Smart Talk

Theatergoers in Lancaster are in for a unique experience this October as Creative Works of Lancaster presents the world premiere of Dead Inside, a new play by local playwright Gwen Tulin. Known for its innovative approach to performance, Creative Works specializes in nomadic theater, bringing productions to unconventional spaces around the city.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visitors to Lititz may find themselves twisting their own pretzel while stepping back in time at the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, America’s oldest commercial pretzel bakery. Founded in 1861, the bakery’s origins are said to be a happy accident.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As schools across Pennsylvania welcome students back to classrooms, mental health experts are using Suicide Awareness Month to highlight a growing concern: youth suicide and the importance of supporting students’ social-emotional well-being.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For fans of classic comedy, the Three Stooges have long been a source of laughter, from their slapstick antics to their timeless humor. In Ambler, Pennsylvania, one man has turned that love into a museum experience unlike any other. Gary Lassin, founder and executive director of the Stoogeum, has curated the world’s only museum dedicated entirely to the Three Stooges.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pancreatic cancer is among the deadliest forms of cancer, and Pennsylvania has one of the nation’s highest rates. For families like the Crosbys of Cumberland County, the disease has left a lasting mark — one they hope can spark more awareness, early detection, and support. The beginning of the school year is an exciting time, but many children will fall behind academically, developmentally and socially because of undetected vision issues. That is the concern of the Pennsylvania Optometric Association, POA, and the reason state lawmakers are sponsoring the Children’s Vision Bill. It calls for optometrists and ophthalmologists to perform vision exams at milestone years for students: kindergarten, fourth and eighth grades. The National Parent Teacher Association has reported that more than 10 million children in the U.S. suffer from undetected vision problems that can hamper learning success. Identifying those students who have vision-related deficiencies early on and getting them an effective diagnosis and treatment will make a significant impact on their overall quality of life and future. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, WPSU has been a trusted public radio and television station for central and northern Pennsylvania. But now, the NPR and PBS affiliate based at Penn State University is facing a wind-down plan that would close its doors by June 30, 2026—a decision that has left staff and community members shocked.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As students head back to school this fall, many families are celebrating new beginnings—but for some children, undiagnosed vision problems can create hidden barriers to learning, development, and social growth. That is the concern behind the Pennsylvania Children’s Vision Bill, which calls for mandatory eye exams at key educational milestones. For Laura Koenig of Pennsylvania, the issue hit close to home. Her son, Nathan, struggled with reading from the time he entered kindergarten. Despite interventions and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) implemented in second grade, Nathan continued to lag behind his peers. Teachers and specialists initially attributed his difficulties to a learning disability. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sheepford Road Bridge, a 19th-century engineering landmark connecting York and Cumberland Counties, is set for restoration after years of community advocacy and preservation efforts. Built in 1887 by the Phoenix Bridge Company, the bridge features innovative Phoenix Columns, a wrought-iron construction technique that also supported projects like the New York City subway, Independence Hall, and the Washington Monument.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, Dr. Bruce Levine has been at the forefront of cancer research, pioneering CAR T-cell therapy—a treatment that harnesses a patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. On a recent conversation with Asia Tabb, Levine shared his journey and the promise of this innovative therapy.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every September, National Recovery Month shines a light on the millions of Americans working toward recovery from addiction. For Dr. Ken Martz, PsyD, MBA, a psychologist with three decades in the field, it’s a time to both celebrate progress and confront the barriers that remain.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the past decade, Cable House Presents has been bringing national touring acts to York in intimate settings, creating a space for both artistry and community connection. The volunteer-led series has now reached a major milestone: more than 90 events, nearly 10,000 attendees, and $100,000 paid directly to independent artists.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the past decade, the Harrisburg Mansion Concert Series has been offering something different from the usual large concert venues — intimate performances where audiences sit just feet away from world-class musicians.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Alexander Cabot, spirituality has always been about evolution. His upcoming memoir, set to be published this October, reflects on a lifetime of exploring pagan traditions, psychic practices, and the spiritual lessons he’s gathered along the way.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pancreatic cancer is among the deadliest forms of cancer, and Pennsylvania has one of the nation’s highest rates. For families like the Crosbys of Cumberland County, the disease has left a lasting mark — one they hope can spark more awareness, early detection, and support.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania has no shortage of literary talent, and one of its most celebrated young adult authors is back with a new novel. A.S. King, who grew up “in the middle of a cornfield in Berks County,” has just released Pick the Lock, a story about family secrets, teenage rebellion, and the power of music.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prostate cancer is one of the most urgent health issues facing men in Pennsylvania, according to cancer advocates and survivors who are working to remove barriers to early detection.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marilyn, 79, who lives in Camp Hill, is a 25-year survivor of early-stage breast cancer. Since 2011, Marilyn has logged more than 20,000 miles walking and has raised more than $115,000. Marilyn's mission is to save lives by building awareness of early detection of breast cancer AND raising money to fund research and treatments. She wants to rid the world of breast cancer ... for her daughter, granddaughters, loved ones and people around the world. Also on the program... Historic Gettysburg Adams County is embarking on an effort to preserve historic barns throughout the county. reservation techniques through publications, workshops, lectures, tours and demonstrations. For example, the Adams County Barn Registry to gather information that will help everyone gain a better understanding of the local barns. The goal is to assist in the preservation of the historic barns of Adams County by encouraging an interest in and an understanding of their im- portance to the rural heritage of our community.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal Roadless Rule, first enacted in 2001, remains at the center of a national debate over conservation and land use — and Pennsylvania’s only national forest is directly impacted. The rule restricts road construction and timber harvesting in designated “roadless” areas of national forests. It has faced legal and political challenges over the past two decades but has largely stood firm.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ed Mahon reported on a recent public meeting of a statewide panel responsible for determining how Pennsylvania will use millions of dollars from settlements with opioid makers and distributors. The funds are intended to help address the ongoing opioid crisis, but questions remain about how to balance immediate needs with long-term strategies for prevention, treatment, and recovery. Meanwhile, Danielle Ohl reported on a cyber-attack that disrupted operations at the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office. Details of the breach are still being investigated, but officials said the attack raised concerns about the security of sensitive information and the resilience of the state’s digital infrastructure.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outdoor enthusiasts in south-central Pennsylvania have a new reason to explore the Bedford and Fulton County region, thanks to the opening of the Sideling Hill Trailhead at the Sideling Hills Service Plaza along the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The new trailhead provides access to local hiking and biking trails, along with convenient amenities for visitors.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Marilyn B. Fuller-Smith was diagnosed with stage zero breast cancer, her doctor’s insistence on a same-day mammogram saved her life. “From that moment until today, everything about my breast cancer journey has been a blessing, just an absolute blessing,” Fuller-Smith said. “I am the model of finding breast cancer early. Detection is the most important part. Find it early, don’t go without those mammograms.” Her diagnosis not only changed her life but also connected her to fellow survivors Jayne Blake and Donna Slusser. Together, the women have walked thousands of miles in breast cancer awareness events and built a sisterhood rooted in resilience, joy, and advocacy.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Pennsylvania moves into September, cooler weather may be on the horizon—but gardeners are facing an ongoing dry spell that’s putting stress on trees, flowers, and vegetable beds. Horticulturist Erica Jo joined The Spark to share advice on how to keep plants healthy during drought-like conditions. Her first piece of guidance: don’t forget about your trees.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Central Pennsylvania is once again gathering for a day of food, fun, and giving back as the Alex W. Smith Foundation hosts its 6th annual “Chili Cook-Off for a Cause.” The event honors the life and legacy of Alex Smith, a 22-year-old chef apprentice whose passion for food and people continues to inspire.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pennsylvania is grappling with a workforce shortage in aging services, raising concerns about access to care for older adults across the state.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adams County’s barns are more than farm buildings — they’re living pieces of history. For the past two decades, the Historic Gettysburg Adams County (HGAC) Barn Preservation Project has been working to keep them standing.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With National Voter Registration Day being observed next week, Pennsylvania Secretary of State Al Schmidt is reminding residents how simple it is to get registered — and why it matters in every election, not just presidential years.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a stretch of cooler weather earlier this month, Central Pennsylvania is back to feeling more like summer. ABC27 meteorologist Dan Tommaso says the warmth will continue into late September — but the bigger story is the lack of rainfall.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What began as one high school band director’s dream in 1975 has grown into a program that has sent thousands of young musicians across Europe. American Music Abroad (AMA), based in New Hope, Pennsylvania, is celebrating nearly five decades of blending music, travel, and cultural exchange.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than two months past Pennsylvania’s budget deadline, school districts across the state are grappling with uncertainty, borrowing costs, and the possibility of program cuts as they wait for billions in state funding. Also, on The Spark Weekly: At the heart of WITF’s mission to provide trusted news, cultural programming, and educational content lies a dedicated team working behind the scenes: the development department. Leading the charge is Elisa Balestra, Vice President of Philanthropy, who joined the station 11 months ago and has quickly immersed herself in connecting the community to the station’s mission.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association may be best known for its long lines at the Farm Show milkshake stand, but Executive Director Dave Smith says the nonprofit’s mission goes far beyond a sweet treat.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prosecutors allege Heller ran a multimillion-dollar ATM investment scheme that defrauded investors out of millions. “It’s a really complex case,” Umble explained, “but at its core, investors thought they were buying into profitable ATMs that didn’t exist.” According to Umble’s reporting, Heller allegedly diverted funds for personal use and to prop up his businesses. Federal investigators say the fraud reached into the hundreds of millions of dollars. Umble emphasized the local impact, noting that many Lancaster County residents and businesses were among those who lost money. “This isn’t just a headline-grabbing national case—it has real consequences here at home,” he said. The case is ongoing as federal prosecutors pursue charges.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to protect your family when the world itself is falling apart? That question is at the heart of Megha Majumdar’s new novel, A Guardian and a Thief.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The soothing aroma of freshly brewed tea will once again fill downtown Mechanicsburg as the 8th annual Pennsylvania Tea Festival returns September 19th and 20th. Held in the lush herb gardens of The Rosemary House and Sweet Remembrances Tea Room, the event promises two days steeped in flavor, culture, and community.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As downtown Harrisburg continues to evolve, local planning experts see both challenges and opportunities in shaping the city’s future. Vern McKissick, a 30-year member of the Harrisburg Planning Commission who helped develop the city’s first Comprehensive Development Plan since the 1970s, reflects on how the energy around downtown projects has shifted over the decades.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the heart of WITF’s mission to provide trusted news, cultural programming, and educational content lies a dedicated team working behind the scenes: the development department. Leading the charge is Elisa Balestra, Vice President of Philanthropy, who joined the station 11 months ago and has quickly immersed herself in connecting the community to the station’s mission.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A collaborative study by the Clinic for Special Children in Lancaster and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has identified an ultra-rare genetic disorder called complement factor I (CFI) deficiency, which is significantly more prevalent in individuals of Old Order Amish ancestry.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the dancers of A Taste of Ireland—The Irish Music & Dance Sensation take the stage in Central Pennsylvania this October, they’ll be bringing with them not only high-energy choreography but also centuries of cultural history.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than two months past Pennsylvania’s budget deadline, school districts across the state are grappling with uncertainty, borrowing costs, and the possibility of program cuts as they wait for billions in state funding.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Education in Ancient Rome was far from the structured classrooms we think of today. Historian Chrissy Senecal joined The Spark to explain how the system evolved over centuries—and how issues of class, gender, and respect for teachers shaped who actually got to learn.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on this week's edition of The Spark Weekly. The Braver Angels National organization launched a two-year initiative around the topic of immigration - The Citizens Commission on Immigration. The goal is to demonstrate to our US Congress that Americans with differing views can find common ground. The initiative was launched after our 2024 convention and the result of a vote by a balanced red-blue group of about 750 delegates. It will culminate with a "Report to the Nation." The process is similar to the previous two-year initiative on Trustworthy Elections. Also on the program... The idea of a “traditional” college student — 18 to 24 years old, living on campus, and attending classes full-time — may no longer match reality. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WITF Democracy Reporter Jordan Wilkie discussed his report on Pennsylvania activist Heather Honey, who is moving from leading election conspiracy groups to a top elections policy role at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Elections experts have raised concerns that Honey’s appointment could undermine federal election support and public confidence. “The appointment of Heather Honey is just confirmation that DHS has gone from being one of the most credible supporters of American election integrity to potentially a purveyor of disinformation,” said David Becker, head of the Center for Election Innovation & Research. Next, WITF Capitol Reporter Jaxon White weighed in on Pennsylvania’s upcoming Supreme Court retention elections. Three Democratic justices—Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, and David Wecht—face voters this November. Supporters, including legal expert Shanin Specter, argue the justices rule impartially and deserve to keep their seats, while Republican groups are campaigning against them citing key decisions on abortion, mail-in voting, and redistricting. Finally, PennLive reporters Jenna Wise and Jonathan Bergmueller discussed a Labor Day weekend incident at Harrisburg’s Kipona festival, where a car ran into a crowd, injuring three people, including a 6-year-old child.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Immigration has long been one of the most divisive issues in American politics. Now, Braver Angels, a national nonprofit dedicated to reducing political polarization, is taking on the challenge with its new two-year initiative: the Citizens Commission on Immigration.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stuart Malina is entering his 26th season as music director of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra (HSO), a milestone he admits still surprises him.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse in downtown Lancaster, community members gather once a month to watch films, sip cocktails, and dive into deep conversations. The series, Philosophy | Drinks | Film—known as PDF—is curated by Dennis M. Weiss, who started the program in 2019.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we think of the American Revolution, names like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin often come to mind. But one of its most influential figures came from halfway across the world — a Polish-born engineer and soldier named Thaddeus Kosciuszko.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea of a “traditional” college student — 18 to 24 years old, living on campus, and attending classes full-time — may no longer match reality. That’s what Alvernia University Provost Leamor Kahanov, Ph.D., explained in a recent conversation on The Spark.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Washington Crossing Historic Park, located along the Delaware River, stands as a pivotal site in American history. It was here that George Washington famously crossed the Delaware on Christmas night in 1776, a daring maneuver that helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New Cumberland Music and Film Festival is returning this year, celebrating the best of local talent alongside globally recognized films and performances. Skye Cadzow, producer of the festival, describes it as “a celebration of all things culture and arts, bringing both local talents and global pieces that are being celebrated around the world to the stage right here in central Pennsylvania.” The festival began in 2022, with its first event taking place in September 2023. “A few of us in the nonprofit, the New Cumberland Collective, started talking about how we wanted to bring some of these elements that we love in pop culture together, start creating a film festival,” Cadzow said. “Last year we ran it back and added even more components… this year we're really thrilled to take things in a slightly new direction.” This year’s theme centers on “small groups that can make a difference,” featuring documentaries like Middletown, which follows teenagers uncovering a toxic waste scandal in New York, and Speak, which highlights five students competing in national oratory contests. Cadzow said, “The teacher who was part of this project [in Middletown] is actually gonna be at the film to do a Q&A on Friday night following this screening. So, we're thrilled to have that.” The festival will also showcase its first non-documentary film, OBEX, a Sundance favorite, with director Albert Burney and other filmmakers participating in a post-screening Q&A.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The only English- and Spanish-bilingual public radio station in Lancaster and York counties is expected to cut programming next year in the wake of Congress’ vote last month to rescind public broadcasting funds. Also on the program: August 23rd marked the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina; we look into what happened and how meteorology has advanced over the last 2 decades. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the season opener against Frostburg State just around the corner, Millersville University’s football team is ready to hit the field. Head Coach J.C. Morgan says the preparation has been months in the making.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gettysburg National Military Park, one of America’s most historic sites, is feeling the effects of widespread staffing and budget reductions across the National Park Service, according to reporter Najib Aminy. The cuts, driven by executive actions under the Trump administration, have already resulted in the loss of a quarter of the agency’s staff.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.