This 'n That
This ‘n That actually started in 1967 as a 15-minute "radio bingo" show that gradually evolved into WPLA’s most popular program EVER - a daily two-hour talkfest hosted by Al Berry (pictured at right) and Ercelle Smith (below). The show became so popular that there was always a waiting list of sponsors willing to fork over premium rates to promote their product or business on the show.
Many of the listeners calling in became “instant celebrities” in their own right, such as the always popular Aunt Maggie, from Springhead, who would call in from time to time to spin yarns on the air about the old days, and to talk about tanning rattlesnake hides. There was C.B. Alexander of Seffner, who raised pit bulls and liked to talk about “Dirty Bloody Red,” the biggest and most feared daddy pit bulldog of them all. “Junior” from Lakeland would call in at least once-a-week with his animal impersonations, and the “Bonnet Lady” would tell about her handmade sun bonnets.
 This ‘n That not only had its buy, sell, and trade phone calls and its cast of funny characters, but from time to time it was a forum for local issues. The program also assisted area people in need. With the help of listeners and area business people, the program once raised $50,000 for a man who needed to have a heart transplant. On other occasions, the show assisted families who suffered losses from house fires, and even helped pay for burials. One time the show played Cupid by pairing up a number of people who wound up getting married.
After WPLA was sold in 1987, Berry left the show. This ‘n That ended its 23- year run when Smith retired in 1990.
Station History
1967 - 1990 WPLA (Featured Program)
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