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On this edition of What’s Going On, I’m Loraine Ballard Morrill, bringing you conversations about protecting young hearts, vaccine confidence and helping older adults stay warm this winter. First, Jamie Abramson, Simon’s Heart and CPR Jukebox Marathon Program Director, discusses the organization’s work to prevent sudden cardiac arrest in young people through free heart screenings, AED access and CPR education. We also preview the inaugural CPR Jukebox Marathon, an overnight experience where high school students can enjoy music, food and games while learning lifesaving skills. The marathon takes place November 21–22, 2026, from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. at Skramble House of Golf KOP, 570 S. Trooper Road in Audubon, Pennsylvania. Registration is $25, with a suggested fundraising goal of $250. No previous CPR experience is needed. Register or donate: simonsheart.org/marathon Website: simonsheart.org Instagram: @simonsheart | Facebook: Simon’s Heart  Next, Dr. Michael Burgess, a physician and former Republican congressman from Texas, joins me to discuss vaccine confidence, access and the role of policymakers in protecting public health. We explore the Republican administration’s approach to vaccination, questions about vaccine safety and how families can find reliable information. Website: fightinfectiousdisease.org X: @ThePFID | LinkedIn: Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease   Finally, Howard Teicher, Senior Vice President of Growth for Senior Living and Channel Partners at Medical Guardian, shares how Operation Frosty is collecting winter essentials for older adults in need, with a goal of 20,000 items. We also discuss the Guardian Flex medical alert device and considerations for older adults and caregivers. Donate gently used coats, jackets, scarves, hats and other cold-weather essentials. Contact Medical Guardian for collection and shipping arrangements, or make a financial donation through Operation Frosty. Website: MedicalGuardian.com Socials: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | LinkedIn

Insight Part 2: Building Opportunity, Preserving History and Bringing Stories to the Screen On this edition of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill explores opportunities for Black-owned businesses, a family’s commitment to preserving Philadelphia history and the creative voices bringing new stories to film. Paralee Knight, vice president of philanthropy and community impact at Wells Fargo, and Regina Hairston, president and CEO of the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, discuss connecting Black entrepreneurs with resources, relationships and opportunities for growth. They preview the CBC Summit, featuring panel discussions and fireside chats with guests including Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings of Earn Your Leisure and Felicia Pride. CBC Summit: November 16, 2026, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn in Camden, New Jersey. Registration: Visit the events page at aachamber.com. Socials: Instagram @official_aacc | X @AAChamber   Audrey R. Johnson-Thornton, who lived to age 93, led Belmont Mansion’s restoration. Today, Audrey’s daughter, Dr. Naomi Johnson Booker, CEO and founder of Global Leadership Academy Schools and president and chair of the board of Belmont Mansion’s American Women’s Heritage Society, and granddaughter Loni Booker-White, founder and executive creative director of Sauce continue that legacy. They discussed preserving the estate, bringing overlooked stories forward and inviting the community to help shape Belmont’s next chapter. Reimagining Belmont — Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6–9 p.m. Preview concepts for the future of the Underground Railroad Museum and Estate, in collaboration with the Philly 250 Women’s Committee. RSVP by November 11. Tickets and information: phlvisitorcenter.com/reimagining-belmont  Historic Marker Dedication — Friday, November 20, 2026, noon–2 p.m. Celebrate markers honoring Cornelia Wells, the Peters family and the Marquis de Lafayette, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission and the Lafayette Trail. RSVP by November 18. RSVP: Belmont-Dedication.rsvpify.com Both events: Belmont Mansion, 2000 Belmont Mansion Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19131. Websites: belmontmansion.org | the-sauce.co Instagram: @sauceco__ | LinkedIn: Sauce Co.   Also, filmmaker Jimmy Jenkins discusses God With Us and the story behind bringing the film to audiences, with screenings November 13–15. Website: godwithusmovie.com Instagram: @godwithusmovie | Facebook: God With Us Movie   Plus, filmmaker Sixx King joins Loraine to discuss his action drama, The King of Cannabis,  his work as a storyteller and nurturing the next generation of young filmmakers and actors. You can check out further updates or details on the Official King of Cannabis Website

Dr. Michael Burgess, a physician and former Republican congressman from Texas, joins me to discuss vaccine confidence, access and the role of policymakers in protecting public health. We explore the Republican administration’s approach to vaccination, questions about vaccine safety and how families can find reliable information. Website: fightinfectiousdisease.org X: @ThePFID |  LinkedIn: Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease

On this episode of What’s Going On, Loraine Ballard Morrill explores a family’s mission to protect young children, a Philadelphia activist’s extraordinary legacy, and the importance of making your voice heard. Jessica Roomberg, president and co-executive director of The Magical Mila Foundation, shares the story of her daughter Mila and the foundation’s work supporting early detection of high blood pressure in high-risk infants and toddlers. She discusses the BP Under 3 partnership with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and how the upcoming Butterfly Ball will help expand that work. Second Butterfly Ball Saturday, November 7, 2026Green Valley Country Club, Lafayette HillCelebrating Mila’s life and raising funds to expand BP Under 3.Honoring Dr. Alexander Fairman, Caitlin Haas, and Dr. Benjamin Laskin.For event updates and ways to support: MagicalMilaFoundation.orgInstagram and TikTok: @magicalmilafoundationFacebook: The Magical Mila FoundationThen, director Glenn Holsten and producer Rob Buscher discuss their documentary, Kiyoshi, about Philadelphia activist Kiyoshi Kuromiya. From his birth in a Japanese American incarceration camp to his work for civil rights, peace, LGBTQ+ liberation, and people living with HIV and AIDS, Kuromiya’s story reveals a lifetime devoted to justice. World Premiere of Kiyoshi Opening night of the Philadelphia Asian American Film FestivalThursday, November 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.Graham Auditorium, Moore College of Art & Design, 1916 Race Street, PhiladelphiaA panel discussion is scheduled to follow the screening.Tickets and festival information: paaff.orgInstagram: @kiyoshifilm and @glennholstenFacebook: Kiyoshi Documentary and Glenn HolstenFinally, Philadelphia City Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson discusses the importance of voting in the November 3 election, finding reliable voter information, and her efforts to address nuisance businesses and neighborhood quality-of-life concerns. Voter information: vote.phila.gov Councilmember Gilmore Richardson: phlcouncil.com/katherinegilmorerichardson Facebook: Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson Instagram: @councilmemberkgr X: @CouncilwomanKGR TikTok: @councilmember.kgr

On this segment of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Philadelphia City Council Majority Leader Katherine Gilmore Richardson about the upcoming election, making your voice heard, efforts to address nuisance businesses, and upcoming community events. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Pennsylvania polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters in line by 8 p.m. may vote. Completed mail-in and civilian absentee ballots must be received by the county election office by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Make a plan to vote and find reliable election information and polling locations at https://vote.phila.gov/. The councilmember also shares information about these upcoming events:Senior Resource Fair: Friday, November 13, 2026, 10 a.m.–noon, at Center in the Park, 5818 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia.Workforce Spotlight with the U.S. Census Bureau: Friday, November 13, 2026, 12:30–1 p.m., virtually via Zoom and the councilmember’s Facebook page.Couponing Class: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Location to be announced; follow the councilmember’s office for updates.Learn more: https://phlcouncil.com/katherinegilmorerichardson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CouncilmemberKGR/ Instagram: @councilmemberkgr   Then, Dr. Eniola Ajayi, Education Center Director, and Maryann McEvoy, Executive Director, discuss Merakey’s new Philadelphia Education Center, which serves students in kindergarten through eighth grade with autism support, emotional support, and therapy services. They explain how individualized learning, coordinated services, and family partnerships help students thrive. The center’s October 22, 2026, open house welcomed families and neighbors from 2–5 p.m., with a ribbon cutting and remarks at 2:30 p.m., at 3240 North Hancock Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140. The event included staff introductions, school tours, free family-friendly activities, light refreshments, and giveaways. Merakey: https://www.merakey.org/ Contact: [email protected] or [email protected]

Guest host Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati speaks with Christopher Benson author of Framing Emmett Till: Exposing Dark Fear, the new graphic novel illustrated by Eric Battle. Their conversation explores bringing this consequential history to the page and the power of visual storytelling to examine racism, memory, and justice.  Book Launch: Framing Emmett Till: Exposing Dark Fear Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 6–8 p.m.Kislak Center, Class of 1978 Orrery Pavilion, sixth floor, Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center, University of PennsylvaniaFeaturing Eric Battle, Christopher Benson, John Jennings, and Qiana Whitted.Open to the public. Event details and registration.  Then, for “What Is Philadelphia Reading?”, Vanesse speaks with Sibylla Shekerdjiska-Benatova, M.S.Ed., executive director of A Book a Day, about sharing the joy of reading and expanding children’s access to diverse books. The nonprofit donated more than 5,000 brand-new hardcover books in 2026, while requests to serve new locations more than doubled. A Book a Day’s Freedom to Learn Fundraiser Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 6 p.m.The Study, 20 South 33rd Street, PhiladelphiaProceeds from ticket sales and auction items help purchase new books for children. $10 provides one new book, while $250 supports a week’s worth of new baby books for Thomas Jefferson University Hospital’s Intensive Care Nursery.Purchase tickets.

For our monthly SpeakOUT conversation, attorney and LGBTQIA+ advocate Angela Giampolo joins Loraine to explore civil disobedience, LGBTQIA+ rights, and sustained civic participation. Inspired by Loraine’s experience witnessing peaceful demonstrations in Paris and Angela’s visit to Walden Pond, they consider Henry David Thoreau’s ideas about conscience, conformity, and nonviolent resistance. Angela shares her perspective on anti-trans political messaging, the midterm elections, and the limits of measuring a movement’s strength through rallies or election results alone. The conversation examines what it takes to turn public concern into ongoing organizing, community education, and meaningful action beyond the voting booth. Connect with Angela Giampolo Website: giampololaw.comInstagram: @YourGayLawyerFacebook: Giampolo Law GroupX: @PhillyGayLawyer

Loraine Ballard Morrill celebrates educators making a difference and explores the power of speaking out and staying engaged. We spotlight local honorees of the iHeartMedia and Boost Mobile Thank a Teacher campaign: Christine Durante of Riverton Public School, Kashmir Fluellen of Camden Promise Charter, Chef Kenneth McDuffie of Simon Gratz Mastery Charter, and Michael Winterbottom of Marple Newtown High School. They share their inspiration, commitment to students, and the lasting impact of great teaching.    Then, in our monthly SpeakOUT conversation, attorney and LGBTQIA+ advocate Angela Giampolo joins Loraine to explore civil disobedience, LGBTQIA+ rights, and sustained civic participation. Inspired by Loraine’s experience witnessing peaceful demonstrations in Paris and Angela’s visit to Walden Pond, they consider Henry David Thoreau’s ideas about conscience, conformity, and nonviolent resistance. Angela shares her perspective on anti-trans political messaging, the midterm elections, and the limits of measuring a movement’s strength through rallies or election results alone. The conversation examines what it takes to turn public concern into ongoing organizing, community education, and meaningful action beyond the voting booth. Connect with Angela Giampolo Website: giampololaw.comInstagram: @YourGayLawyerFacebook: Giampolo Law GroupX: @PhillyGayLawyer

Loraine Ballard Morrill celebrates inspiring educators, helps Philadelphia voters prepare for Election Day, and introduces a young artist using her voice to challenge expectations. We spotlight local honorees of the iHeartMedia and Boost Mobile Thank a Teacher campaign: Christine Durante of Riverton Public School, Kashmir Fluellen of Camden Promise Charter, Chef Kenneth McDuffie of Simon Gratz Mastery Charter, and Michael Winterbottom of Marple Newtown High School. They share their inspiration, commitment to students, and the lasting impact of great teaching.   Omar Sabir, Chair of the Philadelphia City Commissioners, discusses what voters need to know for the November 3 election, including mail ballots, polling places, and assistance available to help eligible voters participate.    Then, meet Precious Eshiet, known as Presh So Fresh, a Germantown Friends High School senior and winner of Chalkbeat Philadelphia’s first-ever back-to-school rap contest. She discusses her journey from poetry to rap, challenging stereotypes, and her hopes for inspiring younger students through music. Resources and social mediaPhiladelphia voter information: vote.phila.govPhiladelphia City Commissioners Instagram: @PhillyVotesChalkbeat Philadelphia: chalkbeat.org/philadelphiaChalkbeat Philadelphia Facebook: ChalkbeatPHLChalkbeat Philadelphia X: @ChalkbeatPHLChalkbeat Instagram: @ChalkbeatOrg

Dr. Clayton Yates of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine joins us to discuss breast cancer and other cancers affecting women of color, his commitment to advocacy and the research advancing our understanding of cancer disparities. We explore why continued support for cancer research matters and how scientific discoveries can help save lives. Learn more about the American Association for Cancer Research at aacr.org. Follow the conversation on X using #AACRMICR.

On What’s Going On  Loraine Ballard Morrill celebrates teachers, community service and the power of the arts. We spotlight local honorees of the iHeartMedia and Boost Mobile Thank a Teacher campaign: Christine Durante of Riverton Public School, Kashmir Fluellen of Camden Promise Charter, Chef Kenneth McDuffie of Simon Gratz Mastery Charter and Michael Winterbottom of Marple Newtown High School. They share their inspiration, their commitment to students and the lasting impact of great teaching.   Maria Macaluso, Executive Director of the Women’s Center of Montgomery County, discusses 50 years of supporting domestic violence survivors, essential services and ways to help. The Center’s 50th Anniversary Gala takes place Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 6–9 p.m., at The Highlands Mansion & Estate, 7001 Sheaff Lane, Fort Washington. Tickets are $150. Visit wcmontco.org for registration and information. The 24-hour hotline is 800-773-2424. Follow the Women’s Center on LinkedIn.   Singer-songwriter Suzann Christine, founder of SCH Creative & Performing Arts, previews the third annual Mothers Making Music and Moves, celebrating mothers in entertainment while supporting free youth arts programming and FLY—Forever Love Yourself. Hosted by Roxy Romeo, the fundraiser honors Aja Dantzler, Lady B, Mina SayWhat, Facetta Greene and Kerri Park Lennon. Join the celebration Friday, October 23, 2026, from 7–9 p.m., at Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center, 7 Lock Street, Philadelphia. General admission is $35; VIP admission is $100, plus fees. Find tickets at schcapa.org. Visit suzannchristine.com and follow Instagram @suzannchristine and @theflystar.

Loraine Ballard Morrill explores family legacy, second chances and the power of the arts with three Philadelphia changemakers. Author Rashida Jones-Aiken discusses her memoir, The Rhythm That Remained, and how grief led her to discover family history, explore her identity and establish Kiren House Publishing. Her Rhythm That Remained Book Experience takes place Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 3–7 p.m. at Jenice’s, 301 E. Godfrey Avenue, Philadelphia, featuring conversation, storytelling and ancestry visuals. Web: kirenhousepublishing.com Socials: Instagram @kirenhousepublishing · Facebook Kiren House Publishing   Dr. Victoria Best, founder of Victoria Urban Outreach Tutoring Service (VUOTS), reflects on ten years of empowering Philadelphia youth and families, the documentary Empowering Voices: Youth Narratives, and an upcoming opportunity to explore record-clearing options. Presented with Community Legal Services, the free Record Clearing Clinic takes place Saturday, October 17, 2026 10 am to 2:00 pm at The Braid Mill, 441 High Street, Philadelphia. Web and registration: vuots.org · Register for the clinic   Singer-songwriter Suzann Christine, founder of SCH Creative & Performing Arts, previews the third annual Mothers Making Music and Moves, supporting free youth arts programming and FLY—Forever Love Yourself. Hosted by Power 99’s Roxy Romeo, the celebration honors Aja Dantzler, Lady B, Mina SayWhat, Facetta Greene and Kerri Park Lennon, with live performances, a panel conversation and resources for parents. The fundraiser takes place Friday, October 23, 2026, from 7–9 p.m. at Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center, 7 Lock Street, Philadelphia. General admission is $35; VIP admission is $100, plus fees. Web and tickets: schcapa.org · suzannchristine.com Socials: Instagram @suzannchristine · @theflystar

Loraine Ballard Morrill talks with Jillian Patricia Pirtle, CEO of the Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society, and Azsherae Gary of the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance and Paul Robeson House & Museum, about preserving the legacies of two extraordinary artists and civil rights champions. They preview Marian and Paul: The Music and the Oration, a tribute concert bringing Marian Anderson’s and Paul Robeson’s stories to life through music and historic speeches. Proceeds benefit both museums. The concert takes place Friday, October 16, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Settlement Music Hall, 416 Queen Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147. Tickets are $40.   For tickets and information, visit marianandersonhistoricalsociety.weebly.com or call 215-779-4219. Explore the museums and their programs at marianandersonhistoricalsociety.weebly.com and paulrobesonhouse.org. Follow: Facebook National Marian Anderson Museum · Facebook Paul Robeson House & Museum · Instagram @robesonhousephl

Fairmount Park Conservancy CEO Tony Sorrentino reflects on his first year leading the organization and shares fall programs that bring recreation, wellness and community connection to Philadelphia’s parks. We also discuss Play for Parks, a free celebration on Friday, October 16, from 7–9 p.m. at the John Welsh Memorial Fountain in West Fairmount Park. Enjoy Chill Moody’s Klubbhouse, special guests, local vendors and a fireworks finale at 8:50 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Find the fall calendar at myphillypark.org. Follow @myphillypark on Instagram and Fairmount Park Conservancy on Facebook and LinkedIn.   How can families facing a medical crisis manage the overwhelming out-of-pocket costs that insurance doesn’t cover? Kelly L. Green, Executive Director of Help Hope Live, joins us to discuss how the national nonprofit helps families fundraise for medical expenses while providing personalized support and resources.   We also preview Help Hope Live’s 14th Annual Live It Up! Gala, Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 6–9 p.m. at The Drexelbrook, 4700 Drexelbrook Drive in Drexel Hill, PA. The evening features dinner, an open bar, silent auction and the Help Hope Live Awards, while raising funds to support the organization’s mission. Web: HelpHopeLive.org Socials: Facebook, Instagram & X @HelpHopeLiveOrg · LinkedIn Help Hope Live · TikTok & YouTube @HelpHopeLive.   Finally we speak to  Peggy Dolan, Founder of the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund, and Danielle Griffith, Executive Director, as the organization celebrates 50 years of helping families caring for children with serious illnesses and disabilities. Since its founding, the Fund has helped more than 50,000 families and paid more than $10 million in essential bills. The conversation also explores new initiatives including ExchangeABLE, which redistributes adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, and Unity Sports, an inclusive soccer program pairing children with disabilities with student-athlete buddies. The Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund will mark its milestone anniversary with Foodies & Philanthropy, Thursday, October 9, 2026, at Lilah in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia. Proceeds benefit families served by the Fund.    https://dolanfund.org/

Fairmount Park Conservancy CEO Tony Sorrentino reflects on his first year leading the organization and shares fall programs that bring recreation, wellness and community connection to Philadelphia’s parks. We also discuss Play for Parks, a free celebration on Friday, October 16, from 7–9 p.m. at the John Welsh Memorial Fountain in West Fairmount Park. Enjoy Chill Moody’s Klubbhouse, special guests, local vendors and a fireworks finale at 8:50 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Find the fall calendar at myphillypark.org. Follow @myphillypark on Instagram and Fairmount Park Conservancy on Facebook and LinkedIn. My iHeartMedia colleague - WDAS FM’s Frankie Darcell shares her breast cancer journey, why she founded Sista Strut, and her message to Black women about mammograms and protecting their breast health. Find a location or schedule a screening with iHeartMedia partner Solis Mammography at SolisMammo.com, or call 866-717-2551. If you have a breast symptom, call to ask about a diagnostic appointment.   We explore the impact of Black teachers, the power of Philadelphia’s parks to connect communities, and a personal call to prioritize breast health. I talk with Sharif El-Mekki, founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development, about why Black teachers matter and how to build the next generation of educators. We preview the 9th Annual Black Men in Education Convening, November 13–15, 2026, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market Street. This year’s theme is “Rooted in History: Constructing the Next 100 Years of Education.” Information and registration: thecenterblacked.org. Follow Instagram @centerblacked and Facebook Center for Black Educator Development. #BMEC2026