WEEKEND TV : From Willie to Roger Williams

Big political questions, some big-name crooners and a bigger than life star of the past instill some life into this Memorial Day weekend’s television.

First, KNBC Channel 4’s “News Conference” interviews incoming Police Chief Willie Williams about the Los Angeles riots and his plans to reform the police department, Sunday at 6:30 and 9:30 a.m.

Later Sunday, public television stations will carry a debate between the Democratic candidates for the U.S. Senate seat formerly occupied by Gov. Pete Wilson, 7 p.m. (28), 10 p.m. (15)(50) and 11 p.m. (24). Gray Davis and Joseph M. Alioto will face off. Front-runner Dianne Feinstein has been invited, but at press time she had not confirmed her participation.

Cable’s American Movie Classics, meanwhile, kicks off a week of John Wayne films Sunday at 6 p.m. with the wide-screen version of “The War Wagon.”

And Ozzie Davis hosts the “National Memorial Day Concert” Sunday at 7:30 p.m. (28)(15), 5:30 p.m. (24)(50). The musical celebration marks the 50th anniversary of World War II and features the Air Force Honor Guard and Band, the National Symphony Orchestra and singers Leslie Uggams, Mel Torme, Perry Como and Roger Williams.