90.5 WESA Features and Special Reports

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Pittsburgh Musicians Look To Future Beyond Pandemic Apr 02, 2021

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Musicians in Pittsburgh, like artists everywhere, had to learn to live without in-person concerts and play from behind a screen when the pandemic arrived. While many say they’re excited to return to the stage, they did discover some surprising upsides to performing online.

‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Get’: Port Authority Plans On A Bright Future Mar 02, 2021

Show notes

The Port Authority of Allegheny County is on a quest to build a transit system that is equitable, sustainable and improves people’s lives . A new round of public meetings on its long-range plan, NEXTransit , comes at a time of uncertainty and fiscal constraint.

Across Time And Space, Poet Channels Other Voices Feb 22, 2021

Show notes

In poet Yona Harvey’s latest collection, “You Don’t Have to Go to Mars for Love” (Four Way Books), several poems feel equal parts composition and collage. And there’s a reason for that.

The Politics Behind Reopening Pittsburgh Public Schools Feb 17, 2021

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An increasing amount of scientific evidence suggests that in-person learning, especially for younger students, presents a low risk for spreading the coronavirus. But last month, Pittsburgh Public Schools delayed reopening at least until April, a move that frustrated many working parents.

Acclaimed Pittsburgh-Based Young-Adult Author Pens Companion To A Cherished Classic Feb 16, 2021

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One person’s antagonist is another’s protagonist. It’s true in life, and also in the award-winning young-adult fiction of Sharon G. Flake.

PA’s Elderly Rely On Younger Relatives, Strangers On Facebook To Get COVID-19 Vaccine Feb 09, 2021

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After the state expanded phase 1A of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan last month, elderly Pennsylvanians began looking for appointments to get a shot. But since almost all vaccine appointments are booked online, many of the state’s oldest and most vulnerable residents are relying on loved ones to help them get booked.

Western PA Voters Reflect On Election Results — And What Comes Next Dec 04, 2020

Show notes

Pennsylvania certified Democrat Joe Biden as the winner of the presidential election weeks ago. But President Trump’s campaign and some allies are still fighting the outcome in court. For the final installment of our Split Ticket series, 90.5 WESA asked four Western Pennsylvania voters – who we’ve been following for the last year – how they feel about the outcome.

Pittsburgh-Based Author's New Novel Explores Puerto Rico's Past Nov 18, 2020

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Puerto Ricans have been immigrating to the U.S. for generations. Yet many mainlanders know little about this Caribbean island. For example, in 2017, in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, some Americans seemed surprised to learn that Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens .

One Small Step: Susan Uffelman & Michele Charmello On Building Bridges After A Bruising Campaign Nov 03, 2020

Show notes

Susan Uffelman, 53, of Pittsburgh and Michele Charmello, 51, of Pitcairn, Pa., stand on opposite ends of the political spectrum—Uffelman to the right, Charmello to the left.

From Backyard Rallies To Homemade Lawn Signs, Grassroots Tactics Mark Final Days Of Campaign Oct 30, 2020

Show notes

While it’s almost cliché to call western Pennsylvania an election battleground, local political organizers do not take the status for granted. And as this year’s campaign comes to a close in the age of COVID-19, members of both parties are mobilizing voters in their own way.

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