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The Spark

WITF, Inc.

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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, host Asia Tabb starts conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.
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Smart Talk is a daily, live, interactive program featuring conversations with newsmakers and experts in a variety of fields and exploring a wide range of issues and ideas, including the economy, politics, health care, education, culture, and the environment. Smart Talk airs live every week day at 9 a.m. on WITF's 89.5 and 93.3.
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Grapple

Keystone Crossroads

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From small towns to big cities — Grapple gives voice to people living and working in distressed communities. Through personal narratives and long-form storytelling, you hear conversations that tell the story of America’s profound economic and social changes — including how distressed communities have changed over time, what they’re grappling with today, and how they’re redefining themselves. Grapple’s first season takes you to a series of communities across Pennsylvania that were once vibran ...
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In this festive episode, we explore the magic behind American Music Theatre’s 2025 Christmas Show, celebrating the sights, sounds, and spirit of the season. We also spotlight Pennsylvania’s Blue Ribbon School awardees, honoring outstanding achievement and educational excellence across the state. Plus, we take a journey through the State Museum’s Am…
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Chesapeake Bay officials elected Gov. Josh Shapiro to lead a regional agreement to help clean and restore the waterway. he first-term Democrat will take the reins at a tumultuous time for the forty-year-old partnership. Gov. Josh Shapiro says he’s going to break Pennsylvania from its history of taking a BACKSEAT to Chesapeake Bay conservation. The …
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(00:00:00) Chesapeake Bay officials elected Gov. Josh Shapiro to lead a regional agreement to help clean and restore the waterway. he first-term Democrat will take the reins at a tumultuous time for the forty-year-old partnership. Gov. Josh Shapiro says he’s going to break Pennsylvania from its history of taking a BACKSEAT to Chesapeake Bay conserv…
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(00:00:00) Chad-Alan Carr is the new Mayor of Gettysburg, after his November election win. Carr defeated incumbent Rita Frealing in the May Democratic primary by a few dozen votes. Carr, an at-large member of the Gettysburg Borough Council, campaigned on improving transparency in the mayor’s office and delegating certain authorities to the Borough …
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(00:00:00) Justina remained stuck on probation. Not because she posed any safety risk, but because she couldn’t afford the last $500 of restitution she owed. Despite finishing jail time, rehab, and community service, her probation kept restarting every six months due to the unpaid balance. Without a driver’s license following her DUI conviction, sh…
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(00:00:00) We are joined once again by Catherine Lawrence of Midtown Scholar and Travis Kurowski of York College to recommend some holiday book selections for you and your loved ones! (00:22:26) A letter signed by 237 faith leaders from diverse religious traditions across Pennsylvania will be delivered to state lawmakers urging them to pass compreh…
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Broadway comes to Lancaster this holiday season with Elf the Musical, and local audiences are in for a treat. Ben Fankhauser, who plays Buddy the Elf, said performing at the Fulton Theatre has been a special experience. “I have fallen in love with the Fulton Theater and I hope that Lancaster residents realize that they have a Broadway-caliber perfo…
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(00:00:00) November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM), and the call to action is "All in for National Epilepsy Awareness Month.” (00:21:59) Pediatricians are speaking often and openly with parents who are anxious about the safety of vaccines amid changing federal policies (00:33:48) Dan Tomaso and Asia Tabb speak about what weather we can…
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(00:00:00) Buddy the Elf takes on New York City in Elf the Musical at The Fulton Theatre. Asia speaks with Broadway star Ben Fankhauser and Director/Choreographer Maura Newberry Greer. (00:22:14) The Pennsylvania Public Relations Society (PPRS) marked its 75th anniversary on November 8, with a celebration in Cumberland County. This year’s celebrati…
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(00:00:00) Susquehanna Art Museum presents If Herr Street Could Talk, the homecoming exhibition of award-winning abstract artist and Harrisburg native, Alteronce Gumby. (00:21:47) Franklin and Marshall College have announced a major initiative designed to make the Lancaster-based private school more affordable. Under the program known as Commonweal…
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(00:00:00) Move Past Plastic founder Tamela Trussell says her organization exists to help communities better understand the growing dangers of single-use plastics in the region. “The heart of our mission is to be a resource for understanding the complexities and potential harms of single-use plastic,” she said, noting that the group works with part…
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(00:00:00) We are joined by 2 officials of the Lancaster County Community Foundation, CEO Sam Bressiand Executive Vice President Tracy Cutler, as well as Robin Stauffer, Executive Director of the High Foundations to talk all things ExtraGive. (00:22:16) Penn State Dickinson Law Prof. Stanley Brand, a Distinguished Fellow in Law and Government, will…
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((00:00:00)) Elizabethtown College is transforming history education with its Public Heritage Studies program, led by director Jean-Paul Benowitz. This immersive, community-driven approach takes students beyond the classroom into Pennsylvania’s rich cultural landscape, preparing them for careers in archives, museums, and historic sites through hand…
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(00:00:00) This Giving Tuesday, The YCSPCA want you to know how you can give compassion to those who need it most, our favorite furry friends. (00:22:14) Move Past Plastic (MPP) is a grassroots organization in Central Pennsylvania. They are a collective of individuals, businesses, and organizations working to mitigate the toxic impacts of plastic t…
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(00:00:00) President and CEO Mary Quinn talks about the 18th Annual Pursuit of Justice Purse Auction, featuring designer purses in a live and silent auction. Proceeds benefit the YWCA Legal Programs. (00:22:48) Nov. 19 is National Women's Entrepreneurship Day (Women's Entrepreneurship Day Organization) and November is National Entrepreneurship Mont…
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(00:00:00) Located across the river from downtown Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania Regional Ballets launches this year's Nutcracker season. (00:21:54) The 34th Annual Will Huffman Toy Train Expo is "gathering steam" and bringing traditions to hundreds of children and families across Central Pa. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See o…
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Horticulturalist Erica Jo Shaffer reunites with Scott and brings him a "tasty treat" as they talk about fall lawn and garden cleanup as well as care for mums and Christmas trees. Dr. Amanda Cheromiah, Executive Director at the Center for the Futures of Native Peoples at Dickinson College discusses the initiative dedicated to advancing the understan…
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During today's Journalist Roundtable we look more in-depth on some stories that have flown under the radar. We're joined by Katie Meyer and Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA, the online statewide news service, and Brett Sholtis, who reports for the Philadelphia Inquirer. All three are veterans of WITF's newsroom. Also, after a float depicting the gate to th…
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Shila Ulrich, CEO and Zach Zook, Chief Strategy Officer at the Central Pennsylvania Foodbank discuss food insecurity in Central Pennsylvania as the holiday season approaches. Mystery and thriller author David Baldacci to discusses the Wish You Well Foundation that he founded with his wife as well as his latest release "Nash Falls" and its upcoming …
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Horticulturalist Erica Jo Shaffer reunites with Scott and brings him a "tasty treat" as they talk about fall lawn and garden cleanup as well as care for mums and Christmas trees. Dr. Amanda Cheromiah, Executive Director at the Center for the Futures of Native Peoples at Dickinson College discusses the initiative dedicated to advancing the understan…
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Today is Veterans Day – a day to honor all those who have served in the United States Military. First up, our guest is: (00:00:00) Major General Michael E. Wegscheider is the Division Deputy Adjutant General-Army for Pennsylvania's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and was the General of the 28th Infantry Division. He’ll talk about the DM…
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(00:00:00) More than 15 hundred people have died as the result of domestic violence in Pennsylvania over the past ten years. Many more people are living in abusive relationships or homes. Domestic violence is more than physical violence against someone. Often it can be emotional or financial abuse directed at someone. Domestic violence is a scourge…
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Lancaster native Jesse Krimes has turned personal experience into a powerful artistic voice. While serving a prison sentence in his twenties, Krimes used art to process his experiences and reclaim his humanity. What began as a survival tool behind bars has grown into a career that has taken his work from makeshift materials in prison to major museu…
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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 themsel…
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(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 Reporte…
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(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 a…
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(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…
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(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 celebra…
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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 educator…
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(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…
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(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 understa…
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(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…
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(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.…
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(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 publi…
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(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. T…
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(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 rejec…
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(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 hospita…
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(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…
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(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 …
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(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…
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(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…
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(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…
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(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 …
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(00:00:00) For nearly 40 years, The Pennsylvania Bakery in Camp Hill has been more than a place to buy desserts—it’s been a community cornerstone built on faith, family, and a steadfast commitment to quality. (00:22:13) A new October poll from Franklin & Marshall College suggests that many Pennsylvanians are feeling uncertain about the direction of…
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(00:00:00) Alex Monroe’s journey in track and field is one of dedication, growth, and coming full circle. A former Mifflin County athlete and Lock Haven University competitor who ran on the international stage, Monroe is now returning to his roots—not as a runner, but as a coach leading the next generation. (00:22:57) What began as an informal expe…
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In 50 STATES OF MURDER: An Atlas of American Crime, true crime master Harold Schechter, reveals lesser known, darkly fascinating cases that, taken together, form a unique criminal history of all 50 states in the US! This week, libraries across the country, including the Cumberland County Library System, are taking part in National Banned Books Week…
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Lancaster’s vibrant theater scene is getting a thought-provoking addition this month as the Lancaster Shakespeare Theatre presents Streamers, a powerful drama set during the height of the Vietnam War. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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For many in Central Pennsylvania, surf fishing might seem like a distant coastal pastime, but Matt Bryson, a Harrisburg/Hershey resident, has turned the sport into a personal passion and a competitive triumph. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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This week, libraries across the country, including the Cumberland County Library System, are taking part in National Banned Books Week, a celebration of the freedom to read and an effort to raise awareness about attempts to remove books from public shelves. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy…
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A historic log cabin in downtown Gettysburg is being restored to become the town’s first dedicated Black History Museum, highlighting the lives and legacy of the Hopkins family and the wider Black community in the area. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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