The Spark

We’re joined by Dr. Robert Reynolds, Associate Professor of History at Kutztown University, to explore the fascinating history of one-room schoolhouses in Pennsylvania and across the United States. Dr. Reynolds sheds light on how these small, rural schools operated, the unique challenges and opportunities they presented for both students and teachers, and their lasting impact on American education. Drawing from historical research and recent scholarship, we’ll uncover what daily life was like inside a one-room schoolhouse and why these institutions remain an important part of our educational heritage. We’re also joined by Cathy Horner, former board member and author of Three Women, a War, and a Tradition, to uncover the powerful story behind the origins of Memorial Day in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania. Known as the birthplace of the holiday, Boalsburg’s history is rooted in a heartfelt act of remembrance during the Civil War, when three local women were inspired to honor fallen soldiers by decorating their graves.

From longer growing seasons to stronger storms and increasing pest pressure, climate change is reshaping the way plants grow and how gardeners and growers respond. We also spotlight photojournalist Ann Hermes and her powerful visual project documenting the slow disappearance of local newsrooms. Drawing on her years of experience covering major global events, Hermes turns her lens closer to home—capturing the quiet, often overlooked spaces where local journalism once thrived. Her photographs preserve the people, routines, and environments that are fading as community news outlets shut down.

Frank Stroik, Board President of Preservation Mifflinburg, shares the remarkable rescue story of the Gutelius House Museum. When the historic 1803 log home faced demolition in a 1997 auction, a small group of community members came together in an unforgettable moment of urgency and purpose. With help from nearby neighbors and a local Justice of the Peace—honoring Frederick Gutelius himself, Union County’s first Justice—they secured the property and sparked a preservation movement. Conrad Fisher shares the story behind Ragamuffin Hall—its deep roots, remarkable transformation, and growing cultural impact. Once the historic McCoysville Presbyterian Church, founded in 1777 by circuit preacher William Logan, the building has witnessed centuries of change, from open-air sermons to its 19th-century brick structure completed in 1871. After serving its congregation for over 150 years, the church closed its doors in November 2022—only to begin a new chapter the very next day when Conrad took ownership and reimagined the space as Ragamuffin Hall.

WITF's Jordan Wilkie speaks with Berwood Yost, who leads public opinion research at Franklin and Marshall College, and with Stephen Medvic, professor of government also at Franklin and Marshall. They talk about lessons learned from the primary and what to expect in the general election this fall, with a special focus on Pennsylvania's 10th Congressional District in Cumberland, Dauphin and York counties. We also spotlight photojournalist Ann Hermes and her powerful visual project documenting the slow disappearance of local newsrooms. Drawing on her years of experience covering major global events, Hermes turns her lens closer to home—capturing the quiet, often overlooked spaces where local journalism once thrived. Her photographs preserve the people, routines, and environments that are fading as community news outlets shut down.

Jeremiah Miller, Executive Artistic Director of Lancaster Shakespeare Theatre, returns to discuss the company’s upcoming production of Henry IV, Part 1, opening on the 22nd. Following last fall’s Vietnam-era drama Streamers, the theatre shifts back to Shakespeare with an exciting and unconventional take. Featuring direction by Shakespeare scholar Dr. Justin Hopkins and starring acclaimed local actress Elizabeth Pattey as Falstaff—a role traditionally played by men—this bold casting choice brings fresh perspective to one of Shakespeare’s most iconic characters. This conversation explores the creative vision behind the production and what audiences can expect from this innovative staging. Sydney Ernst, Museum Director at the Cumberland County Historical Society, shares details about the upcoming exhibition Freedom to Be: LGBTQ+ Journeys in the American Story. Opening May 1, 2026, at the History On High Museum in Carlisle, the exhibit highlights LGBTQ+ experiences within the broader American narrative. On view through June 20, these timely and impactful installation invites visitors to explore stories of identity, resilience, and history.

This episode highlights Tim Alexander, founder of Mansion Concerts Inc., and introduces The Harrisbird Café – A 2026 Songwriter Showcase, a Nashville Bluebird Café–inspired event spotlighting talented regional artists. Featured performers include: Corinna JoyKevin NeidigWe also explore how climate change is reshaping horticulture, from shifting growing seasons to increasing environmental stress on crops. As temperatures rise, plants are flowering earlier, cool-season crops are struggling, and extreme weather events—like droughts, heavy rainfall, and late frosts—are becoming more common. We dive into the real-world impacts on plant health and soil, including erosion, water stress, and higher plant mortality, while also examining how warmer winters are allowing pests and diseases to thrive and spread.

As spring and summer travel seasons ramp up, so does credit card use—and the risk of fraud. In this episode, we’re joined by Bijal Gami, Vice President of Card Portfolio and Operations at Members 1st Federal Credit Union, to share smart, simple ways consumers can protect their money while traveling. We cover common scams like fake booking sites, phishing emails, and card skimming, along with how built-in tools like transaction alerts, card controls, and fraud monitoring can help catch suspicious activity early. also, on the program; In a time of rising loneliness and emotional burnout, Grandma Stand offers a powerful reminder of the healing power of simply being heard. In this episode, we explore the new documentary by filmmaker Susan Polis Schutz, which follows real-life conversations between strangers and volunteer “grandmas” in public spaces across New York City. Through candid, unscripted exchanges on everything from anxiety and grief to aging and uncertainty, the film reveals how deep listening can bring calm, connection, and emotional release. We also discuss how this grassroots movement—founded by Mike Matthews—has grown nationwide, creating free, accessible spaces for mental wellness and human connection.

A new report from the Alzheimer’s Association is highlighting both the growing impact of Alzheimer’s disease and increasing public interest in brain health. A new report is offering a closer look at preschool education across the country and where states stand when it comes to early learning access and quality.

We sit down with Vashti DuBois, Founder and Executive Director of The Colored Girls Museum (TCGM) in Philadelphia—a groundbreaking, place-based “living museum” dedicated to honoring the “ordinary extraordinary” lives of Black women and girls. Shimera Dennis shares the inspiring story behind D&D Journey – Children with Disabilities Matter, a Harrisburg-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children on the autism spectrum and their caregivers. Motivated by her own experience raising two children with autism, Shimera created the organization to fill critical gaps in local resources and advocacy. In honor of Autism Awareness Month, she opens up about her journey, the challenges families face, and the impact of building a supportive community for those navigating autism.

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 the community-wide solutions driving long-term economic stability. A deep dive into the 2025 NIEER State of Preschool Yearbook with lead author Allison Friedman-Krauss and Director Steve Barnett, exploring national trends and what they reveal about the quality, access, and funding of early childhood education—plus a closer look at where Pennsylvania stands. This conversation offers listeners a clear, data-driven snapshot of how states are supporting (or falling short in supporting) young learners.

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 disease. Learn what the latest data reveals and what individuals can do now to protect their cognitive health.

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 highlight Farm Sanctuary’s 40th anniversary and the evolution of the global farm animal protection movement. Featuring insights connected to Sanctuary Day and the organization’s founding vision, the conversation reflects on how one rescue in 1986 grew into an international network of sanctuaries transforming public awareness.

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 vibrant theatrical experience, this conversation offers a compelling look at the passion and artistry that keep live theater thriving. up next is a conversation with leaders and a rising star from the PSFCA Big 33 Football Classic. Executive Director Garry Cathell and COO Nicole Whitmire share the impact, history, and community spirit behind one of the nation’s premier high school all-star games, while Trinity High School standout Marcus Yeager—headed to the University of Richmond—gives a player’s perspective on earning a spot on Team PA. We also highlight the exciting lineup of Memorial Day Weekend events, from girl's flag football and the Fan Fest to the iconic Big 33 game, all celebrating talent, service, and opportunity.

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 other states. up next is a conversation with leaders and a rising star from the PSFCA Big 33 Football Classic. Executive Director Garry Cathell and COO Nicole Whitmire share the impact, history, and community spirit behind one of the nation’s premier high school all-star games, while Trinity High School standout Marcus Yeager—headed to the University of Richmond—gives a player’s perspective on earning a spot on Team PA. We also highlight the exciting lineup of Memorial Day Weekend events, from girl's flag football and the Fan Fest to the iconic Big 33 game, all celebrating talent, service, and opportunity.

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 discuss Pennsylvania’s growing momentum around wildlife corridor planning, including a new statewide working group developing a comprehensive blueprint to protect habitats while supporting resilient transportation systems. we’re also joined by Elena Cuffari, a cognitive science researcher and feminist philosopher at Franklin & Marshall College, to unpack the complex relationship between exercise, body image, and gender. Drawing on her work in embodiment and lived experience, Elena explores how agency, personal style, and pleasure shape the way we move and care for our bodies. Together, we examine the cultural pressures surrounding “bikini body” narratives, the impact of evolving beauty standards, and how fitness can be reframed as a source of empowerment rather than expectation.

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 attraction With Skilled Trades Day May 6th, this episode brings together two perspectives shaping Pennsylvania’s workforce future. Secretary of Policy and Planning Akbar Hossain outlines the statewide strategy to expand access to skilled trades and strengthen the economy, while Tec Centro Workforce Network CEO Carlos Graupera shares what that work looks like on the ground in communities.

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, we take a close look at a critical criminal justice reform effort in Pennsylvania: a pending bill supported by the Pennsylvania Innocence Project that would require law enforcement to electronically record custodial interrogations for certain serious crimes. While many states already mandate recorded interrogations, Pennsylvania does not—despite strong evidence that recordings reduce false confessions, strengthen the integrity of investigations, and protect officers from unfounded claims about what occurred behind closed doors.

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 spurs to Fort Hunter Park and Elmerton Avenue, newer mountain bike trail connections maintained by SAMBA, and the current challenges facing the trail—temporary closures, unofficial detours, and the broader conversation about keeping the Greenbelt open amid ongoing development. In the second half, we switch gears to spotlight the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society, a fan-powered nonprofit that has raised over $100,000 for charities since 2009. Run entirely by volunteers, PSWCS works with Lucasfilm to release approved Star Wars collectibles and uses fandom as a force for good—supporting charitable causes across Pennsylvania while proving that community, whether on bikes or in galaxies far, far away, can make a real impact.

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 highlight what’s new and upcoming in Pennsylvania, including the launch of a new virtual alliance for individuals without access to an in-person alliance and the upcoming rollout of a Heritage Alliance. It will also preview the 2026 National Convention, taking place in Philadelphia June 25–28, themed “1776 to 2026: A Pledge Renewed.”

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.