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October 5, 2006 - WUIS to air Halloween specials, plus two new series

SPRINGFIELD – Public Radio WUIS 91.9FM-WIPA 89.3FM will broadcast two special programs on Halloween night, Tuesday, October 31.

In their Halloween edition of "Politics Takes a Holiday!," comedy group the Capitol Steps look to become the first radio performers ever to bring Mel Gibson, the NSA, and a few singing stem cells all together in one broadcast. Air time: 6:30 p.m.

"Dracula: The Radio Play" is Gordon Productions' presentation of the classic vampire tale in 1940s style, radio-readers format, complete with creepy sound effects. Taped during a performance before a live audience earlier in the month, the play features cast members Troy Kemp, Aasne Vigesaa, Don Schneider, Dennis Rendleman, Gus Gordon, Mary Beth Maloney, Mary Young, and Jason Goodreau. Air time: 7 p.m.

Two new programs -- Word for Word and The Health Show -- have also joined the station's regular weekly lineup.

Airing on Sundays from 3 to 4 p.m., Word for Word offers listeners a chance to hear from newsmakers at length. Each program features a timely speech on a hot topic in the news. Host Melinda Penkava, a 15-year veteran of public radio, provides crucial background information and context, then opens the microphone to allow speakers the time they need to make a nuanced argument. Recent programs have included a conversation between Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and retired Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on the power and limitations of the judicial system.

The Health Show, airing Mondays from 6:30 to 7 p.m., covers all aspects of modern health: prevention, treatment, research, administration, and more. Each program breaks down the issues to allow listeners to become better informed patients and care-givers. Recent programs have included a look at the ways in which cultural differences affect how women experience the symptoms of menopause; a case before the New York Supreme Court challenging a state requirement that employers cover prescription contraceptives; and a conversation with author and IBS sufferer Tim Phelan, whose book Romance, Riches and Restrooms: A Cautionary Tale of Ambitious Dreams and Irritable Bowels finds some humor in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

WUIS-WIPA is listener-supported public radio for central and west central Illinois, now in its 31st year of broadcasting from the campus of the University of Illinois at Springfield. WUIS’ mission is to satisfy a curious, societally engaged audience through programming and community outreach. For WUIS’ complete program schedule, events, and other information, go to www.wuis.org.