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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We welcome Michael Melillo, a Pennsylvania author whose book What the River Kept uncovers a deeply personal World War II story preserved through years of conversations with his grandfather, "Pop." What began as a family history became a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to and preserving firsthand accounts before they're lost to time. With the recent passing of country music icon Dolly Parton at age 80, fans around the world are reflecting on a career that spanned more than six decades and touched countless lives through music, storytelling, humor, and philanthropy. Today we're
We welcome Michael Melillo, a Pennsylvania author whose book What the River Kept uncovers a deeply personal World War II story preserved through years of conversations with his grandfather, "Pop." What began as a family history became a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to and preserving firsthand accounts before they're lost to time. Also on the program: Join Amy Mintmier, Supervisor of Therapy Services at UPMC Carlisle, for a conversation about the vital role rehabilitation professionals play in helping people recover from severe illness and injury and regain independence in t
Explore the outdoors without limits in this episode featuring Brook Lenker and John Naylor, co-authors of the South Central Pennsylvania Accessible Adventure Guidebook, along with Kate Prisby, Manager of Events and Programs at the Keystone Trails Association. The conversation highlights the inspiration behind the guidebook, the research and trail scouting that went into identifying accessible outdoor destinations across the region, and why inclusive recreation matters. Back-to-school season brings new opportunities and new challenges for students, parents, and educators. In this episode, we si
Rev. David Biser, author, historian, and first-person interpreter of John Harris Jr. As America marks its 250th anniversary, Biser brings to life the world of Harris' Ferry (Paxton) in 1776, exploring what everyday life was like in the growing frontier community that would become Pennsylvania's capital. From work, trade, currency, food, and leisure to Native relations, slavery, and the impact of the Revolutionary War, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the people and challenges that shaped early Harrisburg. With more than 15 years portraying John Harris Jr., Biser shares the storie
We meet Charles Bittner and Mark Bowyer, the newly appointed co-chairs of Braver Angels’ Heritage Alliance, serving Adams, Franklin, and Fulton counties. A psychologist and a pastor, respectively, Bittner and Bowyer share a common mission: helping people reconnect across political differences through respectful conversation, humility, and understanding. They discuss why civil discourse has become increasingly difficult, what keeps people from engaging with those who hold different views, and how Braver Angels’ programs and workshops help Americans build stronger relationships despite disagreem
What happens when community focused organizations come together to support young scholars beginning a new school year? In this episode, we hit the road to the Back-to-School Extravaganza which was hosted on Saturday, August 15 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. In the first half of the program we speak with Christy Renjilian, the Executive Director at Community Connections for Children and Kim Istvan, Community Impact Manager-Education at United Way of the Capital Region. Kim and Christy talk about the "why" behind the event that served approximately 1,500 children. In the se
What began with opening a family home to wounded soldiers has grown into one of Pennsylvania's leading veteran support organizations. In this episode, Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors co-founder Helen Sajer reflects on two decades of helping veterans in crisis, inspired by gratitude for her son's military service. Joining her is Dennis Leonard, a combat veteran who lost both legs in Iraq and whose life was transformed through the nonprofit's support. Their stories offer a powerful look at compassion, recovery, and the enduring bonds of the veteran community. Later in the episode Lisa Landis Ficke
What does it take to run a humanitarian organization that serves millions of people around the world from right here in Pennsylvania? In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Landis Fickes, Director of Development and Communications at Mission Central, to explore the incredible work happening behind the scenes at one of the nation's leading humanitarian aid organizations. From disaster relief and medical equipment programs to volunteer engagement and global partnerships, Lisa shares how Mission Central mobilizes resources to respond to crises both near and far. We welcome Melissa from the Mid-At
In this episode, we explore the rich history and founding of Lititz, Pennsylvania, with Cory Van Brookhoven, President of the Lititz Historical Foundation. A third-generation Lititz historian, Cory has led the Foundation since 2013, authored four books on Lancaster County history, and written more than 300 local history articles. He shares the fascinating story of Lititz's origins, dating back to 1742 and the early influence of the Moravian Church, including the historic visit of Count Nicholas Louis von Zinzendorf to the area. History enthusiasts and Central Pennsylvania listeners alike will
What began with opening a family home to wounded soldiers has grown into one of Pennsylvania's leading veteran support organizations. In this episode, Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors co-founder Helen Sajer reflects on two decades of helping veterans in crisis, inspired by gratitude for her son's military service. Joining her is Dennis Leonard, a combat veteran who lost both legs in Iraq and whose life was transformed through the nonprofit's support. Their stories offer a powerful look at compassion, recovery, and the enduring bonds of the veteran community. As Sandi’s Breads celebrates its 20th
We explore Mothers on the Move (MOM), a Penn State College of Medicine-led initiative founded by Dr. Vida Abedi to support first-time mothers and their families through partnered dance, social connection, and community engagement. Joined by community leaders Priscilla Fias and Janeen Christ, the program aims to reduce isolation, strengthen family bonds, and create a supportive network for new parents. Learn how local fundraising efforts made the first free pilot program possible, the role dance plays in promoting well-being, and how Central Pennsylvania communities are coming together to help
What happens when a personal health concern sparks a thriving business? Katie and Eric Roering, founders of Lancaster, Pennsylvania-based Fontana Candle Company, set out to create non-toxic candles after traditional candles caused headaches. What began as a small operation in their home has grown into a nationwide manufacturing business with a 22-person team and customers across the country. WildHeart Ministries is making a lasting impact in Harrisburg's Allison Hill neighborhood through affordable housing, community development, and neighborhood revitalization. In this episode, we sit down wi
More than 220 miles of the Appalachian Trail weave through Pennsylvania, winding across mountains, valleys, and streams—and right through the heart of central PA. This iconic footpath stretches 2,197 miles from Georgia to Maine, challenging hikers from all walks of life to take part in one of the most grueling and inspiring outdoor adventures in the country. This week, The Spark team set out to meet some of these determined “thru-hikers” by offering a little surprise comfort along the way—what trail veterans fondly call “Trail Magic.” Armed with a cooler full of cold drinks, fresh fruit, and s
As summer wraps up in Pennsylvania, Asia Tabb sits down with Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary of Tourism Anne Ryan for a postmortem look at how the Commonwealth handled a busy summer filled with major events, festivals, and visitors. They discuss what went well, the challenges along the way, the economic and tourism impacts across the state, and what Pennsylvania learned from the experience. It's a chance to assess the results of the preparation efforts discussed earlier this year and explore what the season ultimately meant for Pennsylvania's communities, businesses, and tourism industry. Dauphi
Dauphin County Coroner Graham Hetrick is calling for stricter regulations, and potentially an outright ban, on kratom, a widely available but largely unregulated substance sold in convenience stores and gas stations across Pennsylvania. Hetrick says the drug, which has opioid-like effects, has been linked to local deaths and poses serious health risks, including seizures, liver failure, and, in some cases, death. He is urging parents to be aware of its availability and calling on state lawmakers to take action. Joining the conversation are Dr. Sara Kawasaki, Division Director of Addiction Serv
This episode features Rev. Jim Grossnickle-Batterton and Rebekah Priest, organizers of PeaceFest: Forging Peace & Cultivating Justice Together, a family-friendly community event taking place September 19, 2026, in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Representing local Church of the Brethren congregations, Jim and Rebekah share the vision behind PeaceFest and the importance of fostering peace, justice, and community engagement in today's world. Harrisburg Opera Association is launching its first complete season in more than 20 years, marking a major milestone in the organization's evolution toward a multidis
We explore the power of university-employer partnerships in shaping the next generation of leaders. Joining us are Alix J. Rouby, Director of Internships and Experiential Learning at Shippensburg University Career Center, and Angela Meyers, Director of Talent Acquisition at Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. Step back in time and discover the enduring legacy of Central Pennsylvania’s general stores. Once the cornerstone of colonial settlements and early American communities, these stores served as much more than places to shop. They were gathering spaces where neighbors connected, news was share
Step inside the Antique Marketplace of Lemoyne, the largest antique mall in Pennsylvania, and discover the stories behind one of Central PA's most unique destinations. Home to more than 275 vendors, the historic property has evolved from a 1913 bakery and horse stable to a thriving marketplace filled with antiques, collectibles, vintage treasures, and small businesses. Earlier this summer, we discussed how Pennsylvania was preparing for a packed season of major events, tourism, and travel. Now, we're closing the loop with a post-summer look back. Joining us is Anne Ryan, Pennsylvania's Deputy
Join Dr. Elaine Farkas, Associate Professor of Physical and Environmental Sciences at Commonwealth University, for a fascinating conversation about the Strait Planetarium on the Mansfield Campus and its role in connecting communities to the wonders of the universe. Named in honor of beloved educator George “Daddy” Strait, the planetarium serves as a gateway to science, discovery, and lifelong learning for residents across north-central and central Pennsylvania. We explore why astronomy matters and how understanding the cosmos helps us better understand our own planet, our place in the universe
On The Spark, we spoke with Peter Kistler, editor of The War They Won, a remarkable book preserving the firsthand accounts of more than 200 World War II veterans. The project began with Peter’s brother, Hobart Kistler, who spent 17 years interviewing veterans after starting the effort while still in high school. Following Hobart’s untimely death, Peter completed the manuscript, ensuring those stories would reach future generations. With fewer than 0.5% of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II still alive, the book serves as a lasting record of their experiences. Move Past Plast
Keystone Trails Association is bringing its annual Keystone Hiking & Outdoor Weekend to the Susquehanna Riverlands Conservation Landscape in Lancaster and York counties this fall, set against the backdrop of peak autumn foliage. Based near Columbia, PA, the four-day event (Thursday–Sunday, October 22–25) offers something for every kind of adventurer, including: - Guided hikes for all skill levels - Road and gravel biking - River paddling - Overnight backpacking and bikepacking - Birding walks and a mushroom ID hike - Nature journaling and yoga - Stewardship projects - Tours highlighting the re
We welcome Marvin D. Bryson, author, screenwriter, former television editor, and caregiver advocate, to discuss his latest novel, August Heat. Set in the early 1980s, August Heat is a compelling coming-of-age story that explores how the game of football shapes the lives, character, and resilience of young men. Rather than focusing on superstar athletes or championship glory, Bryson turns his attention to the millions of players who never make it to the professional level, revealing the personal victories, struggles, and life lessons that emerge far beyond the scoreboard. During our conversatio
In this episode, we talk with Adam F. Buck, President of the World War II American Experience Museum. What began as the Buck family’s private passion for collecting and preserving WWII artifacts evolved into a public mission more than two decades in the making. Today, the museum brings history to life through authentic WWII vehicles, uniforms, artifacts, immersive dioramas, educational seminars, guest speakers, and even hands-on vehicle experiences. Adam shares how the organization works to preserve, educate, and honor the stories of the Greatest Generation while connecting visitors to the exp
What does Pennsylvania's 2026 Integrated Water Quality Report reveal about the health of the Commonwealth's rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands, and why should residents care? On this episode, we take a deep dive into one of the state's most important environmental assessments with Jill Whitcomb, Deputy Secretary for Water Programs, and Dustin Shull from the Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Clean Water. Do esports athletes still play for fun, or does competing turn their favorite games into work? On this episode, we explore the balance between passion and competition with Ce
In this episode, we meet the maker behind the Creative Toolkit, a unique wearable box designed to capture ideas anytime, anywhere. What started in 2022 as a hand-carved pencil made for a pencil-loving girlfriend grew into a small production line of handcrafted pencils and upcycled creative kits. We explore the story behind the first pencil, the sustainable packaging made from reclaimed pizza boxes, the QR-code system that lets users recreate their own boxes, and the mission to inspire creativity on the go. A conversation about craftsmanship, sustainability, and turning a simple idea into a gro
