The Spark

In honor of Community Action Month, this conversation with Vanessa Philbert (CAP Lancaster) and Robin Rohrbaugh (Community Progress Council) explores how local agencies support families with young children through programs like Head Start and WIC, and how a two-generation approach can help break cycles of poverty. The episode highlights the challenges facing low-income families in Pennsylvania and...

Join Chris Vera in person as he shares the history and hidden stories of Zion Hill Cemetery and its role in Columbia’s past. Learn why preserving this site still matters today. Also on the program: Dr. Christopher Weber of the Alzheimer’s Association to break down the latest Facts and Figures report, including new insights on brain health, midlife prevention, and the growing impact of Alzheimer’s...

Zachary Adams, Executive Director of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, leads a critical conversation from the first public hearing in a statewide series on data center development. Joined by Indiana County Commissioner Sherene Hess and Tioga County Commissioner Shane Nickerson, the discussion explores how the rapid growth of data centers is shaping rural communities across Pennsylvania. Also, we...

We sit down with David Leidholdt, Artistic Director of Millbrook Playhouse, a renowned summer stock theater rooted in tradition and creativity. David shares insights into the unique world of summer stock, how Millbrook balances classic productions with fresh, contemporary work, and what it takes to lead a dynamic, seasonal company. From behind-the-scenes stories to the challenges of shaping a vibr...

A proposal in Pennsylvania aims to change how police interrogations are handled—by requiring certain custodial interviews to be recorded. Supporters, including the Pennsylvania Innocence Project, say the measure could help prevent false confessions while also protecting law enforcement by creating a clear record of what happens during questioning. Similar policies are already in place in many othe...

We talk with Karen M. Dixon, Transportation and Community Planner at the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, about her research along Interstate 81 in Cumberland and Franklin Counties. Karen explores how transportation infrastructure intersects with environmental conservation, with a focus on wildlife crossings and their role in improving road safety and ecosystem connectivity. We also discus...

Pennsylvania’s newest — and most unique — state park is officially open, and it’s unlike anything else in the system. In this episode, DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn and Laurel Caverns Park Manager Corie Eckman break down what makes Laurel Caverns worthy of becoming the state’s first underground park, from its status as the largest cave in Pennsylvania to its decades-long legacy as a public attra...

First, we sit down with Sue Gleiter , longtime dining reporter for PennLive and The Patriot-News , to talk about how the central Pennsylvania restaurant scene has changed—and where it may be headed next. With more than 25 years covering restaurant openings and closings, food trends, and beloved local institutions, Sue brings deep perspective on what’s thriving, what’s disappeared, and why. Then, w...

 First, we dive into the Tour de Belt , the annual fully supported community bike ride around the Harrisburg Greenbelt, returning Saturday, June 7. Riders experience scenic and often overlooked landmarks such as Wildwood Park, City Island, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Five Senses Garden, the Farm Show Complex, and the former Harrisburg State Hospital. We also talk about the Greenbelt’s...

This episode features Allison Hess (Geisinger), and Tina Citro (WellSpan Health) discussing innovative projects recognized by the 2026 HAP Achievement Awards . The leaders share how their organizations are advancing community health, including Geisinger’s Community Champions Award–winning Social Needs Resource Hub that connects patients to essential services. This Braver Angels update will highlig...

Concerns about “forever chemicals” and microplastics are growing nationwide—and in Cumberland County, one local advocate is working to bring attention to the issue.  Each year on May 1, Law Day offers a chance to reflect on the role of law in American society and why it continues to matter. 

We take a closer look at how Law Day is being observed in Central Pennsylvania and why the annual recognition continues to matter. Marked nationwide on May 1 , Law Day invites reflection on the role of law in American democracy and its impact on daily life. This episode also features investigative reporter Joshua Vaughn of PennLive , joined by Penn State journalism students Vida Lashgari and Joy D...

Lancaster Creative Reuse (LCR) is a creative reuse center in Lancaster that operates a donation‑based art, craft, and sewing supply store . Its mission is to connect community excess materials with people who can use them creatively , reducing waste while making supplies affordable and accessible. Tamela Trussell, founder of Move Past Plastic , discusses growing concerns around PFAS “forever chemi...

Rick Sayles is a master gardener focused on youth education who leads hands‑on, “seed‑to‑table” programming in the Steelton‑Highspire School District. Working directly with K–12 students, he teaches them how to grow, harvest, and prepare healthy food while building life skills, nutrition awareness, and community connection. The conversation highlights how the program began, the impact on student h...

In this bilingual segment, we explore the power and importance of bilingual education with educator and education leader Dr. Andrea Kolb. Andrea moves fluidly between Spanish and English as we talk about why bilingual learning matters for both Spanish‑ and English‑speaking students, how it supports academic success beyond language skills, and the ways it fosters confidence, cultural pride, and bel...

In this episode, we chat with Chrissie Senecal, who’s deeply passionate about the origins of yoga and eager to share its rich history in an engaging talk.  You’ll also hear an open invitation to drop into their free, all-level yoga class on Wednesdays from 5–6 pm at the Kung Fu Center in Carlisle. Whether you’re brand new or have years of experience, you’re welcome—and mats are provided! The Plast...

On this episode of The Spark Weekly , we talk with Sarah Corcoran of the Sierra Club Pennsylvania Chapter about the importance of Earth Day and the impact of local environmental efforts. The conversation highlights how community organizations are working to protect natural resources, promote sustainability, and inspire everyday actions that can lead to long-term environmental change. we also spoke...

Curator Rob Evans and Susquehanna Art Museum’s Director of Exhibitions, Rachel O’Connor, join us to explore American Identity: Restoring the Artistic Legacy of the Susquehanna River . The conversation highlights a groundbreaking exhibition featuring more than 100 artworks and artifacts—some dating back to the Native Susquehannock people—that reveal the Susquehanna River as a powerful artistic muse...

We’re joined by Sarah Corcoran , Deputy Director of the Sierra Club Pennsylvania Chapter , to spotlight the powerful impact of local environmental action. Sarah shares how grassroots organizations across Pennsylvania are protecting natural resources, educating communities, and inspiring meaningful, lasting change—proving that building a healthier planet truly starts close to home. We also explore...

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, this episode features Lily Duarte‑Evans, Vice President of the YWCA Carlisle & Cumberland County, and Mallory Michel, Prevention & Evaluation Coordinator at PCAR. Together, they discuss what sexual violence is, how it impacts individuals and communities, and why awareness and prevention matter. The conversation highlights consent education,...

 Philly Jazz Month is a citywide celebration of Philadelphia’s deep and influential jazz heritage, featuring a full month of live performances, educational programs and community events. From intimate local venues to partner cultural organizations, audiences of all backgrounds are invited to experience the energy of live jazz, participate in interactive workshops and connect with the music’s histo...

On April 18 – World Heritage Day – the Colonial Industrial Quarter (CIQ) comes alive with artisans, demonstrators and faces of the past. Family fun takes center stage as you experience life in the 1700s through hands-on activities and living history demonstrations,  uncovering the crafts and trades that made early Bethlehem the industrial heart of a young nation. MADD’s mission is to end drunk and...

MADD’s mission is to end drunk and drugged driving, support victims of these crimes, and prevent underage drinking and other substance use . A key initiative highlighted is MADD’s Promposal , a free 30–45-minute presentation for high school juniors and seniors that addresses the risks of underage substance use and impaired driving, while empowering students to make safe, memorable prom experiences...

Santino Lauricella, Education Manager at Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve , explores the vital role native wildflowers play in healthy ecosystems. From spring ephemerals and pollinator-supporting plants to invasive species management and endangered plant protection, this episode highlights how the Preserve safeguards biodiversity in Bucks County’s Pidcock Creek Valley. Listeners will also learn w...

Jennifer Eley – Director of Education at Pennon Education and Caley McGuigan - Secondary Education Program Coordinator at Pennon Education tell us all about what Pennon Education has coming up for the spring and summer at WITF's Public Media Center and Schools across the commonwealth. Legal expert Michael R. Dimino , Professor of Law at Widener University Commonwealth Law School, and Fred Vigeant...