Mars, Pennsylvania wasn't named after the Red Planet, but it's fully embracing those celestial connections.
Mars is celebrating with almost as much fervor as NASA scientists Monday as the InSight Mission craft lands on Planet Mars. Mayor Greg Hartung and Missy Gralish, communications coordinator for the Planet Mars New Year Celebration, join NASA chief scientist Jim Green to talk about the mission and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory's unique relationship with a small Pennsylvania town.
Elsewhere in the program, Robert Gibb is a lauded poet who finds inspiration in the history, nature and culture around western Pennsylvania. He explores what draws him to write about the steel, shale and grit of the industrial revolution.
Marian Lien, executive director of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, says Squirrel Hill has changed a lot in the last 45 years, but its residents remain committed to creating a vibrant and diverse community for all. She credits the neighborhood’s people for much of its closeness and livability.
And following the midterm elections, Pennsylvania’s Congressional delegation will have nine Democrats and nine Republicans. The Caucus’Mike Wereschagin reports that despite GOP rancor over the new state Supreme Court-ordered map, conservatives still hold a firm advantage in the new map. He explains the efficiency gap and how it works.
The Confluence, where the news comes together, is 90.5 WESA’s daily news program. Tune in weekdays at 9 a.m. to hear newsmakers and innovators join veteran journalist Kevin Gavin, taking an in-depth look at stories important to the Pittsburgh region. Find more episodes of The Confluence here.
