What to look for on Smart Talk Thursday, October 25, 2018:

Pennsylvanians have the right to clean air and water, thanks to the efforts of a young legislator named Franklin Kury. Nearly 50 years ago, Kury and other environmental advocates led the initiative to amend the Pennsylvania Constitution guaranteeing these rights.

The Environmental Rights Amendment was added to the state Constitution in 1971, as article 1, section 27. A new documentary produced by StateImpact Pennsylvania called Generations Yet to Come: Environmental Rights in Pennsylvania airs Thursday, October 25 on WITF-TV at 8pm and Friday, October 26 on WQED-TV at 8:30pm.

“Generations Yet to Come: Environmental Rights in Pennsylvania”- Promo

StateImpact Pennsylvania reporter and documentary producer Marie Cusick is in the studio to talk about the program.

Also, enthusiasm for the upcoming election is translating into an increase in voter registrations.

Democrats, Republicans and unaffiliated or third-party voters’ registration increased during 2018, which hasn’t happened for any other midterm in at least the past two decades, according to a PA Post analysis of Pennsylvania Department of State archived registration data going back to 1998.

Pa Post reports the trend seems to “quantify excitement among voters in Pennsylvania and across the country amid national political polarization.”

Keystone Crossroads reporter Emily Previti joins Smart Talk to discuss the trend. Previti produces The Context, a PA Post daily newsletter and is the senior reporter for statewide public media collaboration Keystone Crossroads.

Also, Smart Talk invited the candidates for the U.S.Senate, House of Representatives and the Governor’s office to appear on the program so that voters can hear where they stand on the issues.

Hear the candidates here

Appearing on Thursday’s Smart Talk is Democrat Jess King, running for the U.S. House of Representatives in the 11th Congressional district that encompasses Lancaster County and the southern part of York County.

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What to look for on Smart Talk Wednesday, October 24, 2018:

Seventy-three years after World War II ended, we’re finally hearing about thousands of young American women who saved lives and helped defeat the enemy. In her latest book Code Girls – the Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II, best-selling author Liza Mundy describes the secretive duties of the women who were able to break down and interpret codes sent by the Japanese and German militaries, diplomats and governments.

Their efforts led to knowing the enemies’ plans, where their troops were located, troop strengths and supply chains.

One of the reasons the story hasn’t been told over the last seven decades is the code breakers were sworn to secrecy — even from spouses, family and friends. Many of them were reluctant to break their silence even now.

Liza Mundy recently appeared at Midtown Scholar Bookstore for their Harrisburg Bookfest. Smart Talk host Scott LaMar interviewed her about the book and a recording of that conversation is on Wednesday’s Smart Talk.

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What to look for on Smart Talk Tuesday, October 23, 2018:

Family history and genealogical research is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the world. People trace their lineage and map their family tree for any number of reasons. Some people want to validate history and family stories, others are motivated by unanswered medical questions and to assess risks and conditions.

As more people begin searching genealogical sites, databases grow larger and connections are made. In the internet age, mapping a family tree is at right at your fingertips.

In 2001, Congress declared October as National Family History Month in the United States. Every year, the National Archives hosts a virtual Genealogy Fair via live webcast on YouTube. The sessions offer family history research tools on Federal records for all skill levels. Thousands of family historians participate in the live event.

Aaron McWilliams, an archivist with the Pennsylvania State Archives, joins Smart Talk on Tuesday to discuss ways to research your family tree.

Also, Smart Talk is featuring interviews with candidates running for governor, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House of Representatives before the November 6 general election. All candidates who appear on the ballot in the WITF listening area and who have opponents were invited to be on the program.

Joining Smart Talk on Tuesday is Congressman Lloyd Smucker, who is running for reelection in the 11th district that encompasses Lancaster County and the southern part of York County.

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What to look for on Smart Talk Monday, October 22, 2018:

Election day is a little over two weeks away. This mid-term election seems to be getting more attention than most as voters decide on candidates running for governor, U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Here in Pennsylvania, voters will cast ballots for state representatives and half the Pennsylvania state senate.

Leading up to the election, Smart Talk is speaking with the gubernatorial, and U.S. House and Senate candidates from Central Pennsylvania to give voters an opportunity to hear where the candidates stand on the issues.

Hear the candidates here.

Among the candidates we’re talking with are those who are neither Democrats or Republicans. Pennsylvania has more than 44,000 voters registered Libertarian, 11,500 registered as Green and 1.1 million not registered with any party.

Appearing on Monday’s Smart Talk are two candidates running for governor of Pennsylvania.

Ken Krawchuk is on the ballot representing the Libertarian Party and Paul Glover is the Green Party’s candidate for governor.

 

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What to look for on Smart Talk Friday, October 19, 2018:

Some 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s Disease and another 16 million are caring for them (unpaid). The federal government is spending a record $1.8 billion dollars to research Alzheimer’s, which many consider a growing calamity, since the population is aging. There is no cure and no long-term successful treatment for Alzheimer’s.

Research continues into Alzheimer’s Disease and some of it appears to be promising. However, for every positive, there’s a negative to go along with it. For example, 99.6% of Alzheimer’s drugs tested successfully in animals fail in human trials.

On Friday’s Smart Talk, we’re joined by the Alzheimer’s Association’s Director of Scientific Engagement, Dr. Rebecca Edelmayer and Jeremy Bland, the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Harrisburg Chapter, to discuss research and the future of Alzheimer’s.

Also, author Stephen Fried appears on Friday’s program to talk about his book Rush — Revolution, Madness and the Visionary Doctor Who Became a Founding Father. Benjamin Rush is one of the least known signers of the Declaration of Independence but he accomplished so much more in his life like founding Dickinson College in Carlisle and pioneering treatment for mental illness.

Stephen Fried, who is a Harrisburg native, appears at the Beth El Temple in Harrisburg at 7:30 Sunday evening.

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What to look for on Smart Talk Thursday, October 18, 2018:

Breast cancer treatments are often more effective when the cancer is detected early. Self-screening and regular mammograms, for women 40 and older, are critical tools in early diagnosis. But there are barriers to breast cancer screening and access to breast health information doesn’t always reach low-income populations.

The Feel Your Boobies Foundation is working to change that in Central Pennsylvania, through a collaborative effort with the Hamilton Health Center. The Health Center provides community-based health care for all people regardless of income level and insurance status. The Foundation, by expanding their educational outreach to young women in underserved and minority communities, hopes to remove a barrier to breast cancer screening.

Research shows that black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age than white women and their mortality rate is higher. Early screening is critical to changing that statistic.

Appearing on Thursday’s Smart Talk to discuss this collaboration are Dr. Loren Robinson, Deputy Secretary for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention with the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Leigh Hurst, Executive Director, Feel Your Boobies Foundation, and Tyrisha Roberson, a breast cancer survivor. Roberson was diagnosed in her early 20’s with metastatic breast cancer and is still receiving treatment.

Also, health care is a hot-button issue in this year’s U.S. Senate campaign. Incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey and his Republican opponent Lou Barletta are clashing over the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and the preexisting conditions stipulation.

WITF Transforming Health reporter Brett Sholtis is in the studio to discuss where the candidates stand on these and other healthcare issues.

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What to look for on Smart Talk Wednesday, October 17, 2018:

It’s a Smart Talk Road Trip to Harrisburg University of Science and Technology to explore what’s new in the world of technology, design and art. There is a lot going on in Central Pennsylvania and at Harrisburg University, starting with the UPNEXT Fest.

What began as Harrisburg’s Startup Week has “exploded” into eight days of events and activities for anyone interested in learning more about the technology, design and the startup scene in Central Pennsylvania. Smart Talk is talking about the UPNEXT fest with Chuck Russell, president of the Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania (TCCP).

Then, it’s all about women in technology. More girls are studying STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) than ever before, but there is still an employment and wage gap. What does the current landscape look like for women in tech fields? How far have we come and where do we need to go?

On Smart Talk we’re joined by Bili Mattes, Harrisburg University provost and chief academic officer. Mattes is also the executive director of the STEM-UP leadership program. Dr. Alice Armstrong is a STEM-UP alum and she is joining the conversation, as well.

Then, Foundry Makerspace is a social enterprise initiative to build the capacity of schools for 21st Century life and work. We’ll talk to organizational leaders about their mission and what it means to be a “maker.” Smart Talk is joined by Chad Frey, Foundry Makerspace president, Nashon Walker, fellow at Scott and Melrose Elementary, and Heather Lister, fellow at Camp Curtin Academy and Marshall Math Science Academy.

 

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Negotiations for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA) were finalized last month when Canada agreed to join the U.S. and Mexico in a trade deal that replaces NAFTA. Legislatures in all three countries must ratify the deal before it becomes official and it is almost certain to face a very vigorous debate in the U.S. Congress.

There are certain areas of the agreement that are grabbing attention, and some involve the auto industry. The USMCA tightens the “rules of origin” for parts requiring that more parts must be sourced from North America, even if they can be found cheaper somewhere else. The trade agreement also states that a minimum amount of the car must be produced by workers earning above a certain wage. This rule is especially important in Mexico, a source of cheap labor for automakers. Some critics say that this requirement could cause prices to rise for cars built in North America.

The USMCA is expected to give the U.S. greater access to Canada’s dairy market, a vital issue for U.S. dairy manufacturers and a key component to the trade negotiations.

Joining Smart Talk to discuss how this new agreement will impact Pennsylvania agriculture are Mark O’Neill, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, member farmer Paul Hartman, Berks County, and Jayne Sebright, Center for Dairy Excellence.

 

Also, the 2018 U.S. elections will be held (mostly) on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. These midterm elections take place in the middle of President Donald Trump’s first term. Nationally, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 seats in the Senate will be contested. Pennsylvania voters will go to the polls for the Governors’ office, as well.

Smart Talk invited the candidates for the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives and the Governors office to appear on the program so that voters can hear where they stand on the issues.

Congressional candidate for the 13th Congressional District Brent Ottaway (D) joins us on Tuesday’s Smart Talk.

 

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What to look for on Smart Talk Monday, October 15, 2018:

The Humane Society of the United States reports that there are more than 10-thousand “puppy mills” in the country. Lancaster County is home to many “puppy mills” and the state ranks among the worst for consumer complaints about dogs purchased through these operations.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals defines a “puppy mill” as a large-scale commercial dog breeding facility where profit is given priority over the well-being of the animals. Dogs bred through these operations often carry hereditary defects and long-term health problems.

Currently, there are two animal protection bills under consideration by state legislators. The Pennsylvania Retail Sales bill (SB 1154) would require pet stores to source animals from shelters and rescues rather than “puppy mill” operations. It would also require the pet stores to post license numbers of breeders.

The Animals in Distress bill (HB 1216), also known as the “the hot car” bill, will protect animals in distress in motor vehicles by allowing public safety professionals to remove them without liability for damages.

Animal advocates and lawmakers are gathering at the Capitol today in support of both of these bills. Joining Smart Talk to discuss the legislation are Senators Guy Reschenthaler (R-37) and Andy Dinniman (D-19), and Kristen Tullo, Pennsylvania state director, The Humane Society of the United States.

Also, the 2018 U.S. elections will be held (mostly) on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. These midterm elections take place in the middle of President Donald Trump’s first term. Nationally, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 seats in the Senate will be contested. Pennsylvania voters will go to the polls for the Governors’ office, as well.

Smart Talk invited the candidates for the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives and the Governors office to appear on the program so that voters can hear where they stand on the issues.

Congressional candidate for the 10th Congressional District George Scott (D) joins us on Monday’s Smart Talk.

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What to look for on Smart Talk Thursday, October 11, 2018:

It’s back! The flu season has arrived and with it, the debate over the flu vaccine.

Health officials encourage people to get their flu shots by the end of October. In the U.S., flu season begins in October and can last as late as May, with most activity peaking in February.

The CDC recommends everyone ages six months and older get a flu vaccine each season, particularly those in high risk categories: young children, elderly, pregnant, and those with compromised immune systems. The vaccine is shown to reduce flu related illnesses and serious complications that can result in hospitalization or even death.

Every year, there seems to be debate about the efficacy of the previous year’s vaccine.

According to the CDC, the vaccine is designed to protect against the three or four influenza viruses their research indicates are most likely to spread and cause illness. Choosing which viruses to protect against is a scientific process that involves multiple labs around the globe. In other words, it is a very educated, scientific guess.

Joining Smart Talk to discuss the flu season and the vaccination program is Dr. John Goldman, MD, Vice President and System Epidemiologist, UPMC Pinnacle.

Also, the State Museum of Pennsylvania is celebrating 50 years of Mammal Hall, one of its most popular exhibits. A three-year restoration project costing $680,000 was recently completed and the hall rededicated. The special collection of dioramas depict common and rare species of Pennsylvania in their natural habitats.

Watch this video explaining aspects of the renovation. (Story continues below.)

When Mammal Hall first opened in 1968, it was the second gallery installed at the museum. Each diorama features mammals in their natural locations throughout Pennsylvania, depicting all seasons of the year and various times of day.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania, adjacent to the State Capitol in Harrisburg, is one of 24 historic sites and museums administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The State Museum also offers interpretations showcasing Pennsylvania’s heritage, featuring exhibits examining the dawn of geologic time, the Native American experience, the colonial and revolutionary eras, a Civil War battleground, and the commonwealth’s industrial age.

Joining Smart Talk to discuss the Mammal Hall restoration project is Beth Hager, State Museum Director.

Also, Midtown Scholar Bookstore owner Catherine Lawrence is in the studio to talk about the 6th annual Harrisburg Book Festival that begins Thursday.

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