The Spark

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That uncertainty became real last fall, when cases of Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) were confirmed in horses across Northumberland, Columbia, and Lancaster counties. With the virus spreading easily through direct contact, airborne droplets, and contaminated equipment, officials made the difficult call to cancel all equine‑related events at this year’s show. While EHM is serious, the Equine Disease Communication Center notes that 60–70% of affected horses recover with intensive veterinary care, offering hope amid concern.

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The 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show arrives with its signature mix of tradition, agriculture, and community pride, but also with unprecedented challenges. In this episode, we sit down with Bradford County Dairy Princess Sophia Tice, whose passion for dairy education and advocacy brings a fresh, youthful voice to the state’s largest agricultural event. Sophia shares her journey, her mission to connect consumers with farmers, and what it means to represent Pennsylvania’s dairy industry on such a big stage.

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We also speak with Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, who offers insight into the decisions, pressures, and priorities shaping this year’s Farm Show. From supporting producers to navigating public health concerns, Secretary Redding reflects on the resilience of Pennsylvania agriculture and the responsibility of leading through uncertainty.

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The Spark went on a field trip to the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show!

In this episode, you will hear the first half of interviews from our time at the farm show, with more to come tomorrow.

Featured in today's episode is:

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Dairymen's Executive Director Dave Smith

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Committee Member of The Mushroom Farmers of PA Gale Ferranto

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President of PA Alpaca Owners and Breeders' Association and Owner Crimson Skye Farm Karen Nace

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and Northwest Maple Association Member Laura Dengler

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In honor of Public Radio Broadcasting Day, this episode opens with a special “actors‑on‑actors” style conversation between Scott LaMar, former host of The Spark, and Asia Tabb, the show’s current host. In a rare dual‑interview format, Scott and Asia turn the microphones toward each other to explore their shared legacy, their different approaches to storytelling, the surprises of hosting live radio, and the moments that shaped their time behind the mic. It’s a warm, insightful exchange that celebrates the craft of public broadcasting and the people who keep its spirit alive.

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Then, we shift from the studio to the bridal boutique for a timely and eye‑opening conversation about how current tariffs are affecting the wedding dress industry. With insight from Taylor of Taylored for You Bridal Boutique and expertise from Unveiled Bridal and Formal, we break down what brides rarely see: rising material costs, designer challenges, supply‑chain pressures, and where tariffs show up in the final price of a gown. We explore how shops and designers are navigating these changes, whether absorbing costs, sharing them, or helping brides make informed decisions.

This episode brings together two very different worlds, public radio and bridal fashion. Revealing the passion, craftsmanship, and behind‑the‑scenes realities that shape both.

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In this episode, we begin with the inspiring journey of Kelly Anoka, a devoted maker whose woodworking story is rooted, quite literally, in family history. Kelly shares how a set of walnut trees planted by her great‑grandfather more than 80 years ago sparked her passion for transforming reclaimed Pennsylvania wood into meaningful, functional art. From foraging fallen branches to collaborating with clients on custom pieces, Kelly walks us through her process, and her love of learning.

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We then shift to a conversation with Stacie Blake, CEO of YWCA Lancaster, as we honor the life and legacy of Maureen Powers. A longtime director and unwavering advocate for women’s rights and racial equity, Maureen’s impact continues to shape the community she served with courage and conviction. Stacie reflects on Maureen’s leadership, her vision, and the profound mark she leaves behind.

This episode brings together stories of creation, purpose, and the enduring influence of those who shape our communities—whether through craft, advocacy, or a lifetime of service.

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This follow-up conversation explores how film helps us reflect on identity, technology, and the American experience, especially as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. It highlights a year-long America 250 film series and a four-week course on 1950s science fiction, using classic and contemporary movies to examine cultural ideals, fears, and evolving ideas of what it means to be human. The discussion emphasizes film’s power to spark accessible moral and civic conversations, the importance of independent cinemas in fostering dialogue, and why these themes remain especially relevant during moments of national reflection.

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Dry January is more than just a social media trend or New Year’s challenge—it’s a chance for people to reset their relationship with alcohol, and for some, it can reveal deeper issues that might otherwise go unaddressed. That’s the perspective shared by Zach Whipperman, director of community outreach at Arkview Behavioral Health, during a recent conversation about why so many people are drawn to the month-long pause from drinking.

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This episode brings together policy, protest, and personal purpose.

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WITF’s Jordan Wilkie joins us to discuss his reporting on a group of activist Mennonites calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and how their faith-driven activism also centers on supporting immigrants in the United States.

Emily Previti of the PA Capitol Star breaks down new Pennsylvania legislation aimed at cracking down on human trafficking, what’s in the bills, why they matter, and what comes next.

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We also sit down with Charlie “The Spaniard” Brenneman for a straightforward look at his unlikely path. From high school wrestler to Spanish teacher, Pros vs. Joes winner, UFC fighter, and now speaker, podcaster, and coach. He talks about chasing dreams, finding purpose beyond competition, and his personal mission to speak at every State Correctional Institution in Pennsylvania.

Three conversations, one episode. Focused on justice, conviction, and what drives people to act.

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Dr. Weiss is a retired Professor of Philosophy at York College of Pennsylvania and a longtime film scholar and educator. He brings a rare combination of philosophical insight, teaching experience, and public-facing film programming.

This follow-up conversation explores how film helps us reflect on identity, technology, and the American experience, especially as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. It highlights a year-long America 250 film series and a four-week course on 1950s science fiction, using classic and contemporary movies to examine cultural ideals, fears, and evolving ideas of what it means to be human. The discussion emphasizes film’s power to spark accessible moral and civic conversations, the importance of independent cinemas in fostering dialogue, and why these themes remain especially relevant during moments of national reflection.

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This episode highlights two institutions breaking the mold.

(00:00:00) Dickinson College expands its tuition-free initiative, opening doors for more students and redefining affordability in higher education.

(00:22:21) Meanwhile, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum marks National Bobblehead Day by unveiling a limited-edition Saturday Night Live bobblehead collection, celebrating creativity, nostalgia, and cultural history. From serious strides in educational access to lighthearted pop culture collectibles, we cover how innovation can take many forms.

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In this episode, we explore two powerful stories of legacy, leadership, and service.

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First, we honor the life and music of the late Kim Simmonds, legendary blues guitarist and founder of Savoy Brown, through his newly completed autobiography, Street Corner Talking, The Autobiography of Kim Simmonds: The Life and Music of the Founder and Guitarist of Savoy Brown. Before his passing in 2022, Simmonds spent years writing the story of his remarkable six-decade journey in blues-rock. from discovering the blues in post–World War II Wales to leading one of Britain’s most enduring bands and achieving lasting success in the United States with classic albums like Street Corner Talking and Hellbound Train.

Kim’s wife, Debbie Lyons Simmonds, joins the conversation to discuss how she carefully compiled his original writings so the book could be published exactly as he intended. As Debbie explains, “It’s all Kim’s words, I didn’t add, I didn’t delete, I didn’t change anything.” Music historian and author Robert Schaffner also joins us, sharing how he has been instrumental in helping promote the book and preserve Kim’s place in blues history. Together, they reflect on Savoy Brown, the early British blues movement, and the personal stories behind the music.

Street Corner Talking, The Autobiography of Kim Simmonds: The Life and Music of the Founder and Guitarist of Savoy Brown is available now for preorder, ahead of its January 28, 2026, release.

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In the second half of the episode, we shift to an important and timely discussion on healthcare and veteran employment. Daniel Perkins, founder and principal scientist of the Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, joins us to talk about a recent forum held in Harrisburg examining how states across the country are creating structured pathways for military medics to transition into civilian healthcare roles. These models may offer valuable insights for Pennsylvania as it looks to address healthcare workforce shortages while supporting veterans and their families.

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In this episode, we take a closer look at two important and timely topics centered on protection, prevention, and recovery.

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First, we explore human trafficking as a serious human rights abuse, breaking down what trafficking is, how force, fraud, and coercion are used to exploit victims, and why any minor who exchanges sex for something of value is legally considered a trafficking victim. We also discuss the reality that human trafficking is a crime prosecuted at both the federal and state levels, and why public awareness is critical to prevention and victim support.

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In the second half of the episode, we shift to Dry January and recovery-focused conversations. We discuss why so many people choose to participate in Dry January, the physical and mental benefits that motivate the challenge, and how it can serve as a turning point for individuals questioning their relationship with alcohol. We also examine practical tools that people in sober living or rehab settings can use during Dry January, as well as whether treatment centers tend to see an increase in admissions during the month of January.

Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/

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