WKOK Sunrise

Today we heard an NBC report on jury selection in the Trump New York trial and where Trump's troubles stand now. Caller also discussed Trump's remarks on abortion.

Movie Mike McGranaghan, professional movie critic, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate with his latest review; 'No Hard Feelings,' and he'll have mini-reviews of 'Asteroid City,' and 'Sound of Freedom.' In entertainment news, we'll talk about the legacy and career of Frederic Forest who died at the age of 86, and actor John Boyega had an update on the Jamie Foxx medical condition.  

6/30/23 WKOK Sunrise: David Rowe, State Representative (R-85th) on budget time in Harrisburg, Penn State funding dispute, and related topics...

Hope Kopf, Northumberland resident, on the Tribute to 1973, Celebrating 50-Years' observance July 4 at the Priestley Chapel from 10am to 5pm. We'll talk about the why (Pineknotter Days is 50-years-old) and the Tribute schedule. We'll talk about the displays, music, and the reason thinking back to 1973 is going to be a blast!.

Mark Burke, Founder and President of Mynddset, a thriving entrepreneurial business in the DRIVE business hub, where he is helping businesses and organizations rethink their mission, their meetings, events and the behaviours they hope to impact. We’ll talk about his studio services, poditorium and deep thinking they do about events, meetings, and many other meet-ups (Recorded).

Jeffrey Wojciechowski, Sunbury Code Enforcement officer, on the success of the city-wide-walk-around efforts, the notifications that went out for code violations, their work with property owners, and the overall success of this program. He'll talk about other code enforcement efforts lately, the electronic and tire recycling events, along with other new initiatives; and addressing the housing and rental issues in the city. 

Movie Mike McGranaghan, professional critic, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate with his latest review; 'The Flash,' and he'll have a mini-review of 'Elemental.' In entertainment news, he'll talk about Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese intervening after layoffs at Turner Classic Movies, and Oliver Stone calls the 'John Wick' franchise "disgusting beyond belief.

Terry Burke, President, Union County Veterans 4th of July Committee, and Shawn Stout, Founder and CEO of USA Life, Co-sponsoring Union County Veterans 4th of July celebration, the postponed fireworks (which won't be held Friday night, but maybe Saturday night), on the big celebration and firework's 94KX soundtrack), and Saturday's big events, the parade, flyover, music in the park and everything else.

Erik Rowe, and Tom Gates 2023 Wheels In the Grove Car Show, August 10, held by the Selinsgrove Rotary Club. They'll discuss: "Join Us for Our Third Annual Car Show in Downtown Selinsgrove!  With great cars to look at, music at the commons, and eating outside under the stars at some of the best restaurants in the Valley, you won’t want to miss the Third Annual Wheels in the Grove! 

Heather L Shnyder, Health Systems Training Specialist, Transitions of PA, and Tracy Strosser, Outreach Coordinator, on the new staff, the position, the new goals  for education and outreach…and…on summer camp, Camp i.Am.B.R.A.V.E. (Bystander intervention Respect Attitude Values Empathy August 14-18 in Lewisburg, they say, “Get ready for a fun week of learning, making friends, team building, arts and crafts, and other indoor and outdoor fun activities!  Facilitated by trained educators, Camp i.Am.BRAVE will provide your child with opportunities to learn about what it means to be B.R.A.V.E.

Using a new story each day, your child will learn and talk about doing good things and being there for others who might need help with the goal of emphasizing helpful actions and behaviors, understanding feelings and emotions, and who to go to when they need help.  Camp Hours are from 8am – 4pm daily, with the availability of extended care hours before and after daily.  Breakfast, Lunch, and Snacks provided! Register today! Ages 5-10.”  We’ll also touch on…everything else, their mission, work, services, they are hiring, and their fundraising in the future.

Christine Orlando, Director of Philanthropy, Community Giving Foundation, Berwick, and Eric Pangelinan, Program Officer with CGF, on their Annual Meeting of the Women’s Giving Circle, on why giving is fun, and how foundations thrive and help a community thrive. They say they'll talk about their event, "July 25 at the Pine Barn Inn in Danville. The Women’s Giving Circle invites community members to join in collective giving where grants are awarded to support initiatives that better the lives of women and girls across our region. This is a regional initiative, supporting our entire service area (lower-Luzerne, Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Union, and Snyder Counties). On July 25, members of the Women’s Giving Circle will listen to live presentations from nonprofit organization’s and then a live vote is conducted and grants totaling $20,000 are awarded all at the same event. It is a very exciting way for people to get involved in grantmaking, make a difference – and have fun!" 

James Heath (KC3OXN), Shamokin, SVARC Vice President, Single Sideband Chairman, James Collier (KC3GBS), Shamokin, SVARC President, Single Sideband Co-chairman on, what is amateur radio, what it's followers have done in decades past, and what they are still doing. We'll talk about their gift for communication during crises, and how they stand at the ready. We'll discuss the Field Day 2023. They say, "The fourth full weekend of June each year in North America is a very special time for tens of thousands of “hams” in the amateur radio community. It’s special because for these ham radio operators, it’s their moment in the spotlight to show the public the value of ham radio, and to prove their skills in preparedness for an emergency event. And for the Susquehanna Valley Amateur Radio Club (SVARC), it’s no different."

Tea Jay Aikey, President and CEO, Central Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce, on their upcoming 'Fine Day for a Wine Day event, her 'Tea Time with Tea Jay' column, their WEDnetPA training, and the all important, 'Understanding Medicaid' talk coming up. We'll discuss the chamber's work three years into the pandemic/inflation/worker shortage/supply chain crisis, an Inside Jobs event at the State Capital with Rep. David Rowe (R-85th, Lewisburg), a blood drive, and much more. 

Movie Mike McGranaghan, professional movie critic, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate, with his review of 'Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,' and a mini review of 'Stan Lee.' In entertainment news, he discusses the death of Treat Williams, the next few Avatar sequels are delayed, and Mike's extensive report from the Tribecca Film Festival.

Sandy Heim of Sunbury, and Glenn Moyer of Northumberland, on the latest from the Save our Susquehanna group. We'll talk about Encina's latest moves, why the group is bracing for a long fight and what all of us can do work against the Encina circular plastics recycling facility. 

Tim Schaeffer, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, on his recent visit to Union County unveiling a new boat launch ramp and parking area. We'll talk about the recent 'Safe Boating Week,' discuss summer waterway safety, license sales this year, next year's license increase, his first four years on the job, his conservation mindset, and an update on trout mapping. 

Andrea Dietz, Outreach Facilitator, United in Recovery (UIR), Susquehanna Valley United Way (SVUW), and Loreen Comstock, Outreach Facilitator, UIR, SVUW, on the mission and work of United in Recovery, and their upcoming United in Recovery Second Annual Recovery Picnic. We'll talk about the need for UIR, their services over the years, the outreach, deliverables and education they've done and how it is paying off. I'll ask about what has happened, and they hope will happen, at the picnic.

Dr. James Cook, Division chief of Neonatology at Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, on the upcoming Walk for Babies, they're recruiting walkers and donors for the event June 25 at Montour Preserve.  We'll talk about Geisinger's legacy ties, support of, and support from, the March of Dimes, why support fundraising and how the funding helps. We'll talk about raising money and raising awareness. Dr. Cook will discuss what he sees firsthand how all this makes a difference for premature babies and mothers at Geisinger hospitals

Movie Mike McGranaghan, professional movie critical, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate, with his review of 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,' and he'll have a mini-review of 'Flamin' Hot.'  Regarding entertainment news, Mike will discuss Cuba Goodling, Jr's rape lawsuit settlement, and the next 'Captain America' movie gets a new title.

Dr. Glen Finney, Geisinger Memory and Cognition Center, on the news that multivitamins can help with memory and cognition. We'll talk about the new study findings, and everything else that relates to memory, cognition and brain power. We'll talk about what slows our brain down (lack of sleep, or poor nutrition?), the impact of social media or any obsessive behavior, and why we are such creatures of habit.

Jove Graham, President, RiverStage Theater, Chelsey Davis, Maria, Selinsgrove area super-mom, singer, performer, trainer, podcast and videoblogger, and Clara Graham, on the upcoming 'Sound of Music' performances at RiverStage Theater. We'll talk about this massive musical undertaking, the big cast, the big show, and what is the magic in this play. Guests may 'run a few lines' and we will hear some of Chelsey's incredible singing.

Eva Linke, Chairperson, Board of Directors of Mifflinburg Buggy Museum, businesswoman (Tack Room, Inc,) Mifflinburg Buggy Day, on this Saturday's event, how it is revived after being idle for a while (and not just during the pandemic). We'll discuss how it is revived, this Saturday 9am to 4pm in Mifflinburg on Market Street, the graveyard tour, antiques for sale, alpacas, Victorian House tour, entertainment, children's games, carnival games, activities and demonstrations, crafts, antique cars, buggy rides, food, we'll talk about the Buggy Museum, and all thing's 'buggy,' 

Emily Fread, Dairy Educator, Union County,  Penn State Extension, and her work, her 'deliverables,' how she is helping farmers and helping the public understand the nuances and best practices of the dairy industry, what hurts the productivity of dairy herds, and what helps productivity. We'll discuss automated milking, and we'll discuss the joys and burdens of dairy farming.

Judy Silverstein-Gray, author, retired US Coast Guard chief petty officer, on her book, Unwavering: The Wives Who Fought To Ensure No Man Was Left Behind. She'll talk about the remarkable book that chronicals the dramatic story of women back home to bring POWs back from Vietnam. The captured men were forgotten nationally, and militarily, but the women locally took action, pushed Washington, fought the US military establishment and worked to save the men, and remember them. 

Joannah McGregor and Paula Christy, founding members of UCANN, on what they are doing on the noise abatement front, why this is still a new idea around here, and how there are already existing laws to prevent illegal modifications to exhaust systems. We'll talk why police don't enforce the laws, and why mayor's and councils aren't concerned. We'll ask why the noise problem is significantly worse and why it matters that we have quiet communities.

Dr. Lenaire Ahlum, Founder, Executive Project Director, Susquehanna Valley Community Education Project, and Dr. Carl Jensen, SVCEP Board Member,  on the status and progress of the new community college in The Valley, how they know community colleges work for rural areas, how affordable, accessible and relevant the SVCEP will be?   We'll ask about Dr. Jensen's background, lots of questions about the upcoming Business Leaders Forum regarding the Susquehanna Valley Community College Business Plan, topics included and the status of the Nursing Assistant Training and Competency Program.

Mike McGranaghan, professional critic, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate with his latest review; 'The Little Mermaid,' and he'll have a mini-review of 'About My Father.' In entertainment news, he'll talk about the conviction of Danny Masterson, Martin Scorsese is in Rome researching his next film, and Tribecca Film Festival starts next week. 

Dr. Laura K. Campbell, Psychologist, Geisinger, with a new look at the changing field of mental health and behavioral health, the shortage of providers, telemedicine, what is the state of our mental health post-pandemic, everything from workplace wellness being better addressed, new mental health concerns with gun violence, and gender dysphoria. We'll talk about being 'present' or 'in the moment' or 'mindfulness' as being ways to help us enjoy better mental health. And recent findings show loneliness is a significant issue. What is that exactly and what can be done? When, and where to get help for any mental health concerns? What can you trust online? 

Lynne Ragusea Executive Assistant, Lewisburg Downtown Partnership, will discuss the mission and work of the Partnership, their many activities and events all year, and the many summer events coming up: The  The Heart of Lewisburg Summer Craft Fair this Saturday, Pride Festival (June 17) and some other of the many activities in Lewisburg.

Alana Jajko, Director of Communications and Outreach, Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, on the mission and work of the Partnership, their many projects and initiatives, and some of the big upcoming events and activities. We'll discuss the hugely successful photo contest, the growing Partnership and their increasing scope, and of course: This weekend's Outdoor Expo. We'll discuss who is coming, sponsors, venders, activities, and the rest of the Expo's activity.

Mae-Ling Kranz, CEO, Transitions of PA, on her first few years as CEO, and their big 'The Time is Now' auction: Tickets are on sale for their 35th(!) annual charity auction sponsored by Evangelical Community Hospital. Ali will also ask how the worker shortage has had an impact on their growth. 

5/30/23 WKOK Sunrise: Christine Sperling and Mike Molesevich, board members of the Union County Historical Society, host WKOK's Mark Lawrence at what was The Packwood House. They discuss the history of the former Packwood House Museum, some of the early visioning of future uses for the main Fetherston House and the Annex.

The interview was recorded on site as they talked about the history of the two century old historic buildings, how they were used in recent decades and how the Historical Society came to purchase them. They talk about possible uses, a gallery, individual municipal museums, untouched historic space, and other early ideas for the 14,000 square feet of space.

They discuss the realities, the costs of renovations and updating mechanical systems, use of the verdant courtyard, and how they'll work with other agencies, including the Lewisburg Arts Council.

5/26/23 WKOK Sunrise: Movie Mike McGranaghan with his review of ‘Fast X’ and a mini-review of ‘Kandahar’ plus entertainment news

Kimberly A. Smith, Safety Press Officer, PA Department of Transportation, on transportation, pedestrian and children's safety when schools out,' some summer safety tips for everyone and workzone safety. We'll talk about these 'Deadliest Days' for teens, how to be a safe traveler, and we'll dig into workzone safety.

Jeffrey Wojciechowski, Sunbury Code Office on their walk through the city prior to the official Sunbury Kick-off, the Kick-off itself, and a wide range of other endeavors from within the Code Office.

Karen Buch, Board Member, Selinsgrove Area Community Pool, on the family passes, the fundraising during the year, supporting the swim team from Selinsgrove, the opening activities this Saturday and a wide range of other good news from the pool. We'll talk about their unmet needs and future costs (which are going up 😊).

Sue Auman, Executive Director, Union-Snyder Community Action Agency, and Megan Bair, Executive Director, Central Susquehanna Opportunities, on their celebration of their participation in the Community Action Network. We'll ask each guest what they and their agency do, how lives are touched and transformed by their work, and and how this Valley has benefitted in many ways from the agencies and organizations they represent, and benefitted from outside agencies to which they are connected.

5/23/23 WKOK Sunrise: Deanna Force, PIO Danville Fire Department, and Secretary, Carnival Co-Chair, Southside Fire Department on the volunteer fire service and this week's carnival. She discusses the fun, community event that is the carnival this week, and the important fundraiser that is the carnival. We also discuss the need for volunteers for an upcoming Active Shooter Drill in Danville, the need for fire fighters, funds for apparatus, and a National Night Out type event in June. 

Tea Jay Aikey, President and CEO Central Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce, on their ongoing efforts to help employers keep employees, their training Soft Skills in a Digital World, Understanding C-Pace, WEDnetPA, Estate Planning, Understanding Medicaid, their golf tournament, Inside Jobs at the state capitol, a 'Fine Day for Wine Day' event, their Wellness Survey, and lots and lots of surprises. 

Movie Mike McGranaghan, professional critic, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate with his latest review; 'Book Club: The Next Chapter,' and he'll have a mini-review of 'White Men Can't Jump.' In entertainment news, he'll talk about a Florida teacher who showed a Pixar movie (and is in hot water), and Eddie Murphy as 'Inspector Clouseau.'

Tom Gegenheimer, noted local band director, music educator, and Director of the Sunbury City Band, on this weekend's 125th Anniversary Concert, with free admission, this Sunday 3pm at Zion Lutheran Church in Sunbury. We'll talk about their busy schedule coming up, the rich history of the band, their waxing and waning periods, the fun of great outdoor concerts these days and their gratitude for the great audiences and support over the years

Elissa Concini is one of Geisinger's biggest advocates for women's health, she works in Labor and Delivery, is an educator, a teacher and mentor for nurses, and we talk about Women's Health Awareness Week, why women benefit from more health, diet, fitness and medical information, the latest information on pap tests, what is the best way to convey that information, and what are some tricks and tips to pass along. Mark Lawrence asks 'what every woman should know?'

Peterson Toscano, member of Sunbury Revitalization Incorporated, podcaster, author, TikToc star, bible scholar, climate advocate, live performer, on the upcoming Sandwich Stroll in Sunbury. The event is June 3, involves people moving from restaurant to restaurant in Sunbury. 

Dr. David Roesser, Encina CEO, and Michael Marr, Director of Government Relations & Compliance for Encina with their latest efforts to locate their $1B plastics circular manufacturing facility in Point Township. We'll ask the latest on reconfiguring the plant to meet zoning requirements, and we'll ask for their update, and new information.

Monica Prince and Scotta Magnelli, on this week's Live from Lewisburg event at the Campus Theatre, Lewisburg. We'll talk about why this event has been such a huge success, the nuances this time and the addition of the ultra-talented Monica Prince. 

5/16/23 WKOK Sunrise: Dr. Victor Vogel, pilot, retired oncologist, on the Remake Learning Days/Stem to the Skies at Penn Valley Airport, on the Remake Learning Days events at the Penn Valley Airport and elsewhere. We talked about how young people are being exposed to career opportunities in aviation. We'll give the audience a glimpse of this great program and talk about an industry searching for more workers.  https://remakelearningdays.org/

Murray Zlotziver, Operations Manager, The Joseph Priestley House, and Colleen Epler Ruths, on the Priestley House Herb and Native Plant Fair, Saturday, May 20, at The Joseph venders selling plants, master gardeners, 4-H club, activities for kids, the house will be open for tours, Engels Farm and Greenhouse, Gettysburg Gardens will be there, heirloom plants we'll be selling, food truck and much more. 

Movie Mike McGranaghan, professional movie critic, author, and 'women in cinema' advocate with his latest movie review; 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,' and he'll have mini-reviews of 'Hypnotic,'  'Rally Road Racers,' and 'Still.'  In entertainment news, he'll talk about the 'Beetlejuice' sequel ('again,' he says), and Robert DeNiro is a new dad...at 79.