Good post..go to AutoZone and have them check your fuse..They will usually help you out..

WheelBrokerAng :)

appreciate all the help! i did in fact turn out to be just a blown fuse. so relieved! i seriously thought i totaled my radio when i saw that spark when i tried to pry it open with a screwdriver, and i thought i just made it worse when i took the radio apart and accidently removed the ribbon-like cable on the board. lol.

turns out it was just a blown fuse. must be careful next time. again, i really am grateful for your help!!!

PROBLEM RESOLVED

radio/cd player is all good and now i can use my GTA car kit!! yeah!!