The Confluence, where the news comes together, is 90.5 WESA’s weekly news program.
Each week reporters, editors and bloggers join veteran journalist and host Kevin Gavin to take an in-depth look at the stories important to the Pittsburgh region.
This week’s topics include the recent nationwide rise in constituent-led town halls; interfaith support for, and the economic impact of, Pittsburgh’s immigrant residents; and bills proposed to combat the commonwealth’s opioid epidemic.
Town Halls
Across the nation, town halls are taking place with or without elected officials. Many of these meetings are becoming contentious and raising safety concerns. We’ll take a look at two recent town halls that took place in the region with reporters Chris Potter of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and 90.5 WESA’s Margaret J. Krauss.
Immigration, Faith and Economics
Civic and religious leaders are coming together to support the city's immigrant population. What is their estimated economic impact and how can advocates make the city safer for its newest citizens? City Paper reporter Ryan Deto and freelance reporter Kim Lyons join us.
Opioid Bills
In Harrisburg, a set of bills are being proposed to combat the state's opioid crisis. Joining us to discuss the proposed legislation and how communities are coping with the issue are reporters Ben Allen of WITF and David Wenner of Pennlive.
Past editions of The Confluence can be heard here.
