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When people come together and talk about really interesting topics, great questions spark better understanding and opportunities for new ideas to form. On The Spark from WITF, hosts Scott LaMar and Aniya Faulcon start the conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.
1976 Episodes
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(00:00:00) Reporters Carter Walker of Votebeat and Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA will join us to review the results of Tuesday's election, which includes the Mayoral Election in Harrisburg and the retention vote for three PA Supreme Court justices. (00:21:19) With an estimated 59 million unpaid caregivers in the U.S., many individuals find themselves balancing their own lives while providing emotional, physical, and logistical support to loved ones—often without adequate resources or rest. This balancing act can come at a cost: high stress, emotional exhaustion, burnout, and even physical health decline.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) November 19 marks the anniversary of the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg. The Gettysburg National Cemetery is famous throughout the world today as the site of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered at the cemetery's dedication ceremonies four and a half months after the battle. (00:21:43) WITF Reporter Jaxon White talks about the status of SNAP in Pennsylvania.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) Jesse Krimes is a multimedia artist whose work is now featured in the MET. He spoke with Asia Tabb at WITF's Premier Circle event last week. This is that interview. (00:31:26) Dr. John R. Haddad is the author of a new book, “Thrill Ride: The Transformation of Hersheypark.” Dr. Haddad is professor of American Studies and Popular Culture at Penn State Harrisburg. 'Thrill Ride’ combines storytelling with deep historical research to take readers on a journey through Hersheypark’s transformation from a traditional amusement park for chocolate factory employees to a major attraction enjoyed by millions. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) Prodigy Spectrum Management is York's first and only facility housing homeless veterans and supporting them while they get back on their feet. (00:23:17) YWCA's Veterans Services provides a full range of employment readiness services to eligible homeless veterans seeking employment and self-sufficiency. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) 717 Vintage Fest features a selection of the region’s most established and up-and-coming vintage stores and independent vendors. Learn more about why we should shop vintage, the differences between vintage shopping and thrifting at other stores, and more. (00:21:57) Today marks the start of National School Psychology Week, and we celebrate and learn about the functions of school psychologist and the impact they can make on our students from this year's recipients of the school Psychologist of the year award.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on The Spark Weekly we highlight two important conversations on Disabilities. At St. James Episcopal Church in Lancaster, a new three-day program called Encountering Disability is sparking dialogue about faith, inclusion, and the human experience. The event, running November 1–3, brings together community partners, advocates, and educators to explore how faith communities can help bridge gaps between disability, policy, and public health. For many, losing vision can feel like losing opportunities, but for Clinton Tyler and Maribel Surita, Vision Corps in Lancaster has been a place of empowerment, growth, and professional achievement. Both employees credit the nonprofit organization with giving them tools, training, and support to thrive in the workplace despite visual impairments.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) As Pennsylvania voters prepare for next Tuesday’s elections, local journalists gathered to provide insights on the candidates, races, and issues shaping the ballot. The discussion featured Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Jade Campos, Tom Lisi, and Ashley Stalnecker of LNP/Lancaster Online. (00:22:17) On October 4, 2025, a local Braver Angels debate brought community members together to discuss the resolution: “Immigrants in this country illegally should have a path to legalize their status.” The event offered a unique approach to civil discourse, emphasizing understanding over winning.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) A new centerpiece now graces the Women’s History Garden at the Civic Club of Harrisburg: The Garden Goddess, a living tribute to generations of women who have shaped the community. (00:22:02) Nearly four decades after overcoming her own struggles with addiction, Bucknell University Professor Judy Grisel has dedicated her life to understanding why some people become dependent on drugs — and how the brain plays a role in that process. But as Grisel told The Spark’s Asia Tabb, her journey toward becoming a neuroscientist began for a very personal reason.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) Every second counts when it comes to a stroke, says Lauren Swartz, Nurse Navigator with the UPMC Neurological Institute. Ahead of World Stroke Day, Swartz joined The Spark to remind listeners that knowing the warning signs—and acting fast—can save lives. (00:20:24) as spooky season approaches, historian Chrissy Senecal says that monsters were very real to people living in medieval Europe — though not always in the ways we imagine. “In fact, there were,” she said. “Spooky season is my favorite season, and I am so happy to talk about the way that medieval people thought about monsters and how they were different from maybe what we think of as monsters today.”Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) We learn about Roblox new initiative for parents that will help inform them on how to educate their children to interact safely online. (00:22:13) Adam Zurn shares local ghost stories with us in honor of Halloween week.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) Encountering Disability is a series of free events over three days focused on community health and public policy as well as community inclusion and spirituality. Asia speaks with keynote speakers Marisa Brown and Michael Gamel-McCormick, as well as Rev. David Peck who spearheaded the initiative. (00:22:04) Consumer Affairs recently published a report covering the top metros in the U.S. with the worst housing shortages. These areas were found after researchers at the site calculated metrics like the vacancy ratio for the 200 most populous metro areas in the country. Not one, not two, but three spots in the Keystone State were ranked amongst the top 10: York in second; Harrisburg in fifth; and Lancaster in ninth.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month—a time to celebrate second chances and spread awareness about the thousands of animals waiting for homes. At the York County SPCA, the mission is clear: every pet deserves a loving, permanent home. (00:21:29) A new community resource is taking shape in Harrisburg — and it’s not your typical library. The Harrisburg Tool Library aims to lend out everything from drills and garden shears to crockpots and bubble machines, all in the name of empowerment and community care.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) State College’s NPR station, WPSU, will continue broadcasting after all, following a new partnership agreement with Philadelphia’s WHYY. The plan, unanimously approved by Penn State trustees, allows WPSU-TV and radio to join WHYY without requiring a $17 million subsidy from the university, which was a sticking point in a previously rejected proposal. WHYY now has 30 days to secure at least $8.4 million in funding to complete the transfer, which also requires Federal Communications Commission approval. the recent firing of Penn State Football Coach James Franklin, which has been a major topic in the community. (00:22:06) For many, losing vision can feel like losing opportunities, but for Clinton Tyler and Maribel Surita, Vision Corps in Lancaster has been a place of empowerment, growth, and professional achievement. Both employees credit the nonprofit organization with giving them tools, training, and support to thrive in the workplace despite visual impairments.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) From the grand architecture of Hershey’s iconic buildings to the elegant homes lining Lancaster’s streets, Cassius Emlen Urban’s legacy is etched into the very landscape of Central Pennsylvania. (00:22:15) Pennsylvania hospitals continue to grapple with staffing shortages, affecting not only nurses and doctors but a wide range of hospital roles, from surgical technologists to plumbers and IT specialists. A recent workforce survey by the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) highlights the scope of the challenge.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is celebrating 45 years! Learn about the history of the event and what you can expect when you visit. (00:22:12) The Harrisburg Tool Library is a place where neighbors can access power tools, gardening equipment and so much more, without breaking the bank.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) CeaseFirePA recently hosted a discussion titled “Most Gun Deaths Are Suicide—It’s Time to Act”, drawing attention to a critical but often overlooked aspect of gun violence. (00:22:21) As the temperatures dip and leaves begin to fall, gardeners have plenty to think about beyond raking. Horticulturist Erica Jo Schaefer joined The Spark to share her expertise on preparing gardens for winter and ensuring a vibrant spring. “The bulbs should be being planted right now and you can plant as long as the ground isn’t frozen. You could even be planting bulbs on Thanksgiving Day,” Erica explained. For Pennsylvania gardeners, she recommends snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, and tulips—while noting that deer preferences can influence what you plant.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month—a time to celebrate second chances and spread awareness about the thousands of animals waiting for homes. At the York County SPCA, the mission is clear: every pet deserves a loving, permanent home.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) What began as an informal experiment with a single camera and a borrowed guitar has evolved into one of WITF’s most vibrant projects — WITF Music. also on the program: (00:21:20) A new October poll from Franklin & Marshall College suggests that many Pennsylvanians are feeling uncertain about the direction of the state — and the health of democracy itself.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) After nearly five decades behind the lens, photographer Joseph A. Rosen says it finally felt like the right time to share the stories he’s captured through his camera. His new book, Inside the Moment: Iconic Blues, Soul, Jazz, Rock, and R&B Images and History), celebrates the emotional and historical power of live performance in striking black and white. (00:22:13) Each year, the third week of October marks Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, a reminder that one of the most dangerous — yet entirely preventable — environmental illnesses continues to affect families across Pennsylvania.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(00:00:00) At the University of Pittsburgh, fear has found a new home — in academia. The university is now home to the world’s first academic center dedicated to the study of horror, exploring how the genre reflects society’s deepest anxieties and historical traumas. (00:22:19) Pennsylvania residents could see major jumps in their health insurance premiums next year, according to Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. “The rate increases are pretty significant,” Humphreys said, attributing much of the rise to federal inaction. “Pennsylvanians and insurers in Pennsylvania face serious challenges due to Congress's failure to extend enhanced premium tax credits before open enrollment.”Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Does anyone else hear a very high-pitched noise in the background? A good talk overall, anlhough the noise was distracting.