This broadcast is a celebration and commemoration of the illustrious career of Scott LaMar, a broadcasting legend with over 40 years in the industry. In his final broadcast on WITF, Scott reflects on his journey into media, sharing the reasons behind his career choice and revisiting some of his favorite interviews and moments from shows like The Sp…

From Scott LaMar: After 32 years at WITF I’m retiring at the end of this week. On the Spark, we're broadcasting several of my most memorable conversation. On November 19th, 2013 Scott went to Gettysburg to speak with some special guests about the 150th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See o…

From Scott LaMar: After 32 years at WITF I’m retiring at the end of this week. On the Spark, we're broadcasting several of my most memorable conversation. Wednesday, we went back to June of 2014 When Federal Judge John Jones appeared on the program. In May of 2014, Judge Jones struck down Pennsylvania’s defense of marriage law as unconstitutional. …

From Scott LaMar, co-host of The Spark. After 32 years at WITF I’m retiring at the end of this week. On The Spark Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, we’re airing several of my most memorable conversation. Tuesday, we go back to September of 2019 when Sue Klebold appeared on the program. On April 20, 1999, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold walked into Col…

Coming up on this week's program, A new report shows just how dire Pennsylvania's teacher shortage is. Also, the role of bail in criminal cases. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

Denzel Brown, a native of Lancaster and a graduate of McCaskey High School, has carved a path of academic and professional achievement that underscores his commitment to economic empowerment. Brown furthered his education at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) and Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. His career trajectory includes significan…

Shelby Witmer, a seasoned family and child services worker with over 25 years of experience in education, recently addressed the critical issue of how poor mental health contributes to the school-to-prison pipeline. Witmer emphasized the need for new systems to support vulnerable and misunderstood children. With a strong focus on mental health advo…

The immensely talented spoken word artist Thunda Khatt recently stopped by to share insights into her creative world and discuss her latest endeavor, THUNDA N MIMOSAS 'Men Have Feelings Too.' This dynamic and captivating poetry showcase is set to take place at the renowned Zoetropolis Theatre in Lancaster, promising to be a highlight of the local a…

Horticulturalist Erica Jo Shaffer was on The Spark Thursday at the height of the growing season with gardening tips. May can be the best late spring month but there’s a lot of do to keep the plants, flowers, trees and garden healthy and thriving. We’ve had a lot of rain this month so how does it affect the garden, what fertilizers are the most effe…

As Juneteenth approaches, YPOC (Young Professionals of Color) is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration that promises to empower Black and Brown professionals and communities. The Juneteenth HBG event is a vibrant extension of YPOC's mission to create lasting change by focusing on emancipatory advancement and reinvesting economic resources bac…

Pennsylvania has a shortage of teachers. More than 2,100 teaching positions were vacant in the state as of October, according to newly released state data — and almost a quarter of those spots were filled not with full-time teachers, but with long-term substitutes. Some who produced the report called it a crisis. Dr. Edward Fuller, a Professor of E…

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, but quite frankly more Americans are aware of their mental health – especially since the COVID pandemic. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one in five American adults has experienced a mental health challenge, and one in 20 Americans live with a serious mental illness such as schizo…

A recent study by the ACLU of Pennsylvania has unveiled significant racial disparities in the assignment of cash bail among accused individuals. The research highlights that 55% of Black defendants are assigned cash bail, compared to only 39% of white defendants. Additionally, Black defendants face higher bail amounts, with their average bail set n…

The story of Robinson Crusoe, published in 1719, is the most famous tale of a castaway. But Daniel Dafoe’s Robinson Crusoe was a work of fiction. Best-selling author Eric Jay Dolin’s new book recounts the true story of five castaways in the Falkland Islands during the War of 1812. It’s called Left for Dead – Shipwreck, Treachery and Survival at the…

Coming up on this week's edition of The Spark Weekly, The number of people who are food insecure is increasing and Penn State Health has a program to help. Also on the program, mental health professionals will join us to discuss advances in mental health services. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for …

National Prevention Week, observed from May 12-18, 2024, serves as a vital public education platform dedicated to preventing substance use and promoting positive mental health. This annual event engages communities across the country in raising awareness about substance misuse and mental health issues, showcasing the effectiveness of evidence-based…

Fresh from competing in the 2024 Senior Games at Spooky Nook Sports Complex, Sally Winchell and her group of Iron Mustangs returned home with a collection of well-deserved hardware. The team, composed of women aged 55 and older, made a significant impact not only through their victories but also by inspiring their fellow competitors with their dedi…

In 2010, Humankind founder TJ Foltz experienced a profound calling to address the global need for clean drinking water. This mission was sparked by an overseas trip where he witnessed children forced to drink unclean water due to a lack of resources. Since then, TJ has dedicated his life to providing hope and clean drinking water to those in need. …

Ever hear that a woman has been described as glowing when she is pregnant? It is a time when most women are happy and excited when they’re expecting or even after they just delivered. But for some women, it’s a struggle because they don’t have access to good prenatal care or nutritious food when they’re pregnant. They’re two of the most important c…

May 16th, marks Mental Health Action Day, a significant initiative aimed at shifting the focus of mental health culture from mere awareness to concrete action. This day serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing mental health crisis and the need for proactive steps to address it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more…

Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, along with the federal government entered into an agreement in 1983 to clean up the Chesapeake Bay. The states of Delaware, New York and West Virginia joined the partnership years later. During the past 41 years, strategies and plans have been implemented to reduce pollution and restore…

UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, has been honored for its outstanding efforts in supporting Black maternal health by U.S. News & World Report. Notably, it is the sole hospital in Pennsylvania to receive this prestigious recognition, underscoring its commitment to health equity and positive birthing experiences for vulnerable populations, particularly pr…

Some 1.7 million Pennsylvania are food insecure. Many areas of the state are considered food deserts – meaning grocery stores aren’t close by or there isn’t access to healthy food. This is an issue we’ve talked about many times over the years on The Spark, because it continues to exist and if anything, the problem has gotten worse between the COVID…

When motorists stop to buy gasoline for their vehicles, it’s almost always at a business that doubles as a convenience store, whose main sales priority is often their food menus. And the driver is almost always pumping their own gas. It didn’t used to be that way. Service stations were just that – the place to go to have an attendant pump gas, chec…

Jennifer Hassel's captivating memoir, "Bad Ass Grief," recounts her remarkable odyssey of honoring her late husband's memory through audacious feats and profound self-discovery. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

A major milestone in the clean-up of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is scheduled for Monday afternoon after being postponed over the weekend. Explosives will be used to clear eight to 12 million pounds of the collapsed bridge from the front of the container ship, Dali. To get an update on the story, The Spark turned to Robert Lang, an aw…

Coming up on this week's edition of The Spark Weekly, New York Times best-selling novelist Jeff Shaara talks about his new book against the backdrop of the Cuban Missile Crisis, The Shadow of War. Also, on the program jazz musician Champian Fulton discusses her career and upcoming tour and album. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/…

In a unique collaboration celebrating history, community, and the spirit of resilience, Spring House Brewing Company has crafted "Saucy Boy," a refreshing blend of pale lager and grapefruit soda. But this beer is more than just a beverage; it's a tribute to the enduring legacy of Crispus Attucks, an emblematic figure in America's fight for freedom.…

On June 1st, a moving portrayal will grace the stage—a heartfelt depiction of Hazel Jackson's life, a woman whose resilience and dedication left an unforgettable impact on her community. This play, honoring Jackson's memory, marks the foundation stone of the newly formed Hazel Jackson Foundation, with proceeds supporting its mission of empowerment …

The vibrant cultural scene of Downtown Harrisburg is set to be enriched as the curtains rise for the acclaimed play "What the Constitution Means to Me" starting Saturday, and continuing its run until June 1st at the Open Stage. This Tony-nominated and Pulitzer Prize finalist production promises to captivate audiences with its witty, timely, and dee…

Public interest in intergenerational (IG) programs and practices are growing, spurred by the recognition that the synergy between younger and older generations can address mutual needs and aspirations. Research underscores the manifold benefits of IG programs, with participants of all ages experiencing diminished susceptibility to age-based stereot…

The Cuban Missile Crisis in October, 1962 may have been the closest the world has come to a nuclear war. The Soviet Union placed nuclear missiles in Cuba – just 90 miles of the coast of Florida. President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premiere Nikita Khrushchev stared one another down as the U.S. demanded the missiles be removed. New York Times best-s…

As the curtains draw close on the fantastical production of "Seussical" at Theatre Harrisburg, audiences are left enchanted by the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss characters brought to life on stage. Since its opening on April 26th, the musical has captivated hearts and minds with its tale of friendship, loyalty, and community. In an exclusive intervi…

There are about 200 million working animals around the world. Here in Pennsylvania, we’re most familiar with farm horses, search and rescue dogs, dogs used by law enforcement and therapy animals. The Pennsylvania State Working Animal Foundation has plans to honor these animals with a granite memorial wall in Mechanicsburg on June 1. On The Spark We…

In the heart of Oklahoma's jazz culture, a prodigious talent emerged, shaped by the rich harmonies of the genre and guided by the influence of legendary musicians. Champian Fulton, hailed as one of jazz's top talents, traces her musical journey back to her upbringing in Oklahoma, where the rhythms of jazz infused her childhood. Inspired by her fath…

About 20% of all people who consume alcohol develop an unhealthy use, accounting for over 5% of worldwide deaths. Bucknell University psychology and neuroscience professor Judy Grisel was among those who developed an unhealthy relationship with substances. Dr. Grisel began her recovery from addiction 30 years ago. Since then, she has studied substa…

In the realm of criminal justice, Pennsylvania stands as a stage where the specter of wrongful convictions casts a long and haunting shadow. Recent research by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) sheds light on the staggering prevalence of wrongful accusations within the state, illuminating the urgent need for systemic reforms. According to t…

On this week's edition of The Spark Weekly. A White woman Pheobe Kilby contacted Betty Kilby Baldwin, a Black woman. sawing she suspected they are connected through slavery. That started a conversation and led to a book called Cousins. They both join us for The Spark Weekly, Also on the program, Dr. Dhiman Chattopadhyay is a professor at Shippensbu…

In the emotionally gripping film "Cold," viewers are plunged into the haunting tale of Carmen, a woman thrust into a perplexing ordeal with high stakes and harrowing consequences. Co-produced and directed by Greg Poppa and Sugey Cruz and brought to life by her compelling portrayal of Carmen, the narrative unfolds as Carmen awakens in an unfamiliar …

Men Raising Black Boys (MR. BB) is set to make waves with its inaugural conference, slated for May 18th, 2024, at Harrisburg University. This pioneering event aims to embolden men engaged in the nurturing and guidance of Black boys, igniting vital discussions and furnishing invaluable resources for community enrichment. The conference showcases an …

In the bustling city of Kolkata, nestled amidst a population of 14 million, Dr. Dhiman Chattopadhyay's journey from the world of journalism to academia, reads like a gripping novel. Eschewing the family tradition of teaching, Dr. Chattopadhyay carved his path, propelled by a passion for storytelling and a fervent desire to illuminate the world thro…

Erik Larson is perhaps America’s preeminent non-fiction history writer. His best-selling books stand out for their storytelling narratives, but also their attention to detail, especially when it comes to what the historical characters in his books actually said or wrote. There’s no speculation – Larson only quotes what is verified. Larson’s newest …

In Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Tec Centro, a division of SACA, stands as a beacon of bilingual education and vocational training, addressing the pressing need for skilled workers in the region. Annually, Tec Centro's state-of-the-art workforce programs reaches over 1,200 individuals, offering vital education and skills training to those grappling with…

American’s 250th birthday or Semiquincentennial will be in two years. Plans are already being made for celebrations around the country. The State Museum in Harrisburg has gotten a head start with an exhibit called Pennsylvania in Watercolor by artist Nick Ruggieri. Ruggieri's project involved visiting all 67 counties to paint a representative scene…

Imagine a dream job that entails traveling around Pennsylvania -- eating ice cream – and getting paid for it. It will become a reality for someone. The American Dairy Association North East is looking to identify their first ever honorary "Chief Ice Cream Officer" to visit creameries and dairy farms throughout Pennsylvania in July – National Ice Cr…

As the school year winds down, parents and guardians across the Midstate are in the midst of a frenzy, scrambling to secure spots for their kids in summer camps and activities. In an effort to ease the stress of summer activity sign-ups, The Spark (our beloved community forum) is here to offer a helping hand. Today, we were thrilled to welcome Jenn…

Horticulturalist Eric Jo Shaffer was on The Spark Tuesday and talked about container gardens for those who decide to grow their plants or flowers in containers, Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

Vicki and Mike Deitzler, motivated by their late son Evan's passion for film, spearheaded the establishment of the Mount Gretna International Film Festival (MtGIFF). They approached Kerry Royer, Director of the Mt. Gretna Art Show, to initiate this endeavor, aiming to complement the renowned art show and aligning with Lebanon County's designation o…

A White woman Pheobe Kilby contacted Betty Kilby Baldwin – a Black woman – saying she suspected they are connected through slavery. That started a conversation and led to a book called Cousins. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By WITF, Inc.

The Fulton Theatre's decision to dissolve its IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) committee has sparked discontent among some of its members. Kareena Rios, a former committee member, shared her insights on the matter during an interview on The Spark. Rios expressed disappointment, suggesting that the committee, tasked with addres…