations at the State University of New York at Geneseo.  He etches perhaps the brightest spot in a dismal economy:  higher education's growing role.  This week, the state of the State's economy, on Perspectives.

January 17, 2009

This week "Perspectives" explores a rite dating back to George Washington:  The Inauguration of an American President.  On January 20, Barack Obama takes the oath of office.  William Leuchtenburg, Distinguished Professor of History Emeritus at the University of North Carolina, is America's leading scholar of Franklin Roosevelt.  He examines FDR's four Inaugural Addresses in 1937, 1941,  1945, and especially 1933.  Raymond Price was Richard Nixon's Chief Speechwriter, author of the book "With Nixon," and former President of the Economic Club of New York.  Price recalls the two Inaugurals he helped Nixon write:  1969's and 1973's.  Robert Schlesinger of U.S. News & World Report is the author of the recently published book, "White House Ghosts:  Presidents and their Speechwriters."  He looks at the last Democratic President, Bill Clinton, and how Obama rhetorically compares with him.  Join us on this week's "Perspectives" as America makes history.

January 9, 2009

This week "Perspectives" profiles two freedom fighters from Upstate New York.  Frederick Douglass, the famed U.S. abolitionist, women's suffragist, editor, author, orator, diplomat, and reformer, spent much of his life in Rochester.  Frank Faragasso, official historian, National Capitol Parks East in Washington, recalls the man who said, "I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong." John Brown, who lived in North Elba, in eastern New York, is the abolitionist who advocated and practiced armed insurrection as a means to end all slavery.  Historian David Reynolds, author of "John Brown, Abolitionist:  The Man Who Killed Slavery, Sparked the Civil War, and Seeded Civil Rights," examines the man still deemed a madman by some and martyr and visionary by others.  This week, two Upstate New Yorkers who forged the America in which we live, on "Perspectives".

January 3, 2009

This week "Perspectives" salutes a famed son and daughter of the same Upstate New York town:  Auburn, an hour and two hours east of Rochester and Buffalo, respectively.  William Seward was a United States Senator, New York's 12th Governor, and America's 24th Secretary of State.  Peter Wisby, Director of the Seward House in Auburn, recalls the legend known as Abraham Lincoln's "Right-hand Man" and the person who helped purchase Alaska.  Auburn's iconic daughter was Harriet Tubman, a freedom-fighter, abolitionist, and founder of the Underground Railroad.  America's leading Tubman biographer, Kate Clifford Larson, is the author of "Bound for the Promised Land:  Harrriet Tubman, Portrait of an American Hero."  She explores how 2009 will have special meaning for Tubman's amazing life.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

 

Dec. 27, 2008

This week "Perspectives" examines reading, writing, and arithematic.  Joseph Flaherty is founder and president of the Rochester, New York, Writers and Books, among Upstate New York's leading literary groups. He details the state of reading in America.  Bill Kauffman is author of eight books, including the current "Forgotten Founder, Drunken Prophet:  The Life of Luther Martin."  He explores the craft of writing.  Charles Brown heads the Rochester Area Colleges Center for Excellence in Math and Science, a group of 19 post-secondary educational institutions in West and Central New York.  He asks whether America is proficient in math and science.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

Dec. 20, 2008

This week "Perspectives" looks at buying and selling.  Bruce DuMont is Founder and President of the National Radio Hall of Fame and Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago: also syndicated radio host of "Beyond the Beltway." He examines Illinois' disgraced Governor, Rod Blagojevich, accused of trying to sell a U.S. Senate seat.  Patrick Heraty is Professor of Business, Hilbert College, near Buffalo, New York.  He details why General Motors and Chrysler are on the brink of bankruptcy; what they would use a requested $14 billion Federal bailout for; and why Congress has balked.  George Conboy is President, Brighton Securities, a Rochester, New York, investment firm.  He explores what may be the largest swindle -- Bernard Madoff's $50 billion Ponzi scheme -- ever perpetrated by a single person.  Buying and selling:  on this week's "Perspectives."

Dec. 13, 2008

This week "Perspectives explores the food of New York State -- which largely means the food of Upstate New York.  Patrick Hooker is the Empire State's 26th Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets.  He examines food safety, among other challenges.  How is it guaranteed from producer to retailer?  Art Rogers, only 31, is owner and executive chef of a leading Western New York restaurant, Rochester's Lento.  He discusses why an eatery buying locally translates into patrons eating better.  Alexa Gifford is Executive Director of the New York Wine and Culinary Center.  She details how interest in wine has increased in the last decade -- and how New York wines have soared in reputation and sales.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

December 6, 2008 -

This week "Perspectives" explores New York State:  who we are, and are becoming.  Kent Gardner, President and Chief Economist of the widely-respected Center for Governmental Research, looks at Empire State demographics:  who's arriving, who's leaving, which groups are growing and shrinking.  Kevin Licari is a senior in the Business School of the State University of New York at Geneseo.  The Port Jefferson, New York, native examines why some college graduates stay in New York -- and others leave.  Finally, Jeffrey Dinowitz is New York State Assemblyman, 81st District, and chairman, State Assembly Committee on Aging.  He explores how New York is becoming an increasingly graying society -- and what seniors' needs and priorities are.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

November 29, 2008 -

This week "Perspectives" explores the Nation's and New York State's transition:  America's, to Barack Obama; the Empire State's, to one-party rule.  Harold Holzer is one of the great students of Abraham Lincoln, writing more than 30 books on Lincoln and the Civil War.  His new book, "Lincoln President-Elect:  Abraham Lincoln and The Great Secession Winter 1860-61," examines how Lincoln dealt with imminent civil war.  Among other things, Holzer discusses the many parallels between Lincoln's and Obama's transition.  "Perspectives" then explores New York State's transition to the Democratic Party controlling the Governship and State Senate and Assembly.  James Bowers is Professor of Political Science, St. John Fisher College, and former member, Rochester, New York School Board.  He examines the pros and cons of one-party government.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

November 22, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores building. Tim Tielman is Executive Director of the Campaign for Greater Buffalo History, Architecture, and Culture.  He discusses a recent major The New York Times story on "Buffalo's Untold [Architectural] Beauty" -- and how, as Churchill said, "We shape our buildings. Thereafter, they shape us."  Michael Meyers is Executive Director of the New York Civil Rights Coalition and former official of the nation's oldest civil rights organization, the NAACP.   He examines Barack Obama's potential to build a truly colorblind society by moving beyond race.  Richard Dollinger is a former Judge and New York State Senator from the 56th District.  As a Democrat, he muses about how the Republican Party should try to rebuild itself.  This week, on "Perspectives."

November 15, 2008-

This week Perspectives explores the soon-to-be 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama.  Bruce DuMont is founder, president, and CEO of the Museum of Broadcast Communications and president of the National Radio Hall of Fame.  He also hosts the syndicated and XM Radio series, Beyond the Beltway.  All of these are situated in Chicago, Illinois, Obama's home town.  Dumont has known the President-Elect since Obama's 1990s days in the Illinois State Senate.  Obama has been a Beltway guest, as have his new Chief of Staff, Rahm Emmanuel, and longtime political counselor, David Alexrod.  DuMont will talk at length about Obama's career, political success, and potential as President -- why he won the Nation's highest office, and what challenges he will face.  This week, the entire hour on Barack Obama, on Perspectives.

November 7, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" recalls three transformational Presidential electionns:  results which made a difference.  Donald Ritchie, Associate Historian of the United States Senate, is the author of eight books, including Electing FDR:  The New Deal Campaign of 1932.  He remembers the 1932 election:  a landslide for Franklin Roosevelt, inaugurating the New Deal's four-decade primacy.  David Greenberg, Professor of History and Media Studies at Rutgers, has written four books, including Nixon's Shadow.  He examines the 1968 campaign that elected Richard Nixon -- and inaugurated the forty-year reign of the Silent Majority.  Finally, Jerry Zremski, Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News, describes the historic 2008 campaign.  What does Barack Obama's election as President mean?  How will it be remembered? What lies ahead?  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

November 1, 2008-

This week Perspectives examines decisions.  On the eve of Election Day, famed pollster John Zogby, president and CEO of Zogby International, muses whether John McCain can overcome Barack Obama's substantial popular vote and electoral college lead.  Patrick Heraty is Professor of Business Administration at Hilbert College.  He explores how General Motors declined from America's crown business jewel to a company that may merge with Chrysler -- and/or seek a Federal bailout.  Finally, Bob Marcott, columnist for the Rochester, New York, Democrat & Chronicle, relives the decision to allow women to enter the workforce in World War II -- and the difference in the war's outcome that it made.  This week, decisions, on Perspectives."

October 25, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" links yesterday, today, and tomorrow.  Gannett News columnist and Capital Bureau Chief Jay Gallagher explores why the recent Wall Street meltdown was especially injurious to New York State.  Former three-term Rochester, New York Mayor Bill Johnson, now Distinguished Professor, Public Policy at Rochester Institute of Technology, explores the candidacy of Barack Obama.  Finally, Jerry Zremski, Washington Bureau Chief, The Buffalo News, outlines the state of the Presidential campaign 10 days from Election Day.  This week, on "Perspectives."

October 18, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" recalls the 100th anniversary of the birth of New York State's longest-running Governor.  Nelson A. Rockefeller was born in 1908, died in 1979, and served as 1959-73 Governor.  Elected four times, he had an enormous effect on the Empire State.  George Marlin is the author of 10 books, former Conservative Party nominee for Mayor of New York, and former CEO of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.  He discusses Rockefeller's economic policies that changed his state for better and worse.  Gerald Benjamin, Associate Vice President for Regional Engagement at SUNY at New Paltz, has authored and edited three books on Rockefeller.  He examines the former Governor's legacy -- and why Rockefeller failed to attain his greatest goal:  the Presidency.  This week:  Remembering Nelson Rockefeller, on "Perspectives."

October 11, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" debates the 2008 Election, now three weeks away.  Doug Gamble is a former writer for Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Mitt Romney, and Bob Hope.  He explores the Presidential and Vice-Presidential debates:  who's winning, and why.  Nationally known Republican pollster Whit Ayres scans the coast-to-coast electoral map.  Why is Barack Obama apparently leading?  Can John McCain catch up?  Hank Schoenkopf is one of America's leading Democratic consultants.  He discusses how the Wall Street financial crisis may be helping Obama -- and how McCain might respond.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

October 4, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines activism.  Richard Rosen, Vice-President, Education and Philanthropy, Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbis, Ohio, details an October 10 Western New York economic summit in which he will participate:  Eyes on the Future.  John Greenbaum is the organizer of the Rochester, New York group, Metro Justice.  He discusses social activism from stopping corporate welfare to ending the Iraqi war.  Tony Proietti, past president of the Cleveland Browns Backers, explains how community activism spurred the National Football League to replace the team that Cleveland, Ohio, lost.  This week, activism, on "Perspectives."

September 27, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" asks, "Are you ready for some football?":  to be precise, Upstate New York's favorite pro football teams.  Scott Pitoniak is award-winning Gannett News Service columnist and author of many books about the Buffalo Bills, including The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly.  He discusses the Bills' memorable nearly half-century history.  Pete Fierle of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, recalls the birth, death, and renewal of the Cleveland Browns, including the legendary career of Syracuse University's Jim Brown.  Jack Cavanaugh is the author of the new book, Giants Among Men:  How the Giants Made New York a Football Town and Changed the NFL.  He details how the late 1950s and early '60s New York Giants became the first America's Team and captivated Western New York.  This week:  Which pro football teams we love, and why, on "Perspectives."

September 20, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines the state of the 2008 campaign six weeks before Election Day.  Tom DeFrank, New York Daily News Washington bureau chief, explores the effect of Sarah Palin on the McCain-Obama race.  Fred Dicker, New York Post State editor and columnist, discusses whether McCain can actually win New York State -- and how Wall Street upheaval may change the race.  Bob McCarthy, political columnist of the Buffalo News, examines how perceived movement to the GOP may affect Western New York -- and if the political momentum is permanent.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

September 13, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores who Americans are.  Famed pollster John Zogby discusses his new book, "The Way We'll Be:  The Zogby Report on the Transformation of the American Dream," then examines the 2008 Presidential election.  Bill Nojay is a Western New York political activist and John McCain delegate to the recent national Republican Convention.  He looks at the nomination of Sarah Palin as McCain's Vice-President -- and how that has altered the race.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

September 6, 2008-

If Virginia is the Mother of Presidents, New York is the Mother of First Ladies.  Last week "Perspectives" examined three of the eight American First Ladies born in the Empire State.  This week it notes the others, focusing on three.  Vanity Fair Magazine writer and author Sally Bedell Smith focuses on the enduring lure of Jacqueline Kennedy.  Author and Scripps Howard Newspapers reporter Pamela Reeves details her subject of two biographies:  Barbara Bush, wife of one President and mother of another.  In an interview recorded before his death, a long-time aide to Ronald Reagan, Michael Deaver, explores the life and legacy of close friend Nancy Reagan.  This week, American First Ladies born in New York on "Perspectives."

August 30, 2008-

If Virginia is the Mother of Presidents, New York State is the Mother of America's First Ladies.  This week "Perspectives" begins a series on all eight born in the Empire State.  Dan Preston, editor of the papers of James Monroe, details Elizabeth Monroe, more popular in France than in America.  Author Rebecca Edwards recalls the popular Frances Cleveland, who became First Lady at age 22.  Finally, author David Roosevelt remembers his grandmother, Eleanor Roosevelt, who held the job longer than any First Lady had, or ever will.  Next week the program recalls the other five First Ladies born in New York.  This week begins with three, on "Perspectives."

August 23, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines foreign policy.  Jerry Caraccioli, a network TV executive, has co-authored with brother Tom a new book on the United States boycott of the 1980 Summer Olympics:  Boycott:  Stolen Dreams of the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games.  He recalls the reasons for the boycott -- and the price U.S. athletes paid.  Upstate New York's Keuka College boasts perhaps the largest number of Chinese students of any U.S. college studying in China for a U.S. degree.  President and Chinese-American expert Joseph Burke examines the 2008 Summer Olympics, ending in Beijing, and how the world's most populous Nation has changed.  Robert Goeckel is Professor of Political Science and International Relations at the State University of New York at Geneseo.  He also heads the university's study program in Russia.  Goeckel discusses Russia's recent invasion of Georgia, including what's at stake for American-Russian Relations.  This week:  foreign policy, on "Perspectives."

August 16, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" continues its series of programs on special Upstate New Yorkers.  For forty years Joseph Crangle has been the Empire State's sage of Democratic politics:  former New York State and Erie County Democratic Party chairman; delegate to seven national conventions from 1968 to 1992; chief aide to five State Assembly speakers; and key supporter of candidates from Robert Kennedy to Bill Clinton.  He will discuss his career; how politics has changed; the state of today's Democratic Party; and the current Presidential campaign.  This week:  Joseph Crangle, on "Perspectives."

August 9, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" continues a series of one-hour looks at special Upstate New Yorkers.  Born in 1931 in Oswego, Richard Rosenbaum has been a State Supreme Court Justice, delegate to five Republican national conventions, New York State GOP Chairman, Republican National Committeeman, and U.S. Holocuast Memorial counsel. Our show examines his career; relationship with long-time New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller; role in the 1976 Ford-Reagan GOP nomination struggle; view of 2008 politics in each major party; and life in Western New York today.  This week:  RIchard Rosenbaum, on "Perspectives."

August 2, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" addresses issues that affect us locally, nationally, and globally.  Locally:  Peg Churchill is President, Western Erie Canal Alliance.  She discusses the economic and scenic state of the 134-mile corridor of the Erie Canal from Buffalo to Syracuse.  Nationally,  the  Corporation of National and Community Service has just released a report on voluntererism.  A major official, LaMonica Shelton, examines how well Western New York and America are faring.  Globally, China is about to host the 2008 Summer Olympics.  Gannett News Service award-winning columnist Scott Pitoniak will be covering the Games.  He tells what to look for, and how China's compare to past Summer Olympics.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

July 26, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores how historic shrines in and near Upstate New York fuse what we were, and are.  Jeff Idelson, President of the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, details this weekend's annual Induction in Cooperstown -- and how the past meets the present.  Ray Wigle is Director of Operations, Old Fort Niagara, north of Buffalo.  He examines how recalling yesterday -- e.g. the Fort's 300-year history -- can enrich today.  James Donahue, President and Chief Executive Officer of Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, suggests how to sell history in a history-challenged age.  This week:  regional historic shrines, on "Perspectives."

July 19, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" recalls the 100th anniversary of the birth of New York State's longest-running Governor.  Nelson A. Rockefeller was born in 1908, died in 1979, and served as Governor from 1959-73.  Elected four times, he had an enormous effect on the Empire State.  George Marlin is the author of 10 books, former Conservative Party nominee for Mayor of New York, and former CEO of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.  He discusses Rockefeller's economic policies that changed his state for better and worse.  Gerald Benjamin, Associate Vice President for Regional Engagement at SUNY at New Paltz, authored and edited three books on Rockefeller.  He examines the former Governor's legacy -- and why Rockefeller failed to attain his greatest goal:  the Presidency.  This week:  Remembering Nelson Rockefeller, on "Perspectives."

July 12, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores politics post-Fourth of July.  Reihan Salam, writer for the Atlantic, discusses his new book, Grand New Party:  How Republicans Can Win the Working Class.  Famed Democratic political consultant Hank Schoenkopf examines Barack Obama's campaign -- and who the Presidential candidate might choose as Vice-Presidential running mate.  Recently, Monroe County Republican Chairman Steve Minarik was fired after 16 years in that position.  Minarik's former counterpart, Democratic chairman-turned-county legislator Ted O'Brien, suggests why -- and what it means for Upstate New York politics.  This week, mid-summer politics on "Perspectives."

July 5, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" continues its ongoing look at celebrities from Upstate New York.  Noted music author and historian Charles Mancuso recalls Cab Calloway, who once said, "Every time I make an appearance on the stage is a highlight of my life."  Caroline Yeager of the George Eastman House's Motion Pictures Association explores the ubiquitous Garson Kanin.  Also, longtime Buffalo News sports columnist Larry Felser remembers the legendary baseball manager of the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, Joe McCarthy.  Hear their stories on this week's "Perspectives."

June 28, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" features a belated post-Fathers Day Salute to Dad.  Columnist Paul Newport of The Wall Street Journal recalls golf's dramatic recent U.S. Open, starring two fathers devoted to their children and their craft: champion Tiger Woods, whose daughter just turned one, and runner-up Rocco Mediate, with three teenage sons. Also, syndicated columnist Kathleen Parker details her new book, "Save the Males:  Why Men Matter, Why Women Should Care."  At best, she says, fathers are counselor, partner, and role model, complementing the mother, and inspiring the child.  This week:  A Salute to Dad, on "Perspectives.""

June 21, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" salutes Buffalo's TIm Russert, whose death last week, at 58, stunned the Nation.  Former Buffalo-area New York State Assemblyman VIncent Graber recalls his life-long friend.  Graber knew the Russert family when Tim was growing up, went to the same South Buffalo church, and and began Tim's political career by hiring him, at age 26, in 1976.  He discusses how Russert's television career and two best-selling books affected people who never knew him -- but felt they did.  Our other guests discuss issues and people in the news that Tim covered so expertly.  Barack Obama is trying to fracture the normally Republican evangelical vote.  John Green, Senior Fellow,  Pew Forum, and Director, the Ray C. Bliss Center, is among America's leading experts on politics and religion.  He discusses the Obama overture.  Paul Alexander is a former TIME reporter and author of the new book, Machiavelli's Shadow:  The Rise and Fall of Karl Rove.  He examines Rove's effect on the 2008 campaign.  This week, a Salute To Rim Russert on "Perspectives."

June 14, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" continues recommended reading for the upcoming summer.  Famed historian Arthur Herman discusses his dual biography of two pivotal 20th Century men:  "Gandhi and Churchill:  The Epic Rivalry That Destroyed An Empire and Forged Our Age."  Mark Bowden then details his book, "The Best Game Ever:  The Birth of the Modern NFL" -- the 1958 Colts-Giants sudden-death pro football title clash that changed American sports.  All this week, on "Perspectives."

June 7, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" suggests recommended reading as summer nears.  The director of a recent National Endowment on the Arts report on reading, Mark Bauerlein, discusses his new book "The Dumbest Generation:  How the Digital Age Stupefies Young Americans and Jeopardizes Our Future."  Jerry Zremski is Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News and former President of the National Press Club.  He examines the new book by President Bush's former Press Secretary, Scott McClellen:  "What Happened:  Inside the Bush White House and Washington's Culture of Deception."  Finally, Roxanne Orgill etches her new book, "Dream Lucky," about radio's Everest in 1930s America, recalling extended members of our family from Count Basie to Franklin Roosevelt.  Recommended reading, on this week's "Perspectives."

May 31, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores working people.  The embodiment of Buffalo, 1978-94 Mayor James Donald (Jimmy) Griffin, died this week at 78. Buffalo News political columnist and reporter Bob McCarthy looks in-depth at Griffin's extraordinary career -- how Buffalo's longest-serving Mayor changed his city, and why his presence was so huge.  Steven Greenhouse is the New York Times labor and workplace reporter.  He discusses his new book on worker exploitation, The Big Squeeze, a powerful expose of today's middle- and working-class plight.  Chuck Hinkel is the director of media relations for the Rochester Red Wings baseball team.  He explores the inner workings of a sports team's front office -- the superficial glamor and long hours behind the scene.  This week, working people, on "Perspectives."

May 24, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines issues that affect New York State locally and nationally.  Frank Donatelli was Director of Political Affairs in Ronald Reagan's White House and is now aide to Senator John McCain and Republican National Committee Deputy Director.  He discusses McCain's relationship to George W. Bush.  Republican activist and former Congressional candidate Bill Nojay explores the Republican Party's precarious New York State and national condition.  Jeff Durstewitz is a columnist and author of the book, "Younger Than That Now:  A Shared Passage From the Sixties."  He examines the perilous Rust Belt economy, including Western New York's.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

May 17, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" accents comparison.  Bergen Record reporter Ian O'Connor has written a new book, "Arnie and Jack:  Palmer, NIcklaus, and Golf's Greatest Rivalry," published by Houghton Mifflin.  He details the two men who, more than anyone, helped golf take flight.  Arthur Brooks is Professor of Business and Government Polices at Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.   He discusses his new book, published by Basic Books,  "Gross National Happiness," on why some Americans are happier than others.  Dennis Mullen is President of Greater Rochester Enterprise, a public-private economic development group based in Western New York.  He explores a proposed change in the Empire State Development Corporation which may hurt Upstate New York's economy v. Downstate's.  This week:  comparison, on "Perspectives."

May 10, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines two rites of spring.  Pete Weber is the former Buffalo Sabres, now Nashville Predators, play-by-play hockey announcer.  He etches the magic of playoff hockey, which starts in April and lasts till June.  Juan Williams is National Public Radio senior correspondent, author, and member of Fox News Channel's TV All-Stars.  He discusses the Commencement speech, which he will deliver this month in Western New York, and the state of the Nation and world that graduates will inherit.  This week, rwo rites of spring on "Commencement."

May 3, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines the columnist:  the artist, and art form.  Michael Barone is columnist for U.S. News & World Report and the author of many books, including his most recent, "Our First Revolution:  The Remarkable British Upheaval That Inspired America's Founding Fathers."  He examines what readers expect from a columnist.  James Pinkerton is a Newsday columnist and contributing editor for the American ConservativeMagazine.  He tells which columnists he reads, and why.  Donn Esmonde of the Buffalo News has been named New York State Associated Press large-circulation newspaper columnist two of the past three years.  He talks about from where a columnist's ideas come.  This week:  The Columnist, on "Perspectives."

April 26, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores:  After Pennsylvania, What?  That commonwealth's April 22 Presidential race has scrambled the Democratic race.  Dan Shea, Professor of Political Science at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, explains Hillary Clinton's victory over Barack Obama.  Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy discusses how Clinton's decisive victory affects politics in Western New York.  Finally, Jeffrey Koch, chairman of the Political Science Department at the State University of New York at Geneseo, explores where the riveting Presidential race goes from here.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

April 19, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" analyzes politics, then and now.  For 85 years American Presidents have used speechwriters to reach the public.  U.S. News & World Report writer Robert Schlesinger is the son of noted historian Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.  He discusses his new book, "White House Ghosts," the first in-depth look at Presidential speechwriters from Theodore Sorensen via Patrick Buchanan to Peggy Noonan.  John Zogby, the President and CEO of Zogby International, is America's leading pollster.  He examines the state of the 2008 Presidential election, including Barack Obama's recent gaffe about small-town America "cling[ing] to guns and religion."  On Tuesday, April 22, Zogby will address the Rochester, NY Rotary Club at 1 p.m.  Here he addresses that day's Pennsylvania Primary -- and what may follow.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

April 12, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines our kids, ourselves.  Doug Wead was Special Assistant to President George H.W.. Bush and the author of The New York Times best-selling book, "All The Presidents' Children."  He discusses why it is difficult for the children of American Presidents to turn out well.  Dr. Robin Sturm is Evaluation Coordinator of the Building Healthy Children program of Rochester, New York's, Mt. Hope Family Center. She explores a child's first three years:  crucial in determining whether kids turn out well, or not.  Finally, Dr. Joan Hoffman, Vice President, Education, of Western New York's Strong National Museum of Play, examines children's need for unstructured activity.  This week:  our children, ourselves, on "Perspectives."

April 5, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines The Generation Gap:  how generations compare and contrast.  Dr. Sarah Atkinson is Medical Director of the Finger Lakes Clinical Research in Rochester, New York.  She looks at generations from elementary school through college.  Dr. Robert Wuthnow is Professor of Sociology at Princeton University and author of the book, "After the Boomers."  How do 20- and 30-somethings compare with older generations, for better and worse?  This week:  The Generation Gap, on "Perspectives."

March 29, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" presents its annual salute to baseball on the new season's eve.  Gannett News Service columnist Scott Pitoniak discusses his new book, "Memories of Yankee Stadium," as America's most famous sports arena opens its final year.  Rochester Community Baseball Chairman of the Board and Chief Operating Officer Naomi Silver details how the Rochester Red Wings saved Batavia's Triple-A team, the Muckdogs.  Finally, 2008 marks the 100th anniversary of the Chicago Cubs last world title.  Cubs radio announcer Pat Hughes explores whether that streak will end -- and why America so loves the Cubs. This week:  Baseball on "Perspectives."

March 22, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores two of the most extraordinary weeks in New York State history:  "What Now?  New York After Spitzer."  Gannett News Service columnist and Capital Bureau Chief Jay Gallagher explores what former Governor Eliot Spitzer achieved, and successor David Paterson might.  Buffalo News reporter and columnist Bob McCarthy details the political fallout of Spitzer's resignation, Paterson's swearing-in, and the different climate in Albany.  Finally, William Johnson is former three-term Rochester, New York, Mayor.  He discusses the personal poignancy of Spitzer's disgrace, Paterson's tumultous debut, and historic importance of New York's first black and visually impaired Governor.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

March 15, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines the incredible rise and fall of New York Governor Eliot Spitzer. New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker has written more about Governor Spitzer than any journalist. He discusses how in 14 months Spitzer went from mid-70's polling approval to resignation and disgrace. Bruce DuMont is founder and president of the National Radio Hall of Fame, host of radio's syndicated "Beyond the Beltway," and long-time observer of Barack Obama. He explores the role in this Presidential campaign of Obama's rhetoric. Finally, Western New York children's author Linda Sue Park is the American-born daughter of Korean immigrants. Her new book, "Keeping Score," explores how baseball spurred her and her character's assimilation. All this on this week's "Perspectives."

March 8, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" takes listeners on a New York State and national politics long and winding road.  Alberta Phillips is a columnist and editorial page writer for the Austin, Texas, American-Statesman. She details the results of this week's Texas and Ohio Democratic Party primaries, won by Hillary Clinton.  How, and why, did Clinton reverse Barack Obama's momentum?  What is the state of the Presidential race?  Which issues are working for Clinton, and Obama?  The other guest is Jay Gallagher, Gannett News Service Capital Bureau head, who discusses Albany, New York's strange goings-on.  At a time when Governor Eliot Spitzer has plunged in popularity, how is his Democratic Party on the brink of capturing New York's entire State government?  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

March 1, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" discusses two things an old adage warns not to talk about:  politics and religion.  Its first guest is Dr. Martin Medhurst, Distinguished Professor of Rhetoric and Communication at Baylor University and author of many books and articles on religion.   He explores a pioneering study released this week by the Pew Research Forum on on how, where, and if Americans practice their faith.  The focus then turns to politics, especially the Tuesday, March 4 Democratic and Republican primaries in Texas and Ohio.  Walter Shapiro, salon/com's political correspondent and columnist, details who is likely to prevail, and why.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

February 23, 2008-

This week "Perspectives'' examines the 2008 Presidential campaign, indelibly rollicking on.  We begin a series of interviews with key officials from every campaign:  this week's guest, James Pinkerton, Senior Adviser to Republican Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee.  Pinkerton, former aide to former President Bush and now Newsday columnist, etches how Huckabee has emerged as the GOP surprise of 2008.  Then Jerry Zeremski, Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News, explores the state of each party's race after the recent Wisconsin primary and on the eve of crucial March 4 primaries in Texas and Ohio.  This week: a nonpareil and already historic Presidential race, on "Perspectives."

February 16, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores two isues that deserve more notice than they receive.  First, Dr. Jeane Twenge, the author of a book, "Generation Me," and a new study on self-esteem, examines college students: does the emphasis on self-esteem help or hurt them?  Then, Nile Gardiner, Director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation, details the special relationship between America and Great Britain.  What's the status?  What's at stake?  This week:  Two vital issues we should know more about, on "Perspectives.

February 9, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores public-private partnerships:  What they are; how they work; what kind succeed, and don't.  Kent Gardner is President and Chief Economist for Western New York's Center for Governmental Research.  He discusses Upstate cities from Buffalo to Albany: in particular, Buffalo's proposed downtown waterfront development. Bill Nojay is an activist and past head of the Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority.  He focuses on Rochester, New York's third-largest city, where big-ticket projects once deemed doable now seem as fleeting as the dew.  This week:  public-private partnerships, on "Perspectives."

February 2, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" looks at politics:  backward, and ahead.  Tom DeFrank is Washington Bureau Chief of "The New York Daily News" and author of the new best-selling book, "Write It When I'm Gone:  Remarkable Off the Record Conversations With Gerald R. Ford."  DeFrank discusses Ford's view of Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and George W. Bush, among others.  Tom Oliphant is "The Boston Globe" long-time columnist and author of the new best-selling book, "Praying For Gil Hodges."  He will dissect the Feb. 5 Super Tuesday, a slew of more than 20 primaries in each major party. Olpihant will pay special attention to front-runners Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, John McCain, and Mitt Romney.  This week:  Politics, on "Perspectives."

January 26, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines The Generation Gap:  how generations compare and contrast.  Dr. Sarah Atkinson is Medical Director of the Finger Lakes Clinical Research in Rochester, New York.  She looks at generations from elementary school through college.   Dr. Robert Wuthnow is Professor of Sociology at Princeton University and author of the new book, "After the Boomers."  How do 20- and 30-somethings compare with older generations, for better and worse?  This week:  The Generation Gap, on "Perspectives."

January 19, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" examines value. Collin Levy, Senior Editorial Writer of The Wall Street Journal, details the value of using correct English.  Christopher Dahl, President of the State University of New York at Geneseo, examines a new Kiplinger's Financial Report on the value of a good education -- a report naming Geneseo No. 1 among all American four-year public colleges in "value" for out-of-state students.  Buffalo radio host and Canisius College educator Kevin Hardwick discusses what's become perhaps the Presidential campaign's leading issue:  The economy -- the value of a job.   All on this week's "Perspectives."

January 12, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" explores issues of controversy. Jeff Nussbaum is Time.com's "Rhetoric Watch" columnist, former Speechwriter to Al Gore, and member, West Wing Writers Group.  He explores whether Barak Obama's rhetoric can win his party's Presidential nomination.  Mark W. Smith, author of the new book, "The Official Handbookof the Vast Right-Wing Conspiracy," examines if media coverage of the 2008 Presidential campaign has been fair.  Finally, Rob Rains, KMOX Radio St. Louis talk host and author of 24 books, discusses how baseball's steroids crisis may affect voting for the Hall of Fame.  This week:  Controversy, on "Perspectives."

January 5, 2008-

This week "Perspectives" devotes the entire hour to the story of a man already well-known to a National Public Radio listener. Juan Williams is NPR senior correspondent: also, political analyst for TV's Fox News Channel, leading documentarian, and author of many books, including "Thurgood Marshall: American Revolutionary," "The Prize: America's Civil Rights Years, 1954-65," "This Far By Faith" and, most recently, "Enough." Born in Panama, arriving in America at three, Williams became a Washington Post
editorial writer, columnist, and White House reporter; writer for The New Republic,NEwsweek, and Ebony,among others; and commentator on such TV shows as "Crossfire," "Nightline," and "WashingtonWeek In Review." Williams discusses this -- and his relationship with NPR. This week: The life of one of America's leading journalists on "Perspectives."

December 29, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" airs its annual New Year's show:  a look back, and ahead.  Buffalo News columnist Bob McCarthy explores Western New York politically and economically, including the upcoming 2008 Congressional election. New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker broke 2007's "Troopergate" and illegal aliens' drivers license stories.  He etches the state of state government, which, Dicker says, isn't good.  Finally, Jerry Zremski, Washington Bureau Chief of the Buffalo News, details the Presidential election.  He reports from Iowa, site of the first (January 3) caucus, where the Republican and Democratic races are extremely close.  This week:  Happy New Year! on "Perspectives."

December 22, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines behavior.  Mental health advocate Jeffrey Lewis discusses the condition and challenges of the field.  Stephen Lurie, Professor of Family Medicine, University of Rochester, details Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), especially pronounced at this time of year.  Finally, author and National Journal writer Burt Solomon compares the behavior of today's candidates for President, asking, "Will Americans Elect a President They Don't Like?"  Behavior:  this week on "Perspectives."

December 15, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines a man -- and his philosophy.  The man:  legendary Indian leader Mohandis K. (Mahatma) Gandhi.  The philosophy:  non-violence, as timeless now as during Gandhi's 1869-1948 life.  Our guest for the program's entire hour is the fifth grandson of the pioneer and statesman:  Arun Gandhi, founder of the Mohandis K. Gandhi Institute for Non-Violence, recently established in Rochester, New York.  Mr. Gandhi will discuss his background; his late grandfather's legacy; how Arun and his late wife created the Institute in 1991; and why he decided to place it in Western New York.  All this and more:  a very special "Perspectives."

December 8, 2007-

This Week "Perspectives" examines "To Be Continued" -- examining issues so important they deserve more than one program.  Recently, "Perspectives" guest Natonal Endowment for the Arts Chairman Dana Goia addressed a new study on declining reading ability and desire.  This week, that study is further examined by Dr. Ernest Balajthy, Professor of Education and Program Director, Reading and Literacy, at the State University of New York at Geneseo.  Another issue so vital it needs to be continued is the 2008 Presidential campaign.  Dr.Fred Siegel is Professor of History at the Cooper Union of the Sciences and Arts in New York City -- and author of "Prince Of The City:  Rudolph Giuliani, New York, And The Genius of American Life."  He discusses what such past guests as national pollster John Zogby have:  Giuliani and other Republican candidates as the first caucuses and primaries approach.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

December 1, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores turning points.  Dana Gioa, Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, describes a stunning new study, "To Read Or Not to Read,:" which details troubling facts about childhood reading.  America's leading pollster, John Zogby, president of Zogby International, explores what each major party can expect from the 2008 Presidential campaign. Finally, Jay Gallagher, Capital Bureau Chief of Gannett News Service, examines a key turning point for New York Governor Elliot Spitzer:  How does he regain public trust?  All this on this week's"Perspectives."

November 24, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at The Little Guy.  The President and Chief Executive Officer of the Business Council of New York State, Kenneth Adams, etches the state of the Empire State's small businessman.  Carla Main, the author of a new book, "Bulldozed:  Kelo, Eminent Domain, And the American Lust For Land," explores how The Little Guy is losing his and her private property across America.  Finally, nationally-known Democratic Party consultant Hank Scheinkopf discusses populism versus big business and government.  This week, The LIttle Guy, on "Perspectives."

November 17, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores our teams, ourselves:  a look at Upstate New York's two most popular professional sports teams.  Gannett News Service columnist Scott Pitoniak discusses his new book, "The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly:  Heart-Pounding, Jaw-Dropping, and Gut-Wrenching Moments in Buffalo Bills HIstory."  Then, Boston Red Sox radio Voice Joe Castiglione, a 1960s Colgate University graduate, details Upstate's other favorite team:  the Red Sox' arch-rival New York Yankees, who make as much news off-season as during the season.  From Joe Torre through Jack Kemp via Alex Rodriguez to Ralph Wilson, a look at the two pro teams that most Upstate New Yorkers call their own.  This week on "Perspectives."

November 10, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores both sides of the ongoing Presidential campaign.  Maggie Gallagher, the award-winning New York Post columnist, discusses the multi-candidate Republican field.  Walter Shapiro is former Speechwriter to President Carter, former columnist for USA Today, and now Washington Bureau Chief of the liberal web site salon.com.  He details the Democrats:  Can anyone catch Hillary Clinton? This week two experts examine each major party's Presidential contest on "Perspectives."

November 3, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at behavior, for better and worse.  Christina Hoff Sommers, author and resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, etches the behavior of those she terms "academic inquisitors." Stephen Melanga, senior editor at the Manhattan Institute's City Journal, compares the behavior of the religious right and left toward state.  Mark Yost is author of the book, Tailgating, Sacks, and Salary Caps:  How the NFL Became the Most Successful League in the World . He discusses loutish fan behavior at pro football games, including the Buffalo Bills'.  This week: behavior, on "Perspectives."

October 27, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines the columnist:  the artist, and art form. Michael Barone is columnist for U.S. News & World Report and the author of many books, including his most recent, "Our First Revolution:  The Remarkable British Upheaval That Inspired America's Founding Fathers."  He examines what readers expect from a columnist.  James Pinkerton is a Newsday columnist and contributing editor for the American Conservative Magazine.  He tells which columnists he reads, and why.  Donn Esmonde of the Buffalo News has been named New York State Associated Press large-circulation newspaper columnist two of the past three years.  He talks about from where a columnist's ideas come.  This week:  The Columnist, on "Perspectives."

October 20, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" devotes the entire hour to the story of a man already well-known to a National Public Radio listener.  Juan Williams is NPR senior correspondent:  also, political analyst for TV's Fox News Channel, leading documentarian, and author of many books, including "Thurgood Marshall:  American Revolutionary,"  "The Prize:  America's Civil Rights Years, 1954-65," "This Far By Faith" and, most recently, "Enough." Born in Panama, arriving in America at three, Williams became a Washington Post editorial writer, columnist, and White House reporter; writer for The New Republic, Newsweek, and Ebony, among others; and commentator on such TV shows as "Crossfire," "Nightline," and "Washington Week In Review."  Williams discusses this -- and his relationship with NPR.  This week:  The life of one of America's leading journalists on "Perspectives."

October 13, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores the varied ways in which human beings cope.  Dr. Suzanne Sachnowitz, author of "Til Death: A Story of Survival and Renewal," discusses coping with ultimate tragedy.  Rebecca Hagelin, author of the book "Home Invasion:  Protecting Your Family In A Culture Gone Stark-Raving Mad," etches an outside world grown coarser each week.  Dr. Christiana Hoff Sommers' newest book is "One Nation Under Therapy."  She explores America's increasing emphasis on therapy.  Does it deal with problems, or help avoid them?  This week, coping, on "Perspectives.

October 6, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at our culture, ourselves.  What is culture?  What is its state today?  David Callahan has written for The New York Times and Washington Post, among others, and authored seven books.  He discusses his newest book, "The Moral Center:  How Progressives Can Unite America Around Our Shared Values," moving beyond blue and red states toward consensus.  Richard Dollinger is a former New York State Senator, now Brighton, New York, Town Judge.  He will detail what he's learned about why culture works, or doesn't.  Today's culture:  Join us on this week's "Perspectives.

September 27, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores the latest news in politics.  David Kuhn of Politico.com discusses his new book, "The Neglected Voter:  White Men and the Democratic Dilemma," about America's largest dependable Republican voting bloc. Fred Siegel is Professor at the Cooper Union in New York and author of many books, including "Prince Of the City."  He explores former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani's Presidential campaign.  Robert McClure is Professor of Political Science and Public Affairs at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University.  He details the recent decision by Congressman Jim Walsh of the Syracuse, New York, area to break with President Bush and oppose the Iraq war.  All this on this week's"Perspectives."

September 20, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" addresses two high-profile aspects of education. Jody Siegel is Executive Director of Western New York's Monroe County School Boards Association.  She examines the growing problem of verbal, physical, and relational bullying.  John McWhorter is an author, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, and contributor to National Public Radio's "All Things Considered."  He looks at the controversial trend of black students declining to "act white."  Join us for a look at education on this week's"Perspectives."

September 15, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at heroes. The show's first guest is Buffalo native and National Public Radio "All Things Considered" commentator Jake Halpern. His book, "Fame Junkies: The Hidden Truth Behind America's Favorite Addiction," examines how and why people become obsessed with celebrity. Of special interest is a study of teenagers in three Rochester-area schools. Then, former New York State Senator-turned-Brighton Town Court Judge Richard Dollinger details what hero means today -- and how it differs from his Baby Boomer youth. What are heroes? From where do they come? This -- and more -- on this week's "Perspectives."

September 8, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores an American Original -- Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain.  It would be hard to find a more famous writer -- or one more entwined with Upstate New York. Twain was born in 1835, and buried in Elmira, New York, in 1910.  Barbara Snedecor, Director of the Center for Mark Twain Studies in Elmira, etches the writer's ties to the region.  Then scholar and author Michael Kiskis, Resident Mark Twain Scholar at Elmira College, examines the man and his work.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

September 1, 2007-

Labor Day is the traditional start of each year's political campaign.  This week "Perspectives" looks at the politics of this fall -- and 2008.  Tom DeFrank, Washington editor of the New York Daily News, explores the continuing season of George W. Bush's discontent: the resignation of his Attorney General; second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina; effect of illegal immigration; and Iraq. Fred Dicker, columnist and state editor of the New York Post, recently broke the tale of Governor Eliot Spitzer and "Troopergate."  He details that story, Republican Roger Stone's counter-scandal, and how dysfunctional government in Albany is getting even worse. Bob McCarthy is the Buffalo News' widely admired columnist.  He details the key Western New York race of fall 2007 -- Erie County Executive -- and each major party's prospects for 2008.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

August 25, 2007-

In 1946, the movie "It's A Wonderful Life" was released set in fictional Bedford Falls -- based, some say, on Upstate New York's Seneca Falls.  This week "Perspectives" explores a wonderful life based in Western New York.  Recently William Johnson turned 65: former head of Rochester, New York's Urban League; three-term Mayor of the Flower City; now a distinguished professor of public policy and leading urban expert.  The program will examine Johnson's views on America, New York State, and this region -- above all, his advice on how life can begin at 65.  Growing older without aging: Bill Johnson, on this week's "Perspectives."

August 18, 2007-

A favorite Baby Boomer song began "Don't know much about history."  This week's "Perspectives" features two experts who know a great deal about arguably America's two most historic team sports.  Rob Raines, author, former Gannett News reporter, now KMOX Radio St. Louis talk show host, has written 24 books on baseball.  He discusses that game's long and incomparable history from the 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings to Barry Bonds and Derek Jeter. Steve Hatchel is President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Football Foundation, located in Irving, Texas.  He details the glorious history of college football from Pop Warner to Joe Paterno, the Four Horsemen to 24/7 TV coverage.  Baseball's season is approaching its climax.  College football's is about to begin.  Explore each on this week's "Perspectives.

August 11, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines a man -- and his philosophy.  The man:  Legendary Indian leader Mohandis K. (Mahatma) Gandhi.  The philosophy:  non-violence, as timeless now as during Gandhi's 1869-1948 life.  Our guest for the program's entire hour is the fifth grandson of the pioneer and statesman:  Arun Gandhi, founder of the Mohandis K. Gandhi Institute for Non-violence, recently established in Rochester, New York.  Mr. Gandhi will discuss his background; his late grandfather's  legacy; how Arun and his late wife created the Institute in 1991; and why he decided to place it at the University of Rochester.  All this and more:  a very special "Perspectives."

August 4 , 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores some of the most influential people in politics:  the celebrity political consultant.  Some are as familiar as your Uncle Fred.  Others, you may not know yet -- but likely will.  Dennis Johnson, author and Professor of Political Management, George Washington University, details the rise of the combination strategist, writer, publicist, media advisor, and showman.  Then Wayne Slater, Austin Bureau Chief of the Dallas Morning News and author of the book, "Bush's Brain," examines the consultant's prototype, the controversial Karl Rove.  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

July 28, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at the politics of New York State with two leading authorities.  A 1940s radio show was titled "The Bickersons."  Jay Gallagher, Gannett News Albany Bureau Chief, explores today's version of that animus:  New York Governor Eliot Spitzer and Senate Majority leader Joseph Bruno.  Gerald Benjamin is Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the State University of New York at New Paltz.  He looks at demographics being destiny:  do they explain the Republican Party's statewide fall from near-parity to near-collapse?  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

July 21, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores three individuals who have changed the Empire State.  Dr. Constantin Frank revolutionized New York's wine industry.  His grandson, Frederick Frank, President, Vinifera Wine Cellars of Hammondsport, New York, explains how.  Frederick Law Olmstead forged New York State's cathedral of the outdoors in, among other sites, Rochester, Buffalo, and New York City.  Katie Comeau, Preservation Advisor, the Landmark Society of Western New York, examines Olmstead's legacy. Robert Moses showed, to paraphrase Churchill, how we shape our buildings -- and thereafter, they shape us. Hilary Ballon, editor and author of the book, "Robert Moses and the Modern City: The Transformation of New York," details how Moses shaped the Empire State and especially New York City between 1930 and 1965. All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

July 14, 2007-

 

July 7, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" continues its recurrent series on United States Senators from the Empire State. Joseph Mercurio, president, National Political Services, Inc., is among America's leading political consultants.  He addresses the career of liberal Republican Jacob Javits, U.S. Senator 1957-81. George Marlin is former New York City Conserative Party Mayoral nominee; former executive director of the New York and New Jersey Port Authority;and author and leading conservative activist.  He recalls James Buckley, U.S. Senator 1971-77, especially Buckley's historic 1970 upset victory as Conservative Party candidate which augured Richard Nixon's landslide 1972 Presidential victory.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

June 30, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" begins a recurrent series on United States Senators from New York State.  This week looks at two men different in background and approach. Kenneth Keating grew up in the small town of Lima, New York, became a lawyer, joined the military, and returned to become a Rochester-area Congressman and 1959-65 United States Senator.  Upstate New York conservative activist Bill Nojay, who once ran for Keating's old Congressional seat, recalls Keating's career.  Robert F. Kennedy was raised in a rich and politically influential family, went to Harvard, became a lawyer, managed his brother's successful 1960 Presidential campaign, and became U.S. Attorney General.  In 1964, after the death of his brother, Kennedy took Keating's seat in a bitter campaign, serving in the U.S. Senate until his 1968 death.  His career is recalled by Jeff Shesol, former Speechwriter to former President Clinton, member of the West Wing Writers Group, and author of the book, "Mutual Contempt," about Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

June 23, 2007-

In this, the first week of summer, "Perspectives" examines rewarding books for summer reading. Michael Fletcher is The Washington Post's White House correspondent and award-winning reporter.  He discusses his new book, "Supreme Discomfort:  The Divided Soul of Clarence Thomas."  Dennis D'Agistino, a noted writer and publicist, explores his new book on perhaps America's all-time most nostalgic team:  "Though a Blue Lens: Barney Stein's Photography of the 1937-57 Brooklyn Dodgers." Finally, Kenneth Gross is among the Nation's leading experts on William Shakespeare.  He details his book on a complex and timeless character, "Shylock is Shakespeare."  All on this week's "Perspectives."

June 16, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at children -- what a "New York Times" story has called "Kids Gone Wild."  Judith Smetana, Professor, Clinical and Social Psychology, the University of Rochester, explores how to raise a morally developed child. Nationally known child psychiatrist Alvin Rosenfeld discusses the overscheduled child -- and how it reflects the trap of hyperparenting. Finally, Harvard University child psychologist Dan Kindlon examines raising children of character in an indulgent age. Are more children rude, disruptive, and spoiled than even a decade ago? If so, why? How can the trend be reversed? Three experts discuss our kids.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

June 9, 2007-

Calvin Coolidge said famously, "The business of America is business." By contrast, Richard Nixon observed, "There is nothing smaller than a big businessman." This week "Perspectives" explores the two sides of business' coin.  Dennis Mullen, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Rochester Enterprise, suggests how business can revive a community -- the theme of a June 12 "Eyes on the Future Regional Economic Summit" in Rochester, New York.  Mark Krikorian, Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies in Washington, D.C., then details big business' role in backing what many opponents call amnesty for illegal aliens in the U.S. Senate Comprehensive Immigration legislation.  All this -- and more -- on this week's"Perspectives."

June 2, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines the Democratic Party's already fascinating Presidential odyssey.  Jerry Zremski is the Buffalo News Washington Bureau Chief and President of the National Press Club.  He looks at the leading and not-so-leading Democratic candidates.  John Zogby, arguably America's pre-eminent pollster, is the founder, President, and CEO of Zogby International, Inc.  He uses polling data to compare the candidates, including whether New York U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton leads the field.   All this -- and more -- on this week's "Perspectives."

May 26, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores the fascinating state of the Republican Presidential sweepstakes. Fred Siegel is  Professor of History at the Cooper Union of Science and Art in New York City and author of many books, most recently "The Prince Of The City," about former Mayor Rudy Giuliani.  He details Giulaini's campaign for President.  Patrick Butler is Vice-President, The Washington Post Company, and former Speechwriter to former President Gerald Ford.  He examines the shadow President Bush casts over the GOP candidates -- and analyzes the party's Missing Man:  actor and former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson, the unannounced but prospective contender who has stirred a firestorm of Internet, talk show, and inside the Beltway conjecture.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

May 19, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at heroes.  The show's first guest is Buffalo native and National Public Radio "All Things Considered" commentator Jake Halpern.  His new book, "Fame Junkies: The Hidden Truth Behind America's Favorite Addiction," examines how and why people become obsessed with celebrity.  Of special interest is a study of teenagers in three Rochester-area schools.  Then, former New York State Senator-turned Brighton Town Court Judge Richard Dollinger details what hero means today -- and how it differs from his Baby Boomer youth.  What are heroes?  From where do they come?  This -- and more -- on this week's Perspectives."

May 12 , 2007-

This Week "Perspectives" salutes Mother's Day. Peter Post, a director of the Emily Post Institute and author of the book, "Essential Manners for Couples," suggests what to get Mom, especially flowers, still the gift of choice.)  Kerry Funk, Senior Project Director, Pew Research Center, details a new poll showing that we still like to call Mom on Mother's Day -- even as we have begun to call her more on other days.  Carmen Cunningham, Director, Targeting Services and Equal Employment Programs of the New York Office for the Aging, discusses a growing phenomenon:  grandparents, especially grandmothers, raising grandchildren.  Mother's Day, she notes, is for grandmothers, too.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

May 5 , 2007-

This week "Perspectives" addresses two high-profile aspects of education.  Jody Siegel is Executive Director of Western New York's Monroe County School Boards Association.  She examines the growing problem of verbal, physical, and relational bullying.  John McWhorter is an author, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, and contributor to National Public Radio's "All Things Considered."  He looks at the controversial trend of black students declining to "act white." Join us for a look at education on week's "Perspective.

April 27, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines The Underdog.  Pat Hughes is WGN Chicago Radio's Voice of America's quintessence of the underdog:  baseball's lovable, losing Cubs.  Why are the Cubs so beloved?  If they ever won a World Series, would their popularity decrease?  Next, America's leading President-watcher looks at underdog Presidential candidates in the 2008 Campaign.  Tom DeFrank is Washington Bureau Chief of the New York Daily News.  He looks at both parties' underdogs:  Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, Dennis Kucinich, Sam Brownback, perhaps even Fred Thompson.  Which, if any, have a real chance to become President?  All this, and more, on this week's "Perspectives."

April 21, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at three issues that were a long time coming -- and may be a long time gone.  Chriss Winston is former White House speechwriting head and now fellow at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government Institute of Politics. She discusses her new book, "How To Raise an American," an issue existing since 1776. Mark Krekorian is Executive Director of Washington's Center for Immigration Studies.  He explores the current battle over President Bush's attempt to enact "comprehensive immigration reform," and whether Bush supports illegal alien amnesty.  Bob McCarthy is a popular Buffalo News columnist.  He details Buffalo's plan to reverse downtown malaise, remaking its inner harbor with development featuring the national Bass Pro Shops, an Erie Canal Museum, and public plaza, marketplace, and waterside promenade. What's involved?  Will it work?  This week:  three key long-term issues on "Perspectives."

April 14, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" looks at the Governorship of the Empire State.  "New York's chief executive strides a national stage," said a writer, "crowded with precedent and suplerative."  This show etches three Governors who changed New York State.  Professor Bernard Bellush of the City University of New York examines Franklin D. Roosevelt, New York's 1929-33 Governor   Nationally recognized Presidential scholar Richard Norton Smith recalls Thomas E. Dewey, who led the State from 1943-55.  Finally, Robert Douglas, counsel to Nelson A. Rockefeller, details Rockefeller's leadership from 1959-74.  All this -- and more -- on this week's "Perspectives.

April 7, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines arguably the two brightest people in America's two major political parties.  First, nationally known Democratic consultant Hank Scheinkopf discusses his longtime friend, former President Bill Clinton.  What is Clinton's legacy?  How did he change American politics?   How might Clinton affect the 2008 Presidential strategy of his wife?  Next, we talk with Wayne Slater, Austin Bureau Chief of the "Dallas Morning News" and co-author of the famed book, "Bush's Brain."  Slater will etch White House political adviser Karl Rove.  Is Rove as bright as his reputation suggests?  If so, why has George W. Bush's second term imploded?  What happened to Rove's dream of a "permanent Republican majority"?  This week, does political intelligence equal political success?  All on "Perspectives.

March 30, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" salutes baseball as a new season dawns.  Legendary Hall of Fame broadcaster Ernie Harwell, 89 going on 19, reflects on his seven decades of play-by-play.  In particular, he discusses his new book, "Ernie Harwell's Scrapbook," and memories from Jackie Robinson via Willie Mays to Barry Bonds. Author John Heidenry etches his new book on one of baseball's most famous teams, the 1934 Cardinals: "The Gas House Gang" -- How Dizzy Dean, Leo Durocher, Branch Rickey, Pepper Martin, and Their Colorful, Come From Behind Ballclub Won the World Series -- and America's Heart -- During The Great Depression." Finally, Matthew Popaduick, former Hall of Fame intern, card collector, and baseball speaker at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library, on Generation X's and Y's attitude toward the National Game.  All this week on "Perspectives."

March 24, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" discusses fathers, mothers, daughters, and sons -- in short, family.  Dr. Christina Hoff Sommers, Resident Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research in Washington, examines why too many boys are academically behaving and socially acting badly. Then, Dr. Meg Meeker, a pediatric specialist in adolescent health, explores her new book, "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets every Father Should Know."  Why is the father-daughter relationship so precious?  How can "daddy's girl" become a person of whom she and her father will be proud?  This week, crucial listening for every member of the family -- on "Perspectives."

March 17, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines three books of grace and relevance.  Hugh Hewitt hosts a nationally syndicated radio show; is executive editor of Townhall.com; and has authored nine books, his newest "A Mormon In The White House?" He will discuss the Presidential campaign of Republican contender Mitt Romney.  Richard Sandomir is The New York Times sports television columnist and co-editor with Mark Reiter of "The Enlightened Bracketologist:  The Final Four of Everything."  He details how the top 32 format popularized by college basketball's "March Madness" can judge categories from film and dogs to sidekicks, candy bars, and Presidential speeches.  Joanna Scott is among Upstate New York's finest authors.  She etches how her new collection of short fiction titled "Everybody Loves Somebody" shows love lost and love regained.  This week:  a reader's paradise on "Perspectives."

March 10, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" addresses two issues we should focus on more, but don't; in America, the craze of self-esteem; abroad, the "special relationship" between the United States and Great Britain.  Our first guest, Dr. Jeane Twenge, Psychologist at San Diego State University, is the author of the book "Generation Me" -- a study of how narcissistic many young Americans have become.  In particular, she addresses a new comprehensive national survey on self-esteem gone wild.  The second guest is Nile Gardiner, Director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation in Washington.  He examines the historic relationship between America and the United Kingdom; threats to it in each country and beyond; and how figures like Churchill, FDR, Reagan, Kennedy, and Thatcher forged Anglo-American unity.  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

March 3, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines policy:  local, state, and national. Former three-term Rochester, New York, Mayor Bill Johnson is now Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at the Rochester Institute of Technology. He examines education and urban policy.  Next, Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy explores the state of reform policy under New York's new Governor, Eliot Spitzer.  Finally, McCarthy's colleague, News Washington Bureau Chief Jerry Zremski, explores how Iraqi policy has become American politics' overwhelming 800-pound gorilla.  A look at policy on every U.S. level:  All this week on "Perspectives."

February 24, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" examines two issues, each of which has contrasting sides.  Michael Barone is senior writer at U.S. News and World Report, TV's Fox News Channel regular, and author of the "Biannual Almanac of American Politics."  He will discuss his book, "The New Americans," comparing the 20th Century melting pot and today's hyphenated American. Dave Palmer is a distinguished historian, frequent The History Channel contributor, former West Point superintendant, and author of the book, "George Washington and Benedict Arnold:  A Tale of Two Patriots." Palmer will compare the father of our country and man without a country.  This week, two stories of both sides now on "Perspectives."

February 17, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" continues its series on people who have helped make New York State great.  Robert F. Kennedy was a crime buster, John F. Kennedy's confidant and Attorney General, New York U.S. Senator, and would-be President in 1968. His life is examined by Jeff Shesol:  former Speechwriter to former President Clinton; member, West Wing Writers; and author of the book, "Mutual Contempt," about the animus between Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson.  Shirley Chisholm was a New York City educator, State Legislator, and first black woman to be elected to the U.S. Congress -- and to run for President.  Her successor in Congress, Edolphus Towns, 10th District, Brooklyn, recalls Chisholm's life and legacy.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

February 10, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" begins a recurrent series on great New Yorkers:  people who have helped make New York the Empire State.  One of this week's guests is Fred Siegel, Professor of History at Cooper Union and author of many books, including a biography of Rudolph Giuliani, "The Prince of the City."  He will explore the fascinating life and times of Fiorello La Guardia, New York City's 1933-45 Mayor, and etch similarities and differences v. Giuliani, a former Mayor who may run for President. Another guest, Elder James Johnston of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, will detail the life and legacy of Joseph Smith, who founded Mormonism in the 1820s at Upstate New York's Hill Cumorah.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

February 3, 2007-

Horace Greeley said, "Go west, young man, go west."  This week's "Perspectives" goes south to politics' most influential region.  Noted historian William Leuchtenburg, Professor Emeritus of the University of North Carolina, discusses his new book, "The White House Looks South:  Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Lyndon Johnson" -- each with "one foot above the Mason-Dixon Line, one below."  Martin Medhurst, Professor of Communications at Baylor University, details his new book, "The Rhetorical Presidency of George Bush" -- and how Bush 41 and 43 rhetorically compare.  Finally, author Mickey Herksowitz recalls the man who might have been the greatest Southerner not to become President:  John B. Connally, profiled in his "In History's Shadow."  This week:  Even a Northerner must understand the region with more than half the electoral notes needed to elect a President.  "The South and Presidents," on "Perspectives." 

January 27, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores three major sides of print journalism.  Lee Capulla, Dean of the Jandoli School of Journalism and Mass Communication at St. Bonaventure University, discusses the future of newspapers. Melissa Chesshe, Assocociate Professor of the Magazine Department at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, examines the growing popularity of niche magazines.  Rick Wolff, Vice President, Warner Books, and Sports Illustrated columnist, looks at the state of book reading and publishing. Are fewer people reading? If so, why? All this and more on this week's "Perspectives." 

January 20, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" explores three individuals who have changed the Empire State. Dr. Constantin Frank revolutionized New York's wine industry. His grandson, Frederick Frank, President, Vinifera Wine Cellars of Hammondsport, New York, explains how.  Frederick Law Olmsted forged New York State's cathedral of the outdoors in, among other sites, Rochester, Buffalo, and New York City.  Katie Comeau, Preservation Advisor, the Landmark Society of Western New York, examines Olmsted's legacy. Robert Moses showed, as Churchilll said, how we shape our buildings -- thereafter, they shape us. Hilary Ballon, editor and author of a new book, "Robert Moses and the Modern City:  The transofmration of New York," details how Moses shaped the Empire State and especially New York City between 1930 and 1965.  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

January 13, 2007-

This week "Perspectives" recalls the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford, who died recently at 93.  Thomas DeFrank is America's premier President-watcher as Newsweek White House correspondent and now Washington bureau chief of the New York Daily News.  He has covered seven Presidents, including Ford in 1974-77.  Ford called him his favorite journalist.  DeFrank will recall his subject and his friend.  "Perspectives"'s other guest is Patrick Butler, Vice President, The Washington Post Company, and a 1975-77 Ford speechwriter.  He will detail Ford's rhetoric and record.  This week, two colleagues of Gerald Ford recall our 38th President on "Perspectives."

January 6, 2007-

This week "Pespectives'" explores out with the old, in with the new, as one New York State Governor yields to another.  George Pataki served three terms in Alabany.  Gerald Benjamin, Dean of the College at SUNY at New Paltz and author of 14 books, including "Rockefeller of New York,"examines Pataki's controversial legacy.  Pataki was succeded this week by former State Attorney General Elliott Spitzer, who won a smashing November victory to become Governor.  Jay Gallagher, Upstate New York Bureau chief and columnist, Gannett News Services, examines what Spitzer is likely to attempt -- and the likelihood of his success.  This week, New York's Changing of the Guard, on "Perspectives."

December 30, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" concludes a two-part look at America's two leading political parties.  This week:  the Democrats.  Historian Shawn Savage, the author of the book, "JFK, LBJ, and the Democratic Party," examines the world's oldest continuous political party from Thomas Jefferson to Bill Clinton and beyond.  Then noted national Democratic consultant Hank Shienkolf suggests what the Democrats must do, and avvoid, to make their new Congressional majority permanent.  This week:  a look at the Democratic Party, on "Perspectives."

December 23, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" begins a two-part look at America's two great political parties.  This week, the Republicans.  Historian Charles Calhoun is author of the definitive book on the GOP, "Conceiving a New Republic:  The Republican Party and the Southern Question, 1869-1900."  He etches the Republican Party from Abraham Lincoln through George W. Bush.  Matt Rees is author of the widely praised book "From the Deck to the Sea:  Blacks and the Republican Party."  He examines the irony of why a party which freed the slaves commands so little black support today.  This week:  The Republicans, on "Perspectives."

December 16, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" recalls fifty-year anniversaries:  three events from a half-century ago.  Gannett News Service columnist Jim Mandelaro details how Rochester, New York, saved its Triple-A minor-league baseball team.  Historian Craig Allen etches the last Presidential election -- 1956's Dwight Eisenhower-Adlai Stevenson campaign -- in which television played a major, but not yet decisive, role.  Finally, Ric Wyman, Executive Director of Jamestown, New York's, Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center, on how America mourned when "I Love Lucy" ended its historic weekly run.  This week, special anniversaries, on "Perspectives."

December 9, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" examines the American art of storytelling.  Tonya Loran, a Native American storyteller at the Ganondagan Indian historic site in Canandaigua, New York, etches tales passed from one age and tribe to another.  America's longest-running television sportscaster, Hall of Famer Bob Wolff, details how anecdote is crucial to sports play-by-play.  Finally, Kevin Kling, playwright, performer, and regular commentator and contributor to National Public Radio's "All Things Considered," describes what makes narrative and the narrator thrive.  This week:  the timeless craft of storytelling on "Perspectives."

December 2, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" explores politics'  leading "L" word:  legacy.  With two years left in office, President George W. Bush has already begun to consider how history will treat him.  This week three Presidential scholars discuss what the President they specialize in would say about Bush.  Frank Shuffleton, head of the University of Rochester's English Department, is among America's leading scholars on Thomas Jefferson.  He etches how our third President would regard today's.  William Leuchtenburg, Distinguished Professor of History at the University of North Carolina, examines what Franklin Roosevelt would say about Bush at home and abroad.  Finally, David Greenberg, Associate Professor of History and Media Studies at Rutgers University and author of the book "Nixon's Shadow," muses how Richard Nixon would deem Bush.  This week, George W. Bush's legacy, as perceived by experts on three U.S. Presidents.  All on "Perspectives."

November 25, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" salutes three great American generals who helped to win World War II. Brown University historian Samuel Brenner recalls the beloved Dwight Eisenhower, who oversaw the D-Day 1944 Allied invasion, Operation Overlord, of Hitler's Europe.  Dr. Malcolm (Kip) Muir, Professor of Miltary History, Virginia Military Institute, details "Blood and Guts" -- George Patton, the incomparable leader of the U.S. Third Army. Dr. Michael Schaller, Professof of History, University of Arizona, explores the equally theatric Douglas MacArthur, who said of the Phillipines, "I shall return" -- and did.  Three legendary military figures -- each helping to win perhaps America's most legendary war.  This week -- on "Perspectives."

November 18, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" etches three pivotal examples of what character is, and means.  Historian Harry Turtledove details Abraham Lincoln's agony and ecstasy as he prepared the Emancipation Proclamation. Edward Renahan, Chief Executive Officer of the Theodore Roosevelt Association, evokes TR's valiant third-party attempt in 1912 to rewin the Presidency.  World War II historian Douglas Porch recalls Great Britain's finest hour: gallantly surviving 1940's Nazi air blitz of London -- thereby helping to save the world.  This week: character on "Perspectives."

November 11, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" presents a special Election Review of the Democrats' stunning capture of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.  Bruce DuMont is President of the Museum of Broadcast Communications and National Radio Hall and host, radio's syndicated series, "Beyond the Beltway."  He will detail the Election's repudiation of George W. Bush.  Jay Gallagher, Gannett News Service Albany Bureau Chief, examines the New York State wreckage of the Republican Party, especially their loss of every statewide office.  Finally, Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy explores Western New York, including Congressman Tom Reynolds'  narrow return from the political dead v. opponent Jack Davis.  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

November 4, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" presents its Election Preview:  three experts analyze what's at stake, and what to look for.  Juan Williams is National Public Radio senior correspondent and member, FOX TV All-Stars.  He discusses what will determine which party gains control of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate.  Fred Dicker, New York Post columnist and state editor, etches whether the New York Republican Party can expect an Election Day drubbing.  Finally, Joe Specter, political writer of the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle newspaper, explores who is likely to win Upstate New York Congressional seats now held by GOPers Tom Reynolds and Randy Kuhl.  This week, an Election Preview on "Perspectives."

October 27, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" examines role models.  Who and what are they?  What attributes do they possess?  Greg Parris is Pastor of Rochester, New York's Church of Love Faith Center and Protestant Chaplain, University of Rochester.  He etches how role models have changed in the last 20 years.  David Kuo is a former top official of the White House Office of Community and Faith-Based Initiatives.  His new bombshell book, "Tempting Faith:  The Inside Story of Political Seduction," asks whether President Bush has been an honest role model in keeping faith with those who elected him.  Finally, Polly Labarre, co-author of a new book, "Mavericks At Work:  Why the Most Original Minds in Business Win," explores another role model quality:  being creative and original.  This week:  Role Models, on "Perspectives."

October 21, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" explores folklore in America from Paul Bunyan via Johnny Appleseed to Pecos Bill.  Author and columnist Tim Trager details the strange life of Upstate New York's Rattlesnake Pete, equally hooked on reptiles and pianos.  Paul Johnson is Professor of History, University of South Carolina, and author of the book, "Sam Patch:  The Famous Jumper."  He etches the legendary life of a man who thrived, then tragically died, in this region.  Finally, Sandy Schlosser, author of the famed "Spooky" series about ghosts, apparitions, and legends, examines such folk characters as Casey Jones, Calamity Jane, John Henry, and the Maid of the Mist.  This week:  American folklore, on "Perspectives."

October 14, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" examines men in crisis.  Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy details the Mark Foley political scandal which has rocked Western New York Congressman Tom Reynolds' campaign for re-election.  Tom DeFrank, New York Daily News Washington bureau chief, examines how former Secretary of State James A. Baker III is trying to solve the crisis in Iraq.  Gannett News award-winning columnist Scott Pitonaik explains why New York Yankees manager Joe Torre was almost fired but is safe -- for now.  Men in crisis on this week's "Perspectives."

October 7, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" presents a polling we will go:  three experts on what Americans feel, think, and are.  John Zogby, President of Zogby International Inc., is arguably America's leading pollster.  He explores Ameican attitudes toward next month's election.  Maurice Carroll, head of the Quinnipiac University Polling Institute, provides the latest results on how New York State's races look.  Finally, John Green, Senior Fellow of Religion and American Politics at the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, examines a new Pew Research survey on American views of religion and politics.  All this, and more, on this week's "Perspectives."

September 30, 2006-

This week "Perspectives"discusses fathers, mothers, daughters, and sons -- in short, Family.   Dr. Christina Hoffer Sommers, Resident Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research in Washington, examines why too many boys are academically behaving and socially acting badly.  Then, Dr. Meg Meeker, a pediatric specialist in adolescent health, explores her new book, "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know."  Why is the father-daughter relationship so preciousl?  How can "daddy's girl" become a person of whom she and her father will be proud?  This week, crucial listening for every member of the family -- on "Perspectives.'

September 23, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" explores Election Day:  six weeks away, and counting,  New York Post columnist and State editor Fred Dicker examines the Empire State -- and what Republicans hope to salvage.  National Democratic consultant Hank Sheinkopf debates whether his party can win the House of Representatives and/or Senate.  Pat Toomey, head of the National conservative group Club for Growth, discusses whether the Republican base will vote or not, and why.  This week:  Around the corner, Election Day, on "Perspectives."

September 16, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" features one of the Nation's leading political figures. Patrick J. Buchanan has been Senior Advisor to Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Reagan; MSNBC TV commmentator; founder of, among other shows, "Crossfire"; syndicated columnist; and author of eight books, including his new best-seller, "State of Emergency:  The Invasion and Conquest of America."  Buchanan discusses illegal immigration and its effect on America, including his view that President Bush has not upheld his oath of office to protect our borders and should therefore be impeached.  Also this week:  former Dallas Morning News reporter Bill Minutaglio etches his new book on Bush's Attorney General, terrorism, and civil liberties:  "The President's Counselor:  The Rise to Power of Alberto Gonzalez."  Finally, author Elizabeth Brayer details George Eastman's impact on technology in her critically praised book, "George Eastman:  A Biography."  All this on "Perspectives."

September 9, 2006-

By virtually any criterion, pro football is America's most popular sport, with baseball and college football vying for No. 2.  This week, "Perspectives" explores why as a new season starts.  Regina Corso, Harris Interactive Poll research director, details a new national survey which shows pro football's growing lead.  Award-winning Gannett News columnist Scott Pitoniak examines the state of college football, including such teams as Notre Dame, Penn State, and Syracuse.  Finally, CBS TV broadcaster and former Buffalo Bills All-Pro Steve Tasker etches his new book, 'Steve Tasker's Tales from the Buffalo Bills." This week, we're ready for some football on "Perspectives."

September 2, 2006-

This week's "Perspectives" examines American historic shrines, many of which are struggling.  Have gas prices hurt attendance?  Have children replaced parents in deciding where to vacation?  Can we expect interest in U.S. history to thrive if we don't teach it in school?  Three well-known figures give their views: Colin Campbell, Chairman, CEO, and President of Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia; Cynthia Koch, Director of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library in Hyde Park, New York; and Jeff Idelson, Vice-President, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, New York.  This week, how do we preserve history in a history-challenged age?  We discuss, on "Perspectives."

August 26, 2006-

This week's "Perspectives" examines two great divisions in America. In the wake of the New York Yankees'  stunning five-game sweep of the Boston Red Sox, Buffalo News columnist and lifelong Red Sox fan Jerry Sullivan details what makes this sport's greatest rivalry:  Athens v. Sparta, the Hatfields and McCoys.  Brian Mann contributes stories to National Public Radio's "Morning Edition" and "All Things Considered."  He discusses America's growing rural v. urban division in his new book, "Welcome To The Homeland," published by Steerforth Press.   All in this week's "Perspectives."

August 19, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" examines two issues, each of which has contrasting sides.  Michael Barone is senior writer at U.S. News and World Report, TV's Fox News Channel regular, and author of the Biannual Almanac of American Politics.  He will discuss his new book, "The New Americans," comparing the 20th Century melting pot and today's hyphenated American.  Dave Palmer is a distinguished historian, frequent The History Channel contributor, former West Point Superintendant, and author of the new book, "George Washington and Benedict Arnold:  A Tale of Two Patriots."  Palmer will compare the father of our country and man without a country.  This week, two stories of both sides now on "Perspectives."

August 12, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" examines divisions in New York State and the Nation.  National Public Radio senior correspondent Juan Williams discusses his new book which examines the gulf between black and white and within the black community: "Enough:  The Phony Leaders, Dead-End Movements, and Culture of Failure That Are Undermining Black America -- and What We Can Do About It."  Buffalo News columnist Bob McCarthy details the ever-widening division between Republicans and Democrats in the Empire State.  Finally, former Congressional candidate and head, Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority Bill Nojay explores how the State and America are becoming more polarized between liberals and conservatives.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

August 5, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" etches two great conservative orators.  One, Ronald Reagan, made the Presidency; the other, Barry Goldwater, did not.  Peter Robinson, host of PBS TV's "Uncommon Knowledge TM," was the Speechwriter who composed President Reagan's famed speech in Berlin:  "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"  Robinson will explore Reagan's nonpareil ability to communicate.  Lee Edwards is called the hisorian of America's conservative movement.  He will evoke how Barry Goldwater, even losing the 1964 Presidential Election, paved the way for Reagan's rise.  Edwards will focus on Goldwater's 1964 acceptance speech:  "Extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice!"  In addition, Upstate New York political activist Bill Nojay will contrast conservative rhetoric then and now.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

July 29, 2006-

Winston Churchill called English ammunition to be used in battle.  This week "Perspectives" explores two great liberal rhetoricians who used language in politics.  William Leuchtenburg, Distinguished Professor of History at the University of North Carolina, discusses Franklin Roosevelt's mastery of English.  David Greenburg, Professor of History at Rutgers University, examines the man whom millions deemed FDR's true heir:  Adlai Stevenson of Illinois.  Roosevelt was elected President four times; Stevenson, defeated twice.  This week:  we detail two Lancelots of language.  All on "Perspectives."

July 22, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" concludes a series on First Ladies born in New York State, focusing on Nancy Reagan, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Barbara Bush.  Michael Deaver, long-time aide to Ronald Reagan and friend of Nancy Reagan's, discusses America's 1981-89 First Lady and his book, "Nancy: A Portrait of My Years With Nancy Reagan."  Sally Bedell Smith, contributing editor to "Vanity Fair" Magazine, details America's 1961-63 First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy in her book, "Grace and Power:  The Private World of the Kennedy White House."  Pamela Reeves of Scripps Media, etches our 1989-93 First Lady and mother of the current President in "Barbara Bush:  Patriarch of a Dynasty."  Join us for this week's "Perspectives."

July 15, 2006-

This week "Perspectives" begins a two-part series on First Ladies born in New York State:  eight in all, more than any other state in the Nation.  This week we explore  Eleanor Roosevelt, Francis Folsom Cleveland, and Elizabeth Monroe.  Grandson David Roosevelt discusses his book, "Grandmere: A Personal History of Eleanor Roosevelt"," America's 1933-45 First Lady.  Rebecca Edwards, Assoociate Professor of History at Vassar College, examines the great popularity of Mrs. Cleveland, 1886-89 and 1893-97 First Lady.  Dan Preston, editor of The Papers of James Monroe, discusses the legacy of our 1817-25 First Lady, Elizabeth Monroe.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

July 8, 2006

This week "Perspectives" examines the American art of storytelling.  Tonya Loran, a Native American storyteller at the Ganondagan Indian historic site in Canandaigua, New York, etches tales passed from one age and tribe to another.  America's longest-running television sportscaster, Hall of Famer Bob Wolff, details how anecdote is crucial to sports play-by-play.  Finally, Kevin Kling, playwright, performer, and regular commentator and contributor to National Public Radio's "All Things Considered," describes what makes narrative and the narrator thrive.  This week:  the timeless craft of storytelling on "Perspectives."

July 1, 2006

This week, on the eve of America's July 4 birthday, "Perspectives" hails other anniversaries, too.  Fifty years ago this summer the revolutionary Federal Highway System was created.  Brian Keeter, Public Affairs, the Federal Highway Administration, discusses how the Interstate System was born, and what it's meant.  Thirty years ago the Genesee Country Village and Museum rose in Mumford, New York, to celebrate 19th Century America. 
President and CEO Betsy Harrison describes how it has grown since then.  Finally, this year marks the thirtieth anniversary of perhaps basebll's greatest-ever play:  Rick Monday, saving the American flag during a game from two protestors who tried to burn it.  Monday joins us to describe America's response then -- and now.  This week, a Happy Birthday of special anniversaries to America on "Perspectives.

June 24, 2006

Horace Greeley said, "Go west, young man, go west."  This week's "Perspectives" goes south to politics' most influential region.  Noted historian William Leuchtenburg, Professor Emeritus of the University of North Carolina, discusses his new book, "The White House Looks South:  Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, and Lyndon Johnson" -- each with "one foot above the Mason-Dixon Line, one below."  Martin Medhurst, Professor of Communications at Baylor University, details his new book, "The Rhetorical Presidency of George Bush" -- and how Bush 41 and 43 rhetorically compare.  Finally, author Mickey Herksowitz recalls the man who might have been the greatest Southerner not to become President:  John B. Connally, profiled in his "In History's Shadow."  This week:  Even a Northerner must understand the region with more than half the electoral notes needed to elect a President.  "The South and Presidents," on "Perspectives."

June 17, 2006

This week "Perspectives" hails Father's Day by etching three different aspects of being Dear Old Dad.  Buffalo-area Assemblyman Sam Hoyt recalls succeeding his father in the New York State Assembly.  Rochester political activist Bill Nojay discusses becoming the father to two adopted Korean children.  And USA Today columnist Christine Brennan, America's preeminent woman sportswriter, details her new book, "Best Seat In The House" -- that seat being next to her beloved late father.  This week, three cheers for Dad:  Father's Day on "Perspectives."

June 10, 2006

This week "Perspectives" etches thre pivotal examples of what character is, and means.  Historian Harry Turtledove recalls Abraham Lincoln's agony and ecstasy as he prepared the Emancipation Proclamation.  Edward Renehan, Chief Executive Officer of the Theodore Roosevelt Association, evokes TR's valiant third-party attempt in 1912 to rewin the Presidency.  World War II historian Douglas Porch details Great Britain's finest hour: gallantly surviving 1940's Nazi air blitz of London -- thereby helping to save the world.  This week:  character, on "Perspectives."

June 3, 2006

This week "Perspectives" analyzes artistic expression:  in particular, two Upstate New Yorkers who mined an alchemy of look, sound, and feel.  Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Kennedy recalls a career, including his book "Ironweed," which made him, like Albany, a literary household word.  Rochester's Mitch Miller became a beloved performer and conductor.  His friend, James Undercouffler, Dean and Director of the Eastman School of Music, details why an entire Nation loved to sing along with Mitch.  This week:  Artistry at work on "Perspectives."

May 27, 2006

This week "Perspectives" explores politics on the eve of a crucial off-year election.  The Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy examines what Upstate New York Republicans increasingly fear, and Democrats hope.  New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker etches the campaign for New York Governor, U.S. Senate, and State Senate and Assembly.  Juan Williams is a best-selling author, Fox News Channel's TV "All-Stars" member, and National Public Radio Senior National Correspondent.  He details why President Bush's approval rating has hit an all-time low -- and what, if anything, can enhance it.  This week:  Politics on "Perspectives."

May 20, 2006

"This week "Perspectives" continues its special series on celebrities from Upstate New York.  Long-time columnist Larry Felser of the Buffalo News recalls his friend, legendary New York Yankees baseball manager Joe McCarthy.  Chuck Mancusco, Professor of Music at SUNY at Buffalo and author of "Popular Music And The Underground," explores the wondrous jazzman Cab Calloway.  Caroline Yaeger, Assistant Curator, Motion Picture Department of Rochester's George Eastman House, details the career of actor, playwright, and director Garsin Kanin.  This week:  Celebrities born and/or raised in Upstate New York.  All on "Perspectives."

May 13, 2006

This week "Perspectives" begins a special salute to celebrities of Upstate New York.  Sober or playing drunk, Foster Brooks was unforgettable.  Former Buffalo News radio critic Tony Violanti etches his rise from WGR Buffalo Radio to network television.  Louise Brooks spent much of her later life in Rochester.  Award-winning Gannett News Service film critic Jack Garner salutes the famed dancer and actress'  100th birthday.  Born in Livonia, New York, Irving Crane got a toy billiards table as a child.  His love of pool made Crane an indelible adult.  Our Celebrities of Upstate New York series begins this week, on "Perspectives."

May 6, 2006

This week "Perspectives" recalls sports figures that New Yorkers have loathed but loved.  Baseball author Bruce Markusen recalls the Boston Red Sox' Ted Williams, who hated the New York Yankees as much as he loved to hit.  Award-winning Gannett News columnist Scott Pitoniak describes the New York Giants' antihero:  the Cleveland Browns' famed football running back Jimmy Brown.  Finally, hockey's Buffalo Sabres-turned-Nashville Predators play-by-playman Pete Weber details the Sabres's bete noir:  Philadelphia Flyers' captain Bobby Clark.  This week:  Household names whom New Yorkers remember with both contempt and admiration, on "Perspectives."

April 29, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" looks at veterans and war, especially Iraq's. Tom Cray, Founder, President, and Chief Operating Officer of Upstate New York's Veterans Outreach Center, details challenges of Iraqi returnees to America.  Ronald Dratch of the Labor Department in Washington specializes in employment issues for veterans.  He will describe the job market that awaits them.  Tom DeFrank is nationally known columnist and head of the Washington bureau of The New York Daily News.  He explores the cost of the Iraqi war, its future, and its likely fate.  This week:  Veterans and War, on "Perspectives."

April 22 , 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" concludes a two-part salute to radio:  America's theater of the mind.  Former Buffalo News Radio Critic Tony Violanti, now Ocala, Florida, Star-Banner Entertainment Critic, discusses radio niche programming.  Former Rochester broadcaster Matt Rinaldi announced radio and television for a quarter-century (1965-91).  He compares wireless standards then -- and now.  Finally, Congresswoman Louise Slaughter of New York's 28th District, including both Buffalo and Rochester, explores the FCC's Fairness Doctrine -- and how corporate monopolies affect the listener.  This week:  A look at radio, on "Perspectives."

April 15 , 2006- (mp3)

This week Perspectives begins a two-part salute to radio -- America's theater of the mind.  The New York Times' Gerald Eskenazi discusses his memoir of radio's golden age, "I Hid It Under the Sheets:  Growing Up With Radio."  Former Buffalo News Radio Critic Tony Violanti, now Media and Entertainment Critic of the Ocala, Florida, Star-Banner, details how the wireless has changed.  Finally, Bruce Dumont, Founder, CEO, and President of the Museum of Broadcast Communications, explores America's only National Radio Hall of Fame -- who's there, and why.  This week:  Part One of a Salute to Radio on Perspectives.

April 8 , 2006- (mp3)

This week's "Perspectives" salutes the new baseball season.  Three experts discuss what a "Sports Illustrated" poll calls Upstate New York's most popular sport.  Hall of Fame outfielder Monte Irvin, who played for the 1949-56 Giants and Cubs, recalls the old Negro Leagues and major leagues.  Naomi Silver, Chairman of the Board and Chief Operating Officer, Rochester Red Wings, explores the state of the minor leagues.  Finally, Glenn Geffner, former Red Wings broadcaster and now Media Relations Director of the Boston Red Sox, etches the Yankees-Red Sox -- sport's greatest rivalry.  "Play ball!" on this week's "Perspectives."

April 1 , 2006- (mp3)

New York State has produced many riveting fiction and nonfiction authors.  This week's "Perspectives" profiles three of the best.  When Alison Smith of Penfield, a Rochester suburb, was 15, her 18-year-old brother was killed in a car acccident.  Her touching memoir, "Name All the Animals," has been published in America and six other countries.  Joanna Scott is among America's finest novelists: to Kirkus Reviews, "one of contemporary fiction's most eloquent and essential voices."  She discusses her new book, "Liberation."  Gore Vidal calls Bill Kauffman "The Sage of Batavia, New York."  Kauffman explores New York State's grand literary tradition -- and his newest book, "Look Homeward, America."  This week:  A look at some of the Empire State's leading authors, on "Perspectives."

March 25, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" explores folklore in America from Paul Bunyan via Johnny Appleseed to Pecos Bill.
Author and columnist Tim Trager details the strange life of Upstate New York's Rattlesnake Pete, equally hooked on reptiles and pianos.  Paul Johnson is Professor of History, University of South Carolina, and author of the book, 'Sam Patch:  The Famous Jumper."  He etches the legendary life of a man who thrived, then tragically died, in this region.  Finally, Sandy Schlosser, author of the famed "Spooky" series about ghosts, apparitions, and legends, examines such folk characters as Casey Jones, Calamity Jane, John Henry, and the Maid of the Mist.  This week:  American folklore, on "Perspectives."

March 18, 2006- (mp3)

In 1960, the Broadway musical "Bye Bye Birdie" yelped, "Kids!  What's the matter with kids today?"  This week's "Perspectives" asks that question in the wake of the recent Winter Olympics.  Christine Brennan, USA Today columnist, veteran Games observer, and author of the new book, "Best House in the House," explores what this year's U.S. Olympian behavior says about kids -- and parents.  America's leading sports parenting expert, Rick Wolff, author of the upcoming book, "Parenting Young Athletes the Ripken Way," discusses to what extent parents deserve behavior's credit -- or blame.  Dennis Richardson, President and CEO of Western New York's Hillside Family of Agencies, examines how children have changed since he entered youth development thirty years ago.  "What's the matter with kids today?" this week on "Perspectives."

March 11, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" takes an in-depth look at two different U.S. Presidencies:  one buoyed by mythology; the other, seemingly mired in malaise.  Abraham Lincoln served as President from 1861-65.  British author and historian Richard Carwardine details The Great Emancipator in his new book, "Lincoln:  A Life of Purpose and Power."  George W. Bush, President since 2001, this month hit a record-low 34 percent approval rating.  Bruce Bartlett, conservative columnist and former aide to former Presidents Reagan and Bush, discusses his new book, "Imposter:  How George W. Bush Bankrupted America and Betrayed the Reagan Legacy."  This week, two controversial Republican Presidents are explored on "Perspectives."

March 4 , 2006- (mp3)

This week, on the eve of the Academy Awards, "Perspectives" features a man who has arguably written more and better about movies than anyone.  Jack Garner is the long-time Chief Film Critic for Gannett News Service.  For the entire show he will explore this uniquely American art form.  Mr. Garner will discuss the genre; film's evolution; Oscar categories like Best Picture, Actor, and Actress; and those who should have been honored in the past -- but weren't.  He will explore this year's Academy Awards nominees, who is likely to win, and why.  Whatever a listener's favorite film, he or she is likely to hear it mentioned.  This week, a tribute to a truly fine film critic on the eve of America's tribute to film:  Jack Garner and the Oscars on "Perspectives."

February 25, 2006- (mp3)

Last week "Perspectives" began a series on larger-than-life New Yorkers.  This week it concludes by etching one man who might have been President -- and another who still may.  Mario Cuomo was New York's only three-term Democratic Governor:  to the Boston Globe, America's most gifted philosopher-politician."  Former close aide and now Chairman and CEO of the Philadelphia Stock Exchange Sandy Frucher and New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker explore his rhetoric, appeal, and why he never ran for Preisdent.  Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani may run for President in 2008.  America's Mayor is profiled by Fred Siegel, Professor of History at Cooper Union for Science and Art and author of the widely-praised book, "The Prince of the City:  Giuliani, New York, and the Genius of American Life."  This week, two larger-than-life politicians on a larger-than-life "Perspectives."

February 18, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" begins a special two-part series on larger-than-life New Yorkers.  A week from now we explore a man who might have been President, Mario Cuomo, and another who may, Rudy Giuliani.  This week's "Perspectives" salutes two institutions who live in memory.  Perhaps Broadway's brightest star, the timeless Ethel Merman, is etched by producer, lyricist, and creator of the Musicals101.com web site, John Kenrick.  Then, The Great One, television's incomparable Jackie Gleason, is remembered by Donna McCrohan, author of "The Honeymooners Companion," among other books.  Merman and Gleason, recalled by two people who knew them well:  All on this week's larger-than-life "Perspectives.

February 11, 2006- (mp3)

When Richard Nixon resigned the Presidency, Henry Kissinger said that history would vindicate him.  "Henry," Nixon replied, "that depends on who writes it."  This week "Perspectives" writes the three-term history of New York Governor George Pataki as he starts his final year.  Bob Ward, Director of Research of the Business Council of New York State, describes Pataki's economic record.  Buffalo News political columnist Bob McCarthy explores Pataki's political career.  Gerald Benjamin, Dean of the College at SUNY at New Paltz and author of many books, including "The Rockefellers of New York," examines the Governor's place in Empire State history.  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

February 4, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" explores football's Super Bowl:  American secular religion, American rite.  Pittsburgh and Seattle meet in Super Bowl XL, the game almost incidental to the hype and buzz.  CBS Television broadcaster and former Buffalo Bill Steve Tasker recalls how close his old team came to winning a Super Bowl.  The Pro Football Hall of Fame's Pete Fierle details the game's historic highs and lows.  Award-winning Gannett News Service columnist Scott Pitonaik analyzes why the event has become so -- super.  America's most widely-watched event: all on this week's "Perspectives."

January 28, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" examines the state of the national Democratic Party.  Are they taking advantage of President Bush's winter of discontent?  Do the Alito hearings show a party of moderation, or extremism? Are they exploiting Republican vulnerability, or snatching defeat from the jaws of victory?  New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker examines the party's strengths and weaknesses.  Democratic consultant Hank Schoenkopf examines what it's doing right and wrong.  Republican pollster David Winston explores whether Democrats are letting Bush off the ropes.  The Loyal Opposition:  All on this week's "Perspectives."

January 21, 2006- (mp3)

This week 'Perspectives" etches three pivotal examples of what character is, and means.  Historian Harry Turtledove recalls Abraham Lincoln's agony and ecstasy as he prepared the Emancipation Proclamation.  Edward Renehan, Chief Executive Officer of the Theodore Roosevelt Association, evokes TR's valiant third-party attempt in 1912 to rewin the Presidency.  World War II historian Douglas Porch recalls Great Britain's finest hour:  gallantly surviving 1940's Nazi air blitz of London -- thereby helping to save the world.  This week:  character, on "Perspectives."

January 14, 2006- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" etches the what-if, how-close, what-might-have-been that changed the world.  Suppose Gettysburgh had gone the other way:  Historian Jay Winik, best-selling author of "April 1865:  The Month That Saved America," says the South would have won the Civil War.  June 6, 1944, was D-Day:  The Allies' amphibious invasion of Hitler's Europe.  Prolific World War II historian Robert Paxton explores whether, had it failed,  Europe would be speaking German today.  Three years ago American forces invaded Iraq.  Columnist Jay Byrant details the variables that have shaped the war.  Pivotal what-ifs in history:  This week on "Perspectives."

January 7, 2006- (mp3)

In 1861, Abraham Lincoln left Springfield, Illinois, to assume the Presidency.  He concluded, "I bid you an affectionate farewell."  This week's "Perspectives" bids farewell to two leading Upstate New York Mayors, each leaving office after 12 years.  Rochester's Bill Johnson will become Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at Rochester Institute of Technology.  Binghamton's Richard Bucci becomes Director of Professional Development in the Vestal School District.  In "Perspectives," each will explore the challenges facing all Upstate cities, including Buffalo and Syracuse:  graying demographics, a lagging economy, the effect of State tax and spend, and the need for regional identity -- panache.  This week:  The changing of the urban guard, on "Perspectives."

December 31, 2005- (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" presents its annual New Year's special:  a look back; a look ahead.  Juan Williams, National Correspondent for National Public Radio, recalls a dismal year for President Bush -- Iraq, Hurricane Katrina, sagging poll numbers -- and explores whether 2006 may be better.  On the eve of becoming Brighton, New York, Town Judge, former New York State Senator Richard Dollinger previews this coming year's statewide elections.  Political columnist Bob McCarthy of the Buffalo News looks forward to new Mayors in several Western New York cities -- and the region's economic challenges.  Each presents his 2006 prediction for Person of the Year.  All this -- and more -- on this week's "Perspectives."

December 24, 2005- (mp3)

This week on "Perspectives": a special show on the 2006 challenges facing New York State.  How do we lure business here?  How do we keep Upstate New York's population here?  Do our policies attract or repel outsiders?  Why is State government rated the most dysfunctional in the country?  Jay Gallagher, Albany Bureau Chief of Gannett News Service, is the author of a new book, "The Politics of Decline:  A Chronicle of New York's Descent and What You Can Do to Save Your State."  He will spend the hour exploring the economy, social and cultural trends, the legacy of soon-to-be former Governor George Pataki, and the 2006 State Elections.  Beyond Pataki, Gallagher will discuss Hillary Clinton, Rudy Giuliani, Joseph Bruno, Elliott Spitzer, Richard Dollinger, and Steve Minarik, among many others.  This week:  a comprehensive look at why Gallagher deems New York State in decline -- and how we can stop it.  All on "Perspectives."

December 17, 2005 -

America's third political parties have a long and checkered history, nominating at one time or another  Theodore Roosevelt, Henry Wallace, George Wallace, and Ross Perot.  This week's "Perspectives" etches the future of the Empire State's third political parties.  Henry Stern,  Chairman of  New York's Liberal Party, recalls a proud and pioneering tradition which he hopes to resurrect at the ballot box.  Conservative Party Chairman Michael Long explores the 2006 Election, including whether a Republican Party Gubernatorial candidate will get his endorsement.  Jeff Koch, Professor and Chairman of Political Science and International Relations at SUNY at Geneseo, on third parties' historic role.  All this on this week's "Perspectives.

December 10, 2005 -

This week "Perspectives" looks at kids -- specifically, what a major "New York Times"  story recently called "Kids Gone Wild."  Judith Smetana, Professor, Clinical and Social Psychology, the University of Rochester, explores how to raise a morally developed child.  Next, nationally known child psychiatrist Alvin Rosenfeld discusses the overscheduled child -- and how it reflects the trap of hyperparenting.  Finally, Harvard University child pscyhologist Dan Kindlon examines raising children of character in an indulgent age.  Are more children rude, disruptive, and spoiled than even a decade ago?  If so, why?  How can the trend be reversed?  Three experts discuss our kids.  All this week on "Perspectives."

December 3, 2005 -

This week "Perspectives" explores a timeless literary tradition:  the art form of the anthology.  Famed mystery writer and editor Otto Penzler, whose books include "Dangerous Women," "Murder Is My Racquet," and annual "Best American Mystery Stories of the Year," examines fiction anthology.  Andrew Blauner, President of Blauner Books,  discusses his new non-fiction sports anthology "Coach: 25 Writers Reflect on People Who Made a Difference," with such writers as Pat Conroy, Frank Deford, and George Plimpton and a foreword by Bill Bradley.  Finally, Les Pockell, Warner Books Associate Publisher and author of numerous anthologies from poems to horror stories, details what the art form is, and why it works in fiction and non-fiction .  All this week on "Perspectives."

November 26, 2005 -

This week "Perspectives" looks in-depth at three major issues in the news.  Former New York State Assembly Republican leader John Faso is running for Governor.  He discusses if his State party is in permanent free-fall -- or temporary eclipse.  One of President Bush's few recent bright spots is the response to Samuel Alito's Supreme Court nomination.  Peter Durant, partner in the Upstate law firm of Nixon Peabody, explores what lies ahead.   Bush's political quagmire has become the war in Iraq.  Carroll Douherty, Associate Director of the Pew Research Center, details a new poll which shows Middle America and opinion leaders turning against the war.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

November 19, 2005 -

This week, on Thanksgiving Eve, "Perspectives" etches several traditions for which we can be thankful.  Christopher Bench, Vice President of Collections, Rochester' Strong Museum, explores timeless toys -- specifically the National Toy Hall of Fame.  Paul Jenkins, chef and partner of the popular Buffalo restaurant Tempo, looks at the tradition, holiday and otherwise, of eating out.  Finally, Gannett Company prize-winning columnist Scott Pitoniak discusses his new book, "Slices of Orange," about Upstate New York's tradition of following Syracuse University football and basketball.  This week:  traditions, on "Perspectives."

November 12, 2005-

This week's "Perspectives" honors Veterans Day by saluting three great American generals who helped to win World War II.  Brown University historian Samuel Brenner recalls the beloved Dwight Eisenhower, who oversaw the D-Day 1944 Allied invasion, Operation Overlord, of Hitler's Europe.  Dr. Malcolm (Kip) Muir, Professor of Military History, Virginia Military Institute, details "Blood and Guts" -- George Patton, the incomparable leader of the U.S. Third Army.  Dr. Michael Schaller, Professor of History, University of Arizona, explores the equally theatric Douglas MacArthur, who said of the Phillipines, "I shall return" -- and did.  Three legendary military figures -- each helping to win perhaps America's most legendary war.  All this week -- on "Perspectives."

November 5, 2005-

This week "Perspectives" offers a true thinking person's show:  Great Inventors from New York State.  Wilson Greatbatch, born and still living near Buffalo, discusses his monumental invention:  the implanted cardiac pacemaker,  which has prolonged millions of lives of seriously ill people.  Author Raymond Arsenault explores the life and work of Upstate New York's Willis Carrier, the father of air conditioning, which literally transformed American industry and culture.  Finally, Vice President Jeff Idelson of the Baseball Hall of Fame details the myth and fact of General Abner Doubleday, said to invent the national pastime in Cooperstown in 1839.  Great Inventors from New York State:  all on this week's "Perspectives."

October 29, 2005 -

This week "Perspectives" expores the Bush Presidency in the wake of Harriet Miers' nomination to the Supreme Court.  George W. Bush:  Free fall, or temporary reverse?  Former Conservative New York City Mayoral candidate and columnist/commentator George Marlin etches parallels in the malaise of the White House and New York State Republican Party.  Tom DeFrank, White House correspondent for the New York Daily News, this week broke the story of friction between Bush and Vice President Cheney.  He details the collapse of Bush's conservative support.  Jerry Zeremski, Washington correspondent of the Buffalo News, explores whether Bush's recovery is possible -- and if so, how.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

October 22, 2005 -

This week "Perspectives" examines two great conservative orators.  One, Ronald Reagan, made the Presidency; the other, Barry Goldwater, did not.  Peter Robinson, host of PBS TV's "Uncommon Knowledge TM," was the Speechwriter who composed President Reagan's famed speech in Berlin, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall."  Robinson will explore Reagan's nonpareil ability to communicate.  Lee Edwards is often called the historian of America's conservative movement.  He will evoke how Barry Goldwater, even losing the 1964 Presidential Election, paved the way for Reagan's rise.  Edwards will focus on Goldwater's 1964 acceptance speech:  "Extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice."  In addition, Upstate New York political activist Bill Nojay will contrast conservative rhetoric then and now.  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

October 15, 2005 -

Winston Churchill called English ammunition to be used in battle.  This week "Perspectives" explores two great liberal rhetoricians who used language in politics.  William Leuchtenburg, Distinguished Professor of History at the University of North Carolina, discusses Franklin Roosevelt's mastery of language.  David Greenburg, Professor of History at Rutgers University, examines the man whom millions deemed FDR's true heir:  Adlai Stevenson.  Roosevelt was elected President four times; Stevenson, defeated twice.  This week:  we detail two Lancelots of language:  its power and limitations.  All on  "Perspectives."

October 8 , 2005 - (mp3)

This week "Perspectives" explores three major sides of print journalism.  Lee Capulla, Dean of the Jandoli School of Journalism and Mass Communication at St. Bonaventure University, discusses the future of newspapers.  Melissa Chesshe, Associate Professor of the Magazine Department at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, examines the growing popularity of niche magazines.  Rick Wolff, Vice President, Warner Books, and Sports Illustrated columnist, looks at the state of book reading and publishing.  Are fewer people reading?  If so, why?  All this and more on this week's "Perspectives."

October 1 , 2005 - (mp3)

This week's "Perspectives" looks at three great U.S. institutions.  Journalist Matt Rees of The New Republic, The Wall Street Journal, and The Economist explores the institution of coffee -- and today's specialty coffee craze.  Why has coffee never meant more to more Americans?  Ron Haskins, Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, discusses a new study on the state of the two-parent family.  Do children need two parents, not one?  Finally, Kathleen Turner, Professor, Communication Studies at Davidson College, on the 75th anniversary of the famed "Blondie" comic strip.  What is the magic that has made this institution endure?  All this on this week's "Perspectives."

September 24, 2005

Pre-empted for Rita Hurricane Coverage

September 17, 2005 - (mp3)

Polling data says that Upstate New York's three favorite fall sports are baseball and pro and college football.  On this week's "Perspectives," three acclaimed broadcasters explore each.  The inimitable Ken ("Hawk") Harrelson, Voice of baseball's 2005 surprise team, the Chicago White Sox, discusses the national pastime's steroids, expanded playoff, and overall health.  ESPN Television's college football Voice, Sean McDonough, analyzes such issues as Indian nicknames, a national playoff, scholarships, and the fortunes of Syracuse and Notre Dame.  John Murphy is the popular play-by-play radio announcer of the Buffalo Bills.  He looks at TV overexposure, national v. local revenue sharing, and the Bills' likely regular-season record.  Three Voices:  three widely popular Upstate sports.  All on this week's "Perspectives."

September 10, 2005 -

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, "Perspectives" this week explores three of America's greatest natural disasters of the past 100 years.  First, Katrina.  John Butrill, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Rochester chapter, American Red Cross, details the human and property loss of the worst-ever U.S. natural disaster.  The previous worst had been Tropical Storm Agnes, which devastated the Eastern United States, including New York, in 1972.  Historian Tom Dimitroff remembers how it was.  Finally, author H. Paul Jeffers details his book, "Disaster By the Bay:  The Great San Francisco Earthquake and Fire of 1906," which reduced Baghdad by the Bay to rubble.  All this week on "Perspectives."

September 3, 2005 -

Historically, politics begins with Labor Day.  As people stop picnicing, they start looking at menu choices on the ballot.  This week "Perspectives" looks at State, regional, and national politics.  New York Post columnist and state editor Fred Dicker explains the New York State Republican Party's tumultuous last month.  WXXI
Television News director Michael Caputo explores the lessons that Upstate can learn from Rochester's suddenly bitter Mayoral campaign.  National Journal Hotline editor in chief Chuck Todd compares the two major parties nationally:  Will Iraq sink George W. Bush?  Is the Democratic Party providing an alternative?  All this week on "Perspectives."

August 27, 2005 -

As summer vacation ends, this week's Perspectives explores three books by leading journalists that no reader can easily put down.  The Boston Globe's Thomas Oliphant etches his lovely memoir of 1950s Brooklyn, "Praying for Gil Hodges."  Charles Peters, founder of Washington Monthly, details "Five Days In Philadelphia:  The Amazing 'We Want (Wendell) Willkie!' Convention of 1940 and How It Freed FDR To Save the Western World.   Finally, long-time TIME columnist Hugh Sidey on the book he helped George Bush write a forward to:  Absolute Victory:  America's Greatest Generation and Their World War II Triumph.