The Spark

(00:00:00) As Pennsylvania voters prepare for next Tuesday’s elections, local journalists gathered to provide insights on the candidates, races, and issues shaping the ballot. The discussion featured Stephen Caruso of Spotlight PA and Jade Campos, Tom Lisi, and Ashley Stalnecker of LNP/Lancaster Online. (00:22:17) On October 4, 2025, a local Braver Angels debate brought community members together to discuss the resolution: “Immigrants in this country illegally should have a path to legalize their status.” The event offered a unique approach to civil discourse, emphasizing understanding over winning. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) A new centerpiece now graces the Women’s History Garden at the Civic Club of Harrisburg: The Garden Goddess, a living tribute to generations of women who have shaped the community. (00:22:02) Nearly four decades after overcoming her own struggles with addiction, Bucknell University Professor Judy Grisel has dedicated her life to understanding why some people become dependent on drugs — and how the brain plays a role in that process. But as Grisel told The Spark’s Asia Tabb, her journey toward becoming a neuroscientist began for a very personal reason. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) Every second counts when it comes to a stroke, says Lauren Swartz, Nurse Navigator with the UPMC Neurological Institute. Ahead of World Stroke Day, Swartz joined The Spark to remind listeners that knowing the warning signs—and acting fast—can save lives. (00:20:24) as spooky season approaches, historian Chrissy Senecal says that monsters were very real to people living in medieval Europe — though not always in the ways we imagine. “In fact, there were,” she said. “Spooky season is my favorite season, and I am so happy to talk about the way that medieval people thought about monsters and how they were different from maybe what we think of as monsters today.” Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) We learn about Roblox new initiative for parents that will help inform them on how to educate their children to interact safely online. (00:22:13) Adam Zurn shares local ghost stories with us in honor of Halloween week. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) Encountering Disability is a series of free events over three days focused on community health and public policy as well as community inclusion and spirituality. Asia speaks with keynote speakers Marisa Brown and Michael Gamel-McCormick, as well as Rev. David Peck who spearheaded the initiative. (00:22:04) Consumer Affairs recently published a report covering the top metros in the U.S. with the worst housing shortages. These areas were found after researchers at the site calculated metrics like the vacancy ratio for the 200 most populous metro areas in the country. Not one, not two, but three spots in the Keystone State were ranked amongst the top 10: York in second; Harrisburg in fifth; and Lancaster in ninth. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month—a time to celebrate second chances and spread awareness about the thousands of animals waiting for homes. At the York County SPCA, the mission is clear: every pet deserves a loving, permanent home. (00:21:29) A new community resource is taking shape in Harrisburg — and it’s not your typical library. The Harrisburg Tool Library aims to lend out everything from drills and garden shears to crockpots and bubble machines, all in the name of empowerment and community care. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) State College’s NPR station, WPSU, will continue broadcasting after all, following a new partnership agreement with Philadelphia’s WHYY. The plan, unanimously approved by Penn State trustees, allows WPSU-TV and radio to join WHYY without requiring a $17 million subsidy from the university, which was a sticking point in a previously rejected proposal. WHYY now has 30 days to secure at least $8.4 million in funding to complete the transfer, which also requires Federal Communications Commission approval. the recent firing of Penn State Football Coach James Franklin, which has been a major topic in the community. (00:22:06) For many, losing vision can feel like losing opportunities, but for Clinton Tyler and Maribel Surita, Vision Corps in Lancaster has been a place of empowerment, growth, and professional achievement. Both employees credit the nonprofit organization with giving them tools, training, and support to thrive in the workplace despite visual impairments. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) From the grand architecture of Hershey’s iconic buildings to the elegant homes lining Lancaster’s streets, Cassius Emlen Urban’s legacy is etched into the very landscape of Central Pennsylvania. (00:22:15) Pennsylvania hospitals continue to grapple with staffing shortages, affecting not only nurses and doctors but a wide range of hospital roles, from surgical technologists to plumbers and IT specialists. A recent workforce survey by the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) highlights the scope of the challenge. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is celebrating 45 years! Learn about the history of the event and what you can expect when you visit. (00:22:12) The Harrisburg Tool Library is a place where neighbors can access power tools, gardening equipment and so much more, without breaking the bank. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) CeaseFirePA recently hosted a discussion titled “Most Gun Deaths Are Suicide—It’s Time to Act”, drawing attention to a critical but often overlooked aspect of gun violence. (00:22:21) As the temperatures dip and leaves begin to fall, gardeners have plenty to think about beyond raking. Horticulturist Erica Jo Schaefer joined The Spark to share her expertise on preparing gardens for winter and ensuring a vibrant spring. “The bulbs should be being planted right now and you can plant as long as the ground isn’t frozen. You could even be planting bulbs on Thanksgiving Day,” Erica explained. For Pennsylvania gardeners, she recommends snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, and tulips—while noting that deer preferences can influence what you plant. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month—a time to celebrate second chances and spread awareness about the thousands of animals waiting for homes. At the York County SPCA, the mission is clear: every pet deserves a loving, permanent home. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) What began as an informal experiment with a single camera and a borrowed guitar has evolved into one of WITF’s most vibrant projects — WITF Music. also on the program: (00:21:20) A new October poll from Franklin & Marshall College suggests that many Pennsylvanians are feeling uncertain about the direction of the state — and the health of democracy itself. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) After nearly five decades behind the lens, photographer Joseph A. Rosen says it finally felt like the right time to share the stories he’s captured through his camera. His new book, Inside the Moment: Iconic Blues, Soul, Jazz, Rock, and R&B Images and History), celebrates the emotional and historical power of live performance in striking black and white. (00:22:13) Each year, the third week of October marks Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, a reminder that one of the most dangerous — yet entirely preventable — environmental illnesses continues to affect families across Pennsylvania. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) At the University of Pittsburgh, fear has found a new home — in academia. The university is now home to the world’s first academic center dedicated to the study of horror, exploring how the genre reflects society’s deepest anxieties and historical traumas. (00:22:19) Pennsylvania residents could see major jumps in their health insurance premiums next year, according to Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. “The rate increases are pretty significant,” Humphreys said, attributing much of the rise to federal inaction. “Pennsylvanians and insurers in Pennsylvania face serious challenges due to Congress's failure to extend enhanced premium tax credits before open enrollment.” Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) For nearly 40 years, The Pennsylvania Bakery in Camp Hill has been more than a place to buy desserts—it’s been a community cornerstone built on faith, family, and a steadfast commitment to quality. (00:22:13) A new October poll from Franklin & Marshall College suggests that many Pennsylvanians are feeling uncertain about the direction of the state — and the health of democracy itself. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(00:00:00) Alex Monroe’s journey in track and field is one of dedication, growth, and coming full circle. A former Mifflin County athlete and Lock Haven University competitor who ran on the international stage, Monroe is now returning to his roots—not as a runner, but as a coach leading the next generation. (00:22:57) What began as an informal experiment with a single camera and a borrowed guitar has evolved into one of WITF’s most vibrant projects — WITF Music. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 50 STATES OF MURDER: An Atlas of American Crime, true crime master Harold Schechter, reveals lesser known, darkly fascinating cases that, taken together, form a unique criminal history of all 50 states in the US! This week, libraries across the country, including the Cumberland County Library System, are taking part in National Banned Books Week, a celebration of the freedom to read and an effort to raise awareness about attempts to remove books from public shelves. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lancaster’s vibrant theater scene is getting a thought-provoking addition this month as the Lancaster Shakespeare Theatre presents Streamers, a powerful drama set during the height of the Vietnam War. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many in Central Pennsylvania, surf fishing might seem like a distant coastal pastime, but Matt Bryson, a Harrisburg/Hershey resident, has turned the sport into a personal passion and a competitive triumph. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, libraries across the country, including the Cumberland County Library System, are taking part in National Banned Books Week, a celebration of the freedom to read and an effort to raise awareness about attempts to remove books from public shelves. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.