The Spark

WITF, Inc.
  • 4.5 (32)
  • NEWS
  • UPDATED DAILY

When people come together and talk about really interesting topics, great questions spark better understanding and opportunities for new ideas to form. On The Spark from WITF, host Asia Tabb starts conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.

  1. 19H AGO

    The Spark Weekly | April 5 | Wildfires and Hemp Fiber

    As wildfire season ramps up across the state, The Spark spoke with Mike Kern, Chief of the Division of Forest Fire Protection, and Matt Reed, Chief of Wildfire Operations and Planning with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, about what residents need to know. They explained that most wildfires in Pennsylvania are human-caused—often the result of debris burning, unattended campfires, or discarded cigarettes—making prevention a critical part of safety. With dry conditions and shifting winds increasing fire risk, they emphasized the importance of following local burn bans, properly extinguishing fires, and staying aware of changing weather conditions. Kern and Reed also highlighted how their teams prepare year-round to respond quickly and protect both people and natural resources, urging Pennsylvanians to stay informed and take simple precautions to help reduce wildfire risk. On a recent episode of The Spark, we discussed the future of hemp fiber in Pennsylvania with Gabriella Fioravanti of Thomas Jefferson University and Mike Roth of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The conversation focused on how hemp fiber can be used in products like textiles and building materials, the environmental benefits it offers, and the challenges—like processing infrastructure—that are shaping the industry’s growth in the state. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min

  2. 2D AGO

    From Generational Market Leadership to Industrial Innovation: How the West Shore Farmers Market and Pennsylvania’s Hemp Revival Reflect a Growing Sustainable Future

    (00:00:00) Greg Katshir is part of the third generation of family leadership at the West Shore Farmers Market in Lemoyne, Pennsylvania. After the market’s founder, Ray Garver Sr., passed away in 1959, and later his son Ray Garver Jr. took over, the family tradition continued when Tracy (Garver) Katshir joined the business in 1990. Today, the Market is managed jointly by Tracy and her husband, Greg Katshir. (00:23:06) Pennsylvania has been actively rebuilding its industrial hemp sector—especially fiber hemp—thanks to strong agricultural roots, state support, and increasing demand for sustainable materials. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min

  3. 3D AGO

    Match Madness & Women in the Judiciary: Championing Community Health and Judicial Leadership in PA

    (00:00:00) We’re joined by Carol Thornton, Executive Director of the Partnership for Better Health, along with leaders from two participating nonprofits: Ericka Anderson, Landisburg EMS Jeanna Som, Supportive Partnerships for Youth Together, they break down Match Madness, a unique annual fundraising campaign now celebrating its 10th year. Modeled after the excitement of March Madness, this initiative brings together 64 local nonprofits—all committed to advancing health equity and serving communities throughout the region. Since 2016, Match Madness has raised more than $6.1 million to support small and mid‑sized organizations making a direct impact. (00:22:31) In recognition of National Women’s History Month, we also feature Judge Lori A. Dumas, Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court Judge (term 2022–2031). Judge Dumas reflects on her extensive career—from her decades on the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas to her role as a nationally recognized trainer on human trafficking issues. We explore the broader landscape of women in the Pennsylvania judiciary, where women now make up 34% of active judges statewide. Women hold major leadership roles across Pennsylvania’s appellate courts, including the historic appointment of Chief Justice Debra Todd, the first woman to lead the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Judge Dumas brings firsthand insight into this progress, the importance of representation, and the ongoing evolution of the judiciary. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    44 min

  4. 4D AGO

    Honoring Kevlar’s Creator and Preparing for Wildfire Season: A Deep Dive into Innovation and Safety

    (00:00:00) Stephanie Kwolek (July 31, 1923 – June 18, 2014), born in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was an American chemist whose groundbreaking work in polymer science led to the invention of Kevlar — the exceptionally strong, lightweight fiber widely used in bullet‑resistant vests. (00:22:09) Then we speak with Mike Kern: Chief, Division of Forest Fire Protection and Matt Reed: Chief of Wildfire Operations and Planning both with Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry about wildfire season and safety protocols we should follow. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min

  5. 5D AGO

    From Rising Facility Fees to Women’s Health and the Arts: This Week’s Stories from Central PA

    (00:00:00) Syndey Roaches new feature series digging into a rising problem in the State College area: facility fees. They’re extra charges meant for hospital costs… but more and more patients are getting them at non‑hospital offices — with no warning. Sometimes adding hundreds of dollars to a bill. We’ll also look at the growing national debate around these fees, and what Pennsylvania lawmakers are doing as hospitals continue to consolidate. One local lawmaker shared a case where a patient was told to expect an eighteen‑hundred‑dollar bill… and instead was charged more than three‑thousand.  (0:34:26) March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and we’re raising awareness in the media about endometriosis  (0:22:32) Pennsylvania Regional Ballet (PRB) is a nonprofit pre-professional training school committed to providing high-quality dance education, performance opportunities, and artistic development for dancers of all ages. We offer a full range of classes — from creative movement and beginner ballet to pointe, modern, jazz, and our intensive pre-professional track — all designed to nurture strong technique, confidence, and creativity. The Spring Gala is one of the signature performances on our annual calendar, giving dancers a chance to shine onstage while bringing our community together to celebrate the art of dance. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min

  6. MAR 28

    The Spark Weekly | March 29 | Keystone Markers and Fred Rogers

    Across Pennsylvania, drivers pass them every day without a second thought. The blue and gold roadside signs shaped like a keystone are part of the state’s identity, but many people do not realize they carry nearly a century of history. Public broadcasting and the legacy of Fred Rogers continue to shape generations, according to educator and broadcaster Ed Arke, who recently reflected on the children’s television icon during an interview. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min

  7. MAR 27

    Igniting PA Baseball with the Fightin Phils, Stormers, Revolution & Senators

    In this special episode of The Spark, we’re bringing together the heartbeat of Central Pennsylvania baseball. Join us as we dive into updates, standout players, community stories, and behind‑the‑scenes moments from the Reading Fightin Phils, Lancaster Stormers, York Revolution, and Harrisburg Senators. From early‑season momentum to offseason shifts, fan traditions, and what’s ahead for each club, this episode delivers a full look at the region’s most iconic baseball teams — all in one place. Whether you’re a loyal fan of one team or follow the entire PA baseball landscape, this episode gives you the insight and energy that make The Spark your go‑to source for local sports storytelling. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    46 min

  8. MAR 26

    Honoring Enslaved Lives in Lancaster & Preserving Ancient Falconry Traditions: Education, History, and Stewardship in Focus

    (00:00:00) The second year of the Witness Stones Project is underway, with students researching enslaved individuals connected to prominent Lancaster figures, including some tied to Franklin & Marshall College. They are preparing to place new Witness Stones honoring these individuals and would like to know if you’re interested in speaking with students about their work.  (00:22:30) Falconry is an ancient hunting practice dating back around 4,000 years in Central Asia, originally used to put food on the table. It remains highly regulated and is practiced worldwide today. Jack Hubley grew up fascinated with wildlife and spent his life educating others and practicing falconry.  Jeff Aucker was introduced as a middle‑schooler by a neighbor and became hooked, eventually working his way through the formal falconry ranks. Falconry persists because devoted practitioners serve as stewards of raptors and the natural world, preserving a highly specialized craft that teaches responsibility, conservation, and respect for wildlife. Aucker stresses the need for proper stewardship, realistic expectations, and mentorship to keep falconry healthy and ethical.   Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min
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4.5
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

When people come together and talk about really interesting topics, great questions spark better understanding and opportunities for new ideas to form. On The Spark from WITF, host Asia Tabb starts conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.

Information

  • Creator
    WITF, Inc.
  • Years Active
    2009 - 2026
  • Episodes
    114
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 WITF
  • Show Website
    The Spark

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