What to look for on Smart Talk Tuesday, March 1, 2016:

Since Russia became active militarily in Syria's civil war, we haven't heard much about violence between Ukrainian fighters and Russian-backed separatists.  Even though a cease fire has been in place for the last six months, there are dozens of violations -- by both sides -- every day.  The violations have increased since January.

Another cease-fire agreement -- this one even more fragile -- began last weekend in Syria.  If it is effective will it mean the Russians will divert attention to Ukraine?  And if they do, then what?

Ukraine leaning toward Europe economically, sanctions against Russia, Russia's annexation of Crimea and the ambitions of Russian President Vladimir Putin all are part of the conversation.

On Tuesday's Smart Talk, we'll also discuss the implications for the west with former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Steven Pifer and Dickinson College Professor of History, Karl Qualls.

Ambassador Pifer speaks at Dickinson Wednesday night at 7.

Also, Pennsylvanians love the outdoors and some of our favorite activities outdoors include hiking, running, or biking on nature trails.  History is also one of our favorite topics and that's why a 250-mile trail under development would be of great interest.  The Grand History Trail   would connect York and Gettysburg with Frederick, Baltimore and Annapolis in Maryland, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Washington D.C.   A few of the trails exist already, but not the complete trail.

Joining us Tuesday's program are Pennsylvania Secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Cindy Dunn, and Don Gogniat, an author, educator and traveler, who is one of the biggest advocates for the Grand History Trail.

Cindy Dunn and Don Gogniat