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PODCAST

The Spark

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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All Episodes

22:54

From Jelly Jars to a Thriving Village: Kitchen Kettle...

The Spark ·

2025/08/04

Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse, Pennsylvania, may be known today for its bustling shops, restaurants, and homemade jams, but it all started in a garage with a single kettle of jelly. Now celebrating its 71st anniversary, the family-run destination has become a beloved Lancaster County landmark, drawing locals and tourists alike. Michelle Rodinelli, the third-generation owner of Kitchen Kettle, says it all began in August 1954 when her grandparents, Bob and Pat Burnley, took a leap of faith

en-US

43:19

The Spark Weekly 8.03.2025: The Transcontinental...

The Spark ·

2025/08/03

On this week's edition of The Spark Weekly AmeriStarRail proposes to team with Amtrak to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in 2026 with a new, privately funded, coast-to-coast train operating between Los Angeles and New York (see attached letter) The Transcontinental Chiefwill revolutionize rail passenger service and express logistics by carrying passengers, truck drivers and their tractor trailers coast-to-coast in less than 72 hours Also, on the program With federal funding now eliminated

en-US

27:21

Braver Angels: Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide...

The Spark ·

2025/08/02

As the political gap between urban and rural communities continues to widen, organizations like Braver Angels are working to bring Americans together across that divide. In a recent conversation, Ron Chadwell of Camp Hill, the group’s Blue Co-Chair, joined Tom Cook of Quarryville, a more conservative-leaning member, to explore how respectful dialogue can lead to greater understanding between people who often feel worlds apart. The discussion touched on what drives the urban-rural

en-US

23:23

Journalist Roundtable: Public Media Reports on...

The Spark ·

2025/08/01

With federal funding for public broadcasting officially eliminated, reporters at public media stations now face the unusual challenge of covering a story that hits close to home—their own financial future. On this week’s segment, we spoke with Sydney Roach from WPSU and Carmen Russell-Sluchansky from WHYY about how their newsrooms are navigating the tricky balance of objectivity and personal stake. “Public media doesn’t often become the subject,” said Roach. “So

en-US

23:11

Homelessness on the Rise in York County, Reflecting...

The Spark ·

2025/08/01

Each January, during some of the coldest days of the year, communities across the country participate in a federally mandated effort to measure homelessness. The Point-in-Time (PIT) count provides a snapshot of those experiencing homelessness in a single 24-hour period. And this year, York County's results were sobering. York County saw a 17% increase in the number of people without shelter compared to last year. “It wasn’t a surprise, but it was certainly disappointing,” said

en-US

22:37

Liberty Medal to Honor Hamilton Musical and Historian...

The Spark ·

2025/07/31

The 37th annual Liberty Medal ceremony is set to shine a spotlight on the transformative power of storytelling and civic engagement this October. The National Constitution Center will honor the cast of Hamilton and acclaimed biographer Ron Chernow, whose work inspired the hit Broadway musical, during a live event in Philadelphia on October 17. “The purpose of the Liberty Medal is to recognize men and women of courage and conviction who have defended the blessings of liberty across the

en-US

22:50

Elementary Principal Zac Bauermaster Leads with...

The Spark ·

2025/07/31

Zac Bauermaster didn’t always picture himself as an elementary school principal. In fact, he thought he’d be a high school social studies teacher and basketball coach for life. But his journey through education took unexpected turns—and ultimately led him to a role he now embraces with deep passion and purpose. “I had great teachers and coaches growing up, and I always loved school,” Bauermaster said. “But what I found, no matter the level—high school,

en-US

22:11

Healing with Vision Therapy and Chickens

The Spark ·

2025/07/30

When Christine Helm was hit head-on in a car accident with her daughter, she never expected it would change the course of her life. “We had minor, so-called minor injuries,” she recalled. “I had a shoulder injury, a minor neck injury, and a concussion... but mine didn't [get better]. It just hung on and hung on.” Christine, a former teacher, found herself unable to return to work. Plagued by persistent concussion symptoms and double vision, she visited specialist after

en-US

12:18

A Quilter’s Destination Quilt Show Builds Community,...

The Spark ·

2025/07/30

What started in 2011 as a way to make quilting more accessible has grown into a popular series of free, community-driven events across the Northeast. A Quilter’s Destination Quilt Show is now a magnet for experienced quilters, curious newcomers, and international visitors alike — and it’s not showing any signs of slowing down.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

11:46

Central PA Sees a Weather Shift After a Steamy July,...

The Spark ·

2025/07/30

After weeks of high humidity and relentless heat, central Pennsylvania is finally getting a break. Meteorologist Dan Tomaso says a shift in air flow from northern and central Canada is bringing much-needed relief.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

25:05

AmeriStarRail Unveils Plan for Cross-Country Train...

The Spark ·

2025/07/29

In time for America’s 250th birthday celebration in 2026, AmeriStarRail is proposing a bold new vision to revolutionize cross-country transportation: the Transcontinental Chief, a privately funded, coast-to-coast train designed to carry passengers, personal vehicles, and even full tractor-trailers—all in under 72 hours.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

23:54

Honoring Disability Pride Month: Local Advocates...

The Spark ·

2025/07/29

July marks Disability Pride Month, a time to celebrate the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and reflect on the ongoing journey toward accessibility, dignity, and equity for people with disabilities. In recognition of the month, The Spark spoke with two Pennsylvania advocates whose personal stories highlight both the challenges and triumphs within the disability community — and who remind us why awareness and advocacy still matter every day.Support WITF:

en-US

25:20

Bringing History to Life: The Work Behind...

The Spark ·

2025/07/28

As tens of thousands of visitor's flock to Gettysburg each year to witness dramatic Civil War reenactments, what they see on the battlefield is just the tip of the iceberg. The team behind these large-scale events—including reenactors Chris and Doug Jones—is already deep in planning mode for 2026.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

42:58

The Spark Weekly 7.25.2025: Cost of Raising Children...

The Spark ·

2025/07/27

As the cost of living continues to rise across the U.S., parents in Pennsylvania are feeling the squeeze — especially when it comes to raising young children. In a recent interview onThe Spark, Laura Beltrán Figueroa, Director of Policy and Research at thePennsylvania Policy Center, shared how childcare expenses are forcing many working families into impossible financial choices. also, on the program. The State Museum of Pennsylvania is going through a remodeling overhaulstarting Spring

en-US

22:31

Franklin County Honors America’s 250th with Living...

The Spark ·

2025/07/26

As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, is taking a dynamic and deeply local approach to honoring the milestone through the statewide initiative, America 250PA. With a strong focus on community, heritage, and education, the Franklin County Visitors Bureau is leading the charge to ensure their corner of Pennsylvania—and the nation’s history—is not overlooked.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for

en-US

22:22

Big Changes Ahead for the State Museum of Pennsylvania

The Spark ·

2025/07/25

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) has announced a $55 million, multi-year revitalization of the State Museum of Pennsylvania — the largest investment in the museum’s history since it opened in 1964. The sweeping renovation project is set to begin in spring of 2026 and will include major infrastructure upgrades, accessibility improvements, new exhibit spaces, and even a rooftop event terrace with views of the Susquehanna River and State Capitol. Executive Director

en-US

17:38

WITF Faces Uncertain Future as Congress Cuts Federal...

The Spark ·

2025/07/25

In a sweeping decision with far-reaching consequences, Congress has officially cut federal funding for public media with the passage of the Rescissions Act of 2025. The legislation not only halts future appropriations—it also pulls back already-promised funds, leaving public media outlets like WITF reeling and planning for an uncertain future.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

23:39

Child Care Costs in Pennsylvania Remain Unaffordable...

The Spark ·

2025/07/24

As the cost of living continues to rise across the U.S., parents in Pennsylvania are feeling the squeeze — especially when it comes to raising young children. In a recent interview on The Spark, Laura Beltrán Figueroa, Director of Policy and Research at the Pennsylvania Policy Center, shared how child care expenses are forcing many working families into impossible financial choices.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy

en-US

25:18

Living History Comes Alive at Fort Ligonier: A...

The Spark ·

2025/07/23

At Fort Ligonier in Westmoreland County, history is more than something to read about — it’s something to experience. The reconstructed 18th-century fort, which played a pivotal role in the French and Indian War, offers visitors a full immersion into colonial life, complete with authentic artifacts, historical interpreters, and a sprawling museum collection.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

13:18

Fashion and History Come to Life at Shippensburg...

The Spark ·

2025/07/23

At the Fashion Archives & Museum at Shippensburg University, fashion isn’t just about style—it’s a portal to the past. Dr. Karin J. Bohleke, director of the museum, calls it her “dream job,” and she’s using it to bring centuries of history to life through original clothing and textiles.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

en-US

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