The Spark

Shannon Schinagl, Early Literacy Librarian at Lancaster Public Library, shares how a vision for inclusive, multilingual programming has grown into a thriving community initiative. From launching American Sign Language Storytime for Deaf and hard-of-hearing families, to creating Spanish-language storytimes and playgroups, to debuting Arabic Storytime with strong community support, Shannon has helped build world language programming from the ground up.Becky Libourel Diamond, a food writer from Bucks County is returning to Midtown Scholar to discuss her latest book City Tavern: The Founding Table―Colonial Dining, Revolutionary History, and the Restaurant at the Center of It All. It views this important time in America’s early history through the lens of Philadelphia's iconic City Tavern.

With the recent passing of country music icon Dolly Parton at age 80, fans around the world are reflecting on a career that spanned more than six decades and touched countless lives through music, storytelling, humor, and philanthropy. Today we're joined by Karen Hester, star of Dolly: A Tribute to Dolly Parton at Totem Pole Playhouse, to discuss Dolly's enduring legacy and why her music continues to inspire audiences everywhereWe welcome Darla Bair (she/her), along with Lisa Fairman, a longtime singer with the Music For Everyone chorus, and Steve Chambers, whose original vision helped inspire the creation of the chorus years ago.Together, they share the story of Music For Everyone (MFE), a Lancaster County, Pennsylvania nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to music education and community music experiences. The conversation explores MFE’s mission to transform lives, schools, and communities through music by providing resources, opportunities, and support for learners and performers of all ages.

We welcome Michael Melillo, a Pennsylvania author whose book What the River Kept uncovers a deeply personal World War II story preserved through years of conversations with his grandfather, "Pop." What began as a family history became a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to and preserving firsthand accounts before they're lost to time.Also on the program: Join Amy Mintmier, Supervisor of Therapy Services at UPMC Carlisle, for a conversation about the vital role rehabilitation professionals play in helping people recover from severe illness and injury and regain independence in their daily lives. Amy shares insights into the rehabilitation process, the importance of mobility equipment, and why a wheelchair is much more than just a means of transportation. She also discusses UPMC Carlisle’s annual Wheelchair Wash and Repair event on September 25, a free community service that helps wheelchair users keep their equipment clean, safe, and functioning properly. Learn who can participate, what services are offered, and how maintaining a wheelchair can improve health, safety, and quality of life.

Rev. David Biser, author, historian, and first-person interpreter of John Harris Jr. As America marks its 250th anniversary, Biser brings to life the world of Harris' Ferry (Paxton) in 1776, exploring what everyday life was like in the growing frontier community that would become Pennsylvania's capital. From work, trade, currency, food, and leisure to Native relations, slavery, and the impact of the Revolutionary War, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the people and challenges that shaped early Harrisburg. With more than 15 years portraying John Harris Jr., Biser shares the stories, struggles, and legacy of one of the region's most influential founding figures.Erica Jo Shaffer brings us a timely conversation on Fall Horticulture Chores and how gardeners can prepare their landscapes for the changing seasons. From lawn care and planting to pruning, soil health, and garden cleanup, Erica shares expert advice on the essential tasks that help gardens thrive through autumn and set the stage for a successful spring. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just getting started, this episode offers practical tips to keep your yard healthy, productive, and beautiful all season long

What happens when community focused organizations come together to support young scholars beginning a new school year? In this episode, we hit the road to the Back-to-School Extravaganza which was hosted on Saturday, August 15 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. In the first half of the program we speak with Christy Renjilian, the Executive Director at Community Connections for Children and Kim Istvan, Community Impact Manager-Education at United Way of the Capital Region. Kim and Christy talk about the "why" behind the event that served approximately 1,500 children. In the second half of the program Dr. Sabina Grant-Spencer, Director of Early Childhood at Harrisburg School District and Stefanie McAuliffe, Vice President of Community Impact at The Foundation for Enhancing Communities explore the challenges facing young scholars and their families, and the support that exists in the region to help.

What does it take to run a humanitarian organization that serves millions of people around the world from right here in Pennsylvania?In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Landis Fickes, Director of Development and Communications at Mission Central, to explore the incredible work happening behind the scenes at one of the nation's leading humanitarian aid organizations. From disaster relief and medical equipment programs to volunteer engagement and global partnerships, Lisa shares how Mission Central mobilizes resources to respond to crises both near and far.We welcome Melissa from the Mid-Atlantic Reptile Expo, an event dedicated to supporting the reptile hobby through education, community engagement, and responsible animal care. Melissa shares how the expo brings together families, hobbyists, and reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels, featuring more than 100 tables of reptiles and opportunities to learn from experienced breeders and keepers. We discuss the importance of ethical breeding practices, responsible reptile ownership, and how building connections within the reptile community helps ensure a sustainable future for the hobby. Whether you're a longtime reptile enthusiast or simply curious about these fascinating animals, this conversation offers valuable insights into the mission and impact of the Mid-Atlantic Reptile Expo.

What began with opening a family home to wounded soldiers has grown into one of Pennsylvania's leading veteran support organizations. In this episode, Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors co-founder Helen Sajer reflects on two decades of helping veterans in crisis, inspired by gratitude for her son's military service. Joining her is Dennis Leonard, a combat veteran who lost both legs in Iraq and whose life was transformed through the nonprofit's support. Their stories offer a powerful look at compassion, recovery, and the enduring bonds of the veteran community.As Sandi’s Breads celebrates its 20th anniversary, founder and co-owner Sandi joins The Spark to share the story behind one of central Pennsylvania’s most distinctive bakeries. For two decades, Sandi’s Breads has milled whole grains fresh on-site for every loaf and pastry, long before artisan baking became a mainstream trend. Sandi discusses craftsmanship, traditional European baking techniques, the evolving appreciation for whole grains, and what it takes to build a values-driven business that serves both its customers and community.

What happens when a personal health concern sparks a thriving business? Katie and Eric Roering, founders of Lancaster, Pennsylvania-based Fontana Candle Company, set out to create non-toxic candles after traditional candles caused headaches. What began as a small operation in their home has grown into a nationwide manufacturing business with a 22-person team and customers across the country.WildHeart Ministries is making a lasting impact in Harrisburg's Allison Hill neighborhood through affordable housing, community development, and neighborhood revitalization. In this episode, we sit down with Tannon Herman, co-founder and executive director of WildHeart, to discuss the nonprofit's newly launched affordable housing project and its mission to rebuild, restore, and revive one of the city's most historic communities.

As summer wraps up in Pennsylvania, Asia Tabb sits down with Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary of Tourism Anne Ryan for a postmortem look at how the Commonwealth handled a busy summer filled with major events, festivals, and visitors. They discuss what went well, the challenges along the way, the economic and tourism impacts across the state, and what Pennsylvania learned from the experience. It's a chance to assess the results of the preparation efforts discussed earlier this year and explore what the season ultimately meant for Pennsylvania's communities, businesses, and tourism industry.Dauphin County Coroner Graham Hetrick is calling for stricter regulation, and potentially a statewide ban, on kratom, a widely available substance he says has been linked to deaths in central Pennsylvania. Sold in gas stations and convenience stores with few restrictions, kratom has sparked growing concern among public health and medical professionals. On this episode of The Spark, we examine what kratom is, why some people use it, the health risks associated with it, and the debate over regulation. Experts in addiction medicine, toxicology, and emergency care join the conversation to discuss the science, public safety concerns, and what Pennsylvanians should know about this controversial substance.

This episode features Rev. Jim Grossnickle-Batterton and Rebekah Priest, organizers of PeaceFest: Forging Peace & Cultivating Justice Together, a family-friendly community event taking place September 19, 2026, in Lititz, Pennsylvania. Representing local Church of the Brethren congregations, Jim and Rebekah share the vision behind PeaceFest and the importance of fostering peace, justice, and community engagement in today's world.Harrisburg Opera Association is launching its first complete season in more than 20 years, marking a major milestone in the organization's evolution toward a multidisciplinary arts festival serving Central Pennsylvania. Artistic and Executive Director Tami Swartz joins us to discuss the exciting 2026 season, which includes the free outdoor concert Opera in the Park: Battle of the Sexes featuring Broadway, television, and film star Rachel York, a new visual arts and therapeutic program, and the world premiere of The Velveteen Rabbit, a children's opera by composer Michael Gamon.

Step inside the Antique Marketplace of Lemoyne, the largest antique mall in Pennsylvania, and discover the stories behind one of Central PA's most unique destinations. Home to more than 275 vendors, the historic property has evolved from a 1913 bakery and horse stable to a thriving marketplace filled with antiques, collectibles, vintage treasures, and small businesses.Earlier this summer, we discussed how Pennsylvania was preparing for a packed season of major events, tourism, and travel. Now, we're closing the loop with a post-summer look back.Joining us is Anne Ryan, Pennsylvania's Deputy Secretary of Tourism, to discuss how the summer unfolded, the impact of high-profile events across the Commonwealth, and what the season meant for Pennsylvania's tourism industry, businesses, communities, and visitors. We'll explore what worked, the challenges that emerged, economic impacts, visitor trends, and the lessons learned as Pennsylvania looks ahead to future opportunities.

On The Spark, we spoke with Peter Kistler, editor of The War They Won, a remarkable book preserving the firsthand accounts of more than 200 World War II veterans. The project began with Peter’s brother, Hobart Kistler, who spent 17 years interviewing veterans after starting the effort while still in high school. Following Hobart’s untimely death, Peter completed the manuscript, ensuring those stories would reach future generations. With fewer than 0.5% of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II still alive, the book serves as a lasting record of their experiences.Move Past Plastic will be recognizing local South Central PA Community Activists: Scott Bucher, who took the lead on reuse initiatives, spoke with educators, local leaders, businesses, organizations, and educational outreach creations and events. Danel Berman, for her artistic and creative talents and spur-of-the-moment availability to assist in every facet of educational outreach, digital and physical creations, and advocacy work. Her ability and willingness not only to learn about an issue on the spot but also to be brave enough to share it publicly, even in front of the press. Julia Schulz, who led efforts to implement concrete actions to reduce single-use plastic in her church, workplace, and community, also helped with educational outreach. She created an inspirational garment that represents the issues with fast fashion.

We welcome Marvin D. Bryson, author, screenwriter, former television editor, and caregiver advocate, to discuss his latest novel, August Heat. Set in the early 1980s, August Heat is a compelling coming-of-age story that explores how the game of football shapes the lives, character, and resilience of young men. Rather than focusing on superstar athletes or championship glory, Bryson turns his attention to the millions of players who never make it to the professional level, revealing the personal victories, struggles, and life lessons that emerge far beyond the scoreboard.During our conversation, Marvin shares the inspiration behind August Heat, lessons from a career spanning television and publishing, insights into family caregiving, and his perspective on how the entertainment industry has evolved over the past two decades.Also, on the program we speak with Sky Elements Drone Shows, one of the industry leaders in aerial drone entertainment and holder of 17 Guinness World Records, to explore the future of public celebrations. We discuss the advantages and drawbacks of traditional fireworks, including environmental concerns, impacts on pets and wildlife, PTSD triggers, fire dangers during droughts and burn bans, safety risks, legal restrictions, and rising costs. We also examine how drone shows offer an alternative, with lower noise levels, reusable technology, and the ability to operate in conditions where fireworks may be restricted.