Connections Podcast

We sit down with members of the Puerto Rican community to discuss what is needed most after Hurricane Maria. They share their stories of trying to reach family and friends on the island. We also discuss ways we can help during this crisis. Our guests: Patricia Cruz-Irving, director of development and communications, Ibero American Action League Isabel Cordova , historian and associate professor in the Department of History and Political Science, Nazareth College Maria Delgado, nurse whose

Dr. Willie Parker is an outspoken abortion provider and a man of faith. In his new memoir, Life’s Work , he writes, “I believe that as an abortion provider, I am doing God’s work. I am protecting women’s rights, their human right to decide their futures for themselves, and to live their lives as they see fit.” But this wasn’t always Dr. Parker’s view. He resisted performing abortions for much of his early career, and it wasn’t until he had a “come to Jesus” moment that he changed his mind. Now,

If you own a car, think about how easy it is to get in, drive yourself to work, and park near your building each day. It’s something you may take for granted. Yet, for thousands of people living in poverty in the Rochester area, it’s an unattainable goal. 68,000 people in the City of Rochester live below the poverty line, and 26 percent of households in Rochester do not own a car. Those residents often rely on the bus system, spending sometimes more than an hour commuting to their jobs. The

For 44 years, you could find actress Sonia Manzano on Sesame Street playing the iconic character, "Maria." While loyal Sesame Street viewers knew her as a cheerful and supportive friend to Big Bird, Elmo, and Oscar, Manzano's role on the show was more than meets the eye: she was the first Latina woman many viewers ever saw on television, and she won 15 Emmys for writing scripts that explored a number of issues, including multiculturalism. Manzano is the keynote speaker for the YWCA of Rochester

ROC the Future is gearing up to release its 2017 State of Our Children report. The document tracks how Rochester's children are faring "from cradle to career." The 2016 report highlighted progress in third grade reading levels and a reduction in absenteeism, while demonstrating the need for improvement in students' math proficiency and parental involvement. So how did we do this year? We review the 2016 report and preview this year's findings, which are set to be released next month. In studio:

Weekend Connections is a collection of some of the most noteworthy moments from the week on Connections with Evan Dawson. This episode includes conversations about: The debate over punching Nazis; The value of studying abroad, despite concerns about terrorism; Sean Spicer's appearance at the Emmys, and when entertainment and politics mix; Why more "average citizens" are running for office.

Since ancient times, combat veterans have suffered from war stress, PTSD, and suicidal urges. The Veterans Outreach Center is bringing Theater of War to Rochester to examine those issues. The classic Greek story of Ajax depicts the warrior, struggling with pride, reputation, family, and ultimately suicide. Centuries ago, as today, it was difficult to talk about these issues. Theater of War aims to open the door to discussion and to healing. Our guests: Nick Stefanovic, veteran and board vice

The grandchildren of two of the most prominent world figures will come together in Rochester for one night -- but first, they're on Connections. Gandhi and Dorothy Day worked for social justice through nonviolence. Their grandchildren, Arun Gandhi, and Martha and Kate Hennessy, will speak about their family legacies. It's particularly timely, with violent protests happening around the world. In studio: Arun Gandhi, grandson of Gandhi Martha Hennessy, granddaughter of Dorothy Day Kate Hennessy,

We're broadcasting from WEOS, Finger Lakes Public Radio, and we're talking about efforts to revitalize the music scene in downtown Geneva. The Smith Center for the Arts recently brought in a new director and she has big plans for the performing arts venue. We talk with Susie Monagan about her vision. We also hear from the owner and the musical director of FLX Live , a music bar in downtown Geneva that's bringing new life to the scene. Our guests: Susie Monagan , director of the Smith Center for

We're broadcasting from WEOS, Finger Lakes Public Radio in Geneva, and we're talking to the co-presidents of the National Women's Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls. On September 16, ten new women were inducted into the Hall. We hear about their achievements, the induction process, and the Hall's goal to renovate the historic former Seneca Knitting Mill as its new home. Our guests: Betty Bayer, co-president of the National Women's Hall of Fame Eileen Hartmann, co-president of the National Women's Hall