The Spark

Last weekend saw the largest wave of nationwide demonstrations since the start of the Trump Administration, as protesters rallied under the banner of “Hands Off” to push back against a range of federal policy changes. The protests, which spanned cities across the United States, focused on opposition to the administration’s stances on the economy, immigration, foreign relations, and sweeping efforts to cut federal jobs and programs. To understand the scope of the protests and their local impact, we spoke with three reporters who were on the ground: Jaxson White of LNP | LancasterOnline, Scott Fisher of the York Daily Record, and Anne Danahy of WPSU. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As spring kicks into gear, many homeowners are turning their attention to lawn care. But on a recent episode of The Spark, horticulturist Erica Jo Schaeffer encouraged listeners to look beyond traditional approaches—and question what a “perfect lawn” really means. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park is one of Pennsylvania’s unique attractions. It’s the country’s only all-water cavern and farm-nature-wildlife attraction. Recently, Mark Watson, Executive General Director, and Jeanine Watson, Executive Business Director, joined Asia Tabb on The Spark to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to manage the cavern and wildlife. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re looking for a new favorite watering hole—or twenty—look no further than the Lebanon Valley Libations Trail. Spearheaded by Visit Lebanon Valley, the official Destination Marketing Organization of Lebanon County, this digital trail features 20 breweries, taprooms, and restaurants that proudly pour locally crafted beer. The initiative is more than a toast to tasty brews—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the small businesses that define the heart of the region. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gettysburg Film Festival is returning for its third year, running May 8–11, 2025, and bringing with it an extraordinary lineup of films, speakers, and historical insights. On The Spark, host Asia Tabb spoke with festival producer Andrew Dalton, director Jake Boritt, and Brett Messenger of the Majestic Theater about what attendees can expect at this year’s event. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the United States Army prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2025, the Army Heritage Center Foundation is leading the charge in preserving and sharing the stories that have shaped the Army—and, by extension, the nation—for two and a half centuries. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As school districts across Pennsylvania continue to grapple with teacher shortages—especially in special education—researchers and educators alike are digging into the data to understand the full scope of the problem and what’s driving it. Dr. Edward Fuller, Associate Professor at Penn State and an expert in education policy, has been examining teacher vacancy trends across the state. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saving money is one of the most important habits a young person can develop—but for students and families alike, navigating the many savings options can be overwhelming. From traditional savings accounts to 529 college plans, understanding which tools to use and when can make all the difference in building a solid financial future. To help make sense of it all, The Spark recently sat down with Sharon Eiswert, Director of Marketing and Deposit Strategy at PSECU, and Lee Fortenberry, an adjunct instructor in the personal financial planning program at Shippensburg University, for a conversation packed with financial wisdom. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every Spring in Pennsylvania, the outdoors becomes the place for a hands-on event made specially for women: Women in the Wild. The event is hosted by the Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources (DCNR) and invites women of all experience levels to explore new skills, boost their confidence in nature, and foster community with others who love the outdoors. Mindy Wilt, an Environmental Education Specialist with DCNR, joined The Spark’s Asia Tabb to share more about the event's origins, its purpose, and why it’s growing in popularity. 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. Braver Angels ran a local workshop this past November, just before the holidays. This workshop helps participants understand the different roles family members play in family conversations and what can be done to prevent family divisions over politics. also on the program... We’ll be focusing on the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, which is embarking on its ten-year historic preservation plan. We’ll also ask about the recent move by the PA State Archive into a new building, and have you ever wondered how to apply for a blue and gold historic marker? Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angela Couloumbis, Investigative reporter with Spotlight PA, appeared on The Spark to discuss her latest eye-opening report on elder abuse in Pennsylvania. Her work uncovered serious faps in how the state reviews deaths in elder care facilities – highlighting the lack of accountability, transparency, and follow-through in protecting some of our most vulnerable citizens. During this interview, Angela shared what she discovered, what the Shapiro administration is doing, and why this matters to every Pennsylvanian with a loved one in long-term care. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The organization Braver Angels joined us to share practical tools for navigating political conversations at the family dinner table without letting them divide us. In November, a local PA Braver Angels workshop helped participants understand the difference roles family members play in family conversations and what can be done to prevent family divisions over politics. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) is embarking on a ten-year historic preservation project. Andrea Lowery, Executive Director of PHMC, recently joined Asia Tabb on The Spark to discuss the commission’s ambitious goals for safeguarding the state’s rich history. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center (AHEC) in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, stands as the premier archive of the United States Army, offering an extensive collection of historical documents, artifacts, and research materials. Dr. Kate C. LeMay, President of the U.S. Army Heritage Center, recently sat down with The Spark host Asia Tabb to discuss the center’s invaluable role in preserving and educating the public about military history. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The vaping epidemic among teenagers is a huge problem across the nation. To combat this issue, Steelton-Highspire High School has launched the Catch My Breath Program. This initiative is designed to engage students in meaningful conversations about the risks of vaping while providing them with the tools to resist peer pressure. In a recent interview on The Spark, teachers Mark Wise and Kara Mancini shared their experiences with implementing the program and the impact it has had on their students. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When most people think of Shenks Ferry, they picture spring wildflowers, a beloved spot under the Lancaster Conservancy. But as Adam Zurn, Executive Director of Uncharted Lancaster, reveals, the area holds much more than just natural beauty—it is steeped in rich history, industrial remnants, and even a ghostly legend. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the best stories weren’t found on the highways, but on the back roads of America? And what if the real beauty of this country was tucked away in places you never think to look? Photographer David Skernick knows better than anyone. As the author of The Back Roads of Maine (coming March 28) and The Back Roads of the Mid-Atlantic States (coming April 28), his work captures the charm, solitude, and character of America’s lesser-known routes—including right here in Pennsylvania. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the evening of March 5, 1770, the streets of Boston erupted into violence in what would become one of the most pivotal moments leading up to the American Revolution. Known as the Boston Massacre, this deadly confrontation between British soldiers and colonial protestors galvanized anti-British sentiment and shaped the course of American history. But what led to this tragic night, and how was it perceived at the time? We spoke with Dr. Jacqueline Beatty, Associate Professor of History and Political Science at York College of Pennsylvania, to understand the broader context and lasting impact of the event. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A groundbreaking project is unfolding at McCaskey High School in Lancaster, where a group of students, under the guidance of social studies teacher Dr. Todd Mealy, is working to bring history to life through the Witness Stones Project. This initiative aims to honor and remember individuals who were once enslaved by unearthing their stories and ensuring they are not forgotten. The McCaskey students are focusing their research on four individuals—Bob, Sue, Frank, and Bet—who were enslaved by Revolutionary War figure Edward Hand. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway is a massive infrastructure project reshaping transportation in central Pennsylvania. With a price tag of approximately $970 million, the project will create a vital bypass along the Route 15 corridor in Snyder, Northumberland, and Columbia counties, while also featuring a new bridge over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Spanning over 11 miles, the new roadway aims to ease congestion, improve safety, and support regional economic growth. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.