Smart Talk

Radio Smart Talk 05/17/2013 Great Pennsylvania Outdoor Challenge / Are Pennsylvanians changing their minds on social issues?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 17 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Springtime weather is perfect for getting outdoors -- whether it's in the yard, hiking, biking, or just taking a deep breath of fresh air. You may be surprised at the benefits of the outdoors. In April, researchers at the University of Kansas reported a 50% boost in creativity for people who were in nature for a few days. Even short periods of time outside are helpful. A 2008 University of Michigan study found after just an hour of interacting with nature, memory and attention spans improved by 20%. The mission of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation is to promote and support the natural and cultural resources of Pennsylvania's state parks and forests. The non-profit organization is holding the fifth annual Great Pennsylvania Outdoor Challenge to do just that. Learn how on Friday's Radio Smart Talk from foundation president Marci Mowery. Pennsylvania is changing right before our eyes. So says Franklin and Marshall College political analyst Dr. G. Terry Madonna. Madonna and Dr. Michael Young, another longtime analyst, write in their latest Politically Uncorrected column that this month's statewide F and M poll shows shifting attitudes on several social issues. The poll indicates 54% favor same sex marriage, 89% support universal background checks for all gun sales, and while 54% oppose legalizing marijuana for recreational use, the opposition is down from 72% seven years ago. Madonna says the cultural change is being led by younger Pennsylvanians.

Radio Smart Talk 05/16/2013 Student loan debt

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The health story that attracted the nation's attention this week was news that actress Angelina Jolie had undergone a preventive double mastectomy after learning she carries a gene that increases her risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Sometimes it takes a well-known person publicizing their personal stories of dealing with a health issue to get others to notice or learn more. Jolie's announcement through a column in the New York Times certainly shined a spotlight on women's health. May 12th through the 18th is National Women's Health Week. Accordingly, Radio Smart Talk will address women's health issues on Thursday's program as part of witf's Transforming Health initiative. The major health concerns of women include heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, and depression, but we'll also look at families where women are often the health caregivers and the stress and challenges that role presents. Appearing on the program will be Dr. Peter Cardinal, MD, Medical Director of Holy Spirit Health System's Physician Practices and Peggy Hummel, CRNP, a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner with Pinnacle Health.-

Radio Smart Talk 05/15/2013 Student loan debt

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 15 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Its common today to hear recent college graduates say their number one priority is to find a job or start their career. Next on the list for many of them will be to pay off their student loans. The average loan debt for today's graduates is $26,500. What many graduates are finding is good paying jobs are hard to come by and sometimes they have to settle for employment that makes re-paying a loan a challenge along with affording all their other expenses. At the end of 2012, total outstanding federal and private student loan debt was estimated at $1.1 trillion -- that's up 30% in just the last five years. The situation has reached a point where many believe the amount of debt could slow down the economy. As a result, the Obama Administration has proposed a student loan forgiveness program if a debtor pays 10% of the income after basic expenses over 20 years. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll study student loan debt and look at the options. Appearing on the program will be Varo Duffins, Associate Director of Financial Aid at Franklin and Marshall College and Paul Maulfair, CPA, Vice President and Tax Director, Corporate Controller Group, at Susquehanna Bancshares.

Radio Smart Talk 05/14/2013 How vulnerable is Central PA transportation infrastructure?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 14 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Interstate 81 near Harrisburg in Dauphin County is open after being closed both north and southbound since last Thursday morning. That's when a tanker truck hauling diesel fuel crashed and burned. The fire got so hot that it weakened the overpass and underpass that is part of a confluence of highways. Right after the crash, traffic throughout the region was at a standstill for hours. Motorists had to find alternate routes to where they were going. It was a good example of the ripple effect on the highways and streets throughout the Harrisburg region when there is a major disruption of a transportation hub. Is Harrisburg unique or would a similar incident have the same impact if say the Schuylkill Expressway was closed near Philadelphia? At a time when we hear that more than a quarter of Pennsylvania's bridges are structurally deficient, Thursday's incident begs the question whether our transportation infrastructure is vulnerable? Repairs to I-81 are expected to cost about $10 million alone and Gov. Tom Corbett's Transportation Advisory Commission estimated the state's is about $3.5 billion behind in transportation funding, so how to pay for upgrades is an issue. Many are asking after the tanker crash whether more investment in mass transit or additional commuter programs are needed. Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on transportation issues and whether region is vulnerable.

Radio Smart Talk 05/13/2013 Dropping out of school means less $

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 13 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The latest statistics indicate 83% of Pennsylvania students who start ninth grade actually graduate high school. The numbers are much grimmer for African-American and Latino students who graduate at a rate of less than 66%. There are school districts in Pennsylvania where less than half of the students who begin ninth grade will receive a high school diploma. Not only will high school dropouts earn less money over their lifetimes but will also have fewer opportunities to succeed in a career. In fact, a dropout will earn about $10,000 less in average annual income than a high school graduate and almost $20,000 less than the student who gets a two-year Associates Degree in college. Obviously, not all high school drop outs go on to break the law, but 82% of prison inmates are high school drop outs. High school dropouts impact all of us and not just themselves. A recent study showed that if the students who dropped out of the class of 2009 had graduated, the nation would have benefited from nearly $335 billion over the course of their lifetimes. Monday's Radio Smart Talk will feature Nathan Mains, the president and state director of Communities in Schools of Pennsylvania. Communities in Schools is the nation's largest dropout prevention organization. We'll discuss who drops out and what strategies work to keep kids in school.

Radio Smart Talk 05/10/2013 The craft beer craze

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 10 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The headline Thursday read HARRISBURG CITY ISLANDERS HOST FIRST CRAFT BEER FEST. The idea behind the promotion the city's professional soccer team is holding is obviously to attract fans who also would enjoy craft beers. The Islanders like many others realize more and more people are drinking craft beers. Sales of craft beers have increased by 10-15% each year for much of the past decade. At the same time, large brewers' sales are flat. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll take a look at what's behind the rising popularity of craft beers.

Radio Smart Talk 05/09/2013 Kids TV, education, and STEM

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 9 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

William Isler, the CEO of the Fred Rogers Company and Dorothea Gillim, the Executive Producer of the children's TV program Curious George and creator of WordGirl, will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss educational media, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). Fred Rogers, the star of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, was an icon on children's TV. His legacy continues today with the Fred Rogers Company that advances Rogers' values and philosophy through a variety of media projects that support children, parents, and professionals. Both Curious George and WordGirl are unique programs. WordGirl is a superhero from the planet Lexicon that teaches her viewers about words and increases their understanding of vocabulary in the process. Curious George is particularly important today. As we hear stories about how American students are falling behind the rest of the world in science and math, Curious George encourages his pre-school viewers to learn about the STEM concepts.

Radio Smart Talk 05/08/2013 Stroke -- what you need to know

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 8 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

There are certain illnesses, diseases, and medical conditions that get more attention than others. Stroke is not one of them, even though it is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. More than 133,000 Americans die of stroke each year. May is Stroke Awareness Month -- a time designated to help people learn more about stroke. It is not overstating the case to say that what Americans don't know about stroke can lead to their deaths or disabilities. Many don't know that women especially are at risk for stroke. According to the National Stroke Association, fifty-five thousand more women than men have a stroke each year. Women are almost twice as likely to die from stroke than breast cancer. African-Americans are twice as likely to suffer a stroke than whites. Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on the causes of stroke and what can be done to prevent strokes. Appearing on the program will be Dr. Raymond Reichwein, co-director of Penn State Hershey's Stroke Center.

Radio Smart Talk 05/07/2013 SEC charges Harrisburg with misleading investors; cyberbullying

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 7 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is accusing the City of Harrisburg of fraud for misleading bond investors. The SEC says Harrisburg made misleading statements in a budget report, financial statements, and a "state-of-the-city" address. According to a release from the SEC, most of the violations occurred during the administration of former Mayor Stephen Reed. It is the first time a municipality has been charged with fraud for misleading investors. On Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, Tara Leo Auchey of Today's the Day Harrisburg will provide context of what happened and of a reported settlement between the city and SEC. Also, witf's Pushed Around project on bullying continues with a focus on cyber bullying. Cyber bullying is defined as utilizing technology to repeatedly post hurtful comments, photos, rumors, or threats on social networks or through emails and text messages. The mental anguish can be just as great for the targets of cyber bullying than it is of those who are victimized by traditional bullying. Appearing on the program will be Craig LeCadre, Senior Supervisory Special Agent in Education and Outreach with the Bureau of Special Investigations at the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office and Mike Bookser, Emergency Planning and Response Management Coordinator with the Center for Safe Schools.

Radio Smart Talk 05/06/2013 What's the Constitution mean to you?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 6 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Does the Constitution have what it takes to keep up with modern America? Peter Sagal, host of NPR's Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me hit the road to find out. Sagal traveled across the country by motorcycle in search of where the U.S. Constitution lives, how it works and how it doesn't... how it unites us as a nation and how it has nearly torn us apart. The four-part series, CONSTITUTION USA, premieres May 7 at 9 p.m. on witf-TV. Stephen Ives, director of Constitution USA appears on the first segment of Monday's Radio Smart Talk to tell us more about the film. Then we'll be joined by Dr. Richard Beeman, a trustee of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia to discuss the document itself and what it does or doesn't do and what it means to Americans. That's a question we'll pose to the audience as well -- what does the U.S. Constitution mean to you? Another question -- if you could enact a 28th Amendment to the Constitution, what would it be?

Radio Smart Talk 05/03/2013 Let the gardening begin!

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 3 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Are you ready to get the hands dirty and dig? Friday's Radio Smart Talk is typically one of the most popular programs of the year. Erica Jo Shaffer, the nursery manager at Highland Gardens in Camp Hill joins us to answer all your questions about gardening, planting, and maintaining your flowers, plants, and trees. The early bloomers were a little later than usual this year in Central Pennsylvania due to the colder temperatures that seemed to hang on longer. But the last two weeks has seen spring in all its glory punctuated by the perennials that came up and brought the color back after a gray winter. Early May is a good time to think about annual flowers, vegetable gardens, trees, shrubs, and your lawn. Pests that can take a toll on your plants are also starting to get rejuvenated too so you may need to think about your strategies for dealing with them as well. Do you have a question for Ms. Shaffer? Send us a photograph of your colorful flowers, plants, or trees and we'll post them on our website!

Radio Smart Talk 05/02/2013 Journalists on PA jobs, liquor, Medicaid

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thur, 2 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

New unemployment and jobs statistics this week spawned a remark from Gov. Tom Corbett that has turned into a full-fledged political controversy. Appearing on the Ask the Governor program that is produced by witf's Radio Pennsylvania network, Gov. Corbett explained that a report from Arizona State University ranking Pennsylvania 49th nationally in job growth for the month of March was misleading. Corbett described Pennsylvania as weathering the recession better than other states so those states had room to add more jobs. New jobless statistics also indicate the state's unemployment rate was at 7.9% in March compared to the 7.6% national figure. When discussing the unemployment situation, Gov. Corbett added that many employers can't find workers who can pass a drug test. Corbett's political opponents and others jumped on the remark saying the governor was blaming the unemployed for not being able to get a job. It's one of the topics we'll discuss on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk with three State Capitol reporters -- witf's Mary Wilson, Radio PA's Matt Paul and Pete DeCoursey of Capitolwire. Other issues to be addressed include Corbett's plan to privatize liquor sales, Medicaid expansion, and transportation infrastructure funding.

Radio Smart Talk 05/01/2013 CSI and real forensics and a call for improved forensics

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 1 May 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Prime-time crime dramas are a staple of network TV. Along with reality and talent shows like American Idol, programs such as Law and Order, NCIS, and CSI have dominated the ratings for much of the past decade. Those shows follow a similar formula. A crime is committed and detectives or investigators show up at the crime scene to collect evidence. That evidence usually goes to a laboratory where a forensic scientist or crime scene investigator uses glitzy, modern equipment and technology to help solve the crime. DNA evidence is part of almost every episode. But how close are those shows to reality? Not much according to Professor Samuel Morgan of Central Penn College, who will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk. Morgan says many students show up at college looking to make a career out of forensics based on what they've seen on TV and are surprised that it's not the same. He'll explain on Radio Smart Talk. Also, forensics may appear to be infallible on TV but in reality there are many problems with the nation's crime labs. Marvin Schecter is a defense attorney in New York who was one of the authors of the 2009 report "Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward." Schecter joins us as well.

Radio Smart Talk 04/30/2013 Autism Awareness Month

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 30 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

April is Autism Awareness Month. Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. Autism is being diagnosed more often today as society, educators, and the medical community learn more about it. The Centers for Disease Control reports that one in 88 babies born have some form of autism. That works out to about 1% of children ages 3-17. What causes autism is still unknown. Researchers often investigate the role of genetics and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention are two of the important keys to better outcomes for those living with autism and their families. Apprearing on Tuesday's program will be Joelle Scholl of the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training collaborative (ASERT) and Georgia Rackley, past president of the Autism Society of Greater Harrisburg.

Radio Smart Talk 04/29/2013 Alcohol Awareness Month

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 29 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Did you have an alcoholic drink this weekend? Most Americans did. A Gallup poll conducted late last summer indicates that two-thirds of Americans consume alcohol. Some are what are referred to as social drinkers who drink only on special occasions or very rarely. But others drink a whole lot more. Of the Americans who say they drink, 52% said they had one-to-seven drinks in the seven days before they were polled. Then there are the problem drinkers or alcoholics. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence defines alcoholism as, "Alcoholism is a primary chronic disease with genetic, psychosocial and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. The disease is often progressive and fatal. It is characterized by impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with the drug alcohol, use of alcohol despite adverse consequences, and distortions in thinking, mostly denial. Each of these symptoms may be continuous or periodic." April is Alcohol Awareness Month, sponsored by the NCADD and designed to increase awareness and understanding aimed at reducing the stigma associated with alcoholism that prevents individuals and families from seeking help. To address the issue on Monday's Radio Smart Talk will be Deb Beck, President of the Drug and Alcohol Service Providers Organization of Pennsylvania (DASPOP). Ms. Beck is also affiliated with a number of drug and alcohol treatment and prevention organizations and Jennifer Storm, who is recovering from alcohol and drug dependency and author of The Blackout Girl and other books.

Radio Smart Talk 04/26/2013 PA municipalities face Money challenges

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 26 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

It's estimated that pension plans for Pennsylvania state workers and school employees are underfunded by about $41 billion. Those pensions have garnered much attention from Gov. Tom Corbett and state lawmakers the last few months. What hasn't gotten as much notice is the underfunded pension plans for retired municipal workers in Pennsylvania. They total about $6.6 billion. Pennsylvania has almost 2,600 municipalities and more than 3,200 local government pension plans -- about a quarter of all such plans in the nation. The Pennsylvania Economy League reports 41% of all the state's population live in municipalities that are financially distressed. As a result, the pension crisis is just one of several challenges municipalities are facing. Cities, boroughs, and townships say they are all dealing with issues such as arbitration awards and unfunded mandates as well. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll hear from Lancaster Mayor Rick Gray, Chambersburg Borough Manager Jeffrey Stonehill, and Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce and Industry President and CEO Ellen Horan. They're all part of the organization Coalition for Sustainable Communities.

Radio Smart Talk 04/25/2013 Pushed Around project on bullying -- bullying based on sexual orientation

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 25 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Recent polls have found that a little more than half of Pennsylvanians support same-sex marriage. Most of the same surveys indicated only about a third favored it five to seven years ago. It's a trend that is consistent with what Americans are saying nationally. For those in the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender communities, that acceptance is a reason for optimism. That's why it is so striking to see the statistics on bullying based on sexual orientation. According to statistics compiled by the Hazelden Foundation, about 93% of teenagers hear derogatory words about sexual orientation at least once in a while. Often, that takes the form of one teen calling another one gay or referring to something as gay, and they don't mean it in a positive way. Meanwhile, 78% of gay or believed to be gay teenagers are teased or bullied in their schools and communities -- figures much higher than for heterosexual teens. One-fifth of LGBT students have stayed home from school in the last month for safety concerns. witf's Pushed Around project on bullying continues on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk with a discussion on bullying based on one's perceived sexual orientation. Appearing on the program will be Jesse Gantt, Founder and CEO of The Foundation for Hope and Louis Marven, Director of Education and Youth Services at the LGBT Center Coalition of Central PA in Harrisburg.

Radio Smart Talk 04/25/2013 Pushed Around project on bullying -- bullying based on sexual orientation

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 25 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

ecent polls have found that a little more than half of Pennsylvanians support same-sex marriage. Most of the same surveys indicated only about a third favored it five to seven years ago. It's a trend that is consistent with what Americans are saying nationally. For those in the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender communities, that acceptance is a reason for optimism. That's why it is so striking to see the statistics on bullying based on sexual orientation. According to statistics compiled by the Hazelden Foundation, about 93% of teenagers hear derogatory words about sexual orientation at least once in a while. Often, that takes the form of one teen calling another one gay or referring to something as gay, and they don't mean it in a positive way. Meanwhile, 78% of gay or believed to be gay teenagers are teased or bullied in their schools and communities -- figures much higher than for heterosexual teens. One-fifth of LGBT students have stayed home from school in the last month for safety concerns. witf's Pushed Around project on bullying continues on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk with a discussion on bullying based on one's perceived sexual orientation. Appearing on the program will be Jesse Gantt, Founder and CEO of The Foundation for Hope and Louis Marven, Director of Education and Youth Services at the LGBT Center Coalition of Central PA in Harrisburg.

Radio Smart Talk 04/24/2013 Law 101

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 24 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Law Week will be observed throughout the country in the next few weeks. It's a time devoted to educating the public and making them aware of the law and our legal system. Many people's knowledge of a courtroom comes from what they see portrayed on television dramas. That is unless a person actually has an experience with the legal system as a plaintiff, defendant, juror or witness. Often, everyone else doesn't pay attention unless there's a high profile case. After 19-year-old Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was arrested last Friday and charged with the Boston Marathon bombings, there was some discussion of whether he would be given the famous Miranda rights against self-incrimination. Most people assumed every criminal suspect was told that he or she has the right to stay silent and a right to an attorney. The question was whether Tsarnaev would be charged as an enemy combatant or as a civilian. The decision was finally made to charge him in a civilian court. It was a prime example of what most people don't know about the law, but it's one of many. As part of Dauphin County's upcoming Law Week April 29-May 3, attorneys Peg Simok, of Cognetti and Associates and Ed Spreha, of Mancke, Wagner and Spreha will appear on Radio Smart Talk to answer questions about navigating the courts and the law.

Radio Smart Talk 04/23/2013 Changing behavior for good health; Boston stories

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 23 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Most of us know what we're supposed to do to live healthier -- eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid fats, exercise or get more physical activity, don't stay in the sun for long periods of time without protection. Those are just a few of the rules to live by to maintain a healthier lifestyle. But how many of us actually follow those rules? Even with the knowledge of what's accepted as working, why is it so difficult to behave in a way that's better for our bodies and reduces the possibilities of illness or disease? As part of witf's on-going Transforming Health initiative, Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk examines health behavior. Appearing on the program will be Pinnacle Health's Medical Director Dr. Joseph Cincotta and Dr. Karen Glanz, Director of the Center for Health Behavior Research at the Perelman School of Medicine and School of Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania. Also, a week after the Boston Marathon bombings, we continue to hear stories from the survivors and witnesses. Tuesday's program will feature a few people with Central Pennsylvania connections.

Radio Smart Talk 04/22/2013 Earth Day -- the benefits of trees, especially in urban areas

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 22 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

April 22 is Earth Day, a day designed to bring attention to the to protect the planet's environment. Many Earth Day observances and activities are occurring over the weekend and many more are scheduled for Monday. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, we will focus on one of the most basic elements of the environment -- trees and the benefits they provide, especially in urban areas. We may take trees for granted but without them, the world would be a much more polluted, dangerous, unhealthy, and unpleasant place. For example, trees clean the air, provide oxygen, cool streets and homes, conserve energy and save water. A number of programs have been developed over the past few decades to make trees a large part of a cleaner, healthier environment. Trees have been planted strategically in thousands of rural locations throughout the country. But there also are organized efforts to plant and grow trees in cities where they may even have a greater impact. Joining us on Monday's show will be Christine Ticehurst, Administrator of the TreeVitalize program with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Rachel Reyna, Chief of DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry and Community Forestry Section and Michael Leff, of the Davey Institute, USDA Forest Service, Philadelphia Field Station.

Radio Smart Talk 04/19/2013 program pre-empted

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk)

Friday, April 19 show was pre-empted for breaking news coverage of Boston Marathon Bomber updates.

Radio Smart Talk 04/18/2013 Prescription drug abuse growing

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 18 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The Centers for Disease Control report that more than 38,000 people died from drug overdoses in 2010 -- the last year for which statistics are available. It was the 11th straight year that the number of overdose deaths increased. The CDC report also found that the majority of overdose deaths -- about 60% -- were from prescription drugs. Abuse of prescription medications is a growing problem. Three classifications of drugs are being misused most often -- painkillers, depressants to treat anxiety disorders, and stimulants used as a medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In fact, 44% of the overdose deaths attributed to prescription drugs were linked to painkillers like OxyContin and Vicodin. Law enforcement is challenged to detect prescription drug abuse or criminals who sell the drugs illegally. That's because many times the medications are in the family medicine cabinet or users shop for doctors to write the prescriptions. Steps are taken to track prescriptions. In Pennsylvania, legislation has been proposed to set up a database of prescriptions written, but critics worry that the personal information of patients could become available to more people. Appearing on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to provide information on the misuse of prescriptions drugs will be Craig LeCadre, Senior Supervisory Special Agent of Education and Outreach in Bureau of Special Investigations with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.

Radio Smart Talk 04/17/2013 North Korea; NRA sponsors outdoors show

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 17 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The threats against the United States and South Korea by North Korea in recent weeks would be considered bizarre and outlandish if the consequences weren't so dangerous. North Korea's new leader Kim Jong Un has threatened the U.S. and South Korea with nuclear anniliation. The North's aggressive posture is basically unprovoked. There is speculation that the North's threats are meant to drum up nationalism and support for the new leader or to force concessions in the form of food or money from the West. Others have suggested Kim Jong Un is mentally unstable, which makes him even more unpredictable and dangerous. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll hear from two people who have spent years in South Korea -- Col. Richard Lacquement, Dean of the U.S. Army War College's School of Strategic Landpower and Rev. Song Kang, pastor of the Harrisburg Korean Presbyterian Church in Cumberland County. Also, word came Tuesday that the National Rifle Association is the sponsor of a new outdoors show in Harrisburg. The Great American Outdoor Show replaces the Eastern Sports and Outdoors Show and will be held February 1-9, 2014 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center. The Eastern show was canceled last February after the promoters decided to ban military style semi-automatic assault rifles in response to the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. More than 200 exhibitors pulled out in protest. NRA president David Keene was in Harrisburg for the announcement. We interviewed him about the outdoor event and gun policy as part of our on-going conversation about guns.

Radio Smart Talk 04/16/2013 Sexual Assault Awareness Month

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 16 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Marilyn Van Derbur was Miss America in 1958. Ms. Van Derbur came from a well known and highly respected family in Denver, Colorado. For years after winning her title, she appeared on numerous television programs and became one of the nation's best known and most requested speakers. But Marilyn Van Derbur had a secret -- one that she didn't reveal publicly for decades. She had been sexually violated by her father from the time she was five years old until she was 18. In her best-selling book -- Miss America by Day -- Van Derbur describes how the sexual abuse affected almost every facet of her life both physically and mentally. As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Marilyn Van Derbur appears on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss her life and sexual abuse. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is designed to bring attention to and promote a discussion on sexual assault. Also joining the conversation will be Laura Palumbo, Prevention Campaign Specialist with the National Sexual Violence Resource Center; Kristen Houser, Vice President of Communications and Development with the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape; and Jennifer Storm, the Executive Director of the Dauphin County Victim/Witness Assistance Program, author of three books and a rape survivor.

Radio Smart Talk 04/15/2013 Rotary club service; City of Harrisburg status report

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 15 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

With Pennsylvania's primary looming in May, the race for mayor of the city of Harrisburg is attracting more attention than usual for a municipal election. Even those who don't live or vote in the city are interested in the campaign. Incumbent Democrat Linda Thompson is being challenged by three other candidates in the primary -- Lewis Butts, Dan Miller, and Eric Papenfuse. Nevin Mindlin is running as an Independent. The numerous controversies surrounding Thompson is one reason the race is being watched, but Harrisburg's many financial difficulties is another. Just last week, the Patriot-News reported the city and Harrisburg Authority would miss another payment on bond debt for the city's trash-burning incinerator. Tara Leo Auchey of Today's the Day Harrisburg and the Patriot-News will provide an update on the city on Monday's Radio Smart Talk. Also, local Rotary clubs are about to mark 100 years of service to Central Pennsylvania. We'll hear from two Rotary officials about their mission of Service Over Self. You may be surprised at how much service Rotary clubs perform across the region and around the world.

Radio Smart Talk 04/12/2013 encore: The changing media landscape

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 12 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

On April 12, we will be re-airing a show from February 18 on the changing media landscape. Please note that we will not be taking calls during this show, as it is not live. There's a revolution going on in the media right now. Specifically, what's changing is how Americans get their news. The days of the daily newspaper, the evening TV newscasts, and local radio stations being the main sources for news are over and probably never coming back. Central Pennsylvania is a prime example. The Patriot-News of Harrisburg has three print editions each week, but offers content 24/7 on-line, local TV stations no longer have newscasts at just 6 and 11 in the evening but have expanded to many dayparts to capture an audience whose lifestyles and viewing habits are changing, and witf is one of the few local radio stations that produce newscasts that are more than just headlines. Technology has changed the game. More news consumers are getting their news digitally than read print newspapers or listen to news on radio. That's according to a study from the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press that also said digital news consumption is catching up to TV as the prime source for news. How did we get here and what does the future hold for news? Those are questions we posed during this program. Appearing on the show aree NPR media correspondent David Folkenflik, Sara Glines, publisher of the York Daily Record, York Dispatch, Lebanon Daily News, Evening Sun of Hanover, and Public Opinion of Chambersburg, and Ernest Schreiber, Executive Editor of the Lancaster Intelligencer Journal, New Era, and Sunday News.

Radio Smart Talk 04/11/2013 encore: Diane Rehm

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 11 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

On April 11, we will be re-airing a show from March 14 on Diane Rehm. Please note that we will not be taking calls during this show, as it is not live. The Diane Rehm Show has more than 2.4 million listeners each week on public radio stations across the country, including witf. However, numbers alone don't tell the stories of Diane Rehm and one of the nation's most successful talk shows. Rehm visited the witf Public Media Center studios to describe her journey from assistant producer at WAMU in Washington D.C. to hosting a national radio program. Along the way, Rehm has won a Personal Peabody Award, which is considered one of the most prestigious awards in broadcasting, written three books, and interviewed some of the most interesting people in the world. Rehm became the first radio talk show host to interview a sitting president in the Oval Office when she sat down with President Bill Clinton at the White House in 2000. Of course, the Diane Rehm Show is unique in other ways. Probably the most noticeable is Diane's voice. In 1998, her career almost ended when she was diagnosed with spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological voice disorder that causes strained, difficult speech. Rehm has brought attention to the condition and addresses it on Friday's show. Diane Rehm's appearance in Central Pennsylvania is supported by Roof Advisory Group, Investment and Financial Planning Services.

Radio Smart Talk 04/10/2013 encore: The Civil War in Pennsylvania -- A Photographic History

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 10 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

On April 10, we will be re-airing a show from January 22 on Civil War photography. Please note that we will not be taking calls during today's show, as it is not live. "Pennsylvania sent some 337,963 men to preserve the union...33,183 would perish in this conflict." Those statistics are taken from Chapter One of the new book The Civil War in Pennsylvania -- A Photographic History, published as a collaboration between the Senator John Heinz History Center for Pennsylvania Civil War 150 and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. However, the numbers are just a small part of the book. It describes Pennsylvania's role in the many factors that mark the period including the battles themselves, slavery, politics, equipment and supplies and even Pennsylvanians who fought for the Confederacy. The Civil War in Pennsylvania is also noteworthy for the photographs it contains -- some of which have never been published before. The Battle of Gettysburg may be the most significant event during the Civil War in Pennsylvania but as the book shows, it is far from the only part of the state's history on the 1850s and 1860s. The book's three authors -- Michael G. Kraus, David M. Neville, and Kenneth C. Turner appear on this episode to discuss Pennsylvania and the Civil War.

Radio Smart Talk 04/09/2013 State Museum marks Gettysburg 150th

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 9 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg is fast approaching. Scores of visitors relive Civil War history by walking along the battlefields in Adams County each summer, and a record number of tourists is expected to flock to the region this year to mark the sesquicentennial. But history buffs can get a jump start on commemorating the battle this month, when a new exhibit opens at The State Museum of Pennsylvania. As part of the "Objects of Valor" exhibit, visitors can see Peter Frederick Rothermel's expansive painting of Pickett's Charge, when Union forces effectively stopped the Confederate army from advancing any further in Pennsylvania. They can also get an up-close look at rare artifacts the public hasn’t seen in decades, including General George Meade’s chair and a musket belonging to the oldest soldier to fight at Gettysburg. On Radio Smart Talk, we’ll hear from Museum Director David Dunn and Curatorial Supervisor Brad Smith, about how the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission put together such a vast collection of Civil War relics. We’ll also delve into the importance of the battle to the region, and why it continues to fascinate Pennsylvanians 150 years after taking place.

Radio Smart Talk 04/08/2013 Tax questions; Midstate college student takes Glamour's top prize

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 8 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

April 15 is one of most recognizable dates on each year's calendar. But unlike the other noteworthy dates of the year, it's not a holiday and in fact is a date that many Americans dread. Income taxes on the federal, state, and local levels are due next Monday -- April 15. Most taxpayers have already filed their returns and many have received tax refunds. However, the Internal Revenue Service reports one in five Americans will wait until the last week to file a return. Often the late filers have waited because they owe the government money. That's not the explanation for everyone though. Let's face it -- there are those who prefer to wait until the last few days or last minute to take on any significant task. Appearing on Radio Smart Talk will be professionals from the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants to answer your questions about 2012 income taxes. Even if you've already filed, there still are questions to be answered that could save money next year. Do you have any questions aboiut your income taxes? We'll also hear from Noorjahan Akbar, a Dickinson College student who's been named the grand prize winner of Glamour's 2013 Top U.S. College Woman program for her work to promote gender equality in Afghanistan. Akbar's led the first march against street harassment in Afghanistan's history, and also helped create an all-women's Internet cafe.

Radio Smart Talk 04/05/2013 Meditation and the heart; wood baseball bats made in Hummelstown

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 5 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Friday's Radio Smart Talk provides an opportunity to wind down after a stressful week. First, we'll hear from Susanna Bair and you'll hear the word "heart" often. Ms. Bair is author of the book Living from the Heart, co-founder of Heart Rhythm Meditation and a blogger for the Huffington Post. She has been featured nationally in a number of different media, including NPR. Susanna Bair is bringing her "Invincible Heart" tour to Hershey this weekend to "teach locals how to become vibrantly alive and emotionally resilient, through accessing and living from the heart." We'll find out what that means. Also, the temperatures may not say so but spring is in the air. How do we know? Baseball season started on the Major League level and for the Eastern League's Harrisburg Senators Thursday night. Nothing says warm weather like the sound of a baseball bat hitting a ball, especially a bat made from wood. There aren't many wood bat manufacturers around the country but there is one right in our back yard -- DS Wood Bats in Hummelstown. Brothers Richie and Ryan Schwartz will appear on the program to describe how bats are made and their unique business.

Radio Smart Talk 04/04/2013 Transportation Secretary Barry Schoch

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 4 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania's Secretary of Transportation Barry Schoch will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the state's transportation needs. Let's face it -- the list is long. For years, we've been told the state is heading toward a transportation infrastructure crisis. Pennsylvania has more than four thousand structurally deficient bridges and miles of roadways that are crumbling. The issue has always been there isn't enough money to fix the problem. Past studies have shown about $2 billion is needed each year to upgrade, modernize, repair, or maintain the state's highways and keep other forms of transportation running. The legislature enacted Act 44 several years ago to solve the funding crisis. Tolls on Interstate 80 in northern Pennsylvania as well as annual contributions from the Pennsylvania Turnpike would generate revenue. Instead, the federal government said tolls from I-80 couldn't be applied to anything other than maintaining that highway and the Turnpike has gone into debt to pay its share -- which was well short of what was needed. Finally in February Gov. Tom Corbett proposed a plan that would result in $1.8 billion each year by lifting the cap on the state's oil company franchise tax. That plan hasn't made it through the legislature and several lawmakers from both political parties have indicated they think the state requires more money than what the governor's proposal would bring in. In fact, the Governor's Transportation Advisory Commission made recommendations in 2011 to raise $2.7 billion each year. We'll discuss funding with Sec. Schoch as well as rail transportation and mass transit.

Radio Smart Talk 04/03/2013 Open records in PA

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 3 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The Office of Open Records opened its doors in 2009 as a self-described quasi-judicial, independent agency. Its responsibility was to decide whether a local or state government record was a public record. The office was created during a wave of government reform efforts -- some were successful and others that weren't. One of the most significant changes in Pennsylvania law was records were considered to be open to the public unless the government agency could prove they weren't. That was completely opposite from before when the onus was on the person requesting the records to prove they should be made available to the public. If one goes by the numbers, the Office of Open Records has been very successful. In 2012, 2,188 appeals of denied records were filed with the Office compared to 1,159 in 2009. That's an 89% increase. However, there is concern that 31% of the appeals came from prison inmates. Only 4% were from the media. Nathan Byerly, the Deputy Director of the Office of Open Records will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk. Pennsylvanians can contact the office by calling 717-346-9903.

Radio Smart Talk 04/02/2013 Women and men pay gap

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 2 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

There is no disputing the fact that men earn more money than women. However, that may be where the agreement ends. The statistic most often quoted is that women earn 77 cents for every dollar a man makes. That number was quoted by President Obama in his State-of-the-Union Address when he urged Congress to approve the Paycheck Fairness Act. The 77 cent number was compiled from the 2010 U.S. Census that compared the median pay of men and women. At the same time, the Institute for Women's Policy Research concluded that full-time working women were paid at a rate of 82.2% of what men earned. The real question is why this gender pay gap exists. Some have suggested that women choose careers that don't pay as much as men or that women don't work as many hours as men because of family obligations. Still, others say it is flat-out discrimination that men are paid more. The real question then is are women earning less when working in the same jobs and hours as men? Appearing on the program will be Maureen Powers, CEO of the YWCA in Lancaster and Dr. Heather Odle-Dusseau, an assistant professor of Management at Gettysburg College.

Radio Smart Talk 04/01/2013 Pushed Around -- what to do if a child is bullied and if a child is the bully

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 1 April 2013 12:30:00 -0400

witf's Pushed Around project on bullying continues on Monday's Radio Smart Talk with two of the most basic but maybe most important questions of all when it comes to bullying. Parents throughout time have dealt with the first -- what to do if your child is bullied. Experts say one of the most significant steps is to recognize when a child is being bullied. It may not be simple because most kids don't go to their parents and tell them they're being picked on or called names. Most often parents have to look for certain signs and behaviors like avoiding school or particular situations. Monday's program will provide some ideas on how to tell if a child is being bullied and steps to take after determining the child is a victim of a bully. The second question focuses on what many parents don't want to admit -- whether their child is a bully. Again, the question arises -- how can you tell and then what should you do if you find out your son or daughter is bullying other children? Dr. Stacy Molnar-Main of the Center for Safe Schools will be our guest.

Radio Smart Talk 03/29/2013 Welfare Secretary Bev MacKereth

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 29 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Gov. Tom Corbett will be meeting soon with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius. The session could impact the futures of thousands of uninsured Pennsylvanians who may be eligible for Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Up until now, the governor has rejected expanding Medicaid because he believes it may cost Pennsylvania taxpayers more money in the long run. That's even though the federal government pledges to pay 100% of the expansion for the first three years and 90% after that. Corbett has indicated he doesn't have confidence in the federal government's commitment and he doesn't believe he has gotten all his questions answered from Washington. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, acting Secretary of the Department of Public Welfare Bev MacKereth will address Medicaid expansion and a host of other topics. Sec. MacKereth will also discuss Gov. Corbett's proposal to increase funding for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, older Pennsylvanians and child care. Critics point out many of those services have been cut in prior Corbett budgets. Legislation has been introduced to change the name of DPW to the Department of Human Services because the title best fits the role of the agency. Sec. MacKereth has been quoted as saying the move would cost $8 million in a tight budget.

Radio Smart Talk 03/28/2013 Stink bugs on the move; Lancaster County home to U.S. field hockey team

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 28 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

How many people have you heard exclaim, "Oh, the stink bugs are so bad this year!" Maybe you're one of them. Even though the winter has been cold, the brown marmorated stink bug has found its way into many homes the last few months. The bad news is it could get worse. The invasive species prefers warmer weather so when normal spring temperatures arrive in Central Pennsylvania, we could see more stink bugs in our homes. The pest isn't a danger in homes, other than their unpleasant odor. That's not the case with fruit trees that can be devastated by stink bugs. On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll learn more about the brown marmorated stink bug and what to expect from Steve Jacobs, an urban entomologist at Penn State University. Also, Lancaster County is becoming the home base for USA Field Hockey. The U.S. Women's National Team will make their home at the Spooky Nook Sports Complex later this year. Pennsylvania and its surrounding states are hotbeds for women's field hockey. In fact, most of the players who competed in the Summer Olympics in London last year are from the Northeast, including Pennsylvania. When completed, Spooky Nook will be the largest indoor sports complex in the world and will offer facilities for a number of sports. National and international field hockey tournaments will be held at Spooky Nook in the future. Joining us on Thursday's program will be Steve Locke, Executive Director of USA Field Hockey, Ben Halvorsen, director of marketing, Spooky Nook Sports, and USA Field Hockey player Katie Reinprecht, a native of Perkasie, Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 03/27/2013 Big changes for PA prisons

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 27 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

After decades of increasing prison populations, the Corbett Administration expects a drop in the number of inmates being housed in state correctional institutions over the next three to five years. As a result, the Administration announced in January that it was closing prisons in Cresson and Greensburg. The Administration estimates the closures would save $35 million a year. That comes on the heels of decisions to scrap plans to build a new prison and not reopen another one. There still are 51,000 inmates in the state corrections system which is designed for 48,000. Increasingly, only the most violent and serious offenders are being sent to state prisons. Those arrested for non-violent crimes are often being held in non-prison settings. Meanwhile, halfway houses -- facilities where inmates are typically sent near the end of their sentences -- have come under intense scrutiny. A study that is being lauded across the country found that Pennsylvania inmates who spent time at halfway houses were more likely to recidivate -- be arrested or re-incarcerated -- than inmates released directly from prison. Overall, six in ten inmates recidivate within three years of being released. For inmates at halfway houses, the recidivism rate was nearly 67%. Consequently, the Corbett Administration told the private operators of halfway houses they would be paid based on outcomes rather than the number of inmates being held. Pennsylvania's Secretary of Corrections John Wetzel appears on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to explain.

Radio Smart Talk 03/26/2013 School Safety

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 26 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

One of the safest places for children is at school. School violence has been declining since 1990. The Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice indicates that during the 2008/2009 school year, 83% of the nation's schools reported no serious violent crime. On the other hand, there have been at least six mass shootings at schools (not including college campuses) since 1989, including the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut last December where 20 children were shot and killed. The Sandy Hook shooting resurrected the national debate on guns. It's a discussion that continues and probably won't subside for some time. What Sandy Hook also did was shine a spotlight on school safety. Many educators and schools across the country have re-examined their policies and security to guard against a similar incident. Some have gone as far as and still others are discussing putting armed guards in schools or arming teachers. Our guests will be Donald Smith, Emergency Planning and Response Management Coordinator with the Center for Safe Schools, Dr. Don Bell, superintendent of the Northern Lebanon School District, and state Rep. Mike Regan (R-York), who has introduced a bill to allow armed retired police officers in schools for security.

Radio Smart Talk 03/25/2013 Are there enough primary care doctors in PA?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 25 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

In recent years, there's been a lot of talk about doctor shortages in the United States, especially when it comes to primary care physicians. A study released earlier this year by the U.S. Senate reports the nation is currently short by about 16,000 primary care doctors. It warns that figure could grow to 52,000 by 2025 if no action is taken. How is the situation shaping up in the Keystone state? The Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians says existing primary care doctors are highly accessible in the commonwealth, and many are even accepting new patients. The group's new report suggests Pennsylvanians who actively seek primary care should be able to obtain it because many family doctors accept patients regardless of their ability to pay. As part of witf's ongoing Transforming Health project, Radio Smart Talk will look at the state of primary care in Pennsylvania, including the growing number of responsibilities placed on family physicians, how the Affordable Care Act affects these doctors, and how medical schools are addressing the growing demand for primary care physicians. We’ll hear from Dr. Doug Spotts, vice president of the Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians, and Dr. C. Richard Schott, president of the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

Radio Smart Talk 03/22/2013 Pushed Around -- Women's pay in Lancaster County; tech workers; Ernesto Tamayo concert

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 22 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Throughout the country, women earn less than men in most sectors of the workforce. However, a recent national report ranked a Central Pennsylvania county near the bottom in the comparisons between earnings for men and women. The website 24/7 Wall Street reported that the third widest disparity in pay between men and women nationally is in Lancaster County. Median pay for women in the county in 2011 was $32,446 compared to $47,318 for men. That comes out to women being paid 68.6% of what men are earning. The difference in pay was only larger in two Utah cities. The disparity was the smallest in Los Angeles where women make more than 91% of men's earnings. Why is the difference so big in Lancaster County? That's a question we'll pose to Scott Sheely, the executive director of the Lancaster County Workforce Investment Board on Friday's program. Sheely also has some strong opinions on the so-called "middle skill" jobs of the future. He wonders whether enough young people are getting the training they need to become electricians, registered nurses, sales representatives, or welders. He'll explain on Friday's program. Also, world renowned performer, recording artist, teacher, and musical influence, Ernesto Tamayo has been diagnosed with brain cancer. Tamayo is also founder of the Lancaster Guitar Festival. This year’s festival has morphed into one night of guitar music to honor Mr. Tamayo, featuring a number of accomplished guitarists Saturday night at 7:30 at the Ware Center in Lancaster. we'll learn more on Friday's program.

Radio Smart Talk 03/21/2013 Pushed Around -- witf's project on bullying

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 21 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

In many people's eyes, being picked on physically, teased verbally, or harassed is a rite of passage -- part of being young. Some have said, "We all go through it." What it is is bullying and just because many people have experienced it doesn't make it right or acceptable. In fact, research shows that bullying can have devastating effects on children and adults -- some that may last a lifetime. There are too many stories about young people who have responded to constant bullying by resorting to violence or suicide. How prevalent is bullying? Every day, about 160,000 children stay home from school because they don't want to be bullied. Who are they and how can they be helped? Those are a few of the questions witf will address in its Pushed Around project on bullying. We will focus on signs of bullying, approaches for stopping bullying, the psychology behind bullying, and personal stories of local people impacted by bullying, among other topics. Thursday's Radio Smart Talk will serve as a primer for the issue. Appearing to provide background on bullying will be Margueruite Ferrara, a health educator at the Susan P. Byrnes Health Education Center in York and Stacy Molnar-Main, a bullying prevention expert who is certified as a school psychologist, counselor and principal. She serves as Strategic Initiatives Manager at the Center for Safe Schools. Pushed Around is supported by Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital.

Radio Smart Talk 03/20/2013 Civility in public discourse; chronic wasting disease

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 20 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

A Gallup poll conducted last December found almost seven in ten Americans said the nation is divided on its core values. Those results probably didn't surprise many people who hear the loud, heated arguments on the issues of the day and conclude shrill is what characterizes most public debate. Whether it was the stand-off in Washington over raising the nation's debt ceiling two-and-a-half years ago, the fiscal cliff debate late last year, or the federal budget sequester last month, Democrats and Republicans in Congress and in the White House apparently can't or won't compromise and sometimes don't even appear to be interested in finding solutions to problems. The disagreements often seem personal too, marked by one side or the other demonizing the other and resorting to name calling. Allegheny College in Meadville is encouraging civility in political discourse with an initiative through the school's Center for Political Participation. The college presented the second annual Allegheny College Prize for Civility In Public Life last month to Senators Dianne Feinsteinn (D-California) and Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina). Allegheny College President Dr. James Mullen will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to explain why in his opinion, civility is so important in a democracy. Also, two deer in the wild were recently diagnosed for the first time in Pennsylvania with chronic wasting disease. The Pennsylvania Game Commission's Robert Boyd will tell us about the disease and who or what are at risk.

Radio Smart Talk 03/19/2013 10th anniversary of start of Iraq War

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 19 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Was the war in Iraq worth the costs? That's a question many are asking on this -- the 10th anniversary of the beginning of hostilities. Is the United States more secure -- even though no weapons of mass desctruction -- the basis for the war -- were found? A fragile democracy has emerged in Iraq, but is it enough to justify the war? Consider 4,488 American service men and women died in Iraq. It's estimated some 134,000 Iraqi civilians were killed. The U.S. will spend more than $2 trillion on the war and reconstruction when all the figures are tallied. A Washington Post/ABC News poll released this weekend indicated that nearly six in 10 Americans believe the war wasn't worth the high costs. More than half surveyed say the war in Iraq has not made the U.S. more secure. Appearing on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to look back on the past 10 years will be retired Maj. Gen. Walter L Stewart Jr., the former commander of the 28th Infantry Division, Pennsylvania National Guard, former Democratic Congressman Patrick Murphy, the first Iraq War veteran to serve in Congress, and Dr. Catherine Lutz, the co-director of The Costs of Warresearch project based at Brown University's Institute for International Studies.

Radio Smart Talk 03/18/2013 York City schools could be in for dramatic change

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 18 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

It was a bombshell last month when YorkCounts, an initiative of the York County Community Foundation, suggested that all students currently in the City of York School District attend charter schools instead. That's only happened in a few other schools across the country -- most notably in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina destroyed much of the city's infrastructure and left it in shambles -- physically and otherwise. Going to an all charter model is one of several dramatic changes being considered in a district that is experiencing major problems. Money is so tight that York closed two school buildings and have kindergarten students through eight graders attending classes in the same building. Student test scores have also been low compared to others in Pennsylvania. The state appointed a Chief Recovery Officer, David Meckley, who is taking suggestions on how to improve York's schools. Among the ideas being considered are consolidating or merging with other districts, community based schools, transformation from within and legislative changes on the state level. Meckley will appear on Radio Smart Talk along with Eric Menzer of YorkCounts and Daria Hall, director of K-12 Policy Development with the Education Trust.

Radio Smart Talk 03/15/2013 Diane Rehm

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 15 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The Diane Rehm Show has more than 2.4 million listeners each week on public radio stations across the country, including witf. However, numbers alone don't tell the stories of Diane Rehm and one of the nation's most successful talk shows. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, Rehm will visit the witf Public Media Center studios to describe her journey from assistant producer at WAMU in Washington D.C. to hosting a national radio program. Along the way, Rehm has won a Personal Peabody Award, which is considered one of the most prestigious awards in broadcasting, written three books, and interviewed some of the most interesting people in the world. Rehm became the first radio talk show host to interview a sitting president in the Oval Office when she sat down with President Bill Clinton at the White House in 2000. Of course, the Diane Rehm Show is unique in other ways. Probably the most noticeable is Diane's voice. In 1998, her career almost ended when she was diagnosed with spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological voice disorder that causes strained, difficult speech. Rehm has brought attention to the condition and no doubt will address it on Friday's show. Diane Rehm's appearance in Central Pennsylvania is supported by Roof Advisory Group, Investment and Financial Planning Services.

Radio Smart Talk 03/14/2013 Turnpike charges; more Corbett gifts; public pensions

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 14 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane announced charges Wednesday against eight men, including a former state senator and several Pennsylvania Turnpike officials, in an alleged "pay-to-play" scheme connected to the Turnpike. Among those accused are former Senate Democratic Leader Robert Mellow of Lackawanna County, former Turnpike CEO Joseph Brimmeier, and former Turnpike Commission chairman Mitch Rubin. According to Kane, a grand jury found that companies seeking contracts on the Turnpike were expected to make political contributions and provide gifts and perks to the accused, including entertainment, dinners, trips, and sporting events. Kane said those chared were "using the turnpike to line their pockets and influence elections." witf State Capitol Bureau Chief Mary Wilson will lay out the case on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. Also, StateImpact Pennsylvania reporter Marie Cusick joins us to discuss her findings that Gov. Tom Corbett and his wife received gifts totalling more than $15,000 from an influential Philadelphia law firm. Finally, Pennsylvania is facing a $41 billion shortfall to pay the pensions of retired state government and school employees. Gov. Corbett has proposed a plan that would not affect those already retired, but move current and future workers into a 401K type contribution plan. Diane Oakley, Executive Director of the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) will appear on the show.

Radio Smart Talk 03/13/2013 Should Medicaid be expanded in PA?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 13 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

One of the top aims of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is to provide health insurance to those who are currently uninsured. Under the ACA, the federal government would fund the expansion of Medicaid programs on the state level. Washington would pick up 100% of the cost for the first three years and 90% after that. However, as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on the ACA last year, states could opt out by deciding not to accept the federal money. So far, 24 states have agreed to take the funding, including eight states with Republican governors who opposed the ACA in the first place. At this point, Pennsylvania governor Tom Corbett has decided not to accept the Medicaid money, saying he wants assurances that Pennsylvania taxpayers won't be left on the hook. Corbett says he will meet with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius soon to discuss whether accepting the money could fall back on the state. The Pennsylvania Health Access Network, which advocates for the Affordable Care Act, says Corbett is missing out on $43.3 billion in new Medicaid funds over the next 10 years that would provide insurance to half of the uninsured in Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 03/12/2013 PA state government's $100,000 club: Unique counseling organization

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 12 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

More than 4,800 employees of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania were paid more than $100,000 in 2012. That's according to a series of articles in the Patriot-News and on Penn Live.com. According to the report, there was a 59% increase in the number of state employees crossing that plateau than the last time the publication surveyed the incomes. In 2007, there were 3,043 making more than $100,000 annually. Last year, 93 people were paid more than $200,000, including eight who pulled in more than $300,000. About a third of the paper's $100,000 club were employed in the State System of Higher Education. Gov. Tom Corbett's salary of $178,033 ranked him 190th on the list. The Patriot-News and Penn Live's Capitol Bureau Chief Jan Murphy will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss her findings. Are you surprised by the number of people in state government with $100,000 incomes? Also, "Someone to Tell It To" is a unique counseling service that doesn't follow the traditional methods or rules when it comes to solving problems or at least listening. Michael Gingerich and Tom Kaden of Some to Tell It To will appear on the program.

Radio Smart Talk 03/11/2013 How essential is music education?; A unique counseling service

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 11 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

March is Music in Our Schools Month -- an event designed to focus attention on the need for and benefits of quality music education programs. Music and arts education programs have been downsized or eliminated in some public schools due to budget constraints. The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association says that there are 200 fewer music teachers across the state than there were in 2010. PMEA points out some schools have eliminated musical instrument instruction in elementary schools as part of the cutbacks. PMEA is lobbying for the arts to be included with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math as core subjects. Students would have to earn at least one credit in the arts in order to graduate. PMEA representatives will appear on Monday's program to make their case. Also, "Someone to Tell It To" is a unique counseling service that doesn't follow the traditional methods or rules when it comes to solving problems or at least listening. Michael Gingerich and Tom Kaden of Someone to Tell It To will appear on the program.

Radio Smart Talk 03/08/2013 Consumer tips; Iraq War 10th anniversary

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 08 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The United States and its allies launched the war on Iraq on March 19, 2003 -- 10 years ago this month. Former President George W. Bush and others in his administration believed that Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction. Bush saw the military action as a preemptive strike, pointing out that Saddam had killed thousands of Kurds with chemical weapons in northern Iraq years before. No WMD's were ever found, which frustrated many people who thought the U.S. had gone to war on false pretenses. Saddam was deposed, tried for crimes against his own people, and executed. Administration officials thought the Iraqi people would welcome American intervention. Instead, sectarian violence and insurgents frustrated the American military and politicians. Almost 4500 troops died in Iraq. Many mistakes were made along the way, including poor planning for a post-war Iraq. Progress wasn't realized until more troops were sent to Iraq and counterinsurgency tactics used. Today, combat operations have ended in Iraq and troops have been drawn down. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll hear from Dr. Conrad C. Crane, who is chief of Historical Services for the Army Heritage and Education center at the Carlisle Barracks. Dr. Crane co-wrote a manual on fighting insurgents that was used to help end the war.

Radio Smart Talk 03/07/2013 Consumer tips; What can PA Home Show tell us about the economy?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 07 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

So, what are we to make of the sequester? Dire predictions were made about the impact the $85 billion in automatic federal spending cuts would have once they went into effect last Friday. Less than a week later, the furor seems to have died down. Congressional Republicans and President Obama are still blaming one another for not taking action to avoid the cuts. However, there doesn't seem to be a sense of urgency to stop the spending cuts and to work out a deal. The public doesn't appear to be up in arms either. A Washington Post/ABC News poll found Americans support the spending cuts by a 61-33% margin. But they oppose the cuts in military spending. This is even after the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office said sequestration would mean the loss of 750,000 jobs. Some have suggested it would slow the economy down enough to send the nation back into recession. Instead, the Dow Jones Industrial Average set an all-time high this week. Who would have predicted that? On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll get some insight from Marolyn Geewax, NPR's Senior Business Editor. Also, a recent study at the University of Pennsylvania shows a link, although not a clear one, between sleep and diet. Joining us to discuss the findings will be Dr. Michael Grandner, a member of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program, the Center for Sleep and Circadian Neurobiology, and an instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Penn.

Radio Smart Talk 03/06/2013 Consumer tips; What can PA Home Show tell us about the economy?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 06 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Scam artists never seem to lack imagination. Those trying to steal your money or identity always come up with new ideas on how to do it. It almost makes one wonder what they could do if they used their creativity to help people instead. Two scams that aren't new are being resurrected in Pennsylvania. One is the jury duty scam. The target receives a phone call from a person claiming to work in law enforcement, who says the target was summoned for jury duty but didn't show up. The caller then asked for personal information, including a social security number, and maybe even credit card numbers. The target often becomes a victim because they don't want to be a lawbreaker and is intimidated into providing the information. The second is the Mystery Shopper scam. In this one, a person answers an ad to make money mystery shopping -- a job testing products and services. Sometimes, the scammer says cash should be sent through Western Union to test their services or money has to be paid for fees and licenses in order to be a mystery shopper. Both are scams. Renowned consumer advocate Mary Bach will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss these and other scams and offer some money-saving tips. Also, the Pennsylvania Home Show runs through Sunday at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. We'll hear from Craig Deimler from Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg on whether an economy that soured largely on a housing bubble is showing signs of making a comeback.

Radio Smart Talk 03/05/2013 Wilson College's decision to go coed; PA Home Show

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 05 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Wilson College in Chambersburg was established in 1869 to provide a liberal arts education to women. With the exception of men over the age of 22 who commuted to classes, its been that way since. That was until last January when Wilson's Board of Trustees voted to admit male students as commuters this fall and as fulltime students who could live on campus in 2014. The move was made to increase Wilson's enrollment, which hovers around 700 students. The Board also decided to reduce tuition rates to boost the number of students attending the school. It may sound counterintuitive, but more students would translate into more revenue. Wilson has $31 million in debt and needs another $10 million in maintenance. The decision to go coed was not received well by some alumnae who thought it was made too quickly and without enough input from Wilson graduates. Wilson president Dr. Barbara Mistick will disuss the move.

Radio Smart Talk 03/04/2013 What is coworking?; How did we become so divided?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 04 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

How often have you heard someone say, "I wish could work from home?" Technology has made working from home a reality for millions of people. Not everyone is satisfied with the experience though. Some say there are too many distractions at home or that they crave face-to-face interaction with other people. That's how coworking was born in San Francisco in 2006. Coworking is what happens when a group of independent workers -- most often freelancers, those trying to start a business, or the self-employeed -- gather in a shared workspace. There are some 800 coworking spaces across the country including the first one in Harrisburg, which is called st@rtup Harrisburg. st@rtup Harrisburg's co-founders Adam Brackbill and Adam Porter will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to explain this new workplace development. We live in a divided nation – not one that is separated by geographic boundaries like before the Civil War, but one that is split politically and ideologically. The epicenter of the great divide is Washington D.C. The federal budget sequester that began Friday is just the latest in a series of crises or cliffs that materialized because Democrats and Republicans can't come together for the good of the country. How did it get this way? That's a question we'll pose to Dr. Stephen Medvic, associate professor of government and department chair at Franklin and Marshall College.

Radio Smart Talk 03/01/2013 What NY is learning from gas drilling in PA; new director of Susquehanna Art Museum

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 01 March 2013 12:30:00 -0400

No natural gas wells have been drilled using horizontal hydraulic fracking in New York state for the past five years. That's even though the Marcellus Shale runs into the southern and central areas of the state and reaches as far north as Buffalo and Syracuse. For the past five years, New York has had a state-imposed moratorium on widespread gas drilling while research into the impact of fracking, including the health effects, is being conducted. New York's Department of Environmental Conservation didn't release final regulations for fracking as scheduled this week because the state's Health Department hasn't finished a review of the possible health impacts. While New York is waiting, Pennsylvania has aggressively pursued natural gas drilling. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll introduce Marie Cusick, witf's new StateImpact Pennsylvania reporter, who will describe what New York has observed from gas drilling in Pennsylvania. StateImpact Pennsylvania is a cooperative effort between witf, WHYY in Philadelphia, and NPR, focusing on energy issues in Pennsylvania. Also, Dr. Laurene Buckley is the new Executive Director of the Susquehanna Art Museum in Harrisburg. We'll meet Dr. Buckley on Friday's program as well. The Susquehanna Art Museum has plans to begin construction on a new location in downtown Harrisburg. In the meantime, the museum is working with the arts community, including an exhibit at the State Museum called Course and Discourse that involves seven regional colleges and universities and several of their art students and professors.

Radio Smart Talk 02/28/2013 Beer distributors weigh in on Corbett's privatization plans

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Buying beer in Pennsylvania is different than in almost every other state in the country. Bars, taverns, and restaurants sell beer in six or 12-packs, but no more than that. In recent years, a handful of grocery and convenience stores that also serve food have starting selling beer. Those who wish to purchase a case of beer must go to a beer distributor. Under current law, distributors can't sell anything less than a case. The sale of alcoholic beverages has been under state control in Pennsylvania since Prohibition ended in the 1930s. Gov. Tom Corbett has often said it is not a core function of government and that the current system isn't customer friendly. As a result, Corbett has proposed sweeping changes in how beer, wine, and liquor are sold in the state. Corbett's proposal goes further than selling liquor stores to private businesses or making beer and wine available in grocery stores. The governor wants distributors to be able to sell six or 12 packs. However, the most significant change under his plan would allow distributors to sell wine and spirits along with beer. What do beer distributors think about the proposal? We'll find out on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. Appearing will be Malt Beverage Distributors Association President Mark Tanczos and beer distributor Tom Mehaffie, owner and operator of Breski Beverage outside Harrisburg.

Radio Smart Talk 02/27/2013 Afghanistan after drawdown; Underground railroad in Adams County

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The Obama Administration plans to have all U.S. combat troops out of Afghanistan by the end of 2014. A few thousand may stay beyond that to provide support for Afghan security. But in his State-of-the Union Address earlier this month, the president said that the 11-year-old war will be in effect, over next year. The military objective of overthrowing the oppressive Taliban government and crippling the Al Queda terrorist organization was successful. However, the Taliban still exist and the question arises whether the group will be a force in Afghanistan once the troops are gone. Appearing on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk will be Hassina Sherjan, the founder and Chief Operating Officer of Aid Afghanistan for Education and co-author of the book Toughing It Out in Afghanistan, along with Jonathan Rudy, Elizabethtown College's Center for Global Understanding and Peacemaking - Scholar-in-Residence and Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies. Also, February is Black History Month. The Underground Railroad and it's numerous stops in Central Pennsylvania's may be the region's most significant role in African-American history. Historian Debra McCauslin visits Radio Smart Talk to discuss how slaves escaped from the South and made their way to Adams County and freedom. McCauslin is the author and publisher of Yellow Hill: Reconstructing the Past Puzzle of a Lost Community. Her For the Cause Productions has created and provides "Freedom Lies Just North: The Underground Railroad Tours of Adams County" and "Echoes from the Past: African American Voices At Gettysburg Tours.

Radio Smart Talk 02/26/2013 Scott Perry; Women who make a difference

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Washington's inability to reach a federal budget deal could come to a head later this week. Friday, March 1 is when $85 billion in automatic spending cuts are scheduled to take place. Known as sequestration, the deadline was set as a way to force Congress and the White House to work together to avoid what many consider drastic cuts that neither party would want. Half of the spending reductions would come from defense and the other half from domestic programs. The Congressional Budget Office says the sequester will result in the loss of 750,000 jobs and some say it could send the nation back into a recession. The White House indicates Pennsylvania faces cuts of $26.4 million in education, the furlough of 26,000 civilian Department of Defense employees at the state's military facilities, and a $5.7 million reduction in funding to environmental programs. First term Republican Congressman Scott Perry, who represents York and Adams Counties and parts of Cumberland and Dauphin Counties will address the sequester on Radio Smart Talk.

Radio Smart Talk 02/25/2013 Cyber espionage and security; new book on Agnes flood

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

A secret Chinese military unit, based in Shangai, has been accused of conducting cyberattacks against more than 140 American companies. The hackers were allegedly targeting "broad categories of intellectual property, including technology blueprints, proprietary manufacturing processes, test results, business plans, pricing documents, partnership agreements and emails and contact lists from the the businesses' leadership." How did the cyber spies do it and what can be done to protect American business, government, or military networks? Michael Wright, who is on the corporate faculty at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to explain. Also, Tropical Storm Agnes and the resulting flood is one of the most significant events in Central Pennsylvania history. A new book that tells the story of the storm is on sale Monday. Tropical Storm Agnes in Greater Harrisburg is written by Erik Fasick, who will be a guest on Monday's program.

Radio Smart Talk 02/22/2013 Teacher pensions; spelling contest

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania is facing a $41 billion shortfall in public employee and educator pensions. Pensions for the Pennsylvania School Employee Retirement System make up most of the gap. It is underfunded by some $26.5 billion. Several factors led to the pension fund coming up short -- the state didn't make enough or any contributions for several years and investments badly underperformed when the economy tanked in 2008. Whether the public pension issue is a crisis depends on who you talk to, but the situation is dire enough that Gov. Tom Corbett has offered a plan he says will solve the problem. Under Corbett's proposal, nothing will change for former public employees and educators who are already retired. But the governor wants current and future workers moved into a 401K type plan rather than a defined benefit. Current employees would keep what they earned up until now. Corbett also wants to change the formula by which the pensions of current workers in determined. Reaction to Corbett's plan has been mixed but teachers and their unions don't like it at all. Appearing on Friday's Radio Smart Talk to explain why will be Michael Crossey, President of the Pennsylvania State Education Association, the state's largest teacher's union. Also, The Grand Championship of witf's 2013 Central PA Spelling Bee is set for this weekend. It has become a tradition on Radio Smart Talk to stage a spelling contest amongst several staff members preceding the Spelling Bee. We'll do that F-R-I-D-A-Y.

Radio Smart Talk 02/21/2013 PA inheritance tax; Winter books

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania's inheritance tax is arguably the state's most unpopular tax. It is derisively called "the death tax." Rep. Stephen Bloom (R-Cumberland) has proposed legislation to eliminate the inheritance tax on family-owned businesses in Pennsylvania, saying some families have had to sell or even liquidate their businesses in order to pay the tax. It ranges from 4.5% to 15% of a business' total value, depending on whether the heir is the son or daughter of the business owner or a distant relative. Bloom also calls the inheritance tax a burden to the next generation of job creators. The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue estimates doing away with the tax would mean a loss of $9.9 million in tax revenue. Rep. Bloom will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to explain his bill. Also, we may be a month away from spring but this is the time of year when many people get bored and are looking for something to do. Reading a good book is entertaining at any time of year, but maybe more so now during the cold winter days and nights. Radio Smart Talk will get book recommendations on Thursday's program from Catherine Lawrence, co-owner of the Mid Town Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg and a writer herself, Todd Dickinson, co-owner of Aaron's Books in Lititz, and Jon Walker, who blogs book reviews at jonosbookreviews.com.

Radio Smart Talk 02/20/2013 Waste in health care spending

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Health care spending accounts for some 18 percent of the gross domestic product in the United States. But increases in personal income aren’t keeping pace with rising health care costs, which seemed to have skyrocketed in recent years. And a recent study from the Institute of Medicine says the U.S. wastes $750 billion on health care each year. It cites a lack of coordination among health care providers, inefficiencies in providing preventive services, and unnecessary administrative costs as being part of the problem. As part of witf’s ongoing Transforming Health project, Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk will look at just how hospitals and insurance companies are spending money, and why health care costs are rising so dramatically. We’ll also explore the parts of the Affordable Care Act that aim to contain costs. Joining the program are Dr. Kevin Mosser, executive vice president and chief operating officer at WellSpan Health and Martin Ciccocioppo, vice president of research at the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 02/19/2013 CPAs weigh in on PA's finances

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania, like almost every other state in the country, is facing a number of fiscal challenges. Gov. Tom Corbett made that clear two weeks ago when he proposed a $28.4 billion budget for the 2013-14 fiscal year. Corbett's spending plan does not include new taxes, at least directly, but does rely on selling the state's liquor stores to generate new revenue for education and ask for more money from oil companies to help fund transportation upgrades. In the meantime, the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants's Fiscal Responsibility Task Force studied and made recommedations on several of the state's financial issues. Two members of that task force will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss their findings. The PICPA said they approached Pennsylvania's finances "as we would a client facing significant financial challenges." Among the issues the CPAs looked at were public and school employee pensions, efficiencies and streamling state government, transportation infrastructure, financially distressed cities, and taxes.

Radio Smart Talk 02/18/2013 The changing media landscape

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

There's a revolution going on in the media right now. Specifically, what's changing is how Americans get their news. The days of the daily newspaper, the evening TV newscasts, and local radio stations being the main sources for news are over and probably never coming back. Central Pennsylvania is a prime example. The Patriot-News of Harrisburg has three print editions each week, but offers content 24/7 on-line, local TV stations no longer have newscasts at just 6 and 11 in the evening but have expanded to many dayparts to capture an audience whose lifestyles and viewing habits are changing, and witf is one of the few local radio stations that produce newscasts that are more than just headlines. Technology has changed the game. More news consumers are getting their news digitally than read print newspapers or listen to news on radio. That's according to a study from the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press that also said digital news consumption is catching up to TV as the prime source for news. How did we get here and what does the future hold for news? Those are questions we'll pose during on conversation on Monday's program. Appearing on the show will be NPR media correspondent David Folkenflik, Sara Glines, publisher of the York Daily Record, York Dispatch, Lebanon Daily News, Evening Sun of Hanover, and Public Opinion of Chambersburg, and Ernest Schreiber, Executive Editor of the Lancaster Intelligencer Journal, New Era, and Sunday News.

Radio Smart Talk 02/15/2013 Sec. of Education Ron Tomalis

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Ron Tomalis will appear on Friday's program to discuss the Corbett Administration's proposed budget and what it means for schools across the state. Gov. Corbett has been criticized for cuts in education spending in his last two budgets. The governor responded that his administration has not reduced education spending at all. He says schools used one-time federal stimulus money in their budgets, knowing those funds had a shelf life. In his 2013-14 fiscal year budget, Corbett is proposing a $90 million increase in basic education spending. The administration justified the increase by saying the economy is improving. However, that's not what has gotten the most attention. The governor wants to privatize liquor sales in Pennsylvania. He has proposed selling rhe state's liquor stores and creating more licenses to be sold to private businesses. Corbett estimates it would generate one billion dollars in revenue -- money that would go to schools in the form of grants. Unfunded pensions for retired school employees is also a major issue. Some $26.5 billion is owed to the Pennsylvania School Employees Retirement System. Gov. Corbett has wants to get pensions under control by turning to a 401K type plan, but it has been gotten a less than enthusiastic response from educators.

Radio Smart Talk 02/14/2013 Heart health; Undocumented students in PA

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Heart disease continues to be the number one killer in America. About one-in-four deaths are attributed to heart disease. Some 600,000 die from heart disease every year. Those statistics should be enough to motivate most people into healthier lifestyles, but there still are far too many Americans who don't eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, or exercise regularly. February is American Heart Month and Thursday's Radio Smart Talk will examine the topic of heart health. Do you take your heart health seriously? What steps have you taken to keep your heart healthy? Here are the major symptoms of a heart attack, as listed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: 1.) Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back 2.) Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint 3.) Chest pain or discomfort 4.) Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder 5.) Shortness of breath More tips about preventing heart disease and how to recognize symptoms of a cardiac event can be found on the American Heart Association website. Also, Republican State Senator Lloyd Smucker, who represents parts of Lancaster and York Counties, has proposed legislation that would allow undocumented students who came to the United States as children to pay in-state tuition rates at Pennsylvania state-owned or related universities. Sen. Smucker's proposal is part of the Dream Act that would start the children of illegal immigrants on the path toward permanent residency if they attend college or serve in the military.

Radio Smart Talk 02/13/2013 Democrat John Hanger discusses his candidacy for governor

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Democrat John Hanger, the only announced candidate for governor of Pennsylvania, will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk. Voters won't go to the polls to elect a governor until November 2014, but many candidates for statewide and national offices are starting campaigns early to get their names in the news and in front of voters, attempt to build some momentum, and of course, raise the vast amounts of money it takes in today's politics to win elections. Incumbent Republican Governor Tom Corbett hasn't officially announced his intentions to run for re-election, even though he has hinted at it and it seems a foregone conclusion the governor will run again. Hanger was the Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection during the Rendell Administration and is a former member of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. He also was president of PennFuture, an environmental group based in Harrisburg. In fact, the majority of Hanger's government service has been in the environmental and energy sectors. That's why it will be interesting to hear where Hanger stands on issues like education funding, privatization of government services, including liquor sales, government and tax reform, and transportation infrastructure funding.

Radio Smart Talk 02/12/2013 Bishop McFadden on Pope's resignation; State-of-the-Union previews

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pope Benedict XVI became the first pointiff to resign since 1415 when he announced Monday that he would be stepping down. The 85-year-old Benedict cited his age and not having enough energy as the reason for his resignation. What does Pope Benedict's resignation mean for the world's one billion Catholics? That's a question we'll pose on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to The Most Reverend Joseph McFadden, the 10th Bishop of the Harrisburg Diocese. Bishop McFadden believes the next pope could come from somewhere other than Europe -- maybe Africa or Asia. We'll ask him why he thinks that is a possibility. Also, President Barack Obama delivers his State-of-the-Union Address Tuesday night. (9 p.m. witf-fm 89.5 and witf-tv) Radio Smart Talk will preview the president's priorities with Ed Uravic, a former Congressional Chief-of-Staff, Washington lobbyist, and manager of numerous campaigns. Uravic is now a faculty member at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. Was the president's progressive Inaugural speech a sign of things to come. With re-election behind him, will the president move away from the center politically?

Radio Smart Talk 02/11/2013 Answers to Affordable Care Act questions

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Shelly Bloom, the president-elect for the Board of Trustees for the Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters, and Vik Mangalmurti, Vice-President of HighMark's Office of Health Care Reform, will answer questions about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on Monday's program. Almost three years after it was enacted, the ACA is still a mystery to many people, including healthcare consumers, providers, and employers. Radio Smart Talk has focused on the law several times over the past year and yet listeners continue to learn and ask questions. That's what's Monday's show is designed for -- asking and answering questions. Much of the attention on the ACA now is related to what employers, who have provided health insurance to their employees, will do. Will they decide it will cost them less money if they no longer offer the health benefits or will they continue to provide health insurance?

Radio Smart Talk 02/08/2013 Lend-A-Hand disaster recovery and Hershey Bears 75th anniversary

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 8 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Hurricane Sandy resulted in the deaths of 125 people last October. The storm caused more than $62 billion in damage -- mostly in New York and New Jersey. Sandy was the second costliest storm in U.S. history. Just more than three months later, thousands of residents and property owners are still cleaning up and trying to get the lives they were living before Sandy back. For some, the damage was too great and their former lives can never be restored. Sandy brought an outpouring of compassionate people and organizations who wanted to help in the recovery efforts. One of those organizations and its volunteers come from Central Pennsylvania. Lend-A-Hand is a faith-based organization that has provided volunteers to aid in the recovery efforts after natural disasters since 1989. Joining us on Friday's program will be Lend-A-Hand's co-founder Skip Becker, volunteers Jim and Deb Davis, and Dr. Carl Wilton, pastor at the Point Pleasant, New Jersey Presbyterian Church. Also, the Hershey Bears are celebrating their 75th anniversay this season. Not only are the Bears an institution in Central Pennsylvania, but they also are one of the most respected and successful sports franchises in the country. One current player called the Bears the New York Yankees of the American Hockey League. Appearing on the program will be Bears' President and General Manager Doug Yingst, former players Mitch Lamouroux and Al Hill, and Patriot-News beat writer Tim Leone.

Radio Smart Talk 02/07/2013 York Mayor Kim Bracey

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 7 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The city of York is known as the White Rose City. York has a place in American history as the nation's first capital and where the name "United States of America" was first used. In 1950, York had almost 60,000 residents. Today, the population is closer to 44,000. Like many other American cities, York lost people to the suburbs as manufacturing jobs moved or were eliminated. Also like other cities, York has its share of challenges and a lot of them are related to money and the city's limited options to generate revenue. While York struggles with finances, so far it has avoided being designated as distressed like 21 other Pennsylvania cities. York Mayor Kim Bracey often says "Pennsylvania's local tax, pension, and arbitration systems as well as urban boundaries are outdated, broken, and unfair." She is one of almost every big city mayor in the state that has called on the legislature to change laws to provide options to cities. Like other cities, York is sometimes perceived as having a crime problem. A recent report ranked York 18th in the country in crime per capita -- something the city disputes, saying the methodology was flawed and that York actually has its lowest crime rate in seven years. The city's schools have also been graded poorly. Mayor Bracey will appear on Thursday's program to discuss how she has tackled these issues and others.

Radio Smart Talk 02/06/2013 Corbett budget analysis

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 6 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Governor Corbett has announced his $28.4 billion spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year. As many expected, the plan addresses issues like pension reform, transportation infrastructure, and public education. The Governor is calling for a modified retirement plan for new state employees. He also wants to get rid of the cap on the wholesale price of gasoline, to help make up the state's $3.5 billion transportation funding gap. He's proposing a nearly two percent increase for basic education in Pennsylvania. And, just like last year, there's no tax increase included in the plan. On Radio Smart Talk, we'll break down Governor Corbett's budget proposal for the 2013 - 2014 fiscal year. We'll be joined by witf's Capitol Bureau Chief, Mary Wilson, and Dr. G. Terry Madonna, director of the Franklin and Marshall College Poll and professor of Public Affairs at F and M. We'll also hear from some representatives from industries affected by the proposed budget.

Radio Smart Talk 02/05/2013 State budget wish list

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 5 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

It’s that time of year again: Governor Corbett is set to unveil his budget proposal. Advocacy groups, state lawmakers, and local officials have already been urging the Governor to increase spending in some areas or make changes to the way certain programs are funded. But Corbett's announcement will shed real light on just what the Governor’s biggest priorities are, and set the tone for budget negotiations in the weeks and months ahead. Corbett has already said he’ll keep funding leveled for state-owned colleges and universities as long as they can keep tuition increases down. He’s also expected to address transportation funding, the state’s pension system, and the possibility of Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act. And many will be watching to see whether or not he’ll hold the line on taxes, as he did in last year’s $27.7 billion budget. On Radio Smart Talk, we’ll hear from several industries, including transportation, mental health care, and private business, about what they’d like to see included in Governor Corbett’s address as part of their budget wish list.

Radio Smart Talk 02/04/2013 Drones -- Friend or Foe? (repeat)

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 4 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or drones, as they are more often called, has become of the weapon of choice for the U.S. to destroy enemy targets in Afghanistan and western Pakistan. Actually, the drones themselves deliver the bombs and missiles that do the damage while being controlled thousands of miles away. To some, a drone strike looks very much like what one would see while playing a video game. That's the dilemma for many. Does targeting and killing the enemy through a technology that doesn't give that enemy an opportunity to fight back cross some sort of moral boundary? What if an opponent develops a drone and uses it on the U.S.? Or do the drones do what they're supposed to do and destroy the enemy while minimizing American casualties? Dr. Jay Parrish, a professor of geospatial intelligence at Penn State University, will appear on Wednesday's program to address "Drones: Friend or Foe?" Dr. Parrish will also discuss how drones are and will be used in peaceful settings.

Radio Smart Talk 02/01/2013 Amazing Words

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Fascinating. Defined as "extremely interesting or charming." Fascinating is a good word to describe the book, Amazing Words by Dr. Richard Lederer. In the book, Dr. Lederer writes about hundreds of words in the English language, where they came from, how they evolved, and teaches the reader things he or she didn't know about common words. For example, the word "run" is perhaps the biggest word in the English language (at least in the dictionary) because it has 645 meanings. Not only is run defined as "to move swiftly on alternate feet" but you can run a company, run it up a flagpole, run up debts, run for school board, get a run in your stocking, run the motor of your car, run an idea past a friend, and hopefully your nose isn't running. Run comes in ahead of the words "put" and "set" in number of meanings. The word "Dachshund" is the name of one of the oldest and most popular breeds of dog. It is derived from the German words dachs meaning badger and hund which is hound. Lederer describes how the hot dog -- the ones on a bun -- got its name and how it relates to dachshunds and sausages. Dr. Richard Lederer is considered an expert on language and its usage. He has written more than 40 books with titles such as Anguished English, The Miracle of Language, and Sleeping Dogs Don't Lay. Dr. Lederer will appear on Friday's Radio Smart Talk in what could be a fascinating hour. By the way, fascinating was first used in 1638 but Lederer probably already knew that.

Radio Smart Talk 01/31/2013 Corbett plan to privatize liquor stores

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has maintained state control of the sale and distribution of most alcoholic beverages since Prohibition ended in the 1930s. Today, Pennsylvania is one of just a few states nationally that do. Former governors Dick Thornburgh and Tom Ridge unsuccessfully campaigned to privatize liquor and wine sales in the 1980s and '90s. Polls consistently show the public supports privatization but there also have been pockets of strong opposition – especially in the legislature. Opponents often counter that private sales of liquor would lead to more drinking and drunk driving and less tax money for the state. On Wednesday, Gov. Tom Corbett made the latest proposal to privatize and it may be the boldest, most sweeping one yet. The governor wants to sell the state's 600 Wine and Spirit stores and auction off wholesale licenses. Under the plan, there would be up to 1200 liquor stores. Corbett is also proposing allowing beer distributors to sell liquor and wine as well as cases and six-packs of beer. Beer also would be available at grocery and convenience stores. Perhaps the biggest bombshell in the governor's plan is the $1 billion he estimates the state would generate from all the moves, would be applied toward public education. Thursday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on the governor's liquor privatization plan and we'll hear from those who support it and those that don't. Appearing on the program will be Rep. Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster) and Katrina Currie, Sr. Policy Analyst and Dir. of Governmental Affairs for the Commonwealth Foundation.

Radio Smart Talk 01/30/2013 Tax questions

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Preparing a tax return is usually an annual chore that most people don't look forward to. The process has been made somewhat easier in recent years though as more taxpayers abandon the paperwork and file electronically or have tax preparers or accountants do all the dirty work. It all may seem worth it if it's determined a refund is on the way. Preparing your taxes may not be a simple this year and you have the Congress of the United States to thank. The last-minute deal that avoided the so-called fiscal cliff also resulted in some delays and a few changes as well. For example, Wednesday is the first day the IRS will accept tax returns electronically. Other changes this year include exemptions for dependents, standard deductions have increased, and the child tax credit is now permanent. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, Certified Public Accouncant John Steffee joins us to answer your tax questions. Wednesday's program is part of witf's Moneyworks series.

Radio Smart Talk 01/29/2013 York and Harrisburg recovery officers

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Many of Pennsylvania's 500 public school districts are experiencing money problems. Even the districts with more resources are contemplating how they will deal with pension obligations for retired teachers that will be coming due soon. That's just one issue. A shrinking tax base, limits on tax increases, few options to generate revenue, and cuts in state funding often contribute to the challenges as well. A few school districts have been hit harder than others and have had to take drastic measures such as laying off teachers or closing schools. Under legislation approved by the General Assembly and Gov. Tom Corbett last summer, four districts have been designated by the state as fiscally distressed. Two of them are in Central Pennsylvania. As a result, recovery officers have been appointed in the Harrisburg and York city school districts. They will develop and implement recovery plans for the districts. If the local school boards fail to adopt those plans, the state could take over operations. Joining us on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will be Harrisburg's Chief Recovery Officer Gene Veno and York's CRO David Meckley.

Radio Smart Talk 01/28/2013 Gun controversy claims Outdoors show

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The debate over guns has been raging since the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut in December. Not being able to see eye-to-eye on an issue related to guns claimed one of Central Pennsylvania's most popular events this week. The Eastern Sports and Outdoors Show was scheduled to begin February 2 -- next Saturday -- at the Pennsylvania State Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg and run until February 10. Hundreds of thousands of people normally attend from all over the East Coast and spend millions of dollars in the local economy. Earlier this month, the show's organizer -- Reed Exhibitions -- decided to prohibit the sale of "modern sporting rifles" or what many people call military style assault rifles, as well as high capacity ammunition magazines. Reed said in a statement that, "“In the current climate, we felt that the presence of MSRs would distract from the theme of hunting and fishing, disrupting the broader experience of our guests. This was intended simply as a product decision, of the type event organizers need to make every day." Exhibitors at the show did not react well to being told they couldn't display or sell the weapons. More than 300 decided to boycott the event, saying they wouldn't support what they felt was an infringement on theirs and their customers' Second Amendment right to bear arms. Many can't decide whether the boycott and subsequent postponement of the outdoors show is a victory or defeat. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll address the circumstances that led to the postponement and the economic impact on the region. Appearing on the program will be Lancaster Newspapers Outdoors Writer P.J. Reilly, Joe Keffer, owner of the Sportsman Shop in New Holland, one of the exhibitors who was boycotting the show, and Sharon Altland of the Hershey Harrisburg Regional Visitors Bureau.

Radio Smart Talk 01/25/2013 New spine surgery; home protection against cold weather

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Cervical disk replacement surgery. Sounds like something you would want to avoid -- right? Most people who have had spinal disk problems do. Besides not wanting to have surgery period, often there still is some pain and the patient's range of motion can be limited afterwards. However, a new procedure could alleviate a few of those issues. Last October, surgeons at PinnacleHealth were the first in the nation to implant a type of artificial cervical disc (SECURE-C) that replaces damaged discs in the neck while reducing pain and allowing patients to move more freely. That's according to the PinnacleHealth Spine Institute. Radio Smart Talk will discuss this medical breakthrough on Friday's program with Dr. William Beutler, the Spine Institute's Medical Director and Dr. Walter Peppelman, a surgeon at the Institute. Also, have the extreme cold temperatures had an impact on your house this week? State Farm Insurance says some 250,000 families have their homes ruined each winter by frozen pipes. We'll talk to a company rep who will have some tips on preparing your home and protecting it from cold temperatures.

Radio Smart Talk 01/24/2013 New Lebanon Valley College president appears

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Dr. Lewis Thayne -- the new president of Lebanon Valley College in Annville -- will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. A discussion with the new or outgoing leaders of colleges and universities in Central Pennsylvania is a Radio Smart Talk staple. It gives listeners an opportunity to learn more about the new leader's vision for the school, address current issues related to higher education, and describe the college's place in its local community. Most colleges or universities are viewed as anchor institutions and see themselves as having a responsibility to give back and help their communities grow. Annville itself has undergone a major overhaul in its downtown over the past decade and visitors will notice Lebanon Valley also has new buildings and facilities to add to the borough's transformation. Dr. Thayne's appointment began last August so he's had a few months to observe and plan for the campus, that has more than 1600 undergraduate students.

Radio Smart Talk 01/23/2013 Representing the Race author Kenneth W. Mack

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The word representative comes up often in Kenneth W. Mack's book, Representing the Race -- The Creation of the Civil Rights Lawyer. Mack writes that in the 19th and 20th centuries, black men and women who aspired to practice law almost always faced unique challenges, not including widespread discrimination and rejection. For example, whether blacks in that time period could join the bar or even vote often depended on whether they could pass as white. African-American lawyers were expected to represent their race by standing apart from their racial community but at the same time, they had to be authentic and sympathetic to blacks. Representing the Race -- The Creation of the Civil Rights Lawyer tells the stories of several black attorneys throughout history, including the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, who worked in a legal system dominated by whites, but found ways to make their own significant mark. The author of the book -- Kenneth W. Mack -- is a native of Harrisburg and teaches at Harvard Law School. He will profile the lawyers he writes about on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk. Representing the Race is witf's and Midtown Scholar Bookstore's Pick-of-the-Month for January.

Radio Smart Talk 01/22/2013 The Civil War in Pennsylvania -- A Photographic History

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tues, 22 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

"Pennsylvania sent some 337,963 men to preserve the union...33,183 would perish in this conflict." Those statistics are taken from Chapter One of the new book The Civil War in Pennsylvania -- A Photographic History, published as a collaboration between the Senator John Heinz History Center for Pennsylvania Civil War 150 and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. However, the numbers are just a small part of the book. It describes Pennsylvania's role in the many factors that mark the period including the battles themselves, slavery, politics, equipment and supplies and even Pennsylvanians who fought for the Confederacy. The Civil War in Pennsylvania is also noteworthy for the photographs it contains -- some of which have never been published before. The Battle of Gettysburg may be the most significant event during the Civil War in Pennsylvania but as the book shows, it is far from the only part of the state's history on the 1850s and 1860s. The book's three authors -- Michael G. Kraus, David M. Neville, and Kenneth C. Turner will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss Pennsylvania and the Civil War.

Radio Smart Talk 01/21/2013 Obama's second term

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

President Barack Obama will be inaugurated for a second term in office Monday. Radio Smart Talk begins witf's coverage of the Inauguration by focusing on what to expect in the next four years from the president and his Administration. Political Science professors Dr. Shirley Anne Warshaw of Gettysburg College and Dr. Jim Hoefler of Dickinson College will join us to look ahead to Obama's second term. We also would to like to hear from you. What do you want to see the president accomplish between now and 2017? NPR and witf's Public Insight Network have been soliciting responses for the past week. Here are just a few examples: "This is a second term. There is nothing to lose. I have an impression that you are still too cautious. Be more courageous even bold." "The time to act is now. Your administration has put off climate action for way too long, and the climate cliff is so much more important to my son’s future than the fiscal cliff. Please act with haste to stop global warming, and commit the US to substantial cuts in greenhouse gases that are so dangerous for our planet." "I am a working parent, with three children. I am an average, middle class family. I pay my mortgage on time, and save for my children’s college education. But, I am confused as to why you keep raising taxes, and squeezing the middle class."

Radio Smart Talk 01/18/2013 2013 healthcare changes

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Americans may be living through the calm before the storm of healthcare reform this year. Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, there will be new healthcare rules and changes in 2013, but 2014 shapes up as the headliner for President Obama's signature piece of legislation. That's when the individual mandate that requires all Americans to obtain health insurance or face fines becomes law. It also is when insurance companies must accept customers, even if they have a pre-existing condition. That doesn't mean changes for 2013 are insignificant. As of January 1, a number of tax law-related changes went into effect. Other changes include increased Medicaid payments to primary care doctors and more funding to Children's Health Insurance (CHIPS) programs. The most visible part of the new law for patients could be improvements in preventive health coverage. There will be new funding to state Medicaid programs that choose to cover preventive services for patients at little or no cost. As part of witf's ongoing Transforming Health project, Friday's Radio Smart Talk will examine and answer questions about ACA changes implemented in 2013.

Radio Smart Talk 01/17/2013 Should PA Lottery be privatized?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Gov. Tom Corbett has proposed contracting with a private company to operate the Pennsylvania Lottery. The idea is to find ways to generate more money -- that's even though the lottery produced a record $3.5 billion last year. In fact, the governor has gone beyond the proposal stage. Last week, the Corbett Administration issued a "notice of award" to Camelot Global Services -- a British company that runs the United Kingdom's National Lottery. Camelot was the lone bidder and guarantees they will generate more than $34 billion for the Pennsylvania Lottery over the next 20 years. Lottery sales are especially important because Pennsylvania's population is getting older and proceeds from the lottery pay for services for seniors like reduced fare or free public transportation, property tax and rent rebates, and low-cost prescription drugs. Gov. Corbett said on Radio Smart Talk two weeks ago that the aging population is the reason for privatizing the lottery. Even though the lottery set records the last two years, the Administration says it failed to reach profit goals in four of the last eight years. The pending deal with Camelot has set off a storm of controversy. A number of legislators have complained the bid didn't get enough public scrutiny or comment, that the lottery is successful and doesn't need a fix, and that more than a hundred union workers could lose their jobs. Council 13 of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees union has filed suit against the move. We'll hear the pros and cons of privatizing the Pennsylvania Lottery on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. Appearing will be David Fillman, Executive Director of AFSCME Council 13 and Nathan Benefield of the Commonwealth Foundation.

Radio Smart Talk 01/16/2013 Legalizing marijuana, same sex marriage, assault weapon limits -- Sen Daylin Leach

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania has a reputation as a conservative state. Change, especially when it involves social issues, comes slowly. With that in mind, can you picture a day when marijuana would be fully legal in Pennsylvania -- either for medical or recreational purposes? State Senator Daylin Leach (D-Montgomery) can. Sen. Leach has proposed legalizing marijuana and regulating its sale and usage much like alcohol. Only those over the age of 21 could buy pot and driving under it's influence would be a crime. Leach will be a guest on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss a range of issues, including his proposal to legalize marijuana. By the way, Gov. Tom Corbett has already promised to veto the bill if it ever made it to his desk, saying marijuana is a gateway drug and leads to more drug abuse. Leach is almost the polar opposite of Corbett on social issues. Regular Radio Smart Talk listeners heard the governor's views on a number of topics two weeks ago. On Wednesday, they can hear Leach and his thoughts on issues that include same-sex marriage and gun laws.

Radio Smart Talk 01/15/2013 Is there a mental health crisis?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tues, 15 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Is there a mental health crisis? Dauphin County Commissioner George Hartwick III thinks so. In fact, Commissioner Hartwick went as far as saying the mental health crisis is "a ticking time bomb" that is fast becoming "a public safety crisis." Hartwick and other county officials throughout Pennsylvania are in his words, "in the frontlines of service delivery" and thus in a position to see the impact of budget cuts and society turning a blind eye toward the mentally ill. Mental illness is getting more attention after the shooting that left 26 children and educators dead at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut last month. The gunman, Adam Lanza, is reported to have suffered from mental illness. Many have suggested that the availability of guns and violent video games and movies are other possble factors that contribute to mass shootings. Stricter gun laws are already being considered by the Obama Administration and in several states. So far though, there hasn't been much action taken on ways to recognize and improve access to mental health services. Commissioner Hartwick will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, along with Dauphin County Mental Health/Intellectual Disabilities program administrator Dan Eisenhauer and Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute medical director Dr. Linda Durst. In your opinion, how important is it to improve mental health services? Should the issue get as much attention as gun control or should the two be linked?

Radio Smart Talk 01/14/2013 Radon can be a silent killer; Local program encourages parents to get more involved

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Some 20,000 Americans die each year from lung cancer related to exposure to radon gas according to the American Cancer Society. It is second only to smoking as a cause of lung cancer. However, radon is a danger we don't hear about too often. Maybe it's because there are so many other health threats we face every day or that radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas we can't see. The Department of Environmental Protection esimates that almost half of Pennsylvania homes are affected by radon. As a result, DEP is encouraging homeowners to get their homes tested for radon and if levels are above recommendations, take steps to fix the problem. Monday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on radon -- what it is, how to test for it and what to do if radon levels are too high. Our guests will be Robert Lewis, Program Manager of the Bureau of Radiation Protection with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Kevin Stewart, Director of Environmental Health for the American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic. Also, Patricia Robinson is a substitute teacher at Central Dauphin High School, who started a program to promote responsibility for young women and encourage parents to get involved in their children's lives. She'll appear on the show to describe the EPIC program.

Radio Smart Talk 01/11/2013 Farm Show live broadcast

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

While the nation was counting down to the deadline before the fiscal cliff last month, another story made the rounds that took many consumers by surprise. The price of milk would double in 2013 unless Congress passed a new Farm Bill. The prospect of paying thousands of dollars in higher taxes was bad enough, but shelling out 8 or 9 dollars for a gallon of milk every few days would have put a real strain on millions of family budgets. Of course, the Congress did act to avoid the budget cuts and tax hikes and they also took action on the Farm Bill -- sort of. Instead of enacting a new five-year plan, Congress simply extended the current Farm Bill until the end of September. Almost no one in the agriculture community was satisfied with the extension. So what does the status quo mean for Pennsylvania farmers? Apparently, a lot of confusion is one answer. We'll find out on Friday's Radio Smart Talk that will be broadcast live from the Pennsylvania State Farm Show. The proposal under consideration would have eliminated most direct subsidies to farmers and replaced them with expanded crop insurance. The bill's supporters say those moves would have cost taxpayers less and been more efficient. We'll ask how farmers will cope if the changes actually do take place. Also, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's point man for working with Amish farmers on taking steps to make their operations more environmentally friendly will join us.

Radio Smart Talk 01/10/2013 Flu strikes early and often

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Headlines about the onset of the flu season are astounding. The mayor of Boston declared a public health emergency because some 700 people came down with the flu already this season. So many were showing up at an Allentown hospital with flu-like symptoms that an emergency triage tent was set up. The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 18 flu-related deaths last week and 22 for this flu season. The calendar hasn't reached mid-January yet. The Centers for Disease Control says the flu season began earlier this year than it has for at least the past decade. It's anecdotal but almost everyone you talk to has been or knows someone who has been sick. Dr. John Goldman, an infectious disease specialist with PinnacleHealth, will appear on Thursday's program to answer questions about this year's flu strain. We'll ask Dr. Goldman about the symptoms to look for, how to treat the flu, and maybe more importantly, how to avoid becoming ill in the first place. Other questions include how effective are flu shots and who should be getting a shot?

Radio Smart Talk 01/09/2013 Emancipation Proclamation with two renowned historians; original copy signed by Lincoln at State Museum

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 9 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

An original copy of the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln himself, goes on display at the Pennsylvania State Museum in Harrisburg Friday. Opening the exhibit, which is entitled "Emancipation: Lincoln and His Proclamation," will be nationally renowned author and historian Harold Holzer. Mr. Holzer will be a guest on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the document that helped end slavery in the U.S. Another historian with a national reputation, Rick Beard, will also be on the program later in the hour. This month marks the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. That's just one of the reasons there is renewed interest in this historic document. Steven Speilberg's acclaimed film "Lincoln" centers on the period in 1865 after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect but while Congress was heatedly debating enacting the 13th Amendment to the Constitution outlawing slavery. Harold Holzer was a content consultant on the movie. He has authored, co-authored or edited 43 books on Lincoln and the Civil War era. Holzer is the chairman of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Foundation and was awarded a National Humanities Medal by President George W. Bush in 2008. He also is senior vice president for external affairs at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Rick Beard currently serves as senior adviser to the Pennsylvania Civil War 150 Commission. Dr. Beard has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a public historian and museum administrator. Beard has also provided senior leadership for some of the nation's most prestigious historical organizations, including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. He is currently a frequent contributor to Disunion, the New York Times blog on the Civil War Sesquicentennial.

Radio Smart Talk 01/08/2013 Harrisburg sinkholes -- an aging infrastructure and who pays?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 8 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Central Pennsylvanians are used to dealing with the challenges mother nature throws at us. Roads that need cleared when there's snow, branches blown down during thunderstorms in the spring and summer, and the occasional loss of power are inconvenient, but are usually temporary or don't last long. Living where we do, those kinds of things are expected. But what isn't expected and becomes very frightening is when the street or road in front of your home collapses leaving a gaping hole in the pavement. That's what happened on North Fourth Street in Harrisburg over the New Year's holiday. A sinkhole cracked open under the weight of a garbage truck. Then another even bigger sinkhole swallowed the street as well. Not only did it make the street impassable, but it also disrupted water, sewer, and gas service to its residents. The sinkholes were the latest setbacks for a city that has been battling a fiscal crisis and the perception that it is becoming more dangerous for crime. Newly-elected Democratic State Representative and former city councilwoman Patty Kim was among those who blamed an aging infrastructure, that has been ignored, as the culprit. However, the question arises that in a city with a $340 million debt for an incinerator, how can its infrastructure be upgraded or modernized? Rep. Kim and Today's the Day Harrisburg and Roxbury News' Tara Leo Auchey will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the Harrisburg sinkholes and what can be done about the latest Harrisburg crisis. One other item to consider -- sinkholes are not only a Harrisburg problem. Sinkholes have opened on Route 422 in Palmyra on a regular basis. Infrastructure should be a concern for everyone. What can we do about it when money is tight?

Radio Smart Talk 01/07/2013 Chesapeake Bay report card

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 7 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The health of the Chesapeake Bay is improving ever so slightly. Last week, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation released its 2012 State of the Bay Report and gave the bay a score of 32 out of 100. That is up one point from 2010. The goal is a score of 70, which would represent a saved bay, according to the Foundation. The Foundation scores 13 categories to compile the report card. They include oysters, shad, crabs, striped bass (rockfish), underwater grasses, wetlands, forested buffers, resource lands, toxics, water clarity, dissolved oxygen, and phosphorus and nitrogen pollution. Of the 13 indicators, five improved, seven stayed the same, and only one declined. The only indicator that declined was bay grasses and that was attributed to high water temperatures in the lower bay and heavy rain. Appearing on Monday's Radio Smart Talk will be Harry Campbell, Senior Scientist for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation in Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 01/04/2013 Gov. Tom Corbett

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 4 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

The Commonwealth faces many challenging issues like a tight budget, an aging population, pensions for retired public employees that are underfunded, and finding billions of dollars to upgrade the state's transportation infrstructure. All this comes at a time when additional revenue is hard to come by and Gov. Corbett has ruled out increased taxes or fees. We'll discuss these issues and others with the governor. Among them: Just this week, the Commonwealth filed suit against the NCAA over the sanctions the college sports governing body leveled against Penn State last summer. The sanctions came after the Freeh Report found that officials at Penn State allegedly covered up and didn't report at least one account of former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky sexually molesting a young boy. Corbett said this week the sanctions are harming the state, Centre County and Penn State economically, weren't within the NCAA's jurisdiction to hand out, and were designed to enhance the NCAA's reputation. The sanctions include a $60 million fine for Penn State, a four-year bowl ban, 15 fewer football scholarships in each of the next four years, and vacates Nittany Lion wins from 1998-2011. The Corbett Administration is also taking steps to privatize the Pennsylvania Lottery in order to generate more money. Lottery proceeds fund programs for older Pennsylvanians and the Administration has said an aging population may require additional revenue to pay for those programs. Camelot Global Services was the lone bidder and indicates it will bring in more than $34 billion over the next 20 years. The bid was originally set to expire December 31, but has been extended to January 10. Both Democrats and Republicans have been critical -- saying the process has been handled too quickly without input from the legislature or the public.

Radio Smart Talk 01/03/2013 Keystone Tombstones Volume Two / Downton Abbey producer as series enters third season

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 3 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

One of the most popular Radio Smart Talk programs of 2012 was last March when Joe Farrell and Joe Farley appeared on the show. Farrell and Farley were on the program to discuss their book Keystone Tombstones -- Famous Graves Found in Pennsylvania. The book chronicled an unusual topic -- grave sites of famous politicians, athletes, historical figures, military heroes, and movie stars who are buried in Pennsylvania. It included short biographical sketches of the deceased and photographs of their burial sites. Like many, Farrell and Farley enjoyed walking through cemeteries and learning more about history. They turned their hobby into a book. Now, they have written and published Keystone Tombstones Volume Two. They'll appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss Volume Two and the lives and graves of famous Pennsylvanians like Thaddeus Stevens, "The Black Babe Ruth" Josh Gibson, Milton Hershey, and mob boss Angelo Bruno. Dr. Parrish will also discuss how drones are and will be used in peaceful settings. Also, The highly acclaimed PBS TV series Downton Abbey makes its season three premiere Sunday night on WITF-TV. MASTERPIECE Senior Producer Susanne Simpson will appear on the second segment of Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss what to expect in the upcoming season and why the series is so popular. According to a MASTERPIECE Classic news release, the returning cast includes Hugh Bonneville, Dame Maggie Smith, Elizabeth McGovern, Dan Stevens, Michelle Dockery, Jim Carter, Penelope Wilton, Joanne Froggatt, Brendan Coyle and a host of others, joined by Shirley MacLaine (Oscar® for Best Actress, Terms of Endearment), who plays Martha Levinson, the very American mother of Cora, Countess of Grantham (McGovern). Years earlier, Cora rescued Downton Abbey with her New World riches by marrying Robert, Earl of Grantham (Bonneville). Now, New World and Old World are about to clash as Cora’s mother locks horns with Robert’s redoubtable mother, Lady Violet, played by Maggie Smith. Last season closed with the reluctant heir to Downton, Matthew Crawley (Stevens), recovered from his war wounds and ready to tie the knot with the eldest of Lord and Lady Grantham’s daughters, Lady Mary (Dockery). Meanwhile, Mary’s youngest sister, Sybil (Jessica Brown-Findlay), has eloped to Ireland with the political-minded chauffeur, Branson (Allen Leech), and is expecting a child. Learn more about season three.

Radio Smart Talk 01/02/2013 Drones -- Friend or Foe?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 2 Jan 2013 12:30:00 -0400

Radio Smart Talk 12/31/2012 Top Stories of 2012 -- Superstorm Sandy

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

As part of witf’s Top Stories of 2012 series, Radio Smart Talk looks back at the largest Atlantic tropical storm ever and its aftermath. Forecasters were tracking Sandy for more than a week in the Atlantic Ocean. Even up until the time the storm made landfall, it was difficult to tell where it would track, although they knew the storm was huge. Pennsylvanians prepared for the worst. Fortunately the storm tracked a little more south than expected and the state was spared the extensive damage New Jersey and New York got. Pennsylvania still had thousands of power outages and other repercussions from the storm. After Sandy hit, the talk turned to whether it was a sign of a changing climate. One of the world’s foremost experts on climate change, Dr. Michael Mann of Penn State, appeared on Radio Smart Talk.

Radio Smart Talk 12/27/2012 Top Stories of 2012 -- Voter ID

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania’s Voter ID law was one of the most controversial issues the state has faced in decades. As part of witf’s Top Stories of 2012 series, Radio Smart Talk looks back at the law’s enactment, the confusion it created, the allegations of partisan politics, and eventually the court case that resulted in voters casting ballots without being required to show identification first. Republican legislators across the country and in Pennsylvania pushed through voter ID laws because they said it would eliminate voter fraud and ensure the integrity of elections – especially in an important presidential election year. Critics immediately accused the GOP of attempting to disenfranchise elderly, poor, and minority voters who were most unlikely to have IDs. They pointed out those groups usually vote for Democrats. There was much confusion throughout the year about obtaining IDs or what forms of IDs were acceptable. The case went before two appellate courts in Pennsylvania and eventually IDs weren’t required to vote in November, although the law isn’t dead.

Radio Smart Talk 12/26/2012 Top Stories of 2012 -- Penn State

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Penn State’s national championships in football in 1982 and 1986 qualify as two of the most memorable years in the school’s history. But so does 2012 and it wasn’t because of success on the playing field – even though new head coach Bill O’Brien did bring that. As part of witf’s Top Stories of 2012 series, Radio Smart Talk looks back at an unprecedented year for Penn State and maybe any college or university. Fallout from allegations that former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky had sexually molested, abused, and assaulted several young boys (Sandusky was convicted in June) left the university reeling. In January, legendary football coach Joe Paterno died from lung cancer at the age of 85. We’ll tell that story later this week. In July, former FBI director Louis Freeh released details of his internal investigation and concluded Paterno, university president Graham Spanier, athletic director Tim Curley, and vice president Gary Schultz covered up Sandusky’s crimes to avoid bad publicity. Two weeks later, the NCAA leveled their harshest sanctions ever against Penn State.

Radio Smart Talk 12/24/2012 Holiday Music

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Bluegrass singer/songwriter Laurelyn Dossett is known for her appearance on A Prairie Home Companion with her band Polecat Creek. When she was commissioned to write a series of holiday songs by the North Carolina Symphony, she recruited a number of other bluegrass stars to perform the pieces with her. Rhiannon Giddens, singer, songwriter and fiddle player, is a founding member of the Grammy-winning Carolina Chocolate Drops. Guitarist Joe Newberry picked up the 2012 International Bluegrass Music Association Award for Best Gospel Song for “Singing as We Rise.” Mike Compton, mandolin, is a Grammy winning artist, and nominated IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year. Jason Sypher, upright bass, performs and records with Irish musicians such as Grammy winning vocalist Susan McKeown. The entire group joins us on Radio Smart Talk for a special holiday program to talk about the music and perform a number of selections from their holiday album, The Gathering. Also, Eric Riley, the new conductor of the Wheatland Chorale in Lancaster brings us some music from their recent Gretna Music concert. They perform a new piece written by one of the chorale members, Douglas Weaver. And we'll hear a sample from the Tudor Choir of Seattle, known for their performance of music in the early American shape-note tradition. The popular local folk duo, Voxology, based in Mechanicsburg, will also be on the program performing some of their original holiday tunes live in the witf studio.

Radio Smart Talk 12/21/2012 End-of-year tax prep

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

The countdown to the holidays isn’t the only deadline looming in 2012. As the end of the year approaches, many people will be looking for ways to soften their tax burden. Then, of course, this year, there is the ever present fiscal cliff we’ve heard so much about and what it could mean to our taxes and family finances. On Friday’s Radio Smart Talk, we’ll provide valuable end-of-year information and answer your questions on taxes, investments, and benefits. Joining us on the program will be Certified Public Accountant John Steffee, Jeffrey Roof of Roof Advisory Group – discussing investments and financial planning -- and Tom Reese of Conrad Siegel Actuaries. With all the holiday activities swirling around, it may be difficult to take the time to prepare for the end of the year, but it may be wise because it could save you some money or help you in the future.

Radio Smart Talk 12/20/2012 Alternatives to violence

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Last week's school shooting in Connecticut is one more reminder that we live in a violent society -- one that often settles a disagreement with weapons or fists. Of course, the U.S. isn't the only place in the world where violence is pervasive. War and bloodshed seem to be an on-going part of life in many parts of the Middle East and other international hotspots. On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll focus on a program that seeks to end the violence. The Alternative to Violence project conducts workshops in the U.S. and around the world that teach skills such as: managing strong feelings like anger and fear dealing more effectively with risk and danger building good relationships with other people communicating well in difficult situations recognizing the skills you already have and learn new ones being true to yourself while respecting other people understanding why conflict happens The workshops have been conducted in this country as well as places like Gaza and the West Bank of Palestine. Appearing on the program will be two facilitators from Lancaster Friends Meeting-- Joseph Moore and Joseph DiGarbo.

Radio Smart Talk 12/19/2012 PA plan on aging

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Pennsylvania and other states are required to develop a plan on aging every four years to provide "a roadmap for meeting the challenges of serving a large and diverse community of older Pennsylvanians." Old and diverse are two of the key words in that statement. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, the state has the fourth oldest population in the country. There are 2.7 million people age 60 and older living in the state. More than 300,000 are 85 and older. Some 22% are between the ages of 45 and 59 -- the so-called baby boom generation -- who will be reaching the 60 plateau in the next few years. In Pennsylvania, almost 29% of those 65 and older live alone. More than of a quarter of the grandparents in the state are responsible for the care of their grandchildren. Among the plan's goals are empowering older people to remain in their homes, improve access to care, and direct them to the support they need for staying healthy. Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Brian Duke will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss a plan that will impact most of us sooner or later.

Radio Smart Talk 12/18/2012 Christmas dinner with Chef Donna Desfor

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

After all the presents are unwrapped Christmas morning, the attention will turn to dinner. That usually means families gathering for one of the biggest, if not THE largest, sit down meals of the year. Often, the Christmas dinners provide the most memories of the holiday. Sharing time with loved ones is a special part of the Christmas dinner but so is the food. Will it be turkey or ham this year? Maybe the main course is unique to your family or your family's background. What about desserts and sweets? Christmas day can be a great time to experiment with a new recipe. On Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, Chef Donna Marie Desfor joins us with a few Christmas dinner ideas and tips and to answer your questions about holiday cooking. We’d like to share your holiday recipes as well. Submit a recipe on the comments section of www.witf.org under the description of Tuesday’s Radio Smart Talk. We’ll try to share it on-the-air and direct our audience’s attention to your recipe.

Radio Smart Talk 12/17/2012 How to talk to kids about Newtown shooting

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

On Friday, December 14th, a gunman forced his way into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut around 9:30am and shot 26 people before killing himself. He'd also shot and killed his mother earlier that day. Twenty children and six adults were killed at the school, all having been shot multiple times. The Newtown shooting is among the deadliest school massacres in United States history. In a time when adults are trying to make sense of what's happened, how do we talk to children about it? On Monday's Radio Smart Talk at 9am, we'll hear from Leslie Delp, a bereavement specialist and founder of Olivia's House, a grief and loss center for children in York, about how to broach the subject with young children. Jackie George, a registered play therapist and licensed clinical social worker at Leg Up Farm in Mt. Wolf, and Dr. Christopher Petersen, a child psychiatrist at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, will join us as well.

Radio Smart Talk 12/14/2012 Don Gonyea; PA decision on health insurance exchange

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

The United States just experienced a contentious presidential election after heavy campaigning for more than a year. NPR Political Correspondent Don Gonyea spent much of that time on the road with President Barack Obama after serving as White House Correspondent for the network. On Friday's show, we'll hear from Gonyea about his time on the campaign trail, as well as what the nation can expect under President Obama's second term. Also, Governor Corbett announced this week Pennsylvania won't be setting up its own private health insurance exchange in 2014. The decision means the federal government will instead oversee the system in the commonwealth. State Insurance Commissioner Michael Consedine will join us on the program to discuss what the exchange might look like. Eric Beittel and Rob Berger, both with the Central Pennsylvania Association of Health Underwriters, will also join the program to talk about how the exchange would affect the health care industry and the consumer.

Radio Smart Talk 12/13/2012 Child protection task force makes recommendations

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

The Pennsylvania Task Force on Child Protection has recommended toughening child sex abuse laws, redefining what child abuse is, and expanding the list of people who are required to report suspected abuse. Delilah Rumberg, the Chief Executive Officer of the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape and a member of the task force will be a guest on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the changes that are recommended. The Task Force was appointed after former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was accused of sexually molesting, abusing and assaulting ten young boys and teenagers last year Sandusky was convicted on 45 counts last June and sentenced to 30 to 60 years in prison. Legislative action must be taken to implement the recommendations into law. Also, Republican State Representative Mauree Gingrich of Lebanon County has proposed a bill that would require the Pennsylvania Department of Education to develop an age-appropriate curriculum to teach children how to recognize sexual abuse and to identify behaviors in adults that can lead to abuse. Rep. Gingrich will be with us as well.

Radio Smart Talk 12/12/2012 Are you an educated consumer?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

It's the holiday shopping season when most of us are buying gifts, spending money, and trying to find a bargain. But with all the hustle and bustle, are we as focused on not getting ripped off as we are at other times of the year? Wednesday's guest on Radio Smart Talk is always on alert for just that. Consumer advocate Mary Bach is best known for suing Wal-Mart and winning after she was overcharged two cents for a package of sausage. While some may accuse Bach of filing a frivolous lawsuit, she makes the case that the suit made its point. The brown and serve sausage was listed at 98 cents. When Bach checked out, the cash register charged her one dollar. The two cents was refunded but when Bach returned a week later, the same 98 cent package rang up as a dollar. That's when she acted. On Wednesday's program, Bach will discuss making sure consumers get what they pay for, don't pay sales taxes on items that aren't taxed, sales taxes on purchases made online, scams and money-saving tips.

Radio Smart Talk 12/11/2012 Answers to Affordable Care Act questions

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

A poll commissioned for witf's Transforming Health initiative this fall asked the question, "How much do you know about the healthcare reform law that was passed in 2010?" Forty-one percent answered "only a little." Another 15% said they know "nothing at all." That means 56% know very little or nothing about a law that probably will have an impact on every single American. A few parts of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act have already been implemented, but some of the most significant changes won't happen until 2013 or 2014. Now that President Obama has been re-elected, the future of the ACA is more certain and those who waited to asked questions about the law are seeking answers. Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will do just that. Appearing on the program will be Scott Malan, Senior Vice President, Federal Government Affairs for Stevens and Lee, a Harrisburg law firm, who also has had a long career as a lobbyist in the healthcare field and Dr. Joseph Anderson, an Affiliated Adjunct Professor of Business, Economics, and Public Administration at several Pennsylvania colleges and universities.

Radio Smart Talk 12/10/2012 Gas drilling's impact on two PA towns

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Since natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale exploded in Pennsylvania five years ago, hundreds of small boroughs and townships have felt the impact. Jobs have been created, local businesses are making more money, and local governments are bringing in more tax revenue. However, with more people to work the wells immigrating to these towns, crime rates and traffic have increased, apartment rents have tripled in many cases, and housing is hard to come by. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll look at two small towns in northeastern Pennsylvania that have witnessed big changes since drilling began. StateImpact PA reporter Scott Detrow joins us to focus on Towanda in Bradford County -- a county that has more wells than any other in Pennsylvania. Towanda's experiences with gas drilling is typical of what many other areas have seen. A second StateImpact PA reporter Susan Phillips reports from a diner in Montrose, Susquehanna County whose customers are both pro and anti-drilling. StateImpact PA is a project that focuses on energy issues in Pennsylvania and is a collaboration between witf, WHYY in Philadelphia and NPR.

Radio Smart Talk 12/07/2012 Encore: Pearl Harbor

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 12:30:00 -0400

Today marks the 71st anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Two years ago, Radio Smart Talk featured two local Pearl Harbor survivors -- Henry Heim and Joe Lockard. Unfortunately, Mr. Lockard passed away last month. We listen to a rebroadcast of their stories.

Radio Smart Talk 12/07/2012 Osteoporosis could become more prevalent

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 11:25:26 -0400

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones. It happens when you lose too much bone, make too little bone or both. As a result, bones become weak and can break from a minor fall or, in serious cases, from a simple action such as a sneeze or bumping into furniture. Women over the age of 50 are especially vulnerable to osteoporosis. In fact, with a population that is aging, it's estimated that half of all women 50 and older will be at risk by the year 2020. However, that doesn't mean that men don't get osteoporosis. Right now, some 10 million people are living with osteoporosis and another 34 million are at risk. Often the disease goes undiagnosed or at least the fractures due to low bone density do. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll examine osteoporosis. Our guests will be Dr. Christopher Kager, a neurosurgeon with Lancaster NeuroScience and Spine Associates and 74-year-old Marie Moeller, who suffered a fracture of part of her spine.

Radio Smart Talk 12/06/2012 Books for holiday gifts

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 11:25:26 -0400

The American Booksellers Association reports brisk sales of books this holiday season. And why not? Books have always been a thoughtful and treasured gift. Almost everyone enjoys and can appreciate a book -- whether it be paper or an ebook -- as a gift. On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll discuss the books that would make great gifts. They may or may not be new or on the bestseller list, but our panel will recommend and describe several titles to think about. Joining us will be Catherine Lawrence, co-owner of the Mid Town Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg and a writer herself, Todd Dickinson, co-owner of Aaron's Books in Lititz, and Jon Walker, who blogs book reviews at jonosbookreviews.com. We'd like to hear your suggestions as well. What books do you think your friends or loved-ones would enjoy or what books are on your wish list this year?

Radio Smart Talk 12/05/2012 Mixed feelings on new school lunches

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:25:26 -0400

The Centers for Disease Control says about one in five children ages 6 through 11 and 18% of 12 to 19 year olds are obese. The number of obese young people is increasing. The CDC also says that, "Schools play a critical role in improving the dietary and physical activity behaviors of children and adolescents. Schools can create environments supportive of students' efforts to eat healthy...by implementing policies and practices that support healthy eating." With that in mind, the federal government implemented guidelines for this school year that are designed to make school cafeteria lunches healthier. The menu has fewer calories, often smaller portions or not as much food, and more fruit and vegetables. Funding for school lunches is tied to how schools comply with the guidelines. For schools that offer a high percentage of free or reduced priced lunches to students from families with lower incomes, that money is essential. Many students across the country aren't happy with their school lunch choices and say they're often hungry shortly after they eat. Students at a high school in Kansas produced this video to show how hungry they are. Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on the new regulations called the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. Pam Gallagher, the Coordinator of School Nutrition Services in the North Penn School District, will appear on the program.

Radio Smart Talk 12/04/2012 Tech Gadgets

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:25:26 -0400

Every December, Radio Smart Talk produces a program on the latest tech gadgets or electronic devices that are on many holiday gift lists. Tuesday's show will be our annual tech gadgets program. One of the reasons for the show is that the gadgets change every year or new ones are introduced to the market. Charles Palmer, the Executive Director for Advanced Entertainment and Learning Technologies and an Associate Professor of Multimedia at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology and witf audio specialist Joe Ulrich will appear on the program to discuss the latest devices and answer questions about them. Among the gadgets we'll describe are the iPad Mini, the Microsoft Surface, and Kindle Fire. Then, there are a few unique devices like the smart pen that records the audio when its user is taking notes and records what has been written or said, a video camera that can worn on a person's body or anywhere else to capture action video, or the fuel band that is worn on the wrist and tracks the wearer's movements to update the person on how much excerise they're getting.

Radio Smart Talk 12/03/2012 Fiscal cliff and PA waterways; housing

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:25:26 -0400

We've heard it many times over the last few weeks -- if Congress doesn't reach a budget agreement by the end of December, the nation could go over a so-called "fiscal cliff" that would result in higher taxes and automatic spending cuts. Many believe that would throw the country back into a recession. Those are the headlines. Thousands of programs touched by the federal government could be impacted. For example, funding for programs administered by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission that provides resources for the state's rivers and streams would be in jeopardy if a budget deal isn't reached in Washington. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, The Fish and Boat Commission's Director of Policy and Planning Timothy Schaeffer and Deputy Director of Administration Brian Barner will explain what the fiscal cliff could mean for Pennsylvania's waterways, anglers, and aquatic wildlife. Also, Kate Newton of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency will join us to discuss housing, with an emphasis on first-time home buyers. Is the market improving? Has the economic downturn scared homebuyers away? We'll find out Monday.

Radio Smart Talk 11/30/2012 Extraordinary Give live broadcast

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 11:25:26 -0400

Central Pennsylvanians are generous. They prove it time and time again whether they're giving after a natural disaster like Superstorm Sandy or to organizations that support the arts or who help those less fortunate. Friday, November 30 is the Lancaster County Community Foundation's "Extraordinary Give" -- a 24-hour campaign to raise money for some 200 non-profit organizations, including witf. During the event, individuals can go online at ExtraGive.org and choose the organizations they would like to contribute to. Every dollar donated will be matched from a $250,000 Foundation pool, so those donating will get more bang for their buck. Radio Smart Talk will broadcast live from the Ware Center at 42 North Prince Street in Lancaster Friday morning. The Ware Center will act as a "giving lounge" where donors can choose and direct their contributions. We encourage everyone to give generously during this first-of-its kind event and to stop by and say hello as well.

Radio Smart Talk 11/29/2012 World AIDS Day

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 11:25:26 -0400

December 1 is World AIDS Day. It is a time to raise awareness about the global epidemic, to support the millions that are living with HIV/AIDS, and to remembers the millions more who have died. About 1.1 million Americans are living with the HIV virus. Progress has been made in treatment and most who contract the disease are living longer. The bad news though is it's estimated that one-in-five don't know they have the HIV virus and that's one of the reasons testing is so important. Some 50,000 become infected with the virus each year in the United States compared to about 130,000 in the mid-80s. Appearing on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk will be Phil Goropoulos, president and CEO of Alder Health Services and Tamara Allen Wurst, HIV Provider Relations Manager at the Family Health Council of Central Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 11/28/2012 Confederate Approach on Harrisburg; 12 days costs

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 11:25:26 -0400

The Confederate army, under the leadership of General Robert E. Lee, had just scored it's most decisive Civil War victory at Chancellorsville, Virginia in 1863. Lee decided the time was right for an invasion of the north. It would serve several purposes: take the fighting away from war-torn Virginia, allow that state's farmers to harvest a crop, raid the bountiful farms of the Cumberland Valley in Pennsylvania, and if he could score another battlefield win, possibly demoralize northerners enough that they would demand peace. Capturing Harrisburg initially was not a major objective. At the time, Pennsylvania's capital city appeared to be there for the taking. Carlisle and Mechanicsburg had already been occupied by the Confederates. But as the Confederates moved toward Harrisburg, the main forces of both armies met at Gettysburg and that's where the turning point of the war occurred. Author Cooper H. Wingert describes what was happening in June 1863 in south central Pennsylvania in his new book -- The Confederate Approach on Harrisburg. He'll be a guest on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk. Cooper Wingert is 14 years-old and has written three other books about the Gettysburg Campaign. Also, the holiday classic -- The 12 Days of Christmas -- can give us a sense of where our economy stands when we compare the costs of the items in the song to other years. PNC Wealth Management did just that and we'll hear from them as well.

Radio Smart Talk 11/27/2012 Independent Fiscal Office on budgets, taxes, and revenues

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 11:25:26 -0400

The statistics say the economy, both nationally and in Pennsylvania, is improving. However, recovery from a recession that began in 2007 has been ever-so-slow. One doesn't have to look far to find some less than stellar economic news either. In fact, Pennsylvania's Independent Fiscal Office has made a few recent projections that are reason for concern. The IFO is forecasting state revenue growth of just 0.8% for the next fiscal year. That compares to a 3% increase in the amount of revenue the state is collecting during the current fiscal year -- which by all accounts is as tight as can be. Worse yet, public employee pension obligations may eat up the increase and much more. Then, there's the fiscal cliff we hear so much about. If Congressional Republicans and Democrats don't reach a budget agreement by the end of the year, there could be a series of spending cuts and tax increases that most economists believe would send the country back into a recession. The IFO says going over the fiscal cliff could cost Pennsylvania taxpayers $22 billion. Matthew Knittel, director of the state's Independent Fiscal Office, will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to explain.

Radio Smart Talk 11/26/2012 Central PA healthcare poll

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:25:26 -0400

Almost half of the Central Pennsylvanians surveyed in witf's Transforming Health poll say that our system of delivering and paying for healthcare should be completely rebuilt. That's just one of the findings from the poll conducted by the Center for Opinion Research at Franklin and Marshall College. Berwood Yost, the Center's director will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss and analyze the poll results. The poll was conducted as part of the roll out of witf's new Transforming Health initiative. Transforming Health is a broad-based, multimedia project with a goal of presenting the policy and personal choices Americans face as the nation's healthcare system changes direction toward one where partnerships are established to manage one's overall well being. The poll also found that healthcare consumers still don't know a lot about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, but from what they do know, most believe healthcare will cost them more.

Radio Smart Talk 11/21/2012 Rules of the Road

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Thanksgiving weekend is the most traveled four-day period of the year. Families are going "over the river and through the woods" to enjoy and share their holiday dinners with loved ones. Friday has earned a reputation as the biggest shopping day of the year, so traffic will be heavy near shopping centers and malls and even some downtowns. Of course, in Pennsylvania, Monday is the start of the antlered deer season, so thousands of hunters will be on their way to deer camps throughout the state. Against that backdrop, Radio Smart Talk features a discussion and mostly a question and answer session on the rules of the road. Specifically, what's legal and what isn't? Pennsylvania State Police Trooper and Public Information Officer Adam Reed joined us to answer questions about who has the right-of-way and maybe a few less than obvious ones as well.

Radio Smart Talk 11/20/2012 National Day of Listening

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

It's two days before Thanksgiving and most dinner plans have already been made. Does your family follow tradition and have basically the same meal every year or are you open to suggestions and willing to try new dishes or desserts? Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk is our annual program with Chef Donna Marie Desfor to exchange ideas, recipes, and other information for the holiday. Chef Desfor, who writes the Food Wednesday column on witf.org and owns a business, There's a Chef in My Kitchen, always has some great suggestions for making your Thanksgiving feast more enjoyable. We also would like to hear your stories and ideas as well. You can call the program at 1-800-729-7532 to answer one or all of the questions below: What's your favorite part of Thanksgiving? Other than turkey, what food or dish has to be part of your Thanksgiving meal? What time of the day do you eat your Thanksgiving dinner and why? Do you have a favorite recipe for Thanksgiving and what is it?

Radio Smart Talk 11/19/2012 National Day of Listening

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

My father, Don LaMar, died just over three years ago. We have many, many photographs and videos of my dad. However, almost immediately after he passed away, I thought to myself that I wished I had sat down and recorded an interview with Dad about his life. It would have been informative and funny because my dad was the best storyteller I ever encountered. (I don't think I'm biased). The stories he would have told would have been the most cherished keepsake in our family's history. Oral histories have been around since man first was able to communicate. Even though technology provides options for recording those histories, hearing stories from a loved one or friend is just as powerful as they've always been. Friday, November 23, 2012 is The National Day of Listening -- a day set aside for everyone to do what I didn't get the opportunity to do -- record an oral history or story with a family member or friend. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk Krisi Packer and Jeremy Helton of Storycorps join us to discuss ways to record an interview or conversation to be saved for generations to come. They'll have tips on questions to ask and how to set up the best interview you can.

Radio Smart Talk 11/16/2012 Challenges facing women in developing countries

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Women comprise 70% of the world's poorest people and own only 1% of the titled land, according to the United Nations. One-fifth of all primary-school age girls globally do not attend school. Women who are 15 to 45 years of age are more likely to be maimed or die from the violent act of a man than from cancer, malaria, traffic accidents, and war combined. Those discouraging statistics are from the film Half the Sky -- Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide, which will be broadcast on WITF-TV Sunday, November 18 at 2 p.m. Friday's Radio Smart Talk will address the challenges women around the world -- especially in developing countries -- face. The topics include education and economic empowerment, maternal mortality, and forced prostituion. Joining us to discuss what can be done to improve the lives of women and girls will be Patricia Gadsden, Founder and President of the organization Life Esteem and Ho Thanh Nguyen, founder of the Pennsylvania Immigrant and Refugee Women's Network.

Radio Smart Talk 11/15/2012 Was climate change a factor in forming megastorm Sandy?

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Almost three weeks after Hurricane Sandy pummeled the New Jersey coastline, New York, and other areas of the East Coast, thousands of homes and businesses remain without power. The latest estimates say Sandy caused between $30 to $50 billion in damage and lost productivity. (A bit of caution -- damage estimates right after a storm often are much higher than the actual damage figures). Sandy will be ranked only behind Hurricane Katrina in terms of damage. Sandy has been described in many ways: a once-in-a-lifetime storm, a storm-of-the-century, superstorm or megastorm. But was it a weather event that none of us will ever see again in our lifetimes? On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll look at the meteorological factors that created Sandy and ask whether Sandy and other extreme weather events are evidence of a changing climate. Among the guests appearing on the program will be Dr. Michael Mann, Professor of Meteorology and Director of the Earth Science System Center at Penn State University. Dr. Mann was also lead author on the Observed Climate Variability and Change Chapter of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Third Scientific Assessment Report. He also authored the book, The Hockey Stick and the Climate Wars earlier this year. ABC27 meteorologist Brett Thackara will also join us to discuss the conditions that created such a powerful storm.

Radio Smart Talk 11/14/2012 Diabetes

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

November is Diabetes Awareness Month -- a good time to learn more about a disease that afflicts millions of people. There are two kinds of diabetes -- Type I and Type II. Type I is generally considered the most serious of the two. Normally, food is broken down into sugar. The bloodstream carries the sugar throughout the body. Blood sugars rise and the pancreas releases the hormone insulin to burn the sugar for energy. In a person with Type I diabetes, the pancreas does not produce insulin. The pancreas doesn't put out enough insulin in someone who suffers with Type II diabetes. Diabetes can result in serious health problems with the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. About three million Americans have Type I diabetes. Most are adults but more children are being diagnosed as well. Wednesday's program will zero in on diabetes. Our guests include: Dr. Renu Joshi, Chief of Endocrinology at PinnacleHealth; Dan Hayward, chair of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Central Pennsylvania Chapter; and Stephanie Libhart, whose five-year-old daughter Leah was diagnosed with diabetes, when she was three.

Radio Smart Talk 11/13/2012 Child Abuse; Hurrican Sandy

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tues, 13 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Jerry Sandusky case raised awareness of child abuse and also made society realize that we have to be more vigilant when it comes to protecting kids. In the year since the former Penn State assistant football coach was arrested and eventually convicted of sexually assaulting and molesting at least ten boys, a spotlight has been focused on child abuse. Penn State established the Penn State Hershey Center for the Protection of Children to improve detection, protection, and treatment in child maltreatment cases. Also, it's been two weeks since Hurricane Sandy devastated the New Jersey coastline and other areas on the East Coast. What caused the damage and what lessons can be learned about building construction as the result of Sandy? Architect and engineer Robert Illo joins us to discuss the storm and its aftermath.

Radio Smart Talk 11/12/2012 Transforming Health

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Right before our eyes, healthcare in America is changing. There's no doubt the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is responsible for part of the change but not all of it, and maybe it won't even impact Americans as much as the other modifications. Right now and much more so in the future, doctors will not treat patients just when they are sick or injured, but are instead establishing relationships between individuals and healthcare providers. What does the future look like? On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, witf will launch a broad-based, multimedia project called Transforming Health, that will explore the dramatic changes in healthcare as they are happening. Some have gone as far as describing it as a revolution that includes the use of healthcare results data, incentives for efficiency, penalties for hospital readmissions, and better coordination of care.

Radio Smart Talk 11/09/2012 Kids for Cash author

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Fifteen-year-old Charlie spent months at a boot camp for juvenile offenders for riding a motorbike that his parents purchased as a gift, not knowing it was stolen. Fourteen-year-old Angelia was sent to a detention center for three months for writing "Michael Jackson for President" on five stop signs. Fourteen-year-old Hillary created a MySpace post mocking an assistant prinicipal at her high school and was sentenced to a camp. If these punishments seem extreme, the judge who handed them down had good reason. Judge Mark Ciaverella received kickbacks to the tune of $2.8 million for sending juvenile offenders to a private detention center. This incredible story all played out in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania without attorneys, prosecutors, probation officers or other court officials saying a word. William Ecenbarger discusses what has been described as the worst scandal in juvenile justice history in his book, Kids for Cash -- Two Judges, Thousands of Children, and a $2.8 million Kickback Scheme. Ecenbarger will appear on Friday's Radio Smart Talk. Kids for Cash -- Two Judges, Thousands of Children, and a $2.8 million Kickback Scheme is November's witf/Midtown Scholar Bookstore Pick-of-the-Month. Ecenbarger will appear at Midtown Scholar Book Sunday, November 11 at 7 p.m. to discuss the book and the kids for cash case.

Radio Smart Talk 11/08/2012 Hunger in Central PA; Red Cross on Sandy

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Mention the word hunger and many Americans start picturing children in developing countries -- not here in the United States. What they may not know is that up to one-fourth of all American children are food insecure meaning they don't have "access at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life." That definition comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Children are especially vulnerable. In Pennsylvania, it's estimated that more than 588,000 kids under the age of 18 are food insecure. In Central Pennsylvania, 21% of children sometimes go hungry. Adults are also affected. The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank says 44% of those they serve said they have had to choose between food and paying for utilities or heat. Thursday's Radio Smart Talk features a discussion of hunger in Central Pennsylvania and what you can do to help. Also, a week after Hurricane Sandy ravished areas of New Jersey and New York and while another strong storm is targeting many of the same places, we'll hear from Kathy Smyser of the American Red Cross about ongoing relief efforts.

Radio Smart Talk 11/07/2012 Election 2012 analysis

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

After the most expensive and longest campaign in American history, President Barack Obama has been re-elected. What factors led voters to send the president back to the White House? In a divided nation with a partisan Congress, how does Obama attempt to solve the many challenges facing the country? We'll examine those questions on Wednesday's program with nationally renowned presidential scholar and author, Dr. Shirley Anne Warshaw of Gettysburg College. Dr. Warshaw will join us to analyze the results, what issues was important to voters, and where the country goes from here. Radio Smart Talk will also get updates on how Pennsylvania voted -- not just for president but also for the U.S. Senate, state Attorney General, Auditor General, and Treasurer. Simply put, it was a big day for Democrats. We would like your input too. Now that the election is over, what must be done to move the nation and the state move forward?

Radio Smart Talk 11/06/2012 Election Day

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The polls in Pennsylvania are open until 8 o'clock tonight. It's been a long and expensive campaign for president, but today we'll find out whether President Obama is re-elected or Mitt Romney will become the nation's 45th president. Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on the election. We'll have the latest information on turnout, if there are any problems at the polling places, and if there is news you need to know as you cast your ballot. We'll also hear from the group Election Protection, which bills itself as the nation's largest voter protection coalition, led by the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Election Protection will have attorneys watching polls throughout the country, including here in Pennsylvania, to ensure the integrity of the balloting. We'll also keep an eye on the statewide races in Pennsylvania for the U.S. Senate, Attorney General, Auditor General, and Treasurer.

Radio Smart Talk 11/05/2012 Water quality and quantity

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Pennsylvania's water quality and quantity are two of the most important environmental issues facing the state. With a few exceptions, the state's rivers and streams are much cleaner than they were 40 years ago. That's because citizens and government took action to stop pollution and clean up the dirty waters that were unsafe and hazardous to humans, wildlife, and fish. Pennsylvania has also been fortunate when it comes to the amount of clean, usable water available. That point is hammered home when one witnesses the droughts the Midwest and South have had recently. That's not to say there aren't challenges or even threats. Natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale has exploded in Pennsylvania the last few years. The process to get to the gas called "fracking" includes the use of mass quantities of water. Some have also questioned whether the chemicals used in fracking are polluting the water too. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, Pat Bowling, a hydrologist with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Dr. Christopher Woltemade, a professor at Shippensburg University's Department of Geography/Earth Science, will appear to discuss water in Pennsylvania. Both Bowling and Woltemade will be on a panel November 8 at Shippensburg University's Memorial Auditorium as part of the South Mountain Speaker Series that will focus on water quality and quantity.

Radio Smart Talk 11/02/2012 Casey-Smith; Election-Spanier

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

witf's Election 2012 coverage continues Friday on Radio Smart Talk as we'll hear from U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr. Bob Casey Jr. is the incumbent Democrat and is seeking his second term in office. Sen. Casey is Pennsylvania's former Auditor General and Treasurer. Casey faces Republican Tom Smith, who is a successful businessman from western Pennsylvania. Polls show the race has tightened but Casey still has a lead. Also on Friday's program, three journalists will join us to look ahead to Tuesday's election. Laura Olson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, John Micek of the Allentown Morning Call and witf's Capitol Bureau Chief Mary Wilson will also provide insights into charges being lodged against former Penn State president Graham Spanier related to the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse case.

Radio Smart Talk 11/01/2012 The politics of political humor

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 11:17:26 -0400

In her book, A Conservative Walks Into a Bar: The Politics of Political Humor, Dr. Alison Dagnes writes that few stand-up comedians tell political jokes, mostly because many Americans don't follow politics that closely and wouldn't get the punchlines. Dagnes, who teaches political science at Shippensburg University, also says the comics who do tackle political humor do so with more of a liberal point-of-view. There are a few exceptions like comedian Dennis Miller, who readily admits his views became more conservative after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001. Dr. Dagnes says that doesn't mean conservatives aren't funny but she has a theory on why there are more liberal joketellers. Dagnes' research found that while most comedians may be liberal, the targets of the jokes are split across idealogical lines. In the book, Dagnes describes the history of humor in American politics stretching back to the colonial era and how it has changed up to the present with TV programs like The Daily Show and the Colbert Report on Comedy Central.

Radio Smart Talk 10/31/2012 Eugene DePasquale

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Eugene DePasquale, the Democratic candidate for Pennsylvania Auditor General will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk. DePasquale will discuss why he wants to be the state's top fiscal watchdog, what plans he has for the office and why he believes he is the best candidate for the position. DePasquale, who is from York County, currently serves in the State House of Representatives. His opponent is Republican John Maher of Allegheny County. Radio Smart Talk is discussing the issues with the statewide candidates throughout the month of October as part of witf's Election 2012 coverage. What questions do you have for Eugene DePasquale? Also, the last Franklin and Marshall College statewide poll before next Tuesday’s election is out. It shows President Obama leading challenger Mitt Romney 49-45 percent in Pennsylvania. We’ll talk to pollster Terry Madonna about the poll’s findings and also what impact Hurricane Sandy could have on the election.

Radio Smart Talk 10/30/2012 Sandy aftermath

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Superstorm Sandy has left more than 900 thousand Pennsylvania homes without power, including 144 thousand in the midstate. The heavy rain yesterday and last night hasn’t resulted in widespread flooding as feared. Damage is still being assessed this morning but it doesn’t appear as though as many trees came down as anticipated either. However, Sandy has definitely left her mark on Pennsylvania and its not over yet. We’ll get an overview of the storm and what it left behind. We’ll also hear the latest weather forecast to find out when the rain and winds will end and normal October weather returns. One question many have is whether Sandy will bring any snow to Pennsylvania. West Virginia is getting socked with over a foot of snow from the outer bands of Sandy.

Radio Smart Talk 10/29/2012 Hurricane Sandy

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Monday's Radio Smart Talk will provide the latest up-to-date information on Hurricane Sandy. The storm is expected to bring up to ten inches of rain and high sustained winds of 30-50 miles-per-hour with gusts up to 70 MPH to the midstate. Sandy is potentially one of the most dangerous storms to hit Pennsylvania in decades. Gov. Tom Corbett has already a state of emergency and many municipalities have as well. Most schools are closed and mass transit systems shut down, including Amtrak service for most of the Northeast. We'll get the latest information to you on the storm's path and how it is impacting the state. The program will also have the latest from emergency services, the utilities, and road conditions. We also encourage you to call the show or email us with news you may have about how the storm is affecting you or to pass along any information that may be useful.

Radio Smart Talk 10/26/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

A new study conducted by Americans for the Arts has been released by Citizens for the Arts in PA which details the impact of Pennsylvania's non-profit arts industry. The report, Arts and Economic Prosperity in the State of Pennsylvania, is available for download in full, or by region. On Friday’s Radio Smart Talk, with guest host Cary Burkett from the witf Arts and Culture Desk, we’ll discuss the findings of the new report, take a look at the economic importance of maintaining a vibrant arts community, and talk about how the arts might be a pathway for creating jobs in the future. We’ll hear from Jenny Hershour, managing director of Citizens for the Arts in Pennsylvania, Alan Hineline, CEO of Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, and Robert Welsh, executive director of Jump Street.

Radio Smart Talk 10/25/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Pennsylvania may not be a swing state this year, but there’s still an important election twelve days away. The race for U.S. Senate has gotten much closer than expected, with Republican challenger Tom Smith closing the polling gap between him and Democratic incumbent Bob Casey. The race for Attorney General is gaining traction, too, with both candidates airing commercials and going head-to-head in a debate. And Harrisburg hosts one of the most competitive state Senate races in the commonwealth. On Thursday’s Radio Smart Talk, Tim Lambert will talk about the 2012 campaign with witf's Capitol Bureau Chief Mary Wilson, as well as political scientists Christopher Borick and Jim Hoefler.

Radio Smart Talk 10/24/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Henry Rollins is an artist who can’t easily be categorized. He’s a spoken word poet, writer, actor, activist, and former singer-songwriter. He’s also in the middle of a 50-state political tour called “Capitalism,” where he’s visiting every state capital in the U.S. ahead of next month’s election as part of his so-called “unflinching quest for truth that’s sadly lacking in the profit-driven American mass media.” On Radio Smart Talk, we’ll hear from Rollins about his work before his Wednesday night appearance at the Sunoco Performance Center at Whitaker Center. It’s also that time of year when many people head out on tours of ghost towns and haunted houses. Radio Pennsylvania Network News Director Brad Christman shares audio collected from Gettysburg that may or may not feature sounds from Civil War soldiers.

Radio Smart Talk 10/23/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Earlier this month, a Pakistani teenager named Malala Yousafzai was shot by the Taliban for advocating for girls’ education. Her story has garnered worldwide attention and renewed interest in the state of women’s rights in the Middle East. Yousafzai was flown to London for treatment, where doctors say she’s responding well to medical care. One woman, like Yousafzai, who knows what it’s like to seek an education in the Middle East, is Hassina Sherjan. She is an Afghani who left her home in 1979, but returned two decades later to teach underground classes to girls. She is also the founder of the nonprofit Aid Afghanistan for Education, and is working to rebuild the country in the wake of the civil war there. Sherjan will join Radio Smart Talk to talk about her work in Afghanistan, and the role Yousafzai’s story plays in the struggle for equal education rights there. We’ll also hear from Joyce Davis, president of the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg. The organization is hosting a lecture series called “Great Female Authors.”

Radio Smart Talk 10/22/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Each year, about 5,000 young Americans between the ages of 15 and 24 commit suicide. It’s the third-leading cause of death among adolescents under the age of 18, and the second most common cause of death among college students. In recent years, there have also been tragic cases of kids as young as 11- and 12-years-old taking their own lives. On Monday’s Radio Smart Talk, we’ll talk about depression in teens and young adults, and how parents, teachers, and friends can reach out to those students who are battling depression. We’ll outline the warning signs of both depression and suicide, and discuss how they’re different than simply feeling sad. As part of National Depression Awareness Month, Dr. Matthew Wintersteen, a psychiatrist from Thomas Jefferson University/Jefferson Medical College, will join the program. We’ll also hear from Joe Vulopas, executive director of the depression awareness group, Aevidum, and Francesca Pileggi, a young woman who’s struggled with both anxiety and depression. She works with Minding Your Mind, which aims to help reduce the stigma associated with depression.

Radio Smart Talk 10/19/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One doesn't have to look far to see a pink ribbon, buildings cast in pink light or fountains flowing with pink water. The color pink is associated with the cause so much during the month that everyone knows exactly what it signifies. When the campaign began in October 1985, the focus was on early detection of breast cancer. That's still an important message, but billions of dollars have been donated and contributed toward breast cancer research and treatment. Progress has been made. About 2% fewer breast cancers were detected between 1999 and 2005 and death rates from breast cancer have been dropping since 1990. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll discuss the impact of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the past and into the future. We'll also look into current statistics, treatments, research, and what the future holds. Appearing on the program will be Pat Halpin-Murphy, the president and founder of the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition, Leigh Hurst, the founder of Feel Your Boobies, and Dr. Ronald Hempling, a gynecologic oncologist with Wellspan Health.

Radio Smart Talk 10/18/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

It's a provocative question and one that many people may not answer because they don't want to admit publicly that they may judge another person by their looks or how they're dressed, their skin color or religion. It may be a difficult question to answer but it's one that witf's Public Insight Network and the Ephrata Public Library is asking as part of its Community Memory Project. witf and the Ephrata Public Library will team up on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to hear how people in the Cocalico Valley of Lancaster County and in Central Pennsylvania are discussing diversity and the prejudice question in particular. Oral historian J. Phillip Eiseman and library executive director Penny Talbert will join us to discuss interviews being collected through the end of October.

Radio Smart Talk 10/17/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The documentary film "Dick Winters: Hang Tough" will premiere in Lancaster, Lititz, and Annville this week. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll meet the film's producer Tim Gray, the chairman of the World War II Foundation. Dick Winters was born in Ephrata, Lancaster County, but lived most of his adult life in Hershey. The 2000 HBO film "Band of Brothers" portrayed the heroism and leadership skills of a man who considered himself an ordinary soldier. Winters led E "Easy" Company, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division on D-Day and afterwards in France during the war. The film will also includes footage from this past June in Normandy when the Major Richard Winters Leadership Monument was unveiled. Also appearing on Wednesday's program will be artist Hasan Elahi, whose life was turned upside down 10 years ago when he was detained after an international flight and suspected of hoarding explosives. For six months, Elahi was questioned but finally turned the tables by calling the FBI whenever he planned to travel and then posting minute-by-minute photographs of his life on a website. Today he wears a GPS device that allows visitors to his website to track his every movement. He hasn't been bothered since. An exhibition of Elahi's artwork is on display now through November 14 at York College's Brossman Gallery.

Radio Smart Talk 10/16/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Segment One For the longest time after the Vietnam War ended in 1975 with the Communist takeover of Saigon in South Vietnam, Americans didn't talk about the conflict. There was too much pain. There was anguish over the loss of 58,000 service men and women who died, the realization that America had lost its first war, and how the conflict tore the nation apart back home. Earlier this year, President Obama announced the 50 year commemoration of the war in Vietnam. Some found the announcement somewhat odd, since there isn't agreement when hostilities actually began. The first American was killed in Vietnam in the 1950s. American ground troops weren't deployed until 1965. On Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll look back at the Vietnam War with Dr. Lewis "Bob" Sorley, who is considered one of the nation's most respected historians on Vietnam. Segment Two The fungal disease white nose syndrome has killed off more than 90% of the Northern Long-Eared, Small Brown, and Tri-Colored species of bats in Pennsylvania since 2008. However, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has resisted putting the three species on the state's endangered species list -- saying more research is in order. The decline of the bat population could have a major impact on Pennsylvania agriculture and plantlife since bats feed on insects that can harm crops and plants. One estimate says bats save farmers more than $275 million a year in pest-control costs. The Game Commission's Jerry Feaser will appear on Tuesday's program to discuss what could become a major ecological issue. Feaser will also tell us about the state's first confirmed case of Chronic Wasting Disease, found in a deer in Adams County last week.

Radio Smart Talk 10/15/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Former Pennsylvania U.S. Senator Arlen Specter died at the age of 82 Sunday. The Specter family said he died of non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Specter was Pennsylvania's longest serving senator. He was elected in 1980 and lost a re-election bid in 2010. Specter was considered a moderate Republican, who wasn't afraid to vote his conscious, even if it meant not voting with other Republicans. Specter switched his affiliation to the Democratic Party before the primary election in 2010, saying Republicans had become so conservative that he would have a difficult time winning. After changing parties, Specter lost the Democratic primary anyway to Congressman Joe Sestak. During his tenure in the Senate, Specter was at the center of many of the nation's most high profile history-making events. His vote against the confirmation of President Ronald Reagan's nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court, Robert Bork, angered many Republicans. His tough questions to Anita Hill, the college professor who accused another Supreme Court nominee, Clarence Thomas, of sexual harassment didn't endear him to women's groups across the country. Specter was one of three Republicans who voted for President Barack Obama's economic stimulus package in 2009. The backlash from that vote may have prompted Specter to become a Democrat. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll look back on Sen. Specter's life and career.

Radio Smart Talk 10/12/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

There are only a few weeks to go until the November 6th election. While many political scientists have rescinded Pennsylvania's sometime "battleground status" when it comes to electing a president, some statewide races are still heating up in the commonwealth. On the heels of the vice presidential debate, we'll look at some of the biggest contests, from the state Attorney General showdown between former Lackawanna County prosecutor Kathleen Kane and Cumberland County District Attorney David Freed, to the U.S. Senate race between incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey, Jr. and businessman Tom Smith. John Micek, state government reporter for The Allentown Morning Call, and Keegan Gibson, managing editor for PoliticsPA, will join guest host Scott Detrow to discuss the upcoming election.

Radio Smart Talk 10/11/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

About 8,000 wells have been drilled in Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale since the rush to extract natural gas began a few years ago. By law, the wells are regulated and must have permits. As a result, the state has records on the wells. What many may not realize is since oil was first dicovered in Titusville more than 150 years ago, 325 thousand oil and gas wells have been drilled in Pennsylvania. Since the state has records for only 120 thousand of them, some 200 thousand are unaccounted for and are abandoned or "orphaned." StateImpact Pennsylvania's Scott Detrow is reporting on abandoned wells this week in his series "Perilous Pathways." The abandoned wells could be potentially dangerous because they could allow methane gas to migrate to the surface. A gas and water filled geyser blew 30 feet into the air in Tioga County this summer. Detrow will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss his findings. StateImpact Pennsylvania is a collaboration between WITF, WHYY, and NPR. The project covers Pennsylvania's booming energy economy with a focus on Marcellus Shale drilling.

Radio Smart Talk 10/10/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Some 314 million people are visually impaired and 45 million are blind, according to the World Health Organization. Eighty percent of those who lose sight could have prevented it. Cataracts cause almost 40% of the blindness worldwide and the biggest reason nothing is done about it is poor access to care. Not surprisingly, most visually impaired people live in developing countries. However, eye care and disease detection is improving in those countries while more Americans are reporting sight-related health problems. October is World Blindness Awareness Month when word is spread to bring attention to eye care, prevention of blindness and eye examinations. Joining us on Radio Smart Talk will be the Execuitive Director of the Tri-County Association for the Blind Danette and optometrist Jennifer Galbraith.

Radio Smart Talk 10/09/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Nuclear war and weapons haven't gotten much media attention since the end of the Cold War between the United States and Soviet Union. That doesn't mean the potential danger is not real today. Physicians for Social Responsibility is a group that won a Nobel Peace Prize in 1985 for its efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation and war. Today, RSP has expanded its campaign to include global warming and the environment. The president of Physicians for Social Responsibility, Dr. Andrew Kanter, will be speaking at PSR's Harrisburg Chapter banquet Wednesday night in Camp Hill and makes an appearance of Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk. Also, VCharge is an energy company that developed and markets Smart Bricks -- bricks that store energy. VCharge says Smart Bricks can save customers up to 25% on their heating bills. The campany is already working with PPL in Pennsylvania. VCharge president George Baker will be on Tuesday's program to discuss the technology and other renewable energies.

Radio Smart Talk 10/08/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

As part of witf's continuing Election 2012 coverage, David Freed, the Republican candidate for Pennsylvania Attorney General will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk. The Attorney General is Pennsylvania's top law enforcement officer in criminal matters, represents the state in legal proceedings brought by and against the Commonwealth and reviews all rules and regulations proposed by state agencies. Freed currently serves as Cumberland County's District Attorney. His opponents are Democrat Kathleen Kane and Liberatrian Marakay Rogers. Also, the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU's Law School, which bills itself as the leading non-partisan source of voting rights research in the country, says, "Every voter restriction that has been challenged this year has been either enjoined, blocked or weakened. It has been an extraordinary string of victories for those opposing these laws.” A week after an injunction was issued delaying implementation of Pennsylvania's Voter ID law, we'll discuss voter rights with Keesha Gaskins, the Senior Counsel in Brennan's Democracy Program.

Radio Smart Talk 10/05/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

John Maher, the Republican candidate for Pennsylvania Auditor General will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. Maher will discuss why he wants to be the state's top fiscal watchdog, what plans he has for the office and why he believes he is the best candidate for the position. Maher, who is from Allegheny County, currently serves in the State House of Representatives. His opponent is Democrat Eugene DePasquale of York County, who will appear on Radio Smart Talk Monday, October 15. Radio Smart Talk will discuss the issues with the statewide candidates throughout the month of October as part of witf's Election 2012 coverage.

Radio Smart Talk 10/04/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

We all have favorite books. Books we've read that stay with us for the rest of our lives -- the ones we enjoyed so much that the books actually had an impact on how we think or look at something. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll discuss those books and why they've become such a large part of our lives. Joining us will be Catherine Lawrence -- a writer and historian, who also is one of the owners of the MidTown Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg and blogger Jon Walker, who writes book reviews at www.jonosbookreviews.com. Both guests have listed their favorites, will provide a brief synopsis, and explain why the books on their lists are so important to them. We would like to hear from you as well. What are you favorite books and why?

Radio Smart Talk 10/03/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Pennsylvania leads the nation in the number of structurally deficient bridges with close to 4,800 (according to the PA Dept. of Transportation) and also has thousands of miles of roads that are rated as poor. Everyone agrees the state's transportation infrastrucure is in dire need of repairs and upgrades. The problem is how to pay for it, especially at a time when the state is facing many fiscal challenges. A study conducted several years ago found the state had a $1.7 billion annual shortfall in funding for transportation needs. Last year, Gov. Tom Corbett's Transportation Funding Advisory Commission recommended proposals that would generate $2.5 billion each year. So far, neither Gov. Corbett nor lawmakers have adopted those plans or offered alternative funding sources. Auditor General Jack Wagner says we can't wait any longer and is calling on the governor and legislature to make transportation funding a top of the list priority. Wagner will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss transportation funding as well as money problems with the Pennsylvania Turnpike and municipal pensions. In your opinion, how should Pennsylvania pay for its transportation needs?

Radio Smart Talk 10/02/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act won't be fully implemented for at least another year-and-a-half. If it survives what could be a new Congress next year, there are sure to be many questions about the healthcare law, as it is still called by some. Perhaps, no other action by the federal government in recent years has generated as much controversy, angst, questions, and confusion. Radio Smart Talk has focused on the ACA several times in the last few months and new questions always arise. On Tuesday's program, we'll attempt to dispel some misconceptions, and ask questions like who benefits and pays for the benefits of the Act and how much of a role will personal responsibility play in the future costs of healthcare? Joining us will be Scott Malan, Senior Vice President, Federal Government Affairs for the Stevens and Lee Law Firm in Harrisburg and a longtime lobbyist in the health care field and Dr. Joseph Anderson, Affiliated Adjunct Professor of Business, Economics, and Public Administration at Penn State, Susquehanna University, Lancaster General School of Nursing, Elizabethtown College, Eastern University, and HACC. What questions do you have about the healthcare law? Below are photos from the live show, including large binders containing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which should give a good idea of just how large the act is.

Radio Smart Talk 10/01/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Think about how much the United States has changed since the Constitution was adopted 225 years ago. Transportation was by horseback, carriages, and wagons. Written communication was done through newspapers or pamphlets. Word of mouth was how most Americans communicated. Those conditions are one of the biggest reasons the Constitution's framers decided a president should be chosen by an Electoral College. A direct popular vote by the people didn't seem practical at the time because voters couldn't learn much about the candidates over the wide area of 13 states along the Atlantic Coastline. Today, communication is instantaneous, not only in the 50 states, but around the world. For that reason alone, some argue the Electoral College is outdated and should be replaced. Others go as far as saying the Electoral College is just unfair. We'll take a look at how we elect a president on Monday's Radio Smart Talk with political analaysts, Dr. Jim Hoefler of Dickinson College and Dr. G. Terry Madonna of Franklin and Marshall College. Radio Smart Talk will also address whether a bad campaign translates into a bad presidency and preview the first presidential debate between President Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney.

Radio Smart Talk 09/28/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The word legendary is probably used to describe celebrities in today's culture much too often. But when the word is applied in front of Jim Thorpe's name -- it fits and actually may not be a strong enough adjective. Thorpe arguably was America's top athlete of all time. While a student at the Carlisle Indian School in Cumberland County, he won two gold medals in the 1912 Olympic Games in Stockholm and was an All-America football player. Later he played Major League baseball and professional football. Thorpe's athletic feats are what constitute the legend. The man himself was much more than what he did on the field and unfortunately much of Thorpe's life was not nearly as glorious. In fact, sad or unfulfilled may be the best ways to describe Thorpe's life away from sports. Kate Buford, the author of the book Native American Son: The Life and Sporting Legend of Jim Thorpe, will appear on Friday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss an American icon that many don't know a whole lot about.

Radio Smart Talk 09/27/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The American Cancer Society says research shows people who use tanning beds are much more likely to develop melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, than those who never did. The Cancer Society also quoted findings from an International Agency for Cancer Research study that said the chance of developing skin cancer increases by 75% among those who frequented tanning beds before the age of 30. With those statistics in mind, Republican State Representative RoseMarie Swanger of Lebanon County has proposed legislation that would ban anyone under the age of 18 from using an indoor, commercial tanning bed. As part of witf's Emmy Award and Edward R. Murrow Award winning Facing Cancer Together Initiative, Rep. Swanger and Penn State Hershey Medical Center Dr. Gavin Robertson, who has studied melanoma extensively, will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. Also, Jeff Hughes, the Executive Producer of the new documentary, Why We Dance: The Story of THON (Thursday 9 p.m. witf-TV) will discuss the film on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk.

Radio Smart Talk 09/26/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Central Pennsylvania is home to several well respected universities and colleges that are considered anchor institutions in their communities. Millersville University is certainly one of them in Lancaster County and throughout the State System of Higher Education. Much of the school's success in recent years has been attributed to the leadership of President Dr. Francine McNairy, who is leaving Millersville after nine years. During that time, the university has seen many changes, including raising student enrollment to around 8,700 and the minority student population to 11% -- it's highest level ever. New programs have been added and new buildings constructed and acquired. All this comes at a time when budgets are tight. Millersville hasn't been without episodes of fiscal pain either. Dr. McNairy will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk as part of our semi-regular discussions with Central Pennsylvania academic leaders to discuss Millersville, its future, higher education and the institution's role in the community.

Radio Smart Talk 09/25/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Tuesday is the final day of former President Bill Clinton's annual conference of the Clinton Global Initiative. President Barack Obama and his Republican challenger Mitt Romney will speak to more than a thousand current and former heads of state, Fortune 500 CEOs, and non-profit sector leaders who have gathered to address the world's most pressing challenges and find solutions to them. Among the attendees is former Pennsylvania Congresswoman Marjorie Margolies, who is the founder and CEO of Women's Campaign International, an organization that promotes women in leadership roles around the world. Congresswoman Margolies will join us on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the Clinton Global Initiative and her efforts to bring empower women worldwide.

Radio Smart Talk 09/24/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Convicted murderer Terrance “Terry” Williams is the first man set to be executed in Pennsylvania in thirteen years. But his lawyers are trying to save the 46-year-old man’s life just ahead of his October 3rd execution date. Last week, the state Board of Pardons voted 3-2 to recommend Governor Corbett to grant clemency to Williams. The decision fell short of the unanimous vote needed for the Governor to do so. So, in a last attempt to save their client from being executed next month, Williams’ attorneys are asking the board to reconsider its decision. But there are several issues complicating the case. Allegations are swirling that Williams, who has been convicted of killing two men in 1984, was sexually abused by his victims as a boy. There are also questions regarding the withholding of evidence at his 1986 trial. On Monday’s Radio Smart Talk, we’ll talk about the case and the treatment of capital offenders in Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Karen Langley, who's been covering the case, weighs in. Associate Professor Jules Epstein from Widener Law will also join the conversation. Epstein has represented several death row inmates in Pennsylvania and teaches courses on criminal law and evidence. Spero Lappas, an attorney and Pennsylvanians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty board member, will also serve as a guest.

Radio Smart Talk 09/21/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

More than 10,000 Pennsylvania students in grades 7 through 12 dropped out of school during the 2010-2011 academic year. Many of those students are from central Pennsylvania, which posts some of the highest dropout rates in the state. At a time when jobs are hard to come by, teachers, parents, and administrators are trying to prevent vulnerable students from dropping out, but many are falling through the cracks. On Friday’s Radio Smart Talk, we’ll look at Pennsylvania’s high school droputs, and hear about what’s being done to boost the commonwealth’s high school graduation rate of about 80 percent. The program is part of the American Graduate: Let's Make It Happen public media initiative on witf. Appearing on the show are Pedro Rivera, superintendent of The School District of Lancaster, and Michael Race, communications director for Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children.

Radio Smart Talk 09/20/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

As most people are aware, there are many changes coming to healthcare as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is fully implemented within the next two years. One of the ACA's requirements is that non-profit hospitals conduct a community health needs assessment every three years. The assessment is designed to "evaluate the existing healthcare landscape" according to a release. Three Central Pennsylvania healthcare organizations just completed an assessment for this area. Holy Spirit Health System, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and PinnacleHealth System collaborated for the report. In general terms, what the assessment found is that the region "needs additional information and services that promote healthy lifestyles and make health education and healthcare easier to access." The assessment also found that downtown Harrisburg has one of the highest rates of uninsured residents in the state and that children in Dauphin, Lebanon, and Perry Counties were above the state rate of obesity. Appearing on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the assessment findings are Barbara Terry, Vice President for Mission Effectiveness with PinnacleHealth and Judy Dillon, Community Outreach Coordinator at Penn State Hershey Medical Center.

Radio Smart Talk 09/19/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Malaysia, Pakistan...Muslims in these countries and more than a dozen others have been targeting U.S. interests and government facilities with protests that have sometimes led to violence over the past week. In Libya, U.S. Ambassador Christpher Stevens was killed. Meanwhile, although "friendly" forces in Afghanistan have been turning their weapons on American soldiers since 2007, the attacks have increased recently and Americans are wary that they'll be targeted more now. The rage is in response to an obscure film on YouTube, produced by an Egyptian-American, that depicts the Prophet Muhammed in a negative way. Protestors believe the U.S. government should ban the film they find blasphemous. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll get a local perspective on the anti-American protests and violence from Dr. Mehdi Noorbaksh, Associate Professor of International Affairs at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology and Joyce Davis who has written extensively about the Middle East. She is a former foreign correspondent and editor for NPR and Knight Ridder Newspapers. She is now president of the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg. Also, Pennsylvania's elk herd is growing. So much so, that limited hunting of the animals is now permitted. But most Pennsylvanians would rather just enjoy seeing an elk in the wild. Would you? Would you know where to go to see an elk? We'll learn more about Pennsylvania's elk herd from Jerry Feaser of the state Game Commission.

Radio Smart Talk 09/18/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

September 17, 1862 -- 150 years ago Monday -- was the bloodiest day in American history. On that day during the Civil War, the Battle of Antietam was fought near Sharpsburg, Maryland. The Union and Confederate forces suffered some 23,000 casualties, including 3,600 killed. Antietam didn't give either side a decided edge miltarily, but it did have a longlasting impact, especially in how the nation viewed death. In conjunction with the Antietam anniversary, American Experience premieres, Death and the Civil War Tuesday night at 9 on PBS and WITF-TV (view a trailer of the fim here) . The film explores how the staggering and unpredented casualties caused death to enter the American psyche and permanently alter the character of the republic and the role of government. Appearing on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss Antietam, death and the Civil War and the film is historian Dr. Mark Schantz of Birmingham Southern University. Dr. Schantz contributed to the film. Also, as part of witf' Facing Cancer Together initiative, we'll examine awareness of men's prostate health.

Radio Smart Talk 09/17/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

On September 17, 1787, the U.S. Constitution was signed at the State House in Philadelphia. Two-hundred-twenty-five years later, the document is the basis for the principles of our government and on which laws of the land are measured. The Bill of Rights, originally made up of 10 amendments, was added in 1791. Alison Young, Vice President of External Affairs for the National Constitution Center, will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to answer questions about the document's history and how it came to be. For example, historians really don't know who wrote the text of the Constitution. It was probably a collaboration of delegates but it's believed that Gouvernour Morris of Pennsylvania probably contributed the most. Also, 39 delegates signed the document on September 17, but three refused. The Constitution doesn't give rights to Americans -- it guarantees them. One of the most important and frequently asked questions is whether the Constitution is still relevant in today's digital age. In fact, this particular question was the subject of a recent National Constitution Center/Associated Press poll. That should make for a spirited discussion on Monday's program.

Radio Smart Talk 09/14/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

In this election year, both presidential candidates mention the economy in virtually every speech they make. With many still out of work, polls show the economy remains the number one issue on voters’ minds. In Pennsylvania, the business climate is diverse: last year, the commonwealth was third in the nation for corporate growth, with more than 400 new or expanded facilities opening in the state. But while big companies drive the economy in some areas, small businesses are the backbone in others. The state offers several programs and incentives to help attract small businesses, and in central Pennsylvania, there are many initiatives to help small business owners attract customers. On today’s Radio Smart Talk, we’re talking small businesses. Margie Yohn is president of the Palmyra Area Business Association and the owner of BeYohnd Mail & Marketing. She’ll talk “cash mobs” and how they’re helping businesses in the area. Cheryl Irwin-Bass is the vice president of the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She’ll discuss the chamber’s “Think Local” initiative.

Radio Smart Talk 09/13/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Classes began in Pennsylvania's 500 school districts over the past two-and-a-half weeks. The start of the school year is perhaps when most people think about education. There aren't any major wholesale changes in Pennsylvania schools for 2012-2013, but every school year does bring new issues. State Secretary of Education Ronald Tomalis will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to address reforms that have been adopted and others that have been proposed. A new way to evaluate teacher performance is one of the key modifications, although it won't be implemented until the 2013-2014 school year. Up until now, teachers were graded simply by classroom observation and were deemed either satisfactory or unsatisfactory. More than 99% were observed to be satisfactory. Under the new system, student performance, using several different criteria, will make up 50% of a teacher's evaluation and the other half will be determined by classroom observation. We'll address several other issues with Sec. Tomalis, including charter school funding and school choice.

Radio Smart Talk 09/12/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

How the public views former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno has changed a great deal since his former assistant Jerry Sandusky was arrested 10 months ago on charges of sexually assaulting and abusing a number of young boys. Paterno's reputation and legacy were tarnished even more, and perhaps forever, when an independent report by former FBI director Louis Freeh said Paterno helped to cover up at least two of Sandusky's crimes. For many, Paterno is still the legendary coach who won a major college record 409 games, but to others he is a villian who preached honesty and integrity, but failed to report a pedophile who preyed on children . Adding to the debate was the release of award-winning sportswriter Joe Posnanski's biography, Paterno. Since it went on sale two weeks ago, the book has fueled a sometimes heated national discussion of how Posnanski portrayed Paterno. Was he too soft on the 85-year-old who died in January? Or, was the book a balanced examination of a complicated man?

Radio Smart Talk 09/11/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

One year ago this week, Tropical Storm Lee pelted Pennsylvania with between seven and 15 inches of rain. The flooding that resulted damaged thousands of homes and other structures, including hundreds that were destroyed completely. Almost 560 state roads and 145 bridges were closed. At least 13 Pennsylvanians lost their lives. The storm knocked out power to 1.3 million people. A year later, life is still not back to normal for many who were victimized by Lee. Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor James Cawley will appear on Tuesday’s Radio Smart Talk to describe the state’s efforts to recover from the storm and flooding. Also, dozens of Pennsylvania parks and recreational areas are being declared smoke-free zones. As part of the “Young Lungs at Play” program, smokers are being asked to refrain from lighting up cigarettes. The tobacco bans are designed to keep children away from second-hand smoke and to set a good example for them as well. Joining us on the program will be Mary Levasseur, Lancaster General Health's Manager for Community Health & Wellness and Judy Ochs, Director of the Division of Tobacco Prevention and Control for the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Radio Smart Talk 09/10/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Democratic and Republican conventions are over and the election is just eight weeks away. By most measures, the two main parties appear to be further apart than any time in recent memory. We live in a partisan and, some would say, very divided country. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, witf will launch a new initiative called the Public Insight Network. PIN is described as a way for witf's various audiences to share their insights, knowledge and expertise with journalists to make news coverage more accurate, relevant, transparent and trustworthy. witf’s very first "query" amounts to a set of questions about your opinions on politics. The questions include what party you most identify with and why. We'll begin Monday's program with a discussion of the parties and their philosophies. We'll then turn to PIN and explain how you can participate and why it's important.

Radio Smart Talk 09/07/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 7 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

On June 26, 1928, Babe Ruth smacked a long home run over the right field fence for the defending World Champion New York Yankees. That's not so unusual since Ruth blasted 54 homers that year and set a Major League record by hitting 60 in 1927. What's noteworthy about this particular home run was baseball's all-time greatest player hit it on City Island in Harrisburg against the old Harrisburg Senators in an exhibition game. That's just one of hundreds of stories in Andrew Linker's One Patch of Grass – a book that chronicles the history of baseball on City Island. Linker will appear on Friday's Radio Smart Talk to tell stories about Ruth, some of the all-time great African-American baseball players who played on City Island but were banned from playing with whites in the Major Leagues, and one of the sport's most successful minor league franchises – today's Harrisburg Senators. Also, the world's first underwater marathon will be held Sunday, September 9 in Hershey to benefit wounded military special forces soldiers. The idea developed when a former pro football player suggested veterans injured in combat would benefit from therapy in water just like athletes. On Friday's program, we'll hear from one former soldier and Anson Flake, the CEO and co-founder of HydroWorx, the Middletown company that makes the underwater treadmills.

Radio Smart Talk 09/06/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 6 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Economic History Association says that in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, British tax assessors used ownership or occupancy of property to estimate a taxpayer's ability to their obligations to the king. As far back as 1905, the property tax was called "one of the worst taxes ever used by a civilized nation." The property tax is still not popular today and contrary to what the British crown thought, many believe it's unfair and does not represent a person's ability to pay. Over the past 30 years, there have been several efforts to eliminate property taxes and find alternative forms of taxation to fund local school districts and governments in Pennsylvania. However, as unpopular as the property tax is, there isn't enough agreement on how to make up the revenue it generates. There are several property tax reform or elimination proposals currently in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we’ll focus on them. Rep. Seth Grove (R-York), who has proposed one of the bills, will join us. Later in the program, local school board member and government reform activist Tim Potts also will appear.

Radio Smart Talk 09/05/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 5 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The drought that has left more than half the country parched will impact Central Pennsylvania in the form of higher food prices in the coming months. While 3-4 inches of rain is forecasted for the region this week, parts of the Midwest and South haven't received that much rain this year. Corn has been especially hard hit and that's bad news because corn is used for more than just human consumption. Corn feeds livestock, is used in ethanol production and is an ingredient in many products. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, the discussion will focus on how Pennsylvanians will be affected by the drought, especially at the grocery store. The broader conversation will be what actually determines commodity prices. There are other factors at work too – the cost of diesel fuel actually contributes more to the price of a box of corn flakes than what wholesalers pay for corn. From a consumer's point of view, there's no reason for optimism there because diesel fuel used in farm equipment is hovering around $4 per gallon. Appearing on the Wednesday program will be Jon Hart, the owner of Keystone Commodities and Chris Brand of Giant Food Stores.

Radio Smart Talk 09/04/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 4 Sep 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Pennsylvania is home to some 140 wineries and many more people are visiting a winery or several in a day's time as part of about a dozen wine trails throughout the state. It doesn't necessarily mean there’s more wine drinking but it does translate into Pennsylvania wines sometimes becoming the wine of choice. Often, that wine is being consumed with a meal and not just on special occasions. On Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, Chef Donna Marie Desfor, who writes witf's Food Wednesday column and Michael Wilson, a partner at the Vineyards at Hershey and COO of Hershey-Harrisburg Wine Country, will join us discuss and answer your questions about food and wine. Also, the Democratic National Convention is being held this week in Charlotte, North Carolina to re-nominate President Obama. Franklin and Marshall College political analyst and pollster, Dr. G. Terry Madonna, will provide a live report from Charlotte.

Radio Smart Talk 08/31/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Friday's Radio Smart Talk will put the spotlight on organ donation. Joining us will be John Green, the director of Community Relations for the Gift of Life Donor Program to answer questions about organ and tissue donation. You may be surprised at how many questions and myths surround organ donations. For example, a study released earlier this year found that about a quarter of the respondents believed doctors wouldn't try to save the life of someone designated as a donor. Others thought that they couldn't donate because they have a history of illness or that they were too old to donate. About 80,000 people across the country are awaiting organ transplants. Some will die while they're still waiting. Also joining us on the program will a Middletown man who is a kidney recipient and another Pennsylvanian whose son is waiting for a suitable liver.

Radio Smart Talk 08/30/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

On Thursday's show, Danny S. Parker, author of the book Fatal Crossroads – The Untold Story of the Malmedy Massacre will appear to describe one of the worst atrocities committed against Americans in World War II. On December 17, 1944, a non-combat unit – Company B of the U.S. Army’s 285th Field Artillery Observation Battalion – was attacked by a German SS tank column near Malmedy, Belguim. The Americans put up little resistance before being ordered into a field where the Germans opened fire and killed more than 80. Parker will discuss what prompted the attack. Many of the victims of the massacre were Pennsylvania natives. Also, as part of witf's Facing Cancer Together initiative, Radio Smart Talk examines one of the most difficult aspects of a cancer diagnosis – personal finances while living and being treated for cancer.

Radio Smart Talk 08/29/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

A bold move by the region's most dominant newspaper…The Patriot-News has announced it will begin publishing only three days a week in January, but continue to report the news on its website, PennLive.com all seven days a week. Publisher John Kirkpatrick said the changes were needed to move the paper into the future and added it wasn't part of a cost-cutting plan. The newspaper industry has suffered over the past decade and resulted in declining revenues. The Patriot-News' circulation has dipped from 176,000 copies in 1992 to 118,000 today, according to a report on PennLive.com. The newspaper's owner, Advance Publications, announced a similar change at its newspaper in New Orleans earlier this year that is about to go in effect. Cate Barron, the Patriot-News Executive Editor, will join us on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to explain what to expect and the thinking behind the realignment. We’ll also hear from the Poynter Institute School of Journalism.

Radio Smart Talk 08/28/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 withstood a Constitutional challenge earlier this year. Unless a new Congress votes to overturn the entire healthcare law or portions of it, the law will be implemented in its entirety by 2014. The Affordable Care Act or ACA was designed in part to reduce the number of Americans who don't have health insurance. The ACA requires everyone to have health insurance or face penalties. Under the law, states are supposed to set up health insurance exchanges where individuals or businesses with up to 100 employees can purchase insurance. If a state doesn't establish an exchange, the federal government will. States have until November to plan for the exchanges. Pennsylvania does not have exchanges in place as of yet. The discussion on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will center on the questions surrounding the exchanges from the insurance underwriters' perspective. What questions do you have about health insurance exchanges or purchasing insurance relating to the Affordable Care Act?

Radio Smart Talk 08/27/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

As of right now, Pennsylvanians who go to vote in this November's election must produce an approved form of identification before casting a ballot. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court will hear arguments next month from those who object to the state's new voter ID law but in the meantime, preparations continue for the election as if the law will be in place. Several Radio Smart Talk programs have focused on voter ID but we've yet to produce a show to just answer questions about the law, especially how someone without an ID goes about obtaining one. That's just what we'll do on Monday's program. Ron Ruman from the Pennsylvania Department of State will answer practical questions about the law. witf's Capitol Bureau Chief Mary Wilson joins us as well to provide the latest information on voter ID. More information about obtaining an ID can be found online or by calling the Department of State's Voter ID hotline at 1-877-VOTES-PA (868-3772). Also, Monday is the first day of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida. We’ll get a report from Tampa on what to expect and any news on the Pennsylvania delegation from Franklin and Marshall College political analyst, Dr. G. Terry Madonna.

Radio Smart Talk 08/24/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Remember when you were in elementary school? Often, one of the favorite times of the week was going to the school library to pick out a book to borrow. Later on in middle and high school, the library became a workplace that provided resources for research you were doing or a quiet place to study. Those type of activities are still going on inside school libraries, but there's a lot more too. A survey conducted by the Pennsylvania State Board of Education found that three-quarters of school libraries have purchased computers in the last five years and most librarians spend from six to 21 hours each week motivating students to read. Friday's Radio Smart Talk will open the book on school libraries in Pennsylvania to determine what role they play in today's education process, especially in the digital age. Appearing on the program will be Debra Kachel of the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association and Dr. Mary Kay Biagini, who is with the school of information services at the University of Pittsburgh.

Radio Smart Talk 08/23/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

There is good and bad news about teen pregnancy in the United States. The good news…and it is very good news...is that teen pregnancy rates are at their lowest level in 40 years. That is an astounding statistic. On the negative side though – the U.S. still has the highest teen pregnancy rate amongst developed countries in the world – by far. Why are fewer teenagers getting pregnant? Is it because as a group they're having less sex? Are parents talking to teens about sex and its ramifications more? Are sex education courses in schools influencing students? Are young people using contraceptives more often or more effectively? Maybe public service campaigns are working? On Thursday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll address all those questions and others with Dr. Jennifer May, the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Center for Adolescent Health and Deborah Gable, Director of Education for Planned Parenthood of Central Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 08/22/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

You've probably heard people say they long for a simpler time. What does that really mean? Is a simpler time when there were no computers or are they looking to go back even further to when all televisions were black and white and gas cost 30 cents a gallon? Maybe a simpler time is just a perception of the past. Life today is complicated and fast-paced. Our society utilizes many devices that are considered time-saving or to make life easier. But do they really? Elizabethtown College in Lancaster County offers a seminar called "The Simple Life" that challenges students to "step back, examine their lives and consider living an alternative lifestyle characterized by less consumption, greater awareness of their surroundings and productive action." Students are also asked to "reconsider living in a world founded on materialism and consumerism, and instead, address the wastefulness of our society and seek sustainable alternatives." The award-winning seminar instructor, Dr. Michele Kozimor-King, an associate professor of sociology at Elizabethtown, will be on guest on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss the seminar and the idea behind it.

Radio Smart Talk 08/21/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Do women invest differently than men? The answer from most financial advisers is yes. A recent survey from Investment News indicates that women are more conservative and cautious when they invest. It's an important issue too because on average, women will outlive their husbands and will need more savings to retire on. Based strictly on averages, women earn 76 cents to every dollar a man is paid and spend about ten fewer years in the workforce to raise children or care for an elderly parent, so saving for retirement is even more important. Appearing on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will be Tara Mashack-Behney, the Director of Investment Consulting with Conrad Siegel Actuaries in Harrisburg to discuss women and investing.

Radio Smart Talk 08/20/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

A gold medal in the Olympic games is a crowning achievement for the athlete who wins it. All the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication that went into training finally seem justified. For many gold medalists, their moment of glory is crystalized when they are on the victory stand hearing their country's national anthem being played. The gold medalist's life is probably never the same. That athlete will forever be identified as an Olympic gold medalist. It will be their legacy. The hometowns of gold medal winning athletes almost always celebrate the athlete's accomplishments – mostly because of pride and also because not many places can claim Olympic gold medalists as their own. Sometimes there are parades or there may be a welcome sign informing visitors that the town or city is the home of a famous Olympic athlete. Here in Central Pennsylvania, Lebanon is honoring its own gold medalist – Jamie Gray. Jamie won a gold medal in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London two weeks ago in the 50-meter, three position rifle shooting competition. It is believed she is the first gold medalist from Lebanon County.

Radio Smart Talk 08/17/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

A traumatic brain injury occurs when there is a sudden trauma to the brain. Most occur on the roadways in vehicle crashes. A concussion is considered a mild form of traumatic brain injury but even concussions can turn into something very serious. Some 1.4 million people experience what's referred to as TBIs each year. About 50,000 of them will die from their injuries. Severe TBIs often result in the patient suffering seizures or other long term effects. The prognosis and treatment of people who sustain brain injuries have improved over the years. We'll learn how much on Friday's Radio Smart Talk. Appearing on the program will be Dr. Hugh Gregory, the medical director of inpatient rehabilitation at WellSpan Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital.

Radio Smart Talk 08/16/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Another chapter was written Wednesday in the saga of Pennsylvania's controversial voter ID law. Commonwealth Court Judge Robert Simpson upheld the law that requires voters to show a state-approved form of identification before casting a ballot this fall. Critics of the law have vowed to appeal the ruling. The Republican majority General Assembly passed the law to eliminate voter fraud. Opponents say the law is designed to disenfranchise perhaps hundreds of thousands of poor, minority or senior citizen voters who don’t have IDs. Thursday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on continued legal efforts to appeal or at least delay implementation of the voter ID law and what the state is doing to bring more eligible voters into compliance. Also, the Middle State Commission on Higher Education issued a warning to Penn State University earlier this week that its accreditation could be in jeopardy for how the school handled child sex abuse allegations against former assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky. Joining us will be a Vice President from the American Council on Education to discuss how likely that is.

Radio Smart Talk 08/15/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Turn on any cable news channel or the nightly network newscast for the next three months and you'll see the presidential candidates' campaign rallies. Casually dressed candidates President Obama or Mitt Romney will no doubt criticize the opponent and maybe make a joke or two. A few shots of the crowd cheering wildly will be mixed in. The rallies are not only meant to get voters in key states excited, but to convey a message to a national TV audience. Make no mistake about it, the campaigns want to control the message voters are receiving. On Wednesday’s Radio Smart Talk, we'll look at how they're doing that and hear from a veteran radio reporter in Philadelphia who was told by one of the campaigns to stop talking to voters outside a rally. Also on the program will be Franklin and Marshall College political analyst and pollster, Dr. G. Terry Madonna, who will discuss how Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan's presence on the Republican presidential ticket will impact Pennsylvania voters.

Radio Smart Talk 08/14/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

South Central Pennsylvania is still considered rural compared to the population centers of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. That's why it surprises many to hear the region has some of the dirtiest air in the country. An American Lung Association report last April said the Harrisburg-Lebanon-Carlisle metropolitan area has the nation's 17th worst daily particle or soot pollution and the Lancaster metro has the country's 29th worst Ozone or smog pollution. Actually the region showed a slight improvement in air quality from the year before but not enough to escape the rankings. Another report last week -- this one from the National Resources Defense Council -- indicates Pennsylvania generates the third most toxic air pollutants nationally. The report blamed coal-fired power plants for 78% of the toxins emitted from the state. The focus oif Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will be air quality -- why its dirty, what can be done to keep the air clean and what problems it causes for humans and the environment. Guests include Kevin Stewart of the American Lung Association and Katie Feeney of the Clean Air Council.

Radio Smart Talk 08/13/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Unemployed workers, who are 50 and older, are finding it difficult to get new jobs and when they do, they often aren't making as much money as they were before. The U.S. Department of Labor says older workers are less likely to become unemployed in the first place. The jobless rate for those 50 to 61 is around 7%, compared to the overall national average of more than 8%. However, it takes the 50 and older unemployed from six months to more than a year to find a new job. When they do, they're often being paid less. Over 50 workers who are reemployed are earning 27% less than what they were making at their previous job. For those over 62, it's almost half as much. Why are older workers having so much trouble getting a new job, especially at their former salaries? There is evidence that some employers are concerned that older workers skills aren't up to date and that they may have to pay higher insurance premiums. Is that a factor? Are older workers being discriminated against? To discuss the challenges facing older workers on Monday's program are Shannon Powers of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission and Ray Landis of AARP Pennsylvania.

Radio Smart Talk 08/10/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Earlier this week, many watched in anticipation as NASA's latest Mars rover landed on the red planet after "seven minutes of terror," the time spanning the Curiosity rover's entrance into the Martian atmosphere to its eventual landing. Millions of people around the world have since seen the breathtaking pictures the $2.5 billion rover's sent back to Earth as part of its mission to investigate Mars' geology. But what many may not be aware of is the Curiosity rover's tie to central Pennsylvania. Lancaster County-based Weaver Industries, Inc. was instrumental in formatting some of the rover's parts used to help manage Mars' overwhelming heat. On today's Radio Smart Talk, we'll hear from John Weaver, president of Weaver Industries, as well as two employees who worked on the project. We'll also take a look at how amputees are able to face and overcome challenges. South African sprinter Oscar Pistorius is making headlines as the first-ever double leg amputee to compete in the Olympics. We'll hear the stories of two midstate men who are also amputees.

Radio Smart Talk 08/09/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Affordable Care Act, that was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court last month is a multilayered law. Parts of the law have already been implemented, such as allowing children to stay on their parent's insurance plan up until the age of 26. That's one segment that is popular with the public. The full law will not take effect for a few more years. Until it is, there are critics who will continue to try and tweak it or even repeal it completely. There are those who like portions of the ACA but not all of it. Thursday's guest on Radio Smart Talk is one of them. Dr. Donald Palmisano is the former president of the American Medical Association. He now represents the Coalition to Protect Patient Rights. Dr. Palmisano would like to see aspects of the law stay intact, but he says he is most concerned with its impact on Medicaid and Medicare.

Radio Smart Talk 08/08/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Great Recession began in December 2007 and officially ended seventeen months later. Economic conditions have been slowly improving ever since, even though it doesn't seem like it to many Americans, especially those who lost jobs or didn't find employment making as much money as they once did. In fact, the unemployment situation is one of the most frustrating aspects of the recovery. Just last week, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 166,000 new jobs were added across the country in July, but at the same time, the jobless rate went up to 8.3% -- the same as it was last January. Very rarely do we seem to get positive news about the economy today without something negative to offset it a few days later. For example, energy costs overall are steady or down – mostly because of the low costs of natural gas – but the price of gasoline fluctuates and is now on an upward trend. Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on the state of the economy today and where it may go in the near future. Joining us will be Dr. Thomas Kinnaman, the Chair of the Economics Department at Bucknell University and Jeffrey Roof, president and founder of Roof Advisory Group, an investment and financial planning firm in Harrisburg.

Radio Smart Talk 08/07/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

As part of witf's Facing Cancer Together initiative, Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on the role clinical trials play in treating cancer. All cancer treatments used today were first shown to be effective through clinical trials -- using humans for research, testing, and studies. That's why clinical trials are so critical and will continue to be significant. According to the National Cancer Institute, "clinical trials are the final step in a long process that begins with research in a lab and animal testing." In cancer, clinical trials are designed to answer questions about new ways to: - Treat cancer - Find and diagnose cancer - Prevent cancer - Manage symptoms of cancer or side effects from its treatment Appearing on Tuesday's program are Dr. David Claxton, hematolgist/oncologist and professor at Penn State's Hershey Cancer Institute and Dr. Anthony Olszanski, director of Clinical Pharmacology, Temple University's Fox Chase Cancer Center. Also, the Emerald Ash Borer has made a return visit to Pennsylvania this year and threatens ash trees across the state. The state Department of Agriculture reports that the invasive insect has been detected in 28 counties and has prompted a warning to those buying firewood this summer to burn it where they bought it.

Radio Smart Talk 08/06/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

This week is Assistance Dog Week -- a time to bring attention to the dogs that help thousands of disabled Americans in their everyday lives. Service dogs can be seen everywhere in our society -- so much so that many of us don't really know what the dogs are trained to do and what services they provide. On Monday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll be joined by Nancy Fierer, the Executive Directror of Susquehanna Service Dogs/Keystone Human Services, who will discuss the role of service dogs, how they're trained, the protocol for where service dogs can go in public and how to greet someone with a service dog. There are several types of service dogs including guide dogs that assist those with sight impairments, but other service dogs alert people with hearing challenges, or pull wheelchairs or carry or pick up things for people who have mobility limitations. Kelly Hitz, the Development Specialist with Susquehanna Service Dogs, will have a dog in our studio, so we'll hear first-hand about the animals.

Radio Smart Talk 08/03/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Three midstate journalists will appear on Friday's Radio Smart Talk to provide insight into several stories making news and on the minds of Pennsylvanians. Joining us will be Gil Smart, the associate editor and columnist for the Lancaster Sunday News, Mary Wilson, witf's Capitol Bureau Chief and John Micek, who covers the state house and writes the Capitol Ideas blog for the Allentown Morning Call. Among the stories we'll look at are Pennsylvania's controversial Voter ID law that has been in court the last two weeks, a perceived lack of enthusiasm for the presidential campaigns, Chick-fil-A's record sales day on Wednesday, and the Summer Olympics.

Radio Smart Talk 08/02/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The weather forecast for the rest of the week is high temperatures in the 90s. How often this summer have you thought that "it's too hot to make dinner in the kitchen tonight?" Fortunately, Chef Donna Marie Desfor has a few ideas on how to craft a great tasting dinner that won't take a lot of time to prepare or leave you hungry and can be put together without using the hot stove or oven. Chef Desfor, who writes the Food Wednesday column on witf.org, will appear on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk to describe a few of her recipes. Chef Desfor has also promised to bring along several ideas for refreshing drinks during the hot weather.

Radio Smart Talk 08/01/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:17:26 -0400

About two-thirds of American homes have companion animals or pets. If ask, the majority would say their pet is a member of the family. Most of the dogs and cats we have as pets are loved and cared for. Unfortunately, there may be as many animals that don't homes, are abandoned, don't receive the kind of care they need, or are abused. Regrettably, these animals often wander the streets, don't get enough food, and are sick. There are compassionate people and organizations that are working to help. Two of them will appear on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk – Castaway Critters and the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter will be represented on the program to discuss their efforts to place dogs and cats in loving homes and control the population through spaying and neutering. Did you know? -26% of dogs are purchased from breeders -20-30% of dogs and cats are adopted from shelters and rescues -Most pets are obtained from friends or family members -25% of dogs who enter shelters are purebred -10% of animals at shelters have been spayed or neutered -It’s estimated there are up to 70 million stray cats in the U.S.

Radio Smart Talk 07/31/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The November election is just over three months away. Almost every day, there's a new poll on the presidential race between President Barack Obama and challenger Mitt Romney. However, there aren't nearly as many polls that ask voters about their preferences on statewide offices in Pennsylvania. One of the season's first came late last week from Public Policy Polling. It asked Pennsylvanians who they favor between U.S. candidate Bob Casey Jr. and Tom Smith; Attorney General nominees David Freed and Kathleen Kane; Auditor General contenders Eugene DePasquale and John Maher and the two Treasurer candidates Rob McCord and Diana Irey-Vaughan. Entire results can be found here. On Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll learn what Pennsylvanians are thinking about the candidates, Gov. Tom Corbett's performance, the state's new voter ID law and the late Penn State football coach Joe Paterno. Also, StateImpact PA reporter Scott Detrow updates a methane gas migration problem from a Bradford County natural gas drilling site.

Radio Smart Talk 07/30/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

If one does a Google search on the term “brain drain” related to Pennsylvania, they’ll find many articles from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s. Does that mean the outward migration of young, educated people from Pennsylvania to larger cities or southern states has stopped? Over the past decade there seems to a bit more of a “brain gain” in midtstate cities. More young people are deciding to live, work, and play in the region’s urban centers. The city of Harrisburg is a good example. The 2010 U.S. Census showed Harrisburg had more 24-36 years olds than ten years before. If a change has occurred and more young people are staying close to home, it probably is due to a concerted effort to keep them here. Young Professional organizations throughout the region have made stopping the best and brightest from leaving a goal. Have they been successful? On Monday’s Radio Smart Talk, we’ll talk to two organizations about brain drain, planning for midstate cities’ futures, especially economically, and how young people are civically engaged. Appearing on the program will be Meron Yemane, president of Harrisburg Young Professionals and Michael Wilson, president of Carlisle Young Professionals.

Radio Smart Talk 07/27/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The 2010 Affordable Care Act was designed to reduce the number of uninsured across the nation. What it didn’t do for the most part is address the millions of Americans who have no dental insurance. Poor children in particular often go without regular checkups, preventive care and fillings when a tooth is decayed. Fortunately, there are organizations offering dental care to children at little or no cost. St. Joseph’s Health Ministries in Lancaster County is one of them. Their oral health initiative Brush. Brush. Smile! provides free dental care to economically disadvantaged children through two buses that are in effect mobile clinics. On this Radio Smart Talk, we’ll meet Dr. Robert Russo, the project’s dentist and Sean Reynolds, the president and CEO of St. Joseph Health Ministries. Also, we’ll explore community gardens with Lisa Sanchez a naturalist with the Lancaster County Parks and Recreation Department.

Radio Smart Talk 07/26/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thurs, 26 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

In a world where tragedy seemingly occurs every day, the rescue of the Quecreek Nine in Somerset County ten years ago is a story that not only had a happy ending, but was a prime example of team work and heroism. On July 24, 2002, nine coal miners became trapped underground at the Quecreek Mine when a second adjoining mine was inadvertently breached – sending millions of gallons of water into Quecreek. Over the next 77 hours, the world watched as rescuers, engineers, and many others used technology and ingenuity to bring the miners up alive from 240 feet underground. On this Radio Smart Talk, we’ll look back at Quecreek with former Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweicker, whose leadership made him one of the heroes in the rescue, and Joseph Sbaffoni, who led the rescue efforts in 2002 and today is director of the Pennsylvania Bureau of Mine Safety. We’ll examine this history making event and what has changed in mine safety since then.

Radio Smart Talk 07/25/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

A few weeks ago, a Radio Smart Talk listener encouraged us to feature a program on copyrights and free exchange of information. It is a very timely topic. With the technology available to us and our use of the internet, social media and new gadgets and devices, there are unending opportunities to access, copy or download materials that may be copyrighted. Or maybe not. Maybe they’re in the public domain. On Wednesday’s program, we’ll be joined by Tonya Evans, an associate professor of law at the Widener School of Law with expertise in the areas of intellectual property and entertainment law. Many of us share content we see but are we doing it legally and how do we find out for sure? Tune in to get answers to those questions and more.

Radio Smart Talk 07/24/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tues, 24 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The most severe punishment ever handed out by the NCAA to a college football program is still being digested by the Penn State faithful and the rest of the nation. Sanctions against Penn State include a $60 million fine, a four-year post-season ban, a reduction of 10 football scholarships in each of the next four years, and vacating 112 wins from 1998 and 2011. The unprecedented NCAA actions came in response to Penn State officials' failure to report former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky's sexual assault of a young boy in a locker room and then trying to cover it up. On Tuesday's program, we'll hear from former Penn State and Pittsburgh Steeler Hall-of-Fame running back Franco Harris and a State College borough councilman who is concerned about how the penalties will affect business. What are your thoughts on the NCAA sanctions?

Radio Smart Talk 07/23/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Penn State football may never be the same. The NCAA announces sanctions against the program Monday morning in response to the investigation conducted by former FBI director Louis Freeh. In his report, Freeh found that university officials, including legendary football coach Joe Paterno, failed to notify authorities after they learned former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky had sexually abused and assaulted at least two boys. Past NCAA sanctions often include a loss of scholarships, a ban from bowl games, and limited television appearances. However, the organization has never punished an athletic program as the result of criminal acts. You can hear the NCAA announcement live at the start on Monday’s Radio Smart Talk program. Afterwards, we’ll have analysis and what the sanctions will mean. Also, the statue of Paterno that stood outside Beaver Stadium was removed Sunday. Penn State president Rodney Erickson said the statue was a source of division that is an obstacle to healing. On Monday’s program, we’ll hear from the man who created the Paterno statue.

Radio Smart Talk 07/20/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

As part of witf's continuing series Facing Cancer Together, Friday's Radio Smart Talk will focus on skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. It is diagnosed in more than two million people each year. Yet, many Americans, especially during the summer months, continue to expose themselves to the harmful rays of the sun without protection while they work, play or are on vacation. Would you know how to recognize skin cancer's warning signs? The ABCD's of Melanoma (from the American Melanoma Foundation website): A sudden or continuous change in the appearance of a mole is a sign that you should see your doctor. The ABCD rule can help you remember the symptoms of melanoma: A for Asymmetry: One half is different than the other half. B for Border Irregularity: The edges are notched, uneven, or blurred. C for Color: The color is uneven. Shades of brown, tan,and black are present. D for Diameter: Diameter is greater than 6 millimeters. Other Melanoma Warning Signs: The appearance of a new bump or nodule Color spreads into surrounding skin redness or swelling beyond the mole pain tenderness itching bleeding oozing scaly appearance Joining us on the program will be dermatologist, Dr. Christine Mackley of Brownstone Dermatology in Hummelstown and Sharon Swanger, a Lebanon County woman whose skin cancer spread to other organs.

Radio Smart Talk 07/19/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Any law related to guns is controversial in Pennsylvania. Such is the case with the law adopted by 30 cities across the state that requires gun owners to report lost or stolen guns. The cities enacted the law to stop straw purchases where someone buys a gun for another person who can’t lawfully possess one. When those guns are sometimes used in the commission of a crime, the buyer often claims the gun was lost or stolen. Critics say it puts the onus on law-abiding gun owners who could be arrested themselves, even if they don’t realize their gun is missing. They have allies in the legislature who say only the state can regulate guns. As a result, legislation is being considered that would allow violators of the cities’ law to sue the city where they were charged and collect damage and attorneys’ fees. The proposal would also permit groups representing their gun owners, such as the National Rifle Association, to sue the cities on behalf of their members. Appearing on Thursday’s Radio Smart Talk to discuss the law will be Lancaster Mayor Rick Gray and NRA PA State Liaison John Hohenwarter.

Radio Smart Talk 07/18/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Maybe you saw the headlines over the past few years that suggested the sagging economy was a good time to start a business. The thinking was that so many jobs were lost that would be entrepreneurs would see an opportunity to venture out on their own. Unfortunately, the Great Recession squashed the dreams of many of those who wanted to start a business. According to the Small Business Administration, the number of startups dropped 12 percent from 844,000 in 2007 to 742,000 in 2010. What does it take to start your own business? What challenges do entrepreneurs face? Is more credit available as the economy slowly improves? What about investors? These are important questions when you consider more jobs have to be created for the economy to grow. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, we ask our guests those questions and find out where small business is going. Joining us will be Cheryl Young, a business consultant with Shippensburg University's Small Business development Center and Shaun Donovan, the Economic Development Specialist for the Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC.

Radio Smart Talk 07/17/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

In most American schools, the nation’s history is taught starting with the Jamestown settlement in Virginia and the Pilgrims in Massachusetts in the 1600s and then skips ahead to the American Revolution in the 1770s. Few of us are familiar with the stories of the challenges and dangers the inhabitants of the North American continent faced in between or before. Pulitzer Prize finalist and author Scott Weidensaul's latest book, The First Frontier – The Forgotten Struggle, Savagery, and Endurance in Early America is one of the most extensive chronicles of the period from when European explorers and settlers arrived in the 16th Century to the French and Indian Wars in the 1760s. Weidensaul will appear on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk to describe this violent, brutal 250-year period when Native Americans and Europeans on the East Coast got to know one another, fought, inter-married, traded goods, and enslaved, kidnapped and killed each other. It is a story not for the faint of heart. Much of Weidensaul's book focuses on Pennsylvania where areas north and west of Harris' Ferry – today's Harrisburg – were considered the wild frontier.

Radio Smart Talk 07/16/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Death is a topic we often don't talk about. It could be one of the reasons more of us aren't prepared for our funerals or haven't conveyed our wishes to family members. More and more people are pre-planning their funerals. Sometimes, they're surprised at how much planning goes into even a small event. Because the discussion doesn't come up often, there are many questions surrounding what becomes of our bodies after death. For example, how to pick out and pay for a burial plot, what's a funeral cost, what goes into the cremation process, or what about being buried "green?" Several funeral directors will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to answer your questions.

Radio Smart Talk 07/13/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The fallout continues from Thursday's release of former FBI director Louis Freeh's internal investigation into how Penn State officials handled the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse case. On Friday's Radio Smart Talk, witf's Capital Bureau Chief Mary Wilson joins us to address reaction to the report from the Penn State Board of Trustees who are meeting in Scranton. In his report, Freeh made more than 100 recommendations to improve policies and procedures at Penn State. We'll hear what the Board had to say. On a non-Penn State related note, the iPhone turned five this summer. The device that started a communications and technology revolution has undergone its own changes since then and continues to evolve. We'll talk to Charles Palmer of Harrisburg University of Science and Technology and witf's audio specialist Joe Ulrich about why the iPhone is so significant and what the future holds.

Radio Smart Talk 07/12/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The final report of the internal investigation into how Penn State and university officials dealt with the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse allegations and the ensuing scandal will be released to the public at 9 a.m. Thursday. We'll have details of former FBI director Louis Freeh's findings as they become available throughout Thursday's Radio Smart Talk. We'll also hear from Bruce Antkowiak, the Director of St. Vincent College's Criminology, Law, and Society program on what the report means and how Penn State will be affected. The Freeh report is expected to describe who knew what and when about former football coach Sandusky, who was convicted last month of sexually assaulting 10 young boys over a 15 year period, if policies and procedures were followed, and whether new rules should be put in place.

Radio Smart Talk 07/11/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

A National Institute of Health funded study published last week reported that research showed a low-carb diet, that emphasized fish, chicken, beef and some fruits and vegetables while avoiding pasta, bread, and potatoes, resulted in about 300 fewer calories than low-fat and Mediterranean type diets. Is it the final word on how to lose or maintain weight? NIH indicated the findings were preliminary and weren't ready to provide a definitive answer. Many Americans are constantly in search of the elusive diet that keeps them at a healthy weight. But apparently, many others aren't because the Centers for Disease Control says 35.7 percent of Americans are considered obese and another 34 percent are overweight. They are at risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Exercise is one key to good health but so is nutrition and eating habits. Joining us on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk is Julie Stefanski, a clinical dietician at York Hospital to address what we eat. Also, the West Nile virus has been detected in Pennsylvania earlier than ever before. It could be because of the mild spring. So far, no humans have been infected but investigators are trying to stay on top of the mosquito population. Matthew Helwig and Andy Kyle of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's Vector Management Program will be with us.

Radio Smart Talk 07/10/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The discovery of the Higgs Boson was hailed last week as one of the great moments in scientific history. Scientists, and physicists in particular, broke out the champagne to celebrate what may explain the creation of the universe and the planet Earth. With such a momentous occasion, one would think that Americans would be clamoring for more information. Two factors may explain their lack of curiosity. First, the announcement in Switzerland was made on the Fourth of July - a holiday in the U.S. But secondly, and maybe most significantly, explaining what the Higgs Boson is, is complicated. On Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll get an explanation from Roger Bussard, the Sr. Lecturer of Physics in the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology at Penn State/Harrisburg. What questions do have about the so-called 'God particle?'

Radio Smart Talk 07/09/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 9 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Pennsylvania's new voter identification law has been controversial since it was first proposed. Supporters said the law is needed to eliminate voter fraud. Critics countered that there is no voter fraud in Pennsylvania and that the law was intended to keep poor, elderly and young voters from going to the polls. Since the law was enacted, the Department of State has been taking steps to make it easier for voters without ID to obtain some form of identification. However, statistics released Tuesday show how tall an order that is. By comparing voter registration and Department of Transportation records, it's been determined that almost 759,000 registered voters – more than 9 percent -- don't have Penndot issued IDs. With those numbers backing their argument, more than 100 organizations from across the state are calling on Gov. Tom Corbett to delay implementation of the law. We'll hear from one of those groups on Monday's Radio Smart Talk. Voters are permitted to use ID other than driver licenses. The alternative include U.S. passports, student identification cards, current military ID, and government issued identification. Also, Monday is the last day the latest legislative re-districting map can be called into question in court. There are still objections to the boundaries drawn up by a committee made up of lawmakers and a judge. Joining us will be Amanda Holt, the citizen activist who the Pennsylvania Supreme Court said drew a better map than the committee. Ms. Holt may file objections to the latest version.

Radio Smart Talk 07/06/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 6 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Have you had an opportunity to check out witf’s new Community Blog? If not, you should. It’s the latest tool for witf’s various audiences to tell their stories. More than a dozen bloggers are writing about topics like food, gardening, politics, books, self-help and dating over the age of 40. The Community Blogs have already become some of the most popular destinations on witf.org. Blogging is just one way witf is engaging the audience. We often utilize the social media tools Facebook and Twitter to disseminate news and information, gather news, and find diverse perspectives. Of course, witf isn’t alone and it’s not new (unless you count something that’s been happening for just a few years new) – all media have some type of social engagement today. Technology has made it possible. On Friday’s Radio Smart Talk, we’ll focus on engaging the audience through blogging and other social media. Joining us will be Mallary Jean Tenore, an associate editor at Poynter.org. Poynter is a journalism school in St. Petersburg, Florida. We’ll also hear from a few of our community bloggers.

Radio Smart Talk 07/05/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 5 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

There seems to be news about energy, and more specifically about Marcellus Shale natural gas, every day in Pennsylvania. In large part, Marcellus Shale is shaping the state's energy and economic future. Just recently, Gov. Tom Corbett requested and the legislature approved a $1.65 billion tax credit for Royal Dutch Shell Oil Company to build an ethane "cracker" petrochemical plant in Beaver County. It's the largest incentive ever offered to a business to locate in the state. The governor expects the facility to create thousands of construction and permanent jobs. The governor also is offering incentives for more natural gas powered vehicles on Pennsylvania roadways. Filling up a fuel tank on natural gas cost about half of what gasoline does and it burns cleaner. The challenge though is there are less than a dozen natural gas filling stations in the state and the cars and trucks powered by natural gas are more expensive to buy. A 30-foot high water geyser erupted along a road in Tioga County last month where gas was being drilled. Officials believe pressure from methane migration that reached ground water caused the geyser. We'll get the background and an update on these stories and more from witf's StateImpactPA reporter Scott Detrow on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk.

Radio Smart Talk 07/03/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 3 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

Where is your favorite leisure travel destination in Pennsylvania? If you had to choose one place to visit in the Keystone State -- where would it be? Would you choose to travel to a city like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh, historic sites such as Gettysburg or Valley Forge or maybe out in the woods where there's camping and swimming? A state park or a place like Raystown Lake might fit the bill. The Great Recession and the ongoing sluggish economy prompted many vacationers to choose to stay closer to home in order to not spend as much money. The word "Staycation" became part of the lexicon. Staycations meant taking day trips or traveling to a destination that was within driving distance. When gas prices rose to nearly four dollars a gallon this spring, research indicated more travelers would be opting for staycations. Gasoline doesn't cost as much right now, but a recent survey by TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel site, shows vacation plans haven't changed a whole lot. Pennsylvania has dozens of places that would be great vacation or staycation destinations. We'll talk about them on Tuesday's program. Learn more at VisitPA.com. In the meantime, please answer these questions for use on the program: Where are your favorite lesiure travel destinations in Pennsylvania? What are the places you would like to visit that you haven't yet? Please share your photographs of Pennsylvania at Radio Smart Talk. Appearing Tuesday's RST: Carolyn Newhouse, Deputy Secretary for Innovation and Investment, Department of Community and Economic Development Rob Fulton, President/CEO, Pennsylvania Association of Travel and Tourism

Radio Smart Talk 07/02/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 2 Jul 2012 11:17:26 -0400

The Susquehanna River is the geographical feature that defines South Central Pennsylvania. The river is a drinking water source for hundreds of thousands and a favorite recreational destination as well. Everyone in this region has a stake in the Suquehanna's well-being. That's why it's alarming when smallmouth bass being pulled from the river have black spots and lesions on their scales. No one seems to know what's causing the spots but the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission says their research indicates the fish are otherwise healthy and can be eaten by humans. The spotted bass are one of several reasons Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director John Arway has asked that the Susquehanna be declared an impaired waterway. So far, Arway's request has been denied by the Department of Environmental Protection. Arway will appear on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss his concerns about the Susquehanna River.

Radio Smart Talk 06/29/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 12:47:17 -0400

Thursday's U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding the Affordable Care Act is being called one of the most important rulings in 80 years. Anyone following the coverage has probably heard that the law will impact all Americans. Much of the analysis since the ruling was made public has been devoted to how healthcare, individuals, and groups of people will be affected. Friday's Radio Smart Talk looks to bring the examination closer to home. We'll focus on Pennsylvania and what the law means or will mean for us. We'll hear from an insurer, organizations representing doctors and hospitals, and small businesses. What is your opinion of the Supreme Court ruling and the Affordable Care Act?

Radio Smart Talk 06/28/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 13:09:29 -0400

The U.S. Supreme Court has released several significant decisions this week, but the one that could have the most impact may become public Thursday morning. On Thursday's program, we'll look deeper into the court's decision to strike down three of the four provisions in Arizona's border control law. The justices decided it was unconstitutional to require immigrants to carry immigration documents, to make it a state crime if an illegal immigrant seeks or holds a job and to allow police to arrest suspected illegal immigrants without a warrant. The law's supporters hailed the court's decision to uphold a portion of the law that gives police the power to ask a person they suspect of being in the country illegally to show proof of residency. Widener School of Law Associate Professor Jill E. Family will appear on the program to sort out the case. Also, the Supreme Court ruled this week that juveniles can't be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. What will that mean for the more than 400 inmates in Pennsylvania who were convicted for crimes committed when they were under the age of 18? Mark Bergstrom, the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing and Jennifer Storm, the Executive Director of the Dauphin County Victim/Witness Assistance Program will explain. Finally, if the court releases its decision on the Affordable Care Act or healthcare overhaul as many refer to it, before we leave the air at 10 a.m. we will provide analysis.

Radio Smart Talk 06/27/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 12:44:01 -0400

There are only a few topics that the great majority of adult Americans have an opinion on, but the price of gasoline is one of them. Usually, we hear an outcry when prices rise by even a nickel or a dime per gallon. Price increases of more than that generate calls to elected officials, letters to the editor, and oh yes, telephone calls to talk shows. Gas is a commodity that almost everyone needs once or twice a week, so motorists quickly notice any price fluctuations. A consumer who spends more money than they're used to on gasoline will often cut back in other areas to stay within their budget. That's when the overall economy is impacted. But what about when gas prices go down? After peaking at nearly $4 a gallon in Pennsylvania two months ago, the average price of unleaded regular has fallen to $3.34. The lowest gas prices are in the midstate where several retailers are selling gas for under $3.10 a gallon. On Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk, we'll ask Greg Laskoski, the Senior Petroleum Analyst with gasbuddy.com why prices are on their way down, how far they'll go before bottoming out, and how long the price drop will continue. Also, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled this week that juveniles can't be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. What will that mean for the more than 400 inmates in Pennsylvania who were convicted for crimes committed when they were under the age of 18?

Radio Smart Talk 06/26/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 09:53:52 -0400

Many people believe the world can not sustain itself unless people from rich and poor nations come together to face the challenges of climate change, a growing population, poverty, hunger, illiteracy, and disease. Last week, the United Nations held it's 20th Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro. Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk guest was there. He is John C. Dernbach, a Distinguished Professor of Law at the Widener School of Law in Harrisburg and co-director of Widener's Environmental Law Center. Professor Dernbach is also the principal author of the new book, Acting as if Tomorrow Matters -- Accelerating the Transition to Sustainability. Also, Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner, who will be on Tuesday's program, says the state could save $315 million if payments to charter and cyber charter schools were limited to the national average. Currently, charter schools are funded by local schools based on a formula of what it cost to educate a student in their home school district. Finally, we'll learn about witf's new Arts and Culture Desk in the station's one day old News and Information format.

Radio Smart Talk 06/25/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:00:59 -0400

Pennsylvania Attorney General Linda Kelly may have said it best last Friday night after a Centre County jury found former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky guilty on 45 of 48 charges of sexually assaulting young boys when she said, "One of the recurring themes in this case was: Who would believe a kid? The answer is: We here in Bellefonte, Pa., would believe a kid.’’ It's hard to call anyone a winner in the Sandusky case, but one of its legacies may be that children who are the victims of sexual predators might be more willing to come forward and tell someone and adults may be more willing to believe them and be more vigilant. It's been estimated that up to 90% of sexual assaults against children go unreported. The Sandusky case may help change that number. Joining us on Monday's Radio Smart Talk to discuss child sex abuse after the Sandusky verdict are Kristen Houser, Vice President of Communications for the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape and Jennifer Storm, Executive Director of the Dauphin County Victim/Witness program. Learn more about Pennsylvania's Statute of Limitations in child abuse cases here.

Radio Smart Talk 06/22/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 12:42:05 -0400

Story telling is a big part of what we do on Radio Smart Talk and Friday's program will feature a lot of story telling with the listeners telling those stories. We plan a little different show on Friday. We'll have three questions we'd like you to think about and call in or comment below with your stories. You don't have to address all three -- maybe one or two. The questions to think about: What was your first job? What did you learn? What would you do differently today than you did then? Tell us about your first car. Was it a good-looking vehicle or closer to a junker? Finally, what do you do best in your life? Everyone has that one skill or characteristic that they enjoy the most or do better than anything else. What's yours?

Radio Smart Talk 06/21/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 11:51:16 -0400

There are more than 12 million alcoholics in the United States
That's about 4% of the entire population
Another 30-40 million are affected by an alcoholic in their family or who is a friend
Those faceless statistics don't tell the story about how real people are impacted by a loved one's problem drinking. Their drinking can contribute to arguments about any number of topics, violence, or maybe even the break up of a family. There are several treatments and programs available to alcoholics to help them stop drinking. Fortunately, there is a nationwide support group for friends and family of problems drinkers as well. Two anonymous guests who sought support from Al Anon will tell their stories on Thursday's Radio Smart Talk.

Radio Smart Talk 06/20/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 14:32:24 -0400

The technology industry is growing all the time in Pennsylvania. In fact, new high-tech products and businesses are being developed seemingly every week. It is one of the few industries in a sluggish economy that features business start ups and high-paying job creation. Statistics indicate there are more than 205,000 Pennsylvanians working in the tech industry, making an average of $81,000 annually. That's not to say the technology industry went unscathed by the Great Recession. Capital investment money was harder to come by and many would-be entrepreneurs just had to survive. HI-tech today appears to be driven by consumers, who just can't enough data-streaming and communications devices and the medical field that is looking for better ways to exchange health information. Appearing on Wednesday's Radio Smart Talk will be David Bonsick, the new president and CEO of TechQuestPA, an organization that works with and lobbies for tech companies at the state capitol. Also, Jon Walker, who blogs book reviews at www.jonosbookreviews.com joins us to highlight several books for great summer reading.

Radio Smart Talk 06/19/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 10:35:41 -0400

Pennsylvania's mass transit agencies say they need more money from the state and federal governments or they will have to cut services. That could mean fewer bus routes or elimination of evening or weekend buses. Several transit agencies have increased fares over the past few years, but with higher fuel and labor costs, officials say they still need more funding. Budgets in Harrisburg and Washington are tight, so an influx of cash seems unlikely. This comes at a time when commuters have been strongly encouraged to use mass transit to keep cars off the highways. An increase in ridership can often be tied directly to the price of gasoline too. On Tuesday's show, we'll look at the options. Appearing on Tuesday's Radio Smart Talk will be Bill Jones, the General Manager of the Capital Area Transit Authority or CAT that services Dauphin and Cumberland Counties and Richard Farr, the Executive Director of rabbittransit that provides rides in York and Adams Counties.

Radio Smart Talk 06/18/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 11:25:01 -0400

June 18, 1812 is when the United State and Great Britain began the War of 1812. The War of 1812 most often conjures up images of the Star-Spangled Banner, Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Dolly Madison, the British burning Washington and Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans. But do you know what the war was actually about? How about impressment? What was that? The British would capture American ships and force their sailors to serve on British vessels. Think kidnapping on the high seas. It greatly restricted American trade. One of the most significant battles of the war had a Pennsylvania tie. American warships defeated the British for the first time at the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813. Commodore Oliver Perry made the famous declaration, "We have met the enemy and they are ours" after Americans beat an entire British squadron. On Monday's program, we'll hear about the War of 1812 from Washington Post military reporter and author of the forthcoming book, Through the Perilous Night, Steve Vogel, and Walter Rybka, Site Administrator of the Erie Maritime Museum and Captain of the U.S. Brig Niagara.

Radio Smart Talk 06/15/2012

michael_williams@witf.org (WITF Smart Talk) — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 12:10:22 -0400

Dr. Douglas Tallamy, author of the book Bringing Nature Home, How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants will be a guest on Friday's Radio Smart Talk. Dr. Tallamy, who is the head of the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecosystems at the University of Delaware, indicates that plants native to Pennsylvania play a critical role in local ecosystems. Tallamy says, "Native plants are vital for the survival of wildlife. The birds and animals we all enjoy will disappear if we take away their food and habitat. We must redo suburban gardens to include some of the native plant species that once nourished our local biodiversity before we lose it forever." Once rural woodlands have become housing developments or shopping centers and wildlife habitat went along with the forests, trees, and plants. As a result, Dr. Tallamy is on a crusade to replace those habitats in our back yards with native plants and eliminating the alien ornamentals from our yards and gardens. Tallamy will speak Tuesday, June 19 at St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church in York, sponsored by the York Audubon Society, the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners and the Garden Club of York.