Smart Talk

With summer temperatures climbing and heat waves becoming more frequent, energy bills can quickly get out of hand. But there are simple, affordable ways to stay cool without breaking the bank. Dan McCunney, Senior Communications Manager at NRG Energy, joined The Spark to share expert tips on how to lower energy usage while staying comfortable indoors.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harrisburg’s own M. Travis Dinicola had his public radio dreams come true when he was selected as the winner of NPR’s Sunday Puzzle segment on Weekend Edition. A long-time listener, public media volunteer, and nonprofit fundraiser, Dinicola represented Central Pennsylvania on the national airwaves with enthusiasm and humility.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Pennsylvania's June 30 state budget deadline approaches, lawmakers in Harrisburg remain at odds—especially over the controversial issue of whether to tax so-called "skill games." On this week’s Journalist Roundtable, The Spark explored the state budget standoff with Spotlight PA reporters Katie Meyer and Stephen Caruso, who outlined the widening rift among Republicans and what’s at stake.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As summer kicks off, much of the East Coast — including Pennsylvania — has already endured a punishing stretch of extreme temperatures, thanks to what meteorologists are calling a "heat dome." According to ABC 27 Meteorologist Dan Tomaso, the phenomenon is a classic — but intense — example of high-pressure systems trapping heat across large regions.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As vacation season heats up, safety officials are reminding Pennsylvanians to travel smart, buckle up, and never drive impaired — especially with increased traffic expected around the July 4th holiday. In a recent conversation on The Spark, Kelly Whitaker with the Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project (PA TIPP) outlined critical safety tips and state efforts to reduce crashes this summer.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Congress considers what could be the most significant Medicaid cuts in U.S. history, experts are sounding the alarm about the far-reaching consequences—especially for small businesses and rural communities.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association (LSRA) has sounded an alarm for outdoor enthusiasts this summer: several locations along the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg are currently unsafe for recreational activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing due to dangerously high levels of E. coli and other bacteria.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As conversations around mental health and social media continue to intensify, one expert says there’s growing evidence that screen time—especially among teens—is doing real harm. On The Spark, WITF’s Asia Tabb spoke with Dr. Yann Poncin, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, about what research is revealing and how families can respond.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts is celebrating a major milestone — 25 years of engaging the Central Pennsylvania community with its unique blend of science, art, and education. We spoke with President and CEO Mary Oliveira, who reflected on the center’s legacy and shared how it’s planning for the future.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalists have long risked their safety to report the news — but in today's political and digital climate, that danger is only growing. Whether on the frontlines of protests or facing online harassment, reporters are increasingly “in the line of fire” in more ways than one.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For children affected by parental incarceration, the trauma can be deep, isolating, and difficult to express. But in Lancaster, a unique nonprofit is helping those children find their voice — through music. Scaling Walls a Note at a Time (SWAN) was founded in 2011 by violinist and educator Diana Vuolo to serve children impacted by the incarceration of a parent. The organization offers free music instruction, performance opportunities, Bible and trauma management classes, and immediate access to mental health care — all under one roof.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Stella Boheme received the first physical copy of her debut book, Read Like a Queen, she was overcome with emotion. “Oh my gosh… the word that just comes to mind for me is surreal,” she said in an interview on The Spark. “It went from an idea that I had to start writing and every step of the way it just felt like, am I really doing this? And when I finally got the physical advanced copy, it finally hit me that yeah, this is happening.” Coming out this September, Read Like a Queen is a bold reimagining of the traditional tarot guide, wrapped in the sparkle, empowerment, and self-discovery that defines Boheme's unique life as both a seasoned tarot reader and a dynamic drag performer. Also, on the program As Central Pennsylvania faces one of its soggiest seasons on record, gardeners are feeling the effects—and wondering how to keep their plants thriving. On a recent segment of The Spark, WITF’s resident gardening expert Erica Jo returned to share timely tips and tricks for navigating rain-soaked soil, fungal threats, invasive pests, and more.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s edition of Journalist Roundtable, the focus turned to a deeply troubling and emotionally charged case that’s raised pressing questions about youth violence, accountability, and the juvenile justice system in Pennsylvania. A 15-year-old York County teen was recently convicted of third-degree murder in the shooting death of a 12-year-old, a case that has shaken the local community and drawn wide attention. Joining the discussion were Jonathan Bergueller of PennLive and Aimee Ambrose of the York Dispatch, two journalists who have been following the story closely.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What began as a childhood curiosity led to a lifelong career for Season Daugherty, a cheerleader-turned-executive who’s been part of the competitive cheer world for decades. She now works with Varsity Spirit, one of the largest cheerleading organizations in the country. In a recent interview, Daugherty took us behind the scenes of All-Star Cheerleading—a fast-paced, high-stakes sport that’s often misunderstood.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Homer C. Floyd, who led the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) for over 40 years, passed away on June 9 at the age of 89. Widely regarded as the “Dean of Civil Rights in Pennsylvania,” Floyd leaves behind a monumental legacy of civil rights advocacy, policy reform, and unwavering dedication to fighting discrimination.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Central Pennsylvania faces one of its soggiest seasons on record, gardeners are feeling the effects—and wondering how to keep their plants thriving. On a recent segment of The Spark, WITF’s resident gardening expert Erica Jo returned to share timely tips and tricks for navigating rain-soaked soil, fungal threats, invasive pests, and more.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Cumberland County Historical Society (CCHS) is celebrating a transformative gift that will fund a long-vacant museum director position, thanks to the generosity of longtime supporters Pat and Ron Ferris. The newly endowed position ensures that the organization can better care for its vast collection, curate compelling exhibitions, and deepen community engagement.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After weeks of persistent rain, cloudy skies, and cooler-than-normal temperatures, it looks like Central Pennsylvania is finally on the cusp of a dramatic weather shift. Meteorologist Dan Tomaso joined The Spark this week to explain what’s been driving the recent soggy stretch and what we can expect as we head into mid-June.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a world that’s transformed since 2018, artist and designer Davide DeAngelis felt called—by something beyond himself—to return to Starman Tarot, the vibrantly metaphysical deck he originally created in collaboration with the late David Bowie. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Stella Boheme received the first physical copy of her debut book, Read Like a Queen, she was overcome with emotion. “Oh my gosh… the word that just comes to mind for me is surreal,” she said in an interview on The Spark. “It went from an idea that I had to start writing and every step of the way it just felt like, am I really doing this? And when I finally got the physical advanced copy, it finally hit me that yeah, this is happening.” Coming out this September, Read Like a Queen is a bold reimagining of the traditional tarot guide, wrapped in the sparkle, empowerment, and self-discovery that defines Boheme's unique life as both a seasoned tarot reader and a dynamic drag performer.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest episode of The Spark, Rob Franklin—writer, educator, and creative force—joined us to discuss his buzzed-about debut novel, Great Black Hope. The book, which was released June 10, is already drawing critical acclaim for its raw and resonant portrayal of identity, addiction, and Black excellence. “It’s super exciting and gratifying, especially for a first book,” Franklin said of the attention the novel has received. “I think it really just validates the project…to hear that writers I really admire have thought about it carefully and admired parts of it—that’s been one of the greatest gifts of my life.”Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Central Pennsylvania, LGBTQ+ youth are navigating increasingly complex and often dangerous environments at home, in school, and in their communities. Advocates Amber Roadcap, Executive Director of the LGBT Center of Central PA, and Hope Dehnert, a local LGBTQ+ youth advocate and researcher, joined The Spark to speak candidly about the challenges these young people face—and what all of us can do to support them. also, on the program; As concerns about student mental health continue to rise, two Pennsylvania colleges—Bucknell University and Pennsylvania College of Technology—are being recognized for their leadership in suicide prevention and mental health services. Both institutions recently received the PA CARES designation, a recognition from the Pennsylvania Department of Education for campuses that demonstrate a strong commitment to student mental wellness.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year marks the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement, a religious tradition born during the Protestant Reformation that has since spread across the globe.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once a dominant player in the American pharmacy world, Camp Hill-based Rite Aid is now struggling to survive after filing for bankruptcy for the second time. With hundreds of stores slated for closure, the company’s downfall marks a dramatic turn for one of Pennsylvania’s most recognizable corporate names.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Central Pennsylvania, LGBTQ+ youth are navigating increasingly complex and often dangerous environments at home, in school, and in their communities. Advocates Amber Roadcap, Executive Director of the LGBT Center of Central PA, and Hope Dehnert, a local LGBTQ+ youth advocate and researcher, joined The Spark to speak candidly about the challenges these young people face—and what all of us can do to support them.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The City of Harrisburg is gearing up for one of its biggest Juneteenth celebrations yet — and for organizer Dr. Kimeka Campbell, it’s about more than festivities. It’s about honoring history, building community, and reclaiming economic power.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What started as one woman’s personal mission to advocate for animal welfare has blossomed into one of the most anticipated community events in Lancaster. The 9th annual Lancaster VegFest took place this past weekend, drawing thousands of attendees and over 140 vendors to celebrate plant-based living, sustainability, and inclusivity.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As concerns about student mental health continue to rise, two Pennsylvania colleges—Bucknell University and Pennsylvania College of Technology—are being recognized for their leadership in suicide prevention and mental health services. Both institutions recently received the PA CARES designation, a recognition from the Pennsylvania Department of Education for campuses that demonstrate a strong commitment to student mental wellness.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lee Cole’s new novel, Fulfillment, takes readers deep into the warehouses and inner lives of working-class America, telling a story of two half-brothers on diverging paths. The book captures both the physical grind of warehouse labor and the existential weight of trying to find purpose in a chaotic, modern world. Cole joined The Spark to talk about his inspiration, the emotional terrain of his characters, and the layered meaning behind the book’s title.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In downtown Lancaster, a cozy and colorful new business is creating a buzz — not just for its coffee, but for its cuddly residents and inclusive vibe. Co-founded by Jax Lanza and John Bender, two professionals who left careers in teaching and law, the cat café is more than just a trendy hangout. It’s a passion project rooted in community, comfort, and connection.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harrisburg is charting a bold course for revitalizing its downtown core—one that blends short-term wins with a long-term vision rooted in community input, economic development, and local identity.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For nearly seven decades, the Central Pennsylvania Spelling Bee has brought together young students from across the region to compete in one of the area’s most cherished academic traditions. Since about 15 to 17 years ago, public media organization WITF has proudly taken on the role of organizing the bee, continuing the legacy that was originally sponsored by PennLive and the Patriot-News.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. June marks Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the unique challenges men face in seeking mental health support. Dr. Luke Piper, a psychiatrist at UPMC Lititz, joined The Spark Weekly to share both professional insights and a deeply personal story. When Van Wagner talks about trees, it’s more than just classroom chatter — it’s a personal mission. The Danville Area High School agriculture teacher and certified forester recently completed a unique and physically demanding journey: climbing a tree at the highest point in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a time of deep political division, two leaders with vastly different backgrounds—one in marketing, the other in human resources—are helping Pennsylvanians find common ground through Braver Angels, a national nonprofit focused on depolarization.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Pennsylvania approaches its June 30 budget deadline, the state Capitol is bustling with legislative maneuvering, behind-the-scenes negotiations, and intense public advocacy. But according to journalists closely watching the process, it’s still early—and anything could happen.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Long before founding Pennsylvania, William Penn Jr. was just “a guy in England,” according to historian Daniel K. Richter. But his story—and the colony he helped establish—was anything but ordinary.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The spotlight is once again shining bright in Hershey as the 17th season of the Hershey Theatre Apollo Awards kicks off—an annual celebration of high school theater talent from across Central Pennsylvania.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A coalition of Pennsylvania providers is urging lawmakers to include a $13 million funding increase in the upcoming state budget to support residential rehabilitation services for individuals with traumatic brain injuries. If approved, the state investment would unlock an additional $17 million in federal Medicaid matching funds, bringing the total to $30 million.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Van Wagner talks about trees, it’s more than just classroom chatter — it’s a personal mission. The Danville Area High School agriculture teacher and certified forester recently completed a unique and physically demanding journey: climbing a tree at the highest point in each of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Dr. Eric Selvey, President of the Pride Festival of Central Pennsylvania, Pride is personal — and political. After first joining the board in 1993, serving as president for three of those years, and then returning in 2021 after the pandemic hiatus, Selvey has seen the LGBTQ+ movement in Central Pennsylvania evolve into something both resilient and radiant.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tucked away in the wooded hills of Lititz, Pennsylvania, the Wolf Sanctuary of PA offers a permanent home to over 50 gray wolves and wolf dogs—animals too wild for domestic life and too misunderstood for most traditional shelters. Since its founding in 1980 by the Darlington family, the sanctuary has grown into both a rescue haven and a powerful educational resource, helping the public understand the complex nature of these majestic canines.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June marks Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the unique challenges men face in seeking mental health support. Dr. Luke Piper, a psychiatrist at UPMC Lititz, joined The Spark to share both professional insights and a deeply personal story.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than six decades, Long’s Park Amphitheater has echoed with the sounds of live music every summer Sunday night — a tradition that continues in 2025 with a vibrant lineup of 12 free concerts from June 1 through August 17. “The summer music series at Longs Park Amphitheater is a tradition in Lancaster that’s spanned over 63 years,” said Kristin Chronister, president of the Long’s Park Amphitheater Foundation and chair of music. “We host free music concerts every Sunday evening starting at 7:30 p.m.”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. Anne Danahy of WPSU and Wyatt Massey of Spotlight PA will discuss the closure of 7 Penn State campuses, agreed to by the Board of Trustees in a 25 to 8 vote. Also on the program: As the nation observes Memorial Day, many Americans pause to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service. For Patricia Bowers of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, that solemn remembrance is a year-round mission.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On The Spark this week, we explored the fascinating intersection of art, memory, and environmental legacy with two leaders from the Susquehanna Art Museum. Executive Director Alice Anne Schwab and Rachel O’Connor, the museum’s new Director of Exhibitions, joined us in the studio to talk about Future Fossils, their latest exhibition that’s sparking big questions—and imaginations.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Spark’s Journalist Roundtable, we tackle a major shakeup in Pennsylvania higher education: the closure of seven Penn State campuses, a decision formally approved by the university’s Board of Trustees in a 25 to 8 vote. Joining us to unpack the story are Anne Danahy, reporter for WPSU, and Wyatt Massey, education reporter with Spotlight PA. The closures, announced as part of a sweeping cost-cutting and restructuring effort, have stunned students, staff, and communities that have long relied on Penn State’s commonwealth campus system to provide accessible and affordable education across the state.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly half of Americans are now breathing unhealthy air — and much of Pennsylvania is among the hardest-hit, according to the American Lung Association’s newly released 2025 State of the Air report. The annual analysis, now in its 26th year, found significant declines in air quality across the state, with Lancaster, Pittsburgh, and Dauphin counties receiving failing grades for both ozone and fine particle pollution.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever marveled at the massive Greyhounds that crisscrossed the country or wondered what public transit looked like decades ago, the Museum of Bus Transportation in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a destination worth pulling over for. And there’s no better time to visit than during its signature event: Spring Fling, happening this June.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Kaushal Kapadia’s path to opening his own dental practice in York, Pennsylvania, began with a self-conscious middle schooler’s smile and a compassionate orthodontist in a small town in India. Today, as the owner of White Rose Family Dental, he brings a lifetime of experience, empathy, and global perspective to his patients—thanks to a journey filled with determination, hardship, and heart.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Alvernia University launched its engineering program in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was more than an academic initiative — it was a bet on the future of Reading, Pennsylvania. Today, that gamble is paying off with a powerful partnership between the university and local industry, most notably Brentwood Industries. Peter Rye, CEO of Brentwood Industries, brought a global mindset to his leadership — shaped by life in Denmark, Canada, and now Reading — that emphasizes outward-looking innovation.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you walk into the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum in Harrisburg, you’ll find more than old fire trucks and helmets. You’ll step into a story of service, family tradition, and decades of dedication to preserving local history—thanks in large part to one man: Dave Houseal.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.